Episode 11:Devil's Dealings
Alison Fox sat at her desk, fingers templed. Angemon was at her side as always, watching silently. The woman's gaze was cold, and measured as she listened to the report from her two agents. The suited man, and woman shuddered under her gaze, but did not falter as they gave her the full story.
When they finally finished, the pair kept their heads lowered, not daring to look Alison in the eyes. A long tense silence lingered in the air, as they awaited her judgement. They then heard the clatter from the wheels of her office chair, followed by her soft footsteps. Her shadow soon loomed over them, staring with cold blue eyes.
"So, Gilgamesh escaped?" Alison said, more of a statement than a question.
The suited man swallowed. "Y-yes m'am. And all of the Homonculumon that were taken with us have been destroyed."
"I see."
There was another moment of silence, before the other agent spoke up.
"M'am. There's something else. Your daughter was there." she stated. "She helped Gilgamesh, and some others to aid in his escape."
The pair heard Alison take in a sharp intake of breath. They winced at the noise, still staring at the ground.
"So, is that all?" Alison asked, her anger barely contained.
"Yes, m'am." the pair replied.
"Then, leave."
The woman looked up in bewilderment. "M'am?"
Alison narrowed her eyes. "Leave. Now. Do not make me repeat myself again."
The two agents gave a quick bow of their heads, and stood to their feet. They then shuffled off toward the door as fast they could without running. When the door closed behind them, Alison moved back to her desk, taking a seat.
"You're not going to punish them?" Angemon asked.
"In due time." Alison answered. "I have more important things to focus on. I'll have to take a different approach to capturing Gilgamesh."
"I could take care of him for you." Angemon stated, giving a slight bow. "Just simply give the word."
"I appreciate it Angemon." she replied. "But, I'm afraid you are far too conspicuous. No, I need a more subtle approach."
"I'm sure you'll come up with something, Ms. Fox." the angel said. "But, I am very curious how your daughter is involved in all this."
Alison's eyes narrowed. "Likewise, Angemon. Likewise."
Julia's car pulled up to the Mhan's home. Molly, Kai, and Liollmon then hopped out, and turned to their companions.
"I really can't thank you guys enough for your help." Molly said.
"Hey, we were happy to assist." Julia smiled.
Bellamon nodded in agreement.
"The same goes for us." Cassandra said.
"Yeah, whatevers." Impmon grumbled. "Glad things worked out."
Michael was still recovering from the harrowing experience, but gave the trio a nod all the same. Undinemon patted him on the shoulder, and turned to Molly, Kai, and Liollmon.
"Thank you."
Kai felt a wave of guilt wash over him, but nodded along with his companions. The van doors then slid closed, and Julia's car took off down the road. The trio watched it disappear as it turned down the next street, before heading toward the front door.
"Ah man, I'm beat." Molly sighed, as she stepped inside.
"Likewise." Liollmon agreed. "I'm just thankful things seemed to work out."
Kai, and Molly both nodded in agreement. The trio then headed into the living room, to find Victor, and Dobermon waiting for them. Victor glanced over to his daughter with a stern look. The intensity of the glare made all three of them take pause.
"H-hey dad, you're home early." Molly greeted with a nervous smile.
Victor stood from the couch, and turned to Kai. "Could you leave us alone? I need to have a talk with my daughter, and Liollmon."
Kai swallowed nervously, and nodded. He gave Molly, and Liollmon a worried look, before heading up the stairs. Victor watched him go, making sure he was out of sight, then turned to his daughter, and her partner.
"W-what's up dad?" Molly asked, dreading his response.
"Tell me, Molly, did you hear about the attempt on Cassandra's life?" Victor asked. "I know you two have been working together recently."
Molly's eyes widened, and she swallowed hard. Liollmon tensed beside her, already knowing exactly where this was going.
"N-no." Molly answered. "C-can't say that I did."
"Really?" Victor said, eyes narrowing. "That's odd. Considering that Strauss's report said you, and Liollmon were both there when it happened."
"Dad let me-"
Victor quickly cut her off with a glare. "I don't want to hear it young lady! You were almost killed, and didn't tell either your mother or me! You lied to us!"
"I didn't lie!" Molly argued.
"Lying by omission is still lying!" Victor roared. "You should have just told us what happened!"
Molly's hands curled into fists. "Even then I would have heard one of your stupid lectures! Telling me I shouldn't have gone to that part of town or some crap!"
"Don't you dare turn this back on me, young lady!" Victor snapped, his voice grow even louder.
"Please there's no need for all this." Liollmon interjected. "She just didn't want to wor-"
Victor quickly cut him off. "And you! You're supposed to be the responsible one! You're supposed to keep her out of trouble! But here you are being her accomplice in all this!"
Liollmon grimaced, clicking his tongue. His eyes then turned downward in shame.
Victor turned back to Molly. "You are grounded for the rest of the month. No talking with friends outside of class, no television, and no use of the internet except for studying, and other school purposes."
"You can't be fucking serious!" Molly exclaimed.
"Just for that language, you can add another week on to that!" Victor retorted.
"I am seventeen years old!" Molly shouted. "You can't treat me like this!"
"One more word of argument young lady, and I'll make it two months! Am I clear?!"
Molly glared up at him, all her muscles clenched. After several moments of tense silence, she sighed, and gave a single nod in reply.
"Good. Now go to your room." Victor commanded.
Molly stormed past him, stomping up the stairs. The entire house then echoed with the sound of her door slamming shut. Liollmon sighed with a frown, and followed after her.
Victor let out a drawn out sigh of his own. He pinched the bridge of his nose, already feeling a headache coming on. Moments later, Elena came in through the front door with a worried frown.
"I was outside gardening." she said. "I could hear both of you from the backyard."
Victor gave a noncommittal grunt in reply.
"You didn't have to be so hard on her." Elena continued. "She just didn't want to worry us. I understand."
"She still needs to realize there are consequences for these things." Victor replied. "And if I don't drill that into her, she'll never learn."
Elena frowned, and looked up toward the stairs. She then let out a deep sigh, sparing her husband a glance before heading back outside.
Francisco grumbled, as he stepped into the kitchen of his apartment. He reached into the cupboards, and pulled out a large tin of coffee. With a sigh of satisfaction he gave it a good whiff, before putting some into the coffee maker.
The machine soon began to gurgle, and sputter, creating a cloud of steam. As the coffee brewed, he grabbed a mug from another cupboard. The man then flipped on the tv, which immediately showed the news.
"Our top story this morning is a mysterious report from the west side docks." the reporter began. "Both the DDA, and police were called after eyewitnesses reported strange explosions, and flashes of light near one of the many warehouses."
Ariomon strolled into the room, as the report continued. She gave her partner a greeting good morning, before moving toward the couch.
"Upon arriving at the scene, responders found what looked to be a battleground of sorts. Littered with strange red crystals. The origin of these crystals has yet to be determined, as well the cause of the destruction nearby. Though many suspect it may have been another digital gate attack."
Francisco frowned deeply, as he poured his fresh cup of coffee. He could have been the premier source of information for that report. If it hadn't been for that damn Cassandra Fox. He should have been more careful, and come more prepared.
He took in a long sip of coffee to calm his nerves. He had to stay cool. There was no need to get worked up. This was going to be a long investigation, and he knew it. No need to get frustrated after just one setback.
After taking another swig of his drink, he walked over to his bag near the couch. He reached inside, pulling out the red stone from the alley. He rolled if over in his hand, watching it catch, and refract the light.
"I don't like that thing." Ariomon commented, pulling him from his thoughts. "Whatever those creatures were, they were unnatural."
Francisco pondered for a moment. "Well, if the DDA, and police can't figure out what they are, I think I might know some people who would."
Ariomon sighed. "We're going to talk with your black market sources aren't we?"
"Yep." Francisco answered.
"You can't keep dealing with them." Ariomon said, shaking her head. "They're dangerous. I know that better than anyone."
Francisco frowned, and rubbed the back of his neck. "Look, I know you've had some history with that part of humanity. I don't like them anymore than you do. But if we're gonna get anywhere with this case, they're one of our only shots."
Ariomon turned away, looking thoughtful for a moment. Her partner then moved to sit at her side, placing a hand on her back. She flinched at the contact, but didn't recoil.
"Trust me. I'll be careful." he assured. "If you don't want to go with me, you don't have to."
"That's not really much of a choice." Ariomon growled. "Either I go with you, despite my misgivings, or you go on your own, and most likely get hurt, or worse."
Francisco sighed. "Look, you're right. I'm sorry. I'll try, and follow another lead, okay?"
Ariomon pondered for a moment, before letting out a heavy sigh. "Fine. If figuring out this story means that much to you."
"Are you sure?"
She nodded. "Just promise me not to get too involved in whatever dealings they might be up to."
"Hey, don't worry." Francisco assured. "Getting caught up in some criminal fiasco is the last thing I want."
"So, when do we head out?" Ariomon asked, after several moments.
"Let me at least finish my coffee." Francisco answered. "Then, as a thank you for going with me on this, I'll take you to get pancakes."
Ariomon's ears perked. "All I can eat?"
"All you can eat." the man chuckled.
Molly flopped onto the bed, staring up at the ceiling. She had just returned home from school, still in uniform. The girl frowned deeply, as she recalled stepping out of the school grounds.
Liollmon had been there as usual, but standing by his side was a suited man. At first the girl had thought he was another agent after Kai. However, he was quick to dismiss that notion, showing off his DDA badge.
He was an aide, asked by her father to be an 'escort'. Molly had immediately felt her blood boil. She knew this was an attempt by her father to make sure she abided by her punishment.
It was infuriating.
Despite her misgivings, she went home with the agent in tow. Once he had been sure she was back home safe, he stood outside, keeping an eye on the property.
"Escort my ass." Molly grumbled. "More like babysitter."
"I didn't think your father would go this far." Liollmon commented, looking out the window.
"Well I'm not too surprised honestly." Molly sighed. "He's probably even got some shit to monitor my internet activity or something crazy like that."
"You really think so?" her partner asked, quirking a brow.
"I wouldn't put it past him." she answered, sitting up from the bed. "Guess I could always ask Kai to borrow a book or something. Not much else I can do."
After changing out of her uniform, Molly walked down the hall to Kai's room, knocking on the door. When she heard no response, she knocked again. But still, there was no reply.
With a shrug, she cracked open the door, before swinging it open. She found the room empty, with no sign of her friend. A few new books were stacked on the room's desk, but otherwise, nothing was out of place.
After searching the rest of the house, she stepped out into the backyard. Outside, she found Kai, standing stock still, eyes closed. If she looked carefully, she could see the subtle heat distortion coming off of his body.
With great trepidation she approached, making sure to make her presence known. Kai's eyes opened as she neared, and for a moment they glowed with fiery light. It then slowly disappeared, as Kai exhaled.
"What...was that?" Molly asked.
"I still don't know." Kai answered. "The power inside me I suppose. I'm trying my best to control it."
Molly nodded in understanding. "And, how's that going?"
"I can't call on it on demand." he answered. "It's a lot harder to do when I'm not in some kind of danger."
"Anymore new memories?"
Kai recalled the flash of memory he saw upon seeing Cassandra. The memory was still vague, and faded. He wanted something more concrete before commenting on it.
"No." he answered. "There is something else though. The people who captured Michael. They kept calling me, 'Gilgamesh'"
"Yeah I remember that." Molly nodded. "Do you know what it means?"
"I looked into it." Kai replied. "Apparently, Gilgamesh, was the name of a legendary sumerian king. He was supposedly a demigod, and his story, 'The Epic Of Gilgamesh', is the oldest known work of literature."
Molly vaguely recalled hearing about the story in history class once. She couldn't really recall the details though. Since it was several years ago. That, and she probably hadn't paid too much attention to the lesson in the first place.
"You don't want me to start calling you that, do you?" she asked, trying to relieve some tension.
"No." Kai chuckled, shaking his head. "I like the name you gave me."
Molly smiled at that. "Anyway, I was looking for you. I was wondering if I could borrow a book." She sighed, frowning. "I can't really do much else but read."
Kai nodded. "Go ahead, take whatever one you want. I've already read most of them a couple of times."
Molly blinked. "Is super fast reading another one of your super powers?"
"Maybe." Kai shrugged. "There's still a lot I don't understand about all this." He frowned, looking down at his hands. "I still don't even know what I am."
"Hey, I promised I'd help you figure things out." Molly assured. "And trust me, we will."
"I appreciate it." Kai smiled.
He paused for a moment, pondering.
"Can I ask you a favor?"
"Sure, go ahead." Molly answered.
"Can you give me Julia, and Cassandra's contact info?"
The girl blinked in surprise, momentarily taken aback. After recovering, she replied.
"Sure. But, why?"
Kai turned to her. "I gave it some thought. I'm going to tell them all the truth. Same with Micheal, and Undinemon."
Molly eyes widened in surprise. "Are you sure?"
"Whether I like it or not, they're involved now." he replied. "They deserve to know the situation."
"What if one of them spills your secret?!" Molly exclaimed "The DDA could come after you."
"Do you think any of them would do that?" Kai asked.
Molly faltered for a moment. "N-no. I guess not."
"Besides, who would believe such a crazy story anyway?" Kai joked.
He put on a brave smile, but he was still a bit trepidatious about the whole thing. Despite that, he had made his decision, and he was sticking to it.
"Okay." Molly nodded. "I just wish I could be there with you. I'd ask Liollmon to go, but he's still not your biggest fan."
"I'll be fine, but I appreciate it."
Cassandra buttoned the collar of her shirt, checking herself in the mirror. She then straightened any creases or obvious wrinkles.
"I don't why you obsess over your look so much." Impmon commented, slipping on his jacket.
"Some of us like to look sharp." Cassandra replied. "We can't all pull off the weathered leather jacket look."
"You never know until ya try!" Impmon smiled.
"The day I wear a biker jacket is the day hell freezes over." the girl stated.
"Not even if it was one of those cool ones with fur on the collar?"
A small smile crossed her lips. "I might consider it then."
"I always wanted one of those!" the demon exclaimed. "We can match! Then we'd just need a sick bike!"
"You're too short to drive a motorcycle."
"Why you gotta crush a mans dreams?" Impmon sniffled, flicking a fake tear from his eye.
Cassandra simply rolled her eyes, and headed out the door, with Impmon following after. The pair entered the main room, and Cassandra moved to the call terminal. She put in a quick order to the kitchens for lunch, and took her seat next to Impmon.
It didn't take long for the Fox's head chef, Colette, and a server to arrive. They each placed a covered dish before the pair, before revealing what lay underneath. A steaming bowl of soup, with a fresh half loaf of bread.
"French onion soup, and fresh garlic herb bread." Colette stated. "I hope it's to your liking, Cassandra."
Cassandra turned to her with a smile. "In all the years I've known you, you haven't made a single dish I didn't like."
"You flatter me." the chef said with a bow.
Colette, and her companion then took their leave, and headed through the service elevator. Once the pair were out of sight, Cassandra dug into her meal. Impmon had already started scarfing his down as soon as it was put in front of him.
"One of these days you're going to choke." Cassandra sighed, slurping up some soup.
"I can't help it if the grub is good here." Impmon replied, mouth full.
As Cassandra was halfway through her meal, she heard the front door. She, and Impmon turned, to see Alison, and Angemon enter. The digimon moved to call for Alison's meal, as the older woman took a seat at the table.
"Good afternoon, Cassandra, Impmon." she greeted.
"Afternoon, mother." her daughter replied.
Impmon gave a grunt in reply.
"So, you seem to be busy as of late." Alison began, turning to Cassandra. "Any particular reason?"
Cassandra kept her cool as she answered. "I've simply made some new friends. That, and I've been busy with a large class project."
"I see." Alison nodded, putting on a false smile. "Forgive me for prying. I've just been a bit worried about you since the attempt on your life. Perhaps I should have Gerard start keeping a closer eye on you for times like that."
Cassandra took the last bite of her meal, standing from her seat. "I appreciate the concern mother, but that won't be necessary."
"Yeah, I'm all the security she needs." Impmon smirked.
"I'm going out for my free hours mother." said Cassandra. "So we'll be leaving."
"Very well." Alison replied. "Don't forget you have two important appointments today. I expect you to be on time."
Cassandra simply nodded, and moved toward the entrance. Impmon gave Alison a dirty look, before following after her.
Alison's kind smile disappeared as soon as the two were out of sight. Angemon then moved to her side.
"She's a very good liar." Alison stated.
"She did learn from the best." Angemon offered.
Alison chuckled at that. "I know she's somehow involved in all this. The question is, how much does she know?"
"Perhaps depending on how things play out, she might give us an advantage." Angemon said.
"I like the way you think, Angemon."
Francisco drove down the highway, with Ariomon in the passenger seat.
"I still don't know how you can eat so many pancakes." Francisco sighed. "My wallet is aching."
"When you say all you can eat, I'm going to take advantage." she smiled.
"But, five stacks?!" he exclaimed. "How are you not sick?"
"I always have room for pancakes."
"Apparently." the man frowned.
The pair turned down a nearby side street. All the buildings around them slowly became more run down as they went. Graffiti, along with layers of dirt, and grime covered everything. Trash, and other refuse littered the cracked, and wet concrete. The people that did walk about seemed to always be wary of their surroundings.
Francisco found a free spot, and parked on the side of the street. After stepping out, he made sure to double check the doors. Then, he activated his car's built in security system. Anyone that touched it for longer than 30 seconds would receive a painful but harmless shock. He wasn't taking any chances in this neighborhood. .
As the two walked, Ariomon kept a wary eye about. She opened all her senses, electricity occasionally crackling across her fur. Francisco did much the same, scanning from side to side. He kept his hand in his pocket, gripped around a knife he used for self defense.
After walking down two blocks, the pair came to what looked like a pawn shop. The bell above the door rang, as they stepped inside. A musty smell filled the air, wafting from the various dusty trinkets, and antiques that littered the shelves.
Francisco moved to the register, where an old man sat behind the counter. He was reading over a holo screen in front him. The reporter cleared his throat, getting the man's attention.
"Can I help you with something?" the old man asked with a sigh.
"I have a very special item that I want looked at." Francisco replied, patting his bag.
"Well, put it on the counter then, and I'll take a crack at it."
Francisco's eyes shifted from side to side. "Not here. I was hoping we could go to the 'back room.' This item is very special."
The old man's eyes suddenly narrowed. He then gave both, Francisco, and Ariomon a once over.
"Password?" the old man asked.
"Inferno." Francisco answered.
The old man nodded at that, and unlatched part of the counter, swinging it upward. He then pointed a thumb behind him, motioning his head.
Francisco, and Ariomon followed him through a curtain, leading to a set of stairs. The trio headed downward, dropping at least thirty feet below street level. They then came to an iron door, with a small slot at eye level. The old man rapped on the door several times, and the slot swung open.
"These two are looking to get an item 'appraised'." the old man said, gesturing with a thumb.
There was a growl on the other side of the door, followed by the clicking of locks. The iron door then swung open. Beyond, stood a tall digimon made of black flame. Their body was in the shape of a humanoid lizard, with a golden metal mask.
The digimon growled, and motioned Francisco, and Ariomon inside. They nodded, and moved past the fiery digimon, leaving the old man behind. After being lead past a hall of several doors, the fire digimon came to a stop. He gestured to the door in front of them, and stood to the side.
Francisco knocked on it softly.
"Come in." a voice answered from within.
The reporter stepped inside, his partner following. They came into a small office with a long black desk. Stacks of files, and papers were arranged neatly atop it, along with a top of the line computer.
Behind the desk, was a man with slicked back, dark hair. A pair of rounded, red glasses framed his face. His black suit was crisp, and sharp, accentuated by his blood red tie.
"Well, well, if it isn't mister Suarez." the man smiled. "What a pleasant surprise."
"Hello, Alastor." Francisco greeted professionally.
Alastor looked down to Ariomon. "Good to see you too, Ariomon."
"The feeling isn't mutual." Ariomon snapped.
Alastor chuckled at that. "So, what can I do you for?"
Francisco took a seat at one of the chairs in front of the desk. He reached into his bag, pulling out the red gemstone eye. Alastor's eyes widened slightly as he looked at the crimson stone.
"I was hoping you could analyze this for me." Francisco said. "I wanna know anything you can tell me about it."
Alastor let out a low whistle. "And where did you get your hands on something like this? I heard the DDA picked up a bunch of'em over at the dock incident."
"I have my ways." Francisco replied.
Alastor picked up the stone, and examined it closely. He could faintly see bits of code shining inside. Random strings of zeros, and ones that flowed endlessly.
"It'll take some time, but I'm sure I could have results in a few days." he said, setting it down. "We don't work for free around here though."
"If it's money you want, I'm willing to pay." Francisco replied. "You know I'm good for it."
Alastor held up a hand. "We don't want your money, Suarez. The boss actually had a special request just for you."
Ariomon's eyes narrowed at that, fur crackling. Francisco felt a twinge of anxiety as well, but tried to keep his cool.
"Oh?" the reporter smirked. "The big man, Astamon himself, wants something from me? I'm flattered. What's he after?"
"You're a reporter right?" the man began. "We were hoping you could do some reporting for us. Dig up some dirt on a certain somebody. So we can y'know, keep'em in check."
"I don't do blackmail." Francisco answered.
He realized how hypocritical he sounded in that moment. But he didn't care. The thought of working for scum like Astamon made his stomach turn.
"Oh, come on don't be that way." Alastor smiled. "You like doing actual reporting right? This is the kind of stuff you'd be doing anyway."
Francisco stood from his seat. "There's a difference. When I write reports about city corruption, I do it for the benefit of the people. Not for crime syndicates."
Alastor sighed. "You're sure there's nothing I can do to change your mind?"
"Yeah, I'm sure." the reporter replied sternly. "I think I'll be taking my rock, and leaving."
"Fraid I can't let ya do that, Suarez." Alastor frowned. "I'll be keeping the stone. You're not gonna be needing it."
The man raised a hand, and snapped his fingers. "DarkLizardmon, take care of'em."
Before Francisco or Ariomon could react, the fiery digimon from before burst into the room off to the pair's right. Alastor quickly took cover behind his desk, and the dark digimon's body crackled with more fire.
"Dread Flame!"
At his call, a wave of black fire poured off of his body. Ariomon moved into the attacks path, her body sparking with electricity.
"Static Field!"
Several bolts of lightning flew from her body, forming into a sphere of electromagnetic energy. It finished completing just as the surge of black fire struck. It washed over the barrier, the force of it sending the shield rolling like a marble, with Francisco, and Ariomon inside. It smashed through the wall behind them, along with the flames ,and out into the streets.
Francisco groaned, rising to his feet. "Well that went south real quick."
Ariomon dismissed her barrier. "I'll say I told you so later."
With a growl, Darklizardmon stepped out from the newly made hole. Alastor stood behind him, watching with cold eyes. Screams of terror, and panic filled the air, as everyone nearby scrambled to get away from the battle about to take place.
"This is your last chance Suarez!" Alastor roared. "Just do what I asked, and we can put this behind us! Otherwise, my buddy here is gonna roast you and your partner alive."
"Shove it up your ass!" Francisco shouted back.
"Have it your way." Alastor shrugged. "Burn'em to a crisp."
"Dread Flame!" Darklizardmon called.
As the wave of fire hurtled toward them, Ariomon readied another barrier. Taking a gamble, Francisco stopped her with an outstretched hand. He then moved beside her, directly in the path of the flames.
"Imminent danger detected. Digivolution limiters released." his digivice droned.
Ariomon burst into a flash of light just as the flames struck. The sudden release of energy pushed back the flames, sending them flying in every direction.
"Ariomon digivolve to...Bucephalumon!"
The giant binocorn's nostrils flared, and she stamped her hooves. Francisco sighed in relief that his gamble paid off, looking up to her with a smile. Alastor clicked his tongue in annoyance, and motioned toward the pair.
DarkLizardmon roared, and charged at Bucephalumon. She rushed to meet him, and the pair smashed into each other with great force. For several moments they pushed against one another, using all their bulk, and strength. The horses hooves, and fiery digimon's claws dug into the concrete below.
Eventually the binocorn won out, and shoved the other champion aside. After staggering back several yards, DarkLizardmon regained his footing, and called forth a wave of flame.
"Storme Quake!" Bucepahlumon yelled.
As the horse slammed down her hooves, a shockwave of electrical energy ripped through the ground. The two attacks collided, creating an explosion of fire, and lightning.
DarkLizardmon charged through the explosion, their claws bared. He lashed out, cutting three long gashes across Bucephalumon's front. The horse snorted, and reared up, retaliating with a pair of powerful hoof kicks.
As the two clashed, Alastor reached into his suit jacket. His hand gripped tightly on the knife there, and he dashed toward Francisco. The reporter saw the flash of his blade, and drew his own knife. He then leapt back, avoiding his attacker's slash.
"Oh? You looking to take me on in a knife fight?" Alastor smirked. "You honestly think a pencil pusher like you can beat a pro?"
Francisco flipped his knife into a reverse grip. "I don't have to beat you. I just have to hold you off, until my partner is done with sparky over there."
Alastor narrowed his eyes, and thrusted forward with his blade. Francisco barely dodged in time, the edge of the blade catching his cheek. The reporter tried to counter, by catching the other man's arm, but was quickly struck by a powerful kick.
Francisco staggered back, clutching his side. Alastor seized his chance, and thrusted again. The other man ducked under the attack this time, and thrusted upward with the butt of his knife. It smashed into Alastor's chin, momentarily stunning the man.
The two then squared off, holding their blades. Alastor scanned his opponent, not wanting to underestimate him a second time.
Bucephalumon leapt back to dodge another claw swipe. She then charged forward, intent on running him through with her horns. DarkLizardmon leapt into the air to dodge, and called forth a wave of flame down on her.
The horse digimon slammed down her hooves, summoning a shockwave to the meet the attack. The two energies clashed again with the same result as before. Just as the smoke cleared, Darklizardmon came back down to land, readying his claws.
Bucephalumon's nostrils flared, and yellow electricity crackled off of her body. Slowly, she backed up, before charging at full speed.
"Thundering Stampede!"
The electricity around her body formed into a thin layer around her. As she ran, more of it spread to either side of her, creating a pair of large shapes. Soon, it formed into two phantom clones, made of pure lightning.
DarkLizardmon's eyes widened as the three horses barreled toward him. He let loose another wave of flame, but the stampede ran straight through. With the force of a freight train, the binocorn, and her phantoms smashed into the other champion. He was quickly knocked to the ground, and trampled underfoot.
The fiery digimon lay battered, and broken on the ground. His body then slowly began to dissolve, scattering into the air.
Some distance away, Francisco narrowly dodged another thrust of Alastor's knife. Two more small cuts now adorned his body. Near misses from their previous clashes.
Before the mobster could move in for another, he heard the thundering of hooves. He turned, to see Bucephalumon barreling toward him. The man paled, and rushed back into the building behind him.
"Are you alright?" Bucephalumon asked.
"I'll be fine." Francisco answered. "Just some scratches. Nothing serious."
The horse was enrobed in light, transforming into her rookie form. "We should make ourselves scarce."
"One thing first."
Francisco moved through the hole in the building. After a quick cursory glance, he found the red stone on the floor. He quickly snatched it up, and stuffed it into his bag. The pair then headed off toward Francisco's car, before any more trouble decided to show up.
Author's Notes
So, after much thought I've decided to put this story on indefinite hiatus. Thinking about having to commit another 3 years of my life to another single fanfic is just too daunting. I would rather focus on shorter projects, and work on my own original works. I don't know if I'll ever return to this story. I deeply apologize to anyone who was looking forward to reading it. It really pains me to do this, but I just do not have the passion for this story anymore. I've just burned myself out on digimon for a while. I will be posting the other chapters I have rough drafted, but after that, the story will officially go into hiatus. Again, I am very sorry, and I hope you will enjoy what other projects I have in store.