Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

Netto sighs as he walks past at least two crowded cabins until he comes across an empty one. “Netto-kun, I hope you finish that algebra homework once you’re back from the arcade,” Rockman reminded. “You have a test on that subject next week!”

The brunette rolled his eyes at his Navi’s chastising, “Don’t remind me, Rockman. If Meiru-chan wants to do something after the arcade, then I’ll do the homework later. If not, I’ll head straight home and finish it.”

“Are you saying that so you can prolong the trip?” Rockman laughed. Netto felt the train shift as started to leave the subway. Before he can exuberate his sigh at his Navi’s comment, it is cut off short by a deafening blast. The car violently rocked and the brunette was thrown forward. His breath caught in his throat and was dazed because of how fast the explosion happened. His head hits the cushion and flames start to engulf him and his PET.

“NETTO-KUN~!” Rockman desperately cried.

He had to get away then everything faded to black.

Netto slowly got up and sat on the ground. His spiky brown hair was free as his locks went all over the place, his orange vest was slightly torn from the explosion, his black shorts with yellow highlights were thankfully unscathed, and his black socks and orange shoes were a bit dirty and scraped.

The brunette was confused, why was he alive? “W-what happened? I was on the train that was heading to the arcade. I heard an explosion and the last thing I heard was Rockman’s scream. What is going on?” He puts his hand on his forehead and quickly discovers that his bandana is missing. “My bandana, where is it?” He flinches and sees that his white T-shirt is cut and blood is slowly oozing out from under the sleeve. He rolls it and finds that his left arm was cut. “Shoot, ow… I better call for help. My PET! Where… Rockman!”

He searched in vain for his missing blue device but he could not find it. He tried under the cushions but had no luck. He cried in vain as he was utterly alone. No one was around for miles in the empty tunnels of the subway. What should he do? Wait for help or look for a way out.

The first option was safe but it could be hours or even days until help arrived. The other option was risky, if he goes out and search for help there is a risk he could get lost and never return home. He had these two options but chose the latter option despite the obvious risk.

He climbs out of the charred cabin and notices that it is the only one for miles. He chooses north and continues to walk on the side of the railroad track. The empty and soundless tunnel was very unnerving. He ponders if anyone would be searching for him. Or would they already declare him dead and set a funeral for him without a body present? He shook his head as he needed to stay positive. There will be a way out. There must be a way out. To his surprise, he found a train station but it seemed abandoned. No one around in sight. There was hope.

He found a hidden ladder and climbed up to the station. He climbs up the stairs of a long rundown escalator and heads towards the light.

However, to his utter confusion, the scenery shows the sight of a beach with tall grass and blooming flowers. “W-where am I? This isn’t Japan. Did I get suddenly transported to Jawaii?” He looks back and notices how old the train station is. The sign was crooked and ready to fall from the board and vegetation was growing around it.

“Hey, what are you doing here?”

Netto quickly turned around and saw two girls confused about why he was there in the first place.

Chapter Text

Netto was shocked when she saw two girls standing in there in utter confusion.

“Hello, I’m asking you. What are you doing here?”

“I-I’m sorry, I-I’m trying to call for help!” Netto answered. He takes a closer look at the two girls. The first one had long blonde hair with symmetrical bangs that parted away and resembled angel wings and striking blue eyes. She wore a light blue hoodie jacket, jean shorts with black tights, and knee-long matching boots.

The second girl was about his age and about Meiru’s height. She had shoulder-length brown hair with red violet streaks and red violet eye color. Her clothes were an ice cream-shaped cone hat with wings attached to the back and three hearts sticking out from the tip in different shades of red. A white shirt with two stripes of the same shade of red on the chest and sleeves, black shorts, grey ankle socks, and white shoes with a red violet heart and match soles. What caught Netto’s attention was there was a pair of wings attached to her back.

“Wait you were calling for help?” the winged brunette asked, “But that train station was abandoned for at least a decade. Are you saying that you just came out of there?”

“Yes, I’m not lying I just need help and I need a phone to call home,” Netto pleaded.

“Okay,” the blond girl cautioned, “sure we’ll tell Dr. Cerys about this and get you some help.”

“Ah! Thank you!” Netto exalted. He was glad that the two girls believed him.

- Beach Flora Town [North Area (Police Station)] -

“What do you mean you don’t have any records?” Netto cried in disbelief.

“I’m sorry, but we tried calling the numbers that you have provided for us; it seems that they go directly to voicemail,” a police officer informed.

“Have you tried calling my Papa’s work number?” Netto suggested.

“We tried that but no such luck,” another police officer with a beard answered. “We tried looking up that number and there is no company called the Ministry of Science.”

“No way…” Netto lamented. He sunk further into his chair in disbelief. “I have no idea where I am, no way to contact anyone I know, and I have no way to go home.”

“Now, now,” the police officer assured. “Why don’t you find a place to stay and we’ll try our best to sort things out to contact your loved ones.”

“A place to stay,” Netto huffed, “Officer, I just survived a train explosion and don’t know anyone in this town to stay in until I return home.” He then stopped when he realized that he accidentally yelled at the officer integrating him. “I’m sorry, I didn’t mean to get angry at you.”

“It’s alright, son. I can understand that you are frustrated with this whole situation of being in a new land with no contact with your folks. It’s pretty nerve-wracking. Why don’t you get something to eat to soothe your worries?”

“Well, I am pretty hungry, I haven’t eaten yet,” Netto commented. “So okay.”

After the integration, Netto was sitting quietly at a table in the break room staring at a freshly prepared cup of ramen. The emptiness of the room amplified how lonely he felt. He didn’t know anyone here and desperately needed some comfort.

Meanwhile, another police officer, a female with auburn hair was chatting with Dr. Cerys. She was an adult woman with an average build, fair skin with long, light brown hair with blonde highlights. Her accessories were some flower hairclips (a tulip and a daisy) and square-rimmed glasses. Her clothes were a yellow sweater under a white lab coat, a light blue pencil skirt, white ankle socks, and white and black shoes.

“So what is going to happen to the boy?” she asked.

“We’re just looking for someone to take care of him until a relative comes and picks him up.”

The brunette girl looked at saw a glimpse of Netto silently eating his cup of ramen in the break room. She knew that look well; it was the same reaction she had when she heard the news that her parents had died. She burst into tears after she went to live with her aunt. She looks up and pulls on her aunt’s coat. “Hey, Auntie.”

“Can we take him in?”

“Are you serious, Draga?” the blonde girl exasperated, “We barely know this guy!”

“Yeah, but he has no place to go, Angel!” Draga argued, “I just feel bad for him. Please, Auntie, we need to help him.”

“Alright,” Dr. Cerys relented. “However, we’ll keep him until we can locate his parents or other relatives.”

“Um, Netto.”

“The brunette looked up and saw the auburn-haired officer accompanied by Dr. Cerys, Draga, and Angel.

“These people have volunteered to help with your living situation.”

“Really! You guys will help me?”

“Of course, because it’s the right thing to do in this situation.” Draga reasoned, “Oh, but where are my manners? I’m Draga, the blonde girl who is my friend and roommate, Angel. And Dr. Cerys is my aunt.”

“Nice to meet you, Netto,” Dr. Cerys greeted.

“Thank you,” Netto smiled. Maybe he wasn’t lonely after all, there were kind people in this world as well.

- Beach Flora Town [West Area (Cerys Residence)] -

Netto was transported by car to the west area of Beach Flora Town, which seems to be an ideal place for humans. They were heading towards the West Area, which contains the suburbs. An ideal place to raise families. The car stops in front of a two-story beach house that seemed recently renovated. The roof had straw covering it, and a front porch with a bench hanging from chains with some cushions (one light blue and the other red) with follower patterns on it. The exterior walls were white. “Whoa, this is a very impressive, beach house!” Netto commented.

“Glad you like it,” Dr. Cerys smiled. Everyone gets out of her blue minivan and enters the house. The front door leads to a big living room. The walls were also white and decorated with some beach-themed paintings, small surfboards, and seashells, but the ceiling was light blue was an attached ceiling fan. The wooden floors completed the look. The furniture was two couches (one light blue and the other red-violet). There was a circular glass table in the middle and a flat-screen TV attached to the wall with a DVD and a VCR below it.

An attached walking kitchen was close to the living room with white tiled floors, pale pink walls, and a white ceiling. It was slightly narrow due to all of the cabinets and necessary kitchen appliances (an oven, a microwave, a sink, etc.). Netto was surprised they had a dishwasher.

He noticed that there were stairs past the kitchen table that led to the second floor and to the left there was a hallway that led to a few rooms past the kitchen.

“This place seems huge, but where do I sleep?”

“I have just the room,” Draga suggested. Netto follows the winged girl to a room with pale blue walls with star and seashell patterns. There were cabinets on both sides of a bed with light blue sheets and white pillows, wooden drawers, and a closet to put his clothes in (if had brought some).

“Thank you,” Netto thanked while tugging on his left sleeve which bandages can be seen underneath. His wound was treated when he was at the police station.

“You can rest here until dinner is ready.” Draga then closed the door behind her to give Netto space. He lays down on the bed, tears staining the pillow due to how lonely he is.

The night, Dr. Cerys cooked up some delicious spaghetti for dinner. Netto blankly stared at the dish as it reminded him of Papa. Spaghetti, especially his mother’s meat spaghetti, was his favorite. He silently consumes his dish in silence.  Angel had already downed a piece of garlic bread, while Draga was wiping some spaghetti sauce off her mouth with a napkin.

“Draga,” Dr. Cerys started, “Why don’t you and Angel take Netto around town for a tour tomorrow?”

“Uh, sure,” Draga answered. “You have work tomorrow right?”

“Unfortunately yes,” Dr. Cerys replied. “Though I trust you can take care of yourselves?”

“Of course,” Angel smiled, “We’ll be extra careful.”

Later that night, Draga invited Netto and Angel to the huge backyard that had a pool and oversees most of Beach Flora Town. “Wow, look at the view!”

“I’m glad that you like it,” Angel smiled. “I was amazed by the view too when I first visited Dr. Cerys’s place.”

Netto was in deep thought, “Your place looks great but I want to go home.”

“Well, what we overheard from the officers is that you were from Japan right?”

“But there was no record of you or any family members that live in Japan,” Angel pointed out. “There doesn’t seem to be a Ministry of Science organization when the police looked it up.”

“I know this is crazy since we just know each other, but if there’s no Ministry of Science then I’m from a different world,” Netto confessed.

“Huh? A different world?” Angel pondered.

“You haven’t heard of the Beyondard Theory?”

“Nope.”

“Well, it was developed and theorized by my grandfather, Tadashi Hikari,” Netto explained. “It details the existence of multiple worlds parallel to my own. It was proven true when I was sent to a world ravaged by war due to the battle of two powerful beasts called the Cyber Beasts.”

“That’s pretty cool, so you’re saying that you came from another world that is parallel to ours?” Draga asked in amazement.

“Yeah,” Netto answered, “Though I didn’t know that multiple Beyondards exist.”

“So which other world did you come from?” Angel asked.

“I came from a world where everything is connected to the Internet and everyone has a PET which is short of Personal Terminal. Inside those devices, they contain NetNavis. They fight viruses to protect the Net from evil people that wish to harm others.”

“NetNavis? PETs? Well, we have that type of technology here but it is not as advanced as yours,” Draga explained. “We don’t have every device connected to the Net like weighing scales and toilets.”

“Actually, we have a network on a lot of things that you wouldn’t imagine,” Netto recalled. “I remember plugging into a tree behind Meiru-chan’s house.”

“Really?” Angel asked incredulously. “You’re not joking are you?”

“Nope, it’s the truth.” Netto answered, “Though if that’s the case, do you mean that Navis and PETs are luxuries here?”

“Yeah, but most of our friends have a NetNavi, so we have an experimental area in which we can freely use our Navis to walk in the real world.” Draga explained, “I heard it from my aunt. She is trying to commercialize it so Navis can come to our world and fight alongside us.”

“Really, that’s cool! But based on what you are describing, don’t you mean that you have a Dimensional Area?” Netto clarified, “In my home world, we used that term to describe a type of technology that can materialize NetNavis and Viruses from the cyber world.”

“Dimension Area? That seems like a good name for my aunt’s new invention,” Draga smiled. “I’ll inform her about that term when she gets home from work tomorrow.”

Angel gets up from her spot and stretches. “Whelp, I’m going to bed. See you tomorrow!” She waves goodbye as she goes back to the house.  

“Hey Draga-chan, thanks for helping me find a place to live. I can’t thank you enough,” Netto thanked.

“No problem, Netto,” Draga replied. “And don’t worry, we’ll help you return to your home world.”

A feeling of hope bubbled inside of Netto. As Draga goes to join Angel back inside the house, the brunette looks back at the beautiful scenery. He had no choice but to wait. For now, he had to adjust to his new life in this magical world.

He hoped that everyone didn’t quickly write him off as dead.

Chapter Text

The next day, Draga and Angel show Netto around Beach Flora Town. Netto notes that the town was divided into five different sections.

North Area, in which people can easily find a job and pursue their dreams in whatever field they choose. It was very urbanized and a few skyscrapers off in the distance. The most well-known area is the Technology Development for the Future or TDF for short. This is where Dr. Cerys is currently working.

The West Area was a mostly residential area that contained the suburbs. This was an ideal place to raise a family. Netto notes that a beautiful flower only grows in this area; it is known as a Rainbow Glory. He had never seen this color before in his home world. He notes that this flower resembles a regular Morning Glory only white but in certain lighting and angles, it looks multicolored.

The East Area was an area in which you could hang out with family and/or friends. It contains juice bars, a colorful amusement park, a local arcade, a movie theater, and a stadium that is well-known for holding various events.

The South Area is where people train and hone their skills. However, this is the most infamous section due to the high crime rate. The local police would hold various cash rewards to those who can take them down even the most infamous criminals.

Finally was the Central Area; which connects the four other sections. The most notable detail is their famous billboards that advertise those four sections. It was some sort of liminal area in which you traverse from one section to the next.

Netto was currently in the Central Area and sitting on one of the various benches. He looks over and sees Draga talking to someone over a cell phone. It was weird seeing someone using a mobile device to contact someone that doesn’t contain a NetNavi in it. He had to remind himself that a P.E.T. and a NetNavi is a luxury that not everyone can afford in this world.

Draga removes her magenta device from her ear with a pleased look. “I just got off the phone with R.C. She’ll be coming with Ruby and Frost.”

“That’s great,” Angel smiled. “It’s been a while since we hung out.”

“The last time was two weeks ago,” Draga recalled.

Netto glances at some kids conjuring fire, ice, or electricity. He was amazed; he didn’t know that this world had people that could use magic.

“Hey, Draga-chan? I’ve seen a lot of people using elemental powers, can I get some?”

“You mean, you don’t have them in your world?”

“No, we don’t. In fact, magic doesn’t exist the same way in your world,” Netto replied. “To compensate for it we have advanced technology. NetNavis can use different moves based on the different types, although it would be cool making fire out of thin air.”

“Well, you’re in luck, Netto,” Draga smiled. “You can have magical powers in this world. People who have and utilize elemental magic are called Magic Users. But we’ll teach you the basics later.” She then looks and sees three familiar faces in the distance. “Ruby, Frost, R.C., over here!”

The three children went over to the group and greeted themselves.

“Hey, Draga, Angel!” Ruby greeted. “You must be Netto. Draga told us, you were taken in because you were unable to contact your home, right?”

Ruby had long brown hair, rusty red eyes, and fair skin. Her clothes were a red scarf around her neck in which her red diamond necklace was seen underneath. A red hoodie jacket, a blue skirt with black leggings underneath, black socks, and red and black shoes.

Frost had shoulder-length brown hair with bangs that almost covered his right eye, slightly pale skin, and cedar brown eyes with a grayish tint. He wore a cyan hoodie jacket with a matching scarf around his neck, slightly faded jeans, and white shoes with cyan soles.

Finally was R.C. Her shoulder-length hair was dark blue, lime green eyes, and slightly tanned skin. Her clothes were in a white tee shirt with four blue stripes in different hues on the chest area and sleeves, a yellow bracelet on the left wrist, a dark blue skirt with blue leggings and cyan highlights, white socks, and dark blue shoes.

“I’m Ruby Unido!” Ruby beamed in her introduction.

“Hey, I’m Frost Kumo,” Frost introduced though his tone was flat when he said it.

“And I’m R.C.,” R.C. added.

“Nice to meet you all!”

“Why don’t we all go to the East Area,” Ruby suggested. “It’s a great place for everyone to hang out. You get the wind down, while we tour you around our humble town.”

“To be honest, it’s more of a city than a town,” Netto commented.

“Well, we don’t have a huge population so that’s why we don’t count as one.” Frost clarified, “In order to identify as one we need at least 50,000 inhabitants. We have at least an eighth of that requirement at beast during the busy months.”

“So, it’s like a tourist destination?”

“Sort of, since it is pretty popular during the summer months but we’re in the middle of the spring.”

“Wait, spring?” Netto said shocked, “But that’s impossible, it was close to summer back home. Could it be that time follows differently here?”

“Uh, what are you talking about Netto?” R.C. asked.

“I don’t know if Draga-chan or Angel-chan have told you but I’m from a different world,” Netto explained. “One that is fully connected to the internet.”

“Netto told us last night,” Draga confirmed. “Apparently, he comes from a world where everything is connected to the World Wide Web, literally.”

“You serious even items that you wouldn’t think twice to consider like plug-in ports in plush dolls?” Ruby asked.

“Yup, back home, there are certain plush dolls that hold networks for Navis to hang out inside,” Netto explained. “One that is fully connected to the internet.”

“This seems like an interesting conversation, why don’t we head out to East Area’s Chroma Juice Bar?” Frost suggested, “We can go there and talk more.”

“But first, Netto needs a wardrobe change,” Ruby pointed out. She was blunt with her comment. Although rude to some, it was true. Netto’s only clothes were torn and slightly burned from the train explosion. “Why don’t we go to Strelitzia Mall, first? They have a decent collection of clothes for you to try on?”

- East Area [Strelitzia Mall] -

It took a while before they found a clothing store that sold clothes that were suitable for boys that were around Netto’s age. He had to try out a lot of clothes before he was satisfied with his selection. His new outfit was a more modified version of his old one. He was lucky that he found a pair of shorts that matched his old one. Netto comments on how very comfy it feels wearing it. A layered black shirt with black patches on the elbow area of the white sleeves under an orange vest with a white stripe, black knee socks, and a pair of shoes that were very similar to his old ones. The last article of clothing was a custom bandana. It had orange white and blue stripes in the middle when tied around the forehead. His family symbol, a red circle cut diagonally by a black line with equilateral triangles at both ends, is placed proudly on the forehead area.

“Huh, your new look is very similar to your old one,” Ruby commented.

“I prefer something comfortable and familiar,” Netto reasoned.

- Strelitzia Mall [Breeze Orchid Arcade] -

After getting his new wardrobe, the entire gang agreed to show Netto the local arcade inside the mall. The inside was pleasantly colorful and displayed various arcade cabinets and gaming machines. He felt like he could spend endless hours to beat the various high scores. The two machines that caught his interest the most were the multiplayer cabinets. The two-player shooting games, Mid-Crisis 3 and Under Sea Explorers.

During his time enjoying the various game cabinets, he comes across one in which he saw two NetNavis fighting. It gave him bittersweet memories of when he was defeated by Dekao before he received Rockman, or when he first saw Enzan defeating a NetNavi with a regular NormalNavi.

Who were the contestants? Who were their operators? He goes closer to the battle machine and sees them. On the left was a girl with long light blue hair tied into a braid with some hairclips sticking out of her bun, tanned skin, and turquoise blue eyes. She wore a lime green tank top with two belts (one magenta while the other was purple), a white skirt, black leggings with magenta and white stripes, yellow leg warmers with grape patterns, and lime green and black shoes with purple soles. Additional accessories were a choker with her Navi’s emblem on it (a purple flower on a white background with a magenta border), a grape necklace, and two black bands (one had a purple flower on it).

On the right, is a boy with short black hair in a dreadlock style, dark skin, and amber eyes. His clothes were a yellow headband with a cyan stripe in the middle, a black hoodie with yellow stripes on the shoulders and cyan highlights over a white tee shirt with a piano symbol with blue and orange keys, black jogger jeans with yellow highlights on the side, and black, blue and yellow shoes. A pair of headphones with his Navi’s symbol was around his back. The insignia was a pair of notes on a staff displayed on a cyan background with a yellow border ring.

The NetNavis showcased in the machine were a girl and a boy.

The girl NetNavi was mostly purple with some pink and purple lines on the upper thighs. Her blue skirt reminded Netto of solar panels. There were grape symbols on her dark purple gauntlets. What was interesting was the helmet structure, pink tufts of hair were seen sticking out of her buns like structures. A pair of lime green ribbons that resemble braids was also attached to those buns. What was interesting was her lime green eyes were blocky and acted like displays on her black visor. She shared the same emblem as the braided girl.

The male NetNavi was mostly grey. His chest armor and lower leg armor were based on radios and stereos. On the back of his head were grey wires that resembled dreadlocks. His tanned face and blue eyes were the only human traits that contrasted the rest of his robotic armor look.

“Go, Radioman!” the black-haired boy commanded, “Cannon, slot-in!”

The grey Navi, Radioman, fired a red canon from his right arm.

“Dodge it, Amar!” the light blue-haired girl countered. “Battle Chip, Woody Tower*, slot-in!”

The purple Navi, Amar, jumps out of the way and slams her hand on the floor. Radioman flinched from the strong attack and was forcibly logged out after taking a huge hit from the attack.

“Damn it! Another loss!”

“You should try using Fire Element chips next time, Aeon,” the braided girl taunted. “I’ve won at least 30 times by now.”

“Shut up, Isla,” Aeon grumbled.

“Nice battle, you two,” Netto praised.

“Uh, thanks,” Aeon replied.

“Hey, I haven’t seen you before. Are you new around here?” Isla asked. “Did you move here recently?”

“Uh, well. Sort of…” Netto hesitated.

“There you are Netto,” Draga said as she headed to the net battle machine. “You should know better than to wander off.”

“Sorry.”

“Hey, Draga! No time, no see,” Isla greeted.

“I see you have won your 29^th battle,” Draga commented.

“Actually 30^th,” Isla corrected. “It just feels so good to win!”

“It just sucks to lose often though,” Aeon grumbled. “So, what’s your name, new guy?”

“I’m Netto Hikari,” Netto answered. “Nice to meet you, Isla-chan and Aeon-kun!”

“He recently came to our town looking for a place to stay.” Draga explained, “He’s staying with me, Angel, and Auntie Cerys.”

“Nice to meet you, Netto. I’m Aeon Lyron.” He shakes hands with Netto. He notices something about his grip. “Hey, are you a Net Battler as well?”

“How did you guess?”

“It’s just when you use Battle Chips a lot, you tend to have a certain grip.” 

“I do but not anymore, I lost my Navi in a train explosion.”

“Oof, that’s gotta be rough,” Aeon commented. “Do you plan to get another one sometime? I want to have a Net Battle with you sometime.”

“It’s fine, though I’m not sure if I’m ready to get another Navi,” Netto hesitated. “I was really close with my old one.”

“That’s a shame, you seem like a very good Net Battler.”

“Anyway, Draga and I were going to the Chroma Juice Bar to discuss with the others about certain things,” Netto said.

“Hey, might if I tag along?” Aeon asked, “I need to cool down after my last defeat.”

“I want to go too,” Isla insisted. “I just went to chat with the others and celebrate my 30^th victory.”

- Chroma Juice Bar -

Chroma Juice Bar was a very popular hangout spot for both kids and teenagers. Netto could see why with the appealing bright colors and the excellent view of the ocean.

Aeon was sipping some fresh lemonade as he overhears the group’s conversation. Radioman was fully healed and projected on his shoulder. His head was wrapped around the existence of alternate dimensions and that in Netto’s old home dimension, everything is more connected to the Internet. It was unbelievable but there’s something about Netto that tells him that the brunette was not lying. Isla was happily striking up a conversation with Netto in terms of connectivity to the Internet.

“So let me guess in your connected world, you were a well-known hero with your NetNavi, Rockman?”

“That’s right,” Netto smiled. He remembers all the threats he overcame with Rockman by his side. “I know it may sound crazy but it’s the truth. I even became a Net Savior due to my impressive feats.”

“Whoa, you, an Official?” Ruby commented, “That’s pretty cool.”

“But that’s enough of my adventures, so can you tell me how I can unlock my magic powers?”

“Oh, yes,” Draga beamed. “It is called the Process of Discovery. It is where the Magic User goes through various trials to learn more about their inner themselves. It doesn’t matter how old or young the person is as long as the lock inside their heart is broken.”

“Lock on my heart?” Netto uttered.

“Every person is born with a locked heart.” Angel explained, “To break it requires a lot of mental training. The power is unlocked once the user realizes their true potential.”

“Once the lock is released, there are three factors that determine what powers and type the Magic User would be. Their upbringing, personality, and desires.” Draga added, “However, there are rare cases in which the Magic User had their powers already unlocked at birth. They’re called Chosen Ones.”

“As for the trials themselves, they rely on the individual’s physical capabilities, mental fortitude, and hidden desires.”

“That’s pretty cool, so where do I participate in one of these Process of Discovery Trials?”

“Well, you need to set an appointment first to partake in one,” Isla replied.

“Huh, an appointment?” Netto exclaimed, “What do you mean I have to schedule an appointment? This isn’t a doctor’s checkup!”

“Sorry, but that’s how it works, Netto.”

Netto sighed as attempting to get powers wasn’t as fun as portrayed in the fantasy anime he would occasionally watch.

The rest of the day was spent showcasing the various sections and their popular gathering spots except for the South Area. Most people avoid it due to the high crime rate. If you are not a highly skilled or capable fighter; it is advised to stay clear of this area.

Netto is disappointed that he was unable to visit the area and boasts that he can handle himself, but the entire group dissuades him from venturing there because a Net Battler is different from being a regular fighter.

It was almost sunset when the tour was done and everyone went home to West Area. Draga, Angel, and Netto return to Dr. Cerys’s place to rest for the night.

- West Area [Cerys Residence (Draga’s Room)] -

The room that Draga owned had red-violet walls, a white ceiling, and pale wooden floors. The furniture is a full-size bed with ruby red colored sheets, a heart-patterned blanket, and white pillows. Her wooden desk was white, and she had a matching dresser for storing various items that Draga could not find a place for. Her closet was a walk-in one, so her clothes were all on display. A heart-shaped rug completes her simple-looking room, but it hides a hidden doorway. For now, it stays secret until Draga is comfortable in revealing it to Netto in due time. She is currently reading some history books at her desk when she hears a knock on her white wooden door.

Knock! Knock! “Draga, it’s me, Angel!”

Draga gets up from her desk and answers the door. Angel quickly closes it behind her and chats with the winged brunette.

“So, got any bright ideas on how to send Netto home?”

“Nope, but I’ve heard that the TDF District has been researching on interdimensional travel.”

“Hey, you don’t think this was foretold when we went to explore your hidden dimension room?” Angel suggested. “I mean that temple shows us glimpses of various events from worlds that are very different from ours.”

“Hey, I can’t control what events the temple showcases to us,” Draga argued. “It just shows short visions of random events and we don’t know if it retells events from our universe’s past or future. It could be from another world for all we know. But I have noticed one pattern, all of the events we have already seen have been related to the P.E.T. and NetNavi Technology.”

“Do you think the PET and the NetNavi could have some deeper connection with the four worlds?”

“I’m not too sure,” Draga hesitated. “For now, we’ll monitor it closely. I have a feeling something important will happen soon.”

“You know, your parents were always interested in the Legend of Draco and Purity.” Angel pondered, “Even after they died, I guess you want to follow in their footsteps and pursue being a historian. Whelp, better go to bed. We have to make an appointment to schedule a Process of Discovery Trial for Netto in the morning.”  

“Couldn’t we schedule it in the afternoon instead?” Draga suggested. “I have a hard time trying to wake Netto up in the morning. Maybe he’s a night owl or something?”

“Yeah, he is pretty cranky in the morning,” Angel commented, “Okay, afternoon it is. Though we do need your aunt’s permission though.”

“Of course,” Draga smiled. “I’ll ask her if she can squeeze one in next month.”

“Next month? But it isn’t summer yet.”

“Yeah but all the Process of Discovery are full this month,” Draga explained. “So we may have to wait for a while until there’s an opening.”

“Well, nothing we can do about it. Hey, Draga what do you think about Netto? Why do care so much about him?”

“Well, he needs help,” Draga answered. “He has no place to go and his family and friends are worried sick. It seems to be the right thing to do to help someone in need.”

“Well, it isn’t always easy to do the right thing,” Angel commented. “Though it does feel good sticking to your beliefs.”

“Though I’m worried, what if he found out that he was already declared dead in his old home?” Draga asked worriedly. “What do we do then?”

“If that’s the case, well we can ask if he can stay here as a permanent resident,” Angel answered. “I hate to stay this but I’m quickly growing attached to him. I can see why he had a lot of friends back in his old home. He’s pretty friendly and easy to approach and befriend.”

“I guess you’re right on that,” Draga commented. “Well, good night Angel. See you tomorrow morning! We have a lot to prepare for Netto’s upcoming trial.”

“You, too!” Angel beamed. “I have a feeling that Netto will succeed.”

Chapter Text

Netto was in a deep sleep under the covers of his head, but his face contorted into one of confusion and uncertainty. In his dreamscape, Netto was in a void of black and white. The colors were swirling together pulling apart. Why was he here?

Netto…

Neeetttooo…

A chill goes up his spine when an unknown voice calls his name.

Netto…

The brunette screamed and landed on his butt when a shadowy figure appeared before him. “W-w-who a-are you?” He stammered.

“Do not be alarmed, I’m not going to harm you,” the shadowy figure assured. “My name is Draco…”

“Um, Draco can you transform into something less scary?” Netto requested, “Because that shadowy figure stuff is freaking me out.”

“Oh, uh sure,” Draco was taken aback by Netto’s request but he complied as it was harmless. The featureless shadow then morphs into a human with features. Netto was taken aback by his new appearance. He looked a lot like an older version of himself. Only his messy hair was pitch black instead of dark brown and his eyes were a piercing ruby red instead of warm brown. He wore a grey shirt with a v-collar with black patches on the elbows that resembled his two-layered shirt. His garnet-colored vest was open to reveal a black collar with a red gem that resembled a dragon. Black jeans with a dark red belt, and red boots with black highlights. Additionally, he wore black bracelets with red diamonds on them. The only thing that separates him from a regular adult was the pair of black wings attached to his back that were giving off a red glow in the void.

“Okay, you look like me but it is better than the figureless shadow from earlier,” Netto commented. “So what do you want?”

“Well, I want your help…”

“Help, how can I trust you?”

“Well, I won’t possess your body without your consent,” Draco answered. “Listen my younger sister, Purity has been captured. Forced to do their bidding when she found her vessel. I found out when I couldn’t feel her presence anymore, so I believe she is been held against her will.”

“Wait, so you really are not lying?” Netto asked. “You want me to rescue your sister? Wait, you said that your sister needs a vessel? What for?”

“Well, Netto, my sister and I are special cases,” Draco replied. “We can’t appear in any world without a vessel to possess. So will help me rescue her?”

“But what do I get in return?” Netto asked. “I mean I don’t mind helping you but I want to go home.”

“In exchange for helping me, I will allow you to go home.” Draco offered, “I oversee four dimensions. All of them have the PET and NetNavi Technology including your home world.”

“Really? Then if that’s the case, I’ll accept!” Netto beamed, “If I can see Rockman and everyone again, then I’ll gladly take your offer!”

“Excellent! Now, hold still.” Draco then morphs into a mist and enters Netto’s body. The brunette boy falls to the floor with a loud thump.

It felt like hours for Netto as he slowly got up, complaining of a splitting headache. He rubbed his eyes and noticed that he was in an entirely new place, a wooden bathroom. He gets up and sees a mirror in front of him. Netto curiously approaches it and to his utter shock, he is in an entirely new outfit. His hair was a reddish brown and his eyes were sharper and a rusty red color. He wore what appeared to be a helmet resembling his bandana which was onyx black with a pair of black wings on both sides of the insignia and a pair of emblems covering his ears. There is another emblem around the chest area above a red vest and a black tee shirt. A pair of black wings can be seen from his back. Elbow-length black gloves with red fingertips, white rings, and red gems, black jeans with red highlights, a brown belt with a red gem, and finally red knee-length boots with matching rings and gems and black highlights with a pair of wings on the heels. Additionally, an identical choker was around his neck. The insignia instead of his family one was a red diamond on a black background but the border ring remained the same.

Netto was utterly confused, he looked at his newly required wings and slowly moved them. This was really weird but cool and wondered if he could fly.

“Like it?” Draco asked from his mind, “This is your Draco Form.”

“Really…Draco Form? You named my new form after yourself?”

“Well, your form is usually the same attire as me, so yeah…” Draco reasoned.

“So how do I change back?” Netto asked, “I can’t go out in public like this!”

“Touch the Dragon Ruby Jewel,” Draco instructed, “You’ll instantly change back.”

Netto touched the gem and was back to normal, wearing his normal clothes. “Thank goodness. I’m back to normal!”

“Remember Netto you can change your form at will,” Draco instructed, “Shout ‘Draco Form Activate’ to transform. Then say ‘Disperse’ to change back.”

“Oh, so how long are you going to be stuck in my body?”

“Until my sister is rescued,” Draco replied. “So get used to thinking that you’re talking to yourself.”

Netto groaned and closed his eyes in annoyance. He opens them again and finds himself lying on his bed, under covers. He was confused and sat on his bed, stretching his arms. “What the heck? What is it all a dream?” He gets off his bed and heads to the nearest bathroom to freshen up. He closes the door behind his hand and stares at the mirror. Before he could clean his face, Netto was surprised to see Draco staring back at him instead of his own reflection.

 “Hey Netto, miss me?”

“What are you doing here?” Netto hissed.

“Just stopping to say hello,” Draco shrugged.

Netto sighed, it was real after all. “So you can also talk directly through a mirror?”

“Of course,” Draco stated. “Now listen here, there might be a way to go to where my sister has been captured. You haven’t heard about the legend have you?”

“No.”

“Well, the legend details me and my sister, Purity.” Draco explained, “Every 1000 years, a portal is open to allow you to travel to these four dimensions.”

“Really and if I take this portal, would it send me home?”

“Not exactly,” Draco clarified, “the portal will not transport you to your chosen dimension. Instead, you would be taken to a completely different one.”

“Is there any way for me to choose which world I can go to?”

“Well, it’s called an Ancient Relic but I believe they were inactive for a long time,” Draco explained. “I tried finding one but it seems to be destroyed or hidden.”

“If that’s so then what about this random portal?” Netto replied. “Can I still access it without the Ancient Relic?”

“Yes, but remember you will be transported to one of the four dimensions by random.” Draco added, “However, there is another way to control the portals. If you have a Dimension Key then you get sent to that dimension but only the dimension that the key represents. For example, if you have Portal Key C, you only go to Universe C.”

“So which Dimension is mine?”

“Dimension A,” Draco answered. “That portal will come at the Summer Solstice.”

“It’s April now, so I have no choice but to wait.” 

“For now, we need to focus on your Draco Form.” Draco deflected, “Listen you are given the choice to keep this secret until you are comfortable controlling your form. If you don’t train to control your form, you’ll go insane from my power. However, there will be a choker with my gem that will help limit the insane power. For now, relax and train for the big day ahead.” Netto nodded as Draco faded from the mirror leaving him alone with his own reflection.

“Great…” Netto muttered. He exits the bathroom and returns to his bedroom. He finds Draco’s choker resting on his dresser. ‘How did it get there? It wasn’t there when I woke up?’ Curiously he examines the item. The material was made out of real leather and the gem was out of real rubies. He put it around his neck and was surprised that it was a perfect fit. He changes into his regular clothes and conceals the choker behind his vest and yellow scarf.

He goes downstairs and notices that Draga and Angel are eating breakfast, Dr. Cerys is absent as she has already gone to work. “Hey Netto, all freshen up for the day?” Draga asked.

“Yeah, all ready to go,” Netto replied.

“By the way, Netto, who were you talking to?” Draga asked.

“I was self-motivating myself,” Netto deflected.

Angel raised her eyebrow in suspicion at his strange answer, ‘Didn’t seem like self-motivating talk though.’

“Anyway, Netto, we have permission to go to South Area today.” Draga informed, “One of our friends has agreed to accompany us en route to the South Area. This is to train you for your upcoming Process of Discovery Trial.”

“Really, I’m excited!” Netto beamed, “So if I complete this trial, my hidden power will be unlocked?”

“Yes, more or less,” Angel replied. “However, further training is needed to manifest and control your powers.”

“So who is the chosen companion?” Netto pondered.

“Her name is Bulleta Assaina,” Draga replied. “She is one of the best combatants in terms of her weapon prowess and stealth.”  

“Really, that’s so cool! So what elemental power does she have?”

The two girls fell silent after Netto’s question.

“Is something wrong?”

“You see, Netto, not everyone has unlocked their inner potential,” Draga explained. “Bulleta does not have any powers of her own. So to compensate for this, she is pretty skilled with weapons and swords.”

“Really, I did not know that…” Netto pondered, “I thought at least everyone would unlock their powers.”

“Netto, there are various reasons why people haven’t unlocked their hearts. The main reason is they are not honest with their inner selves. Reasons stem from peer pressure from being judged or disowned by family members. Or they just don’t know what they desire for the future.”

That last statement put Netto in deep thought, if he wasn’t honest himself then he may not have any powers. He shook his head as needed to focus.

- Central Area -

Ruby, Frost, and R.C. are waiting by the fountain when Netto, Draga, and Angel enter the area.

“Hey, Ruby-chan!” Netto called.

“Hey, Netto!” Ruby replied. “How are you doing? By the way, why do you put chan at the end of my name?”

“It’s a Japanese honorific,” R.C. explained, “-chan is used for females, -kun is used for males, and –san and –sama is used for people you greatly respect. I read it when reading a how-to-speak Japanese book.”

“To be honest it is a bit more complex than that,” Netto replied, “But you got the main jest of it. I’m impressed.”

“So Netto ready to traverse the dangerous South Area?” Ruby asked, “I hope you can handle all those malicious criminals.”

“Hey, I was a Net Savior before, I can handle any criminal.” Netto boasted, “How is this any different?”

“Foolish words from a naïve newbie.”

A girl with black pigtails and curly bangs came to join the group with a girl with lime green hair in tow.

“Netto, this is Bulleta and her partner, Stacy,” Draga introduced.

Bulleta seems to be taller than Stacy. Her sharp, orchid-purple eyes can be seen past her black square-rimmed eyes. She wore a purple scarf, a lavender hoodie jacket with a white, sleeveless trench coat, purple skort with the shorts being black, purple fishnet and white stockings, and matching purple boots with white rings and black soles. Netto noticed she was carrying a sash that held a sword, a gun, and a small pouch that seemed to store her glasses. 

Stacy had lavender eyes and a blue star tattoo under her right eye. She wore mostly black clothes with the only color being the green collar on her white tee shirt underneath her jacket. She wore black and white striped stockings under her skirt, and black knee-length boots with two buckles.

“Hello, Netto, I’ve heard of your amazing feats from the others especially Isla and Aeon,” Stacy noted. “Aeon especially seems interested in your Net Battling skills.”

“Really, I’m honored,” Netto blushed abashedly.

“Yes, but Netto there is a difference between combat and Net Battling,” Bulleta considered. “Slotting in chips does not count.”

“Yeah, I know Cross Fusion!” Netto argued. “I can fight when I fuse with Rockman.”

“Cross Fusion?” R.C. asked, “Never heard of it.”

“It’s where the operator and the NetNavi become one,” Netto explained. “In it, the operator can fight and use battle chips, but only the ones that were inserted in the PET before the process can start.”

“So, how do you achieve this Cross Fusion status?” Bulleta asked. She doesn’t seem judgmental at Netto for using Cross Fusion. In fact, she seems interested in it despite lacking a NetNavi, herself.

“Well, first you need a high Synchro Rate. It’s how close you are to your NetNavi.” Netto explained, “Second you need, a special chip called a Synchro Chip. Once you slot into your PET then you become your Navi. However, you need to be inside a dimensional area for the whole process to work in the first place.”

“Well, sorry to burst your bubble, Netto. But you don’t have your Navi with you.” Bulleta noted, “So even if we were in a dimensional area, you need your Navi and that special chip.”

This brought Netto back down to reality, “That’s true, I lost my PET so I can’t perform Cross Fusion.” He wonders if Rockman was okay.

“Regardless, going to the South Area unarmed is dangerous,” Bulleta warned. “So we are going to give you some weapons as a way to defend yourself. Let’s go, to Warrior Wares Shop.”

- East Area (Warrior Wares Shop) -

A local shop that specialized in weapons was run by Rick Van. A slightly overweight man with short black hair and dark brown eyes. His clothes were a simple, light brown shirt with a red and white striped tie under a pale green apron, black pants, and shoes. He hears the door shop open and a group of children come pouring into the store.

“Oh, Bulleta, how’s my regular customer coming along?” Rick smiled.

“I’m doing fine, Mr. Van,” Bulleta replied, “This is Netto, he’s a visitor. He needs weapons for protection and his upcoming trial.”

“You’re going to the South Area? That place is not safe for young people like him.”

“Hey, I can take care of myself,” Netto argued. “Ah, sorry, I was wondering if you have any weapons I can use.”

“Uncle Rick do we have customers?” a girl from upstairs called.

“Yes, Felica, apparently it is your friends from the West Area.”

The sound of footsteps can be heard from downstairs. The girl had short black hair and ruby-red eyes. Her clothes were a red hoodie jacket with the letter F on the left side above the breast area, jean shorts, white socks, and matching shoes with red soles. “Hello, I heard from Uncle Rick that your name is Netto. I’m Felica!” She shook hands with Netto before letting go.

“So, you’re going to the South Area, not a lot of people have the guts to go to that area.” Felica then proudly pats her yellow handbag. “How about I go with you guys for support?”

“Uh, no, Felica, this is no picnic to the park,” Bulleta rejected. “This area we are going to is to train Netto for his upcoming Process of Discovery trial. This is an important event to see if he can unlock his powers.”

“Really, you got an appointment? You’re so lucky, Netto!”

“Well, I was curious about whether or not I actually have powers,” Netto confessed. “In fact, wouldn’t it be cool if I can use my powers with Cross Fusion? That would be so awesome. That is if I reunite with Rockman.”

“Well, do not worry! My uncle makes custom weapons for beginner fighters at no cost!” Felica offered.

“That’s right,” Rick smiled. “I see you are a beginner fighter so what weapons do you want? Customization is free of charge.”

Netto thinks hard about what weapons he should use, but in the end, he makes his discussion. “Can I have a pair of Buster guns and a sword?”

“Coming right up, kid,” Rick smiled before he went to the back to do his work.

Thirty minutes later, Rick came back with the requested weapons. The guns were orange and black with thunderbolts adorning the design. His sword was only an orange and blue hilt. Netto liked the guns but was confused about why his sword was built like that.

“There’s a button at the bottom of the hilt,” Rick instructed. “Hit it, and your blade will come up.” Netto pressed the hidden button and a beam of electricity came sticking out.

“Cool, it’s like an Elec Sword!” Netto commented. He swung around and loved the particle effects that came with each swing.

“Careful, Netto, you can get electrocuted. The only ones that can avoid that are Electric Magic Users,” Rick cautioned.

“Don’t worry, I’m careful,” Netto assured. “Now, what to call you. I know, I’ll call the guns, Giga Buster Guns, and my own Elec Sword, Thunder Saber.”

“Now, that you have your weapons, it’s time to head out to South Area and train,” Bulleta informed.

- South Area [Tranquil Park] -

The park seems very different compared to the rest of South Area. The native plant life and the huge puddles of water in which the locals can dip their feet. However, despite its simple and pleasant design, the main reason the park was in this area was the robots stationed around the park.

“Here we are, Tranquil Park!” Ruby introduced.

“It may be a peaceful place but the main attraction is learning how to fight and utilize your weapons. It is a perfect place for beginners. The robots around here are called Mecha-Bots and Bullet Pelters, I know redundant names but they serve their purpose. The Mecha-Bots teach new fighters how to do combat while the Bullet Pelters teach you how to block. Sure their bullets hurt but they do little damage, if you time your blocking right, you won’t get hurt.”

“Seems easy enough,” Netto smiled. He then approaches a field that seems to have three or more Mecha-Bots and Bullet Pelters. “Alright, I’m ready.”

“Are you sure?” Stacy asked, “That’s a lot for a beginner to handle. It could be too much for you.”

“Nah, I handle enemies similar to this in the real world,” Netto assured. “Just start the training and I’ll be good to go.”

“In that case, let us help you, Netto,” Frost offered. “Ruby and I will provide support in battle.”

“But, I can handle myself,” Netto argued. “I don’t need help.”

“Actually, if you let us help you, we can teach you how teams work.”

“Wait, there are team battles?” Netto asked.

Of course, when you are dealing with multiple enemies, it’s best to work in teams to take them out,” Frost replied. “I think a team of three would work.”

“I am curious about how this team would work so okay,” Netto smiled. Ruby and Frost join the brunette on the battlefield, they draw their weapons ready to battle.

“Begin!” Stacy cried.

The Mecha-Bots and Bullet Pelters were suddenly active and ready to pounce on the three teens. Ruby eliminates two Mecha-Bots with her Fire Specter weapon. It was a white staff with red diamonds and yellow rings with red gem spheres on both ends. She shoots flames from one end. If the hit connects, they burst into flames before deactivating. She eliminates the others with some firecrackers.

Frost’s weapons were an Ice Spear and another buster gun that was bigger and similar to Netto’s. The spear was shaped like a kunai out of ice while his gun was cyan colored with a mountain theme design. When Frost launches one at a Bullet Pelter, it freezes before being destroyed by his gun. He did the same process to three Mecha-Bots.

Netto did the most work, it took a while to get a hang of his weapon but he realized that his Buster Gun fired bullets that paralyzed the enemy. This allowed him to use his Thunder Saber to deal the final blow. However, he did take some damage from the Bullet Pelters as he had to learn how to block at the right time. After finding an opening, he manages to defeat the rest of the robots.

“That was great, Netto,” Ruby praised. “This is the first time, I saw a beginner quickly learn the basics and destroy enemies in less than five minutes.”

Netto blushes at the praise, “Well, the combat in my world was similar to this only the enemies were cyber instead.”

“That was a great battle, Netto,” Felica added. She then takes out some medical supplies from her bag and treats the brunette’s wounds.

“So Felica, how come you don’t help fight?”

“Well, I’m a support member,” Felica answered. “I play a different role when in combat. When a member gets hurt I go and heal them. I’m not a good fighter myself. It is not easy juggling combat and healing members. I prefer healing when the time is right.”

“Support members give us perks in battle,” Frost explained. “Most of them do heal us but others give us a boost in power if we’re in a pinch. They are very useful in team battles.”

“That’s pretty cool,” Netto commented. “In my world, my friend’s Navi, Roll can battle and heal so does another of my friend’s Navi named Meddy. So it is possible to do both.” 

“That is pretty cool,” Felica smiled. “I wish I could meet both of them.”

“I’m sure, they’ll give you some pointers.”

“Alright, Netto it is my turn,” Draga offered.

“Good luck, Draga,” Angel encouraged.

The next battle went similarly to the last. Draga’s weapon was her Heart Stake, which was smoothly carved with a heart at the end. Her other move was her Heart Flame. When it attacks an enemy, it leaves a heart and has a chance of burning the enemy.

Netto got a better grip on his weapons during his second fight. He had to time when it would be a good chance to shoot to paralyze and slice the enemy without getting hit.

After their training, everyone decided to head back to the East Area to rest and chill before going home.

- East Area [Chroma Juice Bar] -

Netto was slurping on a blueberry smoothie while listening to the conversation of his new group of friends. Felica and Angel were catching up on current events while Draga was looking up at the TV. She seems to be watching a cartoon about a dragon and some children looking for children. The group was separated into two different tables, Draga, Felica, and Angel were sitting in one table with Netto, Ruby, and Frost sitting in another one.

“Hey, Netto? How are you enjoying Beach Flora so far?” Ruby asked.

“Well, your town is very nice, spacious, has lots of things to do, and is very relaxing,” Netto complimented. “Everyone is so friendly here.”

“That’s interesting coming from you,” Frost noted. “Not many people don’t comment on that because it’s pretty boring here. There’s nothing that separates us from other towns if you exclude South Area.”

“Well, I like this town, the peaceful atmosphere reminds me of my old home, Akihara.”

“Are you homesick?”

“Yes, I mean I got sent to another world. Of course, I’m homesick,” Netto replied, “I just miss everyone back home. Papa, Mama, Rockman, Meiru-chan, everyone!”

“It must be hard for you,” Ruby sympathized. “Trying to adapt to a whole new environment.”

“Netto, I understand how you feel,” Frost added, “Minus of being taken from another world bit, I’m not actually from here. I moved to this town due to my father’s work.”

“Really, you weren’t born here; you were from another place?”

“Yes, it was three to four years ago,” Frost recalled wistfully. “Ruby was my first friend when I moved to Beach Flora, then Henshin. Before long, I actually settled down quite nicely here.”

“That’s a pretty heartwarming tale,” Netto commented.

“So Netto, are you ready to tackle your Process of Discovery Trial, next month?” Ruby asked. “When I first took it, I was really scared but once I progressed more. I started to learn more about myself then at the end, I unlocked my Fire Powers.” She snapped her fingers and flames started to form in her hands.

“I went through something similar with my trial,” Frost replied. “I had self-doubts but my trial taught me how to be more confident and reserved. Due to my calm nature, I receive my ice powers.” He held out his palm and ice crystals started to form.

“Whoa, that is really cool,” Netto admired. As Ruby and Frost disperse their powers, they start devising what power Netto would have.

“You know Netto, I was wondering if maybe you’re an Elec Type user,” Ruby suggested. “I mean you use weapons that are electric in nature, maybe once you complete your trial then you are one. There’s a lot of evidence pointing to that.”

“You think so, well Papa said I was good with electronics but I didn’t think it would be used for determining my Magic User type,” Netto pondered.

“Well, it is too early to tell so we just have to wait and see,” Frost reminded. “Who knows it could be totally different type.”

“So, how many types of Magic Users are there?”

“Oh, Netto there are a lot, but they are separated into three categories, Common, Uncommon, and Rare,” Ruby explained.

“The Common Category contains Fire, Electricity, Grass, and Normal.”

“What’s the Normal Type?”

“The Normal type contains moves that cannot be categorized to the other types,” Frost explained. “For example, beam attacks and aura shields.”

“Now, here comes the Uncommon and Rare Categories,” Ruby beamed. “The Uncommon one lists Recovery, Stat, Sword, Invisible, Ground Cracking/Terrain, Cursor, Obstacle, Wind, and Break. The Rare only contains Dark and Light.”

“Dark and Light? Why only those two?”

“Because Dark and Light are the most primordial out of all of them,” Frost reminded. “They were the first types before the others came. Many theorized that the types could have come from those two types. Despite being the rarest, they may be more powerful than the other types.”

“That’s amazing,” Netto commented. “Have there been any recent recordings of these Dark and Light Magic Users?”

“Well, the most recent was two years ago,” Frost recalled. “However, I do know that one Dark and one Light Magic User was found in the city of Avril Denka* .”

“Avril Denka City?”

“It’s a 2-hour drive from Beach Flora Town,” Ruby replied. “It’s a bustling city near the ocean.”

“What so special about that city?” Netto asked.

“Well, unlike Beach Flora Town, the city is ideal for all types of species and creatures.” Ruby explained, “I went on vacation there and met all kinds of people and creatures you find in your fantasy books.”

“Really like elves, goblins, ogres, and angels?”

“Yup, Draga is half angel,” Ruby noted. “Her mother was an angel while her father was a human. So she is a hybrid.”

“That’s very cool,” Netto replied. “Do you think I would meet these types of creatures when I go there?”

“Yeah, Netto, most of the Discovery of Process Trials happen mostly in that city,” Ruby explained. “So once your appointment comes, we’ll all go there and visit there.”

“It has been five months since we last visited,” Frost recalled. “So basically our many vacations are going to Avril Denka City. It is very busy and there’s a lot of activity there.”

“Can’t wait to go there,” Netto commented.

- Cerys Residence [Netto’s Room] -

Later that night, Netto was sitting on his bed in deep thought. The covers were wrapped around his waist. He decides to talk to Draco by touching the gem on his choker. “Draco, can you hear me?” Netto muttered.

“Yes?” Draco replied, “I have noticed that you have been training with your new weapons and you have an appointment called the Process of Discovery. It is where you will unlock your powers?”

“Yeah, wait, you’ve been watching me?”

“Well, of course, you are my vessel,” Draco replied, “Why else would I’ve been watching you.”

Netto plops down on his bed, “Creepy. So, Draco since I’m your vessel, can I have powers?”

“Of course, it does take some practice in order to utilize my power, for now, your choker will help you course the dark power through your body.”

“Dark Power, but that was pretty bad stuff in my world,” Netto replied. “There was a time in which an organization called Nebula used this power to take over the world by infecting Navis using Dark Chips. Anyone using too much of their data corrodes. But it’s gone now after Dr. Regal was gone.”

“Dr. Regal… Who is that?”

“The leader of the Nebula Syndicate,” Netto explained. “He plunged the entire world into a Dimensional Area and Cross Fused with his Navi, Laser Man, and became a giant. Luckily, Rockman and I defeated him though he did come back during the Duo incident but temporarily. He was killed off for good.”

“That’s a pretty interesting story, Netto but I believe you.”

“Oh, thank you,” Netto smiled. “So what’s so different about this Dark Power?”

“The Dark Power of this world is neutral instead of evil-aligned,” Draco explained. “A small portion is found in every human. In extreme cases, if the Dark Power overwhelms a person they may transform into a monster.”

Netto gulped, so if he has too much he could transform into a monster and kill anyone?

“Do not worry, Netto. In your case, you will automatically transform into your Draco Form so you do not have to fret there,” Draco assured, “There are also some benefits. You can transform your powers into your teammates. They will be protected and if they are affected by too much darkness, they will be automatically cured.”

“That’s amazing,” Netto smiled. “But wait about others that are not my teammates. Can I see heal them if they have too dark power?”

“Yes, since you’re the vessel aka the Aaron.”

“Aaron?”

“It’s a term used to describe my vessel, it was named after my very first vessel when I first came to this Universe. Any new vessels after him are called that term in his honor.”

“That’s pretty nice, I thought you were some evil guy but you’re not so bad. You even help me.”

Draco blushes at Netto’s praise before clearing his throat, “Go to sleep, Netto. You have to trial to prepare for.”

“Oh, right the Process of Discovery,” Netto remembered. As he lays back, he wonders about his dark power, “Hey Draco, if I complete this process would I be a Dark or Elec User.”

“To be honest, Netto. Aarons and Dark Type Users are separate categories.” Draco explained, “You will still retain your original type while using my powers.”

“I see, night Draco…”

Draco mumbled a response before nestling deep inside Netto’s subconscious. Though some thoughts still linger, how would explain this to his new friends?

A few weeks have passed since Netto has settled into Beach Flora Town. His skills had greatly improved in terms of his weapons but kept his Aaron Vessel status a secret. He didn’t feel comfortable yet sharing the news of being Draco’s newest vessel.

It was now May 5^th, the day of Netto’s trial. His day is to take the Process of Discovery and see if he can complete it and unlock his power.

They were waiting at a bus stop in Central Area to be transported to Avril Denka City. He was accompanied by Dr. Cerys, Draga, and Angel. As they boarded the bus, he looked around the crowd and saw familiar faces. Ruby, Frost, Bulleta, R.C., Stacy, and Felica were amongst them.

He sees a guy with red hair sitting next to Frost. He wore a peach tee shirt with a collar and white trimmings, jeans, black socks, and red shoes with black soles. “Yes, I’m Henshin Daidaiiro,” Henshin replied. “I’m just here accompanying the gang. So you’re Netto, the new kid?”

“Yeah, that’s my name,” Netto beamed. “You’re one of Frost-kun’s friends right?”

“Yup, I wanted to tag along since it’s been a while since we hung out.” Henshin answered, “So, you’re going to the Process of Discovery Trial?”

“Yup, are you taking it as well?”

“Nope, I’m just not interested.”

“Really? I thought everyone would be?”

“Well, some people just prefer being normal people,” Henshin reasoned.

“What do you mean by that?” Netto asked, “You don’t want any powers?”

“Well, I did but when I took my trial I decided it wasn’t worth it.”

Netto was confused but something about Henshin’s vague words unnerved him but he pushed those feelings aside. He needs to get ready for his trial, to prove himself that he can do it. Why was this any different?

- Avril Denka City [Nissa Institute] -

When they arrived in the city, Netto noticed how populous, bustling, and vibrant it was compared to the spacious, serene, and subtle Beach Flora Town. He noted that it reminds him of Tokyo City with its colorful billboards eye-catching advertisements, and skyscrapers that were taller than the ones in the North Area.

However, what caught his eye were the locals and bystanders. There were various creatures that he had seen in many fantasy anime he watched with Rockman. He saw generic mythical creatures like dragons walking on two legs, ogres, werewolves, dwarves, etc. However, the hybrids were the most interesting, ranging from women having wolf ears and tails like they were doing cosplay to some of the creatures having more humanoid traits.

The bus stops in front of the Nissa Institute. Draga notes that this place was twice as big as her aunt’s workplace. Netto compares it to the Ministry of Science as they were about the same size. Most of the passengers stepped out of the bus and headed towards the towering buildings.

Inside, it was a huge waiting room. Various people were waiting for their turn to take their trial. It seemed pretty big as they were excitedly anticipating their turn to take the test. Throughout the crowd, Netto spots two familiar people. Aeon and Isla were taking the trial as well. The people accompanying them seem to be their siblings.  

“Netto, fancy meeting you here!” Aeon beamed.

“Hey, Aeon, Isla, are you taking your trial as well?”

“That’s right, all of our siblings want to come with us to bid us good luck in our trial,” Aeon noted. “This is my sister, Savannah.”

Savannah had short, black dreadlocked hair with red and blue tips and scarlet red eyes. Her skin was tanned but a bit lighter than her brother’s. She wore a black letter jacket with blue crystal designs over a dark purple tank top with crystal designs (the top was red while the bottom was blue), an independence blue belt, torn jeans, and black boots with straps, red studs, and blue soles. Her accessories were black fingerless gloves, a choker with red studs and blue jewels, and a blue crystal necklace.

“Hello, Netto I have a feeling you’ll succeed,” she greeted.

“Come on, sis. What about me?”

“Your chance is about 30%,” Savannah deadpanned.

“Come on, at least give me some words of encouragement.”

“Hehe, Savannah is as mysterious as usual,” a young girl chuckled.

“Netto, these are my sisters,” Isla introduced. “Malosi is the eldest sister while Lani is the youngest sister.”

Malosi had black hair with purple tips tied into a ponytail, light blue eyes, and dark-tanned skin. Her clothes were a sleeveless denim jacket left open to reveal her white tee-shirt with green and magenta highlights, light blue jean shorts, purple and yellow striped socks, and magenta and green shoes with black soles. Additional accessories include dragon fruit hairclips, a yellow scrunchie, and a dragon fruit-themed necklace and earrings.

Lani had short black and green gradient hair tied into two buns, teal eyes, and tanned skin. Her clothes were a magenta T-shirt, lavender overalls with a lime design on the pocket, yellow socks, and lime green shoes. Her accessories were two yellow bows tied around her buns with a lime design.

“Nice to meet you, Netto. I hope you and Isla will succeed in unlocking your powers.”

“So how does the Process of Discovery trial actually work?” Netto asked.

“Well, you will be taken to a dungeon that lasts five floors,” Malosi explained. “All of them test your physical capabilities, mental state, and your hidden desires.”

“So what happens if you fail?”

“Well, if you get severely hurt then you’re teleported to a room in which your wounds are treated. However, in the rare case you die, well your remains are collected and put into a coffin that is sent to a nearby morgue.” Savannah morbidly informed, “If no one claims the remains, you’re sent to a graveyard that is designated for the failed participants.”

This sent a chill down Netto’s spine. “A-are you serious,” he stammered. “If I die, I get sent there?”

“Yes, but it’s very rare,” Aeon assured. “There haven’t been any deaths lately. So you’ll be safe, I think.”

“That’s not very assuring,” Netto commented. “So how do I get chosen?”

“The intercom will tell you when the Trial is ready.” Dr. Cerys informed, “On the screen right there, they will show you a list of ready people. If your name is on it you go to the reception for further instruction.” She points to a giant screen behind the reception desk which depicts profiles of various people. Everyone was anticipating whether or not Netto, Aeon, and Isla made it onto the list. A ring echoed through the room via speakers followed by an announcement through the intercom.

“Trial has been completed, the room will be cleared for the next trial, please wait. . .”

“Man all this waiting is very intense,” Aeon commented. “Though, I’m pumped. I can’t wait to complete my trial, this is my 5^th time after all.”

“6^th actually,” Savannah corrected, “You failed your last one in January. Though I do commend your perseverance.”

“Man, I’m still salty about this. How can my sister complete her trial and unlock her power before me? I’m the older sibling,” Aeon complained. “Don’t fret, 6^th time is the charm.”

Another ring echoes in the air followed by another announcement from the same intercom. “Room is now cleared for the next trial. All participants on screen please report to the reception desk for further instruction.” The various profiles suddenly scramble revealing an entirely different roster of people. Netto, Aeon, and Isla’s profiles were among them. They made it in.

“Alright, we’re in!” Aeon cheered.

“I can’t wait,” Isla smiled. “This will be my first trial so I’m excited as well.”

Netto agreed but something about Henshin’s words about the trial still lingered in his mind. Why did Henshin give up on his Process of Discovery after one try? Is there something more to this trial? Savannah hinted how deadly they were but they were safe now. Netto was now cautious about the potential dangers of this trial. He went through and defeated worldwide threats, PharaohmanEXE, Gospel, Duo, Nebula Grey, and the Cyber Beasts. How dangerous and difficult can one trial be compared to the threats he dealt with before?

The trio approaches the reception desk where the other participants eagerly wait for more information about their upcoming trial.

“Attention all participants, before your trial, it is recommended that you bring only one partner that has their power already unlocked.”

“Is that allowed?” Netto whispered.

“Yeah, apparently that rule was in place to make sure that no deaths occur during the trial,” Isla explained. “However, if you do bring a partner, there are certain sections in the trial that they cannot accompany you. The reason they do this is so they don’t help you cheat the trial.”

“So, they’re just here to make sure I don’t die, correct?”

“Yup,” Isla smiled.

“Okay, everyone if you choose to not take a partner with you then wait by the door on my left.” The receptionist instructed, “That door will lead you to the trial.” At least 20 people waited in front of a double door that was 14 feet tall. It suddenly opens in which the participants enter.

“Come on, Netto, let’s choose our partner and partake in the trial!”

A while later, the trio picked a suitable partner to accompany them in the trial. Aeon chose Frost, Isla’s was Ruby, and Netto’s choice was Draga. They pass the same double doors along with some other participants. The brunette noticed a light up ahead, it seemed to be a doorway with a strange aura. When he and others pass, he notices he can’t go back when he touches the aura. Once you start the trial, you can’t go back.

Trial 1 – Shadow Crawlers

“So what’s the first trial?” Netto asked.

“The Shadow Crawlers,” Aeon answered. He looks and sees that the first room seems like the inside of the cave with the regular stalagmites and stalactites, but for some reason, Netto feels unnerved. He felt the shadows contour and squirm around him, below his feet, behind him, and above him.

He starts to feel like he was watched and his instincts are on high alert.  His gut feelings were correct when the shadows morphed into amorphous blobs. Most of them ran away to avoid the dark creatures but some stayed to fight. Netto was the latter as he took out his Buster Guns and fired at the creature. The shadow creature disintegrated after taking too much damage. Netto used his Thunder Saber when some of the dark creatures were stunned. He dealt the final blow as the creatures turned to dust. Some of the participants were impressed at Netto’s combat skills.

Draga assists Netto and quickly dispatches one of the shadows. It quickly dissolves after being hit by her Heart Flame attack. Netto notes that Magic Users have a much easier time destroying shadow enemies than regular people. Ruby and Frost also made quick work of the dark creatures and they quickly fell under their attacks.

Despite Netto not being a Magic User, he efficiently makes use of his weapons by taking advantage of his Giga Buster having a chance of paralyzing the enemy. He dealt the final blow as the creatures turned to dust. Some of the participants were impressed at Netto’s combat skills.   

“That was awesome, Netto,” Aeon praised.

“You should’ve seen him at Tranquil Park, he possesses the same skill there,” Ruby recalled.

“Come on, we have four more trials to complete,” Frost reminded. “It’s not over yet.”

“Man, I didn’t know we had to fight those things,” Netto commented. “What were they?”

“Those are Penumbras,” Frost explained. “They are copies made from a research of dark energy gone wrong. They won’t do too much damage but they are meant to test your physical and mental strength.”

“I failed that trial twice,” Aeon recalled. “The intensity never decreased.”

After all the Penumbras were destroyed, the participants who survived, exit the trial and into the next room to begin the next trial.

Trial 2 – Crystal Towers

“So what’s the second trial?”

“Crystal Towers, you have to jump from one platform to another to reach the bottom to get to the next trial.”

“Seems easy enough, Aeon and I have been practicing our parkour,” Isla boasted. They came to a section in which the area had crystals that littered the entire room. Netto noticed that some of them had smoothed out tops almost like a platform. He had to timed his jumps right, otherwise a painful plummet down.

He successfully jumped on two but when he went to the third, Netto slipped and was about to fall. Luckily, Draga was there to help his balance. She used her wings as leverage so he didn’t slip. “Thanks, Draga-chan,” Netto smiled.

Luckily, the other safely landed on the bottom. Netto noticed how soft the ground was, the texture reminded him of snow. “That’s a safety measure,” Draga explained. “There were many deaths here so they decided to make this floor soft to absorb the hit so the participant didn’t die.”

Netto was unnerved that it took so many deaths to put this safety measure in place. He follows the group to the third trial, Mirror Labyrinth.

Trial 3 – Mirror Labyrinth

“Unfortunately, this is where we depart,” Frost informed. “Awakened Magic Users cannot go through here due to a barrier, so we have to wait at the other side.”

“Good luck,” Ruby beamed. Ruby, Frost, and Draga went down another passage which will lead to the other side of the fourth trial room. This left Netto alone with Aeon and Isla. As they traverse through the mirror maze, Netto can’t help to wonder what this was like in the Science Museum incident where Rockman had to fight Beastman.

Would this trial be similar? How would he pass it? Finding the exit would be the most logical reason.

“So, this trial tests your mental fortitude,” Aeon explained. “I always get shivers down my spine as it seems to scan every little detail about you.”

“That creepy huh?”

“It’s true, I couldn’t make it out and was always transported to the medical area.”

“That bad, huh…” Netto muttered. To think this trial could cause some mental scarring.

Netto was starting to feel uneasy like the first trial with the Shadow Crawlers, he started hearing voices.

“Did you guys hear that?”

“Yeah, I heard it too.”

“That’s part of the trial,” Aeon explained. “It’s trying to play mind games with you. The mirrors will show images of your loved ones taunting you. There’s nothing more hurtful than the ones you trust, mocking you behind your back.” The voices started addressing Aeon, then Isla, and finally Netto.

Familiar voices started to ring in his head particularly his family, friends, and his Navi.

“Netto?”

“Netto, we want you to come home.”

“Netto-kun, we miss you, please come back.”

Netto starts to sweat, his skin becoming clammy. He shook his head trying to stop the voices.

He froze as he saw the image of his rival, Enzan, in one of the mirrors. His eyes were shrouded by shadows but the brunette could imagine the hateful gaze from his icy blue eyes. “Netto, if you don’t go back then I’ll make sure you stay dead.” These voices and imagery were way too realistic. He wonders if he starting to go insane.

“Netto, are you okay?” Isla asked, “You look pale and about to faint.”

“I-I’m fine,” Netto stuttered. He was starting to shake and started to sweat. He sees Meiru in another mirror looking down at him with disdain. Like Enzan, her eyes were shrouded by darkness but he could imagine her with an angry look in her chocolate brown eyes. He clutches his chest before he hits his back against the wall and slides to the floor. He hugs his knees and covers his ears with his hands to clamp out the voices.

"Netto, you are not okay!" Isla cried in concern. Both of them knelt down to comfort him as his symptoms intensified. 

Netto’s ears started to ring from the intruding voices. They were becoming cruel and demanding. 

“Netto, how could you!”

“You were actually alive all this time?”

“We thought you were dead, Netto.”

“I can’t believe it, are you tricking us?”

“No, no I’m not!” Netto protested. “I-I’m just looking for a way home. I would never abandon you guys, never!” He felt nauseous, he was about to throw up from all the verbal abuse from the mirrors. His heart was racing, his breathing short and rapid, and finally, tears starting to stream down his face. It was all too much for him.  

He felt Aeon and Isla's presence but he could barely hear their voice through the ringing of his ears. 

“---hit, ---- losing him…”

“… continue … without him?”

“. . . serious? We can’t . . . symptoms …worse! Are…abandon him. . .”

“Not sure…”

Netto felt a hand on his shoulder while another one was rubbing circles on his back. He had to calm down otherwise, the others would be worried. He took a few deep breaths and closed his eyes. He had to stay calm and think clearly.

He did know that there was a possibility that he was left for dead. He wasn’t sure how much time as passed in his old world. But if that were the case and if his family and friends didn’t take him back, then he still has a home here. He didn’t forget his parents, Rockman, his childhood friends like Meiru, Dekao, and Yaito, not even his rivals, Enzan and Laika. But if too much time has passed and he wasn’t taken back then he will stay here.

During the few weeks he had spent in the new world with Draga, Angel, Dr. Cerys, Ruby, Frost, Aeon, Isla perhaps Bulleta as well. They all helped him in some way. It was like a second home. They did care about him just as his family and old friends did. It was like a second home here.

“Netto-kun, I would never abandon you.” Rockman’s voice rang out, “I will always be by your side even if we’re not together anymore. We’re always connected.” The brunette smiled at his Navi’s words, he always was there for him even if couldn’t see him anymore.

Netto’s eyes open and sees Aeon and Isla staring at him with concern. “Oh, sorry, guys. I didn’t mean to worry you.”

“Hey, man that’s okay. It’s normal for people here to get panic attacks.” Aeon assured, “Shoot, I think one of my classmates got one as well and I had to stay by his side before we got out.”

“Yeah, thanks, let’s go meet up with Draga-chan and the others.”

However, something deep in Netto’s heart, he felt a lock break. Netto stopped as they exited the maze.

“Hey, Netto is there something wrong?”

“I think my lock was broken,” Netto beamed. “I think my power is awakening!”

“Really? That’s great, Netto!” Ruby cheered, “Now that your heart is unlocked, we have to complete the last two in order for the process to be complete.”

Trial 4 – Outcrop Climb

“Alright, what are the final two?”

“Next is the Outcrop Climb, it’s the same as the Crystal Towers but you have to climb up instead of going down.” Draga informed, “Luckily, there are some platforms for you to rest before continuing your ascend.”

“So why is it the fourth trial?”

“It’s because Penumbras will be there to knock you off if stay too long on one platform,” Frost replied. “You need to be on high alert.”

“Right, I may have my powers unlocked but I don’t know what type I am…” Netto wondered, “If I went to the next trial, then will I find out what elemental magic I use.”

“That’s the spirit, Netto!” Ruby praised, “Maybe you can try out your new powers on those annoying Penumbras.”

Aeon and Isla purposely walk behind the group as they head out to the next trial. “Hey Isla, I want to talk about what happened at the Mirror Labyrinth.”

“What about it?”

“You were thinking about leaving Netto behind when he was having a panic attack.”

“What, don’t be silly,” Isla deflected. “I stayed behind too.”

“Yeah, but I was peeved that you had that thought to leave him behind.”

“I thought he would slow us down,” Isla confessed. “If we stayed too long then I was afraid we would end up like him.”

“Still that is a dick move to leave behind someone in distress,” Aeon chided. “What if I leave you behind to defend yourself if an enemy attack?”

“What, you wouldn’t do something like that,” Isla scoffed. “In fact, you’re too nice to do that type of action.”

“Just saying, I know you’re a better net battler than me, but I just can’t stand your selfish behavior sometimes,” Aeon denounced.

The group stopped in front of a rock formation that was sticking above the group but the formation was very rugged. Some participants were already climbing the tall structure. Netto noticed that some of them were being knocked off by some Penumbras.

“Well, no time to dawdle, let’s go!” Ruby starts to climb up the ragged rock wall. Two participants fall beside her during her ascend.

“That seems dangerous…” Isla muttered.

“Well, we came this far, no use turning back,” Frost commented. Netto slowly climbs up the Outcrop wall and notices a participant falling towards him. He gulped and moved out of the way. Luckily, the participant landed on soft ground that cushioned his fall.

“Huh, it’s the same as the Crystal Towers one…”

As the rest of the group climbed up, Isla was annoyed that Draga was climbing despite the fact she had wings. “Hey Draga, why aren’t you using your wings? They could be helpful here!”

“I can only carry one person at one time.” Draga explained, “Even then, I would only take them to a short distance before getting tired. So I only use them when someone is in trouble.”

“Figures…”

“Isla,” Amar was silently watching her operator’s actions throughout the trial. So far she hasn’t been defending herself. She had to rely on others in order to survive. She wouldn’t pass the final trial if she kept up this behavior.

“Aeon, the climb is about 20 feet tall,” Radioman informed. “If we keep climbing up, we will be reaching the mid-point.”

“What about Ruby and Netto? How far are they? They went ahead of us.”

“Ruby seems to have been at the mid-point and is fighting some Penumbras. Netto will be reaching there soon.”

Ruby quickly throws a firecracker at a Penumbra and it quickly disintegrates after the blast. Magic Users can kill Penumbras faster than regular people with no powers.

Netto quickly climbs up to a platform to rest and sees that Ruby is fighting with some Penumbras with her powers. He quickly gets out his Buster Gun and blasts one that was about to pounce on Ruby. He notices a shot of electricity leaving the barrel.

“No way, I’m an Electric User? That’s pretty cool!”

“Ha, I knew it,” Ruby bragged. “In your face, Frost.” She is suddenly pounced on by another shadow creature. It is instantly destroyed by Frost’s Buster Gun.

“Save your boastful win for when we’re not in danger,” Frost chided.

The group quickly gathered their weapons to dispatch the remaining Penumbras at the midpoint. Isla was the only lagging behind, her weapon was a lime green bow and purple-tipped arrows. It took at least five arrows to take down one Penumbras. She looks at an opening that leads up to the exit, but she hesitates and looks back at the group killing the huge shadow group.

Her thoughts linger back to what happened in the Mirror Labyrinth and her early conversation with Aeon.

- Flashback -

“Shit, are we losing him?”

“Should we continue without him?”

“Are you serious? We can’t just leave him here! His symptoms could get worse! Are you going to abandon him?”

“Not sure…”

“Still that is a dick move to leave behind someone in distress. What if I leave you behind to defend yourself if an enemy attack?”

“Just saying, I know you’re a better net battler than me, but I just can’t stand your selfish behavior sometimes.”

- Flashback Ends -

Isla grits her teeth and returns to help the group defeat the last group of Penumbras.

“Thanks, Isla,” Netto smiled.

“Hey, what’s with the sudden change in behavior?” Aeon pointed out, “Normally, you would hide behind others?”

“I was just thinking okay,” Isla quipped. “I just need to prove I can handle myself.”

After all the Penumbras were dealt with, the group continued their climb until they reached the exit.

“The last trial is the Alaric Chamber,” Draga informed.

“AKA the Boss Room,” Ruby paraphrased. “The last one is really tough. Not many make it.”

Trial 5 - Alaric Chamber

As they entered the last room, it was adorned with golden treasures and red velvet carpet and walls but there was a huge creature on the throne. He was an eight-foot golden knight wearing a red fur cape and jewelry encrusted on the armor.

He gets up after taking a sip from his chalice and holds up his sword. With one swing, at least eight participants got injured and were teleported away.

“Whoa, that boss took down eight with one swing…” Aeon commented. “How do we beat him?”

Netto was deep in thought, “How to beat him? Oh, I got it!” He gathers the group and tells them his strategy. “Okay, I got a plan. We have to work together to defeat him!”

“So, how do we defeat him?”  

“We’ll split into two groups, one will distract him while the other will find an opening to take him down.”

Wait, I think we did a similar strategy when we were fighting the boss room for the first time,” Ruby recollected. “Remember Frost? You, Draga, Angel, and I were there!”

“Oh, yeah, I remember,” Frost added. “Alright, Netto we’ll go with your strategy.”

“Okay, since there are six of us, who will distract and who will find the opening?”

“I’ll be with the distraction group,” Ruby volunteered.

“I’ll go with Ruby’s group,” Draga offered.

“I’ll go with Ruby then,” Isla added. This took Aeon by surprise. Normally, she would go with a group that would protect her not one that she had to participate in and do her part.

“Okay, then Frost-kun, Aeon, and I will sneak from behind and find the weak point to defeat the boss.”

The groups held their positions. “Hey, oversized greedy gold bucket! You’re too selfish to be an honorable knight!” Ruby taunted, “I bet you can’t use that pyrite sword to slay me.” She stuck her tongue out and ran away. This enraged the golden suit and chases after the fire user. “Now, Draga!”

“Heart Flame!” She fires a ball of fire that leaves a heart trail. This caught the boss off guard. Isla fires some arrows which makes him flinch.

Meanwhile, Netto’s group was looking for the weak point. “Now, where is it?”

“Hey look! That glowing red gem at the back.” The cape was burnt away by Draga and Ruby’s attacks. “Do you think that’s the Achilles’ heel?”

“Looks like,” Frost replied. The golden knight kneels after the relentless attacks.

“Now,” Netto commanded. The group took out their weapons, while Aeon took out his orange gauntlets that were suited for battle. With their combined attack, the boss wailed and fell to the floor.

“Did it work?” Ruby asked. The boss got up and glared at the two groups.

“Oh no, we need to do more damage!”

“Damn, how strong in this boss?”

The boss swung his sword and they quickly got out of the way, but Isla was too close and fell to her side.

“Isla!”

Isla staggers before getting up and looking straight up at the boss. She grits her teeth and in one desperate attempt. She pulls out her bow and fires one arrow at him. She felt something unlock inside of her and the knight roared as the attack hit the right eye.

“Wait, did that boss get poisoned?”

“No way, Isla you unlocked your heart!” Draga beamed, “Look, vines are coming from the eye. You’re a Grass User.”

The boss was getting annoyed and got ready to swing his sword at the group. “Oh no, you don’t!” Aeon cried. He goes in front of Isla and instinctively pounds his fist on the ground. A lock was broken inside his heart. The golden knight was shocked as the sword was cracked.

“Hah, your sword really was pyrite,” Ruby taunted.

“No way, Aeon unlocked his powers too?”

“Ground-Cracking/Terrain…” Draga noted.

Before the boss could retaliate, Netto rushes in and jumps on the left shoulder. He goes back and gets out his Thunder Saber. Before he deals the finishing blow, Netto’s eyes glow red, and dark energy is briefly shown on his sword. He stabs the boss in the back directly at the weak point and the golden knight falls to the ground and disintegrates.

“That was awesome!”

“That power…” Draga muttered. “Could it be…?”

Chapter Text

- Ume Hibachi -

After Netto, Aeon, and Isla successfully finished their trial, everyone celebrated their victory at the nearby Ume Hibachi. It was usually well known for participants who passed their trial to commemorate their success and cheer up those who didn’t make it.

Netto has heard of these hibachi restaurants before, they were popular in other countries, especially Ameroupe and Kingland. However, the term was a mistranslation. When he hears the term, hibachi, he is thinking of a pot used for heating the room or a traditionally, elaborate heating device before the advent of electricity. When they enter the restaurant, he sees tables with built-in grills in which customers can cook their food. He quickly understood that they were referring to shichirin, a table used for cooking.

The large group of people that came with Netto, Isla, and Aeon had to divide into separate groups to commemorate the capacity of the largest tables in the restaurant. Netto was sitting at a table with Dr. Cerys, Draga, Angel, Ruby, Frost, Henshin, and R.C.

Earlier, they were served drinks, slices of various meat like pork and chicken, and vegetables. “A toast to Netto, Aeon, and Isla’s success!” Ruby cheered. Everyone clinked their glasses and soda bottles to celebrate the occasion. The adults were the only ones to consume alcoholic drinks.

“You did well at your trial, Netto,” Draga commented.

“Yeah, I’m surprised you did it on your first trial,” Henshin added. “I think your experience will help me take my second chance.”

“I don’t mind if you don’t take it again, Henshin, I’m not judging you.”

“It’s fine,” Henshin replied, “I think your perseverance has given me some courage to try again.”

“You think so,” Netto beamed. “I’m glad!”

Dr. Cerys puts the small slices on the grill and smoke starts to bellow out from the grill. The smell of cooked meat filled the table. “It will take a few minutes for the meat to be cooked. So eat your vegetables for now.” Netto happily takes a small piece of broccoli with his chopsticks and eats it. The previously steamed green stem was very delicious.

At another table sits Aeon and Isla along with their siblings. “You did great at your trial, Isla!” Lina beamed. “I can’t believe you are a Grass Magic User! Maybe we can grow a garden together? I heard Grass Magic Users are usually close to nature.”

“Maybe later, sis,” Isla answered. “I just got my powers, though I’m not much of a gardener.”

“I can’t believe you actually completed your trial, Aeon,” Savannah said perplexed. “I thought you would never complete it.”

“We suck it, Savannah! I passed it and now I’m a classified Terrain User!” Aeon boasted. He looks back at the table at which Netto is eating a piece of cooked pork from his plate. “I think I owe Netto for that.”

While everyone was chatting and celebrating a huge achievement, Draga was in deep thought. She wasn’t seeing things; she saw clearly that Netto using dark powers to finish the boss. Either he was a Dark Type User or ‘his’ vessel.

After everyone finished and paid for their meal, they all departed back to Beach Flora Town.

- Cerys Residence [Netto’s Room] -

Netto was pleased with himself, he managed to complete a difficult trial and had new weapons and magical powers. And the best part was, he did it all by himself! No help from his friends and NetNavi. This proves that he is more capable than he thought. He could picture how jealous Dekao would be that he has cool powers, maybe Enzan would want those as well.

However, Netto’s thoughts wandered back to the Mirror Labyrinth that experience was scary. If Aeon and Isla weren’t there, he probably pass out.

“Man, I’m glad that I passed that trial and ate good food on top of that! It was a very exhilarating day! But why do I still feel homesick?” Netto pondered. He tosses on his bed as his thoughts are chaotic. “I shouldn’t be but I wonder how everyone is doing? My parents? My friends? Did Rockman even survive the explosion? *sigh* If only there was a way to find out how everyone is doing after my departure?”

He goes back to sleep, too tired to talk to Draco.

A lot of time passed after the harrowing Process of Discovery Trial.  Everything seems to be peaceful after that event in Avril Denka. During that time, Netto spends his time getting closer to the locals of Beach Flora town particularly those around his age group.

Since he was currently living in Dr. Cerys’s Beach House, he would spend the most time with Draga and Angel. Netto is very interested in Dr. Cerys’s work, particularly in the technology that materializes NetNavis and Viruses in the real world. Angel is more open with Netto, as she told him that she was a Wind Type Magic User. However, Draga seems distant after the end of the Process of Discovery Trial.

Ruby would teach Netto how to cook simple dishes but nothing complex like a pork roast. Instead, she teaches him how to make s’mores in the kitchen using a blow torch. Netto was a bit taken aback her parents would allow her to use one. She also opens up about collecting fireworks as a hobby, but only those that she can legally own without a permit. This explains why she always carries some. Netto notes that she would easily get along with Nenji and NapalmMan since they also create fireworks.  

Frost shows Netto his ice sculpting hobby. Since he was a Water Type User, he would use his powers to make huge blocks of ice and practice. Netto was amazed at how skilled he became at this.

R.C. presents Netto with her book collection and drafts containing various stories that she would write during her downtime. Netto was curious and read one of her many prompts. This one details a boy getting over the break-up of an ex-girlfriend and decides to improve himself by pursuing his interests in career and hobbies. Unfortunately, the girls want to be with him due to his drive for self-improvement. Too bad, he’s not currently interested in dating because of his recent break-up. R.C. explains she’s going through various drafts on how to develop the characters before going towards the romance stuff. The reason why she’s doing this is because romance is not always about feelings but how good the chemistry between two people is. She also considers portraying all types of relationships so the reader can identify which is healthy or toxic.

Netto got closer to Bulleta mostly due to training and honing his skills in weapons. Due to this, he also got closer to Stacy by default. He found out that she seemed to have an interest in death. Netto was a bit unnerved at his new friend’s obsession with death but shrugged it off.

Sometimes, he would meet with Felica at his uncle’s weapon shop and have small chats about various topics. Although, most of their conversations center on how certain weapons are made and how support members would assist their combat members.

Aeon was indebted to Netto and showed the brunette his hobby of music. He notes that Meiru-chan would get along well with him since they enjoy playing and making music. Even, Aeon notes that his favorite instrument was his electronic piano, a contrast to Meiru’s classical one.

Isla was an outdoor person, who would show Netto some sick tricks when rollerblading. Netto would exchange his moves and teach her how to grind rails. She seems like a very outgoing and humble person, though Aeon would tell him that she was a lot more selfish before.

Spending time in Beach Flora Town had made Netto more relaxed. The extra time had given him enough time to explore new hobbies that he would have no time due to school and his Net Savior duties. On top of unlocking and learning to master his electric powers, he’s been using it to tinker with electronics. Dr. Cerys gave him a spare tablet that she won at a raffle ticket draw. Sometimes he would draw up inventions and would try to build them up based on the blueprints. However, most of the time, it would fail due to a lack of knowledge and being too difficult to complete. Due to all the sketches of the blueprints, he started to get interested in drawing itself. Draga had given him, a small notebook that she never used as a mini sketchbook. However, he may need to earn some money as the supplies he needs for his hobbies are pretty pricey such as certain tools for dissembling and resembling electronic devices and high-quality colored pencils.

He did notice something odd about this world’s internet. When he was borrowing Dr. Cerys’s old computer, the next seemed very different compared to his. He barely saw any NetNavis since they were a rarity. Most of them were normal NetNavis since custom ones were a rarity, especially in his world. He notes that the anti-software seems to be very well made compared to the ones back home. If the performance was slow, he would bring up that software and would easily clean up all the cache data and viruses. He could understand why NetNavis was unnecessary. Why get one when you have perfectly functional software to take care of those pesky viruses? He did miss seeing them everywhere back in his old home. To him, NetNavis are digital companions that would help assist you with everyday life.

However, when searching through various chat rooms and forums he notes that NetNavis was slowly growing in popularity. One user notes that ever since he got his new NetNavi his mental health has greatly improved. Netto recalled that Navi’s voice did comfort him when he was in the Mirror Labyrinth. Another user points out that NetNavis are sentient beings despite having a shallower understanding of human emotion.

As he scrolls down and through various posts, he compares how people view Navis of this world to his old one. Many users debate the ethics of giving digital programs rights as they were tools to assist their operators. However, Netto was miffed at people using their Navigator as a tool instead of being their lifelong friend. He did hear about this complex question back home when he would visit his father from time to time. Some opinions don’t change when it comes to the morality and the rights of NetNavis. How do they feel about this? Would they want the right to be independent? Or are they content being with their operators? The truth is it depends on the Navi and their relationship with their operator.

If their operator is cruel to the Navi then of course they want to be independent. Better to be alone than with an abusive operator. However, if the operator was kind to them then of course they would want to be close to them. Netto ponders that if Rockman came to the real world would he want to be more independent or remain close to him? He spent at least a month in the world, but how much time has passed in his old world? As for Rockman, his parents would be taking care of him, especially Papa since he did create him. But how would Rockman adjust to his new life without him? His thoughts about Navi independence and the well-being of his Navi seem to swirl in his mind. Netto shook his head as if his blue friend would be all right. He has his parents and friends to keep him company.

- West Area [Carina Household] -

Later that day, Netto decides to bring Ruby and Frost to Isla’s house where she lives with her two sisters. He tried inviting R.C. but she was busy with something else. He was curious about what it was like living with two siblings. When he went to visit the household, he noticed that it was a two-story house with a white exterior with a brown roof and door. This house was suitable for a large family. The trio climbed up the stairs and Frost presses the doorbell.

“Coming!” A female voice replied. The door opened and the voice belonged to Isla’s older sister, Malosi. “Oh, hello! Are you here to see Isla?”

“Yes, it is she home?” Ruby asked, “We just want to hang out with her.”

“Oh, she’s in the kitchen,” Malosi replied. “She’s making the spaghetti sauce.”

“But isn’t it a bit too early to be making lunch? It’s 10 AM right now,” Ruby asked.

“Oh, Ruby, you have no idea how long it does to take to slave away at making spaghetti sauce from scratch,” Malosi said. “At the fastest, 45 minutes, but at the worst, 1 hour to make.”

“Yikes, so is it okay if we still come in? We can wait for her,” Netto asked.

“Sure. Hey, Isla! Your friends are here to see you!” Malosi called.

“Hang on guys, I’m almost done with the sauce!” Isla replied, “It’s almost done simmering.”

“You guys can relax in the living room until Isla is done,” Malosi suggested. The eldest sister then goes back into the kitchen to check to see if Isla has finished cooking the sauce. Netto and his friends decide to head to the living room which was in front of the kitchen. The trio sits on the couch debating on which TV shows to watch.

“Let’s watch the Monster Truck marathon,” Ruby suggested.

“Uh, Ruby that marathon doesn’t start ‘til 7,” Frost replied. “Let’s watch some cartoons, that’s the only thing on television worth investing in these days.” Frost takes the remote and flips to a certain channel about cartoons from foreign countries.

“Oh, you have anime here?” Netto beamed.

“Yeah, there’s a channel dedicated to anime from Japan from all decades,” Ruby replied. “I think a complication on 60s anime is on this week.”

“Back in my home, I had to wait until after Mama finishes her soap operas so I could watch some,” Netto recollected.

“Alright, all done!” Isla announced as she went into the living room.

“Oh, Isla, you done with cooking?”

“Malosi is helping Lina cook the pasta. By the way, you can watch that channel in my room.” Isla replied, “Come on, my room is upstairs!” Ruby turns off the TV before following the rest up to the braided girl’s room.

- Isla’s Room -

Netto noticed how brightly colored her room was. Her room aesthetic seems to be based on the 80s. There were purple neon lights along the white ceiling as well as some cyan neon signs next to her white vanity. Her bed was full size with green sheets and purple pillows with white flora designs. There was a flat-screen TV attached to her pastel, green wall above her white dresser. Besides it was a closet door that housed her various clothes.

The group split up and went to do various things around Isla’s room. Ruby sits on the bench in front of Isla’s bed and turns on the TV using the remote on top of one of the side tables. Frost was sitting on the floor reading some of Isla’s about Magic User abilities. “So, Isla how are your powers going along?”

“Oh, I’ve been reading a lot ever since I got them,” Isla replied. “Amar has been helping a ton on finding credible sources.”

Her Navi then pops on her laptop screen. “It is true, I’ve been looking at all sorts of online guides to help Isla take better control of her powers.”

“So what, have you found so far, Amar?” Frost asked.

“I have found some guides on Grass Magic User abilities,” Amar informed. “Grass Users can inflict all sorts of static afflictions onto their opponents such as paralysis and poison.”

‘That seems a lot like the Wood-Type back home,’ Netto mentally noted.

“Oh, Netto, you can look around, I don’t mind,” Isla offered.

This caught Netto off-guard, “Oh, uh sure…” He was curious about what Isla kept in her room. Netto found some old fashion magazines on some of the side tables. He skims through various styles and advertisements on various products.

“By the way, I also found an update about the Type reclassification,” Amar informed. “They are going to rename the types and will be put into effect next month in June.”

“June? Isn’t that next month?”

Netto froze which means his birthday is coming soon. But he wasn’t comfortable sharing that information yet.

“What types are going to be affected by renaming?” Frost asked.

“According to this list, in the Common Category, Normal is renamed to Null/No element, Water is changed to Aqua, Grass is renamed to Wood, Electric is shortened to Elec. Uncommon Category, Invisible is shortened to Invis, and Stat is changed to Plus.” Amar read from the official magic user guide.

“Wait, aren’t those the types classified for NetNavis and Viruses?” Netto blurted out.

“Yes, apparently due to the rapid expansion and popularity of Navis, the Magic Classification Unit decided it was the best opportunity to rename the types.”

“That’s pretty cool yet confusing,” Ruby commented. “So, Isla is now a Wood Type and Frost’s reclassified as an Aqua Type? Good thing, my type name hasn’t changed.”

“I think you can still use those terms, it’s just the reclassification will be used in the future,” Isla replied. “I think in legal tournaments or something?”

“Really, you have tournaments in this world?!”

“Yup, we have Net Battle tournaments here, but they’re on a smaller scale here,” Isla confirmed. “I recently won the Spring Flower one.”

“Man, I wish I had Rockman with me,” Netto whined. “I really wanted to participate in the new season.”

“Actually registration does not begin until June 27^th,” Amar informed. “The name of this season is Rising Summer.”

‘I guess I can’t join the next one either,’ Netto mentally pondered. ‘I will be gone on June 22^nd though it is useless as I do need a NetNavi and some form of identification to enter.’ “So guy, I was wondering if we can visit Aeon-kun’s place after lunch.”

“Sure, why not? Though Aeon does do nothing at all,” Isla ribbed. “In fact, the last time I visited. Aeon was making some music on his computer with Radio.”

- Lyron Residence -

After Netto and his friends eat lunch, Isla guides them to Aeon and Savannah’s home since she does visit them often. The brunette was amazed at how modern this house was. The structure can be described as blocky as it is mostly white, but he can see a pool in the backyard behind a palm tree. Isla goes up to the door and knocks on it. Savannah was the one to answer it. “Hey Isla, here to visit with your friends?

“It was Netto’s choice,” Isla answered.                                  

“Can we see Aeon?”

“He’s in his room,” Savannah points to a row of stairs that lead up to the second floor. As the group steps inside the house, Netto notices that the room looks more like a liminal hallway. To the left was the kitchen, on the right were the stars that led to the second floor, and down the hall was the living room. “You guys can go to his room, I’m just grabbing a snack.” Savannah went to the kitchen and Netto peers by the doorway to see the girl getting some cookies from the pantry.

“Come on, Netto! Let’s go see, Aeon!” Isla called.

Netto follows the rest of the group upstairs. They went into an open yellow door with Aeon’s name on it. Isla taps on the door which gets Aeon’s attention. “Hey, Isla! I see you brought Netto, Ruby, and Frost with you.” Netto was the first to step into Aeon’s room and take a look around. It was more modernized than Isla’s. Grey walls with musical notes painted on, and wooden floors with a yellow rug in the middle. Aeon was on his wooden desk and his black laptop was open. He noticed that a program was open. He recognized it as a music creator program. It reminds him of when he was allowed to listen to Meiru playing on the piano. Thinking about his old friend brought back feelings of homesickness.

“So Netto, do you want to listen to my new song?” Aeon asked, “With some help with Radio, we managed to make a cohesive beat.” Netto replies with a simple yes and the black, dreadlocked boy hands him some headphones that were hooked up to the laptop. “Hit it, Radio!”

The grey and yellow NetNavi plays the song and Netto listens to it. The song itself was nice to the ears. The tone was upbeat and well put together. “This sounds really good, Aeon-kun!”

“Ah, thanks, Netto. I’m glad you like it,” Aeon smiled. He then turns around and starts typing on the computer. “I just need to save my file and convert it into a different format. Then upload it onto my WaveTune Account.”

“What’s WaveTune?”

“It’s a website in which you can submit your music for others to listen to,” Aeon replied. “Though I haven’t been uploading a lot lately due to quality check.”

“There’s nothing wrong with that,” Netto assured. “I rather listen to 5 good songs than 15 mediocre ones.”

“Yeah, quality over quantity.”

“Anyway, Netto, I was wondering if you’re allowed to stay at other people’s houses?” Ruby pondered.

“I don’t know, I could ask Dr. Cerys about it,” Netto replied. “Since she is taking care of me, I think it’s fair to tell her about where I’m going to stay.”

“Well, can you call her?” Ruby asked. “I prepared a party tonight. My parents allowed it since it is friends only.”

“What’s the occasion?”

“The success of You, Isla, and Aeon’s trial duh!” Ruby answered, “I’ve gathered all of the neighborhood kids that can come. So don’t be late! Oh, and by the way, I got permission from my parents so it's all good.”

- Unido Household -

Once nighttime hits, Netto visits Ruby’s home with Frost accompanying him. The bandana boy was impressed by the terracotta feel that her house gave off. A two-story home with a stone staircase leading to the front porch.

“I’m surprised that Draga and Angel didn’t come with us,” Frost commented.

“Draga-chan had to go visit another friend while Angel-chan had to finish some homework,” Netto answered. “But, she’ll come to the party later.”

“That’s good, I wonder who else is going to be at the party?” Frost pondered.

“I hope they’re friendly,” Netto added. As Netto opened the front door, the party was already underway. Some of the kids have started playing on the TV using a new gaming console. Others are either enjoying the food or playing ping-pong on the farthest side of the room. The brunette noticed there was a glass wall in front of it that acted like a barrier to the rest of the living room.

“Oh, guys! Glad, you can make it!” Ruby beamed. She gives Netto and Frost two cups of juice. Frost’s cup was blue raspberry flavored while Netto’s was plain orange with no pulp. “Anyway, welcome to my humble casa!”

“I like it, it’s very homey and cozy.”

“Mom’s almost done with the potato salad,” Ruby added. “Look around and mingle with the others.” When the scent of her mother’s dish hits her nostrils, she licks her lips. “I’m going to go check with Mom to see if her food’s done.” The red jacket girl then heads into the kitchen.

“Mrs. Unido is a very good cook.” Frost replied, “You’ll love her potato salad.”

Netto was curious when he went around the living room. He does see some familiar faces. Isla and Aeon, Bulleta and Stacy, and even Henshin and Felica. Though he couldn’t see R.C. anywhere.

“Hi, are you Netto?” A small girl with long pink hair comes into his view. She had green eyes and fair skin. She wore an aqua green vest over a white tee shirt with magenta highlights, a long white skirt, black socks, and magenta shoes with black highlights and soles. Additional accessories include a black choker and matching bands.

“Um, yes and you are?”

“I’m Aimi Tsubaki!” The pink-haired girl beamed, “I heard from the others that you passed the Process of Discovery Trial, I’m so jealous. I wish I could join the group, but mom said I’m too young. So, I had to wait for a couple of years to attempt it.”

“Hello, Aimi-chan,” Netto greeted. “I hope we can be friends.”

“Me, too!” Aimi beamed in response.

“So, you’re Netto, right?” A girl with short brown hair and blue eyes approaches the duo. Besides her was a younger girl who was a few inches taller than Aimi. She had blonde hair tied into a ponytail and peeking out of a pink and white cap and blue eyes.

“I’m Aile and this is my friend, Ciel Rei,” Aile introduced. “I’m actually impressed that you were able to pass your trial the first time.”

Netto noticed that her clothes were a short-sleeved blue jacket with yellow cuffs over a black 3/4^th sleeve shirt, khaki shorts with black leggings and a white belt, yellow socks, and blue shoes with black soles.

Ciel’s clothing was a pink jacket in a similar style to Aile’s with pockets, a cerise pink skirt, black stockings and white socks, and pink shoes. Additional accessories were gloves and a hair clip attached to her cerise pink and white cap. It was a down arrow colored aqua green on a black background with the surrounding ring being yellow.

“Actually, Isla and Aeon did as well,” Netto clarified. “You did hear that from them, right?”

“Well, of course. Though something is interesting about you,” Aile pondered. “I’ve heard you came from another world.” Netto gulped, how did she know so quickly? Did Draga or Angel tell her? Or did she get her information from a third party? “Hey, relax, I’m just curious. I’m surprised that someone from another world managed to pull it off, despite being from a dimension that is void of magic.”

“Oh, really is that so?” Netto breathes a sigh of relief, ‘I’m glad, she’s not malicious.’ Something clicked in Netto’s mind, he seems to be more avoidant of suspicious people. Before, he couldn’t tell the difference between a person with a good heart and a person with dark intentions. Could his newfound powers from Draco be affecting this?

“Hello, Netto.” Ciel’s greeting took Netto away from his intrigued thoughts. “So this internet-connected world you come from, do they do some sort of coding?”

“I guess,” Netto replied. “Though that’s a pretty broad topic you brought up, Ciel-chan. I mean programming skills are important where I’m from.”

“Really, that’s cool,” Ciel beamed. “So I do know that you need to learn some coding skills to build a NetNavi from scratch.”

“Yes, Papa would build NetNavis from scratch,” Netto remembered fondly. “In fact, Rockman was built by him. Though part of his personality to nag at me on correcting my lazy habits or something.”

“Oh my, so you’re saying that your father programmed your Navi to be some sort of responsible sibling or something?” Aile joked.

“Now that you mention it,” Netto recalls how his Navi reacts to his actions. Whenever he would procrastinate on homework or arrive late to his classes, Rockman would scold him the same way an older sibling would. Now, he understood why the blue Navi did was to correct his behavior though it would mostly lead to heated fights. However, even though they would butt heads due to punctuality and finishing important tasks, he is still his closest companion.

“Anyway, Netto, I was wondering if you reunite with your Navi can I see him?” Ciel asked. “I’m just curious about how your Navi is made.”

“Sorry, Ciel, but I think Rockman needs to agree to the study as well,” Netto rejected. “I don’t think he would be very comfortable by a stranger. Besides, I heard that checkups are painful for NetNavis.”

“Is that so, I’m sorry I don’t know that could emotionally affect a Navi that much without their consent.”

“It’s fine, Ciel. You didn’t mean it since NetNavis are particularly new here.” Netto assured, “If Papa was here he would teach you the simple basics of NetNavi design.” 

Later, Netto went to where some of the kids were playing with the video game console. He notices Henshin sitting on the couch with two girls beside him.

“Hey Netto,” Henshin beamed. “Nice to see you at the party! These are my friends, Briana and Bella.”

Briana’s appearance reminds Netto of Iris with her long brown hair matching eyes and butterfly clips, but that’s where the similarities end. Her locks had pink highlights and the hair accessories had ribbons. She wore a white shawl cape with a dark pink bow, a dress with a pink bodice with a dark pink ribbon a white flower accessory with a bright green leaf around the waist, a translucent light blue skirt, and knee-length pink boots. Additionally, there were two yellow bracelets on her right wrist with one having a pink gem.

Bella also had short brown hair and the right side was cut off which reveals her ear. She also had light brown eyes and tanned skin. Her outfit was a red dress with a black tank top peeking from the chest area, black knee socks, and brown shoes. Additional accessories were a black headband, a red spherical gem with pink ribbons sticking out, a black choker, black and yellow bracelets, an insignia of a yellow trapezoid inside a red circle on a black background, and a yellow border ring.

“Hi, nice to meet you!” Briana greeted with her cheerful attitude.

“Hello, Netto,” Bella greeted with more elegance in her tone.

“So Netto, do you want to play some multiplayer games together?” Henshin asked. “I’ll just disconnect the controls from the console and we can play using one separately. Frost can use another controller.”

“I’ve never heard of a gaming console that has connected controls that you can easily remove and play with,” Netto commented.

“The best part is that you can take on the go.” Henshin added, “Just remove it from the dock and play it on your lap. Very convenient and portable.”

“That’s pretty cool, I wish there was something like this back home.”

Henshin then removes two joy-con controllers from the console and connects them separately along with another controller. Once everything was connected the three boys spent an hour or two playing fighting and racing games.

After playing with Henshin, Frost and Netto decide to chat with Bulleta, Stacy, and Felica when it comes to combat and weapons.

“So Bulleta-chan, you actually were living on your own before you were taken in by your uncle?”

“Yes, before I had no choice to defend myself,” Bulleta recollected. “It was pretty rough. During my time on the streets, I learned how to fight and utilize weapons.”

“So Stacy, you know about Bulleta’s past?”

“Yes, we met in a cemetery,” Stacy recalled. “It was after my grandmother died that we first met.”

“That’s very wholesome in a morbid sense.”

“So Felica, how is your uncle’s weapon shop doing?”

“Business is good as usual,” Felica smiled.      

 Netto decides to explore the party more by himself and comes across Isla and Aeon on the balcony upstairs. They chatted for a bit as they discussed on what they discovered with their newfound powers.

“The other day when I was using some rocks as practice, I produced sound waves,” Aeon chatted.

“That’s pretty cool, what about you Isla?”

“I’ve been learning how to utilize different status effects such as poison, paralyze, and sleep,” Isla replied. “Amar’s help was pretty useful.”

Radioman and Amar then pop up on their respective shoulders. Netto felt a pang of sadness in his heart as it reminded him of how Rockman always appeared on his shoulder. He misses his holographic presence. However, something seems to be missing. “Hey, is there a network for Navis to hang out?”

“Nope, none of the appliances here have a plug-in port,” Radioman replied. “Though there have been announcements from various companies releasing newer versions that do have networks due to the booming popularity of the PET and Net Navigator phenomenon.”

“There’s even a catalog that details the release of these special appliances,” Amar added. “If all goes well then the earliest they can be publicly available is next year.”

“I see,” Netto commented. It was pretty jarring to see that this world was behind in terms of the development of NetNavi and PET Technology. Almost as if they’re beginning to grasp this new technological concept.

Ruby’s voice can be heard from downstairs. “EVERYONE, THE FOOD IS READY!”

“Well, it’s time to grab some grub,” Aeon commented, “I’m starving!”

As the group went inside, Netto noticed Savannah and Angel among the group.

“Hey, Angel!” Aeon greeted.

“Where’s Draga, is she not coming?” Isla asked.

“She had to meet up with Natsu and R.C.,” Angel replied. “So, we’re eating without them.”

Netto was disappointed that Draga was not coming despite the fact she told him beforehand. She did have a hand in helping Netto adjust to this new world. Though an unfamiliar name left him intrigued, “Wait, who’s Natsu?”

“She another friend of ours,” Angel replied. “She’s a bigger bookworm than R.C.”

“Alright everyone, let’s eat!” Mrs. Unido announced.

Everyone agreed and happily took their food and enjoyed savoring the taste of their meals.

- Pinku Household -

Natsu’s house looks very elegant with purple shingle roofs and white walls. Pink flowers can be seen growing around the front porch and on the front yard’s white fence.

Inside, Draga was having a conversation with R.C. by her side across the dinner table was Natsu. She was draped in her green knit blanket. Her clothes were a soft lavender, beanie cap with a pompom in which her long blonde, messy hair is seen flowing out, a pink sweater with her insignia being a pink dot on a black background surrounded by a yellow border, a purple skirt, white over-the-knee socks, and pink and purple shoes with black soles.

“So Draga and R.C. what brings you here to my home this late at night?” Natsu asked, “I hope it’s something important?”

“Natsu, I think Netto has awakened as an Aaron?”

“The Aaron? Draco’s vessel?!” Natsu gasped, “But we haven’t seen another one in over a millennial. Draga are you absolutely sure?”

“I am,” Draga firmly stated. “When I was accompanying Netto on his Process of Discovery Trial, his eyes glowed red and his black started to emit dark power. That is a subtle sign of the Aaron.”

“If that’s the case, then we need to find a way for Netto to awaken his power much more smoothly,” Natsu replied. “I know it has been a thousand years since the last Aaron awakened but there have been multiple studies that are similar to that and have been documented. The only problem was that the test groups were all Dark-Type users.”

“Then we need to do more research,” Draga noted. “I bought my various notes on the Legend itself, so we have some references on what to search for. I already called my aunt and told her I’m staying the night. I don’t want her to get too suspicious.”

“Well, should we start?” R.C. asked. “I’m curious about what we can find.”

“Let’s begin then, Mira could you start the online search?”

Mira appeared on her shoulder in holographic form. Her helmet was divided into three different colors (olive green at the top, white in the middle, and the bottom Sacramento green) with apple green ribbons that go to the back and slightly curved out. Her face was peach fair skin but her eyes were the same color as her ribbons. Her body suit was black. Her armor was similar to a dress with the upper torso having a jagged pattern that matched the colors of her helmet, an apple green skirt, fingerless Sacramento green, fingerless gloves, and knee-high boots with heart-red gems and green boots with white tips and black soles.

“Of course, Natsu,” Mira replied. She quickly brings up a screen and begins typing vigorously to look up anything related to Draco and Aaron.   

- Unido Household -

“Aw, you’re not going to stay over tonight?” Ruby pouted.

“Sorry, Ruby but we just phoned Dr. Cerys earlier and she said we need to go back home.” Angel apologized, “Maybe another time.”

“Alright then,” Ruby sighed. “I’m just disappointed that you won’t be able to stay.”

“See you later, Ruby-chan!” Netto beamed. “We’ll have a sleepover at your house another time.”

“Really, I can’t wait!” Ruby smiled. “Have a safe trip home!”

- Cerys Residence -

“We’re home, Dr. Cerys!” Angel announced.

“Oh, Angel and Netto, how was the party?” Dr. Cerys asked, looking up from reading a newspaper.

“It was pretty great, I got to eat Mrs. Unido’s food,” Netto smiled. ‘I think Mama would get along with Ruby’s mother. Both like to cook good food.’

“That’s great, Netto,” Dr. Cerys smiled. “I’m glad you enjoyed the party.”

“*yawn* Well, it’s getting late, so I’m going to bed,” Angel said. The blonde girl goes upstairs to retire for the night.

“Netto, I’ve gotten some news from the police,” Dr. Cerys announced. “We are no closer to contacting anyone in your family. So, for the time being, I’m your temporary legal guardian until we can find your parents or any other of your family members.”

“Oh, I see,” Netto commented. “So, if I can’t contact them, could I stay here?”

“You mean, permanently stay here in Beach Flora?” Dr. Cerys summarized, “If that’s the case then we have to file a lot of legal paperwork in terms of citizenship, medical records, etc. We’ll discuss this at a later time. For now, just rest for tonight. It’s getting late.”

Netto agrees and goes back to his room to sleep for the night. As he slept in his bed, his face contorted to one of confusion.

- Netto’s Dreamscape -

In his dream, he was sleeping on top of a pool covered by a glass cover. He can hear the crickets chirping and the sound of water underneath him. He felt someone’s hand on his shoulder slowly shake him. Netto was annoyed and tried to go back to sleep. The shaking got more violent but he was stubborn. What finally stirred him awake was the voice of a stranger.

“Wake up…Netto…”

He quickly sat up on the glass cover of the pool and saw a girl who was older than him staring back at him. He deducted she could be around Saloma or Miyuki’s age. She had long blue hair tied into a low ponytail and raven-blue eyes. Her clothes were a magenta jacket, dark blue shorts that reached slightly above the knee, black socks, and matching shoes with black highlights and soles.

“W-who are you?” Netto stammered, “And how do you know my name?!”

“Relax, I’m not here to harm you,” the blue-haired girl reassured, “My name is Sapphire Raven.”

“Sapphire?” Netto uttered, “That’s a pretty name, but why are you in my dream?”

“I can ask you the same thing,” Sapphire added. “What are you doing in my dream?”

“Did our dreams collide somehow?”

“I guess so…”

“So, where do you live?”

Sapphire was taken aback by his question. It has been a while since someone asked her about her personal life. “You’re asking me?”

“Yes, I am curious,” Netto bluntly answered. “I have never seen you before but you know me.”

“Well, you are a well-known hero in Japan,” Sapphire reasoned. “I’ve heard various stories of you in my home of Green Town.”

“Green Town? So you don’t live in Akihara?”

“No, but I do visit your town occasionally but normally I stay at a hotel that my uncle, Azur, would use during his business trips.” Sapphire answered, “Do you have any friends? I do know that you are the operator of Rockman, the son of Dr. Yuuichiro Hikari and his wife. Though I’m not sure if you have any friends.”

“I do, loads of them!” Netto beamed. “Meiru-chan Sakura and Dekao-kun Ooyamo are my childhood friends. Yaito-chan Ayanokoji and Tohru-kun Hikawa are my friends from my school, Akihara Elementary. I also have Enzan Ijuin and Laika, but they’re more than rivals. Oh and Dingo, too! I almost forgot about him. What about you?”

“Well, my friends are Rollen Voorjar, Crysilla, Rasp Kuuki, and Wisely,” Sapphire replied. “I do have acquaintances like Shard, Opal, and Corla.”

“They seem like really nice people,” Netto commented with a smile. He notices that Sapphire starts to frown and clutch the rim of her shorts. “Is there something wrong?”

“Hey, Netto…This is going to be hard for me to break this to you.” Sapphire paused as she gulped a few drops of her saliva though they felt more like lead as she had to drop a harsh truth on the young boy. “But you’re dead.”

Netto was shocked by what Sapphire had told her. “Wait, what? Dead?!” Netto replied in pure shock, “But I’m alive! See, I have a pulse!”

Sapphire hesitated but pressed on Netto’s wrist. Odd, there was a pulse. If this was a dream then is Netto alive? Or is this another thing in the dreamscape and Netto is unaware that he is dead? She takes a deep breath and continues, “No, Netto I mean that you were declared dead. 5 years ago, you were legally dead in a train explosion. Despite not finding your body or anytime of your remains, the only items found were your bloody bandana and your destroyed Link PET.”

The news alone caused Netto to gap from shock and horror. He did not take it well. “No…That’s a lie…” Netto muttered.

“Netto?” Sapphire uttered though the look in his eyes was screaming denial.

“It’s a lie…It’s a lie! IT’S A LIE!” Netto cried. He clamped his ears with his ears and balled up to his knees, trying to block out the terrible news. “IT’S A LIE! I TELL YOU, I’M NOT DEAD! IT’S A LIE, IT’S A LIE, IT’S A LIE!” He kept repeating the same phrase over and over again like a mad mantra.

“Netto, please calm down,” Sapphire pleaded. “Breath! You’re hyperventilating, just take deep breaths.”

“It’s a lie…” Netto repeated. Sweat starts to condense on his skin and tears start to form on his eyes. The world around him seems to fill with static and his ears start to ring loudly. It can’t be true right? Why would they declare him dead? He was alive and well not dead.

“Take your time…I’m here.” Netto felt Sapphire’s hands on his shoulders and gave him a reassuring grip.

This was the worst time to have a panic attack. Why was he having them right now? He didn’t have them before. He could handle stressful situations before, so why was this different? He closed his eyes and took a few deep breaths albeit shaky. Everything stopped for a moment. Then the ringing stopped. Netto slowly opens his pupils and makes eye contact with Sapphire’s blue irises that were filled with worry.

“I-I’m okay, now…” Netto stuttered, “I’m sorry, you had to see that.”

“No, it’s okay, I understand,” Sapphire assured. “You can’t control when you have a panic attack.”

“So, is it true? Am I dead back home?”

“Yes, unfortunately,” Sapphire cautioned. “The investigation lasted a year before a declaration of death was stated. It wasn’t easy, your parents and your friends were devastated when the status was announced.”

“So, they had a funeral without my body?” Netto uttered. A chill went down his spine at the thought of his picture on top of an empty coffin.

“The funeral was a private matter, so I was unable to go,” Sapphire answered. She removes her hands from his shoulders and rests them on her lap to continue. “I know it’s difficult to process. I went through something similar to yours. My parents died when I was sixteen in a traffic accident.”

“Oh, I’m sorry…”

“You don’t have to. It was two years ago and I had the support of my Uncle Azur, my NetNavi, FlowerGirl, and my friends to pull me through that dark time of life. It wasn’t easy to grieve the loss of my parents during my high school years.”

“I’m curious about how my family and friends are doing,” Netto deflected. “Is Rockman okay?”

“Of course, when I accompanied my uncle on one of his business trips I met your father and your Navi together.” Sapphire answered, “Rockman is safe and sound.”

Netto breathed a sigh of relief, at least his Navi was okay. “Hey, Sapphire. Could you keep an eye on my family and friends? I know it’s a lot but I want to make sure that they’re okay.”

“I’ll do my best to keep tabs on them,” Sapphire replied. ‘I wonder why he asked me to do something so personal and invasive.’

“Thank you!” Netto thanked.

“Then if you are alive where are you currently?”

“Beach Flora Town!” Netto beamed, “Though this may be hard to believe; I think I’m in another dimension. So could you help me find a way back home?”

“I’ll see what I can do,” Sapphire replied.

Netto started to get drowsy as everything got blurry and faded to black.

Netto felt refreshed after having a good night's sleep. He noticed that Draga was in the kitchen eating her breakfast with Angel. “Oh, Draga-chan, you’re home! How was your visit with R.C. at your friend, Natsu’s home?”

“It was okay…” Draga replied, “Netto, I want to show you something.”

“Really?”

“Are you going to show him that room?” Angel asked. “It’s a pretty cool area. Draga will show you more.”

- Draga’s Room -

The winged brunette girl’s room had red-violet walls, a white ceiling, and pale wooden floors. Her bed had ruby red colored sheets with a heart-patterned blanket and white pillows. Her wooden desk was white, her closet was a walk-in in which various clothes were seen and a white dresser for storing various items that Draga could not find a place for. “All right Netto, this is my secret. Angel, close the door.”

The blonde girl complied and closed the door behind her. Netto was confused yet intrigued. What was Draga to show him? And why were they being so secretive? She pulls away her pink heart-shaped rug to reveal a hidden door. The piqued Netto’s curiosity, “A secret entrance?”

She opens the door by undoing the latch. “Follow me,” Draga instructed. Netto trails after the winged brunette with Angel tagging along. As they traverse down the stairs, they reach a room with stone-bricked walls with no windows, machines, and glass tubes that seem to reach the ceiling, and at the center of the room seems to be a transportation device.

“Whoa, this is so cool! Who created all of this?” Netto asked with intrigue.

“This room was created by my parents before my death, along with a family friend,” Draga explained. “Auntie Cerys is also aware of this room’s existence.”

“What about the others?”

“Ruby and Frost are the only ones that know about this room.” Angel answered, “They seem to be keeping their part in making sure this room stays secret.”

“But why?”

“Netto, this is known as the Portal Dimension Room,” Draga explained. “My parents and a family friend were researching the existence of different dimensions. So when you told us about alternate dimensions, it got me thinking about why you were transported here to our world in the first place. Nevertheless, let me turn on the machine so we can transverse.”

“Traverse where?”

“A pocket dimension,” Angel explained. “The machines produce energy to power up the transportation pad to send us there.”

“Does this dimension -”

“No, it’s an isolated one,” Draga replied. “It’s not connected to the wider Internet nor does it connect to the other dimensions. It was created to see if it was possible to make one with the technology available.” She presses a cyan button and the transportation devices glow. A portal suddenly appeared and Netto could see an island full of flowers at the other side. Netto notes that the portal was similar to a Fossa Ambience. “Follow me!” Draga jumps into the portal.

“Come on, we shouldn’t keep Draga waiting,” Angel commented as she calmly walked into the portal.

Netto took a deep breath before strolling into the same portal. After going through it, he notices that it wasn’t an instant teleport. He was in some sort of liminal space. He felt the streams of data going past him. It reminds him of when he sees Rockman traversing from one area to the next on the Net. However, the colors were different yet calming with blue and green as well as a tinge of orange and yellow. He continues to walk forward wondering if it would reach him to his destination. His eyes glanced at the weird scenery. He stops once he sees the portal with the image of an island filled with various flowers. “I guess this is the one?” He reaches out his right hand and it goes through. He quickly withdrew it but it wasn’t hurt. Netto takes a deep breath and with fortitude and inner strength walks toward the portal; he closes his eyes as he is engulfed in a bright light.

- Flower Paradise -

A bright light suddenly appears on the island and fades to reveal Netto. He opens his eyes and sees an endless amount of flowers before him. “What is this place?”

“Netto, over here!” Angel cried.

Netto heads up a dirt path and passes a sign labeled, “Beheshta Island”, to catch up with Angel and Draga.

“Netto, this is Beheshta Island, also known as Flower Paradise.” Draga explained, “This island contains all types of flowers ranging from the common to the extremely rare are found here.”

“I can tell,” Netto commented. He could recognize some of the common flowers like tulips, roses, and peonies. However, when he looks further back, he notices some pretty rare ones especially ones that were said to be extinct in his home world. He wonders if there are any other islands to explore but all he sees is water. “I guess this island is the only one here.”

“Anyway, Netto since you’re new here. I’ll show you around,” Angel offered.

“I’ll be going somewhere else,” Draga said. “I’ll meet up with you later.” Netto notices that Draga is walking towards another path that leads to a temple.

“Where is she going?”

“That’s the All-Seekers Temple,” Angel replied. “It showcases events from different universes but it is so random that we could not be sure if we’re seeing events of our universe or another.”

“That’s pretty amazing, I want to see it!” Netto exulted with interest.

“Uh, later, come on, I’ll show you around.” Angel grabs Netto’s arm and shows him around the small flower island. As Netto and Angel traverse and explore the island, Netto notices that the flower variation is very different depending on the location. When they went towards the mountain area, Netto saw that the flowers were completely different. The petals seem sharper when he touched them. He was confused when he saw an orange flower that resembled a paintbrush.

“That’s an Indian Paintbrush,” Angel answered. “Draga and I were researching new plants to add to the garden when we were scrolling the Internet. As Netto and Angel reached the top of the mountain, Netto could fully see the island.

“Whoa, the place looks beautiful up here,” Netto commented. He could understand why Laika would enjoy seeing the mountains back in his home country. The view was amazing.

“We’re not done yet, we have to go to the forest area.” Angel informed, “There are more flowers there than here in the mountains.”

“I’ve been to the forest before,” Netto recalled. “Bach home, I went hiking with my friends and Saloma-san…” He paused as he felt a sudden rush of homesickness when mentioning his old lie.

“Uh, Netto, you okay?”

“Sorry, just homesickness,” Netto confessed. “I’ve been here for at least a month and I miss my old home.”

“Is living here uncomfortable or unmanageable for you?” Angel asked.

This question took Netto aback, “N-no! It’s very comfortable and peaceful here and easy to manage. Everyone is so friendly here and has magic powers like in Star Potter?”

“Okay, first off what is Star Potter*? Second, who’s Saloma?”

“Oh, Star Potter is a fantasy series,” Netto explained. “A mix of sci-fi and fantasy since it did have a reboot. And Saloma-san’s a friend of mine who is passionate about gardening. She also has a NetNavi named Woodman.”

“That’s pretty interesting, Star Potter, never heard of it here…”

“The series doesn’t exist here?”

“No, but we have something similar but it has fallen in popularity over the years. It was a combination of different factors like drama from the author posting weird stuff on her social account that relates to the canon of the franchise, crazy fans, etc.” Angel explained, “Because of that, the series isn’t as popular.”

“I see,” Netto commented. “I think we’ve seen everything around here, should we go back and reunite with Draga-chan?”

“Huh, sure,” Angel replied. “I know a shortcut to the temple.”

- All-Seekers Temple -

The temple seems pretty plain on the outside due to the structure being made out of stone bricks. The palm trees bend to complement its otherwise plain design. Draga was standing in front of a well that seemed to be glowing with a calm blue aura.

“What is that?”

“Oh, you’re back from your tour?” Draga turns around to face the duo. She then explained what she was doing near the well. “Netto, this is the Universal Pool,” Draga explained. “It shows us glimpses or visions of what happens in our or the other dimensions. In other words, it lets us see events from either the past, present, or future. However, it is randomized and we cannot be sure what time it takes place nor the context surrounding it.”

“That’s pretty cool, despite the weird rule. Can I try it?”

“Wait, Netto. Before we use it, I want to confirm something. Are you the Aaron, Draco’s current vessel?”

Netto froze and was shocked by Draga’s question. How did she figure it out so easily?

“Uh, Draga, what are you talking about?” Angel asked. “We haven’t seen an Aaron in over 1,000 years. What makes you so sure that Netto is the latest one?”

“Angel, when I was accompanying Netto and the others during the trial, in the final chamber and dealing with the boss, for a brief second his eyes turned red and his sword flickered with dark energy when he dealt the final blow.”

“Netto is this true?”

Netto was silent, it was time to come clean. “Yeah, it’s true. I’m the Aaron, Draco’s vessel.”

“Are you serious? If that’s the case, how did Netto come into contact with Draco in the first place?!”

“Angel, don’t you remember? Draco or Purity could only contact a potential vessel in their dream,” Draga explained. “They don’t possess that vessel unless without their consent. If you say no, then they’ll leave you alone and find another candidate. But if you accept, you gain their powers. My family has been keeping records that date back towards when the existence of the two was known.”

“So this legend, Draco and Purity. You did mention them in passing,” Angel asked. “Sorry, I forgot who Purity is.”

“She’s Draco’s sister, though since Netto is the Aaron, he already told him that.”

“Well, he did tell me that the reason he chose me was because he needs my help rescuing her,” Netto explained.

“How did Purity get captured?” Angel asked, “Isn’t she as powerful as him?”

“Well, I’m not sure, unless she was forced to comply due to the safety of her new vessel.” Draga suggested, “If it is true, then the other four dimensions could be at risk.”

“Are you serious, this is a more serious issue than we thought?” Angel fretted, “We need to gather a powerful team to combat this new evil then!”

“That is true but I believe we should keep this on the down low for now,” Draga suggested. “The last thing we want is the public to panic and start a war.”

“I hate keeping secrets from others but if it’s for the safety of someone then I can make an exception.”

“So, you girls will help me?”

“Of course, Netto!” Angel replied, “Besides I’ve always wanted to go on adventure and expand my horizons. Staying in Beach Flora Town is getting boring, a little interdimensional adventure will suffice it.”

“Netto, did Draco tell you anything about a portal opening up?”

“Yes, he told me that on the Summer Solstice, a portal will take us to any of the four dimensions that Draco and his sister were watching over.”

“That’s June the 22^nd,” Angel gasped. “So we have at least ‘til next month to prepare for our journey. If only there was another way to travel dimensions without relying on a portal that randomly.”

“There was,” Netto replied. “Draco mentioned it was called the Ancient Relic. However, only vessels are allowed to use it. And even then, you need a Dimension Key that corresponds to the Dimension you need to travel through. When going over the explanation of it, it seems quite convoluted.”

“Well, there could be many reasons for those restrictions Netto,” Draga reasoned. “Maybe they were trying to protect the other dimensions from causing an interdimensional war. I have a feeling this isn’t the first time.” 

“That seems pretty serious,” Angel replied. “Not to mention how long it takes to adjust to the cultures and customs of a new world. They could easily use these relics to steal valuable resources from the other dimensions.”

“Exactly, and why Draco and Purity put restrictions to prevent events like this from occurring.”

“Netto, Draco may have put you into a great role that if you are not careful; you could jeopardize the safety of the four dimensions,” Draga cautioned. “Your old home, my home and the other two are at great risk.”

Netto understood the situation that Draga presented to him. He has travel dimensions before but this time is different. If he was careless then the peace of four worlds could be shattered. His old home, family, and friends (both old and new) could suffer an indiscernible war that could take many decades to recover. He clutches his chest and stares at Draga with resolve in his eyes. “Draga-chan, I know what I did was risky but if I had one chance to see my loved ones then I would gladly take it. Hell, if I was suddenly whisked away to another world without warning then of course I want to go back home.”

“I understand,” Draga acknowledged. “No one likes to be taken away from their comfortable life. A place full of love and understanding suddenly snatched away from you. I hope you make the right decision, Netto.” She looks back at the Universal Pool pondering about something. “You know Netto, I wasn’t able to test this before but I think an Aaron and/or a Zeva could see events from the world they choose.”

“What, but I thought that pool could show events at random regarding the four dimensions?”

“Normally, yes but if my assumptions are correct then Netto, you could see what life is like after you were sent to our world. You could see what your family and friends are doing.”

“Really? Then let’s get started then!” Netto happily goes in front of the pool and sees his reflection in the still water. “So how does it work?”

“Just focus your energy on the pool and it will show you the visions you seek.” Draga introduced, “However, keep in mind that it may not show you an accurate timeline of events. The visions that you will see might be out of order. Do you still wish to see them?”

Netto was hesitant at first but he wanted to know what happened after he was gone. “Yes, I’m ready.” Netto closes his eyes and his hands start to glow a dark red. He opened his irises and was shocked to see the aftermath. The pool swirled to reveal a vivid vision of a couple of people crowding around a gravesite. To his horror, he recognizes the group as his friends and family. Papa, Mama, Meiru, Enzan, Dekao, Yaito, Tohru, and most of the Cross Fusion members. They were all wearing black and mourning. He looked closely at the tombstone text and was shocked to see his name engraved on it. “I-It’s true. What she said was true…I am dead back home…” Tears start to pool in his eyes. “D-Does that mean…I-I can’t go back home?”

“Netto, are you okay?”

Netto suddenly flees and heads to the woods.

“Netto, wait!”

“Let him go, Angel,” Draga said.

“Draga? Are you really sure about that?”

“He saw something from the pool that was very upsetting.”

“What are we going to do?” Angel asked.

“Just give him space, Angel.” Draga replied, “I think he needs time to process.”

Deep into the woods, he finds a lone pine tree and cries his eyes out.

After returning from Flower Paradise, Netto had spent the rest of the day in his room. Now that he knows the truth, what will happen when he does return home? Did they want him back? Or will they abandon him for not telling them the truth? Being whisked away to another world was not his fault, so he does trust they may not do that. But now what? Time flow was different between dimensions, so Netto could not tell how much time had truly passed. It could be months or years.

One thing was certain, he was declared dead so there is a chance they may not take him back due to how busy they were in their everyday lives. They may not be around him anymore. Are they even in the same country? Or did some of them move away?

“This sucks,” Netto muttered. “I’m declared dead and I don’t what to do anymore. Do I even have a home to go to?” He stares up at the ceiling of his empty room. He just goes to sleep with no dinner due to his diminished appetite from today’s events.

- Netto’s Dreamscape -

Netto’s eyes flutter and he was lying on top of the circular pool. He stares up at the full moon with dull eyes. What will he do now? He could the sound of footsteps coming towards his location but Netto just laid still. It was Sapphire again, obscuring his view of the grey rock. Her dark blue eyes were full of worry about how dull and blank he was.

“Netto, are you okay?”

Netto blinks and rolls to his side. Sapphire was concerned and just stayed by his side. Netto just continued to lay in his unmoving position as he was done with life in general. The blue-haired girl sighed, she knew that the boy was coming to terms with his declaration of death status. “Netto, I’m sorry for dropping that on you last week. I didn’t think you would react this badly.”

This caught Netto by surprise as he sat up and comforted Sapphire, “What, no don’t blame yourself for that! I mean, yeah I’m upset by the news. Who would be when they found out they were declared dead!”

“Legally, Netto,” Sapphire clarified. “I was researching about how long it takes to legally declare someone dead. Apparently, there are some exceptions. You were one of them. I was researching your case that I can legally access and looked up the legality and evidence recovered from the accident. Your old PET that Rockman was in at that time of the explosion was fortunate enough to not be cindered.

A glint of hope appeared in Netto’s eyes. “So if I go back then my legally dead status will be removed?”

“I’m not too sure about that since I’m not a lawyer,” Sapphire doubted. “However, I do have one offer for you. If your family and old friends don’t accept you back if you return to your old home then I’ll take you in.”

“Really? I’m speechless but thank you, Onee-san! I’ll gladly take that offer.”

“Onee-san?”

“Yeah, because you’re a very supportable older girl,” Netto beamed.

“I’m not that old,” Sapphire whined. “If you weren’t whisked away five years ago, you would be about my age.”

“Sorry, sorry, I meant it as a compliment,” Netto apologized. “Besides, not many girls support me emotionally except Meiru-chan and maybe Yaito-chan on occasion.”

“Is that so,” Sapphire commented.

“So what are Meiru-chan and the others doing?”

“Funny story, I went to visit a newly opened MaHa restaurant in my home.”

“Really, but wait why would Mahajarama open a new one in your small hometown?”

“Oh, Green Town is a part of a larger city called Cyber City,” Sapphire explained. “My town focuses on plant life and justice.”

“Cyber City? That sounds pretty cool. How many towns make it up?”

“It is actually divided into four sections. Central, Green, Sky, and Seaside,” Sapphire explained. “Central is the main body of Cyber City, Sky is above, while Seaside is close to the ocean.”

“That’s pretty cool,” Netto commented. “If I do go back to my old dimension then I’ll try to visit you as much as I can!”

“I’m glad,” Sapphire replied. “As for Meiru and the others, I actually encountered them when I went to visit MaHa #3. By some stroke of fate, I accidentally bumped into all of them. To be honest, I was scared as I thought they would accuse me of spying on them.”

“Why would they do that? You were just there by coincidence,” Netto pointed out. “Besides, I don’t think my old friends would think that negatively about you. After all, you just met them.”

“Sorry, I was just paranoid that they may accuse me as a stalker,” Sapphire confessed. “It doesn’t help I’ve been monitoring their social accounts with FlowerGirl’s help.”

“It’s fine, it is for my sake after all,” Netto assured. “I’m sure they don’t mind if they found out that it was me that sent you to monitor them.”

“Netto that sounds so wrong out of context,” Sapphire commented.

Netto was confused but switched to gratitude. “Hey, Onee-san, I – thank you for helping me. I didn’t think I would get out of my panic attack without your help.”

“No problem, Netto,” Sapphire replied. “I thought it was appropriate to help you during that stressful time. So Netto, what do want to do?”

“Hmmm? What do you mean?” Netto asked.

“I mean what do want to do for the rest of your life?” Sapphire asked, “I know it’s random and a big question that doesn’t have a definite answer. I mean what do want to do in the future? Do you want to stay in your new home or do you want to return to your old one?”

“I-I don’t know,” Netto stuttered. “I mean I want to go home but at the same time, I don’t. I’m just so confused.”

“I see, you’re conflicted on which one is your true home,” Sapphire examined. “Well, wait for a bit, don’t rush into it.”

“What do you mean?”

“I mean take more time in considering where your true home is,” Sapphire explained. “Time has passed a lot back in your old home after all. Besides Netto, I think you should know better. Do you really think your family and old friends will easily accept a declaration of death without your body?”

This sends Netto out of his stupor, “but I saw…”

“You only saw one small piece of it, not the whole story,” Sapphire explained. “You should stop for a while to gather all the pieces to get the bigger picture. I know you are younger than me, but you shouldn’t be very reckless in your decisions.”

“That’s true, I tend to be reckless. I do have a very big responsibility,” Netto pondered. “If I chose wrong then four dimensions are in danger.”

This raised Sapphire’s curiosity with the lift of her eyebrow, “Wait, what? Netto, what do you do to bear this responsibility?”

“I, uh accepted a contract with a shape-shifting being,” Netto confessed.

Sapphire stared at Netto incredulously, “Are you serious? You took a deal without considering the consequences?”

“I didn’t get manipulated; he did tell me that if I helped him rescue his sister then I can go home!” Netto explained, “Though after I found out about my legally dead status, I’m not sure if I made the right choice.”

“Netto, if you want my honest advice then you should keep going,” Sapphire suggested. “I know it’s not the soundest thing right now. But I think you are afraid that if you make a very big decision, you could cause irreversible damage in the future. It’s okay if you mess up, we’re humans we make mistakes but we learn from them. We don’t have control over everything. What we do have control over is our attitude and our choices.”

Netto was very attentive to what Sapphire was saying, “So what happens if I choose wrong and it’s irreversible?”

“What’s done is done,” Sapphire replied. “You did all that you could do to make sure it did not go wrong so horribly. Some things are inevitable like death and taxes. You learn from it and move on.”

Netto cracked a little smile at her little inside joke. “Thanks, Onee-san, I really need that.”

“No problem, Netto,” Sapphire replied. “Hey, if this is a dream then maybe I could conjure something up.” She then balls her hands together and a ball of magenta light forms when she slowly opens them up.

“Whoa, that is so cool!” Netto commented, “Can you do something else?”

Sapphire concentrates on the small light and it forms into a doll version of herself. It reminded Netto of when Rockman left a smaller decoy doll when he used the Kawarimi* battle chip. It had Sapphire’s blue hair, a magenta hoodie jacket that showed black fabric underneath, and rave blue jean shorts. He noticed that it wasn’t wearing any shoes and the mouth was missing.

“Here for you.” Sapphire gifts Netto her doll counterpart. “Think of it as a reminder of me. I’ll try my best to support you from the sidelines.”

Thank you,” Netto thanked. “I won’t forget you. I’ll do my best to support you even if I’m in another world than yours.” Sapphire waves goodbye as Netto’s vision starts to blur.

- Netto’s Room -

Netto’s eyes fluttered open as he was back in his room. The light was seeping through the curtains.

Knock! Knock! “Netto, are you awake? Do you want to eat breakfast?” Draga’s voice was heard from the other side of his bedroom door, “I understand if you’re not hungry.”

“No, I’ll be coming down to eat with you guys,” Netto replied. “Just let me get dressed.” As he sits on his bed, he notices the same doll from his dream. Odd, how did it get here in his room in the real world? He was sure that he locked the door yesterday. Could items from his dreamscape be transported to the real world? He left the doll on his bed and changed into his regular clothes before going downstairs for breakfast.

Netto sits quietly at the table with the other girls silently eating their breakfast. He stares at his plate of food, French toast with berries. He can feel the tension in the air due to the events of last night.

“Hey Netto, are you feeling better?” Angel asked, “You were pretty shaken after you fled from the Universal Pool.”

“Yeah, I’m feeling better,” Netto repeated. “So you don’t have to worry.”

“Kind of hard not to since you’re usually so active and friendly,” Angel commented.

Dr. Cerys smiled at the atmosphere getting lighter.

“I’ll be fine,” Netto beamed with a genuine smile. “Let’s enjoy our food and have a great day.”

“Yes, let’s take it slow,” Dr. Cerys added. “One small step at a time, every day.” Netto nods in agreement, that it will take time for wounds to heal.

Chapter Text

Netto sits on one of the couches in the living room after eating breakfast. Angel was also present as Draga explained about the Legend of Draco and Purity.

“Alright, Netto, are you ready to listen to the Legend of Draco and Purity?” Draga asked. Netto nods his head in agreement. “Now this story pertains to two dragons named Draco and Purity. They were siblings who could shapeshift into anything or anyone. In the beginning, there was a primordial dragon called Chaos, who was responsible for their birth. Draco, the dragon of Darkness, and Purity, the dragon of Light. Purity is considered pure and gentle, but she can be easily manipulated due to her kind nature. Draco is considered rash and ill-tempered at times but he is supportive of those he cares about. Now both of them cannot normally appear in their true forms. For them to walk among us, they must find a vessel that they consider worthy. Both dragons have different requirements when it comes to choosing a vessel.

Purity’s easier as you need to have a sense of justice and a good heart. However, Draco’s requirements are a bit stricter. The person must have faced many harsh trials against powerful foes and gained the respect of many. Both Purity and Draco will not accept people who want to be their vessels for selfish reasons. The dragons themselves are the ones who pick their vessels based on their criteria. Is the information too lengthy for you to listen, Netto?”

“No, it’s not. I can understand it clearly,” Netto replied, “Keep going.”

“Right, oh yes! Draco and Purity’s vessels. Now if either dragon finds you worthy they will appear in your dream and offer you a contract to become their vessel.” Draga continued, “They will enter your body as a mist and you will assume their appearance of what they might look like as a human in the era their vessel was from. A vessel of Draco is named the Aaron while Purity’s vessel is labeled the Zeva.” She then gets out a folder full of images and documents and spreads them onto the table. “With the help of R.C. and Natsu, we managed to find some documents that detailed Draco and Purity from the distant past.” Netto was enraptured by the artwork and sketches detailing the two dragons wearing different clothing from various eras. Draco was wearing 18^th century clothing with the recorded vessel name at the time being Fredrick Ellis*. There was another drawing from the artist, Natalie Hilda* that dated from the 9^th century. It details Purity wearing white and purple medieval robes.

“Hey, Draga, about the vessel naming, why Aaron and Zeva?” Angel asked, “You mention those terms when discussing the vessel but never tell the true meaning of them.”

“Oh, that's because the first vessels were named Aaron and Zeva,” Draga replied. “They were the first ones when Draco and Purity made contact with the mortals of the dimensions.” Her face turned serious when she turned to Netto. “Netto, there are some things I should tell you about the risks involving using Draco and Purity’s powers,” Draga cautioned. “If you don’t learn and train your body to adjust to their powers then there is a chance that you will lose control and go insane from the intensity.” Netto nods in acknowledgment as Draco tells him that all new vessels start with a limiter, could this be the reason? “All Aarons and Zevas obtain a limiter in the form of a choker or necklace so that the beginners will have an easier time controlling their newfound powers. Over time, they’ll control almost all the power in their bodies.”

“Has anyone tried controlling all the borrowed power from either Draco or Purity?” Netto asked.

“Yes, but it is rare,” Draga replied. “The percentage to use all of Draco or Purity’s power is a 10 – 15% success rate. To reach the 100% rate, you must have mastered all the skills and weapons, Draco or Purity have learned throughout the years with the help of their various vessels. Once you reach this rate, you keep your sanity intact and reach a form that resembles their true form. I have a list of all of the recorded moves I managed to find from both Draco and Purity, so you can look at them later. So, now that I have told you all that I know about the two legendary dragons. I am curious about you Netto, why did Draco choose you?”

“Yeah, I’m curious as well. Why did he choose you?” Angel added.

“I’m not sure but Draco gave me a deal I couldn’t refuse, I want to go back home,” Netto replied. “But since I found out I’m declared dead then I’m not sure if that’s the right choice, so I’m not sure what to do. Should I uphold my end of the bargain?”

“Well, you should,” Draga encouraged. “Draco doesn’t back out of a deal. You did say, you had to rescue his sister.”

“Yeah, Draco mentioned that Purity was captured because she was afraid that her vessel was in danger.” Netto recalled, “Though he was worried about why he couldn’t feel her presence anymore.”

“Somebody must have put a seal on her,” Draga answered.

“A seal but why? I thought Draco and Purity were gods?” Angel asked.

“Why yes but once they cross and walk amongst us, their power is severely weakened,” Draga explained. “Apparently in the saved records, Draco and Purity need their vessels to manifest in the four worlds.”

“Wait, four worlds? You mean there are at least three different versions of our dimension?”

“Yes, that is true, Draco told me,” Netto replied. “The only thing the four dimensions share in common is that they use the PET and NetNavi technology. I’m not sure how advanced they are in terms of using that technology.”

“Well, we just got started with this whole PET and NetNavi technology thing,” Angel replied. “How far is your old dimensional home in terms of PET and NetNavis?”

“Well, it’s being used in everyday life,” Netto explained. “Everything is literally connected to the internet. It’s a requirement to use a PET and NetNavi for both school and work.”

“That important huh?” Draga commented, “Well, that’s one down but we have no idea what the other two would be like.”

“That’s okay because Draco told me there was a way to travel to the other dimensions,” Netto assured. “Apparently, there is a portal that appears every 1,000 years that will transport you to the other three dimensions. Although, it is random.”

“Are you serious?” Angel gasped, “So if we take this portal, there’s no way we go to the dimension we want to go.”

“Yes.”

“Is there another way?”

“Well, Draco also told me that there’s a way. There’s a secret place called the Ancient Relic that can allow vessels to visit any dimension they want,” Netto explained. “But for some reason, Draco can’t access it due to it being destroyed or being inactive for so long.”

“Wait, then this Ancient Relic place, is there one in each dimension?”

“Yes, but first we need to pinpoint where it is located. Though, if Draco can’t find it then it probably is gone.”

“Wait, Netto, we shouldn’t quickly write it off. In fact, I think it was found though by accident.”

“Let’s just say, Arline Tamashii was part of an expedition and came across something unbelievable.” Draga explained, “She had found an ancient temple that seems to date thousands of years ago. Apparently, there were some groups that worshiped Draco, Purity, and their mother, Chaos. However, they were lost towards time and only their structures remained.”

“You mean Draco and Purity formed their own cult or something?” Angel commented, “That’s pretty interesting.”

“So Draga, could you take us to where this structure is? I want to see if this is the Ancient Relic, maybe there is a way to activate it again!”

“Sure, I know just the place, let’s go to the Ancients History Museum!”

- North Area [Ancients History Museum] -

From the outside the museum seems to be based on an old temple made out of white marble. It has pillars that were staggeringly high from his point of view. Statues carved out of the same material were placed in front to emphasize the entrance. On the top were large red banners printed in blocky Greek white letters to emphasize the name of this place.

“This is the museum? It reminds me of the ones I went to in Ameroupe,” Netto commented.

“Uh, Netto? Ameroupe is not a country.”

“It is from my home dimension.”

“Interesting…” Angel commented.

Netto looked and saw Draga was already on her cell phone calling someone. “Yes, thank you. You’ll come? Alright, I’ll tell them.” She ends the call and informs Angel and Netto about her earlier conversation. “I just phoned R.C. and Natsu, they’ll be coming soon. We just need to wait in the museum’s main lobby for their arrival.”

“Wait, R.C.-chan and Natsu already knew?”

“Not exactly, I told my suspicions about you being the next Aaron but never confirmed it,” Draga explained. “Once they arrive, we will further discuss about your new status as Draco’s Vessel.”

During the wait, Netto was incredibly nervous. What was he supposed to say to him? R.C. would be okay but he doesn’t know who Natsu is. Would she be pretty critical of him? He was twiddling his fingers in anticipation of the two girls’ arrival.

“R.C.! Natsu! Over here!” Draga called.

Netto looks up and sees R.C. and a blond girl that was older and a few inches taller than her. She fumbles with her pink squared-rimmed glasses before locking eyes with the brunette. “Oh my goodness! Are you Netto? Draga told me a lot about you! I’m Natsu Pinku, an avid bookworm. This is my NetNavi, Mira. EXE.” A small hologram of a green, white, and black Navi appears on Natsu’s right shoulder. The most notable details that Netto noticed were her ribbons and her green handbag.

“Nice to meet you, Netto.” Mira greeted, “I’m Mira. EXE, Natsu’s personal assistant.”

“Nice to meet you, Mira,” Netto replied.

“Now that everyone has gathered and given introductions, we need to meet up with Arline.”

“Who is Arline, anyway?” Netto asked.

“She’s a friend of Dr. Cerys,” Angel explained. “They were close friends back when they were attending high school. They kept in contact with each other.”

“Before Arline was the curator of this museum, she actually went on a few archaeologic digs with some of her college friends.” Draga explained, “On one of these expeditions she stumbled upon a structure that could be the Ancient Relic that Netto mentioned. But first, we need to head to her office.”

- Arline’s Office -

Netto was amazed by the number of paintings, displays of weird-looking objects, and vintage furniture in the neutral tones of the red and blue room. He also noticed the huge amount of cabinets with various labels on the drawers. Could they be filled with samples that Arline is putting away for further research? To be honest, this is one of the few times he ever visits a curator’s office. He was curious about what Arline looked like. He speculates that she could be around Dr. Cerys’s age. So mid-thirties to early forties? What outfit should she be wearing? Perhaps a suit, most curators he did see always wear a suit. Maybe a casual business style kind?

“Hey, where is Arline? I don’t see her anywhere?” R.C. observed, “Is she out today?”

“I’m here, do you need anything?”

Netto was completely flabbergasted as his speculation about Arline’s appearance was completely thrown out the window. She looks way different and could easily pass as a sixteen-year-old. She had short, dark brown hair, slightly pale skin, and dark green eyes. Her outfit was totally different. Instead of a suit or any type of formal clothing, she wore a simple black hoodie with flame designs but the right sleeve was torn, a short blue mini-skirt with a white belt and pink ribbons, black knee socks, and brown boots with pink zippers. “Wait, y-you’re the curator? But y-y-you look so young, you can easily pass for a high school student!”

“Looks can be deceiving, young one,” Arline explained. “So you’re Netto, right? Dr. Cerys had told me about you. She’s the one taking care of you?”

“Yes.”

“I’ve also heard from Draga that you’re the new Aaron.”

Netto gulped as she already found out. This was getting uncomfortable.

“Well, I’m glad that we already have one!” Arline beamed. She grasped one of Netto’s hands as excitement twinkled in her eyes. “It is a great honor to meet one. Well, the last one was recorded over a millennium ago. Luckily, we have records saved in our museum’s archives. I’m sure you already know from Draga about the Aaron and Zeva.”

“Yes, so tell me about the previous Aaron?” Netto asked.

“Why, of course, but first it is important that you see something crucial before you can begin your training,” Arline informed. “You will learn something important about your role as Draco’s vessel.”

The curator then leads the group past the various displays of ancient relics that belong to lost civilizations, dinosaur fossils, and harvested precious gems. “This place sure has everything,” Netto commented. The museum sure does look bigger inside than outside. The interior had multiple floors with red banners adorned with the same Greek font in a gold color hanging from the ceiling.

“This museum is more of an archive due to the many finds from various archeological digs,” Arline explained. “What we are going to is a slab that details the Legend of Draco and Purity.” The group stops in front of a display that seems to be a broken fragment of a larger painting. It depicts a painting that had a silhouette of a boy that vaguely resembles Netto with his hand outstretched. Behind him seemed to be the body of a dragon but it was hard to tell as it was cut off slightly above the elbows. Additionally, there was text but it was ineligible due to how foreign it was. However, Draga was the one to translate it as her family seemed to be the only people who could understand the language.

“When the vessel of Draco is revealed, he/she will blend into shadows and summon their allies at their command to aid them at the time of crisis. They will bring hope or ruin to the world.

Those exposed to Draco must have faced many life-threatening trials either by themselves or the help of others, and have gained something from the journey before finishing these trials. Once they have fully learned to control Draco’s gained powers, they will unlock the power of the true darkness.”

“T-that’s really cool,” Netto commented. “So Draco is really a dragon that can shapeshift?”

“Well, Draco can be considered a God if that is the case. So it is possible,” Draga reasoned.

“But why didn’t he tell me this before?” Netto asked, “Do I have the power of a real God inside of me?”

“Well, that explains why a vessel needs to train otherwise they fall into insanity,” Angel commented. “Comprehending a God especially their given powers is very hard for mortals to comprehend.”

Netto gulped, oh boy the responsibility complies down upon him. Draga places her hand on his shoulder. “Netto, I can understand the weight of your duty as the Aaron, but we can help you ease the burden. So let us help you.”

“Uh, thank you,” Netto nodded. He slowly understands that when dealing with big responsibilities due requires a support group. He does have a habit of helping others rather than helping himself. He wishes he could do things by himself so others wouldn’t get hurt. “I guess I really do need help.”

“There’s nothing wrong asking for help from others,” Angel assured. “Just don’t be too dependent on them.”

“Netto, we’ll try our best to support you on your new duty.”

“Thanks, everyone,” Netto smiled.

“But still, why would Draco choose you? You would be a more suitable vessel for Purity,” R.C. commented. “Your actions reflect that you are kind with a sense of justice.”

“I don’t know but maybe it’s because of all the threats I manage to stop with Rockman,” Netto reasoned. “Back in my home, I dealt with six different threats which were WWW, Pharaohman, Nebula, Neo WWW, Duo, the Cyber Beasts, and Cache. During those trials, I gained a lot of experience and friends from those ordeals.”

“Whoa, Netto, I didn’t know you were a huge hero back in your old home.”

“Hehe, I don’t mind bragging but it wasn’t easy dealing with those evil threats.”

“That’s pretty cool, though,” R.C. commented. “I don’t think I could handle one.”

“But still, I need to know why I was sent here in the first place?” Netto pondered, “Did Draco transport me here? Or was it someone or something else?”

“Maybe that’s something you need to tell Draco, yourself,” Draga commented.

“I guess…” Netto replied, “But wait, we still need to tell the others about my current status. Though I don’t feel comfortable telling everyone yet. I mean it’s cool, I have God-like powers but how would the others feel?”

“You don’t have to tell everyone, just the people you feel you can trust,” Draga assured.

“Well, there are at least a few people, I can trust but we need to gather them at the Chroma Juice Bar in East Area,” Netto answered. “I hope they don’t judge me too harshly.”

“Why, should they?” Angel replied, “In fact, they would be proud that their new friend is the newly discovered Aaron.”

“You think so?”

“Positive!” Angel smiled.

- East Area [Chroma Juice Bar] -

“What! You’re the new Aaron!?” Ruby cried.

“Not, so loud, Ruby,” Bulleta chastised.

Netto had invited Ruby, Frost, Aeon, Isla, and Bulleta to their usual hang-out spot.

“Netto, how long were you the Aaron?”

“The first few days I was in this town,” Netto replied. “As you know, I’m not a native of this world, I’m actually from a different dimension.”

“Yeah, we know,” Isla commented. “Though to think there was a way to travel to other worlds. It is pretty amazing to think about. It gets me thinking about what the other dimensions are like in terms of people and culture. Would it be similar to ours or something much more different and bizarre?”

“Well, I know that my old home is one of them,” Netto confirmed. “Everything is connected to the Internet and it is full of life due to how much NetNavis there are.”

“So it’s like a unified world there?”

“That’s right, once we go back to my old home, I’ll show you guys.” Netto replied, “Your Navis will like it a lot.”

“I can’t wait,” Radioman beamed as he materialized on Aeon’s shoulder.

“I am curious about what the Internet looks like from Netto’s old world,” Amar added as she also materialized on Isla’s shoulder.

“Alright, then it’s settled, we already got the directions from Arline-san, so we can go tomorrow and check the place out.”

“But wait, who’s going to drive there?” Ruby asked, “I mean I’m too young to have a driver’s permit.”

“I have a driver’s license, a full one at that.” The cyan jacket, brunette flashed his card to the group.

“Frost, how the fuck did you get one, I still have a learner’s permit!” Aeon complained.

“I passed my driver’s test, two months ago,” Frost replied. “I didn’t tell anyone because no one asked.” 

“Wait, Frost, how old are you?”

“Sixteen,” Frost replied. “I’m legally old enough to get a full license*.”

“So, it’s settled, Frost will drive us to this location.” Draga takes out a map and shows the group the location circled with a red marker. “This is the spot where Arline found the temple.”

“Then it’s settled, we head out in the morning.” Isla replied, “I’ll tell my folks that I’m going on a trip with you guys.”

“I’ll be driving my parents’ old Grand Highlander car,” Frost informed. “It’s an old one but it’s in good condition.”

“Okay, so we head out tomorrow at 10 AM.” Draga informed, “We’ll try to get up early at 9 AM.”

“Sounds good to me,” Aeon smiled, “I do want to go on a little road trip away from town.”

“We’re only going to be gone for a few hours,” Draga informed, “We’re not going to be gone for a whole day.”

“Still, a trip is a trip.”

- West Area [Kumo Residence] -

Netto was pretty relaxed when visiting Frost’s home. The neutral blues and the greys gave the living room a pretty relaxing atmosphere. He could read a manga book or browse the internet if he was placed in this room. There were pictures of mountains hanging on the walls and a huge window with light blue curtains that took up an entire wall. The furniture was some grey and blue couches, a glass table, a fireplace, and some imitation plants that resemble ferns that could be found in the mountains.

Everyone was relaxing on the couches waiting for the last person to arrive. Netto took a mental head count on who was there and who was not. Ruby was present, Aeon was relaxing on the couch, Isla was looking something up on her Link PET, and Bulleta was calling someone on her purple cell phone. He looked towards his left and Draga was there. So who were they waiting for?

The front door slams open revealing R.C. and Natsu. “*huff* *huff* Sorry guys,” R.C. apologized. “Natsu spent way too much time in the library and almost missed the meet-up time. I had to drag her here.”

“Sorry, but I managed to find a book pertaining to the Legend.” Natsu replied, “I think Netto will like this book.” She quickly gives the book to the brunette.

He looks over the cover, Draconian Tales. “Um, thanks, but is this supposed to be related to Draco?”

“I think so,” Natsu guessed. “It’s actually written journal entries recorded from the previous Aaron’s experiences. So I think it would be nice to read about what he went through with his journey with Draco.”

“Really?”                                                           

“Alright, everyone the food is ready!”

“Okay! Let’s eat, I’m starving,” Ruby commented.

The kitchen was a cool grey, with marble counters and tiled white floors. The dinner table was displayed with French toast and pancakes. Everyone gets seated and starts to eat. Netto was reading the book while quietly eating his pancakes. He was reading the first page, apparently the previous Aaron was named Adlai Asher. He details how he met Draco in his dream just like Netto had. His eyes were glued to the pages as he had to deal with exploring his newfound powers and experimenting with them. Draco seems to be the type to do his own thing and only comes when you ask him a question. He was about to get more onto what Adlai discovered when R.C. stewed up out from his thoughts.

“Hey, Netto? Listen can we talk after we go to the Ancient Relic?”

“Uh, sure what for?”

“Just to hang out,” R.C. replied. “Talk and stuff.”

“Oh, trying to ask Netto out?” Isla teased.

“Wait, what?” Netto asked abashed.

“No offense, Isla but I’m not interested in Netto romantically,” R.C. bluntly states. “It just pertains to the whole Draco vessel thing alright?”

Netto was a bit down that he was rejected but relieved that R.C. didn’t want to date him. Does he want a relationship? Not now at least.

- Oasis Route -

After their breakfast was eaten and all the dishes were washed, Netto and his gang set out towards the path leading to the Ancient Relic. Frost was in the driver’s seat with Draga sitting beside him, holding a map to navigate him across the dirt path. Netto was still reading his book, he was at the chapter of what Adlai had discovered when he was still the Aaron.

“Hey, Netto, you should stop reading now, otherwise you could get carsick,” Natsu cautioned.

“Oh, sorry,” Netto apologized, “But I can’t seem to put this book down. I have to know more about what Adlai and Draco did together. Could his knowledge be more useful?”

“You can read more when we get out of the vehicle,” R.C. assured. “For now, just focus on the trip.”

“There, Frost, make a turn on that path,” Draga instructed. Frost turned his wheel to the right and the car steered towards the fork in the road. “Stop, this is the place.”

Frost parks the car in front of an entrance that was recently open. Everyone quickly exits the vehicle and sees it.

“Is that the entrance towards the Ancient Relic?”

“It is,” Draga confirmed, “Arline showed me this place a few years but I remember the pathway there.”

- Ancient Relic [Version B] -

As Netto and the others enter an open room, they notice a platform with four inactive ports though it is hard to tell due to how dark and obscure it is. “I can barely see anything,” Netto commented.

“Allow me!” Ruby offered. She conjures a flame in her and the room becomes more visible with a light source.

Netto looks around and sees that ports seem to be transportation devices. All of the pads were labeled a different letter, A, B, C, and D. The A port was an aqua green color, the B port had a red tinge, the C port was bright yellow, and the D one was a bright purple. “It is, this is the Ancient Relic!”

“Really?”

“This must be a major breakthrough!” Draga beamed, “Oh, if Arline was here. She would be jumping for joy about this.”

“Okay, so how do we activate it?” R.C. asked.

Aeon and Isla examine the ports, trying to find a way to reactivate them.

“Is there an on switch?” Aeon asked as he kneeled and tried to look at the bottom of ‘A’ port. He tries to lift it but it to no avail. “*grunts* It won’t budge, it’s like glued to the bottom.”

“Maybe if we step on them, it could activate?” Isla steps onto the C port but nothing happens. “Nope, a dead end.”

“Aeon, you should probably stop that,” Draga cautioned. “If you try to do that then it could damage it even more and not activate again.”

“You serious?” Aeon stops his attempts and stands up. Isla gets off ‘C’ port. Both of them rejoin the group.

“Well, there is a way!” Natsu exclaimed, “Netto, do you still have the book with you? Turn to page 451.”

Netto was confused but did as Natsu instructed. He goes to the exact page and reads the following entry, “There are places in which Draco could manifest in the real world but only temporarily. The Ancient Relic is one of them.”

“Wait, are you saying that Draco can come here?” R.C. grasped, “In the flesh?”

“It’s worth a try,” Draga asked. “Netto, could you call Draco here? We need to talk to him.”

Netto was hesitant, would this work? How would the others feel about seeing a dark shape-shifting entry? However, his thoughts were put at ease as their actions dictated that they would not mind seeing Draco. In fact, they would be excited to see him face-to-face. Netto nods as he gently presses his vest collar and a red glow starts to illuminate from his vest collar and a red glow starts to illuminate from his hidden choker. Draco then appears in front of the whole group.

“Whoa! Is that Draco?”

“It is, I can’t believe it?”

“To think I would see a God-like entity appear before me in person,” Bulleta commented. “I thought it would be impossible in my lifetime.”

“Huh, Draco looks a lot like Netto.”

“That’s normal,” Draga explained. “Draco usually will take a form that resembles his current vessel. Since Netto is the new Aaron, his appearance is akin to Netto’s.”

“Nice to meet you all,” Draco greeted. A glint of amusement appeared from his ruby pupils.

“This is what Draco truly is?” Frost commented, “I thought he would be more fearsome and imitating. Not so down to earth and relaxed.”

“Hey, I’ve been watching you mortals amongst the four worlds with my mother and sister for thousands of millennials,” Draco argued. “I think the time has made me mature a bit.”

“I wouldn’t be so sure,” Draga doubted. “In fact, from the records I’ve come across. You had a rebellion phase and did take out your anger by causing some conflicts using your previous vessels.”

Draco was suddenly flustered from Draga’s sudden burst of knowledge of his past dealings. ‘Damn, I thought those were burned away or something.’

“Draco is this true? Did you cause wars before?”

“Okay, maybe I did but I did help resolve those wars I created and help restore the damage,” Draco admitted. “But Purity wasn’t innocent either, in fact, she also started wars as well with her vessels!”

“Interesting, so both Draco and Purity have caused war in the past,” R.C. commented.

“Netto, you don’t need to worry about that; it was all in the past,” Draco assured. “I was young and stupid alright!”

“I believe you,” Netto replied. “We make mistakes but we can learn and grow from them. Onee-san told me that it’s okay to mess up.”

“Onee-san?”

“It means big or older sister in Japanese,” R.C. explained. “The term is given to an older female sibling or a young woman who is seen as an older sisterly figure. I think this term is more formal or something?”

“Ah, yes, Sapphire, the one from your dreams!” Draco beamed.

“D-d-draco!” Netto protested.

“Wait, Sapphire, the girl from your dreams? Damn, Netto did you make up a girl to cope with your new environment or something? Because I don’t think that’s healthy at your age,” Aeon commented.

“No, Sapphire is definitely real,” Draco confirmed. “She is a resident of Netto’s old home world.”

“Wait, what? I thought Draco could only have one vessel at a time?” Ruby asked, “At least, that’s what I assume.”

“No, Draco and Purity can have multiple vessels at a time,” Natsu answered. “I’ve looked through the records and it seems that there have been cases that the two dragons can have more than one vessel.”

“But why?” Isla asked, “Isn’t one enough?”

“It’s a failsafe,” Draco explained. “There are times that the vessel I chose could not handle all of my power, so I chose a second or third to share the burden. However, if the first vessel is unable to perform his/her duties mostly due to mental health reasons, I will choose to give the main vessel status to the remaining vessel.”

“Wait, so you’re saying if Netto is incapacitated for any reason then Sapphire will take his place and fulfil his duties in his stead?” Draga guessed.

“Correct, if I chose more than one vessel at any given time then the first vessel will always be the most powerful. Any additional vessels will be weaker unless the first one is unable to fulfill his/her duties.” Draco explained, “In this instance, Netto is currently unable to use all of my power due to the condition of his body even with the limiter.”

“Wait, what? So if I try to use all of your power even with the limiter, I could go insane?” Netto grasped. “But I’m not sick! At least, I hope not.”

“Netto, currently your mental state is pretty anxious,” Draco informed. “I’m not sure why but I think it developed after completing your Process of Discovery Trial.”

“Wait, are you saying that Netto is developing an anxiety disorder?”

Netto paled after Isla’s guessed diagnosis. Him having a disorder? But that’s not right. He never had it before? How could he have it now? Netto started to hyperventilate and sweat profusely. His vision started to get blurry and his ears were ringing.

“Netto?”

“Hey, are you okay?”

“Shit, I think Netto’s having another panic attack!” Aeon blurted.

“What?”

“Netto had his first one when we were in the Mirror Labyrinth,” Isla explained “We had to stay behind to alleviate it otherwise he could’ve fainted.”

“Netto, calm down!” Ruby cried, “You’re not in danger! We’re just here to solve the Ancient Relic problem!”

However, in Netto’s perspective, he could barely hear the voices clearly.

“Netto...try to…” 

“…help…should we?”

“…about faint…try to…”

“…is…could…”

Netto could not handle the stress; he closed his eyes and fainted.

- Netto’s Dreamscape -

“Netto?”

Netto wakes up in his dream realm in utter shock. “What happened?”

“You fainted, Netto,” Draco replied. “You were overwhelmed by your panic attack.” Draco suddenly appears in front of the two. Which startled Sapphire for a bit.

“Oh no…”

“Netto, listen to me. It is alright, we can’t control when we get our panic attacks,” Sapphire assured.

“Oh, I forgot, Sapphire this is Draco! Draco this is Sapphire,” Netto deflected.

“You look different…”

“Wait, you met him before?”

“Hard to tell, when I first came to this dreamscape, he looked different. Like an amorphous shadow.” Sapphire explained, “At least now, you have a form I can understand.”

“Likewise, I’m sorry if our first encounter unnerved you,” Draco apologized. The two shake hands for a bit before letting go and continuing the conversation. “As you know before Netto fainted, we managed to find an Ancient Relic. An area that is used to cross dimensions.”

“So, it’s possible to dimension hop?” Sapphire asked, “I’ve heard that the existence of other worlds was possible due to the existence of Beyondard.”

“Yes, Beyondard,” Draco replied. “However, that world hasn’t fully recovered from the Cyber Beast incident.”

“What, why?” Netto asked. “Is Trill* and Iris okay?”

“Yes, the ones in control of that war is a mysterious organization called Nix.” Draco explained, “Apparently, they may be the ones responsible for Purity’s capture.”

“Who’s Purity?”

“She’s my sister,” Draco explained. “Purity and I are gods. We have been watching four worlds ever since their creation.”

“Wait, gods?”

“I know it’s weird,” Netto commented. “To think there were actually Gods watching over us.”

“So, is it true, Draco? Is Sapphire the other vessel?”

“You see Sapphire, I can choose multiple vessels if the one I chose cannot fully handle the power I possess.” Draco explained, “So you were chosen to ease the burden.”

“Wait, what? But why me? Why was I chosen?”

“You see Sapphire, you seem like a very interesting choice,” Draco reasoned. “If Netto refused my offer, you would be my second option.”

“But why me?” Sapphire asked, “I mean I’m just an ordinary girl trying to find my place in the world. I’m painfully average, I’m not attending college or have a job yet.”

“You may think that but I see great potential in you, Sapphire,” Draco answered. “If I give you this power, then you will have a goal, a purpose in life.”

“A purpose?” Sapphire repeated, “It would be nice to have one so I don’t have to wonder what to do next. I’m not sure if it is an honor to be noticed by a God.”

“It is,” Draco responded.

“So, you said that there are four worlds that you’re overseeing?” Sapphire asked, “And my home and Netto’s current home are two of them?”

“Yes,” Draco replied, “You see the four worlds are labeled, A, B, C, and D. All of them share one common variable, P.E.T. and NetNavi technology.”

“That’s the common trait?”

“Yes, each world seems to share the same technology. The only difference is how advanced their technology is.” Draco explained. “Universe A – Advance, PET, and NetNavi technology seem to growing but they are not equals. NetNavis are still considered tools.” Netto felt ashamed when Draco described how the relationship between Humans and Navis but it was the harsh truth. A lot of people still view NetNavis as tools rather than companions. “Universe B – Beginnings, PET, and NetNavi are just starting to develop. The reason why it is way behind is that to world is focused on magic rather than technology. Ironically, the presence of magic has made technology advance way faster than others. It’s probably on the same level as Universe C. The third dimension is named Community, where Humans and NetNavis are in harmony. There are rarely any conflicts and is very peaceful. Finally, Universe D is Destruction. Where Humans and NetNavis fighter eight each other or together.”

“That’s pretty detailed, so Universe D is the only one with conflict and the others are peaceful?”

“Yes, I believe Nix is trying to utilize Purity’s power to take resources from other worlds.” Draco explained, “However, here’s the worst part. I believe Purity and her new vessel are in that world.”

“If that’s the case then how do we save them?” Netto asked, “We still need to go back and reactive the Ancient Relic?”

“Well, that is going to be difficult,” Draco answered. “Before you fainted from your panic attack, I was about to explain how to reactive the Ancient Relic. Since the Ancient Relic is only used by the Aarons and Zevas if the area is too badly damaged or inactive for various amounts of times then both the Aaron and Zeva need to be present to restore it.”

“Wait, then if the Zeva is not here then we can’t use it?” Netto grasped.

“Unfortunately, yes,” Draco replied. “However, don’t lose hope, you still have that portal that will appear every 1,000 years. It will appear on this year’s summer solstice.”

“But if that’s true then where is the Ancient Relic of my home dimension?” Sapphire asked.

“Do not worry, I think I may know where it is located.” Draco asked, “I’ll try to rely on the directions and it is up to you to find it.”

“But wait, I thought you need a Portal Key to activate it if you’re an Aaron or Zeva?”

“That is true, but I believe that the Portal Key has not been located yet,” Draco guessed.

“But how do I actually find it, I don’t have a tracker.”

“Don’t worry about that,” Draco assured. “I’ll give you, your very own limiter. It will also count as a way to track both the Portal Keys and the Ancient Relic’s location.” Draco then conjures up a red diamond necklace with batwings and curved horns and gives it to Sapphire. “I trust that you will find it.”

Sapphire slowly brushes her fingertips over the beauty and intricate details of her newly required necklace. “Thank you…I’ll try my best.”

“Wait, does my choker also do that?”

“Yes, of course,” Draco replied. “All the limiters I give to my vessels have that ability. Anyway, Netto, you must go back. Your friends are waiting.”

Netto agrees and he closes his eyes to concentrate on getting back. He took a deep breath and the sounds of the pool underneath began to fade away.

The brunette blinks as he wakes up to see the ceiling of the Ancient Relic. He felt a soft pillow e below his head and was covered by a cotton blanket. He turns to his right and sees the others waiting anxiously for him to wake up.

“Guys…” Netto muttered.

“Netto?”

“Hey, man are you okay?”

“You just pass out…”

Draga knelt beside Netto and checked to see if he had any injuries.

“What happened?” Netto asked.

“We had to lay you down with a pillow and blanket that Ruby and Isla brought from the car.” Frost replied, “We were so worried after you fainted.”

Netto sat up and clutched the blanket that fell on his lap. “I hate feeling helpless…” Netto muttered. “I mean I got my powers but now as a cost, I have this stupid anxiety disorder.”

“So what if you have anxiety, Netto; you’re still a capable fighter!” Isla argued.

“Yeah, Netto! Isla and I saw what you did during the Trial,” Aeon encouraged. “Don’t let your crippling anxiety get in the way of your potential.”

“Guys…” Netto was touched by how caring his new friends were about his well-being. Would his parents and his old friends do the same thing to him?

“Anyway, now that you’re awake, did you tell Draco anything about how to activate the portals again?” Draga asked, “He disappeared after you fainted.”

“Oh, for the portal reactivation it’s kind of hard to do,” Netto replied. “We need both the Aaron and Zeva to repair it to reactive the portals.”

“Wait what? But the Zeva hasn’t been found yet,” Ruby commented. “At least, not that I know of.”

“It doesn’t have to be in our world,” Draga replied. “It can be in the other three worlds.”

“So, it’s like a needle in a haystack…” Isla commented.

“Unfortunately yes,” Netto replied. “Since we are connected to three other Universes then the Zeva could be in either Universe A, my old home, C, or D. We have no other choice; we need to use that portal once the Summer Solstice hits.”

After the return from the Ancient Relic, Frost had dropped everyone in front of their homes before sunset. “We’ve been gone for a long time, huh?” Angel commented.

“Yeah…” Draga added.

“Hey, Netto are you okay?”

“Yeah, I’m fine…” Netto muttered, “I just need some space. I’ll see you at dinnertime.”

- Draga’s Room -

“So Draga, what do we do?” Angel asked. “I mean we have suspicions that Netto could have an anxiety disorder, but we’re not therapists. So should we take him to get a proper diagnosis?”

“Yes, but the problem is that Netto has to do it willingly,” Draga explained. “We just can’t force him to take a psychological evaluation.”

“Yeah, but if we don’t do it now, it could affect us severely down the line,” Angel insisted. “I know Netto could be stubborn but if we don’t treat it right now, if he was in a highly stressful situation then he could accidently jeopardize his safety and others.”

“I’m well aware of that, we just need to slowly persuade him that getting proper treatment will be beneficial for him.” Draga reasoned, “But how do we do it? How can we convince him that getting early treatment is good for him?”

“We could just ask him,” Angel suggested. “Kindly, might I add?”

“It could work…” Draga muttered, “I just hope Netto understands.”

Dinner time arrived and the group was gathered at the kitchen table to eat pizza and fries. Everyone was quietly eating their food but Draga noticed Netto was continuously tapping his left foot for the past few minutes while slowly biting down his slice. ‘His appetite has gotten smaller.’ Draga presses her lips for a bit before she brings up the discussion of treatment. “Netto, can we talk about this?”

“What about?”

“About your supposed anxiety disorder,” Draga answered. “In fact, there are many ways to treat it.”

Netto paused for a while, he has been having panic attacks lately after completing the Process of Discovery Trial. “There is? If that’s the case, then I guess I can try it. Any treatment is better than none.”

“I’m glad that you’re warming up to getting your diagnosis and getting treatment for it,” Dr. Cerys praised. “There is nothing shameful about treating your constant anxiety.”

“I guess, but I have no idea how to get properly diagnosed,” Netto pondered. “Much less, about proper treatment for my mental illness.”

“You mean, they don’t teach you about mental illness and their various treatments back in your world?” Angel asked.

“I mean we do, but I live in Japan and well, we didn’t have a great history of treating people with mentally ill people,” Netto answered. “Heck, I didn’t know it was that bad. When we see someone that was off, we usually avoid them since we’re not very confrontational. Especially those that we were close to. I believe someone who is suffering from schizophrenia usually has it worse. However, I think it got better before I left. Some facilities do help treat mentally ill people though I’m not too sure since I didn’t pay that much attention to that stuff anyway.”

“So you’re saying that back home, mentally ill people were treated like crap and are starting to get better treatment in recent years?” Angel guessed, “So, it’s not that different from our world’s history of dealing with people suffering from mental illness. However, the mentally ill are getting the help they need since our magic system has a user’s mental well-being as a factor.”

“Netto, I’ll be scheduling an appointment with a child psychiatrist, he’s a friend of mine,” Dr. Cerys informed. “He’ll help you give you a proper diagnosis and the appropriate treatment associated with it.”

“Really, thank you! Wait, what’s his name?” Netto asked, “I’m curious about what he looks like.”

“His name is Aeson Raphael,” Dr. Cerys replied. “He specializes in treating children with mental illness particularly those that develop them after taking their Process of Discovery Trials. He may be wearing his formal white coat, black jeans, and dress shoes but he has short black hair, blue eyes, and tanned skin. You can’t miss them.”

“Okay, well, Draga wants to tell you something.”

“Netto!” Draga protested. “What I mean is that, remember that place that Arline discovered a few years ago? Well, it’s the Ancient Relic, you know the one from the Legend?”

“Are you serious?! Then Draga do you know what this means? We can Dimensional Travel, oh just think of all the other worlds we can travel and connect with!” Her eyes seem to sparkle at the endless possibilities.

“You see, auntie, that’s the problem,” Draga doubted. “We can’t activate it because it’s been so long since its last activation. However, this isn’t the only way. You see, Netto is the new Aaron and he has been informed by Draco that a portal is opening on June 22^nd. You know the one that appears every 1,000 years.”

“Yes, that is true but I need to make some important calls,” Dr. Cerys informed. “I have to go.”

After dinner, Angel was washing the dishes while Netto and Draga discussed on what to do next. “Alright, tomorrow, we gather the gang and go report to Arline first thing.”

“All right,” Netto agreed. “We’ll go straight to the Ancients Museum first thing in the morning!”

- Ancients History Museum -

After the trio finished eating their breakfast, they gathered Ruby, Frost, R.C., Bulleta, Aeon, Isla, Natsu, and R.C. at the museum.

“So, we’re just going to visit the curator and go from there?” Isla asked.

“Yup, we’re going to reveal to Arline the true identity of the place that we went to yesterday,” Draga added. “Then we’ll focus on training on unlocking and harnessing Netto’s powers.”

“I can’t wait!” Netto beamed.

As the huge group headed inside the museum, two people were overlooking the entire group. It was Stacy and Henshin. “Ugh, Stacy, why are we here?”

“Isn’t it obvious, spy on them.”

“Yeah but why?” Henshin asked, “It’s none of our business.”

“It’s just ever since Netto came here, Bulleta has been spending a lot of time with him. Especially when training him on how to utilize his weapons and his powers despite not having any of her own.” Stacy confessed, “We usually are attached to the hip so I don’t know why she seems to spend a lot of time training him. Just what does she see in him?”

“Whoa, calm down, Stacy; you’re blowing this way out of proportion,” Henshin cautioned. “I mean sure, Frost is my friend but it’s none of my business what he does during his free time.”

“But still, I am curious,” Stacy reasoned. “After she goes on a road trip with Draga and the others, she seems to be in deep thought about something. I asked on what was on her mind and she said something about Aaron’s return.”

“The Aaron? What are you talking about? We haven’t seen an Aaron in over 1,000 years.”

“Well, I need to make sure,” Stacy noted. “If what I think is true, Netto could be the new Aaron.”

“Are you serious? This I have to see,” Henshin exulted. He was now invested in this new mystery that Netto had hidden from the rest of the neighborhood kids.

A while later, Netto explained everything to both Stacy and Henshin about him being the Aaron and learning more about the Legend surrounding his role as Draco’s vessel. Additionally, he mentioned that the Zeva could be in another world and is possibly used against his/her will to serve for an organization called Nix.

“That’s terrible,” Stacy commented.

“So the other vessel is being used by this Nix group for this own selfish desires?”

“This isn’t the first time an Aaron and/or Zeva were being experimented on to create manmade soldiers,” Draga noted. “We have records that date back to 2,000 years ago. It was when the first cases of Magic Users started popping up.”

“So, we’re going to train Netto in order to control his powers and protect himself from getting captured,” Bulleta explained. “I apologize that I haven’t spent as much time as before Stacy.”

“No, I was wrong, Bulleta,” Stacy apologized. “I was too selfish and didn’t see that you were training the new Aaron.”

“I’m glad that you see that way,” Bulleta smiled.

“Now that everything is settled, shall we get started on Netto’s training?”

- South Area [Tranquil Park] -

“Alright, Netto, let’s begin your training session!”

Netto nodded as he tugged on his vest collar. He can feel the ebbs of Draco’s Power from his choker limiter. He felt both nervous and excited. He gets to show his form to his friends for the first time.

“Draco Form, Activate!” He cried. A red glow starts to form around his neck and slowly envelopes his whole body. A pair of black wings sprout from his back and fully covers Netto. His bandana was replaced with a helmet that let him keep his current hairstyle. Clothes changed into a red vest over a black tee-shirt combo, black jeans with red highlights, black gloves with red tips and white rings and red gems, and knee-length red and black boots with wings on the ankles and the same gems. Once the transformation was complete, the wings flapped away to reveal his Draco Form. Netto’s eyes open to reveal his reddish-brown eyes instead of his warm, dark brown.

“Is that?”

“So cool!”

“To see the Draco Form up close is indescribable.”

Netto blushed at everyone commenting in awe at his new form. ‘This is embarrassing but cool.’

“Alright, I’m firing up the Mecha-Bots,” Draga announced. She activates two robots and they charge at Netto.

“Okay, how does this form work?” Netto asked. He focuses on his open right hand and a red sword with black handle suddenly appears. Its appearance reminds him of the Z-Saber battle chip with the omega symbol on it. “Cool, I think I made a new weapon!” He then swung it at the robots they were instantly destroyed with one slash.

“Who, Netto quickly destroyed those robots with one swing!”

Draga types a few commands on the machine, “Activate the Bullet Pelters.”

Two robots were online and started firing bullets at Netto. He quickly used his arms to shield himself and a black shield shaped like a diamond adorned with red diamonds and yellow highlights appears in front of him. It acted like a barrier as it blocked all the bullets from the robots. “So cool,” Netto commented. During the onslaught of bullets pelting the shield, Netto puts both of his arms in front of him and two guns appear in his hands. “Whoa, I made two new weapons! This keeps getting better and better.” He then fires from both pistols and glowing red balls shot out and quickly destroys the Bullet Pelters.

“That is so cool! Hey, Netto, let me help you!” Ruby offered. “I want to see if there is anything new if you fight with a partner!”

“Hey Ruby, wait!”

“Ruby, are you crazy? You’re going to get yourself hurt!”

“What is she doing? Seriously?” Bulleta commented.

Ruby was already on the battlefield beside Netto. “Come on, Netto. I think we should combine our attacks!”

“Sure, why not,” Netto beamed. “It could unlock more powers!”

“That’s the spirit!”

Ruby and Netto clang their weapons together. To their surprise, Netto’s sword was covered in flames. “Well, that’s new. Let’s try it out!” Netto happily swings his newly acquired power at the next batch of Mecha-Bots that Draga sent. It left burn marks on their bodies before being destroyed.

“Interesting, it seems Netto can combine the effects of his weapons with the aid of his partner depending on the type.” Stacy examined, “Since Ruby is fire, Netto’s weapon turns into the fire type.”

“That’s pretty cool!” Henshin commented. “What other abilities can Netto unlock?”

“Well, since Netto is the vessel of the Dark Dragon then he could manipulate shadows,” Draga answered.

“Really, I thought only Dark Type users can use that ability?” Aeon asked. “To think that the Aaron can use abilities that are exclusive to the other types.”

“Well, both the Aaron and Zeva are progenitors of the modern types,” Draga reasoned. “It isn’t hard to see those using moves that are variants.”

“You mean both the Aaron and Zeva are considered the first types that predate even the Dark and Light Type Users?” Frost summarized.

“Yes, apparently the Dark and Light Type are the oldest descendants of the Aaron and Zeva’s powers.” Natsu asked, “I’ve read about it from various books when researching magic types for an assignment.”

“Well, I am starting to get a better grasp of my powers,” Netto smiled. “But I feel a bit tired.”

“That’s normal,” Draga replied. “Aarons and Zevas that are just starting out, will get exhausted if they overuse their powers.”

“Just like Cross Fusion,” Netto muttered.

“Well, we should finish the training?” Ruby asked, “I mean if Netto tries to push it, he may collapse from overexertion. Not a good experience for a beginner vessel.”

“Alright, then. Disperse!” Netto returns to his normal form and attire. He then turns to R.C. “Hey R.C., remember when you asked me to hang out after the whole Draco and Aaron ordeal? Well, I don’t mind hanging out tomorrow.”

“That’s really considerable of you,” R.C. commented. “We’ll meet up Friday morning. If you’re not there, I’m throwing rocks at your room’s window.”

“Hehe, sure I’ll keep that in mind.”

- Portal Dimension Room -

After the training session, Netto was back in Draga’s room and going down the stairs towards the hidden room. “So, Draga-chan why are we going back to Flower Paradise?”

“Netto, I think you should see the Universal Pool again,” Draga insisted. “I was looking at it yesterday and saw something that you must see.”

“Okay, okay, let’s go,” Netto sighed. He was confused about why the brunette was so insistent on going back to the All-Seeing Temple. His first time was a very awful experience and was understandably anxious about what he saw on his second try. The duo activates the portal and enters Flower Paradise Island.

- Flower Paradise Island [All-Seekers Temple] -

Netto and Draga were back in the temple and Netto took a deep breath as he stood in front of the pool. He concentrates on his aura. His palms glows for a bit and the pool ripples to reveal a vision of his family and friends celebrating his birthday on his gravesite by leaving flowers in front of it.

Draga stands beside him as she also sees the vision. “This is the vision I saw yesterday. Even though you were gone, they still care for you very deeply,” Draga explained. “In fact, it seems to be that some of the gifts say Happy Birthday. Apparently, it is a tradition to leave gifts like flowers on your gravesite.”

Netto felt like crying, seeing his loved ones still mourning his absence. He thought he wasn’t needed anymore, but in actuality, he is still loved and valued. He was glad that he was still remembered but an inner conflict arose. Should he stay here where he has a support system that understands his inner struggles and newly required powers? Or go back to his old life where his family and friends would be waiting for him with the same love and support? He realized that this was harder to choose than he thought. For now, he was eternally grateful to Draga for showing him that his family and friends still love and miss him.

“Thanks, Draga, I needed that,” Netto thanked with a small smile.

- East Area [Aurelius Park] -

Netto was surprised that he woke up really early. However there was a reason for that, he was going to meet up with R.C. at a park in East Area. He follows the directions on a map that details where the location is. Once he arrived, it looked like any other normal park. Nothing special about its scenery. He looks around and sees R.C.’s dark blue hair peeking from behind some trees.

“Hey, R.C.!” Netto cried. He runs to where R.C. is setting up a picnic.

“Netto? You did come!” R.C. commented. A big blue checkered blanket was already laid out with a wooden picnic basket opened. The dishes that were put out and displayed were sandwiches and some tea. “You can choose any sandwich to eat.”

“Thanks,” Netto thanked. He sits across from R.C. and grabs one sandwich from the various plates. He takes a bite and swallows it. “Peanut butter and honey.” He then starts chatting with R.C. “So, what do you want to talk about?”

“I was wondering if it’s possible to become a NetNavi.” R.C. pondered. Netto was confused, so R.C. expanded on her odd question. “You did mention in passing that I do resemble your Navi. So what if we were NetNavis, ourselves.”

“Well, in my world, Cross Fusion is the closest we come to being a NetNavi. But we’re borrowing the form instead of becoming a brand new Navi,” Netto explained. “Although it would be cool if we were real NetNavis. I can explore the Internet as much as I want plus the virus busting all day.”

“What about Battle Chips? If we become Navis then how would we use them?”

“Good point, Solo NetNavis can’t use them while Navis with operators can,” Netto noted. “Maybe Papa could create a program in which Solo Navi can use Battle Chip data.”

“Anyway, what type would you be?” R.C. asked.

“Elec,” Netto replied. “So, it could match my Electric Type. Though I would be weak to the Wood type. How about you?”

“Normal Type.”

“So Null?”

“Yes, that way I take regular damage from all kinds of different attacks of various types like Fire, Aqua, Elect, etc,” R.C. replied. “I know it’s a boring type to pick but the advantage is I would not get double damage from a type I’m weak to.”

“Funny, Rockman in his regular form is a Null type,” Netto commented. “So, R.C., why did you choose this park?”

“Wait for a minute, the sun is rising,” R.C. instructed. The two look towards the horizon in which the sun slowly rises from the horizon. Netto was amazed as the park slowly began to shine a golden light under the sun’s rays. Everything seems to sparkle under the sunlight. Netto thought the whole park would turn to gold.

“This is why, I would come every morning before sunrise to see the beautiful horizon,” R.C. replied. “It’s a beautiful scene, although it is fleeting, it’s something you cannot forget.”

“Just like my time with my family and friends…” Netto muttered, “Thanks R.C., I think some time to enjoy the scenery gave me some time to reflect.”

“No, problem, Netto,” R.C. smiled.

- Cerys Residence -

After Netto comes back from his hangout with R.C., Draga is reading a magazine on the couch. She heard the front door open and the bandana brunette entered the living room. “Oh, Netto, you’re back! How was your hangout with her?”

“It was good, R.C. showed me the sunrise at Aurelius Park,” Netto answered. “It was really beautiful, it was hard to explain.”

“Aurelius Park is known for having the best view of the sunrise,” Draga explained. “If you go there just before the sun rises above the horizon, the park looks like it was covered in gold. However, if you are there during sunset then it is just as beautiful.”

“Really, then we should gather the group and hang out there sometime.” Netto beamed, “We could all have a group picnic together.”

“Hey, Netto, when is your birthday?”

“Um, June 10^th, why?”

“Oh, it’s nothing just curious,” Draga replied. Netto was confused about why she would ask something minor but shrugged it off and continued with his day as normal.

A few weeks have passed and during that time, Netto has slowly mastered both his electric powers and his Draco Form powers. He had fun experimenting and unlocking new moves to add to his arsenal. Time seems to fly by as it was now June, his birth month. Around the end of this month, he will begin on his interdimensional journey to save Purity and her vessel. However, his decision on where to permanently stay in Universe A or B hasn’t been resolved yet.

He decides to follow Sapphire’s advice and decide to let this huge decision be put aside for now. He has a duty that he must fulfill, with his new friends by his side. Would his old friends and family still want him if all of this is over?

Regardless, settling into his new home has allowed him to expand his horizons. He felt very comfortable and close to the locals. Today was June 9^th, and tomorrow was his birthday. Now, he hasn’t told anyone besides Draga about his birthday and has settled on drawing a homemade Birthday Card.

- Netto’s Room -

Netto was sketching on a folded piece of white paper that was 8 inches long and 11 and a half inches wide. Both the front and black flaps were scribbled with various doodles of balloons and confetti. The right flap had written text saying Happy Birthday.

Knock! Knock! “Hey Netto, can I come in?” Angel asked.

“Sure, you can come in!” Netto replied.

The blonde girl enters the room and sees Netto scribbling all over the folded paper. “Uh, Netto what are you doing?”

“Making myself a birthday card,” Netto smiled. “My birthday is tomorrow.”

“Oh yeah, Draga did mention that,” Angel recalled. “Although, it is kind of lime to be giving yourself a birthday card. Well, I’ll leave now, just checking on you.”

“Uh, okay… Thanks?” Netto was confused but shrugged it off and continued to sketch on his homemade celebratory card.

Angel closes the bedroom behind her and Draga is suddenly in front of her. “Yikes, Draga, you scared me!”

“Sorry, Angel,” Draga apologized, “but I need your help with something.”

“Sure, what is it?”

“Well, tomorrow is Netto’s birthday, so we should…”

The next day, Netto wakes up from his bed after a fitful sleep and gets ready for the day. However, when he goes downstairs the smell of waffles permeates the air. He goes to the kitchen and notices that Draga and Angel already cooked breakfast and are set on the table. The golden brown waffles were topped with berries and powdered sugar. It was very appealing along with its pleasant smell. Glass of orange juice compliment the delicious breakfast.

“What is all this?”

“Happy Birthday, Netto!”

“We thought we would give you a nice breakfast as a celebration,” Angel replied.

“Thanks,” Netto happily sits down and eats his birthday breakfast.

“Hey, Netto are going to the arcade today?” Draga asked, “Angel and I are going to be doing something important.”

“Now that you mention it, I was thinking about heading there today,” Netto replied. “So, call me when you’re done! Don’t worry about me, I already memorized the path to the arcade.” He gets up after finishing his breakfast and goes to the living room to pick up an old black burner phone. Before Draga got her own cellphone, she would use this disposable cellular device instead. The reason it was still around was just in case of emergencies. Back in his old home, burner phones were rarely used as most modern NetNavis are incompatible with entering one, but they can still access the data if the SIM card is connected to the computer. Because of the compatibility issues, criminals don’t use them as frequently. He pockets it in his vest before heading out the door.

- East Area [Breeze Orchid Arcade] -

“Okay, what game should I play today?” Netto looked around and was very eager to play. There were so many arcade games for him to try. He has been before but he hasn’t gotten a chance to try every game and arcade machine.

“Netto!” Henshin called.

“Oh, Henshin-kun, Felica-chan!”

“Hmm? Where are Ruby-chan, Frost-kun, and R.C.-chan?”

“Oh, they were busy with something else,” Felica answered. “So Henshin and I decide to hang out with you until they’re done.”

“And that something is?”

“It’s a secret!” Felica beamed, “No spoilers, so what game should we play first?”

“How about Under Sea Explorers?” Netto suggested, “I just can’t pass the last stage.”

“I’ll help you,” Henshin offered. “I’ve beaten it with Frost, so I know how to pass it and defeat the final boss.”

“No way, the final boss? I’ve heard it’s one of the hardest bosses to beat in the game.”

“Not if you brute force it and have a lot of tokens.”

For the first couple of hours, Netto, Henshin, and Felica were playing together on various gaming machines and arcades. However, there was one machine they had avoided altogether. The Net Battling Machine is only used by those with NetNavis. For Henshin and Felica, it was a frivolous machine since they don’t own personal Internet Navigators. For Netto, it was a painful reminder of home. How he would beat Dekao and Gutsman at various Net Battles with Rockman, and spar endless hours with Enzan and Blues.

Sunset was starting to creep up as 8 P.M. hit. The trio was outside of the mall after playing so many hours at the game machines, especially the arcade cabinets. “*yawn* I’m beat, who knew spending a lot of time at the cabinets would be very exhausting,” Henshin commented.

“Yeah, I can’t believe we managed to beat the final boss at the Under Sea Explorers game!” Netto beamed, “It was so much fun; I was at the edge of my seat when firing the weapon.”

Felica notices the sunset as the sky becomes a beautiful gradient of pink, orange, and yellow. “It’s getting late so should we -”

Beep! Beep! “Oh, my phone!” Netto takes out the burner phone and sees a message from Draga.

Hey Netto, we’re done, so meet us back at Auntie’s house!

“Good news, guys, I got a message from Draga-chan!” Netto beamed, “Well, it is close to dinner time, so maybe it’s something important and special.”

“Oh, it’s special alright,” Felica muttered.

- West Area [Cerys Residence] -

Henshin and Felica accompanied Netto on the stroll back to Dr. Cerys’s Beach House. Draga and Angel were waiting for them on the front porch.

“Netto, how was your day at the arcade?”

“It was great, Draga-chan!” Netto beamed, “I had a great time with Henshin and Felica as well.” The two smiled sheepishly after his mention.

“Anyway, Netto, we have something to show you,” Angel announced. “Follow me!”

“Where are we going?”

“Our hangout spot!” Angel replied, “We bring the neighborhood kids towards a place where everyone can have fun and do other stuff.”

As they travel to the outskirts of Beach Flora Town, he notices that they go past the abandoned train station. The same one that Netto came out of. He stopped and noticed the decrepit station. “Wait, why are we here?”

“Well, when Angel and I first met you, we were heading to our hangout spot.” Draga explained, “Pass the train station is a beach house where we would hang out with the other kids. They’re all waiting for you.”

“What for?”

- Paloma Beach -

As Netto continues to walk with the group, a clearing can be seen up ahead. It opens up to another beach that oversees the ocean.

“This is?”

“Paloma Beach,” Angel replied. “This is where we would hang out and look at the view.”

Netto notices a big beach house with palm trees, hibiscus bushes, and white beach chairs on the front porch. “What’s a beach house doing here?”

“That’s the Alista Beach House,” Henshin explained. “This is where all the neighborhood kids hang out.”

“Who built this?”

“It was a gift from another family friend when my parents were still alive,” Draga replied. “I would bring my friends and neighbors to play with that earned my trust.”

“Come on, let’s go inside!” Felica exulted, “Everyone is anticipating your arrival!”

- Alista Beach House -

When the group entered the beach house, Netto was confused about why the lights were out. Draga turns them on with the light switch and everyone, that the bandana boy has met, is at the party.

“SURPRISE, HAPPY BIRTHDAY NETTO!”

All of the people that Netto interacted with came to the party. Amongst the crowd were Ruby, Frost, R.C., Bulleta, Stacy, Aeon, Isla, Ciel, Aimi, Aile, and Natsu. Additional members include Briana, Bella, Savannah, Malosi, and Lani. The entire place was decorated with balloons, banners, and paper chains. On top of a white, vintage table were presents of various sizes and covered in different colored wrappers but what stood out to Netto was his homemade birthday card right in front of them.

“What is all this?” Netto was stunned by the display celebrating his 13^th birthday.

“Your birthday, duh! You think we wouldn’t celebrate our friend’s special day,” Ruby answered.

“We just want to make sure time here in Beach Flora is a happy one to remember by,” Frost added.

Netto was taken to another white table in which there was a birthday cake covered in blue frosting.

“Alright, Netto blow out the candles!” Isla instructed.

“Come on, Netto, blow out the candles on your cake,” Aeon beamed.

“Everyone…” Netto muttered. Even though his family and old friends are not with him anymore to celebrate his birthday, he has a new group of friends that will.

After a few hours had passed at the birthday party, night had already fallen and everyone was gathering around the flat-screen TV watching a movie. Some of the kids’ NetNavis were watching with them such as Radioman, Amar, and Crystalman.

Crystalman belongs to Savannah and by the looks of it was a recently activated one. His armor was made of red and blue crystals over his black bodysuit with white stripes. His eyes were a clear crystal blue.

After the movie ended, it was midnight everyone agreed to stay the night at the beach house, since it was too late to go back home. Luckily, Draga keeps a lot of sleeping bags for the guests to sleep in. Once the lights were out, Netto closed his eyes and went to sleep. His consciousness slowly drifted back to his dreamscape.

- Netto’s Dreamscape -

He found himself back in his peaceful domain, the glass dome, plant life, and the concealed pool. “Hello, Netto,” Sapphire greeted. “Welcome, back! So, how are you doing with your new life?”

“It was really great, my new friends actually threw a surprise birthday party for me!”

“I think it is great that you’re enjoying your new life,” Sapphire replied. “I’m sure your new friends are very kind people.”

“Yeah…”

“Are you still thinking about your old life, huh?”

“Yeah, it’s just this is my first birthday that I didn’t celebrate with my family and old friends,” Netto explained. “It just doesn’t feel the same without them.”

“It’s okay if you miss them,” Sapphire assured. “When I moved to Green Town, I also missed my old home and friends. However, if you make the effort to open your heart to new experiences in a brand new environment over time you can make it your new home. At first, you will refuse because you are grieving the loss of your old one. And that’s okay, take time to accept the loss. Then once you are ready, go and experience new things that you may never thought you would in your old home.”

“Really, I didn’t know…But wait, you weren’t born in Green Town?”

“Nope, I actually was born in a different city,” Sapphire replied. “It is located a few hours away from Osaka. If you do come back to your old dimension, I’ll show you the place.”

“I’m looking forward to that…”

Sapphire then steers the conversation back to Netto’s decision. “Netto, have you decided on which world you want to stay in?”

“Not yet, I think it would be better if I focus on the duty assigned by my contract,” Netto replied.

“Contract?”

“When I accepted Draco’s offer of being his vessel, the contract stated that I needed to rescue his sister and vessel!” Netto beamed, “Besides that would give me more time to think about which world to stay in.”

“Seems like you’re avoiding it though,” Sapphire muttered. “Ah, but wait even though your birthday is over, I want to give you something.” She fishes into her jacket pocket to grab something. When she finds it, she takes it out for Netto to see.

It was a diamond necklace with a grey chain. A big peridot diamond surrounded by four smaller diamonds in different colors (the top is red, the left is yellow, the right is blue, and the bottom is green) on top of a golden ring. “This looks beautiful, where did you get it?”

“My uncle gave it to me during one of his business trips, I wasn’t interested in it so I thought giving it to someone else would be okay.” Sapphire explained, “I didn’t want it to collect dust along with my other jewelry.”

“Thank you, Onee-san! I’ll treasure this forever!”

“I’m glad that you liked the birthday gift I gave you, Netto.”

“To be honest, I didn’t care what gift, I got as long as there is effort put into it,” Netto confessed.

“I’m glad you are happy with your present, Netto,” Sapphire replied. “So, I’ll be waiting for you to return to Universe A.”

The two bid farewell as the dreamscape begins to blur.

Chapter Text

It was common for Netto to be late for important events. Especially, the hangout in the arcade. At the time, she didn’t think much as it was common for Netto to be tardy. However, the true reason why Netto never came to meet up changed her life forever. There was a train explosion that happened at 3 P.M Netto was one of the passengers that was involved in the incident. The only things remaining were his bloody blue bandana and his destroyed Link PET.

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She along with Netto’s parents and friends were devastated about Netto’s disappearance during that fatal subway explosion. Weeks after the incident, their mental health declined as they grieved the loss of the brunette boy. Meiru took it the worse. She was the closest to Netto since they were childhood friends and neighbors since birth. How would their life continue without their hero of light? The one that had inspired hope to many?

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Yaito decides to lighten up the mood by striking up a conversation with Meiru. She babbles about not worrying about using identical backpacks and choosing on whatever bag they wish to choose when attending middle school. Meiru remained silent during the entire conversation as she was looking longingly at Netto’s vacant desk. Dust collected by the built-in computer was wiped clean. The Hikari family came by a few days after the bombing to remove any school supplies or future projects that Netto would never use again or need. After Meiru finished storing all of her belongings and got to her feet.

“Let’s go, Yaito-chan,” she muttered. “I’m sorry for keeping you here for so long.”

“No worries, I’ll accompany you,” Yaito assured. Meiru glances back at her shorter friend though her eyes were duller with a weak smile on her face.

Mariko-sensei apologized about Netto’s death and lamented that she may never see all of her students graduate together. To their surprise, Tohru wanted to join the group despite the fact he always attended a different class than them. Nevertheless, he was still part of Netto’s core friend group even though he was usually absent on their crazy adventures. However, Tohru didn’t seem too bothered as he was glad he wasn’t a victim of one of Yaito’s crazy schemes to go into space to fix one of her personal satellites.

As Mariko goes inside her car and leaves the parking lot, Meiru couldn’t help to wonder about what caused the train explosion that shook those close to the victims and their families. Things were going to be very different with Netto gone.

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Hikari Yuuichiro told Meiru two different theories. The first one was that the death was painless, but the second one was more gruesome and tragic. Netto died from his wounds from the explosion trying to find help deep into the tunnel system. She attempts to get some perspective in order to relieve her sorrow. It was nothing compared to the Hikari family. When was the last time, she saw his parents?

His father, Hikari-hakase’s appearance was messier in contrast to his normal, kempt appearance. He had been focusing single-mindedly on retrieving Rockman’s data. Roll was the one to muster the courage about the funeral. The doctor muttered that his wife was handling the preparations.

Yes, the funeral, was coming next week. She should be finding a black dress to wear; it wasn’t easy grieving the loss of a loved one.

A few days passed after meeting Hikari-hakase, she visited the Hikari Household while wearing her new black dress. The brown-haired woman was also wearing black clothes but there was hope and resolve in her eyes.

“Hikari-san?” she uttered.

The brown-haired woman turns around and gives the pink-haired girl, a reassuring smile. “Oh, Meiru-chan, how are you doing? Have you had anything to eat?”

Meiru shook her head, “No, I tried making miso soup but I accidentally cut my left knuckle.”

Hikari-san looks at the pink-haired girl’s bandaged left hand. “Oh dear, it is okay, I’m making breakfast myself, coincidently miso soup as well.” She was almost done prepping as she cut some green onions into small pieces. After she was done, Haruka got out a saucepan, puts it on the oven, and sets it to medium-high heat. She combines both the water and dashi granules* and waits until the liquid boils. Once it does, Haruka lowers the heat to medium and wishes in the miso paste, stir in the tofu cubes, and lastly add the green onions. After about 2 to 3 minutes, the soup was ready to serve. She scoped the soup and made two servings for both herself and Meiru.

After the traditional phase before eating a meal, the pink-haired girl quietly slurps her soup and compliments how savory and delicious it is.

“I’m surprised that you don’t eat Ameroupian breakfasts as often,” Hikari-san commented.

“I prefer Japanese ones,” Meiru answered. “I usually eat Ameroupian dishes when my parents are home.”

“I see…”

An awkward silence filled the room before Meiru picked up on the conversation. “I wish I could cook dishes as well as you.”

“You can, you have plenty of time to improve,” Hikari-san encouraged. “I didn’t do much in terms of cooking when I was your age.”

“I do really, I have all the time in the world…” Meiru begins to tear up and then the salty tears fall down her cheeks.

“Oh, sweetie, it’s okay to be upset,” Hikari-san assured.

“It’s not fair!” Meiru wailed as she sobbed on the brown-haired woman’s shoulder. Hikari-san soothed the pink-haired girl with comforting words.

“There are so many things that aren’t fair in the world. But we have to get through them, just the same.”

It took a while for Meiru to calm down as she was still lamenting Netto’s death. Once she settled down, she stayed beside Hikari-san. But the brunette woman was right, she has a lot to think about in terms of her future. However, her thoughts still linger on Netto. “I should have been better prepared for this.” She wipes the tears out of her eyes before continuing, “I mean, Netto put himself in danger so many times that he naively thought he could live through anything. His optimism was so him, you know.”

“Who were we to make him worry when he had so much to worry about? Even if we did show our concern, I know he would try to make us stop worrying about him,” Haruka added. She ruffles Meiru’s hair as she continues on her thoughts about her dead son, “I agreed with Netto accepting the Net Savior job but I never approved it. I don’t think any loving mother would.”

“But even if say no…”

“He would’ve done it all anyway, whether the police helped and we allowed it or not,” Haruka answered. “It was better for him not to get in trouble for it, and to be able to live a normal life outside of it.” It meant nothing to wondering when his luck would run out.

“It really couldn’t gone any other way…”

“No, it couldn’t have,” Haruka added.

Roll was silent during the entire meal and conversation; she understood why Meiru-chan was very upset. She lost her closest friend. She hoped that Rockman was okay and not gone as well.

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Rockman woke up to see his creator’s disheveled appearance on a screen. He was worried about the doctor’s health but Hikari-hakase assured him that he was fine if the blue Navi was okay as well.

His memory seems to be scrambled in the explosion. The memories of Netto cooking his first cake mixed with the recollections of his operator suffering in the explosion. Though was it a trick of his eyes that Netto was engulfed in darkness before the final bomb detonated?

At first, he wanted to remove any memories of Netto so he could forget that traumatic event. But he withdrew it as it was a terrible idea since Netto was his first and closest friend. In the days leading to the funeral, Dr. Hikari noted that it was a miracle that the blue NetNavi was functioning properly. He refused to touch them as one single wrong letter could drastically change the NetNavi’s memories. If Netto was here, he would be able to correct something if his father got something wrong. Having bugs in his memory was pretty troublesome as well.

On the day of the funeral, Rockman noted that it was too short, the empty casket only had his bloody bandana inside and a jar of flowers on top. Are those the only things to remember Netto by?

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Meiru had an interesting conversation with Enzan after Netto’s funeral. He told her about how Netto changed his life in such a short time. He felt like he was in his shadow until the end. Even Meiru had to accept the fact that life will go on even with Netto absent from their lives. She wonders how Enzan really feels about Netto’s death; he usually keeps personal things private. At least, she still has Roll and the others to comfort her.

As years go by, she accomplishes so much. She became a Net Savior along with Roll when Rockman went missing following a lead that Netto was actually alive and captured. Turns out, it was a trap and he was being controlled like a puppet by another NetNavi. The culprits plan to use his Ultimate Program to cause a surge at an abandoned power plant to provide sustainable power for Japan. Meiru overheard their conversation and followed them through the sewer system. She managed to fend off both the mind-controlled Rockman and the puppeteer NetNavi before help arrived in the form of Blues and Gateman, Meijin-san’s new NetNavi. After the culprits were arrested, Meiru became a Net Savior.

During her first few months, she gets better at her Net Battling skills with the guidance and teachings of Enzan and Blues. They get closer as friends as they exchange certain chip combinations and program advances. If Netto was here, she would be at the same level as him.

On her 13^th birthday, her friends threw her a surprise celebration. It was sad that this was her first birthday without Netto. In fact, he would throw the best surprise for her if she was down in the dumps. However, he wasn’t here anymore but that doesn’t mean that her other friends were here for her support and celebration of her getting older. She really enjoyed the cake that Hikari-san made for her.

Throughout her teenage years, she would ponder on the what-ifs and on the what actually happened scenarios to Netto. Did he escape? Did he die in the train explosion and was turned into ash? Or was he captured and taken somewhere? She shook her thoughts as she has a future to focus on. These last five years would have been peaceful if only Netto was here to enjoy them with her and the others.

When Meiru went to visit Hikari-hakase at the Science of Ministry, Rockman was his new NetNavi. It wasn’t easy for him, but the experience was humbling. It took a while to adjust to his new life, but with the support of Blues and Roll; he made it work. Though he does feel the emptiness of Netto’s absence. He admits that the five years without Netto were very peaceful, but he does miss the adventures he went with his operator. The peaceful years seem lonely with his operator by his side.

During the rare days off that the doctor had, he would go to his old operator’s PC. When he looks back at the empty room; it is a constant reminder of Netto's absence. It felt so empty without him. Meiru felt sad for him, is this what Navis would be like if their operator was gone? She was worried about what would happen to Roll if she was gone one day. Sure, Rockman has another operator but it wasn’t the same. Hikari-hakase was not Netto. He could not replace the bond Rockman shared with Netto.

After the visit, Rockman and Roll started dating. Meiru found out after a month.

Being the vice president of IPC has kept Enzan busy for the past five years. Even after Netto’s death, life still continues, though it feels empty. The endless hours of filing paperwork and guzzling down a lot of coffee with so much sugar and cream was a stark contrast to fighting evil organizations and fierce opponents that would keep him and Blues on his toes.

He prefers the gentle warm brown eyes of Dr. Hikari or the speculated Meiji-san that will issue him a mission rather than the piercing cold blue gaze of his father.

One day, when Meiru invited him to go to Brio Café to hang out, he vented on how his Net Savior duties were getting dull with Netto gone. The newest syndicate, Nova, paled in comparison to the ones he fought before. Nebula and both WWW reincarnations were more threatening than them. He admits that he dislikes this new routine as it is very mundane, though it would be better if things were peaceful for a while. He surely doesn’t miss his company’s network being sabotaged by an evil syndicate.

However, even deep down in his cold exterior, he still cares for Netto and admits that he is one of his closest friends.

Meiru agreed Netto has left an everlasting impression on those he left behind.

Meiru wasn’t particularly close to Laika and he barely visits Japan even after Netto’s threats. When Laika did visit, she was curious about what life was like as an ordinary Sharan Soldier.

Laika detailed his normal schedule which consists of getting up at 4 -5 A.M. by during some chores such as peeling potatoes, cleaning the soldier’s quarters, or sergeant drills. Meiru was taken aback by how early and strict his schedule was, no wonder Netto thought Laika was very strict. That was due to his training as a soldier. However, he did do risky things that contradicted his position as a Sharan soldier. Trying to disable the Dimensional Area when he went to visit Japan during Nebula’s invasion comes to mind.

Laika admits that Netto was the one to teach him that you shouldn’t be blindly following orders. Searchman was the one who taught him that. He confessed that he could go on another adventure while fulfilling his role as a Sharan soldier, but that was wishful thinking.

After Netto’s death, there was no other reason to stay in Akihara, Japan. Dekao decides to finish his studies in Jawaii so he can study to become a culinary chef, so he can help MaHa Ichiban reach greater heights and become a successful, international curry business. Although, he was better at cooking than handling finances. That money management role goes to Madoi-san.

During the five years, Gutsman missed Net Battles so much and just had a hard time adjusting to becoming an assistant to a chef. Dekao understands how much Gutsman likes to battle and decides to give him to Chisao, his little birthday. At first, Gutsman was upset that Dekao just gave him away but over time, he started to grow fond of Chisao. Under his operation, Chisao teaches him new strategies and learned how to use Program Advances more often in battle.

When Meiru went to visit Dekao in Jawaii, he was content with his new life as a chef. While Gutsman became a capable fighter with the help and guidance of his new operator, Chisao.

Tohru still lives in Akihara since his father was still working at the Waterworks. Meiru would hang out with him for at least a week or two. Unlike the others, he didn’t miss worrying about a world-ending threat and enjoyed the deserved peace. However, he admits that it has become boring. However, there was an easy fix for it, hot springs. He shares the hot spring experiences he had every month with his ex-teacher Mariko and Chisao. Sometimes Rush would tag along with their hot spring trip as well.

During their monthly hot spring trips, he traveled through all of Japan and met all sorts of people. They exchanged enriching stories of various experiences. However, he did mention that not all the hot springs he visits were not all good quality and wondered if there was a way to improve them. It was during these various trips that inspired him to follow in his father’s footsteps in water treatment.

For all that she knows about Yaito-chan, she may be the youngest of her core group but she is also the smartest due to her high intelligence that rivals Enzan’s. After Netto’s death, Yaito went to stay in Kingland for a bit due to educational purposes but came back to Japan to attend a private high school. During her trips between the two countries, she learned the customs, languages, and cultures of both Japan and Kingland. It was important for the heiress of Gabcom. However, sometimes when she sits on her private plane and looks out the window, she can’t help but ponder about what happened to Netto.

She kind of missed pulling the outrageous stunts on him and the others. They would go on crazy adventures together and see cool sights they had never seen before. Now that five years had passed, she had matured a lot more and hadn’t pulled these crazy stunts as often. Meiru was relieved as when she was younger, Yaito’s shenanigans just got on her and the others' nerves. She hopes if Netto is secretly alive and returns home that Yaito did not revert back to her old ways.

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An estimation of five years had passed since Netto’s death. Everyone has gotten older and wiser after losing the brunette. Meiru and Yaito were the ones keeping the group together. Roll and Rockman were also keeping the NetNavi friend group alive as well.

One day, everyone was occupying a cabana that was near the cemetery where Netto was buried. “So, anyway, I was thinking we should go to Cyber City for a small weekend trip,” Yaito suggested. “Dingo is going to be transferring there soon, so I was thinking it would be the perfect time to go sightseeing.”

“I think that’s a great idea,” Tohru added. “I heard that Cyber City is one of the most technologically advanced cities in Japan. I always wanted to go there, their hot springs in Seaside Town are pretty good.”

“Then it’s settled, we’re going to visit Cyber City this weekend!” Yaito declared.

“That’s good,” Meiru smiled. She curled some of her pink locks with her fingers. She decided to grow her hair longer and as a result was pretty wavy. Her clothes were more conservative with her blue cardigan over a pink tank top, a long skirt, and black Mary Janes.

Enzan is just listening to the conversation while causally drinking his cup of coffee. He was wearing a black jacket over a maroon tee shirt with a pin of his Navi’s emblem on it, matching jeans, and red, black, and white tennis shoes. Laika is sitting beside him, wearing his normal military uniform. The duo colored-haired boy notes that everyone has changed in terms of appearance.

Yaito was wearing more formal clothes. She wore a red tank top and matching Capri pants with white diamond patterns and red flats. Her blonde hair was only a single braid instead of the twin tails she fondly wore as a child.

Finally, Tohru was wearing a blue jumper with Iceman’s Emblem over a yellow shirt, jeans, and blue shoes with aqua-green highlights and white soles.

Enzan didn’t dwell too much on their appearances as he continued to listen to their conversation. Time has passed after all, it was normal to have different clothing tastes as you get older.

“So, Dingo, when’s the opening of MaHa #3?” Meiru asked.

“The end of this month,” Dingo replied. “I’ve packed all of my things and moving there. There’s a place that Mahajarama purchased for employees to live there.”

“So the new restaurant provides live-in housing for employees? That’s pretty cool,” Tohru added.

“Yeah, so I’ll probably be staying there permanently,” Dingo replied. “So, I’ll be moving out.”

“We’ll miss you Dingo,” Meiru commented.

“Huh, don’t mention it. I’m not moving out of the country,” Dingo reminded. “I’ll come to visit when I have the time maybe during the weekend or holidays when we’re not too busy.”

After an hour had passed, the group decided to call it a day and head their separate ways. However, Meiru had decided to head to the cemetery.

“She still going there, huh?”

“Well, can you blame her?” She was very close to Netto,” Yaito replied. “They were childhood friends.”

“Hey, I’m her childhood friend, too!” Dekao protested. He sighed as he gave up on pursuing Meiru long ago to focus on his cooking career. He knew as time went on, Meiru had feelings for Netto but after his death, she was very devastated. It was a shitty move on his part to pursue her not long after his death. However, Meiru rejected him as she did not feel the same way. Dekao was hurt by this but moved on and became a better chef after the rejection. Meiru was glad that Dekao didn’t actively pursue a relationship as often. After the rejection, Meiru and Dekao remained friends.

When Enzan sees Meiru heading towards the cemetery, it brings back painful childhood memories of seeing his mother's grave. To think, it would happen again to someone close to him. What made it stung more was that Netto was still a kid when he died. He was glad that Meiru and Laika were still around because he would more likely withdraw into himself and not get close to anyone due to two traumatic deaths. 

- Akihara Cemetery -

It has been a while since her last visit. The last time was after Christmas but before New Year’s Day. She remembers laying gifts on the snow-covered grave. It was early fall almost a year. ‘Time goes by fast when you’re older,’ she mentally thought.

She was going to graduate from high school soon, but she was unsure of whether to go to college or pursue a full-time job as a Net Savior. Her teenage years were mostly peaceful yet lonely. Is this what peace was like? For the exchange of ever-lasting serenity was the sacrifice of her friend? A friend who was still a child at the time? She would rather have more crazy world-ending adventures than serene peace if that were the case. She wanted Netto to live a long happy life, not die tragically young.

Before Netto died, she thought he would be around for a long time. How could she not have that thought, Netto could survive literally anything that the bad guys would throw at him. It was a very naïve thought but death was something she didn’t fully understand back then. When Netto perished in the fatal train explosion, she realized how real death could be. It could happen to anyone. She had to brush away those thoughts on the what-ifs of Netto’s terrible fate. Could he actually be dead or is he alive and living a new peaceful life? She would rather have the latter. The news of Netto living a new life with no worry of the world ending was way better than his skeletal remains strewed around the tunnels of the train station.

She was in front of Netto’s grave. It felt melancholic seeing the tombstone of someone close to you, a constant reminder that they’re not here anymore.

“Meiru-chan!” Hikari-san smiled.

The pink-haired girl sees Hikari-san and Hikari-hakase beside her. Rockman was on the scientist’s shoulder.

“Are you seeing Netto as well?”

Meiru nodded and noticed that the brown-haired woman was holding a bouquet of flowers. The bundle consists of white roses, lilies, hydrangeas, and chrysanthemums. She quietly places them in front of Netto’s grave. While Hikari-hakase lights a votive on top of the tombstone. Both he and his wife prayed for their son’s soul. Meiru, Rockman, and Roll followed suit. After their silent prayers were said, they silently looked at the grave of their dead son and friend. Many thoughts filled their heads with the what-ifs but it doesn’t erase what actually happened to him. The only noises were the cold autumn wind and the crushing of the leaves.

Chapter Text

Cyber City, is one of the most technologically advanced cities in all of Japan. One of their divided sections was Green Town which was focused on judgment and nature. Here, Sapphire Raven lives her ordinary life with her NetNavi, FlowerGirl, and her uncle, Azur.

She does know who Netto is, a prodigy at Net Battling and a worldwide hero. But other than that, she didn’t know him personally. She doesn’t know what he likes in terms of hobbies or interests or what he does when he is not saving the world. She was just a stranger to him.

However, fate had different plans. One that would change her life forever. She woke on the floor in a huge garden that was covered by a huge glass dome with hexagon framing. The plant life consists of specimens only found in tropical areas like the palm trees or the hibiscus flowers. The most interesting ones were the Morning Glories. She had never seen that type of color before. Under the right lighting, they could glow like rainbows.

She was admiring her surroundings when at the corner of her eye, she saw a shadowy figure standing a couple of feet in front of her.

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Sapphire could not understand what the figure said but her instincts were screaming at her to run away. However, something was pulling her to follow this ominous figure. She felt her body move on her own as she got up and quietly followed the figure to an area that had a pool that was concealed by a glass cover, but she could see water flowing underneath. She glanced at the figure but it was gone, leaving her alone with the presumed dead boy sleeping in the middle of the pool. She carefully approaches the boy and tries to wake him up, but she is surprised that he isn’t stirring. Sapphire does notice that his ribcage is rising and falling. ‘Must be a deep sleeper,’ she thought. She kneels beside him and gently shakes his shoulder. No budge. She shakes him more violently.

“Wake up…Netto…”

This quickly woke the boy up and he sat up. Netto was confused as he did not recognize her. Of course, he doesn’t. He is a stranger to her. He doesn’t know who she is.

“W-who are you?” Netto stammered, “And how do you know my name?!”

“Relax, I’m not here to harm you,” Sapphire reassured. “My name is Sapphire Raven.”

“Sapphire?” Netto uttered, “That’s a pretty name, but why are you in my dream?”

“I could ask you the same thing,” Sapphire added. “What are you doing in my dream?”

“Did our dreams collide somehow?”

“I guess so…”

“So, where do you live?”

Sapphire was taken aback by his question. It has been a while since someone asked about her personal life. “You’re asking me?”

“Yes, I am curious,” Netto bluntly answered. “I have never seen you before but you know me.”

Sapphire spends some time with Netto opening up about her personal life, unsure how he would react. Things were going well as the two exchanged information about where they lived, their families, and friends.

However, things go south when Sapphire gives Netto the harsh truth. His declaration of death.

“Wait, what? Dead?!” Netto replied in pure shock, “But I’m alive! See, I have a pulse!”

Sapphire hesitated but pressed on Netto’s wrist. Odd, there was a pulse. If this was a dream then is Netto still alive? Or is this another thing in the dreamscape? Sapphire had to lay it in and tell him why he was declared dead in the train explosion.

Netto did not take this well and started having a panic attack and a mental breakdown after hearing the harsh truth.

Sapphire was shocked but quickly took action and guided Netto to calm him down. “Take your time…I’m here.”

After a while, Netto calmed down and opened his eyes.

“I-I’m okay, now…” Netto stuttered, “I’m sorry, you had to see that.”

“No, it’s okay, I understand,” Sapphire assured. “You can’t control when you have a panic attack.”

“So, is it true? Am I dead back home?”

Sapphire had to explain more about the declaration of death and his funeral. Her description was pretty grim. However, Netto deflected to another topic, “I’m curious about how my family and friends are doing. Is Rockman okay?”

“Of course, when I accompanied my uncle on one of his business trips I met your father and your Navi together.” Sapphire answered, “Rockman is safe and sound.”

Netto was relieved that his NetNavi was alive and okay. He then made a very ludicrous request from her. One that could be considered borderline stalker behavior. “Hey, Sapphire. Could you keep an eye on my family and friends? I know it’s a lot but I want to make sure that they’re okay?”

Sapphire was taken aback but she accepted his request, “I’ll do my best to keep tabs on them.” ‘I wonder why he asked me to do something so personal and invasive.’

“Thank you!” Netto thanked.

“Then if you are alive where are you currently?”

“Beach Flora Town!” Netto beamed, “Though this may be hard to believe; I think I’m in another dimension. So could you help me find a way back home?”

“I’ll see what I can do,” Sapphire replied. She wonders if it was Netto trusts her enough to help him with his panic attack.

After her first dream with Netto, Sapphire did all kinds of research on the Hikari Family and his friends during his elemental school years. She looked through the most recent articles about Dr. Yuuichiro Hikari. Apparently, he’s still working at the Science Ministry back in Akihara. Next, she moves on to Netto’s friend group.

First was Meiru Sakurai, she was enlisted as a Net Savior along with her Navi, Roll. Her operating skills were pretty impressive since did participated in the N1 Grand Prix.

Second was Dekao Ooyamo, he moved to Jawaii after Netto’s departure to continue with his studies. He is currently working as a chef in a MaHa restaurant stationed there.

Third was Yaito Ayanokoji, since she is the daughter of Gabcom’s CEO she had moved to Kingland to continue her studies. However, she is considering transferring back to Japan and attending a private high school.

Fourth was Tohru Hikawa; he still lives in Akihara but goes to a different school than Meiru.

Fifth was Enzan Ijuin; he is the current vice president of IPC. Slated to be next in line as IPC’s CEO if Shuuseki Ijuin decided to step down, retire, or die. She couldn’t find much information about him since he is a private person.

Sixth was Laika; he was an enlisted soldier from Sharo. Not much info on him either since he was serving in the military, they probably have strict guidelines when it comes to posting online.

Sapphire sighed, at least she had some info on his friends. But how would she get their attention? If she says outright that Netto is alive and stuck in another dimension, then they would ask a lot of questions on how they know Netto personally, how long he’s been in contact with her, etc. A very awkward and stressful situation if she said the wrong thing to them. She was curious about how Netto managed to befriend high-profile people.

The last person on Netto’s friend list was Dingo. He was working as a delivery boy at MaHa Ichiban #1. She thinks about visiting the curry shop but she can’t just visit there out of the blue and ask Dingo about his relationship with Netto. That sounds really weird and very intrusive if she asks any personal questions since she is a stranger to him.

Stranger…

That word sounds bitter in her thoughts. She did help Netto out of the goodness of her heart when he was going through a stressful moment. But she was a stranger to him. She never hung out with him since they didn’t go to the same school nor did she visit his neighborhood. The only time she went to Densan City was when she accompanied her uncle during his various business trips.

Absentmindedly, she looks up the MaHa Ichiban Restaurant franchise. What caught her interest was there was a 3^rd restaurant opened in Central Town. Maybe she could get some information but for some weird reason, she should visit that place. She wanted to try their curry.

She gets out her green Watch PET. “FlowerGirl, could you look up the directions for that restaurant, I’m interested in trying out their food.”

“Of course, Sapphire!” Her Navi beaming at her request. Her Navi’s main body color was a neon green with a black bodysuit. Shoulder length could be seen flowing from her three different shaded green helmet and five white petals sticking from the sides of her helmet. Her gloves and boots were green with yellow rings. On her right green glove was a white bracelet with her insignia on it. Her NetNavi Emblem was a five-petal, white daisy on a dark green color palette with a yellow border ring.  

- MaHa Ichiban #3 -

The doors open automatically and Sapphire slowly enters the restaurant. The interior aesthetic reminded her of the baroque styles of Namaste* and Affrique* that she saw online. Her nostrils were hit by the curry’s aroma coming directly from the kitchen.

“Hello, welcome to MaHa Ichiban!”

Sapphire took a look at the person behind the counter. She had black hair tied into a braided ponytail with a red gem on her forehead, tanned skin, and dark brown eyes. She wore a red tank top with some patterns on it, brown jeans, and beige sandals.

“My name is Advika, what would you like to order?”

“Um, can I have some chicken curry and a can of cranberry juice?” Sapphire quickly answered.

“One order of chicken curry and a can of cranberry juice, coming right up!” Advika beamed.

She glanced behind her and saw a statue of a man standing there calmly. He had tanned skin with the only being from his small ponytail sticking up from the back. Some blue triangles on his cheeks and a red gem on his forehead. His clothes were an amber tunic with green trims and a brown belt, white bandages around his arms and lower calves, and brown sandals. His NetNavi symbol was lavender with the symbol resembling piano keys with dots on a green background. For a second, Sapphire mistook it for a real person due to how realistic it looked. She was taken out of her thoughts when a familiar guy conveniently entered the restaurant.

“*huff*, *huff* I’m here!”

“Dingo, where the hell have you been?” Advika scolded, “The last time I saw you was six days ago.”

“Sorry, sorry, I got lost!” Dingo apologized.

“I told you to use a compass or something!” His Navi scolded from his Watch PET.

“Get off, my back, Tomahawkman!” Dingo argued.

Dingo was wearing mostly black and dark blue clothes. His hoodie had some red tribal markings on it with some white trimmings, jeans with feather accessories attached to the belt, and tan and black shoes. His hairstyle remained the same with his green diamond patterned yellow headband and silver accessories on his red bangs.

Tomahawkman looked the same after the five years. He was a teal NetNavi with a black body suit. His helmet reminded Sapphire of a huge tribal headdress with protruding blades resembling feathers. His emblem was the symbol of a white eagle on a black background with a silver ring.

“I don’t understand why Mahajarama and the other staff members see in you,” Advika sighed as she massaged the bridge of her nose.  

“Sorry, Advika! I’ll go back to work,” Dingo apologized. He zips back towards the kitchen. Sapphire was baffled at how the whole scene unfolded.

“I’m sorry, one of our delivery boys is terrible with directions. Usually, we would assign him to cooking duty but our regular one was called in sick for a bad cold.” Advika explained, “Your chicken curry will be ready soon, here’s your tag. You can choose any place to sit.” Sapphire was lucky that the restaurant was empty today; she decided to eat at the back near the entrance to the kitchen.

During the waiting time, Sapphire takes out her yellow bag and retrieves her sketchbook, graphite pencils, pens, and colored pencils. She opens a blank page and starts to sketch. First were the shapes such as the lines, circles, and rectangles. Second, the rough draft such as the lines of the hair and clothing. Third, redefine the sketch and darken the lines. Fourth, was the line art using some pens. Finally, erase the pencil sketch until only the pen lines remain and colors in the lines. She admits that she was both skilled and talented in drawing with illustrations ranging from colorful pastels to somber neutrals. FlowerGirl was admiring her work from afar. She was always amazed at how her drawings always seemed to pop out on the page. She hopes that she will publish a book with her best works. The blue-haired girl was finishing her render when she heard the double doors. She paled when she recognized the group coming in.

It was all of Netto’s old friends that she was researching earlier. Net Saviors: Meiru and Enzan, Heiress of Gabcom: Yaito, Protégé Chef: Dekao, and Son of the head of Waterworks Bureau Construction Division: Tohru Hikawa. Sapphire wasn’t surprised that Laika was not part of the group since he was from another country. She intently listens to the conversation while finishing her drawing.

“It’s been a while since our last hangout, Yaito-chan!” Meiru cheerfully chatted.

“It’s my treat,” Yaito replied. “We’re just here to celebrate Dingo’s transfer to the new restaurant.”

Sapphire starts to sweat profusely as the group decides the booth next to Sapphire. Deep down she is internally panicking, ‘Oh, crap. Oh, crap. Oh, crap. OH, CRAP! What do I do? Should I move to another table?’ She was caught off guard when Dingo served her order. “Here, you go miss! One plate of chicken curry and a can of cranberry juice.”

“T-Thanks…” Sapphire uttered.

Dingo then noticed her sketchbook, “Hey, nice drawings. I didn’t know you were an artist.”

“It’s a hobby of mine,” Sapphire replied. She quickly closes her sketchbook and puts away all of her drawing utensils into her bag before she consumes her meal.

“Oh, guys! Hey, how is everyone doing?!” Dingo beamed when he saw and joined Meiru’s group.

“Dingo!” Meiru smiled, “How are things going, living here?”

Sapphire slowly eats her meal as she continues to eavesdrop on the conversation. ‘Yep, I’m definitely a stalker,’ she mentally thought. As she guzzled down her can of cranberry juice, she tried to document every conversation from the group.

“So Enzan, I heard that IPC is working on a prototype for a new PET?”

“We’re still in the planning stages.” Enzan replied, “The features we’ve been considering are life-sized holograms or improvement of the PET’s UI and other functions.”  

“So, what about your Net Savior missions?” Tohru asked, “I know most are confidential but…”

“It’s been pretty boring,” Enzan replied. “We rarely get high-risk missions but it has been far and few between.”

“Okay, what careers are you pursuing?” Tohru added, “I’ve been thinking of following in my father’s footsteps.”

“Isn’t it obvious, I’m going to inherit Gabcom from Papa,” Yaito boasted. “So of course I’m going to be a CEO. I’ve been taking classes that will give me an easier time managing the company when the time comes.”

“I’m going to be a culinary chef,” Dekao answered. “I think my cooking is good enough to pursue that path.”

“What about you Meiru-chan? Have you decided?”

“Not yet,” Meiru hesitated. “I didn’t give much thought to what I should pursue.”

“To be honest, I thought you would be pursuing music,” Yaito pondered. “I mean you were good at the piano when you were younger.”

“Well…”

“Hey, Meiru if it makes you feel any better, I haven’t chosen a career path either,” Dingo stated. “I just stay and help out at MaHa Ichiban.”

“And get lost doing delivery orders,” Tomahawkman chided.

“Hey!” Dingo protested.

Sapphire heard enough, she took out her notebook and jotted down the conversations that were important before putting it away. After she finishes consuming her meal, she calls for the check and quickly pays for it using her PET. She strides towards the door before bumping into someone and to her shock it was Laika. His intimidating height and sharp blue eyes were bearing down at her. “I’m sorry!” Sapphire cried before she zipped away.

“Geez, Laika, don’t scare away the customers,” Dingo commented. Laika glared at him after being offended by Dingo’s comment.

Sapphire pants heavily after dealing with her first encounter with Netto’s old friend group. “T-t-that was…nerve wracking,” Sapphire gasped.

“Sapphire, are you alright?” FlowerGirl asked. She quickly projected as a small hologram to access her operator.

“I’m fine, Flower, I just didn’t expect them especially those from high places to suddenly appear at the restaurant. It just took me off guard!”

“Odd, you normally didn’t care what type of people visit regardless of status,” FlowerGirl commented. “However, with this particular group, you were really stressed.”

“It’s a long story, Flower. I’ll talk about it later, okay,” Sapphire assured. “I’ll explain everything but you’ll probably label me as crazy.”

“Sapphire, you’re my operator; of course, I trust you,” FlowerGirl assured. “But if you choose to talk about it later, I won’t force you.” Sapphire was relieved and at ease at her Navi’s reassurance. She gets out her sketchbook and flips to the page of her latest finished drawing; Netto drinking water from a puddle with ocean water behind him.

- Green Town [Sapphire’s House] -

After finishing a draft of a short story, FlowerGirl brings up her weird attitude from earlier. Sapphire sighs and takes a deep breath. She had to tell her eventually. “Flower, I had a really weird dream. A few weeks ago, I dreamed of a dead person. His name was Netto Hikari.”

“Netto Hikari? The one that died in this train explosion back in Akihara like 5 years ago? That Netto Hikari?” FlowerGirl asked incredulously, “That’s very weird. Why would he contact you from beyond the grave?”  

“That’s the weirder part, Netto was still alive only in another world,” Sapphire explained. “It just felt so odd.” FlowerGirl peeks over Sapphire’s shoulder and sees her sketchbook. The more recent drawings are filled with images of the dead boy littering the pages. All of them depicted him at the beach that was near a town or city.

“That explains the weird drawings you have made recently and why your behavior towards his old friends was strange,” FlowerGirl commented.

“I know I’m trying to do Netto a favor,” Sapphire reasoned. “Besides, I think I left a bad first impression on them. For now, I’ll just keep reading through social media posts and new articles.” She looks back at a completed drawing of Netto looking out of a cave. ‘Poor guy must be homesick.’ Her attention reverts to her home computer, multiple windows were open that detail updates on new projects on both the Ministry of Science and IPC. She goes back to her work and compares the notes that she took back at MaHa Ichiban.

Chapter Text

A few days have passed since the discovery of the Ancient Relic. The group had learned a few revelations such as the confirmed existence of three different dimensions, why the Ancient Relic was inactive for so long and how to restore it, and finally, Netto has an undiagnosed anxiety problem. However, their priority right now is to treat Netto’s mental illness.

A while ago, Dr. Cerys had already scheduled an appointment with Dr. Raphael and was heading to his clinic. The scientist parks her car in one of the empty parking lot slots in front of a white modern building. Angel and Draga tagged along as support. As they exited the car, Netto noticed that the front had elegant topiaries and beautiful flower arrangements. Once they entered the building, the whole interior of the reception room was pristine and white with some plotted plants, brown leather seats, and some toys strewn around. Netto could see that some of the visitors were children and were playing with the scattered toys. Their parents keep a close eye on them.

Draga and Angel already left to go chat with someone they were familiar with. So Netto was left alone with Dr. Cerys as she chatted with the receptionist about various things relating to documentation, medical records, and other stuff that Netto couldn’t understand but deduced it was something medical-related. Once they were done, the receptionist turned to Netto.

“All right, Netto, your appointment with Dr. Raphael is ready,” the receptionist informed.

“Do you want to go alone or do you want me to come with you?” Dr. Cerys asked.

Netto glances back at Draga and Angel. They were talking to a girl with long brown hair tied into a ponytail and cerise pink eyes. Her clothes were a matching bandana, a light pink hoodie over a white tank top, light blue jean shorts with white stripes, and dark pink and black boots. On her shoulder was a pink and black Navi with long maroon hair.

“Don’t worry about them,” Dr. Cerys assured. “I believe leaving them alone in the reception room will be fine. We’re just going to be gone for at least an hour or so.”

In the end, Netto decided to bring Dr. Cerys with him.

- North Area [Dr. Raphael’s Office] -

“Ah, you must be Netto!” Dr. Raphael commented. Yup, Dr. Cerys’s description checked out, short black hair, blue eyes, tanned skin, and professional white coat, black jeans, and dark dress shoes.

“Uh, yes sir!” Netto replied.

“So, I’ve heard from Dr. Cerys that you may be suffering from an anxiety disorder correct?” Dr. Raphael asked, “Have a seat in one of my chairs.” Netto takes a seat right next to the examination table seat. Dr. Cerys takes a seat beside him.

“So, how long have you been experiencing these symptoms? Do you have heart palpitations, clammy skin, hyperventilation? Did you start having them after you completed your Process of Discovery Trial?”

“All, yes, sir,” Netto replied quietly. He looks down on his lap and starts twiddling his thumbs.

“There’s nothing to be ashamed about Netto,” Dr. Raphael assured. “I have children and adults that went through the same thing that you are in right now.”

“Really?”

The psychiatrist nodded and continued the appointment, “So Netto, what magic user type are you?”

“Electric Type.”

“Do you have a pre-existing medical condition or any family history of certain medical diseases?”

“No, but I do have a family history of heart disease.” Netto replied, “Though I’m not sure why that is important.”

“People that have pre-existing medical conditions and/or a family history of medical diseases are important. It is to document and pinpoint to make sure it is something physical not mental.” Dr. Raphael explained, “Since you have anxiety, you could be at a higher risk for heart failure.”

“A-Are you serious, stuff like this happened?”

“Of course, but if we treat the patient early, then the risk will significantly decrease.”

“I’m glad,” Netto beamed with a sigh of relief.

“So, Netto, what causes you the most stress?”

“The most stressful for me?” Netto pondered back to his life back in his old home world, “Well, I get stressed about what others think about me and the safety of their wellbeing. I don’t like feeling helpless.”

“Netto, you shouldn’t feel like you’re responsible for the safety of others, and please don’t overthink about what others say about you. In fact, 9 times out of 10, they’re more worried about their own lives than yours,” Dr. Raphael explained. “As for the helpless part, it is a terrible feeling but know this, it’s not your fault that you feel helpless at times. Trauma is part of life, support is needed to get through it.”

“Thank you, but wait what about my treatment?”

“Well, there are many options for you in terms of treatment,” Dr. Raphael explained. “What do you think would be best for you?”

“What options do I have?”

“For your case, psychotherapy, and medication.”

“Can we do both?” Netto suggested. “I’m not sure if one is better than the other.”

“Okay, we’ll do both, so Netto since you are younger the dosage for this medication will be lower. As for psychotherapy, how often should we do them and at what time?”

“Medication? What kind?”

“This medication is known to treat people like you who suffer from various anxiety disorders,” Dr. Raphael explained. “The dosage will be smaller due to your age. As for psychotherapy, I believe cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) would be the best option. Focus more on yourself rather than the well-being and options of others. It shouldn’t always be your duty to be their protector.”

“T-thank you,” Netto replied.

“So, as for your CBT session, would you like to schedule that at the end of this week? Would that be okay?”

“Of course,” Netto beamed, “But wait, um, will this disorder go away?”

“It’s hard to tell Netto, most mental illnesses are permanent,” Dr. Raphael doubted. “I believe your condition may be permanent as well. However, it can be treated but it goes both ways. You can’t always rely on treatments and medication to take care of it. You must also have the motivation to take care of yourself in order to keep it under control. It’s a long-term process.”

“I see…” Netto muttered, ‘So it is permanent. But it isn’t my fault, I didn’t choose to have this. I had due to unfortunate circumstances.’

“Will that be all?” Dr. Raphael asked. Netto nodded as he had nothing else to say. “Okay, I’ll see you at the end of this week, this Friday.”

After the appointment ended, Netto and Dr. Cerys were back in the reception hall.

“We’ll see you again on Friday, Netto!” the receptionist beamed. Netto nodded in response as he and the scientist regrouped with Angel and Draga.

“So, how was your first session, Netto?”

“It went well,” Netto smiled. “The psychiatrist was very helpful and gave me the option to choose my treatment.”

“That’s good,” Draga commented. “You know, Dr. Raphael is one of the best child psychiatrists in our town. There are a lot of great reviews from current and former patients, so you got the best treatment from him.”

“That’s pretty amazing, I didn’t know Dr. Raphael was such a well-respected guy. I’m looking forward to meeting him on Friday.” Netto beamed, “By the way, who was the girl and her NetNavi you guys talked to earlier?”

“Oh, that was Joan and Delia EXE.” Draga replied, “We don’t usually hang out much since Joan is also undergoing therapy.”

“Really, what happened?”

“You see, Joan witnessed a terrible event,” Angel explained. “She saw someone close to her die. I believe she was permanently scarred from that event. I believe it was PTSD?”

“PTSD?”

“Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder,” Draga replied. “It happens when they went through an event that is mentally scarring that they have flashbacks, hallucinations, and nightmares for days on end on reliving that event. It’s a mental loop of hell for them.”

“Poor girl,” Netto commented. “So, how is she now?”

“She’s doing better these days,” Draga answered. “Her family and Navi are helping with her mental recovery. It has helped tremendously.”

“That’s good, is there a chance I meet her?” Netto asked.

The two girls were hesitant. “Maybe another time, Netto,” Angel suggested. “Joan doesn’t feel like meeting new people today.”

“I see…So what should we do today?” Netto asked, “I feel like relaxing for a bit.”

“What about training?”

“We’ll do that tomorrow, I just don’t feel like it today,” Netto answered. “I just finished my therapy session, I think that took a lot out of me.”

“I understand, it isn’t easy coming to terms with your disorder so we’ll relax today,” Draga reasoned.

“All right, what should we do first? Hang out at the Alista Beach House or the Chroma Juice Bar?”

“Chroma Juice Bar!” Netto beamed, “I want to try their monthly special drinks. Oh boy, I wonder which one I should try, the Pineapple Slush or their Watermelon smoothie?”

“Okay, it’s settled. We’ll go to the Juice Bar first,” Draga declared.

- Chroma Juice Bar -

Joan takes a small sip of her Watermelon smoothie as Bella takes a bit out of her Cherry Sorbet.

“Hey Joan, I’m glad that you’re getting out more,” Bella smiled. “You know, most of us are worried about you. When you suddenly cut off contact like that.”

“I-I know…it’s just Jerry…”

“Are you still having nightmares about him?” Bella asked.

“Y-yes…” Joan muttered.

“Joan…” Delia commented.

“After Jerry died, I’ve been…” Joan trailed off as she took out her pink stress ball. Her first squeeze but gentle but becomes more frantic and harder. The sound and frequency of the ball were becoming rapid. Bella was getting concerned as she felt that Joan is still recovering from the trauma of losing her closest friend.

“Hey, you okay, Joan?”

The brunette girl suddenly stops her frequent squeezes, “I’m fine, I’m fine, I’m fine, I’m fine…”

“Joan…Do you want to go to Aurelius Park?” Delia suggested, “It did wonders for you so…”

Joan took a deep breath and calmed down. “I’ll go there later.”

“Anyway, every time I come here it reminds me of Neon City…” Belle deflected as she looked up to the color neon décor of the bar.

“Neon City, your previous home?”

“Yeah,” Bella replied, “That city was full of energy and possibility. However, we had to move due to the increase in teenage crime. My parents believed that if I stayed there then I would be influenced and do bad stuff, too.”

“So, you moved because your parents were afraid of that?”

“Yeah, I was pretty upset at the time,” Bella confessed. “I was just getting the hang of settling down and having fun with my classmates. Spectra and Reina were a great help but ever since I moved away, we don’t see each other as much.”

“That’s pretty sad…” Joan commented, “But at least your friend is still alive, Jerry’s…”

“Hey, take your time,” Bella assured. “It takes time to heal from a friend’s departure.”

“Okay…”

The main door opened and to Joan’s shock, the person with Draga and Angel was Jerry? He looked a little different since he was wearing a bandana around his head but she was certain it was him.

“So, what drink do you want?”

“Let’s see…”

Joan slowly got up from her chair and approached the Jerry look-a-like. “Joan?” Bella was confused until she figured out that Joan was approaching Draga’s group. “Wait a minute…Why is she going there?”

“How about the Lemonade Slushie?” Netto suggested.

“That’s a pretty good one,” Angel commented. “I guess I’ll take the Dreamy Ice Cream Float.”

Netto felt a tap on his shoulder. He turned around and saw Joan. “Um, hi? Did you need anything?”

“Jerry is that you?”

“Jerry?”

The two girls turned around and noticed that Joan was mistaking Netto for her deceased friend. “No, Joan. This is not Jerry.” Draga corrected, “This is Netto. He’s new here.”

“Netto?” Joan muttered. She takes a closer look at him and notices her mistake. On a closer look, Netto had brown eyes not grey. “I-I’m sorry, I thought you were him.” She backs away and quickly exits the juice bar which left Netto and the others confused.

“Huh, now that you mention it, Netto does resemble him,” Angel observed. “When I first met him, I didn’t give much thought.”

“…Um, who’s Jerry?”

“He’s Joan’s childhood friend,” Draga replied. “He died a few months before your arrival.”

“Oh…So, how did he die?”

“Well, what I’ve heard is that Jerry drowned when they went on a school fishing trip,” Angel pondered. “I didn’t go but those that did were traumatized by the event, Joan and Darren were the most affected. There’s a memorial for him at Jerry’s school.”

“Poor girl…Wait, who’s Darren?”

“Darren is Jerry’s Net Navi,” Draga replied. “Don’t worry, Netto. It was probably a coincidence, I mean there’s a small chance that you would run into your doppelgänger.”

“Yeah, with so many people running around the world, you are bound to run into someone very similar to you.” Angel added, “Come on, let’s order and find a place to sit.”

- East Area [Aurelius Park] -

Joan hyperventilates after she puts her hand on the nearest tree. She was heavily panting after seeing Netto. “Joan? JOAN! Are you okay?!” Delia fretted.

“I-I’m fine…” Joan assured, “I-it’s just…” She then sits next to the tree and hugs her legs close to her chest. “Am I going to be okay? Things have been really rough after his death.”

“Joan, it’s okay…” Delia assured, “It is okay if you are having a hard time dealing with Jerry’s death. You are still recovering from the shock of losing him. It is not your fault that he died.”

“Yeah, but it’s been like 4 to 5 months, I should be over it…” Joan complained, “Maybe…This Park was the place for me to calm down and relax. However, even Jerry managed to find me here. My secret garden…No, I should keep moving forward. Thinking of the past constantly is not healthy.” She looks at the sky and notices how clear it is. “It’s very beautiful today.”

“It sure is…”

“How’s Darren doing?” Joan deflected.

“He’s still hanging on,” Delia replied. “He has been really quiet lately after Jerry’s passing.”

“And his parents? Are they taking care of him?”

“Yes, although they have been really quiet as well. Should we visit them again? I think our presence will help them a lot.”

“I guess…”

“Hey Henshin, check this out!”

Joan recognized the voice as Aeon’s and went to investigate. She went to the skating area where Aeon was showing off his skateboard tricks to Henshin. The redhead was in the middle while the musician was trailing and doing crazy flips on the ramps. After finishing all of his tricks he does a smooth stop in front of the red-headed boy.

“That was really great, Aeon,” Henshin praised. “You’ve gotten better last time!”

“It’s all about repetition and practicing really hard,” Aeon replied. “So do you want to try skateboarding?”

“Sorry, but I’ll pass. The last time I did it, I broke my wrist so never again,” Henshin declined.

“Check this out, guys!” Isla boasted. She suddenly zips out of nowhere and starts grinding on the rails with her skates. Once she was done, she landed in front of the two boys.

“Whoa, that was impressive,” Henshin commented.

“Show off…But that’s the number 1 Beach Flora skater for ya,” Aeon added. “She’s been like that ever since she was six.”

“That was awesome, Isla-chan!” Netto beamed. The three looked up and saw Netto, Draga, and Angel approach them.

“Hey, you three!” Henshin greeted.

“Hey, Henshin,” Angel responded.

“That was a pretty cool stunt you pulled off,” Netto beamed.

“Thanks to you,” Isla answered. “So how often do you rollerblade?”

“All the time back in my old home,” Netto replied. “But I lost my skater blades in a train explosion.”

“Oh, yeah, I think you mentioned it a while back,” Aeon recalled.

“Have you considered getting new ones?” Henshin asked, “I am curious about your rollerblading skills.”

“Yeah, you could beat Isla?”

“Me, nah, I’m the beast here in Beach Flora!” Isla boasted, “No one has managed to beat me so far.”

“Yeah, but it’s pretty hard to get some new blades right now,” Netto doubted. “I looked around and all the roller blades were sold out. The other option is online but the prices were expensive.”

“Huh, scalpers…”

“Scalpers? What are those?”

“It’s a term used to describe someone who sells things at higher prices than the normal than the official ones,” Henshin explained. “I wanted to buy an action figure since the ones were all sold out in town and the prices were astronomical; I swear it was highway robbery. Don’t buy them at those prices, you will get ripped off.”

“Well, I guess we have to wait until they restock,” Netto doubted. It was a shame really as he was a pretty skilled skater.

Behind the trees, Joan was very upset. How dare this doppelgänger show up and mockingly remind her about her loss. She felt like her recovery had gotten slower since the new boy, Netto, arrived.

She was about to go home when she bumped into R.C. She was writing some stories and there were piles of scribbled papers strewn on her blue checker blanket. “Joan is that you? It’s been a while.”

“R.C….Fancy seeing you here,” Joan commented. She decides to sit on the edge of the blanket near the pile of discarded papers.

“I haven’t seen you much, how’s therapy?”

“It’s okay,” Joan replied. “I had to keep reminding myself that Jerry’s departure was an accident.” She looks down at the scattered notes. “What are you writing?”

“A comedic poem,” R.C. replied. “I thought it would be a good exercise.”

Joan picks up one of the discarded notes and starts to read it. She froze when she heard footsteps coming.

“R.C.!” Netto called. He stops when he recognizes Joan. “Hey, aren’t you…”

Joan scampers and goes against the tree. “Why?! WHY?! Must you torment me? I did nothing wrong! I’m not responsible…I’m not responsible!” Tears were starting to form in her eyes. 

“Hey…” Netto then approaches her and hugs her.

Joan froze at the embrace, “W-wait, what are you doing?”

“Everything is going to be all right,” Netto assured. “I know what happened to your friend. You were guilty that you caused his death.” Joan then breaks down crying as tears start to wet his vest. The brunette just rubs her back. As the rest of the group join in, they just stand there stunned as they watch the traumatized girl being comforted by their new friend.

The next day, Netto was happily sketching on his tablet using a touch pen. He has downloaded some drawing reference books and has started to learn perspective. He couldn’t draw people yet, only simple 3D shapes like cubes, cones, and spheres. He was almost done when he heard his bedroom door knock.

“Netto, it’s me, Ruby!” Frost and I want to hang out with you!”

Netto gets up from his desk and answers the door. There and behold was the brunette duo. “Hey, guys what do you need?”

“We just want to hang out with you today,” Ruby replied.

“Uh, okay. I was drawing something.”

“Oooooh…What are you drawing?”

“Just shapes, nothing more.”

“Let me see, let me see!” Ruby grabs Netto’s tablet to take a closer look.

“H-hey, be careful with that!”

“This perspective is pretty good,” Ruby commented.

“Let me see it as well,” Frost insisted. He takes a glance at the digital drawing, “Hmm? This is pretty good for a beginner. Are you sure you’re not a talented artist?”

“Um, well…I was just practicing.” Netto confessed, “I haven’t drawn people yet.”

“Have you considered taking a drawing class?” Frost suggested.

“Wait, they have those here?”

“Yeah, during the summer months, classes in various subjects such as cooking, sewing, or drawing are open!” Ruby explained, “People of all ages sign up for them. They’re pretty popular.”

“That’s cool, where do I sign up?”

“Oh, at the Ancients History Museum,” Ruby piped up. “That’s where I went to sign up for cooking class.”

“Hmmm? If I that these classes then would my drawing skills improve?”

“Of course, my cooking skills improved greatly when I took my cooking class last year.”

“Okay, let’s go to the North Area and sign up right away!”

As the trio went downstairs, they quickly brushed past Draga and Angel.

“Bye, Draga and Angel, we’ll be heading to the museum. I’m going to be signing up for drawing classes!”

“Okay, have fun!” Draga shouted back.

“Don’t be back too late!” Angel added.

- North Area [Ancients History Museum] -

Netto was amazed at the huge crowd in front of the museum. Various people were lining up for different classes. He goes up to the board that showcases which classes are open or full. Most of them were open as there were some spots available but some were already filled up, such as pottery class and swimming class.

“Huh, filled up already?” Frost commented.

“It’s not surprising,” Ruby added. “The pottery and swimming classes are always filled up because the teachers are famous celebrities. They come to teach a class of their choice every year in Beach Flora Town. Because of this, it’s usually filled with their fans instead of people who are trying to learn the craft. However, most of them who attend their classes have a better grasp of the subject. Those that failed were too busy trying to swoon the teacher instead of actually learning.”

“Come on, Netto. Let’s get you signed up for drawing classes.” Frost insisted, “Let’s see which seats are open.” He checks the board and see if there were any available classes under the Drawing category. “Here’s one, Ms. Azami.”

“Uh, Ms. Azami? Why her? Have you seen her ratings?” Ruby doubted, “She’s the literal worst teacher. I’m surprised she isn’t fired yet.”

“What’s wrong with this teacher?” Netto asked.

“Well, Ms. Azami has a record of being late to her own class every single day,” Ruby explained. “Now that in itself is not bad but she doesn’t even teach the material properly to students. In fact, I think she forgets to teach the crucial parts of the art or something.”

“Wow, that is a really bad teacher,” Netto commented. ‘And I thought my tardiness was bad, I was always late to my classes.’ He was starting to see the irony of attending a tardy teacher’s class.

“Okay, then let’s see if the slots for the other teachers are available.” Frost goes back and sees that the slots for the other drawing classes were filled. “Nope, all full.”

“Are you serious? That fast?” Ruby exasperated, “Sorry Netto, looks like you’re going to be taking her class. Listen if she does not show up in more than 30 minutes then you’re free to leave.”

“Um, I don’t mind taking her class, I mean she can’t be that bad right?” Netto reasoned.

“I don’t know, I’ve heard from the other kids that Ms. Azami is pretty bad,” Ruby doubted. “I asked Aile, who attended one of her classes. She quickly dropped it and never looked back.”

“Well, I have no other option.” Netto writes his name on the board. “Okay, I’m all signed up so when does her class start?”

“Most of the drawing classes start next week,” Ruby replied. “So, I think Ms. Azami’s class starts around the same time as the others. Now that you are officially a part of the class, we should go buy supplies right now.”

“Good idea,” Frost agreed. “Come on, Netto. I know an art shop that sells quality products at an affordable rate. They’re having a sale today. A perfect opportunity to get the things you need.”

- East Area [Mcmennamy Behance  Art Shop] -

The inside of the shop was pretty cozy and displayed all sorts of art supplies from graphite pencils to painting easels. “I admit, I like how comfy this place is.”

“Mcmennamy’s is well-known for its relaxing atmosphere.” Frost replied, “I would get my sculpting tools here.”

“Hello, Frost!” the cashier greeted.

“Hello, Delphine,” Frost replied.

“Wait, Frost, you know the cashier’s name?” Ruby asked.

“Of course, Frost is one of our regulars at our store,” Delphine smiled. “Oh, who is this?” She was talking about the orange vested brunette.

“I’m Netto Hikari, nice to meet you!”

“He’s new here,” Frost explained.

“I see, since you are new here, let me show you the ropes.” Delphine explained, “Here is a purchase stamp card. We give one out to each new customer.” The cashier gave Netto, a white card that had a row that featured all seven days of the week. “Every time, you purchase an item at a story every day, you get a stamp. If the entire row is filled with stamps, you get a coupon. This couple will give you 40% off any item, regular price, sale, or clearance. We reset the stamp card every Saturday.”

“Really, that’s so cool!” Netto beamed.

“However, do not fret. If you were unable to complete your stamp card, we give away a consolation coupon. It’s a 20% off item.”

“Come on, Netto, let’s go buy your supplies.”

“Okay, what do I need for her drawing class?” Netto asked.

“Oh, look there’s her list!” Ruby points to a paper rack that lists the different classes and their required supplies.

Netto goes up towards it and finds Azami’s class near the top. He takes one and skims through it. However, he was confused about some of the items listed. “Why is glaze here? When I think about the term, Mama would use it for sweets like cake or donuts.”

“Netto, the type of glaze that the list informs is a type of liquid is used on pottery as a type of coating,” Frost explained. “Though I don’t know why that’s on the list. That should be for the pottery classes.”

“Well, if it’s on the list, we should buy it,” Ruby insisted. “Come on, let’s grab a cart and look around.”

“Fine…”

Ruby quickly finds a blue shopping cart and rejoins with the two boys. A few hours passed and the small group managed to find most of the supplies on the list such as watercolor paints, crayons, clay, paper, and scissors.

“Let’s see, the last thing we need is some sketchbook that is 9X12?”

“Netto that refers to the size of the sketchbook in inches,” Frost corrected. “So 9X12 means 9 inches wide and 12 inches long.”

“Inches not centimeters?”

“We use a different conversation system here,” Frost replied.

“Oh, I found one!” Netto accidentally bumps into Joan.

“Ah, sorry! O-oh, Netto!” Joan recognized.

“Hey, Joan, how are you doing?”

“Fine, actually,” Joan looked down abashed. “Listen, I’m sorry I broke down crying on your vest yesterday.”

“Hey, it’s okay,” Netto assured. “I’m just glad you are doing well. You did need a hug at the time.”

Joan was surprised, why wasn’t he a little upset that she ruined his vest? Though by his behavior, he seems pretty genuine as he wasn’t bothered by his vest getting ruined. Instead, he was glad that Joan was doing mentally well. “You’re right, that was silly of me but thanks for the hug.”

“No problem, so why are you here?”

“I’m getting supplies for Ms. Azami’s art class,” Joan replied.

“What a coincidence, I’m attending her class as well!” Netto beamed.

“Seriously, Joan, you couldn’t find any other drawing class?” Ruby doubted.

“When I went to sign up, the others were already filled up,” Joan answered. “I was pretty upset.”

“Hey, Joan, let’s try to get along in class, okay?”

“Okay, but it will be hard since you look like him. You both have that same gentle gaze,” Joan commented. “I wonder if you two would get along.”

“I think we would,” Netto added. “Your friend, Jerry, seems like a nice guy.”

“Yeah…” Joan replied. She looks up and for a second could see Jerry smiling instead of Netto.

- North Area [Children’s Wellness Clinic {Dr. Raphael’s Office}] -

Friday came and his first CBT session was underway. Netto was incredibly nervous. He was alone with the psychiatrist since Dr. Cerys was too busy with work to accompany him.

“Hello, Netto,” Dr. Raphael greeted. “How are you feeling today?”

“I’m good, I signed up for an art class.”

“Oh really, what’s your teacher’s name?”

“Ms. Azami…”

“Ah, Azami. Chandra Azami, she was my classmate when I was in middle school.” Dr. Raphael recalled, “She always had a habit of being late. I’ve heard from former students that attend her drawing class that she hasn’t kicked that habit yet.”

“Funny story, I was always late to my morning school classes back in my old home.”

“Is that so? I hope you kicked that habit. Well, in that class, let us begin the session,” Dr. Raphael deflected. “Today, we will be focusing on your responsibility to protect others. I believe you might have a Savior complex.”

“Savior complex or the lesser known term, white knight syndrome, describes the need to “save” people by fixing their problems,” Dr. Raphael replied. “It describes people who only feel good when they believe helping others is their purpose. The dangerous part is that you expend too much energy fixing others you end up burning out.”

“I did not know that, I thought helping others was a good thing,” Netto reasoned.

“It is but overdo it and you end up being physically and emotionally exhausted,” Dr. Raphael replied. “Your anxiety seems to stem from not helping someone in a dangerous situation and that the responsibility falls onto you.”

“Oh, that.” Netto muttered, “Well, I’m not too sure when it started. Although I do know when I was younger, Papa was always traveling for work and I got picked on a lot for being weak at school. I think it was when I was protecting my old childhood friend, Meiru-chan, is when it started.”

“I see were you upset that your father wasn’t around much?”

“Well, yeah, I didn’t understand at the time that Papa needed to work to provide for me and Mama. I just want him around more, you know…”

“I see…so your father hasn’t been home much due to work-related obligations?”

“Yes…”

“Well, Netto, I’ve also known that you came from Japan,” Dr. Raphael informed. “In Japan, adults have to work long hours that average around 8 to 12. When they work for a company, they have to dedicate their entire life to them. Life or die as they say. It is a very toxic mindset, Netto.”

“Really, I didn’t know that. I didn’t think it wasn’t normal for adults to work long hours, I thought they were working hard,” Netto commented. “When Dr. Cerys would get home before sundown, I thought it was weird at first but I got used to it. Papa would rarely be home for many months. It must be very hard for him. Papa trying to balance the loyalties between Mama and me and the Ministry of Science…”

“It’s alright, Netto. It is your father’s choice to open up about his struggles, not yours,” Dr. Raphael assured. “His work has gotten you and your mother a stable life correct? But you need his love and support?”

“Papa doesn’t travel as much anymore, his current workplace is at the Ministry of Science in Japan which is one place thankfully.” Netto added, “But yeah, I do need his love and support and I’m glad I have it now. Though I wish I had it earlier. I’m sorry, I sound so selfish.”

“Netto, it’s alright. Children tend to crave a parent’s affection if they were too busy for work or other commitments when they were growing up.” Dr. Raphael assured, “It is very common for the working fathers in Japanese culture to be absent during their child’s life. It’s not a very good cultural mindset studies show that if a parent is absent for a long period of time during a child’s development it could affect their educational performance in school.”

This was an eye-opening moment for Netto. Could his father’s absence during his early childhood be a factor in his poor performance in school? Though he was responsible for his grades and other school obligations; he couldn’t help but think about it.

“Next, let us talk about your goals,” Dr. Raphael reflected.

“Goals like what?”

“Do you know what you want to do in the future?”

“No yet…I’m still deciding.”

“Okay, what about your hobbies? You did tell me that you are attending an art class next week.”

“Yeah, drawing classes,” Netto beamed.

“Good focusing on your hobbies, it is a great way for you to gain more skills, increase your creativity, and more importantly lower your stress.” Dr. Raphael explained, “Focus on that and your mental health will improve.”

The rest of the session went like a blur. Netto did well in his first session. The psychiatrist gave more helpful advice on how to alleviate his symptoms, invest more explore his hobbies, and how not to get into peer pressure since children his age are very prone to it.

In the end, he and the psychiatrist decide to schedule weekly CBT sessions before June 22^nd hits, the day of the Summer Solstice Festival. The day where Netto will start his journey.

- East Area [Ancients History Museum {Azami’s Class}] -

A week later, Ms. Azami’s class beings. Coincidentally the schedule for her art class always seems to be before Netto’s scheduled CBT appointments. When Netto shows up to attend, he realizes that other people are waiting in front of the door.

“Joan!” Netto called, “Is everyone waiting for the teacher?”

“Oh, Netto! Yes, but she hasn’t shown up,” Joan replied. “It is literally time for class to start.”

 “Man, where the hell is she?” one boy whined.

“I thought teachers were supposed to be punctual,” a girl chimed. “I’m getting bored.”

“Man, what a double standard. If I was late to class, I got punished and a call from my parents. If the teacher was late to teach, nothing?” another boy complained, “I swear…”

The students heard footsteps coming towards the classroom, they thought it was the teacher but it was a blonde girl that was about Netto and Joan’s age. “*huff*, *huff*, I made it…”

“Um, are you Ms. Azami?” one of the girls asked.

“Nope, the name’s Spectra,” the blonde girl clarified. Spectra’s blonde hair was tied into a side ponytail, had light green eyes, and fair skin. Her clothes were a white shirt with frills, a pink bow, and a pink heart on the left side of the stomach area, light blue jeans with a flower design, and purple shoes with blue and green highlights and black soles.

“Spectra? Wait, aren’t you, Bella’s old friend?”

“Yeah, I came all the way from Neon City!” Spectra beamed, “Are you Bella’s friend as well?”

“I’m Joan and I have a NetNavi named Delia.”

“Hi, nice to meet you!” Delia greeted in her small hologram form.”

“You have one as well? Here’s mine, this is Reina.”

A female Navi shortly appears on Spectra’s shoulder. She was about the same height as Delia. Netto was mentally noting how colorful her design was. Her helmet was lavender and light blue with a bow two hearts and a pair of small wings. The hair flowing out of her helmet was blonde and light blue. Her eyes were pale blue. Her chest armor was green, yellow, and orange with hearts, lavender gloves, and her matching boots with blue dots, black leg warmers, blue armor around ankles, and red and black on her feet. Finally were her accessories. She had yellow shoulder pads with blue ribbons and a yellow choker with a pink heart.

“Hello, I’m Reina! Nice to meet you all?”

“By the way, Spectra, why are you here?” Joan asked.

“Oh, I’m here to visit Bella. My parents recently bought a vacation home in the area and I decided to drop by.” Spectra replied, “It’s been a least a year since she moved away from Neon City.”

“Now that everyone is here, where’s the teacher?”

The crowd froze as they heard another set of frantic footsteps which belonged to a middle-aged woman with lavender hair tied into a low bun, grey eyes, and pale skin. Her clothes were a light peacock green sweater, black pencil skirt, and purple pumps. “I’m sorry that I’m late. Let me unlock the door so we can start class.”

Every student felt relieved as the teacher finally arrived and opened the door. The classroom was very big and spacious with easels set up, cabinets that display various art pieces, a chalkboard, and various tables for people to sit and group up. Netto decided to sit at a table that was close to the entrance but not too far away from the teacher’s desk.  Joan sits across from him while Spectra sits beside her.

Class starts when Ms. Azami heads to her desk. “Hello, class. My name is Ms. Azami,” the teacher introduced. “I will be teaching drawing classes for at least a few weeks for the summer. My drawing medium specialty is watercolor and pencil.”

‘Okay, standard stuff,’ Netto mentally commented. ‘I wonder why the teacher is so hated though.’

“You know class, I know it’s hard for a night owl like me to get up and arrive to class on time, but I’ll try my best,” Ms. Azami casually commented.

This raised Netto’s eyebrow in interest and confusion. Why would a teacher say that in front of a class that just literally started? He shook his head, maybe she was being open. But then another question opened up, why is Ms. Azami always late? The class was not terribly early. He checked what time the class actually started and it was at 9:30 AM, not 6 AM. So what was the real reason?

“So, class today we’ll start with watercolors.” Ms. Azami instructed, “Please get out your watercolor sketch pads.” Netto gets out his and opens it to the first blank page. “There are cups near the sink, get yours and your brushes ready.” Some of the students went up from their tables to get their cups while others were getting their paintbrushes from their bins or bags. Once everyone obtained their supplies, the teacher continued with her lecture. “Alright class, now get your color paint cases. If you didn’t bring yours there are extras at my desk to use.” Most of the students brought their own and opened them up. “Now class, there are a few techniques when doing watercolor. The most well-known are wet-on-wet and wet-on-dry. I will be teaching you how to use the wet-on-wet technique today.” She pulls up an easel that already has a blank canvas. “First, wet your brush using your cup of water and paint your two rectangles.” Ms. Azami dips her brush into her cup and paints two small squares onto the canvas. Netto does the same but was confused about what was point of it was. He notices that his squares are darkening the paper despite brushing with only water. “I know that the first step is confusing but pick any color from your palette box and fill in the first square.” The teacher uses red. Netto colors his with orange. “Now for the second rectangle, just put small dabs on it with either your first color or an entirely new one.” Netto washes his brush with his cup of water and chooses blue. He dabs the second square with small specks of blue. “Now, we wait for them to dry. I’ll give you a 5-minute break.”

“So, Joan what colors did you choose?”

“Blue and pink? Yours?”

“I choose yellow and red; what about you, Netto?”

“Orange and blue.”

“Those are complementary colors,” Spectra explained. “They’re actually opposites on the color wheel.”

“Color wheel?”

“It’s part of the color theory. It is what artists use to find a practical combination of colors to determine what looks good. Colors that look good together are called a color harmony,” Spectra explained.

“What a coincidence, I would often choose orange to pair with my favorite color, blue.”

“Then you have good color coordination with your clothes.”

“Uh, thank, I guess.”

“Hey, the paint is drying,” Joan noted.

Netto notices that his painting is drying and the shading between the two squares is very different.

“This is how the wet-to-wet technique works,” Ms. Azami explained. “Once the pain is completely dry, the difference will be more prominent. It is normal for colors to appear less vibrant once they dry. This technique is great for making interesting textures for painted shapes. Class dismissed.”

“That was fast…” Spectra commented.

“Well, it would’ve been longer if Ms. Azami wasn’t late,” Joan added. “Probably to compensate for her tardiness, she teaches pretty well on her knowledge of watercolors and graphite drawing.”

“Anyway, can’t wait to see you next week,” Spectra beamed. “I had fun with you two.” Netto agreed as he did enjoy their company and can’t wait to see them next week.

The next week comes and Netto comes to class with his art bag slung on his shoulder. And lo behold. Ms. Azami was late again. This was the second time that the teacher was late, he hoped this wasn’t a daily occurrence. Although he regretted not heeding Ruby and Dr. Raphael’s words about his teacher’s tardiness.

Once the teacher finally arrived and opened the classroom Netto took his spot on the table across Joan and Spectra. They were pleased to see him. The girls seem to be in a good mood today.

“Alright, class, today we will learn about graphite drawing,” Azami said. “This is one of the easiest mediums to master. I hope you have some understanding about this.” The class knew how easy and fun drawing with a pencil was. “As you know, sometimes making quality artwork requires the right and inadequate tools. For example, a mechanical pencil may be a handful tool but the lead itself is very important.” As the teacher goes on in her lecture, Netto rests his right arm on the table by the elbow and propped his head up. He already knew some of this on his own but he was surprised he didn’t fall asleep. Usually, he would do that in Mariko-sensei’s class, maybe because he was interested in the subject? The only other subject he wouldn’t fall asleep in was virus busting and he was an expert on that.

After class was dismissed, all the students left with their art supplies and headed out. Down the hallway that leads back to the entrance, Spectra and Joan started chatting.

“So, Spectra did you hang out with Bella?” Joan asked.

“That’s right, Bella was surprised at first but she was so happy to see me!” Spectra beamed.

Netto was trailing behind the girls as he listened to the casual conversation; so far Joan has been doing well. Even though he had comforted her, a week ago she was still cold to him due to his deceased friend. He was a bit disappointed but accepted it; it wasn’t his fault that Joan was avoiding him. He wished he could be friends with her but his similar appearance to Jerry was holding that back.

Outside, Draga and Angel were waiting for him. “Hey, Draga-chan and Angel-chan!”

“Hey, Netto!” Draga greeted, “How was your drawing class?”

“It was okay, I learned a lot of useful stuff but the teacher is always late.”

“I have heard. A lot of students drop her class due to her tardiness.” Angel commented, “I’m surprised you came on the second day.”

“Joan seems better these days,” Draga commented.

“Yeah, but I don’t like how distant she is to me,” Netto muttered. “If only she would open up more. I did help her last week but it wasn’t enough.”

“Netto, it’s okay,” Draga assured. “Give it time, Joan is still healing.”

Netto decides to drop it as he also has to think about his mental well-being. Joan will be fine, she has her family and friends that will support her. Just like him.

- West Area [Cerys Residence {Netto’s Room}] -

Earlier, a package arrived in the mailbox that contained Netto’s medication. When he unwrapped it, it was a small orange pill bottle with a prescription label on it. He could barely pronounce the words of the name, “Benzo…ben zodiac…”

“It’s called benzodiazepine, Netto,” Dr. Cerys corrected. “It is a common drug used to treat anxiety disorders.”

“Is it okay for me to take this?” Netto asked, “I don’t want to be seen as…”

“You are not, Netto,” Dr. Cerys assured. “If you follow the instructions on the bottle and don't become too dependent, you will be less likely to become them. Besides, it is heavily restricted and monitored by medical professionals, you are in safe hands.”

“I see…” Netto replied. Dr. Cerys reassured him that it was okay to take his prescription daily. Once she left his room, he took one small white pill and downed it with water. He puts it on his desk and cuddles under his bed sheets. He felt like a weight has been lifted but it will take a while for the effect to kick in. Netto will have to get used to his new routine of taking his medication every night. As he drifts off, he feels like he is being whisked away.

- Netto’s Dreamscape -

“Netto!”

“Oh, Onee-san!” Netto beamed. He realized that he was in his dreamscape. Sapphire was present but was surprised that Draco was also there. “Draco?”

“Hello, Netto, I have been keeping a close eye on you.” Draco replied, “You have been starting your prescription.”

“Yes.”

“That’s good,” Sapphire replied. “You are following the instructions on the bottle, right?”

“Yes,” Netto repeated.

“Good, remember Netto. Self-care is important. Don’t forget that once you go on your journey.”

Netto nodded then remembered something, “How is everyone doing in my old home world?”

“Well, we are in December and people are getting ready for Christmas,” Sapphire replied.

“Christmas? You mean in a few weeks, you’ll be getting ready for the holiday break?” Netto replied, “To think time goes by fast back home.”

“Netto? How long are going to keep this up?” Sapphire asked.

“Huh, what do you mean?”

“I mean, I feel uncomfortable keeping tabs on your family and friends,” Sapphire confessed. “Your friend or rival, Enzan is catching on that I’m ‘watching’ them.”

“Typical Enzan, he always is the first one to catch on,” Netto grumbled. “Oh, but if you feel uncomfortable about keeping an eye on them, then I don’t mind if you take a break every once and a while. I don’t need to know what they need to do on a daily basis. Maybe a monthly update?”

“Okay, that makes things much more manageable,” Sapphire said relieved.

“So, what should we call this place?” Netto deflected.

“You mean your dreamscape?” Sapphire asked. “Technically, it’s not your dreamscape since I can get here but not all the time when I fall asleep. What do you prefer?”

“Well, since we are inside of a dome and there are plants everywhere, how about Dome Garden?”

“Dome Garden? That’s a bit on the nose,” Sapphire commented, “But it does fit where we are. We’ll go with that. Dome Garden it is.”

“Sapphire, the reason you are here tonight is about your newly acquired powers,” Draco explained. “They will help you hide if you are being watched.”

“Really, you mean I get my own form?” Sapphire asked.

“Yes, but in due time,” Draco answered. “For now, it will remain dormant until the time comes.”

“Are you serious, you mean I can’t utilize it, unlike Netto?”

“I’m not sure why, since Netto managed to unlock his pretty easily when he accepted his contract,” Draco recalled. “I think it depends on the vessel. However, despite not gaining full access to your form, you can still use other aspects of it. Such as hiding in the shadows. Use it wisely though.”

“Thank you,” Sapphire said relieved. “At least, I’m not completely locked out of my form, but wait I didn’t sign any contract.”

“That’s because the contract is for first vessels only,” Draco replied. “You are considered a secondary vessel. Every additional vessel is considerably weaker in comparison to the first. However, if Netto is unable to do his duties then you will take over until he is ready.”

“So does that mean I’m spare? Cause that’s pretty lame when I think about it.”

“It’s a safety measure,” Draco answered. “Since Netto is too young to fully handle my power, I need an extra one to mitigate it. Just consider it a fail-safe.”

“Still…”

“So, Onee-san are you going to travel during the Christmas Break?” Netto deflected.

It was amazing that Netto could easily change the subject. “Um, no, we going to be staying in Green Town but we’ll be visiting Akihara Town a few times for business-related trips.”

Netto and Sapphire continue chatting with Draco listening keenly.

EXTRA: Full Body Art Design of Joan and Delia EXE 

Chapter Text

Crunch! Crunch! Meiru’s pink boots left behind footprints every time she took a step on the snow-covered sidewalk. She decided to walk around her neighborhood but stopped in front of Netto’s house. Her brown eyes looked up longingly at the empty balcony. She remembers when she was younger, she would throw snowballs at Netto’s balcony door to catch his attention. Meiru giggles at the memory of Netto being flustered when he found out that she was the one who threw the snowballs. He would grab his winter attire and hang out with her and the others. That was five years ago.

Winter already arrived in December and snow blanketed the streets of Densan City. Meiru sighs as she wanders around the streets of downtown Akihara. She looks at the window displays of various clothes. “I wonder what gift I should give to Yaito-chan this Christmas. No, she has a lot of clothes. Maybe something homemade would be better.” Meiru sighed as there was another bitter feeling that was colder than the chill of winter. The holiday of winter love. In Japanese tradition, Christmas is known for being a lover’s holiday in the same vein as Valentine’s Day and White Day. She foolishly thought that in the year that Netto died, she would confess her love to him with a gift and he would reciprocate her feelings. But fate had a different plan, Netto died that year and she had to leave the gift, she painstakingly chose, on his grave instead.

On the first Christmas that Netto died, the Hikari Household exterior was left plain. It felt weird for the blue and white house to not be decked with Christmas decorations. “Another year without you,” Meiru muttered. Before she knew it, it would be Christmas then the New Year. Year 6 without Netto. There was a lingering emptiness without their bright cheerful, heroic friend around. It always felt like something is missing. She shook her head, she was older now. She should let go of the past especially her lingering unrequited feelings for Netto.

Her pessimistic train of thought was interrupted by Anetta. “Hey, Meiru-chan! It’s been a while!”

“Anetta!” Meiru beamed, “How have you been?”

Anetta did not change much after the 5-year skip. Her red hair was still tied into a ponytail but wore winter clothes, a white beanie, blue winter coat, black jeans, and matching blue winter boots. A yellow scarf around her neck completed the look. “I’ve been great, we should go shopping together!” Meiru agreed and the two went downtown together to get some good bargains for the end of the year.

Maybe some shopping with Anetta would distract her for a bit.

- Akihara Tower -

Christmas decorations adorn the interior of the tall building alongside signs promoting big sales. Meiru looks around and notes that not much has changed during the five-year skip. People were blissfully going through their daily tasks and shopping for their loved ones with good deals as a bonus. Amongst the crowd, she spotted Yaito and Jasmine around the crowd. She calls for them and they happily greet and join them.

“Anetta, Meiru-chan, it’s been so long!” Jasmine greeted. Her winter clothes were a white beanie hat, matching jacket dress, black jeans, and white and pink boots. She grew out her hair like Meiru only tied into a bun ponytail.

“Jasmine, it’s nice to meet you again,” Meiru smiled. When they were younger, she would be jealous of how close she was with Netto. However, Jasmine only looks up to Netto as a brother and close friend. After Netto, death, they became friends and stayed in touch as Jasmine would occasionally send her letters from time to time.

Yaito and Anetta were on okay terms, but they still competed for Enzan’s affection even though he had no interest in them romantically.

“So, Jasmine what brings you here to Japan?” Meiru asked.

“Oh, I’m on vacation,” Jasmine replied. “Grandpa allowed me to visit since I’m old enough to take care of myself.”

Meanwhile, Sapphire was eavesdropping on the conversation behind one of the tower’s fake trees. ‘Man, why did I agree to this?’ she mentally doubted, ‘This is literal stalker behavior. FlowerGirl did assure me that we were doing spy work or something. What am I, twelve?’ Once the group of girls are out of sight by a store, Sapphire comes out of her hiding spot. She was wearing different attire with a dark green hoodie with her Navi’s symbol and slices of watermelon on the sleeves and white stripes on the chest area, and dark green shoes with black soles. She still retains her black tee shirt underneath, knee-length raven blue shorts, and black socks. She looks down at her green Watch PET anxiously. “Man, I didn’t know Netto befriended a lot of people.”

“I know, Meiru and Yaito know two people that are going to work in the medical field, Anetta and Jasmine.”

“Anetta is going to study at a well-known Japanese medical school in Tokyo on a scholarship. Jasmine is finishing up her apprenticeship with her grandfather from Choina,” Sapphire recalled. “Apparently, he’s a well-known herbalist.” She froze when she spotted someone familiar in the distance, Enzan. She was annoyed as she remembered when she accidentally bumped into him in October when she was trailing Dekao and Chisao. She knows that he is not dumb; he was well-known for being keen and intelligent for his age. Who knows how much it has improved? It was probably sharper than most teens his age. Luckily, her status as an Aaron allows her to sneak away and blend into the shadows easily. It was a very useful ability.

When Enzan looked to where Sapphire was, she was instantly gone. He thought he was seeing things.

“Enzan!” Meiru cried, “Over here!” The duo-colored boy sighed; he was grateful to see Meiru but dreaded to see Yaito and Anetta. He didn’t dislike them but he just wasn’t interested in their advances. He just preferred work and other interests. 

- Sakurai Household -

“I’m home,” Meiru muttered as she entered her familiar empty home. She puts away her coat and goes upstairs to her room. She lazily plops on her bed, staring blankly at the ceiling, wondering about life in general and what to do for the upcoming year.

“Meiru-chan can you plug me into the computer?” Roll asked. “I want to go and hang out with Rockman and the others in the Net City.”

“Sure, plug in Roll!” Meiru plugs Roll into her PC which has a link to Internet City. Once the pink Navi left, Meiru just continued to lay in bed thinking deeply in her mind. A lot of things happened after Netto’s death, during their tranquil time, everyone was going their separate to carve their own path in life. However, something always seems to be missing. She wished he would still be here so they could discuss about their future careers. ‘So much time has passed since you were gone, Netto. I hope you’re happy wherever you are.’

- Internet City [Japanese Server] -

Rockman and Roll were happily linking arms as they walked through the bustling streets of Net City. There were many improvements during the five-year gap. It was livelier with billboards and advertisements floating in the sky. Since Christmas was around the corner, the streets were decorated with cyber trees adorned with holiday decorations.

“It’s so pretty,” Roll commented.

“Yeah, everyone is getting ready for the holiday spirit,” Rockman added. ‘Netto-kun would be as well. He would love to see the display, too.’

“Oh, Gutsman, Glide, Iceman!” Roll cried, “Over here!”

“Roll-chan!” Iceman beamed.

The original group joined up and chatted away about how their lives were doing.

“So, Gutsman, how is life being as Chisao’s NetNavi?” Roll asked.

“It’s going quite well!” Gutsman beamed, “Chisao is really talented as a Net Battler. I even gotten better at Program Advances – de gutsu!”

“I’ve been helping with Tohru-kun a lot lately, he will be done with all of his studies next year,” Iceman informed. “However, it’s going to be hard since I have to juggle the responsibilities between being his Navi and his father’s. Helping with Tohru-kun’s studies and maintaining the Waterworks Network at his father’s workplace is no easy feat.”

“What about you, Glide?” Roll asked.

“Oh, Yaito-sama has decided in Japan during the holiday break,” Glide replied.

As the group continued to chat away, FlowerGirl was hiding in the shadows. Carefully listening in on their conversation. Sure what she was doing may be wrong, but she had to get more details from the Navi side. 

Rockman and his group of friends continue to walk around the city. It was very peaceful and relaxing as various NetNavis walked idly by, either talking to others or enjoying the Christmas display. It all seems perfect, whimsical, and cheery. But deep down, it was a distraction from feeling the emptiness from Netto’s disappearance. Everything will be okay, he has family and friends for support. He was okay, he will be.

- Shin Ichirou Hotel -

Sapphire sits alone on the chair of her shared hotel room. She was impressed with the elegant interior, with beige floors and neutral pink walls of the living room especially the flat-screen TV and the comfortable plush sofa. She was fortunate enough that Uncle Azur was able to secure a room with two separate bedrooms with a shared bathroom. As she sips on her green tea, she scrolls over the messages sent by her friends who were currently overseas.

The front door opens and her uncle appears with a box of pizza and some boxes of sweets. “Oh, Sapphire, I managed to snag some food from the reception on the collaboration deal between Gabcom and a retail brand company.” Sapphire happily opens the box to reveal macarons, one of her favorite confectionaries. She pops a pistachio-flavored one into her mouth as her uncle looks through his email.

“Hmmm? A showcase of a revolutionary new net battling system at Akihara’s Kouki Building?” Azure read, “Sapphire, you should come to this event. You’re into Net Battling, right?”

“Yes, but casually,” Sapphire replied.

“IPC has been working closely with several companies including the Ministry of Science and Gabcom to provide better experiences for future Net Battle tournaments.”

Sapphire was curious, what type of revolutionary new net battling system is this company doing?

- Kouki Building -

Once 7 P.M. hit, Sapphire was inside the Kouki Building which was well-known for hosting various events. She noticed that there was a considerable crowd today, the most notable being veteran Net Battlers. She could recognize a few faces like Torakichi* Aragoma from Akindo City*, the Net Battling Chess Champion, Tamako Shiraizumi and Metalman EXE, Tensuke Takumi and Topman EXE, etc. Were they also here for the demonstration? She and her uncle Azur take their seats and the lights dim. Spotlights converge on a group of people in front of the stage. She recognized a few people in the group including Dr. Hikari, Enzan, and Meiru. She could barely see Meijin and his assistant at the back as they were being obscured by the darkness.

During the speech, Dr. Hikari speaks about the AR System. The Alternate Reality will allow NetNavis to be closer to their operators despite fears of what happened in the past. Dr. Hikari assured the public that there will be restrictions to the system so that NetNavis doesn’t cause harm. He then presents Enzan and Meiru, the two opponents that will test the new AR System Stadium. The scientist then turns to the audience and asks them who would volunteer to take them on. Many hands and hollers went up, which was too loud for Sapphire’s liking. To her surprise, Dr. Hikari chose her out of all people. Why her? She felt nervous as the spotlight shone on her brightly. She sighed as she headed to the front. She could feel many eyes watching her as she went up to the battle console. Her partner, Misaki Gorou. Wait, didn’t Netto mention that he was part of the Net Police?

“Nice to meet you,” Misaki greeted. “So, you’re my Net Battle partner, let’s do our best together.”

Sapphire nodded as she got her Watch PET ready. She took a few deep breaths before plugging in.

“PLUG-IN!”

“FlowerGirl!”

“Prisman!”

“TRANSMISSION!”

- Kouki Comp [Prototype AR Stadium] -

As the two NetNavis entered the network of the AR Stadium, FlowerGirl was amazed at the huge crowd. She felt so pumped and excited to participate in such an event.

“You seem pretty excited,” Prisman smiled. He was mostly a purple and white NetNavi with red eyes and his insignia being a blue triangle being reflected by a red and blue light on a white background and a black border ring.

“How could I not?! This is a huge event!”

“Prisman!” Roll called.

“Roll, Blues, fancy seeing you here,” Prisman greeted.

“Wait, you know these two?”

“Of course, they are part of the Net Savior program,” Prisman explained. “They’re my co-workers.”

“I’m FlowerGirl, nice to meet you all!” The green NetNavis beamed.

“Nice to meet you, too. FlowerGirl!” Roll smiled.

FlowerGirl felt bad for keeping this big secret from the Navis and their operators, but for now, she had a Net Battle to focus on and win.

A loud sound goes off, followed by the white capitalized words saying start. The Net Battle has begun!

“Battle Chip, Bamboo Sword, Slot-In!” Sapphire cried.

FlowerGirl’s arm morphs into a green sword and starts to charge. Blues quickly blocks it with his default sword.

“Battle Chip, Wide Sword, Slot-In!” Enzan replied.

The red NetNavi’s right arm morphs into a blue sword and does a wide slash around FlowerGirl’s abdomen area.

“Go Prisman! Battle Chip, Cannon! Slot-In!” Misaki commanded.

Prisman’s right arm morphed into a red cannon and shot at Roll. The pink NetNavi effortlessly avoids his attack. “What?!”

“Roll Whip!” Roll slaps him with her yellow antenna. Prisman was sent back after that attack.

“Prisman!”

“Gorou, we need to come up with a plan,” Sapphire suggested.

“Right, so what should we do?”

“One would need to distract them while the other will wait for the perfect time to attack.”

“So, a diversion so the other can deal a surprise attack?” Misaki summarized, “A bit different but I think it can work. Prisman set up some of your crystals around the field.”

The purple NetNavi agreed and materialized a few floating crystals using his Dark Prism attack. Roll and Blues were confused but were taken aback when Prisman started firing. The two NetNavis were dodging the attacks.

“Battle Chip, Cross Gun, Slot-In!”

“Battle Chip, Barrier, Slot-In!” Meiru cried.

“Battle Chip, Life Aura, Slot-In!” Enzan cried.

The two Battle Chips protected Blues and Roll from his attack.

“Battle Chip, Mini Bomb! Double Slot-In!” Misaki cried. Prisman throws two Mini Bombs at his opponents, which causes a huge smokescreen on the field.

“What’s going on?”

Sapphire sends three chips to her PET before looking back at the screen.

FlowerGirl comes flying in on a Dash Connor before slicing the two opponents with a Fumikomi Cross * and leaving a Time Bomb on the floor before disappearing. Before the two can react, the bomb goes off.

“What the - ?”

“Where did FlowerGirl go?”

Enzan quickly accesses the battlefield, how did FlowerGirl manage to catch Blues and Roll off-guard to attack and quickly disappear just as quickly?

Prisman quickly delivers another Cross Gun attack to which the other two NetNavis get away as the smoke from the Mini Bombs fully dispersed.

Roll and Blues were on edge, now they had to deal with Prisman and an unpredictable NetNavi that could appear out of nowhere, attack then disappear again.

“How is that green Navi attacking us one moment and vanishing the next?”

Blues looked at Prisman and saw a blur of green on one of them.

“Enzan-sama, FlowerGirl is using the prisms to hide!”

“Time to break them open, Battle Chip, Break Blade! Slot-In!” Enzan cried. “Find the prism, FlowerGirl is hiding in and destroy it!”

Sapphire was shocked, Enzan already found out their strategy. She sends a Vulcan Battle Chip and a Recovery Chip and watches anxiously. Blues cautiously looks at the various prisms, looking for any green discoloration. He finds one in the middle and charges.

“Prisman, defend her! Battle Chip, Fumikomi Cross! Slot-In!”

Prisman appears in front of Blues to attack but the red NetNavi quickly blocks the attack. The green blur was gone from the prism behind the purple and white NetNavi.

“She got away!”

“I’ll go after her!”

“Battle Chip, Fighter Sword! Slot-In!” Meiru cried. Roll’s charges forward and her right arm changes to an orange sword. She finds the green discoloration and breaks the prism. FlowerGirl is sent back after the crystal is shattered.

“I’m not done! Vulcan!” FlowerGirl cried. She fires a barrage of bullets at the pink NetNavi. The green Navi suddenly glowed and her wounds were healed.

“Recovery…” Roll muttered.

“Battle Chip, Recovery, Slot-in!” Meiru countered. The pink-haired girl slots in her Recovery Chip and Roll’s bullet wounds were instantly healed.

“Damn, our strategy was exposed,” Prisman cursed.

“We’ll just use something else,” Sapphire replied. She looks at the remaining panels. ‘This may be risky but…’ “Battle Chip, Killer Eye! Slot-in!” A blue-colored Killer Eye called Joker Eye fires a few lasers at the prism and bounces it off the others in the entire field.

“Prisman, duck!”

“Blues, dodge it!”

The two NetNavis got out of the way of a laser projector heading straight towards them.

“Battle Chip, Sword, Slot-in!”

FlowerGirl’s arm morphs into a blue sword and charges at Roll. She quickly blocks it with her Fighter Sword.

“It is very clever to use the environment to your advantage, but I think using the Killer Eye kind of backfired,” Misaki commented.

“What other choice did I have? Blues, Roll, and their operators quickly found out the Prism hiding strategy.” Sapphire argued, “This was a bit risky but it can be controlled.” The laser from the Killer Eye keeps bouncing off the remaining prisms.

Roll and FlowerGirl keep clashing with their swords, while Prisman tries to gun Blues down with Cross Guns and Spreader Guns.

The battle was intense between the two parties.

Then comes the climax. “Enzan, we need to perform a Program Advance,” Meiru suggested. Enzan agrees and gets the chips ready.

“Battle Chip, Sword, Wide Sword, Long Sword, Slot-In! Program Advance!”

“Battle Chip, Arrow, Triple Slot-In. Program Advance!”

“Beta Sword!”

“Zeta Arrow!”

With a great burst of area, FlowerGirl and Prisman were logged out due to their sheer strength.

“Prisman and FlowerGirl are unable to fight, Blues and Roll win!”

“We did it, Enzan!” Meiru beamed. Enzan agreed, it had been a while since he had an exhilarating Net Battle.

Sapphire sighs in disappointment, she lost. She felt a hand on her shoulder. The blue-haired girl looked up and saw Misaki smiling. “That was a great Net Battle, using Prisman’s crystals to manipulate the environment. Not many would use that to their advantage.”

“Uh, thanks.” Sapphire smiled. She breathed a sigh of relief, she hoped this was the last Net Battle she had to face against Netto’s former friends.

After the exhibition match was over, the AR Stadium was a success. Which pleased everyone. Sapphire was relieved that it was done. She goes back to her seat and listens a bit more of Dr. Hikari's presentation before returning back to the hotel.

- Ministry of Science -

After the success of the AR System, while using the Net Battle Machine, Dr. Hikari and his staff were working hard at tweaking the system to make sure it is safer for public use.

Rockman and Gateman were also assisting in the network side of things. “Papa, everything is going smoothly,” Rockman informed.

Enzan and Meiru were also looking over the process of how the AR System will improve Net Society as a whole. It would be a safer version of a dimensional area. Hopefully, in the future, NetNavis will project themselves in a life-size hologram to interact with their operators.

Enzan then brings up a screen with the press of a button from his PET. It was replaying the Net Battle between Misaki and his partner, Sapphire. He was analyzing every single move in the battle including the environment. His eyes were mostly fixated on how FlowerGirl was battling. Swift, fast, and responsive to battle stimuli just like Rockman was when he was operated by Netto. He makes the video window smaller and brings out another video of Misaki and Sapphire working together. Enzan was looking more closely at Sapphire, she would sometimes slot her chips in before looking back at the screen. How did she know how to manipulate the environment to her advantage, not many NetNavis with operators use this tactic. When and where did she learn it?

“Enzan?” Meiru asked breaking his train of thought, “Are you going to do anything this Christmas?”

“Not really, I have to deal with more projects as we’re getting close to the holidays.” Enzan looks back at the video. Sapphire Raven and FlowerGirl…Would they be the ones to rival him and Blues? No, they weren’t replacements. No one could rival the power and battle prowess of Netto and Rockman. Netto was the reason that Rockman was such a formidable foe. Without him, Rockman was just a regular NetNavi with no additional moves just his buster. Sure, he has his Ultimate Program but Netto was the one to utilize it to the fullest. He looks back at the screen, imagining Rockman typing away at his work. Did he have thoughts about Netto? Did he miss the adventures he had with the brunette? Or is he content with his new life? He could not tell but Rockman seemed to be coping well with Netto’s death. Life seems to go on, time does not wait for the dead.

He should move on as well. It wasn’t healthy to keep thinking about the past. Maybe he should go forward, though there were lingering thoughts about the what-ifs. What if Netto did survive the train explosion? What if he survived and is living a fulfilled life without any stress to live up to the family name and save the world? It was possible but was only wishful thinking. He didn’t want to close the case on Netto’s death so early but with the evidence presented, it was hard to tell. He wanted to case to remain open and have Netto be delegated to a missing person. However, pressure from the higher-ups forced him to declare the brunette dead. It wasn’t fair to him, Netto’s friends, or the Hikari Family, but it was the Net Police’s final decision.  

He quietly looks back at Dr. Hikari and his team making some tweaks to the AR System.

- Net Police HQ -

The next day, Meiru finished her report after her last mission concluded a week ago. After turning it in, she bumps into Misaki. “Oh, Misaki-san!”

“Oh, Meiru-chan, nice to see you! Our battle at Kouki Stadium last night was truly exhilarating, it has been a while since I got a great Net Battle.”

“That is true, what was your partner’s name again? Sapphire Raven?” Meiru recollected. It wasn’t hard to forget her since she had striking bright blue hair and irises that resembled the color of raven’s feathers.

“Yeah, she was really good at Net Battling,” Misaki fondly remembered. “In fact, it was her idea. She wanted to use Prisman’s ability to mask her Navi from Blues and Roll’s sight to attack.”

“Wait, it was her idea?”

“Yeah, but the weird part was I didn’t tell her about Prisman’s ability,” Misaki pondered. “I did tell her that Prisman could use Dark Prism to trap viruses and NetNavis but to use it as a field advantage was something else. I didn’t think I could do that.”

This caught Meiru’s attention, Sapphire can analyze a NetNavi’s abilities and Net Battle strategies and use them to her advantage in order to manipulate the environment. But what caught her interest, is that she knows their strategies. She knows Blues and Roll’s abilities and attacks, she knows how to use Prisman’s ability creatively, and she even knows what battle chips she and Enzan use. Just who is she? Logically, she must have watched old videos of the N1 Grand Prix since Sapphire does recognize some of the chips she used. She and Enzan never attended any more Net Battle Tournaments after Netto’s death.

She shook her head as she went to get some coffee. After retrieving her cup, she finds a quiet spot to listen to her music playlist to finish some homework while looking out occasionally out the window to enjoy the serene winter scene.

Chapter Text

For the next few weeks, Netto created a simple routine; every week, get up and eat breakfast, attend his drawing class that meets up twice a week, and attend his CBT session at the end of the week. The best part is that Netto can deviate from this routine and spend time with his friends. For a long time, he felt like himself. No more worrying about saving the world from evil organizations that want to either rule or destroy it. No more worrying about living up to his peers’ expectations. No more worry about living up to his family’s name. He didn’t mind following his father and grandfather’s footsteps, but his peers expecting him to due to his heritage did damper his thoughts and ambitions of continuing the Hikari legacy on the evolution of the Network. However, with the manifesting of his new electric powers and being diagnosed General Anxiety Disorder caused him to have doubts about his family and his friends accepting his new self. He felt closer to himself yet at the same time further away from his old loved ones.

Was it because they viewed him as a hero that let the consequences be damned and saved the world due to recklessness? Or do they genuinely love him as the boy who would do the right thing despite the circumstances and obstacles going against him? He doesn’t have much time to quell those thoughts as he has a bigger goal to achieve. Once the 22^nd hits, the portal will open, and his journey to save Purity and her Zeva and Nix’s clutches, and make sure that war doesn’t break out in the process.

During that time, Netto was getting better at drawing with the graphite and watercolor medium from Ms. Azami. However, the teacher keeps showing up late to class. At first, she was thirty minutes late, but over time she seemed to show up later and later. Her class was about to end and she arrived one hour after class started. Netto was curious and frustrated, why was she showing up so late often?

It was near the end of June, when you sign up for these classes they end before the last week of the month. Then they will start again in the second week of next month. As Netto went to his class, he saw a man that was about in his fifties. He was wearing construction clothes to the museum. The only thing missing was the hard hat. Odd, why was he here? Maybe to fix something in the museum? When he went to his classroom door, he already noticed that the class door was open. Things just got weirder. As he entered the classroom, he saw the same construction guy at the teacher’s desk.

“Hello, sir!” Netto greeted.

“Hello, are you one of Ms. Azami’s students?”

“Arthur Darius,” the construction guy replied. “You can call me, Mr. Darius.”

“I’m Netto Hikari,” Netto added. “I have to get to my seat.” As he went to get seated, he had forgotten to ask Mr. Darius on why he was there.

After a couple of minutes have passed, the rest of the students show up. They all took their seats and waited for Ms. Azami to arrive. She does not show up as the time for class begins, but for the students it was normal. However, Dr. Darius seems offended that the teacher is not punctual to her own class. To pass the time, students started to either doodle in their sketchbooks or talk at their table. Netto was no exception as he was chatting at his table.

“So, Joan, what medium did you decide to use for your project?”

“Watercolor, I’m almost done with my piece,” Joan replied. “What about you?”

“I decided to do a graphite pencil drawing,” Netto answered. “I already finished the shading and lighting last night.”

“And you Spectra?”

“I actually decided to do a mixture of both,” Spectra replied. She gets out her drawing which seems to be a blend of watercolor and graphite pencil. It depicts a simple purple iris flower.

“Whoa, that looks so cool!” Netto beamed.

“Spectra, how did you achieve that?”

“You see when I was out shopping for supplies, I came across a special type of colored pencil that mixes both mediums.” Spectra explained, “They’re called watercolor pencils. I had to look at some online tutorials on how properly use them. What about your drawings?”

Netto and Joan hold up their drawings. Joan’s was a simple landscape with mountains during sunset. Netto’s was a pure graphite drawing of Rockman as a mochi doll.

“Uh, Netto, who’s that?”

“This is a mochi doll depiction of my old NetNavi, Rockman,” Netto replied. “I lost him during a train explosion.”

“That’s pretty cute,” Spectra commented.

“Train explosion?”

“I’ll tell you girls later, it’s a long story.”

An hour later, Ms. Azami was still not here. Mr. Darius was not pleased, “Excuse me, I hate to interrupt but what time does your class usually start?”

“Well, 9:30 AM actually,” one of the students replied. “Seems like she’s late again.”

“Is she always this late?” Mr. Darius integrated.

“Yes…” Joan replied deadpanned.

“Um, I think she had to help a relative with something?”

“Mr. Darius sighed in disbelief, “Well, this is a shame. Because I’m the art director and I was here to supervise her class.” Everyone fell silent after he told the shocking news.

“Oh no, the teacher is about to get fired,” a female student muttered.

“Servers her right, she should’ve known better than to arrive late every single session,” a boy student replied.

“It is literally near the end of June and you haven’t done a critique?”

Netto was confused, what was a critique? In fact, Ms. Azami didn’t go over just the basics and techniques to improve your drawing skills. “A critique is where the class gathers and gives constructive criticism on your art piece to improve.” Spectra explained, “I’ve been to a fair few.”

“Nope…” another female student answered.

“Wait a minute, are you saying that none of you did any critique?”

Netto shook his head in disbelief, Ms. Azami’s tardiness had come to bite her. And he used to be the tardy one, but at least he doesn’t have a job on the line. The art director got everything he knew from Netto’s nonverbal behavior. Mr. Darius got up from his seat and wrote something on the board with an easy-erase marker. “Alright, class, I wrote my contact information on the board as encouragement for you to inform me more about your class. Also, I deeply apologize and wish you all luck.” He then leaves the classroom with his belongings in tow.

Coincidentally, Ms. Azami enters the room once he leaves. “Sorry, everyone I had an emergency with a relative so -” She was cut off when her phone went off due to a message notification. She glances at it and to her horror, it was a message from her upper manager.

Ms. Azami,

As you know, Art Director, Arthur Darius came to supervise your class and informed us that you were always tardy for every class session. You have a mandatory job assessment on July 5^th. This will determine on whether or not you will continue to work for our establishment or be let go.

Thank you,

Manager Yoru

The expression on Ms. Azami’s face gave Netto all that he needed that she was in the hot seat; her teacher career was on the line.

“Come on, Netto, let’s go. Class is over,” Spectra replied. She starts packing away her supplies. Joan follows suit.

“Wait, no critique?” Netto asked.

“Nope, I always dislike those; it is necessary but I don’t like how your piece of art gets heavily scrutinized by your peers.”

“So, no class next week?” Joan piped up.

“Considering that Ms. Azami is more worried about keeping her job, I think this may be the last class of the month,” Spectra replied.

“That’s a shame,” Netto commented. “It was really nice to have you two as my classmates.”

“Me too,” Spectra smiled. Joan nodded in agreement, sure Netto’s uncanny similarity to Jerry might have put her off, but she quickly warmed up to him. She didn’t know why, but there was something about him that made others drawn to him.

As they exited the museum, Draga was there waiting for him. “There you are, Netto! I got some great news, Dr. Cerys wants to see you at her office.”

“Really? This is the first time, I got invited to visit her office,” Netto beamed. “Sorry girls, but I have to go. I have an important meeting with Dr. Cerys.”

“See ya, Netto! It was nice knowing you!” Spectra chirped.

“You, too!” Netto replied.

“Wait, aren’t you going to tell us on how you lost your Navi in a train explosion?” Joan asked.

“Another time, this is more important!” He joins Draga and both of them go to the TDF District.

- Dr. Cerys’s Laboratory -

“Oh, Draga and Netto, welcome!” the female scientist greeted. “I’m working on the Dimensional Area. By the way, Netto, thanks for the term.”

“Uh, you’re welcome?”

“Oh, is that Mira?” Draga was referring to one of the test tubes that was housing the green ribbon Navi.

The trio then approaches Mira’s chamber. Natsu was also present as she was looking to make sure her Navi was not in pain.

“Hello, Draga and Netto,” Natsu beamed.

“Natsu, what are you doing here?”

“I’m volunteering to test out Dr. Cerys’s prototype,” Natsu replied. “So far, everything is stable.”

“How is Mira doing?”

“I’m doing fine,” Mira replied. “It feels nice to be in the real world even though it is temporary.”

“I’m glad, everything is working out quite well,” Dr. Cerys replied. “Netto, the true reason you are here is because I contacted my boss and the higher-ups know about your Aaron Status and the interdimensional portal.”

“Y-y-you did? What did they say?” Netto stuttered.

“They were elated that a new Aaron was found,” Dr. Cerys beamed. “And because of that, they believe that a breakthrough in interdimensional travel is possible. However, they were disappointed that the located Ancient Relic could not be reactivated without a Zeva present.”

“What has the higher-ups said about the fabled 1,000 portal opening on the Summer Solstice?” Draga asked, “I did inform you about this earlier right?”

“They said that they will have a team set up on the day of the festival,” Dr. Cerys replied. “They will be discreet about it.”

“So why bring me here? Is there another reason?” Netto asked.

“Well, we were looking through the records that date back to 1,000 years ago and dug up as much information as we could about the Ancient Relics and their power to transport individuals to other worlds. We tried to replicate them but it takes a lot of energy, especially with the Elemental Matters, but since you are the new Aaron then maybe it could resolve the energy issue.”

“Wait, so you need me to help you and the other scientists power up the machine you managed to construct?” Netto comprehended, “Wait, what are Elemental Matters?”

“They are the power source of our world, they are responsible for ending various crises such as energy and famine.” Draga explained, “We used them for battle and everyday uses. It is considered a renewable resource.”

“Really, that’s cool!” Netto replied. The brunette could hardly believe that the energy source here could solve all of the world’s problems. He wonders if he could some of it home. “Wait a minute, you need me to power up the machine?”

“Well, yes, but it is still in the testing phases,” Dr. Cerys explained. “All you need is to transfer a bit of your Aaron powers and activate the machine.”

Netto was a bit peeved that he was being used as an energy source but was curious about their interdimensional machine. His contribution could revolutionize dimensional travel and probably help him go home. “How long would this process take?”

“About a couple of hours.”

“Okay, I’ll help.”

- Testing Room 41423 [Multiversant Testing Chamber] -

Netto was brought into a testing room where a group of scientists were waiting for him. It was assuring that Draga and Natsu were behind him for support. The chamber was filled with crystals in different colors with wires connecting to a single spire that seemed to reach the ceiling.

“Is that the machine?” Netto was in awe at how grand, magical, and scientific everything is.

“That is the Cosmic Spire, a monument of dimensional hopping research,” Dr. Cerys explained. “Since we have you, Netto, we have a chance to advance in our research.”

“Research? You mean to build an artificial Fossa Ambience?” Netto asked.

“Yes, Netto, we need you to make this dream a reality.”

“That sounds pretty cool,” Netto commented. “How does it work?”

“Transform to your Draco Form and the machine will do the rest,” Dr. Cerys replied. “Begin the experiment.” Netto did as Dr. Cerys instructed and transformed into his Draco Form and slowly put his hands on the machine. His dark powers slowly flow into the giant spire.

“Everything seems to be stable, Dr. Cerys,” a scientist informed.

“Energy stability slowing rising, 10%, 20%, 30%, 40, 50,” another scientist read.

Electricity started to build up in the machine and bright colors started to emit. Things seem to be going smoothly until an alert goes off.

“Oh no!” a scientist grasped, “The machine has gone haywire!”

“Draga, Natsu, find a place to hide! Quickly!” Dr. Cerys commanded.

“What about you and Netto?” Draga fretted, “I don’t want to lose you as well!”

“We’ll be fine just hide! NOW!”

Natsu had to physically drag Draga towards the nearest pair of machines to take cover before a bright colorful explosion filled the room. It quickly subsided and everyone was okay and alive. No one caught in the blast sustained injuries. The cause for no deaths was Netto putting up shields around himself and everyone to protect them from any debris or a sudden surge of energy.

“D-d-disperse,” Netto gasped before he reverted back to normal. He fell to the floor on his knees. “T-t-that was awful…”

“What on Earth just happened?!”

“It must be an energy overload, Dr. Cerys,” a scientist replied. “We need to shut down the machine for at least 48 hours to retry.”

“I don’t think I want to try that ever again,” Netto bemoaned.

As a scientist looks at the cosmic Spire’s network, he notices something odd at his screen. “Wait, there’s something in the network!” he informed, “I’m not sure what it is but it seems to be a NetNavi?!”

“A NetNavi?” Dr. Cerys was confused, “There wasn’t one in there when we started the experiment.”

“Maybe it came after the machine went haywire, but it is hard to say,” another scientist suggested.

Draga and Natsu get out of their hiding space. They were relieved that no one got killed but were curious about the mysterious NetNavi that suddenly appeared in the experimental spire network.

“Dr. Cerys, let me and Mira investigate this matter,” Natsu offered. “Natsu is fully operational and healthy after the Dimensional Area experiment, so let me help. I’m the only one who has a NetNavi.”

“All right, Natsu, but get some battle chips ready in case this Navi turns hostile,” Dr. Cerys cautioned.

“Plug-in, Mira! Transmission!” Natsu plugs her NetNavi into the nearest plug-in port on the Cosmic Spire machine.

- Cosmic Spire Comp -

Mira was inside the experimental machine’s network and noticed how cracked and broken everything was. Fractured panels and fragmented crystals were floating all over the place. She searches everywhere until she finds the NetNavi face down on a nearby floating island.

“Natsu, I found the Navi!” Mira reported. She carefully traversed a makeshift bridge that was the closest to the island and knelt beside the unconscious program. She was curious about where this NetNavi came from.

However, Dr. Cerys interrupted her thoughts. “Good work Mira, I’ll transfer the unconscious Navi to an empty PET. I need to make sure they are working properly.”

Where am I?

Did the portal work?

Am I in the correct world?

Bzzzzt! Warning, unauthorized scan into memory banks. Blocking entry unless permission is granted.

Huh? Someone is trying to look through my memories? How invasive? I could understand why NetNavis don’t like this part. It’s like you’re being pulled apart, molecule by molecule.

Hmmm? Am I being forced awake?

Dr. Cerys was confused, why wasn’t she allowed to look through her memories? She was able to view the other aspects of the Navi’s frame but not the memory banks. It was the only area she was denied access to. “Strange, the surface code seems to be intact but I can’t gain access to the Navi’s memories. Whoever programmed them must have very tight security in this area.”

Netto was curious about the mysterious Navi on Dr. Cerys’s screen. The Navi was mostly grey, black, and white. The only splash color was blue; it was seen on her helmet’s gem and visor, and over-the-knee sock-like armor. A long string of dark blue hair from the back of the helmet. Her emblem resembled a white feather on a dark blue background with a grey border ring. At first glance, the Navi was rather plain looking with the design vaguely based on a medieval knight. The physique was very feminine due to the short skirt but he wasn’t too sure if the Navi was male or female.

“Um, Dr. Cerys, is there a way to wake the Navi up?”

“Are you sure? I’ve been doing a memory scan but without the proper authorizations I can’t do it,” Dr. Cerys explained. “Are you sure you want to wake this Navi up?”

“I’m certain,” Netto replied. “I want to see the Navi.”

Dr. Cerys relented and turned off sleep mode. The Navi’s visor turned a lighter shade of blue when activated.

“W-where am I?” the voice asked. Netto noted that the Navi sounded very feminine.

“Hello, there! I’m Dr. Cerys,” the female scientist greeted. “What is your name?”

“A-a-avatar,” the Navi stuttered. “My name is Avatar EXE. T-this is…”

“You are in my computer’s network,” Dr. Cerys answered. “We found you in our experimental Cosmic Spire machine during testing. Where did you come from Avatar?”

“I-I-I came from…” Avatar was hesitant. Netto notes how scared she was. Why was she so afraid of spilling the truth?

“You don’t know?” Dr. Cerys asked, “That is fine then talk a bit about yourself?”

“Okay, I’m Avatar EXE, I’m a guardian program dedicated to protecting Draco and his vessel, the Aaron, from harm.”

“You mean you were sent here to protect us?” Netto grasped.

“Y-yes, you are the new one?”

“Who created you?” Natsu asked.

“I wish not to answer that,” Avatar replied. “You would not believe me…”

“Why, we trust you,” Netto assured.

“Trust but I barely met you, Aaron,” Avatar pointed out.

“Netto, just call me Netto,” Netto corrected. “Aaron is just a title to me.”

“Right, Netto. Well, everyone, this will be hard to swallow, but I was sent by Chaos, to protect both of you.”

“Chaos, the goddess that is the mother to Draco and Purity? That Chaos!?” Draga blurted out.

“Yes…”

“Wow, I didn’t think that she would actually do that,” Natsu pondered. “Normally, she would leave them to their own devices.”

“So does that mean that you’re Draco and Purity’s younger sibling?” Netto asked. “I mean it would make the most sense.”

“Technically yes, but I would not mind,” Avatar replied.

“Avatar if this is true, did Chaos send any other guardian programs?” Draga asked.

“Yes, I have a twin brother, Epitome,” Avatar replied. “He was sent to watch over Purity and her Zeva.”

“Is there any way to contact your brother to make sure both Purity and her Zeva are okay?” Draga asked, “We’re really worried about their safety and to repair the Ancient Relic of our world.”

“No, when Chaos sent me to this world, I wasn’t given any form of contacting him,” Avatar answered. “But I do know that he is helping them and keeping them safe.”

“At least they are some assurance that your brother is doing his job,” Natsu sighed in relief.

“So, what do we do with Avatar?”

“I’ll keep her,” Netto offered. “I mean Avatar is a girl, right?”

“I am,” Avatar replied.

“Besides, I need a new Navi,” Netto replied.

“I thought you needed time to get a new Navi?” Draga asked, “I heard it from the others.”

“Well, she needs an operator to help with her duties to protect me and I need a NetNavi, so we’re technically killing two birds with one stone,” Netto replied. “Avatar will fulfill her guardian duties and I don’t’ have to worry about getting a new Navi.”

“Really? T-th-thank you, Netto! I’ve never been operated before but I’m nervous,” Avatar thanked.

“You’ll be great, Avatar!” Netto encouraged, “Besides, I’m a great Net Battler, you’re in good hands!”

“Avatar are you okay with being Netto’s NetNavi?” Dr. Cerys asked.

“Of course! Being Netto’s new NetNavi will make sure he’s safe at all times,” Avatar beamed.

“All right, Avatar, from this day on you will be registered as Netto’s new NetNavi,” Dr. Cerys declared. “Here, Netto.” The female scientist gives Netto a brand net PET that is as big as a chocolate bar, but the skin’s design reminds him of the galaxy. “This is the Cosmic PET, a special type of PET that can house NetNavis that are not from this world. It is yours, Netto.”

Netto quickly makes use of it by plugging Avatar out of Dr. Cerys’s computer and into the new PET. It displays the grey Navi on the screen with several icons above and beside her. “It seems that this model has a huge touch screen.”

“Like my tablet?”

“Of course, the icons on the screen seem to give you details on how much money is on your account, info on the battle chips you have, etc.”

“That’s really cool, this seems better than the Link PET.”

“We have been researching into making a PET that will be convenient enough to go through your data with the touch of your finger,” Dr. Cerys explained. “I have another prototype, so you are free to keep it.”

“Really, an experimental new PET just for me, this is cool!” Netto beamed, “I can’t wait to show her and my new PET to the others!”

“Um, Netto,” Avatar uttered from the PET.

“What is it, Avatar?”

“Can we keep my origin a secret?”

“Why?”

“I-I’m afraid if we go public with my origin right away then there will be a lot of people after me,” Avatar confessed.

“I understand, your secret is safe with us,” Netto vowed.

“We’ll try our best to keep it hidden as well,” Draga added. “You’re brand new here and don’t feel comfortable sharing something personal yet. It is understandable on why some people would be uncomfortable with an AI that was sent from a God. We’ll let you decide whether or not you want to spill on your true origins.”

“T-t-thank you,” Avatar smiled. “You’re all so kind, I didn’t think the Aaron, I mean Netto and his comrades were so understanding.”

“But wait, don’t we need to make a very convincing cover story?” Natsu asked.

“I’ll cover for her. Let’s say, I created Avatar to test something about decision-making,” Dr. Cerys replied.

“That is true, you did make NetNavis via commission before,” Draga pondered.

“But what happens if Avatar gets damaged?”

“Do not worry, I did a full scan on her and I got her blueprints. If she ever gets damaged or near deletion, I will restore her to full health.” Dr. Cerys assured, “Even though I was unable to do a full memory scan, I do have access to other areas. She seems to have some very interesting abilities.”

“What type of abilities?”

“For one thing, she has two default weapons that appear to be custom-made. Her first weapon is an axe that functions similarly to a Wide Sword Battle Chip,” Dr. Cerys explained. “Her second weapon allows her to throw multiple knives in battle which is similar to the Triple Lance. However, her abilities are focused on physical manifestation. She can freely enter and exit both our world and the cyber world at will.”

“A-are you serious?!” Natsu blurted.

“That’s not all, apparently, once she manifested in the real world, she can copy the DNA of any person and add it to her personal database. Plus she can imitate the voice of any human, but it does take a while for her to get the tone right. I was surprised she had them in the first place.”

“That’s pretty amazing…” Draga commented, “To think Chaos would create something so complex into a NetNavi.”

“Avatar can you come to the real world?”

“Of course,” Avatar replied. In a flash, she was instantly in the real world.

“T-this is amazing!” Dr. Cerys marveled. “To think Chaos would make substation so groundbreaking and marvelous.”

“Do you think this cold will be replicated and implemented in other NetNavis?”

“Surprisingly yes,” Dr. Cerys replied. “Though I need to go through the approval of my superiors for it to go through. You have no idea how easy it is to abuse this type of technology.”

“Really?”

“Of course, Netto. There are people in this world that would use Avatar’s abilities for very selfish and monetary reasons,” Dr. Cerys explained. “It wouldn’t be fair to her to be used as some sort of tool or product instead of a sentient being.”

“That’s true,” Netto replied. ‘Rockman wouldn’t like that either. Being treated as a tool instead of a living being.’ “Okay, Dr. Cerys, I’ll take good care of her.” Avatar suddenly returns to her PET out of her own volition. “Huh? That’s odd, I didn’t plug her out. She just came back on her own.”

“Yes, that’s the scary thing, Netto. She has something equivalent to free will.” Dr. Cerys responded, “In a worst-case scenario, she should betray you even if she wasn’t under the influence of anything evil.”

“W-what?”

“Netto, relax…I won’t betray you, since it is my duty to protect you.” Avatar assured, “I swear by digital core; I will not harm you.”

“O-okay, I believe you,” Netto acknowledged.

“Really, that quick? Man, Netto you are forgiving,” Draga commented.

“But she was honest, she really meant it,” Netto protested.

“If you say so,” Natsu doubted.

“It is okay to keep this secret under wraps?” Draga asked, “They will find out eventually.”

“Don’t worry, I will downplay it in my report,” Dr. Cerys assured.

- East Area [Eulalia Ice Cream Shop] -

After visiting Dr. Cerys and obtaining Avatar, Draga suggested heading to this ice cream shop that was family-owned. This was the first time, Netto entered this shop. The chosen colors of white and beige mixed quite well with the bright turquoise; it gave the entire place a very calming experience.

“So, Netto, what flavor do you want?”

“Um, let’s see…” Netto looked up and was overwhelmed by the amount of options. The Common section was simple enough as it only offered three flavors, vanilla, chocolate, and strawberry. However, the Unique and International Specialty had way too many in his opinion. Seasonal had only a few as it changes every season. Since summer hasn’t started yet, Matcha Green Tea and Rose flavors are still on display.

“Are you having trouble deciding?”

He looks up and sees a female employee wearing a blue and white striped visor hat, a light blue tee shirt with the company’s logo, khaki shorts, and a pink apron with an ice cream pattern on it.

“I recommend trying the Cookie Dough or Blue Moon*?”

“In that case, I’ll take Blue Moon then,” Netto answered.

“One scoop of Blue Moon ice cream coming right up,” the employee replied. She takes out a silver scooper, dips it in lukewarm water, and scoops up the sky-blue ice cream onto a waffle cone. “Here you go.” She gives the newly created treat to the bandana brunette.

“One scoop of Twist – Vanilla and Strawberry,” Draga requested.

“One scoop of Rose for me.”

The employee quickly creates and serves the two girls’ orders. Once everyone got their cold treats, they went to sit at the far corner of the shop next to the window.

“Okay, so how do we introduce Avatar to everyone else?” Natsu asked. Mira and Avatar were sitting on their respective operators’ shoulders as they keenly listened to their conversation.

“We could tell them Auntie created Avatar and gave her to Netto as a gift,” Draga suggested. “That’s the cover story that we’ll go with until Avatar is ready to reveal her true origins.”

“What do you think Avatar? Sounds good?”

“Y-yeah, thank you…” Avatar thanked.

The sound of the ice cream shop door opening caught the trio off-guard and they looked up to see who the new customers were. It turns out to be Aimi and Briana walking into the shop.

“Hello, Auntie Pamina!” Aimi addressed to the female employee.

“Oh, Aimi, nice to see you! Odd, where are Aile and Ciel?” the employee named Pamina asked. “You usually hang out together.”

“Aile and Ciel were busy today so I asked Briana to hang out instead,” Aimi replied.

“Nice to meet you, Miss Pamina,” Briana greeted.

“Nice to meet you, as well Briana,” Pamina repeated.

Aimi notices the trio sitting in the corner. “Oh, Draga, Natsu, Netto! Hello, I did not see you there!” She happily dashes towards their table and notices Avatar sitting on Netto’s shoulder. “Hello, Netto’s new Navi! I’m Aimi!”

“Oh, hello, Aimi. My name is Avatar,” Avatar responded.

“Dr. Cerys recently created Avatar for Netto as a gift,” Natsu lied.

“Really, that’s so cool!” Aimi replied, “I wish I had a NetNavi…But they’re so expensive these days. I asked my mom but she told me that I’ll get one when I’m older.”

“Well, Aimi taking care of a NetNavi requires some understanding of PET Maintenance and stuff,” Natsu explained.

“Of course, Operators must learn to maintain their PETs and upgrade their NetNavis at least every year or so,” Netto informed.

“Really, but NetNavis are easy to take care of,” Aimi argued. “You don’t need to feed them or anything.”

“That is true but NetNavis have their own personality, especially the custom ones,” Netto explained. “It takes time to get to know and bond with them.”

“Netto, by your explanation are you saying that NetNavis have some sort of sentience that is similar to humans?” Briana deducted.

“When you put it like that, I did have a Navi that Papa made that was a total contrast to me,” Netto explained. “His name was Rockman. I had to get along with him just like any other friend. Which means that NetNavis are your companion not just regular programs.”

“Companion…” Natsu looks at Mira with this sudden revelation. “Now that you mention it, I have been treating Mira like that. Like a digital assistant program, a tool not a friend. Mira, do you look at me like a friend?”

“To be honest, I do,” Mira replied. “I do want to be your friend.”

“Mira…”

“Anyway, nice to meet you, Avatar,” Briana smiled.

“Likewise,” Avatar replied.

“Netto, are you going to show her to the others?” Briana asked.

“Later, I think we had a meeting about the portal at the Alista Beach House?” Netto recollected.

“Of course,” Natsu added. “We have gathered everyone that is aware of Netto’s status as Aaron. They will be waiting for us around 5 P.M.”

“Wait? Netto, you’re the new Aaron, why didn’t you tell us?” Briana asked.

“Whoops, sorry, I forgot to tell you girls,” Netto apologized. “I didn’t want to attract too much attention but yeah, I’m the new Aaron.”

“Aw, why didn’t you tell us sooner?” Aimi complained. “We would’ve kept this secret as well!”

“It’s Netto’s choice,” Draga replied. “You should respect it. Let him reveal his secret in due time, don’t force it out of him.”

“Okay…” Aimi pouted, “But I’ll tell Ciel and Aile!”

“Aimi!” Draga chastised, “What did I say?”

“Everyone?” Avatar asked, unknowingly deflecting the subject.

“Oh, yes, we’re a big but close-knit group,” Draga explained. “You’ll meet them soon at the beach house.”

Suddenly, everyone heard the ice cream machine breaking down. “Are you kidding me? I just got it fixed yesterday,” Pamina complained.

“Auntie, what’s wrong?” Aimi asked. She peeks from the cashier counter connected to the ice cream display counter. Her aunt was frustrated with the machine malfunctioning.

“Oh, the ice cream machine just broke down all of a sudden,” Pamina answered. “It was working well this morning. This machine was brand new, too.”

“Brand new?”

“Right, this ice cream machine was sent by a company that has its own Network for NetNavis to interact.”

“Pamina-san, let me look at the machine’s Network!” Netto offered, “Your machine has a virus.”

“A virus? I didn’t know that machines like this are prone to viruses.”

“Well, if you regularly maintain your machine’s network then it’s less likely to be riddled with viruses,” Netto explained.

“So, how do we get rid of them?” Avatar asked.

“That’s where you come in, Avatar. A NetNavi that engages in deleting viruses is called Virus Busting,” Netto answered. “Oh right, Avatar, this will be your first Net Battle. Luckily, I managed to save some money to buy some Battle Chips.” Netto reaches into his shorts pocket and takes out three chips, a Long Sword, a Mini Bomb, and a MetGuard. “We’ll fix the machine in no time.”

“If you insist,” Pamina doubted. She allows Netto into the worker’s area and shows him the machine. “Here’s the port, plug your Navi here.”

“Right, Plug-in! Avatar EXE! Transmission!” Netto cried.

Avatar exits the Cosmic PET and enters the machine’s port via the infrared light.

- Sherbet Cream Network -

As the grey Navi enters the network, she notices that the webpage is filled with ice cream patterns that represent different flavors from around the world. “Alright, I’m in.”

“Okay, Avatar find those viruses and delete them.”

“Got it, now where would those viruses be?” She looks around for a bit until she finds three Mettools wreaking havoc near a floating screen. “Netto, I found them.” Avatar quickly dashes over towards the malicious yellow hard hat viruses. “Hey, you three stop!” The Mettools stop mindlessly pitting the ground and turn their attention to fight the grey Navi. They were now engaged in fighting.

“Battle Chip, Long Sword, Slot-in!” Netto inserted the chip into the battle chip slot on top of the PET. Avatar’s right arm morphs into a sword and quickly destroys one of them. The brunette inserts the next chip, “Battle Chip, Mini Bomb! Slot-in!” A blue small ball with a single, dark blue stripe appears in Avatar’s right hand, instinctively she throws at the second virus. It was instantly deleted. The last one got very angry and as an act of bravado, charged at the grey Navi with its pickaxe risen. This takes Avatar by surprise but Netto retaliates, “Battle Chip, MetGuard! Slot-in!” The last Mettool gets sent by the sudden yellow shield.

“Thank you, Netto! Avatar Slash!” After thanking her operator, she slashes the last one with her axe default weapon.

“All right, all the viruses have been deleted,” Netto declared. “The machine’s network is cleaned!”

“Thank you so much for your help, Netto,” Pamina thanked.

“Nice work, Avatar!” Mira praised. “I came by to help out just in case things get tough, but you seem to have handled yourself very well!”

“You did great on your first Virus Busting run!” Netto added, “Come on, plug out!”

“Right, let’s go back, Mira,” Avatar said.

Mira agreed and both NetNavis returned back to their PETs.

- Alista Beach House -

After Netto fixed the ice cream machine with Avatar’s help, he was rewarded with a 40% discount coupon for every ice cream flavor. He was grateful for her generosity and decided to use it before his big trip. Once 5 P.M. hit, Netto, Draga, and Natsu bid farewell to Aimi and Briana as they head to the beach house to discuss about further plans for their journey once the portal opens on June 22^nd. The people present were Angel, Ruby, Frost, Henshin, Stacy, Bulleta, R.C., Aeon, and Isla.

But first were the introductions.

“Everyone, this is Avatar EXE! My new NetNavi!”

“Whoa, she looks so cool!” Isla commented.

“She reminds me of a knight,” Henshin added.

“Where did she come from?” Stacy asked.

“Dr. Cerys created her; she was given as a gift to him,” Natsu replied.

“Nice to meet you, Avatar!” Radioman greeted. “I’m Radioman, Aeon’s NetNavi. That is Amaranth EXE but she prefers to be called Amar.” He was referring to Isla’s NetNavi. Avatar was most impressed by the visor design displaying Amar’s eyes.

“Nice to meet you all,” Avatar added. “I admit it’s a bit overwhelming meeting all of your operators and their friends.”

“Don’t sweat it, we’re all cool with each other,” Radioman assured. “We’ll give you as much time as you need to blend in.”

“Okay, now that everyone is settled, we need to get down to business,” Bulleta reminded. “Draga, you called us all her about the portal opening correct? You told us that you went to Dr. Cerys's workplace and she already informed her superiors about the interdimensional portal. What did they say?”

“The fabled portal will be monitored by a team during the Summer Solstice Festival. They will be discreet about it.”

“So, the government knows about the interdimensional portal opening?” Stacy commented, “Let’s just hope this doesn’t end in a war.”

“This is understandable, but I have a feeling that things moving forward are not going to be that bad.” Draga hoped, “R.C. you did bring those books and articles from the library, correct?”

“Yes, when Natsu went to help Dr. Cerys with her Dimensional Area prototype, I went down to work and gathered as much information I could,” R.C. replied. “Netto helped tremendously by giving a more concrete description of the other three dimensions. From the thousand-year journal entries detailing the dimensions, Universe A, C, and D had different technological advancements. In the modern day, Universe A is similar to us but there’s no magic and instead replaced with mostly technology, especially with the help of the PET and NetNavis. Universe D was a straight-up war zone due to a huge conflict between two powerful cybernetic beings called Gregar and Falzar. Nix is probably occupied there along with Purity and the Zeva from Draco’s accounts. The only universe we don’t have much knowledge on is Universe C, but it seemed to be the most advanced in terms of technology.”

“So, if we were sent to Universe D, we need to prepare some supplies?”

“Don’t worry, I have some survival skills I learned on the streets and from uncle,” Bulleta assured. “It is better if we prepared and we should pack lightly. Who knows what happens if we end up there.”

“As the group continued to banter about the preparations for their big interdimensional trip, Avatar was in deep thought. ‘So they have been preparing all this time? For the portal opening on June 22^nd, they must have been prepping for months.’

“Hey, Avatar?” Mira confided.

“Yes, Mira?”

“We want to show you something, but after meeting.”

Avatar was curious about what was Mira and the other NetNavis going to show her.

- West Area [Cerys Residence (Hermione Network)] -

After the meeting, Netto took Natsu, Isla, and Aeon back to the Cerys Beach House with Draga and Angel in tow.

“So, what do you all want to show me that requires your operators?” Avatar asked.

“You see, our operators have our home page or HPs for short,” Radioman explained. “Since we don’t have a central network yet, the only option we have is sharing our operator’s HPs or when we all enter a small network like a personal computer or the television.

“Wait, you guys don’t have a central network here?” Netto gasped. “No server network for NetNavis to roam freely? No Universe B version of Internet City?”

“I’m afraid we don’t have something like that here, Netto,” Mira answered. “The only place we can wander is either our Operator's PCs and/or laptops, but central networks due exist. They’re not available to the public yet.”

In a world full of magic, but no central place for NetNavis to freely roam. Netto felt bad as they had no way to interact with others of their kind. It feels lonely not sure if you’re the only one or not.

“Here, this is Natsu’s HP Code,” Mira offered. Avatar thanked Mira for the gift and looked at the code. It was cubic and glowed pink and green.

“So how does it work?”

“Choose a spot to put the HP Code Link on and a transport tile will appear,” Amar instructed.

Avatar chooses a spot that is far away and places the HP Code on the bottom. It transformed into a mat that covered one tile on the PC and showcased an open book and a cup of tea beside it.

“And that’s how you add an HP Code to your computer,” Mira smiled. “Once you obtained someone’s HP code, you can add it to your PC for easy access.”

“That’s pretty cool and convenient,” Avatar commented. She was suddenly bombarded with Radioman and Amar gifting her their HP Codes copies into her hands. Aeon’s HP Code was yellow and grey while Isla’s was purple and green. “T-t-thank you, I’ll add these later.”

All of the NetNavis then plug out from the PC and return to their respective operators’ PETs.

Netto, Draga, and Angel say goodbye to everyone as they depart for their homes to rest for the night.

EXTRA:

Avatar Reference Sheet

Chapter Text

During the time she spent with her new operator, Avatar was still curious about his life. She knows that she was sent to protect him from those who would try to harm and use him. However, this was her first time being paired with an operator. Plus she is still getting used to being dependent on him for more weapons and defensive moves via Battle Chips. She had a feeling that Netto would be a handful, due to a few factors.

One, Netto has been recently diagnosed with Generalized Anxiety Disorder. He had gotten it from participating in the Process of Discovery Trial, a series of tests for people to unlock their hearts and awaken their magical powers. However, he is undergoing a mixture of CBT Treatment and taking Benzo medication to alleviate his symptoms. She had to do more research about his condition online and grasp the brief summary of this mental disease. Apparently, some of the symptoms were persistent worry over several areas that were out of proportion to the impact of the events, perceiving situations and events as threatening even when they aren’t, difficulty handling uncertainty, etc. Netto may seem like a normal, cheerful, and social boy, but he can crack under pressure if presented with a situation that he may find distressing even if it is non-threatening.

However, he seems to be developing healthy ways of coping with his new condition. He’s been taking art classes and learning how to build stuff. Netto happily showed her some of the drawings he had learned from his art class.

Avatar understands that the human brain is a complex organ, how it processes memories, thoughts, and dreams wasn’t fully understood.

Two, Netto’s contract with Draco. Once June 22^nd hits, Netto will be going on a long journey to save Purity and her Zeva vessel from Nix’s clutches. This means that Netto would also be putting himself in danger, as he was the Aaron. If he were to be captured by Nix, then it would be all over and the safety of the four dimensions would be at risk. At least, his friends were helping him how to control his Aaron powers. Apparently, out of the four dimensions. B was the only one that had records about the Legend of Dragon and Purity. The information was probably lost to time in the others.

Finally, Netto’s mental struggles in terms of belonging. She does know that Netto came from Universe A, but is torn about where to stay. His old home where is his family and old friends are but he was declared dead, which is complicated. Or stay in Universe B with his new friends. That is something that Netto has to decide by himself, and she will accept his choice.

After the events of the Cosmic Spire malfunction and meeting up with his friend group to discuss plans on dimensional traveling, Netto was relaxing in his room as he was drawing on his table again using an art program. Avatar was quietly sitting inside the Cosmic PET held up by its built-in stand.

“Ava?” Netto asked. He looks up from his drawing tablet to face the quiet silver NetNavi. “Do you want to do something today like surfing the internet?”

She was caught off-guard by Netto’s question and straightened up. “You’re asking me?”

“Well, you seem bored and you want to do something,” Netto reasoned. He gets up from his bed and goes to his desk to where Avatar was stationed.

“By the way, Netto, why did you call me Ava?” Avatar deflected with curiosity.

“Oh, I thought it was a cool nickname,” Netto replied. “Ava is a short version of Avatar. Just like Rock is short for Rockman.”

“Do you call your old NetNavi that?”

“Sometimes,” Netto replied. “So, do you want to surf the Net, today? That’s what Navis would do back in my old home.”

“W-well, the only way to access the Internet is through the computer but should we use Dr. Cerys’s computer? I do not want to burden it.”

“Don’t worry, Dr. Cerys gave me, Draga, and Angel permission to use it,” Netto assured. “She has a brand new PC that she uses for work and other stuff. The one that the girls and I are using is an old PC. Come on, let’s go explore the Internet, we can do some virus busting on the side.” He picks up the PET and goes downstairs to where the PC is. “Plug-in, Avatar, Transmission!”

- Hermione Network -

Avatar was quickly transmitted into the Hermione Network; she notes that there wasn’t much detail on the webpage except it was colored light blue, yellow, and red. However, what caught her eye or visor was how messy it was. “Hmm? This PC seems to be used a lot, judging by how cluttered it is.” Avatar noted, “Though I’m not sure which one belongs to you, Draga, and Angel.” The webpage was disorganized and messy due to the various pictures, website links, and documents littering all over the walls and floor. “What a mess… Netto, is there any way to organize all of this?”  

“Oh, right. Sorry, Draga and Angel have been using this more than me so we didn’t have time to sort out everything,” Netto explained. ‘Rockman also complained that I don’t clean and organize my PC as often.’ He browsed one of the documents and noticed it was one of Draga’s notes on the history surrounding the Draco and Purity Legend. “Ah, I got it. We should create separate folders for each user on the hard drive. One for Draga-chan, one for Angel, and one for me. I’ll help you sort everything out.”

“Sounds simple to make and easy to sort out,” Avatar comments. Netto right-clicks on the screen and creates three separate folders with the users' names. Avatar sets them on the ground and gets to work on sorting out each file and website link. “So, Netto what do Draga and Angel like to do? I mean what things interest them the most.”

“Um, let’s see. I know Draga is into history, especially around the Draco and Purity Legend. Angel is a Wind-Type User and she did mention she wanted to be a pilot someday,” Netto recollected. “She was looking at applications at pilot school or something.”

“Okay, so the history website links will go to Draga’s folder, and any pilot school applications go to Angel’s folder. Anything else that the two girls enjoy?”

“Draga has been learning to cook!” Netto recollected, “Ruby-chan has been helping her a bunch. So if you see any recipe files send that to her folder. Angel though, she's been saving a lot of pictures online that detail about clouds in different colors. She even saved some pictures that have depictions of what weather would look like from other planets.”

Avatar goes back and sees a few website links detailing new recipes such as desserts and hardy, healthy meals. She was interested as Draga was getting into making Japanese food from scratch. One was how to make sweet Japanese Fruit sandwiches. The pictures depicted triangular-shaped sandwiches with slides of fruit and cream between the slices of bread. Avatar quickly tosses them into the Draga folder.

The grey Navi then looks for any cloud aesthetic pictures. She found a bunch in a separate file. Most of them had a pastel color vibe to them with shades of yellow and pink. She even found a dark blue and black painting of what would be like to be in Neptune’s atmosphere. She inserts them into the Angel folder.

Lastly was Netto’s folder, she saved it for last since his digital footprint was smaller than the others. First was the website links that focus on human anatomy. Second, the saved pictures of how to draw buildings of skyscrapers or tutorials on how to draw various plants such as hydrangea flowers. Third were real-life references of what he was interested in drawing at the time. However, she was a bit surprised that she found some website links that detail Netto’s General Anxiety Disorder. By the date in which the link was created, this was probably before Avatar was here. She quickly deposited it into the Netto folder and cleaned up any cache data left behind. “Phew! Alright, Netto, the webpage is nice and clean.”

“Alright, let me get those folders and put them in the Users Folder on the hard drive.” Netto moves the mouse and clicks the folder icon on the bottom. It brings up a separate window and Netto clicks all three folders by holding the Shift key. He then drags all of them into the Users Folder. Once that was done, he clicked on the icon and it brought up the named icons. First, he clicked on Draga’s folder and saw a bunch of website links, pictures, and documents. He creates three separate folders and renames them to Links – Dra, Pictures – Dra, and Documents – Dra. He then drags the respective files into the correct folder. He does the same thing to Angel’s folder and quickly makes three new folders and renames them with the same Links, Pictures, and Documents only with the Ang after the dash. Finally, his own folder, unlike Draga and Angel’s. After he finished dumping all the necessary files into the correct folders, Netto made two subfolders in his Pictures – Net and named them drawing tutorials and real-life references. “Okay, all done!”

“Wow, Netto that was pretty fast.”

“To be honest, I would surf the internet a lot back home,” Netto replied. “Rockman would travel a lot in the world wide web.”

“Okay, now that we are done with PC clean up, what should we look up on the Net?”

“Not sure…”

“Well, we can research about obscure ice cream flavors,” Avatar suggested.

“Seriously, that’s the best you can up with?” Netto doubted.

“Well, I don’t see you come up with anything better,” Avatar argued. “Besides I am curious about unique flavors after visiting the ice cream shop yesterday.”

“If you say so,” Netto commented.

“Let’s look up on the search engine and type the term obscure ice cream flavors.” Avatar suggested, “I’m sure we could find something.” Netto opens up a window and follows Avatar’s simple instructions. “How about this website?” She points to the third website listed.

“Sure, why not,” Netto replied. The website link led to an article with the title ‘List of 20 strange ice cream flavors to try before you die’. “Is this how we’re going to be spending the day? Looking up unnecessary information?”

“What else are we supposed to do? You asked me if we can surf the internet together and you didn’t give a clear objective on what to do there. So, I chose my own.” Avatar reasoned, “Look, Wasabi-flavored ice cream is on this list.”

“Huh, I have tried that flavor,” Netto recollected.

“What did it taste like?”

“It had a pretty distinct flavor; it tasted similar to horseradish or hot mustard,” Netto replied. “Dekao dared me to try it and it wasn’t too bad.”

“Who’s Dekao?”

“Dekao is my childhood friend,” Netto replied. “He lives in my hometown, Akihara, back in my original home dimension.”

“So, you’re in the same position as me,” Avatar commented. “Two people that came from different worlds are taken to a brand new one to start a new life.”

“On the bright side, we’re living our best new life together,” Netto beamed. Avatar can’t help but smile at his optimism. “So, Ava, if you came into the real world by will then can you change your appearance to be more human-like? Like Iris-chan? She was a NetNavi as well that can go between the real world and the cyber world with the aid of a Copyroid disguised as a real human.”

“Of course, my ability – DNA Duplication can copy the DNA of any human and use all the available genes from their DNA sequence.” Avatar explained, “So if I copy your DNA sequence, I could take on your physical appearance but from that same genotype, I can inherit your father’s hairstyle or your mother’s.”

“Really, I didn’t know that.” Netto pondered, “Though human DNA is very complex, but I am curious about how we can take it. Let’s try it!”

“But we haven’t finished scrolling the list,” Avatar pointed out.

“But I’m bored…” Netto whined, “I know I would surf the network with Rockman to search up stuff but at least it was stuff I’m interested in.”

“Right…” Avatar doubted.

"It's a shame though, I wish there was an Internet City-like network here," Netto pondered. "I wonder what the NetNavis do for fun since they cannot meet up in person?"

"There's always video chat," Avatar suggested.

"Yeah but still..." 

“Hey Netto, chatting with Avatar?” Draga asked. Netto jumps back in surprise and whirls around to see Draga and Angel standing behind him. “Oh, you organized all of our files. That’s pretty nice of you and Avatar.”

“Yeah, I didn’t know you were that proficient at the computer,” Angel added.

“Oh, it’s nothing,” Netto said abashedly. “So uh, do you two need me for something?”

“We’re going to Chroma Juice Bar, want to join us?”

“Sure, there’s nothing interesting today,” Netto beamed. “Oh, can we stop by the Arcade, I want to Net Battle some more with Ava!”

“Ava?”

“It’s Avatar’s nickname,” Netto replied. “She didn’t mind getting addressed by that name. Come on, let’s go, I can’t wait to meet everyone else!” Netto then plugs out Ava from the PC and shuts it down. He then joins Draga and Angel to go to their destination.

- Chroma Juice Bar -

As Netto entered the bar, the place was crowded. However, Netto noticed a couple of faces that he interacted with and befriended before was there.

“This place sure is crowded…” Avatar commented. She projected herself as a small hologram as she scanned the entire area. It was very packed today.

“It’s fine, we’re just going to meet up with our usual group and relax,” Netto assured.

“Everybody seems so laid back, is it always this peaceful?”

“Of course,” Draga replied. “You’ll enjoy hanging out with the others, especially their Navis!”

“Hi, everyone!” Netto smiled. He went around the bar talking to everyone he knew. Avatar didn’t realize how sociable he was. The only people that had NetNavis that she managed to find were Savannah, Joan, and Spectra.

From her observations, Savannah seems to be a very enigmatic person with how aloof she seems to be. Her NetNavi, Crystalman was just as aloof as her. At times, he would speak normally but other times he would spout out vague riddles or quotes from old politicians or famous books like The Great Gatsby or Grapes of Wrath. She seems very introverted as she doesn’t seem interested in interacting with the other people in the juice bar. Crystalman informs Avatar that she has an interest in ancient magic history, tarot card readings, and a huge crystal collection. Avatar pondered if Savannah had a secret room to store all of her crystals and other mineral samples.

Joan seems like a very quiet person and seems more aloof than Savannah. Her Navi, Delia, explains that she used to be livelier and social but changed drastically due to a tragic accident involving the drowning of a close friend of hers named Jerry. The reason why she was avoiding Netto was due to his uncanny similarity to him. She wished she could be friends with him but her trauma and grief were preventing her from being close to him. Delia seems to be a reflection of Joan used to be before Jerry’s death. Lively, spunky, and determined.

Lastly, Spectra is a very sociable person who is a talented artist. She was classmates with both Netto and Joan in Ms. Azami’s drawing class. Reina seems to reflect Spectra in terms of design and personality. Both seem very easy-going, bubbly, and creative.

After examining both behaviors of the operators and their NetNavis, she noticed that most of them imitate each other. A perfect imitation but Avatar was not an emulation of Netto. She could never be and she was okay with it. Avatar already knew that she was different from others. It is bad that an AI recognizes their own faults and is self-aware about it? She should stop thinking about this. Netto seems very accepting of her true nature, but she doesn’t expect others to. Could a NetNavi and their operator function with clashing and opposing personalities? It is possible but highly unlikely and yet she was his new NetNavi; a reserved, aloof, quiet, and observant female Navigator with a sociable, easy-going, and happy-go-lucky male operator. A truly mismatched duo.

“Hey, Netto? I thought you were going to wait for a while to get a new Navi?” Spectra asked.

“Well, Avatar was given to me recently as a gift from Dr. Cerys,” Netto lied.

“Really, a custom Navi for free?” Spectra replied. “Damn, that’s pretty lucky.” Joan quickly got up from her seat when her order was called.

“And she’s still avoiding me…” Netto muttered, “*sigh* It would be nice to get to know her better but since I resemble her dead friend…”

“Don’t worry, too much about it,” Spectra assured. “Give her more time, I know it’s a bit frustrating but Joan has been warming up to you. She knows you’re not purposefully trying to taunt her.”

“Yeah but still…”

“Oh, I see, Bella! Hey, Bella over here!”

Bella happily joined the table that Netto, Spectra, and Joan were sitting at. She sits beside the blonde girl.

“Hello, Netto,” Bella greeted. “How are you doing?”

“I’m doing great today,” Netto replied.

“Oh, I see you have a NetNavi with you,” Bella observed. “Their name?”

“This is Avatar,” Netto introduced. “She’s my new NetNavi. I just got her recently.”

“Hello, Avatar, nice to meet you,” Bella greeted.

“Likewise, Bella,” Avatar replied.

“Hey, since you recently got a Navi maybe we can Net Battle at the arcade later?” Spectra suggested.

“Yeah, I am curious about how Avatar would fight,” Reina added.

“Sorry, I already have someone else in mind to battle,” Netto apologized, “Maybe next time.”

Bella remained quiet through all of this, in reality, she was thinking if she could get a Navi herself. But she was still on the fence about it.

“Hey, Netto after we net battle can I have a drink?” Avatar asked.

“Drink? Oh yeah, I just remember, we haven’t tried that yet,” Netto recalled. “Okay, after our Net Battle session, you can try one.”

“What kind of drink are you talking about, Netto?” Spectra asked.

“She’s probably talking about those cyber drinks that are going to be on the market soon,” Reina replied. “Remember? There was an article for a company called Cyber Delights that is releasing all types of cyber foods and drinks that are said to replicate the taste of real, human food. I’ve seen advertisements all over the Internet about looking for volunteers.”

“Now that you mention it, I think I saw some pop-up advertisements when I was surfing the network with Avatar,” Netto recollected.

‘That’s not what I was talking about,’ Avatar mentally complained. She dares not to voice her correction as she does not want to accidentally reveal her materialization ability. She was relieved that Netto was keeping his end of the deal, though it was a pure stroke of luck that Netto did not spill that fact to them.

- Strelitzia Mall [Breeze Orchid Arcade] -

Avatar was curious about the Net Battle Machine, this is where Net Battles take place.

“All right, thanks Netto, I really appreciate making me your first opponent!” Aeon beamed, “I think I owe you one for helping me pass my Process of Discovery Trial.”

“I should thank you, too,” Netto replied. “You helped me at my worst and Isla-chan as well.”

“Ah, geez, you’ve gotten me all flustered,” Aeon said abashed. “But don’t think I’ll go easy on you!”

“Same here,” Netto beamed. “Plug-in, Avatar! Transmission!”

“Plug-in, Radioman! Transmission!”

- BOA Net Battle Machine Network -

Radioman was curious about how Avatar would battle. This is his first time battling against her. He’ll just see once the grey Navi is in battle. He’ll just see once the grey Navi is in battle.

“Ready, Ava?” Netto asked.

“Ready…” Avatar replied. She was nervous as there was hesitation in her voice. Odd, a NetNavi would be ready to fight against another opponent. A great distraction from the daily grind of being a personal assistant. He had encountered NetNavis before and was nervous to fight another navigator, but after their first battle whether they lost or not, they really enjoyed it.

“Time to warm up with a chorus!” Aeon announced.

“Rarapappa*!” Radioman called. Three trombone-themed viruses appeared but were yellow while one was silver. They start making a cacophony of music which irritates Avatar.

She retaliated by swinging her axe on them but it had no effect.

“What, they’re immune?”

“That’s the power of the Rarapappa Trio!” Aeon explained, “Their music will protect their allies from harm!”

“So, there’s no way to hit them?”

‘Think, how did Isla beat Aeon?’ Netto mentally pondered, ‘I have beaten Rarapappa viruses before. They play music that will affect either the opponents or their allies. Ironically, they don’t benefit from their own music.’

“Go Raramute *! Time to give Avatar something to make her head spin.” Aeon commanded. The giant silver Rarapappa caused Avatar to lose her sight.

“I-I can’t see!” Avatar panicked.

“Oh no, I have to think fast!” Netto quickly fished into his battle chip pouch to look for anything to help his Navi. He found an uncommon chip in his collection. Fujin Racket *, he got this from Angel the other day. “Battle Chip, Fujin Racket!” Slot-in!” A cyan fan with yellow trimmings formed in Avatar’s right hand.

“Avatar, listen to me! Use the Fujin Racket to create a tornado!”

“Are you sure?”

“Yes, do it!”

“Fujin Racket!” Avatar spins around and conjures a makeshift tornado and all the Rarapappa Viruses got sucked up and deleted. She suddenly regains her vision back after their deletion.

“Whoa, that was fast!” Radioman exclaimed.

“I’m not done!” Aeon argued, “Battle Chip, Bronze Fist! Slot-in!”

Radioman charges at Avatar with his newly acquired weapon.

“Battle Chip! MetGuard, Slot-in!” Radioman’s fist collided with a giant yellow helmet. Avatar retaliates and slams him with her axe. The yellow and grey NetNavi was sent flying back. “Battle Chip, Recovery 30, Slot-in!” Radioman’s wounds were instantly healed from that attack.

“Now, that's more like it!” Radioman praised, “You’re getting the hang of it!”

“Uh, thanks?”

“Battle Chip, Fumikomi Cross! Slot-in!”

“Battle Chip, Anti-Sword! Slot-in!”

Avatar tries to make a quick slash but Radioman blocks her attack.

“You’re pretty good!”

“You, too!” Avatar smiled.

A crowd formed around the Net Battle Arena, everyone was hyped and interested in Avatar and Radioman’s fight. Both NetNavis were focused on beating each other. Amongst the crowd were Isla and Amar. They were very invested in the fight as well. To think that Netto’s new NetNavi was getting the hang of Net Battling so quickly. She wonders if Amar will have a new rival soon. Being the Number 1 Net Battler in her hometown was getting boring. The challengers were becoming underwhelming and even Aeon and Radioman were getting stale and predictable. Could Netto and Avatar be at the same level as them?

“Battle Chip, Sword! Slot-in!”

“Battle Chip, Bamboo Lance, Slot-in!”

Both swords clank against each other. Avatar and Radioman were neck in neck. It was getting hard to see who won. It was getting harder to tell who was going to win. Netto silently looks at the battle with fierce determination in his eyes as if there was a way to tip the battle in his favor. He looks back in his battle chip stack and sees three different Bomb battle chips peeking out, Small Bomb *, Cross Bomb, and Big Bomb. The recipe for the Beta Bomb Program Advance. He hesitates, if he uses the Program Advance then Avatar may get hurt. It took a while for him to master Rockman, could he pull it off? In Avatar’s first net battle?

“Gah!” Avatar cried. She suddenly went off-balance during the sword clash with Radioman and got slashed in the process.

“Battle Chip, Mega Cannon! Slot-in!” Aero cried.

“It’s over, Avatar!” Radioman declared as the Mega Cannon charges up.

“No choice, Program Advance! Small Bomb, Cross Bomb, Big Bomb!”

Program Advance Activated! Small Bomb + Cross Bomb + Big Bomb

BETA BOMB

“Beta Bomb!” Avatar responded. She throws a barrage of Mini Bombs at Radioman catching him off-guard. She kept doing it until Radioman was plugged out.

“Radioman has logged out,” a computerized announcement rang out.

Everyone in the crowd was shocked.

“That was unexpected, to think Netto could use it too,” Spectra commented.

“No way, the only other person to achieve a Program Advance was Isla and Amar.” Joan revealed, “How does Netto know about it and use it?”

“Well, I lost again but you gave Radioman quite a surprise,” Aeon commented with a smile. “You and your Navi are full of surprises.”

“I was surprised I managed to pull it through the first time with Avatar,” Netto confessed.

“Wait, are you saying that this is your first time using the Program Advance?” Aeon asked baffled.

“No, I did it plenty of times with Rockman, my old NetNavi,” Netto explained. “Though it took a while for me and him to pull it off.”

“That was wonderful, Netto,” Isla applauded. “I am now interested in Net Battling you with Amar.”

“Actually, Isla, how about another time?” Netto suggested. “Avatar was exhausted after pulling that off.”

“What? But when I used the Program Advance with Amar the first time, it didn’t drain her,” Isla argued. “Net Battle me now!”

“Isla, give Avatar a break!” Aeon denounced. “After I plugged Radioman out, Avatar seemed very exhausted.”

“All right, I’ll relent, but once Avatar is back to full strength, Amar and I will be ready for battle!” Isla replied with determination in her eyes. Netto agreed as once Avatar was well-rested and healed, they’ll be their next challengers.

- West Area [Netto’s Room] -

“Okay, Ava, the coast is clear!” Netto beamed. “You can come out!”

Avatar quickly materialized into the real world.

“I managed to order a Tropical Fruit-Ade and it came with some complimentary Star Fruit pieces.” He took out the fruit concoction that had a blend of red and yellow fruit juices. The grey Navi hesitantly grasps the drink and takes a sip after inserting the striped straw.

“How does it taste?”

“It’s a bit sour but overall sweet,” Avatar criticized. “It’s very good!” She happily sips the drink and takes a bit out of one of the Star Fruit pieces. After a few chews, her mouth scrunchs from the flavor. “It’s sweet and sour like the drink itself, but there’s a tarty or bitter aftertaste.”

Netto was confused and took a bit out of another Star Fruit piece. “It tastes fine to me. The flavor reminds me of pineapple, kiwi, and grapefruit.” ‘Wait, can Navis eat and drink regular foods made by humans? Chaos must have done a really good job to make Avatar consume it with no consequences.’ Is it possible for this function to be replicated and installed on other NetNavis? He was curious if Rockman or other NetNavis could enjoy the pleasure of tasting different foods as humans do. He could imagine the blue Navi happily drinking coffee or eating Mama’s spaghetti. He looks back at Avatar happily enjoying her drink. He realized how much he had taken the pleasure of savoring food for granted since NetNavis don't normally experience the joys of tasting real human food. He hoped Avatar could share her experiences with other NetNavis. “Ava, let’s sign up for sampling Cyber Delights drinks before their release to the public! I heard they get paid.”

“Really? If that is the case then I am curious and interested to try them out,” Ava replied. She looked down at her empty glass. ‘Is this what it’s like to be with an operator? To share the joy and sorrows of the simplicities and complications of life? Though is it okay to share it with someone who already had a NetNavi waiting for him? What would his old NetNavi think? Would he accept me or reject me for taking away his operator?’

Chapter Text

Inside Beach Flora Library, Natsu was quietly reading by herself at a single table piled with books. Her pink eyes were glued to an underwater fantasy novel. Mira is quietly sitting on top of her operator’s small pile of books, watching some online videos on a floating screen in hologram form. Both enjoy the quiet and peaceful atmosphere of their library. The plastic imitation trees and fake birds gave the library a very mystical fairytale vibe for the two girls to enjoy their quiet time. As Natsu takes a sip from her strawberry, Matcha drink, she hears footsteps approach her table. The blonde, spectacled girl looks up and smiles as she recognizes the person.

“Sherrice, it’s been a while!” Natsu beamed.

“Hello, Natsu,” Sherrice greeted with elegant grace.

Both girls were classmates back in elementary school but were sent to different middle schools. Sherrice was sent abroad due to her excellent grades and bilingual skills. Her light blonde hair, pale skin, and blue eyes were very striking and memorable to Natsu, especially her headpiece, the Lon Stone. It was a gift from her mother that helps her decipher ancient languages that were lost to time.

“I see that you are wearing your school uniform from abroad,” Natsu commented.

“It’s mandatory to wear the uniform at my private school,” Sherrice reasoned. “But to be honest, I enjoy the colors of this uniform. It matches the tights I barely used.”

“Is that why you wear it all the time?” Natsu asked. “I mean you did like wearing proper clothes when we were younger. So how’s Rideman doing?”

“I’m doing quite well miss!” A cowboy-themed NetNavi replied. He appears on Sherrice’s shoulder with a big grin. Yup, he was the same as Natsu remembered. A brown helmet that resembles a cowboy hat, armor that resembles a poncho, and chains around his waist. His emblem resembles a horseshoe on a black background and a border ring.

“Hey, Rideman, how are you doing?” Mira asked, “How’s school life abroad.” She looks up from watching her online video.

“Doing fine, I met a lot of new NetNavis there,” Rideman replied. “What are you watching?”

“How to make passion fruit tea tutorial video,” Mira replied.

“That’s pretty random,” Rideman commented. “We don’t even consume human drinks.”

“A girl Navi can dream,” Mira said. “I wonder what a mimosa tastes like.”

“Pretty sure that have age restrictions on those,” Rideman noted. “I know NetNavis don’t have a real age since we don’t get old in terms of appearance so.” The conversation ends in a pretty awkward silence.

Sherrice clears her throat and deflects to a different topic. “S-so, what book are you reading?”

“A short but interesting underwater fantasy novel,” Natsu answered. “So, what brings you back to Beach Flora Town?”

“I’m here to see the Ancient Relic,” Sherrice bluntly said.

“You mean the one at Oasis Road?” Natsu gasped.

“Yes, I want to visit that location to study it for research purposes,” Sherrice explained. “I also heard that the new Aaron has awakened here.”

“So, you’ve heard. I’m sorry, Sherrice but we need permission from Arline, the Ancients History Museum’s curator.” Natsu declined, “She has guards stationed there for protection and to prevent vandalism. It is currently off limits for normal civilians.”

“Is she available right not?”

“I’m afraid not, she went out for a conference and won’t be back ‘til next week.”

“I see,” Sherrice was disappointed that the curator was unavailable. “Wait, what about the Aaron? Can I visit this person?”

“The person’s name is Netto,” Natsu added.

“Netto, never heard of him before,” Sherrice commented.

“He’s a new resident here,” Natsu explained. “Dr. Cerys has temporary custody of him until we can contact either his parents or surviving relatives.”

“Really? Poor guy, where was he found?” Sherrice asked.

“At the abandoned train station,” Natsu replied. “That’s all I can tell you without Netto’s consent.”

This piqued Sherrice’s interest, what was so intriguing about this Netto person? 

- West Area [Netto’s Room] -

Netto was sketching on his tablet. The drawing was a simple cup of coffee on a table with some tropical flowers on the side. Suddenly, there was a notification from his PET.

“Netto, it’s a battle request from Isla.” Avatar informed, “Should I reply with a yes or no?”

He looks up from his battle and also reads the request.

“Are you feeling better, Ava? Are you at 100%?”

“Yes, I’m fully operational,” Avatar explained. “I do not feel any fatigue.”

“That’s let’s battle her and her Navi!” Netto declared. He quickly replied with a yes and a reply message was added.

I’ll be waiting for you at the Arcade :)

- Isla

Netto did chuckle a little bit at the smiley face that Isla left behind, regardless he got ready to go out.

After saying his quick goodbyes to Draga and Angel, he heads straight to the arcade where Isla and Amar are waiting for him.

- East Area [Strelitzia Mall (Breeze Orchid Arcade)] -

Netto heads to the same battle machine that he beat Aeon and Radioman yesterday.

“Well, Netto, I am impressed,” Isla praised. “As much as I believe that your victory with Aeon is a fluke, your skill to easily pull off a Program Advance tells me otherwise.”

“I heard from the others that you always beat Aeon-kun because of your utilization of the Program Advance.” Netto pondered, “When did you learn it?”

“To be honest, it was by complete accident,” Isla replied. “A few years ago, my winning streak wasn’t as good. But one day when I was battling Radioman, it just happened. The technique was amazing. We mastered the Program Advance within a year or two after that. And that’s why I’m considered the best Net Battler in this town.”

“Amazing, but for me it took me a few days to pull it off and even longer to master,” Netto replied.

“Are you serious?!” Isla gasped incredulously, “You’re more talented than I thought! How did it take you a few days?”

“Practice and a bit of luck,” Netto replied. “Although teamwork and cooperation with my old NetNavi did help. Maybe that’s why I unlocked and master the Program Advance so easily, I think.”

“That makes little sense but nevertheless, let’s battle!”

“Plug-in, Avatar! Transmission!”

“Plug-in, Amar! Transmission!”

- BOA Net Battle Machine Network -

Just like last time, Avatar was inside the battle machine’s network. Her opponent was Amar, Isla’s NetNavi. Her full registered, Navigator name was Amaranth, but it was shorten to Amar for convenience sake.

Amar looks at Avatar, Radioman mentioned that she was hesitant to battle. However, Avatar looked ready to battle just like any other NetNavi. Just one battle was enough to get her hooked and excited. Regardless, she can’t wait to send this one packing just like the countless before her.

“Battle Chip, Risky Honey! Slot-in!” Isla cried.

Amar’s right arm morphs into a beehive and seemingly thousands of bee viruses come swarming out. Avatar had to brace herself with the endless barrage.

“Ah, Avatar is losing health! Netto cried as he looks at her HP count. It was taking small chunks but add that up with the amount of bees, the damage was very potent. “Battle Chip, Fujin Racket! Slot-in!”

Avatar tries to clear the huge bee swarm with her weapon but it wasn’t enough. “I’m starting to hate this!”

“Hold on, Avatar!” Netto pleaded, “I’ll try to find a way to get rid of them.” ‘Think, what type is this chip? It’s not fire and water type. Elec type is out of question. My best guess is either obstacle, terrain or wood.’

“Battle Chip, Stone Cube! Slot-in!”

Avatar quickly hides behind the stone cube but the bees manage to find her and easily swarm her.

“No? Battle Chip, Invisible, slot-in!”

Avatar quickly vanished which confused the bee swarms for a bit.

“Think, what type is it. It’s not obstacle nor terrain maybe wood?” Netto pondered. He fishes out a Flame Sword and slots it in. Avatar quickly slices all of the bees and the hive in a few slices.

“Damn it, Amar is weak to fire.” Isla cursed. ‘NetNavis with types will have a boost when paired with elemental chips that match them.’ “Battle Chip, Bamboo Sword!”

Amar’s arm morphs into an orange blade.

Both she and Avatar clash with their swords. Amar managed to get a few slices through around Avatar’s abdomen, right bicep, and left thigh. However, she wasn’t unscathed as there were some slice marks above the chest area, left arm and, right lower calf.

“I must say, your Operator is very skilled if he managed to quickly identify and guess with chips and their types are with a little time,” Amar commented.

“Your operator is as well,” Avatar replied. “She quickly used a chip that takes chunks of HP away at a time.”

“Battle Chip, Flame Tower, Slot-in!” Netto cried.

“Battle Chip, Aqua Tower, Slot-in!” Isla countered.

Avatar slammed her hand down to conjure a Flame Tower but Amar countered with her Aqua Tower. Both clash and disappeared when they contacted.

“Battle Chip, Sword! Slot-in!”

“Battle Chip, Anti-Sword! Slot-in”

Amar quickly blocks Avatar’s sword attack.

The battle intensifies as both operators look at the battle with intense concentration. The battle was fierce but it seemed long and arduous. Throughout it, Netto and Isla’s resources slowly dwindled as the two continue to clash. They noticed that their chip folders were getting smaller. They need to end it soon or their whole battle chip sack will be empty and the NetNavis will be exhausted.

“PROGRAM ADVANCE!” Netto and Isla cried.

“Corn Shot, Triple Slot-in!”

“Spreader, Triple Slot-in!”

Program Advance Activated! Spreader X3

HYPER BURST

“Corn Party!”

“Hyper Burst!”

Both of Avatar’s arms formed a machine gun with multiple barrels and she fired. Amar’s side was filled with Bomb Corn Viruses as they randomly shot their pallets leaving behind patches of grass in their wake.

- Breeze Orchid Arcade -

The huge explosion from both Navis' program advances caused the machine to frizzle. Isla was the first to notice it.

“Oh, shoot! The Machine!”

It starts to shake uncontrollably after feeling the full force from the execution of two Program Advances.

“Warning, machine malfunction! Immediate emergency, plug-out!” the machine warned.

Both Avatar and Amar were plugged out without warning.

The machine then turns off once they are gone.

“Uh, oh we overloaded the machine…”

“You think…Ava, who won? You or Amar?”

“I’m afraid it’s a stalemate.” Avatar replied, “We couldn’t see anything and the machine activated the emergency plug-out protocol, forcing both of us to return to the PET.”

“Are you serious?! Does that mean it’s a draw?!” Isla cried in bafflement.

Netto looks back at the broken machine, ‘I hope we don’t have to pay for it.’ The repairs of the machine were expensive. He knows this because in the past he accidently broke it a few times when using a Program Advance on his opponent, mostly with Enzan and Blues. This was a common occurrence with older machines.

“Wow, that machine is fried,” Natsu commented.

“Indeed and to see two Program Advances clash together,” Sherrice added. “What an amazing sight to behold.”

The two competitors glanced to see Natsu and a pigtailed blonde girl wearing a red school uniform standing in front of them. They also witnessed the aftermath of the Net Battle Machine malfunction.

“Oh, shit!” Isla cursed, “Natsu, please do not tell the staff, we broke the machine!”

“It’s not my fault your Program Advances fried it,” Natsu argued.

“I can’t afford the repairs for this,” Isla whined. “My parents are going to be so mad.”

Netto subconsciously scratches the back of his head in guilt and anxiety. He and Isla didn’t mean to break the equipment.

“Ah, it’s fine,” a mechanic assured. He walks towards the broken-down machine and starts to tinker with it. Netto notes that he was wearing teal overalls and a worker hat in a matching color. “We were thinking of replacing the thing. The higher-ups had finally got their hands on purchasing the latest model but the manager of the arcade said it wasn’t necessary since we already have a function one. You accidently breaking the thing was a blessing in disguise.”

“Um, who are you?” Netto asked.

“Oh, I’m Calypso, the arcade repair guy,” the mechanic replied. “I’m the main technician here but my secret passion is Net Battling. I would usually play with the other kids during my breaks. This is my Navi, Denim EXE!” A teal and yellow standard Navi wearing armor similar to denim clothing appeared on his right shoulder. The Navi happily waves at Netto. “You kids sure did a lot of damage on this machine.”

“We are so sorry, please don’t charge us with the damages!” Netto pleaded.

“It’s all right, I’ll tell the manager that the machine broke down due to a CPU malfunction,” Calypso assured.

“Well, that’s a relief,” Isla added. She notices the red-clothed student’s odd headpiece and quickly recognizes her. “Hey, aren’t you, Sherrice? Natsu’s old classmate.”

“I’m surprised you remember me,” Sherrice commented.

“Vaguely, Natsu would mention you from time to time,” Isla recalled. “It wasn’t hard to put together since you do always wear that weird headband.”

“This weird headband is the Lon Stone; it helps me understand ancient languages,” Sherrice corrected. “I’m here to visit and study both the Ancient Relic and the Aaron.”

“You man that place we visited at least a month ago?” Isla clarified, “Nah, that place has been inactive for such a long time. We tried to reactivate it but we need the Zeva to fix it up. But the Zeva is nowhere to be found in our world, at least to our knowledge.”

“Really, that’s a damn shame,” Sherrice commented. “It would be nice to study it. To understand those from the past and how they used it. Since I am unable to study the Ancient Relic perhaps an interview with the new Aaron would suffice.” She turns her attention towards Netto. He felt very uncomfortable as she came too close for his comfort. “So, Netto, I heard from Natsu that you’re a new resident here and you’re the new Aaron. So what’s it like living here? How do you become the Aaron? Are you enjoying your duties? Are -”

“Okay, Sherrice, I think that’s enough,” Rideman interjected. “I think you're overwhelming Netto with all of your questions.”

“Oh, I apologize…” Sherrice replied, “I was just intrigued and wondered what it is like to be an Aaron, I know you need Draco or Purity to reveal themselves in the dream and sign some sort of contract. So what is it like to be a vessel of a God?”

“Well, it’s weird and overwhelming,” Netto answered. “Sure it’s cool having all these powers, but there’s a huge responsibility attached to it. And since I did accept Draco’s deal to rescue his sister, it’s kind of scary but he did assure me that he will send me back home once I rescue his sister and her vessel. By the way, who’s your NetNavi?”

“The name’s Rideman, nice to meet you, Netto!” Rideman greeted.

“I see, I could understand why it is difficult being Draco’s vessel,” Sherrice empathized.

“I am curious though, I’ve been here for at least a few months but I still don’t know much about this world,” Netto deflected. “I mean how did the Magic Users come about? Are they even connected to the Penumbras that we fought back in my Process of Discovery Trial?”

“To be honest, I wanted to participate in one when I was younger but Mother forbade me from ever joining due to how dangerous it was,” Sherrice recalled. “I was about to sneak in and take it with some of my classmates but I backed away when I saw some of them emerge with injuries after participating in the trial.”

“No kidding,” Netto commented. His mind remembers the traumatic experience he had during the Mirror Labyrinth Trial. “Still, I have many questions about how Universe B works actually.”

“Well, you didn’t ask…” Isla commented.

“Well, Netto, if you are that intrigued about our world then how about we meet up at Beach Flora Library.” Natsu suggested, “You can bring a group of your friends if you like?”

“A group?” Sherrice asked confused.

“Netto is diagnosed with GAD, Generalized Anxiety Disorder.” Natsu explained, “As a form of protection and assurance, he rarely goes alone as he is usually in a group. He’s currently in therapy and taking medication. He’s been responding well to the treatment he has chosen. If things go well, he’ll be functional enough to get ready for our journey.”

“Journey?” Sherrice intrigued.

“We’ll be going away on June the 22^nd,” Isla replied. “We’ve been preparing for the last few months.”

“You mean for the portal opening during that day?” Sherrice asked.

“Wait, you already know?”

“Well, only from rumors I overheard from my parents,” Sherrice replied. “They heard that the fabled 1,000-year-old portal will be opening on the Summer Solstice of this year.”

“It is true, Sherrice-san but we’re keeping it under wraps,” Netto confirmed. “We don’t want people to slip by and steal resources from the other dimensions.”

“Well, it is more of a safety measure than anything,” Natsu replied. “We don’t want any Umbra to sneak through and cause havoc in the other three dimensions.”

“Umbra?” This was the first time he had heard of that term.

“I’ll explain everything later,” Natsu assured. “You bring a friend group of your choice and we’ll give you a history lesson about our universe’s past.”

- Beach Flora Library -

Netto had managed to gather all those who were able to have plans open for today. The group consists of Draga, Angel, Ruby, Frost, R.C., Aeon, Isla, Henshin, Bulleta, and Stacy. They entered through the double doors and Netto was amazed at the library's interior; it looked like something out of a fantasy anime he would occasionally watch at home if bored. The structure was wooden and it seemed to be a few stories tall. Netto was in awe at all the greenery inside the library. The staff must have done a great job maintaining all the plants here. Some of the greenery had bright, colorful flowers peaking between the leaves.

“Netto, I see that you’ve brought everyone with you!” Natsu commented, “Well, those that are aware of your Aaron status.”

“I don’t know about that, Natsu” Draga doubted, “I think Aimi and Briana know about it as well.” She then sees Sherrice beside the blonde, spectacled girl. “Oh, Sherrice, long time no see!”

“Draga, Angel, nice to meet you two again!” Sherrice replied. “It’s been a while since elementary school.”

“Wait, Draga and Angel? You know Sherrice?” Isla asked baffled.

“Of course, Isla,” Draga responded. “We were a grade lower than her but we do know her through Natsu.”

The blond, spectacled girl fake coughs to get everyone’s attention. “Anyways, we should get going, follow me.”

“Hey, Natsu-chan, where are we going?” Netto asked.

“The Sage Historical Archives,” Natsu answered. “It’s a secluded part of the library where we store the more ‘unsavory’ parts of our world history.”

This piqued Netto’s interest, what certain parts of the past were so dark and scary that they had to be put away into the far reaches of the library? Natsu and Sherrice guided the group up a flight of stairs and went to the right. Natsu opened the door and all stepped into a thick forested pathway. Netto thought he was transported to another world rather than another section of the library. The pathway had a beautiful array of colorful flowers that grew either on the ground or in the trees. The dangling lanterns and dimly lit candles lit the whole area. It gave the entire part of this area a more mystical and magical vibe.

As they traversed down the colorful and magical pathway, they stopped in front of a wooden door. Sherrice is the one to open it to reveal another area of the library.

- Sage Historical Archive Area -

This part of the area seems pretty well-lit for the secluded part of the library. It was two stories tall and its bookshelves were filled with many books. The main chandelier was lighting up the entire room. As its namesake, pink and purple sage plants covered and coiled all over the chandeliers, railings, and even some of the windows. The mini chandeliers were also covered in sage plants and lit up every table. If Netto didn’t know any better, this would be more suitable for a book-themed café rather than a hidden area of the library.

“So, where do we start?” Natsu smiled.

“This place sure is huge…” Avatar commented as she projected herself as a small hologram. The library looks even bigger from her perspective.  

“The Sage Historical Archives are an important part of this library,” Mira explained. “We even have our own network so NetNavis of today and tomorrow can access them to their hearts’ content.”

“Wait, so each area has its own network?” Netto grasped.

“Sort of, you see every area of the library has a computer for anyone and their NetNavi to access,” Mira explained. “Every computer is connected to its own server. They’re all designed differently and are very distinct but they are all connected to a central network, that way NetNavis can easily traverse and visit any server in the Library’s Network.”

“So, it’s like every server is their own room,” Netto summarized. “And the library’s central network is like the connecting hallways.”

“Yeah, something like that,” Rideman affirmed. “I visited the Library’s Network a few times and it was similar to what you described. The only server I can’t access publically is the main librarian’s.”

“That’s because it is off-limits,” Mira explained. “You need permission from the main librarian to get access.”

“That’s pretty cool, I think we have something similar to that back in my home dimension,” Netto replied. “Some servers are open to the public while others are access restricted due to containing sensitive data.”

“Netto, if you want your Navi to explore the library’s network, there are some computers over there for you to plug into,” Natsu instructed. She gestures to her left towards a group of brand-new computer desks.

“Ready, Avatar?”

“Ready,” Avatar repeated.

“Plug-in! Avatar! Transmission!”

- Rosemary Network -

The server of this area is an endless maze of library walls that seem to reach the digital ceiling of the server with the occasional potted rosemary plant that is either, green, blue, or grey to break up the monotony. Avatar was curious about the plants’ texture and rubbed a few leaves against her fingertips; it felt like plastic. She wasn’t expected much as the cyber world wasn’t known for mimicking textures from the real, human world.

“Hey, Avatar, do you want to check the archives?” Rideman asked.

Avatar turned around and was surprised that Mira, Rideman, Amar, and Radioman also entered the network.

“This is the first time I’ve been here,” Radioman commented.

“Really, you haven’t been here before?” Amar asked baffled.

“Nope, Aeon was never interested in reading,” Radioman answered. “So, we rarely come to the library unless it is for a writing assignment like an essay.”

“Such a shame, you can actually learn something cool,” Mira commented.

“I could understand why people my age don’t go to the library,” Isla answered. “It’s because the information is outdated. You’re more likely to find more up-to-date stuff on the Internet.”

“Yeah, but sometimes those articles aren’t properly cited,” Amar argued. “I remember you citing a website link that led to a blog that was full of opinions and heresy instead of facts.”

“Tch! Don’t remind me,” Isla complained.

Netto sadly smiled as Isla’s relationship with Amar reminded him of his relationship with Rockman.

“So, where should we look first?” Avatar looks around and chooses a file that resembles a white book. On the cover was the title, Elemental Matters Study 101. She opens the book and it transforms into a floating screen where the grey Navi can easily swipe through the files. She reads about what these mysterious materials are.

Elemental Matters – Mysterious material that appeared shortly after the first Umbra Incident concluded. They suddenly spawned, a few years after the Umbras were contained due to the emergence of the Magic Users. They are named for emitting a mysterious elemental power when touched. So far there have been a total of 15 Elemental Matter that have been identified.

Red Matter

• A red crystal that emits the power of fire.
• Main Uses: It has been used as an alternate source of warmth and energy than burning wood which greatly reduces air pollution. It was one of the few matters that solved the energy crisis.

Blue Matter

• A blue crystal that holds the power of the sea.
• Main Uses: It caused a great breakthrough in the desalination process which solved the worldwide water crisis. The material itself seems to absorb the salt with ease and water becomes fresh and safe to consume.

Yellow Matter

• A yellow crystal that emits the power of electricity
• Main Uses: It was used as another alternative energy to help solve the energy crisis. Since its discovery, even isolated and remote villages have easy access to electricity.

Green Matter

• A green crystal that holds the power of nature.
• Main Uses: Ever since its discovery, this matter has been responsible for growing food in even the most nutrient-deficient soil in the harshest conditions. When ground down into powder it can allow anyone to grow crops on any soil. The only time it will not work is if the soil is contaminated with chemicals or radioactive.

Magenta Matter

• A magenta crystal that seems to emit energy that refreshes those that touch it.
• Main Uses: It has been used to heal various ailments and diseases when grounded in powder and integrated into various medicines. It is safe to digest in powder form. Due to its discovery, new breakthroughs in medicine were made that help treat and even cure certain diseases.
  • During the Emeric War, the Hope Healing Pharmaceutical Company used this matter to create Cure MMP0045, a vaccine that can successfully transformed Umbras back into humans. However, this cure is not 100% guaranteed as it can fail if the infected patient’s heart is too corrupted.

Chartreuse Matter

• A yellow-green colored crystal with energy that is very chaotic, it can either energize or tire you out.
• Main Uses: This matter seems to be the most chaotic out of all of the matters. At first, it was an insignificant matter as it only seemed to be used to ground into powder and put into roulette drinks that can energize or cause drowsiness when consumed. However, a breakdown came through as someone accidently sprinkled chartreuse matter powder onto a radioactive material which neutralized the highly toxic waste. The normal chaotic matter can be used to neutralize any contaminated radioactive material. While normally, various radioactive isotopes decay for at least decades. This material became very useful in safely disposing of radioactive waste.
  • For example: the first glow-in-the-dark watches were made with radioactive material but when adding powdered chartreuse matter the radioactivity went down to normal.

Cyan Matter

• A cyan crystal that seems to emit a power that makes you feel sharp.
• Main Uses: This matter is used in most cutting materials as it seems to slice through anything. It is used mostly used in everyday kitchenware like knives or most close-combat weapons like swords and katanas.

Pecan Matter

• A light brown crystal that holds the power of the earth.
• Main Uses: It was used mostly in demolition especially when destroying old, abandoned buildings.

Purple Matter

• A purple crystal that makes you feel invisible for a short time.
• Main Uses: This material is very useful in cloaking technology as studies show to refracts light to make any item invisible to the naked eye. However, it can easily be spotted when using any technology that is infused with brown matter.

Orange Matter

• An orange crystal that has a chance to spawn at least two via touch. It is advised to be careful on touching them to avoid causing blockades.
• Main Uses: In various parts of the construction industry, especially when creating new houses or other facilities.

White Matter

• A white crystal that emits the power of the wind.
• Main Uses: Made wind turbines a very reliable source. By inserting the white matter into the engines, they became very useful even during clear days. Also used in the airplane industry for faster travel.

Grey Matter

• A grey crystal that emits the power of strength
• Main Uses: In both the construction and demolition industries, when infused with various tools and engines of certain vehicles they break rocks and other hard material more efficiently.

Brown Matter

• A brown crystal that will increase your accuracy.
• Main Uses: Mostly used in the weaponry industry, particularly in technology that increases accuracy like scopes or sonars.

Crimson Matter

• A dark red crystal that emits darkness.
• Main Uses: Can detect if a person has darkness in his/her heart. The darker the person’s heart, the brighter the matter glows.
  • When paired with its lighter counterpart, the Lavender Matter, it can form a force field to prevent Umbras and Penumbras from escaping or harming humans.

Lavender Matter

• A light purple crystal that emits light.
• Main Uses: Can detect if a person has light in his/her heart. The lighter the person’s heart, the brighter the matter glows.
  • When paired with its darker counterpart, the Crimson Matter, it can form a force field to prevent Umbras and Penumbras from escaping or harming humans.

Avatar was very engrossed with the contents of the file, looking at every picture and description of this extraordinary material. If it was shared through the other three dimensions then theoretically there will be ever-lasting peace. No more worries about water shortages, famine, and energy crises if they can solve them by using even one cubic meter of this stuff, but some terms seem to jump out at her.  

Umbras and Magic Users, she has heard of them. Before she arrived at Universe B, she was shown the past events that led to the infamous incident that caused the great fall and rise of humanity again. She wasn’t comfortable sharing this knowledge with others, but Umbras were the manifestation of human’s evil emotions. Magic Users were the manifestation of human’s pure emotions. For peace to exist, chaos has to as well. To think her own creator would cause this much devastation to the human race just because one organization became greedy to learn about all the secrets from Draco, Purity, and their vessels.

She was relieved that this Universe had been peaceful for a very long time, but the progress to achieve it was from a very cataclysmic event that would stain and traumatize humanity so badly that they had put very strict regulations on corruption to make sure another Umbra Incident isn’t as devastated as the first.

- Sage Historical Archive Area -

Netto was looking through the various books to look for anything that details Universe B’s history. Particularly one that explains the origin of the Penumbras and the Magic Users. He found one that details the Magic Users, but instead of Penumbras, it says Umbras. Odd, Natsu did mention the term before but didn’t further elaborate on it.

“Oh, I see you found a book you like,” Draga observed. “Which one did you pick?” Netto shows the book to her, the History of Umbras and the Magic Users. “Oh, that book. The contents of it are very dark but educational. You could learn a lot from it.”

“What’s so disturbing about it?” Netto asked.

“Well, it’s best if you read it yourself,” Natsu replied. “It will get your full attention.”

Netto goes to sit at an empty table and reads the red and purple gradient book. What will he gain from reading this? Will it present a treasure of information that will give him a clear glimpse on what happened in Universe B’s past, his new home? He turns to the section that details the Umbra term. What he found disturbed him.

There were drawings and various depictions of these ‘creatures’. Despite being in completely different shapes and sizes that range from the height of a toddler to a literal skyscraper, all of them share something in common. They were black, amorphous blobs with white eyes that looked like it was scribbled on. Something out of a child’s nightmares.

Umbras – dark amorphous blobs with scribbled white eyes. There have been many reports that these creatures come in all shapes and sizes depending on the region of origin. Their behavioral patterns vary as well. For example: Countries that focus on individualism have Umbras that tend to attack alone and have a more unique appearance that looks similar to when it was once human. Countries that focus on collectivism attack in groups; their appearance seems more generic and will stick to each other.

Netto looked at the two examples listed below.

A drawing from America: the Umbras seem more humanoid with one wearing a bandana while the other had a monocle.

A drawing from Japan: the Umbras were more generic and amorphous but could easily stick to each other creating a monstrosity with many eyes.

He felt sick to his stomach, his home country was a collective society that focused more on the community than the people. If an Umbra Incident were to happen in the modern day then the effects would be pretty devastating. He continues to read more about the history of these monstrous creatures.

The first appearance of the Umbras happened 2,000 years ago when the Goddess Chaos unleashed her wrath onto the world when an Aaron and a Zeva were captured and experimented on by an unknown organization to unlock all of their secrets. She sabotaged the experiment which gave birth to the Umbras. Many people who were affiliated or had ties with this organization disappeared. It turns out they were either turned into Umbras or died from being inflicted with Void Syndrome.

Signs of an Umbra Incident begin when the minimum limit of 1,000 Umbras is reached in one area. The group will gather and cause a cataclysmic event called the Malice Wave that will affect the entire world. People who were affected by the Malice Wave felt a chill of unease before either turning into an Umbra or becoming immune. High-profile people are the first ones to get ill. The order in which the Umbras spread are the major cities, then towns, and finally the rural areas and villages. Many powerful elite people were the first to fall during the Umbra Incident which caused a worldwide collapse of various empires and government structures throughout the world. Many people fled to the rural areas to get away from them for fear of being infected. 

The first Umbra infestation was dubbed the Umbra Incident. Once it was over at least 2/3^rd of the human population was wiped out. Most of the Eastern countries' civilizations collapsed while the Western countries were barely able to hang on due to various factors such as diversity in the population, laws that promote personal freedom and protection from the government, etc.

Signs of an Umbra Infection

• Stage 1 - Inflicted patient starts coughing black stuff similar to ink. In this stage, this person the cure, MMP0045, will be the most effective.
• Stage 2 – The person starts convulsing even if the patient is stabilized, their body can no longer consume food and water.
• Stage 3 – The person is suddenly covered in black ink-like matter and then transforms into a black amorphous blob with white scribbled eyes. Its focus is survival and will seek out any human with evil in their heart.

Anyone who is attacked by an Umbra is at high risk of becoming one on prolonged contact. However, many who were attacked were inflicted with a mysterious condition called Void Syndrome. After doing some tests apparently if a person’s heart is too dark and is attacked by Umbra will become one. If there is some good in a person’s heart then they fall into a coma-like state instead.

Void Syndrome

• A condition after being attacked by an Umbra. The patient becomes catatonic and will not respond to any stimuli. However, they can still consume food and water. It is possible for people to recover from this condition though it varies from person to person. If a person’s heart is too evil, they fall into a coma-like state and die a few days after due to malnutrition. However, with the discovery of Cure MMP0045, this person can be easily treated with this condition.
• Patients who recover from this condition have dreams of being trapped in a grey void and feeling hopeless. Within a month of psychotherapy, most patients will return and function normally in society but become more mature and empathetic even those that suffer from conditions such as narcissistic and historic personality disorder. Apparently, studies show that beings that recover from Void Syndrome experience great self-reflection and willingness to change.

Netto was starting to get unnerved by this, a creature born from human’s dark, corrupted emotions. But on the other hand, there were a lot of bad people who existed and blended in amongst the population, especially in those who held high positions of power. An event like this that gets rid of them would make the world a better place in the long run. However, creating an apocalyptic event to erase them was a bit extreme. In his opinion, rehabilitation would’ve been a better option. To think that most of humanity was wiped out due to an organization’s greed for knowledge from the Gods. He looks at his group that were separated into smaller groups and sitting at various different tables.

Ruby, Frost, R.C., and Henshin were reading books from different genres. Ruby was reading a comedy, visual novel. Frost was reading non-fiction about survival from the mountains. R.C. was looking up writing tips. Finally, Henshin was skimming through a romance novel.

Aeon and Isla were seated at another table with Aeon enjoying a simple action comic book while listening to his music. While Isla was reading a magazine on different aerobic poses. Bulleta and Stacy were seated at a table across from Aeon and Isla’s. The spectacled, pigtailed girl was looking through the history of different weapons while the green-haired girl was reading a book detailing Edgar Allen Poe’s life and writing.

Sherrice, Natsu, and Angel were sitting at the same table as him. Sherrice was sipping some raspberry tea while reading ancient history. Natsu was finishing reading her underwater fantasy novel. Angel was reading a book on how to make cotton clouds. He was so engrossed in his book that he didn’t notice that everyone was busy doing their own thing. He goes back to reading his book and flips to the Magic User section.

Magic User System – created by Draco, Purity, and their vessels as a way to counterattack and stop the ever-growing Umbra population from wiping out humanity. Once the system is activated, every surviving human is given a lock around their heart.

Anyone can become a Magic User if they unlock their heart. There are various ways to unlock it either by thinking of someone close to you or by a traumatic or stressful event. Since the way in which the individual breaks their magical lock is very different, the Process of Discovery Trials was created in order for multiple people can unlock their magic powers easily to fight against the Umbra Incident.

Once the Magic User System was put in place, the Umbra population was quickly controlled but they could easily come back if there were traces of a corrupt government system or if society started to decay. This was a fact during the Emeric War. See the Emeric War section.

• Process of Discovery Trials – divided into small different tests usually five that test the human’s physical and mental capabilities. During these trials, a person can unlock their powers
• Type Categories
  • Common
    • Fire
    • Water
    • Electricity
    • Grass
    • Normal
  • Uncommon
    • Recovery
    • Stat
    • Sword
    • Invisible
    • Ground Cracking/Terrain
    • Cursor
    • Obstacle
    • Wind
    • Break
  • Rare
    • Dark
    • Light

Aftermath

A great rebuilding of human civilization had commenced after the Umbra Incident was contained. With the Magic User System, humanity has entered the long era of peace known as the Irene Era. Five years after the first Umbra Incident, a mysterious material called the Elemental Matter appeared that solved many crises such as food, water, and energy. They only spawn if there is an abundance of Magic Users in the area.

However, peace doesn’t always last forever as another Umbra Incident emerged in the form of the Emeric War.

Netto was relieved that the piece of history ended on a somewhat happy note, humanity got to live another day. Though he was curious about the Emeric War, why was this war part of the Umbra and Magic User history? He goes to the Emeric War section.

Emeric War – The Umbra Insurgence

Emeric War – the end result of a government system going corrupt and the society decaying around it. This was a very grim reminder that if even one society falls to corruption in terms of government and/or societal decay then another Umbra Incident can occur regardless of how much time has passed since the previous one.

Before the war and the emergence of the Umbras in the country of Groei. It was the rebuilt country of the Netherlands. Like every other surviving civilization, they had Magic Users and Elemental Matters to quickly recover from the last Umbra Incident. However, overtime the government was ruled by the Olric Family, who wish to weaponize the Magic User System and hoard all of the world’s resources and wealth for themselves so their country would be the most prosperous.

However, ten years during the Olric Family Rule, the current ruler, Pascal Olric, and most of his council gravely fell ill and turned into Umbras. This began the second Umbra Incident also known as the Emeric War.

Many lessons were learned during the Second Umbra Incident

• Any government establishment that has corruption in its ranks is more likely to cause an Umbra Incident. After the war ended and the Umbra population was quickly contained or neutralized, every surviving civilization that still had a functional government created strict restrictions and dealt harsh punishments on those that practiced corruption to prevent another Umbra Incident from occurring. Those who fail to follow or enforce these policies will result in an automatic removal of their position and/or serious jail time. These anti-corruption policies were also extended to various high-profile companions and other organizations.
• Elemental Material can be instilled into non-living items like weapons or vehicles as an alternate energy source. When grounded into powder, it can be safely consumed when sprinkled onto food, water, and medicine.  
  • Due to this discovery, a company called Hope Healing Pharmaceutical successfully developed Cure MMP0045, a type of medicine that can successfully turn an Umbra back into a human if injected or ingested. However, this cure can fail if the Umbra is too corrupted.

Netto was awestruck at how easily the world could easily fall into another Umbra Incident if one country’s government is corrupt and/or their society is decaying. So, if a universe is struck with one Umbra Incident then they’re stuck with them permanently until humanity croaked. However, it wasn’t all bad as they have an infinite, renewable energy source in the form of the Elemental Matters. But dark what-if questions crept into his mind. What if the human race went extinct? Would the Umbras cease to exist? Will the Elemental Matters stop appearing if there are no more Magic Users? He shook his head at these grim questions and continued reading.

He goes to the section that details the Penumbras. Unlike the nightmare fuel, child-like drawings of the Umbras, there were real photographs of what they looked like. Their appearance wasn’t too drastic as their natural counterparts, very slender and thinner than a regular Umbra and their size always seemed to be at least six or seven feet tall. Despite these differences, they still were black amorphous blobs with scribbled white eyes. They were as terrifying as their Umbra counterparts.

However, he felt his stomach drop when he saw some of the pictures depict some of the Penumbras infused with Elemental Matter. Those who had it inside their bodies had an ethereal glow to them. One was glowing lime green because of being infused with Chartreuse Matter, another was glowing yellow due to the Yellow Matter infusion. Just what kind of experiments were they performing on them? He does know that they were used for the Discovery of the Process Trials but in the past were used for a darker purpose.

Penumbras – imitations of the Umbras. They do attack humans but cannot kill them.

• An unknown organization captured and tried to experiment on the Umbras to see if they could be used as weapons and utilize magic powers like the Magic Users. The result was the creation of the Penumbras, artificial imitations of the Umbras. Additional discoveries were made after their creation.
  • Penumbras when infused with an Elemental Matter can use elemental powers, but they can still be quickly destroyed if hit with the weaknesses of their element.
    • For example, a Fire-infused Penumbra can be easily killed by a Water-Type User.
  • Another more infamous, controversial experiment was done on various human subjects to see if they could transform into an Umbra by being injected with a sample of an infused Penumbra with Elemental Matter to see if they turn into an Umbra with elemental powers.
    • There were three results:
      • Most got inflicted with Void Syndrome and either died shortly after or went into a coma.
      • People with darkness in their hearts were most likely to become an Umbra but died shortly after due to the infused Elemental Matter. This is because the mixture of the positive energy from the Elemental Matter and the negative energy from the Penumbra will cause great conflict with the subject’s body and will die a slow, painful death.
    • After the conclusion of this experiment, many studies were conducted on trying to make an Elemental Umbra and the surviving Magic User subjects that gained a secondary type after being injected with an infused Penumbra.
      • Search for the Elemental Umbra
        • Many scientists tried to create the elusive Elemental Umbra that can be used as a super weapon. However, all attempts ended in failure due to the fact that the Elemental Matter’s positive energy will always eliminate the Negative Energy within the Penumbra. Thus creating one was highly impossible.
      • Multi-Type Magic Users
        • Normally, when someone becomes a Magic User, they are given one type. However, if they were injected with an infused Elemental Penumbra, they can get a secondary type.
        • However, the limit of types a Magic User can have in their body is four. If injected with a fifth type, the Magic User will go insane and would need to be sedate to avoid harming the other subjects. The only way to subdue it is to inject a Penumbra with an elemental type that is strong against any of the other types that the Multi-User is weak against. After injection, a type will be removed from that User.
          • For Example: If a Multi-User has the type Electric, Grass, Null, Fire, and Terrain, inject the patient with a Penumbra that is either Grass, Fire, or Water to subdue them.
          • After the end of the Emeric War, officials found the unknown organization’s headquarters from an anonymous tip and saw all the experiments and paperwork they left behind. They apprehended the surviving staff, rescued the surviving subjects, and confiscated their studies. Their works were eventually declassified and published 100 years after the Emeric War ended.

Netto hastily closed the book after digesting all the contents he needed. He understood why this book was not for everyone as it dealt with government and corporate corruption, war, and human experimentation. He felt ill after reading the Penumbra section; he was never looking at those creatures the same way again.

“You okay, Netto? You look pretty pale,” Angel asked.

“It’s just the contents of the book, made me a bit queasy,” Netto answered.

“I understand your feelings, Netto.” Sherrice empathized. “I too was ill and disgusted when I found the true origin of the Penumbras and the Magic Users. It was very dark stuff.”

“Here, Netto, I think you need to read this break,” Draga suggested. He was caught off-guard when Draga came up to his table, offering him a brown tome that had three dragons carved onto the cover.

“What book is that?”

“This book details the three groups that were loyal to Draco, Purity, and Chaos.” Draga explained, “They later converted into religious groups until they fizzled out 200 years ago. The most interesting things that they left behind were the complex machines that they constructed and maintained with the help of the three Dragon Gods. Their most notable constructions were the Ancient Relics that were stationed at every dimension but their locations were lost to time. There were other buildings that they made but they were either left to rot or were destroyed after the Emeric War.”

Netto takes a closer look at the title of this book.

Relics of the Forgotten Religions

He was curious and took the tome from Draga’s hands. The texture was similar to leather when he felt it. He opened the book and saw various pictures and drawings detailing the three groups that were involved in building these complex yet ancient structures. Netto goes through the table of contents and skims through most of the pages. Some of the terms popped out to him such as Draga, Purity, Chaos, and the Ancient Relic. However, what caught his attention were the names of the three groups and which Dragon God they were loyal to.

Agni – Loyal to Draco

Zaki – Loyal to Purity

Medea – Loyal to Chaos

He goes to the section that goes into more detail about the three groups and the first one was the Medea Group. What greeted him at the introductory page was their logo, a black and white monochromatic diamond gem with a magenta dragon head in the middle.

Medea

The oldest of the three groups. They believe in the duality of reality such as the concepts of chaos and peace, destruction and creation, death and life, etc. They despise human corruption as they believe it is a great hindrance to human progress. They will not hesitate to quickly remove any of their own members if there is evidence of practicing it. They are the main contributors to creating most of the relics that have survived to the modern day.

Not much else is known about this group since Chaos rarely checks upon them. They disbanded after the second Umbra Incident and before the advent of the Fenna Era.

The alignment of this group is mostly neutral though they can be chaotic at times; they rarely align with good or evil.

Agni

The Agni is the second oldest of the three groups. They were more oriented in combat and focused on weaponry and physical well-being. They were loyal to Draco and would quickly promote his vessels as their leader since they contained their God in their body. They focus more on pragmatism but do hold honor and dignity in high regard. They believe that any Aaron is their new leader since he/she holds their God Draco in his/her body.

They have connections to people in high positions of power and keep an eye on which companies and government establishments are prone to corruption. However, members have to keep a low profile to avoid losing their positions.

The group’s alignment can range from good to evil. 

Zaki

The Zaki is the youngest group. They were more honorable but some do practice pragmatism. Like the Agni, they focus on weaponry but spiritual well-being instead of physical. They usually blend in with regular citizens to gather Intel in order to make sure the regular population hasn’t become corrupted due to societal decay. Like the Agni, they believe every Zeva is their new leader since they hold their Goddess Purity in his/her body.

The alignment of this group varies between good and evil.

Lavinia Artifacts

Various buildings and miscellaneous items were the only things that the groups left behind by the Medea, Agni, and Zaki Groups. These pictures depict the real-life, recovered artifacts that were archived and preserved by the Cilla Preservation. The term Lavinia was named after the wife of the first president of the Cilla Preservation Company.

Netto took a look at every recovered item, but none caught his attention. It was either a weapon that was ranged from being broken to being in decent condition or a piece of shattered pottery.

However, his interest was piqued when he looked at the buildings section. A certain structure was taking most of his attention. It was a picture of an unknown structure that had four pillars around it that had the letters A, B, C, and D carved into each one. Pillar A had an aqua-green color, Pillar B was colored red-violet, Pillar C was yellow, and Pillar D was purple. However, in the middle of the pillar was a giant red diamond that was brightly lit inside an abstract structure that resembled a jellyfish. There were two pages dedicated to this mysterious structure that Netto had to fully open the book to read the entire section.

Scyphozoan Blue Court

The structure was responsible for kick-starting the worldwide Process of Discover Trial that happened 2,000 years ago. Today, it is a marvel of architectural beauty as a collaboration between the humans and the Dragon God and Goddess, Draco, and Purity.

The Four Pillars represent each dimension. The abstract structure has a striking resemblance to a jellyfish. As a result, a species of jellyfish was named in honor of this structure. Universe B’s color is red-violet but the diamond is more reddish in color to distinguish it from Pillar B. There were many theories on how to activate the structure. One theory is that four offerings were needed but it’s unclear if it required human sacrifices or not. Another is that a unique key called Diamond Court Key was needed for activation. Other theories suggest that both the four offerings and the Diamond Court Key were needed to activate it.

Regardless, once the requirements are fulfilled the Court System will activate and transport the surviving humans to a new realm that is separate from their home dimension. In order to return back to their original dimension, at least 1/4^th of the surviving population must complete the Process of Discover Trial. Once they arrive back to their home realm, their Magic User Powers will activate immediately and will be used to eliminate the Umbras. However, it has been at least two millennia since the court system’s activation and knowledge for reentry was lost due to the fact it was a guarded secret between the Agni and the Zaki.

Netto was curious and looked more closely at theories on how to activate the Scyphozoan Blue Court system. He looked at the Diamond Court Theory and froze when he saw the speculation drawings of the key. They all look awfully familiar to the necklace that Sapphire gifted on his birthday. He took out his treasured keepsake that was tucked underneath his vest and compared it to all of the drawings. How did Sapphire’s uncle get a hold of this historical, crucial item?

He then reads the rest of the section, particularly this specific paragraph.

The naming of this structure was actually named after Draco and Purity tried to create a life of their own but due to their inexperience, during the creation of the four dimensions that new life perished before the birth of the four dimensions.

Their name was called ██████.

Netto was confused, why was the mysterious being’s name redacted?

Draga seated herself at the same table that Netto, Angel, Natsu, and Sherrice were sitting at. She was very curious about the odd necklace around Netto’s neck. “Hey, Netto where did you get that?”

“Doesn’t that item look familiar?” Angel asked.

“No way!” Sherrice cried as she yanked at Netto’s necklace. “How on Earth did you find the real Diamond Court Key? No one has seen the real one for centuries!”

“…Too tight…” Netto uttered. Sherrice quickly released the necklace after seeing the brunette choking. After she releases her grip on the chain, Netto can breathe easily again. He gasped for a few breaths before answering, “Funny story, I got it from a friend, Sapphire Onee-san!”

“Sapphire? Never heard of her,” Sherrice commented.

“She’s the one that contacts Netto in a shared dreamscape,” Draga replied. “Don’t know why that happens but that’s how Netto obtained it.”

“Really? So, she the one that gave it to you?” Sherrice asked. “But she’s from your dreams, how can obtain items from them? Do they just suddenly appear in the real world?”

“Maybe the dreamscape they’re in is built differently,” Draga suggested. “It wouldn’t surprise me that Draco, himself constructed it so his vessel can transport items between worlds.”

“It’s true,” Netto confessed abashedly, “I had my first contact with her, I was in this world. At first, we were strangers since we lived in different cities. But we did get to bond over the many chances we got in the Dome Garden Dreamscape. However, if I did choose to go back home and stay there, it’s going to be complicated. Onee-san even showed me pictures of my friends and family during the time I was gone. Although, they look different. For example, Papa got some wrinkles and grey hairs, and Meiru-chan and Enzan got taller and wore different clothes. Even my favorite places where I used to hang out have changed as well. I’m not sure if they’re the same.”

“I see,” Sherrice commented. “I understand why it would be pretty hard for you to fully adjust to a brand-new environment while trying to find a way back home. The problem is that so much time has passed that everyone you know has grown up and the locations you loved have either changed or worse are gone.”

“Wait, Sherrice, you know about the existence of the different dimensions?” Angel asked.

“Of course,” Sherrice replied. “My family had ties to the Agni group before their disbandment, but we get to keep some of their relics in our private collection.”

“Really, if that’s the case then do you know the whereabouts of the Scyphozoan Blue Court?” Netto asked. “I tried to find it in the book but it doesn’t give an exact location. All I can gather is that is stationed at an island.”

“If you insist that I will gladly offer you a trip on my family’s private jet,” Sherrice offered. “I know where the real location is. It is on Amphitrite Island which is near the country of Mira. I have a private villa that is close to a town that is a short boat ride away from the island. However, you need to wait for a while because I need to talk with the higher-ups from the Cilla Preservation.”

“You mean that place cannot be accessed publicly?” Netto asked.

“It’s for research purposes and to protect the wildlife of the island,” Sherrice answered. “You see there are some plant life and animals that are only native to that island. So the Cilla Preservation restricted access to make sure that the environment is preserved. The only way to visit is to get permission or have connections to the Cilla Preservation.”

“Thank you so much, Sherrice-san!” Netto thanked, “I know we just met but still.”

“It’s no problem, Netto.” Sherrice smiled, “Think of it as a friend helping out. You are the new Aaron, so it is understandable that you have to learn everything about our world and how it is connected to your role as Draco’s vessel.”

- Rosemary Network -

Avatar was looking at the same book that Netto was reading in digital form; she was reading the Scyphozoan Blue Court section of the Relics of the Forgotten Religions. However, when she went to the redacted name was replaced with a secret code: Zvxkbx*.

If any other NetNavi saw it, they probably wouldn’t understand the algorithm and thought it was the actual name of the being. However, Avatar recognizes it; she can translate the code and knows the mysterious being’s true name.

“Cyanea...” she quietly muttered.

EXTRA: My first attempt at drawing Sherrice.

Chapter Text

Netto was very excited as this was his first time visiting another country in this universe. It was a bit daunting for him to figure out what to pack in his newly bought, orange suite case. Avatar was quietly observing him putting his clothes into the luggage. He was now packing his toiletries like a travel toothbrush, a small tube of toothpaste, dental floss, and a small bottle of Benzo medication. He packed some entertainment items like his drawing tablet into a blue backpack to occupy himself during the flight.

Avatar glanced mindlessly around the room until her vision fell upon the Sapphire doll on Netto’s bed. “Hey, Netto, where did you get that doll?”

“Oh, Sapphire Onee-san gave it to me,” Netto replied.

“You’re not going to bring it with you?” Avatar asked.

“It’s a precious gift,” Netto reasoned. “It’s better if it’s left behind. I’m afraid of losing it on the trip.”

“Understandable, so who did you choose to bring on the trip?”

“Well, everyone!” Netto beamed. “Almost everyone, Felica-chan couldn’t come because she was too busy helping her uncle, Rick, managing the weapons shop. But Draga, Angel, R.C., Ruby, Frost, Isla, Aeon, Bulleta, Henshin, and Stacy are. Oh and Natsu-chan as well! Can’t forget about her.”

“Anyone else?”

“Joan and Spectra, my classmates from my drawing class,” Netto answered.

“You mean the operators of Delia and Reina?” Avatar inquired, “The ones from the Chroma Juice Bar?”

“Yup, they’re also coming on the trip,” Netto chirped.

“Is Sherrice, okay with you bringing a huge group on the trip?” Avatar asked, “I would be a bit peeved that I have to accommodate a large gathering.”

“But Sherrice approved the amount of people I’m bringing, so you have nothing to worry about,” Netto assured.

“I just prefer being in smaller crowds,” Avatar commented.

This caught Netto’s attention. Is this a part of Avatar’s free will? To make her think differently from other NetNavi by giving her preferences that are very different from her operator. This is the first time he encountered a NetNavi that voiced their concerns for their own well-being instead of their operator’s. He shook his head as he reminded himself that Avatar is his friend and would not treat her any differently. “If you feel uncomfortable you can always return to the PET.”

“True, but on the other hand, I do want to meet and hang out with the other NetNavis. But at the same time if I spend too much time with them it’s draining,” Avatar confessed. “Is that a weird way to say?”

“Actually, I get what you’re saying,” Netto replied. “Enzan was more of an indoor person partially due to his responsibilities as a Net Savior and as Vice President at his father’s company. And even though he would have time to hang out, he would usually feel drained and go to some empty place to recharge. It wasn’t until Meiru-chan pointed out that Enzan is an introvert.”

“So you think I’m an introvert? Is that a bad thing?”

“Of course not, it’s not bad at all,” Netto assured. “To be honest, this is the first time I heard a Navi voice their concerns about themselves. Usually, they voice their concerns about the well-being of their operator. For example: Rockman will always voice his concerns about me. Whether it’s homework or doing chores. Rarely, he voices his concerns about his own wellbeing.”

“Well, that’s because he’s a normal custom NetNavi,” Avatar replied. “Their purpose is to help their operators with everyday tasks. It’s just humans will get scared if they find out that an AI can think for themselves, they’ll be afraid and try to get rid of them instead of befriending them…” Avatar pauses for a moment, her fists start to shake.

Netto quickly grabs her wrists and attempts to calm down her paranoid fears. “Hey, it’s okay! You’re safe…I know you’re scared since you have free will but it will be okay. My - no our friends will understand. You just need to open up a little more.”

“You really this so?” Avatar asked.

“Of course, during the last three months, the people of this world are much more kind-hearted,” Netto replied. “Sure, we still suffer from mental illnesses but it’s the kind support from our peers that we got the help we need.”

“Netto…I understand. Thank you!”

“You're welcome! Come on, I need to finish packing and catch up with Draga and Angel!”

Avatar agrees and returns to the Cosmic PET.

After he finishes packing his stuff, he looks back at the Sapphire Doll still sitting on the bed. He decides to take it with him and stuff it into his new blue backpack before going downstairs to join Draga and Angel.

“Ready to go?” Draga asked.

Netto nods in agreement and sees that Draga and Angel already packed up their travel baggage. Draga’s was a burgundy, hard-shelled suitcase and a pink messenger bag. Angel’s baggage was a sky blue, cloud-themed suitcase, and a light blue gradient, travel bag. As they exited the beach house, Ruby and R.C. were already waiting for them. Ruby’s luggage was a pink backpack and a red, hard-shelled suitcase with flame stickers on it. R.C.’s was a blue, one-strapped backpack and dark blue, plaid patterned, duffle bag.

“Hey, we are here to pick you up!” Ruby beamed, “Frost and Natsu are already waiting for us at the Kumo Household with the Grand Highlander. Frost will be the one driving.”

After everyone packed their luggage at the back, Frost drove his parents’ Grand Highlander towards Avril Denka’s Arcoiris Airport.

- Arcoiris Airport -

As they drew near towards the airport, Netto was amazed at how huge it was. After Frost parks the Highlander in an empty parking lot spot and helps everyone get their luggage, they spot some familiar cars.

“Look! There’s Aeon’s parents’ Grand Cherokee Jeep!” Ruby noted. She was pointing to a blue car that seemed very modern and was a hybrid of a regular car and a jeep.

“Hey, whose car is that?” Netto asked. A sleek, modern white car that was close to the exit of the airport parking lot caught his eye. It was mostly white but the top half was black. This was a very brand-new front-wheel car. However, he had to catch up with the group.

Once they entered the airport, they saw Aeon, Savannah, Isla, Bulleta, Stacy, and Henshin waiting for them. “Savannah, what are you doing here?”

“Just saying my goodbyes to my older brother and his friends,” Savannah answered. “I’m the one who drove the car since Aeon doesn’t have a full driver’s license yet.”

“Hey, shut up, Savannah,” Aeon hissed, giving his sister the side-eye.

“Have a safe trip, all of you,” Savannah said as she left the airport, ignoring her brother’s petty glare.

“Give it a rest, Aeon. Come on, let’s check in our luggage and board,” Isla noted.

Once all the paperwork was sorted and the luggage was checked out, they all arrived at the airport’s boarding gate. “So, which gate is ours?”

“Gate 7, I think?” Netto read.

“Netto!” Spectra cried. “Over here!”

Netto saw Sherrice, Joan, and Spectra waiting for them at the same boarding gate. But what caught Netto’s eye was there was an additional member, Bella.

“Bella, you’re coming with us?” Netto asked.

“Of course, Spectra is the one who invited me,” Bella confirmed. “I’m sorry that I didn’t tell you beforehand.”

“I don’t mind if more people are joining us,” Netto assured. “Though I am disappointed that Spectra and Joan didn’t tell me beforehand.”

“Sorry, it was a last-minute decision,” Spectra replied. “We forgot to tell you.”

“So, are you joining us on the flight?”

“Actually, we are going on a different flight,” Bella answered.

“A different flight?”

“Didn’t you know, Spectra’s family is loaded,” Bella revealed. “She has her own private jet. Though she rarely uses it.”

Netto looks at his classmate in disbelief.

“You didn’t tell him, didn’t you?” Joan uttered.

“Nope, it slipped,” Spectra admitted.

“Anyway, we’ll meet up at Masato International Airport,” Sherrice informed. “Come alone, our flight will be boarding soon.”

- Aria Airplane -

This wasn’t the first time that Netto was inside a private jet as he rode Yaito’s in the past a few times. The interior was very different but there were enough seats for everyone and there was even an aquarium.

“Whoa! So this is how the luxury fly?” Henshin gasped.

“It’s amazing, everything is so sleek and luxurious!” Ruby gushed.

After everyone put away their luggage, everyone plugged their Navis into the private jet’s network and fastened their seatbelts as the jet was about to take off. Once the jet reached a safe altitude in the air, the seat belt safety light turned off and everyone was allowed to remove their seat belts. Sherrice snapped her fingers and the seats rearranged themselves. Now there was more room for the passengers to wander around.

Some of the flight attendants came and asked them if they wanted any drinks. Netto asked for some orange juice before he got out his tablet and drew.

- Lyndon Network -

Avatar was amazed at how elegant and luxurious this network was. That was her first time here and notes that it resembles a room in which the rich would host luxurious parties. The yellow, pale green, and blue hues of the network reflected the early morning. The float rings near the ceiling were carrying diamonds that resembled the elusive gold mystery data that resembled chandeliers. There was even a bar where a NormalNavi was concocting some drinks. She observes what the other Navis are doing. Amar and Radioman were playing ping pong while Mira and Rideman were sitting at the bar.

“This time, I’ll get a point!” Radioman declared.

“We will see,” Amar argued. She serves the ball and it flies at the yellow and grey Navi’s face. Right smack on the forehead.

“Ow, damn it! Can’t I win at something against you?” Radioman fumed. His pride and forehead were hurt right now.

Avatar decides to approach the bar. Mira and Rideman were sampling the drinks.

“Mmmm, this mimosa tastes like oranges,” Mira commented. She was taking a sip from a tall wine glass filled with an orange drink and decorated with a cut orange.

“I’m glad you like it,” the server smiled. Avatar notes that he was winking at Rideman and the cowboy Navi winked back. She wonders if the server made a real imitation of a mimosa. Don’t alcoholic drinks make you tipsy if you consume too much?

“Oh, Avatar, didn’t see ya there!” Rideman greeted. “Come on, drink with us!” He pats the empty barstool next to him. Avatar relents and sits on it. “So, how are you enjoying the airplane’s network?”

“It’s very cozy,” Avatar commented.

“Of course, private jets especially ones with Networks give those with NetNavis a space to relax until landing,” Rideman explained.

“And Mira, are you enjoying your drink?”

“You bet, I didn’t realize how fresh and fruity some alcoholic drinks are!” Mira added.

“Actually, we were given a program as a gift from Cyber Delights,” Rideman informed. “It’s a prototype though, so there’s still a lot of tinkering to do before the final version is released.”

“So, Rideman, about this Scyphozoan Blue Court? Have you been there before?” Avatar deflected.

“A few times,” the cowboy Navi replied. “However, something was interesting to note. The staff of Cilla Preservation stated that it might contain a network that might be older than ours.”

This piqued Avatar’s interest, a network that is older than the current one. Is that even possible?

- Kaia International Airport -

The entire flight to Mira’s Kaia International Airport was no more than five hours. Once the private jet touched down and safely landed, everyone exited it. Netto was amazed at how the interior was underwater-themed. Tile patterns and mosaics depict fish, coral, and other marine life swimming undersea covering the walls of the boarding gate.

As his group quietly exited the airport, he saw more depictions of fish and marine life painted on the walls. He even saw paintings of well-known sea creatures from mythology including the Kraken, hydra, and sirens. He wondered if the rest of the airport was decorated with this type of style.

- Sachiel Villa -

Sherrice’s private villa looked luxurious with a red roof but it fitted the theme of the nearby town. Its white, blocky exterior and blue windows were a common, architectural design of this country.

“Why don’t we all relax for a bit?” Sherrice suggested, “Rooms have been prepared for you, so you can either choose your own room or bunk with a friend or two.”

“Sounds good to me,” Spectra added.

“Come on, Frost! Why don’t we share a room together?” Henshin suggested.

“Sure, why not,” Frost replied.

“Hey, Netto? Wanna bunk together?” Aeon asked.

“Sorry, Aeon but I want to have my own room,” Netto declined.

“Man, that sucks,” Aeon whined. “We would be great roommates!”

“You come with us, Aeon!” Henshin offered, “We wouldn’t mind sharing a room with you.”

“Sure, of course,” Aeon accepted.

“Hey, Angel do you want to share a room with me?” Ruby asked.

“Sure, Draga, R.C., and Natsu are going to be sharing a room to do more research on the Legend,” Angel accepted. “What about you, girls?”

“Spectra, Joan, and I are going to share one room,” Bella replied.

“What about you Sherrice?” Ruby inquired.

“I already have my own room,” Sherrice answered. “I prefer my own space rather than sharing with some roommates.” She then clasps her hands together and smiles as she makes her announcement. “All right everyone, since you’ve all decided your room preferences, my staff will escort you towards your rooms. After all of you are done with unpacking, Rizogalo* will be served in the diner room. Don’t be shy to ask my staff for directions.”  

- Netto’s Room: 610 -

After a butler escorted Netto to his room, he permitted Avatar to materialize into the real world. She walks around the luxurious yet simple room. It was pretty spacious and cozy for one bedroom; she couldn’t imagine what a multi-person room would look like. The walls were a cool turquoise and the floors were lamented, light wood. The bed had blue sheets and orange pillows. She was curious about the texture and pressed her hand against the blankets and cushions. They were very soft and comfortable. Anyone could have a good night’s rest with this type of bedding. The windows were so huge that they almost covered the wall and they connected to a door that led to the balcony that had a great view of the ocean. She wants to go out but hesitates out of fear of being spotted. The grey Navi descries to open the window instead. The oceanic breeze flew through her and her thin strip of hair flew back for a bit. She could feel the heat of the sun on her face before looking up at the breathtaking scenery. Avatar could see humans playing on the beach or swimming out in the water.

“Netto, look! The ocean water seems to be clear and sparkling today, and there isn’t a cloud in the sky,” Avatar beamed.

For the first time, Netto saw Avatar beaming like a child. To see her with so much child-like wonder at the smaller, innocuous this of this world instead of being reserved and aloof as usual. It made him smile as well, which stirred a ludicrous idea thought in his brain. “Hey, Ava, if you really like the scenery so much then let’s go to the beach together!”

“W-w-what?!” Avatar sputtered, “Are you sure, Netto? I don’t want to attract any attention.”

“It’ll be fine!” Netto assured. “Don’t you have the ability to disguise yourself as a human?”

“That is true, but wouldn’t your friends be worried? It isn’t safe to wander alone in a new country.”

“It’ll be okay! The nearest beach doesn’t seem far away from the villa. We’ll just walk over there for a bit then come back!”

Avatar relents and returns to the PET. As Netto exits his room, he accidently bumps into Ruby and Frost.

“Oh, Netto are you going out?” Ruby asked.

“Do you know where it is?” Frost asked.

“I’m sure it’s not far from the villa,” Netto assured. “I’ll just ask Sherrice-san for directions to get there. I believe she’s in the diner last I heard.”

“Do you know where the diner is located?”

“I’ll just ask a staff member.”

After asking a maid to show him where the diner is. Sherrice was in a very elegant diner that reminded Netto of a ballroom. The walls were pure white with diamond chandeliers, black and white marble walls, a simple marble table with golden legs, and red velvet chairs with matching legs. On the table were plates of Rizogalo served on fine china that had flora patterns painted in red and adorned with golden trimmings, the plant vase flowers were burgundy hyacinths, the signature flower of Mira. Sherrice was drinking some tea with Rideman standing on her shoulder.

She looks up and sees Netto standing across the long table. “Oh, Netto? Did you want any Rizogalo?”

“Actually, I was wondering if you have directions to the nearest beach this is near the villa,” Netto asked.

“You mean Hydrangea Beach?” Sherrice clarified, “Sure, I’ll send a virtual map via Rideman that will take you there.”

Rideman appears in Netto’s PET and gives Avatar the directions. “There you go, just go straight until you see the bushes. You can’t miss those colorful flowers.”

“Thank you, Rideman.”

Rideman returns to Sherrice’s PET.

“Thanks, Sherrice-san!” Netto replied. “Oh, I forgot something. Itadakimasu!” He grabs a cup of the rice pudding and wolfs it down. He puts down the emptied cup on the table. “Thanks for the meal!” He then walks out of the room leaving the duo stunned at how fast he finished his dessert.

“He sure does have a big appetite…” Sherrice commented.

“Indeed, I’ve never seen anyone finish a small dessert cup in less than five minutes,” Rideman added.

- Hydrangea Beach -

As Netto strolls straight down the path listed on the map, he sees the colorful bushes and hides behind them. He looks around before looking down at his PET with a mischievous glee in his eyes.

“Netto, what are you planning?” Avatar did not like the mischievous look in his pupils.

“Ava, I’m going to show you the scenery, materialized,” Netto smiled.

“Are you serious, Netto? That is way too risky!” Avatar cautioned, “Besides you took me to the beach, a couple of times back in Beach Flora Town. Why is this any different?”

“Have you visited the beach while materialized before?” Netto asked.

“No, but it’s too risky!” Avatar cautioned, “There was a high chance that someone we know would find out and spread rumors!”

“That is true, but the difference is Beach Flora Town is a small town where everyone knows each other. We’re in a different country. No one knows us and the others are busy doing their own thing,” Netto argued. “When you substantiate in the real world, you can easily disguise yourself as an ordinary girl and no one would be none the wiser. You’ll blend in much better with the crowd.”

This makes sense but Avatar thought it was wrong for her to pretend to be someone else. But she has to swallow her pride if she needs to befriend people in the real world. She needs to look like them albeit temporarily. Once she feels like she’s accepted by the humans then she’ll reveal her true self to them. That was the most logical choice for her. She relents and grants Netto’s request. “Okay but only near the beach.”

“Aw, I wanted you to try some of the Miran cuisine here,” Netto whined.

“Netto, later,” Avatar assured. “Didn’t you say we can play near the beach? You didn’t say anything about eating the country’s food earlier.”

Netto pouted but relented. He had to accept the fact that Avatar could choose to come out of the PET or not. He could try to manually force her out, but he’d risk breaking her trust. He did not want that.

Avatar quickly materializes in the real world as usual, but she gently presses on her chest emblem and glows a bright blue. Once it subsided, in her place was a girl around Netto’s age. She had long blue hair tied into a low ponytail, eyes in a lighter shade of blue, and pale skin. Her clothes were a baby blue, hoodie jacket with white stripes on the sleeves, fingerless, grey gloves, jean shorts, knee-length black socks, and grey shoes.

Netto was amazed by her human appearance. He circles around her doubting if she’s the same one in human form. Ava, is that really you?”

“Of course, this is my default appearance,” Ava confirmed. “This is when I don’t have any other DNA sample in my database.”

“This is so cool!” Netto beamed. “Imagine the possibilities, Rockman the other Navis would be able to do if we can copy that code from you! They can actually be like real humans and live like us as well.”

Ava gives out a small smile when she sees how happy and eccentric he is acting. His beaming grin seems very confident and natural. During the time she spent with him, Netto would have certain tics due to his anxiety disorder such as fidgeting, playing with his fingers, or tugging on his scarf or necklace. This is the first she saw his true smile. ‘It will be fine,’ she mentally assured. ‘It will take time for Netto to fully accept and adapt to his diagnosis.’ She was surprised when Netto suddenly grabbed her gloved hand.

“Come on, Ava! Let’s go enjoy and play near the shoreline!” Netto smiled.

“But I don’t have a swimsuit,” Ava pointed out.

“It’s fine, it’s fine!” Netto assured. “We’re not going to swim in the water. There are other things to do at the beach. Like making sandcastles, peaking at the insects, and collecting some seashells.”

As the two ran towards the beach, Ava was in awe at how many hydrangeas seemed to line up well as they got closer to the beach. The seashells seem to glitter under the glow of the sun.

“How about we take a little rest over there?” Netto asked. He was pointing towards a single palm tree sticking out from the many hydrangea bushes. It was a perfect place to take a small nap. The two sleep next to each other under that tree with the sunset glowing behind them.

Aenon Town -

Ruby and Frost decide to go scope out the nearby coastal town of Aenon. The brunette girl stretches her arms while taking in the scenery of the calm atmosphere. Bystanders were quietly passing by them while they were either window shopping or talking to their companions.

“Take in the heat, the sound of the seagulls, and the smell of the food!” Ruby commented.

“I admit the scenery is nice,” Frost added. “Though the seagulls are a bit bothersome.” A seagull dives and steals an unexpected kid’s bagel before the boy takes a bite out of it. He was suddenly eating air and wondering where his missing food item went.

“Eh, it's seagulls, they’re always annoying. So, where do we go first? Maybe some window shopping, sample the local food, or listen to the street musicians?”

“I was thinking we go to the beach,” Frost answered. “I brought my swimsuit.” He points to his white duffle bag with a snowflake pattern on it.

“Are you serious?! You know, how much I hate going near large bodies of water,” Ruby bemoaned. The reason why Ruby doesn’t like to swim is due to a traumatic experience when she was five years old. She almost drowned when she went too far out at the deep end of a lake.

“Idiot, I’m not asking you to swim with me.” Frost corrected, “I’m going to swim alone, you can just watch.” Ruby was relieved as she wasn’t forced to swim with him.

- Hydrangea Beach -

Natsu was happily walking alone on the beach with Mira on her shoulder. She happily breathes in and out the fresh air, “I miss coming to Mira.”

“You did tell me that you named me after the country you visited when I was younger,” Mira recollected.

“That is true, I still remember the beauty of this country,” Natsu smiled. “I can’t believe it stayed the same after all these years.”

“Ava, look at the crabs!”

Natsu and Mira stopped and quickly recognized the voice; it was Netto. But the voice following him caught them off-guard.

“But Netto, what if they pinch me? Those claws look strong and sharp.”

“Don’t worry, they won’t…Ouch!”

“Told you…”

Natsu quickly hid in the bushes and peeks out. Netto was crying from the pain due to a crab pinching his index finger.

“That’s bad,” Ava commented. “I’ll try to remove it.” She carefully wraps her fingers around the crab’s claw and slowly pulls apart its dactyls. Once it is free from Netto’s finger, she drops the red crustacean onto the sand and it idly walks away. “Is your finger cut?” She looked at where the crab pinched and some blood was oozing out. “Yup, it’s cut. Let’s clean the wound and get it wrapped up.”

“I didn’t know Netto was dating someone?” Ruby commented.

Natsu looked to her left and saw Ruby and Frost also looking at the scene. ‘Oh no…’

“Hey, Natsu! I didn’t know you were here as well,” Ruby beamed.

“Uh, hey guys, didn’t expect to see you here,” Natsu responded awkwardly.

“Come on, Ava! Let’s go try the ice cream stand over there. You’ll love it!”

“Wait, did he say Ava?” Frost asked.

“But Avatar is a NetNavi,” Ruby argued. “There’s no way that girl over there is her. She looks like any other regular person that’s around our age.”

“This is what I was afraid of,” Natsu muttered. “Guys, let’s all go back to the villa and talk. Draga also knows about this.”

“Draga? Does she know about Avatar’s secret?”

“Yes, because she was also there when it happened,” Natsu replied.

After Netto’s wound was bandaged up with a colorful blue Band-Aid, he and Ava were happily eating some ice cream. Ava just got plain vanilla on a small vanilla cone. Netto’s was much bigger with two scoops of ice cream (Red Sun* and Cake Batter) on a waffle cone covered in chocolate sprinkles. They were happily consuming their frosty treats at a nearby bench.

“Wow, this creamy delicacy is very cold and sweet,” Ava smiled.

“That is ice cream,” Netto explained. “It’s a very popular treat on a hot day.”

Her short time in the real world was a very enjoyable experience, may her future grant her more cherished moments like this.

- Sachiel Villa -

After Avatar returns to the PET, Netto happily strolls back to the villa in a good mood. However, as he enters, it quickly sours when he sees everyone gathered in the living room.

“Hey, everyone, is there something wrong?”

“Hey, Netto,” Natsu uttered. “We gathered everyone to discuss something.”

“What about?”

“It’s about Avatar,” Draga clarified. “Natsu, Ruby, and Frost saw you take her to the ocean, materialized. Albeit using her

The brunette froze in fear as he felt the tension in the air. Did they find out? He felt the tension slowly suffocate him.

“Netto, it’s okay. It was a matter of time before they figured it out.” Avatar assured, “I’ll tell them. I do feel guilty for keeping this from everyone.”

“Ava, it’s all right, we’re not going to judge you too harshly,” Draga assured. “Just come out.”

Avatar accepts Draga’s words and materializes into the real world in front of the entire group. They were astounded that a NetNavi could enter the real world without any sort of substantiating machinery. 

“This is amazing! A NetNavi that come into the real world?!” Spectra beamed.

“To think that Dr. Cerys is capable of doing this,” Sherrice marveled.

“To be honest, my true creator is not her but someone more powerful.” Avatar confessed, “It’s Chaos, the goddess of creation and destruction. The reason why my programming is different from other NetNavis is because of her. I was sent here to protect Draco and the new Aaron, Netto, from harm.”

“So, you were just sent here to protect Netto from danger?” Angel asked.

“Yes, even though this Universe has been peaceful for at least several centuries, the others are not so lucky,” Avatar explained. “If we go to the other dimensions and if the wrong people find out I have this special ability, they may kidnap me and do unethical tests on me to try to copy my abilities onto a new group of Navis for their own selfish desires and ambitions. In other words, they could weaponize my abilities for their personal use.”

“That sounds very scary,” Joan shivered.

“To think that there are people out there that would use others for their own selfish gain, how horrible,” Delia added.

“No, it is true,” Sherrice replied. “In the past, there were people like that had strong connections to people in high positions of power causing a cycle of corruption to emerge. It was because of their selfish ambitions of power and wealth that doomed humanity to two Umbra Incidents. Sure we have treatments to save most people from turning into an Umbra, but it takes one decaying society or corrupt government or both to ruin it all.”

“That’s pretty terrifying…” Stacy added.

“If Avatar fell into the wrong hands then a war is sure to break out and complicate things in our mission to save Purity and her Zeva,” Bulleta worriedly said. “I can see why this type of ability can be easily abused.”

“That’s not all,” Avatar explained. She presses her chest emblem and appears at the girl that Ruby, Frost, and Natsu saw at the beach earlier. “My DNA Duplication is responsible for my human appearance, this is my default form. I can alter it if I come into contact with any human DNA sample from hair or other liquids. They are added to my database.”

“That’s pretty cool,” Ruby commented.

“Do you think that Reina and other Navis can use it?” Spectra asked.

“It is possible but it may be an inferior version,” Avatar explained. “If anyone tried to copy my abilities it may not be the same.”

“An inferior version? Was it a safety measure from Chaos?”

“Yes, she has taken into account that other people with bad intentions would kidnap me to copy and weaponize my special abilities,” Avatar answered. “So, anytime they try to duplicate them, they will have a hard time due to the complex coding.”

“But I’m worried…” Netto said with concern. “What if you get deleted? Do you have any backup data?”

“Don’t worry about that, I have a ‘special’ code that will activate if I get deleted.” Avatar assured, “So you have nothing to fret over.”

“Whoa, Chaos does think of everything to make sure her children are safe despite her chaotic nature,” Angel commented.

“Regardless, I think it is cool!” Ruby acknowledged. “Think of the possibilities that her abilities could do if it was put into the future development of NetNavis. It could solve the issue of bringing NetNavis into the real world to fight against crime and if there was another Umbra Incident in the future.”

“I agree!” Delia approved, “I want to see the real, human world as well. Think of all the food and drinks we could eat!”

“Yeah, I want to touch the bugs!” Amar added.

“I want to play and compose music with Aeon!” Radioman resounded. 

“Painting with Spectra would be a dream come true,” Reina bubbled.

Avatar became a bit embarrassed as her NetNavi friends were rambling on about the possibilities of what to do once they crossed over to the real world. Most want to experience see and feel the different smells and textures with their operators while some want to experience it alone. In her mind, she was grateful for the relationships she forged with her friends, both human and NetNavi. Maybe a future of co-existence is possible in this Universe.

- Aenon Town [Brosnan Dock] -

The flowing morning, Netto and his group were currently gathered at the docks. Sherrice was the one guiding them to her family-owned yacht.

Netto was wearing a different attire of clothing today. It was a sleeveless, orange hoodie jacket with a vertical white stripe over a black tee shirt with light blue trimmings on the sleeve, a different pair of black shorts with the same yellow highlights, and different length black socks. The only articles of clothing and accessories that kept on were his bandana, yellow scarf, diamond necklace, and orange shoes. Additionally, he wore a blue beaded bracelet on his left wrist with a feather charm that had Avatar’s symbol on it. However, something caught Avatar’s attention, there was a scar on his left arm.

“Netto, where did you get that scar?”

“It was from a train explosion,” Netto explained. “I was fortunate enough to survive. If it wasn’t for Draga and Angel’s help, I wouldn’t know what to do.”

Avatar felt bad for Netto, at least he was still alive and well, but that scar was a reminder of that traumatic event.

Everyone excluding Netto never actually rode a luxurious, privately owned boat and was amazed at how spacious it was inside. Some stairs lead downstairs to a humongous room with windows that give the guests a breathtaking view of underwater. They saw some of the local fish swimming past the boat. Several white couches with gold trimming and unbelievably soft pillows were neatly placed around a wooden circular table with a glass cover and a bouquet of hyacinth flowers.

“This is so cool!” Aeon commented. He takes a seat on one of the white couches and is amazed at how inhumanely soft they are. “Man, these couches are softer than my own bed back home.”

Joan and Spectra sat on the same couch across from Aeon. “I must say Sherrice, your family knows how to pick comfortable and high-quality furniture for their guests,” Spectra commented.

“I’m glad that everyone is enjoying your time here,” Sherrice smiled, pleased that everyone was having a great time on her family-owned boat.

Netto and Frost were admiring the fish swimming past the boat. “Look, Frost-kun, I think I saw a stingray!”

“That red fish over there is a striped red mullet,” Frost added.

“Look, is that a sunfish!” Netto pointed out. “This is amazing; this is my first time seeing one in the wild.”

Frost silently looks as the giant fish swims idly by.

“Hey, Frost, I know this might be a random question, but do you want to be a marine biologist in the future?” Netto asked.  

“Of course,” Frost answered. “When I was younger, my parents would frequently take me to all kinds of aquariums around the country. I guess that fueled my interest to become a marine biologist.”

“Really, so what do you want to do when you become one?” Netto asked.

“I want to go research marine life in the coldest regions of our world,” Frost answered.

“Really, that’s cool,” Netto commented.

“Wait, you don’t think that’s weird?” Frost asked.

“No, of course not, I think exploring the coldest place could be exciting,” Netto beamed. “Who knows, you could find some new life that haven’t been explored yet.”

“That is true,” Frost agreed. “Not every mile of the ocean has been explored yet, so I guess that could be a secondary reason. Thanks, Netto, I really need that.”

“You’re welcome,” Netto replied.

Both he and Frost continue to watch the marine life swim past.

- Amphitrite Island -

The island didn’t offer much other than the mysterious Scyphozoan Blue Court that was stationed at the right side of an extinct volcano and a skyscraper building that had three connecting towers featuring the Cilla Preservation Logo.

When they arrived, employees from the Cilla Preservation greeted them. Amongst them was a 30 year-old-man with neatly combed, light brown hair with bangs that were swept to the side and rusty red eyes. He wore a different colored suit than the other employees.

“Hello, Ms. Sherrice and Rideman,” he greeted. “It’s good to see you again, and I see you brought friends with you.”

“Hello, Mr. Calder,” Sherrice greeted. “I have great news to show you. One of my new friends, Netto, is the new Aaron.”

“Are you serious?!”

“That’s amazing, Netto, your status as the new Aaron has given us a new opportunity!” a female employee beamed, “Your contribution will help us get a better understanding of this historical building.”

“Uh, how?”

“You see, Netto, after 1,000 years have passed since the last Aaron was awakened but during that time, we lost the key.” Mr. Calder explained, “We were hoping that you would solve our predicament on this front.”

“Of course,” Netto beamed. His interest, curiosity, and excitement were piqued to solve another mystery of this world. Especially one involving the mysterious court.

- Scyphozoan Blue Court [Universe B Version] -

Seeing the real thing in person was very different than seeing it from a book. Just like its description, four pillars had letters carved into each one, representing the four dimensions. In the middle was the abstract jellyfish structure that seemed to cover the red diamond underneath. It illuminated an ethereal red light under the afternoon sun. Netto ponders if it was on 24/7. Just imagine what type of sight it would be if the huge diamond remained glowing during the dark hours of the night. He goes up to the ‘A’ Pillar and touches it with his right palm. He retracts out of surprise when he feels green energy pulsing underneath it.

“How long has this structure been running?” Draga asked curiously.

“For at least 2,000 years,” Mr. Calder explained. “Historians believed after the first Umbra Incident, the Aaron and Zeva of that Era along with the Agni and Zaki created it to kick start the first Process of Discovery Trial that enveloped the entire world. It was called Alethea, the truth and faith to save humanity from extinction. As you can see, humans are still around today meaning that it was a success and humanity came back with their unlocked powers to reclaim their home from the Umbras’ hold. It was a pivotal point in human history!”

“Oh yeah, I remember that,” Aeon replied. “I had to do a four-page essay on it.”

“So, this machine has been running for more than 2 millennia?” Bulleta asked, “Is there any way to access it?”

“Unfortunately, no,” Mr. Calder replied. “From our observations, you need a special key in order to access it. Rumors and speculations believe it will take you to a special realm that resembles our current internet.”

“You mean this machine has its own network?” Delia piped up.

“But that’s impossible, sure, we might had the materials at that time but there was no way to construct one until much later,” Draga argued. “In fact, our current Internet is dated to be at least twenty years old. I know this because my auntie knows to construct NetNavis from my grandfather, who was part of the team that is responsible for the creation of the modern-day Cyber World and Internet.”

This gets Netto’s attention, Draga’s family was partially responsible for this Universe’s creation of the Internet. That could explain why Dr. Cerys does have the knowledge to construct NetNavis from scratch.

“Maybe they did at that time but they probably used that knowledge to build only the network of the Blue Court since human civilization was falling apart during that era.” Mr. Calder debated, “I doubt any empires back then were still standing after the Umbra Incident occurred. Regardless, that piece of history has yet to be solved.”

As Mr. Calder rambles on about the history and preservation of the Scyphozoan Blue Court. Netto stealthily takes a closer look at the structure and finds a weird device that seems awfully similar to a computer console that was underneath the giant, glowing red diamond.

“What is this?” For some reason, he could understand the language. ‘Could this be one of my abilities as an Aaron? To read the lost language of ancient relics?’ The machine reminds Netto of a primitive keyboard. Was there a way to activate it? He unconsciously pulls on his necklace and looks down absentminded at his prized possession. His birthday gift from his newfound friend from their connected dreamscape. Could it be the fabled key? While everyone else was distracted by Mr. Calder’s ramblings, he removed it around his neck and carefully inserted it into a hole that was a perfect fit to the necklace. Click!

Suddenly, the red diamond’s glow intensifies and the pillars begin to flicker.

Before Netto could answer, he disappeared into the red light. This caught everyone off-guard and were shocked by the events that transpired.

“What the fuck, just happened?!” Aeon cursed.

“Did Netto reactivate the machine?” Sherrice asked baffled.

“Forget that? How the hell are we going to get him back?” Isla fretted.

The rest of the group hurriedly gathered around the console that Netto messed with earlier.

“The mother- I swear what incur him to touch it?” Angel fumed.

“Is there a way to locate him?” Joan asked.

Draga looked down at the foreign wording inscribed on the console and gasped, “Guys, I think this might be an ancient computer console. Look, Netto inserted the key there.” She points at the necklace the brunette inserted into the hold earlier.

“How about we remove it?” Spectra suggested, “We can -”

“NO! I FORBADE YOU!” Draga interrupted. Her sudden outburst caught everyone off-guard. She took a deep breath before continuing. “Guys if you try to remove the key, we would accidently trap Netto there.”

“Oh shit, if that’s the case then what other solution do you have?” Aeon asked. He was obviously worried about his friend’s safety.

The winged brunette took a closer look and noticed something odd, “Why are there four plug-in ports here?”

“Oh, that was us,” a female Cilla employee with a braid replied. “We were testing to see if we could connect the ancient machine to a Network to test some theories and speculations. It sort of worked and they were connected to the machine which indicates that a network in the Blue Court does exist. However, we were unable to plug in our Navis to investigate further.”

Isla retrieves her PET and points towards the plug-in ports. “Hey Amar can we plug into it?”

“Surprisingly yes,” Amar replied. “I don’t know how Netto managed to do it, but the ports connected to the machine are online and open. Any NetNavi can plug in and out.”

“Then that means our Navis can enter and explore the Court’s Network!” Isla beamed.

“Okay, so the plan is to send all our Navis into the Scyphozoan Blue Court’s Network, locate Netto and Avatar, and return them here,” Sherrice articulated.

“Whoops, we were so focused on Netto, that we forgot her,” Ruby noted.

“No time for that we got friends to save,” Isla replied. “Plug-in! Amar!”

“Radioman!”

“Mira!”

“Delia!”

“Reina!”

“Rideman!”

- Ocean Network: Betta Server -

‘Everything feels so heavy…’ Netto thought, ‘My body, mind, and soul feel like lead. Where am I?’

“…Netto….Netto?” He could hear his Navi’s voice but it was distant. Where was she? “Netto…Wake up…You’re alive…Can you hear it?”

‘Hear what?’ Netto mentally asked. He paused and he heard the sound of water all around him. His mind imagines betta fish and jellyfish swimming above his underwater dream. ‘Wait, am I underwater?’ That realization made his eyes wide open and sat up on the seafloor. To his utter surprise, he sees Avatar standing over him.

“Avatar? What are you doing here? Where am I actually? Is this a dream?”

“No, you aren’t dreaming Netto,” Avatar replied. “We aren’t actually underwater. We’re actually inside a network.”

“A network? Are you sure this is not the dream? I don’t know many internet servers that have an underwater theme excluding an aquarium.”

Avatar goes up to Netto and pinches both of his cheeks.

“Ouch, okay, okay, it’s not a dream if I can feel the pain,” Netto whined. His cheeks were red and sore after Avatar’s pinching. He stands up and looks around. He could see betta fish in various shades of red, blue, and purple swimming around as well as some pink jellyfish. “Is this really a network? But I don’t see a screen anywhere?”

“Let’s look around and see if we can find a screen we can access.” Avatar suggested, “Netto, I advise you stay close to me. We don’t know what type of security programs we will confront and I’m afraid you might get hurt. You don’t have the proper defenses and weapons to go against them. If you get severely hurt, you may not recover.”

“I can take care of myself,” Netto insisted. “Though you are right on this. If I’m actually on the Internet then I might be in trouble. I’m not in Cross Fusion and I’m not sure if I can use Battle Chips here. But I can help you out by temporarily stunning them.”

“Let’s go,” Avatar started. The grey Navi was in the lead with Netto following behind her, wandering aimlessly around the vast simulation of the underwater sea.

Netto was curious yet on edge about the strangeness of this network. ‘This network is supposed to be ancient right? Why does it look more advanced than the current version of this world?’ As they continued their journey, they spotted a floating screen up ahead. “Is that?”

“It looks like a database to me,” Avatar examined as they approached the mysterious pop-up amongst the endless bound of the simulated sea. “Let me see if I can access it.” She goes up to the screen and attempts to interact and manipulate it. To her surprise, it can be accessed. She chooses the search option and types into it. Out of curiosity, she typed what network they were in.

Ocean Network – Betta Server

The Ocean Network is only for humans and those containing the remnants of Cyanea to access during and after the Alethea Process has commenced. Once the process is finished and the inhabitants of A, B, C, and/or D have returned back home, the server is only accessible to the Dragon Gods, Draco and Purity, their vessels, and the people that have traces of Cyanea’s power.

“Very restrictive, but wait who’s Cyanea? Who is this person or NetNavi’s connection to this?” Netto asked.

“I think I know who it is, Netto.” Avatar guessed, “Remember at the library when you were researching Universe B’s past?”

“Yeah, I remember.”

“I was looking through the digital version of the Relics of the Forgotten Religions Book and came across a code that was in the Caesar Algorithm.” Avatar explained, “The being’s real name is Cyanea.”

“So, you’re saying that Cyanea is the one that Draco and Purity created and then later perished?”

“I’m afraid so,” Avatar replied. “Though I can understand why. How would you feel if your creation that you were proud to create suddenly died, and you had no way of bringing it back? You probably find a way to bury that sorrow, sometimes forget they even existed.”

“Is that a terrible thing to do?” Netto argued, “How could…” He suddenly remembers the vision of his family and friends standing over his grave. “Oh, I see…To forget the pain.”

“Let’s see, what else can I look up?” Avatar deflected. She searched Scyphozoan Blue Court. The article was the same as the book, but there were additional details that caught the duo off-guard. There wasn’t one but a total of four. Four of the same building but each structure was slightly different depending on the dimension. She looked up the Diamond Court keys and was shocked that two existed. “No way…”

“There’s four Scyphozoan Blue Courts and two keys?”

“Well, we know that you have one of the keys but who has the other one?”

“Could it be the new Zeva?” Netto guessed.

“It is possible, but we have no way of who actually possesses it.” Avatar doubted, “Though I wouldn’t be too surprised if the new Zeva was the new holder. Let me see where the other three are at.” She clicks a few links and types some keywords onto the screen. The results show the locations of the other courts and their server names.

“Wait, are those locations right?” Netto asked. He recognized one of them but not the other two. “Could they be in the other dimensions?”

Scyphozoan Blue Court Locations

After the success of the first one, Draco, Purity, and their vessels collaborated with their loyal followers, the Agni and the Zaki to create three new ones and station them at Universe’s A, C, and D in case an Umbra Incident Occurred in those dimensions. 

• Agassiz
  • Location: Nozomi Island
• Canary
  • Location: Kulvir Island
• Danio
  • Location: Tidal Island

“So, each dimension has one Scyphozoan Blue Court?”

“Yes, but you only recognize your home dimension?”

“To be clear, Nozomi is between Shīsā Island and Jawaii.” Netto replied, “However, it is possible to travel there by boat but I never went there since it doesn’t have anything interesting in it. To think an ancient machine is stationed there.”

“Then, I’ll copy the locations into the PET,” Avatar replied. “Who knows it could be useful in the future.” She quickly sends the data to the mobile device. Netto hears a ping from a PET indicating the directions of three locations were successfully received.

“Oh, I almost forgot, could you look up Cyanea?”

Avatar types up the being’s name only to be blocked.

Access Denied. Please get permission from administrators Draco and Purity.

“Damn, I know maybe I can contact Draco! He could allow us access and we see the full contents.”

“It’s worth a try, but he would not answer,” Avatar doubted. “It might be a sensitive topic for him.”

“Hey, Draco!” Netto called as he touched his scarf. “I want to talk to you about something!”

No answer.

“Why isn’t he answering?”

“As I said before Netto, Cyanea is a sensitive topic for them, so forcing them to comply isn’t the best strategy.”

Netto idly walks to the side with visible frustration. He managed to solve one mystery only to get denied to solve another. One question was answered only for many more to pop up. Why can’t things be simple for once? Though Avatar was right, he can’t force Draco to give them the answers. If Cyanea was the being that Draco and Purity created then, was this being considered their child? Or sibling since Draco and Purity were siblings as well. Did they doted on Cyanea or did they let her do her own thing? So many questions were swirling in his head about Cyanea’s true identity and their relationship with two younger Dragon Gods.

“Netto…I understand you want to know more about her.”

Netto was caught off-guard as he recognized Draco’s voice.

The black and red God appeared before the duo. Avatar was taken aback as this was her first time seeing him. His appearance was uncannily similar to Netto’s; he could pass off as his older sibling.

“Hello, Avatar or Ava,” Drago addressed.

“You know my true identity?” Avatar asked.

“Of course, just because I’m mostly dormant within Netto doesn’t mean I can’t see what he is seeing. He is my vessel.” Draco boasted, “But I do know that you are created by my mother, Chaos, and you were sent here by her order to protect me and Netto.”

“Yes, that is what Chaos instilled into me, but she doesn’t mind if I deviated from it,” Avatar recollected.

“That’s mother all right,” Draco commented. “Always allowed us free-range, that’s how conflicts started. The only time she’s stepped in is to save us from becoming eternal lab rats.”

“Anyway, Draco could you allow us access to see Cyanea’s info section?” Netto deflected.

Draco paused for a bit before answering, “Yes, of course.”

Avatar was stunned at the dark dragon God’s answer. “But why? I thought you would be more reluctant to share it.”

“It’s been more than whenever how long it’s been. I think that’s enough time for me to grieve and move on,” Draco answered. He goes to the screen and grants access to the redacted article. All the text and pictures that were once obscured were now vivid and visible for Netto and Avatar to see. A tightly guarded secret, now entrusted to them for their own eyes to see.

The first file showcases Cyanea and details her different forms. Universe A, B, C, D, and her true form.

The picture details all of her known forms.

Her true form depicts a tall woman with a pale-skinned face and a black body suit. She had a pair of light blue translucent wings on her back. Her helmet hair was flowing like scattered data in different shades of blue. A light cyan diamond on her forehead. Gems where ears should be, seem to be projecting wings. She wore a tight white and blue dress-like armor with white gloves with cyan rights that almost reached the shoulders, cyan garter belts, and knee-length blue boots with diamond patterns. Additionally, there were cyan rings around her neck.

Her ‘A’ Form is where she looks the most Navi-like. She had no data flowing out of her helmet and instead was a solid teal helmet with a mint green diamond on the forehead, seafoam green gloves, a grey bodysuit, matching dress with the skirt being a darker shade but still had cyan trimmings with blue shorts with cyan gens underneath, and teal knee-length boots with different diamond patterns. Finally, her back and her translucent wings were a mint green.

‘B’ Form resembles her true form the most. The only difference is the colors were red and pink. Her translucent back and ear wings were a salmon pink. The bicep gloves were brink pink, the dress was a solid, crimson red with a similar design but the skirt was different with floating diamonds around it, and her matching brink pink boots were similar to the true form. 

Universe C was two beings instead of one to give the impression that they were a pair of twins. They seem to be the shortest out of all the different forms. Both beings had orange and yellow in their color schemes but they only had one wing on their back instead of a pair. The twin beings were each labeled C-A and C-B.

C-A had orange helmet hair with a gradient of orange, yellow, and cyan. However it seems to flow from the top instead of the bottom, resembling a ponytail, her diamond was yellow, her dress resembles a frilly dress with only one cyan garter belt instead of two, and orange boots with diamond patterns. Her translucent ear wing was a light yellow.

C-B’s helmet was gray instead of orange with the gradient hair being orange, yellow, and grey. Her dress was replaced with a tight orange tank top, white shorts, bicep gloves were yellow, a single cyan garter belt, and grey diamond-patterned boots. And the same colored translucent back and ear wing. The interesting detail was data was circling it.

Finally was Form ‘D’. Her helmet was drastically different as it was white with lavender trimmings and the forehead gem was lavender. The gloves remained white. Her armored dress was white but the skirt was purple, lavender straps wrapped around the chest were coming from her chest diamond, garter belts were replaced with straps, and knee-length boots were white with diamond patterns. Lastly, her translucent ear and back wings were light purple. However, they were shaped differently with the back wings being riddled with holes.

“This is…What Cyanea looks like?”

“But I thought Cyanea perished?” Netto asked.

“Well, yes and no,” Draco replied. “The original one perished but we managed to collect enough fragments to create a copy. However, this one cannot manifest normally in the dimensions without the risk of defragmentation. When she appears in any dimension, her appearance is drastically different to reflect the state of a dimension of her manifestation.”

“But what’s Cyanea’s connection to the Scyphozoan Blue Court?” Netto asked, “What is her role within the system and the whole Alethea process?”

“The Court System itself is named after her,” Draco replied. “Purity and I along with our vessels and our loyal followers created a copy and implemented it into the system. If an Umbra Incident occurred in A, C, or D, the copy will appear and take on one of the four appearances on screen. There she will broadcast a worldwide message before sending the surviving humans away via the Alethea Process.”

“The Cyber Zone?” Avatar and Netto asked baffled.

“Yes, if there is a scenario in which multiple Aletheas are happening at the same time. The residents in the other dimensions cannot occupy the same space and instead are sent to different parts of the Cyber Zone,” Draco explained. “It is hard to explain but if Universe A and C had their trials at the same time then they will be transported to different parts of the zone. However, we have anticipated this in advance and provide special devices that they can use to contact the other dimensional residents. We also provided accommodations so they didn’t worry about running out of food or water. Additionally, if someone gets seriously injured they are transported to a facility to get healed.”

“So, if anyone gets sent to the Cyber Zone then they don’t die?” Avatar morbidly asked.

“Yes, the Cyber Zone was sent in place so any surviving members don’t perish accidently,” Draco explained. “If anyone tries to murder someone deliberately then they are sent to a facility where they are imprisoned until the Process of Discovery Trial is completed.”

“That serious?” Avatar commented.

“Still, I had some trouble going through the third trial, would the rest of humanity from the other three dimensions handle it?” Netto doubted.

“I’m sure they will Netto,” Draco assured. “Humanity has avoided extinction many times before. Getting through another one wouldn’t be hard for them. Trust me, I’ve seen things countless times.”

“That is true,” Netto replied. “I think Enzan, Meiru-chan, and the others would be okay without me if an Umbra Incident did occur. I do trust they will handle it themselves.” He looks around the undersea-themed network. The betta fish and jellyfish continue to swim around idly. “How big is this network? I feel like it goes on forever.”

“Well, would you believe that it is actually small compared to the actual server?” Draco explained, “Server Betta is much bigger than you think.”

“Really, how can this be small compared to the real server of this dimension?” Netto asked. “How and why is Ava here then?”

“Because she’s your NetNavi,” Draco explained. “Any NetNavi that is operated by the Aaron or the Zeva would automatically be given an administer role. However, there are exceptions. Any NetNavis that you previously operated cannot be sent to the Admin Section. It must be Navis that you are currently operating.”

“So, Rockman can’t be given an administrator role? Since he is operated by Papa?”

“Unfortunately, yes,” Draco replied. “Unless you operate him again.”

“That’s going to be a problem,” Avatar doubted. “I’m his current NetNavi. How can Netto operate two NetNavis at once?”

“Hey, it can’t be that hard, I operated both Rockman and Gutsman when I was visiting Choina with Dekao to visit Jasmine and her grandfather. Although, it is challenging due to holding two PETs and once and sending battle chips to both at a crucial time,” Netto noted. “Even if two Navis are occupying the same PET, there is a concern of strain from sending battle chip data to different Navis. This could be a tricky challenge. This is similar to the time when a copy and I sent two different Soul Unison chips during the Beastman Incident.”

“Beastman Incident?”

“Oh, you weren’t there, you see Rockman and I were Net Saviors. Well, we used to be. Anyway, this incident occurred when I was assigned to look over a virus outbreak at a newly built science museum,” Netto fondly recollected. “It was a trick by Beastman, a Darkloid.”

“Darkloid?”

“A NetNavi that was created without human input,” Draco replied. “Apparently, they formed on their own.”

“That’s interesting,” Avatar commented.

“Anyways, when Rockman was confronting Beastman, he made a copy of me that said opposite things,” Netto continued. “Even sending battle chip data would confuse his systems. However, our bond overcame it and Rockman found the real me. We even Cross Fused!”

“Cross Fused? You mean you and Rockman fused together?”

“It is an interesting process. Cross Fusion is the fusion between the operator and their NetNavi,” Draco explained. “Though you need a high Synchro Rate for that.”

This info dump caught Netto off-guard, “Wait, Draco how do you know that? When we first met, you didn’t know much about my personal life.”

“Netto, you are my vessel,” Draco explained. “Even though I’m mostly dormant in your body, I can see whatever you see and have access to your memories.”

“Really? Even my most embarrassing ones? Please don’t say them to her!” Netto pleaded, “I don’t think I’ll live comfortably if someone has that knowledge.”

“Relax, I won’t squeal those,” Draco assured.

Netto breathed a sigh of relief but something else tugged at him. “Wait, how do I get out of here? Am I trapped?”

“What, no you can leave at any time,” Draco answered. “You couldn’t because this is your first time here.”

“Huh, if that’s the case then how do I leave?”

“I’ll create a portal beside the digital console so you and Avatar can exit.” Draco typed a few things onto another screen he conjured and typed on the digital keyboard. A portal similar to the ones that he seen Rockman and other NetNavis use to transport from location to location.

“I am curious, though,” Avatar pondered. “Even though this imitated sea is a part of the network. I thought I would be left behind, but I came with him. Although it is great that I wasn’t abandoned, I couldn’t help but wonder about the other group that can accompany humans if the Alethea Process were to happen in Universe A, C, and/or D. The people that have the remnants of Cyanea… Could it refer to the NetNavis?”

“Avatar…Are you saying that the people that contain the remains of Cyanea are the NetNavis?”

“That’s just speculation but what if it’s true?” Avatar inquired, “I mean if I was able to enter this network then it must be possible. Why else would NetNavis enter this space that is reserved for both humans and the people that contain the remnants of Cyanea?”

“What Avatar is saying could be correct,” Draco affirmed. “After Cyanea died, Purity and I spread most of her remains across the four dimensions. It is possible that after their creation was completed and humans started appearing someone must have found them and used them to create the NetNavi race, but I’m not too sure.”

“If that’s the case then oh no!” Netto gasped. “Everyone must be really worried!”

“You mean they might be planning a rescue mission?”

“Yes, when I entered the Court System’s Network, everyone with a NetNavi probably sent their Navis promptly to find me!”

“If that’s the case, then we should inform you that we are safe and are ready to reunite,” Avatar acknowledged.

“Is there a way to communicate with them?”

“Of course, there’s a program that will allow you to contact the people that enter the server.” Draco instructed, “Avatar, if you execute this code then this will allow you and your operator to communicate.”

“Here, goes,” the grey Navi runs it and something pops up. A button with a speaker phone beside the text, ‘Speak’. Click! “Hello?”

“Is there a way to see them?” Netto asked.

“Of course,” Draco replied. He brings up another screen in which they saw Mira, Amar, Radioman, Reina, and Rideman searching around another section of the server. They were looking around for any trace of Netto and Avatar within the Network.

“Avatar?” Mira recognized.

“Where are you?!” Delia cried out.

“Everyone came to find us?” Netto uttered.

“You really should put more faith in your friends, Netto,” Draco stated. “No matter, what you tell them. They will choose to come get you. It is their choice, whether they accept your words or not.”

Draco’s words stir something in Netto’s heart. It was true, his friends have helped them time and time again during times of crisis. His old friends did attend his funeral after all. He snaps out of his inner thoughts goes up to the mic and speaks into it. “Everyone, Avatar and I are okay! Let’s meet up in an area where we can regroup. There’s a portal you can plug out and return to the real world.”

“Netto, which area are you referring to?”

“Yeah, this entire network we are in is very vast and we can’t seem to find a starting point,” Delia added.

“Okay, give us a moment,” Netto assured. “I’ll send a beckoning light tower so it would be easier for you to find us.” He turns back to Draco and Avatar. “Is there a way for me to create one?”

Draco guides Netto towards the necessary coding procedure to construct the necessary structure. On the screen, a semi-realistic light tower that looks similar to a lighthouse appeared over a section of the network that abstractly resembled the beach.

“Avatar and I will be waiting there at the area with the abstract palm trees and newly constructed light tower!” Netto instructed. He moves away from the mic and asks Draco if he can change the portal to send them to where the location of the light tower and abstract beach was.

Draco teaches Avatar how to utilize the Scyphozoan Blue Court system. After his brief explanation and instruction, she manipulates the portal and it changes color. “There the portal will now take you to the area with the recently constructed light tower.”

“All right, everything is set, thanks Draco for trusting us with the information about Cyanea,” Netto thanked.

“No problem, Netto.” Draco added, “Now go reunite with your friends and return home.” He then disappears and both Avatar and Netto enter the portal that leads to the wider section of the Cyber Zone.

- Cyber Zone [Maris Grid] -

Netto felt like he was in a different part of the network but it felt more spacious than the underwater sea one if that was even possible. The area that he and Avatar were reminded him of an abstract painting of a small beach town by the waterfront, rendered in 3D. He turned around and saw the beckoning light tower albeit in the appearance of a lighthouse. He noticed a sign in front of it that labeled Helene Light Tower.

“Where are they?” Avatar observed.

He turned around and saw familiar figures coming towards them. To his shock, it was Mira and the other Navis.

“Everyone, over here!” Netto cried.

As the group united with Avatar and Netto, all of them were relieved that everyone was safe.

“Avatar, Netto! Man, both of you made us all worried!” Radioman said.

“We were walking through a vast desert,” Mira explained.

“To think that this ancient network is as expansive as our modern Internet,” Rideman commented. “Looks like we have a lot of work to do.”

“But first we need to get Netto out of here,” Avatar deflected. “I made a light tower so we can leave together. There’s a portal that will allow us to exit this realm.”

“How is everyone doing in the real world?” Netto asked.

“They’re fine but they’re waiting for you to return,” Reina replied. “Spectra, I found Netto and Avatar. They are safe and sound.”

Screens of the Navis’ operators appeared. They were a bit upset that Netto disappeared on them but relieved that he was still alive.

“Sorry, everyone, but I’m okay.”

“You better not do that again ever,” Isla scolded.

“She was worried about you, too,” Amar explained.

“Come on, let’s enter the Helene Light Tower and escape,” Avatar insisted.

- Amphitrite Island [Scyphozoan Blue Court: Version B] -

After entering the recently constructed lighthouse, everyone returned to the real world. All the Navis were back in their respective PETs and Netto was back.

“Phew, Netto’s back safe and sound,” Henshin said relieved.

“Netto, never do that again, you almost gave everyone a heart attack,” Angel scolded.

“Sorry, sorry, I didn’t mean to disappear on you,” Netto apologized.

“But still, I’m surprised that you figured out how to activate the court system on your own,” Draga noted.

“Hey, I didn’t know it would whisk me away to the network,” Netto protested.

“Netto, I am curious, what did you and your Navi discover in the Court System’s Network?” Mr. Calder asked, “I need to know what happened when you were inside.”

“Oh, boy, I’ve got a whole story to drop on you guys.”

It felt like hours to Netto as he had to explain all the events of what happened inside the network of the mysterious Scyphozoan Blue Court and the identity of the being that runs it, Cyanea.

- Sachiel Villa -

It was sunset when Netto’s group returned to the boat ride, everyone was silent after learning about the revelation regarding the Blue Court. The enter group was still reeling and processing all the information that Netto had explained earlier.

“I’m still amazed to think there is a fourth God,” Draga pondered.

“Yeah, but I’m not sure if Cyanea is considered a God,” Angel doubted. “I mean, Cyanea died a long time ago.”

“And yet there’s a copy maintaining that machine,” Stacy countered.

“This is…just too much to take in,” Isla added.

“Yeah, to think our NetNavis are descendants of her,” Aeon noted as he glanced at his NetNavi. “Could they be capable of free will?”

“If that’s the case then in the future, a NetNavi could go rouge if they so choose,” Frost added. “What a terrifying thought.”

Avatar was worried that the humans were doubting their trust in their NetNavis including the operators. However, Netto stands up for them. “Everyone, I understand how terrifying it is for an AI to become self-aware and turn on its creators. I had experienced NetNavis that would harm humans due to either spite or revenge. But not all Navis are like that! They’re our friends, don’t throw away the bond you have with them.”

“That is true,” Natsu added. “I’ve been treated Mira as a tool, but recently I realized I should treat her as a sentient being.” Mira smiled after Natsu’s comment.

“Hell, yeah, I’ve been with Radio ever since I was in middle school,” Aeon added. “There’s no way I’m abandoning him because of that.”

Avatar was relieved that Netto’s words managed to break through their fears of their Navis rebelling.

“You, too, Ava,” Netto smiled, looking at her small hologram form. “You’re my companion, too.”

“Netto… I think there is a possibility that Humans and NetNavi will co-exist in harmony in this world,” Avatar confessed.

“I agree with that sentiment too, Ava,” Netto agreed.

- Aenon Town -

“Um, where are we all going?” Ava asked. She was back in human disguise, but Ruby was the one guiding the group.

“We’re going to be showing you how humans have fun!” Ruby beamed.

“Have fun?” Ava asked.

“Yeah, like shopping, playing sports, etc,” Angel added.

The first stop was a local retail store, Ava was in awe at the wide selection of clothes. They came in various styles and colors.

“So, which clothes do you want, Ava?” Ruby asked.

“Um, there’s too many to choose,” Ava replied. “It’s hard to figure out what style I want, there’s too many options.”

“Here, try this style?” Sherrice insisted. She gives Ava, formal clothing akin to a school uniform.

Ava tries on the suggested clothes. Her outfit was a white collar, blouse with a red and blue plaid tie, matching pattern skirt, black blazer with red trimmings, black tights, and black dress shoes.

“So, how is it?” Sherrice asked.

“It’s very formal and classy,” Ava commented.

“I don’t know Sherrice, the outfit you picked is well-coordinated in terms of style and color, but it doesn’t fit Ava very well,” Natsu commented. “Here, Ava try these.” She gives Ava a different set of clothes for the blue-haired girl to try.

Ava’s new outfit was a purple and pink cardigan over a white shirt, jeans, and brown boots.

“There, a cute and comfy fit!”

“The cardigan’s sleeves are a bit loose and almost cover my hands,” Ava commented. She had to roll her sleeves so her hands could be seen.

“How about this one?” Angel suggested as she gave Ava, her clothing choice.

Ava’s last outfit was a pale blue, dress shirt with a fluffy cloud design sewn in, black leggings, and brown slip-ons.

“I like Angel’s choice the most,” Ava smiled. “I’ll get this outfit.”

“Really? I’m glad you like mine!” Angel beamed.

“Are there any other clothes you want to get Ava?” Sherrice asked.

“How about this one?” Ava chose a Panda-themed jacket that had white threads sewn on the sleeves.

After all the clothes were purchased, Ava was taken to an area where the locals would often play volleyball. As the rules of the sport go, each team must have six players. It took a while to discuss which people would be a part of each team and the names.

The names chosen were Team Feather and Team Leaf.

Team Feather

• Ava
• Netto
• Draga
• Natsu
• Angel
• Ruby

Team Leaf

• Frost
• Henshin
• Aeon
• Bella
• Spectra
• Bulleta

Sherrice would be the referee.

Ava was given the basics of the game. The objective of volleyball is to score more points than the opposing teams. The players have to hit the white ball over the net only with their hands to make sure it hits the ground of the opposing team’s half.

Throughout the game, Ava was fumbling a bit with her serves. However, near the end of the game, she got the hang of it. Netto was the one who made the final serve to bring Team Feather to victory.

- Aphrodite Restaurant -

Once night settled, Sherrice took everyone to a local restaurant that was well known for its delicious dishes. That was made from local fresh ingredients, making them very flavorful. A reservation was made in advance and a water escorts the entire group towards a big table arranged for 15 people.

“Ava, what do you want to order?” Netto asked. “Here, this is the drink menu. They have a decent variety.”

In the end, Ava orders Vyssináda, a sour cherry drink. When her order arrived, she took a sip and the taste was a perfect combination of sour and sweet. It was a totally different taste than the Tropical Fruit-Ade drink.  

“So, what should we order?” Angel asked. “Start with an appetizer or order our meals right away?”

“Hmm? How about the baked spinach & feta cheese pies?” Isla suggested. “They seem pretty good.”

“Why is hummus on the menu?” Spectra asked. “Isn’t that a type of dip?”

“It’s a different type of dip made from chickpea beans and served with pita bread,” Sherrice explained. “You will like it.”

“Sherrice what’s avgolemono sauce?” Ruby inquired, “It listed as one of the ingredients for the Dolmades dish.”

“It’s a popular and traditional soup in Mira,” Sherrice explained, “It’s a very creamy broth made from egg yolks and lemon juice.”

After a few minutes, they ordered the appetizers and waited for a while to arrive. Once the dishes arrived, everyone was amazed at how delectable they were presented. The three dishes that were served where the Saganaki, Spanakopita, and Dolmades.

The Saganaki was two slices of slightly burnt cheese topped with lemons.

The Spanakopita was at least half a dozen of flakey, triangular-shaped pies with spinach and feta cheese sticking out.

Finally, the Dolmades were cooked grape leaves that were tightly wrapped. The fragrant aroma was very strong though Ava detected the smell of meat from it.

Everyone takes a bite and Ava takes one piece from each dish to try. First was the Saganaki. She takes a bite. It was hot and gooey cheese came out when she removed it. She had to make sure not to make a mess. It was very crispy and melted in her mouth.

Second was the Spanakopita pies. The crust was very flakey and the taste from the combination of the feta cheese and spinach was very savory.

Finally was the Dolmades. It was odd to eat the leaves but she tried it after seeing Sherrice and Joan consuming it with the wrapping. It was very crunchy and savory.

After all the appetizers were consumed, they ordered the main dishes. Thirty minutes later, at least fifteen dishes came. There were various sandwiches, lasagna, and barbeque that were presented on the table. “Here, Ava, try this!” Netto offered. He gives Ava a barbeque skewer for her to try.

The blue-haired girl takes a bite. “Wow, this food is very savory!”

“I’m glad you like it!” Netto beamed.

After everyone finished their meal, dessert was served. It was a yellow cake topped with orange, pistachios, and honey. Ava took a bite and it tasted very sweet.

Another day had ended with happy memories that Ava stored in her memory banks. She should be grateful that she had time to make pleasant memories. Because she felt like they would be far and in between once the true journey begins.

EXTRA:

Ava Model Sheet

Netto's Travel Attire

Chapter Text

Netto was shocked to see everyone that he had interacted with, had gathered to celebrate his 13^th birthday at the Alista Beach House. He thought he was going to celebrate his first birthday alone with a small slice of cake of his choice and his homemade birthday card. He was pleasantly surprised that the inside of the beach house interior was adorned with colorful balloons, banners, and homemade paper chains. A banner with the words, ‘Happy 13^th Birthday’ was atop the other decorations.

“SURPRISE, HAPPY BIRTHDAY, NETTO!”

“What is all this?” Netto uttered.

“Your birthday, duh!” You think we wouldn’t celebrate our friend’s special day?” Ruby answered.

“We just want to make sure time here in Beach Flora is a happy one to remember,” Frost added.

Netto was taken to another white table where a birthday cake was sitting as well as some other food such as a bowl full of tropic fruit and a pot of his favorite food, curry.

“Alright, Netto, blow out the candles!” Isla instructed.

“Come on, Netto, blow out the candles on your cake,” Aeon beamed.

“Everyone…” Netto muttered. Even though his family and old friends are not with him anymore to celebrate his birthday, he has a new group of friends that will. Spending your birthday with those who genuinely care and love you will always make it special.

After the candles were blown out, Aeon gave him a cake cutter and Netto happily cut it. However, he couldn’t help to ponder about his old friends and family celebrating it with his new friends. Maybe, an older sibling to help cut his cake. Wait, why did that thought come up? Regardless, he slices the birthday dish into smaller, triangular pieces and shares them with his new companions.

When Netto tasted the cake, it was a mixture of the standard confetti and chocolate cake. He wondered who baked this cake. Was it Ruby? Or someone else.

Once everyone had eaten the cake and the other dishes, it was time to open the presents. Looking at the big pile of presents, he was curious about what they got him. But he needs to keep his expectations low as most kids his age don’t have a lot of money to buy expensive stuff, especially for special occasions.

His first chosen gift was from Ruby. The gift was small and wrapped in red foil. He carefully opens it and the revealed item was a homemade glass ornament. There were some imperfections such as some spots being slightly burnt and certain areas being deformed but the quality was good. “Uh, Ruby-chan, what is this supposed to be?”

“Oh, that’s a swan.” Ruby replied, “Sorry if the neck and beak are deformed.”

“No, it’s okay. I like it,” Netto answered.

His second gift was from Frost. The cyan-wrapped gift and white ribbon was about the same size as Ruby’s but he gently undoes the ribbon and wrapping to reveal a box of reusable, stainless ice cubes. “Uh, thanks. Frost-kun,” Netto thanked.

“Seriously, Frost? That’s the best you can come up with?” Ruby asked.

“I couldn’t think of anything better so…” Frost reasoned.

“At least it’s better than nothing…” Henshin added.

The third gift was from Angel. A simply wrapped, light blue present with a blue ribbon. He opened it and it was a hand fan with the picture of a dove on it. He waves it and it does cool you done.

The fourth gift was from Draga. After unwrapping her white and pink gift, it was a small sketchbook with some blue patterns on the black cover. “I know how much you like to draw on your tablet during your downtime, so I thought it is nice if you have a travel-sized one. Just in case your tablet broke.”

The fifth, R.C.’s gift was a navy blue with yellow stripes on it. Netto opens it and he has a huge stationary set. There was a huge assortment of different colored pencils, graphite pencils, drawing pens, and a few memo pads. He liked the different shades of blue in this set.

The sixth gift was from Stacy. The gift was black and white with some star patterns. Netto liked the presentation but as he opened it. Disappointment came when it was a copy of the Black Cat from Edgar Allen Poe. “Seriously, Stacy, you’re giving that to him?” R.C. chastised. “That’s a pretty morbid book.”

“What’s wrong about it?” Netto asked.

“Well, it touches on dark topics like alcoholism and animal abuse.” R.C. replied, “Not a suitable book for a boy’s birthday.”

“Hey, it was the friendliest one I could find in my collection,” Stacy argued.

Netto puts the book to the side and opens his seventh present. It was from Bulleta due to the purple, black, and white wrapping. He undid it and it was a small first aid kit. When he zipped it open, it was empty. Everyone was speechless about her gift. “Wow, Bulleta and I thought Frost and Stacy’s were bad,” Ruby commented. She flinches when Bulleta glares at her.

The eighth present was Henshin’s gift. The red and orange gift with a black ribbon was nothing more than a pair of sunglasses with an additional eyeglass case and a microfiber cloth for cleaning. No one commented on it. Another lame birthday gift.

“Here’s my gift, Netto!” Felica insisted. Her gift was red with a cyan ribbon. Netto takes it from her hands and opens his ninth present. He was confused by the device.

“Um, Felica, what is this?”

“It’s a charge drive,” Felica explained. “Since you are an Elec Type User, you can this to charge your electronic devices such as your tablet. Think of it as a portable charger. Use your electric power and it will slowly fill up the drive. Once it is full, you can recharge any electronic device.”

Netto follows Felica’s instructions and concentrates his energy on filling the charge. When he looked down, he could see that the object was filled with electric energy. “Wow, this is so cool! Thank you, Felica, I’ll test it back at Dr. Cerys’s place.”

The tenth gift was a combined effort of Aeon and Isla. He can tell by the green, grape pattern wrapping and the black and yellow ribbon. He opened it and it was a pack of battle chips. He could see at least two rare chips in this collection. “Thanks, Aeon and Isla. I really need this.”

Natsu’s pink and purple wrapped gift was the eleventh. He opened it and the revealed item was a fluffy blue blanket that was soft to the touch.

The pink and white present was Briana’s and his twelfth gift. To his surprise, it was a denim, hoodie jacket. However, it seems pretty thick. He wears it and the article of clothing fits him. “Briana, where did you get that jacket?” Isla asked. “It seems like it cost a pretty penny.”

“I got it on sale at a thrift store,” Briana replied. “It was a great deal and yes I did wash it.”

“Thanks, Briana. I love this one!” Netto beamed. “I look pretty cool in it!” He proudly displays himself wearing his new jacket.

“Okay, Netto! Here’s my gift!” Bella insisted. Netto removes the jacket and opens Bella’s red and blue polka-dotted present. The thirteenth gift was revealed to be a collectible, terrarium toy that was underwater themed.

“Whoa, I know this! A friend of mine named Shuuko-san has a collection of them back in my home dimension,” Netto recognized. “It looks nice, thanks, Bella.”

“I’m glad you like it!” Bella beamed.

“Don’t forget us, Netto!” Ciel reminded. “This is our gift from our group!” Ciel handled Netto, his fourteenth gift. It was wrapped in pink, blue, and green wrapping with a white ribbon. He unwraps it and to his utter surprise, it was a blue, stainless steel, thermos cap.

“And I thought, Frost, Stacy, Bulleta, Henshin’s were lame…” Isla commented.

The fifteenth gift was a combined gift from Malosi and Lani. The dragon fruit and lemon-themed present was a huge giveaway. He opened the fruit-patterned present and it was another terrarium, a collectible toy. Instead of underwater themed, it was totally different. Its design was spherical and was similar to a globe, but inside had small fruit charms such as lemons, grapes, mangos, and dragon fruit. “Thanks, Malosi and Lani, I really appreciate it.”

The final gift was Savannah’s. “Here, Netto, I believe this gift will be very useful to you.” The younger Lyron sibling gives Netto a crystal-themed gift. He opens it and a silver suitcase greets him. He undid the latches and he saw small jars that contained the fifteen known, elemental matters.

“Savannah, where did you get these?” Isla asked, “You know how hard it is to obtain some of these materials? Especially the Crimson and Lavender ones!”

“I have my ways, Isla,” Savannah enigmatically replied. “But Crystalman was a huge help.”

“Crystalman?”

“My NetNavi,” Savannah replied. Her Navi appeared on her left shoulder. He looks brand new and recently activated. There were red and blue crystals over his chest, arms, and legs like jagged armor. His black bodysuit had white stripes on it. His eyes were a crystal blue.

“Nice to meet you, Crystalman!” Netto greeted.

“I have known you through Savannah, her brother, and Radioman,” Crystalman replied. “Likewise, greetings.”

After sunset, it was movie night. The entire group decides to watch three movies before bedtime. Draga popped the CD of the first chosen film into a VCR below the flat-screen TV. Their NetNavis, Mira, Radioman, Amar, and Crystalman were also watching the film on their operators’ shoulders.

After the third movie concluded, everyone agreed to sleep over since it was close to midnight. Draga always kept a large selection of sleeping bags in case of sleepovers such as this. Netto smiled as this was a great way to end a birthday party. Once the lights were turned off, everyone went off to sleep, but Netto was still awake. He smiled as this was the greatest birthday, he ever had. He closes his eyes as he sleeps with his new friends sleeping around him.

Chapter Text

After returning from Mira, Netto returned to Dr. Raphael’s office for his last CBT Session. Ava notes that this must have been part of his routine before she came into this world. It felt weird that this was Netto’s last CBT Session, but Avatar’s first time visiting the one treating Netto’s mental illness.

“Hello, Dr. Raphael,” Netto greeted.

“Hello, Netto. It has been a while,” Dr. Raphael replied. He notices Avatar’s hologram on his shoulder. “Oh, who is this? Did you get a new NetNavi?”

“Yeah, Dr. Cerys gave her to me as a gift,” Netto explained. “She’s been a great partner!”

“Netto…” Avatar blushed abashedly.

“Nice to meet you, Avatar,” Dr. Raphael greeted. “My full name is Aeson Raphael but you call me Dr. Raphael. I’m your operator’s current therapist; I’ve been treating him for the past month. So far, he has responded well to his session and medications.”

“I’ve been informed about his condition and the medication he is taking.” Avatar informed, “He’s been taking one pill every night.”

“Good, he’s been following the regime well,” Dr. Raphael commented. He was quite pleased that his patient was improving greatly.

“Um, Dr. Raphael, I think this will be our last therapy session for the month,” Netto informed. “I’m going to be ‘out of town’ for at least the rest of the summer.”

“I’ve heard from Dr. Cerys, you are going on an interdimensional trip right?”

“Wait, you heard it from her?” Netto gasped.

“Of course, Dr. Cerys and I are high school friends,” Dr. Raphael explained. “We still chat from time to time.”

“That’s pretty cool,” Netto commented. “To think you are still friends to this very day. I heard it was hard to have friends as adults, you know due to life being so busy.”

“That is true, Netto but if you make the time then you find close friends,” Dr. Raphael added. “Now, shall we begin our session?” Netto nodded as they went to work on his last therapy session before his big journey.

After the session was over, Dr. Raphael informed Netto about a huge shipment of his Benzo medication refills. It will arrive in a few days before the Summer Solstice. The duration of this refill could last from three to six months. However, Netto is unsure of how long he is going to be gone. At best at least the whole summer, at worst a whole year. Regardless, he was grateful for his psychiatrist’s help.

- Chroma Juice Bar -

Netto was happily consuming his pomegranate parfait as he listened to the background noise of the Juice Bar. Avatar was curious about the presentation. A clear glass cup filled with graham crackers, yogurt, condensed milk, and deseeded pomegranates. All of them were neatly layered inside the cup.

“So, Netto, how does it taste?” she asked.

“It’s very sweet,” Netto replied. “A bit bold and tangy from the pomegranates though. Do you want to try a bite?”

“Maybe next time, I don’t feel like it today,” Avatar answered.

Netto stops eating and stares blankly at his cup. “Hey, Ava.”

“Yes, Netto?”

“I was curious if Universe B is an alternate reality, how come I haven’t run into any counterparts of my friends or family here?”

“That’s a very good question,” Avatar pondered. “Honestly, it’s hard to say if there are any alternate versions in this world. Though it would be interesting if the two versions of one person meet up.”

“That is true when I went to Beyondard or Universe D, I saw alternate versions of Barrel-san, Colonel, Saloma-san, Masa-san, and Miyuki-san,” Netto pondered. “Though, Joan told me I look like Jerry even though I never met the guy.”

“Did you ask them if you can see a picture of him?”

“Not really, during that time, Joan was really reluctant to disclose information on that,” Netto answered.

“I see,” Avatar replied.

He takes another bite from his parfait as he stirs in his thoughts. “That gives me a better idea, how about we head to the library? I want to check something out. I was wondering what happened to the countries after the first Umbra Incident occurred,” Netto pondered. “Did they recover or were they left to ruin?”

“Well, since the discovery of the Elemental Matters, humanity seems to managing well.” Avatar commented, “Though doing some worldwide history would pass the time and quell your curiosity.”

“If you think so, then let’s do some research!”

- Beach Flora Library -

Netto returns to the local, magical fairy-tale library with curiosity. “Let’s see, where to look?”

“Netto, ask the librarian,” Avatar advised. “They have more knowledge on all the books here than the average person.”

“I know what a librarian is, it’s just been a while since I’ve been to the library,” Netto quipped.

“Was it for a writing assignment?” Avatar guessed.

“Yes,” Netto confessed. “Meiru-chan dragged me there to complete a few assignments, I was utterly bored.”

“And yet, here we are in the library researching about this universe,” Avatar pointed out.

“This is different, I choose to be here out of my own curiosity,” Netto quipped.

“If you say so, come on ask the librarian and inquire if they know what section the books are looking for.”

Netto heads to the librarian's desk and is shocked to see Natsu behind it.

“N-Natsu-chan?!” Netto sputtered. “What are you doing at the librarian’s desk?”

“Oh, I’m sorry I didn’t tell you this earlier, I’m working part-time as the librarian,” Natsu explained. “Mira is a great help in organizing the computer files.”

“It’s very dusty and cluttered in here!” Mira complained as she was reorganizing the files.

“I was wondering if you know where the history of the world books are,” Netto asked.

“Oh, if you go upstairs and to your left, there’s a section dedicated to World History,” Natsu instructed.

- Alden International Area -

The vibe of this area made Netto feel like he was in an old-fashioned library. The different hues of brown and other neutral colors on the various pictures of the work at different periods gave the brunette boy a sense he was inside an old-world version of the library. As he passes by a few sepia-colored gloves, his eyes spot Joan reading a book.

“Joan? What are you doing here?”

“Oh, Netto, just reading some history from Afra *” Joan replied.

“Afra? You mean, Affrique *?” Netto suggested.

“Close enough,” Joan corrected, “Afra is actually the rebuilt country of northern Africa. People speak mostly Arabic there. Dalia * is their neighboring country, I named my NetNavi after it.”

“That’s pretty cool,” Netto commented. “I’m looking for a book that details Japan, my home country.”

“You mean Nikkōko*?” Delia clarified.

“Nikkōko?” Netto repeated. “Is that my home country’s new name here?”

“Sort of, the people there still call it Japan and their native language is still Japanese but its official name is Nikkōko.”

“So, I need to look for a history book on Nikkōko then?”

“Delia and I can help you look for it,” Joan offered.

“Thanks, your help is appreciated,” Avatar thanked.

Joan just blushed at Avatar’s praise.

The search took a while to look around the ‘N’ section, but they managed to find a few books. History of Nikkōko. The duo sat at a nearby table and read through the history. What caught Netto’s eye was what happened to the country after the first Umbra Incident fallout.

Rebuilding of Japan – Birth of Nikkōko

After the destruction of Japan following the disaster of the Umbra Incident, Japan had difficulty recovering due to its population. Factors included a low birth rate, a work culture that encourages long hours and unpaid overtime, and the overpopulation of the elderly before the Umbra Incident.

For decades after the discovery of Elemental Matter was found in their country’s mines, recovery came but very slowly. Over time, different anthropomorphic species specifically from the ocean came and repopulated the area. However, due to this, there are not many humans left in Nikkōko’s population as they are considered a minority compared to the other species.

Netto was relieved that his home country in this universe managed to survive but was disheartened that the human population was comparatively smaller than the other humanoid species that now occupy it.

“Netto, is there something wrong?” Joan asked worriedly.

“It’s nothing… Something just got in my eye that’s all,” Netto smiled. But Avatar only notices that it is fake.

Was it really okay for Netto to find out the fate of his old home country in this universe? 

-  Computer Lab -

Netto was looking through various articles and researching more about Nikkōko. He was surprised that they were using the street name system instead of the blocking one. One of the beneficial additions as it made finding the places more convenient and less confusing. He decided to look up the locations he had memorized and searched on what their new names were.

Tokyo

Survived and renamed to Masato. It is still the capital of Nikkōko.

Shibuya

Survived and renamed to Agawa *. It is still a popular shopping and entertainment center but there wasn’t much of a nightlife hotspot.

Densan City

Destroyed during the Umbra Incident. This dampers Netto’s spirit so the city he spent most of his childhood was gone.

He types up the next keyword, his father’s workplace.

Ministry of Science

Destroyed during the Umbra Incident. Any government-funded facilities were either destroyed or badly damaged so they had to be rebuilt from scratch again. Netto believed that the facility that his father worked at was the latter. That evidence was backed up when the police of Beach Flora were unable to contact the facility.

So, it was highly likely that the Ministry of Science in this universe was destroyed and there wasn’t a replacement for it.

He wanted to stop but something in him persuaded the boy to continue in his search.

Akihara Town

Survived and renamed to Ayumi *. It is connected to Agawa.

He felt relieved when one part of childhood was still around in this universe. This piqued his interest though, he has to visit this country. It may be a different version but it is still his home.

“Netto, what are you thinking?”

“I’m going to visit Nikkōko,” Netto declared. “I want to see what my home country in this world is doing.”

“In this world?” Joan asked, “What are you talking about?”

“Joan this may be hard to believe, but I’m not from this world, I’m from another one,” Netto confessed.

“Another world?” Delia uttered.

“I did hear rumors that Netto might be from a different dimension but to think it was true all along,” Joan commented.

“Sorry for not telling you earlier,” Netto apologized. “I wanted to but you were dealing with your PTSD and I couldn’t find the time to tell you until now.”

“It’s fine, I’m getting better at it,” Joan replied. “Although, Nikkōko is very far from here though. It could take at least an 8-hour flight. Twice as long as Mira.”

“Well, if that’s how long it takes, then I don’t mind,” Netto replied. “I have been through a long hour flight before, besides I’m surprised the flight to Mira was pretty short.”

“Netto, flying across the world takes less than half a day due to the technological advancements in the airplane industry.” Delia explained, “This is all due to the Elemental Matters.”

“Really? That’s pretty cool,” Netto replied. “You mean that the mysterious Elemental Matters sped up the travel time when using flights?”

“That’s right,” Delia chirped. “Using the White Matter, airplanes can go faster in the air which makes the air travel faster, flight times shorter, and more convenient.”

“So, there’s still time to visit Nikkōko?” Netto asked, “That’s a relief. Though I should ask Sherrice since she does have a private jet.”

“Are you sure, it’s okay to ask that?” Joan asked. “Why are you so insistent on going to Nikkōko?”

“It’s for closure,” Netto replied. “I know it’s weird and it’s not the version I grew up with. But maybe if I see Japan one more time, maybe I could move on or something.”

“I understand, I too have some lingering feelings after the death of Jerry,” Joan sympathized. “I’ve been clinging to long to the past. The trauma I had complicated my feelings of grief with him. And I’ve been avoiding large bodies of water because of it. I know it’s dumb but…”

“No, it’s not dumb at all,” Netto assured. “After I completed my Process of Discovery Trial, I was very cautious around mirrors. I didn’t even want to be around them if there wasn’t any source of light especially at night. After I took my CBT Sessions, that behavior slowly went away. So no, it’s not dumb you don’t like being near water, because that’s where Jerry died, right?”

This struck something in Joan, “Yeah, I didn’t want to go even near the pool or the beach after that. It’s just my journey to recovery is much longer than yours.”

“Hey, take as much time as you need,” Netto assured. “Maybe grief is different for everyone. Besides, this is someone close to you. Of course, it’s going to take time to assess and properly grief for your best friend.”

“Is that so?”

Their conversation was cut short when someone got out of their chair and approached them. It was Ciel.

“Ciel-chan!” Netto recognized.

“Hello, Netto, I can’t help but overhear that you’re also going to Nikkōko,” Ciel revealed. She notices and recognizes Joan, “Oh, you’re Joan, right? I heard you’re recovering from PTSD due to a traumatic experience involving your friend.”

“I’m doing fine,” Joan assured. “So, you’re Ciel right? I’ve heard that you are close friends with Aile and Aimi.”

“Yup, Aile, Aimi and I have decided to bring Briana and Aimi’s mother on the trip!” Ciel decided.

“Briana? Now that you mention it, she was hanging out with her when I got Avatar,” Netto recollected.

“Okay, once you get everything sorted out with Sherrice, we’ll discuss more on which locations to go to at Nikkōko.”

“I actually have a list of places to go,” Netto replied. “After I speak to Sherrice-san, I’ll discuss more with you about which areas to visit.”

- Alista Beach House -

After getting permission from Sherrice, Netto gathered everyone that was available to go into the beach house to discuss further traveling plans to Nikkōko.

“Okay, Netto. Our final decided group is me, Aile, Ciel, Briana, and Aimi’s mom.” Aimi decided, “What about your group?”

“Well, I discussed it with everyone I talked to and brought them here to make their final decision,” Netto informed. “Everyone else is going to be in my group.”

“Angel and I are ready to go on the trip,” Draga replied.

“All ready to go,” Ruby beamed.

“I don’t have any plans but Nikkōko is on my bucket list,” Frost added.

“I have no events that conflict with the trip, so I’m free,” R.C. answered.

“Stacy insisted I come along,” Bulleta spilled. 

“Bulleta!” Stacy chastised.

“I’m all psyched and ready to go!” Henshin smiled. “This is the very first time, I went to this country.”

“I’ve never been out of the country before!” Felica beamed. “I’m excited now that I have the time to travel overseas.”

“What about you, Aeon and Isla?” Briana asked.

“We’re coming as well,” Isla answered.

“As for flight plans, we will be separated into three groups,” Sherrice explained. “Most of us will be in Netto’s group and will take my family’s private jet again. Ciel’s group will be on a separate flight, and Spectra’s group will Spectra’s private jet again.

“However, once we arrive in Nikkōko our group will be staying at Bella’s grandmother’s home,” Spectra replied. “Bella wants to visit her relatives and has invited me and Joan to accompany her there.” 

“Okay, but we’ll meet up in Agawa, tomorrow afternoon?” Netto suggested.

“Sure,” Joan smiled.

- Masato International Airport -

It was pretty surreal stepping into the alternate version of his home country. Just as the book stated Nikkōko was mostly overrun by anthropomorphic people. Most of them seem to have come from the ocean such as whales, dolphins, orcas, and some shellfish. Rarely did he see any humans.

He looks outside the airport’s windows and sees that most of the buildings are covered in greenery, a nearby bridge has a river underneath and it is very crystal clear. Some of the residents were seen swimming in it.

“T-this is what Nikkōko looks like?” Netto commented. It reminds him of a post-apocalyptic world that was overtaken by nature but is now being reclaimed by humanity. “This seems very different from the technological capital of the world.”

“Technological capital?” Draga asked, “Netto, is your country responsible for the various breakthroughs in technology?”

“Yeah, my grandpa, Tadashi Hikari helped Japan reach an age of prosperity in terms of technology due to contributions to Net Society. And it’s even reached greater heights because of Papa.” Netto explained, “To see such a great contrast seems jarring.”

“From the history books, Japan used to be on in our world but after the first Umbra Incident, many historians believed that it was barren since there were no records of survivors.” Sherrice recollected, “Then 100 years later, the Delphino * being to occupy it. Other species followed suit. Humans didn’t reappear in Nikkōko’s population until 300 years ago.”

“So that’s why, Japan looks like this? Because it was abandoned after the first Umbra Incident?” Netto inquired, “What happened to it during the Emeric War?”

“Nikkōko played a minor role during that time,” Draga answered. “It wasn’t as badly damaged.”

“That’s good…” Netto sighed in relief.

“Well, everyone, I believe it is time to separate ways,” Bella announced. “I’m going to be meeting and staying with my grandmother in the countryside.”

“See you in Agawa tomorrow!” Aimi cried.

“You, too, Aimi!” Spectra beamed.

“Well, Netto, this where we will part until tomorrow,” Joan commented.

“Take care, Joan,” Netto replied.

“You, too…” Joan added.

Bella, Spectra, and Joan bid farewell as they went to join an elderly woman wearing red robes and wearing a ribbon that was a similar design to Bella’s headband. Netto guessed it was Bella’s grandmother coming to pick her up.

“So, Netto, which place do you want to visit first?”

“Ayumi Town,” Netto replied.

“Why that town specifically?” Aeon asked.

“It’s because that is the equivalent of Netto’s hometown back in Universe A,” Avatar explained. “Netto and Joan were discussing travel plans and Ayumi Town was one of those places. I have a map that has the fastest route towards that town. We need to travel via bus in order to reach it.”

- Ayumi Town -

After everyone exited the bus station, they saw that the town was covered in pink. Most of the trees were pink and even the ground was filled with scattered cherry blossom petals. The Sakura Trees were in full bloom.

“Whoa! Look at all the trees, they’re all so pink and pretty!” Aimi commented.

“This is the first time I’ve seen a lot of Sakura trees bloom at once!” Ruby added, “I heard that they sell limited edition Sakura versions of food and merch during this season!”

“But something isn’t right,” Netto pondered. “In my old hometown, the cherry blossom season lasts from late March to early April.”

“Netto, maybe the rules are different here,” Avatar explained. “This is a different version of it. If you return to your home world in Universe A, I’m sure it will mostly be the same. Maybe you’re just homesick.”

“Could be…” Netto muttered.

“Okay, Netto if this is the alternate version of your old hometown, do you remember the route there?” Ruby asked.

“I doubt it, there have been many changes to this town,” Frost doubted. “The roads have been drastically altered.”

“Let’s see if we take a left here and go straight…”

“And Netto is not paying attention…” Isla commented.

“Shut up, maybe he’s trying to figure out the route from memory,” Aeon chastised.

“Can it be done? I mean this place is totally different,” Bulleta doubted.

“This way, guys,” Netto called.

After following the brunette boy’s directions, they came across a small neighborhood that had several houses, a school, a mansion, a small park with a squirrel statue, and a small hobby store. He was amazed at how different yet similar this part was to his old neighborhood. The pink trees and scattered petals that littered the ground gave it a peaceful yet magical look.

First, he walks by to the hobby shop. A reminder of Higureya. Second was the golden mansion that had a navy blue roof. A reminder of Yaito’s home. He then strolls over to a modern home with a red roof and yellow walls. A reminder of Dekao’s home. He trails over to a rustic, two-story home with a pink roof. A reminder of Meiru’s home. Finally, he stopped in front of a two-story, modern house with a blue roof. A reminder of his childhood home. He felt his eyes becoming watery. This alternate version of home. A distant childhood memory. He could remember the voices of his childhood flowing through him.

“Welcome, Netto-kun! What do you want to buy from my shop?”

“Netto, let’s hang out at my tree house!”

“Netto, battle me with Gutsman again!”

“Netto, do you want to listen to my songs?”

“Netto-kun, get up! You’re going to be late for school again! Mariko-sensei will be upset if you arrive late again!”

“Hey, Netto?” Ruby asked.

“Are you okay?” Frost added.

Netto zips past the two without a word and runs away.

“Netto, where are you going?!” Ruby cried.

The rest of the group rejoined in front of the modern, blue-roof house and were worried.

“What just happened?” Henshin asked baffled.

“He seems upset…” Stacy commented, “What could have triggered it?”

“Netto’s homesick,” Mrs. Tsubaki replied.

“Mom?”

“I was like that too,” Mrs. Tsubaki recollected. “It’s a very emotional experience.”

“I remember when we went to visit your old home, Mama,” Aimi remembered. “You seem very sad yet happy to return.”

“Is that what, Netto’s feeling?” Bulleta asked.

“We should probably go after him,” Isla suggested. “Don’t want him to get lost in this foreign country.”

“But where did he go?” Aeon asked.

“Come on, he couldn’t have gotten far,” Angel added.

- Industrial Remains -

It felt like he ran miles until he found a clearing of trees. He had to catch his breath after he felt like he had run a marathon. Once he did, he fell to his knees on the petal-covered ground. Tears streaming down his eyes.

“*sniff* It’s not fair…I thought I would get over this…” Netto sobbed. “I thought…” He starts to bawl his eyes out.

“Netto! Please don’t cry…” Avatar consoled, “Are you homesick?”

“*sniff* It’s just, I miss home…” Netto sniffed. “I thought by visiting that town I would get some closure but it just opened some emotional wounds… It’s hard…”

“Netto, did you miss your old home? Your family and friends?” Avatar asked.

“*sniff* Yeah, it’s just saying goodbye isn’t easy…” Netto replied. “*sniff* I guess I didn’t say goodbye to them either.”

“Netto…” Avatar muttered. She took a deep breath and materialized in the real world. The grey Navi sat next to her operator as a form of moral support. “Are you okay now? Did you get it all out?”

“Yeah, I feel a bit better…” Netto answered. The tears had dried but his eyes were still red and puffy.

“Netto? What do you miss most about your old home?” Avatar asked. “During the time, I’ve been with you. You never mention in detail what life was like back in your home dimension. You did mention to me about your family, your old NetNavi, and your friend. But not your old, everyday life. So tell me, what was your childhood like?”

“My old life, huh?” Netto mused. “Well, okay, for most of my life, I lived a regular life in Akihara Town. I didn’t remember much when I was at least five, but I do know I grew up next to Meiru-chan. Dekao-kun used to be a bully. He even defeated me so many times when I was only operating a NetNavi before I got Rockman. After I met him, I felt like my life changed forever. It started when my house’s kitchen oven caught on fire and when I had to rescue Meiru-chan from the same incident with her oven. Turns out, a Navi called Fireman was responsible for the fires.”

“Oh, my, that must have been a harrowing experience for you,” Avatar commented. “That must have been rough, trying to fight the Navi while also trying to survive the fire.”

“But I came out okay!” Netto assured, “I saved the day right!”

“Wait, you did get checked right?” Avatar asked. “Inhaling that much smoke couldn’t be good for your lungs.”

“I was fine for a few months after I went for a doctor’s check-up,” Netto answered.

“So, what happened after the fires?” Avatar asked.

“Oh, boy, are you going to be in for a long story!” Netto continued. It felt like hours since Netto explained his adventures during his time in his old home dimension with Avatar. Even though he knew her in such a short time, he felt very close to her. Just like his fast friendship with Rockman. “You know Ava, I feel better ever since I met you. I feel like I can open up.”

“Open up, you mean you never confided in anyone else about this? Not even Rockman or Meiru.”

“I mean confronting my own feelings about being isolated and away from home?” Netto guessed, “To be honest, when I was in Universe D. I had Rockman with me, so I didn’t feel truly alone. Now, when I came to this dimension on my own, I had to confront those feelings. Being in a new world, with no one I don’t know, learning about the culture, and other stuff. When I did my Process of Discovery Trial, it was really hard for me to overcome those negative feelings of what others would think if they knew I was alive. But I got better, therapy and my new friends helped.”

“So what are you going to do?” Avatar asked. “After you accomplish your goal of saving Purity and the Zeva, are you going to choose on which Universe, you are going to stay in?”

“To be honest, the choice is harder than I thought.” Netto confessed, “What I’ve gathered from Onee-san is that five years have passed so everyone is older and different. So, I haven’t fully assessed how much has changed in the Universe A and if I could still adjust there.”

“Are you planning to return there once your mission is over?” Avatar asked.

“For a bit, I wanted to see how everyone is doing,” Netto replied. “If they still want me in their lives and I can still function there, then I’ll make my final decision.”

“I see…” Avatar replied.

Both the operator and Navi got up from their spots and Netto noticed a pathway between two wisteria trees. “Is that a pathway?” Netto asked.

“I am curious, where does it lead?”

“I’m not sure…But we should investigate.”

“Is that okay? What about the others?” Avatar asked.

“We’re just going to be exploring for a bit,” Netto reasoned. “We won’t take long.”

Avatar relented, “Alright, but let me stay by your side. Wherever this pathway leads to may be dangerous.”

“But I have my weapons with me,” Netto pointed out. “I can handle it on my own.”

“It wouldn’t hurt to have a partner with you if we get suddenly ambushed by an unknown group,” Avatar persuaded.

“Fine, you can come,” Netto relented.

As the two walked down the unknown path, slowly into their view they saw a group of decrepit buildings. Netto’s heart sank as he recognized the place. It was his father’s workplace, the Ministry of Science, or what remains of it. The skyscrapers and dome buildings were cracked and full of foliage. An area that was long since abandoned and left to decay and return to nature.

“What happened to this place?” Netto commented. “Why is it so broken?”

“Do you want to turn back?”

“No, I have to know,” Netto refused. “Why did this place fall into disrepair?”

“Netto!?” Avatar had to keep up with her operator otherwise she would lose him in this abandoned facility. She finally catches up to her when Netto is standing on the faded symbol of the facility.

“How could this happen? Papa’s workplace…” Memories flooded of him visiting his father’s place of employment either to ask for help during the crisis of a new cyber threat or to drop off some food made by Mama. He then enters a building where his father’s lab was. Avatar was silently following behind him as they traversed the endless, empty corridors that were abandoned by time. Netto stopped in front of a door.

“Why did we stop here?”

“Avatar, this is the room where Papa works at,” Netto explained. The grey Navi looks and sees faded numbers at a rusty metal door. Beside it was an electronic lock with a number keypad. Netto inputs the password and to his surprise, it was accepted. The door was unlocked and they entered the room together.

- Room 03212001 [Universe B Version] -

Netto notes the arrangement of the desks, chairs, and machines was different. Despite how empty and rusty they were, he could tell that it wasn’t the same room. However, Netto still felt feelings of melancholia and nostalgia. A room that housed so many memories even after he became a Net Savior was now left forgotten.

Avatar was quiet as Netto was musing over his surroundings. She decides to offer her help. “Hey, Netto? Do you want me to look at computer systems? I take a look to see if there are any records left.”

“Huh? You want to look at them?” Netto asked. “I haven’t checked them but I’m not sure if anything survived in these conditions. But it wouldn’t hurt to try. You can return to the PET and I’ll -”

“There is no need, if I’m in the real world, I can enter any plug-in port with ease just by touching it,” Avatar explained. She demonstrates by touching a functional port and she pixelates. A screen lights up and Netto looks at his PET and she is inside the network. However, it was unnervingly empty, with no wandering viruses in sight. A truly abandoned server.

- Industrial Remains Network -

Avatar was inspecting the remains of what was once a highly advanced, government-complex network. Just what happened to this place? She was also unnerved by how eerily quiet it was. The various walls were cracked and debris was scattered all over the place. The ground looked fractured and Avatar had to be pretty cautious and make sure it didn’t break under her own weight.

“Avatar did you find anything?”

“Nothing of value, yet,” Avatar reported. “Now if I were an employee of this facility where would I keep important documents? There must be a private server here but where’s the entry link?” She looks around and sees a door with the name, Aegle, on it. “This looks important.” She turns the knob and to her surprise, it easily opened.

- Aegle Server -

The server imitated a real work office only the metal cabinets seemed to reach the ceiling. “So many, where to start?” She looks around and pulls some of the drawers only to find most of them are empty. As Avatar traverses further, she finds a desk with folders strewn on it. “Looks like someone was in a hurry.” She picks up one of the folders and opens it. During her examination, her focus was on the year. “20XX A.D.”

“Wait, 20XX A.D.? But that’s impossible, we’re in a different world! Why would that specific year be on the files?”

“Netto, I think I’m getting something, remember the first Umbra Incident that happened 2,000 years ago?” Avatar explained, “I think it happened during that time period.”

“You mean that in 20XX,” Netto quavered. A sudden revelation was brought to light. In Universe B’s past, 20XX was the time period that the unknown organization experimented on the Aaron and the Zeva and caused the first Umbra Incident. Human civilization almost ended and if it wasn’t for the combined efforts of Draco, Purity, and their respective local groups to create the Scyphozoan Blue Court; the human race would have already croaked. He felt sick to utter stomach. 20XX, the era he grew up in, if an Umbra Incident happened in his old home, would everyone he knew and loved die?

Sudden visions of his home world being invaded by Umbras. Gobbling up various humans and sucking up their negative energy for survival. Various homes and buildings were destroyed by their never-ending hunger. His loved ones are being devoured and becoming Umbra themselves or turning into hollow husks. He began to hyper ventilate and his skin was getting clammy. Netto’s body was beginning to shake.

Avatar was starting to panic, and Netto was getting pale. “Netto? Netto! Please breath. You’re not in any danger! Netto?!”

Netto was about to fall over when two pairs of arms stopped him from collapsing to the floor.

“Gotcha!” Ruby said.

“Everything’s all right, Netto. We’re here,” Frost assured.

“Ruby-chan…Frost-kun…” Netto recognized.

“Sorry, we’re late,” Ruby apologized. “It was a pain wandering through the place. Felt like a maze.”

Frost guides Netto to a nearby wheeling chair and settles him down. He stays by his side to make sure Netto gathers his bearings and calms down.

“That was a pretty bad one,” Ruby commented. “What could have triggered it?” She notices that a TV screen is on and she looks up to see Avatar in an abandoned office. “Hey, Avatar where are you exactly?”

“I’m actually in a server that contains some important files,” Avatar explained. “I was going to delve more into the contents before Netto had his panic attack.”

Ruby looks back and sees Netto with his head down, slowing his heart rate with large breathing. Frost was watching over him to make sure, the yellow scarf boy was stable. “Maybe we should wait until Netto is fully calm?”

Draga and others enter the open room and found Netto sitting in one of the chairs. Most of them went to check on his wellbeing while others were curious about what Avatar was doing on screen.

“Avatar, are you in a VPN? A Virtual Private Network?” Sherrice asked.

“That seems pretty interesting,” Rideman commented. “Perhaps we could take whatever is eligible and decode it.”

“What about Netto? Is he okay?” Avatar asked.

“I believe he’ll be fine,” Natsu assured. “Once we get all the contents, we can analyze them later when return to the hotel.” She looks down at her peacock green, Link PET. “Mira, search the network and retrieve any eligible documents.”

“Of course,” Mira replied.

“Plug-in, Mira! Transmission!”

“Plug-in, Rideman! Transmission!” Sherrice added.

Both Mira and Rideman enter the network where Avatar is and all three of them start rummaging through the various cabinets to search for any surviving documents. The grey Navi was opening the drawers of the abandoned desk and saw a scratched folder that had the label of someone’s name on it. ‘Abner H*k*r*’, it said. Avatar was curious about why the last name was scratched out. She peeked into the folder and was shocked at what she found, a couple of journal entries and audio recordings. She decides to add it to the collection, so Netto could look at it later when his panic attack has resided.

- Hiroki Town -

Joan was amazed at how well-built the houses were. They were made out of wood and the roofs were made out of dry straw. The town itself seems to be small compared to the cities. It seemed to be the only one for miles since she could see a vast grassy field with beautiful flowers, behind the town were the mountains, and to the east was the beach.

“Whoa, so this is what it is like to lie in the countryside,” Delia commented.

“I know, look at the flowers,” Spectra added.

“We’re almost home,” Bella’s grandmother informed. They stopped in front of a two-story home that had a red, bricked exterior, but it matched the theme of the rest of the town. The elderly woman took out her keys and everyone entered the home. “*sigh*, home sweet home.”

- Yoshiki Household -

Joan looks around and sees that were sliding doors that lead to the outside. She has seen some of the Japanese Zen aesthetic interior designs online but to see the real thing was something different.

“You girls can find a place to sit, I’m going to the kitchen to brew some tea.” Bella’s grandmother then leaves for the kitchen to boil some water.

All three girls decide to sit together at the kotatsu* in the middle of the living room with sliding doors that lead to the outside.

“So, what should we do first?” Spectra asked.

“How about we go to the local sweets shop?” Bella suggested. “My grandmother knows the shop owner personally. He sells the best, homemade sweets in town. We could ask for some samples and a personal discount.”

Joan remains quiet as she looks down at her lap. ‘To think that so much time has passed since he died. Time does not wait for the dead nor the living.’

“Hey, Joan?” Bella asked, “Where do you want to go to?”

Bella’s question brings Joan back to reality and makes eye contact with the girls. “Oh, um maybe go sightseeing or something. I-I don’t know this place very well.”

“That’s what we were discussing earlier,” Spectra restated.

“Uh, Spectra, have you forgotten?” Reina hissed, “Joan has PTSD so she’s probably thinking about him.”

“Jerry, her best friend,” Spectra remembered, “Oh, sorry…”

“It’s fine, I didn’t want to burden you two with my ‘condition’ due to trauma,” Joan assured.

“Hey, there’s nothing to ashamed of,” Spectra assured.

“Yeah, we’re here for you!” Bella smiled.

“Thank you…”

“Anyway, you wanna check the guest room upstairs, we’ll be staying the night there!” Bella asked.

“Sure!”

“You girls go on ahead, I’ll be waiting for the tea and snacks,” Joan prompted, “I’ll catch up later.”

“If you insist,” Spectra acknowledged.

“Come on, Spectra, let’s go to the guest room!” Bella prompted. The two girls ran upstairs, leaving behind loud footsteps.

A few minutes later, Bella’s grandmother comes into the room with two trays. One with a Japanese tea set the other bearing Japanese sweets. “Here Joan, have some chinsuko and dango.” The elderly woman gives Joan a plate of pastel-colored shortbread cookies and some balls of dough in different colors stuck together on a bamboo skewer.

“Shortbread cookies and dough balls on a stick?”

“Actually, Joan, chinsuko is not a shortbread cookie,” Bella’s grandmother corrected. “It’s actually a biscuit made mostly of lard and flour. It was pretty popular as a treat for people of royalty in ancient times. The flavor is mild and sweet. Dango are Japanese dumplings that are made with various types of rice flour. Since it is still springtime, this is the Hanami version.”

“I see,” Joan commented. She takes one skewer and examines the colors of each one. It was too pretty to eat but she couldn’t resist on taking a bite.

“Wait, Joan before you eat, you must say the phrase,” Bella’s grandmother interrupted.

“The phrase before you eat?” Joan reiterated.

 “It’s Itadakimasu,” Delia answered. “I guess it is a phrase to show that you are grateful for the food that someone serves you before a meal.”

“Oh right, Itadakimasu!” Joan said before she took a bite of the Dango. “It tastes pretty sweet.”

“I’ve heard that you’ve been diagnosed with a serious condition,” Bella’s grandmother commented.

Joan stops chewing and quickly swallows her last bite. She fell silent pondering on how she knew about her mental illness. “Bella, she told you, didn’t she?”

“Of course,” Bella’s grandmother confirmed, “Now I’m not here to judge you but my father was diagnosed with the same condition that you had when he witnessed my uncle’s death during his childhood. So I understand what PTSD is and what it does to a person.”

“Your father? Bella’s great-grandfather?” Joan asked, “Bella never mentioned it.”

“It was a very painful memory to share with her,” Bella’s grandmother replied. “We rarely discuss the topic of my deceased uncle around my father. He did get therapy to treat his PTSD, but there were still emotional scars. It took years of support for the father to confront and let go of his guilt of letting his brother die. He managed to pass peacefully with the hope of seeing his brother again on the other side. So, Joan, you’re not alone in the pain of losing your friend. I believe he did not want you to be sad forever after he died. He wanted you to succeed even if he’s no longer in this world.”

“I’m still sad that Jerry died so suddenly,” Joan confessed. “Grappling with feelings of guilt when he drowned. I got so scared of going near large bodies of water because of that.”

“Dear, you’re not alone,” Bella’s grandmother assured. “What about his other friends and family? They surely must be grieving as well. Jerry’s parents are dealing with it the worst since they had to bury their child.”

“I have been talking to them,” Joan answered. “They’ve been getting better and Darren, his NetNavi. He’s feeling better.”

“That’s good, I’m glad that his family is coping well after Jerry’s death,” Bella’s grandmother smiled. “Joan, dear, don’t be sad that Jerry is gone. Be happy that he was in your life.”

“Thank you, Bella’s grandmother,” Joan thanked.

“Please call me Rosabell,” Bella’s grandmother replied.

Later that day, Bella was touring the town with Spectra and Joan in tow. “So where do you want to go first?” Bella asked.

“Let’s go to the beach,” Joan answered. “Hiroki Town is near one.”

“The beach? But Joan you hate water,” Bella pointed out.

“We’re just going to walk near the shoreline,” Joan clarified. 

- Yukina Beach -

The trio was standing in front of the beach with the waves gently crashing onto the shore. Joan closes her eyes and imagines herself back in Beach Flora Town near Palma Beach. She was having a conversation with Jerry before his death.

“So, that’s your new school uniform?”

“Yup! Pretty cool huh?” Jerry twirls around to reveal his new uniform to her.

She still fondly remembers his wild spiky, brown hair and dark grey eyes. He was wearing a white collar tee shirt with blue cuffs and trimmings and golden buttons, faded jeans, and brown loafers.

“Jerry will be attending this coming semester,” Darren informed.

“That’s great, you’ve always wanted to attend this school,” Jerry beamed.

 “Here, your sash,” Joan said as she gave him a black sash with three badges that represent Fire, Grass, and Recovery.

“Oh, Joan, I thought…”

“I thought it would be a cool item for you to stand out,” Joan smiled.

“Thanks, Joan,” Jerry thanked. He proudly shows his sash and pats some of the dust off.

“Joan, are you okay?” Bella asked with concern.

This snapped her out of reminiscing the past. “I’ll be fine,” Joan assured. “I just need some closure.” She looks up at the sky, hoping Jerry’s soul is at peace.  

- Masato City [Ichika Hotel] -

After returning from Ayumi Town, Netto’s group checked into Ichika Hotel. It was a very modest yet highly popular hotel. Netto was taken to Room 540 where he shares Frost, Henshin, and Aeon.

It was a two-bedroom suite with two boys sharing one boy. Netto already changed into his orange PJs before snuggling under the covers. Frost decides to sit close to him while he reads a book on Nikkōko marine life. Aeon was lying down on the bed bored while Henshin was playing with his portable gaming console on a chair near the bed.

- Room 542 [Television Network] -

Inside the network of television that belonged to a different set of guests, Avatar was comparing various notes with Rideman and Mira. They were sitting together at a table with various notes spilled out.

“Well all be, all of these notes date back to the first Umbra Incident,” Rideman deducted.

“Yeah, all of them date back to 20XX,” Mira added.

Avatar was sifting through the large pile of barely eligible notes when she was deliberating ignoring the one file that she had beside her. The Abner File.

“Hey Avatar, aren’t you going to open that?” Rideman asked.

“Later when Netto wakes up,” Avatar replied. “I have a feeling that Netto needs to read it.” ‘Even though the truth made him have a panic attack, he has a right to know. If I’m correct then this file could be…’

“If you insist, hey Mira how is your search going?” Rideman asked.

“Going well, Rideman,” Mira replied. “I managed to crack the files and manage to find some recordings and journal entries.”

“Let’s see what you got,” Rideman insisted. “I want to see your findings.”

Mira gives Rideman and Avatar a screen that showcases the files of some scientist named Chiharu Fujiko.

“Chiharu Fujiko, Age: 23, Occupation: Scientist, Gender; Female, Appearance: long brown hair and green eyes,” Rideman read.

“Anything regarding family or friends?” Avatar asked.

“I’ve checked into it and couldn’t find anything,” Mira replied. “You should check the other files revolving around her.”

Avatar was the one to read a journal entry that was dated March 25^th.

We have made a significant process in terms of creating a separate dimension in which we can monitor and see its growth. With the help of various sponsors, we have created a world from our own computers. We have dubbed it the cyber world.

- Fujiko March 25, 20XX AD

“No way, so the true date of the creation of the Cyber World was before the first Umbra Incident?!” Avatar gasped, “This changes everything! So the creation of the Internet and the Net Navis wasn’t a brand new thing. This was attempted in the past.”

“Let me see, what else did this Chiharu chick write down.” Rideman scrolls down to the next file dated April 5^th.

During our daily research of the Cyber World, we noticed that viruses started to invade and started wrecking our network. Our regular anti-virus and malware are not working efficiently with these new patches. Abner has decided to create a new program that can deal with the rise of these new viruses.

However, I had doubts about his new project. He wanted to inject human emotions into them, and make them sentient so they can perform better when deleting the viruses.

The development and progress of sentient AI being self-aware was a very controversial topic. However, Abner assured us that these new AIs or Network Navigators will assure a new age of our development of the Cyber World Project.

- Fujiko April 5, 20XX

“No way, so does that mean that there were NetNavis that are older than us out there?”

“Well, look at the last entry which is December 5^th. Which is eight months later,” Mira replied.

I felt a cold chill went up my spine this morning at work. I don’t why but it didn’t go away. I heard a scream coming from the hallway.

It was my superior, the one who would always hinder our progress on the Cyber World and Network Navigator projects. He started coughing flecks of black similar to ink then he collapsed and started convulsing.

Some of the coworkers called for the ambulance due to the seriousness of the seizures and the mysterious black substance he was coughing up. He was wheeled away and taken to a nearby hospital for emergency treatment. I do not know what happened afterward, only that he ‘died’. But I knew better once I heard that our higher-ups suddenly stopped showing up. Then the news spread that most of them were suddenly hospitalized. Rumors speculate that they may have fallen ill and had shown the same symptoms as our superior.

- Fujiko December 5th, 20XX

“That was when the Malice Wave hit,” Rideman recalled. “After Chaos unleashed her wrath onto this world, every powerful person that had high profile connections suddenly fell ill.”

“Ms. Fujiko’s boss was no exception,” Avatar added. “He probably turned into an Umbra as well once he was admitted.”

“And the rest speaks for themselves,” Mira lamented. “I’m not sure how far in development the first Cyber World and NetNavis were before the Umbra Incident hit the world at full force. Maybe, they were unable to complete it.”

“It is highly likely,” Rideman pondered. “So that network back in the Industrial Ruins of Ayumi Town could’ve contained the remains of the first Cyber World.”

“But when I explored it, I didn’t see nor sense any viruses or NetNavis in the area,” Avatar clarified. “Maybe the NetNavi Project was still in its infancy before the first Umbra Incident hit.”

“That could be very likely,” Mira commented. “Though one detail did catch my eye. The second entry talked about someone called Abner.”

“Abner? Wait a minute, isn’t that the file Avatar was holding?”

Avatar instinctively pushes the files towards her, away from Rideman and Mira’s prying eyes.

“Um, why is she not letting us see it?” Mira

“Avatar wants Netto to see the file,” Rideman explained. “I don’t why she insisted that he should look it as well but…”

“Please, Ava, we need to see what Abner’s file contained,” Mira insisted. “It could solve the mystery on what happened to the development of what happened to the first attempt of the Cyber World and the NetNavi production.”

“I understand your feelings to look through the contents of this file but I want Netto to see it as well,” Avatar demurred. “He needs to see this information.”

“But why?”

“The scratched-out surname,” Avatar answered. “I think it might be the same as Netto’s.”

“Huh? Hikari?” Rideman asked baffled.

“But Avatar when Netto first arrived in Beach Flora Town there was no record of him from this country.” Mira argued, “Sure he did come from another world but still…”

“I know it sounds ludicrous but maybe there was no record of a Netto Hikari in this world,” Avatar guessed. “Sure there might be someone with the Hikari Surname but a ‘B’ Version of Netto does not exist here. That’s why there was no record of him when Netto appeared in this universe. The Hikari Family from 2,000 years ago do share the same surname as my operator’s but maybe this version of the family lineage could be no more. They probably perished sometime during the second Umbra Incident, the Emeric War.”

“It is possible,” Mira pondered.

“Well if Avatar’s guess is true then we have to wait ‘til morning.” Rideman proposed, “Since Netto is asleep, she’s not going to budge unless her operator is awake and mentally functional.”

“I’m a bit disappointed but we’ll wait until morning.”

The next morning, Netto stretches his arms after waking up from his refreshing sleep. He looks to his right and sees Frost still asleep. He looks at Aeon and Henshin’s bed. They were still sound asleep as well. He gets up from his bed and goes to the bathroom to freshen up. He splashes water on his face and wipes the liquid away with a fresh, unused towel. As he goes back into the room, Avatar is waiting for him inside the Cosmic PET.

“Good morning, Netto!” Avatar greeted. “Did you rest well?”

“Good morning, Avatar,” Netto repeated. “Yes, I got a good night’s sleep.”

“Actually, I was waiting for you to wake up,” Avatar confessed. “Last night, I was helping Mira and Rideman look through the legible files we found in the Industrial Ruins’ VPN server. But there was one folder file, I want you to see.”

“Really, what is it?” Netto asked. “What did you, Mira, and Rideman find?” Netto sits at a desk so as not to disturb the others.

“We came across some files that deal with the history of the Cyber World, the Internet, and the NetNavis. The file I hold, the Abner file, contains contents of his involvement of the first iteration of them, especially the NetNavis.” Avatar answered, “Though that’s not the main reason why I waited for you. Netto, I believe Abner shares the same surname as you.”

“The same surname…” Netto repeated, “Wait, are you saying that this Abner guy might be the true creator of the NetNavi race in this world? And might have helped with the development of the Cyber World Project! I’m not going to pass up this opportunity to look it up!”

“Yes, but first get dressed,” Avatar insisted. “Mira and Rideman already informed Natsu and Sherrice about their findings. They will be waiting for us on the first floor.”

“What about breakfast?” Netto whined, “I’m kind of hungry.”

“It will be served at the first floor,” Avatar answered. “Come one, we don’t want to keep them waiting.”

“Netto?” Frost uttered. He sits up on the bed and rubs his eyes. His clothing is light blue pajamas. “Are you going to eat?”

“Oh, sorry, Frost-kun, did I wake up and the others up?”

“No, I’m good,” Frost replied. “I was about to wake up when I heard you and Avatar talking.”

“What about Aeon and Henshin?” Netto pointed out.

“They’re heavy sleepers,” Frost replied. “They usually get up during the afternoon. Usually…”

Netto looks over to their bed and notes that Henshin is wearing earplugs while Aeon is snoring loudly with drool trickling down his mouth. How did he and Frost sleep through that loud snoring of his? For Netto, his medication probably. But Frost isn’t on any medication, so how could he sleep so soundly with Aeon’s loud snoring?

“Are you going to get breakfast?” Frost asked.

“Yeah, but I need to get ready,” Netto answered. “Sherrice and Natsu are waiting for me.”

“I’m coming with you,” Frost insisted as he got out of bed, “I’m hungry as well.”

- Ichika Hotel [First Floor] -

Just as Avatar said, Natsu and Sherrice were waiting for them as they were sitting at a table eating breakfast. However, what surprised them was Frost, in his regular clothes, accompanying him.

“Natsu-chan, Sherrice-san!” Netto beamed.

“Good morning, you two,” Sherrice commented. “Netto, are you feeling any better today?”

“Frost, I’m not surprised you are awake this early,” Natsu added. “You were always an early bird.”

“Yeah, I thought it would be convenient to tag along with Netto,” Frost replied. “Plus I was hungry.”

“I feel better,” Netto restated, “That good night’s sleep did wonders.” He then heard his stomach grumbling, he felt embarrassed by how loud it was. “I’ll be right back, I’m going to get some food.” He goes to the counters where they serve breakfast to the hotel guests and starts stacking his plate with a lot of food.

Frost comes to join Netto a few minutes later and is shocked and in awe at how the bandana boy was balancing all that food on one measly plate. Even Avatar was impressed by his balancing act. ‘Can Netto eat all of that? That seems like overkill for his stomach. I know he’s a growing teenager but still.’

“I’m back!” Netto beamed. Natsu and Sherrice were shocked at how much food was on his plate. Slices of toasted bread, eggs, bacon, waffles, bagels, and slices of fruit like apples and oranges were amongst his humongous pile. In comparison, Frost’s plate was only two toasted bagels with packets of cream cheese.

“Netto, are you going to finish all of that?” Natsu asked. “You could get a stomachache.”

“It’s fine, I can eat a lot,” Netto assured. He gets a waffle from his huge pile and opens a syrup packet; he slathers the sticking substance all over it. The bandana boy takes a bite out of while Sherrice starts the conversation.”

“Last night, Rideman informed me of the research that he, Mira, and Avatar did. We managed to put together that the first attempt at creating the Cyber World, the Internet, and the NetNavis was 2,000 years ago. Before the first Umbra Incident, a woman called Chiharu Fujiko was probably part of a team that was involved in it.” Sherrice informed, “However, they ended the research last night because Avatar insisted that Netto should at the contents of the Abner File.”

Netto stops eating his slice of apple when his Navi shows him the file that Sherrice is referring to. A label baring the name Abner H*k*r*. “Ava, is this the file you wanted me to see?”

“She thinks that scratched surname is the same as yours, Netto,” Mira replied.

“What? But that’s too much of a coincidence!” Netto exclaimed, “I know Hikari is a pretty common name here since I researched it earlier, but still.”

“But didn’t you mention that your family is a lineage of brilliant minds in the scientific community?” Frost recalled, “Draga did mention it.”

“Yeah, but I told you before when I looked up my surname on the database of this world, it was pretty common,” Netto doubted. “I’m not sure if Abner shares the same last name as mine.”

“That would be the case but Abner could be the one who wanted to create the NetNavi race but it didn’t come to full fruition due to the first Umbra Incident,” Rideman revealed. “Apparently from Chiharu’s file, Abner proposed a plan that would create a new generation of programmed AI to fight the new generation of viruses that popped up during their project.”

“A-a-are you serious?” Netto said shocked, “Then if that’s true then Abner could be…”

“Probably an alternate ancestor or something,” Natsu guessed. “But we don’t know until we open the contents of the folder.”

“Ava, could you read it for us?” Netto requested, “I want to see what this Abner person left behind.”

“Actually can we do it later?” Avatar cautioned, “I do not want any eavesdropping from the guests. We are in a public area.”

Everyone sighed in disappointment but it was understandable, being out in the open with important historical evidence with hotel guests eating their breakfast was bound to attract some attention.

- Ichika Hotel [Third Floor] -

Sherrice requested to rent a private room on the third floor from the front desk. This way she can present the findings that Rideman, Mira, and Avatar found in the Industrial Ruins without any prying eyes. Once everyone was awake and had eaten breakfast, they all crowded inside the privately reserved room with a projector. After everything was properly set up, Sherrice was in front of a wall with a huge screen taking up most of it, with Rideman on her shoulder to present the new historical findings. She clears her throat to get everyone’s attention. Netto was standing on a wooden podium to the side, with the remote control connected to the projector in his hand. With the press of a button, a screen of the podium’s computer appeared on screen.

“What I’ve managed to gather from the Navis’ findings is that the abandoned Industrial Remains used to be a government-funded facility that was creating the first attempt at the creation of the Cyber World and the NetNavi Race. However, it seemed it did not get far because the first Umbra Incident happened,” Sherrice started. “During their search, they found some documents that belonged to a team that was responsible for the first attempt at creating the Cyber World. One of the team members named Abner, proposed the creation of the NetNavi Race.”

“Are you serious?! Then this is huge news, Sherrice!” Draga gasped, “This could flip our understanding of the history of the Cyber World and the NetNavi race on its head.”

“That would be the case but I believe the first attempt could be considered a failure since it seems it didn’t go far that much into development due to the first Umbra Incident.” Sherrice doubted, “Early speculations suggested that the first version of the Internet wasn’t as advanced as our current one. However, when our Navis went inside the Scyphozoan Blue Court Network, it was much more technologically advanced than we currently have. Some areas seem to mimic real-world biomes like deserts and forests while others seem to be interactive abstract art pieces. It was unbelievable.”

“That is true, to think that people from 2,000 years ago could create something so advanced?” Isla pondered.

“This could bridge the gap on how, the Agni, the Zaki, Draco, Purity, and their vessels had the knowledge to construct a network that advanced into the Scyphozoan Blue Court,” Draga added.

“Anyway, we should focus on the Abner File that Avatar holds,” Rideman interjected. “It may shed more light on what happened to the first failed attempt of the Cyber World. Maybe we can find out more if Abner’s proposal went through and NetNavi was developed and given sentience before the first Umbra Incident happened. Avatar, the file?”

“Right, Netto, plug me into the podium’s computer!” Avatar instructed. “It is automatically connected to the projector so you don’t have to worry about lag when opening the files and presenting the contents.” Netto agrees and plugs his Navi into the projector’s plug-in port. Once Avatar was inside the podium’s computer, she was seen on the projected screen as she quickly opened the Abner Folder and displayed the various files. Once they were all retrieved and neatly organized, Netto took a closer look at the contents. Some of them were picture files, others were typed documents, and the rest were audio recordings.

He decides to check the picture files first. He clicks on the first picture. It was a man with short, light green hair, brown eyes, and fair skin. He seems to wearing an outfit that is awfully similar to the Ministry of Science’s uniform that his father normally wears. Even the trimmings on the clothing looked hauntingly familiar.

“Is that Abner?” Ciel asked.

“It has to be, but he looks quite young,” Aile observed.

Netto clicks on the second picture. Abner was with a woman and they were holding two babies in their arms. The woman had shoulder-length, wavy black hair, bright red eyes, and pale skin. The baby that Abner was holding had black hair while the other one the woman was holding had green hair.

“Aw, he’s married, what a shame,” Mrs. Tsubaki commented.

“Mom!” Aimi cried with utter embarrassment.

Netto clicked on the last picture file. Abner was with a group of twenty other people which seemed to be his team.

“Look, Chiharu is in the picture!” Natsu observed.

“Indeed, then it is confirmed that Abner was in the same team as hers,” Sherrice deducted.

Netto opens the earliest Word document that dated March 30^th, 20XX

I was astounded at how much progress we managed to accomplish. We were even able to create a new world from our own computer servers. It was a major breakthrough indeed.

However, I’ve heard from Chiharu that we have been having trouble fighting against a new generation of viruses. Our latest anti-virus software isn’t doing much to eliminate them. So in retaliation, I proposed the Network Navigator Project. If it goes through then we will have a new generation of AI that will help fight this newly developed virus outbreak.

- Hikari, March 30^th, 20XX

Everyone fell silent after reading the first entry. A lot of thoughts and questions were floating in their mind after being exposed to a huge revelation of information.

“Wait, Hikari? Isn’t that Netto’s surname?”

“But how is that possible?” Angel asked. “When we looked up Netto’s family name with the help of the authorities, it turned up nothing.”

“Maybe because there is no record of a Netto Hikari in this world,” Draga theorized. “Sure the family name does exist but a version of our Netto does not exist in our universe. That’s why they couldn’t find any record of him when he came to our world. Maybe a version of his parents doesn’t exist here either.”

“Netto? What was the name of the workplace that your father worked for?” Sherrice asked.

“Ministry of Science,” Netto replied.

“Wait are you saying that the Industrial Ruins that we found in Ayumi Town is the same name as Netto’s father’s workplace?” Felica asked.

“It is true,” Netto confirmed. “I was researching the places at the Beach Flora Library and found out that place was destroyed during the first Umbra Incident. There hasn’t been an equivalent of it since.”

“Netto, the second entry,” Avatar interjected. Netto nods in compliance and opens the second one.

I admit that my Network Navigator Project proposal was ludicrous and most of the team was doubtful about using sentient AI to fight viruses that were wreaking havoc on our Cyber World Project.

I assure the higher-ups that we won’t make them fully sentient to prevent a scenario of an uprising occurring with sentient and self-aware AI. However, I am considering trying to propose more complex thinking in the future. Because I believe if a Navigator’s emotional programming is more advanced they will form a closer bond with their operators

- Hikari, April 10^th, 20XX

Netto opens the third entry; it details the huge 8-month gap between Chiharu’s Journal Entries.

My wife, Asahi, had given birth to twins, a boy and a girl. I was over the moon! If everything goes well for my Network Navigator Project, my two children will have one before attending elementary school.

Their generation will be the first to use this new technology to stop this new virus plague from destroying all of our new generation of computer software if we implement the results of our Cyber World Project.

- Hikari, May 5^th, 20XX

Netto felt a ping of familiarity in his chest. Why did Abner’s story feel very familiar to him? Married, had two children that were twins. He continues despite these questions floating in his hand by opening the fourth file that details the progression of the Cyber World and the Network Navigator Project.

Everything has gone smoothly for the past few months, my wife had recently given birth to twins. Fraternal twins. We have decided to give the boy, Damien, and the girl, Uriah. My proposal for the creation of the Network Navigators has been accepted and will be receiving funding. I am very hopeful that in the near future, my children’s generation will live in harmony with the Navigators.

- Hikari, July 25^th, 20XX

“So, the proposal of Abner’s development of the NetNavis did go through,” Sherrice commented. “Though that doesn’t give us much since it does take a while for funding to come through and even more time to develop a project. Especially when creating a prototype of one.”

Avatar notices that Netto was being awfully silent during the whole presentation. “Netto is everything okay? You haven’t said a word since the presentation started. Do you want to take a break and have someone else finish it?”

“No, let’s continue,” Netto insisted. “I want to know what happens next.” He opens the fifth document which instantly caught his interest.

It had been several months since the development of our two projects, The Cyber World and the Network Navigators. One day, I came across some very important visitors. It was under the request of the Prime Minister. Amal Ariska was a very important person to the Zaki group. They were visiting with some friends of his. The most striking one was Ember Kusano, her striking red hair was very similar to family members from my wife’s side. Although, I brush it off as if it was just a mere coincidence.

I gave them a tour of our facility but forbade them from wandering into the more confidential areas. I did give them a sneak peek at our progress on our Cyber World and Navigator Projects. Ember complained about how long the term was and decided to shorten it to NetNavi. At first, it was a joke but ironically we ended up using that term since the real one was quite a mouthful.

However, Amal was quite disgusted and unnerved that we were projecting real human emotions into an AI. He voices his worries about the various problems in the future if the NetNavi Project were to continue. I assure him that nothing of that sort will come about to quell his fears.

- Hikari, August 20^th, 20XX

“Wait, Amal Ariska and Ember Kusano?” Draga recognized.

“Wasn’t that the names of the Zeva and Aaron of that time?” Natsu added.

“Yes, apparently, Amal and Ember visited the Ministry of Science where the Cyber World and NetNavi Projects were taking place before their capture and the Umbra Outbreak,” Sherrice affirmed.

“Are you saying that?” R.C. hesitated. She dare not say another word to add tension to the room.

“Netto, the next file,” Avatar interjected. Netto robotically nodded and opened the last document. It was dated December 9^th. One day after Chiharu reported that her superior fell ill and became an Umbra.

Yesterday, I felt a sudden child up my spine, I felt uneasy and anxious. Chiharu told me that our superior went to the hospital yesterday but no further updates. A few hours later, several black amorphous blobs were seen wandering the streets. To our horror, they turned bystanders into their own kind or they fell into a coma after prolonged contact. We were on high alert and our workplace wasn’t safe as one of our team members suddenly turned into one.

We had to throw some furniture at it as a distraction to give us more time to escape. Some of our team members weren’t so lucky. Elodie and Fukurokouji-san, they fell victim to the same, strange illness when they were exposed to those black creatures for so long. We had to abandon them as we didn’t want to be next, and we didn’t have any medical supplies to treat them.

We managed to find shelter in an empty bunker and stayed there for God knows how long.

Why did everything turn out like this? Why did everything fall apart? The future I envisioned was no longer certain. Are my wife and children okay? Is this the future that my children will be a part of? Not one of hope and possibilities, but of despair and endless struggle? I feel utterly helpless at the thought of them hopelessly struggling to survive while fighting off those creatures.

I will not allow for this to happen, if there was a way for my children to be protected by getting attacked by those ‘things’ I would happily oblige. However, there’s nothing much I can do right now. I’m trapped here with my colleagues and hope that my family is safe.

I hope everything will be better tomorrow.

- Hikari, December 9^th, 20XX

“So, what happened to him?” Angel inquired. “I mean we do know that Abner’s proposal of the NetNavi Project did go through during the first attempt at creating the Internet but nothing much after that.”

“I do not want to conjure up the worst-case scenario but with the evidence presented,” Sherrice hesitated, “It seems like the last entry. So, it is likely that he perished with the surviving members of his team.”

Netto looks at the audio files, he wants to stop but his curiosity pushes him to continue. He wants to know if Abner and the surviving team members endured or perished after the first Umbra Incident.

“Sherrice, I know things are grim, but I want to continue,” Netto suggested.

“Are you sure, Netto?” Sherrice replied. “So far, the files presented paint a grim and disturbing outcome in regards to Chiharu and Abner’s team.”

“We don’t care if the content is disturbing,” Ciel piped up.

“Yeah, we want to see if Abner survived or not!” Aimi added.

“If the younger ones insist then I won’t judge,” Sherrice commented. “Netto, you can play the recordings.”

Netto examined all the available audio files, “It seems there’s a total of three. I guess I’ll start on the one with the earliest date.” He asks Avatar to check the speakers and then plays the first recording.

First Recording: “My name is Abner Hikari, I’ve been trapped in a bunker with my colleagues. I’ve been here for at least two weeks, we have little food and water left. To think this is how my life will end, at least it was with people I trust and worked with. I hope my family is safe, my wife, Asahi, and my children, Damien and Uriah. I pray you are all safe.”

Netto felt bad for Abner, he had a growing family that he cared for dearly. Just like Papa. He ponders if they have similar values.

He plays the second recording. “We were rescued from members of the Agni and Zaki. We were relieved that help arrived but they asked us to create something using the knowledge we gained to create the Cyber World and NetNavis. We quickly accepted the request if it meant getting out of her and reuniting with our loved ones. We did ask them if they are okay. The Agni and Zaki assured us that are.

At the time, I was more worried about the safety of my family, and didn’t press on why the two groups wanted our knowledge from our Cyber World and NetNavis Projects for? Turns out it was to construct a brand new building that will save humanity from extinction.”

Finally, he plays the third and last recording. “Our work is complete. The reason the two group needs our knowledge to create a network that will be installed into the newly constructed building. This new structure will give humanity a fighting chance to stop the black amorphous creatures called the Umbras from wiping out humanity. With the combined efforts of Agni, Zaki, Amal, Ember, and the Dragon Gods, Draco and Purity, we created an architectural marvel that future generations could not replicate. It was called the Scyphozoan Blue Court. The Dragon Gods used our newly created network to bring back a deity called Cyanea using her shattered remains and implement it into the system. Once the system activated, a copy of her appeared albeit an inferior version. When she came to our world, she looked different. Amal and Ember were amazed at her. I was also in awe as well. Now that everything was in place we activated the Alethea Process which kick-started the Process of Discovery Trials.

We were whisked away to another realm to see if we could fight against Umbras. This is our last chance for our survival as a species and I hope we succeed.”

Everyone fell silent after another revelation was unfolded. Abner Hikari, Chiharu Fujiko, and their surviving team members actually helped the Agni, Zaki, Aaron Ember, Zeva Amal, and the Dragon Gods, Draco and Purity on the creation of the Scyphozoan Blue Court. “This is huge news, Sherrice!” Draga exclaimed. “This groundbreaking discovery could change the timeline of events on the history of the Cyber World, Internet, and the NetNavis.”

“Then why was this part of knowledge lost in the first place?” R.C. pondered.

“Maybe the records were previously lost towards time?” Natsu guessed, “That’s why lost media exists in the first place, people who did not archive all their files go missing due to negligence.”

“Regardless, this is still a major breakthrough as we found another important detail in the origin of the Scyphozoan Blue Court,” Sherrice beamed. “I believe this calls for a celebration, I’ll contact Cilla Preservation on this new discovery.”

“Wait, Sherrice! We should take a look at Abner’s family records?” Netto insisted, “I want to know if there were any surviving members of the Hikari Family in this world?”

“Later, it’s time for celebration,” Rideman deflected.

Before Netto could protest, his stomach started rumbling. “Okay, maybe after lunch. I’m getting hungry.” As the group files out of the preserved room. Netto plugs Avatar out from the computer’s podium.

“Netto do you still want to look through this Universe’s Version of your family tree?” Avatar asked.

“Later, Ava,” Netto replied. “I’m just glad we solved another mystery although we didn’t know that it was connected to the Scyphozoan Blue Court.” He was the last to leave the reserved room, satisfied that the Industrial Ruins Mystery ended on happy note with Abner and the rest of his surviving team end up outliving the first Umbra Incident. However, questions still linger in his mind. He wonders if the Hikari Lineage is still alive in their world. That will be another mystery to solve at another time.

Chapter Text

Netto quietly ate his food as everyone celebrated a groundbreaking discovery regarding the origins of the Scyphozoan Blue Court. They decide to commemorate the discovery at a kaiten-zushi restaurant in Agawa. After they reunite with Spectra’s group. Netto didn’t mind going to one, but he didn’t visit those restaurants because it was popular with foreign tourists. There were just better sushi establishments that locals would frequent back in his home dimension. As he took two plates of sushi, he absentmindedly pondered on what happened to Abner and his family. Are there any surviving members of his family in this universe? As he eats his piece of Tobiko*, his thoughts are interrupted by Natsu.

“Hey, Netto! I heard from Avatar that you want to find out more about your family line in this world, we can check the Masato Library,” Natsu suggested.

“Wait, really?!” Netto exclaimed. “There’s a place like that? You can look up family records there?”

“Of course, the Masato Library is known as the Archive of the World,” Natsu explained. “I’ve always wanted to visit that place as they kept records of everything. They even stored pieces of media that dated back even before the first Umbra Incident. Maybe, they have something related to the Hikari Family there.”

“Then we should go there right now!” Netto insisted.

“I’ve been there a couple of times, it’s near Agawa but we have to separate from the main group,” Sherrice confirmed.

“Yeah, you did mention that you visited that place a few times,” Natsu recollected.

“Okay, we’ll go there after lunch!” Netto beamed.

- Masato Library -

Netto was in awe at how tall the library was outside and inside the building. When Netto and his group entered the building, the endless amount of bookshelves reached up to the ceiling. The only way to distinguish the different floors and areas is through the architectural designs of how the wooden beams were constructed. In one area, the beams bend into arches that create a pathway. Another area, the bookshelves were colorful, hollow cubes.

“Netto, welcome to the Masato Library,” Sherrice introduced. “Here, we have various books and other pieces of media to stimulate and educate curious minds of all ages. Different areas of the library are here to appeal to all types of people depending on age, interest, or hobby.”

“It’s even more beautiful to visit in person,” Natsu beamed. Her eyes twinkled at how much knowledge she could absorb in this place. She could easily burn a couple of hours in this building.

“This place reminds me of the Tokyo Endless Library,” Netto recalled. “I remember Meiru-chan and the others would explore around the place and the books seem to never end.”

“That sounds like so much fun, to lose yourself by exploring a never-ending library,” R.C. commented.

“So, where do we start?” Ruby asked.

“I’m surprised that you want to tag along Ruby,” Draga commented. “Normally, you wouldn’t be interested in stuff like this.”

“But this is different, look how big this place is!” Ruby reasoned, “You can go on an adventure here.”

Before they entered the library, Netto asked if anyone else wanted to accompany him to check the archives of Masato Library besides Natsu and Sherrice. R.C. and Draga didn’t hesitate to follow along since they do enjoy reading books. For Draga, it is due to her interest in becoming a historian. For R.C., she is a writer. Ruby, Frost, Aeon, and Isla were surprising choices but he didn’t mind them tagging along. Everyone else went to Agawa to go shop at their huge variety of specialty shops.

“So, Sherrice-chan, where do they keep records on families of historical figures?” Netto asked.

“The Daichi Section,” Sherrice answered. “Go straight and go left. Follow me.” They follow her lead by going past a wooden archway.

- Daichi Section -

Netto was in awe at how this area was designed. The interior of this section had a Japanese Zen aesthetic feel to it. There were traditional paintings of lotus flowers hanging on the wall. Even the stairs to the upper floor had bookshelves.

“Where do we start?” Frost asked.

“If you’re looking for Hikari, search the ‘H’ Section,” Sherrice suggested.

Netto was one to find the family tree book of the Hikari Family. He looks through it and finds Abner’s name.

Abner Hikari

Age: 38

Gender: Male

Hair Color: Green

Eye Color: Brown

Description: A highly brilliant and accomplished man in the scientific community. He contributed heavily to the Great Restoration by rebuilding the internet that was lost during the First Umbra Incident.

“There is no mention of him contributing to the creation of the Scyphozoan Blue Court. But wait, what’s the Great Restoration Era?” Netto asked, “This is the first time, I’ve heard of it.”

“The Great Restoration Era being shortly after the first Umbra Incident was contained and people could rebuild human civilization,” Draga explained. “This is when the Irene Era Year System was put into place to celebrate a new era after humanity successfully conquered the Umbras.”

“Then what year is it?” Netto asked.

“5XX F.E.” Avatar replied, “Apparently, they used the Fenna Era Year System after the Emeric War ended.”

“So, this world uses a different year system than my old home world,” Netto commented.

Netto then looks at the family members who survived the first Umbra Incident. First, Abner’s wife, Asahi, and his twin children, Damien and Uriah.

Asahi Hikari

Age: 34

Gender: Female

Hair Color: Black

Eye Color: Red

Description: Before becoming a part-time housewife, Asahi was an accomplished artist in the art community. She became a full-time artist to inspire hope in the survivors after the Great Restoration Era.

He then looks at Damien and Uriah’s profiles. They were much older, maybe a year to two younger than him. First was Damien’s.

Damien Hikari

Age: 11

Gender: Male

Hair Color: Black

Eye Color: Red

Description: Damien was well-known for his knowledge of programming but enjoys music as a side hobby. During his early and later adult years, he pursued the same field as his father but would publish his music to earn some extra money. He helped his father rebuild what was left of the Internet after the first Umbra Incident during the Great Restoration Era.

Netto then reads Uriah’s profile

Uriah Hikari

Age: 11

Gender: Female

Hair Color: Green

Eye Color: Dark Brown

Description: Uriah did enjoy art but had a passion for gardening. During her later adult years, she became a biologist in order to restore the environment that was devastated during the first Umbra Incident.

“I’m glad that everyone survived in Abner’s family but who’s the most recent survivor?” Netto pondered, “Are they even around today?” As he goes to the end of the book, he is shocked that the last surviving member of the Hikari Family died 300 years ago. He looks down at their description.

Akiyama Hikari

Age: 40

Gender: Male

Hair Color: Brown with blonde highlights

Eye Color: Dark Brown

Description: Akiyama was a highly intelligent man who wanted to finish what his ancestor, Abner, started. He wanted to create a new Cyber World with his iteration of the NetNavi race. Unfortunately, the project was scrapped due to Akiyama’s declining health. At the age of 40, he passed away from a fatal heart attack. He had no surviving family members, but his legacy to create the Internet lives within his apprentice Amano Aoki. She will carry on the legacy that the Hikari Family left behind.

“So, Akiyama tried to make another Cyber World with NetNavis but failed,” Netto commented. “But who’s Amano Aoki?”

“Hey, Sherrice-san? Are there any records of the Aoki Family Lineage?” Netto requested.

“Did you say the Aoki Family?” Sherrice gasped.

“Yes, why?”

“Netto, the Aoki Family is responsible for the creation of the current Internet, Cyber World, and the NetNavi face,” Draga explained. “My family has ties to them. Why else would Dr. Cerys have the knowledge to create one from scratch?”

“What? So, that means your family and Draga’s family are connected to the Aoki Family? And they are responsible for the creation of the NetNavis in the world?”

“That’s right, after Akiyama’s death, Amano Aoki took his knowledge of the failed attempts on the creation of the Cyber World and the NetNavis from the Hikari Bloodline and attempted to create her own version. However, it took several generations to successfully create our modern-day Internet.” Draga revealed, “I’m part of the Aimory Family that helped the Aoki Lineage with their creation.”

“If that’s the case, what about Dr. Cerys’s surname?” Netto asked, “It’s Hermione, not Aimory.”

“She used to be married,” Draga clarified.

“Wait, what? Dr. Cerys was married?!” Netto gasped. “Now that you mention it, I did see some pictures of her with a man, but I thought it was another family member not her husband.”

“She doesn’t talk about him,” Draga replied. “He died from a vehicular accident. I guess losing both of our loved ones made us close. Besides, it was a very touchy subject. She doesn’t want to talk about it unless you bring it up.”

“Oh, I’m sorry,” Netto consoled. “I didn’t know.”

“It’s all right, Netto, she’s doing well these days,” Draga assured.

“But why did Dr. Cerys keep the Hermione surname if her husband died?”

“Legal reasons,” Draga replied.

“So, my family lineage in this world died and the Aoki, Aimory, and Sherrice-san’s family carried on their legacy of founding the Internet?”

“I’m afraid so, Netto,” R.C. commented. “But it’s not your fault that the family line dies out in this world. There are some things you can’t control such as how long your family lineage lasts. What you should appreciate on what they accomplish before their death.”

“Okay, if that’s the case, I wonder if the family lineage of my friends survived,” Netto pondered. “I want to see if they even exist.”

“What lineage do you want to see first?” Sherrice asked.

“How about the Ijuin or Sakurai?” Netto suggested.

“For the Ijuin Family Tree, I think they're under the ‘I’ Section?” Isla pondered. She rummages through that section and finds their heritage book. “Found it!” She gives the book to Netto and he quickly finds out the people that were alive during the 20XX Era.

Saku Ijuin

Gender: Male

Age: 40

Gender: Male

Hair Color: Black and White

Eye Color: Grey

Description: Saku Ijuin was a well-accomplished businessman, especially in the electronics industry. He became the CEO of IPC. However, he went missing during the first Umbra Incident. Theories speculate that he may have died from Void Syndrome or is alive as an Umbra.

Netto checks to see if he has any surviving spouses and children. He did have a surviving child named Tsubasa.

Tsubasa Ijuin

Age: 14

Gender: Male

Hair Color: Black and sky blue

Eye Color: Grey

Description: The only heir to IPC, but after the first Umbra Incident, he started to dedicate his live to help others. Many people compare his actions to a search and rescue operations officer, but became a doctor instead during the Great Restoration Era.

Netto checked to see who Saku’s wife and Tsubasa’s mother could be, but there was no record of her. He wonder what happened to her. He looks to see if there was any surviving members of the Ijuin Family in the current era. To his disappointment the last one died 200 years ago.

“Does anyone know where the Sakurai Family Tree is?” Netto asked.

“Here,” Aeon cried as he tossed the requested book into Netto’s hands. “Found it under ‘S’ Section.”

Netto had to gather his bearings after getting the wind knocked out of him after Aeon through the book at him. If he didn’t had good reflexes, he could’ve easily been knocked back a few feet. Once he was composed, he opened the Sakurai Book and looks at the 20XX A.D. Era. He found one.

Pearl Sakurai

Age: 11

Gender: Female

Hair Color: Pale Pink

Eye Color: Lime Green

Description: In her early years, Pearl was adopted by the Sakurai family when she was only an infant. There are no records of what happened to her birth parents. People theorized that they may have perished before the first Umbra Incident. During the Great Restoration Era, Pearl became a botanist and would often partner with Uriah Hikari to help restore the environment.

Netto looked down and was met with disappointment again. The last surviving member of the Sakurai Clan was 100 years ago. He felt his spirits damper, is there anyone that shares the same surnames as his friends that survived in this Universe?

“Is there an Ayanokoji Tree here?” Netto requested.

“I’ll look for it,” Frost volunteered. He goes to the ‘A’ section and it is near the ‘B’ section. “Found it!” Frost hands the book to Netto. The yellow scarf boy skims through it and finds the 20XX A.D. Era. Instead of his blonde, braided friend, he finds a pair of fraternal twins.

Yokan Ayanokoji

Hair Color: Black

Eye Color: Pale Brown

Age: 18

Gender: Female

Description: The older twin sister of the Ayanokoji Family. During the Great Restoration Era, at 28 years old, she ran for mayor of the far village of Pokte.

Ofuton Ayanokoji

Hair Color: Dirty Blonde

Eye Color: Dark Green

Age: 18

Gender: Female

Description: The younger twin sister of the Ayanokoji Family. During the Great Restoration Era, at 28 years old, she became the principal of Pokte Elementary School. However, she is known to assist her older twin sister with political matters of the village.

Netto finds out that the last surviving member of this clan died 60 years ago.

“I need a book on the Ooyamo Family Tree,” Netto asked.

“Okay!” Ruby beamed. “Is it under the ‘O’s Section?” She skims through the labels of the section and finds the Ooyamo Family Tree. “Netto, I found the book! She gives it to Netto and he quickly skims through the 20XX A.D. Era.

Agastya Ooyamo

Age: 11

Gender: Female

Hair Color: Brown

Eye Color: Grey

Description: During the Great Restoration Era and in his later adult years, Agastya was interested in politics. Mainly to make sure that the people got the help they needed to recover from the first Umbra Incident. He became the mayor of a small town.

Netto looks down and sees that the last surviving member of this clan died 500 years ago. He sighed as he was starting to lose hope. Tohru’s Family Tree, the Hikawas, was his last hope.

“I need the Hikawa Family Tree,” Netto requested.

“I’m surprised you are looking for my family history,” a boy’s voice commented.

“Huh? Who’s there?!” Ruby cried.

A boy that was about Netto’s age appeared. He had short hair that was styled similar to Tohru’s but it was white with blue highlights. His eyes were icy blue but when you glance at them, they could pierce your soul. His skin was very pale. His clothes were a violet jumper with light blue and green highlights, pale blue jeans, and cerulean blue and white shoes. On the breast pocket on his jumper was a Navi symbol of a crystalized arrowhead.

“Wait, are you, a surviving member of the Hikawa Family?!” Netto gasped.

“That’s right, my name is Haru Hikawa,” the boy introduced. “I heard you are Netto Hikari, the new Aaron.”

This took Netto aback, “How do you know my name and status? I barely mention it to anyone in Beach Flora.”

“You see, I heard from my parents that a new Aaron has been found in Beach Flora Town,” Haru replied. “My curiosity was piqued when I heard that the identity of this person was a supposed member of the dead Hikari Clan. So with my Navi’s help, Tundraman, I did some digging around. What I found out was interesting, you suddenly popped up around April. No family background. No educational history. No hometown. Nothing. The only thing I managed to figure out is that you became an Electric Type Magic User, your birthday is June 10^th, and you’re diagnosed with Generalized Anxiety Disorder.”

“So, you have done your research, huh?” Netto commented. He may be calm but deep down he was on edge.

“You’re surprisingly calm given your condition,” Haru observed. “But it is a given since you have been taking your medication and finished your CBT Sessions.”

“This guy is creepy…” Isla whispered in Netto’s ear, “What a stalker!”

“What do you want?” Netto calmly demanded.

“I want to join your team and travel to the other dimensions,” Haru requested.

“Wait, what?!” Ruby cried.

“I’m sorry, Haru but there is no room for you,” Frost rejected. “All the members have already been decided and we’re going to leave after the Summer Solstice Festival ends.”

“I assure you that I will be a great asset to your team, Netto,” Haru offered. “In fact, my family was the one who funded Dr. Cerys’s Cosmic Spire Project.”

“You serious?! Your family was one of the donors to auntie’s project?!” Draga gasped.

“Haru, if you are that serious then we need to discuss it with the rest of the group,” Netto informed. “I need to make sure that the others are okay with your decision to join our expedition.”

Haru was disappointed but understood their situation. “Very well, I will be waiting at Greenery Pinnacle along with the rest of your teammates,” Haru announced. He silently leaves the Daichi section without another world.

“What a creepy guy…Demanding that he join our expedition,” Isla grumbled. “What’s his true goal? Why is he so insistent on joining us?”

“I’m going to call Angel and the others,” Draga said. She takes out her cell phone and contacts Angel and the others.

- Greenery Pinnacle -

After the entire group united at where Haru was waiting for them, Netto was amazed at how tall the tower was. Its size could rival the Shibuya Tower. The various plants gave the building a very lush and colorful vibe. Some of the glass windows were left ajar to let the trees grow on the glass, concrete, and marble walls.

“Greenery Pinnacle is known as the archive of the plant world,” Sherrice informed. “This is where they showcase various plants all over the world.”

Once everyone entered the lobby, Netto recognized his native country’s plants like the Wisteria, Boxwood, and sedge. He also sees Haru with a slightly pleased look but it seems like a smirk to Netto and his group.

“Welcome, Netto,” Haru greeted. “I hope you enjoy Greenery Pinnacle!”

“I do not like the smug grin on his face,” Isla whispered.

“My family is a great contributor to the Greenery Pinnacle,” Haru argued. “Now have you decided to add me to your group?”

“Can we discuss this somewhere else in the building?” Netto requested, “Along with all the chosen team members.” Draga, Angel, Ruby, Frost, R.C., Aeon, Isla, Felica, Bulleta, Stacy, Henshin, and Natsu join the bandana boy’s side. Everyone else were silent due to how cautious they were around Haru’s presence.

“We’ll be fine, Aile-chan,” Netto assured. “Just go explore the tower by yourselves.”

“If you insist,” Ciel doubted. “Come on, let’s go to the Floor 3. A few weeks ago, I saw the online advertisement about a new exhibit opening in this building when researching what places to visit in Nikkōko. Bella, what about your group?”

“We’re going on a different floor,” Bella replied.

“If that’s the case, what about you Sherrice?” Ciel inquired.

“I’m going with Netto’s group,” Sherrice answered. “I want to see what Haru’s proposal is.”

“Good luck,” Spectra replied.

“If that’s the case then I have just the room to have our private discussion,” Haru smiled. “Come we’ll go to Floor 55.”

As Netto’s group follows Haru, Briana silently watches them with intense worry. Just who is this Haru guy? Will Netto and the other be okay with him? Her worrying thoughts were interrupted but Aimi.

“Hey, Briana! Join our group!” Aimi called, “We’re going to the third floor.”

“All right,” Briana replied. She joins her group as they go inside a vacant elevator. Before the door closes, she catches a glimpse of Netto and his group entering another elevator with Haru.

- Green Pinnacle [Floor 55: Kahli Exhibit] -

“Here, I believe a private meeting in the exhibition of your home country would suffice.”

“Kahli Exhibit?” Netto read.

“Kahli is the name of our home country,” Frost clarified. “I wonder if they have a display of the Rainbow Morning Glories.”

“We do,” Haru answered. He guides the entire group to a glass dome display showcase of said multicolored flowers.

“I can’t believe it!” Ruby cried in awe, “The staff here managed to keep them alive?! For this long?”

“That’s right,” Haru boasted. “My team is the one to successfully cultivate the Rainbow Glories in captivity. Although it did take a lot of trial and error to make sure the lighting, water, and soil quality was the same environment as Kahli’s.”

“Amazing, to think that today’s technology can manage to do this,” Aeon commented.

“Now then, follow me. I have reserved a private room to discuss the team arrangements.” Haru guides them to said reserved room.

- Bryony Meeting Room -

The walls were beige with paintings of green leaves overlapping each other, brown carpeted floors, and white ceilings. The furniture was white circular tables with green chairs circling it. Haru settled the group down on the largest table which was quite different than the others. At least 20 chairs were circling around it. Everyone takes their seat.

“Everyone, this table has a built-in network for your Navis to enjoy. Just plug it into the USB Ports and they will join in this conversation,” Haru instructed.

Netto’s group complied and the ones with NetNavis plugged into the table comp.

- Bryony Network -

Avatar was graced with a sci-fi version of the same meeting room, but what was different as it seemed to be inside a huge building with huge glass windows that showcased the plants that were seen in the Green Pinnacle. On the tables were imitations of real food like cookies and cake.

“Welcome to the Bryony Network,” Tundraman greeted. “Please enjoy the food courtesy of the chef’s Navi from the Sawara Food Court.” Haru’s Navi is mostly purple, and indigo with hints of green. His helmet was purple with icicles sticking out from the left side of his forehead gen, and a chain of ice with a sharp arrowhead that resembled a braid. His chest armor had his operator’s emblem on the chest area and was styled like an open vest. Finally, his purple boots had yellow rollerblades on his soles.

“Whoa, are these real cookies?” Radioman asked with awe.

“Not exactly,” Tundraman explained. “CookMan has been trying to replicate the taste of real human food for years, but we’ve recently gotten a breakthrough due to the assistance of the Cyber Delights Company. I’ve also inquired that Avatar was among the volunteers that tested the company’s sample.” This bit unnerved the grey Navi, just how much snooping did Haru and Tundraman do? Regardless, we should get down to business. My operator wants to join your team to travel to the other dimensions.”

Everyone was confused, why are Haru and Tundraman so adamant about joining the team? They seem to underestimate how perilous the journey could get to rescue Purity and her Zeva from Nix’s clutches. Would they handle the harsh trials that lay before them?

“Tundraman, what you and Haru are asking is very bold yet foolish,” Avatar commented. “Once that 1,000 year portal opens up we don’t know what kind of dangers await us when we go through it. If we are lucky, we could end up in Universe C, a world in which there is a perfect union between organic and cybernetics. A utopia between humans and Navis. However, if we end up unlucky then in Universe, a war-torn world that is under control by the nefarious, mysterious organization Nix. What we also heard from Netto is that his old friends had to traverse a vast desert on foot.”

“And Universe A?” Tundraman inquired.

“Universe A is the most normal out of all the other dimensions,” Avatar explained. “Sure they have P.E.T. Technology like the others, but there’s nothing special about it. At the moment, they seem to be living peaceful lives.”

“So let me get this straight, Universe A is the normal one, Universe B, our home world has magic, Universe C is the perfect union of Human and NetNavis, and Universe D is a war-ton world, am I correct?” Tundraman summarized.

“Correct, so what are you trying to offer?” Rideman asked. “I mean if we end up in Universe D then you should have some survival skills. I heard from Bulleta that it isn’t easy to gather supplies when surviving especially in a desert environment.”

“I am well aware of that,” Tundraman acknowledged. “In fact, Haru is a member of the Boy Scouts Program. So he knows the basics such as starting a fire, gathering clear water, and cooking.”

“So does Bulleta,” Amar recalled. “She told us countless stories of survival when hunting Umbras to get some money before her uncle came and took care of her.”

“That girl does have a rough life, doesn’t she?” Tundraman commented, “I heard that she is under the care of her uncle, so why didn’t he take her in sooner?”

“There were some complications regarding the paperwork on finding any surviving members of her family,” Mira recalled. “She was legally adopted by her uncle once she was eight.”

“Interesting,” Tundraman commented. “Regardless, Haru’s survival skills is suitable enough to survive in whatever harsh environment your team travels upon.”

“How bold to believe your operator’s abilities…” Amar commented. Tundraman just silent glared at her sarcastic statement.

“Are you good Net Battlers?” Radioman asked, “Because we probably are going to be fighting for our lives if what Netto is true, we will be going against a criminal organization to save Purity and her Zeva vessel from their clutches.”

“We are actually one of the top 1% of Net Battlers in the country,” Tundraman boasted. “We even won a few tournaments.”

“Show some proof,” Avatar doubted.

Tundraman complied and showed a certificate and two trophies detailing their accomplishments.

Haru Hikawa and Tundraman EXE

Congratulations on being in the 1% of the Toyama International Net Battling Tournament

The two trophies were golden with 1^st Place plastered on it and a plague under it. The first trophy details the Nakata Tournament

Haru Hikawa and Tundraman EXE

Winner of the Nakata Tournament 5XX

The second trophy details the Nakazawa Tournament.

Haru Hikawa and Tundraman EXE

Winner of the Nakazawa Tournament 5XX

“Hang on, I remember those tournaments!” Amar recognized, “Remember Radioman, we were watching a live stream of the Nikkōkion* Tournaments a few years ago.”

“Damn, I didn’t know there was a Net Battler that was at a higher skill level than Aeon even Isla would be surpassed!”

“Now that I have proof of our achievements is that enough to join? We are fully aware of the risks and we are very capable Net Battlers. So, are you giving us a chance to join our team?”

“Give us more time,” Mira answered. “Not all of our team members are here to give an informative answer.”

“Who is missing?” Tundraman demanded, “I see that all of your team members are here.”

“Savannah and Crystalman are absent,” Radioman revealed. “They are also a part of our expedition team.”

“Tch! Very well, but consider us as part of our team,” Tundraman insisted. “We will be great assets to your team.”

- Bryony Meeting Room -

“Hey, Haru-kun? Why are you so insisted on joining us?” Netto asked, “We barely met you and I’m worried that you may be unable to do this task due to how much ‘responsibility’ will be shouldered onto you.”

“I am aware that traveling to different dimensions could be a perilous journey but I am more than capable of handling such a task.” Haru assured, “But if you must know my true intentions, it is because I want to prove to myself that I’m capable of bearing the Hikawa name.”

Something familiar strikes Stacy and she speaks up. “Ah, I know where this is heading. Haru are you trying to impress your family members? To prove that you are important to the Hikawa Family?”

“Hey, that’s not right! Papa might be the head scientist of the Ministry of Science but he accepts my decisions and doesn’t push his expectations onto me!”  Netto added, “He loves me for me, not what I could do for my family name!”

“You don’t understand!” Haru exploded. “For all my life, I was considered mediocre in the family! We are the last surviving family that has great ties to the Great Restoration Era! My brothers are very accomplished in the medical field and my younger sister is talented in the arts, especially oil painting. Her pieces are being fetched at high prices in the art world. And what do I have to offer? Nothing! My accomplishments in the Net Battling World were not recognized by them!”

Haru’s words struck a core of familiarity with Netto, his backstory reminded him of Enzan. The heir to a powerful family that owns a well-known and profitable company. Probably lived a lonely life due to his father’s focus on the company’s growth. However, he had to stop himself. He could lean a hand and hear about his problems, but he’s not a therapist so he can’t fix his deep-seated family issues. “Haru…Our journey isn’t about glory and fame but about saving those we care about,” He reminded, “I accepted Draco’s contract because I want to see my loved ones again. Per the terms of his deal, I have to rescue his sister and her vessel from capture because he cares about them. I know you want your family to notice you but do you ever ask yourself, does my family love me for me? Do they love me unconditionally?”

“Haru, our issue with you joining our team is that you’re trying to impress your family,” Stacy added. “I had a mother who did not give one iota about me, so I lived with Bulleta’s uncle when I took the hint that she did not love me at all. So I ask you Haru, if your goal to join our team is to impress your family with your accomplishments then that’s conditional love! Love from your parents, siblings, and other families should not come from meeting expectations!”

“Damn, Stacy isn’t that a little harsh?” Aeon criticized.

“Aeon, figuring out that some people don’t care about you even if you achieved great things was a hard lesson I had to learn from my uncaring biological mother and absentee father,” Stacy reasoned. “If Haru does come with us with that type of mindset; it is going to get us killed!”

This left Haru stunned as he did not think that his family still would not care for him even if he did save Purity and the Zeva. What if Stacy said was true? What if they truly didn’t love him for himself because he was different and mediocre? And even if he did accomplish great things would they start to love him? Looking back, they didn’t seem to care much even when he was younger. His drawings were scribbles compared to his sister’s and he wasn’t interested in medical studies. He starts to think that they won’t care if he fails or worse dies. He silently gets up from his seat and plugs out his Navi. “I understand…” Haru acknowledged, “I apologize for being so upfront about this…” He gets up from his seat and quietly leaves the room as he plugs out his Navi.

- Sawara Food Court: Floor 20 -

After meeting with Haru ended on a sad note, they all went to Floor 20 to eat at the food court to ease their minds. Netto was amazed that the food court was decorated with Sawara Cypress Trees. He could recognize the spiky and blunt tips of their scaly leaves and the recognizable red-brown bark. He checked their menu and noticed that their dessert section was decent in terms of options such as cookies, cakes, pudding, brownies, and frozen sweets.

They waited silently to the side after they submitted their orders. Once their dishes were ready to be served they all took them and sat down at a big empty table with many chairs. They felt bad about rejecting Haru.

“Stacy, man, did you really have to lay down a harsh life lesson onto him?” Aeon commented.

“Why are you sympathizing with him, Aeon?” Isla asked, “I mean he was being very intrusive, looking into Netto’s background and trying to weasel his way into our group!”

“I do feel bad, he was trying to gain his family’s love through accomplishments,” Stacy lamented. “But it had to be done if he wasn’t given that harsh lesson now then it could spell future disaster during our expedition. The way he talks about earning his family love brought back some bad memories.”

“Still, a bit too harsh…” Draga commented.

“Such softies…” Bulleta added, “In real life, we may overcome things that we don’t want to hear but need to know. That is how we become capable and responsible adults. I know this because I grew up too fast on the streets to survive.”

“Hey, it’s not your fault, Bulleta,” Stacy consoled. “You didn’t choose to live in the streets and suffer poverty. You were pretty young back then.”

“Hey guys!” Aimi greeted, “We’re back!” She notices that everyone looks down in the dumps. “Is everything okay?”

“Well, Aimi, long story short Stacy gave that Haru guy a harsh life lesson about impressing people with status,” Isla summarized.

“Oof, that was savage even for you Stacy,” Aile commented. “Normally, you are quiet when people boast about their status.”

“It’s just something about Haru’s story about impressing his relatives just brought back bad memories of my old home life,” Stacy replied. “It was harsh but necessary, let’s hope he does not bother us again with joining our team.”

- Cypress Network -

The server was decorated with a background of floating plants and different food icons. A lot of the NetNavis were sitting at the tables either to socialize or consume the cyber food like desserts and coffee.

Avatar and her friends were sitting at a big table with chairs surrounding it. “That meeting didn’t end well…” Rideman commented.

“I know, Stacy giving Haru a harsh life lesson got his self-esteem destroyed,” Mira added.

“So…Are we going to go with our original team plan or should we add Haru and Tundraman to our team?” Radioman asked.

“We’re going with the original team plan,” Avatar replied. “Even before I got here, all the team members were already selected. Everyone is just making extra preparations of doing additional training for the big interdimensional journey once the 22^nd hits.”

“That is true,” Mira agreed. “If Haru and Tundraman came with us then it could put our plans into jeopardy.”

Reina and Delia approach their table carrying their orders. Reina’s order was blueberry and lemon cake while Delia was carrying some frozen Watermelon Pops. “Hey, guys! Can we sit at your table?”

“Sure, we have empty chairs here,” Rideman accepted.

The two female Navis sit in two of the empty seats and put down their dishes. “You wouldn’t believe what the chef, CookMan brewed up.” Delia beamed, “These are supposed to imitate the taste of real human food!”

“We actually were given a buffet of sorts when we were meeting up with Tundraman,” Radioman revealed. “But Tundraman’s persistence to join our team kind of soured our appetite, so we didn’t eat any of it.”

“Can I try one?” Avatar asked, “I want to taste one of Delia’s pops.”

“Sure!” Delia beamed. The magenta Navi hands one to the grey Navi and Avatar takes a bite. It was cold as expected but she couldn’t describe what flavor it was since she never tasted watermelon before. “Do you like it? It’s sweet but slightly tarty.”

- Sawara Food Court: Floor 20 -

After everyone got their orders, they rearranged the tables and chairs so they would all connect into one big table. The mood got lighter due to the additions of Spectra, Joan, Bella, Briana, Ciel, Aile, Aimi, and her mother. Netto was sitting close to Ruby, Frost, Aeon, and Isla; he overheard them talking about non-relate stuff like careers, hobbies, and other shared interests. He felt a sense of melancholy as it reminded him of simpler times when he was still attending Mariko-sensei’s class. He would chat away endlessly with his friends while either their lunch at their desks. He quietly nibbles on his Snickerdoodle Cookie as the four chat about Magic User related topics.

However, this got him thinking, that ever since he visited Nikkōko, he thought that it would bring him closure. Instead, it opened emotional wounds of his longing to return back home to his friends and family. He didn’t give them a proper goodbye before he was magically whisked away to another world. After he completes his task of rescuing Purity and her Zeva, he still has to come to a decision on whether not to return home to Universe A or stay in Universe B. He fears that it could spark a war between the two groups he wouldn’t be surprised if Rockman and Avatar were the ones to instigate it. If only there was an easy and agreeable compromise.

- Ichika Hotel [Room 540] -

Everything was quiet once Netto, Frost, Aeon, and Henshin returned to their hotel room. The quartet decided to watch an action, comedy film but needed to some food and drinks.

“So where do get our food?” Aeon asked.

“Room service is out of the question,” Frost answered. “The food may be good but the prices are pretty expensive. I checked their menu and it’s quite pricey. Seriously that much for a salad?”

“I know, we can check to see if there’s a konbini nearby!” Netto suggested.  

“Konbini?” Henshin asked confused.

“It’s a term the locals from my home country used to describe a convenience store that is open 24/7,” Netto explained. “I went on vacation with my friends once and we would grab a bite at the nearby konbini near our reserved hotel. The prices are pretty cheap and the food is really good! Come on, let’s go find one!”

“It’s settled then, let’s find the store and grab some grub before our movie,” Aeon agreed.

- Sugihara Konbini Store -

The quartet was lucky that there was one nearby the hotel. The interior was very similar to the inside of a gas station. However, it seems much cleaner and the hues of pink and green give it a spring vibe. There were small shelves that displayed a huge selection of different foods. Some of them were inside display fridges. “Whoa, so this is what a konbini is?” Aeon commented.

“I don’t see the appeal though,” Henshin doubted. “It looks like the gas station convenience stores back home.”

“The Konbini stores are well known for serving food with fresh ingredients that are either fresh or frozen.” Netto explained, “It’s really good, especially their fried chicken.”

“Well, considering how clean everything is and how many food options there are, I think this place is very enjoyable to eat in,” Frost commented positively.

“So, what food and drink we should buy?” Henshin asked. “I’m taking Netto’s word and going to buy the fried chicken, I hope the bucket combo isn’t too expensive.”

“I like the music in this place, it sets the mood of the spring night,” Aeon was happily listening to the music.

“I’m going to go choose the drinks,” Frost said. “What drinks do you want?”

“What do you recommend Netto?” Henshin asked. “I heard their soda is good. What was it called ram-un?”

“No, that’s Ramune,” Netto corrected. “It’s a special type of Japanese carbonated soft drink. It’s popular with the children. I still like it though.”

“In that case, I want to try the strawberry variant,” Henshin beamed.

“Okay, Strawberry flavored Ramune,” Frost repeated, “What about you Aeon and Netto?”

“Mango flavored Ramune for me!” Netto beamed.

“Just get me a yellow Gatorade,” Aeon answered.

“Okay, got it, I’m going to get them,” Frost replied. He goes to the drink section which was all the way in the back.

“Well, I’m going to go buy the fried chicken,” Henshin added. “I’ll meet up with you later.”

“Hey Netto, why don’t we hang out together and check the whole store together?” Aeon suggested. “I’m sure that we could find some snacks to try back at the hotel. I know we hang out before but this is the first time we hang out as a duo, so let’s make the best of it!”

“Okay!” Netto agreed.

The duo explored the konbini. Aeon was more enthusiastic since he saw some food items that were unavailable in his home country. “Look, Netto! They have these Nikkōkion Spicy Chips, I want to try them!” Aeon noted, “I went to an Eastern Specialty Food Store once back home in Kahli, but my parents disapproved of it due to how expensive it is. Something about import tax or something.”

“Okay, we’ll get it,” Netto added.

As they explored more of the store, Aeon found more food items he wanted to buy. First was some cold treats like the mochi ice cream. “Do you think, Frost and Henshin would want to try these?” Aeon asked. “I’m tempted to buy the mango flavor.”

“Cookies and cream are my favorite flavor, so let’s buy that!” Netto added.

Second, were the country-exclusive sweets. “Okay, Netto, what type of sweets should we buy? I’m not very familiar with the types of sweets in this country, so what do you recommend?”

“Melonpan!” Netto answered.

“Melonpan?” Aeon repeated in confusion.

“It’s a sweet bun that is covered with a thin layer of crispy cookie dough!” Netto explained, “Its appearance resembles a melon.”

“Hey, look Netto, these types of Melonpan are shaped like turtles!” Aeon observed. He was pointing to a food display case that was showcasing them. Most were green but there were beige and pink variants.

“Oh, Sakura-themed,” Netto pointed out. “It’s still springtime so there are still some in stock. And on sale too!” Netto grabbed the pink and green ones and added them to the cart.

As they pass by another shelf, Aeon notices a particular brand of instant ramen noodles specifically a certain flavor. “Hey, Netto! There’s some instant noodles that have a curry flavor here! You want to buy it.”

Netto froze. “It had been a while since I had curry…” Netto paused for a moment. Noodles and curry reminded him of when he first met Chisao. He was visiting Dekao and got sucked into a rivalry between an Udon noodle shop and MaHa Ichiban. He was being manipulated by the Udon noodle shop owner to attack the curry shop’s network, but his plans were foiled. The day ended with a collaboration of a dish that combined both Udon noodles and curry. It was a pretty weird day looking back*.

“You’re not going to buy it?”

“No, besides Henshin is going to buy the fried chicken,” Netto reminded. “That’s going to be our dinner.”

As they explore by sheer coincidence, they bump into Haru. “Oh, shit! Is that…”

“Haru-kun?”

“But, he seems quiet…” Aeon observed. “I guess Stacy’s lesson had a more profound effect on him. Come on, let’s leave him alone. He doesn’t want to be bothered.” He grabs Netto’s arm as go to regroup with Frost and Henshin.

As the quartet reunites at the register, they banter for a bit. Aeon explains his and Netto’s encounter with Haru.

“Really, he didn’t utter a word?” Henshin asked.

“Nope, he seems really out of it,” Aeon answered. “In fact, I don’t think he overheard our conversation even though we were kind of close to him.”

“Come on, let’s pay for our food and head back to the hotel,” Frost interjected.

Netto was worried about Haru and wanted to talk to him, but he had to stop himself. He wasn’t a therapist and even if he did try, the Hikawa guy would push him away. He hated this, he didn’t care before about wanting to help people. Now, there were more considerations to ponder, or maybe he was overthinking things. He decides to make up his mind. “Hey guys, I want to talk to Haru?”

“Seriously?”

“That Haru guy?” Henshin doubted, “But Netto have you forgotten about his persistence? He might see this as an opportunity to squeeze his way into our group.”

“It wouldn’t hurt to try!” Netto protested. “Besides if he pushes away, we will go back to the hotel!”

“And he persists to join our team?” Frost asked.

“Well, reject him and go on our way?” Netto answered.

“Good boy…” Avatar commented.

“Hey, I’m not a dog!” Netto argued.

“Hey, Haru-chan…” Netto uttered.

Haru was surprised and turned back to see Netto and his other male friends behind him. “Oh, it’s you again…What do you want?”

“I’m sorry that the meeting you had earlier went south…” Netto apologized.

“To be honest, I’m surprised you are apologizing to me,” Haru commented. “Even though it was the green-haired girl’s fault.”

“You mean Stacy?” Henshin clarified.

“Exactly,” Haru added. “To be perfectly clear, this is the first time, someone actually approached me much less apologized even though it was not their fault.”

“You mean, you don’t have any friends?” Netto asked.

“I was a little selfish when I was younger…” Haru admitted. “I was more focused on gaining my family’s praise then making friends. My pride kind of got in the way.”

“So, you made all kinds of impressions on them but nothing worked?” Henshin guessed.

“Yes, I tried all sorts of things. First, I try to excel in science but I couldn’t handle all the formulas and calculations. My scores were mediocre compared to my older brothers. Second was art. I tried to paint a masterpiece like my sister. However, my art was something even an infant could draw.”

“So, you’re only good in Net Battling?” Aeon deducted, “You did show us those rewards so that’s an accomplishment. Not many people get to be winners at a country-wide tournament.”

“Yeah, but that’s the problem!” Haru argued, “Most people don’t consider Net Battling as a sport. Some of my relatives even scoffed at my achievements.”

“Damn! That’s pretty harsh!” Aeon commented, “I could understand why you didn’t retaliate. Takes a lot of guts to stand up against your family. Take it from me, at first my parents didn’t approve of my Net Battling. But after I showed them that I could be a great one, they slowly warmed up to it. Of course, it isn’t because of my achievements in Net Battling, but because they loved me deep down and wanted me to succeed in whatever interests me.”  

“Your parents didn’t approve of your Net Battling as well,” Haru asked. “I didn’t know that…Is this what is like to have friends? To bond over something common?”

“I mean if you put it that way, Netto and I bond over Net Battling so that checks out,” Aeon agreed.

“By the way, it is pretty late, shouldn’t you be at home?” Avatar asked.

“About that, Haru went for a stroll when everyone in his home went to bed,” Tundraman answered.

“So, he snuck out?” Radioman asked. “That’s pretty bold yet expected from a teenager.”

“I’m only 13,” Haru snapped. “I just went for a stroll to clear my head and ended up bumping into the ones that rejected my offer. Why is Chaos so cruel sometimes?”

“That’s just how she is,” Avatar replied. “Though most of the time, it’s probably bad luck on your end.”

“Good to know from a NetNavi like you,” Haru sassed.

“By the way, Haru, shouldn’t be going home?” Frost asked. “It’s kind of late…”

“It’s fine…My parents and siblings are used to my behavior,” Haru answered. “Though I always come home in the morning.”

“So, do you want to hang out with us?” Netto smiled, “I mean Frost, Aeon, Henshin, and I are going back to our hotel to eat food and watch a movie together before bed.”

“You’re inviting me?” Haru asked.

“Is it okay, Netto?” Frost cautioned, “Does Haru have any sleepwear and toiletries like a toothbrush and toothpaste?”

“Of course, I do,” Haru brings out his black duffle bag with a night sky pattern and shows the exact contents that Frost questioned. “Every time, I go out I always bring them.”

“Okay, it’s settled, you can stay with us for the night!”

“Like a sleepover?”

“Of course, we’re friends!” Netto beamed.

‘Friends…’ Haru mentally thought.

- Ichika Hotel [Room 540] -

That night, the boys had to rearrange the furniture so that the tables were at the end of their beds. Luckily, there was a chair and an end table that Haru could use to sit and eat food.

“So, the movie we are watching is Alley Combatants II: Agrat’s Revenge*!” Netto answered, “It’s based on a video game franchise of the same name. Something about a villain named Agrat getting revenge on his opponent, Dragan, for beating him in a tournament three years ago. There’s also a crime syndicate plot and Dragan getting involved in it.”

“So, the main theme is revenge right?” Haru asked, “And the antagonist’s plot is a pretty petty one for Dragan humiliating him at a tournament three years ago. Not a very deep plot.”

“It doesn’t have to be,” Aeon interjected. “If the movie is entertaining then it is a solid one to me.”

The movie plays and the boys just silently watch as they quietly eat their food. Once the movie was finished, they cleaned up and got ready for bed. Haru had brought a sleeping bag and was sleeping between the two beds. Netto was fast asleep after taking his medication. However, the Hikawa boy was still wide awake. He looks to his right and sees Aeon and Henshin sleeping. It was hard to sleep with him snoring loudly. However, there was another reason why Haru couldn’t sleep. Why was Netto so nice to him?

He looked to his left and Frost was still half asleep. He notices Haru staring at him. “Is there something wrong?” Frost whispered.

“…It’s nothing really…Just thinking, go back to bed.”

“You questioning why Netto was suddenly so kind to you?” Frost asked, “I was also surprised that he treated you so well even though you were very rude and persistent. Maybe he saw some good in your heart when we were attending a party, he would avoid certain people because of his Draconian powers.”

“I’ve heard of rumors of it,” Haru recalled. “The Aaron or Zeva can sense whether a person is good or evil based on their aura and heart. To think…”

“You still have a good heart?” Frost answered, “If Netto can easily befriend you, you still are a good person even if you are selfish and pushy. That means that you have a lot of improvement to do. Maybe then you get people to love and respect you for yourself.” Frost’s last words before he dozes off stir something in Haru as he thinks back on all of his past actions.

EXTRA:

Haru Hikawa

Tundraman EXE

Chapter Text

Dr. Cerys was chatting with her colleague, Dr. Collier. They were discussing the endless possibilities of Avatar’s materialization abilities and how they could be used to help evolve society in the far future.

Dr. Collier had short black hair with red sideburns, orange eyes, and slightly tanned skin. He wore the same white lab coat as Dr. Cerys but wore a beige shirt underneath, black jeans, and brown loafer shoes.

“I appreciate your ideas and theories on what we should be doing about Avatar’s materialization abilities, but we need to discuss the huge elephant in the room.” Dr. Cerys cautioned, “This type of ability could be easily abused. It’s one of the issues I had warned about in my report. I know we live in peaceful times but that can easily be shattered if her abilities were weaponized.” 

“Then why did you install it into Avatar in the first place?” Dr. Collier asked, “Why risk it if you were so worried that her abilities could easily fall into the wrong hands?”

“Because Netto is the Aaron,” Dr. Cerys lied. “He needs a bodyguard particularly a strong one to protect him from harm. Our Universe may be peaceful but we don’t know about the other three. Corruption may still be rampant there. How would they react to the technology we created? Would they fear it and try to destroy it or use it for their own selfish desires that could spell untold disaster.”

“Hey, Dr. Cerys, calm yourself,” Dr. Collier assured. “I know that your worries are justified but you must have fate if we put restrictions and fail-safes that a war could be avoided.”

“I hope so…” Dr. Cerys doubted, “So about this project you developed? What was it called again?”

“The Internet Partner Exchange, or IPX System for short, allows the operator and NetNavi to switch realms temporarily. After getting approved and receiving funding, we gathered a couple of volunteers who fulfilled the requirements of our system. Don’t worry; we applied some restrictions to ensure it doesn’t get abused.”

“So, what are the inner workings of the IPX System and what are these restrictions and fail-safes?” Dr. Cerys asked.

“The IPX System allows Net Navis to materialize in the real world by changing places with their operators to eliminate Umbras and Penumbras should they come either the real world or the Internet,” Dr. Collier explained. “I know it is highly unlikely they will pop into the Cyber World, but you can never be too sure. Especially with the thousand-year portal opening during the Summer Solstice, it is when the barriers of the four dimensions are weakened to permit travel. Who knows if that includes our physical world and the Cyber World? As for the restrictions, we learned a few things pretty quickly after a year of testing with our volunteers. First, only one Navi can exchange places with one operator. If an operator has more than one Navi or a Navi has more than one operator then the one with the highest Synchro Rate will most likely be chosen. Second, if the volunteer is a Magic User then their powers can be transferred to their Navi. I’m not sure if the same thing applies to Magic User Operators can use their Navi’s default weapons. Finally, only an Operator and Navi duo Synchro Rate above 50% can use it successfully, anything lower and it will not work.

As for fail-safes, we created a VPN called Alin Harmony. It is an isolated server, so it is not connected to any other network. This is to make sure that the operator is safe from harm. If any viruses or Navis tries to enter it, we have some security programs in place to deal with them. The operator will see their Navi from the safety of the Alin Harmony Network via screen or manifest as a hologram that only the NetNavi can see. So they cannot be harmed by NetNavis and Viruses.”

“What interesting developments happen if the volunteer is a Magic User?” Dr. Cerys deflected.

“Oh, yes, well when that Magic User switches places with his/her Navi, they leave behind marking similar to a tattoo,” Dr. Collier answered. He brings out his tablet and showcases his findings to the female scientist. There were various pictures of NetNavis with different markings and colorations on either their stomach, legs, or arms. Dr. Cerys was amazed at the results. One Navi had red flame markings. Another had rock tattoos on their fists and legs.

“This is amazing, is this a side effect of using the IPX System?”

“Yes,” Dr. Collier replied. “The markings matched the type of the Navi’s operator.”

“Do they go away? Once the Navi stops using the system?”

“It’s hard to say, in some cases, they do go away but in others, it’s a permanent cosmetic change.”

“What are the negative side effects that this system created?”

“Well, we found that it is a quite painful and unexpected one,” Dr. Collier replied. “You see when we were testing the fighting capabilities during a Net Battle, the operator can feel the ‘sensations’ every time his/her Navi takes damage.”

“Oh my, was it that serious?” Dr. Cerys inquired.

“Yes, one volunteer reported that his left arm suddenly went numb and limb, he was unable to move his muscles, and the nerves were paralyzed. He couldn’t even lift that affected arm.” Dr. Collier explained, “However, he could feel and move it again after his Navi was fully repaired.”

“So, that is one of the more severe drawbacks to the IPX System…”

“Yes, the higher the bond or Synchro Rate between Operator and NetNavi, the more severe the pain is whether physical or emotional,” Dr. Collier clarified. “After doing many tests, some volunteers called in and informed us that their NetNavi felt the same pain. One reported that she accidently bruised her elbow and her Navi felt the exact sensation. We called this phenomenon, Synchronized Link Syndrome or SLS for short.”

“SLS?” Dr. Cerys repeated.

“Yes, but we are quickly and currently coming up with a treatment in any case an Operator and NetNavi duo suffer a serve case of it,” Dr. Collier assured. “Although, symptoms usually manifest when the Synchro Rate between Operator and NetNavi is more than 80%. The more severe cases are when the Synchro Rate is more than 90%. However, an Operator and NetNavi due with a Synchro Rate in the nineties is very rare maybe mythical right now.”

“How far is the completion of the IPX System Project?”

“We’re almost done,” Dr. Collier replied. “We might be done before the Summer Solstice. Although, I am a bit bummed that you didn’t recommend some of the Net Battlers in the town. I had to transport most of the volunteers from Avril Denka and other nearby cities to test it out.”

“Your project was in the early stages and I didn’t want the children of my hometown to get hurt,” Dr. Cerys reasoned.

“You are too sentimental, but it is understandable,” Dr. Collier commented. “If we started testing the IPX System using the town’s children first, we would get complaints from their parents since it is a close-knit community. Their grievances would pressure higher-ups to eventually shut down our project prematurely.”

Dr. Cerys’s attention then turns to the metal tray where a couple of simple white bracelets with cyan highlights. A blank Navi Symbol is on the top. On closer inspection, there was a plug-in port on the side.

“So, these devices are connected to the IPX System?”

“Yes, they are called the Pulse Bonds,” Dr. Collier explained. “An unusual name but it works and fits the function. It can be easily adjustable and can be fit into any person’s wrist. However, they can be worn around the arm, leg, neck, or even around the head.”

“So, once the Operator connects their PET to this special bracelet, the IPX System will activate?”

“Of course, once connected, the Operator will choose to switch places with their Navi,” Dr. Collier confirmed. “However as a safety precaution, if the Pulse Bond is damaged then both the Navi and Operator will return to their respective worlds. We don’t want two people to be accidently stuck in two unfamiliar worlds. Another fail-safe is if the Navi is deleted then the Operator will return to the real world.”

“Yes, that is true,” Dr. Cerys agreed. ‘Though we already have a kid that is from another world that is from another world that is stuck in ours and that’s Netto.’ “Are you going to need more volunteers to fine-tune it more before being presented to the public?”

“Of course,” Dr. Collier beamed. “By the way, did you finish your project? Draga’s new NetNavi?”

“To be honest, I’m almost done.” Dr. Cerys answered, “All I need left is a name. I wasn’t able to give her one earlier because I need to make sure she’s perfect for her.”

- West Area [Cerys Residence (Living Room)] -

Netto, Angel, and Draga were making final preparations for their trip.

“So, is everyone ready? Convincing Savannah and Crystalman to join our team wasn’t easy,” Netto commented.

“Yup, it took some time persuading them to join us, but we’re ready!” Angel replied.

“Savannah is well-known for having connections to get the resources she needs,” Draga explained. “She is a great asset to our team despite how quiet and aloof she is.” She pauses as she looks disappointed and envious at Avatar projecting herself on Netto’s shoulder. In the past, she asked her aunt countless times to create a custom Navi for her. She gave up after the female scientist ignored her begging requests.”

“Hey, Draga-chan is something wrong?” Netto asked. “You keep staring at Avatar. Is it about her identity?”

“What, no! It’s just…I’m a little envious,” Draga admitted. “When I was younger, I wanted a NetNavi of my own. However, for some reason, she would always avoid the topic.”

“Maybe, it’s too expensive to create?” Angel guessed, “Custom Navis aren’t cheap to make.”

“That’s true but…Forget about it, it’s too selfish of me.” Draga replied, “I should be grateful that Auntie has enough to provide us with food and shelter.”

“No, it’s understandable,” Netto sympathized. “Before I got Rockman, I would beg Papa endlessly to give me a custom NetNavi. But with how busy he was with work at the time, I would always use a Normal Navi for net battles. I lost against Dekao so many times. So understand what it feels like, but who knows maybe Dr. Cerys is planning a surprise in terms of a custom Navi? Papa gave me Rockman after my old home’s oven caught on fire.”

“What?! How did your oven catch on fire?” Angel asked, “Wait, let me guess, it was an electric stove that was connected to the internet?”

“Yeah, the stove was invaded by viruses,” Netto confirmed.

“Netto, have you ever wonder if your old home world was a cyberpunk dystopic, urban-fantasy world set in modern day?” Angel asked.

“Huh? Cyber dystopia?” Netto repeated, “What do you mean?”

“I mean your description of what your old life was like back in Universe A with hackers causing havoc and cyber-terrorist organizations trying to end Net Society seems very dystopic to me,” Angel explained. “Is there any type of federal organization that deals with these kinds of threats?”

“Of course!” Netto beamed, “Before I came to this universe, I was a Net Savior, stopping evil crime organizations from either ruling or destroying Net Society.”

“Net Saviors? Are they some sort of cyber police force?” Avatar asked, “I am curious on how they function.”

“Okay, so back in my world, Japan has their own Cyber Police Branch called the Net Police. And they have a sub-branch called the Net Saviors,” Netto explained. “The Net Saviors is headed by a man called Commissioner Kifune and Superintendent Manabe-san. They are responsible for making sure the Internet is safe from massive crime outbreaks.”

“Interesting…” Avatar commented, “To think you were a great asset to the Net Saviors. And with Rockman as well. Though, I’m worried about something…”

“What is Ava?” Netto asked.

“It’s about Rockman, your old Navi,” Avatar confessed. “If he found out that you were still alive and operating me then…Forget it, that’s just my paranoid thoughts talking…”

“Avatar, I’m not going to abandon you…” Netto assured, “You vowed to never harm me, so I vow to never abandon you. So you have nothing to worry about. As for Rockman, if he chooses to join me again, you two will be partners!”

“Battle Partners? Is it possible for two NetNavis to get along and share one operator?”

“It is albeit very rare,” Netto explained. “Though how to solve the battle chip issue? It is pretty challenging to send two Battle Chips to two PETs at once, but if two Navis share a PET then that’s a different challenge in itself. Normally, when you slot a chip into the PET, the Navi will get all the benefits of the battle chip data to utilize the weapon properly. So if send a Battle Chip to both Avatar and Rockman, the data transfer may be incomplete. Or if it was successful then the weapon appears in both of your hands but the power won’t be at 100%.”

“So, if you slot-in a Sword Battle Chip to both of us, there are three scenarios,” Avatar hypothesized. “First one, Rockman and I would not get the weapon and the data transfer would fail. In the second one, either Rockman or I receive the Sword. And in the final one, both Rockman and I will receive the Sword but the power is cut in half. Is that correct?”

“Yes, but how to solve this dilemma?” Netto pondered, “Should we ask Dr. Cerys about this?”

“I’ll call Auntie’s work number to see if she’s available,” Draga offered. She gets out her cell phone and calls her relative’s number. It rings before it goes straight to an employee, “Hello, this is Draga. I want to know if Dr. Cerys is available.” Her call is put on hold for a while before she hears her aunt’s familiar voice.

“Hello? Draga, do you need something?”

“Hi, Auntie! Is okay if Netto, Angel, and I visit you today?” Draga requested, “We need to ask you something.”

“Of course, I actually wanted to call you to see if you and your friends are available,” Dr. Cerys responded. “Bring all the ones with NetNavis to the TDF District. A colleague of mine is testing a new project and needs help smoothing out and refining the smaller details.”

“Okay, I’ll bring them,” Draga ends the call and informs Netto and Angel about the news. “Dr. Cerys said she’s allowing us to visit but we need to gather everyone with a Navi there to test her colleague’s new program.”

“A new program for NetNavis? Okay, let’s bring them all over there!” Netto agreed. “I want to see what her colleague is creating.”

- North Area [TDF District (Laboratory Room)] -

Dr. Cerys was in her lab when she heard her lab door open. She turned around and was pleased to see Draga with all of the children she had befriended with a Navi. “Oh Draga, you came with all of your friends!” Accompanying Draga, Angel, and Netto were Isla, Aeon, Natsu, Savannah, Joan, Spectra, and Sherrice. They came along as they were also curious about what new project Dr. Cerys’s colleague was testing. “Everyone, this is Dr. Collier. He is my colleague and responsible for the creation of the IPX System.”

“IPX System?” Draga asked confused.

“What is that?” Joan added.

“It is a very special system that allows NetNavis to appear in the real world,” Dr. Collier explained.

“You mean without the help of a Dimensional Area?” Netto asked.

“Sort of,” Dr. Collier answered. “The Dimensional Area is still used for testing this system before it is veiled to the public. All we need is your and your Navis’ help in order to smooth out any minor details.”

“We’re in!” Isla beamed, “I’ve always wanted to see Amar up close!”

“Me too!” Aeon added.

“Alright, everyone, follow me!” Dr. Collier led Netto and the other children with Navis to another testing room. It was pretty spacious with an observation deck where the other scientists could see the results. Dr. Cerys, Draga, and Angel were among the spectators. Another scientist presents a silver tray with eight Pulse Bonds ready for testing.

“What are these?” Netto asked as he picked up one of the white bracelets.

“They look like regular jewelry to me,” Isla commented. She picks up another one and her fingertips trace the groves of the sleek device.

“So, how do they work?” Aeon pondered.

“You see that plug-in port on the bracelet? Connect your PET to it and your Navi will inform you once it is successfully connected.” The eight participants complied as they put on the bracelets and connected the Pulse Bonds with their PETs. All of the Navis informed them that they were all successfully linked to their devices.

“Okay, everything is set so how do we use these bracelets?” Isla asked.

“Be patient Isla,” Amar chastised. “I believe Dr. Collier is going into detail with that.”

“The bracelets you are currently wearing are called Pulse Bonds,” Dr. Collier explained. “When you connect PET to it, your Navi’s emblem appears on top of the plug in port. Press it and shout the name of your Navi. They will appear in the real world in your place.”

“You mean they switch places with us?” Aeon guessed.

“But where do we go?” Joan asked worried. “If Delia takes my place in the real world then where do I go went I get sent to the Internet?”

“Do not worry, we created a new network called Alin Harmony that keeps all operators safe when using the IPX System,” Dr. Collier assured. “It is on a VPN and isolated, so you don’t have to worry about malicious viruses and Navis breaking in. If you want to see your Navi battle, the server provides a screen for you to keep an eye on your Navi’s movements. However, if you want to see your Navi up close, then you can appear close by to your Navi in hologram form. Try it!”

Netto takes the initiative and goes first. He pressed the button and felt his pulse increase. He takes deep breaths to reassure himself and shouts his Navi’s name. “A-av-avatar!”

Analyzing Synchro Rate…

Synchro Rate: 75%

Requirement fulfilled!

Isla felt her heart stop and her eyes glowed a lime green before turning into a cluster of green crystals. Amar emerged from the shattered remains of the ethereal green rocks, on her arms and legs were green markings that resembled vines.

Everyone follows suit and taps the button on their Pulse Bonds, their eyes glow to the same eye color as their Navis. They then were enveloped into a cluster of different colored crystals. Aeon’s was pecan brown, Savannah’s was purple, Natsu’s was light blue, and Spectra’s was blue. However, Joan and Sherrice’s crystals were pastel teal. These details caught Draga and Angel’s attention.

“Auntie? Joan and Sherrice’s crystals are…”

“They are a different color than the others,” Dr. Cerys acknowledged. “This happens if the Operator is a non-Magic User when they use the IPX System.”

“At least they look a bit more distinct than the Normal Type Users,” Angel commented. “When the IPX System the color of the crystal is different from the others. It seems like a lighter shade of blue maybe a more neutral or paler variant.”

“Correct, when Dr. Collier showed me the results of the different colored crystals, I couldn’t help but compare them to the known Elemental Matters,” Dr. Cerys answered. “We compared every crystal to each Elemental Matter that is known to the scientific world and the public. For example, the red crystals represent the Red Elemental Matter and blue crystals represent the Blue Elemental Matter, etc.”

“Do you think the sudden spawning of the Elemental Matter could be connected to the Magic Users after the first Umbra Incident?” Draga guessed.

“There has been a lot of evidence that points to that conclusion, so it is very plausible,” Dr. Cerys acknowledged. “I can understand why some people would make that connection due to the color of crystals matching the types of the Magic Users utilizing the IPX System.”

All the crystals burst open revealing all the NetNavis.

“Are we…in the real world?” Radioman asked.

“This is so amazing!” Delia exulted. She spins around in utter excitement. “I’ve always wanted to feel the different sensations of the real world!”

Reina kneels down and presses her palm onto the cold lab floor. “It feels cool to the touch, are all surfaces in the real world like this?”

“Of course not,” Dr. Collier replied. “In our world, we have many different surfaces than the hard, cold ones from the Cyber World like the soft, cotton blankets or the rough, horse sandpaper. We have a huge variety of different textures here.”

“Really, you mean I have a chance to feel the texture of Natsu’s pink blanket or her favorite green cardigan?” Mira asked.

“Whoa, I have markings on my arms and legs as well,” Reina commented. She found tattoo marks resembling bubbles on her arms and lower calves.

“Radioman you have tattoos as well,” Delia observed. “They’re around your stomach area.”

Radioman looks down and sees that there are symbols of broken rocks on the front and sides of his stomach area. “Hey, you’re right! That is pretty weird.” He traces his fingertips over his newly acquired tattoos.

“Odd, I don’t have any markings.” Delia twirled around to see if there were any weird markings on her body.

“Sorry, Delia, but I don’t have them either,” Rideman added. “Apparently, they only appear if the Operator is a Magic User.”

“Are you serious?! But look at Mira and Crystalman, they have them as well,” Delia complained.

Mira had light blue markings with a dotted pattern inside hollow circles while Crystalman had dotted lines around his upper arms and legs.  

“Now that every Navi has materialized successfully into our world, I want you to delete a few viruses,” Dr. Collier instructed. “Don’t worry, we won’t send the strong ones.”

“Where are our operators?” Mira asked worried, “Did they get sent to the VPN that you and your team provided?”

“Yes, they are safe and listening to our conversation as we speak,” Dr. Collier answered. “Everyone, you can come down and see the fight.”

In a flash, the Navis saw their operators in the same space as them albeit they were now holograms.

“Netto?” Avatar asked.

“Avatar!” Netto beamed.

“Hey, I’m a life-sized hologram! The same one Amar uses,” Isla commented. “Feels weird though…” Everyone else had feelings of either amazement or anxiety due to being see-through.

“Relax, everyone, this is temporary,” Dr. Collier assured. “The previous volunteers also had the same experience.”

“Can Dr. Collier and the others see us?” Joan asked, “What about the people in the observatory deck? Can they see us?”

“Hey, Dr. Collier, we’re here!” Netto cried. However, the black-haired scientist with red streaks didn’t seem to acknowledge the bandana brunette’s cries. “Eh? He couldn’t hear me…”

“Dr. Collier, Netto hollered at you, but you didn’t respond,” Avatar informed.

“I apologize, the holograms can only be seen by other NetNavis if they substantiate in the real world via IPX System,” Dr. Collier explained. “This always happens when we test it with the other volunteers. Their Navis always informed me that my team couldn’t hear them, so we had to create a standard procedure to make sure the operators felt more at ease. The Navi acts like a translator to rely on information from another human to their operator and vice versa. However, there is a benefit to being a hologram. You cannot get hurt by either a virus, another human, or another Navi.”

“So, other humans can’t hear us and we need to rely on our own Navis to exchange information with them,” Natsu grasped. “That’s very creepy…It feels so isolating. If Mira isn’t there then no one else can hear us?”

“Not exactly,” Dr. Collier corrected. “My team is monitoring the VPN and you aren’t alone. There are other operators here that are in the same space as you. You can always return to the Alin Harmony Network if you are feeling any distress. Now, we move on to the testing. First is Virus Busting. Can you do that?”

“Sure, that seems easy enough!” Delia beamed.

Dr. Collier then goes off to the side against the wall and his team unleashes the viruses. The Navis make quick work of deleting them using only their default weapons. After the test ended, Dr. Collier congratulated the Navis on how they quickly deleted the viruses. “All right, everyone good work! Now the second and final test is Penumbra Extermination. When testing the IPX System, the Navis gain their operator’s moves. This includes their elemental powers and their weapons.”

“Like Isla’s Arrow Attack?” Amar interjected.

“Of course,” Dr. Collier answered. “However, we are unsure if Operators can use their Navi’s default moves. Since we were hesitant in letting humans fight viruses even the Magic Users ones. All right, we’ll bring in the Containment Boxes and once my team and I leave the room, we’ll release the Penumbras. Better safe than sorry.” Some of Dr. Collier’s team enter the room with six boxes. Once they were put into position, Dr. Collier and his team quickly left the room and joined everyone in the observation deck. Once everyone was in position, Dr. Collier pressed a button from a small remote, and the boxes were automatically pried open. Slithering out were the Infused-Matter Penumbras. The revealed elements were Fire, Water, Grass, Electric, Terrain, and Wind.

“Holy shit, this is the first time I confronted one!” Radioman commented, “No wonder, Aeon and the other participants in the Process of Discovery Trials were so afraid of them.”

Avatar remains calm, no time to panic when dealing with these monsters. ‘If my knowledge of the Elemental Matters and the typing system has served me well then…’ She holds her arms up, ‘Netto, lead me your power!’ Netto emitted a yellow light which caught everyone off guard.

“Netto, you’re glowing!” Isla observed.

“What is happening to Netto?” Joan asked.

Avatar’s arms glow and once they resided a copy of her operator’s dual Giga Buster Guns appeared. However, the colors were different. Instead of the parts being orange and yellow, they were now blue, grey, and white to match her color scheme. She fires at the Wind-Infused Penumbra and luckily gets stunned. “Amazing…So I gain Netto’s weapons? What about his sword?” Her arms glowed again and the guns were replaced by a customized Elec weapon. What about his sword?” Her arms glowed again the guns were replaced by a customized Elec Sword that wasn’t attached to her arm like a regular one. “Is this? Netto’s other weapon, his Thunder Saber? I guess it does translate to an Elec Sword though. She charged at the Water-Infused Penumbra and it was instantly dissipated.

“Whoa, that is so cool!” Radioman commented. “Aeon, let me use your power!” Aeon glowed a pecan brown and his arms glowed. Once they rescinded, Aeon’s gauntlets appeared on it. “So, cool! Alright, then!” He slams his fist onto the ground, cracks begin to appear. It reaches and destroys a Grass-Infused Penumbra.

Amar turns to Isla and the braided girl nods in acknowledgement. Her operator glows green and to her surprise, her left arm transformed into a green version of the Triple Arrow Battle Chip. She aims and fires an arrow at the Electric Infused Penumbra; it is instantly destroyed by the attack.

“My turn!” Reina beamed. She concentrates and Spectra’s starts glowing blue. A white Spreader Gun appears on her right arm; she rapidly fires bubbles that instantly kill the Fire-Infused Penumbra. “No way, Reina’s Bubble Attack translated to a custom Bubble Spread?!”

“So our operator’s weapons and their elemental powers translate into new or pre-existing, custom Battle Chips?” Mira pondered.

“Allow me to destroy one,” Crystalman offered. Savannah closed her eyes and glowed purple. “Diamond Scatter!” The Terrain Infused Penumbra attacked after being damaged but instead of damaging the red and blue crystal Navi, it went right through it.

“No way, is that the equivalent to the Invisible Battle Chip?” Delia observed.

“Crystal Wave!” Crystalman’s second attack destroyed the Terrain-infused Penumbra by creating a wave of crystals.

The last Penumbra was the Wind-Infused one. “Let me take care of the last one!” Delia offered. “Joan send me a Battle Chip!”

“Okay, Battle Chip, Cannon, Slot in!” Joan takes out her PET and slots in said Battle Chip. Delia uses her newly acquired weapon and fires at the Penumbra, but it deals a little bit of damage. “It didn’t do enough?”

“I’ll take care of it!” Mira interjected. Natsu glows pink and Mira fires a pink laser, vanquishing the remaining Penumbra.

“Amazing job, Mira!” Rideman praised. “That was one of Natsu’s moves, the Pink Sun Laser?”

“Correct,” Mira confirmed.

“Excellent job, everyone!” Dr. Collier praised, “You have killed all of the Penumbras. Why don’t we all take a break? For the operator to return back to our physical, real world just touch your emblem and they will come back.”

The Navis did as they were instructed and they instantly returned to their PETs. The operators were back in their own realm.

“Oh, wow! I’m solid again, whew!” Spectra commented. “That was a harrowing experience.”

- Laboratory Room – Dr. Cerys’s Workplace -

Everyone returned to Dr. Cerys’s Lab after testing the IPX System, Draga asked her aunt about Netto’s request to develop a system or device that allows an operator to send battle chip data to two or more NetNavis at once. “Hmm? You want me to create a special program or a special gadget that shares battle chip data between multiple Navis?” Dr. Cerys comprehended, “It is a pretty neat idea, a nifty concept, but it is pretty challenging to create one. Not to mention it is a pretty small niche. An Operator must be skilled enough to operate two Navis at once. It’s just not possible unless we have an operator that does operate multiple Navis pretty proficiently.”

“Is that so…” Netto commented, “I mean I have operated two Navis before albeit sending battle chips at the same time was very challenging.”

“If you insist in this project that I need time to draw some concepts then create a few prototypes to test it,” Dr. Cerys informed. “Although it may not be ready by the time your journey begins.”

“I can help speed the development of that device,” Netto offered. “I’ll draw up the concepts and the testing of the device. We might be able to get a working prototype before the trip starts.”

“Really? You can create a device in a few days?” Dr. Cerys asked.

“It wasn’t that hard when I made a Wireless Plug Device*!” Netto boasted. “I mean I have been making some inventions on the side.”

“Thank you, Netto. Your cooperation is appreciated,” Dr. Cerys thanked. “I’ll call you when it is time to work on your idea for the multiple Navi chip data transfer device. Oh, I almost forgot, Draga can you come here for a minute?” The winged brunette with magenta highlights comes over to the female scientist with curiosity and confusion etched on her face.” Draga, I understand that when you were younger. you wanted a custom NetNavi. It wasn’t easy and it took a lot of time to create her, but she is finally ready. Draga, this is your new NetNavi, Aithusa.”

“Aithusa?” Draga repeated. She couldn’t believe it; she had her very own NetNavi. Her aunt gives her a white PET and she turns it on with a mixture of curiosity and excitement. A hologram of her new Navi, Aithusa appears.

She was mostly white with a metallic grey bodysuit though some parts of her design had red and blue mixed in. Her design seems like a mixture of a bat and the Magma Dragon* Virus. Her helmet and wings had horns attached, and a tail was seen at the back of her skirt. The overall appearance of her design gives Netto the impression that she was based on a dragon-themed knight.

“Hello, Draga. I’m Aithusa, your new NetNavi!” Aithusa greeted, “My creator, Dr. Cerys told me a lot about you.”

“This is amazing, I finally got my own NetNavi!” Draga exalted, “Thank you, Auntie. I’ll treasure her forever!”

Everyone was amazed and curious by her newly acquired Navi, especially the Navis.

“Hello, Aithusa, I’m Avatar EXE, Netto’s NetNavi,” Avatar greeted.

“I’m Mira, Natsu’s NetNavi!” Mira added. “Nice to meet you!”

“I’m Radioman. Aeon’s NetNavi, nice to meet ya Aithusa!” Radioman introduced.

“Greetings, I’m Amaranth but you can call me Amar,” Amar greeted. “I am Isla Carina’s NetNavi.”

“I’m Delia! Joan’s NetNavi,” Delia beamed. “I hope we become friends, Aithusa.”

“The name’s Reina!” Reina introduced, “My Operator is Spectra.”

“Crystalman, I’m Savannah’s NetNavi,” Crystalman greeted. “I hope we get along.”

Rideman tips off his hat and introduces himself. “Howdy, Aithusa. The name is Rideman. Nice to meet you.”

“Oh, wow, everyone is so nice and friendly!” Aithusa smiled. “I know especially you, Avatar! You’re the first ever Navi created by Goddess Chaos!”

Everyone was taken aback by the huge revelation dropped by the white Navi.

“Sorry about the info slip, Avatar,” Dr. Cerys apologized.

“Wait, Avatar is a Navi created by a Goddess, not Dr. Cerys?” Savannah grasped.

“This is the first time, I’ve heard of it!” Crystalman cried.

“Sorry about that Savannah,” Aeon apologized. “We had to wait until Avatar was ready to reveal this important info to you and Crystalman.”

“It’s fine,” Avatar assured. “I don’t think Aithusa is being malicious. She probably doesn’t understand that some information should stay confidential for safety reasons.”

“I see, so if this information about being created by a God was leaked to the wrong people then you could be in danger?” Aithusa grasped.

“Yes, Aithusa. So, please keep this secret until I’m ready to reveal it to the public,” Avatar pleaded. “I don’t want those bad people to experiment on me.”

“Okay! Your secret is safe with me,” Aithusa beamed.

“She seems so innocent…” Angel commented.

“Well, that’s because she’s recently been activated,” Dr. Cerys explained. “Once she gains more experience by external factors like Net Battling, Virus Busting, and interacting with other Navis, her mentality will slowly mature.”

“You mean her mental state will change if she’s put into different situations?” Netto asked.

“Yes, if you put it like that,” Dr. Cerys answered.

“That is concerning,” Avatar said worriedly. “She could be taken advantage of due to her naivety.”

“But I want to bring her with me…” Draga admitted, “I don’t want to leave her behind when we go on our journey.”

“If that’s the case then we have to train her right away,” Netto suggested. “Now it does take a while for a Navi to be a competent battler, but maybe she’ll be a natural. When Avatar did her first Net Battle, she was really good. Maybe Aithusa could be as well.”

“We’ll help, too!” Isla offered. “Aeon and I are great Net Battlers and we’ll be happy to give you some good tips in a Net Battle!”

“Yeah, we picked up a lot of neat tricks as seasoned Net Battlers,” Aeon added.

“Good idea,” Draga agreed. “Let’s start Aithusa’s training right away!”

“Seems like fun!” Aithusa beamed.

Chapter Text

Draga was excited to Net Battle with her NetNavi; Netto understands that feeling clearly. He went through the same experience as hers, waiting endlessly for his father to give him a custom Navi, and finally got one in the form of Rockman. He felt cathartic every time he beat Dekao and Gutsman.

After everyone finished testing the IPX System, Aeon, Isla, and Savannah agreed to help Drag with training Aithusa at the Breeze Orchid Arcade. On the way there, Aithusa was taken in the sights of the East Area. “Oh, wow is this what a city looks like?”

“Actually, it is quite small compared to a real city,” Draga corrected. “The nearest one is a two hour bus ride away from the nearest city, Avril Denka. I’ll take you some time before our journey starts.”

“That sounds like fun!” Aithusa beamed. “I can’t wait to see it!”

Everyone smiles at the white Navi’s innocent enthusiasm as they enter Strelitzia Mall.

- Breeze Orchid Arcade -

Once they entered the familiar colorful arcade, Isla, Aeon, and Savannah were already waiting for them at the Net Battle Arcade Machine.

“Hey, Draga, ready to begin Aithusa’s training?” Isla beamed.

“Yup, all I need is an opponent to battle against,” Draga requested.

“How about me?” Radioman offered.

“Nonsense, I’ll gladly battle you, Aithusa!” Amar interjected.

“Um, well…” Aithusa hesitated.

“I don’t think that’s a good idea,” Draga cautioned. “I just got her and she may not handle the sheer power of Amar and Radioman. They are seasoned battlers and I’m afraid she might get deleted.”

“Hey, we’re not going to accidently delete her!” Radioman argued, “A Net Battle is like a sparing match. If the Navi gets badly damaged then they automatically get plugged out to avoid deletion.”

“If you are worried about getting your Navi getting deleted by an opponent, why don’t we try Virus Busting first?” Amar suggested, “This will be her first time and it will be a great opportunity to see what moves she has.”

“I have deleted viruses before when I was being tested by Dr. Cerys,” Aithusa clarified.

“But this is different, you’ll be going against a Virus Gauntlet,” Amar articulated. “Where you to delete viruses in every round.”

“Sounds fun!” Aithusa beamed.

“Avatar you should join, too!” Netto suggested. “You might learn something when you go against her?”

“You mean study her battle pattern?” Avatar asked. “I guess this could be a good opportunity.”

“I shall come as well,” Crystalman interjected. “I am also curious about Aithusa’s battle capabilities.”

“Come on, Aithusa, let’s begin your training,” Draga asserted. “Plug-in, Aithusa, Transmission!”

“Plug-in Avatar!”

“Amar!”

“Radioman!”

“Crystalman!”

“TRANSMISSION!”

All the other operators plugged their Navis into the Net Battle Machine after Aithusa.

- BOA Net Battle Arcade Network -

Once all the Navis were inside the machine, Aithusa was given a lesson on the Virus Gauntlet.

“Alright, Aithusa, are you ready for your first Virus Gauntlet?” Radioman beamed, “As Amar said, a Virus Gauntlet allows you to delete viruses every round. The strength of the viruses and how many rounds you go through depends on the settings.”

“Seems pretty challenging, so how many rounds am I doing?” Aithusa asked.

“Not too many, mainly three,” Radioman informed.

- Breeze Orchid Arcade -

“Okay, by adjusting the strength of the viruses plus setting the number of rounds to three,” Netto mused. “Done, all set!”

“You seem to know how to modify the machine settings very well, Netto,” Draga observed.

“I used to Net Battle a lot with my friends when I was operating Rockman,” Netto explained. “I’m very used to how to adjust the machine’s settings.”

“By the way, I heard from your Nikkōkion Journey that you ran into someone who was very insistent on joining our team?” Savannah asked.

“His name is Haru Hikawa,” Netto explained. “It’s a very complicated case, but he is an alternate descendent of one of my friends, Tohru Hikawa. Apparently, his family is the last one as all of my other friends’ family clans have died out including mine in this world.”

“Really, that was very interesting…” Savannah commented, “But it is sad that only one of your friends’ family clan is alive in our world and time.”

“No, I’m glad that there is at least one lineage of my friends that is still leaving,” Netto assured. “Although, Laika and Dingo didn’t give me their surnames so I’m not sure if their family clans are alive in the era of this Universe.”

“So about Haru, how did your conversation with him go?” Savannah asked.

“Well, we rejected his offer obviously since our team members are already picked,” Isla replied. “Though Stacy did give him a harsh lesson that ruined his self-esteem.”

“Ouch, that was pretty harsh,” Savannah commented.

“Avatar, the Gauntlet Settings have been set!” Netto informed. “Here, Draga-chan, this is a Starting Folder. It has 30 Battle Chips already loaded in, so you can use it in the Gauntlet.” 

“Thank you, Netto. Alright, Aithusa, let’s go! Battle Operation, Set!”

- BOA Net Battle Arcade Network -

“In!” Aithusa enthusiastically finished.

Gauntlet Start!

Round 1 – Swordy and Mettools

One normal Swordy Virus and two Mettools appear in front of the white Navi.

“Okay, Aithusa, use your default weapons!” Draga instructed.

“Dragon Flame!” Aithusa shoots out a breath of fire that instantly deletes the Swordy but the Mettools are safe due to hiding under their helmets. “Tail Stab!” The white Navi stabs one of the Mettools using the sharp tip of her tail. “Flame Circle!” Aithusa creates a circle of flames from her hands. It circles around the remaining Mettool and was instantly deleted.

Round 2 – Garū * and Curze *

After the three viruses were deleted, a new batch was instantly dispatched. Next were two Garūs and one Curze. 

“Oh, a Curze Virus. I heard those things are tough…” Amar observed, “And it is only the second round. Could she handle it?”

“Of course,” Avatar answered with no hesitation.

“All right, time to use the Starter Folder.” Draga said, “Battle Chip, Sword! Slot-in!”

Aithusa’s right arm morphs into a blue sword and quickly slashes into the two Garūs. The last one was the Curze. And it was ready to tumble down and crack some panels.

“Okay, Battle Chip, Fumikomizan*! Slot-in!”

Aithusa quickly steps in front of the Curze Virus and deletes it in one go.

“Great job, Aithusa,” Draga praised.

“Not yet, because you haven’t cleared the final round,” Crystalman reminded.

Final Round – Ghost * and Dream Bit *

For the final round of the gauntlet were two Ghost and one Dream Bit Virus.

“I’m a bit nervous, what are the weaknesses of the Ghost and Dream Bit Viruses?” Draga asked.

“Ghost Viruses can teleport if the Navi is on the same path as it. It will attack and lick the Navi to regain health. However, you can counterattack with chips like Fumikomizan.” Netto advised, “Dream Bit Viruses have their own Aura but they can be blown away with Wind-Type Battle Chips making them easy to deal with. Especially the light grey ones.”

“Okay, then Battle Chips, Fujin Racket, Double Fumikomizan, Slot in!” Draga called.

Aithusa uses the Fujin Racket first to blow away the Dream Bit’s Aura then slashes both of the Ghost Viruses with her Fumikomizan Chips. The final one was the Dream Bit.

“Battle Chip, Fire Blade! Slot-in!” Draga announced.

Aithusa deletes the final virus and everyone cheers at her success.

Gauntlet Cleared!

“That was amazing, Aithusa!” Draga praised, “You deleted all the viruses without taking damage.”

“It was nothing…” Aithusa blushed.

“Alright, Aithusa, since you completed your first Gauntlet very well, why not try your hands in a Net Battle against another Net Navi,” Radioman suggested.

“Well, who’s going to spar against Aithusa?” Amar asked. “Radioman and I are out of the question since Draga discouraged it.”

“What about me and Avatar?” Netto asked, “I want to fight against Draga-chan and Aithusa!”

“I don’t think so,” Draga disagreed. “Netto, your skills are up to par with Isla’s. I’m afraid that you could curb-stomp us. I want an opponent that is at least the same skill level as us. We are still beginners after all.”

“I vote for Savannah and Crystalman!” Aeon offered, “They’re at the same level as you.”

“Hey, Aeon!” Savannah protested, “I did not agree to this!”

“I’m serious, sis!” Aeon argued, “When was the last time you Net Battle?”

“I think last week?” Savannah recollected.

“Last week, how often did you Net Battle then?”

“About once…”

“See, you don’t Net Battle as much as me!”

“So, I’m not as interested in Net Battling as I prefer collecting crystals and minerals!” Savannah argued, “Crystalman helped a lot in sorting out the online dealings.”

“And that makes you the perfect candidate for Draga and Aithusa’s Net Battle!” Aeon refuted. “Come on, it’ll be a good lesson for both you and Crystalman.”

“Aeon, I swear to…” Savannah grumbled. She composes herself and sighs. “All right,” she acquiesced, “I guess one Net Battle won’t hurt. Draga are you and your Navi ready to battle?”

“Are you sure, Savannah?” Draga asked, “I don’t want to impose.”

“It’s fine, Draga,” Savannah assured. “Let’s just have a friendly Net Battle between friends. Crystalman take your position.”

“Understood!” Crystalman acknowledged.

Aithusa and Crystalman take their positions; Aithusa at the left and Crystalman at the right. Once they were in position, it was time to fight. Avatar, Amar, and Radioman were on the sidelines, watching the battle was about to unfold.

“Crystalman and I will not hold back.”

“Neither would Aithusa and I,” Draga added. “Battle Operation! Set!”

“In!” Aithusa finished.

Crystalman was the first to move. “Diamond Scatter!” Small diamond shards of different colors appear and start raining down at the white Navi.

Aithusa took some damage but Draga retaliated. “Recovery 20, Fumikomizan, Slot-in!”

The white Navi’s wounds were healed and she used her newly acquired Sword to injure Crystalman.

“Battle Chip, Area Steal, Aqua Blade! Slot-in!” Savannah countered.

Crystalman warps away and counters with an attack of his and slashes across Aithusa’s chest just above the emblem area. The dragon knight Navi flinched and was in pain.

“What just happened?” Draga pondered. She looks over her Navi’s stats and notices that Aithusa was a Fire Type, so water attacks do more damage to her. “Okay, she’s a fire type, so I should counterattack. Battle Chip, Flame Sword*! Slot-in!”

Aithusa’s right arm transformed again into a blade encased with fire. She quickly attacks and slashes against Crystalman’s chest. He flinched from the pain.

“Now, Battle Chip, Cannon! Slot-in!” Draga declared. “End it!”

Aithusa’s arm transformed into a green cannon and fired.

“Battle Chip, Stone Cube*, Slot-in!” Savannah countered. A giant stone cube appeared in front of Crystalman and blocked the attack. “I’m not done yet! Battle Chip! Wide Shot, Slot-in!” Crystalman steps on top of the stone cube and fires.

“Battle Chip! Area Steal, Heat Shot!” Draga countered. Aithusa warped away and fired a huge fireball at Crystalman. To Savannah’s surprise, Crystalman was instantly plugged out.

“I can’t believe it…” Savannah replied. “To think I was taken off guard.”

“Phew, I can’t believe I won,” Draga thought out loud.

“I’m impressed,” Savannah approved. “I didn’t think you would have the spirit of a Net Battler within you, Draga. I’m looking forward to our next Net Battle.”

“Is Crystalman, okay?”

“He’s fine,” Savannah assured. “Nothing a few Recovery Chips will do.”

“Hey, Draga! Let me Net Battle, too!” Netto insisted, “Since you beat Savannah, I want to see how much you fare again me and Ava!”

“Such an eager Net Battler…” Isla commented.

Chapter Text

Angel was washing the dishes when she heard the sound of thunder. She glances out the window and sees the sky filling with grey clouds. “I hope it doesn’t rain; I have plans with Felica today. Are they going to be canceled?” After finishing her chores and wiping down the kitchen counter, she goes to the living where Netto and Draga are watching the weather channel. Avatar and Aithusa were sitting on the shoulders of their respective operators.

“Oh, Angel, are you done washing the dishes?” Draga asked.

“Yeah, you guys watching the weather report?”

The booming sound of thunder surprises the group. “Whoa! That sound was really loud!” Netto commented, “You think it’s very close by?”

“I think so, is it going to rain?” Draga added.

“Let’s see, the broadcast predicts the chance of rain is about 50 – 80% today,” Aithusa replied. Her gaze never left the television screen.

Angel silently heads for the diner room and stares silently at the grey clouds floating by. She ponders on what it would be like to soar through the sky and go through the light shrouds of vapor. When she was younger, she had a very vivid dream that she was soaring through the air, even though it wasn’t real that dream changed her life. It was one of the many factors that got her to pursue her pilot career. The silence was interrupted by an incoming call from Draga’s PET.

Bring! Bring! “Draga, a phone call from Felica,” Aithusa informed. Draga answers the call.

“Hello? Felica? Yes, Angel is here, just in the dining room.” Draga gets up from the couch and goes to the dining room where Angel is “Angel, it’s Felica. She wants to talk to you!”

“I’ll turn on the speaker so you can hear Felica’s voice clearly,” Aithusa informed.

“HEY, ANGEL! I HAVE GREAT NEWS, COME TO UNCLE RICK’S SHOP, RIGHT AWAY!”

“Aithusa, you cranked the volume up too loud!” Draga cried.

“My ears…” Netto bemoaned.

“Oh, sorry…” Aithusa apologized. The draconic white Navi adjusts the volume to make sure the people within earshot do not temporarily lose their hearing.

“Was my voice too loud?” Felica asked.

“We’re fine, Aithusa accidently set the volume of the PET to max,” Draga explained.

“Oh, good! Whew, anyway I got something to show Angel,” Felica announced.

“What is it? A new weapon or something?” Angel guessed.

“It’s a surprise!” Felica beamed, “Just come to the shop.”

“But it’s going to rain at any minute…” Angel argued, “Are you sure this is the right time to visit? I don’t want to arrive at your uncle’s shop soaking wet.”

“Surely you have your umbrella with you,” Felica suggested. “Where did you stash it?”

“It’s in my closet,” Angel answered.

“Okay! Bring your umbrella and I’ll be waiting in my room!” Felica then hangs up the call.

“I wonder what Felica wants to show Angel?” Netto pondered.

“You know, you don’t have to go right away, Angel,” Avatar pointed out. “You could just wait until after the rainstorm stops.”

“Sorry, but it is best if I go right now,” Angel disagreed. “If I wait then the streets could get wet and muddy. This is the better choice.” She already retrieved her umbrella from her bedroom closet and headed out the door.

“Stay safe, Angel!” Draga called.

“And tell us Felica’s surprise later!” Netto added.

Creak! Slam! After exiting the house, she puts on her hood and opens up her umbrella. The blonde girl was curious to see how bad the rain was and extended her hand, it was just a slight drizzle. She withdraws it and silently strolls to Rick Van’s weapon shop.

- East Area [Warrior Wares Shop] -

Angel was fortunate enough to enter the weapons shop without being soaking wet.

“Oh, Angel! Felica was waiting for you upstairs,” Rick informed. He points to a staircase that leads to the upper level of the shop.

Angel thanks the owner and puts her wet umbrella into the designated, umbrella dry rack before ascending upstairs. She’s been to the second floor so many times that she memorized the layout. Her friend’s room was down the hall and to the left. She knocks on a door with Felica’s name on it. She taps lightly until she hears Felica’s voice from the other side.

“Angel is that you? You can come in!” Felica announced.

- Felica’s Room -

Angel instantly recognizes the red walls, white ceiling, and natural wooding floor. Felica’s bed had garnet red sheets and white pillows and was uniquely installed against the wall with drawers below and cabinets above. Lights and bookshelves were installed on both sides of the bed. A ladder is stationed to the right of the bed where Felica can easily access the upper cupboards. Off to the side was her white and red desk with a desktop computer and keyboard and a small collection of her books. But what caught her attention was a Navi inside the console.

“Felica, did you call me to show me your Navi?”

“Yes, technically, Uncle Rick is the one who gave the Navi to me,” Felica clarified. “A friend of his is a well-known NetNavi Designer. They have been recently getting popular, you can earn a lot if you pursue that path. Anyway, one of the staff members of the local hospitals commissioned him to create a Navi that would easily befriend sick children that being treated in a newly added ward. However, the staff were not impressed with the first ‘attempt’ and asked my uncle’s friend to create a new one from scratch.”

Angel takes a closer look at the Navi on screen. Blue helmet with cyan trim that resembles a cap with faded green protrusions that vaguely mimic hair tied into a ponytail. An interesting detail was the Navi’s eyes. One was a regular pear-green pupil while the other was a robotic eye. The bodysuit was black, but the face was a fair peach. The red, white, and cyan armor vaguely resembles a doctor’s coat with the built-in, retractable stethoscope and a heart rate monitor on the stomach area. White and red gloves, lime green, plus and minus symbols on the upper thighs, and white, cyan, and blue knee-length boots completed the look. The Navi’s insignia resembles the letter F on a red background with a yellow border ring.

“Felica, you already put your emblem on this Navi?” Angel asked.

“Yup, the Navi’s already mine,” Felica beamed. “By the way, the Navi’s name is Aala!”

“Hello, Angel,” Aala greeted. “I was created by Sullivan Imogen as a commission to the Galen Hospital staff in order to assist and ease child patients during their treatment. The staff were unsatisfied by my creation and he had to create another one from complete scratch to fit their standards. I was given to Rick Van then Felica. Even though I was created by another, Felica is my first official operator.” Angel felt sympathetic for Aala, to be discarded when the people want to meet you only to get rejected when you don’t meet their standards. Then to be given away like an unwanted pet. However, there was a silver lining, Aala has a caring operator in the form of her friend, Felica.

“Isn’t Aala so cool?!” Felica gushed, “I can’t wait to show them to the others!”

“Them?” Angel asked confused.

“Well, Aala is not a boy nor a girl, so the ‘them’ pronoun is most suitable for this Navi.” Felica explained, “I know it is a bit confusing but it fits the Navi.”

“Are you okay being addressed with the term, Aala?”

“Of course,” Aala beamed. “I don’t mind.”

“I’m so excited to introduce you to everyone, Aala,” Felica exulted. “Oh, that reminds me, Angel. Are you getting a Navi, too? Netto has Avatar and Draga recently got Aithusa, so are you getting one as well? Aala would be great friends with your new Internet Navigator.”

“Well, no…” Angel replied.

“Huh, why not?” Is it because they’re expensive?” Felica asked.

“There are many factors on why Angel chooses not to get a Navi,” Aala reasoned. “The price part is pretty likely since the staff at Galen Hospital did pay a lot of money to commission a specialist to create me.”

“How about asking Dr. Cerys to create one for you?” Felica suggested, “You’re close friends with Draga, so I’m sure she’ll make one for you.”

“No, I don’t want to bother her,” Angel declined. “I don’t want to request a custom Navi that will eat up most of her time at work. She is working on an experimental device with Netto to send battle chip data to two or more Navis at once. I don’t want to increase her workload. I know I shouldn’t compare a Navi to a regular pet like a dog or cat but NetNavis are programmed to have sentience regardless of how deep it is. Now I don’t know the deeper reason behind it, maybe they were implemented to assess the situation when it comes to combat or to have a deeper bond with their operator. Regardless, it’s hard for me to just get one when I know the truth.”

“What truth?” Felica asked.

“Okay, this may be hard to believe but when we went to Mira, we discovered something important.” Angel answered, “We found out that in the far distant past, there was a fourth being called Cyanea that was created by Draco and Purity. However, she passed away once the completion of the four dimensions was complete. They scattered her remains across the four dimensions. However, when we went to visit Mira and the Scyphozoan Blue Court, we found something interesting. Netto accidently opened an ancient network and we also find out that Cyanea could be the main ancestor of the NetNavi Race.”

“That’s a pretty big revelation,” Felica commented.

“I don’t know what to say…” Aala added.

“I know that is a pretty complicated thing to fully process but it’s the truth,” Angel said. She looks out the window, pondering about other things.

- North Area [TDF District (Dr. Cerys’s Lab)] -

One an empty table, Netto was sketching up a few concepts of a theoretical Battle Chip Data Transfer Device. The overall design was similar to the Battle Chip Holder bracelet he used to carry when Nebula was still active. Once he was done, he gives the drafts to Dr. Cerys to look over to see if there were any ways to improve it. “The concepts look good although I need Dr. Collier’s help to create some prototypes.”

“So, when will they be done?” Netto asked, “The prototypes?”

“Give us a few days,” Dr. Cerys replied. “I’ll call you to test them out.” As she leaves with the concept drafts, Avatar decides to banter with Netto.

“Hey, Netto? Do you have time to talk?”

“Yeah, what do you want to talk about?”

“I was asking about your time in Alin Harmony,” Avatar inquired. “What was the network like when you and the other operators were transported there during the IPX System testing phases?”

“Eh, well it is hard to put into words but it was similar to when we venture inside the Scyphozoan Blue Court Network, empty yet vast,” Netto explained. “The sky was a lime green with clouds going by and data lines that seemed to connect and scatter. The ground was a deep blue and was so clear that you can see your own reflection and the sky above.”

Netto clearly recalls how liminal but serene the whole area was. He felt at peace when he entered the area. It was like he was in a very vivid and colorful dream. During his time there, he could past the time talking to the other operators about stuff.

“So, it was just a vast empty world with clouds, reflections, and data lines going in any direction?” Avatar guessed.

“Pretty much, the place was colorful and peaceful. It feels like you spend forever in there,” Netto commented. “However, there wasn’t anything to occupy ourselves with. We probably get stir-crazy from pure boredom if there wasn’t anything to pass the time.”

“Interesting…”

Netto looks out the window and sees the grey clouds tumultuously drop millions of tiny beads of water. A stark contrast to the digital, calm clouds of the Alin Harmony Network. He wonders if there was a way to manipulate the server so it would be easier for people to pass the time.

- Felica’s Room -

Angel looks out of her friend’s room as the droplets of water start to get heavier and faster in frequency. “Looks like we won’t be going outside for a while.”

“Hey, Angel. Look, there’s an advertisement for an airshow in Avril Denka City!” Felica noted. Angel looks over her friend’s shoulder and sees an online ad for said airshow.

“I think you should look more closely,” Aala observed. “It seems that this month’s airshow was canceled by heavy rain.”

“Ah, bummer,” Felica replied. “Angel, you wanted to see the airshow right? I’m sorry that I wasn’t able to get tickets.”

“Don’t worry too much about it,” Angel assured. “Besides even if it did, the show would still be canceled due to bad weather.”

“How about watching some airplane videos to pass the time?” Felica suggested.

“Sure,” Angel agreed.

“Aala, could you find some airplane videos?” Felica requested.

The white Navi complied and searched the web for any airplane videos that the girls would enjoy. Once they found something that the girls would like, they played it and everyone started watching an hour-long video detailing the history of airplanes and how they changed over the past few thousand years within the industry. During the halfway point, Aala was curious about their new operator. They don’t know much about Felica’s life, why was she living with her uncle and not her parents? How did she first meet her friends, especially Angel?

“Hey, Felica? Can I ask you a few questions?” Aala piqued up.

“What is it, Aala?”

“Well, I want to ask about your past, yours and Angel’s,” Aala replied,

“Sure, okay!” Felica beamed, “Ask away!”

Aala was taken aback by their operator’s full cooperation but put forth their questions. “First, we’ll start with your living conditions. Why are you living with your uncle and not your parents? How did you meet Angel?”

“Oh, why am I living with uncle instead of mom and dad? You see, my parents are too busy with their jobs since they deal with the development of weaponry and Penumbra studies.” Felica replied, “I was sent to live here for my own safety. I was upset that I wasn’t living with them at the time but with their line of work, they were afraid of me contacting Void Syndrome. So that’s why I’m currently living in Beach Flora Town. A few weeks during my time here, I met Angel. She was also a new resident that moved around the same time; she’s actually from a different country.”

“Really, which country is she from?”

“I’m from the Caelus, it is known for their mountains, rich culture, and delicious chocolate,” Angel replied. “The reason I moved here is because of a student transfer program. Dr. Cerys allowed me to stay at her place to finish my studies.”

“Your parents are okay with that?” Aala asked.

“Of course, I do talk to my parents over the phone during every other weekend, Dr. Cerys is pretty close with them. That’s why I’m living with her and Draga.”

“Hey, I got an idea,” Angel noted. “Why don’t we head to Strelitzia Mall once the rain stops?”

“That’s a great idea!” Felica agreed. “I do need to buy a new wardrobe for the journey ahead anyway.”

- East Area [Strelitzia Mall (Aglaia)] -

Once the rain stopped pouring the two girls went to the mall to go clothes shopping, they went to Aglaia. It was one of the small local stores that was popular with both girls and women for their fashionable and affordable clothing. They have great online reviews for having well-threaded clothing. The interior of the store was pink and white with mannequins wearing summer-themed clothing such as tank tops, shorts, mini-skirts, and swimming suits. Aala was in awe at how many options of clothes there were. Is this what humans like to do during their free time? Purchase clothes to add to their inventory? “There seems to be a lot of options in terms of clothing…” Aala observed, “I didn’t know this was one of the many past times for humans to indulge in.” 

“That is true, clothes shopping is sort of a hobby to some people,” Angel replied. “However, girls enjoy it far more than boys. Sure, some boys do enjoy fashion but the majority are girls.”

“Really, what makes fashion more popular to girls than boys?” Aala inquired.

“In the past, fashion between boys and girls was vastly different,” Briana replied. “There was even a controversy in terms of quality when it comes to male and female clothing. However, the public would not talk about this issue as the girls would always buy new clothes due to changing trends regardless of quality. However, after humanity experienced two Umbra Incidents, the fashion industry drastically changed. Today there are many good quality, clothing options for both boys and girls.”

“Oh, Briana…” Angel commented, “I didn’t know you were shopping here today.”

“Hello, Angel and Felica. I see that Felica has a new NetNavi,” Briana greeted. “Especially one that is interesting in fashion.”

“This is Aala,” Felica introduced. “Aala was given to me by my uncle. He got them from his friend as a failed attempt for a commission by the Galen Hospital staff.”

“Odd, why would a hospital commission your uncle’s friend to create a NetNavi for their establishment?”

“The Navi would be a mascot of sorts to the newly built ward at Galen Hospital. Something about helping ease the children’s anxiety when they are being treated,” Felica explained. “The staff was not happy with Aala and wanted by uncle’s friend to create another Navi from scratch that fits their standards.”  

“Galen Hospital, for the newly built Niramaya Ward,” Briana remembered. “To think the staff commissioned your uncle’s friend to create Navi for that purpose.”

“I know but I think the deal was kept a secret, hush-hush as they say,” Felica replied. “But I’m glad I got a custom Navi out of it.”

“Yeah, but aren’t NetNavis especially custom ones, sentient beings?” Angel reminded, “I mean they do have feelings…even if they are stimulated.” Briana was confused, what was the blonde girl trying to say about NetNavis as a whole? “Oh, right, Briana you weren’t there when Netto went on his trip to Mira. Well, have I got an interesting story to tell you, Felica, and Aala. But let’s take this somewhere more private, don’t want to attract too much attention.”

- Frida Café -

The three girls were sitting together at a café that was at the farther reaches of the mall. A perfect place to discuss private matters away from prying eyes. The interior was a mixture of neutral pinks, browns, and whites. The combination of colors gives the café a very cozy vibe. After the girls retrieved their orders, it was time for Angel to lay down her discoveries at Mira. More specifically what happened when they visited the Scyphozoan Blue Court.

“Okay, girls this is going to be a huge bombshell but I was accompanying Netto on his trip to Mira to see the Scyphozoan Blue Court,” Angel revealed. “During our time there, Netto accidently unlocked an ancient network that dates back to the first Umbra Incident.”

“No way!” Briana gasped.

“A network that is older than our current one?” Felica asked.

“What did this Netto person find there?” Aala asked.

“Apparently, Netto found that this ancient network is connected to a wider space called the Cyber Zone. That is an entirely new dimension that is divided into four subsections in which humans go to complete the Process of Discovery Trial.” Angel continued, “If an Umbra Incident were to ever occur in Dimension A, C, or D then the machine would activate the Alethea Process, and all surviving humans would be transported to obtain their powers to contain them. If they cannot complete it then they are stuck there.”

“That is pretty scary…” Briana commented. “If you don’t complete the trial then you don’t go home?”

“But Angel, what does this have to do with the origin of the NetNavis and their sentience?” Felica asked.

“I’m getting to that when Netto and Avatar entered the Blue Court and accessed the database. They discovered that there was the existence of a fourth God that was created by Draco and Purity. However, she was deceased before the four dimensions were near completion,” Angel replied. “And the Goddess’s name was Cyanea, the originator of the NetNavi race. They were created from her own remains.”

“Are you serious?!” Briana gasped, “Then the NetNavis that are recently created could evolve in a similar way to humans?”

“Does that mean that Aala could evolve to have real human emotions?” Felica asked. “Is that why you were hesitant to get one yourself?”

“Of course, a NetNavi is a long-term commitment,” Angel replied. “And since it is possible for NetNavis to obtain self-awareness, I need to make sure the Navi is properly taken care of.”

“Then does the public know about this recent development in NetNavi creation?”

“Not sure, but I heard from Sherrice that the scientific community is in a hot debate on whether or not to declare NetNavis as a new species,” Angel recalled, “Though it is difficult to declare them a new species since one of the requirements is to reproduce offspring. So far, they haven’t fulfilled that requirement.”

“Oh yeah, I remembered that tidbit from biology class,” Briana bemoaned.

“If NetNavis are truly sentient beings then I felt bad for Aala even more,” Felica sympathized.

“No, Felica, I’m happy,” Aala disagreed. “I have an operator that cares about me. If I was part of the Galen Hospital staff, I probably be treated as an employee, not a friend.”

“Aala, I’m glad you think of me as your operator and friend,” Felica beamed.

“And I’m glad to be your Navi,” Aala added.

- West Area [Cerys Residence] -

“Huh, you want to help to create a new NetNavi?” Netto asked. “I mean you already have one, Felica.”

Avatar and Aithusa were introducing themselves to Aala.

“Nice to meet you, Aala!” Aithusa beamed, “I’m Aithusa, Draga’s Navi. This is my friend, Avatar!”

“Hello, Aala…” Avatar added shyly.

“Nice to meet you both, Felica has talked about you two,” Aala informed. “Especially you, Avatar. You seem to be a very unique Navi compared to others.”

“Unique?” Avatar piqued. It was true, she was pretty different compared to other Navis, but she kept that secret to herself for safety reasons.

“Netto, weren’t you creating a new system in which you can send battle chip data to multiple Navis at once?” Draga remembered.

“Of course, that device is still in the development stages.” Netto informed, “Although, Felica-chan, you want another Navi?”

“Yeah, I want a battle partner for Aala!” Felica beamed, “Aala isn’t made for battle so maybe another one to compliment them would be nice. But what would a battle Navi look like?”

“Well, let me look at Aala,” Briana suggested. She takes a hard look at Aala. “You said that Aala isn’t a male or female? Right? Looks like Aala is androgynous.”

“Androgynous?” Felica asked, “I’ve heard of that term before, but I didn’t think that Aala fell into that category. Though using the ‘them’ pronoun was a dead giveaway.”

“There’s nothing wrong with a Navi being androgynous,” Netto assured. “NetNavis can be designed to be male or female. Though I did hear rumors that Navi was designed have to traits of both males and females, so a Navi being androgynous isn’t too far off.”

“Maybe we could create an androgynous female character?” Felica suggested.

“Uh, Felica, isn’t that redundant, an androgynous character isn’t supposed to be outright male nor female,” Netto interjected.

“Actually, androgynous falls under the androgyny category,” Briana corrected. “It is some sort of gender presentation that combines male and female traits but it had some negative stigma in the far past. Apparently, there are different types of androgyne, some are more masculine while others are more feminine. Sort of like a spectrum. Though getting through the subsets is very complex and difficult to explain.”

“Looking at Aala, they look more masculine,” Angel observed. “Are you more comfortable being addressed as a boy?”

“I don’t mind,” Aala responded.

“Okay, so we should design a Navi that compliments Aala,” Netto noted. “Since Aala is masculine then the new Navi should be more feminine.” As he starts sketching drafts, he ponders on what the main theme would be. “Hey, Felica-chan? Since your button has a blue heart maybe we should incorporate it into the Navi’s design.”

“Great idea, Netto!” Felica approved, “We could red and blue as the main colors. Since Aala has some red so will the new Navi!”

“Red and blue…” Netto pondered, “How about some oranges and purple to compliment it?”

“Oh, like a sunset beach, that’s a good color palette,” Briana approved. “I brought over some magazines that delve into the unisex fashion that give you more ideas on making a more gender-ambiguous character.” She showcases a few pages of androgynous fashion. Netto notes that all of the models were wearing unisex clothing like business suits, jeans, collar tee shirts, and shorts. He looked through the many samples and saw one that caught his eye.

“How about this one?” Netto suggested. He points to a model with short spiky hair, the clothing consists of a bra that showcases tattoos on the skin, a skirt with a belt and suspenders with lace that covers the legs, and black shoes.  “When designing a NetNavi, they are digital beings. For example, their hair is just clumps with no individual strands, and armor resembling fabric doesn’t wrinkle. Another interesting detail I found is that most female Navis have synthetic or plastic protrusions that mimic hair, unlike their male counterparts that resemble real hair. It’s something I noticed when looking through Papa’s notes on NetNavi design. Looking back, Rockman doesn’t have real hair either. When look at it from the back, it forms an X. It’s something I always notice when operating him.”

“What about my hair Netto?” Avatar asked. She pulls on her blue strand and shows it to Netto.

“Yours reminds me of a thin cord,” Netto commented. “Nothing bad about it, it makes you look unique. Just like Rockman’s hair!”

“Really, thanks Netto,” Avatar thanked.

After a few hours, the four managed to complete the design of the NetNavi. The helmet was divided into three colors, red, orange, and blue with purple swirls. The bodysuit was black but the face had a fair skin tone with bright red eyes. The armor was red and divided into two pieces, red chest armor, and a skirt that was held together by purple straps the resembled suspenders. Additional details were added such as a hint of blue on the chest armor and some golden heart and swirl patterns on the chest. Orange and blue gloves and boots with heart motifs on them. The final detail was the emblem which was embedded into the helmet and chest armor.

“It’s perfect, Netto!” Felica beamed. “I can’t wait to see them! Oh, wait that could be confusing since Aala is using that pronoun. I guess we could use female pronouns to distinguish both Navis.”

“I don’t mind,” Aala added. “I am kind of pumped to see my new partner come to life.”

“Then let’s take it to Dr. Cerys and construct her right away!”

“Oh, that reminds me, I have to get new clothes for the trip!” Felica recalled. “Come on girls, we have some shopping to do.”

After the girls finished their meals, they went back to Aglaia to find a new wardrobe for Felica. After a few hours, her new outfit was very similar to her old look but with a nurse or medic theme to match Aala’s. She wore a white nurse hat with Aala’s insignia on it. Her new red jacket was similar to professional scrub sweaters worn by nurses, new blue jean shorts with cuffs, and new red shoes. Once she puts on her cyan messenger bag with her blue heart button, she feels proud of her brand-new look.

“Wow, Felica, that nurse-themed look really fits you!” Angel commented.

“Yes, and the new outfit matches the theme with your new Navi, Aala!” Briana added.

“Thank you, guys!” Felica beamed. However, something nags at Felica.

“Is there something wrong, Felica?”

“It’s just I wish I had a Navi that had the same symbol as the button that Angel gave me…” Felica confessed, “This button was a gift from her.”

“Felica…” Angel commented, “I know that button means a lot to you, but you already have Aala. I’m not sure if Navis are comfortable in sharing one operator though… Think about Aala’s feelings, would they be comfortable with you operating another Navi?”

“I didn’t think about that…” Felica muttered.

“Hey, Felica, I don’t mind if you have another Navi.” Aala assured, “To be honest, I was designed to be a Navi to comfort children during their time of need. I wasn’t made for combat.”

“Hey, Aala don’t degrade yourself like that!” Angel protested. “I know you weren’t accepted due to your appearance but…”

“No, it’s fine,” Aala interjected. “I can still use Battle Chips, but my subpar stats wouldn’t catch up with combat-oriented Navis.”

Felica gets out her red Link PET and looks over Aala’s stats. “Aala is right, their stats are below average. Although their type is Stat which is pretty interesting.”

“I heard that Netto had a friend that had rare battle chips to circumvent her Navi’s subpar stats,” Angel recalled. “How about we ask him to give some of his rare battle chips to you?”

“I mean it is tempting but those are Netto’s, he earned them fair and square,” Felica argued. “Something about a gift for achieving a great feat or something. Doesn’t seem fair for Netto to just give it away to us.”

“So, what are your options, Felica?” Briana asked. “You have the option to train Aala to be competent in Net Battling and Virus Busting or get a new Navi that is built for combat.”

“How about a compromise?” Felica suggested, “I can train both Aala and my new Navi to be battle partners! Sure Aala may be weak but if they have a partner, then they’ll be a great support unit.”

“Just like you? You may not be good at combat, but you are a great support unit,” Angel realized.

“Then it’s settled, we’ll get Netto’s help to sketch out some concepts,” Briana declared. “I’ve heard that he has been getting better with drawing recently. He started making NetNavi designs.”

“It’s true, Netto has been learning how to draw people and other creatures,” Angel added. “Although, he seems too comfortable drawing humanoid creatures like humans and NetNavis designs.”

“So, we can ask for his help to create a new Navi Partner for Aala!” Felica beamed, “It will be a collaborative effort!”

- North Area [TDF District (Dr. Cerys’s Lab)] -

“Dr. Cerys!” Netto beamed, “There’s a breakthrough on the new chip data transfer device!”

“Really is that why, you bring your friends with you?” Dr. Cerys asked.

“I want a new NetNavi that is a partner to my existing one!” Felica replied.

“Oh, Felica, you have a Navi and you want another one?”

“Yeah, my uncle gave Aala to me,” Felica answered. “Here is the design for Aala’s partner.” She shows Dr. Cerys the completed drawing of her second Navi.

The female scientist adjusts her glasses as she takes a closer look at the design. “This can be easy to create. The design isn’t too complicated and well designed. Netto, did you create this?”

“Actually, it is a collaborative effort between Angel, Felica, Briana, and me,” Netto corrected.

“You know this could be the perfect opportunity to test the Battler Router?”

“Battle Router?”

“That’s the name Dr. Collier and I have decided on the multi-Navi battle chip transfer device,” Dr. Cerys explained. “Once we finish creating Felica’s second Navi then we’ll start testing on the Battler Router prototype. Felica have you decided on a name?”

“Uh, yeah, the Navi’s name is Cyndi,” Felica answered.

“All right, give me a few hours, and Cyndi will be done,” Dr. Cerys announced.

Just as the female scientist predicted, Felica’s second Navi was completed in a few hours. “All done, Felica. Your second Navi, Cyndi, is ready for operation.”

Felica happily holds a brand new blue Link PET with her heart button symbol and boots it up. She is greeted with Cyndi’s smile. “Hello, Felica. I’m Cyndi, nice to meet you!”

“Hi, Cyndi! I’m Aala’s first Navi.”

“Hmph! Just because you’re the first doesn’t mean you get to hog all of Felica’s attention,” Cyndi sassed.

“Um, she’s a bit rude…” Netto observed.

“Well, I made her personality to have a rash and hothead personality to reflect her combat prowess,” Dr. Cerys reasoned.

“That’s going to be difficult since if Cyndi does battle, she could accidently put Aala in danger,” Briana realized.

“Maybe we could practice Net Battling together?” Aala suggested, “We could experience Net Battling as a team.”

“Great idea,” Felica approved. “It would be a great opportunity for both Navis and the development of your new Battle Router device.”

“Then let’s get started,” Dr. Cerys smiled.

- Vaeda Net Battle Room -

“Whoa, this is?”

“This is the Vaeda Net Battle Room,” Dr. Cerys replied. “This is where we test the battle capabilities of countless newly constructed NetNavis. It is a very private room as this is a staff only room. You need permission from them to enter.”

“That explains a lot since this is my first time here,” Netto commented.

“Okay, Felica, plug your Navis into this machine, so we assess their battle capabilities,” Dr. Cerys instructed. “Then we’ll test out the Battle Router with their cooperation.”

“Plug in! Aala and Cyndi!” Felica declared. Two infrared lasers left her two Link PETs.

“Great, now that the Navis are inside the network, here is the Battle Router Device, Felica.” Dr. Cerys gives Felica a black band with a small device with four small antennae sticking out.

“This is the Battle Router?” Felica asked.

“Yes, connect both PETs to the router and it will register them,” Dr. Cerys instructed.

Felica puts on the Router device and connects it to both of her PETs. They were connected successfully.

“Here, some battle chips for you to use.” Dr. Cerys gives Felica at least thirty chips. Most were variants of the Cannon, Mini Bomb, and Sword Chips. “Now, Felica, this device is still in the testing phases. Now when you use the Battle Router, you can send battle chip data to both PETs at once. After you slot in a chip, the antenna will light up and send it to the PET that you’ve registered the router to. However, if you run into any type of delay or if your Navi feels weird, immediately report it to me at once.”

“Okay!” Felica acknowledged.

“All right, I’ll start the testing trials for your Navis to practice,” Dr. Cerys replied. She goes into the Net Battle Machine and inputs a few commands.

Round 1 – Mettool Raid

Netto and the others look at the screen and see a huge amount of Mettool viruses on screen. “Whoa, your Net Battle Machine can do Virus Raids?”

“Of course, though we rarely use this option,” Dr. Cerys answered.

- Sanvi Network -

Inside the network, both Aala and Cyndi were confronted with a whole army of Mettools.

“Whoa, that is a lot,” Aala observed.

“No problem, I need a Battle Chip to deal with this lot,” Cyndi boasted.

Felica had to fish through her rented chip folder to find the one she needed. “Battle Chip, Sword! Slot-in!”

The black device beeps and two of the four antennae begin to glow and beep. Both Aala and Cyndi receive the Sword chip data as their arms glow and morph into said weapon. An interesting tidbit is that the sword is on Aala’s right arm but on Cyndi’s left arm.

“Oh, wow, it works!” Aala observed. The white and red Navi charges forward and deletes one Mettool. However, Cyndi outperforms and eradicates at least 10 at once.

“Whoa, Cyndi is way more competent in battle then Aala,” Briana observed.

Aala was amazed that Cyndi was able to mow down an entire army with one sword. It was an understatement that Cyndi was a very well-built combat, Navi.

Round Clear!

- Vaeda Net Battle Room -

“The Battle Router is working tremendously well,” Dr. Cerys praised. “I did not see any delays or weird behavior patterns from the Navis at all.”

“Dr. Cerys, can you isolate which chip data you send a PET to?” Netto asked. “For example, I want to send a Cannon to Aala but not Cyndi. Is that possible?”

“Of course,” Dr. Cerys answered. “Felica if you implement this command then you can send battle chip data to only Aala.” Felica follows her instructions and sends a Wide Sword Battle Chip into the router. Only one of the antennae was glowing and beeping. In the Sanvi Network, Cyndi was surprised that Aala only received the weapon.

“Hey, Dr. Cerys, is it possible to send Program Advances over the Router?” Netto asked. “For example, if I created the Battle Chip combo for the Dream Sword* Program Advance, would multiple Navis receive it?”

“That’s a very good question, Netto. No, we haven’t tested that yet but I’m pretty sure the sheer power could overload the current prototype,” Dr. Cerys replied. “Program Advances do let out a lot of power and if an electronic device cannot handle the processor power then it could overload and be destroyed. It is just too risky to attempt it on this version. However, if we gather data on the power of the Program Advance then the newer versions will not be at risk of overload.”

“I could teach her!” Netto offered, “Felica needs the proper training to execute the correct timing in order to pull off the Program Advance. Avatar could also train Aala and Cyndi on how to correctly position themselves when using the Program Advance.”

“Great idea!” Felica approved, “I’m still a beginner Net Battler, so Netto’s guidance could greatly help me. He is very skilled compared to me.”

“Then let’s get started!”

For the past few hours, Netto and Avatar have trained Felica, Aala, and Cyndi on how to Net Battle and use the Program Advance. The grey Navi guides the two Navis on how to correctly position themselves when their operator executes the Program Advance. During their training, both Netto and Avatar note that the two Navis seem to struggle to fight together. The reason is Cyndi’s rash behavior. She would always put herself in danger when fighting off viruses by rushing into combat without any strategy. There was no real danger as she was designed to combat NetNavi, but she preferred to battle herself instead of cooperating with Aala and Felica. She can even delete viruses without Felica sending battle chips.

“Cyndi is being difficult,” Aala commented. “I don’t understand why they are not cooperating. We are supposed to be a team.”

“Maybe she’s trying to prove themselves?” Avatar guessed, “During the early days of being Netto’s Navi, I already knew that he operated another Navi named Rockman.  I guess the knowledge of knowing your operator already operating a Navi before you gives you a feeling of being inferior. Trying to constantly compare your capabilities to the previous Navi to point of obsession and wanting to prove that you are better in terms of skill and combat. It gives you a certain type of anxiety, knowing that you are not the first.”

“Is that what Cyndi’s thinking?” Aala pondered. Avatar’s words on her own experiences of being Netto’s second Navi give Aala a new perspective on Cyndi’s mindset. Maybe her slightly rude behavior could be a cover-up of their insecurities of competing with Aala in terms of being Felica’s ‘true’ Navi. But that was not true, Aala and Cyndi are supposed to be partners, not competitors. That is something they have to discuss with Cyndi in private.

- West Area [Cerys Residence (Outdoor Pool)] -

Once night has fallen, Felica and Briana ask Dr. Cerys, Angel, Draga, and Netto if they could sleep over at the Beach House. The night was still cloudy but the moon was still shown through the thinly vapor shrouds. Angel and Felica were still in their regular clothes while the rest were swimming in the pool in their swimming attire.

This was the perfect opportunity for Aala and Felica to confront Cyndi about her behavior. Angel was brought as a mediator since they trust her to calm the situation if things get too heated.

“Hey, Cyndi? Felica and I are worried that you are not being a team player about today’s training,” Aala confronted.

“Why does that concern you, I’m fine,” Cyndi denied.

“We’re just concerned for your well-being,” Felica asked. “You were being very reckless. What happens if you accidently put Aala into danger? You need to protect them from harm, he is weaker compared to you.”

“So, I’m not his babysitter, he can take care of themselves,” Cyndi scoffed.

“Cyndi, are you upset that you’re sharing with Aala?” Felica asked. “I’m not favoring Aala, I know both of your strengths is not equal, but I care about you two equally.”

Felica’s comforting words soften Cyndi. “Felica…Do you really mean it?”

“Of course!” Felica answered, “I know it’s not easy operating two Navis at once. But we have a device that allows us to better synchronize the battle chip transfer process.”

“Cyndi, Felica, and Aala do care about you,” Angel added. “They’re not treating you like a third wheel, you are part of their team.”

“All right, I’ll trust you three on this.”

Angel smiles knowing that the inner conflict has been resolved, she cannot wait to be eager for what the future brings. Maybe this conversation could sway her to having her own Navi someday, Aala and Cyndi would be great friends with Angel’s future Internet Navigator.

EXTRAS:

Angel

Felica - Old and New Attire

Aala EXE

Cyndi EXE

Briana Triana

Chapter Text

Ruby was inside a well-lit room carefully maneuvering her tool inside a medium-sized furnace that Red Elemental Matters powered up. Once satisfied with the shape, she slowly removed it from the burning furnace once the desired temperature was reached. However, as she was about to place it on the blowpipe, she was startled by Netto and Frost’s arrival.

“Ruby-chan! Can we hang out?!” Netto asked.

“Guys!” Ruby chastised. “Don’t interrupt me when I’m working. You almost made me drop the molten glass!”

“Ah, sorry, Ruby-chan…” Netto apologized.

“Are you making another glass sculpture?” Frost interjected.

“Yup, I just need my jacks and sheers to refine the shape,” Ruby replied. She starts blowing and the molten glass starts to expand. She quickly gets her jacks and inserts them into the glass. Ruby pulls on it and forms a hollow tube. She gets out her sheers and some pliers and starts to carve into the red, molten glass. Once satisfied with her piece, she quickly submerged it in cool water.

“That’s amazing, Ruby-chan! I didn’t know you could mold glass like that!” Netto praised, “You make it look so easy.”

“Well, I have been glass sculpting for a few years so it’s like muscle memory to me,” Ruby boasted. She looks back at the submerged glass piece and steam rising over it. “Oh, I think it’s done!” She quickly puts in onto another table and starts adding color. She chooses pink, green, white, and yellow. “All done! I call it the Blooming Vase!” A brightly colored vase with a base resembling a lotus flower that was about to open its petals.

“Wow!”

“Impressive, Ruby, you’ve been getting better,” Frost praised. “Why, it looks better than the swan piece that you gave to Netto on his birthday.”

“Oh, I’m so flattered. Anyway, what do you want to talk about?” Ruby takes out a nearby stool and sits on it. Ready to listen to any story that the boys want to tell her.

“There’s a new restaurant that recently opened in East Area,” Netto informed. “Apparently, they are serving traditional Itzayanian* food?”

“Itzayanian food? Now that’s gotten my attention!” Ruby beamed.

“Itzayana*? I never heard of that country…” Netto pondered.

“That’s the rebuilt country of Mexico but the locals still speak Spanish there,” Ruby replied. “I have some relatives that live there. So yeah, I like their food. It takes me back to my familiar roots. Have you looked at their menu?”

“I did and it was mostly spicy food,” Netto replied.

“Ugh…I hate spicy food…” Frost grumbled. “If I took one bite, my tongue might singe.”

“Oh, right, you hate spicy food,” Ruby replied. “But don’t worry, does this restaurant serve any cold food? If Frost wants to try it then there must be some options for him to try.”

“Says here they serve Cheese Cake and Gazpacho*,” Avatar informed as she brought up a screen of the new restaurant’s menu.

“Okay, we’ll go eat there during lunchtime!” Ruby declared.

- East Area [Celina Restaurant] -

Once the trio arrived at the newly opened restaurant’s entrance, they saw a long line. “Uh oh, the line seems pretty long,” Frost observed. “Do you think we will be able to eat? We should’ve come earlier.”

“It’s the lunch hour rush, Frost. Of course, the long’s going to be long.”

Netto scans the line and sees Henshin in the crowd. “Hey, Henshin-kun!”

“Oh, Netto!” Henshin replied. He is suddenly ambushed by the trio on asking him to join his spot. “All right, but we are paying separately. Got it! I am not paying for your meals.”

“Don’t worry, I got my wallet right here!” Ruby assured, showing Henshin her wallet. After putting it away, she starts mingling. “So, Henshin, how did you hear about the new restaurant opening up?”

“There was an online advertisement when I was web browsing,” Henshin replied. He glances at the line and notices the movement. “Come on, it is starting to move we don’t want to keep the rest waiting.” As they entered the restaurant, Ruby adored the interior design. The painted walls and the arrangement of the natural rattan furniture remind her of enjoying a meal under the moon. Even the dangling lanterns resembled stars in the night sky.

“Table for four,” Frost replied to the register.

“You are in luck, a table just opened up,”

After another employee escorted them to their table and left, Netto and his group mingled. “So, what have you been doing, Henshin-kun?”

The red-haired boy was a bit nervous but decided to make his announcement. “Me, well…I’m going to retake my Process of Discovery Trial.” The trio fell silent and were shocked by his decision.

“Wait? Henshin, are you serious?!” Frost replied. “I thought you weren’t going to do it ever again?”

“I was but, but I want to be useful to the team!” Henshin argued, “I don’t have a Navi nor any Magic User powers and we are going to be leaving soon so… This was something that was on my mind for a while.”

“Henshin, don’t push yourself to do something that you don’t want to do due to external factors,” Frost assured. “Your support is enough, Felica doesn’t have any Magic User abilities either but her medical skills make up for that.”

“Yeah, but she has a Navi,” Henshin retorted. “She may not be a very skilled net battler as Netto, Isla, or Aeon but she’s pretty competent. So where does that leave me?”

“What about Stacy and Bulleta?” Ruby reminded. “Both of them are pretty competent in their own right as well! Bulleta is a great weapon specialist; she can wield both weapons very well due to her ability to use both her hands equally.”

“Wait, Bulleta is ambidextrous?” Netto asked incredulously. 

“Well, duh, isn’t it obvious, but it is understandable since many people believe that Bulleta practiced a lot due to her younger years,” Ruby explained. “She normally uses her double barrel shotgun and her sword, so many onlookers don’t know that about her until she uses weapons of the same type i.e. two swords or two guns.”

“Now that you mention it, she is very capable of utilizing weapons with both hands.” Netto recollected, “I thought it was because she was very skilled, though her being ambidextrous makes a lot of sense. She wields my dual Giga Buster Guns very well.”

“So, Henshin, when is your trial going to start?” Frost asked.

“It’s going to be a few days,” Henshin replied.

“Well, it’s settled then. Henshin, we’ll be rooting for your success in your new trial,” Ruby Beamed, “So are you going to bring a partner with you?”

“Why yes,” Henshin replied. “It’s Netto.”

“Netto? Why him? Why not, Frost?”

“Well, it’s just, when Netto completed his trial, it sparked something in me,” Henshin explained. “Sure, Netto went through a pretty traumatic experience and later developed Generalized Anxiety Disorder, but he still persevered and got his powers. So if Netto can do it despite getting traumatized in the end, I can do it as well.”

“Henshin-kun,” Netto was clearly touched by the red-headed boy’s words.

“That’s pretty inspirational,” Ruby noted. “Have you told Briana or Bella?”

“I already informed them,” Henshin replied. “I’m cleaning my weapons for reuse at my new trial.”

“You mean your gun and that black shield?” Ruby asked. “Your family’s heirloom?”

“Yeah, the Cedron Shield,” Henshin explained. “It’s a shield made out of obsidian and other hardy materials. It’s a family heirloom that was passed down for many generations. I failed my first one due to many errors on my part such as forgetting my gun and not properly utilizing my shield.”

“It doesn’t hurt to try again,” Netto assured. “Sure it was scary but if you preserve then you will succeed.”

“Thanks, guys,” Henshin thanked. “I think I’m ready to take on my second Process of Discovery Trial.”

After they ate lunch, Ruby took the group to go visit the fireworks stand to purchase some for herself.

“Since the Summer Solstice Festival is coming real soon, I can’t wait to see this year’s collection!” Ruby beamed, “I wonder what this year’s theme is?”

“Hey, Ruby!” the stand owner recognized, “If it isn’t my favorite customer! Here to buy another firework?”

“You bet! Do you have this year’s theme fireworks in stock?”

“Of course, we got them yesterday,” the stand owner replied. “It’s Dragon, in celebration of the awakening of the new Aaron!”

Netto felt embarrassed when his new status was mentioned but her felt proud inside. He may have a powerful God hidden in his body but he was helpful and benevolent. Cryptic at times, but Draco means well.

“Really! I’ll take it!” Ruby proudly said. She happily purchases the dragon-themed firework.

“Now once you light that baby up and it sent towards the sky, it’ll show a picture of a red dragon,” the stand owner explained.

“Okay, got it!” Ruby smiled. “I can’t wait to use this during the festival! Say, Netto, do you want to stay at my house tonight?”

“Tonight? But that is so sudden!” Netto protested, “I have to ask Dr. Cerys and the others if I could. She is the one that is taking care of me.”

“Okay,” Ruby beamed, “If she said yes, I can’t wait to see you tonight! I want to show you the entire process of how to make homemade glass ornaments.”

“But wait, isn’t that weird for a guy to stay over at a girl’s place?” Netto asked. “I mean I did stay over at Meiru-chan’s place a couple of times so…”

“Hmm? What are you implying?” Ruby asked, “Oh, are you saying that you need to date the girl in order to stay over?”

This made Netto blush in utter embarrassment. “N-no, nothing like that! I didn’t mean it that!”

“Oh, Netto, you silly guy!” Ruby laughed. “That misconception was debunked a thousand years ago! People don’t think like that today. Boys can visit girls by themselves and vice versa. People still do make assumptions but considering we are accepting of all kinds of relationships regardless of gender and species, the waters get a bit muddled.”

“Oh…” Netto can think up a lot of scenarios when people assume two humans are dating each other but in reality, are dating different individuals that come from totally different species. He can imagine how incredibly awkward it could be and why people stopped assuming relationships between two individuals. “I see, they just keep it to themselves.”

“Yup, no back-talking or anything,” Ruby acknowledged. “It is pretty normal for humans to have romantic relationships with other humanoid species in our world. Anyway, I was thinking of inviting Isla and Aeon as well! They have been getting closer to us recently considering the craziness going down. Your discovery of your newfound electric powers, your contract to Draco, discovering the secrets of our world that were forgotten. It seems like a wild roller coaster ride lately!”

“You’re right, things have gotten crazy during the last few weeks before the great journey,” Netto replied. “If this is what adventures are like in Universe B then I can’t imagine what it’s like if we go to the other dimensions before the big day. I’m going to miss this place when it is time to go.”

“Oh…Have you decided to stay in your old home dimension?” Ruby asked. She sounds disappointed like she wanted him to stay here.

“Not yet,” Netto answered. “I need more time to consider. I think I’m having a hard time due to the fact that my family and old friends declared me dead. Do they still want me around?”

“Oof, that is a problem,” Ruby commented. “I would be upset too if my family and old friends declared me dead, I would have trust issues as well.”

“I mean I don’t fully blame them,” Netto replied. “They didn’t choose to declare me dead since that was out of their hands. Maybe they were trying very hard to make sure I didn’t get that status but failed.”

Frost put his hand on Netto’s shoulder as a form of emotional support. “Hey, it’s okay. Take your time to decide and they will have to accept your decisions if you choose to stay in our world.” Netto nods in acknowledgment and asks a hard question. “Will you do the same if I chose to stay in my old home?”

The group fell silent for a minute after being hit with a very hard question. Frost was the one to break the silence. “I know it won’t be easy for us since we’ve grown close to you but we will accept your decision as well.” Netto nods in acknowledgment, but he understands it isn’t easy to say goodbye.

- West Area [Unido Residence] -

After Netto got permission from Dr. Cerys and pursued Draga and Angel to come with him, he was staying at Ruby’s place for a sleepover party. Ruby didn’t mind him bringing the two girls over as the more the merrier. The other invitees were Frost, Aeon, and Isla. All six of them were wearing pajamas and huddling around the TV in the lying room. Their Navis projecting themselves on their shoulders. They were discussing what movie to watch.

“So what should we watch?” Isla asked.

“How about an action movie?” Aeon suggested. “My favorite ones were from the Restoration Era. They were pretty popular.”

“How about a comedy-oriented movie instead?” Draga interjected.

“Nah, comedy films are often hit or miss,” Isla rejected.

“Frost, what do you suggest?” Netto innocently asked.

“NO!” The group quickly interjected.

Netto was confused by their behavior but Draga quickly cleared that up. “Frost always chooses documentaries as a suggestion and if we accept it, well you’ll be very bored and asleep once it ends.”  

“I remember falling asleep that one time Frost chose a documentary on penguins,” Isla recalled. “That’s one hour and thirty minutes of my life that I’ll never get back. I mean there is nothing wrong with watching documentaries it’s just many people our age find that pretty boring.”

“How about a horror film then?” Netto suggested.

“That’s a great idea!” Aeon approved, “How about the newly released DVD Movie, Asymptote Displacement*”

“Oh~! You mean that movie with lots of abstraction art visuals and confusing math equations?” Ruby asked.

“Same one,” Aeon confirmed. “Though you don’t have to be a horror film to be afraid of math.”

“Touché,” Netto added. “I’m terrible at math, that’s my worst subject in school.”

“I’m more terrible at reading and comprehension,” Ruby replied. “I do fine in math but reading and comprehension is where I struggle the most.”

“Then it’s settled, Asymptote Displacement is our movie to watch tonight.”

During their watch of the film, their Navis were having fun trying to interpret the different math equations on screen while the operators were cowering in fear from the abstract monsters psychologically tormenting the human characters. Once the film was finished, everyone enjoyed it. However, the operators had difficulty sleeping that night due to the monsters. Their Navis sacrifice their sleep cycles to soothe their operators’ irrational fears.

EXTRA: 

Ruby Unido

Chapter Text

Frost picks up his duffel bag from his room. Inside were food, water, swimming trunks, and a change of clothes. As he heads out, Netto waits for him at his doorstep, his bag filled with bare necessities. “Ready to go Netto?”

“Yeah!” Netto beamed.

- West Area [Caldwiella Lake] -

Netto was amazed that a lake with such clear, beautiful water was well hidden in this town. The sunlight shone down at the lake, giving the clear water a glistening effect. He could see fish swimming peacefully in the water.

“Caldwiella Lake is a naturally formed lake created from run-off melted water from the Aneira Mountains,” Frost explained. “The low count of algae and highly nutrient-rich soil are also factors to the lake’s clarity.” He dipped his two fingers into the water and was satisfied with the temperature, “It’s perfect.”

Netto was curious and dipped his two fingers into the water to check the temperature. “The water is cold!”

“Well, this water is from the melted mountain snow so of course is cold,” Frost commented. “I’m going to set up the changing tent.”

“Changing tent? But we were just here to swim,” Netto asked. “We can just leave our clothes near the lake.”

“Just in case some mischievous kids steal our clothes,” Frost replied. “You can never be too careful.”

“True…” Netto could recall the time that he went swimming with Dekao and their clothes were stolen. They had to return home wet with their swimming clothes on. They never found the culprits.

It took 15 minutes for Frost to set up the tent. After checking the tent’s stability, he unzips the light blue ten and goes inside to change into his cyan and blue swimming shorts. “All right, Netto, I’m done. Your turn.” Netto goes inside the tent with his backpack and reemerges wearing his black and orange swimming shorts.”

“Is it okay, to leave our bags in the tent?”

“Of course, so we don’t lose them and get stolen,” Frost replied. “Come on, let’s go to that spot to relax and swim.”

The duo walks across the stone borderline between the lake and grass and came across a clearing with two stone pillars. It was the perfect camping ground. “Hey, why don’t we move the changing tent here after our swim?” Netto suggested.

“Good idea,” Frost agreed. “I’ll gather some firewood later for the campfire.”

Frost and Netto found a spot that was shallow enough for them to sit down. It took a while for Netto to accumulate to the cold temperature while sitting next to Water Type Magic User. Both of them looked up and were enjoying the serenity and beauty of the scenery. It was a very clear day and Netto notices the mountains. “Hey, Frost is that the Aneira Mountains?”

“Yes, it’s pretty popular for tourists, hikers, and the locals alike,” Frost explained. “I would sometimes take weekend trips there with family and/or with Henshin.”

“I see…” Netto commented, “I wish I could visit that place but we’ll be leaving soon. I don’t think we have the time to go there.”

“True…” Frost added. “But if you decide to stay here, I’ll take you there. Henshin will come, too!”

“Really? I’m looking forward to it!”

Meanwhile, Avatar materializes as Ava inside the changing tent. She glances back at her operator and Frost’s backpacks. Netto left his PET in the bag and was worried that it would be stolen as well since it is a pretty unique model. She froze when she heard the zipper. At first, she assumed it was Frost or Netto trying to change or get something from their bags. But instead were two unknown boys that were at least 7 to 8 years ago. “Hey, what are you two doing?! What in the world are you trying to do?” They were starting to get frightened by Ava’s loud voice. They were not expecting someone to be in the tent. “Get out before I swing my axe at you!” The two boys scamper away after being scared by the blue-haired girl’s threat. Once they ran away, Ava zipped up the ten door and hugged her knees together. She then hears more footsteps coming towards the tent, she is about to yell at them when it is Frost and Netto.

“Guys?”

“Ava-chan what happened?”

“I had to scare away two boys who were trying to steal your belongings,” Ava replied. “I think I traumatized them or something.”

“Nah, I think you taught them a valuable lesson,” Frost assured. “They should have known better not to steal someone else’s things.”  

“Oh, Ava, since you’re here, do you want to come with us?” Netto asked.

“Are you sure? What about your belongings?”

“They’ll be fine, I think your scare tactic scared those troublemakers off,” Frost assured.

“But Netto, I don’t have a bathing suit…” Ava revealed.

“Still? Didn’t you buy one when you went shopping with Ruby-chan and the others back in Mira,” Netto recalled.

“There wasn’t anything I like when we were picking bathing suits,” Ava replied.

“I see…” Netto ponders on what to do about this conundrum. “How about you come and watch?” he suggested, “You can keep an eye on us.”

“I don’t want to leave your belongings unattended,” Ava observed.

“It’s fine. We were thinking of moving them to the same area where we found a good swimming spot,” Frost assured.

Netto, Frost, and Ava gathered the tent and the rest of their belongings to the said spot. Netto and Frost went back to the lake and swam to their hearts’ content. Ava stays behind to watch them swim. She was amazed at how they seemed to do it effortlessly. Netto dives underwater while Frost performs the butterfly stroke on the surface. Ava heads to the stone border and sees the fish swimming above the water’s surface. Then a figure was swimming up, scaring the fish away in the process. The identity of the mysterious swimmer was Netto.

“Boo!” Netto cried.

“Wah! Netto, you scared me!”

“Ha, ha! Got you!” Netto chuckled. Ava reacts by splashing water on Netto’s face. Netto retaliates by splashing back, leaving Ava soaking wet. Her clothes felt tight from being drenched in water. Frost shook his head at the scene. “Those two are something,” he observed. “They’re acting like siblings.”

After Netto and Frost finished swimming, they changed back into their old clothes. Ava was given a spare towel from Frost to dry off. Once lunchtime hits, Netto and Frost get out their meals. Netto brought an orange bento box that contained a homemade lunch that he and Draga made. It contains California Sushi Rolls, rice balls, and sausages shaped like little octopi. An orange juice can was also with his lunch Frost’s lunch was BLT (bacon, lettuce, and tomato) sandwiches, a small bag of fries, and a can of blueberry juice. Ava looks very interested as the boys start eating their lunch.

“Oh, Ava-chan do you want to try some of our food?” Netto asked.

“No, I don’t want to impose and eat your lunch,” Ava declined.

“Come on, try one bite,” Netto insisted. “You should try to eat more food. You have a very desirable ability that many Navis would only dream of. Eating real human food, different textures, etc. So you should take more advantage of it!”

“Here Ava, try my BLT sandwich and some of my fries,” Frost offered. He takes out a spare disposable plate and puts some of his food on it. Ava was cautious but accepted the platter.

“Here, try some of the sushi, rice balls, and sausage that Draga and I made.” Netto puts some of his food on Ava’s plate.

The blue-haired girl was amazed at the sheer variety. Which food item should she try first? She chooses the sushi and it tastes fresh and savory. Second was the BLT sandwich which tastes savory as well. Third were the fries, they were cold but tasted crunchy and salty. Fourth, the sausages were just as savory as the sushi and sandwiches. Finally, she tried the rice balls and it tasted like a mixture of avocado and lime.

“Do you like the rice balls, Ava?” Netto asked. “Draga is the one to suggest putting fruit in it. We experimented on what fruit to put in it but avocado and lime were the best combination. When we tried it, it was a mixture of a zesty yet savory taste.”

“I like it, thanks, Netto.”

“I’m going to get some firewood,” Frost informed. “I’ll be right back.”

“Come on, Ava. Let’s prepare the ingredients for the s’mores before Frost-kun gets back.” Netto insisted, “I’ll show you how to prep the ingredients.”

“Prep the ingredients?” Ava asked, “You mean get them ready before you cook them right?”

“Yeah, since s’mores is easy to make what we need are graham crackers, chocolate, and marshmallows!” Netto takes the graham crackers and marshmallows, but there are no chocolate bars.

“Netto, where are the chocolate bars?” Ava asked, “We can’t cook without them.”

“They’re in Frost-kun’s bag, we need to wait for him to go back since he has a lock on it.”

“Why would Frost put a lock on his own bag?”

“Probably to prevent theft?” Netto guessed.

Meanwhile, Frost was gathering some fuel for the fire such as branches and leaves. During his time alone, a lot of thoughts start of strew in his mind. A lot of his friends have been getting NetNavis lately, maybe he should get one as well. However, he shook his head. It was hard to get one considering he knows the true origin of the NetNavis. They were created from the remains of a dead Goddess and can evolve to have real human emotion. It feels wrong to have a digital being with real feelings as just a digital assistant to serve your every whim. But on the other hand, the relationships he observed with his friends and their Navis seem pretty genuine. Natsu and Mira seem to be closer. Aeon and Radioman were thick as thieves. Isla and Amar might bicker but have each other’s back. Even the recent duos were forming close bonds. Felica was getting close to Aala and Cyndi with the development of the Battle Router. Draga and Aithusa were forming. Finally, Netto and Avatar. Maybe having a Navi wasn’t a bad idea if he treated them as an equal. They would be a partner, a faithful companion. Would they enjoy the things that he enjoys? Would they stick by his side when things get tough?

He is satisfied with his pile and goes back to the clearing. “I’m back with the firewood. Did I miss anything?”

“Nothing, we just need your help to unlock your bag so we get the chocolate bars,” Netto replied.

“Oh, right, hold on.” Frost puts the pile to the side to unlock his bag so he can get the chocolate bars.

It took a while for the trio to set up and start the fire but once it was burning, Netto instructed Ava on to roast the marshmallows. “Okay, Ava-chan, here’s how you cook the marshmallows. I know a technique to create the best ones from Ruby-chan. You need to rotate the marshmallow ever so often so it doesn’t get burnt or melt off the skewer.” He impales a few marshmallows on a couple of wooden skewers and gives one to Ava. She follows her operator’s instructions and the fluffy white sweet slowly turns golden brown. “That’s great, Ava. I didn’t know you were a natural. You got it right on your very first try. All right, now get two graham crackers, put a chocolate bar on top of one, and your marshmallow on the other. Then sandwich them together. Tada! A s’more!” Ava looks at the finished dessert, the hot marshmallow seems to blend with a chocolate bar between the two graham crackers. She took a bite and it was very sweet, but the flavors blended very well together. She enjoys the gooey treat. “Making homemade meals is the best!” Netto happily commented. He then takes a bite out of the s’more he made.

After eating, the trio looks up to admire the Aneira Mountains. “Hey, Netto, Ava, I was thinking about something.”

“What is it, Frost-kun?”

“I was thinking about having my own Navi.” Frost confessed, “I was wondering if Navis can be in the same realm as humans. So they can freely interact with not only their operators but other humans as well. I know it seems to be a fantasy but with the existence of Avatar and the Dimensional Area, it is surely possible in the far future. Could other worlds have similar technology in which Navis freely live alongside humans?”

“Frost, we have the Dimensional Area back in my home dimension,” Netto informed. “But now that you mention it, we used to have Copyroids* that were created by Makoto-san. But invaders from Beyondard or Universe D were using them as tools of war. I can understand why Ava is so afraid of sharing her secret ability, if this knowledge fell into the wrong hands then it could cause a war.”  

“But a guy could dream,” Frost interjected. “I understand the risks but surely by the time substantiation technology becomes public there should already be regulations in place to avoid being abused.”

“Let’s hope so…” Ava cautioned.

The trio continues to look up admiring the beauty of the Aneira Mountains.

EXTRA:

Chapter Text

Thousands of loose papers on different Net Battling strategies litter Aeon’s room. Discarded magazine of competitive Net Battling abandoned on his floor. They contained details of using obscure combos by using underutilized chips. However, Aeon couldn’t obtain them due to rarity, price, or both. “Grah! At this rate, I’ll never Isla!” Aeon exasperated, “Time and time again, every new strategy failed. If only…if only…” He pushes away another scribbled-out strategy paper and magazine. “Isn’t there any way to beat them?”

“I understand your pain, Aeon,” Radioman sympathized. “There is so much humiliation one Navi can take from losing constantly from his opponent. It seems like the only way to beat them is to learn the same powerful technique as them.”

“The Program Advance?” Aeon answered, “But that technique is potent and could take years to master unless someone else teaches me. Isla is out of the question but him.” His orange eyes turn towards a picture of Netto. “Maybe he can.”

- North Area [TDF District (Vaeda Net Battle Room)] -

“Okay, Felica-chan, if you use this combination of battle chips then you can easily pull off this Program Advance combo,” Netto instructed.

“Okay, Battle Chip, Cannon, Mega Cannon, and High Cannon. Program Advance!”

“ZETA CANNON!” Aala and Cyndi cried in unison.

“It’s a success!” Felica cried as her Navis successfully deleted a huge horde of viruses.

“Well done, Felica!” Dr. Cerys praised. “I’m glad the machine didn’t overload after practicing that Time Bomb Program Advance. I believe that is enough for today, we have enough data to collect to improve the Battle Router.”

After the testing was completed, Netto, Draga, Angel, and Felica were in the reception room where Aeon was waiting for them.

“Oh, Aeon-kun?”

“Aeon, what are you doing here?” Anel asked.

“Netto, I need your help!” Aeon pleaded, “Please teach me how to use the Program Advance. I need to beat Isla at her own game!” Netto was surprised when Aeon was on his hands and knees begging the brunette to teach him that certain technique. He must be that desperate.

“Wait, Aeon, you don’t know how to use the Program Advance?” Netto asked.

“No. There wasn’t much info available on it, much less on how to activate it,” Aeon replied.

“So, it is still a pretty much unknown skill in this world…” Netto muttered. “Okay, I’ll help you, but if you treat me.”

“All right, what’s the catch?” Aeon accepted.

“You treat me to ice cream,” Netto smiled.

“That isn’t too bad,” Aeon replied. “Eulalia’s prices are pretty affordable.”

“I want to try the banana split,” Netto clarified. “I heard that the cookies and cream variant is pretty good.”

“Wait is that one of the pricier items on their menu?” Draga recalled.

“Shit, that is going to take a huge chunk of my wallet,” Aeon cursed. “I spent most of my allowance on new battle chips.”

“Don’t worry, I’ll share my treat with you,” Netto assured.

“Still…That price…Nah, it’s fine,” Aeon reasoned. “As long as I can learn the Program Advance from you then it will be worth it!”

“Okay, let’s go to the arcade then. You did bring all your battle chips?”

“Yup, they’re all right here, in my battle chip pouch!” Aeon beamed, “I’m pumped to finally learn that powerful skill and beat Isla once and for all. I’ll finally take her down her high horse.”

“Aeon, we can hear your boasting from here,” Draga commented.

Aeon felt embarrassed when everyone overheard his words.

- East Area [Strelitzia Mall (Breeze Orchid Arcade)] -

“All right, Aeon-kun, are you ready for your first lesson?” Netto asked. “Now when pulling a Program Advance, you need to put the chips in the exact order otherwise it won’t work. However, the tricky part is the timing. It will take a bit of practice to tie it down. Why don’t we plug in and start the lesson.”

“Plug in! Avatar! Transmission!”

“Plug in! Radioman! Transmission!”

Once both of their Navis are plugged in, Netto continues his lesson. “Okay, we will start by using a Program Advance that requires using the same chip three times. We’ll use the Mugen Vulcan* Program Advance. To pull it off, you need three Vulcan Battle Chips. Then quickly slot them in succession.”

“Vulcan, Triple Slot-in! Program Advance!”

“Mugen Vulcan!” Radioman cried. Both of his arms transformed into Vulcan guns, the yellow and grey Navi fused them together once the data for the last Vulcan was received. The glow becomes brighter and fires his attack at a few Mettools, but nothing works. “Huh, what happened? It stopped working?”

“What the hell?”

“That’s normal,” Netto assured. “When you first use it, the power input will suddenly disperse even if you did successfully pull off the correct sequence.”

Aeon grits his teeth, “Well if at first, you don’t succeed try, try again. Radioman we have to try again until we get it right!” He then goes to the nearby chip charging station which was attached to the machine. Netto finds that mechanical structure is convenient. In his old home, the charging stations were usually mounted near the Game Center’s Arcade Entrance. “Netto, let’s keep on practicing until Radioman and I get it right! I don’t care if it takes us one or ten hours, I need to beat Isla!”

“Sure! You are very fired up today!” Netto commented.

“My motivation in beating Isla is enough to master the Program Advance,” Aeon reasoned. “Come on, Netto, let’s continue.”

For the past few hours, Aeon and Radioman were practicing endlessly to make sure that their Program Advance does not easily falter when executing it against a virus. Time and time again, each attempt failed but it made them more determined to try even better.

It was almost sundown when Aeon and Radioman were finished with their training.

- Eulalia Ice Cream Shop -

“Guah! That was seriously the most intense training I have ever experienced,” Aeon commented.

“To be honest, you were more focused on perfecting the timing of your Program Advance execution,” Netto added. He looks down at his cookies and cream banana split. “Thanks for helping me pay for the dessert, Aeon-kun! Itadakimasu!” He takes a spoon and dips it into one scoop of cookies and cream and happily consumes the sweet treat. Netto enjoys the texture and the crunchiness of the black cookie crumbs as he gleefully chews on them. As Aeon takes a bite out of his share, he sees Aimi twirling around. He would have brushed it off, but what caught his attention was that she was twirling with a Navi on her head.

“Odd, when did Aimi get a Navi?” Aeon asked. Netto looks up and also notices that Aimi is indeed playing with a Navi.

“That is weird, when did she get hers?” Netto asked.

Aimi keeps twirling around faster and faster until she got dizzy and falls onto her butt. “Hehehe! Ha ha ha! That was fun!”

“Aimi, I’m dizzy!” The Navi complained. The navigator on the pink-haired girl’s head was based on candy and sweets. Her helmet resembles a candy apple. With the red and green coloration with pieces of blue and white parts resembling candy pieces, and a brown antenna sticking from the back. Her torso was designed differently. Her red and green chest with her chest insignia shaped like a lollipop and her brown cupcake-like skirt was attached by a blue and white marble. Her blue and white striped gloves and over-the-knee socks with red boots decorated with the same candy design completed the look.

“Hey, Aimi. Who’s your new Navi friend?” Aeon inquired with careful wording.

“Oh, hi, Aeon and Netto!” Greeted. “This is my new friend, Dulcie! She’s Auntie Pamina’s, new Navi! She came yesterday, but since Auntie Pamina doesn’t Virus Bust as often, I would play with her instead.”

“Odd, why a candy-themed Navi?” Aeon pondered. “I know that candies such as sprinkles are a topping but still a weird choice. An ice creamed-themed Navi would be better suitable because of your family business.”

“I know that, but something got mixed up and Dulcie was created,” Aimi replied. She looks up and sees Pamina traversing between refilling ice cream buckets and cleaning some plastic ice cream cups. “After Avatar deleted the viruses, Pamina wanted a NetNavi of her own to maintain the Sherbet Network. The company sent her a brand new, custom Navi free of charge. Although her design barely fits the ice cream theme. But it is such a waste to give Dulcie away, I want to keep her. Though I don’t know if Mama will allow me to.”

“Did you ask Pamina if you want to keep Dulcie?” Aeon asked. “Because she still needs that Navi to clear our viruses in the ice cream machine’s network.”

“Not yet…” Aimi replied, “Though I wish I could keep her, I’ve gotten attached to her.” She looked up at the candy-themed Navi was a bright smile; Dulcie couldn’t help but mirror her grin.

Netto looks out the window and sees that the sun is almost gone from the horizon. “It’s getting late, Aeon-kun. Why don’t we call it a day and continue tomorrow?”

“Great idea, my arm is a bit sore from all that training,” Aeon agreed. “Tomorrow, Radio and I will get it right, see ya!” He waves goodbye as he heads home. 

- West Area [Cerys Residence] -

When Netto returns to the beach house, Dr. Cerys is already at home, cooking a meal. She was making hamburgers when he arrived. “Oh, Dr. Cerys!” he noticed, “You’re home?”

“Yup, I managed to finish all my work,” the female brunette scientist answered. “Oh, Netto about your Battle Router, we were able to complete the first prototype.”

“Really, that fast?”

“Yes, you, Felica, and her Navis, Aala, and Cyndi, were big contributors to the fast and successful completion of the first Battle Router prototype.”

“So, when can I get it?”

“A few days before the Summer Solstice Festival,” Dr. Cerys replied.

“That’s great news, Netto,” Avatar commented. “That’s one secret weapon we can use against Nix.”

Knock! Knock! “Huh? Who can that be in this hour?” Dr. Cerys pondered.

“I’ll get it!” Netto beamed,

He goes to the front door and opens it. To his surprise, it was Isla. “Oh, Isla-chan! What are you doing here?”

“Oh, I was invited by Draga and Aithusa to come here. She needs some help with the more advanced Net Battling techniques,” Isla replied.

“Hey, I’m here!” Netto protested, “I’m a skilled Net Battler as well!”

“But aren’t you working on the Battle Router?” Isla pointed out. “Even if you’re not working on that device with Dr. Cerys and her colleagues, you’re busy with your drawings and other hobbies.”

“You do have a point,” Netto acknowledged.

“Anyway, where’s Draga?”

“She’s in her room,” Netto replied.

“Okay, going up!” Isla then goes upstairs to teach Draga some Net Battling techniques in her room.

Netto was curious; what is Aeon and Isla’s relationship? How deep does it go and how long do they know each other?

“Netto, do you want to surf the internet today?” Avatar asked.

“Later, Avatar, I want to ask Isla something.”

- Draga’s Room -

“Hey, Draga!” Isla greeted.

“Oh, Isla, I’m glad that you’re here!” Draga beamed.

“Yup, are you ready for your Net Battling Training 102?”

“I don’t fully know what that means but I’m pumped!” Aithusa approved.

“That’s great, I picked up some new techniques from this Net Battler Magazine, so first let’s start with Battle Chip Folder construction.” Isla flips to the first section of the magazine where it shows a lot of tips on how to build your folder with the most optimization. “There are some Net Battlers that construct their folders that revolve around their Navi’s type. Since Aithusa’s type is Fire, maybe go for some Battle Chips that will give her an elemental advantage in battle. Some Battle Chips focus on changing the battlefield, but here’s the interesting part. They would use Terrain Battle Chips that are weak against the type of their NetNavi. For example, if a Navi is an Elec Type then they will use Ice Stage. It says that it boosts the damage input. Another style is using obstacles to deal damage. For example, if you use a Stone Cube then use a wind-type Battle Chip. That could do some serious damage.”

“Oh, wow, I didn’t know that Battle Chip construction has so many options,” Draga commented.

“Yup, when the battle against another Net Battler, the chips they use will give you a hint on what type of a person they are,” Isla replied. “For example, a Net Battler using weaker chips is someone who uses them in a very creative and strategic way. While another one that uses rare and powerful chips indicates that the Net Battler prefers power but at the cost of strategy.”

“That’s pretty interesting!” Aithusa interjected.

Knock! Knock! “Um, can I come in?”

“Oh, Netto, yes, you can enter,” Draga allowed. Netto opens the door and notices that Isla is teaching Draga on how to construct her Battle Chip Folder.

“Isla-chan, are you instructing Draga on how to make her own Battle Chip Folder?” Netto observed. “That’s the most fun part about Net Battling. Creating your own personal folder and using it in battle though trying to master the fluidity and functionality of it is the difficult part.”

“Really, then Netto what battle chips do you prefer to use?” Draga asked.

“Actually, what I think is cool.” Netto revealed, “I use a lot of different chips, Cannon, Swords, Bombs, etc.”

“You don’t have a specific strategy?”

“No, besides you need to change up your folder every once in a while otherwise you become predictable,” Netto replied. “My friend, Dekao, would always use powerful attacks when he was operating Gutsman. This makes him easy to predict and easily dodge his attacks.”

“Wow, a Net Battler that never improves, one of the worst ones,” Isla commented. “But anyway, why are you here?”

“I was just curious about your relationship with Aeon,” Netto asked. “How much do you know about him?”

“Well besides enjoying music and Net Battling, he enjoys energy drinks with little to no caffeine particularly orange and lemonade flavors, creating tie-dye clothing, is pretty messy when he eats, and does not like getting pranked especially his sister,” Isla replied. “Is there anything you want to know about him?”

“That’s not the type of info I wanted to hear but thanks. Isla-chan, how did you meet Aeon?”

“Oh, how did I meet him? Well, Netto, you are in for a long story,” Isla replied. “You see, I was born and raised in Beach Flora Town for all of my life. I think I first met Aeon when I was attending elementary school. He actually moved from another town with his family and younger sister.”

“Why is this reminding me of Yaito-chan?” Netto recalled.

“Yaito?”

“Yeah, one of my friends was an actual genius who transferred to my elementary school in 6^th grade,” Netto replied. ‘I wonder if Isla and Yaito would get along or clash against each other if they met?’ “Anyway, Isla when did you first have an interest in Net Battling?”

“Well, it all started when I was attending middle school,” Isla recollected fondly. “Malosi and Lani managed to scrap some money to afford Amar and gave her to me on my birthday. That was the best birthday gift ever. Once I got her, Aeon was the one to introduce me to Net Battling. I had trouble keeping up with him but after I learned the Program Advance, I’ve always won against him. Sure, there were times that he and Radioman had the upper hand, but we won all of our recent battles with them.”

‘That explains why Aeon is so bitter about losing against Isla all the time,’ Netto mentally thought. ‘He’s like Dekao, he won’t stop until he gets one win.’

“So, I’ve heard that you’ve been teaching Aeon hot to use the Program Advance?” Isla asked.

“Uh, yeah, where did you hear that from?”

“Oh, I heard some mentions from the other neighborhood children,” Isla replied. “Aeon wants it to be a surprise but I know.”

“Is that so?” Netto muttered.

“Anyway, Isla, you should stay for dinner. We are having feta spinach pizza tonight,” Draga insisted.

“Sure, okay!” Isla replied, “That is my favorite type of pizza!”

During dinner when everyone is enjoying their dinner, Dr. Cerys starts the conversation with something important. “Everyone, I have something to announce. We have finally finished our central network project.”

“Really?”

“That’s great news!” Isla beamed.

“Did you hear that, Avatar and Amar, and area where we interact with our own kind!” Aithusa beamed, “I’m so excited; I wonder what kind of Navis will be there. Would we shop or battle with others?”

“We have something similar back in my old home would be called Internet City,” Netto interjected. “However, I believe there were plans of having different versions of the same thing in different countries due to the sheer amount of NetNavis that were occupying the Japanese server. They were worried that it would crash the site.”

“So, Dr. Cerys, when is the grand opening?” Angel asked. “I want to invite Felica and her Navis as well.”

“It is this weekend,” Dr. Cerys replied. “We just need more time to make sure there aren’t any major bugs in the beta test before the release. We are open to feedback if there are any bugs we may have missed. We even put a cash reward if they manage to find those flaws. The Grand Opening of this new network will have people from all over the world come to visit. Those that funded this long-term project will also be present there.”

“That’s so cool, can’t wait to see it!” Netto beamed.

“I’m looking for it, I wonder what it would be like to beat Aeon live?” Isla pondered, “It would be pretty fun.”

Netto, Draga, and Angel were exasperated by Isla’s comment. Yeah, she needed to be taken a peg down.

For the next few days, Netto teaches and trains Aeon on how to use Program Advance to prepare for the faithful fight against Isla. He can’t wait to end his losing streak against her and wipe that smirk off her face.

However, their next fight will not be in Breeze Orchid Arcade Net Battling Machine. Instead, it will be something new and grander. The newly built and released central network. Where all the NetNavis gather, socialize, and battle.

- North Area [TDF District] -

There was a press release and a lot of people from around the world came around for the first newly built network. Logically, every resident from Beach Flora was at the press release for this historical event. Netto was a bit uneasy at the huge gathering crowd. It wasn’t hard to find that he could find Navi holograms every five feet. They must be really excited to interact with this newly built network. He could see many familiar faces in the crowd. The event began as the current mayor was present to announce this historical event.

His name was Mayor Nitzan. He was slightly overweight for his age but wore a tropical flower-pattered shirt, khaki shorts, and brown shoes for this occasion. He was the first to present his speech. He was a bit nervous but coms his brown hair to compose himself before speaking.

“Everyone, on behalf of all the residents of Beach Flora, I am proud to be a part of this historical event,” he announced. “To think that our scientists from our town have managed to achieve such a previously impossible feat. To commemorate this event, a lovely speech from the head scientist who made this incredible endeavor, Begonia Aoki!”

“Aoki? There was one living member here in this town this entire time!?” Netto cried.

“I was shocked as well, Begonia is a very private person and doesn’t make many public appearances unless it is something as important as this.” Draga replied, “To think she was living here in our own town. She really is good at covering her tracks.”

On the podium was Begonia, she was pretty young but brilliant with blood ties to the Aoki Family. The successor to bring the deceased Hikari lineage’s dream to life. Begonia was a female with bright red hair and an orange flower hair clip on the left side, deep blue eyes, and pale skin. “Everyone, I am pleased to announce that the creation of our newly built network, the Summer Bluma is online!”

A huge floating screen pops up, revealing a tropical area near the beach filled with colorful flowers and vibrant plant life. Low poly models of palm trees complimented the area. However, it was pretty big in terms of space; there was plenty of empty space to set up shops or chat with other Navis.

Avatar was very curious about this newly built network; it was so serene that it resembled the real world but contained elements that seemed to defy physics like floating objects in the air. It was its own thing. The newly constructed server contains low poly models of palm trees and certain plants and bushes but the tropical flowers remained realistic.

“Everyone, plug your Navis into the network,” Begonia instructed.

- Summer Bluma Network -

Avatar was greeted by the same digital beach that was showcased earlier. However, it seems much more beautiful in person. The 3D, low poly palm trees were present, the water, and the larger clearings were there but there was more detail that wasn’t shown on screen. The floating globes pass her by with small plumeria flowers twirling or tropical fish swimming inside them. Groups of digital butterflies flutter in harmony. She looks up and sees the sun shining above with a few small clouds drifting by.

“Is this…”

“Avatar!” Aithusa beamed. Avatar looks to her right and sees all the Navis beaming at her. The Navis present with the white dragon Navi are Radioman, Amar, Aala, Cyndi, Mira, Crystalman, Delia, Reina, and Rideman. Even Tundraman was present.

“Everyone?”

“You didn’t think we wouldn’t come here?” Radioman beamed. “Please, there’s no way anyone would pass up to see the world’s first Internet Server for Navis.”

“I’ve never been in a central network before,” Aala observed.

“This place feels so nice and peaceful…” Cyndi added.

“Come on, let’s go explore!” Delia suggested.

“Great idea, I want to see what this place offers,” Reina agreed.

“Hey Tundraman, why are you here?” Amar asked.

“I was here on behalf of Haru and the rest of the Hikawa Family. We were also involved in the funding of this network,” Tundraman replied.

“So, where should we go first?” Mira inquired.

“How about that area?” Delia suggested. She was pointing to a neon-colored building that had a big sign showcasing colorful drinks and shakes.

“Is that the Chroma Juice Bar?” Radioman asked. “I didn’t know they have a facility in the Cyber World.”

“Of course, they are working with the collaboration of Cyber Delights to create drinks that replicate the real taste of human beverages.” Rideman explained, “However, this one is still under construction.” He gestures to a group of Normal Navis that were bringing in materials inside the building. “I believe it might take a few more weeks to get everything set up.”

“So, all the facilities aren’t ready yet?” Delia asked, disappointed by the news.

“I’m sure there’s one that is open around here,” Mira assured. “We should look around more and see what else the network offers.”

The entire group of Navis were wandering around. Avatar was in awe at how much more life this network was. Statues of floating globes were rotating above the small base with brooks of water circling around it. The other Navis were still taking in the scenery or mingling with their peers. She noticed that some of them had the insignia of a palm tree on a cyan background.

“Hey, are those Navis, workers?”

“That’s right, the silver Normal Navis help maintain the network,” Rideman replied. “They are responsible for cleanup and bug reports.”

“That’s so cool,” Reina commented.

“Hey, look! There’s a facility that’s opening!” Delia beamed.

A giant ice cream cone with a strawberry twist and sprinkles. The front was decorated with elegant, white patio furniture that was covered with vines and Rainbow Glory flowers. Some of the Navis were enjoying their cold treats. As the group approaches the gargantuan ice cream, Avatar easily recognizes the name.

“Hold on, this is the Eulalia Ice Cream Shop! When did they have the money to open a facility in this network?”

“Anyone can build a facility here with little to no cost,” Tundraman informed. “As long as there is space for it. If there is no more room for newcomers to build a brand new facility, then the staff expands it when the entire network gets a new update.

“Wait, how do you and Rideman know this?” Amar asked.

“We have connections to the team responsible for the project due to our families’ influence,” Rideman explained. “We just get the details from our operators’ relatives.”

Avatar glances over and sees Radioman looking at Amar weirdly. The look in his eyes tells her that he was focused on the timing of whether or not to challenge Amar to a Net Battle.

“Come on, Avatar! Let’s go inside the giant ice cream,” Aithusa beamed. She grabs the silver knight Navi’s wrist and quickly runs into the cold treat facility.

“We should head there as well,” Delia added. “I want to try their cyber ice cream as well.”

- Eriantha Server -

The server looks like the inside of a real ice cream parlor except the colors are different. Instead of the calming turquoise and neutral beige, it was swapped for a warm rose pink and bright pastel yellow. The change of colors gave the area a very lively appearance. Posters of various flavors of ice cream were plastered on the walls. Avatar noted that it was a bit fancier and elegant instead of being a simple, and minimalistic design. There was even a second floor as there was a black staircase beside the elegant pink, ice cream counter. What caught Avatar and Radioman was the Navi behind the counter; it was Dulcie.

“Hey, aren’t you Dulcie? The one, Aimi played with a few days ago?” Radioman recalled.

“Of course, I’m the same one!” Dulcie beamed. “But currently I’m Pamina’s’ NetNavi, so I have to manage the facility here. However, she and Aimi’s mother are still considering making me Aimi’s new Navi. Although that’s a problem since there are some factors to consider such as her age and if she is mentally capable of properly maintaining me.”

“You haven’t been cleared for operation?” Mira asked.

“Not yet…” Dulcie replied, “But I don’t mind managing the server, if the customers are happy with our treats then that’s fine with me.”

“Hold on, what about the Sherbet Network?” Avatar recalled. “I remember deleting some viruses in that area, what happened to it?”

“It is connected to this server,” Dulcie explained. “The entrance is the door behind me, but only staff are allowed inside. If you don’t have the proper access, you’re not permitted.”

“That’s a relief, I thought it was left to rot or something,” Avatar said.

“So, do you want to order any ice cream?” Dulcie asked.

“Huh, which flavor? Well…” Avatar looked down at the options and there was a lot to choose from. ‘This could be very overwhelming for a first-time customer.’

“Are you having trouble ordering? How about trying our most popular flavors?” Dulcie suggested, “Our popular flavor is Vanilla. Tied for second is our seasonal Matcha Green Tea and Rose. And coming in at third is Moon Mist!”

“I’ll order the Rose Flavor,” Mira declared. “Natsu seems to love that flavor a lot so I want to try it!”

“Chocolate for me!” Delia added, “Joan loves this flavor.”

“I’ll choose the Rainbow Sherbet!” Reina beamed, “Spectra enjoys this flavor.”

“One scoop of Goody, Goody Gum Drops,” Rideman ordered. “That’s one of Sherrice’s favorite flavors.”

As everyone eagerly gave out their orders, Avatar was still at a loss. What should she order? There were a couple of options. She could choose Moon Mist, one of the third popular flavors, or the ice cream flavors that Netto tried before Blue Moon, Red Sun, and Cookies and Cream. When she was still deciding her flavor, Amar and Radioman were ready to order theirs.

“Grape Flavor, Dulcie,” Amar answered.

“Do you have Orange and Lemonade flavored?” Radioman requested.

“Of course, Radioman,” Dulcie acknowledged. “I have Orange and Lemonade Sherbet in stock. Do you want a double scoop of these two flavors?”

“Sure,” Radioman answered.

“Avatar have you decided yet?” Aithusa asked. “I haven’t chosen either.”

“How about choosing Draga’s favorite ice cream flavors?” Avatar suggested.

“Good idea though I’m not sure what to choose since Draga likes Vanilla, Red Velvet, and the Azuki Red Bean,” Aithusa remembered. “Decisions, decisions…”

“How about Blue Raspberry?” Avatar suggested.

“Blue Raspberry? Is that one good?”

“It wouldn’t hurt to try. Dulcie, one scoop of Blue Raspberry Ice Cream please!” Avatar declared. Dulcie quickly makes the order and gives it to the grey Navi. “Have you finally made your decision?”

 “How about two scoops, one Vanilla, and one Red Velvet on one cone?” Aithusa requested.

“A double scoop got it!” Dulcie beamed. She scoops one vanilla and one red velvet and gives it to Aithusa.

“Whoa, it looks so good!” Aithusa commented.

“Come on, let’s go upstairs, I think there are more empty tables there,” Delia suggested.

Once everyone was settled into their seats, they started eating their ice cream.

Avatar tries her newly bought ice cream. She takes a small bite of the light blue, creamy treat. As soon as she consumed it, the flavor was a mixture of sweet and tart with a tangy aftertaste. It was a perfect treat to serve during the summer holidays. She looks up to Aithusa and she seems to enjoy her cold treat as well. She looked around and everyone else was happy with eating their ice cream.

“Avatar, you seem to enjoy your time!” Netto beamed. A screen of Netto pops in front of her.

“Ah, Netto, you scared me!”

“Sorry, anyway I was inquiring about what other facilities they have to offer,” Netto apologized. “Apparently they have a battle chip shop and a Net Battle Stadium here.”

“Really? Avatar we should go to the chip shop first!” Aithusa insisted. “I need new battle chips for Draga to use. Then use them at the stadium.”

“Later, everyone is eating their ice cream now,” Avatar answered.

- Alden Battle Chip Shop -

After everyone finished their ice cream, they went inside another facility that sells battle chips. “Whoa, look at the huge selection!” Aithusa observed with wonder.

“Looks like you can order any battle chip here,” Amar added.

Rideman looks around and sees the battle chip, he was looking for. “Ah, here it is!”

“What are you doing, Rideman?” Aala asked.

“I’m purchasing a battle chip,” Rideman answered. He pulls up a screen and quickly selects it on the menu, presses the cart button, and quickly purchases it. “Done, Sherrice was having trouble getting this battle chip overseas since the chip shops there rarely have it in stock.”

“Purchase completed! Thank you for your purchase! Your order will arrive in 3 - 5 business days. Thank you for shopping at our store, please come again!” an automatic voice inquired after Rideman completed the transaction.

“Whoa, that’s so cool!” Aithusa beamed, “Oh, what should I buy?”

“Hey, Rideman, you couldn’t buy the chip data directly?” Mira asked.

“Sorry, but battle chip data sold out much faster than buying a physical copy and shipping it to your home,” Rideman explained.

“Why would people buy digital copies of battle chip data? Wouldn’t that easily be copied?” Netto asked. “In my world, battle chip data can be transferred into an empty rare battle chip if you won against an opponent or from a drop after deleting a virus.”

“Nope, the battle chip data has a special type of encryption which stops the easy duplication,” Rideman explained. “The only way you can access it is if you can purchase it.”

“Isn’t that similar to ransomware?” Netto asked.

“No, Netto, the digital battle chip data we purchase is not ransomware,” Mira informed. “We have a law in place that prevents such access. If the battle chip data turns out to be ransomware then you are legally allowed to raid the attacker’s personal terminal in order to retrieve your stolen data.”

“Really, I didn’t know that law existed here,” Netto pondered. “How was it passed?”

“Oh, a politician was tricked by a third party selling him a suspicious-looking program.” Rideman explained, “I don’t know all the details but it ended with the Navi raiding the attackers’ personal computer and retrieving the data. So that’s why this law was passed. It was because of this that there weren’t any more incidents like this. If your personal terminal was destroyed because you were the one that sent the ransomware to the victim then insurance won’t cover the damages.”

“Oof, hit them at their wallets,” Mira commented.

“But hasn’t that caused a black market of used personal computers to avoid getting their own PC destroyed?” Netto asked.

“Uh, Netto, we don’t have a black market in our world or any kind here,” Mira informed.

“You don’t?”

“No, Netto, the reason why we don’t is because there wasn’t any reason to,” Rideman replied. “Black markets sell illegal goods and services, but they existed due to the government prohibiting them and/or to avoid paying taxes. After two Umbra Incidents and various government reforms, there was no need for one. Since various products and services were better quality and affordable on the main market there was no purpose for an underground one.”

“And the illegal products such as drugs?” Netto inquired.

“They were turned into something completely different and are safer to use during the Great Restoration Era,” Rideman informed. “The Elemental Matters helped a lot.”

“That’s pretty cool and interesting,” Netto commented. “To think the government holds that much power, one decision to ban a product or service could cause a black market to pop up.”

“Netto, there’s a saying when it comes to people with power and influence,” Crystalman interjected. “The more power you have, the more influence your decisions make to others whether good or bad.”

Netto knew how meaningful those words were. He had connections to powerful people like Enzan and Yaito and familial blood ties to Tadashi and Yuuichiro. Any decision he made affected those around him, especially those close to him. To think he had been so ignorant, but at the same time how painfully aware his loved ones are to help him in times of need. This could complicate things, he had to think about not only the safety of his old and new home but Universe C and D. Not to mention his role as Draco’s new vessel. This could complicate things, this wasn’t going easy to explain why he was alive and hadn’t aged much since he was declared dead five years ago. His newly gained powers were also a factor. They have no magic in Universe A and he was worried that he could be experimented on if he were to fall into the wrong hands.

Avatar looks worried about Netto, he has been overthinking and stressing out a lot lately. Maybe because he is nervous about the inevitable journey ahead. “Hey, Netto? Are you okay?”

“Huh, I’m fine. What is it?”

“Do you want to talk about it later?” Avatar asked, “You’ve been really stressed lately…”

“I’m okay,” Netto assured. “Don’t worry too much about it.”

“All right, I won’t force you but please remember to take care of yourself okay?” Avatar pleaded. “I don’t want you to be emotionally burned out before our big journey.”

“Promise, I’ll tell you soon.”

After being soothed of her worries, Avatar turns her attention back to Radioman and Amar. There seems to be tension between them. They don’t seem to be talking to each other only the other Navis. Amar seems ignorant while Radioman was too busy looking at the battle chip catalogue. Would their upcoming battle mend or break their friendship?

- Sofia Battle Stadium -

After everyone was finished at the chip shop, the other place of interest of the stadium. It reminds Netto of the Internet City Stadium back in his home dimensions. This facility was special since this is the only one that permits the use of Battle Chips.

“Hey, are battle chip use allowed outside of the stadium?” Netto asked.

“No, Netto, we are not allowed to use battle chips outside the stadium unless you have special permissions,” the cowboy Navi replied. “Is it the same as in your world?”

“Yeah, it’s the same,” Netto answered. “I had to get a special license to use battle chips when my home country’s central network was slowly being destroyed by viruses. So the same applies here…”

“Come on, I want to participate in the battles!” Delia insisted. “I wonder who my opponent would be locally or someone from an entirely new country.” 

Avatar was amazed at the inside stadium. Artificial plants that resemble the Rainbow Glory plants were like curtains draped over the walls to cover it like a cozy blanket. The stands were decorated with artificial tropical flowers like Strelitzia, hibiscus, orchids, and even flamingo flowers. They hang like an artwork of a beautiful summer garden. She sees several Navis on the stands, probably to spectate the battles.

“Look at the crowd!” Delia observed.

“Do you think that they are here to see the battles as well?” Reina added.

“Should we watch or participate?” Aithusa pondered.

“Hmph, I’m itching for a fight,” Tundraman answered. “Avatar, I want to see how much you match against me and my operator.”

“Looking forward to it,” Avatar acknowledged.

A huge screen pops up revealing Begonia’s face on screen. “Welcome, everyone! I’m glad to announce that the Battle Stadium is ready for public use!” Everyone cheered at her grand announcement. “Now, who will be the first two fighters to battle in the stadium?”

A hand is raised from Radioman. “I gladly volunteer to be the first one to battle on the stadium! And my opponent is you, Amar!” He declared, pointing at his opponent. “This time, Aeon and I will finally settle the score with you!”

“Oh, really? You think you could defeat us?” Amar boasted, “Please, you lost against us at least 30 times in a row! What makes you think that your 31^st attempt will be any different? Our newest battle is going to be broadcasted live across the country maybe the entire world. Are you ready for the world to laugh at your inevitable defeat?”

“Sorry, because the one that has their loss broadcasted live is you!” Radioman countered, “Aeon and I will finally beat your egotistical butts!”

“Bring it on!” Amar encouraged.

“Looks like the rivalry has started to flare up,” Begonia observed. “All right, our first battle in our stadium will be Radioman and his operator, Aeon Lyron against Amar and her operator, Isla Carina!” Everyone in the stadium cheered at the first battle being broadcast live.

“Don’t disappoint me, Radioman,” Amar commented.

“Don’t worry, we won’t,” Radioman added.

BATTLE START!

Radioman and Amar take their positions and fight.

“Battle Chip, Stone Cube, Fujin Racket *, Slot-in!” Aeon cried.

At least three stone cubes appear in front of the yellow and grey Navi.

“Wait, he’s not using his triple Rarapappa combo?” Amar observed.

“It doesn’t hurt to use a few new tricks up your sleeve!” Radioman smirked. His right arm morphed into the Fujin Racket and he conjures a big gust of wind. The strong winds push the stone cubes forward.

“Battle Chip, Area Steal!” Isla countered.

Amar quickly warps away just in time before the Stone Cubes collide.

“Damn, almost had her!” Aeon cursed.

“Time to bring out the Rarapappa Trio!” Radioman declared. He managed to pull off the combo once the Area Steal wore off. Amar was blindsided by the attack.

“Time for the Program Advance, Quake Triple Slot-in!”

“Beta Quake!” Radioman declared. Two Quake viruses appear, then four, and finally six. Amar took the last attack pretty hard.

“Guah!” Amar cried in pain.

“Amar!” Isla shouted. ‘To think that Aeon and Radioman improved this much, what did Netto teach them anyway? Surely it wasn’t just the Program Advance.’ “Recovery 300, Slot-in!”

Amar’s body glows and her wounds are fully healed. “It’s not over yet, Radioman. I’m just warming up.”

“Uh, oh, Amar’s got her sight back,” Radioman observed. “Her ability to recover faster from status aliments was always a pain.”

“Battle Chip, Metroid Earth * Slot-in!” Isla cried.

Amar summons a meteor shower which rains down upon Radioman’s side of the field.

“Battle Chip, MetGuard!” Aeon countered. He quickly inserts the chip before the rapid meteor barrage makes contact with his Navi’s body. Radioman was relieved for the quick shield that his operator sent earlier.

The MetGuard shield disappeared once Amar’s attack was done. The two opponents were glaring at each other, watching to see if the other would sleep.

“Wow, Amar and Radioman’s battle is really heating up,” Aithusa observed. “The two are very keen on making sure they don’t leave an opening.”

Avatar was silently observing on how intense and calculated their attacks were. Their operators were hyper-focused as well. All the participants were very determined and both didn’t want to lose. Will Amar win again or will Radioman finally get his well-deserved victory?

“Radioman and Amar are really given their all today,” Crystalman commented. “And on the big screen.”

“Hey, Crystalman, why do Radioman and Amar fight so fiercely?” Aithusa asked innocently.

“It’s because they are rivals,” Crystalman explained. “Rivals may get under your skin, aggravate you, and sometimes ruin your day but they push you to get better. They make you strive and make a better version of yourself.”

“Really, I never thought of that…” Aithusa asked. “I thought it was a bad thing to have rivals as that means that people don’t like you or something and want to make your life miserable.”

“Not all rivals are bad people,” Crystalman replied. “Rivals are people, too. Some just want you to improve so they can be at the same level as you. Maybe they’re just too proud to realize that they care about you. That’s what I’ve read from a psychology book that Savannah read a year ago.”

“Those types of books exist here?” Avatar pondered.

“Yeah, psychology books are pretty popular in our world,” Crystalman explained. “Considering our magic system.”

Avatar looks back at Radioman and Amar’s battle. A rival that will push you to be better. “Hey, Netto? Did you have any rivals back in your home world?”

“Of course, Enzan and Dekao,” Netto recollected. “Though I think Laika also fell into that category, but not too sure about that. Looking back Dekao was pretty underwhelming for a rival, Enzan was the better one. I never seem to win against him.”

“Was he that strong?”

“Of course,” Netto beamed. “His dedication to Net Battling is impeccable, I heard he spent endless hours with Blues to get to that level.”

“And how many hours is that?”

“I don’t know maybe 50 – 60 hours a week?”

“50 to 60 hours!” Avatar cried in disbelief, “I shouldn’t judge but that way too many hours for someone that is about the same age as you. Adults don’t even work that much in one week. If they did that for a long time then they drop dead from exhaustion.”

“I mean it’s normal in my culture,” Netto muttered. “Papa used to work long hours to provide for us. However, after my therapy sessions, I didn’t realize that type of ethic is unhealthy until Dr. Raphael pointed that out.”

“Still Netto, that is an unhealthy work ethic,” Avatar commented. “Was your father hospitalized?”

“A few times,” Netto replied. “It always happens when Papa is just working at his desk. Then the next moment he woke up in the hospital. That was very scary.”

“Yikes…” Avatar commented, “To experience your parent being hospitalized. I can’t imagine the trauma.”

“Yeah…”

Their attention was suddenly focused back on the battle after hearing Amar crying in pain when Radioman used a Flame Sword on her.

“Damn, looks like we need to use another Program Advance!” Isla cursed. “Battle Chip, Corn Shot, Triple Slot-in, Program Advance!”

“Corn Party*!” Amar cried. Her right arm transformed into the head of the Bomb Corn Virus. Random shots of corn shot out of the mouth and left behind some grass panels.

“Time for the perfect counterattack,” Radioman smirked. “Aeon, now!”

“Battle Chip, Flame Line, Triple Slot-in! Program Advance!” Aeon cried.

“Flame Line!” Radioman roared.

Two giant floating red arms appear and lay waste to Amar’s field by rapid punches. Their relentless assault did spawn Grass Panels but that only added more to the damage input. After the attack finished, Amar and her field were scorched. Her body was filled with various burns and scorch marks. The emergency log-out activated and she was forced to plug out.

“No way…” Isla cried in disbelief. “I lost!”

“Hah! In your face, Isla!” Aeon gloated, “Your loss was a long time coming. I can’t believe I finally won against you! Thanks, Netto, your training and other Net Battle tips helped out a lot! I owe you big time for that.”

“It was nothing,” Netto said abashed.

“Congratulations on your victory, Radioman,” Avatar congratulated.

“It’s all thanks to you and Netto,” Radioman beamed. “If it weren’t for your help, I didn’t think I would finally gain the upper hand on them. We owe one.”

- North Area [TDF District] -

“WINNER! Aeon Lyron and Radioman!” An announcer proclaimed.

“All right, I did it! I finally did it!” Aeon exulted. “Radioman and I finally defeated Isla and Amar!”

“I can’t believe it, I lost to Aeon! Aeon!?” Isla exclaimed, “I thought it would never happen. And on live TV!”

“Well, you deserved it,” Savannah babbled. “Ever since you became the ‘Number 1, Net Battler’ in our town. You sort of became a bit of a jerk.”

“Wait, what?!” Isla exclaimed in utter bewilderment.

“Think about it, Isla. When was the last time you actually battled against another opponent that wasn’t Aeon?” Draga asked, “I didn’t have Aithusa at the time, but I heard from the other kids that you were pretty arrogant when you beat them. Aeon was the only one that was consistently battling you.”

“Now that you mention it…” Isla ponders back to the last time she fought against another kid from her neighborhood. Amar decimated that kid’s Navi and that poor navigator didn’t even lay one hit on her. The operator didn’t fight against her for fear that his Navi would be deleted. Isla assumed he didn’t want to Net Battle against her because he and his Navi were too weak. In actuality, he didn’t want his Navi to be utterly deleted from Amar’s sheer strength. Words spread that Isla almost deleted his Navi no mercy and over time less children Net Battled with her. The only reason she didn’t stagnant was because Aeon and Radioman were keeping them on their toes. It was inevitable that Aeon would eventually surpass and defeat her. “Oh, I didn’t know that…Is that why?”

“I think it’s time for a celebration,” Angel suggested.

“You bet, my first-ever win against Isla. I finally ended my losing streak with her,” Aeon agreed. “Come on, let’s celebrate at the Chroma Juice Bar!” As most of the group exited the district, Netto noticed how dejected Isla was. Not only had she lost against her rival on live TV, but she was humiliated by her friends when they told her that she wasn’t as good as she thought.

“Hey, Isla-chan, you okay?”

“I just need some time alone, Netto,” Isla replied. “Man, it sucks to get your ego broken big time.”

“I understand that feeling…” Netto agreed, “My friends would always complain that I was too prideful, especially Meiru-chan, she would always call out on that behavior.”

“Really, you don’t seem the type to be boastful and arrogant,” Isla noted. “You seem like a humble albeit a bit quiet and anxious.”

“I’ve been through a lot…” Netto answered, “I had to get some therapy to cope with it you know…”

“Touché,” Isla acknowledged. “Going through the Process of Discovery Trial can take a lot out of you mentally.”

Just then Begonia approaches them out of nowhere. “Um, excuse me, are you Netto?”

“Ms. Begonia!” Isla recognized, “It’s an honor to meet you!”

“I’m flattered that there are people that recognize considering I’m a very low-profile person. Considering I’m part of the Aoki Family and that I’m responsible for successfully creating a space for NetNavis on the Internet, it is a given that I would recognized by someone.” Aoki reasoned, “But that is not the reason, I’m here. I want to talk to Netto.”

“Me?” Netto pointed.

“Of course, I was curious about your family history,” Begonia explained. “As you know, the special type of server was created from the Abner Hikari’s plans. I know that in our history, the last surviving Hikari was Akiyama.”

“We already know about that,” Isla acknowledged. “We recently visited Nikkōko and visited the Masato Library. We learned a lot of important families from the Great Restoration Era.” It was a little white lie since they were actually researching if there were any surviving members of Netto and his friends’ family lineages in this world. The Hikawa Family Clan was the only one that currently has surviving members.

“I see, I see…I don’t want to be rude but, but, but yes,” Begonia stammered. “I heard from Haru that your last name was Hikari, but the last one died 300 years ago. So…I was curious about where you are from. Are you perhaps part of an illegitimate family?”

‘Of course, Haru snitched,’ Isla thought, annoyed but not surprised by his actions. ‘No surprise.’

“Hey, I’m legitimate!” Netto argued, “I’m the grandson of Tadashi and son of Yuuichiro Hikari, my Papa!”

“Tadashi and Yuuichiro?” Begonia was confused; she had never heard of these names before.

“You don’t know, who they are?” Netto observed. “Wait, then that means…There’s no version of them in this world…”

“Version?”

“It’s a long story,” Isla answered. “But we are happy to answer all of your questions.”

“But Isla-chan, what about Aeon’s party at the Chroma Juice Bar?” Netto reminded.

Isla suddenly pulls Netto close to her side and they face away from Begonia. “Listen, Netto, I just got my ego bruised by Aeon and Radioman on live television and was told by the others that my attitude was horrendous after gaining a long winning streak. Do you that I would be in the mood to celebrate after suffering a humiliating blow like that?”

 “Did you see, Chroma Juice Bar?” Begonia overheard, “What a coincidence, I was heading there as well! I was going there to meet up with an old friend and some colleagues of mine. I would be happy to accompany you there.”

“But I don’t want to disappoint Aeon; I don’t want him to think that I ditched his celebration,” Netto muttered.

“Don’t worry,” Isla hissed. “We’ll just leave a message that we were with Begonia and we’ll attend the party later. It’s not every day we get to hang out with a very famous person.” The two turn around to face red red-haired woman. “Ms. Begonia, we’ll be happy if you join us at the juice bar.”

“Really, I’m honored!” Begonia beamed.

- East Area [Chroma Juice Bar (VIP Section)] -

When Begonia, Netto, and Isla enter the bar, the red-haired woman goes to the front counter and gives out her name and the reservation. Another employee escorts the trio to the VIP Section. Netto and Isla were amazed by this area’s interior; they heard rumors of how calm and relaxing it was compared to the normally colorful and chaotic energy of the regular booths. As Begonia led the duo toward her reserved section, Netto noticed that the VIP Section was divided into different sections. The bright neon colors from the lighting fixtures highlighted them. They stopped at the glowing blue section where Begonia’s old friend and colleagues were waiting for them. To Netto’s surprise, Dr. Cerys and Dr. Collier were among them.

“Netto? I didn’t know you were coming here,” Dr. Cerys commented.

“Actually, we were going to Aeon’s celebratory party to commemorate his victory but -”

“Begonia invited us so we can chat!” Isla interjected. “It’s not like we are purposely avoiding it or something.”

“Anyway, Dr. Cerys and Dr. Collier, thank you for coming!” Begonia thanked.

“The honor is ours,” Dr. Cerys smiled. “You know how long we have developed this project and successfully released it to the public? After our success with the Summer Bluma Server, we’ve been getting requests from across the country to create one for their own town or city. We even got offers internationally. I think we need a well-deserved celebration for this huge, historical celebration.”

“Yes, Akiyama and Abner’s dream is slowly coming true,” Begonia agreed. “It’s only a matter of time until the entire world is connected.”

“Just like grandpa…” Netto muttered. He looks up and Begonia’s friend looks familiar. Then he remembers the art director, Arthur Darius. “Hey, aren’t you that guy that was supposed to supervise Ms. Azami’s class? Mr. Darius?”

“You mean Arthur? Oh, he’s my younger brother,” the Darius look-a-like clarified. “Arthur is pretty passionate in the art. I am actually in the Computer Science field. I’m Alden* Darius.” Netto takes a closer look at Alden’s appearance. Instead of wearing construction clothes like Arthur's, he was wearing clothes that would be more suitable in a lab. A comfortable, green-collar sweater, dark denim jeans, and brown loaf shoes. His hair was styled differently as it was swept to the side. His chin was clearly shaven. However, he shared some facial similarities to Arthur.

“I can see the resemblance,” Netto observed.

Alden chuckles at Netto’s comment before continuing, “I am a good friend of Begonia, but furthermore I have questions pertaining to you.”

“Um, what type of questions?” Netto gulped, he didn’t like the look on Alden’s face.

“It’s about your origin,” Alden replied. “I heard from Dr. Cerys that you were found exiting an abandoned train station covered in injuries that were similar to a train explosion. The name, Hikari, is a very important name in the scientific community. They were the ones who worked hard to create our current Network but failed due to several circumstances. Akiyama was the last surviving member of the Hikari Family to attempt but failed as well. Begonia’s family was the one to carry and fulfill the Hikari bloodline’s wish. When I heard that a surviving member of that important family suddenly popped up, I was indeed curious.”

Netto felt very nervous as he felt all the adults’ eyes on him. He doesn’t like their stares scrutinizing him. He clutches his fists and his nails start to seep on his palms. If he clenched harder then blood would start to ooze.

Isla squeezes his right arm to ease him out of that behavior. “Netto? Are you okay, you seem tense?” she asked tenderly.

“Netto, it’s okay. They won’t harshly judge you,” Dr. Cerys assured. “We’re here.”

Netto took a few deep breaths and unclenched his fists. “What do you want to know about me?”

“Dr. Cerys already informed us about your condition,” Alden replied.

“And?”

“We are just curious about your true origin,” Begonia assured. “Come, you can and your friend can sit on the couch across from us.

“What about the other sections?”

“They are soundproof,” Alden answered.

After Netto and Isla took their seats, it took a while to persuade the bandana boy to spill the entire truth. He told them his family history and that he came from another world, particularly Universe A. He was transported to Universe B after being caught in a train explosion. In the first few weeks in this world, Draco came to his dream and Netto accepted his offer as his next Aaron in exchange for returning back to his home world. He took his Process of Discovery Trial, and gained his electric powers, but got Generalized Anxiety Disorder. He had to get therapy and got Avatar as a gift from Dr. Cerys excluding the Navi’s true origin.

“Oh, my, you seem to have it rough,” Begonia commented. “But this is very odd, it has been a long time since Draco chose a vessel from another world. The last time was before the first Umbra Incident. Why would he choose one now?”

“Well, he needs me to help save his sister,” Netto reasoned. “He has a feeling something bad has happened to her. Hey, maybe if I have dark powers I think I might be immune to dark energy. I haven’t tested it yet, but I believe I wouldn’t feel the negative effects.”

“Interesting…” Begonia noted, “Netto, I know we just me but I will assist you if you have any more questions about the Hikari Line in this world. My family was the one to keep the journals of the most prominent members.”

“You mean like Damien and Uriah?” Netto asked.

“Of course,” Begonia replied. “Akiyama entrusted my family to keep his family’s journals. We have already archived we can get from them.”

“Really, that’s so kind of you!” Netto beamed. “Oh, I forgot! Aeon-kun’s celebratory party!”  

“Relax, Netto. I sent Radioman and Aeon a message detailing your tardiness before we met up with Begonia’s group,” Avatar informed. “They didn’t seem too mad when they responded.”

“Wait, Netto! We should chat more with Ms. Begonia and the others,” Isla insisted.

“Actually, you can go to your friend’s party if you wish,” Alden chimed in.

“Eh, are you serious?!” Isla complained.

“Come on, Isla-chan! Let’s go!” Netto exulted. He grabs Isla’s wrist and they go back to the public area of the Chroma Juice Bar.

It wasn’t hard for Netto and Isla to find the section where Aeon’s celebratory party was taking place. The bright yellow banner with blue and orange colors was an easy giveaway. Netto was relieved that he was finally here, but Isla dreaded this moment. Her recent loss was recorded on live TV and she was told that she wasn’t as well-liked when she had an unbreakable winning streak.

“Netto, I’m glad you came!” Aeon beamed when he saw them. “I was worried that you weren’t going to show up. I know Avatar told you that Begonia invited you to go somewhere but still.”

“Sorry, Aeon, we got caught up with some important stuff,” Netto apologized. “Begonia actually invited us to the VIP Section.”

“Did you say the VIP Section,” Aeon gasped. “Netto, you’re so lucky! Not many people get into that private area. And you were invited by a famous person to boot. Getting a spot in that area could take years, not many people get to see the inside of it.”

“Well, it was pretty calm with bright colors…” Isla prattled.

“Anyway, Netto, let’s have a Net Battle again!” Aeon declared, “I want to see how I square up now against you and Avatar! Since I beat Isla, I want to see if I defeat you now!”

“You bet!” Netto agreed.

As both Aeon and Netto battled to their hearts’ content, Isla watched silently on the sidelines with the other children.

EXTRA: 

Aeon Lyron 

Radioman EXE

Isla Carina

Amar 'Amaranth' EXE

Aimi Tsubaki 

Dulcie

Chapter Text

Yesterday was very eventful yet fun. Net Battling with Aeon and Radioman was very exhilarating yet so exhausting. They have the potential to become great Net Battlers. However, Isla was still feeling down after her great defeat on live television. Netto was still surprised that the braided girl was still spotted around town. He would’ve stayed at home for at least a few weeks due to sheer embarrassment and shame.

How can Netto cheer up Isla today? He found a solution: spend some time with her! That way, she could get her mind off her devastating loss. It's a win–win solution. He takes it as a way to get to know Isla better, especially about her relationships with her siblings. 

- Carina Residence -

Netto was at the front door; he rang the doorbell and heard footsteps. The door opens to reveal Isla answering the door. She is surprised to see him here.

“Netto, what are you doing here today?” Isla asked.

“I just want to hang out with you today,” Netto replied. “You were really upset about your loss today, so I thought I would come to cheer you up.”

“Oh, Netto…That is so thoughtful of you!” Isla beamed. Come on, I’ll treat you to some sweets we brought from our Nikkōkion Trip!” She quickly grabbed her wrist and closed the door. After Netto took a seat on the living room couch, Isla rushed towards the kitchen to look for them. While Netto was waiting, he heard Isla’s sisters coming down the stairs.

“Oh, Netto! I didn’t know you were coming to visit,” Malosi observed.

“I just came to check on her,” Netto revealed. “I wanted to lift her spirits off.”

“Oh~! Are you trying to get with my sister?” Lani teased, “Asking for a date?” She was cut off guard when Isla hit her with a light head chop. “Ow!” The youngest sister rubs her head.  

“Knock it off, Lani,” Isla argued. “I don’t like Netto that way! Anyway, got the treats!”

Lani looks at the silver platter full of sweets and some savory treats. Most were from their Nikkōkion trip, but she paled when she saw a few familiar treats. “Hey, that’s my strawberry and Matcha cake! And my lemon – lime slice gummies!” she wailed, “I was going to eat them!”

“Lani, you said that a few days ago, but you haven’t touched them,” Isla pointed out. “I thought sharing them with our guest would be better. Don’t want them to go to waste.”

“You are so mean!” Lani puffed in anger, “I was going to eat them, eventually.”

“Yeah, right,” Isla doubted. She places the silver platter of treats onto the table. Netto happily takes one Dorayaki* and takes a bite. The mixture of honey and sweet red beans hits his taste buds.

“Hey, Isla, Malosi, and Lani, do you three get along?”

“Well, yeah, we’re sisters,” Lani proudly beamed.

“It’s just, Isla barely mentions you two,” Netto prattled.

“Oh, really? How so,” Malosi inquired.

“I thought you three don’t get along so…”

“Don’t be silly!” Isla deflected, “We are close but we do annoy and tease each other occasionally. Typical sibling behavior. I mean I don’t talk badly about my siblings’ appearances when they’re not looking.”

“Now that you mention it, Malosi and Lani do look different,” Netto acknowledged.

Malosi was wearing an entirely different attire. Her denim, sleeveless jacket, and shorts were replaced with an azure blue jacket and dark denim ones. Her new tee shirt greatly resembles her old one only there were black seeds on the white part. Her white socks with purple and yellow stripes were swapped with white no-show ones, but can still be seen from the toe area.

Lani’s hair was fully dyed in different shades of green that resembled a kiwi but her eyebrows remained black. Additionally, black seed hairclips enhance the look. Her clothes were slightly different with a new pink shirt, purple overalls, and green shoes. However, she kept her ribbons with the lime symbol. Her new overalls also donned the same on the chest pocket.

“Do you like it?” Lani asked, “I got my hair professionally dyed at a hair salon. My old one was actually my attempt to dye my hair halfway. It was well worth it as reminds me of a kiwi fruit. My new hairclips complement it as well!”

‘Reminds me of a watermelon though…’ Netto mentally observed. His attention turns to Malosi, “And Malosi? What about your new look?”

“Older sis is a fashionista,” Isla quipped. “She would change her outfit every other day, depending on her mood.”

“I see, so Malosi are you friends with Briana?” Netto asked, “Because she likes fashion as well!”

“Of course, but I don’t hang out with her much due to my part-time job at a local tailor shop,” Malosi replied. “I’m trying to earn extra money to buy some fabrics to make some custom clothes. Well-known, high-brand clothes are beautiful, but I believe custom clothes have their unique charm.”

“True though certain fabrics can be pretty expensive,” Isla noted. “There was one floral fabric that was pretty pricey. Malosi had to pull extra shifts to afford that.”

“Is that what your family dynamic is like?” Netto commented, “I know that growing up with siblings is very different than growing up alone. My friend, Dekao has a younger brother named Chisao. Although it was slightly different since they don’t live together.”

“I mean there is an obvious difference between growing up alone and growing up with siblings,” Isla acknowledged. “Do you ever feel lonely?”

“A little bit, but Mama and my friends keep me company,” Netto answered. “Though I did have a surrogate sibling in terms of Rockman. It’s not the same as a human sibling but I still treat him as family.”

“And me, Netto?” Avatar interjected. Her small hologram was on his shoulder.

“You’re part of my family, too, Avatar!” Netto beamingly replied. That reply made Avatar’s core warm.

“Hey, why don’t we all go out?” Lani suggested, “It could be a fun bonding experience for everyone!”

“Great idea, Lani,” Malosi agreed. “I do need to go fabric shopping. They have a sale at Strelitzia Mall. We should get going so the good ones don’t go out of stock.”

“Seriously, Lani do you want to do something else at the mall?” Netto asked.

“Let me think,” Lani pondered. “Nope, nothing at the moment.”

Netto sighs in disappointment, he did not want to carry all the bags if the girls decided to go shopping.

Avatar makes a sympathetic smile at her operator; she can understand why he doesn’t want to carry a lot of bags. They were pretty heavy.

- East Area [Strelitzia Mall (Sterling Fabrics)] -

Netto’s eyes were greeted by a vast selection of different fabrics. Most were displayed inside of rolls while others were folded. The fabrics range from bright colors with eye-catching patterns such as gingham, floral, and even popular cartoon characters to dark colors with rough textures.

“Welcome!” an elderly lady greeted. Her white hair was tied into a tight bun but her pink eyes held a lot of wisdom. She wore a simple lavender sweater under her white, sunflower-patterned apron, yellow pencil skirt, purple jeans, and white slippers. “Oh, Malosi, Lani, and Isla, welcome! It’s been a long time since you last visited.”

“Sorry, Grandma Pinku,” Malosi apologized. “I’ve been busy with my part-time job at the tailor shop, so I haven’t come as often as before.”

“No worries, I understand what working at a tailor shop is like,” Grandma Pinku sympathized. Her eyes then fell on Netto. “Oh, you must be Netto. Natsu has mentioned a lot about you.”

“Wait, you’re Natsu’s grandmother!” Netto realized.

“That’s right! Where do you think she got her sewing hobby from? So do you need some fabrics?”

“Not at the moment…”

Netto then hears the door open behind him and notices that Briana and Natsu entering. “Briana, Natsu-chan!”

“Oh, Natsu and Briana!” Grandma Pinku beamed, “Welcome! Natsu, you should come by the store more often! I know you are busy with your books but it wouldn’t hurt to go out often.”

“Sorry, Grandma…” Natsu apologized.

“So, Briana, are you here to buy some fabrics today?” Grandma Pinku deflected.

“Of course!” Briana beamed. She takes out a list and hands it to the owner. “Do you have these fabrics in stock? I want to buy them to create and complete a new pair of clothes I’m designing.”

“Of course, dear. I’ll be right back,” Grandma Pinku then heads to the store room to check the stock.

“Do you want to see the store room?” Natsu asked. “My grandmother has a lot more fabrics at the back.”

“Is it okay? I don’t think we should bother her when she’s working…” Netto doubted.

“Don’t worry, she will allow us in the back since we are friends,” Natsu assured.

- Sterling Fabrics Storeroom -

Netto was amazed at how big this room was. It was thrice the size of the regular store. Boxes and big rolls of fabric line up the walls. “Wow! You can actually climb these big stacks of boxes?”

“Of course, I would help grandma by climbing up these boxes to get the materials we need to deliver to our customers,” Natsu explained. “Here, let me show you!” Her left foot was on a box when her grandmother’s loud voice stopped her.

“Don’t you dare,” Grandma Pinku scolded, “Natsu may I remind you the thousand times you climbed on these boxes? You fell, got hurt, and fabrics were flying everywhere. Goodness, the countless messes that I had to clean up.”

Everyone was startled by the elder Pinku’s stern words as she came up carrying Briana’s requested items.

“S-s-sorry, Grandma,” Natsu stammered. 

“Come on, let’s head back to the shop,” Grandma Pinku instructed.

- Frida Café -

Netto sighs in relief as he leans back on his chair. “Those bags full of fabric were heavy…” he bemoaned. He readjusts himself in the chair and looks at the shared table of him and the other girls. The pink table was a combination of two smaller ones so everyone could sit together. The brown, bistro chairs were small but had comfortable beige cushions. He takes a bite from his New York Cheesecake as he listens to the girls’ conversation.

“So, Briana, what new piece of clothing are you going to make?” Malosi started.

“A new dress,” Briana replied. She takes out her sketchbook and shows her newest creation that she is going to make.

“Wait a minute, is that a hanbok*?” Malosi recognized, “It is very popular and part of the culture of Calliope Ki*.”

“Yeah, I thought it would be cool to make one,” Briana replied. “Though since this is my first time making one, making a simpler one would be easier for me. See the top is white, while the ribbons are blue and the long skirt is pink. I was thinking of adding some flowers to it.”

Malosi examines the paper more closely. “It looks very pretty and elegant, so when are you going to start on it?”

“In a few days, I just need to make sure I got all the materials before I get started,” Briana replied.

“That sounds great, tell me when you’re done with it,” Malosi commented.

“So, Lani, how is your personal NetNavi design going?” Briana asked. “I heard that you wanted to Navi because of Isla?”

Isla puffed with a sense of pride. ‘My little sister is following in my footsteps.”

“Here’s her design!” Lani beamed, proudly showing her design to the others.

The drawing was a female Navi with slices of lime and a sharp leaf sticking out of her yellow helmet. Her dress-like armor was separated into three colors (yellow for the upper chest, lime green for the stomach area, and green for the skirt) and a belt with lemon slices on it. Orange and green gloves and boots with lemon slices pattern. Her insignia was the same as from Lani’s bows and overalls.

“Wow, that’s pretty cool, Lani!” Netto complimented.

“The colors are very bright and appealing,” Briana added. “Choosing orange, yellow, and green are very good choices.”

“Are you going to find a specialist to create your NetNavi?” Netto interjected, “We could submit it to Dr. Cerys and she will create her for you. Does your Navi have a name?”

“Yeah, her name is Limon!” Lani replied, “Though it may take a while for her to get created. I was hoping until Draga’s auntie wasn’t so busy with work.”

“Yeah, Dr. Cerys has been super busy lately,” Netto acknowledged. “Ever since the successful release of the public central network, Summer Bluma, and her team have been getting plenty of offers from international countries to create their own central network. After the network’s launch, it was constantly at risk of crashing due to so many Navis visiting it at once. They recently put restrictions to avoid a fatal server failure but that has caused public backlash. To address it, Begonia-san and her team have offered to create a brand new Network which will be released on Avril Denka’s Internet by the end of summer.”

“Really? That soon?” Isla asked.

“Yeah, Dr. Cerys said that Begonia-san and her team were releasing the local version first. After that, they’ll release the international version,” Netto replied. “I heard it is much bigger than the one we have in Beach Flora Town and can handle visits from people around the world. It’s a shame, I wouldn’t be able to attend the grand opening.”

“Hey, why don’t we visit Aurelius Park?” Isla suggested, “I want to show you all some new skating tricks I learned online,” Isla answered.

- Aurelius Park -

Isla clips her green and neon purple roller skates onto the soles of her shoes. She looks up at her audience, her two sisters, Netto and Briana. “Everyone, check out my new moves! First the Triple Axel!” She skates down a slope, steps to her left, and jumps into the air. She spins three times and lands to her right. “Next, the Triple Loop!” She steps to her right, leaps, spins thrice airborne again, and lands gracefully to her right. “Finally, the Triple Sow Cow!” She confidently takes off as she jumps, whirls three times, and lands on her right. However, she stumbles a bit as she miscalculates the landing. Isla maneuvers her legs and adjusts her posture, so she doesn’t fall. She felt immense relief that she didn’t hit the pavement. Everyone applauds her performance.

“That was so cool, Isla!” Lani praised.

“Bravo, Isla! Bravo,” Malosi added.

“Hey, Isla-chan, did you watch some ice skating videos?”

“Yeah, I learned them online. How did you know?” Isla replied.

“My friend, Tohru Hikawa would take ice skating lessons on top of his violin lessons,” Netto replied.

“Wow, your friend must have a busy schedule,” Isla commented.

“Yeah, we rarely hang out because of that,” Netto replied.

“Hey, Netto. Thanks for spending time with me, I really appreciate that.” Isla thanked, “It kind of got me out of that loser stupor.”

“No problem, Isla,” Netto beamed. “I also get frustrated when I lose, but I get over it after a long time. Sometimes it’s better to learn and let go rather than hold onto it.”

Isla silently agrees and looks up at the sky; she notices that the sun is starting to set. “Oh, shoot. Sorry, Netto, but we have to go. It’s getting late.”

“See ya, Netto!” Lani beamed.

“Bye, Netto, it’s been a fun day. Hope, we hang out more often,” Malosi added.

“I should get going as well,” Briana noted. “I have a project to complete.”

“Bye, everyone!” Netto waves goodbye as everyone separates and departs back to their separate home to rest. He felt satisfied as Isla seemed happier today, spending time with others.

Chapter Text

It was a serene spring night as Stacy was happily reading Nevermore, a well-regarded book by horror enthusiasts. The sound of chirping birds can be heard during the late hours of the night. She was halfway done with her book when she heard knocking on her bedroom door.

Knock! Knock! “Stacy, can I come in?” Bulleta requested. Her voice came from behind the door, chiming through the silence of the night.

The green-haired girl puts down her book on her desk and gets up from her comfy chair to open the door. Bulleta enters without her white trench coat, scarf, sword, and gun. Her goggles were still on her head.

“Bulleta, did you need something?” Stacy asked.

“Just hear to chat,” Bulleta replied. “It’s not unusual for you to be staying up until 4 AM. Are you finished with your book? Nevermore, the one that Natsu gifted you?”

“Yeah, I enjoy it. The pacing is pretty good despite its short length,” Stacy replied. “You don’t need a lengthy novel to enjoy a story.

“True, how’s your personal project going?” Bulleta deflected. “The creation of your new NetNavi? You have been working on her design for a while now.” She looks over to her friend’s recent design. The NetNavi was wearing a skull mask with a blue, five-pointed star and glowing green eyes behind those big sockets. A green flame resembling a ponytail at the back of the helmet. Her black and torn armor with green highlights and the bony lavender gloves and boots reminded Bulleta of an undead magician. The insignia was a blue, five-pointed star on a black background. The border ring was dark green.

“Yeah, the design is finished. I need to get started on the programming,” Stacy replied.

Bulleta notices that amongst the messy pile of books with themes of death were manuals that touch on NetNavi creation. The dual-pigtailed girl picks up one of the books titled ‘NetNavi Creation for Dummies' and skims through the contents.

“These seem like very complex subjects, Stacy,” Bulleta commented. “Wouldn’t it be easier to have Dr. Cerys create your Navi instead?”

“No, Dr. Cerys has been swamped with work recently. Due to the recent success of Summer Bluma Network, a lot of countries have been requesting a central network from her team,” Stacy replied. “It would be nearly impossible for her to complete my Navi before our trip.”

“I know Mira and Nikkōko are requesting them?” Bulleta asked.

“Yup, every country around their world wants their own network for Navis to roam around,” Stacy answered. “I’ve heard it from Draga, Angel, and Netto.”

“So, where do you want to hang out tomorrow?” Bulleta deflected.

“How about the local cemetery?” Stacy suggested.

“Sure, usual spot,” Bulleta agreed.

- West Area [Cerys Residence (Netto’s Room)] -

Netto was happily doodling on his tablet while glancing over the papers on what the newest iteration of the Battle Router needs improvements on. Avatar was just sitting on his bed, quietly observing his drawing. The brunette leans back on his chair and stretches his arms. “*yawn* I’m bored,” Netto said.

“Do you want to take a break?” Avatar asked.

“Yeah, I was thinking of going on a walk or something,” Netto pondered. “I know, how about visiting the friends I rarely hang out with? I have been visiting Ruby, Frost, Isla, and Aeon often but not the others like Bulleta and Henshin.”

“Well, who do you want to visit today?”

“Bulleta-chan,” Netto happily answered, “She has been helping me a lot with combat and utilizing my weapons, so I thought hanging out would deepen our bond. We are on the same team.”

“Speaking of team, what is the name of your team?”

“Um, Draga hasn’t decided yet,” Netto replied. “But I think it will be finalized before our journey.”

“I see, so what about Stacy?” Avatar deflected, “She is close with Bulleta.”

“About her, well they are pretty close. I heard that they had rough pasts growing up,” Netto answered. “But both of them are currently living with Bulleta’s uncle and seem to be happy.”

“If you are curious about their past, you should visit and ask,” Avatar suggested. “You are getting close to them, so I’m sure they’ll open up to you about their shared past.”

“I guess but where do they usually hang out?” Netto asked, “I guess we can visit Felica’s uncle’s weapon shop.”

- East Area [Warrior Wares Shop] -

“Huh, you’re looking for Bulleta and Stacy?” Felica asked.

“Yeah, I just want to spend time with them!” Netto replied, “I thought they would be in your uncle’s shop, but I don’t see them here. Do you know where they went?”

“Hey, Avatar!” Aala greeted. “How’s it going?”

“Fine, I guess,” Avatar replied casually, “How are things going with Cyndi?”

“We’re getting along,” Cyndi replied. “Still getting used to sharing an operator.”

‘That’s good,’ Avatar mentally noted. ‘I thought there would be more fights, Felica is making sure they get along.’

“Where would Bulleta and Stacy hang out? Oh, that’s easy, the local cemetery.”

“Wait, cemetery?!” Netto said in disbelief, “That’s a weird place to hang out.”

“It’s true,” Aala confirmed, “Cyndi and I learned that strange tidbit from Felica.”

“If that’s the case then what’s the name of the local cemetery and where is it located?”

“Carnation,” Felica answered, “It is located at South Area.”

“Wait, it’s in the South Area? Then how come I never seen it before?” Netto pondered, “I’ve always practiced and trained there but never seen the place.”

“That’s because it’s pretty far,” Felica answered. “It takes at least a thirty-minute walk if you come from Tranquil Park.”

“Is there a faster way to get there?” Netto asked.

“Sure, we’ll just take Uncle’s golf cart,” Felica offered.

“Golf cart? Why does your uncle have that?” Netto asked.

“Oh, he goes golfing with his friends once a month,” Felica answered. “I would occasionally take it if Bulleta and/or Stacy want to visit the cemetery.”

“There’s no roads to that area?”

“There are but the South Area is pretty much the least developed area,” Felica explained. “Mostly forest areas and caves. It’s mostly a rural area. The only time people come here is to train or respect the dead.”

“Do you know the fastest route there?” Netto asked.

“Sure, I should give you the directions to that place,” Felica noted. She requests Aala to send the map data to Netto’s PET and Avatar receives it.

“Come on, to the golf cart!” Felica beamed.

After getting permission from her uncle, Felica and Netto head toward South Area’s cemetery.

- South Area [Carnation Cemetery] -

The bricked cemetery, entrance gate was decorated in carnation flowers hence the name. The small flowers came in colors of white, dark red, and pink, making a beautiful presentation to a morbid place. Bulleta and Stacy enter the cemetery. Bulleta was wearing her white trench coat, purple scarf, sword, and gun. Stacy was carrying some white lilies.

They pass by many graves until they come to one that is recently well-kempt and two burnt-out, vanilla candles placed on top. Stacy leaves the lilies in front of the gravestone.

Georgia Macabre

Born July 15 – Died October 9

A strong matriarch that left an everlasting legacy. A beloved sister, mother, and grandmother.

“You know, we’ve been visiting your grandmother’s grave ever since we first met,” Bulleta commented. “In fact, we first met at this exact grave.”

“Yes, I remember that time pretty fondly,” Stacy wistfully recalled.

“There you guys are!” Felica cried.

“Felica, Netto? What are you two doing here?”

“We came to find you,” Felica replied.

“But why?” Stacy asked.

“I wanted to hang out with Bulleta-chan, but couldn’t find where she usually goes,” Netto replied. “I was surprised that you would spend time at a cemetery.”

“I’m just visiting grandma,” Stacy replied.

Netto notices the grave that Bulleta and Stacy are sitting in front of. “You’re visiting your grandmother?”

“Yes, I know she’s gone but I just come here to pay respects,” Stacy added.

“It’s where Stacy and I first met each other,” Bulleta commented.

“You met at a cemetery?” Netto asked confused. “That’s a weird first meeting.”

“It may be a weird coincidence, but I believe my grandmother wanted someone to look after me once she was gone,” Stacy reasoned. “She did take good care of me when my mother was very busy and tired from work.”

“Man, Stacy, that must have been a rough time when your grandma died,” Felica commented. “I can’t imagine the pain.”

“Yeah…” Stacy acknowledged.

This reminded him of the vision of his family and friends at his grave. It was a very tragic sight. He can’t imagine the grief that Rockman and his parents are going through. He wonders if anyone was visiting his tombstone when he was gone. “So, Bulleta-chan, how did you and Stacy’s first meeting go?”

“Well, Netto, Felica, you two should take a seat. It’s going to be a long story,” Stacy noted. Both Netto and Felica sat on the grass, their Navis sitting on their shoulders to listen in.

- Flashback -

The loose gravel crunched under Bulleta’s worn lavender shoes. She was done with her latest mission and was paid quite nicely. She deducts that she would live off it for several days with careful planning. The alleyways seem scary to most but it was strangely comforting to Bulleta. It gave her some solace.

She decided to wander around the South Area for a bit to relax, and for some reason, she accidently stumbled upon Carnation Cemetery. She squinted her eyes and saw someone sitting on a grave, but they were too far away for Bulleta to see. Out of curiosity, she decides to see who it is and what grave they’re visiting. Adjusting her ragged purple hoodie, she quietly enters the silent gravesite. The grass trampled underneath her soles, and her ears picked up the faint chirping of birds. As she gets closer, she can easily tell that it is a girl.

The girl looked up and was shocked that Bulleta was there. Bulleta takes a closer examination of her appearance, auburn hair, pale skin, and lavender eyes. By how young she looks, Bulleta deducts a year younger than the mercenary. Her clothes were a black and white frilly dress with bows, laced white knee socks with black ribbons, and black Mary Jane Shoes. There were even white bows tied into her hair.

“Who, who are you?” the girl stammered.

“I’m Bulleta,” Bulleta answered. “And your name?”

“Stacy, Stacy Macabre,” Stacy replied.

“Are you here to visit a relative?”

“Yes, my grandma. Her funeral was 8 months ago.”

“Oh, I’m sorry about that.”

“It’s fine…”

“You don’t look fine.”

Stacy felt offended but who should she vent to? She was visiting her grandmother's grave alone and here she was talking to a stranger. Bulleta decides to sit next to her, adjusting her white belt and dagger holster, and sits beside Stacy.

“Was your grandmother very important to you?” Bulleta asked, “Were you two close?”

“Of course, she took good care of me when mom couldn’t,” Stacy replied. “Things have been tough, there were times that mom didn’t come home and I had to eat what was left in the fridge.”

“That rough, I wish I could help with your situation but I’ve fallen on rough times as well,” Bulleta commented. “I don’t have a permanent home either.”

“You are an orphan?” Stacy asked.

“I think so,” Bulleta replied. “No one has come to claim me yet.”

“I thought I have it rough but you have it even rougher.”

“Eh, it’s whatever, nothing I can control,” Bulleta shrugged.

The two girls keep chatting away, sharing each other’s experiences. The pain of grief from Stacy and Bulleta’s pain of loneliness slowly diminishes.

- Flashback ends -

“So, you become friends after sharing about your pain?” Netto asked.

“Yeah, even though it wasn’t the same, it was nice to share it with someone,” Stacy replied.

“Pretty weird way to start a friendship, I guess,” Felica replied.

“It’s all in the past,” Bulleta noted. “I found out that I had a surviving uncle and he took me in. I didn’t have to worry about necessities. Stacy came to live with me a short time later when her mother was unable to provide for her anymore.”

“I didn’t know your life was that bad, Bulleta-chan,” Netto replied. “To think that there are people that live such harsh lives.”

“Hey, Netto, it’s all right,” Bulleta replied. “Stacy and I may have rough pasts and upbringings, but that gives you the motivation to move forward and hope for a better future.”

Netto agreed with Bulleta’s words.

They stayed silent for a bit to enjoy the tranquil ambiance that surrounded the cemetery such as the leaves rattling and the birds chirping.

- Assaina Residence -

After visiting Stacy’s grandmother’s grave, Felica took the group back to Bulleta’s home on her uncle’s golf cart. They parked at the front and Netto was impressed by the exterior. It was pretty big compared to his two-story home. It was a gothic-styled house with black roofs and purple-bricked walls that looked recently painted. “Whoa, Bulleta, your house looks pretty big and cool!” Netto commented.

“You should see the inside,” Bulleta added. She gets out her gate key and opens the front yard fence for her and her friends to enter.

The interior was purple and white striped with some black leather and vintage, dark wood furniture. But what caught Netto off-guard was the blatant display of weapons hanging on the walls such as swords, guns, knives, and even some explosives. “Um, these aren’t real weapons are they?”

“Psh, no,” Bulleta replied. “Uncle is not dumb enough to showcase them even if guests are coming over. The real ones are in his study.”

“Stacy, you’re currently staying with them right?” Netto asked. “Where’s your room?”

“Down the hall,” Stacy answered. “I’ll show you where it is.” She leads the group to a black door with a skull and crossbones sign on it. The words ‘Keep Out’ and ‘Do Not Enter without Permission’ were spelled with fake bones.

- Stacy’s Room -

The interior was mostly black and white with some green and purple accents. It gave the room a very monotone and defined look. The pictures on the black and white striped walls were either wilted plants or birds like ravens or crows. It looked impressive, the problem was that there was not enough color. It felt pretty gloomy. He takes a look around and sees a black table with flowers showcased inside glass cases. Most of them looked well-kempt like the orchids and the roses, but his eye caught a Spider Lily.

“Hey, Stacy, where did you get this flower? This is usually grown during the late fall.”

“Oh, that’s a fake,” Stacy replied. “The real one is pretty hard to maintain so an imitation was suitable.”

Netto was confused but took a closer look at the red flower. Just as Stacy said, he could see a glossy sheen on it. He wonders if the other flowers are fake. He notes that those with a glossy sheen were the fakes. He glances at her messy desk and notices a NetNavi design and some books detailing the basics of programming emotions. “Stacy, you’re making a custom Navi?”

“Well, I’m trying to,” Stacy answered. “It is pretty difficult to make one as a beginner. Not to mention that the core is the hardest part. It is not easy trying to create sentience considering how complex it is.”

“Leave it to me,” Netto assured. “I’m working with Dr. Cerys and have gotten to know her team. Since she is so busy with creating more central networks from around the world, they have hired more staff due to the increasing funding and demand. I heard one of the newly hired employees is a talented NetNavi Designer. I think her name was Azalea? She’ll be easy to identify since she always wears an azalea hairclip.”

“Is she currently busy?” Stacy asked.

“Nope, she rarely gets any orders due to her status as a new employee, but her work is pretty good,” Netto explained. “When you see her designs, they could rival the most talented experts.”

The group suddenly hears a male voice from the living room.

“Bulleta, Stacy! I’m home!”

“Uncle,” Bulleta beamed. She runs out of the room which catches Netto off-guard. This was the first time he had seen her this happy before. Her uncle must be very important to her.

- First Floor, Living Room -

In the first-floor living room, Netto was hugging a man with short black hair and dark brown eyes. His clothes were mostly black with a trench coat that had a hood and comfortable combat shoes. “Hey, Bulleta.” He greeted as he returned his niece’s hug. “How’s my favorite niece doing?”  

“Just showing a new friend around the house,” Bulleta replied.

He looks up and glances at Netto. The brunette felt intimidated by his gaze.

“Don’t worry about me,” Bulleta’s uncle assured. “You’re Netto, right? I’ve heard about you from Bulleta and Stacy.”

“Yes, sir! I’m Netto Hikari!” Netto quickly answered with a bow, “And you’re Bulleta’s Uncle, um…”

“You can call me, Uncle Onyx.”

But I thought you’re real name is Duncan,” Stacy prattled. “Isn’t Onyx you’re code name?”

“That name is cooler than the legal one,” Onyx argued. “Anyway, nice to meet you, Netto.”

“Hey, Uncle Onyx, I want to show you my new NetNavis!” Felica interjected. Aala and Cyndi appear on her shoulders.

Onyx was interested in the two Navis, this was the first time he met an operator with two Navis. Aala was unnerved by his demeanor and aura, but Cyndi was quite admired for his appearance and cool posture.

“N-nice to meet you, Onyx, sir,” Aala greeted, “I’m Aala!”

“Nice to meet you, Onyx! I’m Cyndi,” Cyndi beamed.

“Nice to meet you, Aala and Cyndi,” Onyx repeated. “Now that the introductions of new friends are done, what do you want for dinner? There’s still a lot of food in the fridge.”

“Fried chicken!” Bulleta suggested.

“No way, stir-fry vegetables,” Stacy argued.

“How about both since we have guests?” Onyx compromised. He puts away his trench coat on a nearby coat hanger before going to his room to dress in his home clothes. When he came back, he was wearing a simple black tee shirt and some comfy grey sweatpants. “I’ll start cooking, you can wait in the dining room.” As he goes into the kitchen to cook, the group head to the dining room which is to the right side of the living room.

Netto was impressed by the intricate details of the vintage Gothic furniture. The black drawers, cabinets, tables, chairs, and even the chandeliers were elegantly detailed. He notices that two of the chairs have purple and green cushions, unlike the white ones. He guessed that there were Bulleta and Stacy’s.

“So, Bulleta-chan and Stacy-chan, how long have you been friends?” Netto asked.

“About five years,” Bulleta answered. “After Stacy and I met in the cemetery, I got the news that a relative had been found. He was a brother of my deceased mother and gladly took me in. Apparently, they were estranged since my mother did not want to get into the family business of assassins and mercenaries. Ironically, I became one after their death. However, ever since I was taken in by my uncle, I didn’t have to worry about food, water, and finding a place to sleep. I even got the chance to attend school. But even though, my living conditions improved, I never forgot my survival skills.”

“A year later, someone reported my mother to child services and noticed my malnourished state,” Stacy continued. “Because of that, I had to be taken away to a care facility to be treated. There was a trial and my mother was deemed unfit to care for me. Since my other relatives were unable to take care of me due to various circumstances, Bulleta and Uncle Onyx were the ones to take me in. The court agreed with this outcome and gave Uncle Onyx custody. Mother had to pay some fines that ended her in debt. After that, I don’t know what happened to her.”

Everyone felt silent after Bulleta and Stacy spilled about their dark past. But there was a loose end that Stacy didn’t talk about.

“Wait, Stacy, what about your father?” Netto asked, “You mention him but you never tell us much about him since he wasn’t in your life.”

“You see, my father and mother didn’t actually marry when I was born,” Stacy replied. “When I was taken in by the authorities, they tracked down my father, but he married another woman and had kids in another country. Four kids to be exact, half-siblings of mine. It was for the best that I was taken in by Uncle Onyx and Bulleta. So legally, I’m his adopted daughter.”

“That’s good,” Netto said relieved that at least Bulleta and Stacy got their happy ending.

“Food is ready!” Uncle Onyx announced. He puts down a platter of fried chicken, a pot of stir-fried vegetables, and a bowl of rice.

“That looks good, Uncle Onyx,” Felica added.

“Itadakimasu!” Netto happily grabs a huge serving of vegetables, fried chicken, and rice. Avatar readily agrees with Felica’s comment and Netto’s enthusiastic face. Those dishes do look delicious. She wonders what flavors they would offer if she took a bite. Would they be savory, spicy, or too greasy? Netto happily savored every bite with each dish. He seems to enjoy the food that Uncle Onyx cooked.

“Netto, what does the food taste like?” Avatar asked.

“Everything is pretty savory except the rice,” Netto explained. “I like how fresh the vegetables are. The mushrooms are the best! The fried chicken’s skin is very crispy and the meat was juicy.”

“Well, I’m glad that you liked my cooking,” Onyx thanked. “It took trial and error to make the fried chicken tasty.”

- Bulleta’s Room -

After dinner, Bulleta invited everyone to her room. Unlike Stacy’s black and white monotone room, Bulleta’s was a pleasant purple in different shades. The elaborate carvings of the dark wood furniture were a great contrast. Netto sees some weapons on display, thankfully they are safely stored and locked behind a secure cabinet. He could see them behind the safety of the glass window. The brunette noticed that there wasn’t much stuff lying around. Just a desk and a chest. Giving the illusion that the place is more spacious. He turns his attention to her desk and sees a stack of untouched model kits.

“Oh, Bulleta-chan, I didn’t know you were a model kit enthusiastic!” Netto observed. He grabs the top one from the pile and looks at the text. “Oh, you bought this one from Agawa?”

“Yeah, I thought they looked nice,” Bulleta replied. “I was so busy with training and other things, I didn’t have to time to take them out of the box and construct them.”

“Why don’t we start with the new ones?” Netto suggested. “They’re on the top so…”

“Sure,” Bulleta agreed. “You can start with one you’re holding.” Netto sits on Bulleta’s desk and puts the stack aside. He carefully opens the box with a box cutter knife and it slides open to reveal few plastic bags containing a grid of different parts in a variety of colors. Netto chooses the black one, after tearing open the plastic bag.

“Do you have any clippers?” Netto asked.

“Here,” Bulleta offered. She gives him a small set of lavender clippers.

Netto grabs a piece of paper that shows the instructions on how to properly construct the model.

“Could you assemble it without learning the language?” Stacy asked. “I would have trouble reading it.”

“You can, the pictures are big enough so you can visually learn to assemble it,” Netto explained. “Plus each grid is in a different color and labeled with a number accompanied by a letter. For example, the purple one I’m holding is labeled 3. So every piece with this grid is accompanied by a letter. The challenging part is trying not to lose the smaller parts. I remember I had to tear apart my room looking for a very small piece when assembling a robot.”

“Just cut them inside the box,” Bulleta suggested. “I never lose any pieces after using that trick.”

Netto takes Bulleta’s advice and cuts each piece by aiming it inside the box. He had a few close calls when some of the smaller pieces were flying off but all of them landed inside. After scooping the wireframes and getting to work. For the past few hours, everyone was watching Netto assembling the entire figure. Once he was finished, the figure was a female idol with long, purple hair tipped light blue that was tied into twin pigtails. Her black and white clothing was in a gothic Lolita style such as a dress, gloves, and boots.

“All done!” Netto beamed. “Should we do one more?”

“Sure, how about this one?” Bulleta gives him another model kit. Netto looks at the finished product on the box. It resembles a girl with blonde hair tied into a ponytail with a green bow, green eyes, and wearing a simple red dress and boots. He does the same process as the last model and the figure was successfully assembled.

“Wow, Netto, you are pretty good at model kit assembling,” Felica praised. “By the way, what time is it?” She looked up at the clock and was surprised by how late it was. “11 P.M. already? Netto, we should get going!”

“Really, it’s time to go?” Netto gets up from the desk and goes with Felica. “Thanks for inviting us, Bulleta-chan and Stacy-chan.”

“Wait, Netto,” Stacy stopped. “I want to show you my old house tomorrow. Since we’re friends, I think you have a right to know.”

“Sure, I’m looking forward to it.”

After Netto and Felica returned home, Bulleta was concerned. Was this the right decision for Stacy to make? Why did Stacy offer to show Netto her old house that was filled with bad memories? In Bulleta’s mind, it was probably to give the green-haired girl some sort of closure and to answer Netto’s questions.

- East Area [Macabre Residence] -

The next morning, Stacy leads Bulleta and Netto to another gothic-styled house, but this one is in obvious disrepair. The roof shingles were dislocated and some pieces were missing. The walls were cracked and the paint was peeling off. The front yard was clearly neglected as any plants were bare and withered and the grass was dry and brown. The whole house was left abandoned, but to Stacy, it was her former home.

“This place doesn’t look well-kempt…” Netto observed, “Has anyone taken care of it?”

“No, to be honest, I moved out of this place a few years after my mother’s court trial. She didn’t have the time to take care of me,” Stacy replied. “Just being here is giving me bad memories. I don’t think anyone has lived here since; I wouldn’t be surprised if Mother sold the place.”

“Is your mother home?” Netto asked.

“I don’t know where she is currently,” Stacy replied. “Looking back, she was always busy with work and didn’t have time to me. I don’t remember a single time when my mother was kind and attentive towards me. Maybe because I look too much like my father.”

“You did mention them back during our Nikkōkion Trip when we had to confront Haru,” Netto recollected.

“Yeah, my early childhood was that bad…” Stacy added. The trio approaches the door with Stacy being the lead. She hesitates as she cautiously puts her hand on the rusty door knob. She had to jiggle the door knob a few times before it opens. As the trio entered the house, Netto felt uneasy. The atmosphere felt cold, dirty, and abandoned. The entire place was covered with dust and cobwebs. At least there wasn’t any trash lying around. With every step he took, the old floor creaked below him. He felt scared and tense, it was like walking on eggshells.

“Stacy, how often does your mother come home?”

“Rarely, the only time she can come home was to eat and sleep,” Stacy answered. “I was lucky that she remembered to buy groceries for me to eat.”

This hit Netto hard, his mother was very kind and loving towards him, spoiling him with his favorite foods. Stacy’s mother seems like a very cold and cruel person, barely feeding Stacy. He could understand why Stacy was currently living with Bulleta and her uncle.

Stacy guides them upstairs to where her old room was or what remains of it.

- Stacy’s Old Room -

Netto was greeted by an abandoned child’s room that was left to rot. The ceiling was cracked, the wallpaper was very dirty and peeling off, and the wooden floors were discolored. The only furniture that was left was a degraded, wooden chest that was left ajar, and a bed with dirty sheets and pillows. Netto couldn’t tell if that was the original color, or if it was like that due to dust buildup.

“This is where you used to live?”

“Yeah, I spend most of my time alone here,” Stacy replied. “I had very few toys and clothes. I was lucky if the sheets and linens were clean as they were washed every other year.”

“Yikes…” Netto noted.

“This is obvious child neglect,” Avatar spoke up. “I could see why Stacy’s mother had her custody rights terminated.”

“Correct, after I was legally adopted by Uncle Onyx. Originally I was supposed to be emancipated but Uncle Onyx offered to be my legal guardian until I turned eighteen. As for my mother, after she was deemed unsuitable to take care of me, she was unable to adopt a child.”

“So, she’s all alone?” Netto asked.

“Logically yes,” Stacy answered. “She had plenty of chances to turn things around. Be a better person, a better mom, but…” She paused, clearly angry at her mother’s actions. She clenches her fists, tears about to burst. “She chose not too and lost everything…”

“So this house is abandoned,” Netto replied. “No one is living here?”

“Nope, the courts decide to seize it as collateral to pay mother’s bills,” Stacy explained.

“So, she’s in debt,” Avatar recognized. “That’s a pretty tough spot to be in. So, where does she currently live?”

“I don’t know… She could be living out of town for all I care. Come on let’s go.” Stacy turned around and was about to leave her old room when she froze in place.

“Stacy? What’s wrong? Why did you stop?” Bulleta asked.

 “Mother,” Stacy fretted, “She, she’s home?!”

The trio walks up to the railing and sees a woman slumped onto the couch, wearing a worn office uniform. Her tired, wrinkled face was full of sorrow and regret. Stacy ushers the two back inside and carefully closes her bedroom door to avoid detection.

“Shit, she’s home…” Stacy cursed. “I never thought she would come back to this decrypt place.”

“Is there a way to escape without your mother noticing?” Netto asked.

“Yeah, there’s a hidden doorway that leads to the backyard.” Stacy replied, “I usually use it to sneak out if she is ever home.” She goes to a section of the wall near the bed and slides it open. “Quickly, before she comes upstairs.” Bulleta and Netto go first then Stacy. The green-haired girl slid it close and the trio was left in the dark. Netto turns on the flashlight option on his PET, giving them more illumination to see in the darkness. “Look, there’s the way out.” Stacy pointed to an opening that led to a corridor. She leads them down the hall.

“This place is giving me the creeps,” Netto commented.

“Don’t worry, I’ve traversed this place many times,” Stacy assured. “This hidden pathway leads to the backyard.”

The end of the hallway seems to be a dead end, but Stacy finds a hidden door that leads to the backyard. The trio felt immense relief once they were outside and their soles touched the withered brown grass.

“That was close,” Netto said relieved. “I thought were going to get caught.”

“Come on, we should get going,” Stacy insisted. “We do not want mother to get us.”

- East Area [Eulalia Ice Cream Shop] -

After their harrowing escape from Stacy’s decaying old home, the trio decide to eat ice cream to calm their nerves. They were sitting at the usual spot, at the back corner near the window side. They already ordered their ice cream but they were not conversing or making any eye contact. Netto was quickly eating his cookies and cream. Bulleta was eating her BlackBerry ice cream at a snail’s pace. Finally, Stacy was just pushing and twisting her mint chocolate with her spoon.

The silence was broken when they heard the door open and saw Felica, Draga, and Angel entering the ice cream shop. Felica was the one to notice them and went to their table. But as soon as she’s near, she can quickly tell that everyone is dead silent even Netto. They just glance up at her without a word and avert their attention back to their ice cream. Netto was almost done with his, Bulleta was halfway, but Stacy barely ate hers.

Draga and Angel then come up to their table and quickly notice this behavior. They have seen this scene well. “Stacy, did you take Bulleta and Netto to see your old home?” Draga started.

The trio eating the ice cream stopped and looked up at Draga.

“Yeah,” Stacy confessed, “I wanted to show Netto around but we had a surprise encounter with Mother.”

“Your biological one?” Felica inquired. She heard this story before from Draga and Angel. Stacy sneaks out of her house and eats at the ice cream shop. It had happened a couple of times before Stacy was adopted by Bulleta’s uncle. Her other relatives were unable to take her in due to various circumstances. Her biological father was already living in another country and married with children. Being legally adopted by Uncle Onyx was the best outcome for her.

“Hey, why don’t we go to the mall?” Felica suggested. “I know it may seem much but maybe occupying your mind with something else would help.”

Stacy was unsure. She wasn’t in the mood to shop since she almost confronted her mother.

“Please, Stacy, we don’t like seeing you like this…” Draga pleaded.

“All right,” Stacy relented, “I’ll go, I guess…”

“That’s the spirit!” Felica beamed, “Come on, maybe a new wardrobe will spruce your mood!” Felica grabs her friend’s wrist and dashes towards the mall, the others trailing behind them.

- Strelitzia Mall [Aglaia] -

“There, that outfit is so you!” Felica beamed.

“I agree,” Draga added. “That gothic look looks great on you.”

Stacy quietly admits that her new clothes do suit her style.

A small black hat with a purple ribbon and a rose with a grey veil. A black trench coat with pear green highlights, black fingerless gloves with purple roses over a lavender tee shirt with a purple rose and white coffin symbol, black belt, grey miniskirt, and a different set of grey boots. However, Stacy feels like something was missing. She twirls around trying to find that missing detail. It was not her coat, nor her shirt or boots. It took a while but it was her hat.

“What’s wrong with your hat, Stacy?” Felica asked. “Is it not up to your standard?”

“It’s fine but something needs to be added,” Stacy nodded. “I don’t know what it is?”

“How about your new Navi’s symbol?” Netto suggested. “Most operators would have their Navis’ symbols on any article of clothing or accessories. My bandana was custom-made with my previous Navi’s symbol.”

“New Navi? You mean?”

“That’s right, after shopping we’re going to drop your order at TDF District to get your Navi made!” Netto beamed.

“Wait, did you swipe my design when I wasn’t looking?” Stacy asked in disbelief.

“I had to,” Netto reasoned, “Otherwise, I wouldn’t be able to complete the order. Don’t worry, your design is in good hands.” Stacy felt relieved but a bit disappointed that he didn’t tell her ahead of time.

- West Area [Assaina Residence] -

The rest of the day went off without a single incident. After dropping off the order at TDF District, everyone had already gone home. The green-haired girl lets out a breath she didn’t know she was holding. She felt a hand on her shoulder and looked up to see a Bulleta’s purple eyes full of concern. “Are you better now? Going to your old home is not one of your best ideas.”

“I know,” Stacy sighed. “But I thought I would be over it, but I ended up opening a few scars in the process.”

“It’s over now, Stacy,” Bulleta assured. “You are okay, now.”

Onyx suddenly enters the room with his cell phone in hand. “Girls, I got a call from the police station. Stacy, your mother was found in your old house. She’s currently going through mental help treatment. So, you may not see her for a while.”

“I see,” Stacy noted, “I won’t mind if she’s gone for a while. What’s going to happen to the old house?”

“It’s going to be torn down,” Onyx replied. “A new house will be built in its place.”

“Good, I don’t want to see that house anymore,” Stacy commented. Bulleta hugs her to ease her nerves.

“Do you want to sleep in my room?” Bulleta offered.

“Sure…” Stacy replied, “Today was a lot for me.”

- Bulleta’s Room -

That night, Bulleta removes her white barrettes, goggles, and glasses revealing her slightly messy, short black hair. After hanging up her white trench coat and gear, she changes into a simple white shirt with a graphic design and some purple highlights and simple black shorts.

She hears her door knock and allows Stacy in. She was wearing her black pajama gown. Both of them silently retire to the bed without a word. Bulleta was the one to break the awkward silence. “Are you still thinking about what you went through today?”

“Yeah…” Stacy replied.

There was a long pause before Bulleta uttered another word. “You know, this was a crazy day.”

“I know to think I would be visited by my dark past today,” Stacy added. “I wasn’t fully prepared for that. I should not have offered Netto to see my old house.”

“It wasn’t your fault that your mother suddenly showed up despite the court order,” Bulleta reminded. “Besides she’s getting the help she needs and that old decrypt house will be demolished and replaced with a new one.”

“You’re right, I’m glad that things are finally healing,” Stacy agreed.

“Get some rest,” Bulleta reminded. “Today will be another day.”

“Yeah, can’t wait to get my Navi.”  Stacy agreed, “Maybe it will be finished tomorrow.”

“We’ll see,” Bulleta ended.

The two girls fell asleep together, content and holding their hands together.

EXTRA:

Bulleta Assaina

Stacy Macabre - Old Attire

Stacy Macabre - New Attire

Chapter Text

In a dimly lit room, a black, obsidian shield shines faintly from the rays of the morning sun. In its reflection was Henshin, his red eyes full of anxiety yet determination to complete his trial. This shield meant a lot to his family; it was their treasured heirloom, the Cedron Shield. He carefully removes it from its pedestal and attaches it to his left arm. He then equips his other weapon, a small pistol gun. He takes a deep breath and exhales; he stands up full of determination and declaration. “I’m ready!”

- East Area [Pikelets Eatery] -

Before heading to Avril Denka, Bella invited Henshin to eat breakfast at Pikelets* Eatery. The interior was cozy, with the beige ceiling decorated with hanging, yellow basket plants. The warm pink walls with yellow highlights were decorated with pictures of small mini pancakes, and natural wood floors. Amongst the group that Bella invited were Henshin, Netto, Frost, and Briana. Avatar was sitting on Netto’s shoulder, her attention on the mini pancakes topped with whipped cream, blueberries, and red raspberries.

“Anyway, I’m glad you are retaking your trial, Henshin,” Briana smiled.

“Yeah, we are excited to see you complete it,” Bella added.

“Frost-kun and I will help you out as well,” Netto encouraged.

Henshin’s heart was lightened by all the support of his friends. “Thanks, guys, your support helps a lot.”

The bus ride towards Denka Avril was pretty quiet. Henshin sitting between Netto and Frost, while Briana and Bella were sitting a seat ahead of them. The red-haired boy was stewing in his thoughts, a mixture of feelings of anticipation, excitement, dread, and anxiety.  

“Hey, Henshin-kun?” Netto asked. His voice caused Henshin to stop and look at him.

“What is it, Netto?” Henshin asked.

“If you complete your trial then let’s celebrate at the Ume Hibachi,” Netto suggested.

“Really? That’s so kind of you,” Henshin commented. He was a bit surprised but was grateful for his friend’s kindness. That stopped his thoughts of self-deprecation from stewing.

- Denka Avril City [Nessa Institute] -

The waiting room was as busy as ever. Though it did take an hour before his name was called. Before his departure, his friends were given words of encouragement.

“Good luck!”

“We’ll celebrate a big feast for you after your trial!” Bella added.

“Thanks, everyone, I can’t thank you enough for your support,” Henshin thanked. “Let’s go, Netto.”

Netto nods in acknowledgment as he follows Henshin to complete his trial.

After Frost, Bella, and Briana saw Netto and Henshin left with the other participants, they went to sit down to wait for them. However, Frost was surprised to see someone familiar amongst the crowd of waiting participants.

“Aeon? What are you doing here?” Frost recognized.

“Oh, hey, Frost, Bella, and Briana, funny coincidence seeing you here,” Aeon smiled awkwardly.

“What are you doing, here?” Briana asked baffled.

“Oh, just wait for Sis and the others to return from their trial,” Aeon answered.

“Sis? You mean Savannah?” Bella asked. “But didn’t she already complete her trial, why is she here again?”

“She’s actually here as a partner,” Aeon replied. “The ones that are actually taking the trial are Bulleta and Stacy.”

“WHAT?!”

“I know, I was surprised as well,” Aeon commented. “Apparently, they filed the paperwork and forgot to tell us since we were busy with other things.”

“If that’s the case, then why didn't we see them?”

“They left a while before you came by.”

Trial 1 – Shadow Crawlers

After passing through the barrier, Henshin, Netto, and the other participants have to kill the Penumbras. It took everything in the red-haired boy’s psyche to not panic and run away. He looks down at his prized family shield and uses it to slam one to crash into one of the dungeon’s stalagmites.

He then takes out his gun and fires a bullet at another, it instantly kills one of the Penumbras. These bullets fused with Elemental Matters were very effective in killing both Umbras and Penumbras but not regular humans. You need regular bullets for those. Netto uses his electric powers to vanquish some of the pesky Penumbras.

Trial 2 – Crystal Towers

It was pretty tricky to climb down since some areas were pretty slippery. One wrong move and you easily fall off. He was lucky that Netto was here, if not then he would likely plummeted and suffered serious injuries.

Trial 3 – Mirror Labyrinth

“This is the entrance of the labyrinth,” Netto informed. “Are you sure you will be okay? My anxiety disorder manifested after completing this section. If Aeon-kun and Isla-chan weren’t there, I would’ve fainted.”

“I’ll be fine…” Henshin assured. “I’ll see you at the other side of the maze.”

Netto nodded at his friend’s words. He departs while Henshin stares at the entrance. He takes a deep breath and after exhaling, steps through the barrier. The place was dark with a maze of mirrors with the light coming from above. Henshin was a bit anxious but steels his nerves and proceeds. The more time he spent in the maze, he could hear the voices of his family and friends taunting him.

“You failed your first trial?”

“What a joke! I completed mine on my first try with no issue!”

“I can’t believe you failed even with our family’s treasured heirloom, what a disgrace!”

“What kind of child from the Daidaiiro family doesn’t complete their trial on the first try?”

Henshin started sweating and his breath became a bit shaky. It took a lot of mental fortitude to ignore those negative voices. He punches a mirror to stop the voices from their spiteful comments. However, his punch left little damage. “They aren’t real, they aren’t real,” he repeatedly chanted. He kept treading until he found the exit. Immense relief washes over his body and he sprints to the exit.

Netto was shocked and had to quickly catch his friend before he collapsed to the floor due to mental exhaustion.

“Henshin-kun are you okay?” Netto asked worriedly.

“I-I-I’m fine, Netto,” Henshin stuttered. “I’m just glad that’s over, let’s complete the next trial.”

Netto acknowledges his words but is deeply worried about his friend’s mental state after completing the maze.

Trial 4 – Outcrop Climb

The boys made it to the fourth trial where the other participants were climbing to the top. They were trying to avoid or attack the Penumbras to proceed. They were at the halfway point when a group of Penumbras appeared. Netto was the one to take the initiative, he stepped in front of Henshin to protect him. However, he got easily ambushed.

“Netto!” Henshin cried. He felt something being unlocked from his inner soul. He slowly waves his hand and a batch of orange cubes protects Netto from the Penumbras' attack. “No way…I’ve unlocked my power? I-I did it! I’m now a Magic User! Albeit a Summon Type.”

“That’s great, Henshin-kun!” Netto beamed, “You finally became one!”

“Yeah,” Henshin exulted, “I’m ready to take on the boss now!”

Trial 5 – Alaric Chamber

After successfully climbing the outcrop, they made it to the last chamber. The boss was a rock golem instead of a giant golden knight.

“That thing reminds me of Stoneman EXE from my world,” Netto observed. “Just one more trial until we complete it. Henshin-kun are you ready?”

“Ready!”

“Okay, here’s the plan! I’ll distract the golem while you find its weak point and hit it,” Netto instructed. Henshin agrees to the plan and the two split up. Netto taunts the golem and uses his electric power to gain speed and dodge its attacks. He zips haphazardly to confuse the golem.

Meanwhile, Henshin is using his new Summon powers to conjure a bunch of cubes to create a temporary floating path. He carefully maneuvers himself by jumping from one orange cube to another before glancing at the gigantic creature. “Where is the weak point?” Henshin scrutinized. He took a closer look and something was glowing inside its chest. Could that be the weak spot? He flinches at the golem sand pots him. “Oh shit!” Henshin cursed. The golem outstretches its right arm to grab the red-haired boy. At first, he uses his gun to damage it but it does minimal damage. He panicked and jumped down to avoid being grabbed and quickly conjured another orange cube. His back collides with it and he is immensely relieved. “Thank god for that quick decision!” But it wasn’t over, the golem's attention was still on him. However, Netto conjures an electric beam and fires straight at its back. The grey giant turns its attention back to the brunette before giving chase to him. Henshin took this opportunity to jump off his cube and to his luck found a ledge with a cave. However, he overestimated the distance and grabbed onto the edge with his left hand. He breathes heavily, full of adrenaline. His red eyes looked down at the dark pit below. Fear grips his psyche. He shouldn’t be scared of dying, if he got seriously hurt then he could be teleported. But he didn’t want to fail again, he failed once and didn’t want to repeat it. Was he going to fail a second time? His clammy skin was making him lose his grip, his fingertips slowly slipping. Henshin looked up, he wasn’t ready to give up yet. But he was helpless, it wouldn’t be long before he slipped and plummeted at least a thousand feet to the ground. He closes his eyes, accepting his fate. Before his grip was fully gone, he felt someone gripping his left wrist. Henshin was surprised, he opened his eyes and was shocked at the identity of his rescuer. “B-Bulleta?!”

“Hey, Henshin,” Bulleta smiled. “Need a hand?” She pulls Henshin up towards safety and the two take refuge inside a nearby cave to catch their breath.

“I didn’t know that you were taking the trial as well,” Henshin started. “When did you file the paperwork?”

“It was a few weeks ago, I forget to tell you guys,” Bulleta revealed.

“Then who’s your partner?” Henshin asked. “It can’t be Stacy. She hasn’t unlocked her power yet.”

“She did now,” Bulleta smiled. “She’s a Normal Type.”

“Normal? That’s pretty ironic,” Henshin commented. “I thought she would be an Invisible Type or something similar.”

“So, if Stacy is taking the Process of Discovery Trial with you and she just unlocked her power then who did you pick as your partner? If you did pick one.”

“Savannah,” Bulleta answered.

“Savannah, the reclusive, crystal collector?” Henshin asked perplexed.

“Yup, her Invisibility and her endless supply of Elemental Matters make her a very reliable ally,” Bulleta confirmed.

Savannah appears from her invisible state and gifts Bulleta the same special bullet that Henshin used earlier. Their faint yet familiar light emits from them.

“Are those…”

“Yes, the EleMatt Bullets,” Bulleta confirmed. “They contain traces of the Elemental Matters; they were a big contribution during the Emeric War.” She loads a few bullets into her double-barrel shotgun and carefully aims it at the golem.

“Hey, Bulleta. Did you unlock your heart?” Henshin inquired, “What type are you?”

“Cursor,” Bulleta replied. Her focus is still on her target. She narrows her eye and a rune appears on her left eye. “Henshin did you find the weak point?”

“Yeah, I saw something glowing around its chest area,” Henshin replied. “If we can damage that area, the weak point will be exposed. Netto is currently distracting the golem, but I’m not sure how much he could handle it. The ground is currently fractured and Netto could trip from the unstable terrain. The other participants went to higher ground.” He pondered for a bit, he couldn’t leave Netto to perish against the golem. “Savannah do you have any more of those bullets with you? I think I used all of them during the first trial.”

“Certainly, I think I might have one that matches your gun model,” Savannah fishes inside her jacket and gives Henshin, a few compatible bullets for him to use.

“Thanks, Savannah,” Henshin thanked. He loads them into his gun. “Hey, Bulleta may I join you?”

“Sure, the more firepower the better,” Bulleta replied. She focuses more intently on the golem’s back. For a second, she glances at Netto with his diversion tactic. He was avoiding the golem’s attacks, but the ground was getting more fractured. It won’t be long ‘til Netto tripped and became a vulnerable target. They have to hurry. “Ready, Henshin? On my mark, fire.”

On the ground, Netto was zipping haphazardly to desperately avoid the golem’s hits. “Netto, at this rate, you won’t have any stable ground to run on and dodge,” Avatar informed. “Please get to higher ground!” The grey Navi grits her teeth, Navis were forbidden to assist during the Trials. All they were allowed to do is to chit-chat and warn their operators if danger was nearby. They were forced to be sitting ducks. She was horrified when Netto tripped on a crack and tumbled to the ground, rolling a few feet before stopping. “Netto!” she cried. She fretted and came out in hologram form to assess his injuries. He was hurt but only bruises and minor cuts. Netto was still alive. He stumbles and sits up, he looks up after being shrouded by an over-looming shadow. Netto froze as the golem was about its fist to pound him into the dirt.

“FIRE!” Bulleta’s voice cried out. Both she and Henshin fired their guns at the exposed chest area. The golem cried in pain as its armor was cracked open, revealing a giant glowing orb.

Now’s my chance!’ Henshin creates more orange cubes and jumps on them. He fires his gun again straight at the weak point. The golem suddenly crumbles into dust. Many emotions ran through Henshin, relief that it was over mixed with excitement and pride in completing the trial. “I did it…I completed my trial!”

Netto felt relieved, he was glad he didn’t use dark powers this time. His new friends were more than capable enough to handle their own struggles. He just wanted to help others. After he developed his anxiety disorder, he had to learn to take care of himself, and in a strange way, he still helped others.

- Ume Hibachi -

“CHEERS!” Everyone clink their glasses to the success of Henshin, Stacy, and Bulleta’s trial.

“I didn’t know that Bulleta-chan and Stacy-chan would have their trial at the same time as Henshin-kun’s,” Netto commented.

“It was just a coincidence, Netto,” Bulleta shrugged, taking a small sip of her grape juice.

“By the way, Netto how is your team going?” Briana started, “Are you still doing last-minute preparations?”

“Yeah, we’re just taking it slow plus we’ve been mostly Net Battling especially the new Navis that the team has been receiving. First was Avatar, second was Aithusa, third was Aala and Cyndi, and finally Reaper.”

“Reaper?”

“She’s my new NetNavi,” Stacy answered. Reaper appears in hologram form on her shoulder.

“Oh, wow! That’s your Navi?” Briana asked.

“That’s so cool! She does fit your whole death obsession theme,” Aeon prattled.

“Nice to meet you, Reaper!” Radioman introduced. “My name is Radioman!”

“Greetings, Reaper, I am Crystalman,” Crystalman added.

“Nice to meet you, Radioman and Crystalman,” Reaper beamed.

“Are you going to show her to the others or introduce her to the Summer Bluma Network?” Bella asked.

“I’ve already shown her to the others,” Stacy replied. “They already showed her the Network.”

“Damn, I must have missed the introductions,” Radioman replied. “I was too busy compositing music with Aeon.”

“I was busy with negotiations in obtaining new minerals as well,” Crystalman added.

“Well, this is a good opportunity to properly introduce yourselves,” Aeon reasoned.

“By the way, did you still come up with your team’s name?” Bella deflected.

“It’s Team Dracaena, Dracaena Paradise,” Netto proudly announced. “We were throwing names left and right and Angel joked about naming our team after the beach house’s plant. At first, it was funny but it fits due to Draga’s name and my status at the Aaron.”

“Then who’s leading the team?”

“Actually Draga and I,” Netto replied.

“Wait, Draga is your co-leader?” Bella cried in shock.

“I never thought Draga would be a leader,” Briana pondered.

“It is true and a weird choice but she’s been helping me organize the preparations,” Netto replied. “Travel plans, supplies like food, water, gear, battle strategies, etc.” 

“That’s pretty cool, I hope she does well.”

“Come on, let’s enjoy this meal!” Netto beamed.

EXTRA:

Henshin Daidaiiro

Chapter Text

Various papers were scattered around a baby powder blue room. R.C. was frustrated: “Nothing seems good!” She massaged her temple to calm her nerves.

“R.C., I understand your frustrations,” Natsu sympathized. “The restrictions on certain topics make it difficult to make a good draft to submit to the contest.”

The two girls were sitting on the carpeted floor of R.C.’s bedroom. Her walls had two blue bookcases with her bed having midnight blue sheets and blue pillows in between. The top half was full of books that delve into many different genres, the most prominent were romance, comedy, adventure, and horror. The bottom half was full of storage baskets crammed with a variety of blue stationery. A white desk across the room and behind Natsu. It was unorganized due to the big stack of books and piles of spiral notebooks.

“Have you come up with anything?” R.C. asked.

“No, nothing good,” Natsu replied. “I know, how about going to the local library and seeing if there are any books we can read for inspiration?”

“I think that’s worth a shot. Okay, we’ll go there, we could find something good for our draft,” R.C. agreed.

- Beach Flora Library -

Hours went by and piles of books and empty drink cups were stacked and loitered on their table. R.C. was looking at her open blue spiral notebook and was disappointed at the scribbled minuscule bullet points. She turns the next page and it was only a flow chart of different ideas. R.C. sighs in disappointment, “Nothing, we’ve read a lot of books and nothing is popping up. All the ideas and topics that I can come up with are half-decent at best.”

“That’s what happens when all the good ideas are already done and trying to do something new is rehashing an old one,” Natsu commented. “Are there any good original ideas left?”

R.C. closes her notebook in disappointment. “Natsu, why don’t we just take a break?” She suggested, “If we keep looking for an idea we’ll just end up frustrated.”

“Good idea,” Natsu agreed. “Maybe taking a break would help with the creative process. The best ideas come when you’re the most relaxed.”

- East Area [Strelitzia Mall (Frida Café)] -

The girls decide to grab a bite at Frida Café and notice that there is already a huge group forming at the establishment. “Odd, why is it crowded today?” Natsu asked, “Normally, it would be empty.” As they got closer, the girls quickly recognized the group. It consists of Netto, Draga, Felica, Isla, Stacy, Bulleta, and Lani introducing their Navis.

“Whoa, yours look so cool!” Lani observed, “I can’t believe you got your Navi as well, Stacy!”

Natsu and R.C. took a peak as the Navis gathered at their combined table. It wasn’t hard to find out which ones were the new ones.

One had a spectral, ghost feel to her. Her skull mask with the glowing eye inside the sockets and the flame ponytail was a dead giveaway.

The other was a fruit-themed Navi with two slices of lime on the yellow helmet and orange, lemon-patterned gloves and over-the-knee socks.

“Oh, Natsu and R.C.-chan!” Netto observed, “Why are you here?”

“We’re just taking a break,” Natsu replied. “Wait, are Malosi and Angel not with you guys?”

“No, Malosi went shopping and Angel is somewhere else,” Netto replied. “Is Mira with you? She should come out and introduce herself to the newcomers!”

“If you insist, Mira could you come out? We have new Navi friends.”

Mira comes out in hologram form and sees the two Navis on the table. “Oh, new Navis? What are your names?”

“I’m Reaper!” The skull Navi introduced, “Nice to meet you, I’m Stacy’s NetNavi.”

“Limon is my name, I’m Lani’s new NetNavi!”

“Hello, Reaper and Limon, my name is Mira,” Mira greeted.

“Have fun with your friends, Mira. R.C. and I will be right back, R.C. and I are going to order some food and drink,” Natsu informed.

“Okay, we’ll save a seat for you, two when you come back,” Netto added.

During their time ordering their meals and waiting for them to be ready, R.C. vents to Natsu about her frustration of not coming up with a good story entry. “Natsu, I’m still upset that we haven’t come up with a draft yet. Hell, we don’t have a name for a story yet!”

“Be patient, R.C., I’m sure that good story idea will come up,” Natsu assured. “Just relax and enjoy your break. Remember, the best ideas come when you are relaxing.”

“I guess so…” R.C. mumbled.

After grabbing their meals, they return to find Mira playing a game with the other Navis and their operators.

“Oh, what game are you playing?” Natsu asked.

“We’re playing a game this allows both humans and Navis to enjoy,” Netto explained. “I came across it when searching for a game that I can play with Avatar. An independent game development team has created this game for both humans and their Navis to enjoy. It was by pure coincidence when we found it.”

“What’s the name called?” Natsu inquired.

“Does it have a plot?” R.C. added.

“It’s called Virtual Explorer,” Netto answered. “You get transported to another world to gather resources to survive to the next day. What’s better is that Navis can join in and help gather supplies. Unfortunately, this is only a beta and three worlds have been released. We just unlocked the second world. However, there are plans to add more in future updates.”

“Another world…” R.C. pondered. An idea suddenly pops into her mind. “I think I got an idea for our story submission. I mean our journey going to another world could be a great inspiration for our entry.”

“That’s a great idea!” Natsu agreed, “Although, I think we should alter the concept a bit. Do you remember the ‘do not submit’ section on which types of stories they will automatically reject? One of them was ‘transferring to a parallel world’.

“How about a girl that moves into a new country to begin a new life and has to deal with cultural differences when blending in?” R.C. suggested.

“That’s a good story concept,” Natsu approved. “We could refine it and add a few of our own twists to it to make it stand out more.”

“I’m glad that you’ve got your story down,” Draga commented. “I can’t wait to read your drafts.”

“Thank you, Draga,” R.C. thanked. “I’ll give you a call once we’re done.”

- West Area [R.C.’s Home] -

R.C. sighed as she tried to brainstorm the ideas to tighten the story’s plot. First, she focuses on the setting and then the characters. Writing a story was hard, especially in the early drafts. She wished she had more time, but with the crazy adventures, she tagged along with Netto there was so much she could do. After dinner, R.C. finally completes the first draft. She was satisfied with the work and sent a copy to Natsu via email. Immense relief fills her body and goes to bed to rest. However, an interesting dream begins to form. A white, anthropomorphic cat was riding inside a bus. She was looking down at a map detailing her new home. Her blue eyes were a bit watery after bidding farewell to her family and friends. The dream ends when another cat with purple fur sits on the seat across from her. R.C.’s eyes shot open after experiencing that vivid dream. She quickly gets up from her bed and quickly jots down the details of said dream before she forgets.

She quickly sends an email to Natsu to meet up at the library before leaving.

- East Area [Beach Flora Library] -

“Huh, you had a vivid dream about a white cat girl moving toward a new town?” Natsu asked.

“Yes, the scene starts with her inside a bus after saying a tearful goodbye to her old home country,” R.C. replied. “Though it was cut short when another purple cat was sitting across from her.” She fishes out her notebook and flips to the page that details her vivid dream. She had to make sure she didn’t forget anything.

“Oh, you’re writing a story for the Writing Your Fantasy contest?” Sherrice asked as she approached their table.

“Hello, Sherrice,” Natsu greeted. “R.C. has a good idea for a story albeit from a vivid dream she had last night.”

“Well, what R.C. has is a good start,” Sherrice commented. “The main character processes the emotions of leaving everything behind is a pretty good emotional start to hook the reader in.”

“Yes, but how to build on it? Would she have a quiet move-in or be introduced warmly by the neighbors?” R.C. pondered, “I’m thinking a lot of different scenarios here.”

“I think you should go with the neighbors greeting the main character route,” Sherrice suggested. “This will give you the opportunity to introduce the characters.”

“Yeah, give them personality,” Natsu encouraged. “Establish each member of the main character’s new neighborhood. Give subtle hints about their motives or hobbies like sewing or drawing.”

“Okay, so how many characters to introduce? I shouldn’t put too many since this is a short story submission.”

“Maybe make it a small one, introduce three or four characters,” Sherrice suggested.

R.C. turns to another empty page in her notebook and quickly jots down her friends’ suggestions. “Natsu is my submitted draft any good?”

“No, nothing was grabbing my attention,” Natsu answered. “But your ideas born from your vivid dream could be a better story.”

“So, start over from scratch again,” R.C. replied. “Well, no matter, at least the newer idea has more story potential than the older one.”

“So, what story genre are you going with?” Sherrice inquired, “Are you going for a slice-of-life one? Because those are harder to make because the characters themselves have to drive the story since there is normally no over looming threat, unlike other genres like adventure or horror.”

“Don’t worry about that, I have a few personality traits and hobbies I have planned for the supporting cast,” R.C. assured. “Your suggestions helped a lot.”

“That’s good, I can’t wait for the submission of the second draft,” Natsu beamed. “I can’t wait to see it.”

- West Area [R.C.’s Room] -

That night, R.C. tightens the story's premise and restricts the length before submission. It took many hours and it was about 1 A.M. when she finished. “Looks like I have to finish the rest tomorrow,” R.C. sighed.

For the next few days, R.C. went through endless rewrites of different drafts of the same premise just so the readers could keep their attention on the story. It was a pretty stressful time for her. Her brief meetings with Natsu on revising certain scenes and losing sleep to complete another draft were taking a toll on her. Because of this busy schedule, she didn’t have enough time to get up early to eat breakfast at Aurelius Park. But R.C. brushes this off as finishing the story before the deadline is more important.

Two days before the submission deadline, R.C. reached a blank. She couldn’t find an ending to the story. Sure, it is a short story meant for a contest submission but to her, an ending is just as important as the beginning. That way the reader does not feel disappointed and unsatisfied once they finish the story. R.C. wanted to tear her hair out due to how close she was to finishing the story. She was done with the beginning and the middle, but yet she was having trouble ending it. She looked up at the clock and noticed that it was 11 P.M. “Why not sleep early tonight,” she suggested. “Maybe a good night’s rest will help me think of a satisfying ending.” She silently agrees with her own suggestion and decides to retire early for the night.

Her eyes flutter open as she glances at her clock, 6 AM. She got up from her bed and was surprisingly refreshed. Maybe she should go on her morning picnic today, a nice break would do her a lot of good.

She goes downstairs to get her food ready. Slices of bread slathered in various jams before inserting them into sandwich containers and shoving them into her picnic basket. R.C. strolls quickly to the door and heads to the park.

- East Area [Aurelius Park] -

R.C. is relieved that it was still dark when she entered the park. It took a while to find a place to set up her blanket, so she could get a clear view of the sunrise. During her search, she was shocked that Joan was sitting on the grass alone.

“Joan?”

“R.C.?”

“What are you doing here?”

“I should be asking you the same thing,” R.C. noted. “This is the first time I’ve seen you here at this hour.”

“I had a nightmare involving Jerry,” Joan started. “I had trouble sleeping after that, so I decided to come here to relax.”

“Did you eat breakfast before you came here?”

“No…” Joan replied with a deadpan expression.

“Wait, Delia is with you right?” R.C. asked.

“Yeah, she’s with me but she’s fretting that I didn’t get any sleep and going out very early morning.”

“Do you want to eat breakfast with me?” R.C. offered, “I have enough sandwiches for you to eat.”

“Sure,” Joan answered.

R.C. puts out the blanket and sets down the food and plates. Joan takes her seat beside R.C. as she takes a bite out of a peanut butter and strawberry jam sandwich jam. The light slowly pours into the park and the two girls look up to see the brilliant sun peaking over the horizon, leaving the entire park in a brilliant gold. Joan was in awe at how beautiful the sight was.

“Hey, R.C., I heard that you were submitting an entry for a writing contest?” Joan asked.

“That’s write, I’m almost done but I need help writing a good ending to wrap up the story,” R.C. answered. “I just had the time to come here to relax when thinking of something satisfying to end the entry.”

Joan turns back to the rising sun, “So, R.C. what is the premise of your story?”

“Oh, it’s a slice-of-life story with the main character moving into a brand new country,” R.C. replied, “I’m almost done with it.”

“Can I read it?” Joan asked.

“Later, I don’t have it with me,” R.C. replied.

“I did read some of your old drafts and enjoy your stories,” Joan complimented. “I want to see your submission.”

“Okay, if you insist then I’ll give it to you after breakfast.”

- West Area [R.C.’s Home] -

Joan and Delia were looking over the latest draft of the story. They were hooked by the start of the main character being sad about moving away to a new country and leaving her former life behind. Moving into a new neighborhood, the neighbors show their personalities when introduced, the main character creating a comfortable routine and experiencing the ups and downs of living in a new country. It all seems pretty cozy yet relatable.

“This is a pretty good story,” Joan commented. “But you were having a hard time writing an ending?”

“Yeah, I don’t know how to end it.”

“Hmmm…How about the main character gathers the entire cast to have a picnic?” Joan suggested. “I know it seems cheesy, but it could work.”

“You’re using our breakfast picnic as a good scene to end the story?” R.C. asked baffled, “I admit that it may be a good end, but I need to discuss it with Natsu. Thanks for your feedback, Joan.”

“No problem, thanks for letting me eat breakfast with you,” Joan beamed. She gets up from her seat in the walk-in kitchen and heads out.

“Take care, Joan,” R.C. replied. She looks back at her notebook jotted with Joan’s suggestions. R.C. was now confident that her story was now complete. What she needs is Natsu’s approval as her editor.

- Pinku Residence [Natsu’s Room] -

Natsu was impressed by the recent draft that R.C. conjured up that morning after Joan’s visit. “This is really good,” Natsu praised, “I loved how everything is wrapped up in a wholesome and satisfying ending. We finally can send our submission in! Mira, could you print it out?”

“Of course, Natsu,” Mira agreed. Her printer suddenly starts by itself.

“Amazing, I didn’t know printers do that.”

“This is one of the newer models,” Natsu explained. “If you have a NetNavi then you connect them to the printer and they will print any image or document from your PET or Computer.”

“That’s pretty cool,” R.C. commented.

“Yeah, PET and NetNavi technology are skyrocketing in popularity,” Natsu agreed. “Some companies are taking the risk and experimenting on what to do with the technology. They are either going for the artistic, or entertainment route by giving people tools or other devices that they can link with their PETs so they can play with their Navis. Or the more convenient route by allowing the Navis to help improve the functions of our electronic devices like microwaves to heart monitors.”

“But aren’t there any concerns?” R.C. asked. “If we connect everything online then it could lead to an increase in cybercrime. That’s what Netto said about his home world. Anything and everything is connected to the Internet and cybercrime increased as a result.”

“It has been reviewed by the International Technological Safety Committee,” Mira informed. “They have put restrictions on the construction of internet servers that way if there was a worldwide cyber-attack then the damage would not be as severe. Sure, it would be a bit inconvenient but reduce the risk of a total societal collapse if it were to happen.”

“That is true, remember the Abner Hikari Files that you, Sherrice, and Netto showcased back in Nikkōko?” R.C. reminded, “If the World Wide Web that openly supported NetNavis was not canceled due to the first Umbra Incident then who knows how technologically advanced our society would be today. It would be totally different than we have now.”

“By the way, R.C. didn’t you want a Navis as well?” Natsu deflected.

“I have considered it but that was a few years ago,” R.C. argued. “My opinion has changed during that time.”

“Oh, that is a shame, it would be nice if Mira had a new friend. Almost everyone in our team has a NetNavi or is considered getting one,” Natsu explained. “At first, it was Aeon, Isla, and Savannah with Radioman, Amar, and Crystalman. Then slowly our entire team got their own Navi. Netto got Avatar, Draga got Aithusa, Felica has Aala and Cyndi, and finally Stacy has Reaper. Ruby, Frost, and even Bulleta are considering getting their own in the future. However, since we are leaving soon we might not have the time to construct one for all of them. But if you changed your mind about having one then what will that Navi be?”

“To be honest, it is for a silly reason,” R.C. confessed. “I wanted my Navi to sing to me when I write my stories.”

“A singing Navi?” Natsu commented, “That seems odd yet interesting, many people would get a Navi for combat or help with certain functions when it comes to electronics. But I understand your reason, before I got Mira, I wanted to read stories to my Navi. I know it was as dumb as yours.”

“It’s not dumb, I enjoy the stories that you read to me, Natsu,” Mira affirmed. “Once a week, you would read one short story before bed.”

“Mira…” Natsu felt touched by the small activity she created for her Navi. She felt guilty that she didn’t treasure her before, but after the revelation of Cyanea and the true origin of the NetNavis her treatment of Mira has improved. Valuing her as one of her friends rather than a digital assistant.

On the day of the deadline arrives and R.C. and Natsu submit their entry to the contest. The blue-haired girl was immensely relieved that she didn’t have to stress and lose sleep over finishing it. “It’s finally over,” R.C. sighed in relief. “I thought it would never end.”

“Well, be glad that it’s over,” Natsu assured. “Who knows we could earn first place! Didn’t you want that rare limited edition stationary?”

“Yes, the Coleen Dream Edition,” R.C. fondly recollected. “There were at least 1,000 in current circulation, so when this writing contest offered it as the first place prize, I had to join!”

“Now that your entry is submitted, we should celebrate!” Natsu suggested. “I know just the place! Do you remember that place near the Beach Flora Library?”

“You mean that place, but I thought it was a regular book store to buy novels, comic books, and manga?” R.C. recalled.

“Actually, it is a combination of a bookstore and a café,” Natsu clarified. “You didn’t know much about it since you rarely visit that place. By comparison, I’m a regular customer. They have extended their book catalog and menu the last time you came.”

“You mean Jasper Page?”

“Yeah, that one!” Natsu confirmed, “I heard they’re going to be releasing some new books and desserts to celebrate the Summer Solstice Festival. There’s one book, I’ve been keeping a close eye on.”

- East Area [Jasper Café] -

The interior of the café was full of bookshelves of various books that were separated by genre. R.C. could see the café section at the far back, where a few workers were cooking or serving food and drinks to the customers. The colors were mostly brown with some green plants littered around to give it an earthly vibe. The wallpaper had a triangle pattern with some green, yellow, pink, and light browns to give the café more color and vibrancy.

“Welcome to the Jasper Café!” A duo of waitresses wearing their uniforms came to greet the two girls

One had black hair tied into two pigtails with blue sideburns, orange-amber eyes, and pale skin. Her uniform was a brown dress with a white collar and waist ribbon, black leggings, and brown boots.

The other had auburn brown hair tied into a side ponytail with a mint green hair accessory, deep blue eyes, and fair skin. Her uniform was a white puffy shirt over a light brown, collar, sleeveless top, brown pencil skirt, and matching boots.

Both of them bore their company’s logo on their clothes. For the black pigtailed hair, it was on the chest area of her dress while the brunette side-pigtailed girl had it on her belt.

“Sonnet, Kalinda!” Natsu recognized, “It’s so good to see you! Do you remember, R.C.?”

Sonnet, the black pigtailed waitress takes a closer look at the blue-haired girl. “I think I’ve seen her only once…”

“Sorry, I don’t know here,” Kalinda, the side pigtail brunette apologized. “I was recently hired so I've never seen her before.”

R.C. was deflated by their comments but it was justified. She wasn’t a regular customer compared to Natsu.

“Do you want to order something?” Sonnet asked.

“Sure, two Queen of Hearts Rose Cupcakes and a cup of iced coffee,” Natsu replied.

“Come right, up! What about you, R.C.?” Sonnet asked. “Do you want to order something as well?”

“Um, it’s been a while since my last visit, can I take a look at your updated menu?”

“Certainly!” Sonnet beamed, “Be right back, you can pick any table that isn’t occupied.”

 The two girls decide to sit at a two-seat table with natural wood. “So, Natsu how often do you come to this specific café?”

“Oh, almost every week,” Natsu replied. “I enjoy the atmosphere here plus the books I can find that the library does not have. Mostly supernatural and mystery books.”

Sonnet quickly approaches their table with the menu in her hand. “Here, R.C., our café menu. Natsu, your order will be coming soon.” Natsu quickly glances at Kalinda as she was cleaning the counter. The blonde girl notes that there weren’t many customers today, but it was usually like this during the slow days. It was the perfect atmosphere to enjoy a book or two when sipping some cold or warm coffee.  As R.C. was about to peak on the menu, they heard the café door’s bell ring. They glance up and see Sherrice with Draga, Angel, and Netto in tow. Netto is the one who spots the two girls.

“Oh, R.C.-chan, Natsu-chan are here!” He heads to their table with the three girls trailing behind. He grabs a chair from a nearby table and sits with them. “So, did you girls submit your story entry?”

“All submitted,” Natsu beamed. “So, how did you find this café?”

“I was the one that recommended this place,” Sherrice answered. “I did know that you liked this place. Netto, Draga, and Angel just tagged along with me.”

“Anyway, Natsu-chan, I’ve heard from Draga that you’re a defensive Magic User,” Netto deflected.

“That is correct,” Natsu confirmed. “After completing my trial, I have the ability to conjure barriers to protect myself. I would often use it to block out sound temporarily in a noisy, crowded environment or to defend myself from flying objects.”

Another employee with blonde hair tied into a high ponytail was carrying two trays of food and drinks for another set of customers when she suddenly tripped. Suddenly all of the food and beverages fly off the trays and head straight towards Natsu’s table. However, Natsu with the flick of her wrist, conjures a barrier that blocks the trajectory of the flung items. All of them fell to the floor which saved their table from getting their clothes soiled. Netto was surprised that she was able to bring it up that fast with a simple wave.

A customer with pink glasses and pink heart clips in her dark brown hair was amazed by Natsu’s power but quickly returned to eating her meal.

“I’m sorry!” the blonde-haired, employee apologized.

“Brenna, you better clean that up!” Kalinda chastised, “This is the fourth time this month that you did that! We are wasting food and drinks because of your clumsiness.”

“Sorry, sorry, I’ll clean up that mess, right away!” Brenna quickly goes to the cleaning room to retrieve the mop and bucket.

“I apologize for that, Brenna has been here for at least two months,” Kalinda explained. “Her antics of always dropping the customers’ orders have been getting bothersome lately. Luckily, this happens when the café is mostly empty. If she did that during a busy shift like rush hours, she could get fired.”

“Order for Natsu!” Sonnet beamed. Before she could get the food to Natsu and R.C.’s table, the cupcakes and iced coffee suddenly began to float. Sonnet and Kalinda were unfazed by this as this was a regular occurrence for Natsu eating at their café. Netto was amazed as Natsu put the cupcakes and drink in front of her without breaking concentration.

“That’s pretty cool,” Netto observed.

“Man, Natsu your unique psychic powers are always the highlights of your weekly visits,” Sonnet teased. “By the way, R.C., did you already decide on what you should order?”

“Yes, a Blue Potion Drink and a slice of tiramisu cake,” R.C. replied.

“Okay, one Blue Potion and a slice of tiramisu cake coming right up,” Sonnet beamed, writing down the blue-haired girl’s order. “What about the Netto boy and the other three girls?” She was referring to Draga, Angel, and Sherrice who are now sharing the same table with Netto, Natsu, and R.C.

“Oh, we actually need menus to order since we’re new here,” Draga answered.

“Actually, I’ve been here before. Although, it has been years since my last visit, so I don’t know the current menu,” Sherrice revealed.

“No problem, let me explain. At our café, we serve foods and drinks that are based on the cuisine of popular and famous novels and/or our upcoming releases of the season,” Sonnet explained. “However, food and beverages of upcoming releases are limited time. For example, we serve themed cupcakes that are based on our new summer releases.”

“Really, are those cupcakes available? I want to order one,” Netto requested.

“Of course,” Sonnet beamed, “We have Fruity Party, Chocolate Shore, and Teddy Relaxation.”

“I’ll take the chocolate one,” Netto quickly answered.

“All righty, one Chocolate Shore Cupcake, do you want a drink to go with that?”

“Just some orange juice,” Netto replied.

“Got it and I’ll get some more menus for the three girls.” Sonnet jots down Netto’s order on her small notepad before going back to grab two more menus for Angel and Draga.

“Hey, Natsu-chan, I just realized that we haven’t hung out much lately,” Netto pondered.

“Really, I haven’t noticed much,” Natsu doubted. “But now that you mention it…”

“It’s because you don’t go outside much and hang out with others,” Angel interjected. “You’re always buried in your books.”

“I mean that is a factor,” Natsu acknowledged. “But here’s the bigger question, what do Netto and I have in common? Netto prefers going outside while I like staying indoors.”

“Hey, I do spend time indoors as well,” Netto argued. “I’ve been busy with my drawings and personal inventions lately. But you are right, we don’t share anything in common. The reason we hang out is because we share the same friend group. So, what do we have in common?” He ponders for a moment looking for a thread to deepen his bond with Natsu. He glances at Mira and an idea forms. “I got it, how about Net Battling? Natsu-chan when was the last time you Net Battled?”

“Huh? Well, it has been a while,” Natsu pondered. “I’ve been busy reading books and helping R.C. with the story submission so…”

“You haven’t practiced Net Battling have you?” Sherrice interjected.

“No, I haven’t,” Natsu admitted.

“Do you even have battle chips?” Draga asked.

“I do have my battle chip case with me,” Natsu replied. She fishes her pink case from her green tote bag with Mira’s symbol and gives it to Netto. He notices how light it is. Odd, the weight seems weirdly light compared to his battle chip case. He zips it open and notices how empty it is. Only a few battle chips were seen on the first page. And even they were low-level, standard, common chips.

“Natsu-chan, your chip library is lower than the standard limit for each folder,” Netto observed. “Have you even stockpiled your chip sack?”

“No, I’m sorry Netto but I’m just not as interested in Net Battling as you and the others,” Natsu revealed. “I prefer reading to Virus Busting.”

“But Natsu-chan, your Net Battling skills are important!” Netto protested. “You have no idea what kind of foes we will be facing once we head out. After everyone finishes their snacks, we need to start your Net Battling training right now!”

“Okay,” Natsu relented. To be honest, it was inevitable that Natsu had to improve her operating skills. At the moment, Natsu was a novice Net Battler due to a lack of interest and passion for Net Battling and Virus Busting. How could this bookworm improve her skills in such a short time? Her thoughts were stopped for a minute when Sonnet came back with Netto’s cupcake and orange juice and three menus for Draga, Angel, and Sherrice. After the waitress left, Natsu continued to stew in her thoughts. She glances up and behind his enthusiastic grin to devour his well-crafted chocolate cupcake, there is a twinkle of determination in his eyes. She wonders if Netto could help Natsu and Mira drastically improve their skills.

“Hey, Natsu?” Mira asked. “I want to go to Summer Bluma Network!”

“Huh? Oh, sure,” Natsu agreed. “Why are you going there?”

“Just to relax,” Mira replied.

“Good idea!” Aithusa approved as she appeared on Draga’s shoulder. “Rideman, you should come too! Sherrice is a pretty good Net Battler, right? I heard that you and she were one of the best overseas!”

“Well, that is true.” Rideman confirmed, “Are you saying you need my help to construct Natsu’s Chip Library?”

“Duh! Come on, Mira, let’s go to the network’s chip shop and browse for some Battle Chips to add to your operator’s folder,” Aithusa encouraged. The three Navis left for the Network.

Avatar was left behind, projecting herself on her operator’s shoulder.

“Hey, Ava? Why don’t you hang out with the others?” Netto coaxed.

“Are you sure? What about you?” Avatar asked.

“I’ll be fine,” Netto assured. “Just go hang out with the others, okay?”

“All right, I’ll be back.” Avatar logs into the Summer Bluma Network.

- Summer Bluma Network [Alden Battle Chip Shop] -

As Natsu’s group was enjoying their snacks and chatting away, Mira was at the network’s battle chip shop. Rideman, Aithusa, and Avatar accompany her to help with her folder building.  Coincidently, Radioman and Amar were also there as they browsed the vast chip collection. The group tells them that they’re helping Mira fill up and construct Natsu’s battle chip folder before they start their Net Battling Training.

“There are just so many chips here that I have trouble choosing which ones to get,” Mira explained.

“Well, what build do you want to make?” Radioman asked.

Mira was confused but Amar picked up the conversation. “Every Net Battler has a different type of strategy built into their folder,” Amar continued. “How about going for a defensive strategy? Your operator, Natsu can create barriers and more objects with her powers. Maybe have a tactic that reflects her powers?”

“If that’s the case, then we should get some Aura and Barrier chips,” Aithusa added. She quickly grabs some and gives them to Mira.

“Uh thanks, Aithusa,” Mira thanked. The green and white Navi is appreciative of Aithusa’s actions, but it would be better if she got them herself.

“So, I got the necessary chips now what? They are susceptible to Wind-Type attacks,” Mira reminded. “This weakness also applies to Natsu. She has trouble setting up her psychic shield against wind-type attacks.”

“How about some Sword Battle Chips?” Avatar suggested, “Think of it as a way to counterattack. If your Auras or Barriers get blown away, equip a Sword-Type Battle Chip to strike down.”

“What type of Sword Chips do you recommend for a quick step attack?”

“Fumikomi Cross*,” Avatar replied. “It is very useful for a quick, cross slash to your opponent, but the downside is that it targets the enemy closest to you. And it may not always be your opponent, it could be a virus they summoned. Fumikomizan* is another good option.”

“So, what other chips should I add to the folder then?” Mira asked.

“How about some chips that could temporarily blind the opponent?” Radioman suggested. “My attacks involve summoning Rarapappa* Viruses to blind my opponents. You should get some Silence Chips. Oh, and Blind* Chips as well.”

After many suggestions from her friends, she gathers the chips that she needs and purchases them. She was surprised that the Silence and Blind Chips were cheaper than the Aura and Barrier ones.

“Okay, Mira, your chip folder is now full,” Avatar confirmed after checking the capacity of the green and white Navi’s default folder. “Do you want to test it out?”

“Can we do it someplace more private?” Mira suggested, “I don’t think Natsu is comfortable enough to test it at the coliseum. Remember Isla and Amar’s defeat?”

“I guess we can do it at the arcade’s Net Battling Machine instead,” Avatar suggested.

“Good idea,” Aithusa agreed. “This could boost their confidence.”

“Before we go, I want to show you guys something,” Mira interjected.

“What is it, Mira?”

“There’s a library that recently opened up so Navis can read here instead of going to the comps at Beach Flora Library,” Mira explained. “I actually helped up with the setup, all those hours of paperwork really paid off.”

“Well, let’s go there then!” Radioman beamed. “Aeon is busy composing some music, so enough time to chill before going back.”

“Indeed, Isla is doing chores with her sisters, so I have time as well,” Isla agreed.

“All right, just a quick stop,” Avatar relented. “Netto and the others are still eating their food and drinks.”

- Marina Athenaeum -

The exterior looks pretty simple with a neon sign displaying the text, Marina Athenaeum*, in cyan lighting. However, it was way different inside. It was much bigger when they entered. The same text as outside seems much bigger but the lighting was dimmer to not blind the customers. Avatar was impressed by the interior design of the store. Many stands showcased a huge selection of books from different genres. However, they also showcase and sell digital versions of stationery such as mail and journals.

“This place looks pretty big for a small bookstore,” Radioman commented. “I’m not much of a book person though.”

“If you’re bored, you can take a seat over and wait for us,” Mira gestures towards a lounge where a few Navis are already seated.

“You’re not going to browse the store?” Amar asked.

“Later, I have to oversee some music that Aeon recently made,” Radioman explained. “I’ll save some seats for you when you’re done.”

“Do you want to look around, Avatar?” Mira asked. “You might find something you like to buy.”

“Sure, why not? Let’s look around,” Avatar agreed. “Though, what about the others?” She glances around to see that the other Navis have already scattered to scour the different parts of the store.

“The Athenaeum is not hard to navigate through,” Mira reasoned. “I want to show you something.” She grabs Avatar’s wrist and guides the silver Navi to a room with some bookshelves and hanging plants from the ceiling. Both of them take their seats across from each other at a small dining table and two chairs.

“Um, Mira, why did you take me here?” Avatar asked.

“I wanted to talk to you alone without the others prying,” Mira replied. “How are you enjoying your life here?”

“You mean my life here in Universe B?” Avatar clarified. “It has been an interesting ride. I didn’t know how amazing some of the places in this world were. The highlight was in Amphitrite Island where we explored the Scyphozoan Blue Court’s Network.”

“I’m glad you enjoy your life here, but what about your time as Netto’s ‘new’ Navi?” Mira articulated. “Do you enjoy being his partner?”

This made Avatar reflect on her time with her operator. Despite the short time, she was in this world. It was very fun and memorable. The most vivid and best ones were when she saw the beach, and the vast ocean, tasted human food for the first time in Mira, and the smiles of Netto and his friends. “Yes, I greatly enjoyed my time with him and with everyone else. However, I shouldn’t delude myself. Netto already has another partner waiting for him back in Universe A, Rockman. Once the time of their reunion comes, I have no choice but to step aside and let them be.” Avatar couldn’t help but feel bitter saying those words. It wasn’t easy letting go of someone you’re attached to.

“But are you okay with that decision?” Mira asked.

“No, I’m not,” Avatar acknowledged. “But Netto always assured me that he would be my partner even if he did reunite with Rockman. Though it’s not easy to share an operator with another Navi.”

“But it is possible,” Mira argued. “Aala and Cyndi are proof of this.”

“No, I believe this situation is different,” Avatar disagreed. “I have no idea how long Rockman was Netto’s Navi but when Netto talks positively about him. I feel like they’ve been together for years. How could I compete with a Navi that has been with Netto far longer than I have?”

“Hey, didn’t Netto already talk about this with you?” Mira reminded. “I don’t think he’s the type of person to easily abandon a friend.”

“It’s just, maybe I’m being selfish,” Avatar acknowledged.

“Selfish? No, it’s normal for a Navi to be a bit selfish towards their operator,” Mira assured. “Our operators are our world. It is normal to think about not sharing with another Navi. Why are you so worried about this?”

“Well, how would Rockman feel if another Navi, me, took his place as Netto’s navigator?” Avatar disputed. Mira went dead silent. “Yeah, he would have feelings of resentment and jealousy towards me. That could boil over to a future conflict.”

“Maybe, you and Netto could try talking to him?” Mira suggested. “I’m sure he would understand your reason. Tell him that you and Netto got together by circumstance.”

“Talk to him?” Avatar doubted. “Would that resolve the conflict?”

“Yes, sometimes talking to someone does avoid future conflict,” Mira assured. “If you talk to Rockman about the circumstances in which you met and became Netto’s Navi. He will understand and not resent you for taking care of him.”

“I’ll think about it… Normally, Navis have to fight to resolve conflict.”

“No, sometimes talking reason does,” Mira disagreed.

“I have questions for you though,” Avatar deflected. “Specifically, your relationship with Natsu. How long have you known each other?”

“Oh, well, Natsu and I have been friends ever since she was 10 years old, so about five to six years now,” Mira answered. “I was given to her as a gift from her parents. She was confused about what to do with me, so she decided to read books to me. It wasn’t until later when she met Aeon and Isla that she knew that NetNavis was used for deleting viruses and improving electronic performance. During my time with her, I felt neglected since she was busy with books and working part-time as a librarian. However, after visiting Mira, we got closer. Natsu started paying more attention to me and we spent more time together. To think that our trip to Mira changed our relationship for the better.”

“I’m glad that you grow closer,” Avatar acknowledged. ‘To think Netto has such a profound effect on others. I wonder if that’s because he is the new Aaron or maybe his character.’

A screen of Netto’s face suddenly appeared on her face. “Ava-chan! We’re done with our snacks! We’re going to the Arcade!”

“Okay, Netto, head to the mall then. The others and I will return the PET in a bit,” Avatar replied.

“Got it, are you going to buy something before you return?” Netto asked. “Because it seems like you are in a new location.”

“We’re inside a digital bookstore, everyone is just browsing the store or relaxing,” Avatar answered. “We’ll inform everyone that you are done and ready to head out to the mall.” Netto agrees and the screen fizzles out. “Should we depart and tell everyone that our operators are ready?”

“Wait, I need to buy something before we go,” Mira stopped.

“Make it quick,” Avatar commented.

After Mira grabbed some watermelon-themed stationery, Avatar informed Aithusa and Rideman that their operators were done with their snacks. They bid Radioman and Amar farewell before returning to their PETs.

- East Area [Strelitzia Mall (Breeze Orchid Arcade)] -

After Natsu purchased her chips online, Netto brought a special machine that could make physical Battle Chips from the digital data inside PETs. If it is valid then it translates the data into an empty physical Battle Chip for use. When Netto came into this world and received Avatar, he was confused about why this world didn’t have a function for Battle Chip data to automatically transfer onto an empty physical chip. Turns out the process can only be possible with a special type of device. He ponders if there was a way to instill this function into future PET Models in this universe.

“I’ve heard of these machines,” Natsu recalled. “Just insert your PET onto this slot and insert an empty battle chip on the other side.”

“They are called Transfer Chip Machines,” Netto explained. “There was a sale at one of the electronics shops in the mall and was lucky these devices were part of that bargain. I had to buy it, I couldn’t resist. And the best part, this device is compatible with all PET Models currently on the market.” He then places a white box and opens the top to reveal a bunch of battle chips with no labels on them. “It’s a good thing all these machines come with a complimentary box of these empty chips.” He fishes one and gives it to Natsu. “Here, insert your PET into this compartment and slot the empty chip on the other side.”

The blonde girl agrees and follows Netto’s instructions. She inserts her green Link PET into the slot on the device’s left. The machine scans the device and after confirming its compatibility, its screen shows the many icons of her Aura, Barrier, Sword, Silence, and Blind Chips. It was a very time-consuming process to convert the data from the PET and transfer it into each empty battle chip. Netto misses the streamlined process of obtaining a battle chip from the Internet from his home dimension.

“Okay, all done.” Natsu wipes some sweat from her forehead using her sweater’s sleeve. “That took a huge chunk of time.”

“Now, that your chip folder is all set, we should practice!” Netto beamed.

The group congregated around the Net Battling Machine. “Let’s practice using Viruses first!” Netto adjusts the settings on the machine and a couple of Garūs and Mettools appear.

“Plug-in! Mira, Transmission!” Natsu cried.

- BOA Net Battle Arcade Network -

Mira was inside the comp, ready to fight. The settings of the machine were three rounds. They were set to test Natsu’s timing and Mira’s reaction time during combat.

Round 1 Begin

“Battle Chip! Sword, Slot-in!”

Mira quickly dodges a Garū attack before the weapon is successfully sent.

“That reaction time is too slow,” Sherrice commented.

Mira slashes the canine virus in half. Another charge in to attack.

“Battle Chip! MetGuard! Slot-in!” Natsu countered. The Garū hits the giant yellow helmet instead of Mira.

“Yeah, the reaction time is much better, keep it up, Natsu,” Draga encouraged.

The final viruses, two Mettools charge toward Mira with their pickaxes.

“Fumikomizan! Slot-in!”

Mira’s right arm morphs into another sword and quickly dashes and slashes the two Mettools in the process.

Round 1 Cleared!

“We did it!” Natsu beamed.

“You’re not done yet, though,” Draga reminded. “You still need to test your Aura strategy against Wind-Type enemies,” Draga reminded.

Natsu paled, she and Mira were just past the warm-up, and the true test was starting.

Round 2 Begin

A bunch of Wind-Type Viruses appeared. This includes some Fancar* and Wind Boxes.

“Time to test our strategy,” Natsu noted. “Battle Chip, Dream Aura*, Fumikomi Cross! Slot-in!”

A Fancar quickly blows away her aura, but Mira quickly uses her weapon to create a cross-formation slash. This action deletes all the viruses at once.

Round 2 Cleared!

“Great job, Natsu! You’re getting a better grasp at Net Battling than I thought,” Netto praised. “You’re almost done, but the final round is the true test.”

“Right, let’s go, Mira, we have to defeat the boss.”

“Yeah, Natsu,” Mira agreed.

Final Round Begin!

A Normal Navi appears as Mira’s final opponent.

“All right, Natsu, this is the final stretch. One more and we’re done, so let’s do this together.”

Natsu wholeheartedly agrees and grips her remaining Battle Chips. “Battle Chip, Barrier! Slot-in!”

A translucent shield forms around Mira. However, the opponent retaliates with Super Kitakaze*. The attack quickly blew away her protection.

“Counter attack, Battle Chip, Fumikomizan!” Natsu declared.

Mira quickly dashes and leaves slashes across the Normal Navi’s body. The Navi counterattacks with a Silver Fist.

“Battle Chip, Area Steal, Sword! Slot-in!” Natsu countered. Mira warps away before the attack collides. She attacks from behind and slashes her opponent’s back. The damage was critical and was forced to log out. Giving Mira and Natsu the win.

Final Round Cleared!

You Win!

“I did it!” Natsu exulted.

“Wow, Natsu, you cleared all three rounds,” Angel praised. “I didn’t know you had it in you.”

“What?! Well, I admit it was kind of fun,” Natsu reasoned.

“Oh, come on, don’t deny it, I saw the glint in your eyes. You had immense joy in them,” Netto pointed out. “Even though it was at a lower setting for beginners, you enjoyed every battle. So do you want to battle a real opponent?” Natsu saw a glimmer of mischief and eagerness in his eyes. “There is a huge difference battling against a computerized Normal Navi and a human opponent with a customized one.”

“R-really?! I mean I need to recharge my chips and…”

“No, thanks Netto,” Mira declined. “I’m tired after doing the three-round survival battle. How about another time?

Netto felt disappointed, “Ah, really? Man…” The brunette was bummed out as he was interested in testing Natsu and Mira’s strength. However, Natsu felt relieved, ‘Saved by Mira.’

- West Area [Pinku Residence (Natsu’s Room)] -

That night, Natsu was on her bed reading a short adventure novel to Mira.

Her room was very cozy. White ceiling with a hanging chandelier of lavender candles, pale pink rooms, and purple carpeted rooms. Her bed had pink pillows and blankets with a soft purple throw on top. White bookshelves that reach the ceiling contain books of different genres. The only other furniture in the room was her white and natural wood desk with a pink and green laptop for Mira, and a tall storage cylinder to store her collection of plush dolls.

They were at the halfway point when she heard the doorbell ring.

“Natsu! Your friend, R.C. is here!” her grandmother called.

“R.C.? Why is she here at this hour?” Mira pondered. Natsu gets up from her bed and uses a blue bookmark as an indicator of where to continue later. She goes downstairs to the first floor where R.C. and her grandmother are waiting.

“I have good news,” the blue-haired girl beamed. In her right hand, she was waving a beige envelope with a red wax seal on it.

“Is that?”

“Yes, an acceptance letter from the committee responsible for the Writing Your Fantasy Contest,” R.C. confirmed.

“Ironic that they don’t accept the “Transported to Another World’ stories despite the fact it is part of the fantasy genre. Specifically the portal sub-genre,” Natsu noted. “Nevertheless, open the letter, R.C.! I want to see what they think about their entry.”

R.C. breaks the seal and reads it. “Dear, R.C. and Natsu Pinku, thank you for your submission. Your entry has been accepted. Your prize will be mailed to the address provided with your entry.”

“That’s great that our submission is accepted, but wait doesn’t it take a least a month for the results to be released?” Natsu remembered, “When the results come, we won’t be in this world anymore.”

“Don’t worry dears,” Grandma Pinku assured. “I’ll be the one to receive the letter and prize if you do win. Now just focus on rescuing Purity and her Zeva.”

“Thanks, Grandma,” Natsu beamed.

EXTRA: