Late chapter is late, sorry in advance but I hope this banger of a chapter makes up for it :D

Fun Fact, I think I can safely the story has about... 4-5 Chapter Remaining!

LordKillenKing: Yeah I sat on the idea of who the team leader would be for awhile, and while I think the team doesn't really have one still, one loud idiot motivating everyone is a good stand in for the arc :D

vivilion10: I always have trouble deciding which name is better for the Knight honestly, I think LordKnightmon fits better when their position is (As in this story) commanding the Knightmon, but if I were to use the Digimon as more solo antagonist I'd probably prefer Crusadermon, I guess I like the idea that the Digimon would go by either name depending on the context.

Shuriken6: Yeah figuring out who the "Leader" is was fun, I examined the journey's they've all gone through emotionally over the course of the story and how they've developed and changed. And really, the more I looked back through old material, it seemed kind of obvious it had to be Cody, he's just always been someone with a strong sense of what is right, even if he is loud and bullheaded XD

My boy is Pure of Heart, Dumb of Ass, and I love him for it!

. . .

Sam

. . .

It had taken some time, but after passing through the final gateway Sam had arrived at her destination. Standing now on a platform just outside the massive fortress, high walls and heavenly thunder rumbling in the sky above where she could vaguely make out a serpentine figure moving throughout the clouds. The great spire were unlike anything she'd seen in this world or the Human one.

She might have described it as beautiful, if not for her reason to be here. "So what happens now?" She questioned, looking back to Alphamon.

"Now," He looked back down at her, "We search for Megidramon, and draw out your power to seal him away again."

Sam swallowed nervously, "And what if I can't?" She questioned, "I've only done it once before, in this life anyways... And that was an accident."

"Magnamon will assist you," Alphamon stated, motioning to the Golden Knight. "As he shares a fragment of your power, he can help you draw it out properly."

Sam blinked in surprise, "Wait, what?"

The mighty Knight leader shot a glance to Magnamon, "It is now or never, she must know."

"I am well aware," The gilded warrior scoffed, shaking his head before looking to Sam. "In your past life, I was your Guardian." He explained, "And just as Alphamon can tap into Gennai's Inforce, I may channel a fraction of your true power, which will hopefully be enough to catalyze your own awakening."

"You were my-" Sam's words were interrupted as the two bodies being carried by Magnamon and Alphamon stirred.

"Hrnngh... Wh-Where?" SlashAngemon groaned out, landing on the ground as Magnamon released him. "Where is he... Where is that demon!?"

Marsmon managed to retain much more of his composure as he forced himself up as well, though he still shuddered from his injuries. "It seems we have returned to the Bastion." Before his eyes darted around, "No sign of Minervamon or Ceresmon I see..." Looking to Alphamon.

To which the Knight shook his head, "No, it seems they perished in your foolish battle."

The God of War scoffed, "The Miracle is in our possession now, is she not?"

"And in exchange our fighting forces have taken a significant hit," He fired back, "With only a single Angel Remaining, and you the final Olympian." He narrowed his eyes sharply, "Go recover from your injuries, and count yourself lucky I didn't leave you on that mountainside."

Marsmon seemed to have learned his lesson after their last argument, and simply began to storm off. While SlashAngemon looked between them all in disbelief, "But... You destroyed them didn't? Alphamon?" He questioned.

"No, I did not." He said simply, "And I encourage you to think hard about why you are the only remaining Angel, before making such a rash decision again." Before looking back to Magnamon. "I'm going to find Gallantmon, see if he has any leads on Megidramon." He stated, eyes drifting to Sam. "Ensure she is comfortable for the remainder of her time here..."

The Golden knight nodded, "Of course." Before Alphamon launched into the sky, flying on nothing but his own force of will it seemed as he made his way to the main spire. And SlashAngemon limped off to take care of his own injuries, leaving them alone. Magnamon remained silent for a moment, before looking back at her. "Come on then," Turning back to her and offering a hand. "I will fly us to the upper level." Though he didn't sound too excited about it.

Sam reluctantly took his clawed hand, which he clenched around her wrist before taking flight in an instant causing her to gasp. "Agh! T-Take it easy!" And given his attitude towards her, she didn't quite trust his grip.

"The faster we get there the better." He scoffed in response, angling them upwards as they began a rapid ascent. Below, she could see that this massive fortress was actually floating! A great chasm of some kind filled the space beneath it, the only ways in and out being the mighty bridges or air travel.

They soared over the walls, ramparts and ranks of PawnChessmon passed by beneath them. Sam clenched her eyes shut, the wind howling in her ears. But within seconds, they were slowing down, and just as she opened her eyes, his grip on her arm was released and she hit a solid marble surface with her backside. "Oh god... I think I'm gonna be sick." She groaned, trying to shake off the head rush.

"Make yourself comfortable," Magnamon grunted, ignoring her clear discomfort. "This is where you'll be staying until it is time."

Sam finally regained her composure, rising up to her feet as she took in the room. Stepping inside off the large balcony, she was met with an enormous personal suite, like a room that belonged to a king! Walls lined with beautiful etchings and imagery of Knights, and a massive bed that could probably fit someone three times her size! She was so taken in by the sight of it all she almost didn't notice Magnamon making his way to the exit.

"Wait!" She called out as he reached the large double doors, "Aren't you going to... I don't know, show me how to use the Miracle?"

"Hmph, you will learn when it is time." He scoffed, shooting a sideways glance back at her. "Until then I'd much rather avoid your company."

Her eyes widened at his response, and the hatefulness in his eyes, before she grit her teeth and clenched her fists. "What the hell is your problem?" She demanded, fed up with his attitude. "We were Partners before right? So what are you jealous I got paired up with Darcmon or something!?"

"Jealousy?" He repeated with a scoffing laugh like it was a bad joke, "How vain... No, Samantha the reason I hate you is because you showed me your true colors in the end of our time together." Turning around fully to face her. "That we were never truly equals in your eyes..."

She blinked in confusion, "What are you talking about? What exactly did I do?"

Magnamon's glare only intensified, "I had hoped by now you might have regained some of your memory but it seems my bid to fill you with remorse before the end won't come to fruition," He scoffed, shaking his head. "So I'll say it plainly-"

"It'd certainly be a nice change of pace," She cut in sharply, "I was starting to think you just enjoyed being vague."

Ignoring her remarks, he continued. "I was your protector, and I shared your power, meager as mine was by comparison," His hands clenched tightly into fists. "And when the time came for us to seal away Megidramon, you went on alone... You did not need, nor want me by your side in those final moments."

It clicked in her head what he meant, her eyes widening. "He... Was going to sacrifice himself with me? That's why he's mad!?" She was bewildered by the idea, "It sounds like I was just trying to protect you!" She argued, "So we didn't both have to die!"

"I WAS YOUR GUARDIAN!" He snapped back at her, causing her to stumble back from the intensity, as he slammed a hand into his armored chest. "I didn't want you to protect me!" Glaring down at her now fearful expression, looking for a moment as though he were going to continue shouting at her. Before he scoffed and turned away, storming out through the rooms door. With lingering thoughts, and old wounds reopened. "I didn't want to be left behind..."

Leaving Sam there in silence, only to breathe out a sigh as his footsteps grew further and further away. "Seems like everyone is mad at me lately..." She sighed heavily, thinking back to one knucklehead in particular, as she took a seat and stared up at the ceiling. "Is that how you feel Cody? You'd rather die with me than live to see the world saved?" Idly reaching for her digivice in her pocket, slowly pulling it out, as she thought of their time together. Thinking of the things she wished she'd said, but it was too late now. "I wonder... Did you feel the same way? Were you-" Her thoughts coming to a screeching halt, as she laid eyes on a Digivice that was clearly not her own. Her hand tightened into an iron grip around it, as she grit her teeth. "Actually the biggest IDIOT I'VE EVER MET!?"

. . .

Cody

. . .

"Achoo!" Cody lurched a bit on his cloud, rubbing his nose following the sneeze. "Damn it's cold over the ocean."

"You could say that again!" Gokuwmon nodded, as they flew at high speed through the night. "But I think I see our target! Look!" Pointing ahead to the large stone structure hovering above the sea, "That must be the Egress LovelyAngemon was talking about, our Gateway..."

Cody tensed up as he stood from his cloud, "Then we're almost there..."

They flew right up to the top of the stairs, where the archway waited for them. Only, it wasn't active, just an empty shell. "So uh... How do we activate it?"

Cody swallowed dryly, "H-How the hell am I supposed to know?"

"Ah, there you are!" Both of them jumped as a voice sounded behind them, turning to see the robed form of Wisemon hovering up the stairs. "I've been waiting, seems Master Gennai's intuition is apt as ever!"

"Who are you supposed to be?" Gokuwmon grunted, crossing his arms.

"Whoever you are," Cody added quickly, "Stay out of our way, we're going to get Sam and you can't stop us."

"On the contrary!" He chuckled lightly, "I'm only here to help you." He assured, floating past them to the archway, "Allow me," Waving his hands over the stonework as his fingers glowed against it. The gateway humming to life as the swirling vortex of colors formed within its braces. "It'll take a short while to reach the Terminal Egress, and from there you'll have to take a different gateway to the Bastion." He explained.

Gokuwmon and Cody both looked to one another, before the young man shrugged. "Alright, and how will we know which one we have to take? How will we even activate it?"

"Your device should guide you," He assured with a nod, "Once at the gateway, it should respond to your touch, you are Chosen after all." Wisemon added.

"So you're not coming along?" Gokuwmon questioned.

"No, I have done my part here." He replied simply, "But I'm sure the Fates won't keep us apart for long, until then I wish you both luck." Bowing his head to them respectfully.

"Uh... Thanks I guess," Cody blinked in surprise at the gesture, before motioning to the portal. "Alright, lets quit wasting time."

Gokuwmon nodded, "Terminal Egress here we come!"

. . .

Alphamon

. . .

While the passionate duo of warriors began their final approach, obsidian Knight stood up before the round table. His eyes gazing over a crude map of the Digital World, with rough estimations of the other Sphere's the remained. Out of the dozens that existed, more than half had been stricken from the map, signifying their destruction at the hands of Megidramon.

"One way or another, it will all be over soon." He thought with a heavy sigh, before the sound of the chamber doors opening drew his eyes upward. The form of an ivory knight entered, with a flowing cape of crimson behind him, just who he'd been waiting for. "Gallantmon, tell me you've located Megidramon."

The opulent crimson knight came to a stop, hesitating for a moment, before shaking his head. "No, and I've found no sign of our missing Dragon either," He explained, "But there's something else..." He continued and approached the table, spreading his hands across the map. "I think I've found a pattern, and I don't like it."

Alphamon quirked an eyebrow, "A pattern? Are you still on that-"

"Yes!" He snapped at him harshly, "And for you sake I hope I'm wrong, you tasked me with tracking this monster because of our connection through the Digital Hazard so silence your doubts and listen!" He ordered, waiting to see if Alphamon would rebuttal, before planting a finger on one of the lower Spheres on the map. "This was the first Sphere destroyed by Megidramon, where he was sealed away originally." Gallantmon began, his finger tracing to another Sphere, and then another, "Since then he has moved steadily from place to place, destroying any Sphere's he came into contact with... I've only been able to map his movements by following the faint traces of his energy at the site of a Sphere's destruction, it's not very accurate and really only gives me a rough idea of where he is heading." He explained, before he brought his finger to a single Sphere that remained intact of those in the lower echelon. "However, I was blinded by my preconceived beliefs on how this monster would behave."

Alphamon narrowed his eyes at the map, "What are you saying?" He questioned, already getting a bad feeling.

"I assumed Megidramon was destroying every Sphere he came into contact with," Gallantmon continued, "But for a brief moment, he entered this Sphere, not long enough to destroy it, for what reason he did this I do not know... But almost immediately afterwards," He drew his finger up to the higher Spheres, "He began a more direct search for the other Great Dragons, I do not think that's coincidence."

"And that Sphere is no ordinary one," Alphamon noted, "Or rather, it was until recently." His eyes flicking back up to Gallantmon. "It's the Sphere the Miracle was residing within, and where she met the Chosen..."

"Was?" He questioned.

Alphamon found himself hesitating for a moment, for what reason he wasn't sure. "We have acquired her, and are preparing for the Sealing Ritual."

The crimson knights hand curled into a fist, "You engaged with the Chosen again!?"

"It was Marsmon," Alphamon corrected, "He went over my head, we lost of few of the Olympians, and ClavisAngemon."

"So our fighting power has effectively been diminished?" Gallantmon scoffed shaking his head, "And we've made an enemy of the only remaining allies we might have had in this conflict."

"But now we have the Miracle," Alphamon argued, pulling back from the table. "Once she is ready, Megidramon will no longer pose a threat to us."

"And what if Megidramon destroys us all before she is ready?" Gallantmon questioned sharply, "Have you even considered that possibility?"

But Alphamon dismissed him with a wave, "When the time comes she will be prepared, I am sure of it..." Turning to the nearby balcony, "I will converse with Azulongmon, see what wisdom he may offer... Was there anything else?"

"There was," Gallantmon answered, "Since the attack on Goldramon and Magnadramon, I've been unable to find any trace of Megidramon's energy, since he departed that Sphere's remains he has gone completely dark."

Alphamon paused for a moment, pondering that information. But before he could properly respond, the doors were thrown open by the Golden Knight himself. "We might have a problem," Magnamon said quickly, pausing as he spotted Gallantmon, giving him a nod before looking to the door. "Go on then, tell them what you told me."

Both knights turned to see Samantha stepping inside, moving forward beneath their gaze. "Ah, Samantha, what do you have for us?" The commanding Knight questioned.

She looked up at him, hands clenching tightly around the Digivice in her palms. "I think... One of my idiot friends might be up to something."

Alphamon quirked an eyebrow, his eyes flicking to Magnamon before going back to her. "What do you mean? Like a rescue?" He questioned, "What makes you think that?"

"Because," She held out the digivice, "This isn't my Digivice, Cody swapped them at the last second, this one belongs to him and I know for a fact there is a way to track these."

"But this far?" Magnamon questioned, "From entire Sphere's away? I'm not sure I believe it."

Alphamon nodded his head, "Indeed, it doesn't seem possible... And besides, your friends seemed thoroughly discouraged before."

"Yeah but Cody is-" She wasn't quite sure how else to put it. "An idiot, a stubborn jackass, he doesn't know when to back down." She said, shaking her head, "Even if the others refuse to follow him... He'll still come for me, I... I'm sure of it..." Her eyes falling to the floor.

"Then I will deal with him, and his partner," Magnamon assured, "Again."

Sam tensed up at that, "What!? No, you can't hurt them!" Looking back at him, then to Alphamon waiting for him to step in.

"I'm sorry Samantha," He simply shook his head. "We stand on the precipice of destruction, one wrong move could doom all of the Digital World," He stated grimly. "If your friend truly does come for you, we will not take any risks..."

She felt her heart sink, "B-But you can't-" Before Magnamon grabbed her arm, starting to pull her away. "Hey! Let me go! Stop it!" Trying to kick and punch at him. Her eyes darting back to Alphamon, watching as he turned away from her. "Alphamon PLEASE!"

Gallantmon watched her getting dragged away sadly, sighing heavily as he lowered his head. "Truly, the Royal Knights have lost more than their honor..." Before he too began making his way to the exit.

"Gallantmon," But he stopped when Alphamon spoke, "If it comes down to it... Are you prepared to act in Fealty to your Leader? For the preservation of the Digital World?"

He remained rooted in place for a moment, before looking back and giving a small nod. "I will do what I must."

. . .

Cody

. . .

Alongside Gokuwmon, Cody stumbled out through the Egress to a platform outside the massive structure that made up its hub. Blinking as he took in his surroundings, the streams of dating washing over the surrounding area like water. "Whoa..." He muttered, taking a few steps forward. "This place is wild."

"Come on," Gokuwmon summoned up some more clouds, "We can't waste any time, what gateway do we need to take?" He questioned, pointing out the many of them that extended from the main structure."

"Uh hang on..." Cody pulled out Sam's digivice, noting that the screen had grown a little fuzzy with static, "Should be... That way, lets go!" Hopping onto a cloud, the duo would fly high over the walls of the coliseum structure, watching the beautiful gardens and flowing water within pass by beneath them. "Man, Maddie would love this place."

"We can bring everyone once we're finished." Gokuwmon assured with a nod.

"Sounds like a plan," Cody grinned, angling his cloud towards one of the Gateways that seemed to be where Sam's digivice was pointing him. "Alright I think this is the place." The pinging on the screen growing faster, as he touched down alongside his partner. "Crazy to think we're so close... Sure hope the others found their fighting Spirit." Coming to a stop before the archway.

"Either way," Gokuwmon smirked down at him. "We'll get her back, whatever it takes." Before looking to the gateway, "So how do we turn this thing on?"

Cody shrugged, "Wisemon said it would respond to me because I'm Chosen or whatever, so... Open Sesame!" He called out, shouting at the doorway, to no effect. "Hmm... Any ideas?" He asked, stepping closer and tapping the stone arch.

"Iunno," Gokuwmon shrugged, leaning over as he inspected some of the symbols. "Does it have any wires?"

"Wires?" Cody repeated.

"Kokuwamon said that sometimes when Thomas' stuff doesn't work he unplugs it and plugs it back in." He clarified.

"Uh yeah I don't think that applies to giant monolithic stone gateways."

"Oh I'm sorry, are you an expert?" The monkey warrior questioned with sarcasm dripping from his voice.

To which Cody simply rolled his eyes, "Well you keep looking for wires while I try to be useful." He retorted, running his fingers across the surface, "Come on... You gotta give me something here-"

"Cody!" Gokuwmon exclaimed, "Over here, look!"

Cody quirked an eyebrow and made his way over to see what his partner had found. His eyes widening as he saw the symbols etched in the stone, "Some of these... They look like our Crests," He noted aloud, "Alright... So maybe here?" He placed his glowing hand on the stonework, and instantly it began to hum in response, the doorway starting to form beneath the arch. "Nice! Looks like we're in business!"

Gokuwmon nodded with a grin, as they both made their way around to the front. "Then lets go! Time to bring Sam home!"

Cody nodded as well, standing beside his partner before the swirling vortex. "Right, one way or another..." He found his feet struggling to move for a moment, but not because he lacked the resolve to step into the doorway, but because- "Hey," He looked to his partner, "Whatever happens, I'm glad I met in that alley." And held up his fist.

Gokuwmon blinked in surprise at his words, before nodding with a smirk. "Yeah, same here." Bumping knuckles with him, "Now lets go get her, partner."

. . .

Alphamon

. . .

After the many revelations provided by both his fellow Knight Gallantmon, and Samantha, Alphamon made his way to the top of the spire. To the platform that nearly touched the clouds themselves above. Stepping out onto the windy precipice as he turned his eyes to the storm above, knowing his presence would not go unnoticed, he needed only wait for the Great Dragon to arrive.

Sure enough, only moments after he'd arrived there was a shift in the storm above. The clouds parting as the enormous serpentine dragon emerged from within, looming over the platform while his great size dwarfed Alphamon himself and most of the spire.

"What brings you up here, Alphamon?" Azulongmon questioned, his deep voice rumbled with thunder all around them.

The knight met the gaze of the mighty dragon, unflinching before his enormity. "Things will be coming to a head soon, we have the Miracle in our possession and plan to put an end to this madness."

"Mmm and yet... I sense, doubt," Azulongmon stated bluntly, "How very unlike you..."

Indeed there was little he could hide from the wise old Dragon. "Things have not gone exactly to plan, and it may be appropriate to say we are equally close to damnation as we are salvation."

"Then speak your doubts," Azulongmon requested, "Let the open air clear your thoughts."

The mighty knight had to stifle a chuckle, the absurdity of needing such reassurance for one as power as himself. "I find myself questioning at every turn now if we have taken the correct course of action, we are closer to our Goal than ever before but have alienated both current and potential allies." Pausing to shake his head, "Gallantmon was certainly right about one thing, Omnimon was a far better leader than myself, when I watched the knights from afar it seemed he never had such troublesome thoughts."

"All leaders doubt themselves," Azulongmon assured, "But you must ask yourself why you harbor these doubts... What is it you fear more than anything else?"

Alphamon closed his eyes in thought for a moment, "I fear Failure, because I know that should we fail it would mean the end of everything... These digimon that have put their trust in my guidance, the Spheres that still remain, all of them would perish... I fear failure for the sake of those I must protect, and the whole of the Digital World."

Azulongmon nodded his head slowly, "And have you considered the possibility that Megidramon is meant to be the end of all things?" He questioned, "If the power of a Miracle is truly our only hope for survival... Maybe this was to be our Fate, and the events leading to this moment were not mere accidents... But destiny?"

His hands clenched into fists, opening his eyes. "Perhaps Megidramon is meant to bring about an ending to... All of this, and we are merely raging against the inevitable," Before he shook his head. "But I cannot accept defeat, not until I'm certain I've done everything in my power to change this terrible Fate, even if I must do it alone."

Azulongmon held his gaze for a moment, before seeming to shift the subject. "You know Alphamon, I did not agree to be put under the protection of your Alliance because I feared Megidramon, or death..."

Alphamon quirked an eyebrow at that, "Then... Why did you?"

The wise old dragon simply chuckled in response, a noise that sent ripples through the stormy clouds. "Call it a hunch... But I feel I am exactly where I need to be."

"Mm... Indeed," Cryptic as ever. "Oh, one more thing..." Alphamon figured he'd address the other thing nagging at his mind. "You and the other Great Dragons were among the first to provide structure to the Digital World, what do you know about Megidramon's behavior... Before he was sealed away?"

Azulongmon tilted his head slightly at that, "An interesting question... In truth, none of us had the honor of being partnered with the original Chosen, nor were we Guardian's like yourself." He explained, "The other Chosen were lost in the battle with the first Great Evil, of that battle at that time when the Digital World was in it's infancy... Megidramon was the only survivor, his partner consumed through the bond, and the great dragon turned mad with grief."

Alphamon nodded, "So no one alive would know anything about him at that time... Unfortunate."

"Not the answer you were looking for, I take it?" The great dragon questioned.

"I was hoping for some insight into his behavior," Alphamon admitted, "But it seems that insight is beyond us now..."

"Perhaps... Perhaps not," Drawing Alphamon's eyes back to him. "I too have harbored doubts about the history of the First Crisis, and what exactly Megidramon was thinking before we sealed him away... As it is said, History is Written by the victor..." Before Azulongmon shifted, his gaze moving past Alphamon. "Return should you need my aid, as always I will be watching." He assured, receding back into the clouds above.

As he departed, Alphamon turned to see what have caused him to leave. Only to stop as he saw the form of his former Partner standing there, "Gennai." Instantly suspicious of the old man.

The tiny old man waved at him, "Hello, doing a bit of Digi-Soul Searching I see?"

Alphamon waved him off, "I required insight and have acquired it, why are you here?" Heading for the lift at the far side of the precipice.

"I sensed my friend was in distress," He shrugged, walking along with him as they made their way back to the lift to leave this platform. "We may not fight together anymore, but you are still my partner after all..."

Alphamon came to a stop on the lift, "Oh really? You mean aren't here to try and convince me again to let Samantha go free? Or to seek the aid of the Chosen?"

Gennai laughed lightly, "Well if you're already considering it-"

"Gennai..."

"Ahem, right..." The old man nervously cleared his throat, as the lift began to descend beneath them. "No, I am well aware that nothing I say now can change what comes next." He admitted, hands behind his back as he stared out towards the edge of the bastion, "And nothing you do will change it either..."

"..." Alphamon tensed up a bit, narrowing his eyes down at him. "And what is that supposed to mean?"

As if on cue, in the distance beyond the Bastion's walls, the Primary Egress roared to life. It was hard to tell exactly what was coming through from this distance, but Alphamon could make out two figures stepping out of the swirling gateway.

Gennai chuckled lightly, "Only that you cannot underestimate human spirit... Especially teenagers," He added, twiddling his mustache, "They're damn stubborn..."

. . .

Cody

. . .

The mighty walls and castle that made of the Bastion were stretched out before them, as Cody and Gokuwmon stood on the platform just outside the Egress. The young punk let out a low whistle as he took in the sights, "Damn, nice place they got here."

"About as pretentious looking as I'd expect from these jerks." Gokuwmon grunted, gripping his staff.

"You read my mind." He smirked, watching as many PawnChessmon both black and white were swarming atop the ramparts above the main gate. "You think they know we can fly?"

Gokuwmon grinned, "Let's surprise them!" The clouds emerged beneath their feet, and in an instant the duo were flown high up into the air, "Knock Knock!" The monkey warrior cried out as they went straight over the wall! The courtyard below was filled with more PawnChessmon scrambling to the defenses.

"Dynamic Entrance!" Cody was the first to jump from his cloud, body surrounded by the Silver Barrier provided by his Crest. He threw himself right into a group of them, tackling the smaller digimon to the ground, "Stay down and I won't beat your asses!" He barked at them, jumping back to his feet just as a spear from another of the PawnChessmon attempted to stab at him, but it was stopped dead by his shield, Cody feeling nothing more than a light poke. "Alright you asked for it!" Turning and swinging his fist at full power, he slammed it right into the helm of the Digimon, sending him flying!

His Crest provided him with a shield, the strength of which was dictated by his own Resolve, the virtue for which he'd been chosen. And in this moment, it had never been stronger!

Likewise, Gokuwmon was empowered by their united drive to rescue their friend! Twirling his staff around and swatting away the PawnChessmon by the dozen, "Alright we made an entrance now where too from here!?"

"We can't stay here," Cody said while pulling out Sam's Digivice, looking at the screen. "No sign of the others signals yet... But Sam isn't far!" Jumping back up onto his own cloud, "Come on!"

"Right!"

The duo took flight once more before they could be bogged down, racing further into the bastion while alarms sounded and Digimon swarmed beneath them. Wayward arrows were shot in their direction, but were either evaded or knocked aside as they raced towards the tower at the center.

"She's somewhere up there!" Cody called out. "Let's storm the keep!"

. . .

Samantha

. . .

Confined to her room since her talk with Alphamon, Sam didn't understand what was happening when the alarms sounded. She found herself racing to the balcony to try and get a glimpse of what might have caused this.

"What's happening?" She asked aloud, eyes searching for any sign of- "No..." Spotting the forms of Cody and Gokuwmon racing atop clouds rapidly towards the tower. Where all the strongest Digimon of the Bastion resided, with an army of more swarming behind them. Perhaps most terrifying of all, was that they were alone... Had the others not chosen to come? Had they accepted her fate as well? Her hands gripped the railing tightly, "Cody you DUMBASS!" She screamed in a mixture of anger and fear.

"Why!? Why couldn't he just listen!? Why couldn't he just stay back with the others and let me d-"

Her thoughts were interrupted however, as several shapes flew down from below at blinding speed. Blurs that came to a halt on the platform just beneath her room. Alphamon, Gallantmon, and Magnamon touching down to block Gokuwmon and Cody's path from reaching her at all costs.

"No!" Sam cried out, "Don't hurt them!" She cried from the balcony.

Alphamon narrowed his eyes sharply, "I will not let you be taken away Samantha, and this one is clearly too stubborn to listen the reason."

Magnamon's body began to glow. "Allow me," He suggested, stepping forward. "I could use the exercise."

Alphamon nodded, "Go on, and make it fast, we have wasted enough time with these children."

Magnamon took off with a burst of golden light, racing towards the oncoming duo at high speed! Gokuwmon saw their foe approaching, "Incoming!" Bracing himself, "Get to the tower!" He called, arms sparking to life with lightning.

Cody nodded, "Good luck!"

The two digimon collided at full speed, an explosion of Golden Light mixed with electricity erupted from between them as both warriors were thrown back. Gokuwmon blown off his cloud landed on a rooftop, sliding to a halt while Magnamon lowered himself so they were at eye level.

"You were a fool to come here!" The Golden Knight reminded.

"And you're a fool to get in my way!" The Monkey Warrior barked back, his staff roaring to life with electricity. "We're taking Sam back!"

"You still don't get it," Magnamon scoffed, "She has no need for you anymore! She has chosen this path alone!" He declared harshly, "All she wants is to die so that the world might be better off..."

"I do not believe that!" Gokuwmon spat back, slamming the rooftop with his staff and causing an explosion of dust. "I will not believe that!" Before he charged from the smoke, body splitting into a dozen shadow clones as they swarmed Magnamon!

The golden knight narrowed his eyes, "This trick again? Fine!" Body burning to life as they closed in around him, "EXTREME JIHAD!" Releasing a brilliant burst of light, burning away each and every clone within range in an instant! "Hmph, not too bright are you..." Even the original seemed to have been- "Wait-" No core, no data, were all of those clones!?

"Raikou HOU!" It came from above, Gokuwmon having used the dust cloud as cover to circle around. His staff slammed down onto Magnamon from above, a bolt of Lightning falling with the weapon to punctuate it's impact, hitting with force enough to send Magnamon smashing into the building below and level it completely!

Meanwhile, Cody was nearing his target, seeing the remaining Knights standing in his way. "Alright you high and mighty assholes!" He called out, picking up speed on his cloud. "Time to move or be moved!"

Gallantmon blinked, "He can't be serious, right?"

Alphamon sighed and shook his head, "Unfortunately he is." Raising one hand, "I'll end this quickly." His palm glowing, he fired a hail of green energy bolts! Cody managed to weave between a few before one finally hit him in the center of the chest! Knocking him clean off his cloud that was promptly destroyed as well!

"CODY!" Samantha cried out in horror, watching him fall to the harsh stone platform before the spire, hitting the ground and rolling to a stop.

SlashAngemon touched down from above beside the knights, "The Chosen again? Is the demon here?"

Marsmon landed as well, arms crossed as he scoffed, "No, it is just the loud one..."

But the young man still began to rise, his chest a little singed from the blast but his shield had managed to take the brunt of it. "Is that all you've got Alphamon?" He demanded, glaring daggers at the obsidian knight. "You're gonna be Betamon when I'm done with you, asshole!"

Gallantmon blinked, "What?"

"Certainly a spirited one isn't he?" Alphamon observed.

"You have no idea..." Marsmon answered, eyes flicking to the ruins Magnamon had been buried in, as Gokuwmon raced to the platform to join his partner. "Seems they intend to drag this out."

"We aren't leaving without Sam!" Gokuwmon declared.

"Out of the question," Alphamon replied simply, "She is our only hope of stopping Megidramon, and she has made her decision."

"Bullshit!" Cody shouted back at him, "All you've done is strongarm her into thinking this is the only option! You used the threat of hurting us to make her go along with whatever you wanted!" He accused, jabbing a finger at Alphamon. "You might act all noble and pretend to regret your actions but you're just a damn coward!" Clenching his teeth as he was starting to sweat, "Come on guys, where are you!?"

There was a burst of dust as Magnamon emerged from the rubble behind them, flying closer as he hovered in the air. "You understand nothing!" He slashed a hand through the air, as rank upon rank of PawnChessmon finally caught up and surrounded the platform Cody and Gokuwmon stood upon, supported by KnightChessmon and RookChessmon as well! "Her power is good for one thing, preventing the worlds from being destroyed!" He exclaimed, "Even Samantha realizes now that the whole of the Digital World is better off with her DEAD!"

"Cody please!" She finally called out to him, "Look at yourself... Is this really worth it?" She questioned, "Magnamon is... He's right!" She shouted, despite the pain in her chest. "It's better for everyone if I die to stop Megidramon!"

"Well I don't give a damn!" Cody barked back at her, "You're our friend, and whether you believe it or not you're Chosen like us!" He declared, "So stop trying to leave us out of this!" Pulling out her Digivice, gripping it firmly. "We're all waiting for you!"

"Tch," Magnamon scoffed, "Bold words from a man who stands alone." He pointed out, "Tell me, where are these friends who think the same way as you? Where are the ones you claim want to see her return?" But never gave him time to answer, "They're not coming, because they too understand she isn't worth saving!"

But in that moment, Cody felt a buzzing coming from his own device. He tensed up as his eyes darted to the screen, noting a handful of familiar signals rapidly approaching! The device itself started to beep, pinging the same way it would when a Breach occurred in the real world! The air around the platform began to ripple, and not just one but multiple doorways began to open!

The first to step out of the gateway behind Cody was Madison, alongside BelleStarmon and the sagely Wisemon! He was supporting her as her Crest glowed brightly. "I-I hope we're not too late..." Maddie said, clearly straining as more Gateways opened!

The enormous forms of Triceramon and Monochromon appeared, each of them carrying multiple Goblinmon on their backs while a number of Ogremon backed them up. Of course, Kinkakumon was in the lead, wielding her club with a toothy grin. "Now this looks like a real fight!"

Next came Gaioumon, alongside his partner, "No, I'd say we're right on time." Kai added with a smirk.

But they were not alone. Through the doorways near them stepped Knightmon, Gladimon and Gargomon from the village! Along with many of the Karatenmon, Vajramon and the twin Hisaryumon! "It would appear they have us surrounded." Knightmon observed.

But Kinakumon just laughed, "Yeah, these poor bastards!"

Another doorway opened outside the plaza, behind Magnamon a massive Gateway formed as the others closed. And through it stepped the enormous form of Machinedramon, Thomas was seated firmly atop his head, "I don't have a cool one-liner," He said casually, "I'm just here to blow stuff up with my giant robot!"

"As are WE!" Cried Datamon, as he emerged through the gateway by Machinedramon's feet, followed by full battalions of Guardromon and Tankmon!

And finally, in the sky above them, the last doorway opened. And out of it emerged an enormous metal winged Digimon, Jazarichmon had seemed to have gotten some kind of upgrade, as he now hovered in the air as an even mightier metal wyvern, Metallicdramon! And on his back stood none other than Angela, along LovelyAngemon herself!

"I'm only going to say this once," The older woman spoke up, voice amplified through speakers on Metallicdramon. "GIVE ME BACK MY DAUGHTER!"

"Hahaha! HELL YEAH!" Cody fist pumped, "I never doubted you guys for a second!"

Alphamon had watched in stunned silence as this army of Digimon from a lower sphere materialized before him in seconds.

"Orders?" Gallantmon asked, noting his shock. "They're waiting for you..."

But Cody spoke up before he could get a word out, "We're all here for you Sam! You can choose to accept this bullshit Fate, but that won't stop us from doing everything in our power to change that Fate ourselves! Miracle or not!" He exclaimed, hoping to reach her at last, to give her a reason to fight back.

She seemed to hesitate, in the face of this overwhelming support and unbreakable will of her friends. "I-I... I don't-" Unable to find the words, her hands absentmindedly grabbing Cody's Digivice.

"I just want to hear you answer my question!" Cody called out, one last time. "Forget about us, forget about Megidramon, forget about Miracles and all of that garbage!" He ordered, holding up her Digivice one final time. "Just tell me what you want!"

"I... I-" Her eyes clenched tight, fighting the tears welling up, with everyone watching her. Magnamon's eyes in particular narrowing sharply, as he awaited her answer. "Is this really okay? The fate of the world might depend on me... B-But... For just a moment, can I be this selfish?" She asked herself, clenching the device tightly in her hand. "No! I... I won't doubt them anymore! I choose to believe in them!" Her eyes shooting open as tears ran down her face, "I WANT TO FIGHT!" She cried out, voice ringing over the bastion, "I WANT TO GO ON ADVENTURES WITH YOU ALL AGAIN!" Fighting the urge to sob as she screamed through the tears, "AND I WANT TO SAVE THE DIGITAL WORLD TOGETHER!"

The digivice in her hand, roared to life! An explosive surge of power erupting from within, as Gokuwmon's body was lit up as well! The warrior Digimon feeling it in his chest, his power rising, "Hnnngh! Well it's about damn time!"

Digivolution

"GOKUWMON DIGIVOLVE TO!"

(Shamanmon Mega Theme - "Hero - Kibou no Uta" By FLOW))

The light was blinding, surging around him at the center of the courtyard, as the monkey warrior disappeared and a new warrior formed in his place. Humanoid in shape still, but losing his simian features. Now he appeared more human, wearing tight black armor with some silver plates, a pair of brutal looking steel knuckles while a long white coat was draped over his shoulders. Fiery red hair waved on his head, with a metal visor of his eyes.

He appeared in a burst of white and gold flames, with a big grin on his face. "Gankoomon!"

Alphamon's eyes widened in shock, as did the other Knights in attendance. "Impossible..."

"Gankoomon," Gallantmon added, "He... He lives again."

Marsmon clicked his tongue, "You know, if I had a DigiDollar for every time one of these brats achieved their mega form in front of me, I'd have two... Which is not a lot, but it's infuriating that it's happened twice!" Before launching himself at them without warning, "You'll fall just like the other one!" His fist roaring to life with red flames.

"Marsmon STOP!" Alphamon called out but to no effect.

"Incoming!" Madison called out.

"BRING IT ON!" Kinkakumon roared.

However, the newly reborn Royal Knight Gankoomon made the first move rather than playing defense. Stepping off the air itself he lunged at Marsmon, catching his fist with an open palm, "You've got your own debt to pay." He said, pulling back his other hand as it roared to life with golden flames, curling it into a fist.

Marsmon grit his teeth and pulled back his own free fist, "You weren't fit to stand before me last time, and I promise you nothing has changed!" He declared, throwing his punch forward. "ENDLESS SURGE!

Gankoomon did the same, "Burning STRIKE!"

They struck one another across the jaws with burning heated blows, but while Marsmon was left cringing, Gankoomon appeared unharmed! "Hmph, you've got a good poker face!"

"No," Gankoomon grinned, "You've just got weak punches!" Before kicking off the air and flying high into the sky.

Marsmon followed behind him, shooting flaming fists after the warrior. "You will not MOCK ME!" He roared furiously.

But Gankoomon effortlessly evaded or completely knocked away the oncoming fire balls. "It's time you pay for what you did to Vorvomon!"

Marsmon swung a wild haymaker as he closed the distance, "I don't even know who that is!"

Gankoomon dodged with a graceful bow beneath the strike, moving at high speed to curve around and drive a knee into Marsmon's back. "Good! I'd rather you keep his name out of your mouth!" Before spinning and delivering a brutal kick to send Marsmon soaring higher. Chasing after him, Gankoomon's gauntlets were super charged with energy. "I'm ending this!" Catching up to him, bringing both hands together only to spike Marsmon in the head with a devastating crowning.

"I-Impossible!" The Olympian thought, racing back towards the ground. "Has the gap between us really grown so wide!?"

Gankoomon was already waiting for him with his superior speed, "Watch closely Alphamon!" He called out, cocking back one fist, the flames surrounding it burning hotter until they went from golden to a sharp white color. "IRON FISTED ONSLAUGHT!" Catching Marsmon right in the gut as he fell. The force, as Gankoomon leaned into it, was enough to send the God of War soaring at high speed into the tower, smashing into the structure hard enough to cause the entire spire to shake as cracks spread throughout the framework high above Sam's position.

Alphamon was in awe but not entirely surprised by the outcome of their test of strength. "He's not just wearing his face, but carries his power as well... Maybe more." His eyes darting back to Gankoomon, "You carry the spirit of a fallen Knight, you should stand with us in this endeavor!" He declared, "Fealty demands you act to preserve the Digital World!"

"Oh don't worry," Gankoomon grinned, "I'm going to save the Digital World, I just won't sacrifice my friend to do it." He assured, "So you can either get on board or get out of the way, last time I'm going to ask nicely."

Alphamon clenched his hands into fists, "Well if there is one thing that didn't change in your new life, it is that overconfidence!" Slashing a hand through the air, patience at its limit. "Enough of these games, Chessmon! Knights! Drive these invaders from our Bastion!"

With a roaring upheaval the final battle for Sam's fate had truly begun...