Chapter 12: Captive, but Not So Captive
The transfer of Ophanimon to Hell's Field was simple. She remained unconscious for most of the journey, offering no resistance. The only complication was the long distance between the lady's castle and Apollomon's abode.
When the other Olympians departed, Apollomon opened the large underground door leading to the area. Carrying Ophanimon over his shoulders, he took her downstairs and waited until she woke up. He wanted to address all her questions and be kind, despite how rough he had been in battle.
Upon regaining consciousness, Ophanimon looked around. The first thing she saw was Apollomon sitting next to her. Then, the desolate landscape caught her attention. The ground, rough and hard, had a dark brown, almost black colour, indicative of volcanic soil. In the distance, a few volcanoes formed a perfect line.
"Are we in Hell's Field?" she asked, quickly putting the pieces together.
"Indeed," Apollomon replied. "I knew you would recognize this place even though you had never been here."
The confirmation made her skin crawl. In the past, during the Olympians' rule, the most dangerous criminals were sent here. Now, that role was occupied by Cherubimon's Castle.
"Don't worry," Apollomon said, extending his hand to her. "There are no prisoners left here. They were sent to Cherubimon's Castle or died in the traps of this place."
"Traps," Ophanimon thought. "So what they say about this place is true."
A rumour had circulated for some time: there were deadly traps for prisoners here, and no one ever returned alive. However, it had never been confirmed.
A shadow quickly passed, momentarily covering the sky.
"It's just a floating platform," Apollomon explained. "They are traps designed to prevent any prisoner from taking flight and reaching the ceiling, which connects to the ground of my castle. There are many and of various types, but they won't be dangerous for you. Well, as long as you don't fly..."
Ophanimon tried to process all the information and make sense of it:
"I was defeated in my palace and transported here unconscious. I just woke up, and Apollomon is with me. It's likely that the rest of the Olympians have left. Fortunately, Apollomon doesn't seem inclined to harm me."
"I know this place is not worthy of your legacy, Ophanimon," he said, embarrassed. "But it's all we have."
"So, are you going to keep me here?"
"Not exactly. Although the agreement in the meeting was to leave you here in Hell's Field until further notice..." the god began to say.
"So the Olympians have had a meeting..." Ophanimon thought.
"I have reached another agreement with Venusmon," Apollomon concluded.
"What kind of agreement?" Ophanimon asked, interested. It seemed like good news amid the bad situation.
"You will stay in one of the rooms in my palace, where you will be properly attended to. However, you are strictly forbidden from leaving Bright Zone. Also, when the Olympians come to visit, you will return to Hell's Field for a while, as if you had been held here the entire time."
"Thank you very much, Apollomon," said Ophanimon. She would have liked to hit him and escape, but she knew she wasn't in a position to do so. Besides, she was aware that Apollomon was risking a lot with this deal, all for her and his beloved Venusmon.
Ophanimon wondered what kind of relationship Apollomon and Venusmon had. It was known that Venusmon had had numerous lovers throughout history, but now that the Olympians had left power, the gossip had dwindled until it disappeared. What had motivated Venusmon to intercede for her? After all, she was only exposing herself to danger if discovered, without gaining anything in return. At least, Ophanimon believed the goddess wouldn't gain any benefit.
"It's best if you come with me and we go up to my castle," said Apollomon, resuming the conversation. "I warn you," he continued, "there are many stairs."
Then, a chuckle escaped him. Apollomon was pleased, though Ophanimon couldn't fathom why. Perhaps the recent victory had lifted his spirits.
Indeed, as Apollomon had said, there were many stairs. Before them rose over a thousand steps, leading up to the ceiling.
"We'd better start climbing," said the Olympian.
Ophanimon nodded silently. The stairs were quite narrow, so Apollomon began to ascend first, with Ophanimon following. The atmosphere in Hell's Field was heavy, laden with a sense of latent danger, but Apollomon's presence gave her some security.
As they ascended, the platforms became more visible: each one different and horrible in its own way. Various constructions rose from them: large lava fountains, metallic buildings bristling with sharp edges, bottomless pits... Each one drawing you in with greater force as you approached.
"Don't worry, from here they won't catch you," said Apollomon, reading her thoughts.
"I'm glad to hear that," replied Ophanimon, though she couldn't help but wonder how the prisoners had survived there. Fearing a gruesome tale, she decided not to ask.
"It's understandable that you feel uncomfortable here," Apollomon said as they walked. "But you should know this place used to be a training ground for the strongest warriors before it became a prison. Here, they faced their greatest fears and surpassed their limits."
"And did you train here?" asked Ophanimon, trying to distract herself from the surroundings.
"Yes, a long time ago. This place helped me become who I am today."
After a long ascent, the stairs finally reached the ceiling. Above it was a huge red lacquered door, inscribed with various archaic symbols arranged in no apparent order.
Apollomon placed his claw against the door. He let his energy flow, and the symbols lit up. Ophanimon supposed it must be a defence mechanism: only Apollomon could open that door. He looked at her and made a slight gesture, inviting her to enter his castle. She had never been there before, so she had no idea what the interior would be like.
At that moment, Ophanimon found herself in a large foyer, with stone walls similar to the exterior of the castle and a floor covered by a large, exquisitely tasteful red carpet. Ophanimon thought that Venusmon might have chosen it, though it was just a guess. The room connected to other areas through a grand staircase leading to the upper floor and to the outside via a colossal portico, designed similarly to the door they had just passed through.
"Follow me," said the Olympian, as he began to walk up the stairs.
When they reached the upper floor, Ophanimon felt somewhat disappointed: there were only three rooms, along with another exit to the outside in the form of a balcony, which Apollomon didn't bother to show her.
"I suppose, after all, the Olympians didn't have much left when they abandoned the government..." Ophanimon thought.
"Welcome to my home," said Apollomon with a smile. "It's not as luxurious as your palace, but I hope you feel comfortable."
Ophanimon observed the details around her, trying to hide her curiosity. Although austere, the place had a somber beauty and a palpable energy.
"Thank you for the hospitality," she replied, maintaining a neutral tone.
Apollomon guided her down a long hallway until they reached a carved wooden door.
"This will be your room," said Apollomon. "Here, you will be safe and have everything you need. If you need anything else, just ask me."
"I appreciate it very much, Apollomon," Ophanimon responded, sincerely grateful for the comfort in the midst of her captivity compared to the horrors that awaited her in the prison of Hell's Field. Besides, it was better to appear docile and kind, at least for now.
Opening the door revealed a spacious but sparsely furnished room. It had only a bed, a desk with a chair, and a small bookshelf containing just a couple of books. All the furniture was wooden, and the walls had a depressing dark brown colour that barely contrasted with the wood. The only notable feature was a large window that fully illuminated the room. However, the view was not spectacular: from the window, one could see the lava moat surrounding the castle and the desolate lands of Bright Zone, Apollomon's domain.
Ophanimon wondered where the inhabitants were. Despite most of the Olympians' subjects having left after their reign ended, there were always a few remaining in the area governed by their former lord. The loneliness of the place was palpable, and the silence, unsettling.
"I know it's not much... but it's better than Hell's Field, right?" said Apollomon, his voice reflecting a mix of apology and hope.
"Infinitely better, Apollomon, thank you very much," Ophanimon replied warmly, smiling at him. "Tell me, Apollomon... who else lives in Bright Zone?"
"Why do you ask? Does it matter?"
There was a hint of resentment in Apollomon's tone. He was trying to avoid the question; it pained him to talk about it. Despite this, Ophanimon continued:
"Nothing, just mere curiosity."
"The truth is, Bright Zone is not what it used to be... Now, only a few Flarelizarmon and Salamandemon live here, besides me..."
Apollomon grew deeply saddened as he spoke about the past. The truth was that he didn't care about the government, the vast territories, the glory, or the fame; he did all this to recover his subjects, his Digimon—those he loved and protected. But, of course, no one else knew that, or so he believed.
Ophanimon observed him with compassion, seeing the pain in his eyes. There was something deeper in Apollomon that she hadn't noticed before. Her image of a stern and powerful leader was fading, revealing someone who had suffered losses and bore a great weight on his shoulders.
"I'm sorry to hear that, Apollomon," she said softly. "I know how important it is for you to protect your own. It's admirable."
Apollomon looked at her, surprised by the sincerity in her voice. He wasn't used to someone understanding his motivations so clearly.
"Thank you, Ophanimon. Sometimes I wonder if all this effort is worth it... if we will ever be what we once were."
"I'm sure you will," she responded with determination. "Hope should never be lost, Apollomon. And as long as you keep believing in it, there will always be a possibility."
Apollomon nodded slowly, appreciating her words. He remained silent for a moment, lost in thought, before shaking his head and changing the subject.
"I need to inform you that you will have a visitor later," said Apollomon, breaking the silence that filled the room.
"A visitor?" Ophanimon wondered, puzzled. Being a captive, she didn't expect any kind of visit, and if it were one of the Olympians, she would have to return temporarily to Hell's Field. Then she realized who it might be.
"Venusmon will come to see you in a while."
"Is she already here?"
"No. But she won't take long to arrive," responded the Olympian. "I'll let you know when she gets here. If you need anything, my room is next door. Once you meet with Venusmon, you will be allowed to move around the entire castle. However, obviously, if you wish to leave the castle, you must ask my permission first and let me accompany you."
He then bid her farewell and locked the door, leaving her alone in the room. Ophanimon stood there, contemplating what had just happened. She had seen a side of Apollomon that few knew, one that revealed his vulnerability and his true desire to care for his own.
She approached the window, once again observing the desolate landscape of Bright Zone. Now, those lands seemed a bit less hostile. The solitude of the place made sense as she understood the sacrifice and sadness that Apollomon carried.
Determined not to be overcome by despair, Ophanimon decided to explore the books on the shelf. Opening one of the ancient tomes, she discovered tales of old battles and the history of the Olympians. She immersed herself in the reading, seeking not just distraction but also knowledge that might be useful in the future.
Time passed slowly as she read, but the room, though simple, felt more welcoming with each page she turned. Sunlight streamed through the window, bathing the room in a warmth that contrasted with the cold stone walls. For the first time in a long while, Ophanimon felt a spark of hope. Though in captivity, she was not alone in her struggle, and she knew she had to stay strong and prepared for whatever came next.
Soon after, she heard a soft knock on the door. Looking up, she saw Apollomon peeking in with a smile.
"Venusmon is here," he announced. "Are you ready to see her?"
Ophanimon closed the book and stood up, trying to ready her mind for the encounter. Venusmon had always been an enigmatic figure to her, and now more than ever, she wanted to understand her motives.
"Yes, I'm ready."
Apollomon nodded and opened the door wide, allowing Venusmon to enter. The elegance and serenity that Venusmon exuded were palpable. Her eyes met Ophanimon's, and a gentle smile appeared on her face.
Venusmon presented herself with unmatched grace. The goddess looked impeccable. Her face was a masterpiece of perfection, framed by blonde hair styled in an ornate and spectacular bun. Her attire, a blend between a dancer's outfit and a gala dress for the most important of events, was a pure white that highlighted her skin tone. Despite the effort it might take to achieve such an appearance, on Venusmon, it seemed natural.
"Good morning," said the goddess, while examining Ophanimon with a critical yet gentle look.
Venusmon had expected to find Ophanimon devastated both physically and psychologically after the battle. However, the image before her surprised her. Although Ophanimon wasn't as radiant as usual, she looked well. There were only a few gaps in her armor, and her shield showed just a few scratches and slight dents.
"Good morning," Ophanimon responded politely.
She was eager to ask the reason for such a great favour, but her experience told her to wait for Venusmon to open up and provide the answer. Until then, she would resist the temptation to ask.
"Don't worry. Apollomon is a trustworthy Digimon. With him, you'll be in good hands."
Ophanimon nodded, now more certain of this than ever. She couldn't argue with that.
"I know," she replied, striving to keep her voice firm yet calm.
"I don't think this will last too long," said Venusmon, crossing her arms with a thoughtful expression. "Besides, we don't intend to hurt anyone. I believe Mercurymon just wants us to reclaim our position in the government."
"Are you sure that's what Mercurymon wants?" Ophanimon asked. She suspected there were ulterior motives.
"To be honest, I don't know. The idea, as you might guess, came from Mercurymon. He says he's doing this to restore the honour of the Olympians, our privileges…"
"But…" Ophanimon interrupted. She expected some terrible confirmation.
"But everyone fights for what they want. I can assure you that each Olympian has different reasons to fight: glory, fame, power, territory, general ambition, are the most common. Some have deeper motives…"
"Like who?" Ophanimon asked. What Venusmon had just said was fairly obvious; however, the last sentence... that revelation intrigued her greatly.
"Perhaps Apollomon is the closest example. Although he tries to seem tough in front of the other Olympians, he's actually very sensitive…"
"And that's what you like about him?" Ophanimon thought, but she simply replied:
"I know."
"Well, he believes that strength is meant to protect Digimon. He wants to regain his subjects, he wants Bright Zone to be a paradise for them again. Or something like that. I wouldn't know exactly how to explain it, but I suppose you get the idea of what I'm trying to say."
Ophanimon could never have imagined that those were Apollomon's intentions. They were very noble, although in her opinion, he was not using the right methods. And considering how he was treating her, he must be one of the more "moderate" ones among the Olympians.
"It's an admirable motivation," Ophanimon admitted. "But does he really think this is the best way to achieve it?"
Venusmon sighed, her gaze turning to the window, observing the desolate landscape of Bright Zone.
"Apollomon doesn't always choose the most sensible methods. He's desperate to regain what he's lost. Sometimes, desperation leads us down dark paths."
Ophanimon nodded, understanding the depth of those words. Desperation was a double-edged sword, capable of inspiring both the greatest nobility and the most reckless acts.
The angel reflected on what she had just been told. Among the motives Venusmon had cited, the goddess herself didn't seem to fit any of them.
"Tell me, Venusmon... what are yours?" Ophanimon asked, hoping for a sincere answer.
Venusmon took a moment to reflect, her blue eyes fixed on Ophanimon. It was a question she had avoided asking herself for a long time.
"The truth is, I wouldn't know how to tell you... I never had vast territories to rule over, nor many subjects to protect... My role in the government was almost irrelevant: I only raised my hand in a few votes... I had influence in others' lives, but I still do, albeit to a lesser extent. Sometimes I miss being the centre of attention, hosting grand gatherings, and all that. But I've adapted to life on my small island... and for me, that's almost enough."
"Then why do you support the revolution?" Ophanimon asked, confused. Everything Venusmon had said made sense, but her words plunged her into a spiral of confusion she couldn't escape... "Almost enough…" she repeated to herself. What more could the goddess want? Could she be lying?
"We Olympians are a very ancient group. And above all, we support each other, at least most of the time... Besides, you could say I've been caught up in the excitement of the others. Seeing the rest so enthusiastic, leaving behind the previous dishonour... it was something I hadn't appreciated for a long time. It's like... like everything is starting anew."
"Not all beginnings are good," Ophanimon responded calmly. "Especially second parts..." she thought to herself.
"It's nothing personal..." Venusmon continued sincerely. "You're just a small bump in our road."
Ophanimon responded with a nod, assimilating Venusmon's words. The situation was more complex than she had imagined, and uncertainty about the future lingered in her mind.
The angel immersed herself in a sea of thoughts after Venusmon's words. In the end, she couldn't resist any longer and asked with a mixture of curiosity and bewilderment:
"Venusmon, why have you intervened on my behalf?"
Venusmon responded with a certainty that resonated in the room:
"Because you are like me."
Ophanimon was taken aback by the statement. She had been analyzing every word from Venusmon and had perceived certain similarities, but she wasn't ready to accept that comparison so easily.
"Think about it carefully," Venusmon continued, sensing Ophanimon's confusion and knowing she had reached the crucial point of the conversation. "I consider you a young, beautiful, strong, brave digimon... with character, like me. And as I mentioned before, I have barely participated in the government of the Digital World. I have no qualms admitting it. You... you are among the Three Great Angels, but what is your true role there?" She paused for a moment, but Ophanimon was too stunned to respond. "I'll tell you: you are the mediator between Seraphimon and Cherubimon. They say you represent harmony, unity among Digimon. Don't love and harmony go hand in hand?"
Ophanimon responded with a nod, assimilating Venusmon's words. The similarities she had perceived before were beginning to solidify into certainties in her mind. As Venusmon continued, Ophanimon reflected on her own role and her connection with the goddess's words.
"Don't be saddened," Venusmon continued with a tone that was understanding yet ironic. "I know the truth can be harsher than lies. Sometimes, it's better not to see certain things, but I tell you this so you can become aware of who you are."
Ophanimon fell silent, processing everything she had just heard. Venusmon's words echoed within her, challenging her to acknowledge the truth she had been avoiding.
"I think I have nothing more to say to you," Venusmon concluded, allowing room for Ophanimon to reflect on her own.
The room fell into a tense silence as Ophanimon struggled to accept what she had just discovered about herself and the unexpected connection she shared with Venusmon.
Visibly affected by Venusmon's words, Ophanimon broke the tense silence that had settled in the room.
"Thank you very much for everything, Venusmon. Thank you for the room," the angel said with a choked voice, trying to contain the emotion that threatened to overwhelm her.
Venusmon paused by the door, her imposing figure filling the room with a blend of elegance and solemnity.
"You owe me much more than just this room, Ophanimon," Venusmon responded calmly, but with a firmness that made it clear her words carried significant weight. "Reflect on everything I've told you. You will receive many visits from me."
With these final words, Venusmon left the room, leaving Ophanimon deep in thought. The goddess's last words echoed in her mind like a persistent echo. She couldn't ignore Venusmon's implication; there was something deeper in their relationship, something Ophanimon had only just begun to comprehend.
Tears began to well up in Ophanimon's eyes as she lay back on the pillow. The weight of what had been revealed and the uncertainty about the future overwhelmed her. She cried inconsolably, allowing her emotions to release in quiet sobs that filled the room with palpable sadness.
Time seemed to stand still as Ophanimon allowed herself to experience the pain and confusion that washed over her. She felt vulnerable, stripped of the security that had once characterized her. Yet, amidst the emotional storm, a silent determination began to grow within her.
She decided to heed Venusmon's advice and deeply reflect on what she had just learned. There was more at stake than she had imagined, and understanding it was crucial for her future and the decisions she would have to make.
The sun continued to shine through the window, but now the room was illuminated not only by the daylight but also by a newfound understanding that was beginning to take root in Ophanimon's heart.