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Chapter Text

Mega Man returned to his room in the Smash Mansion and found the other Mega Man present and chatting amongst themselves. Mega Man’s real name is Rock. He has a blue helmet, but he has brown hair and blue eyes. He is wearing a blue battle suit that allows him to copy other Robot Master’s abilities. 

“Oh! How was your match?!” Hub asked warmly as he waved to him. 

Besides Mega Man, he discovered four other Mega Mans who fought with their friends against their enemies. Despite being from different universes, they get along very well and even exchange stories and events that had occurred from their universes. 

Hub is from the Battle Network universe and is a twin brother to Lan Hikari. Hub has short brown hair and emerald eyes. He is wearing a dark blue suit with a blue helmet and crest with red and black. He has blue boots and gloves, but his gloves could transform into weapons. 

“It was good! It was fun to fight against Samus and Captain Falcon again” Rock answered warmly until he noticed two of friends where not present, “Where are Proto Man and Bass? I thought they would be here” 

“Both decided to return to their universe. They received a call from Dr. Light. Bass didn’t want you to quit so soon” X replied with a grind. 

X is from another universe and is one of the tallest Mega Man in the room. He has a blue battle armor uniform with shoulder and knee pads present. He has blue boots and gloves. He has green eyes and brown hair and was holding himself up high. 

“Ah, that makes sense. I know they and my family want me to do my best and go as far as I can in this tournament” Rock said with a grin. 

“That’s so nice of them!” Volnutt exclaimed happily, “I am sure Roll and Tron would do the same for me!” 

Volnutt is wearing a blue robotic armor and has green eyes and brown hair. He has a helmet too, but he took it off to take a break in. He grinned warmly at his alternate version of himself. 

“Are all of you doing well?” Rock asked curiously before approaching a recharge chamber, “You’re not tired or need a break from the fighting?” 

“We are fine” Geo reassured him with a wave as he reverted into his normal outfit, “I suggest taking a break, but we are not done yet. We want to see how far you can go, Rock” 

Geo is the Mega Man hero from his universe. He uses Omega-Xis to transform into the hero. He has brown hair and wearing a red jacket with blue shorts. He has blue pants, a necklace holding a pendent, and a green visor. 

All of them are different Mega Mans from different universes. Sakurai is a huge fan of the Robot Master and his different stories. He wanted to invite all of them, but he decided to invite the first Robot Master of them which is Mega Man who is known as Rock. They all shared the same room and were able to recharge their gears and themselves before each fight. 

Hub noticed he was receiving a message and opened a screen to see his twin brother, Lan! 

“Hub! How are you doing?! How many battles have you won?! I want to make Chaud jealous!” Lan shouted in delight as he waved at his twin brother on side of the screen. 

“I am doing fine, Lan. I’ve won a few, but Rock is the one doing all the work here. Give him some credit too” Hub reassured his twin with a shake of his head. 

Lan Hikari is Hub’s twin brother who is human. Lan has the same hair color as him, but he has brown eyes. He is wearing a white shirt, orange vest, black shorts, and shoes that allow him to roller skate. He has a blue headband with the same symbol on Hub’a chest. He is Hub’s Operator, but for the tournament, Lan let him compete. Hub could compete in the Spirits arena, but he was still a part of Rock’s final smash. Regardless, Lan was very excited about his twin brother fighting in one of the biggest fighting tournaments in the world and multiverse. 

“Yeah, yeah” Lan said with a wave of his hand, “But you’re the only one here who gets to compete! That’s way more important than nothing!” 

Hub shook his head, but everyone else laughed and grinned at the twins. There was a notification on Lan’s end, alerting him to his visitors. 

“Is someone visiting you today?” Hub asked curiously. 

“Yeah! I invited Raika, Dingo, Jassmine, and Maylu to see one of your upcoming fights! Chaud was too busy and couldn’t be bothered to show up” Lan answered in delight with his friends coming, but he was annoyed about Chaud. 

Hub knew Proto Man and Chaud would be busy, so he didn’t mine them not being present. Though, he was a little worried that Dingo was coming. 

“Are you sure inviting Dingo to the lab is a good idea? I know Tomahawk Man is with him, but I am still not sure about this” 

The other Mega Mans looked over his shoulder curiously about the troublesome boy. They recognized Tomahawk Man’s name, but they were curious about the Operator more than the Navi. 

“He’s a bit like Lan, but more reckless. He dives headfirst into danger without even thinking, even more so if you can imagine” Hub whispered to them, “Though, he does have Tomahawk Man to keep him in check, but sometimes it is not enough” 

Some of them laughed while others were surprised to hear this. Lan shook his head before leaning back in his chair. 

“I am not worried! Raika’s also going to be here! You know how serious he can be too! I am sure everything is going to be fine!” Lan answered with confidence who patted his chest until they heard something crash behind him. 

Hub face palmed as Lan fell out of his chair. 

“Dingo! Get back here!” Raika’s serious, annoyed voice rang out in the lab. 

There was a laugh and a couple of screams before Lan picked himself up and ran towards them. Lan turned off the screen and ran to take care of the issue while Hub sighed. He was debating on using the internet in mansion to pop in and visit his twin brother and prevent him and Dingo from doing to destroy their father’s lab. 

“Who was that?” X asked curiously as Geo answered, “That was Lan. He’s Hub’s twin brother. It sounds like quite the party! Kind of envious they get to watch Rock and us fight against the other fighters” 

X only nodded his head while Rock asked, “But he mentioned Tomahawk Man, right? So, who is he paired with?” 

“Dingo” Hub said with a sigh, “I hope they don’t do anything like last time” 

“What did they do?” Volnutt asked curiously and excitedly. 

Hub sighed as he recalled the memory from his memory bank. He pulled up a few screens to display it before them. They looked at the screens curiously until Hub held a nervous smile.

“Well, it is quite the story. Are you sure you want to hear it?” Hub asked as he grinned. 

X glanced to the clock and nodded his head. 

“We should have enough time until our next match. Sure. It cannot be as bad as you state” X said as he tried to reassure his counterpart who held a deadpanned expression. 

“Sure, X, sure. Anyway, our world was trying to find a way to make a stronger internet connection of sorts” Hub answered as the screens began to play, “And, well, that happened to be the day Raika, Search Man, Dingo, and Tomahawk Man came to visit us” 

“Hey! Tomahawk Man! Are we almost there? Lan said we would have a chance to have a Net Battle before having curry!” Dingo shouted in excitement as he rushed from the train station to heading to Dr. Hikari’s lab. 

“Dingo! Slow down! You cannot run without direction!” Tomahawk Man shouted with worry and frustration for his Operator. 

Dingo is a nature loving youth from Netpoia and is from a tribe with his childhood friends Shanka and Raoul. He is wearing a navy hood with a green and yellow bandana around his head. He has red hair. He has white feathers on his navy hood and has a pocket in front of him. He has a pair of black shorts with a silver belt holding three, red feathers with yellow tips. He has brown shoes as he is holding a green PET in his right hand and a sack carrying his belongings in his left hand. He happily made his way forward and through a busy crowd. 

“Dingo! Listen to me!” Tomahawk Man shouted from the PET and gave it a shock to catch his Operator’s attention. 

“What?!” Dingo asked annoyed before shouting at his PET. 

“Will you listen to me! You don’t know where you are going! You never do! You always throw your tomahawk and not pay attention to anything around you!” Tomahawk Man shouted in a frustrated manner. 

Tomahawk Man is Dingo’s Navi. He has green armor and has a white headpiece with feathers. The feathers were white and had yellow edges with a head with a red band to keep it secure. He has a tomahawk on his right hand and has emerald eyes. 

“That is not true!” Dingo shouted as he reached for his trusty tomahawk, “I shall find a way! Watch me!” 

“DINGO!” Tomahawk Man yelled in a frustrated manner before his Operator threw the tomahawk in the air! 

A few people stepped away from the young teen who grinned when the tomahawk fell on the ground with a clatter. They screamed as a few birds squawked in fear when the tomahawk was thrown in the air. The wooden handled pointed to the right as Dingo let out a hearty cheer! He picked up the tomahawk and ran in that direction as Tomahawk Man gave up on his Operator. He happily ran down the street as people took a few steps away from him. 

Meanwhile, an icy, serious teenager from Sharo was sitting in a taxi that was taking him and his Navi to the lab. He was sitting in the seat and holding a green PET in his hand and reading a few important briefs on their assignment. 

“Raika, I believe you have everything under control” Search Man, his Navi, appeared on the screen with a calm expression. 

“I know, but I have to read it over and over again” Raika informed his Navi, “Especially since Dingo and Lan are going to be present” 

Raika is a young teenager from Sharo. He has mint green hair and blue eyes. He is wearing a red hat and matching tie. He has a pair of white gloves and has a giant, dark green coat. He has brown hoots and shook his head. 

“Would you prefer to read a message from Princess Pride?” Search Man asked as Raika felt embarrassed. 

He raised his coat’s collar to hide his face. He was relieved Lan and his friends were not present to see his embarrassed expression. Although he and the princes were exchanging texts as often as they could, he promised to keep their relationship a secret and inform their friends of it. She wished to keep it a secret for her safety and his. 

“No, I wouldn’t take to read it nor accidently see her online. She needs to focus on her country first and then me” he informed his Navi. 

Search Man has orange hair and emerald eyes. He has a blue scope lens and is wearing a cameo, military outfit. His right arm is a sniper. He is a tall Navi compared to the others. 

“Very well. I shall head into the NET and do a few duels against Knight Man or other Navis. Please contact me if you need anything” Search Man said with a bow, “Also, Raika, please have fun. They are your friends” 

“I know” Raika answered with a kind expression before Search Man disappeared into the NET. 

He leaned back in the comfy, black leather chair and shook his head. He has a mission and must follow through with it before he is allowed to relax. He only hoped his friends wouldn’t cause too much trouble for him. Who was he kidding? They would. The taxi continued to drive until he found himself staring at the lab. 

“Ah, there we are” Raika whispered before gathering his luggage and paying the driver, “Thank you” 

He exited the taxi and held his luggage over his shoulder to stare at the lab. He was grateful it was still in one piece after their numerous battles and hoped nothing else would happen to it. He prepared to enter, but he heard a familiar yell. 

“RAIKA!” Dingo shouted in delight before he jumped and tackled into the soldier!

“Oaf!” Raika exclaimed as he fell with a thud, “Dingo, nice to see you as well” 

Dingo only laughed in delight before raising his head to laugh at his friend who held a deadpanned expression before him. He didn’t bother to get up until Dingo got off him. Dingo rolled off him with a grin as Raika sat up. 

“I see Lan invited you as well” Raika said in a knowing tone before sitting up and shaking his head at him before realizing something, “I am surprised you are here to so soon. You were able to find your way to the lab quicker” 

Dingo held out his tomahawk as Raika sighed with his friend going on a tangent about how he used his trusty tomahawk to find his way to the lab. Raika stood up with Dingo following him. They walked into the lab and found the employees going about their day. Raika was looking for Lan as he let Dingo continue talking. Raika was paying attention and nodding along. 

“Dingo! Raika!” Lan shouted as he exited the door to his father’s private lab and waved to them. 

“Lan!” Dingo happily yelled before running to him with Raika holding a gentle expression. 

Dingo and Lan shared a hug bad fist bump and began to chat with Raika standing behind them with a grin of his own. As for Search Man, he entered the NET in the lab with Tomahawk Man. 

“So, did he run around in circles?” Search Man asked in a knowing tone as he held a smirk. 

“You have no idea how many times we were turned around” Tomahawk Man said with a disappointed expression and tired one as well. 

“Aw, don’t worry” Hub reassured them as he appeared before them, “I know that feeling too well with Lan at times” 

They greeted him warmly as he waved to them. 

“Is Proto Man not joining us?” Search Man asked curiously. 

“No, he and Chaud are busy with their family’s company” Hub answered with a grin, “But I am sure we will hear from them soon. I know Lan sent them an email about the event” 

“Oh, oh! Is it ready?!” Tomahawk Man asked excitedly. 

“Hopefully soon!” Hub answered them with an equally excited expression. 

Lan turned to Raika and held a warm expression too. Raika smiled at both boys and went to pull out a box of sweets for him! Lan happily accepted it and licked his lips in anticipation to devour the delicious treats. 

“I know you don’t visit Sharo as often as Pride, but I believed this would be a good chance for you to try some of our sweets” Raika explained warmly. 

Lan nodded his head until he realized something, “Pride? You mean Princess Pride, right? Are you allowed to call her without a title finally?!” 

He teased Raika a bit who turned away to hide a blush and glare at his friend. Dingo blinked in confusion before realizing the implication and jumped on Raika’s back. 

“You’re with the princess?!” Dingo shouted with a grin as Raika nearly fell, “Is she doing ok?! Oh! How many dates have the two of you gone on?!” 

Raika shook Dingo off before glaring at the pair who were laughing and running away from him! The soldier shook his head before composing himself. He knew it would be better than to scold them. 

“Sorry about him, Raika” Hub apologized with a shake of his head, “But he has no room to talk considering his relationship to Maylu” 

“The same applies to Dingo and Shanka” Tomahawk Man added annoyed. 

“It is fine” Raika reassured as he looked at his PET before walking after the duo of troublemakers. 

He entered the lab and found it in the same messy and disorganized mess he recalled. Dr. Hikari was creating another device to allow travel between the NET and their world. They were curious about it, but the doctor only needed protection. Raika put his belongings on the ground before approaching the lab with Lan and Dingo sitting near the giant screen where Dr. Hikari was standing. 

Dr. Hikari is Lan and Hub’s father. He has the same brown hair and eyes. He is wearing a white lab coat, yellow shirt, and blue pants with a pair of glasses. He was sitting at his desk before turning to everyone and holding a warm smile. 

“Greetings! Thank you for coming” he said in relief, “I know it was short notice as well, but thank you for taking the time to come and visit. I promise my latest invention should allow for the NET to appear in our world without the damages and threats transferring, I hope” 

“Don’t worry, papa!” Lan encouraged strongly, “Your inventions are so powerful and smart! I am sure you will be able to do this! Also, even if trouble is present, we will be there to help you!” 

Dr. Hikari smiled softly at his son before ruffling his hair with his hand. 

“I know, but I don’t want that to happen often” Dr. Hikari said before turning to the screen, “But I believe this would be a wonderful invention. Of course, I am not sure how this will help others, but it is a work in progress” 

“Does this mean Hub could visit more?!” Lan asked excitedly as he stood up with Hub even surprised. 

“Perhaps! I was thinking of using the NET as a way to transfer goods, but I will be honest, Hub being able to appear before us is also a wonderful idea” Dr. Hikari confessed as the twin brothers were surprised before Lan was cheering. 

Raika was even impressed with the capabilities the technology had, but he also wondered what dangers it could potentially bring. He knew this would increase trades and communication and allow travel, but this could allow others to attack from different parts of the world. 

“I am aware of the dangers, Raika” Dr. Hikari reassured as he noticed the soldier’s tense expression, “But I am still testing it. It will not be used for anything until I have everything tested. This includes the ability to protect others from it and allow for peace. This is for the better of the world” 

Raika nodded his head understanding before thinking any further on the matter. As for Dingo, he tilted his head to the side. He was confused about the technology and had no idea how any of it worked. Sure, he had a PET, but he only knows how to NET battle. Everything else is beyond that. 

“Does that mean I would be able to travel from here to home without taking a plane?” Dingo asked a loud tone as Raika placed a hand on his forehead at how oblivious Dingo could be. 

“That is my goal” Dr. Hikari reassured with a grin before turning to the screen, “But I would need to run some tests on this. I have a few more programs and data to run as well. This isn’t perfect, so it will take some time” 

He sat on the computer again and typed away to reveal a gate he was creating in the NET to allow a Navi to leave and appear in their world! Lan gasped at it as Raika raised a brow. He then wondered what Pride would think about it. He could imagine her excitement and wonders of using it for her country and his.

“But first, I plan to test with a prototype Navi” Dr. Hikari explained, “But I am worried if it is safe with a human. Human DNA is more complicated than a Navi if that wasn’t obvious” 

Lan was silent as Hub wondered if he could be used to test it since his DNA is a mix between a Navi and human, but he decided to remain quiet and let his father make the decision since he and Lan have been caught up in too many life-threatening situations. 

“So, are you ready for the first test?” Dr. Hikari asked excitedly as Lan shouted in agreement with Dingo. 

Raika remained quiet, but he nodded his head. Dr. Hikari started up the program and let the dummy Navi to walk through the gate. So far, everything was working well. However, that didn’t last long. The machine began to malfunction as the dummy Navi was trying to reach the gate in the real world! The computer was smoking and sparking as Lan and Raika were the first to react. Lan pulled his dad away as Raika aimed his PET into the NET to have him save the dummy Navi and stop the machine. 

“Wait!” Dr. Hikari shouted as he quickly typed something on the keyboard to eject a navy chip. 

He grabbed it before Raika pulled the doctor away from the control panel. He made sure he was in front of the doctor, Lan, and Dingo and covered his face as the control panel exploded! 

“Is everything ok?” Raika asked as he turned to them and then held his PET, “Did you save the dummy Navi, Search Man?” 

“Everything is safe on our side” Search Man reported as he glanced at the dummy Navi with Lan and Tomahawk Man were cleaning up the ruins of the gate. 

Raika sighed in relief as he turned around to see Lan checking on his dad and Dingo on his back. Dingo was dazed with Dr. Hikari looking at the navy chip in his hands. 

“What is that dad?” Lan asked curiously. 

“This is the connection I created between the NET and our real world” Dr. Hikari explained as he showed it to his son, “Without this chip, there will be no connection between it” 

Lan was intrigued by this as Hub asked, “Does this have anything to do with my time in the Smash Brothers tournament?” 

“I was inspired by it, but hearing about another Mega Man, Geo, I was even curious if I could create a world like his” Dr. Hikari explained with a grin, “But I am not sure if I am going to solve this. I am not as close as I thought I would be” 

He seemed disappointed before picking himself up and looking at the ruined computer. He adjusted his glasses to examine the damage. He would have to repair it and fix the connection. He shrugged before heading back to his desk and begin his repairs. Lan rushed to help his dad as Raika helped Dingo up. 

“That was not at all I thought would happen” Dingo confessed in a surprised manner. 

“Neither did I” Raika confessed before glancing at the father and his sons working with him, “Let’s step out. We should let them have this moment” 

Dingo pouted, but he knew Lan likes staying with his dad and working with him. Dingo would love to have a net battle, but that would have to wait. 

“Yeah, yeah” Dingo said as he grinned, “Let’s have some curry! You’re going to pay!”

“Of course, I am” Raika said with a shake of his head and laugh before walking behind Dingo. 

The two departed, leaving the Hikaris to themselves, but they were unaware of an unknown presence near the lab and wanting the navy chip for themselves. 

“Do you think it will work?” Lan asked his dad curiously. 

“I hope so, but if I can’t figure it out, I am sure you and Hub can” Dr. Hikari said with a grin as he ruffled Lan’s hair and waved to Hub, “Come on, let’s have some lunch and then check on same data. I am sure the two of you want to try one of my new inventions” 

They were excited to spend the day with their dad. He left the navy chip on the desk and went after his sons. Unbeknownst to them, the thief entered the lab and landed before the desk. He smirked at the chip laying on the desk and went to reach for it. Until he noticed the doors were opened. He quickly jumped to the ceiling and hid himself as Dingo ran in with Raika behind him. 

“I left it in here! I am sure!” Dingo shouted as he ran to the desk and looked for his missing item. 

Raika accompanied him back to the lab, but he was annoyed that his friend left his tomahawk. He didn’t want to bother the Hikaris and wanted to get Dingo get out of here. He looked around for the item, but Raika sensed a familiar presence nearby. He wasn’t sure where. 

“Ah, ha!” Dingo shouted as he found his tomahawk on the ground and raised it high in the air and threw his head up. 

He opened his eyes and blinked a couple of times until he noticed Dusk hanging onto the beams of the ceiling. 

“Oh, hi, Dusk! How are you?” Dingo greeted and waved with a grin as Raika gasped and looked up to see the assassin for hire in the ceiling! 

“Getting my next pay” Dusk whispered annoyed as he dropped a smoke bomb on the ground! 

Raika grabbed Dingo to hold him close before searching for Dusk’s target. Raika’s eyes were wide as he looked at the desk to see the navy chip. He swiped the chip just as Dusk lunged to grab it! 

“Dingo! Throw your tomahawk at the window!” Raika shouted as he pulled himself and Dingo away from the assassin. 

“Ok!” Dingo shouted as he threw the tomahawk at the window to shatter it! 

“Search Man! Inform Lan of what is happening and make sure he is with his dad!” Raika ordered before picking up Dingo and holding his friend close, “We’re leaving!” 

He jumped through the broken window as Dingo let out a scream. They landed on the grass as Dingo coughed and picked up the tomahawk. 

“Why did that jerk attack us?!” Dingo yelled as he glanced to Raika who was checking on the navy chip. 

Dingo was about to shout at him, but Raika rushed to pick up his friend before running away from the lab! Dingo was even more frustrated as he believed they should fight Dusk, but Raika shook his head. They need to keep their distance from the assassin, the navy chip, and Hikaris to ensure of their safety.

Chapter Text

“That didn’t go as plan” Shadow Man said annoyed from his PET. 

Shadow Man is a ninja like Navi. He and his Operator have worked with Lan and his friends before, but they are assassins for hire. He is a purple Navi with a red shuriken on his face with a long, red scarf pointed upward. He has purple gauntlets and silver boots with a katana behind him. 

“I know…” Dusk replied annoyed and equally frustrated as his Navi. 

Dusk Miyabi is the assassin for hire and even looked after Dark Scyth. He had dark, purple hair and a scar over his face. He is wearing a red and dark purple outfit with black pants and gray sleeves. He has white socks and red shoes. 

“Dusk?!” Lan exclaimed with Hub appearing before Shadow Man in the NET, “What are you doing here?!” 

He turned around to see the operator who stood against him from before and even allied when it came to protecting their world. Regardless, he was still an assassin for hire and right now, he needed to get that navy chip back from his other comrades. 

“I do not have time for this!” he shouted before jumping to the window, but Lan grabbed him, “What are you doing?!” 

“Hub! Make sure Shadow Man doesn’t escape!” Lan shouted as his father rushed to call for security. 

“On it!” Hub yelled as he rushed after the ninja Navi who was also caught off guard by the other twin. 

Dusk let out a yell as he tried to pull Lan off him as Hub fired his Mega Buster at Shadow Man. Shadow Man quickly disappeared to avoid the blasters, but Dusk fell into the lab with Lan trying to crawl over him! 

“Get off me!” he shouted as Lan clung onto his shirt. 

“Why are you doing this?!” Lan exclaimed as Dusk growled in a frustrated manner. 

Shadow Man reappeared behind Hub as he drew his katana. Hub had no choice but to dodge and roll away from the strike. He looked over his shoulder to see Shadow Man had disappeared. He gasped before leaning away from an incoming shuriken and running the other way! 

“Can’t attack me, Mega Man?” Shadow Man taunted as he failed to realize that Hub was charging up his Mega Buster. 

With Shadow Man caught off guard, Hub pivot, aimed his buster, and then fired at Shadow Man! Shadow Man gasped as he raised his katana to block the incoming beam. He couldn’t block the entire blast and was knocked back! Shadow Man hit the ground with a thud as Hub stepped on his chest and aimed his charging buster at him. 

“So, is this it, or do you want to talk with me?” he asked with his eyes narrowed.

Shadow Man sighed as he leaned his head back and raised his hands up in defeat. 

“Dusk, I believe this is it” Shadow Man said as he conceded defeat. 

Dusk sighed as he knew better than to fight a reckless, stubborn, and childish Lan, and Hub already had his Navi down. Dusk conceded defeat as Lan noticed he wasn’t fighting him anymore. Lan looked up at his friend who sighed and raised his hands up. 

“Dusk? Why are you not fighting me anymore?” Lan asked curiously. 

“Because there is no point anymore” Dusk answered annoyed and tired as he rubbed his aching head, “My target already fled, so I have no need to fight you. Also, you have Shadow Man”

“I do?!” Lan exclaimed as Hub, Shadow Man, and Dusk sighed in defeat at him. 

It was sometimes hard to believe that Lan was the one who helped save the world. Just sometimes. Dr. Hikari finally returned with security guards both in person and over the NET! Dusk was surprised as Lan jumped to Dusk’s defense. 

“Papa! You can’t take Dusk away!” Lan defended as Hub stood away from Shadow Man to let the guards surround him without hesitation. 

“Lan, he’s caused enough trouble for the lab, attacked your friends, you, and your brother. He’s going to jail for this” Dr. Hikari said seriously as Lan shook his head. 

He wasn’t going to let a former ally go to jail, but another person sighed and entered the room. 

“Master, I think we have to tell them the truth” a familiar voice said with a yawn, “Let’s just get it over with before our employers arrive” 

Everyone turned to him as another Navi arrived and swung his scythe to blow the guards from Shadow Man and Hub. 

“You!” Lan and Hub shouted surprised as they faced the Operator and Navi before them. 

As for Raika and Dingo, they were running into the crowd and reached the other end of the street to catch their breaths. Dingo was on the floor as Raika had his hands on his knees and was recovering. He looked at his hands to see the navy chip. It wasn’t harmed, but he wondered why Dusk wanted it. 

“Oh man! We ran for so long!” Dingo wailed in defeat, “Why does this keep happening to us?! Also, why does someone want that chip?! I thought it was broken!” 

Raika wasn’t sure as he flipped the chip to look over it. The chip wasn’t fully completed and didn’t work properly. Why would someone want this? He shook his head until he felt his PET buzz and reached for it. 

“What is it, Search Man?” Raika asked as he looked at his Navi partner. 

“I have just been informed that Lan and Mega Man have taken Dusk and Shadow Man into custody” Search Man informed his operator, “There is also another assassin there as well, but he is a good friend to the Hikaris. I don’t not believe we have anything to worry about” 

Raika was relieved, but he also wasn’t sure. 

“Eh? But if someone hired Dusk to steal the chip, why?” Dingo asked aloud as he sat up and shook his head.  

Raika knew that was a question he would like to have answered as well. He looked around for anything out of the ordinary. So far, no one was chasing them, so Raika decided to take Dingo into a shop and recover from the attack. They entered an antique shop and found themselves looking at the many antiques around themselves before Raika held up his PET to scan the navy chip and have Search Man examine to then reach out to Lan and Mega Man. 

As for Dingo, he was examining everything and poking it as it he mumbled, “What is this old stuff?” 

“This old stuff are the goods I trade” a creepy, calm voice spoke from behind Dingo. 

“Ah!” he screamed before he swung his tomahawk. 

Raika gasped in a worried manner until the lady swiftly ducked and grabbed Dingo’s arm to stop him from waving the tomahawk around. Dingo was still screaming as Raika shook his head at his friend. 

“She’s a witch!” Dingo shouted as Raika rubbed his head and marched up to them. 

“I am sorry about him” Raika said with a shake of his head, “He’s an idiot. We were trying to get away from the busy crowd and found your shop. He will not touch nor break anything, I promise” 

Raika took Dingo from her and put a hand on Dingo’s head to make him bow to her. She held a calm expression as she gazed at the pair. She has teal hair tied in two braids and has a black hat with purple with a skull symbol in the center. She is wearing a black dress with light brown stitches on the sides. She has long, black pants and long dark purple boots. 

“Why is she still starring at us?” Dingo whispered in a not so loud tone as Raika sighed at him. 

“Please be quiet!” Raika harshly whispered to then putting his hand on Dingo who let out a pained yell before jumping on him! 

The two of them argued as she stared and sighed at the pair. 

“It seems to me that you need help” she answered simply, “As a friend of Lan’s, I suppose I can lend my aid to you” 

She turned to her desk as both stopped fighting and turned their attention to her. They were surprised she knew their friend and discovering she had a PET as well! She summoned Skull Man, her Navi, and clasped her hands together. She ponders in silence as both watch her curiously. She opened her eyes and hummed to herself before Skull Man lunges at Tomahawk Mand and Search Man! 

“Hey! What gives?!” Tomawhawk Man shouted as he held his tomahawk in front of himself to block against the strike from Skull Man who threw his bones at him!

“Search Man! Back up Tomahawk Man!” Raika shouted when he realized his friend was attacked. 

“Understood!” Search Man said as he drew his sniper and fired at Skull Man! 

Raika focused on her as he demanded, “Who are you and how do you know Lan?!” 

“He’s a friend who often battled Skull Man” she answered, “I am the owner of this shop as well as a Net OP who observes the dangers of the city. Though, my job was taken from me by Lan and his friends. Not that I am upset with that. Now, I sense you are in danger” 

“Yes! We are in grave danger!” Dingo shouted as he waved his arms up and down. 

She pondered on their predicament before turning to her PET. She sighed before channeling her powers and searching through their minds. Dingo let out a panicked yell while Raika was stunned. With a clap of her hands, a dark, blue mist covered Dingo! Raika coughed as he heard his tomahawk, PET, and the navy chip fall to the floor with a clatter. When it cleared, Raika’s eyes were wide. 

“DINGO?!” Raika shouted in disbelief as he saw his friend transformed into a dark red Dingo dog! 

“Raika?” Dingo asked confused before releasing her wasn’t holding everything in his hands. 

He gazed down and tried to reach for his items only to discover that he had paws! He let out a surprised bark before turning his head to Raika. 

“What happened to me?!” Dingo shouted as Raika’s eyes were wide. 

Even he wasn’t sure what happened. He went to pick up Dingo’s PET and tomahawk along with the chip. 

“I don’t know!” Raika confessed before turning to her, “What did you do to my friend?” 

“A dog” she answered simply, “Easier for you to escape from your incoming troubles” 

Raika was perplexed until he put everything in his pockets. He looked outside of the store to see people in black outfits coming after them. He groaned as he realized what he had to do. He took off his hat too and then searched for something to tie around Dingo’s neck. 

“Raika? What are we going to do?” Dingo asked unsure of what he was even going to do about this. 

The Sharo soldier found a rope and quickly wrapped it around Dingo’s neck before checking the area outside through the windows. He nodded before turning to Dingo the dingo. 

“You need to act like a dog” Raika informed him as he pointed his finger at him, “Do not ruin this for us. We are going to walk out of here, and you will be a dog until we get back to the lab. Do you understand?” 

“Uh, sure?” Dingo asked as he tilted his head to the side. 

Raika sighed in relief before petting Dingo’s head and then turning to the lady. Both faced her as she nodded her head. 

“They will be dealt with” she answered simply, “You should be able to leave without too much trouble, I believe” 

Raika and Dingo shared a look before nodding to each other. They stepped out of the store as she held her PET.

“Skull Man, please inform Mega Man and Lan of this. There is a darkness coming and those two will be our only hope” she said quietly before stepping away and heading towards the back of her counter. 

“Understood! This is going to be a fun adventure for everyone, Miyu!” Skull Man said before disappearing into the NET. 

“Indeed” Miyu replied quietly before putting the PET away to appear as if she was busy with running her shop. 

Raika and Dingo were walking through the streets and avoiding the people wearing black suits and glasses. They didn’t want to be found, but they had to find a way back to the lab without being suspicious nor caught. So far, it was working well for them. They appeared to be a normal teenager walking his dog. They continued to walk until one roughly bumped into Dingo! 

“Hey! Watch it!” Dingo barked before realizing his mistake. 

Raika internally sighed as the person forcefully grabbed his shoulder to turn him around. He was faced with a man who had a pair of black sunglasses and glaring at him. 

“What did you say?” he asked in a robotic tone as Raika sighed at what he was about to do next. 

Raika headbutted him and dropped the leash. 

“Run! Stay close to me!” Raika ordered before he swept the legs for the person in front of him to fall! 

He grunted when he hit the ground as Raika and Dingo took off. The rest of the people in black suits gave chase to them as Raika held his PET. 

“Tomahawk Man! Until Dingo is back to normal, please follow my instructions. Slow down the men in black!” Raika ordered. 

“Understood!” Tomahawk Man said as he appeared in the NET, “For once, it would be nice to have an Operate who makes a plan! Tomahawk Swing!”

He swung his tomahawk to strike a pillar of data. He made the pipes burst underneath the sidewalk just as Raika and Dingo ran over it. Then, Raika took out his PET for the next phase of his plan. 

“Search Man! Find us an escape route” Raika ordered as he and Dingo turned a corner to find themselves at the train station. 

“Hey! This will take us further away from the lab!” Dingo barked. 

“I know, but for now, we have to do this. We can’t led them to lab nor let them be aware of what we have!” Raika explained while Search Man searched through the train’s schedule to find a possible train for them to escape on. 

They were standing at the platform and looking over the railing to see the trains coming and going from the yard. They could hear people shouting from behind and turned to see the people in black suits coming after them! 

“Search Man!” Raika shouted before looking at the departing train and then at Dingo. 

“I am still searching” Search Man replied as Raika had an idea. 

They were running out of time, so Raika took off his jacket to tie the outside part around his waist tightly. He then made sure the PETs and the chip were secured before grabbing Dingo. Raika gazed at the fleeing train as he took a deep breath in. 

“Wait, Raika? What are you about to do?” Dingo asked nervously. 

“Something you and Lan would attempt” Raika answered as he made sure Dingo was in his arms, “Sorry in advance” 

Raika took a few steps back before running towards the railing! Dingo let out a panicked howl before Raika jumped! He landed on the railing for a moment to then jumping off with all his might! Dingo howled in fear as Raika held in his scream. Then, they hit the moving train with a thud and rolled on it. A few passengers jumped as both looked up to see the men in black suits starring at them with an expression of disbelief. Dingo let out a howl of delight while Raika sighed in relief as he leaned on his hands. They managed to get away, but not for long. He hoped Lan would find them before their enemies do. Speaking of their enemies, just who were they this time?

Chapter Text

“What do you mean they escaped?!” a frustrated voice exclaimed as another sighed. 

There were four people standing in the room as one was frustrated while the other three were annoyed. They were in a curry restaurant as their main chief was in utter disbelief at what he was told. 

“You mean to tell me, you attacked Scilab and want us to come and bail you out of jail?!” Yahoot, their main chief exclaimed. 

He is a tall, dark-skinned man wearing an orange outfit with his Navi’s symbol on his chest. He has bands wrapped around his wrists and ankles. He has brown sandals while holding his orange PET. 

“Let’s not forget that he sent his underlings in as well” their fiery repair man added with a thick Scottish accent as he was sitting in a booth and next to their female worker who has pink, spiky pigtails. 

He has red hair tied into a ponytail and a small beard. He is wearing a red, leather jacket, black pants, and simple shoes. He has red eyes as he shakes his head at their situation. 

“How did you mess up an order so badly?!” she exclaimed at the PET, “Do you know how much trouble we are in?! Not to mention the trouble it could cause our great leader, Dr. Wily?!” 

She has makeup and earrings on. She is wearing a white shirt with orange sleeves and her Navi’s symbol on her chest. She’s got blue jeans and simple sneakers. She wasn’t too happy either. 

“I haven’t finished explaining just yet” Dusk said seriously, “There is a reason for everything. Did you forget that?” 

“Hard to find a when you pulled something like this off” a third member replied who handled the electricity in the restaurant with his wife. 

He has yellow hair slicked back and a pair of yellow eyes. He’s wearing a dark, yellow suit and bright yellow headphones. His wife was standing next to him, also holding an annoyed expression. she a purple hat with lightbulbs on it. She is wearing a yellow dress with a white ribbon around her neck. She has brown hair and purple eyes as she shook her head. 

“My student was the one who wanted the chip” Dusk answered, frustration in his voice that silenced everyone in the shop. 

“WHAT!?” they shouted in disbelief at the PET. 

“Why would that brat want the chip?!” Mr. Match, the man in red, asked in disbelief.

“Did Dr. Wily call this in?!” Maddy, the girl in orange, asked with astonishment. 

“He could’ve!” the Elec couple exclaimed. 

“I am unsure if it was him, but for now, we need that chip” Dusk ordered, “But I would appreciate if someone were to get me out of this cell’ 

“Can’t you get out yourself?” Mr. Match snapped as Mrs. Elec asked, “But who took the chip?” 

“Dingo and Raika” Dusk answered as he ignored Mr. Match completely. 

They were surprised to hear those names, but they were also relieved Lan’s name wasn’t stated. Though, they did have a funny feeling he would be here soon enough. 

“Alright, then we will pay for your bail, but we should find those kids” Yahoot stated as he got everyone back on track. 

“My husband and I can get Dusk” Mrs. Elec offered with Mr. Elec agreeing. 

“That leaves you two to track down Raika and Dingo” Yahoot said as he turned to Maddy and Mr. Match. 

Both jumped at this and shouted, “WHY DO I HAVE TO WORK WITH HIM/HER?!” 

They didn’t hesitate to glare at each other while the Elecs decided to depart to the police station to gather Dusk. Yahoot rubbed his brow at them before shaking his head. 

“Because I still have a store to run” he reminded, “And I will act as communication. I believe it would be best if someone were to stay behind in case something happens. I want everyone to be up to date about what is transpiring” 

Both were quiet but they weren’t happy about this either way. 

“You can take the delivery cart” Yahoot said as Magic Man appeared from his Navi, “And I suggest you pick up the pace” 

“Why is that?” Mr. Match asked annoyed. 

“Because they boarded a train that is taking them further and further away from the city” Magic Man answered before sending the information to their PETs. 

Mr. Match grumbled with a frustrated tone before marching out of the restaurant with Maddy sighing at their predicament. She followed Mr. Match to the small, yellow delivery car. They put on their seatbelts before Mr. Match transmitted his Navi, Torch Man, to the car’s NET. 

“Alright, calculate the fastest and most efficient route for us to find those kids before that manic of a child does!” Mr. Match ordered before taking the wheel and driving. 

“Understood!” Torch Man replied before pulling up the map and searching for the best route. 

Maddy held her PET before tapping the side of her cheek. Something about this seemed off. Why would Dusk’s apprentice steal this? Who was his contractor this time? And where is the kid now? 

Said kid was standing in the distance from the jailhouse and saw his mentor leaving with the Elec couple. 

“Tch, that’s annoying” he grumbled before pulling out his PET, “Killer Man, where is that chip?” 

His Navi appeared in the screen and laughed wickedly, “It was on a train, departing to the south of the city” 

Kirisaki groaned as he held a deadpanned expression after hearing all this. It was supposed to be a simple mission. Grab the chip, delivery it to his client, and then return it. Why does everyone have to butt in and make his job more complicated than it needed to be?! 

“So, what are we going to do?” Killer Man asked excitedly, “Are we gonna kill them?!” 

“No, but I want to” Kirisaki answered annoyed, “Instead, we’ve got to get the chip back without hurting them. 

He has dark, navy hair and is wearing a black suit with a purple tie and outlines. He has a pair of purple pants and simple purple shoes. He has tired, black eyes as he rubbed his head. 

This was going to be a long couple of days. He could feel it. He turned away from his master and his coworkers before deciding to find a ride and chase after the two Net Saviors who held the chip. 

“Killer Man find me a ride” Kirisaki ordered, “We’ve got work to do” 

“Will do!” Killer Man said excitedly as he disappeared into the NET while Kirisaki continued to walk. 

As for the Elec couple and Dusk, they decided to return to SciLab and found it to be in some chaos. This is better than average where it is mostly in chaos. 

“Ah! Dusk! Why are you back?!” Lan exclaimed before turning to the Elec couple, “Oh, I didn’t order curry, but if you have any, I’ll gladly take it!” 

Count Zap glared at him while Miss Elec shook her head. 

“Actually, I had a reason for being here” Dusk said as he crossed his arms over his chest, “And if you won’t attack me, I’ll gladly explain the reason” 

Lan let out a nervous laugh before nodding his head in understanding. Hub appeared in the NET before Shadow Man who was holding an annoyed and tired expression. 

“What?! Kirisaki is back?!” Lan asked in disbelief as he jumped, “But why is he here? That’s a long way from home!” 

“I intercepted a transmission” Dusk answered, “He was assigned to take a chip from your father that he was working on. His client is unknown now, but I believe he is a friend of mine at least” 

Lan was curious about the person while Hub pondered on Killer Man. They were unsure in the end, but Lan realized something. 

“Hey! Wait! Then, Raika and Dingo still have the chip?! Where are they?!” Lan exclaimed as he looked at Hub. 

“I do not know” Dusk replied, “I’ve asked some former comrades of mine to search for them. They will find, protect, and bring them here” 

Lan shook his head as he turned to the doors. He prepared to bolt after them, but Dusk quickly grabbed his vest to suspend him above the floor! Lan was struggling and screaming before being pulled to face Dusk. 

“Calm down” he said calmly, “You cannot charge into a fight when a plan is in motion. Simply wait and be prepared for the rest of it” 

Hub sighed at his twin brother while Shadow Man remained alert. Lan then turned to the Elec couple who were staring at him in a perplexed manner. 

“Why are you here?” Lan asked curiously. 

“We are the comrades, Lan” Count Zap answered annoyed, “We are looking for them” 

Lan was surprised and relived as he grinned while Dusk let go of the boy to have him land on his butt.

“So, I don’t have to worry then! Thank you!” Lan said in relief before realizing, “Oh! Will you let me know when they do arrive here, right?” 

“Yes, yes we will” Dusk answered with the Elec couple staring at each other. 

Miss Elec whispered surprised, “You lost to him?” 

“Yes, yes I did” Count Zap answered with a sigh as they watched Lan happily chatting with Dusk, “But in a sense, maybe that is fine” 

They stayed with Lan who was grinning excitedly as Dusk nodded his head at him with a calm expression.

Chapter Text

When the train stopped, Raika carried Dingo and jumped behind the train to then walk to the station. Raika sat on the stone floor to catch his breathe while Dingo ran around in excitement. 

“We survived and have the chip!” Dingo barked in joy, “I can’t believe it, but I can also believe it!” 

Raika simply shook his head as he checked his jacket to make sure the card was present along with their PETs. He sighed in relief before holding Search Man’s PET. 

“Search Man, where are we?” Raika asked simply. 

It took him a few seconds, but Search Man replied, “We are in the countryside of the city. We are far away from it. We would need to take the train again” 

“So, let’s board this one and go back!” Dingo suggested simply before scratching his ears, “It shouldn’t be heard, right?” 

Tomahawk Man shook his head as he answered, “Except this train comes and goes every two days. I have a feeling Dr. Hikari would want that chip back sooner than that” 

“Ah! Then, what do you recommend we do now?” Dingo asked with a growl. 

“Right now, we should find a vehicle that we can operate and take us back to the city” Raika answered simply, “We need to head back to the city and make sure they’re safe” 

Dingo simply nodded his head as he followed Raika who put their PETs away and searched for anything they could use to make the journey back to the lab. However, they didn’t find anything nor anyone who could take them back to the city. 

“Oh, so what should we do now?” Dingo whimpered with his ears dropping and tail dropping. 

Raika sighed before turning forward with a determined expression to reply, “We walk” 

Dingo jumped before shaking his head and nodding it. They walked to the path that would take them through the deep forest. Well, that was the only way back to their friends. 

“Let’s get going” Raika said simply before walking through the forest with Dingo behind him. 

So far, it appeared to be a simple forest. Nothing out of the ordinary. Dingo was walking ahead of Raika who was holding to his PET and examining the map. Although it took them a while, they will be able to arrive in the city in no time. 

“Do you think we can take some breaks?” Dingo asked curiously. 

“I don’t think so” Raika said with a nod of his head, “We shouldn’t delay. I don’t want to take chances either” 

Dingo sulked before walking on ahead though he shook his head. 

“Why am I dog?” he wondered aloud. 

“I don’t know” Raika confessed, “But that lady knows Lan, so perhaps she knows a reason as to why, but even then, I am not entirely sure” 

Dingo sulked and stopped as Raika gazed at his friend with a curious expression. Raika kneeled beside his friend who whimpered. It was rare to ever see Dingo down. Raika hoped to help his friend. 

“But does this mean I have to eat dog food?” he wondered as Raika’s eyes were wide. 

He wasn’t expecting this, but in hindsight, he should’ve known better. Dingo tends to think with stomach as opposed to his head. Well, at least being a dog didn’t get him as down as he thought. 

“I don’t think so, but just to be safe, I will feed you food that dogs can eat that will not be harmful to you” Raika reassured him before looking around. 

They were still in the woods, so Raika couldn’t order food. He would have to make something. That was going to be difficult. For all his skills of combat, Net battling, and fencing, he couldn’t cook much. He held his PET to check the time. Well, they could do for some food. 

“Alright, then let’s make something to eat” Raika suggested with Dingo happily yapping in delight. 

Raika took off his satchel to open it. He pulled out some snacks and opened it. He wasn’t sure which one to feed Dingo yet, but Dingo sniffed one bag of crackers. He licked his lips to then chomping on the crackers in delight. Raika was relieved, but he glanced at his other snacks. This wouldn’t be enough for the both of them. 

“What’s up?” Dingo asked as he looked up from his meal and grinned. 

“I am worried about our food supplies” Raika confessed, “I know it would be easier for us to make it on foot than waiting for the train, but I didn’t think about food. We should have enough water. Search Man, I think I have a plan” 

“What is it?” Dingo asked curiously. 

“Search Man could go on ahead and try to find someone through the NET” Raika said as he held his PET, “That way, we can have someone track us” 

Dingo nodded his head before scratching his ear, “Ok, but can you handle Tomhawk Man? And you can’t use Cross Fusion either. Wouldn’t it be better to send back my Navi? I can’t even use him” 

Raika didn’t think of that, but Search Man and Tomahawk Man joined in. 

“While that is true, we are against time” Search Man pointed out, “Between our stats, I am faster than Tomahawk Man” 

“Sad truth of it” Tomahawk Man teased before adding, “But we need to make sure the others find us and the chip before we get caught. I am fine with this. Also, I can do something to help too! It isn’t just about Cross Fusion!”

Dingo tilted his head from side-to-side before barking in agreement. Raika was relieved too before holding both PETs. 

“Alright, then we are in agreement” he said with a nod of his head, “Search Man, go!” 

He took Search Man’s PET and cast it towards the NET to have his Navi reach their friends. Raika focused on Dingo who was holding a hopeful expression about their situation. 

“Well, I should get some food. You should stay here” Raika said as he looked around for anything that they could eat and store. 

“Are you sure?” Dingo asked as he tilted his head to the side, “I can help!” 

Raika shook his head, “One of us needs to remain here and watch our camp and supplies. We can’t lose it” 

Dingo pouted and used his big, dog eyes to try and sway Raika. It almost worked, except Raika remembered that the dog is still Dingo. However, Dingo’s big, brown pleading eyes were working on him, too well. Raika had no choice but to turn around and focus on the task at hand. 

“That is an order, Dingo” Raika said seriously, “Now stay and let me handle finding food” 

He marched away as Dingo groaned at being left behind. He wanted to do something, but what could he do?! He was still a dog! He looked at their supplies and knew better than to mess with it. Well, he could patrol! 

“Yeah! I’ll keep watch!” Dingo said determinedly as he jumped to his feet and shook himself. 

He circled the campsite and felt proud of himself for thinking of something productive to do. 

“When Raika comes back, he will be so proud of me!” Dingo said with a proud expression until he took a step and fell! 

He let out a panicked howl as he found himself rolling and falling. He crashed into a lower area of the forest and whimpered in pain. He picked himself up and checked himself to make sure he wasn’t hurt too bad. He licked a few wounds before shaking himself to get some twigs and branches off his fur. 

“Geez, that was smart. Why didn’t you warn me, Tomahawk Man?!” Dingo exclaimed until he realized that his Navi wasn’t with him! 

He groaned at that and turned around to see where he fell. He saw the slippery slope along the side of the hill. Dingo knew he couldn’t make it up the hill as a human…. But he isn’t human! 

“I’m a dog! I could probably make this!” Dingo barked happily as he took a stance. 

He took a running start and tried to run up the slippery hill only to lose his footing and slip! He slid down the hill again and found himself back at the bottom. He picked himself up and shook off as much of the mud off as he could. He took the same stance again and tried to run up the hill, but he got the same result. 

He let himself slide down the hill before mumbling, “What is the point of having four legs if you can’t even climb up hills?” 

Dingo blew out some air before sitting up and looking at the slope. Well, if he couldn’t climb up the slope, then he would have to find another way up. 

“How hard can it be to find another path?” Dingo wondered as he set out to find another path back to their supplies. 

As Dingo searched for another way back to the campsite, Raika found a stream. He took off his coat and boots. He rolled up his sleeves on his pants and shirt before stepping into the calm river. He searched for fishes and went to hunting. He left Dingo’s PET with his coat as he looked at Raika. 

“This won’t take long, right?” Tomahawk Man asked with concern. 

“I don’t think so, why?” Raika asked before realizing the Navi’s worries, “I wouldn’t worry about Dingo. I don’t think he would something foolish for a while. We also need food, and we know he loves to eat” 

Tomahawk Man wasn’t too sure about that entirely. He knew the trouble his Operator could get himself into. He could only imagine it right now. Raika watched one fish swim between his legs before he lunged to grab it. He grinned at it before walking back to his belongings. He picked up a stick to stab it into the fish’s body and hold it for him. 

“There, we only need three more and then we will be done” Raika reassured the Navi, “There is no way Dingo could’ve gotten himself into trouble in the short amount of time” 

He went back to searching for the fish and grinned when he saw a few more approaching him. Tomahawk Man hoped Raika was correct, but he also knows his Operator. He would be in trouble sooner or later. 

“Seriously, how big is this forest?!” Dingo growled before trudging through the muddy paths. 

He didn’t think he would be this long of a search for the campsite. He was panting withs his tongue out to cool himself down. He continued to walk until he found himself approaching a flooded area. He sniffed the water and noticed the hair on his back was standing up. 

“What is going on?” Dingo wondered as he barked and looked at the area before him. 

He noticed something moving in the water and found himself hearing snoring and whistling. 

“Wait a second…” Dingo nervously whispered as his tail fell with his ears. 

He lowered his gaze and gulped. Just like he thought. These were bears! He slowly took a few steps back and stepped on a twig! He let out a surprised yell before shutting his mouth and turned around to not see the bears moving. 

“Oh, thank goodness” he whispered until he noticed a bird was perched on a branch that was holding an apple, “Oh, hello!”

Dingo was happy to see an animal that is not a bear. 

“Hey! Can you help me?!” Dingo barked warmly at the bird, “I am lost. Could you please find a way back to my campsite. My friend should be getting back soon enough” 

The bird was holding their head to the left and stared at him. 

“What is it?” Dingo asked curiously. 

He was expecting the bird to be helpful. The opposite happened. The bird began to peck at the stem of the apples! Dingo panicked as his ears were perked and eyes were wide! Why was the bird doing this to him?! 

“Why are you doing this?!” Dingo barked as he jumped to his paws. 

“I recognize your voice” the bird tweeted with a glare, “You were the boy who threw his weapon into the air!” 

Dingo tilted his head from the side as he recalled that. He did throw his tomahawk into the air and tried to use it to guide him to Scilab. He did hear people screaming, but he was used to that. He didn’t realize he scared the birds. 

“Please, please don’t do it!” Dingo pleaded as the bird continued to peck. 

The bird didn’t stop and broke the apple from the tree! The apple fell into the river with a loud “plop”, but it didn’t wake up the bears! Dingo was trembling with delight before he turned to the bird. 

“Ha!” he barked loudly until he realized his mistake. 

His tail and ears fell as he heard loud growling all around him. He whimpered as the bears slowly surrounded him. None of them were happy about being woken up from their nap. Dingo let out a nervous yelp as he slowly backed away from them. 

“Uh, I am sorry?” he offered as the bears were still coming after him.

Dingo sighed as he swiftly turned around, let out a panicked howl, and ran with all his might! He howled as he ran with the bears following him! 

“Someone save me!” Dingo howled as he continued to run and avoid the incoming bears. 

He let out barks and howls, hoping someone would hear him and come to his rescue. 

Raika sighed in relief as he was carrying four fishes back to the campsite. He couldn’t wait to cook this too, but he nearly dropped the fish when he didn’t see Dingo. 

“I told you so” Tomahawk Man spoke from the PET. 

“But how did this even happen?” Raika asked frustrated as he put the fish down and checked to make sure the PET and chip were in his coat. 

Before Tomahawk Man could answer, they heard Dingo howling and barking! Raika bolted after his friend and listened to his howls and barks. He looked pass the trees and at the ground to see Dingo’s tracks. Raika sighed as he continued to run and noticed bears were also in the woods. He saw the claw marks and scratches. 

“How did he upset bears?” Raika wondered aloud, frustrated. 

“This is Dingo. He must’ve eaten their honey or berries” Tomahawk Man said unamused as Raika rolled his eyes. 

He continued to run and saw bears in front of him! How on earth did Dingo do this?! Now that he thinks about it, how is he supposed to save him from bears?! He shook his head to focus on the task before him. There is always a solution to their situation. He looked at the path beside him to see it wet and slippery. He groaned before jumping into the mud and sliding across it! 

“Woah! Are you sure about this?!” Tomahawk Man shouted in the PET as Raika grunted before sliding across the mud to slip pass the bears to then closing in on Dingo! 

Dingo was running, but he was getting tired. He wasn’t sure how long he could keep this up for. 

“Dingo!” Raika shouted as he turned to Dingo’s side, “Jump!” 

Dingo looked around until he turned his attention to the incoming Raika! 

“What are you doing?!” Dingo asked surprised. 

“Something idiotic. Jump!” Raika shouted as he held his arms out for Dingo to jump into. 

Dingo turned around to see the bears closing in and nodded. His head to jump with all his might into Raika’s arms! Dingo licked Raika’s face in relief as he sighed. He was relieved his friend was safe and away from the bears. Dingo was so happy to be with his friend again. Unfortunately, both were distracted. 

“Dingo! Raika!” Tomahawk Man shouted with worry, “I don’t think we are out of the woods yet!” 

“Ha! Nice one!” Dingo commented as Raika moved Dingo’s fur out of his face and gasped. 

They were coming up on the edge of a cliff! His grip tightened on Dingo and made sure the PET and chip were secure. 

“Dingo! Hang on!” Raika shouted as he prepared themselves. 

Dingo was confused until he faced forward and let out a howl of freight. Before them was the edge of the cliff! Raika screamed as well as they were tossed over the edge! They could feel the air knocked out of their lungs as they were falling. Raika searched for anything to help themselves and found a weak tree branch. He quickly grasped it and held it tightly. 

“Gah!” Raika winced as he grabbed the branch and sighed in relief as they finally stopped falling. 

“Raika! You did it!” Dingo shouted in relief as he barked at his friend. 

Raika only nodded his head before he adjusted his vision to see himself facing a stone wall. He was surprised as he looked over his shoulder to see another stone wall! They were between two stony hills! How was he going to get themselves out of this now?!

Chapter Text

“Where are they?!” Mr. Match exclaimed as Maddy shook her head while holding her PET. 

“How should I know?! We don’t have the World 3 satellites anymore! I can’t track anyone nor anything anymore!” she snapped, “Wacko Man, do you see them?!” 

Mr. Match raised a brow before pondering on her words. Her Navi was in the NET and searching for the Net Saviors. Wacko Man was searching through the NET for anything about the two Net Saviors, but so far, they couldn’t find anything. 

“Where could they be?” Wacko Man wondered aloud before bouncing into another area of the NET. 

He jumped on the ball and bounced happily upward to observe their area. He looked around and sighed before falling back to his ball and holding a gloomy expression. Maddy sighed with a shake of her head as Mr. Match hummed in a worried manner before parking the vehicle at the station. They didn’t see any people at the station, much to their confusion. 

“Where is everyone?” Maddy wondered aloud as Mr. Match parked the vehicle and then walked out to search for anyone. 

He held his PET with Torch Man returning to it. He looked around and shook his head before looking at the train’s map. They found a Jack-In port for it and sent Torch Man in. Torch Man pulled up a schedule and presented it before his Operator. 

“Interesting” Mr. Match said before shouting, “Looks like the train comes every two days. Right now, it is a day between it, so no one is here because of this schedule. I think it is safe to assume that these two used the train!” 

“But then how are they going to get back?” Maddy asked confused.

Sure, Raika has military training, but how did he convince Dingo to walk back to the station? How did he mange that? Wacko Man jumped into the NET and gasped in delight. 

“They were here!” Wacko Man shouted in delight, “They did arrive at the station before leaving on foot into the forest!” 

Maddy and Mr. Match were glancing at each other, surprised about this. 

“Do you think you can track them through the forest? I don’t think the NET is too close” Maddy pointed out unsure. 

Mr. Match shook his head before he returned to the vehicle before driving it into the train tracks. He drove as fast as he could with Maddy holding on for dear life as she took his PET. 

“WHAT ARE YOU THINKING?!” she exclaimed as she made sure their Navis were in the NET of the vehicle. 

“Those kids are deep in the forest and have a day time’s ahead of us” Mr. Match explained, “We need to find them and make sure no one else is after them. After all, they could get lost in that forest” 

Maddy groaned as she made sure to hold on. Though, Mr. Match wasn’t wrong. Besides them, Shuuichi went to the station and had Killer Man search the cameras. He growled at the camera footage showing Raika and a dog jumping on top of a train’s roof before it departed into the countryside. 

“Sure, it would be boring if this was easy” Shuuichi commented with an annoyed expression before returning Killer Man to his PET, “You know, I am going about this differently. I need to make this easier and fun” 

“In what way?” Killer Man asked curiously in a delightful manner. 

“Call off the grunts” Shuuichi said with a smirk, “I know what we should do next. Go to the source of it all” 

Killer Man only laughed when he saw his Operator’s smirk. This only happened whenever he was going to get involved into a tough, fun fight that would involve the death of their enemies. Shuuichi turned his attention to Scilab, intending to meet with Lan and Hub. 

“WHAT DO WE DO?! WHAT DO WE DO?!” Dingo barked and howled as he and Raika were standing against the stony sides of the hills. 

It was raining too, so that wasn’t helping their situation. Raika wasn’t sure how he would get themselves out of this situation if he was panicking. 

“Dingo!” Tomahawk Man shouted as he gained his Operator’s attention, “You need to calm down! We are in a delicate situation! We cannot do anything if you keep panicking like this!”

Dingo was panting as he was trying to keep himself calm. Raika was relieved that his Navi was able to get through to him. Now, they just have to work together and get themselves out of here. 

“Raika, do you have a plan?” Tomahawk Man asked calmly. 

The Sharo soldier pondered this as he noticed a broken branch wasn’t far from them. If he could reach it, Dingo should be able to climb over his shoulder and then he would be safe. 

“Dingo” Raika spoke softly, “We have to climb this together” 

His friend was worried as Raika tried his best to reassure him.

“I know this looks bad but trust me” Raika said as he looked at the branch, “There is a branch. We can use it to grab and climb ourselves out of here. You can even go first, but only when I grab it. Do you understand?” 

He glanced at Dingo who slowly nodded his head. 

“Ok, then let’s do this one step at a time” Raika encouraged as he prepared to take a step, “You ready to take the first step?” 

“Y-yeah!” Dingo barked in agreement as he tried to compose himself. 

“Alright, then let’s do this together. Now” Raika said gently as he and Dingo took a step together. 

Tomahawk Man held his breath as they continued to climb up the stony walls. Slowly, but surely, they were approaching the branch. 

“Good job” Raika said calmly, “We are almost there” 

He slowly tried to reach his hand out for the branch once he was closer to it. Dingo slowly nodded his head as they were taking these steps together. They took a few more steps before Raika sighed in relief and grabbed the broken branch. He gave it a tug to ensure it was safe for him to use. 

Once he was sure, he looked over his shoulder, “Ok, you’re good to – Ow! Dingo! Slow down!” 

Dingo was quick and pounced from the stony wall to then jumping on Raika’s stomach to then using his mouth to grab the broken branch! 

“Oh! Finally! Freedom and safety!” Dingo barked in relief as Raika breathe out the pain. 

He then pulled himself to the branch and towards the other healthier branches in the tree. He barked in relief as his entire body shook the tree to have ants fall from it! They were unaware as the ants fell into Raika’s clothing and crawled around until he let out a terrified scream! 

“What?! What is it?!” Dingo asked as he turned around. 

He expected Raika to be climbing after him, but he was surprised to see his friend shaking and struggling to hold the branch. Something was wrong with his friend, but Dingo really didn’t want to leave the comfort of his tree. 

As for Raika, he was shaking his body and trying to get the ants off him. He could feel the ants biting his skin as he tried to shake them off. He was distracted by the ants that he didn’t notice his grip was slipping from the branch! 

“No!” Raika shouted in worry as he found his grip slipping! 

He prepared himself to fall, but he felt something bite into the sleeve of his green shirt. He gasped in relief as he saw Dingo biting the sleeve and pulling him up with all his might! Raika refocused and slowly climbed up the stony side. Dingo carefully walked backwards to then pulling Raika up. Soon, both were safely on top of the hill and exhausted. Raika laid on his back and checked his coat’s pockets to feel both PETs and chip. Dingo laid on his stomach, panting heavily. 

“We’re alive…” Raika said in relief. 

“Somehow… I really question that sometimes” Dingo confessed with a huff. 

Raika finally let exhaustion hit his body before shaking his head at his friend. 

“For now, let’s rest” Raika said in a tired manner, “We’ve got enough work ahead of us. We would be better recovering our strength” 

He glanced at Dingo to see him already asleep. Raika sighed in relief to then allowing himself a chance to sleep. He pulled the coat over himself and Dingo for warmth before finally let sleep take him. 

“I am almost there…” Search Man whispered as he finally found himself in the NET and almost reaching his destination. 

He could see Navis going about their days and approaching other buildings and structures in the distance. Without taking a moment to rest, he ran towards the NET and searched for the quickest route to Scilab’s NET. That was until he jumped away from a powerful strike that came from Killer Man’s scythe! 

“What are you doing?!” Search Man demanded as a few Navis were fleeing from them. 

“Finishing the mission!” Killer Man said before laughing and charging at the Navi soldier with his glowing, purple scythe. 

Search Man held his sniper before pulling himself away from swipe after swipe from Killer Man! The soldier Navi couldn’t make sense of this. He believed they had a common ally through Lan and Mega Man. Why was Killer Man attacking him? 

“Hold still!” Killer Man said annoyed as he continued to swing his scythe at the soldier, “It makes it harder to kill you!” 

Search Man sighed before summoning two search grenades. He took a few steps back before throwing one right at Killer Man. Killer Man wasn’t impressed as he effortlessly swings his scythe upward to cut the grenade in half. His eyes were soon wide when he failed to realize that Search Man had disappeared! 

“You were carelessly, assassin” Search Man taunted as he rushed behind to drop the grenade. 

Killer Man was surprised as Search Man pulled himself away before the grenade exploded! Search Man landed away as the Navis were fleeing. He glanced to them and made a note to make sure none of them get hurt. He focused on Killer Man and found him coughing to then laughing! 

“Oh wow!” Killer Man confessed with a delightful and manic laugh, “I loved that! You do not have many try tricks against someone like me! In fact, most of them run or accept their fate! You! You do not!” 

He pointed his scythe at Search Man who in turn drew his sniper at him. 

“You’re putting up a fight with me!” Killer Man let out another laugh before jumping, “This is going to be wonderful!” 

Search Man remained on guard as Killer Man laughed again to charge at him! Search Man kept his distance and avoided Killer Man’s strikes. It wasn’t easy, but the soldier Navi was able to block strikes using his sniper before delivering a powerful punch at Killer Man! 

“Yes! Yes!” the assassin Navi cried out in delight, “Give me more! More!” 

He swung his scythe against the sniper. Both held themselves against each other with their weapons locked tightly. Search Man held a determined expression while Killer Man had a manic one. Search Man swung his leg to swiftly kick the scythe and Killer Man away! 

“Guh!” Killer Man grunted as Search Man was able to create some distance between themselves. 

He aimed his sniper at Killer Man. He looked through the scope and pinpointed Killer Man’s points. Search Man then pulled the trigger and fired five shots at Killer Man. Killer Man swung his scythe between him and the incoming shots. He was able to block three but two struck him! 

“Argh!” Killer Man grunted in pain before swinging himself to land on his feet. 

He looked over his injuries and checked to see if he could recover quickly. Search Man wasn’t going to let up as he charged up his sniper again to aim at Killer Man again. 

“Do you surrender?” Search Man asked as he prepared to pull the trigger while towering over Killer Man. 

Of course, Killer Man only laughed wickedly before kicked his scythe to swing it upward! Search Man only had enough time to lean away from the assassin Navi to summon a search satellite above him. He fired a beam to strike Killer Man, but Killer Man swung his scythe to block the beam. 

“You’re gonna die!” Killer Man said in delight as he drew his scythe back and prepared to strike Search Man with one strike. 

The soldier Navi prepared to summon another pistol, but they heard something fire and coming towards them! Both pulled themselves away just in time to see Mega Man standing between them with his Mega Buster pointed at them! 

“Mega Man?!” Search Man and Killer Man exclaimed as he sighed and shook his head. 

“I have many questions as to why the both of you are fighting in the busy parts of Net City, but I also know that I will not get that answered so easily” Mega Man said as he charged up his buster, “But I do know that I can defeat you. So, tell me why you’re here. Or else I will not hesitate to fight and defeat you!” 

Search Man and Killer Man shared a glance before Search Man lowered his sniper. 

“It is a long story, Mega Man” Search Man said calmly, “I have a situation where Raika and Dingo are lost in the woods. They’re trying to make their way back here, but I do not know why Killer Man started to attack me”

“Do you have a hit on Search Man, Killer Man?” Mega Man asked in a knowing tone. 

Search Man was surprised that Mega Man was so calm about the situation while Killer Man groaned. 

“Yeah, yeah” Killer Man answered annoyed, “My operator and I were tasked to get that chip from your creator. We were gonna give it to the client, but then we were tasked with finding those two and making sure the chip wasn’t in their hands. My operator thought it would be fun if I went after the Navis!” 

Mega Man and Search Man sighed as they understood this situation too well. Though, both Navis realized something about this. 

“Who hired you?” Search Man asked seriously, “Someone wanted this chip, and who would that be” 

Killer Man glared at them before shaking his head at them. 

“I don’t know. My operator handles all that boring stuff. I do the killing! You know, the fun part!” Killer Man answered excitedly as Mega Man sighed at this. 

It was just like Killer Man to not know what is happening at the moment. Search Man glanced between Mega Man and Killer Man before realizing another issue. 

“What are you doing here, Mega Man?” Search Man asked surprised, “And do you think you and Lan can send help to my Operator and Tomahawk Man’s operator? They are lost in the jungle” 

A screen appeared beside Mega Man who held another worried expression. The screen revealed a nervous Lan who was laughing and rubbing his hand behind his head. 

“About that” Lan said as he increased the size of the screen to reveal Yahoot and Count Zap with Dusk and Dr. Hikari, “We actually know a lot more than you think” 

Search Man was surprised to see them again as Killer Man jumped at the sight of Dusk with them! Shadow Man appeared in the NET and faced the Navi with his stern expression. Killer Man took a few steps away from him. 

“So, how much trouble are they in?” Lan asked cheekily as his father sighed in the background. 

Dusk stepped in to stand behind the young teen to look through the screen to face Killer Man. Killer Man lowered his head and shook it before facing him. 

“In my opinion, they will be in trouble” Dusk confessed with a stern expression, “But I can think of a suitable punishment later. For now, I want to find Shuuichi. Where is he, Killer Man?” 

Killer Man was squirming underneath his mentors’ eyes. He groaned before yelling out in frustration! Search Man held his sniper as Mega Man covered his ears on his helmet. 

“Fine, fine!” Killer Man exclaimed in frustration, “My Operator was trying to lure out the other Operators by having me fight in the NET! So, he sent me into the NET to fight them. My Operator decided to head to the lab himself and deal with it in person” 

This made everyone worry as they stared at each other. Then, the lights shut down as Lan let out a scream. Count Zap held his PET and faced Elec Man. 

“Elec Man! Get the power back on!” Count Zap urged as Killer Man let out a laugh. 

Everyone had a funny feeling that Shuuichi was the one behind this. Elec Man disappeared into the NET of Scilab to search for the power center of it. As for the rest in the lab, they remained alert while searching for Shuuichi. 

“Does he have a hit on anyone?” Lan asked as his father was concerned for his son’s sanity after all the adventures he and his twin brother went on. 

Everyone was quiet and prepared as Shuuichi was climbing through the vents. He smirked when he saw Lan was right underneath him. He took a deep breath in and carefully pulled the opening off. He jumped through the vent’s opening and landed right behind Lan. Shuuichi prepared to grab him, but Dusk was quicker and grabbed Shuuichi by his collar! 

“Ah! Hey!” he shouted surprised and caught off guard, “Master?! Is that you?!” 

He looked over his shoulder to see Dusk who was holding a tired expression. Lan gasped as he turned around to see his friend and pointed at him. 

“Shuuichi! What were you going to do me?! I thought you weren’t going to take a hit on me!” Lan shouted as his father nearly fainted at that comment. 

“I wasn’t going to take a hit on you!” Shuuichi replied as he groaned at his situation, “I was only going to knock you out” 

“And why?” Dusk asked annoyed as the power was restored to the lab. 

Elec Man returned to his PET with Mega Man and Killer Man returning to theirs. Search Man arrived in the NET of the lab and appeared before everyone on the screen. Search Man was relieved to see his friends present while also gazing in an intimidated manner at Shuuichi. 

“So, you’re the reason my Operator and his friend are in the jungle” Search Man said as he looked down on him. 

“And I have a good reason for it, but I need that chip” Shuuichi answered simply as Dusk placed him on his feet. 

“What would that be? I know you’re not allowed to harm the Hikaris at all” Dusk added to it as he crossed his arms over his chest. 

Shuuichi could feel everyone’s eyes on him. He rolled his eyes before holding his PET out to them. Killer Man appeared along with the screen as they pointed at it a few documents. 

“I was only tasked with taking the chip. That was it. As for why I was going to knock Lan out, I was going to turn him over for the chip. If not, I would’ve let him go. Though, Lan can handle himself fine, so I wasn’t worried” Shuuichi explained before revealing one more screen, “As for my client, I believe you should know him very well” 

Everyone in the room jumped at the sight of the client while others were surprised to see him again. 

“Raika! Raika!” Tomahawk Man shouted to wake up the icy soldier from his slumber. 

He sat up and then took the PET out of his jacket’s pocket to see Tomhawk Man staring at him. 

“What is it?” Raika asked as he tried to shake the sleep off his eyes. 

“DINGO IS GONE!” Tomhawk Man shouted with worry as Raika woke up to that. 

He turned to look around and didn’t see Dingo anywhere! Raika groaned as he picked up his jacket to tie it around his waist before searching for his friend. 

“Where did that idiot go now?” Raika whispered underneath his breath as he ran through the forest. 

A few hours ago, Dingo woke up and shook himself to remove the water off him. He turned to see Raika was still asleep and Tomahawk Man was resting. Dingo glanced at their surroundings. He was still tired from their recent adventure. 

“Huh” Dingo wondered aloud as he looked at their surroundings, “I wonder how far we are from home” 

He looked over his shoulder and found Raika tossing and turning in his sleep. Dingo looked at his stomach and found himself hearing his stomach growing. He recalled Raika was the one who was going to get them food. Dingo wanted to make it up to Raika for saving his life and getting them out of that dangerous situation. So, what could Dingo do to make himself helpful? 

“I’ll get the food AND find a way home for us!” Dingo announced to himself with pride. 

He sniffled the area around himself before barking and running off in one direction. His barking woke up Tomahawk Man who then alerted Raika of Dingo missing. Dingo ran deeper and deeper into the forest and searched for anything familiar and food. 

“Maybe there is a stream nearby” Dingo thought allowed before running again. 

He sniffled for anything that could help Raika and was surprised to see a vast stream! His tail was wagging as he jumped into the stream. He dipped his head into the stream to search for fish. He wasn’t sure how he was going to hunt. He searched for fishes and was delighted to see a few coming his way. 

“Time for breakfast!” Dingo barked before jumping and trying to bite the fish. 

He tried to bite one fish, but the fish was much faster than he was. He growled before running after the fish! He was determined to catch it and bring it to Raika! 

“Come back here!” Dingo howled as he ran through the water and tried to bite the fish. 

He wasn’t paying attention and slipped into a deeper part of the stream! He kept himself afloat and tried to gather himself until he realized he was getting carried further and further into the stream. He barked and struggled as he tried to find a way out of this situation. 

“Dingo!” Raika shouted as he jumped into the stream, grabbed Dingo, and began to swim in the other direction, “What were you thinking?!” 

Dingo didn’t get a chance to answer as Raika was focusing on swimming to shore. Dingo began to swim and helped Raika and himself get to the shore. They fell against the stony shore, panting and exhausted from that. Dingo laid on his stomach as Raika was on his back. 

“Why do you keep doing this?” Raika asked in an exhausted tone, “You know we were already exhausted from everything. Why do you always do something stupid and not think of anything?!” 

Dingo whimpered at Raika’s scolding before growing at him. 

“I was trying to be helpful!” Dingo barked as his stomach growled loudly. 

Raika sat up and stared at his friend with a glare and tense expression. 

“Did you do this to get food?” Raika asked simply as he could feel his frustration with his friend. 

“No! Well, yes, but-” Dingo barked to explain as Raika shook his head. 

“I worked so hard to make sure you’re safe” he spoke in an increasingly frustrated tone, “I understand that you have your own way of doing things, but this is too far! We have to get back to Scilab and make sure the chip is safe! We cannot have anything happen to it! Why can’t you understand that?!” 

“I do understand that!” Dingo barked in a frustrated manner, “Why don’t you think of anyone else except the mission?! You can’t complete the mission without taking of yourself and others!” 

Tomahawk Man was very worried. He had never seen Dingo and Raika fight like this before. Yes, Dingo would get them into trouble, but Raika wouldn’t be this upset. Well, they nearly did drown and died before. Tomahawk Man knew they couldn’t keep fighting like this forever. 

“Hey! Stop fighting!” Tomahawk Man shouted as he gained their attention. 

“SHUT UP!” they shouted at him before glaring at each other. 

They were still yelling at each other until they snapped. 

“If you don’t want to complete the mission with me, then you can go home on your own!” Raika yelled. 

“Fine! And if you die out here without receiving proper care, then I get to say “I told you so!” at your funeral!” Dingo snapped. 

They took a deep breath in before they sharply turned around and ran away from each other! Tomahawk Man let out a surprised yell as he shouted for Raika to turn around and for Dingo to come back. They didn’t bother to turn around and only focused on their own ideas. Raika was heading towards Scilab while Dingo went home.

Chapter Text

“What a jerk!” Dingo howled in a frustrated manner as he continued to march forward with his head held high, “He’s going to collapse if he doesn’t take care of himself! Oh, but I am wrong for thinking about others!” 

Dingo growled as he continued to march forward without missing a step. He was determined to use his nose and find a way back home. He wasn’t going to let Raika tell him otherwise! Dingo was going to show him! 

“How can he not see the bigger picture?” Raika said in an annoyed tone, “We have to make sure this chip arrives to the lab! If not, then it will be in the hands of the enemy! Dingo should know better since we’ve had to fight enemies together!” 

Raika was trudging through the earthy, muddy ground of the forest and making sure his jacket is tied around his waist. He was not going to let Dingo prove him wrong. Especially when this chip could change the technology of their world. 

As for Tomahawk Man, he was worried. If they don’t get along now, then they may never make up again. Whether Dingo confessed this aloud or to him, he did like Raika as his friend. He was also aware that Raika did enjoy Dingo as his friend from Search Man. They were good friends! They shouldn’t have to fight like this! 

“What am I going to do about this?” Tomahawk Man wondered to himself as he noticed Raika wasn’t going to turn around and find Dingo. 

He checked the signal to see if he could enter the NET. He was surprised to find a stronger connection and decided to check in on this. He appeared in the NET and found very few Navis present! 

“Hey!” Tomahawk Man shouted as he rushed to one Navi, “How far am I from NET City?!” 

“Oh, uh, maybe an hour thirty give or take” the Navi answered nervously. 

Tomahawk Man let out a happily yell as he jumped. He couldn’t believe this! He was close to reaching home! He stopped celebrating when he realized that he still didn’t have Dingo with him. He would have to find him and have Raika and Dingo make up somehow. 

“How am I going to do that?” Tomahawk Man wondered aloud and failed to notice someone was approaching him. 

He felt someone approaching him and quickly swung his tomahawk to strike the foe who blocked it with his flamethrowers. They recognized each other and gasped in relief. 

“Tomahawk Man/Torch Man!” they shouted in relief as they pulled their weapons away before Tomahawk Man jumped to embrace Torch Man. 

“I am so happy to see you again!” Tomahawk Man said in relief and checked to see if Raika would react, but he failed to. 

Torch Man was also happy to see his friend and put him down when he noticed Tomahawk Man wasn’t being cheerful anymore. He also noticed Tomahawk Man was staring at the screen. 

“Is everything ok?” Torch Man asked, “How are the rests of your friends? I don’t see Search Man with you” 

Tomahawk Man explained the situation to him and what was happening. Torch Man was surprised to hear that Raika and Dingo were in a fight, but he knew Search Man would’ve been the best Navi to send back and find help. 

“So, what do you want to do?” Torch Man asked, “I know what it feels like to worry about your Operator and their friends. Do you have an idea of how to help them?” 

Tomahawk Man shrugged. He had never seen either of them that furious at each other before. He wasn’t even sure how to help them since neither wanted to speak with the other about this. He wanted to help them, but he didn’t have a plan. 

“Who else is with you, Torch Man?” Tomahawk Man asked curiously. 

“Wacko Man and his Operator are with me” Torch Man answered, “And the rest of my comrades of World 3 are also helping, but they are at SciLab” 

Tomahawk Man nodded his head as he continued to think and formed an idea. 

“Is there a way for me to speak with them? I believe I have an idea!” Tomahawk Man said as he slowly grinned. 

Both disappeared into the NET of the car and appeared before Wacko Man who jumped in a surprised manner. 

“Tomahawk Man! You are ok!” Wacko Man said in relie until he noticed the tense expression, “What is the matter? Is there anything I can do to make your frown go away?” 

“Yes! I’ll need to speak with your operators about a plan of mine. It should bring Dingo and Raika together as friends again!” Tomahawk Man explained determinedly. 

Wacko Man nodded as they appeared in a screen before Mr. Match and Maddy. Both let out a scream as they saw all three Navis appear before them as Maddy embraced Mr. Match who barely tried to keep the car from crashing. 

“What in the lot are you doing?!” Mr. Match shouted as he parked the car and glared at them. 

“I need to ask a favor!” Tomahawk Man shouted as he explained to them. 

Mr. Match and Maddy were surprised to hear this, but both shared a mischievous smirk. 

“So, you want us to cause some trouble for your Operators, right?” Maddy asked with interest. 

“Leave it to us!” Mr. Match shouted excitedly, “We will do everything we can to make sure they become friends again!” 

Tomahawk Man was relieved while Torch Man was a little bit concerned about their enthusiasms. He knew it was important for them to become friends again, but he also recalled their previous plans. He wasn’t sure if this was going to end well. He looked at Wacko Man who was bouncing up and down in delight. 

“Oh! Oh! What are we going to do?!” he asked excitedly as Torch Man sighed.

Well, all he can do is watch over them and make sure this plan doesn’t go too far nor hurt anyone. 

“So, what is the plan?” he asked as he looked at them. 

Tomahawk Man pondered on this and nodded his head. 

“Well, Wacko Man’s Operator should take the car and go after Dingo. I believe Torch Man’s Operator should be able to handle Raika” Tomahawk Man said with a nod of his head, “So, the plan is to get them to think of each other and cause some chaos. Do not cause enough to bring harm to everyone else” 

“Sure, sure” Mr. Match said as he stepped out of the car with his PET, “Don’t scratch it, Maddy. We need it again to make our orders” 

Maddy happily jumped into the driver’s seat with Wacko Man taking over the controls. 

“Yeah, yeah” she replied with a wave of her hand before powering up the car. 

“I’ll head back and stay with Raika” Tomahawk Man said with a grin before flashing a smile, ‘Thank you for helping us with this!” 

Both nodded their heads in reply before taking off to their respective destinations to help them. Tomahawk Man returned to his PET to find Raika still walking forward, but he was exhausted! Raika wouldn’t be able to keep this up for long. He hoped Mr. Match and Torch Man could find them. 

“Man, I didn’t realize this was so far from the city” Dingo said as he continued to walk underneath the shady trees, “But I should find a place to rest for the night. Then, I should pick myself back up and find some food” 

He looked around and sniffed to see if he could pick up a scent. He wanted to find somewhere safe to sleep for the night. He saw a few trees together and decided this was the best place to rest. He walked around and wagged his tail to move some of the leaves and prepared to sleep. Just as he was about to doze off, he heard an engine! He was awake and looked around to see the source of it. 

“What? Who is there?” Dingo barked as he stood on his paws and looked for the source of the engine. 

He could hear it growing louder and louder as he prepared himself for anything. Maddy was driving the cart and had Wacko Man search for any sign of life that wasn’t normal to the forest. She didn’t stop searching as she looked through the mirror. 

“Anything, Wacko Man?” she asked her Navi as she focused on the area before herself. 

“Yes! I am picking up something in the distance!” he shouted in delight as he gestured ahead. 

“Got it! We’re coming kid!” she shouted as Dingo’s ears were alert with his eyes wide. 

He knew this voice! 

“Maddy!” Dingo barked loudly, “I am here!” 

He looked around and ran a bit as his heard the engine getting louder and louder. He was close to finding someone to help him get back home! Maddy was surprised to hear a dog barking in the distance. 

“Hey, Wacko Man! Is that our Dingo?” she asked cautiously. 

“Yes! That’s his signature!” Wacko Man answered, “Full speed ahead!” 

Maddy drove as fast as she could with Dingo running. She stopped as Wacko Man sounded an alert to warn her that she was there! She stopped the car and gasped when she found a dingo standing before her! 

“Dingo?” she asked as she looked at the dog with wide eyes. 

He barked happily as he jumped and licked her face warmly! She laughed and hugged him warmly. She is very relieved to see him again after searching for him for so long. 

“Are you ok?” she asked as he barked happily, “Ah, how did this happen? You’re a dog! I cannot understand you” 

Dingo’s ears dropped as he realized only Raika could understand him. Maddy wasn’t sure how she could help him, so she rubbed his head in an affection manner and tried to hold a smile. 

“Hey, we’re going to figure this together” she promised, “In fact, your Navi sent me to find you! Though, he had this ridiculous plan which I believe Mr. Match is going to use. Wait, you can understand me, right?” 

Dingo nodded his head as he listened to her explanation about Tomahawk Man’s plan. Dingo actually liked it and wagged his tail while barking in agreement. Maddy wasn’t sure about this, but then again, like Navi like Operator. 

“So, do you want him to go along with this plan with Raika?” she asked curiously. 

Dingo barked in agreement as she nodded her head. 

“Ok, so I’ll have Wacko Man report to your Navi about this situation” she said with a grin and gestured to the car, “And we will go after them, so that you and Raika can make up and be friends again. How does that sound?” 

Dingo barked in agreement before running and jumping onto the car. Maddy grinned before joining him. She tapped the PET to turn it on and reveal Wacko Man to themselves. He happily greeted them. 

“Oh, it is so good to see you again, Dingo! Though, I didn’t expect for you to turn into an actual dingo!” he teased as Dingo barked in an annoyed manner before Wacko Man laughed again. 

“Enough of the jokes, Wacko Man. We’ve got work to do! Report to Tomahawk Man about Dingo’s findings and track them!” Maddy ordered as Wacko Man let out a laugh while he jumped to disappear into the NET. 

Dingo barked excitedly as Maddy stepped on the gas and drove after them. 

“I am almost there” Raika whispered to himself, “I am sure of it” 

Tomahawk Man was worried for Raika as he seemed to be getting tired from trying to reach Scilab by himself. He hoped Torch Man and his Operator, especially before Raika collapses from exhaustion. Tomahawk Man noticed a transmission and checked it to suppress his gasp. Wacko Man sent him a message and photo of Dingo with Maddy! His plan was coming together! Now, he just needs Torch Man and his Operator to show up! 

“Torch Man, do you have a lock on them?” Mr. Match asked as he continued to march through the muddy ground and passed the trees. 

“Yes. You should be approaching them soon enough. Press forward!” Torch Man urged as Mr. Match only laughed. 

He continued to run through the muddy floors and could see someone in the distance. He was sure of it, that was Raika! 

“Oi! Kid!” Mr. Match shouted as he broke into a sprint and charged towards him. 

Raika was surprised to hear his name and turned around to see someone there that wasn’t Dingo. He wondered who that was and took out Tomahawk Man’s PET. He realized he still had Tomahawk Man with him, but he shook his head. Right now, he needed to focus on the enemy before himself. After that, he can return Tomahawk Man to Dingo. 

“Tomahawk Man, are you operational?” Raika asked calmly as he continued to walk forward. 

“Y-yes!” he replied, caught off guard by Raika’s tired yet stern voice. 

“Please scan and identify the area. Someone is calling my name out, and I do not know them” Raika asked of him in a polite manner. 

Tomahawk Man was even more worried for Search Man’s Operator and knew he was right to ask for their help. Regardless, he had to help Raika. Tomahawk Man quickly scanned the area and knew it was Mr. Match and Torch Man. 

“It is Mr. Match and Torch Man from World 3! Oh, maybe there are here to help us!” Tomahawk Man said a little too loudly. 

Raika stopped in his tracks. On one hand, he understood why Tomahawk Man had a positive reaction to them. They do work together at the curry restaurant together. As for Raika, he was still worried. He knew both were still members of World 3 that still have hopes of reviving it. On top of that, they still did not know who the client was. 

“Let’s prepare ourselves for this” he said finally as he continued to march forward, “We still do not know who he is behind the attack nor wants this chip. We need to remain on guard” 

Tomahawk Man knew that Raika would jump to that conclusion. He agreed as he also sent a message to Torch Man about Raika’s response. 

“Ah, he was right. He does view us as enemies” Torch Man informed his Operator.

Mr. Match smirked as he held his PET and ordered, “Then, let us turn up the heat! Torch Man! Get Tomahawk Man!”

Torch Man appeared in the NET and before Tomahawk Man. However, Tomahawk Man received a text from Torch Man about their response to the situation. Tomahawk Man held his tomahawk and grinned. 

“Bring it on” Tomahawk Man whispered determinedly. 

Torch Man aimed his flamethrower at him. Torch Man opened fire as Tomahawk Man swung the tomahawk to cut the incoming fire attacks in half. One flamethrower struck his shoulder which made Tomahawk Man cry out in pain! 

“I thought the attack wasn’t supposed to hurt me!” Tomahawk Man harshly whispered to him. 

“We have to make it look convincing” Torch Man reminded him before loading more fire into his flamethrowers. 

Tomahawk Man let out a panicked yell and ran away from him! Raika looked at the PET and was caught off guard by this! 

“Tomahawk Man! Are you ok?!” Raika shouted with worry as he stopped running and looked at the PET. 

“I’ll be fine!” Tomahawk Man replied before glaring at Torch Man, “Because I am not going to lose to him!” 

Raika was surprised to hear how determined Tomahawk Man wasn’t going to give up so easily just like Dingo. Raika shook his head before focusing on trying to escape from Mr. Match. Raika looked over his shoulder and knew Mr. Match was going to catch up to him quickly. 

“I have to hide somewhere” Raika said seriously as he tried to find some place to hide. 

Mr. Match made sure to keep enough distance between himself and Raika as he held his PET to speak with the Navis. 

“The kid won’t be able to last long like this. Should I keep going, or stop?” Mr. Match asked as he kept his eyes on Raika. 

“I don’t see Dingo” Tomahawk Man said with concern as he ducked from another flamethrower. 

Before Torch Man could suggest something, Wacko Man sent a text to them. He pulled it out before himself, Tomahawk Man, and his Operator. Mr. Match was stunned to the point where he stopped running just as a car sped pass him! He let out a surprised yell before falling into the mud. Raika was surprised as well as he turned around to see the car approaching him. 

“Dingo?!” Raika shouted in relief as he saw the car stop with Dingo in the passenger seat. 

Dingo barked happily before jumping to tackle Raika. Maddy sighed in relief and only smiled when they were reunited. Wacko Man appeared before the Navis with Mr. Match sitting up and holding the PET to only smile. 

“What are you doing here?” Raika asked as he finally let go of his friend and held a smile of relief. 

“Maddy said Mr. Match was acting up again, so I came to help you!” Dingo said with pride, “Now, come on! We’re gonna make our escape!” 

Raika nodded before rushing to join them on the car. Dingo sat on the floor of it with Maddy taking the controls and driving forward. Mr. Match smiled as he watched them depart and then looked at his PET. 

“So, what’s the next part of the plan, you lot?” he asked with a grin before picking himself up and deciding to walk after them. 

“Right now, we are going to get to someplace for Raika to rest” Tomahawk Man informed them as he scanned Raika to display the results to the other Navis, “And eat and drink. It is a very good thing that we got him before he actually collapsed in the middle of the woods” 

The others couldn’t help but agree as Raika glanced between Maddy and Dingo before falling asleep in the seat. Dingo whimpered with worry as Maddy. 

“You kids are always pushing yourselves and doing the impossible” Maddy said with a shake of her head, “You have to learn to lean on others from time-to-time. That’s a lesson we learned from you, but then again, I am not better. I did try to ruin your lives too” 

Dingo shook his head to then grinning and wagging his tail with a happy expression to her. Maddy laughed before patting his head. 

“Thank you for that, little guy. But, let’s take care of your friend first” she said warmly. 

She drove for a little bit until she found a little rest stop. She checked and nodded when she found it empty. She then took Raika by his arm to lean against him. She walked towards the rest spot and placed Raika on a resting mat. 

“So, that should help him” she said with a grin, “I’ll drive back to pick up Mr. Match. You keep an eye out for him and make sure you two make up!” 

Dingo nodded his head as she grinned and went to the car. She started it up before driving away and going to save her friend. Dingo turned his attention to Dingo to then resting beside Raika and Tomahawk Man. 

“Oi!” Mr. Match said with a warm grin as he waved when he saw Maddy approaching him in the car, “So, how are they? Making up yet?” 

“Well, the kid is out, but Dingo is looking after him” she answered as Wacko Man appeared before them, “What up, Wacko Man?” 

“Something much” he answered with another screen, “I believe we have a message from our friends” 

“A message?” Mr. Match asked curiously with Maddy asking, “Go ahead and play it. We’ve got time until Raika recovers” 

Wacko Man only nodded his head before displaying the message to them. 

Raika woke up with a groan and looked around to find himself at a campsite with Dingo. Dingo barked happily before sitting and waiting. 

“Ah, thank you, Dingo” Raika said in relief before holding out his PET to his friend, “I need to apologize to you for everything I did” 

Dingo’s ears were perked up before calming down to dropping it to him replying, “You’re not the only one who needs to say sorry too. I didn’t mean to say those things either. I was upset and too stubborn” 

Raika sighed in relief before suggesting, “I believe we are too stubborn when we can be. Thank you for coming back for me, Dingo. I apologize. You’re a great friend” 

Dingo barked happily before saying, “You’re a great friend too. You took care of Tomahawk Man and even continued the mission. Thank you, Raika! I forgive you!” 

They shared a hug before relaxing. Though, Raika felt himself growing drowsing and yawned. Dingo shook his head to help lay down. 

“Come on, let’s rest before completing the mission, together” Dingo said as Raika hummed before falling asleep, next to his friend. 

They happily fell asleep together, finally reunited and forgiving each other as friends. Tomahawk Man sighed in relief before allowing himself to enter a rest mode to recover his HP and do more to help his Operator and his friend. As they slept, they were unaware that their enemy was closing in on them. 

“So, the chip should be here” the enemy said as he approached the two sleeping friends, “You caused a lot of trouble for me just to get this chip back” 

He removed his hat to reveal himself to be Dr. Wily! He kneeled at their sides and found the chip tucked in Raika’s coat. 

“I can’t believe his son was close to evolving our society. Though, he needs to wait on that for a bit” he commented, “He’s not the one who’s going to change everything” 

He went to pick up the coat, but Raika woke up and grabbed his wrist! Dingo bolted up and barked at Dr. Wily. 

“It was you! You were behind this, Dr. Wily!” Raika said with a glare. 

“I have a good reason for this” the doctor replied seriously, “This technology isn’t ready for us to have yet!” 

Raika didn’t believe him as he released his grip on Dr. Wily and then elbowed him. He motioned for Dingo to follow him. They ran in the other direction and away from him as fast as they could, leaving the doctor on the muddy path in utter confusion. 

“Give that chip back!” he shouted until he looked over his shoulder and saw Mr. Match and Maddy driving a car towards him, “You two! What are you doing here?!” 

“We were ordered to find those kids and bring them back to Scilab! What are you doing here, Great Dr. Wily?!” Mr. Match asked as he and Maddy bowed to him. 

“I am grateful you are both here! I need to find those kids and talk with the Hikaris! After them!” Dr. Wily ordered as he joined them in the car. 

“UNDERSTOOD, GREAT DR. WILY!” they replied as Mr. Match slammed his foot on the gas with Maddy ordering Wacko Man to create the perfect path to reach them. 

As for Dr. Wily, he was grabbing the handle of the car and holding on for dear life. He wanted to their help, but he also wants to live for a little longer! He hoped he would reach the before it was too late.

Chapter Text

“What do we do now, Raika?!” Dingo shouted as they were running through the forest. 

Raika was running a few scenarios through his mind before he realized something as he took out the PET. 

“Tomahawk Man! I need you to find the location of a hotel” he said seriously. 

“Sure thing, Raika!” Tomahawk Man said as he pulled up a few hotels near them. 

Dingo was curious about the hotel they would be looking for until he gasped at the sight before themselves. It was the city! They finally made it! 

“Raika! Who are we looking for?!” Dingo asked determinedly. 

“The princess” Raika answered with a determined nod. 

The princess in question was attending a few meetings in the city and had promised to meet with Raika for a small date before she would return to her country. She was currently in her room and having some tea while holding her PET to chat with Knight Man. 

“So, my schedule is a little open. Perhaps I could stop by Scilab and visit Lan!” Princess Pride said warmly. 

The princess has pale skin and bright, blue eyes. She has long, pale blonde hair and is wearing a brown hat. She has a white shirt and brown shirt with plaid, brown pants with long, brown boots. 

“I would advise against it, princess” Knight Man replied seriously, “There has been an attack” 

Knight Man is a giant, navy Navi knight with a matching helmet with a fluffy, red tip. He has his symbol on his chest. 

The princess wasn’t too pleased to hear this as she put her teacup on the table and then faced her Navi with a disapproving stare. 

“Knight Man, what do you mean? What has happened?” she demanded seriously. 

Her Navi sighed before pulling up a screen displaying the recent report about the attack on Scilab. She quickly read it and was worried. 

“Knight Man, I should’ve known about this! Raika is my partner!” she demanded seriously. 

Knight Man understood this, but he replied, “I am aware, my princess. However, Raika had made a request to me. He wanted me to not inform you if he was in danger. He would contact us to ensure he was safe” 

She was annoyed to hear this. She had constantly informed Raika that she and him were partners and should always be there for each other. She wanted him to trust her with this at least. She pouted until she sighed. She knew she would have to wait for him to tell her he was safe. 

“These are the last few hotels I found” Tomahawk Man said as he presented it to Raika, “But are you sure she’s here?” 

“Yes. We exchange our schedules to plan our respective rendezvous” Raika informed him as he looked at the last two hotels. 

Dingo was confused before asking, “Why not just say date? You’re clearly dating her! Does that make you a prince?” 

Raika held a flushed expression before answering, “She and I have decided to keep our relationship a secret from the public until we believe it is safe for the public to know. I trust you to keep it a secret, Dingo” 

Dingo only laughed before running at Raika’s side. They ran through the busy streets and through the crowds to find themselves standing before an expensive, stylish hotel! 

“Oh, yeah! She’s definitely there” Dingo answered as he wagged his tail. 

“Yes, come on!” Raika ordered as they entered the hotel. 

As they entered the hotel, Dr. Wily’s group arrived at the city and found themselves stuck in traffic. Mr. Match was slamming his fist on the horn as Maddy and Wacko Man were trying to find the kids. 

“Where could those kids be?” he wondered until he realized something wasn’t right with this traffic. 

Suddenly, a crossed fused Lan landed on their car! Maddy and Mr. Match held onto each other as they screamed while Dr. Wily sighed as he faced the grandson. 

“So, you found me out” he said in a knowing tone. 

“Shuuichi would never take a hit on me” Lan answered as Mr. Match was slighty concern as Maddy elbowed him to remind him that he also went after Lan, “But why are you doing this. Dr. Wily? I thought you weren’t going to harm anyone and Navii” 

The old doctor shook his head as he stepped out of the car. He rummaged through his coat to find a device and held it out to Lan. 

“There is a reason I am doing this. I was informed by someone that the chip your father is making isn’t ready yet” Dr. Wily informed him as a screen appeared, “I am sure you and your brother will recognize him, right?” 

Lan turned to him as he gasped with his brother shouting in their mind, “Isn’t that the Mega Man from Star Force?!” 

“That’s right! It took my ancestors a while to figure out!” a cocky voice exclaimed from the device as Lan and Hub were surprised by that voice. 

Mr. Match groaned as he pointed out, “That sounds like an annoying Hikari” 

“And I am proud of that! I am an annoying Hikari! In fact, I am the descendent of those Hikaris!” the voice said with pride as the screen changed to reveal his identity, “Sup everyone! I am Kazuma Hikari!” 

“WHAT?!” everyone shouted in utter disbelief. 

Meanwhile, the princess was reading another document that Knight Man delivered to her. Raika was able to track the princess’s room and were standing outside of it with Dingo there. Raika was a little nervous about approaching her room, but Dingo shook his head and knocked his head against it! 

“Dingo?!” Raika said in a harsh whisper. 

He took off with a grin as Raika growled at him. The door opened as the princess was surprised to see her partner standing there! She would’ve gladly expressed her delights in a loud yell, but he covered her mouth and pushed themselves into the room. He took off his hand and sighed in relief when no one heard them. 

Pride removed his hand and said in delight, “Raika! Thank goodness you’re ok! What happened?! What is going on?!” 

He sighed but smiled at her. It was a wonderful feeling to have her and Dingo care for him. He quickly informed her what was happening as she was surprised to hear this. 

She held a determined expression as she asked, “What would you like for me to do?” 

“We need help to get to Scilab and return the chip to Dr. Hikari and his son” Raika informed her as he held her hands, “And then find out how to turn Dingo back into a human” 

She was confused by that last part until the door burst open with Dingo standing there with his tail wagging. Pride let out a scream as she threw her hat at Dingo who howled in reply and jumped. Raika gently grabbed her shoulders. 

“That’s Dingo” Raika explained to her calmly as she was surprised. 

Dingo hid himself underneath the table as he waited for Raika to reassure him the coast was clear. Pride gasped before she rushed to the table and smiled at him. 

“Dingo, I am sorry for scarying you” she said gently, “I wasn’t aware that was you” 

He whimpered before seeing her and Raika standing there. Dingo sighed in relief and happily jumped to lick her face along with Raika’s! The princess happily embraced Dingo with Raika grinning at them. 

“I am grateful we are together, but we need to get out of here and get to Scilad. Pride, do you have an idea?” Raika asked gently. 

The princess pondered on this before snapping her fingers to hold a delighted expression. 

“I believe I do!” she said warmly before holding her PET, “Knight Man! I need your help to mess with the traffic and cross walks. We need to delay anyone trying to reach Scilab. From there, I need you to find the quickest route for me to reach Scilab!” 

Dingo barked at this plan in agreement while Raika was a little concerned. If it had be Lan or the Net Saviors, this would’ve been fine. However, she’s the princess and this could get her into serious trouble, but she is also a Net Savior as well. 

“Do not worry, Raika” she reassured him before holding his hand, “Knight Man and me will be safe. We will not let anyone get hurt, but we will cause some inconveniences. Now, please help Dingo and our friends” 

She gave his cheek a kiss before departing at a fast pace to be a part of this adventure. Raika’s face was flushed again, but he held a warm smile before picking himself up and determined to complete the mission. 

“Come on. Our next destination is Scilab. From there, we will bring this adventure to an end” Raika said to Dingo who barked in agreement before taking off. 

As for the princess, she exited the building as Knight Man was in the NET and looking at the data for the traffic lights. His hand changed into a wreaking ball as he examined it. 

“Princess, should I destroy this wall of data?” he asked curiously. 

“We are not going to completely destroy it, Knight Man” Princess Pride informed him, “We need to shut it down completely! Find the wall of data to forcefully shut down the traffic lights. We do not want to get anyone else hurt” 

“Of course, princess” he replied as he switched his wrecking ball for a blaster. 

He carefully took aim before firing at the wall of data. The wall changed from green to red as the traffic lights shut down and orange barriers appeared to prevent the cars and trucks from crashing into each other. The people were confused as the Navis were surprised to see this. 

“That should hold them off for a while” Pride said with pride and a little dance as Knight Man only sighed in relief. 

He was grateful his Operator made sure no one was harmed, but he was worried that her friends had tubbed off on her. She wondered what she could do to help them, but a Navi rushed to Knight Man from the NET. 

“Princess, Knight man, what are you doing?” Search Man asked as he approached them. 

“Helping Raika and Dingo!” Princess Pride answered warmly until she realized something, “What are you doing here, Search Man? I thought you went to get help” 

“I did get help princess. We were able to find out who was behind this. We are trying to apprehend them now, but why are you causing a public disturbance?” Search Man asked concerned. 

“I was helping Raika and Dingo head to Scilab” the princess replied, “They should be making their way. I’ll head over as well” 

“That might be helpful princess” he said with a nod of his head, “I shall meet you there as well. I cannot imagine this ending well” 

He disappeared as the princess put her PET away and rushed to the lab. However, her traffic control distraction wasn’t enough as Dr. Wily was also making his way to the lab, because Lan was able to give him a piggyback ride on his back. They were running to the lab as fast as they could. 

“You’re surprising light, Dr. Wily!” Lan commented as he was running from car roof to car roof. 

“I will take that as a compliment for now, but hurry! We must reach Scilab and stop your father!” Dr. Wily shouted urgently as Lan picked up the pace to Scilab.

Chapter Text

“Are we there?!” Dingo barked as Raika nodded his head. 

They were running to Scilab and were closing in on it. They didn’t stop and ran to find it open. Raika pushed the doors open to allow himself and Dingo to enter. The people were surprised to see them here, but they ran pass them to reach Dr. Hikari’s main lab. 

“DR. HIKARI!” they shouted as they found him tinkering on a new device. 

He was surprised as he jumped and adjusted his jumbled glasses. He composed himself before approaching them. 

“Raika! You’re ok! Oh, did you bring Moscow with you?” Dr. Hikari asked in relief until he realized Dingo wasn’t present, “But where is Dingo?” 

“It is a long story, Dr. Hikari. But Dingo is the dog. He’s not Moscow” Raika explained as he dug through his jacket’s pocket and pulled out the chip, “But we finally managed to deliver this to you” 

Dr. Hikari was very surprised, concerned, and impressed with them. Oh, he was also worried. He was worried for Dingo, because somehow, he had transformed into a dog. However, he was impressed and concerned that they worked so hard to deliver the chip to him. Just as the doctor was about to take it, the doors to the lab burst open again! They turned to see Lan looking exhausted with Dr. Wily on his back! 

“STOP!” Dr. Wily shouted as he pointed at them, “You must’ve give that chip to Dr. Hikari!” 

Lan finally gave in as he collapsed with Dr. Wily on his back and still pointing at them. Lan transformed back to himself with his PET on the floor. 

“What happened to you?” Raika asked bewildered. 

“I… carried… him… all… the… way.. to …the… lab….” Lan answered in an exhausted tone. 

“And he’s completely spent” Mega Man reported with a sigh, “Yeah, Lan’s out. You’ll have to solve this without him” 

Dr. Wily walked over Lan and made sure the PET was near him. Mega Man thanked him before he turned his attention to the group before him. 

“Now, if you would let me explain, that chip cannot be in his hands” Dr. Wily said slowly, “He is not the one who needs to create this technology” 

Raika and Dingo stepped in front of Dr. Hikari as they planned to protect him. 

“Then who is supposed to create it?” Raika demanded as he prepared to protect the professor with everything he had. 

Dr. Wily coughed in his hand before pointing to the exhausted Lan on the floor. Everyone blinked and starred at the doctor and the tired Lan in silence and disbelief until Dingo let out a howl of laughter! Raika even snickered at the idea while Dr. Hikari’s jaw dropped in shock. 

“Are you sure Dr. Wily is a threatening person?! He just said the most hilarious sentence ever!” Dingo howled as he rolled on the floor of the lab. 

“Are you correct, Dr. Wily?” Raika asked as he tries to compose himself, “Lan isn’t a genius at all” 

Lan growled weakly at the comment, but he wasn’t going to do anything to retaliate since he was just too tired to do anything. 

“Oh, yeah he is!” an annoying voice spoke from Dr. Wily’s PET, “My ancestor is going to be the one who paves the way for my world! I am here to make sure of it!” 

A screen appeared before them to reveal a teenager with spiky hair and a cocky smile. His eyes were a mixed between Lan and Maylu’s. He had a black jacket and red shirt on with black pants. 

“Did you have another child, Dr. Hikari?” Raika asked in a bewildered tone. 

“No, no I did not” Dr. Hikari answered as he blinked at the sight of the child, “But he bears some resemblance to my sons” 

“Yeah, I am basically your many great grandson, many great grandpa! My name is Kazuma Hikari!” he greeted, “And I am here to make sure my family line doesn’t get too messed up with the technology driving lunatics we are!” 

Everyone was surprised to hear this, but Kazuma seemed pleased with himself. 

“It is a long story, but basically, I am here to make sure the future is on the same course as it should be” Kazuma explained with a grin, “So, great grandpa can’t do the other great grandpa’s work” 

No one was entirely sure how to comprehend this, but Dr. Wily took this chance to speak. 

“This is a strange time, because I also didn’t believe Lan Hikari would be the one to change everything we know about the NET” Dr. Wily spoke as Lan just groaned in reply, “But if the future is going to be what it is then we mustn’t let it be changed!” 

Dr. Hikari understood this, because of their mission with Barly and Colonel. However, he didn’t want to pass up this opportunity! He struggled to think of a solution as Dr. Wily approached him to take the chip. 

Raika knew a fight was coming, so he snatched the chip and ran with Dingo following him! 

“WHAT?!” everyone shouted in disbelief as they watched the duo running away! 

“Stop them!” Kazuma shouted urgently as he slammed his hands on the desk and computer he was using to reach out them. 

Dr. Wily and Dr. Hikari ran after them as Dingo was surprised by Raika’s decision as well. 

“What are we going to do?!” Dingo barked at Raika. 

“I must be honest, I do not have an idea” Raika confessed, “But I knew a fight was going to break out if I didn’t do something!” 

“Got it!” Dingo barked, “So, what do you want to do?!” 

Before Raika could answer, he felt his PET buzz. He took it and smiled when he saw Search Man. 

“Search Man! You’re back! Are you ok?” he asked in relief. 

“I am, but what is happening? Why are the doctors after you and Dingo?” he asked surprised. 

“We are going to protect the chip until they sort this out” Raika informed his Navi, “But where were you?” 

Search Man made a screen appear to display the news of the traffic jam. He explained how he was trying to keep the princess from causing too much trouble. Raika explained how he asked for the princess’s help to cause some chaos. Search Man was even more surprised by this. 

“Well, you’ve surprised me, Raika” Search Man confessed, “So, what is our next course of action?” 

“We need to create as much distance between us and the doctors until they can settle this” Raika informed him. 

“And if they can’t?” Search Man asked seriously. 

“Then, we should break it!” Dingo suggested with a bark as Raika’s eyes were wide. 

Dingo was expecting a scolding, but he was met with a loud yell of realization. 

“Dingo, you’re a genius!” Raika said with Tomahawk Man laughing in agreement. 

This comment nearly made him trip as Raika rushed to another section of the lab with Dingo close to him. Raika held the PETs to speak with the Navis. 

“Keep the doctors from reaching us” Raika informed them, “Just long enough for us to destroy this chip” 

The two Navis agreed before disappearing into the NET and attacked the security system! The doors were locked and closing off certain areas of the lab! 

“How are they doing this?” Dr. Wily asked surprised as Dr. Hikari was holding his own PET. 

“Their Navis are shutting down the NET in the lab!” Dr. Hikari exclaimed in utter disbelief. 

He tried to reboot the system and stop the Navis, but Dr. Wily sighed and held his own PET to access the NET. He effortlessly hacked into the system and interjected his own Navis to surround Search Man and Tomahawk Man! 

“Looks like we’ve got company!” Search Man commented with Tomahawk Man brandished his tomahawk. 

“Wonderful! Let’s get them!” he shouted before lunging at the Navis to defeat them! 

Dr. Wily knew that wouldn’t keep them busy for long so he made sure to hack into the system itself and unlocked a few doors. They searched for the duo as Dingo remained on guard. 

“I can smell them coming closer!” Dingo whispered to Raika. 

Raika nodded his head as he was searching through the cabinets and shelves for anything he could use to bring harm to the chip. He needed to find something soon too. 

“Remember, these are simple guard Navis” Search Man informed Tomahawk Man, “They’re simply doing their job. We shouldn’t bring them harm. Or too much harm” 

Tomahawk Man took another swing to strike one Navi before turning to Search Man who aimed his sniper to take out one. 

“Aw, but it is going to be annoying to hold back on them!” Tomahawk Man complained before using the blunt end of the tomahawk to knock out another guard Navi. 

“I agree, but they are simple guard Navis. They’re nothing like us. I am sure after this fight that Raika and I can give you a fun battle” Search Man offered before shooting another Navi in the knee to knock him out. 

Tomahawk Man let out a happy yell before charging forward to swing his tomahawk to knock the Navis unconscious! Search Man was relieved that his friend was enjoying his motivation, but he hoped he will not tire himself out from it. 

“Found it!” Raika said in relief as he took out a device and examined it. 

“What is that?” Dingo asked curiously. 

“A chip destroyer” Raika answered as he held the black and red device to him, “It should be able to destroy any Navi chip that is inserted into it. If they cannot make up their minds, then we will simply destroy the chip” 

Dingo was surprised that such a device existed and sniffed it. He wondered how it would destroy a Navi chip until his ears perked up when he turned around to the door. 

“They’re coming!” Dingo whispered as Raika looked around. 

Dingo searched for anything and barked when he saw a vent. Raika turned his attention to his friend and smiled at the vent. Raika approached and pulled the cover off it before allowing Dingo to climb through it. Raika followed him before picking up the cover and pull it over. Once it was locked, he crawled after Dingo as quickly and quietly as he could. 

“Raika! Dingo! Where are you?!” Dr. Hikari shouted as he opened the doors and groaned when he didn’t see them. 

Dr. Wily stood there with his PET in hand as Dr. Hikari searched the room for anything out of the ordinary or missing. Dr. Wily held his PET in the air and scanned the area until Dr. Hikari let out a panicked yell. 

“What is it?” Dr. Wily asked as he continued to search for the duo. 

“Raika must’ve found the Chip Destroyer!” Dr. Hikari expressed in a panic, “That is a device I created to destroy some of the Dark Chips as well as any other chip deemed too dangerous to be in the hands of others, including my sons!” 

“You had good intentions, but we must find them!” Dr. Wily urged as he held the PET to the vents to see heat signatures, “They climb through the vents! Where does it lead to?!” 

Dr. Hikari pulled out his own PET and summoned a map of the area. He found the vent and discovered that it led to the roof of the building! Both doctors rushed to the elevator to catch up to them before Raika destroys the chip. 

“Wow! Who knew the vent led to the roof of this building?” Dingo said as he moved out of Raika’s way to kick the vent’s door down and land on his feet. 

Dingo followed him before running to the edge of the roof to gaze down at the busy city. Raika checked the PETs and found both Navis were still fighting the guard Navis. He wasn’t sure how long they were going to hold out for. Raika then looked at the empty roof. Luckily, only they were present. 

“So, are you ready to destroy it?” Dingo asked excitedly. 

Raika had to admit it, it was going to be fun to destroy this. He looked at the device and found the slot where the chip would enter in. Raika examined the chip and sighed. He hoped this would be the end of this. 

The doors to the elevator opened as both doctors appeared exhausted and frustrated. Dingo stood at Raika’s side and growled at them. 

“Please give me that chip” Dr. Hikari said, “I can help change the world for the better. You know this” 

“No, do not give it to him” Dr. Wily ordered, “Give that chip to me. It must not be used by him! It must be used by his idiotic soon to be genius son!” 

Raika rolled his eyes at them before holding the device where he could put the chip in. Both doctors froze at the sight of the chip almost being inserted into the device. 

“No one move. We are going to work this out, or I will destroy the chip” Raika said seriously, “This is getting out of hand and needs to stop” 

The doctors only stared at him as Dingo held himself high at their shaken state. The doctors glanced to each other as they silently faced the duo. 

“Sure thing, Raika” Dr. Hikari said calmly, “We can work on a solution together and figure out the future” 

As Raika was prepared to slowly hand the chip over, Dr. Wily tried to grab it, but he caused Raika to toss the chip in the air! Dingo rushed to grab and bite the chip and run in another direction! Raika rushed to push Dr. Hikari off his feet before running to Dingo. 

“Give me the chip! I’ll destroy it!” Raika shouted urgently as he held his hand out. 

Dingo nodded as he rushed to Raika’s side. However, Dr. Wily tackled the dog who threw his head upward to toss the chip away from him! Raika rushed to grab it, but Dr. Hikari jumped to snatch it! 

“I have it!” he shouted in relief as he held it in the air. 

Raika apologized before snatching it out of the doctor’s hands and prepared to insert it into the device. 

“No!” Dr. Hikari shouted as Dr. Wily tackled the teen who threw the chip into the air, but over the edge of the building! 

Everyone gasped in horror as they saw the chip flying over the edge, but someone grabbed it! There was a yell as someone was pulled up to the roof and landed on it. Lan stumbled a bit as he held the chip and his PET. Behind him was Princess Pride who had cross fused with Knight Man and Shuuichi and Killer Man,

“What are all of you doing here?!” Raika asked bewildered and relieved to see them. 

“We came to put an end to this” Lan answered as Shuuichi was helping him stand up and looked at the chip, “I am the one who is going to create this kind of technology, so it should be up to me to decide whether or not this chip should exist” 

Everyone agreed with that statement to a degree. Lan examined the chip and then sighed at it. He turned the chip over and dropped it on the floor of the roof to slam his foot on it! His father nearly fainted as Dr. Wily was surprised by Lan’s decision. 

“There, that’s that” Lan said with a nod of his head before picking it up and handing it to Raika, “Destroy it” 

Raika was impressed with Lan’s decision as well before inserting the chip into the Chip Destroyer and finished it. Everyone cheered in relief as Lan finally sat down with Raika and Dingo sitting next to him. 

“But why?” Dr. Hikari asked his son. 

“Well, if I am going to do this, I should learn how to, papa” Lan explained, “It would be easier if you helped me, but I should be the one to do this. That and Kazuma said that people learn about me and what I do! I can’t pass that up!” 

Dr. Hikari only smiled at him with Raika and Shuuichi rolling their eyes. Mega Man appeared in the NET to stop Search Man, Tomahawk Man, and the guard Navis from fighting anymore. 

“But you want to start from the beginning?” Dr. Wily asked curiously. 

“It wouldn’t be fun if my papa did all the work, and I didn’t” Lan explained sadly with his brother laughing. 

“He is a little sad that he will not be able to depend on our father, but he is willing to try at the very least” Mega Man answered with a knowing smile.

Princess Pride powered down and held her PET before holding Raika’s right arm and smiling in relief. He grinned at her before focusing on Dingo who was barking in delight. 

“Ah! Dingo! What about you? You’re still a dog!” Raika exclaimed as he faced Dingo. 

Dingo wasn’t sure either as he barked in a panicked manner. No one knew what to do to help him! 

“If I may, I would be of some help” Miyu greeted as she approached them. 

“Miyu! What are you doing here?!” Lan greeted warmly with a wave. 

She approached Raika and Dingo who were staring at her in awe. She held her PET before them with Skull Man laughing in delight. In a flash of purple light, Dingo transformed back into his human self! Dingo let out a cheer before jumping to embrace Raika and Pride who laughed in agreement. 

“How did you know this was finished?” Dr. Wily asked her curiously. 

She simply smiled before turning to him with her Navi in hand, “I wanted to help Lan. He’s been a loyal customer with a bright future. How could I not want to help a friend? If he ever needs me, I will be there to always help” 

She turned to leave before grinning at Lan with his friends. She departed with them with high hopes for the future. 

“And that’s what happened” Hub explained to the Mega Mans. 

They were surprised and silent while Geo let an understand “huh”. 

“That’s why Kazuma was in a panic and madly insane for the day” Geo commented as Hub nodded his head. 

“MEGA MAN VS SAMUS IS NEXT! WILL THE FIGHTERS PLEASE MAKE THEIR WAY TO THE STAGE FOR THE FIGHT” an announcer announced with the Mega Mans staring at each other in excitement. 

They were ready to for their next fight after hearing an interesting tale involving their friends. Hopefully, one day, they would go on another adventure their friends that would involve them saving their worlds. For now, they would be content with fighting in the greatest tournament in the worlds.

Chapter Text

This was a fun, nonsense story. For those wondering what this was inspired by, it was the 

Emperor’s New Groove. I love this movie and cannot wait for the lady to make a Twisted version 

of Yzma, Kronk, and Kuzco. That being said, I had this story in mind well before I went to the 

Disney parks in Florida too. I had this mind when I heard rumors of a Mega Man Battle Network 

Collection was being made. Worst case scenario, I would save this story for when it was dry season. 

Best case scenario, it would be used for the release date of the game! True, I was a week off, but I 

had college stuff I had to take care of! I was finishing up! Now, as for the reason I picked Raika, 

Search Man, Dingo, and Tomahawk Man for this, they stuck out to me besides Lan, Hub/ Mega 

Man, Chaud, Proto Man, Maylu, and Roll. To be honest, it is kind of criminal that the anime isn’t 

canon, because they really shine in it. I am not kidding. They were stuck together in another 

dimension and had this whole fun, bonding experience. It was hilarious from beginning to end. 

Despite that, these two are very good characters in the anime and game. They put up a good 

fight and helped us throughout the game. Honestly, I enjoyed them so much. I hope we can see 

more of them again someday! So, this is for them too. I laughed so hard when I met Dingo and 

enjoyed Raika’s character development throughout the series. I have to be honest, I still cannot 

believe Raika and Pride are a possible couple. That was the best moment for me. That and Dingo 

just breaking into a museum and trying to trick Neo World 3 and failing. I know these characters 

are not accurate representations of the cultures, and to be honest, a game like this would not have 

been made otherwise. However, they are fun to watch and see what they will do. Yes, this story 

was one where I created for fun and enjoyment, but I love this series. I am so happy so many of us 

actually remember it and enjoyed buying the collection to replay these amazing moments. I really 

didn’t think a lot of people remembered this series since the original came back and then a few 

others shined as well. That being said, thanks for reading and enjoying this fun adventure! I know it 

is not entirely similar to the movie, but I had so much fun writing this and celebrating this series. I 

cannot wait to write more for it one day. For now, thank you for reading. Oh! Right! My lesson! 

For this one, treasure what you love and share it with others. There are more people out there 

who do enjoy the same interests as you. If not, then always share it with others who are close to 

you! It is a lot of fun to just talk about it with others!