• The next morning, Rei was the first up. Seeing all her friends were asleep, she decided to go look for water. She went a good ways into the forest until she found a small pond. She got her some water and decided to head back in case her friends woke and worried about her. Along the way, Rei had a bad feeling something was going to happen today. When she arrived at the site, Chris was gone. She looked all around for him. She didn't think he should be alone in his condition. She walked up to Ryu and woke him up. “Huh, what is it Rei” he asked while wiping his eyes. “Ryu, Chris is gone. I looked for him, but I can't seem to find him” Rei said with a hint of worry in her voice. “I'll help you look, I doubt he could have gone far” Ryu said as he got up. The two combed the forest, looking for any sign of Chris. Ryu tried finding his scent, but he failed. “Where could he be, this isn't like him. Even if he changed a bit, he would never leave without telling someone” Ryu said. They decided to head back and wait for him. As they headed back, they passed a small clearing with a path leading out of the forest. “Maybe he went out there” Ryu suggested. “Wouldn't hurt to try” Rei said as they walked through the opening. As they walked out, they saw a flat field that stretched on as far as the eye could see. A little ways away, Ryu could point out a small hill with a big tree on it. Under the tree, was a large rock. Ryu was surprised to see that in top of the rock, was Chris. He was staring at the sun as it rose higher into the sky. Ryu began to run towards him. “Hey Chris” Ryu shouted as he ran. Chris turned around to acknowledge his friend and then continued staring into the sky. “What are you doing way out here by yourself” Ryu asked when finally making it to the tree. “I just wanted to be alone for a while” Chris said. “You could have told us you were leaving, you had me worried” Ryu said. “You and Sakura were sleeping and I didn't want to wake because of last night” Chris said. “Well, next time just tell me ok” Ryu said. “Ok” Chris said as he got up and jumped down from off the rock.

    The three arrived back at camp just as Sakura was waking up. “Did I miss something” Sakura said as she saw everyone return. “It's a long story” Ryu said as he collapsed back at his spot and went back to sleep. “Guess he had a rough night” Sakura said. “And a rough morning” Rei added. Later that day, the four of them went to the little pond to catch fish for lunch. Rei and Ryu were happily fishing, while Chris and Sakura where lying under a tree. “This is getting aggravating” Ryu said as one slipped by and went out of his reach. “Just keep trying Ryu, it takes patience” Rei said as she plucked one out of the water. Eventually the two of them managed to catch enough for everyone and brought them to the fire for cooking. While they cooked the fish, Chris and Sakura went forging for fruits in the trees. After a while, they all sat together and ate lunch. “This is starting to become routine” Ryu said as he ate a handful of berries. “Well, it's not as if we can do anything else” Rei said. They finished their lunch and started to talk for awhile. Chris fell asleep next to Sakura while the rest of them talked. Then, he began to dream.

    “Chris, Chris please stop” Sakura said as she ran. Chris let out a roar as he continued chasing Sakura in his ultimate form. They continued until Sakura was backed into a corner. Chris grabbed her and began to squeeze her like he did the human. “Chris your hurting me. Why are you trying to kill me” Sakura said as she struggled to get out of Chris's claws. Chris answered her with another roar. “Please let me go. Don't let me suffer the same fate as Ryu and Rei” She pleaded as she started to run out of air. Chris began to laugh at her. “C..hr..is” She said as her head fell forward, showing no signs of life. Then, everything went black. The darkness staid around for awhile until it was broken by a bright purple flash. The black silhouette of a human encased in a purple aura appeared before Chris. He was back as a Gigimon. “Wake up you useless digimon” the human said, “Attack those foolish beings you call friends. They say they are helping, but they are only holding you down.” “I will never harm my friends. I don't know who you are, but I'm tired of you in my dreams. Get away from me!” Chris yelled as the human disappeared, laughing The darkness returned and Chris was left alone, alone with the horrible laugh of the mysterious human. Chris's eyes shot awake to the sound of Ryu yelling and violently shaking him. “What's going on” Chris asked as Ryu stopped. “You were having nightmares again. You wouldn't stop yelling in your sleep” Ryu said, “You're starting to get me worried. I've never seen you like this.” “I'm sorry Ryu, these dreams won't go away. It's the same thing every time I go to sleep” Chris said. Chris started to walk away from the group and laid down under a tree. “Maybe we should talk to him” Ryu asked. “I don't see what good that will do” Rei said, “He keeps furthering himself away from us. Eventually, he'll leave us and live on his own.”

    The voice of the human kept ringing in Chris's mind. Now he couldn't even stay awake without the human tormenting him. The forest around him was quite, a warm breeze blew through the trees. Suddenly, a metal claw came shooting out of the trees towards Chris. As soon as he turned around, the claw had grabbed him. Out of the trees jumped a large black Machinedramon. The claw reeled back in, bringing Chris with it. “I finally got you. The boss will be happy with me” the digimon said. “Hey, what are you doing” Ryu yelled as he came running towards the digimon, “You can't have him.” Ryu charged towards Machinedramon, but was backhanded and sent flying back. “Foolish Guilmon, you can't defeat me” the Machinedramon said. “What do you want with me, let me go” Chris said as he struggled. “Oh no, the boss has special plans for you” Machinedramon said as the jets on his back fired up. He then began to fly off with Chris. Sakura and Rei ran off following the kidnapper with Ryu left behind.
    Ryu started to run but couldn't keep up with the other two. He tried to run faster, but tripped over himself. “No Chris, I... I couldn't save you” Ryu started to cry as he got back up. He started to remember all the times Chris had to defend him, all the times Chris helped him out when he was in trouble. Now Chris was in trouble and he had to save him. “I can't give up, no Chris needs me” Ryu said as he continued. The hazard on his chest began to glow as he ran. “I won't fail you Chris. Not again” Ryu said as he became enveloped in light and digivolved to Growlmon. “Where is Ryu”Rei said as she ran by Sakura. “Maybe he couldn't keep up” Sakura said as they continued after Machinedramon. A loud roar was heard behind them. “What was that” Sakura said. Right behind them both was Ryu, running at top speed. “Hey, Ryu digivolved” Rei said as Ryu started to run beside them. “Let's go save Chris” Ryu said as they started to catch up to Machinedramon.

    The chase had led the three out of the forest and into a mountainous area. Machinedramon flew into a large cave in the side of a mountain. The three stopped in front of the entrance. “It sure is dark in there” Ryu said as he peered inside. “We need to be careful. Machinedramon could be hiding anywhere. He could try and ambush us” Rei said. “Ok, lets go” Sakura said as they dashed into the cave. Inside, the came across a pathway lined with large torches. “I wonder where that leads” Sakura said. “I don't know, but lets go and check it out” Ryu said. They walked along the dimly lit path.

    Further ahead, Machinedramon landed on the ground and walked into a large chamber room. A long red carpet started from the entrance and spread all the way back to the other end of the chamber. At the end of the carpet was a large throne. But what Chris was surprised to see, was the human on the throne. “Master, I've brought the one you sent me for” Machinedramon said as he dropped Chris in front of the human. “Excellent” the human said as he stood up and walked to Chris. “Along the way, we picked up some unwanted company” Machinedramon continued. “Don't worry, I'll fix that later on” the human said, “But first we need to take care of this one right here.” “Who are you” Chris said. “I am your master, Phyronus. You will do as I say from now on” he responded. “What makes you think I will obey you” Chris snapped. The human pulled a small device out of his pocket and pointed it at Chris. “This” he said as he pushed a button. A strong surge of electricity was sent throughout Chris's body. Chris let out a yell in pain. “Put him in the pit for now” Phyronus said as he walked back to his throne. Machinedramon grabbed Chris and thew him into a deep, dark pit. Chris landed on the rocky ground below with a thud. Machinedramon walked over to his master's side and waited for the other three to arrive.


    “Hey, look at that large door at the end of the path” Ryu said as they were walking. “Maybe that is where they have Chris” Rei said. “Only one way to find out” Sakura said. The three of them pushed open the large door and walked inside the vast chamber. “Ah, so good of you to come” Phyronus said. Machinedramon pulled a lever on the wall and a huge metal gate came down, trapping them in the room. “Who are you and what have you done with Chris” Ryu said as he took a step forward. “Your friend is a little busy at the moment. As for me, I am Phyronus, master of the darkened digimon” Phyronus replied. “Darkened digimon, what does that have to do with Chris” Ryu asked. “Isn't it obvious, Chris is black which means he is a dark digimon. So that places me in control of him” Phyronus said. “He will never take orders from you” Ryu yelled back. Phyronus pushed a button on his device. “I wouldn't be so sure about that” he said. Large metal doors opened up from the sides. “What's going on” Sakura said. Out of the doors came several ultimate level digimon, each as dark as Chris. “Attack” yelled Phyronus as they all came running towards the three.

    Sakura and Rei digivolved and began fighting. Ryu wasn't very good at fighting, so he would try and avoid the other digimon while looking for Chris in the large room. Chris, still in the pit, heard all the commotion. He knew his friends were in trouble, but he also knew he was to small to do anything. “This is my fault, I should have tried to defend myself back there” Chris said to himself. His anger made him digivolve back to Guilmon. His color remained black, but at least he could climb the wall of the pit. Above the pit, Sakura and Rei drove back most of the digimon and aimed their sights on Phyronus. “That was only the beginning, here comes the real action” Phyronus said as he pushed another button. Out of the doors came two mega level digimon. Dark metal Garurumon, and Black WarGreymon. “Finish them off” he said. The two took off towards Rei and Sakura.

    Chris made it all the way to the top of the pit as Ryu found it. “Chris! Your ok” Ryu said as he grabbed Chris and started to crush him in a hug. “Ryu, now isn't the time” Chris said as he broke free. Rei had defeated the WarGreymon as Sakura was fighting the other mega. “Face it, your not even worthy to be in the Garurumon family” said MetalGarurumon. He blasted her with a strong attack and knocked her back. “Can't even put up a fight” he said. Sakura started to get angry at him for calling her a disgrace. She stood up and walked towards MetalGarurumon. “No, your the weak one. I will show you who the better is” Sakura said as she began to glow. “Get him Sakura” Rei yelled. Sakura's silhouette bent back on four paws, but got larger. When the light dissipated, Sakura had digivolved into a MetalGarurumon. “What.. how” MetalGarurumon said with a slight panic. Sakura didn't answer, she charged full force at him and knocked him to the ground. “Who's weak now” Sakura said. A ball of blue light formed in her mouth. She released a massive blue beam that incinerated MetalGarurumon, leaving only his ashes.


    For a moment, everyone was happy for Sakura. But then everyone's attention was brought to Phyronus as he started clapping and descending down the carpet. “You actually managed to defeat my minions. Maybe I missed judged you. That won't happen again” he said as he pulled out the device again. He looked at Chris and smiled a wicked smile. “Chris, come here” Phyronus said in a soft voice. “Have you lost it, Chris will never” Ryu started to say as Chris walked over to Phyronus as commanded. “Chris, what are you doing” Ryu asked in astonishment. “He is simply following orders, like all my servants” Phyronus answered. “Ryu, he's controlling him” Sakura said. “Precisely” Phyronus said as he started to laugh, “This ends for you all right here, Chris digivolve!” They all watched as Chris digivolved to Growlmon, but something was different. Chris had another black aura enveloping him and his eye's were solid white. “Destroy them, destroy them all!” Phyronus ordered as he went back to his chair. “With pleasure, master” Chris responded in a dark voice.

    Rei and Sakura were already to tired from fighting everyone else to fight, so Ryu stepped up. “If you want to hurt them, you'll have to go through me” Ryu said as Chris stared him down. “You pathetic fool, you think you can stop me” Chris responded. Chris started to charge towards Ryu. He rammed his head into Ryu's stomach, knocking the air out of his lungs and sending him flying back. “So much for going through you” Chris said as he was about to give the final blow. Sakura came and tackled Chris to the ground and then jumped back. “I won't let you kill your best friend” Sakura said. “That worthless digimon, my friend. Get real” Chris said, “I'll take you out just like I will him.” Sakura stood in front of Ryu, trying to protect him. Ryu stood up and walked out from behind her. “No Sakura, this is my battle” Ryu said, breathing heavily. While Sakura and Ryu were dealing with Chris, Rei was going to confront the human. Rei went charging towards the him. “I'll show you for possessing my friend” she said, running at top speed. She tackled him to the ground, knocking the device onto the ground in front of them. The two scrambled for the device. Meanwhile, Chris was steadily clawing at Ryu. Ryu was trying to block each blow. “Come on, make a move. You can't hold out much longer weakling” Chris said as he continued his attacks. “Forgive me for this Chris” Ryu said as he found an opening and jabbed Chris in the chest. Chris moved back and grabbed his wound. Ryu followed up with a head butt to the chest, knocking Chris to the ground. Ryu quickly jumped on top of him, pinning him to the ground. “So, you have some fight in you after all”Chris said. He started to struggle, but Ryu had him down hard. “I have had enough of this” Ryu said as he charged up a phyroblast. Chris let out a scream in pain as Ryu blasted him in the face with the attack. After the smoke cleared, Chris laid there on the ground, unresponsive. “I... I killed him” Ryu said as tears welt up in his eyes. Ryu took his claws of Chris's arms and buried his face in them. Chris's eye's shot open and he quickly lunged forward and flipped Ryu on his back. “I knew you would fall for something like that” Chris said as he pinned Ryu to the ground. “Ryu No!” Sakura shouted when she realized Ryu was in serious trouble.


    Rei was finally able to get the control away from the human. She watched as Chris rose his claw finish Ryu. “Goodbye, Ryu” Chris said as he lunged his claw forward. Rei quickly smashed the remote in her hands. Chris stopped millimeters away from Ryu's throat. The color returned to his eyes and he fell off of Ryu and onto the ground, unconscious. Sakura ran over to Ryu. “Ryu! Ryu are you ok” she said in panic. Ryu got up off the ground. “Yeah, I'm ok” he said, “I can't believe he played my emotions like that. That is just dirty.” “It's not his fault, that human is to blame” Sakura said. Ryu's head snapped towards the human, still on the ground after being tackled. “You, you did this” Ryu said as he charged towards the human and grabbed him from off the ground, “Give me one reason why I shouldn't bite your head off right now.” For once, Phyronus was actually frightened. “Answer me” Ryu yelled. “Ryu, calm down” Sakura said while walking up to him, “If you killed him, that wouldn't make you any better.” “But Sakura” Ryu said. Sakura glared at him. “I guess your right” he said, “But what do we do with him.” Chris started to wake up. “Man what happened” he said while rubbing his head, “Hey, when did I digivolve.” He looked around and found the others on the other side of the chamber. He walked up to them and saw the human. “Well, well. Look who's in trouble now” he said. “Even if you do kill me, I will be avenged” Phyronus said. “Shut up” Ryu said, “So what do you think we should do with him Chris.” Chris thought for a while. “I know the perfect place” Chris said as he took Phyronus from Ryu and dropped him in the pit. “Let him have a taste of his own medicine” Chris said while putting a large rock over the pit. Phyronus started to scream. “Let me out. I'm afraid of the darkness” he cried. “He is the master of dark digimon but afraid of the dark, didn't see that coming” Ryu said. They all started to laugh a bit.

    “So how do we get out of here” Chris asked walking back over to the others. “I think I can answer that” Rei said as she lifted the bar and rose the doors. Machinedramon was unconscious on the ground next to her. “Guess he was under control to” Ryu said. They all left the cave and returned to the outside. “Wow, it feels like we have been there forever” Sakura said as she dedigivolved back to Garurumon. “We'll, at least it's over and we can go back to the forest” Rei said as she did the same. “And maybe find some food” Chris added. “Now thats the Chris I know” Ryu said, “Come on everyone.” They all continued on to the forest. After a good hour, they had found a nice spot to stay. Chris and Ryu decided to go and find lunch while Rei and Sakura recovered from their last battle. But unknown to them both, Chris was hungry for something a little different.

    “Hey Ryu, look over there” Chris said as he pointed to a tree with very large apples, “Those look good don't they.” “Yeah, you go get some of them while I go look over here” Ryu said as he walked away, leaving Chris alone. He walked up to the tree that was surprisingly twice as tall as he was. He started to grab branch after branch of the apples and set them on the ground. “Oh boy, can't wait to eat some of these” he said to himself. As he was pulling, a small creature caught his eye. A newly digivolved Veemon was trying to grab an apple on the other side of the tree. The branch was slightly out of reach, so the little Veemon kept trying to jump and grab it. At first Chris was going to give him one of the apples he pulled down already, but as he looked at the digimon, a powerful urge came over him. He didn't know what it was, all he knew is he craved meat and the only source around was the poor defenseless Veemon. Chris slowly and quietly walked around to the Veemon who was completely unaware of his presence. Then, Chris quickly grabbed the digimon and devoured it before it even knew what was happening.

    The feeling went away and Chris quickly grabbed the apples and ran back to the others. He felt horrible for what he just did, but the more he thought about it, the more he enjoyed it. As he came back into sight of the others, they gave him a disappointed look. “What took you so long Chris, we have been waiting for you to come back” Ryu said. “Well, at least he found something” Sakura said. Chris laid the apples in front of his friends. “Wow Chris, where did you find these” Sakura said as she bit into one. “They were on this large tree, twice as big as me” he replied. “Well they sure are good” Ryu said. They all sat, ate, and talked for a good while. Chris hardly ate anything and didn't speak much. He couldn't get the incident off his mind. “Whats wrong Chris, you haven't eaten much” Ryu said when he noticed Chris's behavior. “I'm just not as hungry as I thought I'd be” he said. They continued on until Chris decided to go to sleep a little early. He felt a little better because the nightmares stopped appearing, but he was still feeling bad for what he did. “I sure am glad Chris can get a decent nights sleep now. He looked so miserable every morning” Sakura said. “Yeah, maybe he'll be his normal cheery self from now on” Ryu said. “He sure did seem tense all afternoon though” Rei said as she finished her food. “Now that you mention it, he did seem deep in thought” Sakura said. “Maybe he's thinking about all that's happened today” Ryu added. They continued talking till' nightfall, then went off to sleep.

    The next morning, Chris woke bright and early. His stomach hurt from not eating anything all night. So he ventured into the woods to the large tree that he found the afternoon before. “Ah, food” he said as he started shoving apples in his mouth. He sat down and leaned against the massive tree. He listened to the sounds of the forest for a while, until voices broke the tranquility. “Where do you think he could have gone, it's not like it is that far from home” a voice said. Chris peered around the tree to see and Exveemon and a Veedramon talking. He quietly listened in on their conversation. “I don't know, but we need to find him. He could get hurt, or worse” the Veedramon said wile holding back tears. “Don't worry honey, we'll find our son before long. I'm sure he's ok” Exveemon said while comforting his wife. The couple walked around the tree and found Chris. “Excuse me sir, have you seen our little Veemon” Exveemon asked. “No sir, I haven't” Chris said as he started to sweat. “Ok, thank you” he said. The two left the area. “What, what have I done” Chris said as tears formed in his eyes as well.


    As Chris returned, Sakura was just waking up. “Good morning Chris, sleep well” she said. “Yeah, no nightmares” he said. “That's good to hear” she said as she stretched her legs. Sakura noticed he was all tense and sweaty. “Whats wrong Chris” she asked. “Nothing” he said. “Are you sure” she said. Chris thought for awhile. He knew he would have to tell some one eventually. Sakura looked at him curiously. “No Sakura, I'm not ok” Chris said as he made his mind up, “I need to tell you something, but not here.” “Ok Chris, then where do you want to talk” she asked. Chris signaled her to follow him. They left their friends and walked to the big tree. Chris looked around to see if anyone was there. He then in the same place he did earlier and told Sakura what he did. “You did what” she said in shock. “I don't know why it happened, I was just struck with this sudden hunger and my body acted on it's own” Chris pleaded. “I understand you ate the human out of defense, but this is just plain murder Chris” she said as she paced the ground. “I tried to stop, honest I did” Chris said as he started to cry. Sakura took in a deep breath. “Ok, let us just forget this whole thing happened” she said. “Ok” Chris said while wiping his face. “Just be sure to tell me if it happens again” she said as she headed back to the others. Though she wasn't showing it, Sakura knew exactly what was happening. She had experienced the same feeling long ago. But for Chris, it appeared to be more serious.

    The two made it back before anyone noticed they were gone. They sat down by a tree as Ryu started to wake up. “Good morning you two, how are y'all” he said. “We're doing good. Chris said the nightmares have stopped” Sakura said. “That's great, glad to see things are going back to normal” he said, “Now we just have to get you back to your old color.” Ryu started to chuckle a bit. “I'm gonna go get some food, see you in a couple minutes” Ryu said as he walked into the forest. “Your not going to tell them are you” Chris asked Sakura. “No Chris. You've put Ryu through enough don't you think” she said. “Yeah, almost killing him, twice” he said. “And nearly breaking his heart with all the awful things you said” Sakura added. “Wait, what things” Chris asked. “Oh never mind, but I made my point” she said.

    As Ryu came back, he overheard the two talking. “Do you think the feeling might come back again” Chris asked. “It is possible, but hopefully it was a one time thing” Sakura said. “I just don't want to hurt anyone, especially Ryu” Chris said. “I know what you mean” Sakura said. “I wonder what those two are talking about” Ryu though as he watched. After they finished their talk, Ryu came out of the bushes. “Hey Ryu, how did it go” Chris said. “It went fine, found a stream and an orange tree” Ryu said. “Thats cool” Chris said. Ryu went down and sat next to the others. “I wonder when Rei will wake up, it's not like her to sleep in this late” Ryu said. “Maybe she is just tired, she does do a lot around here” Sakura said. “Not to mention she stopped my rampage twice” Chris added. They all continued to sit there and talk until Rei woke up, which was around noon. “Hey, I think Rei is up” Ryu said. She walked up to the others. “Good morning” she said as she got caught in a yawn. “Well, it's a little late to be morning” Chris said. “Oh my, I must have slept in a bit” she said. “Hardly” he replied. “Well, now that I'm up, let's go get lunch” Rei said.


    That night, after everyone was asleep, Ryu laid on his back staring at the sky. He kept wondering what Sakura and Chris were talking about earlier that morning. “Chris would never intentionally hurt me, would he” Ryu said. Ryu kept thinking until his thoughts nearly put him to sleep. He was almost out, when he heard a sound. He opened his eyes to find Chris was leaving. “I wonder what he's up to this late at night” Ryu thought as he quietly got up and secretly followed Chris. He followed Chris to the apple tree again. He watched as Chris started to climb the tree. “Is he crazy, climbing trees in the midst of the night” Ryu thought as he watched. Chris sat on a large branch at the top of the tree and stared at the full moon. Ryu could hear Chris talking but couldn't make out the words. So, Ryu moved directly under the tree. As he got there, he felt a drop of liquid hit his muzzle. “What the” Ryu whispered as he wiped it off. He looked up at the sky, all was clear. “Where did that come from” he thought. Another one hit him again. That's when he realized Chris was crying. “Why do these things always happen to me” he heard Chris say, “I wish that I never met that human, it's all her fault I'm this way.” “Poor Chris” Ryu thought as he heard his friend cry. “I don't even know why the others hang around me. After all the times I've almost killed them, they still stay with me. I don't deserve them” he continued. The sun started to rise and Chris began to climb down the tree. Ryu took off running. When Chris got down, he stopped and looked around. Thought he didn't see Ryu, he caught his scent. “Ryu” Chris said as he realized his friend had been spying on him.

    As Chris made it back, he saw Ryu curled up in his spot. “Hmm, maybe I was wrong” Chris thought as he looked at Ryu. Chris laid down and tried to get a little sleep before the others woke up. As he fell asleep, Sakura woke up. She got up and stretched like she did every morning. Ryu slowly looked up to see where Chris was. He was relieved to see him asleep and happy to see Sakura awake. He got up and walked over to her. “Sakura, I think there is something wrong with Chris” he said. “Why do you say that” she replied. Ryu told her what had happened. Sakura didn't look surprised. “Sakura, you know something don't you” Ryu said as he stared into her eyes. He could see guilt all over her face. “No, no it's nothing” Sakura said as she started to walk off. “Sakura, tell me” Ryu said. “I can't, I promised Chris I would keep it a secret” she said. Ryu didn't say anything. Luckily for Sakura, Chris began to wake up.

    “Good morning Chris” Sakura said as she eagerly left Ryu side. “Hey Sakura” Chris replied with a yawn. “Whats wrong” she asked. “Ah, I'm just a little tired. I didn't get much sleep last night” Chris said. Rei woke up afterwards and they decided to go and eat together. They all sat in a circle and shared what they collected. For some reason, there was long period of silence between everyone. Rei decided to break it. “Why are you guys so quiet today, usually we're knee deep in conversation about this time” she said. “I guess we don't have anything to talk about” Ryu said, “Right, Chris and Sakura?” Sakura didn't answer. “No, I can't think of anything to talk about” Chris said trying to keep his composure. “Is there something wrong between you three” Rei asked. “No, nothing is wrong” Ryu said with a bit of sarcasm. “I agree with Ryu” Chris added, “I don't think there is anything wrong.” They finished there lunch and sat there for a good while. “I'm going into the forest, be back later” Ryu said as he stormed off. “Okay, what is really going on. Ryu doesn't normally act like this, and you two are never this quiet” Rei said when Ryu left. The two exchanged glances for a moment. “Well” Rei said. Chris nodded his head.
    “Chris has been having more problems” Sakura said. “What kind of problems” Rei asked. “Well, the other day when I was gather those apples, something happened” Chris said. Rei looked at him. “What happened” Rei asked. Chris went silent for a moment. “He ate another digimon” Sakura answered for him. Rei was shocked. “Chris, you ate another digimon! Why would you do such an awful thing” Rei said. “I don't know why or how it even happened. All I know is I was hungry and the Veemon was at the wrong place at the wrong time” Chris said. “Does Ryu know about this” Rei asked. “No, but he is on to us” Sakura said. “Well, we can't let him know, it'd break his heart” Rei said. “I know, he looks up to me. What would he think if he knew I was a murderer” Chris said.

    Ryu was angrily storming through the forest. “I can't believe Chris would hide something from me” he said as he kicked a rock. He sat down on a large boulder in of a small stream. As he sat, he listened to the trickling of the water splashing against the small rocks in the stream. It was a warm and sunny day, so the air was warm and dry. Before long, Ryu let go of his anger and found himself dozing off on the rock. After a little nap, Ryu woke up to find the sun was starting to go down. “Wow, I sure did sleep long” Ryu thought as he got up to head back. He walked back through the forest and found his way back. The others were just sitting around doing nothing. “Hey guys” Ryu said as he walked up to the others. “Hey Ryu, are you feeling better” Rei asked. “Yeah” Ryu said, “I shouldn't have stormed off like that. But now I'm ok.” “Well, now that your back, it's time for lunch” Rei said. “Why don't you to go together, while Chris and I go another way” Sakura said. “If Ryu wants to” Rei said. “Ok, let's go Rei” Ryu walked back into the forest. “I'm going to stay with Chris, I'd hate for him to snap on Ryu” Sakura whispered to Rei. “I kind of figured that” Rei said with a chuckle. “Rei come on” Ryu yelled through the trees. “I'm coming” she yelled back, “Be careful Sakura.”

    Sakura and Chris went towards the stream to catch fish. “Well, so far so good” Chris said nervously as he impaled a fish and threw it ashore. “Do you even know what triggered it” Sakura asked. “Well, I remember I looked at the Veemon trying to grab an apple. I was about to offer some assistance when everything went out of control” Chris said. “Maybe if you just don't look at anyone you'll be fine” Sakura suggested. “Yeah, that might work” Chris said. The two continued fishing while Rei and Ryu searched for anything besides fruit. “Well, no luck over here. I'm beginning to wonder if there is anything other than fruit in this forest” Ryu said. “I'm sure there is, we just have to keep looking” Rei said. As they walked, Ryu started to kick some pebbles. “What are you doing” Rei asked. “I don't know, just passing time I guess” Ryu responded as he kicked one really far. Rei started to join him. Soon enough, they made a competition out of it. “Ha, you'll have to kick harder Rei to beat me” Ryu said. “Oh yeah” Rei said. Rei kicked as hard as she could and sent one flying out of sight. “Top that” she said with a laugh. Ryu found a large rock and kicked it straight into the bushes. “How was that” Ryu said. A loud roar was let out into the air. Out of the bushes came a Monochromon.


    “Uh oh” Rei said as she paused, “I think you angered it.” The Monochromon let out another roar and charged towards Ryu. Ryu narrowly escaped the attack. But the Monochromon came back for a second attempt. He rammed Ryu in the back and sent him flying forward. Ryu hit a tree and de-digivolved. “Ryu, are you ok” Rei yelled. “Yeah, I'm ok” he said as he managed to get up. “I'll show you for hurting my friend” Rei said as she ran at Monochromon and stabbed him in the side with one of her shurikens. The digimon let out a roar in pain and ran off. Ryu walked up to Rei. “Well, at least he didn't hurt you that bad” Rei said. “I guess it is my own fault” Ryu said ,”I did kick that rock.” “Oh Ryu” Rei said with a laugh. Then they continued on their search for food.

    After everyone found enough food to share amongst each other, they all met back up and began to eat. “Finally, something other than fruit” Ryu said as he ate a fish. “Yeah, I was getting tired of that” Chris said. “So why did you de-digivolve” Sakura asked. “Rei and I had a run in with a Monochromon” Ryu said. “Well, at least your ok” she said. “It looks like you did a good job with the fishing” Ryu said. “Yeah, you can say that” Chris said with a laugh. As Chris locked eyes with Ryu, he felt the force that hit him a couple days ago. He dropped the food in his claws and grabbed his stomach. “Chris are you ok” Ryu asked looking at his friend. Chris let out a low growl. “Chris...” Ryu said as he got up and walked to Chris. Sakura shot forward and knocked Ryu out of the way as Chris attacked. Sakura let out a howl in pain as Chris's massive jaws grabbed her. “Chris, what are you doing” Ryu yelled. Chris instantly dropped Sakura and looked at Ryu. Then he looked at Sakura. “No, no not again” Chris said as tears filled his eyes. Then, Chris scrambled up and fled into the woods.

    Sakura came to and stood up. “No Sakura, stay down” Rei said as she treated the bite wounds. “Is Ryu ok” she said. “Am I ok, he bit you Sakura” Ryu said. “He was aiming for you Ryu” Rei said. “Rei No!” Sakura said. “Sakura, he needs to know” Rei argued. “I guess your right Rei” Sakura sighed. “Will one of you please tell me what is going on” Ryu asked. “Ryu, Chris is having a problem of eating other digimon. He didn't want to tell you because he was afraid of what you'd think of him” Rei said. “I'm sorry we had to hide it from you, but we just wanted you two to stay together” Sakura said as she stood up. “I knew there was something he was hiding. Well, we better go find him” Ryu said. “But Ryu, he might eat you the first chance he gets” Sakura said walking in front of him. “Listen, I have known Chris all my life. He has saved my butt to many times for me not to forgive him. So if I die in trying to help him, so be it” Ryu said as he walked into the forest.


    “I am a monster” Chris said as he sat on a log with his face buried in his claws. “I almost killed Ryu and probably mortally wounded Sakura” he said to himself. He wiped Sakura's blood from his lips. “Ryu probably hates me now” he said. He sat there and listened to the sounds of the forest. Then, something caught his attention. He heard a voice, calling his name. “What was that” he said as he stood up. Then he heard it again. “That sounds like Ryu” he said. “Chris! Where are you” Ryu hollered, “Please come out, I just want to talk.” Chris thought about it. If he looked at Ryu, he might kill him. Chris decided to stay in the foliage as his friends walked by him. But as Sakura walked by, she picked up the scent of blood. But not just any blood, it was her own. “Chris, I know your here. Come out, we aren't mad at you” Sakura said as she looked towards the scent, scanning for Chris. “I can't come out, I might hurt Ryu” he said from his hiding place. Ryu started to walk towards Chris. Chris looked out to see what they were doing. Again he looked at Ryu, and again he felt the force. He instantly lunged out for Ryu and grabbed him. “Ryu” Sakura yelled. Chris let out an evil laugh as he looked down at Ryu who was struggling to break free. Sakura quickly ran forward and bit Chris's arm, releasing Ryu to the ground. Chris looked at his friends, then looked at the bite mark. “I.. I'm sorry” he said. He then ran away, deeper into the forest.

    “Now I'm sure he hates me” Chris said to himself as he ran. He didn't know where he was running to, nor did he care. “I can never show my face to them again. I'll find a new place to live, stay alone till' I die and not harm another soul as long as I live.” Chris's thoughts distracted him and caused him to run into a tree. “Ow, my head” he said as he rubbed the bruise he made. As he stood there, he heard voices. “Leave me alone, I didn't do anything to bother you!” said a tiny voice. Chris looked around the tree and saw a teenage human throwing rocks at a small Agumon. “What are you going to do about it” he said as he continued his relentless assault. The tiny digimon started to run away, but was given chase by the human. “Where you going chicken, I ain't finished with you yet” the boy said as he ran. Chris was infuriated by this sight. The feeling returned to him again. But this time, Chris willingly accepted it.

    The chase eventually led in front of the tree Chris was behind. Chris didn't wait for a second opportunity. As soon as the boy was in range, Chris grabbed the boys leg with his tail and held him inverted in the air. The boy started screaming. “Let me go! Help, please! Someone!” he cried. “Oh, I'll let you go. I'll let you go right down my throat” Chris said with an evil snicker. The little Agumon watched as Chris devoured the human. His eyes widened in fear, and he ran away. “Darn, there went desert” Chris mumbled as he wiped the blood from his face. He then walked down the path the Agumon ran in search of more food.


    “Come on you guys, we have to catch up with him” Sakura said as she ran. Ryu digivolved so he could keep up. “Where do you think he went” he said running beside Sakura. “Anywhere to quench his thirst for blood. There is a large village at the forest edge, he most likely went there” she said. “I hope he doesn't make it there, he might get into serious trouble” Rei said as she ran. They all continued on their search for their blood-hungry friend. When they came upon the village entrance, they heard screams and cries throughout the area. “We're to late” Ryu said as he scanned the destruction for his friend. “Well at least we know he's here, let's go” Sakura said as they dashed into the village. As they ran, they saw hundreds of people being treated for wounds Chris caused. “Chris did all this” Ryu said as he slowed down and looked at all the casualties. “Come on Ryu, or he'll hurt twice this many” Sakura said as she stopped to get Ryu.

    Further ahead, Chris was destroying huts and devouring their inhabitants. A large group of men came at Chris with ropes and spears. But try as they might, they couldn't get a hold on him. Chris started to spray them with fire as they attacked. Then Chris felt a claw grab his shoulder. “Chris, stop” said a voice behind him. Chris turned around to find Ryu and the others. “Ryu, what are you doing here” Chris asked in amazement. “I can't let you roam around in your condition, you need to stay with us” he replied. Chris started crying. “But I nearly ate you and almost killed Sakura, why would you want to be around me” Chris said. “We don't blame you, we blame what ever is wrong with you” he said. Ryu gave Chris a hug and Chris started to cry in his arms. “Let's go Chris” Ryu said.

    Seeing Chris's rampage was over, the village leader came out of hiding. “Hold it right there” he said, “So you think you can just attack us and leave. You destroyed half our village, ate over one-hundred of our residents and wounded hundreds more.” “Over a hundred!” Sakura thought in amazement. “Sir, we are deeply sorry for our friends actions. He isn't well” Rei said, walking up to the human. “Sorry won't bring them back now will it” he said, “I order that beast be put to death immediately!” A group of humans twice as big came towards the two Growlmon. “I won't let you take him” Ryu said as he made a wall of fire and ran with Chris to safety. The two ran back to a spot in the woods. “I think we got away” Ryu said as he sat down to catch his breath. “It doesn't matter, they will find me” Chris said while still crying, “You might as well do them a favor and kill me now.” “Chris! I would never do such a thing” Ryu said, “Come on Chris, don't beat yourself up like that. I'm, sure we can pull through this.” “Yeah, us two. The others probably hate me now” Chris said. “That's not true, now your being silly” Ryu said. Sakura was about to walk in, but stopped. “Why am I even here, Chris can't be saved” she said to herself. She started to walk off but stopped, “But is this really worth stopping our friendship?”


    Rei came onto the scene a couple of minutes later. “The humans are coming, we need to leave” she said. Rei looked at Chris who didn't budge. “Come on Chris, they'll kill you if your caught” she said. “Why does it matter, I killed a lot of them. So there just returning the favor” he said. “I can't seem to get him over this, he keeps talking like that” Ryu said. Chris got up and started to walk away. “Where are you going” Ryu said. “I don't know” he said as he de-digivolved, ”Somewhere far away. Maybe to feed so other blood-hungry digimon” he replied. “Please don't go Chris, we'll help you. It doesn't have to be this way” Rei said. Ryu started to cry. “So is this it, is this how are friendship ends” Ryu said in anger. Chris stopped and turned around. “Ryu, I'll always be your friend. I just don't want to hurt you anymore” he said. Ryu turned and walked away. “Rei” Chris said. “Yes Chris” she replied. “Tell Sakura I'm sorry and take care of Ryu” he said as he started to walk again. Sakura watched as he got farther and farther away. She couldn't stand it any longer. She burst through the bushes. “Chris!” she yelled. Chris turned around. “Sakura” he said, “Why are you here?” “I don't want you to go. Please stay with us” she said starting to cry. “You...” Chris started to say, “You really want me to stay.” “Of course we do, we're your best friends” Sakura said. “Ok” he said with a smile and began to walk back.

    Ryu was angrily storming through the forest. “Here I am again. Getting angry over Chris” Ryu said to himself. Ryu got tired of walking and sat down. He leaned his head against a tree and closed his eyes. “Ryu” he heard someone call. He looked up. “Ryu” he heard again. “That's Chris!” Ryu said as he got up. He began to walk to the source of the voice. When they came within eye sight of each other, Chris ran up to Ryu and hugged his leg. “Ryu, I'm sorry I almost threw our friendship away. Please forgive me” Chris said while crying. The others walked up to the two. Ryu bent down and picked Chris up. “Of course I will” Ryu said while giving him a hug. “Ryu.. your choking.. me” Chris said as Ryu crushed him. Everyone but Chris started to laugh.

    After Chris and Ryu's reunion, the group left the forest and ventured out onto the open plain. “I guess its not safe in the forest anymore, considering we have to human villages after us” Chris said as they walked. “Yeah, well maybe we can find some other place to live” Sakura said. They continued walking. After a couple of hours, they came upon a small town. “Hey, whats that” Chris asked while looking at the structures ahead. “I don't know, let's go see” Sakura said. “It looks like a village” Rei said as they continued. “Maybe they have food” Ryu said, getting his hopes up. The four entered the town and were amazed to see all the humans and digimon in the area. “This place is big” Ryu said looking around. Chris started to growl at the sight of all the humans. Sakura nudged him a bit to get his attention. “Chris, please try to keep yourself under control” she said. “Fine, just keep those humans away from me” he said angrily. They walked around until they came across a digimon tending a shoppe. “Hello sir, do you mind telling us where we are. Where a bit lost” Rei asked the digimon. “Why yes, this is the east side of town” he said. Rei gave him a blank look. “I'm guessing your not from around here” he said. “No, we're from the forest” Rei said. “My, my that must have been an awful long walk” he said in surprise. “Yes, it was kind of long” she said. “Well, if you need any information, you can go to that large building over there. They should be able to help you if need be” he said. “Thank you for your kindness” Rei said. With that, they left the shoppe and headed for the building.
    As they entered the building, they were greeted by a friendly Jijimon sitting behind a counter. “Ah, welcome visitors. May I help you” he said. Sakura walked up to the digimon. “Yes hello. We are new here and were wondering where exactly we are” she said to the cheerful digimon. “This is the town of Terra” he said. “Terra?” Sakura said, “Never heard it.” “Is there anything else I can help with” he said. “Yes, do you know of a place to stay the night at” Sakura said. “Hmm, there is an Inn at the farthest end of town for visitors, I'm sure they would let you stay there for the night” Jijimon said. Jijimon opened a drawer and pulled out a map. “Here you go, every place in town is marked on this map” he said. Chris walked up and took it since Sakura didn't have any hands. “Thank you” they both said as they exited the building.

    “Ok, if my navigating skills are good, this should be the place” Chris said as he folded the map. “Are you sure this is the place” Ryu asked. Chris looked around. “Hey, theres a sign right there saying 'Inn', so this must be the place” Chris said. The building looked a little old and ran down. But voices could be heard on the inside, so it was still occupied. “Well, shall we go in” Sakura said. “I'll go first” Rei said as she opened the door. They all walked into the lobby area. “It don't look that bad on the inside” Chris said. Chris looked around the room till' his eye caught something shiny on a desk. “Ooh, I wonder what that is” he thought as he walked up to desk. A sign on the wall read “Ring for service”. So, curiously, Chris rang the bell. A callable of footsteps was heard from up stairs. “Coming” said a female voice. The others came to the desk where Chris was standing as a young girl descended down the stairs.

    “Welcome to the Terra Town Inn, can I help you” she asked as she went behind the desk. “Yes, we were told travelers could stay the night here” Rei said. “Why certainly” she said as she opened a book on the desk. She skimmed the book, then looked at the four. “I am sorry to say, we only have one room” she said. “Thats ok, we'll all share it” Rei said. “Ok then” she said. She then tapped the bell three times. The four exchanged glances. Then from the stairs came a Floramon. “Floramon, can you take them to their room” she asked. “Ok, right this way please” she said as she led them up the stairs.

    As they reached the top of the stairs, Floramon led them down a small hallway to a door. “Here is your room, I hope you enjoy your stay” Floramon said as she unlocked the door and let them in. Inside were two beds, a nightstand in between the two beds, and a large rug that covered the rest of the floor. “This looks n