A/N: I realize that this chapter is incredibly late but working two jobs, starting school, and trying to spend some quality time with my friends and family during the holiday season kept me pretty busy. Thankfully that's all over and I can hopefully spend more quality time on the things that matter most, fanfiction.
This chapter is pretty short and there's not a lot of action. I was mostly trying to find my center, as it were, for this fic while also trying to fill in some gaps between Lord of The Nightmare Soldiers and this fic. This chapter will answer a few questions as to where certain people stand and what has brought up the issue of war. It will also allow you to see how much Matt has grown into the role as a ruler. Hopefully this won't bore you since there's no action and all it really does is push the plot along.
Reviewers you rock! I am so happy to see so many familiar faces along with some new ones. This lets me know that this fic didn't loose all its readers and that the fic is still generating new interest. Originally I was going to update Physical Graffiti before I updated this but your reviews showed me that the demand for this fic was higher. So here is the update at last.
Akino Ame: you're right the idea for the three angels is totally cliché but I had no intent what so ever to make it where Frontier co-exist with this fic. To be honest I know very little about Frontier having only made it a point to see the episodes with Fallen Angel digimon in it, so if there are any other similarities please feel free to let me know and I will attempt to change what I can. Originally I was going to use Ophanimon, Seraphimon, and Lucemon since I needed three angel digimon for the Three Spiritual Items but after learning of the connection with Cherubimon I decided to use him instead. so thanks for pointing that out for me and from now on I will try to stay as far away from the Frontier plot as I can.
Adamant: thanks for pointing out my error with Ophanimon, I'm pretty sure I failed angelic hierarchy in school. I'll make certain not to make that error again.
Luna Wolf aka Matt4ever: the sequel to Prisoner of The Night will more then likely not appear until I get further along with this fic and Physical Graffiti. To be honest I am aiming for early to mid March for a post on that, but my plans have a tendency to fall through. If I haven't mention anything further on it by late February then feel free to send me a reminder and I will stop what I'm doing and work on it.
Shido: thanks for the suggestion, it is pretty interesting that the Warrior of Light is associated with the Nightmare Soldiers, however I think I'm going to keep WereGarurumon in his ultimate form simply because I want to stay true to the series plot. Also thanks for reviewing I'm glad you like the first fic.
~*~*~
Twilight graced the heavens and the earth in a veil of color. The shadows of night began to creep from the east seeking dominion over all the heavens. The sun's golden crown beamed from aloft his head reaching out like blazing arms across the horizon. It was the first summer's eve of the new years. Winter had long since thawed into spring and spring sprouted and bloomed into summer. Now the days were longer, the air was warmer, and the sun released his rein upon the land slower, both his coming and going were like a wildfire spread across the eastern and western horizon, making it seem as though the clouds themselves were on fire.
The light of the sinking sun cast a halo around all it touched. Everything from the gray mountains to the green foliage glowed in its golden radiance. The water of crystal blue reflected the beams with a white glare while the air itself seemed to dance gleefully from the feeling of the warm rays upon it. Amity always seemed to settle upon the Southern region in the hour when light and shadow met and shared the sky. Though the looming possibility of war and the constant distrust from outsiders threatened to destroy this harmony, it did not hinder the sunset from casting its spell upon the race of warriors who inhabited the Southern lands.
Even though deceit, treachery, and a will to rebel had recently crept back into the hearts and minds of other nations the creatures of the South remained ever true. And while other nations whispered in the darkness, charging fault against their own leaders, the race of warriors spoke only of love and devotion to their leader. War could come and the other regions could bring the sky down upon them but they would not falter. They had sworn oaths; oaths that not even death itself could brake. And though they were labeled murders, thieves, and cowards by the outside world the Nightmare Soldiers held steadfast to their ways. No amount of deceit or treachery could sway them and they would follow their Lord until death and beyond.
"What of the fleets?" a soft but gruff voice questioned as two bright yellow eyes scanned over the scattered contents on a large wooden table.
"There are too few to man all the ships. The MarineDevimon will not have enough strength to hold back an assault should the harbors be targeted." A feminine voice replied calmly as steel blue eyes also fell upon the pages on the table.
A sigh of frustration was followed quickly by the first voice. "This is ridiculous!" the voice snapped in aggravation. "Our armies are great but there is no way we will be able to handle the combined strength of the other three regions. This whole thing makes no sense!"
"The recent events should not surprise you, WereGarurumon." The second voice answered gently. "The East has never trusted us, somehow I doubt that they ever will."
The werewolf digimon only nodded at his companion's blunt response. The frustration vanished from the ultimate's yellow eyes and he returned his attention to the table. Maps, lists, and various other documents were piled on top of each other or scattered over the table. Candles set upon iron candleholders were placed on top the many papers in and attempt to keep the content separate and organized.
"This unit here, they have not been signed a post." WereGarurumon stated, forgetting his earlier outburst and returning his attention to more urgent matters.
"They are newly enlisted outsiders from File Island and from the Dark Ocean." The female digimon explained while placing a purple-gloved hand upon a sheet on the table to show her superior the enlisting information.
WereGarurumon shook his head in thought. Though the majority of the Nightmare Soldiers remained upon the Southern continent or in the Southern Region there were some that sought a home away from the strength of their people. Most of them had recently returned to their homeland either by fear that they would be targeted by their neighbors or by desire to answer their Lord's call. Though those who had grown and lived in other lands were not counted among the strongest or wisest of the race of warriors they were still welcomed home and given a place among their people.
WereGarurumon was not entirely thrilled about using the weaker outsiders as their harbors' defense but he was even more concerned with those from the Dark Ocean. After Deamon's destruction the armies that remained loyal to him were hunted down and quickly destroyed, however, there were digimon who simply lived in that bleak world, but did not serve any master. They were nurtured by the pure darkness of that world and so they were equal in strength to those who remained all there lives in the South. But with their strength came arrogance and minds of cruelty. They remained in the Dark Ocean even after Deamon's defeat and Yamato gave them that world and placed a leader over them. They were still under the laws of the South, but they were never counted among the Southern race.
"All of them are ghost digimon." The ultimate commented more to himself then to his companion.
Cold blue eyes looked at the werewolf questionably. "Yes, what does that have to do with anything?" she asked with a small smirk, finding her superiors contemplative look amusing.
"Well my dear Renamon," the ultimate began with a large grin, "it is a well known fact that ghost can not drown."
"So you want to have the new unit posted on the fleets." The rookie digimon concluded as she picked up a feather pen which had been lying among the mess on the table and scribbled some digi-code down upon a note book in front of her. "For once he's using his head." The yellow fox digimon commented casually as she scribbled her notes down.
WereGarurumon shot the rookie a quick glare, which was received with a sly smile before both Generals turned back to the papers on the desk. There was so much to be done, and neither felt that they would have time to organize everything before the council the next night.
WereGarurumon was about to go back through the sea of papers when a sudden sharp breeze blew over him, chilling him to the bone. He felt the shadows in the office grow large and threatening while the flickering candles seemed to dim, their flames changing from a warm white to an eerie red. Suddenly the air grew cold around him and the red glow of the candles began to take shape. The werewolf shuddered involuntarily feeling as though the red flames were staring at him, looking deep into him.
"WereGarurumon!" a hand tugged gently at the ultimate's wrist, causing him to jump. "Are you all right?" the concerned sound of Renamon's voice reached the werewolf's ears. He nodded dumbly to show that he was fine then took two deep breaths to calm his nerves.
Renamon had stepped back, her blue eyes looking curiously at her friend. "What happened?" she questioned gently.
WereGarurumon snapped his head around looking at the fox digimon in amazement. "You mean you didn't feel it?" he questioned almost in panic. The feelings had been so strong and real, the cold reached deep into his bones and the eyes leered at him from the red flames, causing him to feel exposed and vulnerable. Quickly the werewolf scanned over his surroundings. The office he was in had four walls, no windows, and the two doors were shut, and yet he distinctively remembered feeling the wind.
"Something's not right." He commented thoughtfully having regained his composure.
Renamon wanted to question the meaning of her friend's words but a sudden uproar drew her attention to the office doors.
The sounds of a great argument came from behind the doors of the office, causing both WereGarurumon and Renamon to look curiously at the entrance.
"I gotta speak to Lord Yamato!" a pleading voice spoke urgently to the guards around him.
BlackRenamon stood between two IceDevimon ready to command the fallen angels to an attack should it prove necessary. Opposite from them stood an Ogremon, a strong and crude digimon from the harbor. The Ogremon was a well-known outsider who preferred the digital waters to the southern lands. He traded his goods for the highest price and would open cannon fire on any merchant vessel that seemed to carry a profit.
"An audience with Lord Yamato does not come easily, and you have done nothing to earn it scum." BlackRenamon explained disgust laced heavily in her tone.
At his failure the Ogremon only seemed to grow more insistent. "Ya don't understand!" he shouted desperately before charging at the rookie digimon in a futile attempt to get past her.
Before the sailor could even get two steps behind him the IceDevimon rushed past him and grabbed both of his broad arms. Ogremon struggled violently, cursing the ice demons as he tried to break free from their hold, but the guards were too strong and they merely lifted him into the air, holding him by both his shoulders and upper arms.
BlackRenamon's white eyes began to glow like wild spirits as her patients were slowly being tested. "Go tell your ghost stories to the rest of the sea rats at the harbor." She hissed in annoyance having not moved once since she first approached the tattooed sailor.
The IceDevimon chuckled as the Ogremon finally stopped struggling in their hold, his head lowering in defeat. Even in his mad state the sea digimon knew he could not over power the guards. The fallen angels dropped the green digimon to the ground; his broad body making a thumb as it hit the marble floor.
"Escort him out." BlackRenamon ordered to her two companions, earning her a quick nod from both of the IceDevimon.
WereGarurumon and Renamon listened closely to the argument from their place in the small closed off office. BlackRenamon had handled the situation correctly, though possibly with more force then was necessary. There were many times when pestering digimon would barge their way into the great hall demanding to see the Lord of the Nightmare Soldiers, however, none of these times had ever proven fruitful for the young Lord as most of them simply had irrational complaints about his governing systems.
But this case seemed different. Both general had very good instincts, and as the years past these instincts only sharpened, becoming more intoned with their people. It was true that the Ogremon was acting rashly, but that did not mean that he did not have something worth hearing. Finally WereGarurumon's convictions got the better of him and he pushed the large wooden door open and looked down the hall were BlackRenamon stood with her arms crossed over her chest and the two IceDevimon stood holding the green digimon ready to carry him off.
After assessing the situation the werewolf emerged completely from the office with Renamon following closely behind him. WereGarurumon looked over the Ogremon closely. The ogre's usually bright green skin had long since faded to olive green, a sign of long time exposure to the sun and sea water. Upon the champion's broad back was a colorful tattoo of a Phoenixmon with its golden wings spread out to cover each shoulder and a corona of fire around the image. Phoenixmon was a symbol of good luck among sailors, the ocean digimon believed that the fiery bird could control the weather, and was a representation of the sun and wind.
BlackRenamon looked up as she saw the two generals approaching. Once the two had made their way up to the group the three guards bowed their heads quickly in a show of respect.
"Were we disturbing you my Generals?" the black fox digimon questioned apologetically.
WereGarurumon smiled at the familiar rookie guard then replied, "No, you were not disturbing us. We were only curious as to what was occurring out here." He answered kindly, not seeing the need to fall into his stern demeanor and commanding General.
BlackRenamon nodded thoughtfully then offered a brief explanation as to Ogremon's clamorous presents in the hall. "This digimon stood outside the northern court yard for nearly fifteen minutes shouting at the guards, ordering them to take him to Lord Yamato. As is the law of our Lord to serve the needs of all visitors I agreed to see him. The guards escorted him into the hall but once inside he grew wild and escaped the guards running through the halls like a mad beast."
WereGarurumon listened closely to the guard's tale, once she had finished her report he turned to the Ogremon, who was now facing him. The large virus digimon's rubicund eyes danced within the brink of madness, he seemed awestruck and yet terrified all at once.
"I got see Lord Yamato… I gotta tell 'im it's comin!" the sailor digimon stated almost as though he were oblivious to everything around him, with his mind only able to process the simple task of seeing his Lord.
WereGarurumon nodded having resolved the matter in his head then turned to his fellow general, who had remained silent ever watching the orge digimon. "Renamon would please ask Lord Yamato to meet with us in the Throne room."
Renamon nodded then walked past the grouping heading in the general direction of her Lord's chambers.
WereGarurumon knew better then to send anyone but a general to disturb his partner during his private time. The teen had grown all the more weary since the arguments with the East had begun, and he spent most of his time dealing with the matter. This fact made the one hour he'd spend alone very precious to him and the werewolf hated having to interrupt it, but he knew in his heart that something was wrong. He could not wait until Yamato was ready to be found. Some things simply would not wait for the Young Lord's timing.
~*~*~
The sound of sorrowful music flowing from an afflicted soul carried upon the wind, mingling with the melody of the soft summer breeze. The weight of the music fell upon the air chasing away the warmth from the sun while weighing the air down so that even the breeze felt the burden of the song. The wind and the notes lingered near the maker of the song, the wind breaking upon the walls of the large room while the notes echoed back as a whisper to the song maker.
Many candles were scattered about the room, but their tiny flames were mediocre in comparison to the sea of color and light painted upon the heavens as the sun made its final farewell for the evening. The light sought out and embraced every object in the room, leaving their bleak shadows behind them and wrapping them in a golden glow, but even the sun with its golden crown and flawless beauty was not enough to bring warmth to sorrow-laden room. So as dusk fell and the sun sunk behind the ring of mountains the song remained the same, little hope was laced within the notes, and once the sun had fully shrank behind the towers of stone, drawing with it the vibrant color of the sky. Finally the song ended leaving its melancholy ghost to haunt the song maker.
A small-dejected sigh soon replaced the sound of saddened music followed by a very soft clank. The song maker had disregarded his small metallic instrument upon the smooth marble floor and now sat empty handed and unfulfilled. The long smooth harmonica glistened in the flickering light of the candles, but the song maker himself remained dark, all radiance having faded from him as many burdens laid upon him like the weight if boulders. Another sigh, this one from exhaustion, escaped into the air while crystal blue eyes scanned over the room they knew so well.
The room was carved completely out of the mountain, however the dull gray stone had been laced and completely covered with perfectly polished opal. There were three entrances to the room, two small side doors on both the left and the right and one main entrance in the center of the room with two large doors. All three doors were made of polished steel. The two side doors were engraved and trimmed in then lines of gold, while the main entrance had a forest engraved at the lower part of the door with a crescent moon surround by many stars engraved at the top, they too were filled with gold. The walls had tapestries of black velvet with silver designs embroidered into them hanging from where the wall meet the high ceiling and stopping three inches above the white floor.
The song maker shifted his position until his elbows leaned back onto the black fur rug, which was laid behind him. He looked up slightly, his eyes catching sight of the ceiling, which was made of the same steel as the doors and had the constellations of the South engraved in gold upon it. But it did not take long before he grew bored with the sight and his saddened blue eyes shifted from the room behind him to the world before him. Only two thirds of the circular room was walled in, the last third laid completely opened. Three opal steps descend from the room down into a crystal river. The river was deep but the water was warm, bubbling up from a hot spring. There was an opal bridge, which lead over the brook to the garden beyond. It was a beautiful sight when the sun shone down upon it, but it held an even greater enchantment once the sun had surrendered the heavens to night.
A small smile pulled upon the song maker's lips as he looked upon his surroundings knowing what was to happen next. On either side of the hi were three great opal pillars, which had been hallowed and had openings of vines reaching from their bottom up into the circular ceiling. Within each pillar was an orb, which produced a white flame once the sun had set. The white lights had just begun to glow within the pillar, beaming out of the carved vines in a dim radiance. The song maker's smile broadened and the light of the white flames illuminated his pale skin and reflected off of his crystal eyes. His mind would not find rest under the blaring flames of the sun, but the lamps of night, the silver stars and moon and the pure white flames of sorcery, those could bring him comfort. They could light the shadows in his mind.
"Truly beautiful, uselessly extravagant, but beautiful none the less." An enchanting voice stated indifferently.
At this the song maker chuckled, not needing to turn around to see who had enter the room, he knew who it was before she had spoken, before she had teleported through the door.
"Be thankful we were able to talk Sorcermon out of re-doing all the rooms. He seemed to think that every room needed a touch of magic to them." The song maker explained, smiling at the thought of his other dear friend.
Renamon remained silent, despite her Lord's laughter and joke she could still feel the doubt within the room, the sadness of the changing times. No one would have expected that Lord Yamato, who had tried so hard to repair and maintain the South's relationship with the East, who be the first of the two to threaten war. But then again no one would have believed that Azulongmon, the mightiest of all the digi-gods, would have responded with such rash demands.
After the silence had lingered between the two to the point of uncomfortable Renamon decided to speak, feeling that her Lord had most likely forgotten that she was there at all. "I'm sorry to interrupt your solitude Matt, but WereGarurumon requested that you meet him in the throne room." Renamon spoke kindly to her Lord and friend, though there really was no need to take caution with him. While the other leaders of the world had grown irritated and jumpy since tension grew, Yamato had managed to remain calm and kind to all of his people.
For a moment no response came from the young Lord and Renamon was beginning to think that he had not heard her, she was about to address the teen again, this time with concern but before she could speak the teen stirred.
Silently Yamato pushed himself off of the rug then stood, grabbing his harmonica off the floor and putting it his pocket before stretching slightly. He then turned around and faced his general looking at her for the first time since she had arrived. He yawned then walked over the fur rug to where Renamon stood.
Renamon looked at her Lord forcing her cold eyes to remain frozen and not display the grief in her heart. The teen had changed so much over the past three years. He was no longer a thin somewhat normal fifteen-year-old, but was now a tall dignified man, though still youthful and beautiful, all traces of boyhood had vanished from him. His body had toned into lean defined muscles, and he now stood at least six feet tall. His hair, though had changed several times over the years, was once again being kept at shoulder length with spiky layers. His skin still remained fair, and was currently contrasting greatly with his outfit of all black. Black had seemed have become the young man's favorite color as he was usually clad in it. Tonight a comfortable and casual outfit of a long black sleeve shit and loose black pants clothed the young Lord.
Despite the changes in his height and stature, nothing compared to the dramatic change in his eyes. The bright orbs still maintained their radiant blue; however, a change had befallen them nonetheless. Wisdom, depth, sorrow, and strength of will shone in them like the gentle silver corona of the moon. They were eyes that had seen much suffering and had long endured their own pain. They were humble yet commanding, it was often said that his eyes were unfitting for a human, and yet none could think of another creature more worthy to bear them.
"All right duty calls, you can fill me in on the way." Yamato announced with a smile, brining his rookie friend out of her thoughts. When the fox blinked and shook her head slightly he smiled, knowing that she was tracing thoughts of pity for him.
Despite his knowledge a smile remained upon the teen's face and he walked lightly over the floor, past his friend, and open one of the large steel doors, holding it open before bowing over dramatically. "Ladies first." he announced causing Renamon to role her eyes with a smile before treading past him and out of the room.
Once the fox was past him Yamato looked back at the room, all signs of jest and peace faded from him. He felt the pain of what was to come creeping up upon him once more.
'There is no death more painful than the death of hope.'
With this thought he shut the steel door leaving the silver lamps locked away within the room before turning to the darkened corridors of his great hall.
~*~*~
Yellow eyes followed the movements of the olive skinned Ogremon watching as the virus digimon would take a few steps in one direction, stand there for a moment then move to the next direction all the while mumbling incoherently to himself. Besides being completely distraught the Ogremon also seemed angry and frustrated, mixing growls with his incoherent babble.
"Can we get you anything to drink?" the ultimate digimon finally asked, annoyed by the ogre's mumbling.
Ogremon stopped for a moment once he realized the question was directed towards, he then shook his head wildly before barking, "No!"
WereGarurumon only nodded in response before flashing BlackRenamon a look, which clearly displayed his growing irritation.
BlackRenamon only offered a nod in agreement.
Once silence had returned to the throne room Ogremon continued with his pacing leaving WereGarurumon and BlackRenamon to watch him in both pity and disgust.
Sometime past in this manor and WereGarurumon was about to question whether Yamato was coming at all when the sound of soft footsteps caught his ears and he recognized the approaching scents of Renamon and his partner, Yamato Ishida.
Renamon pushed one of the great wooden doors open, no sound came from the hinges as it swung fully open, a sign that the great hall had remained well kept over the years. Renamon stood by the door and all three parties waiting in the throne room turned their attention to its entrance. Yamato followed his third general through the door; his bare feet treaded so softly over the marble floor that only WereGarurumon's unrivaled hearing could catch the soft patting sound. Renamon waited until her Lord had past through the door before she turned to shut it.
Yamato walked with a regal air as he entered the throne room. His face was emotionless, but his deep crystal eyes shone with concern. Renamon had explained the cause of him being summoned on the way to the throne room and his worry had grown with each step. He feared the news this rouge captain had to offer and the evil that had driven him from the sea deep into the center of the South.
WereGarurumon and BlackRenamon bowed as their Lord approached, however, Ogremon merely stared, his awestruck state seemed to grow in the presence of the young Lord, and he began to fiddle with his bony fingers while shuffling his feet.
Ogremon stood between Yamato and WereGarurumon and BlackRenamon, and once the two had risen and realized that the sailor had not bowed they move aggressively towards him, ready to force him to his knees. However their task was never done for before they could reach the champion digimon Yamato held up his hand ordering an end to their approach.
The two digimon seemed surprised by their Lord's actions however they obeyed and stepped back, allowing the troubled digimon to continue in his dazed state. Once the two Nightmare Soldiers had pulled back Yamato approached the Ogremon cautiously. A great pity filled his eyes and his stern face softened the longer he watched the traumatized digimon.
"Ogremon, Captain of the Red Rain, why have you deserted your vessel and crew and come to a land where you are an outlaw and will surely receive death for your crimes upon the sea?" Yamato questioned, his voice commanding and wise.
To the surprise of the other three digimon in the room Ogremon ceased his babble and stood perfectly still, Yamato voice cutting through the spell upon him. For a moment the sailor remained silent, his head down, making it seem as though another spell had been put upon him and that he was now frozen and barely breathing.
Despite the Ogremon's new state Yamato remained silent, still awaiting the answer to his address.
Finally the effect of the young Lord's voice broke and the champion digimon began to tremble as he spluttered out his reply. "She's gone… me ship's gone… they're all gone…" he managed to form the words despite his trembling.
Yamato made no move to speak, instead he waited knowing the champion would gather himself in a moment and speak more clearly.
"It came o'er us like a wild beast. The winds star'ed howin and the sea star'ed shakin and it all went black. It covered the sky like the wings of Phenioxmon herself… and lightin wild and crazy star'ed shootin down like missals. The Red Rain was hit and fire took to her and ate her alive. The men took to the life boats but I wen down wit the Red Rain. I ain't sure what happened a'ter that… I jus woke up at the harbor. I had been fished ou a day ago, but my ship sunk two day ago."
Yamato shook his head, confused by the quick explanation. 'Why didn't I have Sorcermon come back between the meetings? I could really use a telepath right now.' He thought to himself before going over the details of the Captain's story and shorting them out as best as he could.
"So you are saying a storm destroyed your ship?" Renamon announced in annoyance, growing angry from the time this sea digimon was taking from them.
Ogremon saw the frustration in his audiences' eyes and grew desperate. "It weren't no storm!" he exclaimed half crazed by the memories of the events. "It were a warnin! Death was in that wind and ruin in the sky." He hissed darkly.
"Where were you when these things overcame your ship?" Yamato questioned calmly. He wasn't certain what to make of the superstitious digimon's story, but since he was already there he intended to get all the details possible.
Ogremon's head shot back towards the teen, his eyes hopefully. "I was sixty leagues away from the South's northern border." He explained with more control, "And it was headin' south."
Yamato nodded taking in the details with skepticism. He was about to further question the Ogremon when pounding irrupted from the other side of the throne room's door.
Yamato looked in the direction of the door with curiosity before nodding at Renamon to answer it.
The yellow fox digimon eyed the door closely before pulling it open. Once the door was opened it revealed a Wizardmon who was panting from his quick run to the throne room.
"Forgive me for interrupting my Lord and Generals," he greeted once gaining control of his breathing, "But something stirs in the north. Scouts report that a freezing wind and ominous clouds are blowing in from the sea. The storm is now within sight of the watch towers." The wizard reported before bowing.
Yamato looked at the messenger then turned quickly to Ogremon. The sailor digimon was trembling even more so then before and a wild fear had entered his rubicund eyes as the memories of his blessed ship being reduced to ashes returned to him. "Bring him." the teen order as he turned to follow the wizard out of the large room.
Renamon and BlackRenamon quickly moved to grab the virus digimon, expecting some resistance but finding none. The two fox digimon led the ogre out while WereGarurumon followed silently behind.
The small group made there way through many corridors while Wizardmon gave as much detail as possible the many reports of the approaching storm.
Digimon who were scurrying about with their duties would stop as the group approached and bowed in respect to their leaders before returning to their duties once more.
"Scouts from the harbor were the first to report it, but at the time it seemed like a mere storm, distant and hardly worth noting. But as it approached a feeling of dread began to fill the sailors and all ships returned to the harbor in panic. Still we took little head to their reports, knowing that sailors had a tendency to be superstitious and spook easily." The Wizardmon explained as he lead the party to the northern watch tower built from an icy peak extended above the northern crest of the ring of mountains.
The group came to two great iron doors, which extended to an arched ceiling. Standing guard at the doors were two BlueMeramon, their flaming bodies serving as the only light in that area. The ultimate digimon bowed upon the party's approach.
"Has there been any change?" Wizardmon questioned once he was nearer the guards.
"No Sir, it has only grown closer, but its approach it slow." One of the ultimate's explained showing great respect to his superior.
Wizardmon nodded then waved his hand, indicating to the guards to open the doors.
The BlueMeramon moved quickly and pushed the great iron doors open. The doors were heavy and squeaked on the great hinges before clanging against the inside walls of the northern watchtower.
Once the doors were fully open the group made their way inside. The entire room was made of solid stone carved from the mountain. It was a large rectangular shaped room and on both long walls windows were carved in the shape of large hexagrams. The windows stopped right before the walls rose up into the arched ceiling. Large iron chains hung from the high ceiling down low, stopping only twenty feet before the ground. From each chain there was a claw with three hands and held in the center of these claws were violet orbs which became ablaze with white light once the sun's light ceased to shine through the windows above. Near both of the long walls were two stone tables, also carved and chiseled from the mountain itself, upon each table were neatly laid papers, a few silver goblets, and iron candle holders lad at each corner with five silver candles upon them.
Yamato looked around; taking note that there were currently no others within the large stone room then his attention fell back upon Wizardmon.
"I was surprised when the storm came upon the coast, but that is not what fully concerned me. It was not the storm itself but the feeling of dread which overcame me when the watch guards alerted me to its approach." The wizard explained to his silent companions as he led them to the center of the room.
In the center of the room was a large circular iron staircase, which lead from the floor up into an opening in the ceiling. The staircase was wide and tall, made to feet the needs of larger and smaller digimon alike.
"Let us go see this thing which has caused so much fear." Yamato announced to his company as Wizardmon led him up the circular stairs.
As Yamato climbed the stairs he extended his mind, allowing himself to feel, taste, and smell the air about him. In less then a second he was overcome with the same unexplainable fear as his guards. It flooded his mind and brought a chill to his body, but he contained himself, remaining unmoved on the outside.
It was not long before the stairs were behind them and the party was upon the watchtower.
They spread across the stone tower, which was circular in shape and had an iron roof above it that rose and pointed into the sky like the tip of a spear. Two wide walls spread from the left and the right, and there were several digimon sitting upon the walls, their eyes turned to the north.
Though he had been told by several of its coming, nothing could have fully braced him for the sight of it. Shadows blacker then the blackest night were slowly spreading over the South. The star light fought against the coming shadows, but their soft glow was not enough, and their light met the shadows in an explosion of blue lightening. The deep blue lightening was not quite as wild and damaging as it was when the shadows battled the sun, but the many stars still fought for their right to give small illumination to the world below.
With the coming shadows a freezing wind blew over the land and Yamato felt himself shudder as a piercing chill came over him. Concern and fear filled the young Lord's heart as he pondered what this odd change of nature could mean. His crystal eyes scanned over the northern horizon, which was now indistinguishable from the shadowed heavens. His eyes started from the northwest then moved to the northeast where another sight among the shadows caught his interest.
The moon was rising in the east; its light and shape seemed to penetrate the shadows as if they were not truly there at all. But the sight of the waning moon was no welcomed thing for as it rose and met the darkened sky its color changed from a fiery orange to a deep red.
"Look the moon!" a SnowGaburimon, one of the watchtower's guards, announced from his place on the right wall.
At his cry all occupants of the tower turned their attention to the east, many of them gasping or crying in awe and despair at the sight of the cursed moon.
From behind him Yamato could hear Ogremon mumbling and fidgeting as he had in the throne room. In frustration Yamato turned quickly around and grabbed the sailor digimon roughly by the arm before throwing him to the ground.
"Take him! I want to know every detail of his first encountered with this storm." He ordered turning toWizardmon, knowing the telepath would have the best results with the distraught champion.
Wizardmon nodded then snapped his fingers, calling for two of the tower guards. A Devimon and a Soulmon appeared from the wall, each roughly pulling Ogremon off of the ground by his shoulders. Wizardmon then turned and walked down the circular staircase with Devimon and Soulmon dragging the dumbfounded ogre behind them.
Once this was taken care of Yamato turned to Renamon, his anger cooled once the annoyance of the sailor digimon had been removed. "Have your scouts gather as much information as possible from within the borders of our territory. It is obvious that this is no natural storm, we must find out its cause and where it came from."
Renamon nodded grimly fearing the worse from the shadow's presence before teleporting off of the tower along with BlackRenamon.
"The storm comes from the North, and yet it is the East that we struggle with. Is it possible that Xuanwumon has sided with the Azulongmon?" WereGarurumon questioned as his yellow eyes fell upon his partner.
"I will not jump to conclusion." Yamato answered calmly while his sight remained on the crimson moon. "I will not charge this against the North or the East, for now." He explained fearing what his scouts would find.
~*~*~
Torchl light illuminated a darkened court. The orange flames burnt upon oil in large iron bowls, the oil managed to sustain the fire despite the wailing wind's attempts to blow them out. The large bowls hung from thick chains, which were attached to a rim that circled the court. The light was defiance against the darkness, which had claimed the sky, and they served their purpose well, as the two people within the court were able to see even with the great Cimmerian darkness.
Standing in the center of the court amid the dancing flames was a tall man clad in white robes which fluttered around his slender frame in the gale. His eyes which were normally as gentle and blue as the clearest summer sky were now narrowed in anger and ablaze in the orange light of the torches.
"How can you still plan to meet with the ambassadors?" the man cried up into the sky, his voice racked with dread.
Emotionless crimson eyes looked down upon the man. These eyes belong to a great beast, a long magnificent serpent with a body of blue wind and white cloud and a dark blue and yellow masked face. The serpent took in a deep breath before calmly replying to the man below. "He should be given a chance to explain himself. I will not deny Lord Yamato a last opportunity to repent and let go of his pride."
"A chance to explain himself?" the man repeated with more composure then his companion had expected. "Azulongmon you have given him plenty of opportunities to abandon his pride for the greater good, and he has denied you." The man argued to the great serpent floating above the court. "These unusual events in the sky must be an evil act of his, he is trying to intimidate us."
Azulongmon's dragon eyes scanned over the heaven's around and above him. Even his gaze could not pierce the shadows that stretched over the sky like a thick curtain, blocking out the light of the stars. From a distance the moon shone like a sanguinary stone, its light falling upon the black clouds like blood flowing from an open wound. The once beautiful digital sky was now cursed and tainted with some unseen malice. The strange events in the sky had lead to pandemonium upon all regions and most held the South at fault, despite the fact that scouts had learned that even the South was drowned in darkness.
"It would seem logical that these strange events would be the work of Lord Yamato, but I do not believe that he would have the will nor even the power to shroud the whole world in darkness. I feel this evil goes beyond him." the dragon replied thoughtfully. He would not deny that he had lost faith with the young Lord over the last year, but that loss would not lead him to rash decisions.
To most outside of the South Yamato was either viewed as evil, weak, or careless. His deeds in the battle against Deamon had been forgotten as many of his people began to roam about the world, stirring up trouble and eventually turning back to wicked ways. With no enemy to hate and no war to fight the Nightmare Soldiers grew restless and Yamato took no efforts to control them as they began to mercilessly attack villages and sometimes even forts and cities. When Azulongmon demanded that Yamato allow agents of the East to come in to the South and do what Yamato seemed incapable of doing, a great tension rose between the two regions. If Yamato refused to control his people Azulongmon felt that he would have to take matters into his own hands, but the young Lord refused this offer and denied any ambassadors from the East entrance to the South.
In order to control his people Yamato called the Nightmare Soldiers back to the South, most returned but the few that did not continue with their petty attacks, causing chaos where ever they went. It was not long before this behavior grew even more out of hand, causing the West and the North to take sides with the East. Now Yamato stood alone, still refusing the East any control over his people. Soon after this the once beloved Digidestined of Friendship offered to send his own troops to put a stop to the rouge Nightmare Soldiers, however this offer was refused by the three Digi-gods, leaving Yamato without control over the situation. Eventually the rouges were destroyed or captured, but Azulongmon still demanded that the three Digi-gods be permitted into the South's courts. Yamato still denied them and still would not allow any outsider entrance to the South. As time past Azulongmon grew more persistent and tension grew even heavier between the East and the South. Now the two regions were on the brink of war, their final negotiations were to take place the next day. Azulongmon had hoped to bring an end to the stand off during these negotiations, however the new events in the sky complicated the matter, and now war seemed inevitable.
"If it was not him then who?" the man questioned in desperation. In truth he did not want a war, but he also grew tired of innocent creatures suffering under the hands of Nightmare Soldiers whether they are rouge or not. He wanted the digimon he loved to be able to walk freely upon the world, not live in fear that their neighbor could be plotting their demise.
"I'm not certain." Azulongmon answered his companion honestly, there was so much that even the mega digimon did not know. He was wiser then most, but even his wisdom could not unravel the mystery behind the shadows. "A war between the two strongest regions would benefit many. Amid the chaos of war any number of new leaders promising better ways could rise and take the hearts of our war weary people by means of propaganda. But I will have to think more on the matter. I will not rule out the possibility of the South, however, I prefer facts to theories." He explained logically showing his true worth as a leader.
The man nodded in agreement finding his Digi-god's arguments wise, but even with this wisdom a great curiosity came upon the man and he timidly spoke to the great dragon above him. "Azulongmon, might I ask you a question?"
At this Azulongmon looked intrigued, "Of course Gennia, what is on your mind?" he responded with a smile.
"You were made from the wisdom and might of the Digi-Core," the man began, only deepening the megas interest, "So why is it that you could not simply seek his aid in such times, surely he would know the cause of this chaos and how to end it."
At this Azulongmon chuckled then smile, although a wave of bitterness passed through him he did not let it show upon his features. "That is a complicated story." The digi-god explained softly, "You see Gennia, the other Digi-gods and I were made of the Digi-Core, but we were not made for it. We were created and given a region to attend to. How we choose to deal with this region was our own choice. The Digi-core set the world back in motion, made us, and then let us be. I tried to dissuade Zhuqiaomon, the youngest of my kindred from seeking the Digi-Core's aid in the rule of his region, but he paid no heed to my counsel. And so now we have the Nightmare Soldiers, also made of the Digi-Core, but more importantly made for the Digi-Core. Zhuqiaomon has no say in the ways of the South, Yamato rules it under the will of the Digi-Core."
At this explanation Gennia seemed both confused and fascinated. "So you hold no loyalty to the Digi-Core?" he questioned in amazement.
Azulongmon sighed, he wasn't certain of how to explain this in ways that would make sense for his servant. "I do what I was made to do Gennia. It is true that I do not necessarily follow the philosophies of the Digi-Core, but that does not mean I am lacking in loyalty to it. A great deal of my philosophies were influenced by a digimon of the Ancient Race. He was the first digimon to be swayed to the Digi-Core's ideals, however, as time past he found many of the ideals ill wrought and turned to beliefs of his own making."
"So do you serve this digimon?" Gennia questioned further amazed at what he was learning.
Azulongmon smiled once more, finally seeing his servant's intents. The man wished to know where his Master's loyalties lied.
Over the years Gennia had begun to understand that those in power were merely servants of higher powers, and where the line ended he had yet to figure out. He had learned that beings were divided into three groups. There were grand puppet masters, who seemed to pull the strings on all things, those that served the puppet masters, and the few who resisted and fought against the puppet masters. There were no neutrals, if you were not one fighting against the puppet masters then you were a pawn of them. It did not matter if you knew you were in servitude or not, you either fought power or you were a slave to it, there were no exceptions.
"I serve the East and the Digital World, Gennia. You will find many surprises in this new chapter of the Digital World. You will find that most you thought you had figured out are really far more complicated then you imagined. This impending war might very well strip off all mask forcing us to reveal our true selves, which we have long since kept hidden. It is not in the height of your life, but in the presence of death that your true character comes out." The great digi-god explained as a great sorrow entered his voice.
"Now go Gennia and rest. Do not fear the inevitable, instead try to think of the possibilities beyond it."
At this command Gennia bowed to his liege then turned and walked towards the great door of the court. 'It is not the inevitable, but the possibilities beyond it that I fear.' The man thought hopelessly to himself as he left his liege among the blacken clouds.
~*~*~
The minutes began to drag on so that time seemed to have frozen while restless warriors thoughts continued racing through their minds. There was so much to consider and no one fully wanted to jump to dangerous conclusion, but fear often brings a need for placing blame, and it was easiest to blame those who were not there. So as the time past slowly and the warriors waited they found their minds drifting to malice for enemies they were not even certain existed.
There were so many unanswered questions. What was the cause of the storm in the sky? Was it only hovering over the South or were the other regions suffering as well? Why did the moon appear imbrued in blood? These questions only added kindle to the flame of pandemonium, which was sweeping across the Southern lands. Activists were already standing before crowds preaching of how their doom was nigh. Brigades were forming into ranks waiting for the order to attack, an order which most believed would come soon. Some of the less then admirable outsides sat amongst one another whispering of how Lord Yamato's pride had brought their doom. But talk of open rebellion never arose in their meetings, as it was obvious that they alone found fault with their ruling Lord. The rest of the South though uneased and weary of these new events still remained faithful to their Lord and were willing to fight and die for him. To the peoples of the South this was but the first assault of many to come from their enemy. War was now inevitable.
The four great Citadels were buzzing with activity as many Soldiers returned to their post and politicians and captains talked feverishly about this coming war. New regiments strengthened the harbors and coast while all land outside of Forbidden Valley was emptied. The Nightmare Soldiers came into the fortified valley in vast numbers, pouring into the land like a flood. The reserves and militia reported to the Citadel they were assigned to while freshly trained soldiers worked their way out hoping to strengthen the outer defenses of the Southern Continent by creating blockades along the coast and posting more reserves at the harbors. This entire process took no less than three hours to be organized and put underway. The stationing of troops would be completed by the end of the night leaving the minds of the armies to deal with the new reserves and militia.
The storm had fully cloaked the land less than four hours ago, but it had only taken fifteen minutes for orders to come from the Great Hall to the four Citadels. The orders were to strengthen the outer defenses and call in all civilians from the more vulnerable lands outside of Forbidden Valley. Despite the large numbers being moved the orders were carried out very smoothly with the Nightmare Soldiers remaining calm and respectful to their authority and peers. By the time the red moon would sink beneath the horizon the entire South would be organized and in place for even the most damaging of attacks.
All that was left to do now was to wait. It was waiting that caused time to stand still. Waiting that feed fear and anger. Waiting that had kept the Lord of the Nightmare Soldiers and his commanding General on edge.
"Stop doing that," a young voice asked softly, "You're going to make me nervous."
At these words the sound of two large feet pounding upon the onyx floor silenced and a quick sigh escaped from a gruff voice.
"You're not already nervous?" WereGarurumon questioned with a kind smile.
At this questioned the first one to speak looked up, strands of golden hair slipped over his crystal eyes, which were calm and stern. "We've all been anticipating something for a while, I almost find it relieving to have the stillness and silence broken by a visible oppressor." His young voice radiated with serenity despite the falter in his gaze.
A look of pity spread over the ultimate werewolf's face, but his partner ignored it, choosing to distract himself with the deck of cards in his hands. His long nimble fingers shuffled the cards quickly as he worked in several dealers' tricks, hoping that by doing this his friend would not see the shaking in his hands.
WereGarurumon looked on in disapproval at the sight of his partner, Lord, and friend. The young man was sitting on the throne room floor with his legs spread out and his right elbow leaning on the first step which led to his throne. To the first glance the teen looked like a prince who was raised in a magnificent palace and was fully comfortable in treating his home however he saw fit, but WereGarurumon knew better. He knew that despite how comfortable Yamato was in the South he never fully got over the regrets of leaving his home in the real world.
For over a year the teen had tried to carry the weights of both the real world and his responsibility in the Digital World, but after a while the stress of this double life began to take its toll. When the first real signs of tension between the East and South arose Yamato decided to make the Digital World his permanent residence. His parents had oddly enough taken his choice well. Yamato's father was always attempting to help the Chosen Children in their struggles by any means he could. He often wrote fake excuses for absences at school and helped the children cover with other parents. Yamato believed that he did this to help make up for all the years he had neglected his children. Yamato's mom wasn't quite as comfortable with the idea but she had been trying to get in her older teen's good graces for years and arguing with him would have only sabotage her efforts.
The Digidestined had been more or less supportive. Some, even after all these years, had not grown comfortable with the idea of one of their own being in league with those they still deemed enemies. Takure had some difficulty with his brother's choice, but he remained strong and supportive, and Yamato still managed to walk the younger blonde to school every morning and always reserved his Saturdays just for him. Taichi's feelings had been hurt more then he was willing to admit, already he had felt as though he was loosing his best friend. But even with the pain Yamato's choice had caused him he still carried on with a smile trying to be supportive while convincing everyone that he was happy for his friend.
Yamato had been so concerned with explaining to his brother why he needed to leave that he hadn't realize just how much his departure had hurt his best friend. Tai managed to keep his pain hidden carefully, the few visits the young Lord managed to make to see him were never enough to uncover the cause of the Digidestined of Courage's pain. WereGarurumon had noticed the change in the leader of the Digidestined, but Yamato had been too preoccupied with preventing a war from spreading over the world he so loved to really see his friend's suffering.
"There is no better way to instill fear then to block out the light. This is an intimidation tactic. Who ever planned it certainly knows how to cause disorder." Yamato spoke causally as he continued to flip through his cards.
WereGarurumon shook his head slightly abandoning any further thoughts of the other Digidestined and returning his attention to his Lord.
"I felt it before it arrived." the ultimate digimon whispered as his mind traveled back to the event with Renamon in the small office.
At this Yamato looked up his eyes perplexed and questioning. "What do you mean?"
"In the office with Renamon, a cold wind blew through me like the breath of the dead. The shadows seemed to magnify and close around me while the flames of our candles grew dim. The light began to look like burning blood and it seemed like there were eyes all around me, looking into my thoughts. I think it was an omen of this storm." The stripped digimon explained thoughtfully.
Yamato looked at his partner in amazement before pushing himself off of the step and into a sitting position. "Why are you only mentioning this now?" he questioned in concern, hoping that there was no spell placed upon his partner.
WereGarurumon laughed nervously before a sheepish grin spread across his face. "I kind of forgot until a moment ago." He explained with his grin only growing as his blonde partner rolled his eyes in frustration.
"I wonder why you were able to sense it and no one else was." Yamato commented more to himself then to his partner. He realized quickly that he could not come up with any decent answer so he decided to drop the issue for the moment. He stood from the floor, a small sigh escaping his lips as he stretched. He hadn't slept in fours days his mind being too troubled with the negotiations with the East to allow him any rest.
"I wonder how Sorcermon is doing?" WereGarurumon thought aloud as his thoughts drifted to the absent General. "I hope the East at least has the decency to treat him with respect." The werewolf added with a growl as if to indicate what he would do if something were to happen to his fellow General.
"The East may be arrogant but they are still civilized, they will treat our ambassador with respect." Yamato stated with confidence.
Silence fell back into the throne room, however, this silence did not last long as it was soon interrupted by the sound of the great throne room doors being pushed open. WereGarurumon and Yamato turned their attention to the door to see Renamon, followed by Wizardmon and BlackRenamon enter the throne room.
Yamato decided to waste no time with pleasantries and quickly turned to questioning the new arrivals. "What did you find out?" he asked seriously as the three new digimon approached the waiting Lord and General.
"Scouts of Gargoylemon and Devidramon searched the sky. The clouds are impenetrable and the lighting damaging. Some of the weaker scouts did not return, we believe it is because of the lighting. Thankfully Gargoylemon's mystical powers were able to shield them from the lighting while Devidramon's thick scales proved adequate to protect them. The majority of them made it to the borders of our territory and they report that the darkness covers as far as their eyes can see." Renamon gave her report earning her nods from all other parties in the room.
"So it is possible that we are not the only ones suffering from the unnatural event in the sky." Yamato commented thoughtfully, feeling some relief from that fact but also new of fear.
"I am afraid there is more my Lord." Renamon continued, using Yamato's proper title in front of the two underlings.
Attention in the room returned to the fox digimon and she continued her report. "At your later request I sent Sakuyamon, Kuzuhamon, and Mephismon to the three islands. Kuzuhamon reported back first from the isle of tombs, Inquiet Sepulcral, apparently there was a great unsettling in the land of the dead. Anubismon reported that he had sent out his own scouts to the North and would report to us as soon as he had discovered something."
"So he suspects Northern influence?" WereGarurumon question in surprise, Xuanwumon had always proven to be just and reasonable, to view him as a threat seemed outrageous.
"There is more." Renamon stated silencing any further questions before they could arise. "Mephismon was the second to report back. He explained that the armies of the desert island of Yermar were forming at the various stone fortresses on the island. Pharaohmon reports that he is preparing for war and will aid us by any mean possible. He offered no further explanation. Sakuyamon was the last to return and she reported that the capital city of the island of Iris had been attack and many things left there in ruin. The Lady Ophanimon refused to speak with Sakuyamon she simply gave her this letter," Renamon paused a moment as she produced a white envelope with the holy stamp of Iris upon it. "She said that it was for your eyes alone my Lord." The fox explained as she walked to the teen and handed him the letter.
Yamato took the letter silently but made no move to open the envelope instead he turned to BlackRenamon knowing that his General had completed her report. "What of you?" he questioned still showing a great level of poise and dignity as he learned very much and very little all at once.
BlackRenamon stood at attention then offer her report. "All troops and reserves are in place. The civilians are still evacuating the outside lands, finding accommodation for all of them within the continent proved difficult at first, but we have managed to house them by putting them into military housing as the soldier head to strengthen the harbor and outer defenses. Many of the civilians are signing up as either militia or soldiers. MarineDevimon report that the ocean needs greater defenses and that the islands in Southern territory are currently vulnerable. The MarineDevimon request reserves for the forts on the islands as shipping civilians from the islands will be far too difficult with the storm bringing danger to any ocean journey." BlackRenamon ended her report with a bow then stood silently.
"The newly enlisted militia and troops need to be trained quickly, they will be used to strengthen the outer islands. In the mean time I want the navy on full alert and blockades placed around the border of our territory as defense for the islands. With any luck we will be able to have a safe means of passage for the civilians to come to the main continent." Yamato explained quickly knowing that his answer would only serve as a temporary solution, but at the moment they had to make decisions and could not wait for a better and more organized way to deal with their currently inner affairs.
"And what were you able to get out of our dear captain?" Yamato questioned Wizardmon showing no respect for the pirate under the wizard's control.
"It is very strange," the wizard began as he recalled his session with Ogremon. "When I went into his mind I found that amid the chaos and fear a part of him was sleeping. I can't be certain but I believe that his memories have somehow been repressed."
"Is there a way to resurface his memories?" WereGarurumon asked curiously feeling a sense of dread at the coming of this new information.
"There is but it is beyond me." Wizardmon answered truthfully. "Who ever caused this repression has great power. He not only forced Ogremon's memories into submission but he also put a sort of spell upon his conscience, which is why he seems frantic and afraid. I alone do not have the skill to work past this wizardry."
The group remained silent within the throne room once Wizardmon had finished his report. This new information provided no answers to the many questions circling their minds.
"It is possible that this Ogremon holds nothing of value to us but I will not take that chance. I am going to order Sorcermon's return on the day after tomorrow, perhaps a circle can awake our dear friends troubled memories." Yamato commented thoughtfully.
"A circle with him as the main host should certainly prove sufficient." Wizardmon agreed with confidence.
Yamato looked back at the wizard and added, "Since you are already familiar with the case you will be the second, I will allow Sorcermon to choice his third party for the circle."
Wizardmon nodded then stood off to the side knowing that his place in the meeting had ended.
After deciding that there was nothing further to be done with the Ogremon Yamato turned to BlackRenamon. "Continue to over see the evacuation and placement of troops. Alert the office here of any complications and inform them as soon as the evacuation is completed. As far as the troops, have the Citadels continue with enlisting and training and move as many as can be spared to the harbor. Let the office know as soon as the reserves are ready so that we can have them shipped to the islands."
BlackRenamon nodded, it would be her responsibility to draw up the official order and present it to Renamon to make certain it cover their Lord's desires. She made certain to take any every detail of the teen's command knowing that any lesser details could be ironed out with Renamon.
Lastly Yamato turned to Renamon. "Have the MarineDevimon expand their rounds and report back every three hours. I want to know everything that happens in our waters. Gargoylemon and Devidramon can continue making rounds in the air, but have reports prepared from them other every hour. As for the three Islands continue communication with them, anything they know I want to know." He explained making it evident in his tone that there was no room for error.
After these orders were fully given Yamato turned away from the waiting party. Silently he walked over to the wall of the throne room, which was painted, with the legacy of the South.
After a few moments it became evident that the teen had lost all interest in the other members of the room so WereGarurumon immediately assumed control and turned to Wizardmon and BlackRenamon. "You're dismissed." He ordered sternly but respectfully gaining him a bow from the two underlings.
Seconds later both Wizardmon and BlackRenamon had left the throne room and both great doors were shut with orders given to the guards outside not to disturb the Generals and Lord within.
WereGarurumon growled slightly in agitation before walking up to his partner and standing beside him. At first the two said nothing, Yamato's eyes seemed fixed upon the painting on the wall.
"Such a dismal past." The teen finally spoke, his voice soft and distant. "More despair then joy, more loss then triumph. All the oppression of this world seems to fall upon us, weighing our people down and leaving us in constant fear. I am tired of our relationships with other regions being based upon fear and not trust."
WereGarurumon looked down at his partner, trying not to focus on how much he had grown, how he was no longer a lost boy but a young man. "Is that why you refused Azulongmon's demands for influence in our internal affairs?" the general question. No one had ever stopped to ask the blonde why he chose the more difficult path, some assumed it was pride others felt it was a sacrifice for the well being of his people.
At this question Yamato turned around and walk closer to the center of the room all the while with his head down. "I had no idea it would go this far. I wanted unity through trust and understanding… I had no idea I could be so naïve." He whispered softly as though his strength was slowly leaving him.
"It was inevitable Matt." WereGarurumon tried to argue, "Even if you had allowed Azulongmon this power it would have only made him want more. After all if you give a dragon a sacrifice he's still going to want to destroy you village."
At this metaphor both Yamato and Renamon turned to look at the ultimate digimon who was now grinning sheepishly.
"Or something like that…" the werewolf added with a chuckle, of course this did not stop Yamato from looking at him as though he were crazy.
"You said that you were going to have Sorcermon return the eve after tomorrow, however the negotiations are not scheduled to end for another four days." Renamon commented bringing the two partners' attention back to the task at hand.
"In light of these new events I myself will leave for the East midday tomorrow so that I might attend that evening's conference. I have a feeling that the negotiations will last no longer then two days at the most." Yamato explained earning him looks of concern from his friends.
"Matt, your presence at the negotiation will be viewed as hostile," WereGarurumon tried to argue but was cut off by his partner's angered response.
"I don't care! Azulongmon holds the councils so everything that is said comes directly from him, I want to show the outside world that I do have an interest in external affairs. I also want to deal with the pandemonium this storm in the sky surely has caused. Charges will be placed against us and I will answer those charges." The young Lord seemed stern in his decision but that did not deter his Generals from trying to persuade him otherwise.
"A trip to the East would be viewed as a great opportunity by our foes. Any assassination attempts would be difficult to deal with on foreign soil not to mention your absents could cause an unsettlement within our troops." Renamon supported WereGarurumon, believing that the odds would be better if both discouraged this idea.
Yamato shook his head as if to silently dismiss his friends concerns and argument. "I need to be there, Azulongmon wants me there. I am certain of it." He explained, his voice returning to it normal soft tone, "And if any coward wishes to kill me then let him step out of the light and face me. I will personally deal with any complication such as those. As far as the South goes, the people will remain calm if the two of you remain calm." with this said Yamato turned to his partner. "You will be in charge in my absence, keep the people calm and the preparations moving."
WereGarurumon nodded in reply to this command.
"I am going to my room to seek some peace before I leave tomorrow, do not disturb me unless it is truly important."
With this command Yamato walked towards the side exit to the throne room and disappeared into the secret dark corridors of the great hall.
Once the teen was gone Renamon turned to WereGarurumon. "What of that letter from Lady Ophanimon?"
"I have a feeling it was more personal then official." WereGarurumon answered honestly.
"He does not deserve this pain." Renamon stated sadly as her eyes drifted towards the side exit.
"None of us do." WereGarurumon replied evenly. "Come on lets get to work. Much must be done before he leaves tomorrow."
"What do you think will happen once the council begins." Renamon questioned as she turned back to her superior.
WereGarurumon sighed in exhaustion and worry. "I don't know. Somehow I doubt any good will come of these talks, whether he is there or not." He explained honestly, "But let us not concern ourselves with that now, for now all we can do is wait and see what tomorrow brings."
Renamon nodded in agreement and the two Generals left the throne room ready to serve their Lord by any means necessary.
~*~*~
Something you might have noticed is how I now refer to Matt as Yamato when writing in third person or when certain characters refer to him. In his role as Lord he will be referred to as Yamato however his Generals, fellow Digidestined, and family will continue to call him Matt. Another thing is that Matt refers to the Digi-Core as "her", Gennia as "him", and Azulongmon as "it". Basically the Digi-Core is ultimately genderless and will be referred as different titles by different characters.
A lot of this chapter was also meant to show you that Matt does in fact rule a country. In this fic you will see him performing a lot of official duties and there will be more structure to the way I present various governments and militaries. Now go review, again if you have any question feel free to ask them. If the questions are going to be answered sometime during the fic then you more then likely will not receive a direct reply. This does not mean I do not take notice of the question it simply means that by answering it I could ruin some of the plot. I hope that makes sense.
Oh I do have a few questions.
Is this a good length for chapters or would you prefer them to be longer/shorter. Give me a range of length you prefer and I'll try to adjust to it. If you really don't care one way or other then the chapters will continue to be inconsistent as far as length. I realized that towards the end of Lord of the Nightmare Soldiers I was getting very descriptive. Let me know if you like lots of description or prefer more action and plot movement. I'm trying to find a good balance between descriptions and plot advancements. Lastly let me know what you think of the character development throughout the fic. Basically tell me if you like the way characters are changing and growing or if I need to rout back more towards their original characters. Hopefully there won't be any extreme ooc-ness but sometimes it's hard for me to tell if I've lost the essences of a character.Well that's enough for me. Please review, any and all critiquing is highly welcome. (I am working on my spelling and grammar problems but to quote my English professor… "You can use any dictionary they're all pretty good and you can use any grammar they're all pretty bad"). Hehehe… I think you had to be there, but anyway review and hopeful updates will come quicker now.