Till There Was You
Chapter Twenty-Two


Mount Coronet...

The sun had risen, and it promised to be a beautiful day. However, the beauty was lost on the small group gathered at the base of the mountain. Mewtwo, Renamon, Gatomon, Leomon and BlackTigramon stood at the start of the path that would lead to the very top of Mount Coronet where Spear Pillar resided. And once there, they would meet the two Legendary Dragons.

“So, this is it,” Gatomon said, breaking the heavy silence. “One way or the other, once we reach the top, we either succeed in our mission, or get annihilated.” She chuckled nervously. “But, hey, no pressure, right?”

“You don't have to go up there if you don't want to, Gatomon,” Renamon said.

“Of course I don't want to go up there,” Gatomon said. “But I'm not bailing on you. Now lets get up there and get this over with.”

“Agreed,” Mewtwo said. “I'm ready to get this done, as well.”

Without another word, they started up the path.



An hour later, they arrived. The path expanded into a wider area lined with stone columns. Just up ahead, they saw the ruins of Spear Pillar. Upon entering the ruins, they came upon a vast open area with a pedestal sitting in the middle of the floor. On the pedestal were two circular indentations.

“Well, here we are,” Renamon said. She shivered slightly. The air felt heavy and an ominous feeling hung over them. “Shall we set the orbs on the pedestal?”

“Not yet,” Mewtwo said. “We need to wait for the Mirage Pokemon to arrive. Personally I'll feel better with them here to help us if the worst should happen.”

They spread out to look around while waiting for the three Legendary Pokemon to show up. Leomon studied the stone alter, wondering how many times it had been used to summon Palkia and Dialga. He knew from Mewtwo that one person had succeeded in that venture. A man named Cyrus had tried to use Palkia and Dialga to create a world of his own making. It had resulted in him disappearing into a dimensional rift, never to be seen again. And now, his father had attempted to harness the powers of the two dragons for his own purposes. Leomon shook his head. What possessed people to bring about such catastrophic events just to satisfy their own selfish needs? Well, no matter what, he wouldn't let his father succeed.

“They're here,” Mewtwo announced.

Leomon turned around and saw three small Pokemon floating in the air. This was his first time actually seeing them, having only heard of them.

“They're smaller than I was expecting,” BlackTigramon commented.

“They maybe small, but they're powerful Psychic Types,” Renamon spoke up. She turned her attention to the three Pokemon and smiled. “Hello, again.”

Hello, Renamon, Azelf spoke. You no longer seem conflicted. It seems you came to terms with your feelings.

“I did,” Renamon replied. “But right now we have a big problem to deal with.”

Yes. The invasion, Uxie said. It turned to glance at Leomon. The one called Emperor Leomon seeks to take this world by force. However, he fails to realize exactly what he's up against. There are many powerful Pokemon that reside in this world, some even greater than Palkia and Dialga.

“Seriously,” Gatomon asked. “There are Pokemon stronger than Palkia and Dialga?”

“Apparently so,” Renamon said.

“Uxie, dangerous as it is, we may have to call upon the two dragons,” Mewtwo said. “Perhaps with their help, we can close the gates between this world and the Digital World, thus preventing the invasion.”

If that does work, then your Digimon companions will be trapped here forever, Mesprit pointed out.

“We had thought to send them back first,” Mewtwo said. “With the exception of Renamon, that is. Gatomon, Leomon and BlackTigramon would return.”

“Um, actually,” Gatomon spoke up. “I've been thinking and...well, I think I'd like to stay here, too.”

“You do,” Renamon asked.

“Well, now that I know Leomon's safe, I wouldn't mind staying here,” Gatomon replied. “To be honest, like you, Renamon, I'm tired of having to struggle to survive.” She turned to Leomon. “I hope that's not a problem.”

“Not at all, Gatomon,” Leomon replied. “If that is what you want, then so be it. I, however, must return to the Digital World. Even with the portals sealed, I must put an end to my father's reign of terror.”

“And I intend to be there and help you,” BlackTigramon said.

“It seems that Leomon and BlackTigramon will be returning then,” Mewtwo said.

Very well, Uxie said. Then let us commence the summoning. Place the orbs on the pedestal.

Renamon opened the satchel and removed the Adamant and Lustrous orbs. She handed one to Mewtwo and the two of them approached the alter. They stood there a moment, their hearts pounding with fear. Finally, they set the orbs in place and then stepped back. For a moment, nothing happened, then the orbs flashed and began glowing. Everyone staggered as the area began shaking. The very air began thrumming with power and dark clouds gathered overhead. Energy crackled, causing everyone's fur to stand on end. Suddenly, two shafts of light appeared: one light-purple, the other blue. The lights steadily began to take shape and then solidified, revealing the massive forms of Palkia and Dialga!



The Digital World...

Emperor Leomon entered IceLeopardmon's lab.

“Is it ready,” he asked.

“I just finished it, sire,” IceLeopardmon replied. He held out a pair of black chains and handed them to his master.

“Excellent,” Emperor Leomon said, admiring the chains. “Now all that remains is to capture the two dragons.”

“I have been monitoring the human world and I've just detected a massive surge of energy,” IceLeopardmon said. “Two of them, to be precise. I think it might be Palkia and Dialga.”

“Perfect,” Emperor Leomon said. “Lock onto the area where the energy is emanating and open a portal. I'm going dragon hunting.”

“At once, sire,” IceLeopardmon said, typing away on his computer.

“Pantheramon, prepare our forces,” Emperor Leomon said. “The moment I have the dragons under my control, I will have them open a gateway large enough to move my army through.”

“Yes, my liege,” Pantheramon replied, rushing off to carry out his leader's orders.

“The portal is ready, sire,” IceLeopardmon said, opening the portal.

“Be ready to move out,” Emperor Leomon ordered. “This shouldn't take long.”

With the black chains in hand, Emperor Leomon stepped through the portal. After he was gone, Lynxmon glanced at IceLeopardmon.

“You know, I almost wish I was going to be there to see the look on his face,” she said.

IceLeopardmon smirked. “So do I.”



Spear Pillar...

Mewtwo and his Digimon companions stood in awe before the two mighty dragons.

“Whoa,” Gatomon whispered.

“So, this is Palkia and Dialga,” Leomon said.

Mewtwo took a cautious step towards the two dragons and faced them. He had always thought himself powerful, but now, standing before these two Pokemon, he felt somewhat insignificant. Still, at least they hadn't attacked him or his friends right away. Steeling himself, he addressed them.

“Palkia, Dialga,” he said. “Welcome. I'm sure you're wondering why you have been summoned. There is another realm, known as the Digital World. A being known as Emperor Leomon is attempting to enter our world and conquer it.” He indicated his friends. “These four are Digimon from the Digital World. They are enemies of Emperor Leomon and arrived her because of the portals he created. We called you here to see about sealing the Digital World and preventing the invasion. Renamon and Gatomon wish to remain here, but Leomon and BlackTigramon want to return to their own world. Can you help us?”

Both dragons growled and roared, causing the ground to tremble.

“What did they say,” Renamon asked.

“It's not good,” Mewtwo replied. “They said they can close off the gateway between the two worlds.”

“Well, isn't that what we wanted,” Gatomon asked.

“The problem is, they say that none of you belong in this world and that they intend to send you back first and then close off the gateway,” Mewtwo said.

“What,” Renamon exclaimed. “Just what gives them the right to deny us the chance to stay here?” She turned to glare at the two dragons. “I have no intention of returning to the Digital World! I'm not leaving Mewtwo!”

Palkia roared, causing them to stagger.

“I don't think it appreciated the attitude,” Gatomon said.

“Well, I don't appreciate having to leave behind someone I care about,” Renamon replied. “They have no right to do that!”

“I agree,” Leomon spoke up. “I see no reason why you and Gatomon can't stay here.”

The two dragons roared again, and there was no denying the anger tones.

“I don't care what you say,” Mewtwo countered, anger evident in his voice. “I will not let you send Renamon away! I will fight you if necessary!”

Everyone tensed as Palkia and Dialga stomped forward.

“So much for peaceful negotiations,” Gatomon said.

Suddenly, everyone halted as a portal opened up on a ledge just above them. As they watched, a tall figure emerged from the portal.

“Emperor Leomon,” BlackTigramon hissed.



Emperor Leomon gazed around, staring at the two dragons towering over Mewtwo and the others. Despite himself, he couldn't help but admire them.

“Magnificent,” he said. Then he turned his attention to the group down below. “Leomon. So good to see you, son. And the traitor, BlackTigramon.”

“I was never truly your servant,” BlackTigramon snarled. “You twisted my mind and made me your puppet!”

“Irrelevant,” Emperor Leomon replied. He glanced at Renamon and Gatomon. “We've never met, but I know you two: Renamon and Gatomon. You two had the ''courtesy'' to test my portals for me.” His red eyes fell upon Mewtwo. “And you. You're Mewtwo. I've been hearing quite a lot about you. I'm looking forward to destroying each and everyone of you.”

“You shouldn't have even bothered coming here, father,” Leomon said. “You have no chance of conquering this world.”

“Oh, I beg to differ, Leomon,” Emperor Leomon said. “I intend to conquer this world and these two will help me accomplish it.”

“They'll never help you,” Mewtwo said. “You have no way to control them!”

Emperor Leomon smiled coldly. “Now that's where you're wrong, my friend.”

Moving fast, Emperor Leomon whipped out the black chains. Whirling them around, he tossed them at Palkia and Dialga. The chains wrapped around the two dragons, ensnaring them. Black bolts of energy flashed as the chains tightened around them. Palkia and Dialga roared and shrieked, thrashing as the chains dug in. After a moment, they fell silent and stopped thrashing. Then their eyes flared bright red.

“What did you do to them,” Renamon demanded.

“They are now under my control,” Emperor Leomon said. “The Black Chains are an invention of my own design. With them, I have total control over Palkia and Dialga. Allow me to demonstrate. Palkia, Dialga, attack them!”

The two dragons roared and advanced upon Mewtwo and his Digimon companions.

“Renamon, Gatomon, Leomon,” Mewtwo said. “You'd better Digivolve to your Ultimate Levels!”

Renamon nodded. Considering how powerful Palkia and Dialga were, they were going to need all the firepower they could get. In an instant, Taomon, Angewomon and SaberLeomon appeared, ready for battle. Mewtwo also transformed, changing into his X Mega form. Transformed and ready to fight, they met the charging dragons head-on.


Up on the ledge, Emperor Leomon watched as the battle commenced, a satisfied smile on his face. He was going to enjoy watching his enemies die. Whats more, he was also anxious to see just how powerful Palkia and Dialga were. Maybe he could conquer this world with them.

Stop this!

Emperor Leomon looked up, surprised by the disembodied voice. Hovering in the air before him were the three Mirage Pokemon.

You must stop! You are dealing with forces you do not understand!

“Ah, the lake dwelling Pokemon,” Emperor Leomon said. “I read all about you. If I'm not mistaken, you have some ties with Palkia and Dialga.”

Are you not listening? This has to stop! If Palkia and Dialga get out of control, their powers could destroy everything!

They won't get out of control,” Emperor Leomon said. “They are now under my control. They will be the key to my conquest.”

You are a fool! Others have tried to gain control of Palkia and Dialga before! And they failed!

“Enough,” Emperor Leomon snarled. “I'm through listening! Begone!”

Following this, Emperor Leomon summoned a shimmering orb of power and hurled it at the Mirage Pokemon. Pooling their energy together, they erected a psychic barrier and blocked the attack. Emperor Leomon hurled another orb and then a second one. The Mirage Pokemon managed to hold off the attacks but started to waver under the relentless assault of the Mega Level Digimon. Finally, the barrier shattered, scattering the three Legendary Pokemon. They fell from the air, crashing to the ground.

“Bothersome pests,” Emperor Leomon sneered contemptuously. He turned back to the battle on the ground.


Taomon dodged aside as Palkia's claw slashed downward, leaving large trenches in the ground. Taomon countered with her Talisman Star attack. Palkia reared back, allowing SaberLeomon and BlackTigramon to charge in and tackle the mighty dragon. Palkia staggered backwards but managed to retain it's footing. It raised it's claw, which began glowing. Palkia swiped it's claw, sending a curved arc of energy at it's foes. The three Digimon flew through the air as the attack collided with them. They crashed to the ground, disoriented.

“Are...you two alright,” Taomon asked.

“I will be,” SaberLeomon replied, shaking his head.

“Heads up, here it comes,” BlackTigramon said, hastily climbing to her food.

Palkia was stomping towards them, it's eyes glaring at the three Digimon.



Up in the air, Mewtwo and Angewomon were battling with Dialga.

“Does this thing have a weakness,” Angewomon asked.

“It's a Dragon Type as well as a Steel Type,” Mewtwo explained. “Fighting, Ground or another Dragon Type would be effective against it.”

“If I remember correctly, isn't your current Mega Evolution a Fighting Type,” she said.

“Yes, that's true,” Mewtwo replied. “But that doesn't guarantee much.”

Dialga opened it's mouth and shot out a silver ball of energy. Mewtwo conjured up an orb of psionic energy and shot it at the incoming projectile. Both balls crashed together, creating a massive explosion. Angewomon swooped in closer and launched a volley of Celestial Arrows. The arrows of light hit Dialga, but thanks to it's steel-like hide, it merely shrugged the attack off. Mewtwo attempted an attack of his own and fired off an Aura Sphere. Dialga stumbled as the attack struck but managed to stay standing. The massive dragon then reared back and let out an earth shattering roar. Mewtwo and Angewomon were slammed by a shock-wave ad both crashed to the ground, both reverting back to their previous forms.

“W-What was that,” Gatomon asked, her head spinning.

“Dialga's Roar of Time,” Mewtwo said, shaking his head to clear it. “It's incredibly powerful and it can turn time backwards. That's why we reverted back.”

At that moment, they're other companions crashed to the ground next to them, Taomon and SaberLeomon De-Digivolving.

“Renamon,” Mewtwo said, staggering over towards her.

“They're...too strong,” Renamon gasped. “How do we stop them?”

“If we could just remove those chains, then they would return to normal,” Leomon said.

“Good luck with that,” Gatomon said. “By the way, where are Uxie and the others? I haven't seen any sign of them.”

“I saw them speaking with Emperor Leomon, but then he attacked them,” BlackTigramon said. “I haven't seen them since. No doubt they tried to reason with him.”

Mewtwo helped Renamon to her feet and then gazed up at Emperor Leomon. The Lion Digimon stared down at them, a fierce smile on his face.

“Perhaps we should deal with him,” Mewtwo suggested. “If he's gone, then maybe his hold over Palkia and Dialga will be broken.”

“It won't be easy,” Leomon said. “He's a Mega Level Digimon and quite powerful. And considering how much damage we've taken in the fight with Palkia and Dialga, we wouldn't survive against him.”

“I think our best bet is to do what Leomon suggested and remove those chains,” BlackTigramon spoke up. “The dragons may end up attacking Emperor Leomon and might even destroy him.”

Before they could devise a plan, the two dragons approached, ready to resume the battle. Everyone stood ready, prepared to fight to the last, when, surprisingly, Emperor Leomon halted Palkia and Dialga.

“Palkia! Dialga! Cease,” he yelled. The two dragons stopped where they were. Emperor Leomon turned his attention to the group below. “Before I let my new servants finish you off, I want you to witness my triumph. Palkia, Dialga, use your powers over Time and Space! Open a door to the Digital World so that my army may enter this world!”

The two dragons roared and then a massive vortex appeared in midair....


In the Digital World, Pantheramon watched as the temporal gate opened up before him and the waiting Feralmon. He turned to his troops.

“Our leader awaits us in the human world! Forward! We march to conquer a new world!”

Pantheramon and his troops moved out, passing through the vortex.



Elsewhere, IceLeopardmon and Lynxmon were in the lab, watching from the computer monitor.

“And so it begins,” IceLeopardmon said, standing up. “Come, Lynxmon. We have much to do.”

“Right behind you,” Lynxmon replied.



Back on Spear Pillar, Mewtwo and his Digimon friends watched as Pantheramon emerged, a vast army of Feralmon right behind them. The army halted just below the ledge, all eyes on their leader.

“Welcome, my loyal servants,” Emperor Leomon greeted them. “Our time is at hand! The Human World is ours for the taking!” His gaze shifted to Mewtwo and the Digimon. “And as our first priority: Destroy those who would stand in our way!”

Pantheramon and the Feralmon all turned towards Mewtwo and the Digimon, weapons drawn, and then advanced upon them.



End of Chapter Twenty-One...