Rika: *Points to profile on computer screen* Explain.
Zero Unit: I have an unhealthy obsession with Boku no Hero Academia and in order to get it out of my system and get validation for my feelings, I write stories with them. *Turns to camera* So if you're interested in what a headcanon Tokoyami Fumikage's backstory to be like or want to see a 'feels like it's canon' or just like smut (I aged them up, don't worry) story then check out The Cursed Child: Tsukuyomi and Boku no Hero Cinema or Tsukuyomi and Tentacole!
Gatomon: Enough with the shameless promotion! We have questions to answer!
Kiriha: Right… So let's start with this one addressed to the Celestial Angels. "I know Seraphimon calls Bokomon Papa but what about Ophanimon and Cherubimon? They were also reborn along with Seraphimon so do they call Bokomon Papa as well? And would that make you siblings?"
Ophanimon: *Hand to her chest* I think of you both as my dear, irreplaceable brothers.
Cherubimon: Although I can't say that we're actually siblings by birth.
Seraphimon: And no, those two do not call Papa, Papa.
Bokomon: They like to call me Uncle. Isn't that right, my big strong angels?
Cherubimon: *Turning red* Uncle, not in front of the Chosen Children.
Takuya: *Leaning closer to the other Legendary Warriors and whispering* This is really weird, right?
JP: *Leaning back* One of them tried to kill us on multiple occasions whether directly or by proxy and even manipulated, practically brainwashed Kouichi into trying to murder his own twin brother. So yes, this is extremely, positively, and undeniably weird.
Marcus: Next question, "Could we have some TK?"
TK: What? Wait, what? What does that mean?
Patamon: I guess someone's been worried about your lack of appearances lately. Although in your defense, you can't really show up when you left the Kingdom Town and that's where the focus has been for last couple of chapters.
Zero Unit: Don't worry TK fan, I'll definitely show more of him in this chapter.
Davis: Sure, why not spoil which group you're going to focus on first.
Joe: In the interest of time, we'll answer one last question. It was sent to us in all caps so it's clearly urgent. Ahem, "WHERE IS CALUMON IN ALL THIS?"
Marcus: Jesus, man, you don't have to yell!
Jeri: I left Calumon at home. Masahiko said he'd watch him until I got back. So unless Calumon went out, he should still be there.
Calumon: Yup, there's nothing to worry about with lil' old me!
Zero Unit: Also, readers, keep in mind that there is a huge cast here. If I don't mention a character in a situation where I can, it just means that they aren't so important to the scene. I'm trying to run this story by giving you all the essentials.
Neemon: And with that, we all hope you enjoyed this chapter!
Bokomon: *Snapping his pants* Don't say it in past tense, you dimwit!
Ophanimon: Uncle can go from doting to scary so quickly.
Takuya: *Off-camera* Still super weird!
-X-
January 25: Hypnos — 9:00 AM
Ai and Mako were being suffocated by their mother who was refusing to let go of them. Risa was being doted on by her own mother while she awkwardly waved to her quietly fuming father and grandmother in the back. Even though Yutaka was the one without a partner, it was Tommy who was being held and talked to like a little kid all over again. And Shinya was being scolded heavily for doing something so dangerous.
A shrill, Italian voice rang through the room. "Zoey, your hair!"
"Nothing on the bandages?" Zoey muttered to herself as her mother inspected her head.
Yuu looked around the crowd of people before stopping on Ryouma. "Where's Tagiru?"
"Went to visit family in the Fukuoka prefecture," the Hunter replied. "But I did get a call earlier saying that he was going to be fighting a Royal Knight." This got a big reaction out of Yuu who almost flew into a full-blown panic. "Marcus was sent ahead to give assistance, don't worry."
"We heard you guys showed off a bit," said Kouichi, talking to the new Warriors.
"Yeah, but it's hard to control," Katsuharu chuckled. "We've been training to try and do so."
The Legendary Warrior of Darkness looked over the other boy's shoulder, at Teppei who was staying in the background. "What about him?"
"I'm sure he and Grumblemon will come to a consensus at some point," said Katsuharu. "If it's Teppei, I'm sure of it."
Henry's family was silently weeping. They sat around talking in hushed tones, trying to comfort one another. It was at least a little relieving to know that their youngest was still alive. But to think that the next time they met, she would be their enemy and actively trying to kill them. It was just much too heartbreaking to think about.
Rika tugged on Yoshino's sleeve. "Did Ryo's dad say anything?"
The policewoman shook her head. "All he said was that he didn't have son."
"How cruel," Renamon remarked.
The redhead crossed her arms and leaned against the wall, watching as her family looked over any and all injuries on her twin. They did a quick once-over on the Tamer before going to check Risa, of course. It wasn't like they were going to neglect attention on one just because she held herself to be more independent than the other.
In the midst of the chaotic reunion, Ken took it upon himself to report the invasion that happened the day before to the big bosses. That meant the Monster Makers (minus Janyu), Yamaki, and Sampson. It was obviously a lot to take in.
Yolei, JP, and Nene stayed behind to watch over the newly displaced refugees and their one war prisoner who refused to tell them anything about the Demon Lords. No one wanted to pry too much so they left her alone to observe while being watched like a hawk. They also had to make sure that the transporter was working at all times.
In the meantime, they had to figure out who was going to stay behind on Earth and who got to return.
"The seriously injured members should rest at home," said Tai. "As well as all those who weren't supposed to go to the Digital World in the first place."
The others couldn't really argue with that. But it seemed they didn't need too many people in the Digital World for the time being. A lot of them wanted to rest. So Tai and Matt agreed that they would go in their place. Once Marcus returned from his day trip, he'd set off along with them since he wanted to check out the human settlement that Keenan and Kazu found.
"Thomas, Yoshino, you two want to take my place?" asked Keenan. "After everything, I think I'm ready to rest at home."
"It'll give me a chance to check on the wounded," said Thomas.
Yoshino punched her open palm. "I've been wanting to deal with the bad guys at the source anyway."
Discussions closed for the day. Everyone just wanted to have a relaxing day with their friends and families once again. It felt like a lifetime since they last had the chance to do something that didn't involve fighting or training.
Returning to Earth: Kari, Ken, Henry, Rika, Risa, Ai, Mako, Zoey, Tommy, Kouichi, Yutaka, Shinya, Keenan, Relena, Yuu
Entering Digital World: Tai, Matt, Marcus, Thomas, Yoshino
Staying in Digital World: Davis, Yolei, Cody, TK, Takato, Jeri, Kazu, Kenta, Takuya, Kouji, JP, Kristy, Taiki, Kiriha, Nene
January 31: Northern Settlement — 9:13 AM
The first thing the group did upon arrival was tend to the wounded. The city was ravaged to the point where it no longer looked like a place anyone could live in. The dinosaurs that rampaged through the flaming ruins let out earthshaking roars. They were apparently searching for survivors or stragglers, as soon as they were sure that they had destroyed everyone, they would move on to the next place.
"It's just so awful," Kristy muttered.
The settlers found a nearby cave to stay in for the time being. The humans could see everything from the mouth of the cavern as it was on the side of a cliff face. Where the Royal Knight was, they weren't sure though. Crusadermon wasn't exactly large so it was really no surprise that they couldn't see her right away. But they had hoped to spring a surprise attack on her.
Taiki and Kouji were sparring deeper in the cave. They were the best fighters among the humans. The latter starting to feel nervous about taking on Crusadermon again since last time they took each other on, he was almost always beaten in every match. But with Takato to support him, he would surely be okay. Didn't do much for his nerves though.
"Another Royal Knight," Guilmon remarked.
Takato nodded. Duke passed his title and rank of Royal Knight to the Tamer. But it felt like a lot of pressure. "It feels wrong."
"What feels wrong?" asked TK, approaching his schoolmate.
The brunet flinched, looking up. "Oh… just stuff…"
The pair watched the destruction go on like a scene out of Godzilla. The Digimon they were taking care of wanted to assist the Chosen Children so Taiki split them up to the bodily able and the too injured to move. He would be leading the able to fight and gave clear instructions to TK and Kristy to stay behind and take care of the rest just in case their hiding place was snuffed out.
"Duke asked us to be the new Royal Knight," said Takato, out of the blue. "I'm just not sure if we're worthy that."
TK could understand the worry. "If anything, I personally think you are. You're strong, resourceful, and most importantly, you're not arrogant."
"What?" Takato chuckled. "For saying I'm not worthy?"
"Isn't that how it goes on TV shows with these kinds of situations?" TK shrugged.
The boys chuckled together, thinking it was nice to laugh about something when it was hard to feel happy otherwise. Before long, the others felt ready to take on the enemy army. It would be a tough battle for them. But they couldn't let their nerves get the better of them.
"TK, Kristy," said Taiki. "If something happens, we'll be trusting you guys to protect everyone."
Biyomon did a salute. "You can count on us!"
"We'll be waiting for you either here or our other meeting place," Kristy nodded.
"Good luck everyone!" Patamon cheered, raising a fist. "We're rooting for you!"
Takato and Kouji were going to enter the city from the other side and only one minutes after the other team entered the city. They still wanted to get the jump on the Royal Knight so the plan was that Taiki's team would cause a commotion, bringing attention to him. That would allow the other two to search for their biggest problem who, in theory, should go after the General.
Taiki would lead the charge forward with Marsmon and OmniShoutmon on the frontlines. With a loud war cry from the army, garnering the attention of the destructive dinosaurs, they rushed forward. Two DarkTyrannomon attempted to release volleys of flames at their enemies but the Olympian and Digimon king broke right past the blaze, striking down the overgrown lizards in a single strike each.
Taiki saw a Vermilimon round the corner, rushing towards them. The human knew that he couldn't take on an Ultimate alone with just a sword. So his other partner, Puppetmon, dropped in from the atop one of the toppled buildings, whacking the giant beast with his mallet.
"Puppet Pummel!"
The quadruped let out a pained roar as his armor cracked. Taiki aimed for that wound as he struck as if he was in a kendo match, slicing the enemy in two. Left behind was an egg which was quickly collected by a Swanmon that tossed it into a giant wagon. They couldn't let any of them be deleted permanently even if they were working for the Demon Lords.
Puppetmon threw his strings onto a Monochromon, handing off the controls to the General. Taiki mounted the beast, prepared to ride into battle.
"Everyone!" Taiki called out. "Focus on the bipedal Digimon! They're almost all Champions and their weak spots are the legs!"
The resistance let out a roar as they followed their General. As expected, all this noise would definitely draw out their stronger foes. Zipping past the buildings was the all too familiar form of the Royal Knight, Crusadermon, coming right for Marsmon. It made sense, there was no doubt that the Olympian gave off the most threatening vibe.
"Not so fast!"
MagnaGarurumon shot through the air at light speed. He crashed into the Knight, propelling her off in another direction. He landed in an intersection but quickly vanished out of sight before Crusadermon could recover from the crash.
"Now!" MagnaGarurumon yelled.
"An ambush?" Crusadermon gasped.
Gallantmon revealed himself from behind some rubble. "Shield of the Just!"
Spinning around, the Knight raised her right arm which held her Pile Bunker, a weapon that could act as both offense and defense. She used it to block the brunt of the laser beam but it was powerful, pushing her back several meters and into the remains of a concrete building. She was buried in the metal beams and dusty debris.
"Did you get her?" MagnaGarurumon asked.
"No way was that enough," Gallantmon grimaced.
"Scarlet Tempest!"
A whirlwind pushed outwards from the Mega, freeing her from her above ground burial. Both the Legendary Warrior and the bio-merged Digimon covered their faces as they were hit with stones and metal. They knew it wouldn't be easy but to think that her armor would be shining just as much as it was before was rather daunting.
Digital Analyzer: Crusadermon is one of the Royal Knights, the highest rank and title that can be given by the Sovereigns. She is a strong believer in the ends justifies the means. So long as she can attain her goal of what she personally views as justice, it doesn't matter what she has to do to get there. Of the Knights, she is the most ruthless in carrying out her duties and shows no compassion for the weak.
"You!" Crusadermon was staring directly at MagnaGarurumon. "I know you!"
"She remembers?" MagnaGarurumon muttered.
Gallantmon thought back to Duke. "Careful, her memories may have been tampered with."
"You're the one who brainwashed my fellow Knight!" Crusadermon snapped. She approached them slowly, this time looking over at the Warrior's companion. "Duke, I promise that I will free you from this villain's cruel curse!"
"And there it is," Gallantmon murmured.
Crusadermon created a net made from light. "Laser Lattice!" It flew at the pair at an incredible speed so they quickly hacked away at it with their respective weapons. But in no time, the Royal Knight covered the distance between herself and them. "Spiral Masquerade!" The ribbons that surrounded her hardened and struck out like blades being swung by highly trained swordsmen. Gallantmon and MagnaGarurumon were too slow to react so their armor got scratched up as they tried to jump back.
"Lightning Joust!"
"Magna Missiles!"
"Breath of Wyvern!"
Gallantmon and MagnaGarurumon didn't recognize that attack. But they watched as a dragon made of hot white fire burst forwards, colliding with their own moves. There was a bright flash and an explosion but once they blinked away the light, they could see Dynasmon before them.
"Hmph," Crusadermon scoffed. "Took you long enough."
Dynasmon let out a chuckle. "I finally found those cowards though. I sent your legion on them."
"Good," Crusadermon nodded.
Digital Analyzer: Dynasmon is one of the Royal Knights, the highest rank and title that can be given by the Sovereigns. He is unique among the group as he has complete unwavering loyalty towards the master he serves. Meaning even if they were to be deemed evil, Dynasmon will continue to serve them with the same amount of effort as he always did. Armored in the purest quality of Chrome Digizoid and equipped with tenacious, dragon-like power, he boasts tremendous strength.
"Taiki and Shoutmon called it," said MagnaGarurumon.
Gallantmon was more concerned with what the dragon said upon arrival though. "Do you think they're going to be attacking TK and Kristy?"
"It sounded like it," MagnaGarurumon admitted. "But they should be able to take on anything thrown at them."
Crusadermon shot forward, doing the same thing to MagnaGarurumon as he did to her. Dynasmon then went to confront Gallantmon. It would appear that this was the match up the Knights decided in the end. Crusadermon wanted to personally free Gallantmon from her imagined brainwashing incident while Dynasmon always wanted to take on a fellow Royal Knight in an all-out brawl.
"Fist of Fear!" Crusadermon cried out, pouring energy into her Pile Bunker.
MagnaGarurumon, having fought with this Royal Knight on multiple occasions, knew that he would be done for if he took that attack full force. So he quickly ditched his weapons, lightening his load significantly. Then with his blinding speed, avoided getting struck. The fist did connect with the wall behind the Warrior though, causing a massive wave of destruction to go through the city.
"She seems to have gotten stronger," MagnaGarurumon remarked. But he couldn't let up as he grabbed his firearms once more and launched every single one of them. "Feral Fire!" Missiles and bullets and other sources of ammunition flew towards Crusadermon.
"Scarlet Tempest!"
"She repelled all the gunfire?!" MagnaGarurumon gasped.
"Fist of Fear!"
Once more, MagnaGarurumon abandoned his weapons, knowing that he wouldn't be able to keep up with her speed with them on. They were destroyed instantaneously with the connection of the Knight's fist with them. So the cyborg wolf had to resort to one-on-one combat. It was why he was sparring with Taiki for as long as he was, after all. He wouldn't lose like in the past.
The pair immediately engaged in fist to fist. They were both so fast that each swing of a limb sent a quick wave of wind flying off to places unknown. Each strike they almost landed on one another made a loud CRACK as their armors refused to give way to the other's intense strength.
"It doesn't matter how fast you are!" Crusadermon shouted. "Spiral Masquerade!"
It was true that she still had all of her weapons. The four ribbons being the biggest problem. But how was the Warrior supposed to relent now?
"Starburst Hunter!"
Glowing so white and bright that the sun would turn away with burning eyes, MagnaGarurumon shot forward at top speed, accelerating with each millisecond. It blew away Crusadermon's bands as she was suddenly struck a thousand times by the Legendary Warrior. Bands of lights slowly vanished after finishing the job with the Royal Knight. Crusadermon fell to her knees on the ground.
"Not bad," she admitted.
MagnaGarurumon slowly turned around only to collapse himself. There was a large wound on his stomach. It was getting hard for him to breathe and with each word he spoke, he had to cough. "You… landed a Fist of Fear… at the last second?"
"Hmph." Crusadermon pushed herself back on her feet, pivoting around. "I am a Royal Knight for a reason, mongrel."
"Why… am I always losing?" MagnaGarurumon grunted.
Kouji had several years of experience over each of them and a black belt in the sport. JP was a heavy hitter but so long as you didn't get hit, you were fine. Zoey was agile and flexible so it was hard to hit her but if you caught her when she tried to strike, she was done for. Kouichi was the most difficult to match as you couldn't really tell what he would do but it seemed skill still trumped mystery.
The only one that Kouji didn't have consistent wins against was Takuya. For them, they were fifty-fifty for every match.
"Davis is like that too," Ken remarked. "Horrible technique but I've lost multiple times."
They were taking advantage of Henry's dojo which his sensei was kind of enough to lend them on his day off. Everyone wanted to get stronger and faster so their Digimon wouldn't have to worry about them 24/7. The Warriors and anyone else with former martial arts experience personally took the others under their wing to teach them.
"Davis, just flailing about won't help you every time," Thomas scolded.
The brunet was knocked onto his butt by the doctor. "Hey, it's worked fine so far for me!"
"Not against me," Marcus smirked. The only person in the room that hadn't lost to anyone except Thomas. "Your moves may seem unpredictable but I can tell exactly what you're thinking. You fight based on instincts which is cool and all, but Digimon that catch on will totally take advantage of the numerous openings you give." He then looked over at Takuya. "That goes for you too!"
Ken took a sip from his water bottle before letting out a chuckle. "The only reason they don't lose easily is because they're relentless."
It made sense. Kouji had knocked down Takuya multiple times but the other boy refused to give in, always standing back up and lunging forward once more. After a while, Kouji would get tired out and give up or accidentally leave himself open to attack.
"I'm always… giving up too soon," MagnaGarurumon huffed. "I always run away when things don't look good. But I can't. Not this time."
Crusadermon raised her Pile Bunker once more. "Stubborn fool."
Takuya's lopsided smile flashed through the Legendary Warrior's mind. "I'll take that as a compliment."
Returning to his human form, Kouji glanced up at the sky, darkened by the rising ash. The sun having been swallowed up by black clouds like it had been eaten by some horrid beast. The only source of light in this area came from the flames that surrounded them.
"You dare underestimate me?!" the Royal Knight screamed. "Fist of—!"
Kouji raised a hand, enveloped in a circle of pure light, so bright that it was blinding to Crusadermon. "I will bring light to this darkened land! Legendary Execute!" A tower of light shot skywards, like a beacon that piercing through the clouds, actually blowing away some of the ash and letting some rays of morning sunlight break through the haze. "Ancient Spirit Evolution!"
In a burst of light, a radiant Digimon in tough white armor was brought forth, standing taller than any of his previous incarnations. Held in each hand was a golden greatsword, both as large as the Royal Knight that opposed him. It was clear that this Warrior possessed power far beyond one's wildest imagination.
"Impossible!" Crusadermon gasped. "You're…!"
"AncientGarurumon!"
Digital Analyzer: AncientGarurumon is the ancestor of all light-attribute Digimon. He is the embodiment of light and goes by the name, Luna, given by the Sovereigns.
It was clear that Crusadermon was intimidated by the fact that she would be fighting the original Legendary Warrior of Light. For most Digimon, when given the options of fight or flight against this mighty Digimon, would surely choose the latter. After all, there were very few Royal Knights that could ever hope to compete with this much power. Still, she continued charging energy into her Pile Bunker.
"Fist of Fear!"
AncientGarurumon stabbed the ground with his blades. "Absolute Zero!"
A wave of light washed over the area, encasing everything that was touched by the glow in a glittering layer of ice. Crusadermon was frozen in place even without touching the ground, her datastream slowing down until it stopped completely. For humans, that would mean their death. For Crusadermon and any other Digimon, it meant they had a glitch and their program was restarting which would take time.
"I cannot… how can I… lose to a villain?" Crusadermon grunted.
AncientGarurumon raised his swords once more. "I am no villain. But neither are you. You are but a victim of the Demon Lords."
"Is it… true…?"
"I'm afraid so," he nodded. "Allow me to bring you to peace. Walk towards the light…"
"...Thank you."
With a slash, Crusadermon was split in two. Her data slowly dissipated, floating off towards the sky that now allowed the sun to shine down brightly. AncientGarurumon watched this carefully, praying for her peace as never again would the world see this Royal Knight.
"There will be a Knightmon one day that will be worthy enough to take your place," said Kouji. "I'll make sure of it."
Gallantmon and Dynasmon crashed through one of the only buildings that was still standing, crumbling it to mere dust in their wake. They tumbled to the side, trying to shoot one another from across the cloud of dust but each shot was either reflected or blocked. Before long, they made it to the outskirts of the city, staring each other down.
"As expected of a fellow Knight," Dynasmon chuckled. "You don't hold back."
Gallantmon was uncomfortable with being referred to as such. "I'm no Royal Knight. But I will lead the Knights away from their current fate."
"What idiocy is this?" Dynasmon laughed. "Have you gone mad, Duke?"
Gallantmon didn't respond, just raised his holy lance. "Lightning Joust!"
The Royal Knight avoided the beam easily before flying forward. The paladin swung outwards, creating an arc with his shield in hopes to strike down the enemy. But Dynasmon quickly jumped, evading the swing and exhaled a breath of fire to engulf Gallantmon.
"Spiral Saver!"
In order to counter the blaze, Gallantmon spun around, creating a twister of fire. Both attacks collided, notably raising the temperature by a couple of degrees. It was hot enough to actually make the earth around them look like it was melting.
"Fighting fire with fire, eh?" Dynasmon grinned.
Takato, inside the Mega, materialized three cards in front of him. If he wanted to end this battle quickly, then he would have to give himself a power boost. After what happened last time, Earth Life was definitely out of the question. The repercussion were much too difficult to handle, not to mention it was much more effective to use after taking injuries. But thanks to last time, he gained two new cards, gifts from the true Royal Knight, Duke.
"Digi-Modify! X-Antibody Activate!"
An X appeared above Gallantmon's head, enclosed around him in an upside-down pyramid. When it shattered into shards of light, he had completed his form change.
Dynasmon's smile grew wider. "So you're finally getting serious! Dragon's Roar!"
Ten different colored dragon spirits shot forward, each with their own unique structure. The red was hot like fire, the white moved incredibly fast, the pale blue froze anything that got close, the yellow crackled like electricity, and the pink spiraled like a miniature twister. The other five went around, clearly going for the back, the blue made of water, the black shrouding everything, the gray like an iron blade, the green with thorns on the head, and the brown made of solid earth.
"Do not underestimate me!" Gallantmon shouted, spinning around. The blade cut down the dragons from one side while the shield protect him from the other. Once he finished his single rotation, he faced Dynasmon directly, shield in front. "Final Elysion!"
Dynasmon narrowly avoided the blast radius. "As expected of one of the strongest Knights. But you're usually not this sloppy."
Gallantmon didn't know how to explain that he really wasn't Duke. So he just rushed forward and slashed with his energy blade. There should be a big difference between their strength at the moment so Dynasmon should be completely outmatched. But then an X appeared under the Royal Knight's feet and closed around him, knocking back Gallantmon.
The paladin let out a gasp. "Don't tell me…"
"Dynasmon X!"
The new form was almost skeletal in the way Dynasmon's body was armored. They shined in the sunlight that broke out due to the tower of light in the distance. From his back, there were four thin wings, ragged and shredded but still solid.
"Takato," Guilmon muttered. "I don't like this."
"Neither do I," Takato replied.
Dynasmon cocked his head to the side. "You look surprised. Though I supposed that's a given since I never showed you this form. I will no longer be known as one of the weaker Royal Knights, you hear me? Dragon's Gust!"
All four wings pushed the wind forward, creating a powerful gale that could uproot every ageless tree in any ancient forest. Gallantmon raised his shield to protect himself but was met with the great force pushing him back, his boots dragging across the ground. Two deep lines, each over twenty meters long, marked where he once he stood and his current position.
"That's some crazy strength," Gallantmon remarked.
"I haven't shown you anything yet!" Dynasmon cackled, appearing behind the other knight.
His claws grew hot with white flames in the palm and he slashed at Gallantmon's back. But the bio-merged Digimon was able to get out of the way in the nick of time by flipping forwards. Only his cape suffered from the assault.
When Gallantmon landed, he spun around, slashing with his blade once more. "Sieg Saber!"
"Dragon's Gust!"
The wind countered the elongated blade, cancelling each other out. Both fighters charged at each other not even a fraction of a second after it died down. They slashed and hacked away at each other, blocking blows and redirecting shots that went way off into the horizon before leaving a mark. They were evenly matched in speed and power, that much was clear.
Gallantmon jumped backwards before unleashing a lightning strike from above by raising his weapon. "Royal Saber!"
"Breath of Wyvern!"
Not only was Dynasmon able to avoid getting hit by turning into his dragon form but he was able to crash into Gallantmon, doing damage as well. Gallantmon could feel his back being dragged across the earth while his front was being roasted alive by the enemy. By the time the Royal Knight was done playing around, Gallantmon's head had crashed into a boulder.
"Tch, this guy's really strong," Gallantmon admitted.
"Give up yet?" Dynasmon taunted.
"Not yet!" Takato let another card appear in hand. "Digi-Modify! New Coat of Arms Activate!" Stamina was still being wasted but at least most of his outer wounds were beginning to heal. Next, in order to counteract the X-Antibody, he would have to try a different approach instead of just brute strength. "Digi-Modify! Medieval Magic Activate!"
A magic circle appeared around Gallantmon. Ever so slowly, he changed into MedievalGallantmon, in magical armor and equipped with the lance, Dynas.
"Here we go, here we go," Dynasmon snickered. "The form I hate most."
MedievalGallantmon would raise a brow if he could. "Why's that?"
"Dynas… why do you think it has that name?" asked the Royal Knight.
If MedievalGallantmon remembered correctly, according to the encyclopedia entry, the weapon he had in hand contained the strength of a wyvern. Likewise, Dynasmon also possessed that dragon-like power. Did Dynasmon interpret this as a case of identity theft?
"I am only borrowing this power," said MedievalGallantmon. "Wyvern's strength belongs to you."
"Don't you dare patronize me! Breath of Wyvern!"
"Rage of Wyvern!"
They both launched a blazing dragon at each other. They snapped at each other, biting, trying to claw at one another. They caused the ground to shake and with each roar they unleashed, the world would pause to listen. Inside the dragons were two warriors that struck at each other even more ferociously than the feral beasts they were contained in. Dodging and striking, trying to make the other yield to their power.
"This power that I'm borrowing," said MedievalGallantmon. "It belongs to the true Duke. The one that wants this madness to end!"
Dynasmon evaded another slash from the bladed lance. "There you go again, babbling on about nonsense!"
"Let this power, that matches yours, be the thing that brings you peace!" MedievalGallantmon called out, his voice reaching the heavens. "Final Crest!" With one powerful swing, the opposing wyvern was blown away as was the Royal Knight. He was propelled far, far away, crash landing into the dirt like a comet after breaking through the atmosphere and hitting land. "Let this… be your finale."
Dynasmon stared up at the sky. At the sunlight breaking through. He could hear the footsteps of his foe coming closer to him.
"Heh… I guess I should've known I would lose," Dynasmon chuckled, his legs disappearing. "Duke chose… an appropriate replacement for him."
Takato took a step forward. "You knew?"
"Since when?" asked Guilmon.
"A while…," Dynasmon confessed. There was no way that the Royal Knight he used to envy and admire for his strength and nobility would fight the way this human-Digimon duo did. "I must admit… it was a good fight, kid. And I'm glad… that it got to be my last one."
Dynasmon always wanted Duke to fight seriously whenever they would spar against one another. He wanted to bring out the best in his fellow Royal Knight. But the only ones that could ever do that were Jesmon and Gankoomon. Those three stood at the top of the Knights, possessing power that the others simply couldn't imagine. Dynasmon hated to be looked down upon even if it was by those of the same faction.
"I am one of the Sovereigns' highest ranked soldiers as well," Dynasmon would say. "So why won't you take me seriously?!"
It was always difficult to tell what Duke was thinking. "Have I not been?"
"Your X-Antibody, your Medieval Mode, I want to fight you at your best!" Dynasmon demanded.
"Then show me yours."
"I'm sorry that I'm not Duke," said Takato.
"Don't be." Dynasmon was now just a head. "It was… a fun match."
Both Royal Knights were beaten easily, within minutes of each other. Kouji and Takato felt that they had gained strength in ways that they couldn't quite understand. They had underestimated their own power while overestimating that of the Royal Knights. Their goal of defeating the Demon Lords no longer felt so far away now.
January 31: Hidden Cavern — 11:23 AM
The attack happened without warning. A massive army of Knightmon marched up the cliff, waving their swords over their heads, smashing them into the base of the incline. But they didn't realized until the ledge broke apart like a mudslide. The injured cried out in fear and horror as they started falling.
"DNA Full Charge!"
Garudamon appeared, holding the wounded back, taking them to a safer spot while TK and Kristy tried to slow their descent. Taiki left behind two members of his collection just in case, Dinohumon and Strikdramon. The pair charged forward but there was no way they could take on that many Knightmon all at once.
"Patamon!" TK called out, raising his D-3.
"Until Garudamon comes back, it's up to you!" Kristy added.
"Patamon Digivolved to… Angemon! Digivolve to… MagnaAngemon!"
With his sword drawn, the angel flew right into the fray, slashing away at them. The armored warriors fought back fiercely, using their shields to protect themselves from the laser blades before thrusting their weapons forward. While MagnaAngemon was at the same level as them, the difference in skill level was clear as day as he parried their blades and sliced them to shreds.
The only issue was that they were easily outnumbered by dozens. Kristy was armed with gauntlets and shinguards while TK had a bo staff. They were still greenhorns when it came to combat, so there was no way they would stand a chance against even one Ultimate. They had to work together just to avoid being cleaved in two by one.
"Let's try that tactic we practiced!" TK suggested.
"Right!" Kristy nodded.
TK used his staff like a pole vault, jumping over a Knightmon. As Kristy blocked the oncoming sword in her armored hands, TK input his green DigiSoul into his weapon before whacking that knight on the head. At the same time, Kristy lifted off the ground and drop kicked the knight on his breastplate. They made dents in the armor but not much else.
"Crud," TK muttered. He raised his arms to shield himself as he was backhanded, sent flying through the air and landing on the dirt hard.
"TK!" Kristy called out. She was also struck in the stomach, causing her to double over in pain. "Damn it… we're too weak."
Garudamon returned to the battlefield, picking up his partner, getting some of his feathers cut off by the blade in the process but at least the human was safe. TK was trying to get away but it felt like a rib or two might have been broken from the impact. No wonder Kari scolded him for being too reckless, it felt like he was constantly getting hurt when he fought.
A Knightmon was coming closer to him. If it weren't for MagnaAngemon impaling the humanoid through the back, it might've been the end for the human.
"Thanks," TK coughed.
The angel spread his eight wings, letting them glow softly. "Magna Antidote!"
"You can heal me later," TK grunted. "Behind you!"
"DNA Charge Overdrive!"
"Garudamon Digivolve to…!"
Eaglemon shot forward at top speed at the Knightmon with his sword raised over his head. In a single claw strike, the knight was deleted. Then turning around to face the rest, he enveloped his body in hot flames, soaring towards them in the shape of a massive bird made of fire.
"Kaiser Phoenix!"
Row after row of their enemies burst into puffs of data and before long, Eaglemon had destroyed them all. The vast difference between Ultimates and Mega was truly exemplified in this instance. Although the avian Digimon had to exert a lot more energy than usual in order to ensure the fact that his power could penetrate the armor of all those Knightmon in one fell swoop.
"Was that really it?" Kristy asked aloud. "Just the Knightmon."
TK felt suspicious of how easy that was too. Were they just strong? "I feel like there's something else here."
"Undead Soldier!"
All of a sudden, the data that had dispersed earlier, started gathering together once more. Before anyone could say or do anything about it, the fifty Knightmon they had destroyed had returned onto the battlefield. Each with their own renewed but enraged gleam in their eyes.
"What the—?" Kristy gasped.
Eaglemon flew into protect his partner once more. "How did this happen?!"
"Berserk Sword!"
Dinohumon and Strikedramon were slashed clean through, both being deleted immediately. They were Taiki's partners so they wondered, how could they tell the General that two of his allies were felled just like that. They knew they had to do something quick. Should they search for the person who brought the Knightmon back to life or deal with the army first? MagnaAngemon had his own answer to the question.
"Gate of Destiny!"
"Of course!" said Eaglemon, bursting into flames once more. "Kaiser Phoenix!"
Crashing into the earth hard enough for the Knightmon to be lifted off of it, the soldiers were sucked into the warp gate created by the angel. Using his impressive speed, Eaglemon made sure to get any stragglers, throwing them into the hole along with the rest. Before long, all fifty were gone once again. Now all that was left was to find out where their mystery foe was.
It seemed they didn't need to coax him out. He made an appearance from beyond the cliff, revealing his enormous stature.
"Who in the world?" TK gasped.
Digital Analyzer: AxeKnightmon, a fusion of SkullKnightmon and Axemon who exchanged and drank cups of brotherhood. A first-class warrior, utilizing the ingenuity of one and the mobility of the other, easily overtaking any enemy in a flash. He wields his Twin Spear with deadly precision, every move he makes with it being highly calculated and advanced. However, while you do not want this Digimon as an enemy, having him as an ally is not much better as he will use any means to achieve perfect victory, including betraying those who trust him.
"Taiki mentioned this guy once more," Kristy grimaced. "And it was bad stories all around."
TK remembered them very clearly. This was the Digimon that manipulated Nene into doing his bidding and even kidnapped Yuu. "We can't let down our guard."
AxeKnightmon raised the Twin Spear. "I'll be sure to have my fun with you puny humans."
Outsized and outclassed, it was clear just from looking at this warrior that this was the case. But with their partners standing tall behind them, the Digimon knew they had to give this fight everything they had. So MagnaAngemon and Eaglemon spread out their wings and shot forward at top speed, hoping to at least beat him in that area.
"Excalibur!"
"Kaiser Phoenix!"
AxeKnightmon spun his Twin Spear around, creating a black twister to form. "Treason Vortex!" The pair was sucked in and crashed into each other in the storm. The humans could do nothing but watched as their gargantuan enemy smashed his bladed shoulder into them, spilling gold and white feathers out in every direction. "Shoulder Blade!"
MagnaAngemon returned to his Rookie form, his wings badly bruised. Eaglemon was durable enough to to take the hit but it still hurt badly.
"Are you guys okay?" Kristy gasped.
Patamon let out a groan as he was lifted into TK's arms. "Can I wake up from this bad dream now?"
Eaglemon flew forward again, this time not quite as straight. He zig-zagged through the air and did a few spirals in an attempt to confuse AxeKnightmon. Hopefully, the armored foe wouldn't be able to tell where the next attack would come from.
"Mystic Break!"
AxeKnightmon swung his spear around, deflecting the beams of light that could've disintegrated any other material. Then the avian shot right towards his face, trying to claw into it with his sharp talons. But AxeKnightmon backhanded the cyborg, sending him crashing into the cliffside and causing a small avalanche, burying him in dirt.
"Eaglemon!" Kristy cried out, running to the dirt pile. "Are you okay?!"
AxeKnightmon let out a small chuckle. "That should be enough to bring him running."
"Beat Slash!"
There was a flash of gold and the intense heat of fire as a new warrior appeared on the scene. From the city came OmniShoutmon, swinging his leg out which had sharpened into a blade. It was blocked by AxeKnightmon's spear but it was clear that this was the closest they were to doing actual damage to him.
"It's good to see you again," AxeKnightmon laughed. "I hope we make this meeting last a long while, OmniShoutmon!"
"AxeKnightmon," the other Digimon glared. "This time, I'll make sure to beat you myself!"
The pair immediately pulled away from one another before re-engaging. Fists ablaze clashed against the metal of the spear, sending sparks to fly everywhere. The expert maneuvering of hand-to-hand combat versus the professional handling of the dual-ended weapon showed just how strong both of the fighters were. The very aura they emanated could be felt by all viewers, feeling like they were being pushed back by the sheer force of their energy.
Taiki was still in the city, leading the army. But when his partner sensed a familiar power on the outskirts, he was given permission from his General to return and fight. This was because they both knew that neither TK nor Kristy currently possessed the necessary power to win against such a powerful foe.
AxeKnightmon lost count of how many punches and kicks he'd blocked. "You've gotten stronger!"
"I don't need your praise," OmniShoutmon huffed.
"But I wonder how far you'll be able to go without your precious General."
The ones on the sidelines had to wonder why AxeKnightmon was staying on the defensive. It may be the smarter tactic in this situation but none of their enemies in the past could ever go so long without striking back. There must've been a reason to it. Then they noticed the aggression in OmniShoutmon's attacks. Was it possible that the plan was to tire him out first?
"Don't just be offensive!" Kristy shouted. She was trying to channel her inner general. "Hit him with a big one!"
"Twin Fireball Strike!"
Flames surged into OmniShoutmon's closed fists as he pushed them outwards, impacting the spear once more but with enough force to blast AxeKnightmon back. Then he threw the fireballs, releasing them like fireworks into the sky. But AxeKnightmon spun around, using his cape to protect himself from the blast although it ended up burned in the aftermath.
"Are all humans that annoying?" AxeKnightmon scoffed before thrusting his weapon forward. "Twin Spear!"
"Victorize Banking!"
The blade broke through the blazing V, striking right through. Then, shooting forward, AxeKnightmon slashed right for his opponent's head. But OmniShoutmon ducked underneath the attack and raised his leg up high, sharpening it once more.
"Beat Slash!"
"You've even grown faster," AxeKnightmon remarked as he repelled himself just a mere centimeter from the foot.
"Don't hold back!" TK called out. "Go for the finisher right away!"
OmniShoutmon understood exactly what he was being told to do as he summoned the spiritual presence of the mighty Royal Knight, Omegamon. "Omni Core Fusion!" He then burst forward at top speed, leaving a streak of light in his wake. AxeKnightmon almost didn't have the time to shield himself as he was struck head-on by his foe.
"That's some strength," AxeKnightmon grunted as he tried to push back.
"I'll definitely beat you," said OmniShoutmon. "Whatever it takes!"
They duked it out in the sky. It was the same as before except OmniShoutmon gained the equivalent amount of power and speed to the esteemed Royal Knight. AxeKnightmon was clearly having trouble trying to keep up although he was semi-successful in doing so. Every now and then, he would get struck in the knee or arm or chest but none of the vital points to dealing a ton of damage.
AxeKnightmon could feel himself being pushed back. It was a corner that he didn't like being in. The inferiority complex that he always had from living in the shadow of his brother was starting to grow in the pit of his stomach. Except it was towards this enemy that he had held a grudge for since three years ago.
"Enough!" the warrior bellowed. "Twin Spear!"
They broke away from each other once more. While OmniShoutmon was running low on stamina, it was his opponent that was suffering.
"Ready to get serious now?" inquired OmniShoutmon.
AxeKnightmon had his hands over his wounds and was attempting to control his stertorous breathing. "How annoying… I intended on tiring you out but instead you came running at me with enough force to derail a GranLocomon. Are the words of humans that swaying to you?"
"It's not something I would expect you of all Digimon to understand," OmniShoutmon replied.
Even though they were both in severely weakened states, they continued to exude immense power. Which showed in the way they shot back at each other. In dark and light flashes, they trades blows with one another. The smoky impacts of flame-enveloped fists against the rapid whizzing of the spear through the air.
"Twin Spear!"
"Twin Fireball!"
The moment of contact of metal to metal made a huge CLANG! It reverberated through the air and sent vibrations through the onlookers. TK fell to his knees to keep himself from being blown away while Kristy just hung onto her partner's arm.
"Treason Vortex!"
"Victorize Banking!"
The twister became covered in flames, repelling both fighters backwards as they hit the ground hard. But they tumbled, getting back onto their feet without issue.
Then they stood up and fired back at each other once more. OmniShoutmon released an intense volley of flames while AxeKnightmon stabbed the air multiple times in quick succession, sending a flurry of thrusts to counter the fireballs. As they continued their individual onslaughts, they took steps towards each other until they were right in front of one another, the force of their blasts nearly blowing them away.
"Let's finish this!" they both roared.
They both threw a rocket-energized punch at one another. It connected to their faces and they repulsed like two of the same-charged magnets. They changed forms as they fell, one returning to his original form, Shoutmon, and the other splitting into two, Axemon and SkullKnightmon.
"Tch," SkullKnightmon scoffed as he stood up. "You really are a king now, aren't you."
Shoutmon knew what this was about. In the past, he wouldn't stand a chance against AxeKnightmon alone. But the hardships he had gone through in the last few years since fighting this enemy in the past had really changed him. He matured into a mighty combatant, capable of bringing down some of the strongest of Digimon through his own skill and power. A king worthy of his title.
"You're not so bad yourself," Shoutmon remarked with a smug grin.
SkullKnightmon was using a spear to help him up. "I don't like it… but I can't win as of right now."
"Eaglemon!" Shoutmon called. "Quick! Before he escapes!"
The avian was confused at first. But then SkullKnightmon mounted the back of his companion before taking off. Immediately, Eaglemon spread his wings and gave chase. However, it was clear that he wouldn't be able to catch up given that he hadn't recovered from the previous attacks.
Meanwhile, back in the city, the battles were coming to a close. With the aid of WarGrowlmon and KendoGarurumon filling in for OmniShoutmon, they were able to push back against the Demon Lords' army with ease. The civilians that had been displaced were more than thrilled to know that they had taken their settlement back and let out a cheer that rocked the earth. They lost a few to the Gizumon that arrived in waves but they were otherwise okay.
What they didn't know was that the injured had been in grave danger. AxeKnightmon hadn't just been laying in wait. As soon as Garudamon had left them alone, they were slaughtered one by one in cold blood. Their data absorbed and their negative emotions causing the sea levels to rise in the Dark Ocean. It was all part of the deal between the Demon Lords and the Deep Ones, after all.
When they found out, they were devastated. Taiki felt like he had failed. TK and Kristy felt even worse about it.
"We should've known," said TK, hammering down on the dirt in agitation. "We let so many Digimon down."
"It was too late by the time we realized," said Shoutmon. "It couldn't be helped."
Biyomon buried his head in his feathery wings. "But if I had just stayed with them…"
"Then we would've been hurt," Kristy interjected. "This is a war… it's impossible to avoid casualties."
They knew she was right. But it was a truth that was difficult for any of them to swallow, even the one who said it. They just let the civilians grieve. Taiki, as well, had to take a moment to pray for the two partners that were lost. They knew each other for a short time so he felt guilty about not knowing what to say about them.
"Maybe… it would've been different had I left Marsmon or OmniShoutmon here to begin with," said the General. "I was blinded by the fact that the Royal Knights had big titles and the fact that Gankoomon and Duke were as strong as they were. Had I known that… Takato and Kouji would be enough..."
"Stop it," said Kouji. "None of that talk will change what happened. We have to keep moving forward."
The Tamer nodded along. "Kouji's right. We should contact the Kingdom Town… and help these guys rebuild."
"Yeah," said Taiki. "You're right…" He took a deep breath and looked up. The last of the dark clouds had long since left the blue expanse. "It sure is… a nice day."
-X-
Taiki's group was able to secure the settlement they were sent to! But not without casualties. They unfortunately lost two more partners as well as a bunch of civilians. The Chosen Children are feeling guilty but they know Kouji is right, they have to keep moving forward! So what's going on at the other settlement? We'll find out on the next Digimon: Children of the Future!
Relena: You know, this chapter felt kind of… different.
Takato: Are fight scenes getting shorter? The last two took the whole chapter.
Zero Unit: Yeah, no more of that. This story will never end if every fight scene takes that long. Anyway, we hope you all enjoyed and—.
Mimi: Happy Valentine's Day!
Zero Unit: It's a stupid holiday, what's there to celebrate!
Takuya: Hm? So I guess that means you don't want people to leave reviews like Valentine's gifts then.
Zero Unit: Happy Valentine's Day, my lovelies!
Mimi: Sellout.