(Author's Notes: Here's Chapter 18. I'm going to start going back and editing the old chapters of A Dragon in Shining Armour with minor changes to the names and some other things that have been bugging me. Anyways, enjoy the chapter!)
Chapter 18: Escalation
A stark, quiet ambience lingered in the Royal Knights' council room. A meeting had been called to discuss recent events and what to do about them.
All twelve Royal Knights sat around the round, white table in the center of the room. The Captains of the four forces stood (or hovered) behind the Royal Knights. Each held a teacup and tea saucer in the hands or claws – even Grani skillfully held them with claw like arms, using a blend of perfect balance and the ring-like handle on the side of the teacup.
There was an atmosphere of anticipation in the grey room. Each Royal Knight waited as Imperialdramon Paladin Mode walked around the table with a few large kettles, pouring them each a cup of their preferred tea individually. The founder of the Order wore a blithe smile on his face as he took his time pouring the drinks. He even made sure to ask whether each Digimon wanted cream and sugar.
Some of the Royal Knights were happy to go along with it, but others were impatiently waiting for the meeting to begin.
Duftmon had his arms folded and his eyes closed, quietly waiting for the meeting to begin, although he really did enjoy tea. Alphamon, Craniamon, and Dynasmon were also eager to start the meeting. The rest of the Royal Knights didn't mind waiting and were happy to have some tea.
"Thank you, Imperialdramon," Sleipmon said with a smile as his teacup was filled with the warm, orange liquid.
"You're welcome, my dear Sleipmon," Imperialdramon Paladin Mode said light-heartedly.
Sitting beside Sleipmon, Gankoomon prodded the delicate teacup in front of him disdainfully. "I never know what to do with these dainty, flimsy teacups…" he stated dismissively. "I always use a tea bowl. That's how real men drink tea!"
"I think we have those too," Imperialdramon responded, stopping and thinking back to where the tea equipment was stored. "I can get you one, if you'd pref—"
"Gankoomon will be fine," Alphamon assured him. He looked over at Gankoomon with meaningful eyes and urged him not to complain so that they could finally start the meeting.
Gankoomon rolled his eyes behind his visor. "Yeah, fine… Green tea, please. Thanks, Imperialdramon. And I drink it straight." he replied, watching as the white-armoured dragon man walked over and carefully poured him his emerald-hued tea.
"And last but not least…' Imperialdramon Paladin Mode said, walking over to Alphamon and flashing him a teasing grin. "I already know what you take, oh, Aloof Hermit. It involves anchovies and lime juice. Or have you moved onto new realms like natto and seared eel?"
"Ugh," Ouryumon groaned after he took a sip of tea from his cup. "Please don't enable his weird drinking habits, Imperialdramon. You'll make me sick. It's hard enough to get Alphamon to drink tea and coffee normally."
Imperialdramon: Paladin Mode laughed, but the rest of the Royal Knights stayed decidedly quiet at his words.
Alphamon rolled his eyes as well, but couldn't help but smile. "Red tea with a drop of cream, even though I won't be able to maximize the flavour without such additives," he stated, giving Ouryumon a playful, sparring look. The Royal Knight then looked up at the blue dragon man. "Can we finally begin now?" he dryly asked Imperialdramon.
Imperialdramon Paladin Mode chuckled and began pouring Alphamon's red tea. "You're being more aloof than usual today. I'm nearly done…" he said, concentrating. He finished pouring the tea and then added a drop of cream. Next, the dragon man Digimon placed the kettles on the table and patted Alphamon's shoulder. "Okay, go ahead."
"Why, thank you," Alphamon spoke with a dry undertone. He glanced up at the sky blue dragon paladin who stood between Omegamon and himself. "I suppose we should start with the biggest issue."
"You mean how the D-Brigade took Haganemame City yesterday?" Dukemon asked, having already heard from Grani.
Imperialdramon Paladin Mode folded his arms and nodded. "I heard about that while I was up in Saversburg," he explained. "I was initially surprised that you guys didn't intervene, but then I heard about what happened to the Locomon."
Grani dipped his beak into the teacup and took a polite sip. "Yes... Due to the derailing, we were unable to consider transporting our forces quickly enough to intervene against the Metal Empire," he explained, floating behind Dukemon.
Duftmon lightly tapped his finger against the teacup in his hand. "I suspect that the D-Brigade sabotaged the railway in order to delay our advance north to Saversburg and the Mamemon Kingdom. It effectively delayed our intervention until after they captured Haganemame City. It is a clever, if unscrupulous tactic," the tactician explained.
Dukemon narrowed his eyes. "But to attack a Locomon carrying innocent passengers…" he disdainfully said, clenching his fist.
"This is who we're dealing with," Craniamon stated, his glowing, red eyes hardening. "The D-Brigade uses cowardly, underhanded means."
"Digimon are working on getting Locomon back on the rails and fixing the track, but it should take some time," Grani explained.
"What should we do?" UlforceVeedramon asked. "Should we bother getting involved? PrinceMamemon was kind of asking for it, after all… Besides, now that he's out of power, won't the Metal Empire settle down? It might not be a good idea to provoke them after they got what they want."
"Should we let the Digimon of the Mamemon Kingdom suffer because of the idiocy of one Digimon?" Magnamon challenged. "Besides, we can't let them get away with their actions, after everything they've done."
"Fair point, I guess," the azure Royal Knight submitted. "Still, what do we do now that they've taken Haganemame City?"
Alphamon closed his eyes in thought. "I'm reluctant to commit to a full scale battle if we don't have to. Especially after what happened last time," he mused.
"I will not fail this time," Duftmon assured them. "We mustn't let the Metal Empire do as they please. To do so would give them an incentive to conquer more. We must make it clear to them and any others that this is unacceptable. The justice of the Royal Knights is absolute. Our power - our justice - must be respected."
Alphamon opened the golden orbs of his eyes and turned them towards Duftmon. "I know, Duftmon. And you have a point," he admitted. "We shouldn't let ourselves be seen to be pushed around by Chaosdramon and his D-Brigade. It would set a bad precedent for others. However, I don't want to go storming into Haganemame City and put a lot of innocent Digimon in danger just for our own sake."
"There are other options," Imperialdramon: Paladin Mode pointed, running his claws through his blond hair.
Omegamon looked at Imperialdramon: Paladin Mode and nodded. "Perhaps we can advance to Saversburg to put pressure on the D-Brigade, and then see how they react?" he suggested.
"That seems like a good plan to me," RhodoKnightmon spoke, folding his arms. "It may coax the Metal Empire out of the Mamemon Kingdom and provoke them to attack us."
"Given the size and power of the D-Brigade, we may need to use our military and a majority of us Royal Knights," Examon pointed out, thinking about it in logical terms.
"I'm ready for round two," Dynasmon stated, punching his large fist into the palm of his other hand.
"The Strike Forces are ready and willing," Ouryumon spoke, looking over at Alphamon.
"As are the Defence Forces," Knightmon concurred.
Alphamon stroked his chin. "Well… That sounds like it may be our best idea, Omegamon. I'd like to see how the situation progresses if we go up there," he spoke. He looked around at the table. "Why don't we put it to a vote? All those in favour?"
All twelve of the Royal Knights raised their hands in favour of the idea. Imperialdramon: Paladin Mode also held up his hand.
The black armoured leader of the Royal Knights turned and looked up at the white and blue paladin. "If you want a vote, you have to officially join the Order, Imperialdramon," he teased him.
Imperialdramon Paladin Mode chuckled and shrugged. "Hey, you guys have twelve members. What if there's a six-six split? Unless you get a new member, that means I'll have to come down here whenever you need a tiebreaker," he pointed out.
"Hmm, you do have a point," Sleipmon mused, thinking about it. "It's never come up so far, but it could happen."
"I suppose so," Alphamon replied, admitting that Imperialdramon was right about that. "However, now isn't the time to be thinking about that. I'm sure if we end up in a stalemate scenario, we can think of a temporary solution."
Gankoomon nodded and folded his arms. "That's what rock-paper-scissors is for," he declared.
Alphamon gave Gankoomon a look that told him exactly what he thought of that idea. "I'm sure that we can do better than that…" he flatly replied. "Anyways… it's decided. We'll begin preparations for advancing north to Saversburg. We should speak with the Council of Seven and the mayor of Saversburg about this first, though. While we're going to do this regardless, it would be better to have their tacit approval so that we don't put them in an awkward situation."
"That seems reasonable," Omegamon agreed, looking at Alphamon.
Dukemon nodded. "Okay!" he declared, standing to his feet. "So, I guess we need to come up with a plan." He turned and looked at the four Captains. "You guys okay with this?"
"Yes, Sir!" Knightmon declared, saluting.
"You bet, Dukemon," Ouryumon agreed, levelling a toothy smirk from the other side of the table.
"Of course," Grani calmly agreed.
Karatenmon placed his hands on his hips and grinned. "The Stealth Forces are good to go," he affirmed as well.
Alphamon smiled. "Good," he spoke. "Thank you. Let's convene for now and we can begin devising our strategy tomorrow."
"Before that—may I, Alphamon?" Duftmon asked the Knight of the Empty Seat. Upon seeing Alphamon nod, he looked at Imperialdramon: Paladin Mode. "How is the Dark Area discussion going in Saversburg?"
Imperialdramon: Paladin Mode smiled in response. "It's going rather well, actually. The first week was pretty rough, but after that first hurdle, we've started making good progress. We're discussing the possibility of a com—"
The founder of the Royal Knights was interrupted when the double doors of the council room swung open loudly. Everybody stopped what they were doing and turned to look at the unannounced Digimon.
"HELP ME, MY ROYAL LOYAL KNIGHTS!" PrinceMamemon sputtered, stumbling into the council room. He was out of breath and his large, yellow cheeks were a deep crimson. He looked like he was about to cry.
An annoyed silence swept through the council room.
"…PrinceMamemon?" Alphamon asked incredulously.
"Alphamon! It's horrible!" PrinceMamemon cried out, wandering shakily towards the round table.
"Sir, you can't go in there!" a black KnightChessmon castle guard spoke, looking at the Royal Knights apologetically as he followed the large monarch inside. "I'm sorry. He walked straight past us…"
Alphamon sighed. "It's fine. We will allow it," he explained, albeit with obvious reluctance.
"Sir," KnightChessmon replied, turning around and walking back into the great hall, closing the doors behind him.
"Hello there," Imperialdramon: Paladin Mode greeted, smiling and waving amicably at PrinceMamemon.
"It's horrible! Horrible!" PrinceMamemon declared, walking around the table towards Alphamon on the opposite side. As he approached, he grabbed hold of Omegamon's cape and blew his nose on it. "Alphamon, do something!" he begged.
Omegamon's eye twitched and he looked over his shoulder at the large Mamemon standing behind him. "…What… seems to be the problem?" he asked, trying not to sound too irritated.
"Tea?" Imperialdramon offered.
"Yes, please! Lots of sugar!" PrinceMamemon replied, sniffling and twiddling his fingers. "And I have been forced out of my own home!"
"Oh? Go on," the white-armoured dragon man asked, going to pour some tea for the distressed Digimon.
"What exactly happened?" Alphamon questioned. "We heard that the D-Brigade took over Haganemame City."
"They did!" PrinceMamemon exclaimed, taking the cup of tea and sipping it. He immediately recoiled and his face scrunched up. "It's too hot! Mercuremon always made my tea cooler than—Wah! Mercuremon! My loyal servant! How could he?!" he suddenly cried, tears welling in his eyes again.
Omegamon sighed when PrinceMamemon grabbed his cape again and wiped his face on it. "What's wrong…?"
"Mercuremon… He betrayed me!" PrinceMamemon announced, now clutching the white and red cape like a security blanket. "He betrayed the Mamemon Kingdom to the Metal Empire!"
Magnamon blinked. "Mercuremon? Your advisor? But why?"
"I don't know! He has always been so loyal and hard-working!" PrinceMamemon replied, sniffing hard. "The last time I saw him, he said that he wanted to take over the Mamemon Kingdom for himself! The Metal Empire must have brainwashed him! Yes, that's it!"
The Royal Knights exchanged glances. "How did he betray you?" Examon inquired for further details.
"I believe he told our army to surrender to the Metal Empire so the D-Brigade could march right in unopposed…" PrinceMamemon replied.
"That may have been the smartest decision anyways," Duftmon explained. "There is no way that your army could have defeated the D-Brigade."
"E-Even so! He then led Raijinmon, Suijinmon, and Fujinmon straight to my palace!" PrinceMamemon explained. "Th-They said I either had to leave or be arrested!"
"You should consider yourself lucky," Dukemon stated, folding his arms. "Metal Empire prisons aren't fun."
"Lucky? But my kingdom's gone! I'm the king!" PrinceMamemon protested pathetically. "My people need me! You need to help me take it back!"
"We have already discussed that. We'll see, PrinceMamemon," Alphamon explained to him.
"But you must! I'm your king!" PrinceMamemon stated.
Alphamon fixed a stern stare with PrinceMamemon that caused the monarch to hide behind Omegamon. "PrinceMamemon… I'm sorry to be blunt, but I need to make this perfectly clear to you," Alphamon began, his voice firm and commanding. "We are the Royal Knights. We have no kings. We are subordinate only to justice, righteousness, and Yggdrasil." He looked straight into PrinceMamemon in order to emphasize his words. "Whatever we choose to do, it is our decision, not yours. As the Lord of the Empty Seat, I will not risk my friends' lives on somebody else's wishes. Do you understand me? You have already dragged us into one conflict through your recklessness. It is up to us what we will do now."
PrinceMamemon half-heartedly opened his mouth to protest, but quickly thought better of it. He grimaced as Alphamon's words sunk in, and he nodded. "Y… Yes, Alphamon… I understand…" he weakly responded.
"As a leader, it is your job to understand that the weight of your decisions affects those who work under you," Alphamon advised him. "The Mamemon Kingdom may be small, but do not take your actions lightly or for the wrong reasons."
"Yes… Well… I'm not a leader anymore, am I?" PrinceMamemon said with a deflated sigh. He plopped down on the floor and sulked noticeably.
"Was he ever one to begin with?" UlforceVeedramon whispered to Craniamon in jest.
"Certainly doesn't act like it," Craniamon muttered back.
Unaware of the quiet joking at his expense, PrinceMamemon turned to Alphamon with sombre, needy eyes. "May I stay here for the time being? I have nowhere else to go…" he questioned in a feeble, demoralized voice.
"I'm sorry, PrinceMamemon. I can't allow that," Alphamon responded apologetically. "If you stayed here, it would look like we were harbouring you and imply that we have been working together all along. I know that the Metal Empire has already attacked us, but we can't afford to give them any reason."
"B-But what if they're after me?!" PrinceMamemon exclaimed, his voice quivering with fear.
"Isn't there anything we can do, Alphamon?" Magnamon asked, unable to help but feel bad for him. "We have to do something…"
Alphamon sighed and rubbed the back of his head. "…We can pay for lodgings in Knights' Cross. You'll have armed bodyguards to protect you, though if the Metal Empire gave you the option to leave on your free will, I doubt you'll need them. But still, if it makes you feel secure…"
"Thank you. That will do," PrinceMamemon replied, obviously relieved, but still very much deflated. He grabbed hold of Omegamon's chair and used it to help pull himself to his feet. "In that case, I shall wander around until somebody is ready to take me there."
The royal Mamemon bowed to the Royal Knights and then walked around the table. He stepped up to the closed double doors and prepared to open them. As he raised his hands to pull the doors open and walk out into the great hall, he took a deep breath.
Just as PrinceMamemon began to pull the doors, they suddenly burst open from the other side. PrinceMamemon released a surprised wail as the doors opened in his face and he was sent rolling unceremoniously across the floor.
Everybody immediately looked to see what had happened. To their shock, they saw Dorbickmon push the doors open and stagger into the stone council room.
Dorbickmon had a wild look in his draconic eyes. His sweat-laced chest was heaving and his body looked wracked from exhaustion. Dark blood was crusted onto his snout and neck, dried against his scales. His face was bruised and swollen, and he bore his rows of teeth in anger and pain. After a few steps into the council room, Dorbickmon's legs buckled and he fell to his hands and knees.
"Dorbickmon!" Examon exclaimed with worry. He stood up from his seat and rushed over to Dorbickmon to check on him.
Karatenmon observed him with a furrowed gaze – Dorbickmon was working as a spy for him, so he couldn't help but feel concerned as well. "Dorbickmon, what happened to you?" he asked him. Unlike usually, his voice was calm and deadly serious. It was times like this that his ninja instincts kicked in.
Alphamon frowned and rose to his feet. "Are you hurt?" he asked the large, crimson dragon man.
"N-No, I'm fine," PrinceMamemon responded, lying on his back and rubbing his face.
"I think he meant Dorbick-kun," UlforceVeedramon pointed out with levity in his voice.
Examon placed his claws on Dorbickmon's shoulders and gently tried to help him to his feet. "We need to get him to Duskmon," he said to the other Royal Knights.
Dorbickmon released a tired and guttural snarl. "I'm fine, Examon. Now quit lookin' at me like that, already," he grunted dismissively. The dragon mercenary pulled himself to his feet and stood on uneven footing, making a point to not let himself be supported.
"You're hurt. You need to get checked out," Examon insisted, insisting on holding Dorbickmon steady. He looked him over for visible wounds.
"Later," Dorbickmon replied, trying to pull his bicep away from Examon.
Karatenmon stepped forward. "Dorbickmon, what happened?" the raven man asked him again.
"Black Pincer Company found me out. They somehow realised I was working for you guys. Dunno how," Dorbickmon responded gruffly between breaths, glancing up at Karatenmon.
The avian spymaster frowned. "Your cover was compromised?" he questioned.
Dorbickmon brought a hand to his sore, bruised face. "Yeah… The three damn bugs announced that I was a Royal Knight informant in a busy bar in Shroud. You can imagine that went over well…" he grunted, folding his arms and looking away indignantly. "The whole bar swarmed me. I just barely escaped."
"That must have been something," Ouryumon stated, smirking faintly at the idea.
"Damn," Gankoomon said, folding his arms. "That won't go away anytime soon. You'll probably have a bounty on your head."
"You're telling me…" Dorbickmon answered with a sigh. "News like this gets around fast. I can say goodbye to Shroud, Dark Point, and my other usuals for awhile. Hell, I doubt I can even go back to Dragon's Peak..."
Karatenmon winced. "I'm sorry, Dorbickmon. I shouldn't have asked you to go after Black Pincer Company so regularly. I should have expected them to realise when they're being tailed." The spymaster lightly bowed. "I made a mistake."
Dorbickmon released a half-growl, half-exhale as he shook his head. "Forget it. S'my own damn fault. I was probably too obvious. I knew I wasn't cut out to be a spy; it's just not in my nature..." he insisted. The rough dragon man released a grunt and rubbed the back of his neck. "I'm no use to you as a spy now, and I'm not going to be able to take any jobs until this blows over… How the hell am I going to make any money?"
Examon frowned and walked over to Alphamon. "Alphamon, can I ask you a favour?" he beseeched the black-armoured Royal Knight.
Alphamon looked at Examon. "Sure. What is it?" he questioned, although he suspected he knew already.
"Can Dorbickmon stay here at the castle until this blows over?" Examon asked him. "He got into this situation because he was trying to help us out. I think it's only fair that we help him."
"You want him to stay at the castle?" Duftmon asked sceptically. "Where he can wander around and learn our secrets?"
"He wouldn't do that, Duftmon," Dukemon replied. "He doesn't have any reason to betray us."
The tactician frowned at Dukemon. "He may sell information about us to buy his way back into the good graces of the criminal underworld. You can't deny the possibility," he suggested.
Dorbickmon shot Duftmon an annoyed look. "One, I'm not that stupid. Two, I don't even want to stay here. I appreciate the thought, Examon, but I don't need your guys' protection. I can take care of myself."
Examon turned and calmly gazed at Dorbickmon. "You need a place to stay. It's safe here," he explained logically.
"Thanks, but no thanks. I'll be fine," Dorbickmon insisted with a dismissive shrug.
"He gets to stay here but I don't?!" PrinceMamemon complained.
"You're lucky you're getting as much as you are, with the stuff you put us through," Gankoomon explained to PrinceMamemon with a distasteful scowl.
"The same could be said for Dorbickmon," Craniamon dryly pointed out.
Dorbickmon rolled his eyes. "Thanks a lot. After I nearly got my horns pulled off helping you guys," he retorted to the violet knight.
"You got paid for it," Craniamon reminded him standoffishly.
Examon sighed with exasperation. "Dorbickmon, stop being stubborn," he said firmly, locking his green eyes with Dorbickmon. "Stay here for awhile. It's not charity or weakness – it's being smart. Where else are you going to stay?"
Dorbickmon opened his mouth to retort, but he realised that Examon had a point, prompting him to sneer and look away. "…Dunno," he muttered, his resolve starting to weaken. "The UDC?"
"You said that Dragon's Peak might not be safe," Examon argued.
"I don't mind risking it," Dorbickmon muttered, folding his arms and looking away from Examon. "I don't need your help."
Alphamon stood up from his seat and walked over to Dorbickmon. "Examon has a point. It would really be best if you stayed here for awhile. We don't mind at all; we take care of the Digimon who put themselves in danger to help us," he explained.
Dorbickmon grunted and shrugged. "…Okay, whatever!" he said with irritation. "Fine… Guess I don't have much choice anyways…" he conceded with an indignant mutter.
"Good," Examon said, grinning with relief and patting Dorbickmon's back.
Dorbickmon winced as Examon's hand struck a bruise. "Ow! Watch it, Examon!" he complained.
Examon chuckled softly. "Don't be a baby," he responded. He turned to Alphamon. "Thanks, Alphamon. Are we finished here? I want to get Dorbickmon to the medical bay."
Alphamon nodded. "More or less. Imperialdramon, can you update me on the Dark Area talks later?" he asked the white paladin.
Imperialdramon Paladin Mode nodded. "Yeah. I'll tell you what we're thinking about. They're still working out the kinks, but it's better than what we had before," he answered.
"Don't forget to tell us about it," Omegamon added, standing to his feet.
"I suppose I can just read the top secret record written by our transcriber," Duftmon replied.
PrinceMamemon looked down and pressed his fingers together. "Um, what about me…?" he asked meekly.
"Ah, yes," Alphamon spoke, turning over to the Captains. "Captain Knightmon, can you?"
"Yes, Sir," Knightmon agreed, walking over to PrinceMamemon. "Come along, your majesty. I will pick out some guards and then show you where you will be staying."
"I don't want any mean ones!" PrinceMamemon exclaimed, following Knightmon out into the great hall.
Once he was gone, UlforceVeedramon turned to Alphamon with a grin. "Be honest, Alphamon. The reason why Dorbick-kun's staying here while PrinceMamemon-sama isn't is because PrinceMamemon's too annoying to have around all the time."
Alphamon smiled a bit. "The reason is what I said it was. …But there are a lot of factors that went into that decision," he admitted slyly.
"Feel sorry for the guards that have to look after him," Dukemon said lightheartedly. "Talk about high-maintenance."
"Anyways," Alphamon spoke, turning to the table of Royal Knights. "Meeting adjourned."
The twelve Royal Knights rose to their feet and made to leave, as did Ouryumon, Grani, and Karatenmon.
Karatenmon walked over to Examon and Dorbickmon, nodding to them both. "Mind if I come along? I want to talk to Dorbickmon after he gets patched up," he explained.
"That's fine with me, Karatenmon," Examon replied, beginning to pull Dorbickmon's arm over his shoulders to help him walk.
Dorbickmon pulled his arm away slowly and gave Examon a stubborn, somewhat annoyed look. "I can walk just fine, Examon. Quit fussing over me," he responded.
As Grani floated by, he looked at the two Digimon. "Somebody has to fuss over stubborn, reckless, crimson, dragon men," he pointed out in a calm, playful voice. "Right, Examon?"
"I heard that, Grani!" Dukemon called over to the Zero ARMS. Grani smiled and flew over to Dukemon to walk out the door with him.
Examon grinned at Dorbickmon. "Okay then. You look like you got hit by a Trailmon, but go ahead and walk," he said to him.
Dorbickmon rolled his eyes and began walking, making sure to keep himself steady with every step. "See?" Dorbickmon pointed out dryly. "I've been in worse situations than that."
Examon sighed at his macho comrade, but smiled and followed him. The Royal Knights cleared out of the council room and dispersed in the great hall. The preparations for the journey to Saversburg would soon begin.
Omegamon stepped outside of the main building of the headquarters. He took in a breath of fresh air and straightened his body. He enjoyed the feeling of the mild, late afternoon air against him. The breeze was refreshing as it blew across the black fabric of his body and underneath this armour.
The sun was low in the sky as it began to set. Overhead, the clouds were a pinkish-violet colour that made for a beautiful sunset.
The white knight's blue eyes stared into the distance as he thought quietly. Just as Omegamon began to start walking again, a voice behind him called out.
"Hey, Omegamon!" the strong but warm voice hailed him.
Omegamon turned around and saw Imperialdramon Paladin Mode jog out of the castle and run up to him. The white knight smiled at his fellow white-armoured warrior. He was amused by Imperialdramon's constant energy; it was just like Imperialdramon to be unable to stay in one place for very long. He supposed he shouldn't have been surprised that Imperialdramon chose not to settle down with them when they founded the Order.
"Imperialdramon?" he asked his friend curiously. "Is something up?"
The sky blue dragon man grinned and stopped beside Omegamon. "No, I just wanted to talk. Are you busy?" Imperialdramon Paladin Mode asked him.
Omegamon shook his head. "I was just going for a walk around the castle," he explained in his soft, shared voice. "Do you want to join me?"
"Sure," the smiling warrior responded, walking alongside Omegamon.
They walked up the main street of the castle where all the shops and services were located. Digimon of the Order passed by and saluted the two Digimon. Omegamon nodded and saluted back at the passing soldiers.
As they made their way towards the castle courtyard, Omegamon looked at Imperialdramon. "Was there something particular you wanted to talk to me about?" he wondered.
"No. I just wanted to chat. Like old times," Imperialdramon Paladin Mode explained with the casual smile that he was known for. "So, how are you, Omegamon?"
"I'm good. Just busy with everything that's been going on," Omegamon explained, looking forwards. "And you?"
"Oh, you know. Thinking about the Dark Area and world security. Stuff like that," Imperialdramon nonchalantly replied.
Omegamon couldn't help but chuckle. "That's just like you…" he said with subtle warmth.
"What is?" the white armoured, blond-haired paladin asked.
"You being so relaxed, even when you're trying to take something seriously," Omegamon pointed out with a lighthearted look in his eyes.
Imperialdramon Paladin Mode smiled. "Hey, I can afford to be relaxed; you were always the sensible one between us."
"It feels like such a long time, doesn't it? Since the times that we adventured together," the alabaster Royal Knight mused.
"Ages ago," Imperialdramon stated, placing his hands behind his head as they walked towards the barracks and the training grounds. His crimson eyes glanced at Omegamon. "Hey, you've come a long way since then," he added in a teasing voice.
Omegamon looked at him. "Do you think?"
"Yeah. Remember, you had trouble saying two words to other Digimon in public without me around. Now you can command a whole army," Imperialdramon explained.
Omegamon flushed. "It isn't always easy," he pointed out. After a moment of thinking about it, he spoke up. "And you've changed too. You aren't nearly as reckless and headstrong."
"I'm not? Shame, I'll have to work on that," Imperialdramon Paladin Mode joked. He observed Omegamon with a light grin. "You also have a lot more friends now, other than just me. I'm glad about that."
Omegamon nodded. "So am I…" he mused. He looked at Imperialdramon. "Though, I'm glad you're still around."
The white paladin cast a warm smile towards him. "Of course I am. I know I've been flighty in the past, but, well…" He trailed off sheepishly. Imperialdramon rubbed the back of his head, idly running his blue fingers through his blond hair. It seemed as if he was regretting something.
"You're there when it matters," Omegamon responded, continuing to walk up the stone road.
It was Imperialdramon's turn to get embarrassed. "Not always… I mean, if I was…" he remembered back to what Omegamon Zwart had said to him about Imperialdramon leaving when the Order was founded.
Omegamon sighed. "Don't blame yourself for that, Imperialdramon… We both made mistakes. I could have been honest about my feelings, but I wasn't. That was one of my faults... That's always been one of my flaws. That was probably the main reason as to why I was susceptible to the dark data; I had those repressed, negative feelings I've been bottling up inside me" he explained to him.
"Even so, I should have been there. You're always there for your friends," Imperialdramon Paladin Mode said, glancing away sheepishly. "You've saved my blue butt more times than I can remember. …Hell, it's because of you that I have this form now." He gestured to his white armoured body. "You gave me your power back during the Armagemon crisis. I should have been there for you too."
"It's reciprocal," the Royal Knight assured him, looking at him meaningfully. "I gave you my power because I trust you with my life."
Imperialdramon felt his cheeks heat up. "It was nothing," he mumbled. He was never good at serious conversations. "…Anyways…" He looked at Omegamon. "How are you and Alphamon doing? Are things good?"
Omegamon smiled at his friend's typical behaviour. "They are… We put everything that happened behind us awhile ago. There's no lingering resentment on either side…" he said with gratefulness in his voice.
"Good… I know how close you two are," Imperialdramon said with his own smile. "…I didn't want to ask him, but are he and Ouryumon back together?"
"I don't think so, but they're still as close as ever," Omegamon explained.
Imperialdramon nodded, thinking to himself. "…What about Dukemon? How's he?"
"Dukemon?" Omegamon asked questioningly. "He's fine… Why?"
Imperialdramon: Paladin Mode chuckled and scratched his cheek with a finger. "No reason. Just curious how you two were getting along too. We've known him back since our adventuring days, after all."
"We've been fine…" the white Royal Knight answered. He gave his friend a bland look. "If you are looking for gossip, ask UlforceVeedramon or RhodoKnightmon…"
Imperialdramon laughed more. "Hey, I'm just interested!" he insisted, turning down the road and heading over towards the staging grounds on the east side of the castle. "I want to know what I missed while I was up in Saversburg trying to think of ways to save the world."
Omegamon smiled and rolled his eyes. "You know, in your role as the founder of our Order, you have a certain mystique and gravitas around you. Are a lot of Digimon disappointed when they meet you in person?" he playfully said to his friend.
"You only say that because you know me so well. I can pull off that heroic charisma, you know. Unlike your good self," Imperialdramon replied, nudging him with his elbow. "All I need to do is strike a pose, spread my majestic wings, let the wind blow through my hair, and speak in my deep, commanding voice. It doesn't take much to make Digimon swoon."
A soft laugh escaped Omegamon's mouth. "You're hopeless," he said, walking beside the dragon man and continuing their trek around the castle.
Back in the castle, Dukemon walked down one of the stone corridors of the headquarters. There was one particular Royal Knight that he wanted to speak with.
Dukemon strode down the wide hallway. The soft, rippling sound that his cape made as he walked harmonized with the hum of the glowing torches on the walls. He made his way towards the stairs leading to the basement. The metallic clanking of his boots against the rug-covered floor announced his presence.
"I think I saw him go this way…" Dukemon mused to himself as he headed towards the stairs.
"Dukemon? Where are you going?" a voice asked from behind him
Dukemon glanced over his shoulder and saw Grani floating around a corner. He noticed the Zero ARMS looked at him with inquiring, sapphire eyes. Dukemon grinned. "You're not following me, are you? I'm not going to run off and get myself captured again, if that's what you're worried about."
Grani shot him a flat gaze. "Really. Because it wouldn't surprise me in the least," he sarcastically replied. "I'm merely asking."
"I'm looking for Duftmon. I want to speak to him about something," Dukemon responded.
"Oh? That sounds serious," Grani mused.
"Not really. …Or, at least, I don't think it is… I guess I'll find out," the white and red knight answered, scratching his cheek with a finger. "Have you see him?"
"I think you are headed in the right direction," the avian dragon informed him. "It shouldn't be too hard to find him. Outside of battle, his movements are predictable. Good luck with whatever it is."
Dukemon nodded. "I'll let you know a little later, Grani," he replied. As Grani flew off, Dukemon made his way to the stairs to the basement.
Just as Dukemon was about to head down the stone staircase, he noticed a familiar figure out of the corner of his eyes. Down a side hallway that led to the corner where the stairs were located, Dukemon noticed the familiar, slender, brown body of Duftmon walking over.
Dukemon turned to face him and gave him a disarming smile behind his helmet. "Duftmon. Just the Digimon I was looking for," he greeted.
Duftmon stopped and cocked an eyebrow curiously. "Hmm?"
"Where are you headed?" Dukemon asked him.
"I was headed to the library to read the transcriptions of the Saversburg meetings," Duftmon responded, raising a folder of papers that he was holding. "Why do you ask?"
"Great! I'll come with you and we can talk there," Dukemon exclaimed.
Duftmon levelled an incredulous look at Dukemon, as if he just said that he wanted to marry an Armagemon. "…We can't talk in the library, Dukemon. That is the first and foremost rule of library etiquette. Did you not read the list of rules that I posted on the door?"
"How about the chapel, then?" Dukemon suggested.
"That would be disrespectful to Yggdrasil and any Digimon who may be in there," Duftmon countered. "…What is wrong with speaking right here?"
"I want to talk to you in private. …How about a broom closet?" Dukemon playfully offered.
Duftmon stared at him flatly, his green eyes seriously unamused. After a few moments, he released a sigh. "Very well. We can speak in my bedroom. Is that private enough?"
"Works for me," Dukemon said, putting his hands on his hips.
Duftmon nodded and turned around to head to the stairs leading up to the second floor. Dukemon followed the leopard tactician as he strode up to the second floor. The pair of Royal Knights walked down the hallway of the Royal Knights' sleeping quarters, towards Duftmon's room.
Duftmon opened the door and walked inside, allowing Dukemon to follow him. He stopped a few meters inside his room and turned around to face Dukemon. "Please do not move anything or make a mess," he told him.
"I won't touch a thing," Dukemon promised him, putting his hands up innocently.
"Why do I doubt that?" Duftmon mumbled. He looked at Dukemon directly. "What is it that you wish to speak about?"
Dukemon closed the door behind him and rubbed the back of his head sheepishly. "Uh… you, to be honest."
Duftmon frowned with both curiosity and scepticism. "…Me?" he tentatively questioned. "In what way?"
"Well…" Dukemon walked over and sat down on Duftmon's bed, inadvertently creasing the blankets with his weight as he sat. You've seemed different ever since Dynasmon and me got back."
Duftmon bristled at the newly made creases in the blankets, but remained quiet. Instead of reprimanding him, he turned to face Dukemon, arms folded. "'Dynasmon and I'," Duftmon corrected his grammatical error. "…Have I? I certainly haven't noticed. Perhaps you are imagining it."
Dukemon smiled a bit. "No… I'm definitely not. You've been… more understanding."
Duftmon grunted and felt a bit insulted. "More understanding… Was I not understanding before?" he questioned pointedly, closing his eyes and tilting his head up back indignantly.
Dukemon chuckled. "Let's be honest, Duftmon. You're not exactly a sensitive Digimon…" he pointed out light-heartedly.
"You can be quite the reckless boor yourself," Duftmon defensively countered. However, after a moment, he released a sigh and folded his arms. "But, yes, I am aware of that…"
Dukemon couldn't help but blink at Duftmon's personal insight. "You are…?"
"Are you saying that I am not self-aware?" Duftmon pressed the crimson Royal Knight.
The dragon man rubbed the back of his head. "Well… Yeah…" Dukemon admitted sheepishly.
"Hmph…" Duftmon scoffed, turning his head away. "As if you are."
Dukemon smiled and shrugged. "Neither of us is perfect. I'd be the first to admit that I'm not," Dukemon stated. He looked at Duftmon with an amused expression. "But being self-aware isn't exactly your forte."
"…I suppose you are right…" Duftmon admitted, somewhat reluctantly. "I am not adroit at social situations… I am honest with my opinions; as a tactician, I have to be… However, I say things in a manner that upsets Digimon. I may not know the right things to say, but I am aware of other Digimons' reactions towards me. I suppose I cannot help it. I have to be honest."
Dukemon smiled and patted the spot beside him on Duftmon's bed. "Sit down," he offered.
Duftmon stared at the spot with hesitation. He didn't particularly want to sit next to Dukemon - especially not that close in proximity. "I would rather not…" Duftmon spoke.
"Oh, come on. It's rude to stand over somebody while talking to them," Dukemon teased.
"I didn't ask you to sit," Duftmon muttered, although reluctantly walking over and sitting on his bed. He sat down with poise, making sure that there was some distance between himself and the knight who he knew had a poor sense of personal space. "There. Are you satisfied?"
Dukemon grinned and rolled his eyes. "You and I are very different…" he pointed out.
The leopard knight stared at Dukemon with sarcastic eyes. "You don't say…"
A chuckle escaped Dukemon's mouth. "Well, it's true. I'm reckless and impulsive, while you're calculating and measured. I make decisions based on emotion; you make them based on logic. I'm good with Digimon; you're good with strategy and intellectual stuff. I'm sociable and you're not. I have a hot temper, while you have an icy one," he stated, looking at Duftmon.
"I do hope that you aren't just figuring this out now…" Duftmon muttered, his voice still dripping with sarcasm. "Yes, Dukemon, you and I are extremely different."
Dukemon grinned at the shorter, skinnier Royal Knight. "Now that's one thing we have in common; we're both honest to a fault. That's probably why you and I argue so much," he observed. "Even if we aren't always honest with ourselves."
Duftmon winced and looked away from Dukemon. "…It was that self-obliviousness that lost us the battle and got you and Dynasmon taken prisoner…" he murmured.
The crimson knight turned his head and looked at Duftmon. "What was that?"
"Nothing at all," Duftmon insisted, closing his eyes and straightening himself up.
Dukemon eyed Duftmon quietly for a few moments. He then sighed and bent forwards, placing his forearms on his knees. "I know it was a stupid thing that I did. I got myself and Dynasmon captured. It was a reckless plan. I know how worried I made everybody," he stated, looking down guiltily. "In fact, I'm surprised that you took this long to say anything. I expected you to be down my throat as soon as I got back."
"Fool," Duftmon muttered, shooting a sideways glare at Dukemon. "That… wasn't what I meant…" He looked away again, growing embarrassed.
Dukemon blinked. "Huh?"
"I was the one who wasn't self-aware. I was overconfident and dismissive of other Digimon's opinions. I couldn't see past my own ego. That caused me to make a fatal mistake…" Duftmon spoke, his fists tightening on his lap. "I should have listened to the scouting report. What happened in that battle was my responsibility and mine alone. It is because of that that you and Dynasmon were forced to take drastic action… I…" Duftmon looked to the side opposite from Dukemon. His words were in a barely audible mumble. "…I apologise…"
Dukemon was stunned into silence. He gazed incredulously at Duftmon, unable to believe what he just heard. For several moments, he just stared at the blond hair of the back of Duftmon's head, since the tactician had looked away in order to hide his blushing face. After a few seconds, Dukemon scooted closer to Duftmon. He raised his hand and placed it on the tactician's shoulder, squeezing it.
Duftmon tensed up when he sensed the knight's proximity and felt Dukemon's large hand on his winged shoulder. He wasn't particularly good with emotional physical contact. He didn't know how to react to it. Nevertheless, he reluctantly allowed it, as he expected such a thing from Dukemon.
"Don't worry about it, Duftmon. We all make mistakes. We just have to make sure that we learn from them," Dukemon spoke, his voice warm and understanding.
Duftmon glanced over his shoulder, his cheeks still heated with embarrassment at his admission of fault. "Yes… That is what I am trying to do…" he responded. "It isn't easy, you know…"
"It's never easy, trying to change something about yourself…" Dukemon said. His words were soft with understanding. "What exactly do you think you need to change?"
"I believe that I need to be more considerate of other Digimon. In many ways…" Duftmon admitted. "I have heard several times that I need to understand the Digimon that are beneath me."
Dukemon smirked. "Let me stop you right there. You aren't going to make any progress as long as you consider other Digimon to be beneath you," the crimson Royal Knight pointed out in a playful tone. "You may be a genius, Duftmon, but that doesn't mean you're better than us simple Digimon because of it."
"Ah… So, you believe that Digimon should be judged on other qualities apart from intelligence," Duftmon spoke, thinking to himself. "How do you judge Digimon, then?"
"I don't," Dukemon answered, frowning slightly. "Or, I try not to… I don't like to be judged, so why should I judge other Digimon?" Dukemon rubbed the back of his neck as he thought about his words. "I guess that's my point. You shouldn't judge Digimon based on shallow things. You have to understand them. Every Digimon has good qualities and bad qualities, as well as personalities, quirks, and past experiences that make them who they are."
"This is complicated…" Duftmon said with an annoyed sigh.
Dukemon laughed a bit and rubbed the leopard knight's shoulder before letting his hand slide off. "Okay, let's try this…" he suggested. He looked at Duftmon directly. "Tell me about yourself."
Duftmon blinked and looked at Dukemon with confusion. "Why in the Digital World would I do that? You already know enough about me," he responded with distaste.
"Not really… You never talk about your past. I didn't even know that you had a friend at the Xuanwumon University," Dukemon stated. "I feel like I don't know you as well as I should, and you haven't really made an effort to find out much about the rest of us. Why don't we start there?"
Duftmon sighed and looked as if he just ate something bitter. "…Very well… If we must…" he replied with emphatic reluctance. "What would you like to know?"
"Hmm…" Dukemon hummed, thinking about it for a moment. "Okay. What was it like growing up? What were your parents like?"
"Mm…" Duftmon frowned a bit as he thought about the question. "I come from a wealthy, prominent family of noble lineage. I descend from the founder of Saversburg, who was also a great military general. My mother was the mayor of Saversburg for several years when I was young. My father was the general of the Saversburg military at around the same time. He was… strict," Duftmon remembered.
Dukemon gazed at Duftmon with immense curiosity. It wasn't every day that Duftmon was so willing to talk about himself. "Strict?" he asked.
"Yes. As their only son, I was expected to carry on the good name of the family. I received private tutors and went to an elite school. I was expected to be well-versed in myriad subjects and disciplines," Duftmon responded in a neutral, explanatory way. "Politics, martial studies, grammar, history, etiquette, science…"
"That must have been hard…" Dukemon said empathetically. "Didn't you ever want to do other things?"
"Not especially…" Duftmon admitted. "My father was very strict, yes, but I was always interested in learning new things. It was only slightly burdensome."
"Didn't you have time for friends or just relaxing?" the larger Royal Knight asked him.
"I didn't have any friends," Duftmon answered without any regret or bitterness in his voice. "I wasn't very good at making any, and I wasn't particularly interested in doing so anyways. I much preferred studying. It was only when I started attending Xuanwumon University did I begin to socialize more. I debated with Tactimon and other students on various issues. I enjoyed finally being among Digimon who could challenge my intellect."
"Tactimon. One of the generals of Saversburg's army, right?" Dukemon mused. "So, he was your first friend?"
"Colleague. He, Blastmon, and I led the Saversburg Army against the Death-X invasion," the tactician corrected.
Dukemon sighed and smiled with resignation. "Colleague. Right…" he conceded. "And I know the rest. We noticed your efforts as a general and tactician, so we invited you to join the Order."
"Correct," Duftmon answered. "…Although, my parents are still a constant irritation. Even as a Royal Knight, they insist that I marry and produce offspring. That will not be happening. I have absolutely no interest in the romantic or sexual associations with the opposite binary gender. I don't see the sense in creating more Digimon when there are more than enough already. Is that so hard to grasp?"
At this, Dukemon smirked but held back his laughter. "No, I didn't think you would be…" he responded. "…Okay. I feel like I understand you better now," the caped Royal Knight said with a smile. "Let's try me now. You ask the questions."
"What should I ask?" Duftmon questioned.
Dukemon shrugged. "Whatever you want to know about me that you don't already know," he answered. "It's practice."
"Very well…" the brown armoured Royal Knight agreed. He thought for a few seconds about what he wanted to ask. He then looked up at Dukemon. "When did you first get the Digital Hazard? Were you born with it? Or did you receive it at some point? Has it activated before?"
At this, Dukemon went silent. He squirmed uncomfortably in place on the bed and looked away from Duftmon with annoyance and uncertainty. Unbeknownst to Duftmon, he had just put his defensive walls up.
Dukemon shot Duftmon a look, although he attempted to play off his reaction with a grin. "Okay, lesson two. You can't ask Digimon personal things like that. You have to gauge what's acceptable to ask someone," Dukemon explained, having no intention on answering the questions.
"Hmph. You just told me to ask whatever I wanted to know about you. I was curious about the Digital Hazard so I took that into my decision making," Duftmon huffily answered, folding his arms. He levelled an annoyed stare at Dukemon. "Besides, you just asked me about my past. Can I not ask about yours?"
Dukemon sighed and rubbed his head with mild irritation. He didn't want to be a hypocrite, but he also didn't really want to talk about that aspect of himself. He hated being associated with the Digital Hazard. He felt there was more to him than just that, but he felt like it dominated others' perceptions of him.
"Okay, look…" Dukemon conceded. "I'll tell you a bit about my past. …The truth is, I was born as a roaming Digi-egg in a small village that no longer exists. I was raised in an orphanage until I was adopted. I didn't have the mark of the Digital Hazard until I became a Guilmon, but it's possible that it existed latently before then. A seer from the city of Brighthelm was visiting. He identified the mark as the Digital Hazard, which meant I had the potential to cause immense damage to the Digital World's security and create a worldwide calamity. That's how I first found out about it," he explained, obviously uneasy about it.
Duftmon nodded. He gazed at Dukemon with inquisitive eyes, as if he was reading an interesting book.
Dukemon glanced at Duftmon. "Anyway… Things were normal for awhile. But when I was a MegaloGrowmon, raiders attacked the town and killed everybody. Afterwards, I travelled the Digital World with Grani. Over those years of helping people and honing my skills, I met Alphamon, Ouryumon, Omegamon, Imperialdramon, Magnamon, Dynasmon, and DarkKnightmon. That's pretty much it," Dukemon explained, purposefully skimming over the details between the attack and when he started going adventuring.
"I see…" Duftmon responded. "So, you met the founding members of the Order over that period…"
"Yeah… My good friends…" Dukemon said, smiling fondly. He looked over at Duftmon. "You know… despite how often you and I are at each other's throats, I count you among them… My friends, I mean."
Duftmon frowned at this and felt uneasy. He wasn't entirely sure how to react to it. "I see… Err… Thank you, I suppose…" he half-heartedly replied.
At this, Dukemon couldn't help but laugh. "It is so worth it to get soppy just to see the look on your face," Dukemon teased.
Duftmon shot Dukemon an annoyed glare. He stood up and folded his arms. "If you are just planning to tease me, then I think we are finished here."
Dukemon chuckled. "Oh, I'm kidding," he said, standing to his feet as well. He placed his hands on his hips and looked at the tactician. "Besides, I did mean it."
The slender Royal Knight glanced away. "Very well," he uncomfortably acknowledged. He felt obliged to say something in return. "And you… are a good Royal Knight."
Dukemon laughed again. "I'll take it."
Duftmon released a huff and began to straighten out the sheets of his bed. As he did so, he glanced out of the corners of his green eyes at Dukemon. "'Friends'…" he began, his tone thoughtful. "They really mean a lot to you, don't they, Dukemon…?"
At this, Dukemon grew serious but still retained a small smile. "Yeah, they do… I don't have a family and my hometown is long gone. My friends are the most important things to me," he explained.
"Mm…" Duftmon murmured in thought. "A lot of the other Royal Knights feel the same way, I have noticed. You all talk about friendship as if it is this great, empowering thing…"
"Well, it is, Duftmon…" Dukemon responded. "My friends give me strength. Because of them, I'm a better a fighter - a better Digimon… They mean everything to me."
"I see…" Duftmon spoke. "I have never seen the benefits to it. Meaningful social interactions have never done anything for me.
"You're missing out, Duftmon," Dukemon said to him. "Most of us consider you our friend. You should open yourself up more. It's nice to be able to have Digimon you can trust, who you can laugh with, cry with, share your experiences with… I'd be half the Digimon that I am today if it weren't for all of you."
At Dukemon's impassioned words, Duftmon stood up straight and folded his arms. After a few moments of thought, he nodded to himself. "Very well… Perhaps I should try this 'friendship' and see if there are any merits to your words. As a Royal Knight, it is my duty to be the best that I can be. I also must prove whether there is actually any benefit to the concept using empirical methods. I shall have to take notes and do some research…"
Dukemon burst into laughter at this.
Duftmon glared with irritation at Dukemon's chortling. "…What? What is so amusing?" he asked him, clearly annoyed. "I am being serious."
Dukemon tried to reign in his laughter. "So-Sorry. I'm n-not laughing at you," Dukemon responded between chuckles, rubbing an eye with a finger. "It's just so like you…" He took a deep breath and smiled broadly at Duftmon. "Hoo… Friendship has to be a natural thing, Duftmon. You can't overanalyse it…"
"Everything can be analysed," Duftmon insisted. "I have my own way of doing things, Dukemon. Now, if you would kindly excuse me, I need to go to the library to read the transcription of the Dark Area meetings."
Dukemon grinned and slung his arm over Duftmon's shoulders, walking out of the room with him. "Okay. Thanks for taking the time to talk to me. I know you hate things like that," he gratefully mentioned.
Duftmon tensed up and slid out from under Dukemon's arms. "Very well. It is fine," he insisted. "It was an enlightening experience."
"Oh! Then we should do it again sometime!" Dukemon exclaimed with a playful grin.
Duftmon shot him a leer. "That won't be necessary, Dukemon. Don't get carried away," he responded firmly. "You should go back to your duties."
Dukemon smiled and watched as Duftmon walked away. "Is it possible? Did I actually make progress with him? He really has changed…" he thought to himself pensively. He looked down introspectively. "Well, if Duftmon of all Digimon is trying to change, then…" He sighed and fingered at the Digital Hazard symbol on his chest armour, his doubts beginning to emerge again. "I'll see…"
Fujinmon watched as a brigade of D-Brigade soldiers marched down the largest road of Haganemame City, a thoroughfare that led from one end of the city to the other. Cyborg and machine Digimon made their way through the newly captured city in an orderly, efficient fashion.
The sound of marching footsteps sounded out in precise unison. The mechanical drone of engines rumbled as mechanised Digimon drove behind the columns of soldiers.
The thousands of D-Brigade soldiers made camp outside of the city, where a small D-Brigade base was being constructed. Their mere presence was enough to keep the Mamemon Kingdom in line. The D-Brigade Digimon who weren't policing the city were gathering in the south east of the city to await further orders.
Fujinmon pensively viewed the passing D-Brigade soldiers, making sure that everything was in order.
"Fujinmon!" a voice called out from nearby.
The Hurricane Commander turned and saw Raijinmon and Suijinmon making the way over to him. Raijinmon strolled down the side of the road, keeping pace with the slower Suijinmon. Suijinmon was larger than some of the small buildings in Haganemame City.
"Oh, Raijinmon, Suijinmon," Fujinmon greeted, nodding his V-shaped head in acknowledgment.
"How is the organization of our forces going?" Suijinmon questioned, plodding up to him with heavy footsteps that caused the smooth sidewalk to rumble.
"Fine. They are gathering at the staging area as planned," Fujinmon explained.
"Good," Suijinmon spoke, stopping in front of him.
"Why?" Fujinmon wondered.
Raijinmon stood beside his fellow Storm Commanders. "We have news," he explained, folding his arms behind his back. "Chaosdramon will be arriving here any minute."
Fujinmon blinked with surprised. "What? The emperor?" he asked. "Why is he coming here? Is he displeased that we didn't destroy their army?"
"He said that he didn't mind as long as our force was demonstrated," Suijinmon assured the green cyborg. "He just wants to see the newly conquered city for himself. He may want to talk to Mercuremon as well."
"He will probably want to congratulate us on our successful operation as well," Raijinmon noted.
Fujinmon frowned. "So, is that it? What happens next, now that our objective has been completed?" he asked them.
Raijinmon shrugged. "I suppose it's up to the emperor," the gold cyborg explained. "He decides on the overall strategic objectives of war. We do the rest."
Suijinmon looked at his two comrades. "There is still the Royal Knights to consider."
"It depends on how they react, I suppose," Raijinmon stated with a frown.
Their conversation was interrupted by a trembling in the ground. There was a soft thundering in the distance, which struck a slow rhythm as it echoed through the city. They were the sound of heavy footsteps.
The three D-Brigade Commanders turned to see Chaosdramon walking into the city. He made his way down the wide, main road of the city, as it was one of the few in Haganemame City that could actually fit him. The giant dragon cyborg towered over all of the surrounding, dome-like buildings, and his footsteps were strong enough to cause the structures around him to tremble. If the Mamemon civilians weren't hiding before, they were now.
"There he is," Raijinmon stated, looking down the road at the massive, crimson Digimon trudging up the street towards them.
"It isn't every day that the Emperor leaves the borders of the Metal Empire," Fujinmon noted.
Suijinmon hummed with agreement. "He is often too busy micromanaging our empire. His majesty is very diligent. It must be important if he has come out here to Haganemame City," he mused.
It took a few minutes for Chaosdramon to finally reach the trio of Commanders. Once he did, Raijinmon, Fujinmon, and Suijinmon all bowed.
"Good day, Your Majesty," Raijinmon spoke, raising himself from the bow.
"How do you like the new addition to our empire?" Fujinmon questioned, gesturing around to the city.
Chaosdramon released a soft grunt. "It is small and inconsequential," his voice echoed as he looked around at the buildings, most of which he could step on with ease. "Apart from a few trivial technologies, there is nothing for us to gain here. However, it is the principle that matters."
"Indeed. Our power has been demonstrated quite nicely, Your Majesty," Suijinmon explained. "Have you come to admire our new possessions?"
"In part," Chaosdramon rumbled.
"Will you see Mercuremon?" Raijinmon asked. "He has sworn loyalty to us, and he wishes to present you with the blueprints that were stolen from us."
"Later," Chaosdramon said dismissively. He looked around Haganemame City. "Is there anywhere in this puny town that we can talk in private? I wish to discuss sensitive information with you three."
Raijinmon looked at Chaosdramon curiously. "Er, yes. I believe there is a factory warehouse at the eastern edge of town that isn't currently in use. We were planning to repurpose it as a hangar for our mechanized Digimon. It should be able to fit you," he explained.
"That will do," Chaosdramon stated. He raised his claw arm and hailed his two Darkdramon bodyguards who were flying behind him. He gestured to them to continue following him. "This way."
Suijinmon walked alongside Chaosdramon obediently. Fujinmon gave Raijinmon a questioning look. The gold Thunderclap Commander frowned curiously in response, also wondering what Chaosdramon wanted. Both he and Fujinmon followed down the street as well.
"So, the operation went smoothly?" Chaosdramon questioned.
Suijinmon looked up at Chaosdramon as his vermillion body meandered beside the giant emperor. "Not a single Digimon lost in the main assault," Suijinmon stated proudly. "The only problem was that battle against the Royal Knights, but we overcame them in the end. Although at a dearly bitter cost to my soldiers."
"There was also the debacle where Dukemon and Dynasmon escaped," Chaosdramon noted.
Fujinmon narrowed his eyes and looked to the side quietly.
"That wasn't Fujinmon's fault," Suijinmon put forward, not wanting Fujinmon to be blamed. "It was an oversight on my part. I should have allowed for more soldiers to go as the prison escort."
"Suijinmon," Fujinmon told him calmly, beginning to feel guilty. "That isn't neces—"
"Never mind that now," Chaosdramon spoke authoritatively, interrupting the Hurricane Commander. "There are more important things to deal with."
"Such as the incorporation of the Mamemon Kingdom into our society?" Suijinmon suggested, continuing to walk along.
"That is simply one such goal," the red digizoid plated colossus responded in his hollow, mechanical voice.
Raijinmon frowned at his mysterious words. "Is there something we're missing, Emperor Chaosdramon?" he asked him.
"I have been doing a lot of thinking, Commander Raijinmon," Chaosdramon responded to the cream-coloured cyborg. "You will see soon enough."
After awhile of walking, the group made their way to the outskirts of Haganemame City, where there was a large warehouse positioned next to a sizeable factory. The factory was currently closed due to the invasion, and the area was under D-Brigade control. The warehouse was over thirty feet tall, and it had a pair of metal doors that were nearly as tall as the warehouse itself. They were currently wide open so that Metal Empire workers could transport the contents out of the warehouse, but the doors could be closed and locked securely. The interior was mostly cleared out of its contents, so it was beginning to look more like a hangar.
"Clear the area," Chaosdramon commanded the three Storm Commanders. "Consider this situation as Class 1 confidentiality."
"Yes, Your Highness," Suijinmon spoke, meandering towards the warehouse. He walked inside and asked the Metal Empire workers there to clear out.
Fujinmon flew forwards and did the same with the Digimon outside of the warehouse. After a few minutes, the Digimon left and made themselves scarce as ordered.
Chaosdramon turned towards his two Darkdramon bodyguards. "Make sure that nobody comes near," he ordered them, before craning his large, dinosaur head towards the warehouse. "Let's go, Raijinmon."
"Yes, Emperor," Raijinmon complied, walking forwards and going inside the spacious building.
Suijinmon was already inside, waiting for them. Fujinmon landed beside Raijinmon and began to enter with him. The interior of the warehouse was almost completely empty. All that was left were several large crates that were against the steel walls of the building. There were also plenty of giant, sturdy chains either lying around the floor or hanging from the ceiling as part of a complicated pulley system designed to lift and move heavy things in and out of the warehouse.
"Will this do, Your Majesty?" Suijinmon's voice echoed in the spacious warehouse as he turned towards their emperor.
"Yes, this is fine," Chaosdramon spoke in response.
Raijinmon closed the giant doors of the warehouse behind him and then walked up to Suijinmon and Fujinmon, who stood in front of Chaosdramon. "What is it, Emperor Chaosdramon?" he wondered.
"As I said, I have been thinking long and hard about this campaign," Chaosdramon explained, turning his crimson eyes down to look at the three smaller Commanders. "You three have done an excellent job so far."
Fujinmon frowned at his choice of words. "So far?" he asked.
"Yes," Chaosdramon tersely breathed. "We aren't stopping here."
Raijinmon blinked with surprise. "We aren't…? But our objective has been achieved, hasn't it?" he inquired on confusion.
"Our initial objective…" Chaosdramon said. "But… the Metal Empire is the finest kingdom in the Digital World. Our technical prowess, our strength, our discipline… We machine Digimon are the pinnacle of Digimon evolution: between our sturdy bodies, our exceptional power, and our sharp minds… nothing should stand in our way. Why shouldn't we expand our influence to reflect that?"
Raijinmon raised an eyebrow sceptically and quickly glanced at his two comrades for their reactions. "Are you sure, Your Majesty…?" he asked him.
"That is rather aggressive," Fujinmon agreed, feeling comfort in Raijinmon's scepticism.
Meanwhile, Suijinmon was silent as he processed the information and considered Chaosdramon's words.
"Do you disagree?" Chaosdramon asked them, levelling a cold, displeased leer at the three.
"No, Your Majesty," Suijinmon assured him. He looked at Raijinmon and Fujinmon with a wordless but emphatic gaze.
"Of course not, Emperor," Raijinmon replied. "I'm just surprised… We have been isolationist for decades. It's a dramatic shift to do what you suggest."
"Indeed. We aren't saying it's a bad idea; it's just surprising," Fujinmon agreed.
"Keeping to ourselves was a policy started under JumboGamemon," Chaosdramon pointedly replied. "I am not JumboGamemon. …Besides, the idea of borders is becoming outdated. The Royal Knights have no regards for them. Why should we? Digimon roam and intermingle freely just like in the olden times where borders were nonexistent. If we have the power to expand our control, why shouldn't we?"
"It could cause further war," Raijinmon pointed out.
"We are already at war with the Royal Knights," the crimson, steel titan explained. "If anything, this total victory over the Mamemon Kingdom and the Royal Knights has shown how much we are capable of. We passed through the Dual Chess Monarchy – they could make a useful addition to our empire."
Fujinmon smiled a bit at his ambitious words. "You may have a point, Your Majesty," he concurred.
Raijinmon looked at Fujinmon with surprise, not expecting for the Hurricane Commander to agree so readily. "I suppose invading the Dual Chess Monarchy is an option."
"It wouldn't take much invading," Chaosdramon rumbled confidently. He turned and looked at Suijinmon. "What do you think, Suijinmon? You have been quiet…"
"If you wish it, Your Majesty, I will obey," Suijinmon assured him. "I am positive that we can do it."
"Then we will conquer the Dual Chess Monarchy," Raijinmon complied.
Chaosdramon shook his head. "I have a bigger plan than simply conquering the Chessmon… We can do far better than that," he explained.
"What do you suggest, Your Majesty?" Suijinmon asked.
The towering cyborg released a breathy grunt. "The army of Saversburg attacked us previously, did they not…? Saversburg are staunch allies of the Royal Knights… I think it's time we taught them that the Metal Empire is not to be trifled with," he explained with a glint in his blood red eyes. "They have one of the largest cities in the Digital World, and they have a thriving economy. It will be more difficult than either the Mamemons or the Chessmons, but the reward is worth the risk."
The three Storm Commanders exchanged glances but all bowed with compliance. "So, Emperor, you mean…" Raijinmon began.
Chaosdramon nodded. "Yes… We will invade Saversburg," he declared. "Nothing will stand in our way… not even those pathetic Royal Knights."