Heya! Okayz, um, this chapter is kinda boring, y'all could say... It's mostly about how what Aquarius did *didn't* just change Ken's life for the worst... And Aquarius *is* going to enter the story again, it isn't just sitting on it's hands up there, but it just doesn't fit in this part...
Anyways, don't worry, this story *is* going somewhere... (no matter how slowly...)
gasps Aiee! Thanks EVERYONE for reviewing! I never thought ppl would review my stories (and positively, too) 'cause I kinda suck at writing... ~Domo arigatou!~ Keep at it, please!
~And to the ppl who think this is confusing (My fault! Sorry!), yeah, Ken is just innocent old Ken, whom I luv... *huggles Ken* and Sam (aka Osamu) is the evil dude. cackles And I *like* making Daisuke look like an idiot... sorry to all Dai-luvers out there, but personally, I can't stand him... Ducks from tomatoes and other such rotten fruit being thrown at her
The first two parts were REALLLLLLYYYYYYYY short! Gomen, gomen! I haven't had time lately, but the next few parts *should* be longer... not making any promises, though.
Read! Review! Or else... Please no flaming, pyro! *sniff* I'm afraid of fire... hides in corner Uhm, yeah....
Digimon. Is. Not. Mine. ~ Story. Is. Mine.
AND... (sorry, I'm just very chatty today) in case anyone is insulted by cursing, there ARE some minor curse words in this story, along with violence and some serious themes, like alcoholism and abuse. You might have already noticed, but I can be vewwwy evil to the characters I like... notices TK and Ken glaring at her... Taichi and Matt just look very nervous... Whaaaat?
Also, in this it says TK is in 8th grade... In my little insane fic, Osamu is lots stronger than Ken would've been, so the battle is still raging on, when it would have already been finished in the other time line.
Oh yeah, I forgot to say this in the chapter before, Runs from screaming, impatient people who want her to shut up but when text has ~*~ around it, it means a flashback...
Example:
~*~
"Does the name... Ichijouji mean anything to you?"
~*~
That points upwards would be a flashback. Just in case any of y'all were confused by that in the last chapter... It *would* be in italics, but I suck at HTML, so anywayz... On with the story!
Turn Back Time
Chapter Two
Takeru looked skeptically at Daisuke, raising a golden eyebrow. "Are you sure - I mean, *absolutely* positive - that this'll work, Dai? If it doesn't, we could be arrested and charged with harassment or something like that..."
Daisuke grinned confidently, adjusting the goggles atop his bushy brown nest of hair. "Duh, Takeru. 'Course it'll work... I mean, I'm the one who came up with it, right?" He was perched on a desk in the Odaiba Middle School's computer lab, dangerously close to knocking over a computer.
Miyako groaned, polishing her large round glasses furiously and squinting at Daisuke through her hazel eyes. "You say that every time, Dai, and *every* time the Kaiser manages to kick our sorry butts. Why should we believe you?"
The boy scowled darkly at the lavender-haired girl. "'Cause I'm right," he said obstinately. Hikari shook her head worriedly, doubt prevalent in her light brown eyes. Daisuke threw her a winning smile. "Don't worry, 'Kari. I'll protect you."
Takeru gagged, a smirk dancing across his face, while Hikari simply looked like throwing up. Iori stood stolidly, not quite grasping the humor, his serious gaze including the entire group. "It sounds rather... deficient, doesn't it?" he asked. "It lacks detail."
"What do you mean?" cried Daisuke indignantly. "It has plenty of detail! We ambush Ken, drag him through the computer... and, um, figure it out from there!"
Miyako hit herself on the forehead. "Do you have *any* idea what detail means, Dai? As in, *where* do we ambush him? How? And, for that matter, how do we get him into the Digital World? How do we know he won't just capture us using one of his inventions, since he's obviously stronger there?"
"Miya, we'll figure it out! You'll see." Daisuke glared angrily at her, upset at her questioning his theory. "Although... hm, we might have to consider your points..."
"Baka," she muttered under her breath, as Iori chuckled behind her.
Takeru looked thoughtful. "Well, I have a suggestion to the ambush part," he offered. "We could send him an anonymous note telling him to come up to the computer lab, and when he came up, we'd have a digi-port open."
"He won't know his way around," Hikari objected. "He goes to Tamachi, remember?"
"Oh, but I remember Kou telling me about one time when he came here for a chess tournament. I think he was actually playing in here, or something like that," Iori countered, referring to Koushiro, one of the original Chosen.
"Good," muttered Daisuke, his eyes glinting. He rubbed his hands together in anticipation, a satanical grin spreading across his tanned face.
"Don't mention him being the Kaiser, though," cautioned Miyako, "or else he might not come. Just say something like, 'Ken, I'd love to meet you. I idolize you. Meet me in the computer lab of Odaiba Middle School... um, Monday the 4th at 3:45." She shrugged, noticing that Daisuke looked sick at the prospect of complimenting the Kaiser. "You know, butter him up. His ego is seriously larger than Tokyo... Not quite as big as yours, though, Dai." She smirked.
"Hey!" Daisuke burst out, his expression outraged. "It's not *my* fault I'm amazing!" Takeru and Iori looked close to laughter, while the two girls simply rolled their eyes.
Takeru suddenly looked worriedly at his watch, his azure eyes widening. "I... gotta get home, you guys... Um, I'll see ya. Call me when you figure this all out, okay?"
Daisuke nodded absently, not quite paying attention. Takeru slipped out of the door, heading swiftly towards the exit of the school, listening to the argument as it faded from his hearing.
Takeru's POV
I looked at my watch, a sixth sense telling me the time was going by dangerously fast... and it was right. Damn! I sprinted down the street, heedless of obstacles as people jumped out of my way. My dad was going to be more than pissed off. I slowed down as I neared my apartment, becoming more wary. I opened the door silently, wincing as it screeched on rusty hinges. "Please, please, please," I whispered silently, my stomach churning, willing him not to be home. Shutting the door as quietly as I could behind me, I tiptoed into the hall, peering into the kitchen. Nobody there. I let out a sigh of relief.
I saw a blonde nest of hair poking over the back of the couch, and walked over to where my older brother, Yamato, lay on the couch. He looked up at me with empty blue eyes. "Hey, TK," he whispered, using his childhood nickname for me. I perched on the arm of the couch.
"Yama, is he home yet?" I queried. Yama shook his head, but pointed at the clock.
"No, ototo-san, but he will be soon. You'd better get to your room."
I nodded in assent, but before leaving, I asked another question. "Did Mom call?" Hoping against hope, I anxiously waited for the answer as a sadistic smile played with my brother's feeble lips.
"TK... you know she won't call. She doesn't care about us." His blue eyes clouded with well-hidden pain. I sighed.
"She *does* care, though, onii-san. I *know* it!" I had reiterated that claim time and time again, because we talked about this subject often.
"Yeah?" countered Yama bitterly. "Then why'd she up and leave us here with... *him*?"
Lost for words, I glared at my brother, stood, and walked into the kitchen. Suddenly, I heard the front door slam and a person stumble inside. I froze. Yama's head jerked up above the couch. "Get to your room!" he hissed. "Don't get in his way!"
I tried, I swear I did, but fear, at least, fear of him, always seems to petrify me. I stood fixed to the spot as my father staggered into the kitchen, the strong smell of liquor on his breath. I fingered a still-tender bruise on my cheek apprehensively as he approached unsteadily, and retreated until my back hit the counter.
He raised a burly fist, and I instinctively winced in anticipation. It slammed solidly into my stomach as I doubled over in pain. He balled his other hand and smashed it into my shoulder, flinging me backwards against the counter. Gasping for breath, I saw Yama out of the corner of my eye shrinking back down onto the couch. A hand slapped twice across my face and I reeled away, stumbling over a chair in my haste to escape. He grabbed my arm and yanked me to my feet, then threw me into the wall. My senses swam as I kneeled groggily on the ground, darkness closing in on my line of vision.
My father approached me again, and I flinched, but surprisingly, he blundered past me and rummaged in the refrigerator, pulling out a bottle of beer. I let down my guard and felt my energy trickle away, collapsing in a heap. Shadows overtook my mind, and the darkness was merciful.
----
"TK!" a voice hissed, penetrating my subconscious. My vision swam as I opened my eyes, just barely making out my brother's face.
"Yama?" I asked weakly, feeling all my aches rushing back. I moaned, trying to push myself into a sitting position. Yama helped, propping me against the wall. "Is he...?" I left the question hanging.
"Yeah, he's still here, but he collapsed over there. He's gonna have one helluva hangover tomorrow morning, so try and stay out of his way," Yama informed me. "And *you*, TK," he continued, "have a couple of very pretty bruises. I don't think anything's broken this time, though."
I grimaced, attempting to stand. "Yeah, well, that's just great." My head swam, and I dizzily clutched at my brother until everything cleared.
"I'll help you to your room," he offered, gently supporting me. I limped into my bedroom, collapsing tiredly on the bed. "You were only out for about an hour, ototo-san. It's only around 6:30."
I sat bolt upright, gasping in pain. "Oh, my God! I have a basketball game at 7:30! The coach won't be happy if I miss another one, and if he's not happy, he'll call Dad, and..."
"Shh!" Yama interrupted my fearful ramblings. "What time do you have to be there to warm up?"
"Half an hour ago," I groaned. "Can you drive me there?"
"Sure, but..." He glanced at me, concerned. "Are you in the condition to play?"
"No," I said bluntly. "But, it doesn't really matter, does it? If I miss, the coach will be pissed, and then Dad will be pissed, and after that I'll prob'ly never play in another game again." Yama nodded understandingly and helped me to stand. I rummaged through my closet, throwing on my uniform, as Yama grabbed his keys. We rushed out of the apartment, scurrying into the elevator to the parking lot, where we jumped into the car.
"Dad'll be really mad when he finds out I'm gone..." I said haltingly, glancing nervously back at the receding building.
"Don't worry," Yama assured me, concentrating on the road. "I'll tell him you're in your room. You know he never touches me, for some reason, so..."
I felt slightly jealous of my brother, but also grateful. "Thanks, Yama."
We screeched to a halt in front of the school, where the lights were already bathing the pavement with a warm glow, and I glanced at Yama, indicating my bruises. "What should I tell 'em this time? I got in another fight?"
Yama considered this. "Say you fell down the stairs and kinda blacked out, and that's why you're late." He smiled encouragingly. "Wish I could stay, ototo-san, but I have to get back in case he wakes up. Can you hitch a ride home?"
"Either that, or walk." I waved, grabbing my gym bag from the trunk. "See ya!" I watched as the car sped away into the darkness. Taking a deep breath, I walked into the gym.
"Takeru! Where were you?" the coach bellowed, approaching me angrily. Suddenly, he stopped, and squinted at me. "And what the hell happened? Get in *another* fight? What's this, the seventh?"
I glanced down, and saw that the bruises were even more obvious in the loose fitting uniform. I hoped fervently that no one could see the ugly scars that decorated my back from my father's belt. I always put on an undershirt to avoid that happening, but I could never tell what anyone saw.
"Um... Hi, coach," I said weakly. He scowled darkly, but there was sympathy prevalent in his eyes. "I, um... fell down the... stairs and kind of blacked out.
"Oh," he said sarcastically, "and this would be only the *sixth* time you've done *that*. Takeru, what is really up? I should call your father, and..."
He never finished, because a panicked look flitted across my face, and I began to plead with him. "No, please, sir, I won't be late again, I promise!" I prayed he would take my excuse with no further questions.
Coach's POV
"No, please, sir, I won't be late again, I promise!" Takeru implored, almost pathetically. I saw fear obvious in his expression at the very mention of his father, and wondered, for the thousandth time, what was wrong with this kid. An incredible basketball player... good enough to be on the high school varsity, and only in 8th grade. He had already been boosted to the high school freshman team, which was the highest level a middle-schooler could get to. However, he was habitually late to games and practices, which infuriated me, naturally. He was also covered in bruises and scars, and looked almost malnourished.
"All right, Ishida, get to the court and warm up.," I growled. Takeru shot me a thankful glance and ran off to grab his basketball.
I told myself that if his father showed up to the game, I would ask what kinds of kids Takeru got into fights with. 'Fat chance of that,' I thought. Takeru's father never came to games or practices. Takeru always seemed grateful of that, and besides, all the girls in both high school and middle school came to cheer him on. I allowed myself a humored grin as I made my way to the center court. Already a girl magnet, and he didn't even realise it.
I blew a short blast on my whistle and waited as the boys gathered around me. "All right, guys," I said encouragingly, "this is it. Districts playoffs. I'm surprised we made it this far, and proud of you, too. Run five laps for warm up, then stretch. Go!" I barked, watching as they jogged off.
Yamato's POV
Damn! I hit the steering wheel angrily. I am such a coward. I never even stand up to my father for TK because I'm just too afraid. Dad never even touched me before; for some reason... he centers everything on TK. He brags to his friends about his wonderful sons, TK on honor roll and a star basketball player, me a singer, but at home he either completely ignores us or beats the crap out of TK.
Pulling into the parking garage below our building, I nervously got out of the car. I slammed the door and made my way to the elevator door in the dim light. When I got to my apartment, I entered cautiously, praying Dad wasn't awake yet.
"Yes!" I whispered quietly in triumph, seeing him still slumped in a chair. I made my way to my niche on the couch, anxiously awaiting either TK's return or my father's waking up... God forbid if they happen at the same time.
Suddenly, the phone rang out shrilly. Panicked, I ran for it, grabbing it hastily and snapping into the receiver as Dad stirred slightly. "What?!" Dad mumbled and rolled over again. I let out a sigh of relief.
On the other line, Daisuke's voice was tinny and tinged with annoyance. "Hey, dude, having a bad hair day or something? Jeez."
"Sorry," I said apologetically. "Anyways, what do you want?"
"Is Takeru there?" he asked.
"No," I replied, running a hand through my bushy blonde hair, aggravated. "He's at the basketball game, remember? You can find him there."
"Oh, okay... Hey, Yamato, we might need you, too. Any chance you can get out of the house? We're calling all of the other digidestined... we need all the reinforcements we can get. We came up with a plan to capture the Kaiser!"
"Really?" Despite my promise to TK to stay in the house, my curiosity was aroused. "You bet! Where do we meet?"
"I guess since TK's at the high school, we'll meet there. After the game, we'll all conference. I'll tell you what we're going to do."
"Okay," I agreed, and hung up the phone. Abruptly, a wave of apprehension washed over me. What if Dad woke up? I swiftly wrote a note, leaving it next to his half empty beer can and limp hand. Running out the door, I cast one last glance back at him. He looked like he would be unconscious for at least a few more hours... I could safely leave.
Taichi's POV
I stood in the crowded auditorium, glaring angrily at the score clock. There were still ten minutes left in the second half, and personally, I was burning with curiosity about what Daisuke had to say. I tapped my foot impatiently, watching Takeru weave in and out of opposing players to score yet another basket as the wild crowds cheered incessantly. He glanced up at all of us Digidestined standing by the door, and flashed us a quick grin before running to guard another player. The cheerleaders jumped up and down energetically as I stared restlessly at the close game.
Takeru's team was up by eighteen points, but that was mostly thanks to Takeru's phenomenal playing. If he was taken out - and I'd noticed the playing getting more and more aggressive - the other team would probably easily tie the game, sending it into overtime.
"Go, Takeru!" screamed my little sister, Hikari, who was jumping up and down excitedly next to me. Easy for her. She already *knew* about the plan. Yamato, Sora, Koushiro, Jyou, and I exchanged annoyed looks, all glaring pointedly at the clock, which was moving agonizingly slowly. Mimi Tachikawa, the last of the original Digidestined, was still in America, and so couldn't come. However, Daisuke had told me that he'd already e-mailed her and filled her in on what we were doing. So, basically, us five were the only ones who didn't know... well, us and Takeru, but he didn't have to wait for it like us, because he was playing the game.
Now it was seconds that were left... 30... 29... Suddenly, a large, bulky player ran heedlessly into Takeru, slamming him into the padded gym wall. Both sides of the crowds were immediately booing his unsportsmanlike behavior, as Takeru collapsed, dazed, on the ground. Beside me, Hikari and Yamato winced, as the rest of us cried out derogatory terms for the huge ugly boy. The referee blew a sharp blast on his whistle, and took the large boy out of the game to his bench, where he was scolded sternly by his coach.
On the court, Takeru stood slowly, amid wild cheers from our side. He took two technical foul shots, which he made easily, and the rest of the game passed uneventfully. As the final buzzer sounded, Takeru slipped out of the crowds that were flooding onto the court, and jogged up to us. He was breathing heavily, his shirt, hair, and skin all soaked with sweat. His pale skin was accented with many bruises, and I winced. All that from being slammed into the wall?
"I have to go to the locker room for the post-game talk, and take a quick shower, but I'll be right up after that, 'kay?" Daisuke nodded, and Takeru turned and sprinted down to the court, where he was encircled by screaming fans and teammates.
I looked pleadingly at Daisuke, who grinned maliciously. "No, Taichi, you have to wait until Takeru gets back."
"Argh!" I screamed, slamming my hand into the metal railing. *Not* a good idea. "Itai!" I yelled, dancing around and clutching my injured hand. Hikari giggled behind me, and I shot her a dark look. "Would *you* like to try that, dear sister?" I asked menacingly.
"No, Tai," she countered, "I wouldn't be so stupid, baka!" Since when did my sister get so annoying? I grimaced and massaged my hand, scanning the court eagerly for Takeru's return.
Some twenty minutes later, after the crowds had thinned, Takeru sauntered casually out of the locker room, placing his trademark white bucket hat on his damp hair. "What's up, Dai?"
Daisuke grinned. "We figured out just how we're going to capture the Kaiser!"
I leaned in anticipation, although I was almost expecting another of Dai's half-witted schemes. But, if Iori helped... I cast a glance at the thoughtful eleven-year-old, who was smiling smugly. Yep, Iori helped. Hey, maybe the plan would be good after all...
"Here's what we do..."
Ken's POV - The Next Day
I limped in the front door, humming slightly. It had been a good day - I got an 'A' on my test, something I usually don't get. Osamu wouldn't be happy. I frowned slightly. He'd say I was taking glory from him again. Geez, why can't the guy ever accept that I, to put it in nice terms, kick his butt in sports? Plus, he should be pleased for my accomplishments, and it's not like I ever get anything more than a 'B' usually. It's him that's the genius... I mean, he can be such a jerk... But then again, I've never understood him.
I slid off my shoes, wincing - my ankle was still hurting me, although the doctor had said I didn't need crutches. It was just a minor sprain, and I was wearing a brace until it healed. As I set my shoes to the side of the hallway, I noticed a small piece of paper that had evidently been shoved in through the mail chute. I picked it up, and read it, my eyes widening as I saw the message that had been printed there:
Ken -
I have something for you... I'm sorry for being such a bad sport the other day in the game. I hope you'll forgive me. I want to make it up to you. Meet me in the computer lab of Odaiba Middle School today (the 5th) at 4:30.
-Daisuke
I furrowed my brow. Daisuke... so that was his name? I glanced at my watch, noting that I didn't have that much time to get there. Luckily, I had been to the school before in a chess competition (which I'd lost miserably, but I won't get into that), and knew my way around. Scribbling a quick note to my parents that I would be back soon, and shoving my shoes back on, I limped out the door, ignoring a sixth sense that told me not to go, wondering just what this Daisuke had in store for me.
-------
Japanese Dictionary
- ototo-san = younger brother
- onii-san = older brother
- itai = ouch
- baka = idiot
- domo arigatou = thanks a lot/ much thanks
I think this is all the Japanese I used in this part... if it isn't and anyone has questions, just put it in a review or something. I'm prob'ly gonna get e-mail soon (as in, an e-mail other than my dad's, who would be very freaked out if he found Digimon e-mails in his mailbox... *grins*), and when I do, I'll post my e-mail so y'all can ask me questions. :) Now, onto the end-of-story, neverending author's note!
*sobs* I'm sorry Takeru! I just had to make it so it was vewwwy obvious that Aquarius (that bad, bad, superior being) reallly screwed up people's lives, even people's other than Ken. And I'll explain, or, rather, Aquarius will explain, why everything happened like it did. That won't be for a while, tho'... *cackles* Cliffhangers are so fun!
By the way, don't say I'm sick or twisted, 'cos I'm not. Abuse is a serious subject that shouldn't be taken lightly. I wouldn't have put it in my fic at all, except that it fit in so well with the plot and is really as a sub-theme (as in a problem that the one of the kids is facing OTHER than the oh-so-obvious one of the Kaiser - there are a couple, actually, I think... although it's not *completely* developed yet.).
*screams* Stupid spellchecker! This thing just has *so* much fun with this story... hits computer Ah... anyway...
See that box down there? Yep, the one that says 'Be a responsible reader and review.' Um, listen to the dear little thingy, and review please! Tell me if ya like it, tell me if ya hate it, um... tell me if you're somewhere in between... Thank ya! *grins* Next part should be out soon! :)
Anyways, don't worry, this story *is* going somewhere... (no matter how slowly...)
gasps Aiee! Thanks EVERYONE for reviewing! I never thought ppl would review my stories (and positively, too) 'cause I kinda suck at writing... ~Domo arigatou!~ Keep at it, please!
~And to the ppl who think this is confusing (My fault! Sorry!), yeah, Ken is just innocent old Ken, whom I luv... *huggles Ken* and Sam (aka Osamu) is the evil dude. cackles And I *like* making Daisuke look like an idiot... sorry to all Dai-luvers out there, but personally, I can't stand him... Ducks from tomatoes and other such rotten fruit being thrown at her
The first two parts were REALLLLLLYYYYYYYY short! Gomen, gomen! I haven't had time lately, but the next few parts *should* be longer... not making any promises, though.
Read! Review! Or else... Please no flaming, pyro! *sniff* I'm afraid of fire... hides in corner Uhm, yeah....
Digimon. Is. Not. Mine. ~ Story. Is. Mine.
AND... (sorry, I'm just very chatty today) in case anyone is insulted by cursing, there ARE some minor curse words in this story, along with violence and some serious themes, like alcoholism and abuse. You might have already noticed, but I can be vewwwy evil to the characters I like... notices TK and Ken glaring at her... Taichi and Matt just look very nervous... Whaaaat?
Also, in this it says TK is in 8th grade... In my little insane fic, Osamu is lots stronger than Ken would've been, so the battle is still raging on, when it would have already been finished in the other time line.
Oh yeah, I forgot to say this in the chapter before, Runs from screaming, impatient people who want her to shut up but when text has ~*~ around it, it means a flashback...
Example:
~*~
"Does the name... Ichijouji mean anything to you?"
~*~
That points upwards would be a flashback. Just in case any of y'all were confused by that in the last chapter... It *would* be in italics, but I suck at HTML, so anywayz... On with the story!
Turn Back Time
Chapter Two
Takeru looked skeptically at Daisuke, raising a golden eyebrow. "Are you sure - I mean, *absolutely* positive - that this'll work, Dai? If it doesn't, we could be arrested and charged with harassment or something like that..."
Daisuke grinned confidently, adjusting the goggles atop his bushy brown nest of hair. "Duh, Takeru. 'Course it'll work... I mean, I'm the one who came up with it, right?" He was perched on a desk in the Odaiba Middle School's computer lab, dangerously close to knocking over a computer.
Miyako groaned, polishing her large round glasses furiously and squinting at Daisuke through her hazel eyes. "You say that every time, Dai, and *every* time the Kaiser manages to kick our sorry butts. Why should we believe you?"
The boy scowled darkly at the lavender-haired girl. "'Cause I'm right," he said obstinately. Hikari shook her head worriedly, doubt prevalent in her light brown eyes. Daisuke threw her a winning smile. "Don't worry, 'Kari. I'll protect you."
Takeru gagged, a smirk dancing across his face, while Hikari simply looked like throwing up. Iori stood stolidly, not quite grasping the humor, his serious gaze including the entire group. "It sounds rather... deficient, doesn't it?" he asked. "It lacks detail."
"What do you mean?" cried Daisuke indignantly. "It has plenty of detail! We ambush Ken, drag him through the computer... and, um, figure it out from there!"
Miyako hit herself on the forehead. "Do you have *any* idea what detail means, Dai? As in, *where* do we ambush him? How? And, for that matter, how do we get him into the Digital World? How do we know he won't just capture us using one of his inventions, since he's obviously stronger there?"
"Miya, we'll figure it out! You'll see." Daisuke glared angrily at her, upset at her questioning his theory. "Although... hm, we might have to consider your points..."
"Baka," she muttered under her breath, as Iori chuckled behind her.
Takeru looked thoughtful. "Well, I have a suggestion to the ambush part," he offered. "We could send him an anonymous note telling him to come up to the computer lab, and when he came up, we'd have a digi-port open."
"He won't know his way around," Hikari objected. "He goes to Tamachi, remember?"
"Oh, but I remember Kou telling me about one time when he came here for a chess tournament. I think he was actually playing in here, or something like that," Iori countered, referring to Koushiro, one of the original Chosen.
"Good," muttered Daisuke, his eyes glinting. He rubbed his hands together in anticipation, a satanical grin spreading across his tanned face.
"Don't mention him being the Kaiser, though," cautioned Miyako, "or else he might not come. Just say something like, 'Ken, I'd love to meet you. I idolize you. Meet me in the computer lab of Odaiba Middle School... um, Monday the 4th at 3:45." She shrugged, noticing that Daisuke looked sick at the prospect of complimenting the Kaiser. "You know, butter him up. His ego is seriously larger than Tokyo... Not quite as big as yours, though, Dai." She smirked.
"Hey!" Daisuke burst out, his expression outraged. "It's not *my* fault I'm amazing!" Takeru and Iori looked close to laughter, while the two girls simply rolled their eyes.
Takeru suddenly looked worriedly at his watch, his azure eyes widening. "I... gotta get home, you guys... Um, I'll see ya. Call me when you figure this all out, okay?"
Daisuke nodded absently, not quite paying attention. Takeru slipped out of the door, heading swiftly towards the exit of the school, listening to the argument as it faded from his hearing.
Takeru's POV
I looked at my watch, a sixth sense telling me the time was going by dangerously fast... and it was right. Damn! I sprinted down the street, heedless of obstacles as people jumped out of my way. My dad was going to be more than pissed off. I slowed down as I neared my apartment, becoming more wary. I opened the door silently, wincing as it screeched on rusty hinges. "Please, please, please," I whispered silently, my stomach churning, willing him not to be home. Shutting the door as quietly as I could behind me, I tiptoed into the hall, peering into the kitchen. Nobody there. I let out a sigh of relief.
I saw a blonde nest of hair poking over the back of the couch, and walked over to where my older brother, Yamato, lay on the couch. He looked up at me with empty blue eyes. "Hey, TK," he whispered, using his childhood nickname for me. I perched on the arm of the couch.
"Yama, is he home yet?" I queried. Yama shook his head, but pointed at the clock.
"No, ototo-san, but he will be soon. You'd better get to your room."
I nodded in assent, but before leaving, I asked another question. "Did Mom call?" Hoping against hope, I anxiously waited for the answer as a sadistic smile played with my brother's feeble lips.
"TK... you know she won't call. She doesn't care about us." His blue eyes clouded with well-hidden pain. I sighed.
"She *does* care, though, onii-san. I *know* it!" I had reiterated that claim time and time again, because we talked about this subject often.
"Yeah?" countered Yama bitterly. "Then why'd she up and leave us here with... *him*?"
Lost for words, I glared at my brother, stood, and walked into the kitchen. Suddenly, I heard the front door slam and a person stumble inside. I froze. Yama's head jerked up above the couch. "Get to your room!" he hissed. "Don't get in his way!"
I tried, I swear I did, but fear, at least, fear of him, always seems to petrify me. I stood fixed to the spot as my father staggered into the kitchen, the strong smell of liquor on his breath. I fingered a still-tender bruise on my cheek apprehensively as he approached unsteadily, and retreated until my back hit the counter.
He raised a burly fist, and I instinctively winced in anticipation. It slammed solidly into my stomach as I doubled over in pain. He balled his other hand and smashed it into my shoulder, flinging me backwards against the counter. Gasping for breath, I saw Yama out of the corner of my eye shrinking back down onto the couch. A hand slapped twice across my face and I reeled away, stumbling over a chair in my haste to escape. He grabbed my arm and yanked me to my feet, then threw me into the wall. My senses swam as I kneeled groggily on the ground, darkness closing in on my line of vision.
My father approached me again, and I flinched, but surprisingly, he blundered past me and rummaged in the refrigerator, pulling out a bottle of beer. I let down my guard and felt my energy trickle away, collapsing in a heap. Shadows overtook my mind, and the darkness was merciful.
----
"TK!" a voice hissed, penetrating my subconscious. My vision swam as I opened my eyes, just barely making out my brother's face.
"Yama?" I asked weakly, feeling all my aches rushing back. I moaned, trying to push myself into a sitting position. Yama helped, propping me against the wall. "Is he...?" I left the question hanging.
"Yeah, he's still here, but he collapsed over there. He's gonna have one helluva hangover tomorrow morning, so try and stay out of his way," Yama informed me. "And *you*, TK," he continued, "have a couple of very pretty bruises. I don't think anything's broken this time, though."
I grimaced, attempting to stand. "Yeah, well, that's just great." My head swam, and I dizzily clutched at my brother until everything cleared.
"I'll help you to your room," he offered, gently supporting me. I limped into my bedroom, collapsing tiredly on the bed. "You were only out for about an hour, ototo-san. It's only around 6:30."
I sat bolt upright, gasping in pain. "Oh, my God! I have a basketball game at 7:30! The coach won't be happy if I miss another one, and if he's not happy, he'll call Dad, and..."
"Shh!" Yama interrupted my fearful ramblings. "What time do you have to be there to warm up?"
"Half an hour ago," I groaned. "Can you drive me there?"
"Sure, but..." He glanced at me, concerned. "Are you in the condition to play?"
"No," I said bluntly. "But, it doesn't really matter, does it? If I miss, the coach will be pissed, and then Dad will be pissed, and after that I'll prob'ly never play in another game again." Yama nodded understandingly and helped me to stand. I rummaged through my closet, throwing on my uniform, as Yama grabbed his keys. We rushed out of the apartment, scurrying into the elevator to the parking lot, where we jumped into the car.
"Dad'll be really mad when he finds out I'm gone..." I said haltingly, glancing nervously back at the receding building.
"Don't worry," Yama assured me, concentrating on the road. "I'll tell him you're in your room. You know he never touches me, for some reason, so..."
I felt slightly jealous of my brother, but also grateful. "Thanks, Yama."
We screeched to a halt in front of the school, where the lights were already bathing the pavement with a warm glow, and I glanced at Yama, indicating my bruises. "What should I tell 'em this time? I got in another fight?"
Yama considered this. "Say you fell down the stairs and kinda blacked out, and that's why you're late." He smiled encouragingly. "Wish I could stay, ototo-san, but I have to get back in case he wakes up. Can you hitch a ride home?"
"Either that, or walk." I waved, grabbing my gym bag from the trunk. "See ya!" I watched as the car sped away into the darkness. Taking a deep breath, I walked into the gym.
"Takeru! Where were you?" the coach bellowed, approaching me angrily. Suddenly, he stopped, and squinted at me. "And what the hell happened? Get in *another* fight? What's this, the seventh?"
I glanced down, and saw that the bruises were even more obvious in the loose fitting uniform. I hoped fervently that no one could see the ugly scars that decorated my back from my father's belt. I always put on an undershirt to avoid that happening, but I could never tell what anyone saw.
"Um... Hi, coach," I said weakly. He scowled darkly, but there was sympathy prevalent in his eyes. "I, um... fell down the... stairs and kind of blacked out.
"Oh," he said sarcastically, "and this would be only the *sixth* time you've done *that*. Takeru, what is really up? I should call your father, and..."
He never finished, because a panicked look flitted across my face, and I began to plead with him. "No, please, sir, I won't be late again, I promise!" I prayed he would take my excuse with no further questions.
Coach's POV
"No, please, sir, I won't be late again, I promise!" Takeru implored, almost pathetically. I saw fear obvious in his expression at the very mention of his father, and wondered, for the thousandth time, what was wrong with this kid. An incredible basketball player... good enough to be on the high school varsity, and only in 8th grade. He had already been boosted to the high school freshman team, which was the highest level a middle-schooler could get to. However, he was habitually late to games and practices, which infuriated me, naturally. He was also covered in bruises and scars, and looked almost malnourished.
"All right, Ishida, get to the court and warm up.," I growled. Takeru shot me a thankful glance and ran off to grab his basketball.
I told myself that if his father showed up to the game, I would ask what kinds of kids Takeru got into fights with. 'Fat chance of that,' I thought. Takeru's father never came to games or practices. Takeru always seemed grateful of that, and besides, all the girls in both high school and middle school came to cheer him on. I allowed myself a humored grin as I made my way to the center court. Already a girl magnet, and he didn't even realise it.
I blew a short blast on my whistle and waited as the boys gathered around me. "All right, guys," I said encouragingly, "this is it. Districts playoffs. I'm surprised we made it this far, and proud of you, too. Run five laps for warm up, then stretch. Go!" I barked, watching as they jogged off.
Yamato's POV
Damn! I hit the steering wheel angrily. I am such a coward. I never even stand up to my father for TK because I'm just too afraid. Dad never even touched me before; for some reason... he centers everything on TK. He brags to his friends about his wonderful sons, TK on honor roll and a star basketball player, me a singer, but at home he either completely ignores us or beats the crap out of TK.
Pulling into the parking garage below our building, I nervously got out of the car. I slammed the door and made my way to the elevator door in the dim light. When I got to my apartment, I entered cautiously, praying Dad wasn't awake yet.
"Yes!" I whispered quietly in triumph, seeing him still slumped in a chair. I made my way to my niche on the couch, anxiously awaiting either TK's return or my father's waking up... God forbid if they happen at the same time.
Suddenly, the phone rang out shrilly. Panicked, I ran for it, grabbing it hastily and snapping into the receiver as Dad stirred slightly. "What?!" Dad mumbled and rolled over again. I let out a sigh of relief.
On the other line, Daisuke's voice was tinny and tinged with annoyance. "Hey, dude, having a bad hair day or something? Jeez."
"Sorry," I said apologetically. "Anyways, what do you want?"
"Is Takeru there?" he asked.
"No," I replied, running a hand through my bushy blonde hair, aggravated. "He's at the basketball game, remember? You can find him there."
"Oh, okay... Hey, Yamato, we might need you, too. Any chance you can get out of the house? We're calling all of the other digidestined... we need all the reinforcements we can get. We came up with a plan to capture the Kaiser!"
"Really?" Despite my promise to TK to stay in the house, my curiosity was aroused. "You bet! Where do we meet?"
"I guess since TK's at the high school, we'll meet there. After the game, we'll all conference. I'll tell you what we're going to do."
"Okay," I agreed, and hung up the phone. Abruptly, a wave of apprehension washed over me. What if Dad woke up? I swiftly wrote a note, leaving it next to his half empty beer can and limp hand. Running out the door, I cast one last glance back at him. He looked like he would be unconscious for at least a few more hours... I could safely leave.
Taichi's POV
I stood in the crowded auditorium, glaring angrily at the score clock. There were still ten minutes left in the second half, and personally, I was burning with curiosity about what Daisuke had to say. I tapped my foot impatiently, watching Takeru weave in and out of opposing players to score yet another basket as the wild crowds cheered incessantly. He glanced up at all of us Digidestined standing by the door, and flashed us a quick grin before running to guard another player. The cheerleaders jumped up and down energetically as I stared restlessly at the close game.
Takeru's team was up by eighteen points, but that was mostly thanks to Takeru's phenomenal playing. If he was taken out - and I'd noticed the playing getting more and more aggressive - the other team would probably easily tie the game, sending it into overtime.
"Go, Takeru!" screamed my little sister, Hikari, who was jumping up and down excitedly next to me. Easy for her. She already *knew* about the plan. Yamato, Sora, Koushiro, Jyou, and I exchanged annoyed looks, all glaring pointedly at the clock, which was moving agonizingly slowly. Mimi Tachikawa, the last of the original Digidestined, was still in America, and so couldn't come. However, Daisuke had told me that he'd already e-mailed her and filled her in on what we were doing. So, basically, us five were the only ones who didn't know... well, us and Takeru, but he didn't have to wait for it like us, because he was playing the game.
Now it was seconds that were left... 30... 29... Suddenly, a large, bulky player ran heedlessly into Takeru, slamming him into the padded gym wall. Both sides of the crowds were immediately booing his unsportsmanlike behavior, as Takeru collapsed, dazed, on the ground. Beside me, Hikari and Yamato winced, as the rest of us cried out derogatory terms for the huge ugly boy. The referee blew a sharp blast on his whistle, and took the large boy out of the game to his bench, where he was scolded sternly by his coach.
On the court, Takeru stood slowly, amid wild cheers from our side. He took two technical foul shots, which he made easily, and the rest of the game passed uneventfully. As the final buzzer sounded, Takeru slipped out of the crowds that were flooding onto the court, and jogged up to us. He was breathing heavily, his shirt, hair, and skin all soaked with sweat. His pale skin was accented with many bruises, and I winced. All that from being slammed into the wall?
"I have to go to the locker room for the post-game talk, and take a quick shower, but I'll be right up after that, 'kay?" Daisuke nodded, and Takeru turned and sprinted down to the court, where he was encircled by screaming fans and teammates.
I looked pleadingly at Daisuke, who grinned maliciously. "No, Taichi, you have to wait until Takeru gets back."
"Argh!" I screamed, slamming my hand into the metal railing. *Not* a good idea. "Itai!" I yelled, dancing around and clutching my injured hand. Hikari giggled behind me, and I shot her a dark look. "Would *you* like to try that, dear sister?" I asked menacingly.
"No, Tai," she countered, "I wouldn't be so stupid, baka!" Since when did my sister get so annoying? I grimaced and massaged my hand, scanning the court eagerly for Takeru's return.
Some twenty minutes later, after the crowds had thinned, Takeru sauntered casually out of the locker room, placing his trademark white bucket hat on his damp hair. "What's up, Dai?"
Daisuke grinned. "We figured out just how we're going to capture the Kaiser!"
I leaned in anticipation, although I was almost expecting another of Dai's half-witted schemes. But, if Iori helped... I cast a glance at the thoughtful eleven-year-old, who was smiling smugly. Yep, Iori helped. Hey, maybe the plan would be good after all...
"Here's what we do..."
Ken's POV - The Next Day
I limped in the front door, humming slightly. It had been a good day - I got an 'A' on my test, something I usually don't get. Osamu wouldn't be happy. I frowned slightly. He'd say I was taking glory from him again. Geez, why can't the guy ever accept that I, to put it in nice terms, kick his butt in sports? Plus, he should be pleased for my accomplishments, and it's not like I ever get anything more than a 'B' usually. It's him that's the genius... I mean, he can be such a jerk... But then again, I've never understood him.
I slid off my shoes, wincing - my ankle was still hurting me, although the doctor had said I didn't need crutches. It was just a minor sprain, and I was wearing a brace until it healed. As I set my shoes to the side of the hallway, I noticed a small piece of paper that had evidently been shoved in through the mail chute. I picked it up, and read it, my eyes widening as I saw the message that had been printed there:
Ken -
I have something for you... I'm sorry for being such a bad sport the other day in the game. I hope you'll forgive me. I want to make it up to you. Meet me in the computer lab of Odaiba Middle School today (the 5th) at 4:30.
-Daisuke
I furrowed my brow. Daisuke... so that was his name? I glanced at my watch, noting that I didn't have that much time to get there. Luckily, I had been to the school before in a chess competition (which I'd lost miserably, but I won't get into that), and knew my way around. Scribbling a quick note to my parents that I would be back soon, and shoving my shoes back on, I limped out the door, ignoring a sixth sense that told me not to go, wondering just what this Daisuke had in store for me.
-------
Japanese Dictionary
- ototo-san = younger brother
- onii-san = older brother
- itai = ouch
- baka = idiot
- domo arigatou = thanks a lot/ much thanks
I think this is all the Japanese I used in this part... if it isn't and anyone has questions, just put it in a review or something. I'm prob'ly gonna get e-mail soon (as in, an e-mail other than my dad's, who would be very freaked out if he found Digimon e-mails in his mailbox... *grins*), and when I do, I'll post my e-mail so y'all can ask me questions. :) Now, onto the end-of-story, neverending author's note!
*sobs* I'm sorry Takeru! I just had to make it so it was vewwwy obvious that Aquarius (that bad, bad, superior being) reallly screwed up people's lives, even people's other than Ken. And I'll explain, or, rather, Aquarius will explain, why everything happened like it did. That won't be for a while, tho'... *cackles* Cliffhangers are so fun!
By the way, don't say I'm sick or twisted, 'cos I'm not. Abuse is a serious subject that shouldn't be taken lightly. I wouldn't have put it in my fic at all, except that it fit in so well with the plot and is really as a sub-theme (as in a problem that the one of the kids is facing OTHER than the oh-so-obvious one of the Kaiser - there are a couple, actually, I think... although it's not *completely* developed yet.).
*screams* Stupid spellchecker! This thing just has *so* much fun with this story... hits computer Ah... anyway...
See that box down there? Yep, the one that says 'Be a responsible reader and review.' Um, listen to the dear little thingy, and review please! Tell me if ya like it, tell me if ya hate it, um... tell me if you're somewhere in between... Thank ya! *grins* Next part should be out soon! :)