SILENT SORROW
Chapter 16
Concerto of Despair
Part III: Nocturne of Sadness
E.T.D. (Estimated Time of Death): 60:05:55
Everything hurt so much. There was nothing but pain. But there were no wounds or marks. No, the pain wasn't physical. But the tears wouldn't stop flowing.
The bright morning sunlight blinded her, and she was forced to close her eyes. But the tears wouldn't stop flowing. She frowned and squeezed her eyelids until they couldn't hurt any more. The day was getting warmer, and she felt her tears as they went down her face. There was nothing but pain. Pain and terror beyond anything she had experienced before.
……where………am I?
She opened her eyes again, but soon closed them as the sun was right above her. She turned her head to the right and once again opened her eyes. She saw trees and grass making an average Digital World forest scene.
Her body felt numb, but she gave it her best to raise her upper body to get to a sitting position. Her vision became blurry, but she shook her head and waited for her sight to focus. Not just her body seemed to be weak, but her mind, too. She seemed unable to make two decent thoughts successfully. But she remembered. And it hurt.
She raised her right hand and placed her on her flat and completely fat-less abdomen, which many women would envy………
Mimi covered her face with her hands and cried again. Her son was gone.
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What am I?
I'm Alice McCoy. That is my name. That was the name my parents gave me.
What am I? Who am I?
I'm fourteen years old……technically speaking. I should be in eighth grade by now. Of course, I haven't gone to school in a very long time.
What am I?
A Digimon Tamer……no………Dobermon was never my partner. We were brought together by fate……the same fate that took him away from me. But it was the right him to do. He belonged to the Tamers all along.
Who am I?
I am nothing. I do not exist………
"Wrong. You exist……outside the flow of the world."
Goddramon. Quite a persistent Digimon, are you?
"………………"
…………
………...
…………
…………who am I?
I am pain. Sadness is my best friend, and she always walks by my side. I only bring sadness to those close to me, and in the end, I carry the shadow of death within me.
Who am I?
…………I am the Reaper.
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E.T.D. (Estimated Time of Death): 60:01:02
DC tiredly stared at the remnants of last night's bonfire. However, as it is usual for those with Omnivices, his mind was working at full speed while his body rested. It was a necessary caution and measure, since he had spent the whole night warding off evil Digimon, which was pretty much what he had done since he returned to the Dark Ocean. After getting rid of Daemon's standby troops (making sure Daemon wouldn't get reinforcements), he had pretty much waited……even if he wasn't precisely sure of what he was waiting for. He just blindly followed Gabrielle's instructions. And he didn't really like that. Aside from that, Gabrielle insisted in teaching him everything about Gospel and Project Asmodeus, which makes enough material for one hell of a headache. And this was pretty much where we left last time.
As I told you before, there were two symbols of the Divinity's presence in the Universes. They were the Tree of Life, Sephiroth, and the Tree of Knowledge, Yggdrasil. When Adam tainted the human race with the Original Sin, and Lilith got free from her underwater prison, the Tree of Life withered and died, leaving only ten seeds. These are the Seeds of Sephiroth, which now rest at the roots of Yggdrasil. One for each Archangel.
I thought there were only nine Archangels.
That's because you always forget my dearest Takato. You can never forget him; he's the only constant in all this setting.
Oh………okay. So, what's the deal with these seeds, anyway?
You should know by now that you cannot take things literally. You see, something as important and valuable as Sephiroth couldn't be abandoned, right?
Uh……I guess.
Actually, there were nine creatures guarding the Tree of Life, and even when the Tree disappeared, these legendary creatures were never forgotten, becoming mythological monsters for several cultures throughout the world.
…………you're telling me the names of these creatures, right?
What would be the fun in that!?
Somehow I just knew you'd say that.
That means we know each other pretty well already! Isn't that lovely, my dear?
…………I have no comments.
Aww……anyway, it seems things are getting pretty messed up in the Eastern Quadrant. The Second already got her Omnivice.
The second? The second Archangel?
No, dummy, the second EVA pilot. Of course I mean the second Archangel!!!
You know, for someone who has been inside a glass tube for thirteen years, you certainly know your anime stuff.
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E.T.D. (Estimated Time of Death): 59:57:28
Rika was the first to wake up that morning. It was to be expected, since Takato wasn't in his best condition. In fact, he couldn't be any farther from his best condition. And I shouldn't write stuff like that anymore since we already know things will get worse.
Anyway, the first thing Rika noticed was the strange pressure on her chest that didn't allow her to get up. A further examination revealed that such pressure was in fact Takato's head. Prompt the blushing, prompt the pushing. Indeed, three seconds later Takato was sleeping dangerously close to the edge of the bed while Rika was now sitting on the bed, breathing heavily while she futilely tried to cover her unbelievable blush with the sheets. She looked back at Takato, who didn't seem to react to the sudden aggression towards himself. Falling prey to paranoia, Rika immediately thought the worst. That maybe Takato wasn't going to wake up.
She was about to search for a pulse when Takato snored. Prompt facefault.
After the initial rush of fear and anger subsided, Rika just sighed in relief.
"Stupid Gogglehead………" she muttered. "……making me worry and all that…………"
It was then when she realized she had no reason to get out of the bed anyway, and it was then when she realized she actually preferred to stay on the bed after all. Following her trail of thought, she pulled Takato closer to her (more to avoid Takato's falling off the bed rather than for her own satisfaction) and covered both of them with the sheets.
Takato was sleeping, and Rika simply stared at the peaceful expression on his face. She wondered how was it that such a goody-goody two shoes like Takato had fallen for someone like her.
"Why do you love me?" She whispered.
"…………" No response.
And she really wanted to know that. Every time she recalled a moment between her and Takato there was at least one insult or attempt at hurting the poor Gogglehead. Not that she really wanted to hurt him, of course. It was just her way of saying "Keep out. Beware of the Rika."
But he had persevered, going beyond the limits of human resistance to be with her. Was she that attractive, anyway? She knew she would be going through puberty very soon, but she was still flat as a board……which made her remember a certain scene of Gallantmon's face on Sakuyamon's breasts, and the subsequent exchange of words……and slaps……although she was the only one doing the slapping.
"Why do you love me?" She whispered one more time.
"…………" Once again, no response.
So, I don't have an appealing personality, or an attractive body………well, my mother's a model, so in a few years I might………nah, I don't think Gogglehead cares about that……I think he hasn't even pondered that thought!
Then what could it be? The answer was as elusive as its reciprocal. Why did she love Takato, anyway?
Do I need a reason? …………well, duh!
She concluded there had to be a reason. If she loved him for no reason at all, didn't that mean that her feelings weren't really love?
Why do I love him………maybe if he answered me I'd find my own answer.
She cuddled even closer to Takato and lowered her head to lean it against his chest. She shivered as she noticed Takato's weak heartbeat and irregular breathing. She closed her eyes to try to ignore this unwanted information.
"Takato, why do you love me?" She whispered for the third time.
"………because you're Rika Nonaka."
A pair of eyelids was opened, revealing Rika's shiny violet orbs. She looked up towards Takato, who smiled at her rather weakly. She wondered if that was because of having just awakened or because he was so weak. However, there was something in his smile that made her forget all her worries in the blink of an eye.
Takato……I love you………because you make me happy. Call me selfish, but it's the truth.
"Gogglehead……" She whispered softly as she replied to Takato's smile with one of her own.
"What, no adjective before the nickname?"
"………sweet baka Gogglehead………"
Takato chuckled. "You know, Rika……you are VERY cute when you're that mushy and stuff."
There was nothing but silence for a while as Rika shifted her to make herself and Takato more comfortable without losing their closeness.
"Takato……"
"Yes?"
"Don't say that ever again."
"Yes, ma'am."
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E.T.D. (Estimated Time of Death): 59:54:04
Shiota Hirokazu was absolutely and completely silent. He had nothing to say (for a change), so he simply ate his breakfast……and observed. The Tamers were having breakfast, or at least those who could. Ryo still wouldn't wake up. But the doctors said he was okay, and he believed that. Ryo couldn't be defeated by Daemon of all Digimon. Not even XeedMillenniumon had stopped Akiyama Ryo, what could a measly low-level Demon Lord do?
However, he now had a more urgent matter to attend to. A very urgent, but rather disgusting matter.
He caught the quick movement of an eye. There! It happened again.
"Umm……Hirokazu………could you pass me that jar?"
However, Hirokazu was oblivious to Kenta's request. In front of him. The interesting stuff was happening in front of him.
Jeri extended her hand to get the last toast……and collided with Henry's hand.
"Ah! Umm……sorry." She muttered, oblivious to the blush on her cheeks. Henry wasn't faring any better, though.
"Ah, umm, no! No……my fault……yes, it's my fault! Please take it."
"No! I couldn't! It's yours!"
Hirokazu witnessed the exchange with nothing but a raised eyebrow. He couldn't believe what he was seeing.
"No! I insist! Please, take it………"
Jeri did as told, and her body stiffened when her fingers brushed Henry's hand. "……thank you." She said shyly.
Henry was in the verge of a nervous breakdown. "…ahh…..yeah……you're welcome."
Jeri giggled happily before eating her toast. Hirokazu groaned. "Dear Lord………"
Jeri and Henry heard Kazu's complaining and looked up to the Visor Boy, who frowned in response. "Get a room, you two."
The mentioned couple looked at each other, and then quickly averted their gazes to their breakfast. Kenta, who had been oblivious to the whole thing, did notice this final exchange. "What's wrong?"
Massive facefault followed.
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E.T.D. (Estimated Time of Death): 59:52:13
Kamiya Hikari blushed like a little school girl. She hadn't blushed like that since when she was being courted by the one who'd become her husband……and ex-husband. She shook the thoughts of her miserable attempt at marriage and focused on her surroundings, even if her senses were pretty much shut down. Well, not really. It was more as if all of her body sensitivity were focused on her skin. She thanked God Takeru was fixated in studying her new Omnivice, for she would not know what to say if he saw her blushing the way she was. Every time the blonde man accidentally brushed his fingers against her skin, as he trailed the curves and shapes of the mystical artifact, Hikari felt a shiver going down her spine to her lower parts. She knew Takeru had anything but the intention of being delicate, tender or affectionate, but the way he was touching her was making a certain part of her body get very warm……and wet.
This of course was detected by the Pearl Omnivice on her right wrist……..and by the only other Omnivice in the nearby area.
………………must………count………to…………TEN!!!!
Takeru frowned. What is it, Pauline?
Are you done with your "study" already!?
He shook his head in response. Kari noticed, but she didn't understand the meaning of the gesture, which was obvious, since it wasn't for her.
This Omnivice……is different. It's not like you……or Ruki.
Really. But she's my sister, so why don't you just connect us and talk to her personally?
I guess……I just realized that Goddramon has been working behind my back………and I don't like it.
Well, I do understand. We're your creations, right? So we're like your daughters………
You're anything but my daughter, Pauline.
You have no idea how happy it makes me to hear that.
Takeru took out his infamous Omnivice port cable, and began connecting the Emerald and Pearl Omnivices.
"Kari, I need you to do something for me."
"Ah! Oh……s-sure!"
"You have to let yourself go. Just as if you were going to sleep for a while. Let go of yourself, and the Omnivice will handle the rest, okay?"
"H-hai."
Takeru positioned himself in front of Kari, who was disturbed by their closeness now that their arms were connected. Takeru closed his eyes and Hikari watched. Soon enough, Takeru's head lowered and his breath became more subtle. It was as if he had fallen asleep. Kari closed her eyes and tried to mimic him.
Whoa……that was quick. I wonder………if I………could do that………………………
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E.T.D. (Estimated Time of Death): 59:50:37
"Why won't this stupid thing work!?"
The man kicked a tree out of desperation.
"Ouch!!! Dammit!"
He slumped down on the grass. The cold water of the lake touched his feet, and the cool air delightfully caressed his hair……and he had lots of hair to be caressed. He let go a long breath and his body fell until his back touched the grass. He had chosen the best place to live. It was still in the Eastern Quadrant, but it was very far from every place he had visited before in his adventures. That was probably because he was in the western-most parts of the Eastern Quadrant. He wondered if he was close to the border……because there had to be a border, right?
For the first time ever, he wondered if he could go beyond that border, to the other quadrants. But he guessed that wasn't possible. It couldn't be that easy. If it were, there would be a constant flow of Digimon traveling between quadrants, and he hadn't heard of such a thing. But maybe his Digimon knew.
"Agumon!"
No response but the birds' chirping and the nearby sound of an Airdramon sailing the skies. He knew it was an Airdramon by the sounds he made as his wings pierced through the air. Almost fourteen years of wandering the Digital World had taught him some things. He didn't bother to look for the yellow dinosaur. Agumon could take care of himself…maybe even more than himself.
He groaned as he rose up again to a sitting position, and shook his head to get rid of his laziness. He still had to deal with that weird thing on his wrist. He looked down at the screen.
Control Mode Activated. Awaiting Instructions.
It had displayed the exact same message every second of the last few days, and he was getting sick of it.
"Ahhh! I'm sick of this!!!!" He shouted right before he slammed his right arm……against a large rock on the soil.
Nothing happened. He blinked twice. He was surprised he hadn't even felt the impact. Whatever that thing was made of, it was VERY resistant. If he could take it off, maybe he could sell it in the nearest Digimon town, who knows?
A loud beep interrupted his pondering. He looked down to the screen………and his eyes grew the size of large dishes.
The annoying message was finally gone, that's the good thing. The bad thing was that it had been replaced by nothing but endless lines of zeroes and ones.
"Aahhh!!! No, no! Undo! Undo! Escape! Ctrl.+Alt+Del, anything!!!! I'm sorry!!!"
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Somewhere in what is known as Infinity, Goddramon sighed.
"…………Stupid Tai."
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E.T.D. (Estimated Time of Death): 59:46:54
Takeru blinked. So did Kari. So did Pauline. When the Omnivice trait realized the trio wouldn't move a step further, she approached them. When she was close enough, she introduced herself with a polite bow.
"I am Ayla, the Pearl Omnivice. I am pleased to meet you."
"Heh……uhh……" Takeru couldn't say a thing, as the sudden rush of heat on his cheeks didn't allow him to. The girl in front of him was very pretty………and she was also VERY tall. In fact, she was the tallest woman he had ever seen. Roughly measuring, she was at least six feet and five inches tall……which made her taller than him by an inch and a half.
Ayla was worried by the lack of a response. Since Takeru was the "superior" in the group, she expected him to talk on behalf of the three. "Uhh……Lord Takeru?"
"Ahh…………umm………"
"TK!" Two females shouted at the same time.
"Ah! Y-yeah! Hi!"
Hikari sighed in relief, while Pauline shot daggers at her. "It's Takeru for you, missy!" She hissed.
Kari didn't mind Pauline……or didn't really hear her, for she focused her attention on the stranger. "Umm……you said your name is Ayla, right?"
"Indeed, Hikari-dono. I am your Omnivice."
Hikari-dono!? "Ahh………TK? What is she talking about?"
Pauline sighed. "Well, duh! She's your Omnivice! She's yours!"
Suddenly, she jumped at Takeru, wrapping her arms around his neck and her legs around his waist.
"And I'm his!"
Takeru twitched. "Umm……Pauline………"
Pauline smiled sweetly at her loved one……and shot a death glare at Hikari. "And it's TAKERU for you!!!"
Hikari didn't know what to say against that, except for……
"Takeru………what's the deal with this girl?"
Pauline shot one last glare before starting to rub herself against Takeru. Both Tamers sweatdropped.
"Ahh……Pauline? She's……she's my Omnivice's trait. She's a little too affectionate."
"I can tell."
Ayla was puzzled. "Umm……big sister?"
Pauline looked at her. After all, she was the first Omnivice, so she was the oldest of the "Omnivice Sisters". However, she certainly didn't look like it……at least compared to Ayla.
"Yes?"
"Is that a proper way to behave……with your Master?"
Pauline's ears perked up. "Of course! This is the way I WANT to behave!"
She snuggled closer to Takeru (if that was even possible) and whispered seductively to his ear.
"Please do as you wish with me……Master…………"
Needless to say, Takeru was in the verge of a nosebleed. Pauline had taken "embarrassing" to a whole new level.
"Pauline, could you please save this for later?"
"Later!?" Hikari shouted. Pauline purred in delight and got off Takeru. She walked ceremoniously towards Ayla, and bowed politely.
"Please to meet you, sister. I am Pauline, the Emerald Omnivice."
"It's an honor and a pleasure to meet you, Pauline-sama."
"My, so formal! I'm just Pauline, Ayla-chan!!!"
"As you say, Pauline………san."
Pauline sighed in defeat. She looked at Hikari. "What the big deal, making her so damn uptight?"
Hikari shook her head. "I don't even know what you're talking about."
Ayla took that as her cue to explain. "Umm……big sister……"
"Yes?"
"Hikari-dono had nothing to do with my creation. The new Omnivices are programmed with specific traits especially suitable to each Tamer."
"Hmm……I certainly need to talk to Goddramon later." Takeru concluded.
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E.T.D. (Estimated Time of Death): 57:44:01
For the second time that morning, Rika woke up.
As expected from her, she followed a very precise routine every time she woke up. It was followed with scientific precision and it always took her the exact amount of time every morning.
First, she would shrink to fetal position, tensing her muscles to her max, slowly releasing her body and stretching it as much as possible, trying to cover as much bed space as possible. Finally, she rubbed her eyes with the side of her hands.
She was in the middle of that when she realized something. She wasn't supposed to be able to do that……not if there was someone else on the bed.
"Takato!!!" She exclaimed, having lost all of her laziness.
The bedroom was empty.
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E.T.D. (Estimated Time of Death): 57:41:53
The group consisted on mainly Togemon, Lilymon and Blossomon. They were supposed to be training. Despite their peaceful lifestyle, they knew better than to ignore their defenses in such a place like the Southern Quadrant, where it was pretty much survival of the fittest. Besides, they had just received urgent orders from Lord Cherrymon and Lady Rosemon to be prepared for anything. The guarding shifts had been doubled, and more Digimon were used in every shift. It was almost as if they were getting ready for some sort of war. They all suspected it had something to do with the human "prisoners", but nothing had been told by their leaders, and no one dared to ask.
Yes, they were supposed to be training. But there was no way for them to focus on their training when such a scene was taking place in front of them.
Rosemon struck again with her Thorn Whip, but Renamon easily dodged by jumping backwards. Rosemon had the intention to continue her strike when Renamon disappeared without a trace. It wasn't very difficult to realize that Renamon was simply moving very fast, using the native environment to prepare a stealth attack. All the spectators were simply amazed that a simple rookie could withstand the attack of their leader, the only Mega Digimon in the whole place, and by far the strongest of them. It just wasn't possible. They had never heard of something like that. A Rookie, fighting one-on-one against a Mega? Ridiculous. But they were witnesses.
Simultaneously, they all looked at the young kid who intensely watched the battle. His left hand held what seemed to be a deck of cards, while his right hand clutched his chest. He was breathing heavily and his legs seemed barely able to bear the weight of his body. It was as if he were the one fighting Rosemon, not the rookie.
However, he had this huge smile on his face. He was obviously enjoying this.
Rosemon kept looking around, trying to catch a glimpse of the fast Renamon. Meanwhile, the vulpine Digimon waited. She had no opportunity against a Mega, and she wondered why Takato had requested a sparring match with Rosemon. She even wondered why she had agreed to do it in the first place. She could see that Takato was exhausted by the continuous use of Modify Cards, needed for her to keep Rosemon on hold to that point. She was getting a little tired, too. She wanted to win, of course, but she just couldn't see the way. It simply went against the laws of nature. A rookie couldn't do a thing against a Mega, period.
She KNEW she was going to lose. And she also KNEW Rika would kill her for going along with Takato with this.
But Takato's smiling face kept telling her otherwise.
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What are you doing!?
…………………
For God's sake, Takato, stop this!
………why?
This can't be good for you!
I know.
Are you a masochist or what!?
Maybe.
Dear Lord………Takato, please.
Ruki, we both know I don't have much time left, right?
……………right.
The why don't we just make the best of it? I'm having fun here. Aren't you? I'm pretty sure the other me is having a blast.
Oh, geez………
"What!? I am!"
Takato released the hold on his chest. He felt his heart was beating at like a hundred per minute. It was very painful, but the adrenaline running through his bloodstream………it was one of the best feelings ever. He proceeded to shuffle his deck. His reflexes were weakening, but his hands could still make quick and precise movements. He shuffled his deck like a pro.
How did you……learn to do that!?
Ryo taught me the first time I came to the Digital World. I never really practiced; I'm really surprised I did it the right way!
"I guess it's because of me. I guess I learned how to do it on one of my other incarnations, who knows?"
Who knows!? Don't you keep track of your incarnations or something!?
He looked at the top four cards, and once again surprise struck him. Whoa! It really works!
He raised the first three cards high atop his head. Renamon took that as her signal to strike. She would trust Takato……he had never failed her before.
She lunged at Rosemon from right behind her. Rosemon began to turn around.
"Digi-Modify! Strength Plug-In, O! Battle Tomahawk!"
Rosemon was the first to strike with the battle axe. The much faster Rosemon easily dodged……and prepared an attack of her own. Renamon was defenseless against Rosemon's Roses Rapier.
"Alias!!!" God, I love this card………
Rosemon's rapier hit nothing but an illusion, and now Renamon was the one with the chance to land a hit. She raised her right arm to use the tomahawk……when it disappeared.
"WarGrowlmon!!!"
You're just full of surprises, aren't you? Renamon thought as she charged the energy between her hands for her attack.
"Atomic Blaster!"
The blast hit Rosemon on her side, sending her flying and rolling on the floor until she reached the little spring under the waterfall. Renamon reached a halt and rested.
"Renamon, we're not done yet!"
She looked at her temporary Tamer and nodded. Then she rushed to wait for Rosemon's surfacing.
Ruki……
Wait a second………there…….there………now!!!
"Renamon, jump!!!"
Renamon, simply obeyed, surprised at the sight of Rosemon's whip coming out of the water and striking the place Renamon had just been a second earlier. Rosemon came out of the spring and lunged at Renamon. At the same time, Takato prepared his most precious possession……after Guilmon………and Ruki.
"Digi-Modify! Sakuyamon!!!"
The Sakuyamon Special Deluxe Gold Card gave Renamon the familiar rush of energy she felt in her Mega form. She knew exactly what to do.
"Spirit Strike!"
The much-greater range of Renamon's attack made the difference, but Rosemon still had a greater time advantage. The four spirit forces hit Rosemon and sent her back to the ground, but not before Rosemon's whip literally slapped Renamon's face. It didn't reach her eyes or anything, but it still hurt like the dickens.
Takato sighed. At fist glance it seemed like a tie, but he knew Rosemon would get up. He seriously doubted Renamon would, though. They were both very tired, Tamer and Digimon. However, he felt a strange satisfaction. He had actually managed to battle a Mega without having Renamon evolve. He seriously doubted he could do that with Guilmon, which showed just how well Renamon was trained.
Guilmon…………
"BAKA!!!!!"
*TWACK!*
"OW! Rika, why did you……" Takato froze when he looked at her. Her eyes were burning with an anger he hadn't seen……in quite a while.
"WE will talk later." She whispered maliciously. He gulped.
Rika left to look after her fallen partner.
BUS-TED!
Oh, shut up!
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E.T.D. (Estimated Time of Death): 56:36:21
A very scared DarkScubamon approached to Daemon. They were supposed to give constant reports of their findings. A different Digimon was chosen to do it every time. That was mostly because they were all pretty scared of the red-cloaked demon lord. So they had Lady Luck do the choosing. However, since the Kurisarimon's and Infermon's communication skills were very close to zero, it was up to the DarkScubamon to do the reporting. And since they were pretty much a minority in the group, that reporting really scared the living hell out of them.
"Ah, um……sir!"
A grunt was the only response. The Ultimate Digimon translated it as a "go ahead".
"Sir, the place seems to be completely empty. No traces of humans and Digimon in the nearby area. We have spread our search groups to other zones, but we're encountering resistance by the human's military forces."
Another grunt, which did nothing but making the messenger even more nervous.
He's not here………the Vessel's not here!!!
"Any response from the Digital World?"
"Nothing yet, sir, but we've managed to detect the Vessel's digital trace. We're following it right now, sir."
"Are you sure it's the Vessel?"
"Sir, excuse my bluntness, but I consider such a unique trace to be unmistakable. Am I wrong?"
Daemon smiled under his cloak. "You are excused. You may proceed with the search."
"Sir, yes, sir."
Yes, unmistakable……even this low-life scum from the Dark Ocean lick their lips when they feel it. I'm sure they'd also like to get their dirty hands on him. But they'll do their job. They'll bring him to me………alive. They know they'd be dead before even daring to touch him.
Daemon looked up……and the underling was still there. "What is it?"
The DarkScubamon gulped. His Lord was clearly annoyed. "Um……sir……we've noticed the Gate to our home has disappeared."
"And?" Daemon insisted.
"Well……we wondered if there was something wrong."
Daemon didn't say a word. He had also noticed, of course. After all, it was HIS Gate the one which had disappeared. He also knew that his secondary forces in the Dark Ocean had been decimated. He didn't know by whom, but he had a pretty good idea. That BlackMegaGargomon's Black Moon Flare was still fresh in his mind. He swore that he'd make that pathetic human and his annoying Digimon his next targets after he got the Vessel. He'd really enjoy breaking that pitiful boy's bones one by one.
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In the Dark Ocean, the boy known as DC went into a sneezing fit.
Darling……this is the worst time to catch a cold………
Oh, shut up, Gabrielle…………
"What is it, buddy? Allergic to monochromatic places?"
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Daemon looked at his soldier one last time. "You have nothing to worry."
"But, sir, our friends are-!!!"
The crowd of DarkScubamon gathered outside Daemon's pavilion only heard a horrid scream, followed by the much too familiar sound of a Digimon dissipating into data. Daemon chuckled as he heard the sound of uneasy Digimon scattering as far away from him.
"I'm the one who makes the questions."
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E.T.D. (Estimated Time of Death): 55:59:03
Takato stood nervously at his bedroom's entrance. After the match between Renamon and Rosemon, and Rika's subsequent response, he hadn't had the chance to see her. He had been summoned by Lord Cherrymon, to do nothing but talk. The elder Digimon seemed to truly enjoy his company, and Takato didn't find it in his heart to refuse the invitation, even if after an hour he was bored to death. He knew that Cherrymon had the best intentions, but he was the uncoolest teacher ever. In the end, Takato used the excuse of been hungry to get out of Cherrymon's chamber. As he was about to enter the bedroom to have lunch, he remembered that Rika was angry.
He was still pondering whether to enter or not when a hand popped out from behind the curtain, grabbed him by the t-shirt's neck and pulled him inside.
Next thing he knew, he was standing on the middle of the room, while Rika glared at him from the entrance. Renamon was nowhere to be seen.
"W-where's Renamon?"
Rika twitched. "Outside."
Okay, that wasn't a good answer.
"Scary girl, this Rika."
"You made MY Digimon fight a Mega Digimon WITHOUT any evolution." Rika hissed.
"Well, I just……"
Rika raised her right index finger. Takato shut up.
"By doing that, you not only risked Renamon, but your own life, too."
"Rika, I…one day you'll realize there are some things worth dying for."
Rika stood there, silent, for a whole minute, until she replied by simply shaking her finger. Takato sighed. "How much did you see?"
"Enough." She whispered as she got closer to him. Takato gulped and moved one step backwards. But Rika was much faster and soon had grabbed him again by the shirt's neck.
"What I saw……" She whispered again. Takato could feel her breath on his face, and her eyes shone with unseen intensity.
"What you did………what you and Renamon did……"
Takato closed his eyes and waited for the worst.
"………was the coolest thing I've ever seen."
Takato barely had time to open his eyes before Rika wrapped her arms around his neck and joined with him in a ferociously passionate kiss.
Renamon entered the room with their lunch.
Renamon saw the little scene.
Renamon retreated the exact same way she had arrived.
Rika had such strength that she forced Takato to move backwards until his back hit the stone wall………hard.
"OWW!!!"
Rika immediately let go of Takato.
"Ah………oops?"
Takato simply raised an eyebrow.
*************************************************************************
E.T.D. (Estimated Time of Death): 49:50:43
Everyone watched the battle with utmost admiration. Especially Davis and Yolei. They had known that Kari had become a Digi-Destined before them, and they also knew she had been in many more battles than them. But they had never seen her so focused……so strong……so aggressive.
In the sky above Gennai's lake, SlashAngemon and Magnadramon were going at it. HARD.
At ground level, Kari clumsily looked through Takeru's deck, searching for something that looked useful. Considering that she didn't even know what half of those cards did, she was having little luck. After all, Takeru's crash course on Digimon Taming was literally a crash course.
Eventually, the other Digi-Destined joined to help her.
"What about this one?" A just-as-puzzled Sora suggested. "Offense Plug-In K. It sounds powerful."
Izzy shook his head. "It would be for naught if Magnadramon can't even land a hit. SlashAngemon is just too fast."
Cody agreed. "She needs something that won't miss. Some sort of unavoidable attack."
Joe sighed. "She needs a miracle."
Davis picked a card. "What about this one!?"
It was the LadyDevimon card. Everyone sweatdropped.
"I don't think so." Kari muttered.
Above in the sky, Magnadramon struggled to keep her long body away from SlashAngemon's sharp arm-blades. Takeru looked down and smirked at the sight of the puzzled Digi-Destined. Pauline didn't bother hiding her amusement.
Hehehehe………losers.
************************************************************************
E.T.D. (Estimated Time of Death): 46:30:22
"Whoa."
"No, not 'whoa'. WHOA!"
Takato and Rika were lying on the huge bed, Rika in a kimono, Takato in a plain old bathrobe. Both had their eyes the size of tennis balls. Renamon was conveniently outside the bedroom. She had realized that Takato's and Rika's expressions of affection weren't something she was very fond of.
The Tamers had a very active afternoon, which is even more notable considering Takato's health. However, Takato couldn't feel better. After noon's unexpected make-out session, lunch followed, of course (after Renamon considered it was safe to enter the bedroom). Then, Takato went over to Cherrymon's chamber for another boring two-hour lesson, while Rika and Renamon discussed defensive strategies with Rosemon. When Takato was done, he was in desperate need of something, anything, remotely interesting, which Rika immediately satisfied with a few Card Matches. Rika got rid of Takato's boredom……and self-esteem. After been thoroughly humiliated by the Digimon Queen, for some unknown reason, another make-out session followed. Maybe it was Rika's pity on him or something (which made Takato realize that he didn't mind losing at all!).
After that, the hot springs, which turned out to be very uncomfortable for them, as their minds kept shifting to the earlier events, wondering how it would be like to make-out in the hot springs. It would be very slippery, very wet, and very other adjectives I can't think of at the moment.
Thankfully, that didn't happen……actually, Ruki made sure it didn't happen. And Takato learned that electric shocks hurt a lot more in hot springs. Rika learned that Ruki could be one overprotective Omnivice.
After that, dinner. A VERY long dinner, for Takato realized that at some point during the day he lost control of his hands, which would either shake endlessly or just not respond to Takato's commands. Ruki explained it as his brain cells deteriorating and dying, which of course sent Rika over the edge. Takato thanked God Rika wasn't the ordinary woman, for he couldn't stand a girl sobbing and crying at the moment. He would leave the sobbing and crying to Ruki. On the other side, Rika took things very calmly by shoving……I mean, feeding Takato. The boy would tease her at times by giving her compliments or some really neat catch phrases. Her blushing reached a peak maximum after "I'm lucky to have the cutest nurse." followed by some playful punching from Rika, which turned out not to be so playful. They had to wait for another hour to Takato's pain to recede before she could finish feeding him.
After that, more hot springs. They were getting quite addicted to it, and it seemed to help Takato's sore body. This time they weren't alone, as Rosemon and a bunch of Lilymon joined them. Suddenly, Takato was surrounded by cheery, happy, joyful fairy Digimon who kept toying and teasing the human couple, especially the always-interesting Matsuki Takato, who attracted nice Digimon just like he attracted evil ones. Add to that the beautiful queen of flowers, Rosemon, who was very interested in knowing more about him and humans in general. Takato had never been surrounded by so many females in her entire life, much less in his birthday clothes. Result being massive nosebleed, fainting, and Rika having to carry him all the way to the bedroom. What was even worse, Rosemon and the very worried Lilymon wouldn't leave until Rika explained what the weird ooze coming out of Takato's face was. Only after Rika made up the most unbelievable excuse ever, which included a lot of flattering to the "ever-beautiful Lilymon", the fairy Digimon left Rika and the unconscious Takato alone. Rika was getting sick of their giggling. They were just too damn cute.
Anyway, Takato woke up again, and after some massive scolding from Rika, they agreed on blaming it on too much time in the hot springs. They both knew it was a shameful lie, but as long as they were happy…………cue another make-out session.
Which takes us to the present time, where we have two scared Tamers.
"Where did you learn to do that!?" Takato spat.
"I DON'T KNOW!" Rika replied with a laugh.
"Are you sure you haven't been making out with someone else before this?"
"Don't mess with me, Gogglehead!"
Takato sighed and looked away. He felt a little disappointed. It wasn't Rika's fault, of course. She was too perfect to do something he'd find disappointing. He was the problem. He was always the problem. His body was reaching its final hour, and he still had the nagging feeling there was something he still had to do. Adding the fact that he was very worried about his friends in Shinjuku, and we have one troubled Takato. He knew they wouldn't defeat Daemon, for he and the Demon Lord were very similar. They both found their strength in their feelings. Takato used his trust and love while Daemon's soul fed on hatred and revenge. That's why they were able to go beyond the limits of their power. That's why Takato was stronger than the ordinary Tamer (that and his special constitution), and that's why Daemon was much stronger than the ordinary Mega Digimon.
So, the question remained. If they couldn't defeat Daemon, and he couldn't destroy him, then who would?
Those were Takato's distant matters. The closest problem he had at the moment was Rika. He was more than happy that the redhead was going to such extents to make those last days so enjoyable. He was beyond pleased, he was truly ecstatic. But he regretted being unable to do anything for her. He couldn't kiss her with the intensity he'd want to, he couldn't hold her tightly in his arms. He had no other choice but to let the girl handle everything for him………and he felt that was unfair.
However, he wanted to make her happy. By any means possible.
"Rika."
"Huh?"
Takato chuckled. The tone of her voice told him that she was very close to falling asleep.
"Could you please take my Deck of Cards?"
Rika grumbled and shifted her body to face him. "Now?"
"Please."
"……okay. Where is it?"
"………in my back pocket."
That got Rika wide awake. With a sly grin, she moved closer to Takato to whisper to his ear. "Hentai."
Prompt massive blushing. "Rika! I'm serious here!"
"Okay, okay………"
Blushing bright pink, Rika slid her hand to retrieve the above mentioned Deck. Takato nervously waited……
"Hey! Watch where you're touching!"
Rika smirked. "Now we're even."
Takato groaned. "You mean the Card Game Tournament? I can't believe you're still dwelling on that……"
"Really? Then how come you still remember?"
"Because it felt really good, okay!? And how come your hand's still on my ass!?"
Surprised by both the blunt confession and the sudden questioning, Rika quickly moved the hand away, now holding Takato's Deck.
"So what do you want this for………!!!!!!!!"
Takato immediately understood the meaning of Rika's sudden stop and surprised expression.
"I guess THAT would be the reason."
Rika eyed Takato for a second……and then she exploded.
"Stupid Gogglehead!!!!! How in God's name did you get this!?" She shouted as she shoved the Sakuyamon Special Deluxe Gold Card on Takato's face.
"Ah, well……because I'm a really cool guy?"
"Dream later, Googlehead, talk now!"
After a long sigh of defeat, Takato explained the whole thing, and how he bought the card with Sagara Ken's money.
"And that's why you have to be nice to filthy rich people."
Rika groaned. "I can't believe you have this. Why you, the worst player ever, of all people!?"
"Hey, that hurts!"
"Shut up!"
Takato left Rika to mumble some more incoherent words to no one. He was very tired, so he had to do things quickly.
"It's yours."
"What?"
"The card. It's yours. Take it."
"What!?"
Rika put the rest of the deck aside, keeping the ultra-rare card with her, looking at it with dreamy eyes. It was a tempting offer, an offer she wouldn't have doubted taking a few years before, but……
"I can't take it."
"Rika……please."
"Why?"
Takato smiled. He was wondering when she would ask that.
"I……I guess I don't need it anymore. I think it would be better if you kept it. It's a shame……I won't be able to see how you kick Ryo's ass with it."
*******************************************************************
E.T.D. (Estimated Time of Death): 43:12:46
At last, the chase was over.
The scout marveled at the green garden he was looking at from his perfectly hidden position. Night had fallen on the Digital World, and the place was completely dark. The tall trees blocked any light which could have come from the sky. So, the only light came from the torches within the passages and rooms carved within the solid rock.
There was no sound but the splashing of the waterfall against the pond below, and the rustling of leaves as they were shaken by the wind.
In the darkness and the silence, it was even more notorious. A Digital Trace that seemed to glow with a light of its own, almost as if it were proud of its unlimited power and its divine origin, not relenting or giving up on its bright even as its Vessel slept.
At long last, they had found Matsuki Takato.
It wouldn't take 24 hours to burn that place to ashes.
********************************************************************
E.T.D. (Estimated Time of Death): 37:20:40
Slowly, very slowly……Akiyama Ryo opened his eyes.
Light overloaded his optic nerve, forcing him to close his eyes again. The darkness of blindness helped him remember the reason he had been asleep in the first place. He remembered……a bright light, as the last thing he had seen before losing consciousness. Light……and fire.
Howver, unlike the scene he remembered from his last moments of consciousness, the room was deathly quiet. He didn't need to open his eyes again to realize he was completely alone.
No………
He opened his eyes and looked to his left. Exactly as he expected, Monodramon slept on a chair at the room's corner.
"Where you sleeping all this time, too?" He asked to the sleeping dragon. Of course, there was no response.
"It doesn't matter. We both needed a rest, anyway. The worst is yet to come, I guess."
*******************************************************************
E.T.D. (Estimated Time of Death): 37:19:16
With tired, uneasy steps, she moved forward. She wasn't really sure if she was going the right direction, she only knew she had to keep moving. Stopping was too painful. The cold was dangerously close and threatening, the pain was disturbingly numbing. She was slowly losing herself as her mind shut down. There was nothing left but sheer terror, a terror like no other human had ever experienced before.
Such was Tachikawa Mimi's unstable mind.
It was a warm morning, but Mimi walked through her own darkness. Her mind was distorted, and the eyes saw shadow where there was only light. Her fright made tricks in her mind, and the absolute paranoia that overwhelmed her froze her feet as she tried to walk.
Her legs gave up and she fell on the ground. Her eyes watered with tears.
"Sora…………" She muttered between sobs. "Koushiro……………Takeru………………"
Once again, she cried to sleep. The loneliness was killing her, breaking through the barriers of her sanity.
***********************************************************
E.T.D. (Estimated Time of Death): 37:17:09
Takato opened her eyes and welcomed the new day. It was a particularly warm morning, and the temperature was even more increased by the torches and candles in the rather secluded stone bedroom. And he felt even hotter because he was wrapped in a blanket and he was being hugged tightly by a red-haired young goddess……or at least that's how he saw her.
He had to admit it, he was beyond happy. The certainty of approaching death was the only thing that could possibly spoil the joy he experienced at the moment. And not even that seemed to bother him anymore, as he had already made the decision of making the best out of these last days.
So, if he wanted to do that, he had to get a good start, by waking up Rika. He knew she wasn't much of a morning person, but he also knew she wouldn't mind. Rika had been the perfect sweetheart since the moment they confessed to each other.
His intention was to just caress her delicate face until she reacted……until he realized he couldn't raise his arm.
He tried again, with the same result. His right arm wasn't reacting to his brain's orders. His mind was practically shouting to move, but there wasn't even the slightest response.
That rang an alarm in Takato's head. His left arm was wrapped around Rika's waist, so he tried to move it instead. The only reaction was his left arm falling on the bed like dead weight.
Now Takato was officially scared.
Takato………what's wrong?
I……I……I need to get up.
And so he did……or at least so he tried. But his body was completely numb, and his muscles weren't responding. He was completely paralyzed.
…I…I have to wake up Rika!!!
Takato opened his mouth to call for his beloved……and no sound came out of his mouth. And that scared him in a way no other thing had scared him before. His vocal chords were just as numb as his muscles.
Takato………
I……I can't………
Takato!!!
Help me! Oh, Lord, somebody help me!!!
Takato's stirring and shaking forced Rika to open her eyes. How was she expected to sleep if her partner moved that much? Very lazily, she opened her eyes and spoke quietly.
"Gosh, what's the big deal?"
Takato moved his head to face her and Rika quietly gasped. His eyes were injected with blood and his face was wet with tears. Rika bolted upwards, looking at nothing but Takato.
"Takato, what's wrong!?"
Takato could only shake his head. It was a miracle he could still move his neck, but he knew that wouldn't last long.
"Takato, what is it!? Please tell me what's wrong!?"
Takato's mind screamed. I CAN'T!!!!!
Rika was getting more angry than scared. "Are you making fun of me!?"
Takato immediately shook his head no, noticing that it really hurt to do it. However, the last thing he needed was an angry Rika.
"Then tell me what's wrong!?"
Takato was already desperate, not being able to think of a way to express his thoughts to Rika, when an electronic beep interrupted both Tamers. Rika looked down at Takato's Ruby Omnivice, where the black display showed Rika what she needed to know.
Takato has lost the ability to move and speak.
Rika gasped and looked at Takato, who slowly agreed with those words with an almost unnoticeable nod. Then it was the turn for Rika's eyes to water.
"Takato………."
Rika slumped down and cried on Takato's chest. Takato had never wanted to hold her so badly.
***************************************************************
E.T.D. (Estimated Time of Death): 35:00:33
MagnaAngemon easily blocked Stingmon's attack, forcing the insect Digimon to retreat and think of a new plan. Ken growled in disapproval of his partner's actions, but he didn't have any better ideas. While the Angel Digimon amused himself with Stingmon's futile efforts at landing a hit, Takeru and Kari talked under the shade of a tree. The morning was hot and the other Digi-Destined had left to rest after the early morning's training session. Only Ken had refused to give up, and kept trying his best at fighting MagnaAngemon. Takeru admired the detective's enthusiasm; he hadn't seen Ken so eager to fight since his Digimon Emperor days. It wasn't the kind of comparison he liked to do, but it was good for a change.
Must be because of the Crest of Power within him. I wonder………
"Takeru……" Kari said softly. She had given up on using his nickname. She didn't want Pauline prying on her for it all the time.
"Yes?"
"I'm worried."
Takeru sighed. "So am I. I'd like to think Mimi's okay, but………"
Kari looked at the battle in front of her. Ken shouted instructions at Stingmon, while the Champion Digimon seemed to be too exhausted to do as told. MagnaAngemon had settled on just evading attacks. There was no point in being aggressive anymore.
"Everyone's trying to act cool, but……" Kari continued. "Even Ken seems to fight to get rid of his worries. And I can tell Izzy is very worried."
"Yes, he is. He keeps blaming himself for her disappearance. We're reaching a critical point here. Daemon's forces are approaching, and you've all improved greatly, I admit, but………I still doubt it will be enough."
"This battle will be difficult……and very painful." Kari concluded.
"……………"
"It's okay."
Takeru turned his head at Kari, sincerely surprised by her words. Kari smiled sadly. "I think we're all used to pain."
It was a matter of seconds, but suddenly their eyes were locked on the other's. Neither Kari nor Takeru had felt their hearts beating as fast in quite a long time.
Hey! Hey! Takeru! TAKERU!!! HELLO!!! YOUR PAULINE IS HERE!!!
This time, however, it seemed not even Pauline's voice echoing in Takeru's head seemed to work, as the consuming result of fourteen years of longing were finally resurfacing.
"Takeru………" Kari whispered quietly, in that tone of voice all women know too well. The tone of voice that can destroy a man's will. She'd never know if Takeru actually heard it, though. For where Pauline miserably failed, Ken succeeded.
"Alright!!! Stingmon, GO!!!"
Before anyone could tell, the whole garden was filled with light. Both Tamers looked at source, amazed by the power and familiar bright light of evolution.
"Stingmon, digivolve to………Dinobeemon!!!"
In a sudden rush of speed, a Dragon-Insect mutant appeared from where the Champion Digimon had disappeared; taking MagnaAngemon by surprise with a powerful jab that sent the Angel flying very far away.
Takeru blinked. Hard.
………Pauline? It seems like we have an Ultimate Digimon to beat the crap out of.
Yeah, whatever!
Now why are you angry!?
Wha-you're asking me why!? I CAN'T BELIEVE YOU!!!
*PZZT!!!*
"Hey!" Takeru complained. However, he shrugged it away as another of Pauline's mood swings and focused on the matter at hand: showing Ken who's boss.
"Now things have gotten a lot more interesting………"
Kari sweatdropped. She then looked at her own Omnivice. "It will take me a while to get used to this."
Do not be worried, Hikari-dono.
Hikari smiled. "……thanks."
************************************************************************
E.T.D. (Estimated Time of Death): 29:53:57
Goddramon was satisfied. Giving the Pearl Omnivice to the younger Kamiya had been a great idea. He knew she'd eventually get it, but he wouldn't sin of false modesty. He had chosen the perfect moment. Adding that the fact that Takeru was training her, and he was now certain that she would be a valuable asset in the trials to come. He also knew that her peaceful nature was her main weakness, but Ayla would make up for that. Every detail was perfect.
He felt like he was in a roll. It was the perfect time to check if he could repeat the same success twice.
"Helena, the valiant Chimera Rider, I summon thee."
A pillar of light emerged from the ground, and a woman appeared from within it. She was a blonde like Pauline, but her hair was longer, as long as Ayla's and Ruki's, reaching her waist. Her skin was very clear but her eyes glowed with a burning crimson. Her body was tall and athletic like Ayla, but, unlike Ayla, this woman was more on the "voluptuous" side, like Pauline. In other words, Helena was a pretty good combination of Ayla's and Pauline's……most "notorious" features, except for the almost-demonic red eyes, which gave her a no-nonsense look.
"I am here, ready for your commands."
"It is time for you to join your Master." Goddramon replied. The woman nodded.
"I understand. I will gladly devote my life to serving my Master and Matsuki Takato."
Goddramon nodded. He didn't expect any less from Helena. "You may leave now."
Just like Ayla the day before, Helena disappeared in an explosion of light, to be replaced by an Omnivice. It was white like Kari's, but this one was transparent like a crystal. However, the insides of the artifact couldn't be seen, as the Omnivice was, in fact, opaque. However, its crystalline appearance made it quite appealing to the eye.
Goddramon was satisfied. With a third explosion of light, the Diamond Omnivice disappeared.
************************************************************************
E.T.D. (Estimated Time of Death): 29:12:45
"So, he's dead……" Ryo muttered more to himself than the Tamers standing around his bed. Henry, Jeri, Hirokazu and Kenta had just updated him on the situation, but there wasn't really much to say. Ryo had just been informed that the Hypnos Technician who had helped him rescue Henry had died in the explosion.
"What is Daemon doing now? I mean, you just said you haven't fought him since then, and it's been……what, two days? He could have blasted Tokyo to smithereens by now."
Henry agreed. "However, he doesn't seem very interested in useless rampaging. He's completely focused on looking for Takato, and he already knows Takato's in the Digital World, so he's sent his troops there."
"Not just that." Terriermon commented. When he had the attention of everyone in the room, the small Digimon spoke. "He's going through a lot of trouble keeping a Gate to the Digital World, especially after his last two battles. He may be very strong, but strong as he is, his power is limited. Fighting and keeping a Gate open has proven to be quite a challenge for him."
"That's the first good news I've heard in quite a while." Henry said. Terriermon chuckled.
"Momentai, Henry. There's no such thing as an invincible foe."
For the first time in several days, the weight of the situation seemed to loosen up a bit, and a few smiles crept up the Tamers' faces. While the humans pondered the idea of actually having a chance against the Demon Lord, the Digimon looked at Terriermon, who shrugged in response.
Mission Accomplished. There was no point in you fighting Daemon again if you had no hope of winning. We can win together, Henry, and if we can't………then I'll win for you.
*************************************************************************
E.T.D. (Estimated Time of Death): 27:24:29
So bored…………
"So bored…………" BlackTerriermon voiced DC's thoughts. Gabielle groaned inside the Opal Omnivice.
For God's sake, you have no patience!
"Oh, come on! I don't know how long we've been here doing absolutely nothing, loafing around in the ruins of Daemon's camp!" The Tamer complained.
"Daemon's camp, which WE destroyed! And what do we get for that!?" BlackTerriermon added. He didn't know what the Omnivice had said, but he had a good idea after listening to his Tamer's words.
Gabrielle sighed. Truth was, she was bored, too. But they had nothing else to do……yet. They could continue their quest to the Apex, but there was no point in doing something that would eventually be interrupted. She pondered what to say next, until an awkward, yet slightly familiar feeling reached her.
Oh………Goddramon seems to be in a hurry lately. The whole 'Takato dying' thing must be worrying him a lot.
"What do you mean?"
The Eighth is on the way.
"The eighth……Omnivice?"
Yep! A new Archangel will soon be born. Haniel, the Archangel of Power and Victory.
"Ichijouji Ken joins the party, huh?"
*************************************************************************
E.T.D. (Estimated Time of Death): 24:01:51
"It's not fair." Rika said to herself. It wasn't the first time she had said those words that day. She had moved a seat next to the bed, where Takato slept. Once again, she was amazed by the fake peace his stillness seemed to irradiate. It was almost as if his body wanted the rest of the Universe to think everything was okay. But Rika knew too well that was a lie. Nothing was okay. They were in what could be called a Digimon Paradise, where everything seemed to be good and peaceful, but she knew it was all a lie. She could feel the tension their presence caused among the Digimon in that place. She could tell a great number of them didn't want them there. And she also knew she and Takato weren't doing any good to them by staying.
Rika focused on Takato again. There was no change. He couldn't even stir in his sleep anymore. His body couldn't move an inch.
"It's not fair."
Renamon was absent, again. Rika didn't mind, as she knew the Digimon wasn't there for a good reason. She was checking on the place's defenses, as little as they could be, to search for possible strongholds or, if it was necessary, escape routes. Rika knew their priority was to survive, and if they had to escape and leave Cherrymon and his people to their deaths, so be it.
She sighed sadly. She had gotten used to the hot springs at that time of the day. She knew they'd probably be closed, though. Rosemon no longer allowed such pleasures to her people. The Mega Digimon seemed to be getting more nervous every minute.
"Why does it have to end like this?" She asked the sleeping Takato. "There's nothing but fear and grief, both here and back home. Why can't we just be happy for a change?"
She wondered what she could be doing if things weren't the way they were. She would be already done with dinner, so she'd probably be working on her homework by then. With a shy grin, she imagined Takato going over to the house, maybe……no, most likely with the excuse of helping her with her homework, as if she needed any help, worst of all, from him. She wouldn't mind having her boyfriend visiting her, though (she blushed at the idea of having a 'boyfriend'). She couldn't believe she had started to think like any other girl, having the exact same thoughts she had always discarded as silly and meaningless. However, the illusion of such a peaceful, tranquil, normal world was so appealing that……………
She wasn't sure when her joy changed to tears.
"Why………why can't it be like that?"
Her mind had nothing but thoughts of her family and Takato.
"Am I destined to live in pain? Why is it that the more I love my life, the more pain life pays me back with?"
She was still pondering the nagging questions in her troubled heart when the sound of a horn echoed in the stone walls.
**********************************************************************
E.T.D. (Estimated Time of Death): 23:57:13
The first wave of the attack was swift and deadly. The few Digimon that stayed outside the rocky chambers after nightfall didn't even see what hit them. By doing that, Daemon's troops made sure the ones inside wouldn't be warned in advance.
Once the hard part was done, the next thing to do was to make sure nobody would escape. It was as simply as starting a fire.
And then, panic ensued. Those who abandoned their rooms and went outside were slaughtered, while those who stayed were slowly asphyxiated by the smoke from the fire that destroyed the forest outside. Rosemon didn't even have time to organize the troops when the invading forces made their way inside the rocky caverns.
Rika dashed through the madness and the running Digimon to meet with Rosemon and Renamon. "How many!?"
"Too many." Rosemon shouted to make her heard in the madness. It hurt Rika to see Rosemon's expression in that moment. It was the look of someone who knew death was upon her.
"Well, what are we doing here?" Rika stated. Rosemon nodded before flashing a brief smile.
A few seconds later, Rosemon and Sakuyamon were struggling their way outside through the hordes of DarkScubamon, Kurisarimon and Infermon. A few other Digimon reacted at the sight of the two brave Megas, and joined them in their final struggle for existence. However, the difference was just too large, as they were outnumbered 7-to-1.
"Full back! We must not let them reach Lord Cherrymon's chambers!" Rosemon shouted, and the Digimon retreated as far as they could to reorganize before the enemies caught up to them.
The main defending group locked itself inside a rather large room carved within the rock. Sakuyamon looked around and recognized the group of Lilymon who joined her and Takato at the hot springs the day before. She couldn't believe the difference between their usual cheerfulness and joy and the visible terror that overwhelmed them at the moment. She wanted to give them some reassuring words, but she knew it was nothing but a lie. Besides, it was already too difficult to breathe.
"Rika, they're taking their time." Renamon spoke. Sakuyamon nodded. "Yeah, they should be already here by now."
Rika knew that, whatever the reason was for the enemies to be delayed, it couldn't be good. Rosemon approached and leant closer to Sakuyamon.
"Why aren't they here yet?"
Sakuyamon shrugged, expressing Rika's ignorance. However, Renamon had an answer. "They are checking every room. They will be no prisoners."
Both Rosemon and Sakuyamon looked down……until Rika remembered an important detail.
"Takato!"
*******************************************************************
Takato opened his eyes. He felt tired, very tired. And very dizzy. He didn't need to look around to realize Rika wasn't in the room.
He did realize it was kind of noisy outside. He wondered what the ruckus was about. Then he also noticed he was having trouble breathing. The strong smell of smoke helped him discard the idea of his lungs being paralyzed. But that brought the question of where the smoke was coming from. It didn't take him that long to put two and two together.
Move!
Nothing happened. Not even when he knew that moving was the difference between life and death, his body wouldn't react.
Move! Move! MOVE!!!
Takato……there's no point…………
With tears in his eyes, Takato gave it everything he got.
"Move, dammit, MOVE!!!" He found himself shouting at the top of his lungs.
It is a very well known fact that a man facing death finds strength he didn't know he had. This case excels when it comes to very special people, like Matsuki Takato.
Two seconds later, he was face down on the ground after his body rolled itself off the bed.
Great! Gotta move……where!?
He knew outside the bedroom was not an option, so he crawled to the bathroom and hid inside the shower, only covered by a curtain. He let go a long sigh, which he promptly interrupted when he heard footsteps inside the bedroom.
Please don't come here, please don't come here, please don't come here………
A rather large shadow appeared as something huge entered the bathroom and began looking around.
Please don't move the curtain, please don't move the curtain, please don't move the curtain!!!!!
Suddenly, the curtain was ripped apart and Takato found himself face-to-face with an Infermon.
For an instant, the whole world shut down around them, and it was just Takato and the large Ultimate Digimon.
Takato looked at the huge emotionless face.
Infermon looked at Takato.
Takato kept looking at Infermon.
Infermon walked away.
What the!? Hello! Vessel of God here!
Shut up, stupid Gogglehead! Do you want him to see you!?
But how come he hasn't……?
Oh, come on, and you call yourself a Digimon fan!? Don't tell me you don't know what I just did!
Takato was in the mood to think at that moment, but once again his clever mind didn't fail him, and brought back the memory of a certain episode of the first season of Digimon, the TV show. He just replaced Infermon with a Bakemon and himself with redhead Izumi Koushiro.
Digital Barrier!
Bingo! You get……absolutely nothing!
……I can't think of anything else but 'prodigious!' right now!!! Ruki, I love you!!!
Yeah, yeah, I don't hate you either. Can we please move!? This thing won't last forever, so we should just find Rika and get the hell out of here!
You don't have to tell me twice!
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"Dammit, dammit, damn it!!!!!" Sakuyamon shouted angrily as her staff went through a DarkScubamon's body, causing it to distort and fade into data. She couldn't believe she had left Takato!
"I have to go get him!!!"
"I understand your preoccupation, Rika, but…" Renamon, always the voice of reason, started.
"Preoccupation? Who said I'm preoccupied? I'm not preoccupied! I'M TERRIFIED!!!!"
I was supposed to look after him! I was supposed to protect him!!! Now they probably captured him already! Oh, God, I'm such an IDIOT!
"Rika, we can't do a thing right now. We can't stop their advance; much less force them to retreat far enough to get to Takato's bedroom."
"But………"
"Rika, let's focus on getting out of this alive, then we'll look for Takato."
Rika sighed, and Sakuyamon swatted a group of Kurisarimon like flies. "……alright."
Renamon sighed after her Tamer. She didn't want to admit it, but it had been her mistake, too. As an Agent of the Dragon God, she was also supposed to look after Takato. But she had enough trouble looking after her own safety at the moment.
Well, young Takato, I know I'm asking too much, but please show us what you're made of.
"Sakuyamon!" Rosemon's voice was heard saying a few yards behind. Sakuyamon looked behind for a second to realize they had reached the large door that led to Cherrymon's chamber.
"Damn it! What are you waiting for!? Open that door!"
"But-"
"But nothing! Now open the fucking door!!!"
"Watch your language, Rika……"
"Shut up, Renamon!!!"
Rosemon quickly opened the door and gestured her allies to get inside. Sakuyamon was about to do the same when the group of Lilymon stepped forward.
"Get inside, we'll protect this door!"
They proved their point by firing a barrage of Flower Cannons, which did little damage but helped create some disorder in the enemy lines. Sakuyamon shook her head.
"No……"
The Lilymon smiled their cute fairy smiles. "We'll stay here. Go!"
A few tears went down Rika's face. "I don't think so! Spirit Strike!"
The elemental foxes hit the front line of enemies, throwing them to the ground, stopping the enemies' advance. Sakuyamon took the time to grab two of the Lilymon by the wings and drag them inside with her. As expected, the rest of the fairies followed. Rosemon closed the door as soon as the last Lilymon entered the room. Sakuyamon let go of her victims.
"Ouch! What did you do that for!?"
"You're not playing hero tonight!!! Don't you give a damn about your lives!?"
"There are some things worth dying for." A strangely serious Rosemon answered. Rika entered a very particular state of shock. Takato had told her the exact same words a little more than 24 hours before. Sakuyamon shook her head.
"Whatever! Let's just think about getting out of here."
"Why don't you come over here, then?" The low-pitched voice of Cherrymon was heard saying. Rika looked up, at the large tree.
"There used to be a passage behind my body. It should still be there. I wouldn't know, since I can't turn my body around."
Rika sweatdropped. "Okay……" She muttered as she went to check. "………alright! It's here!"
"Then I guess this is goodbye." Rosemon stated.
"What!? What's that supposed to mean!?"
Rosemon smiled grimly and walked to her. "This passage is too narrow for Lord Cherrymon, Rika, Renamon. And we're not leaving Lord Cherrymon to be murdered here. We just can't. We owe too much to him, to this place he created for us to live in peace and happiness. So we're dying here, in our home."
"But…………"
"Now, go. If there's truly a God that looks after Digimon, we'll meet again, in another life."
Rosemon hid her sadness and gave Rika one last smile. It was a very beautiful smile.
"And now I am certain that God exists…………you fell in love with him."
Rika had long ago given up on hiding her tears. She didn't want to say goodbye, so she quietly walked to the passage and disappeared.
Rosemon looked away, at the door, which was being continuously slammed by the enemy forces, and it would break down in any moment.
"Well……now we wait."
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Takato was breathing heavily, and each step was carefully measured, so that he'd spent the least amount of energy possible. He had deactivated the Digital Barrier, as there seemed to be no enemies in that area and he needed all the spare energy for when the enemies did appear. The air was filled with smoke, which burned Takato's lungs every time he inhaled. He kept walking towards the noise, for he knew Rika would be wherever the battle was taking place.
Eventually, he made his way to Cherrymon's chamber. He activated the Barrier before getting close, for he heard the enemy Digimon were in there.
The place looked much bigger for a reason, as he walked unseen by everyone else. He stayed against the walls, to avoid any contact. He soon realized why the room looked much larger.
Cherrymon wasn't there.
Takato felt a sudden rush of anger fill him. It was Chaos working through him. No, it was an even greater feeling of hatred. For once, both Asmodeus and Chaos shared the same negative feelings.
How many………how many have to die for me to live!? There's no point………I'll be gone soon enough…………
He saw Rosemon and the remaining allies trying to stop the enemies' attack. But Daemon's forces were just too many, and Rosemon's partners were falling one by one. Takato felt the hand of fate squeezing his heart every time a Lilymon fell prey to the DarkScubamon's and Kurisarimon's attacks.
Takato's hands clenched to fists, and loose data began to gather around them. The Dark Forces were to intent on destroying the last of the resistance that they didn't even bother to absorb the fallen Digimon's data. And so, the remnants of Kurisamon, DarkScubamon, Lilymon, Cherrymon and other Digimon condensed together around Takato's hands.
An Infermon shot one of its Hell's Grenades, blasting a Kiwimon to data bits.
What the point!?
A Lilymon cried in horrible agony when a DarkScubamon pierced through her chest with her bare hands and ripped her body apart.
Why does it have to be like this!?
Rosemon encouraged her friends with a deafening battle cry, before crushing a DarkScubamon's head with her Roses Rapier.
Why does it have to be like this!?
The last remaining Blossomon growled as the Kurisarimon stuck to him like mosquitoes, slowly and painfully destroying him.
The death……the sadness………the nothingness………
"I CAN'T TAKE IT ANYMORE!!!!!!"
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It was right then when all hell broke loose. Computers around the world were rendered useless, regardless of location. Both the computers at Yamaki's and the Tamers' last shelter in Tokyo Number 3 or Pineapple Communications' servers at Eastern Quadrant Odaiba went into a massive breakdown. Wall Street and all of the world largest stock market shut down, and chaos ensued. Every computer and electronic artifact in every human world connected to every quadrant, from the Missile Calibration Systems belonging to the US Army to the average teenager's cell phone, was taken over by an unknown force. A few days later, when the crisis was finally over, the only thing every person would agree upon would be the strange symbol every display showed.
Three opposite red triangles.
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The rock around Takato began to crack and make noises. The battle had reached a sudden halt when Takato began to unleash his fury. Rosemon and the remaining plant Digimon stared in amazement at the Vessel of God, who kept collecting Digimon data between his hands.
However, the brief hiatus would reach an end when Daemon's forces recognized Takato as their main objective, and a group of three DarkScubamon approached him to capture him.
Takato's eyes widened. The rock under him cracked even more, and a gust of extremely hot steam gushed out of it, burning the enemy Digimon with a horrible efficiency. Their bodies got filled with burns and blisters before exploding with bursts of data, which was immediately collected by Takato. From that moment, every other enemy Digimon thought twice before making an attempt.
Pain……so much pain………agony………my agony…………
"FEEL MY AGONY!!!"
A column of magma gushed out of the cracks like a water spout, burning the nearby Digimon. The cracks became wider as the whole mountain began to shake, and more magma poured out of the holes and began to fill the room. However, the hot steam and the blazing magma didn't seem to affect Takato at all. Actually, it seemed as if it avoided him.
Rosemon stared at Takato, not sure of what to say, or what to think. Takato smiled.
"You know……you're going to die here."
Rosemon nodded. The Lilymon did the same, more out of sheer terror than anything else. Takato walked to them, his feet not touched by the hot magma.
"I am the beginning and the end. Everything in this world is mine, and will eventually return to me." He said, his voice now emotionless. This wasn't Matsuki Takato speaking. Neither was it Chaos. This was the very essence of everything. That which is both Balance and Chaos.
"Are you willing……to die for my cause?"
Rosemon stared at the scene before her. The enemy Digimon, now completely scared, were focused mostly of getting out of there before the whole room collapsed and the mountain exploded. She looked at Takato, who was now unrecognizable. His eyes glowed with a fiery crimson, and his hair seemed to have changed to a clearer color, like a dark blonde. He looked a lot taller, too, but that was until she realized he was actually floating in midair. Geysers of lava gushed out again and again, and the whole room was now filled with lava, which was already spreading through the whole maze of passages and rooms in the mountain, destroying everything it found. But Takato was somehow making sure Rosemon and the Lilymon weren't touched by the lava. Rosemon fixed her eyes on Takato's red orbs. Takato blinked. Rosemon blinked, too. And she felt an incredible peace taking over her. She looked at the Lilymon, who seemed to share her same feeling of content.
"I am honored……that in my last hour, I have witnessed the power of God."
"We are happy we met you." The Lilymon said together. Takato smiled. Rosemon and the Lilymon smiled back. Then, they were no more.
Takato gathered Rosemon's data with the rest he had accumulated. The Lilymon's data soon followed. His smile disappeared and he looked at the passage Rika had went through a while before. Then, he looked at the passage he had used to enter the room, and the same the enemies had used to leave.
"Fools………no one escapes the Chaos."
With that said, Takato emptied his lungs with the most powerful cry ever heard in the Digital World. As he released the gathered data in one massive shockwave of Digital Energy, the walls, the floor, and the air itself began to crack and shatter into data, which only joined the data which was being released, creating an unstoppable chain of events that only led to absolute destruction. Lava filled the entire mountain and began to pour out of the entrances, spreading outside and adding to the fire that had almost destroyed the forest.
Eventually, the pressure pushing the insides of the mountain became too much, and the stone walls gave away, bursting into data that added to the already endless spiral of destruction. The entire mountain seemed to glow for a second, then everything went dark, and every sound was swallowed by an invisible veil.
And finally, the mountain now-turned-volcano exploded, transforming everything into a sea of flames.
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End of chapter 16…………………
Author's Notes: This chapter took FOREVER!!! God, it was long…and exhausting, but I'm really happy with the result. Two chapters left! As always, thanks for your patience, and I'm very, very, very, very, very, very sorry for taking so long to do this!!!! I'm just waaaaaaay too busy lately! Anyway, no time for comments, please review! Any questions gladly accepted, that's what my e-mail's for!
(The Biggest Dreamer starts playing)
Takato's Voice: Humans are fragile creatures. So strong, yet they cripple and eventually turn into dust. Life is a fragile thing, cursed to reach an end. Everything is nothing, yet its nothingness holds the meaning of everything. We have reached a crossroad.
……a young girl, torn between love and loss…………
……an army of children, marching to their final battle as Digimon Tamers…………
……an army of adults, facing a challenge none of them asked for………
……a lone woman, whose soul has been crushed and destroyed………
……a vengeful Digimon, consumed by hatred and greed………
……a holy Digimon, who must choose between fate and will………
……a dying Digimon, who only wishes to die with his Tamer………
…………so many lives, now in the hands of one. So many fates, which are now entrusted to me. The time for decision has come. It is now, when the future must be decided. It is now……when the Vessel of God must open the Gates of Destiny.
Next time……Silent Sorrow, Chapter 17: Final Concerto.
Daneel Rush (daneel_ff@hotmail.com)
