Disclaimer= I don't own Digimon
The Rescue
Hello everyone, I'm back again with another chapter. Again I apologize for the long wait, but fret not I'm back.
Anyways, this chapter will have the same amount of action as the last chapter. It will also show a little bit of the Dark Gennai's background and some of the Dark Overlords.
Also, there will be a bit of graphic violence in one of the scenarios. This chapter will also have more language than regular, since it's such a drag to be professional.
Enjoy:)
Sora:
I never thought this day could get possibly worse. Here I thought that today was going to be a regular day: Just go to the Digital World, check up on a small village and come back home. But no, the digital gods just had to take a major dump on us. Now my best friend in the whole wide world is probably being tortured or worse.
"Izzy, How much longer until we get there? It feels like we've been flying for days!", Yolei starts to complain. I look up from my position on Birdramon's back to see Izzy giving Yolei the most deadliest glare I've ever seen.
"For the trillionth time Yolei, we're not there yet! We still got a few more flying to do. The estimated time we should reach there is about three more hours!", Izzy says before returning to his computer. Soon though, the sky is filled with a bunch of complaints.
"THREE MORE HOURS!"
"WHAT ARE WE SUPPOSE TO DO FOR THREE MORE HOURS!"
Three more hours is a long time, but anything will be worth it if we can get to Tai faster. I would suggest that we fly all night, but the sky has already begun to get dark. More importantly, the digimons are starting to get tired and I know they'll need their strength for whatever we're going to face when we reach Tai.
"Hey Izzy, maybe we should set up camp for the night. Let's say, in about an hour and a half", I say trying to bring order back.
"That sounds like an amazing plan Sora! Besides, a delicate flower such as myself needs her precious beauty sleep", Mimi exclaims as she begins to swoon over the thought of a nice rest. After flying for what seemed like hours, we finally found a little cave that we could set up camp for the night.
"Are we really about to rough it in a dirty cave? We could've just flew throughout the whole night!", Yolei exclaims as she inspects the cave.
"I'll admit, this place doesn't really have the comforting feeling to it, but it's better than nothing. Besides...if we kept on flying, the digimon would have began to get tired and that's the last thing we need", I start stroke my partner's head.
"So who's going to take the first watch? If we don't want to get attacked, we should keep a watch out for enemies", Matt says as he tries to start a fire. After a while of debating the order was finally decided. The first person to take watch would be me followed by Matt, Joe and finally Izzy.
Soon enough, we're all sitting around a fire that lets a little bit of light engulf our little camp. The atmosphere is also engulfed in partial silence. Its not so much as an awkward silence, where no one knows what to say. Its more of a silence where everyone is quietly thinking to only thing that disturbs the silence is the happy munching of the digimon, snacking on fish that Matt and Ken caught.
"Look, I know that we're all worried about Tai, but silence is not gonna get us anywhere!", Davis voice breaks us out of our thoughts. I look up to see the goggle-headed boy with a fierce determination look on his face. Sometimes when I look at him, it feels like I'm staring right at Tai.
"As much as I hate to admit it, Davis does have a point", Davis's whine interrupts T.K. "He's right though, we should all be coming up with a strategy of the rescue mission for tomorrow".
"Here's a little something I devised on the flight", Izzy exclaims as he pulls out his laptop. A digital map with a red dot that I'm assuming is the place that we need to go shows up, "We can be sure to assume that they're holding Tai in a building or maybe even a castle. Where they're holding him though is unknown at this time. We can also be sure to expect traps and perhaps even a small group of minions that will likely be in our way. The best way to get Tai is to hit them with everything we got, quick and hard. Three people will enter the place and secure Tai. The rest will hold off the foot soldiers until said three return with the target. Any objections?"
We're all totally speechless at his well...speech. Man, I always knew Izzy was a genius, but this is beyond anything of what I expected. I feel like one of those soldiers in a meeting where they listen as the general instructs them on their task to infiltrate enemy territory.
"Wow Izzy, I think I speak for everyone when I say that this is almost the best plan of the century. You carefully thought ahead of the situation and secured every requirement we need to make this a success", Joe smiles as he pats Izzy on the back.
"I appreciate the flattering Joe, but this still isn't enough! I would prefer to not deal with the lengthy time schedule we have for the fight, but since I can't seem to pinpoint Tai's exact location, I'm putting each and everyone of our lives on the line! DAMMIT!", Izzy rages gets the better of him as he slams on his keypad.
"Just calm down Izzy. Your not putting anyone's life on the line. I'm amazed that you came up with this plan of attack on that long flight. We all have faith in you Izzy", Mimi says smiling. She then scoops his hand in hers and they stare into each others eyes.
"Can I get you two a room or something", Matt asks the two while smiling. Seeing their awkward positions, they immediately let go and move somewhat apart from each other, both blushing extremely. This causes a wave of laughter to wash over us.
"Mimi's right Izzy", Yolei says getting over her laughter. "We all have complete faith in you, so don't worry. I know that your plan will work perfectly, then we can rescue Tai and go home!"
"Yeah, no bad guy is gonna stop us from getting my brother back!", Kari says happily. It seems that she's feeling much better, considering that she wouldn't talk to anybody when we landed. Soon enough, we're all super pumped for the day to come.
"We should all get some rest for tomorrow. I can already tell that its going to be a busy day", Cody says as he gives a yawn. We all nod and head into the cave except for Sora and Biyomon, knowing that tomorrow morning is gonna be a treacherous one.
Tai:
"So Taichi, how many more sessions do we have to go through before you give me what I want? After all, it's been almost a whole day", Piedmon smirks sadistically. This is what calls sessions? I've been tortured relentlessly about something I don't even know.
"FOR THE BILLIONTH TIME YOU PSYCHOTIC CLOWN! I DON'T KNOW WHAT THE HELL YOUR TALKING ABOUT!", I say painfully.
"That's quite a shame Taichi. To think I was about to believe you too", Piedmon plunges the sword into my stomach. I didn't even realize I was able to take this much pain. My body can't stop shaking under the pressure of all this torture.
"What's the end goal your trying to get out of this? What happens once you supposedly get this power?", I give him a death glare. This makes him stop dead in his tracks. Next thing I know, he grabs my face in quick motion.
"That's none of you concern DigiDestined. All you really need to know is if my masters still wants you alive. Apparently your one of the focuses of our little group. I was lucky enough to be your torturer. Just be glad the masters haven't gotten their hands on you yet!", he releases his grip.
"So where did these masters come from? Their obviously strong enough to have someone like you as their pet!", Piedmon then pulls out what looked like a King of Spades card. The only difference was that the spades symbol were replaced by black skulls with bones.
"They're over thousands of years old. In fact, you or should I say your successors, faced one of them before in battle", he grabs my hair roughly. After a moment hesitation, Piedmon then cuts the razor sharp edge of the card directly next to my left eye. He then starts carving a line, stopping at my nose. All with the sickest smile I've ever seen. I literally have to bite my lower lip, the point where it begins bleeding, all to try to calm the pain. It also doesn't help that my new scar starts bleeding profusely, adding to the rest of my blood that is on the floor.
"Just you wait Piedmon, my friends are probably on their way as we speak. Once they get here, their gonna kick your sorry clown ass back to the circus tent you crawled out of!", venom seethes of my tongue. This doesn't even seem to affect him in the slightest, because he just starts chuckling.
"What do you think I've been waiting for!? The rest of the DigiDestined will, without a doubt, be on their way here to rescue you. Once they get here, I'll have a grand time with each and every one of them!", Piedmon howls with laughter.
"You better not lay a hand on them Piedmon! If you do I'll-", he interrupts me by slapping me.
"You'll do nothing you brat! Now that I think about it, the DigiDestined's of Love and Light seems like they'll be fun to break", his statement causes my eyes to start to darken. "Does that make you angry Child of Courage. Can you imagine it now? Their screams echoing throughout our little base. I wonder how much passion is locked away in those lungs of your beloved little sister", Piedmon smirk turns into insane laughter.
"SHUT THE HELL UP!", I roar at the top of my lungs. My shout causes a shock wave which causes him to fly into the wall.
"WHAT THE HELL WAS THAT!", his expression is one of pure shock. My pupils turn to a shade of dark orange, while my scleras turn bloodshot. My upper fangs start growing to resemble a vampire's. (A/N: Take note, this transformation will play a important role later in the future).
"YOU FUCKING ROTTEN, DIRTY ANIMAL! IF YOU EVEN TOUCH THEM, I'LL RIP OFF YOUR LIMPS ONE BY ONE!", I start struggling against my confines. To be honest, I don't even know what I'm doing. It feels like my body is moving on it's own accord...or somebody else is controlling me.
That's it...you know what's must be done. Entrust you heart to me.
Who the hell was that?! Great, please don't tell me I'm hearing voices. It's bad enough that I'm being tortured, but now I'm going crazy.
No need to be alarmed. Let me help you...I can give you all the power you'll ever need. Trust me, you'll shall not be sorry.
Look whoever or whatever you are! I don't know what your selling, but I'm not buying anything. This seems like a trap.
I assure you its not. Why won't you accept my help? Is it because your scared? Scared that you won't be able to control it?
Me scared?! Let's get something clear whoever you are...I'm not afraid of anything! Now for the last time, get out of my head! Great, I'm literally having a conversation with an invisible person.
Everybody is afraid of something. Fear dwells within everybody's heart...even in your's Taichi. As for power, that is something that can drive any man to insanity...unless your strong enough to overcome it.
Can you just get out of my head already! Who the hell are you anyways?
I'm the stronger side of you Taichi. Just let me take control for a while and this clown can be gone in the blink of an eye! Open your heart up to the potential hidden deep within yourself.
What hidden potential? If I have any potential, I think I would've figured it out already.
ENOUGH! I grow tired of this nonsense. If you won't give your body, I'll just have to take it by force. Finally, the mysterious voice shows itself. The silhouette is a humanoid figure, the only thing is that it's covered in a thick layer of darkness. It's eyes take on the color of dark orange. Before I'm able to put up a fight, the figure evaporates into smoke before rushing into my mouth.
"Incredible! So this is the power they seek!", Piedmon exclaims as he unsheathes one of his swords.
"This is what you wanted Piedmon! The power that we DigiDestined possess!", I say threateningly. My body keeps struggling against its confines. The substance keeping me bound soon starts to break, allowing one of my hands to be set free.
"This should be interesting indeed!", Piedmon grip on his sword tightens. Before either one of us can make a move, a dart embeds its way into my neck.
"What...the...hell!", my vision gets all blurry. The last thing that I'm able to see before losing consciousness is a goat mask creeping from the darkness.
"That was reckless Piedmon! A few seconds later and he would've destroyed you", Astamon says as he steps out of the shadows. His left hand shows to reveal a blow dart gun.
"That's where your wrong my dear goat friend. He doesn't possess the power to harm me", Piedmon grins as he re-sheathes his sword.
"Do you really expect me to believe that. A child can see that your hand is quivering", the smirk under Astamon's mask grows. Piedmon lips turns into a straight line at this remark. He then puts force on his hidden hand to quell the trembling.
"Why have you come here Astamon?! Wait don't tell me, the masters sent you!"
"Well your half right clown, the masters did send me. I'm here to take over the torturing of little Taichi", Astamon walks over to my unconscious form. He then grabs my hair, showing my bruised and bloody face.
"Why!? Have I not been doing a grand job?"
"Piedmon, its been a whole day and he hasn't cracked in the slightest. In fact, all you managed to do was awaken a evil power locked deep within his subconsciousness. The only thing he took you for was a joke", Astamon releases my hair.
"That may be true, but I just need a bit more time. I'm sure to be able to get something from this DigiDestined!", the jester's voice rises.
"I'm afraid we don't have a lot of time left. Like he said, the DigiDestined are probably on their way here as we speak. You should go and fix up that shaking. I'll give him the medicine he needs to survive the morning. Afterwards, it's my turn to try to crack open that safe he calls a mind", Astamon exclaims as he gives a sadistic grin.
Dark Gennai:
To think that after everything I've ever did in my life, I would end up here. Back to one of the places where I swore that I would never return. The place to where it all started...and to where everything I ever thought was black and white with the world would end.
"So much for that", I mutter under my breath. I don't even know why I need to mutter, the place that I'm in is completely abandoned. Only a few handful are able to get into the place. As for this said place that I'm in, it's nothing special...to ordinary people. To me, this place holds more memories and history than almost any other place in the entire Digital World.
This place is also one of the most ancient building, being here even before the Digital World was reformatted by the Sovereigns and Yggdrasil, in an attempt to bury the tragedies and sorrow of the bloody old world. But that's a story for a different day (A/N: Hint hint).
As for the decor, its one of the most beautiful wonders of the whole world. The walls are a sparkling silver, with diamonds of every size embedded in them. The light shine brightly, illuminating every corner and crevice. The floor also has a silver color, it coming in the form of tiles. The ceiling however, is a pure golden color. It possesses ten different symbols, each with a different color scheme. But the real pride of the building is what lies in the center.
What lies there are four rows of neat, golden statues. The first row of statues, of which are closer to the front, are a group of nine teenagers. The group consist of five boys and four girls. The second row, of which I'm currently at, consist of four boys and one girl. The third is relatively different from the rest of the statues. They're animal statues, digimon to be exact. They're also bigger than that of the first two rows of statues, but not as big as the last row.
One of the digimon comes in the form of a tiger. The next one is a two-headed turtle with a giant tree sticking out of it's shell (A/N: Its the all the Sovereigns, including Huanglongmon. I personally do not feel like writing out their descriptions all over again. If you wanna know what they look like, refer to chapter four for reference).
Now we move on to the final row, which is personally one of my favorites. This row is outstandingly much bigger than any of the other rows, standing so high that the top of the statues head are almost touching the marvelous ceiling. There are only two statues here, but they are the most gorgeous ones. They consist of the same thing: two identical people standing next to each other. They're giving off great big smiles.
"To think that I would still be allowed here again, but I suppose that everything has a reason", I silently smile as I make my way over to the statue of the girl in the second row. I then put my hand on the statue's cheek. Its cold...just like that fateful day it all happened.
Images then begin to rush through my mind like a river. Images of blood, bodies, rain, victory and finally defeat. Ridding my mind of these images, I then stroke my hand alongside the statue's cheek, sadness pulling me back into it's grip.
"You've been watching over me for a long time haven't you?", I pause before I resume again. "If so, then you must've saw what I've done all those years ago. Heh, you probably already know what I plan on doing. You was always so smart and kind. I just came here to tell you that I had to do it. I may have some regrets, but I'll push them all down if I have to when it comes to you. I'll do anything once it comes to you. You were there for me at the beginning and even though you won't be there for the end, I'm not angry. You did what you had to do...and if there is an afterlife, I hope you made it."
"Gennai, its time for you to come back from wherever you are. Your plan is being put in motion about now", my partners voice rings through my ears.
Understood, I'm on my way back as we speak. Loosing mental connection with him, I take my hand off the statue and begin walking back towards the exit. Chancing one final glance at the statue's smiling face, I then give one of my smiles, before disappearing into nothingness.
I'll do anything for you...my love.
Kari:
"Kari, Kari! It's time to wake up now sleeping beauty", a voice ringing in my ears forces me to open my eyes. When I do, I come face to face with a pair of brown eyes and a gentle smile.
"Davis Ugh!", I exclaim trying to fight off the rays of the sun that managed to infiltrate my eyes. "Davis, what time is it?"
"I don't really know, but what I do know is that its morning. Your also the last person sleeping, so Gatomon and I came to get you", Davis laughs a little. I then look over his shoulder, to notice my partner looking at me with a smile on her face.
"Oh thank goodness, your finally up Kari. Come on, everybody's waiting for you. They're serving fish for breakfast", the little cat digimon says excitedly. I can't help but laugh a little bit at how her whole mood can change when fish is involved. I then rub my temples, but then I notice that a dark and blue jacket with a flame pattern is covering me like a blanket.
"Sorry about that. When I went to go use the bathroom last night, I notice that you were shivering. So to keep you warm, I gave you my jacket", Davis smiles. Suddenly, I feel my heart starts beat extremely faster. What's going on? Why did my heart just started beating faster?
Questions start rushing into my brain all at once. Before I'm able to dwell on the topic, Davis grabs my hand and pulls me up to my feet. "You ready to go? After all, Tai is just a few miles way from us", he smiles as he puts on his jacket. I then give a small smile before standing next to him.
"Yeah, I'm ready!"
"Here Kari. I saved a piece of fish for you", T.K says as he gives me the item.
"Thank you T.K, but I think I'll pass", I say as I hand the fish to my partner. "I'll be able to eat again once my brother is back with us", this statement cause most of the DigiDestined to smile.
"So, are we finally ready to go rescue Tai?", Mimi asks Izzy. The red head for his part, somewhat ignores her as he types on his laptop.
"We are indeed ready to head out, but before we leave", Izzy slowly closes his laptop. "I think we should talk about who's going in the area to rescue Tai. We all talked about the strategy yesterday, but that main topic wasn't established".
"He's right, we don't want there to be any unnecessary casualties", Tentomon exclaims backing his partner up. Soon enough, we're all sitting around Izzy trying to figure out what to do.
"What are your thoughts on the situation Matt?", Gabumon asks the blonde.
"Hmm Izzy does have a point. We can minimize less injuries if only three people enter", Matt exclaims as he wears the pros and cons of the situation.
"Well If that's the case, why don't we send Joe in there", Yolei says out of the blue. This causes all of us to stare right in Yolei's direction, except for Joe (who looks like he's about to faint).
"B-But wh-why m-me?!", Joe asks as his voice rises with fear. I would also like to know why she chose him.
"Yolei, your a genius! I can't believe I didn't think of this myself", Izzy says smiling in her direction.
"Her? Why is she a genius?", Davis exclaims.
"Isn't it obvious? Joe's a doctor, meaning if Tai does have any injuries, he might be able to patch them up!", Izzy explains the statement.
"Hey, that does work out perfectly. Looks like we got spot number one down", Cody smiles.
"Hey wait! I never agreed to this!", Joe starts whining. When he realizes no one is paying attention to him, he just starts sulking.
"Don't worry Joe, I'll be there to protect you!", Gomamon says putting a paw on his knee.
"I'm afraid that's not possible Gomamon", everybody's attention then shifts to Izzy. "You see, I already decided on who the remaining two people should go with Joe. I personally think Sora and Kari are the prime two candidates that can successfully locate Tai". This statement perks my ears up and I can tell that it gets to Sora also because of her expression.
"Why are those two the prime candidates? I mean we all wanna rescue Tai right?", Cody asks baffled. I personally would also wanna know the answer to this.
"Its simple answer really: Sora and Kari are connected more to Tai than anyone else", Izzy says as he mentally smacks himself on the forehead.
"Hey he's right! Kari is Tai's little sister and Sora's his...girlfriend", Mimi chuckles the last part. This remark causes Sora to fly off the floor.
"WHAT! DON'T BE RIDICULOUS! TAI IS JUST MY BEST FRIEND, NOT MY BOYFRIEND!", Sora screams as she tries to defend herself. Its not really helping, since she's as red as a tomato. This cause all of us to burst out into laughter. Even the digimons starts laughing.
"Don't worry Sora, we're just messing around. But Izzy does have a point. We would be the best well equipped to get Tai back", I lightly smile. This seems to calm Sora, because she ends up sitting right down.
"Alright alright! We got our three people, but why can't I go with them Izzy?", Gomamon asks suddenly.
"Well Gomamon...it's because we're gonna need you on the battlefield. We're all gonna distract the digimon outside, that way we're creating a diversion for the remaining three. That's why I suggest Gatomon goes in with them. Besides, she doesn't need to digivolve since she's already a champion. Since we don't have our crests, the most we have is numbers and they can afford to sneak in quietly", Izzy finishes talking.
"Wow Izzy! What would we ever do without you?', I say happily. He just gives of a smile as he shyly rubs the back of his head.
"Do you three think your up to the challenge? We can't tolerate any failure on this! We only get one shot to get Tai back!", Matt says as he looks at us. You don't got to tell me twice. I'll do anything if it means getting Tai back. Just you wait big bro, I'm on my way. We then nod, knowing the risk of this mission.
Davis and Ken then pull out their D-3's and a bright light envelops their digimon.
"Let's go get that idiot back!", Matt grins.
Joe:
I know it's not really hard to believe, but I'm extremely nervous right now. Since we decided not to waste time anymore, Davis and Ken decided to DNA digivolve their digimons to form the mighty Imperialdramon. That means we should only be getting their in a few minutes. Oh man! Why did they volunteer me for this job? I'm too young to die! No Joe, don't quit now. For crying out loud be a man!
"Hey you guys! The area just around that mountain side. Be ready to expect attacks", Izzy's voice snaps me out of my train of thought. Okay moment of truth! Don't chicken out now!
"Don't look now guys, but we're in for some fireworks!", Matt says as a energy ball begins heading in our direction. Seeing the attack coming, Imperialdramon quickly shifts out of the way.
"Is everyone alright!?", I manage to let out as I get my bearings together.
"Yeah we're fine, but who the hell shot at us!?", Yolei exclaims frustrated. We all look towards where the attack came from and our eyes go wide. On the cliff of a large and vast plain is a gigantic castle. The bricks are obviously old, since you can see the cracks even from here. There's also a weird, ominous atmosphere here, as if the castle are just begging to trap a poor, unfortunate soul into it's depths. There's also a mighty river that flows underneath it. They want me to go in there!
What really gets us though is the two murderous looking digimons staring directly at us. "Metal...Seadramon!", Kari starts.
"Machine...dramon!", Izzy finishes. I can't believe this! Two of the Dark Masters are back. If memory serves me correct, these two were some of the most vilest digimons who has ever tried to kill us.
"NO! THAT'S NOT POSSIBLE! HOW...THEY CAN'T BE BACK!?", Mimi says shocked. I can't tell that everyone is going through the same feelings as me, because nobody doesn't even say anything.
"We'll have to worry about that later! For now, we need to find an opening so Joe, Sora and Kari can make it through", Izzy exclaims as he gets over his shock. Dammit he's right. The important thing right now is getting Tai back. We can't fail! We all then nod our heads, our purpose clear.
"Alright guys! The moment we make an opening for you go in, take it!", Matt says as he pulls out his digivice. We all smile and as soon as we get to the ground, all our (except Kari) digivices and D-3's glow brightly.
"Gabumon digivolve to...GARURUMON"
"Biyomon digivolve to...BIRDRAMON"
"Tentomon digivolve to...KABUTERIMON"
"Palmon digivolve to...TOGEMON"
"Gomamon digivolve to...IKKAKUMON"
"Patamon digivolve to...ANGEMON"
"Hawkmon digivolve to...AQUILAMON"
"Armadillomon digivolve to...ANKYLOMON"
Seeing as how their opponents are ready to battle, the two mega digimon charge into action. "Oh how I waited for this day digi-chumps! I'm going to take my time with each and everyone of you!", MetalSeadramon laughs insanely.
"Prepare to be digitized you worthless humans", Machinedramon says as he gets his cannons into position.
"RIVER OF POWER", a blue beam of condensed energy fires from MetalSeadramon nose.
"GIGA CANNON", the cannons on top of Machinedramon's back fire energy balls.
"Let's do this thing!", Davis exclaims excitedly.
"HOWLING BLASTER", Garurumon says as he spews out blue flames from his mouth.
"METEOR WING", Birdramon releases her deadly fire as she unfolds her wings.
"ELECTRO SHOCKER", Kabuterimon cups his hands together before releasing a white lightning ball.
"NEEDLE SPRAY", Togemon needles start firing towards the enemy as she spins in the air.
"HARPOON TORPEDO", the horn on Ikkakumon's head flies off before revealing a missile.
"HAND OF FATE", Angemon hand glows orange before he thrusts it at the enemies.
"POSITRON LASER", the cannon on Imperialdramon's back charges before he fires the full brunt of the attack.
"BLAST RINGS", Aquilamon swoops down before firing ring-shaped beams from its mouth.
The ten attack clash with each other, creating an explosion big enough as that we have to cover behind rocks. A huge dust cloud soon covers the entire area, making it difficult to see anything. "This is your guys chance! This should be a perfect distraction for you to enter that castle. We all nod and immediately me, Kari and Sora are practically running for our lives our what looks like a door.
Sadly, we only get ourselves into trouble. "Well look at what we have here. Three pathetic little brats and one digimon ready to die. This'll be the last mistake you ever make", MetalSeadramon laughs before charging up his nose. Gatomo looks about ready to attack him but it's too late.
"RIVER OF PO-", Kabuterimon saves us by ramming head first into MetalSeadramon.
"Good job Kabuterimon! You rock!, I compliment the insectoid digimon. I then gesture to the three behind me and we finally enter the castle.
"Hmph, they're here Piedmon!", Astamon says stepping out of the shadows. The only thing that shows that he's not the only one in that room is the malevolent smirk plastered on someone's face.
Okay, now if I kidnapped somebody and held them hostage in a castle, where would I keep them? I keep looking back over my shoulder to see if my three companions are still behind me. When I notice they still are, I pick up the pace. We end up running through the hallways, cutting corners left and right. Is it just me, or our the walls changing?!
We still keep on running, but our lungs need for oxygen forces us to stop running. "This castle seems like it goes on forever. At this rate we'll never find my brother", Kari says as she finally catches her breath.
"Don't give up yet Kari! Tai's somewhere in this castle", Gatomon says rubbing her partner's back.
"Okay let's all take a deep breath. This is a castle right? Now where would you keep a prisoner in a castle?", Sora asks as she tries to rationalize the situation.
"How about in a dungeon? A castle this big should have one right?", I suggest. Gatomon on the other hand, has a look of doubt on her face.
"That would be way too easy, don't you think? Now that I think about it, this castle does somewhat remind me of the one Myotismon used to possess!"
"So what do you suggest Gatomon?", I ask rolling my eyes.
Gatomon obviously ignores my sarcastic remark and puts her chin on her paw, "Who knows! He could be either in the dungeon or at the top of the castle. Whatever way you slice it, we're completely lost."
"Sora are you okay? You haven't really talked much", Sora thoughts are snapped at the sound of Kari's voice.
"Yeah I'm fine Kari. It's just that something is telling me that Tai's this way", Sora says as she points down a dark hallway.
"Ugh, I think that should we should not go down the pitch black hallway!", my stomach starts to churn.
"No Joe! I'm sure of it: Tai is down that hallway!", Sora says a little irritated. As soon as she finishes her outburst, a red light erupts from her chest. The light shoots forth down the hallway, before cutting a corner.
"What the hell is that?!", I ask surprised. Sora just shakes her head, obviously shook at what just occurred.
"So...should we follow it?", Gatomon asks after a moment's hesitation. Seeing as we have no other choice, we then head in the direction of the light. The shadows seem to back off, in fear of the light that might repel them if they come too close. The darkness soon starts getting thinner, and after walking up a few flights of steps, we come in front of an gigantic door. The light coming from Sora also shuts itself off.
"WOW! I don't think I've ever seen a door that big before", I say obviously shocked. The door is pure black, with red rubies covering it. There's also a demon goat head in the middle of it. After wondering on who should open the door, the girls push me towards it. Please don't let this be a time where if somebody open the door, a monster pops up and devours the person.
After finally getting over my bad thoughts, I open the door. It opens slowly, letting the light creep its way past the defenses the darkness has set up. Soon the door is fully open, and as soon we enter...the door closes shut. But we don't need light to see what's at the far end of the room. Battered, bleeding and hanging from a wall is the person we came to get: Taichi.
"OH MY GOD TAI!", Kari says as she runs towards her brother. We all chase after her, since all of us are sure that we're not the only ones alone in the room.
"Kari slow down!", Gatomon stops her partner by grabbing the back of her shirt. By the time that happens, shes already at her fallen brother.
"T...T...Tai, what did they do to you!", Kari says as she caresses her brother face. After seeing my unconscious friend, rage starts boiling in my chest. His whole white shirt is pure red, an obvious sign that it's his blood. There's a bruise on his cheek, his hair and face is also covered in blood. Dammit! What kind of sick person does this to somebody else.
"You...guys!", a raspy voice breaks us out of our thoughts.
"TAI! Tai, your alive!", Sora says semi-happy. He lifts his head and his eyes still show the fire in their possessions.
"Of...course I...am. It'll...take more...than...that to..kill...me!", he starts losing consciousness again.
"No come on Tai! Please stay with us", Gatomon pleads with tears in her eyes. It's too late, he loses consciousness again.
"Wonderful my little DigiDestined. A marvelous show indeed", an unknown voice echoes throughout the room. In an instant, Gatomon jumps in front of us and Kari holds out her D-3, ready for a battle. Amidst the voice inside the room, the outside noise is a war zone.
"GIGA CANNON". Kabuterimon files out of the incoming blast and tries ramming into the machine digimon, only to be repelled back.
"Give it up insect! Your no match for us", Machinedramon dryly laughs.
'Keep it up Kabuterimon! You can do it", Mimi says enthusiastically. Izzy just smiles and gently cups Mimi's hand in between his own, who returns his smile. Soon enough, Kabuterimon, Togemon, Ankylomon and Aquilamon surround him.
"HOWLING BLASTER"
"RIVER OF POWER"
The two attacks combine, sending debris throughout the whole area. "Alright Garurumon, keep those attacks coming!", Matt says congratulating his canine partner. The mighty wolf just nods his head, before proceeding into the fray once more. Birdramon, Imperialdramon, Angemon and Ikkakumon just study the battle, waiting for the perfect chance to strike.
"I sure hope Sora's okay! She's been gone for quite a while", Birdramon says sadly.
"I'm sure their fine Birdramon, but you need to focus! We got more bigger matters to deal with!", T.K says as he dodges a piece of earth that was heading for his neck.
"Yeah, like stalling this trash long enough for them to get out!", Davis exclaims as he motions for Imperialdramon to attack.
"POSITRON LASER"
"So these are the some of the legendary DigiDestined! I can't believe some kids like them took out all of you", a second voice adds. We all back up away from Tai, since it sounds like it's coming from directly behind us. Sora however, freezes up at the sound of that voice.
"Aah the Bearer of Love. We just met yesterday and now we're almost inseparable", the voice mocks. Instantly, all our eyes are directly on Sora now. The second voice then steps out of the shadows and Sora's demeanor completely changes.
"ASTAMON!", she shouts. Astamon for his part, just starts laughing.
"Wait, so this is the digimon who attacked you guys yesterday?", I ask confused.
"Yes! I can never forget that creepy goat mask and that abominable gun", she hisses. I never seen Sora like his before. I just hope she doesn't try to attack him.
"Wait, wasn't there a second voice in the room just now", Kari asks a little nervous. The first voice just continues to laugh before appearing right next to Tai. The only thing that is visible is an eyeball. Soon enough, the entire body is shown, and that just lone is enough to make all of us freak.
"PIEDMON!", we all shout. What the hell is this creepy clown doing here! Great and just when I thought that things wouldn't get any worse.
"It's quite the pleasure to see all my little Chosen Children again! Oh how I missed you so!", he sys through gritted teeth. He then walks over to Tai's unconscious form and grabs his hair very roughly. This act causes all of us to get us really angry. He seems to notice, because now he's laughing just like a psychotic, depraved clown would.
"Is this the reason why you all came here? Oh what am I thinking, of course it is!", he pulls his hair upwards so we can see our friend's battered face. Piedmon eyes scan each and everyone one of our face before he smirks again. "Quite a shame really. A poor, trouble youth on the verge of dying because of his own stupidity. You should be proud of him though. After all that torture, he didn't crack once. It's a good thing that he won't be dying alone", his grip on Tai's hair loosens. He then begins unsheathing one of his swords.
"Did you do this!", Kari says menacingly. I can tell that statement shocks everybody in the room, myself included, because all of our eyes are on her.
"Kari? Are you okay?", Gatomon asks as she begins to worry.
"I asked you a question! DID YOU DO THIS TO MY BROTHER!", Kari yells as all her pent up rage starts to release itself. We're all stunned by this, but the thing that shocks me more is the bright pink light erupting from her chest. This sensation...its just like the thing with Sora.
Light begins to form all around her, forcing all of us to shield our eyes as the brightness encases the whole room. When the light starts to dim, we're able to finally open our eyes, but when we do the sight is amazing. Piedmon and Astamon are knocked unconscious on the floor, and Tai is free from his confines.
"Kari, that was amazing!", Gatomon says running up to her partner. Kari just turns around and smile, before she starts tilting forward.
"KARI!", I say as I run towards her. However, Sora is quick enough, because she gently sets her up against the wall.
"Kari, Kari! Are you okay Kari?"
"It's alright Gatomon. She's just unconscious, probably from whatever she did with that light", Sora exclaims as she tries to calm down the feline digimon. Seeing this as the perfect chance, I walk over to Tai and with Gatomon's help, we're able to get him on my back.
"Sora, we should go! I don't wanna see what happens when clown face and business goat wake up from their annual nap", I say a little forceful. Taking the hint, Sora is able to get Kari on her back also. We then rush through the hallways, seemingly being guided by the shadows. Soon though, we manage to get out to the vast, ongoing battlefield, where we attract the attention of Yolei.
"Hey yo- oh my god! Are those two?"
"Kari's alright, but Tai's on the verge of it. Where are the others?", I ask. Soon enough, Yolei manages to get the whole gang together, who each share Yolei's shocked expression.
"We need to leave now", Ken says as he whistles to signal the digimon. This however, causes MetalSeadramon and Machinedramon to catch the signal first.
"Oh no you don't! Your not leaving here alive RIVER OF PO-". Togemon right hand's the metal fish right in the face, cause him to fall right into Machinedramon.
"I am so over you two!", Togemon exclaims as she de-digivolves back into Palmon. Copying her actions, the rest of the digimon do the same and motions for us to hop on Imperialdramon's back. As soon as the last of us hops on, the mighty mega digimon takes to the skies, leaving the castle and the bad guys in the dirt. Soon though, the atmosphere changes dramatically. Sure we got Tai back and all, but I wish it wasn't under these circumstances. Lets just be glad that he's in one piece.
"How is he Joe?", Sora asks as she scoots closer to me. I then place my jacket around Tai's wound, unsure of how to answer this dreaded question.
"He's ice cold Sora, but he's alive. I can hear his heartbeat but it's gradually getting slower. If we don't get him to a hospital soon though...then I'm afraid that he's not gonna make it", I say sadly. These eight words cuts through everybody like a razor blade.
"But he is going to survive right? I mean this is Tai we're talking about! He's not gonna go out like this right!?", Davis asks confused. Just before I can even open my mouth, Matt is right by his side.
"I promise you Davis: None of us is gonna let Tai die. Joe will do everything in his power to make sure that Tai survives this", the blonde says optimistically. Now why did you have to do that Matt!? I'm not even sure if I can fix this. I'm even surprised he's alive, given on how much torture his body has received.
"Izzy, how's it going. Is there a portal nearby?", T.K asks worried. Ever since we got on Imperialdramon's back, Davis and T.K have been right at Kari's side.
Izzy then types a few more keys on his laptop, before becoming extremely frustrated. "GOD DAMMIT! IT'S NOT WORKING! The nearest portal is about eight miles south of here. We're not gonna get there fast enough", the red-head says as he shuts his laptop. Immediately Tentomon is at his side trying to comfort him.
"If that's the case, then we're just gonna have to take him back to Gennai's house and see if he can do anything", Ken says calmly. That's possibly the best idea I've ever heard. We all then nod our heads, and turn our attention back to our fallen friend.
"You heard the man Imperialdramon! We need you to hit the gas", Gomamon exclaims.
"I'm already way ahead of you!", Imperialdramon bellows before heading into mach speed.
Dark Gennai:
Usually when a person's plan would be messed up, they would usually be pissed off. Fortunately, I have much more patience than blundering buffoons like those. That's why when I was told that our special prisoner and his companions escape, I was relatively calm. The only thing that pissed me off though was that these four idiots had the galls to tell me that they tried to kill them. So you can imagine their genuine terror when I started to release my aura.
"Master...please have...mercy!", MetalSeadramon begs. I practically made them get on one knee and beg for their lives.
"Have mercy? HAVE MERCY?! What would mercy have done if all of the DigiDestined were killed huh!? I just can't snap my fingers and make it all better", I rise from my shadow throne. Even though my partner and I are just astral projections, we still have enough power to inflict harm on these idiots.
"Please sire. We didn't know that you wanted them unharmed", Machinedramon says wearily.
"Of course you didn't! Why, because you jumped straight to conclusions without even thinking", my partner adds in. It's sometimes nice to have a second opinion.
"Masters fret not. For this shall never happen again", Astamon says obediently.
"It had better not! Try this again and you'll be back in the Dark Area", my partner says threateningly. Taking the hint, they each nod their heads vigorously...except for one.
"Is something troubling you Piedmon!", I hiss.
"Will all due respect your Majesties. Wouldn't it have been better if we just slaughtered them all?", he asks as his lips curl into a tight grin. Hmm, it may be wise to keep my eye on him. The last thing I need right now is him trying something.
"No, it would have not been better! I need them alive. If we are to ever break free of our prisons, then we're going to need your chaos and the DigiDestined latent power", I say quelling my aura.
"So you mean to tell me that you purposefully let them get away!", he hiss that last part. Immediately after saying that, I kick him into the wall and grab him by his collar. Cracks are beginning to form around where his head and torso hit the wall.
"Listen here you two-bit circus clown, what we do is of no concern to you! You don't want to get out of control now do you Piedmon? Remember that it was I who resurrected you seven from the Dark Area. So as long as your concern, we have the power to destroy you all. Get out of hand again and you'll be the first example I set!", I release my grip on him.
He immediately starts coughing violently and sucking up air. He gazes up at me and I can tell that his eyes hold emotions. The two that I'm currently seeing is fear and hatred.
"Let this be a lesson to all of you: We will not tolerate any insurrection or treason! As for the DigiDestined, you have my permission to hurt them, but under no circumstances are you allowed to kill them. Is that understood?!", I ask reactivating my aura. All eight immediately nod and with one hand wave, I usher them out the temple.
"Will this plan really be enough. I have my doubts", my partner says obviously skeptical.
"Of course it will! We'll sap the DigiDestined dry and rule this world", I exclaim as I begin to chuckle.
Sora:
"How do you think Tai's doing in there?", Cody asks worried. That's the same thing I'm wondering Cody. As soon as we got back to Gennai's house, him and Joe immediately took Tai into the medical room to treat him. The only thing is, that was over four hours ago. The sun had already set and outside is pitch dark right now.
"I'm sure he's fine! This is Tai after all, he's a fighter! He won't quit until the very end", Davis says certain. I can't help but smile a little bit to myself. Davis really is the spitting image of Tai when he was that age.
"Your right Davis! Tai wouldn't let himself go out like this. He's way too stubborn for that", I say coming up behind him. I then glance over to the sleeping position of Kari. She's been sleeping ever since she got here. Man, whatever that light was, it really took a toll on her.
Everybody seems to be doing better now that Tai is back. Davis and T.K just started an arm wrestling match, while Cody and Ken are just talking. Yolei and Mimi are talking about lipstick and boys. Man, how can they even talk about stuff like that. Izzy looks like he's working extremely hard on his laptop. Why am I not surprised. Matt for his part, is feeding the digimon fruits.
A while soon past, and just when we think they're going to take forever, Joe comes out of the room. Almost immediately, we all run up to him and starts bombarding him with questions.
"HOW IS HE JOE!?"
"IS TAI GONNA MAKE IT?!"
"PLEASE DON'T TELL US THAT TAI'S GONNA DIE?!"
Seeing himself out of options, he puts his fingers in his mouth and whistles. Covering our ears, we then see that he took off his glasses to clean them. "I know what you all wanna say and yes he's fine! I can take you to see him right now, but you'll have to be quiet", he returns his glasses to his face.
"Please take him to us Joe", we all whisper. This is it! We can all finally see him after so long. We all then crowd into the medical room and there he is. Lying in bed, fast asleep is my best friend in the whole wide world. The love of my life: Taichi Kamiya. Even the digimon decided to gather, all except for Gatomon, who's still taking care of the sleeping Kari.
"You were all fortunate enough to get him out of there fast enough. If he had stayed there one more day...he would've been killed for sure. To be honest, its a miracle that he's still even alive. I've never seen somebody take that much of a beating and live to tell the tale", Gennai says with a smile on his face next to Tai. (A/N: Obviously he's lying, but you know, gotta be dramatic).
"I don't think its a miracle", Kari's voice startles us. We all then turn to see her standing in the doorway.
"What do you mean by that Kari?", Yolei asks confused.
"It's simple really: Tai's too stubborn to give up. He'll fight until there's not a single breath in his body anymore. That's just the type of person he is!", she smiles before walking over towards us and grabbing her beloved brother hand's. I can't do anything but just smile before taking his other hand and start rubbing it.
She's right y'know. He won't ever give up, even in a life or death situation. Don't you worry Tai! We're gonna take these bastards out! They messed with one of us, so now they messed with all of us. After all...this is war!
Next Time On AHOFP:
The powers of the DigiDestined returns
"With our powers restored to their original strength, we can make a huge difference in this battle!", Matt exclaims.
The Overlords begin their assault on the DigiDestined
"No, It can't be them! They can't be back!", Kari says as she shakes her head back and forth.
A certain situation pops up that can destroy or fix everything
"I love you Taichi Kamiya"
To be continued...
Author Notes:
Well, what did you think of this chapter. Leave a review and your thoughts for this. As I said before, I apologize for the long wait. This'll be the last chapter for 2017. I shall start posting again after January 7.
Anyway's, stayed tuned in for chapter seven.
Enjoy and have a happy new years
Review :)
:P