1 Many Secrets
Book II of The Guardian Angel Sequence
1.1 Prologue
Once, about three years ago, a dolphin/eagle/white tiger joined up with eight children and Digimon. She stayed with them for a long time. She soon revealed herself and her friends. After many different things going on, many battles, and other things, they had to face the ultimate evil. This girl and her sister fought him and won, restoring peace to the world. The group of children, now containing ten and not eight, returned to their world, leaving their greatest friends, their Digimon partners, behind. Now the ten Digi Destined children are once again needed in the Digital World. And so they return…
(The Story)
A fourteen-year-old boy walked up a hill, hands shoved in his pockets, looking at the ground. He didn't know what had brought him here, he had just come home from soccer, told his mom he was going for a walk, and let his mind wander as he walked. As he walked, he remembered. He remembered Agumon and his Crest of Courage. He remembered his other friends, the Digi Destined. None of them had seen each other since they came back from the Digi World besides he and Kari and Jenny and Julie. He sighed and looked up, looking at where he was. He found himself at the bottom of a hill, where, at the top, was an old house where he had first taken shelter from snow at a summer camp three years before. It was also the place he had first come to the Digital World. He felt a sudden longing.
"Hey, who is that?" A voice called as Tai came up the hill. Tai looked around. Another boy about his age stood up from the base of a tree. Even though it had been three years, they both looked almost the same as they had. Tai and the boy gave cries of recognition and they ran into each other's arms.
"Tai, I can't believe it's you!" The boy cried.
"Oh, Matt, I haven't seen you since…you know." Tai said. Matt held him out at an arms length.
"You still look the same." Matt said.
"As do you." Tai said. "I wonder if any of the others will be coming this way." As if to prove his words, a boy who held a laptop and was apparently very interested in it walked up the hill.
"Hey!" Matt called. The boy looked up.
"Matt! Tai!" Izzy said, running forward. Another boy came over the hill muttering:
"This is horrible for my allergies. Oh well."
"Hey, Joe!" Izzy called. Joe looked up.
"So that's why I felt like walking around here."
"Hey, it's you!" A girl's voice called. Two girls ran up. One was wearing a blue cap, as she had three years before, and the other wore her 'trademark' pink hat.
"Sora! Mimi!" Joe said.
"Hey, don't leave us out!" Two practically identical voices called. Two twins ran over the hill and stopped in front of them.
"Hey Jenny, hey Julie." Mimi said.
"That only leaves…" Izzy started, but stopped when two eleven year olds ran up to them.
"Hi guys." Kari said.
"Wow, we're all here." Tai said. "Tell me if I'm wrong, but this doesn't seem like a coincidence." The others agreed. Something glittering on the ground caught Tai's eye. He knelt down to look.
"What is it, Tai?" T.K. asked. Tai straightened up with a gasp.
"No way." He whispered. He held up what he was holding. It was his Tag and Crest. The others found their Tags and Crests on the ground, beside them their Digivices.
"I thought I lost mine on the way back." Jenny said. The others nodded agreement.
"Okay, can we put two and two together?" Izzy asked. "I mean, come on. We all end up in the same place at the same time, the place where we first went to the Digital World. That and we all suddenly find our lost Tags and Crests, plus the Digivices. Does this mean…we're going back?" The others thought about this a moment. A spiral thing opened in front of them.
"Well, what do you think?" Matt asked.
"Let's go." Tai said. Together, they entered the rift. They all fell into unconsciousness, as they had before. They woke up beside each other. Tai remembered waking up like this once three years ago with Koromon on his chest, prodding him awake. But this time there was no Koromon. He and the others got up and looked around them. Jenny and Julie weren't there. They heard a sound of hooves pounding, and Tai motioned them into the bushes to hide. They crouched there, watching for who it was. An indigo winged unicorn, followed by a gold one, cantered out of the woods. Two cloaked figures sat on them. The kids thought they recognized the winged unicorns.
"That's Cheyenne and Dancer, isn't it?" Kari asked. She and the others stood up. The cloaked figures on the horses pushed back their cloaks. It was Renee and Adrienne. They smiled at the happy kids as they ran out of the bushes.
"It has been a long time." Renee said quietly. "And evil has returned."
"How much time has passed here?" Tai questioned. "Three years have passed in our world."
"Many have passed here." Adrienne said.
"Where are Jenny and Julie and our Digimon?" Joe asked.
"Let us explain. It is a long story." Adrienne urged. They all sat down to talk.
"Many peaceful years passed here. Lucarinia and all the evil Digimon were gone. Or so we thought. We made a dreadful mistake, it should have been seen. Lucarinia had indeed disappeared, taking his evil band with him. Secretly, he built his power and passed it onto the evil Digimon - mainly one, to take his place.
"This one's name is Entianmon. As we found out, there is a stage that goes beyond the Mega level, almost impossible to reach, unless an incredible amount of energy is transferred to one. This level is called the Mystical level. Entianmon could not be harmed by ten Mega level Digimon. Entianmon captured your Digimon partners and holds them captive so they can neither Digivolve to the Mega level from the Ultimate levels they are trapped in or Dedigivolve to lower levels.
"However, as we found out, eight Digimon very recently traveled here that are rumored to be extremely powerful with certain help. They are dwelling in the mountains.
"A prophecy was foretold that when the eight Digimon partners of yours were captured and could not defeat their captor that eight new Digimon with the ability to Digivolve into higher levels would come to be new, possibly temporary, partners to the Digi Destined. You must search for them and then we will come to help you find Entianmon's castle. You must free your Digimon partners and defeat Entianmon. Then another task lies before you, but that can wait." Renee stopped here.
"So we have to find these eight new Digimon to help us free our old Digimon partners?" Sora asked. Renee nodded.
"But where are Jenny and Julie?" Joe asked.
"Leoparamon and Biriamon were not captured. Jenny and Julie landed near them and we will soon send you where they are." Adrienne said.
"Where do we find our new Digimon partners?" T.K. asked.
"It won't be too hard. Izzy, a map of the Digital world should be installed on your computer. You can zoom in on sections. Anyway, there is a line of several mountains. The eight Digimon came as a group and split up at the mountains. They each live on one of the mountains. And there is this, in case of trouble" Renee said. She held up a small gold circle like a coin. An 'R' was carved on the front. "Anyone carrying something like this is someone you can trust." She paused. "Are you ready to go?"
"As ready as we'll ever be." Tai replied.
The group of eight Ultimate Digimon sat on the stone cold floor of the dungeon in Entianmon's castle, thinking. Entianmon, a Mystical level Digimon, had captured them not long ago. They had no idea how they would get free.
The door to the dungeon slid open. Entianmon stood in the doorway. He kept himself cloaked and his voice shadowed so they wouldn't know who he was.
"Well, if it isn't the Digimon partners of the Digi Destined." He hissed. "I hope this room is comfortable. I have some information that could be good or bad. Your human partners have returned and are looking for some new Digimon. I can have the pleasure of destroying you all." He smirked and left the room. The Digimon exchanged looks.
"If they have returned, is it really good or bad?" Lillymon asked.
"It's good." Zudomon said firmly. "Joe and the others will be able to free us. And they will have the help of eight other Digimon, apparently."
The eight kids stood at the base of the first mountain, waiting for Jenny and Julie. They heard a flapping of wings and Leoparamon and Biriamon landed in front of them.
"Hi, again." Jenny said.
"Do you guys know about what we have to do?" Tai asked.
"Yeah," Julie said, "Brittany and Emily met us with Leoparamon and Biriamon when we landed here. We're really sorry about what happened."
"Being sorry won't help us find our Digimon friends," Izzy said, "So we'd better start up these mountains. Renee said to start at the first mountain and continue that way." He and the others started up the first mountain. It was pretty easy going, and they stopped every now and then for rests. About halfway up the mountain when they stopped to take a rest, they heard a pounding sound. Tai's Crest began to glow as what looked like a large red triceratops galloped into view, stopping when it came up to them. It had horns along its back and two on its head that were orange.
"That's Horniomon." Izzy said, using his Digimon analyzer. "He is a Champion stage Digimon with a powerful attack called 'Horn Missile'."
"Hello." He said. "I am Horniomon. What are you doing here? It is dangerous."
"We're new here." Matt said cautiously. "Why is it dangerous? We –" He was cut off by an angry squawk and a shadow blotted out the sun. A humungous bird-like creature with large, razor, silver talons dived out of the sky at them.
"That's Talomon." Horniomon said. "He is an Ultimate stage Digimon, evil to the bone. Or should I say, talon. He has razor sharp talons that can slice through the thickest metal in a second."
Talomon began angrily attacking Biriamon and Jenny. Biriamon motioned Jenny back and she and Talomon battled in the sky.
"Ice Burner!" Biriamon shouted. Beams of ice shot from her wings and mouth. Talomon dodged and dived at her, knocking her down into the ground.
"Biriamon!" Jenny shouted. Tai felt a surge of courage and ran forward.
"Hey, overgrown vulture! Tin-can talons, over here!" Tai shouted, running forward, waving his arms to distract Talomon. His Digivice activated and his Crest began to glow. Talomon gave an insulted shriek and dived at him.
"Aaahhh!" Tai screamed its talons extended towards him.
"Horniomon Digivolve to…" Horniomon began to glow. "Silverhornmon!"
Tai held up his arms above his face instinctively.
"Tai! No!" Matt shouted. Suddenly, a blur whizzed by and Tai was gone. Talomon's talons slammed into dirt. The blur stopped. It looked like Horniomon, but different. It was covered in silver armor and silver horns were along his back and forehead. Tai was on its back.
"I am Silverhornmon." The creature said. "The Ultimate form of Horniomon. My attack is Silver Horn Blast." Tai jumped to the ground.
"Thanks." He said, clearly still awed. Silverhornmon nodded and ran up to Biriamon.
"Thank you, Silverhornmon. And you as well, Tai." Biriamon said.
"Biriamon," Jenny called, "You can't fight him well at the level you're at." She was clearly indicating something. Biriamon nodded as Jenny's Crest began to glow.
"Biriamon Digivolve to…Sleriamon!" Sleriamon looked a little like Garudamon, but only a little. She had much longer wings and her talons turned a bright blue color. Her body was a silver color. She had arms and hands like a human's.
"Sleriamon, shall we take Talomon?" Silverhornmon asked her.
"It would be my pleasure." Sleriamon answered. The two turned to Talomon.
"Silver Horn Blast!" Silverhornmon cried.
"Fiery Ice Beam!" Sleriamon cried. The two attacks flew at Talomon. Talomon shrieked a last time and disappeared. Sleriamon reverted back to Rianmon. Silverhornmon reverted back to Horniomon. The two went back to the others.
"Wow, awesome job." Jenny said.
"I don't know how I was able to Digivolve." Horniomon said, shaking his head. "I found this wrapped around one of my horns." He held up a string that was like a necklace. On the end of it was a small orange gem. It was about the size of a Tag and Crest. Tai noticed his Crest glowing, and he reached out and took the gem.
"I think I'd better keep this. It looks like something I'll need." He said softly, putting it around his neck beside his Tag and Crest. "Horniomon, we need to explain some things out about why we're here. Maybe you can help us."
They told about how they had come here and been told about what they had to do and about the eight new Digimon they had to find that would help them.
"I am new here, and I came to these mountains with seven fellow Digimon. I believe we are the ones you are telling us about. I also carry this." Horniomon said. He held up a gold circle-like thing with an "R" engraved on the front.
"I will gladly join you on your quest, and will defend you and be your friend as I know Metalgreymon would." He smiled at Tai's surprised face. "My seven friends and I saw the eight just before they were captured. They told us where to go and about themselves."
"Where can we find your other seven friends?" Tai asked.
"I know that one of them was planning to make his home in the Glacier Caves. I'll take you there."
A Gizamon nervously entered the room where Entianmon sat enthroned.
"Lord Entianmon, we have bad news." The Gizamon said.
"Tell me." Entianmon ordered.
"They have found the first new Digimon. Talomon did not stop them."
"Send others."
Horniomon led them down to the foot of the opposite side of the mountain at sunset. They reached a cave hidden in the mountain. If Horniomon had not pointed it out, they would not have noticed it.
"There. The Glacier Caves. We will be welcome." Horniomon said, leading them out of the cold of night into a cave. It was empty, except for a glowing fire and supplies and things hanging on the walls. Horniomon found some blankets and wrapped the cold kids up in them. Leoparamon and Biriamon kept Julie and Jenny warm with their wings. As the kids settled around the fire to wait, Matt noticed his Crest glowing. He wondered if that meant his new Digimon partner was nearby.
"What are you doing in here?" A soft, deep voice asked. It sounded threatening and surprised, even a bit curt. They turned towards the voice, which was at the mouth of the cave. A figure larger than a human, dressed in black, with two long swords hanging from his back stood in the mouth of the cave. It looked like a ninja. Only its eyes were showing, and it's hands and feet looked like that of a human's. Horniomon sat up so the Digimon could see him.
"Do not harm them, Ninjamon, my friend." Horniomon said. Ninjamon's attitude changed at once.
"My humblest apologies." He said, bowing. "I thought you were intruders, like some that have trespassed on my home and wrecked it. Please, accept this in my apology." He held up a string with a dark blue gem on the end. It looked like Tai's gem, but blue. Matt took it, seeing his Crest glow.
"Thank you." They said.
"I was out looking for food." Ninjamon said. "I will share it with you, and you might share with me why you are in these mountains. Here is proof I am not evil." He held up a gold coin like thing. It had an "R" engraved on the front. Ninjamon began handing them food and building up the fire. As they ate and got warm, the kids explained about why they were in the mountains and why Horniomon was with them. They told Ninjamon about the battle with Talomon and how Horniomon had Digivolved. Last, they explained that they needed Ninjamon to come with them, if he would.
"I will gladly come with you." Ninjamon said immediately. "And, because I see your friend Matt's Crest glowing, I take it that I am his partner." His eyes sparkled, and it seemed that he was smiling. "Tomorrow we can start out to the next mountain." He turned to Horniomon. "I do believe we will find Clovenmon around there, won't we?" Horniomon nodded.
"Yes. Tomorrow we shall look." He turned to the kids. "Sleep, you will need your rest." The kids settled down into blankets to sleep. After everyone was asleep, Matt got up and went outside. He sat in the mouth of the cave and pulled out his harmonica. He began to play a tune his dad had taught him when he was younger. Closing his eyes, he played into the night.
Someone touched his arm and he dropped his harmonica, startled. He turned and there, sitting there beside him, was Ninjamon. Ninjamon picked up the harmonica and looked at it.
"What is this?" He questioned.
"It's called a harmonica. You can play music on it. My dad gave it to me." Matt said.
"Play it." Ninjamon said. Matt took the harmonica and resumed playing the song he had been. When he finished, Ninjamon's eyes were sparkling like they did when he smiled.
"You play very well." He said.
"Thank you." Matt said, smiling. His smiled faded a little. "Did you know him?"
"Who?" Ninjamon asked.
"Weregarurumon."
"Yes." Ninjamon replied softly. "He and the others always talked about you." Matt smiled. Looking up at the stars, he picked out some of his favorite constellations.
"Do you like stargazing?" Ninjamon asked.
"A little." Matt replied.
"The stars can tell many things. The centaurs at Rainbow Valley are always foretelling prophecies from the stars." Ninjamon said. Matt nodded.
"Do you know about Gemini?" Matt said, pointing to the constellation of Castor and Pollux in the sky.
"I do indeed know the secret of Gemini." Ninjamon said. "Though few do."
"I wonder if we shall see them here again." Matt said.
"Make no mistake, Matt." Ninjamon said, rising. "The daughters of Arthur and Guardian Angels of all that is good will return." He extended a human hand to Matt and pulled him to his feet. "Come now, Matt, we must go to bed." He and Matt went back into the Glacier Cave and went to sleep.
The next morning, they began to climb the third mountain. They stopped to rest in a large field.
"Well team," Tai said, "We've found two of our new companions, and will soon be onto the third."
"Your point?" Matt asked, yawning.
"Well," Tai paused, "It means we're one…or two…steps closer to-"
"Quiet." Ninjamon interrupted. "I hear something." Everyone fell silent. If they listened closely, an angry snorting could be heard. It sounded like a bull. Ninjamon and the other three Digimon moved in front of the kids.
Suddenly, a sound of pounding hooves was heard and a creature that looked like a minitaur galloped into the clearing.
"Minitaurmon." Ninjamon said softly.
"Hold your distance." Horniomon called to the charging bull-like creature.
"I will not." The low, hissing voice said. "Entianmon has given me orders." He stood where he was, aimed, and charged at them.
"Ninja Swords!" Ninjamon said, throwing his swords at Minitaurmon.
"Lightening Charge!" Minitaurmon countered. Knocking the swords away. He gathered more speed and charged again. Just as he had nearly run into them, another voice called out.
"Psychic Blast!" Minitaurmon fell back. Joe's Crest began to glow. A creature appeared in front of them. He turned to face them.
"Ah, Clovenmon." Horniomon said. Clovenmon smiled. The Digimon was as large as a tiger, though a tan color. His tail was three times' the size of a tiger's, curling over his back. Two brown horns emerged from his head.
"Hello, all." He said, his voice ringing in the air. His eyes met Joe's. "I know of your quest, and your friends. Allow me to join you, after we defeat Minitaurmon." He smiled, turning back with the others to Minitaurmon. He and Ninjamon charged at Minitaurmon. Minitaurmon knocked them back with his attack.
"No, Ninjamon!" Matt shouted, his Crest beginning to glow.
"Clovenmon, get up!" Joe called, his Crest also glowing.
Ninjamon struggled to his feet, glowing, as did Clovenmon.
"Ninjamon Digivolve to…Martialmon!" Martialmon was slightly bigger than Ninjamon. Except his clothes were white and a black belt was tied around his waist. His eyes, hands, and feet were all that were showing. Also, two long bamboo sticks replaced the swords.
"Clovenmon Digivolve to…Bronclovemon!" Bronclovemon was about ¾ the size of Zudomon. He was erected onto hind legs and white pant-like things covered his legs. The curled horns on his head remained, and he turned a golden color of bronze.
"Alright!" Joe and Matt called. Bronclovemon and Martialmon charged once again at Minitaurmon.
"Bamboo Blade!" Cried Martialmon.
"Bronze Missiles!" Cried Bronclovemon.
The attacks crashed into Minitaurmon, and he disappeared. Martialmon and Bronclovemon reverted back to their Champion forms, Ninjamon and Clovenmon and ran to the others.
"Awesome job, Clovenmon." Joe said.
"Nice work, Ninjamon." Matt said. The two Digimon nodded. Clovenmon passed Joe a gray gem.
"Looks like we've found three new partners, gang!" Tai said triumphantly.
"True, Tai," Sora said, "But remember, we still have to find over half of the rest of them."
"Hey, I'm trying to be optimistic. Not a downer." Tai replied.
"We should try to reach the top of this mountain by nightfall, even though it is only noon." Clovenmon said.
"Why?" Joe asked, "It would be easier to just skip going all the way over the top and go around from where we are."
"True," Clovenmon said, "But we believe that Tiransmon is dwelling at the very top of this mountain. We must pass by there to see." The kids looked slightly surprised, the same question on each of their faces.
"Do you think Tiransmon is one of our new partners?" Izzy asked.
"He was one of our companions." Ninjamon said.
"Let's go." Tai said.
So they started out, hiking up all the time. The day went by quickly. Mimi constantly complaining about how she couldn't hike up all these rocks and cliffs. When they stopped to set up camp for the night, which was fairly close to the top, it was still light out. An hour or two of light remained.
"I'm going to explore a bit." Izzy told the rest of the group. "I want to see what sort of things are around here. Maybe I can find out where Tiransmon is."
"Be careful." Tai said, and Izzy went off.
He was walking around; looking at what sort of vegetation there was, when he stumbled onto a cave.
"Curious," He said softly. He decided to explore. Maybe Tiransmon was in there. He entered the cave, making enough noise so as not to frighten anyone or anything that might be in there. The cave itself did not stretch very far back. Kabuterimon could have fit in it.
Since he didn't see anything back in the cave, he turned to leave. But the form of a large bird-like creature blocked the entranceway to the cave.
"Who has trespassed on my cave?" Boomed a voice. "Another enemy to disturb me?"
"Tiransmon," Izzy said softly to himself. The creature was a dark green color with feathers like a bird. Its wings were scaly like a dragon's, though. It was about the size of Kabuterimon. Izzy had to dodge as Tiransmon let a spurt of flame at him.
"Hey, I'm not here to trespass." Izzy said. Tiransmon did not answer for a moment.
"Why are you here? Step into the light." Tiransmon said. Izzy stepped closer to the dragon/bird Digimon.
"I was looking around for something to eat, and I was looking for you." Izzy explained.
"Why for me?" Tiransmon demanded.
Izzy explained out about his group and how they were looking for the new partners.
"I see." Tiransmon said after a moment.
"Will you join us?" Izzy asked, showing Tiransmon his Crest, which was glowing.
"When I came here, I promised to guard this mountain and its dwellers against evil. I will come to you in the morning and tell you what I have decided." Tiransmon said. "I realize that I am your partner, Izzy, but I must consider my promise."
"Of course." Izzy said. "That is perfectly reasonable. Thank you for letting me talk with you instead of cooking me." Tiransmon managed a smile.
"Take this." He said, and he gave Izzy a gem. Like the ones the others had.
Izzy nodded and turned and went back to the group, telling them about Tiransmon. After a while, they went to sleep.
The next morning, they waited for Tiransmon before leaving. He turned up around noon.
"Sorry I am late." He apologized. "I couldn't find breakfast."
"Hello, Tiransmon." Horniomon said, standing by the other two new Digimon. "It has been a while." Tiransmon nodded a greeting to them.
"I have decided." Tiransmon said, glancing at Izzy.
"Yes?" Izzy said.
"I must stay. I cannot journey with you. My promise will be kept." Izzy looked away. Horniomon, Ninjamon, and Clovenmon just stared at Tiransmon.
"Consider your decision, my friend." Ninjamon said softly. Tiransmon did not answer. He only spread his wings and flew back to the top of the mountain.
"Well," Tai said after a long pause, "I guess we have to keep going."
"Between the two mountains is where we will find the next one." Clovenmon said.
The search for the last four Digimon took five days. Izzy was upset about Tiransmon, but tried not to show it.
They found Sora's partner next, in a valley between two mountains. When a group of Garbagemon attacked, Horsoiamon, Sora's new partner, showed up and attacked them. She got knocked out of the battle and Sora's love for Horsoiamon caused Horsoiamon to Digivolve to Wingunimon and knock the Garbagemon into next week. Sora also received a gem from Horsoiamon.
Mimi's partner was harder to find. They knew she was in a middle of a forest, but they didn't know where. It was easy to get lost in the forest, so Horsoiamon offered to Digivolve and take Mimi to look for her partner, since Wingunimon could fly. The group agreed, so Horsoiamon Digivolved to take Mimi to look. They flew over the forest for a while, searching for a sign of the new partner.
"Wait, Wingunimon, fly down lower a second. I think I heard something." Mimi said suddenly. The Digimon dipped lower. Mimi heard it again.
"Did you hear that?" She asked the Digimon. Wingunimon nodded. The Digimon flew lower, looked around a moment, and landed. Mimi got off and looked around. Then she spotted someone at the base of a tree. It looked like Lillymon, but bigger. That and rose petals covered the Digimon's body.
"Rosenmon." Wingunimon said softly to Mimi. Rosenmon was sobbing softly. Mimi went beside her and knelt down.
"Rosenmon?" She asked softly. The Digimon started, and looked at her.
"Who are you?" Rosenmon asked, stopping her sobbing.
"I'm Mimi." Mimi replied, her Crest glowing. "What's wrong?" Rosenmon was silent a moment.
"You wouldn't understand." Rosenmon said finally.
"Don't be sure of that." Wingunimon said softly.
"You're here?" Rosenmon said, surprised. She stood. Mimi did as well. "Well, I guess I could tell you." Rosenmon paused again.
"There is a group of Redvegiemon and Vilemon that are always picking on me and torturing me. And they're Ultimate Digimon, so I can't do anything about it." She stopped.
"Well, I can change that." Mimi said softly. She explained out about her and her friends and their quest.
"Well, I would love to come with you." Rosenmon said, smiling.
"With me, you can Digivolve to your Ultimate level and teach those "Vile Veggies" a lesson." Mimi said, changing her usual soft, no-fighting attitude.
As if on cue, a group of Vilemon and Redvegiemon appeared. They snickered at Rosenmon and dived at Mimi.
"Mimi, look out!" Rosenmon shouted, and Mimi's Crest and Digivice began to glow, as did Rosenmon.
"Rosenmon Digivolve to…Dayinianmon!" Dayinianmon was about the size of Lillymon but had bright yellow flowers all over. Wings that seemed to be made of cattail plants sprung from her shoulders. A daisy plant was her weapon. She turned to the group with a new look on her face, and she moved in for the attack.
Entianmon's roars of fury echoed around the castle. The Gizamon and the other servants stilled and were silent.
"What do you mean, they have found six? That they have only two to find? This does not please me." Entianmon said, containing his voice to a deathly whisper. He thought for a moment. "It is time to call an old evil one back to deal with them. Go." The cloak he wore was still in place, but he trembled with fury. Finally, he calmed and moved out of his throne room. Moving down hallways and flights of stairs, he finally reached the door to the dungeon.
Meanwhile, in the dungeon, the Digimon were discussing things as they heard Entianmon's shouts of rage.
"This must be good news for us." Angemon said. "It has been a while, and it sounds like our human friends have found most of their partners."
"They will have trouble saving us, with the maze this castle is." Weregarurumon said. Everyone nodded in silent agreement.
The door to the dungeon slid open. The cloaked figure of Entianmon stood in the doorway.
"Just little information for you." He said sourly. "Your friends have found six partners, and seem to be enjoying it." He smirked. "Oh, and another thing for you to think about: Your friends may start thinking they like their new partners better than their old ones and think about abandoning you. Such ones as their new ones would not be so foolish to be captured so easily." He swept out of the room, the door slamming shut behind him.
The Digimon exchanged looks, and then were silent.
"He is lying." Metalgreymon said. "I do not believe Tai would do such a thing." Seven luminous heads slowly nodded in agreement.
The ten kids and eight Digimon, with Rosenmon added to their number, trekked up the sixth mountain, finally reaching the top. They looked down the opposite side, and let out audible gasps. It was a sheer drop down the other side. Sharp, long rocks poked out at the very bottom.
"How in the world will we get down?" Sora asked.
"We can fly." Clovenmon said. "I can see a flat part down there, about halfway down, that we can rest and stop on."
"All right, let's do it." Tai said.
"Horniomon Digivolve to…Silverhornmon!" Silverhornmon flexed his large wings.
"Ninjamon Digivolve to…Martialmon!" Martialmon was graceful and swift enough that he could carry Matt down that part of the mountain, finding footholds.
"Clovenmon Digivolve to…Bronclovemon!" Bronclovemon's bronze wings seemed to glitter in the sunlight.
"Horsoiamon Digivolve to…Wingunimon!" Wingunimon's horn and wings were nearly the same color and mingled together.
"Rosenmon Digivolve to…Dayinianmon!" Cattail wings strong enough to hold the air so Dayinianmon could fly were amazing.
Tai and Kari clambered onto Silverhornmon's back. Martialmon prepared to carry Matt down the mountain. Joe helped T.K. onto Bronclovemon's back. Wingunimon knelt down so Sora could mount. Dayinianmon held Mimi's hands to fly down. Jenny and Julie got onto Biriamon and Leoparamon's backs.
Together they flew (or in Martialmon's case, climbed,) down the mountain until they reached the spot Bronclovemon had told them about. As the Digimon Dedigivolved, a soft growling could be heard. The Digimon exchanged looks.
"Show yourself." Horniomon said. An indigo wolf-like creature leaped from the shadows. The three things that made it unlike a wolf was that it was much larger than a normal sized wolf, it was a dark blue color, and two saber toothed tiger teeth emerged from its mouth.
"Oh, nothing to worry about." Rosenmon said. "That's Wolfmon, one of our companions when we first came here. He's very kind." As she said this, T.K.'s Crest began to glow.
"Well he isn't looking very kind right now." Tai said. Wolfmon was growling, crouched low to the ground.
"Hey, look!" Mimi said, pointing.
"No way!" Joe said.
"Prodigious, it is!" Izzy said. "It's a Black Gear!" And indeed, a Black Gear, clearly belonging to the long gone, apparently, Devimon, was sticking, barely noticeable, out of Wolfmon's back.
"Before we do anything," Joe cautioned, "Remember that Black Gears make those they control more powerful. So even if Wolfmon is a Champion Digimon, the Black Gear probably makes him more like a very powerful Ultimate Digimon."
"Joe's right, but we have to do something." Tai said. "Digivolve!"
Each of the Digimon Digivolved, but got knocked easily away by Wolfmon, Dedigivolving back to their Champion forms. All but Silverhornmon, Martialmon, and Bronclovemon. They fought on, and suddenly, making contact with Wolfmon, were knocked clear back to their Rookie forms, Trimon, Honormon and Janormon.
"No, get up!" Tai shouted, and he, Matt, and Joe ran to their partners.
"Water, there…" Honormon said pointing to a spring trickling by a couple yards away. Trimon and Janormon nodded. Tai, Matt, and Joe cupped some of the water in their hands and brought it back to their partners. The Digimon drank it, and suddenly, they, their partners Crests and Digivices began to glow.
"Trimon Warp-Digivolve to…Goldspikemon!" The new, Mega Digimon was winged and his body was covered with gold plated spikes. His body was covered with gold armor, and his wings were gold with the Crest of Courage on them.
"Honormon Warp-Digivolve to…Medivalmon!" This Digimon was winged, as well. Armor that seemed to come from medieval times covered his body. Also, this Digimon carried the long swords from his Champion level and the bamboo sticks from his Ultimate level. Now he carried a shorter sword in a scabbard, and a shield at his side.
"Janormon Warp-Digivolve to…Aquaclovemon!" Aquaclovemon was a bit…weird. He had wings, yes, but they were made of fish scales. So he could fly and swim. Two horns sprouted from his head and curled back to an armored back. His tail was very unusual. It was long, and one half had fish scales on it, the other half had fur.
The three Mega Digimon turned to Wolfmon.
"Yeah, go Goldspikemon!" Shouted Tai.
"Medivalmon, teach that wolf a lesson!" Matt called.
"Go get him, Aquaclovemon!" Joe cried.
"Shall we?" Medivalmon said to the other two Mega Digimon.
"Let's do it." Aquaclovemon said.
"Gold Spike Spray!"
"Knight Sword!"
"Water Counter Attack!"
The three attacks flew towards Wolfmon and the Gear. Wolfmon howled in pain as the Gear flew out of his body and disappeared. He collapsed on the ground, and T.K. ran to his side.
"You alright, Wolfmon?" T.K. asked.
"Who…are you?" Wolfmon asked slowly, pushing himself to his feet.
"I'm T.K." He replied. He introduced the others and told Wolfmon about their quest and all. Wolfmon considered it a moment.
"Because you saved me from control from the Black Gear, I will come with you. That, and I wish to help you." Wolfmon said. He gave T.K. a gem like the others had.
"Yeah!" T.K. said happily.
"Seven down, one to go." Tai said.
"Who else must you find?" Wolfmon asked.
"Kari's partner." Matt said.
"Deeranmon." Horniomon said.
"What about Tiransmon?" Izzy asked.
"We will find him, or he will find us, if need be." Ninjamon said.
"Let's go find Kari's partner, and maybe we can head to Entianmon's castle tomorrow." Tai said. So they moved out. Between the eight of them, the Digimon could take their partners over to the next mountain. They hadn't gone far when the sound of softly crunching leaves. They stopped and listened.
A deer-like creature that was clearly female, despite her antlers, leaped from the bushes.
"Deeranmon." Wolfmon said.
"You're finally here." Deeranmon said in a soft voice. "Someone told me that you were coming, so I came to meet you. I know about your quest, and I am coming." Deeranmon turned to Kari and trotted to her side. Nosing her, she smiled. Kari smiled as well. Deeranmon motioned for Kari to take the gem from her forehead.
"Well, shall we keep moving?" Tai asked. Everyone agreed, and they covered ground by going around the mountain. As they came to the bottom of the mountain, night was falling. They stopped to rest on dry ground in a cave.
"Let's set up camp here for the night. It's dry ground and concealed." Tai said. So they settled down in the cave. Kari and Deeranmon went just outside the cave to talk.
"I'm glad you decided to come with us." Kari said. Deeranmon nodded.
"Of course. A Guardian came and told me you were coming. So I came to meet you."
Kari did not talk for a moment. She fingered the gem on the chain around her neck idly. She took it from her neck and looked at it.
"Deeranmon, do you know what these gems are for? Everyone in the group has one from you Digimon. I saw Biriamon and Leoparamon giving Jenny and Julie a gem as well." Kari asked.
"That, you must learn. The gems hold many secrets. You must kind the key to unlock the secrets. It lies within yourself." Deeranmon replied. She started to say something else, but a loud rumble cut her off. It came from not to far away, so Kari and Deeranmon exchanged a look that held the same question.
"Get on." Deeranmon said, lowering herself. Kari clambered onto her back and they set off silently.
A short time after they left to see what it was, Tai came out to check on Kari. When he looked at where she and Deeranmon had been, the space was empty.
"Kari!" He called into the night. There was no answer. He ran back into the cave where everyone else was relaxing around a fire.
"Guys, Kari and Deeranmon are gone!" Tai said. Everyone started up at that.
"They must have gone to see what that rumble was." Wolfmon said.
"Let's go find them." Sora said. They each got onto their Digimon, who trotted or flew out of the cave. The rumble was heard again. They set off in that direction.
Meanwhile, Kari and Deeranmon had reached the clearing where the rumble had come from. Kari got off Deeranmon's back.
"Stay back." Deeranmon warned. An evil laugh sounded and echoed around the field. A figure that the Digi Destined had fought a long, long, time ago appeared, though Kari did not know him.
"Devimon…" Deeranmon hissed. "Careful Kari."
"My brother and the others told me about him, but I never fought him." Kari said.
Devimon advanced, getting closer and closer by the moment, laughing evilly.
"Triple Horn!" Shouted a voice. Devimon fell back, however unharmed.
"Kari!" Shouted Tai. He came up on Horniomon, with the others close behind.
"You've spoiled my fun with this new Digi Destined. Now you will pay." Devimon hissed. "Evil Wing!" The attack flew at Kari and Deeranmon.
"Flame Breath!" Called another voice. Devimon's attack was knocked away. They all looked up. Flying steadily above them was…Tiransmon!
"Tiransmon!" Izzy called. "I thought you had to guard the mountain."
"I went on a vacation." He replied with a chuckle, landing.
"How are we supposed to beat this guy?" Tai asked the group. T.K. leaned over to Kari and said something softly to Kari. She thought about a moment, and then nodded. They turned to the others.
"We might have a way." T.K. said. "But only Kari and I can do it. We'll explain it later if you'll let us."
"T.K., it would put you in that kind of danger." Matt said, simply pointing at Devimon.
"Matt, remember how we first defeated Devimon?" T.K. asked softly. Matt said nothing for a moment, and then, with a small sigh, nodded.
"All right."
"Tai?" Kari said.
"I don't know." Tai said. "You haven't fought him before."
"I know, but I'll have Deeranmon there." Kari said. "And T.K. will be there too."
Tai sighed. "All right, Kari, but be careful."
Kari and T.K. motioned to Deeranmon and Wolfmon, and they trotted towards Devimon.
"Are you sure about this?" Wolfmon asked softly. T.K. nodded firmly.
"You." Devimon said with anger as he saw T.K. "You don't have Angemon to protect you now." T.K. stiffened a moment, and then relaxed as Wolfmon nudged him.
"No, not yet, but I have Wolfmon." T.K. said. His Crest was slowly beginning to glow, as was Wolfmon and his Digivice.
"And you." Devimon turned to Kari. "I had heard about you. And you have lost your partner as well." He laughed evilly again.
"I'll find her and get her back." Kari said. "But for now, I have Deeranmon on my side." Kari's Crest began to glow, as did Deeranmon and her Digivice.
"Look!" Tai said pointing at them. "That must have been what T.K. meant!"
"Wolfmon Digivolve to…Siriusmon!" Siriusmon was larger than Wolfmon. He looked almost the same as Wolfmon. But he was a white color with outspread wings that flashed like starlight. Also – he had points on his body that glowed like there were stars on him.
"Deeranmon Digivolve to…Cheribimon!" Cheribimon looked a little like one of those cherubim from a book called "A Wind In The Door" by Madeline L'Engle. Many different kinds of eyes blinked from a sphere-like body that simply floated in the air. Though Cheribimon only had four pairs of wings.
"Wow." T.K. gasped.
"That's amazing…" Kari said.
The two figures floated before Devimon.
"You face defeat again." Siriusmon said.
"Evil shall never win." Cheribimon said, her many eyes blinking rapidly.
"You must still face the Master of Evil…" Devimon said.
"Take them, I'll get him and meet up with you later." Siriusmon said to Cheribimon. Cheribimon seemed to nod, then turned to the remaining kids and Digimon.
"Look into my eyes." Cheribimon told each of them. They did, and it was as if her eyes suddenly became much larger. Each of them felt a sensation like an electric jolt, and they were in darkness. It was as if they had been taken into Cheribimon herself and were part of her as she disappeared with them from the battle.
"Telekinesis Transport!" They heard, or felt, her say as they disappeared.
"This does not please me." Entianmon thundered. "Is there no one beside myself that has the simple ability to take care of them? Because of your failure, they have found their partners - all of them." His voice was ringing throughout the entire castle.
"Master…" A Gizamon inched forward towards the cloaked figure. "They have all disappeared from the battle with Devimon, except the Digimon Siriusmon. He destroyed Devimon." Entianmon looked like he was swelling in fury.
"Then let them be warned that Entianmon will not be defeated." Entianmon hissed.
In the dungeon, Weregarurumon had his wolf ear pressed against the door, straining to hear news on the children. When Entianmon had stopped shouting, he turned back to the others, waiting anxiously.
"They have found all of their partners, and are close." Weregarurumon said.
All at once, the kids and Digimon felt another sensation like an electric jolt and they were suddenly tumbling on the ground in a tangle of arms and legs. They saw a black castle that seemed to melt in with the night not far away. They were in a strand of woods that ended several yards further. They heard the sound of beating wings and Siriusmon landed in front of them, folding his wings.
"Sorry about the jolt." Cheribimon said softly. "But I had to get you out of there."
"Devimon is as good as gone." Siriusmon said.
"What exactly did you do, Cheribimon?" Izzy asked.
"I pulled you all to me and used telepathy to transport us here."
"Prodigious." Izzy said.
"No kidding." Said a distantly familiar voice. "You finally made it." They all turned. There, standing just a few feet away, were the Guardians. Adrienne, Emily, Nikki, Renee, and Brittany and their winged unicorns were standing looking happy, surprised, and a bit afraid.
"You are on the borderline of Entianmon's boundaries." Emily said softly, and her voice held almost obvious fear.
"When can we go in to get our friends?" Kari asked.
"You must go tonight." Renee said. "Entianmon knows you are on your way, though he doesn't know that you came so far in seconds."
"We can transfer a map of the castle into your computer, Izzy." Brittany said. "It will show each of the rooms, passageways, and everything else in the castle. It will also show enemies approaching. If you sneak in, you shouldn't have a hard time getting to your friends."
"Well, we'd better get ready to go in." Tai said. "But then again, how do we get in?"
"We have created a secret entrance into the castle." Adrienne said. "It is in the wall beside the one that the dungeon is closest to."
Brittany transferred a map like she had said to Izzy's computer. She pointed out the dungeon and the hidden entrance. The dungeon was near the bottom left corner of the castle. The secret entrance was in the wall to the right. Entianmon's throne room was by the left wall, almost above the dungeon, which might be a problem.
"There are security systems and alarms placed in certain places, but the path marked on here avoids all of them." Nikki said.
"All right, this won't be hard, with the map." Izzy said. "Thanks."
"Go." Renee motioned them away. Softly, ten kids and ten Digimon made there way to the hidden passage. Silently, they passed through it and moved on, following Izzy's directions from the map. They soon came up to a solid wall.
"That's it." Izzy said. "The dungeon wall. It's supposed to be two feet thick."
"So they can't here us, obviously." Tai said.
"No, they can't."
"Can we knock it down?" Matt asked.
"I could, but it would make noise. Maybe too much." Clovenmon said.
"I can, as well." Horniomon said.
"Digivolve, and do it!" Joe said.
"Horniomon Digivolve to…Silverhornmon!"
"Clovenmon Digivolve to…Bronclovemon!"
The two together charged the wall. It rumbled slightly and left a few cracks. They charged again. More. They prepared to charge one more time.
The eight Digimon were simply sitting on the cold floor, wondering about when their partners would turn up. Suddenly, the right wall quivered and a rumble was heard.
"That might be them." Garudamon said, and the eight backed against the opposite wall to watch. Another rumble was heard, and several cracks appeared in the wall. A loud, final rumble echoed, and the wall caved in. As the dust cleared, Silverhornmon and Bronclovemon stood up and shook the remains of the wall off. The outlines of ten children and eight other Digimon became clearer, and they rushed forward. The newer partners stood back, along with Jenny and Julie.
Each of the kids ran to their partners and they embraced.
"We were afraid Entianmon was going to simply destroy you." Tai said. "Luckily we found some friends to help us."
"I have lived a long time." Ninjamon said wisely. "And I have never met anything such as luck."
"True," Siriusmon said. "I have not, either. Only fate and fortune."
"Well," Cheribimon broke in, sounding urgent. "We'll need fate favoring us if we're going to get out of here. I am sensing guards running to Entianmon. They heard the wall being knocked down and ran to tell him."
"He will know by now." Rosenmon warned.
"There may be a way to get out." Izzy said. "Brittany told me that Entianmon has no guards in his throne room or the hall that leads to it. He prefers to be alone. And according to this map, the hall leading to his throne room is directly above us. We can go down the hall, through Entianmon's throne room, and out through the balcony or wall."
"One flaw." Tiransmon said quietly. "You think Entianmon will simply stand by and watch us pass through?"
"A diversion." Megakabuterimon said.
"Who, though?" Sora asked. "Entianmon is a level higher than Mega."
"We will do it." Horsoiamon said, gesturing to her and the other seven new partners. The other seven agreed quickly.
"No," Matt said, "Like Sora said, he's higher than Mega! A diversion will be impossible."
"Not if we can help it." Cheribimon said, seeming to smile, blinking her eyes in unison. Silverhornmon, Ninjamon, and Bronclovemon shrank back to their Rookie forms. Exchanging a look, they nodded.
"Trimon Warp-Digivolve to…Goldspikemon!"
"Honormon Warp-Digivolve to…Medivalmon!"
"Janormon Warp-Digivolve to…Aquaclovemon!"
The three Mega Digimon waited patiently as the three remaining Champion Digimon exchanged a look.
"Tiransmon Digivolve to…Dragonmon!" Dragonmon looked like a full- grown dragon. Two horns curled from his head, pointing forward. The ever- burning flame on the end of his tail flared up.
"Horsoiamon Digivolve to…Wingunimon!"
"Rosenmon Digivolve to…Dayinianmon!"
Together, the new and old Digimon partners broke through the ceiling, taking their human friends up through the hole in the ceiling as it collapsed.
"Okay," Goldspikemon said. "We will go in. When you hear the battle, come through." They nodded. The three Mega Digimon and the five Ultimate Digimon slipped down the hall and charged into the room. It was just seconds before they heard the roars of anger from the battle. The ten Ultimate Digimon picked up their human friends and flew into the room. Goldspikemon, Medivalmon, Aquaclovemon, Siriusmon, and Cheribimon were fighting Entianmon. The others were fending off guards. Goldspikemon made a quick motion towards the balcony. The older partners, with great reluctance, flew out through the balcony and to the forest – and safety.
"Look!" Matt said, pointing, "Oh, no…" There came a crash and the three Mega Digimon came flying backwards through a wall near the balcony. There was another, louder explosion and the Ultimate Digimon came flying through the opposite wall of the balcony. They all landed hard near them and Dedigivolved back to their Rookie forms.
"Oh, no!" T.K. shouted. The Rookies struggled to their feet and stumbled of flew over to them.
"Sorry, Tai," Trimon said. "Entianmon is too strong."
"We'll try." Angewomon said, gesturing to the other nine Ultimate Digimon.
"No, you'll just get hurt." Kari protested.
"What do we do?" Matt asked. "We can't just stand around and watch."
Sora turned to Carianmon, Horsoiamon's Rookie form.
"Do you think you can Warp-Digivolve?" Sora asked quietly, keeping their conversation as private as possible.
"I don't know." Carianmon replied. "But I don't think even all of us as Mega Digimon could put a dent in Entianmon."
"I know." Sora said. "But I'm wondering about what one of the Rider's told me alone. She told me that our new partners would have the ability to defeat Entianmon by Digivolving to a level as high as he is. She told me that before that could happen, you have to try to beat him, even if you're at a Mega level. I think that's essential to find the key to your Digivolving to the level higher than Mega – the Mystical level."
"You really think so?" Carianmon asked, cocking her head.
"Well, you won't know if you don't try." Sora said, smiling. "Hey, guys!" She called to the other kids and told them about her plan.
"Good idea." Tai said. "Besides, maybe Entianmon will make a mistake and you guys can get him as Mega Digimon."
"Yeah, right," Izzy said, "But let's try it. You up to it, guys?" He said to the Digimon.
"Yep." They said in unison.
"Trimon Warp-Digivolve to…Goldspikemon!"
"Honormon Warp-Digivolve to…Medivalmon!"
"Janormon Warp-Digivolve to…Aquaclovemon!"
"Flamemon Warp-Digivolve to…Golddragonmon!" Golddragonmon was slightly smaller than Dragonmon, with a pair of gold-armored wings. His body was covered in gold armor as well, and his wings, along with his tail, were outlined in ever-burning fire.
"Carianmon Warp-Digivolve to…Kinunimon!" Kinunimon had outspread wings that were made of pure silver, though there were feathers. Her mane and tail carried a silver light that sparkled. Her horn was spiraled in silver, as well.
"Petamon Warp-Digivolve to…Violetmon!" Violetmon had a pair of wings from each of her stages, and a new pair that were made from violet petals. Her body seemed to be covered in a single violet, and she held a purple flower in her hand.
"Legdmon Warp-Digivolve to…Celestimon!" Celestimon seemed to be a single point of bright blue light. He could assume any form he wished, though usually a human-like creature with wings that glowed with a bright blue light. He also usually appeared as Sirius or Pegasus, two constellations in the night sky.
"Methmon Warp-Digivolve to…Celestiamon!" Celestiamon looked like Celestimon, though she appeared as a bright purple light, not a blue one and the form she usually used was with feminine features – a human-like creature with wings that glowed with a purple light. She also could assume the forms of the Eagle and the Unicorn in the night sky. Celestimon and Celestiamon were alike and unlike a lot like Angemon and Angewomon were.
"All right!" All the kids cried.
"Let's go." Goldspikemon said.
"We're coming too." Metalgreymon said, gesturing to the other nine Ultimate Digimon.
The eight Mega Digimon and the ten Ultimate Digimon took to the air or ran along the ground. The kids stood anxiously at the edge of the forest to watch the outcome and battle. They watched as their partners stood or floated just in front of the castle, an obvious challenge.
"Ready for more?" Hissed the evil voice from inside the castle. "I thought you'd had enough." A cloaked form broke through the castle wall and sped through the air. Entianmon stopped abruptly and removed his cloak. He was armored in gold metal, and two wings looked as sharp as double-edged swords.
"Give him the full Digimon attack!" Cried Tai, he and the others were standing at the edge of the woods, watching.
"Gold Spike Spray!" Goldspikemon cried.
"Knight Sword!" Medivalmon called.
"Water Counter Attack!" Aquaclovemon put in.
"Fire Whip!" Golddragonmon cried next.
"Silver Magna!" Kinunimon.
"Violet Pummel!" Violetmon.
"Pegasus Wing!" Celestimon.
"Eagle Talons!" Celestiamon.
"Giga Blaster!" Metalgreymon.
"Garuru Kick!" Weregarurumon.
"Vulcan's Hammer!" Zudomon.
"Horn Buster!" Megakabuterimon.
"Wing Blade!" Garudamon.
"Flower Cannon!" Lillymon.
"Gate of Destiny!" Magnaangemon.
"Celestial Arrow!" Angewomon.
"Fiery Ice Beam!" Sleriamon.
"Fire Stripes!" Bengamon.
All of these attacks went flying towards Entianmon. He raised his hands in either direction. The attacks all bounced harmlessly off. The battle went on like this for a while. Entianmon would not prevail. Suddenly, instead of blocking attacks, he released one of his own.
"Mystic Claw!" He cried. His attack, like a wave of darkness, pushed back all of the Digimon. They all dropped to the ground.
"Oh, no!" Each of the children cried in unison. Then, suddenly, their Crests began to glow, and the gems beside them glowed in the same way. The Crests and Gems rose and hovered in the air.
"Have Courage!" Tai shouted.
"Combine your Friendship!" Matt called.
"Be Reliable!" Joe cried.
"Use your Knowledge!" Izzy.
"Let your Love glow!" Sora.
"Have Sincerity!" Mimi.
"Have Hope to win!" T.K.
"Let your Light shine!" Kari.
All at once, the new Digimon partners began to glow.
"Goldspikemon Gem-Digivolve to…Couragemon!"
"Medivalmon Gem-Digivolve to…Friendshipmon!"
"Aquaclovemon Gem-Digivolve to…Reliabilitymon!"
"Golddragonmon Gem-Digivolve to…Knowledgemon!"
"Kinunimon Gem-Digivolve to…Lovemon!"
"Violetmon Gem-Digivolve to…Sinceritymon!"
"Celestimon Gem-Digivolve to…Hopemon!
"Celestiamon Gem-Digivolve to…Lightmon!"
Each of these new Digimon that had somehow managed to Digivolve to a higher level than Mega, appeared only as various colored beings of light. They each assumed a form that glowed and seemed fuzzy around the edges. Couragemon looked a little like Goldspikemon and a little like Metalgreymon. Friendshipmon looked a little like Medivalmon and a little like Weregarurumon. And so on and so forth for the rest of them.
"No!" Cried Entianmon. "It's not possible! I will not be defeated!"
"Not if we have anything to say about it." Said the new Digimon partners in unison. The Ultimate Digimon had shrunk back a little, whether out of fear or respect or both, from the Mystical Digimon. The Mystical Digimon turned to them and the children, who were watching with awe.
"Look!" Tai said. He held up his amber-orange gem. It was glowing brightly.
"That must be what made them Digivolve!" Sora said. They fell silent and watched the Digimon. Couragemon had reached out his hand to Metalgreymon.
"Take my hand." Couragemon said. Metalgreymon retaliated by reaching out his own claw and taking Couragemon's. As he did, they both glowed brightly and somehow formed into one being. It was still Couragemon, but Metalgreymon seemed to be in him too. The other Mystical Digimon did the same to the Ultimate Digimon. The same happened to each of them. Now, eight Mystical Level Digimon and two Mega Digimon, Griffomon and Sabeleoparamon, the Mega forms of Rianmon and Keilemon, stood in front of Entianmon.
"They must have been very desperate and at last resort to have sent you." Entianmon said with a snarl.
"So what if we were?" Tai called out.
"I will not be defeated." Entianmon said. "Even if I must face eight Digimon the same level as myself." At a snarl from Griffomon and Sabeleoparamon, he added with a sneer: "And two puny Mega level Digimon." Griffomon and Sabeleoparamon flew together at Entianmon.
"No, don't!" Jenny called. They both peeled away at the moment Entianmon countered their attack with blasts of fire. Scorched, but all right, the two landed next to Jenny and Julie.
"All right," Matt called to the Mystical Digimon, "Go in for the attack!" The Mystical Digimon lined up and flew or leaped forward. They attacked in a final, devastating blow to Entianmon, who screamed in rage as he disappeared.
The Mystical Digimon turned back to the children, who were gaping in surprise, and dropped to the ground. The Ultimate Digimon were separated from the Mystical Digimon, and the Mystical Digimon shrank back into their Ultimate forms. The kids ran up to each of their partners.
"Are you all right?" Kari asked Angewomon and Cheribimon. They both nodded.
"You did very well." Said a quiet familiar voice. They all turned. Emily, Renee, Brittany, Adrienne, and Nikki stood there, watching them with smiles.
"Okay, so we defeated Entianmon and all of our Digimon except for Sleriamon and Bengamon. Now can we take a vacation? In the Digital World?" Tai said bluntly. The Guardians chuckled.
"For a while, yes. But a few more quests await you. All more challenging than the one you just accomplished." Renee said. "A new quest will take place soon, but not until the Girl of the Mountain appears. Ancient prophecies that we look to for reference foretell that she will appear and you must overcome obstacles to find her."
"That is not for a while, though." Emily put in. "You can relax until we call you."
"What, do you have cell phones to call us on?" Joe tried at a joke. He sighed as no one laughed, but only stared at him, but everyone cracked up at the look on Joe's face.
"Actually, we don't have cell phones to use." Brittany said with a smile. "But when you hear the music that sound a little like a flute or a clarinet, go to the source. It plays a song at noon and midnight. It is the same song, and you will know it most surely when you hear it."
"We won't be able to help you after this until you find the Girl. For now, relax, and listen for her music." Renee said finally. She and the other Guardians turned their winged unicorns, and flew away into the sunset.
"Well, a little rest, then our quest, then." Sora said. They turned to the castle of Entianmon. It was collapsing. As soon as all that was left of it was rubble, it began to rain. It was a warm rain, and the drops of water seemed to whisper of a new beginning, a dawn of good again. The Digi Destined and their Digimon turned and walked through the rain, and welcomed it as they found shelter and rested, the gentle lull of water in their ears, and they relaxed, taking a break before their quest for the Girl of the Mountain.
What is this quest and what will it be like? Find out in the next story of the Guardian Angel Sequence called "Mystery Encounter".
2 The End of Many Secrets
Book II of The Guardian Angel Sequence
1.1 Prologue
Once, about three years ago, a dolphin/eagle/white tiger joined up with eight children and Digimon. She stayed with them for a long time. She soon revealed herself and her friends. After many different things going on, many battles, and other things, they had to face the ultimate evil. This girl and her sister fought him and won, restoring peace to the world. The group of children, now containing ten and not eight, returned to their world, leaving their greatest friends, their Digimon partners, behind. Now the ten Digi Destined children are once again needed in the Digital World. And so they return…
(The Story)
A fourteen-year-old boy walked up a hill, hands shoved in his pockets, looking at the ground. He didn't know what had brought him here, he had just come home from soccer, told his mom he was going for a walk, and let his mind wander as he walked. As he walked, he remembered. He remembered Agumon and his Crest of Courage. He remembered his other friends, the Digi Destined. None of them had seen each other since they came back from the Digi World besides he and Kari and Jenny and Julie. He sighed and looked up, looking at where he was. He found himself at the bottom of a hill, where, at the top, was an old house where he had first taken shelter from snow at a summer camp three years before. It was also the place he had first come to the Digital World. He felt a sudden longing.
"Hey, who is that?" A voice called as Tai came up the hill. Tai looked around. Another boy about his age stood up from the base of a tree. Even though it had been three years, they both looked almost the same as they had. Tai and the boy gave cries of recognition and they ran into each other's arms.
"Tai, I can't believe it's you!" The boy cried.
"Oh, Matt, I haven't seen you since…you know." Tai said. Matt held him out at an arms length.
"You still look the same." Matt said.
"As do you." Tai said. "I wonder if any of the others will be coming this way." As if to prove his words, a boy who held a laptop and was apparently very interested in it walked up the hill.
"Hey!" Matt called. The boy looked up.
"Matt! Tai!" Izzy said, running forward. Another boy came over the hill muttering:
"This is horrible for my allergies. Oh well."
"Hey, Joe!" Izzy called. Joe looked up.
"So that's why I felt like walking around here."
"Hey, it's you!" A girl's voice called. Two girls ran up. One was wearing a blue cap, as she had three years before, and the other wore her 'trademark' pink hat.
"Sora! Mimi!" Joe said.
"Hey, don't leave us out!" Two practically identical voices called. Two twins ran over the hill and stopped in front of them.
"Hey Jenny, hey Julie." Mimi said.
"That only leaves…" Izzy started, but stopped when two eleven year olds ran up to them.
"Hi guys." Kari said.
"Wow, we're all here." Tai said. "Tell me if I'm wrong, but this doesn't seem like a coincidence." The others agreed. Something glittering on the ground caught Tai's eye. He knelt down to look.
"What is it, Tai?" T.K. asked. Tai straightened up with a gasp.
"No way." He whispered. He held up what he was holding. It was his Tag and Crest. The others found their Tags and Crests on the ground, beside them their Digivices.
"I thought I lost mine on the way back." Jenny said. The others nodded agreement.
"Okay, can we put two and two together?" Izzy asked. "I mean, come on. We all end up in the same place at the same time, the place where we first went to the Digital World. That and we all suddenly find our lost Tags and Crests, plus the Digivices. Does this mean…we're going back?" The others thought about this a moment. A spiral thing opened in front of them.
"Well, what do you think?" Matt asked.
"Let's go." Tai said. Together, they entered the rift. They all fell into unconsciousness, as they had before. They woke up beside each other. Tai remembered waking up like this once three years ago with Koromon on his chest, prodding him awake. But this time there was no Koromon. He and the others got up and looked around them. Jenny and Julie weren't there. They heard a sound of hooves pounding, and Tai motioned them into the bushes to hide. They crouched there, watching for who it was. An indigo winged unicorn, followed by a gold one, cantered out of the woods. Two cloaked figures sat on them. The kids thought they recognized the winged unicorns.
"That's Cheyenne and Dancer, isn't it?" Kari asked. She and the others stood up. The cloaked figures on the horses pushed back their cloaks. It was Renee and Adrienne. They smiled at the happy kids as they ran out of the bushes.
"It has been a long time." Renee said quietly. "And evil has returned."
"How much time has passed here?" Tai questioned. "Three years have passed in our world."
"Many have passed here." Adrienne said.
"Where are Jenny and Julie and our Digimon?" Joe asked.
"Let us explain. It is a long story." Adrienne urged. They all sat down to talk.
"Many peaceful years passed here. Lucarinia and all the evil Digimon were gone. Or so we thought. We made a dreadful mistake, it should have been seen. Lucarinia had indeed disappeared, taking his evil band with him. Secretly, he built his power and passed it onto the evil Digimon - mainly one, to take his place.
"This one's name is Entianmon. As we found out, there is a stage that goes beyond the Mega level, almost impossible to reach, unless an incredible amount of energy is transferred to one. This level is called the Mystical level. Entianmon could not be harmed by ten Mega level Digimon. Entianmon captured your Digimon partners and holds them captive so they can neither Digivolve to the Mega level from the Ultimate levels they are trapped in or Dedigivolve to lower levels.
"However, as we found out, eight Digimon very recently traveled here that are rumored to be extremely powerful with certain help. They are dwelling in the mountains.
"A prophecy was foretold that when the eight Digimon partners of yours were captured and could not defeat their captor that eight new Digimon with the ability to Digivolve into higher levels would come to be new, possibly temporary, partners to the Digi Destined. You must search for them and then we will come to help you find Entianmon's castle. You must free your Digimon partners and defeat Entianmon. Then another task lies before you, but that can wait." Renee stopped here.
"So we have to find these eight new Digimon to help us free our old Digimon partners?" Sora asked. Renee nodded.
"But where are Jenny and Julie?" Joe asked.
"Leoparamon and Biriamon were not captured. Jenny and Julie landed near them and we will soon send you where they are." Adrienne said.
"Where do we find our new Digimon partners?" T.K. asked.
"It won't be too hard. Izzy, a map of the Digital world should be installed on your computer. You can zoom in on sections. Anyway, there is a line of several mountains. The eight Digimon came as a group and split up at the mountains. They each live on one of the mountains. And there is this, in case of trouble" Renee said. She held up a small gold circle like a coin. An 'R' was carved on the front. "Anyone carrying something like this is someone you can trust." She paused. "Are you ready to go?"
"As ready as we'll ever be." Tai replied.
The group of eight Ultimate Digimon sat on the stone cold floor of the dungeon in Entianmon's castle, thinking. Entianmon, a Mystical level Digimon, had captured them not long ago. They had no idea how they would get free.
The door to the dungeon slid open. Entianmon stood in the doorway. He kept himself cloaked and his voice shadowed so they wouldn't know who he was.
"Well, if it isn't the Digimon partners of the Digi Destined." He hissed. "I hope this room is comfortable. I have some information that could be good or bad. Your human partners have returned and are looking for some new Digimon. I can have the pleasure of destroying you all." He smirked and left the room. The Digimon exchanged looks.
"If they have returned, is it really good or bad?" Lillymon asked.
"It's good." Zudomon said firmly. "Joe and the others will be able to free us. And they will have the help of eight other Digimon, apparently."
The eight kids stood at the base of the first mountain, waiting for Jenny and Julie. They heard a flapping of wings and Leoparamon and Biriamon landed in front of them.
"Hi, again." Jenny said.
"Do you guys know about what we have to do?" Tai asked.
"Yeah," Julie said, "Brittany and Emily met us with Leoparamon and Biriamon when we landed here. We're really sorry about what happened."
"Being sorry won't help us find our Digimon friends," Izzy said, "So we'd better start up these mountains. Renee said to start at the first mountain and continue that way." He and the others started up the first mountain. It was pretty easy going, and they stopped every now and then for rests. About halfway up the mountain when they stopped to take a rest, they heard a pounding sound. Tai's Crest began to glow as what looked like a large red triceratops galloped into view, stopping when it came up to them. It had horns along its back and two on its head that were orange.
"That's Horniomon." Izzy said, using his Digimon analyzer. "He is a Champion stage Digimon with a powerful attack called 'Horn Missile'."
"Hello." He said. "I am Horniomon. What are you doing here? It is dangerous."
"We're new here." Matt said cautiously. "Why is it dangerous? We –" He was cut off by an angry squawk and a shadow blotted out the sun. A humungous bird-like creature with large, razor, silver talons dived out of the sky at them.
"That's Talomon." Horniomon said. "He is an Ultimate stage Digimon, evil to the bone. Or should I say, talon. He has razor sharp talons that can slice through the thickest metal in a second."
Talomon began angrily attacking Biriamon and Jenny. Biriamon motioned Jenny back and she and Talomon battled in the sky.
"Ice Burner!" Biriamon shouted. Beams of ice shot from her wings and mouth. Talomon dodged and dived at her, knocking her down into the ground.
"Biriamon!" Jenny shouted. Tai felt a surge of courage and ran forward.
"Hey, overgrown vulture! Tin-can talons, over here!" Tai shouted, running forward, waving his arms to distract Talomon. His Digivice activated and his Crest began to glow. Talomon gave an insulted shriek and dived at him.
"Aaahhh!" Tai screamed its talons extended towards him.
"Horniomon Digivolve to…" Horniomon began to glow. "Silverhornmon!"
Tai held up his arms above his face instinctively.
"Tai! No!" Matt shouted. Suddenly, a blur whizzed by and Tai was gone. Talomon's talons slammed into dirt. The blur stopped. It looked like Horniomon, but different. It was covered in silver armor and silver horns were along his back and forehead. Tai was on its back.
"I am Silverhornmon." The creature said. "The Ultimate form of Horniomon. My attack is Silver Horn Blast." Tai jumped to the ground.
"Thanks." He said, clearly still awed. Silverhornmon nodded and ran up to Biriamon.
"Thank you, Silverhornmon. And you as well, Tai." Biriamon said.
"Biriamon," Jenny called, "You can't fight him well at the level you're at." She was clearly indicating something. Biriamon nodded as Jenny's Crest began to glow.
"Biriamon Digivolve to…Sleriamon!" Sleriamon looked a little like Garudamon, but only a little. She had much longer wings and her talons turned a bright blue color. Her body was a silver color. She had arms and hands like a human's.
"Sleriamon, shall we take Talomon?" Silverhornmon asked her.
"It would be my pleasure." Sleriamon answered. The two turned to Talomon.
"Silver Horn Blast!" Silverhornmon cried.
"Fiery Ice Beam!" Sleriamon cried. The two attacks flew at Talomon. Talomon shrieked a last time and disappeared. Sleriamon reverted back to Rianmon. Silverhornmon reverted back to Horniomon. The two went back to the others.
"Wow, awesome job." Jenny said.
"I don't know how I was able to Digivolve." Horniomon said, shaking his head. "I found this wrapped around one of my horns." He held up a string that was like a necklace. On the end of it was a small orange gem. It was about the size of a Tag and Crest. Tai noticed his Crest glowing, and he reached out and took the gem.
"I think I'd better keep this. It looks like something I'll need." He said softly, putting it around his neck beside his Tag and Crest. "Horniomon, we need to explain some things out about why we're here. Maybe you can help us."
They told about how they had come here and been told about what they had to do and about the eight new Digimon they had to find that would help them.
"I am new here, and I came to these mountains with seven fellow Digimon. I believe we are the ones you are telling us about. I also carry this." Horniomon said. He held up a gold circle-like thing with an "R" engraved on the front.
"I will gladly join you on your quest, and will defend you and be your friend as I know Metalgreymon would." He smiled at Tai's surprised face. "My seven friends and I saw the eight just before they were captured. They told us where to go and about themselves."
"Where can we find your other seven friends?" Tai asked.
"I know that one of them was planning to make his home in the Glacier Caves. I'll take you there."
A Gizamon nervously entered the room where Entianmon sat enthroned.
"Lord Entianmon, we have bad news." The Gizamon said.
"Tell me." Entianmon ordered.
"They have found the first new Digimon. Talomon did not stop them."
"Send others."
Horniomon led them down to the foot of the opposite side of the mountain at sunset. They reached a cave hidden in the mountain. If Horniomon had not pointed it out, they would not have noticed it.
"There. The Glacier Caves. We will be welcome." Horniomon said, leading them out of the cold of night into a cave. It was empty, except for a glowing fire and supplies and things hanging on the walls. Horniomon found some blankets and wrapped the cold kids up in them. Leoparamon and Biriamon kept Julie and Jenny warm with their wings. As the kids settled around the fire to wait, Matt noticed his Crest glowing. He wondered if that meant his new Digimon partner was nearby.
"What are you doing in here?" A soft, deep voice asked. It sounded threatening and surprised, even a bit curt. They turned towards the voice, which was at the mouth of the cave. A figure larger than a human, dressed in black, with two long swords hanging from his back stood in the mouth of the cave. It looked like a ninja. Only its eyes were showing, and it's hands and feet looked like that of a human's. Horniomon sat up so the Digimon could see him.
"Do not harm them, Ninjamon, my friend." Horniomon said. Ninjamon's attitude changed at once.
"My humblest apologies." He said, bowing. "I thought you were intruders, like some that have trespassed on my home and wrecked it. Please, accept this in my apology." He held up a string with a dark blue gem on the end. It looked like Tai's gem, but blue. Matt took it, seeing his Crest glow.
"Thank you." They said.
"I was out looking for food." Ninjamon said. "I will share it with you, and you might share with me why you are in these mountains. Here is proof I am not evil." He held up a gold coin like thing. It had an "R" engraved on the front. Ninjamon began handing them food and building up the fire. As they ate and got warm, the kids explained about why they were in the mountains and why Horniomon was with them. They told Ninjamon about the battle with Talomon and how Horniomon had Digivolved. Last, they explained that they needed Ninjamon to come with them, if he would.
"I will gladly come with you." Ninjamon said immediately. "And, because I see your friend Matt's Crest glowing, I take it that I am his partner." His eyes sparkled, and it seemed that he was smiling. "Tomorrow we can start out to the next mountain." He turned to Horniomon. "I do believe we will find Clovenmon around there, won't we?" Horniomon nodded.
"Yes. Tomorrow we shall look." He turned to the kids. "Sleep, you will need your rest." The kids settled down into blankets to sleep. After everyone was asleep, Matt got up and went outside. He sat in the mouth of the cave and pulled out his harmonica. He began to play a tune his dad had taught him when he was younger. Closing his eyes, he played into the night.
Someone touched his arm and he dropped his harmonica, startled. He turned and there, sitting there beside him, was Ninjamon. Ninjamon picked up the harmonica and looked at it.
"What is this?" He questioned.
"It's called a harmonica. You can play music on it. My dad gave it to me." Matt said.
"Play it." Ninjamon said. Matt took the harmonica and resumed playing the song he had been. When he finished, Ninjamon's eyes were sparkling like they did when he smiled.
"You play very well." He said.
"Thank you." Matt said, smiling. His smiled faded a little. "Did you know him?"
"Who?" Ninjamon asked.
"Weregarurumon."
"Yes." Ninjamon replied softly. "He and the others always talked about you." Matt smiled. Looking up at the stars, he picked out some of his favorite constellations.
"Do you like stargazing?" Ninjamon asked.
"A little." Matt replied.
"The stars can tell many things. The centaurs at Rainbow Valley are always foretelling prophecies from the stars." Ninjamon said. Matt nodded.
"Do you know about Gemini?" Matt said, pointing to the constellation of Castor and Pollux in the sky.
"I do indeed know the secret of Gemini." Ninjamon said. "Though few do."
"I wonder if we shall see them here again." Matt said.
"Make no mistake, Matt." Ninjamon said, rising. "The daughters of Arthur and Guardian Angels of all that is good will return." He extended a human hand to Matt and pulled him to his feet. "Come now, Matt, we must go to bed." He and Matt went back into the Glacier Cave and went to sleep.
The next morning, they began to climb the third mountain. They stopped to rest in a large field.
"Well team," Tai said, "We've found two of our new companions, and will soon be onto the third."
"Your point?" Matt asked, yawning.
"Well," Tai paused, "It means we're one…or two…steps closer to-"
"Quiet." Ninjamon interrupted. "I hear something." Everyone fell silent. If they listened closely, an angry snorting could be heard. It sounded like a bull. Ninjamon and the other three Digimon moved in front of the kids.
Suddenly, a sound of pounding hooves was heard and a creature that looked like a minitaur galloped into the clearing.
"Minitaurmon." Ninjamon said softly.
"Hold your distance." Horniomon called to the charging bull-like creature.
"I will not." The low, hissing voice said. "Entianmon has given me orders." He stood where he was, aimed, and charged at them.
"Ninja Swords!" Ninjamon said, throwing his swords at Minitaurmon.
"Lightening Charge!" Minitaurmon countered. Knocking the swords away. He gathered more speed and charged again. Just as he had nearly run into them, another voice called out.
"Psychic Blast!" Minitaurmon fell back. Joe's Crest began to glow. A creature appeared in front of them. He turned to face them.
"Ah, Clovenmon." Horniomon said. Clovenmon smiled. The Digimon was as large as a tiger, though a tan color. His tail was three times' the size of a tiger's, curling over his back. Two brown horns emerged from his head.
"Hello, all." He said, his voice ringing in the air. His eyes met Joe's. "I know of your quest, and your friends. Allow me to join you, after we defeat Minitaurmon." He smiled, turning back with the others to Minitaurmon. He and Ninjamon charged at Minitaurmon. Minitaurmon knocked them back with his attack.
"No, Ninjamon!" Matt shouted, his Crest beginning to glow.
"Clovenmon, get up!" Joe called, his Crest also glowing.
Ninjamon struggled to his feet, glowing, as did Clovenmon.
"Ninjamon Digivolve to…Martialmon!" Martialmon was slightly bigger than Ninjamon. Except his clothes were white and a black belt was tied around his waist. His eyes, hands, and feet were all that were showing. Also, two long bamboo sticks replaced the swords.
"Clovenmon Digivolve to…Bronclovemon!" Bronclovemon was about ¾ the size of Zudomon. He was erected onto hind legs and white pant-like things covered his legs. The curled horns on his head remained, and he turned a golden color of bronze.
"Alright!" Joe and Matt called. Bronclovemon and Martialmon charged once again at Minitaurmon.
"Bamboo Blade!" Cried Martialmon.
"Bronze Missiles!" Cried Bronclovemon.
The attacks crashed into Minitaurmon, and he disappeared. Martialmon and Bronclovemon reverted back to their Champion forms, Ninjamon and Clovenmon and ran to the others.
"Awesome job, Clovenmon." Joe said.
"Nice work, Ninjamon." Matt said. The two Digimon nodded. Clovenmon passed Joe a gray gem.
"Looks like we've found three new partners, gang!" Tai said triumphantly.
"True, Tai," Sora said, "But remember, we still have to find over half of the rest of them."
"Hey, I'm trying to be optimistic. Not a downer." Tai replied.
"We should try to reach the top of this mountain by nightfall, even though it is only noon." Clovenmon said.
"Why?" Joe asked, "It would be easier to just skip going all the way over the top and go around from where we are."
"True," Clovenmon said, "But we believe that Tiransmon is dwelling at the very top of this mountain. We must pass by there to see." The kids looked slightly surprised, the same question on each of their faces.
"Do you think Tiransmon is one of our new partners?" Izzy asked.
"He was one of our companions." Ninjamon said.
"Let's go." Tai said.
So they started out, hiking up all the time. The day went by quickly. Mimi constantly complaining about how she couldn't hike up all these rocks and cliffs. When they stopped to set up camp for the night, which was fairly close to the top, it was still light out. An hour or two of light remained.
"I'm going to explore a bit." Izzy told the rest of the group. "I want to see what sort of things are around here. Maybe I can find out where Tiransmon is."
"Be careful." Tai said, and Izzy went off.
He was walking around; looking at what sort of vegetation there was, when he stumbled onto a cave.
"Curious," He said softly. He decided to explore. Maybe Tiransmon was in there. He entered the cave, making enough noise so as not to frighten anyone or anything that might be in there. The cave itself did not stretch very far back. Kabuterimon could have fit in it.
Since he didn't see anything back in the cave, he turned to leave. But the form of a large bird-like creature blocked the entranceway to the cave.
"Who has trespassed on my cave?" Boomed a voice. "Another enemy to disturb me?"
"Tiransmon," Izzy said softly to himself. The creature was a dark green color with feathers like a bird. Its wings were scaly like a dragon's, though. It was about the size of Kabuterimon. Izzy had to dodge as Tiransmon let a spurt of flame at him.
"Hey, I'm not here to trespass." Izzy said. Tiransmon did not answer for a moment.
"Why are you here? Step into the light." Tiransmon said. Izzy stepped closer to the dragon/bird Digimon.
"I was looking around for something to eat, and I was looking for you." Izzy explained.
"Why for me?" Tiransmon demanded.
Izzy explained out about his group and how they were looking for the new partners.
"I see." Tiransmon said after a moment.
"Will you join us?" Izzy asked, showing Tiransmon his Crest, which was glowing.
"When I came here, I promised to guard this mountain and its dwellers against evil. I will come to you in the morning and tell you what I have decided." Tiransmon said. "I realize that I am your partner, Izzy, but I must consider my promise."
"Of course." Izzy said. "That is perfectly reasonable. Thank you for letting me talk with you instead of cooking me." Tiransmon managed a smile.
"Take this." He said, and he gave Izzy a gem. Like the ones the others had.
Izzy nodded and turned and went back to the group, telling them about Tiransmon. After a while, they went to sleep.
The next morning, they waited for Tiransmon before leaving. He turned up around noon.
"Sorry I am late." He apologized. "I couldn't find breakfast."
"Hello, Tiransmon." Horniomon said, standing by the other two new Digimon. "It has been a while." Tiransmon nodded a greeting to them.
"I have decided." Tiransmon said, glancing at Izzy.
"Yes?" Izzy said.
"I must stay. I cannot journey with you. My promise will be kept." Izzy looked away. Horniomon, Ninjamon, and Clovenmon just stared at Tiransmon.
"Consider your decision, my friend." Ninjamon said softly. Tiransmon did not answer. He only spread his wings and flew back to the top of the mountain.
"Well," Tai said after a long pause, "I guess we have to keep going."
"Between the two mountains is where we will find the next one." Clovenmon said.
The search for the last four Digimon took five days. Izzy was upset about Tiransmon, but tried not to show it.
They found Sora's partner next, in a valley between two mountains. When a group of Garbagemon attacked, Horsoiamon, Sora's new partner, showed up and attacked them. She got knocked out of the battle and Sora's love for Horsoiamon caused Horsoiamon to Digivolve to Wingunimon and knock the Garbagemon into next week. Sora also received a gem from Horsoiamon.
Mimi's partner was harder to find. They knew she was in a middle of a forest, but they didn't know where. It was easy to get lost in the forest, so Horsoiamon offered to Digivolve and take Mimi to look for her partner, since Wingunimon could fly. The group agreed, so Horsoiamon Digivolved to take Mimi to look. They flew over the forest for a while, searching for a sign of the new partner.
"Wait, Wingunimon, fly down lower a second. I think I heard something." Mimi said suddenly. The Digimon dipped lower. Mimi heard it again.
"Did you hear that?" She asked the Digimon. Wingunimon nodded. The Digimon flew lower, looked around a moment, and landed. Mimi got off and looked around. Then she spotted someone at the base of a tree. It looked like Lillymon, but bigger. That and rose petals covered the Digimon's body.
"Rosenmon." Wingunimon said softly to Mimi. Rosenmon was sobbing softly. Mimi went beside her and knelt down.
"Rosenmon?" She asked softly. The Digimon started, and looked at her.
"Who are you?" Rosenmon asked, stopping her sobbing.
"I'm Mimi." Mimi replied, her Crest glowing. "What's wrong?" Rosenmon was silent a moment.
"You wouldn't understand." Rosenmon said finally.
"Don't be sure of that." Wingunimon said softly.
"You're here?" Rosenmon said, surprised. She stood. Mimi did as well. "Well, I guess I could tell you." Rosenmon paused again.
"There is a group of Redvegiemon and Vilemon that are always picking on me and torturing me. And they're Ultimate Digimon, so I can't do anything about it." She stopped.
"Well, I can change that." Mimi said softly. She explained out about her and her friends and their quest.
"Well, I would love to come with you." Rosenmon said, smiling.
"With me, you can Digivolve to your Ultimate level and teach those "Vile Veggies" a lesson." Mimi said, changing her usual soft, no-fighting attitude.
As if on cue, a group of Vilemon and Redvegiemon appeared. They snickered at Rosenmon and dived at Mimi.
"Mimi, look out!" Rosenmon shouted, and Mimi's Crest and Digivice began to glow, as did Rosenmon.
"Rosenmon Digivolve to…Dayinianmon!" Dayinianmon was about the size of Lillymon but had bright yellow flowers all over. Wings that seemed to be made of cattail plants sprung from her shoulders. A daisy plant was her weapon. She turned to the group with a new look on her face, and she moved in for the attack.
Entianmon's roars of fury echoed around the castle. The Gizamon and the other servants stilled and were silent.
"What do you mean, they have found six? That they have only two to find? This does not please me." Entianmon said, containing his voice to a deathly whisper. He thought for a moment. "It is time to call an old evil one back to deal with them. Go." The cloak he wore was still in place, but he trembled with fury. Finally, he calmed and moved out of his throne room. Moving down hallways and flights of stairs, he finally reached the door to the dungeon.
Meanwhile, in the dungeon, the Digimon were discussing things as they heard Entianmon's shouts of rage.
"This must be good news for us." Angemon said. "It has been a while, and it sounds like our human friends have found most of their partners."
"They will have trouble saving us, with the maze this castle is." Weregarurumon said. Everyone nodded in silent agreement.
The door to the dungeon slid open. The cloaked figure of Entianmon stood in the doorway.
"Just little information for you." He said sourly. "Your friends have found six partners, and seem to be enjoying it." He smirked. "Oh, and another thing for you to think about: Your friends may start thinking they like their new partners better than their old ones and think about abandoning you. Such ones as their new ones would not be so foolish to be captured so easily." He swept out of the room, the door slamming shut behind him.
The Digimon exchanged looks, and then were silent.
"He is lying." Metalgreymon said. "I do not believe Tai would do such a thing." Seven luminous heads slowly nodded in agreement.
The ten kids and eight Digimon, with Rosenmon added to their number, trekked up the sixth mountain, finally reaching the top. They looked down the opposite side, and let out audible gasps. It was a sheer drop down the other side. Sharp, long rocks poked out at the very bottom.
"How in the world will we get down?" Sora asked.
"We can fly." Clovenmon said. "I can see a flat part down there, about halfway down, that we can rest and stop on."
"All right, let's do it." Tai said.
"Horniomon Digivolve to…Silverhornmon!" Silverhornmon flexed his large wings.
"Ninjamon Digivolve to…Martialmon!" Martialmon was graceful and swift enough that he could carry Matt down that part of the mountain, finding footholds.
"Clovenmon Digivolve to…Bronclovemon!" Bronclovemon's bronze wings seemed to glitter in the sunlight.
"Horsoiamon Digivolve to…Wingunimon!" Wingunimon's horn and wings were nearly the same color and mingled together.
"Rosenmon Digivolve to…Dayinianmon!" Cattail wings strong enough to hold the air so Dayinianmon could fly were amazing.
Tai and Kari clambered onto Silverhornmon's back. Martialmon prepared to carry Matt down the mountain. Joe helped T.K. onto Bronclovemon's back. Wingunimon knelt down so Sora could mount. Dayinianmon held Mimi's hands to fly down. Jenny and Julie got onto Biriamon and Leoparamon's backs.
Together they flew (or in Martialmon's case, climbed,) down the mountain until they reached the spot Bronclovemon had told them about. As the Digimon Dedigivolved, a soft growling could be heard. The Digimon exchanged looks.
"Show yourself." Horniomon said. An indigo wolf-like creature leaped from the shadows. The three things that made it unlike a wolf was that it was much larger than a normal sized wolf, it was a dark blue color, and two saber toothed tiger teeth emerged from its mouth.
"Oh, nothing to worry about." Rosenmon said. "That's Wolfmon, one of our companions when we first came here. He's very kind." As she said this, T.K.'s Crest began to glow.
"Well he isn't looking very kind right now." Tai said. Wolfmon was growling, crouched low to the ground.
"Hey, look!" Mimi said, pointing.
"No way!" Joe said.
"Prodigious, it is!" Izzy said. "It's a Black Gear!" And indeed, a Black Gear, clearly belonging to the long gone, apparently, Devimon, was sticking, barely noticeable, out of Wolfmon's back.
"Before we do anything," Joe cautioned, "Remember that Black Gears make those they control more powerful. So even if Wolfmon is a Champion Digimon, the Black Gear probably makes him more like a very powerful Ultimate Digimon."
"Joe's right, but we have to do something." Tai said. "Digivolve!"
Each of the Digimon Digivolved, but got knocked easily away by Wolfmon, Dedigivolving back to their Champion forms. All but Silverhornmon, Martialmon, and Bronclovemon. They fought on, and suddenly, making contact with Wolfmon, were knocked clear back to their Rookie forms, Trimon, Honormon and Janormon.
"No, get up!" Tai shouted, and he, Matt, and Joe ran to their partners.
"Water, there…" Honormon said pointing to a spring trickling by a couple yards away. Trimon and Janormon nodded. Tai, Matt, and Joe cupped some of the water in their hands and brought it back to their partners. The Digimon drank it, and suddenly, they, their partners Crests and Digivices began to glow.
"Trimon Warp-Digivolve to…Goldspikemon!" The new, Mega Digimon was winged and his body was covered with gold plated spikes. His body was covered with gold armor, and his wings were gold with the Crest of Courage on them.
"Honormon Warp-Digivolve to…Medivalmon!" This Digimon was winged, as well. Armor that seemed to come from medieval times covered his body. Also, this Digimon carried the long swords from his Champion level and the bamboo sticks from his Ultimate level. Now he carried a shorter sword in a scabbard, and a shield at his side.
"Janormon Warp-Digivolve to…Aquaclovemon!" Aquaclovemon was a bit…weird. He had wings, yes, but they were made of fish scales. So he could fly and swim. Two horns sprouted from his head and curled back to an armored back. His tail was very unusual. It was long, and one half had fish scales on it, the other half had fur.
The three Mega Digimon turned to Wolfmon.
"Yeah, go Goldspikemon!" Shouted Tai.
"Medivalmon, teach that wolf a lesson!" Matt called.
"Go get him, Aquaclovemon!" Joe cried.
"Shall we?" Medivalmon said to the other two Mega Digimon.
"Let's do it." Aquaclovemon said.
"Gold Spike Spray!"
"Knight Sword!"
"Water Counter Attack!"
The three attacks flew towards Wolfmon and the Gear. Wolfmon howled in pain as the Gear flew out of his body and disappeared. He collapsed on the ground, and T.K. ran to his side.
"You alright, Wolfmon?" T.K. asked.
"Who…are you?" Wolfmon asked slowly, pushing himself to his feet.
"I'm T.K." He replied. He introduced the others and told Wolfmon about their quest and all. Wolfmon considered it a moment.
"Because you saved me from control from the Black Gear, I will come with you. That, and I wish to help you." Wolfmon said. He gave T.K. a gem like the others had.
"Yeah!" T.K. said happily.
"Seven down, one to go." Tai said.
"Who else must you find?" Wolfmon asked.
"Kari's partner." Matt said.
"Deeranmon." Horniomon said.
"What about Tiransmon?" Izzy asked.
"We will find him, or he will find us, if need be." Ninjamon said.
"Let's go find Kari's partner, and maybe we can head to Entianmon's castle tomorrow." Tai said. So they moved out. Between the eight of them, the Digimon could take their partners over to the next mountain. They hadn't gone far when the sound of softly crunching leaves. They stopped and listened.
A deer-like creature that was clearly female, despite her antlers, leaped from the bushes.
"Deeranmon." Wolfmon said.
"You're finally here." Deeranmon said in a soft voice. "Someone told me that you were coming, so I came to meet you. I know about your quest, and I am coming." Deeranmon turned to Kari and trotted to her side. Nosing her, she smiled. Kari smiled as well. Deeranmon motioned for Kari to take the gem from her forehead.
"Well, shall we keep moving?" Tai asked. Everyone agreed, and they covered ground by going around the mountain. As they came to the bottom of the mountain, night was falling. They stopped to rest on dry ground in a cave.
"Let's set up camp here for the night. It's dry ground and concealed." Tai said. So they settled down in the cave. Kari and Deeranmon went just outside the cave to talk.
"I'm glad you decided to come with us." Kari said. Deeranmon nodded.
"Of course. A Guardian came and told me you were coming. So I came to meet you."
Kari did not talk for a moment. She fingered the gem on the chain around her neck idly. She took it from her neck and looked at it.
"Deeranmon, do you know what these gems are for? Everyone in the group has one from you Digimon. I saw Biriamon and Leoparamon giving Jenny and Julie a gem as well." Kari asked.
"That, you must learn. The gems hold many secrets. You must kind the key to unlock the secrets. It lies within yourself." Deeranmon replied. She started to say something else, but a loud rumble cut her off. It came from not to far away, so Kari and Deeranmon exchanged a look that held the same question.
"Get on." Deeranmon said, lowering herself. Kari clambered onto her back and they set off silently.
A short time after they left to see what it was, Tai came out to check on Kari. When he looked at where she and Deeranmon had been, the space was empty.
"Kari!" He called into the night. There was no answer. He ran back into the cave where everyone else was relaxing around a fire.
"Guys, Kari and Deeranmon are gone!" Tai said. Everyone started up at that.
"They must have gone to see what that rumble was." Wolfmon said.
"Let's go find them." Sora said. They each got onto their Digimon, who trotted or flew out of the cave. The rumble was heard again. They set off in that direction.
Meanwhile, Kari and Deeranmon had reached the clearing where the rumble had come from. Kari got off Deeranmon's back.
"Stay back." Deeranmon warned. An evil laugh sounded and echoed around the field. A figure that the Digi Destined had fought a long, long, time ago appeared, though Kari did not know him.
"Devimon…" Deeranmon hissed. "Careful Kari."
"My brother and the others told me about him, but I never fought him." Kari said.
Devimon advanced, getting closer and closer by the moment, laughing evilly.
"Triple Horn!" Shouted a voice. Devimon fell back, however unharmed.
"Kari!" Shouted Tai. He came up on Horniomon, with the others close behind.
"You've spoiled my fun with this new Digi Destined. Now you will pay." Devimon hissed. "Evil Wing!" The attack flew at Kari and Deeranmon.
"Flame Breath!" Called another voice. Devimon's attack was knocked away. They all looked up. Flying steadily above them was…Tiransmon!
"Tiransmon!" Izzy called. "I thought you had to guard the mountain."
"I went on a vacation." He replied with a chuckle, landing.
"How are we supposed to beat this guy?" Tai asked the group. T.K. leaned over to Kari and said something softly to Kari. She thought about a moment, and then nodded. They turned to the others.
"We might have a way." T.K. said. "But only Kari and I can do it. We'll explain it later if you'll let us."
"T.K., it would put you in that kind of danger." Matt said, simply pointing at Devimon.
"Matt, remember how we first defeated Devimon?" T.K. asked softly. Matt said nothing for a moment, and then, with a small sigh, nodded.
"All right."
"Tai?" Kari said.
"I don't know." Tai said. "You haven't fought him before."
"I know, but I'll have Deeranmon there." Kari said. "And T.K. will be there too."
Tai sighed. "All right, Kari, but be careful."
Kari and T.K. motioned to Deeranmon and Wolfmon, and they trotted towards Devimon.
"Are you sure about this?" Wolfmon asked softly. T.K. nodded firmly.
"You." Devimon said with anger as he saw T.K. "You don't have Angemon to protect you now." T.K. stiffened a moment, and then relaxed as Wolfmon nudged him.
"No, not yet, but I have Wolfmon." T.K. said. His Crest was slowly beginning to glow, as was Wolfmon and his Digivice.
"And you." Devimon turned to Kari. "I had heard about you. And you have lost your partner as well." He laughed evilly again.
"I'll find her and get her back." Kari said. "But for now, I have Deeranmon on my side." Kari's Crest began to glow, as did Deeranmon and her Digivice.
"Look!" Tai said pointing at them. "That must have been what T.K. meant!"
"Wolfmon Digivolve to…Siriusmon!" Siriusmon was larger than Wolfmon. He looked almost the same as Wolfmon. But he was a white color with outspread wings that flashed like starlight. Also – he had points on his body that glowed like there were stars on him.
"Deeranmon Digivolve to…Cheribimon!" Cheribimon looked a little like one of those cherubim from a book called "A Wind In The Door" by Madeline L'Engle. Many different kinds of eyes blinked from a sphere-like body that simply floated in the air. Though Cheribimon only had four pairs of wings.
"Wow." T.K. gasped.
"That's amazing…" Kari said.
The two figures floated before Devimon.
"You face defeat again." Siriusmon said.
"Evil shall never win." Cheribimon said, her many eyes blinking rapidly.
"You must still face the Master of Evil…" Devimon said.
"Take them, I'll get him and meet up with you later." Siriusmon said to Cheribimon. Cheribimon seemed to nod, then turned to the remaining kids and Digimon.
"Look into my eyes." Cheribimon told each of them. They did, and it was as if her eyes suddenly became much larger. Each of them felt a sensation like an electric jolt, and they were in darkness. It was as if they had been taken into Cheribimon herself and were part of her as she disappeared with them from the battle.
"Telekinesis Transport!" They heard, or felt, her say as they disappeared.
"This does not please me." Entianmon thundered. "Is there no one beside myself that has the simple ability to take care of them? Because of your failure, they have found their partners - all of them." His voice was ringing throughout the entire castle.
"Master…" A Gizamon inched forward towards the cloaked figure. "They have all disappeared from the battle with Devimon, except the Digimon Siriusmon. He destroyed Devimon." Entianmon looked like he was swelling in fury.
"Then let them be warned that Entianmon will not be defeated." Entianmon hissed.
In the dungeon, Weregarurumon had his wolf ear pressed against the door, straining to hear news on the children. When Entianmon had stopped shouting, he turned back to the others, waiting anxiously.
"They have found all of their partners, and are close." Weregarurumon said.
All at once, the kids and Digimon felt another sensation like an electric jolt and they were suddenly tumbling on the ground in a tangle of arms and legs. They saw a black castle that seemed to melt in with the night not far away. They were in a strand of woods that ended several yards further. They heard the sound of beating wings and Siriusmon landed in front of them, folding his wings.
"Sorry about the jolt." Cheribimon said softly. "But I had to get you out of there."
"Devimon is as good as gone." Siriusmon said.
"What exactly did you do, Cheribimon?" Izzy asked.
"I pulled you all to me and used telepathy to transport us here."
"Prodigious." Izzy said.
"No kidding." Said a distantly familiar voice. "You finally made it." They all turned. There, standing just a few feet away, were the Guardians. Adrienne, Emily, Nikki, Renee, and Brittany and their winged unicorns were standing looking happy, surprised, and a bit afraid.
"You are on the borderline of Entianmon's boundaries." Emily said softly, and her voice held almost obvious fear.
"When can we go in to get our friends?" Kari asked.
"You must go tonight." Renee said. "Entianmon knows you are on your way, though he doesn't know that you came so far in seconds."
"We can transfer a map of the castle into your computer, Izzy." Brittany said. "It will show each of the rooms, passageways, and everything else in the castle. It will also show enemies approaching. If you sneak in, you shouldn't have a hard time getting to your friends."
"Well, we'd better get ready to go in." Tai said. "But then again, how do we get in?"
"We have created a secret entrance into the castle." Adrienne said. "It is in the wall beside the one that the dungeon is closest to."
Brittany transferred a map like she had said to Izzy's computer. She pointed out the dungeon and the hidden entrance. The dungeon was near the bottom left corner of the castle. The secret entrance was in the wall to the right. Entianmon's throne room was by the left wall, almost above the dungeon, which might be a problem.
"There are security systems and alarms placed in certain places, but the path marked on here avoids all of them." Nikki said.
"All right, this won't be hard, with the map." Izzy said. "Thanks."
"Go." Renee motioned them away. Softly, ten kids and ten Digimon made there way to the hidden passage. Silently, they passed through it and moved on, following Izzy's directions from the map. They soon came up to a solid wall.
"That's it." Izzy said. "The dungeon wall. It's supposed to be two feet thick."
"So they can't here us, obviously." Tai said.
"No, they can't."
"Can we knock it down?" Matt asked.
"I could, but it would make noise. Maybe too much." Clovenmon said.
"I can, as well." Horniomon said.
"Digivolve, and do it!" Joe said.
"Horniomon Digivolve to…Silverhornmon!"
"Clovenmon Digivolve to…Bronclovemon!"
The two together charged the wall. It rumbled slightly and left a few cracks. They charged again. More. They prepared to charge one more time.
The eight Digimon were simply sitting on the cold floor, wondering about when their partners would turn up. Suddenly, the right wall quivered and a rumble was heard.
"That might be them." Garudamon said, and the eight backed against the opposite wall to watch. Another rumble was heard, and several cracks appeared in the wall. A loud, final rumble echoed, and the wall caved in. As the dust cleared, Silverhornmon and Bronclovemon stood up and shook the remains of the wall off. The outlines of ten children and eight other Digimon became clearer, and they rushed forward. The newer partners stood back, along with Jenny and Julie.
Each of the kids ran to their partners and they embraced.
"We were afraid Entianmon was going to simply destroy you." Tai said. "Luckily we found some friends to help us."
"I have lived a long time." Ninjamon said wisely. "And I have never met anything such as luck."
"True," Siriusmon said. "I have not, either. Only fate and fortune."
"Well," Cheribimon broke in, sounding urgent. "We'll need fate favoring us if we're going to get out of here. I am sensing guards running to Entianmon. They heard the wall being knocked down and ran to tell him."
"He will know by now." Rosenmon warned.
"There may be a way to get out." Izzy said. "Brittany told me that Entianmon has no guards in his throne room or the hall that leads to it. He prefers to be alone. And according to this map, the hall leading to his throne room is directly above us. We can go down the hall, through Entianmon's throne room, and out through the balcony or wall."
"One flaw." Tiransmon said quietly. "You think Entianmon will simply stand by and watch us pass through?"
"A diversion." Megakabuterimon said.
"Who, though?" Sora asked. "Entianmon is a level higher than Mega."
"We will do it." Horsoiamon said, gesturing to her and the other seven new partners. The other seven agreed quickly.
"No," Matt said, "Like Sora said, he's higher than Mega! A diversion will be impossible."
"Not if we can help it." Cheribimon said, seeming to smile, blinking her eyes in unison. Silverhornmon, Ninjamon, and Bronclovemon shrank back to their Rookie forms. Exchanging a look, they nodded.
"Trimon Warp-Digivolve to…Goldspikemon!"
"Honormon Warp-Digivolve to…Medivalmon!"
"Janormon Warp-Digivolve to…Aquaclovemon!"
The three Mega Digimon waited patiently as the three remaining Champion Digimon exchanged a look.
"Tiransmon Digivolve to…Dragonmon!" Dragonmon looked like a full- grown dragon. Two horns curled from his head, pointing forward. The ever- burning flame on the end of his tail flared up.
"Horsoiamon Digivolve to…Wingunimon!"
"Rosenmon Digivolve to…Dayinianmon!"
Together, the new and old Digimon partners broke through the ceiling, taking their human friends up through the hole in the ceiling as it collapsed.
"Okay," Goldspikemon said. "We will go in. When you hear the battle, come through." They nodded. The three Mega Digimon and the five Ultimate Digimon slipped down the hall and charged into the room. It was just seconds before they heard the roars of anger from the battle. The ten Ultimate Digimon picked up their human friends and flew into the room. Goldspikemon, Medivalmon, Aquaclovemon, Siriusmon, and Cheribimon were fighting Entianmon. The others were fending off guards. Goldspikemon made a quick motion towards the balcony. The older partners, with great reluctance, flew out through the balcony and to the forest – and safety.
"Look!" Matt said, pointing, "Oh, no…" There came a crash and the three Mega Digimon came flying backwards through a wall near the balcony. There was another, louder explosion and the Ultimate Digimon came flying through the opposite wall of the balcony. They all landed hard near them and Dedigivolved back to their Rookie forms.
"Oh, no!" T.K. shouted. The Rookies struggled to their feet and stumbled of flew over to them.
"Sorry, Tai," Trimon said. "Entianmon is too strong."
"We'll try." Angewomon said, gesturing to the other nine Ultimate Digimon.
"No, you'll just get hurt." Kari protested.
"What do we do?" Matt asked. "We can't just stand around and watch."
Sora turned to Carianmon, Horsoiamon's Rookie form.
"Do you think you can Warp-Digivolve?" Sora asked quietly, keeping their conversation as private as possible.
"I don't know." Carianmon replied. "But I don't think even all of us as Mega Digimon could put a dent in Entianmon."
"I know." Sora said. "But I'm wondering about what one of the Rider's told me alone. She told me that our new partners would have the ability to defeat Entianmon by Digivolving to a level as high as he is. She told me that before that could happen, you have to try to beat him, even if you're at a Mega level. I think that's essential to find the key to your Digivolving to the level higher than Mega – the Mystical level."
"You really think so?" Carianmon asked, cocking her head.
"Well, you won't know if you don't try." Sora said, smiling. "Hey, guys!" She called to the other kids and told them about her plan.
"Good idea." Tai said. "Besides, maybe Entianmon will make a mistake and you guys can get him as Mega Digimon."
"Yeah, right," Izzy said, "But let's try it. You up to it, guys?" He said to the Digimon.
"Yep." They said in unison.
"Trimon Warp-Digivolve to…Goldspikemon!"
"Honormon Warp-Digivolve to…Medivalmon!"
"Janormon Warp-Digivolve to…Aquaclovemon!"
"Flamemon Warp-Digivolve to…Golddragonmon!" Golddragonmon was slightly smaller than Dragonmon, with a pair of gold-armored wings. His body was covered in gold armor as well, and his wings, along with his tail, were outlined in ever-burning fire.
"Carianmon Warp-Digivolve to…Kinunimon!" Kinunimon had outspread wings that were made of pure silver, though there were feathers. Her mane and tail carried a silver light that sparkled. Her horn was spiraled in silver, as well.
"Petamon Warp-Digivolve to…Violetmon!" Violetmon had a pair of wings from each of her stages, and a new pair that were made from violet petals. Her body seemed to be covered in a single violet, and she held a purple flower in her hand.
"Legdmon Warp-Digivolve to…Celestimon!" Celestimon seemed to be a single point of bright blue light. He could assume any form he wished, though usually a human-like creature with wings that glowed with a bright blue light. He also usually appeared as Sirius or Pegasus, two constellations in the night sky.
"Methmon Warp-Digivolve to…Celestiamon!" Celestiamon looked like Celestimon, though she appeared as a bright purple light, not a blue one and the form she usually used was with feminine features – a human-like creature with wings that glowed with a purple light. She also could assume the forms of the Eagle and the Unicorn in the night sky. Celestimon and Celestiamon were alike and unlike a lot like Angemon and Angewomon were.
"All right!" All the kids cried.
"Let's go." Goldspikemon said.
"We're coming too." Metalgreymon said, gesturing to the other nine Ultimate Digimon.
The eight Mega Digimon and the ten Ultimate Digimon took to the air or ran along the ground. The kids stood anxiously at the edge of the forest to watch the outcome and battle. They watched as their partners stood or floated just in front of the castle, an obvious challenge.
"Ready for more?" Hissed the evil voice from inside the castle. "I thought you'd had enough." A cloaked form broke through the castle wall and sped through the air. Entianmon stopped abruptly and removed his cloak. He was armored in gold metal, and two wings looked as sharp as double-edged swords.
"Give him the full Digimon attack!" Cried Tai, he and the others were standing at the edge of the woods, watching.
"Gold Spike Spray!" Goldspikemon cried.
"Knight Sword!" Medivalmon called.
"Water Counter Attack!" Aquaclovemon put in.
"Fire Whip!" Golddragonmon cried next.
"Silver Magna!" Kinunimon.
"Violet Pummel!" Violetmon.
"Pegasus Wing!" Celestimon.
"Eagle Talons!" Celestiamon.
"Giga Blaster!" Metalgreymon.
"Garuru Kick!" Weregarurumon.
"Vulcan's Hammer!" Zudomon.
"Horn Buster!" Megakabuterimon.
"Wing Blade!" Garudamon.
"Flower Cannon!" Lillymon.
"Gate of Destiny!" Magnaangemon.
"Celestial Arrow!" Angewomon.
"Fiery Ice Beam!" Sleriamon.
"Fire Stripes!" Bengamon.
All of these attacks went flying towards Entianmon. He raised his hands in either direction. The attacks all bounced harmlessly off. The battle went on like this for a while. Entianmon would not prevail. Suddenly, instead of blocking attacks, he released one of his own.
"Mystic Claw!" He cried. His attack, like a wave of darkness, pushed back all of the Digimon. They all dropped to the ground.
"Oh, no!" Each of the children cried in unison. Then, suddenly, their Crests began to glow, and the gems beside them glowed in the same way. The Crests and Gems rose and hovered in the air.
"Have Courage!" Tai shouted.
"Combine your Friendship!" Matt called.
"Be Reliable!" Joe cried.
"Use your Knowledge!" Izzy.
"Let your Love glow!" Sora.
"Have Sincerity!" Mimi.
"Have Hope to win!" T.K.
"Let your Light shine!" Kari.
All at once, the new Digimon partners began to glow.
"Goldspikemon Gem-Digivolve to…Couragemon!"
"Medivalmon Gem-Digivolve to…Friendshipmon!"
"Aquaclovemon Gem-Digivolve to…Reliabilitymon!"
"Golddragonmon Gem-Digivolve to…Knowledgemon!"
"Kinunimon Gem-Digivolve to…Lovemon!"
"Violetmon Gem-Digivolve to…Sinceritymon!"
"Celestimon Gem-Digivolve to…Hopemon!
"Celestiamon Gem-Digivolve to…Lightmon!"
Each of these new Digimon that had somehow managed to Digivolve to a higher level than Mega, appeared only as various colored beings of light. They each assumed a form that glowed and seemed fuzzy around the edges. Couragemon looked a little like Goldspikemon and a little like Metalgreymon. Friendshipmon looked a little like Medivalmon and a little like Weregarurumon. And so on and so forth for the rest of them.
"No!" Cried Entianmon. "It's not possible! I will not be defeated!"
"Not if we have anything to say about it." Said the new Digimon partners in unison. The Ultimate Digimon had shrunk back a little, whether out of fear or respect or both, from the Mystical Digimon. The Mystical Digimon turned to them and the children, who were watching with awe.
"Look!" Tai said. He held up his amber-orange gem. It was glowing brightly.
"That must be what made them Digivolve!" Sora said. They fell silent and watched the Digimon. Couragemon had reached out his hand to Metalgreymon.
"Take my hand." Couragemon said. Metalgreymon retaliated by reaching out his own claw and taking Couragemon's. As he did, they both glowed brightly and somehow formed into one being. It was still Couragemon, but Metalgreymon seemed to be in him too. The other Mystical Digimon did the same to the Ultimate Digimon. The same happened to each of them. Now, eight Mystical Level Digimon and two Mega Digimon, Griffomon and Sabeleoparamon, the Mega forms of Rianmon and Keilemon, stood in front of Entianmon.
"They must have been very desperate and at last resort to have sent you." Entianmon said with a snarl.
"So what if we were?" Tai called out.
"I will not be defeated." Entianmon said. "Even if I must face eight Digimon the same level as myself." At a snarl from Griffomon and Sabeleoparamon, he added with a sneer: "And two puny Mega level Digimon." Griffomon and Sabeleoparamon flew together at Entianmon.
"No, don't!" Jenny called. They both peeled away at the moment Entianmon countered their attack with blasts of fire. Scorched, but all right, the two landed next to Jenny and Julie.
"All right," Matt called to the Mystical Digimon, "Go in for the attack!" The Mystical Digimon lined up and flew or leaped forward. They attacked in a final, devastating blow to Entianmon, who screamed in rage as he disappeared.
The Mystical Digimon turned back to the children, who were gaping in surprise, and dropped to the ground. The Ultimate Digimon were separated from the Mystical Digimon, and the Mystical Digimon shrank back into their Ultimate forms. The kids ran up to each of their partners.
"Are you all right?" Kari asked Angewomon and Cheribimon. They both nodded.
"You did very well." Said a quiet familiar voice. They all turned. Emily, Renee, Brittany, Adrienne, and Nikki stood there, watching them with smiles.
"Okay, so we defeated Entianmon and all of our Digimon except for Sleriamon and Bengamon. Now can we take a vacation? In the Digital World?" Tai said bluntly. The Guardians chuckled.
"For a while, yes. But a few more quests await you. All more challenging than the one you just accomplished." Renee said. "A new quest will take place soon, but not until the Girl of the Mountain appears. Ancient prophecies that we look to for reference foretell that she will appear and you must overcome obstacles to find her."
"That is not for a while, though." Emily put in. "You can relax until we call you."
"What, do you have cell phones to call us on?" Joe tried at a joke. He sighed as no one laughed, but only stared at him, but everyone cracked up at the look on Joe's face.
"Actually, we don't have cell phones to use." Brittany said with a smile. "But when you hear the music that sound a little like a flute or a clarinet, go to the source. It plays a song at noon and midnight. It is the same song, and you will know it most surely when you hear it."
"We won't be able to help you after this until you find the Girl. For now, relax, and listen for her music." Renee said finally. She and the other Guardians turned their winged unicorns, and flew away into the sunset.
"Well, a little rest, then our quest, then." Sora said. They turned to the castle of Entianmon. It was collapsing. As soon as all that was left of it was rubble, it began to rain. It was a warm rain, and the drops of water seemed to whisper of a new beginning, a dawn of good again. The Digi Destined and their Digimon turned and walked through the rain, and welcomed it as they found shelter and rested, the gentle lull of water in their ears, and they relaxed, taking a break before their quest for the Girl of the Mountain.
What is this quest and what will it be like? Find out in the next story of the Guardian Angel Sequence called "Mystery Encounter".
2 The End of Many Secrets