Credit goes to LazerWulf for beta-reading this chapter, and to him, Ninetalesuk, Belletiger, and others I have yet to mention for allowing me to use their respective characters.
A/N: Yeah, this was actually supposed to be just a long single chapter. But, I decided to split this up into two parts. I hope you don't mind. At least there's a ton of fighting to make up for it.
Let's see who gets the Claws first. Enjoy!
xxxxx
Chapter 14
Breach the Phoenix Gates! Claws of Valmarmon Found!
xxxxx
Outside the Phoenix Gates/8:39 AM
"There's someone up there!" ShineGreymon called out.
"Yeah, just now figuring that out, are you? You're a dense one," BioDarkdramon snidely remarked as he watched the ominous figure descend in front of Madoudramon.
Madoudramon scoffed. "Daimaomon, I thought you'd given up looking for the Claws. I've already taken care of you once before."
Finally revealed, Daimaomon presented himself formally and bowed. He pivoted his head, addressing to Madoudramon.
"Thanks to you and those humans, my group and I have utilized this occasion to take what we need," Daimaomon's smile broadened into a wicked grin. A long, snake-like tongue slithered out between his two sharp fangs. "I didn't come alone. My men have already scattered to engage the others."
"This isn't the time for you to avenge your pitiful loss to me, Daimaomon. Let it go," Madoudramon demanded.
"I'll defeat you and take the Claws of Valmarmon to augment my own power!" Daimaomon declared as he flew toward Madoudramon and shot two beams out of his palms. "Daimao-ku Crusher!!"
As the beam shot toward him, Madoudramon evaded the beam and let it freely fly toward the trio behind him.
"HEADS UP!!" Masaru shouted.
ShineGreymon and BioDarkdramon caught the beam with their blades, redirecting it toward Daimaomon. The Mao King flew out of the beam's direction and allowed it to blast through the Phoenix Gates, ripping through the reinforced door that protected the sacred passageway from outside forces.
"So, it seems the defensive barriers are down," Daimaomon chuckled deeply as he witnessed his own attack redirected and used as a battering ram to destroy Phoenix Gate. "Once every digicycle, the defense barriers are lowered in order to conserve energy and re-enhance the barriers. Right, Madoudramon? Your timing has always been so annoyingly precise and accurate."
"Yes, but don't think you'll find the piece right away once you enter. It's not sitting out in the open like the Destiny Stones from Azulongmon's world," the dark purple-armored knight assessed. "In any case, thank you. Now, you've granted me easier access."
"Heh, think again, fool," Daimaomon snarled as he launched himself at Madoudramon. "The Claws are mine!" With that, he raised his right hand and fired another demonic-powered beam at his adversary. "Daimao-ku Crusher!!"
While a dark fire aura shrouded him, Madoudramon countered by unleashing a dark dragon of flames. "Zorn du Drago!!"
While the two attacks collided, they nullified one another. Daimaomon glided right in front of Madoudramon and punched him in the face. Madoudramon turned his head, letting Daimaomon's fist miss narrowly.
"They're... fighting each other?!" Masaru was dumbstruck by this sudden event. "Hey, the gate is open! Let's move!"
"Right! Let's go!" ShineGreymon called out as he dove toward the gate.
"I'll get to it first!" BioDarkdramon roared.
Just as the two mega digimon dove closer toward the gate, they collided into each other. ShineGreymon and BioDarkdramon knocked one another back, causing the two to glare at each other with anger.
"Hey, watch where you're doing!" BioDarkdramon roared. "Masaru, your stupid partner had to get in my way!"
"You should've let us by first! ShineGreymon's faster!"
ShineGreymon raised his sword and pointed it toward BioDarkdramon. "This is our chance! We can't be arguing now!"
"Shut your mouth! I can get through the gate first! I'll find that piece before they do!" BioDarkdramon snapped.
While the trio exchanged heated words, Madoudramon and Daimaomon faced each other with bemused glances. Their perplexed looks shifted into a sly, devilish intentions.
"I sense some dissension in the ranks, Daimaomon," Madoudramon whispered.
The Mao King furrowed his brows while rubbing his chin. "Indeed, but their problems have nothing to do with us."
"Yes, it does. This is our chance to seize the piece from right under their noses," Madoudramon stated, piercing a cold glare into Daimaomon's eyes.
Daimaomon seized Madoudramon by his right arm and gathered a ball of dark energy in one hand.
"Let's put our differences aside, Daimaomon. We shouldn't be opposing each other. Our common enemy lies in front of us. We must tear their team dynamics apart, Daimaomon! Think about it... once we have the Claws, Lord Valmarmon will give you anything you desire. He'll even grant you an army, land, and power as accommodations. All you need to do... is help us... help me. Any differences we might have had in the past... let's put it all aside."
Daimaomon held a tighter grip on Madoudramon's arm until he dropped his arm. As his dark energy ball faded, the Mao King lowered his guard and looked Madoudramon directly into his eyes.
"Let's nip this bud immediately, Daimaomon. What do you say?"
As Madoudramon extended his right hand forward, Daimaomon gawked at his rival's hand. The Madoudramon camp formally proposed a truce to one of the seven Mao Kings. Naturally, Daimaomon would've turned down any offer given to him, but there was more to offer from this proposition. Daimaomon was the type who would only join an alliance if it benefited him.
"Daimaomon, what's your answer?" Madoudramon inquired, impatiently waiting his rival's answer.
Daimaomon stood afloat silently and crossed his arms. "..."
xxxxx
"What in the Digital World's name...?!" Imperialdramon shouted as he, Suzakato, and HiSuzakumon watched as humanoid snake arrived on a hover board. "Wait, I know you!"
A perplexed Suzakato gawked toward Vipermon. "Who is this guy, Imperialdramon? You know him?"
"He's one of Daimaomon's most loyal soldiers," the Dra-Warrior proclaimed. "Vipermon, so, you and Daimaomon are here. I suspect you're after the Claws of Valmarmon as well?"
Vipermon laughed between his forced hisses. "Correct. We're here to claim the artifact that you all seek. It'll become property of Lord Daimaomon soon enough."
"Daimaomon...? Wait, you mean..." Suzakato reflected on one of Granasmon and Huanglongmon's final warnings about the Mao Kings. "One of the seven Mao Kings? Aw, nuts. You mean... we just stumbled into their turf?!"
"HiSuzakumon scoffed as he heatedly pointed toward Vipermon. "You wish to delay my lord's resurrection? I won't allow that."
"Get bent. Valmarmon's best days are behind him. Lord Daimaomon's going to be running this Digital Realm," Vipermon cackled, flicking his forked tongue out. "Your groups are in our way. You'd best stand aside... unless you want to pick a fight with us!"
"To keep you from getting the Claws, then we'd be happy to oblige!" Suzakato roared as he flew ahead and launched a barrage of fire blasts at Vipermon. "Firepalm Bombardment!!" He called out, utilizing one of his newest variations of the Firepalm Blast.
"Viper Spit!!" The snake retaliated as he spat venomous saliva, which engulfed the fire balls and nullified them. "Nice try."
"Then, try this!" Suzakato roared as he rocketed forward and threw his right fist across, which Vipermon evaded by maneuvering his hovercraft around. "Missed?!"
Vipermon opened his mouth and pulled a blade out of it. He readied his weapon and flew in to impale Suzakato.
"Positron Laser!!"
Suddenly, a beam accompanied by a resounding boom shot toward Vipermon. The hovercraft-riding digimon swayed his vehicle around, barely evading the massive beam heading toward him. The beam passed through into the air, cutting through the serene white clouds. Vipermon slowly turned his hovercraft as HiSuzakumon appeared in front of him. HiSuzakumon seized Vipermon's neck and clenched tightly, causing the snake digimon to cringe and gasp.
"Hey... let go..."
"I'll cut you a deal. Why don't you work with us? We're both after the same thing and we have common enemies..."
Vipermon scoffed between his shallow breaths. "...yeah... like we'd work for... you... trash..."
HiSuzakumon tightened his grip.
"ACK!" Vipermon gasped.
"I believe your esteemed leader is already cutting a deal with Madoudramon," HiSuzakumon smirked, which was accompanied with an evil chuckle. "Besides, it seems there are those within your camp..." The Demon Beast turned toward Suzakato and Imperialdramon, referring to three of their teammates. "I wonder. Can your teammates truly co-exist?"
Vipermon blinked and shifted his view toward Suzakato. "If this is true, then your team has a few kinks you might need to work on."
"NONSENSE!!" Imperialdramon roared as his entire body glowed a white aura of light. "Imperialdramon... Mode Change!!" Within a few seconds, the dragon turned into a bipedal behemoth with his Positron Cannon mounted on his right arm. "Fighter Mode!!"
"Don't listen to that guy, Takato!" Davis shouted from atop of Imperialdramon's right shoulder. "He's obviously trying to pull a few strings!"
"How dare he insinuate that there's dissension in our team!" Ken exclaimed.
Imperialdramon Fighter Mode turned toward HiSuzakumon and Vipermon.
"You're right! How dare you try and knock us off our game!" Suzakato cried out as he flew toward HiSuzakumon. Clenching his right fist, a fire aura engulfed him and allowed him to propel forward.
"Stupid boy..." HiSuzakumon scoffed as he prepared to launch another fire arrow.
"Allow me!" Vipermon hissed while pressing a switch on his hover board, which unlocked and released ten rockets from a compartment.
As the missiles flew toward Suzakato, the Warrior of Suzaku stopped and blasted them with his Firepalm Bombardment.
Raising both hands into the air, HiSuzakumon's body was imbued with a bright red aura. The peaceful, blue skies turned red and the clouds turned black, as if the scenery shifted into a horrifying imagery akin to Hell itself. Then, HiSuzakumon dropped both arms and summoned a downpour of flames from the dark clouds.
"Rain of Fire!!" HiSuzakumon shouted as he brought down a downpour of scorching flames down on Imperialdramon and Suzakato.
"WHAT?! FLAMING RAIN?!" Davis panicked, his eyes and mouth gaped in bewilderment.
"Takato! Can you try and absorb that?!" Ken called out.
"I can, but..." Suzakato whirled around as Vipermon moved in and struck him with his long, prehensile tail. "Uh!" The Warrior of Suzaku was knocked right into Imperialdramon's waiting arms.
"HANG ON!!" Imperialdramon roared as he raised his right arm. His cannon produced a barrier, which shielded him, Davis, Ken, and Suzakato from HiSuzakumon's attack.
As more fire bombarded Imperialdramon, the Dra-Warrior leader descended to the ground. Lifting his head, Imperialdramon counterattacked with his Positron Laser. As the condensed beam blasted through the fiery precipitation, HiSuzakumon swayed to the side. Evading Imperialdramon's beam, HiSuzakumon rocketed up as Vipermon followed up into the air.
"Hm, seems they're more trouble than I initially thought," Vipermon observed the Imperialdramon and Suzakato. "So, Lord Daimaomon is forging an alliance with your leader?"
"Madoudramon wishes to make a truce," HiSuzakumon stated. "I can read his thoughts. He and Daimaomon are close to an agreement. What do you say? Your enemy is our enemy."
"You're right. As much as I loathe Madoudramon, I can understand where he's coming from," Vipermon nodded. "All right. I'm in, but the others might not be so convinced."
"We'll let them be the judge of that," HiSuzakumon said as he flew off toward the direction to the Phoenix Gate. "Follow me!"
Vipermon didn't hesitate as he flew his hover board, following HiSuzakumon's path.
"Where are those two chickens going?!" The Digi-Destined of Miracles snarled angrily. "Let's go after them, Imperialdramon!"
"They're heading toward the location of the Claws!" Ken said.
Suzakato shook his head and flew out of Imperialdramon's hands. "Then that's where we're going! Follow them!"
xxxxx
"Ugh!" WarGreymon and Piedmon were knocked back by two swift hand strikes.
Their attacker was Slicermon, who ambushed the two digimon before they had a chance to settle their score. Slicermon stood atop of a rock pedestal and tilted his head, staring over the fallen Piedmon.
"You..." An incensed Piedmon raised his head. He angrily glared at Slicermon and picked up a sword. "You're Slicermon, one of Daimaomon's soldiers. I knew I sensed something foul nearby." As he stood upright, Piedmon threw his swords at Slicermon.
The finger-bladed digimon rotated around in response. Piedmon's swords ricocheted off his finger blades. Slicermon lunged toward Piedmon and engaged blows with the Dark Master. Piedmon somersaulted away, picking up one of his swords. As Piedmon thrust his sword upward, Slicermon's hand blades parried the Dark Master's sword. Slicermon seized Piedmon's weapon and threw it aside. Slicermon brought down his finger claws over Piedmon.
"Any last words, Piedmon?"
"...Clown Trick!!"
Fwoom!
Piedmon repelled Slicermon, sending a magical beam into him. The finger-bladed digimon was knocked into the air and landed on the ground, crouched on all fours. Piedmon stood his ground while fiercely glaring down Slicermon.
WarGreymon stood up, raising his head. Befuddled by the situation, he glanced around and noted Slicermon on the opposite side of the area.
"Slicermon?! Then, that means...!" WarGreymon noted as he sprang to his feet and readily faced Slicermon's direction. "Daimaomon, he's..."
"Lord Daimaomon has come to claim what's rightfully his," Slicermon chortled while licking his claw fingers. "The Claws of Valmarmon."
"Sorry, but finders keepers," Piedmon snorted as he magically summoned another set of dual swords in his hands. "Neither Daimaomon nor these digi-fools are taking the Claws. That's reserved only for me and Madoudramon."
"Not on my watch!" WarGreymon roared as he lunged at Piedmon, who jumped up out of the warrior's reach. As WarGreymon came into blows with Slicermon, the two exchanged claw strikes. "I'll never let one of the Mao Kings get his hands on that artifact!"
Slicermon parried WarGreymon's strikes. "Too bad he's already near the Phoenix Gate. Try and stop him if you can!"
Meanwhile, Tai overheard the trio's exchange of words. He heard everything pertaining to Daimaomon and his apparent plan to obtain the Claws of Valmarmon. He closed in, hiding behind stones.
"Daimaomon?" Tai whispered. Right. Weren't we warned about these Mao Kings?
Suddenly, WarGreymon and Piedmon watched as Slicermon sprang into mid-air. The finger-clawed digimon curled into a ball and launched himself across the wasteland. He hurried across the landscape, rolling toward the Phoenix Gates. WarGreymon and Piedmon immediately pursued Slicermon. Piedmon blasted WarGreymon back with a Clown Trick and raced ahead, leaving WarGreymon behind.
"Darn... you... Piedmon!" WarGreymon growled.
"WarGreymon!" Tai emerged from his hiding spot and ran by his partner's side. "We have to go after them."
"Madoudramon and Daimaomon are over there. No doubt there's going to be a throwdown between those two to claim the Claws."
"This has turned into a three-way race," the Digi-Destined of Courage asserted as he jumped on WarGreymon's back. "We need to catch up! Step on it, WarGreymon!"
Nodding in reply, WarGreymon rocketed into the air and pursued the two villains. Initially boosting his flight speed, WarGreymon closed in on Piedmon and Slicermon's direction. Tai noticed Daimaomon and Madoudramon facing each other whilst in mid-air near the Phoenix Gate.
"There's the Phoenix Gate!"
"But it's been breached, Tai!" WarGreymon replied. "That's not all. I see Daimaomon and Madoudramon. No, could we be too late?"
xxxxx
Gallantmon and ChaosGallantmon ceased their battle as a humanoid mantis digimon arrived. Mantoidmon momentarily garnered the knights' attention and took off flying toward the Phoenix Gate.
"If you wish to take the Claws of Valmarmon, face Lord Daimaomon at the Phoenix Gate, if you dare!" Mantoidmon buzzed while gliding off into the distance.
"Daimaomon's arrived?! No! We won't be denied the Claws of Valmarmon!" ChaosGallantmon exclaimed as he followed Mantoidmon's direction. "Brother, stop me if you can!"
Gallantmon looked up as he noticed Suzakato flying ahead toward the Phoenix Gate. "Takato?! He's going the same way!" Wasting no time, the Exalted Knight hurried up and picked up the pace while following Suzakato's direction. I can feel a lot of activity nearby! They've must have finally opened the Phoenix Gates! We can't allow Madoudramon's group or Daimaomon's cronies take the Claws of Valmarmon! Takato, we can't afford to let either of those guys steal the Claws!
Rejuvenated with the sheer desire to stop the enemy, Gallantmon accelerated his pace and steadily ran through the desolate landscape. Nothing would keep Gallantmon from reaching the Phoenix gate even if it meant battling both Madoudramon and Daimaomon.
xxxxx
"Look out!" Andromon warned Kazu and Silvermon as a barrage of black hearts hurdled toward them.
"Heartache!!" WyvernMonzaemon roared while producing black heart bubbles out his potbelly gut.
The group scattered while avoiding being hit by the black hearts. Even Atolmdramon dodged the black heart bubbles and blew flames to destroy the bubbles. WyvernMonzaemon pressed one foot down while his entire frame vanished in the blink of an eye. The giant bear reappeared in front of Andromon, Kazu, and Silvermon. He raised his giant right paw and swung down, smashing the ground into rubble. The trio sprang up, avoiding close contact with the larger monster.
"Hmmm? Running away?!" WyvernMonzaemon frowned, furrowing his brows. As he crouched over, she jumped and catapulted himself into mid-air - much to the trio's dismay. "You won't get away!"
"WAH! This bear's something else!" Kazu exclaimed.
Silvermon lunged at WyvernMonzaemon and produced a condensed beam through one of his mirrors. "Mirror Shot!!"
As the beam struck WyvernMonzaemon, it knocked him across the air. Andromon rocketed upward and unleashed a barrage of missiles, which bombarded the wicked bear. While the initial battle continued, Atolmdramon seized this opportunity to scurry off toward the Phoenix Gate.
"Hey! That creep is getting away!" Kazu heatedly pointed toward the dragon, who raced off on foot. "Follow him!"
Propelled by boosters underneath his feet, Andromon flew forward. He dropped down to pick up Kazu and Silvermon, who landed on the ground after WyvernMonzaemon was taken down. The trio headed off into the distance, following Atolmdramon.
WyvernMonzaemon slowly got off the ground where he crashed. He quickly dusted himself off and pivoted his head, facing the direction the trio was heading. The bear sprang twenty feet across. He repeated this process, hastening his pace as means to catching up to the group.
"Neither of you will stop Lord Daimaomon's rise!" WyvernMonzaemon shouted while continually pursuing his adversaries.
xxxxx
KaiserGreymon, Phillipe, and Artemismon cut through the Bakemon and Vilemon remnants. However, in their place, an army of black, shadowy figures that lacked any distinct features, save for subtle gray outlines to distinguish them from the background. Most of them stood upright while a few crouched over with distinctive hunchbacks. The only real distinctive features were their crimson eyes.
These black, soulless creatures, a writhing mass of them, came right out of the woodwork with a single purpose in mind: to kill their enemies, no matter who they are.
All of them were armed with swords.
"So, tell me. Who are these freaks, Artemismon?" KaiserGreymon inquired, carefully eyeing the black-bodied creatures.
"YamiSenshimon. They're the foot soldiers serving Daimaomon, one of the seven Mao Kings," Artemismon affirmed as two YamiSenshimon closed in toward her and Phillipe.
Phillipe nodded. "There's a lot of them, but nothing we can't handle."
"Watch out, Phillipe-kun!"
As a YamiSenshimon sprang forward, Phillipe spun around the sword-wielding shadow warrior, forming a funnel cloud that picked up and launched the warrior into the air. Artemismon fired an arrow, blasting through a horde of YamiSenshimon. Other YamiSenshimon avoided the burst of holy light produced by the arrow and scattered. They quickly formed a circle around Artemismon, who didn't seem deterred by their tactical formation.
The Amazon rushed the YamiSenshimon, kicking one down and backhanding another. A YamiSenshimon jumped on her back, but she quickly threw him off. She turned and punched yet another YamiSenshimon down.
"I don't even need my arrows to fight these creeps! C'mon!" Artemismon shouted a battle cry as she flew up into the air and dove through the YamiSenshimon hordes.
KaiserGreymon roared as he swung his sword overheard, spinning it rapidly. He dropped the sword, gathering enough energy to produce a crossbow-like weapon. Mounting his weapon, he let loose destructive fire at the YamiSenshimon. "Dragonfire Crossbow!!" Clearing the path, he let Artemismon and Phillipe free entry toward the Phoenix Gates.
"Go, guys! I'll cover you!" KaiserGreymon barked an order as he distracted the other YamiSenshimon.
"Let's head toward the Phoenix Gate, Artemismon!"
"Grab my hand!" She called out.
Picking up his pace, Phillipe raced ahead as he watched Artemismon lowering over him. She extended her right hand and waited for Phillipe to grab. The boy sprang up, grabbing a hold of Artemismon's free hand while the Amazon flew ahead carrying him. Artemismon pulled the weight of Phillipe and carried him in her arms. KaiserGreymon caught up to the duo as he flew alongside them.
"They're coming, but they can't reach us as long as we're aerial," KaiserGreymon affirmed.
"Thank you, KaiserGreymon. You too, Artemismon."
"Anything for you, Phillipe-kun," she smiled, her cheeks flushed. Taking her mind off Phillipe, she stared ahead at the Phoenix Gate. "We're getting closer!"
"That's the Phoenix Gate? It's so majestic and beautiful," the boy stated, his eyes widened and was enthralled by the ancient monument. "Wait, the gates..."
Artemismon replied. "...they're open. Look!"
Narrowly shifting his view ahead, KaiserGreymon added. "The enemy has breached them!"
"And I see our friends!" Phillipe pointed out to Suzakato, Gallantmon, Imperialdramon Fighter Mode, ShineGreymon, BioDarkdramon, and company. "We've just arrived in the middle of the battle!"
"Get ready, Phillipe-kun," the Amazon said while she descended toward the battlefield. "And we didn't come alone." Shifting her eyes back, she noticed the YamiSenshimon scattered through the landscape in a massive flood of blackness. "Let's do what we can and enter the gates."
"I know!" Phillipe exclaimed while shifting his view toward the heated battlegrounds.
"Here we come, guys!" KaiserGreymon roared out, reaching the outskirts near the Phoenix Gates.
xxxxx
In the meantime, ShineGreymon and BioDarkdramon continued to exchange heated words. Masaru attempted to intervene on behalf of ShineGreymon, but he was greeted with a tail swipe from BioDarkdramon. It became evidently clear that Madoudramon was accurate in his assumption.
There was dissension in the Digiteam's ranks. No amount of pleading would let cooler heads prevail between the 'battle hungry' trio.
"C'mon, the gate is right in front of us!" ShineGreymon exclaimed as he raced through the broken entry.
Suddenly, assorted beams shot from above and bombarded the ground in front of ShineGreymon. ShineGreymon stepped back while balancing his largely framed body. Masaru whirled around as he watched Daimaomon descending from the skies with Madoudramon. BioDarkdramon readied his long blade and fiercely gazed at the two villains.
"What now?!" Masaru snapped.
"Heh, it seems I've had a change of heart," Daimaomon smirked evilly as he turned and faced Madoudramon. "I've come to the realization that I shouldn't be opposing someone who shares my views towards you. If there's anything that I abhor more than Madoudramon, it's..." He paused momentarily and put his right hand out, forming a ball of energy in his palm. "...humans and partner digimon."
"What are you... ah, damn. You've got to be kidding me!" Masaru shouted as he realized that a new 'unholy' alliance was formed right away. "You two just formed an alliance?!"
"We have different reasons for acquiring the Claws of Valmarmon," the Mao King said. "But, that doesn't change the fact we have common enemies. Ever heard the old saying,'the enemy of my enemy is my friend'?"
"Now, you three are in the way. Be gone," Madoudramon raised his blade overhead.
"YOU TWO STAY AWAY FROM THAT GATE!!" Imperialdramon's roar boomed out from the distance.
Everyone whirled around as Imperialdramon (carrying Davis and Ken) and Suzakato arrived at the scene. However, HiSuzakumon and Vipermon arrived at the same time. Piedmon, Slicermon, and WarGreymon (carrying Tai) also arrived following HiSuzakumon and Vipermon. More of the group members filed right in. Mantoidmon, ChaosGallantmon, and Gallantmon arrived at the scene just in time. Atolmdramon, Kazu, Andromon, Silvermon, and WyvernMonzaemon joined in as the front Phoenix Gate was quickly being crowded. Finally, KaiserGreymon, Artemismon, and Phillipe arrived with the YamiSenshimon.
"Well, well, so, it seems all the players have arrived," Madoudramon smirked evilly as he shifted his view toward everyone. "Now things will become even more unpredictable."
"Indeed, which one will take the Claws of Valmarmon?" Daimaomon folded his arms as he nodded to his four main clansmen. "Devil Clan! Come forth!"
Upon hearing their leader summon them, Vipermon jumped up. Then, Mantoidmon, Slicermon, and WyvernMonzaemon jumped right in one by one. Finally, the YamiSenshimon scurried forward as they formed a barricade encompassing Daimaomon and his men.
"Humans and digimon pets, you've come far! But, this is where you end!" Daimaomon roared out, declaring a premature victory against the Digiteam.
ChaosGallantmon, Atolmdramon, Piedmon, and HiSuzakumon sprang forward as they assembled a line formation in front of Madoudramon.
"And don't forget us," Madoudramon asserted.
Befuddled by what was transpiring, Slicermon asked Daimaomon inquisitively. "What's this all about? I thought Madoudramon's group was our enemy, too?"
"Change of plans," Daimaomon declared. "Madoudramon, consider this unholy alliance of ours a done deal. It's them against our two amassed forces."
"Indeed. They don't have a chance," Madoudramon replied. "Well, Tamers? What do you and your friends have to say? Can you possibly think you have any chance of ensnaring the Claws of Valmarmon?"
Suzakato rebuked angrily. "Of course, we do! Even if you creeps just decided to forge this alliance, we'll plow right through you!"
Gallantmon added. "That's right!" Lifting his holy lance, the Exalted Knight heatedly pointed it toward the two digi-villain groups. "I have faith we'll get the Claws first!"
Madoudramon chuckled as his eyes glowed behind his visor. "I beg to differ, especially if three of your teammates can't seem to get along. Do I sense dissension in your unit? Hmmm?"
Befuddled, Imperialdramon glanced at his team. "What's he talking about?"
"Who's not getting along?!" Davis exclaimed. "No, I don't see how that's possible."
"He's right! What gives?!" KaiserGreymon inquisitively asked, demanding an immediate answer from his group.
BioDarkdramon scoffed as he narrowed his eyes darkly at Masaru and ShineGreymon. "Why don't you ask those two? They can tell you all you need to-"
"Can it, Kouki!" Masaru snapped, further eliciting a heated exchange between himself and the Bio-Hybrid.
"C'mon, you two! Cut it out!" Tai barked at Masaru and BioDarkdramon.
"We're supposed to be on the same page here!" WarGreymon shouted.
Suzakato snarled. "We should be taking our fight to the enemy!"
"Heh, I guess you can't deny it anymore, eh?" ChaosGallantmon chuckled alongside his cohorts. "Right?"
Madoudramon levitated off the group as he passed through the entrance first. "Shall we begin? If you wish to fight amongst yourselves, that'll make it easy for me and Daimaomon. We will conquer the day."
Shifting his attention back on the evil digimon, Suzakato promptly flew ahead. He threw a punch, imbued with mystic flames, at Madoudramon. The dark purple-armored knight caught Suzakato's fist until he whisked his hand away. Madoudramon glided back while Suzakato rocketed toward him with the intent to punch a hole through him.
"NOT ON YOUR LIFE!! LET'S GET THEM, GUYS!! AND STICK TOGETHER!!" The Warrior of Suzaku roared as he and Madoudramon quickly exchanged blows.
Imperialdramon Fighter Mode, WarGreymon, Gallantmon, and KaiserGreymon led the charge with the others accompanying them. They quickly engaged the newly formed Hydra alliance, preventing them from finding the Claws. Just as Suzakato came within Madoudramon's range, HiSuzakumon interjected and headbutted Suzakato's left side. The Demon Beast knocked Suzakato back, sending him crashing through a stone column.
HiSuzakumon hovered over Suzakato's fallen body, eyeing the Warrior of Suzaku discreetly.
"You take care of him, HiSuzakumon!" Madoudramon ordered the Demon Beast. As he whirled around, he flew ahead to locate the Claws. He pulled out a small compact device, which projected a detailed map of the facility. The device is picking up a high energy source. It has to be it! The Claws of Valmarmon are nearby! If it weren't for this device Charon-sama provided, we couldn't have even found this place!
"No...! Get back here!" Suzakato shouted as he stood up... only to have his path blocked by HiSuzakumon. "You again!"
"Sorry, but Madoudramon can't play with you now," HiSuzakumon chuckled. "Don't take it the wrong way. He's left me to deal with you."
Suzakato growled as he lunged forward and pushed HiSuzakumon into a wall. "Gallantmon! Someone go after Madoudramon!"
Overhearing his partner's plea, Gallantmon answered. "I'm on it, Takato!"
Suddenly, ChaosGallantmon directly interjected and pushed Gallantmon back with a shoulder tackle. Gallantmon grunted as he was knocked back and prevented from pursuing Madoudramon.
ShineGreymon quickly answered Suzakato's plea and headed off after Madoudramon. "We'll get him! Ready, Masaru?!"
"Let's move!" Masaru exclaimed as ShineGreymon propelled himself into the air and followed Madoudramon's direction.
BioDarkdramon took off after the two, propelling himself ahead. "You're not taking all the glory! Wait up!"
"Thanks... guys!" Suzakato shouted as he turned, his body became imbued with an aura of fire. Enhanced by his mystic fire, the Warrior of Suzaku's strength was augmented and it allowed him to punch HiSuzakumon. "Phoenix Fist!!" One punch sent HiSuzakumon flying across and crashing through a stone stairway.
As the stairs gave way, the piles of debris fell and buried HiSuzakumon.
"You give us phoenix warriors a bad name," Suzakato remarked, clenching his burning right fist. He turned and glided off directly following the corridor Madoudramon took. Probing a source of sinister power from afar, Suzakato shuddered while propelling through a hallway leading toward Madoudramon. "He's getting close! Masaru! ShineGreymon! Kouki!" Don't you three end up fighting amongst yourselves. The Claws of Valmarmon can't be taken at any cost!
xxxxx
Within the Phoenix Gates/8:56 AM
Daimaomon flew up as he bombarded the sacred arena with energy blasts. WarGreymon scattered while evading the barrage of blasts. The blasts tore and dissolved anything it came in contact with, including red crystallized figures and the beautiful decorum that filled the entire arena.
"This guy might be too much just for us, WarGreymon!" Tai exclaimed as he watched Daimaomon firing more blasts.
WarGreymon growled as he watched Piedmon waiting for them thirty feet below. "There's Piedmon, too."
"This whole alliance of theirs threw us for a loop! As if Madoudramon's group was bad enough..."
"Don't worry, Tai. We'll get the Claws before they do," WarGreymon reassured his partner while revolving his body, maneuvering around Daimaomon's stray blasts. "ShineGreymon and Masaru went after Madoudramon."
Tai sighed. "That's the problem. We can't afford to let our team dynamics fell apart. We need to stick together!"
Piedmon overheard Tai's cries and chuckled jovially. "Trouble in paradise? Well, don't worry. Your worries will be allayed once we take the Claws." Putting his hands together, the Dark Master produced a magical blast and fired it at WarGreymon. "Clown Trick!!"
"Heads up, WarGreymon!"
As he pivoted forward, WarGreymon countered by throwing an energy sphere through his hands. "Terra Force!!" The warrior bellowed out harshly as he threw the energy sphere toward Piedmon's attack.
The two attacks collided, exploding altogether as they meshed together. Daimaomon took advantage of WarGreymon's momentary distraction and flew in front of the brave warrior. Daimaomon fired a barrage of blasts, which bombarded the warrior. Daimaomon followed up his fierce assault with a kick, sending WarGreymon crashing to the bottom. Piedmon hurriedly dashed forward, throwing an assortment of Trump Swords. Springing to his feet, WarGreymon (with Tai still clinging to his back) swiftly moving around the swords. With quick reflexes, he blocked one sword by raising his left-armed gauntlet. Piedmon launched another Clown Trick. WarGreymon evaded the incoming energy beam.
"You're quick when you need to be!" Piedmon laughed as he raised his arms. A giant smoke cloud erupted from out of his hands as a giant white sheet magically appeared. "I think it's time to restart my keychain collection! You two will be first!" Waving his right hand, Piedmon 'telepathically' sent the giant sheet forward.
WarGreymon readied his Dramon Killers. "Hang on tight, Tai!"
"Wait, you're not thinking... WAAHH!!"
"Brave Tornado!!" WarGreymon roared, revolving his entire body at supersonic speed and turned into a giant tornado. He rocketed forward, shredding his way through the sheet while ripping it into thousands of tattered pieces.
Piedmon scowled. "Blast it."
Suddenly, Daimaomon flew from the ceiling as he propelled toward WarGreymon. WarGreymon ceased his Brave Tornado attack as Daimaomon stretched his right arm across. Seizing WarGreymon's left forearm, the Mao King pulled his adversary forward and threw a punch forward. WarGreymon lowered his head, letting Daimaomon's fist punch through the air. The brave warrior brought his head up, executing a headbutt to the Devil Clan leader's jaw. Daimaomon staggered back whilst his head snapped up.
WarGreymon sprang back, fiercely glaring down his two enemies.
On his right, Piedmon summoned his Trump Swords.
On his left, Daimaomon adjusted his head and formed an energy ball in his right hand.
"A Dark Master and a Mao King," WarGreymon scoffed, letting out a few heavy pants as fatigue was kicking in. I don't even have a prayer at this rate. I'd stand a better chance if I was Omegamon now. "Tai, whatever happens... I won't let these two do us in."
Tai shifted his concerns toward his other friends. "I hope the others are okay."
"This is where you two end," Daimaomon formed a wicked smile as he condensed his energy ball into a beam.
As the beam shot forward, a giant hand came out of nowhere and stopped the energy beam.
Much to Piedmon and Daimaomon's shock, Imperialdramon Fighter Mode came at the last minute to rescue WarGreymon and Tai.
"Hey, guys!" Davis shouted, waving down to Tai and WarGreymon.
"Thank goodness! Where are the others?!" The Digi-Destined of Courage asked.
Davis blinked quizzically. "Uh... how should I know? I thought they went after Madoudramon?"
"Only Masaru and ShineGreymon did," Ken said. "Takato's taking care of HiSuzakumon."
"Damn. So, it's up to Masaru and ShineGreymon then. What about Kouki?!"
WarGreymon calmly interjected while glaring down the two enemies. "They'll stop Madoudramon. We have our own hides to worry about now."
Imperialdramon shifted his view forward, readily pointing his right-armed cannon at Daimaomon. "You take Piedmon. I have him."
Daimaomon didn't hesitate to launch an offensive as he fired a barrage of blasts at Imperialdramon. The Dra-Warrior leader crossed his arms, producing a barrier that flickered in front of him. As Daimaomon assaulted Imperialdramon's barrier, Piedmon and WarGreymon locked into battle again.
"Daimao-ku Crusher!!" The Devil Clan leader roared, producing another energy palm blast. He directed it toward Imperialdramon, unloading a series of blasts into the Dra-Warrior's barrier.
Imperialdramon countered. "Positron Laser!!" He fired a massive energy beam, out of his cannon no less, and abruptly cancelled out Daimaomon's blasts.
"Nice shot, Imperialdramon! That cleared the path!" Ken exclaimed.
"Is that all you've got?!" Davis spat out, sticking his tongue out at Daimaomon.
Unfazed by Davis' disparaging remarks toward him, Daimaomon smirked. "Not quite."
As Piedmon went for a vertical slash with a sword, WarGreymon countered by raising his right-armed gauntlet. He quickly seized Piedmon's sword, delivering a kick to Piedmon's side. Piedmon went flying into a wall and fell to one knee.
"Don't let it go to your head, WarGreymon," Piedmon smirked while wiping blood from a cut engraved on his bottom lip. Licking the blood off his hand, the Dark Master spat it out and chuckled. "As long as we can stall you... whatever it takes... the Claws are ripe for the taking. Madoudramon's closer than you think."
"We'll see," WarGreymon growled as he reached out to slash Piedmon. Piedmon narrowly tilted his head and rolled away. The brave warrior whirled around and watched Piedmon hover up into the ceiling.
xxxxx
Abruptly cut off from pursuing Madoudramon, KaiserGreymon engaged himself in a scuffle with Mantoidmon and WyvernMonzaemon. The Z-Hybrid tried to push his way through the two Devil Clan warriors, but to no avail. KaiserGreymon swung his sword, forcing the two to sway back.
"Heartache!!" WyvernMonzaemon said, producing black hearts that glided toward KaiserGreymon.
"Dragonfire Crossbow!!" KaiserGreymon countered, firing repeated blasts that destroyed WyvernMonzaemon's black hearts.
Mantoidmon lunged right at KaiserGreymon, swinging his arms in front of the Z-Hybrid. Lifting KaiserGreymon off the ground, Mantoidmon slammed the Warrior of Flame against the side of a crystallized wall. KaiserGreymon rebounded, delivering a vicious kick to Mantoidmon's face.
While KaiserGreymon recovered his sword, WyvernMonzaemon body slammed himself into the Z-Hybrid. The sheer weight of the giant bear sandwiched KaiserGreymon between the beast and the wall.
"Hehehehe! Not looking so tough, are ya?!" WyvernMonzaemon boasted, laughing at KaiserGreymon's expense.
As he pulled himself off KaiserGreymon, WyvernMonzaemon pulled KaiserGreymon off the wall.
"Shall we finish him, WyvernMonzaemon?"
"Heh. Ok, Mantoidmon!"
Once Mantoidmon and WyvernMonzaemon charged forward, an arrow shot out of nowhere...
Boom!!
In the blink of an eye, a giant hole was blown through Mantoidmon's chest. The mantis mutant coughed and gagged, staring over the gaping hole made from the arrow. Mantoidmon slowly turned his head as Artemismon came into view. The Amazon readily fired another arrow through his chest, widening the gaping wound even further.
"GAH!!" Mantoidmon screeched as he collapsed on the floor. "Lord Daimaomon... I... failed... you..." With that, his body violently twitched before dissolving into data particles.
"No...! Mantoidmon!" WyvernMonzaemon roared. "You...!"
"Pyro Dragons!!"
As WyvernMonzaemon turned, nine fire dragons shot forward and engulfed the giant bear. WyvernMonzaemon roared out his final screams before his entire body dissolved into data.
"Avenge us... Lord Daimaomon..." WyvernMonzaemon's voice echoed freely as his data flew away.
KaiserGreymon caught his breath while Artemismon approached him.
"Are you okay, KaiserGreymon?"
"I'll manage, but where's Phillipe?"
"He's helping Kazu, Silvermon, and the others with the YamiSenshimon. He insisted that I accompany you. We have to find the chamber holding the Claws of Valmarmon. I can sense Madoudramon is getting close to it."
"We have to hurry then!" KaiserGreymon declared as he and Artemismon dashed through the corridor.
Once the two whisked through the corridor and headed down the left path, a figure pulled itself off the wall.
"WyvernMonzaemon, Mantoidmon, you two have failed," the figure muttered as he undid his camouflage, unveiling himself as Slicermon. Slicermon turned around as Vipermon came into view behind him. "They'll lead us right into the chamber. Let's move."
Vipermon added, his voice exuded a hissing tone. "Lead the way."
xxxxx
Madoudramon arrived at the heart of the Phoenix Gates' interior - the Central Core Chamber. His eyes discreetly glared around the encompassing vicinity. The central room was instilled with a serene and calm presence. Red, crystallized monuments filled the room, decorating the halls and the ceilings. Red crystal phoenixes - shaped like the Sovereign of the South, Zhuqiaomon – were lined across a narrow bridge leading to a platform. A red, translucent light beamed over the platform, which was supposed to hold something of important significance - the Claws of Valmarmon.
But the Claws were not there.
"Looking for something?" A voice echoed from across the opposite side of the bridge. A low chuckle accompanied the low, growling voice. "The item you seek is not in its usual place. You, Madoudramon, seek the Claws of Valmarmon - the Demon Digimon God that was vanquished in a battle against Lord Granasmon which lasted seven days and seven nights."
Madoudramon slowly turned around, facing a behemoth of a digimon. The tall figure stood approximately 12 feet tall from first glance. The giant digimon's presence was akin to a legendary warrior from Roman mythology. He wore body armor embellished with a mix of red, orange and yellow colorations. His upper body was built with red armor covering his chest and gray armor plates around his waist. The arms of this warrior were long and covered in bright orange armor while his legs were red. Yellow claw-like protrusions jutted out of his knees. The warrior's hands were equipped with deadly, yellow claws and two orange jewels embedded in his hands; his feet also had four long, protruding claws. The warrior's face was draconian and had a long orange-yellow mane flowing down his back.
"Guardian of the Phoenix Gates and member of the Olympus Twelve," Madoudramon addressed the burly warrior. "It's an honor to meet you, Apollomon."
Scoffing in response, Apollomon didn't take kindly to Madoudramon's greeting. "You'll never find the Claws of Valmarmon here. You'll have to defeat me if you wish to take it." The warrior took on a battle stance, fire quickly expelled out of his forearms and fists. "Zhuqiaomon selected me out of the Olympus Twelve to guard the Claws of Valmarmon. I've been anticipating your arrival."
"The barrier around this place is all but impossible to neutralize, but I didn't have to do it on my own. The inherent weakness in the barrier is that it loses strength over time, so once every digicycle, you and the other digimon confined inside the gates must lower the barrier in order to build it up again. I only had to wait for the right time to launch my attack."
Apollomon narrowed his eyes fiercely. "Taking advantage while the palace was at its most vulnerable. I see. You had this all plotted out."
"Mostly," Madoudramon paced forward, holding his saber in hand. "I did have to forge an alliance with Daimaomon. I need any help I can get to retrieve all seven pieces. You see. A part of my scheme was planned ahead of time, but I also seize any opportunity I see to enhance my chances. Gaining Daimaomon's trust and forging an alliance with that Mao King... worked out much better than I initially thought." He stopped, hefting his saber leisurely. "Not even the Digiteam assigned to arrive here made it in time."
"I still sense the Tamer of Guilmon and the Legendary Warrior of Flame. They and their allies are closing in..."
"I know, but it'll be too late," Madoudramon proclaimed. "Give me the Claws of Valmarmon or this sacred place will be eradicated."
Apollomon angrily growled as he charged with reckless abandon. "I won't have you speak ill of this sacred sanctuary!"
"A master planner I may be, but I still believe in doing battle myself," Madoudramon dashed forward as he brought his saber forward.
Apollomon quickly countered, raising his right arm as Madoudramon's saber hit his metallic bracelet. The burly warrior followed it up, landing a series of empowered fists of fire into Madoudramon. Accompanied by the punches, burst of flames erupted and blasted Madoudramon - who evaded Apollomon's rapid punches.
"Sol Blaster!!" Apollomon roared, completing his combo by firing a orb of solar energy across the bridge.
Madoudramon put his saber in front, which allowed him to forge a shield to protect him from Apollomon's flames.
"Arrow of Apollo!!" The Olympian digimon openly fired red hot arrows from his hand jewels.
Again, Madoudramon stopped Apollomon's attacks by swinging his saber down.
"HOLD IT!!" A pair of voices called out from behind Madoudramon and Apollomon.
The two warriors turned as Masaru and ShineGreymon appeared at the chamber entrance.
"So, you came..." Madoudramon chuckled as he watched ShineGreymon and Masaru advance toward him. "You never cease to amaze me!" He quickly teleported out of Apollomon's reach and sprinted toward the other side of the bridge.
"He's getting away!" ShineGreymon roared as he glided into the air and directly followed Madoudramon.
"You must be with the Tamer named Takato Matsuda and the Legendary Warrior Takuya Kanbara!" Apollomon exclaimed as he watched the two pursue Madoudramon. He raced off after Masaru. "Lord Zhuqiaomon informed me you'd come!"
"Sorry for the rain check, but some bikers got in our way before Madoudramon's crew found us!" Masaru called out as he closed in on Madoudramon. "Get back here!"
As Madoudramon reached the other side of the bridge...
BOOM!!
The second entrance exploded as the force knocked Madoudramon back. Masaru, ShineGreymon, and Apollomon stopped as BioDarkdramon emerged through the open entrance.
"Nice one, BioDarkdramon! Wasn't expecting that!" ShineGreymon said.
Madoudramon pulled himself off the floor. He looked up as BioDarkdramon towered over him. "Fancy seeing you again."
"You're trapped. You've got no place to go," BioDarkdramon declared.
As Madoudramon turned, he watched as Masaru and Apollomon stood at the forefront. ShineGreymon hovered over him from above. BioDarkdramon stood on the opposite side, wielding his long saber. It seemed everything Madoudramon planned was all for naught. His chances of capturing the Claws of Valmarmon were nil.
If that wasn't bad enough, Suzakato passed through the first entrance. The Warrior of Suzaku noticed that the group had Madoudramon firmly barricaded.
"Whoa! You guys got him!" Suzakato exclaimed. "That's great!"
"Oh, I wouldn't be celebrating too soon..." A dark voice whispered behind Suzakato.
BAM!!
Suzakato was sent flying across the bridge following a sucker punch.
HiSuzakumon walked out of the entrance while setting his sights over the fallen Suzakato.
"Oh, good. You came just in time, HiSuzakumon," Madoudramon chuckled.
Suddenly, there was an echoing banshee emanating from within the chamber itself. The group stopped as they listened to the ear-piercing cry filling the enclosed area. Apollomon recognized the cries as one of his own colleagues as he looked up to see a green-skinned goblin, a Shamanmon, rolling in pain. From an aerial view, there were nine bridges lined across the chamber. On the second bridge, the source of the screams came from this goblin. To everyone's shock, the goblin's body grew as it changed into a horrifying monstrosity - a large, 15-foot tall creature that held himself with two claw-like limbs. Its entire body was composed entirely of disgusting claws, all of which protruded out of its body. Two, large yellow eyes opened up, shifting its sights at the amassed group on the bridge.
"...what in the hell?" Masaru gaped, completely horrified by what transpired. "That digimon... he just changed!"
"No, it was just as I feared!" Apollomon exclaimed. "I should've been the one to escape with the Claws! My friend... I'm sorry!"
Madoudramon chuckled. "So, you entrusted one of your own colleagues to escape with the Claws? Did you even think of the consequences of what would happen if one was to let themselves become seduced by Valmarmon's power?"
"No, he'd never let himself become tempted by that monster's dark desire!" Apollomon denied Madoudramon's accusation.
"Hah! Lord Valmarmon can easily manipulate an individual's thoughts if he so wishes. It's well within his power, even if one should divide his essence," Madoudramon proclaimed. "Your friend is gone, Apollomon. In his place is ValClawmon."
"Here he comes, Masaru!" ShineGreymon shouted as ValClawmon leapt off the bridge and landed on the main one where everyone gathered.
Suzakato pulled himself up as he gawked in horror at ValClawmon. "ValClawmon?" So, Valmarmon can possess others in order to transform them into a piece of himself? That digimon... he didn't have any idea what would happen.
"Shall I take care of this, Madoudramon?" HiSuzakumon voluntarily stepped forward, facing ValClawmon.
"No, stand down. This honor should go to me," Madoudramon said as he readied his saber in hand.
"Not on your life!" KaiserGreymon roared out as he and Artemismon stormed across the bridge. Catching a glimpse of ValClawmon, the Z-Hybrid's face contorted with disgust and shock at the overly disgusting sight of ValClawmon. Is... is that thing the Claws of Valmarmon?!
"Takuya!" Suzakato exclaimed as he raced off alongside KaiserGreymon. "We've got to keep Madoudramon away from him!"
Before Madoudramon could advance further, ValClawmon shifted its view toward KaiserGreymon and Suzakato. The mantis-like mutant launched a hundred needle-like projectiles sparking with electricity.
"Thunder Claws!!" ValClawmon shouted as his needles blasted KaiserGreymon and Suzakato.
KaiserGreymon saw the needles coming as he jumped aside. "Almost had me! Watch out, Takato!"
Suzakato swerved around the swarm of needles. He retaliated, firing flame-like bursts through his palms. "Firepalm Blast!!" Clearing the path, Suzakato's flames incinerated the electrical needles. "Go!"
Artemismon screamed a battle cry as she fired an arrow, which split ValClawmon's left arm off. "Yes, got him!"
"Pathetic," ValClawmon chuckled as a new left arm regenerated in place of the old one. "Try this!" He launched a swarm of ice needles at Phillipe's digimon partner. "Freezing Claws!!"
"WHOA!!" Artemismon quickly evaded the swarm of ice needles. She swerved around and flew over ValClawmon's gigantic frame. "So, he can regenerate lost limbs?"
"Let me take a shot!" ShineGreymon shouted as he spread his wings out.
"You're not getting that chance! Let me at him!" BioDarkdramon snapped as he charged toward ValClawmon.
"KOUKI!! WAIT!!" Masaru exclaimed as he jumped onto BioDarkdramon's back. "ShineGreymon can take him!"
"Dark Roar!!" BioDarkdramon bellowed as he expelled a sphere of dark matter at ValClawmon.
Apollomon dashed across as he threw himself in front of BioDarkdramon's attack. "ValClawmon is a colleague possessed by the Claws!" He caught the spinning dark ball with both hands. Grasping the ball, he kicked it up into the ceiling and let it detonate in mid-air. "If anyone's going to remove the Claws out of him, it'll be me!"
"Well, isn't this touching?" ValClawmon chortled evilly while stalking behind Apollomon. "Apollomon, even in desperate situations, you convey compassion for those who serve you." As he raised his front arms, he brought them down... only for Apollomon to catch both arms. "Your colleague, Shamanmon is no more! For I am ValClawmon! I possess the will of Valmarmon himself! Your devotion to Zhuqiaomon means nothing to me. I will be the new god you will devote yourself to. I will establish a foundation which all digimon must construct shrines and pay tribute only to me!"
"We won't let that come to pass!" KaiserGreymon shouted as he jumped behind ValClawmon and impaled the creature's back with his sword.
"AUGGGH!!!" ValClawmon howled with pain as he turned and backhanded KaiserGreymon with his left arm. "The era of light will see its inevitable end! Embrace the impending age of darkness that awaits you all!" The demonic mutant howled accompanied by malicious laughter, filling the entire chamber.
BioDarkdramon prepared to attack until ShineGreymon and Masaru blocked his path.
"Stop right there, BioDarkdramon!" Masaru exclaimed.
"Out of the way, you two!" BioDarkdramon snapped. "We have to destroy him!"
"But, he's just a possessed digimon! We have to save the host!" ShineGreymon retorted.
"Bah! You idiots are soft! It's too late for him!" The Bio-Hybrid growled as he tried to get through ShineGreymon. "Sometimes sacrifices have got to be made!"
"YOU THREE! STOP FIGHTING!" KaiserGreymon snapped as he jumped behind ValClawmon.
"Keep your eye on ValClawmon! We at least have to try to remove the Claws from this digimon!" Suzakato exclaimed, shifting into 'inferno' mode while putting his hands on ValClawmon's back. Suzaku, we can probably try and purify this digimon while removing the Claws out of him!
"Concentrate Takato! This can only be done if we can find the source and remove it out of the creature. Removing the Claws will enable us to purify the digimon and restore him to normal. Granted, there's no guarantee the digimon will even survive. Are you sure you want to do this, Takato?"
After hearing the possibility of the Shamanmon dying, Suzakato was hesitant. He was quickly haunted by the memories of killing Sailor Mars, enabling him to stop Yami Houou. He closed his eyes and gulped, pushing his hands through ValClawmon's back.
"What do you think you're doing?! Heh, you can't save the host I've occupied," ValClawmon chuckled. "He's a lost cause!"
HiSuzakumon seized Suzakato and tried to yank him away, but to no avail. The Warrior of Suzaku held onto ValClawmon firmly as he channeled mystic fire into the mutant. Just as Madoudramon tried to intervene, ShineGreymon and Masaru blocked him from advancing any further. Apollomon stood his ground, wrestling against ValClawmon's mantis-like limbs.
"Time to get rid of you for good, Apollomon!" ValClawmon laughed as projected a brown sphere around the warrior.
Finding himself encased inside a makeshift cage, Apollomon punched from inside the orb. Then, a dreaded-looking claw appeared around the orb and grasped it while preparing to crush Apollomon inside.
"What is he doing?!" KaiserGreymon gazed in horror.
"Say goodbye, Apollomon! No one will miss you! Crushing Claw!" ValClawmon cried out.
Before the claw closed, Apollomon punched through the orb and fired a burst of flames that shot forward. ValClawmon braced himself as the flames engulfed him, scorching the mutant like barbeque. If that wasn't enough, Suzakato shot repeated flame blasts inside ValClawmon.
"UGH!! NOOO!!" ValClawmon snapped. "I WON'T BE DONE IN LIKE THIS!!"
"I'm almost there! Just a little more!" Suzakato said as he watched ValClawmon's form starting to give way. He visibly saw Shamanmon appearing within the mutant coupled with an artifact of a clawed talon. "I see the Claws and the host!"
"Keep going, Takato!" KaiserGreymon encouraged his friend to keep projecting fire to purify ValClawmon. He immediately pulled out his D-Scanner. "You do that and I'll draw in his fractal code along with the Claws!"
"Oh, that won't be necessary," a snake-like voice crept up behind KaiserGreymon and Suzakato.
Suddenly, Slicermon lunged out and tackled Suzakato aside - foiling Suzakato's attempt to purify ValClawmon. As KaiserGreymon turned, Vipermon caught the Z-Hybrid with an elbow smash and knocked him. Artemismon dove down at the Devil Clan members, firing arrows at them. The two evaded the arrows and threw a net, ensnaring the Amazon and paralyzing her.
ValClawmon's body weakened while lumbering forward. His form slowly began to fade while Madoudramon stood in front of the mutant.
"Stay away!" Apollomon roared as he charged toward Madoudramon.
HiSuzakumon stepped in, cutting off Apollomon's path and shot a flame arrow. "Hell's Arrow!!" He knocked Apollomon with the arrow, shifting his view toward Masaru, ShineGreymon, and BioDarkdramon.
"That does it!" ShineGreymon bellowed. "Glorious Burst!!"
"Dark Matter!!"
HiSuzakumon jumped out of the range, letting the attacks hit ValClawmon. The combined attack, coupled with their effects, disrupted ValClawmon's regenerative abilities and overwhelmed the mutant.
"You... never even gave me... a chance... to..." ValClawmon murmured, his voice faltered as fractal code revolved around him. Then, the artifact with the Claws emerged from the mutant.
Madoudramon smirked. "It's ours."
BA-BOOM!!
Another explosion erupted as everyone turned to see Imperialdramon flying through the walls. Daimaomon glided through a thick smoke screen while firing a bombardment of blasts all over the Dra-Warrior. Imperialdramon produced a barrier, shielding himself, Davis, and Ken. WarGreymon flew out as he threw Piedmon into the bridge.
"What took you guys so long?!" Suzakato exclaimed. "We found the Claws of Valmarmon!"
"I see it!" Tai exclaimed as he noticed ValClawmon laying unconscious with the artifact hovering over him. "Hey, what's that?"
"Don't waste time! Get it before Madoudramon does!" KaiserGreymon snapped.
"Gotcha!" Davis exclaimed as he and Ken directed Imperialdramon toward ValClawmon.
"There it is! We just need to take the Claws!" Ken said.
As Imperialdramon reached out for the Claws, Daimaomon caught him with double energy blasts that stalled the Dra-Warrior leader. WarGreymon dove through the air as he swooped in to snatch the Claws. ShineGreymon and BioDarkdramon stampeded forward to grab the Claws.
"I've got it!" WarGreymon insisted as he reached for the Claws.
"HURRY!!" ShineGreymon exclaimed as he turned, watching Madoudramon vanish from view.
Within a fraction of a second, Madoudramon teleported in front of ValClawmon. He raised his saber and his right hand, summoning dark flames that amassed into a flurry of ten dragons.
"Zorn du Drago!!" Madoudramon howled, directing his dragons at the trio.
"AUGH!!" ShineGreymon, BioDarkdramon, and WarGreymon cried out as Madoudramon repelled them back with dark dragon flames.
"Sorry, but the Claws are..."
"Ours," Daimaomon levitated behind Madoudramon.
"Our job is done," Madoudramon remarked as he grabbed the Claw of Valmarmon.
"NOT QUITE!!" Masaru roared as he raced forward, throwing a punch at Madoudramon.
With quick reflexes, Madoudramon caught Masaru's fist and stopped the teen from striking him. A burst of orange and dark purple light flashed out of their hands, intertwining as they converged. Sparks of energy crackled between Masaru and Madoudramon, causing a chain of reactions that disrupted the power inside the chamber. Masaru and Madoudramon looked each other in the eye as Apollomon dove in and pushed Masaru aside.
"Masaru!!" ShineGreymon roared as he flew over toward Apollomon and the teen.
"YOU'RE NOT GETTING AWAY!!" Another voice emanated from the first entrance.
All eyes turned toward the entrance as Gallantmon dashed through the bridge.
"GALLANTMON!! GET THEM!!" Suzakato pleaded.
With his Aegis shield lighting up, Gallantmon guided a massive crimson beam at Madoudramon. "Shield of the Just!!" He continued marching forward, aiming the beam directly at both Madoudramon and Daimaomon.
"Wait!!" Apollomon exclaimed.
Suddenly, ChaosGallantmon flew behind Gallantmon and felled him with an elbow into his back. As Gallantmon fell, his beam was knocked away from its intended targets and strayed toward Suzakato. The Warrior of Suzaku pulled himself up and prepared to move until KaiserGreymon threw himself in front of Suzakato and took the brunt of Gallantmon's force.
"AUGH!!" KaiserGreymon bellowed in pain as he collapsed.
"Takuya!!" Suzakato exclaimed.
"My, my, we've really screwed up their team dynamics," ChaosGallantmon chuckled, shifting his view on Madoudramon and Daimaomon. "Do you have it?"
"Right here," Madoudramon announced, tightly grasping the artifact in his right left palm. "Daimaomon. Do you wish to continue this alliance?"
"I would like nothing more than to whisk the Claws of Valmarmon away for my sake," the Mao King openly threatened Madoudramon as he raised his right hand, preparing to fire a beam directly for the dark knight's head. "However, our alliance has successfully infiltrated this sanctuary and taken the Claws. You said Valmarmon could grant me power to rule this region and overpower Zhuqiaomon?"
"Yes, he'll give you what you want," Madoudramon said.
"Very well then," Daimaomon chuckled deeply as he snapped his fingers.
CRASH!!
A large warship crashed through the ceiling, causing the top to collapse through the bridges. While the Devil Clan warship descended, Daimaomon turned toward Slicermon and Vipermon.
"Slicermon, Vipermon, we're leaving," Daimaomon confirmed.
As they released Artemismon, the Devil Clan members let the Amazon fall on the bridge.
"Lord Daimaomon, we regret to report that WyvernMonzaemon and Mantoidmon are gone," Slicermon replied, kneeling down before the Mao King.
Vipermon added, his tone was accompanied with a hiss. "They were done in by our enemies."
"And yet their sacrifice allowed us to take the Claws," the Devil Clan leader replied as he turned away and paced toward Madoudramon. "We're leaving, you two. Come. Madoudramon, you and your cohorts are welcome to come with us."
"You're too kind," HiSuzakumon replied.
"Indeed," ChaosGallantmon said.
The warship's bottom opened a hatchet that released a beam. As the beam widened, it covered Daimaomon and Madoudramon, pulling them up into the warship. ChaosGallantmon, HiSuzakumon, Piedmon, Vipermon, and Slicermon were next to being transported through the beam.
"No... they're getting away!" Suzakato roared as he flew up after the villains.
"TAKATO!" Gallantmon cried out.
"It's too late!" Apollomon bellowed.
"IT'S NEVER TOO LATE!! YOU BETTER BELIEVE I'LL TAKE THE CLAW BACK!!" The Warrior of Suzaku's shouted, echoing out within the chamber whist a fiery aura shrouded him, propelling him toward the warship. "GIVE IT BACK!!"
Daimaomon looked down, vexed by Suzakato's sheer refusal to accept defeat. He opened his eyes and fired a pair of beams, which stalled Suzakato from reaching the warship. Just then, another hatch opened up to reveal a cannon. As the cannon charged, it fired a quick energy beam that blasted Suzakato. His fire shield was destabilized, causing him to lose his flight power. Suzakato fell toward the ground, plunging to his death. Gallantmon swooped up and caught Suzakato.
"I've got you!" Gallantmon said while securing the teen in his arms.
Madoudramon chuckled. "You came quite prepared, Daimaomon."
"It's a simple task for my warship to stamp out little bugs like that boy," the Mao King added as he and Madoudramon were the first to enter the warship. "Now, let's go and pick up the rest of our colleagues."
"Sorry, but this victory is ours today!" Madoudramon announced to the distraught Digiteam. He held the Claws in his grasp, further enticing the group. One piece down, six more to go. Lord Valmarmon, your revival is imminent. I can feel it!
As the leaders were teleported inside the warship, ChaosGallantmon, HiSuzakumon, Piedmon, Vipermon, and Slicermon were pulled in.
The warship ascended through the hole in the roof. The Digiteam looked on, distraught and humbled while wallowing in their defeat. They thought their teamwork would've been effective in keeping the Claws out of the enemy's hands. They were wrong.
xxxxx
Meanwhile, another YamiSenshimon horde stormed into the palace. Silvermon, Kazu, Andromon, and Phillipe were drastically reducing their numbers with effective teamwork. Kazu's brute force coupled with Andromon's missiles took out a number of the dark warriors. Phillipe utilized his speed to mow down the YamiSenshimon as if they were nothing. Silvermon destroyed a portion of the warriors, firing beams out of his mirrors.
Atolmdramon observed the ongoing battle whilst waiting for the opportunity to attack the Digiteam.
Suddenly, the Devil Clan warship hovered outside the palace. The ship directed a beam on the remaining YamiSenshimon as they were being pulled back into the ship.
"What's this?!" Atolmdramon exclaimed.
Just then, ChaosGallantmon was transported from the warship arriving right next to Atolmdramon.
"We're leaving, Atolmdramon."
"With them?" He inquired.
"Yes, now hurry!" ChaosGallantmon growled as he fired a lightning bolt out of his lance.
Phillipe, Kazu, Silvermon, and Andromon moved out of the lightning attack's range as Atolmdramon regrouped with ChaosGallantmon. Another beam shot down, capturing the two digimon while being pulled into the warship.
"Hey! Get back here!" Phillipe shouted as he dashed up and tried to stop them. But, he was too late to prevent the enemy's escape.
As all members from Madoudramon and Daimaomon's group were secured, the warship glided off into the distance. Phillipe and company was left bewildered by what transpired.
Though, Silvermon came to his own suspicions and concluded. "Could they have captured the piece before we did?"
"If that's the case, then we better go and see the others!" Andromon said.
"Aww, man! This sucks!" Kazu stomped his foot down, making a small crater in the ground.
Phillipe frowned as he raced off through the corridor ahead of them.
"WAIT UP!!" The trio called out as they (tried) to keep up with their speedy friend.
Artemismon! Everyone! What in the world happened in there?! A flood of worried thoughts raced through Phillipe's mind while heading through the corridor.
xxxxx
"Damn it. DAMN IT ALL!!" Masaru roared as he punched against a guardrail.
"What gives?! You guys almost had it!" Tai shouted as he jumped off WarGreymon's back. Turning toward ShineGreymon and BioDarkdramon. "Especially, you two! If you hadn't argued with each other...!"
"Don't blame me! You should be pointing your fingers at the dunce behind me!" BioDarkdramon roared, pointing to ShineGreymon.
The mega didn't take BioDarkdramon's accusation lightly and grabbed him. "It's not just my fault! We all tried to grab the Claws together!"
"Madoudramon just caught us off guard!" WarGreymon exclaimed.
"Ugh... damn, they got away?" Artemismon said, moving her arms and legs as she cast of the net she had been caught in. "You guys! Stop fighting amongst yourselves!"
As Gallantmon landed on the bridge, he and Suzakato watched as Apollomon picked up the now-reverted Shamanmon.
"At least we saved that digimon," Gallantmon said.
"Yeah, but we lost the Claws of Valmarmon," Suzakato lowered his face, distraught over the crushing loss.
"Takato, are you ok?" KaiserGreymon asked, barely turning his head as he noticed Suzakato sitting in Gallantmon's arms.
The Warrior of Suzaku glumly sighed, not exchanging glances with KaiserGreymon. "I'll manage, Takuya. Thanks for your concern." He felt unworthy of even acknowledging his friend, humbled by the loss.
Imperialdramon knelt down, letting Davis and Ken slide down his shoulders. The Digi-Destined hurried over toward Tai, who with reckless abandon stormed toward Masaru and his two cohorts.
"Your recklessness cost us the piece!" Tai offhandedly barked as he approached Masaru.
"Me?! We were trying to get the piece! Your digimon even tried to grab the Claws of Valmarmon!" Masaru angrily clenched his fists, defending his case against Tai's accusation. "We're all at fault here!"
"You..." Tai snarled as he turned away, watching WarGreymon approach him. "You're right."
"I'm sorry, Tai," WarGreymon said.
"We shouldn't be biting each other's heads off!" Davis exclaimed. "We're a team!"
"Davis, not now," Ken muttered whilst nodding his head at his friend.
Meanwhile, as he set Shamanmon on the floor, Apollomon addressed to the Digiteam calmly. "I regret this is partially my fault, too. The enemy came better prepared with more resources. And a part of that lies in the fact one of my cohorts became possessed by the Claws of Valmarmon." The regretful warrior shut his eyes, sighing deeply. "But, we mustn't give in to defeat. The other three Digiteams need to find and secure the other Valmarmon pieces. There are only six left."
"He's right, guys," Suzakato promptly stated. "This hunt isn't over. As long as our other friends are out there, I'm sure they'll nab the pieces before the enemy does. We just have to stay optimistic."
"Meanwhile, perhaps we can track down where the enemy has taken the Claws. Perhaps then..."
"What if we can't find them?!" BioDarkdramon objected. "Face it. We failed!"
"No, you take that back!" Masaru roared, retorting against Kouki's pessimistic view. "This is just a minor setback! We can bounce back!"
"Apollomon, if you can, we'll need your help," Suzakato suggested.
Apollomon nodded. "Yes, but we'll need to inform Granasmon and Huanglongmon of this unfortunate situation."
"Knowing them, they probably know already," Tai said.
"Agreed," WarGreymon affirmed.
Shifting his view toward the ceiling, Suzakato narrowed his eyes and glumly sighed. He gritted his teeth, bottling up the anger he has for the failure to retrieve the Claws of Valmarmon. What made him angrier was the fact that his own teammates were arguing amongst themselves, pointing fingers and destroying their team dynamics. Takato wondered if this was the enemy's intention all along besides securing the Claws of Valmarmon.
"Takato?" Gallantmon noticed his Tamer wore a somber look.
"If this is how things are going to start off, then we're in trouble," Suzakato murmured. "Serious trouble." He closed his eyes, communicating with Suzaku in his mind. Suzaku. Our biggest issue is not just securing the pieces, but keeping unity within our own teams.
"I agree, but this is a setback you and your friends will need to work out. I trust you can do this, Takato."
"Don't get discouraged, Takato. If anything, this will only makes us stronger and push us to stop the enemy," Gallantmon reassured his partner. "Right?"
Nodding, Suzakato wore a small smile. "Maybe, but the question is... will we be ready? Or, will Madoudramon and his new alliance with Daimaomon destroy us altogether?" As he floated out of Gallantmon's arms, Suzakato looked at his group. His face contorted somberly as he noted his cohorts were barely even exchanging glances. "Guys, next time, I know we won't fail. I vow on my word."
There was silence in the room. Nobody said a word to suggest that they agree or disagree.
Yeah, looks like I've got a lot of work to do. Suzakato thought.
xxxxx
Phoenix Badlands/9:25 AM
Harbingermon sat on a rock cliff in solitude. His glum expression could easily show that he witnessed the events from the Phoenix Gates unfold.
"It is just as you said, Oraclemon. Those who do not join together will be torn apart," he said.
As her presence shimmered behind Harbingermon, Oraclemon added in her ethereal tone. "I see all. I know all. The path to victory grows narrow."
"The question is, can the others remain united?" Harbingermon stood up as he walked by Oraclemon, disappointed with the outcome. "They have only six chances. Six pieces remain. If they don't learn to work together, it will be the end."
With that, Ancientmon's two messengers disappeared with a shimmer.
xxxxx
(PREVIEW)
Himura: Hey, guys! It's Himura here and we've been scouring through the forests in the Western Digital Realm. I tell you it's so cool here.
Inumon: There's a human here?! Chased by a digimon... infected with the X-Virus? DIE!!
Joe: What's wrong with Inumon?! He just... killed that digimon.
Sam: In cold blood, no less.
Junpei: This human... it's a girl?!
Norn: Greetings, I am Norn. Thank you for rescuing me. You see I was chased and... I bumped into your group.
Ryudamon: And I've been her guardian since... well... yesterday. I'm Ryudamon.
Izzy: What's a human girl with a digimon doing in the middle of this Digital Realm? Is she a Digi-Destined?
Tentomon: Something doesn't add up here.
Inumon: Here it is, guys. Home sweet home. Howling Mountain. I'm getting a nostalgic vibe being here.
Lopmon (S): Howling Mountain?
Suzie: Wow, look at all the canine digimon! Are they all your friends, Inumon?
Ikuto: There's a Gaogamon here!
Chika: Silly, it's a BlackGaogamon. Very different from Thomas' partner.
Tomoki: You guys are going to be shocked when you hear more about Inumon's dark past.
Gomamon: There's more to that perverted mutt than meets the eye.
Himura: We've got to find the Eye of Valmarmon before it's too late. Where can we find it?
Willis: Next time on Dawn of Chaos!
Arrival at Howling Mountain! The Eye, the Girl, and Inumon's Dark Past!
Tentomon: You don't want to miss this!
Junpei: Oh, Norn. I think I've finally gotten over Izumi for you, my new love! Such sweet innocence!
Tomoki: Oh brother. Get serious, Junpei!
xxxxx
A/N: The first Valmarmon piece hunt has ended. Unfortunately, the Digiteam has lost this round. There's some dissension to amp up the suspense. Who knows what this could lead to?
Daimaomon, Vipermon, WyvernMonzaemon, Slicermon, Mantoidmon, and the YamiSenshimon are all characters from my Daimaomon's Conquest fic I wrote many years ago in 2005. Only difference here is that all of them, except the YamiSenshimon, are mega-level digimon in this story (unlike their ultimate-level counterparts in my old story). I've selected Daimaomon to be one of the seven Mao Kings. The reason for these warlords is simply to make the Digiteam's chances of gaining the Valmarmon pieces that much harder. Granted, these guys were originally not planned to be a part of this story, but I decided the Digiteams need to be challenged. This fact was demonstrated in the chapter. Adding Daimaomon and his crew made it difficult for Takato and his team to secure the Claws.
Madoudramon, Atolmdramon, HiSuzakumon, and the Claws of Valmarmon (ValClawmon) are Ninetalesuk's creations. Oraclemon, Harbingermon, Ancientmon, and Silvermon are LazerWulf's digimon.
I even went out of the way and added Apollomon. I figured this story was also the perfect time to introduce the other Olympus Twelve. I'll definitely use the others. I think they make perfect guardians for the Valmarmon artifacts. Heck, the next one might appear in the next chapter, but I'll keep you guessing. =)
Hey, at least it's better than leaving Destiny Stones out in the open unguarded. What were they thinking not having guardians for those stones? At least these guardians are Royal Knight-class warriors. The Destiny Stones are not even the gist of the problems Zero Two faced as an overall series, but I digress.
Himura and his team are up next. Can they succeed where Takato's group failed?
Anyway, read and comment. Leave a review after you finish. =)
Take care and stay gold.