Author's notes: Sorry for taking so long with this chapter. It's been a
hectic few weeks for me. Did I say weeks? I mean months.
Author's notes: To the people who recognised Mazinger Z's attacks: Congratulations! Mazinger was the first anime I ever remember watching and indirectly led me to Gundam and Digimon. Majin...GO!
Digimon Levels:
Child: Rookie Adult: Champion Perfect: Ultimate Ultimate: Mega
Author's notes: ********* means a scene change.
Digimon Tamers: Dark Wing
Roar! Chimeramon!
Disclaimer: Digimon Tamers and related elements are registered trademarks of Toei, Bandai and their respective owners and are used without permission.
"Who are you?" Demon demanded.
Dukemon rose to his feet, raising his lance and pointing at the Dark Digimon leader. "I, Dukemon, will defeat you!"
"Insolent brat!" Skull Satamon roared. "How dare you!" He charged at Dukemon, the orb at the end of his staff glowing. "Nail Bone!" A group of Tankmon followed him, firing their machinegun arms at Dukemon.
The Holy Knight Digimon moved with surprising speed, leaping up into the air, his crimson cloak billowing behind him. "Royal Slash!" He swung his lance, a crimson wave slicing through the air.
"!" Skull Satamon leaned back, pulling himself up and barely avoiding the attack. The Tankmons following him were not so lucky and were sliced in half. "Wh...what in the world?" Skull Satamon glared at the silver-armoured Ultimate, the yellow flames that represented his eyes flaring up in the empty eye sockets of his skull. "This speed! That power!"
"Hn," Dukemon smirked. "This is what the combination of a Tamer and his Digimon can do." He hefted his lance over his shoulder, the picture of self- confidence. "Right, Takato?"
Inside the Holy Knight, floating in an orb of yellow energy circled by data, Takato smiled, as always amused at the amount of confidence his partner had in his Ultimate form. "You bet, Guilmon." The boy clenched his fist. "Okay, let's go!"
"Right!" Dukemon shifted into a battle pose and pointed at Demon. "Come on!"
"..." Ken and Daisuke could feel sweatdrops inching down their faces as they watched Dukemon badmouth the Dark Digimon from a nearby building. "Uh, Lee-kun," Ken said to the younger boy. "Is he always like that?"
Lee laughed nervously. "Ah hahahaha..."
Terriermon leapt off his Tamer's shoulder. "Let's go, Jen!" The little white Digimon hopped impatiently. "We're gonna get left behind!"
"Okay, okay," Lee said, holding up his green D-Ark. "Matrix Evolution!" There was a brilliant flash of green light and when it faded, Saint Galgomon stood beside the building.
Lee could feel the grin in Terriermon's voice as he quipped, "This is where you're supposed to yell 'Saint Galgomon! Go!'"
"You're not exactly a super robot, Terriermon."
"Aw, you're no fun," his partner sulked as he extended his ears into wings and activated the boosters in his back.
"Ken-kun, Daisuke-kun, be careful, okay?" Lee called out.
"Heh." Daisuke grinned. "Let's show them what we can do, V-mon!"
"Okay, Daisuke!" The little blue Digimon picked Wormmon up. "Ready, Wormmon?"
The green caterpillar nodded. "Ready whenever you are, Onii-chan!"
Ken held up his D-3. "Be careful, you two!"
"Go!" Daisuke punched the air in the direction of the Dark Digimon.
V-mon took a running jump off the building. "V-mon, evolve!" A blue light engulfed the red-eyed dragon as he fell.
"Wormmon, evolve!" Wormmon began glowing a greenish light as he dropped with V-mon.
XV-mon's body grew larger and more muscular, his head enlongating and becoming more dragon-like. Razor-sharp fangs lined his mouth and two grey symbols formed an X on his chest. Grey wings sprouted out of his back as a single blade-like horn grew out of his snout. Two spikes grew out of his knuckles and his tail became longer and more powerful. "XV-mon!"
Meanwhile, a powerfully built humanoid body replaced Wormmon's insect form, covered in green and black armour. A yellow symbol resembling the one on V-mon's head appeared, though this one seemed more like a 'Y'. The feelers atop his head grew longer and a shock of reddish hair was visible underneath his helmet-like head. Two huge claws tipped his feet while his arms ended in five. Four dragonfly wings appeared on his back as two red bug eyes appeared in the helmet. "Stingmon!"
"Jogress Evolve!" The two of them flew higher, their bodies glowing again. Like twin comets, they gave off a brilliant light as they streaked across the sky, finally merging into one. "Paildramon!"
The Jogressed Digimon hovered in mid-air for a split-second before flying even higher. "Ultimate Evolve!" The blue and green Perfect vanished in an explosion of light, replaced by a huge shadow that dived down at where Dukemon stared down the Dark Digimon army. Huge crimson wings carried it through the air, while black armour covered most of its body. A long tail swished in the air and a cannon-like pod lay on its back. Three golden claws tipped its front and back legs, and two huge blades, also gold, made up past of its armoured forelegs. Two more blades, these pointing backwards, protected the Digimon's back legs. Finally, an awesome, fearsome head lined with fangs and covered in red and white armour that lined its yellow eyes drew attention to it as it roared. "ImperialDramon!"
"Okay!" Daisuke yelled, clenching his fist and pumping it into the air. "Go get 'em, ImperialDramon!"
Ken bit his thumb worriedly. "Just remember to stick to the plan, Daisuke- kun."
"Don't worry, Ichijouji," the goggle boy said, clapping the other boy on the back. "Between all of us, there's no way Demon's going to win!"
"I hope you're right." The former Kaizer turned to the city, where Dukemon was joined by ImperialDramon. "Because if we lose, this world is finished."
*****************
"And your's will be next, Kaizer," Devimon mused as he spied on the two Chosen Children through his Black Gears. The Dark Messenger snorted as he watched the Tamers and Chosen Children split into their groups. "Hn." His face twisted into a smile as he spoke over his shoulder. "Nanomon, report!"
"Know your place, Devimon!" Nanomon hissed. "I'm a Perfect! Don't presume to command me!"
Devimon sighed and suddenly appeared before the wire-armed cyborg, surprising him. The Dark Messenger wasted no words, grabbing Nanomon and holding him up, his claws digging into the bulb that protected his brain. "Do not speak to me in that tone again." His grip tightened, cracks appearing along Nanomon's head. "Or Perfect or not, you will join Vamdemon within me." His eyes narrowed dangerously. "Do you understand?"
"Y-yes..." The Perfect was afraid, as much as he hated to admit it. His sensors in his head could sense an immense power coursing through the Adult. Power that could rival even Demon himself. As he was dropped, the cyborg decided it was in his best interest to stay out of Devimon's way.
*****************
"Here we are!" Hirokazu hopped off Guardromon's shoulder as the Adult landed. Kenta and MarineAngemon rode on him as well while Hikari and Miyako rode Nefertimon and Holsmon.
"So what do we do now?" Kenta asked. The green-haired boy looked around.
"I guess we wait for Ryo-san and his team to make their move," Hikari told him as Nefertimon devolved into Tailmon. "That would be the best time to surprise them."
"Exactly, Hikari-chan." Yamaki's voice came over the headphones each of them was wearing. "Takato-kun, Ken-kun and Daisuke-kun have engaged the enemy and are pulling back according to plan."
"What about Takeru-kun and Iori?" The brunette asked.
"Almost in position." Yamaki's voice crackled for a moment. "They're having trouble since the enemy force is bigger than we thought, so they're taking a longer route. They should be there in time, though."
Hikari nodded as Yamaki signed off. "Yamaki-san said Takeru-kun and the others will be ready soon."
"That's good to hear," Tailmon said, her Holy Ring glittering as her tail swished in the air.
"Yeah," Miyako said. "I just want to get those guys out of our hair and go home!"
"Patience, Miyako-san," Hawkmon chasted her. "We have to be careful. Remember the last time we fought the Demon Corps?"
"I know, I know," the purple-haired girl grumbled.
"Keep your eyes open, Guardromon," Hirokazu instructed his partner. "We don't want anyone sneaking up on us."
*****************
"Devimon!" Nanomon turned, his mismatched eyes glowing. "Intruders!"
Devimon glanced at the screen the Perfect was gesturing at. "I see." Hirokazu, Hikari and the others were visible onscreen. "Since most of the others are in the field, you will have to deal with them, Nanomon."
"What? Why me?"
"Because you have more chance surviving them than you have surviving me."
"!" The mechanical Perfect headed for the door without another word.
"And Nanomon!" Nanomon turned just in time to catch something Devimon threw at him. "Next time, try hiding your bombs more carefully."
'How could he find my boobytraps?' the cyborg wondered.
"It was simple," Devimon cut into his thoughts.
"W-what?" The Perfect was shocked. "How can you read my mind?"
"It's not so much reading your mind as it is controlling it." Devimon smiled evilly as he touched his head with a clawed finger.
"Controlling...?" Nanomon brought a tri-fingered hand up to his head and felt a circular object attached to the dome that protected his brain. "A Black Gear?!"
"Hn." The Dark Messenger smirked. "Just a precaution to ensure everything goes smoothly. Now go."
Nanomon began moving towards the door agianst his will. "Curse you, Devimon! I'll see you dead for this!"
"Assuming you survive, of course." The Adult waved towards the door. "Now off with you. Return victorious, or not at all!"
"Devimooooon!"
*****************
"Flame Inferno!" A wall of flames blazed through the air, burning everything in its path.
Dukemon leapt out of the way, aiming his lance at Demon. "Royal Saber!" A crimson beam shot out of the weapon and struck the Demon Lord, who managed to deflect the attack with a massive wing.
"Mugen Cannon!" MugenDramon fired at the Holy Knight, who kicked off the ground as the blasts tore the street apart.
As Dukemon landed, Pinnochimon suddenly appeared in front of him. "Bullet Hammer!"
"Ufff!" The Puppet Digimon swung his hammer, smashing the silver Digimon and hurling him through the air.
Pinnochimon reached behind him, his hand closing around the wooden cross on his back. "Flying Cross Cutter!" He threw the cross, sending in spinning at Dukemon as he fell.
"Positron Laser!"
The cross fell to the ground in pieces as Dukemon righted himself in mid- air, landing nimbly. "?"
ImperialDramon, who'd been simultaneously fighting Lady Devimon, SkullSatamon and MetalSeaDramon, pulled away. "You okay?" the Ultimate asked as he landed beside the knight.
"Yeah," Takato replied. "Thanks."
"We'd better start getting back to the others," Dukemon said, taking a step back and raising his lance and shield.
"That's right," Ken's voice agreed. Takato blinked, then remembered he had been wearing a headset when he Matrix Evolved with Guilmon. "I can see the bulk of Demon's forces heading in your direction. They're trying to cut you off!"
"Get out of there!" Daisuke yelled.
"Get on!" ImperialDramon urged. Dukemon nodded and leapt onto the Ancient Dragon Digimon's back, straddling the cannon pod and making him look like a knight with a ferocious dragon for a steed. "Let's go!"
"Okay!" Dukemon aimed his lance forward as ImperialDramon flew at the Digimons before them. "Royal Saber!"
Piemon and his forces scattered as Dukemon and ImperialDramon tore through their ranks and headed for the Hypnos Towers. "They're getting away! After them!"
"Wait." Demon glared at the apparently fleeing Digimon. "MugenDramon. Take your forces and circle around their right. Locate and destroy any enemies who stand in your way." The Dark Digimon leader shifted as he spoke again. "MetalEtemon. Go around to the left."
"You suspect a trap?" MugenDramon asked.
Demon nodded. "Why do only two of them attack?" he mused. "Even if they Jogress, there should be more of them."
MetalSeaDramon understood. "So those two are just bait to lure us into an ambush."
"Precisely." Demon turned to his Demon Corps. "Skull Satamon. Marine Devimon. Lady Devimon. I want you to take your forces and destroy that building." He indicated the Hypnos Towers. "Leave not even a scorched stone standing!"
"Yes, Demon-sama!" The three Perfects bowed and rallied their forces.
"The rest of you, follow me!" Demon spread his massive wings and flew off in the direction Dukemon and ImperialDramon had flown in, the rest of his army following him.
*****************
"The enemy have split up," Megumi reported. Various statistics were reflected in the visor she wore. "I count three columns separating from the main group!"
"Just as we thought," Yamaki acknowledged. "Now we have to hope Lee-kun and Ryo-kun's teams can defeat those units."
"Sir," Reika called. "Hirokazu-kun's unit is in position!"
"Good. Tell them to stand by."
"Understood."
Yamaki spoke into an intercom. "Is the Shaggai ready?"
"Almost," Janyuu's voice replied. "We're putting on the finishing touches now."
"Good. As soon as you're ready, let me know." Yamaki took out a handkerchief and wiped his sweat-soaked brow. "After this, I'm going to need a vacation..."
Reika smiled sympathetically from underneath her visor.
*****************
"How long are we supposed to wait?" Hirokazu grumbled.
Miyako nodded in agreement. "Yeah. All this waiting is driving me nuts!"
Hawkmon sighed as he perched on Guardromon's shoulder. "Your partner isn't very patient, is he?"
"No more than yours," the Adult commented.
The red, bird-like Digimon chuckled. "Point taken. Ever notice how Digimon like us always seem to get the hotheaded ones?"
The other Digimon shrugged. "Karma?"
"Maybe."
"That's not very nice," Tailmon scolded. "Digimons are supposed to reflect the partner!"
"We're just joking," Hawkmon protested.
Guardromon looked confused. "We are?"
Meanwhile, Hikari and Miyako were speaking to Hirokazu and Kenta, Miyako holding MarineAngemon. "I hope Daisuke-kun and the others are okay," Hikari said, rubbing her arms nervously. The sounds of battle floated over to the waiting team, putting them on edge.
"We shouldn't worry," Hirokazu assured her. "Takato, Ryo-san and the others won't let anything happen."
Miyako nodded in agreement as she scratched MarineAngemon's head, making the little Digimon purr contentedly. "He's right, Hikari." The purple- haired girl tossed her head. "Worrying won't do anything. We just have to have faith, right?"
"!" MarineAngemon suddenly straightened and hovered out of Miyako's hands. "Pupiipi!"
"What what?" Miyako was surprised by the Digimon's sudden outburst and turned to Kenta. "What's he saying?"
"Duck!" The boy tackled the older girl, the momentum knocking them both to the ground just as something landed a few feet away and exploded.
"Aaah!" Hikari was thrown off her feet, as was Hirokazu. The two of them rose to their feet, stunned.
"Hikari!" "Hirokazu!" "Miyako-san!" The three Digimon were instantly at their partners' sides, ready to counter whatever had attacked them.
"Fall!" Nanomon appeared down the street, his wire arms waving menacingly. "Plug Bomb!" He hurled dozens of small but powerful bombs at them, trying to engulf them in a sea of flame.
"Scatter!" Tailmon quickly took charge, barking orders at the other Digimon. Guardromon grabbed Hirokazu and Hikari, airlifting them out of harms way.
"Pupipupi!" MarineAngemon opened his mouth, releasing a bubble that covered him and the two humans, lifting them up after Guardromon.
"Miyako-san!" Hawkmon called out as he flew up into the air.
"Okay!" The girl held out her D-3. "Digimental Up!"
Hawkmon began whirling in mid-air. "Hawkmon! Armour-evolve!" A leaf-green egg flew at him, bursting open as it did so. A bright green light covered him, restructuring his form from his bird-like form to a more humanoid one. His arms and legs became long and wire-like, ending in what looked like the throwing stars used by the semi-legendary ninjas of old. White body armour protected his body, his head hidden under a ninja helmet, leaving only his yellow eyes visible. A huge throwing star was attached to his back. "Blades of Purity! Shurimon!"
Meanwhile, Guardromon and MarineAngemon set their friends down. "We'll be okay here," Hirokazu told them. "Help the others!"
"Okay," Guardromon nodded. "MarineAngemon, can you stay here just in case?"
"Pupii!" MarineAngemon flew over to the Tamers and Chosen Children, hovering protectively in front of them. "Pipupi!"
"Thanks." The robotic Adult flew at Nanomon, who was already battling Tailmon and Shurimon. "Destruction Grenade!" Tiny missles wearing little police hats launched out of his arms, blowing tiny whistles as they flew at the cyborg.
"Awk!" Nanomon leapt back as the ground beneath him exploded.
"Cat Punch!" Tailmon leapt at him, her gloved paws outstretched. She delivered a flurry of blows at the Perfect, her claws digging grooves into his armour. "Cat Kick!" She dived at him as he swung his arm, kicking off and using the momentum to leap clear of his clumsy counterattack.
Shurimon somersaulted and landed behind him before he could react. His star-shaped hands began spinning like sawblades as he leapt into the air, diving at Nanomon. "Bungee Jump!"
"Plug Flash!" Nanomon's brain emitted a blinding flash of light, making Shurimon yell out in surprise and veer away.
Miyako cried out as her partner fell to his knees, a hand over his eyes. "Shurimon!"
"I'm alright, Miyako-san," the Armoured Digimon assured her, getting up unsteadily. "I just need a few moments..."
"Watch out!" Guardromon warned as he fired again.
One of Nanomon's hands folded back, revealing a small cannon. "Nano Crush!" A purple orb appeared at its opening. "Die!" The two Destruction Grenades Guardromon suddenly froze in mid-air, then seemed to fold into themselves as if crushed by an unseen force.
"Not good!" Hirokazu groaned.
Kenta called to MarineAngemon. "MarineAngemon, do something!"
"Piipupi!" The little pink Ultimate obliged, opening his mouth and blowing small bluish bubbles at the Perfect.
"What's that going to do?" Miyako cried incredulously.
Kenta grinned. "You'd be surprised."
Nanomon didn't hear any of this, his mind raging as the Black Gear controlled his movements. 'Devimon!' he screamed in the prison of his mind. 'Why? Tell me!'
Devimon' voice echoed through his mind via the Black Gear. 'I need someone to keep them busy while I prepare.'
'Prepare? Prepare for what?'
'The dead don't need to know.'
'What are you...'
'You distracted me from the task of keeping you alive. Farewell, Nanomon.'
'Eh?' Nanomon suddenly snapped to attention as Devimon gave up control of him. "Free!" Then he saw the bubbles floating at him. "What is this?" The Perfect swiped at the bubbles, irritated. "Out of my way! I will kill you, Devimon!"
Hirokazu glared at Kenta. "Now what?"
"Wait for it..."
"Eh?" Nanomon suddenly took a step back. "Wh...what?" Bubbles suddenly appeared inside his dome. "Aaaaarghhh!" His mechanical brain began shorting out as he screamed. "You...you...!"
"Now!" Tailmon dashed at him, pulling her paw back. "Cat Punch!"
Guardromon launched his missles, following her lead. "Destruction Grenade!"
Shurimon reached behind him, pulling the huge throwing star off his back. "Kusanagi!"
Tailmon's blow cracked the dome as Nanomon reeled. "Plug Bomb!" The mechanical Perfect flailed at her, hurling a number of his small but powerful explosives at her. As the feline dodged the bombs, Nanomon yelled as Shurimon's Kusanagi sliced him in half. "AaaaahhhK*"
Miyako yelped and looked away as the mechanical Digimon fell apart, breaking up into random bits of data. Hirokazu clenched his fist. "Yes! Got him!" The boy looked to the others. "What do you think?" he asked. "Should we go in?"
Miyako looked at him strangely. "We just killed a Digimon!" she said. "Don't you feel anything?"
Hirokazu cocked his head. "Why? He was trying to kill us! It was either him or us!"
"Still..."
"What's going on over there?" Yamaki interrupted over the headsets. "What's happened?"
"We were ambushed," Hikari reported. "We managed to take care of it, though."
"Good."
Hirokazu spoke into his headset. "It looks like there's no one else here," he said. "We'll go inside."
There was silence as Yamaki weighed the pros and cons of the request. "Alright," came the reply. "But be careful. This may be a trap."
"Got it." Hirokazu nodded to the others. "Let's go."
Hikari shook her head. "I'm not sure about this..." she told him.
"What's wrong, Hikari?" Tailmon asked.
The brunette shook her head again. "I don't know..." she admitted. "I just feel like something bad is going to happen."
****************
"Royal Saber!" Dukemon thrust at a group of Dokugumon, scattering the spider-like Digimons with a crimson energy beam.
ImperialDramon twisted in mid-air as he charged a squad of enemy Digimon. "Splendor Blade!" The golden blades on his forearms swung outwards, slicing at the fliers as they flew by. A Devidramon shrieked and crashed, breaking into data as it hit the ground.
Meanwhile, Ken and Daisuke watched nervously from the nearby park. "This is bad..." Ken said, seeing the two Ultimates cut off from the Hypnos building. "They aren't in position yet..."
"Hey!" Daisuke yelled into his headset. "What do we do now? ImperialDramon and Dukemon can't move!"
*****************
"Damn!" Yamaki cursed as Reika confirmed what Daisuke said. "They moved too fast!"
"What do we do?" Lee asked, his voice anxious as it came over the speakers.
"No choice," Yamaki decided, turning to the monitor which displayed the battlefield. "Lee-kun, take your unit and help Takato and the others!"
"Got it." Lee signed off as Megumi gasped and turned to Yamaki.
"Sir!" she cried, her voice strained with rising panic.
"What is it?"
"Enemy Digimon incoming!"
"What?" The blond man looked up at the monitor. Sure enough a group of red blips were moving in the direction of Hypnos. He gritted his teeth. "Blast! They're dividing their forces too!"
"Well, they aren't stupid," Archnemon commented. "Considering how obvious our plan was."
"Archnemon." Oikawa chided his creation as he entered the room. "Yamaki- san," he said, addressing the Hypnos commander. "We'll head to the roof and protect the Shaggai System."
"Alright," the beleagured blond agreed. "Meanwhile, we'll keep Shuichon and Juri here as backup.
"But..." Shuichon protested.
"Shucihon." After making sure he had his daughter's attention, Janyuu shook his head.
Shuichon sat down, pouting. "It's not fair," she muttered. "Jen-nii-chan's in trouble and they won't let me help him!"
"I know how you feel," Juri told her, kneeling next to the little girl. "I want to be out there helping Takato-kun," she blushed slightly as she spoke, "but it's important for us to be here in case something happens." She smiled reassuringly at the younger Tamer. "Okay?"
"...Okay."
****************
"Giant Bazooka!" As the missiles launched from Saint Galgomon's shoulders, Lee cursed internally. After hearing how ImperialDramon and Dukemon had become surrounded, he and the others had moved to help, only to run into a unit of enemy Digimon head on. Now, Saint Galgomon, Sakuyamon and Shakkoumon were engaged in battle, trying to fight their way to their friends. "Missile Punch!"
"This is getting us nowhere!" Ruki yelled as Sakuyamon somersaulted over a Raremon and launching her fox spirits. "While we're stuck here, Takato and the others..."
"I know!" Saint Galgomon stomped the ground, the shockwave knocking most of the enemy off their feet. "Ruki! Takeru-kun, Iori-kun! Go help the others! We'll handle things here!"
"What?!" Ruki yelled at him. "What, are you acting like Ryo now? There's no way we're leaving you behind!"
"Don't worry!" Saint Galgomon told her. "Jen and I can handle this! Just go help Takato!"
"But..."
"Just go!" Lee yelled as Saint Galgomon used Burst Shot, firing all his weapons at the enemy Digimon. "Please, Ruki! I need you to protect Shuichon for me!"
"..." Ruki growled with irritation. "Fine," she agreed at last. "Be careful!"
Sakuyamon leapt away from the battle and back flipped until she landed between Takeru and Iori. "Hold on," she said, picking them up and tucking them under her arms.
"Whoaaaa!" Takeru yelled as she took a running jump and leapt over a group of Raremon. "What about Shakkoumon?"
"Shakkoumon!" Iori called. "Devolve!"
"Okay!" The statue-like Digimon began glowing as Sakuyamon ran towards him. There was a flash of light, and suddenly Takeru and Iori were holding their partners Patamon and Armidamon in their hands.
"Jen! Give us cover!" Ruki ordered as she ran through the various Dark Digimons in the direction of Takato's group.
"Burst Shot!" Launching another barrage, Saint Galgomon either obliterated or scattered their attackers, clearing a path for the silver-haired warrior.
"Good luck!" Lee called as they left. "Okay, Terriermon," he said after he was sure they were safely out of the way. "Let's do it!"
"Okay, Jen!"
*****************
"..." Unnoticed by neither Tamer nor Chosen Child, MugenDramon's head hovered in the air, observing the battle. He noted Sakuyamon's departure, but his main concern was now Saint Galgomon. "Subject...identified." Various data was called up, lining the edge of his view with information. "Saint Galgomon. Previous encounters: None. No information available."
"Speculation." MugenDramon spoke out loud, giving commands to his built-in computer.
"Saint Galgomon," obliged the computer. "Probable level: Ultimate. Attacks: Burst Shot. Giant Bazooka."
"..." The mechanical dragon's head hovered in place. "I had best remain in position and gather more information."
******************
Hikari shivered as she and the others walked through the deserted temple. Tailmon looked up at her. "What is it, Hikari?"
The brunette looked down at her partner. "It's nothing, Tailmon."
"Shh," Hirokazu warned. "I think we're near the main hall."
The Tamers and Chosen Children moved slowly forward, careful to make as little noise as possible. The air became thicker as they moved forward and the temperature began to drop. "Ah." The team froze as the voice echoed through the chamber. "My guests have arrived." Slowly, Devimon rose from the ground in the middle of the hall, just in front of the Dark Gate. "You might as well show yourselves," he said. "I know you're there."
Tailmon and the others exchanged a glance before the cat-like Digimon spoke. "We might as well. We've got nothing to lose."
"Okay," Hikari agreed. "But be careful, everyone."
"Guardromon," Hirokazu said to his partner. "I'm counting on you if Devimon pulls anything."
"Got it," acknowledged the mechanical Adult. "I've got you covered."
"What are you up to, Devimon?" Hikari demanded as she and the others stepped into the Dark Digimon's view.
"The Chosen Child of Light." Devimon fixed her with a glare she returned with surprising ease. "Hm. Brave." The Fallen Angel curled his lip disdainfully. "If only Vamdemon had succeeded in killing you, this wouldn't have been necessary."
"Well he didn't succeed," Hikari growled back. "Now, why are you doing this?"
"And I suppose that is my cue to launch into a long-winded explanation of my plan." Devimon smiled. "Hmph." The Dark Digimon snapped his fingers. "Kill them."
"Hirokazu!" Guardromon warned. "Incoming!"
"Wh...what?!" Hikari gasped as a group of shadowy figures appeared. "That's..."
As one, Angemon, Kabuterimon, Metal Greymon, Kuwagamon, Monochromon, Garurumon, Skull Greymon and Airdramon moved out of the shadows and attacked, the room soon filling with the sounds of desperate battle.
*****************
"Royal Saber!" Dukemon leapt back as he fired, twisting in mid-air to avoid a Bakemon's Hell Hand attack.
"Chikuso!" Takato cursed, breathing heavily. "They just keep coming!"
"We won't lose, Takato!" Dukemon assured him, thrusting forward with his lance and stabbing a Soulmon, disintegrating the ghost-like Adult.
ImperialDramon was breathing heavily as well. "We won't last much longer like this..." the Jogressed Ultimate growled.
"Humans." Demon spoke, his voice echoing through the air as the gigantic Demon Lord hovered into view. "I am impressed that you held out this long. Surrender and swear loyalty to me, and perhaps I can find you a place in the new world order we, the Dark Digimon, will form."
"Never!" Dukemon yelled. "I, Dukemon, will never surrender! Not as long as my Tamer and I have strength left!" The silver and red Ultimate raised his shield, aiming at Demon as the symbols that lined its edges began glowing. "Final Elysian!" The Digital Hazard symbol on his shield began glowing before firing a beam of pure energy at Demon.
"Hn." The Dark Digimon folded his wings, using them as a shield. "Darkness Distortion!" A purple glow coated his bat-like wings just as the Final Elysian hit.
"Wh-what?" Dukemon took a step back as his attack was dispersed on Demon's shield.
"I offered you a chance to survive," Demon said, unfolding his wings. "Now I offer only death." He nodded to his followers. "Kill them."
"Chikuso..." Takato swore as the Dark Digimons moved in for the kill.
"Wait!" There was a flash of gold, and suddenly a beautiful silver-haired warrior stood behind Demon.
"Hm?" The Dark Digimon leader turned. "Who are you?"
Sakuyamon didn't reply, instead whirling her staff above her head. "Vajra..." A circle of light appeared at her feet. "World..." She held her staff high. "Mandala!"
"Eh?!" Demon's eyes widened as a burst of holy energy suddenly exploded from around her, engulfing the Demon Lord and any of his troops nearby.
"Ruki! Sakuyamon!" Takato breathed with relief. "Am I glad to see you!"
Ruki smirked. "I thought knights were supposed to protect damsels, Takato, not the other way around." Her smile widened. "Or is Juri the only one you protect?"
Takato blushed. "Tha...that's..." He gulped before yelling, "We don't have time for that! Let's go, Guilmon!"
"Okay, Takato!" Dukemon charged, his lance flashing in the air as he stabbed at the now confused Dark Digimons.
"That wasn't nice, Ruki," Renamon's voice echoed in the girl's head.
"I know," she replied. "But I couldn't help it. He's just so easy to bait like that."
"Really." Ruki made out a smirk in her partner's voice. "I wonder how you'd like it if anyone teased you about Ryo-san."
"What?!" Ruki growled as Sakuyamon ran forward to join Dukemon, ImperialDramon and Shakkoumon. "You make it sound like I actually like that idiot!"
*****************
"Hachoo!" Ryo sneezed.
Cyberdramon, BlackWarGreymon and Beelzebumon, who had spent the last hour hidden in a damaged building after Ryo stressed the need for surprise, all turned and glared at him as a voice yelled out, "I hear something!"
"Smooth move," Beelzebumon chided as he drew his guns.
BlackWarGreymon growled as he readied his Dramon Killers. "So much for surprise."
Ryo sniffed. "Sorry," he apologized.
"No time for that," Cyberdramon roared, his hands glowing as Metal Etemon's forces came upon them. "Attack! Erase Claw!"
*****************
"Yamaki! Ryo's group has just engaged the enemy!" Reika reported.
Megumi called out as well. "Ruki-chan's team has arrived at Takato-kun's location!"
"Understood." Yamaki turned to the monitor. "What's the situation with the Digimons coming this way?"
"They've split up into two groups," Reika reported. "Looks like one group has fliers and the other is on its way here on foot."
Yamaki folded his arms thoughtfully. "Archnemon and Mummymon are already on the roof, right?"
"Yes," Janyuu replied. The Wild Bunch member looked worried. "You're not suggesting..."
"We don't have a choice," Yamaki told him. He sighed heavily. "Reika. Tell Juri and Shuichon to get ready for battle."
"You're not serious?!" Reika was aghast.
"We just need them to hold the enemy off until Takato or one of the others can get here." Yamaki thought for a moment. "Or at least until the Shaggai is fully charged."
"It will be ready within the hour," Janyuu assured him. "I am not going to risk losing two of my children."
*****************
"Cat Punch!" Tailmon lashed out, knocking Angemon to the ground. "That felt wrong..." she said to herself.
"Above!" Guardromon launched Destruction Grenades as he yelled out the warning. The missiles exploded on Kabuterimon and Kuwagamon, halting the insect-like Adults in mid-air.
"Hawkmon evolve!" Hawkmon flew upwards as he began evolving, his body growing larger and more aqualine. Two horns grew out of his head and his beak became sharper and more curved. With a beat of his wings, he launched himself into the air. "Aquilamon!"
Hikari called to Tailmon. "Tailmon!"
Simultaneously, Miyako called up to Aquilamon. "Ready, Aquilamon?"
The two Digimons nodded. "Aquilamon!" "Tailmon!" They flew upwards together, transforming into twin balls of light that fused into one. The ball grew larger and more brilliant as Tailmon and Aquilamon's voices echoed, "Jogress Evolve!" With a flash of light, a new Digimon stood before Devimon, a smirk on its face. "Silphymon!"
"Hn." Devimon smiled. "Skull Greymon! Metal Greymon!" The two Perfects loomed up from behind him. "Attack!"
Meanwhile, Marine Angemon kept himself busy shielding the humans from stray attacks. "Hold on, Marine Angemon," Hirokazu said as he reached into the card holder on his belt. "Card Slash! Metal Armour!"
Guardromon's body began glowing a light grey as he ran at Kuwagamon, Kabuterimon, Angemon and Airdramon. "Hirokazu!"
"Okay!" The visored boy held up his D-Ark. "Card Slash! Seed of Speed!"
"Dynamite Tackle!" Guardromon boosted upwards, ramming the flying Digimon and scattering them.
"..." Devimon watched calmly as they fell, then swiveled his head as Silphymon yelled, "Dual Sonic!" and rammed Metal Greymon, knocking him into Skull Greymon. Devimon murmured to himself. "Hn. As I thought, Card Digimon are powerful but mindless." He smiled. "So be it."
Meanwhile, Guardromon noticed he had a clear shot at him. "Destruction Grenade!"
"Hn?" Devimon looked up, just as the missiles exploded in his face.
"Got him!" Hirokazu grinned, clenching his fist.
"No more games." The smoke around Devimon cleared, revealing the Dark Angel still standing. He hadn't even flinched. He raised his hands. "Jogress."
"What?!" Hikari and Miyako gasped in unision.
*****************
"Yamaki!" Megumi called. "We're picking something up from Hikari and Hirokazu's unit!"
"What?" Yamaki turned away from the map display.
"Hold on, I'll patch it through."
"...is Hikari! We might need some help here!"
"What's wrong?" Yamaki asked.
"It's Devimon!" she replied. "He's..." Suddenly, there was a roar and the line went dead, replaced with static.
"Hikari-chan?!" Megumi's fingers flew over her console as she tried to reestablish contact. "I've lost her!"
"Who's closest?" Yamaki asked.
"Ryo's group."
"Tell them to get there and help Hikari's unit."
"Yes, sir."
*****************
"Double Impact!" A blast from Beelzebumon's shotguns blew a Raremon apart, the bullets ripping through the other Digimons as well.
"Dramon Killer!" BlackWarGreymon's attack was no less destructive, scattering or killing anyone who stood in his way.
Cyberdramon brought his fist down on a Devidramon's head with enough force to shatter its skull and delete it. Flying higher, he faced off with two more, eager to avenge their brother. "Erase Claw!"
As the two Devidramons dissolved into data, Ryo was yelling into his headset to be heard over the battle. "What?" he yelled.
"I said, Hikari's team needs help! You have get over to the temple!" Megumi yelled back.
"We're kind of in the middle of something here," Ryo told her. "But we'll do what we can!"
"Go," Beelzebumon told him. "We can handle things here."
"But..."
"Gaia Force!"
Ryo blinked as BlackWarGreymon's attack vaporised a large number of their attackers. Of all the Digimons that had been attacking them, there were now less than 40% left. Cyberdramon landed nearby. "Are we going?" he asked.
"Yeah," Ryo nodded. "Looks like you two can handle things here," he said to Beelzebumon. "Let's go, Cyberdramon!"
The black armoured dragon nodded and picked him up, taking a running jump and flying off in the direction of Devimon's temple. As Beelzebumon began tearing into the remaining enemy, BlackWarGreymon spoke to him. "You'd best go help the others."
"They can handle themselves," Beelzebumon told him. "I should know."
"Perhaps, but there are only a few enemies left here." The dragon man stabbed an Airdramon and slashed another before kicking them both away. "There are four Dark Masters and Demon over there. Let me finish things here."
"Hmph," Beelzebumon grunted as he fired his shotguns. "I think you just want all the fun for yourself." He yelled. "Behemoth!" His motorcycle roared up to him, scattering the few survivors. "I'll leave things to you, then," Beelzebumon called, replacing his guns into their holsters.
"Now then..." BlackWarGreymon said as Beelzebumon rode off. He turned to face MetalEtemon, who stood surrounded by his remaining forces. "You must be their leader."
"I am MetalEtemon-sama," the metallic primate told him.
"Hn. Then you're the one I must kill to end this battle." BlackWarGreymon stretched before raising his arms. "Let's make this quick. I am needed elsewhere." He paused before dropping his Dramon Killers onto the ground. "I will settle this with my fists! Ready?"
MetalEtemon smirked. "Stay back, boys. I'll take this clown." He coiled his legs before launching himself at BlackWarGreymon. "Let's get it on!"
*****************
Meanwhile, Skull Satamon, Lady Devimon and their squad arrived at the Hypnos building. "There it is," the red skeletal Perfect said.
"Let's get to work," Lady Devimon replied. "Go!" Her followers, made up of Flymons, Devidramons and Mekanorimons flew forward.
"Gun Attack!" Mummymon leapt out from behind the Shaggai System, opening fire on the approaching Digimons and shooting them down.
"Mummymon?" Skull Satamon said in surprise. "What are you doing?"
"What does it look like?" Archnemon asked as she stepped into view beside Mummymon. "Did you think we'd just sit back and let you do whatever you want?"
"You..." Lady Devimon snarled. "You dare stand against Demon-sama?"
"We did it once," Archnemon retorted.
Skull Satamon whirled his staff. "Then there is nothing more to say." He dived at Mummymon, screaming, "Die!"
*****************
"Royal Saber!" "Positron Laser!" "Wind Instrument Fox!" "Nigimitama!" Takato's group, now reinforced by Ruki's team, were still fighting when Takato heard about Hikari's unit.
"What do you mean you lost contact with Hikari-chan?!" Daisuke yelled. He made as if to run in the direction of Devimon's temple, but Ken grabbed his arm. "Let me go, Ichijouji!"
"Daisuke, listen!" The black-haired boy shooked his friend. "What can you do? We're needed here!"
"But I've got to help Hikari-chan!"
Yamaki's voice came over their headsets. "Ryo is on his way to help them. Just stick to the plan. Shaggai is almost ready."
Daisuke's face twisted in an expression of frustration. "But I can't just sit here and do nothing!"
"Then how about dying?"
"Watch out!" Takeru yelled as he saw MetalSedramon rised up from the ground, his nose cannon already charging.
"Ultimate Stream!" A blast of yellow energy lit the air as he fired.
Ken and Daisuke yelled and shut their eyes as they realised there was no time to dodge the attack. Before they were incinerated, however, Sakuyamon dropped down out of the sky, landing in front of the two boys. She waved her staff, sending out waves of bluish light that turned MetalSeadramon's Ultimate Stream into a river of flower petals. "Che," Ruki snorted. "We're saving boys left and right today. All we need to do now is save Ryo and this'd be the perfect day!"
"Out of my way, woman!" MetalSedramon roared. "I have no time to waste on a weak female!"
"Weak..." Ruki growled.
"Female?" Sakuyamon finished, her teeth clenched. "Dukemon!" She called to her comrade. "This one is mine!"
"Go right ahead," the knight replied, rolling to dodge Pinnochimon's hammer. "I've got my hands full here!"
"You think you can defeat me? A Dark Master?" MetalSeadramon shook with barely supressed laughter.
Sakuyamon clenched her hands around her staff. "We will show you who is weak."
MetalSeadramon laughed. "Is that so? Come then!" He roared as he dived at her, his jaws wide.
*****************
Meanwhile, ImperialDramon and Shakkoumon found themselves face to face with Demon himself. "You should've stayed in the Dark Ocean," ImperialDramon growled.
Demon snorted. "I warned you I would return." He spread his wings, his hands flaming. "This time, I will not waste time toying with you!" He brought his hands together. "Flame Inferno!"
"Mega Death!"
*****************
Piemon stood apart from the battle, watching as Sakuyamon somersaulted over MetalSeadramon, while Dukemon blocked Pinnochimon's hammer with his shield. The Chosen Children kept a low profile some distance from the battlefield, watching as their Jogressed Partners fought Demon. "Hn. A perfect opportunity to dispose of the Chosen Children." His eyes narrowed as his gaze fell on Takeru. "And especially you." He drew his swords.
The sound of guns being loaded caught his attention and he whirled around, his blades ready. Beelzebumon smirked as he held his twin shotguns up. "Last time we met," the Demon Lord said, "You said you'd kill me. So instead of picking on some kids, how about taking me on?"
Piemon smirked as well. "I would've thought you wouldn't be so eager to die."
"We'll see who does the dying around here," Beelzebumon replied.
******************
Ryo and Cyberdramon flew high above the war-torn city, the boy keeping his eyes open for any enemies and his partner focusing on flying. "We should be almost there," the brunette said.
"..." Cyberdramon remained silent but suddenly stopped in mid-air.
"What is it, Cyberdramon?" Ryo asked from where Cyberdramon carried him in his arms.
"Enemy."
"Where?" Cyberdramon didn't reply, instead flying downwards and landing in the shadow of a damaged building. Moments later, a roar shattered the air and a huge shadow flew past. "What was that?" Ryo wondered. Then he shook his head. "No time to worry about that now," he said. "Hirokazu and the others need us!"
Cyberdramon nodded but held back for a moment as Ryo jogged away. He glared in the direction the shadow had flown and bared his fangs. "..."
*****************
ImperialDramon flew downwards, his cannon pod firing repeatedly as he strafed Demon. Realising he was no match for the other Ultimate in a contest of brute force, the dragon decided to make use of his superior speed and began relying on hit and run tactics. Shakkoumon busied himself keeping enemies away. "Positron Laser!" Demon, for his part, barely felt the attack but wasn't able to move fast enough to counter either. "Flame Inferno!" A column of flame shot out of his hands and spiraled up after ImperialDramon, who whirled in mid-air and evaded it.
"Eat this!" he yelled. "Mega."
"Raaaagggghhhh!" A terrifying roar cut him off and something suddenly slammed into him hard.
"Uff!" The dragon crashed to the ground as Daisuke cried out.
"What's that?!"
Ken looked up and paled visibly. A huge Digimon hovered in the air. It seemed to be made up of various parts of Digimons combined into a single monstrosity. Its body was of Metal Greymon, its legs of Garurumon. Its head was Kabuterimon's and its wings were Airdramon and Angemon's. Its arms belonged to Kuwagamon and Skull Greymon, and Monochromon's tail swished from behind it. Finally, the Chosen Children saw Devimon's arm complete the beast. "Tha...that's..."
Takeru's lip curled into a snarl. "Chimeramon."
*****************
Preview:
Takato: At last, the showdown!
Lee: Everyone, this is the final battle! We must not lose!
Ruki: Huh? What's that?!
????: The Dark Digimon will not win!
Digimon Tamers: Dark Wing! Showdown! Let's go! Justice Kick!
*****************
Author's notes: For those of you who are unfamiliar with the sneezing joke, in anime and manga, when someone talks about another character, the person being talked about often sneezes. Even Hajime Saito, the Wolf of Mibu from Ruroni Kenshin, has been a victim of this gag.
Reviews, comments, suggestions and criticisms (constructive or otherwise) are welcome and can be sent to Withoutmorals@antisocial.com
Author's notes: To the people who recognised Mazinger Z's attacks: Congratulations! Mazinger was the first anime I ever remember watching and indirectly led me to Gundam and Digimon. Majin...GO!
Digimon Levels:
Child: Rookie Adult: Champion Perfect: Ultimate Ultimate: Mega
Author's notes: ********* means a scene change.
Digimon Tamers: Dark Wing
Roar! Chimeramon!
Disclaimer: Digimon Tamers and related elements are registered trademarks of Toei, Bandai and their respective owners and are used without permission.
"Who are you?" Demon demanded.
Dukemon rose to his feet, raising his lance and pointing at the Dark Digimon leader. "I, Dukemon, will defeat you!"
"Insolent brat!" Skull Satamon roared. "How dare you!" He charged at Dukemon, the orb at the end of his staff glowing. "Nail Bone!" A group of Tankmon followed him, firing their machinegun arms at Dukemon.
The Holy Knight Digimon moved with surprising speed, leaping up into the air, his crimson cloak billowing behind him. "Royal Slash!" He swung his lance, a crimson wave slicing through the air.
"!" Skull Satamon leaned back, pulling himself up and barely avoiding the attack. The Tankmons following him were not so lucky and were sliced in half. "Wh...what in the world?" Skull Satamon glared at the silver-armoured Ultimate, the yellow flames that represented his eyes flaring up in the empty eye sockets of his skull. "This speed! That power!"
"Hn," Dukemon smirked. "This is what the combination of a Tamer and his Digimon can do." He hefted his lance over his shoulder, the picture of self- confidence. "Right, Takato?"
Inside the Holy Knight, floating in an orb of yellow energy circled by data, Takato smiled, as always amused at the amount of confidence his partner had in his Ultimate form. "You bet, Guilmon." The boy clenched his fist. "Okay, let's go!"
"Right!" Dukemon shifted into a battle pose and pointed at Demon. "Come on!"
"..." Ken and Daisuke could feel sweatdrops inching down their faces as they watched Dukemon badmouth the Dark Digimon from a nearby building. "Uh, Lee-kun," Ken said to the younger boy. "Is he always like that?"
Lee laughed nervously. "Ah hahahaha..."
Terriermon leapt off his Tamer's shoulder. "Let's go, Jen!" The little white Digimon hopped impatiently. "We're gonna get left behind!"
"Okay, okay," Lee said, holding up his green D-Ark. "Matrix Evolution!" There was a brilliant flash of green light and when it faded, Saint Galgomon stood beside the building.
Lee could feel the grin in Terriermon's voice as he quipped, "This is where you're supposed to yell 'Saint Galgomon! Go!'"
"You're not exactly a super robot, Terriermon."
"Aw, you're no fun," his partner sulked as he extended his ears into wings and activated the boosters in his back.
"Ken-kun, Daisuke-kun, be careful, okay?" Lee called out.
"Heh." Daisuke grinned. "Let's show them what we can do, V-mon!"
"Okay, Daisuke!" The little blue Digimon picked Wormmon up. "Ready, Wormmon?"
The green caterpillar nodded. "Ready whenever you are, Onii-chan!"
Ken held up his D-3. "Be careful, you two!"
"Go!" Daisuke punched the air in the direction of the Dark Digimon.
V-mon took a running jump off the building. "V-mon, evolve!" A blue light engulfed the red-eyed dragon as he fell.
"Wormmon, evolve!" Wormmon began glowing a greenish light as he dropped with V-mon.
XV-mon's body grew larger and more muscular, his head enlongating and becoming more dragon-like. Razor-sharp fangs lined his mouth and two grey symbols formed an X on his chest. Grey wings sprouted out of his back as a single blade-like horn grew out of his snout. Two spikes grew out of his knuckles and his tail became longer and more powerful. "XV-mon!"
Meanwhile, a powerfully built humanoid body replaced Wormmon's insect form, covered in green and black armour. A yellow symbol resembling the one on V-mon's head appeared, though this one seemed more like a 'Y'. The feelers atop his head grew longer and a shock of reddish hair was visible underneath his helmet-like head. Two huge claws tipped his feet while his arms ended in five. Four dragonfly wings appeared on his back as two red bug eyes appeared in the helmet. "Stingmon!"
"Jogress Evolve!" The two of them flew higher, their bodies glowing again. Like twin comets, they gave off a brilliant light as they streaked across the sky, finally merging into one. "Paildramon!"
The Jogressed Digimon hovered in mid-air for a split-second before flying even higher. "Ultimate Evolve!" The blue and green Perfect vanished in an explosion of light, replaced by a huge shadow that dived down at where Dukemon stared down the Dark Digimon army. Huge crimson wings carried it through the air, while black armour covered most of its body. A long tail swished in the air and a cannon-like pod lay on its back. Three golden claws tipped its front and back legs, and two huge blades, also gold, made up past of its armoured forelegs. Two more blades, these pointing backwards, protected the Digimon's back legs. Finally, an awesome, fearsome head lined with fangs and covered in red and white armour that lined its yellow eyes drew attention to it as it roared. "ImperialDramon!"
"Okay!" Daisuke yelled, clenching his fist and pumping it into the air. "Go get 'em, ImperialDramon!"
Ken bit his thumb worriedly. "Just remember to stick to the plan, Daisuke- kun."
"Don't worry, Ichijouji," the goggle boy said, clapping the other boy on the back. "Between all of us, there's no way Demon's going to win!"
"I hope you're right." The former Kaizer turned to the city, where Dukemon was joined by ImperialDramon. "Because if we lose, this world is finished."
*****************
"And your's will be next, Kaizer," Devimon mused as he spied on the two Chosen Children through his Black Gears. The Dark Messenger snorted as he watched the Tamers and Chosen Children split into their groups. "Hn." His face twisted into a smile as he spoke over his shoulder. "Nanomon, report!"
"Know your place, Devimon!" Nanomon hissed. "I'm a Perfect! Don't presume to command me!"
Devimon sighed and suddenly appeared before the wire-armed cyborg, surprising him. The Dark Messenger wasted no words, grabbing Nanomon and holding him up, his claws digging into the bulb that protected his brain. "Do not speak to me in that tone again." His grip tightened, cracks appearing along Nanomon's head. "Or Perfect or not, you will join Vamdemon within me." His eyes narrowed dangerously. "Do you understand?"
"Y-yes..." The Perfect was afraid, as much as he hated to admit it. His sensors in his head could sense an immense power coursing through the Adult. Power that could rival even Demon himself. As he was dropped, the cyborg decided it was in his best interest to stay out of Devimon's way.
*****************
"Here we are!" Hirokazu hopped off Guardromon's shoulder as the Adult landed. Kenta and MarineAngemon rode on him as well while Hikari and Miyako rode Nefertimon and Holsmon.
"So what do we do now?" Kenta asked. The green-haired boy looked around.
"I guess we wait for Ryo-san and his team to make their move," Hikari told him as Nefertimon devolved into Tailmon. "That would be the best time to surprise them."
"Exactly, Hikari-chan." Yamaki's voice came over the headphones each of them was wearing. "Takato-kun, Ken-kun and Daisuke-kun have engaged the enemy and are pulling back according to plan."
"What about Takeru-kun and Iori?" The brunette asked.
"Almost in position." Yamaki's voice crackled for a moment. "They're having trouble since the enemy force is bigger than we thought, so they're taking a longer route. They should be there in time, though."
Hikari nodded as Yamaki signed off. "Yamaki-san said Takeru-kun and the others will be ready soon."
"That's good to hear," Tailmon said, her Holy Ring glittering as her tail swished in the air.
"Yeah," Miyako said. "I just want to get those guys out of our hair and go home!"
"Patience, Miyako-san," Hawkmon chasted her. "We have to be careful. Remember the last time we fought the Demon Corps?"
"I know, I know," the purple-haired girl grumbled.
"Keep your eyes open, Guardromon," Hirokazu instructed his partner. "We don't want anyone sneaking up on us."
*****************
"Devimon!" Nanomon turned, his mismatched eyes glowing. "Intruders!"
Devimon glanced at the screen the Perfect was gesturing at. "I see." Hirokazu, Hikari and the others were visible onscreen. "Since most of the others are in the field, you will have to deal with them, Nanomon."
"What? Why me?"
"Because you have more chance surviving them than you have surviving me."
"!" The mechanical Perfect headed for the door without another word.
"And Nanomon!" Nanomon turned just in time to catch something Devimon threw at him. "Next time, try hiding your bombs more carefully."
'How could he find my boobytraps?' the cyborg wondered.
"It was simple," Devimon cut into his thoughts.
"W-what?" The Perfect was shocked. "How can you read my mind?"
"It's not so much reading your mind as it is controlling it." Devimon smiled evilly as he touched his head with a clawed finger.
"Controlling...?" Nanomon brought a tri-fingered hand up to his head and felt a circular object attached to the dome that protected his brain. "A Black Gear?!"
"Hn." The Dark Messenger smirked. "Just a precaution to ensure everything goes smoothly. Now go."
Nanomon began moving towards the door agianst his will. "Curse you, Devimon! I'll see you dead for this!"
"Assuming you survive, of course." The Adult waved towards the door. "Now off with you. Return victorious, or not at all!"
"Devimooooon!"
*****************
"Flame Inferno!" A wall of flames blazed through the air, burning everything in its path.
Dukemon leapt out of the way, aiming his lance at Demon. "Royal Saber!" A crimson beam shot out of the weapon and struck the Demon Lord, who managed to deflect the attack with a massive wing.
"Mugen Cannon!" MugenDramon fired at the Holy Knight, who kicked off the ground as the blasts tore the street apart.
As Dukemon landed, Pinnochimon suddenly appeared in front of him. "Bullet Hammer!"
"Ufff!" The Puppet Digimon swung his hammer, smashing the silver Digimon and hurling him through the air.
Pinnochimon reached behind him, his hand closing around the wooden cross on his back. "Flying Cross Cutter!" He threw the cross, sending in spinning at Dukemon as he fell.
"Positron Laser!"
The cross fell to the ground in pieces as Dukemon righted himself in mid- air, landing nimbly. "?"
ImperialDramon, who'd been simultaneously fighting Lady Devimon, SkullSatamon and MetalSeaDramon, pulled away. "You okay?" the Ultimate asked as he landed beside the knight.
"Yeah," Takato replied. "Thanks."
"We'd better start getting back to the others," Dukemon said, taking a step back and raising his lance and shield.
"That's right," Ken's voice agreed. Takato blinked, then remembered he had been wearing a headset when he Matrix Evolved with Guilmon. "I can see the bulk of Demon's forces heading in your direction. They're trying to cut you off!"
"Get out of there!" Daisuke yelled.
"Get on!" ImperialDramon urged. Dukemon nodded and leapt onto the Ancient Dragon Digimon's back, straddling the cannon pod and making him look like a knight with a ferocious dragon for a steed. "Let's go!"
"Okay!" Dukemon aimed his lance forward as ImperialDramon flew at the Digimons before them. "Royal Saber!"
Piemon and his forces scattered as Dukemon and ImperialDramon tore through their ranks and headed for the Hypnos Towers. "They're getting away! After them!"
"Wait." Demon glared at the apparently fleeing Digimon. "MugenDramon. Take your forces and circle around their right. Locate and destroy any enemies who stand in your way." The Dark Digimon leader shifted as he spoke again. "MetalEtemon. Go around to the left."
"You suspect a trap?" MugenDramon asked.
Demon nodded. "Why do only two of them attack?" he mused. "Even if they Jogress, there should be more of them."
MetalSeaDramon understood. "So those two are just bait to lure us into an ambush."
"Precisely." Demon turned to his Demon Corps. "Skull Satamon. Marine Devimon. Lady Devimon. I want you to take your forces and destroy that building." He indicated the Hypnos Towers. "Leave not even a scorched stone standing!"
"Yes, Demon-sama!" The three Perfects bowed and rallied their forces.
"The rest of you, follow me!" Demon spread his massive wings and flew off in the direction Dukemon and ImperialDramon had flown in, the rest of his army following him.
*****************
"The enemy have split up," Megumi reported. Various statistics were reflected in the visor she wore. "I count three columns separating from the main group!"
"Just as we thought," Yamaki acknowledged. "Now we have to hope Lee-kun and Ryo-kun's teams can defeat those units."
"Sir," Reika called. "Hirokazu-kun's unit is in position!"
"Good. Tell them to stand by."
"Understood."
Yamaki spoke into an intercom. "Is the Shaggai ready?"
"Almost," Janyuu's voice replied. "We're putting on the finishing touches now."
"Good. As soon as you're ready, let me know." Yamaki took out a handkerchief and wiped his sweat-soaked brow. "After this, I'm going to need a vacation..."
Reika smiled sympathetically from underneath her visor.
*****************
"How long are we supposed to wait?" Hirokazu grumbled.
Miyako nodded in agreement. "Yeah. All this waiting is driving me nuts!"
Hawkmon sighed as he perched on Guardromon's shoulder. "Your partner isn't very patient, is he?"
"No more than yours," the Adult commented.
The red, bird-like Digimon chuckled. "Point taken. Ever notice how Digimon like us always seem to get the hotheaded ones?"
The other Digimon shrugged. "Karma?"
"Maybe."
"That's not very nice," Tailmon scolded. "Digimons are supposed to reflect the partner!"
"We're just joking," Hawkmon protested.
Guardromon looked confused. "We are?"
Meanwhile, Hikari and Miyako were speaking to Hirokazu and Kenta, Miyako holding MarineAngemon. "I hope Daisuke-kun and the others are okay," Hikari said, rubbing her arms nervously. The sounds of battle floated over to the waiting team, putting them on edge.
"We shouldn't worry," Hirokazu assured her. "Takato, Ryo-san and the others won't let anything happen."
Miyako nodded in agreement as she scratched MarineAngemon's head, making the little Digimon purr contentedly. "He's right, Hikari." The purple- haired girl tossed her head. "Worrying won't do anything. We just have to have faith, right?"
"!" MarineAngemon suddenly straightened and hovered out of Miyako's hands. "Pupiipi!"
"What what?" Miyako was surprised by the Digimon's sudden outburst and turned to Kenta. "What's he saying?"
"Duck!" The boy tackled the older girl, the momentum knocking them both to the ground just as something landed a few feet away and exploded.
"Aaah!" Hikari was thrown off her feet, as was Hirokazu. The two of them rose to their feet, stunned.
"Hikari!" "Hirokazu!" "Miyako-san!" The three Digimon were instantly at their partners' sides, ready to counter whatever had attacked them.
"Fall!" Nanomon appeared down the street, his wire arms waving menacingly. "Plug Bomb!" He hurled dozens of small but powerful bombs at them, trying to engulf them in a sea of flame.
"Scatter!" Tailmon quickly took charge, barking orders at the other Digimon. Guardromon grabbed Hirokazu and Hikari, airlifting them out of harms way.
"Pupipupi!" MarineAngemon opened his mouth, releasing a bubble that covered him and the two humans, lifting them up after Guardromon.
"Miyako-san!" Hawkmon called out as he flew up into the air.
"Okay!" The girl held out her D-3. "Digimental Up!"
Hawkmon began whirling in mid-air. "Hawkmon! Armour-evolve!" A leaf-green egg flew at him, bursting open as it did so. A bright green light covered him, restructuring his form from his bird-like form to a more humanoid one. His arms and legs became long and wire-like, ending in what looked like the throwing stars used by the semi-legendary ninjas of old. White body armour protected his body, his head hidden under a ninja helmet, leaving only his yellow eyes visible. A huge throwing star was attached to his back. "Blades of Purity! Shurimon!"
Meanwhile, Guardromon and MarineAngemon set their friends down. "We'll be okay here," Hirokazu told them. "Help the others!"
"Okay," Guardromon nodded. "MarineAngemon, can you stay here just in case?"
"Pupii!" MarineAngemon flew over to the Tamers and Chosen Children, hovering protectively in front of them. "Pipupi!"
"Thanks." The robotic Adult flew at Nanomon, who was already battling Tailmon and Shurimon. "Destruction Grenade!" Tiny missles wearing little police hats launched out of his arms, blowing tiny whistles as they flew at the cyborg.
"Awk!" Nanomon leapt back as the ground beneath him exploded.
"Cat Punch!" Tailmon leapt at him, her gloved paws outstretched. She delivered a flurry of blows at the Perfect, her claws digging grooves into his armour. "Cat Kick!" She dived at him as he swung his arm, kicking off and using the momentum to leap clear of his clumsy counterattack.
Shurimon somersaulted and landed behind him before he could react. His star-shaped hands began spinning like sawblades as he leapt into the air, diving at Nanomon. "Bungee Jump!"
"Plug Flash!" Nanomon's brain emitted a blinding flash of light, making Shurimon yell out in surprise and veer away.
Miyako cried out as her partner fell to his knees, a hand over his eyes. "Shurimon!"
"I'm alright, Miyako-san," the Armoured Digimon assured her, getting up unsteadily. "I just need a few moments..."
"Watch out!" Guardromon warned as he fired again.
One of Nanomon's hands folded back, revealing a small cannon. "Nano Crush!" A purple orb appeared at its opening. "Die!" The two Destruction Grenades Guardromon suddenly froze in mid-air, then seemed to fold into themselves as if crushed by an unseen force.
"Not good!" Hirokazu groaned.
Kenta called to MarineAngemon. "MarineAngemon, do something!"
"Piipupi!" The little pink Ultimate obliged, opening his mouth and blowing small bluish bubbles at the Perfect.
"What's that going to do?" Miyako cried incredulously.
Kenta grinned. "You'd be surprised."
Nanomon didn't hear any of this, his mind raging as the Black Gear controlled his movements. 'Devimon!' he screamed in the prison of his mind. 'Why? Tell me!'
Devimon' voice echoed through his mind via the Black Gear. 'I need someone to keep them busy while I prepare.'
'Prepare? Prepare for what?'
'The dead don't need to know.'
'What are you...'
'You distracted me from the task of keeping you alive. Farewell, Nanomon.'
'Eh?' Nanomon suddenly snapped to attention as Devimon gave up control of him. "Free!" Then he saw the bubbles floating at him. "What is this?" The Perfect swiped at the bubbles, irritated. "Out of my way! I will kill you, Devimon!"
Hirokazu glared at Kenta. "Now what?"
"Wait for it..."
"Eh?" Nanomon suddenly took a step back. "Wh...what?" Bubbles suddenly appeared inside his dome. "Aaaaarghhh!" His mechanical brain began shorting out as he screamed. "You...you...!"
"Now!" Tailmon dashed at him, pulling her paw back. "Cat Punch!"
Guardromon launched his missles, following her lead. "Destruction Grenade!"
Shurimon reached behind him, pulling the huge throwing star off his back. "Kusanagi!"
Tailmon's blow cracked the dome as Nanomon reeled. "Plug Bomb!" The mechanical Perfect flailed at her, hurling a number of his small but powerful explosives at her. As the feline dodged the bombs, Nanomon yelled as Shurimon's Kusanagi sliced him in half. "AaaaahhhK*"
Miyako yelped and looked away as the mechanical Digimon fell apart, breaking up into random bits of data. Hirokazu clenched his fist. "Yes! Got him!" The boy looked to the others. "What do you think?" he asked. "Should we go in?"
Miyako looked at him strangely. "We just killed a Digimon!" she said. "Don't you feel anything?"
Hirokazu cocked his head. "Why? He was trying to kill us! It was either him or us!"
"Still..."
"What's going on over there?" Yamaki interrupted over the headsets. "What's happened?"
"We were ambushed," Hikari reported. "We managed to take care of it, though."
"Good."
Hirokazu spoke into his headset. "It looks like there's no one else here," he said. "We'll go inside."
There was silence as Yamaki weighed the pros and cons of the request. "Alright," came the reply. "But be careful. This may be a trap."
"Got it." Hirokazu nodded to the others. "Let's go."
Hikari shook her head. "I'm not sure about this..." she told him.
"What's wrong, Hikari?" Tailmon asked.
The brunette shook her head again. "I don't know..." she admitted. "I just feel like something bad is going to happen."
****************
"Royal Saber!" Dukemon thrust at a group of Dokugumon, scattering the spider-like Digimons with a crimson energy beam.
ImperialDramon twisted in mid-air as he charged a squad of enemy Digimon. "Splendor Blade!" The golden blades on his forearms swung outwards, slicing at the fliers as they flew by. A Devidramon shrieked and crashed, breaking into data as it hit the ground.
Meanwhile, Ken and Daisuke watched nervously from the nearby park. "This is bad..." Ken said, seeing the two Ultimates cut off from the Hypnos building. "They aren't in position yet..."
"Hey!" Daisuke yelled into his headset. "What do we do now? ImperialDramon and Dukemon can't move!"
*****************
"Damn!" Yamaki cursed as Reika confirmed what Daisuke said. "They moved too fast!"
"What do we do?" Lee asked, his voice anxious as it came over the speakers.
"No choice," Yamaki decided, turning to the monitor which displayed the battlefield. "Lee-kun, take your unit and help Takato and the others!"
"Got it." Lee signed off as Megumi gasped and turned to Yamaki.
"Sir!" she cried, her voice strained with rising panic.
"What is it?"
"Enemy Digimon incoming!"
"What?" The blond man looked up at the monitor. Sure enough a group of red blips were moving in the direction of Hypnos. He gritted his teeth. "Blast! They're dividing their forces too!"
"Well, they aren't stupid," Archnemon commented. "Considering how obvious our plan was."
"Archnemon." Oikawa chided his creation as he entered the room. "Yamaki- san," he said, addressing the Hypnos commander. "We'll head to the roof and protect the Shaggai System."
"Alright," the beleagured blond agreed. "Meanwhile, we'll keep Shuichon and Juri here as backup.
"But..." Shuichon protested.
"Shucihon." After making sure he had his daughter's attention, Janyuu shook his head.
Shuichon sat down, pouting. "It's not fair," she muttered. "Jen-nii-chan's in trouble and they won't let me help him!"
"I know how you feel," Juri told her, kneeling next to the little girl. "I want to be out there helping Takato-kun," she blushed slightly as she spoke, "but it's important for us to be here in case something happens." She smiled reassuringly at the younger Tamer. "Okay?"
"...Okay."
****************
"Giant Bazooka!" As the missiles launched from Saint Galgomon's shoulders, Lee cursed internally. After hearing how ImperialDramon and Dukemon had become surrounded, he and the others had moved to help, only to run into a unit of enemy Digimon head on. Now, Saint Galgomon, Sakuyamon and Shakkoumon were engaged in battle, trying to fight their way to their friends. "Missile Punch!"
"This is getting us nowhere!" Ruki yelled as Sakuyamon somersaulted over a Raremon and launching her fox spirits. "While we're stuck here, Takato and the others..."
"I know!" Saint Galgomon stomped the ground, the shockwave knocking most of the enemy off their feet. "Ruki! Takeru-kun, Iori-kun! Go help the others! We'll handle things here!"
"What?!" Ruki yelled at him. "What, are you acting like Ryo now? There's no way we're leaving you behind!"
"Don't worry!" Saint Galgomon told her. "Jen and I can handle this! Just go help Takato!"
"But..."
"Just go!" Lee yelled as Saint Galgomon used Burst Shot, firing all his weapons at the enemy Digimon. "Please, Ruki! I need you to protect Shuichon for me!"
"..." Ruki growled with irritation. "Fine," she agreed at last. "Be careful!"
Sakuyamon leapt away from the battle and back flipped until she landed between Takeru and Iori. "Hold on," she said, picking them up and tucking them under her arms.
"Whoaaaa!" Takeru yelled as she took a running jump and leapt over a group of Raremon. "What about Shakkoumon?"
"Shakkoumon!" Iori called. "Devolve!"
"Okay!" The statue-like Digimon began glowing as Sakuyamon ran towards him. There was a flash of light, and suddenly Takeru and Iori were holding their partners Patamon and Armidamon in their hands.
"Jen! Give us cover!" Ruki ordered as she ran through the various Dark Digimons in the direction of Takato's group.
"Burst Shot!" Launching another barrage, Saint Galgomon either obliterated or scattered their attackers, clearing a path for the silver-haired warrior.
"Good luck!" Lee called as they left. "Okay, Terriermon," he said after he was sure they were safely out of the way. "Let's do it!"
"Okay, Jen!"
*****************
"..." Unnoticed by neither Tamer nor Chosen Child, MugenDramon's head hovered in the air, observing the battle. He noted Sakuyamon's departure, but his main concern was now Saint Galgomon. "Subject...identified." Various data was called up, lining the edge of his view with information. "Saint Galgomon. Previous encounters: None. No information available."
"Speculation." MugenDramon spoke out loud, giving commands to his built-in computer.
"Saint Galgomon," obliged the computer. "Probable level: Ultimate. Attacks: Burst Shot. Giant Bazooka."
"..." The mechanical dragon's head hovered in place. "I had best remain in position and gather more information."
******************
Hikari shivered as she and the others walked through the deserted temple. Tailmon looked up at her. "What is it, Hikari?"
The brunette looked down at her partner. "It's nothing, Tailmon."
"Shh," Hirokazu warned. "I think we're near the main hall."
The Tamers and Chosen Children moved slowly forward, careful to make as little noise as possible. The air became thicker as they moved forward and the temperature began to drop. "Ah." The team froze as the voice echoed through the chamber. "My guests have arrived." Slowly, Devimon rose from the ground in the middle of the hall, just in front of the Dark Gate. "You might as well show yourselves," he said. "I know you're there."
Tailmon and the others exchanged a glance before the cat-like Digimon spoke. "We might as well. We've got nothing to lose."
"Okay," Hikari agreed. "But be careful, everyone."
"Guardromon," Hirokazu said to his partner. "I'm counting on you if Devimon pulls anything."
"Got it," acknowledged the mechanical Adult. "I've got you covered."
"What are you up to, Devimon?" Hikari demanded as she and the others stepped into the Dark Digimon's view.
"The Chosen Child of Light." Devimon fixed her with a glare she returned with surprising ease. "Hm. Brave." The Fallen Angel curled his lip disdainfully. "If only Vamdemon had succeeded in killing you, this wouldn't have been necessary."
"Well he didn't succeed," Hikari growled back. "Now, why are you doing this?"
"And I suppose that is my cue to launch into a long-winded explanation of my plan." Devimon smiled. "Hmph." The Dark Digimon snapped his fingers. "Kill them."
"Hirokazu!" Guardromon warned. "Incoming!"
"Wh...what?!" Hikari gasped as a group of shadowy figures appeared. "That's..."
As one, Angemon, Kabuterimon, Metal Greymon, Kuwagamon, Monochromon, Garurumon, Skull Greymon and Airdramon moved out of the shadows and attacked, the room soon filling with the sounds of desperate battle.
*****************
"Royal Saber!" Dukemon leapt back as he fired, twisting in mid-air to avoid a Bakemon's Hell Hand attack.
"Chikuso!" Takato cursed, breathing heavily. "They just keep coming!"
"We won't lose, Takato!" Dukemon assured him, thrusting forward with his lance and stabbing a Soulmon, disintegrating the ghost-like Adult.
ImperialDramon was breathing heavily as well. "We won't last much longer like this..." the Jogressed Ultimate growled.
"Humans." Demon spoke, his voice echoing through the air as the gigantic Demon Lord hovered into view. "I am impressed that you held out this long. Surrender and swear loyalty to me, and perhaps I can find you a place in the new world order we, the Dark Digimon, will form."
"Never!" Dukemon yelled. "I, Dukemon, will never surrender! Not as long as my Tamer and I have strength left!" The silver and red Ultimate raised his shield, aiming at Demon as the symbols that lined its edges began glowing. "Final Elysian!" The Digital Hazard symbol on his shield began glowing before firing a beam of pure energy at Demon.
"Hn." The Dark Digimon folded his wings, using them as a shield. "Darkness Distortion!" A purple glow coated his bat-like wings just as the Final Elysian hit.
"Wh-what?" Dukemon took a step back as his attack was dispersed on Demon's shield.
"I offered you a chance to survive," Demon said, unfolding his wings. "Now I offer only death." He nodded to his followers. "Kill them."
"Chikuso..." Takato swore as the Dark Digimons moved in for the kill.
"Wait!" There was a flash of gold, and suddenly a beautiful silver-haired warrior stood behind Demon.
"Hm?" The Dark Digimon leader turned. "Who are you?"
Sakuyamon didn't reply, instead whirling her staff above her head. "Vajra..." A circle of light appeared at her feet. "World..." She held her staff high. "Mandala!"
"Eh?!" Demon's eyes widened as a burst of holy energy suddenly exploded from around her, engulfing the Demon Lord and any of his troops nearby.
"Ruki! Sakuyamon!" Takato breathed with relief. "Am I glad to see you!"
Ruki smirked. "I thought knights were supposed to protect damsels, Takato, not the other way around." Her smile widened. "Or is Juri the only one you protect?"
Takato blushed. "Tha...that's..." He gulped before yelling, "We don't have time for that! Let's go, Guilmon!"
"Okay, Takato!" Dukemon charged, his lance flashing in the air as he stabbed at the now confused Dark Digimons.
"That wasn't nice, Ruki," Renamon's voice echoed in the girl's head.
"I know," she replied. "But I couldn't help it. He's just so easy to bait like that."
"Really." Ruki made out a smirk in her partner's voice. "I wonder how you'd like it if anyone teased you about Ryo-san."
"What?!" Ruki growled as Sakuyamon ran forward to join Dukemon, ImperialDramon and Shakkoumon. "You make it sound like I actually like that idiot!"
*****************
"Hachoo!" Ryo sneezed.
Cyberdramon, BlackWarGreymon and Beelzebumon, who had spent the last hour hidden in a damaged building after Ryo stressed the need for surprise, all turned and glared at him as a voice yelled out, "I hear something!"
"Smooth move," Beelzebumon chided as he drew his guns.
BlackWarGreymon growled as he readied his Dramon Killers. "So much for surprise."
Ryo sniffed. "Sorry," he apologized.
"No time for that," Cyberdramon roared, his hands glowing as Metal Etemon's forces came upon them. "Attack! Erase Claw!"
*****************
"Yamaki! Ryo's group has just engaged the enemy!" Reika reported.
Megumi called out as well. "Ruki-chan's team has arrived at Takato-kun's location!"
"Understood." Yamaki turned to the monitor. "What's the situation with the Digimons coming this way?"
"They've split up into two groups," Reika reported. "Looks like one group has fliers and the other is on its way here on foot."
Yamaki folded his arms thoughtfully. "Archnemon and Mummymon are already on the roof, right?"
"Yes," Janyuu replied. The Wild Bunch member looked worried. "You're not suggesting..."
"We don't have a choice," Yamaki told him. He sighed heavily. "Reika. Tell Juri and Shuichon to get ready for battle."
"You're not serious?!" Reika was aghast.
"We just need them to hold the enemy off until Takato or one of the others can get here." Yamaki thought for a moment. "Or at least until the Shaggai is fully charged."
"It will be ready within the hour," Janyuu assured him. "I am not going to risk losing two of my children."
*****************
"Cat Punch!" Tailmon lashed out, knocking Angemon to the ground. "That felt wrong..." she said to herself.
"Above!" Guardromon launched Destruction Grenades as he yelled out the warning. The missiles exploded on Kabuterimon and Kuwagamon, halting the insect-like Adults in mid-air.
"Hawkmon evolve!" Hawkmon flew upwards as he began evolving, his body growing larger and more aqualine. Two horns grew out of his head and his beak became sharper and more curved. With a beat of his wings, he launched himself into the air. "Aquilamon!"
Hikari called to Tailmon. "Tailmon!"
Simultaneously, Miyako called up to Aquilamon. "Ready, Aquilamon?"
The two Digimons nodded. "Aquilamon!" "Tailmon!" They flew upwards together, transforming into twin balls of light that fused into one. The ball grew larger and more brilliant as Tailmon and Aquilamon's voices echoed, "Jogress Evolve!" With a flash of light, a new Digimon stood before Devimon, a smirk on its face. "Silphymon!"
"Hn." Devimon smiled. "Skull Greymon! Metal Greymon!" The two Perfects loomed up from behind him. "Attack!"
Meanwhile, Marine Angemon kept himself busy shielding the humans from stray attacks. "Hold on, Marine Angemon," Hirokazu said as he reached into the card holder on his belt. "Card Slash! Metal Armour!"
Guardromon's body began glowing a light grey as he ran at Kuwagamon, Kabuterimon, Angemon and Airdramon. "Hirokazu!"
"Okay!" The visored boy held up his D-Ark. "Card Slash! Seed of Speed!"
"Dynamite Tackle!" Guardromon boosted upwards, ramming the flying Digimon and scattering them.
"..." Devimon watched calmly as they fell, then swiveled his head as Silphymon yelled, "Dual Sonic!" and rammed Metal Greymon, knocking him into Skull Greymon. Devimon murmured to himself. "Hn. As I thought, Card Digimon are powerful but mindless." He smiled. "So be it."
Meanwhile, Guardromon noticed he had a clear shot at him. "Destruction Grenade!"
"Hn?" Devimon looked up, just as the missiles exploded in his face.
"Got him!" Hirokazu grinned, clenching his fist.
"No more games." The smoke around Devimon cleared, revealing the Dark Angel still standing. He hadn't even flinched. He raised his hands. "Jogress."
"What?!" Hikari and Miyako gasped in unision.
*****************
"Yamaki!" Megumi called. "We're picking something up from Hikari and Hirokazu's unit!"
"What?" Yamaki turned away from the map display.
"Hold on, I'll patch it through."
"...is Hikari! We might need some help here!"
"What's wrong?" Yamaki asked.
"It's Devimon!" she replied. "He's..." Suddenly, there was a roar and the line went dead, replaced with static.
"Hikari-chan?!" Megumi's fingers flew over her console as she tried to reestablish contact. "I've lost her!"
"Who's closest?" Yamaki asked.
"Ryo's group."
"Tell them to get there and help Hikari's unit."
"Yes, sir."
*****************
"Double Impact!" A blast from Beelzebumon's shotguns blew a Raremon apart, the bullets ripping through the other Digimons as well.
"Dramon Killer!" BlackWarGreymon's attack was no less destructive, scattering or killing anyone who stood in his way.
Cyberdramon brought his fist down on a Devidramon's head with enough force to shatter its skull and delete it. Flying higher, he faced off with two more, eager to avenge their brother. "Erase Claw!"
As the two Devidramons dissolved into data, Ryo was yelling into his headset to be heard over the battle. "What?" he yelled.
"I said, Hikari's team needs help! You have get over to the temple!" Megumi yelled back.
"We're kind of in the middle of something here," Ryo told her. "But we'll do what we can!"
"Go," Beelzebumon told him. "We can handle things here."
"But..."
"Gaia Force!"
Ryo blinked as BlackWarGreymon's attack vaporised a large number of their attackers. Of all the Digimons that had been attacking them, there were now less than 40% left. Cyberdramon landed nearby. "Are we going?" he asked.
"Yeah," Ryo nodded. "Looks like you two can handle things here," he said to Beelzebumon. "Let's go, Cyberdramon!"
The black armoured dragon nodded and picked him up, taking a running jump and flying off in the direction of Devimon's temple. As Beelzebumon began tearing into the remaining enemy, BlackWarGreymon spoke to him. "You'd best go help the others."
"They can handle themselves," Beelzebumon told him. "I should know."
"Perhaps, but there are only a few enemies left here." The dragon man stabbed an Airdramon and slashed another before kicking them both away. "There are four Dark Masters and Demon over there. Let me finish things here."
"Hmph," Beelzebumon grunted as he fired his shotguns. "I think you just want all the fun for yourself." He yelled. "Behemoth!" His motorcycle roared up to him, scattering the few survivors. "I'll leave things to you, then," Beelzebumon called, replacing his guns into their holsters.
"Now then..." BlackWarGreymon said as Beelzebumon rode off. He turned to face MetalEtemon, who stood surrounded by his remaining forces. "You must be their leader."
"I am MetalEtemon-sama," the metallic primate told him.
"Hn. Then you're the one I must kill to end this battle." BlackWarGreymon stretched before raising his arms. "Let's make this quick. I am needed elsewhere." He paused before dropping his Dramon Killers onto the ground. "I will settle this with my fists! Ready?"
MetalEtemon smirked. "Stay back, boys. I'll take this clown." He coiled his legs before launching himself at BlackWarGreymon. "Let's get it on!"
*****************
Meanwhile, Skull Satamon, Lady Devimon and their squad arrived at the Hypnos building. "There it is," the red skeletal Perfect said.
"Let's get to work," Lady Devimon replied. "Go!" Her followers, made up of Flymons, Devidramons and Mekanorimons flew forward.
"Gun Attack!" Mummymon leapt out from behind the Shaggai System, opening fire on the approaching Digimons and shooting them down.
"Mummymon?" Skull Satamon said in surprise. "What are you doing?"
"What does it look like?" Archnemon asked as she stepped into view beside Mummymon. "Did you think we'd just sit back and let you do whatever you want?"
"You..." Lady Devimon snarled. "You dare stand against Demon-sama?"
"We did it once," Archnemon retorted.
Skull Satamon whirled his staff. "Then there is nothing more to say." He dived at Mummymon, screaming, "Die!"
*****************
"Royal Saber!" "Positron Laser!" "Wind Instrument Fox!" "Nigimitama!" Takato's group, now reinforced by Ruki's team, were still fighting when Takato heard about Hikari's unit.
"What do you mean you lost contact with Hikari-chan?!" Daisuke yelled. He made as if to run in the direction of Devimon's temple, but Ken grabbed his arm. "Let me go, Ichijouji!"
"Daisuke, listen!" The black-haired boy shooked his friend. "What can you do? We're needed here!"
"But I've got to help Hikari-chan!"
Yamaki's voice came over their headsets. "Ryo is on his way to help them. Just stick to the plan. Shaggai is almost ready."
Daisuke's face twisted in an expression of frustration. "But I can't just sit here and do nothing!"
"Then how about dying?"
"Watch out!" Takeru yelled as he saw MetalSedramon rised up from the ground, his nose cannon already charging.
"Ultimate Stream!" A blast of yellow energy lit the air as he fired.
Ken and Daisuke yelled and shut their eyes as they realised there was no time to dodge the attack. Before they were incinerated, however, Sakuyamon dropped down out of the sky, landing in front of the two boys. She waved her staff, sending out waves of bluish light that turned MetalSeadramon's Ultimate Stream into a river of flower petals. "Che," Ruki snorted. "We're saving boys left and right today. All we need to do now is save Ryo and this'd be the perfect day!"
"Out of my way, woman!" MetalSedramon roared. "I have no time to waste on a weak female!"
"Weak..." Ruki growled.
"Female?" Sakuyamon finished, her teeth clenched. "Dukemon!" She called to her comrade. "This one is mine!"
"Go right ahead," the knight replied, rolling to dodge Pinnochimon's hammer. "I've got my hands full here!"
"You think you can defeat me? A Dark Master?" MetalSeadramon shook with barely supressed laughter.
Sakuyamon clenched her hands around her staff. "We will show you who is weak."
MetalSeadramon laughed. "Is that so? Come then!" He roared as he dived at her, his jaws wide.
*****************
Meanwhile, ImperialDramon and Shakkoumon found themselves face to face with Demon himself. "You should've stayed in the Dark Ocean," ImperialDramon growled.
Demon snorted. "I warned you I would return." He spread his wings, his hands flaming. "This time, I will not waste time toying with you!" He brought his hands together. "Flame Inferno!"
"Mega Death!"
*****************
Piemon stood apart from the battle, watching as Sakuyamon somersaulted over MetalSeadramon, while Dukemon blocked Pinnochimon's hammer with his shield. The Chosen Children kept a low profile some distance from the battlefield, watching as their Jogressed Partners fought Demon. "Hn. A perfect opportunity to dispose of the Chosen Children." His eyes narrowed as his gaze fell on Takeru. "And especially you." He drew his swords.
The sound of guns being loaded caught his attention and he whirled around, his blades ready. Beelzebumon smirked as he held his twin shotguns up. "Last time we met," the Demon Lord said, "You said you'd kill me. So instead of picking on some kids, how about taking me on?"
Piemon smirked as well. "I would've thought you wouldn't be so eager to die."
"We'll see who does the dying around here," Beelzebumon replied.
******************
Ryo and Cyberdramon flew high above the war-torn city, the boy keeping his eyes open for any enemies and his partner focusing on flying. "We should be almost there," the brunette said.
"..." Cyberdramon remained silent but suddenly stopped in mid-air.
"What is it, Cyberdramon?" Ryo asked from where Cyberdramon carried him in his arms.
"Enemy."
"Where?" Cyberdramon didn't reply, instead flying downwards and landing in the shadow of a damaged building. Moments later, a roar shattered the air and a huge shadow flew past. "What was that?" Ryo wondered. Then he shook his head. "No time to worry about that now," he said. "Hirokazu and the others need us!"
Cyberdramon nodded but held back for a moment as Ryo jogged away. He glared in the direction the shadow had flown and bared his fangs. "..."
*****************
ImperialDramon flew downwards, his cannon pod firing repeatedly as he strafed Demon. Realising he was no match for the other Ultimate in a contest of brute force, the dragon decided to make use of his superior speed and began relying on hit and run tactics. Shakkoumon busied himself keeping enemies away. "Positron Laser!" Demon, for his part, barely felt the attack but wasn't able to move fast enough to counter either. "Flame Inferno!" A column of flame shot out of his hands and spiraled up after ImperialDramon, who whirled in mid-air and evaded it.
"Eat this!" he yelled. "Mega."
"Raaaagggghhhh!" A terrifying roar cut him off and something suddenly slammed into him hard.
"Uff!" The dragon crashed to the ground as Daisuke cried out.
"What's that?!"
Ken looked up and paled visibly. A huge Digimon hovered in the air. It seemed to be made up of various parts of Digimons combined into a single monstrosity. Its body was of Metal Greymon, its legs of Garurumon. Its head was Kabuterimon's and its wings were Airdramon and Angemon's. Its arms belonged to Kuwagamon and Skull Greymon, and Monochromon's tail swished from behind it. Finally, the Chosen Children saw Devimon's arm complete the beast. "Tha...that's..."
Takeru's lip curled into a snarl. "Chimeramon."
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Preview:
Takato: At last, the showdown!
Lee: Everyone, this is the final battle! We must not lose!
Ruki: Huh? What's that?!
????: The Dark Digimon will not win!
Digimon Tamers: Dark Wing! Showdown! Let's go! Justice Kick!
*****************
Author's notes: For those of you who are unfamiliar with the sneezing joke, in anime and manga, when someone talks about another character, the person being talked about often sneezes. Even Hajime Saito, the Wolf of Mibu from Ruroni Kenshin, has been a victim of this gag.
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