Melody: Hola! Sorry it took me so long for the last chap, writers' block
and technical difficulties, the usual.
Izzy: Nah, after hours of gathering data my hypothesis is correct, Forlorn Melody is just a lazy bum.
Melody: Who let you in here? There's room for only one genius in this room!
Willis: And that's me!
Melody: Not my exact words...anyway, here's the "Writer's Applause."
**** miaow227: Man, I'm sorry, physics....*shudder* well, I'm pleased that you liked the Takari. (By the way, you may or may not like this chapter.)
Hazy: I like the name, kinda reminds of how my mind behaves most of the time. Anyway, thanks for the support. Takari will be 4-eva in my heart.
Melody: Okay which genius is going to the disclaimer? Hmm...Willis, you're the next victim.
Willis: Fine. Many studies show that Forlorn Melody does NOT own Digimon.
Melody: By the way, I updated my story on fictionpress.com, so if you're bored, READ IT! Another thing, this chapter includes minor language and um...stuff.
Chapter 6: Geometry of Love
Piedmon snarled. Everything with Tai and Jael were developing nicely at the moment. Though a new obstacle appeared in Piedmon's plan. T.K. had admitted his love for Kari. The Jester would have to find some way to counter that. What could he use? There had to be something....
Once again Piedmon summoned his "visionary puddle." It formed like before, waiting for its master's request. Piedmon touched the floating water this time, and searched T.K Takashi's memory. Many girls flashed before his eyes and were gone. Some of them showed interest in T.K., but they seemed to disappear from the blonde's thought as quickly as they came. Of course Kari was found constantly inside T.K's recollection, but she wasn't was Piedmon was looking for. At last something caught the jokers attention. A blonde like T.K., standing in front of what seemed like a French mansion. The joker digimon reached further and found her name, Catherine. Moments later, she was even kissed by both T.K. and Tai.
Piedmon laughed maniacally at the thought of it. It would be easy to tear Kari and T.K. apart! Then they would be weak against Piedmon's army. A plan to retrieve Catherine formed in his mind. The joker gathered some of the water and watched as it mutated into a phone. Dialing the number, Piedmon came up with a clever lie.
"Hello. CONGRATULATIONS! You have won a free trip to Colorado." Piedmon nearly shouted to the other line.
*Meanwhile at Willis's House*
The sun began to sink beneath the horizon. Night crept upon the small farm, almost unseen. Mist slipped unto the fields. It wasn't the normal mist, thick fog, hiding almost anything beyond a few feet. Within the haze arose many creatures of the shadow, waiting for the opportune time to attack.
Inside the farmhouse the Digidestined finished cleaning the ruins of Willis's computer. Sad, sullen looks were displayed on their faces. A bit of fear revealed itself in their eyes. The digidestined had come so close to finding a way to combat Piedmon's power, and were quickly defeated.
Within them stood Tai Kamiya, his chocolate eyes still staring to where Jael had stood a few hours before. His gaze drifted to the clock near the door. Suddenly Tai gasped. It was time to be eating with Jael! Tai turned to the others, "Uh, sorry guys, looks like it's time for me to go."
Across from him was Matt. His expression turned from defeat to anger. "Tai, you can't be serious! At time like this you're just going to leave us to fight Piedmon without you?"
Tai paused, something within him fought. Could it have been reason? Though Insanity had woven her webs of deception around Tai's brain. "Of course I am. You can take Piedmon without me." His words were monotone, like the leader was in a trance. With that comment, Tai left the room, running towards the barn.
*In Jael's room*
The area was dim, filled with more mist than the outside. Jael stood in its center. Her eyes were deep with concentration. Meanwhile her curly hair blew in an unfelt wind. In front of Jael was the silhouette of Piedmon.
"Make sure to keep child of courage busy. I need time to snatch his sister." The joker commanded with his sick smile.
Jael's eyes went wide. She recalled the victim's face. Kari Kamiya, with scarlet brown eyes, beautiful hair, and innocent face. 'This is who Piedmon's after?' The girl had seemed so kind and caring, and the Dark Master was going to destroy her?
"Of course I want the light child, she has power I want." Piedmon laughed.
Jael felt nauseous. Then she kicked herself mentally. 'Power! What else could it be? How sick can this guy get?"
"Do whatever it takes, servant."
"Make out with him, I can do that." Jael clenched her teeth into a forced smile, trying to hide the shock.
"That might not be enough."
The girl felt that she was about to puke. Suddenly Piedmon vanished, leaving an empty room. She scrutinized the place she was in. Within it was a couch, in front of a table. Jael pulled out a cardboard box from underneath the furniture. In it were incense candles. Taking out the right flavor, Jael placed them around the room lighting them as she went.
Next Jael began preparing the food. Steam rose from the small stove. Jael began pouring ingredients into the pot. A smell emanated from the cuisine that slightly made her feel better.
*Outside*
Tai Kamiya reached the hayloft. He knocked on the door mechanically. His heart beat faster with excitement. Fantasies soared through Tai's brain as he waited. They kept his mind distracted, so Tai wouldn't notice the scubamon around him.
Finally a voice rang out from inside the building. "Come in, there should be a ladder for you to use!"
Tai pushed the huge doors open. Just as the girl had said, there was a ladder leaning against the upper level of the red structure. The leader dragged his feet towards it. Climbing up it, Tai didn't become aware of the fog permeating through the area. In front of him was a wall with a doorway. Hanging from it was strings of beads.
As Tai entered through them, he smelled the heavy incense and the food on the coffee table. Fried rice, sushi, and soy sauce lay on plates in front of it. Though, even more stunning was the girl beyond. Jael sat on the couch; her hair hung freely from her head. She wore a low-cut shirt with a button up button up blouse over it. Her pants were baggy as usual and solid black. Even Jael's lips seemed redder tonight.
"Hello Tai, come sit down." Jael spoke seductively as she patted the spot next to her.
He obeyed her command eagerly. Tai could barely concentrate on the meal. His hormones were raging through his body. Drooling, Tai leaned towards Jael's face. Though a hand stopped him. It was Jael's, and a grin was on her face.
"Silly, eat first, then comes the fun." She was laughing.
Tai pouted. Then he turned his attention to the stuff in front of him. Suddenly Tai was hungry, and he realized that he hadn't eaten. He began stuffing his face. Jael was slightly appalled at the boy in front of her. Though she began eating the food, but nibbling it instead. Moments later Tai's portion was gone, and he was no longer famished. Reaching for a paper napkin, Jael wiped the mess on Tai's mouth. Next she cleared the leftovers off the table.
Jael returned. She draped herself on one end of the couch. Tai felt he was going to faint. Then he couldn't wait anymore. Wrapping his hand around Jael's hair, Tai pulled her lips towards his. Her lips were soft. Slowly, Tai started to feel drowsy. The kiss deepened. His caresses traveled down Jael's neck. Feeling the warmth of her body, Tai felt even sleepier. Though another thought formed in his mind. Unbuttoning her over- shirt, Tai fell asleep, nearly on top of Jael.
The girl breathed a sigh of relief. Jael wouldn't have to go so far to distract this guy. She glanced at Tai's hair. Gigantic, brown, and out of control it was. Tai's mane seemed quite familiar. Then Jael could finally swallow the hard truth. This was the same person she had crushed on so long ago. Soon Tai's sister would most likely be dead within a few hours. Everything would be Jael's fault.
Something interrupted her guilt. Tai had started to snore. 'Well, he won't be awake for a few hours.' Jael thought as she checked the time, almost ten o'clock at night. Time went by fast.
Out of nowhere a knock sounded from below. "Damn!" Jael cursed under her breath. She gently released herself from Tai's grasp and laid him on the furniture. He flinched a little, but didn't awake. Quietly, Jael paced towards the beaded doorway. Climbing down the ladder, she wondered who was there. Could someone know that Jael was working for Piedmon?
Jael pulled one of the doors open. On the other side was Matt Ishida. His eyes went wide at the sight of her garb. The girl in front of him quickly buttoned her shirt.
"What do you want?" Jael snapped. Her gaze narrowed into a glare.
"Calm down, I was just checking up on Tai. He's been gone for hours, and everyone back at the house was wondering if he was okay." Matt retorted, raising his hands in friendly defense.
"Tai's sleeping, you can have him back in the morning."
"What? He's asleep? What the world have you guys been doing?"
"I'm sorry but that's none of your business." Jael was becoming impatient.
Matt paused. Something seemed terribly wrong. The way Jael had Tai wrapped around her finger. Tai was more than lovesick, like Jael was controlling him. Could she be one of Piedmon's servants? Suddenly the puzzle pieces were falling into place. Piedmon was using Jael to get to Tai to get to Kari.
"You sick person! How could you use Tai like that? He might actually love you. Of course you don't care, you want his sister, don't you?" Matt yelled accusingly.
Jael's frown turned into an evil smirk. "Wow, you're smarter than I thought. Too bad though, you know too much Matt Ishida. You're in my way. I guess I'll just have to get rid of you." She paused, snapping her fingers. Dozens of scubamon surrounded them. "Take him with you, this pretty boy's getting into trouble. We'll have to send him to time out."
The scubamon nodded and snarled as they took hold of Matt's arms. He immediately struggled against them. "YOU CAN'T DO THIS!"
"Oh? But I can. You've forgotten one very important thing, Matt. You're deceptable to the power of the Dark Ocean."
Matt jerked away once more. "I swear when I get my hands on you...." Though Jael never heard the end of his threat. For the scubamon had placed a damp cloth over his nose. He fell unconscious for the smell was too strong. Moments later the teenager was carried away into the fog, towards the Dark Ocean.
*At Willis's Place*
At last the digidestined finished cleaning up the damage. The room seemed totally different from the way it had before. Though there was still an empty, blackened space where the computer was kept. Sitting down, Davis dictated "man, I'm exhausted. Willis, you have any food?
Cody laughed, "Davis, you barely did anything but rest the whole time we were cleaning!"
Davis didn't seem to be embarrassed much as the rest were laughing at him. "Well any athlete knows to take plenty of breaks." He argued as he put his hands on his head. The laughing became worse. Everyone was turning red they were giggling so heartily.
Though Kari was the first to stop. A sullen look was on her face. " I'm really sorry about all this. You're sure that computer wasn't too important? I mean, what are you going to tell your parents?"
"Eh, don't worry, I'll just tell them that I sent back for another one. As for food, I'll order a pizza."
"You okay Kari?" T.K. asked as he wrapped his arm around her shoulder.
"Yeah. I'm just worried about Tai. He's been acting so strange. I hope he's okay."
T.K. looked at her with concern. A slight smile appeared on his face, "I'm sure he can take care of himself. Besides, Tai's the older sibling. Isn't he supposed to be worrying about you instead?"
Kari giggled half-heartily. Davis, across the room had a strange look on his face. It was of betrayal. Without thinking, he yelled, "I thought we made a deal T.B."
"What deal?" T.K. asked.
"You know what I mean."
Suddenly T.K. recalled the scene in the airplane bathroom. He had told Davis not to flirt with Kari. Yet here T.K. was, wrapping his arm around her shoulder. Guilt washed over him. A sinister voice materialized inside T.K's head 'Hypocrite.' T.K. removed his arm from Kari's shoulder. His gaze fell to the floor, studying the patterns in the rug.
The doorbell rang. Willis exited the room. Minutes later he brought the pizza. A familiar scent of meat, veggies, and bread filled the air. Everyone present had their mouth watering. Soon the delicious food was gone. Then Fatigue began to reveal himself in the Digidestined's bodies.
"Well, if you guys need something to sleep on, I have a few mats and sleeping bags in the closet over there." Willis suggested, walking towards the sliding doors. He fought against the stubborn doors.
Davis followed Willis to help. After a few tugs and pushes, the doors budged. Without warning, clutter tumbled out of the storage space. Willis and Davis were quickly buried under the ruble. Yolie proceeded towards the mess and picked up a sleeping bag.
"Thanks for getting something for me to sleep on you guys." The purple girl with purple hair mocked.
One by one the digidestined lined up and snatched some sleeping materials for them too. Though T.K. stayed in his moping position. He was overwhelmed with guilt. The boy had betrayed a friend's trust that had taken forever to earn. It would be years before Davis considered T.K. Takashi as a friend again.
Suddenly a voice interrupted T.K's thoughts. "T.K.! There isn't anything left. If you want, you can have mine."
Finally he glanced away from the rug. T.K's gaze met Kari's. "That's okay, keep them, I'll just use the floor."
"Yeah, and get a sore back in the morning. No way." Kari retorted.
"Kari..." T.K. whined, a pleading look in his eyes.
Willis watched the scene and laughed silently. "You know, if you two keep arguing like that, I'll have to intervene." He paused and glanced at his watch. "Time's up." The blonde boy waltzed over to Kari and T.K. Wrapping his arm around both the blonde boy and the brunette, Willis continued, "Well...I can't believe I have to say this, share you two, and if you don't, I'll have to send both of you to time-out." Slowly removing his arms from the couple's shoulders, Willis watched their reaction.
Red, hot blood rushed to T.K's and Kari's faces. They wouldn't look each other in the eye. T.K. stared at the ceiling this time while Kari tried to entertain herself with floor patterns. It wasn't until everyone else had unrolled their makeshift beds, that Kari and T.K. moved again. Kari dragged herself to the last of the sleeping materials. She picked it up lightly.
"Well? Aren't you going to help me? I'm not going to wait all night." Kari chided playfully.
"Yes your highness. I'll shall do your bidding." T.K. retorted; the sea in his eyes shining playfully.
He took the rolled up mat from Kari's arms. Unrolling it, T.K. set the sleeping bag on the floor. Immediately following, Kari unzipped the soft material, until it was completely inside out. Then T.K. left and returned with a single pillow. By the time this happened, Kari was already resting on the thick blanket. Gingerly T.K. lied down on the soft textile. A soft pillow moved under his head. T.K. glanced next to him; Kari rested her head on his chest, using the blonde boy as a cushion.
Yolie was still awake. She sat in an upright position, witnessing the lovebirds across the room. The girl sighed as she folded her arms.
"What's wrong Yolie?" A soft voice asked. It came from Ken's lips. His eyes were blue and soulful. A concerned expression hung over Ken's features as he waited for Yolie's reaction.
She didn't turn her head as she responded, "Why do they always get the romance Ken?"
He seemed to pause, thinking over the question. "Well, Willis was flirting with you earlier."
Yolie rested her head and closed her eyes. "That's not the same thing."
Ken lied down and turned to watch the girl next to him. Yolie did have an obvious crush on him when he was the Digimon Emperor. Then again, so did every other girl in Japan. Another thing, Yolie seemed to obsess over every guy that breathed. Did she still like him? Had Yolie truly forgiven him for the horrid things Ken had done? Only the future would tell.
T.K. had already begun to dream. A deep mist clouded his apparition. The blonde boy tried to find his way out of the fog. Though it was an endless cloud, and there appeared to be nothing inside it. Then suddenly something did appear. Gradually the haze faded. It revealed Kari, though her usually happy face shone with anger and mistrust.
'But Kari loves me doesn't she? Why is she so mad?' He thought with concern and surprise. Without warning, soft, pale hands wrapped around T.K's neck from behind. Wavy, golden locks of hair fell on the blonde boy's shoulder. A light, warm body pushed up against his. Gently, a silky cheek brushed T.K's face.
" ' Hello Takeru.' " A feminine voice greeted him. The voice had a strong French accent.
" 'Catherine. ' " T.K. stated in despair.
It wasn't her presence that bothered him; it was Kari. She was crying, with crystalline tears streaming down her face. Kari slowly began to back away. Then she ran, and the fog around them turned into a flood. The water began to rise around Kari's knees, then her waist, and lastly her shoulders. A wave swept her away, with Kari's screams dying in the roar.
T.K. woke up with a sweat. Something was wrong. He checked on Kari. She seemed fine, a smile on her dreaming lips. The blonde surveyed the remainder of the digidestined. They were also fast asleep. Though something was missing, or someone. 'Matt...Tai, they're still not back yet?' Looking at the clock, T.K. realized it was midnight. Tai had been gone for at least six hours. Matt had left two hours ago. 'Where in the Digital World could they be?' Maybe they had returned, but had fallen asleep somewhere else. Yes and the nightmare T.K. had wasn't a vision. Catherine would never come to Colorado, let alone Willis's farm. Everything would be fine, or so T.K. thought as he brought the girl closer and slept.
Kari was also having nightmares. Except this dream was actually a replay of her past.
~* Flashback *~
She was running, with T.K. not far behind her. Suddenly T.K. caught something in his hands, Matt. The key chain was surprisingly realistic up close. As Kari and T.K. pushed open the ominous iron doors, they heard Sora behind them. Piedmon had silenced her too. Now T.K., Kari and Patamon were alone with the Joker.
"Look. Let's run." T.K. suggested as the gates finally gave way.
"We've run out of room." Kari whimpered as they dashed outside.
They were on a huge balcony. It was made out of gray marble. Unfortunately there was no exit except the way they came. T.K. and Kari were doomed.
"This wasn't the escape plan I had in mind." T.K. complained as he ran to the far end of the battlement. It was a long way down. At the bottom of the abyss were tall pointed rocks. They seemed as if they could slice anything that happened to fall on them.
"Now what?" Patamon asked.
"Can we jump?" T.K. pondered as he leaned over the railing.
"It's too far." Kari cried, also considering the enormous drop.
A string of maniacal laughter sounded from behind them. Piedmon was getting closer. It wouldn't be too long before T.K. and Kari joined the other digidestined in the Joker's collection. "Welcome to the dead end, call me a kitten like a friend." The Dark Master taunted.
"We can't just stand here." Kari was beginning to sound like her brother.
"We've got no choice, we have to climb down." T.K. shouted.
"It's too high T.K., if we jump, we're goners."
"Kari, we're going to have to try."
Without warning Patamon flew to the center of the parapet. There was a woven basket. "Where'd that basket come from?" He questioned the air.
"Who put that there?" T.K. asked, opening the mysterious object. Inside was some rope. "A rope! We can use it to climb down...AHH!" Suddenly the cord shot into the clouds.
"I didn't know that you were a snake charmer T.K." Patamon stated.
"Do you think we should climb it?" Kari suggested.
"I don't know, my mom said never to take candy or rope from strangers." T.K. responded, tugging the cable to test its strength. It seemed tight enough to hold the both of them. "Looks dangerous, you go first."
"Oh." Kari murmured as she began ascending it. She was making progress when T.K. followed.
"That's it Kari, just pretend you're in gym class. Listen!" T.K. encouraged as he heard a noise.
"Open!" Piedmon commanded as the doors shattered. "I must witness...this costs me a fortune in new doors."
Patamon digivolved into Angemon. The angel fought with Piedmon. It seemed for a moment that Angemon might be winning.
"You get him Angemon!" T.K. cheered. Suddenly the battle turned for the worse. Piedmon countered one of Angemon's attacks, throwing him off the balcony.
"Angemon NO!" Kari cried as she stopped climbing.
"Don't give up! Angemon no."
Kari held on to the rope for dear life. "T.K. I'm scared."
"It's going to be okay." Tears were streaming down T.K's face. He was no longer trying to convince Kari, T.K. didn't believe his own words. "Angemon will be fine, but you've got to keep on climbing. Don't let that joker Piedmon scare you."
"Okay. AHH!" Kari ducked just in time to see a knife fly over her head. It sliced the cord, leaving them stranded.
"You've reached the end of your rope." Piedmon teased.
"T.K.!" Angemon shouted from below.
Without warning Piedmon grabbed T.K's shoe and was pulling him down. "Sorry if I give you a wedgie." Kari wouldn't let the joker take her last hope. She clutched T.K's hand.
" Let go Kari, or he'll get you too!"
"I won't let go of you T.K.!"
Piedmon interrupted their conversation. He cut the rope below them as he shouted, "Looks like you two are falling for each other!"
Kari screamed as she plummeted from the sky. She waited for T.K. to save the day with his crest, but nothing happened. Next thing Kari knew, she was in Piedmon's arms. He held a knife to her throat. The cold, sharp metal was getting closer....
~* End Flashback *~
A/N: Just to let you know, that took me 20 minutes to right down, then a hour to type it. So you better like it.
Kari woke up with cold sweat lining her body. She breath heavily as she jerked out of T.K's arms and sat up. The room was silent, with no evil digimon in sight. One thing bothered her though, why did all her dreams end with Kari in Piedmon's embrace? Scanning the computer lab, Kari searched for any other signs of danger. There were none. T.K. was adorable when he slept, his mouth hanging open and his hair in every direction. Sighing, Kari lied down again and attempted to slumber.
*Outside*
The sun crept over the Rocky Mountains. They rose majestically over the plains. Mother Nature had made certain that it was a beautiful morning. Only a few fluffy clouds were in the sky. A slight wind blew through the crisp air. Though there was something Nature had not caused, the fog. It hung over Willis's farm like a blanket.
One person pushed through it in a hurry. Her delicate blonde hair blew in the breeze. Though the attractive girl didn't seem to care at the moment. Catherine just wanted to be inside the house. The whole "prize" really startled her. From the sinister redheaded man at the airport, to the mysterious weather the ranch had. All the greeter did was grin evilly, hand her a picture and direct her to a taxi.
Though Catherine didn't mind the photograph. It displayed a brunette with spiky hair. He was athletic and held a soccer ball in his hands. The boy wore a set of goggles in his mane. Even the grin on his face was to die for. Catherine wondered what country he was from. Analyzing the picture some more, Catherine thought to herself. 'He doesn't look American, maybe he's Japanese.' That seemed right. Both the boys that visited Catherine during the digimon incident were from Japan. One of them looked like he was related to the boy in the photo.
*Back to the adorable people sleeping*
T.K. stretched his arms and yawned. When he finished waking up, T.K. studied the scene around him. Kari was already astir, a solemn expression on her face. Gradually the other digidestined rose up around them. Davis still had the hurt expression of betrayal. As soon as T.K's gaze met his, the goggled leader glared angrily. Across the room Ken was trying to disturb Yolie from her slumber. It wasn't going so well. Yolie repeatedly smacked Ken in the face, saying "It's a Saturday, come on, it's too early."
At last Cody dumped water on the girl's head. "Hey...oh, this isn't my room." Yolie said blankly. Gradually crimson crept into her cheeks when Yolie realized what was going on. Ken was rubbing his bruised face gingerly. "Sorry Ken, I thought you were my sister." The girl apologized.
Laughter followed, the digidestined no able longer able to keep it in. Though T.K. was the first to stop. His sea colored eyes went wide. Directly across the room was a blonde girl his age. Her eyes were sky-blue, and they studied everyone in the area in detail. At last Catherine's gaze rested upon Davis. She watched his eyes alternate from staring at Kari longingly to glaring at T.K. A smile formed on Catherine's lips as she saw the reason behind Davis's behavior.
T.K. stood as he greeted the French girl. "Bon jour Catherine. Meet my friends Davis, Kari, Yolie, Ken, Cody, and Willis." Next T.K. introduced the digimon.
Catherine came closer as T.K. was talking. "Any way, how are...?" Though the blonde boy was interrupted. He was being kissed; French style by the girl in front of him. T.K. fought his hormones as he looked at Kari. Her face was identical to the one in the nightmare. His dream was coming true! The heart inside T.K. sank into his stomach. 'Why do these things always happen to me?'
Meanwhile Kari observed the spectacle. Betrayal lined her features. T.K. said that he loved her, but now he was smacking some random girl on the lips. Kari was angry, mournful, and glad simultaneously.
Suddenly the door creaked open behind her. A guy about as young as Ken stepped beside. He had curly red hair, and brown eyes. There was something mysterious, almost sinister about them. The teen was tall, taller than T.K., and he had black clothes, and spiked jewelry. Following him were Tai and Matt, though they seemed different. Their eyes were empty, like they were in a trance. Without saying a word, Kari's and T.K's brothers sat down across the room. Catherine stopped kissing T.K. as the redheaded boy began to speak. 'He looks a lot like that guy at the airport.'
"Sorry to interrupt your morning, but these two got lost in the fog outside." He apologized coolly.
"That's okay...thanks for the help." Kari chimed as she shook the guy's hand.
Instantly her eyes locked with his. Kari lost control of her mind as the teen searched her gaze. Everything turned gray and white in Kari thoughts, except for the newcomer.
"Hi, pleased to meet you, call me Hunter." The redhead greeted as he knelt down and brought Kari's hand to his lips.
"I'm Kari." She answered in a daze. 'Wow, this guy is cute, almost as much as T.K.' Kari thought absent-mindedly. Then an idea formed in her head. 'If T.K. wants to be a player, then I guess I will be one too.' "Want to get a bite to eat?"
"I'd love to...Kari." Hunter whispered, standing up again.
Cody also rose from his sleeping bag, "You sure this is a good idea?"
Gatomon rested on her pillow. "Yeah, who knows what's waiting outside." She added with concern.
"I'll be fine." Kari stated as she took Hunter's hand in her own. They exited the room and headed into the fields outside the farmhouse.
* At the barn *
Jael opened her eyes and stretched her arms. Her alarm was beeping, loudly. Sitting upright in confusion, Jael thought to herself, 'What? I never set that thing when I'm off duty.' Sunlight was streaming through the sole window of the loft. It was still dim outside, stating that it was still sunrise. Wait...on no. Nice going Jael, sleeping through your own alarm clock for almost six hours! Great, I'm dead now.'
In a hurry Jael gathered her stuff together as she plotted her doomed escape. On her kitchen table lay a single picture and a map. The picture was of a bridge high above the deep waters of the nearby river. Meanwhile the map showed a highlighted route on which to get to the landmark. Jael smiled. She had planned to visit the bridge and take pictures of the animals around. 'So much for that idea.'
Then an another notion formed in her mind. It would be much less painful to drown, than to endure Piedmon's furry. Jael scribbled down a short note to Tai.
'Dear Tai, I'm sorry about everything. Just to let you know, I really did start to love you. I hope you'll miss me when I'm gone, and that you'll be able to save your sister.
Love Sankyo Jael'
Jael signed her name and left the note next to the picture. Stealing one last glance at Tai, she headed for the ladder. Then the curly headed girl dashed towards her death.
Melody: Dun Dun Dun that's the cliffhanger people. Just so you know, I got the idea for Jael's last name from the brand name of the flute I play.
Izzy: Nah, after hours of gathering data my hypothesis is correct, Forlorn Melody is just a lazy bum.
Melody: Who let you in here? There's room for only one genius in this room!
Willis: And that's me!
Melody: Not my exact words...anyway, here's the "Writer's Applause."
**** miaow227: Man, I'm sorry, physics....*shudder* well, I'm pleased that you liked the Takari. (By the way, you may or may not like this chapter.)
Hazy: I like the name, kinda reminds of how my mind behaves most of the time. Anyway, thanks for the support. Takari will be 4-eva in my heart.
Melody: Okay which genius is going to the disclaimer? Hmm...Willis, you're the next victim.
Willis: Fine. Many studies show that Forlorn Melody does NOT own Digimon.
Melody: By the way, I updated my story on fictionpress.com, so if you're bored, READ IT! Another thing, this chapter includes minor language and um...stuff.
Chapter 6: Geometry of Love
Piedmon snarled. Everything with Tai and Jael were developing nicely at the moment. Though a new obstacle appeared in Piedmon's plan. T.K. had admitted his love for Kari. The Jester would have to find some way to counter that. What could he use? There had to be something....
Once again Piedmon summoned his "visionary puddle." It formed like before, waiting for its master's request. Piedmon touched the floating water this time, and searched T.K Takashi's memory. Many girls flashed before his eyes and were gone. Some of them showed interest in T.K., but they seemed to disappear from the blonde's thought as quickly as they came. Of course Kari was found constantly inside T.K's recollection, but she wasn't was Piedmon was looking for. At last something caught the jokers attention. A blonde like T.K., standing in front of what seemed like a French mansion. The joker digimon reached further and found her name, Catherine. Moments later, she was even kissed by both T.K. and Tai.
Piedmon laughed maniacally at the thought of it. It would be easy to tear Kari and T.K. apart! Then they would be weak against Piedmon's army. A plan to retrieve Catherine formed in his mind. The joker gathered some of the water and watched as it mutated into a phone. Dialing the number, Piedmon came up with a clever lie.
"Hello. CONGRATULATIONS! You have won a free trip to Colorado." Piedmon nearly shouted to the other line.
*Meanwhile at Willis's House*
The sun began to sink beneath the horizon. Night crept upon the small farm, almost unseen. Mist slipped unto the fields. It wasn't the normal mist, thick fog, hiding almost anything beyond a few feet. Within the haze arose many creatures of the shadow, waiting for the opportune time to attack.
Inside the farmhouse the Digidestined finished cleaning the ruins of Willis's computer. Sad, sullen looks were displayed on their faces. A bit of fear revealed itself in their eyes. The digidestined had come so close to finding a way to combat Piedmon's power, and were quickly defeated.
Within them stood Tai Kamiya, his chocolate eyes still staring to where Jael had stood a few hours before. His gaze drifted to the clock near the door. Suddenly Tai gasped. It was time to be eating with Jael! Tai turned to the others, "Uh, sorry guys, looks like it's time for me to go."
Across from him was Matt. His expression turned from defeat to anger. "Tai, you can't be serious! At time like this you're just going to leave us to fight Piedmon without you?"
Tai paused, something within him fought. Could it have been reason? Though Insanity had woven her webs of deception around Tai's brain. "Of course I am. You can take Piedmon without me." His words were monotone, like the leader was in a trance. With that comment, Tai left the room, running towards the barn.
*In Jael's room*
The area was dim, filled with more mist than the outside. Jael stood in its center. Her eyes were deep with concentration. Meanwhile her curly hair blew in an unfelt wind. In front of Jael was the silhouette of Piedmon.
"Make sure to keep child of courage busy. I need time to snatch his sister." The joker commanded with his sick smile.
Jael's eyes went wide. She recalled the victim's face. Kari Kamiya, with scarlet brown eyes, beautiful hair, and innocent face. 'This is who Piedmon's after?' The girl had seemed so kind and caring, and the Dark Master was going to destroy her?
"Of course I want the light child, she has power I want." Piedmon laughed.
Jael felt nauseous. Then she kicked herself mentally. 'Power! What else could it be? How sick can this guy get?"
"Do whatever it takes, servant."
"Make out with him, I can do that." Jael clenched her teeth into a forced smile, trying to hide the shock.
"That might not be enough."
The girl felt that she was about to puke. Suddenly Piedmon vanished, leaving an empty room. She scrutinized the place she was in. Within it was a couch, in front of a table. Jael pulled out a cardboard box from underneath the furniture. In it were incense candles. Taking out the right flavor, Jael placed them around the room lighting them as she went.
Next Jael began preparing the food. Steam rose from the small stove. Jael began pouring ingredients into the pot. A smell emanated from the cuisine that slightly made her feel better.
*Outside*
Tai Kamiya reached the hayloft. He knocked on the door mechanically. His heart beat faster with excitement. Fantasies soared through Tai's brain as he waited. They kept his mind distracted, so Tai wouldn't notice the scubamon around him.
Finally a voice rang out from inside the building. "Come in, there should be a ladder for you to use!"
Tai pushed the huge doors open. Just as the girl had said, there was a ladder leaning against the upper level of the red structure. The leader dragged his feet towards it. Climbing up it, Tai didn't become aware of the fog permeating through the area. In front of him was a wall with a doorway. Hanging from it was strings of beads.
As Tai entered through them, he smelled the heavy incense and the food on the coffee table. Fried rice, sushi, and soy sauce lay on plates in front of it. Though, even more stunning was the girl beyond. Jael sat on the couch; her hair hung freely from her head. She wore a low-cut shirt with a button up button up blouse over it. Her pants were baggy as usual and solid black. Even Jael's lips seemed redder tonight.
"Hello Tai, come sit down." Jael spoke seductively as she patted the spot next to her.
He obeyed her command eagerly. Tai could barely concentrate on the meal. His hormones were raging through his body. Drooling, Tai leaned towards Jael's face. Though a hand stopped him. It was Jael's, and a grin was on her face.
"Silly, eat first, then comes the fun." She was laughing.
Tai pouted. Then he turned his attention to the stuff in front of him. Suddenly Tai was hungry, and he realized that he hadn't eaten. He began stuffing his face. Jael was slightly appalled at the boy in front of her. Though she began eating the food, but nibbling it instead. Moments later Tai's portion was gone, and he was no longer famished. Reaching for a paper napkin, Jael wiped the mess on Tai's mouth. Next she cleared the leftovers off the table.
Jael returned. She draped herself on one end of the couch. Tai felt he was going to faint. Then he couldn't wait anymore. Wrapping his hand around Jael's hair, Tai pulled her lips towards his. Her lips were soft. Slowly, Tai started to feel drowsy. The kiss deepened. His caresses traveled down Jael's neck. Feeling the warmth of her body, Tai felt even sleepier. Though another thought formed in his mind. Unbuttoning her over- shirt, Tai fell asleep, nearly on top of Jael.
The girl breathed a sigh of relief. Jael wouldn't have to go so far to distract this guy. She glanced at Tai's hair. Gigantic, brown, and out of control it was. Tai's mane seemed quite familiar. Then Jael could finally swallow the hard truth. This was the same person she had crushed on so long ago. Soon Tai's sister would most likely be dead within a few hours. Everything would be Jael's fault.
Something interrupted her guilt. Tai had started to snore. 'Well, he won't be awake for a few hours.' Jael thought as she checked the time, almost ten o'clock at night. Time went by fast.
Out of nowhere a knock sounded from below. "Damn!" Jael cursed under her breath. She gently released herself from Tai's grasp and laid him on the furniture. He flinched a little, but didn't awake. Quietly, Jael paced towards the beaded doorway. Climbing down the ladder, she wondered who was there. Could someone know that Jael was working for Piedmon?
Jael pulled one of the doors open. On the other side was Matt Ishida. His eyes went wide at the sight of her garb. The girl in front of him quickly buttoned her shirt.
"What do you want?" Jael snapped. Her gaze narrowed into a glare.
"Calm down, I was just checking up on Tai. He's been gone for hours, and everyone back at the house was wondering if he was okay." Matt retorted, raising his hands in friendly defense.
"Tai's sleeping, you can have him back in the morning."
"What? He's asleep? What the world have you guys been doing?"
"I'm sorry but that's none of your business." Jael was becoming impatient.
Matt paused. Something seemed terribly wrong. The way Jael had Tai wrapped around her finger. Tai was more than lovesick, like Jael was controlling him. Could she be one of Piedmon's servants? Suddenly the puzzle pieces were falling into place. Piedmon was using Jael to get to Tai to get to Kari.
"You sick person! How could you use Tai like that? He might actually love you. Of course you don't care, you want his sister, don't you?" Matt yelled accusingly.
Jael's frown turned into an evil smirk. "Wow, you're smarter than I thought. Too bad though, you know too much Matt Ishida. You're in my way. I guess I'll just have to get rid of you." She paused, snapping her fingers. Dozens of scubamon surrounded them. "Take him with you, this pretty boy's getting into trouble. We'll have to send him to time out."
The scubamon nodded and snarled as they took hold of Matt's arms. He immediately struggled against them. "YOU CAN'T DO THIS!"
"Oh? But I can. You've forgotten one very important thing, Matt. You're deceptable to the power of the Dark Ocean."
Matt jerked away once more. "I swear when I get my hands on you...." Though Jael never heard the end of his threat. For the scubamon had placed a damp cloth over his nose. He fell unconscious for the smell was too strong. Moments later the teenager was carried away into the fog, towards the Dark Ocean.
*At Willis's Place*
At last the digidestined finished cleaning up the damage. The room seemed totally different from the way it had before. Though there was still an empty, blackened space where the computer was kept. Sitting down, Davis dictated "man, I'm exhausted. Willis, you have any food?
Cody laughed, "Davis, you barely did anything but rest the whole time we were cleaning!"
Davis didn't seem to be embarrassed much as the rest were laughing at him. "Well any athlete knows to take plenty of breaks." He argued as he put his hands on his head. The laughing became worse. Everyone was turning red they were giggling so heartily.
Though Kari was the first to stop. A sullen look was on her face. " I'm really sorry about all this. You're sure that computer wasn't too important? I mean, what are you going to tell your parents?"
"Eh, don't worry, I'll just tell them that I sent back for another one. As for food, I'll order a pizza."
"You okay Kari?" T.K. asked as he wrapped his arm around her shoulder.
"Yeah. I'm just worried about Tai. He's been acting so strange. I hope he's okay."
T.K. looked at her with concern. A slight smile appeared on his face, "I'm sure he can take care of himself. Besides, Tai's the older sibling. Isn't he supposed to be worrying about you instead?"
Kari giggled half-heartily. Davis, across the room had a strange look on his face. It was of betrayal. Without thinking, he yelled, "I thought we made a deal T.B."
"What deal?" T.K. asked.
"You know what I mean."
Suddenly T.K. recalled the scene in the airplane bathroom. He had told Davis not to flirt with Kari. Yet here T.K. was, wrapping his arm around her shoulder. Guilt washed over him. A sinister voice materialized inside T.K's head 'Hypocrite.' T.K. removed his arm from Kari's shoulder. His gaze fell to the floor, studying the patterns in the rug.
The doorbell rang. Willis exited the room. Minutes later he brought the pizza. A familiar scent of meat, veggies, and bread filled the air. Everyone present had their mouth watering. Soon the delicious food was gone. Then Fatigue began to reveal himself in the Digidestined's bodies.
"Well, if you guys need something to sleep on, I have a few mats and sleeping bags in the closet over there." Willis suggested, walking towards the sliding doors. He fought against the stubborn doors.
Davis followed Willis to help. After a few tugs and pushes, the doors budged. Without warning, clutter tumbled out of the storage space. Willis and Davis were quickly buried under the ruble. Yolie proceeded towards the mess and picked up a sleeping bag.
"Thanks for getting something for me to sleep on you guys." The purple girl with purple hair mocked.
One by one the digidestined lined up and snatched some sleeping materials for them too. Though T.K. stayed in his moping position. He was overwhelmed with guilt. The boy had betrayed a friend's trust that had taken forever to earn. It would be years before Davis considered T.K. Takashi as a friend again.
Suddenly a voice interrupted T.K's thoughts. "T.K.! There isn't anything left. If you want, you can have mine."
Finally he glanced away from the rug. T.K's gaze met Kari's. "That's okay, keep them, I'll just use the floor."
"Yeah, and get a sore back in the morning. No way." Kari retorted.
"Kari..." T.K. whined, a pleading look in his eyes.
Willis watched the scene and laughed silently. "You know, if you two keep arguing like that, I'll have to intervene." He paused and glanced at his watch. "Time's up." The blonde boy waltzed over to Kari and T.K. Wrapping his arm around both the blonde boy and the brunette, Willis continued, "Well...I can't believe I have to say this, share you two, and if you don't, I'll have to send both of you to time-out." Slowly removing his arms from the couple's shoulders, Willis watched their reaction.
Red, hot blood rushed to T.K's and Kari's faces. They wouldn't look each other in the eye. T.K. stared at the ceiling this time while Kari tried to entertain herself with floor patterns. It wasn't until everyone else had unrolled their makeshift beds, that Kari and T.K. moved again. Kari dragged herself to the last of the sleeping materials. She picked it up lightly.
"Well? Aren't you going to help me? I'm not going to wait all night." Kari chided playfully.
"Yes your highness. I'll shall do your bidding." T.K. retorted; the sea in his eyes shining playfully.
He took the rolled up mat from Kari's arms. Unrolling it, T.K. set the sleeping bag on the floor. Immediately following, Kari unzipped the soft material, until it was completely inside out. Then T.K. left and returned with a single pillow. By the time this happened, Kari was already resting on the thick blanket. Gingerly T.K. lied down on the soft textile. A soft pillow moved under his head. T.K. glanced next to him; Kari rested her head on his chest, using the blonde boy as a cushion.
Yolie was still awake. She sat in an upright position, witnessing the lovebirds across the room. The girl sighed as she folded her arms.
"What's wrong Yolie?" A soft voice asked. It came from Ken's lips. His eyes were blue and soulful. A concerned expression hung over Ken's features as he waited for Yolie's reaction.
She didn't turn her head as she responded, "Why do they always get the romance Ken?"
He seemed to pause, thinking over the question. "Well, Willis was flirting with you earlier."
Yolie rested her head and closed her eyes. "That's not the same thing."
Ken lied down and turned to watch the girl next to him. Yolie did have an obvious crush on him when he was the Digimon Emperor. Then again, so did every other girl in Japan. Another thing, Yolie seemed to obsess over every guy that breathed. Did she still like him? Had Yolie truly forgiven him for the horrid things Ken had done? Only the future would tell.
T.K. had already begun to dream. A deep mist clouded his apparition. The blonde boy tried to find his way out of the fog. Though it was an endless cloud, and there appeared to be nothing inside it. Then suddenly something did appear. Gradually the haze faded. It revealed Kari, though her usually happy face shone with anger and mistrust.
'But Kari loves me doesn't she? Why is she so mad?' He thought with concern and surprise. Without warning, soft, pale hands wrapped around T.K's neck from behind. Wavy, golden locks of hair fell on the blonde boy's shoulder. A light, warm body pushed up against his. Gently, a silky cheek brushed T.K's face.
" ' Hello Takeru.' " A feminine voice greeted him. The voice had a strong French accent.
" 'Catherine. ' " T.K. stated in despair.
It wasn't her presence that bothered him; it was Kari. She was crying, with crystalline tears streaming down her face. Kari slowly began to back away. Then she ran, and the fog around them turned into a flood. The water began to rise around Kari's knees, then her waist, and lastly her shoulders. A wave swept her away, with Kari's screams dying in the roar.
T.K. woke up with a sweat. Something was wrong. He checked on Kari. She seemed fine, a smile on her dreaming lips. The blonde surveyed the remainder of the digidestined. They were also fast asleep. Though something was missing, or someone. 'Matt...Tai, they're still not back yet?' Looking at the clock, T.K. realized it was midnight. Tai had been gone for at least six hours. Matt had left two hours ago. 'Where in the Digital World could they be?' Maybe they had returned, but had fallen asleep somewhere else. Yes and the nightmare T.K. had wasn't a vision. Catherine would never come to Colorado, let alone Willis's farm. Everything would be fine, or so T.K. thought as he brought the girl closer and slept.
Kari was also having nightmares. Except this dream was actually a replay of her past.
~* Flashback *~
She was running, with T.K. not far behind her. Suddenly T.K. caught something in his hands, Matt. The key chain was surprisingly realistic up close. As Kari and T.K. pushed open the ominous iron doors, they heard Sora behind them. Piedmon had silenced her too. Now T.K., Kari and Patamon were alone with the Joker.
"Look. Let's run." T.K. suggested as the gates finally gave way.
"We've run out of room." Kari whimpered as they dashed outside.
They were on a huge balcony. It was made out of gray marble. Unfortunately there was no exit except the way they came. T.K. and Kari were doomed.
"This wasn't the escape plan I had in mind." T.K. complained as he ran to the far end of the battlement. It was a long way down. At the bottom of the abyss were tall pointed rocks. They seemed as if they could slice anything that happened to fall on them.
"Now what?" Patamon asked.
"Can we jump?" T.K. pondered as he leaned over the railing.
"It's too far." Kari cried, also considering the enormous drop.
A string of maniacal laughter sounded from behind them. Piedmon was getting closer. It wouldn't be too long before T.K. and Kari joined the other digidestined in the Joker's collection. "Welcome to the dead end, call me a kitten like a friend." The Dark Master taunted.
"We can't just stand here." Kari was beginning to sound like her brother.
"We've got no choice, we have to climb down." T.K. shouted.
"It's too high T.K., if we jump, we're goners."
"Kari, we're going to have to try."
Without warning Patamon flew to the center of the parapet. There was a woven basket. "Where'd that basket come from?" He questioned the air.
"Who put that there?" T.K. asked, opening the mysterious object. Inside was some rope. "A rope! We can use it to climb down...AHH!" Suddenly the cord shot into the clouds.
"I didn't know that you were a snake charmer T.K." Patamon stated.
"Do you think we should climb it?" Kari suggested.
"I don't know, my mom said never to take candy or rope from strangers." T.K. responded, tugging the cable to test its strength. It seemed tight enough to hold the both of them. "Looks dangerous, you go first."
"Oh." Kari murmured as she began ascending it. She was making progress when T.K. followed.
"That's it Kari, just pretend you're in gym class. Listen!" T.K. encouraged as he heard a noise.
"Open!" Piedmon commanded as the doors shattered. "I must witness...this costs me a fortune in new doors."
Patamon digivolved into Angemon. The angel fought with Piedmon. It seemed for a moment that Angemon might be winning.
"You get him Angemon!" T.K. cheered. Suddenly the battle turned for the worse. Piedmon countered one of Angemon's attacks, throwing him off the balcony.
"Angemon NO!" Kari cried as she stopped climbing.
"Don't give up! Angemon no."
Kari held on to the rope for dear life. "T.K. I'm scared."
"It's going to be okay." Tears were streaming down T.K's face. He was no longer trying to convince Kari, T.K. didn't believe his own words. "Angemon will be fine, but you've got to keep on climbing. Don't let that joker Piedmon scare you."
"Okay. AHH!" Kari ducked just in time to see a knife fly over her head. It sliced the cord, leaving them stranded.
"You've reached the end of your rope." Piedmon teased.
"T.K.!" Angemon shouted from below.
Without warning Piedmon grabbed T.K's shoe and was pulling him down. "Sorry if I give you a wedgie." Kari wouldn't let the joker take her last hope. She clutched T.K's hand.
" Let go Kari, or he'll get you too!"
"I won't let go of you T.K.!"
Piedmon interrupted their conversation. He cut the rope below them as he shouted, "Looks like you two are falling for each other!"
Kari screamed as she plummeted from the sky. She waited for T.K. to save the day with his crest, but nothing happened. Next thing Kari knew, she was in Piedmon's arms. He held a knife to her throat. The cold, sharp metal was getting closer....
~* End Flashback *~
A/N: Just to let you know, that took me 20 minutes to right down, then a hour to type it. So you better like it.
Kari woke up with cold sweat lining her body. She breath heavily as she jerked out of T.K's arms and sat up. The room was silent, with no evil digimon in sight. One thing bothered her though, why did all her dreams end with Kari in Piedmon's embrace? Scanning the computer lab, Kari searched for any other signs of danger. There were none. T.K. was adorable when he slept, his mouth hanging open and his hair in every direction. Sighing, Kari lied down again and attempted to slumber.
*Outside*
The sun crept over the Rocky Mountains. They rose majestically over the plains. Mother Nature had made certain that it was a beautiful morning. Only a few fluffy clouds were in the sky. A slight wind blew through the crisp air. Though there was something Nature had not caused, the fog. It hung over Willis's farm like a blanket.
One person pushed through it in a hurry. Her delicate blonde hair blew in the breeze. Though the attractive girl didn't seem to care at the moment. Catherine just wanted to be inside the house. The whole "prize" really startled her. From the sinister redheaded man at the airport, to the mysterious weather the ranch had. All the greeter did was grin evilly, hand her a picture and direct her to a taxi.
Though Catherine didn't mind the photograph. It displayed a brunette with spiky hair. He was athletic and held a soccer ball in his hands. The boy wore a set of goggles in his mane. Even the grin on his face was to die for. Catherine wondered what country he was from. Analyzing the picture some more, Catherine thought to herself. 'He doesn't look American, maybe he's Japanese.' That seemed right. Both the boys that visited Catherine during the digimon incident were from Japan. One of them looked like he was related to the boy in the photo.
*Back to the adorable people sleeping*
T.K. stretched his arms and yawned. When he finished waking up, T.K. studied the scene around him. Kari was already astir, a solemn expression on her face. Gradually the other digidestined rose up around them. Davis still had the hurt expression of betrayal. As soon as T.K's gaze met his, the goggled leader glared angrily. Across the room Ken was trying to disturb Yolie from her slumber. It wasn't going so well. Yolie repeatedly smacked Ken in the face, saying "It's a Saturday, come on, it's too early."
At last Cody dumped water on the girl's head. "Hey...oh, this isn't my room." Yolie said blankly. Gradually crimson crept into her cheeks when Yolie realized what was going on. Ken was rubbing his bruised face gingerly. "Sorry Ken, I thought you were my sister." The girl apologized.
Laughter followed, the digidestined no able longer able to keep it in. Though T.K. was the first to stop. His sea colored eyes went wide. Directly across the room was a blonde girl his age. Her eyes were sky-blue, and they studied everyone in the area in detail. At last Catherine's gaze rested upon Davis. She watched his eyes alternate from staring at Kari longingly to glaring at T.K. A smile formed on Catherine's lips as she saw the reason behind Davis's behavior.
T.K. stood as he greeted the French girl. "Bon jour Catherine. Meet my friends Davis, Kari, Yolie, Ken, Cody, and Willis." Next T.K. introduced the digimon.
Catherine came closer as T.K. was talking. "Any way, how are...?" Though the blonde boy was interrupted. He was being kissed; French style by the girl in front of him. T.K. fought his hormones as he looked at Kari. Her face was identical to the one in the nightmare. His dream was coming true! The heart inside T.K. sank into his stomach. 'Why do these things always happen to me?'
Meanwhile Kari observed the spectacle. Betrayal lined her features. T.K. said that he loved her, but now he was smacking some random girl on the lips. Kari was angry, mournful, and glad simultaneously.
Suddenly the door creaked open behind her. A guy about as young as Ken stepped beside. He had curly red hair, and brown eyes. There was something mysterious, almost sinister about them. The teen was tall, taller than T.K., and he had black clothes, and spiked jewelry. Following him were Tai and Matt, though they seemed different. Their eyes were empty, like they were in a trance. Without saying a word, Kari's and T.K's brothers sat down across the room. Catherine stopped kissing T.K. as the redheaded boy began to speak. 'He looks a lot like that guy at the airport.'
"Sorry to interrupt your morning, but these two got lost in the fog outside." He apologized coolly.
"That's okay...thanks for the help." Kari chimed as she shook the guy's hand.
Instantly her eyes locked with his. Kari lost control of her mind as the teen searched her gaze. Everything turned gray and white in Kari thoughts, except for the newcomer.
"Hi, pleased to meet you, call me Hunter." The redhead greeted as he knelt down and brought Kari's hand to his lips.
"I'm Kari." She answered in a daze. 'Wow, this guy is cute, almost as much as T.K.' Kari thought absent-mindedly. Then an idea formed in her head. 'If T.K. wants to be a player, then I guess I will be one too.' "Want to get a bite to eat?"
"I'd love to...Kari." Hunter whispered, standing up again.
Cody also rose from his sleeping bag, "You sure this is a good idea?"
Gatomon rested on her pillow. "Yeah, who knows what's waiting outside." She added with concern.
"I'll be fine." Kari stated as she took Hunter's hand in her own. They exited the room and headed into the fields outside the farmhouse.
* At the barn *
Jael opened her eyes and stretched her arms. Her alarm was beeping, loudly. Sitting upright in confusion, Jael thought to herself, 'What? I never set that thing when I'm off duty.' Sunlight was streaming through the sole window of the loft. It was still dim outside, stating that it was still sunrise. Wait...on no. Nice going Jael, sleeping through your own alarm clock for almost six hours! Great, I'm dead now.'
In a hurry Jael gathered her stuff together as she plotted her doomed escape. On her kitchen table lay a single picture and a map. The picture was of a bridge high above the deep waters of the nearby river. Meanwhile the map showed a highlighted route on which to get to the landmark. Jael smiled. She had planned to visit the bridge and take pictures of the animals around. 'So much for that idea.'
Then an another notion formed in her mind. It would be much less painful to drown, than to endure Piedmon's furry. Jael scribbled down a short note to Tai.
'Dear Tai, I'm sorry about everything. Just to let you know, I really did start to love you. I hope you'll miss me when I'm gone, and that you'll be able to save your sister.
Love Sankyo Jael'
Jael signed her name and left the note next to the picture. Stealing one last glance at Tai, she headed for the ladder. Then the curly headed girl dashed towards her death.
Melody: Dun Dun Dun that's the cliffhanger people. Just so you know, I got the idea for Jael's last name from the brand name of the flute I play.