Silver Lining
Well, not really AU, but they do go to one. Yaio + Yuri + Het'.
It could be weird, save for the fact that I'm a logical person so
everything makes perfect sense. If you don't get it you must be pretty
stupid.
Oh yeah, lots of angst in this chap'. *sniffle*
Chapter 2: Project: Jelly Bean
The Digidestined looked around, they were all standing in a cave. It was dark enough that they couldn't make out the walls of the cave, the drip of water and the stale musty air added to the feel of being uninhabited for a long time. There was also a distinctly wrong feeling to the whole place.
"I thought the gateway was in Myotismons castle." Whispered TK.
"Isn't there a light?" Whimpered Ken, tightening his grip on Davis' hand.
"We destroyed the castle in the Digital war." Sedra explained, her voice was loud enough to make them all jump. "It's only luck that the gateway wasn't destroyed with it."
A dim grey light blossomed out of the darkness, illuminating the hand that held it, as well as a scowling face. "This way." Said Lee walking away.
"Well?" Cried Sedra, causing everyone to start again. She hefted a large, 'chinking' duffle bag onto her shoulder. "You heard the lady, let's move out."
They all began following the light.
Frowning TK caught up with the mysterious blonde. There was something that was bothering him and now seemed like a good time to ask. "Hey?"
The older girl flashed him a confident smile. "'Hey' yourself."
"Why do you hate Matt so much?" He asked bluntly.
She gave a sad sigh, the smile melting away. "Maybe I don't hate him at all. Maybe it's myself I hate?"
TK frowned. "But, that doesn't make any sense."
"It does. You don't need to try to turn me to the light Takeru. I'm not ready to face that yet. Save your energy for someone who deserves it."
"But-"
"No Takeru." Pale green eyes misted over as she was lost in a memory. "I know what you'd say, so don't bother. Go back to your friends; you're safe with them. Not me."
Completely thrown, TK stopped staring at her in confusion, "But. Why?" Lee just kept on walking.
Sedra was talking to Tai and Izzy as they approached the still confused blonde. "All the nobles live in the Digital World. They have no idea what's going on in the real world." She trailed off seeing the expression on TK's face. "What's wrong?"
TK shrugged. "It's nothing. I was just talking to Lee and-"
"Say no more! Let me guess." She put on an exaggerated moping expression. " 'I'm not safe to be around. I'm inadequate. I hate myself.' Blah blah blah, so on and so forth."
He smiled weakly. "Yeah, about that."
She smiled and thumped him on the back. "Aw, don't worry about it. If she want's to tell you she will, until then just let her brood. Sticking your nose in Yaleea's business is like covering yourself in chocolate and walking past Daisuke; certain death!"
They rounded a sharp corner and found themselves blinking in the bright sunlight of the Digitalworld.
Sedra yawned and stretched, breathing in the fresh air. "Ah, Home again, home again, jiggerty jig!"
"YAY!!! Sedra!!!" Cried a high-pitched, distinctly feminine voice. The small brunette was bowled off her feet by a blur of gold. "You're back. I'm sooooo happy! Did you bring me a present from the other world? Cause you pwomised you would!"
Sedra was laughing and hugging a Digimon they'd never seen before. It looked cross between Agumon and Veemon only it was more slender with a long dexterous tail. It had bright gold scales and slanted ember orange eyes. Fluttering uselessly on it back were two tiny snow white, gold ribbed bat wings.
"Of corse I did! It's in this bag right here; I'll give it to you later. Guys I'd like to introduce my Digimon, Draceenimon. 'Eeni, this is the other world Digidestined." Giggled Sedra.
"HI!!!" Chirped the Digimon. "Thanks for coming to help us! Cause we really, really need it!" Then the Digimons eyes widened. "Look out Sedra! It's the Kaizer!" She shreked pointing frantically at Tai.
"Hey it's okay!" Cried Tai in alarm. "I'm not evil in my world! I'm good, I've come to help you."
Draceenimon looked over at Sedra who nodded encouragingly, then she looked up at the 'Kaizer' and saw the hurt expression on his face. "Soweeee!" She giggled, latching onto Tai's leg. "I like U Mr 'not the Kaizer'. Sedra likes U, so I like U!"
Tai smiled and petted the Digimon on the head. "Thanks, I like you too."
They all watched in astonishment as the little lizard Digimon blushed a pretty shade of pink. She scampered back over to Sedra. "DarkGabumon and I was worried. I'm happy that you're happy. Poor Gabu's not cause Lee's not."
"Where is Lee?" Asked Matt, suddenly realising that the pessimistic girl was not adding her expected disparaging comments.
Sedra looked around and spotted her friend some distance away. She was clinging desperately onto her Digimon, sobbing into his dark fur. Unfortunately all the other Digidestined had spotted her as well.
"Ken? Why's Lee crying?" Asked Davis.
Matt was staring in shock. "She comes across as such a cold hearted bitch."
"Only that's not the impression we get now." Finished Kari softly.
Sora was looking murderously at Matt. "It's only been four days since her brother was murdered in front of her, and she's had the strength to go this far. How would you react if you were in her shoes Yamato?"
The blond looked properly ashamed of himself and cast a sad glance at TK.
"I think it'd be best if we gave her some time to herself." Interrupted Sedra, picking up the duffle bag. "She knows where we're headed, luckily the Ichijouji manor isn't too far away."
"Ichijouji? We're going to Kens house?" Asked Joe.
Sedra shook her head. "Ken was disowned by his parents for being a Digidestined. They were publicly executed a year later for withholding information about the DD from the Kaizer. We'll be visiting Osamu and his wife; they let us hide out on their land some times. Even though harbouring a Digidestined is a crime that can earn you a death by torture." She informed them matter-of-factly; everyone was gaping at her. "Well? Chop chop! This way please."
Tai caught up with the brunette and her Digimon. "Are you hoping to meet everyone there?" He asked.
Sedra shrugged. "I'm expecting Ken to be there, as well as Daisuke since you won't find one without the other. The little ones Takato, Rika, Henry, Gerry, Riyu and Suzie. Probably anyone who was injured, so Jyou and Mimi should be there. Osamu should have information on everyone's whereabouts."
"Excuse me, Mr Tai?" Tai was startled by the high-pitched voice of Draceenimon. "I'm really tiered, can U pweese carry me?" Asked the gold Digimon.
Tai smiled. "Sure." And picked up the little lizard. "Wow, You're a lot lighter than you look." He said in surprise. Draceenimon blushed happily and fluttered her ineffective wings in a flirtatious manner.
"Harlot." Muttered Sedra under her breath.
They'd been walking for ten minutes when they entered a small clearing to find Lee waiting for them. She was perched atop a Garurumon that was Midnight blue in colour covered with snowy stripes. Its sharp gold eyes watched them suspiciously. "You sure took your time getting here." Complained the blond. "Garu-Chan and I thought we might have to send a search party!" She might have never been crying. Her voice held its usual irritated tone again.
"You must be feeling better, if you can tell us how inadequate we all are." Joked Sedra.
"Can it, Wilder. We're almost at the Ichijouji residence and I don't want your childish drivel to ruin my generous mood." She bantered. "I checked it out, and everything seems fine from the outside."
"Good. Come on guys! Its just behind those trees." Smiled Sedra.
Lee looked distastefully at Draceenimon snuggled up in Tai's arms. "Sometimes I think you should have been Miyakos Digimon."
Eeni blushed fuchsia. "What'd she mean by that?" Whispered Tai to Sedra.
"Oh, nothing. Miya tends to be a bit risqué."
"Hu?"
"Never mind!" Interrupted Draceenimon.
The group exited the forest and paused to stare up at the huge manor. Four stories high, plus the attic and what looked like a miniature tower. It was gigantic, with sprawling gardens, tennis court, swimming pool and even had a maze. The walls looked as though they has been made from seamless bone- white stone, the roof was a lovely black/blue shingle and the back terrace was decorated by large gold flecked grey/blue/white marble columns.
"Pretty impressive, hu?" Sedra grinned at the dumbfounded expressions of the Digidestined.
"It looks better from the front." Grouched Lee. "Now stop stalling, I want to talk to Mrs Ichijouji."
"Osamu lives here?" Whispered Ken in awe.
Sedra shrugged, "Yeah, but I guess that's what happens when you're one of the Kaizers top scientists."
A young, pretty lady in her early twenties came hurrying down the steps. She wore a candy pink sundress and her red hair was tied back in a neat ponytail with a shimmery pink ribbon. She looked VERY familiar.
"Lee! Sedra! You're okay!" She cried happily and hugged the two girls with rib-cracking enthusiasm. "Hey Jun." Smiled the shorter brunette hugging Mrs Ichijouji back with an equal amount of force.
"That's JUN!?" Gaped Davis, his eyes the size of dinner plates. Everyone was staring along with him.
Jun released Sedra but squeezed Lee even tighter. "Oh Lee! I'm so sorry about Takeru!" She sniffed tearfully.
The blond pushed her away. "How did you know?" She demanded coldly. "Did the Kaizer.?"
"No," Said Jun sadly. "He didn't announce it. Kari. She found Iori." Lee looked like she was going to be sick.
"Oh God. I'd hoped. It would have been kinder if he had died fighting." She whispered. "How is he?"
Jun just shook her head grimly. Then she looked around, blinking owlishly as she noticed the Digidestined for the first time. "WOW! I see that 'Project: Jelly Bean' was a success! Look! There's Izzy; and there's The Squirt! And even a Sora! And a - SHIT!!" Jun leapt back, hand over her heart, looking like she was facing death by torture.
"It's okay!" Cried Tai, truly disturbed by the sight of a terrified Jun Motomiya. "I'm not the Kaizer! Sheesh! Why does every one do that? It's really starting to tick me off!"
In his arms Draceenimon giggled. "Maybe you should get a badge." She suggested helpfully.
"Oh, sorry!" She apologised with the Motomiya trademark grin. Then her eyes fell on Matt. "Hell-o! Who might you be?" she cooed. Matt took a cautious step back and Sedra slapped her over the head.
"His name's Yamato. Sorry Junny, but you're married, remember?"
"That's right, I am too." She eyed Yamato appreciatively. "Damn!"
Then an unfamiliar voice reached their ears. "Jun? Who are you talking to?" A young man, slightly older than Jun walked into the garden. He was tall and slender, with spiky blue hair, elegant rectangular glasses and open violet eyes. He had the appearance of a usually happy person under too much stress.
"Osamu?" Squeaked Ken. Davis, who still held his hand, squeezed it reassuringly.
"Sedra, Lee, you're back." He looked at his unexpected guests. "You must be the Alternant Universe Digidestined. Welcome to my home, I am Ichijouji Osamu. Please forgive me if I seem rude but I have some pressing problems."
"Problems?" Asked Sedra seriously.
"Yes, Hikari found Ken yesterday, he was prowling the area around the destroyed base. Apparently he's been Feral since the attack, we can't seem to snap him out of it."
"Neither you or Daisuke? That is a problem."
"No," Osamu shook his head. "Daisuke hasn't turned up yet. Hikari has been searching but she can't find him anywhere."
"You don't think.?"
"I doubt it, Ken is just Feral, he's been accepting food and water. Not like."
"Iori?" The man sighed and ran a hand through his already untidy hair.
"I'm not sure what to do with him. He won't react to any kind of stimuli. He hasn't moved from the chair Jun put him in once, he just sits there, staring."
Sedra nodded grimly. "Who else has been recovered?"
"Hikari found the little ones, Jyou and Mimi arrived last night. We've lost Gerri, Suzie and Willis. That leaves Koushiro, Miyako and Daisuke unaccounted for."
"Can we help in some way?" Interrupted TK.
Osamu considered this then smiled. "Actually, young Takeru, I believe you can."
"No." Growled Lee, stepping in between Osamu and Takeru. "There has to be a better way. Who's going to explain it to Iori when he snaps out of it? You?"
"What would you have me do? Kill him?" Snapped Osamu.
"It would be kinder!" She insisted.
"Excuse me," Interrupted Iori gently. "If it was me, and it is. I'd want to make that sort of decision myself."
"FINE!!!! Destroy him if that's you want! Because it will!" Raged the blond. "But you can tell him Osamu Ichijouji, or you can!" She rounded on Iori. "You - you CHILD! This isn't about you! You don't know him; you've never met him. You don't know what he's like! Do you want to be the one to tell him that the only person he's ever loved is DEAD?? Does that please you? Do you want to be the one that has to look into his empty eyes and tell him that the person he'd bonded his soul to is gone and nothing he does can ever make him come back? Who wants to do that? No one! Who's going to have to do that? ME! I'll have to tell him. I'll be the one to watch him die inside! I'll be the one who sees the last remains of my brother wither and crumble! ME!!!"
She turned and stalked into the house, her gold braid whipping behind her. Iori was left blinking in shock.
"She's so cold now." Whispered Osamu.
Jun hugged him tightly, "It's horrible, but I can't help but be grateful that it wasn't Daisuke or Ken. How would you feel in her position? Can you really blame her?"
He sighed. "No, not really." Jun kissed him lightly on the lips.
"I have faith in your decision, do what you think is best." She gave husband one confidant smile then turned to Davis. "Well Squirt, give your big sister a hug!" She cried, throwing her arms wide.
Davis jumped back. "As if. Get real Jun!"
She burst out laughing. "Oh, he's all sweet and innocent again, like he was before your brother got his hands on him." She told her husband. "You can help us with Ken, Squirt! We need you to go and talk to him."
Poor Davis looked very confused. "What are you talking about? Ken's right here!"
"Not your Ken, silly! Our Ken." She grabbed him by the wrist and began dragging him up the steps to the house. "You coming Sedra?" She called.
The little brunette gave a malicious smirk upon recalling what had always happened after their Daisuke had 'woken' Ken all the other times. "Sure. I wouldn't want to miss this!" and hurried after the two.
Osamu looked uncertain for a moment. "Follow me then." and led them into the house.
It was full of paintings, tapestries, statues, marble floors, chandeliers and polished wooden doors. Long corridors twisted and branched off, creating a maze of wealth and fineness that was rather daunting. Ken was uncomfortably reminded of his old base; but, in a way, wasn't at all surprised at the similarities.
They followed the older Ichijouji into a sun-flooded room. Lee knelt next to a large armchair facing the window. Only the hand of the person in the chair could be seen, resting on the only visible armrest. The blond was stroking the unresponsive hand and talking quietly to the person.
She looked up when they entered and scowled. "For the last time, don't do this Ichijouji. You'll destroy him."
Osamu sighed, "Yaleea, I understand where you're coming from, but Sedra needs as many of her people as she can get."
The blond stepped back, but still looking reluctant. "I understand."
Osamu nodded and pushed Takeru forward. "Go ahead, talk to him." He said encouragingly.
"Why do you think TK can help?" asked Matt.
Osamu looked surprised at the question. "Takeru and Iori were Soul-bound. A side effect of their Dark Spores nearly all the Digidestined have encountered is that their minds and souls somehow merge with their respective partners, creating a strange sort of spiritual link; and as such Iori felt it the moment Takeru passed away. His mind is hiding because it can no longer cope with the reality that Takeru is gone. Hasn't this happened in your reality?"
All the Digidestined shook their heads, looking completely dumbstruck. "Ken is the only one in our world with a Dark spore." Said Izzy helpfully.
"Intriguing." Mused the older Ichijouji. "There appears to be many minor differences, all linking into major ones. After this we must talk. It would be interesting to find the exact moment our realities separated."
TK stared down at the person sitting in the chair.
It was Iori.
Only he looked different.
Perfect doll like curls tumbled to his shoulders in glistening brown spirals. Freckles lightly dusted across his nose. His green eyes were glassy and stared forward blankly. He looked so much like a fragile porcelain doll it was kind of scary. Like he wasn't alive at all.
"Iori, wake up." He whispered uneasily, lightly touching one of the cold hands. "It's me Takeru Takashi. You have to help us save your world. Come back to us." There was no response. He looked up helplessly.
"OUT!" Ordered Lee pointing imperiously at the door. Osamu opened his mouth to protest. "They might not want to see this. Besides, Ichijouji, this is what I like to call a 'Private Moment'." She said sarcastically and herded every one out the room. At the door she paused, looking over her shoulder, the gentle smile she gave him reminded TK strongly of someone, Who, he quite place. "I'll just be waiting outside, give us a call then you need help. You know what you have to do." Then she closed the door, leaving the two alone.
Oh God! He wiped his sweaty palm on his jeans and looked around; just to double check that there was no one else in the room.
All clear.
TK took a deep breath, gathered up his courage and slowly lent forwards, pressing his lips against his best friends.
~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~
"Um, are you sure this is a good idea?" asked Davis uncertainly, worried by the strange looks Jun and Sedra kept sending him.
"Sure it is." Smiled his older sister reassuringly. "All you have to do is just walk in there. It's that simple."
"Besides," Added Sedra, placing her arm around his shoulders in a friendly fashion. "This is Ken we're talking about. He's your best friend, it's not like he's going to hurt you."
"Well. Okay." He caved. "I guess you're right."
The two girls grinned at each other and pushed him through the open door, quickly shutting it behind him.
"Hey!" He pouted in the dark. "That's not f-" He broke off with a squeak as he heard a soft rumbling noise. It kind of sounded like Raidramon when he was pissed off.
"Uh. Ken? Is that you?" The growling noise got even louder, Davis could tell that it was coming from the far corner of the room but couldn't make out any shapes in the darkness of the room.
He took a cautious step towards the sound. "It's me Davis. uh, Daisuke? What do you call me in this reality?"
"D-Dai chan?" Kens voice floated out of the shadows, sounding lost and uncertain.
"Yep! That's my name, don't ware it out!" Davis was so busy congratulating himself on a job well done that he was caught completely by surprise when laughing, Ken picked him up and spun him around.
"H-hey! Ken! Put me down!" He squealed.
"Anything you say Dai chan." Davis was momentarily worried when he heard the smirk in Kens voice before he was flying through the darkness. He landed with a muffled squeak on something soft and springy.
A bed?
He felt the mattress indent as Ken sat down on the bed. "Hm, I've been Feral a while, I can feel it in my bones." He purred, hands already wandering. "Ready to make up for lost time?"
A wide-eyed Davis flew through the door. Both Jun and Sedra burst out laughing at his rumpled clothes and mussed hair.
"Oops!" Giggled Jun. "Sorry Squirt! I guess we should have warned you, hu?" The panting red head glared at them but didn't have the composure or the breath to form a witty retort.
"I suppose you two thought that was a terribly clever trick to play on the both of us?" Davis recognised the voice as Kens, but it was slightly different from his Kens, a little deeper.
"It was affective as well as amusing." Reasoned Sedra innocently.
A figure stepped out of the shadows; Davis felt his eyes widen. This was definitely not his Ken. It was still a Ken; there was no mistaking that. This one was older, by two or possibly three years, he still had the same hair cut only slightly shorter and ruggedly cut, helping to lose his 'girly look'. This Ken was taller too; the top of Davis's head would only reach his eyes. And speaking of eyes, Davis noticed a scar that sliced through the middle of his right eyebrow, closely missed his eye and continued a little way down. Another defining factor was that his Ken would never wear the tight black leather pants and form fitting silk shirt this one wore that reviled so much of his smooth pale skin.
Davis felt his mouth fall open, but couldn't close it. This ken was.
Well. This Ken was just HOT!
Other-Ken turned his violet eyes on Davis. "You're not my Daisuke. 'Project: Jelly Bean' perhaps? In any case I'd like to apologise for molesting you back there." He smiled Kens shy smile, "It was an honest mistake. You're about 13, that's around the same age we first slept together." He sighed wistfully lost for a moment in happy memories, then turned back to the two girls. "I assume Dai is missing if you had to use him to wake me."
Jun looked worried. "Ken, can you. is he.?"
Other-Ken ran his hand through his untidy blue hair. "Dead? No, I wouldn't be standing here if he were. Dai's alive, I can feel him in the back of my head. It's odd though, I can't feel him only that his life force hasn't been extinguished."
Sedra frowned, "This needs some serious thought. If either of you see Daisuke treat him with caution and get him checked for a Modem strait away."
The two nodded grimly.
Sedra slumped and rubbed at her eyes. "Shit. I hate my life sometimes. Being the Leader really blows." Davis could understand where she was coming from with that one. He was surprised at how old she looked, the platinum streaks in her hair almost seemed tokens of age rather than extensions of her unique character.
"Does it swallow as well?" Other-Ken asked with a grin, instantly lightening the mood.
Sedra burst out laughing transforming back into the fun-loving teenager. "You wretch!" She ruffled his hair affectionately. "Only you'd say something like that!"
"Actually Miya would have said it, but I felt compelled to fill in for her." Corrected Other-Ken.
"Well," Grinning, Sedra slung an arm around Davis. "I guess we should go get Jyou outta bed. Mimi rises with the birds but Jyou is an absolute sloth when it comes to getting up."
Other-Ken sniggered.
"Hentai!" Cried Jun cuffing the boy over the head.
Davis blinked in confusion, completely mystified by the conversation.
~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~
Gently TK pulled back and found emerald eyes blinking up at him.
"Takeru.?" Whispered Other-Iori, his soft voice husky from lack of use. TK watched in wonder as the once lifeless face animated, and in that moment he knew Lee had been right.
Other-Iori looked like an angel, his face fairly glowed, his kissable lips curving into a smile of pure happiness, bottle green eyes sparkled as they looked adoringly upon TK's face.
"Takeru, love, what happened? I remember fighting at the base, then feeling." Other-Iori's radiant features clouded for a moment. "But I must have just been dreaming. Right?" Trembling fingers reached up and brushed TK's cheek tenderly, "I mean, you're here and every thing. You're standing right in front of me." Green eyes crinkled in confusion and unshed tears glittered. "Then why can't I feel you Takeru? Don't you love me anymore?"
TK hung his head guiltily, "Iori, I. There's something I have to tell you."
Other-Iori was crying now, desperately he leapt up from his seat and pulled TK into a searing kiss. The blond melted into it, surrendering for only a few seconds before pushing the shorter boy away.
"No," He panted, trying to control hid hormones. "Iori, please, you have to listen."
"Tell me you love me?" Begged the brunette in a broken whisper his hands twisting in the fabric of TK's shirt.
TK shook his head. "I can't. I'm not your Takeru."
Other-Iori's eyes took on a wild panicked look. "What do you mean? No. No, of corse you are, you wouldn't leave me! You promised that you wouldn't! I love you Take-chan! But I can't feel you! You're not there, I can't feel you! WHY CAN'T I FEEL YOU???" He screamed, face now contorted by a mixture confusion and sorrow but most noticeably, terror.
The door burst open with such force that TK had to wonder how it didn't break when it slammed in to the wall, and Lee raced in.
"Iori! Iori, calm down!" She pulled the weeping boy into a tight hug. "It's okay, I'm here."
". Lee. Where's Take-chan?"
Lee pulled back to regard him sadly. Then slowly she reached behind herself and slipped the black ribbon from the end of her braid.
"I'm sorry Iori." She whispered not meeting his eyes.
". No." he breathed trembling staring at the black ribbon as if it were a poisonous snake. "No, Takeru. Takeru. you can't be. don't leave me here all alone."
"I'm so sorry Iori, it was my fault. I should have tried harder. it should have been me!" Lee blinked rapidly and crushed the ribbon in her clenched fist.
Other-Iori took a deep breath, wiped the tears from his cheeks and let all emotion drain from his face. "It's not your fault Lee." He said flatly. "He was in my head until the very last moment. I know that he loved you until the very end; I know that he also loved me. And I know that he's waiting for me. But don't worry, I won't make him wait for very long."
Lee studied his blank face before pulling him into another hug. "I understand. But not yet, there's still some things to do."
Other-Iori sighed, but stood rigid in her arms. "Yes, not yet. I'll wait as long as I can." He pulled back and gingerly touched the ribbon still dangling from the blonds fist. "You can keep this Lee."
She looked both surprised and worried. "No, he would have wanted you to have it."
"I don't want it." Other-Iori said flatly. "It's too much of a reminder. Put it back in your hair. it suites you." He gave a soft smile that didn't reach his eyes; they already looked dead. Then he turned to TK, their eyes met for an instant before Other-Iori looked away and quickly rushed out the room.
Confused TK turned his attention to Lee. She was statue still, staring at the black ribbon still crumpled unceremoniously in her fist.
"Lee?" He asked uncertainly touching her shoulder. ".Yaleea.?"
"Brother. Forgive me." The blond burst into tears.
~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~
Sedra was leading Davis and Other-Ken through the maze like halls of the Ichijouji manor. Jun had left them at some point taking Sedras duffle bag with her.
Some one exited a door further up the hall.
"Jyou!" Exclaimed Sedra. "What are you doing up so early?"
A very tall dude turned in surprise. "Sedra!"
Davis blinked; it was Joe.
Once again there were differences. Not only was this Joe taller, his hair was cut short and had a messy/rumpled look on top that somehow went. His clothes were rather casual, a black long sleeved shirt under a white sports jersey and a pair of jeans. Though he was older his face looked strangely boyish without his glasses. He grinned down at her (the top of the girls bushy brown hair didn't even reach his shoulders). "Mimi woke me, Hikari's back and she's got Miyako and Koushiro with her."
Sedra's face split into a grin remarkably like Tai's. "Oh really? We'd better not keep Miyako waiting then."
Jyou agreed whole-heartedly. "I'd hate to think what ideas she might be putting into Mimi's head."
Sedra giggled walking next to Jyou. "I remember what happened last time those two got together brainstorming."
Jyou pulled a sour face. "Don't remind me. I was walking funny for days and I'll never be able to look a bottle of black sambuca, or Koushiro in the face again!"
Sedra patted him on the back sympathetically. "Don't worry, I saw the tape and it was surprisingly tasteful."
Jyou groaned mournfully and covered his eyes. "Why me?" he asked no one in particular.
Davis gave Other-Ken a confused look. "What are they talking about?"
The older boy smiled indulgently and slung an arm around the red heads shoulders. "You'll find out when you're older." He answered vaguely.
Davis frowned. "You sound like my mom."
Other-Ken laughed, a strange light entering his eyes. "Is that so? Well, I'd best rectify that straight away." He grabbed Davis by the hips and pulled him against his surprisingly well-formed body; eliciting a startled squeak from the redhead before Other-Ken covered his mouth in a kiss like from movies Jun liked to watch.
Poor Davis froze, too shocked to react. When Other-Ken pulled away his smirk was eerily reminiscent of the Digimon Kaizer. "I certainly hope your mother wouldn't do that!" He said; the tone in his voice gave Davis the feeling that Other-Ken was laughing at him.
"I.That is. I, er." The boy felt his face burn.
"Ken!" Snapped Sedra, causing Davis to jump guiltily. "What on earth are you doing to Davis?"
Other-Ken feigned innocence. "Nothing."
The brunette snorted. " 'Nothing' my eye! Poor Davis is as red as a tomato." Still smirking Other-Ken just shrugged, observing his handiwork from the corner of his eye.
Sedra watched him for a moment longer, then tugged irritably on one her snowy locks. "Fine! Just don't let 'nothing' happen again. And watchout if I ever find out it progresses to 'something'!"
Other-Ken leered at the fidgeting Davis, knowing that for the time being he'd gotten away with it.
End Chapter two
A/N: Hmm. Well I can't be bothered writing more right now. ^_^ For anyone who's confused by who comes from which dimension, The Digidestined from Sedra's dimension have the original names or if I don't like the dubbed names Sedra's DD have 'Other' in front of their names. Next chapter everyone arrives at the Ichijouji Mansion. Davis is proven right about Sedra and Kari, more explanations and Other-Ken attempts to seduce Dai again!
Luv the Kaizer (Review me, dammit! _)
Oh yeah, lots of angst in this chap'. *sniffle*
Chapter 2: Project: Jelly Bean
The Digidestined looked around, they were all standing in a cave. It was dark enough that they couldn't make out the walls of the cave, the drip of water and the stale musty air added to the feel of being uninhabited for a long time. There was also a distinctly wrong feeling to the whole place.
"I thought the gateway was in Myotismons castle." Whispered TK.
"Isn't there a light?" Whimpered Ken, tightening his grip on Davis' hand.
"We destroyed the castle in the Digital war." Sedra explained, her voice was loud enough to make them all jump. "It's only luck that the gateway wasn't destroyed with it."
A dim grey light blossomed out of the darkness, illuminating the hand that held it, as well as a scowling face. "This way." Said Lee walking away.
"Well?" Cried Sedra, causing everyone to start again. She hefted a large, 'chinking' duffle bag onto her shoulder. "You heard the lady, let's move out."
They all began following the light.
Frowning TK caught up with the mysterious blonde. There was something that was bothering him and now seemed like a good time to ask. "Hey?"
The older girl flashed him a confident smile. "'Hey' yourself."
"Why do you hate Matt so much?" He asked bluntly.
She gave a sad sigh, the smile melting away. "Maybe I don't hate him at all. Maybe it's myself I hate?"
TK frowned. "But, that doesn't make any sense."
"It does. You don't need to try to turn me to the light Takeru. I'm not ready to face that yet. Save your energy for someone who deserves it."
"But-"
"No Takeru." Pale green eyes misted over as she was lost in a memory. "I know what you'd say, so don't bother. Go back to your friends; you're safe with them. Not me."
Completely thrown, TK stopped staring at her in confusion, "But. Why?" Lee just kept on walking.
Sedra was talking to Tai and Izzy as they approached the still confused blonde. "All the nobles live in the Digital World. They have no idea what's going on in the real world." She trailed off seeing the expression on TK's face. "What's wrong?"
TK shrugged. "It's nothing. I was just talking to Lee and-"
"Say no more! Let me guess." She put on an exaggerated moping expression. " 'I'm not safe to be around. I'm inadequate. I hate myself.' Blah blah blah, so on and so forth."
He smiled weakly. "Yeah, about that."
She smiled and thumped him on the back. "Aw, don't worry about it. If she want's to tell you she will, until then just let her brood. Sticking your nose in Yaleea's business is like covering yourself in chocolate and walking past Daisuke; certain death!"
They rounded a sharp corner and found themselves blinking in the bright sunlight of the Digitalworld.
Sedra yawned and stretched, breathing in the fresh air. "Ah, Home again, home again, jiggerty jig!"
"YAY!!! Sedra!!!" Cried a high-pitched, distinctly feminine voice. The small brunette was bowled off her feet by a blur of gold. "You're back. I'm sooooo happy! Did you bring me a present from the other world? Cause you pwomised you would!"
Sedra was laughing and hugging a Digimon they'd never seen before. It looked cross between Agumon and Veemon only it was more slender with a long dexterous tail. It had bright gold scales and slanted ember orange eyes. Fluttering uselessly on it back were two tiny snow white, gold ribbed bat wings.
"Of corse I did! It's in this bag right here; I'll give it to you later. Guys I'd like to introduce my Digimon, Draceenimon. 'Eeni, this is the other world Digidestined." Giggled Sedra.
"HI!!!" Chirped the Digimon. "Thanks for coming to help us! Cause we really, really need it!" Then the Digimons eyes widened. "Look out Sedra! It's the Kaizer!" She shreked pointing frantically at Tai.
"Hey it's okay!" Cried Tai in alarm. "I'm not evil in my world! I'm good, I've come to help you."
Draceenimon looked over at Sedra who nodded encouragingly, then she looked up at the 'Kaizer' and saw the hurt expression on his face. "Soweeee!" She giggled, latching onto Tai's leg. "I like U Mr 'not the Kaizer'. Sedra likes U, so I like U!"
Tai smiled and petted the Digimon on the head. "Thanks, I like you too."
They all watched in astonishment as the little lizard Digimon blushed a pretty shade of pink. She scampered back over to Sedra. "DarkGabumon and I was worried. I'm happy that you're happy. Poor Gabu's not cause Lee's not."
"Where is Lee?" Asked Matt, suddenly realising that the pessimistic girl was not adding her expected disparaging comments.
Sedra looked around and spotted her friend some distance away. She was clinging desperately onto her Digimon, sobbing into his dark fur. Unfortunately all the other Digidestined had spotted her as well.
"Ken? Why's Lee crying?" Asked Davis.
Matt was staring in shock. "She comes across as such a cold hearted bitch."
"Only that's not the impression we get now." Finished Kari softly.
Sora was looking murderously at Matt. "It's only been four days since her brother was murdered in front of her, and she's had the strength to go this far. How would you react if you were in her shoes Yamato?"
The blond looked properly ashamed of himself and cast a sad glance at TK.
"I think it'd be best if we gave her some time to herself." Interrupted Sedra, picking up the duffle bag. "She knows where we're headed, luckily the Ichijouji manor isn't too far away."
"Ichijouji? We're going to Kens house?" Asked Joe.
Sedra shook her head. "Ken was disowned by his parents for being a Digidestined. They were publicly executed a year later for withholding information about the DD from the Kaizer. We'll be visiting Osamu and his wife; they let us hide out on their land some times. Even though harbouring a Digidestined is a crime that can earn you a death by torture." She informed them matter-of-factly; everyone was gaping at her. "Well? Chop chop! This way please."
Tai caught up with the brunette and her Digimon. "Are you hoping to meet everyone there?" He asked.
Sedra shrugged. "I'm expecting Ken to be there, as well as Daisuke since you won't find one without the other. The little ones Takato, Rika, Henry, Gerry, Riyu and Suzie. Probably anyone who was injured, so Jyou and Mimi should be there. Osamu should have information on everyone's whereabouts."
"Excuse me, Mr Tai?" Tai was startled by the high-pitched voice of Draceenimon. "I'm really tiered, can U pweese carry me?" Asked the gold Digimon.
Tai smiled. "Sure." And picked up the little lizard. "Wow, You're a lot lighter than you look." He said in surprise. Draceenimon blushed happily and fluttered her ineffective wings in a flirtatious manner.
"Harlot." Muttered Sedra under her breath.
They'd been walking for ten minutes when they entered a small clearing to find Lee waiting for them. She was perched atop a Garurumon that was Midnight blue in colour covered with snowy stripes. Its sharp gold eyes watched them suspiciously. "You sure took your time getting here." Complained the blond. "Garu-Chan and I thought we might have to send a search party!" She might have never been crying. Her voice held its usual irritated tone again.
"You must be feeling better, if you can tell us how inadequate we all are." Joked Sedra.
"Can it, Wilder. We're almost at the Ichijouji residence and I don't want your childish drivel to ruin my generous mood." She bantered. "I checked it out, and everything seems fine from the outside."
"Good. Come on guys! Its just behind those trees." Smiled Sedra.
Lee looked distastefully at Draceenimon snuggled up in Tai's arms. "Sometimes I think you should have been Miyakos Digimon."
Eeni blushed fuchsia. "What'd she mean by that?" Whispered Tai to Sedra.
"Oh, nothing. Miya tends to be a bit risqué."
"Hu?"
"Never mind!" Interrupted Draceenimon.
The group exited the forest and paused to stare up at the huge manor. Four stories high, plus the attic and what looked like a miniature tower. It was gigantic, with sprawling gardens, tennis court, swimming pool and even had a maze. The walls looked as though they has been made from seamless bone- white stone, the roof was a lovely black/blue shingle and the back terrace was decorated by large gold flecked grey/blue/white marble columns.
"Pretty impressive, hu?" Sedra grinned at the dumbfounded expressions of the Digidestined.
"It looks better from the front." Grouched Lee. "Now stop stalling, I want to talk to Mrs Ichijouji."
"Osamu lives here?" Whispered Ken in awe.
Sedra shrugged, "Yeah, but I guess that's what happens when you're one of the Kaizers top scientists."
A young, pretty lady in her early twenties came hurrying down the steps. She wore a candy pink sundress and her red hair was tied back in a neat ponytail with a shimmery pink ribbon. She looked VERY familiar.
"Lee! Sedra! You're okay!" She cried happily and hugged the two girls with rib-cracking enthusiasm. "Hey Jun." Smiled the shorter brunette hugging Mrs Ichijouji back with an equal amount of force.
"That's JUN!?" Gaped Davis, his eyes the size of dinner plates. Everyone was staring along with him.
Jun released Sedra but squeezed Lee even tighter. "Oh Lee! I'm so sorry about Takeru!" She sniffed tearfully.
The blond pushed her away. "How did you know?" She demanded coldly. "Did the Kaizer.?"
"No," Said Jun sadly. "He didn't announce it. Kari. She found Iori." Lee looked like she was going to be sick.
"Oh God. I'd hoped. It would have been kinder if he had died fighting." She whispered. "How is he?"
Jun just shook her head grimly. Then she looked around, blinking owlishly as she noticed the Digidestined for the first time. "WOW! I see that 'Project: Jelly Bean' was a success! Look! There's Izzy; and there's The Squirt! And even a Sora! And a - SHIT!!" Jun leapt back, hand over her heart, looking like she was facing death by torture.
"It's okay!" Cried Tai, truly disturbed by the sight of a terrified Jun Motomiya. "I'm not the Kaizer! Sheesh! Why does every one do that? It's really starting to tick me off!"
In his arms Draceenimon giggled. "Maybe you should get a badge." She suggested helpfully.
"Oh, sorry!" She apologised with the Motomiya trademark grin. Then her eyes fell on Matt. "Hell-o! Who might you be?" she cooed. Matt took a cautious step back and Sedra slapped her over the head.
"His name's Yamato. Sorry Junny, but you're married, remember?"
"That's right, I am too." She eyed Yamato appreciatively. "Damn!"
Then an unfamiliar voice reached their ears. "Jun? Who are you talking to?" A young man, slightly older than Jun walked into the garden. He was tall and slender, with spiky blue hair, elegant rectangular glasses and open violet eyes. He had the appearance of a usually happy person under too much stress.
"Osamu?" Squeaked Ken. Davis, who still held his hand, squeezed it reassuringly.
"Sedra, Lee, you're back." He looked at his unexpected guests. "You must be the Alternant Universe Digidestined. Welcome to my home, I am Ichijouji Osamu. Please forgive me if I seem rude but I have some pressing problems."
"Problems?" Asked Sedra seriously.
"Yes, Hikari found Ken yesterday, he was prowling the area around the destroyed base. Apparently he's been Feral since the attack, we can't seem to snap him out of it."
"Neither you or Daisuke? That is a problem."
"No," Osamu shook his head. "Daisuke hasn't turned up yet. Hikari has been searching but she can't find him anywhere."
"You don't think.?"
"I doubt it, Ken is just Feral, he's been accepting food and water. Not like."
"Iori?" The man sighed and ran a hand through his already untidy hair.
"I'm not sure what to do with him. He won't react to any kind of stimuli. He hasn't moved from the chair Jun put him in once, he just sits there, staring."
Sedra nodded grimly. "Who else has been recovered?"
"Hikari found the little ones, Jyou and Mimi arrived last night. We've lost Gerri, Suzie and Willis. That leaves Koushiro, Miyako and Daisuke unaccounted for."
"Can we help in some way?" Interrupted TK.
Osamu considered this then smiled. "Actually, young Takeru, I believe you can."
"No." Growled Lee, stepping in between Osamu and Takeru. "There has to be a better way. Who's going to explain it to Iori when he snaps out of it? You?"
"What would you have me do? Kill him?" Snapped Osamu.
"It would be kinder!" She insisted.
"Excuse me," Interrupted Iori gently. "If it was me, and it is. I'd want to make that sort of decision myself."
"FINE!!!! Destroy him if that's you want! Because it will!" Raged the blond. "But you can tell him Osamu Ichijouji, or you can!" She rounded on Iori. "You - you CHILD! This isn't about you! You don't know him; you've never met him. You don't know what he's like! Do you want to be the one to tell him that the only person he's ever loved is DEAD?? Does that please you? Do you want to be the one that has to look into his empty eyes and tell him that the person he'd bonded his soul to is gone and nothing he does can ever make him come back? Who wants to do that? No one! Who's going to have to do that? ME! I'll have to tell him. I'll be the one to watch him die inside! I'll be the one who sees the last remains of my brother wither and crumble! ME!!!"
She turned and stalked into the house, her gold braid whipping behind her. Iori was left blinking in shock.
"She's so cold now." Whispered Osamu.
Jun hugged him tightly, "It's horrible, but I can't help but be grateful that it wasn't Daisuke or Ken. How would you feel in her position? Can you really blame her?"
He sighed. "No, not really." Jun kissed him lightly on the lips.
"I have faith in your decision, do what you think is best." She gave husband one confidant smile then turned to Davis. "Well Squirt, give your big sister a hug!" She cried, throwing her arms wide.
Davis jumped back. "As if. Get real Jun!"
She burst out laughing. "Oh, he's all sweet and innocent again, like he was before your brother got his hands on him." She told her husband. "You can help us with Ken, Squirt! We need you to go and talk to him."
Poor Davis looked very confused. "What are you talking about? Ken's right here!"
"Not your Ken, silly! Our Ken." She grabbed him by the wrist and began dragging him up the steps to the house. "You coming Sedra?" She called.
The little brunette gave a malicious smirk upon recalling what had always happened after their Daisuke had 'woken' Ken all the other times. "Sure. I wouldn't want to miss this!" and hurried after the two.
Osamu looked uncertain for a moment. "Follow me then." and led them into the house.
It was full of paintings, tapestries, statues, marble floors, chandeliers and polished wooden doors. Long corridors twisted and branched off, creating a maze of wealth and fineness that was rather daunting. Ken was uncomfortably reminded of his old base; but, in a way, wasn't at all surprised at the similarities.
They followed the older Ichijouji into a sun-flooded room. Lee knelt next to a large armchair facing the window. Only the hand of the person in the chair could be seen, resting on the only visible armrest. The blond was stroking the unresponsive hand and talking quietly to the person.
She looked up when they entered and scowled. "For the last time, don't do this Ichijouji. You'll destroy him."
Osamu sighed, "Yaleea, I understand where you're coming from, but Sedra needs as many of her people as she can get."
The blond stepped back, but still looking reluctant. "I understand."
Osamu nodded and pushed Takeru forward. "Go ahead, talk to him." He said encouragingly.
"Why do you think TK can help?" asked Matt.
Osamu looked surprised at the question. "Takeru and Iori were Soul-bound. A side effect of their Dark Spores nearly all the Digidestined have encountered is that their minds and souls somehow merge with their respective partners, creating a strange sort of spiritual link; and as such Iori felt it the moment Takeru passed away. His mind is hiding because it can no longer cope with the reality that Takeru is gone. Hasn't this happened in your reality?"
All the Digidestined shook their heads, looking completely dumbstruck. "Ken is the only one in our world with a Dark spore." Said Izzy helpfully.
"Intriguing." Mused the older Ichijouji. "There appears to be many minor differences, all linking into major ones. After this we must talk. It would be interesting to find the exact moment our realities separated."
TK stared down at the person sitting in the chair.
It was Iori.
Only he looked different.
Perfect doll like curls tumbled to his shoulders in glistening brown spirals. Freckles lightly dusted across his nose. His green eyes were glassy and stared forward blankly. He looked so much like a fragile porcelain doll it was kind of scary. Like he wasn't alive at all.
"Iori, wake up." He whispered uneasily, lightly touching one of the cold hands. "It's me Takeru Takashi. You have to help us save your world. Come back to us." There was no response. He looked up helplessly.
"OUT!" Ordered Lee pointing imperiously at the door. Osamu opened his mouth to protest. "They might not want to see this. Besides, Ichijouji, this is what I like to call a 'Private Moment'." She said sarcastically and herded every one out the room. At the door she paused, looking over her shoulder, the gentle smile she gave him reminded TK strongly of someone, Who, he quite place. "I'll just be waiting outside, give us a call then you need help. You know what you have to do." Then she closed the door, leaving the two alone.
Oh God! He wiped his sweaty palm on his jeans and looked around; just to double check that there was no one else in the room.
All clear.
TK took a deep breath, gathered up his courage and slowly lent forwards, pressing his lips against his best friends.
~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~
"Um, are you sure this is a good idea?" asked Davis uncertainly, worried by the strange looks Jun and Sedra kept sending him.
"Sure it is." Smiled his older sister reassuringly. "All you have to do is just walk in there. It's that simple."
"Besides," Added Sedra, placing her arm around his shoulders in a friendly fashion. "This is Ken we're talking about. He's your best friend, it's not like he's going to hurt you."
"Well. Okay." He caved. "I guess you're right."
The two girls grinned at each other and pushed him through the open door, quickly shutting it behind him.
"Hey!" He pouted in the dark. "That's not f-" He broke off with a squeak as he heard a soft rumbling noise. It kind of sounded like Raidramon when he was pissed off.
"Uh. Ken? Is that you?" The growling noise got even louder, Davis could tell that it was coming from the far corner of the room but couldn't make out any shapes in the darkness of the room.
He took a cautious step towards the sound. "It's me Davis. uh, Daisuke? What do you call me in this reality?"
"D-Dai chan?" Kens voice floated out of the shadows, sounding lost and uncertain.
"Yep! That's my name, don't ware it out!" Davis was so busy congratulating himself on a job well done that he was caught completely by surprise when laughing, Ken picked him up and spun him around.
"H-hey! Ken! Put me down!" He squealed.
"Anything you say Dai chan." Davis was momentarily worried when he heard the smirk in Kens voice before he was flying through the darkness. He landed with a muffled squeak on something soft and springy.
A bed?
He felt the mattress indent as Ken sat down on the bed. "Hm, I've been Feral a while, I can feel it in my bones." He purred, hands already wandering. "Ready to make up for lost time?"
A wide-eyed Davis flew through the door. Both Jun and Sedra burst out laughing at his rumpled clothes and mussed hair.
"Oops!" Giggled Jun. "Sorry Squirt! I guess we should have warned you, hu?" The panting red head glared at them but didn't have the composure or the breath to form a witty retort.
"I suppose you two thought that was a terribly clever trick to play on the both of us?" Davis recognised the voice as Kens, but it was slightly different from his Kens, a little deeper.
"It was affective as well as amusing." Reasoned Sedra innocently.
A figure stepped out of the shadows; Davis felt his eyes widen. This was definitely not his Ken. It was still a Ken; there was no mistaking that. This one was older, by two or possibly three years, he still had the same hair cut only slightly shorter and ruggedly cut, helping to lose his 'girly look'. This Ken was taller too; the top of Davis's head would only reach his eyes. And speaking of eyes, Davis noticed a scar that sliced through the middle of his right eyebrow, closely missed his eye and continued a little way down. Another defining factor was that his Ken would never wear the tight black leather pants and form fitting silk shirt this one wore that reviled so much of his smooth pale skin.
Davis felt his mouth fall open, but couldn't close it. This ken was.
Well. This Ken was just HOT!
Other-Ken turned his violet eyes on Davis. "You're not my Daisuke. 'Project: Jelly Bean' perhaps? In any case I'd like to apologise for molesting you back there." He smiled Kens shy smile, "It was an honest mistake. You're about 13, that's around the same age we first slept together." He sighed wistfully lost for a moment in happy memories, then turned back to the two girls. "I assume Dai is missing if you had to use him to wake me."
Jun looked worried. "Ken, can you. is he.?"
Other-Ken ran his hand through his untidy blue hair. "Dead? No, I wouldn't be standing here if he were. Dai's alive, I can feel him in the back of my head. It's odd though, I can't feel him only that his life force hasn't been extinguished."
Sedra frowned, "This needs some serious thought. If either of you see Daisuke treat him with caution and get him checked for a Modem strait away."
The two nodded grimly.
Sedra slumped and rubbed at her eyes. "Shit. I hate my life sometimes. Being the Leader really blows." Davis could understand where she was coming from with that one. He was surprised at how old she looked, the platinum streaks in her hair almost seemed tokens of age rather than extensions of her unique character.
"Does it swallow as well?" Other-Ken asked with a grin, instantly lightening the mood.
Sedra burst out laughing transforming back into the fun-loving teenager. "You wretch!" She ruffled his hair affectionately. "Only you'd say something like that!"
"Actually Miya would have said it, but I felt compelled to fill in for her." Corrected Other-Ken.
"Well," Grinning, Sedra slung an arm around Davis. "I guess we should go get Jyou outta bed. Mimi rises with the birds but Jyou is an absolute sloth when it comes to getting up."
Other-Ken sniggered.
"Hentai!" Cried Jun cuffing the boy over the head.
Davis blinked in confusion, completely mystified by the conversation.
~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~
Gently TK pulled back and found emerald eyes blinking up at him.
"Takeru.?" Whispered Other-Iori, his soft voice husky from lack of use. TK watched in wonder as the once lifeless face animated, and in that moment he knew Lee had been right.
Other-Iori looked like an angel, his face fairly glowed, his kissable lips curving into a smile of pure happiness, bottle green eyes sparkled as they looked adoringly upon TK's face.
"Takeru, love, what happened? I remember fighting at the base, then feeling." Other-Iori's radiant features clouded for a moment. "But I must have just been dreaming. Right?" Trembling fingers reached up and brushed TK's cheek tenderly, "I mean, you're here and every thing. You're standing right in front of me." Green eyes crinkled in confusion and unshed tears glittered. "Then why can't I feel you Takeru? Don't you love me anymore?"
TK hung his head guiltily, "Iori, I. There's something I have to tell you."
Other-Iori was crying now, desperately he leapt up from his seat and pulled TK into a searing kiss. The blond melted into it, surrendering for only a few seconds before pushing the shorter boy away.
"No," He panted, trying to control hid hormones. "Iori, please, you have to listen."
"Tell me you love me?" Begged the brunette in a broken whisper his hands twisting in the fabric of TK's shirt.
TK shook his head. "I can't. I'm not your Takeru."
Other-Iori's eyes took on a wild panicked look. "What do you mean? No. No, of corse you are, you wouldn't leave me! You promised that you wouldn't! I love you Take-chan! But I can't feel you! You're not there, I can't feel you! WHY CAN'T I FEEL YOU???" He screamed, face now contorted by a mixture confusion and sorrow but most noticeably, terror.
The door burst open with such force that TK had to wonder how it didn't break when it slammed in to the wall, and Lee raced in.
"Iori! Iori, calm down!" She pulled the weeping boy into a tight hug. "It's okay, I'm here."
". Lee. Where's Take-chan?"
Lee pulled back to regard him sadly. Then slowly she reached behind herself and slipped the black ribbon from the end of her braid.
"I'm sorry Iori." She whispered not meeting his eyes.
". No." he breathed trembling staring at the black ribbon as if it were a poisonous snake. "No, Takeru. Takeru. you can't be. don't leave me here all alone."
"I'm so sorry Iori, it was my fault. I should have tried harder. it should have been me!" Lee blinked rapidly and crushed the ribbon in her clenched fist.
Other-Iori took a deep breath, wiped the tears from his cheeks and let all emotion drain from his face. "It's not your fault Lee." He said flatly. "He was in my head until the very last moment. I know that he loved you until the very end; I know that he also loved me. And I know that he's waiting for me. But don't worry, I won't make him wait for very long."
Lee studied his blank face before pulling him into another hug. "I understand. But not yet, there's still some things to do."
Other-Iori sighed, but stood rigid in her arms. "Yes, not yet. I'll wait as long as I can." He pulled back and gingerly touched the ribbon still dangling from the blonds fist. "You can keep this Lee."
She looked both surprised and worried. "No, he would have wanted you to have it."
"I don't want it." Other-Iori said flatly. "It's too much of a reminder. Put it back in your hair. it suites you." He gave a soft smile that didn't reach his eyes; they already looked dead. Then he turned to TK, their eyes met for an instant before Other-Iori looked away and quickly rushed out the room.
Confused TK turned his attention to Lee. She was statue still, staring at the black ribbon still crumpled unceremoniously in her fist.
"Lee?" He asked uncertainly touching her shoulder. ".Yaleea.?"
"Brother. Forgive me." The blond burst into tears.
~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~
Sedra was leading Davis and Other-Ken through the maze like halls of the Ichijouji manor. Jun had left them at some point taking Sedras duffle bag with her.
Some one exited a door further up the hall.
"Jyou!" Exclaimed Sedra. "What are you doing up so early?"
A very tall dude turned in surprise. "Sedra!"
Davis blinked; it was Joe.
Once again there were differences. Not only was this Joe taller, his hair was cut short and had a messy/rumpled look on top that somehow went. His clothes were rather casual, a black long sleeved shirt under a white sports jersey and a pair of jeans. Though he was older his face looked strangely boyish without his glasses. He grinned down at her (the top of the girls bushy brown hair didn't even reach his shoulders). "Mimi woke me, Hikari's back and she's got Miyako and Koushiro with her."
Sedra's face split into a grin remarkably like Tai's. "Oh really? We'd better not keep Miyako waiting then."
Jyou agreed whole-heartedly. "I'd hate to think what ideas she might be putting into Mimi's head."
Sedra giggled walking next to Jyou. "I remember what happened last time those two got together brainstorming."
Jyou pulled a sour face. "Don't remind me. I was walking funny for days and I'll never be able to look a bottle of black sambuca, or Koushiro in the face again!"
Sedra patted him on the back sympathetically. "Don't worry, I saw the tape and it was surprisingly tasteful."
Jyou groaned mournfully and covered his eyes. "Why me?" he asked no one in particular.
Davis gave Other-Ken a confused look. "What are they talking about?"
The older boy smiled indulgently and slung an arm around the red heads shoulders. "You'll find out when you're older." He answered vaguely.
Davis frowned. "You sound like my mom."
Other-Ken laughed, a strange light entering his eyes. "Is that so? Well, I'd best rectify that straight away." He grabbed Davis by the hips and pulled him against his surprisingly well-formed body; eliciting a startled squeak from the redhead before Other-Ken covered his mouth in a kiss like from movies Jun liked to watch.
Poor Davis froze, too shocked to react. When Other-Ken pulled away his smirk was eerily reminiscent of the Digimon Kaizer. "I certainly hope your mother wouldn't do that!" He said; the tone in his voice gave Davis the feeling that Other-Ken was laughing at him.
"I.That is. I, er." The boy felt his face burn.
"Ken!" Snapped Sedra, causing Davis to jump guiltily. "What on earth are you doing to Davis?"
Other-Ken feigned innocence. "Nothing."
The brunette snorted. " 'Nothing' my eye! Poor Davis is as red as a tomato." Still smirking Other-Ken just shrugged, observing his handiwork from the corner of his eye.
Sedra watched him for a moment longer, then tugged irritably on one her snowy locks. "Fine! Just don't let 'nothing' happen again. And watchout if I ever find out it progresses to 'something'!"
Other-Ken leered at the fidgeting Davis, knowing that for the time being he'd gotten away with it.
End Chapter two
A/N: Hmm. Well I can't be bothered writing more right now. ^_^ For anyone who's confused by who comes from which dimension, The Digidestined from Sedra's dimension have the original names or if I don't like the dubbed names Sedra's DD have 'Other' in front of their names. Next chapter everyone arrives at the Ichijouji Mansion. Davis is proven right about Sedra and Kari, more explanations and Other-Ken attempts to seduce Dai again!
Luv the Kaizer (Review me, dammit! _)