Digimon World Tour Chapter 27: Des Voitures à Vivre, a digimon fanfic

Digimon World Tour

Recap

[Matt] I was in the middle of feeling sorry for myself when this kid Ryouma showed up with his Psychemon. He thought he was a smooth operator, but somebody forgot to tell that to his partner. He just flipped Gabumon off. He Dark Digivolved to Astamon, this gangster with a machine gun. I'm serious, a machine gun! Garurumon got shot in the paw, and I took the bullet out. But that didn't satisfy him. He told me nobody was meant to fight alone and that I was a selfish jerk. I realized he was right. And when Astamon nearly knifed my friend, that brought me to my breaking point! I punched the snot out of him, and WereGarurumon finished him off! Surprisingly, Ryouma had only challenged me because he liked the challenge. Weird. Now he's out roaming the streets somewhere.

Chapter 27: Des Voitures à Vivre

Anya

While we were in the middle of recording our latest album, Commander Sampson called us and asked for a status report, so we took it into the conference room and put him on speakerphone. Matt informed him of this Ryouma and what had happened with him. "Hmm... very curious. Here in Japan, it seems both Davis and Kenneth have mastered the DigiSoul Full Charge separately. ExVeemon Digivolved to Paildramon, and Stingmon Digivolved to JewelBeemon. I expect the others to catch up eventually, but it is a slow process. Davis was his usual dense self, and I believe it's spreading to the others. However, I am glad to hear the report. So, who should be next?" "Are you asking for volunteers, Commander?" I inquired. "...Well, no, but that is a good suggestion. Would you be willing to volunteer, Anya?" "I can only promise to do my best when the opportunity presents itself, sir." "Sounds rather non-committal." "My apologies, Commander." "Very well. Just see that you're not non-committal on the battlefield." "Oh never, never, sir. Honest." "Very well. Keep up the good work. Finally, I have some good news. I received a phone call from the label's European branch. Renault wants a new television campaign, and they want all of you to appear in it."

"Renault?" T.K. asked. "The third biggest European automaker by production behind Volkswagen Group and PSA Peugeot Citroën," Thomas replied. "And that's why I call him 'Nerdstein'," Marcus remarked. Sampson resumed speaking. "That's exactly right, Thomas. For many years, Renault had a successful promotional campaign using the song 'Johnny and Mary' by Robert Palmer. They want to use that again in a new campaign, but they need a new recording. They turned to Sony Music Entertainment, and they suggested you. You should be honored." "Oh yeah? Why couldn't they get the original artist?" Marcus asked ignorantly. "He's dead." "Oh..."

After the phone call, we returned to our various labors of recording the album. However, my mind reflected upon what I had said to the commander. Was I truly non-committal? Was I not devoted to my work to my government? Was I being caught up in the fame and the glory? Was I becoming decadent? God forbid.

Izzy

I had appointed myself the authority on DigiSoul and its effects relating to Digivolution. I had created the new Digivices, and so everyone was looking to me. However, I had one hurdle that I should have anticipated: how to reach Mega level. Tentomon had never progressed that far, and the only reason Agumon and Gabumon had was because of the prophesy. I suppose I'd been complacent, and I only had myself to blame. I was bound and determined, however, to rectify that problem. I took in countless hours of personal research and development, taking great care not to slip academically. I slowly began to find sleep counterproductive, and it worried my parents and friends. Even Tentomon began to worry, as he spoke up late one evening while I was rapidly drinking energy shots and drawing designs for the new Digivice. "Izzy, what are you doing to yourself? I'm not in any hurry to Digivolve," he buzzed. My movements became more rapid. "Just a few more touches... ugh..." Then, I dropped to the floor.

All I remembered at that point was hearing Tentomon call out "Super Shocker!" and then getting an electric jolt. I eventually came to. "...Uh... huh? Tentomon." "Oh, Izzy, you had me worried there, buddy." "What happened to me?" "You dropped from your chair and your heart stopped beating. I believe I just saved your life." "A heart failure? But how?" Tentomon held up two empty bottles of energy shots. "Possible overdose much?" "Hmmm... point taken. I'm sorry, Tentomon. I'm just... there's so much pressure put on me." "No, Izzy. You put that pressure on yourself. You've been burning the candle at both ends, and I would dare say you were about to get burned yourself." "Ha... I really need a new hobby. Something to decompress me." I got up and affectionately rubbed Tentomon's head. "Thanks a lot." Then I walked to the bathroom to brush my teeth, as it was very late.

We decided to continue the conversation after school at headquarters. "Somehow, I envy Matt and the others. They live seemingly exciting lives, traveling all over the world, working on something they enjoy doing," I told my partner. "You mean music?" "Exactly. Surely there must be a scientifically calculated way to create a hit record. I wonder..."

["When the Heart Rules the Mind"

Written by Steve Hackett and Steve Howe

Performed by Intellect [Koushiro "Izzy" Izumi (singing voice by Louis Tomlinson); "Whiz" (Robbie Rist); Ken Ichijouji (Derek Stephen Prince); Yolei Inoue (Tifanie Christun); Cody Hida (singing voice by Andrew Rannells ); Commander Richard Sampson (Jamieson Price)]

We enter Izzy's perfectly calculated daydream. The band is set up in the War Room, flashing light borders and all. Ken and a session player (who looks suspiciously like Whiz from Kidd Video, also created by Saban Brands) are on "dueling" guitars. Cody programs a drumming machine while standing by at backup vocals (the reason for that is that he's too short to effectively drum). Yolei and Commander Sampson are both stationed at synthesizers, while Izzy is in the middle of the action on vocals. For reference, watch ARERFbiqCfk on YT. The song starts up as we get various shots of the band. Izzy seems to be doing some white man's version of "The Carlton Dance". Max Bacon he clearly isn't. Commenting fashion wise, Izzy is going for the "Don Johnson" look as he is sporting an Italian sport coat, an orange T-shirt, white linen pants, and slip-on sockless loafers. Ken, Yolei, and Cody are wearing their usual Digital World outfits, while Commander Sampson stays in uniform and "Whiz" wears his usual Flipside outfit (an orange-brown blazer and pants and a green shirt).

Izzy:

Mother, protect me, protect me from myself
Lately, I can't tell who really are my friends

Izzy/Ken:
Burning the candle, the candle at both ends
Through crowds, across floors
Each night I just pretend

Izzy/Band:
When the heart rules the mind
One look and love is blind
When you want the dream to last
Take a chance, forget the past (Izzy: the past)

Izzy:
Watching the actor, that takes the stage by storm
Stealing the limelight, while we're in the wings

Izzy/Ken:
Sometimes the hero, must play the underdog
But I don't feel the same
I must have everything

And why is the band named "Intellect"? It's because all the members have a considerable amount of brainpower and wisdom. Yep, you're not going to find someone like Davis here, uh uh. And speaking of brainpower, word has it that this song was scientifically engineered to be a hit. This version is a classic combination of progressive rock, album-oriented rock, and carefully calculated computerized polish (with only minimal use of Auto-Tune to hide any possible effects of puberty on Izzy's vocal cords).

Izzy/Band::
When the heart rules the mind
(Whiz: One look) One look and love is blind
When you want the dream to last
(Whiz: Take a chance) Take a chance, forget the past (Izzy: the past)

Seasons will change

Izzy:
You must move on

Izzy/Band:
Follow your dream

We now come to the instrumental part, and it looks like the band is enjoying themselves. Just as we enter the last set of choruses, Ken lays out an epic guitar solo while Cody programs in some timpani drums. Then, the instruments go down to only acoustic guitars played by Ken and "Whiz".

Izzy:

When the heart rules the mind
One look and love is blind
When you want the dream to last
Take a chance, forget the past

This immediately builds into the rest of the band joining in. We get plenty of shots of the band (unlike the original video which mostly focused on Steve Hackett and Steve Howe).

Izzy/Band:

When the heart rules the mind
(Whiz: One look) One look and love is blind

(Whiz: One look and love is blind)
When you want the dream to last
(Whiz: Take a chance) Take a chance, forget the past

When the heart rules the mind
(Whiz: One look) One look and love is blind

(Whiz: One look and love is blind)
When you want the dream to last
(Whiz: Take a chance) Take a chance, forget the past

(Ken/Sampson: When the heart)

When the heart rules the mind
(Whiz: One look) One look and love is blind

(Ken/Sampson: When the heart)
When you want the dream to last
(Whiz: Take a chance) Take a chance, forget the past(Izzy: the past)

Seasons will change

Izzy:
You must move on

Izzy/Band:
Follow your dream

Sampson, "Whiz", and Ken take it home on their instruments. Finally, Cody decisively strikes a gong. That concludes the song, and we return to reality. Now aren't you glad I used a member of One Direction and not Mona Marshall?

Izzy

When I thought about it, it might have had a bit too much polish. On the other hand... "I just came to a realization, Tentomon. If Ken, Commander Sampson, Yolei, Cody, and I go on tour, who will stay here at the base?" "Hmm... well, that's show biz. Maybe you should try soccer." "Good thinking." I made a mental note to ask Ken for some private tutoring.

Anya

Kari came to me with a private matter concerning her reproductive health. She was worried about the regulation of her cycle, so we found an OB-GYN. The two of us, along with Rika, visited him. He was a good doctor, and quite cute as well. He prescribed NuvaRing for each of us, and we had it filled that day.

That afternoon, I called Kari and Rika and put them on speakerphone in the lavatory. We would insert the rings at the same time and reset our biological clocks. Rika could be more spontaneous in her... relations with Marcus, Kari would have regular cycles, and everyone would be on the same page. I dried off my hands well after washing them. "But guys, I'm not even sexually active. Are you sure this is gonna work?" Kari asked with concern through the phone. "Aww, quit your worrying, Kamiya. I'll just be glad not to deal with that stupid cap anymore. I keep having to clean the applicator," Rika grumbled. I opened the foil pouch and pulled out the ring. "Very well. Ladies, today begins a new chapter in regulating our hormones." "Whatever. I just want to get this show on the road." "All right, all right. Are you ready over there, Kari?" "Squatting and ready to go." Rika counted us off. "In five, six, seven, eight."

After our evening repast, Greg and I took a sightseeing cruise of Paris in a chic boat down the Seine. We stood outside, looking at the beautiful night sky. "Gregorivich?" "Yeah?" "Do you think I am non-committal?" "...Oh, you're still worried about what Commander Sampson said, huh?" "No, that is not the question I'm asking. Do you think I am non-committal?" "Well... no."

My eyes widened. "You hesitated. Why?" "Look, I was trying to play it safe. But I really don't think you're non-committal. After all, you're working for your government and with us. It look a lot of dedication for you to get that pizza up to my room in Sydney. And I can't forget the seven years you've spent practicing your saxophone. I mean, you're a woman. And you play sax! That says it all!" "And yet, there is so much more I could be doing. Matt, T.K., Kari, and even you are surpassing me." "Just because our..." He looked around to make sure no one else was listening, then went back to me. "...Digimon can reach Ultimate? That's silly. Anya, you'll get your chance, I know it. If you want it bad enough, it's gonna happen." Somehow, I was not convinced. "How can I be sure?" He took me into his arms. "Because I said so, that's how. I believe in you, and I'll do whatever I can." "I appreciate the sentiment," I whispered into his ear. We continued looking out at the stars and scenery.

That night, I was in my room, practicing my soprano saxophone before bed. I thought about what Greg had said, and about the challenges that would lie ahead of me.

["Going Home" (Instrumental)

Written by Kenny "G" Gorelick and Walter Afanasieff

Performed by Anya Rădulescu (Mindi Abair on saxophone)]

After doing the necessary warmups, Anya cleans the mouthpiece again, then secures it and counts herself in. As she plays, we take a look at Paris in the late of the evening as people are going home. Lalamon seems to enjoy the sweet music.

Since 1989, this song has become an unconventional mega-hit throughout China: It has become the unofficial national closing song for businesses such as food courts, outdoor markets, health clubs, shopping malls, train stations, etc., throughout the country. Many businesses begin piping the music over their loudspeakers shortly before closing at night. Television stations also play the song before ending their evening broadcasts at night. Many Chinese, when asked, say they associate the song with the need to finish their activity or business and go home (although they may not even know the name the song or its artist).

Greg

The next day, two representatives from Renault and Publicis Groupe stopped by the studio to talk about this new campaign, which was actually a reboot of an old campaign from the 1980s. We listened to the original song and I quickly looked up the AllMusic review on my phone. The reviewer claimed this song was "a moody synth-driven ballad with perceptive lyrics about a doomed romantic relationship". I couldn't have said it better myself. "Geez, the lyrics sound depressing. Why'd you turn this into a car commercial?" Marcus grumbled. The Renault rep didn't look happy at all with that and he yelled something at him in French. After he settled down, he took us through the entire advertising history of Renault. We only had a few days left in France, so Thomas politely asked him to wrap it up.

We had about an hour to learn the song before auditions were to be held. They were looking for subdued, smooth, and stylish vocals. I did my best to impress, but after two retakes, I wasn't what they were looking for. In fact, none of us were what they were vocally looking for.

Thomas

As someone who spent some part of his life in Europe, I had a feeling some of us would not measure up. T.K. sounded smooth, but he accentuated the blue-eyed soul in his voice the first time. The second time, his vocals were too similar to that of a boy band. Matt was too alternative, Marcus got bored easily, Greg was a moderate failure, and I was no better. None of the girls were considered, as the original song was performed by a male. If the Renault rep had hair, he surely would've pulled it out. "Is there no one else here who can do the job?" he groaned. I thought it over and calculated the risk. "Actually, there is one more person we hadn't tried. His name is Nakai Kazuya, and he's one of our engineers." "Can he sing?" "You could say that I'm quite personal with him. He has an ear for music, and I think he can do it." "Well, where is he?" the Renault rep demanded to know. "One moment, please. I'll go get him."

I walked outside and into a private room in the studio. Then, I switched my Digivice to its normal mode and pressed the button on the side. "Gaomon, realize." Within seconds, Gaomon appeared. "Sir!" "Gaomon, I've introduced you to the Renault representative as Nakai Kazuya." "And why would you do that, sir?" "Because I don't want to let the label down." He considered it carefully. "Forgive me for saying so, sir, but this isn't like you." "I've calculated the risks. First, we'll agree that you will never perform this song live in a concert. If this song is ever added to the playlist, I will sing lead vocal. Second, no press conferences or live publicity stunts." "Hmm... so you create a mystery artist which stimulates interest in the band. I like that, sir." I smiled. "I knew you would. Anyway, just wait outside until I call for you... Nakai." "Sir, yes sir."

I walked back in while Gaomon waited just outside the door. I explained the terms and they hesitated to agree. "We'd like to see the man first," the Publicis representative stated. I opened the door. "All right. Come in, Nakai."

Gaomon entered, and the man from Publicis started laughing. "That is quite cute. A dog with boxing gloves." "Well, I wouldn't say I was a dog, sir," Gaomon explained. The advertising agent's eyes widened. "It talks as well?" "That's why I said I would necessarily say I was a dog. I'm actually a Digimon, a Digital Monster." "...A monster?"

Greg

What was Thomas thinking? I'd expect this out of Marcus, but clearly not Thomas H. Norstein. The man was insane. He'd blow our whole cover. I swore, for about half a minute, that I'd disassociate myself with him in case he ever got court-martialed by Commander Sampson. But rather than tell him that in front of the two businessmen, I took him outside. "Excuse us one moment, Mr. Norstein and I need to talk," I said. They nodded, and I escorted Thomas to a few yards outside the conference room.

"OK, Mr. Norstein, what's the deal?" "Why should I have to explain myself to you, Mr. Logan?" "Because, if you hadn't noticed, we're supposed to keep the Digimon a secret! If this goes wrong, our entire cover could be blown! Now I would expect this out of Marcus, but clearly not you." "I calculated the risk, and if you know me, you know that I would never do anything without having a clear reason why. The label recommended our group, but none of us were able to give the representatives what they wanted. Gaomon seems like the next logical choice." "Logical? Really? He's a Digimon. He may be a great engineer, but that doesn't necessarily make him the best choice to perform." He put his hands on my shoulders."Listen carefully, Greg. If anything goes wrong, I will take all the blame. I stake all my honor as a Norstein on this." "Your last name and your family's honor mean nothing to me, but I believe you anyway. Let's just hope for the best." "Right."

We walked back inside, where the two representatives were still unsure about what to say. So was I. After hearing Thomas speak for about five minutes, they were convinced. We set out to record that day.

After recording the main song, the Renault and Publicis reps informed us that we'd also be involved in photo shoots and recording commercial spots for movie theaters and television. That would eat up whatever time we had left in Paris. Needless to say, Marcus was very disappointed. He shouted a number of words I cannot repeat here, then he left with Rika for about half an hour to get over some of his frustrations. Based on what I saw on her face, Rika was not as eager to roll in the hay as she had been.

The minimum legal age for driving alone in Japan and in France is 18 years, so the only three people who qualified to drive for the campaign were Anya, Matt - albeit just barely - and yours truly. Since driving a car in Paris was not suggested due to the traffic, we were moved to the town of Chartres, 91 km and about an hour south-west by train. We stayed at the Best Western Grand Monarque, again a very nice hotel in the area.

In the Bagra Army headquarters, the next Hunter arrives. He's a young man with short, blue hair under a floppy hat; wearing a brown hoodie over a dark green T-shirt, yellow pants, and brown boots with grey socks. He approaches Lord Bagra and Tactimon. "So, I'm guessing it's my turn, huh?" he asks. Lord Bagra responds. "Yes it is, Mr. Tobari. We have indications that our targets have moved to an area outside of Paris. The town of Chartres." "All right, soooo what do you want me to do? Root them, wipe them, what?" "Look for this girl." He sees a picture of Kari. Ren grins. "You got yourself a deal. But first, you've gotta twink Dracmon and me." "Err... what?" "Get me the best possible gear for this level, bro." Tactimon becomes quite annoyed. "How dare you refer to Lord Bagra as 'bro'! You have the best possible gear, now use it!" Ren puts his hands up defensively. "All right, all right. Sheesh. Just port me out of here and I'll get on the job." "Port?" "Teleport. Come on, it makes sense in context." Ren is teleported out.

Anya

For this part of the commercial, I was slated to exit from a cottage in the country and drive the Renault Fluence Zero Emissions to a basketball court where Kari and T.K. would be waiting. Our director was a Russian who was one of the best directors in his field. Unfortunately, he didn't speak a word of English or Japanese, so he hired two translators to accompany him every which where he went. Luckily, he was able to speak to me, for more than obvious reasons. I was supposed to enter the car and drive it a certain way. Everything was carefully coordinated.

What I did not anticipate was a young man randomly appearing out of nowhere. He wore a brown hoodie over a dark green T-shirt, yellow pants, and brown boots with grey socks. He did a short wave. "Yo." "Yo?" He looked at my Digivice in its watch form. "Nice watch you got there. Where'd you get it?" "Um..." "Eh, no matter. Name's Ren. What's yours?" "Anya." "Cool. Now, you wouldn't happen to see a girl with brown hair and eyes around here, would ya?" Something was off about him, but the director gave me my cue. Ren decided to follow me.

["Johnny and Mary"

Written by Robert Palmer

Performed by The Teenage Wolves feat. "Nakai Kazuya"

Lead Singer: "Nakai Kazuya"/Gaomon (Skip Stellrecht)]

This is essentially a long-form commercial for the Renault brand of automobiles so popular in Europe. The minimum legal age for driving alone in Japan and in France is 18 years, so the only three people who qualify are Greg, Anya, and Matt (just barely). So, they qualify to act as drivers in this commercial. The commercial begins outside the Best Western Grand Monarque, with Matt and Greg buckling up in separate cars. Greg drives the Renault Captur, a car with "the expressive styling and driving position of an SUV, the cabin space and modular interior of an MPV and ultimately the agility and driving enjoyment of a compact saloon [sedan] car." Matt drives the Renault Mégane Hatch. According to their website, "With expressive design, a range of eco-friendly, efficient yet powerful engines and innovative technology, the Mégane Hatch has the power to surprise at every turn." They start the engines and race through the French countryside.

Gaomon: (VO)

Johnny's always running around
Trying to find certainty
He needs all the world to confirm
That he ain't lonely
Mary counts the walls
Knows he tires easily

Johnny thinks the world would be right
If it could buy truth from him
Mary says he changes his mind more than a woman
But she made her bed
Even when the chance was slim

This commercial will later be edited into 2:00, 1:30, 1:00, :45, :30, :20, and :15 slots. At this point, Greg's Captur stops to pick up Marcus and Rika from a soccer game. Marcus and Rika goof off in the back, driving Greg up the wall. Meanwhile, at a country park, Thomas is besting a French woman in the game of chess. Matt honks his horn as he parks. Thomas quickly makes a move, declares "checkmate", accepts congratulations from the woman, and gets in the car. While riding with Matt, Thomas uses a tablet left in the car.

Gaomon: (VO)
Johnny says he's willing to learn
When he decides he's a fool
Johnny says he'll live anywhere
When he earns time to
Mary combs her hair
Says she should be used to it

Mary always hedges her bets
She never knows what to think
She says that he still acts
Like he is being discovered
Scared that he'll be caught
Without a second thought
Running around

And not too far off, Anya and Ren walk out of a country cottage and get in Anya's Renault Fluence Z.E., outfitted with a 22 kWh lithium-ion battery which allows a total all-electric range of 185 km (115 mi) measured on the NEDC combined cycle, with speeds up to 135 km/h (84 mph). Anya looks like she's enjoying herself as we get plenty of footage of her on the road. As for Matt and Greg, T.K. greets the two as he scores a penalty shot in basketball. Kari is dressed in basketball gear and is taking her boyfriend on. The two look like they're having fun. Greg is technically the first to arrive. We get more shots of the cars as Anya and Ren arrive. (In one alternate ending, Matt is the only one to arrive. In the other, Greg is the only one to arrive. And in the third, Anya and Ren are the only ones to arrive.) The rest of the "music video" plays out like a typical car commercial.

Gaomon: (VO)
Johnny feels he's wasting his breath
Trying to talk sense to her
Mary says he's lacking a real
Sense of proportion
So she combs her hair
Knows he tires easily

Johnny's always running around
Trying to find certainty
He needs all the world to confirm
That he ain't lonely
Mary counts the walls
Says she should be used to it

Johnny's always running around
Running around

Anya

After the commercial, the director didn't know what to do with Ren. He ranted in Russian about random people attempting to photobomb their way into his creations. We filled out our paperwork, did some more shoots, and then took a break for lunch. The caterers provided a lovely, authentic French picnic and Ren invited himself to join us.

Throughout lunch, Kari and I remained suspicious of him. He seemed to be getting along well with the others. That is, until he revealed his true intentions. "Hey, uh... you with the brown hair. Kari?" "Yeah?" "This is actually gonna sound really funny, but my boss wants me to take you on." "Your boss?" "Well, actually... he wants me to destroy you." She got up then and there as the expression on her face changed. "Oh, it is on." Immediately, Marcus went on the attack as he rushed him, grabbing him by both collars. "You thinking of hurting my friend? Well you can just forget it!" "You're not seriously thinking of ganking me, are you?" Ren asked. "No, I wouldn't do that, I'd just punch your face in!"

As usual, Thomas had an explainiation. "Marcus, I'm familiar with that term. Ganking is when you attack and kill someone with a severely unfair advantage. It's a term used by players of Massively Multiplayer Online Role Playing Games." "O-M-G, you're a gamer?" Ren asked. "...I've played on occasion." "That is just awesome. What games do you play?" Thomas' eyes narrowed. "That is beside the point, young man. Now, who exactly is your boss?" "If you get Mr. Bruiser here to let me go, I'll tell you."

Marcus reluctantly let Ren go. "All right. My boss' name is The Old Clock Shop Man, otherwise known as Lord Bagra." "Lord Bagra?!" we shouted at the same time. Marcus picked Ren back up. "Back up you go!" "Whoa, whoa, whoa... dude, you ever brush your teeth? I mean, your breath... ugh!" Marcus breathed right in his face in defiance. "Marcus, for crying out loud, put him down!" Rika ordered.

Again, our resident bruiser reluctantly did so. "You got some nerve talking like that to me, kid." "Hey, I'm just after Kari. I get promised this great opportunity, complete a few missions, get paid... it's really nice. You ought to try it sometime." Kari growled. "Look, I'll make this simple. A Digimon fight. Yours against mine. I win, you come along peacefully and I get your Digimon. I lose, I leave you alone. Deal?" "You've got it!"

Was she crazy? I do not know, but I knew that this was the opportunity I would have to commit to. I quickly stood up. "No! Kari, I beg of you, stay out of this. Let me fight him." "Anya, I couldn't ask you to do that. This is between him and me. I can't run away for the rest of my life. Tai wouldn't want it that way."

T.K. was the next to stand up. "No, I'll take you on, Ren." "T.K..." "Kari, I can't sit by here and let him destroy you like this. I promised Sora-" "Never mind what you promised Sora. I can handle this myself. I'm stronger now, and- and I want to prove it."

Ren was at a loss for words, but he finally did say something. "So, you're all eager to save Princess Daisy here. You with the bucket hat, T.K., I'm guessing. And Anya... I suppose could ask the boss to find someone to keep you busy. And to be quite honest... I'm more interested in you, Anya. After all, we did spend some time together." He thought he was trying to charm me, a large error on his part. "You invited yourself, Ren. Very well, I will be your opponent. Kari, T.K., I have great confidence you will be able to handle whatever Lord Bagra sends your way." T.K. merely nodded, and Ren seemed to agree with it. "All right, I'll give you my cell phone number. Just text me when you find a good location, and we'll meet tonight at dark. OK?" Kari growled again, then let out a short nod. After giving us his number, Ren casually saluted. "All right. I'll be looking forward to it." Then he walked off.

As soon as he was out of sight, Kari's head collapsed into T.K.'s shoulder. All the boy could do was comfort his love. Greg just stared at me in wonder. Matt shook his head. "This is a trap, I know it. Guys, you just be careful. I should come as well." I shook my head. "No, Matt. You've already fought one, you deserve a rest. This battle is something Lalamon and I must do."

I found a prime location for our fight. It was a large park by the river Eure. There was just enough light to where we could see, and it was out of the way in order not to arouse suspicion from the locals. T.K, Kari, Greg, and I bravely walked towards the battlefield apparent. It was either that, or Kari was putting on a very brave face. We arrived at the center of the park, where Ren was waiting for us. "'Sup, guys. So you added one other person to the party."

Greg

This guy's attitude was getting to me. "Yeah, I did come. I'm here to support Anya and make sure you stay away from her." "Oooh, aren't you leet? Whatever. Anya, you're going Player against Player. The rest of you... say hello to my little friend." He held up his Digivice. "Allomon, realize." And out of his Digivice came this blue dinosaur with red stripes and Native American dressings. I looked him up on my Digimon Analyzer. "'Allomon, an Armor-level Dinosaur Digimon. This dinosaur is considered fiery and quite explosive. His special attacks include Dino Burst and Dynamite Head.' Armor-level, eh? Piece of cake." I brought my Digivice to its normal form and pressed the button on the side. "Veemon, realize!" Within seconds, Veemon came out and was by my side. "Who have we got this time, Greg?" I pointed to Allomon. "This creep's partner, Allomon!"

Ren just smirked. "Uh, wrong. I'm saving my actual partner for Anya. This is just to keep you noobs busy. Allomon, you know what to do." "Did he just call us newbies?" T.K. asked, a little irked. "You need to play some more video games, bro! A noob doesn't always mean a new player. Sometimes it means a crappy one." "Well if anyone is a noob, it's you," my buddy with the bucket hat pointed out. "T.K., you don't have to stoop to his level," Kari said. The two brought their Digivices to their normal modes. "Patamon/Gatomon, realize!" The Digimon came right by their sides.

"Oooh, I'm shaking in my boots. Not. Come on, Anya. We have more important things to do," Ren insisted. Anya reluctantly followed him, but not before turning back and calling to us. "Be careful, and good luck!" "Thanks, babe!" I called back to her. They went to a separate part of the park.

Patamon rallied the troops. "Come on, guys. The sooner we beat this breathing fossil, the sooner we can find out what this guy's really up to." Gatomon got in position. "I'm with you, Patamon." "Then what are we waiting for?" Veemon asked, clenching his fist.

I nodded. "Right. Let's do this! Rrragh!" I fully ignited my DigiSoul. The other two followed suit, but were just a tad more silent. "Separately, or together?" I asked. Kari answered, "Together. That'll save time." T.K. and I nodded again.

"DigiSoul! Full... CHARGE!"

"Patamon Warp Digivolve to... MagnaAngemon!"

"Gatomon Warp Digivolve to... Magnadramon!"

"Veemon Warp Digivolve to... AeroVeedramon!"

T.K. pointed the way. "Move out!" So, they did. MagnaAngemon drew out his holy sword from his right arm and began slashing away, while Magnadramon called down energy bolts from the heavens to strike Allomon. The dinosaur had great tenacity, though. He just kept jumping up and ramming MagnaAngemon in the gut with his head. The force was downright explosive, so we hid somewhere to watch from safety. "I wish I had a box of popcorn right now," I said.

Anya

Ren took me to a separate area of the park, far away from the others, but still well lit. "Wouldn't want them to interfere," he explained. Finally, we stopped as he revealed his Digivice. "Dracmon, realize." Out from his Digivice came a vampire/imp themed pale-skinned Digimon who wore a black mask with red and green eye markings on it. Embedded on his palms were a set of eyeballs whose pupils matched the eye markings. Though he had wings, they were connected by a gold trinket and rested around his waist. He had this sick smile on his face.

I brought out my Digivice and posed with it. "Lalamon, realize!" Lalamon appeared. "Ready to fight, Anya... oh. Well, hi there." She turned her attention to Dracmon, who seemed to be smitten as he floated around her.

Ren gained the same sick smile on his face. "Well then, I guess it's unanimous." "What is?" "Dracmon seems to like your partner, and I like you." "I'm flattered, but I'm spoken for." "Oh, so you fell for the four-eyed geek? What's that piece of lard got that I haven't, baby?" "A personality. Besides, you are too far out of my league." "Aww come on. In my honest opinion, to be quite honest, you've scored a crit on my heart. I'll just have to do something about that." What he did next was unspeakable. Lalamon had to turn away.

"Ahhhh... what's the matter? You debuffed?" "You're disgusting!" I hissed. Ren just washed his hand with hand sanitizer. "Oh sure, sure, like what's his face ever does the same for you. Why does he keep you around?"

Then, Dracmon spoke. His voice was haunting and piercing. "Yes, why does he keep you around? Why does your team keep you around, hmm? It isn't like you do anything important. You're just decadent." "Huh? But how... how do you know these things? Ren, how does your Digimon know these things?"

Ren put away his bottle of hand sanitizer. "Oh, he reads the doubts in people's hearts and minds. Nice little party trick. Go ahead and show her what else you can do, bro." "Right, Ren. Eye of Nightmare!" He thrust his open hands forward and cast a spell from the evil eyes on his palms.

Lalamon

It was terrible. Dracmon had cast a horrible spell on her. Her eyes became cold and blank, and she looked like she was in so much emotional pain. She grabbed her head and moaned. "Anya..." I squeaked in compassion. I turned towards Dracmon and let him have it. "You big bully! How can you do that to a human? I'm the one you should use that attack on, not her!" Ren answered for his Digimon. "And what are you gonna do about it?" "Seed Blast!" I fired explosive tree nuts at him. After all, he did ask for it. Even after taking the attack, he had that sick smile on his face. I wanted to wipe it off. "Please. I got 99 problems, but a few explosive acorns aren't one of them. Just face it, you floating petunia. Your friend's heart belongs to Dracmon, and there's nothing you can do about it. This is the ultimate DoT. That's Damage over Time, B-T-W. Once my partner destroys her soul, she won't be in any condition to fight. And that means you won't be able to Digivolve, which then means I get to trim off a few of your branches!"

Greg

The battle lasted for at least ten minutes, until Magnadramon hatched a plan. She sprayed a debilitating mist on Allomon. That severely weakened him. "Gate of Destiny!" MagnaAngemon opened up his gate and AeroVeedramon punched the dinosaur with his Magnum Crasher, sending him airborne and into the gate. Just like taking out the trash.

The three of us cheered. I reported the good news to Anya. "Anya, this is Greg. Allomon has been taken out of play, permanently." I could hear her voice groaning. "Anya? Anya, are you all right?" She moaned even louder, then let out a piercing scream. T.K. came to a very possible conclusion. "Anya's in trouble! Let's go!" So, we boarded our Digimon and flew off towards Anya's location.

When we arrived, this vampire/imp themed pale-skinned Digimon was apparently committing horrible and unspeakable mental torture to Anya. By now she was on her knees. I reacted immediately. "Anya!" But she couldn't hear me. "Don't look into Dracmon's eyes, or else you'll be caught, too!" Lalamon warned us.

We moved up high and out of Dracmon's line of sight, then motioned Lalamon to join us. "So, what happened?" Kari asked. "It was horrible. Ren hit on her, Anya turned him down, then he did something really disgusting. After that, he sent Dracmon to use his Eye of Nightmare attack. And now, Anya's heart is completely shrouded in darkness. Ohhhh... it's terrible! Poor Anya..." "Well, what can we do?" I wondered. Lalamon nervously spun her leaf while she thought. "I've got it! I could use my Sing a Song attack to bring her back, but I'll need your help, Greg." "Why do you say that?" "It's 'Total Eclipse of the Heart', one of Anya's favorite songs. She knows all the lyrics, and maybe that'll bring her out of her funk. All you'd have to do is sing 'Turn around' and 'Turn around, bright eyes'." "How long is it going to be?" "I don't know. There's a slight chance... you might have to use all seven minutes and two seconds." T.K. and Kari groaned. "I'm sorry, that's Jim Steinman for you," Lalamon said.

"Hey, maybe I can combine this with my Esperanza Soul Therapy," T.K. suggested. "Or maybe we can combine our techniques," Kari added. That took me aback, a little. "Wait, I saw the battle footage. You can't be serious, can you?" "As serious as a heart attack," Kari admitted. She then looked to me. "You'll have it easy, I promise." "All right, if you say so, Kari. But Jim Steinman, really..."

So, we set our plan into motion. We got down on the ground and I stood right behind Anya, making sure to avoid Dracmon's evil eyes. "All right, here goes nothing. Sing a Song!" And rather than sing, the original 1982 backing track came out of her mouth.

["Total Eclipse of the Heart"

Written by Jim Steinman

Performed by Anya Rădulescu (Kate Higgins)

"Turn Around" Performed by Greg Logan (Doug Erholtz)]

And sure enough, the original backing track used in 1982 comes out of Lalamon's mouth. Greg reluctantly steps up to the plate. We mentally find Anya, clad in white, at Holloway Sanatorium in Virginia Water, Surrey, England on a bleak day. [See lcOxhH8N3Bo on YouTube for reference.] Groups of Troopmon are seen dancing and participating in various school activities such as swimming, karate, gymnastics, football, fencing, soccer, and singing in a choir. However, Anya has no time to watch them because Dracmon is chasing after her.

Anya:

(Greg: Turn around)
Every now and then
I get a little bit lonely
And you're never coming round

(Greg: Turn around)
Every now and then
I get a little bit tired
Of listening to the sound of my tears

(Greg: Turn around)
Every now and then
I get a little bit nervous
That the best of all the years have gone by

(Greg: Turn around)
Every now and then I get a little bit terrified
And then I see the look in your eyes
(Greg: Turn around, bright eyes)
Every now and then I fall apart
(Greg: Turn around, bright eyes)
Every now and then I fall apart

(Greg: Turn around)
Every now and then
I get a little bit restless
And I dream of something wild
(Greg: Turn around)
Every now and then
I get a little bit helpless
And I'm lying like a child in your arms
(Greg: Turn around)
Every now and then
I get a little bit angry
And I know I've got to get out and cry
(Greg: Turn around)
Every now and then
I get a little bit terrified
But then I see the look in your eyes
(Greg: Turn around, bright eyes)
Every now and then I fall apart
(Greg: Turn around, bright eyes)
Every now and then I fall apart

And I need you now tonight
And I need you more than ever
And if you only hold me tight
We'll be holding on forever
And we'll only be making it right
'Cause we'll never be wrong
Together we can take it to the end of the line
Your love is like a shadow on me all of the time
(Lalamon/Kari/T.K.: All of the time)
I don't know what to do and I'm always in the dark
We're living in a powder keg and giving off sparks
I really need you tonight
Forever's gonna start tonight
(Anya/Lalamon/Kari/T.K.: Forever's gonna start tonight)

Once upon a time
I was falling in love

Anya/Lalamon:

But now I'm only falling apart
There's nothing I can do
A total eclipse of the heart

Anya:
Once upon a time there was light in my life

Anya/Lalamon:
But now there's only love in the dark
Nothing I can say
A total eclipse of the heart

During the instrumental interlude, we return to the real world. Kari and T.K. look to each other and nod. Then, they go into their stances and chant, then hold hands as their free hands, each one marked with their crests, go back. After saying the attack's name, their feet take a hard step forth, and a golden energy ball appears before them. The duo then reaches out their palms, and the ball shoots out a healing beam at Anya. This attack is based off "Extreme Luminario" from Futari wa Pretty Cure Max Heart.

As we go back into Anya's "nightmare", a bright, golden light appears outside the multi-arched grand entrance. Anya runs towards the light, and there in the center of it, is Greg, looking like a very well dressed messenger from God. And there's a reason why most stations cut to the last round of "Turn around, bright eyes". In this case, it would be because, every now and then, Anya knows Greg will never be the boy he always wanted to be, but that he'll always be the only boy who wanted her the way that she is. She then goes on to claim "there's no one in the universe as magical and wondrous as you", and so on and so forth. All this time, Greg would still be telling Anya to "turn around". Bless your heart, Jim Steinman.

Anya:

(Greg: Turn around, bright eyes)
Every now and then I fall apart
(Greg: Turn around, bright eyes)
Every now and then I fall apart

Light beams shoot around the area, destroying the gloom and taking out the Troopmon. On top of that, rugby union players that look remarkably like the male members of The Teenage Wolves tackle some of them. It looks like a free for all out there.

Anya:

And I need you now tonight
(Lalamon/Kari/T.K.: And I need you) And I need you more than ever
And if you only hold me tight
(Lalamon/Kari/T.K.: If you only) We'll be holding on forever
And we'll only be making it right
(Lalamon/Kari/T.K.: And we'll never) 'Cause we'll never be wrong
Together we can take it to the end of the line
Your love is like a shadow on me all of the time
(Lalamon/Kari/T.K.: All of the time)
I don't know what to do
I'm always in the dark
We're living in a powder keg and giving off sparks
I really need you tonight
Forever's gonna start tonight
(Anya/Lalamon/Kari/T.K.: Forever's gonna start tonight)

Once upon a time
I was falling in love

Anya/Lalamon:

But now I'm only falling apart
Nothing I can do
A total eclipse of the heart

The assault has worked as all the darkness is vanquished. Now, Anya just has to heal.

Anya:
Once upon a time there was light in my life

Anya/Lalamon:
But now there's only love in the dark
Nothing I can say
A total eclipse of the heart
A total eclipse of the heart
A total eclipse of the heart

At that point, in the real world, Anya breaks away from Dracmon's spell and does turn around to find Greg. The two embrace and Greg proceeds to give Anya one of the most passionate kisses he's ever given anyone. Rory Dodd, who originally sang Greg's part, comes back in and concludes the song. Ren is disgusted.

Rory Dodd: (VO)
Turn around, bright eyes
Turn around, bright eyes
Turn around

Lalamon looks exhausted as she slowly droops to the ground as the song fades.

Anya

After breaking out of the lip lock, I faced Greg. "Thank you so much, Gregorivich. That meant so much to me." "Don't thank me, it was Lalamon's idea. T.K. and Kari helped out too." I looked back, and there they were, waving eagerly.

Ren looked visibly disgusted. I smirked at him. "What's the matter? Are you debuffed?" "Ha ha, very funny. Your friends came just in time to see me kill your partner!" "What makes you think that will happen?" MagnaAngemon asked from above. Ren just stared in awe at the three Ultimates behind him, but then gained a sick, but determined smile. "You don't scare me. Just watch what Dracmon and I can do. Ha!" He became covered in a dark purple aura. Then, he revealed his Digivice again. "Dark DigiSoul... Full, CHARGE!" He put his hand on top until it was absorbed, then thrust the Digivice forward.

A group of rings came over him. His body went red as he pulled off his mask and became a blue stuffed animal. That animal grew and became a whitish figure who flipped the mask and put it on, revealing his true form, a yaksha with two wooden swords. "Yasyamon!"

My patience was wearing extremely thin, but Ren kept going. "Now remember what you agreed to, Anya. Player versus player, single enemy. Your Digimon versus mine. No fair bringing in your friends into this." I entered into what they call Beast Mode. "Very well! Lalamon!" As I unclipped my Digivice, I felt my heart blossom as my entire body became covered in DigiSoul.

I brought both hands out in front of me, with my iC-equipped right hand below my extended left. "DigiSoul..." Then, I swung my left hand fully up to the sky. "Full... CHARGE!" Then, I brought it down on the scanner and thrust my Digivice forward so Lalamon could receive the energy.

"Lalamon Warp Digivolve to..." Lalamon Digivolved to Sunflowmon, but then went one step further as she became the female personification of a lilac. "Lilamon!"

Greg

I looked her up on the Digimon Analyzer. "'Lilamon, an Ultimate-level Fairy Digimon whose name and design are derived from the lilac. She is said to govern over death and rebirth. Her leaves are toxic, and are enough to kill the opponent.' Dang." Both Kari and T.K. looked rather winded from what they'd done, but at least they were still standing.

Yasyamon and Lilamon went toe to toe, and for a long time, I thought Yasyamon might have the advantage because of his wooden swords. He put up a good fight until Lilamon continuously slapped him with both of her extensible hands. Yasyamon became smitten with his opponent. "Way to go, Lilamon!" I cheered. AeroVeedramon roared in a cheer. "Finish him!" Anya ordered. "Marvel Shot!" Lilamon discharged iridescent energy spheres from the flowers on both of her arms. Yasyamon never saw it coming and reverted back to a DigiEgg.

Ren was astonished. "Yasyamon got nuked! You're a player killer!" He absorbed the DigiEgg with his Digivice. "I just got pwned! Bye now!" And with that, he ran off.

Kari was still bent over with her hands on her knees, catching her breath. "Did he... want to be saved?" she panted. "I do not think so, Kari. That boy was a creep, plain and simple," Anya answered. I put my arm around my girlfriend's shoulder. "Come on, bright eyes. Let's go back to the hotel." The Digimon powered down, and we put them back in their Digivices as we went home.

Rika

I read the patient information for NuvaRing, and one of the side effects was less sexual desire. That was certainly true for me. Ever since I put the ring in my vagina, I was eager to keep Marcus out of it. It wasn't just because it wouldn't be effective for the first week. I guess you could say it gave me mental clarity. I could think straight about whether or not I actually loved him. I had to find the perfect time to tell him, and it couldn't be in the bedroom.

In the Bagra Army Base, Lord Bagra watches Ren run away. "The coward. Running away at the end of the battle," he scoffs. "Indeed. That's an incredible sign of bad form," Tactimon comments. "We must not make the same mistake again."

[DATS Instant Replay]

Kari and T.K. look to each other and nod. Then, they go into their stances. T.K. starts. "With the power of hope burning bright..." "And with our souls filled with the will of light..." Kari continues. The two finish it together. "We'll rescue your heart from the raging night!" They hold hands as they pull their free hands, each one marked with their crests, back. "Double... Soul... Therapy!" Their feet take a hard step forth, and a golden energy ball appears before them. The duo then reaches out their palms, and the ball shoots out a healing beam at Anya.

Author's Notes:

The title of this chapter, "Des Voitures à Vivre" translates to "Cars to Live", and was an actual slogan used by Renault in the 1980s.

Mindi Abair is an American saxophonist and vocalist with a strong Top-40 pop music background. Mindi has toured and/or recorded with the Backstreet Boys, Duran Duran, Mandy Moore, Josh Groban, Adam Sandler, Keb' Mo', Lalah Hathaway, Lee Ritenour, Teena Marie, John Tesh, Bobby Lyle, Jonathan Butler, Peter White and Rick Braun. Overall, I think a fine choice for saxophonist.

Rika and Marcus have a lot of things to work out. Hopefully, they'll work out in the next chapter.