When Matt began speaking in gibberish, Masato was suddenly less convinced that the smaller boy been the best choice of partner after all.  When reality began to ripple before him, however, his eyes widened and Masato instead began to wonder if<em>he</em>would be good enough to back<em>Matt</em>up.  Masato knew nothing of magic and otherworldly dimensions and other such arcane lore, so he knew little of what to expect on the other side.  Still, he watched enough movies and read enough comics to know one thing, at least:<br/><br/>Don't fuck with the wizard.<br/><br/>Taking a deep breath, Masato steeled himself to venture into the unknown.  Cracking his knuckles once again, he nodded.  "Lead the way, Tatami -- I've got your back a hundred percent."  With a hint of concern, he looked toward Hikari, hoping she would reconsider and stay behind.  Her admirably determined expression, however, suggested that it was likely not to be.  "You ready for this?"