Red Rover- This is for Lord Archive's contest on the Digiartist's Domain. I originally wasn't planning on entering.

Gomamon- Cause you thought you'd lose.

Red Rover- The rules of the contest said there had to be one human main character (like Cody or Mimi) and one human tertiary character (Like Noriko or Alice.) involved in a love story.

Gomamon- Which I didn't like because it meant I couldn't star in the lemon, or get laid.

Red Rover- Now I didn't think I could do anything with that, but then I went to bed and started thinking to myself. Who would I use if I entered? The Dark Spore children? That had a lot of potential. And what if one of them did fall for Cody? Then the story kind of wrote itself.

Gomamon- And I must admit, it turned on great.

Red Rover- Because you get to play doctor with a Floramon.

Gomamon - Which reminds me, I need to give a check up to Gatomon right away, so we best get started.

Red Rover- Anyway I present Red Rover's third mega lemon

The subway slowly rolled to a stop. School had just been let out some time ago, but many students had stayed after school for sports, friends, and other reasons. The cabs were back with children, boys and girls of various ages, chatting, laughing, joking, and talking. Except one. A girl with short brown hair of about fifteen sat in the furthest corner of the end subway, nearly hidden in the shadows. One might say she was pretty, if she didn't have such a lost look on her face. The other children didn't notice her as she stood up, her destination finally reached. Which was good. Usually when they did notice her, it was to tease or whisper. She hated the whispers the most. Freak. Loner. She caught these words as she walked down the halls of her school. It didn't upset her that the children called her these names behind her back, or even to her face. What upset her was, she knew they where right. The rumours spread about her were properly kinder than the truth.

Noriko took a breath as she looked up at her door. She had walked the last block looking straight down. She rarely made eye contact with anyone. She found it helped people to avoid her. Noriko opened the door. She looked around, not hearing her parents. Most likely both still at work. (Even they don't want to be around me. Not that I blame them...) Noriko sighed as she dropped her book bag and light jacket on the ground, not even bothering to hang them up. She just wanted to go to her room and rest. She felt so tired. But was afraid to sleep. Because... Noriko entered her room, the door already ajar.

"Noriko?" A dinosaur rookie digimon sat on the bed, with skin as white as freshly fallen snow. She looked similar to Agumon yet she was slightly taller, and her nose was smaller and narrower. She also had a slimmer build, and spoke with a soft and gentle voice. She had a nail file, and look like she was in the process of sharpening her blue tinged talons. "How was school today?"

Noriko shut the shades to the room, cutting off the sunlight. "Nothing happened." Noriko slumped on the bed, Snowagumon scooting over to make room.

"You say that every day." Snowagumon replied. "Don't they do anything at the school? A dance perhaps?"

"Heh." Noriko laid on her side, facing away from Snowagumon. "Like any boy would ant to dance with me. Noriko, the Dark Spore freak child."

"You should at least try. I mean, there must be one boy who is desperate enough for a date." Snowagumon climbed over Noriko, so she could look at the young girl.

Noriko just huffed and turned over on her other side. "Yeah right. Even the biggest loser boy can do better than me."

Snowagumon took a deep breath and exhaled. Little crystal of ice form when she breathed, forming slight tendrils of ice frost from her nostrils. "Well, are you at least doing better in your marks?"

This got another laugh from Noriko. "Yeah right. It's been only a month of classes, and they are all ready talking about holding me back. I barely made it to this grade struggling through summer school, even with your help."

"Noriko, even you should be doing better." Snowagumon looked at the back of Noriko's head.

"Snowagumon, I know you are trying to help, but I really want to sleep. I haven't been sleeping well." Noriko moved her head to the pillow.

"Do you want me to sleep in your room tonight? In case..." Snowagumon started. She slept by herself, though lately she had been wanting to be with Noriko. At least since Noriko had gotten worse.

Noriko thought about this for a second. "No, you'll just be down the hall. It's not like you can stop me from dreaming."

Snowagumon sighed as she dropped of the bed. "I guess you are right." Snowagumon went to the door, and jumped up to turn on the light switch. The house was not really built for two foot high digimon. The room became a shade darker as the light died away. "Sweet dreams." Snowagumon whispered as she slowly shut the door.

"Yeah right..." Noriko sighed as she closed her eyes.

*****************************************************

"Noriko...." Noriko was in the dark, completely naked, though for some reason, her nudeness did not concern her in the least. But the frigid cold was eating at her like insects. She shivered, but the voice called again. "Noriko...."

"Who... who's there?" Noriko called out, keeping her hands close to her chest to vainly keep warm. She however, was not sure she wanted to know the answer.

"Noriko..." Red eyes stared at the girl through the darkness. "It's time..."

"No!" Noriko backed up, though she knew there was no place to run.

"You are damned child." A large shadowy figure slowly moved out into view. "You were damned the instant you accept the dark spore."

"I... I..." Noriko's neck felt hot, the Dark Spore burning her as it lay buried in her neck.

"Now give in." The figure came in to view. Impossibly larger with grey body and a red mask. Malomyotismon sneered as he looked down at the young child. "Accept death as your escape." Malomyotismon held up something in his left hand. A sack of flesh, skin but no bones. Noriko recognized in horror it was the lifeless husk of Oikawa. "Oikawa did." Malomyotismon reached out with is free hand. "Now it is time for you to join him!"

*******************************************

"Gasp!" Noriko awoke in a start, her body drenched in ice cold sweat. She could still see Malomyotismon there, holding the hollowed skin of Obidawa, the massive mega digimon laughing at her. Obidawa seemed to be looking at Noriko, with the lifeless eyes, asking, pleading, why she let him die... Noriko shivered at the dream memory. Her dreams, or more accurately nightmares, where getting worse. Noriko sat up on the bed and placed her feet on the ground. (I need a drink of water...) She told herself. This was a lie, she simply could not get back to sleep. "Huh huh hu...." Noriko panted as she slid off her bed. Shivering. (So cold...) Noriko hugged her self tightly Her bare feet slid on to the carpet. Noriko walked over to the washroom, which was right across from her bedroom. Noriko went over to the bathroom, not even turning on the light to the bedroom. She knew the way well enough. Too many sleepless nights. Too many nightmares. Noriko turned on the water to the sink, so hot it almost scalded to the touch. Noriko placed her hands in the water, to lose the apparent numbness. (What is wrong... the other Dark Spore children have recovered. But me... why can't I be happy?!) Noriko looked at her hands, and suddenly, saw a spark of dark energy shoot from the index finger of one hand, to the pink skin of her other hand. (NO! Not again!) Noriko looked at her hands, feeling the energy burn in her veins like red-hot magma. Noriko concentrated hard, forcing the feeling down. (Calm down... don't let it take over...) Noriko looked up at the mirror. And froze. Her face was covered with black lettering.

Noriko's breath left her as she stumbled back, out of the bathroom, away from the writing in the mirror. She tried to call out, but her breath left her. She suddenly fell back, tripping over the carpet in her room. The fall seemed to awaken her voice as she screamed. "SNOWAGUMON!"

Snowagumon awoke from her bed under the air conditioner. "NORIKO!" Snowagumon came running in to the room, finding Noriko sprawled on the ground. On her face she could see the black lettering on her skin. "Noriko..." Snowagumon stopped as Noriko leapt forward, wrapping her arms around Snowagumon and crying.

"Noriko!" Noirko's dad came running in to the room, not called but rushing to his aid. He reached to the side of the door automatically, and flipped on the light switch, causing the room to burst into light.

Noriko eyes took a second to adjust to the change in brightness. She looked up, her entire body shaking now. Every square inch of her room was covered in black writing.

On the walls.

On the ceiling.

On the floor.

On Noriko's own smooth face.

***********************************************************

Cody walked on to the wooden floor. He had been on this floor numerous times, usually dressed in full armour. Right now, he only wore a light gi. The protection armour gave would not be necessary. Cody knelt down with his hands on his thighs in the seiza position, the wooden bokken on his left side. Cody slowly bowed, his hands making a diamond shape in the front. Cody held the position for a moment, and then slowly sat up, picking up the bokken and grasping it firmly in both hands. He slowly stood up, raising the tip of the bokken at an imaginary opponent. Cody held the position for a second, his breathing coming in regular deep motions. Then Cody exploded. His gi cracked every time he swung the sword, moving with grace and power as he floated across the floor. Cody's breathing became more laboured as he moved faster in the kata; sweat dripping down his forehead. "KI-YI!" Cody screamed as he made one last final killing blow, holding his position for a second. Then Cody slowly returned to the ready position, bowing to his fictional opponent. Cody wiped his brow, placing the wooden bokken on the stand, before heading to the kitchen.

"How are you doing Cody?" Cody's mother asked as she saw her son come out of the sparring room. Being a single mother with an only child, they had enough room for Cody's practice dojo.

"... I'm ok." Cody wiped his brow. "Still... it's not the same."

"I know what you mean." Cody's mother took a deep breath. "I miss him to." Cody wiped his brow. "Yeah... I used to find Kendo relaxing, but now... It just serves to remind me of grandpa."

"And is that so bad?" Another voice said from the doorway. "The best way to honour someone is to simply remember them."

Cody turned to the door smiling as his mother nodded. "We have a visitor." Cody's mother pointed to the door of the apartment.

"Hey Cody." Ken stood at the door, wearing a grey trench coat. "I thought I'd wait till you finished up in there. Didn't want to get in the way of one of the lunges and have a bruise on my cheek for the next week."

"Ken!" Cody went over to this old friend, grabbing his hand. "How is collage life?"

"Just started. But criminology is fun." Ken replied, shaking Cody's hand back. "Uh listen Cody, ummm I'm sorry about your grandpa..."

Cody bowed his head slightly. "Thanks Ken. I miss him terribly, but at least he didn't suffer." Cody brought his head up, and changed the subject. "So what brings you around to my neck of the woods?" Cody let go of Ken's hand. One of the things Cody most regretted about getting older was that he no longer saw his old friends, the digidestined as much. Tai was acting as a tour guide for some high-ranking official as they toured the Digital World. Kari was with him, seeing that she could actually open digital gates. Izzy had been recruited to the states to help find away to stabilize digital gates for the common man. Apparently he and Mimi were dating. Davis had graduated and started his first noodle cart in Tokyo no less. TK was in the Digital World as well, in File Island, writing his very first book. Apparently TK needed to be there to help him with the details. Matt was on a farewell tour with his band, along with Sora. The band had become rather popular after Matt helped save the world, but Matt had decided it was time for something else. In a way, Cody wished that it were like the old days. Fighting against Arukenimon, Daemon, Malomyotismon.... Cody felt a twinge of shame remembering the death of Blackwargreymon and Obidawa.

Ken placed his hand on his chin. "Actually, if your mother will let me steal you, I'd like you to come with me." Ken looked over at Cody's mother, cleaning the kitchen.

"Only if you promise that this isn't another save the world thing." Cody's mother mocked jokingly.

Ken took his hand off his chin and placed it on his chest. "I promise, no super strong digimon, other world fiends, or wayward missile strikes."

Cody's mother shook her head. "And when I was growing up, my biggest worry was what to wear to school."

"Well if you like, I am sure we can find a natural disaster to fight, if you like to join us." Ken smiled at Cody's mother.

"I'll pass. But you boys have fun." Cody's mom waved as the pair left out the front door. Cody' mother never worried about Cody going out like this. He had Armadillomon, who could transform into a huge protector. What better chaperone could a mother ask for?

***********************************************

"Good ta see you again Wormmon." Armadillomon went down to Ken's car when Ken came upstairs to chat with Wormmon. Cody would most likely be down in a moment

"Nice to see you to Armadillomon." Wormmon bowed slightly, holding the chocolate bar the two split.

"Always the polite one huh?" Armadillomon took another bite from the chocolate, finishing it off. "Anyway, what's up with you? Still got that sleuth kick going?"

"Yes." Wormmon just finished off his chocolate bar, licking his mouth. "Ever since Ken became interested in being a detective, I have become interested as well. That's sort of why we are here..."

"Huh?" Armadillomon was now curious, but before Wormmon answered, Ken and Cody approached the car.

"Hey Wormmon, long time no see!" Cody said seeing Wormmon with Armadillomon in front of the car.

"Hello Cody." Wormmon bowed his head to Cody, his normal greeting.

"So you two what is this all about?" Cody asked as he walked to the other side of the car.

"What do you mean?" Ken replied rubbing his chin, feeling the slight stubble under his sensitive fingertips.

"You're not telling me the whole truth." Cody replied simply as he opened the door with a squeak.

"Ok I give. How can you tell?" Ken shook his head as he slid into the front seat. "You always seem to know when someone is lying."

"You try and hide your mouth when you lie." Cody pointed to Ken's hand, still resting on his face. "I noticed that a while ago. When you were trying to convince Yolei that you did not forgot the anniversary of your first date."

Ken looked down at his hand, and let out a short laugh. "Man you are good!" Ken removed his hand from his face, and rested them on his hips. Wormmon had climbed on to his shoulder, looking over Cody. "I was glad you were there. You convinced her that you had helped me up set up some big night at a romantic restaurant..."

"Which conveniently was closed for fumigation." Cody laughed back as Wormmon jumped into the back seat of the car. "Best I could come up with on such short notice."

Ken rubbed his eyes, and then took a deep breath. "But you are right. I just didn't want to tell it in front of your mother. I don't think she'd be too keen."

"Ah no. Daemon ain't back is he?" Armadillomon looked up from the back seat. "Or that Diabromon fella. A mon can only take so much!"

"No nothing that big." Wormmon shook his head on Ken's shoulder. "And no offence, but if any of them were back, we'd be calling every digidestined on the planet, not just you."

"It's just... remember the Dark Spore children?" Ken went on as he started his car, an old Toyota, ten years old, and nothing more than semi-reliable transportation.

Cody nodded remembering the well. Myotismon, while possessing Obidawa, had infected the children with the Dark Spore, a seed of evil, from which he could reform. "Yes. Is something wrong with them?"

"Well, I've been keeping tabs on them for years." Ken replied as the old car began to drive down the street. "Most of them are doing well. No trouble, no fights..."

"No flowers bloomin' on their heads." Armadillomon replied hopefully from the back seat.

"But one of them... is not doing so well." Ken sighed as he came to a brief stop at a red light. "Remember the girl Noriko?"

"Yes. She was the one who first brought the Dark Spore to bloom, wasn't she?" Cody answered.

"Right. She... is not doing as well. She is struggling at school, and doesn’t have any close friends." Ken relayed his report as he rubbed his chin. "And she's been in more than share of fights at school."

"And there is more?" Cody looked up at Ken, who had one hand on the wheel and one on his chin.

Ken looked down at his hand under his lower lip. "I guess I need to lose this habit." Ken brought down his hand. "But you are right. I wouldn’t drag you out here for that alone. Last night, somebody broke into their house. But not to steal anything."

"They didn't hurt her did they?!" Cody was suddenly angry. Surprisingly angry, even Ken caught this.

"No." Wormmon reassured quickly. "She wasn't hurt."

"But her bedroom." Ken went on. "Was covered in writing. Big black letters. The Dark Spore Child. Along with other words like hate and fear."

"That is sick." Armadillomon looked up with disgust.

"And somehow, the perpetrator even managed to write it on her face." Ken replied.

"You mean she was in her room when this happened?" Cody remarked with surprise.

"Yes." Ken pulled on to a side street. "So that is what is bothering me. How does a child and her digimon sleep through that?"

"... You think something might be behind this?" Cody went on as Ken pulled the car to a stop.

"Yes. The police aren't looking into it very hard. Unfortunately, it is not the first time Noriko has gotten into some sort of trouble." Ken sighed. "They think she did it herself."

"But you don't believe it." Cody looked at Ken as they got out of the car.

"No. The Dark Spore...." Ken reached around and touched the back of his neck. "Is not something to joke about. Besides, her digimon was there. And her parents. Something is amiss." Ken looked up at the house. "Which is why they called me. The original carrier of the Dark Spore."

"Ken..." Cody looked at Ken, seeing bad memories resurface.

"I am ok. I slew my demons five years ago." Ken walked up to the door of the house. "I just think Noriko might have one or two monsters left on her side." Ken sighed as he knocked on the door.

Less than a minute passed before they heard the locks being undone. The doors swung open and middle aged man half balding stood there, smiling slightly but it was a worn grin. "Thank you for coming." Noriko's father was in Noriko's room was with Ken, Wormmon, and Armadillomon, the room was covered with the black lettering, not as sinister as it was at night, but disturbing none the less.

"I wish it were under better circumstances." Ken replied as he came and, followed by Cody and their two digimon.

"I know, but the police didn't seem to concerned, and I really didn't know who else to call." Noriko's father explained as ken and Cody slipped off their shoes.

"No it's ok." Ken followed Noriko's dad to the bedroom. " Besides I wanted to see this for myself." Ken had a small instant camera for take pictures. Ken looked around at the room; the black writing was all there. Even in the daytime it made Ken's flesh crawl. "Nothing was touched right?" Ken shivered slightly, this serving to remind him of his own dark past.

"No." Noriko's dad shook his head as a small white dinosaur came into the room. "But I want to get this cleaned up as soon as possible. This just creeps me out, I can't imagine what it is doing to Noriko."

Snowagumon stood next to Noriko's dad keeping her head low. "It is hard on her." Snowagumon didn't even look Ken or Cody in the eyes, seemingly to prefer looking at their chest than to actually make eye contact. "But I am glad you came to help."

"No problem." Armadillomon smiled at the white digimon. (Damn... I should keep closer tabs on these kids myself! Not like there are that many good lookin' fillies around, what with Biyomon goin' steady with Gabumon, and Gatomon bouncin' between Veemon and Patamon. Not to mention Palmon's going out with Tentomon.)

Ken took another picture of the desk. "If you don't mind me asking, do you know why you didn't wake up? I mean, it took some time to write all those words." Ken asked Snowagumon not looking at her, more intent on looking for a sign at who had done this.

"I don't normally sleep in the same room with Noriko." Snowagumon admitted, seemingly ashamed. "I usually sleep under the air conditioner there...I just find it so hot sometimes, especially in the summer."

Armadillomon followed Snowagumon's gaze to the window at the far end of the house through a set of open doors, which had one of the box air conditioners attached. A tiny bed was set up underneath the window, which had a billow but no blankets. "Oh, ya like the cold?"

"Well yeah." Snowagumon blushed a little. "I used to sleep on Noriko's bed years ago, but when I digivolve to rookie, I found it too hot, not to mention...” Snowagumon stopped talking. "Err never mind."

"But?" Ken looked down at the white rookie.

"... She hasn't been sleeping well." Snowagumon looked at the ground, twisting her foot on the ground. "I... don't know if I should tell you, it... is kind of personal..."

"If you think it has anything to with this, you should tell us." Wormmon went on. "It is not healthy to keep these thing s bottled up."

"... Ok. If it will help Noriko." Snowagumon replied, her voice getting even softer. "She's been having dreams about Malomyotismon. The Dark Spore. Oikawa's death. Bad dreams. She wakes up screaming some nights. And it is happening more frequently."

"..." Ken stopped taking pictures.

"Something wrong Ken?" Armadillomon looked from the ground.

"Nothing... just I had dreams before where I woke up screaming." Ken took a deep breath. "About my brother Sam."

"Oh sorry y'all." Armadillomon apologized. "I forgot it was a sore spot with ya."

"No it's not. I honour is memory." Ken looked at the photos in his hands. "But I remember the dreams, and how painful they where. If Noriko is having dreams like them, I can understand why she has trouble sleeping."

"Well Cody is talking to Noriko and her mother." Snowagumon replied in a hopeful voice. "Maybe he will find something we missed."

******************************************************

"Thank you for the tea." Cody looked across the table at Noriko and her mother. Noriko looked remarkable like her mother as the three conversed about last night's events. So far, Cody had found nothing out. Noriko woke up, went to the bathroom, saw the writing on her face, screamed, and then her digimon and parents came rushing in. Cody was hoping to find some clue to what might be doing this, but so far, he hadn't the slightest idea.

"Thank you for coming." Noriko's mother smiled back at the young boy. "I know it must be inconvenient for you to come all this way."

"No." Cody looked over to Noriko. Her face was red from scrubbing, and he could still see the lettering if he looked hard enough. "Anyone who would do this to you Noriko should be locked up like the creature he is."

Noriko was speechless for a second, but then smiled. "Thank you."

Cody suddenly felt a little flushed. "Ah... sure thing. But I haven't done anything yet." Cody was chosen to talk to Noriko since he was non-threatening, and a good listener.

"You've done more than we could have hoped just being here." Noriko's mother smiled back.

"Well we like to help our fellow digidestined." Ken walked into the room, followed by everyone else except Noriko's father, who started cleaning the room with paint thinner. "I think we got all we need here."

"Already?" Cody sounded disappointed as he began to stand up

"Yes." Ken answered. "I still have classes tomorrow, but I promise to try and find something."

"Thank you." Noirko's mother got up and bowed. "If you ever need anything, please, call us."

"Of course." Ken bowed back.

Cody stood up, looking over at Noriko, having trouble taking his eyes of her. "It was nice seeing you again Noriko." Cody looked at the young girl, smiling a little awkwardly.

"You too Cody." Noriko stood up, smiling back as Cody and Ken headed to the door.

***********************************************************************

Ken led everyone back to his car, flipping through the photos as he did so. He didn't notice Cody seemed a bit distracted. "So find out anything?" Ken asked as they walked back to the car.

"No. Just like she said. Wakes up, bathroom, and she's sees she is covered in writing. No noises, smells, nothing." Cody replied disappointed. "You three find out anything?" He had truly hoped to find something. Anything.

"Yeah, that Snowagumon has the nicest curves I've ever seen!" Armadillomon smirked.

"Anything important?!" Cody looked down at his digimon mockingly.

"You don't think that's important?!" Armadillomon shot back. "This mon ain't seen any action since I went out with Biyomon two years ago!"

"Huh..." Cody shook his head at Armadillomon, who had a goofy grin on his face from the memory of that date with Biyomon. "Ken? What about you?"

"No. Nothing I could see." Ken put the pictures in his front jacket pocket. "I was hoping to find prints, or a hand print, or something to even show us if it was a digimon or a human. But I haven't narrowed it down any, except the guy who did this was smaller than a Greymon." Ken put his hand in his pocket. "Huh?" Ken fiddled around his pockets.

"Something wrong Ken?" Wormmon looked at Ken who was looking aggravated.

"My keys are missing." Ken checked his pockets again. "Dang!"

"Did you drop them back at the house?" Cody asked trying to help.

"I don't think so, but could you go check? We'll look around here." Ken placed his hand on his windshield. "I hope I didn't lock them in the car." Ken sighed not seeing anything. "Great. Well Wormmon and Armadillomon, start searching."

Cody made his way back to Noriko’s house, and knocked. Cody didn't wait long as the door swung open a second later. "Cody!" Noriko smiled happily seeing the young man on her doorstep.

"Oh h...hey Noriko." Cody smiled, rather awkwardly. (Gee, why do I sound so nervous?)

Noriko looked at Cody for a second. "Uh... did you want something?'

"Oh... yeah... Ken's keys. Have you seen them?" Cody's eyes began to drift down below Noirko's neck, but he caught himself in time.

"Sorry Cody." Noriko shook her head. "We will keep an eye out for them though."

"Oh ok...." Cody replied still staring intently at Noriko.

"Anything else?" Noriko asked Cody, Noriko also unable to take her eyes of him.

"Ah no." Cody replied, actually wishing he had a reason to stay longer.

"Ok then..." Noriko looked around as another second of silence passed. "Well bye then..." Noriko turned to head back to the bathroom, to wash her face again.

"Bye Noriko..." Cody turned around, and then stopped with his hand on the door handle. "Noriko?"

"Yes?" Noriko turned back around.

"I am sorry what happened to you." Cody looked into Noirko's beautiful face. "And I promise, I will do everything in my power to stop this sicko from every hurting anyone else, especially someone as beautiful as you." Cody's heart skipped. (Did I just say that last part out loud?!) Cody looked at Noriko's face, which was stone set and speechless. (Yup.)

Noriko lost her voice for a second, and then blushed. "Th... Thank you Cody." Noriko looked up into Cody, Cody being an inch higher than she was. Cody looked down, his mouth slightly a gasp. Neither one of them knew who started the kiss. One second they where both staring at each, the next Cody had his hands wrapped around her back, his eyes closed, kissing her strongly on the lips. Noriko had her hands around the small of Cody's back, kissing him back, both of them moaning softly as they held the embrace.

"Noriko?" Noriko's father came from around the corner, holding a can of industrial cleaner, but he was looking to the kitchen.

Cody jumped back, his heart skipping a beat. He actually slammed his back into the door. "Oufff!" Cody's back made a hallow wood sound as it collided with the oak door.

"Cody?" Noriko's dad looked to the front entrance. "What brings you back?"

"Oh er ah..." Cody's tongue felt like it swelled and prevent him from speaking clearly.

"Ken lost his keys." Noriko covered quicker, but she still was blushing a bright shade of red.

Luckily, Noriko's dad was rather distracted trying to remove the black lettering from Noriko's room. "Oh I am sorry I haven't seen them. We will look around for them, right Noriko?"

"Oh right." Noriko realized her dad was talking to her. Noriko looked back at Cody, smiling softly. "Bye Cody. And thank you."

"Bye Noriko... I'll call you." Cody added at the end as he opened the door, fumbling for the knob a bit.

"Nice boy." Noriko's father watched the door slam shut. "Well I am taking a break, the fumes are getting to me." Noriko walked over to the back door. "I am just going to get some fresh air.

"Ok Dad!" Noriko hummed as she went over to her room, wanting to be alone, but nor because she was sad, but because she felt like celebrating. Noriko bounced into her room, grabbing the pillow off her bed. "Oh Cody!"

"You look happy." Snowagumon appeared by Noriko's side if by magic.

Noriko wasn't surprised with the digimon's sudden appearance. Snowagumon could move with the gentleness of falling snow. "Oh hi Snowagumon..." Noirko's voice came out like a hum.

"You are in a good mood for someone who just had their room broken into." Snowagumon watched as Noriko went over to her bed.

"I know it seems silly." Noriko picked up the pillow off her bed, and began to dance with it around the room. "It's just... Cody." Noriko sighed, feeling a bit silly to be so infatuated.

"Cody?" Snowagumon asked with surprise. "What happened?"

"He kissed me." Noriko smiled, blushing slightly.

"Kissed you?" Snowagumon parroted. "Just yesterday I was trying to get you to ask a boy to a dance, and now you have a boyfriend?"

"Boyfriend..." Noriko twirled in a circle with the pillow. "I wouldn't go that far. Maybe the kiss was a one time thing. Maybe it was just he felt sorry for me." Noriko threw the pillow on to the bed. "But it felt so nice..." Noriko still smiled.

"Noriko, I don't want you to get your hopes up." Noriko went over to Snowagumon. "You may be setting yourself up for a fall."

"I know, I know." Noriko grabbed Snowagumon's hands and began to dance with her. "But right now, I am going to enjoy the moment." Noriko hummed as she stooped over, leading Snowagumon in an awkward dance.

"I have never seen you like this before!" Snowagumon raised her voice a little in shock.

"I haven't felt like this for years." Noriko made Snowagumon do a little pirouette, holding her arm high. "I mean, I never gave Cody a second through all these years, but I see him now. He's sweet, kind, and he is the cutest boy I've ever seen." Noriko picked Snowagumon up under her arms and twirled her in a circle. "He's perfect for me. He even has Armadillomon for you."

"Noriko!" Snowagumon replied as she was spun in a circle.

"Ok ok, so I admit I don't know much about what a female digimon would find attractive." Noriko placed Snowagumon gently on the bed. "But he seems nice, and I think that accent of his is cute. How does a digimon sound like a Texan anyway?"

"Well maybe..." Snowagumon rubbed her legs together as she sat on the bed. "But he just reminds me of a digimon who hurt me years ago..."

Noriko stopped dancing. "Snowagumon.... when was this?" Noriko was genuinely surprised; Snowagumon was almost always with her.

"It... happened just after we first met..." Snowagumon looked at her feet as she rubbed them together. "I... no. I just don't want to talk about it right now. It's to painful." Snowagumon shook her head left and right slightly, suddenly seeing something where Noriko's pillow used to be. Snowagumon crawled down the bed, and picked up a small plastic object where Noriko's pillow once was. Snowagumon held the object up for Noriko to see. "Noriko..." Snowagumon looked at the marker. "Where did this come from?"

Noriko's hear began to flutter nervously. "I... I don't know..." Noriko's face went a shade whiter than it normally was.

Snowagumon looked at the black felt marker, the tip worn from much use. Wordlessly she jumped off the bed, and walked over to the wall. Noriko's dad had removed much of the black lettering, change them into black smudges that would stain the walls forever. But there where still a few words left in the hard to reach places. Snowagumon walked up to the word HATE scribbled by Noriko's death. She took the black marker, and drew a single identical line next to the H. The colour, the width of the line, was identical. Snowagumon turned back to Noriko. "Noriko... you didn't..."

"NO!" Noriko held out her hands as if she was going to be attacked. "I was asleep! I swear!"

Snowagumon looked back at the pen. "I have been your digimon for over five years, so I am going to believe you." Snowagumon walked over to the wastebasket next to the desk. "But I don't think we should give this pen to the police or Ken." Snowagumon dropped the marker, the marker making a metal clunking sound as it landed in the near empty waste respectable. "Just in case."

Noriko began to shake, hugging herself tightly. She felt something burning inside her, wanting to be released. But she dare not let it out, nor would she tell Snowagumon, or anyone. (Don't lose yourself...) Noriko found her legs wobbly, and she sat on her bed, She picked up the pillow of the ground, holding it close to her chest for some small bit of comfort as she rocked back and forth. (Don't lose yourself, Don't lose yourself, Don't lose yourself...)

***************************************************************

Cody walked back to Ken's car, touching his lips as he still felt the after effects of the kiss.

"Ah no." Cody blushed slightly.

Ken raised an eyebrow, and stood silent for a second. Then he looked to his left shoulder. "Wormmon?" Ken looked at the insect digimon. "Feel like taking a quick trip to get my spare keys?"

"Sure thing Ken." Wormmon jumped of Ken's shoulders. "Wormmon digivolve to..." Wormmon's body grew six feet in half a second. "STINGMON!" Stingmon's tall green insect form appeared on the street.

Ken had to look up to Stingmon now, Stingmon being a fair bit taller. "Thanks Stingmon." Ken looked down at Cody and Armadillomon. "Why don't you take Armadillomon for a ride?"

"Huh?" Armadillomon looked up at Ken with a touch of shock. Then Ken made a small gesture with his neck towards Stingmon, and Armadillomon got the meaning. "Yeah, it's been a while since I took a flight anywhere. None of my champion forms can fly."

"Well then welcome to Air Stingmon." Stingmon bent down, picking up the small yellow plated digimon. "The only way to travel."

"Have fun you two." Ken said as Stingmon began to hover, easily carrying Armadillomon's weight.

"Just don't get into any trouble!" Armadillomon shouted back, already over the treetops.

"We promise!" Ken shouted back, but he doubted either of them heard. Stingmon was already flying back towards his apartment at full speed. Ken waited a few seconds till they where cone, before turning to Cody. "So Cody, thirsty?"

"Uh... oh sure." Cody hadn't realized how much he was out of it.

Ken pointed across the street in the park. A hot dog cart with a big red and yellow umbrella stood under a large tree. "Now come on, let's get a drink." Ken walked over to the nearby hot dog cart, which was stationed by a young man with bright red hair somewhere between Ken and Cody's age.

"Is something wrong Ken?" Cody was a little surprised that Ken had sent Stingmon and Armadillomon away.

Ken motioned to the hot dog cart vendor for two Pepsis. "No not really." The vendor handed over the two drinks, glistening wet from the mini fridge. "I just though we should talk." Ken handed the drink to Cody, and began to walk over to the bench.

"Ok..." Cody knew there was something more to this. "Well, then, what would you like to talk about?" Cody sent on the bench next to Ken.

"So tell me." Ken sat next to Cody on the park bench. "What did you and Noriko do in there?"

"Err um what do you mean?" Cody stuttered now clearly surprised.

"You're hiding something. I may touch my chin when I embellish the truth, but you turn red." Ken stretched out his feet.

"Really?" Cody felt hot.

"If you where any redder, I'd swear you were a Redveggiemon." Ken cracked open his Pepsi, sending up a small spray of foam. "Now spill."

Cody blushed, not opening his drink, just shifting it from hand to hand. "She kissed me." Cody blushed.

"Ahhhh..." Ken nodded knowingly, taking a small sip. "Let me guess, your first real kiss?" Ken saw that same look on his face after he kissed Yolei for the first time.

"Er... kinda of. I mean Yolei did kiss me under the mistletoe last Christmas, but that doesn't count." Cody blushed a little more, thinking Ken may get a little angry with that.

Ken however, didn't care less. He had no jealousy towards anybody about Yolei, least of all Cody. "It doesn't count because you aren't attracted to Yolei."

"Welllll..." Cody smirked a little, not being able to help that joke.

"Ok ok, let me rephrase." Ken let out a little laugh. "You don't have any intention towards Yolei, other than being good friends. But let me guess, you feel a little something for Noriko right now, do you?"

"Hard to keep a secret from a detective." Cody shook his head from side to side. "But yeah. " Cody finally opened his own soda. "I mean, I can't believe how much she changed. And we were talking in the house, and we just seemed to click. And that little smile she gets..."

"Ok ok." Ken stopped Cody in mid-praise. Ken took another long sip from his drink, before he got into the difficult part of the conversation. "Cody... I don't want you to take this wrong way, but this may not be a good time for you to start talking about dating Noriko."

"Hey, I'm fifteen now, sixteen in less than a month. Beside, you and Yolei started dating at my age." Cody was suddenly on the offensive.

"No it's not age." Ken corrected himself. "We don't really know what's is going on with Noriko. She is troubled right now, and you can see that."

"I don't. I see some poor innocent girl being harassed by some freak." Cody grinded his teeth a little.

"We don't know that. Noriko could be doing this lettering thing herself as far as we know; I am just not sure either way. Besides, she is also failing school, getting in fights, and withdrawing from the world." Ken said a little more bluntly. "She is not somebody you should be thinking about asking out right now."

"Well, that's my decision!" Cody huffed.

"Cody, it may not be a good idea for you to get involved with her right now." Ken replied with an air of caution.

"Well the same thing could be said about Yolei going out with the Digimon Emperor!" Cody snapped without thinking. Ken's face went blank, his breath leaving him for a second. So did Cody. In that split second, he had wanted to hurt Ken. And that had worked. "Ken... I'm... sorry... I didn't mean..." Cody stuttered.

"No no, you're right." Ken held out his hand. "I of all people should not be judging someone like that."

"But I should know better..." Cody felt awful, throwing that in Ken's face. (Why don't I just blame him for his brother Sam's death while I am at it?) Cody couldn't help but think.

"I have to learn to live with my past, and I will be continuously reminded of it forever." Ken took another half a sip. "Every time I see Wormmon, or I think of Sam, I am reminded of that dark phase of my life. But I am also reminded at how thankful I am to have friends who helped me out of it." Ken placed a hand on Cody's shoulder.

Cody felt better, the strong hand reassuring. "I am sorry."

"So am I." Ken removed his hand. "And I promise not no interfere with your decision. I just wouldn't be a friend if I didn't voice my concerns." Ken looked up, seeing Stingmon and Armadillomon coming down from the sky. "But just promise me you won't let her hurt you."

"I promise." Cody nodded as Stingmon and Armadillomon landed.

***********************************************

"So why did you have us leave?" Wormmon looked over at Ken who was looking at some pictures he took of Noriko's room.

"Just needed to talk to Cody." Ken looked closer at the photos with a magnifying glass. (Hmmmm the majority of the writing is on the lower half of the room.) Ken looked at another picture of Noriko's desk.

"May I ask what it was about?' Wormmon asked curiously. He had gotten a bit of the detective bug from Ken.

"He is interested in Noriko." Ken looked closely at the chair in the photo behind the desk. The bottom leg was resting on a large book. (That suggests the chair was moved around, and put back hastily. I doubt Noriko would use the chair with the leg resting on a book like that. So perhaps the chair was used to reach the high walls and ceiling...)

"Oh." Wormmon suddenly rubbed his front feelers nervously.

Ken was still rather deep in thought. (Ok so whoever made the lettering needed the chair to reach the ceiling... so we can eliminate digimon with flight, mental powers, long appendages, or who are tall enough to reach the ceiling on their own. Which still leaves about a hundred types of digimon, and the entire human world under seven feet. But it is a start. And that still means Noriko could have done this herself.) Ken looked down at Wormmon, and for the first time, noticed he was looking a touch anxious. "Something wrong?"

"Errr..." Wormmon thought for a second. "Ah Ken... I have something to tell you." Wormmon suddenly turned forest green, meaning he was embarrassed.

"Is there a problem?" Ken asked with concern.

"No... " Wormmon rubbed his front feelers together. "Snowagumon... asked for me to meet her in the park tonight when we are alone."

Ken broke into a smile. "Wormmon you devil!" Ken rubbed the top of Wormmon's head. "A date! About time to."

Wormmon turned a dark shade of green. "I don't know if it is that... she just said she wanted to talk..."

"You are still so shy." Ken smirked. 'You'd think that DNA-digivolving with Veemon a few times would have rubbed off some of that that guys self confidence."

Wormmon nodded slightly "I wish... along with some info on what to do on a date. I mean, I never even kissed a girl before."

"Whoa..." Ken never though about that before. Digimon must get the same urges as humans, and poor Wormmon was almost always with him... "Well it's not too hard. You talk, you listen." Ken sat on the ground cross-legged next to him. "If you think you have a chance, you put your arm around her."

"No arms." Wormmon sat up, waving his front feelers.

"Err ok...” Ken though. "Well just listen, and feel it out. I you think you can, try initiating a kiss. Simply put your lips...

"No lips." Wormmon opened his purple mouth wide and shut it.

"Man digimon relations are hard." Ken rubbed his head.

Wormmon let out a little laugh. "I guess. I don't really have much experience."

"Well maybe if you're lucky it'll change tonight." Ken rubbed the top of Wormmon's head again, Wormmon closing his eyes and smiling.

"She is good looking, isn't she?" Wormmon replied with a bit of smug satisfaction.

Ken let out a little smirk. "You know, if I was in to the whole albino midget dinosaur thing, I'd take her myself."

Wormmon smiled back. "I guess it is hard for you to understand why digimon find other digimon attractive. Kind of boring that humans all look so much a like I guess."

"All us humans look like alike?" Ken raised an eyebrow.

"Well I don't mean it like that..." Wormmon started feeling a little ashamed of the question. "Just don't you find it boring how humans always look the same? No fur, feathers, claws... always just soft skin."

"Well some of us like soft skin." Ken smiled at the digimon. "Guess it's a human thing."

*************************************************************

Stingmon landed just outside Noriko's hose, on the park bench. Stingmon thought about holding his champion form, feeling a bit more confident in the tall six-foot plus form with massive muscles. But if he did mange to hit it off with Snowagumon, it would be hard to relate when he was over four feet taller than she was. Stingmon began to glow faintly, shrinking down to his Wormmon form. "That's a bit better."

"Hello Wormmon." A familiar soft voice asked from behind him.

Wormmon turned around. "Oh Snowagumon!" Wormmon gasped slightly in surprise.

"Thanks for coming Wormmon." Snowagumon said softly as she sat on a park bench. Snowagumon tapped the bench beside her, indicating she wanted Wormmon to join her.

"Err no problem." Wormmon jumped up on the bench with a little leap.

Snowagumon made a little half smile, which Wormmon found sweet. "No it's nice to talk to someone. Noriko hasn't been very talkative as of late."

(Just be polite and listen.) Wormmon thought to himself, repeating Ken's advice. "Well what would you like to talk about?"

"I want to talk about... Noriko..." Snowagumon replied softly.

"Oh..." Wormmon answered, though he should have guessed the topic. What else would a digimon be more worried about?

"I am just... worried about Noriko. I think I've been quiet for too long." Snowagumon began to rub her hands together. "She hasn't been doing well in school, she has no friends except for me. And now... this... last incident." Snowagumon sighed. "This is all a bit much for me."

(Whoa I am way over my head. I can hardly talk to girl, much les counsel.) Wormmon's heart was racing. "You are trying your best."

"It's not good enough. No matter what I do Noriko seems to get worse." Snowagumon let out a little sigh, a small line of ice crystals forming from her mouth. "Which is why I wanted to talk to you."

"Me?" Wormmon replied with surprise.

"Ken was the Digimon Emperor." Snowagumon reminded Wormmon.

"Yeah... but that was a long time ago." Wormmon instantly defended Ken.

"Oh I am sorry, I didn't mean to be so blunt." Snowagumon put a taloned claw on her face. "I just wanted to know... how you changed him."

"Changed him?" Wormmon looked a little confused.

"Well he was evil, and now he's good." Snowagumon tired to explain. "How did you change him so much?"

"Ken never was evil... he was just confused." Wormmon still tried to defend Ken, even though Snowagumon was right.

"But still...." Snowagumon started.

"How can I explain..." Wormmon began to rub his front feelers again. "Ken was angry at the world and himself for his brothers death. He blamed himself and had no way to deal with the anger and self-loathing. But he was never evil. He just... forgot himself. He hid under the mask of the Digimon Emperor, but that wasn't who he was. He was and always is Ken"

Snowagumon seemed to think long and hard for a minute. "Forgetting yourself.... hiding under a guise." Snowagumon rubbed her head once slowly, as if to get the thoughts outs. "Maybe that's what is wrong with Noriko. She is hiding from herself." Snowagumon smiled slightly. "Maybe that is what I need to do. Help remind her who she is and what she is capable of."

"Sounds good to me." Wormmon nodded in agreement. "I know Noriko is a good girl. She wouldn't have you as a partner if she didn't."

"Thank you Wormmon." Snowagumon placed a hand on Wormmon's head. "You've been really helpful." Snowagumon bent her head down and closed her eyes. "I... don't know how to thank you."

Snowagumon's snout was an inch away from Wormmon's head. (Don't be afraid to start the kiss...) Ken's words rang in his head. Wormmon could feel his insect heart going a mile a minute. He had never been so scare, and the window if opportunity was shrinking fast. Snowagumon began to pull her head up, and Wormmon panicked. He moved his head forward, and kissed Snowagumon full on the lips.

Snowagumon paused for a second as Wormmon kissed her reptilian lips. Then she suddenly snapped her head back suddenly. "Gah!" Snowagumon pushed back with her claws hard, actually shoving Wormmon head over heels.

"Ouff!" Wormmon landed off the bench on the cool walkway. He looked up from his back seeing Snowagumon standing on the bench.

Snowagumon had a scowl on her face that seem to move all the way down her body. For a second, Wormmon was afraid she was going to attack him. Suddenly Snowagumon took a deep breath, and her anger melted away, replaced by a look of horror. "Ohh Wormmon...." Snowagumon placed her claws over her mouth, her eyes wide. "I... I am so sorry Wormmon. I... completely overreacted!" Snowagumon exhaled, sending a waft of cold air towards Wormmon.

"No no it's my fault." Wormmon rolled on to his stomach. Still a bit scared. Snowagumon had looked quite angry, and Wormmon figured he must have done something wrong.

"No it's my fault... I had a bad experience with a digimon a while ago." Snowagumon replied as she began to twist her three clawed foot into the ground. "I... am just not comfortable being touched. In almost anyway."

"I am sorry... had I known..." Wormmon felt very ashamed of himself.

"I...hate to talk about it. It happened a while ago, but still..." Snowagumon looked away. "Please don't be angry with yourself Wormmon. You are a kind digimon. I am just not ready for this type of relationship... I would like to just be friends."

The word friends stung Wormmon, but he knew he had to accept. "I would like that Snowagumon." Wormmon put on his best smile, but he was not a good actor.

"Friends then?" Snowagumon jumped off the bench, and held out her white paw.

"Friends." Wormmon held out his front feelers, and shook Snowagumon's paw awkwardly.

Snowagumon redrew his hand, and smiled one last time. "I better get back. I don't want to leave Noriko alone for too long, you know..."

"No I know." Wormmon nodded once. "I hope we catch this guy."

"We will I am sure of that." Snowagumon began to walk away. "I'll see you later Wormmon."

"Night Snowagumon." Wormmon replied waving in an awkward way. Wormmon watched Snowagumon leave, until he was alone in the park. Wormmon just sat on the ground for a second, ashamed at taking advantage of Snowagumon like that. Then something else dawned on him. (How on earth am I supposed to get back?) Wormmon looked up at the city skyline. He had no money for a bus or cab or anything, and he had the walking speed of a four year old toddler. (Looks like I walk...) Wormmon sighed as he began to make his way back. (Maybe I can make it back before sunrise....) Wormmon sighed. (The perfect end to a perfect night.)

*************************************************************

"Mmmm..." Ken began to toss and turn in his sleep. His dream, what he could dimly perceive of it, was cold. Freezing, as if he was trapped in a glacier of blue ice. Ken tried to breath, but the ice filled his lungs, drowning him, choking the very life out of him..... "Gaaahhh!" Ken awoke with a start, breathing as if he had nearly suffocated, his breath coming out in whispers of ice vapour. (What on earth...) Ken breathed again, his breath making a small fog in the dim candlelight, before disappearing. (Why is it so cold...) Ken grabbed his arms, and began to shiver, turning his feet of the bed. He slid off the bed, his feet suddenly becoming wet in some strange thick wet substance. (What is this?! What is going on?!) Ken looked down, but it was to dark to make any details from the floor in the dim light. Then Ken noticed the light. Two candles where lit on his desk, one on each side of the portrait of Ken. Ken eyes went wide, and if he was now shaking from the cold or the fear, he could not tell. Ken moved closer to the picture, something was written underneath, in elegant calligraphy. Ken slowly picked up the piece of paper, not even feeling the course texture on his fingertips. Ken read the line using the candle's blaze to see the perfect printing.

Ken's heart skipped as he threw the paper to the ground. He lunged for the light switch, snapping it up and filling the room with a blaze of horrible light. The room was red. The desk, the floor, the door were all soaked with blood. Sam's blood. Ken stumbled back, falling to his knees as his strength left him. Then his eyes fell on to the message written across the wall over his light switch. Instead of ink and paper, this was written hastily in blood, the letters dripping down and pooling on the floor.

It would be a full fifteen minutes before Ken stopped screaming.

********************************************************************

Cody came as quickly as he could, not even bothering to knock at the Ichijoji’s door. Not that it would have mattered. The door was wide open, forgotten about in the confusion. Ken's mother was talking to the police, her face noticeably troubled, not for the intrusion upon their home, but for the anguish her son was in. Mr. Ichijoji had to drag their hysterical son from the room, tracking blood all the way down the hall.

"There there." Yolei rocked Ken as if he was a newborn baby, his head cradled in his lap. Her own jeans and shirt now had several red spots on them, but Yolei didn't care.

"What happened here?" Armadillomon looked around at the state of chaos.

Wormmon crawled over to the new arrivals, the only one not talking to someone. "Someone broke into Ken's bedroom."

"Is he ok?" Armadillomon replied his voice full of concern.

"Physically..." Wormmon rubbed his front feelers together. "But whoever it was made a mockery of Sam's death. The whole room is covered in blood, around the picture Ken keeps of Sam."

"Lord." Cody wiped his lips. "What sort of sick freak does that? Blood no less!"

A second officer came out of the bedroom, hearing the conversation. "It's not human." The officer replied although he had been part of the conversation. "Best guess it's pig's blood, bought from a local butcher." The officer held a small vial of blood in his hand, which would be tested back at the lab. "Still sick as hell though."

"Any clues on who did it?" Cody asked, ready for him and Armadillomon to go tearing across the city if the officer knew.

"Nothing." The officer replied shaking his head. "No finger prints, no motive, nothing."

(Noriko, then Ken.) Cody thought privately. (There's a motive all right. Digidestined.) "Where's is Hawkmon?" Cody looked around, noticing his absent.

"Searching the area." The officer replied referring to the brown eagle digimon that came with the purple haired girl. "I had asked him to do an aerial search. Digimon sure do come in handy."

"We do, don't we?" Armadillomon smiled from the ground. Some humans still distrusted digimon. Of course, some digimon distrusted humans, or tried to destroy the planet. But the officer seemed to genuinely respect digimon

"I'll say. But it looks like there was no forced entry. And I see no scratches on the lock so it looked like someone had keys. This is just a guess, but someone may have access. I would recommend staying at a hotel until you get the locks changed. We will have an officer patrol the area to watch you house just in case.

"That's a good idea." Wormmon agreed. He wanted to get Ken out of this house as soon as possible. "Listen." Yolei spoke up, Ken still shaken, but looking better. "Why don't you all stay at my house tonight. My parents are gone, and I can ship my brothers and sisters over to a friends for a sleepover."

"Yolei we don't want to inconvenience you." Ken's father started to say, but Yolei interrupted him.

"I wouldn't be able to sleep if I knew you may all be in danger. The apartment of my parent's store is huge. I insist you come." Yolei replied a matter a factly. "Don't make me get Hawkmon to digivolve and drag you over there."

"D...Dad..." Ken stuttered, getting up of Yolei's lap. "I... don't think I can sleep here tonight and I would feel better at a friend's house. If you wouldn't mind..."

"No we don't mind." Ken's mother put a hand on her husbands shoulder. "I don't think any of us can sleep well tonight."

"Then it's settled." Yolei stood up, Ken acting a bit better, though his face was still pale. "You can stay as long as you want. Besides, that guy may come back. And who knows what may..."

"Oh no!" Cody's breath left him as a horrible thought filled his mind. "Noriko!"

*******************************************************

Noriko rubbed her eyes as she woke up, half expecting the walls to be recovered in writing. But they weren't. (Great... maybe I didn't do that writing. The intruder may have just stashed the marker under my pillow after writing on my face.) Noriko felt a bit better as she began to go to the bathroom, hearing the phone ring. She didn't bother answering it, it was never for her.

Three rings later, Noriko's father said a sleepy "Hello" into the receiver. "Noriko..." Noriko's father called out. "It's for you."

"Really?" Noriko was surprised as she stopped at the bathroom door. No one ever called her at house.

Noriko's dad put the phone down. "Really." Noriko's dad went back to the door. "Lock the door when you leave. I am late for work. These mornings are killing me."

Noriko went to the phone, still not fully awake. "Hello?"

"Are you ok?!" Cody sounded anxious.

"Yeah..." Noriko rubbed her eyes. She was tired, and she had just gotten up. School started soon. Not that she was looking forward to it. "What's wrong?"

"Someone broke into Ken's apartment. We figured it would be the same guy." Cody calmed down a little, Noriko's voice soothing him. "I should have called you first, I mean you where the one being targeted before."

"No no it's ok. Is Ken ok? What happened?" Noriko was concerned.

"Whoever it was knew exactly how to hurt Ken." Cody took a deep breath. "They used his own brother Sam against him."

"Sam? But didn't he...." Noriko started.

"Died years ago. But Ken blamed himself for a while, thinking Sam died because he wished for it... He still does I think." Cody went on. "The whole room was doused in blood, with the message 'Be careful what you wish for, you just might get it'."

"That's... horrible..." Noriko stuttered.

"Tell me about it. I mean, poor Ken." Cody started. "I saw him, crying like a baby in Yolei's lap. Whoever did this, did it perfectly. I haven't seen Ken like this since he lost that Digimon Emperor guise, not to mention he almost lost Wormmon. But I am worried about you." Cody started.

"Really?" Noriko smiled a little.

"I am afraid that this guy is not going to be happy just scaring us, and may start hurting people. And if it is a digimon, I don' t think Snowagumon can protect you." Cody started. "If it is all right with your parents, I'd like to stay over at your house tonight, with Armadillomon of course."

"Of... of course." Noriko stuttered, her heart skipping. Cody! At her house! True, it was just as a bodyguard, but still.... "I will tell my parent as soon as I get home from school."

"Great. Be careful when you walk to school though. Take Snowagumon with you if possible." Cody lectured. "And please... don't let anything happen to you."

"I won't." Noriko smiled softly. "Bye Cody."

"Bye Noriko." Noriko heard a click on the other end.

Noriko smiled happily as she put the phone down, the receiver slipping suddenly. "Ah..." Noriko realized the phone was rather slippery, and she had trouble getting a grip. Then she looked at her hands, and every muscle in her body froze. Her hands were covered with blood.

******************************************************************

"So will you be all right on the couch?" Noriko's mother handed Cody some blankets and a pillow.

"I will be fine." Cody thanked Noriko's mother.

"And how about you?" Noriko's mother bent down on her knees.

Armadillomon arranged his blankets in a nest of sorts. "Just fine ma'am." Armadillomon didn't really cared where he slept, the floor would be just fine if need be, but the blankets are a nice touch.

"Well then have a nice rest you two." Noriko's mother went to the hall light. "You too honey." Noriko's mother looked at her daughter as she turned off the light.

"I will mom." Noriko nodded, the hall still illuminated by her bedroom light. "You sure you don't want to use my room?" Noriko asked Cody from her bedroom door. She had on a thin flannel pyjamas, coloured pink. Snowagumon was by her side, looking at the pair of boys getting ready for bed.

"No this is fine, when I slept in the Digital World I had to do often with just the hard ground." Cody smiled as Armadillomon yawned, making himself comfy.

"Well ok then." Noriko smiled slightly.

"Night Noriko." Cody smiled from the couch as Noriko shut the door behind her.

"Good night Cody." Noriko smiled as she closed her bedroom door, but as an after thought, left it open a bit. Just in case Cody needed to get in a hurry.

Snowagumon stayed on the opposites side of the door. "Maybe I should sleep with her tonight..." Snowagumon twisted her foot into the ground. "I know I have trouble sleeping when it's so hot, but her sleeping troubles are worse."

"Well if you think that's necessary but me and Cody here got it." Armadillomon proudly boasted. "Ain't no one gettin' past us."

Snowagumon smiled at Armadillomon. "You don't know how happy I am to see you two here." Snowagumon let out a little yawn. "I am going to sleep under the air conditioner in the other room. If you need anything, please feel free to wake me." Snowagumon walked by Cody on the couch. "Sweet dreams Cody."

"Same to you." Cody answered.

"And sweet dreams to you as well." Snowagumon looked down at Armadillomon as she walked past.

"I can almost guarantee that." Armadillomon put on a goofy grin as Snowagumon walked into the far room, out of sight.

"Well I am going to sleep." Cody yawned as he burrowed himself into the couch. "Night Armadillomon." Cody looked over at the bed Armadillomon made, a simple nest of blanket and quilts.

"Well I ain't goin' to sleep just yet." Armadillomon stretched his legs. "Just goin' to do a little patrol."

"Ok then." Cody yawned and curled up on the couch, pulling the blanket over him. "Just be quiet then. Try not to disturb anyone."

(Depends if Snowagumon is a screamer or not.) "You got it." Armadillomon watched Cody mumble something, and close his eyes. Cody was always a fast sleeper. (Now let's turn on the old Armadillomon charm.) Armadillomon walked over to the next room in the house, a living room, but it was quite cold, since a box air conditioner was running. Snowagumon was under the air conditioner, reading "Dante's Inferno."

Snowagumon flipped a page in the book, using a small lamp plugged in on her side to read. Armadillomon didn't think she heard her, until she whispered. "Checking up on me?"

"Oh well, ya." Armadillomon admitted.

"That's sweet of you." Snowagumon took a bookmark from the side, marking her passage. "But I am capable of protecting myself." Snowagumon stood up. "Even if I can't digivolve above rookie yet, I will still protect this house."

"I don't doubt that for a sec." Armadillomon admitted. "So watch readin'?"

"Dante's Inferno." Snowagumon ran her claws over the cover of the book. "I must admit, these humans have some fascinating literature."

"Dante's Inferno?" Armadillomon cocked his head. "Seems kinda weird for you to be reading. I guess I pictured you more of a romance novel gal or somethin'"

"No... I am not really interested in romance." Armadillomon's smile faded a bit when she said this. "I just find the human's concept of hell fascinating... As a digimon, we know what happens to us when we die. We become reformed. We may change, we may not remember our previous life, but we are still there. And even if something drastic happens to us, our data still lives on. But the humans... they don't know. So they make up stories and fairy tales." Snowagumon placed the book down. "I guess humans need to think there is something more than death."

"... You're afraid that this freak may hurt Noriko?" Armadillomon looked up to Snowagumon.

"No. I am afraid Noriko may hurt herself." Snowagumon sighed. "Even before this started... she... tried to kill herself."

"What?" Armadillomon gasped.

"If you look closely, you'll see a thin scar on her left wrist. I stopped her before the injury was life threatening..." Snowagumon shivered. "But I am afraid. I can't guard her every second I know that... But I will never be complete if something like that happens to her."

"I had no idea..." Armadillomon couldn't imagine living with that. Cody was always very stable. But imagine if he wasn't. What if he was like Ken was when he was the Digimon Emperor? Armadillomon never gave much thought to that before.

"It's ok. It's just... I wish I could do more." Snowagumon turned her head, looking out to the window.

"You've done more than any digimon has for her." Armadillomon walked up to Snowagumon. "So I was thinkin'." Armadillomon smiled, deciding that this was the best time to make his intentions known. "How about we get to know each other a bit better? Us bein' roomies and all."

Snowagumon placed a white hand on her face and giggled. "I'm sorry Armadillomon you are just not my type."

"Ya don't go for the devilishly handsome type?" Armadillomon stood on his legs, and flexed his front left leg. "Or maybe the ruggedly strong?"

"No..." Snowagumon replied blushing a little. "When I meant not my type, I meant... gender wise." Snowagumon didn't want to tell Armadillomon the real truth. It's not something she spread around.

"Ahhh..." Armadillomon's eyes went wide as he went down on all fours again, getting a very nasty picture of Snowagumon and Gatomon in his head. (What a waste... but does open up a threesome possibility...)

"I just... always preferred females." Snowagumon replied as she looked down at the ground, twisting her three claw foot left and right.

"Does Noriko know?' Armadillomon asked cautiously.

"No. She has enough on her mind with out having to deal with a gay digimon." Snowagumon looked up. "And it probably be awkward, what her being a girl as well."

"Why do you like girls?" Armadillomon asked, suddenly realizing how blunt and rude that must sounded.

"Why do you like girls?" Snowagumon repeated back, putting her hands on her hips.

"Good point." Armadillomon rubbed his head. "Guess I just like the looks myself."

"Me... I don't know... I guess I just like the way the taste maybe." Snowagumon licked her lips once.

Armadillomon's heart skipped as he got a crystal clear image of Snowagumon eating out Palmon. "Ah well ya can't blame a mon for trying. Especially for a womon like you."

"That's sweet." Snowagumon bent down slightly and put a claw on Armadillomon's lips. "Maybe I will let you see more of me... if things change."

"I'll hold my breath." Armadillomon smiled goofily as he watched Snowagumon walked to her bead, his eyes on his perfect white tail. (At least I will have good dreams tonight...)

*****************************************************************

Across town....

Yolei's apartment was dark, save for the light from the television set. Ken was in a pair of grey sweat pants but was bare from the waist up. Ken usually slept in his underwear, but Yolei was here, not to mention his parents. Ken didn't think his parents would want to see him parading around almost naked with his girlfriend like that, especially when they where asleep in the next room. Ken had a channel selector in his hand as he flipped through the channels on Yolei's older model television, not really carrying what was on. The sound wasn't even loud enough for him to hear. He just didn't want to sleep.

"Still awake Ken?" Yolei asked in a whisper, sneaking up behind Ken on the couch. She was wearing a thing kimono today since Ken's parents were here. She normally slept in a purple negligee, a rather naughty thing Kari had bought her for her birthday as a gag gift, but Yolei found it very comfortable and cool on these hot summer days.

"Yeah..." Ken flipped the channel again. An old Godzilla film appeared, the one where he was fighting Rodan, the giant winged dinosaur creature. "I am just not tired."

"You've been awake since 2 am last night." Yolei went to the front of the couch, and sat down next to her boyfriend. "It's been 24 hours since you slept."

"I know.. I just don't want to sleep." Ken fully admitted, flipping the channel again. This time a news show appeared, a digimon had saved some child's life from a burning fire.

"I understand." Yolei admitted as she looked around. "Where's Wormmon?"

"He's on the balcony. He feels sort of guilty for not being here when the... blood..." Ken's voice trailed off. "So he's guarding. I tried to get him in, but he refuses." Ken had a passing thought, he never asked what happened with Snowagumon on that date. (Maybe he needs some time alone to think...)

"I understand. Hawkmon actually just went on a patrol." Yolei moved over. This was a lie. Yolei had purposely set Hawkmon away. "Guess he is afraid I will be targeted next."

"It's nice to have guardian angels like them." Ken changed the channel again. A science network, discussing the theories of multiple universes, citing the Digital World as a specific example. "I just wished... Sam..."

"I know Ken." Yolei moved close, rubbing against Ken arm. "I know you wish he was here. But don't you dare start blaming yourself for Sam again. No one has ever loved his brother as much as you did. The fact that this is bothering you so much is proof of this."

Ken stopped turning the channels, pausing for a second. Then he turned to Yolei. "You always know just what to say." Ken smiled, though it was half hearted.

"I just say the truth." Yolei ran her fingertips over Ken's strong arm. "Are you going to stop blaming yourself and go to sleep now?"

"No... I still... can't close my eyes without getting that image of a bloody room out of my head." Ken sighed.

"Yes... I can imagine how horrible that must have been." Yolei sympathized. "But why don't you try and get that image out of your head."

"I don't exactly know how to do..." Ken turned to face Yolei, and his jaw dropped. "That..." Ken struggled out the word that.

Yolei had taken open the front her kimono completely. She was completely naked, no nightiee, no negligee, nothing. Even in the dim light Ken could see her perky breasts, her smooth stomaching curving into her beautiful hips. Yolei had her legs parted slightly, and Ken's gaze stood transfixed. Yolei had a bush of purple curly hair on her crotch, which went down between in between her legs clinging on her pussy lips. "How this?" Yolei smiled seductively.

"Ah eh eh..." Ken gasped. Yolei had never taken off her pants for him before. They where both still virgins, or so Ken believed so. Yolei's exact words were she that the she never even kissed another guy from this planet. Ken and Yolei had made out a few times, but Ken and Yolei never went further than removing their tops.

Yolei blushed slightly, and her heart raced. It was a rush doing this. She had discussed this plan with Hawkmon. Hawkmon said it would be nice for Ken, and maybe it was time for them to... take it up a step. Hawkmon was Yolei's best friend, and he was always did what was best for Yolei and Ken as a couple. Which was kind of surprising to Yolei, considering Hawkmon's and hers past relationship. "That a nice image for you?" Yolei opened her legs a bit more, giving Ken a better view.

Ken regained himself a bit, but his eyes had trouble going above Yolei's neck. "Yolei, what are you doing?"

"Getting that nasty image out of your head." Yolei smiled and placed her left hand at her mouth, licking her fingertips. "Am I doing a good job?" Yolei took her hand of her mouth and placed it on Ken's nose.

"Y...Yolei...." Ken shivered as Yolei dragged her wet finger down his nose and on to his lips.

"Shhhhh...." Yolei hushed Ken as she dragged her finger over his strong chin. Yolei bent close, placing a kiss on Ken's lips. Ken closed his eyes on Yolei slipped her tongue into his mouth, moaning softly.

Ken's hands wandered to Yolei's back, feeling the soft silk under his finer tips, gently massaging her smooth back. Suddenly Ken felt a surprising sensation. "Yolei!" Ken made a hushed whisper as Yolei's hand had wander to his crotch, rubbing it in a circular motion.

Yolei let out a little giggle. Ken had an expression that looked like a deer caught in headlights. "Well I am not sleepy either right now." Yolei pulled down Ken's sweat pants.

"But I thought we agreed..." Ken felt very nervous as his semi erect cock sprang into view.

"I know I know." Yolei rubbed Ken's cock slightly, causing Ken to jump. "But I figured we could go... a bit further."

Yolei grabbed Ken's cock between her slender fingers, and began to pump him up and down, using just enough strength so she wouldn't hurt him but he could really feel it. Yolei learnt just how much force to use. Ken quickly had a raging erection, but his heart was beating a mile a minute. "Yolei, my parents, your parents, our digimon!" Ken looked around in a half panic.

"I am giving you a hand job and all you can think about is my folks?" Yolei looked at Ken in a pretend stern. "Looks like I need to try harder." Yolei's head moved lower.

"What are you....mmmmmm..." Ken's voice seemed to die to a moan as Yolei took just the head of his dick in her mouth, licking it with her tongue as it rested in-between her cheeks. "Yolei....." Ken moaned softly, the pleasure shooting through his body. Any form of protest died then and there as the tension seemed to melt out of his body.

Yolei took her mouth briefly off the throbbing member. "There now you are thinking about me." Yolei ran her hand up and down the shaft as she said this.

"I always do..." Ken panted as Yolei went down on him a second time. Yolei seemed to be a complete natural at this. She cupped his balls with her other hand, tugging and playing with the lightly. She still continued to squeeze the lower half of Ken's cock, but the top four inches of his dick were in Yolei's mouth as her head bobbed back and forth. His dick glistened with saliva as Yolei worked ever sensitive part of his privates at once. "Yolei that feels so good..." Ken tried hard not to moan, leaning back on the couch. "I can't.... hold it..."

"Mmmmm don't...." Yolei gurgled but it was all but unidentifiable from the large penis in her mouth.

Ken figured it out though, and just let himself go. He finished receiving his first blowjob ever cumming into his purple haired girlfriend's mouth. Yolei sputtered a little, but managed to keep from spilling any cum on to the couch or floor. Her chin had a long drop of cum that squeaked out from the sides of her mouth. Yolei sat back as soon as he felt Ken's panting return to normal. She swished the cum a bit in her mouth, as she forced her self to swallow. Yolei did not particularly care for the taste, but she hadn't really thought ahead to bring a napkin or anything to spit the jizz out it. "Now then." Yolei reached on the ground, grabbing the kimono she took off earlier. Yolei slipped on the Kimono around her shoulders, wiping her mouth clean. "Feel better?"

"Much." Ken admitted panting as he quickly shoved his still semi erect penis back into his pants. Yolei tied the kimono in front of her, covering what Ken thought was the greatest sight in the world.

Yolei sat down on the couch next to Ken, putting her arm around his shoulder. "I'm glad. So what are we watching?"

Ken looked back at the television screen, a series of vertical colour stripes on the picture. "Looks like the test pattern."

Yolei smiled as she hugged Ken close, watching the motionless picture. "Just what I wanted to watch."

Ken looked up at Yolei as he snuggled close. "Yeah, me too."

********************************************************************

On Yolei's balcony-

Wormmon looked over to the night sky. He felt horribly bad. Ken was attacked, while he was selfishly on a date. Not only that but it wasn't a date, he all but molested a girl who only wanted to talk. For some reason that made him feel just as bad. Wormmon knew he can't protect Ken every second of everyday, but Snowagumon's reaction did hurt him.

"Penny for your thoughts." Hawkmon landed on the balcony railing, not fearfully of the long drop in the slightest. One of the advantages of flight. "It's about Ken isn't it?"

"Actually no." Wormmon still continued to look up. "I feel guilty for not being there, but Ken doesn't blame me. I know I can't watch him every second. But I also know I will find whoever did this to him."

"Well that's good." Hawkmon looked down from the railing. "Then is it something else?"

"The reason I wasn't at Ken's. I just had a date... or what I thought was a date with Noriko's digimon Snowagumon." Wormmon looked up into the sky.

Hawkmon's eyes rose slightly at this announcement. "What is she like?" Hawkmon stood perched on the railing.

"She is gorgeous, quiet..." Wormmon went on. "And not interested me in the slightest."

"Ouch." Hawkmon replied with a hurtful look on his face.

"I just thought it was my turn. I mean... everyone else seems to get a girl, or at least a date." Wormmon began.

"Don't worry. It's a bit tougher for us digimon who hang out on Earth." Hawkmon began. "I mean, there is only a handful of digimon womon here, and outnumber by the guy digimon. Gomamon's lucky. Him with Joe and Jim get to travel the Digital world on medical research, and he seems to get all the girls."

"Yeah..." Wormmon tried to sound reassured. "What about you? Don't you find it frustrating?"

"What?" Hawkmon replied confused.

"Well it seems that everyone in our groups has at least had a girlfriend or something, but you never seem to be with a girl either." Wormmon looked up at Hawkmon. "Doesn't it bug you?"

"Well, not really... you see... Promise not to think this weird?" Hawkmon landed next to Wormmon.

"Promise." Wormmon agreed.

"I don't find digimon females that attractive..." Hawkmon began.

"Oh... you're.. gay?" Wormmon stuttered, starting to wonder if Hawkmon was hitting on him.

"What?" Hawkmon realized what Wormmon was talking about. "Oh no. I still am after females... just the human kind."

Wormmon blinked twice in surprise, and in relief. "Really?"

"Really." Hawkmon shrugged his shoulders. "I don't know, I just like the way human girls look."

"Have you ever... you know..." Wormmon asked curiously.

"Two different human girls actually..." Hawkmon started. "Last year when me and Yolei went to the Digital World, there was a Flamegatomon with a beautiful tamer girl named Ibuki. The Flamegatomon went after me, and after a few advances, I told her point black I was only interested in human girls."

"Oh. Was she angry?" Wormmon asked.

"She came back with Ibuki and promised me a threesome." Hawkmon blushed. "I couldn't say no."

"Whoa." Wormmon replied very impressed and a touch jealous. "And the other?"

"Err..." Hawkmon clenched his beak painfully. When he had said two human girls, he hadn't really thought that he would reveal them both.

"Come on." Wormmon asked now curiously, intrigued by the idea.

"Promise never to tell Ken." Hawkmon looked really embarrassed.

"Why would I tell Ken..." Wormmon's eyes went wide as dawning comprehension set it. "You don't mean..."

Hawkmon could tell Wormmon figured it out. "It was before Ken and Yolei started dating. I still slept in the same bed as her as Poromon. One night I woke up, and she was... rubbing herself." Hawkmon felt really embarrassed telling this story. "Yolei was embarrassed, but I talked to her. I told her digimon did the same thing and she... asked me to show her. One thing led to another. She asked if she could touch me, if I would touch her...." Hawkmon closed his eyes for a second, remembering Yolei hold his one inch dick as Poromon, masturbating him to an orgasm. Then Poromon licked Yolei's breast, her thighs, her sweet cunt.... "I miss those days, I'll admit. But I am happy for Ken and Yolei."

Wormmon was really feeling hot now. "I had no idea."

"It went on till Ken asked Yolei asked out. That was the last day we had sex." Hawkmon sighed a little disappointed. "I kinda figured it would happen one day. I mean, it was fun sure. And I do love Yolei. But I knew it would never last. I can't have kids with a human, and while that is a benefit when having sex for sex, it doesn't help when you're older. And then there is the whole crossbreeding. A digimon/human relationship."

"Yes." Wormmon nodded knowingly. That had become a hot topic in the last few years. On one hand, some factions considered it bestiality, but digimon were intelligent, only some merely looked like animals. A while back, an Angewomon (not Kari's) married a human male, posing as a human. That sent up a storm of protest, and rights. Wormmon knew that it would be debated for years, but till then, crossbreeding humans and digimon would be social taboo. "Well, if you can get a human girl, I guess there is hope for me."

"Oh definitely." Hawkmon smiled at Wormmon. "Maybe try your Stingmon form, I am sure you'll find some human girl who wants to experiment." Hawkmon winked at Wormmon.

"You are right." Wormmon nodded in agreement. "I'd say go tonight if I wasn't afraid of leaving Ken and Yolei alone."

"True." Hawkmon looked up into the sky. "It does put a bit of a cramp on our social lives, but I would defend them both till my last breath."

"As would I." Wormmon nodded looking into the moonlight. "As would I."

*******************************************************

Back at Noriko's house...

True to form, Armadillomon was having a very intense dream. Snowagumon was licking Mimi's pussy. Snowagumon had a claw in her white lipped cunt as Mimi groaned, playing with her ample breasts. Armadillomon was watching them from a distance to as they made out. Armadillomon wanted to be down there in thick of things, but for some reason, he just stood transfixed on the show. Armadillomon could feel the hormones in his crotch burning. "Uh!" Armadillomon felt the dream shatter around him. "Man..." Armadillomon woke up completely now, letting out a long yawn. Normally he was a sound sleeper, but after what happened to Ken, he couldn't help but be cautious. Of course, the fact he was so turned on, and had a raging erection, didn't help much. (What a dream.... I mean Mimi looks ok, for a human, but Snowagumon... yeah...) Armadillomon looked down between his leg, the yellow head of his prick staring back at him. (Damn... I am at somebody's house, with a deranged stalker, and I am sporting a woody. Man I so want to jerk off.... or have Snowagumon jerk me off better still.) Armadillomon sighed as he concentrated. His dick began to lose its rigidity, and shrink back in his hidden pouch. Most digimon could control their manhoods to an extent, for simple privacy purposes. Though even in sleep, they lost control now and then. (Well I am too wide awake to sleep now, maybe I'll grab a bite to eat. I smell Wasabi. Mmmm I like it hot.) "Whoa...' Armadillomon suddenly shivered as he got out from under his air conditioner. "Man it's cold in here." Armadillomon looked around. "Snowagumon must have turned up the air conditioning." Armadillomon got up, stretching his front paws as he let out a long yawn. "Well I don't want to wake her. I'll just grab a blanket or something while I'm up as well." Armadillomon looked up at Cody, sleeping on the couch. Cody was shivering too, pulling the blanket close to his face. But even in the cold, Armadillomon couldn't help but notice he had a big smile on his face. (Dreams about Noriko I bet. He's sweet on her I can tell. I bet if his mom weren't here, he'd be in bed with her. Course, I wouldn't mind shaking up with Snowagumon there.) Armadillomon smiled as walked over to the linen closet, and opened the door awkwardly with his nose. (Man, they don't build these houses for short quadrupeds.) Armadillomon got on his hind legs, and grabbed a thick comforter with his teeth. Armadillomon took two steps back, pulling the blanket off the shelf.

KER-ASH! Armadillomon's spun on time as he heard something shatter. He readied himself for an attack, but none came. "Huh?' Armadillomon sauntered over to the direction of the sound. A small hand mirror lay on the ground, the face interlaced with cracks, making it look like a hundred Armadillomon’s were looking back at him. "Opps, musta been on top of the quilt thing." Armadillomon picked up the mirror in one front paw. "Handsome fella if I do say so myself." Armadillomon suddenly made his tough face, flattening his ears, and scowling, doing a rather bad movie impression. "You want a piece of me? Well do you? Punk?" Armadillomon turned the mirror around, suddenly seeing a glint of something behind him reflected in the shattered reflection.

"I do."

Armadillomon turned, not quick enough. A glint of metal shown in his eyes, blinding him. He felt something cold run against his neck, before he was shoved back roughly, slamming into coffee table shattering. Armadillomon got up, trying to scream, but he couldn't. Armadillomon felt something warm run down his chest. Armadillomon placed his front paws on his neck, feeling a sickening stream of blood shoot out. Armadillomon's heart race, accelerating the blood flow as he vainly tried to correct the damage done. But Armadillomon's paws began to fail, his eyelids feeling impossible heavy.

'Huh?" Cody was woken up by broken glass and shattering wood. Cody's hand reached to his side, grabbing the sword he had brought with him. It was silly he knew. With Armadillomon here, he had more than enough firepower to take on any intruder. But Cody felt a certain weird comfort, like his grandfather was here with him. Besides, if he did catch whoever hurt Ken and Noriko he would take great pleasure in taking them down. "Armadillomon!" Cody called out. Well on a personal level he wanted the stalker himself, he was smart enough to take his protector with him. "Armadillomon come over here! Someone..." Cody's eyes went wide as he saw Armadillomon stumble out from the hallway crawling on only three paws.

Armadillomon had one paw weakly clamped on his neck, which left a trail of red blood down the hall. "Co... dy..." was all Armadillomon got out before he collapsed on the floor, making a sickening gurgling sound as a combination of blood and spit bubbled from his mouth.

Cody dropped the sword on the ground as total fear over took him. "ARMADILLOMON!!" Cody screamed as he ran to his friend, who lay in a half dead heap on the cold floor. "NOOOOOO!"

*******************************************************************

Back in the Digital World...

"Now then miss..." Gomamon looked up at the plant digimon with a red petal on her head.

"Floramon." Floramon giggled slightly as she crossed her legs slightly. She sat on a cold metal table three feet off the ground, Gomamon looking quite small from this perspective.

"Ah miss Floramon." Gomamon nodded as he looked at his papers. "Now what brings you to my office?"

"Just a physical check up." Floramon giggled again.

"All right then." Gomamon placed the papers down on the floor. They where blank, and not of any concern. Gomamon's concern was fully for his patient. "Now lie on your back."

"Ok." Floramon smiled as she lifted her feet, and lay on the table in a spread eagle position.

"Perfect. Now let's see." Gomamon hopped on to the table with Floramon, struggling for a second as he grabbed the ledge with his flippers, than hoisted himself up with a little grunt. "Let's check for any unusual bumps on your skin." Gomamon took his right flipper and began to rub it along the top of Floramon's right leg.

"Mmm..." Floramon moaned a little as Gomamon massaged her right leg, moving on to the inside. "Oh!" Floramon began to shift at the furry sensation.

"Please miss try and keep still." Gomamon moved his flipper over to Floramon's left leg, repeating the same procedure. "Unless you want me to tie you up."

"Well..." Floramon smiled mischievously as Gomamon moved off her leg and on to her stomach. "Maybe I do."

"Miss Floramon this is a serious medical examination." Gomamon moved his flipper in circles around Floramon's stomach. "My you have a nice tight stomach. You must keep in good shape."

"Why thank you." Floramon smiled as Gomamon moved up, placing his flipper on her chest.

"Now we are going to check your breasts." Gomamon shifted a little closer, so he could use both flippers.

"Mmmmm..." Floramon moaned softly, trying to keep still but still shifting a little.

"I don't feel anything unusual, just nice smooth breasts." Gomamon kept rubbing as he spoke. "But unless your breasts are fully exposed, it is hard to tell." Gomamon began to rub harder now.

"What are you doing then?" Floramon lifted her head slightly, looking at Gomamon rub her chest.

Now, I just need to make sure your breasts are fully stimulated." Gomamon smiled as he bent his head down. "While I am quite skilled with my flippers, this works a touch better." Gomamon gave Floramon's left tit a playful lick

OHHH!" Floramon arched her back.

Nice reaction." Gomamon moved his mouth over to Floramon's right nipple, and repeated the same treatment. "It means you are fully developed, but let's check a bit more to be sure." Gomamon continued to suckle on Floramon's breasts like a newborn.

Mmmm yes I feel it...." Floramon moaned as she shifted awkwardly on the table, as if unable to keep still.

Gomamon took his mouth off Floramon's nipples after several minutes of thorough sucking, but her quickly put both of his flippers on her chest, one on each breast. "No bumps or odd colouring." Gomamon pinched Floramon's nipples lightly. "I don't see anything wrong here." Gomamon removed his claws from Floramon's very satisfied nipples. "But I need to be very thorough, check you in and out."

"What do you mean?" Floramon put a hand on her lips pretending to be ignorant.

"Now turn on your hands and knees." Gomamon ordered. "I need to check other areas besides your breasts."

"Of course doctor." Floramon turned over, getting on her hands and knees. "Like this doctor?" Floramon wiggled her green butt back and forth slightly.

"Perfect." Gomamon answered as he stood up, which was rather difficult for him. "We need to check you all over now, don't we?" Gomamon placed his flippers on Floramon's green ass cheeks.

"Oh of course doctor." Floramon smiled as Gomamon squeezed her butt cheeks.

"Not an ounce of fat." Gomamon squeezed Floramon's ass again. "I must get your work out program.

"You look like you’re in pretty good shape yourself." Floramon smiled as Gomamon finally took his flippers of Gomamon's backside.

"Why thank you." Gomamon smiled as he pointed his claw. "Now to continue your check up. Let's check here..."

Floramon felt something probe at her pussy opening. "Oh!" Floramon gasped as Gomamon touched her most sensitive of areas.

"Now let's see." Gomamon pulled Floramon's pussy opening apart with two claws on the same flipper. Floramon's species of digimon had a completely green cunt, which Gomamon knew well. "Nothing wrong as I can see." Gomamon took a deep breath, and blew into Floramon's exposed cunt.

"OHH!" Floramon felt a wave of pleasure in her.

"And nothing wrong with your feeling." Gomamon smiled a little as he took his other flipper. "Now tell me." Gomamon pointed his claw, and began to shove it an inch into Floramon's cunt. "Do you feel any discomfort, any pain?"

"Oh no!" Floramon moaned as Gomamon twisted his hard claw left and right, working the claw in deeper. "It feels great!"

"That's good." Gomamon worked the claw completely into the Floramon's twat, the fur on his flippers rubbing her pussy lips. "What about..." Gomamon took his other flipper and spit on the end of the claw. Gomamon then placed the claw at Floramon's asshole. "Here?" Gomamon began to work the claw slowly in.

"Oh!" Floramon gasped her eyes lighting up. "What are you doing?"

"Just checking." Gomamon smiled as he continued to move his other flipper in and out of her cunt rapidly. "Is it painful?" Gomamon asked as he worked an inch of the claw up her virgin asshole.

"No... It feels weird..." Floramon shuddered. "I've never felt anything like it...." Floramon began to pant as both of her love holes were filled with Gomamon's flipper claws. "It makes me...." Floramon began to pant as Gomamon managed to get three inches of his claw up her asshole. "It makes me want to.... Uuhhhhhhh...." Floramon came as Gomamon claw fucked her to an orgasm. "Ohhh...." Floramon panted as Gomamon slowed down after a minute. "

Gomamon smiled as he let his claws rest in Floramon for a minute. "Hmmmm..." Gomamon removed his wet claws from her cunt and asshole.

Floramon turned on her butt, her pussy hole gaping. "Something wrong doctor?" Floramon panted, rubbing her ass on the table as she got used to the feeling of no longer having Gomamon's claw in her.

"It just you seemed to have an orgasm from a routine medical examine." Gomamon pretended to look concern.

"Is that... bad?" Floramon asked looked into Gomamon's eyes.

"It may be. But I need to check a few more things." Gomamon looked at Floramon's pretty yellow mouth. "Open your mouth and say ahhh...."

Floramon complied opening her mouth as wide as possible and sticking out her thin tongue. "Aaahhhhhhh...."

Gomamon looked around the table. "Hmm where is it...." Gomamon looked a little perturbed. Floramon sat there, her mouth still wide open. "Oh dear me, I forgot my tongue depressor..." Gomamon looked around in mock surprise.

"Can we use one of your claws maybe?" Floramon asked, licking her lips.

"After where I had them? That would be unhygienic.” Gomamon looked at the claws on the end of his flippers, glistening wet with Floramon's body juices.

"Well you must have something long and hard you can use to probe my mouth." Floramon asked playfully.

"Well I have an idea, if you don't mind." Gomamon sat half up awkwardly. A red dick protruded from its hidden pouch, which stood out brightly against his white fur.

Floramon looked down at the erect dick. "Is this what doctors normally do?"

"Well no, but you may have a rare case, and believe it or not, this is this standard test." Gomamon let out a little smirk, but Floramon pretended not to notice.

"Well you are the doctor." Floramon smiled softly. "So what should I do?"

Gomamon gestured with his left flipper. "Just lie flat on your back." Gomamon smiled as Floramon instantly complied, lying with her legs slightly apart and her mouth wide open. It was a sight of beauty for Gomamon. "Perfect." Gomamon moved to the side, and quickly climbed up on Floramon's head, his seal prick up against her mouth. "Now be careful, that is my favourite tongue depressor."

"I won't bite it in half." Floramon promised as she opened her lips, taking the cock inside her mouth.

"Mmm yeah." Gomamon moaned as he rested his entire body on Floramon's face, his flippers on the table holding him upright. "Now rub your tongue up and all around the shaft, let me feel if there are any bumps or anything."

"MMm hmmm." Floramon affirmatively groaned as she began to lick the dick inside her mouth.

"Uh.... I feel... no bumps..." Gomamon grunted as if he could tell. "But keep going... I want to make sure..." Gomamon moaned in pleasure.

"Mmmm...." Floramon moaned yet again and agreement as Gomamon face fucked her. Gomamon began to buck his hips as Floramon sucked his cock. Floramon ran one of her hands up and down Gomamon's back, all the way to the base of his beck to the white tail. The other green hand was in-between her legs, rubbing her clit as she continued to blow the seal.

Gomamon was groaning loudly, Floramon quickly bringing him to an orgasm. "UHHHH!" Gomamon came hard into Floramon's mouth, shooting the sticky fluid in between her cheeks.

"Mmm..." Floramon gurgled a little, keeping all of the cum inside her mouth as Gomamon slid his satisfied shaft out from her lips.

"You have a powerful mouth." Gomamon panted as he slid off her face, his cock still out of its protective pouch, anticipating more of the same.

Floramon suddenly swallowed. "Thank you." Floramon licked her lips, enjoying the taste of Gomamon on her mouth.

Gomamon suddenly began to look over Floramon. "I noticed you swallowed all my cum." Gomamon observed about Floramon. "Any reason why?"

"I... don't know doctor." Floramon acted all confused and scared. "I just thought I had to."

"And you were rubbing yourself to?" Gomamon looked between Floramon's legs. "In fact you still are."

Floramon snatched her green hand from her cunt, her pussy wide and exposed. "I don't know why doctor, I just needed to....."

"I see.... you climax from a simple doctor's examine. You have a craving for cum.... You can't stop masturbating...." Gomamon began to count off the symptoms of Floramon's diseases on his claws.

"Oh my, what do I have doctor?" Floramon half sat up.

"I see you have tremendous build up of hormones." Gomamon replied with his best possible straight face.

"Oh my." Floramon placed a leafy hand on her mouth. "Is it serious?"

"Not if we take care of it right away." Gomamon replied.

"What's the treatment?" Floramon's asked trying to sound like she was worried, but let out a little giggle in spite of herself.

"You need to be fucked as soon and as quickly as possible." Gomamon replied letting out a little snicker. "Now do you have a boy friend or husband that can do that for you?"

"Why no I don't.... can I not use a dildo or my hand?" Floramon asked, already knowing the answer.

"I wouldn't recommended it, you need a good screw by a male. It's the only sure fire cure." Gomamon tried to keep his cool, but that line sounded so ridiculous, no female would ever buy it.

"But then what will I do?" Floramon pretended to look concerned.

"Well in the interest of your health, I would be happy to administer the cure." Gomamon smiled. "For purely health purposes."

"Oh thank you doctor!" Floramon smiled as Gomamon climbed on top of her. Floramon loved the way his fur felt against her green skin.

"Now you may feel a sudden wave of pleasure." Gomamon pressed his erect seal prick up against Floramon's cunt lips, teasing her slightly.

"Oh please, cure me!" Floramon moaned as she was stimulated in all the right places.

"Anything to help a patient." Gomamon smiled as eh shoved his hips forward, sliding in easily into Floramon's wet count.

"Thank you doctor!" Floramon gasped as the warm seal prick filled her insides. "Oh doctor!" Floramon grunted as Gomamon rammed into her hard. Gomamon began to pump in and out, holding on to Floramon shoulders with his flippers. "Oh Gomamon..." Floramon panted as she ran her hands over Gomamon's furry back. "You are... so good at this..."

"Years of... doctoring." Gomamon smiled as he kissed Floramon on her mouth, the two of them starting to French one another as they continued to fuck. It was difficult, Gomamon’s rapid humping rocked them all over, there' tongues desperately trying to hold on to their partners.

"You are a... great doctor..." Floramon panted as her insides were penetrated again and again.

"Mmm and you are a great patient." Gomamon placed his face in Floramon's neck and began to nibble her neck.

"Oh Gomamon... doctor!" Floramon panted as Gomamon moved faster. Floramon loved the arm dick in her, feeling against her vaginal walls. "I can feel it again!" Floramon began to pant, wrapping her arms around the back of Gomamon's neck. "I'm cumming!" Floramon announced as she came, the hot seal dick still burrowing her insides.

Gomamon felt the young rookie climax underneath him. "Yeah Floramon..." Gomamon panted as he bucked his hips rapidly. "Here comes your medicine!" Gomamon arched his head back and...

"Gomamon!" Joe burst into the hut, stopping low so he could make it in.

"GAHHH!" Gomamon screamed at the sudden intrusion right at the height of his climax.

"WHA?" Floramon tried to sit up suddenly, but Gomamon was still inside her tightly, pumping in his seed.

"Whoa!" Gomamon lost his balance he fell half to the right side. Gomamon tried to steady himself by grabbing Floramon's shoulders. But she wasn't heavy enough to stop Gomamon's inevitable fall, and the two rolled over the side away from Joe.

"Ouff!" Floramon grunted as Gomamon landed on top of her.

"Uhhh..." Gomamon moaned as his dick flopped out of Floramon's cunt, spewing some stray semen around. Gomamon shook his head. "What the..."

"Gomamon!" Joe shouted again.

Gomamon poked his head out from behind the table. "Damn it Joe! KNOCK!!"

"Gomamon, come on we need to go!" Joe took three steps towards the table.

"Hey wait, I am not decent!" Gomamon ducked his head back under, Floramon sliding out from under him.

"Well hurry up!" Joe ordered as he stood there. "I don't have time for your doctor fantasy!"

"What on earth is so blasted important?!" Gomamon shoved his dick back in the hidden fur pouch, a little too hastily since it was still half hard. Gomamon grimaced a little in pain, but choked it down. He gave Floramon a quick kiss on her forehead as he climbed out from behind the table.

"It's Armadillomon." Joe replied seriously. "He's near death."

********************************************************************

Cody waited in the waiting room of the hospital. This was a special hospital, so far one of the only kind in the world, dealt to deal with digimon injuries. Digimon where unlike humans, but the hard thing was they were different from one another. A machine digimon like Andromon would need a mechanic if it were badly injured, while a Floramon would be better off with a botanist. Different immune systems, blood types, reaction to medications, trying to document all this information would cower even the most dedicated analysis. And to make matters worse, Armadillomon was a rare digimon type. No medical evidence was ever documented on him, so the doctors where flying blind. Which is why they called the foremost expert in Digimon medical expertise, the pioneer Joe Kido.

The waiting room had a black cloud floating inside. Cody's mother was there, sitting next to Cody. Cody had a look of complete worry on his face. Gomamon laid on Cody's lap. Joe was inside with Armadillomon and two other doctors, surgeons. An animal surgeon was there as well. Joe found that veterinarians tended to help immensely with digimon surgeries. Doctors who operated on humans where never prepared for surgery on a digimon. They might find two stomachs, three hearts, and no liver. A veterinarian though knows that every animal is different. While it is unfair to compare a sentient digimon to a mere dog or horse, the theory still held. Joe had already gotten a reputation as the foremost expert in digimon health, even at his relatively young age. Gomamon was Joe's partner of course, but useless to help him now. What he best served was as a comfort to Cody. Cody had a hand resting on his head rubbing his mohawk nervously. Normally Gomamon would find being petted like a house cat humiliating, but even he knew that just a warm body can be comforting, and right now, Cody needed comfort.

Gomamon had almost fallen asleep in Cody's lap as the doors to the emergency room. "Joe!" Cody stood up suddenly.

"Uh!" Gomamon slid off, forgotten about. Gomamon twisted in mid air though, landing on his stomach on the hospital floor.

Cody didn't even notice Gomamon. He had only one concern right now. "Armadillomon?"

Joe looked at the young boy. "It was difficult. The injuries were easy enough to work on, but the huge blood loss, and we didn't know what we could use as a transfusion." Joe began to explain. "But we ran a cross, and luckily human plasma...."

"Joe!" Gomamon barked on the ground at his Digidestined's rant.

Joe realized he was rambling. "He's going to be all right." Joe Kido let out a small smile. "He's out of the woods, but he's weak. He needed twenty-four stitches across his neck, and his major neck artery was sliced." Joe made a mental note of that; Armadillomon only had one major carotid neck artery right down the centre of the neck, compared to humans who have two. Joe knew that he would need to dedicate the better portion of the night documented what he learned today.

"Oh thank god." Cody slumped back in his chair, feeling an overwhelming sense of relief. Cody's mother smiled as well.

"He's sleeping right now, still under the effect of the anaesthetic." Joe went on. "We were unsure how much we needed to put him under, and I figure we may have overdone it slightly. Nothing serious, but he will be out of it for a while." Joe looked at his charts. Like most digimon surgeries, he would have to document this thoroughly, so the next this happened, the doctors would be better prepared. (Next time...) Joe thought cringing at those words.

"You should get back to your work." Cody bowed to Joe. "I thank you for coming to my email that quickly. I can open another digigate..."

"Not on your life." Gomamon shook his head. "We ain't going anywhere. Armadillomon's my pal. Anyone messes with him, messes with me."

"As Gomamon said." Joe gave Gomamon a smirk. "I think we are needed here. Armadillomon may develop complications, though I doubt it. Digimon heal quickly." Joe didn't want to worry Cody anymore than he already is he. "My brother is still in the Digital World, and perfectly capable of handling anything that should arise. Besides, I want to catch whoever this sick freak is."

Cody looked up at Joe, who was still a bit taller than him. "Thank you Joe."

"Now, I've arrange for an ambulance to take Armadillomon to my house." Joe went on. "I don't want to leave him here, or bring him to your apartment, in case that intruder decides to go there and finish what he started at Noriko's home." Joe knew moving a patient was risky, but he decided this was the best course of action. Most digimon on the brink of death would heal quick enough to be moved in a few hours, and right now Joe wanted to get Armadillomon to a secure location.

"And I want to be there in case he does, so I can rip of his arms, tentacles, or whatever he may have for appendages." Gomamon let out a little growl, not sounding very furious, but both Cody and Joe knew he was tougher than he looked.

"Thanks Joe... but I am worried about Noriko. I don't think she should be left alone. Maybe you should watch her instead." Cody went on. "But... Armadillomon is injured... are any of the other digidestined free?"

Joe thought for a second. TK was writing his book, but File Island had but a single Digiport. TK even left his communicator behind, wanting total privacy for a week to write. Contacting him would be very difficult. Davis was just in Tokyo with his noodle cart, but Joe didn't want to rip Davis away from his fledgling business. Joe went down the list. Matt's farewell band tour along with Sora. Izzy and Mimi in America. Ken had gone through enough, and Yolei was with him. Joe didn't want to rip anyone else away from their lives, and just give the stalker another target. "Actually I know what to do..."

****************************************************

"Well look who decided to join us." The teacher looked at Noriko as she entered the classroom.

All eyes turned to Noriko, along with the usual whispers. "I am so sorry Sensi." Noriko bowed. "There are problems..." Noriko had missed four classes. Armadillomon had nearly been killed; Cody was in hysterics. But Noriko couldn’t stay in that house any longer. She didn’t want to be alone in her thoughts.

"I've heard that one before." The balding teacher pushed up his thin spectacles from his overly large nose. "You will stay after school and clean all the backboards, is that understood?"

"Yes Sensi." Norio bowed again.

"Now will we have another miracle, and you actually have your homework done?" The teacher clasped his hands together, raising his eyebrows.

"Yes Sensi." Noriko unzipped her backpack. The homework was just a quick job, Noriko had so much on her mind, she just couldn’t concentrate. "I have it right here Sensi..." Noriko reached into her backpack, digging around looking for the paper. "OW!" Noriko suddenly pulled her hand back, a thin cut across her middle finger.

"Noriko, are you all right?" The teacher got up, seeing Noriko place her finger in her mouth.

Noriko sucked her finger, tasting her own blood as she eased the pain. Then her eyes looked down into the backpack, to see what had cut her. Noriko's face went pale. "Ahh...” The finger slipped from her mouth, the pain gone as her breath left her.

"Noriko!" The teacher shouted seeing Noriko begin to shake.

"I... I need to go!” Noriko didn't wait for permission to leave, running out of the classroom, half stumbling as she slammed the door shut. Noriko slammed into another student named Ryo as she ran down the hall. Ryo called out freak as Noriko ran buy, not even seeing if Ryo was all right or not. Noriko just needed to escape.

The young girl tore through the front doors panting. "Huh huh." Noriko ran down the front steps, and turned a corner, her adrenaline dying down. (I must be imagining things. It's just my metal ruler... I am sure it is....) Noriko looked back into her open backpack. "Oh dear god." Noriko shivered. She reached into her backpack, when her entire hand suddenly turned black, sparking with dark energy. "NO!" Noriko screamed as she flung her backpack away. Noriko turned, and ran, terrified. Her backpack landed on the street, which was promptly run over. The backpack was thrown to the sidewalk, splitting open, spewing ravaged textbooks, ripped papers, and one bloody knife.

***************************************************

Noriko arrived home in the afternoon. She spent the rest of the day in the park in the bushes, her knees buried in her chest as she chanted to herself to keep cool. She was a wreck when she got home, but her parents didn't notice. They seemed troubled, not to mention they had a guess, a talk man with rim glasses. The man smiled as Noriko entered the kitchen where Joe was having a cup of tea.

Joe stood up as Noriko came in. "Hello Noriko." Joe held out his hand. "Do you remember me?'

"Yes Joe." Noriko chose to bow to her elder. "Why are you here?"

"I was just starting to talk with your folks." Joe took a sip of tea before continuing. He decided to get to the pint. "With your parents permission of course, I'd like her to come with me." Joe looked over at Noriko's parents.

"Why?" Noriko's mother asked concerned.

"It's the freak who is after you digidestined, isn't it?" Noriko's mother scowled a little. "The one who hurt Armadillomon?"

"Yes." Joe went straight to the truth. "Cody's digimon Armadillomon was nearly killed. We managed to stabilize him, but it was close."

"Oh dear god." Noriko's father shook his head. "How is he now?"

"He needed twenty-four stitches on his neck from the knife wound." Joe replied solemnly. "His major neck artery was nicked causing massive blood loss. Luckily he is a tough fellow."

Noriko was pale, and stumbled. "My god..."

"He'll be fine." Gomamon was on the ground at Joe's feet. "But Noriko was targeted first for some reason." Gomamon looked over to Snowagumon who showed up in front of Noriko's feet. "You may be next..." Gomamon gave Snowagumon a little half smiled

Noriko bent down, hugging Snowagumon. "I won't let anything hurt you." (Even me...)

"And neither will we." Gomamon replied confidently. "Which is why we'd like Noriko and Snowagumon to come stay with us, till we find who is behind this."

"You sure?" Noriko's mother looked down at Gomamon. "I mean, no offence, but what could you do against a burglar?"

"Well besides the fact I took out single handily a sixty-foot sea snake, a giant shelled creature, a flying unicorn that shoots out blast of energy, and a six story tall praying mantis... and not including the battles with everything from all powerful metal dinosaurs to giant undead vampires...." Gomamon smiled and posed. "I am just too cute hurt."

"Oy." Joe shook his head. "But seriously, Gomamon here can digivolve to a five hundred kilogram sea mammal called Ikkakumon that can shoot missiles from his head. Even if this guy is driving a tank, Gomamon here can handle it."

"Whoa." Noriko's dad looked down at the small furry creature, hardly bigger than a puppy. "Can you do that now?"

"Yeah, but I would make a mess of the house." Gomamon smirked. "I'm the brawn of the group and Joe is..." Gomamon looked up at Joe. "The guy with glasses."

"Cute." Joe looked back at Noriko. "So I would like you to stay at my house with Cody. I have a feeling whoever is doing this will not stop, and I don't want to leave anyone unprotected. I would also like you two to stay at a friend’s place as well. The less targets the better."

"Cody is at your house?" Noriko looked up.

"Yes with Armadillomon. I have discovered digimon heal better around friends, better than any hospital room. Besides, the stalker may have targeted Armadillomon in the hospital room. Only you will know Noriko is at my house." Joe nodded at Noriko's parents. "So it is the safest place in the city with Gomamon protecting it.

***********************************************************

"Here you go buddy." Cody bent over Armadillomon, moving the straw to his yellow lips. It pained Cody to see Armadillomon like this. Armadillomon was always so strong, and now he couldn't even talk. Cody brought his grandfather's sword with him, feeling it was up for him to protect Armadillomon now.

Armadillomon took a sip of the thick soup Joe and Gomamon made. Joe had put Cody on a liquid diet until his neck healed. "How is the soup you guys?" Joe asked from the head of the Japanese table. These tables were ideal since they where the perfect height for digimon like Gomamon and Snowagumon. Joe was honestly surprised at how quick Armadillomon recovered. Major surgery like that would leave a human bed ridden for over a week. Armadillomon was up and on food in under a day.

Snowagumon took a deep breath and exhaled on her bowl of soup. The soup became frigid, and the temperature in the room dropped a degree. "Great, thank you Joe." Snowagumon took another sip of the ice cold soup.

"Yes thank you for inviting us into your home." Noriko bowed her head over her empty bowl of soup.

"Hey no problem." Gomamon was on his third bowl. The soup just wasn't filling him up, and he craved something more substantial like fish and rice. But this was for Armadillomon. It would not be fair to eat in front of Armadillomon when he couldn't. "We hardly ever get guests."

"Yes, we are in the Digital World a lot, this place is hardly ever used." Joe nodded as she stood up, picking up his empty bowl.

"So how are we going to handle the sleeping arrangements?" Cody asked as he handed Joe his own empty bowl. "I know you have your bed and Gomamon's. I figured Noriko could take the couch and I could fix Armadillomon..."

"Actually, me and Gomamon are going to stand watch for a bit." Joe said across from the table. "So Noriko can have my bed."

"We are?" Gomamon looked up from his soup in surprise. Joe shot him a glare. "I mean we are."

"Joe you’re a big important Digimon doctor now." Cody looked across from the table.

"Well I am not officially a doctor. I just do a lot of field research." Joe answered as he walked to the kitchen.

"But you need rest..." Noriko began to say.

"No you and Cody need rest. You all have gone through too much. Especially Armadillomon." Gomamon looked at Armadillomon and nodded. "I don't want you guys up half the night worrying about that freak. Which is why yours truly will be guarding the house."

"So you guys can sleep where you want." Joe began to wash the dishes, Gomamon leaping on the counter to help dry.

"And don't worry." Gomamon dried one of the bowls. "There's nothing around here I can't handle."

**********************************************

It was late at night. Cody had taken the couch, and made up a bed for Armadillomon. Armadillomon curled in a ball and closed his eyes. Just moving about the last hour had completely drained him. Armadillomon was out of it, the operation, drugs, and stress had zonked him out. It was not a pleasant sleep, but Armadillomon was dead to the world no less. Cody wasn't sleeping well, hearing Armadillomon breathing with a slight wheeze. Cody finally woke up in the middle of the night. (Brrr...) Cody looked at his feet, which stuck out from under the covers. (Man my feet are like ice...) Cody brought his feet up under the covers and began to rub them.

CLUNK! Cody's heard something thud by the window. Cody jumped off the couch, grabbing his grandfather's sword he brought with him. "Noriko?"

"Cody!" Noriko turned from the window.

"What are you doing?" Cody dropped the sword back on the couch.

Noriko looked at the window, one leg swung over the side. She tried to think of lame excuse how about she just want some air, and was doing stretching exercises, but realized Cody would not buy that. "I... was running away."

"What?" Cody eyes went wide. "Why?"

"Don't you see? Everybody around me gets hurt." Noriko sniffled, wiping her moist eyes.

"Which should be even more reason for you not to go!' Cody moved up to the windowsill. Noriko tried to move, but Cody just grabbed her arm firmly.

"No Cody let me go!" Noriko still had one leg over the sill.

"No!" Cody held tightly to Noriko's arm. "I care about you to much to let you get hurt!"

Noriko stopped for a second. "Cody... I...."

"I won't let anyone hurt you. I stake my life on it." Cody replied with grim determination.

"It's not me I am worried about. It's my friends, my family... you." Noriko turned her head away. "I care for you Cody. Which is why I won't let you get hurt trying to protect me!" Noriko tried to go out the window.

"Let me decide that!" Cody held on to Noriko’s arm tight.

Noriko tried to pull her arm free. "Cody!" Noriko shouted as she pulled harder, but Cody was a bit stronger, plus had better leverage. Noriko slipped from the windowsill landing on top of Cody.

"Ouf!" Noriko landed heavily on top of Cody, Cody grunting as Noriko accidentally elbowed him in the stomach. Noriko tried to get up, but Cody wrapped his hands around her back. "Let go of me!" Noriko looked up into Cody's face.

"I will never let you go!" Cody firmly replied as he looked down. Both of their struggles seemed to cease. They stood on top of one another, breathing heavily, tired, worn.

Cody was suddenly overcome with an unstoppable urge as he moved his head forward fast, the same time with Noriko. "Mmm!" Cody began to kiss Noriko passionately, running his hands through her short brown hair.

Noriko returned the kiss with passion, her tongue slipping into Cody's mouth. "Mmmmmm..." Noriko moaned as she Frenched Cody hard, rubbing her hands all over his back as they made out. Cody's hands trailed all over her own back, Noriko easily able to feel the hands through her thin pyjamas. Then she felt the hands drift downwards, rubbing her stomach and hips where the skin was exposed. Cody's hands then began to move upwards, Noriko making no effort to stop Cody. In fact, this is what she wanted now more than anything. "Oh Cody..." Noriko moaned as he slipped a hand under her shirt.

Cody could feel the developing bumps on her chest, feeling the nipples. Noriko moaned slightly, but was muffled underneath the French kiss. Cody continued with the kiss enjoying the feel of Noriko's wet tongue in his mouth. Noriko moved her head forward , half sitting up as she now hugged Cody, her shirt riding up on her. Noriko broke this kiss now, getting a little bit of a sigh from Cody. But Noriko just smiled, and to Cody's delight, Noriko finished removing her shirt. Cody looked at the budding girl, feeling the sexual urge grow inside him. The two began to kiss again, this time Cody falling backwards, Noriko on top as they rolled on the floor of Joe's house.
Noriko lay on top of Cody, enjoying his feel underneath him. She could feel something poking out into her inner thigh, knowing what it is. Noriko's heart was racing. She had never felt so close, and so happy right now. She wanted nothing more than to be with Cody, completely. Noriko sat up, stopping the kiss. Cody lay on the ground, his mouth half open as he panted. Noriko ran her hands down Cody's chest, and moving them down her stomach, feeling his strong muscles. When she got to bottom Cody's stomach, she slipped them underneath the end of Cody's shirt, feeling his smooth skin . She then pulled his shirt of slowly, admiring the physical specimen as Cody lifted his arms so the shirt can slide over his neck. Now they both where bare from the waist up, Noriko straddling Cody. Noriko began to rub her hands over Cody's chest again, to which Cody moaned slightly. Noriko then started squeezing her hips rhythmically, getting a moan of pleasure from Cody as she massaged his cock with her hips. Cody's crotch rubbing against her was causing her own pussy to tingle, wanting more. Cody to felt like this was just the beginning, which more loomed over the horizon for both of them. Cody wrapped his hands around Noriko's hips, and began to pump his hips into her crotch once. Noriko groaned in agreement.

“Ohhhhh Cody…” Noriko moaned as Cody began to pull her off his hips. Her hands moved down from Cody’s chest as she slid on to the floor between his spread legs.

Cody took a deep breath as Noriko’s hands reached his belt loop. His heart was racing a mile a minute as the next big step came. Cody's face flushed red as Noriko undid the rope around his pyjama bottoms, and slid the pants downwards, taking his boxers with them. Cody wiggled his feet, sliding the underwear and pants off completely. His hard and erect dick was now in view, exposed for the first tie ever. Cody was still blushing, but Noriko was blushing as well. She had never done anything like this before, she had never even kissed a boy till Cody a couple days ago. She had only heard about it in those sex education classes in school. Now for the first time, Noriko actually got so do what she had only dreamt about. Noriko placed her palm on Cody’s cock, and squeezed it lightly.

“Mmmmm… Noriko…” Cody placed his hands on Noriko’s chest as he lay back on the floor. Cody's hormones were raging as Noriko began to pump him. She did it awkwardly at first, as if afraid to hurt him. But after a few positive groans from Cody, she became a bit more daring, squeezing a touch harder so Cody could really feel the pleasure.

Noriko moved on top of Cody, and began kissing him as she jerked him off at the same time. With her one free hand, she stated to undo her own pants Being wool pyjamas they came off quite easily, slipping down her slim hips. Cody reached behind Noriko as the pants began to slide down. Cody helped to take them off, and Noriko threw them to the side. Cody quickly moved back up, feeling her smooth hips as he did so Noriko moaned softly as Cody touched her knees, then her hips. There wasn't a single mark on the skin, her legs looked and felt like that a porcelain doll may have. Cody 's hand reached her butt, still covered by a pair of thin yellow panties. Noriko giggled and moaned, but she still rubbed Cody's cock. Cody rubbed her ass cheeks a few times, just preparing for the next step, working up the courage. He finally placed his hands under her yellow panties elastic, feeling the skin under his fingertips. Noriko moaned slightly as he Cody rubbed her perfectly smooth as a few times, before he continued removing the panties, until they too were off down her legs, kicked off to join the small pile of clothes. Both Cody and Noriko were totally naked, for the first time ever in front of another person.

Cody's heart was going a mile a minute, Noriko was just too beautiful, too perfect. Cody held his breath as Noriko raised her self slightly up on her knees. He couldn’t take his eyes off her body, not a single freckle or moles seemed to blemish her skin. Noriko still had Cody’s hard dick in her hand, and positioned her self so she was straddling right above the dick. Cody was speechless, waiting in anticipation for the next moment. Slowly, almost agonizingly slow, Noriko lowered herself. Cody gasped as his the rip of his dick pressed between her pussy lips. Noriko paused just for a second, as if wanting the moment of losing of virginity to last forever. But she couldn't wait any longer, longing to feel Cody inside her. She continued her decent, the penis slipping into her virgin pussy hole. Cody's felt the tight girl surround his dick. “Noriko…” Cody moaned Noriko's name as his dick was swallowed up by the young girl's cunt..

Noriko squeaked as Cody fully entered her, feeling some slight pain as Cody broke her cherry. Cody wasn’t grotesquely huge, though he was a fair size especially for a virgin like Noriko. her cunt bled only a bit, Noriko wincing slightly at the tenderness. The pain only lasted for a fraction of a second, as Cody’s entire length was in her. Noriko loved the feeling, sharing one another's warmth. “Cody....” Noriko groaned as she straddled Cody’s hard dick, her virginity gone lost to the young boy you was underneath her right now.

Noriko began to move up and down, fuelled by instinct. Noriko was extremely tight, though Cody had no frame reference. “Noriko.....” Cody began to moan his lover's name as he started to thrust his hips up. “You feel....” Cody tried to talk, but the feeling in his body was overpowering. Only grunts and moans came out of his lips.

“I know...” Noriko panted in as she slammed down harder and harder, moving as fast as he could. Noriko held her head high, feeling the most intense ecstasy she ever felt in her entire life. And just when she thought the pleasure could not get any better, it was like the floodgates were let loose. Noriko let out a loud moan, forgetting that Snowagumon and Armadillomon were near by. Her body shook as she had her first orgasm ever, sexual enjoyment overflowing every fibre of her being. "Cody!" Noriko cried as she came.

“Noriko!” Cody grabbed Noriko’s ass with his hands and fucked up hard as he could. Cody came a split second later. His own orgasm was every bit as intense as Noriko's was, both climaxes seeming to heighten their partners. Noriko panted softly as Cody slowly humped her as the long zenith died down, both of them not wanting it to die. "Cody..." Noriko moaned once last time as she finally finished finishing as Cody slid out of her cunt, spunk dripping from the pussy hole.

Cody half sat up as Noriko placed her head against his shoulder. “Noriko…” He moaned softly, rubbing Noriko’s hair, feeling the silky smooth strands between his fingers.

Noriko took a deep breath, basking in the afterglow. She looked up into Cody's eyes, and smiled softly. “Thank you Cody..." Noriko kissed Cody lightly on the cheek. "I don't know what I'd do without you..."

Cody propped himself up against the wall, feeling the naked girl against his own body. Armadillomon and Snowagumon could walk in at any second. Joe and Gomamon were right outside. He should be worried about being caught. But right now, Cody didn't care. "I will never let you go..." Cody smiled as he brushed Noriko's hair. "Never."

What the pair didn't realize is they had an audience. Snowagumon had heard Noriko and Cody shouts of course, and she had stayed at a respectful distance. Snowagumon had learnt how to be quiet, so Cody and Noriko could not even hear her. Snowagumon watched the two fight, fall, and make love. Snowagumon smiled. She was not turned on by his display, she did not care about romantic relationships. But she did care about what was happening to Noriko. Noriko, for the first time in five years, was truly happy. Snowagumon could feel the years of sadness melt away, and could see even in the dark that Noriko was looking forward to a brighter tomorrow. Snowagumon let a smile creep over her face. "Perfect." Snowagumon smiled as she left the two snuggling on the floor.

******************************************************

"I bet they are sound asleep in their nice warm beds..." Gomamon grumbled as he sat under the park bench, flicking stones across the grass. "No, our nice warm beds...."

"Oh quit your whining." Joe leaned back on the park bench, letting out a long yawn.

"Don't start that." Gomamon replied as he sat under the bench.

"Why not?" Joe rubbed his eyes under his glasses.

"Because it's putting me to sleep." Gomamon replied as he scratched in the dirt. "Remind why are we here again?"

"Because I don't like this. Someone is deliberately targeting us. Not to hurt, but to torment." Joe replied taking another swing from his thermos of coffee. Not enough milk, but it was strong. "So we are going to catch them sneaking in."

"Great plan." Gomamon replied as he stifled a yawn himself. "But how come Cody gets to stay inside out house and we get to freeze half to death?"

"Because he's been through enough. Him, Ken, Noriko and Yolei." Joe went on as he replaced the lid to the thermos. "Besides, I want to get this over with before whoever does this targets us next. I don't feel like waking up to a vat of pig's blood dumped on my bed." Joe reached down, and rubbed Gomamon's mohawk. "Or someone hurting my pal."

"Good point." Gomamon snickered a little. "Still, I would rather be in the house. In a warm bed. Next to Snowagumon. No... on top of Snowagumon"

"Aren't you seeing a Floramon in that village we were just at in the Digital World?" Joe asked.

"Yeah, but she ain't here now is she?" Gomamon looked straight up. "Besides, you walked in on the middle of me."

"Oh come on now, you knew I had to move quick." Joe replied though now Joe had to stifle a chuckle from the look of horror on Gomamon's face when he walked in on the couple.

"I know. I hope Armadillomon appreciates this." Gomamon let out a sigh. "Leaving a beautiful Floramon naked on the floor like that."

"Gomamon... Floramon all look the same, and they are always naked." Joe looked down at his pal.

"What? Oh come on, that Floramon looked by far the best." Gomamon arched his head up. "You're just jealous cause all human girls look so much a like. She's mine."

"Dully noted." Joe shook his head. "Hopefully we'll be back in the Digital World shortly and you can continue where you left off... Doctor Gomamon." Joe smirked.

"Hey!" Gomamon snapped. "No mention of that!!"

"Sure thing Doctor." Joe began to laugh when he heard something. "What's that?"

Gomamon's ears perked up. Gomamon had very acute hearing. "Someone's calling for help?"

"Look!" Joe pointed down the river. Joe could just see a darkened body shape that was floating down river.

"I got it!" Gomamon dove into the river, Joe running up the bank as fast as he could.

***************************************************

Armadillomon was deep in sleep, the painkillers doing a massive number on him. The throbbing pain kept him from sleeping, while the painkillers were keeping him awake. Armadillomon turned off his side, and stretched his head out in his sleep. "MMm!" Armadillomon felt the stitches pull, sending a jolt through his neck, waking him from his medicated half slumber. (Ah it's the middle of the night... I need some sleep...) Armadillomon quickly tired to fall back to sleep, but his neck burned the medication half worn off, forcing him to be in a sort of half sleep, his mind wanting to rest, but his body preventing him. Exhaling caused a tiny jolt of pain, not enough to be truly painful, but enough to keep him from sleeping soundly. "Mm..." Armadillomon wanted to scratch at his stitches under his bandages, but Joe warned him strongly not to. (And he said that he'd put a plastic cone around my head if he caught me.) Armadillomon smacked his lips, his mouth dry. (I am so thirsty...) Joe had warned Armadillomon that due to the massive blood loss, he would need to replenish his fluids quite often. Armadillomon smacked his lips a few more times, trying to ignore the dry mouth, but he needed to get up. (Should I go get Cody?) Armadillomon looked up to Cody's bed. Cody was dead asleep, wearing only his blue striped pyjama bottoms. (Didn’t he have on his top?) Armadillomon thought for a second, but quickly dismissed it to the drugs and stress. (I do need some help... but he's done enough for me. I have to learn how to take care of myself.) Armadillomon got up, stretching his sore muscles, wishing his digimon healing factor would work a bit quicker. Armadillomon weakly walked to the kitchen, even that small effort tiring him. (Maybe I should have waken someone.) Armadillomon looked up to the sink, which now seemed impossibly high. "Mmm..." Armadillomon groaned as he looked around. A kitchen chair was there, which would serve as a stepping stool. Armadillomon walked over to the chair, and grabbed the leg with his front paws. Armadillomon pulled, and was surprised that it didn't move. Armadillomon grunted, and pulled again, this time the chair moving half an inch. (Man... so weak I can't even move a chair. Unless I want to drink out of the toilet, I better get some help...) Armadillomon sighed, he hated being this pathetic, relying on Gomamon to protect him, to feeble to even climb to the sink, completely vulnerable, so weak he could hardly stay awake. Armadillomon turned around defeated, walking back to the kitchen door, which was shut tight. (Oh come on now...) Armadillomon looked up, the door now seeming impossibly high. Armadillomon looked around, but the kitchen only had one way out, not counting the windows and the locked side door. (Great. Just great, now it looks like I will be sleeping on the floor on the kitchen. Maybe I can call out...) "Cody..." Armadillomon called out, that one word burning his throat, but the name was hardly a whisper to Armadillomon's own ears. (Or maybe I will just sleep here... looks like no one can hear me.)

"No not Cody." A voice answered from behind the door. It was oddly familiar, but different. Much more... dark.

"Wh... who?" Armadillomon asked, his throat raw just from that simple word.

"I am so sick of you chosen ones getting in my way. Butting your nose into my own personal business."

"Wh.. what...." Armadillomon coughed out, his voice a bit stronger than before. (Oh no... the stalker!)

"But at least you can provide one use to me. Now, why don't you take a whiff?"

(What?) Armadillomon took a sniff, and a fragrant aroma hit his nostrils. "G...gas..." Armadillomon suddenly knew why he felt so sleepy. He could hear the distinct whistling coming from the stove now.

"Turned on the stove, and blew out the burners." The voice replied on the other end of the door. "Breath deeply. You might as well make it quick."

Armadillomon looked around. The windows where shut tight, the side door locked, and this door to the living room impossible for him to open. (No...) Armadillomon raised his front paw, dragging his claws over the wooden door. Normally one blow would rip the door wide open, but now he only succeeded in making three scratches. (Cody...) Armadillomon tried again, making a few more minor marks on the door, but he could feel himself grow weaker. (Help....me...)

******************************************************************

"Cody!" Snowagumon was shaking Cody's shoulder hard.

"Huh?" Cody was rocked awake. He had only fallen asleep a half an hour ago, just sitting with Noriko for the longest time. Neither one had wanted to move. Noriko finally fell half asleep on Cody's arm. Cody had gotten up, placed Joe's housecoat around her, and carried her back to bed. Cody, thoroughly exhausted, slipped on only his pyjama bottoms before crashing back on the couch. But now, Cody was awake again, and something was wrong. "Snowagumon?"

"It's Noriko! Oh god it's Noriko!" Snowagumon broke down, placing her hands in her eyes. "She did it all!"

"Snowagumon?!" Cody's heart skipped as he looked around. Noriko was no longer with him. The his gaze turned over "Armadillomon! Where is he?!"

Snowagumon couldn't speak, but vainly gestured to the kitchen. Cody was up in a heartbeat, bruising his knee on the side of couch but he didn't feel anything he was so numb. Cody rushed into the living room, and froze. Noriko had her hand on the kitchen door. "Cody!" Noriko's heart skipped a beat.

Cody didn't even pause, shoving Noriko hard to the side. "Ouf!" Noriko grunted as she slammed against the wall.

Cody smashed the door open, splintering the wood around the knob. Cody didn't even bother to check if he door was locked, or even if it had a lock. "Armadillomon!" Cody's eyes went wide, watering from the gas filling up the room.

Armadillomon was on the ground, surrounded by wood chips from the door. "Co...." Armadillomon passed out, unable to stay consciousness any longer.

Cody grabbed Armadillomon off the ground, the digimon feeling surprisingly light. "Let's get the hell out of here." Cody turned away from the kitchen, not even caring that he left the gas on.

Noriko was on the ground, her lip quivering as Cody came out of the kitchen, holding Armadillomon. Armadillomon looked dead, the only reason either of them knew he was still alive was that his body did not break up like traditional digimon death. "Co...." Noriko choked out.

"You sicken me." Cody looked down at Noriko, his eyes full of pure hate. "I am going to make sure you get locked up in the asylum you deserve." Cody turned to the front door, wanting out.

Noriko scrambled to her feet, chasing Cody out off the door. "Cody I swear it wasn't me!" Noriko ran up to Cody, grabbing his arm. Cody didn't respond, but twisted his arm away, knocking over Noriko again. Cody began to walk away, but Noriko leapt forward, grabbing Cody's leg. "Please!" Noriko cried, holding on to Cody's leg.

Cody tried to pull his leg free, but Noriko was holding on tight. Cody stumbled landing forward. Armadillomon was wrenched from his grasp. The poor rookie landed on his stomach, crying in pain even in his unconsciousness. The sound hit Cody like a knife in the heart. Cody looked down at Noriko, the girl's arms wrapped around his legs. This creature that he loved, and in returned tried to kill his best friend. "You..." Cody hissed, his teeth clenched tightly. Cody's world evaporated into a red haze. Noriko's world just disappeared into blackness.

***************************************************************

"I can't find anything!" Gomamon resurfaced again from the water.

"Keep looking!!" Joe looked down as he stepped over some animal’s tracks. (Wait a second...) Joe bent down on one knee, curiosity getting the best of him. (These tracks... they are like bird tracks, much too large. And not any mammal. Possible reptile? But three toes...) Joe scrunched his nose. (No reptile has three toes, except for dinosaurs which is ludicrous...) Joe's eyes went wild. "GOMAMON!"

Gomamon's head burst out of the water. "Joe!" Gomamon like most aquatic mammals had excellent hearing, and he could hear Joe just fine even when he was under the water.

"We need to get back NOW!!" Joe shouted as Gomamon leapt on to his shoulders, and Joe went tearing up the riverbank.

**********************************************************

Cody had been hitting Noriko for who knows long now, splitting his own knuckles. Noriko's face was a bloody mess, her shoulders and arms covered with bruises as she tried to stop the rain of blows, though her arms hung limply down her sides now, Noriko just barely hanging on to consciousness. Cody raised his crimson fist one more time, and brought it down

Cody's arm fell short, being held by a strong white hand. "That's enough." Snowagumon held Cody's wrist. Her voice was deeper now, and full of authority.

Cody's head snapped to the side. This was no longer the sweet and gentle Cody. His eyes where full of rage under his sweat mopped brow. He looked more like a refugee from a war torn country then the digidestined. Cody stood paralysed for a second, his entire body tense as Snowagumon grasped his left arm tight. Time seemed to crawl. A single drop of blood slowly began to extend from Cody's crimson fist, elongated, before breaking, and snapping off into a scarlet orb.

Snowagumon's mouth opened. Cody thought she finally going to speak, to defend her murderous partner. Then Snowagumon's tongue darted out, snapping the blood out of mid air. Cody's eyes went wide in horror as Snowagumon retracted her tongue. "Mmmmm...." Snowagumon licked her lips. "It has been so long since I tasted blood. I had almost forgotten the intense flavour, the texture of life imbued in the dark fluid." Snowagumon's voice went even lower.

Cody's breath began to come in shallow breath. "What..." Snowagumon smiled as she pulled Cody hard, throwing him completely off balance. "UGhhh!" Cody rolled on the ground, surprised by the raw strength.

"ICE BLAST!" Snowagumon opened her mouth, and a blue stream of frozen ice poured from her mouth.

"AHHH!" Cody's feet went numb, as if they instantly fell asleep. He looked down, finding each of his feet in cased in a tomb of ice.

"Now stay put." Snowagumon smiled at the hapless digidestined.

"You..." Cody looked up at Snowagumon.

"I see we finally figured it out." Snowagumon turned her back to Noriko. "Noriko was never responsible for anything." Snowagumon took three steps back to the bloody girl, who lay on the ground, her breath coming in shallow rags. "She merely thought she did." Snowagumon bent down on one knee, running a taloned hand over Noriko's long hair. Snowagumon bent her mouth close, and slowly dragged her tongue over Noriko's cheek, licking the trail of blood dripping from her forehead. Noriko shivered, whether from the fear or merely the frigid cold of Snowagumon's tongue, Cody couldn't tell. "Mmm... young girls were always my favourite." Snowagumon smiled as she moved her snout to Noriko's ear. "It was all I could do from eating you alive while you slept."

"Leave her ALONE!" Cody shouted regaining his composure for a bit.

"So you can beat her some more?" Snowagumon turned her head back. "Face it Cody. What you've done to her is horrid. Beating an innocent girl half to death." Snowagumon smirked. "I admire that. Who knew I had so much in common with a digidestined."

Cody's body began to shake, not just from the cold radiating from his ice enclosed legs. "You..." Cody looked at his bloody hand. "Tricked me."

"And that makes it all better." Snowagumon turned her attention back to Noriko, whose entire body was pulsing with purple and black energy. "Five years..." Snowagumon smiled. "Five years I waited, planned... for this day." Snowagumon watched as a tiny bud appeared on Noriko's head.

"The dark spore!" Cody's breath left him as the bud began to open, revealing a hideously beautiful flower.

"Yes!" Snowagumon's voice cheered as she placed her hands on the flower. "How I waited for this day!" Snowagumon grabbed the flower, and felt the dark energy flow through her. "YES!"

"CODY!" Joe came running over the bank as quickly as possible, Gomamon hanging tightly to his shoulders. "It's Snowagumon! She's the one!" Joe stopped dead as he reached the top of the bank.

"Joe..." Gomamon leapt off Joe's shoulders, seeing the display in front of him. Noriko injured, Cody immobilized in ice leg casts, and Snowagumon... he didn't know what was happening to her. "I think he knows."

"AHHHHH!" Snowagumon stumbled back as her body began to warp. Her body grew, stretching the white skin like plastic wrap. The skin began to split, peeling away as the body grew. Reds, blues and yellows began to appear as the skin fell off like a dying cocoon. "AHHHH!" The being that was once Snowagumon screamed again, her face falling off, slipping to the ground. A new figure now stood hunched over as the screams finally died away. Ever so slowly the creature stood up, turning to face the Digidestined. A blue uniform trimmed with bright yellow and a crimson red cape stood an impressive six-foot frame. The face was as pale as Snowagumon's skin, sitting under a mask as red as the blood dripping from Noriko's face.

Joe and Gomamon each stepped back in horror. They where the only two there that had seen this figure before, at least as he once was. "MYOTISMON!"

Myotismon turned slightly, facing the eldest digidestined. "Ah yes, Joe is it not? And the spunky Gomamon. Tell me, how have the years been treating you?" Myotismon chuckled softly.

(Real bad right now.) Gomamon bit his lip, choking down the fear in his throat. "Ah can't complain to much. Got myself a Floramon girlfriend, did a little traveling in the Digital World, found this real nice restaurant that makes the best rice balls..."

"Silence." Myotismon ordered, tired of the rookies rambling.

Gomamon shut up, putting his claw on his lips and pretending to seal a zipper. He was just stalling for time. And Joe knew this as well. "And how's things been with you?' Joe asked, also feeling the fear Gomamon felt. "Guessing that death thing didn't work for you huh?"

"Ah yes, my last death as Malomyotismon." Myotismon looked up at the sky. "What a sad way for me to die. Think happy thoughts..." Myotismon chuckled. "I mean truly, with all the power I had, to be defeated by children making mere wishes..." Myotismon's face turned to a scowl. "I could not allow that."

"So enlighten us." Joe looked to Myotismon's side. Cody had ripped out his communicator, frantically typing into the machine. (I need to buy him a few seconds.) "How on earth did you make it back?"

Myotismon took the bait. Bragging was one of the things he enjoyed the most. "It was foolish of me to fully tie myself in with the misery of the Dark Spore children. As their depression lifted, my powers waned. And in my Mega form, my power drained quickly." Myotismon pointed back to Noriko, who lay motionless on the ground. "But she... she had the tiniest bit of doubt left in her heart. Doubt that she would fail. That she would die. Not much mind you, but just enough for me to slip in her heart, unnoticed." Myotismon smiled at himself for his brilliant plan. "I was reborn as her digimon. A female ice dinosaur no less. Amusing, but the perfect disguise." Myotismon voice suddenly dropped to a mere whisper. "I mean, who suspects the shy docile female digimon." Myotismon's voice exactly matched Snowagumon's.

"You've been planning this for years!" Gomamon had caught on to Cody's plan. the message was out, but the Digidestined where far away. And there was only a few in the city. Odds are he would be fighting Myotismon solo. (Oh joy.)

"Years." Myotismon repeated himself. "Years of saying just the right things to hurt Noriko. To make her feel weak. Useless." Myotismon took a breath. "It was almost beneath me. Little things like hiding her homework, and turning off her alarm so she'd be late for school, just to make life hard. The great Myotismon reduced to prankster. But patience is something I excelled at. Slowly she receded into the Dark Spore, and I could feel my power grow. But even as she reached the depth of depression, I knew I needed a powerful burst to break free of the Snowagumon guise." Myotismon smiled again. "So I started with the messages, made while she dreamt. But it was still not enough. And then, you digidestined arrived." Myotismon looked back at Cody. "Trying to help. So noble. At first, I wanted to get rid of you, but then I realized that you'd be perfect." Myotismon turned back to Joe. "So I swiped the keys from Ken to break into Ken's house. Drugging them was a simple matter. And using Snowagumon's power of cold, I could make the rooms frigid to help complete the setting. Then there was the attack on Armadillomon, which built to the climax. The misery you felt sickened Noriko even more, the fact you were all hurting trying to help her. But even more so was the fear that she was the one doing the heinous deeds."

"My god." Joe replied. "You are more depraved then I remember."

"Thank you." Myotismon nodded, a low chuckle escaping his lips. "I could feel the dark energy in Noriko reaching a climax. One more crushing defeat, one to break Noriko completely, was all I needed."

"Which is why you lured us away from the house." Joe went on. "I admit that was smart. You ran down to beach, called for help, and using Snowagumon's powers, made an ice sculpture in the water. Which is why we couldn't find the body. The ice dissolved as it floated down river. But I saw your tracks. Three toes. Like Snowagumon had."

"I needed you away." Myotismon nodded slightly. "You would stop my plans for Noriko."

"So you beat her half to death." Gomamon growled low in his throat. (Come on guys, I need back up!) Gomamon saw Armadillomon on the side. Gomamon knew Armadillomon was badly injured, and their was no way he could help.

"Oh no. That would accomplish nothing. She would realize that I was the one behind the whole scheme, and her suffering would be lifted." Myotismon looked back at Cody. "Tell them Cody."

"Wh..." Cody's eyes were watering. Joe and Gomamon where looking at him now, and it hurt.

"Tell them how Noriko fell in love with you. Found comfort in your strong arms." Myotismon eyes felt like lasers boring into Cody's face. "And tell them how you savagely beat her, even as she pleaded for your forgiveness."

Joe and Gomamon looked at Cody. "Cody..." Joe whispered out.

Cody's lip trembled as Myotismon stared deeply at him. His entire body began to shake, as he burst into tears. Even as he placed his hands in his face, he could smell the coppery blood on his fingertips. "You see." Myotismon looked at the sobbing boy. "Pure misery." Myotismon chuckled again, then furrowed his brow. he slowly bent down, scooping a small organizer out of Cody's shirt, which was protruding slightly.

Myotismon brought the organizer up, clicking the lid open. On the screen a message flashed in bright green letters.

Myotismon scowled deeply, then his face returned to normal. "Bah." Myotismon casually tossed the organizer to the side. "I still retain all of Snowagumon's memories. And I know hardly a handful of you Digidestined are even in the city. And you have no time to organize yourselves." Myotismon looked over to Joe. "So I just need to kill you quick."

"Gomamon digivolve to..." Gomamon's body began to burn with light, expanding to ten times its original size. "IKKAKUMON!" A giant white furred sea mammal with an enormous black horn stood in front of Myotismon. "Got to get by me FIRST!" Ikkakumon charged, aiming his horn at Myotismon's chest for what would pass as his heart.

"Have the years dulled your senses?" Myotismon held out his hands, grabbing the horn as Ikkakumon attacked. Ikkakumon stopped dead with a grunt. "Do you not remember the strength I wield?"

Ikkakumon let out a chuckle even as he duck his paws into the ground to keep from moving. "I do. Do you remember my powers as well? HARPOON TORPEDO!"

Ikakkumon fired his front horn. Myotismon was holding on with both hands, and was blasted of the ground by the sheer force, taken by complete surprise. The black horn in his hand split apart in mid air, and exploded shortly afterwards, a bright explosion filling the sky. "Again!" Joe pointed to the fireball. He knew that Myotismon would not go down so easily.

"HARPOON TORPEDO!" Ikkakumon fired again, adding another missile into the blast. A second explosion filled the air. Ikakkumon vainly hoped that he had managed to take Myotismon down.

"Amusing." Myotismon waved his cape, dispersing the flames. "Here are a few tricks of my OWN! Grizzly WING!" Myotismon held his hands in front of him, the night sky filling with the squeaking of bats.

(They'll turn me to ribbons in seconds. I can't win against him, especially in a one on one fight. I need to play smart!) Ikkakumon looked to the side, hearing the river lap against the shore. (And fight in my element!) Ikakkumon turned, which one might attribute to cowardice, and ran to the river with a speed that betrayed his appearance.

"Do not leave so soon!" Myotismon laughed as he followed Ikkakumon to water, the sea creature making an enormous splash as he dove in, avoiding the horde of bats.

(That's it you blood sucking fiend!) Ikkakumon turned in the water. (Just keep after me!)

Myotismon gestured with his hands as they began to burn with red energy. "Come out and face your!" Myotismon's speech was cut short as the water burst alive with frothy foam, spewing out a missile. "CRIMSON LIGHTINING!" Myotismon expected this, smashing the missile to the side, where it exploded harmlessly in a nearby riverbank.

What Myotismon did not expect was Ikakkumon to come leaping out of the water. "Gotcha!" Ikkakumon latched on to Myotismon's leg with his mouth.

"GRAHH!" Myotismon was suddenly dragged under water, the two of the disappearing in the dark river.

(All right bats!) Ikkakumon began to swim full force. (Let's see how you like a little scenic ocean tour!) Ikaukkmon began to whirl around, hoping to keep Myotismon disoriented in the unfamiliar surroundings.

Joe saw Ikakkumon taking on Myotismon one on one. (Brave guy. Just don't get yourself killed.) Joe ran up to Noriko and Cody, the sprawled from of Armadillomon next to them. "We got to get out of here!" Joe grabbed a shovel that was sticking out of the ground next to the neighbour’s flowerbed.

"God Joe... what have I done...." Cody was a blubbering mess.

"Damn it Cody snap out of it!" Joe brought the shovel down hard on Cody's left foot, the ice cracking. "I don't know how long Ikakkumon can hold Myotismon off!" Joe struck at the ice again, casting a glance towards the river.

The river suddenly began to glow scarlet, and began to bubble with energy. A white furred digimon rookie came flying out of the water. "YAHH!" Gomamon screamed as he was flung with enough force to make his ears pop.

Myotismon burst out of the river a split second later, soaking, but hardly detoured. "Foolish pond scum!" Myotismon natural flight let him catch up to Gomamon in a heart beat. Myotismon caught Gomamon by the neck, and squeezed tight, now fifty stories high. "Did you think your pathetic tricks like that could stop me?!"

"Well I hoped." Gomamon smirked, letting out a little cough. "How about another one? Look behind you."

Myotismon squeezed harder, ready to break Gomamon's neck with a simple twist, when he felt a tapping on his shoulder. "What?!"

SMACK! Stingmon hit Myotismon hard on the face, ripping Gomamon out of his grip. Stingmon didn't pause as he launched himself forward, tackling Myotismon full force in the chest. The water may be Ikakkumon's domain, but the sky was Stingmon’s. "You are going DOWN!" Stingmon flew high., taking Myotismon to the stratosphere.

"Heeeyyyy!" Gomamon screamed as he tumbled downwards. "What about meeeee?!" Gomamon panicked, but Stingmon was already out of earshot.

"Gotcha!" Yolei caught Gomamon as he fell, the small digimon making a grunt as his free fall stopped.

The giant bird digimon Aquilamon flew low as Yolei rode on his back. "You didn't thing we'd let you fall?" Aquilamon wanted Gomamon and Yolei off his back fast. Stingmon would need help.

"Huh huh..." Gomamon panted as Aquilamon landed, Yolei jumping off his back holding the panting Gomamon. "Warn a mon next time!" Gomamon jumped out of Yolei's arms.

"Sorry guy, we needed to take Myotismon down fast!" Ken ran up to the pair. Aquilamon had already taken off, following the red lightning flashing in the sky.

"Well glad you're here!" Gomamon looked up in the sky, but could not see anything but the crimson flashes. "Ah.... are there any others?"

"... No." Ken grimaced. "They all received Cody's message and are rushing here as quick as possible... but they are scattered all over the world, or digital world. It may be hours before they all arrive."

"Is Davis near by?" Joe shouted as he slung Noriko over his back. "We need at least one mega!"

"He and Raidramon are running here at top speed. But it will be hours. We better hide. Hopefully Myotismon will have some other plans then destroying the city." Ken went on.

"Or us!" Gomamon shouted back as he went over to Armadillomon.

The battle between Stingmon and Myotismon raged on high above the city streets. "Spiking STRIKE!" Stingmon kept close to Myotismon. Myotismon attacks were long distance, and as long as Stingmon could keep close, he could keep Myotismon from using those attacks. Stingmon's charged blade moved faster than the human eye could see, but not as fast as Myotismon could move.

"Impressive for an amateur." Myotismon flew back, Stingmon keeping up with him. This time Myotismon swung out with his hand, Stingmon just narrowly dodging.

Myotismon grabbed Stingmon's arm, and twist Stingmon upwards. "GRahh!" Stingmon felt his shoulder twist at a near breaking angle as Myotismon moved behind Stingmon's back, grabbing Stingmon's neck antenna with his free hand as he held on to Stingmon’s arm with his other. "Let go of me!!" Stingmon growled in pain.

"Why?" Myotismon's voice dropped to Snowagumon's whisper. "Don't you want another kiss?"

Dawning comprehension filled Stingmon's normally set face. "You... Snowagumon?"

"Bingo." Myotismon whispered as he opened his mouth. Myotismon voice turned to normal as he spoke. "Now vampires kiss a little bit differently." Myotismon laughed as he sunk his teeth in Stingmon's neck.

"SONIC RINGS!" Myotismon screamed as he was ripped off Stingmon's back by the red circles of energy.

"Stingmon!" Aquilamon flew up to Stingmon, who regained his composure mid flight. "Are you all right?"

Stingmon put a hand on his neck. "Yes, he did not get much out of me."

"Bah." Myotismon spit to the side. "I prefer the taste of human girls anyway. Perhaps that Yolei girl." Myotismon smiled. "I believe I will drain her dry after I kill you."

"Over my dead body!" Aquilamon's horns began to glow red.

"Isn't that just what I said?" Myotismon laughed as his own hands glowed crimson.

Back down on the earth outside Joe's house, Joe, Yolei, and Ken where trying to help Cody, Noriko and Armadillomon. "Come on Cody." Yolei helped the young boy to his feet.

"Noriko is she?" Cody's cheeks were tear washed.

"She's fine." Joe held Noriko, who was just starting to stir. "As long as we keep her far away from Myotismon."

"Why? Hasn't he got what he needed from her?" Ken asked carrying Armadillomon as they ran to his car.

"Yes but he is still tied into the dark Spore. He may want to make sure that Noriko doesn't counteract the dark energy feeding him." Joe ran up to his own car, which was a station wagon, large enough to hold the lot of them.

"How would he do that?!" Yolei half carried Cody to the other side. Cody's feet were still numb from the ice.

"By killing her." Joe answered as he dropped Noriko in the passenger seat.

"No." Cody suddenly growled from Yolei's side. "I won't let him touch her."

"Don't worry, hopefully Stingmon and Aquilamon can hold them off long enough for us to escape." Joe grabbed his key, and jammed it into the ignition, the car roaring to life.

Suddenly the car was lifted of its back wheels as Myotismon landed on the hood, the engine being ripped from its casings, destroying the vehicle. Myotismon laughed as he looked through threw window, holding Hawkmon and Wormmon in one hand. "Going somewhere?" Myotismon held the bruised forms of the two digimon out. "Without your friends?"

Myotismon didn't wait for answer, reaching his free hand through the windshield. Joe swung out his arms to protect himself from the falling glass, but he was shortly ripped from the front seat by Myotismon's strong arm. "Now where were we?" Myotismon held Joe close to his face.

Gomamon leapt through the broken windshield to his partner's aid. "Time for Round two!" Gomamon leapt up, and landed on Myotismon's neck. "Peekaboo!" Gomamon wrapped his flippers around Myotismon's face.

"BAH!" Myotismon dropped Joe as he stumbled backwards, Gomamon trying to twist from Myotismon's reach. Myotismon snapped his neck forward suddenly, Gomamon flying off and landing on the ground.

"UH!" Gomamon felt the wind rushed out of him as he landed on his back. "That the best you got?!" Gomamon rolled to his stomach, as Wormmon and Hawkmon came flying at him. Gomamon's world shut out around him as Hawkmon's head collided with his own.

Myotismon smiled at his work, before turning to the human children. Everyone had abandoned the wreck, and Ken was helping Joe up. "I will finish what I started nearly a decade ago." Myotismon walked up slowly. "Killing the digidestined." Myotismon looked at Joe, Yolei, Ken, Cody and Noriko. "Even after the years, you are still children. Afraid of the dark monster. Afraid of me!" Myotismon moved closer. "Now who wants to be first..." Myotismon looked them over. "Ah the girl. I always favoured girls. Much more succulent than boys." Myotismon walked slowly over the grass.

"Well..." Yolei dug into her pocket. "How about we add a little spice to the meal?!" Yolei took a small aerosol canister, and empty the contest in Myotismon's direction.

"Grahhh!" Myotismon stumbled back, blinded by the pepper spray.

"HA!" Ken leapt forward, taking Myotismon in a stomach tackle. "We aren't children anymore!"

"No." Myotismon growled as he was merely shoved back a foot, which only happened because he was taken by surprise. "Just fools." Myotismon swung his arm wide, smacking Ken away. Ken went flying into Yolei, both of them landing heavy on the ground. "Dead fools." Myotismon held up his left hand as Joe snuck behind him, and tried to bring a shovel down on the back of his head. Myotismon turned and ripped the shovel from Joe's grip, and brought the flat of the spade down on Joe's face. Joe instantly went limp, his nose a scarlet waterfall.

"GRAHH!" Myotismon’s head snapped up. Cody leapt at Myotismon with a berserk rage that he didn't think was possible.

"And then there is you." Myotismon dodged effortlessly to the side as Cody swung his grandfather’s sword, which Cody had grabbed off the ground.

"I'll stop you myself!!" Cody twisted the blade as he aimed a lateral slash across Myotismon chest.

"Delusional." Myotismon hand moved fast, faster than Cody could see as it latched on to the silver blade. Myotismon merely pushed his thumb up. The metal made a groan as it shattered, the blade snapping in two.

"Uhhh..." Cody brought the hilt back to his face, his grandfather’s priceless sword, gone.

"Now then." Myotismon moved forward, grabbing Cody by both his arms and lifting him up off the ground. "Shall we try this without the toys?" Myotismon smiled. "So tell me young one. What do you think of hell? I admit, during my research into your human mind's, I found the concept fascinating." Myotismon squeezed Cody's arms tighter, Cody yelping in pain. "How do you think your god will judge you for your own sins? Anger and violence, the fifth circle of hell." Myotismon suddenly turned his voice to Snowagumon's. "Fix thine eyes below, for the river of blood is near, in which boils who so doth harm to others by violence..." Myotismon's voice turned back to normal after he finished the quote from Dante's Inferno. "Tell me if it is true or not, for I am curious."

"No please don't hurt him!" Myotismon looked to his side. Noriko was up, but her normal beautiful face bloodied and bruised, her hair caked with her own blood.

"Sad. Even after what he did to you, you still care for him." Myotismon looked Cody in the eyes, seeing the obvious mental pain. 'It is a shame you do not hold the Dark Spore in you as well. I wager the grief you are feeling near unbearable."

Noriko fell to her knees. "You got what you wanted!" Noriko cried on the ground. "Now just go! PLEASE!!"

"No..." Myotismon smiled as he turned his head to Noriko, feeling something bubbling on the surface. "Not yet." Myotismon turned back to Cody. " I bear you no malice. In fact, I owe you for helping restore me. Your anger is truly inspiring. But, I need to finish what I once started." Myotismon smiled as he twisted up with both hands.

KERACK! Cody's arms snapped like brittle sticks, making a horrible cracking sound. "GRAHHHHH!" Cody yelled at the unbearable pain, Myotismon still clamped down on his arms.

"CODY!" Noriko squealed as Myotismon released Cody on to the ground, the young boy in obvious torment.

Myotismon let Cody fall to the ground, the young teen tossing left and right, his arms flopping at sickening angles. "GRAHHHHH!" Cody screamed yet again.

"Cody!" Noriko ran up to Cody, her entire body turning black.

Myotismon smiled as he brought up his foot, and brought the full weight down on Cody's left leg. "ERRYAAHAHHHH!!!" Cody's screams echoed for blocks away as his shinbone snapped like kindling.

"STOP IT!" Noriko rushed up to Myotismon. "STOP IT STOP IT STOP IT!!!" Noriko beat on Myotismon chest with her closed fist, the blows not affecting Myotismon in the slightest.

"Yes...' Myotismon grabbed Noriko by the shoulders, the young girl sobbing uncontrollably. Noriko's entire body sparked with black and purple energy. "YES!" Myotismon screamed as he felt the dark energy flying up his fingertips. Myotismon's eyes turned dark purple as the energy infused in his code. His body began to warp again, growing larger in every passing second. "I feel the power." Myotismon's body grew to ten times the size it was before, his arms growing into large metallic claws, as metal armour formed over his body. The creature that was once Myotismon stood tall as he felt the horrifying transformation finish. "I.. am... reborn..." The voice boomed over the entire city. "MALOMYOTSIMON!"

Cody moved his head up, Noriko cradling his head in her arms. Even in the extreme pain, the horror of Malomyotismon chilled him to the bone. "No..." Cody's breath left him as Malomyotismon turned his head to him and Noriko.

Malomyotismon looked down at the pair. "Now..." Malomyotismon looked down at Noriko, over the pain ridden form of Cody. "To ensure that you're grief is eternal." Malomyotismon raised a gigantic arm. "Enjoy death. I grew bored with it."

"Cody." Noriko held Cody's head tight as Malomyotismon's fist descended. "I am so sorry."

"Rolling STRIKE!" A hard yellow ball came flying out, deflecting the hand before it landed. Malomyotismon's hand made a giant crater, sending Noriko and Cody flying, Cody screaming as his broken limbs swung left and right. Malomyotismon ripped his arm out of the ground as Armadillomon jumped in front of Noriko and Cody. "Got to... get by me..."

"Up and about are we Armadillomon?" Malomyotismon turned to completely face Armadillomon, a sight enough to send the bravest soul running.

Armadillomon coughed, the stitches burning in his neck. "Enough to... send you back.... where you came from.... again." Armadillomon growled, but he was badly injured, and even at full strength and digivolved, he didn't have a prayer. And he didn't care

"What? Not going to hit on me again?" Malomyotismon laughed loud, a deep humiliating laugh.

"What are ya.... babbling about.... ya undead freak?" Armadillomon's voice ached, but he stood his ground. His speech came in ragged fragments, too painful to talk all at once.

"Am I no longer your type?" Malomyotismon's voice dropped to Snowagumon's soft tone. Malomyotismon then winked with one eye, though it was hardly noticeable with the mask.

Armadillomon suddenly grew a look of disgust in his face. "Oh yah... got to... be kiddin' me."

Malomyotismon laughed again, speaking in his normal deep voice. "Keeping a straight face through your pathetic come-ons was the hardest part of my subterfuge as Snowagumon." Malomyotismon raised his hand over his head again. "But I think we can dispense with the giggling and winking."

Armadillomon threw himself to the side as Malomyotismon smashed down hard with his right hand, sending up a spray of dirt. Armadillomon rolled roughly, and moved to slow as Malomyotismon's left hand latched on his body. "UH!"

"Now how shall I finish you off." Malomyotismon smiled as he held on to Armadillomon tightly with one hand. "Perhaps I shall remove your head, like I started last night when you tried to protect me." Malomyotismon reached down with his free hand, grabbing the top of Armadillomon's head.

"No..." Cody's face was twisted with pain. "Stop..."

"LEAVE HIM BE!" Noriko stood up, shouting with every ounce of authority she could muster.

Malomyotismon swivelled his neck, still holding Armadillomon's neck. "The lamb has a roar." Malomyotismon smiled evilly.

Noriko grabbed the digivice from her hand, and pointed it at the massive mega digimon. "You are my digimon. I ORDER YOU TO RELEASE HIM!" Noriko's voice was a shrill shriek.

Malomyotismon looked down, as if confused. Then he burst out laughing. "I am no human's digimon, least of all YOURS!" Malomyotismon's metal tail lashed out like a whip.

"UH!" Noriko's body flew up sickeningly.

"NORKIO!" Cody screamed from the ground as Noriko's body arched in the air, her digivice flying from her grasp. Malomyotismon smiled as Noriko began her downward decent, hitting the ground with a heart stopping thud.

"You monster!" Armadillomon growled in Malomyotismon's grip, not seeing a small object fly towards him.

"Now it's your turn." Malomyotismon smiled as the Noriko's digivice began to fall, hitting Armadillomon in the back of the head.

The digivice burst into light, and Armadillomon's head snapped up. "Ahhhhh...." Armadillomon's entire body began to glow, beams of light shooting out of his body.

"RARH!" Malomyotismon flung Armadillomon from his grasp instinctively as hand began to smoulder from the light emanating from the rookie's body.

"Armadillomon warp digivolve to...." Armadillomon felt power like he never felt before, his body expanding with the untold energy. A large fur skin broke out over his back, with two giant Digizoidium maces strapped to his back. His arms and legs bulged with newly formed muscles covered in fur as the startling transformation finished. "Vikemon!" Vikemon flexed his arms. "Oh yeah, that's what I am talking about!"

"So you can transform above champion." Malomyotismon let out a low hiss. "It will not help you."

Vikemon faced Malomyotismon. His neck was magically healed, there was no pain. There was however anger. "Hurting my best friend." Vikemon reached behind him, drawing out the two enormous maces. "Big mistake."

"Did you think that transforming to Mega would ensure your victory?" Malomyotismon took a step forward, the ground shaking, causing Cody to scream just from the jostling in his broken bones. "This is not a TV show where the good guys wins. You simply die." Myotismon shoulders burst open, and two red tendrils shout out.

"UH!" Vikemon was driven back as the attack bounced of his indestructible mace. "You're right, this is not a show or a game." Vikemon growled as Malomyotismon rushed forward, attacking with his sharp claws. "And maybe you will kill me..." Vikemon growled as he dug his massive feet into the earth, his face inches from Malomyotismon. "But if I go down, I go DOWN FIGHTING!!" Vikemon screamed as he pushed back with all his energy.

"GRAH!" Malomyotismon stumbled back, as Vikemon charged on the offensive.

"What's the matter?!" Vikemon swung the mace hard into the side of Malomyotismon's face. "Am I no longer your TYPE?!"

Vikemon brought his mace down a second time. "Foolish SIMPLETON!" Malomyotismon grabbed the mace as is began to descend again. "SCREAMING DARKNESS!" Malomyotismon's shoulder plates flew open.

A blast of energy caught Vikemon in the chest driving him back. "UGH!"

Malomyotismon rushed forward, smashing his own enormous fist into Vikemon's face. "I will kill all of you who dared to fight back!!" Vikemon lost his footing and fell back.

"You said it before and you where wrong!" Vikemon leapt forward, catching Malomyotismon in the chest with his shoulder. Malomyotismon stumbled back as Vikemon held out his maces, which began to glow bright blue. "ARTIC BLIZZARD!" A blast of cold ice fired from Vikemon's maces. "You like the COLD don't ya buddy?!"

"CRIMISON MIST!" Malomyotismon's shoulder opened up, and belched a blast of burning scarlet acid.

The two blasts exploded in the middle, hissing as the ice and acid combined, filling the air with a corrosive steam. The air filled with a hiss as the two poured on their dual attacks. "ERrrrr...." Vikemon growled as he poured himself into his attack.

"Feel the burning in your lungs?" Malomyotismon laughed. "Is it merely exertion? Or perhaps the poisonous mist filling the air?" Malomyotismon’s face broke into a wide grin. "Being undead, breathing is not necessary to me."

Vikemon grimaced, but the mist made from the attack was hurting him. "I... will not yield..." Vikemon coughed, his throat on fire.

"SCREAMING DARKNESS!" Malomyotismon suddenly switched attacks, and two tendrils shot out at high speed towards Vikemon.

"GUH!" Vikemon went down hard as two red tendrils smashed into his stomach. One of Vikemon's maces went flying into Joe's house. The gas filling up the kitchen ignited, exploding a horrific fireball, shooting flames several stories high. Vikemon tried to get up, but Malomyotismon moved faster.

Malomyotismon rushed up, his left clawed hand encircling Vikemon's neck. "Do you like it rough?" Malomyotismon jeered as he squeezed tightly, before smashing Vikemon in the face with his free hand.

"UGH!" Blood spurted from Vikemon's split lip as the massive digimon's vision began to blur.

"Now Vikemon!" Malomyotismon brought his enormous metallic claws across Vikemon's face. Two, three, four times, faster than the human eye could see. Vikemon went limp in Malomyotismon's grasp. "Now YOU DIE!" Malomyotismon raised his hand to strike again.

"MALOMYOTISMON!"

Malomyotismon moved his eyes to the right. "Noriko..."

Noriko stood there, her face badly injured, her shirt torn, and one arm hanging limply to her side. "You played me for a fool. Pretending to be my friend, my ally."

"You humans." Malomyotismon glared at the child. "Trusting and naive. I will do the world and yourself a favour by removing you all from the planet's face."

Noriko spoke a singly work calmly. "No." Noriko held her left hand up high over her head. "THIS ENDS NOW!" Noriko held out her digivice, which she got off the ground. "You wanted my POWER?! WELL HERE IT IS!" The digivice burst into light, turning night into day.

"Gah!" Malomyotismon dropped Vikemon and covered his own eyes from the initial light burst. "NO!" Malomyotismon shouted back at Noriko. "I order you, STOP IT!"

Noriko kept moving forward, holding her digivice high. "NO! I am not your fool! I am not your SLAVE!" Noriko's digivice began to glow brighter.

"Then I WILL END IT FOR YOU!" Malomyotismon's shoulders shot open, ready to end the child's life. "CRIMSON!"

"NOT TODAY!" Vikemon grabbed Malomyotismon from behind in a full nelson, pinning Malomyotismon's arm up and behind his head.

"Let me GO!" Malomyotismon screamed as the light shone on him from Noriko's digivice.

"Keep it UP!" Vikemon struggled to hold on the pain ridden Malomyotismon. "You're hurting HIM!"

"GRAHH!" Malomyotismon screamed as Noriko moved closer. "Get AWAY from me!!"

"NO!" Noriko shouted with all defiance. "Tonight, I reclaim what is MINE!" Noriko shoved her hand forward, touching Malomyotismon on the foot with her digivice.

"SCREEEEEEE!" Light burst from Malomyotismon mouth and eyes, his skin bubbling around his face, his metal body cracking.

Vikemon released Malomyotismon as Noriko ran backwards. "Now I will end this." Vikemon felt the power flow through him, fuelled by Noriko's digivice. He reached behind his back, and held out his remaining mace, which began to glow. "Once and for ALL!" The mace ball at the end began to elongated, and transformed into a razor sharp axe head. "VIKING AX!"

"NOOOO!" Malomyotismon screamed as Vikemon jumped high, the axe raised over his head, the viral mega in too much pain to do anything but writhe in agony The blade came down with enough force to split a mountain in two, windows shattering a block away as the axe cleaved Malomyotismon neatly down the middle. Malomyotismon body began to spasm as it split slowly into, the dark energy pouring out from it like a gushing wound. Malomyotismon body seemed to hang there for a second. "GAAAAAAAHHHHH!" One last inhuman scream came from his lips, as his body exploded in a horrible blaze of light as the entire area was engulfed in a explosion of pure energy that could be seen from space. All around the city, civilians watched as the light of a sun burned in the centre of their thriving metropolis. One thought entered their minds, could anyone have survived that?

**********************************************************

24 hours later.....

"Knock knock!" The young brown haired Davis knocked on the doorframe of the opened hospital door. Veemon stood at his feet, holding a two litre containers of something. "Guess who?"

Cody looked up from his bed. His arms and left leg were in plaster casts suspended from metal wires. His face also had several smaller bandages on his face. Armadillomon was on the foot of his bed as well, keeping his partner company. But despite the dull pain and uncomfort Cody was feeling, he had a smile on his face. "Davis and Veemon!"

"And TK and Patamon." The blond man TK rounded the corner a second earlier, Patamon riding on his head.

"How are you guys?" Cody asked his friends as they entered the room.

"Better than you it looks like." TK walked up on one side of Cody's hospital bed.

"Damn." Davis came in the room. "You've look liked you've seen better days."

Cody smiled, even that small gesture seeming to hurt. "Well, I did try and take Myotismon one on one."

"Same here." Armadillomon jumped off Cody's bed. His own wounds on his neck healed when he digivolve for Mega, so he was in much better shape than he was a day ago.

TK laughed. "Well next time the situation comes up, call us."

"I hope so. I was rushing here on Rapidmon, and I saw that explosion of light." Davis patted Cody lightly on the shoulder. "You almost gave me a heart attack! I expected to come back and find the city a crater!!"

"Tell me about it." Armadillomon was the only beside Noriko who was conscious when Malomyotismon exploded. "When that bugger went off, I thought I was a goner. Luckily it was all flash and no bang."

"Luckily." Cody nodded in agreement.

"Anyway, we come bearing gifts." Veemon hopped on a chair next to Cody. "VAD's noodles." Veemon lifted a huge steaming Tupperware container of Japanese noodles on the table beside the bed.

"MMM..." Armadillomon licked his lips. "Hope there 's enough for Cody as well."

"Vad?" Cody raised an eyebrow.

"Veemon and Davis' " Davis replied with a smirk.

"Veemon got his name first?' Patamon looked over at Davis.

"He beat me at a poker game." Davis admitted sheepishly. "Besides, I am using him on out logo." Davis turned the container slightly, showing Veemon giving a thumbs up. "What can I say? he has more marketability than me."

"Can I help it if kids think I am cute?" Veemon batted his blue eyelids.

"Can I help it if kids thing you are a pokemon?" Davis shot back. "Come on, do a pika pika for me."

"Anyway." Patamon flew in front of Cody, holding a stack of sheets stapled together. The front cover had black letters on the front, The Devil of File Island.

"Your book?" Cody replied as Patamon opened the first page, Cody unable to do so.

"Dedicated to Cody." Patamon read out the dedication. "For never knowing when to give up."

"TK..." Cody looked at the blond boy. "You don't need to dedicate the whole book to me."

"It's just the rough draft." TK placed a hand on Cody's shoulder. "It talks about Devimon. My greatest fear. I figured you needed to read it."

Cody smiled softly. "Thanks TK. But I can't even lift turn a page."

"I can help with that." A small voice came from the door. All eyes turned to Noriko, standing at the doorway. Her right eye was swollen shut, and she had a large bandage covering half her forehead. Her lower lips was also swollen and split, and her right arm was in cast.

Cody shifted uncomfortably in the bed, not even able to look Noriko in the face. A second of awkward silence filled the hall, before TK spoke up. "Well, I think we should let you rest Cody."

"Right, visitors all day." Davis nodded as he turned to the door. "Come on you guys."

"Why?" Veemon looked up. Davis just sighed as he walked out of the room, grabbing Veemon's blue pointed ear and dragging him out. "Ow ow! Ok I am coming!"

"Besides." Patamon landed on Armadillomon's back as he walked out of the door. "I want to hear all about your new girlfriend." Patamon batted his eyes mockingly.

"Oh don't ya start!" Armadillomon began to lecture as he turned out the door. "How was I supposed ta know that Snowagumon was Malomyotismon?!"

"Didn't know you swung that way." Veemon laughed, his voice dying down the hall. "Maybe you shouldn't ride his shell like that Patamon. You might be giving him the wrong message."

"Gah!" Armadillomon yelled as he bucked up, throwing Patamon off his shell.

"Nah, he likes the tall blond hair guys with pale skin, don't you?" Patamon laughed with Veemon. "Hey, I can digivolve to Angemon, if you want big boy."

"Yeah just need to get you a Myotismon costume and the illusion will be complete!" Veemon laughed harder, a tear coming to his eye.

"Oh that is it!!" Armadillomon bucked his hips. "I am goin' ta get you two!" Patamon and Veemon took off down the hospital ward, Armadillomon in hot pursuit.

Noriko smiled softly as she watched them disappear across a corner, Davis and TK just laughing to themselves as they followed the digimon. "They are good friends."

Cody looked up at the door as Veemon and Patamon came racing past the door a second time. "Myotismon and Armadillomon sitting in a tree..."

"Git over here!" Armadillomon followed close suit, this time followed by an overweight angry nurse shouting at the three to stop running and quiet down.

Noriko let out a half smile as the digimon disappeared a second time. "How is everybody else?" Noriko walked in to the hospital room.

"Ken is fine, a few scrapes and bruises. Yolei had a minor concussion. Joe's nose is broken, but he's ok." Cody summed up. "Hawkmon, Gomamon, and Wormmon are all fine, but Gomamon and Wormmon are really depressed... finding out Snowagumon was Myotismon and all."

"How depressed?" Noriko looked over at Cody.

"Gomamon introduced Wormmon to binge drinking." Cody replied trying a vain attempt at a joke. "I guess having your first kiss with Myotismon really hurts."

Noriko laughed a little, as did Cody, but it was an awkward laugh, merely to fill the silence. An awkward pause filled the air though. Cody was just trying to avoid the conversation that he knew needed to happen. "Cody..." Noriko broke the stalemate.

"No Noriko..." Cody started. "This is all my fault. I did something I didn't even know I was capable of."

"Cody let me speak..." Noriko asked.

"Please Noriko, just go." Cody turned his head away. "I just don't want to see you right now."

"No."

"Huh?" Cody's eyes went wide with surprise as he turned his head back to Noriko.

"I said no I am not going, and no offence, you are in no position to make me." Noriko replied with smugness.

"That's not fair!" Cody protested.

"Life's nor fair, get used to it." Noriko smirked.

"You've changed." Cody replied with a hint of surprise. "I mean you seem a lot more... forceful."

"Listen." Noriko sat on the bed. "For the last five years I was timid and quiet. I let people at school walk all over me; I let others talk behind my back. And I didn't speak out when I should have." Noriko ran her hand over Cody's leg cast. "I should have told you from the start what was happening, that I believed I was responsible for the terrible things my digi... Myotismon was responsible for." Noriko touched her face, wincing slightly as she touched a bruise. "You honestly though I tried to kill Armadillomon. I honestly thought I tried to kill Armadillomon, Myotismon had me so messed up." Noriko sighed softly. "He put the marker under my pillow, the blood on my hands, the knife in my back pack. That is why I tried to run away, so I wouldn't hurt anyone else." Noriko suddenly reached over, and rubbed Cody's face. "Least of all you Cody. You were the first person who was truly nice to me. My first true kiss. My first..." Noriko blushed slightly.

Cody blushed as well, but it faded quickly. "But still..."

Noriko interrupted him suddenly. "Let me show you something." Noriko reached onto her belt, and pulled a yellow D3 digivice. "Ken found this on the ground. He thought it was yours at first, but you still had yours on your belt."

"A new digivice?" Cody exclaimed. "Did you get a new digimon?"

"No." Noriko smiled softly. "I think when my digivice hit Armadillomon, it fused with him..." Noriko pressed a button, a crude black pixalated image of Vikemon appearing on the screen. "I think... it was trying to find a new digimon to bond with. A true digimon. Like Armadillomon."

"Armadillomon is your digimon now?" Cody's heart dropped. In a way, he didn't deserved Armadillomon any more. He beat Noriko savagely. Why should he be blessed with Armadillomon?

"No." Noriko replaced the digivice back on her belt. "Armadillomon will always be your best friend, and I would never do anything to stand in your way. This..." Noriko patted her belt. "Just mean that we are connected." Noriko leaned over Cody's chest, careful not to jostle him.

"I... I don't know how you can forgive me for what I've done." Cody's lip quivered as Noriko moved her face close to his.

"I just did." Noriko placed a tender kiss on Cody's lips, just for a split second, before removing her mouth from Cody's own. "And if you can forgive yourself, let me know." Noriko got off the bed, and walked to the door. She turned her head, and smiled, her face beaming. "I love you Cody." Noriko then turned, and walked out of the room.

Cody stood transfixed on the open space for a second, before whispering out "I love you too Noriko."

Red Rover- A bit difference that my normal stories, but I liked it.

Gomamon- Oh yeah, now go back to the part with Floramon and me again.

Red Rover- Not as depressing as Legacy of the Vampire 2, but a good read if I don't say so myself. I hoped you all enjoyed it.

I chose Snowagumon since it was a digivolve from of the digimon Noriko originally got at the end of the show. I didn't choose something like a Demidevimon because I knew it would be too obvious that she/he would be Myotismon.

I didn't do any lemon scene with Snowagumon because it would be completely out of character for Myotismon. That and any digimon who did sleep with her would probably have to gouge out his own eyes after words.

I choose Dante's Inferno as the book Snowagumon was reading since it is consider the guide to hell. Sounds like something Myotismon would read.

Ibuki and Flamegatomon are characters in my RPG run by Sylia Stingmon. And Ibuki is a hermaphrodite in the RPG.

There are words in this mega lemon.

Myotismon can't technically digivolve from Snowagumon.

Dinosaurs were the only reptiles with three toes. That bit of information came from Jurassic park.

Humans have two major arteries on the side of the neck.

Ice floats since the bonds between the oxygen and the hydrogen are further apart then in water, make ice less dense, so it floats. Water is the only known substance that is less dense in a solid than a liquid.

Red Rover does not drink. Although Gomamon apparently does.

Dante's Inferno is from The Divine Comedy, and describes the layers of hell. Dante's guide was Virgil. Virgil was in purgatory since he was not Christian. And apparently all non-Christians go to hell. Boy am I screwed as an atheist.