A/N: FFN is back and so am I! That sounded way too cheerful. Anyway here is the latest installment in the longest thing I have ever written in my life, The Lord of the Nightmare Soldiers. * Crowds cheer and worship my creation * or maybe that's just in my mind.
Anyway please read the author note at the end because there is a very important message there.
Disclaimer: don't own digimon, so please don't sue; you won't get anything: I have to spend all my money on summer school, but I do have some chocolate covered espresso beans, you may have those if you like.
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The land laid in silence; a forceful breeze flew over the rolling fields of grass tossing the long blades about. The crisp green leaves, making up the canopy of the forest, rattled in a soft rhythm as the wind blew over them shaking their steams and hitting the trucks of the large trees they grew from.
Silence became a beautiful melody, the instruments playing the soothing song consisted of the rattling leafs, howling wind, and gentle streams. This melody was more exciting than a rock concert, more comforting than a lullaby; this melody was a song of life. A song that showed the creatures of the land just how wonderful their home truly was.
The inhabitants of the land all rested peacefully, each unaware of the new day's significance, each dreaming of their hearts desires. All felt safe and content with the simple life which had become the way of the Southern lands. None felt a strong desire for change, none saw the flaws and weakness, which had invaded their society, but today the simple life, the flaws, the weaknesses will all be addressed and conquered. Today the Nightmare Soldiers will rediscover themselves.
"Can't we stop and rest for the remainder of the night?" an enthralling voice asked and then yawned to show her point.
"There is no time." came the gentle reply. "We must be ready before sunrise, and that is not very far away." Matt sympathized with Ladydevimon completely, the spell which had trapped the demon in stone left her tired, but none were as exhausted as him. The battle with the Devidramon and then the final test left him tired, hungry, and emotionally drained, but still the new Lord felt that there was an utmost need for urgency.
The blond was certain that his nemesis Deamon was on the move, the demon lord had no need for rest, and the possibility of an attack on the South or earth was a constant concern in the you man's mind.
'What if the Nightmare Soldiers refuse my leadership, I may loose more to Deamon. That deranged beast already outnumbers the South three to one, if more Nightmare Soldiers leave then we will truly have a problem.' Matt's thoughts only filled him with dread, but these thoughts were not the only worries haunting his mind. 'I wonder how TK and the others are, I know Tai will take care of them if there's another attack, but what if it's something too strong, even for him. I just wish I knew if they were all right.'
The blonde's eyes locked on the ground as fear for his brother and friends sent a waver of depression over him.
"There is no need."
The three digimon turned around to look at their Lord; each had a puzzled look at the teen's words. The group had traveled in silence for some time, and the blonde's words seemed to come out of nowhere.
Matt tore his eyes from the ground and looked at the three digimon with a small smile, then he turned his attention to the smallest of the three.
"There is no need to try and read my thoughts, I'll tell you what is on my mind." The teen stated with a kind smile.
Sorcerymon bowed and whispered back in an almost fearful voice. "I am sorry my Lord."
Matt could only raise an eyebrow at this response. "For what?"
"For trying to invaded your mind." The champion digimon explained sounding as though he was certain that the teen was upset.
Matt chuckled lightly at Sorcerymon's timid response. "I'm not upset; and call me Matt, there is no need for titles amongst friends."
Sorcerymon's eyes lightened up at these words.
Both Ladydevimon and WereGarurumon had turned their full attention to the two and their conversation, and were now both very interested in what their friend had to say.
"So what is on your mind?" the fallen angel ask with a mournful look flooding over her scarlet eyes. Both she and WereGarurumon knew that their friend was distressed, exhausted, and depressed.
"I am worried about what will happen once the announcement is made. It is true that many will follow me whether they like the idea or not, simply because Zhuqiaomon has instructed them to, but many will rebel and leave just like when Piedmon was destroyed. We will loose many powerful warriors to Deamon."
Matt stated his concern; his words only brought down the spirits of the other members in the group.
"They are not the ones we would want anyway. The entire purpose of the new rein is to remove all those unworthy of their place in the south. This is the only land where immortality and beauty are a common factor in all areas; such things come with a price. If these digimon are not loyal to the will of the Digi-Core then they are not worthy of a place here, better that they leave of their own free will rather then be forced out." WereGarurumon expressed his view on the matter. The thought of anyone disliking his partner was unfathomable to him; but he knew that many would not offer Matt an opportunity to prove himself capable.
"Well enough of this if we're not going to rest then we're not going to chat!" Ladydevimon chirped with glee. "Let's go prepare to build an empire."
WereGarurumon and Sorcerymon both nodded showing their agreement as Matt smile at the excited demon.
"Well then let's go." The blond ordered as a new sense of purpose and fresh energy filled his mind.
The stars began to fade as the light from the rising sun drowned out the twinkling diamonds silver glow. The sunrise was beautiful, with streaks of pink, orange, and red beaming over the horizon. The light crept over the tall mountain range, which made the walls to Forbidden Valley. Slowly drops of sunlight hit the floor of the valley calling all digimon to wake and begin another day. While the natives of the South began to rise from their dreams, another group prepared for the events of the day.
In the center of Forbidden Valley stood another mountain range. Like the walls of the valley this range had tall peaks which reached into the clear blue sky. The cliffs were step, and they did not carry any plant life on their rocky sides. The range was of three tall mountains, each peak had a high pointed summit and if the range was found on earth one would truly believe that the mountains had been altered by man. But the peaks were natural, a show of just how grand Zhuqiaomon's vision for the south was. Lying towards the top of the mountains in the very center of the three was a large flat land. The flat land was much like the platform hanging in the center of Zhuqiaomon's volcano, but there are some key differences.
The center of the three mountains was of the same flat smooth stone found on the platform of the volcano. The stone was dark gray and well polished to the point where reflections shone back perfectly. The three pointed summits of the mountains cast shadows upon the vacant area, preventing the still rising sun's light from brightening the forgotten site.
"What is this place?"
"I think the question is what was this place WereGarurumon." Sorcerymon chirped in reply to the werewolf's bafflement.
"This is Trica's Citadel, the very heart of the South. It's the center of Forbidden Valley, which is the center of both life and landmarks of the South." Ladydevimon added helpfully.
"It seems kind of barren doesn't it." WereGarurumon spoke to no one in particular.
Matt gazed up at Trica's Citadel with an almost recalcitrant look burning in his azure eyes. The step cliffs with the ominous sharp summits where his last obstacle before he finally took the plunge into the light.
"It is barren because no one has dared to go to such a sacred place in years." Ladydevimon stated as she stared in awe at the three mountains, her eyes focused upon the center of the three.
"Not since the construction of Spiral Mountain. Piedmon used Trica's Citadel as a meeting place for his generals, this is where he and the Dark Masters decided to reconfigure the Digital World." Sorcerymon added, the educated digimon spent a great deal of his life learning the secrets of the Digital World and its history. The wizard could tell you stories for hours on how the world became what it is.
"It was not meant to be a place where angered fools discuss the destruction of the world." Matt expressed bitterly to himself. The burden of having to repair all the damage, which the clown digimon had left behind, was finally beginning to wear him down.
"Then what was it meant for?" WereGarurumon asked, the ultimate was confused and slightly aggravated that he was unaware of this three cliffs significance.
"Trica's Citadel was made to be a meeting place, but not so deranged minds could cock up insane ideas about war and destruction. Trica was meant to be a place where generals and ambassadors could speak in a controlled setting, about the future of the South and the Digital World." Matt added, not wanting to go too far into the matter. His mind was lost on thoughts of politics and his brother and friends left behind.
"Well we had better get cracking on climbing." Ladydevimon broke the silence, which had settled amongst the group. "Of course it would be easier if the two of you could fly." The demon taunted the two partners in sport.
Matt only sighed at the fallen angel's jeering as he registered what her taunts meant. "She's right we don't have much time; it's already sunrise."
"Why not have me digi-volve into MetalGarurumon?" the werewolf asked his partner with an arched eyebrow.
The teen only shook his head no, at this then explained. "For one I don't know if I have the power, remember that WarGreymon was only able to go to mega with the help of the core from Azulongmon. The other thing is that MetalGarurumon isn't a Nightmare Soldier type digimon. I don't want to take the risk of them turning on you. Gabumon and Garurumon are common in this valley because they are so directly connected to WereGarurumon, but MetalGarurumon is a vaccine type digimon, not to mention a Metal Empire. Those kind of digimon are only found in the West and East."
WereGarurumon nodded solemnly. "West and East, two places that aren't exactly on the Nightmare Soldier's vacation list."
The blond chuckled at this then turned his attention back to the cliffs.
"I have a suggestion." Sorcerymon stated, his voice held the smile that his hidden face wore.
"What?" Ladydevimon asked skeptically.
Sorcerymon took a step back from the group, then began chanting softly in the language of wizards. As he went deeper in his chant he slowly lifted his arms.
The group soon grew curious as they saw that the wizard's hands were glowing with a soft white light. Suddenly the light flew from Sorcerymon's gray gloves and engulfed both Matt and WereGarurumon in a bubble of light and energy.
Slowly the white sphere of energy began to rise from the ground taking the partners to the air with it.
Ladydevimon and Sorcerymon both began to float following the bubbles slow assent to the top of the cliffs.
"Very nice." Matt stated with a smile as he looked at the white energy swirling around him.
WereGarurumon nodded showing his agreement as a large grin spread across his snout.
In only a few short moments the groups of four reached the round platform in the center of the three mountains.
The smooth stone was outlined with the same ancient digi-code as the square platform. The sun's advancing light reflected off the silver emboss making a bright glow around the platform. The summits from the mountains seemed to branch out from the small valley in the center. On the inside of the valley the summits were also polished and smooth.
It was easy to see how the flat land could have been mistaken as a place to conjure wars, for the opened area looked much like a battle arena. There were not seats, or stone platelets for the group to sit upon, the area was completely vacant of furnishing.
"So the politicians and ambassadors just stood where ever they liked as they held political talks?" WereGarurumon asked as his yellow eyes scanned over the area.
Matt smirked and shrugged his shoulders. "Well think about, digimon like Machinedramon and such wouldn't fit on any seats. So benches and stuff are just not practical."
"This is amazing!" Ladydevimon expressed as her scarlet eyes went over the details of the round valley. "I have never been very close to Trica's Citadel, and now I am standing on the very grounds were Lord Piedmon use to conduct his meetings." The demon walked about the circle looking at everything in awe.
"She is too easily impressed." The werewolf snorted sourly.
Sorcerymon nodded his head showing his agreement before he headed to the leg of the round platform.
Matt and WereGarurumon were left alone as their two companions studied the view of Forbidden Valley.
'It's hurting him more than he will admit. I just wish he would talk to me, but I know he feels he must do this on his own. Why must it be my partner that goes through so much pain? Maybe he and I were both cursed from the beginning.'
Matt's crystal eyes were locked on his own reflection. The gray stone fizzled out some of his color, but his reflection was still very precise and noticeable. The teen's intense stare seemed to have some accusing glares in it as he watched the faded version of himself.
"Matt?" the ultimate digimon took a timid step forward as he tried to coax a response out of his musing partner.
"It's funny, but when I was younger I thought that this was all there was." the blond kept his voice even despite the childish amusement radiating from his words. "I was so blind, but then again the rest of the world has its moments too."
WereGarurumon looked at his partner with concern, as he did not understand the meaning behind Matt's statement.
Matt never once lifted his eyes from his own reflection, but he knew that his partner was concerned and confused by his words. With a heavy sigh the blond lowered himself to the ground so that he was crouch on his legs with one hand placed securely on the platform for balance.
"When I was little I thought only of my brother and the few friends I had, but then my parents split up. My mother took my brother away with her, while my father took my friends away by forcing me to leave them behind. After that I began to fade. I hated both of my parents for splitting us apart. I hated my mom for taking my brother, and I hated my dad for leaving me alone. He would go off to work for long days, I was only seven and he would leave me alone. He told me to go out and play and make new friends, but I hated him so much that I thought by saying no it would hurt him. True, it did hurt him, but I think it hurt me worse, because that was when I began to fade. I locked myself away from the world. I had people try to be my friends, but I was so angry and so afraid. I was so afraid I'd have to leave them like my other friends."
Matt took a breath, allowing his partner to take in this knew information. WereGarurumon knew more about the teen then anyone, but there were some things that Matt still kept from the digimon. There were some things he would keep from everybody; things he would take to his grave.
"It was around that time that I believed that image was everything. I shredded my innocent and happy look for a cool calm and even cold exterior. My dad was worried, but I never gave him the satisfaction of a word on my behavior. I started hanging out with people I shouldn't have, not because I wanted friends, but because I wanted an image. An image of someone tuff who could never be hurt. I guess I felt that if people believed that you couldn't be hurt then they'd never waste their time and energy on trying to hurt you."
Matt paused once more then he shifted his position until he was sitting comfortable on the smooth stone with his knees pulled safely to his chest.
"I think that eventually it went beyond image to routine. I was used to being the cold, aloof rebel. People thought I was arrogant, but I think that many of them envied me. Imagine that, but it didn't matter. No matter how many admired me I was still all about image, but then a miracle happened. My dad dragged me to summer camp, of course the moment he mention TK was going to be there I became willing. I ended up at a large summer camp confined to a group of misfit kids; well I guess all kids are misfits. I was really content though, just being around my little brother, and watching him laugh and play like a normal kid made me feel joy that I never thought possible. It made everything seem worth it, the lonely nights, the cold image. Everything was worth the trouble if my little brother could smile and be happy. I felt I had purpose, but I still felt alone. That is were the second miracle comes in, Tai. That big hair jock never accept my aloof personality. You know if it weren't for him, I probably would have never realized what friendship really means. He taught me that images fade, and that mine had caused me to fade. I miss both of them, all of them. I just hope that when this is all over we could still be friends; because if it weren't for my friends I would still be just another fading image."
WereGarurumon listened to Matt's tale with sympathy. He knew his partner hated to be pitied, that was one of the reasons the teen never really spoke much on how he felt, but Matt was going through a lot. He had problems in the real world to deal with as well as the struggle here in the Digital World.
"Yamato, just because you have chosen this path does not mean you will walk it alone. I will always be there to help you. Your generals will stand by your side. So have faith in your friends and the bond all of you hold. Have faith that this bond will not be broken so easily." WereGarurumon's words broke Matt out of his trance like state.
"You're right." The blond smiled as he stood from the ground and turned to call his generals over. "Ladydevimon, Sorcerymon!"
The demon and wizard type digimon both came the moment they heard their names. Each was in great antisipation as they knew that the time of the announcement was appraoching fast.
The three digimon stood side by side as they waited for their Lord's instructions.
"Devidramon have been sent out to the four citadels surrounding these mountains. The Devidramon should have already delivered their messages by now, and scouts should be leaving the citadels and spreading the news that Zhuqiaomon commands all Nightmare Soldiers to Trica." Matt explained what was promised to be happening.
"If this is Trica's Citadel, then how come there are citadels surrounding it?" WereGarurumon asked in bafflement.
"Well, Trica's Citadel is actually taken from the landmarks in Forbidden Valley. You see Trica means three, and that represents the three mountains. And the Citadel comes from the four citadels protecting the mountains. To the north we have the citadel of enlightenment, to the east we have the citadel of nobility, to the west there is the citadel of battle, and finally to the south we have the citadel of virtue. Each of these citadels are set up to protect Trica, and should there every be an attack on the south then all digimon would come to the center of Forbidden Valley for safety."
Ladydevimon giggled. "At least now we know to look for you at the citadel of enlightenment, should you ever go missing." The demon jeered at Sorcerymon, who had just completed his explanation.
WereGarurumon was about to snap something in annoyance when Matt spoke.
"The Nightmare Soldiers are forming crowds at the bottom, and Zhuqiaomon is almost here. Get ready." Matt's voice suddenly changed from its soft tone to a command. He stood to his full height and all signs of weakness and fatigue faded from his form. He ran a sweaty palm through his hair then took a deep breath preparing himself for what was about to happen.
WereGarurumon and the generals bowed showing their respect then each went to their post.
Sorcerymon walked to the left and opened his mind allowing his telepathy to seek out any that may not hold good status with the way of the south.
Ladydevimon stood to the right, she held her head up high as her scarlet eyes looked over the many creatures below. She searched each one of them, looking for any hints of attackers.
WereGarurumon stood off to the back. He tried to stay close enough for Matt to feel his presence without giving off the impression that the teen needed him there.
Matt sighed as he moved to the center of the platform. For a moment he simple closed his eyes and allowed his new power to see for him. He could feel Sorcerymon's power stretching out over the crowd, he could feel Ladydevimon's guard rise to its strongest. For a moment he allowed his focus to fall upon his partner. WereGarurumon was filled with pride and happiness for him, all the pity and remorse had faded as the ultimate watch his partner, who had grown so much. The teen would have loved to keep all his focus on WereGarurumon, but his instincts told him to search the crowd.
With some reluctance Matt opened his eyes and focused his attention towards the multitude of digimon gathering at the foot of the mountains.
The blonde's azure eyes studied each beast large and small, humanoid and animal, until his sight rested upon a small, colorful ghost digimon. Matt blinked then looked closer at the cactus digimon.
Sorcerymon? Matt thought hoping the wizard would not be too distracted with the crowd. Sorcerymon.
Sorcerymon immediately snapped out of his trance and directed his thoughts to Matt. Yes Lord Yamato?
Yamato ignored the use of his title and focused his energy on the telepathic conversation. Have you felt anything… out of place?
The teen asked showing his uncertainty. While he wasn't sure if his suspicions on the Mexican ghost were correct, he was also trying to keep his focus up. It took a lot of energy to communicate telepathically despite the fact that the one he spoke to was telepathic.
I'm not certain my Lord, there are many confused minds, but I have felt several digimon which seem suspicious.
Matt nodded and made a mental note that there may be more then one spy in the audience.
I have only felt one that strikes my concern. In the crowd there is a Ponchomon; there is something about him that does not seem right.
Sorcerymon focused his attention to the ghost digimon.
Ghost digimon are wild sprits my Lord, it will be difficult for me to be certain. If you would like I will go closer and try my best to discover if he is a threat.
Matt thought about this for a moment.
No, keep an eye on him from here. I think I know who he works for and what his purpose is, and if I am right then he will play an important part in this announcement.
And what part is that my Lord? Sorcerymon asked with great curiosity.
Matt did not answer quickly and it almost seemed as though he was debating on not answering at all. Finally that debate was settled and he responded in a calm but wretched way.
He will be the one to accuse me and call me a fraud.
Sorcerymon did not respond to this, instead he did as he was ordered and kept his focus on the wicked Ponochomon.
The crowd began to roar with question, each straining their eyes in an attempt to see the figures standing on the platform. Yells, conversation, and question echoed off the cliffs as Nightmare Soldiers continued to arrive, some in herds, flocks and caravans, and others completely alone.
Matt began to grow anxious, he wanted the announcement to be over and the stress of waiting only made him more nervous.
A cry rang out from the crowd, which silenced all others.
"Look!"
The simple word drew every digimon's attention to the air as a flock of Devidramon blackened the sky. The demon dragons circled Trica's Citadel then each flew to a spot and gracefully landed on their perches. The crowd of Nightmare Soldiers was silent as the Devidramon began to screech in unison. The cries were piercing but they drew the attention of every digimon within a ten-mile radius to the three mountains.
Then just as quickly and preciously as the dragons had begun their call they stopped, and a sickening silence reined over the land.
Suddenly awe and wonder filled the audience as the morning blue sky began to fad into a deep crimson. Streaks of organ and yellow decorated the red sky with the colors of a blazing fire. Fire spun is swirls across the sky; many digimon cried and fell to the ground as the swirls of fire took the form of Zhuqiaomon.
"Zhuqiaomon has come back!"
"He has come to bless us with a new Lord!"
Cries of praise rang from the ground, all worshipping the Digi-God of the South.
Zhuqiaomon spread out his large wings as though to silence the crowd. Immediately the multitude went quiet. All the Nightmare Soldiers looked upon the mega ,which had father them, with respect and love
"Children of the South!" the phoenix's deep voice projected over the land as he addressed his digimon. "For many years I have slept awaiting the time when I should seek you out a new ruler. I have watch as many of our own have fallen in battle. I have watch as many have left our land for glory in another, and I will watch once more as the weakest of you leave this land and turn to our enemies."
These words brought the crowd to mumble in bewilderment and anger.
"We would never betray our own!"
shouts of similar promises range out but were soon silence as Zhuqiaomon's power radiated from him in the form of a red force field.
"Our people have become know as savage fools, Piedmon is gone and order has fleeted from our hearts!" Zhuqiaomon's words caused all heads to drop in shame since the race of warriors knew that these charges were true.
"Today this will change. All old ways of savagery and vulgarity will be ripped from our society. We will be the race we once were, and I have chosen one who has been ordained by the Digi-Core to lead you. Today I bring before you your new Lord, Yamato Ishida."
Matt stepped forward so that he could be seen by the crowd. Roars of anger and confusion range out. Many of the digimon shouted at Zhuqiaomon accusing him of poor judgment as other simple stared in shock of seeing a human.
"Yamato has defeated Piedmon and passed the test of the Digi-Core therefor proving himself worthy to be the new Lord of the Nightmare Soldiers."
More cries of outrage range out and many digimon began screaming threats, but Matt didn't flinch. He stood perfectly still. His head had be hung the entire time he stood in sight. To those on the ground it seemed that all life had left him, but to those who stood on the platform with him it seemed that he was musing on something.
Finally the debate seemed to have ended and Matt's muscles relaxed as the stress from the decision left. The teen shot his head up so quickly that it shocked everyone to silence. His blue eyes seemed to burn with a calm fire but still he said nothing.
Zhuqiaomon did not speak, and Matt seemed to have no desire to brake the intimidating silence. Finally an IceDevimon seemed to build up enough courage to speak. Slowly he spread out his wings and flew above the multitude so that all, including Matt could hear him.
"I have been loyal to you my whole life Zhuqiaomon, never once have I spoke out against the Digi-Core, but if you would have me serve this boy, then I would have to say that you have gone mad!"
Cries of agreement with the ice devil's words roared from the crowd.
"He is one of the very factor who have sworn to destroy our kind!" a small rookie shouted from the crowd.
These cries didn't seem to bother Matt, he had expected a worse response, but Ladydevimon in all her pride was very upset by the mocks her Lord was receiving.
The demon rushed to the end of the platform and shouted out to the crowd. "You are the fools, all of you!"
"Don't tell me Ladydevimon, that a digimon as respected as yourself, has been reduced to serving a child!" the same rookie mocked.
Ladydevimon's eyes narrowed on the digimon. "Hold your tongue Impmon or I will rip it from your mouth!" she shouted and prepared for an attack. In less then a second a swarm of bats was heading straight for the unsuspecting rookie.
The crowd moved away trying to avoid the attack as the swarm of bats approached the Impmon at high speed. The Impmon screeched in horror and held his three fingered hands over his eyes in an attempt to block out the sight of his approaching doom.
The crowd held their breaths as the bats reach their target.
The bats hit and then faded into particles of black data. The Nightmare Soldiers looked in wonder at the blue force field, which had blocked the attack from hitting the outspoken rookie. The crowd grew even more amazed as they realized who had put up the defense. The creatures began to point and speak in low whispers as the blue faded from Matt's hand and the force field faded from around the Impmon.
Matt ignored all the Nightmare Soldiers on the ground and calmly walked to Ladydevimon who now hung her head in shame.
"I'm so sorry my Lord." The demon spoke softly as she locked her eyes on the ground too afraid to look at Matt.
Matt smiled and repressed a laugh. "I thought I told you to call me Matt." He giggled out trying to ease the fallen angel's worry.
The crowd all stared up in wonder, each was certain that the bold demon would be killed since it was obvious that her Lord did not approve of her action.
"I know that you're mad at them, but come on don't you think ripping that little guy to shreds is a bit harsh." Matt abandoned his commanding tone for a moment and spoke to Ladydevimon like he would his little brother.
Ladydevimon scowled in defense then answered. "They need to learn to respect you."
"Respect and fear are two totally different things. You should have known they'd respond like this, you'd probably be a little skeptical too if you hadn't been there with me for my other test." Matt lectured with a smile. "I know it's going to take a while to earn their trust, it might even take a lifetime, but I am ready for that challenge, and I need you to be too."
Ladydevimon bowed her head so that the crowd could see her benevolence.
Once the demon had return to her respected place Matt returned to the edge of the platform.
The Nightmare Soldiers began to mumble to one another once more as they tried to make sense of what just happened.
The IceDevimon watched the crowd talk with one another for a few moments before he returned his attention to the teen. Matt held the demon's stare allowing the white humanoid to look him over.
"You know compassion, but the young one is right. You are a Digidestined, one of the very children responsible for Piedmon's death. How do you answer to that?" the ice demon demanded with an accusing tone.
Matt took a deep breath before answering. "My history with Piedmon is none of your concern." He stated coldly but kept his voice even.
Murmurs of mixed responses could be heard from the audience. Some were impressed with the fact that the teen held his dignity and calm under their questioning, while others were offended and wanted an answer to the charge.
The IceDevimon which was leading the question was taken back by Matt's boldness but was also now very intrigued with him.
'How do I answer to something like this when I know it's true?' the teen thought desperately to himself. His desire to be with his brother and friends grew with each breath he took. Every moment he stood on that platform was agony for him, since he never felt more alone and exposed.
Despite Matt's nervous and even frightened feelings he still managed to keep up a cold front. Years of supporting an image had made him strong and taught him how to hold under pressure.
"Forgive me you are right your past is unimportant, but what does concern me is your future here." The devil spoke softening his tone a bit.
Matt let out a mental sigh of relief as he prepared to answer the new questioned, but before he could build a reply a swirl of green color rushed into the air until it met the height of the IceDevimon.
"It is a good questioned, and should not be dismissed so easily." The creature hissed out. "How do we know this boy was not sent here by Azulongmon to destroy us in our time of weakness?" the Ponchomon's coal black eyes stared deeply into Matt searching for any signs of restlessness.
Matt took another deep breath knowing that no matter how he answered the cactus ghost would find some kind of fault with him.
"I have no connection with Azulongmon or Gennia. I served both of them when I was needed and that was the will of the Digi-Core. You asked how I would answer to Piedmon's death, then I answer guilty. I was responsible for Piedmon's destruction, I played a large part in that battle, but every time I fought as a Digidestined I did it with the consent of the Digi-Core. Now I stand before you at the Digi-Core's biding and my choice."
Matt answered knowing his response would drive more insults at him.
The Ponchomon laughed; his hallow voice cracked with mockery. "You are just a boy! Even more you are a Digidestined. I would rather die then serve the one responsible for Piedmon's death! I will not abandon my pride as a Nightmare Soldier and serve a child!"
This outburst brought more yells from the crowd.
Matt took the many shouts and angered stares he was receiving without a word; his eyes never once left the green ghost.
"Nevertheless I am the new Lord, and if you find that to be in anyway unacceptable then leave this meeting." Matt stated coldly.
The Ponchomon was about to argue when Matt held up his hand to silence him. "I have heard your opinion, and I will not force myself on anyone, if you choose to serve me it must be freely."
More mixed responses came from this statement.
"You will brake us apart. We are a race! The grandest race of digimon ever! You will brake us apart because only fools would follow the leadership of a child!" the Ponchomon's cries were soon joined by similar insults as other Nightmare Soldiers took in what the ghost said.
The IceDevimon, which had first began the questioning, now floated off to the side in silence. His eyes were downcast as his clawed hand was raised to his chin as though he were thinking. Finally he floated back to were Matt stood and looked him in the eyes.
"When Piedmon was first elected there were many who disapproved. The idea that such a mysterious and antisocial digimon could lead was outrageous in many minds, but still all accepted it. He was insane but we grew to both love and respect him, but he did not have the weight you have. If you truly took this position, then you know that you would not only have to serve as our Lord, but also pick up the many pieces that Piedmon left behind." The last statement was more of a questioned then a comment.
Matt nodded his head his eyes narrowed slightly but his face remained emotionless. "Yes, I know." He replied with no hint of remorse.
The IceDevimon nodded his head as he stored away the answer then he looked back at the teen. "And you would also know that many will not accept you, that your own might abandon you, and that you very life is at stake for standing before us now?"
Matt took a deep breath then locked eyes with the crimson orbs staring back at him. "Yes."
The simple but confident reply seemed to settle the ice demon's mind. "If Zhuqiaomon claims you to be the Lord then I will not question. You have certainly prove yourself to be strong and as long as you serve my people I will serve you."
This value of loyalty caused voices to rise in an uproar.
"You are a fool, you hand our land and our life over to our enemy!" the Ponchomon shouted in anger.
"If the Digi-Core and Zhuqiaomon have faith in him then who am I to questioned?" came the simple reply. After the IceDevimon had spoken he bowed then floated back to the crowd to watch the rest of the event.
Ponchomon laughed hysterically now. Neither him nor Matt was prepared for such acceptance. Both had expected over half the South to have left by now, but only a few outraged digimon have stomped off.
"I understand that our loyalty lies with Zhuqiaomon and the Digi-Core, but Yamato has murdered our people. He has taken part in the death of Devimon of File Island, Myotismon of Server, and even our very master Lord Piedmon! Will you now value your life to him? Will you now live on your knees always seeking his approval? I for one will never gravel for a murdering human!"
Roars of agreement rang out from the crowd as fist flew into the air and many chanted their disapproval of Matt. Through all this Matt was quiet, he never once tried to interrupt Ponchomon nor did he scream out defenses now.
Many digimon began to separate from the crowd and soon the audience had split in half. The first half remained silent; most of them found Matt to be acceptable while the others simple kept their loyalties to their race. The other half was filled with screaming digimon, all crying out insults and cursing Matt and his followers.
Zhuqiaomon allowed the protesters to continue their uproar for a few minutes before silence them with a low growl.
"Now comes the time to decided." He announced his tone more serious and commanding then ever. "Those who will not follow Yamato," he addressed with no anger or praise. "Do not feel you must follow Lord Yamato because of your heritage. This is a strange time, a time when loyalties must be decided. Those who remain in the South must swear their lives to the Lord chosen by the Digi-Core, but those who refuse may leave. They may find their freedom from leadership in another land. We must separate those who are loyal from those who are willful. If you find your place is not with us then I ask you leave now. Leave and live as you will." Zhuqiaomon's command brought out the uncertainty of the moment.
Many wished to leave but none wanted to be the first to say they held no loyalty to the one who fathered them.
"I will leave. I would rather make another land my own then hand my home over to a child!" with this cry of betrayal the Ponchomon began to float away.
Soon many digimon followed his lead; all scattering off with angered faces cursing Matt under their breaths. Flocks and herds of digimon began to head for the walls of Forbidden Valley all bound for the sea.
'Then it's over, Zhuqiaomon will leave me to make my fist commands.' Matt thought to himself in both relief and distress.
"Those who remain, know this. You are free to leave at any time should you find you hold no respect for Lord Yamato, but so long as you remain in the South you will show him respect. I have chosen him as your Lord for I know he has a pure heart and a strong will. He will teach you the virtues you have lost over the years, and he will lead you to victory over all your enemies. Now be strong and serve him well, and always remember that we are an elite race. We are the Nightmare Soldiers."
Cries of praise rang out from the remaining half of the digimon. Each Nightmare Soldier left sang blessings to their Digi-God, as Zhuqiaomon's body turned from its solid for to pure flames. The swirling fire burned in the air for a moment before turning into a cloud of fire and then vanishing all together.
The crimson sky soon faded into a soft blue. White puff clouds decorated the baby blue ozone like puffs of good will and the sun shone down bright warm rays of light on the digimon still standing at the mountain's edge.
Matt breathed in deeply. His palms began to sweat and his stomach grew knots as his nerves finally tensed up. He felt completely alone now. Zhuqiaomon would not reawaken until another Lord was needed, and Matt hoped that wouldn't be for a long time.
'Now what do I do?' he thought desperately to himself.
The crowd of digimon grew completely silent and still. Each of them looked up at the platform with anticipation. Many of them still held great doubt in Matt's ability to lead them, but the majority of them were so excited that they now had a Lord that they did not dwell on the doubt.
'I wonder how Piedmon started his rein off? No, I guess I shouldn't compare or even try to be like him. But what do I do, what do I say?' Matt just looked at his new subjects and tried to contain the nausea that was building in his stomach. Finally he decided that simply staring wasn't going to get him far, so with an almost timid step forward and a deep breath he addressed the crowd.
"I know that many of you doubt my ability to lead, and you should know that such feelings are justified and even respect. I am human, I am not born of your race, and I am a Digidestined, something that I will not deny. But you should know that I was not selected by Gennia to become a Digidestined. The Digi-Core first brought me to the Digital World, and for the moment I arrived I served its will. My crest allowed me the power to create a Nightmare Soldier, I do not expect this new knowledge to bring your doubts to any ease, but I want you to know that I will serve you to the best of my ability. And if you give me your trust I promise I will not abuse it."
Matt sighed, he really wasn't certain where to go from there, but he tried his best to put his feelings into words.
"Life is an important gift, the most important gift. We who are of balance serve lift. Light, Darkness, they have no meaning here, only life has meaning. If we hold strong to one another then we can bring virtue and justice back into life. If we stay strong together then Azulongmon and Gennia can not touch us; Demon can not brake us. We will rebuild the South and the World will know the power and heart behind the Nightmare Soldiers"
The crowd roared in agreement, each was pleased with the speech and now more ready then ever to follow their new Lord.
"Lord Yamato, what are your first orders?"
Matt looked down to see the small Impmon who only moments ago shouted insults at him bowing. His green eyes looked at his new Lord with the love in his heart.
Matt raised his hand to his chin and cast his eyes down as he thought of how to response.
Suddenly another digimon shouted out.
"Let us build a castle to show our new Lord our devotion!"
The Kuybbimon suggestion received many agreeing shouts.
Matt thought for a moment then shook his head.
"No, not a castle." He replied his tone soft but commanding. He then pointed northeast. "Build a court, something large, showing the beauty of the South. In that court we will begin the first steps on rebuilding the South." This idea not only made Matt seem more serious on his role, but also showed that he was thinking ahead.
"Then we shall build a court in the mountain of the north-east, and it will be the largest and grandest court that ever existed." This time it was the IceDevimon that spoke.
"Soon the world will know that the Nightmare Soldiers have been reborn!"
With this last shout from Matt, Ladydevimon and Sorcerymon flew down and prepared to take records and give orders.
~*~*~
It was the perfect place for a meeting. The park was small out of the way and completely vacant. No sidewalks led into the brush and untended plants, but the grass was healthy and trimmed. Large oak trees loomed over the grassy floor blocking much of the suns bright rays. Blotches of bright sunlight would sometimes make it past the barrier of leafs and decorate the green ground with spots of gold. But these small spot were not enough to bring cheer and life to the abandoned park. The old benches were made of rotting wood and the area itself was decaying except for the healthy grass and oak trees. There was no pond where ducks swam about while children threw breadcrumbs at them, and all the jungle gyms and swings were old and rusted. No child would ever beg their parents to take them to such a lowly place, but the park served an excellent purpose for the small group of teens, which had gathered there.
"Have you tried some of his friends from the music department?" a feminine voice asked, her tone made it sound as though she were trying to help, but her reward was only a glare.
"I told you I've tried everyone!" the snapped words caused the first party to sigh in defeat.
"TK, don't get made at Sora; she was just trying to help." Kari's soft voice brought some reason back to the young blond.
TK was in complete agony. His brother had vanished and not a single soul knew where he had gone.
"How is everyone taking this?" Tai asked, his voice displayed the worry that was quickly consuming him.
TK sighed trying to calm his nerves; his shaky hands slowly went to the ground as he forcefully yanked some grass from their roots. Then he began ripping the blades to shreds in a small attempt to control his fired up emotions.
"I told my dad that he was staying with some friends, and he never ask questions so that was easy. Two of his band members left town because of the monster attacks, so we don't have to worry about questions there. And most of the music department left town as well." It took a great deal of strength for TK to focus on the information; his mind had become a complete blur after his brother's disappearance.
"We're lucky that all schools have been canceled for a while. Not only does it give us a chance to focus on the Digital World, but it also gives us a way to conceal Matt's disappearance." Ken stated logically, hoping the small comfort would help ease some tension.
"If it weren't for those stupid monster attacks he wouldn't be missing in the first place!" TK shouted then buried his face in his hands.
Kari wrapped an arm over TK's quivering shoulders as she tried to soothe him to silence. TK didn't react to Kari's comfort; he kept his head buried as kept repeating incoherent phrases over and over again.
"TK we don't know if the Digi-World has anything to do with this." Joe tried to reason while trying to sound sympathetic as well.
Joe had a great deal of faith that even if Matt was in the Digital World that he was fine. The doctor to be always saw Matt as strong and capable, and he was certain that the blond was safe. Unfortunately none of the others shared his faith. Sora and the younger kids believed that he just took off. It wasn't uncommon, the blond would often just vanish for days when he was depressed, but he always told TK that he was leaving, and that was the reason behind the younger blonde's distress.
Izzy didn't want to rule out any theories on Matt's location, but it was Tai and TK who were convinced that the Child of Friendship was in the Digital World. Both had waited at Matt's apartment all night, and when no news came on him they decided to have this meeting.
TK was a wreck; he handled the disappearance very well at first. He remained calm and stayed up all night without a single tear, but by morning he cracked. News reports on the battle cites kept talking about blood, and that drove the younger brother to the brink of insanity.
Tai seemed to be handling it well. He was clam level headed and open-minded. At least that was how he appeared on the outside, but on the inside he was completely panicked. In his mind Matt had grown depressed again, and the idea that he was attack was brutal on the young leader.
Everyone had remained silent after Joe stated his opinion, but finally the quiet grew to be too much for Yolie. "We've already been over everything, maybe we should think about looking in the Digi-World."
"But the Digital World is huge, where would we start?" Cody's timid voice brought out a new predicament.
Izzy began typing away at his computer as the rest of the group fell silent once more.
"You don't think Deamon is behind this do you?" TK's voice suddenly broke the silence.
The rest of the group turned to look at the Child of Hope. TK's cheeks were red and tear streaked, but his azure eyes were burning with questions.
"I think it's possible. Gennia did say that Deamon was growing in power, and remember he does have the ability to travel between the two worlds." Ken spoke on the matter first. His history with Deamon left him very bitter towards the demon lord.
"But what about this new Lord of the Nightmare Soldiers? Maybe he has something to do with it." Joe added.
"What makes you so sure it's a he?" Yolie asked with a hint of offense.
"I wonder if the new Lord has past all of his test or whatever it was he needed to do." Davis stated bring up a new factor in the discussion.
"He has a point, maybe the new Lord hasn't been chosen yet." Sora expressed as she began to play with some blades of grass.
"Or maybe Matt knows something about the new Lord and that's why he vanished."
Everyone looked at Tai in confusion. The brunette had his eyes locked on the ground as he considered his own theory.
"What do you mean? How could Matt possibly know anything about the new Lord?" Yolie asked in bewilderment.
Tai sighed then looked up so that he could see the baffled and anxious looks he was receiving from the group. "When Gennia first announced this whole new Lord thing, Matt seemed pretty upset. I mean he's been a little moody lately, but he genuinely seemed worried about how this was going to effect everything. He also seemed like he was really on his guard, you know like he was hiding something." Tai offered his evidence then waited for someone to comment on it.
"Tai, Matt is always on his guard, that's just who he is." Sora stated matter-of-factly.
Tai just shook his head, he knew it didn't make since and he wasn't sure how he could explain his concern. "Look I know Matt better then all of you, except TK of course, and I know when something is really bothering him and when he's just going through one of his down times. I'm not saying I have proof, but I do believe he is in the Digital World. And maybe his whole aloof attitude just had to do with the fact that he's stressed and doesn't want to fight anymore, but given the circumstances I don't think we should rule anything out."
Everyone nodded in agreement to Tai's last remark.
"Okay now let's think logically." Izzy announced bring all attention to him as he looked up from his computer screen. "Let's say Matt is in the Digital World. How was he able to by pass the monitoring program which keeps record on the Digi-Port?"
"He can't, there is no way to use a Digi-Port without us knowing it." Yolie stated with confidence in the program that they had designed.
"So what are you saying, that if he is in the Digital World we would know because the monitoring program would have told us?" Tai asked with and almost sarcastic tone.
"Not at all. I believe you're right about Matt being in the Digital World. I have done several searches worldwide and I can't find any trace of him here in the real world. But like Yolie said, there is no way for him to use the Digi-Port without us knowing it." Izzy stated.
"So maybe he did like you guys did before the Digi-Port and used his digi-vice." Davis added.
Joe shook his head in confusion before holding out his hand to silence anyone else from adding a theory. "Okay could we just start over because I think you lost me somewhere."
"Joe, you'd get lost in your own bedroom." Tai chuckled out.
Everyone laughed when Joe made a defensive face. The small show of glee lightened everyone's mood a bit.
"Basically what I'm saying Joe, is that we can rule out that he used the Digi-Port. If he is in the Digital World then he either used his digi-vice, something we haven't been able to do freely since the wars ended; or he was taken there against his will." Izzy explained.
No one spoke as they quietly considered the two possibilities.
"Hey I have an idea!" Yolie broke through the silence with a determined shout. "Why don't one of you older kids trying using your digi-vices to open the gate from here."
"That sounds like a plan. If one of use can open the gate then it means Matt can open the gate." Joe stated though his tone showed no real interest in the idea.
"Okay, I guess I'll give it a try." Tai announced.
Slowly the young soccer player stood from the damp ground. He looked down at his blue shorts and frowned before brushing off the moist blades of grass from the cotton fabric. Once his legs were loose and stretched he began to think of exactly how he was going to attempt to open the gate. Going over all the other times the group had used their digi-vices he discovered one definite fact about the process; none of them had any control over the small devices. Every time the gate had opened without a digi-port it was a whim. Totally unexpected and completely uncontrollable, but still the stress of the situation enable Tai the will to try anything no matter how unreasonable the idea was.
Slowly with a sigh the brunette reached for his digi-vice, which was latched to the black belt fashioned securely around his fairly thin waist. The metallic instrument glistened in the sunlight that made it passed the canopy of leaves. When the teen held the device a sense of pride filled his being. Pride from all he had accomplished as a Digidestined; but there was also fear. Fear that this idea wouldn't work, thus proving that his best friend had not left this world willingly, but was taken and could now be in pain or even dying.
"Okay here it goes!" Tai announced as he thrust his hand into the air extending his arm to its full length as he took in a deep breath. He caught the air in his lungs and concentrated on his task. Once he felt his mind had focused on his mission he let out a commanding, "Digi-Port open!"
The shout broke the silence in the park, sending the birds resting in the trees into the sky. All the other Digidestined waited and watched as Tai still held his arm out. Soon the unexpected brake of the silence faded back into the sickening stillness. The other Digidestined watched as the strain left their leaders face and was replaced with defeat, a look rarely found on Taichi Kamiya's features.
Tai lowered his arm and cast his eyes to the freshly cutgrass. His cocoa colored eyes began to glisten with unshed tears as his mind finally processed what his unsuccessful attempt to open the gate meant.
"It was a long shot anyway…" Yolie mumbled.
"Yeah a long shot," TK agreed as he began to grip the rootless blades of grass in his sweaty palms. "A long shot…" he repeated to himself as he fought back the tears that were threatening to fall once more.
Everyone sunk into their own depression and defeat as they thought of all the possibilities for their missing friend. He could be hurt, dying, or even dead; and now none of them would ever find out; or at least that was how they all felt.
The sound of a high pitch beep brought everyone's attention back to the standing brunette.
Tai's digi-vice was going crazy, glowing, vibrating, and making a sharp beep that was so loud the others had to hold their hands over their ears.
Tai was dumbfounded; his eyebrows twisted up in bafflement as his confused brown eyes searched the white metallic device for some short of explanation for its strange actions. Then almost as though it had sensed its owner's bewilderment and concern the digi-vice stopped beeping; soon after that the vibration stop followed quickly by the flashing lights.
Everything was quiet once more. The group of misfit teens locked at their unspoken leader in confusion, but Tai's attention was on anything but his fellow Digidestined. His mouth hung open slightly in shock and his noise had curled in an almost disgusted way.
'That's it?… you give me a fancy light show and a splitting head ache from that stupid noise and still you can't help me?!' Tai's annoyance and anger was now boiling into a fiery rage. He silently cursed his digi-vice then he tightened his grip on the small device. "Give me back my best friend you worthless…!"
Tai's insults were cut short by another blinding light. His Digivice screeched once more as light, so bright that the children had to shut their eyes, rayed from the metallic instrument. Tai closed his eyes in an attempt to block out the blinding rays. Once he was certain that the light had faded he opened his eyes once more.
At first his vision was fuzzy and it was difficult for him to disguise objects from other objects. He blinked a couple of times allowing his strained eyes to readjust to the dim atmosphere of the park.
"That was strange," he spoke within a heavy sigh.
"Gennia!"
Tai's eyes immediately shot up at Izzy's exclamation.
"Hello everyone," Gennia greeted softly as he offered the group a small smile.
Tai shook his head in confusion then looked back at the group's mentor. "Did my digi-vice bring you here?" he asked with a small since of hope. If his digi-vice could bring the digital man to the real world then there was nothing to say that Matt couldn't send himself to the Digital World.
"Yes, I was hoping one of you would be activating the gate so that I could come speak with you." He explained as he walked closer to the group.
All the Digidestined were now standing with their digital ally, all except TK. The group greeted their father figure with bright smiles and cheerful hello's, but the young blonde refused to be a part of this small show of merriment.
After the welcomes were over Gennia singled for the group to be seated. Everyone returned to their original places without a word as Gennia took a seat in-between Izzy and Davis.
"So, I hear you've been having some trouble," the blue eyed brunette opened the conversation not bothering to go into a long speech.
"…"
The half statement half question caught the group a little off guard.
No one was certain how to respond to this, but soon the waiting became too much for the wretched Child of Hope. Out of what seemed like nowhere TK screamed in aggravation then punched the ground with all the force his fatigued body could muster. He then began to pound the ground relentlessly as he scream over and over again; "I want my brother… I want Matt!"
Kari looked at her best friend in total shock. Her soft ruby eyes widened in surprise and fear. Her concern for the blonde grew with the sound of his fist connecting with the ground, but the shock of the sight kept her to petrified to even attempt to stop him or even comfort him.
No one made a move; TK's fit had thrown all of them into stone. It was hard to see the usually calm and quiet kid beating the ground with unfathomable aggression. All of them wanted to help him, to take way some of the pain he was feeling, but they knew that he wouldn't be better until he had his brother back.
The sound of TK's fist hitting the ground began to drop a bit as his rhythm began to slow until it faded back into the silence. The group watched as the blonde's arm went limp and his shoulders dropped.
TK laid his hand on the ground softly, as his arm grew numb. He stiffened when he saw the split skin on his bloody knuckles, and his shoulders began to shake as he fell into a tearless sob. His chest hurt as he drew in sharp breaths and his head was spinning from coming off his adrenaline rush. Slowly he regained control over his breathing and soon his shoulders rose back to their normal height.
The group released the breath, which all of them had been holding during the outburst. They looked at the distressed child with sympathy and love.
A small "I'm sorry" escaped TK's lips and the group knew that the violent over protective brother had faded back into the quiet respectful Child of Hope.
"Oh TK," Kari expressed as she wrapped her short arm over the pre-teen's quivering shoulders.
Everyone remained silent for a moment; they watched the young blonde lean into the Child of Light's embrace a bit.
"Actually that is one of the things I have come to speak with all of you about."
All eyes returned to Gennia. The Digital man's cerulean eyes held remorse and sympathy as he watched the despondency, that hung over the group of guardians like a blackened mist. The depression, worry, and confusion had built up so much stress in the group that you could feel the strife and unsettlement weighing down like a physical blow constantly pounding all over the body. All the unshed tears and hidden fears were slowly surfacing and the incomplete group never felt so empty.
"But before I speak on what I know, why don't you tell me what exactly happened here."
Izzy nodded and immediately took to the roll of briefing Gennia on the attacks in the real world.
"We're still not certain on exactly what happened, we have very few details, but what we do know is that there were three attacks. One of the attacks happened on the opened streets, only a couple of blocks away from our current location. Eyewitnesses say that three ghost, matching the descriptions of the ghost that attack four years ago, began terrorizing pedestrians as they attempt to escape the creatures. Apparently the attack didn't last long since a stripped dog-lizard with a horn on his head stopped the attack and destroyed the three ghost."
"So have you determined that the dog-lizard was Gabumon?" Gennia asked wanting to not only hear the reports but also the reliable, and generally correct, theories of the young genius.
"Yes I have no doubt on that," Izzy answered confidently, "That attack isn't the one that has caused the controversy, the problem is the other attack cites. The second attack happened in an alley. A young couple was dragged into the alley by two Bakemon and beaten until they were too weak and frighten to try and run away. The girl is still in the hospital unconscious but the man released a statement to the press that worries me. He said that a teen-aged boy with blonde hair and amazing blue eyes used special powers to destroy the ghost. He then stated that the teen had to be an angel because he took away the woman's nightmares."
"And you think that the boy was Matt?" Gennia asked in shock.
He was even more shocked when he received neutral nods from the entire group including TK.
Gennia simple shock his head in disbelief as he tucked away the new information. "What about the third attack?" he finally asked as he had decided that getting all the details would be better then rushing to conclusions.
"Well the third attack is the one with the least information. There were no witnesses so we know very little about it. All we do know is that there was a very fierce battle there. Blood and broken glass is still scattered on the road in that area."
Gennia nodded once more as he considered all of this information. "It's very difficult to believe, I have no doubt that Gabumon was at one of the attacks, but how could Matt possibly fight two Bakemon?"
"We were hoping you could tell us that." TK's tiered voice radiated from his bowed head.
"Tell me, where is Matt now?" Gennia asked with a thoughtful look gleaming in his sapphire eyes.
"We don't know, he disappeared around the time of the attacks." Joe replied for the group.
"And you have no idea where he is?" the digital man questioned as he eyed each teen in the circle.
All the Digidestined shock their heads "no" then looked at the ground in shame.
"I'm afraid I don't have any knowledge on his where about's, to be honest I didn't even know he was missing. Have you searched this world for him?"
"Yes, I've done several scans over this world and have found no trace of his digi-vice's single." Izzy answered matter-of-factly.
Gennia was silent.
The group of teens didn't dare brake the new silence, they simply sat, heads still down and minds still racing with unanswered questions. Soon the silence from the group seemed to grow thicker and the sounds of the park took over. Leafs rattled as the wind pushed them about on their branches. The light began to shift as the sun rose higher in the sky, chasing away the chill of the morning and replacing it with the heat more commonly found in the city.
"I'm afraid I have no answer for you," Gennia began after he had thought all the facts and theories threw. He took each piece of the events which had transpired in both the Digital World and the real world and tried his best to find some sort of connection. Some sort of explanation that fit all of the information, but his rational mind could find no common ground between the strange attacks and the events in the Digital World. "But I can do what I intended to do and that is inform you of all that has happened in the Digi-World over the past twenty-four hours."
"Right now we'll take anything we can get." Tai stated flatly.
"Well this is what I know so far, Deamon has grown in power and his armies have grown in numbers. It seems that he has not made a move yet, but my sources tell me that this is simply because he is planing to make his first move big, real big. His armies have been training and all of them are aggressive creatures. If Deamon does attack I know for certain you will not win without all of you together. That is why it is imperative that we find the Child of Friendship." Gennia's voice grew horse and his words seemed more forced towards the end of his speech. The sign of fear on the mentor's part only added to the teen's feelings of hopelessness.
"Well what can you tell us about the Lord of the Nightmare Soldiers?" Tai asked curiously, as he wondered why the man hadn't brought up the subject yet.
Gennia sighed as though to say I was afraid you'd ask that. "Frankly there really isn't much to say other then, there is either a new Lord of the South, or there is not."
The vague explanation earned Gennia some confused glance and some annoyed glares.
"Smoke no longer rises from Zhuqiaomon's volcano," Gennia began to explain, "which means that the candidate's test are over, but there has been no announcement on whether or not he or she passed."
"Well that's just great," Yolie snapped with anger, "Now we don't even know if we have two enemies or not!" she shouted as her irritation grew.
"Calm down Yolie." Sora ordered from her place across from the violet hair girl.
"Don't worry, we will know when Deamon makes a move, that beast can't do anything without a show, so we can prepare for his possible attack. And as for the new Lord," Gennia stopped in the mid of his speech as he thought of exactly how to word his plane, "As for this new Lord, we will wait and see his intentions. If he failed the test then I will take care of the South while they are weak and leaderless, and I will do it in my own way. But if they do have a new Lord then we will see how he planes to lead his people. If there is any signs of corruption in him then we will attack the Nightmare Soldiers before they have the time to regain order."
This plane seemed to work in the Digidestined's minds. At least it was progress and a fairly simple plane, wait, watch, and then destroy if necessary. Simple, easy, too easy.
"But what about Matt?" TK asked once the new plane had settled in his mind.
"Keep an eye out for him, and I'll search the Digital World and see what I can find." Gennia explained with an almost sly smile. "If Deamon or this new Lord has anything to do with his disappearance then their necks will brake for it!" was the last threat before the discussion fell into general briefing.
Nothing was determined besides a threat; a threat made with good intention, but would only cause more pain in the end.
~*~*~
~*Important*~
Okay my important message is that over the downtime I have completely lost interest in this fic. I know that I probably just need to get back into the swing of things, but right now I am swamped with stuff and this seems to be the most trifle thing in my life. So this is were you, the reader, come in; if you would like me to continue this then please give me some sort of feedback saying so. I'll take e-mails and IM's but I prefer reviews, saves me time. So I'm not saying that I'm going to quite this, what I'm saying is that I want to make sure I still have some readers out there before I put the time and effort into another chapter. So if you want more of this fic then please review, and also try to tell me what you thought of this last chapter. I take all criticism into consideration and try to use it to improve my writing.
Well, enough of me for tonight. Thanks for reading, bye, bye.