Digimon Fan Fiction ❯ The Outcast ❯ Hidden Demon ( Chapter 10 )

The Outcast

Chapter 10: Hidden Demon

by Silver

*Not-Too-Standard Disclaimer: I do not own Digimon's creatures, characters, or storyline. Though after watching the end of 02, I think they should've hired me to write it.*

Author's Note: Yes, my disclaimer is pretty arrogant, but what can I say? I was bored with writing the usual disclaimer.

Before beginning this chapter, I believe there is something I should clarify. I'm not sure how many Digimon fans are aware of this, but Dragomon is actually based on a work of fiction by H.P. Lovecraft. "The Call of the Cthulu" is the story of people who stumble upon a legend about a monster under the sea. It's a bit of complex reading, but the story served as inspiration for Dragomon, who was based on the Cthulu and named for Dagon, another of Lovecraft's creations. Knowing this, I've tried to at least loosely base Dragomon and his servants on Lovecraft's writings. I recommend that people try to read Lovecraft's work. It might help inspire a story involving Dragomon; I know it helped me.

Thanks go once again to my beta read Daisukefire. And thanks also go to my readers and my reviewers. I appreciate you taking the time to read my works.

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"Their forms vaguely suggested the anthropoid, while their heads were the heads of fish, with prodigious bulging eyes that never closed…their croaked, baying voices…held all the dark shades of expression which their staring faces lacked."

- A quote from "The Shadow over Innsmouth" by H.P Lovecraft

The hot saké warmed the back of Tai's throat as he slowly sipped it. He and his friends were enjoying a quiet corner of a local bar, catching up with each other for the first time in months. Matt, Sora, Izzy, and Mimi were enjoying similar drinks. Joe, the self-proclaimed designated driver, was the only one having water.

Tai felt happy and carefree, a rare pleasure given all that had happened. His sister had recovered, and public opinion polls showed that people were losing interest in Kari's situation. She hadn't made the front page in a while, and that meant people had nothing to maintain their fascination. Still, that was a far cry from having people actually accept her as a normal person again.

Tai also felt better for having his friends nearby. Life had changed so much when they'd all gone off to college. They could no longer gather in the park near the old trolley car that had taken them home after their first adventure in the Digital World. He'd feared that the group would drift apart, but they hadn't allowed that to happen.

Tai's blissful ease was somewhat shaken when he saw Sora gulp down her glass of saké in one swig. "Sora! When did you learn to drink like that?"

Sora grinned with a slight blush on her face, "It's a gift, I guess."

Matt laughed, "You should have seen Sora during our first party at college. She out drank every man in the room."

Sora rubbed her forehead. "And paid for it the next day. My head felt like it'd been a stage for a tap dancing Machinedramon."

Joe sighed, "That's why I don't go to college parties. People don't think you can have a good time unless you get drunk. It's a complete waste if you ask me."

Izzy nodded, "It's a proven fact that alcohol destroys brain cells. Given this information, I would say that getting drunk would do more harm in the long run, despite short-term pleasure."

"I wasn't drunk!" Sora protested. "I was just… light headed." The others laughed.

"So," Mimi grinned at Tai, "think Davis and Kari have reconciled?" Everyone had seen the quarrel brewing between the two back at the research center. They'd also seen how riled Tai became when he saw them walk off together. Tai had developed a notorious reputation for scaring away Kari's boyfriends.

Tai did his best to keep a straight face and shrugged, "Who knows? Davis isn't very good at apologies."

Matt added, "Because he doesn't usually think he's wrong." Everyone grinned and nodded.

Sora leaned back, "Still, I think he and Kari will work things out. Kari was certainly upset enough to show that Davis has a big influence on her."

Mimi said, "If someone had told me seven years ago that those two would grow so close, I probably would have told that person to get a clue."

Matt nodded, "Just goes to show how much they've changed. If there's one good thing to come out of this whole mess, it's that we've seen how good a friend Davis can be. We might not even be here if he hadn't called us."

Tai said, "Yeah, he's a good guy. I'm pretty sure he'll pull through for Kari."

Sora blinked, "What's this? Has Tai Kamiya finally grown to like one of Kari's boyfriends?"

Tai grimaced. "First off, Davis isn't Kari's boyfriend yet. Second, I've always liked Davis. Remember how he used to idolize me? How could I not like him for that?"

Joe rolled his eyes, "What a modest opinion."

Tai laughed, "But I'm afraid our friendship's over as soon as he tries to kiss my little sister. After that, he becomes public enemy number one for me." The others sighed.

Joe said, "I still can't believe Davis used a crest to beat that… whatever it was. That thing that tried to take Kari."

Mimi nodded, "I didn't know he could even use the crest of light."

"He can't." Izzy took a sip of his drink. "It's fundamentally impossible for Davis to be able to control the crest of light. That power has only manifested in Kari."

"So," Matt asked, "just how could he make the crest glow?"

"My theory is that Davis' emotions focused through the crest, which was already reacting to Kari's presence. It served as a link between him and Kari, thus enabling him to pull her back into our world. Lucky for us."

Tai nodded, "Who'd a thought we'd actually be grateful that Myotismon made those stupid things? If he hadn't copied the crest of light, we might have lost Kari." He paused. "But there's something else we should be talking about, besides crests and Kari's dating life." He added that last part with an irritable tone. "I think it's time we took the offensive against the G.O.D."

Izzy asked, "What do you mean?"

"So far, we've been reacting to the G.O.D.'s accusations against Kari and Digimon. We've put Kari under protective custody and tried to find evidence to disprove the G.O.D.'s claims that Digimon are causing her glowing. They've used Kari's glowing to turn people against having Digimon live alongside humans, and we haven't spoken out against them once. The G.O.D.'s been in almost complete control of the situation."

"Up until now, that is." Said Joe. "The G.O.D. lost a lot of support after the latest scandal. One of the board members was arrested for vandalism, conspiracy, and even terrorism. Rumors say that Hitoshi Ikari also quit the organization."

Tai blinked, "Really?"

Joe sighed, "Honestly, Tai. How do you expect to be an ambassador when you can't even keep track of the news?"

Tai fumed, "I've been busy with Kari! Besides, I know lots about being an ambassador. One of the most important lessons I learned is that how a message is presented is just as important as the message itself."

Mimi said, "Like what?"

Tai explained, "Let's say that the G.O.D. or Hitoshi Ikari wants to drum up anti-Digimon sentiments again. If they told the nation how Muri Ikari was recovering from Kari's supposed attack on him, people would once again see Kari as a threat. Then it would be very easy for G.O.D. to start causing trouble for Digimon again. But if we make the first move and have Kari address the nation about her powers, then the Guardians will have to react to us. They'll also lose support when they learn that it was Muri who tried to hurt Kari."

Matt frowned, "Are you sure it'd be a good idea to bring up Kari's powers again? People might be afraid."

Tai replied, "We can't keep her hidden away forever. If we do this now while the public's not all worked up, we'll have a better chance of gaining support. I think it's time that Kari made a public appearance."

* * * * * * * *

Headaches were a common presence in Dr. Kure's life. If it wasn't stress from the job or pressure from the medical board or demands from his family to spend more time with them, something else would cause him grief. In this particular case, his headache could be traced back to Muri Ikari.

Try as he might, Kure couldn't figure out what was wrong with the boy. He showed all the signs of schizophrenia: paranoia, unresponsiveness, reactions to non-existent stimuli; but there was no indication of a chemical imbalance in his brain or any other biological factors. If anything, the instruments design to test this sort of thing weren't able to even take Muri's readings. CAT scans and PET images always seemed to be distorted and produced images that looked nothing like a human being. It was as if Muri Ikari wasn't human in the traditional sense.

As ridiculous as that sounded, it was the only semi-accurate description. He looked, sounded, and even acted human, but his body seemed unreadable to even the most advanced technology. The only explanation could be that Muri wasn't really human, but that was preposterous.

Kure's head throbbed as he scanned over Muri's records. They were scheduled to begin drug treatments today. The only question was, how to make Muri take the medication? He wouldn't look at or speak to anyone, even his parents. The only name that ever got a response out of him was Kari Kamiya, and that only sent him into violent fits. Kure still couldn't figure out what the infamous "Glow Girl" had done to him, or what had prompted such an innocent-looking girl to attack this boy.

How could such a girl be so dangerous? The notion that a teenager had such power was ludicrous, and yet the proof of her power lay huddled inside Muri's room. To think that a person could be so horribly scarred by light. The wounds to Muri's mind were so sever, Kure doubted the boy would ever heal. Whoever this Kari Kamiya was, Kure feared she was a great threat to the rest of the world.

Dr. Kure opened the door to Muri's room. "Hello, Muri. How are you feeling today?" He knew he wouldn't get a response, but it never hurt to try.

"Hello, Doctor." Kure's head snapped up from his notes and he stared wide-eyed into Muri's face. Muri was sitting on his bed, cross-legged and looking very relaxed, and smiling. "I'm happy to say I'm feeling much better." The headache eased, just slightly.

* * * * * * * *

Davis and Kari browsed through all the various DVDs that Mr. Takenouchi had appropriated. He'd given them an over-abundance of choices for their first official date. Both of them joked that if anyone ever wrote a book on the most bizarre dates of all time, they'd be one of the first dates mentioned. Normally, the word "date" didn't conjure up images of watching a movie inside a patient room that rested within a facility designed to research creatures from another dimension.

Davis picked up one title. "This looks good." It was a western from America.

Kari frowned, "That's Michael's father. Didn't you meet him once?"

Davis nodded, "Yep. He gave me an' Veemon a lift in his personal plane on our way to New York."

"Sounds exciting."

"Only after my stomach settled down. Michael's dad is a great actor, but he's got a lot to learn when it comes to flying."

Kari grinned and elbowed him lightly, "You planning on being a flight instructor?"

Davis shrugged, "Naw, but XV-mon could fly rings around anyone!" He sighed, "I wonder how Veemon's doing. Probably paling around with Gatomon and the others."

Kari smiled faintly. "I'm sure they're doing well. Gatomon isn't the type to wallow, and the others will keep them busy." She quickly picked up another DVD box. "I want to watch this one."

Davis grimaced. A romance…great. "You sure?"

Kari nodded, "Unless you have another selection. I really don't like westerns."

Davis huffed, "Well, I don't really go for romances either, but I'm willing to watch… mostly. Can't promise I won't fall asleep."

Kari held out a fist. "I'll rock-paper-scissors you for it. If I win, I choose the movie; if you win, you choose."

Davis frowned, "But you always win in rock-paper-scissors! I used to be the school champ before you came along." Kari just grinned and held up her hand. Davis sighed and held up his fist to hers.

"1, 2, 3!" Kari's rock shattered Davis' scissors, and he braced himself for two hours of sappy couples fawning over each other.

"Let's watch this instead." Kari held up a cover to a Sci-Fi film.

Davis blinked, "You don't wanna watch the romance?"

"Not really. I think romance movies are too overdone. I just suggested that other movie because I wanted to see how you'd react. Plus, it's always fun to beat you at rock-paper-scissors." She grinned.

"Wait, you were testing me?"

Kari nodded, "I don't mean to deceive you, Davis, but I sometimes like to test people to see how they act in a relationship.

"So… did I pass?"

"You mean, did you behave appropriately?"

Davis shrugged, "I guess. I don't get why you wanted to watch a movie you don't like."

Kari smiled, "I wanted to see how you'd react to something I liked but you didn't. I'm glad you were willing to watch something you don't like for my sake, but you didn't cave into my demands either. I like that."

"Really?"

"Yeah. I've dated a lot of boys who either told me what we were going to do or suffered through my every interest. Even though we were doing something I enjoyed, I knew that my date wasn't having fun, which really spoiled the event. It was even more frustrating that they didn't tell me they weren't having fun. It's very hard to find someone who's willing to compromise; most people either try to control or act completely dependent. I'm glad you're not like that."

Davis beamed, "Well, I am one of a kind."

The movie might have freaked some people out with its bizarre creatures who threatened the lives of the protagonists, but for two Digidestined the movie was pretty dull. Seeing someone else being chased by a monster was far less thrilling than being the prey oneself.

Less than halfway through the show, Kari leaned her head on Davis' shoulder. Less than a few minutes later, her eyes were shut and her breathing was deep and rhythmic. Davis grinned and slowly wrapped his arm around her, drawing her closer. He should have realized she wouldn't be able to keep awake during the night. Between struggling for her life against the Dark Ocean, enduring the spurn of society, and riding the emotional torrent of a new boyfriend, Kari had to be exhausted. Davis reached over and used the remote the shut the movie off. It'd been boring anyway.

They leaned against the wall in darkness for what seemed like a blissful eternity. Kari's body was warm and soft. Her now shoulder-length hair tickled against Davis' neck. Even in the dimness of the room, he could see how beautiful she was, and how well defined her lips were. He would have reached down to kiss her, but that would have wakened her.

Davis tried to decide what to do. He hated the idea of leaving the rapture of Kari's company, but if her parents caught them asleep while holding on to one another, heads would role. His head, to be exact.

"Having a good night?" A sharp voice whispered in his ear. Davis jumped, causing Kari to stir, but she resumed her slumber after a short beat. Kari's mother sat next to Davis, half hidden by the darkness. Davis had been so focused on Kari that he hadn't noticed her come in.

Davis grinned nervously, "Uh… hi." He waited for her to order him to remove his hand from Kari and to rush him out of the room, but she just sat there, watching them. Davis kept his arm wrapped around Kari, not willing to break away until forced to do so.

Mrs. Kamiya sighed, "Davis, I'm going to be brutally honest with you. You're not the person I'd want Kari to be with. You're reckless, impulsive, unstable, and you attract trouble. You don't understand how frail my daughter can be. She used to get sick all the time when she was young. She was sicker than any other child I'd ever known. And she's too kind for this world to tolerate. Some days I fear that she'll be ripped apart by people and societies that use kind hearts for selfish ends." Davis sat in silence, not sure how to respond.

Kari's mother continued, "But, for some reason, Kari seems to have become attracted to you. As much as I wish I could guide her in all of life's choices, I know I can't. That's why I'm not going to pick you up and toss you out a window right now. I hope that you can be a positive part of Kari's life; and I hope that someday you'll prove me wrong for thinking you're a dangerous factor. So, I'm going to give you the benefit of the doubt, but you have to promise me that you'll take care of my daughter, no matter what happens."

"I will." Davis nodded. "But Kari's a lot stronger than you think. I know she gets kinda sick sometimes; but she's really brave and keeps going, now matter how hard things get. Most girls I know would have cracked under everything that's happening right now. Kari hangs in there, even though a lot of this is pretty scary."

"Scary?" Mrs. Kamiya arched an eyebrow. "Strange. You always try to come across as the fearless type. Are you scared by what's going on?"

Davis replied, "Sometimes… It's not like I'm wettin' my pants over this, but I worry about what's going to happen to Kari. I know this stuff's bigger than me, but I want to do something about it."

Mrs. Kamiya nodded, "Good. You'll get your chance. Tai proposed that Kari address the nation - and even the world - about her powers. That means she'll have to deal with the questions, accusations, and fears of countless strangers. She'll need your support; and that's another reason I won't get mad for finding you two in this position."

"She just fell asleep on my shoulder! It's not like we were-"

"Don't finish that sentence."

"Right. Sorry."

Mrs. Kamiya said, "I'm going downstairs. I'll give you ten minutes to wish Kari goodnight and help her to sleep before I come back and do it for you."

Davis agreed and Mrs. Kamiya left the room. First Tai, now Kari's mom. What was it about the Kamiyas that caused them to physically threaten a guy who was attracted to Kari? Whole family needs a restraining order. He gently nudged Kari. "Hey, Kari, wake up."

"Hmm?" Kari's eyes fluttered open. "Did I fall asleep?"

Davis grinned, "Like a rock."

Kari leaned up, "Sorry. Is the movie over?"

"No, but I gotta get going. I'm… under a time limit."

"My mother was here, wasn't she?"

"How'd you guess?"

Kari sighed, "My mother has always been overprotective of me. She always gets nervous when I start seeing a boy on a regular basis. I think she passed on some kind of paranoia gene to Tai."

Davis laughed. "Well, I gotta get going, and you better sleep. I heard that Tai has a big announcement planned."

"Really? What?"

"Can't say yet. It'd spoil the surprise."

They stood up and moved to the door. Kari said, "Thank you for tonight, Davis. I had a great time."

"Even though you slept through half of it?"

Kari giggled, "Yes. I'm happy I was comfortable enough to do that."

"Me too." Davis leaned down and slowly kissed her on the lips. "I'm happy I got to be with you."

Kari smile sent a charge through his entire body. But his joy faded as Kari's skin began to shine. Her body began to glow until its light filled the entire room. "Kari, what's wrong?"

"… Nothing." Kari's smile still shown brighter than her body. "I… I'm happy. Happier than I've been in a long time. I guess my powers are finally reacting too."

Davis blinked in the glare. "Glad to see you can glow when you're feeling happy too. 'Course, if this keeps happening, I'm gonna have to start wearing shades and sunscreen on our dates."

* * * * * * * *

By the following evening, Tai had convinced everyone to go along with his plan. Kari agreed all too readily. She was tired of being confined in small houses and rooms. Everyone could see how excited she was about finally taking steps to enlighten people about her powers. Mr. Takenouchi was also pleased to report that he'd managed to tape two events of Kari's powers manifesting themselves. Once when she forced the Dark Ocean away, and again after her date with Davis. Now all that remained was to deliver a challenge to Hitoshi Ikari.

* * * * * * * *

For the first time in what felt like the whole of creation, Hitoshi Ikari felt elated. All his troubles had melted away the instant he had received the phone call. The Guardians didn't matter, the Digimon didn't matter; the whole worried ceased to be a concern as his son made his way home.

The doctors still couldn't understand what had caused the miracle recovery, but Hitoshi understood. God had returned Hitoshi's son to him. After all the suffering and loss, there was finally jubilation.

The Ikari's were waiting at their home. Muri had insisted they wait for him there rather than coming to the hospital. The doctors said he was responding well and had resumed eating. He still couldn't stand bright light, and so he was coming home in the dim of the evening.

Koishii was even more excited than Hitoshi. She couldn't say in one spot for more than a second. She moved from the family room to the kitchen and back again, straightening anything she decreed out of order and making sure the house looked exactly as Muri remembered it.

The doorbell rang and Koushii pratcially flung herself at it. She opened the door and clutched her son. "Muri!! Welcome home."

"Hello, Mother." Muri smiled at her. "I missed you." Koishii shivered. Her expression weakened slightly as she stepped away from him. Hitoshi frowned. It wasn't like her to switch moods so quickly.

"Hello, Muri." He silently cursed himself for still not being able to embrace his son. It still felt too awkward.

"Father." Muri tossed him a hollow smile. Hitoshi nearly stepped back in surprise. His son had been passionate and energetic. Had his ordeal robbed him of his spirit? This person standing in the doorway felt nothing like the Muri he remembered. Hitoshi chided himself for holding such expectations. Muri had been through an ordeal. It was naïve to think he'd be completely normal again. The healing would take much longer; this was just a start.

Koishii said, "Let me make you some dinner. You must be starving for some home food."

Muri shook his head. "No, thank you. I'm feeling very tired. I think I'll go to bed early." He began to walk to the stairs without another word. He cringed slightly as he passed the lamp on a stand, and reached down to unplug it. Muri's parents just stared at him as he walked upstairs and all the lights went off.

"That… that wasn't Muri."

"What do you mean, Koishii? That was most definitely our son."

"No. He-he looks like Muri and sounds like Muri. But he's so cold. I felt such a chill when I hugged him. It was like he was made out of ice." She paused, "More like he was made of ice water…"

"Don't worry about it, Koishii. He has just been through a difficult time. I'm sure he will begin to return to normal as he spends time with his friends and family. Just give it time." And yet Hitoshi couldn't help but feel the dampness of the air, and a chill running through his very soul.

Ding-dong! They both jumped as the tone of the doorbell cut through the eerie stillness. Hitoshi pressed his hand to his chest to steady his beating heart, then opened the door. A younger man with dark brown hair and a square shaped face offered him a customable smile. "Hello. My name is Musuku Motomiya."

Motomiya? That was the name of one of Muri's teammates at school. Muri had cursed the name on more than one occasion. "You're Davis' father."

"That's right. My son asked me to deliver a message to you. Kari Kamiya is going to address the nation in one week regarding her condition and the reasons behind it. You're welcome to speak with her on stage, provided that you do not comment on this talk beforehand. If you speak out against Kari at all before the talks, you can forget about appearing on stage." There was an edge to his voice that made Koishii step back from the door.

Hitoshi kept his voice under control. "You sound surprisingly hostile, Mr. Motomiya. Have I done something to offend you?"

"Kari Kamiya is a dear friend to my family. The way you've spoken about her condition and used her to your own advantage is criminal. I've spent a lot of time wondering what kind of monster you are to do something like that to a teenager, and I hope you burn under those stage-lights next week." He spun on his heel and walked away.

Hitoshi watched the man go, surprised by the cold rage in his voice. He… just didn't understand. Almost every just act in the past had been misjudged. It was only with time that people realized who the truly righteous were. Musuku Motomiya would take back those words eventually. Hitoshi had been working for Ms. Kamiya's good as well as everyone else. And now he had a chance to do even more good.

God had returned Hitoshi's son, and now He had given him the chance to save more people from the threat of Digimon.

* * * * * * * *

The news soared out over Japan like a burning phoenix. Less than an hour after word broke, people were again debating the presence of Digimon in society and the enigma that was Kari Kamiya. A topic that had been dying from inactivity suddenly flourished under the publics scrutinizing eye. The Guardians Opposing Digimon spoke out with full force, trying to decide the public's minds for them before the debate took place, but with out Hitoshi Ikari, they couldn't muster as much public attention as in the past. Only one person truly listened, and she was very shaken by their accusations. Kari Kamiya.

The burden of waiting wore on her like an iron cape. Mr. Takenouchi, along with several invited pro-Digimon speakers, drilled her in the art of public addresses and covered the wide range of topics she'd have to confront. She'd have to explain the origin of her powers (something she herself was not certain), denounce the notion that Digimon caused this condition, support the ideal of Digimon within the human community, debate and hopefully overcome Hitoshi Ikari, and throw in a quick jab at the G.O.D. if possible, all within the span of an hour. She focused as best she could but her inner fears wouldn't allow her the confidence to fully grasp the trial before her.

Fortunately, Davis had confidence to spare. He was with her every step of the way, holding her hand and encouraging her with his smile. Tai, TK and all the others offered the same support. None of them showed any doubt or unease as the date approached. But Kari knew the truth. If she could rise to meet this obstacle, her term of confinement within safe houses and labs could end much more quickly, and her reunion with Gatomon would be hastened. If only she could out maneuver the best anti-Digimon speaker in Japan…

It was strange how one week could drag by at a monotonous drudge, while the next flew by in a dizzying blur. Kari found herself sitting behind stage, preparing to make her address, only a moment after Tai had proposed the idea. She kept rehearsing the lines she'd learned, the face to wear, and the postures to present. She had to be calm, clear, and confident, the exact opposite of what she truly felt. How strange it was to present the exact opposite of what you felt, all for the sake of the public.

Davis and TK came over to where she waited. They were both dressed in uncomfortably formal attire, waiting to escort Kari outside after she was done speaking. They'd insisted on being with her after the talks were over.

TK asked, "How are you feeling?"

"I'm fine. I think I'm ready."

Davis grinned, "That's great. The folks outside'll be happy to hear that. Now, how do you really feel?"

"Terrified." She leaned her head against Davis' shoulder while TK held her hand.

Davis relaxed. "Good. That means you're taking this seriously."

"Thanks for the support."

TK chuckled, "I think he means that you understand what you're about to do and that means you'll stay alert. Some people would go into this without really appreciating the situation and make mistakes because of overconfidence."

She sighed, "Sorry, guys, but this pep talk isn't working."

Davis shrugged, "Never said I was a good motivational speaker. If you want, I'll go and tackle Ikari. Make him more scared than you are." Kari laughed.

"Thanks for the offer, Davis. But you can't take me back to the research center if you get arrested."

"Oh, yeah. TK, you mind going and tackling Ikari for me?" Everyone laughed.

"Ms. Kamiya?" A nervous looking stagehand came up. "We'll begin in one minute. Please take your place."

Kari nodded and stood up, "Well, wish me luck." She fought hard to get the words past her heart, which had jumped up into her throat.

TK said, "You'll do fine. Don't worry."

"Knock 'em dead!" Davis grinned. Kari smiled at them and stood just inside the curtain, waiting for the master of ceremonies to introduce her.

"Ladies and gentlemen, Ms. Kari Kamiya." Kari couldn't help but grin a little at such a formal introduction. You'd think I was royalty. She strode up to the podium, trying to keep her pace constant and her expression calm.

"Good evening, everyone. I'm sure everyone here is aware what this address is about, and so I will not bore you with a self-biography. I know that Japan has been frightened and upset by the 'condition' that causes me to glow. Many people believe that this is the result of my living with a Digimon partner, but this is not the case. I've spent many months separated from my friend, Gatomon, and I still continue to glow. Dr. Takenouchi and other Digimon researches have studied me since I sent Gatomon back to the Digital World, and have found no physical mutation or other abnormality in my body to explain why I glow. Tonight, I would like to explain why it is my body can produce light.

"About ten years ago, people all over the world received their first view of the Digital World, hanging upside down in the sky. Shortly after the strange apparition appeared, people saw their first Digimon, many of whom appeared to be attacking major cities. But the real source of this problem appeared just before dawn: the giant Digimon called Apocalymon. People all over the world watched as eight children from our world, and their Digimon partners, stepped forward to fight Apocalymon and end his threat to both worlds.

"I was one of those eight children. I was a member of the first 'Digidestined.' My teammates and I were chosen by the guardians of the Digital World to serve as protectors of both worlds because we all possessed the innate ability to make Digimon digivolve into higher and more powerful forms. To augment our powers, we were given tools that would focus our energy and help our partners digivolve. One of these items was a crest that symbolized a special trait each of us exhibited. There was a crest for Courage, Friendship, Love, Knowledge, Reliability, Sincerity, Hope, and Light. Mine was the crest of Light.

"We quickly discovered that my crest acted unlike any of the others. My crest seemed to make me glow. But the crests were just physical objects that focused the powers we all embodied. And so, the truth is that this power of light rests inside me. I've never met anyone with the same power. I am the only person so far who embodies the powers of light. That is why I glow. I cannot say that I fully understand why I was chosen to receive this power, and I do not know how far my powers extend, but I can promise that this is a power I was born with, it does not come from Digimon. My goal now is to learn to control this power. I don't want to hurt anyone. I want to lead a normal life, just like any other person.

"I know that all of this sounds unbelievable, even insane; but it is the truth. I know that my powers cause fear among people, and for that I am sorry, but please do not lash out in fear against Digimon. They are not the source of this strange power, and they would never wish me any harm. Digimon have been my dear friends for more than half my life, and they will be your friends too if you give them a chance. In fact, I believe that it is the Digimon who can teach me to control my powers, just as they control theirs. Thank you for listening to my story." The instant she stopped, cameras began flashing in a blinding wall of white. Questions flew at her from hidden sources, while the master of ceremonies tried to calm the crowd and introduced Hitoshi Ikari.

Halfway there. Now all she had to do was somehow out maneuver Hitoshi Ikari in a duel of words.

* * * * * * * *

Davis grinned as Kari finished her speech. She'd done great, just like he knew she would! And now he could finally exhale. His face had been turning blue.

"No need to be so nervous. Ms. Kamiya is a very adept speaker." Davis looked over to see a familiar face.

"Father Shinju! What are you doing here?"

The priest smiled, "Serving as an unofficial representative of the church. I could hardly stand to miss such an event. I must say I am very impressed by your friends speaking power. God knows my knees are shaking every time I deliver a eulogy."

"Does her story sound believable?"

"Is it not the truth?"

"Well, yeah, but I guess it sounds pretty out there to someone who hasn't been to the Digital World."

Father Shinju nodded, "I confess it defies anything in my imagination, but there are greater powers in the universe than we can possibly be aware. So I must say that I believe her, no matter how 'out there' her tale seems."

Davis grinned and glanced back at the stage. Hitoshi Ikari was just stepping up to the podium. Davis was surprised by how pale he was, and how his appearance fell short of its usual intimidation. He wore a dark gray suit, as opposed to the blue one he'd worn while speaking against Mr. Takenouchi. His slick hair was combed back, but it was much more silver than Davis remembered, and there were more lines in his face.

Father Shinju noticed the change as well. "I had heard that Hiotshi Ikari had resigned from the G.O.D. after one of its founders was arrested. It would seem the rumors are true. He looks as though he's been through an awful amount of stress."

Jerk had it coming. Davis thought. While Davis never wished Ikari any physical harm, he was glad to see that Mr. High-and-Mighty-Anti-Digimon-Speaker was knocked off his pedestal. He and his G.O.D. group needed a big wake up call

Speaking of organizations… Davis remembered one of Kari's history lessons where the church had taken an active role in several political movements. Maybe… "Father Shinju, could I stop by your church tomorrow and talk to you about something?"

"Of course. Otamamon would welcome the company."

"Great, thanks." Davis grinned. DREAM could use a little help in getting off the ground. Davis was sure he could gain some support for the idea among Father Shinju's congregation.

But such thoughts had to wait as the debate began. Kari Kamiya vs. Hitoshi Ikari. Go get him, Kari!

* * * * * * * *

"I would like to begin by addressing Ms. Kamiya's story of the supposed origin behind her powers." Hitoshi said, "Putting aside the sheer disbelief such a story evokes, I'm more interested in the fact that her powers are still connected to Digimon, despite her claims to the contrary. It was Digimon who brought about the awakening of this strange ability, and it was Digimon who forced her to use this terrible power, a power that has hurt my own child. Even if she can prove that Digimon didn't cause this strange state within her, which I doubt she can, it cannot be ignored that her powers, or perhaps illness is a better term, was connected to the crisis that Digimon create!"

Kari rebuttled, "Whether or not you believe my story, Mr. Ikari, is not my concern. It's the truth, whether you choose to believe it or not. As for Digimon, it is true that they were involved in that crisis. Many Digimon gave their lives to protect our world. My partner, Gatomon, put her life in danger to protect me. For every evil Digimon that tries to hurt people, there is always more than one Digimon who wants to protect those who cannot protect themselves. As for my power, which is anything but an illness, there is no proof that Digimon caused it, nor is there any way to prove that it would have remained dormant had I not come in contact with Digimon. The truth is we will never know because things are the way they are. To speculate on what might have been does not help the situation at all.

"I would also like to take this time to address Mr. Ikari's accusations that my powers are responsible for his son's state. He's gone to great lengths to make me sound like an aggressor and turn his son into the victim, but this is not even close to what actually happened. His son attacked me with a knife while his friends held me. He wanted to kill me because I wasn't considered 'normal,' just as his father wants me locked away because I'm 'sick.'"

"That is a lie!" Hitoshi bellowed with uncharacteristic fury. "How dare you throw such slander at my child? He would never do such a thing!"

"You're mistaken, father." The debate halted as a figure stood up from the audience.

"Muri…" A small gasp rippled through the crowd. Muri Ikari stepped up onto the stage and addressed the audience.

"I'm pleased to inform everyone that I am feeling much better after many weeks in recovery. The truth is that I did attack Kari Kamiya. It was a terrible mistake born out of ignorance and fear. I was wrong, and I can now admit that. I forced Kari's powers to flare up in self-defense; she could not control it at the time. I don't hold any grudge against her. If anything, I should thank her for opening my eyes. All I can do now is ask for her forgiveness." With that, he abruptly spun around and walked down the main aisle.

After Muri exited the room without answering any questions, the debate shifted completely in Kari's favor. Hitoshi could not collect himself enough to counter her as she explained her relationship with Digimon and what they meant to her as friends and partners. "Digimon have always been there to protect me when I needed them, and they're as close to me as members of my family. Mr. Ikari, it's clear that you don't like Digimon, but have you ever even spoken to one? Have you ever sat down and taken the time to try and learn more about them?"

Hitoshi, now sweating replied in a weary voice. "I don't need to talk to them. I already know what they are: an unnatural abomination, born from technology and not nature. They have no place in this world."

"You're wrong. Digimon are the embodiment of our dreams. They're born from our hopes as much as from data, and what's more natural than for a person to dream? Digimon are not the threat you think they are. Some are aggressive, but many more are defenders who want to help others. I hope you can learn to see this as well."

The debate ended shortly thereafter. Hitoshi practically crawled off stage, weary and broken. Kari ran to her friends, her mind filled with disbelief rather than elation. She hadn't yet allowed herself to digest the news that had happened during the debate. Muri Ikari was back, and he was sorry!

Tai and the others escorted her out the back, but the reporters were waiting. Kari could barely see the car between the endless flashing of cameras and the glare from lights atop video recorders. With every burst of light, there was another question.

"Ms. Kamiya, your thoughts on the debate?"

"Ms. Kamiya, are you going to press charges against Muri Ikari?"

"Ms. Kamiya, is it true you were once abducted by aliens?" Kari nearly stopped at that one.

"Kari." The group stopped. Muri stood waiting next to the car. He grinned, "I was hoping I could speak to you before you could escape." He held out his hand. "I wanted to apologize formally for how I treated you before this whole ordeal started. I was wrong, and I'm sorry."

Kari looked down from him to his hand and back again. He seemed so genuine, and he was apologizing like a perfect gentlemen. Everyone was standing there, waiting for her to accept his generous apology. So why were the hairs on the back of her neck standing on end?

She slowly reached out and took his hand. "Of course. Thank you, Muri." The cameras flashed and ice ran from her palm all the way through her body. Kari shivered slightly and pressed forward, almost leaving the others behind.

Kari, Davis, and Tai entered the car with Mr. Takenouchi. The others would follow shortly. The door slammed shut and car pulled away. Kari allowed herself to drop her shoulders, but the chill still ran through her. Davis frowned at her expression and put his hand on hers. "Hey, you okay?"

"No…" She shuddered.

Tai looked back from the front seat, "What's wrong. You're as pale as a Frigimon."

Kari leaned against Davis, grateful for his warmth. "When I touched Muri's hand, I felt a chill so cold. It was like touching death itself. Something about him terrifies me. He's calmer than when I last saw him, but there's something hidden about him. Something I can't understand and don't want to feel again."

Davis said, "He got swallowed up by the Dark Ocean, right? Maybe they did something to him?"

"Then why is he helping Kari?"

"Okay, maybe he escaped. I dunno. I can't understand why the Dark Ocean would want to help Kari out, and I can't understand how Muri could suddenly be a nice guy all of a sudden."

Tai thought for a moment. "I'll talk to Izzy and the others when we get back to the Center. We'll keep an eye on Muri. See what he does."

Davis nodded, "Sounds good. Right, Kari?" Kari had fallen asleep on Davis' shoulder again. He smiled. "Long night for her."

Tai agreed. "She really trusts you, Davis. Otherwise, she wouldn't fall asleep like that. I'm still amazed at how close you two have become."

"This mean you're okay with me being her boyfriend?"

"Not a chance."

Davis sighed.

* * * * * * * *

"Muri!" Hitoshi stormed up to his son outside the community center. "What do you think you're doing?"

Muri regarded his father with disinterested eyes. "Following the plan."

"What plan?"

"The plan to liberate the Child of Light. You're an obstacle, and I had to remove you."

"Remove me? What are you babbling about?" He reached to place a hand on his son's shoulder. "Don't you understand that Ms. Kamiya is in danger, as are we all? The Digimon are changing her! And they'll do the same to us! To let her go without treatment would cond- Aagghh!" He screamed as Muri grabbed his wrist and twisted, hard. Hitoshi sunk to his knees and tried to wrestle his arm free from Muri's vice-like grip.

"We can't get to the Child of Light if she's sealed away and monitored. People will relax if they think she isn't a threat. Even her guardians will become lax after what happened tonight. By sabotaging you, I have helped a higher cause."

"Higher cause? You betrayed your father! 'Honor they mother and they father!"

"Your words are not mine anymore. I am no longer Muri. I have become."

"Become what?"

Muri just shrugged his father's arm away and walked down the street, oblivious to Hitoshi's calls. Hitoshi lay on the ground, in pain and in fear. This was more than some trauma. Whatever he'd just spoken with, it wasn't his son.

* * * * * * * *

The car stopped in front the research center. Security guards stood waiting to escort the three of them in. But before they could reach the door, a voice called, "Kari! Kari!"
Kari looked up wearily, afraid it was another reporter. The guards stepped forward to block the female visitor, but a glimpse of the girl's face was enough to make Kari shout, "Leave her alone. Let her through!"

Kay Joshu stepped up to Kari, panting heavily with her purse hanging down to her ankles. "Kari… I'm so glad I caught you. I saw you at the debate, but I couldn't get past all those reporters…" She gasped. "I ran after your car… and… and… and I really need to sit down!" She looked like she was about to collapse.

Kari, still stunned by seeing her former best friend, said, "Of course. Let's go inside."

"Excuse me, miss." One of the guards said, "That would be a security breach. She doesn't have authorization."

Davis said, "Then keep her in the lobby. She can't do any damage from there." The guards reluctantly agreed, so long as Davis and Kari took responsibility for anything Kay did.

Inside, Davis and Tai left the two girls alone, although with as much hesitance as the guards outside. Kari assured them she'd be fine and sat down next to Kay. There was so much she wanted to say at once. "How have you been?" "Why are you here?" "Have you seen Muri?" "Do you still hate me?" But she couldn't say anything, and neither could Kay.

The silence lumbered on for several minutes. They sat there, looking at each other. Two faces from their childhood now looked so alien, so distant; as if they'd lost sight of one another for years.

Finally, Kay spoke. "I… I-I got your letter." She pulled out a crumpled sheet of paper. It was the letter Kari had written to her that terrible day before she'd been kicked out of school.

"I'm glad." Kari smiled.

"I want you to know that I don't hate you. I was… scared. I still am. I can't understand what's happening to you. I've known you almost my whole life and I never dreamed you would be able to glow. I was too shocked; and Muri kept telling me to stay away from you. I'm sorry I abandoned you. I know it's been hard, but I was too scared to help. I'm sorry I'm such a coward."

Kari slowly placed her hand on her friend's. "It's alright. You're not a coward. I understand how you must have felt. I scare myself sometimes. But I want you to know that I didn't attack Muri or his friends."

"I know. I heard your speech tonight."

"And you believe it?"

"Was it the truth?"

"Yes."

"Then I guess I have to believe it. I mean, it's hard to accept the idea you were born with this power, but we're living in a time when a lot of unbelievable things are happening. Parallel dimensions, invasions from other worlds, and humans who are partnered with creatures to defend our world. What's one glowing woman compared to all that?" They both laughed.

They talked for over two hours, growing more comfortable with each other over time. The students at Kari's old school were still divided on the matter, and it had caused a huge schism within the student body. Teachers were at their wits end trying to prevent fights and arguments. Word has also gotten out that Davis' grades had improved since he'd been doing all his work at home. Kay grinned as she proudly announced that she'd figured it was because of Kari's tutelage. "He's the only boy in the whole school that stood up for you. I was sure you'd help him do better in school." She also told Kari that while she knew Muri was back and healthy, she wasn't going to speak to him. "We're no longer an item. I can't forgive him for attacking you, even if he thought he was defending everyone else. I can't believe that he's changed so suddenly."

"Neither can I…" Kari muttered. She felt that chill again. She decided to change the subject. "What made you decide to go to my speech?"

"Davis did."

"Davis?"

"Well, mostly Davis, and partly because I wanted to see you again. Davis caught up with me one day after school a little while ago. He tried to convince me to contact you, but I was too scared. He gave me his cell phone number in case I wanted to talk to you, but I never took him up on it. When I heard you were going to address the nation, I kept hearing him reminding me of how close we were, and I decided to come and see you. I didn't know what to say when I met you again, so I figured I'd improvise."

Kari giggled, "You're doing a very fine job."

"Thank you… I'm glad I did this. I really needed to talk to you again and see that you really haven't changed. I don't think I'm afraid anymore."

"I'm very happy to hear that." Kari leaned forward and hugged her friend.

"Now," Kay said hesitantly, "I need to ask you a question. How does it feel?"

"How does what feel?"

"How does it feel when you glow?"

"Oh…" Kari thought for a moment. "It varies a lot, depending on how I feel at the time. When this whole ordeal started, my own powers hurt me. I was sad, angry, and afraid all at once. I started lashing out at the people around me, and my powers burned me from inside. It hurt every time I glowed and there were times I thought I'd die. I was afraid of my own powers, and thought I'd never lead a normal life again.

"But then things changed. I… I found someone special. Someone who wasn't afraid of me and supported me through everything."

"Davis?"

"How'd you guess?"

"Who else? I know he's been with you through all this." Kay laughed. "I still remember how he used to push for your affection. I guess he finally wore you down."

"No, he didn't wear me down. He's changed a lot. I guess I was around him so much that I never noticed the change. He's much more caring and sensitive than in the past, and I trust him now as much as I do my brother. He makes me happy, and when I feel complete joy, my powers flare up again, but this time they don't hurt me. I feel warm, comfortable. I want to sing and dance and let everyone know how wonderful I am doing."

"Sounds like you're in love."

"Love?" Kari blushed. "I don't know if we're that serious yet. But… the idea is appealing." They both laughed and continued to talk.

* * * * * * * *

Kari waved goodbye to Kay with a new feeling of hope inside her. Kay had promised to visit again the next day, and Kari would give notice for her to be cleared through security. She had her best friend back; a greater pleasure she couldn't imagine.

Davis came down the steps and glanced around. "Kay finally left? You two've been going on for hours!"

"And what did you and Tai do in the meantime?"

Davis rubbed his head, "He noogied me while lecturing about how I should act around you. Does he do this with every boyfriend you've had?"

"Just the ones I'm really serious with."

"How many is that?!"

"You sure you wanna know?"

"Yeah. I need to write up a hit list."

Kari laughed, then she leaned forward and kissed him. "W-what was that for?" Davis blushed furiously.

"I'm thanking you. Kay told me about your meeting. You helped me regain my best friend, even if it was indirectly. I still can't understand how you always manage to make things work out."

Davis grinned, "Hey, it's gift." He held up the crest of light replica, which still glowed brightly. "Think Gennai would give me a crest of miracles? I'm pretty good at those."

Kari wished him goodnight and saw him out the door, already eager to see him the next day as well. So much had happened over the last few months, but tonight had been the first time she'd felt that she had influenced the events surrounding her. She'd taken control, and it was truly and epiphany.

In her room, she sat down and prepared to take off her shoes, confident that she wouldn't be sealed away much longer. The ringing of her cell phone halted her changing. She picked it up and answered, "Hello?"

"Kari." An even and cool voice said on the other end. Kari felt the blood leaving her face.

"Muri?" The chill returned. "how'd you get my number?"

"I need to speak with you right away."

"I-I don't even know where you are."

"I'm in an ally several blocks south of the research center. You can sneak out the back."

"How'd you find me?" There was no way he could have followed her like Kay had.

"I understand so much more about you than you realize. I can feel you." His voice became eerily certain, border lining obsessed. She hadn't heard that tone since… since… Dragomon. "I know you have questions for me. You want to know where I've been and what happened to me. I can answer all those questions for you, if you'll see me."

"You can answer them now, on the phone."

"No. To know the truth, you must meet me. If you do not want to meet in an ally, then I shall meet you at dock 19 in the harbor in one hour. Please do not be late." He hung up.

Kari stood there, thinking about what was safe to do, what was prudent. But she had to know the source of that chill, and if she involved the others Muri might never reveal the truth to her. Terrifying though it was, she knew she had to face Muri Ikari.

* * * * * * * *

Kay grinned to herself as she walked home. Finally, she'd worked up the courage to see her friend! She knew she wasn't the bravest of people. She'd always envied Kari's brother Tai for his bold attitude, and Kari herself for her own more timid but no less impressive sense of courage. And now Kari's boyfriend, the stubborn and often overbearing courage of Davis Motomiya. Courage attracts courage, I guess.

But Kay had shown courage this night by overcoming her uncertainty and going to see one of the most important people in her life. Goodness knew she'd already lost enough important people already. Muri was gone from her life, even if he'd returned to the public. He hated Digimon, and he hated Kari. He'd shown that through his actions in the past, and his silken words did little to change that image. Until she was sure he truly had changed, Kay decided it was best to avoid him.

Unfortunately, life rarely matched one's expectations. No sooner had Kay renewed her vow to cast Muri out of her life when Muri Ikari seemed to flow out of the shadow and casually stroll up to her, and then past.

"M-Muri?"

He turned around and scanned her with disinterested eyes. He turned around and continued to walk.

"Muri! Don't you recognize me?"

He stopped and looked over his shoulder. "I know who you are, Kay Joshu, but I don't care. You're not her. I'm going to meet her and prove my worth. Nothing else matters." He resumed his walk.

Kay stared at his back, horrified by the utter lack of emotion in his expression and his voice. But she was even more terrified to see the ripple of darkness across the back of his head. His hair vanished for a moment, revealing a set of short black spikes running down the middle of his skull. The image passed so quickly that Kay wondered if she'd imagined it, but deep down she felt a chill that told her that was no illusion. Her confidence now fading, she reached for her cell phone with pale, sweaty hands and dialed the only number she could think to call.

* * * * * * * *

Davis felt as though he were walking on clouds. Things couldn't have been more perfect. He was having a fantastic time dating Kari, and he didn't want it to ever stop. On top of that, she'd scored major points against Hitoshi Ikari, and she'd reunited with her best friend. With any luck, they'd be moving Kari back into her apartment by summer!

He allowed himself a small chuckle and a mental pat on the back for making some of this possible. Mr. Takenouchi was right; if you had the power to make things happen, you could do a lot of good for people. Of course, Davis had to admit he hadn't orchestrated everything. He'd been just as surprised as everyone else when Kay had appeared to talk to Kari. Davis had pretty much given up on her. And he never would have dreamed Muri would have helped them!

A ringing from his cell phone pulled Davis out of his reverie. "Hello?"

"Davis, it's Kay."

"Oh, hey. How's it-"

"I think Muri's going after Kari."

"What?" So much for helping.

"I met him on the street. He kept talking about 'her' and going to meet 'her.' I'm sure he was talking about Kari."

"But Kari's under heavy guard. He couldn't meet her unless…" Davis grimaced and pulled out his crest replica. He pointed towards the research center, now several blocks away. The pink light glowed with a strong pulse, but not nearly as brightly as it should have. He waved the crest towards the city, and the light dimmed. Swinging it back the other way, the glow grew brighter until Davis had to tuck it back under his shirt before he attracted attention. The pulse had been strongest towards the docs. Kari, please don't tell me you're actually going to meet him! Davis spoke quickly into the cell phone. "Go back to the Research Center and get Tai and Mr. Takenouchi. I'll find Kari." He hung up without waiting for a reply and sprinted for the docks.

* * * * * * * *

The chill night air, augmented by the foggy blanket covering the bay, sent shivers through Kari's body. Slipping out of the center had been easier than she'd expected. The guards had all been discussing the evening's events and taking bets on how long it'd be before Kari went home; and she had been able to duck under security cameras and slip out the back, just as Muri told her to do. It seemed everyone was at ease from her earlier success. The whole way she'd questioned her sanity and her actions. Muri had threatened her life, and hated Digimon with a passion. Why would she ever want to meet such a person unescorted?

But all she had to do was look out at the bay water, now blackened by a midnight sky. The Dark Ocean. Muri had been there; and out of all his friends he'd been the only one to apparently escape. She had to know how he'd done it, and what had happened to his friends. Though not nearly as publicized as Muri, none of the other boys who'd jumped Kari had returned. She still remembered their terrified faces as the Scubamon dragged them into the darkness. And the mad laughter of the one boy who'd seen Dragomon echoed in her memory. It had sounded as if he'd given up all hope of sanity and chose to fling himself to the Scubamon rather than face such a terrifying creature. Kari had felt much the same way when she'd seen his true form.

She reached dock 19 unmolested, though she expected Scubamon to come crawling out of the water any minute. Being surrounded by so much water made her uneasy. She hoped she wasn't becoming hydrophobic.

"I'm so glad you came." Kari spun around. Muri was standing behind her, blocking the exit from the doc.

She tried to keep her voice calm, "What do you want, Muri?"

"To talk. Merely to talk." He took a step towards her.

She said quickly, "You can talk from over there." He stopped obligingly and stood in a relaxed position. "First things first, how did you get my cell phone number?"

Muri held up a key. It was the house key she'd lost the day he'd attacked her. "I went into your house and found your cell phone number on a sheet of paper. I had to find a way to contact you privately."

"How would you know when I was alone?"

"I told you, I can feel you." That answer practically stopped her heart.

"Where have you been all these months?"

"I was… lost."

"You can be more specific than that. What happened to you in the Dark Ocean?"

"Dark Ocean… such an ugly name. I'd call it paradise. Yes, I confess that I was afraid when we first entered, but I was blinded by my ignorance. Lord Dragomon tried to help me, to make me see a new way, but I fled from him. But He did not hold it against me. No, He never gave up on me. His servants brought me before Him, and He tried to enlighten me. But I fled again, and somehow escaped to this world using some of my new powers. I still don't know how I did it; I had not fully awakened. It was all a fevered dream. I was terrified of the light and the dark, and I could find no peace. No one cared for me, and I cared for no one. But deep down, I felt a yearning for Him, my Master."

Kari took a step back. "Master? Dragomon? What do you mean? How could you possibly see him as your master?"

Muri sighed, "Child of Light, it's so hard for you to understand. You still judge Him by this world's standards. This world would see Him as a terrifying, grotesque creature. But He is a divine savior. He found me in this world and healed my broken mind. It was He who instructed me to aid you in the debate against my former father."

"Former father?"

"Yes. I am no longer his son. Dragomon is my father, my savior, my lord, my friend. I live only for Him, and He does what is best for me."

It looked like Muri, but it didn't sound or act like him. This thing before Kari spoke with Muri's voice, but the words were all wrong. Muri never spoke so romantically, or fanatically. "I don't know what you are, but you're not Muri!" He took a step towards her. "Stay back!" He continued to stalk towards her.

"I was Muri, but I've become more. You would love to live in Lord Dragomon's world. There is no hate, no prejudice, no fear, because everyone is the same. He made me one of his own, just as he did the others."

"The others? Your friends?"

"All of Lord Dragomon's servants are my friends now. And you will be our Queen, our mother, our friend. You have no idea what wonders await you. Just come with me and greet Lord Dragomon. He will welcome you with open arms."

"You mean open tentacles! I'll never join that monster."

"You are misguided. You have been tainted by this world. But Lord Dragomon can change you, just as he changed me. All you have to do is come with me. I was sent to bring you to Him. Don't fight the blessings that have been offered you." He reached for her with greedy hands that seemed to swell and grow darker. His body rippled in darkness, and his eye paled to a sickly yellow. He was now a Scubamon monster. He was taller and his limbs were thicker than the other dark creatures, but the toad-like body and rippling darkness were all too familiar. Kari backed away towards the edge of the dock. She could see that the water around her was growing darker. It no longer reflected the moon and the starlight. If anything, it sucked the light in.

"Kari!" Davis came running down the dock, his crest's pink shine cutting through the thickening fog. "Get away from her!" He charged the Muri-creature and swung with his right arm. The creature moved with a fluid grace that seemed totally inhuman. He brushed away from the blow and brought his webbed foot into Davis' path, tripping him. As Davis fell forward, the monster's arm snaked out and grabbed hold of his throat, lifting him into the air. Davis gagged and choked for break while the Muri-creature squeezed harder.

"Stop it!" Kari screamed.

The creature's voice still sounded like Muri, only much more raspier, almost soar, "This one resisted my Master. He defied the will of a god! He must be punished!"

"Please, don't!" Kari felt so afraid for Davis, and herself. Try as she might, she couldn't focus her powers to attack. She still couldn't summon the light inside her. "Don't kill him, I'm begging you!"

Though she could no longer make out the features on his face, Kari was sure the Muri-creature was smiling. "This one is special to you, yes? Very well, I will spare him, if you agree to come with me."

Davis gagged, "Kari… don't…"

"Silence, worm!" He flung Davis to the ground with a loud thud. Davis lay sprawled, gasping for air. "Come with me now and I will spare him. My Master will forgive his survival if I bring Him you." He held out a wet hand, or was it claw?

Kari bit her lip and held out her hand.

"K-Kari!" Davis tried to rise on shaky legs.

"I'm sorry." Kari knew there was no other way. She couldn't fight this creature that surpassed human strength, and even if she could run, Davis would lose his life. At least this way he'd live. She placed her hand in the creature's. It was cold and slimy and forced a chill down her arm into her heart.

Before she could speak, the creature lunged for the black water, yanking her with him. She stumbled and shrieked as they fell into the water. Her last sight of the world was Davis lunging for her helplessly, too far to do any good. In a heartbeat the black void was around her, pulling her deeper. And she wasn't sure she'd ever see the light of Earth again.

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What will happen to Kari? Will the others be able to save her? A big fight awaits in the next chapter!

Author's Note: Two more chapters… Just two more chapters… I can do it. Sheesh. I've been writing this fic for almost a year (thanks mainly to procrastination). I'm glad we're coming up on a fight scene. Those are always fun to throw in now and again. I shall do my best to get the next chapter out ASAP, but I'm going back to college next week. Hopefully, I'll be able to find a quiet place to write. Here's hoping! In the meantime, any reviews would be most welcome. Thanks for reading!