Episode 29:Toytown Terror

One could scarcely describe the feeling of riding on the rails. Watching the landscape pass by through the passenger windows. The occasional whistle from the smokestack,and the gentle rumbling of train wheels over the track. It was a serene kind of experience,that someone could easily be absorbed by. Simply letting the mind wander,or be lulled into a gentle sleep.

The group traveled in comfort as they rode the train. All of them enjoying the change of pace. The first car was where they stayed throughout most of the day. It had cushioned seats on either side. With pairs of them facing each other. Each set of seats had its own table,that unfolded from the wall. Inside of the second car,was a fairly well equipped kitchen. With a small gas stove,a pantry,wood counter tops,and an assortment of pots,and pans. The last of the cars had a few small rooms,with double bunks. At the end of the car were a trio of bathrooms,and a shower. Which everyone was quick to take advantage of.

Everyone mostly passed the time with idle chat,or by playing games. Others simply choosing to look out the window,and watch the world go by. Kokuwamon was always at the head of the train. Making sure everything stayed in working order. Occasionally Locomon would converse with him. Using one of several gramophone like devices situated along the train. The two enjoyed their conversations,Locomon especially. As it was the first time in so long,that he had spoken to anyone.

The sun was beginning to set,as Misaki looked out the window. Watching as orangish red twilight,slowly gave way to night. With a sigh,she reached into her bag,to pull out a small notepad. She flipped through the first few pages,before coming to the one she wanted. Ever since they had left File city,she had looked upon this particular page every day. The page was marked with a dash,one for every day the group had been in the digital world. She had not actually counted them in so long. At first she had merely forgotten,but now there was a sense of anxiety. How long had they really been gone? Did she really want to know?

She took in a breath,and slowly began to count them down. As the number grew higher,the grip on her pen tightened. Finally,with shaky hand,she wrote the final number down. She couldn't hold it back any longer. The pen,and notebook fell from her grasp,as a stream of tears began to fall down her cheeks.

Across from her,Magimon stood up,and walked around beside her. "Misaki? Are you okay?" he asked worriedly,placing a hand on her thigh.

Beside the girl,Chloe grabbed her shoulder gently. "What's wrong?" she said,sounding equally as worried. The others all began to turn at the scene,some of them standing up to approach.

Misaki's tears began to flow stronger,her face reddening. "I miss my parents! I miss home!" she managed to reply in between sobs. Any pretense of composure then fell away,as she began to weep uncontrollably.

Chloe immediately wrapped her in a hug,letting the girl cry into her chest. "Shhh,it's okay." she cooed,rubbing her back comfortingly.

"What's wrong?" Trent asked,as he approached.

Chloe looked up to face him,still continuing her soothing movements. "I think she's homesick."

"I wonder what could have brought this on." Magimon pondered with a frown,as he rubbed gently at Misaki's thigh.

"What was she doing before it happened?" Kiko asked.

"I think she was writing something down." Fanbeemon replied,as she hovered near the girl worriedly.

Trent looked down,to see Misaki's notepad lying on the floor. He picked it up,and turned it over. To see the page with of all of Misaki's marks,and the number fifty,circled below them. The boy pondered the markings for a moment. His eyes widening,as their significance dawned on him.

"Fifty days." he stated,his voice sounding almost distant.

Huckmon cocked his head at Trent curiously. "What?"

He held up the notepad,for all to see. "That's how long we've been gone. Fifty days,almost two months. Misaki must of been keeping track this whole time."

A silence fell over the group,the rolling of the train,and MIsaki's soft sobs the only sounds that could be heard. Just as it had before they began their journey. The reality of the teen's situation became palpable. All of the partner digimon looked to their human companions sympathetically. None,really sure of what to say. Gale took a glance at the notepad,and toward the crying Misaki. Her hand tightened into a fist,and a scowl came over her features.

"I need some air." she growled,before making a quick exit out of the passenger car. Ryudamon quickly followed after her.

Trent took a moment to register her exit. "Gale,wait!" he called after,and followed as well,Huckmon trailing behind.


Gale,and Ryudamon stood on a wooden platform at the end of the train. An almost chest high guard rail,encircled it,and a metal awning sat above. Gale leaned against the rail,her cheek resting against her knuckle. She stared down at the tracks below,watching them fly by. Her face was a mixture of contemplation,and anger. Beside her,Ryudamon stood silently,watching her with worry. He attempted to talk to her,only moments ago,but was met with silence. So he waited,ready to be there for her,should she need it.

He turned at the sound of a door opening behind them. Trent stepped through,giving Ryudamon a nod of acknowledgement. Huckmon followed behind the boy,and strode over to stand with Ryudamon.

"Any luck?" Huckmon whispered. Ryudamon shook his head in response. Huckmon giving him a reassuring pat on the back.

Trent stood by the door for a moment,before walking over to stand by Gale. He leaned on the rail as well,and turned to face her. When she didn't seem to acknowledge his presence,he looked out see the line of track behind him. Watching trees,and rocks slowly become silhouettes in the night.

After a time,Gale sighed,and ran a hand through her hair. "How long? How long before we actually get to go back? Three months? Four? A year?" Her voice became more hysterical,as she went on. Trent turned to her,but couldn't form any sort of response. "Why us?"

"Because we're digidestined Gale." Trent answered,though he didn't sound convinced by his own words.

"What the hell does that even mean!?" she shouted,stamping her foot angrily. "You know what I think it means? It means a bunch of teenagers,have to go save the world! Because some dumb rocks said they were 'chosen'! Which means they have to stay away from home,for who know how long! Run into all kinds of danger,which includes,but is not limited to. Giant fire breathing dinosaurs,living tanks,bugs big enough to eat a house! Giant skeletal monstrosities,with enough firepower to nuke an entire city block,and of course,ACTUAL FUCKING DEMONS!" When her rant was finally done,her breathing was heavy,and face flush. Then with a heavy sigh,she half whispered. "Sorry."

Without another word she headed back inside. Once again,Ryudamon followed dutifully behind. Trent watched her go,his attentions then turning to the notepad still in his grip. Huckmon sidled up beside him,and looked up to the boy worriedly.

"This is the right thing to do,isn't?" Trent asked,his voice full of doubt.

"I really think that's up for you to decide." Huckmon answered,sad he couldn't offer anymore.


When Gale came back to the passenger car. She found Misaki had finally calmed down. Her eyes were bloodshot,and she sniffled occasionally. Chloe,and Magimon sat close by,offering the best comfort they could. Gale approached,and kneeled down to get eye level with Misaki.

"You doing alright?" she asked,her softened features in complete contrast to her earlier anger.

Misaki sniffled,and gave a nod in return,happy for her friends concern. Gale gave a little smile back,and patted her gently on the shoulder. She then turned at the sound of Trent,and Huckmon entering the passenger car. Both teens exchanged eye contact,but said nothing. Trent soon approached,to check up on Misaki as well.

The next day,everything had quieted down for the most part. A sense of normalcy returning. Throughout the whole day,Misaki felt utter embarrassment at her outburst last night. Though her friends were quick to offer their reassurance.


Barbamon sat in his chambers,his attention split,between several screens. One,displaying the digidestined,and the other showing Phelesmon's research on the virus.

"Interesting." the demon said,stroking his long beard. The multitude of data,reflecting in the ruby eyes of his mask. "Perhaps we could use this to bolster our forces." He quickly looked up from the research,and to the other monitors. "Their ride will have to make a stop soon enough."

The demon did a few quick buttons presses,and brought up a map. To try and ascertain which sector the digidestined were traveling through. Once he finally found it,a small grin crossed his lips. "Looks like they're heading for Toytown." He quickly dismissed the map. "Computer,connect me to Pierrotmon."

After a few moments,another screen appeared before him. Displaying a tall,thin figure,hidden in shadow.

"Lord Barbamon! Always such a such joy to see you!" The figure exclaimed,his voice loud,and bubbly. "What can I do for you my lord?"

Barbamon took a moment to recover from the excitable outburst. "The digidestined will most likely be making a stop in Toytown. I want you to show them your best hospitality."

The figure began to giggle uncontrollably. "Oh goody gumdrops! New playmates! I can't wait for them to get here. We'll have all kinds of fun."

Barbamon rubbed at his temples. "I'm sure you will. But don't toy with them too much. They are not too be underestimated."

Pierrotmon deflated a little at that,body sagging,but was quick to perk right back up. "I guess I'll just have to enjoy it while it lasts. It will be done my lord."

The demon lord gave a gruff nod in response. The signal then cut out,communications screen going static. Barbamon allowed himself a little chuckle. Before turning his attention back to Phelesmon's research.


The early afternoon sun shone bright in the sky. When the group heard an announcement from Locomon.

"Alright lads,and lassies,this old train is gonna be making a pit stop real soon. Gotta recharge for a little while."

The group were quick to offer words of understanding. After all,the old digimon had ferried them for several days now. It was only natural for him to need a break. About half an hour later, Locomon slowly rolled to a stop,with a loud hiss,and a soft whistle.

"This is our temporary stop,lads,and lassies. Toytown." All the passenger doors swung open. "Its a lovely place. So feel free to stretch your legs,and have a little fun. There's no better place for fun than here. Now,I think I'm gonna take my nap." He yawned,and his golden eyes slowly shut.

Most of the group decided to take Locomon's suggestion. The main group,headed out toward the nearby by town,with Gatomon tagging along. While Kokuwamon,and the other escapees decided to stay,until Locomon awoke.

The terrain outside was meadows of short grass,and wildflowers. With copses of trees scattered about. Just ahead of the group,was the aptly named Toytown. A giant sign above its entrance, spelled out the town's name in large cartoonish letters. All of the town's buildings were made of a plastic like material. Some even constructed of giant toy building blocks. A rainbow,of pastel,and neon colors,popped out everywhere. Giving the town a bright,and cheery atmosphere. Off in the distance the party could see a large ferris wheel,towering over a small theme park below.

Further adding to the town's cheeriness,were its inhabitants. Which were a strange combination of toy like digimon,and normal toys,that moved on their own. There were dinosaur digimon,made of multicolored lego bricks. Tin soldiers,wind up toys,small stuffed animals,and even a giant yellow teddy bear digimon.

"Ugh,all these colors. It almost makes my eyes wanna bleed." said Derek,eyes squinting.

"For once,I think you and I can agree on something." Gale stated.

"I'm all for color,but this is a tad much." Ryudamon added. Magimon,and Chakoramon nodded in agreement.

The others had a very different reaction. With smiles of childlike wonder crossing their faces,and eyes glimmering with joy. Gatomon's expression was the most subdued of these. While Chloe, Misaki,Fanbeemon,and Moonmon. Could scarcely contain their squeals of excitement.

As the group walked through the town. All of the townsfolk offered cheery greetings,and waves as they passed. Chloe,and Misaki had to stop themselves several times. From just running up,and giving some of them a hug. They saw quite a few sights along the way as well. All of them seemingly right out of a child's fantasy. One such sight,was the fountain in the town square. That sprayed a rainbow colored liquid. Creating bubbles in a variety of colors,as it fell into the pool below.

They all eventually came to the amusement park they had seen from afar. The bright,and colorful ferris wheel,was obviously the centerpiece of the whole affair. There were all kinds of attractions alongside it. A large merry go round,food,and game stands. A fun house,an arcade,and even a small roller coaster. Just to name a few.

Kiko,and Trent,immediately went off toward the arcade. Their partners were intrigued,and followed. Both curious to see what drew the boys to such an activity. Misaki,Chloe,and Fanbeemon were drawn to the funhouse. With Magimon,simply tagging along for the ride.

Gatomon asked if anyone would ride the ferris wheel with her. Ryudamon of course immediately agreed. Gale deciding to go along with them as well. Partly because she didn't want to be left alone with Derek,and Chakoramon,and also because she couldn't pass up the opportunity to poke fun at Ryudamon. With them out of sight,Derek,and Chakoramon stood alone.

"Why does it feel like we just got ditched?" Derek asked with a sigh.

"Well if we did,I don't think it was intentional." replied Chakoramon. "For the most part anyway."

Derek gave a nod. "Yeah,that's true,and besides,it's not like we can't have a little fun without them." He turned to his partner. "What do you want to do?"

"I'm not really sure. These sorts of places have never really appealed to me." Her eyes then drifted over some of the food stands. "Although,that popcorn over there does look tempting." She quickly shook her head. "But...I really shouldn't."

Derek raised a brow. "Oh? Does someone have a weakness for salty snacks?" She didn't reply,but her face said it all. Derek chuckled. "Come on,I'll get you some."

"Well,I mean if you insist." she replied,and followed after him toward said food cart.

From the rooftops,the shadowy figure of Pierrotmon watched. He giggled,and guffawed,dancing about in joy. "Oh they have finally arrived! What fun! What fun! The games are about to begin!" His giggling fit,quickly turned into a maniacal cackle. That was drowned out by the sounds of the park below.


As Trent,Kiko,Huckmon, and Moonmon,entered the arcade. Their senses were immediately assaulted by the sights,and sounds within. Lines of arcade cabinets flashed with color. All beckoning to be played. Rows of light bulbs,lit up some of the older types of machines. Such as ski ball,a crane game,and a few pinball machines. The sounds of the machines,was a mixture of dozens of different noises. All coming together in chaotic cacophony. Aside from the flashing lights of the machines,and a few dim light strips on the floor,the place was quite dark. The four's eyes taking a few moments to adjust.

Once they were further in,they were greeted by one of the lego dinosaur digimon. Kiko's digivice identifying him as ToyAgumon. He stood by some sort of machine,modeled into the shape of a clown. It's arm outstretched,and a slot carved into its mouth.

"Welcome to the Toytown game corner! Have you come to play?" The four gave a quick nod. "Well then today is your lucky day! We happen to be running a special offer today only! The first one hundred tokens are free."

He produced a small pouch,and opened it up. Before giving a hard pull of the clown's outstretched arm. The mechanism inside began to whir,and move. A stream of golden tokens,spewing from the clown's mouth,seconds later. They fell into the open bag,filling it almost to the brim,before the stream ceased.

ToyAgumon tied off the little pouch,and handed it to Trent. "There you go! Have fun!" The four offered their thanks to the rookie,and went off to browse the collection of games.

They eventually picked out a shooter for two players. Where the goal was to survive as long as possible. In a jungle filled with dinosaurs,and other prehistoric beasts. Though they lacked the proper appendages to play themselves,Huckmon,and Moonmon,were happy to watch.

The four spent some time in the arcade,playing all the games that piqued their interests. From a racing game,to a fighter. Kiko,and Trent,even took a couple of shots at the claw machine,with little success. Their bag of tokens growing ever lighter,as the time went by.

After some time,Trent,reached into the pouch to find it empty. The arcade screen before him,flashing with the words 'Play again?'

"Well looks like we're finally out." Trent said,turning the pouch over,and giving it a gentle shake.

Kiko shrugged. "Oh well,it was going to happen sooner,or later. Sides,I was getting a little tired anyway."

"But you guys were so close to the final boss!" Huckmon exclaimed.

"Yeah." Moonmon agreed. "I wanted to see Leliana save the princess!"

Kiko chuckled at the two. "If it'll make you feel better. I'll tell you guys the ending." He patted the side of the arcade cabinet. "I've beat this game bunches of times."

As the four made a move to leave,they noticed that ToyAgumon was nowhere to be seen. Suddenly,all of the arcade screens flashed off,save for one. The words 'Play Again?' continuing to flash across the screen. The group slowly came closer together,a sense of anxiety beginning to settle into the pits of their stomachs. The arcade machines all flickered on again a second later,the same message displayed,with one slight change. 'Play Again!'. No longer a question but a demand.

Trent cursed the fact he had left his sword on Locomon. Huckmon got into a fighting stance beside him. While Kiko quickly digivolved Moonmon to Lunamon,as she took up a similar stance. The crackling of the arcade screens filled the tense silence that followed.

Over by the entrance,the clown shaped token dispenser,slowly turned to face them. It's extended arm, went down on its own. A stream of tokens firing out of it like bullets. The tokens struck Huckmon dead on,plinking against his armored body.

With a snarl,fire began to spark in his mouth. "Searing Shot!" The fiery bullet smashed into the clown. Leaving it nothing but a pile of scrap,and tokens.

Then without warning,one of the game cabinets,popped open. A pair of tentacles lashing out from within,both composed of multicolored wires. Huckmon leapt at one,slicing it in half with his claws. While the other was blasted apart by Lunamon's tear shot. More of the arcade machines began to pop open. Dozens of wire tendrils,slithering toward them.

Huckmon,and Lunamon,fought the onslaught of lashing tentacles. Blasting,and slicing away,to stem the tide. There were too many however,and they were eventually overwhelmed. The tendrils almost completely enwrapping them,and constricting them with their tight grip. Their partners tried to move in,and free them, But they too,were soon entangled in the mass of wires. All four of them nicely wrapped up in wiry bundles. Ready to be collected,by the cackling Pierrotmon.


After being waved in by the attraction's attendant,Chloe,Misaki,Fanbeemon,and Magimon headed toward the funhouse entrance. Which appeared like the open mouth of giant teddy bear. Immediately,they came to a long pink slide,that spiraled downward. Chloe,and Fanbeemon didn't waste anytime in getting on,to take the trip down. The bee digimon riding comfortably in Chloe's grip,as they slid down,smiles plastered on their faces. Misaki was a bit more trepidatious,but slid down all the same,giggling the entire away. Magimon rolled his eyes,and followed after them. Though even he found a certain joy in the activity.

When the two finally stopped,they dropped into a large ball pit. Misaki looked about,finding that Chloe,and Fanbeemon were nowhere to be seen. Suddenly,the blonde,popped out from the pit. Letting out a loud yell,that made Misaki jump in surprise,and fall onto her back. Magimon simply shook his head at the antic,not noticing Fanbeemon approaching from behind. The bug digimon getting as close as possible,and poking him on the shoulder. The wizard leapt in shock,and turned about,to get into an aggressive stance.

"Gotcha!" Fanbeemon exclaimed,before falling into a giggling fit. Magimon crossed his arms,and simply harrumphed in response.

Chloe waded through the pit toward Misaki,and offered the fallen girl a hand. "Sorry. You okay?"

Misaki adjusted her glasses with a smile,and took the offered hand. "Don't worry about it. I don't think I could have resisted the opportunity either." she said,as she was helped back to her feet. She laughed,and gave Chloe a playful shove,the blonde quickly joining in on the laughter.

After the four made their way through the ball pit,they continued onward. The funhouse lived up to its name,as it was filled with several odd,and entertaining activities. There was a long tunnel,that spun at a leisurely pace,with a few dozen openings. Traversing all the way to the end,required a bit of dodging,and coordination. If one wasn't careful,they would fall through one of the holes in the tube. To land in a soft cushioned floor below. Which Misaki found out the hard way,more than once. Next was a room,with a single door,that could only be opened by solving a logic puzzle. Misaki,and Magimon found the brain teaser to be incredibly fun.

They eventually came to a hall of mirrors. All of them warped,and twisted into strange,and almost impossible shapes. As they walked past,their reflections,were squashed,and stretched in a variety of ways. Some of them giving the four pause,or a good laugh. Chloe,and Misaki stopped at a pair in particular. One making Chloe,appear,dwarf like in proportions. While the other made Misaki tall,and impossibly thin. The two giggled at the sight,and jumped back and forth between the two. Beside them,Fanbeemon was laughing riotously at Magimon. The wizard standing before a mirror,that enlarged his head to cartoonish proportions.

Misaki walked over to him,almost doubling over in laughter. "It must be taking your ego into account." she said through chuckles,Magimon fuming a little at the jab.

As Chloe turned,to compliment Misaki on her joke,she caught something out of the corner of her vision. She looked to see a large hole had opened up in the floor behind them. From the dark depths within,a pair of long segmented arms reached out. Both of them ending in large gloved hands. They slowly approached Misaki,ready to catch her in their grip.

Without a second thought,Chloe sprung into action. "Look out!" she exclaimed,as she pushed Misaki aside. The giant hands grabbing onto her instead,and pinning her arms at her sides.

Her three friends called out her name,and Fanbeemon rushed to her aid. The pair of arms began to quickly reel Chloe in,as she struggled to break free. She was soon pulled into the dark hole in the floor,Fanbeemon following after. The trap door closing right behind them.

Misaki ran over,and started to hammer her fists into the floor. "Chloe! Fanbeemon!" she yelled,continuing her fruitless efforts.

Magimon went up to stand beside her,and held out his outstretched palm toward the floor in front of her. As he was about to blast the floor open with his attack,several more doors opened up along the walls,and floor. A pair of long arms,reaching out from each of them.

Magimon spun about,unleashing his attack on the approaching appendages instead. The missiles of light pierced through a pair of grasping hands. They blew apart,the arms going completely limp. More,and more of the holes began to open up,toy soldiers,and wooden puppets filing out of them alongside the hands.

Magimon let loose a few more blasts of light. Before grabbing onto Misaki's arm. "Misaki we have to go! Now!"

Misaki turned to him,and then looked back to spot where their friends had disappeared. "But...what about Chloe,and Fanbeemon! We can't just leave them!"

"Misaki I don't want to leave them either. But we can't help them if we get captured too. We have to go." He gave a light tug at her arm.

Misaki spared another glance at the floor in front of her,before giving a nod. Magimon helped her to her feet,and got into a combat stance,as Misaki raised her d-brace.

"Magimon digivolve to...Wizardmon!"

The champion digimon held up his hand,summoning forth a ball of electrical energy. "Thunder Ball!" The attack flew forward,blasting through some of the approaching toys,and mechanized arms. Clearing the way,and making a clear path forward.

Wizardmon ran through the temporary opening,Misaki following right behind him. They ran,and ran,Wizardmon occasionally firing off another ball of thunder behind them. Giving them some more breathing room from their pursuers. After traversing the hall of mirrors,they finally came to the exit. Wizardmon did not stop,as they approached it,charging his body full force into the door. It burst open,the two coming out into the grounds of the theme park beyond. Once they were both safely out,Wizardmon used his telekinesis to slam the door back shut. Almost within the same motion,he moved a set of heavy crates,and barrels in front of it,effectively blocking the door.

The two took a moment to catch their breath. Before rushing off into the park to find the others.


Gale,Ryudamon,and Gatomon,made a quick stop by a cotton candy stand,on their way to the ferris wheel. The feline had never tried the treat before,and was a bit skeptical. With a little convincing from Ryudamon,she took her first bite. Her ears perked,and a surprised smile crossed her face. As the sweet substance melted on her tongue. By the time they had reached the line for the ferris wheel. The cottony pink ball of sugar,was already half gone.

The wait in line wasn't long,the four stepping onto the ride only minutes later. Once they were secure in their seats,the door closed behind them. With a bit of a lurch,the ferris wheel began to spin,and slowly lifted them into the air. Gatomon hopped over to the window excitedly,watching as the ground grew further,and further away. She pointed out the cotton candy stand they just visited. She could even see the slumbering form of Locomon once they were high enough. She smiled widely, enjoying the view of the world from such a different perspective. Ryudamon peered around her,looking out the window as well. The dragon of course,had risen just as high when he flew. But riding in the car of the ferris wheel gave it more of a slow gentle sense. He could really enjoy the sights below,and soak it in.

Gale sat across from the pair,watched them for a few moments,and chuckled. She couldn't help but think the two were quite cute together. She then turned to stare out of the window,and down onto the fairgrounds below. Her mind eventually wandered to the events of last night. The frustration beginning to well up inside of her once more.

She felt more torn than she had in her entire life. Gale hated the idea of going on this journey,because of some destiny. It just wasn't right in her eyes,to have this responsibility dropped upon their shoulders. She wanted to be home,with her family,and she knew her other friends did as well. But at the same time,she also knew that something was going on in this world. That it was the right thing to do,to try and find its cause,and stop it. But why them? Was that a selfish thought? Gale honestly didn't know the answer. Her inner turmoil,continued to twist,and gnaw at her. Pooling in the pit of her stomach,like a tangled quagmire of negative emotions.

Suddenly,the girl felt a gentle touch on her thigh,pulling her from her thoughts. She turned to see Ryudamon standing before her,looking to her with worry. Gatomon standing right beside him. With a shake of her head,Gale dispelled the thoughts,and gave her partner a reassuring smirk. This did not fully convince the dragon,but was enough to placate him,at least temporarily.

Gale tried to enjoy the rest of the ride,with her two companions. All of them getting off after a few rotations of the wheel. When they exited,they found that the crowds had definitely thinned. The park feeling quite empty without them. They decided to check out a few more attractions,before rejoining with the others. The nearby test of strength being the first thing to pique Gale's interest.


Just as Derek had suspected,Chakoramon did indeed have an incredible weakness for popcorn. The bird digimon had devoured a large bucket of the salty snack in record time. She felt incredibly embarrassed at her loss of self control,cheeks flushing with red. Derek was quick to give his partner reassurance,telling her that everyone had their guilty pleasures.

The duo continued to stroll through the theme park,browsing the various attractions,and stands. More than once,Chakoramon would find her eyes lingering on another snack stand. Almost all of them selling the buttery kernels. She resisted her urges,and kept her composure,despite the almost constant temptation.

They tried out several games as they went. Many of them were games of skill,involving good aim,and reflexes. Both of which were in no short supply among the duo. Allowing them to win quite a few prizes. Most of them being tiny stuffed animals,keychains,and the like. All of them easily fit into Derek's jacket,and pants pockets. While neither of them had any need for such things, they knew one of the others might enjoy having them.

The two eventually came upon a bit of a strange sight. It was a game stand,like many of the others,but it seemed completely unattended,and had been for some time. Right beside it,was a medium sized basketball hoop. A rack of basketballs were shelved nearby as well. Slowly,Derek approached the rack,and picked up one of the orange orbs. He wiped away the layer of dust that covered it,and turned it over in his hands. Chakoramon watched on expectantly,waiting to see what he would do.

Derek gave the ball a squeeze,finding it to still be fully inflated. He then gave it a few experimental dribbles,while passing it between his hands. Continuing to dribble,he moved toward the basketball hoop,stopping at the free throw line. After a few more dribbles,he lifted the ball into his grip. Then with a practiced fluid motion,he launched the ball toward the basket. It bounced off the backboard,and fell into the basket with satisfying 'swish'. Derek quickly retrieved the ball,and made several more free throws,each one going in without any issue. As he made each basket,a smile began to creep across his lips. Chakoramon began to smile as well,a warm,almost motherly smile.

After making his fifth free throw,Derek began to dribble the ball once more. He envisioned a set of imaginary foes,stopping him from reaching the basket. He rushed forward,using deft spins,and dodges,to avoid the imaginary opposing team. He could hear the crowd as well,their feet thumping,and hands clapping. All combining with their cheers,into an echoing roar. As Derek reached the hoop,he made one final dodge,before doing a running leap into the air. His momentum carried him all the way to the rim,and allowed him to make a perfect slam dunk.

He hung on the rim,for a few moments,before dropping down. The widest grin,could be seen on the boy's face,heart thumping hard in his chest. He soaked in the applause from the imaginary crowd. When it finally died down,a single clap could still be heard. He turned,to see Chakoramon clapping her wings together for all she was worth. He smiled a little wider,and reached down to pick up the ball,that had rolled at his feet. He stared at it once again,slowly coming down from his high. His smile began then to fade from a joyous grin,to a more reserved,bittersweet smile.

Derek sighed,and strolled back over to the ball rack. Chakoramon watching with a small frown.

Once the ball was back in its place,Derek turned to his partner. "Come on,let's keep going." he said,with a gesture of his head. The bittersweet smile still evident on his lips.

Chakoramon frowned,as Derek passed by her. She then gave one last look at the lonely basketball hoop,before following.


The two wandered aimlessly for a time,before spotting an interesting structure. It appeared like a small castle,composed of candy colored plastic. The entire outside was almost completely rounded. Nary a single sharp corner,or angle to be found on it. Its large entrance had the appearance of a giant,smiling drama mask. Their interest piqued,Derek,and Chakoramon approached. As they made the move to enter,a ToyAgumon quickly stepped in their path.

"I'm sorry,but I'm afraid you can't go in there!" he exclaimed,his voice overly cheerful.

Derek quirked a curious brow. "Why not?"

The ToyAgumon gestured to a nearby sign,that had escaped the pair's notice. The words 'Under Construction' were written there in bold letters. "This attraction is still in the midst of being built. It's still too dangerous for visitors to go in. We're sorry for the inconvenience!" He gave a little bow,as he apologized.

Derek,and Chakoramon,shared a look,and a shrug. Before giving a nod of understanding,and heading back off on their way. They didn't travel long,before they spotted the approaching trio,of Gale,Ryudamon,and Gatomon. The two digimon greeted them politely,Gale simply giving a harrumph of acknowledgement.

After a few seconds of awkward silence,Derek turned to Gale,and said the last words she ever expected to come out of his mouth. "Do you like dogs?"

Her eyes widened,and she blinked in bewilderment at the strange question. "Y..yeah. I...have a dog actually." she eventually answered.

Derek reached into his pocket,pulling out one of the keychains he,and Chakoramon had won. The chain ending in a tiny chocolate labrador.

"Here." he said,handing the trinket off to the girl.

Still more than a bit bewildered,she took the keychain,and rolled it over in her palm. "Umm...thanks?"

Gatomon looked up to the boy. "Do you have any other ones?"

Derek nodded,and reached into his pocket. He soon produced another keychain,this one ending in a mouse. Gatomon gave her thanks,and held it up by the chain. Her feline instincts soon kicked in,and she playfully batted at the thing. Derek chuckled,and looked to Ryudamon,asking if he wanted one as well. The dragon waved his claw,and politely declined.

Before anymore could be said,they all heard a set of frantic footfalls. They turned to see Misaki,and Wizardmon running toward them. Immediately upon seeing the digimon in his champion form,they knew something was amiss. The four rushed over to meet them,Gale being the first to reach the pair.

"What happened?" Gale asked,looking between the two.

"Chloe...and Fanbeemon! There were….arms everywhere,had to escape!" Misaki answered through ragged breaths,her thoughts frantic,and incoherent.

Wizardmon placed a hand upon her arm. "Breath,Misaki,calm down." She nodded,and as she took a moment to compose herself,the champion looked to his other companions. "Chloe,and Fanbeemon were captured."

"What!?" Gale shouted,drawing the attentions of some of the digimon around them. The others giving similar exclamations of shock.

Wizardmon held up a hand,to indicate silence. He then motioned toward a more secluded area nearby. Everyone nodded in understanding,and followed the wizard to the spot. Once he was sure there were not as many prying eyes,Wizardmon began to give an explanation as to what had transpired. During his telling,Misaki had regained her composure,though great worry was still evident on her features. She interjected occasionally to her partners tale,but mostly kept silent,her hands wringing,and fidgeting anxiously.

After he had finished,the group agreed that they should find Trent,and the others,before picking their next course of action. They moved through the park,the cheery surroundings,and happy smiles no longer feeling welcoming. They kept to the less crowded spaces as they made their way to the arcade near the entrance.

Once they were inside,they found that it was completely empty. All of the machines,and lights turned off. Using his magic,Wizardmon produced a ball of light,allowing them to see. They could all tell that some form of struggle had transpired. Evident by the smoking remains of the coin dispenser,and the various marks on the floor. As well as the slashed,and blasted lengths of electrical wire strewn about.

"Damn,don't tell me they got captured too?" Gale said,looking about the mess.

"It would appear that way." Wizardmon stated,as he examined one of the wires. Misaki stood beside him,continuing her anxious fidgeting.

Derek took a step forward. "We can't be one hundred percent on that. They might have just headed back to Locomon. I think we should do the same."

Gale glared at the boy. "You're a little low on the totem pole to making suggestions like that."

Derek's eyes narrowed right back at her. "Hey,I'm just trying to help!"

"When I want your help I'll ask for it."

Derek fumed,fists tightening. "I'm starting to get real sick of you giving me so much shit!"

Gale took as step toward the boy,her fists clenching as well. "Oh yeah? You wanna do something about it!?"

The two continued to argue,going back,and forth. Both of them so close to coming to blows. Misaki watched the two go at each other's throats,her worry,continuing to well up inside her. Finally,she could stand it no longer.

"STOP IT! Stop it both of you!" she shrieked,a single tear threatening to fall down her cheek. All turned with complete,and utter surprise at the girl's outburst. Misaki clenched her fists tight,resolution beginning to fill her. "Whatever differences you two have,you can work them out later." She sniffled,her face reddening. "But right now,our friends are in trouble! Saving them is the most important thing right now."

Gale deflated,muscles relaxing,and face softening. "You're right,I'm sorry Misaki. We need to pull together on this. So...anybody else got ideas?"

"I think Derek's suggestion was a sound one." Wizardmon stated,the boy smiling at that.

Misaki gave a nod,as she wiped a stray tear from her eye. "I think so too." The others seemed to agree as well.

Gale shrugged,and nodded. "Honestly,I think it's a good idea too. I was just being a stubborn ass,as per usual." She chuckled,and motioned to the door. "Alright then,let's get going."

When the seven headed out the door,they were greeted by an eerie silence. Not a single soul walked through the grounds of the park. All of the stands,and attractions left completely unattended. The merry go round,and ferris wheel had ceased turning,and a gentle breeze blew through the grounds. It was almost as if no one had been there in the first place.

Gale cursed under her breath,and shook her head. "This is definitely not good."

Suddenly,a loud crash broke the terrifying silence. The source was the form of the giant teddy bear digimon, called Monzaemon,stomping his way through the fair grounds. He strode toward the seven,a growl rumbling in his throat.

"You all look so sad." the bear rumbled. "I think you need a big hug! Hearts Attack!" Monzaemon flung out both of his arms. Summoning forth half a dozen heart shaped bubbles. They slowly drifted toward the group,shimmering with some unknown power.

Wizardmon quickly raised his hand,blasting forth a ball lighting. It collided with one of the bubbles,the attacks exploding in a shower of multicolored sparks. Beside him,Gatomon dashed forward,and leapt at another of the approaching bubbles.

"Lighting Paw!" she called,letting loose a powerful jab. It impacted against the bubble's surface,making it burst with a loud pop.

Gale,and Derek both raised their digivices. Ryudamon,and Chakoramon were both cocooned in radiance,as they rushed to fight as well.

"Ryudamon digivolve to...Ginryumon!"

"Chakoramon digivolve to...Anzumon!"

Both dragon,and bird took to the air,circling above the giant bear. Ginryumon launched a blast of golden light from his horns. While Anzumon unleashed a hail of razor sharp feathers. The impact of the energy blast,made Monzaemon stagger back. Anzumon's feather's leaving dozens of cuts along his body. He growled,and swung out with his giant paw at the flying champions. Both of them easily dodging the wide swings.

Gatomon watched the bears movements,finding them to be awkward,and slightly unnatural. Her pupils narrowed to slits,as she focused on him. She soon caught the faint glimmer of a thread,stretching from Monzeamon's back. Following her gut,she dashed toward him.

"Everyone hold off your attacks!" she called as she ran. The other digimon could sense she had something in mind,and did as they were bade. All of them still standing at the ready,should things go south.

Monzaemon turned to the approaching Gatomon,and tried to smash her with his giant paw. Gatomon leapt into the air to dodge,and landed on the bear's arm. She ran up its length,and toward the shoulder before leaping again. Her eyes zeroed in on the almost invisible thread,and she slashed at it with her claws. Severing its connection to Monzaemon. The bear groaned,eyes rolling into the back of his head,before he went tumbling to the ground. Gatomon landing gracefully beside him.

The others quickly went over to rejoin her. Gale looked back,and forth between the fallen Monzaemon,and Gatomon.

"What did you do?" she asked.

Gatomon opened her paw,to reveal a piece of the severed thread. "I saw this was attached to him. From his movements,I guessed he was being controlled by it somehow. So,I severed the connection." She looked over at Monzaemon. "It appears I was right. He wasn't in control of his actions."

Ginryumon's eyes sparkled in admiration. "You're so amazing." Gatomon chuckled at that,while his partner rolled her eyes.

Wizardmon approached,and took the strand,examining it closely. "If he was being controlled,the question remains. Who was controlling him?" As he began to consider this new development,he and the other digimon sensed dozen's of nearing presences.

They all looked about,soon seeing several approaching groups of ToyAgumon,along with the town's other inhabitants. Gatomon noted the same unnatural movements she saw in Monzaemon. As they neared,she could also see more shimmering strands,attached to their bodies.

"It seems that they're being controlled as well." she said,getting her claws at the ready.

"If there being controlled we can't fight them." Misaki stated.

"Dammit all!" Gale growled,cursing their situation.

While everyone prepared for the approaching toy digimon. Another shimmering thread slithered through the air,and attached itself to Monzaemon. The bear lurched upward unnaturally,standing back to his feet.

"It looks like we can't even cut their strings!" Wizardmon exclaimed. "Whoevers controlling them will just reestablish control."

"As much as I hate it,I think we have to bail!" Gale shouted,as she looked around at the digimon closing in on them. "There's no way to fight this right now."

Derek looked about frantically,soon spotting a nearby alley. That seemed to offer them an avenue of escape. "Over there!" he exclaimed,and headed right for it. The ground bound members of the group following behind him.

"Anzumon give us some cover!" he shouted to his partner.

"Give her a hand,Ginryumon!" Gale added.

The two champions gave a nod to their partners. Ginryumon fired off several volleys of spears. They pierced into the ground,creating a few small barricades to block their enemies pursuit. Anzumon then began to flap her wings powerfully,kicking up a small dust storm,to slow their progress even more. With their jobs done,they took off,following their companions. Still keeping to the air,and looking out for anymore of the mind controlled townsfolk.

The group dashed through a pair of back alleyways,and came out on one of the main roads. From there they could see the entrance was blocked by another group of digimon,and toys. With their avenue to Locomon blocked off,they needed another plan of action. They all quickly came to the agreement,that they needed a safe place to hide. So they could regather themselves,and think of a plan. To that end,Ginryumon,and Anzumon reverted to their rookie forms,as to draw less attention. Wizardmon kept his form,saying he had something in mind once they were hidden.

They soon a found a suitable location to hide out nearby. It appeared to be a store of some kind,no one could tell what it sold however. Using her lock picking skills,Gatomon had them inside in seconds,the group locking the door behind them. Once they were sure the inside was secure,Wizardmon got to work putting his little plan into motion.

He made several signs with his hands,before waving them over himself,and the rest of the group. "Magical Game!" he called,and flicked his wrist,to point a hand toward a nearby window.

Outside,in a flash of light,seven illusory copies of himself,and the others appeared. Using his will, he commanded them to run. The others looked outside,just in time to see them follow his directions. A group of the townsfolk,passed by only moments later,chasing after the illusions with avengeance. Everyone turned to Wizardmon with wide eyed expressions. As he was enveloped in light,and returned to his rookie form once more.

Misaki immediately ran over to him,almost exploding with excitement. "That was amazing! How did you do that?" She exclaimed ecstatically,just barely keeping her voice down to a half whisper.

Magimon puffed up with pride,and put a hand to his chest. "It's just something I've been working on."

"How long will those illusions last?" Chakoramon asked.

He turned to her before replying. "If I had to guess,maybe twenty minutes at most."

"That should give some leeway,before they start searching for us." Ryudamon stated.

Chakoramon took a quick glance upward. Noting the rafters,as well as a rounded,decorative window above. "I'll go up,and keep look out. I'll be able to see more up there." She took flight,and perched herself in front of the window.

"I'll help you." said Gatomon. She then leapt up on to the rafters as well. Taking her place beside the bird digimon.

Gale took a peek out the window again,before hammering her fist into a nearby table. This drew everyone's attention from down below. "Fuck,man. Why? Why do we have do deal with all this? Because of some prophecy?" She chuckled bitterly,her companions looking on worriedly. "This is such bullshit. We should be home,with our families! Not running for our lives!" She hammered her fist harder this time,jostling a nearby shelf.

After a few tense seconds of silence,Derek crossed his arms,and sighed. "Honestly,I agree. Having all this stuff thrown on us,it's a raw deal. I honestly hate the idea of some destiny deciding what path I should take."

Gale turned about to face him. "Then why the hell did you even bother to come with us?"

Derek looked up to the rafters,and gestured his head to Chakoramon. "I did it for her,and I guess a little for myself too. When she looks at me,she sees a good person,that's capable of great things." He put a hand to his chest. "I want to try,and better myself,and become the person she thinks I can be."

Gale quickly looked to Misaki,eyes softening. "What about you? You miss home right? Don't you just want to go back?"

Misaki clasped her hands at her waist. Her eyes searching back forth for nothing in particular,as she pondered her response. "You're right,I do want to go home. So much it makes my heart ache,just to think about it." Her hands gripped tighter,and she met Gale's eyes. "But I want to help this world just as much. The world that some of my friends call home." She turned to Magimon,and returned her gaze to Gale. "Not just our partners,but all the other digimon we've met. I wanna help them."

She took in a deep breath. "Sure it'll be hard,I'll still miss home,and I'll shed more tears. But I'll deal with it...and not just by myself,but with you,and the others."

Everyone was floored by Misaki's declaration. Magimon looked up to her,feeling his heart swell with pride. Gale almost staggered back,her mouth working to try,and form a response. Then finally,she gave a heavy sigh,and ran a hand through her hair.

"God,why am I always so wrong?" she said,hanging her head. "I feel so stupid. I'm such a selfish idiot."

Ryudamon had heard enough. He stepped forward,pointing a claw in her direction. "You are not selfish!" Gale jumped slightly in surprise,at the dragon's words. His features softened,as he stepped even closer. "You have every right to feel the way do."

Misaki nodded in agreement. "Ryudamon's right. Your feelings are no less valid,and you most certainly are not selfish." She smiled at the other girl. "Though you don't show it that much,you do care about your friends. A selfish person wouldn't consider my feelings,and you did."

Gale blushed slightly at all the affection she felt from her friends. Her lips curled into a smile,and she kneeled down to give Ryudamon a quick hug. She then turned to Misaki,the bespectacled girl looking almost expectant. Gale rolled her eyes,and opened up her arms. Misaki smiled,and approached,the two sharing their own quick embrace.

"You're getting used to this whole hugging thing aren't you?" Ryudamon said,giving Gale a smirk.

Gale,and Misaki parted,and she turned to the dragon. "Yeah,well,I think I've had enough touchy feeliness for one day." There were a few seconds of awkward silence,before she quickly cleared her throat. "Anyway,we need to think of a plan."

Ryudamon took on a more serious countenance,and,nodded in agreement. "I think we have to start going under the assumption,that we're the only ones who haven't been captured."

Misaki put a hand to her chin,brows knitting in worry. "The question is,where have the others been taken to?"

"They could be anywhere." said Magimon. "It would take us hours to search all of the town. Even without being pursued by enemies. We have to narrow our search somehow."

"Well they all captured at that theme park." Gale pointed out. "Maybe they didn't get taken too far."

Derek crossed his arms,and leaned against a nearby wall. His mind began to work,as he considered Gales words. "That would make sense." Suddenly,like a bolt from the blue,an idea struck him. "That's it! The castle!" Everyone turned to the boy curiously. He stood up straight,and faced them all before answering. "When Chakoramon,and I were wandering around we came across this castle looking place. The digimon running it said it was under construction."

Gale gave a nod. "Sounds like the perfect cover,to keep people from snooping around."

"Exactly what I was thinking."

With that new lead,the group's decision was made. Once they were assured that the coast was clear,they headed back out into the town. They kept to the alleyways,and sidestreets,to avoid being spotted. Eventually making their way back to the theme park,and to the candy colored castle. When they approached,they found that the main gate was just for show,and didn't actually open. After searching around the area,they found a small side entrance,the door unlocked. This immediately aroused suspicion within the group. All them entering with the utmost caution,knowing full well,it could be a trap. They walked through a darkened hall,flashlights lighting the way,before coming out into a giant space.

Upon a cursory glance,this appeared to be the only room. The castle seemingly a hollow facade,for this giant room alone. The floor was made of a soft,cushiony material,with patches of colors all over it. Giant stage lights hung from the ceiling,shining down,and bathing the room in their glow. Murals,of childlike scenes were painted on the giant walls. Piles of toys,and giant lego building blocks were dotted all around. Finally,near the center was a wooden stage,with flowing pink,and red curtains. A pair of drama masks,sat above it,and one of the stage lights from above,shined directly onto it.

Once the group moved further in,they suddenly heard a slow clapping,echoing along the walls. A cheery voice soon following it.

"Bravo! Bravo! You've done well to find my little play room!" The voice giggled,and cackled,the clapping becoming more frantic.

Gale scowled,and clenched her fists. "Where the hell are you asshole,and what did you do with our friends!?"

There was another giggle,before a figure slowly descended from the ceiling. He stood tall,and his limbs,were long,and thin. His arms were segmented,almost like an accordion,or a long piece of folded paper. White gloves,decorated with a stylized spade,covered his long thin fingers. A ruffled collar of white was wrapped around his neck. A three pronged jester hat,sat atop his head,each prong tipped with a little bell. A smiling drama mask,covered his face,his true features hidden in shadow. Brightly colored harlequin clothes,with coat tails made up the rest of his ensemble.

Derek's d-brace flickered on. "Pierrotmon,Ultimate level,Puppet type digimon. A fiendish digimon who loves nothing more than to 'play' with his enemies. He is extremely powerful,even among ultimates. His special attack is Malevolent Marionette."

The clownish digimon did an over exaggerated bow. "I'm right here little girl. I am Pierrotmon,so good to meet you!" He chuckled playfully,and stood up straight. "As for your friends…"

He gestured his arm to the stage in the center of the room. The curtains slowly parted,revealing each of the captured digidestined,and their partners. They were suspended a foot or so above the stage by a multicolored rope,and their bodies were bound tightly. All of them completely unconscious.

"Let them go you son of a bitch!" Gale growled.

"Oh you're free to take them." Pierrotmon replied with another chuckle. "However,I don't think they'll be of much use to you without these!" He clapped his hands together,and summoned forth,Trent,Chloe,and Kiko's d-braces. With several tumbling flips,he landed on stage.

"Now there are two ways this could play out." He continued,as he began to juggle the digivices. "One,is that I go with the easy option." With another clap he made the digivices disappear,and in their place,was a wicked looking dagger. He spun it about,and brought the blade to Chloe's cheek.

"Leave her alone!" Misaki pleaded,daring not to move from where she stood. The others looked on with varying degrees of fury,and followed Misaki's example,not making another move.

Pierrotmon chuckled maniacally,before continuing. "The easy way of course,would be to hold your little friends here for ransom,and force you to hand over your digivices. But…" He made the dagger disappear,and stepped off the stage. "...that wouldn't very fun now would it?" The smile of his mask somehow widened,into a face splitting grin. "So,I think I'll take the second option. Killing all of you,and prying them from your lifeless corpses!" He opened his arms wide. "So let's play,shall we!?" He charged toward the group,cackling madly.

The partner digimon leapt into action,the digidestined raising their digivices. Orbs of goldish orange,blue,and violet,enveloping the three rookies.

"Ryudamon warp digivolve to...Hisyarumon!"

"Magimon warp digivolve to...Mistymon!"

"Chakoramon warp digivolve to...Simurghmon!"

The three ultimates charged to meet the clown. Not one to stand on the sidelines,Gatomon followed right behind them.

"Hammer Space!" Pierrotmon called as he ran. As if from nowhere,the clown produced a giant mallet,hefting it in both hands. He leapt into the air,and came down swinging on Mistymon.

The wizard summoned forth his sword,and raised it to block the strike. The two weapons collided with a powerful clang,that rang through the room. Using his momentum,Pierrotmon flipped forward,landed behind Mistymon,and struck out with a powerful spinning kick. That sent the wizard flying several feet.

Up above,Simurghmon opened her beak,wind beginning to swirl within. "Howling Tempest!"

The stream of pressurized wind blasted toward Pierrotmon. With the greatest of ease,he backflipped out of the attacks path. The wind stream continued on its course,blasting a hole in the floor. As Pierrotmon landed,Hisyarumon fired a pair of light rays at the ultimate. The twin attacks being dodged,with a graceful cartwheel.

Pierrotomon giggled,and turned to see a charging Gatomon. "Well aren't you a cute little kitty?"

Gatomon's eyes narrowed,as she leapt at him. "Lighting Paw!" A swift jab smashed into Pierrotmon's gut,making groan in pain. Before another struck him right in the face.

Pierrotmon chuckled,and stood up straight. "You're tougher than you look." he commented.

She hissed at the ultimate,and bared her claws. "Don't you forget it pal!"

With surprising speed,Pierrotmon rushed behind the feline. "Not tough enough though. Hammer Space!" Gatomon didn't have time to react,as the hammer smashed into her,sending her rocketing across the room. "Fore!" Pierrotmon cried,as she crashed into one of the piles of toys.

"Gatomon!" Hisyarumon yelled.

The cat digimon slowly extricated herself from pile,and staggered out. "I'm alright!" she replied with a groan of pain.

Hisyarumon allowed himself a quick sigh of relief,before turning to the clown with a snarl. He flew toward him at high speed,and snapped at him with his jaws. Pierrotmon barely dodged the dragons sharp fangs,and leapt up into the air. With a clap of his hands he produced six palm sized bombs,each with a lit fuse,and a smiling face. He juggled the bombs for a few seconds,before dropping them down onto Hisyarumon.

"Madcap Grenade!"

The bombs went up like fireworks,as they impacted into his armored hide. A thick cloud of smoke,and a rainbow of sparks spewing forth from their confines. Pierrotmon cackled,as his little devices exploded,and he came to land gracefully on the ground. Right next to Mistymon.

The wizard thrust forth his open hand toward the other ultimate. "Mystic Flame!"

The jet of arcane fire blasted forth at his call. Pierrotmon bent over almost completely backwards to avoid the attack. Mistymon didn't let up,and rushed forward,swinging out with his sword. The clown leapt back,the tip of Mistymon's blade still cutting deep into his chest. He looked down,to see liquid data leaking from the wound.

He chuckled manically. "This is getting interesting."

As the battle waged between the digimon. The three humans rushed over to the stage to try,and free their friends. It took some doing to get them down,and unbound. Once they were,they attempted to wake them. Despite their best efforts however,their friends remained unconscious. With no way to wake them just yet. They all activated their barriers,bringing them together into a singular bubble of energy. That shielded them,and their unconscious friends from harm.

Pierrotmon flipped out of the path of both Mistymon's and Simurghmon's attacks. Arcane fire,and pressurized wind,blasting into the ground he once stood upon. He stood up straight,a few more scratches,and small wounds now visible on his body.

He held up both hands,and curled his fingers. "Lets kick this up a notch,shall we? Malevolent Marionette!"

From each of the clowns fingertips,strands of razor thin wire shot forth. They slithered through the air,five of them attaching themselves to Hisyarumon,and Simurghmon. The two ultimates immediately felt a jolt of pain run their bodies. Their muscles spasmed,and twitched involuntarily,as they groaned in pain. Mistymon paused,looking back forth between his companions in confusion. While Gatomon,and the three digidestined,let out cries of dismay.

"Now,let us play,my little puppets." Pierrotmon said with a chuckle. He slowly began to move his fingers,into varying positions.

Simurghmon,and Hisyarumon both felt a tug all over their bodies. Slowly,against their will,they began to move,stiffly,and awkwardly.

"Whats happening?" Hisyarumon groaned,as his crystals moved to aim at Mistymon. In the air,Simurghmon,struggled,her beak opening,and aiming at the wizard as well.

Pierrotomon flicked up a pair of his fingers. Hisyarumon's gems began to glow with power,and wind gathered in Simurghmon's beak. "Now,fire!' Pierrotmon commanded.

The twin gems unleashed their rays of light,and flew toward Mistymon. While up above there was a thunderous boom,as the stream of wind was launched from Simurghmon. Mistymon leapt back,barely dodging the twin attacks. Pierrotmon chuckled,and swiftly waved one of his hands. Hisyarumon felt a pull along his body,and lurched toward Mistymon. With another motion of the clowns hand,the dragon swung his armored tail at the other ultimate.

Mistymon raised his blade to block,and was pushed back by the force of the swing. His feet grinding a pair of ruts into the floor. Pierrotmon then came down with his other hand,forcing Simurghmon to dive. There was a flick of fingers as she dove,her claws extending at the command. Mistymon heard her approach,and ducked low,her talons still digging deep into his back as she swooped over.

Misaki took a step forward,and screamed. "Mistymon!"

"Come on Hisyarumon! You can fight it!" Gale yelled,raising her digivice.

"Yeah,don't let this guy control you Simurghmon!' Derek added,as he did the same.

Both of the teens d-braces glowed a little brighter,sigils shining. Hisyarumon,and Simurghmon felt a rush of power flow through their bodies. With cries of defiance,they fought against Pierrotmon's control. Suddenly,Pierrotmon could no longer fully control them,barely managing the twitch of a limb. Finally,with another burst of strength,the two ultimates snapped the puppeteer's strings. Pierrotmon recoiled back,a wave of pain rushing through his fingers,as his control was lost. With their partners,free,Gale,and Derek,pumped their fists,and cheered. Misaki,and Gatomon both giving sighs of relief.

Pierrotmon's mask twisted from its perpetual smile,into an angry frown. '"It seems controlling you is more trouble than it's worth." He wave his hand over his face,his smile returning. "But that,is not the full limit of my ability. Malevolent Marionette!"

Once more,thin strings stretched from Pierrotmon's fingers. They snaked their way toward several of the piles of giant building bricks,and toys. The strings soon pulled all of the piles together. Pierrotmon then began to make a multitude of complex finger motions. The mound of toys and blocks,began to stack,and form together. Slowly coming together into coherent shapes,limbs,a head,and body. When they all of the pieces slid into place,the form they had created towered over the three ultimates. It was a giant golem like creature,with powerful arms,and glowing yellow eyes.

Pierrotmon cackled maniacally,his smile growing even wider. "Now the game really begins!"

The giant golem lumbered forward,and swung down with its fist. Mistymon stepped forward,as the gigantic fist barreled toward him. He raised his hand,and curled it into a fist of his own.

"Mage Hand!"

At his call a giant fist of arcane energy was summoned forth. Mistymon swung out with a punch,the phantom limb following his movement. The two fists collided,creating a small shock wave that ripped through the air. There was a brief struggle of power,Mistymon groaning with effort. Eventually,the golem's strength won out,and it's fist banished the hand of energy. The giant's hand smashed into the ground,and sent Mistymon flying. He righted himself midair,and landed to his feet. Still feeling the shock of the impact.

Hisyarumon flew toward the golem,his body wrapped in golden radiance. "Seiryujin!"

The dragon's body morphed into a giant katana,and swung at the golem. Using both of its hands,the amalgamated creature,caught the blade. A resonating metal sound rang at the clash. With a swift motion from Pierrotmon,his puppet tossed the blade aside. It slammed into the far wall,before reverting back to Hisyarumon.

Simurghmon circled around the giant,and bared her talons. Her sharp eyes zeroed in on the strands controlling the monstrosity. Pierrotmon caught the griffon in the corner of his vision. He lifted up his arm,commanding the golem to take a swing with its mighty hand. Its open palm flew toward the bird digimon,and swatted her like a fly. The impact sent her spinning through the air,before plummeting toward the earth. Just before smashing into the ground,she recovered,and spread her wings. Stopping herself just short,and taking back to the air.

As Misaki watched the three ultimates continue their battle. She noted the golem's construction,trying to find some kind of weak point. Her mind worked a mile a minute,before an idea finally struck her.

"Aim for the joints!" she shouted at the top of her lungs. "If you take them out it'll lose its structural integrity!" Gale,and Derek looked to her,and complimented her on the idea.

"You heard the lady Hisyarumon!" Gale shouted,as she turned back to face the battle.

"Take him down a peg Simurghmon!" Derek commanded,cupping his hands around his mouth.

The three partner digimon nodded,and quickly put Misaki's plan into action. Mistymon ran alongside the golem,to get better a angle of attack. He stretched out his open palm,and mustered his strength,summoning forth the largest gout of flame he could manage. The violet flames blasted into the golem's shoulder joint,completely incinerating it. The arm fell away,and crashed to the ground,shaking the floor with its weight.

Hisyarumon made his move next,charging up his gems with power. The twin sunbursts combined into a single beam,and blasted into the golem's knee. With a loud rumble the limb fell to the ground. The golem slowly listed to one side,and fell to its remaining knee. Simurghmon then swooped in for her own attack. Her wings tucked around her body,as she began to spin.

"Cyclone Lance!"

The griffon,turned living drill,pierced straight through the golem's remaining shoulder joint. Her body spiraled out the other side,and the wind energy dissipated around her. She spread her wings,to finally stop her momentum,and returned to her normal flying pattern.

Pierrotmon growled in fury,mask twisting into an angry scowl. As he tried to reassemble his creation,he suddenly felt a presence beside him. He turned,to see Mistymon charging his blade with arcane energy.

"SpellSword!"

Pierrotmon barely dodged the flurry of slashes that followed,but was caught by one final thrust. The energy infused blade stabbing him straight in the shoulder. The clown growled,and summoned forth a trio of grenades,tossing them at the wizard. Mistymon withdrew his blade,and leapt back,dodging the explosives. Pierrotmon made a move to follow,when he was blindsided by twin rays of searing energy,that burned his body,and the force sent him flying several feet.

Before the clown had any time to recover,Simurghmon swooped down,and hurtled toward him. Her body began to spin,once more becoming a wind infused drill. Pierrotmon made some attempt to block the attack,but to no avail. The tip of Simurghmon's iron hard beak,drilled straight through him,his body exploding,limbs flying,and head falling to the floor. The three d-braces clattering alongside them.

As his arms and legs scattered into particles,Pierrotmon's head smiled. "You may have beaten me,but this is only the beginning of the fun! You have no idea what lies in store for you! All hail Lord Lucemon!" With the last of his breath,he cackled,as his head dissolved into data. His maniacal laugh echoing through the room,before fading into silence.

With that final omen,the group's victory felt oh so bittersweet.

"Lucemon?" Misaki half whispered. "I feel like I've heard that name."

Gale turned to her. "Where?"

Misaki shook her head. "I'm not sure,it might have been in one of my visions. But,we can worry about that later." Her two companions gave nods of agreement.

From afar,the partner digimon reverted to their in training forms,and recovered the trio of digivices. Kyokyomon immediately rushed over to help Gatomon,while Poromon,and Demimeramon returned to their partners. The dragon,and feline pair joining them a minute later.

After half an hour of waiting,the first of the sevens companions finally started to come to. Chloe's eyes fluttered open,before she sat up with a groan.

She rubbed at her forehead. "Oh,what happened?" Before she had anytime to process her surroundings,Misaki wrapped her in a tight hug.

"Thank goodness you're okay!" she cried,as she tightened her grip. After Chloe recovered from the surprise,her lips curled into a soft smile. She then returned Misaki's gesture,and simply enjoyed the other girl's touch.

It didn't take much longer for the others to come to as well. All of them receiving hugs,and other shows of affection. Though none quite as extreme as the one Chloe received from Misaki. Once everyone was brought up to speed,the reunited group headed out,and back into town.

After going through the park,and to the town's main street. The group began to see many of the townsfolk,looking around blearily,as if they had just awoken from a deep slumber. Once their faculties returned to them,they came to an amazing realization. They were free! No longer did they feel the tug of Pierrotmon's strings,his laugh filling their heads. There were cheers,and cries of utter joy,some of the townsfolk even breaking down into tears.

As Gale watched them smile,and cry with joy. She could not help but recall the moments when they freed the prisoners from Phelesmon's tower. As well as when she,Ryudamon,Trent,and Huckmon returned the villagers from the jungle village,home. In that moment she knew that while she still hated the idea of prophecy,and destiny. She also knew that in those moments,and this one,she felt fulfilled,and happy. The thought made her face split into a gentle smile.

To Be Continued...

Next Time On Digimon Saga! Episode 30:A Knights Path, Part 1

Author's Notes

Hey guys,this would have been put up several days earlier. But we had a flood last week,and I didn't have internet for a few days after. Anyway,quite a bit to talk about this time round. First off gotta give some shout outs to the new followers/favoriters. There's quite a few this time. azure37410, eldergrayskull, Americaiuno, HazordousMDdragon, Reevee21,and finally woody4. Thank you all! Also this fic now has over 6000 views! Thank you for all your support!

Next up is the original digimon of this chapter,Pierrotmon. His name comes from the french word Pierrot,which means clown. Finally,since a new arc of the story has begun,that means we have a new opening,and ending theme to go with it. The new opening,is Shine on by Vinyl Theatre,and new ending theme is We Could Be Heroes by Alesso.

Thank you all for reading!