Digimon is the property of TOEI Animation, and Akiyoshi Hongo, we are just
borrowing their characters and certain situations to tell our story. Domino
and Dice are our little darlings, Hikari and mine's that is. We gain no
money from this.
Story by Hikari and Wanderer D
***
Night fell, and as the shadows and darkness covered everything up, a darker figure moved, jumping from building to building. He finally reached a building, and snuck into the balcony.
Trying it's best not to make noise, the figure slowly opened the crystal door that led to Sora's room.
Everyone seemed to be asleep as Dice crawled inside and stopped next to the sleeping Domino.
Biyomon, however, had heard a noise and was waiting to see what the traitor was about to do. She was surprised, though, when he kneeled and started whispering something she could barely make out, so she concentrated, trying to hear what Dice was saying.
"Domino..." Dice started. "This... this is the last time I'll be here, with you, without a fight... I just came to say goodbye. I hope we don't have to fight... but let's be realistic, will you? It's impossible. I... I want you to know..." He smiled bitterly. "That, on other circumstances I'd stayed with you. But too much has happened. I hope you'll forgive me someday, regardless who was right, and who lived to count it. Goodbye, Domino..." he choked. "Goodbye, sis." he finished, kissing her forehead softly.
He stood up and went to the balcony, and Biyomon could hear him muttering. "Sister... that's a nice fantasy, Domino."
The avian Digimon was suddenly intrigued, and put her anger behind her.
"Dice... wait," she said softly, extending one feathered limb toward the Gatomon.
Dice froze in place, just outside the door.
Biyomon moved silently to where he stood. "Dice..." She didn't know quite what to say.
"I didn't come here to fight, Biyomon." he whispered.
She frowned. "I don't want to fight, Dice..." she said, "I never did... I just want to tell you something..."
"What is it?"
She fluffed her feathers. "Dice, whatever you believe or don't... it's not a fantasy..."
He narrowed one eye.
"What she says is the truth, Dice..." she continued. "When she told Sora and I, we didn't really think it could be possible, either... but then she said things, Dice, that no Digimon could ever know..."
"She told us about where she lived, and about how she loved to play video games..." She paused. "She told us how you always picked on her, and called her a dumb nickname that made no sense... She told us about her home town, and about the grocery store where her father bought the two of you candy when you got good... report cards, I think she called them." She thought for a moment. "And about how you... when you were human... learned how to drive a car, in the parking lot of your old Elemental School... or was it Elementary?"
"Do you promise to keep a secret, Biyomon?" Dice asked, and looked away.
Biyomon blinked, then nodded. "Of course.:"
"I am a Digimon now, I don't care what I was before, even if I was something else, which I doubt. The fact is, Biyomon, I've got only one reason to fight, that's why I must ask you never to tell anyone. Even... even if I die."
She frowned.
"And what is that?" she asked.
"The reason is, Biyomon... I fell in love. And I'm loved back. She fights for Myotismon... and I fight for her."
Biyomon gasped. "What?" She widened her eyes, and ducked her head, then shooed Dice out onto the balcony, so as not to wake the sleeping Domino and Sora. One outside, she gave him an incredulous look. "Love, Dice?"
Dice walked to the edge of the balcony and jumped up on it. "I don't know why I trusted you enough to tell you... but you're her best friend, right?"
Biyomon frowned. "I am, I suppose," she said, "but I must ask, Dice... what kind of love could bloom under Myotismon's thumb?" she demanded.
Dice nodded. "Then... then at least you'll know." He then smiled as he considered her question. "The only kind that can, and will flourish even in the dark."
"I won't tell anyone, Dice, I swear it to you..." she promised,
"Goodbye Biyomon." he said standing up and preparing to jump.
"But I have one question remaining..." she insisted.
He stopped. "Which is?"
She took a step toward him. "If all you wanted was love..." She paused. "If that was all you wanted... then... why..." She gestured back inside. "Domino loved you more than anything, Dice," she said, "the way only a little sister can... and still does!" She looked at him, her blue eyes full of sadness. "If all you wanted was to be loved, then why were you not satisfied? Why did you turn to this?"
"She would do anything for you still," the bird insisted, "why is that not enough?"
"I'd be deleted for her, Biyomon. And I'd do it gladly and without regrets." Dice looked at the city. "I could do that for Domino, but then I'd have a regret." Dice looked at the small bird. "It's a different kind of love, Biyomon. Maybe you, of all of us can comprehend that better." He blinked, stepped down and hugged her.
He then stepped back. "I must go now. Another might see me and come check what I was doing."
"Dice," Biyomon said, almost hating to stop him again.
She gave him a small smile. "I hope that it does not come to mortal combat," she said, "for then it would leave all of us with a regret..." She shook her head. "I don't know that I could ever bring myself to really hurt you..." She glanced inside. "And I know for a fact that Domino never could..."
"Farewell, Biyomon." He smiled bitterly. "Next time..." He couldn't finish, and jumped off.
"I don't know that myself, Biyomon. But protect them both... And don't doubt. I won't."
And with that, he was gone.
"Good luck, Dice," she said to the empty air before her as she headed back inside. "I hope that... whatever road you end up taking, it crosses paths with ours again... somewhere... someday... and we won't have to fight anymore..."
***
"Dice, you'll have to go south of the city," Demidevimon announced. "Master Myotismon has decided that that is the best course of action, since that's the last area to cover. Wizardmon is already there, along with Gatomon, but you are to work separately in order to cover as much ground as possible."
Dice growled in response. "Did you repeat all that from memory? I don't think you've got the brains to plan ahead, Demidevimon."
"Why you..." Devimon growled. "I should..." He stopped talking when he noticed Dice clenching his paws in anger.
Dice just turned around and left. When he was sure Dice was out of sight, he let out a sigh. That had been close! He had been sure Dice was about to slice him into pieces. Demidevimon almost fell when he heard a small laugh behind him.
"Master Myotismon!" He said in surprise. "Why are you laughing?"
Myotismon smiled evilly. "He's turning into one of us, Demidevimon, can't you feel it?"
Demidevimon only managed to look confused as Myotismon left, laughing.
***
The Digidestined were gathered in the park, discussing what to do about their last fight with Dice. They had been left a bit shaken with Dice's last comments... they were completely aware that if they did fight him... as he said, some might not go home.
"I still don't understand it... after we gave him a second chance... after we opened up our hearts to him... why...?" Tai muttered gloomily.
He then groggily ran his hands down his face. He hadn't slept much the last night... he'd had too much on his mind. Why had Dice betrayed them like that? Why had he thought that they had destroyed his friends? As for the murders, the Digidestined were innocent... but it was true that they had had a part in the destruction of Myotismon's henchmen before... but why would Dice have made such a big deal about that?
"It's like I told you before... once a villain always a villain..." Mimi announced.
Domino snapped her head up, glaring at Mimi. "Dice isn't a villain!"
"But he tried to kill us..." Argued little T.K.
"He accused us of killing Pumpkinmon and Gotsumon! Whoever they are!" Joe added angrily. He didn't like being accused of anything at all.
Sora nodded and opened her mouth. "He-"
She was interrupted by Biyomon, who had jumped to her feet, scowling angrily. "It was a mistake..." Everyone looked at her oddly, and she stammered a little. "It's a misunderstanding, I'm sure of it... Dice cares about us... or Domino at least. He isn't our enemy, Myotismon is!"
Patamon fluttered up next to her. "But he's *working* for Myotismon!"
"That doesn't matter." She continued. "He may be fighting for Myotismon's cause... but I don't think he really believes in it..." She paused awkwardly. "I think he's just... confused... and looking for a reason to go on... and maybe fighting was all he could find to go on for..."
Domino squinted at the bird Digimon. Why was she defending Dice? Domino had been sure that, after what had happened, she would be the only one who wasn't looking for any excuse to bring Dice to his knees and destroy him... why did Biyomon remain loyal?
As the group continued to bicker, Gabumon's round eyes strayed to their surroundings. The park was relatively empty that morning, which always worked well in their favor. The fewer people the Digimon had to hide from, the more comfortable they were. Tho they never would have admitted it to the kids, the Digimon really hated the disguises they were often forced to wear to keep out of sight of the general public.
He squinted as something caught his eye. What was that?
A dark shape was approaching from the street nearby. It looked awfully familiar... with large triangular ears and a long black tail... yes, there was no mistaking it--it was--
Gabumon quickly pointed to the street. "Nee, nee, you guys! Look over there!"
The Digidestined momentarily set aside their arguing to look where Gabumon was pointing. Domino's ears stood up straight as she recognized the figure in the not-too-far distance.
"Dice...?" she whispered.
"Hey! What's he doing?!" Tai asked.
They all gasped as the black Gatomon viciously shoved aside a young boy on the sidewalk, pitching the youth to his knees as he brushed past, his eyes cold and oblivious...
***
Dice walked down the street, holding the crest in his paw. He hadn't even seen it so much as a glint in the approximation of a glow, which would indicate the presence of the last Digidestined. Life sucked.
In his opinion, the easiest thing to do would be to blow them all up into pieces. Why the hell should they bother to find one person when they could just get rid of the whole lot?
"Damn it, Myotismon, let's kill them all." He muttered darkly. "That'll be much easier."
People stared at him, but he just ignored them. Sure, some of the others were being cautious to avoid getting detected by the Digidestined, but he couldn't care less. Heck, let them come. He would make sure to leave a lasting impression on those backstabbing, good for nothing cretins.
"Hey, mom! Look at that! A black cat! He's so cute!" A young boy shouted, pulling his mother towards Dice.
"Shingo, we'll be late for your sister's play..." His mother muttered.
"Hey, kitty, kitty," Shingo said softly as he extended his hand towards Dice.
The Black Gatomon glared at the kid, and shoved him aside, almost throwing him into the air if his mother hadn't been holding his hand. "GET AWAY FROM ME HUMAN!" he shouted.
Everyone in the park looked at him, as the boy's mother shouted and pulled his son. Soon, they were all running away.
"Damn, now it'll be harder to find that stupid kid." Dice muttered.
Domino got to her feet. She couldn't take it anymore. This wasn't Dice... not the Dice she knew... something had happened to change him... something serious... something she would never forgive. If she had to tear Myotismon apart with her own claws, she would, if only to avenge Dice's corruption.
"Domino, matte! what are you--?" Matt started.
Domino whirled and gave the children a cold glare.
"Stay here, you guys... this time, he's mine. Don't get involved, he's totally ruthless now... I don't want any of you getting hurt." She said darkly.
Tai, however wouldn't let her. "Datte--Domino! we can't just--"
The leader silenced at the look in Domino's eyes. She was usually such a chipper and kind being... but there were times when she got such a look in her bright green eyes that Taichi felt a twinge of fear. He knew she was strong, he knew that she probably could have hurt any of them, and badly, if she wanted to, and was exceedingly grateful to her for her help...but she was so damn stubborn!!
Tai sighed, taking his decision. "Souka, Domino... just... just be careful, okay?"
She gave Taichi a small smile, and then turned to look to where Dice was stalking down the street, her eyes icy again.
This was going to be resolved...
...right now...
Domino sprinted to where the black Gatomon was, never once fearing for her safety.
"Dice!" she called, her voice betraying no anger, no fear... "Dice-- waitasecond..."
"I want to talk to you..."
Dice seemed to glow with contained energy. "Get lost." He said, hate pouring out of every word.
Domino balked. What was this? There was such a cold energy from him now... it was almost like...
--no... oh, please no...
"Dice," she begged, her voice suddenly plaintive, "please, just wait a minute..."
She was not going to let this happen, she was not going to lose him, not like this. He was being drawn deeper into Myotismon's web, getting tangled in the deadly threads of the evil master's web... she was losing him... losing him to the darkness in his own heart...
"DARK CLAW!" Dice shouted, using his ghost technique. Domino was slammed against a tree before she could react.
Dice's eyes were glowing red, and his fangs were visible in his obvious snarl.
She coughed once, as she slid to the ground, but she did not retaliate.
"What the hell was that for, Dice?" she demanded, tho there was no anger in her voice. "All I want to do is talk to you... it's rude to attack before you know the opponent's intentions... not very gentlemanly of you..."
"I TOLD YOU I DIDN'T WANT TO SEE YOU AGAIN!" Dice shouted.
Now she was angry.
"I don't believe that, Dice," she hissed. "I don't believe that for a second... I think that there is nothing you want more than for things to be the way they were before!"
He started glowing more forcibly. "IF YOU'RE GOING TO STAY THERE AND GET HIT, FINE WITH ME!"
"If you want to fight, then fine"--she bared her teeth--"bring it on... but I have no desire to hurt you, I really don't..."
Dice shot forward, trying to slice her. Only her reflexes saved her as she crouched. She felt the air shift above her head, and a second later the tree slid in half.
A greenish glow erupted around Domino as she drew upon the elemental energy within her. she didn't want to hurt him, but she feared it was the only way to bring him to his senses. "That does it, Dice," she growled. "If it takes a bruising to get you to listen to me, so be it..."
She leapt backward and dove into a handspring, throwing her forepaws out as she sailed thru the air.
"Ice Spears!"
There was a flash of blue as a dozen foot-long darts of ice formed around her like spines on a porcupine. She twisted her neck and snapped her head around, sending the darts flying toward Dice. He twisted gracefully out of the way of all of them...
...save one...
...that drew blood along his right arm.
"I don't want to hurt you, Dice... I really don't..." she said again. "Won't you please listen to me?"
Dice ignored the small slice. "You think I care."
"I do," she said. "I do think you care... somewhere, deep down, I think you care... what are you doing, Dice? Who are you trying to please?" She paused, searching his face. "Who are you trying to impress with this unnecessary brutality?"
Dice snarled. "That's your mistake. I don't." He faded out only to appear in front of Domino, at the same time slamming his fist into her stomach, much like he had done to Tai. Domino coughed blood.
She sank to her knees, holding her stomach with one paw. God, it hurt! but then... she wasn't going to let him know that. She spat blood out of her mouth and ran the back of her hand across her chin, glaring at the streak of blood on her fur.
"What's happened to you, Dice?" she asked softly, getting shakily back to her feet. "This isn't the Dice I know... this isn't the Dice I grew up with, the Dice I grew to love like a brother.... why, Dice? Why have you become this? Has Myotismon offered you some great reward? something worth all this trouble?"
"When I cared I was hurt. I won't fall into the same pattern again." He slowly raised his paw... and brought it down. Domino didn't feel it for a moment, then she felt a little blood coming out of her cheek. "Will you stay there at my mercy?" Dice asked coldly.
"You are stronger than me, Dice... I know that, I'm not as dumb as you think I am..." she said, "but then, you aren't as smart as you think."
He seemed startled by her words.
"Do you really think Myotismon is going to do anything for you?" she asked coldly. "Do you think that that poor Nosferatu of a Digimon is going to thank you for your efforts? Praise you for your hard work? Jeez, Dice, how can you be so blind?" She stroked the scratch on her cheek.
"How can you think that this is going to benefit you?" She took a step forward, which surprised him. Why wasn't she running? Why didn't she turn and flee while he was giving her the chance? He knew his answer, though, she was too damn stubborn to let him get away with it.
"I know you've been hurt, Dice... don't you think I know that? I know you've lost people close to you, and I know it hurts like hell and you just want to die to make it stop... but this isn't the answer!" she shook her head. "maybe I can't relate to the pain you've felt, but I can certainly sympathize, if you'd only let me!"
She gave him a sad look.
"You frighten me, Dice..." she admitted, "and not because of your strength... but because of your distance... you and I were so close once... what happened?"
"I don't want to lose you the way you lost Pumpkinmon and Gotsumon..." Mentioning them seemed a bad idea, as she noticed him frown.
Dice's eyes became even colder. He opened his claws and shoved them into her chest.
His eyes glinted.
Domino felt like screaming. this was like something out of a terrible horror movie. She was so close to him, and yet, he was a million miles away. She had, at once time, feared nothing while he was by her side... and now nothing frightened her more than standing beside him. There was a time when she would have turned to him for anything, gone to him with any concern, and told him of any trouble she faced... and now, it seemed that he was the cause of all of the above. Why couldn't she get thru to him? She shut her eyes, waiting for him to attack.
Only the points had gone through her fur. "Let me go." he said. "Fist..."
"Fine, Dice..." she said, resolved, "If this is what you want... if this will ease your pain... then kill me." she spread her arms to her sides. "Go on..."
"... of ..." He looked into her eyes, which were understanding what was happening, yet not believing what she was hearing. "...The Beast King."
Time seemed to stop for the Digidestined. Biyomon couldn't believe her eyes as Domino seemed to fly through the air, spilling blood on the ground, to land in a crumpled heap next to them. She was still alive... but barely.
Tai couldn't stand it anymore. he was going to kill her - and she was going to LET him!! He darted forward, ignoring the cries of the other Digidestined. He wouldn't let her play Martyr.
"Stop it!" he screamed, racing to the fallen Gatomon's side. He glared over his shoulder at Dice. "What the hell are you doing, Dice?" He demanded as the other destined and their Digimon came to his side.
The Digimon quickly Digivolved to their champion levels, ignoring the fact that there were people in the park, who stood by, gaping at the impossible events unfolding before them.
"Nova Blast!"
"Howling Blaster!"
Dice easily dodged the attacks, almost laughing at how pathetic they seemed
"Do you really want to kill her, Dice?" Birdramon asked, swooping down to land in front of the black Gatomon before any of the others could gear up an attack. "Is that what you want? Jeez, you fool, all she wanted was to talk to you! Where do you get the gall to just attack her when you know she won't hurt you in retaliation? that's pretty low of you..."
Dice snarled. "I told all of you to get out of the way!" he shouted. Then, impossibly, a Nova Blast hit him on the back, surprising him, and making him easy target for a few other attacks.
"Harpoon Torpedo!"
"Needle Spray!!"
"No--wait!" Domino croaked, trying to stand and feeling her body just surrender, pitching her back to the ground. "Please--don't--" she dropped her head onto the ground, too weak to keep her eyes on the battle. "Please... don't kill him..."
Birdramon whirled at the sound of Domino's cry. Why? Why did she remain faithful to her old friend... even after his wicked betrayal? It was almost... it was almost... human... foolishly human... but human nonetheless. She looked back to Dice, who stumbled, off-balance from the Nova Blast, and gasped as he staggered and fell to the ground as the subsequent attacks sent him reeling. The bird Digimon turned to watch as Angemon and Kabuterimon prepared to hit the Gatomon again while they had the chance.
"No!" Birdramon cried, spreading her majestic wings in front of Dice. "Stop!" she shouted, anger in her usually calm voice. "Stop it! You can't-- !!"
The Digimon short-stopped their attacks, bewildered, and Tai lifted his head to stare at Birdramon.
"Birdramon...?" he whispered. "nanio shimasu ka...?"
Dice looked up. It was his chance to kill them all, and end this stupid fight. But... he could see the back of Birdramon as she protected him. Then, he remembered what she had promised, and she hadn't betrayed his trust.
He stood up and glared at everyone. Then, to the surprise of the Digidestined, he ricocheted of Birdramon's back and jumped up a nearby building, disappearing from sight.
He had thrown Birdramon slightly off-balance with his jump, but she had remained firm in front of him, much to the surprise of everyone.
Birdramon did not flinch at the pressure of Dice's leap, rather she remained standing, her wings outspread before the spot where he had fallen. Once she was sure he was gone, she dropped her wings and seemed to deflate, slowly devolving back to Biyomon. Sora gaped at her Digimon in bewilderment.
"Biyomon...?" she asked. "Why did you... why...?"
Tai got to his feet, anger blazing in his eyes. "What the hell did you think you were doing, Biyomon?" he demanded coldly. "You let Dice get away!!"
Biyomon looked at the ground, and then her eyes moved to Domino's battered body. "And what do you think would have happened to Domino if you had killed Dice?" she asked, and the children paused in thought. "It didn't matter to her that he had betrayed her... she was still willing to give him another chance..."
"But he was going to kill her!" TK cried.
Biyomon shook her head. "And she would have laid down and died before allowing his blood to stain our hands..." she said. "If Dice gets killed because of his alliances with Myotismon, Domino will be crushed... but if he gets killed by our hands..." the Digimon paused. "If he is killed by us... or by her... then domino, too, will die..."
Joe looked at everyone, before addressing Biyomon. "Listen, Biyomon, Dice made his choice. He told us he would kill us if we met again, and he proved it! He almost killed Domino without even stopping to consider! We can't let him kill us just because we feel sorry for him!"
"Biyomon..." Sora said softly, fearing her Digimon had an insight into this situation that everyone else lacked.
"Datte, Biyomon!!" Joe cried. "We had the chance to be rid of Dice, and you defended him!!"
"That's kinda like treason..." Tentomon said facetiously.
Biyomon shook her head. "No... it wasn't betrayal... it was a pre-emptive strike against betrayal on all of our parts..."
Domino lifted her head, with a little effort. "No, Joe," she argued, "He... he..." she stopped. It almost hurt too much to say it. "Myotismon has taken control of his mind... the Dice I know would never have done this..."
She shuddered, as if the very act of remaining conscious was utterly exhausting. "We... we have to bring him back..."
Joe shifted his glasses. He knew why Domino would defend Dice, but Biyomon, however... "What do you mean betrayal in all our parts, Biyomon?" he asked.
The bird Digimon frowned. "I..."
Domino looked at her
Biyomon's features hardened. "Dice is one of us, Joe," she insisted. "Even if he's strayed... he was one of us long before he became one of Myotismon's own... he was Domino's best friend... practically her brother... they made a promise long ago to always be there for each other..." she looked away. "We would not only be betraying our word to Dice that we don't kill Digimon unless we absolutely have to..." she hesitated. "But we would be breaking the very pact Domino made with him..."
"How can you always be there for someone who is dead?" she said suddenly. "...and in betraying that pact... we betray Domino..." Biyomon scowled "...and in betraying her, we betray ourselves..."
Biyomon's eyes turned cold. "He cares about her, still... I'm sure he does... somewhere, deep down beneath all of this hatred... she is still his little sister..."
Everyone looked a little confused by this remark, and Biyomon quickly continued.
"Besides... he isn't acting of his own will... I think that there is something... or someone... who is being held over his head..."
Tai blinked. "Whaddya mean by that?" he asked, and she floundered.
"Oh... never mind," she said, and fidgeted uneasily.
Tai sighed and looked at the rest of the Digidestined, then kneeled next to Domino.
"Domino, I think you should tell us exactly what is happening between you and Dice." He said.
Domino could do nothing but nod.
Above them, hidden in the branches of a nearby tree, Wizardmon leaned forward to hear as Domino started her story.
Story by Hikari and Wanderer D
***
Night fell, and as the shadows and darkness covered everything up, a darker figure moved, jumping from building to building. He finally reached a building, and snuck into the balcony.
Trying it's best not to make noise, the figure slowly opened the crystal door that led to Sora's room.
Everyone seemed to be asleep as Dice crawled inside and stopped next to the sleeping Domino.
Biyomon, however, had heard a noise and was waiting to see what the traitor was about to do. She was surprised, though, when he kneeled and started whispering something she could barely make out, so she concentrated, trying to hear what Dice was saying.
"Domino..." Dice started. "This... this is the last time I'll be here, with you, without a fight... I just came to say goodbye. I hope we don't have to fight... but let's be realistic, will you? It's impossible. I... I want you to know..." He smiled bitterly. "That, on other circumstances I'd stayed with you. But too much has happened. I hope you'll forgive me someday, regardless who was right, and who lived to count it. Goodbye, Domino..." he choked. "Goodbye, sis." he finished, kissing her forehead softly.
He stood up and went to the balcony, and Biyomon could hear him muttering. "Sister... that's a nice fantasy, Domino."
The avian Digimon was suddenly intrigued, and put her anger behind her.
"Dice... wait," she said softly, extending one feathered limb toward the Gatomon.
Dice froze in place, just outside the door.
Biyomon moved silently to where he stood. "Dice..." She didn't know quite what to say.
"I didn't come here to fight, Biyomon." he whispered.
She frowned. "I don't want to fight, Dice..." she said, "I never did... I just want to tell you something..."
"What is it?"
She fluffed her feathers. "Dice, whatever you believe or don't... it's not a fantasy..."
He narrowed one eye.
"What she says is the truth, Dice..." she continued. "When she told Sora and I, we didn't really think it could be possible, either... but then she said things, Dice, that no Digimon could ever know..."
"She told us about where she lived, and about how she loved to play video games..." She paused. "She told us how you always picked on her, and called her a dumb nickname that made no sense... She told us about her home town, and about the grocery store where her father bought the two of you candy when you got good... report cards, I think she called them." She thought for a moment. "And about how you... when you were human... learned how to drive a car, in the parking lot of your old Elemental School... or was it Elementary?"
"Do you promise to keep a secret, Biyomon?" Dice asked, and looked away.
Biyomon blinked, then nodded. "Of course.:"
"I am a Digimon now, I don't care what I was before, even if I was something else, which I doubt. The fact is, Biyomon, I've got only one reason to fight, that's why I must ask you never to tell anyone. Even... even if I die."
She frowned.
"And what is that?" she asked.
"The reason is, Biyomon... I fell in love. And I'm loved back. She fights for Myotismon... and I fight for her."
Biyomon gasped. "What?" She widened her eyes, and ducked her head, then shooed Dice out onto the balcony, so as not to wake the sleeping Domino and Sora. One outside, she gave him an incredulous look. "Love, Dice?"
Dice walked to the edge of the balcony and jumped up on it. "I don't know why I trusted you enough to tell you... but you're her best friend, right?"
Biyomon frowned. "I am, I suppose," she said, "but I must ask, Dice... what kind of love could bloom under Myotismon's thumb?" she demanded.
Dice nodded. "Then... then at least you'll know." He then smiled as he considered her question. "The only kind that can, and will flourish even in the dark."
"I won't tell anyone, Dice, I swear it to you..." she promised,
"Goodbye Biyomon." he said standing up and preparing to jump.
"But I have one question remaining..." she insisted.
He stopped. "Which is?"
She took a step toward him. "If all you wanted was love..." She paused. "If that was all you wanted... then... why..." She gestured back inside. "Domino loved you more than anything, Dice," she said, "the way only a little sister can... and still does!" She looked at him, her blue eyes full of sadness. "If all you wanted was to be loved, then why were you not satisfied? Why did you turn to this?"
"She would do anything for you still," the bird insisted, "why is that not enough?"
"I'd be deleted for her, Biyomon. And I'd do it gladly and without regrets." Dice looked at the city. "I could do that for Domino, but then I'd have a regret." Dice looked at the small bird. "It's a different kind of love, Biyomon. Maybe you, of all of us can comprehend that better." He blinked, stepped down and hugged her.
He then stepped back. "I must go now. Another might see me and come check what I was doing."
"Dice," Biyomon said, almost hating to stop him again.
She gave him a small smile. "I hope that it does not come to mortal combat," she said, "for then it would leave all of us with a regret..." She shook her head. "I don't know that I could ever bring myself to really hurt you..." She glanced inside. "And I know for a fact that Domino never could..."
"Farewell, Biyomon." He smiled bitterly. "Next time..." He couldn't finish, and jumped off.
"I don't know that myself, Biyomon. But protect them both... And don't doubt. I won't."
And with that, he was gone.
"Good luck, Dice," she said to the empty air before her as she headed back inside. "I hope that... whatever road you end up taking, it crosses paths with ours again... somewhere... someday... and we won't have to fight anymore..."
***
"Dice, you'll have to go south of the city," Demidevimon announced. "Master Myotismon has decided that that is the best course of action, since that's the last area to cover. Wizardmon is already there, along with Gatomon, but you are to work separately in order to cover as much ground as possible."
Dice growled in response. "Did you repeat all that from memory? I don't think you've got the brains to plan ahead, Demidevimon."
"Why you..." Devimon growled. "I should..." He stopped talking when he noticed Dice clenching his paws in anger.
Dice just turned around and left. When he was sure Dice was out of sight, he let out a sigh. That had been close! He had been sure Dice was about to slice him into pieces. Demidevimon almost fell when he heard a small laugh behind him.
"Master Myotismon!" He said in surprise. "Why are you laughing?"
Myotismon smiled evilly. "He's turning into one of us, Demidevimon, can't you feel it?"
Demidevimon only managed to look confused as Myotismon left, laughing.
***
The Digidestined were gathered in the park, discussing what to do about their last fight with Dice. They had been left a bit shaken with Dice's last comments... they were completely aware that if they did fight him... as he said, some might not go home.
"I still don't understand it... after we gave him a second chance... after we opened up our hearts to him... why...?" Tai muttered gloomily.
He then groggily ran his hands down his face. He hadn't slept much the last night... he'd had too much on his mind. Why had Dice betrayed them like that? Why had he thought that they had destroyed his friends? As for the murders, the Digidestined were innocent... but it was true that they had had a part in the destruction of Myotismon's henchmen before... but why would Dice have made such a big deal about that?
"It's like I told you before... once a villain always a villain..." Mimi announced.
Domino snapped her head up, glaring at Mimi. "Dice isn't a villain!"
"But he tried to kill us..." Argued little T.K.
"He accused us of killing Pumpkinmon and Gotsumon! Whoever they are!" Joe added angrily. He didn't like being accused of anything at all.
Sora nodded and opened her mouth. "He-"
She was interrupted by Biyomon, who had jumped to her feet, scowling angrily. "It was a mistake..." Everyone looked at her oddly, and she stammered a little. "It's a misunderstanding, I'm sure of it... Dice cares about us... or Domino at least. He isn't our enemy, Myotismon is!"
Patamon fluttered up next to her. "But he's *working* for Myotismon!"
"That doesn't matter." She continued. "He may be fighting for Myotismon's cause... but I don't think he really believes in it..." She paused awkwardly. "I think he's just... confused... and looking for a reason to go on... and maybe fighting was all he could find to go on for..."
Domino squinted at the bird Digimon. Why was she defending Dice? Domino had been sure that, after what had happened, she would be the only one who wasn't looking for any excuse to bring Dice to his knees and destroy him... why did Biyomon remain loyal?
As the group continued to bicker, Gabumon's round eyes strayed to their surroundings. The park was relatively empty that morning, which always worked well in their favor. The fewer people the Digimon had to hide from, the more comfortable they were. Tho they never would have admitted it to the kids, the Digimon really hated the disguises they were often forced to wear to keep out of sight of the general public.
He squinted as something caught his eye. What was that?
A dark shape was approaching from the street nearby. It looked awfully familiar... with large triangular ears and a long black tail... yes, there was no mistaking it--it was--
Gabumon quickly pointed to the street. "Nee, nee, you guys! Look over there!"
The Digidestined momentarily set aside their arguing to look where Gabumon was pointing. Domino's ears stood up straight as she recognized the figure in the not-too-far distance.
"Dice...?" she whispered.
"Hey! What's he doing?!" Tai asked.
They all gasped as the black Gatomon viciously shoved aside a young boy on the sidewalk, pitching the youth to his knees as he brushed past, his eyes cold and oblivious...
***
Dice walked down the street, holding the crest in his paw. He hadn't even seen it so much as a glint in the approximation of a glow, which would indicate the presence of the last Digidestined. Life sucked.
In his opinion, the easiest thing to do would be to blow them all up into pieces. Why the hell should they bother to find one person when they could just get rid of the whole lot?
"Damn it, Myotismon, let's kill them all." He muttered darkly. "That'll be much easier."
People stared at him, but he just ignored them. Sure, some of the others were being cautious to avoid getting detected by the Digidestined, but he couldn't care less. Heck, let them come. He would make sure to leave a lasting impression on those backstabbing, good for nothing cretins.
"Hey, mom! Look at that! A black cat! He's so cute!" A young boy shouted, pulling his mother towards Dice.
"Shingo, we'll be late for your sister's play..." His mother muttered.
"Hey, kitty, kitty," Shingo said softly as he extended his hand towards Dice.
The Black Gatomon glared at the kid, and shoved him aside, almost throwing him into the air if his mother hadn't been holding his hand. "GET AWAY FROM ME HUMAN!" he shouted.
Everyone in the park looked at him, as the boy's mother shouted and pulled his son. Soon, they were all running away.
"Damn, now it'll be harder to find that stupid kid." Dice muttered.
Domino got to her feet. She couldn't take it anymore. This wasn't Dice... not the Dice she knew... something had happened to change him... something serious... something she would never forgive. If she had to tear Myotismon apart with her own claws, she would, if only to avenge Dice's corruption.
"Domino, matte! what are you--?" Matt started.
Domino whirled and gave the children a cold glare.
"Stay here, you guys... this time, he's mine. Don't get involved, he's totally ruthless now... I don't want any of you getting hurt." She said darkly.
Tai, however wouldn't let her. "Datte--Domino! we can't just--"
The leader silenced at the look in Domino's eyes. She was usually such a chipper and kind being... but there were times when she got such a look in her bright green eyes that Taichi felt a twinge of fear. He knew she was strong, he knew that she probably could have hurt any of them, and badly, if she wanted to, and was exceedingly grateful to her for her help...but she was so damn stubborn!!
Tai sighed, taking his decision. "Souka, Domino... just... just be careful, okay?"
She gave Taichi a small smile, and then turned to look to where Dice was stalking down the street, her eyes icy again.
This was going to be resolved...
...right now...
Domino sprinted to where the black Gatomon was, never once fearing for her safety.
"Dice!" she called, her voice betraying no anger, no fear... "Dice-- waitasecond..."
"I want to talk to you..."
Dice seemed to glow with contained energy. "Get lost." He said, hate pouring out of every word.
Domino balked. What was this? There was such a cold energy from him now... it was almost like...
--no... oh, please no...
"Dice," she begged, her voice suddenly plaintive, "please, just wait a minute..."
She was not going to let this happen, she was not going to lose him, not like this. He was being drawn deeper into Myotismon's web, getting tangled in the deadly threads of the evil master's web... she was losing him... losing him to the darkness in his own heart...
"DARK CLAW!" Dice shouted, using his ghost technique. Domino was slammed against a tree before she could react.
Dice's eyes were glowing red, and his fangs were visible in his obvious snarl.
She coughed once, as she slid to the ground, but she did not retaliate.
"What the hell was that for, Dice?" she demanded, tho there was no anger in her voice. "All I want to do is talk to you... it's rude to attack before you know the opponent's intentions... not very gentlemanly of you..."
"I TOLD YOU I DIDN'T WANT TO SEE YOU AGAIN!" Dice shouted.
Now she was angry.
"I don't believe that, Dice," she hissed. "I don't believe that for a second... I think that there is nothing you want more than for things to be the way they were before!"
He started glowing more forcibly. "IF YOU'RE GOING TO STAY THERE AND GET HIT, FINE WITH ME!"
"If you want to fight, then fine"--she bared her teeth--"bring it on... but I have no desire to hurt you, I really don't..."
Dice shot forward, trying to slice her. Only her reflexes saved her as she crouched. She felt the air shift above her head, and a second later the tree slid in half.
A greenish glow erupted around Domino as she drew upon the elemental energy within her. she didn't want to hurt him, but she feared it was the only way to bring him to his senses. "That does it, Dice," she growled. "If it takes a bruising to get you to listen to me, so be it..."
She leapt backward and dove into a handspring, throwing her forepaws out as she sailed thru the air.
"Ice Spears!"
There was a flash of blue as a dozen foot-long darts of ice formed around her like spines on a porcupine. She twisted her neck and snapped her head around, sending the darts flying toward Dice. He twisted gracefully out of the way of all of them...
...save one...
...that drew blood along his right arm.
"I don't want to hurt you, Dice... I really don't..." she said again. "Won't you please listen to me?"
Dice ignored the small slice. "You think I care."
"I do," she said. "I do think you care... somewhere, deep down, I think you care... what are you doing, Dice? Who are you trying to please?" She paused, searching his face. "Who are you trying to impress with this unnecessary brutality?"
Dice snarled. "That's your mistake. I don't." He faded out only to appear in front of Domino, at the same time slamming his fist into her stomach, much like he had done to Tai. Domino coughed blood.
She sank to her knees, holding her stomach with one paw. God, it hurt! but then... she wasn't going to let him know that. She spat blood out of her mouth and ran the back of her hand across her chin, glaring at the streak of blood on her fur.
"What's happened to you, Dice?" she asked softly, getting shakily back to her feet. "This isn't the Dice I know... this isn't the Dice I grew up with, the Dice I grew to love like a brother.... why, Dice? Why have you become this? Has Myotismon offered you some great reward? something worth all this trouble?"
"When I cared I was hurt. I won't fall into the same pattern again." He slowly raised his paw... and brought it down. Domino didn't feel it for a moment, then she felt a little blood coming out of her cheek. "Will you stay there at my mercy?" Dice asked coldly.
"You are stronger than me, Dice... I know that, I'm not as dumb as you think I am..." she said, "but then, you aren't as smart as you think."
He seemed startled by her words.
"Do you really think Myotismon is going to do anything for you?" she asked coldly. "Do you think that that poor Nosferatu of a Digimon is going to thank you for your efforts? Praise you for your hard work? Jeez, Dice, how can you be so blind?" She stroked the scratch on her cheek.
"How can you think that this is going to benefit you?" She took a step forward, which surprised him. Why wasn't she running? Why didn't she turn and flee while he was giving her the chance? He knew his answer, though, she was too damn stubborn to let him get away with it.
"I know you've been hurt, Dice... don't you think I know that? I know you've lost people close to you, and I know it hurts like hell and you just want to die to make it stop... but this isn't the answer!" she shook her head. "maybe I can't relate to the pain you've felt, but I can certainly sympathize, if you'd only let me!"
She gave him a sad look.
"You frighten me, Dice..." she admitted, "and not because of your strength... but because of your distance... you and I were so close once... what happened?"
"I don't want to lose you the way you lost Pumpkinmon and Gotsumon..." Mentioning them seemed a bad idea, as she noticed him frown.
Dice's eyes became even colder. He opened his claws and shoved them into her chest.
His eyes glinted.
Domino felt like screaming. this was like something out of a terrible horror movie. She was so close to him, and yet, he was a million miles away. She had, at once time, feared nothing while he was by her side... and now nothing frightened her more than standing beside him. There was a time when she would have turned to him for anything, gone to him with any concern, and told him of any trouble she faced... and now, it seemed that he was the cause of all of the above. Why couldn't she get thru to him? She shut her eyes, waiting for him to attack.
Only the points had gone through her fur. "Let me go." he said. "Fist..."
"Fine, Dice..." she said, resolved, "If this is what you want... if this will ease your pain... then kill me." she spread her arms to her sides. "Go on..."
"... of ..." He looked into her eyes, which were understanding what was happening, yet not believing what she was hearing. "...The Beast King."
Time seemed to stop for the Digidestined. Biyomon couldn't believe her eyes as Domino seemed to fly through the air, spilling blood on the ground, to land in a crumpled heap next to them. She was still alive... but barely.
Tai couldn't stand it anymore. he was going to kill her - and she was going to LET him!! He darted forward, ignoring the cries of the other Digidestined. He wouldn't let her play Martyr.
"Stop it!" he screamed, racing to the fallen Gatomon's side. He glared over his shoulder at Dice. "What the hell are you doing, Dice?" He demanded as the other destined and their Digimon came to his side.
The Digimon quickly Digivolved to their champion levels, ignoring the fact that there were people in the park, who stood by, gaping at the impossible events unfolding before them.
"Nova Blast!"
"Howling Blaster!"
Dice easily dodged the attacks, almost laughing at how pathetic they seemed
"Do you really want to kill her, Dice?" Birdramon asked, swooping down to land in front of the black Gatomon before any of the others could gear up an attack. "Is that what you want? Jeez, you fool, all she wanted was to talk to you! Where do you get the gall to just attack her when you know she won't hurt you in retaliation? that's pretty low of you..."
Dice snarled. "I told all of you to get out of the way!" he shouted. Then, impossibly, a Nova Blast hit him on the back, surprising him, and making him easy target for a few other attacks.
"Harpoon Torpedo!"
"Needle Spray!!"
"No--wait!" Domino croaked, trying to stand and feeling her body just surrender, pitching her back to the ground. "Please--don't--" she dropped her head onto the ground, too weak to keep her eyes on the battle. "Please... don't kill him..."
Birdramon whirled at the sound of Domino's cry. Why? Why did she remain faithful to her old friend... even after his wicked betrayal? It was almost... it was almost... human... foolishly human... but human nonetheless. She looked back to Dice, who stumbled, off-balance from the Nova Blast, and gasped as he staggered and fell to the ground as the subsequent attacks sent him reeling. The bird Digimon turned to watch as Angemon and Kabuterimon prepared to hit the Gatomon again while they had the chance.
"No!" Birdramon cried, spreading her majestic wings in front of Dice. "Stop!" she shouted, anger in her usually calm voice. "Stop it! You can't-- !!"
The Digimon short-stopped their attacks, bewildered, and Tai lifted his head to stare at Birdramon.
"Birdramon...?" he whispered. "nanio shimasu ka...?"
Dice looked up. It was his chance to kill them all, and end this stupid fight. But... he could see the back of Birdramon as she protected him. Then, he remembered what she had promised, and she hadn't betrayed his trust.
He stood up and glared at everyone. Then, to the surprise of the Digidestined, he ricocheted of Birdramon's back and jumped up a nearby building, disappearing from sight.
He had thrown Birdramon slightly off-balance with his jump, but she had remained firm in front of him, much to the surprise of everyone.
Birdramon did not flinch at the pressure of Dice's leap, rather she remained standing, her wings outspread before the spot where he had fallen. Once she was sure he was gone, she dropped her wings and seemed to deflate, slowly devolving back to Biyomon. Sora gaped at her Digimon in bewilderment.
"Biyomon...?" she asked. "Why did you... why...?"
Tai got to his feet, anger blazing in his eyes. "What the hell did you think you were doing, Biyomon?" he demanded coldly. "You let Dice get away!!"
Biyomon looked at the ground, and then her eyes moved to Domino's battered body. "And what do you think would have happened to Domino if you had killed Dice?" she asked, and the children paused in thought. "It didn't matter to her that he had betrayed her... she was still willing to give him another chance..."
"But he was going to kill her!" TK cried.
Biyomon shook her head. "And she would have laid down and died before allowing his blood to stain our hands..." she said. "If Dice gets killed because of his alliances with Myotismon, Domino will be crushed... but if he gets killed by our hands..." the Digimon paused. "If he is killed by us... or by her... then domino, too, will die..."
Joe looked at everyone, before addressing Biyomon. "Listen, Biyomon, Dice made his choice. He told us he would kill us if we met again, and he proved it! He almost killed Domino without even stopping to consider! We can't let him kill us just because we feel sorry for him!"
"Biyomon..." Sora said softly, fearing her Digimon had an insight into this situation that everyone else lacked.
"Datte, Biyomon!!" Joe cried. "We had the chance to be rid of Dice, and you defended him!!"
"That's kinda like treason..." Tentomon said facetiously.
Biyomon shook her head. "No... it wasn't betrayal... it was a pre-emptive strike against betrayal on all of our parts..."
Domino lifted her head, with a little effort. "No, Joe," she argued, "He... he..." she stopped. It almost hurt too much to say it. "Myotismon has taken control of his mind... the Dice I know would never have done this..."
She shuddered, as if the very act of remaining conscious was utterly exhausting. "We... we have to bring him back..."
Joe shifted his glasses. He knew why Domino would defend Dice, but Biyomon, however... "What do you mean betrayal in all our parts, Biyomon?" he asked.
The bird Digimon frowned. "I..."
Domino looked at her
Biyomon's features hardened. "Dice is one of us, Joe," she insisted. "Even if he's strayed... he was one of us long before he became one of Myotismon's own... he was Domino's best friend... practically her brother... they made a promise long ago to always be there for each other..." she looked away. "We would not only be betraying our word to Dice that we don't kill Digimon unless we absolutely have to..." she hesitated. "But we would be breaking the very pact Domino made with him..."
"How can you always be there for someone who is dead?" she said suddenly. "...and in betraying that pact... we betray Domino..." Biyomon scowled "...and in betraying her, we betray ourselves..."
Biyomon's eyes turned cold. "He cares about her, still... I'm sure he does... somewhere, deep down beneath all of this hatred... she is still his little sister..."
Everyone looked a little confused by this remark, and Biyomon quickly continued.
"Besides... he isn't acting of his own will... I think that there is something... or someone... who is being held over his head..."
Tai blinked. "Whaddya mean by that?" he asked, and she floundered.
"Oh... never mind," she said, and fidgeted uneasily.
Tai sighed and looked at the rest of the Digidestined, then kneeled next to Domino.
"Domino, I think you should tell us exactly what is happening between you and Dice." He said.
Domino could do nothing but nod.
Above them, hidden in the branches of a nearby tree, Wizardmon leaned forward to hear as Domino started her story.