Disclaimer:
Toei and Bandai own Digimon. Bandai owns Digimon World 2.
Guard Tamer: Blight of GAIA
by: RB3
Chapter 5: Nightmare of the Apocalypse
The next day, the merry chirping of birds awakened Akira. The sun was shining brightly, and its light blinded the still sleepy Akira. He rubbed his eyes and gazed outside of the window. Judging by the light outside, he had overslept again. Akira's dormitory overlooked a park where many people gathered for recreation. An Agumon sauntered down the street, humming a cheerful tune. As much as he liked to take in the sights, Akira had more important things to do today. Akira found a recorded message from Darkfryer.
"I'll be at the cafeteria for breakfast if you need me," said the message.
Akira scrolled to the next message. It was from Lillith, another of his teammates.
"Come down to the lobby, I need to talk you, ta-ta!" asked Lillith in her most flirtatious voice.
Akira took his keys and left his room. He walked down a long hallway lined with doors to other dorms. He held on to the banister as he slowly descended the staircase to a foyer. A few Guard Tamers were at the counter signing in with reception. He walked out the door and stopped to adjust his bandanna. He suddenly felt two arms wrap around his body.
From the sensations of the hug, the person who was holding him was definitely female. She was also very amorous as well. Akira was very embarrassed by what was happening to him. Akira knew it could only be "her"...
"Well helloooo, handsome!" said the woman flirtatiously.
Akira could a beautiful female face looking over his shoulder. She had pale grey skin and flowing white hair. Her eyes were as red as blood. Akira could see a hint of fangs between the woman's lips as she smiled. Akira recognized who it was; it was Lillith in her Lady Devimon form.
Akira blushed. "Ummm, hi Lillith!"
Lillith tightened her grip slightly and nuzzled against Akira's shoulder. "We're still up for some training after lunch?"
"Yeah... Want to join us for lunch? "
"No, I already ate. Well, see ya later honey!"
Lillith floated away with a big smile on her face. Lillith was a Digimon who simply loved to cuddle and make flirtatious remarks to Akira. He was always embarrassed by Lillith's forwardness and blushed whenever she put the moves on him. In a way, Akira actually liked Lillith's "attention" towards him. Her Lady Devimon form was quite beautiful, even if it was a dark beauty...
Akira continued on his way to the cafeteria. The cafeteria was bustling with hungry Guard Tamers. Akira couldn't make out any distinct sounds with all the chatter. Dozens of Guard Tamers were already there, enjoying the meals prepared by the culinary staff. Akira found his partner seated near the serving area. Darkfryer, now in his Dark Lizamon form, was happily wolfing down a large, juicy steak. In between bites he would either take a sip from his milkshake or take a bite out of his bread.
"Hiya, Darkfryer!" greeted Akira.
"Oh hi, Akira! Go get your meal, I saved you a seat."
Akira ordered a burger, fries and a milkshake for his lunch. He returned to his seat and proceeded to wolf down his delicious meal. Akira was stuffed and felt bloated after such a filling meal. They decided to walk off the meal and then train at the domains. It was common practice amongst Guard Tamers to fight the hostile Digimon of the domains to sharpen their skills.
After lunch, Akira and his Digimon made their way to Tera Domain in Akira's Digibeetle. Domains were large pocket dimensions filled with hostile Digimon of all kinds. Fortunately, it was impossible for the Digimon to leave unless in the company of a Tamer. Its interior was nothing more than a set of gigantic, arena like rooms connected by tunnels. There were treasures here to plunder, but Digimon often guarded them.
The domains were a leftover from the Blood Knights' attack on Digital City. They were used as breeding grounds for Digimon that were far more aggressive than normal. They were also used as hidden bases for Blood Knight operations. Akira fondly remembered his final training mission before becoming a Guard Tamer. It was under the guidance of Zudokorn, his teacher.
**************************************
Akira and Zudokorn's Digibeetle materialized inside the vast hallways of Boot Domain. It was large, but relatively uncomplicated and good for beginning Guard Tamers. Akira drove along with Zudokorn manning the guns. Whenever a hostile Digimon attacked, Akira sent Zudokorn's Ultimates to subdue their foes. Zudokorn brought with him a Lillymon, Mega Seadramon, and Triceramon. Their names were Naomi, Akagi, and Dinogon respectively.
Akira soon encountered a difference in the floor. The floor was made up of blue tiles instead of the usual bricks. "The floor is different here..." he remarked.
"How observant of you, Akira," responded Zudokorn.
Zudokorn proceeded to give a lesson about Digimon's elemental specialties. The blue floor represented a water specialty. Any Digimon of the water specialty, like Mega Seadramon, would receive combat advantages fighting on the blue tiles. Other advantages included fire, nature, darkness, and machine. After the brief lesson, Akira soon found the target of his mission, Leomon.
Leomon taunted them but Akira was unmoved. A fight burst out between Leomon and his flunkies, Toy Agumon, and Veedramon. Toy Agumon resembled an Agumon made out of Lego blocks of different colours. Veedramon was a fearsome, biped, blue dragon with a pair of magnificent white wings. Naomi, Akagi, and Dinogon emerged from the Digibeetles data banks for battle. Since they were Ultimates, Akira's Digimon had a great advantage over their foes. Naomi, the fastest, opened with a Flower Cannon. The ball of Nature's energy collided with Leomon's chest and toppled the mighty lion-man.
He was angered and retaliated. "Fist of the Beast King!"
A flaming Leomon head made of energy erupted from Leomon's fist. Lillymon also took her attack full force in the chest as Leomon did. The Fist of the Beast King burned as it collided with her body. Fortunately, her training and higher Digivolutionary level allowed her to withstand more punishment. Leomon was indeed a mighty Champion and was a powerful foe in battle.
Dinogon was steamrolling Toy Agumon with his superior power. Toy Agumon was a mere Rookie against an Ultimate. Though he stood no chance, Toy Agumon did not give up. He launched a Toy Flame that just went "POOF!" upon contact with Dinogon's hard carapace. Dinogon overwhelmed his foe with a charging Tri Horn Attack. The Rookie was overwhelmed with but a single attack and fainted.
For Veedramon, things were a little tougher for Akagi. Veedramon was a Champion and closer in power to the Ultimate Akagi than Toy Agumon would be. Veedramon took the initiative with a well-aimed V Breath Arrow. The V-shaped energy wave struck Akagi right in the head and it bounced back as though it was shot out of a cannon.
Akagi was somewhat dazed but recovered fairly quickly. The blast had caused no lasting injuries to the Mega Seadramon. His sturdy Chrome Digizoid helmet absorbed the brunt of the force of the attack. Now it was Akagi's turn to dish some pain. A single, powerful bolt of lightning surged from his lightning bolt-shaped horn. The Thunder Javelin's electricity coursed painfully through Veedramon's body before he gave up and collapsed.
Naomi finished off her attack on Leomon. With a final Flower Cannon, Leomon was knocked unconscious by its concussive force. The Digimon celebrated their victory over the leaders of Boot Domain. Before moving to the exit, Naomi channelled the powers of nature into herself and her allies. A gentle, soothing, green glow engulfed the Digimon. They felt refreshed and their wounds were healed instantly.
Zudokorn was pleased. "Well done, Akira! I know you'll be a great Guard Tamer soon."
"Thanks, Mr. Zudokorn! I will give all that I've got to defend Digital City."
They made their way to the exit and returned to Digital City. Zudokorn presented a Tamer license and personal Digibeetle to Akira. Zudokorn told Akira that all that remained was for him to join one of the Guard Teams. As Zudokorn left, Akira was left with a sense of accomplishment and pride.
**************************************
Akira's thoughts returned to his training. Akira's Digibeetle turned a corner and entered an empty room. Akira spotted a crate and decided to check its contents. For safety, Akira beamed his Digimon out of memory to act as defence. The crate contained a thousand Bits, the currency of Digital City. Akira was thankful that the domains always restocked themselves. Engineers created the items used in Digital City by manipulating Bits like building blocks.
This meant that Bits left the economy very rapidly. Darkfryer narrowly dodged the Primal Orb that was thrown at him. Akira swivelled his sensors to face his opponent, a Makuramon. Akira followed the Makuramon's movement as he dropped down from the ceiling. Akira fired on the monkey full-auto with his Digibeetle cannon, but Makuramon was too quick.
He jumped into the air and bounded off the Digibeetles top with the clanging of metal. Darkfryer attacked with a cone of Dread Fire and burnt Makuramon's leg. Makuramon was angered by that attack and threw another Primal Orb at his assailant. Darkfryer blocked the attack, but was bowled over by sheer force. Since he took very few injuries from the orb, Darkfryer quickly got on his feet.
Akira fired a few rounds of energy at Makuramon's back. Makuramon was hit and stunned by the pain of the shots. Lillith pounced on the stunned Makuramon with a Lightning Paw attack. Akira could see three dark claw marks as she clawed straight through Makuramon's body. Makuramon was shocked as he burst into bits of data. Akira cheered his Digimon's victory over the Makuramon.
**************************************
Sheena gazed on a Digiegg with pride. Any moment the egg would hatch and a new Digimon would be born. A crack formed on the egg and then another and another until finally the Digimon emerged. It looked like a small pink ghost. Sheena hugged the little Motimon and doted over him. She fed the little Digimon some specially prepared food to help him grow up and Digivolve strong. The Motimon gobbled the food down contently.
The Digimon veterinarians thanked Sheena for her assistance in tending to the Digieggs. Sheena called it a day and went to the club to see Debbie's Palmon perform. That Palmon was one of Debbie's favourite Digimon and Debbie encouraged her to be a dancer. Bertran and Joy Joy were already there with their Digimon; Demi Devimon and Gatomon. Sheena took a seat near her two friends and patiently waited for the show to begin.
Palmon performed a concert typical of those put on by pop stars. The lights flashed as Palmon danced about with energy and vigour. Bertran and Joy Joy moved their bodies to the beat of Palmon's music. Her performance ended with the chaotic jumble of clapping and cheering from the audience. Backstage, Debbie was congratulating her Palmon for a performance well done.
"How was I Debbie?" asked Debbie's Palmon with excitement.
"You were splendid, Palmon! The crowd was really into it, and even I got lost in the excitement."
"Thanks, its means so much! I know I'm going to be a star!"
"You were beautiful!" began Joy Joy.
"You certainly have talent. You'll go far!" added Bertran.
The Guard Tamers turned in for the day. They had Guard Tamer duties tomorrow and would need to be well rested. Debbie and Palmon entered their dorm room. A Wizardmon and Deramon were already there and watching TV. They were laughing at the slapstick comedy on the TV. Their favourite show was on, a show that they would not miss for anything.
"Hey guys, lets eat dinner!"
The Digimon followed Debbie to the cafeteria. They ordered the special of the day, which was spaghetti and meatballs. They wolfed their meal down and returned to the dorm. In her washroom, Debbie gazed at herself in the mirror. She brushed her long golden locks of hair and changed into a nightgown. Debbie was fast asleep soon after that. That night, Debbie had a most unusual dream.
**************************************
Debbie was walking through a street of an American city. The city was filled with the bustle of people commuting to various work places in the city. All around were the sounds of car engines running, and the blowing of the wind. It was a warm, sunny day and the weather was beautiful. It was a typical ordinary day.
The sun was gradually covered by a great, unnatural darkness. The city was cloaked in darkness as the sun was eclipsed. Soon, hundreds of thousands of sparks of light shot from the darkness covering the sun. The sparks grew larger and larger as they flew to the Earth. Upon entry to the atmosphere, the objects were identified to be missiles!
One of the missiles went towards the city with people screaming in terror as they fled the impact zone. However, the missile never hit the ground, exploding in the skies above instead. A gigantic green cloud of noxious vapours sprayed all over the city. In the first few seconds of exposure, nothing happened. However, that soon changed...
Pandemonium broke out all over the city as the vapours infected people. Green mold-like growths appeared on their otherwise healthy skin. Those infected had their flesh decayed and withered away. It was as if their skin was mummified and eaten away by an animal. When the gas cleared, nothing but decrepit corpses littered the streets of a once populous city. All around the world this scene repeated itself again and again.
The vapours cleared and a new horror began. Creatures of all shapes and sizes ran amok around the world. Debbie recognized them as being Digimon. Those who survived fought valiantly against the Digimon. Their tanks shelled the Digimon repeatedly but the creatures seemed unaffected. The Digimon fought back with ferocious force and wiped out the enemy with ease. The armies of the Real World dropped like flies to the vast might of the Digimon menace.
**************************************
The next morning Debbie woke up drenched in her own sweat. She remembered her dream right down to each and every minute detail. The dream was so real, she began to question whether she had actually experienced the events in her dream. Debbie felt it would help if she confided in her Digimon about the dream. Her Digimon were concerned about the meaning of the dream.
Debbie got ready to face the trials of the day. She got dressed and headed off to the Blue Falcon meeting room to receive her duties for the day. The speaker began by asking if anyone had had any notable dreams last night. Debbie promptly raised her hand and recounted everything that happened in her dream. It seemed that she was not alone... Other Guard Tamers had experienced the same dream.
This got the Falcons to begin talking in their own little huddles about the mysterious dream. Some of the more superstitious Falcons believed it was a vision of the future. The Real World would soon face a terrible crisis that they would have to prevent. This belief became a movement that spread throughout the minds of the Blue Falcons. The speaker called for order to continue her briefing and the Tamers soon returned to listening to the speaker.
The next item she mentioned was the topic of the Blood Knights' leader. He was named Overlord GAIA, but there were no further details about who or what Overlord GAIA was. However, their spies had reported that Overlord GAIA was growing terrified of the return of a being called "the Avenger." The Avenger had fought Overlord GAIA in the past and defeated him. The chiefs were certain that the recent resurgence of Blood Knight activity was in part to prevent the advent of the Avenger.
"Your task is simple; find any clues as the identity of this 'Avenger' and report it to your commanders," ordered the speaker.
**************************************
Akira also had the same dream as Debbie but after the dream, he could hear subtle voices speaking to his mind. Yet, he could not make out what they were saying. In a strange way, they felt familiar, as if he had heard them long ago. It whispered words like a ghost in the wind. A vision of a steel harlequin face flashed in his mind. The face was contorted into an evil grin, as though enjoying the suffering of others. Now the voices came in clearly...
"GAIA, I will destroy you once and for all!"
It seemed to echo from within the deepest reaches of Akira's mind. A vision of the city returned to his mind. The biochemical weapons spread death and destruction again. In this vision, Akira could see the harlequin face gloating over the rotten, fetid bodies of his victims. He was left with a deep-rooted hatred for the harlequin face, a hatred often reserved for a mortal enemy...
**************************************
The next day in the Real World began with a beautiful autumn morning . Leaves of gold and brown adorned the trees. A gentle, cool breeze picked up and the leaves fluttered in the air. A groundskeeper was busy raking the leaves of the school field. As he worked, the leaves piled up into a heap the size of a miniature hill. He shoved the leaves into his trash bag and delivered it to the dump zone. The groundskeeper returned to admire his work. The field was ready for the children's athletic activities.
A few hours pass and the chatter of children grew as they came to school. Mimi Tachikawa was among the children attending school. Before, Mimi had lived in Japan with the other Digidestined. However, after several Digimon attacks in the past, Mimi's mother was adamant about moving away. Mimi's father eventually found a new job in New York, and the Tachikawas have lived there ever since. However, it was a futile gesture. For extra-dimensional creatures such as the Digimon, Digiports could be opened anywhere in the world...
Mimi's morning classes passed by uneventfully and lunchtime came around. Mimi usually ate lunch with Michael and her new friends, the American Digidestined. However, this time, Michael was mysteriously absent.
"Where's Michael? He's usually eats lunch with us..." asked Mimi.
"He had some extra work to do. He'll come soon," replied Lou.
Suddenly, Michael bolted into the lunchroom! "Hey guys! You got to come see this quick!"
"What is it?" asked Maria.
The other American DD followed Michael into a crowd of students. They were gathered around a TV set watching the news. On the screen were pictures of gigantic monsters engaging the massed army of the US.
"Strange monsters have appeared in the US and Japan and are attacking any who stand in their way. Viewers may remember a similar monster incident in Odaiba, Japan three years ago. Sources say that humans were spotted leading these monsters. Several munitions and pharmaceutical production sites have been raided and looted by the enemy. This just in! We have live footage of a press conference in the Pentagon."
The image shifted from the news anchorman to a press conference room in the Pentagon. On the podium was the US Secretary of Defence. Behind him was a navy blue background with a picture of the Pentagon on it. Several reporters were gathered in the room and several camera flashes went off. He began by addressing the audience about the situation on hand. After he was done, he declared a Q&A period for the benefit of the public. Several journalists asked questions of him about the monster situation, but the answers they got raised even more questions.
From the Secretary they learned of the marked organized nature of their attack. In the Odaiba incident, the monsters were not organized at all. This new batch of monsters was also lead by members of an unknown terrorist organization. Casualties for the American army were mounting, because conventional weaponry had little to no effect on the monsters. Other members of the UN were called in to assist the American army but it would take time for them to mobilize.
Knowing the terrorists' choice of targets, there was a great fear of a biochemical weapons. Most of the terrorists' targets were biochemical and pharmaceutical companies and factories. A few were munitions plants that created ammunition and missiles. The Secretary warned of the potential danger of biochemical weaponry being created and used by the enemy. The enemy attacks were surely raids to loot sites for parts for such a weapon.
"Digimon!" exclaimed Mimi.
"We have to do something, we can't let those Digimon harm any more people!" declared Michael.
"I saw several Megas with them, Michael. We wouldn't stand a chance unless we had more Megas..." warned Steve. "The only Mega we have is your Metal Seadramon and he's newly Digivolved too."
"I'm with Michael, we can't just stand here! Many more people will be hurt, we must do something!" added Lou.
Mimi's D-Terminal beeped and she checked her E-mail. Her new message came from Izzy, just the person she needed to talk to! Izzy was asking for help to stop similar Digimon attacks in Japan. He asked Mimi to find Michael and meet the others in the Digital World to discuss strategy. Mimi passed on the message to the others, which gave them a flicker of hope in the face of despair.
"So I finally get to meet Izzy! I heard so much about him from you. I'm eager to meet him."
Mimi and her Digidestined friends received transport to the Digital World courtesy of the D-3's of the younger Digidestined of Japan. The two groups met and Mimi gave both Joe and Izzy a hug. School in Odaiba had been cancelled because of the threat of Digimon encroaching on the city. Their reunion was abruptly cut short by the sounds of explosions ripping through the wind. In the distance, they could see smoke billowing into the air and several tracers being fired into the air.
**************************************
In the Digital World, a fierce battle raged on the deserts of Server. Explosions pounded the sandy landscape of the desert. Guard Tamers and Blood Knights exchanged heavy volleys of fire every second. Missiles and elemental blasts of all kinds lit up the sky. Among this anarchy were two Digimon. One was a Chaos General and aligned with the Blood Knights. The other was Cal, who served the Guard Tamers.
"Needle Squall!" called Cal. The needles impaled themselves into Piedmon's body painfully, making him flinch.
Cal was now in his Pukumon form. He resembled a small, blue, blowfish clad in spiked metal armour. Over his hands were a pair of red gloves and he punched his fists together, as if salivating for battle. He watched Chaos Piedmon as he hovered a few feet off the ground. Other unconscious Guard Tamer Digimon laid strewn on the battlefield; victims of the Chaos General.
"You can't hold out much longer, bozo! Might as well give up..." taunted Cal. "We're going to the Real World to stop your little raid and there's nothing you can do about it!"
Chaos Piedmon growled and took a fighting stance. "Trump Sword!"
Cal dodged the attack but the blades he dodged turned out to be illusions! He frantically looked around for the real swords but it was too late. They dropped onto the top of his bodies like fallen stalactites. Though he was protected there by armour, Cal suffered more pain from the force of the impact rather than the blades themselves.
"Needle Squall!"
"Trump Sword!"
Chaos Piedmon threw several swords at the same moment Cal fired his Needle Squall. The attacks flew through each other and continued straight onwards to their target. Cal gasped in pain as the blades tore into his flesh. At the same time, the Needle Squall had hit Chaos Piedmon all over the body. He screamed in pain as he dive-bombed straight to the ground headfirst.
"GAAAAAAAH!"
Several needles were impaled into Chaos Piedmon's body and data began to leak from the wounds. Cal looked on the falling Chaos Piedmon with satisfaction. The aim of his Needle Squall was true and Chaos Piedmon was turned into a pincushion by that attack. Chaos Piedmon disintegrated into bits of data moments before he hit the ground. Sheena congratulated her Digimon on a well-fought battle.
The Guard Tamers moved quickly to set up a base near the portal they found. Their spies had tipped them off to the Blood Knight raid attempt on the Real World. The Blood Knights were gathering supplies to build an arsenal of biochemical weapons. These new missiles would contain a virus so deadly that it could cause destruction on a scale that rivalled nuclear weapons. The Guard Tamers had captured one of the portals that the Blood Knights used to enter the Real World.
"Ah, how nice to see you again," remarked Debbie.
The Digidestined had approached Debbie to greet her. Debbie, Sheena, Zudokorn and the new Digidestined exchanged introductions with each other. Several new Digibeetles pulled up to the Guard Tamers' new campsite. Akira, Bertran and Joy Joy greeted the new Digidestined allies as Zudokorn called for a strategy meeting.
The massed group of Digidestined entered a large meeting room. The room was already filled with gossiping Guard Tamers awaiting further instructions. To the DD's surprise, many of the Guard Tamers were children like themselves. Younger people had the best chance of bonding with a Digimon and it was their imagination that made this possible. There were adults and teenagers as well; all age groups and generations seemed to be represented amongst the Guard Tamers.
At the very front of the room was a large screen with maps of the Odaiba and New York area. These maps were no doubt used to indicate enemy troop locations and positions. The DD and their Digimon were welcome to stay provided they assist in the battle. They agreed and took seats near the front of the room and patiently awaited the beginning of the briefing.
"All right troops, here's the situation. The Blood Knights are raiding Real World depots for parts to create a new biochemical weapon. Guard Tamer Intel has determined that the attack on Japan is a feint. The real force is raiding America for the supplies. Therefore the bulk of our counter force will go to America while a smaller one goes to Japan. These forces are to drive the Blood Knights out of the Real World. We are authorized to provide aid to the Real World armies and assist them in battle if needed."
Zudokorn fiddled with his controls and several dots appeared on the overhead maps. "These are the locations of the enemy units. As we can see, more units are attacking America than Japan. However, we'll have to go to both places to protect the people. Here is the known makeup of the enemy units."
A list of various types of Digimon appeared on the screen along with the units they belonged to. The list was fairly impressive and spanned Digimon of virtually all types, levels and elements.
"We will now have a brief Q&A session to answer any questions you may have."
Izzy raised his hand and Zudokorn called him out. "Will the UN armies be willing to cooperate?"
"We are well aware of your concern. Our leaders have been in contact with the leaders of your world to inform them of our intentions. We are sure they will co-operate. Are there any more questions? "
After various Guard Tamers asked a few more questions, the assembly was split up according to their destination. The American and older Japanese Digidestined were assigned to go to America, along with Zudokorn, Debbie and Sheena. The others would be sent to Japan to quell the raids there. The Guard Tamers and Digidestined leapt into action.
Toei and Bandai own Digimon. Bandai owns Digimon World 2.
Guard Tamer: Blight of GAIA
by: RB3
Chapter 5: Nightmare of the Apocalypse
The next day, the merry chirping of birds awakened Akira. The sun was shining brightly, and its light blinded the still sleepy Akira. He rubbed his eyes and gazed outside of the window. Judging by the light outside, he had overslept again. Akira's dormitory overlooked a park where many people gathered for recreation. An Agumon sauntered down the street, humming a cheerful tune. As much as he liked to take in the sights, Akira had more important things to do today. Akira found a recorded message from Darkfryer.
"I'll be at the cafeteria for breakfast if you need me," said the message.
Akira scrolled to the next message. It was from Lillith, another of his teammates.
"Come down to the lobby, I need to talk you, ta-ta!" asked Lillith in her most flirtatious voice.
Akira took his keys and left his room. He walked down a long hallway lined with doors to other dorms. He held on to the banister as he slowly descended the staircase to a foyer. A few Guard Tamers were at the counter signing in with reception. He walked out the door and stopped to adjust his bandanna. He suddenly felt two arms wrap around his body.
From the sensations of the hug, the person who was holding him was definitely female. She was also very amorous as well. Akira was very embarrassed by what was happening to him. Akira knew it could only be "her"...
"Well helloooo, handsome!" said the woman flirtatiously.
Akira could a beautiful female face looking over his shoulder. She had pale grey skin and flowing white hair. Her eyes were as red as blood. Akira could see a hint of fangs between the woman's lips as she smiled. Akira recognized who it was; it was Lillith in her Lady Devimon form.
Akira blushed. "Ummm, hi Lillith!"
Lillith tightened her grip slightly and nuzzled against Akira's shoulder. "We're still up for some training after lunch?"
"Yeah... Want to join us for lunch? "
"No, I already ate. Well, see ya later honey!"
Lillith floated away with a big smile on her face. Lillith was a Digimon who simply loved to cuddle and make flirtatious remarks to Akira. He was always embarrassed by Lillith's forwardness and blushed whenever she put the moves on him. In a way, Akira actually liked Lillith's "attention" towards him. Her Lady Devimon form was quite beautiful, even if it was a dark beauty...
Akira continued on his way to the cafeteria. The cafeteria was bustling with hungry Guard Tamers. Akira couldn't make out any distinct sounds with all the chatter. Dozens of Guard Tamers were already there, enjoying the meals prepared by the culinary staff. Akira found his partner seated near the serving area. Darkfryer, now in his Dark Lizamon form, was happily wolfing down a large, juicy steak. In between bites he would either take a sip from his milkshake or take a bite out of his bread.
"Hiya, Darkfryer!" greeted Akira.
"Oh hi, Akira! Go get your meal, I saved you a seat."
Akira ordered a burger, fries and a milkshake for his lunch. He returned to his seat and proceeded to wolf down his delicious meal. Akira was stuffed and felt bloated after such a filling meal. They decided to walk off the meal and then train at the domains. It was common practice amongst Guard Tamers to fight the hostile Digimon of the domains to sharpen their skills.
After lunch, Akira and his Digimon made their way to Tera Domain in Akira's Digibeetle. Domains were large pocket dimensions filled with hostile Digimon of all kinds. Fortunately, it was impossible for the Digimon to leave unless in the company of a Tamer. Its interior was nothing more than a set of gigantic, arena like rooms connected by tunnels. There were treasures here to plunder, but Digimon often guarded them.
The domains were a leftover from the Blood Knights' attack on Digital City. They were used as breeding grounds for Digimon that were far more aggressive than normal. They were also used as hidden bases for Blood Knight operations. Akira fondly remembered his final training mission before becoming a Guard Tamer. It was under the guidance of Zudokorn, his teacher.
**************************************
Akira and Zudokorn's Digibeetle materialized inside the vast hallways of Boot Domain. It was large, but relatively uncomplicated and good for beginning Guard Tamers. Akira drove along with Zudokorn manning the guns. Whenever a hostile Digimon attacked, Akira sent Zudokorn's Ultimates to subdue their foes. Zudokorn brought with him a Lillymon, Mega Seadramon, and Triceramon. Their names were Naomi, Akagi, and Dinogon respectively.
Akira soon encountered a difference in the floor. The floor was made up of blue tiles instead of the usual bricks. "The floor is different here..." he remarked.
"How observant of you, Akira," responded Zudokorn.
Zudokorn proceeded to give a lesson about Digimon's elemental specialties. The blue floor represented a water specialty. Any Digimon of the water specialty, like Mega Seadramon, would receive combat advantages fighting on the blue tiles. Other advantages included fire, nature, darkness, and machine. After the brief lesson, Akira soon found the target of his mission, Leomon.
Leomon taunted them but Akira was unmoved. A fight burst out between Leomon and his flunkies, Toy Agumon, and Veedramon. Toy Agumon resembled an Agumon made out of Lego blocks of different colours. Veedramon was a fearsome, biped, blue dragon with a pair of magnificent white wings. Naomi, Akagi, and Dinogon emerged from the Digibeetles data banks for battle. Since they were Ultimates, Akira's Digimon had a great advantage over their foes. Naomi, the fastest, opened with a Flower Cannon. The ball of Nature's energy collided with Leomon's chest and toppled the mighty lion-man.
He was angered and retaliated. "Fist of the Beast King!"
A flaming Leomon head made of energy erupted from Leomon's fist. Lillymon also took her attack full force in the chest as Leomon did. The Fist of the Beast King burned as it collided with her body. Fortunately, her training and higher Digivolutionary level allowed her to withstand more punishment. Leomon was indeed a mighty Champion and was a powerful foe in battle.
Dinogon was steamrolling Toy Agumon with his superior power. Toy Agumon was a mere Rookie against an Ultimate. Though he stood no chance, Toy Agumon did not give up. He launched a Toy Flame that just went "POOF!" upon contact with Dinogon's hard carapace. Dinogon overwhelmed his foe with a charging Tri Horn Attack. The Rookie was overwhelmed with but a single attack and fainted.
For Veedramon, things were a little tougher for Akagi. Veedramon was a Champion and closer in power to the Ultimate Akagi than Toy Agumon would be. Veedramon took the initiative with a well-aimed V Breath Arrow. The V-shaped energy wave struck Akagi right in the head and it bounced back as though it was shot out of a cannon.
Akagi was somewhat dazed but recovered fairly quickly. The blast had caused no lasting injuries to the Mega Seadramon. His sturdy Chrome Digizoid helmet absorbed the brunt of the force of the attack. Now it was Akagi's turn to dish some pain. A single, powerful bolt of lightning surged from his lightning bolt-shaped horn. The Thunder Javelin's electricity coursed painfully through Veedramon's body before he gave up and collapsed.
Naomi finished off her attack on Leomon. With a final Flower Cannon, Leomon was knocked unconscious by its concussive force. The Digimon celebrated their victory over the leaders of Boot Domain. Before moving to the exit, Naomi channelled the powers of nature into herself and her allies. A gentle, soothing, green glow engulfed the Digimon. They felt refreshed and their wounds were healed instantly.
Zudokorn was pleased. "Well done, Akira! I know you'll be a great Guard Tamer soon."
"Thanks, Mr. Zudokorn! I will give all that I've got to defend Digital City."
They made their way to the exit and returned to Digital City. Zudokorn presented a Tamer license and personal Digibeetle to Akira. Zudokorn told Akira that all that remained was for him to join one of the Guard Teams. As Zudokorn left, Akira was left with a sense of accomplishment and pride.
**************************************
Akira's thoughts returned to his training. Akira's Digibeetle turned a corner and entered an empty room. Akira spotted a crate and decided to check its contents. For safety, Akira beamed his Digimon out of memory to act as defence. The crate contained a thousand Bits, the currency of Digital City. Akira was thankful that the domains always restocked themselves. Engineers created the items used in Digital City by manipulating Bits like building blocks.
This meant that Bits left the economy very rapidly. Darkfryer narrowly dodged the Primal Orb that was thrown at him. Akira swivelled his sensors to face his opponent, a Makuramon. Akira followed the Makuramon's movement as he dropped down from the ceiling. Akira fired on the monkey full-auto with his Digibeetle cannon, but Makuramon was too quick.
He jumped into the air and bounded off the Digibeetles top with the clanging of metal. Darkfryer attacked with a cone of Dread Fire and burnt Makuramon's leg. Makuramon was angered by that attack and threw another Primal Orb at his assailant. Darkfryer blocked the attack, but was bowled over by sheer force. Since he took very few injuries from the orb, Darkfryer quickly got on his feet.
Akira fired a few rounds of energy at Makuramon's back. Makuramon was hit and stunned by the pain of the shots. Lillith pounced on the stunned Makuramon with a Lightning Paw attack. Akira could see three dark claw marks as she clawed straight through Makuramon's body. Makuramon was shocked as he burst into bits of data. Akira cheered his Digimon's victory over the Makuramon.
**************************************
Sheena gazed on a Digiegg with pride. Any moment the egg would hatch and a new Digimon would be born. A crack formed on the egg and then another and another until finally the Digimon emerged. It looked like a small pink ghost. Sheena hugged the little Motimon and doted over him. She fed the little Digimon some specially prepared food to help him grow up and Digivolve strong. The Motimon gobbled the food down contently.
The Digimon veterinarians thanked Sheena for her assistance in tending to the Digieggs. Sheena called it a day and went to the club to see Debbie's Palmon perform. That Palmon was one of Debbie's favourite Digimon and Debbie encouraged her to be a dancer. Bertran and Joy Joy were already there with their Digimon; Demi Devimon and Gatomon. Sheena took a seat near her two friends and patiently waited for the show to begin.
Palmon performed a concert typical of those put on by pop stars. The lights flashed as Palmon danced about with energy and vigour. Bertran and Joy Joy moved their bodies to the beat of Palmon's music. Her performance ended with the chaotic jumble of clapping and cheering from the audience. Backstage, Debbie was congratulating her Palmon for a performance well done.
"How was I Debbie?" asked Debbie's Palmon with excitement.
"You were splendid, Palmon! The crowd was really into it, and even I got lost in the excitement."
"Thanks, its means so much! I know I'm going to be a star!"
"You were beautiful!" began Joy Joy.
"You certainly have talent. You'll go far!" added Bertran.
The Guard Tamers turned in for the day. They had Guard Tamer duties tomorrow and would need to be well rested. Debbie and Palmon entered their dorm room. A Wizardmon and Deramon were already there and watching TV. They were laughing at the slapstick comedy on the TV. Their favourite show was on, a show that they would not miss for anything.
"Hey guys, lets eat dinner!"
The Digimon followed Debbie to the cafeteria. They ordered the special of the day, which was spaghetti and meatballs. They wolfed their meal down and returned to the dorm. In her washroom, Debbie gazed at herself in the mirror. She brushed her long golden locks of hair and changed into a nightgown. Debbie was fast asleep soon after that. That night, Debbie had a most unusual dream.
**************************************
Debbie was walking through a street of an American city. The city was filled with the bustle of people commuting to various work places in the city. All around were the sounds of car engines running, and the blowing of the wind. It was a warm, sunny day and the weather was beautiful. It was a typical ordinary day.
The sun was gradually covered by a great, unnatural darkness. The city was cloaked in darkness as the sun was eclipsed. Soon, hundreds of thousands of sparks of light shot from the darkness covering the sun. The sparks grew larger and larger as they flew to the Earth. Upon entry to the atmosphere, the objects were identified to be missiles!
One of the missiles went towards the city with people screaming in terror as they fled the impact zone. However, the missile never hit the ground, exploding in the skies above instead. A gigantic green cloud of noxious vapours sprayed all over the city. In the first few seconds of exposure, nothing happened. However, that soon changed...
Pandemonium broke out all over the city as the vapours infected people. Green mold-like growths appeared on their otherwise healthy skin. Those infected had their flesh decayed and withered away. It was as if their skin was mummified and eaten away by an animal. When the gas cleared, nothing but decrepit corpses littered the streets of a once populous city. All around the world this scene repeated itself again and again.
The vapours cleared and a new horror began. Creatures of all shapes and sizes ran amok around the world. Debbie recognized them as being Digimon. Those who survived fought valiantly against the Digimon. Their tanks shelled the Digimon repeatedly but the creatures seemed unaffected. The Digimon fought back with ferocious force and wiped out the enemy with ease. The armies of the Real World dropped like flies to the vast might of the Digimon menace.
**************************************
The next morning Debbie woke up drenched in her own sweat. She remembered her dream right down to each and every minute detail. The dream was so real, she began to question whether she had actually experienced the events in her dream. Debbie felt it would help if she confided in her Digimon about the dream. Her Digimon were concerned about the meaning of the dream.
Debbie got ready to face the trials of the day. She got dressed and headed off to the Blue Falcon meeting room to receive her duties for the day. The speaker began by asking if anyone had had any notable dreams last night. Debbie promptly raised her hand and recounted everything that happened in her dream. It seemed that she was not alone... Other Guard Tamers had experienced the same dream.
This got the Falcons to begin talking in their own little huddles about the mysterious dream. Some of the more superstitious Falcons believed it was a vision of the future. The Real World would soon face a terrible crisis that they would have to prevent. This belief became a movement that spread throughout the minds of the Blue Falcons. The speaker called for order to continue her briefing and the Tamers soon returned to listening to the speaker.
The next item she mentioned was the topic of the Blood Knights' leader. He was named Overlord GAIA, but there were no further details about who or what Overlord GAIA was. However, their spies had reported that Overlord GAIA was growing terrified of the return of a being called "the Avenger." The Avenger had fought Overlord GAIA in the past and defeated him. The chiefs were certain that the recent resurgence of Blood Knight activity was in part to prevent the advent of the Avenger.
"Your task is simple; find any clues as the identity of this 'Avenger' and report it to your commanders," ordered the speaker.
**************************************
Akira also had the same dream as Debbie but after the dream, he could hear subtle voices speaking to his mind. Yet, he could not make out what they were saying. In a strange way, they felt familiar, as if he had heard them long ago. It whispered words like a ghost in the wind. A vision of a steel harlequin face flashed in his mind. The face was contorted into an evil grin, as though enjoying the suffering of others. Now the voices came in clearly...
"GAIA, I will destroy you once and for all!"
It seemed to echo from within the deepest reaches of Akira's mind. A vision of the city returned to his mind. The biochemical weapons spread death and destruction again. In this vision, Akira could see the harlequin face gloating over the rotten, fetid bodies of his victims. He was left with a deep-rooted hatred for the harlequin face, a hatred often reserved for a mortal enemy...
**************************************
The next day in the Real World began with a beautiful autumn morning . Leaves of gold and brown adorned the trees. A gentle, cool breeze picked up and the leaves fluttered in the air. A groundskeeper was busy raking the leaves of the school field. As he worked, the leaves piled up into a heap the size of a miniature hill. He shoved the leaves into his trash bag and delivered it to the dump zone. The groundskeeper returned to admire his work. The field was ready for the children's athletic activities.
A few hours pass and the chatter of children grew as they came to school. Mimi Tachikawa was among the children attending school. Before, Mimi had lived in Japan with the other Digidestined. However, after several Digimon attacks in the past, Mimi's mother was adamant about moving away. Mimi's father eventually found a new job in New York, and the Tachikawas have lived there ever since. However, it was a futile gesture. For extra-dimensional creatures such as the Digimon, Digiports could be opened anywhere in the world...
Mimi's morning classes passed by uneventfully and lunchtime came around. Mimi usually ate lunch with Michael and her new friends, the American Digidestined. However, this time, Michael was mysteriously absent.
"Where's Michael? He's usually eats lunch with us..." asked Mimi.
"He had some extra work to do. He'll come soon," replied Lou.
Suddenly, Michael bolted into the lunchroom! "Hey guys! You got to come see this quick!"
"What is it?" asked Maria.
The other American DD followed Michael into a crowd of students. They were gathered around a TV set watching the news. On the screen were pictures of gigantic monsters engaging the massed army of the US.
"Strange monsters have appeared in the US and Japan and are attacking any who stand in their way. Viewers may remember a similar monster incident in Odaiba, Japan three years ago. Sources say that humans were spotted leading these monsters. Several munitions and pharmaceutical production sites have been raided and looted by the enemy. This just in! We have live footage of a press conference in the Pentagon."
The image shifted from the news anchorman to a press conference room in the Pentagon. On the podium was the US Secretary of Defence. Behind him was a navy blue background with a picture of the Pentagon on it. Several reporters were gathered in the room and several camera flashes went off. He began by addressing the audience about the situation on hand. After he was done, he declared a Q&A period for the benefit of the public. Several journalists asked questions of him about the monster situation, but the answers they got raised even more questions.
From the Secretary they learned of the marked organized nature of their attack. In the Odaiba incident, the monsters were not organized at all. This new batch of monsters was also lead by members of an unknown terrorist organization. Casualties for the American army were mounting, because conventional weaponry had little to no effect on the monsters. Other members of the UN were called in to assist the American army but it would take time for them to mobilize.
Knowing the terrorists' choice of targets, there was a great fear of a biochemical weapons. Most of the terrorists' targets were biochemical and pharmaceutical companies and factories. A few were munitions plants that created ammunition and missiles. The Secretary warned of the potential danger of biochemical weaponry being created and used by the enemy. The enemy attacks were surely raids to loot sites for parts for such a weapon.
"Digimon!" exclaimed Mimi.
"We have to do something, we can't let those Digimon harm any more people!" declared Michael.
"I saw several Megas with them, Michael. We wouldn't stand a chance unless we had more Megas..." warned Steve. "The only Mega we have is your Metal Seadramon and he's newly Digivolved too."
"I'm with Michael, we can't just stand here! Many more people will be hurt, we must do something!" added Lou.
Mimi's D-Terminal beeped and she checked her E-mail. Her new message came from Izzy, just the person she needed to talk to! Izzy was asking for help to stop similar Digimon attacks in Japan. He asked Mimi to find Michael and meet the others in the Digital World to discuss strategy. Mimi passed on the message to the others, which gave them a flicker of hope in the face of despair.
"So I finally get to meet Izzy! I heard so much about him from you. I'm eager to meet him."
Mimi and her Digidestined friends received transport to the Digital World courtesy of the D-3's of the younger Digidestined of Japan. The two groups met and Mimi gave both Joe and Izzy a hug. School in Odaiba had been cancelled because of the threat of Digimon encroaching on the city. Their reunion was abruptly cut short by the sounds of explosions ripping through the wind. In the distance, they could see smoke billowing into the air and several tracers being fired into the air.
**************************************
In the Digital World, a fierce battle raged on the deserts of Server. Explosions pounded the sandy landscape of the desert. Guard Tamers and Blood Knights exchanged heavy volleys of fire every second. Missiles and elemental blasts of all kinds lit up the sky. Among this anarchy were two Digimon. One was a Chaos General and aligned with the Blood Knights. The other was Cal, who served the Guard Tamers.
"Needle Squall!" called Cal. The needles impaled themselves into Piedmon's body painfully, making him flinch.
Cal was now in his Pukumon form. He resembled a small, blue, blowfish clad in spiked metal armour. Over his hands were a pair of red gloves and he punched his fists together, as if salivating for battle. He watched Chaos Piedmon as he hovered a few feet off the ground. Other unconscious Guard Tamer Digimon laid strewn on the battlefield; victims of the Chaos General.
"You can't hold out much longer, bozo! Might as well give up..." taunted Cal. "We're going to the Real World to stop your little raid and there's nothing you can do about it!"
Chaos Piedmon growled and took a fighting stance. "Trump Sword!"
Cal dodged the attack but the blades he dodged turned out to be illusions! He frantically looked around for the real swords but it was too late. They dropped onto the top of his bodies like fallen stalactites. Though he was protected there by armour, Cal suffered more pain from the force of the impact rather than the blades themselves.
"Needle Squall!"
"Trump Sword!"
Chaos Piedmon threw several swords at the same moment Cal fired his Needle Squall. The attacks flew through each other and continued straight onwards to their target. Cal gasped in pain as the blades tore into his flesh. At the same time, the Needle Squall had hit Chaos Piedmon all over the body. He screamed in pain as he dive-bombed straight to the ground headfirst.
"GAAAAAAAH!"
Several needles were impaled into Chaos Piedmon's body and data began to leak from the wounds. Cal looked on the falling Chaos Piedmon with satisfaction. The aim of his Needle Squall was true and Chaos Piedmon was turned into a pincushion by that attack. Chaos Piedmon disintegrated into bits of data moments before he hit the ground. Sheena congratulated her Digimon on a well-fought battle.
The Guard Tamers moved quickly to set up a base near the portal they found. Their spies had tipped them off to the Blood Knight raid attempt on the Real World. The Blood Knights were gathering supplies to build an arsenal of biochemical weapons. These new missiles would contain a virus so deadly that it could cause destruction on a scale that rivalled nuclear weapons. The Guard Tamers had captured one of the portals that the Blood Knights used to enter the Real World.
"Ah, how nice to see you again," remarked Debbie.
The Digidestined had approached Debbie to greet her. Debbie, Sheena, Zudokorn and the new Digidestined exchanged introductions with each other. Several new Digibeetles pulled up to the Guard Tamers' new campsite. Akira, Bertran and Joy Joy greeted the new Digidestined allies as Zudokorn called for a strategy meeting.
The massed group of Digidestined entered a large meeting room. The room was already filled with gossiping Guard Tamers awaiting further instructions. To the DD's surprise, many of the Guard Tamers were children like themselves. Younger people had the best chance of bonding with a Digimon and it was their imagination that made this possible. There were adults and teenagers as well; all age groups and generations seemed to be represented amongst the Guard Tamers.
At the very front of the room was a large screen with maps of the Odaiba and New York area. These maps were no doubt used to indicate enemy troop locations and positions. The DD and their Digimon were welcome to stay provided they assist in the battle. They agreed and took seats near the front of the room and patiently awaited the beginning of the briefing.
"All right troops, here's the situation. The Blood Knights are raiding Real World depots for parts to create a new biochemical weapon. Guard Tamer Intel has determined that the attack on Japan is a feint. The real force is raiding America for the supplies. Therefore the bulk of our counter force will go to America while a smaller one goes to Japan. These forces are to drive the Blood Knights out of the Real World. We are authorized to provide aid to the Real World armies and assist them in battle if needed."
Zudokorn fiddled with his controls and several dots appeared on the overhead maps. "These are the locations of the enemy units. As we can see, more units are attacking America than Japan. However, we'll have to go to both places to protect the people. Here is the known makeup of the enemy units."
A list of various types of Digimon appeared on the screen along with the units they belonged to. The list was fairly impressive and spanned Digimon of virtually all types, levels and elements.
"We will now have a brief Q&A session to answer any questions you may have."
Izzy raised his hand and Zudokorn called him out. "Will the UN armies be willing to cooperate?"
"We are well aware of your concern. Our leaders have been in contact with the leaders of your world to inform them of our intentions. We are sure they will co-operate. Are there any more questions? "
After various Guard Tamers asked a few more questions, the assembly was split up according to their destination. The American and older Japanese Digidestined were assigned to go to America, along with Zudokorn, Debbie and Sheena. The others would be sent to Japan to quell the raids there. The Guard Tamers and Digidestined leapt into action.