(Author's Note: Sorry for the wait. I've been a bit busy lately. A few notes:
For this chapter, I'm going to have to split it into two. This wasn't the original intention behind this chapter, but I found that this chapter was too long (20 000 words) to post all at once. It's a big read, so I've decided to divide this up into two bite-sized chunks. I'll be posting Part 1 right now, and I'll post Part 2 next weekend to give people a chance to read the first part. I wanted to post this as a single chapter, but as I was editing it I found that it was too long for a single serving and I didn't want to put all of you through that. xD Keep in mind Part 1 isn't meant to be standalone. With that said, enjoy the chapter! I think it's a fun one. Enjoy and let me know what you think!)
Chapter 35: Phantom Sun (Part I)
The clouds broke and the sun emerged in the sky. The morning sun rose behind Castle Albion, its mild, spring rays piercing through the spreading clouds with the promise of a sunny day. The gentle wisps of cloud data drifted in from the Net Ocean, juxtaposing against the backdrop of the pure, azure firmament. It caused Castle Albion to strike quite the scenic pose in the warm, spring morning.
Four Digimon had the perfect vantage point to see the picturesque castle as they approached the fortress.
GrandisKuwagamon zipped through the sky, his glowing, amber wings beating swiftly as he soared. The sun rose directly in front of him, causing its bright rays to shine into his ruby-like eye. The morning sun beat down on his body, warming his obsidian exoskeleton with its heat. He felt the temperate air rush past his body as he flew, and the soft gusts of wind blew through his tangerine hair.
Flying beside him was the form of a massive, blue dragon, clad in heavy, black armour that was accented with gold trimmings. Paildramon had evolved to her Ultimate form, Imperialdramon Dragon Mode, so that she could carry the ground-bound Dorbickmon on her back. This was done so that they could return to the headquarters faster than if they were walking. Due to her large body in that form, the mercenary was able to fit inside of the glowing, dome-shaped barrier that surrounded her back. It completely covered the dorsal of her back, minus her broad wings which flapped majestically as she flew at a slow speed in order to keep pace with the others.
On GrandisKuwagamon's other side was VictoryGreymon, who soared through the air with the aid of the two, detachable wings on the back of his armour. VictoryGreymon smiled over at GrandisKuwagamon amicably. His emerald eyes shimmered with a warm and friendly demeanour; they stood out as the sun shone against them, highlighting the brilliant green of his irises. His neck-length, fiery red hair swayed in the breeze like gentle embers as he flew alongside his teammates.
Ignoring VictoryGreymon's perpetually friendly smile, GrandisKuwagamon stared ahead; his eye was fixed on Castle Albion, which only about a kilometer away from them.
It was a fortress, a stronghold, a projection of the Royal Knights' power. To GrandisKuwagamon, it had always been the symbol of an enemy – of Digimon who wanted to arrest him, who looked down on him, who even wanted to kill him. The first time he was there, he had snuck into the castle and killed Order soldiers – a job that was for the money, but also a defiant stab against the hierarchy. The next time he was there, he was being led into the castle in chains, stared at by the cold, judgmental eyes of the passing guards. Both of those times, they were the enemy, and he was their enemy. It was hard for enemies to trust each other. It wasn't easy to drop those pre-conceived notions and labels that form in one's mind when meeting adversity.
Yet, here he was, working alongside the Royal Knights. He had helped Paildramon, Dorbickmon, and VictoryGreymon find out what they needed to know about the client who hired Black Pincer Company. He had put his trust in Alphamon, who had guaranteed him that if he helped them, they would diminish his sentence. He trusted Alphamon to be a man of honour and live up to his word. The Royal Knights weren't the sort of Digimon to renege on their promises, unlike the Digimon that GrandisKuwagamon was used to dealing with. That was one reason why he had trouble lowering his guard.
As they approached Castle Albion, instead of adversity, GrandisKuwagamon tentatively saw a glimmer of hope. However, he stifled those feelings with a thick layer of realism. He had to find out whether the castle he was returning to was one of freedom, or one of imprisonment. Every Digimon was capable of lying after all. That was something he had learned time and again.
Imperialdramon flapped her broad wings and flew ahead of GrandisKuwagamon and VictoryGreymon. She turned her head and looked at them, her neck-length, white hair blowing in her face slightly as she flew. "We'll land in the training grounds and proceed to the main square, where we'll meet with our superiors," she informed them, her voice deeper than usual in that form.
"Okay, over sergeant," VictoryGreymon affirmed with a nod.
"Fine with me," Dorbickmon said, lying with his hands behind his head. He glanced out at the vista of the castle as he relaxed on Imperialdramon's back. The protective barrier shielded him from the wind and g-forces as she flew forwards.
GrandisKuwagamon watched as Imperialdramon led the approach towards the castle. As she neared the ramparts of the gatehouse, she slowed, beating her broad wings ahead of her body to cease her momentum and come to a halt. GrandisKuwagamon and VictoryGreymon slowed down behind her. She hailed to a rabbit Digimon, one of the Castle Guards, who was standing watch on the ramparts near the castle gate.
"Over sergeant Paildramon of the Strike Forces, returning from a mission with my team," she informed the guard on duty.
"Okay, you're free to enter," the Galgomon responded from his place on the ramparts. He gestured over to the expanse of the grassy training grounds within the walls of the castle. "Touch down over there."
"Affirmative," Imperialdramon responded, nodding to the other members of her team. Beating her crimson wings, she glided over the wall and took a left. She soared above the main road, the castle courtyards, and finally the barracks buildings at the end of the road. After making sure the aerial traffic was clear, she slowly descended and touched down on the level, grassy terrain in a place where there were no other Digimon. Once settled on the ground, she dropped the glowing, transparent barrier that enveloped her back, allowing Dorbickmon to jump down to the ground.
GrandisKuwagamon and VictoryGreymon landed behind Imperialdramon, just as she reverted back to her Paildramon form. The area they touched down in was vacant, but several hundred meters down the training grounds, they could see the Strike Forces preparing for their morning exercises and combat drills.
"Thanks for the ride, Paildramon," Dorbickmon said to her with a friendly grin. "Sure beats walking."
"Don't worry about it," Paildramon replied while she settled back into her Perfect-level form. She turned around and looked at GrandisKuwagamon and VictoryGreymon. "Now, we should report in with our superiors."
"Looks like they've already found us," Dorbickmon pointed out, nodding over to the main road.
Walking up the road, past one of the stone guard towers, were the black forms of Alphamon and Karatenmon. The knight and crow ninja stepped off the smooth pavement and onto the soft grass of the training grounds, walking straight towards the team.
"They sure don't waste any time," Dorbickmon muttered. He pivoted on his heel and folded his arms as the pair of dark figures strode up to them.
"Sir Alphamon, Karatenmon," Paildramon greeted with a formal salute. Upon seeing the Royal Knight and Spymaster, VictoryGreymon raised his hand vertically to salute as well. The pair of mercenaries, not interested in any formalities, both opted to simply stare at Alphamon as he walked over.
"Paildramon, VictoryGreymon," Alphamon greeted, saluting them back. He lowered his hand and nodded gently at GrandisKuwagamon and Dorbickmon. "Welcome back. How are all of you?"
"Okay, considering I had to spend four days with the bug," Dorbickmon quipped in response.
"Tired. Annoyed by the company. Can we skip the small talk and get straight to business, Alphamon?" GrandisKuwagamon insisted, leering at Alphamon ardently. He was in no mood to beat around the bush; he wanted to collect on his reward.
Alphamon smiled at his bluntness. He nodded affirmatively and stood at ease. "Of course… How did the mission go?" he asked them.
Karatenmon placed one of his taloned hands on his hip and observed the group of four. "You're back earlier than I expected… Does that mean you found something?" he wondered astutely.
"We found out who the client that hired Black Pincer Company is," Paildramon explained. "We can confirm your suspicions that he is working with the Demon Lords. There is more too…"
Pleased and intrigued by the news, there was a flicker of a smile in Alphamon's surprised, gold eyes. "Oh? Is that so? It sounds like this has been a fruitful investigation, indeed. I see that the vigor of youth has pulled through once again. …Good job, everyone," he praised them. This was certainly more than he was expecting.
"You're welcome, Sir. We're just doing our jobs!" VictoryGreymon insisted, blushing and smiling proudly at Alphamon's commendation.
"Shall I tell you the details, Sir?" Paildramon asked the obsidian-clad Royal Knight.
"Yes, but not here. Come to my office in half an hour and we can debrief there," Alphamon told her. "First, take GrandisKuwagamon to the medical bay. You two can have the proximal restraint system removed now."
GrandisKuwagamon's scarlet eye flickered at his words. "…Hold on a second. So, what does that mean for me?" he demanded. "We found out my old client. I did what you want. You're going to hold up your end of the bargain, right?"
"Of course, GrandisKuwagamon. I am a knight of honour. My word is true," Alphamon assured him, staring at GrandisKuwagamon sincerely. "Your sentence will be reduced as promised."
"So, what about the power inhibitor?" GrandisKuwagamon asked, noting Alphamon's lack of mention of it before. "I can get that removed too and then I'm free to go once the viruses are out, right?"
Alphamon blinked at this. His expression morphed into a frown of grave confusion. "Pardon…? I think you misunderstand the situation, GrandisKuwagamon…"
These words struck GrandisKuwagamon like a brick wall. Alphamon's confused expression was all that he needed to see. The insect's shoulders tensed up and his black fingers curled into soft fists. "…What?" he asked in an incredulous hiss. His indignant voice was cold and controlled, but, underneath, he seethed like a fire.
"That wasn't the deal, GrandisKuwagamon," Karatenmon reminded him, looking at the mercenary seriously. "We said that we would reduce the sentence, not commute it."
GrandisKuwagamon glowered bitterly. His eye was as sharp as the pair of honed forceps that flanked it. "What the hell? What the hell did you think that I thought you meant when you said 'reduce'? I made a deal for freedom. I put my ass on the line, and you're trying to renege on our deal on a technicality?! Yeah, real honourable. I always knew you were a hypocrite, Alphamon. You're an empty suit of armour."
VictoryGreymon grimaced and looked between Alphamon and GrandisKuwagamon. "Grandis…" he attempted to mediate. It made him uncomfortable to see GrandisKuwagamon getting mad at his hero. It seemed to VictoryGreymon that he was blaming Alphamon for something that sounded like a misunderstanding.
Alphamon fixed his steely gaze at the angry insect Digimon. "I am not reneging on anything, GrandisKuwagamon. From the start, I never once promised you absolute freedom. I said that we would reduce your sentence but that your crimes would not be completely overlooked," he explained temperately. "I was going to suggest that you would only have two year's imprisonment in Havelock Prison. That is more than fair given your extensive crimes."
GrandisKuwagamon scoffed at this. "Two years…? Gee, how generous. Only twenty four months of my life rotting away in a cramped cell. Wonderful," he exclaimed, his words smothered with his brand of acidic sarcasm. "Meanwhile, the Demon Lords might decide to drop another Sky Colony on the Digital World and then it's lights out for me. Great."
"You were looking at up to fifteen years. If we were more vindictive, it might have been even longer," Alphamon reminded him. "Considering all of the crimes you committed as Black Pincer Company… theft, violent assault, grievous bodily harm, arson, kidnapping, extortion, breaking and entering, massive destruction of property, assassination, killing Order soldiers, among other crimes… I would say that two years is quite generous."
"Not to mention being a Grade-A prick," Dorbickmon muttered.
GrandisKuwagamon glared and turned on his heel, animatedly sticking his finger in Dorbickmon's face. "Yet this asshole gets to walk free after he straight-up attacked you guys repeatedly? Why?! Because his boyfriend's a Royal Knight? Talk about double standards… You're all about upholding the law when it suits you, huh, Alphamon? But when it's inconvenient, tough shit."
Dorbickmon growled fierily and was about to grab GrandisKuwagamon by the throat, but Paildramon reached out and grabbed his arm. She shook her head and gave him a firm leer.
"Calm down, GrandisKuwagamon…" Paildramon calmly told him. "You knew what you were getting into when you agreed to the deal, didn't you? I was under the impression that you were aware of the conditions."
"I can understand how you might feel that this is unfair, but Dorbickmon doesn't have quite as many crimes to his name as you do. The situation isn't the same…" Alphamon insisted.
"Yeah, my ass. Doubt you've even bothered to look into his checkered past," GrandisKuwagamon scathingly answered. "Didn't he try kidnapping Royal Knights and stuff? Not to mention be a key player in that weirdo's rebellion. Never mind the fact that it's his damn fault that the Demon Lords are free now to begin with."
Karatenmon frowned. "I'm sorry if you assumed that we would release you, but I thought we were pretty clear about our position. You know what they say about assuming."
"Tch…" GrandisKuwagamon scoffed. Internally, he knew that the Royal Knights didn't explicitly say that he would be released, and he just assumed that they would let him go, maybe with a week's confinement at most in order to save face. However, that didn't make the disappointment and frustration any less present. He was partially angry at himself for assuming and letting himself be hopeful, but he wanted to blame the Royal Knights. They were the reason why he was in this situation at all, he told himself. "I should have expected this…" he muttered bitterly.
Alphamon sighed. "We can talk later, GrandisKuwagamon. I'm sorry that you got your hopes up. …For what it's worth, thank you for helping us," he told him, his gold eyes staring at GrandisKuwagamon appreciatively.
"Wow, Alphamon! Now that I have your thanks, how could I ever ask for anything more?" he mockingly asked. GrandisKuwagamon wasn't in the mood for his thanks or any other platitudes. He rolled his eye and shrugged. "Whatever. I get it. Can we at least go and get this damn shock collar outta me so I at least have some semblance of dignity? That'd be great," he asked, his words swift and sharp with impatience.
Alphamon nodded at Paildramon and Karatenmon. "Do you two mind?" he asked them. "You can come to my office afterwards."
Paildramon nodded and walked over to the obsidian scarab Digimon. "Come on, GrandisKuwagamon…" she gently said to him, putting her clawed hand on his shoulder to lead him off the training grounds and onto the road.
She felt sympathy for him. He did help them quite a lot during that mission, and despite his bravado, she had seen some genuine moments out of the otherwise unpleasant mercenary. However, this was the Royal Knights' decision and the rules were the rules. Paildramon couldn't let her opinion of him over a few days change the fact that he had to answer for his crimes.
GrandisKuwagamon complied and reluctantly allowed himself to be led. "Guess this is the thanks I get for all the help…" he sarcastically complained, walking away and heading down the road alongside Paildramon and Karatenmon.
Alphamon, Dorbickmon, and VictoryGreymon all watched GrandisKuwagamon as he walked away.
VictoryGreymon's expression was deflated as he gazed after the angry bug Digimon. He winced subtly and rubbed the back of his neck. "Gee… I feel bad for him. He must be really disappointed if he thought he was going to be released," he empathetically mused. "He did help us…"
"That's on him if he didn't listen to the terms," Dorbickmon answered with disinterest. He folded his large, crimson arms across his brawny chest, smirking slightly. "Can't say I envy his stay in Havelock, though."
"It is hard to simply waive his offences with impunity when he doesn't seem to regret them in the slightest," Alphamon explained. "We can't just excuse every criminal that helps us." He looked at Dorbickmon pointedly. "…If it weren't for Examon's ardent insistence, you may not have been so lucky either. GrandisKuwagamon may have had a point about that."
Dorbickmon grimaced and looked away sheepishly. "It's not like I asked for him to do that…" he muttered indignantly. The dragon man sighed and turned his violet irises towards Alphamon, the sun beams shining on his face with the same tone as his yellow sclera. "Where is the big idiot anyway…? I want to talk to him."
Alphamon smiled slightly. "Examon is currently away on an inspection of Gold Keep. He will be back in a few days," he explained. "You are free to stick around, if you would like."
The earth-manipulating dragon looked a bit annoyed and disappointed, but he nodded. "Fine. …Maybe. I guess I will," he agreed noncommittally. Dorbickmon shrugged and began to wander over to the road. "Later, Alphamon. Gonna go to Knights' Cross and get my usual room. If the idiot comes back, tell him he owes me for making me wait."
Alphamon nodded at him and then looked at VictoryGreymon. "Why don't you and go rejoin the Strike Forces over there, VictoryGreymon?" he suggested, gesturing over to the gathering group of soldiers further down the training grounds.
VictoryGreymon was busy glancing down the road at GrandisKuwagamon with a hint of sadness in his eyes. Upon hearing his name, he immediately straightened up and saluted. "Yes, sir!" he obeyed eagerly, his smile snapping back onto his snout. "I'll go catch up on my training!"
The dark Royal Knight smiled, saluted him, and watched VictoryGreymon run off down the field. As the orange dragon man jogged away, Alphamon turned and looked down the main road of the castle courtyard. He could see Paildramon and Karatenmon leading GrandisKuwagamon towards the distant castle entrance.
The paladin couldn't help but feel somewhat guilty, but he wouldn't allow his emotions to overrule his logic and his sense of duty. He couldn't allow a criminal mercenary to go completely unpunished. They were the law, after all.
Over on the training grounds, the new recruits of the Strike Forces were preparing for their morning exercises. After two hours of physical training, they would later go on to perform combat drills, and then go through a combat simulation throughout the rest of the afternoon. Come supper time, they could have the rest of the evening off.
For now, however, they were beginning with stretches. These stretches loosened up their stiff, sleep-wracked muscles and cleared their drowsy minds, preparing them for the taxing day ahead.
TigerVespamon bent his lithe, flexible body forwards to touch his feet with ease. His body was limber enough that he could easily bow forwards without any resistance; it seemed as though he might even be able to contort into various complex positions with his flexibility.
As he reached the nadir of his stretch and pressed his fingers against the toes of his boots, he glanced upwards. His compound eyes shimmered like flawless rubies in the sunlight. He angled his head ever so slightly so that he could glance down the main road of the castle courtyard.
He had seen GrandisKuwagamon, Paildramon, VictoryGreymon, and Dorbickmon return from their mission. Although not once faltering in his methodical stretches, TigerVespamon had been slightly distracted by seeing GrandisKuwagamon return. He had watched as the group departed and as GrandisKuwagamon was led back to the castle.
VictoryGreymon had since made his way over to them and was currently talking with Captain Ouryumon. The muscular, orange, dragon man spoke animatedly with the tall, serpentine drake about the mission and his intention to return to his training.
"…I wonder how the mission went," SaviorHackmon mused from his place beside TigerVespamon. His bladed feet were pressed firmly against the ground as he bent forwards to touch his sword-like toes with his claws. As he bent down, his ever-present crimson cape clung to his back and he used the movement to glance behind him at VictoryGreymon. SaviorHackmon couldn't help but think about how GrandisKuwagamon was and what happened on their mission.
"They all appear to be safe and sound, which is reassuring," TigerVespamon responded with his reverberating, harmonious voice that didn't give anything away.
"That's our VictoryGreymon!" ShineGreymon hailed. There was a broad, confident smile on his white face and a charming gaze in the bright, blue eyes that lay behind his yellow helmet. "He always gets the job done in the end, even if he does fall flat on his face some of the time," he added with a chuckle. "We don't call him the Brick Wall for nothing."
"Must have been nice for him, getting to miss all these days of hard training," WarGreymon griped from the other side of SaviorHackmon. The brawny, orange-scaled, dragon warrior finished his set of toe touches and began reaching one arm over his head and leaning to the side. "Must have been a vacation compared to this…"
KaiserGreymon was nearby with BlackWarGreymon standing quietly at his side. The leader of the Greymon Five looked over at WarGreymon with a critical eye. "Don't complain, WarGreymon," he lightly admonished. "All of this training is important. We need to be cohesive with the Royal Knights' forces. As the Greymon Five, we need to be out in front, not holding them back."
WarGreymon rolled his green eyes. "Yeah, yeah. Thanks for the pep-talk," he muttered. "Shouldn't VictoryGreymon be going through this too then?"
BlackWarGreymon looked at KaiserGreymon. "It's in one ear and out the other, you know…" he pointed out to the sergeant of the Greymon Five. "It's WarGreymon; he'll complain until he physically can't anymore."
"Shut up, Black," WarGreymon grumbled at his friend.
"Okay, everyone," HippoGriffomon spoke up, addressing all of the recruits with his sharp voice. "Take a minute and then start your dynamic stretches. Do that for ten minutes and then we'll start."
A chorus of 'Yes, Sir,' resounded from the recruits, who stopped their stationary stretches and took a few moments to shake out their muscles.
ShineGreymon casually placed his hands behind his horned head and leaned back. He looked over at TigerVespamon with a grin. Ever since the pair ended up in the same training group together, the extroverted, easygoing ShineGreymon took a liking to the polite and reserved TigerVespamon. He made it his mission to help him loosen up.
"So, Vespa!" ShineGreymon said, striding up to him. "You're a kind of monk, right?"
TigerVespamon nodded softly. "I suppose that would not be an inaccurate way to put it. I am an acolyte – a monk in training, specifically."
"So, how'd you end up here?" ShineGreymon asked him, cocking his head to the side and sporting his usual winning smile. "Aren't you monks usually pacifists or something?"
TigerVespamon hesitated before shaking his head. "Not necessarily… While we do emphasize peace and harmony, it is important to be trained in the martial arts for both self-defence and the defence of those who are important to us. We learn many of our techniques from retired officers who were once in the Powers," he explained. "With that said, we believe that the peaceful way is the best one… It is simply a sad fact that there are times when we must fight in order to preserve that peace."
"Woah, that's pretty deep, dude," ShineGreymon declared, placing a hand on his hip. "I guess that's to be expected from you, huh? Monks are always saying profound stuff." He chuckled. "So, how'd you end up here?"
"I cannot join the Powers, so I decided that joining the Order of the Royal Knights would be the best course of action to defend against the Demon Lords…" TigerVespamon informed him. "Why did you join the Order? Or did you have a choice in the matter?"
"Well, when the whole exchange program with the Order came about after the Metal Empire battle, Commander BlitzGreymon said he wanted the Greymon Five to represent the Republic's military in the Order. We all had a choice, but we jumped at the chance," ShineGreymon explained enthusiastically. "Having the chance to work with the Royal Knights…? It's been a lifelong dream for all of us. Being here is like our awesomest dreams come true!" ShineGreymon's grin gently faded. "Besides, we want to stop those demons too…"
SaviorHackmon smiled at TigerVespamon. "…It's the same with me. I've always looked up to the Royal Knights, so getting the opportunity to be a recruit in the Strike Forces…? It's amazing," the metal dragon man agreed.
TigerVespamon nodded understandingly. "I see… It must be wonderful to be able to work with the Digimon who you look up to," he posited.
"It is," KaiserGreymon spoke up calmly. He stepped forwards and bent his knees, beginning to do forward lunges as a part of their dynamic stretching. "It… really makes you want to perform your best."
SaviorHackmon nodded and began to do the same lunging exercise as KaiserGreymon. "Yeah… Being Gankoomon's student for all those years really made me want to do my best too. I felt that, if I performed my best for him, I could become a Royal Knight one day."
"That's the spirit. Reach for the stars!" ShineGreymon declared, perking up again and grinning at TigerVespamon. "Right, Vespa?"
TigerVespamon smiled slightly. "I suppose there is nothing wrong with measured ambition…" he agreed.
"Hey, guys!" VictoryGreymon's voice called out. The group looked over to see the large dragon wandering over to them, a happy smile plastered on his reptilian face. "I'm back!"
"Welcome back," KaiserGreymon greeted him. "Just in time for our morning workout."
"Yo, V!" ShineGreymon hailed. He raised his hand and gave his friend a fist bump when the dragon stopped beside him. "Still in one piece?"
"Uh huh," VictoryGreymon responded, grinning widely. "I'm ready to get back to training!"
SaviorHackmon looked at him curiously. "Hey, VictoryGreymon-kun. How did it go?" he asked him, hoping to find out what exactly they did during the mission.
VictoryGreymon went and placed his Dramon Breaker over to the side of the training area before walking back to the group. "Well, uh… The details are kinda secret, so I can't say too much, but… we found what we were looking for," he explained as furtively as he could.
"Come on, Victory, not even a little hint?" ShineGreymon asked him with a coaxing grin. "You can do that much for your best friends, right?"
"Don't put him in an awkward position, ShineGreymon," KaiserGreymon chastised him.
VictoryGreymon rubbed the back of his head, wearing a sheepish grin on his face. He did feel a bit guilty about keeping them in the dark… "Well… I guess I can say that it had to do with the Demon Lords…" he tentatively explained.
"Why did GrandisKuwagamon go with you?" SaviorHackmon inquired as he continued doing his stretches.
TigerVespamon glanced over at them for a moment, but he quietly resumed his exercises. He wouldn't allow himself to become distracted by the mention of the mercenary.
VictoryGreymon ran his clawed fingers through his fire-hued hair. He supposed that was a fair question that he could answer. "Well… We were trying to find out who Black Pincer Company's client was since the Royal Knights thought that he was involved with releasing the Demon Lords," he explained, not realising that he was maybe saying more than he should. "That's why we needed Grandis."
"Seems pretty risky to let a merciless criminal go along with you guys, but I guess Paildramon would have it under control," WarGreymon mused.
"Yeah, he had this restraint system in him that kept him from escaping. But, even so… GrandisKuwagamon… he actually isn't all that bad," VictoryGreymon suggested, starting his own stretches by performing light, forward kicks.
Surprised, TigerVespamon stared over at VictoryGreymon. He didn't speak up against him nor did he begrudge him for his statement. He merely looked away from the dragon and pensively tugged at the hem of the crimson scarf wreathed around his neck.
SaviorHackmon looked over at VictoryGreymon with interest. VictoryGreymon's words matched his own opinion of the mercenary. GrandisKuwagamon certainly had a rough streak, and he was incredibly cynical, but some of the things that he did made SaviorHackmon feel like there was some good inside of him. Underlying GrandisKuwagamon's harsh words were actually advice. It made SaviorHackmon feel like the mercenary cared in his own, cynical way. He felt like there was a reason for why he was like he was, and that there was still hope for him. This made SaviorHackmon want to know what VictoryGreymon meant.
"What makes you say that, VictoryGreymon-kun?" SaviorHackmon asked him curiously.
"After we got the information we needed, I… accidentally bumped into this demon Digimon on the street. He got kinda mad, so he and his gang attacked us," VictoryGreymon said with an embarrassed, awkward smile on his snout.
WarGreymon rolled his eyes, also kicking aggressively in front of himself as a part of their pre-exercise routine. "I knew you'd screw up somehow. You're lucky you made it out in one piece… So, what happened?" he said between grunts.
VictoryGreymon smiled uneasily. "Actually… I tripped and fell behind when we were running away. The demon Digimon were about to beat the stuffing outta me, but… GrandisKuwagamon came back to help me," he informed them, a genuinely warm smile on his face. "He helped me up and flew me out of there."
SaviorHackmon nearly balked at his words. "He… He did…?" he asked for confirmation, his maturing, yellow eyes widening with disbelief. "GrandisKuwagamon saved you?"
"Yeah! I almost couldn't believe it myself, but I guess this proves that you shouldn't judge a book by its cover," VictoryGreymon exclaimed optimistically. "If it weren't for him, my bacon would be toast right now. Haha!"
"Yeah… I guess so…" SaviorHackmon said to himself. He frowned softly and reflected on VictoryGreymon's words. If GrandisKuwagamon went out of his way to save VictoryGreymon, then maybe SaviorHackmon was right about him after all. Maybe he was a good guy, deep inside. A smile crawled onto SaviorHackmon's lips.
"Perhaps he was worried about the restraint system activating if he left you behind," TigerVespamon coolly suggested. "I would prefer not to believe that it was such a cynical gesture, but we cannot deny that it is a possibility."
"Maybe…" VictoryGreymon conceded, debating TigerVespamon's words. "But the system was only tied to Paildramon. Even if he didn't know that, I like to think that he did it because he cares."
TigerVespamon bowed his head slightly. "I would as well… However, there is plenty of evidence that refutes that claim…" he thoughtfully responded.
SaviorHackmon frowned. "I don't know, TigerVespamon… I've seen him be kind in his own way…" he contended in the mercenary's defence. "Besides, there's only one way to find out for sure."
"Are you planning on talking to him?" ShineGreymon questioned.
"I'd like to…" SaviorHackmon responded uncertainly.
VictoryGreymon smiled over at him. "Hey, I volunteered to go on dungeon guard duty tonight to make up for my absence," he told SaviorHackmon. "You've spoken to him before, so I don't see why you can't again. I'll talk to my superior to make sure it's alright."
SaviorHackmon's face lit up and he grinned over at VictoryGreymon. "Thanks, VictoryGreymon…" he responded gratefully. "I appreciate it. I'd like to know what he's thinking right now."
"No problem, SaviorHackmon. I go on duty after dinner. We all have free time this evening right?" VictoryGreymon asked for confirmation.
"Yes," KaiserGreymon confirmed. "Since we'll be working all day, we'll be able to relax tonight."
"Great. You can swing by the dungeons then," VictoryGreymon said to SaviorHackmon encouragingly.
ShineGreymon shrugged. "I guess if you're gonna be busy, Victory, we'll just go to the tavern," he mused. He flashed a grin at TigerVespamon. "Hey, why don't you come with us, Vespa!?"
"Er… I apologise, but I do not consume alcohol…" TigerVespamon responded simply. "It is rather unhealthy and it lowers one's inhibitions."
"It's fine; Vic doesn't drink either, really. Which is weird since his dad's a famous brewer, but hey! Just come and enjoy our company!" ShineGreymon enthusiastically suggested, standing up and slinging an arm over TigerVespamon's shoulders.
"I… suppose I could do that…" TigerVespamon conceded, although still a bit uncomfortable with ShineGreymon's close contact. "…Sharing everyone's company may be quite pleasant."
"Great!" ShineGreymon exclaimed. He leaned in towards the insect Digimon a bit. "Hey, have you noticed some of the sexy female Digimon in our class of recruits? Those toned muscles look amazing," he asked in a hushed voice. "I bet they're really strong…"
"I… have not," TigerVespamon politely responded.
"You're a handsome guy. I bet you could have a chance with them under my tutelage," ShineGreymon encouraged him with a conspiratorial, man-to-man grin. "Just have to work on your chat-up lines."
"Respectfully, I am not interested in that sort of interaction… They are my fellow recruits, not objects of carnal desire," TigerVespamon calmly explained.
ShineGreymon frowned curiously and cocked his head to the side as if TigerVespamon was speaking a foreign language. "Jeez… I mean, yeah, duh, but… nothing at all, Vespa? Not even a spark? The Heavenly Choir must have really done a number on you." He looked down between TigerVespamon's legs. "I get you must be repressed as a monk, but is everything still working down there? Does it stop functioning if you don't use it?"
TigerVespamon's cheeks turned bright red. "I… I… Th-Th-That is not even remotely how anatomy works…!" he stammered.
"Leave the poor guy alone, Shine… You're making him uncomfortable" BlackWarGreymon murmured, shooting him a cool glare.
ShineGreymon knew that look. "I'm kidding, I'm kidding! Haha."
"Just ignore the pervert," WarGreymon grumbled.
"Look who's talking!"
As the other Digimon spoke amicably and the recruits began to transition from stretches to physical exercises, SaviorHackmon thought quietly to himself.
"So you really saved VictoryGreymon…? What happened to altruism being for naïve idiots?" SaviorHackmon quietly thought as he finished off his stretches.
He was going to speak to GrandisKuwagamon after he was finished for the day. SaviorHackmon wanted to hear from GrandisKuwagamon what happened on the mission, and if he would admit to saving VictoryGreymon. He felt like he was beginning to understand GrandisKuwagamon more. He wanted to put his theory to the test…
About half an hour passed since the team of four arrived back at Castle Albion. Paildramon and GrandisKuwagamon both underwent the procedure to remove the proximal restraint system from their bodies. However, GrandisKuwagamon still retained the inhibiting virus that prevented him from using his abilities or switching forms. After they finished at the medical bay, Paildramon and Karatenmon led him back to his cell in the castle's dungeons.
With that done, Paildramon walked up the stairs to the third level of the castle, where the administrative wing of the headquarters was. She rubbed the cobalt scales on the back of her neck, which was still a bit sore from the procedure. Upon reaching the top of the stairs, the humanoid dragon headed down the corridor to Alphamon's office. She came to a halt in front of the room opposite that of High Administrator Shutumon's office. After waiting a moment, Paildramon knocked on Alphamon's office door.
"Enter," Alphamon's voice beckoned from the other side of the door.
Paildramon opened the door and entered the room. It was spacious and formal, but also austere. This office was strictly for official business, meetings, and debriefings. There were no trimmings or decorations – simply a stone floor and bare walls. Alphamon sat behind his large desk, which stood at the opposite end of the room and facing the entrance. On top of the desk was a clutter of books, papers and folders. They were messily strewn across the surface yet there seemed to be an internal logic to the clutter. Nevertheless, it would have earned a berating from Duftmon.
Directly in front of the desk were three chairs. Positioned between those chairs and the office door were two couches that faced one another, separated by a small coffee table. Over in the corner of the room, was a coffee machine sitting ominously atop a table. She had heard the stories about it. Lingering in the office room was the faint but smoky and pungent aroma of coffee beans.
The over sergeant stepped inside and saluted in a formal manner. As she did, she noticed Karatenmon casually leaning against the right wall. He smiled at her and nodded. She wondered how he got here so quickly when he was only with her a few minutes ago.
"Paildramon," Alphamon greeted, standing to his feet behind the desk. "Thank you for coming. Stand at ease."
Paildramon lowered her gauntlet-covered hand and relaxed slightly, though she still stood upright with impeccable posture. "Yes, Sir Alphamon."
"What do you have to report?" Karatenmon asked her.
"Dorbickmon, VictoryGreymon, GrandisKuwagamon and I travelled to Dark Point in order to infiltrate Black Pincer Company's office. While there, one of your spies, Triceramon, informed us of the situation in the city. Blitzmon and Bolgmon were present in the city, as were about a hundred escaped Dark Area demons who have been setting up in other gangs' territory in the city," Paildramon started out by informing them.
"A hundred? Hmm… Not quite a legion, but that's about a battalion's worth… They must have all escaped together. Perhaps it was not under the Demon Lords' direction, like one might assume. If one is confined to captivity and the cage door suddenly snaps open, one's natural instinct would be to make a break for freedom, wouldn't it?" Alphamon mused. He looked at Paildramon steadily. "Hm… I apologise. Please, continue."
Paildramon nodded. "During the night, we carefully infiltrated the office. Unfortunately – or, I suppose, 'fortunately', as it turns out – Blitzmon and Bolgmon came back while GrandisKuwagamon and I were inside," she explained. "We were able to hide without them noticing us, and we overheard them talking."
"Oh…?" Karatenmon asked, standing up from the wall and staring at Paildramon with interest.
"I can confirm the species of their client, although the exact individual is unclear. I can also confirm that they are indeed working with the Demon Lords, as well as the Demon Lords' present location," Paildramon explained.
Karatenmon grinned. "Nice going, Paildramon," he commended her. "I knew I made the right choice."
Alphamon nodded. "Excellent work, indeed… Where are they right now?" he asked her.
"The mercenaries mentioned that they are in the Desolate Moors," Paildramon explained, referring to the region within the Gloaming Fields. "Blitzmon and Bolgmon are travelling there to meet with their client. Unfortunately, that's all I know for sure. They didn't exactly go into details."
"The Desolate Moors…" Alphamon mused, bringing his fingers to his chin pensively. "So they are in the Gloaming Fields, after all… I suppose it would feel like something of a safe harbour to them. Not unlike water to a beached fish... They have both allies and hospitable terrain there…"
Karatenmon nodded. "The mayors in charge of Vespers and Sepulcrum, as well as the lords of the various fiefs and duchies, would be neutral to their presence at worst and active supporters at best. The Demon Lords must know that there are a lot of ex-Choir fallen angels there. Not to mention ambitious barons and nihilistic undead Digimon who would love to upset the status quo," the Spymaster deliberated.
"Yes, you are correct, Karatenmon. The Gloaming Fields are a haven for the Demon Lords." The Aloof Hermit gazed at Paildramon curiously. "And what of Black Pincer Company's client…?"
"As I said, I don't know the exact individual, but I know the name and species," Paildramon clarified.
"That is as good as we could have hoped for," Alphamon assured her. "Please, go on…"
Paildramon nodded calmly and looked Alphamon in the eyes. "Alright… Blitzmon said that the client who had been paying them was named Bagramon… Bagramon is the one who they are going to meet."
The name 'Bagramon' cut through Alphamon like a sword. His golden eyes widened with absolute shock. The word had struck him like a sledgehammer to the gut, shattering his armour and impacting the tender flesh beneath. Although not making any sudden movements or reactions, he suddenly grew quiet. Alphamon became absorbed in the name and Paildramon's revelation. He fell deep into his own thoughts as his keen mind raced to take in the information.
Could it be…? Could it be that Bagramon? The one who he spoke to only six months ago? The fallen angel Digimon who he had fought during the Heavenly War? The brother of his once-friend: DarkKnightmon…? The one who Alphamon sought out to tell about the death of his brother, slain at Alphamon's own hands? The demon lord who he had sought forgiveness from?
"Bagramon…" Alphamon whispered, the word dancing on his gutted breath. His exhale was empty and his eyes were incredulous.
It seemed so unfeasible to him. Bagramon had seemed so at peace with his life. He seemed at peace with the Heavenly War. It appeared to Alphamon that he only wished to leave a peaceful and secluded life, removed from the past – from the world. Not unlike what Alphamon had done himself, that time… Was it all a lie? Was Bagramon lying to his face and plotting in secret that entire time?
Alphamon felt an unsettled tightness in his chest as he soaked in the bitter news. Bagramon had given advice… reassurance to Alphamon. He had told him not to blame himself for DarkKnightmon's betrayal and death. He had told him that DarkKnightmon thought of him as his brother… He shared that personal, vulnerable moment with Bagramon. He almost came to view Bagramon as a friend, and, if not that, then someone who also understood DarkKnightmon.
Alphamon's eyes narrowed tightly and his citrine eyes burned a tumultuous, blood red glow, his irises shifting into their piercing ruby hues as his emotions swelled with intensity. He clenched his fists and took a deep, calming breath as he stared at Paildramon. "Paildramon… Are you sure about this…?" he asked, his voice now deadly serious. Empty was it of its usual warmth, restrained levity, and meandering philosophy. It was now cold and professional.
Paildramon noticed his abrupt change in demeanour, but she didn't outwardly react to it, even if it did send a mild chill down her spine. "Yes, Sir Alphamon," she confirmed. "Both GrandisKuwagamon and I heard him say that it was Bagramon."
Before Alphamon could relinquish a wince, he shut his eyes. "It can be only one…" he murmured. He opened his eyes again, restraining his emotions and revealing his usual golden irises. "…Thank you, Paildramon… The work of you and your team has been invaluable."
"I'm glad to hear that," Paildramon responded with a slight smile. "It has been my honour, Sir Alphamon."
"Unless there is anything else, you are free to go," Alphamon told her.
Paildramon shook her head. "Those are the only things that we found," she responded.
"You can give me a rundown on the details of what happened," Karatenmon informed her, walking over to Paildramon. "You don't need to bother with an official report. I like to keep my spies' missions off the record, even if you aren't officially part of the Stealth Forces."
"Alright…" Paildramon looked over at Alphamon one more time. "…About GrandisKuwagamon, Sir. I feel that I should mention that he saved VictoryGreymon… We accidentally bumped into some of the Dark Area demons and angered them. As we were escaping, VictoryGreymon tripped. GrandisKuwagamon went back for him and probably saved him from at least a terrible beating, if not worse. It wasn't out of self-interest either; he put the pieces together and realised that I was the one who the proximal restraint system was linked to." Paildramon scratched her cheek with one of her claws. "I just felt that I should mention that piece of information as well. I am not expecting anything, of course. I think his punishment is fair, but I wanted you to have all the information."
"…I see. Thank you for telling me that, Paildramon," Alphamon responded, although his voice sounded distracted and his disposition burdened by the other information he received. "You are dismissed."
Paildramon saluted. "Over sergeant Paildramon, returning to duty."
As Paildramon turned and walked out of the office, Karatenmon gave Alphamon a stealthy glance. "…Are you okay, Alphamon?" the ninja asked him, noticing the subtle change in his voice and actions.
The Royal Knight closed his eyes meditatively, trying to keep himself centered. "…There is some coffee that is too bitter to swallow, Karatenmon, even for me," he responded.
Karatenmon nodded gently. "Genki dashite ne, Alphamon," he told Alphamon in his native Eastern Digimoji. He gave the knight a small smile and bowed slightly before excusing himself as well.
Alphamon was left on his own to digest the information that he had received. He released a weighty sigh and placed his hands on his desk. He leaned forwards, bowed his head, and closed his eyes.
Bagramon…
He felt a fool for not have guessing… In retrospect, it all seemed so obvious. Bagramon had lost half of his body to the Heavenly Choir. He had been forced into exile, while the Three Great Angels remained in power. Of course he wouldn't let that go so easily…
Alphamon felt naïve. He had wanted to think the best of Bagramon. He wanted to believe that Digimon could change for the better, despite their pasts. He always needed to believe in that…
The Lord of the Empty Seat sat down in his chair and leaned forwards onto his desk. He propped an elbow on the surface and placed his fingers on his forehead, the fingertips tensely rubbing the outline of the ruby-like Digicore Interface.
"I just can't seem to escape you, can I…?
"DarkKnightmon…"