LEGACY OF DIGITA
Author's Notes: Picking up a little on the couples in this chapter. Also, I'm proud to announce, that here, in chapter 5, we finally have a plot! (nods, waves, and cheers all around)
Chapter 5- Prophecies
Taichi awoke to see the sun rising outside his window. The first thing the young lord noticed was the absence of pain. He looked at his bare chest and saw the discoloration was gone. When Tai looked at his arm where the arrow had struck, the wound was almost completely healed. In a few days it would be just another scar. The memories came back to him as he looked around the room. He saw his mother, his best friend Matt, his sister Hikari, Takeru, Mimi, Augumon, his squire Davis, Jyou; all asleep sitting in chairs and leaning on each other in various odd positions. To his immediate left, he saw her. Sora. She was sititng beside his bed with her head resting against the wall, sound asleep. Gradually, everything came rushing back. The night of the masquerade, his dance with Sora, the attack... Lord Kamiya's murderer. Taichi got up out of bed, trying not to wake anybody. He slipped on his boots and an open buttonless vest. He needed a moment alone.
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Sora woke up to find Taichi missing. At first she panicked. Where did he go? What happened to him? Then she noticed his boots were missing. "He must have woken up and left," the amazon thought out loud. At first, she couldn't help but smile at the thought that Taichi was recovering, but then Sora got up and frowned. "Stupid Tai. He should still be in bed. Doesn't he know to listen to the doctor's orders?" She quickly left the room to go look for the brown-haired lord, several different reasons going through her mind.
It wasn't long before she came out to the palace gardens and saw Lord Taichi by the statue of Jubei Yagami. He was practicing with two handaxes, apparently only having been doing so for a short while as he hadn't broken a sweat. Sora was about to walk up to him and give him a tongue-lashing (AN: Get your mind out of the sewer!) for getting out of bed in the middle of the night when one of his axes was loosed from his hand and imbedded itself in the trunk of the tree she was standing next to.
Tai's eyes widened in horror as he realized Sora was there and how clsoe he had come to accidentally killing her. "S-sora?" He dropped his other axe to the ground and ran to her. "What in the world are you doing here?"
Sora got over the shock and turned to scowl at Taichi. "I could ask you the same question," she shot back.
"What," he asked.
"What are you doing out of bed," the amazon demanded.
"I-"
"Don't interrupt me! That was a rhetorical question."
"But-"
"No excuses! You haven't fully recovered. You've been asleep for three days, but you aren't completely healed yet."
"Wha-"
"And just what do you think you're doing, leaving your room without telling us? Another assassin could attack you!"
"Well I-"
"Look me in the eye when I'm scolding you!"
"But i jus-"
"And another thing-" This time Sora was cut off as Taichi placed two fingers upon her lips. She was too surprised to react.
"Shut up for a second and let me apologize," Tai smiled. He lifted his fingers from her lips. "I'm sorry. I just needed some time to myself, and I guess I acted without thinking."
Sora just smiled back. "Stupid Tai," she said affectionately. "What was it you wanted to tell me the other night?"
"This." With that, the brown-haired knight dipped his head down and gave Sora a soft kiss on the cheek, causing both of them to turn bright red. Tai was mentally kicking himself, as he had meant to kiss her on the lips. Why had he stopped at the last second and kissed only her cheek? Still, it was a start.
"Lord Taichi!" Cray's voice sounded throughout the gardens, causing Tai and Sora to groan in frustration at the strange deja vu.
Cray came running up and hugged Tai like a son. "Lord Taichi, you're alive! You had everyone scared to death!"
Tai tried to realease himself from his servant's suprisingly strong arms. "Cray, relax! I'm alright now. I'm going back to my chambers. Please have my mother sent to my room as soon as possible. I must speak with her." The young knight finally managed to free himself and sighed as he left without another word.
Sora watched him go, remembering the events from the battle the other night. She couldn't blame him for being upset, but he was being foolish to go wandering around after an attack was made on his life.
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Taichi was laying face up in his bed, his father's shield amulet clutched tightly in his one hand.
Lady Kamiya began speaking. "It began long ago when Odaiba was first made a kingdom by Jubei Yagami," she said. "One of Jubei's greatest friends was the prophet Gennai. Gennai said one day that there would be twenty-four, twelve humans and twelve digimon, who would be blessed upon birth as 'digi-destined.'
"Of course, no one knew what he meant at the time. Gennai said the digi-destined would find the lost city of Digita, birthplace of the first digimon. Legends have always spoken of Digita and the mysterious Legacy it contains, but no one ever found it. Some people even called Gennai a false prophet for speaking of such a 'faery tale.'
"But Jubei believed Gennai. In a hidden area of the palace, the two inscribed the prophecy in its entirety and hid it. The shield amulet that has been handed down through our family for generations is the key to unlocking the hidden chamber containing the prophecy."
Taichi looked to the metal amulet in his hand. It displayed the crest of Odaiba: a sun, crescent moon, and eight-point star in a triangular pattern underneath an arch which was inscribed with nine runes representing courage, love, friendship, sincerity, knowledge, reliability, kindness, hope, and light, in order. "Mother, I don't understand." Tai traced his finger along the amulet and looked back to his mother.
"Well," Lady Kamiya began. "Your father said that he had read the prophecy once himself, and he believes that you, Hikari, and the sons of Ishida are four of the digi-destined. He never explained it to me, but that is what he said."
Taichi lay in bed, speechless, trying to take all of this in.
"To see the prophecy," Lady Kamiya continued, "insert the amulet into the crest at the foot of Jubei Yagami's statue."
"I think I'll do just that."
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Taichi stood in front of the statue of his ancestor, Jubei. At the base of the statue was the kingdom's crest. He inserted his father's amulet upon it, and a click was heard. The young knight backed up as he heard a grinding noise. Soon, the statue shifted away, revealing a hidden staircase. Taichi gulped nervously and descended.
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Izzy and Yolie were in the palace library reading over their notes on digimon when Taichi came. "Izzy, Yolei. I need some help. Do you understand ancient runic Draconic?"
"Of course," Yolie replied.
"Good. come with me."
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It was a similar story with Yamato, Takeru, Hikari, Daisuke, Sora, Mimi, Jyou, Iori, and all the digimon. Taichi guided them all down the stairs underneath the statue into a large underground chamber. The room was lit by a strange phosphorescent moss, giving it a dream-like appearance. On the far wall was a giant inscription in ancient runes. "This is the prophecy I told you about on the way here. I only understood a handful of the runes, but I knew enough of them to get my suspicions up. When Izzy and Yolie translated for me, I knew just how my father felt."
"What do you mean Tai," Cody asked.
"Koushiro, please read the prophecy."
Izzy cleared his throat and began reading the runes which were arranged going top to bottom. "Twenty-four in all, twelve humans, twelve digimon; Shall find Digita, they'll be the ones." Izzy looked up. "Rather interesting how they made this so that when it is translated into the common dialect it forms a rhyme, but I digress."
"Go on," Taichi urged.
"First is the Bearer of Courage, the master of blades; A natural leader and lord of flames.
"The Bearer of Love, amazon of the winds; Will capture the leader's heart and show the fury of wind.
"The crest of Friendship shall belong to; The loreweaver who commands song and the icy blue.
"Sincerity is the virtue of the woodlands girl; Friendship is her mate, her ally the natural world.
"The Bearer of Knowledge is a genius young man; Quick-thinking and resourcfeul, he always has a plan.
"Reliability is the strength to a healer of men; He who never gives up, and always shall mend.
"The Bearer of Hope comes forth with spirit and blade; His will of steel shall not be unmade.
"Bearer of Light is always with Hope shining bright; She casts her magic where once there was plight."
Izzy paused at this time. "The rhyming could have been better, but I suppose it is difficult to try and write something in one laguage so that the translation in a particular language rhymes."
"Well, take a moment before you continue," Tai said. He turned to the others. "Does any of this sound familiar to any of you?"
There was a long silence. No one spoke up. They knew what the brown-haired knight was talking about, but they didn't dare say anything. It was just too outlandish to be real.
"This prophecy just described eight of us," Taichi finally said, getting annoyed by the silence. "'Master of blades.' I'm a master-at-arms. 'Amazon of the winds; capture the leader's heart.' If that doesn't describe Sora, please tell me what does." The brown-haired lord then turned pink slightly, realizing what he had just said. He looked over at Sora who was also blushing, though with a smile on her face and her thoughts running faster than lightning with joy.
"Tai, as much as I would love to have a little fun with what you just blurted out, I think you're right. This is serious." Matt folded his amrs over his chest and glanced at Mimi. He was turning her section of the prophecy over in his head 'Friendship is her mate,' he thought. 'I do feel rather attracted to her, but this is just a touch... confusing. And besides, that statement in the prophecy could mean any number of things. I'm not sure what is going on anymore.'
Mimi was trying hard not to look at Matt. She was having a similiar line of thought and didn't know what to think. 'Yamato really is a wonderful person, but am I really growing to like him like that? I wish I could be anywhere but here right now.'
"I guess you could describe me as reliable," Jyou said. He felt the tension growing in the air, and decided that if no one else was going to break the silence, he better do it. He was certainly reliable.
Everyone saw the irony of the situation and couldn't help but smile as things seemed less heavy on their shoulders.
"Finish reading the prophecy, please," Tai said.
This time, Miyako picked up where Koushiro left off. "A second generation will come to bear; The crests of all, three holding a pair.
"The warrior of Friendship and Courage stands tall; He has much bravado, but a good heart after all.
"Love and Sincerity to a girl who speaks with the sky; She never fears to spread her wings and speak her mind.
"Knowledge and Reliability belong to a small boy with a pure heart; He never disappoints and from his friends he will never part.
"The Bearer of Kindness will have a fall from grace; Living an outlaw, he handles the world at his own pace.
"With digimon to bind them as one, the world shall be spared; When darkness falls and all living things are scared.
"The digi-destined together they shall be; These twenty-four shall find Digita and its Legacy." Yolie turned to the others, knowing as well as they did the gravity of the situation.
Taichi folded his arms and looked around. "The prophecy continues to tell us where the crests of these virtues can be found. Unfortunately, Courage and Friendship are said to be in Florisenn'Dulhai."
Matt looked over at Tai. "Marvelous. This just keeps getting better and better," he said sarcastically.
"Isn't that an elven kingdom south of here," Cody asked. His normally quiet voice was maginified a little by the cave and everyone could hear him.
"Yes," Tai replied. "Ever since Odaiba was founded by Jubei Yagami, the elves and our people have shared a shaky alliance. Ever tried talking to an elf before?" The question was rhetorical so the young knight continued. "They're very arrogant, aloof, and regal. You really have to know what you're doing to talk to one."
"They're not an easy audience to please, either," Matt added.
"Well what are we waiting for," Davis practically shouted. "If we really are destined like the prophecy says, then let's go!"
"It's not that simple," Koushiro said. "We're missing one digi-destined: the Bearer of Kindness. And besides that, how can we be entirely sure we are the ones the prophecy describes. You have to admit, it is rather vague."
"Izzy has a point," Yolie said out loud. "Although it looks like we're the ones, we can't be entirely sure."
"Well," Sora started, "we may never know unless we try." She then smiled. "Besides, I'd like to meet some elves. I hear they have the finest bows in the world."
The digimon had all been quiet up to this point. They knew of the prophet Gennai and when they heard the word "Digita" they all fell silent.
"Are you alright," Tai questioned them.
"Sorry," Augumon said, snapping out of his trance. "But we all were staying silent to show respect to Digita."
"I understand," Mimi said, pulling Palmon into a hug. "You digimon must feel a certain reverance toward the lost city."
Gomamon nodded. "That's right. I think there's something to this prophecy and I want to go see if we really are the digimon who will rediscover Digita."
"It's a little hard to swallow," Armadillomon said, "but I'm willing to put all bets on it at the flip of a coin."
"Then it's settled," Tai said firmly. "In two days we leave for Florisenn'Dulhai."
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As promised, the twenty-two humans and digimon left the palace two days later, set for a trip south the elven forests. The day they left was warm, but dark clouds were hovering in the sky and everyone drew their cloaks tight while Taichi and Yamato gave the crew a short lesson in the basics of the elven tongue and etiquette so they would know how to act when presenting themselves.
The first night passed without event and they marched on shortly before dawn. It was approaching nightfall when they stumbled upon a dark scene. Several covered wagons lay on the road over-turned and ruined. There were footprints everywhere, several arrows stcuk in the ground and trees, broken weapons, and a myriad of bones lay scattered about. Everyone stared in horror. "What happened here," Miyako asked. "Were the people in the convoy attacked by bandits? Or wolves?"
"No, not wolves," Mimi said. "A wolf wouldn't do something like this even with its pack. I fear it's something much more sinister."
Takeru walked up to the scene. He placed his boots within a set of tracks of similar size and began stepping through them, reenacting the movements of whoever made the prints. "There was a struggle here. They fought back, though unsuccessfully it would seem." He scanned the ground and each print. "There were five people... and four attackers. The attackers were bipedal, wore no footwear, and had claws on their hands and feet." TK then began reenacting the possible movements of the attackers, taking jerking, hapazard steps trying to follow the tracks. He surveyed the scene further. "These bones belong to humans, probably made by wolves who decided to capitalize on the travelers' misfortune. Unless..." He grabbed a handful of the sandy earth from one of the attacker's footprints and holding it in his fist, sniffed twice. He scowled and threw the soil to the ground.
Everyone stared at TK, waiting for his answer. They were not surprised by his skill, as they all knew he was one of the best trackers alive. The tension in the air was mounting. Everyone dreaded the grim look on the blonde lord's face, but also wanted to know what was going on.
"These poor souls. This attack was made not by a pack of wolves, but of ghouls," he said solemnly.
A collective gasp rose from everyone else. Of all of them, only Taichi, Augumon, and Patamon had ever seen and fought ghouls before besides Takeru. Everyone else had only heard how vile and evil the undead were.
"That's not the half of it," Takeru said grimly. "The attack was made this morning. Four ghouls of about the same size and weight as Tai, two of them armed. They're probably nearby."
"Then let's get out of here," Patamon squeaked. "I've fought ghouls before, and I have no desire to do it again any time soon."
No sooner had Patamon spoke, than the four hideous ghouls leaped forward from the underbrush, apparently lying in wait for more victims. They were terrible to behold. Thin and gaunt, looking emaciated with skin stretched tight over their bones and the same disgusting purple color as a severe bruise. Their eyes were black, but full of feral cunning nad hunger. They wore only tattered clothes and no footwear showing the gnarled talons on their feet that matched the ones at the ends of their fingers. One of them had a few patches of dirty white hair on his scalp while the others were bald. They had long sharp teeth and snakelike black tongues that kept flopping and slithering around outside of their gaping mouths. Two of the ghouls held a rusty dagger each.
Taichi was the first to react, drawing his longsword and lopping off the armed hand of the hgoul closest to him with a quick upward slash, causing the undead to howl in pain.
Gatomon lunged forward at another. "Lightning Claw," she shouted launching her attack. The swipe of her claws sent the ghoul flying back into a tree with a sickening crack as its spine broke. The creature fell to the ground bent in an unnatural angle, dead.
Sora took the handaxe Tai had given her that morning, took aim, and let it fly at the second armed ghoul. The blade spun rapidly through the air before landing in the creature's face with a sickening thud. The ghoul didn't even have time to cry out before it died. Dark blood began flowing from the undead's split face before it could even hit the ground.
Biyomon was about to go over and help Tai defeat his adversary, when her legs were grabbed from behind by the fourth ghoul. She felt its talons sinking into her wing as he tried to fly away. The bird digimon cried out in pain and fell to the ground.
With a quick lash of another axe, Sora beheaded the one-handed undead she and Tai were fighting and turned to see biyomon in trouble. "Oh no! Biyomon!"
Everyone turned to face the scene just as the ghoul's chest erupted forward in a spray of dark, rotting gore. As the monster fell dead, everyone was shocked to see Augumon standing there behind its body with his claws still extended forawrd and soaked in blood. "No one hurts my friends," the digimon said dangerously.
Taichi was the least surprised, but still stunned. Augumon rarely showed his violent side unless he had digivolved to Greymon. But there the little lizard digimon was, glaring at the ghoul's corpse, wiping the creatures rotting flesh from his claws. And as quickly as Augumon's violence appeared, it faded as he gently helped Biyomon up, looking sadly at her injured wing.
Sora rushed up and looked at her digimon partner's wounds. "Oh, Biyomon are you alright?"
"Yes, Sora," Biyomon said. "I'm alright now. Thank you, Augumon."
Augumon simply smiled as only he could. "You would have done the same for me."
"Hey," Takeru called out. "We better get moving. Where you find a pack of ghouls, there's bound to be more undead lurking around. Getting killed isn't a very big priority on my list of things to do."
"My sentiments exactly," Miyako said.
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Two days later, the group arrived in a grand forest of silver trees with lush golden leaves. They had reached the forest of Dulhai, home of the high elves. The sun refelcted off the silver and gold trees with aching beauty while the underbrush glittered like emeralds. According to the elven legends, this forest was created millennia ago by the gods. They created Dulhai from the purest gold, gems, and the beaitful elven silver called mithril. It was easy to believe. The forest itself possessed not just this dazzling beauty, but a sense of life radiating from it. As the humans and digimon stepped into the forest, it was like bathing in joy and life, like a warm blanket had been wrapped around them and touched their very souls with the wonders this ancient forest held. A small breeze rustled through the treetops, creating a pleasant sound as the leaves shuffled and danced on the wind and the many tiny birds took flight. The immersion in natural beauty was intoxicating, especially for Mimi, Palmon, and Takeru, who all seemed to be off in a dream world.
Suddenly, a tall figure appeared dressed in pastel blues with a flowing deep purple cape, seemingly from nowhere. He had long silver hair like the trees and skin pale as the moon. Long, delicately pointed ears poked out from his hair and his amber eyes seemed to be smiling just as his lips were. There was no mistaking who this individual was. Only one race of people were so fair and graceful. He was a high elf of Florisenn'Dulhai, the long-lived people of the forests. "Welcome, travellers," he said. However, only Taichi and Yamato understood him, as they were the only ones in the party who understood the complex and melodic elven laguage.
"We are from Odaiba. I am Lord Taichi Kamiya, but introuctions must wait," Tai said in fluent Elven. "We have come to see the King Luusullis. Can you take us to the palace?"
The silver-haired elf bowed deeply. "Certainly," he said, this time in common speak which everyone could understand. "I am one of the royal scouts. You may call me Amrufel. Please, follow me." The elf turned and began striding through the woods so quickly, it took everyone an extra effort to keep up. They were all amazed with the other-wordly balance and grace the elf possessed, as one must see these qualities which all elves are born with before you can believe them.
In a little longer than two hours, they finally reached a grand city built in the trees. Platforms high in the mithril and gold trees stretched wide with bridges and walkways connecting them. The buildings atop were crafted entirely of wood with very little stone. Dozens of elves walked through the raised city, engaging in their daily business. Had it been any other day, many more of the fair folk would be seen, but today was the day each week when elves left their jobs early to stay home with their families. Amrufel led them to a large platform at the base of the nearest tree. He sounded a small gong on one end of the platform and it lifted them all up into the city. "Come," their guide said as htey walked into the city. "The palace isn't far."
Amrufel was right, since a grand palace of mithril, marble, and the silver wood of the trees came before them after a short walk. They went past the guards into a grand hall with stone-tiled floors white as snow with many beautiful tapestries hanging on the wall depicting scenes from elven lore. "Stay here in the entrace hall until the guards call you into the throne room to meet with his majesty Luusullis." With that, the silver-haired elf left, his purple cape streaming out behind him.
Yolei giggled as she watched the retreating elf and turned to Kari. "I see those stories about elves being so handsome are true."
Kari giggled in return and glanced over at TK who gave her a playful look of mock jealousy.
It wasn't much longer before an elven guard, taller than Amrufel, at least six and one-half feet, with chain armor and a sword came walking in. Like all elves, he grew his hair very long, but kept it tied back in a ponytail to make fighting easier. "The King will see you now," he said in Elven. He turned, gesturing for them to follow him and walked down the halls to a pair of enromous red double doors. Two other guards stationed there opened the doors to reveal a grand white room full of fountains, statuary, paintings, tapestries, and potted plants. At the other end of the room sat King Luusullis. He was about the same height as Taichi clad in royal purple robes. He had golden hair grown down to his ankles and braided with silver ribbons. He had sky blue eyes and fair skin, and like most elves he looked perpetually youthful, though the length of his pointed ears indicated that he was coming to the final centuries of his life span, for elves live over a millennia and never show any physical aging. The only way to guess an elf's age without asking is to check the length of hteir ears. The longer, the older they are.
Taichi, Yamato, Augumon, and Gabumon walked into the hall first. Tai had told the others to proceed when he called them forward for introductions. "Your majesty," the two humans and two digimon said, down on one knee. They said the words slowly, drawing out the syllables as was proper when standing before elven royalty.
Luusulis rose from his throne, gestured for them to do the same, and walked to the four in front of him. He embraced them all in a single hug as if they were family "Welcome my friends," he said warmly in common speak. "Lord Taichi and Yamato. I haven't seen you two since Lady Hikari and Lord Takeru were born. My you two certainly have grown quickly. And of course Augumon nad Gabumon. Last I saw you two, you had only just matured to your present forms."
"King Luusulis," Tai began, "I would like to introduce you to friends and family. You know my sister, the Lady Hikari with her bonded digimon Gatomon."
"And my brother," Matt continued, "Lord Takeru with Patamon."
The four stepped forward towards the elf king, kneeling down and greeting him as their older brothers and their digimon did.
"Oh you can dispense with the formalities around me," Luusulis chuckled. "The royal houses of Odaiba and any of their friends will always be welcomed in the court of Florisenn'Dulhai as long as I rule." He bid everyone to rise and embraced the four younger siblings and digimon. "I haven't seen you four since you were but babes in your respective mothers' arms." He pulled away a little and looked them over. "Yes. Takeru, you are becoming a fine young man like your brother. Is it true that you are betrothed to Hikari?"
Takeru nodded with a faint blush, hoping that his silence would not be taken as an insult.
However, the elf king simply turned to Hikari and smiled. "You are quite a lucky man. It is very rare that a human woman is born so clsoe to elven fairness. And if half the sotries I have heard are true, then she is every bit as compassionate and kind as she is lovely."
Hikari smiled and looked away as her face turned the same shade of red as her robes. "Thank you, your majesty."
Luussulis then knelt down and stroked one hand over Patamon's back and scratched Gatomon behind her ears. "I never got a chance to know you two. A digimon is always welcome in the royal court and I hope during your visit I can get better aquainted with you."
The two digimon smiled as they looked up at the king. "We would be honored, sir," Patamon squeaked.
"Your majesty," Yamato said. "Taichi and I have several more people and digimon to introduce to you."
They next brought in Sora, Biyomon, Mimi, and Palmon. The girls were complimented similarly to Hikari and their digimon were also treated like old firends instead of new aquaintances. Then came Daisuke, Jyou, Iori, and their respective digimon partners who were given warm greetings. Luusulis embraced them all one by one like family. "So," the elf king said, "what is the nature of your visit?"
Tai stepped forward. "We have recently read an ancient prophecy by the old soothsayer known as Gennai concerning the fabled city of Digita."
Luusulis raised his hand. "Say no more. I know now of why you are here. We will discuss it over a banquet tonight. In the meantime, you look a bit scuffled so let's get you cleaned up."
No one had time to ask what Luusulis meant or how he knew of the prophecy before two dozen elven servants came in and guided the humans and digimon to changing rooms in the east wing of the palace.
End of Chapter 5
In Legacy of Digita Chapter 6- First Crests Discovered, Taichi goes off with Yamato and Daisuke to find the crests of Courage and Friendship hidden within the forests of Dulhai. Will they find them, or will they get more than they bargained for? And are the assassins ready for another round at Taichi's life? The only way to find out is to keep reading.
Author's Notes: Picking up a little on the couples in this chapter. Also, I'm proud to announce, that here, in chapter 5, we finally have a plot! (nods, waves, and cheers all around)
Chapter 5- Prophecies
Taichi awoke to see the sun rising outside his window. The first thing the young lord noticed was the absence of pain. He looked at his bare chest and saw the discoloration was gone. When Tai looked at his arm where the arrow had struck, the wound was almost completely healed. In a few days it would be just another scar. The memories came back to him as he looked around the room. He saw his mother, his best friend Matt, his sister Hikari, Takeru, Mimi, Augumon, his squire Davis, Jyou; all asleep sitting in chairs and leaning on each other in various odd positions. To his immediate left, he saw her. Sora. She was sititng beside his bed with her head resting against the wall, sound asleep. Gradually, everything came rushing back. The night of the masquerade, his dance with Sora, the attack... Lord Kamiya's murderer. Taichi got up out of bed, trying not to wake anybody. He slipped on his boots and an open buttonless vest. He needed a moment alone.
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Sora woke up to find Taichi missing. At first she panicked. Where did he go? What happened to him? Then she noticed his boots were missing. "He must have woken up and left," the amazon thought out loud. At first, she couldn't help but smile at the thought that Taichi was recovering, but then Sora got up and frowned. "Stupid Tai. He should still be in bed. Doesn't he know to listen to the doctor's orders?" She quickly left the room to go look for the brown-haired lord, several different reasons going through her mind.
It wasn't long before she came out to the palace gardens and saw Lord Taichi by the statue of Jubei Yagami. He was practicing with two handaxes, apparently only having been doing so for a short while as he hadn't broken a sweat. Sora was about to walk up to him and give him a tongue-lashing (AN: Get your mind out of the sewer!) for getting out of bed in the middle of the night when one of his axes was loosed from his hand and imbedded itself in the trunk of the tree she was standing next to.
Tai's eyes widened in horror as he realized Sora was there and how clsoe he had come to accidentally killing her. "S-sora?" He dropped his other axe to the ground and ran to her. "What in the world are you doing here?"
Sora got over the shock and turned to scowl at Taichi. "I could ask you the same question," she shot back.
"What," he asked.
"What are you doing out of bed," the amazon demanded.
"I-"
"Don't interrupt me! That was a rhetorical question."
"But-"
"No excuses! You haven't fully recovered. You've been asleep for three days, but you aren't completely healed yet."
"Wha-"
"And just what do you think you're doing, leaving your room without telling us? Another assassin could attack you!"
"Well I-"
"Look me in the eye when I'm scolding you!"
"But i jus-"
"And another thing-" This time Sora was cut off as Taichi placed two fingers upon her lips. She was too surprised to react.
"Shut up for a second and let me apologize," Tai smiled. He lifted his fingers from her lips. "I'm sorry. I just needed some time to myself, and I guess I acted without thinking."
Sora just smiled back. "Stupid Tai," she said affectionately. "What was it you wanted to tell me the other night?"
"This." With that, the brown-haired knight dipped his head down and gave Sora a soft kiss on the cheek, causing both of them to turn bright red. Tai was mentally kicking himself, as he had meant to kiss her on the lips. Why had he stopped at the last second and kissed only her cheek? Still, it was a start.
"Lord Taichi!" Cray's voice sounded throughout the gardens, causing Tai and Sora to groan in frustration at the strange deja vu.
Cray came running up and hugged Tai like a son. "Lord Taichi, you're alive! You had everyone scared to death!"
Tai tried to realease himself from his servant's suprisingly strong arms. "Cray, relax! I'm alright now. I'm going back to my chambers. Please have my mother sent to my room as soon as possible. I must speak with her." The young knight finally managed to free himself and sighed as he left without another word.
Sora watched him go, remembering the events from the battle the other night. She couldn't blame him for being upset, but he was being foolish to go wandering around after an attack was made on his life.
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Taichi was laying face up in his bed, his father's shield amulet clutched tightly in his one hand.
Lady Kamiya began speaking. "It began long ago when Odaiba was first made a kingdom by Jubei Yagami," she said. "One of Jubei's greatest friends was the prophet Gennai. Gennai said one day that there would be twenty-four, twelve humans and twelve digimon, who would be blessed upon birth as 'digi-destined.'
"Of course, no one knew what he meant at the time. Gennai said the digi-destined would find the lost city of Digita, birthplace of the first digimon. Legends have always spoken of Digita and the mysterious Legacy it contains, but no one ever found it. Some people even called Gennai a false prophet for speaking of such a 'faery tale.'
"But Jubei believed Gennai. In a hidden area of the palace, the two inscribed the prophecy in its entirety and hid it. The shield amulet that has been handed down through our family for generations is the key to unlocking the hidden chamber containing the prophecy."
Taichi looked to the metal amulet in his hand. It displayed the crest of Odaiba: a sun, crescent moon, and eight-point star in a triangular pattern underneath an arch which was inscribed with nine runes representing courage, love, friendship, sincerity, knowledge, reliability, kindness, hope, and light, in order. "Mother, I don't understand." Tai traced his finger along the amulet and looked back to his mother.
"Well," Lady Kamiya began. "Your father said that he had read the prophecy once himself, and he believes that you, Hikari, and the sons of Ishida are four of the digi-destined. He never explained it to me, but that is what he said."
Taichi lay in bed, speechless, trying to take all of this in.
"To see the prophecy," Lady Kamiya continued, "insert the amulet into the crest at the foot of Jubei Yagami's statue."
"I think I'll do just that."
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Taichi stood in front of the statue of his ancestor, Jubei. At the base of the statue was the kingdom's crest. He inserted his father's amulet upon it, and a click was heard. The young knight backed up as he heard a grinding noise. Soon, the statue shifted away, revealing a hidden staircase. Taichi gulped nervously and descended.
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Izzy and Yolie were in the palace library reading over their notes on digimon when Taichi came. "Izzy, Yolei. I need some help. Do you understand ancient runic Draconic?"
"Of course," Yolie replied.
"Good. come with me."
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It was a similar story with Yamato, Takeru, Hikari, Daisuke, Sora, Mimi, Jyou, Iori, and all the digimon. Taichi guided them all down the stairs underneath the statue into a large underground chamber. The room was lit by a strange phosphorescent moss, giving it a dream-like appearance. On the far wall was a giant inscription in ancient runes. "This is the prophecy I told you about on the way here. I only understood a handful of the runes, but I knew enough of them to get my suspicions up. When Izzy and Yolie translated for me, I knew just how my father felt."
"What do you mean Tai," Cody asked.
"Koushiro, please read the prophecy."
Izzy cleared his throat and began reading the runes which were arranged going top to bottom. "Twenty-four in all, twelve humans, twelve digimon; Shall find Digita, they'll be the ones." Izzy looked up. "Rather interesting how they made this so that when it is translated into the common dialect it forms a rhyme, but I digress."
"Go on," Taichi urged.
"First is the Bearer of Courage, the master of blades; A natural leader and lord of flames.
"The Bearer of Love, amazon of the winds; Will capture the leader's heart and show the fury of wind.
"The crest of Friendship shall belong to; The loreweaver who commands song and the icy blue.
"Sincerity is the virtue of the woodlands girl; Friendship is her mate, her ally the natural world.
"The Bearer of Knowledge is a genius young man; Quick-thinking and resourcfeul, he always has a plan.
"Reliability is the strength to a healer of men; He who never gives up, and always shall mend.
"The Bearer of Hope comes forth with spirit and blade; His will of steel shall not be unmade.
"Bearer of Light is always with Hope shining bright; She casts her magic where once there was plight."
Izzy paused at this time. "The rhyming could have been better, but I suppose it is difficult to try and write something in one laguage so that the translation in a particular language rhymes."
"Well, take a moment before you continue," Tai said. He turned to the others. "Does any of this sound familiar to any of you?"
There was a long silence. No one spoke up. They knew what the brown-haired knight was talking about, but they didn't dare say anything. It was just too outlandish to be real.
"This prophecy just described eight of us," Taichi finally said, getting annoyed by the silence. "'Master of blades.' I'm a master-at-arms. 'Amazon of the winds; capture the leader's heart.' If that doesn't describe Sora, please tell me what does." The brown-haired lord then turned pink slightly, realizing what he had just said. He looked over at Sora who was also blushing, though with a smile on her face and her thoughts running faster than lightning with joy.
"Tai, as much as I would love to have a little fun with what you just blurted out, I think you're right. This is serious." Matt folded his amrs over his chest and glanced at Mimi. He was turning her section of the prophecy over in his head 'Friendship is her mate,' he thought. 'I do feel rather attracted to her, but this is just a touch... confusing. And besides, that statement in the prophecy could mean any number of things. I'm not sure what is going on anymore.'
Mimi was trying hard not to look at Matt. She was having a similiar line of thought and didn't know what to think. 'Yamato really is a wonderful person, but am I really growing to like him like that? I wish I could be anywhere but here right now.'
"I guess you could describe me as reliable," Jyou said. He felt the tension growing in the air, and decided that if no one else was going to break the silence, he better do it. He was certainly reliable.
Everyone saw the irony of the situation and couldn't help but smile as things seemed less heavy on their shoulders.
"Finish reading the prophecy, please," Tai said.
This time, Miyako picked up where Koushiro left off. "A second generation will come to bear; The crests of all, three holding a pair.
"The warrior of Friendship and Courage stands tall; He has much bravado, but a good heart after all.
"Love and Sincerity to a girl who speaks with the sky; She never fears to spread her wings and speak her mind.
"Knowledge and Reliability belong to a small boy with a pure heart; He never disappoints and from his friends he will never part.
"The Bearer of Kindness will have a fall from grace; Living an outlaw, he handles the world at his own pace.
"With digimon to bind them as one, the world shall be spared; When darkness falls and all living things are scared.
"The digi-destined together they shall be; These twenty-four shall find Digita and its Legacy." Yolie turned to the others, knowing as well as they did the gravity of the situation.
Taichi folded his arms and looked around. "The prophecy continues to tell us where the crests of these virtues can be found. Unfortunately, Courage and Friendship are said to be in Florisenn'Dulhai."
Matt looked over at Tai. "Marvelous. This just keeps getting better and better," he said sarcastically.
"Isn't that an elven kingdom south of here," Cody asked. His normally quiet voice was maginified a little by the cave and everyone could hear him.
"Yes," Tai replied. "Ever since Odaiba was founded by Jubei Yagami, the elves and our people have shared a shaky alliance. Ever tried talking to an elf before?" The question was rhetorical so the young knight continued. "They're very arrogant, aloof, and regal. You really have to know what you're doing to talk to one."
"They're not an easy audience to please, either," Matt added.
"Well what are we waiting for," Davis practically shouted. "If we really are destined like the prophecy says, then let's go!"
"It's not that simple," Koushiro said. "We're missing one digi-destined: the Bearer of Kindness. And besides that, how can we be entirely sure we are the ones the prophecy describes. You have to admit, it is rather vague."
"Izzy has a point," Yolie said out loud. "Although it looks like we're the ones, we can't be entirely sure."
"Well," Sora started, "we may never know unless we try." She then smiled. "Besides, I'd like to meet some elves. I hear they have the finest bows in the world."
The digimon had all been quiet up to this point. They knew of the prophet Gennai and when they heard the word "Digita" they all fell silent.
"Are you alright," Tai questioned them.
"Sorry," Augumon said, snapping out of his trance. "But we all were staying silent to show respect to Digita."
"I understand," Mimi said, pulling Palmon into a hug. "You digimon must feel a certain reverance toward the lost city."
Gomamon nodded. "That's right. I think there's something to this prophecy and I want to go see if we really are the digimon who will rediscover Digita."
"It's a little hard to swallow," Armadillomon said, "but I'm willing to put all bets on it at the flip of a coin."
"Then it's settled," Tai said firmly. "In two days we leave for Florisenn'Dulhai."
*************************
As promised, the twenty-two humans and digimon left the palace two days later, set for a trip south the elven forests. The day they left was warm, but dark clouds were hovering in the sky and everyone drew their cloaks tight while Taichi and Yamato gave the crew a short lesson in the basics of the elven tongue and etiquette so they would know how to act when presenting themselves.
The first night passed without event and they marched on shortly before dawn. It was approaching nightfall when they stumbled upon a dark scene. Several covered wagons lay on the road over-turned and ruined. There were footprints everywhere, several arrows stcuk in the ground and trees, broken weapons, and a myriad of bones lay scattered about. Everyone stared in horror. "What happened here," Miyako asked. "Were the people in the convoy attacked by bandits? Or wolves?"
"No, not wolves," Mimi said. "A wolf wouldn't do something like this even with its pack. I fear it's something much more sinister."
Takeru walked up to the scene. He placed his boots within a set of tracks of similar size and began stepping through them, reenacting the movements of whoever made the prints. "There was a struggle here. They fought back, though unsuccessfully it would seem." He scanned the ground and each print. "There were five people... and four attackers. The attackers were bipedal, wore no footwear, and had claws on their hands and feet." TK then began reenacting the possible movements of the attackers, taking jerking, hapazard steps trying to follow the tracks. He surveyed the scene further. "These bones belong to humans, probably made by wolves who decided to capitalize on the travelers' misfortune. Unless..." He grabbed a handful of the sandy earth from one of the attacker's footprints and holding it in his fist, sniffed twice. He scowled and threw the soil to the ground.
Everyone stared at TK, waiting for his answer. They were not surprised by his skill, as they all knew he was one of the best trackers alive. The tension in the air was mounting. Everyone dreaded the grim look on the blonde lord's face, but also wanted to know what was going on.
"These poor souls. This attack was made not by a pack of wolves, but of ghouls," he said solemnly.
A collective gasp rose from everyone else. Of all of them, only Taichi, Augumon, and Patamon had ever seen and fought ghouls before besides Takeru. Everyone else had only heard how vile and evil the undead were.
"That's not the half of it," Takeru said grimly. "The attack was made this morning. Four ghouls of about the same size and weight as Tai, two of them armed. They're probably nearby."
"Then let's get out of here," Patamon squeaked. "I've fought ghouls before, and I have no desire to do it again any time soon."
No sooner had Patamon spoke, than the four hideous ghouls leaped forward from the underbrush, apparently lying in wait for more victims. They were terrible to behold. Thin and gaunt, looking emaciated with skin stretched tight over their bones and the same disgusting purple color as a severe bruise. Their eyes were black, but full of feral cunning nad hunger. They wore only tattered clothes and no footwear showing the gnarled talons on their feet that matched the ones at the ends of their fingers. One of them had a few patches of dirty white hair on his scalp while the others were bald. They had long sharp teeth and snakelike black tongues that kept flopping and slithering around outside of their gaping mouths. Two of the ghouls held a rusty dagger each.
Taichi was the first to react, drawing his longsword and lopping off the armed hand of the hgoul closest to him with a quick upward slash, causing the undead to howl in pain.
Gatomon lunged forward at another. "Lightning Claw," she shouted launching her attack. The swipe of her claws sent the ghoul flying back into a tree with a sickening crack as its spine broke. The creature fell to the ground bent in an unnatural angle, dead.
Sora took the handaxe Tai had given her that morning, took aim, and let it fly at the second armed ghoul. The blade spun rapidly through the air before landing in the creature's face with a sickening thud. The ghoul didn't even have time to cry out before it died. Dark blood began flowing from the undead's split face before it could even hit the ground.
Biyomon was about to go over and help Tai defeat his adversary, when her legs were grabbed from behind by the fourth ghoul. She felt its talons sinking into her wing as he tried to fly away. The bird digimon cried out in pain and fell to the ground.
With a quick lash of another axe, Sora beheaded the one-handed undead she and Tai were fighting and turned to see biyomon in trouble. "Oh no! Biyomon!"
Everyone turned to face the scene just as the ghoul's chest erupted forward in a spray of dark, rotting gore. As the monster fell dead, everyone was shocked to see Augumon standing there behind its body with his claws still extended forawrd and soaked in blood. "No one hurts my friends," the digimon said dangerously.
Taichi was the least surprised, but still stunned. Augumon rarely showed his violent side unless he had digivolved to Greymon. But there the little lizard digimon was, glaring at the ghoul's corpse, wiping the creatures rotting flesh from his claws. And as quickly as Augumon's violence appeared, it faded as he gently helped Biyomon up, looking sadly at her injured wing.
Sora rushed up and looked at her digimon partner's wounds. "Oh, Biyomon are you alright?"
"Yes, Sora," Biyomon said. "I'm alright now. Thank you, Augumon."
Augumon simply smiled as only he could. "You would have done the same for me."
"Hey," Takeru called out. "We better get moving. Where you find a pack of ghouls, there's bound to be more undead lurking around. Getting killed isn't a very big priority on my list of things to do."
"My sentiments exactly," Miyako said.
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Two days later, the group arrived in a grand forest of silver trees with lush golden leaves. They had reached the forest of Dulhai, home of the high elves. The sun refelcted off the silver and gold trees with aching beauty while the underbrush glittered like emeralds. According to the elven legends, this forest was created millennia ago by the gods. They created Dulhai from the purest gold, gems, and the beaitful elven silver called mithril. It was easy to believe. The forest itself possessed not just this dazzling beauty, but a sense of life radiating from it. As the humans and digimon stepped into the forest, it was like bathing in joy and life, like a warm blanket had been wrapped around them and touched their very souls with the wonders this ancient forest held. A small breeze rustled through the treetops, creating a pleasant sound as the leaves shuffled and danced on the wind and the many tiny birds took flight. The immersion in natural beauty was intoxicating, especially for Mimi, Palmon, and Takeru, who all seemed to be off in a dream world.
Suddenly, a tall figure appeared dressed in pastel blues with a flowing deep purple cape, seemingly from nowhere. He had long silver hair like the trees and skin pale as the moon. Long, delicately pointed ears poked out from his hair and his amber eyes seemed to be smiling just as his lips were. There was no mistaking who this individual was. Only one race of people were so fair and graceful. He was a high elf of Florisenn'Dulhai, the long-lived people of the forests. "Welcome, travellers," he said. However, only Taichi and Yamato understood him, as they were the only ones in the party who understood the complex and melodic elven laguage.
"We are from Odaiba. I am Lord Taichi Kamiya, but introuctions must wait," Tai said in fluent Elven. "We have come to see the King Luusullis. Can you take us to the palace?"
The silver-haired elf bowed deeply. "Certainly," he said, this time in common speak which everyone could understand. "I am one of the royal scouts. You may call me Amrufel. Please, follow me." The elf turned and began striding through the woods so quickly, it took everyone an extra effort to keep up. They were all amazed with the other-wordly balance and grace the elf possessed, as one must see these qualities which all elves are born with before you can believe them.
In a little longer than two hours, they finally reached a grand city built in the trees. Platforms high in the mithril and gold trees stretched wide with bridges and walkways connecting them. The buildings atop were crafted entirely of wood with very little stone. Dozens of elves walked through the raised city, engaging in their daily business. Had it been any other day, many more of the fair folk would be seen, but today was the day each week when elves left their jobs early to stay home with their families. Amrufel led them to a large platform at the base of the nearest tree. He sounded a small gong on one end of the platform and it lifted them all up into the city. "Come," their guide said as htey walked into the city. "The palace isn't far."
Amrufel was right, since a grand palace of mithril, marble, and the silver wood of the trees came before them after a short walk. They went past the guards into a grand hall with stone-tiled floors white as snow with many beautiful tapestries hanging on the wall depicting scenes from elven lore. "Stay here in the entrace hall until the guards call you into the throne room to meet with his majesty Luusullis." With that, the silver-haired elf left, his purple cape streaming out behind him.
Yolei giggled as she watched the retreating elf and turned to Kari. "I see those stories about elves being so handsome are true."
Kari giggled in return and glanced over at TK who gave her a playful look of mock jealousy.
It wasn't much longer before an elven guard, taller than Amrufel, at least six and one-half feet, with chain armor and a sword came walking in. Like all elves, he grew his hair very long, but kept it tied back in a ponytail to make fighting easier. "The King will see you now," he said in Elven. He turned, gesturing for them to follow him and walked down the halls to a pair of enromous red double doors. Two other guards stationed there opened the doors to reveal a grand white room full of fountains, statuary, paintings, tapestries, and potted plants. At the other end of the room sat King Luusullis. He was about the same height as Taichi clad in royal purple robes. He had golden hair grown down to his ankles and braided with silver ribbons. He had sky blue eyes and fair skin, and like most elves he looked perpetually youthful, though the length of his pointed ears indicated that he was coming to the final centuries of his life span, for elves live over a millennia and never show any physical aging. The only way to guess an elf's age without asking is to check the length of hteir ears. The longer, the older they are.
Taichi, Yamato, Augumon, and Gabumon walked into the hall first. Tai had told the others to proceed when he called them forward for introductions. "Your majesty," the two humans and two digimon said, down on one knee. They said the words slowly, drawing out the syllables as was proper when standing before elven royalty.
Luusulis rose from his throne, gestured for them to do the same, and walked to the four in front of him. He embraced them all in a single hug as if they were family "Welcome my friends," he said warmly in common speak. "Lord Taichi and Yamato. I haven't seen you two since Lady Hikari and Lord Takeru were born. My you two certainly have grown quickly. And of course Augumon nad Gabumon. Last I saw you two, you had only just matured to your present forms."
"King Luusulis," Tai began, "I would like to introduce you to friends and family. You know my sister, the Lady Hikari with her bonded digimon Gatomon."
"And my brother," Matt continued, "Lord Takeru with Patamon."
The four stepped forward towards the elf king, kneeling down and greeting him as their older brothers and their digimon did.
"Oh you can dispense with the formalities around me," Luusulis chuckled. "The royal houses of Odaiba and any of their friends will always be welcomed in the court of Florisenn'Dulhai as long as I rule." He bid everyone to rise and embraced the four younger siblings and digimon. "I haven't seen you four since you were but babes in your respective mothers' arms." He pulled away a little and looked them over. "Yes. Takeru, you are becoming a fine young man like your brother. Is it true that you are betrothed to Hikari?"
Takeru nodded with a faint blush, hoping that his silence would not be taken as an insult.
However, the elf king simply turned to Hikari and smiled. "You are quite a lucky man. It is very rare that a human woman is born so clsoe to elven fairness. And if half the sotries I have heard are true, then she is every bit as compassionate and kind as she is lovely."
Hikari smiled and looked away as her face turned the same shade of red as her robes. "Thank you, your majesty."
Luussulis then knelt down and stroked one hand over Patamon's back and scratched Gatomon behind her ears. "I never got a chance to know you two. A digimon is always welcome in the royal court and I hope during your visit I can get better aquainted with you."
The two digimon smiled as they looked up at the king. "We would be honored, sir," Patamon squeaked.
"Your majesty," Yamato said. "Taichi and I have several more people and digimon to introduce to you."
They next brought in Sora, Biyomon, Mimi, and Palmon. The girls were complimented similarly to Hikari and their digimon were also treated like old firends instead of new aquaintances. Then came Daisuke, Jyou, Iori, and their respective digimon partners who were given warm greetings. Luusulis embraced them all one by one like family. "So," the elf king said, "what is the nature of your visit?"
Tai stepped forward. "We have recently read an ancient prophecy by the old soothsayer known as Gennai concerning the fabled city of Digita."
Luusulis raised his hand. "Say no more. I know now of why you are here. We will discuss it over a banquet tonight. In the meantime, you look a bit scuffled so let's get you cleaned up."
No one had time to ask what Luusulis meant or how he knew of the prophecy before two dozen elven servants came in and guided the humans and digimon to changing rooms in the east wing of the palace.
End of Chapter 5
In Legacy of Digita Chapter 6- First Crests Discovered, Taichi goes off with Yamato and Daisuke to find the crests of Courage and Friendship hidden within the forests of Dulhai. Will they find them, or will they get more than they bargained for? And are the assassins ready for another round at Taichi's life? The only way to find out is to keep reading.