Disclaimer: I don't own Digimon.
A/N: I'm back with another chapter! I had a bit of a challenge writing the second POV for this chapter, but even so I really enjoyed it. In fact, I actually teared up several times while I was writing it. I've started writing the next chapter as well, so hopefully I can get that one out to you guys soon! I really hope you all love this chapter. It's one of those chapters that really comes from the heart.
Following the Footsteps of Destiny
Chapter 286: A Father's Love
Masato 'Matty' Takaishi
Odaiba, Japan, Earth
Matty stood silently in the foyer of the Motomiya residence, the murmur of voices from both the kitchen and the living room echoing through the front entryway, and frowning he restlessly shuffled his feet, his mind wandering to a distant place where he was free to be alone with his thoughts.
It was now fairly late in the evening, and though he was always happy to spend time with his friends and their families, he was very tired and impatient to get home. He could almost hear his bed calling out to him, and the thought of finally being able to rest his body was making it difficult for him to stay awake.
At this point, most of the others had already gone home, which left only a few families still lagging behind at the Motomiya residence, and as usual his parents were two of the last ones to leave. Normally he didn't mind waiting for them, but thanks to the harrowing ordeal he had been through earlier, he couldn't help wishing that his parents wouldn't talk so much so he could go home, especially since it was getting pretty late in the evening.
When I left the room, Rina was sleeping on the floor, and so were all of our digimon. And as for Mickey, I don't know where he's gone off to...
"Matty?"
Matty jumped at the unexpected sound of his name, and whirling around he spotted a figure standing in the doorway that led to the living room. In the dying light coming through the small glass window in the doorway, he recognized the dark hair and slim form of Taniko Izumi, and instantly feeling his face heat up, he quickly averted his eyes and proceeded to stare at the collection of shoes scattered all over the floor in the entryway.
Though it hadn't much fazed him earlier when he was telling his story to an audience, now that he was alone with Taniko, he couldn't help feeling a bit self-conscious about the way the darkness in his heart had created a shadow version of her in the Ice Caverns. Taniko's doppelganger had taunted him and said some pretty nasty things to him, and thinking back on it now, Matty couldn't help feeling a bit ashamed of himself.
How could he have ever believed that a sweet girl like Taniko would behave like that when she was the exact opposite of everything her doppelganger had represented. In all his life, he didn't think the girl had ever spoken a harsh word to anyone, and her warm and caring demeanor had always made her very approachable. After all the terrible things he had believed to be true about her in the Ice Caverns, how could she stand there now gazing at him with such a gentle smile on her face?
She's always been super nice to me, probably even when I haven't deserved it. I wonder why she's here now when she could be spending time with her family? And if not her family, then what about Tay and her other friends? Then again...she did seem pretty happy to see me after we got back from the Digital World. Maybe she was looking for me? Although...I'm not really sure why she would do that...
"Matty, is everything okay?" Taniko asked softly, her dark eyes studying his restless profile.
Matty shook his head in an effort to clear his thoughts, and giving the brunette female a quick smile, he said, "No, I'm fine. Actually, I'm surprised you're still here. I would have thought your dad would be itching to get home so he could spend the rest of the night talking with Gennai."
Taniko smiled at that, and nodding in agreement, she said, "He just wants to finish up a couple of things on his laptop before we go. My mom's talking with Noriko and your aunts while we wait. What about your family? I thought you guys would of left a while ago. That's why it took me by surprise to see you standing here."
Matty shrugged his shoulders in reply, and feeling a bit embarrassed, he said, "Well, you know what my parents are like, especially when they're visiting with my aunts and uncles. Sometimes I feel like they'll never stop talking. I mean, they all see each other all the time, so I'm not really sure how they can always find so much to talk about."
Taniko laughed at the mild annoyance in his tone, and glancing back over her shoulder towards the living room, she said, "The same way we all find things to talk about with our friends, I guess. So you're just waiting to leave then?"
"Something like that."
There was a moment of silence, and feeling a bit uncertain of what to do with himself, Matty glanced longingly towards the door, wishing desperately that he could curl up under his own blankets and rest his head on his soft pillow for the night.
A nice, dreamless sleep. That's what I need.
He was so absorbed in the thought of a warm bed and a clean set of pyjamas that he almost stumbled in surprise when he suddenly felt Taniko's presence standing by his elbow, her dark head just reaching the bottom of his chin, and glancing at her, he found himself staring into her intense, cocoa-coloured eyes.
Luckily he caught himself before taking an involuntary step backwards, and trying desperately not to blush at her sudden closeness, he quickly rearranged his features into a more neutral expression.
Taniko had her father's calm demeanor and her mother's beauty, and though she had the kind of eyes that could burn through your soul, there was always an air of peace and serenity about her when you stood within her presence. Though she was quite slim and petite, her strength of will and elegant poise made her seem larger than her small frame gave her credit for, and the grace with which she carried herself made you feel like you were standing in the presence of someone who knew exactly what they was doing. Like her mother, Taniko carried herself like a queen, her shoulders straight and her head held high. There wasn't much that normally fazed her, and having also received a healthy dose of her father's superior intelligence, Matty had no doubt she would carry on in her father's footsteps, her developing interest in the Digital World making it obvious she would like to continue on with Izzy's research when the day eventually came that the older man would have to leave his work behind.
And she'll be good at too. That much I can tell already.
It was with some surprise that Matty suddenly realized Taniko was a lot of things, and it was only now that he was truly starting to discover all the different aspects of her personality.
And the more he learned, the more he was starting to like what he saw.
She's like Ami. Kind of exotic looking. I guess she gets that from her mom, who's super petty. I mean, no offence to Izzy or anything like that. Now that I think about it, all the girls are nice looking in their own way, but I don't know...I think Taniko has the most appealing looks and the most appealing personality out of all of them. At least, for me.
"Ami. She was up there when you guys came home," Taniko said, breaking the silence between them and looking as if she was trying not to smile. "I bet she must have been quite upset."
Matty blinked at the abrupt change in subject, and realizing he had been staring at her with a stupid look on his face, he sheepishly scratched the back of his golden hair and said in embarrassment, "Kind of. I don't know exactly what was going on, but I'm thinking she kind of has a thing for my cousin?"
"I would say that's likely the case," Taniko replied, looking very amused. "I assume he didn't seem to mind?"
Matty thought about that for a moment, and shaking his head, he said dryly, "Considering I don't think I've ever seen him smiling like an idiot before, I would say he seemed pretty happy about it."
Taniko laughed at that, and growing serious all of a sudden, she said gently, "You know, Ami wasn't the only one who was worried about what was going on in the Ice Caverns. For me, and I'm sure for the others as well, it wasn't just about Ryoko. We were worried about you, too. I was worried about you, and I was scared you might not come back to us. I was...afraid I was never going to see you again."
This time, Matty couldn't stop himself from blushing, and ducking his head, he mumbled, "About that...Listen, I want to apologize to you. I owe you that much at least."
"Why?" Taniko asked, looking genuinely curious.
"I...well...do you remember my story from earlier? One of those shadows took on your form. The darkness in my heart created a doppelganger of you, which wasn't fair to you. I should have trusted you more than that, especially after how you've made a point of going out of you way to help me before, but I didn't, and for that I apologize."
"Matty, there's nothing to apologize for. I know the experience you went through taught you more than that," Taniko said gently, reaching out to put her hand on his shoulder. "It wasn't that you didn't trust me, or any of the others, for that matter. The problem was you didn't trust yourself, which made you believe you weren't worth our trust in return."
"But, you've always been so nice to me, and-"
"I don't want an apology," Taniko interrupted, removing her slim fingers from his shoulder so she could give his hand a squeeze. "I know in your heart you've always trusted me, just like I trust you."
It was such a sincere and thoughtful statement for someone so young to make that for a moment Matty was speechless, and hesitantly squeezing her hand in return, he said, "Really, you trust me?"
"Maybe we haven't had as many chances to hang out with each other as you've had with Dai and the rest of your friends over the years, but that doesn't mean I haven't come to know you very well," Taniko replied, her dark eyes sparkling in the shaft of fading sunlight streaming through the window carved into the front door. "You have no idea how much everybody admires you for just being you. Your very existence is more significant than you realize, and I have a feeling...I think whatever the future holds, you're going to finally have the opportunity to see it for yourself."
Taniko...
Matty had no idea how to respond to that, and as they stood there in that small shaft of sunlight, Taniko slowly put her arms around him and said quietly into his shoulder, "The way you handled the situation with Dai and Ryoko is admirable. You should be proud of yourself and your friends."
Matty froze at the sudden physical contact between them, and slowly placing his arms around her in return, he said, "Thanks, Taniko. That means a lot to me."
"Just don't forget what I said," the girl murmured into his shoulder. "About how important you are."
Matty could feel himself blushing again, and shrugging his shoulders, he said as nonchalantly as he could, "I don't know about that, but if you really think so then that makes me feel pretty happy. You're quite special yourself you know, and I haven't forgotten the way you helped me out with Sam. You're going to be every bit as awesome as your dad when it comes to helping us with Digital World stuff."
"I hope so," Taniko replied, her arms tightening around his slim waist.
They stood there with their arms around each other for a moment, and aware of how warm and comfortable Taniko felt in his embrace, Matty couldn't help moving even closer. She felt so different than that horrible shadow that had pretended to be her, and he wondered if she could feel the way his heart was beating a bit faster than usual. At the moment, he couldn't see her face, since it was still buried against his shoulder, but he had a feeling she was smiling.
Her hair feels really soft too. I like how it's so shiny, and it hangs all the way down her back. It also smells really nice, like some kind of fruit.
After a moment of comfortable silence, he reached up to stroke that dark hair he couldn't seem to stop thinking about, but just as his fingers grazed the top of her head, an embarrassed voice said, "Oh, I'm sorry! I didn't mean to interrupt."
Matty immediately recognized his brother's soft voice, and quickly pulling away from Taniko, he felt his face grow hot and said hastily, "It's fine. Were you looking for me?"
Mickey was standing just inside the door, the sleeping forms of Goldmon and Palelymon held protectively in his arms, and looking as if he regretted having walked in at the wrong moment, the older twin said, "I was, yes. Mom and Dad are ready to leave now."
"I guess that means I'll see you later then?" Taniko asked, avoiding his eyes as she put a little distance between them.
Matty nodded, and smiling at her, he said, "Sure. I'm looking forward to it."
Taniko glanced quickly at him, her dark eyes lighting up as she placed her hands behind her back, and giving the girl a sympathetic look, Mickey said apologetically, "I'm truly sorry. If I had known..."
"It's fine," Taniko said quickly, her expression immediately softening at the older twin's words. "There's always next time."
"Yes, I hope so," Mickey replied, smiling in return.
Huh?
Matty frowned in confusion, and scratching his golden hair again, he said, "What are you guys talking about?"
"Nothing," Mickey said softly, smiling at him.
"I guess I'd better go find my own parents," Taniko said, glancing quickly at the adult couple that had just come through the door with their partner digimon. "See you guys later!"
Matty watched as the girl smiled at him before quickly ducking under his father's arm to get through the door, and watching her go, his mother said, "I hope there's nothing wrong with Taniko? She seemed a bit nervous."
"Gee, I wonder why," Gatomon muttered, crossing her arms over her chest as she stood next to her partner.
"She's fine," Mickey said cheerfully, ignoring Gatomon's jibe and beaming at their mother. "Shall we get going then?"
Rina was fast asleep in their father's arms, her head resting on the golden-haired Digidestined's shoulder, and glancing up at a snoozing Patamon, who was sleeping on his head, their father let out a loud yawn and said, "Probably a good idea. After the adventure you two have had over the last couple days, I'm sure you can use a good rest."
Matty yawned himself, and stretching his arms, he said, "That's for sure. Let's get going."
As they left the house, Matty couldn't help glancing over his shoulder towards the door, and thinking back on Taniko's words, he found himself wondering if indeed her predictions would eventually come true. If they did, he could only hope he would be strong enough to protect his brother and his friends.
"You're thinking about something," Mickey said close to his ear as the two of them headed for the car. "I can tell."
Matty shrugged, and giving his brother a quick look, he said, "Maybe."
"You are strong, Matty. I know you are," Mickey said quietly, glancing away from him. "And Taniko knows it, too."
Taniko...I wonder, could she maybe be feeling the same as I do? She's younger than me, but not by that much...
"Old enough," Mickey said discreetly, hugging the two in-training digimon close to his chest and looking amused.
Matty felt his face turn a deep shade of red, and hitting his twin in the shoulder, he said fiercely, "Will you stop doing that?"
"Doing what?" Mickey asked innocently, shifting the digimon in his arms to rub his injured shoulder.
Feeling incredibly embarrassed, Matty stomped away from the older twin, and huffing indignantly, he shouted back over his shoulder, "Reading my mind!"
Behind him, he could hear Mickey laughing, and knowing the older twin could read him like a book, he was determined not to rise to the bait. It was rather inconvenient to be on the receiving end of their playful banter, since normally it was the other way around.
I guess he got me this time, though. Brother's are great, but sometimes they do get under your skin, just like friends. And speaking of friends...
Matty waited by the car door in silence as his father settled Rina into her booster seat, and thinking back on his ordeal in the Digital World, it brought to mind a certain blond friend of his, whose image had also been stolen by the shadows.
It had been a while since they had talked, and as much as we wanted to climb into bed, he was starting to think a good snooze was going to have to wait. Perhaps it was time to have a chat with the boy whom he was sure wasn't such a harbinger of darkness after all.
More like a gift of light.
If his experiences in the Digital World had taught him anything, it was the fact that relationships could be fragile if you didn't put your whole heart and soul into making them work. It was important to hold onto your friends and your family, no matter what problems unfolded because at the end of the day there was no distance too great to overcome as long as you were willing to do anything to cross the gap to reach those who waited for you on the other side.
It was all about breaking down walls and barriers, and if there was one thing Matty had proved to himself during his last few days in the Digital World, he had made it clear that smashing barriers was something he could do.
And as he stood there waiting for all of their digimon to be placed inside the vehicle, he couldn't help wondering if that gift he seemed to have might one day change the course of the future.
Matt Ishida
Odaiba, Japan, Earth
A single lamp burned on the small stand next to the sofa, the dim glow of the light shining steadily behind the shade doing its best to keep the coming darkness at bay, and standing just inside the door of the living room, his gaze silent and watchful, Matt Ishida crossed his arms over his chest and proceeded to study the remaining occupants of the room with careful scrutiny.
On the sofa, Ryoko was curled up beneath a thick blanket, and from his vantage point by the door, Matt could hear his son's deep, even breathing, making it obvious that the boy must have fallen asleep.
Unfortunately, though, it was getting late, and as much as he didn't want to disturb his son's peaceful slumber, the boy was too heavy for Mimi or Sora to carry out of the house, thus Ryoko would have to be roused to get the golden-haired Digidestined to the Kamiya's vehicle, which was still sitting in the driveway behind the van that Davis and Noriko owned.
Why the Kamiya's Toyota and not his own car?
Well, normally Matt would have just carried the boy out himself to his own black Honda that was sitting by the curb, but since he wasn't intending on heading to his own residence just yet, the task of bringing Ryoko home would be left to Sora, if she was willing to help him out.
I hope she won't mind because there's something else I have to do first...
And it was something he didn't intend to put off for too much longer.
If I leave him like this, chances are he'll do something stupid, and I don't want to have to clean up the mess later.
Glancing once more at his son, whose eyes were still closed, he took a moment to smile fondly at the boy before turning his attention to the only two remaining occupants in the room.
Izzy had moved over to sit next to Tai on the loveseat, and every so often they would murmur quietly to each other as the computer expert tapped away steadily on his keyboard, his dark eyes narrowed in concentration as he squinted at the glowing screen in front of him.
The light streaming through the window had faded considerably, and as far as he knew, only Izzy's family, Tai's family, and his own family still remained at the Motomiya residence, the rest having already done the sensible thing by leaving earlier in the evening. T.K's family had been the last to leave about a half hour ago, and once Izzy finished up whatever he was doing, Matt was sure the Izumi family would be on their way as well.
Behind him, he could hear the voices of Mina, Mimi, Sora, and Noriko talking softly in the kitchen, and earlier Davis had disappeared upstairs to finish up some paperwork for his business, which he had apparently been hoping to have done for Monday, but thanks to the former leader's habit of slacking off, he was now having to rush to get it finished for the deadline.
To be fair, though, he was needed in the Digital World, and I wouldn't have given up the chance to go anymore than he would have.
Ami, Takara, Taysuke, and Taniko had disappeared upstairs as well after the Takaishi family had left, and Noriko had forced Daichi to go take a shower, thus the reason why Ryoko had been left to entertain himself. All of the remaining digimon were fast asleep in front of the television stand with Dai's dog, and studying his digital companion for a moment, Matt decided he would give the rookie a few more moments of rest before sending him home with Ryoko. Gabumon was obviously tired, and sparing a moment to smile fondly at his partner just as he had his son, he allowed himself a moment to reflect on their many years of friendship before once again turning his attention to the two men who were seated on the smaller sofa.
Izzy looked as he always did, his face scrunched up in concentration as he focused on his laptop, and thus Matt found himself studying the dark-haired man seated next to Izzy, who looked almost unrecognizable in the dim lighting of the room.
Tai's skull was resting against the back of the couch, and though his eyes were open, the former leader's dark gaze didn't look as if it were focusing on anything in particular. Instead, Tai's deep brown eyes were directed towards the ceiling, and though it looked like the former leader was staring blankly at the paint and plaster above their heads, Matt knew his old friend's mind was far away at the moment.
Even at the age of forty-one, Tai was normally full of boundless energy, and despite his age, he still looked so young and vibrant, as if time could never touch him the way it did others. Staring at the former leader now, though, Matt was surprised at how much older the man looked, and it caught him by surprise.
Tai, exhausted? That was preposterous. Simply unheard of, and yet the evidence was clear. At the moment, there were dark shadows under the former leader's eyes, and his normally smiling face looked tired and worn down by the harsh realities of life. Tai's expression didn't reveal much, but Matt could tell there was a shadow in the man's dark eyes, and he looked worried about something. The slight frown on the former leader's face made the fine lines around his mouth and the faint wrinkles at the corners of his eyes stand out much more prominently than usual, and the touch of grey at his temples was more obvious than it had ever been before.
In that moment, Tai looked old and weary, and something in Matt's heart seemed to resonate with the former leader's obvious pain and exhaustion.
After everything he's been through over the last twenty-five years, there's only one thing that could shatter his confidence like this.
Matt couldn't deny that his old friend's outward appearance concerned him, and if he knew Tai as well as he believed he did, the former leader's inward feelings probably weren't looking much better. It was hard to watch, since the two of them had been friends for many years now, and knowing how much Tai was suffering, it took everything in his willpower not to go over there and confront the former leader about his behaviour.
These days, everything was easy with Tai, and after the many times they had been connected to one another during the course of their roles as Digidestined, Matt wasn't a stranger to the former leader's inwards feelings. Earlier, when they had brought forth Omnimon in the Digital World, he had sensed Tai's growing concern through the bond they shared, but at the time, there hadn't been much he could do about it.
But that was then, and this is now. If I had to make a guess, I would say he's worrying about Takara.
And truthfully Matt couldn't blame the man.
Though Tai was normally an easygoing person, the former leader could be very protective of his children if he thought they were in danger, and Matt knew better than anybody that Tai would die for his kids if he had to.
It was a feeling Matt could relate to, since he was pretty protective of Ryoko, and now that he and Mimi were expecting another child, he knew that feeling would only intensify rather than dissipate. Double the children meant not only double the love, but also double the amount of worry, and that was something Matt was going to have to deal with himself in the next few months.
Takara was Tai's first born child, and Matt knew no matter how much he was trying to hide it, the former leader was very concerned about his daughter's sudden change in attitude.
Tai had definitely noticed the way Takara was behaving, and though Matt was sure the former leader hadn't confronted his daughter about her strange mood as of yet, that didn't mean he wasn't thinking about doing so.
Except there was one problem with that. Though Tai was normally confident and in control of his own emotions, at the moment the former leader looked like he was at a complete loss of what to do. It was so very unlike Tai not to have a clear path in front of him that in some ways, even above Takara's odd behaviour, that was the most concerning thing of all.
It's not like him to give up so easily. Normally he wouldn't hesitate to confront Takara about attitude, so why is he holding back this time?
Though he tried valiantly to come up with an answer to that question, Matt was unable to figure out the logic behind Tai's silence, but that didn't mean he was going to let it go. For many years Ryoko had been his only child, but that was only true in the case of blood relations. In reality, he had always had a daughter, and he was every bit as concerned about Takara as her biological father was. When the female Digidestined was first born, he had been the first to hold her after Joe, the hospital staff, and her parents, and he could still remember her tiny hands and feet and those big eyes that had opened for just a second to look at him before closing again. She hadn't cried once while he held her, and she had seemed perfectly content to remain in his arms. At the time, Mimi had still been expecting, and Ryoko was born about three weeks later, and he could still remember how looking at Takara's small body, in need of love and protection, had really opened his eyes as to what it meant to be a father. It was then that he had made a vow to himself that he would be the best father he could be, and no matter what happened he was always going to love and support his own child, who was due to arrive very soon.
On that day, Tai had been so proud of his new baby girl, and he'd been eager to talk about her and introduce her to anybody who would give him the time of day. The former leader had been absolutely beaming over his new daughter and grinning like an idiot, and at the time, Matt hadn't been able to resist teasing the former leader about it. Tai hadn't cared a bit, though, and while the mood had been light and everybody was celebrating, at one point Tai had pulled him aside, the former leader's face looking suddenly serious.
When Matt had asked his old friend what was wrong, Tai had assured him it was nothing, except that he had a favour to ask.
Even to this day, Matt had never forgotten what Tai had asked him to do, and as he stood there gazing at the former leader's tired face, the words came back to him clear as if he had only just heard them yesterday.
"Matt, promise me if anything happens to Sora and I that you'll protect my baby girl and keep her safe."
He had never forgotten those words, and quickly turning away from the former leader, he took a moment to collect himself and his thoughts.
After the birth of his second child, Tai had asked for the same promise about Taysuke, and naturally Matt had agreed. Though the former leader had been through the whole process already, his enthusiasm and love for Tay had been every bit as obvious as it had been for Takara. Tai had been just as proud of his son and eager to show him off as he had been for Kara, and that paternal instinct hadn't dampened in the years between his two children. That said a lot about Tai's character. He was a wonderful father, there was no question about that, but right now he was hurting, and for the first time since his children were born, Tai looked at a loss as to how he was going to protect them from themselves.
I asked him the same favour when Ryoko was born, and he promised me that if there was ever a time when Mimi and I wouldn't be able to look after our son, he and Sora would care for Ryoko as if he was their own. I know the two of them would never let me down, and I don't intend to break my promise to them either.
Which was why he needed to do something about Takara.
I wonder...There's no question she's got Tai's courage and his sense of adventure, but maybe she's more like Sora than we realize...
Behind him, the foyer was shrouded in gloomy shadows, and since the sun was setting, only a faint beam of weak light shone through the window on the door, giving the entryway a haunting appearance.
A soft sound on the carpeted stairs suddenly caught his attention, and slipping unnoticed from the living room, he stepped into the foyer and immediately stopped short, his sapphire eyes coming to rest on the slim figure that stood halfway up the stairs, her hand resting hesitantly on the banister.
For a moment, the girl stared at him in uneasy silence, and right away Matt realized the sound he had heard was the light weight of her feet coming down the stairs.
Takara's eyes looked haunted in the dim light streaming through the window, and as the shadows pooled around her feet, he could just barely make out the dark circles under her eyes and the strained expression that marred her pretty face.
It was unsettling to see her cloaked in the gloomy atmosphere of the small entryway, and though she was obviously struggling, Matt felt a sense of pride at the way she still held herself like a queen, her back straight and her chin up.
As they stared at each other, Takara hesitated before descending the rest of the way down, and moving carefully towards her, Matt said calmly, "I was wondering where you had got to."
Takara glanced over his shoulder towards the door, as if suspicious that somebody was spying on them, and avoiding his eyes, she said quietly, "Were you looking for me?"
Matt crossed his arms over his chest, and refusing to look away, he said smoothly, "That depends on whether or not you were interested in speaking to me."
Caught off guard, Takara glanced sharply at him, and lips starting to tremble, she said, "I don't really have anything to say."
"To your parents maybe, but I was hoping you would make an exception for me."
The haunted expression on Takara's face seemed to deepen, and taking a step back from him, she said shortly, "I know what you're like with him. I know how you guys have always been. Even if I were to confide in you, you would just tell my father."
"If you really believe that I would betray your trust, then I think you need to reconsider your outlook on the way you view those who care about you and only have your best interests at heart."
For a moment, Takara looked completely stunned by his words, and flushing under his scrutinizing stare, she mumbled, "I...I don't know what you mean."
"And besides, even if I did feel inclined to speak to your father, in this particular case especially, I would refrain from doing so."
"W-why?"
Matt let out a deep sigh, and crossing his arms over his chest, he said quietly, "Because I'd like to think that you would have the courage to tell him what's wrong yourself. I would hope that you trust him enough to at least give him that much."
"If that's what you think then maybe you have a little too much faith in me," Takara replied, her voice quivering as she took another step back from him. "I...don't think I have the strength for that. For him or my mom."
It was such an absurd thing to say, coming from somebody who was obviously more than strong enough to face her parents, and growing frustrated, he said more harshly than he had intended, "Of course you do. Don't be silly. Your parents raised you better than that. It would be an insult to them and to yourself to suggest you're anything other than the confident young woman you've always been."
Takara visibly flinched at his words, acting for all the world as if he had hit her, and as her eyes filled with tears, she said stiffly, "How can you know that? How can you know anything about me?"
Matt studied the young girl's face for a moment, and leaning against the banister, he said shortly, "Because although I might not be your father, I might as well be."
It all comes back to what I was thinking earlier. I see a lot of Tai in her, but in reality she's just like her mom. There's so much love inside of her to give, but she doesn't know what to do with it. With no way to fully express her feelings, the strength of the love inside her heart is tearing her up inside. It's like she's stuck in a trap of her own making, bound by her own insecurities, and the more she refuses to let those feelings out, the more they're going to eat her alive.
It was clear his words must have affected Takara very deeply, and as the tears slowly began to fall down her cheeks, she whispered, "Maybe that's part of the problem."
Matt took another step towards her, and watching her closely, he said, "The weight of expectation is a heavy burden on your shoulders, but the fact that it exists at all proves just how strong and capable you are."
"You wouldn't understand," Takara whispered, shaking her head in denial. "None of you would."
"I'm pretty sure I understand more than you think."
Takara frowned, looking both lost and confused, and reaching out to grab the other banister, she shook her head and said, "But I..."
"Have you learned nothing from your father's experience with your mother and the firewall?"
Do you not see that though reality may be harsh, the strength of your heart will always lead you down the road you were meant to travel? This line of work is always going to be dangerous, but after learning to accept the fact that I can't prevent my son from being a Digidestined, I've realized that sometimes there are risks you have to take. Sometimes, in order to find the path that will lead you to happiness, you first have to travel the path of darkness to get there. And once you've managed to survive that treacherous road, the reward will be worth every ounce of pain you suffered along the way. That was the path I had to follow, and here I am now in this moment, on the opposite side of the spectrum, doing what I can to save someone I love. Because I do love you, and no matter how many children I have myself, you will always be my daughter. My first baby girl, whom I would die for every bit as much as Tai and Sora would.
Takara's eyes widened in shock, his harsh words having had an obvious effect on her, and looking like she had just been slapped in the face, she huddled against the banister and said in a trembling voice, "I don't know what you mean."
"I think you do, and I know it's not just that."
"You can't know that," Takara cried, looking as if she wanted to run from his presence.
Matt refused to look away from the female Digidestined, and stepping back from the stairs, he said quietly, "Have you forgotten already? I was there when your mother found herself trapped in that cave of darkness. I was one of the ones who helped pull her out of it. I knew better than anybody what she was feeling because I went through the same thing myself."
"Mom..." Takara whispered, hugging herself tightly around the shoulders.
"I understood your mother's suffering that day more than any other Digidestined would have been able to understood, and that's why I know there's more to this story than what you've been willing to reveal so far. You might not be ready to talk about it yet, but are you still so certain that I don't know how you're feeling? Are you so sure I can't relate to what you're going through?"
"I..."
"You're so used to people comparing you to your father. Sometimes I can't help but wonder if that has made you forget just how much you're like your mother."
Takara's face fell at his words, and shaking her head, she said in a whisper, "I'm not like Mom. She..."
"She had her moments of suffering too, which is why you have nothing to be ashamed of."
"Why?" Takara asked in a shaky voice, her shoulders trembling as she struggled to keep a hold on her emotions. "Why does it matter to you so much how I'm feeling?"
Matt raised his eyebrows at that, and shaking his head, he said seriously, "Because I don't want you to end up like my son did."
"You're only here because of my parents," Takara said dully, the sparkle fading from her hazel eyes. "I know you're just doing this for them."
It stung a bit that she would even suggest something like that, but despite the accusation, Matt didn't react, nor did he deny the words. Instead, he said coldly, "Of course I'm doing it for them, but that's not the only reason. I'm doing it for you too, because I know this isn't who you are."
"You're doing it for my parents because my dad is your best friend and you're friends with my mom," Takara shot back, her eyes filling with tears again. "You just don't want them to be upset if something happens to their daughter."
At this point Matt had suffered just about enough of her misguided attempts to feel sorry for herself, and refusing to back down, he snapped, "You don't believe that anymore than I do. I'm doing it because I love you, and I would think that's reason enough to want to protect you from yourself!"
There was a moment of stunned silence, and staring at him with wide eyes, Takara suddenly threw her arms around his waist in a tight hug and began to cry quietly into chest. Matt let her cling to him for a moment, his hand resting on the back of her dark head, and letting out a soft sound of despair, she mumbled into his rib cage, "I'm sorry."
Her words were sincere, and holding the young girl close to his heart, Matt said wearily, "If you had to question it, then maybe I don't say it as often as I should."
He felt Takara's arms tighten around him, and lifting her head to kiss his cheek, she whispered, "You don't need to say it. I've always known."
Before Matt could respond, the female Digidestined hastily pulled herself out of his arms, and turning her back on him, she fled down the short hall next to the stairs that led to the dining room, which could also be reached through the kitchen. He didn't attempt to follow her, as he could sense she needed some time alone to absorb all of his words, and standing in that fading pool of sunshine, the weak rays glinting off his golden hair, he took a moment to reflect on their rather emotional conversation.
Though Takara hadn't revealed much to him, he was more determined than ever to talk to Tai, and stepping into the kitchen he found the four remaining women sitting at the table, their hands wrapped around mugs of tea and coffee.
His wife was the first to look up, and sensing his mood, she paused before saying rather cautiously, "Are we heading out now then?"
"In a moment."
Something about his tone definitely caught her attention, and looking concerned, she gazed at him curiously before exchanging a meaningful look with Mina.
She can sense that there's something going on. I shouldn't be surprised. We've been married for so many years now, there isn't much I can hide from her anymore. Unfortunately, I don't have time to explain right now. I'll have to tell her later tonight when we're in bed.
Ignoring the look that passed between the two women, he instead turned his attention to Sora, and moving over to stand by the female Digidestined's chair, he placed a hand on her shoulder and said simply, "Sora, can I ask you a favour?"
"Sure, of course you can," Sora replied, giving him a warm smile. "What is it?"
Matt hesitated only a moment before saying, "Would you mind taking Mimi and Ryoko home for me? With just Kara and Tay, there should be enough room."
Sora frowned, having immediately picked up on the exclusion of her husband's name, and gazing uncertainly at him, she said slowly, "That's no problem at all, but..."
"I'll bring Tai home. We shouldn't be too long, if that's what you're worried about."
Sora quietly shook her head, a shadow growing in her amber eyes, and glancing quickly at Mimi before once again turning her attention towards him, the female Digidestined said softly, "It's about Kara, isn't it."
Matt nodded, and giving her shoulder a gentle squeeze, he said, "I didn't think for a minute you wouldn't notice."
"Kind of hard not to notice," Noriko sighed, making a face. "It's not like Kara to be so...anti-social."
"Tai doesn't seem to be taking it very well," Mina said gently, looking sympathetic. "It's a bit disheartening to see him in such a state."
Sora suddenly stood up from her chair, her face crumbling as the reality of her daughter's pain seemed to hit her all at once, and obviously worried about her husband, she gazed urgently at him and said quietly, "You'll talk to him?"
"I'll try."
Sora looked instantly relieved by his offer to help, and giving him a grateful hug, she said hesitantly, "You know he dotes on Kara, and I just...I don't know if there's anything I can say that will ease his fears. I...I love him so much, and I don't know what to do. And Kara...I...I don't know what I'll do if anything happens to her."
By this time there were tears in her eyes, and returning the hug, Matt said calmly, "I can't make any promises, but I'll talk to him and see what I can do."
"Thank you," Sora whispered in his ear, sniffing as she struggled to regain control of her emotions. "I know I can always count on you."
Matt felt rather flattered by the compliment, as it was a testament to just how far he had come since the day when he had first gone to the Digital World, and speaking against her shoulder, he said seriously, "Tai's going to need your support in the upcoming weeks. I know it's hard, but you need to be strong for him. Once he gets home tonight, I'm sure he'll want to be close to you. Just let him know you're there for him, and try to keep his mind on other things so he doesn't worry too much."
"I'll try," Sora said softly, attempting to smile. "I don't intend to let go tonight, even when he's sleeping."
"Good. Listen, Sora...I know you're just as worried about Kara as Tai is, and if you'll let me make a suggestion, you might want to try talking to her. Even if she refuses to speak to you, don't let her attitude upset you. Just make sure she knows you're there if she needs you. If you can do that, she won't forget it, and that might make all the difference in the world later on."
"I'll definitely do that," Sora replied, nodding to show she understood.
"Don't worry, Matt," Mimi spoke up, giving him a warm smile. "I'm here for Sora if she needs me. I'll make sure she's well taken care of."
Matt nodded, and letting go of Sora, he leaned down to give his wife a quick kiss before saying, "I know you will. And don't worry too much yourself. I know how much you love Kara, but the stress isn't good for you."
"I'll be fine. You just look after Tai," Mimi said softly in his ear, giving his hand a quick squeeze. "I think he probably needs you right now."
"I guess I'd better go round up Kara and Tay then," Sora sighed, rubbing a hand across her weary face as she headed towards the door. "It'll be nice to get home."
Matt followed her out the door, and heading towards the living room, he called out over his shoulder, "I'll wake Ryoko and the digimon and send them out to you."
"Sounds good," Sora called back as she headed up the stairs.
Coming through the door, Matt made his way over to the sofa, and reaching down to give his son's shoulder a gentle shake, he said, "I'm sorry to wake you, but it's time to go home."
Ryoko's sapphire eyes slowly opened, and letting out a soft sound, the golden-haired Digidestined said groggily, "Home?"
Matt couldn't help smiling at his son's confused response, and helping the boy into a sitting position, he said, "I'm sorry about waking you, but it's getting late. You should probably be in your own bed right now."
"It's okay," Ryoko replied, rubbing at his eyes. "Are we going right now?"
"Your Aunt Sora is going to drop you, your mom, and our digimon off at home for me. I shouldn't be too much longer, but I'm going to need the car for a little bit."
All of a sudden Ryoko looked surprisingly alert, and studying him closely, the golden-haired Digidestined said, "I'll see you at home then?"
Matt nodded, and reaching out to ruffle his son's golden hair, he said gently, "You will, although I hope you'll be asleep and resting by then. I'll come in and check on you, just to make sure."
"Promise?" Ryoko asked, smiling softly at him.
"Of course."
Matt didn't miss the way Ryoko's eyes strayed in Tai's direction before focusing on him again, and giving his son a quick hug, he said quietly, "You better get going."
"I guess."
He was careful to mind his son's bruises, and letting his hand rest on top of the boy's golden hair, he said quietly, "I'm so very proud of you."
"Love you," Ryoko mumbled into his shoulder, sounding quite sleepy.
"Love you, too," he murmured back, his heart swelling with affection for the injured boy in his arms.
Ryoko's arms went around his waist to return the hug, and speaking quietly in his ear, the golden-haired Digidestined said softly, "Good luck."
Before Matt could respond, Ryoko slipped out of his grasp, and quickly going over to the digimon, the boy began to wake the six digital partners that Sora needed to take home in her car. Luckily none of them asked any questions, including Gabumon and Agumon, both of whom looked curious as to why their partners weren't coming with, and as the golden-haired Digidestined reached the door, Iramon and Fluttermon in his arms and the other four digimon trailing behind him, he almost collided with Dai, who was just coming in.
"You're leaving then?" the goggle-headed leader asked, looking disappointed.
"We'll talk tomorrow," Ryoko replied, looking a little embarrassed now that he had had the chance to absorb the goggle-headed leader's much more friendly behaviour towards him.
Dai still look disappointed, and giving the golden-haired Digidestined a searching look, he said, "Alright, but you promised. Don't forget. And Matty too. You could use some time with Matty. We both could."
"I think I would like that," Ryoko replied, smiling softly at the goggle-headed leader.
It was such a different reaction from his past behaviour that Dai blinked in surprise, making it obvious he was still getting used to the new Ryoko, and grinning, he quickly put his arm around his blond friend, who looked embarrassed but didn't pull away.
Without letting go, the two boys left the room together, their heads bent close together as they conversed in low tones, and there was some commotion in the foyer as Sora and Mimi got ready to leave with their children, having finally located the elusive Takara.
Matt heard Ami come racing down the stairs to say goodbye to his son, and once Mimi, Sora, and the three kids were gone, he heard Dai and Ami head back upstairs, the murmur of their voices as they conversed quietly disappearing as they reached the second floor.
Now that it was silent again, Matt was able to focus more closely on his best fiend, and taking a moment to study the former leader's tired face, his eyebrows narrowed into a deep frown.
The whole time he had been talking to Ryoko, Tai had completely ignored both him and his son, the former leader's mind clearly somewhere else, and even more unnerving was the fact that Tai also hadn't reacted to all the noise in the front foyer either. It was like he had completely detached himself from the rest of the world, and he was heading down a dark path that was leading them all to certain disaster.
Time to snap him out of it before he does something stupid.
Somehow, Matt was able to catch Izzy's eyes, and seeing the look on his face, the computer expert hastily left his seat and scurried back over to sit in the armchair he had vacated a while ago.
With stubborn determination, Matt quickly took over the now empty seat, and lightly touching Tai's shoulder, he said nonchalantly, "It's late, you know."
For a moment, Tai looked as if he hadn't heard, and then blinking, the former leader turned his head to glance at him and said in confusion, "Huh?"
"It's almost dark outside. We should probably get going."
"Oh," Tai replied, shaking his head as if to clear it. "I guess. Uh...do you know where Sora is?"
"She already left with your kids and the digimon. I had her take Mimi and Ryoko home, as well."
Now Tai looked even more confused, and sitting up straight, he said slowly, "How am I getting home then?"
Matt couldn't help rolling his eyes at the former leader's malfunctioning brain, and giving his old friend's arm a quick tug, he said dryly, "Come on, I'll give you a ride."
Tai nodded, and climbing wearily to his feet, the former leader stretched his limbs and glanced distractedly at the window, his eyes drifting towards the television stand where only Tentomon, Candlemon, DemiVeemon, Penguinmon, DemiEmbermon, and the dog remained.
Keeping his hold on the former leader's arm, Matt said gently, "I told you, remember? Gabumon and Agumon left with Sora's group."
"Right," Tai murmured, shaking his head.
Matt could sense Izzy watching them closely, and glancing over his laptop, the computer expert said quickly, "I'll catch up with you guys later."
"Don't stay up too late," Matt teased, pulling on Tai's arm and directing the former leader towards the door.
Tai seemed content to let somebody else drag him around, and after saying a quick goodbye to Mina and Noriko, Matt quickly directed the former leader towards the front door as his old friend didn't seem to know quite where he was going. It made him feel a bit uneasy to realize just how much Tai didn't really seem to care how he got home, and dropping his hand from the former leader's shoulder, he stretched his arms above his head to ease the tension in the muscles across his back.
As they stood next to each other on the front step, Matt glanced at the sky, and what he saw made him pause to appreciate the view for a moment.
In the distance, the earth's atmosphere was a mix of orange, red, and yellow, and on the horizon he could see the sun just barely peeking out above the skyline. Closer to the house, the sky had turned a deep shade of purple, and a few stairs could be seen twinkling in the heavens. There were only a few clouds drifting lazily over the rooftops, but their presence only made the sunset look even more impressive. On any other day, Matt could have stood there forever just gazing at the sky, but on this particular day, he had something more important to keep his eyes on.
Next to him, Tai was also looking at the sky, and shaking his head, the former leader murmured, "It's like looking at a fire that's dying in the distance."
Somehow Matt had a feeling that wasn't supposed to be a pleasant thought, and fishing for his keys, he didn't respond to his old friend's cryptic words.
Instead, he headed down the front walk towards the curb, and after a moment Tai followed him, the sound of the former leader's weary steps echoing off the sidewalk.
At the moment, the street was completely deserted, and climbing into the driver's seat of the black Honda that was waiting for him at the curb, he stared calmly out the front windshield at the sunset as Tai got in beside him.
The former leader put his seat belt on without comment, and resting his head against the back of the headrest, Tai closed his eyes and proceeded to sit there in silence, a soft sigh escaping his lips.
Unfazed by this, Matt started the vehicle without comment, and pulling away from the curb he drove towards the next intersection, his eyes on the road as he signaled to make a right.
Though the silence between them was thick and heavy, it wasn't uncomfortable or full of tension, and glancing at the former leader out of the corners of his eyes, Matt frowned at the scene that greeted him.
Tai still hadn't moved from his previous position, and the dim light of the sunset created deep shadows under the former leader's dark eyes. It made his face look hollow and sickly, and the grooves on his forehead and around his eyes stood out prominently as the sun tinted his face with a red wash of colour. His mouth was also tight, showing obvious signs of stress, and there was tension in his strong shoulders that had not been there before their last trip to the Digital World. The grey hair at his temples glowed orange in the light of the dying sun, and if it hadn't been for the slight rise and fall of his broad chest, Matt might have questioned whether or not the man was even still alive.
Tai was sitting as still as a statue, one arm in his lap and the other one resting on the door next to the window, and as the pattern of light and shadows shifted on his tired face and body the couple times Matt had to turn a corner to drive in a different direction, the change in light would enhance the haunted and haggard expression on his face.
It wasn't far from the Motomiya house to the Kamiya residence, and by the time he pulled into the driveway, Tai still hadn't said a word, his mind lost in some nightmare where Matt was currently unable to reach him.
Putting the vehicle in park, he left the engine running, and sitting back in his seat, he stared out at the dying rays of the sun as it continued to sink further towards the horizon.
Like a fire dying in the distance. Or maybe like a spark of courage that's slowly being swallowed up by the darkness...
Hands on the steering wheel, Matt proceeded to stare straight ahead out the windshield, and speaking quietly, he said in a firm voice, "I think she wants to tell you, but she doesn't know how. Or maybe she doesn't even really know entirely what's wrong herself."
That's the impression I got. So many conflicting emotions, she doesn't know what to believe anymore.
Tai's dark eyes slowly opened, and staring out the windshield as well, the former leader said dully, "She's never acted like this before. Never. Not once. Not ever in her life."
The lack of confidence in Tai's voice shattered the silence between them, and turning to look at the former leader, Matt was careful to keep his voice neutral. "As much as we don't want to accept it, there will be times when our children will suffer. It's a natural part of growing up. You and I experienced that for ourselves when we were kids, and truthfully that hasn't changed now that we're older. The way you're suffering now is proof enough of that. It's just the way life works, even if we wish it were otherwise."
"I know that," Tai replied, turning his face away. "Even though she's always been so strong, I've known since the beginning that she was never immune to all the insecurities most people have to deal with. That's what makes her human just as much as the rest of us. I just never thought I would feel so powerless to do anything about it when it finally happened."
Matt could understand where his old friend was coming from, since he too had felt powerless to help Ryoko when the golden-haired Digidestined was suffering. There he had sat upon the ice, tied up and unable to do anything for his son, and yet despite his position, somehow Ryoko seemed to have picked up on the love and support he had been trying so desperately to convey to his son.
And that helplessness had taught him something very important.
Can he not see it for himself?
It was an interesting thought, and studying Tai's profile, he said quietly, "We might not be able to prevent our children from suffering, but that doesn't mean we're powerless. As long as they know how much we love and support them they'll always remain close to us."
"Which is exactly why I don't understand what's going on," Tai replied, sounding completely defeated. "She knows how much I love her. I've never kept that a secret, and yet...she won't tell me anything. She hasn't said a word this whole time. Not once."
"That doesn't mean she doesn't want to. Just keep doing what you're doing, and eventually you'll get through to her. As long as she knows you'll be there when she needs you, she'll always be within reach. And when that moment does finally arrive, she won't hesitate to come to you. Most of the time, just knowing someone cares is enough to get us through the darkness. That was something I thought I didn't have, which was why I suffered so much, but it doesn't have to be that way for Kara. We're not going to let it come to that."
Tai finally turned to look at him, and laughing softly, the former leader said wearily, "I'm scared, you know. Afraid. Does that seem strange to you?"
Matt thought of Tai's reaction to the firewall, and shaking his head, he said quietly, "I'd be more concerned if you weren't afraid."
"I feel...like I've failed her somehow," Tai said slowly, his words barely above a whisper. "Is that why she won't tell me anything? Is it because I've somehow failed as a father?"
Matt continued to gaze directly into the former leader's troubled eyes, and shaking his head, he said with conviction, "You haven't failed anybody. You never have, Tai. That much I can say for certain."
Tai glanced at him in the fading light of the sun, and Matt could see the ghost of a smile on the former leader's tanned face. Without a word, the dark-haired man reached over to give his shoulder a grateful squeeze, and eyes growing dim again, the former leader said, "Ever since she was little, she's never had an issue talking to me before. At least, not like this. I mean, I'm not totally naive and stupid. I know there are things she probably feels more comfortable talking to Sora about, like when it comes to boys and stuff like that, but...this kind of thing? It isn't like her at all not to tell me."
"No, it's not."
"I don't know what to do," Tai said quietly, looking more lost than Matt had ever seen him look before. "I've just never felt like this before. And Sora...I know she's worried about Kara, too. I can see it in her eyes when she looks at our daughter. It kills me to see her worrying like this."
Matt nodded, and without looking away from his best friend, he said, "I think it kills her just as much to see you worrying."
Tai managed a faint smile at that, and nodding his head, the former said, "I don't doubt that for a minute."
"I know better than anyone just how much you love your daughter, but even so, it's not like you to doubt yourself so easily."
"It's just...they're counting on me, you know? Sora and Tay. If I fail to help Kara, then I fail them too. And I...I don't think that's something I could handle. What am I going to do if I can't protect my family?"
They sat there for a moment in silence, and gazing at the Kamiya residence, Matt could see a light on in the window of the upstairs bedroom on the left. As he watched a slim shadow pass by the curtain, he could tell instantly who the graceful profile belonged to.
The left bedroom was Takara's bedroom, and glancing once more at his best friend, Matt could see that Tai was also gazing at the upstairs window, his face a mask of conflicting emotions.
"What will I do if she follows the same path that both Sora and I took?" Tai asked after a while, finally turning to look a him again.
Matt gazed calmly back at his best friend, and shrugging his shoulders, he said simply, "If she does, you should be proud of her. If I recall, both you and Sora were able to overcome your challenges in the Digital World, and that allowed both of you to become stronger people. If Takara follows the same path, her road will eventually lead to success, but in the meantime we're all going to make sure we're there for her if she needs us."
"Matt..."
"If my son can overcome the darkness in his heart, then there's no reason why Kara won't be able to do the same."
"Well, I'm not surprised Ryoko was able to get past his fears," Tai replied, smiling slightly. "He is your son after all, and I have every bit as much faith in him as I did, and still do, in you."
Matt nodded, and turning to gaze at his hands, which were still resting on the steering wheel, he said quietly, "Thanks for looking after him for me, by the way. I appreciate it."
"You would have done the same for me," Tai replied, shrugging in response.
Matt accepted the praise without comment, and nodding towards the house, he said, "Sora's probably wondering where we are right now, and you look like you could use some rest. I'll talk to you tomorrow."
"Sounds like a plan," Tai agreed, unbuckling his seat belt and opening the car door. "Hopefully Gennai will get back to us pretty quickly. Can't say I'm a fan of waiting when I know how much the Digital World needs us."
As Tai stepped out onto the driveway, Matt pulled off his own seat belt as well, and climbing out of the car, he came over to the former leader's side of the vehicle and paused, taking a moment to gather his thoughts. Once he was sure of his words, he gave his best friend a searching look and said quietly, "Do you remember the promise I made to you when Kara was born?"
Tai froze, his expression hard to read in the darkness, and without looking at him, the former leader said softly, "I remember."
"I haven't forgotten that promise. She's every bit as much my daughter and Mimi's daughter as she is yours and Sora's. No matter how bad she gets, I'm not going to let the darkness take her from us. You're not alone, Tai. Not even close."
The words were more fierce than he had intended, and in the fading light of the sun, he could tell Tai was struggling to maintain a hold on the raging river of emotions that was currently rushing through his body. After a moment of silence, the former leader took a step towards him, and looking as if he wanted to say more, he instead looked away and said simply, "I know that."
Matt shook his head, not satisfied with that response, and refusing to look away himself, he said boldly, "Look at what you did as a child in the Digital World. Look at what you're doing right now with your job. All your life you've been saving lives, and I know there's no way you're going to let Kara down. You're not going to lose her. You won't let that happen. I know that better than anybody because...one of those lives you saved was mine."
"Matt..."
The name came out as barely more than a whisper, and closing the distance between them, Matt put his arms around the former leader and hug him tightly. He knew Tai wasn't going to respond, couldn't respond, and that was okay. He didn't need a response, nor had he expected one. Instead, he continued to hold his old friend in a tight embrace, and speaking close to the former leader's ear, he said fiercely, "I would die for her every bit as much as I would for my own son. I want you to trust me on this, but more importantly I want you to trust Dai. Do you think you can do that for me?"
Tai sagged against him for a moment, and nodding, the former leader said slowly, "Trust...Dai."
Matt nodded, and lowering his voice, he said, "You're not stupid, Tai. I know you've seen it for yourself. Dai might not know it yet, but he cares very deeply about your daughter. There's no way he'll let anything bad happen to her, and I can guarantee he'll move heaven and earth if he has to to keep her safe. He's always going to be there for her even when you and I can't be there anymore. I know he'll help her find her way again. You just have to trust him. He helped my son, and he'll help your daughter, too."
"He's...so much like Davis," Tai murmured, laughing softly. "How can I not trust him?"
"Exactly, and you trust me, right?"
"Of course I do," Tai said fiercely, the words reverberating against his shoulder as they were uttered without any hesitation. "Like you even need to ask me that."
"Then let that be your strength to get you through this. I know you believe in Kara. She might not know it herself yet, but the strength of her love and the force of her courage are a powerful combination. That kind of potential leads to great wisdom. With Dai's help, she'll find that out herself, and once she does, the darkness won't be able to touch her anymore. Until then, she needs our support, and if we can give her that, Dai will take care of the rest, just like he did for Ryoko."
Tai nodded, and returning the hug, the former leader said quietly, "Thank you. I needed that. But...I guess you already knew I did. That's why you're here, isn't it."
Matt nodded, and gazing over the former leader's shoulder to watch the oncoming darkness, he said firmly, "I don't need to be connected to you through Omnimon to know when something's wrong, but I have to admit, it does help a bit."
Tai's soft laughter got lost on the breeze, and pulling back slightly, the former leader shook his head and said, "I could never really hide anything from you, could I. You were always better at that than me."
Matt raised his eyebrows, and smiling slightly, he said dryly, "I wouldn't say that. I haven't been able to hide anything from you for years. All because you wouldn't take no for an answer."
"And aren't you glad now that wouldn't?" Tai shot back, smiling fondly at him. "I make a pretty good best friend, if I do say so myself."
Matt nodded, and studying the former leader closely, he said simply, "I can't deny that. You were pretty convincing."
"You're not so bad yourself," Tai teased, though he still looked tired. "I'm glad, though. I'm glad that after all this time, I still feel close to you. I'm glad that you can still figure me out, even if I can't figure myself out. Plus, it works both ways. There's not much you can get past me either."
Matt ignored the jibe, and giving the former leader an affectionate pat on the back, he said, "Go get some rest. You look exhausted."
"Give Ryoko a hug from me," Tai added, growing serious again. "And tell him thank you."
Matt frowned, and feeling confused, he said, "For what?"
At this point Tai was already heading up the walkway, and pausing, the former looked back at him and said, "For looking out for my daughter. If anyone can make Dai see the truth about Kara, it'll be him. And just so you know, I meant what I said before. I trust you more than anyone with my daughter. I know you'll keep her safe."
As the sun finally sank below the horizon, Tai's profile disappeared into the darkness, and as Matt headed back around the car to reach the driver's side, he paused for a moment to look up at the stairs.
Somewhere out there the remaining Spirit Chips were waiting for them, and whether or not the next one belonged to Kara or to one of his nephews, he had a feeling something lurked in the darkness, waiting for the perfect chance to strike.
Like a shadow lurking just out of sight.
But despite the shadow that seemed to hang over their heads, every single Digidestind was like a tiny pinprick of light in a vast sea of darkness, and though there were still many challenges ahead, Matt knew that each one of those dim lights would eventually find their moment to shine.