Chosen... in the Dark
Disclaimer: I do not, but wish to own digimon. Bandai and Toei Animation do. All I own are Akuji (myself) and Succubamon (BlackTailmon's made up ultimate form).
Joyful Sorrow
Just a little while ago my digimon told me some things I wish I never heard, things so unexplainable, so evil, that I find it almost impossible to have happened, yet it did. Succubamon just told me why she had been avoiding me since we came back to the Digiworld, and I wish I never heard it. I didn't take the news too well either. I told her that she should just forget about me and leave and I walked off, but it seems that my digimon will not leave me in the state I'm in. I've never felt so guilty in my life. But now she says she has some thing to tell me, but I didn't understand what she was trying to say. Bewildered, I look at her. "I don't get it..." "Aku-chan... please try to understand... I care for you too much to let something like Vamdemon's mind control come between us..." "What are you saying...?" "Akuji, I..." She hesitated. Sighing and closing her eyes, she came out with it. "Shikimitsu Akuji... I love you." I blinked in disbelief. What?! was all that could come to my mind. "Succubamon...?" She stared straight in my face and continued. "Akuji, I love you and I wouldn't stand with any other." That was just a minute ago. I'm still reeling with the statement my digimon just gave me. What a show of emotion... especially at a time like this. Right now I don't know what to feel. First I feel that she hates me for what I've done and wants me dead. Of course I was always told I was quick to draw conclusions. Next she tells me that she loves me! I can't process all of this... not now... My friends, the Chosen are probably in trouble, LadyDevimon is gone and I didn't get to talk to her yet, and... and I have a headache... "Aku-chan?" That's her, holding on to my shoulder and looking at me with her crimson eyes. I must look ridiculous to her right now, sitting on the floor where I slumped down with my jaw hanging. I managed to close back my mouth. "Y-yes... I'm, fine... I just never expected you to tell me that... I mean after all I did, you should hate me... but you don't..." "Well, that's the way I feel," she told me plainly. "I don't know what to say..." "My heart is yours, Aku-chan, don't push it away..." she griped, her voice wavering slightly. "What more proof of my affections do you need?" I frown a bit. "It's not that I don't believe you, because I do. Really! It's just that, why do you want me? There must be plenty of digimon who would want your heart, so why do you give it to me?" She hung her head a little. "No digimon wants a virus as a girlfriend, Aku- chan. And I don't want a virus for a boyfriend. And I don't even want to deal with the other two types who can't see me for what I really am. Only you do... that's why I admire you." I look at her astonished and look to the ground again, this time massaging my temples. This is really too much to process. "You don't have to think about it now. Right now, I think we should look for the others. They have no doubt gone and found Piemon already and fighting him without us, so lets go help them." "Okay," I replied. "I think we should go straight to Piemon's castle, if they went after him. It should be at the top of Spiral Mountain." "Let's go!"
* * * We're soaring through the air. Okay, my digimon is doing the soaring, I'm just holding on to her for dear life. I still haven't gotten used to the flying, as you can tell because I don't choose to be a flying digimon often. She was obviously enjoying it though. Whether it was because she got to carry me in her arms or simply that she loves to fly is beyond me, but we were finally getting close to our destination. The peak of Spiral Mountain had come into view and Succubamon banked upwards so we could come into the court of Piemon castle. It looked like most of what was holding the mountain up was gone; there was only one swirl of landmass going up to the top, probably the one we were on a while ago. Maybe when we defeated each of the Dark Masters, but I could never know for sure. As I nestled myself closer to Succubamon's body and closed my eyes tighter, she smiled... until something caught her eye. "Akuji! Look!" I opened my eyes and turned to where she was ushering me. "Angemon is down and it looks like Piemon is chasing Takeru and Hikari up some kind of rope!" "We have to save them!" "But we're too far, and I'm already going as fast as I can." "Well, keep going! We have to help!"
* * * "Hikari! You have to keep climbing!" Takeru shouted to the young chestnut haired girl. She continued to do so until a sword cut her efforts short, the rope being cut from above her. She screamed out, but for some reason, the two of them were not falling. The rope just stayed there. Then the fiend trying to get the two kids appeared below the two of them and started pulling Takeru's leg. "Leave him alone!" she screamed. "Forget about me, Hikari and keep climbing!" Takeru shouted back. "Sounds like you two are falling for each other," Piemon cackled, cutting the rope as he flew backwards and they fell. The two screamed as they fell and a downed Angemon struggled to get up from way below. After many failed attempts, he was able to balance himself on his staff. He repeatedly called after Takeru as he fell. Meanwhile, still a ways off... "Succubamon! They're falling! Can't you do anything?" I ask desperately. "They're still too far, Akuji," she replied sadly. "I'm sorry, but I can't help them... hold on a sec..." I look and we pause as we see some kind of light emitting from Takeru's direction. It got bright and a second glow from the ground in far ahead of us started to glow the same colour as the light from Takeru. "What is it?" I ask. "It looks like Takeru's crest!" she replied, rather excitedly. "I think that Angemon is finally going to evolve!" And that's exactly what he did. The symbol of Hibou * glowed and spun slowly in the air before becoming encased in its Tag and Crest. A light shot out of Takeru's Digivice and passed through the crest and spiraled into the air, raining radiant white light down on Angemon who was now standing strongly. "Angemon shou shinka... HolyAngemon!" The newly accustomed perfection digimon flew to his falling partner and his friend and snatched them out of the air delicately, giving them an ensuring smile. "Angemon!" Takeru beamed. "I knew you could evolve!" HolyAngemon set them down on the balcony. DIGIMON ANALYZER ON HolyAngemon: I am HolyAngemon. Along with my new armor, I have eight shiny wings. I wield the mighty sword Excalibur and poise the devastating attack Heaven's Gate. DIGIMON ANALYZER OFF "Trump Sword!" Piemon snarled, launching his swords at the angel digimon. "Excalibur!" HolyAngemon took the legendary sword and swatted Piemon's attack to the side. "Looks like my sword trumps yours!" Piemon, growling, took his magical sheet and threw it at the angel. "Chew on this!" "I'm not hungry," he replied, slicing through the material and striking Piemon, sending him falling, screaming and crashing to the balcony below. He also managed to take the key chains in the same motion. "But, I will take these." Takeru and Hikari watched as Piemon crashed in a cloud of dust and turned to see HolyAngemon placing the key chains on a rock. He then crossed his arms. "Now to set free our friends. Holy Disinfection!" A rainbow coloured beam shot out from his upper four wings and engulfed the keys with its light. Soon enough all that were once encased in Piemon's magic were now not, and returned to normal. The two youngest were greeted with a series of 'whoas' from the group. "Funny..." Tai mused, "but I had the strangest urge to carry keys..." Takeru ran up to his brother who greeted him with a hug. "All right, Takeru! You did it!" "Thanks to you," Takeru replied cheerily. "If it wasn't for your advice, Angemon wouldn't have evolved and we would have lost!" Yamato's smile turned into a look of bewilderment. They were interrupted by Tentomon. "Angemon! Since when could you evolve?" he asked cheerfully. "Turn around! Let me see you!" "Very well." HolyAngemon turned around until his wings swatted the red beetle. He yelped as he fell to the ground. Piemon chuckled evilly. "You Chosen aren't the only ones with friends you know!" DIGMON ANALYZER ON Piemon: Meet Vilemon. DIGIMON ANALYZER OFF "All right guys, let's fight!" Tai cheered. "We are still low in our numbers..." Izumi reasoned. "Don't forget us!" a voice called from what didn't seem to be too far. Everyone turned around to where the voice came from and saw a whole herd of friends heading their way. "Mimi!" Tai exclaimed. "And there's Sora!" "Pummel Whack!" Ogremon deleted a Vilemon with an attack. "Nice swing, I think I better work on my slice," he entertained.
* * * "Akuji... what's wrong?" my digimon asked, setting me down on the farthest side of the balcony, away from the others. "I can't fight him..." "What? But, he's evil..." she reasoned. "I know... I just can't..." "Well, I have to help!" She started to fly off. "Be careful!" I called after her.
* * * Poor WarGreymon and MetalGarurumon! They have fallen victim to Piemon's magic sheet and have been struggling with it for the past while now. Unfortunately for them, the perfects were busy trying to ward off all the Vilemon thrown at them. They were not prepared for a swarm, yet that is exactly what had happened to them. There were so much Vilemon that they clearly outnumbered the forces of good and now some were advancing on the children. If something weren't done soon, they would get them. Piemon laughed at the site. Two ultimates fighting with a mere sheet, and six other perfects afraid to cut loose in fear of damaging a partner, clearly amusing to Piemon. "Excuse me, but this party has become a bore, so I'm afraid that you will have to be removed from it!" Piemon sneered. He cackled. The Vilemon advanced. All was looking lost... until... "Seductive Wing!" Piemon turned around to a flurry of bats with an incredulous force behind them, which hit and sent him flying backwards. Everyone looked in the direction Piemon crashed to see who it was that hit him so powerfully. They were both shocked and fearful at what they saw. It was Vamdemon! Well, sort of... the thing was, he was a female. "Who...?" Taichi stuttered. DIGIMON ANALYZER ON Succubamon: I am Succubamon. As the undead queen, I can claim invincibility by night, as my powers of Darkness are tremendous. Although I may look like my male counterpart, Vamdemon, I have a tolerance to the sun and am trouble for my enemies any time of day. My ultimate attack is Midnight Crush; when I use it on you, it's not because I like you, it's because you are my enemy. DIGIMON ANALYZER OFF "S-Succubamon...!" Sora managed, breathlessly. Succubamon sweat dropped. "Remarkable!" Izumi stated. "She looks exactly like Vamdemon!" "Please," Succubamon interrupted, sweat dropping some more, "please don't mix me up with that monster... I rather not be compared to him..." "Funny," Piemon interrupted her, "but my Vamdemon is the one who gave you your powers in the first place! Trumps Sword!" Succubamon was able to dodge it by spinning to the side, and delivered an attack of her own. "Venom Smash!" She formed energy in the apex of her cupped hands and fired it in Piemon's direction. He held up a sheet, which absorbed the attack. He threw more swords that she was able to dodge and fending off others with more Soul Fists. Neither broke any ground as they seemed to be equally matched. But seeing the experience Piemon had behind him, it was only a matter of her making a mistake... "Dark Upper!" Succubamon formed a blade with her hand and attacked him with a bladed flying uppercut. It was Piemon's turn to dodge. He used one of his trump swords to block her efforts at his life, and grabbed her by the neck on the way down. He squeezed and brought her down to his eye level, grinning cunningly. "Seems to me like you're a bit held up at the moment. I can tell that you are new to the ultimate thing. No matter... it's not like I'm giving you time to get used to it. You will have plenty of time to adjust... after you're reformatted!" His grip on her neck closed firmly, causing her to cry out in desperation, while the children were screaming at him. Suddenly, Succubamon's life started flashing before her eyes. It was then she realized that she wasn't really up to fighting today. She was not really up to competing against the last and most experienced ultimate Dark Master. She was not walking away from this fight...
~*Flashbacks*~ Nyaromon sat in a tree in the forest on the outskirts of Primary Village. She had just finished talking to Elecmon who had completed gathering food for the baby digimon he nursed. He had asked her what she was waiting for and why she was still there waiting. For the past year, he had seen her in that spot just sitting, watching, waiting. She couldn't explain to him what or who she was waiting for, just that she had to wait for it. He tried on numerous attempts to get her from the spot, even when winter had bit the land with its harshness and she sat in the same spot, but he was unable to move her. All he could do was leave a blanket with her in hopes that she could gather some warmth with it, if she decided to use it. Which she did not. All the cold of the winter, the rain of the spring or the heat of the summer could move her. She would wait; she had to wait. The breeze picked up and spread its coolness in Nyaromon's direction. Finally, for once, she took the opportunity to enjoy what it offered her. She sighed. "I've been waiting an awfully long time," she mused sorrowfully. "I wonder if what I'm waiting for will ever get here. What I'm waiting for must be a lot better than what Vamdemon has to offer me... but he did head for that other world... I wonder what that was about?" She had changed from her adult form to her infant form in hopes that, if Vamdemon came looking for her, like she was sure he would, he would not recognize her like that. With all that he had done to her, and what Devimon had done to her, she was amazed that she was still alive. With this all on her mind, saw was hardly able to notice the effects in the sky, and something falling from it. She jumped out of the tree happily and bounced up and down excitedly on the forest floor, not taking her eyes off the falling object. "It's here! It's here! What I was waiting for is finally here!" What was falling got twisted up in the tree limbs on the way down and landed a while off from Nyaromon. She approached cautiously as she observed what she awaited. It looked like some kind of humanoid digimon. Then she remembered something. "Wait... I remember when I was still a digiegg... someone saying something about digimon having human partners...? Could I be one of these digimon...? Could this be my human partner?" She then remembered the thing that was left with her digiegg. She pulled it out. "I think this is what was called a Digivice..." Her face lit up. "Then it's true! This is my human partner!" Just then the human started to stir. She bounced around gleefully as his eyes started to slowly open. He woke and sat up, looking around and rubbing his head. "Wow... where am I?" "The Digiworld!" she happily replied. "The Digiworld, eh?" He then paused and looked at what just spoke to him. He jumped back a little. "Nani! Who are you?" he slightly shouted, surprised. She grinned at him. "My name is Nyaromon. I'm a digimon and your partner! What's your name?" "Akuji... I think..." he replied shakily, rubbing his head still. "But, just what are you?" "I'm a digimon, which is short for digital monster, and I've been waiting forever for you!" "For me?"
~ ~ ~ "CANNON BALL!!!" KER-SPLASH!! Ahh... now this is the life, Akuji thought. You know, I really needed this bit of relaxation. I mean... it's like I'm always on guard or running for my life. Ahh, but today... today is turning out to be purr-fect. No Vamdemon. No other kids chasing me. Yep, today looks like it's going to be pretty-Uh oh! He bumps into something while doing the back float. He turns around to find a wet looking black something looking back at him. "AHHHHHH!!!!" He executes a swift spinning heel kick to it, that was sure to behead it... that is if it wasn't lightning fast, and sluggish like most humans he knew. "AHHHHHH!!!!" he screamed again. He ran as fast as he could- well as fast as one is able-through the water, gracelessly scrambling for cover. A childish giggle came out of the thing. "Akuji-chan! Relax!" "AHHHHHH!!! It even knows my name!!!" By this time the thing was in a fit of laughter, clearly enjoying itself. "Akuji-chan. There's no need to be afraid of li'l ol' me." It giggled again. After his mad dash for shore, and being to tired out to grab his clothing and get the hoo hah out of there, he decided to turn and find out who his assailant was. His eyes widened with shock. There she was, tail high in air, covering her mouth, attempting to muzzle her giggles. "BlackTailmon?! You baka! What're you trying to do, gimme a heart attack or something?!?" Her laughter came out again. "What took you so long?" She asked coyly. He paused. Well that would explain why she wasn't behind me when we were racing here. He sighs. This is the way it always goes. I never win. But how does she do- "Hey! How do you do that?" She giggles some more. "My secret." She grinned as he frowned. "Maybe I'll show you someday. Now you can answer my question. What is a cannon ball? Is that an attack?"
~ ~ ~ There he lay. In the middle of the park. He is greeted by the sounds of birds chirping, the scent of the flowers, the fresh city air (if you don't mind getting all your minerals in one breath, [coughs]) and the city noises. I'm home. I can't believe it. I been in the Digiworld so long, I almost forgotten what I should expect home to be like. I must show BlackTailmon-Oh no! He franticly looks around. "BLACKTAILMON!!" He gets up and franticly starts looking for her. No... no... NO! he keeps repeating to himself. "She's gone." He grimaces. Things are definitely not looking good for him. "Where is she? I'll never see her again." He sinks to the floor. Free flowing tears wash his face. The handfuls of onlookers were too inept to offer condolences. There he was lying on the ground again, only this time he was a sprinkler... watering the grass with his salty tears, face buried in my arms once more. "Black... Tailmon..." he choked, "...gone..." What? He senses someone. Wait! That presence! I've sensed it before! Could it be? "You can't get rid of me that easily, Aku-chan." He springs up. "BlackTailmon!" He exploded into a flurry of sobbing. He picked her up and snuggled her tightly. He looked in her eyes. "I thought I lost you..." He snuggled her again. "We're friends, remember? Friends are always there for each other."
~ ~ ~ He yawns. "That was a good nap. Now what time is it?" He checks his watch. One thing he noticed about the Chosen Children, they forgot to bring the most important thing... a watch. "Whoa! I've been asleep for two days? Man! I must have been really tired. But she's worth it." Suddenly there's a ruffle in the bushes further down the path. Well rested and ready for action he jumps out into the clearing. Nothing is going to stop him with the newfound energy that his little sleep gave. "Come out! I'm ready for you!" He sensed hesitation. He then realized that it could not be a hostile digimon; it could be a frightened child, or even a baby. "Come on... come on out," he says more warmly. Wait a minute... I've sensed this presence before! Into the clearing stumbled a little back digimon. This digimon was all battered and bruised; obviously it was in a big squabble with a, or a bunch of digimon. This digimon was a kitten... his kitten! "B-B-BlackTailmon...?" "Aku-chan...! I knew you would wait for me..." She collapsed.
~ ~ ~ "Vamdemon..." she muttered. It looked like she was about to break down and cry. If it weren't for the fact that he was holding her and hugging her already, he would have picked her up and squeezed her tight. "What's wrong? What did Vamdemon do to you?" "I.... I can't tell you... not yet..." He turns her to face him. "BlackTailmon... you know that I'm always here for you. If there's anything you want or need to talk about, and I mean anything, I'm always here for you, no hesitation, no complaints, 100 % attention, anytime, I'm here." She gives him a small smile and says, "Thanks, Aku-chan. And thanks... for waiting for me." "I'll always be there." Two quick changes and we're soaring the skies, me as Angemon, carrying her in my arms towards Gennai's house.
~ ~ ~ "Can you evolve? I bet you've been waiting a long time to." He smiles at her as her eyes light up. One of the things she craved the most was to be able to evolve to the next level. "Have I ever!" She all of a sudden had all the enthusiasm of a little kid on Christmas when they get the toy they always wanted. She stands impatiently as he got out his Crest and Digivice.
~ ~ ~ "Akuji-can... please try to understand... I care for you too much to let something like Vamdemon's mind control come between us..." "What are you saying...?" "Akuji, I..." She hesitated. Sighing and closing her eyes, she came out with it. "Shikimitsu Hakujin... I love you." He blinked in disbelief. What?! was all that could come to my mind. "Succubamon...?" She stared straight in my face and continued. "Akuji, I love you and I wouldn't stand with any other."
~*End of Flashbacks*~ "Noooooo!" Someone screamed. Piemon looked up from where he was evilly watching Succubamon slip away to find me charging at him with a sword drawn and brandished in the air. A smile crept to his face. "My, my. Looks as if I may have some fun after all." He threw down Succubamon and drew a single sword to face me. Succubamon was coughing and holding her neck where it was grasped. A few of the Chosen were able to retrieve her and bring her where they were stationed. Piemon now stood in front of me. "En guarde!" he ordered. "Yeah, yeah... prepare to get your ass whooped!" The sword fight began! Neither of us was gaining ground as it continued on. WarGreymon and MetalGarurumon were finally able to shred the mischievous magical sheet, but were now faced with more Vilemon than ever, and jumped into action. At one point, I was able to stumble him and took the opportunity to glance over and check on my digimon. She was still in ultimate form and doing a little better, although she was still weak. I looked back in time to block a slashing strike by Piemon. He saw a mistake and took advantage of it. You see? That's why I wouldn't make a good sword fighter. Piemon was finally able to knock the sword out of my hand. "Well, well... it looks as if I win. I believe that you no longer can fight with your weapon." "Gloat about it!" I hissed. "Fine, then. I will! I think it's time to cut you down to size!" Piemon brought his trump sword above his head, prepared to pare me in half. The sword came down... KA-CHING! ...and met up with a pair of Dramon Destroyers held up in an "X" fashion over my head. Piemon was taken back. "Well, lookie here," I toyed. "Looks like the game has just begun." Taking the opportunity of his astonishment to attack, I work my claws across his chest, shredding his clown-like tunic. He reeled back and screamed out in pain. I rushed to my digimon's side. "Succubamon! Are you all right?" "Yes, Aku-chan..." she answered me. "Thanks." "Well, let's finish him off once and for all!" Yamato declared, balling his fists. "Horn Buster!" Piemon was able to deflect AtlurKabuterimon's attack. "Holy Arrow!" He was barely able to dodge Angewomon's attack, it just missing him. "Wing Blade!" He is hit dead on with Garudamon's attack. He is sent flying and crashes to the ground. When he gets up, he is confronted by two ultimate digimon. "Remember us?" WarGreymon asked. Piemon swallowed hard. "Garuru Tomahawk!" "Gaia Force!" "Heaven's Gate!" "Midnight Crush!" Succubamon put all the energy she had left into her attack, collapsing after sending it. The first two attacks flattened Piemon while the gate of destiny opened up, and her attack sent him airborne. The vortex of the gate finally kicked in, pulling all the Vilemon in the area in and finally Piemon himself... but the gate remained open for some reason. I turn back to Succubamon to find her slowly starting to float skywards. "No!" I scream. "Succubamon! You're not leaving me again!" I tried to hold her down as I turn to HolyAngemon. "HolyAngemon! Isn't there anything you can do?" "I'm sorry, but the gate closes on its own after all the evil has been taken away from the area..." "But she's not evil!" I interrupt, teary eyed. "It's not fair!" I turn back to my companion. I watch sadly as her eyes open partly. "Succubamon..." I start. "About earlier..." "I know," she said weakly. "It was too much at the time. And don't worry... you will always mean everything to me." She started to float up with me hanging onto her. "No wait...! I just wanted to tell you... I wanted to let you know that... I... I love you too... but I don't want you to leave, not again..." "I'll be back... just like last time..." "But we need you...I need you... I'm not going to let you leave me!" I stated, getting angry. We were almost at the gate now. The Chosen are screaming at me to let go. Birdramon has just taken off to come and retrieve me. I still hang on to her. She sees Birdramon coming as well. "Succubamon... kudasai..." I cry, tear stricken. She looks at me with her warm crimson eyes. She gives me a weak but warm, ensuring smile. "Gomen ne," she said. "Mid... mid... night... Cr-crush...!" Some sort of force field surrounded her repelling me backwards to the awaiting Birdramon. I scramble to stand and look up to see Succubamon pass through the gate and it close behind her. I slump onto Birdramon's back as she flies me back down to the rest of Chosen, who had and could find nothing to say to me. I was too busy bathing in misery to hear the email that Gennai sent Izumi. Something about another evil or master evil or something. I do not care; I have just lost my partner... my companion... my digimon... the one I love... I don't know what to do. I don't know if I can even move, continue. But, right now my self-pity will have to wait, because the place is shaking like some kind of earthquake; the mountain is no longer there. We are falling; the ultimate test awaits.
Chibi-Akuji: Almost done! ^_^ For sake of a shorter story, I'm going to skip the whole Apocalymon series and go straight to the end. The next chapter will be the last, the epilogue. So basically, just add in the Apocalymon storyline between this and next chapter... including a saddened, distraught, digimonless Akuji of course. ^_^ Chibi-Sora: I know what happens next chapter! Chibi-Akuji: [covers Sora's mouth] Shush! Don't give it away! [turns to audience, clears throat] Like I was saying, as you all well know, after the defeat of Apocalymon, the Chosen have to go home without their digimon, right? So, how will Akuji take it? Chibi-Mimi: And what happens with BlackTailmon? Chibi-Hikari: And how can the rest of us console Akuji? Chibi-Miyako: [plainly] Carefully. [Receives strange stares] What. Chibi-Akuji: [shakes head] Anyways, thanks to those who actually stuck with, or even read this fic, it being my first and leading story, and I hope you will stick with me and enjoy the other fics I can provide for you. Be seeing ya! ^_^
Disclaimer: I do not, but wish to own digimon. Bandai and Toei Animation do. All I own are Akuji (myself) and Succubamon (BlackTailmon's made up ultimate form).
Joyful Sorrow
Just a little while ago my digimon told me some things I wish I never heard, things so unexplainable, so evil, that I find it almost impossible to have happened, yet it did. Succubamon just told me why she had been avoiding me since we came back to the Digiworld, and I wish I never heard it. I didn't take the news too well either. I told her that she should just forget about me and leave and I walked off, but it seems that my digimon will not leave me in the state I'm in. I've never felt so guilty in my life. But now she says she has some thing to tell me, but I didn't understand what she was trying to say. Bewildered, I look at her. "I don't get it..." "Aku-chan... please try to understand... I care for you too much to let something like Vamdemon's mind control come between us..." "What are you saying...?" "Akuji, I..." She hesitated. Sighing and closing her eyes, she came out with it. "Shikimitsu Akuji... I love you." I blinked in disbelief. What?! was all that could come to my mind. "Succubamon...?" She stared straight in my face and continued. "Akuji, I love you and I wouldn't stand with any other." That was just a minute ago. I'm still reeling with the statement my digimon just gave me. What a show of emotion... especially at a time like this. Right now I don't know what to feel. First I feel that she hates me for what I've done and wants me dead. Of course I was always told I was quick to draw conclusions. Next she tells me that she loves me! I can't process all of this... not now... My friends, the Chosen are probably in trouble, LadyDevimon is gone and I didn't get to talk to her yet, and... and I have a headache... "Aku-chan?" That's her, holding on to my shoulder and looking at me with her crimson eyes. I must look ridiculous to her right now, sitting on the floor where I slumped down with my jaw hanging. I managed to close back my mouth. "Y-yes... I'm, fine... I just never expected you to tell me that... I mean after all I did, you should hate me... but you don't..." "Well, that's the way I feel," she told me plainly. "I don't know what to say..." "My heart is yours, Aku-chan, don't push it away..." she griped, her voice wavering slightly. "What more proof of my affections do you need?" I frown a bit. "It's not that I don't believe you, because I do. Really! It's just that, why do you want me? There must be plenty of digimon who would want your heart, so why do you give it to me?" She hung her head a little. "No digimon wants a virus as a girlfriend, Aku- chan. And I don't want a virus for a boyfriend. And I don't even want to deal with the other two types who can't see me for what I really am. Only you do... that's why I admire you." I look at her astonished and look to the ground again, this time massaging my temples. This is really too much to process. "You don't have to think about it now. Right now, I think we should look for the others. They have no doubt gone and found Piemon already and fighting him without us, so lets go help them." "Okay," I replied. "I think we should go straight to Piemon's castle, if they went after him. It should be at the top of Spiral Mountain." "Let's go!"
* * * We're soaring through the air. Okay, my digimon is doing the soaring, I'm just holding on to her for dear life. I still haven't gotten used to the flying, as you can tell because I don't choose to be a flying digimon often. She was obviously enjoying it though. Whether it was because she got to carry me in her arms or simply that she loves to fly is beyond me, but we were finally getting close to our destination. The peak of Spiral Mountain had come into view and Succubamon banked upwards so we could come into the court of Piemon castle. It looked like most of what was holding the mountain up was gone; there was only one swirl of landmass going up to the top, probably the one we were on a while ago. Maybe when we defeated each of the Dark Masters, but I could never know for sure. As I nestled myself closer to Succubamon's body and closed my eyes tighter, she smiled... until something caught her eye. "Akuji! Look!" I opened my eyes and turned to where she was ushering me. "Angemon is down and it looks like Piemon is chasing Takeru and Hikari up some kind of rope!" "We have to save them!" "But we're too far, and I'm already going as fast as I can." "Well, keep going! We have to help!"
* * * "Hikari! You have to keep climbing!" Takeru shouted to the young chestnut haired girl. She continued to do so until a sword cut her efforts short, the rope being cut from above her. She screamed out, but for some reason, the two of them were not falling. The rope just stayed there. Then the fiend trying to get the two kids appeared below the two of them and started pulling Takeru's leg. "Leave him alone!" she screamed. "Forget about me, Hikari and keep climbing!" Takeru shouted back. "Sounds like you two are falling for each other," Piemon cackled, cutting the rope as he flew backwards and they fell. The two screamed as they fell and a downed Angemon struggled to get up from way below. After many failed attempts, he was able to balance himself on his staff. He repeatedly called after Takeru as he fell. Meanwhile, still a ways off... "Succubamon! They're falling! Can't you do anything?" I ask desperately. "They're still too far, Akuji," she replied sadly. "I'm sorry, but I can't help them... hold on a sec..." I look and we pause as we see some kind of light emitting from Takeru's direction. It got bright and a second glow from the ground in far ahead of us started to glow the same colour as the light from Takeru. "What is it?" I ask. "It looks like Takeru's crest!" she replied, rather excitedly. "I think that Angemon is finally going to evolve!" And that's exactly what he did. The symbol of Hibou * glowed and spun slowly in the air before becoming encased in its Tag and Crest. A light shot out of Takeru's Digivice and passed through the crest and spiraled into the air, raining radiant white light down on Angemon who was now standing strongly. "Angemon shou shinka... HolyAngemon!" The newly accustomed perfection digimon flew to his falling partner and his friend and snatched them out of the air delicately, giving them an ensuring smile. "Angemon!" Takeru beamed. "I knew you could evolve!" HolyAngemon set them down on the balcony. DIGIMON ANALYZER ON HolyAngemon: I am HolyAngemon. Along with my new armor, I have eight shiny wings. I wield the mighty sword Excalibur and poise the devastating attack Heaven's Gate. DIGIMON ANALYZER OFF "Trump Sword!" Piemon snarled, launching his swords at the angel digimon. "Excalibur!" HolyAngemon took the legendary sword and swatted Piemon's attack to the side. "Looks like my sword trumps yours!" Piemon, growling, took his magical sheet and threw it at the angel. "Chew on this!" "I'm not hungry," he replied, slicing through the material and striking Piemon, sending him falling, screaming and crashing to the balcony below. He also managed to take the key chains in the same motion. "But, I will take these." Takeru and Hikari watched as Piemon crashed in a cloud of dust and turned to see HolyAngemon placing the key chains on a rock. He then crossed his arms. "Now to set free our friends. Holy Disinfection!" A rainbow coloured beam shot out from his upper four wings and engulfed the keys with its light. Soon enough all that were once encased in Piemon's magic were now not, and returned to normal. The two youngest were greeted with a series of 'whoas' from the group. "Funny..." Tai mused, "but I had the strangest urge to carry keys..." Takeru ran up to his brother who greeted him with a hug. "All right, Takeru! You did it!" "Thanks to you," Takeru replied cheerily. "If it wasn't for your advice, Angemon wouldn't have evolved and we would have lost!" Yamato's smile turned into a look of bewilderment. They were interrupted by Tentomon. "Angemon! Since when could you evolve?" he asked cheerfully. "Turn around! Let me see you!" "Very well." HolyAngemon turned around until his wings swatted the red beetle. He yelped as he fell to the ground. Piemon chuckled evilly. "You Chosen aren't the only ones with friends you know!" DIGMON ANALYZER ON Piemon: Meet Vilemon. DIGIMON ANALYZER OFF "All right guys, let's fight!" Tai cheered. "We are still low in our numbers..." Izumi reasoned. "Don't forget us!" a voice called from what didn't seem to be too far. Everyone turned around to where the voice came from and saw a whole herd of friends heading their way. "Mimi!" Tai exclaimed. "And there's Sora!" "Pummel Whack!" Ogremon deleted a Vilemon with an attack. "Nice swing, I think I better work on my slice," he entertained.
* * * "Akuji... what's wrong?" my digimon asked, setting me down on the farthest side of the balcony, away from the others. "I can't fight him..." "What? But, he's evil..." she reasoned. "I know... I just can't..." "Well, I have to help!" She started to fly off. "Be careful!" I called after her.
* * * Poor WarGreymon and MetalGarurumon! They have fallen victim to Piemon's magic sheet and have been struggling with it for the past while now. Unfortunately for them, the perfects were busy trying to ward off all the Vilemon thrown at them. They were not prepared for a swarm, yet that is exactly what had happened to them. There were so much Vilemon that they clearly outnumbered the forces of good and now some were advancing on the children. If something weren't done soon, they would get them. Piemon laughed at the site. Two ultimates fighting with a mere sheet, and six other perfects afraid to cut loose in fear of damaging a partner, clearly amusing to Piemon. "Excuse me, but this party has become a bore, so I'm afraid that you will have to be removed from it!" Piemon sneered. He cackled. The Vilemon advanced. All was looking lost... until... "Seductive Wing!" Piemon turned around to a flurry of bats with an incredulous force behind them, which hit and sent him flying backwards. Everyone looked in the direction Piemon crashed to see who it was that hit him so powerfully. They were both shocked and fearful at what they saw. It was Vamdemon! Well, sort of... the thing was, he was a female. "Who...?" Taichi stuttered. DIGIMON ANALYZER ON Succubamon: I am Succubamon. As the undead queen, I can claim invincibility by night, as my powers of Darkness are tremendous. Although I may look like my male counterpart, Vamdemon, I have a tolerance to the sun and am trouble for my enemies any time of day. My ultimate attack is Midnight Crush; when I use it on you, it's not because I like you, it's because you are my enemy. DIGIMON ANALYZER OFF "S-Succubamon...!" Sora managed, breathlessly. Succubamon sweat dropped. "Remarkable!" Izumi stated. "She looks exactly like Vamdemon!" "Please," Succubamon interrupted, sweat dropping some more, "please don't mix me up with that monster... I rather not be compared to him..." "Funny," Piemon interrupted her, "but my Vamdemon is the one who gave you your powers in the first place! Trumps Sword!" Succubamon was able to dodge it by spinning to the side, and delivered an attack of her own. "Venom Smash!" She formed energy in the apex of her cupped hands and fired it in Piemon's direction. He held up a sheet, which absorbed the attack. He threw more swords that she was able to dodge and fending off others with more Soul Fists. Neither broke any ground as they seemed to be equally matched. But seeing the experience Piemon had behind him, it was only a matter of her making a mistake... "Dark Upper!" Succubamon formed a blade with her hand and attacked him with a bladed flying uppercut. It was Piemon's turn to dodge. He used one of his trump swords to block her efforts at his life, and grabbed her by the neck on the way down. He squeezed and brought her down to his eye level, grinning cunningly. "Seems to me like you're a bit held up at the moment. I can tell that you are new to the ultimate thing. No matter... it's not like I'm giving you time to get used to it. You will have plenty of time to adjust... after you're reformatted!" His grip on her neck closed firmly, causing her to cry out in desperation, while the children were screaming at him. Suddenly, Succubamon's life started flashing before her eyes. It was then she realized that she wasn't really up to fighting today. She was not really up to competing against the last and most experienced ultimate Dark Master. She was not walking away from this fight...
~*Flashbacks*~ Nyaromon sat in a tree in the forest on the outskirts of Primary Village. She had just finished talking to Elecmon who had completed gathering food for the baby digimon he nursed. He had asked her what she was waiting for and why she was still there waiting. For the past year, he had seen her in that spot just sitting, watching, waiting. She couldn't explain to him what or who she was waiting for, just that she had to wait for it. He tried on numerous attempts to get her from the spot, even when winter had bit the land with its harshness and she sat in the same spot, but he was unable to move her. All he could do was leave a blanket with her in hopes that she could gather some warmth with it, if she decided to use it. Which she did not. All the cold of the winter, the rain of the spring or the heat of the summer could move her. She would wait; she had to wait. The breeze picked up and spread its coolness in Nyaromon's direction. Finally, for once, she took the opportunity to enjoy what it offered her. She sighed. "I've been waiting an awfully long time," she mused sorrowfully. "I wonder if what I'm waiting for will ever get here. What I'm waiting for must be a lot better than what Vamdemon has to offer me... but he did head for that other world... I wonder what that was about?" She had changed from her adult form to her infant form in hopes that, if Vamdemon came looking for her, like she was sure he would, he would not recognize her like that. With all that he had done to her, and what Devimon had done to her, she was amazed that she was still alive. With this all on her mind, saw was hardly able to notice the effects in the sky, and something falling from it. She jumped out of the tree happily and bounced up and down excitedly on the forest floor, not taking her eyes off the falling object. "It's here! It's here! What I was waiting for is finally here!" What was falling got twisted up in the tree limbs on the way down and landed a while off from Nyaromon. She approached cautiously as she observed what she awaited. It looked like some kind of humanoid digimon. Then she remembered something. "Wait... I remember when I was still a digiegg... someone saying something about digimon having human partners...? Could I be one of these digimon...? Could this be my human partner?" She then remembered the thing that was left with her digiegg. She pulled it out. "I think this is what was called a Digivice..." Her face lit up. "Then it's true! This is my human partner!" Just then the human started to stir. She bounced around gleefully as his eyes started to slowly open. He woke and sat up, looking around and rubbing his head. "Wow... where am I?" "The Digiworld!" she happily replied. "The Digiworld, eh?" He then paused and looked at what just spoke to him. He jumped back a little. "Nani! Who are you?" he slightly shouted, surprised. She grinned at him. "My name is Nyaromon. I'm a digimon and your partner! What's your name?" "Akuji... I think..." he replied shakily, rubbing his head still. "But, just what are you?" "I'm a digimon, which is short for digital monster, and I've been waiting forever for you!" "For me?"
~ ~ ~ "CANNON BALL!!!" KER-SPLASH!! Ahh... now this is the life, Akuji thought. You know, I really needed this bit of relaxation. I mean... it's like I'm always on guard or running for my life. Ahh, but today... today is turning out to be purr-fect. No Vamdemon. No other kids chasing me. Yep, today looks like it's going to be pretty-Uh oh! He bumps into something while doing the back float. He turns around to find a wet looking black something looking back at him. "AHHHHHH!!!!" He executes a swift spinning heel kick to it, that was sure to behead it... that is if it wasn't lightning fast, and sluggish like most humans he knew. "AHHHHHH!!!!" he screamed again. He ran as fast as he could- well as fast as one is able-through the water, gracelessly scrambling for cover. A childish giggle came out of the thing. "Akuji-chan! Relax!" "AHHHHHH!!! It even knows my name!!!" By this time the thing was in a fit of laughter, clearly enjoying itself. "Akuji-chan. There's no need to be afraid of li'l ol' me." It giggled again. After his mad dash for shore, and being to tired out to grab his clothing and get the hoo hah out of there, he decided to turn and find out who his assailant was. His eyes widened with shock. There she was, tail high in air, covering her mouth, attempting to muzzle her giggles. "BlackTailmon?! You baka! What're you trying to do, gimme a heart attack or something?!?" Her laughter came out again. "What took you so long?" She asked coyly. He paused. Well that would explain why she wasn't behind me when we were racing here. He sighs. This is the way it always goes. I never win. But how does she do- "Hey! How do you do that?" She giggles some more. "My secret." She grinned as he frowned. "Maybe I'll show you someday. Now you can answer my question. What is a cannon ball? Is that an attack?"
~ ~ ~ There he lay. In the middle of the park. He is greeted by the sounds of birds chirping, the scent of the flowers, the fresh city air (if you don't mind getting all your minerals in one breath, [coughs]) and the city noises. I'm home. I can't believe it. I been in the Digiworld so long, I almost forgotten what I should expect home to be like. I must show BlackTailmon-Oh no! He franticly looks around. "BLACKTAILMON!!" He gets up and franticly starts looking for her. No... no... NO! he keeps repeating to himself. "She's gone." He grimaces. Things are definitely not looking good for him. "Where is she? I'll never see her again." He sinks to the floor. Free flowing tears wash his face. The handfuls of onlookers were too inept to offer condolences. There he was lying on the ground again, only this time he was a sprinkler... watering the grass with his salty tears, face buried in my arms once more. "Black... Tailmon..." he choked, "...gone..." What? He senses someone. Wait! That presence! I've sensed it before! Could it be? "You can't get rid of me that easily, Aku-chan." He springs up. "BlackTailmon!" He exploded into a flurry of sobbing. He picked her up and snuggled her tightly. He looked in her eyes. "I thought I lost you..." He snuggled her again. "We're friends, remember? Friends are always there for each other."
~ ~ ~ He yawns. "That was a good nap. Now what time is it?" He checks his watch. One thing he noticed about the Chosen Children, they forgot to bring the most important thing... a watch. "Whoa! I've been asleep for two days? Man! I must have been really tired. But she's worth it." Suddenly there's a ruffle in the bushes further down the path. Well rested and ready for action he jumps out into the clearing. Nothing is going to stop him with the newfound energy that his little sleep gave. "Come out! I'm ready for you!" He sensed hesitation. He then realized that it could not be a hostile digimon; it could be a frightened child, or even a baby. "Come on... come on out," he says more warmly. Wait a minute... I've sensed this presence before! Into the clearing stumbled a little back digimon. This digimon was all battered and bruised; obviously it was in a big squabble with a, or a bunch of digimon. This digimon was a kitten... his kitten! "B-B-BlackTailmon...?" "Aku-chan...! I knew you would wait for me..." She collapsed.
~ ~ ~ "Vamdemon..." she muttered. It looked like she was about to break down and cry. If it weren't for the fact that he was holding her and hugging her already, he would have picked her up and squeezed her tight. "What's wrong? What did Vamdemon do to you?" "I.... I can't tell you... not yet..." He turns her to face him. "BlackTailmon... you know that I'm always here for you. If there's anything you want or need to talk about, and I mean anything, I'm always here for you, no hesitation, no complaints, 100 % attention, anytime, I'm here." She gives him a small smile and says, "Thanks, Aku-chan. And thanks... for waiting for me." "I'll always be there." Two quick changes and we're soaring the skies, me as Angemon, carrying her in my arms towards Gennai's house.
~ ~ ~ "Can you evolve? I bet you've been waiting a long time to." He smiles at her as her eyes light up. One of the things she craved the most was to be able to evolve to the next level. "Have I ever!" She all of a sudden had all the enthusiasm of a little kid on Christmas when they get the toy they always wanted. She stands impatiently as he got out his Crest and Digivice.
~ ~ ~ "Akuji-can... please try to understand... I care for you too much to let something like Vamdemon's mind control come between us..." "What are you saying...?" "Akuji, I..." She hesitated. Sighing and closing her eyes, she came out with it. "Shikimitsu Hakujin... I love you." He blinked in disbelief. What?! was all that could come to my mind. "Succubamon...?" She stared straight in my face and continued. "Akuji, I love you and I wouldn't stand with any other."
~*End of Flashbacks*~ "Noooooo!" Someone screamed. Piemon looked up from where he was evilly watching Succubamon slip away to find me charging at him with a sword drawn and brandished in the air. A smile crept to his face. "My, my. Looks as if I may have some fun after all." He threw down Succubamon and drew a single sword to face me. Succubamon was coughing and holding her neck where it was grasped. A few of the Chosen were able to retrieve her and bring her where they were stationed. Piemon now stood in front of me. "En guarde!" he ordered. "Yeah, yeah... prepare to get your ass whooped!" The sword fight began! Neither of us was gaining ground as it continued on. WarGreymon and MetalGarurumon were finally able to shred the mischievous magical sheet, but were now faced with more Vilemon than ever, and jumped into action. At one point, I was able to stumble him and took the opportunity to glance over and check on my digimon. She was still in ultimate form and doing a little better, although she was still weak. I looked back in time to block a slashing strike by Piemon. He saw a mistake and took advantage of it. You see? That's why I wouldn't make a good sword fighter. Piemon was finally able to knock the sword out of my hand. "Well, well... it looks as if I win. I believe that you no longer can fight with your weapon." "Gloat about it!" I hissed. "Fine, then. I will! I think it's time to cut you down to size!" Piemon brought his trump sword above his head, prepared to pare me in half. The sword came down... KA-CHING! ...and met up with a pair of Dramon Destroyers held up in an "X" fashion over my head. Piemon was taken back. "Well, lookie here," I toyed. "Looks like the game has just begun." Taking the opportunity of his astonishment to attack, I work my claws across his chest, shredding his clown-like tunic. He reeled back and screamed out in pain. I rushed to my digimon's side. "Succubamon! Are you all right?" "Yes, Aku-chan..." she answered me. "Thanks." "Well, let's finish him off once and for all!" Yamato declared, balling his fists. "Horn Buster!" Piemon was able to deflect AtlurKabuterimon's attack. "Holy Arrow!" He was barely able to dodge Angewomon's attack, it just missing him. "Wing Blade!" He is hit dead on with Garudamon's attack. He is sent flying and crashes to the ground. When he gets up, he is confronted by two ultimate digimon. "Remember us?" WarGreymon asked. Piemon swallowed hard. "Garuru Tomahawk!" "Gaia Force!" "Heaven's Gate!" "Midnight Crush!" Succubamon put all the energy she had left into her attack, collapsing after sending it. The first two attacks flattened Piemon while the gate of destiny opened up, and her attack sent him airborne. The vortex of the gate finally kicked in, pulling all the Vilemon in the area in and finally Piemon himself... but the gate remained open for some reason. I turn back to Succubamon to find her slowly starting to float skywards. "No!" I scream. "Succubamon! You're not leaving me again!" I tried to hold her down as I turn to HolyAngemon. "HolyAngemon! Isn't there anything you can do?" "I'm sorry, but the gate closes on its own after all the evil has been taken away from the area..." "But she's not evil!" I interrupt, teary eyed. "It's not fair!" I turn back to my companion. I watch sadly as her eyes open partly. "Succubamon..." I start. "About earlier..." "I know," she said weakly. "It was too much at the time. And don't worry... you will always mean everything to me." She started to float up with me hanging onto her. "No wait...! I just wanted to tell you... I wanted to let you know that... I... I love you too... but I don't want you to leave, not again..." "I'll be back... just like last time..." "But we need you...I need you... I'm not going to let you leave me!" I stated, getting angry. We were almost at the gate now. The Chosen are screaming at me to let go. Birdramon has just taken off to come and retrieve me. I still hang on to her. She sees Birdramon coming as well. "Succubamon... kudasai..." I cry, tear stricken. She looks at me with her warm crimson eyes. She gives me a weak but warm, ensuring smile. "Gomen ne," she said. "Mid... mid... night... Cr-crush...!" Some sort of force field surrounded her repelling me backwards to the awaiting Birdramon. I scramble to stand and look up to see Succubamon pass through the gate and it close behind her. I slump onto Birdramon's back as she flies me back down to the rest of Chosen, who had and could find nothing to say to me. I was too busy bathing in misery to hear the email that Gennai sent Izumi. Something about another evil or master evil or something. I do not care; I have just lost my partner... my companion... my digimon... the one I love... I don't know what to do. I don't know if I can even move, continue. But, right now my self-pity will have to wait, because the place is shaking like some kind of earthquake; the mountain is no longer there. We are falling; the ultimate test awaits.
Chibi-Akuji: Almost done! ^_^ For sake of a shorter story, I'm going to skip the whole Apocalymon series and go straight to the end. The next chapter will be the last, the epilogue. So basically, just add in the Apocalymon storyline between this and next chapter... including a saddened, distraught, digimonless Akuji of course. ^_^ Chibi-Sora: I know what happens next chapter! Chibi-Akuji: [covers Sora's mouth] Shush! Don't give it away! [turns to audience, clears throat] Like I was saying, as you all well know, after the defeat of Apocalymon, the Chosen have to go home without their digimon, right? So, how will Akuji take it? Chibi-Mimi: And what happens with BlackTailmon? Chibi-Hikari: And how can the rest of us console Akuji? Chibi-Miyako: [plainly] Carefully. [Receives strange stares] What. Chibi-Akuji: [shakes head] Anyways, thanks to those who actually stuck with, or even read this fic, it being my first and leading story, and I hope you will stick with me and enjoy the other fics I can provide for you. Be seeing ya! ^_^