I don't own Digimon.
A/N: This chapter was originally going to have more, but I realised if I tried to add everything I wanted it would get too long with too many POVs. Thus, I split the second in two and we'll see the rest of Thursday in the next chapter!
Following the Footsteps of Destiny
Chapter 319: Into the Storm
DarkAngelicmon
Cyber, Western Hemisphere, Digital World
Gazing out at the ocean, DarkAngelicmon could feel the early morning breeze ruffling his feathers, and sensing a warm presence approaching, his handsome features twisted into a deep frown. As much as he welcomed the closeness of his dear friend, now was not the time to test his patience.
Especially after yesterday evening. The Ruler of Darkness intends to use me in that terrible place. How can I let this happen when ultimately I know what he is planning...
"You seem conflicted," a soft voice murmured from just behind his left shoulder. "That is not like you at all."
DarkAngelicmon let out a deep sigh, and without turning around, he said quietly, "Times change, my old friend. You should know that as well as I do."
"Indeed I do, though I wish it were otherwise."
As do I.
It was a sober thought, and watching the waves rolling gently against the shore, DarkAngelicmon said bluntly, "What are you doing here? Have you forgotten my words of caution already?"
"I haven't forgotten," the gentle voice replied, the words floating leisurely out to sea. "I could sense your uneasiness, and I was concerned."
DarkAngelicmon finally turned to look at the rookie angel, and crossing his arms over his chest, he said, "There's no need for that. I'm perfectly fine."
"Are you really?" Lucemon whispered, his pale blue eyes sparkling in the sunshine.
No, I'm not. I am far from fine, my old friend, but be that as it may, I must continue moving forward. Worrying about me will not do you any good. You must stay safe and focus on yourself...
The two of them hadn't seen each other since before he journeyed to the Wall of Fire with the Ruler of Darkness, and knowing the rookie angel would have felt their loss of connection just as much as he had, he felt a sudden jolt of pain in his heart. What he had said to the Digidestined earlier was true. Venturing into the very centre of darkness itself was not an experience he ever wanted to repeat again, but whether or not he could avoid it would depend entirely on his enigmatic master.
The fire burns, but it does not create any light...
"You don't seem fine to me," a higher voice interrupted, startling him out of his thoughts.
Spotting the little mega hovering over Lucemon's shoulder, DarkAngelicmon raised his eyebrows and said dryly, "How nice of you to care so deeply about my well-being."
"Of course I care!" MarineAngemon blurted out, flushing at his words. "I know how much you mean to Lucemon, and I...well, I think you and I could be good friends. I would like that, actually."
Even though my heart is tainted?
DarkAngelicmon almost smiled, and ignoring the sudden warmth filling his soul, he said shortly, "I do not like to repeat myself. Now that the Ruler of Darkness has LadyDevimon amongst his ranks, you must be extra careful. If you get too close, she will be able to sense your presence, and she is not the only one."
"What do you mean?" Lucemon asked, looking alarmed.
"I trust you're aware of the fact that Spritemon met her demise in the waterway, and if you know that much then you are also aware that Vampiramon has not only returned, but she has also taken on a new form. With the loss of Spritemon, Jestermon, and BlackWidowmon, the Ruler of Darkness needed to fill their positions. Phelesmon has taken one of those empty spots, which means he is also a threat to you."
"I see," Lucemon replied, averting his eyes. "The Ruler of Darkness has always been quite fond of celestial digimon."
No, he wants you, and no matter how many celestial digimon join his ranks, none of them will ever fill the void you left...
"Great, so now we need to be extra careful of our movements," MarineAngemon lamented, his wings drooping slightly. "Dare I even ask who else has joined your team?"
Sensing it would not be wise to reveal the entirety of his master's plan just yet, he said slowly, "Persiamon has also taken one of the spots. Tomorrow, LadyDevimon, YukiOnnamon, Phelesmon, Persiamon, and myself will be journeying north to steal the next Spirit Chip. You have been following Gennai, I presume, and are up to date with current events?"
"I am," Lucemon confirmed, looking troubled by the news. "There's something else you're not telling me, isn't there."
Perceptive as always, my dear friend...
DarkAngelicmon wasn't quite sure how to answer, and attempting to avoid the question, he said simply, "If you have any notion of travelling north yourself, do not forget my words of caution. Keep your distance. I cannot stress that enough."
"Don't worry, I'll make absolutely sure he doesn't do anything reckless," MarineAngemon insisted, puffing up his small frame with unwavering determination. "He's my friend as much as he is yours, and there's no way I'm going to let anything bad happen to him."
I believe you, little one. Your bold words and immense strength remind me so much of Matty...
Though it seemed silly to do so, he had every intention of voicing his thoughts out loud, but before he could open his mouth, Lucemon suddenly gripped him by the shoulders and said in a pleading voice, "Please, tell me where you were when I could no longer feel your presence. I must know. Please..."
The pain in Lucemon's icy blue gaze nearly swallowed him whole, and closing his eyes, he whispered, "The only place I could ever be separated from you."
Even when my heart is lost, I must not forget myself. If I do, your light will no longer be able to reach me...
There was a sharp intake of breath, and pulling him into a hug, the rookie angel said sharply, "You must not go back there again. Do you understand me? We have already lost Luciamon. I cannot bear to lose you, as well. I need you, and I am not the only one. The Digidestined need you, as well. Now more than ever."
"If you step through those flames again, next time you might not come back," MarineAngemon warned.
Clearly, the little mega was well aware of his past, and resting his chin on Lucemon's pale tresses, he said seriously, "You know I cannot promise you that, not as long as I am bound to the Ruler of Darkness."
Strange, his light no longer burns me. Perhaps not all hope is lost...
"Then we know what needs to be done," Lucemon murmured into his chest. "I cannot act on my own, but I know Mickey and Matty will do so in my stead. If you cannot promise to stay away from that terrible place, then promise me this. When the time comes, do not forget the truth of what lies deep within your heart. They will call for you, and when they do, you must follow their voices towards the light. Can you do that for me?"
As the faces of the Takaishi twins flashed across his mind, he returned the rookie angel's fierce embrace and said gently, "That I can do."
"Angelicmon..."
Even now, they're pulling on the chains that bind me. How could I ever ignore them when their light is the key to my salvation...
"Not being able to sense your closeness felt far more painful to me than the very darkness itself," Lucemon mumbled, refusing to loosen his grip. "It is not something I ever want to experience again."
DarkAngelicmon could not ignore his own reluctance to part ways, and gently stroking the rookie angel's wings, he said quietly, "You are not the only one who feels that way. Nothing hurts me more than the mere thought of having to stray from your side, let alone the act of doing so."
"You are starting to act like the Angelicmon I remember," Lucemon whispered, his lips turning up in a small smile. "That's good. That's...reassuring."
"Aw, you guys," MarineAngemon sniffled, looking suspiciously close to tears.
DarkAngelicmon slowly let go of his old friend, and turning to the little mega, he said seriously, "If you truly intend for us to be friends, you must protect Lucemon at all costs. Only then will you have earned my respect and the right to call yourself my trusted companion."
"Don't worry, I will," MarineAngemon replied, his head tilting to the side. "You'll see. I always keep my promises."
DarkAngelicmon didn't object as the little mega zoomed over to nuzzle his cheek before backing away to gaze shyly at him from behind Lucemon's shoulder, and taking the celestial rookie's hand, he said pleasantly, "You didn't ask me why."
"Why you travelled to the Wall of Fire?" Lucemon asked, averting his eyes. "The thought crossed my mind, but I knew even if I did ask, you would not give me an answer."
That was true, and placing a hand under the celestial rookie's chin, he said, "Though it terrifies me more than I am willing to admit, I suspect you'll find out soon enough."
"Are you trying to make us worry even more?" MarineAngemon asked, his mouth drooping into an obvious pout.
"Please, just be careful," Lucemon said softly, squeezing his hand in return. "That's all I ask."
"That goes for you, as well. Once again, I repeat. Do not forget my words. If you intend on following the Digidestined, keep your distance. I know I cannot stop you once your mind is made up, but it will certainly make my life easier if I know you're safe."
"Of course, my friend. I will remain vigilant. MarineAngemon will see to that."
"You bet I will!" the little mega agreed.
DarkAngelicmon nodded, and slipping his hand free, he said mildly, "I must return to the castle. Do not worry, I'm quite certain Mickey and Matty will keep me in line. They have this rather annoying habit of twisting my heartstrings."
It was only then that Lucemon finally let the smile on his pale face reach his eyes, and leaping into the air, the celestial rookie said fondly, "Indeed, you are not their only victim. Stay sharp, my dear friend, and come back to me. I will be waiting."
Having expressed his opinions on what he felt needed to be said, Lucemon fluttered off with MarineAngemon in tow, and as they disappeared from view, DarkAngelicmon gently placed a hand against his heart. Though the path ahead was dangerous, somehow he would have to navigate his way through the darkness, but before that he needed to make sure the Takaishi twins stayed true to themselves and each other.
If they don't, we all lose far more than the Spirit Chips...
Masato 'Matty' Takaishi
Odaiba, Japan, Earth
Masato Takaishi wasn't usually in the habit of cutting it close when he had somewhere he needed to be, but over the last couple of weeks his timing had been erratic at best. While he could argue there were other factors involved, a lot of his flighty behaviour and inability to maintain a proper schedule were a direct result of the stress and anxiety plaguing his mind.
And of course Sam and his brother were at the forefront of all the problems he was currently dealing with, even if they weren't aware of just how much their behaviour had affected his confidence.
Does it even matter? Whether they can sense my feelings or not, nothing changes the fact that I promised Kara I would talk to Mickey. If I don't confront him tonight, I'll end up losing my only chance to gain his trust before we go to the Digital World...
"Matty, we're going to be late if you don't hurry up," a sweet voice urged, nudging him gently in the ribs.
The warm touch startled him so much he almost fell into his open locker, and attempting to shove a few things into his backpack without hurting Goldmon, he said hastily, "I know that! I'm trying to hurry as fast as I can."
"Oh, I don't mind. There's really no rush. I just figured you didn't want a repeat of what happened when Dai arrived at Izzy's house before you did."
Matty paused to glance suspiciously at his twin, who was watching him with obvious amusement, and quickly zipping up his backpack, he grumbled, "That was totally Sam's fault."
"So he says."
It was a sunny Thursday afternoon, and though classes had officially finished for the day, there were still quite a few students milling around in the hallways. Having just come from the computer room, where they discovered the rest of the Digidestined had already picked up their partners, they were now in a bit of a rush to leave the building and make their way to the Motomiya residence. On the surface, doing so seemed like a relatively simple task, but the presence of other bodies pushing past and the task of rummaging through his locker were quickly putting his patience to the test.
Focus, Matty. You need to get through this whole talk with Gennai thing first. Then you can talk to Mickey.
Easier said than done, since he could still hear Takara's lecture from the night before echoing in his ears, and muttering to himself, he finally unearthed the wretched book that was the source of his lateness to begin with. "Take that, you dumb paperweight! I knew you couldn't hide from me forever!"
"You wouldn't have this problem if you just cleaned out your locker once in a while," Mickey pointed out, his smile growing wider.
Matty chose to ignore that comment, and slamming the door shut, he said defensively, "Enough about me. Let's get out of here before everyone else has the same idea. Dai and the others are probably halfway down the street by now. Can't believe they didn't even bother to wait for us!"
"I told them to go on ahead after Mrs. Hanari started accusing you of not paying attention in class," Mickey replied, adjusting the straps on his backpack to ensure his digimon partner remained comfortable.
"Yeah, what was that about!?"
"Well...you did look like you were...lost in thought."
So he was watching me during class...
Matty felt a sudden warmth filling his chest, and grabbing his brother's arm, he said, "Come on, let's blow this joint. If we hurry, we might even catch up to the others."
Mickey merely nodded, and together the two of them proceeded to fight their way through the bodies clogging the hallway before hurrying towards the main entrance. Technically, Mrs. Hanari was just as much to blame as the book, since she had decided to harass him right after the bell rang, but at the moment that was the last thing on his mind. Instead, he was thinking about his brother.
Since he showed up at school with Sam this morning, I haven't even had a chance to ask him about last night. I wonder if the two of them were getting along okay...
Since now was as good a time as any to ask, Matty glanced at his twin and said nonchalantly, "How was yesterday? Did you and Sam have fun hanging out together?"
"Oh," Mickey gasped, immediately looking flustered. "I...yes. I always enjoy spending time with Sam. You know that."
Studying the older twin's flushed cheeks, Matty wasn't quite sure what to think of his brother's response. It was evasive at best, and even more worrisome was the way it mirrored the strange behaviour that had become commonplace ever since the incident in the waterway. Not only that, but Mickey was clearly dodging the question, which also contradicted the older twin's normal behaviour.
He's usually so honest and open. It feels wrong to see him trying so hard to hide his feelings.
Spurred on by a sudden surge of anxiety building his chest, Matty moved closer to his twin to avoid a rowdy group of boys heading in the opposite direction and said easily, "Did you guys do anything in particular?"
"No," Mickey replied, avoiding his eyes. "We just...worked on our school projects and talked about whatever came to our minds. He...do you remember that Sunday we talked to Izzy and I went to Sam's house afterwords?"
Intrigued, Matty said, "Yeah, I got forced into doing my homework at Dai's house. What about it?"
Mickey paused to let a group of giggling girls pass by, and reaching for his arm to pull him around the corner, the older twin said softly, "That day, I...showed him some of my drawings."
Huh?
Matty felt his mouth drop open in shock, and gazing stupidly at his twin, he said, "Really?"
"Yes," Mickey confirmed, turning pink in the face. "He really liked them and wanted to see more, so last night I brought a few of my older sketchbooks with me so he could look at some of my earlier work."
You finally did it...
For a moment, Matty was at a loss for words, and then wrapping an arm around his brother's shoulders, he beamed at the older twin and said happily, "About time! Took you long enough!"
"W-what do you mean?" Mickey asked, looking both surprised and understandably confused.
Before confessing, Matty had felt his brother's obvious hesitation to bring up the subject, though he couldn't understand why the older twin had felt so nervous about telling him something that wasn't even that big of a deal. For years, he had been encouraging Mickey to share his talent with the rest of their family and friends, but despite the constant nagging, the older twin had refused to budge on the subject.
Which makes me wonder. Why now? What changed? Why did he suddenly feel the need to show his artwork to Sam? I mean, don't get me wrong, I'm definitely super happy he did, but...it does make me wonder...
It was an interesting thought, but instead of delving too deeply into the matter, since now wasn't the time, Matty merely gave his brother a look before saying, "Seriously? You know exactly what I'm getting at. I've been telling you for years to let the others see your work. What made you finally change your mind?"
He was dying to know, even if he had to wait for a more detailed explanation, but instead of receiving a solid answer, Mickey merely shrugged his shoulders and said quietly, "The timing felt right."
What in the Digiworld is that supposed to mean? Well, whatever. I'll bug him about it later. Speaking of his artwork, I guess I shouldn't mention how Kara took a peek at his sketches when we were staying at that cabin in the Digital World...
"Are we going or not?" Goldmon complained, his small voice filtering out of the small opening in the zipper of his backpack.
Glancing over his twin's shoulder, Matty could see the main foyer at the end of the corridor, and tugging his brother forward, he said hurriedly, "Great, now we're never going to catch up to the others."
For some reason Mickey looked incredibly embarrassed, and nudging the older twin ahead of him, Matty burst through the front doors, almost blinding himself in the process. After spending the last few hours in class, the afternoon sunshine stung his amber eyes, and spotting a familiar figure waiting for them under a tree nearby, he stopped short in surprise.
Isn't that...
"Sam!" Mickey blurted, immediately growing flustered. "What are you doing here? I thought you left already."
His sapphire eyes sparkling like jewels under a deep blue sky, Sam slowly stepped forward and said pleasantly, "I got held up by Seta in the hallway, so I figured I might as well wait for you two."
That caught Matty's interest, and crossing his arms over his chest, he said, "What did Mr. S want?"
"Nothing in particular. He just wanted to wish us good luck in case he didn't have a chance to do so tomorrow. What took you guys so long?"
"The usual," Mickey sighed, though he still seemed unusually nervous over the raven-haired Digidestined's unexpected presence. "Mrs. Hanari tried to lecture Matty, and then he couldn't find what he needed from his locker."
"Serves you right for not paying attention in class," Sam scolded, looking amused.
"I was paying attention!"
So Sam noticed, too. Huh...If they were watching me, were they also watching each other?
He had so many questions, he didn't even know where to start, not that it mattered. Before he could even open his mouth, Mickey shook his head and said sweetly, "Setting Matty's questionable habits aside for the moment, we should really hurry."
"You're right, as always," Sam agreed, smiling at the older twin. "Shall we then?"
Once again, Mickey's cheeks turned a delicate shade of pink before the two boys started off down the sidewalk, and falling in behind, Matty took a moment to study the raven-haired Digidestined and his overly shy twin with careful scrutiny. Sam and Mickey were walking next to each other, and though they weren't touching, there was an air of fragile caution between them. It was almost as if they felt like moving any closer would break the weird sort of delicate balance that was keeping their feelings in check, and thinking on their behaviour towards him, Matty felt his golden eyebrows narrow into a frown.
During the last two and a half weeks, he had done his best to act as normal as possible around Sam and Mickey in the hopes of tricking them into believing he hadn't noticed their odd nervousness around him, but the longer it progressed, the harder it was for him to continue acting as if nothing was wrong. Truthfully, he wasn't certain how much longer he could keep up the act, which was why he needed to speak to his brother as soon as possible.
I just need to figure out the best way to approach Mickey without scaring him off...
"Hurry up, Matty!" Mickey called out, waving him over. "You're lagging behind!"
Realising he had almost come to a dead stop, Matty quickly raced to catch up, and falling in step with the other two, he said sheepishly, "Sorry about that."
"Care to tell us what's on your mind?" Sam asked, raising his dark eyebrows.
Matty glanced at the raven-haired Digidestined, and refusing to rise to the bait, he said boldly, "Care to tell me what's on yours?"
That shut the other boy up real quick, and glancing nervously between them, Mickey said hesitantly, "Is everything alright?"
"It's fine," Sam replied, giving the older twin a reassuring smile. "I'm sure we all have a lot going on in our heads, especially now that Gennai's found the next Spirit Chip."
Don't remind me.
Matty had done his best not to think about the Spirit Chip all day, and letting out a sigh, he grumbled, "Best not to keep Gennai waiting then."
Even if I don't want to know who it belongs too...
They hurried the rest of the way in silence, and upon reaching the Motomiya residence, they were met by Davis at the door. Grinning at them, the former leader said, "Don't worry, you're not late. Gennai only just contacted us. He hasn't been waiting for very long."
"Well, that's good to know," Mickey said softly, his amber eyes straying towards the faint voices coming from the right. "Shall we get started then?"
"Might as well," Sam agreed, though he didn't seem all that eager to hear what Gennai had to say either.
Probably because he has the same fears I do...
The mere thought created a sudden lump in his throat, and shaking his head to clear it, Matty quickly followed the others into the living room. Pausing just inside the door, he took a moment to study the other occupants who were already seated. Mina and Izzy were sitting on the loveseat with Taniko snuggled between then, and to their left, Cody, Rosa, Kenzo, and Noriko were occupying the sofa. That left Davis, who moved to sit on the arm of the sofa next to his wife. Yolei, Ken, Miya, and Noah were sprawled out in front of the television, which left his own parents, Rina, Nao, Ami, and Ryoko sitting on the floor closest to the door. Dai and Takara were sharing the armchair with Shadow, and the digimon were in their usual spot by the window. Since Sam and Mickey had yet to move, Matty decided to plant himself on the ground next to Ken, and a moment later his twin and the raven-haired Digidestined decided to join him. Mickey was sitting in the middle, and after letting their partners out to join the other digimon, Izzy said pleasantly, "Ready to get started?"
"No," Ryoko said bluntly, making a face. "But I guess we don't have a choice."
No kidding.
Matty had a feeling those who were present that afternoon were there for a reason, but he didn't have the mental stretch to figure out the significance as to how the pieces of the puzzle all added up, thus giving him the clues he needed to determine who the next Spirit Chip belonged to. That was a job best left for Izzy, and in the meantime, he was going to watch his brother like a hawk.
Look at him. It's just like what happened in the library. He obviously wants to be close to Sam, but it's like there's something holding him back.
At the moment, Mickey was sneaking looks at the raven-haired Digidestined when he thought the other boy wasn't looking, and as soon as Sam turned to greet his little brother, the older twin inched closer, stopping only when the two of them were near enough to touch. At first, Sam didn't appear to notice, since his attention was focused on Nao, but the moment the raven-haired Digidestined turned away, he paused, his sapphire eyes flashing before his face settled into a neutral expression. As far as Matty could tell, it looked like Sam was questioning whether or not Mickey had moved closer to him or if he was just imagining things and the older twin had actually been there the whole time, which in itself was unusual.
They're always sharing their personal space, and it was never a problem until they had that disagreement in the waterway...
Refusing to acknowledge Sam's intense gaze, Mickey blushed before quickly averting his eyes, but despite such a timid reaction, the older twin refused to budge from his seat. Their behaviour was baffling to say the least, but the tension only lasted briefly before the two boys allowed themselves to settle comfortably next to each other.
I guess that means they're fine? Ugh, this is so aggravating, but seriously, I can't be the only one who noticed Mickey's weirdness and Sam's bizarre reaction.
A quickly glance to his right was enough to confirm that he wasn't, in fact, the only one who had witnessed anything out of the ordinary, and studying Ken's face as the former Emperor gazed intently at his son, Matty felt a small spark of hope in his chest. If Ken was aware of the situation, maybe the older man would have better luck getting through to Sam.
Or maybe not. Who knows anymore.
"We'll likely have a bigger crowd tomorrow afternoon, but I wanted to make sure those who needed to be here were able to make it," Izzy explained, sitting back in his seat. "And now that I've said that, I'm sure you all know the reason some of you are here is because your presence in the Digital World will be required for the next Spirit Chip."
"That much was obvious," Ryoko agreed, his expression growing serious. "So before I try to figure out the truth for myself, you might as well break the news to us."
"I'll let Gennai do the talking," Izzy announced, turning his laptop around so they could all see the screen. "That's why he's here, after all."
"You mean it's not just for show?" Davis joked, dodging an affectionate slap on the arm from his wife.
The moment of truth...
Despite the seriousness of the situation, Gennai looked like he was in surprisingly good spirits. There was a pleasant smile on his handsome face, and giving a small wave, the robed figure said warmly, "Greetings, Digidestined. Once again, I apologise for the delay. Due to its remote location, this Spirit Chip was particularly difficult to locate."
"Great, we've barely started and I'm already worried," Dai joked, his arm going around Kara's shoulders. "Is this one of those good news and bad news sort of things? Cause if it is, you might as well start with the bad news."
Gennai laughed at that, and leaning forward, the robed figure said lightly, "I don't think we're quite at that stage yet. I'll explain in greater detail tomorrow once you've arrived in the Digital World, but I at least wanted to give you an idea of what's going on so you have time to prepare. After all, it's going to be a bit chilly."
Aw, man. Really? I've had just about enough of that continent already!
Picking up on the hint just as quickly, Ryoko let out a groan before saying, "I take it that means this new Spirit Chip is also located on the continent of Net in the Northern Hemisphere?"
"You assumption would be correct," Gennai replied, cheerfully ignoring the golden-haired Digidestined's glare. "While we do not know its exact coordinates, there will be digimon who are native to the continent of Net that can provide further direction. That's something I will explain tomorrow. What I can tell you is that the Spirit Chip resides somewhere deep within a mysterious place known as the Glacial Waterfalls. We have reports that several digimon have witnessed a peculiar glow emanating from the area."
"Sounds lovely," Yolei said sarcastically, wrinkling her nose. "Trudging through a frozen wasteland. It'll be loads of fun."
"If you know that much, then you know the colour of the light those digimon saw with their own eyes," Ken said quietly, reaching for his wife's hand. "So, who's it going to be?"
Matty felt his stomach clench, and without even realising what he was doing, he felt himself move closer to his twin. Almost immediately, Mickey's arm went around his waist, and glancing at his parents, he didn't miss the worried looks on their faces. Even Rina looked scared, and clasping his hands together, Cody said calmly, "Can you tell us?"
I don't even care anymore. i just want to keep Mickey safe...
Gennai was silent for a moment, and directing his attention towards the dark-haired man, the robed figure said, "I've requested T.K., Kari, Ken, Yolei, Rosa, Izzy, Mina, and yourself to provide additional support for Dai's team in the Digital World. Now that you have the ability to DNA digivolve again, you and Yolei can assist Kari and T.K., and I would like Izzy and Mina to come along for other reasons I'll explain tomorrow. I also assumed if you were coming, you would prefer to have Rosa by your side."
Wait, so if Gennai has other reasons for inviting some of the people here then that means...
"There are only two Spirit Chips left," Sam said slowly, his sapphire eyes beginning to sparkle with intense emotion. "Based on who's here in this room, the Spirit Chip we're looking for has to be protected by the Crest of Light, the Crest of Hope, and the Crest of Kindness. The only other crest that's currently represented in this room is the Crest of Knowledge, which has already been used twice. If we go by that analogy, then the Spirit Chip we're looking for...has to be the Spirit Chip of Innocence."
A heavy silence filled the room, and slowly lifting his eyes, Mickey said in a trembling voice, "That light. What colour was it?"
"It was orange," Gennai confirmed, his lips turning up in a sympathetic smile. "A brilliant orange."
So my worst fear has come true. It really does belong to Mickey...
Matty was at a loss for words, and uncertain of how to response, he proceeded to huddle closer to his twin. On Mickey's other side, Sam had reached out to touch the vulnerable boy's shoulder, and speaking in the older twin's ear, the raven-haired Digidestined said gently, "It'll be okay."
"I know," Mickey murmured, reaching out to give Sam's hand a quick squeeze. "It's not me I'm worried about."
Matty knew that comment was for him, but he didn't have the strength to respond. Instead, he let his head rest on his twin's shoulder, and watching them closely, their mother said hesitantly, "Are you boys alright?"
"Why aren't you saying anything?" Rina demanded before crawling into their father's lap. "You're scaring me!"
What do you want me to say? I'm completely freaking out right now and just the thought of Mickey having to suffer absolutely terrifies me, but at the same time I feel...resigned to the inevitable. I mean, I knew this was going to happen. It was only a matter of time, and truthfully...maybe it's for the best that the Spirit Chip belongs to Mickey. At least then all of this will be over a lot faster compared to if his Spirit Chip had been the last one. All of that waiting would have driven me nuts...
"Matty?" his father asked, clearly concerned. "Are you sure you're okay? I'm really starting to worry about you."
"Please, Matty?" Mickey pleaded, hugging him tightly around the shoulders. "I know this isn't want you wanted, but-"
"I'm fine."
"Matty..."
He really is a great brother. He always puts me before himself, and that's what makes me worry so much...
Letting out a deep sigh, Matty slowly lifted his head, and gazing at his brother's worried face, he said wearily, "Honestly, I'm fine. At this stage of the game, does it really matter who it belongs to? Even if it had been mine, it would have only delayed the inevitable. Sorry, but...if you don't mind, I'd rather not talk about it right now. I just...need some time to absorb everything, if that's okay."
"Of course it's okay," Mickey insisted, leaning into his chest to pull him closer. "Take all the time you need. Just don't forget I'm here for you no matter how you're feeling."
I know that. If anything, you should take your own advice.
Despite his heated thoughts, he knew now was not the time to get into an argument, and slipping his arms around the older twin's waist, he allowed himself a moment to appreciate the strength of the bond they shared. Hovering behind Mickey, Sam looked very uneasy, and as their eyes met, Matty felt something significant pass between them. Whatever it was, it seemed to help the raven-haired Digidestined because his expression softened, and the frown on his handsome face was replaced with a tentative smile. Somehow, Matty managed to return the smile, and keeping his voice low, he said quietly, "Remember, you promised."
"I know," Sam murmured, refusing to look away. "And I fully intend to keep that promise."
"What are you two talking about?" Mickey asked, twisting around to glance nervously between them.
It was Sam who answered, and poking the older twin in the arm, the raven-haired Digidestined said simply, "All good things. Nothing for you to worry about."
"Is there anything else you need to tell us?" Mina asked, addressing her words to Gennai.
The robed figure quickly shook his head, and smiling, he said, "The rest can wait until tomorrow."
"I have something to ask," Kara interrupted, holding up a hand to catch the young man's attention. "Any word on DarkAngelicmon? We haven't heard anything since Izzy told us about how he probably went to the Wall of Fire, which we're assuming is why he lost contact with Lucemon."
"He's alive and in good health, if that is what you're worried about," Gennai reassured them, though the robed figure's expression indicated he had more to say on the matter. "According to my sources, it appears he's keeping himself out of the spotlight for the time being. At least, that seems to have been the case over the last couple weeks. Normally, he would have been helping to search for the Spirit Chip, and while the Ruler of Darkness did have his servants tracking our movements, neither DarkAngelicmon nor YukiOnnamon were involved in the search. As for Lucemon, he has also been tracking our movements, but more on all of that once we have a chance to meet in person. The most important thing for tonight is giving yourselves a little time to get used to the reality of who the Spirit Chip belongs to. You should also make sure you're prepared for the Northern Hemisphere's harsh climate."
Why do I have a feeling searching for Mickey's Spirit Chip isn't going to be easy?
While that wasn't exactly the most encouraging thought, Matty wasn't going to allow the butterflies attacking his stomach to affect his mood. As much as the upcoming mission scared him, he needed to keep his cool if he wanted to make any headway with his twin once they were alone together at home.
Mickey doesn't even seem concerned about the fact that he's next in line to face all the insecurities floating around in his heart. If anything, he looks relieved. Probably because he's glad it's not mine...
There was a series of goodbyes as Gennai signed off, and getting to his feet, Izzy said, "We'll meet here right after school tomorrow, so make sure you're all on time."
"That goes for you, too, Matty," Noriko scolded, her firm tone indicating she expected nothing short of absolute obedience.
Yikes! She's even more scary than Yolei.
Speaking of the lavender-haired Digidestined, Matty could feel her disapproving gaze on him, and leaning over to whisper in his brother's ear, he said, "Let's get out of here before I get another lecture."
"You can't avoid them forever," Mickey teased, pulling him to his feet.
"No, but I can try."
As the two of them moved to grab their partners, Matty could feel Taniko's eyes on him, and glancing over at the young girl, he returned her gaze before she proceeded to move closer with the obvious intention of starting up a conversation. Reaching out to put a hand on his arm, the dark-haired female said softly, "Doing okay? I know you have a lot on your mind, and I'm worried about you."
She's...worried about me.
Matty felt his heart start to race for a different reason entirely, and shrugging his shoulders, he said easily, "Only one way to find out, I guess. I'll feel a lot better once this mission is over."
"I'm really sorry, Taniko," Mickey said quietly, looking guilty. "I know I'm partly to blame for causing you so much stress."
Wait, what does he mean by that?
For a moment, Taniko merely gazed at the older twin, and then reaching out to give the golden-haired boy a hug, she said gently, "Please don't blame yourself. I'm just as worried about you, and I understand where Matty's coming from. Don't ever feel like you're a burden to either once of us because that's about as far from the truth as it gets."
"Thank you," Mickey whispered, returning the hug. "I'll try to remember that."
Talk about confusing. What does Taniko have to do with any of this?
As much as he wanted to ask, now didn't seem like a good time, especially since he felt like there was more going on than what he could identify on the surface. Instead, he picked up his partner, and feeling suddenly bold, he reached for Taniko's hand and said earnestly, "I promise I won't do anything dumb, and...thanks for caring about my brother. That means a lot to me."
"I know," Taniko replied, her pretty face lighting up with a smile. "I wouldn't have it any other way."
Before Matty could even register what was happening, Taniko gave him a quick kiss on the cheek before running off to join her family, and gazing fondly at him, Mickey said softly, "She really likes you."
What!?
Matty instantly felt his face turn red, and shoving Palelymon into his brother's arms, he said hastily, "Let's go. I can feel Yolei's glares digging through my spine."
"Not so rough!" the aforementioned digimon complained, pouting at the harsh treatment.
"Oops, sorry."
Shaking his head in amusement, Mickey quickly dragged him towards the door, but before they could get very far, they were intercepted by Sam. Clearly, the raven-haired Digidestined had been watching the whole exchange with Taniko, and crossing his arms over his chest, the handsome boy said lightly, "Heading home?"
"That's the plan," Mickey confirmed, his cheeks growing pink from obvious embarrassment.
I wonder what Sam's thinking...
Before he could ask, Miya, Noah, and Takara appeared on the scene, and beaming at the group, the female Digidestined said, "Are you ready to go, Sam?"
"Huh?" the raven-haired boy asked, looking startled.
"Takara asked me if I would help her with her school project," Miya explained, taking Nao's hand as the young boy ran up to them with Glimmermon tucked under one arm. "It's similar to the topic I did when I was in that grade, so I figured why not? You and Noah can keep Nao company until we're finished."
For some reason Sam was gazing suspiciously at Takara, who was the picture of innocence, and eyebrows narrowing into a frown, the raven-haired Digidestined said, "Right..."
Can't say I blame him for questioning her true motives.
If he had to make a guess, Takara was likely using her school project as a ruse to get Sam alone in order to speak with him about Mickey.
And she's probably going to ask him about me, too. That's exactly what she did to me with Sam and Mickey.
Matty almost felt sorry for Sam, but considering the dark-haired boy was being a bit of an idiot, he had no intention of intervening. It would probably do his friend some good to end up under a microscope.
Hope she has better luck with Sam than I've had with Mickey so far...
"Let's all meet in the computer room after school and we'll go from there," Dai informed them, giving a thumbs up. "And watch out for Mrs. Hanari."
"You guys are definitely on her hit list," Ami agreed, laughing as she took Ryoko's hand.
As everyone began to go their separate ways, Matty reluctantly followed his brother and family out the door, and though he appeared calm on the outside, his chest felt tight with anxiety. This was his last chance to get at least something out of Mickey before they headed to the Digital World, and somehow he was going to have to make the most of it.