Episode 9:Search And Rescue, Part 1
Victor sat in his office, typing away at his computer. The room was dim, with the computer's screen being the only source of bright light. Papers of all varieties were stacked on the man's desk. On his left was a large thermos, already half drained of the coffee within. His mug sat beside it, its white insides stained by long years of use.
Laying at the man's feet was Dobermon. The dog digimon slept quietly, the tapping of computer keys providing a familiar backdrop.
Victor sighed, rubbing at his eyes. He closed the security report in front of him, and reached for his thermos, pouring a fresh cup of coffee. The liquid was still warm as he took his sip, providing a momentary comfort.
The man set the mug aside, and reached over to grab a small flash drive. He slotted it into the computer, and opened the folder inside, marked 'personal files'. Inside, were family photos, copies of Molly's birth certificate, and other similar files. At the bottom was another folder that required a special code to access.
With a few keystrokes, Victor entered the password, knowing it by heart. Inside of the folder were dozens of files. Victor opened up several at once. A police report, a photo of the smoking remains of a vehicle, and a news article.
The headline of the article read 'DDA Officer Killed In Tragic Accident'. Two pictures were shown below it. One was a shot of the flaming wreckage of the vehicle. The other was a photo of the officer in question.
Robert Mhan.
Suddenly, Dobermon's eyes snapped open, and he raised his head. Moments later, there was a knock at Victor's door. The man quickly closed the folder, and reopened the security reports.
"Come in." he said, turning about in his chair.
An aide soon slipped inside offering a quick salute of greeting.
"Sorry to disturb you, but your presences are required at the meeting."
Dobermon stood straight. "We'll be there momentarily."
The digimon's mouth did not move when he spoke. His voice was deep an echoing, as if speaking directly into one's mind.
The aide gave a nod of recognition, and closed the door behind him.
Victor adjusted his glasses, and downed the rest of his coffee. The man then grabbed a folder of files from nearby, and headed toward the door. Doberman followed right behind him, and the pair headed out into the hall.
Victor was momentarily blinded by the bright fluorescent lights that lit the office. After his eyes adjusted, he continued onward.
"You really shouldn't keep working in the dark like that." Dobermon commented. "If youe keep doing that, and staring at that computer screen as long as you do, you're going to go blind."
Victor grunted in acknowledgment.
His partner didn't press him further, and continued to walk at Victor's side. As the pair strolled the halls of the DDA offices, everyone around them gave them a wide berth. They almost always received a sharp salute in greeting as well. Vicor, and Dobermon responded in kind with a slight nod.
The pair soon arrived in an elevator, hopping inside. After riding up two floors, the pair stepped out, and down the rightmost hall. A pair of guards stood at the first door on their left, a human agent, and his Strikedramon partner.
Victor quickly flashed his badge, and the two guards ushered them into the room. Inside, was a board room, with a long table. Arranged at each of the seats were the heads of the DDA's various divisions in the city. As well as a handful of select agents.
Laura Miller was among these agents. The woman looked over the dossier in front of her. Her partner, Buraimon sat at her side stoically.
Victor took his assigned seat near the middle of the table. A special seat for Dobermon was prepared beside him. Which the dog digimon quickly hopped into.
Across the table from the pair, a Terriermon offered them a wave. The digimon's partner was a woman a few years younger than Victor. Freckles dotted her face, and her long red hair was tied into a ponytail. Victor, and Dobermon knew them well. The two were the heads of the public relations division.
"Nice of you two to join us." the woman smiled.
"O'hare. Terriermon." Arnold greeted professionally.
Dobermon simply offered the pair a nod.
"Still as stiff as ever I see." another commented.
Victor, and Dobermon turned to a man on their right. He was middle aged with a bushy mustache, and well coiffed hair. His partner, a silver Renamon, sipped a cup of tea at his side.
The man was Albert Green. He, and his partner digimon were the head of the homicide division.
Victor ignored the man's comment, and looked to the gathered.
"Are we going to start this meeting? Or continue exchanging pleasantries?"
"No need to make a fuss." O'hare laughed. "We're still waiting for the guest of honor to arrive."
Victor sighed, and leaned back in his seat, waiting patiently.
Moments later, Arnold, and Starmon entered the room. The pair were slightly winded from their rush to reach the meeting room in time.
"Sorry we're late. We had a bit of a delay." Arnold said.
"We're aware. No need to apologize." Albert replied.
Starmon looked about the room. "Are the directors not here yet?"
"We are now."
Arnold, and Starmon turned, and quickly saluted. Everyone else in the room stood from their seats, and followed suit.
Standing in the doorway, was an older black woman. Her hair was short, and shock white. Defined age lines sat below her eyes, and a short scar stretched across her left cheek.
Everyone in the room knew her well. One of the DDA's most decorated officers. Selene Bishop, co director of the DDA's NA branch.
At her side stood a digimon with the appearance of a young man. His hair was white and spiked. Two goat like horns swept back from the sides of his head, and a third grew from the top of his forehead. His chest was bare, save a black vest, and red markings. A red scarf was wrapped around his neck, and a pair of white gloves covered his hands. Just like a satyr, his legs were those of a goat, with cloven hooves to match.
"Miss Bishop!" Starmon exclaimed, straightening his salute.
The digimon then turned to her partner, and bowed his head. "Lord Aegiomon."
The other partner digimon all bowed their heads as well.
"Please, there is no need to call me lord." Aegiomon said, raising a hand. "I gave up that title long ago."
"Of course." Starmon replied, giving another bow.
"We apologize for being late." Bishop announced, looking to the gathered. "After hearing news of Starmon, and Mr. Strauss's escapade on the way here, we thought it wouldn't hurt to postpone things."
Miss Bishop, and Aegiomon moved to the head of the meeting table, taking their seats. Everyone else followed suit, and turned to the pair, waiting for them to begin.
"Now that everyone is here, we can get started." Aegiomon announced.
"As your all aware, this meeting is to discuss the current incidents, involving the digital gates." Selene began.
She gestured a hand to Arnold, and Starmon. "Starmon. Mr. Strauss. If you would."
"Of course m'am." Arnold replied, standing from his seat.
Starmon did the same, and the two moved toward the end of the table opposite Selene, and Aegiomon. Arnold pressed a button on the wall, dimming the lights. With the press of another, a holographic display screen was projected onto the wall.
Arnold moved toward the holoscreen, activating it with a touch. The screen then began to display some photos from the first digital gate incident. Mostly collateral damage caused by the attack of the Tyrannomon, and the appearance of Ignadramon.
"A little over a month ago. The first rift opened up in the city." Arnold began. "Three Tyrannomon, and an unidentified digimon appeared, causing considerable damage to the surrounding area."
"The Tyrannomon did meet some resistance." Starmon interjected.
He brought up the image of the gun shrapnel found at the scene, and the Fox enterprises vehicle.
"A private security force owned by Fox enterprises was transporting some precious cargo." the digimon continued. "They tried to engage with the Tyrannomon, and were all killed during the encounter."
Selene looked over the report in front of her. "The statement from Ms. Fox says that the cargo was some sort of experimental fuel cell?"
"Yes ma'am." Arnold answered. "Though if I may be frank, I think she's hiding what it really was."
"Thats a bold claim, Mr. Stauss." Selene replied, templing her fingers.
"I'm aware of that ma'am." Arnold nodded. "I could very well just be paranoid. But I think it's still very plausible."
Selene nodded back, and motioned for the pair to continue.
Starmon changed the images again. The file photo of Molly, and Liollmon was brought up. Along with a photo of Kai in the hospital.
"The only witnesses on the scene were Molly Mhan, her partner Liollmon, and a mysterious young man."
"Kai." Victor interjected. "That's what Molly, and Elena decided to name him."
"He's a very strange case." Renamon remarked. "No birth certificate. No social security. Nothing."
"He's still staying with you, Victor?" Albert asked.
"Yes." Victor answered plainly. "My wife, and daughter have taken a shine to him."
"That must be a pretty weird living situation.." Terriermon commented.
Victor took in a deep breath. "Yes. It is. Now, can we please get to the task at hand, and stop with questions about my family life?"
Selene nodded to Arnold, and Starmon.
Arnold switched the slide this time. The display showed the broken buildings, and other damage of the shopping center. Another photo showed the Golemon being bound, and taken into custody. Both he, and his partner went over the details of the incident. Laura Miller, and Buraimon interjected with their own comments as well. Being the first to arrive on the scene.
"From what we can tell, this wasn't a random attack." Arnold said. "They had a target. The building that sustained the most damage, was a digimon, and human partner registration center."
"After capturing the Golemon, we questioned him." Starmon added. "He wasn't feeling in a talkative mood, and then suddenly it was like he was talking to somebody else in the room. After that well…"
"He killed himself, by slamming his head against the barrier." Selene finished.
Arnold nodded. "It seemed he was about to go on some sort rant about a 'grand design'.'"
"Whoever he was talking to clearly wanted his mouth shut." Victor commented. "They must have been listening in somehow. Whether it be through some sort of powerful telepathy, or something else…"
"Could they have possibly had someone on the inside?" Albert offered.
"That's a distinct possibility." Selene answered. "However, before we start looking for a mole, I think we need more evidence than a mere hunch."
"And what about the Gotsumon who were with him?" O'hare asked.
"A similar situation." Arnold answered. "They beat each other to death, until the last one was standing. He then rammed himself into the barrier just like Golemon. From what we could tell from the security footage, they also seemed to be under the influence of this mysterious voice."
"We gave special instructions to the officers at the scene earlier today." Starmon interjected. "Making sure that they are locked down, good, and tight. So they can't pull anything like that again."
"The same day as the attack on the shopping center, Fox enterprises sent a report. Apparently, Cassandra Fox, her partner Impmon, along with Molly Mhan, and Liollmon were attacked by a pair of assassins."
Victor's eyes suddenly widened. "What?!"
The rest of the table looked at him with surprise. They went dead silent for several moments. Arnold, and Starmon then shared a look, before turning back to the man.
"You...didn't know, sir?" Starmon asked.
"We sent you the full report." Arnold added.
"I haven't had time to go over all the incident files." Victor replied, barely containing his anger.
"Even so, I thought your daughter would have at least told you." Arnold remarked.
Victor's eyes narrowed, and he leaned back in his seat. "Yes. I would have assumed that too."
There was another lingering silence in the room. Selene chose to break the tension, and cleared her throat.
Arnold, and Starmon took their cue. The two went on to explain that the from report, the two assassins seemed to be targeting Cassandra specifically. They then briefly went over the attack on the Julia concert, and their first hand account of the attack earlier today.
"The Julia concert was a charity event." Selene remarked. "Also supporting human, and digimon partners."
"So, the first attack was against Fox enterprises." Renamon thought aloud. "The third also was targeted against Fox, and heir to the company, Cassandra. The others were direct attacks against organizations directly supporting human, and digimon relations."
"It seems whoever is behind this has a clear motive." Selene said.
"And you have no leads so far?" Aegiomon asked.
Arnold shook his head. "At first we suspected one of Fox enterprise's enemies. But that was pretty much scrapped. Since the only ones in the human world with the capabilities of creating rifts like that are us, and Fox enterprises themselves."
"The human world, yes. But, what about the digital world?" Aegiomon pointed out. "These rifts could very well be being opened from the other side."
"That's true." Starmon said thoughtfully.
Arnold turned to Aegiomon."We'll start looking into it right away."
"I'll do so as well." Aegiomon replied. "If the problem is on the other side, then it falls under my responsibility."
"Well it seems this meeting has reached its conclusion." Selene remarked, standing from her seat. "Mr. Strauss, Starmon, please continue your investigation into this matter. The public at large is beginning to grow restless because of these attacks. I want this case resolved as soon as possible. You have the full support of the DDA behind you."
"Yes, ma'am!" the two exclaimed, saluting.
"Good. Then, meeting adjourned."
Francisco, and Ariomon were parked across the street from the nearby apartment building. Fresh food wrappers were tossed haphazardly in the car. The man held up a pair of binoculars, watching the building closely. From time to time he sipped at the remains of his soda.
He soon spotted Undinemon heading up the stairs to her apartment, and watched her step inside. The man then set his binoculars aside, and slurped up the last of his drink.
"So, now we just steak out their apartment?" Ariomon asked.
"That's right." Francisco answered.
"There's a very fine line between an investigative journalist, and a stalker isn't there?" Ariomon remarked dryly.
"Hey, I am not a stalker." the man huffed.
Ariomon simply rolled her eyes at him. She then looked past the man, eyes narrowing.
"She just came back out."
Francisco quickly snatched up his binoculars again. He watched Undinemon rush out the door in a panicked frenzy
"Somethings wrong." Francisco said.
"What do you think it could be?" Ariomon asked.
"I don't know." Francisco answered, dropping his binoculars. "Let's keep an eye on her, and maybe we'll find out."
Michael squirmed against his bonds, his eyes wide with terror. The suited woman stood over him, a Hommunclumon at her side. Her face was stoney, and betrayed no emotion, sunglasses reflecting the dim light of the room.
"I'm going to ask you one more time." she began. "What do you know about the young man, called Kai?"
"I told you everything I know!" Michael cried in terror. "I've only met him twice!"
The woman leaned down, inches away from his face. Michael winced, trying to recoil, squirming in his bonds.
"Leave him be for now." a voice called from behind.
The suited woman turned, to see her male counterpart standing in the doorway. He approached, glancing down at Michael. The young man's eyes shifted between the pair fearfully, dreading what might come next.
The man looked back to his companion. "I don't think we're going to get anymore out of him. We should try a different approach."
"I'm all ears." the woman said.
"I think we should use him as bait." he suggested. "Gilgamesh seemed to want to protect him, and his partner. We can use that."
The woman pondered for several moments before nodding.
"Agreed. We'll have to prepare for him."
The man nodded back, and the pair headed toward the door. As they were about to leave, the woman turned about, pointing to the Homunculumon.
"Keep an eye on him. Make sure he doesn't escape."
Then, with a loud creak, the iron door shut behind them.
Michael found himself letting out a small sigh of relief. His mind was able to focus, and dozens of questions racked his mind. First, and foremost was the name Gilgamesh. Was that Kai's real name? And how were these people connected?
But, he couldn't think about that now, he had to think of some way to escape. Struggling against his bonds had done him no good. They were too secure. He needed another way out.
He scanned his surroundings, searching for anything that might help. Soon, a silver glint caught his eye. He focused in on it. The shines source was a lone box cutter, sitting on one of the shipping boxes nearby.
That was it!
If he could somehow shimmy over to the crate, and grab the box cutter, he could free himself. Then he could sneak out of the room, and-
His thoughts were cut short, as he looked back to the door. The Homunculumon stood in front of the entrance. His singular gem like eye stared at the man, unblinking.
Michael's shoulders suddenly sagged, and he slumped in his chair.
"Who am I kidding?" he sighed. "I couldn't get out of here even if he wasn't there."
So, he hung his head, and waited until his fate was decided. Fear, and terror gripped him, making him shudder almost uncontrollably. It took every ounce of self control for him not to break down into tears.
"Undinemon...help me." he whimpered.
Molly, Liollmon, Connie, Eddy and Kai all stood before the grand hotel Chevalier. Connie shuffled back and forth anxiously, while her companions watched. She had been filled with nervous energy ever since they had arrived for their meeting with Julia.
A few moments later, a sleek black limo pulled up to the sidewalk. Cassandra soon stepped out along with Impmon. Molly waved to the pair, and motioned them over. Connie looked over as they approached, and totally froze in her tracks. The girl then grabbed Molly by the shoulder, and whispered harshly in her ear.
"Why didn't you tell me Cassandra was gonna be here?!"
"Sorry, I thought I did." Molly answered.
"I'm already nervous enough as it is! I am going to have to spend the next few hours with Cassandra, and Julia!"
Connie clutched a hand to her chest. "I think I might have a heart attack."
"Just chill. Everything's gonna be fine, okay?" Molly assured, placing a hand on her shoulder.
"We apologize for being late." Cassandra said, as she finally neared. "Impmon overslept. Again."
Impmon rolled his eyes. "No need to get your undies in a twist."
Cassandra sighed, and turned to Molly, with an apologetic look. She then glanced over at Connie, quirking a brow curiously. The other girl stared up at Cassandra like a deer in headlights. Her body frozen.
"I'm...Cassandra." the girl greeted tentatively. "You must be one of Molly's friends."
Connie babbled a stream of nonsense in response, unable to form proper words. Cassandra blinked in bewilderment, and turned to Molly questioningly.
Molly laughed nervously. "That's Connie. Don't worry about her. She's just really nervous when meeting new people. Especially famous ones."
Cassandra nodded in understanding. "I see."
Molly gestured to her other two companions. "This is Eddy, and Kai."
"Yo." Eddy greeted with a small wave.
Kai put on his usual smile, and moved to shake Cassandra's hand. As the two locked eyes, Kai felt a sudden sharp pain in the back of his skull. The image of a woman with crisp blonde hair, and sharp blue eyes flashed through his mind. He clutched the side of his head, wincing as the pain subsided.
"Are you alright?" Cassandra asked.
"Y-yeah. Just...had a quick headache is all." Kai answered.
Molly frowned at Kai in worry. She then shared a look with Liollmon, the two both feeling a sudden flash of anxiety. Though both felt it for different reasons.
"So, should we head on in?" Eddy asked, motioning toward the door.
The others gave nods of varying enthusiasm. Connie needed a bit of coaxing to finally snap her out of her nervous stupor. But, once she was back to reality, she followed after her other companions.
Everyone looked around the grand hotel lobby with varying levels of awe. Cassandra, and Impmon were used to such places so their reaction was much more subdued. The rest on the other hand, were completely flabbergasted by the room's opulence. Molly was quick to pull out one of her cameras, snapping several photos.
The group was soon approached by a well dressed woman. She was wearing a tag, with Julia's trademark rose symbol. She greeted them, and motioned them toward one of the elevators. As they rode up, the woman quickly went over some ground rules regarding their visit. The big do's, don'ts, and other miscellaneous things.
With a small ding, the elevator arrived at its destination. The three stepped out into a lavish penthouse suite. Golds, whites, pinks, and deep reds decorated the space. A large window sat near the far end of the room. It opened up to a balcony, overlooking the city below. Several dozen potted plants were lined up along the windowsill, gathering precious light.
Bellamon was over by said window, with a small watering can in hand. The digimon drizzled the row of plants gingerly, as she hummed a happy tune.
Julia sat in front of a coffee table in the center of the room. She lounged on the couch nearby, sipping at her tea. She looked up from her phone as the group entered, and stood with a smile.
"Hey! Glad you could make it!" Julia exclaimed.
"Are you kidding? Of course we made it. I wouldn't miss this for the world." Molly said.
Julia smiled, and looked over her other companions. Her eyes widened a bit as she spotted Cassandra. She approached, scrutinizing her for a moment. After confirming her suspicions, Julia took a step back, looking totally bewildered.
"You're Cassandra Fox!" Julia exclaimed.
"Y-yes. Yes I am." Cassandra replied, momentarily put off guard.
Julia turned to Molly. "You know Cassandra Fox?!"
Molly chuckled at her reaction, and simply nodded.
Julia let out a bark of surprise "Well I'll be damned. Sorry, if I overreacted a bit."
"No, it's quite alright.' Cassandra said. "It was just a bit surprising. We had actually met once before, but it was only in passing."
"Oh yeah! That's right!" Julia exclaimed, snapping her fingers. "That charity dinner thing! I totally forgot!"
Julia suddenly glanced over. Connie stood to her right, shuddering with nervous energy. She could hear the girl mumbling just under her breath. Repeating the same phrase over, and over again.
"ohmygoditsactuallyJuliaIcan'tbeleiveit."
"Is she okay?" Julia asked.
"I asked the same thing." Cassandra added.
"That's Connie, and yeah she's fine." Molly answered. "She's just starstruck right now."
"I've seen plenty of that." Julia said with a nod.
Introductions were soon made all around. Eddy was anxious to greet the pop idol as well. But nowhere near the level of Connie. Kai of course introduced himself with his usual bright enthusiasm.
Bellamon approached moments later, setting down her watering can. Impmon quirked a brow at the other digimon, eyeing her up.
"This is my partner, Bellamon." Julia said, gesturing to the rookie.
"It's a pleasure to meet all of you." Bellamon greeted, slightly bowing her head.
Impmon suddenly made his way through the group, approaching Bellamon. He grabbed her hand, and leaned down to give it a quick kiss.
"The pleasure is all mine, toots." he said wiggling his eyebrows.
Before Bellamon could offer any kind of reply, Impmon noticed his hand had touched one of her thorns. The sharp point pierced his glove, pricking his finger. He suddenly felt Bellamon's poison rush through his body, and fell to the ground, momentarily paralyzed.
Bellamon leaned over his fallen form. "You shouldn't touch me without a proper warning first. Otherwise, I can't retract my thorns."
"Thangs fa da borning." Impmon managed to slur out, his face numb.
"He'll be fine." Julia assured. "It was just a small dose."
"That's what you get for trying to play Casanova." Cassandra said, without a hint of sympathy.
Cassandra sighed, and lifted Impmon into her arms. She then dropped him down onto the couch where he lay twitching.
"Why don't you all come sit down." Julia suggested, gesturing to the pair of couches. The rest of the group nodded, and took their seats. Most everyone sat on the couch opposite Julia and Bellamon. The only ones brave enough not to, were Cassandra, Molly, and their partners.
"You guys hungry, or thirsty?" Julia asked. "You can order whatever you want from room service. My treat."
"We don't want to be too much trouble." Molly replied.
"It's not any trouble at all!" Julia smiled. "And hey, don't be afraid to ask for an autograph either!"
Eddy swallowed. "I-in that case could you...sign my shirt?"
"No problem" Julia exclaimed, whipping out a marker.
The woman quickly signed off her signature onto the back of Eddy's shirt. Then with a flourish, drew a simple rose, and heart.
"C-can I get one too?" Connie asked, holding out a notepad.
Julia gladly signed it as well, doing the same flourish at the end. Molly watched with a smile, and reached into her bag. She pulled out one of her favorite cameras and checked the settings.
Julia looked over at the device her eyes widening.
"Wow! That's one of those old analog cameras!" the woman exclaimed. "I've never seen one up close."
"Oh! Yeah, I kinda collect them as a hobby." Molly replied, her cheeks flushing.
"Molly is a photographer." Kai interjected. "She even has cameras from over eighty years ago."
"Really?" Julia asked, sitting back down. "Thats cool."
Molly rubbed the back of her neck. "It's not that cool, and I wouldn't call myself a photographer."
Kai cocked his head. "But half of your room is decorated with all the photos you've taken. If that doesn't make you a photographer I don't know what does."
"I have to agree with Kai." Cassandra added. "Even in the short time that I've known you, your passion for photography is evident."
Liollmon nodded sagely nearby.
"I guess so…" Molly said, trailing off. "Anyway, I was hoping I could get a shot of you, and Bellamon."
Bellamon suddenly jumped in her seat. "M-me?! Why me?"
Molly quirked a brow at the reaction.
Julia turned to Molly. "Bellamon is a little camera shy."
Bellamon twiddled her vine like fingers, and nodded. Molly thought it odd that the partner of a mega star like Julia was camera shy. But, she decided to not to comment on it, and had Julia pose for a couple of shots.
After taking her seat again, Julia looked to the gathered. "You guys sure I can't get you anything to eat or drink?" .
"Well I suppose I could go for a spot of tea." Cassandra remarked.
"T-that does sound nice." Connie commented.
Several of the others nodded in agreement.
Bellamon hopped up from the couch. "Now that, I can handle. I know how to brew a mean cup."
As Bellamom moved to the kitchenette nearby, Connie leaned over to Eddy.
"Wow, I knew Julia was nice, but she's even sweeter than I expected."
Eddy nodded, looking down at his signed shirt. "Yeah, she's really cool. And hot."
"Of course you would think that." Connie said, rolling her eyes.
"Am I wrong?"
Connie glanced over at Julia, and looked downward with a blush. "N-no."
The sweet aroma of steeping tea soon filled the space, as Julia looked over Molly's photos. Eddy, and Kai, and Liollmon interjected into the conversation here, and there. Cassandra, and Connie stayed mostly silent for their own reasons.
When Bellamon returned with a several cups of tea, Impmon began to stir. The rookie could finally feel the numbness leave his limbs. He sat up straight, and glared at his partner.
"Thank you so much for your concern." he remarked dryly.
Cassandra did not reply, and simply grabbed her cup of tea. As she reached for the sugar, Connie did the same. The other girl froze, and quickly snatched her hand away.
"S-sorry. You go first." she managed to mumble.
Cassandra quirked a brow, but said nothing.
Julia had watched the exchange, and leaned over to Molly. "Are you sure she's gonna be okay? I've seen some nervous starstruck people, but she's on a different level."
"Well lets just say, meeting you isn't the only thing she's worried about." Molly replied with a small smile.
Julia cocked her head curiously. She then glanced toward Connie. The other girl drank her tea, eyes downward. However, occasionally, her gaze would drift upward to Cassandra, before darting away.
A smile of realization crossed Julia's face. She then turned to Molly, making a zipping motion across her lips.
"I'll be sure to keep quiet."
"I'm sure Connie will appreciate it."
Everyone soon eased into casual conversation after that. They were surprised by how friendly, and welcoming Julia was. As well as the ease with which they were able to talk with her comfortably. Bellamon mostly kept silent, only talking when spoken too, but was sweet, and kind with each of her replies. Even to Impmon, who took every opportunity to try, and flirt with the other digimon, in between stuffing this face with pastries.
Kai soon found his gaze drawn to Cassandra. Her piercing blue eyes, and blonde hair seemed so eerily familiar. The sharp pain in his head returned, making him wince. The images from earlier, flashed through his mind.
He looked through blurry eyes in a pool of bluish liquid. Beyond the pane of glass before him, he could make out a figure. A woman with a crisp outfit, sharp blue eyes, and blonde hair. The details of her face were blurred. Then, beside her, he could make out someone else coming into view.
With another flash of pain the vision disappeared., and Kai shook the thoughts away. Cassandra noticed his stares, and looked up from her tea.
"Is there something wrong?" she asked.
"N-no it's nothing." Kai answered. "I just...kept thinking I've met you somewhere before. But I was wrong."
Cassandra nodded, taking the answer at face value.
Kai took a moment to shake the remaining ache away. He then took a sip of his tea, before his phone buzzed in his pocket.
He set his cup aside, and fished out the device. He had received a new text, with an attached photo. Kai blinked in bewilderment, as he looked to see that the sender was Michael. With great trepidation, he opened the message, and his blood ran cold.
The text itself was a mysterious address, and the words 'Come alone.' Below the message itself was a photo. A picture of Michael, bound tightly to a chair in an old warehouse.
Kai's grip on his phone tightened, and his body slowly began to rise in temperature. He suddenly stood from his feet, earning him curious stares all around.
"I need some air." he stated.
Without another word, he quickly moved toward the sliding doors that lead to the balcony. Molly, and Liollmon sensed something was wrong. The girl assured her companions everything was fine, before she, and her partner followed after Kai.
Kai slammed his hands on the balcony railing, gripping hard onto the metal. A stiff wind blew past him, whipping his long hair in all directions. He cursed under his breath, the heat of his body slowly rising even more.
He heard the sliding doors to the balcony close, and turned. Molly, and Liollmon stood there trepidatiously, looking at Kai in worry.
"What's wrong?" Molly asked, approaching slowly. "Another headache?"
"No...it's not that." Kai answered, looking off in the distance. "I-those strangers in suits they...they took Michael."
Molly's eyes widened. "What?! Are you serious?!"
Kai opened the message from earlier, and handed the phone off to Molly. The girl took it tentatively, her eyes widening in disbelief as she saw the attached photo. She then leaned down, showing it to Liollmon as well.
"Y-your not actually thinking about going alone are you?" Molly asked, standing back to her full height.
All Kai could do was nod.
"Thats crazy!" Molly exclaimed.
Kai wheeled about on her angrily. "What do you expect me to do?!"
A wave of heat pulsed off Kai's body as he roared. Molly took a fearful step back, as Liollmon interposed himself between the pair. Kai's anger quickly dissipated, his body relaxing.
"I'm sorry." he sighed, turning back about.
Molly moved to his side, and tried to give him a comforting smile.
"We'll go with you." she said, placing a hand on his shoulder.
"Molly! You can't be serious!" Liollmon exclaimed. "We should call the DDA, or the police, not go off playing hero!"
Molly looked back to her partner. "Look, I know, but we can't. If we get them involved they'll ask too many questions."
"And there's a chance Michael could be killed if I don't come." Kai added grimly.
Liollmon tried to offer a rebuttal, but it quickly died in his throat.
"Fine." he huffed. "But how exactly do you plan to get there? It's not like we can call your mother to come pick you up, and take us."
"Yeah, your right." Molly admitted. "We're gonna probably need to get a cab there or something."
"A cab where, exactly?"
The three turned in surprise. Standing in the doorway was Cassandra, hand on her hip. Impmon stood at her side, with a quirked brow. A half eaten croissant was held in his hand, crumbs covering his face.
"Uhhh. We-um-that is-"
Molly continued to fumble over her words trying to find some kind of reply. After several moments Kai stepped forward.
"My friends been kidnapped." he stated bluntly. "We can't call the police, and before you ask why, I can't tell you that."
Cassandra turned to Molly with a curious look. The other girl answered her unspoken question with a single nod.
Cassandra seemed to ponder for several moments, taking in Kai's words.
"What can we do to help?" she asked.
Kai, Molly, and Liollmon all blinked in bewilderment. Impmon sputtered, nearly choking on the rest of his croissant.
"What's this 'we' stuff?!" Impmon growled. "Don't go dragging me into this!"
"Are you serious?" Molly asked, dumbfounded.
Cassandra nodded in reply. "Whatever is going on is dangerous. You're going to need all the help you can get. And I want to help."
"Hello?!" Impmon exclaimed. "Am I just being ignored over here?!"
"Yes." Cassandra answered bluntly.
"Are you absolutely sure?" Molly asked, looking deathly serious. "You're gonna be walking into danger, without really knowing the full story."
"I'm sure. I want to help."
Julia suddenly appeared beside Cassandra. "Mind if we join you?"
Molly threw her hands up into the air. "Is everybody listening in on this conversation?!"
"Sorry. We were just concerned." Bellamon replied.
"We wanna help too." Julia added.
Molly was about to argue, but Julia quickly held up a hand.
"Listen I get it." she began. "There's no need to ask if I'm sure. I am. You don't have to explain anything. I'm sure you have your reasons. You, and Liollmon saved our lives, and we want to return the favor."
"We'll try, and help if we can." Bellamon added.
"Well, if you're going toots, than I suppose I can go too." Impmon grinned.
Cassandra rolled her eyes.
Molly turned to Kai, and Liollmon for their opinion.
"If we are going to do this we'll need all the help we can get." Liollmon said.
"If you trust them, I trust them." Kai answered with a small smile.
Molly looked back to the other four. "Alright then. Guess we're all in this."
"What about Connie, and Eddy?" Liollmon asked.
"Don't worry about it, just follow my lead."
Molly headed back inside, with the others trailing behind. Connie, and Eddy stood from the couch, both looking visibly worried.
"Is everything alright?" Eddy asked.
"Yeah, we just have a bit of a family emergency right now." Molly answered. "Me, and Kai are gonna have to head out and handle it."
"Oh, god! Did someone get hurt?' Connie gasped.
"Nothing super serious. Don't worry." Molly replied.
"I...have to meet with my mother for a business function." Cassandra said. "So, I have to be going as well."
"I need to get ready for a photoshoot." Julia frowned. "Sorry we have to cut this fan meeting so short."
"No, its fine." Eddy said shaking his head. "This was awesome, and thanks for the signature."
"No problem!" Julia exclaimed.
Eddy turned to Connie. "Come on, I'll give you a ride back."
Connie nodded, and the two friends said their farewells, and headed out the door. Molly and the others soon followed after. As Julia passed by her agent, she ordered her to postpone all of her appointments. The woman wanted to object, but gave a begrudging nod in reply.
Security tried to follow after the idol, but she insisted Bellamon would be enough. Just like her agent, the two guards accepted her request.
"I'll call us a ride." Cassandra said, as they moved down the hall.
"No need." Julia interjected. "I always have one waiting downstairs. My personal car. It should draw less attention."
As they continued to walk, a sudden realization hit Kai. He quickly whipped out his phone, and scrolled through his contacts. When he found the number he was looking for, he clicked call, and held the device to his ear.
"Who are you calling?" Molly asked.
"Someone who wants to save Michael even more than I do." Kai answered.
Undinemon struggled to catch her breath, panting raggedly. She had sprinted around the neighborhood for the last three blocks, looking for any sign of her partner. But she had found nothing. A gnawing anxiety ate at the pit of her stomach. Combined with her exertion, it made feel as if she were about to lose her lunch.
Suddenly, the digimon's phone buzzed in her bag. Quickly she scrambled to answer it, not even bothering to look at the number.
"Hello?" she greeted through pants.
"Undinemon?"
The digimon's eyes widened. "Kai?!"
"Yeah, its me."
For several seconds, Kai was silent on the other end. He then took in a deep breath.
"Undinemon...Michael's been kidnapped."
"I know." Undinemon replied, her hand curling into a fist.
"I'm sorry. This is all my fault. We're on our way to try, and save him."
"No its not." Undinemon snapped mentally.
"Now's not the time to be throwing out blame." Undinemon growled. "And who is we?"
"Some friends." Kai answered. "Where are you? We'll come get you."
"I'm on the corner of eastman, and laird." Undinemon answered. "And Kai? Please hurry."
"We're on our way."
With that, the line went dead, and Undinemon pocketed the device. She tried to take in a steady breath, to stop herself from throwing up.
Across the street, Francisco, and Ariomon continued to watch Undinemon closely. The radio was set on its lowest volume, playing a soft rock tune.
"Someone just called her, and now it looks she's waiting for someone." Francisco commented, looking through his binoculars.
"She was in a rush just a minute ago." Ariomon pointed. "I wonder who could have called her."
"Hmmm, I think she was looking someone." Francisco surmised. "Maybe that's who called her?"
"That's a good a guess as any."
The two waited in silence, occasionally glancing back over at their target. After several minutes, an suv with tinted windows rolled up to Undinemon. Francisco grabbed his binoculars, trying to get some kind of look at the new arrivals.
The door facing away from the pair swung open, and Undinemon hopped inside. Then, without pause, the car took off down the street.
Francisco cursed, and tossed his binoculars aside. Quickly, he revved the engine, and pulled out of the parking space. He then hit the gas hard, trying to catch back up with their targets.
"Where could she be headed?" Ariomon asked.
"We'll find out soon enough." Francisco replied, just as the suv came back into view.
To Be Continued...
Next Time On Digimon Cross! Episode 10:Search And Rescue, Part 2
Author's Notes:
I deeply apologize to anyone who was waiting on this chapter. I've just been caught up lots of real stuff, as well as working on another project in addition to this one. Thank you all for reading!