Kanius: Hey, guys! I know you were dying for the next chapter, but here we go! What kind of twisted plans do Pharaohmon and Nemesis have for Himura and the Tamers? I may be the representative of darkness, but I still shudder to think what they occur.
Coral: I can't wait for Nemesis to kick some ass. ; I'm already anxious!
Kanius: By the way, I don't own the rights to the characters Himura, Yui/Nemesis, Inumon and Basilikmon. Those are characters of Youkai Youko! I do own Pharaohmon's demon form but not the title name. Without further ado, let's get on with the fic! Enjoy!
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The Tsubasa Sibling Betrayal! Pharaohmon's Worldwide Announcement!
Eastern Shinjuku: 8:05 P.M.
In desperate search for Himura, the Tamers had searched nearly every alleyway and street sides. Dark Gabumon had tried everything he could to pick up on Inumon's scent, but it was to no avail. He was driven to not only find those two, but also his partner. He felt as though he had failed to be Yui's partner.
"I'm sorry, guys. I can't even pick up on mutt's scent. He's too far out of range for me," Dark Gabumon said.
"Darn. Guilmon? Anything yet?"
"No. They're too far away. Himura and Inumon were moving way too fast."
"Well I don't know about you guys, but I thinkw e should take a breather. We've been running all day," Terriermon said. "I don't think I can hang onto Henry all day. I need some 'agua'…"
"Agua?" Guilmon asked.
"That's Spanish for 'water'," Henry muttered. "We can't stop now. Pharaohmon could very well lure Himura into a trap. It's up to us to prevent him from also being captured."
"Damn it! We're never going to find Himura or Yui!" cursed Dark Gabumon.
"Calm down," Renamon said. "Felinismon. Have you been able to seek out any dark energy signals?"
"No. Pharaohmon's minions nearly always mask their auras," the feline digimon said. "Sorry…"
"Jeri. Can you and Felinismon do me a favor?" Henry asked.
"Sure. Anything," Jeri said.
"Can you two get back to Himura's place to pick up Suzie and Lopmon? Make sure to drop them off at my apartment."
"Sure. That shouldn't be a problem. Don't worry, Felinismon. I know exactly where Henry lives. Just follow me lead."
"You're the boss."
With that said, Felinismon picks up Jeri and takes off into the distance. This left the Tamer trio with their digimon to guide Dark Gabumon through the dark city. Unfortunately, they weren't even close to finding Himura and Inumon. That doesn't mean that they would be giving up on their search, even if it would take them all night.
"Listen up guys," Takato announced. "We're going to try out one last place. I think it's obvious where we can possibly find Himura and Inumon."
"Where to Sherlock?" Rika asked. "The park, as usual?"
"Not this time."
Takato looks out towards the city and notices a bright flash of light illuminating from the background. He figured that something was about to take place and he believes that Inumon just might be behind it.
"Takatomon? Did you see that?"
"You bet I did. Next stop, Shinjuku Bridge."
Downtown Shinjuku. Bridge. 8:05 P.M.
Himura and Inumon were being attacked by another horde of the Scrabmon clan. Fortunately, Inumon was there to aid his partner against their ferocity. The canine unleashes his assault on the insects and shattered their emeralds in the process. Each Scramon were instantly wiped out once their emeralds are destroyed.
"Whew, that takes care of them!" Inumon said.
"Yeah, but they were beaten so easily. There's something suspicious about this," replied Himura. "It's as if they wanted us to defeat them."
"Who cares?! At least I got a warm up exercise in the process! Now, where should we be off to next?"
Despite the canine's excited glee, Himura was not amused and looked around his surroundings. There didn't seem to be any signs of Scrabmon in hiding. Even Inumon couldn't pick up on any remaining insect warriors.
Unknown to them, a dark figure was lurking about on top of an apartment building roof. Her eyes were locked tightly onto Himura and a sinister grin forms on her face.
"Himura. I've found you…"
Just then, a dark voice spoke through to the woman almost immediately. She responds to the dark force himself.
"You know what to do, my dear.
"Yes, to rid myself of that nuisance, Himura Tsubasa. I promise you that his blood will be on my hands."
"Don't let your guard down. I sense that the Tamers are near."
"No need to worry about them. I have everything under complete control."
"So be it. I leave this to you, Nemesis."
The dark voice trails off after his telepathic conversation with the mistress herself, Nemesis. Free of Yui's innocence, Nemesis was free to finally extract her rage upon Himura.
"Dear brother… I hope you're ready to become my next sacrificial offer."
As soon as she said that, Nemesis leaps off from the top of the apartment roof and lands down in front of the two. Inumon quickly turns to find Nemesis sitting up from a kneeling position. He gasped in surprise and this manages to catch Himura's attention. Himura set his eyes on Nemesis with anger.
"You! Who are you?!" Himura exclaimed.
The woman merely chuckled at the boy's question and licks her lips. She then puts on her ninja mouth cover and steps forward.
"Tell me! What have you done to my sister?! You had better give an answer now or we're going to get our answer by force! Inumon!"
Obeying his partner's command, Inumon leaps forward and comes into contact with Nemesis. The woman stands her ground and puts out her right hand.
"Hey, what's she doing, Himura?"
"I don't give a damn! Hey, you haven't answered my question! Where is my sister?!"
"Oh dear sweet little Himura, do you really miss your sister?"
"Shut up! Don't you dare taunt me! How dare you bring up the mention of my sister!"
"Patience. You'll be seeing your sister enough. That I can promise you," Nemesis replied while snickering.
Suddenly, Inumon stopped at his tracks while letting his nose take a whiff from the air. He picked up onto Nemesis' scent and gasped at the familiar scent he had picked up on. The boy took notice of his partner backing away from the ninja woman.
"What's wrong, Inumon? Why aren't you preparing for attack?"
"Her scent… Her scent is so familiar."
"What are you talking about? We don't even know her! Besides that, I don't even want to get to know this witch. She's clearly working for Pharaohmon and is holding Yui hostage!"
"Sweet little Himura… You clearly don't know whom you're dealing with. I guess that tiny brain can't function that well."
"You better keep your mouth shut!"
"Himura. You're not going to believe."
"Just tell me already, Inumon."
"Her scent… it's so similar to that of Yui, but I don't know how that's possible!"
"What?! Her scent is similar to Yui?!"
"Don't tell me this is another member of your family out for revenge…"
"That's a lie. I only have one blood relative and that's Yui. Haven't I already told you that I don't have any other siblings?"
"Well, her smell is similar to Yui's… Oh my god…"
"What?! What is it now?"
"Could she… She couldn't be!"
"Himura!!" the voice of Takato was heard from the background.
The boy and his canine digimon turned to find Takato leading his team down towards the bridge area. He noticed that Jeri and Felinismon were absent from the group, but he was relieved that Jeri would remain out of harm's way.
"Takato! What are you guys doing here?! I told that I'd handle this alone!" Himura snapped.
"As a famous goggle head celebrity would always say, there is no I in team!"
"Sorry but this is my fight!"
"Say, who's the chick?" Terriermon asked. "She looks hot."
"I don't know but she's clearly working for Pharaohmon! I'll do whatever it takes to destroy her and find Yui!"
"Himura! You aren't clearly thinking," Henry said. "Let us help you."
Just then, Dark Gabumon's nose immediately twitched and picked up onto Nemesis. He scurried over to Inumon to get a better sniff of the woman's familiar scent. Nemesis steered clear away from the canines and readied herself to attack them. Dark Gabumon gasped in utter disbelief at what he was picking up on.
"Everyone! Listen up! Our search for Yui has ended!" Dark Gabumon announced.
"For once, I have to agree," Inumon said. "Himura. You're going to hate what we're about to say but it's the truth."
Himura looks across to Nemesis and his eyes widened as if he had seen a ghost. He fell to his knees and knew exactly what they were about to announce.
"This woman is Yui!" Dark Gabumon said. "I'm sorry we have to say it but it's the truth."
Even the Tamers were caught in surprise and felt terrible for Himura. The boy was starting to tremble in fear. He had failed to save his sister. He now realizes that Yui has now become an enemy to him and ally to Pharaohmon.
"Yui… How could you?!"
Despite the depressing moment, Nemesis merely giggled and nodded her head in utter disbelief. She points a finger towards Himura and gives him a thumbs down sign.
"The girl known as Yui Tsubasa is gone forever. Here standing before you is the new Yui. Call me Nemesis."
"Damn him! Damn Pharaohmon! How could you let him do this to you?!" Himura cried out.
"He simply exposed you as the fraud and murderer you truly are. I will never forgive you for killing that girl, Kotori."
"What?! Me kill Kotori?! Pharaohmon is the liar! You've been exposed to nothing but lies, Yui!"
"Stop calling me Yui, you brat! You shall address to me as Nemesis and nothing more. No, you're the one who let Kotori die!"
"Please listen to your brother! He told us everything about that Kotori girl!" Takato calls out. "A monster killed Kotori! Your brother was spared after that girl saved his life!"
"Stop your lies, goggle boy! You've been lied to by this little fraud. You're sad. You know that? Your naive little minds will believe anything that is told to you by a stranger," Nemesis replied. "Himura. There's another thing I will never forgive you for… Momma and poppa. You killed them too!"
As soon as she said that, Himura gasped in horror and couldn't believe that these words were coming out from his own sister's mouth. Nemesis's fists clenched tightly and immediately drew out blood.
"They're gone and it's all your fault, Himura! You killed them because you felt that I was getting the most attention from them. Don't you realize that they loved us both? Momma and poppa loved us equally and you couldn't accept me as your sibling! You took it upon yourself to drive yourself into rage. You drugged them both and caused poppa to lose control of the car. Then, the accident occurred and they were gone forever. You even plotted to have me killed that day, but I survived. My will to survive was stronger than your hatred! You entered the comatose state and still you weren't satisfied. So you took it on Kotori and left her to die! Some friend you turned out to be. You're nothing but a spineless coward with no remorse! You disgust me! I HAVE NO BROTHER!"
"Yui! Please listen to reason! You didn't even give me a chance to explain!"
"It's too late for reason, dear brother. You've lost your reason years ago. You're no longer my brother in my eyes. Now it's time to face judgment, Himura. I'll send you to the depths of hell and take your rotten soul."
Nemesis extracted her hands into claws and charged forward at Himura. The boy clearly was frozen still in shock and couldn't move a single muscle. Inumon leaps forward in front of Himura and pushes him away. Her clawed hands only managed to penetrate through the concrete pavement.
"Oh my god! I can't believe she did that!" Rika cried out. "Renamon! Go and check on them!"
"Right away!"
The neon fox leaps forward swiftly to aid Inumon with Himura. Nemesis turns to face her adversaries and leaps forward. Renamon steps forward and attempts to stop Nemesis, but the ninja girl delivers a spinning kick to knock the vulpine away. Clearly her objective was to assassinate the boy.
"You're petty friends can't save you know, Himura. Inumon. Why are you protecting this murderer? He deserves to die for the pain he's put me through over the years!"
"Yui! Please listen! Himura did not kill Kotori! I was there with him battling Basilikmon! Well, actually, I didn't see how Kotori was killed, but when Himura told me… I was shocked in disbelief. She had sacrificed herself to ensure Himura's survival! Either one of them would have died that day anyway!"
"She sacrificed herself? No! You've been brainwashed by his lies, Inumon! I thought I knew you better than that! You're partner is clearly a murderer with no soul! He'll kill you when the time arrives."
"He'd never kill me. Himura is not that type of guy. If anything, he's the coolest brother I've ever seen. All other brothers would have picked on their sisters and made them cry. But he has never done that with you. He vowed to always protect you no matter what… I admire him for his courage."
"Courage? Blasphemy! Don't ever associate that term with that monster!"
"No! If anything, you're the one who's become the monster!" Takato cries out angrily. "You let Pharaohmon brainwash you with these lies!"
"Shut up! Shut up!" Nemesis screamed. "Just for that, goggle head… I will execute you and your friends."
"Don't do this, Yui!" Dark Gabumon pleaded to his partner.
"I said shut up!"
With that said, Nemesis pushed her hand forward and knocks Dark Gabumon away with force. The dark canine is sent crashing into the side of the bridge and was left laid out unconscious. Nemesis faced off with the Tamers
"Come on, Tamers. I've grown tired of these games. Make your little pets grow and I'll knock them down with ease. In fact, I don't play nice with others."
"You guys! Please, don't fight her!" Himura pleaded. "That's Yui! We can't risk hurting her!"
"Sorry, Himura, but she'll kill us if we give her to chance to attack," Henry said. "But… How can we save her? She's been brainwashed by Pharaohmon's dark magic."
"Aww, isn't this sweet? The little murderer wants to spare my life? Now you're starting to show some compassion. But like I said, it's too late for that, Himura!"
"Yui! Fight the dark magic! You have to break this control that Pharaohmon has over you!"
"And for the last time! My name is Nemesis the dark mistress!"
Nemesis brings her clawed hands forward and goes to stab Himura with her claws. However, Inumon leaps out in and takes the head on assault. The ninja girl's claw penetrated through Inumon's right side and forces him to back away with a gaping hole. Everyone, including Renamon and Inumon, looks on with horror. The canine chuckled and fell to his knees with blood dripping from his wound.
"INUMON!!" Himura cried out.
"No!! Inumon!!" screamed Renamon.
"Himura… Are you going to be okay?"
"Inumon… But why?"
"We're friends, Himura. Kotori sacrificed herself to save you and I'm doing the same. But don't worry about me. This isn't a fatal wound… and I'm… not about to kick the bucket… anytime soon…"
As soon as Inumon finished his sentence, he falls down onto the ground and struggled to get up onto his feet. Nemesis steps away with her eyes widened in shock.
"Inumon?! You protected this murderer?! Why waste your time?! Even you must realize that he has to pay for his sin!"
"What you don't realize is that your brother truly cares for you, Yui!" Henry exclaimed. "This violence has gone on long enough!"
"Actually, it's just begun…"
Nemesis snaps her fingers and almost immediately the Tamers found themselves trapped inside a barrier. However, this was no regular barrier. The kids had found themselves trapped inside an array of invisible bombs created from Nemesis' spiritual energy.
"What is this?!" Takato said.
"Takatomon!"
The digimon ran towards their partners and attempted to plow their way through the barrier. Little did they realize that the barrier was actually a swarm of invisible bombs.
"Eh. Eh. I wouldn't do that if I were you, fellas," Nemesis chuckled. "If you even touch that barrier, my invisible bombs will be set off and your partners will be blown to pieces."
"What?! Guilmon! Stop! Don't come any closer!"
Responding to his partner's pleas, Guilmon and his digimon allies stopped at their tracks. Nemesis encircled her adversaries and continued to chuckle to herself.
"That's a good boy. This ought to keep you out of my way, children. Now, digimon. Digivolve and fight me all at once. I promise that I won't bite… that much."
"Takato. There's no other way. We're going to have to teach her a lesson!" Rika snapped. "She didn't even bother to help Inumon! This girl is no longer Yui in my eyes!"
"How observant dear child," Nemesis continued on. "Now, make your Renamon digivolve at once. I'd like to test out my powers against the trio that saved their precious home many times before."
"Yui! Stop this madness!" Himura cried out. "Please, don't go through with this!"
"Don't you ever learn to shut up?!"
With that said, Nemesis springs forward and delivers a painful knee shot into Himura's gut. The force of her knee drives deeply into Himura and causes him to spit out blood. The ninja girl wipes the blood from his mouth and looks at it with interest. She removes her ninja mask and licks the blood from her hand thoroughly. She then brings Himura closer to her face and licks the blood off his soft cheeks.
"Mmmm. As they say, blood is thicker than water, dear sweet brother… Oh, yesss… Delicious crimson…"
"Ugh! Ok, that is definitely not hygienic!" Rika gagged.
"Man! I'd never seen anything so sick!" Terriermon said. "She even makes Dracula look like an amateur."
"I've had enough of this! Guilmon! This has gone far enough!" Takato calls out. "She has to be stopped! Digivolve now!"
"You too, Terriermon!"
"Kick that witch's ass, Renamon!"
Just as she finished licking the blood from her brother, Himura pleads with tears swelling up from his eyes. The boy was in tears and reached out for his sister's face. Nemesis merely snorted and drops Himura on the ground. She turned to see the digimon trio preparing to digivolve into their champion level forms. This was the result of the children using their card slashes.
EVOLUTION!!
"Guilmon shinka!! Growlmon!!"
"Renamon shinka!! Kyuubimon!!"
"Terriermon shinka!! Gargomon!!"
Nemesis shielded herself from the bright auras shining from the evolved digmon. She looks ahead to find the digimon trio in their champion forms. Growlmon stomped forward and lets out a terrifying roar.
"Ooo? Is that supposed to scare me?" Nemesis taunted the dragon-dinosaur. "Come on, let's play."
"You will be peeing in your pants when we're through with ya!" Gargomon replied.
"Remember, we're here to free her of Pharaohmon's dark magic," Kyuubimon stated. "Killing her is out of the question."
"Oh, I know you won't kill me," Nemesis responded. "Because it's you three that are going to die with Himura. Oh and don't even dare make a move through my bomb barrier, Tamers. That is unless you want to be blown to bits."
"Take her, Growlmon!"
The crimson reptile charges forward and unleashed a ferocious claw slash, which Nemesis easily dodged with a single flip. Growlmon swings his tail forward but only manages to take down a tree. Nemesis flies up and tosses two bombs across. Growlmon charges forward, but is sent reeling back once the bombs made contact with Growlmon. Fortunately, his tough hide protected him from the bombs' damage.
"Bombs! I had better watch out for those!"
"As you should, but never turn your back on your opponent."
With that said, Growlmon turned to find himself being caught in an array of bombs making contact with him. The goggle head could only look on with horror, but he couldn't move past the barrier to save his friend.
"Growlmon!!"
"Feh. That was way too easy," the ninja girl said.
"I wouldn't go flaunting just yet, Nemesis," Kyuubimon replied.
"Oh? Me flaunt my powers? At least I'm succeeding in dismantling you pathetic weaklings. I have every right to flaunt."
"Then, you wouldn't mind making room for an upset?"
"Please! You don't frighten me!"
"Dragon Wheel!!"
As soon as Kyuubimon charges forward and spun herself into a flaming dragon, Nemesis maneuvers away to the side and yawned. She phases down and delivers a kick to the spinning dragon. Kyuubimon is sent soaring up into the air. The ninja girl leaps up with extraordinary speed and executes a flying kick, which knocks Kyuubimon away.
Inumon lifted his head up to find Kyuubimon plummeting towards the ground. He gets to his feet and drags himself forward to aid Kyuubimon.
"Renamon… I'm coming… Damn this injury…"
"Well, that was pretty dull. Rika, dear… Next time you need to teach your partner some original tactics. I could clearly see everything was planning to do."
This only managed to further infuriate the red-haired girl. She tries to pass through the barrier despite warnings by Nemesis, but Takato stopped her at her tracks.
"What are you doing?!"
"Don't worry about, Kyuubimon. Inumon is going over to check on her. He'll protect her."
"Inumon? Oh… Thank goodness…"
"Hey! You forgot all about me, ninja girl! Gargo Lasers!"
Nemesis overheard the mention of her name and finds Gargomon blasting her away with a barrage of bullets. The ninja girl quickly puts up a barrier of spirit bombs, which managed to top the bullets. Numerous bombs were set off from the bullet shots and a thick, smoke cloud covered Nemesis. Gargomon charges forward to look around for his adversary.
"Oh, Yui! Come out! Come out! Wherever you are!"
Gargomon stopped at his tracks as soon as he heard a girl giggling behind him. He stood frozen still as Nemesis placed her hands on Gargomon's shoulders. Her eyes emitted a crimson glow as soon as she puts her face closer to Gargomon.
"Tag… YOU'RE IT!!"
Gargomon screamed out as his shoulders exploded on contact. Nemesis leaps away from the explosions. The gun-wielding digimon found his shoulder completely charred from the bombs. He fell to his knees, which caused Henry to cry out.
"Gargomon!! No!!"
"I'm sorry, were you three supposed to scare me with your pathetic attacks? Yes, that's what you are. PA-THE-TIC!"
Nemesis cackles deeply at the destruction she has caused to the Tamers' digimon. Growlmon was left lying with injuries from the bombs. Kyuubimon was lying unconscious with Inumon holding her in his arms. Gargomon could barely sit up as his shoulders were completely injured. The ninja girl's eyes were completely obssessed by the violence and harm she had caused to her former friends.
"With these fools out of the way, I can finish inflicting punishment on the murderer. Come here, little Himura… Heh. Heh."
Himura tried everything within the fiber of his being to crawl away, but he soon found himself in the shadow of the dark ninja mistress. She picks Himura up by his neck and brings her forward. With her other hand, Nemesis removes her ninja mask and smiles.
"Oh, dear little Himura… How should I extract my hatred for you? Oh yesss… I shall draw first blood."
She brings her hand forward and slowly cuts through Himura's right arm. The boy closed his mouth, in order to prevent himself from screaming. He refused to show any signs of weakness and battled through the pain. This deeply upset Nemesis as she noticed Himura's eyes fueling with a burning desire to overcome the near death situation.
"Why don't you scream? Tell me… Why WON'T you SCREAM?! SCREAM, DAMN YOU!!"
Nemesis brings her hand forward and delivers a slap across Himura's right cheek. She delivers another to his left cheek. Himura remained motionless and did not utter a single word. This only succeeded in infuriating Nemesis. She brings her left knee forward and rams it into Himura's gut. She spits out some blood. Her face becomes trenched with the blood of her own brother.
"You won't scream… Why aren't you screaming?! SCREAM DAMN YOU! SCREAM!!"
She tosses Himura onto the ground and presses her right boot over the boy's back. Despite the threshold he was enduring, Himura did not utter a single word or scream. She stomped her foot down several times and was beginning to lose her mind. She smacks herself across the face and screams.
"SCREAM!! I SAID SCREAM!! AREN'T YOU FEELING ANY PAIN?! DON'T YOU EVEN CARE IF I KILL YOU?! I was right! You have no heart! You killed Kotori and our parents with no remorse! It's no surprise… But I think I'm going to end it right now… Your stench is making me sick. In fact, your mere sight is starting to make me want to vomit."
Nemesis licks every ounce of her brother's blood from her face. She gets on her knees and crawls over to her fallen brother. She draws closer to his ear and whispers softly.
"Don't worry. I'll make sure you'll scream…"
With that said, she brings her hand over her head and extracted her razor claws out once again. Her main target was to penetrate through Himura's chest and rip out his heart.
"I guarantee you will scream. Finally I'll gain my retribution on your rotten soul and take your heart as a trophy prize."
The Tamers could only look on since they would explode on impact with the bomb barrier. The digimon started to regain their senses but were to late to even make a move towards Nemesis. Inumon charged forward despite the injury. Nemesis brings her hand down towards Himura and was just seconds away from completing her task. That is until…"
"Dark Blaster!!"
Dark Gabumon leaps forward and shot out a flaming shot at Nemesis. She only managed to move away with the flame barely nicking her pale right cheek. Dark Gabumon stood out in front of the fallen Himura with his arms outstretched. Nemesis felt her right cheek and growled deeply.
"You nicked my face, you little bastard!"
"Stop this, Yui! I can't stand this anymore! This anger and hatred you've developed! This is madness!"
"And? Your point?"
"You can't continue on like this! I know that deep down inside that Yui is calling out for help. I can sense her presence and she wants out of that body! Set Yui free, you monster!"
"You'll never see that little brat again! She's dead!"
"I don't think so. You underestimate the pure heart Yui possesses! She's ten times the person you'll ever become!"
As soon as he said that, Nemesis felt her body trembling and her chest pounding. She falls to her knees and holds her head tightly.
"No! I won't let you overtake me, you brat! You won't win!"
"Yui! Fight the evil! You can break through Pharaohmon's evil spell!"
In response to Dark Gabumon's pleas, Nemesis realized that her voice had changed and become that of innocent Yui. Yui was finally speaking through the ninja mistress herself.
"Dark Gabumon! Help me! Please, help me!"
"No! You'll never break free, Yui! I'm in control here! I'm the new Yui!"
"You'll never be me! You're hurting my brother and my friends! I'll never forgive you or Pharaohmon for this!"
"Ha! What are you going to do about it, little Yui? Cry? Yes, go ahead and cry. It won't do you any good!"
"I won't cry! You don't even scare me anymore, Nemesis! I'll overcome you!"
"Nonsense! I've won this internal struggle! Just be a good little girl and stay quiet!"
"Quit hurting my friends!"
"Never! This is only just the beginning!"
"Yui! C'mon! You can do it! I believe in you!" Dark Gabumon cries out. "Yui?! Is that you in there?!"
Nemesis held her head tightly and thrashed about. Her inner struggle with Yui was drawing to a close as Nemesis regained complete control. She turns to face Dark Gabumon and charges forward with her claws extracted.
"A futile attempt, Dark Gabumon! Now die!"
As soon as she brought her claws down, Dark Gabumon closed his eyes to prepare to meet his fate. However, he realized that Nemesis was backing away. Her eyes were completely spaced out at the moment.
"Yui?"
"No… Yui is gone but we shall meet again…"
Nemesis looks down over to Himura and snorted.
"We'll meet again Himura. Next time, I'll be sure to finish the job."
With that said, the ninja mistress disappears into the night and phases out completely. This left everyone else to let out sighs of relief and gave them time to recuperate. The bomb barrier faded out, which at last freed the Tamers.
"We're free," Takato said. "Oh no! Growlmon!"
Inumon walks over and places Kyuubimon next to Himura. He kneeled to his fallen partner and noticed more tears swelling up from his eyes.
"Yui…"
"Oh, Himura. I'm sorry," Inumon said.
Dark Gabumon looks off into the stars and lets a tear drop over his face. He turned around to find Inumon nodding his ehad.
"She… She's still in there. Yui is still in there. She asked us to set her free…"
"I know," replied Inumon.
Himura sits up but winched in pain. The male canines walked over to help the boy to his feet. The Tamers' digimon reverted back to their rookie forms to conserve their energy.
"Himura. Whether you want to admit it or not, your sister is now our enemy," Takato said. "I know it pains you to hear that, but you're going to have to deal with it."
"But we will also do everything we can to bring your sister back," Henry replied.
"That's a promise we'll live up to," Rika said.
"Thank you," Himura said. "No really… Thank you… Yui is still in there. I just know it."
"We know and we'll set her free," Takato stated. "But you will just have to trust us."
"I do and I'm sure you will live up to your word, Takato. But how am I going to tell this to my godparents? They are going to kill me…"
"We'll explain everything that has happened," Inumon said.
"But, Inumon… They don't even know that they you are even alive. You always play off as my stuffed animal."
"Aw, just leave to us," Dark Gabumon said. "I'm sure they will understand."
"Well, I'm sure they'll really be that understanding listening to two talking canines," said Henry.
"Hey, it worked for me," Terriermon said.
"Thank you, Inumon. That really means a lot to me."
"Anything for Yui's sake."
"But still… Yui is out there as we speak. If Dark Gabumon was able to get through to her, then we should be able to as well," stated Takato. "Right, Rika? Look, you're a girl. What do you possibly think Yui must be undergoing now?"
"The poor thing is a tight struggle. Her innocent soul is doing everything it can to break through that heartless demon. Himura… She's a ruthless demon on the outside but a sad, lonely girl inside. You're lucky to have such a wonderful sister. I don't know how it's like having a sister of a brother."
"She is a wonderful sister and the only thing left that's apart of my family. Without her, I'd be a lost soul."
"Inumon. If you need some help explaining the situation to their godparents, don't hesitate to help you," Renamon said.
"Thanks, but I think I can manage this on my own with Dark Gabumon."
"Fair enough."
"You'll manage through for now, Himura. The time will come when we set her free," Guilmon replied. "Right, Takato?"
"You bet. I promise."
Domino City. Outside of Yugi's Home
After his momentary confrontation with Yami Bakura, Yugi returned and had called up his friends to meet him outside his home. As soon as Joey, Tea and Tristan got there, Yugi had explained the crisis dealing with the evil spirit of the Millennium Ring making his return.
"Whoa! You mean to tell me that the evil spirit of the Millennium Ring is back?!" Tristan asked. "Dang, that guy is like a cockroach. You step on him once and he'll keep coming back."
"Um, shouldn't that be a 'boomerang'?" Tea corrected the male teen.
"Um, yeah."
"Yug! This really sucks!" Joey cursed. "But we're here if you need us, pal. Where did you last see Bakura?"
"He disappeared into the night just before I could catch up with him."
"I shudder to think what he and Pharaohmon will do if they ever cross paths. I mean, really… I don't think we need two maniacs out to get you," Tristan stated.
"There's no way the pharaoh is going to let them take the puzzle," Yugi replied. "It's a good thing we have spring break off. We can go to Shinjuku tomorrow to meet with Takato and the others. Pharaohmon has already captured Himura's little sister."
"What?! He captured Himura's sister?!" Tea gasped in shock. "Yugi! We seriously need to go to Shinjuku!"
"That's what I just said. We have to think this over long and hard. We only have two weeks left until the tournament."
"Since there's going to be a duel monsters tournament in this, you can count me in," Joey said.
"I know you'll be there, Joey. If anyone of us ends up winning that part of the tournament, then we can name our stipulation to the final match in the standard tournament," Yugi explained.
"I bet that Kaiba will end up entering," Joey muttered. "I'd love to get back at that rich punk."
"No doubt he'll be there if Pharaohmon by some chance announces it to the world," Yugi stated. "Ok, everyone. Be sure to call me before you get some sleep. We'll catch the earliest bus we can find."
"Why not just tell Felinismon to teleport us over? Tea suggested. "That means any bus ride."
"Good idea. Ok, guys. Be sure to get everything you need for tomorrow. We have a big week to prepare for."
As the four extended their hands into a circle, they each set off to their homes in order to prepare themselves for the upcoming week. Starting tomorrow they would go back to Shinjuku to discuss their plans with the Tamers.
"Yugi. Don't forget that the evil spirit within Bakura is out there as we speak. If I know him, he'll find Pharaohmon and strike a deal with him. We'll be dealing with a deadly alliance. We're far more vulnerable than we've ever been."
"Not to worry, pharaoh. This puzzle won't be taken that easily. They'll have to kill me before they even take a hold of this puzzle."
"Yugi. I admire your determination."
"Thanks, pharaoh. I will not let you down. We'll crush the evil spirit first and deal with Pharaohmon afterwards. That's the best solution I can ever think about."
Yugi sets off back into his home to catch up on his sleep. Tomorrow morning would prove to be a busy day for Yugi and his friends.
Deep within Shinjuku District: 11:15 P.M.
Nemesis arrives at the top of the Hypnos Metropolitan main tower. As soon as she landed, he was graced upon by the arrival of Pharaohmon and Basilikmon.
"My lord… I've failed to execute Himura and those annoying Tamer pests. Please forgive me…"
"There's no need to apologize. You've already set out what you needed to accomplish. You have already crushed Himura's confidence."
"Pharaohmon?"
"Besides, you'll have your chance to rid yourself of that little insect. What's more important now is the tournament. Tomorrow, I shall make my announcement to the entire world."
"Sire. I have a question regarding Anubimon. Do you really want to personally invite him to take part in the event?"
"Basilikmon. It's a good thing you asked. I wish to face Anubimon and crush him to prove my superiority. Besides, I've already converted Yui to our side. Anubimon will have to do everything in his power to restore that boy's confidence. As for Takato and Yugi, their demise will come in due time."
"Oh, is that right?" a sinister voice speaks out through the darkness.
Pharaohmon senses the presence of a Millennium item and didn't even bother to turn around to realize that Yami Bakura had exposed himself. Nemesis and Basilikmon immediately stood out guarding their lord.
"Identify yourself, stranger."
"My name is of no concern to you. But I have heard about your gruesome reputation," Bakura said. "Is your name by any chance Pharaohmon?"
"What's it to you?"
"We both have complete interest in an item currently held by a boy named Yugi Muto."
"So, you're after the same item as I am? Interesting… But you haven't answered my question. What's it to you?"
"I seek the limitless power of the pharaoh himself."
"Then you are in my way of my conquest. Be gone, insect!"
"I have a proposition for you, my friend. This tournament I've been overhearing. I'm interested. Why don't I enter in the duel monsters portion of the event and take on Yugi in one of the first rounds?"
"You want to duel Yugi?"
"And the winner shall take the puzzle."
"Interesting, but I still seek the Millennium Puzzle."
"Let's make a gamble, Pharaohmon. If I win the entire duel monsters tournament, then I will keep the puzzle. If I lose even one match, then you can take the Millennium Puzzle. So what do you say?"
"Lord Pharaohmon. You shouldn't trust this louse! We have much more important matters to attend to!"
"No, I'm interested. Human. You have yourself a deal. You'll save me the trouble of crushing Yugi myself."
"My Lord. I have another suggestion. Why don't I enter the duel monster tournament? It'd be a pleasure to defeat Himura myself. Once that occurs, I shall have proven to be the better Tsubasa sibling."
"If that's what you want, then it shall be granted. I think I'll enter dear Lance himself into the tournament. Under my control, he'll prove to be quite formidable," Pharaohmon said. "This tournament will be a glorious event. Just two weeks until I plunge the real and digital worlds into the dark ages. Victory will be ours."
As soon as Pharaohmon flies off into the distance, this leaves Yami Bakura, Basilikmon and Nemesis behind. The ninja mistress walks off and sets her eyes towards the moon. She looks back to when Himura had pleaded for his life. Nemesis removes her mouth mask and lets loose her hair. Her dark blue hair flows against the cool wind and the moonlight reflects over her hair.
She sits on the edge of the tower roof and lets out a deep sigh. The cut on her cheek was healing. Nemesis holds out her right hand and formed a small energy bomb with her own spirit energy. She compresses it and watches as it takes the shape of a butterfly.
"Himura… Our paths will cross again soon. Be prepared for the worst. As for you little Yui, you'll never break through and distract me again."
March 24, 2003
Local Shibuya Apartment Complex in the Southern District. 8:10 A.M.
Another day passes and the Sailor Senshi are still recuperating from the Pharaohmon conflict. Well, Minako and Makoto had finally woken up from their long sleep. Ami was fortunate to nurse them back to health by feeding them some proper medication.
"I'm so gladly I'm back to full health," Makoto said with glee. "It's been nearly a day, right?"
"Since you two were in a small comatose states? Yes, you're technically right," Ami replied. "You and Minako should feel happy to be awake."
"I love long sleeps and all, but let's never go through with that again," Minako said.
"Yeah. Your snoring wasn't exactly helping any," Artemis muttered.
"What was that?"
"Oh nothing. How was your sleep?"
"Ami. Do you know where Setsuna left to?" Rei asked.
"She didn't say much, but she did tell me that she was going to meet Haruka and Michiru. Those two just came into town."
"Today? Oh, wow. Let's hope they've decided to lend us a hand."
"Who are Haruka and Michiru?" Cammy wondered. "Are they good friends of yours?"
"More like good allies," the elder sister responded. "I think you'll like them."
"Shoot. I've already grown to like you guys so much. Poppa never lets me go out with any of my friends that often. It's good to get away from him."
"I'm so glad you've decided to stick around for a while," Hotaru said. "I could use the company without Chibi-Usa around, Cammy."
"Hotaru…"
Just then, the nearest cordless phone starts ringing. Rei turns around and picks up the phone. She answers it and puts whoever it was on the line.
"Hello?"
"Rei. This is Setsuna. I've already met with Haruka and Michiru. We're on our way over."
"Ok, then. We'll see you then."
As soon as she hangs up, Ami came walking into the dining room to pick up a pitcher of hot tea.
"Who was that, Rei?"
"That was Setsuna. She's on her way over with Haruka and Michiru. We should prepare some more tea."
"That's a good idea."
"In the meantime, I think I'll catch up on some anime," Cammy said.
The younger Hino walks over to the television and turns it on. Rather than getting a view of any anime character, Cammy saw that the local news was being played instead.
"Aw, shucks. It's the news."
"Hopefully we can get some decent news for once," Minako said as she came walking in.
"I smell tea all the way from here," Makoto said.
"Hey, you two should still be in bed!" Artemis calls out.
"Hey, Artemis. Why don't you come on over here?" Cammy asked. "I love kitties."
"Oh, kami-sama…"
Just as Cammy flipped to another channel, she noticed that an explosion occurred during another newscast. The girl jumps back in shock and nearly flips out.
"Cammy! What is it?" Rei asked.
"Something just exploded on that newscast! I can't make out to tell what it is!"
"I don't like the looks of this," Makoto said. "Rei. You don't think it could…"
"I think it is that bastard!"
The raven-haired girl was correct on her assumptions. Pharaohmon made his way through the smoke cloud and appears before the worldwide newscast. The demonic entity grabs the news reporter and tosses him aside as if he were a rag doll.
"I was right after all!" Rei growled angrily.
"Rei! It's that mean monster," Cammy gasped in fear.
"Damn! It's the one who stole our powers just to get where he is at now! Wait until I get my hands on him!" Minako snaps.
"Uh. Why don't you at least try saying that to him right now on the TV without your back turned?" Makoto suggested.
"Heh. I was just rehearsing for my next comeback."
Pharaohmon turns to face the camera and was about to begin his worldwide announcement to the entire world through Japan's global broadcast.
"Good day, humans of Earth. I am taking over the Japanese airwaves and sending this as a global broadcast. Allow me to introduce myself. I am Pharaohmon. Despite what you may think, this is no publicity stunt. I am here to make a grand announcement that shall appease your boring lives. I have come to announce the start of a grand tournament. No, make it two tournaments rolled up into one event. One tournament will involve standard fighting and the other will be purely based through Duel Monsters. The event itself will take place in the Digital World. So if you see a hole through the skies, then you know that the gateway will be open and free to those who wish to participate or attend the event. By the way, I know about the secret organization called Hypnos and their attempts to halt my event. I can assure you that I will not allow that to occur."
"So that's the rules," Rei said. "Gee, I wonder what the stipulations are?"
"The rules for the battle tournament are very simple. There will be thirty-two participants. I expect the Digimon Tamers and the Legendary Warriors to take part in the event. My minions will deal everyone else who dares to oppose me. I've also entered some of my own participants to make this tournament far more interesting. Cameraman get a good view of this lineup roster."
With that said, the cameraman immediately turned to take a good view of the many digimon villains freed from Anubimon's prison. Amongst them was a cloaked figure with demonic horns, a clown jester with a weird outfit and twin swords sheathed on his back, an ice version of Devimon, an aquatic demon with white tentacles, a dark mistress with vampire-like features and crimson eyes, and finally, Basilikmon himself.
"Holy cow! Is that Piedmon?!" Kazu exclaimed. "And that's… Demon?! Oh crap!"
"Those monsters are from the television series we watch!" Henry said.
"Yeah! They're scawy!" Suzie shrieked.
"If Pharaohmon has managed to recruit the real deals, then we're in serious trouble," Takato said.
"No duh, Sherlock!" Rika replied.
"Rika! Look!" Renamon said as she spointed to the television.
The redhead's eyes widens in horror, as she saw none other than Icedevimon standing with Demon and Piedmon.
"Ice-Ice Devimon?! It can't be! I'd thought I'd never have to face him again! Damn it!"
"This is some reunion of baddies," Kenta remarked. "I don't think I want to enter this tournament."
"No kidding! I'm already having second thoughts," Kazu said.
"You two need to toughen up," Jeri said. "We already know what they're capable of on television."
"Yeah, but we're dealing the real deals," Felinismon said. "It's a whole different ball game, Jeri."
"These dudes are scarier than the Devas combined," Guilmon said. "But I'm ready to take them on! Right, Takato?"
"You bet!"
"These are just a few of the participants representing the dark side. Tamers. I advise you get your digimon prepared. The same goes for you legendary Warriors. Train like you've never trained before. The event will take place two weeks from now. That means only fourteen days of peacetime. Now, onto the rules… They are simple really. If you manage to knock your opponent out for the ten count, you win. If your opponent can't make it to the ring by the ten-count limit, then you win. In fact, you can win a match even if you manage to kill your opponent. This is all about the fight for survival. Now, you are perhaps wondering what's the need for a Duel Monsters tournament? Simple. The winner of that small tournament will name the stipulations to the final match in the battle tournament. For instance, if a member on my team wins, then they cal automatically ask for the final match to be a fight to the death with no rules."
"I so have to enter this tournament!" Rei said as she pounds her fist on the floor.
"You can't without your powers," Ami replied.
"Not until we get into that Digital World and find that sword we've been overhearing about," Makoto said. "Cammy's the key to regaining our sailor powers."
"Me again? I don't even have memories of this Digital Priestess…"
"You'll regain them soon enough," Hotaru assured the girl. "That I can promise."
"As for the duel mosnters tournament… I advise that the earth's best duelist to attend my tournament. That includes you Yugi Muto. You're worldwide reputation is known and I'm sure there are many other duelists dying to knock you off your throne, win the title as the best duelist and name the stipulation to my battle tournament. You have two weeks to prepare yourselves for my grand tournament."
March 23, 2003
America. San Francisco
Looking on through his big screen monitor, Seto Kaiba looks on an icy-cold stare. He did not let Pharaohmon's presence intimidate him and he was dying to regain his top spot as the world's greatest duelist. Ever since his loss to Yugi at Battle City, he seeks nothing more than to rebound from that loss.
"Seto?"
"Mokuba. We're getting back home. This tournament has my interest peaked."
"Yugi's no doubt going to be in that tournament."
"Of course, he'll be there. This is my chance to rebound and once again become the top duelist."
"By the way, are you still feeling all right after the incident with the Blue Eyes?"
"Mokuba. Let's get one thing straight. That was a freak accident. It never happened. Let's move onto better things, such as this tournament."
"Right…"
"Though, I still wonder to this very day how that happened… Could Yugi actually be right?"
San Francisco City District. Local river walk
Many television sets and screens were broadcasting the announcement by Pharaohmon. There were many duelists gathered in the crowd with their duel disks prepared, but they didn't realize that only a select few would be chosen.
Looking on from the crowd was Duke Devilin. His interest soon peaked after hearing Pharaohmon's major announcement.
"Another tournament? Here we go again. Maybe I ought to enter too."
Another person who seemed mildly tweaked with interest was the blonde bombshell herself, Mai Valentine. Ever since her loss at Battle City and nearly having her life taken away by Marik, she hasn't spoken to anyone. Not even Yugi and his friends. Not even Joey. She felt alone without them.
March 24, 2003
Shibuya Train Station
Takuya and Tomoki were watching the announcement as they boarded across their train. They set off to inform their friends on the announcement.
Unknown to them, Neemon and Bokomon hid behind a trashcan as they caught glimpse of Takuya.
"Look! It's Takuya! I wonder if they already know about this announcement made by Pharaohmon! Oh this is terrible!"
"Hey, Bokomon… Lookie! I found a happy meal!"
Growing frustrated over his incompetent companion, Bokomon reached down and pulls back onto Neemon's pants. The pants wiped backward and slap Neemon across his posterior and he lets out a small yelp in pain.
"Ouchies!"
"Why am I always stuck with you? Now, c'mon! We have a train to catch! Takuya and the others will be so surprised to see us again!"
Genkai's Dojo
The old psychic was watching the television while sipping a cup of green tea. She made sure to listen to every single detail Pharaohmon has laid out according to this tournament.
Meanwhile, Yusuke Urameshi was hanging upside with his legs attached to chains with weight balls. They were approximately near a few hundred pounds on each foot. While he balanced himself with the weight ball, he placed a single finger over a needle spike. Sweat had trenched the teen's body and he couldn't help but curse under his breathe.
"Arrogant punk… He just had to go show his ugly mug on the damn TV…"
Local Cafe in Shibuya
Sitting at a table with coffee cups served to them, Setsuna had arrived to met with Michiru and Haruka. Before they had a chance to leave, they had their eyes glued towards the cafe's television.
"That's Pharaohmon," Setsuna said.
"Yes. We know," Harauka replied. "Michiru and myself sensed his presence as soon as he drove through Shinjuku."
"The dark clouds have already begun to loom," Michiru said. "But will the winds of fate change? Will light extinguish this great darkness?"
Shinjuku Market Area
Hiei walked passed an electronic store and immediately turned to find Pharaohmon's face through many of the available television sets.
"Gee, what kind of an egotistical fool would ever want to expose himself like this? It sickens me."
Just as he was about to reach out for his sword, he turned to find Kurama and Kuwabara walking by.
"Hiei! Whoa, I didn't figure we'd find you here!" Kuwabara said.
"I take it you've already become aware of the announcement, Hiei?"
"What kind of fools does he take us for? He's truly proven to be an arrogant fool. It will be his own undoing."
"Yeah, he sure is a showboat. I hate those kind of people," Kuwabara muttered.
"Don't talk down on yourself like that. It only makes you look pathetic."
"What did you say, shorty?!"
"Easy boys. This is no time to be bickering. With Yusuke training with Genkai, we need to make use of these two weeks."
"No need to worry about me. I'll train by myself if I have to! My arm has completely healed and I'm willing to use the dragon again. Pharaohmon is in for a rude awakening."
"For our sake, let's hope you live up to your word, pal," Kuwabara replied.
"You just had to mention such a ridiculous word? Never associate the 'P' word between us," Hiei scoffed under his breathe.
"You really need some anger management… Geez…"
Katsuya Residence
Gathered around the television, the Tamers, including Jeri and Suzie, had heard enough from Pharaohmon's announcement. The looks on their faces said it all. Each one of them wanted to tear Pharaohmon apart.
"Feh. What a show off," Felinismon said. "I'll be more than glad to kick his ass in the tournament."
"You can count me in, sista!" Terriermon replied.
"If I or any of my associates happen to win the battle tournament, then the human world shall belong to me. Each and everyone of you humans will be discarded and become my slaves… How does that sound? Have I spread enough fear as it is?"
"Damn him!" Rika cursed.
"I'm so taking him down!" Takato said.
Elsewhere in the room, Himura was sitting at the dining table with his godparents. He, Inumon and Dark Gabumon had explained everything to them about not just Pharaohmon but the kidnapping of Yui. Maya Katsuya buried her face against her husband, Hiroshi, and cried in anguish for the loss of Yui.
"Our sweet… Yui… Oh my god…"
"Maya…"
"I'm responsible for this. If I hadn't yelled at her, then this wouldn't have happened!"
"Himura. Yui is still within that monster. It's up to us alone to free her completely," Inumon assured the boy. "This is no one's fault but Pharaohmon's!"
"What makes me think I should believe that?! She's turned into a blood-thirsty mosnter because of me alone!"
"Himura! Quit blaming yourself, son," Mr. Katsuya said. "You even said yourself you couldn't do anything to stop that maniac on the TV."
"Then, we're going to have to face him ourselves, guys! What do you say?! We'll send a message to that bastard and show him we're not going to be pushed around!"
"You said it!" Jeri said. "Himura. We're with you all the way."
"When it comes down to it, one of us will be facing Pharaohmon inevitably," Takato said. "What if we end up facing each other just to get a shot at Pharaohmon?"
"If that's the case, Takato, then may the best Tamer win."
"Agreed."
The Tamers shifted back their focus on the television to find Pharaohmon wrapping up on his announcement. The demon had succeeded to spread fear to the entire globe, including those in Japan. With Pharaohmon making his departure from the television screen, the Tamers walked back into the dining room with mixed reactions.
"I don't know about you guys, but I think I'm going to take a pass on this one," Kazu said.
"Yeah, we'll let you guys handle it from here," replied Kenta.
"Oh no, you two. You're coming along too," Renamon said with a menacing glare towards the two frightened boys.
"Ha! Way to whip those two slackers into shape!" Inumon chuckled.
"Trust me. You have no idea…"
Himura decides to take a moment to walk outside into the backyard to think things over and rethink his plans. Takato followed him out and stopped Himura at his tracks.
"Takato?"
"You can't go on like this, Himura. Your godparents seem understanding of the situation. I believe they trust us into saving your sister. Now wipe that frown off your face, buddy. We're going to pull through."
Despite Takato's efforts, Himura couldn't even lift a smile from his face. The goggle head had nearly given up trying everything he could to lighten Himura's mood. However, his worries were put to a halt as a thunderous voice calls out from out of nowhere.
"Himura! It's been a long time!"
The boy's ears twitched at the sound of that ever so familiar voice. It has been nearly two years since he had heard it. He turns to find a tall, figure with a dog-like appearance. His outfit consisted of Egyptian attire. Golden accessories covered his neck and arms and a tan dress covered his legs. His skin is light blue with dark stripes over his arms and chest. A pair of eagle-like wings spread across his back with beautiful magnificence. The digimon looks down to Himura and nodded his head.
"Anubimon?"
"Whoa, this is Anubimon?!" Takato asked.
With that said, the Tamers came rushing out to find Anubimon standing before them. Inumon was stunned to find his master having returned after two long years. The Tamers' digimon had laid their eyes upon the god man digimon for the first time ever.
"Lord Anubimon! It's you! What a surprise to see you again!" Inumon exclaimed.
"Whoa, so this is the big guy himself? The ruler of the Underworld?!" asked Dark Gabumon.
"His presence is overwhelming," Renamon said. "So, what do you think, Rika?"
"I'm speechless…"
"Have any side remarks now, Terriermon?"
"Uh, no comment. I'm keeping my mouth shut on this one."
"Wow, he's a really big guy," Guilmon said. "Takatomon!"
"Stay where you are guys. Looks like Himura can take it from here," Takato stated promptly.
As soon as he said that, the crew moved aside to allow Himura and Anubimon some space. The god man moves to the side to allow a serpent to slither past him. Seadramon came into exposure. This is the partner to the now deceased Kotori. Inumon steps out into the open and faces off with Seadramon. He noticed that Seadramon's eyes were healed. This was the result of Anubimon's healing magic.
"Seadramon! Ol' buddy! It's good to see you again!"
"Likewise, it's been a while, Inumon."
Inumon embraces Seadramon. This managed to touch Himura emotionally as he was happy to see the two long time allies reunite. Anubimon cleared his throat and immediately draws Himura's attention.
"Lord Anubimon."
"Himura. It's been a while my friend. I'm glad to know that you and Inumon are in good health."
"I'm surprised to see you and Seadramon here in the real world."
"You shouldn't. There has been a recent breach into the Underworld's prison. A dark force had infiltrated and helped Basilikmon to escape."
"What?! Basilikmon?!"
"Yes. Those two even released the prisons of the many dark digimon imprisoned there. They have been freed and it is beyond my control to capture all of them. It seems this dark force wields more power than I possess."
"There's no doubt about it! It's Pharaohmon! He's responsible for this!"
"Wait! You mean those evil digimon we just saw on the television with Pharaohmon?! Some of those guys look like the villains from the TV series!"
"They don't look like them, Takato. They are the real deal," Henry stated. "If memory serves me right, those evil digimon were sent to the dark area after being slain."
"That is correct human," Anubimon said. "How fortunate to find great minds in this realm. These dark-hearted digimon were sent from another world into the dark area and I judged their fates one by one. To ensure that they never escape, I had them sealed into my prison. Basilikmon is amongst those monsters."
"Now it's beginning to become clear," Felinismon said. "These monsters were to be kept there until their final judgment. Answer us another question, Anubimon. Are you aware about the announcement of Pharaohmon's tournament?"
"I am. I plan to enter myself to deal with that treacherous demon."
"Besides, we're here to help train you all," Seadramon said. "There's only two weeks until the event."
"We appreciate the help," Takato said. "It really means a lot to us."
"So you're Seadramon?" Dark Gabumon said. "I thought your eyes were slashed and you forced yourself to become blind."
"After I failed to stop Pharaohmon from free Basilikmon, I asked Anubimon to restore my vision. I want to make up for my failure by volunteering to help you train. Inumon. I'm sure Kotori would want me to prepare you for your eventual face off with Basilikmon. I know you're dying to get your hands on him."
"You have no idea! I still haven't forgiven him for the crime he has committed!"
"I'm afraid I'll have to turn down this offer, Lord Anubimon," Himura stated.
"Himura? What are you saying? You can't simply bail out now when we just arrived."
"I can't… That monster had kidnapped my sister, Yui, and converted her into the side of darkness. She's been turned into a demon named Nemesis and she nearly killed me! I let her down! It's my own fault that Kotori is dead and Yui has been taken away from me! It's all my fault!"
The boy fell to his knees and started to tear up once again. The Tamers couldn't help but feel distraught for the heart-broken Himura.
"Himura. They're here to help us," Inumon said.
"Surely you can't turn down this offer," replied Dark Gabumon. "By training, we can save Yui!"
"I can't. I'm sorry, Lord Anubimon… But we must decline this offer. I simply cannot go on without my sister."
"Himura. Haven't we already discussed this?" Takato asked. "C'mon, you have to toughen up. Our common enemy is Pharaohmon after all."
"He's right, Himura! We'll help you through this depression!" Jeri calls out.
"Himura. I should have done this a long time ago," Anubimon's voice thundered.
The Egyptian god man looked down at the crying boy and raised his hand. Before Himura could realize it, Anubimon delivers a painful slap on the young boy's right cheek. The Tamers gasped in shock and Inumon couldn't believe to what Anubimon had done. Before the demon canine could do anything, Seadramon restrains him back with his tail. The serpent nods his head and let him know to not take an unnecessary course of action.
Himura touched his swollen cheek and made eye contact with Anubimon.
"None of this is your fault. What happened to Kotori was indeed a tragedy, especially for you since you were her only true friend," the god man spoke. "The same goes for Yui. If you want to blame anyone, you can blame Pharaohmon and myself. But right now, you have to be stronger for your beloved sister's sake. We cannot allow Pharaohmon to have his way."
The boy sits up from the ground and wipes his tears away. He looks up at the lord of the Underworld and gives an assuring nod.
"You're right, Lord Anubimon. I do need to be stronger… for Yui's sake. She depends on us to save her."
"Now, do you accept my offer to train you and your new friends?"
Himura looks back to the Digimon Tamers and smiles. He gives Anubimon another nod. This time he had finally agreed to the god man's offer.
"We accept, Lord Anubimon."
"Himura. We're proud of your decision," Takato said. "Well, guys. This is it. Let this these next two weeks become the most important few weeks ever. We're entering a situation where we face an enemy greater than anything we've managed to overcome."
"This time we have justice on our side," Henry said. "We face enemies who are truly threatening our very existence."
"We're not dealing with any deletion program or Devas fighting for their own form of justice," Rika said. "The very essence of evil has presented itself."
"We'll be sure to extinguish this evil presence," Himura stated. "We'll save those that have become victims of this darkness. That includes my sister…"
"We don't be pushed around anymore," Inumon stated promptly. "We'll be ready for anything Pharaohmon has in store for us."
"You guys. Let's be sure to tell Yugi and the others. After all, they will be participating in that duel monsters portion of the event."
Just then, Takato's cell phone went off as he quickly answered and replied to the caller.
"Hello? Takato Matsuda speaking…"
"Takato! It's me, Yugi! Hey, can you tell Felinismon to teleport us over? Boy, do we have a lot to talk about."
"Um, sure. I'll be sure to let her know."
"Who is it?" Felinismon asked.
"It's Yugi. He's wondering if you can teleport him and the others from their hometown to this very spot."
"Oh. Well, sure. That can be done," the feline said as an anime sweat drop falls over her head. "As long as he provides me with a Kuriboh plushy doll! Aww, they are so cute!"
"Heh. Heh. Sure. Yugi said that can be done."
"It's a deal then! I'm on my way over!"
"Jeri. How did you manage to partner up with a weirdo like her?" Kazu asked.
"Don't ask me, but we sure do go well together. We both love being weird," Jeri said.
"Now with that settled, we can get started with the training, Anubimon," Takato said.
"Good. I have already provided the perfect training grounds where we will be going."
"Anubimon. Thank you."
"No, Himura. It's my gift to you. You helped to stop Basilikmon and played your part i the Underworld. Let me repay the debt."
Himura replies with a nod to the lord of the Underworld. Inumon puts his hand over Himura's shoulder and smiles.
"Let's get started, partner."
"You said it!"
And soon… With two weeks lingering on our heroes, they must train and prepare for the upcoming tournament held in the Digital World by Pharaohmon. Yugi and his friends look to sharpen up their dueling skills. They even look to teach Takato and the Tamers the basic rules to duel monsters. The Legendary Warriors are already buckling down for these next two weeks, but they would soon be graced by the presence of a mighty warrior who had claimed to seal Metaldevidramon. Cammy has yet to regain her memories as the Digital priestess but it will not be long until she and the Sailor Senshi enter the Digital World to find the sword wielded by the Priestess.
Meanwhile, Yusuke must buckle down with Genkai for amplify his spirit energy. Brimstone is still in the lurks as he looks to prey upon the Spirit Detectives. Nemesis and Yami Bakura have become the newest editions to Pharaohmon's clan. Can Yui manage to break through Nemesis and reunite with her brother? Pharaohmo has already rounded up some of the most vile and ruthless roster of villains to take part in the tournament.
These next two weeks will be the most important countdown the earth has never endured. The fate of the human/digital worlds will be put at stake. Who shall become the ultimate gladiator once the dust has settled?
[PREVIEW]
Yugi: Hey, everyone! Our first day of training begins. While the digimon are being trained by Anubimon, Joey and I take it upon ourselves to teach the Tamers the basics of duel monsters.
Takato: Wow! Those cards are so awesome! I'll be the best duelist once these two weeks are up!
Rika: Ha, in your dreams, goggle head!
Takuya: Meanwhile, another monster has attacked Shibuya. Nemesis has let loose a rather strong monster for us Legendary Warriors to deal with. What's this?! Omegamon is going to aid us?!
Izumi: I'm not sure if we should trust him. We've had our bad luck with Royal Knights.
Omegamon: I can assure you I fight for justice. Please, allow me to train you Legendary Warriors. I must find Metaldevidramon and slay him!
Rei: Haruka and Michiru finally arrive only to be interrupted by Nemesis.
Nemesis: Sailor Senshi. I've been sent to exterminate you before you even have a chance to enter the Digital World!
Michiru: We're dealing with an enemy that can create spiritual bombs!
Haruka: A new concept for a rather strong enemy.
Hiei: Why are there Makai insects spreading in Shinjuku and Shibuya?
Kurama: We must get to the bottom of this.
Brimstone: Fortunately, Pharaohmon has opened a portal into the demon realm. These insects will pull the Spirit Detectives out of hiding.
Jeri: Next time!
Countdown to the Shadow Tournament! Let the Preparations Begin!
Felinismon: Be sure not to miss it!
OOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO
Kanius: All right, guys! The stage has been set! The countdown is on and this will surely beat the Olympics!
Coral: Bigger than the Super Bowl. There will be only two chapters until the tournament officially begins. We're not that far away, peeps.
Kanius: Well this has been quite the chapter! The next chapter should be posted next week since I'll be getting to work on the Super Artificial series of D-Frontier! Until then, check back for updates! Peace!