Digimon Frontier: Trials of the Water Spirit

by WaterBendingQueen88

Meredith is a normal tomboy who gets into fights with her Dad. One day she gets a strange call about some kind of game, then she finds out it's not a game and everything is real. TakuyaOC:

18. Torrent of Wood and Leaves

Amelia's own episode. Amelia belongs to Jeabird, Kyle belongs to Heisei255, and I thank them, and Black Cat Angel for helping me with this story. The Corealmon belong to TheArtsyDigimon of Deviantart.

After departing the Autumn Leaf Fair, the gang went to the Corealmon Village like Ophanimon suggested. Once arriving there, Meredith found out that the Corealmon didn't know what Beast Spirits were, but they were still willing to help her. She ended up taking the advice of a Corealmon and talking to Sirenamon – granted she hadn't set out to talk to her, a nice stroll in the moonlight turned into a conversation thanks to her D-Tector and a marble. The next day, BlackWereGarurumon attacked but the gogglehead girl was able to chase them away once she Beast Spirit Evolved.

Amelia sat with her feet in the water, her socks tucked into her shoes that sat beside her. She hummed softly as she stared up at the sky. Amelia had propped herself up with her hands, claiming the end of what she decided to call a pier for her own. Everyone was doing different things throughout the village – Tommy was playing with some of the Corealmon while J.P. somehow ended up putting a magic show on for some. Zoe was helping the Corealmon tidy up from the events of earlier and Takuya was with the still unconscious Meredith. Koji was just chilling – napping in truth shortly behind Amelia in truth. Kyle was sort of reflecting of what had happened the day before while sort of exploring the Corealmon village. Kyaromon had managed to distract DemiVeemon from worrying by starting a game up with the marbles.

"Do you believe that Meredith passed out because she was in control of her Beast Spirit?" Koji's sudden question made Amelia jump since she hadn't noticed that he had woken up. How did he sneak up on her? Did he made any noise? No, she would've heard them. Guess she was so deep in thought that she didn't hear anything.

"I," she paused, "I'm not sure what to think. It sounds reasonable and it does sound fitting. Why do you ask?"

Amelia tilted her head back so she could look at Koji. Koji sat up but he looked at the pier instead of looking to her. She left the silence alone and looked back to the sky – figuring that he would speak when he was ready to speak. Amelia had learned that Koji was a fan of silence but he did talk – he was just a tad socially awkward in her opinion.

"I was just curious since – maybe it's because you don't have your Beast Spirit yet." Amelia hummed at Koji's words.

The crimson-haired girl closed her eyes, "Yeah, I wonder what mine will be."

Amelia tried to imagine what her Beast Spirit would be like, but she couldn't. The Beast Spirits were so different and there didn't seem to be a clear rhyme or reason to them. The only thing that she had to go on was the fact that it would deal with Wood in some way. At first, in her opinion, Beast Spirits were mindless and reckless, too primal to be tamed. But after witnessing Meredith becoming Sirenamon, she was in complete control. Anything was possible… then again, did she want to find her Beast Spirit?

"Are you really afraid?" Koji's question caused Amelia to stiffen. Admitting fears were never a strong point for her.

"Why, do you ask?" Amelia's question was hesitant. How could Koji see right through her?

Koji rubbed the back of his head and looked away, "Maybe, I could help you?"

Amelia was not only surprised by Koji's offer but caught off guard as well. He may have good intentions when it came to dealing with people, but he didn't often make it known or voice that he wanted to help. Not to mention he was still seemingly getting used to working in a team.

"Melia!" The shout came from Kyaromon who was running towards them – he also effectively cut Amelia off.

"Something wrong?" Amelia asked the question quickly – both out of worry but to also change the subject.

Kyaromon slowed to stop beside Koji, "Nope! Meredith woke up."

"That's great!" Amelia smiled and stood – grabbing her shoes as she did so. She couldn't wait to see Meredith.

"Amelia-".

"I'm going to see how she's feeling!" Amelia ran down the pier – not acknowledging Koji's question or the fact that she had cut him off.

Koji sighed and stared after Amelia. Kyaromon sat still and blinked in confusion. He looked between the retreating figure of Amelia and Koji.

"Did something happen?" Kyaromon asked the question worriedly.

"I don't know – maybe I said something?" Koji sounded unsure – he wasn't used to talking to people or trying to help people like he offered to help Amelia.

Meanwhile, the others had heard that Meredith had woken up and everyone went to see her. Koji also made his way there, arriving a few moments after the others though. Kyaromon riding on his head did get a strange look but also a giggle from Zoe. Seeing everyone there and worried about her made Meredith feel the slightest bit guilty for causing them to worry.

She gave a reassuring smile, "I'm fine guys, really."

"You scared us there Meredith." J.P.'s words resulted in a guilty smile from Meredith.

"I'm sorry." A nervous chuckle followed her words.

Tommy smiled, "No need to apologize."

"Yeah, what matters is that you're fine – not to mention you kicked butt." Zoe grinned away – a hint of pride could be seen in her smile.

"Mama, mama lookie!" DemiVeemon shouted as he rushed over to Meredith, breaking the silence that had settled over the group.

She looked to the little blue dragon to see that one of the marbles had been turned into necklace. The marble was a silver color with flecks of white. Within the marble though was a symbol that sort of looked like a sun almost.

"The Corealmon said it was special and they made it into a necklace for me! Kyaromon has one to!" DemiVeemon exclaimed the words, excited.

Amelia glanced back to Kyaromon who raised his tail and showed off that his had been fashioned into a tail bracelet of sorts. He was grinning happily as he showed it off – proud even.

"Did you thank them?" Amelia asked it – seemingly on reflex.

"I did!" Kyaromon chirped it out.

"Yeah." DemiVeemon's answer wasn't very convincing.

Takuya smiled and patted DemiVeemon's head, "You can thank them before we leave."

"They're very much welcomed. Besides, those gems may serve them well." Everyone turned their attention to the Corealmon when he spoke up.

"Thank you for helping me." Meredith was quick to thank the Corealmon – it had been the one to suggest talking to her Beast Spirit.

The leader smiled, "It's no problem, we're glad to help."

"You Corealmon also know how to treat guests." J.P. spoke the words with a slight chuckle.

"What was that?" Tommy asked the question seconds after there was a beep.

"I never heard that sound before, so it came from one of you guys – or there is another guest that's arrived." The Corealmon words caused the group to look at each other.

When there was another noise, a low screeching sound light accompanied it. The light helped them to locate the source of the noise. To their confusion it was coming from Amelia's D-Tector. Out of confusion, she drew it out – confusion only grew when the globe like map was projected.

"What's that?" Kyle asked it as he stared at the projection.

"It's a map." Amelia gave the short explanation.

"Well, it's trying to tell us to go somewhere." Zoe made the comment, looking at the brown dot that was displayed on the map.

J.P. looked to the Corealmon, "You happen to know what's marked, Corealmon?"

"Hm, let me see." The leader approached to get a better look at the map.

Takuya and Meredith approached as well so they could get a look at the map. There was little to no detail on the map. The Corealmon hummed as he shifted side to side – looking at what surrounded the dot.

"I'd have to say the Renamon Village is marked." Corealmon nodded, "Yes, that's the Renamon Village that isn't too far away."

"Renamon?" Koji questioned it and Corealmon nodded.

"Yes, they're Fox Digimon. They're smart tricksters who underneath it all, have a kind heart, slow to warm Digimon I'd say. They're remarkedly good at keeping their calm and staying level headed in all sorts of situation. Some say they never lose their cool." Bokomon supplied the information and Corealmon nodded.

Zoe looked from the map, "But why are we being pointed there?"

Bokomon shrugged, "That, I don't know, Zoe."

"Should we even go then?" Tommy eyed the map wearily now.

"I say we go." Koji speaking up brought attention him.

Koji and Amelia though shared a look. The knowing look that they shared was noticed by Meredith and Zoe.

"Why? We don't know what awaits us there." J.P. couldn't help but question Koji.

"What do you two know that we don't?" Meredith asked the question before Koji could respond to J.P.

"Something similar happened when we first arrived – we were led to my Spirit that time." Koji's words surprised the group.

Amelia looked from Koji and to her D-Tector, "While it did lead to his Spirit, it also lead us to you guys while you needed help. Either could be a coincident, so there's a chance that it's pointing to my Beast Spirit or to someone who really needs our help."

"We need to go either way then." Kyle was smiling – clearly up for going.

"Alright, we have our next destination," Takuya looked to Meredith, "You good for moving or do you need some more time to recover?"

Meredith smiled, "Let's go."

"The Renamon Village is within walking distance so there is no need to wait for another Trailmon to come through." The Corealmon words solved a problem they hadn't even thought of.

Meredith turned to the Corealmon, "Thank you for everything you've done for us."

The group chorused out in thanks after that – their actions made the Corealmon smile. The group set out after gathering their stuff – different Corealmon wished them a safe journey as they left. Directions were left to Bokomon since he wanted to be in charge – Koji and Amelia didn't bother tell him that they had figured the map out before on their own.

"Takuya, can I ask you a question?" Meredith kept her voice down so Takuya would be the only one who heard her.

"Something wrong?" Takuya responded quickly, worried now.

"No, it's just," Meredith hesitated, "I don't really remember what happened when I Beast Spirit Evolved. I was, wondering if you could tell me what I was like."

Takuya hummed and looked ahead of them once again – not before noticing how Meredith looked worried. The others were talking amongst themselves – wondering about what was going on in the Renamon Village or if Amelia would get her Beast Spirit now. Amelia though was quiet and looking at her feet as she walked.

"Well, you were able to handle the BlackWereGarurumon like a pro. You didn't attack anyone besides them, if that's what you were asking." Meredith let out a sigh of relief at Takuya's words, which the gogglehead also noticed. Was she worried about injuring her friends?

"Sirenamon had really cool wings and that tail was awesome!" Takuya's excitement made Meredith smile.

Takuya smiled widely, "Sirenamon was really beautiful too!"

"Really?" The question slipped from Meredith due to surprise.

"Yeah, she's different than the other Beast Spirits." The smile that Takuya while talking about Sirenamon made Meredith feel a twinge of sadness. She shouldn't feel like this. Takuya was just admiring Sirenamon; it's no big deal.

'What's going on? Takuya's just talking about my Beast Spirit, why do I feel, sad?' Meredith looked away from Takuya, but here he was talking about how pretty she was. He never told her how pretty she was.

"Her blue hair was pretty and shinier too." Those words struck Meredith a bit harder. He never complimented her hair. Maybe become Sirenamon was the worst thing she'd ever done! Takuya should be complimenting her, not her Beast Spirit!

The redhead frowned, 'I kind of regret asking him now.'

"Also – wait, is something wrong, Meredith?" Meredith quickly shook her head at Takuya's worried question. Oh, great he noticed! Quick, pretend not to care!

"Nope!" She forced a smile – which Takuya seemed to buy.

Takuya turned from Meredith and looked towards the others. He took notice of how everyone was eying Amelia wearily. Meredith dropped the forced smile once her friend's attention was off of her.

The goggle girl bit her lip, 'What if Takuya likes me better as Sirenamon? No, Sirenamon isn't even actually me, so, what if he likes Sirenamon better period?'

Kyaromon who was trotting along beside Amelia eyed her worriedly. Amelia had her hands tucked into her pockets and kept chewing on her lip. Kyaromon wasn't the only one who took notice of her current mood – the whole group noticed it, but had silently agreed to let her be, figured she might need some time to herself since she had bailed on them earlier on to be on her own.

"What's wrong, Melia?" Kyaromon's question got a glance from Amelia, but she looked back to her feet a couple seconds later.

"Thinking about some things. Don't worry about me." Amelia's words only made Kyaromon frown.

"What's on your mind?" Zoe asked the question as she sped up so was walking besides Amelia.

"Yeah, if you need help we can help." Kyle's offer made Amelia flinch.

Amelia lifted her head and gave a smile, "It's nothing guys, don't worry."

"If that's not the fakest smile I've seen in awhile." Kyle's callout made Amelia stop. Was she that obvious? No, she could pull through. No need to talk about it. Just act like nothing's wrong.

"Why don't you tell us what's wrong?" Meredith pushed the issue.

"Nothing, drop it." Amelia's harsh tone caused them to flinch back.

"There is definitely something wrong." J.P. gulped when Amelia leveled him with a look.

Amelia opened her mouth as if she was going to yell, but she closed her mouth. After taking a deep breath she turned on her heel and just began to walk away. Out of surprise no one said anything – they just watched Amelia stalk off.

"Uh, did we say something?" Tommy asked the question that everyone was thinking.

"I think we did." Takuya spoke up, confused.

"I think it's something about help." Everyone looked at Koji.

"Why do you say that?" While Zoe asked the question Kyaromon took off, trying to catch up with Amelia.

Koji thought for a moment before shaking his head – he didn't know if Amelia would want the others to know his thought. Her reaction was leaning to her not wanting the others to know.

"Just a feeling." Koji started walking after that.

Kyle crossed his arms, "So, he knows more than he's telling."

"How do you know what he knows?" Neemon asked it as he looked at Kyle.

"Do you think something happened when they were together earlier maybe?" Zoe asked the question hesitantly.

Meredith crossed her arms, "Maybe we should leave them alone – let them figure it out if something did happen between them."

"Yeah well, Amelia didn't seem up to talk about it and I don't know about you, but I don't feel Koji is one to apologize." With those words Takuya started to walk.

"We all know he isn't one to apologize – we saw that back before he joined the group." Zoe rolled her eyes as she remembered back then.

"You have to admit though, Koji does have a soft spot for Amelia." J.P. made the comment as the whole group started to walk again.

"I still think that Koji and Amelia would make a cute couple." Kyle's words received some snickers. They totally agreed with that.

Meanwhile Amelia was walking through what had went from a few trees to a forest. Even if she knew that it wasn't a good idea to have stormed off on her own, she wasn't stopping. She would just reach the village and wait there for everyone. If push comes to shove, Amelia could find her Beast Spirit on her own. She won't approach it just wait for everyone else. Then again… that was reckless of her to leave so suddenly.

Amelia sighed, "Maybe I shouldn't have blown up like that."

Amelia reached up and ran a hand through her scarlet hair, stopping as well. Her shoulders fell and she glanced back, seeing nobody at all. Seeing that no one was behind her caused a frown to cross her face.

"Bad temper, maybe Kei was right." A dark laugh followed Amelia's muttered words.

"Why though?"

"They just wanted to help and I snapped at them." Only after Amelia answered the question did she realize that she didn't know who had asked it.

"Who's there?" Amelia called the question out.

"A friendly voice that's been called a whole bunch of things. You can call me whatever you want to – people always love giving me different names. They all say my name is too odd so they change it." The response caused Amelia to give a sad smile.

She looked for the source of the voice, "I bet you have a wonderful name – people are just unappreciative of some things."

"Really?! What's your name?" The voice sounded as if it was behind her so Amelia turned – there was nothing there.

"My name," Amelia paused, "is Neo Chasen. Everyone calls me Amelia though."

"Neo, I like that name! It means new!" Amelia was taken aback – the voice was so excited.

"Ah I know! Neo, you're my friend now! You're my new friend!" The laughter that bubbled out of nowhere made Amelia smile slightly.

She gave up looking for the source of the voice, "You sure seem excited to call me your friend."

"Of course! I don't have many friends. The few friends that I have are all spread out. I haven't seen them in years," The voice grew quieter, "I miss my friends."

"What happened?" Amelia asked – the fact that it sounded so sad made her feel a bit sad, something seem to draw her to the voice. She couldn't help but be curious about the voice.

"We were helping others and I wanted to save them – instead of letting them help me so we could go back together I chose to trade myself for them." Amelia's heart dropped hearing that.

'This, this a ghost. This Digimon, they died.' Amelia gulped hard – not sure what to think.

"If you're a Digimon, why didn't you return to an Egg?" she asked the question hesitantly.

'Sorcermon reverted to an egg when he got defeated by the Demon Lords so it should've become an Egg as well, right?' Amelia's gut tightened – almost afraid of the answer.

"I shielded my friends from the wrong attack you could say – it damaged my data and I wasn't able to become an egg." Amelia's heart ached hearing that.

Amelia though was a bit surprised when in front of her a transparent fox appeared. The fox was sitting down and it's brown tails that had specks of green were laid on the ground. It's green eyes were lying flat and dark green eyes were downcast, staring at the ground. Tears escaped it's eyes as well. The transparent fox disappeared as fast as it appeared.

"I don't regret saving my friends – I just wish I had accepted help when they offered it to me. They offered me help long before that battle but I thought by shouldering it all that I was strong and that I was helping them by shouldering it by myself." Amelia curled her hands into fists hearing that.

"You were strong though. You were able to handle it on your own. You helped them to." Amelia spoke the words – a sort of desperation in her voice.

Amelia closed her eyes, 'By not burdening others they don't suffer or get dragged down. Standing through things on your own is strong – you're strong enough to stand despite the weight and keep moving on while backing up those you care for. You don't add more to their struggle or problems if you handle it on your own.'

"No, I was just too weak to admit that I needed help. I caused them more problems by worrying them. I caused more issues to them because they were my friends – they were worried about me which distracted them." It spoke – stressing it's words.

"People only help to make themselves feel better – they want to feel like they did what they could so they don't feel guilty later on when people ultimately fail or suffer more." Amelia's words were biting.

"Friends, they care about you though. Friends should want the best for you – they should be the people that you can rely on no matter what." At their words Amelia opened her eyes.

"They fight by your side." The assertion made her mind go over by the battles the group has fought together.

"They protect you when you're weak." Amelia's wandered back to the Corealmon Village – Lobomon protecting her from the BlackWereGarurumon's attack.

"They save you from your stupid decisions even if they seem smart at the moment." The voice laughed slightly but Amelia remembered the stunts she had pulled before getting her Spirit.

"They care about you enough to notice something is wrong – even if you may try to act like nothing is wrong. Those you spoke of before that only do it to feel good, they'd leave it alone if you insist nothing is wrong." Amelia said and just let herself flop to the ground.

"How do you know you can trust someone though? My friends use me, tease me and just talk when they want to." Amelia bit her lip – trying not to think about her friends in the real world. Whoever's speaking talks about friendship as if it's a traitorous act. Those who become friends only backstab each other. That's not what true friends do!

"Those people aren't friends then. If they'd do that then they're not friends of yours. Those the people you should cut out of your life – find some real friends. Like the group you were with before you ran off." The last part surprised Amelia.

"How did you know I wasn't talking about them, let alone know about them?" Amelia was surprised.

'How long has it been, watching me?' The thought unsettled her actually.

"I live around here and since you're approaching my home I watched you and your group. There's been enough trouble around here recently that I don't want any more trouble coming." While Amelia relaxed hearing the words she was confused.

'Live? So, is it not a ghost? Maybe it reverted to an In-Training and is stuck at In-Training? Maybe it's ability is to turn invisible so it can stay safe?' Amelia hummed and tilted her head slightly.

"I followed you because I was worried – you reminded me of myself. Refusing help from people who care about you. Your reason is bound to be very different than my own but I can't count how many times I went off on my own because I couldn't stand all the offer of help. I felt like they were either looking down at me or that I was just becoming a burden on. I never wanted either to ever be true." Amelia was surprised because following the words it felt like something brushed against her cheek – as if someone was using her knee to stand taller.

It felt like a small fox was using her knee to be taller so it could brush its head on her cheek. As if a small fox was trying to comfort her.

"Thank you." Amelia muttered the words softly.

"I'd do anything for a friend – especially a friend I would hate to see walk down the path I chose. It's a lonely road believe it or not. Eventually the so called strength turns others off and you're left alone because you're hard headed and unwilling to let others in. So unwilling that they decide it isn't worth the effort." The weight vanished soon after the words were spoken.

"By the time I made my choice there was only one from my group that truly still called me their friend – he was quite a the prickly Digimon. He wasn't much of a fan of others – some thought that he liked being my friend because I never burdened him with my issues but I knew how much he wished that I'd share my burdens with him." Amelia was taken aback by how distant the voice sounded suddenly.

"Even if I was lucky that relationship was strained and barely there. It's that relationship that I regret losing the most – he's the one I miss the most. If I had the chance, I'd go back and tell all to him at least." The last words were barely auditable.

"I'll listen." Amelia spoke the words even though she knew the words wouldn't reach her new, friend.

"I'm a good listener – not so much of a speaker." Amelia's words were only heard by the trees – the owner of the voice was gone.

"Perhaps, I should open up a bit more. Alicia might be right that it's time to lean on others." Amelia stood as she muttered the words.

Stop trying to do things you know you can't do – Koji had said those words to Amelia back when she had drawn Woodmon's attention from Sakanamon. Koji had all but repeated those words later on after she first got her Spirit.

'I could do it though because I knew he had my back. I knew I could do it because I wasn't alone. Maybe, I need to start applying that knowledge to things other than just those situations.' Amelia drew out her D-Tector as she thought, the map popped up on its own.

"You there!" The shout caused Amelia to jump.

On instinct Amelia spun and Fractal Code had appeared around her hand. She stopped herself before going through with the Spirit Evolution, but her heart pounded. She stared at the mostly yellow bipedal fox – white ran up the center of its body and fluffed out around it's throat. On its legs were purple markings that looked like a spaced out yin-yang symbol. The fox wore purple arm warmers that bore an actual yin-yang symbol on them.

"Who are you?" The fox watched Amelia as it called out it's question.

"Amelia Chasen – who are you?" The girl wasn't letting the Fractal Code fade away since she wasn't sure what would happen in the next few moments.

"I am Renamon." Amelia wanted to relax hearing that, but she wouldn't.

Amelia relaxed her stance slightly, "Well Renamon, I mean you no harm."

"State your business then." Renamon approached her. The tall fox digimon stood her ground. Amelia could understand the motion. She needs to approach this rationally.

Amelia froze, 'What am I supposed to say? I don't have any clue of the situation around here.'

"Calm down, look at the Device in her hand. She's with the ones that arrived at the village – she's their lost friend." Amelia was taken aback by the words that a newly arrived Renamon spoke.

"These woods can be disorientating, we should be returning to the village before the Alraumon make a reappearance." The Renamon that emerged and spoke for her turned with their words.

Amelia stood still though and watched as the two Renamon started to head back into the woods that she had been facing away from moments ago. The Fractal Code around her hand faded away since there was no real danger. Shaking her head, Amelia rushed to catch up with the Renamon – the trees they passed all looked the same but seemed far healthier than trees she usually saw.

"Who had you been talking to? One of the Viximon heard talking and rushed to tell us so I came." The Renamon that initially confronted her asked the question.

"I, I don't know who it was. It started to talk to me and before I knew it I was conversing with it." Amelia divulged the truth, uncertain if it was a good idea or not.

The Renamon that had appeared second stopped, "What did the Digimon look like?"

"It was a fox, but it wasn't bipedal like you two." The two Renamon glanced at each other.

"Can you describe it better?" Amelia nodded slowly.

"It was small and brown with green ears – it had deep green eyes as well." Amelia's words confused the Renamon.

"There are no Digimon that match that description in our village or around these parts – it's mostly us and the Alraumon." Amelia bit her lips at the words. She was on thin ice. How could they not know what the Warrior of Wood was describing?

"That does sound similar to what the elder described though – she might've seen the Protector." The Renamon's friends laughed slightly. They way she said it is like a kid saying they have an imaginary friend. This peaked Amelia's interest, though. If she did met the protector, what was it doing talking to her?

"No human would've seen the Protector – you can dismiss that thought. Let's return so the humans can make their choice – they insisted on waiting until the last one here was with them." The first Renamon spoke the words rather harshly as it turned and walked away.

"Forgive him, the situation with the Alraumon has drained him quite a bit. He doesn't sleep much and is always on watch." The Renamon that apologized to her followed after his friend.

Amelia chose not to say anything and instead just followed them. Amelia was lead to the village that belonged to the Renamon rather quickly, her guides certainly knew the forest. The trees around and in the village was spaced out enough that there were some houses built within the trees with walkways connecting them yet there was enough room on the ground for houses and stuff as well to be built. In the center of the village was a massive tree that reached higher than any other – the tree had a hole towards the bottom though that was natural. There were stakes driven into the ground with rope, cording the area off seemingly. The tree itself had a rope tied around it with charms a ways up – it reminded Amelia of the sacred trees she had seen and heard of.

Following the Renamon past the huge tree, Amelia was lead to what appeared to be the town square. In the town square were the others. Seeing them, the girl stopped – a part of worried about what they would do when they saw her.

'Are they going to be like Kei and the others?' Just that thought made her grimace.

"Amelia!" When Koji out of everyone shouted her name she jumped.

Everyone turned to look and to their surprise and confusion Amelia actually took a step backwards. Her arms were pulled to her chest and in that moment she looked absolutely ready for anything. At first glance it might've appeared to be a fighting stance but combined with the look on her face it was more of a stance caused by fear. Why would she be afraid enough to be in a defense position?

"H-hey guys." Amelia bit her lip unhappy about having tripped over her words.

"Why'd you go off like that?!" Tommy rushed to her.

Zoe approached, "Yeah, you had us worried about you!"

Amelia just stared at them, stunned. They were worried about her? They have bigger things to worry about than her.

"And, uh, I don't know what I said, but I'm sorry." J.P.'s words surprised her.

Kyle offered a smile, "Yeah, we shouldn't have pushed you."

Amelia hung her head but smiled softly. Tucking her hands into her pockets she closed her eyes and breathed in deeply. She has such great friends.

'This is new.' The thought caused an hesitant smile to cross Amelia's face.

"So, as promised we'll hear you out now that Amelia's with us." Meredith's words brought Amelia out of her thoughts.

"What did I miss?" Amelia was worried now.

"Nothing really, the Renamon need our help with something, but until we knew you were safe we asked them to wait." Amelia was taken aback by Takuya's words. They wanted to wait for her? Was she that important to the team?

"Were you guys, that worried about me?" she asked the question uncertain.

Amelia bit her lip, 'No way they were – I'm not that important. We're trying to gather the Spirits so they probably just want to make sure my Spirit doesn't fall into the hands of the Demon Lords. I hope they don't misunderstand me and think that I think that I'm so super important person.'

"You're our friend, so of course we're going to worry about you." The fact that Kyle spoke those words without hesitance made Amelia freeze up.

"You also have a habit of trying to do things that you can't do, alone at least." Koji spoke up and to their confusion, Amelia laughed softly.

"I assume that your problem stems from the Alraumon that was mentioned while I was being guided here." Amelia changed the subject – not wanting to talk about herself any more.

"Yes, your assumption would be correct. We would greatly appreciate it if you Warriors would help us." The Renamon knelt on a knee – surprising the two who had escorted Amelia along with the Warriors.

"While we may be stronger than the Alraumon, they are able to draw strength from nature itself and we do not wish to harm them. We wish that we could reach an agreement peacefully but they will not accept any of our peace offerings and they insist on fighting us. They continue to attack us and we only fight to protect ourselves." The kneeling Renamon kept its head down, a fist rested on the ground.

"Why not fight back since they keep attacking you?" Takuya asked the question on reflex. That does plausible. If the process keeps repeating itself, they should've act.

"We fear that the Alraumon may be being influenced by Cherubimon because it was only recently that they escalated from taking things and hiding them in the forest. The attacks have only started recently and we don't want to attack them and cause them any pain if they're not doing this of their own will but being forced to do this. Most of the previous actions are like the actions of childish siblings who throw tantrums when they don't get their way – there was never any real vicious intent behind it." Everyone stared at the Renamon.

Bokomon stepped forwards, "What do you expect us to do if it's not a fight you want?"

Renamon raised its head, "You were brought here by the Protector, so we believe that you may be able to reach them. Our cries have been answered in the form of your group. Your group might be able to break the hold that Cherubimon may have over them."

"The Protector?" Meredith questioned it.

Amelia's mind wandered back to the voice she had heard while in the forest alone. Her mind wandered to the phantom she had seen for a brief second.

'Did I meet their Protector?' Amelia remembered that one of the Renamon that had guided her said.

"Speaking of the Protector, this Warrior," One of the guide Renamon gestured to Amelia, "may have actually seen and heard the Protector when she was in the forest alone."

The kneeling Renamon stared at Amelia with eyes of awe and hope. Her group though stared at her either confused or surprised. Granted Kyle looked a bit skeptical.

"What message did the Protector give to you?" The kneeling Renamon bowed its head once more, awaiting Amelia's response.

"I, I'm not sure if it was your Protector. We're not familiar with the area so I don't know the Protector you speak of." Amelia spoke the words in hope of shifting the subject – she did not want to lie but she did not want to speak of the conversation she had with the 'Protector'.

"Allow me to tell of the Great Protector then." The words flowed out of the kneeling Renamon without hesitation.

"It is the least we can do if your group will help us." The Renamon that had gestured to her spoke while the other walked away.

"History lesson, yeah." J.P. sounded unenthused but Zoe hit his arm. History wasn't going to kill anyone. It's not like school and their boring teachers.

"Be nice! We'd be happy to hear the story." Zoe was quick to speak up – even though besides her only Amelia really seemed interested in hearing the story of the Protector.

"You should all take a seat, it may be a long story depending on the knowledge that you hold of this world." Taking the advice to heart they all sat – gathering around the now sitting instead of kneeling Renamon.

"I'll leave them in your hands, I'll return to patrols." With that the other Renamon left.

"The Great Protector has taught us many things – survival and arboriculture among the many things we were taught. The Protector has been here longer than any Digimon in the area – according to legend the Protector predates this very forest. We believe that the Protector may have created this forest seeing as how attached it is to this place." The Renamon paused and folded its hand in its lap.

"The tree?" Amelia questioned it, gesturing with her head to the huge tree that bore charms tied upon it.

"The Sacred Tree – it's the oldest tree in this forest. The seeds for the forest all came from that tree and despite it not being a fruit bearing tree, it has borne fruit before when those live here in the forest needed food to eat. No matter what has happened the tree has stood – when this clan was attacked, the tree had glowed and seemed to come alive. It protected us and since it was passed down and known as the Sacred Tree. It is the home of the Protector and seems to act as a medium at times." The words blew the Warriors away.

"Do you know who the Protector is?" Tommy's question caused a silence to fall over the group.

The Renamon sat still and stared at its hands. Its tail gave away its thoughtful state. No one interrupted the moment and was waiting patiently for the answer.

"The Protector, there are theories and legends as to the identification of the Protector. We have no concrete proof as to the identity of the Protector. The Protector was a strong Digimon when it walked the land. From what we have learned from the land and the moments, the Protector grows reflective while we can hear we have learned that the Protector fought in battles while it lived. Besides that there is nothing concrete we know." Renamon gave a sad sigh.

"We wish we knew more so we could better honor the Protector. It has protected us and offered help in any form it could. It has poured out to us such great blessings yet we know so little about it." When the Renamon finished it looked to Amelia, "That is why I ask you what it told you."

Amelia took a deep breath, "I was told that it sacrificed its life to save its friends. The attack that shielded its friends from damaged its code and stopped it from reforming as a DigiEgg, which has caused it to remain a mere phantom of the past. It just wants to help others in any way it can."

"You are the first outsider to hear the Protector's voice – the first not from this clan of Renamon to have heard its voice since the Forest Battle that transpired a few generations ago that saw the feud between the different species here in the forest." Amelia was surprised to hear that. What could it mean?

"Why would Amelia hear the voice though?" Kyle beat Amelia herself to the question.

"That's not a question I have the answer to." The Renamon responded after a few seconds.

Amelia looked to the Sacred Tree, 'The Protector saw itself in me, I reminded it of itself. It wanted to help me because of similarities that it saw.'

"The Protector has also advised us not to harm others that live in the forest, said that there was more at work in the darkness than what we saw. The Protector assured us that if we remained true to our ways, then nothing bad would befall us – said that help would come. With that though, we're back to you eight Warriors." Renamon finished off – sounding serious.

"News has traveled about humans that are able to turn into Digimon – taking on the forms of the Legendary Warriors by use of Spirit Totems that were left behind. We heard that they were able to help Breezy Village and that your group even managed to save the ever peaceful Corealmon from their troubles with the BlackWereGarurumon Twins that have plagued them for months now." The Renamon shifted and was once again kneeling.

"I would like to humbly ask that you great Warriors help this village. Our ideals of not wishing to fight has made us suffer and tempted us to fight. Many of my own friends have been turned into DigiEggs or have grown sick due to the Alraumon. We may have the strength to fight and could be considered cowards for not fighting, but we don't want to fight the Alraumon that generations ago had been our friends and lived in this very village alongside of us." To their surprise tears leaked from Renamon's eyes.

"Why did the fight begin?" Koji asked the question but the Renamon remained silent.

"You have to tell us if you want our help." Takuya pressed the issue.

"I fear you may judge us if you know the reason – it's quite silly." Renamon hung its head further if possible.

"If there is the possibility of Cherubimon being behind it, any silly reason might have been multiplied in last straw." Renamon gulped at Zoe's word.

"Us Renamon have cared and tended to this land through what the Protector has taught us since the first heard the Protector's voice. The soil is rich and prime for any plant life that is planted and the Protector helps us to make sure that we tended to the trees and plants so they grow fully and properly. The Alraumon feed from what they are able to draw from soil through their feet like roots." Renamon spoke slowly.

Tommy tilted his head, "Why not just allow them to feed?"

"That is a simple answer to the feud." Kyle stated the words as he remembered how expansive the forest had been. The feud would've been dealt before they arrived in the DigiWorld.

Renamon looked dead at Kyle, "It is far from simple. At first they fed off of the soil, but then they drew drunk from the energy that flowed in the soil you could say. They were changed and grew obsessed. They stole too much from the ground and caused plants to wither and die – trees started to die as well. We tried to be nice – we tried to explain what they were doing to the forest we all call home but they would not listen to reason. They didn't care, their desire for the energy was killing the forest."

"They must be feeding where they are now, so why is the forest not dying still?" Amelia spoke up quickly when she noticed the oddity of it.

Renamon looked to Amelia, "The energy flows from the Sacred Tree and the farther from it you are, the weaker the energy is. Their feast was choking the energy supply to the rest of the forest. They want this land around the tree so they can feast once more, but they will kill this forest if they get this land in their possession."

"That's a problem." Meredith made the remark as she looked to her lap, to a currently sleeping DemiVeemon.

"What can we do to help though?" Takuya asked the question sounding as clueless as he felt.

"It grows late – let me go and have arrangements made for food and shelter. I shall see what information we have and share it with you as well for help in figuring out what to do to help us, if you choose to accept our plea." With those words Renamon stood and turned skillfully on its heel before stalking off deeper into the village.

"Before we even think about how to help, we need to figure out why Amelia heard this Protector thing." Kyle interjected quickly. He sure went straight to the point.

"It makes sense I heard it actually since it deals so heavily with nature, trees especially." All eyes turned to Amelia.

"Why do you say that?" Tommy asked it and Amelia sighed. How can they not see this? It's pretty obvious.

"I'm the Warrior of Wood – my Spirit connects me to nature and trees so if a spirit who dwells in both is able to speak to me, I'm not surprised. It may have been able to draw power from me somehow." Bokomon nodded at her words.

"Amelia does have a point – the Warrior of Wood was the most in tune with nature since nature gives birth to Wood." It grew quiet at Bokomon's words.

The silence was one of thought. Amelia didn't miss the fact that now that Renamon was done talking and gone that eyes kept finding their way to her. Amelia was aware that everyone kept looking to her – she could practically hear the questions they were dying to ask her. She would applaud their ability to stop themselves from questioning her behavior earlier though.

"So, are we going to try and help?" J.P. spoke, breaking the silence once he grew unable to stand it any longer.

"I say we do. Perhaps we might be able to solve the issue by scanning some kind of Fractal Code like we were able to at Breezy Village." Zoe wore a confident smile as she spoke.

"Or maybe Sakanamon has a trick up her sleeve since we're dealing with plants – water is needed for plants to grow after all." Meredith added in.

Takuya nudged Meredith, "Sirenamon as well – her possibilities are unknown at the moment really. She's bound to have something." Great, he had to bring her up.

"Seeing the Alraumon started to change after drawing energy from the Sacred Tree pretty much this might be a job for Legnamon," Koji looked to Amelia, "you up to that Amelia?"

Amelia nodded, "Yeah. Perhaps it's because I'm the Warrior of Wood, but I feel like I have to help."

"Well, that's settled then. We're helping the Renamon out with Meredith and Amelia being the core of the plan." Takuya grinned widely as he made the declaration.

"How I'm pleased to hear that." The group jumped at the sudden intrusion.

"Forgive me, I did not mean to scare you." The owner of the voice came from the nine tailed fox that walked at the side of the Renamon who had filled them in.

"I am Kyubimon, the elder of this village you could say. On behalf of the village I extend my gratitude for the help that you will offer." Kyubimon lowered itself on its front paws, in a bow like stance.

"Food is on us and there is a hut being prepared for your group – there is a storm coming that will arrive soon after nightfall." The sudden weather update was a tad alarming since not only had they not witnessed a storm in the Digital World yet but the sun was starting its descent.

The group chorused out various words of gratitude together. Kyubimon laughed though as he stood and Renamon merely shook its head.

"There's no need to thank us – you're going to help us so it's only right to offer resources to you Warriors to use. It would be indecent of us to receive help from you but do nothing to for you." The matter of fact tone that Kyubimon took with those words did surprise a few of them.

Renamon glanced back, "The food is here."

Various Viximon came into sight carrying baskets of fruit balanced on their heads. They worked together to carry the two large baskets that they carried and the fruit within the baskets had a wide spread. Two Renamon followed after the Viximon though – one carried a basket of steaming potatoes and the other carried a basket of familiar looking apples.

"Eat to your heart's content, we have plenty more food." Kyubimon spoke the words as the baskets were sat down.

It was a small mess as everyone tried to grab at what they wanted – also trying to figure out what things were. A Viximon sat by the baskets though and was answering the questions.

"What's this?" J.P. held up a brown pear like fruit.

"You have a chance of any kind of bean." Viximon smiled.

J.P. sat the Bean Pear down, "Thanks."

"This?" Meredith pointed at a white apple shaped fruit.

"You have a chance for any flavor of sweet." Everyone stared at the Sweets Apple.

Before any of the Warriors to grab it though it was stolen by DemiVeemon who quickly bit into it. After a second of collective let down, they laughed and most ended up picking up a Meat Apple or the Meal Potatoes.

"What's a Meal Potato?" Kyle asked the Viximon – no one had bitten into it yet.

"Well it's a three course meal usually – you break it into thirds and you have three different courses. Each third tastes different." Hearing the explanation floored the group.

"How filling is it?" Amelia asked it as she picked one up now that she had a good idea why there seemed to be lines sectioning the potato off.

Viximon smiled at Amelia, "Depends on your appetite I think – it usually fills me up, but I've seen some Renamon eat two or three before, and I've seen some eat one and be full as well. Maybe it depends on the meal it is."

As everyone settled down together to eat whatever they had chosen conversation was steered away from the issues that the Renamon was having. The conversation didn't turn back to the Demon Lords either. Happy banter just passed between the group to past the time.

"I wanted the Sweet Apple." J.P. brought it up once again when he saw that DemiVeemon was still eating it in small bites.

Kyle nudged J.P., "Should've been faster to grab it then buddy."

"I didn't think he'd just swipe it like that! Should he even be eating it as dinner, he's still a child and candy isn't dinner." J.P. directed the last bit towards Meredith.

"The Sweets Apples are rather nutritious despite what they are flavored." The Viximon cut in yet everyone watched since it had another Sweets Apple balanced on its head.

"Can I have that one?!" J.P. pretty much shouted it – which caused everyone to laugh.

"This one is from my secret stash." Thanks to those words, everyone expected the Viximon to eat the Sweets Apple, but instead, it carefully rolled the apple off of its head once to Kyaromon.

Viximon smiled, "I brought this one for you!"

Kyaromon grinned seeing the Sweets Apple, "Thanks!"

Abandoning the dull Meal Potato, Kyaromon started to dig into the Sweet Apple. Amelia smiled slightly and ruffled his head between his ears. Glancing around at the others she saw that Meredith was talking to Kyle despite sitting beside Takuya. The redhead was giving short answers to Takuya when he tried to talk to her, much to the gogglehead's confusion. Zoe was trying to coax Koji into a conversation while Tommy and J.P. were talking – well Tommy was listening to whatever J.P. was talking about. DemiVeemon was reveling in his almost gone Sweets Apple and Kyaromon was conversing with the Viximon between bites of their food.

Standing quietly Amelia began to walk away from everyone with her head hung. While she thought that she managed to sneak away from the group without anyone noticing Koji had noticed. Zoe was fully tuned out at that point and he watched as Amelia drew farther and farther away from the group. She came to a stop in front of the Sacred Tree.

"With what's ahead I should tell them. I should open up to them, shouldn't I?" Amelia asked the question to no one as she tucked her hands into her pockets.

"You should." The girl stiffened hearing Koji suddenly speak. Gawd, the guy could be a part time ninja.

"Why aren't you with the others?" Amelia asked the question without looking to the bandana boy.

Koji stepped up beside her, "I know something is wrong with you." He definitely did notice.

"Why would you care though?" Amelia's tone was serious yet there was a pained edge to it.

"We're friends, aren't we?" Koji asked the question and it remained quiet.

Amelia didn't say anything but her eyes dropped to the ground. Her mind went over what the Protector had said about friends.

Amelia gulped, "Yeah."

"You've been around me long enough to know that I'm not good with people so I won't push you to open up – knowing me I'd probably end up hurting you. Talk to someone though – Takuya and Kyle seem better with people." Koji's words made Amelia's shoulders drop.

"What if I wanted to talk to you?" Amelia was surprised when the words slipped out of her mouth – she hadn't meant to speak her thought aloud. Why did she say that out loud?! He'll probably think she's weird.

"I'll listen and," Koji paused, "try to help." At least he didn't rejected.

When Amelia shifted at 'help' Koji sighed. He knew for certain then that he was right earlier. Help was a touchy subject with Amelia.

"I'm not very good with help." Amelia kept her voice down but Koji heard.

He glanced at her, "Can I ask why?"

Amelia took a deep breath, 'Do I tell him? How would I even begin to explain everything?'

"You don't have to tell me." Koji spoke after it remained silent for a couple of moments.

Amelia rocked on her heels, "I don't really know how to explain it. I don't want to be a burden on anyone so I'd hate to tell all and drag people down or make them worry about me. I'm just, used to being on my own."

"But you said you have a sister, right?" Amelia nodded.

"Alicia," Amelia smiled, "we're always together but that's not what I mean Koji."

Her smile faded slowly. The more Amelia thought about her sister the heavier her heart got. The more she realized that she wasn't even sure what Alicia was doing.

'Did mom even take Alicia with her to auntie's house, or is she sitting home alone?' That realization was a punch to the gut to Amelia.

"What did you mean then?" Amelia chewed on her lip at the question.

"Um, well. It's hard to explain really – for me at least." Amelia paused and ran a hand through her scarlet hair.

"My parents, they work a lot. My father is rarely ever home and my mother is never at home unless it's for sleep." Amelia looked to the side – her hair slipping and shadowing her face.

"My parents haven't really ever raised me or my sister. The earlier memory I have is of a babysitter they hired to watch me. Once I started school though they didn't feel like I needed a babysitter anymore, so I was by myself and left on my own." Out of nervous habit Amelia scratched the back of her head.

"Alicia was born when I was five and they hired the babysitter again until she started school when I was seven almost eight. The babysitter was dismissed again and I was told that Alicia was my charge then." Amelia shifted on her feet, uneasy.

"What do your parents do?" Koji asked the question surprised.

"My father is a big shot at some company while my mother is an engineer. I'm used to having to do everything on my own. I'm used to no one helping me." Amelia gave a nervous laugh.

'That took a lot to admit.' Amelia resisted the urge to look to Koji.

"What about your friends?" The girl failed to keep the laugh in when the question slipped out of Koji. The bandana boy didn't understand why she kept laughing. It wasn't even that funny, nor is a joking matter.

"Friends? The only two 'friends' I have are twins, Kei and Rei. Kei loves to harass and tease me – he found out one of my fears and has used it against me since he found out. Rei is so certain that I'm ugly and always wants to dress me up like a doll. She even stole one of my drawings to enter a contest and claimed it as hers – won as well." Thinking about those two made her angry but it hurt as well.

Koji looked away from Amelia, "No wonder you reacted the way you did – you're really not used to people wanting to help because they care, are you?"

"People have only ever helped because they wanted to alleviate guilt. They want to say they did something to avoid guilt when things only got worse." Amelia closed her eyes – surprised that her eyes stung suddenly. How long did she felt like this? This longing chest pain tightening in her chest.

'Why?' She wasn't even sure what she was questioning at that point.

It remained silent as Amelia fought with herself. Koji stood there not sure what to say. He wanted to say something but he didn't know what to say to her. He had no clue what to say and he didn't want to cause her any more issues.

"I uh, do care about you Amelia." Koji spoke finally breaking the silence but his words didn't only break the silence. It felt weird to him. Saying these things to a girl, especially a depressed one.

Those words broke the weak grip Amelia had on the tears that had sprung up. Amelia reached up and placed her hands over her face – her actions drawing Koji's attention. The boy grew uneasy – knowing that she was crying. He gulped – not sure what to do. He wasn't good with people and he was even worse with crying people.

"You're not alone anymore either, if you need to you can lean on me." Koji spoke slowly, a bit awkwardly.

Koji's words had the opposite effect of what he wanted them to have though. Amelia broke down more and she actually sunk to her knees. Koji decided to listen to the tiny whisper in the back of his head. He knelt beside her and after a moment of hesitation he hugged her. Amelia found herself relaxing into the warmth that he let off.

'When was the last time I did this?' Amelia questioned herself as she tried to stop the tears, but it was so hard.

They remained in that position for a couple of minutes. Even when Amelia managed to stop her tears she didn't pull away from Koji – he didn't move either. Both of them were blushing slightly as they started to realize what was going on but neither really minded it.

"Thank you." Amelia whispered the words – not trusting her voice.

Koji didn't say anything. Mostly it was due to the fact that he didn't know what Amelia was thanking him for. He wasn't sure what his words had meant to her or if it was his actions.

"Alicia was the only one who ever comforted me before. The last time someone just let me let it out was probably last year." Amelia spoke the words without thought.

"It might seem wrong coming from me but, you really shouldn't bottle things up." Amelia did laugh at Koji's words because it truly did seem contradictory coming from him.

"If I had more people around, I probably wouldn't. Kei and Rei both tease and laugh at me if I show any hint of, weakness. Alicia gets so worried and she'll go out of her way to make me happy. She sees me as her hero too, so I hate showing her my, weak side. I want her to know that despite how our parents are, it's possible to be happy." Amelia bit her lip to stop herself from babbling.

"No offense but, you don't seem all that happy." The words were soft but Amelia nodded.

"Yeah, most of it is false cheer for her. I'm amazed by Alicia in truth – she's still able to be so happy even after she got kidnapped. Even if she was rescued quickly it was a horrible experience for her – nothing happened besides she got knocked out by hitting her trying to escape the person, they freaked and thought she died so they left her." Amelia swallowed a lump in her throat.

"She's lucky." The girl merely nodded at Koji's word.

"Your parents, how did they react to that? Certainly they spent time with you two after that?" Amelia shook her head.

"They called the hospital – once told she was unharmed they didn't spare a moment to worry, let alone visit her. They chewed me out – punished me to. Insisted I should've kept a better eye on her and said that as the older sister I should've gotten myself kidnapped instead of Alicia." Amelia gave a dark laugh while Koji scowled and pulled back. How could parents leave behind their kids like that? Sure they're busy people, but they should ignore their schedules long enough to be with their children.

Koji's sudden movements caused Amelia to go off balance. She caught herself with her hand on the ground but Koji had also reacted and caught her shoulders. The look on his face was serious though and it caught Amelia off guard – for a moment she was afraid.

"Your parents are," Koji stopped and took a deep breath, "I'm not going there. They're wrong, you know that right?" The thought about how Amelia's parents were barely part of her life made him want to punch something.

Amelia looked off to the side at Koji's words. She refused to meet his eyes and refused to look back to him. She stared at the ground. Koji narrowed his eyes and took another deep breath.

"Amelia." She sighed at the call of her name.

"I should've protected her Koji – my parents are right about that. I know that they aren't completely right, but on that point they are right. That's why I don't hesitate to act when something happens – why I got Woodmon and Daemon's attention. Why I chased after Tommy on my own. Why I charged ahead of everyone when Kyaromon vanished." Amelia's voice quivered.

Koji was going to say more but chose to drop it when Amelia looked back to him. Her grey-blue eyes were tired. In that moment Koji swore she was begging him to just let it drop. He knew that she was done talking about that – he knew she truly was haunted by that day.

"I'll have your back from now on." Koji wasn't sure where those words came from but they made Amelia smile. At least it made her smile; that was an accomplishment for now.

The smile that Amelia gave was different than her others. The smile was bright but vulnerable. It wasn't the tight and strong smile she had shown off. This was the first real smile Koji ever seen her do.

"You're pretty." The moment the words fell from Koji's mouth his cheeks went red – as did Amelia's. Did he really said that? Gawd, why did he say that to a girl?! She probably thinks he's losing his marbles! What does she think about that statement? He wouldn't be surprised if she stands up and leave without looking back. Heck, he'd do that in her shoes.

While Koji was dying from embarrassment Amelia started to laugh. Her laughter carried – airy but embarrass. Both of them were too busy in their reactions to notice the small fox that sat on the stake behind Koji – it was smiling ear from ear as it watched the scene that was playing out before it.

'Embarrassed Koji is rather cute.' Amelia's laughter died the moment she realized what she thought, she blushed a bit harder but she still smiled.

Koji stood, "We should go back to the others." And away from this embarrassing moment.

Amelia nodded and stood, accepting the help that Koji offered her. He didn't look at her through the whole thing though. They had wandered off some time ago. The others were bound to be worried by now. As Koji turned to lead the way back he saw something and he reacted – grabbing Amelia's wrist and pulling her towards him. Purple tipped vines shot past them – through were the girl had been seconds before.

"Who's there!?" Koji shouted it – looking in the direction the attack had not only come from but returned.

Instead of answer there was a small explosion from the area. Debris flew through the air and Koji shielded Amelia on reflex. There were shouts from behind them and Amelia was able to make out the forms of the others rushing towards them but Koji was watching where a battle seemed to be taking place. Everyone stopped – squinting because the Sacred Tree lit up – casting light over the whole village. Thanks to the light it revealed a Renamon facing off against three plants that had purple flowers growing from their head.

"Alraumon!" The Viximon that had come with the others shouted out, scared.

The sole Renamon fighting had fallen back. When the Alraumon looked to the Renamon, the three Alraumon noticed the Warriors and looked at each other. The Alraumon turned and started to run away but the Renamon didn't give chase. A cloud of spurs were left in the wake of the plant Digimon. There was sound that carried across the village – it sounded like a leaf whistle.

Renamon stood from its battle stance, "The ambush was ruined by the Protector so they withdrew."

"Should we go after them?" Zoe asked the question but the Renamon shook its head.

"No, chasing them through the forest at night isn't a good idea. They'll leave traps plus they're able to release spores that are poisonous or able to paralyze someone. If you desire it, we'll lead you guys to their village tomorrow."

"What did we miss?" Kyle's question drew attention to Amelia and Koji.

J.P. whistled, "Yeah, what did we miss?"

Koji released Amelia and they both jumped away from each other. Both of them remained silent but they did share a look for a second. The eye contact didn't last long though. The silence between them didn't go unnoticed by the others – in fact it only made Kyle grin widely. Oh he so DEFINITELY called it. He wasn't going to let this go.

"Well, I think we've have enough excitement for one day. I think we all could use some sleep." Meredith cut in – wanting to help the two who obviously did not want attention.

"Sleep sounds like a great idea!" Amelia's words were quick – obviously just meant to fill the space and to stop questions from being asked.

No questions were asked much to the relief of Amelia and Koji. The group was lead to where they would sleep by Renamon and Viximon. The group did settle in for the night since as they walked back they were all hit by a wave of sleepiness. Unlike the previous night everyone was able to doze off rather easily.

In the morning Koji woke up first. He stayed in the makeshift bed though and just relaxed – took a moment of silence for himself. Surprisingly J.P. woke up next but he just got up and wondered out – wanting to find something to drink. Tommy and Zoe woke up around the same time, they followed the Viximon that came to get everyone for breakfast. Meredith who had been woken up by the movement volunteered to help wake DemiVeemon, Takuya and Kyle up. Bokomon woke up after a gentle nudge from Meredith before turning over and waking Neemon up. Kyaromon awoke at all of the movements so he started to try and wake Amelia up. Amelia though was in a deep sleep.

"Melia? Why aren't you waking up?" Kyaromon was getting worried.

"Isn't she a light sleeper?" Zoe asked it as he approached Amelia and Kyaromon.

"She's probably worn out." Koji's remark gained a glance from everyone.

"Worn out from what?" Tommy asked it but the ponytail boy chose to shrug.

"That's up to her to tell." Koji's words were dismissive in a way – told them not to waste time asking anything more.

"Mm, stop." Amelia's mumbled words caused attention to shift to her.

"Morning sleepy head." The girl's eyes shot open at Koji's sarcastic words.

Amelia blinked a couple of times and noticed how everyone was looking at her. She sat up quickly, shook her head trying to clear the sleep out of it and stood, "Can't someone sleep in?"

"Sure, but breakfast is done – plus we got stuff to do." Meredith spoke as she stepped away from the now awake boys.

After that they went back to where they had dinner the night before. Breakfast had the same options as dinner had so everyone pretty much stuck with what was familiar. Having the same thing as yesterday in the Digital World didn't come with having the same flavor at least.

"How did everyone sleep?" Attention turned to the Renamon that asked the question.

Everyone chorused out some form of fine in response to the question. Renamon smiled at the positive responses before nodding. It picked up a Meat Apple and took a bite since everyone was just finishing up their breakfast.

"So, when do we set out?" Kyle asked it as he finished the Meal Potato he had tried.

"Once you all are ready, we can set out." Renamon's words caused the group to look at each other.

The conversation that they held wasn't verbal. It came with having been together through fights. Without a single word, they gathered how everyone was and they came to an agreement.

"Let's go – let's finish this so everyone can rest easy tonight." Takuya declared the bold words but Renamon grinned.

"Very well, let us go." Renamon turned and began to head in the direction that the Alraumon had fled the night before.

Everyone followed after Renamon, minus the ever present Viximon who was still happily enjoying a Sweets Apple. DemiVeemon was being held by Meredith while Kyaromon had perched on Amelia's shoulder. As they walked Amelia hummed and followed behind everyone – staying towards the back of the group.

'Should I?' The question kept repeating over and over in Amelia's head.

"What are you guys whispering about?" Amelia asked the question when she noticed that they were whispering and kept glancing at her.

"Oh, uh nothing?" J.P. spoke quickly. Like that's not suspicious at all.

Bokomon sighed, "They're worried about you after yesterday – they don't want to set you off though."

"Bokomon!" Tommy's scolding shout didn't effect Bokomon at all.

Amelia sighed and stopped. Everyone slowed to a stop and looked to her. They all kind of waited for what she would do – they didn't know what to expect though. Amelia looked at everyone, but her eyes lingered on Koji before looking to the ground.

"I'm sorry about yesterday." Amelia's sudden apology caught everyone off guard. They weren't expecting an apology and honestly, it's not necessary.

"There's no real need to apology – we pushed you when we shouldn't have." Meredith spoke up once she realized that no one was going to say anything.

"No, it wasn't right for me to snap at you guys like that. All you guys wanted to do was help me – I shouldn't have reacted like that." Amelia shifted on her feet before looking at them – guilt was easily seen on her face.

"What was on your mind then?" Zoe asked the question hesitantly.

"It's a lot of, personal stuff," Amelia looked away, "I'm not good with opening up and telling people things."

Meredith frowned, "You don't have to tell us if you don't want to."

'I didn't like talking about my family to anyone besides Takuya, really.' Meredith looked Amelia over as the thought passed through her mind. The Warrior of Water could relate not sharing any personal informations. The reason she told more to Takuya was because they're really close. Guess in a way, Amelia needed someone who's more comfortable in talking. Like Koji.

"You guys deserve to know some things about me." Amelia might've sounded brave in that moment but she felt far from brave.

Amelia didn't like how much attention was on her so she ducked her head and started to walk, "How about we walk and talk? We have a lot of ground to cover right, Renamon?"

"Indeed we do." Renamon eyed her before turning and starting to lead the way once again.

"Toy Island brought it all on, didn't it?" Takuya's sudden question confused the group.

"Toy Island? What happened there?" J.P. asked it before Amelia could even answer.

"Well besides having to fight some ToyAgumon, Tommy sort of got kidnapped." Takuya gave the short and quick explanation.

"Why would that have brought anything on?" Zoe asked it but Amelia curled her hands into fists.

"My younger sister was kidnapped." Amelia's words made the air tight.

"Oh." That was the only response that Zoe could give.

"My sister and I are always left on our own as well – I'm in charge of her. My parents don't spare any time for Alicia and me – they didn't even change after what happened to Alicia. I'm responsible for her – I have to take care of her and the house. I have to shoulder everything on my own so Alicia doesn't get worried or stressed out. I have no help and no one cares to help besides when they want to alleviate their own guilt." Amelia swallowed hard after her words – surprised she had managed to keep her voice steady throughout the whole thing.

"How old is your sister?" Meredith had hesitated since she wasn't sure how much Amelia wanted to speak off.

Amelia smiled slightly, "She's seven, almost eight now."

"So – why did you react the way you did yesterday?" J.P. asked it and he got a look from the others.

"I'm not used to help. I'm so used to having to do everything on my own or my two so-called friends teasing me endlessly and tearing me down and apart for whatever weakness I show." Amelia rolled her eyes as her mind drifted to her 'friends'.

"Hey, how did Koji know what was wrong yesterday?" Kyle drew attention to it with his question – he also looked to Koji.

"I figured it out – it wasn't that hard. She tried to do things on her own and when I offered help yesterday before we left the Corealmon Village, she bolted the moment she could. She flinched at your offer of help to so I figured it was something about help." Koji's offhanded explanation got a slightly annoyed look from Kyle.

"When did you become an expert on people?" The remark from Kyle did get a slight snicker from J.P., Tommy and Zoe.

Takuya outright laughed at the retort while Koji just shrugged. Though it didn't go unnoticed that he did give a look to Amelia who only shook her head and looked from him. Meredith observed the exchange and even though it was slightly funny she didn't laugh or snicker, her mind stayed on what Amelia had revealed about herself.

"Nemesis Ivy!" The sudden call was accompanied by ivy shooting out the thick bushes.

Everyone jumped at the sudden shout while none of them really had enough time to react. Most hit the deck to dodge the ivy that was aimed at the group. Neemon though reacted too slow so he got caught and was quickly being constricted.

Neemon struggled, "Owie!"

"Let go of him!" Takuya shouted as he drew his D Tector, getting ready for a fight.

Alraumon jumped out of the undergrowth and trees, "Make us!"

"Diamond Storm!" Renamon reacted faster than the Warriors.

The Alraumon were hit back or forced to stop as to dodge the attack. The ivy that held Neemon released him and quickly retreated to wherever it had originated. Taking the opportunity, the Warriors summoned forth the needed Fractal Code and started to scan it.

"Execute: Spirit Evolution!"

"Agunimon!"

"Beetlemon!"

"Kazemon!"

"Kumamon!"

"Lobomon!"

"Sakanamon!"

"Legnamon!"

"Gorumon!"

The Alraumon pretty much froze and just stared in awe at the Warriors. They watched as the Warriors emerged in their Digital Forms. Looking unsettled now the Alraumon shifted and looked over the Warriors. No move was made to attack from either side – the Warriors didn't want to cause unnecessary harm.

"Get her!" The sudden shout that erupted from an Alraumon that came barreling out of the thick shrubbery confused everyone.

Kazemon, Sakanamon and Legnamon all went on guard though seeing as they were the only girls among the group though.

"Gloom Dust!" Dust started to spread off of the flowers that was on the Alraumons' head in the form of a fog.

"Don't breathe it in! It's poison!" Renamon shouted the warning out as it jumped above the spreading fog and perching upon a tree branch.

"Hurricane Wave!" Kazemon let leash the attack to disperse the fog.

The fog though wasn't dispersed and the attack had only spurred the attack to spread faster. The Alraumon laughed at the mistake that Kazemon had committed. The Warriors had no real chance of escaping the fog that had rapidly spread and as they were struggling not to breath in too much of the poisoned fog but the Alraumons' laughter stopped.

"No way." Renamon breathed the stunned words out as it stared at Legnamon.

"How are you doing that?!" Beetlemon asked it out of surprise.

The poisonous fog was being drawn to Legnamon while and disappearing – leaves that had fallen from the trees were swirling around in the small gust that circled Legnamon. The leaves in the gust and upon her outfit was glowing softly.

"She's purifying the air!" The Alraumon called it out at differing times within seconds of each other.

"Amelia must've fully resonated with her Spirit which has allowed Legnamon to be able to purify the air like trees and plants do." Bokomon made the observation.

"Why do you keep attacking? Why are you trying to drain this forest of its energy? What do you gain?" Legnamon asked as she stared at the unmoving Alraumon.

"You." The Alraumon's answers snapped everyone to attention and put everyone on the defensive.

"What do you want with her?!" Lobomon growled the question out as he leveled a beam sword at them.

The Alraumon backed away from Lobomon and eyed him cautiously. They looked around at each other before the one that had originally declared 'get her' stepped forwards from the back. The Alraumon that stepped forward was taller than the others along with the flower on its head being a bit wilted and torn in places.

"Legnamon and her friends shall save the forest. We had to find her, drawing energy from the tree allowed us to look for her! We had to find Legnamon so our forest could be saved – a few trees and plants could be sacrificed if it meant the whole forest not being eaten by the Demons." Alraumon's words caught everyone off guard.

Renamon jumped from its perch, "Why did you not tell us your reason before?"

"You would not have believed us! You Renamon believe that the Great Protector shall forever protect the forest, but it is a mere ghost – there is no way that it could stand against the Demons that would eat our forest!" The tall Alraumon's words were biting but Renamon didn't flinch.

"How did you know that they would come for the forest?" Beetlemon asked the question that was bugging him.

"We found the warning in the deepest part of the forest – the part that you Renamon guard and refuse anyone entrance to. We went there to pay respect to our ancestors and found it recorded – when the world is being eaten our forest would be a treat to the greatest evil. Legnamon and her group would put a stop to it. We assumed it to be a fairy tale until the Fractal Code of the world began being gathered by the Demon Lords." The Warriors shared a look at the Alraumon's explanation.

"Was it only my name mentioned?" Legnamon asked the question.

'There is no way that it was only my name mentioned – the others are stronger than me at this point as well.' Legnamon removed her mask as she waited for the answer.

"The other names had been worn away by age – your name was restored though before our eyes, a fallen tree vanished into data but restored the name. You belong to Wood, do you not? It is no surprise that this forest would respond and reveal your name in a time of chaos." The Alraumon watched Legnamon.

"You were only trying to save our forest." Renamon sounded regretful.

The tall Alraumon looked to Renamon, "Yes."

"Let us return to the village – we'll explain it to everyone. Since the group that can save our beloved forest is here, there is no more need to drain the Sacred Tree's energy. There is no need for you all to be expelled from the village that had been ours for so long either." The Alraumon cheered at Renamon's words.

"We'll go tell everyone else!" All besides the tall Alraumon fled back through the shrubbery and trees after their group words.

"So," Agunimon gave way to Takuya, "everything was a misunderstanding?"

"It seems so, I apologize on our behalf for dragging you all into our misunderstanding." At Renamon's apology everyone dropped their Spirit Evolutions.

Tommy smiled, "Don't worry about!"

"It seems that the misunderstanding was actually a good thing actually since it got us here." Zoe made the observation – not entirely happy but not upset either.

Meredith gave a relieved smile, "I'm just glad it ended peacefully."

'It appears that I'm not the only one who has some communication issues.' Amelia shook her head to clear the thought from her head.

It was a bit awkward going back since it had been so anticlimactic. Even though they hadn't wanted to fight it felt odd not to have fought. In a way, it was a letdown to having seen it end so suddenly and peaceful. They had expected something more or different instead of what they got. But it all worked out in the end. The forest isn't damaged and both sides made peace. It's still odd that the whole battle was over a misunderstanding.

"What is going on here?" That was the question that greeted them upon returning to the Renamon village.

"Everything was a misunderstanding. The Alraumon found a warning apparently that said that the Warriors would be able to defeat the Demons and they were trying to locate them through Amelia's Spirit of Wood. To do that though, they had to use the energy from the Sacred Tree." Renamon explained it to Kyubimon – the one that had met them with the question.

Kyubimon looked to Alraumon, "A misunderstanding?"

Alraumon didn't flinch under Kyubimon's look, "Yes – we never told you all because we figured that we wouldn't be believed. We decided to take it into our own hands – the Great Protector never minded us using the energy to try and find them. If the Great Protector had minded, the energy that fed us would've been harmful to us."

"I want to trust you, old friend – don't make me regret it." Alraumon smiled at Kyubimon's words.

"You won't regret it! I promise." Alraumon bounced slightly while the flower on its head seemed to regain some of its color.

"So, the Alraumon get to come back to the village?" Tommy asked the question not sure what would happen next.

"Yes – the Alraumon can call this village their home once again." Kyubimon turned to walk away, "I'll go and inform the others."

Takuya placed his hands behind his head, "It's great that things got solved without a fight breaking out."

"Communication is key they say." Kyle's words earned an uneasy laugh from Amelia.

'I know it's not directed at me, but it certainly feels like it. Maybe it's because I'm guilty of bad communication too.' Amelia's attention went towards the woods to the right of her.

Amelia waited for Alraumon to emerge from the forest since she had heard something. The plant Digimon seemed to move about the forest fast so she wasn't surprised that they arrived at the village so quickly. The comfortable atmosphere was shattered through and the air rung. Due to the suddenness of the attack there were startled screams and scrambling.

"Alraumon!" The shout came from everyone present.

Alraumon shook slightly and dropped to their knees. The attack that would've hit Tommy had Alraumon not managed to move fast enough to shield Tommy. As the group stared at Alraumon stunned, a cruel laughter carried to their eyes and none other than Beelzemon walked out of the forest.

Beelzemon smirked, "Well would you look at that, plants do have feelings after all."

"You monster!" Tommy screamed the words at Beelzemon.

Beelzemon feigned hurt, placing a hand over his heart, "You wound me." Though it came out more of a taunt with a hint of drama.

Amelia growled while Meredith glared at Beelzemon. Takuya and Koji had already drawn out their D-Tectors. Zoe and J.P. were in the middle of drawing out their D-Tectors and Tommy was worrying over Alraumon.

"Don't worry about me – I've done enough. Protect everyone – save this forest from the Demon." Alraumon's words set them into action.

A very determined look settled on Amelia's face. She was actually angry enough that she wasn't able to mask it – her normally blue-grey eyes seemed more of a darker grey currently.

"Execute: Spirit Evolution!" The group called it out together.

Beelzemon raised his gun, "Not today!"

The Demon rapidly fired his gun, but was stopped by Renamon releasing its Diamond Storm attack while Alraumon was able to expand enough energy to cause its fingers to grow and slap Beelzemon's hand – knocking his gun out of his hand.

"Agunimon!" The flames burned just a bit hotter.

"Lobomon!" A beam sword was quickly drawn.

"Beetlemon!" Electricity charged up around his fists.

"Kazemon!" Lifting off of her feet she set her eyes on Beelzemon.

"Kumamon!" His angry gaze was stuck on Beelzemon.

"Sakanamon!" Sakanamon took a breath to calm herself.

"Legnamon!" Legnamon stared Beelzemon down as her spear started to form once again.

"Gorumon!" Gorumon gripped his hammer tightly and got ready for the fight that was going to ensue.

Beelzemon was able to grab ahold of Alraumon's vine like fingers before Alraumon was able to pull them back. Using his hold of them Beelzemon yanked Alraumon to him and there was no resistance from it due to its weakened state. Lobomon shot forwards, racing across the grass. Beetlemon was hot on Lobomon's feet. Neither of them reached Beelzemon before the Demon kicked Alraumon hard in its gut. It dropped to the ground writhing in agony.

"Make sure nobody comes, Renamon!" Agunimon dished out the command as he to rushed forwards.

"Lobo Kendo!" Beelzemon was forced to dodged Lobomon's attack.

"Thunder Fist!" Beetlemon managed to nail Beelzemon in the back.

Beelzemon barely stumbled though – recovering quicker than Beetlemon was able to retreat. Beelzemon slashed Beetlemon across the chest and the Warrior of Thunder was forced back from the force of the attack – crying out from pain as well.

"Turquoise Rain!" Beelzemon was only caught by a few drops of the rain before he retreated out of the attack's reach.

"Blizzard Blaster!"

"Hurricane Wave!" Beelzemon laughed since Kazemon's attack missed him but he didn't laugh when he was splashed with more of Sakanamon's attack while also carrying Kumamon's attack – adding more force behind the snowballs.

"Golem Hammer!" Gorumon bared down on Beelzemon with his hammer – having been able to approach without being noticed due to the pressure put on by Kazemon's attack.

Everything stopped for a moment because Beelzemon was able to reach out and catch Gorumon's hammer. Gorumon's eyes widened due to Beelzemon stopping his attack as if it was nothing. Beelzemon smirked. Oh man, this can't be good.

"I like that look," Beelzemon pulled out his second gun in a split second, "Heartbreak Shot."

The bullet flickered and seemed to disappear when it hit Gorumon, but there was no celebration at the first thought failed attack. Beelzemon was able to release Gorumon's hammer without having an attack follow immediately or Gorumon retreating. The Warrior of Earth dropped to his knees instead and his Spirit Evolution vanished – the ring of Fractal Code that bore Kyle's Spirits appeared.

"Pyro Darts!" Agunimon sent the fire at Beelzemon quickly and without much thought.

The wild attack did manage to force Beelzemon to dodge them – further being forced away from Kyle when Legnamon stabbed at him with her spear. Lobomon grabbed Kyle since he was closest and retreated a bit before sitting him down. Kyle still didn't move and he stared at the ground – hunched over and curling into himself.

"Kyle?" Kumamon called worryingly.

While Kumamon and Kazemon tried to figure out what happened to Kyle, there were two problems. Agunimon's wild attack might have forced Beelzemon away from Kyle, but the missed attacks had started a fire. While the fire was small Sakanamon had to focus on the fire to put it out. Agunimon also realized that due to the location he couldn't sling around his fire without care. Beelzemon, the other problem, was currently facing off of Legnamon. Legnamon was dodging rapid fire shots by dancing around pretty much – careful not to take to the air because she didn't have much maneuverability in the air. She was light, but not a flier.

"Howling Laser!" The attack forced Beelzemon to stop his onslaught of attacks on Legnamon.

"Lightning Blitz!" The lightning stream that came from Beetlemon's horns managed to crash into Beelzemon.

Legnamon raised her hand and the air stirred. The leaves of the trees started to rustle while there was a hum in the air. Wisps of energy seemed to leak from the ground around Legnamon's feet. Her face was set in a blank look, but there was a certain kind of fury in her eyes – a kind of fury that held Beelzemon's full attention. Beelzemon was preparing himself for whatever was able to be let leashed.

"Leaf Thorn Hurricane." Legnamon's words were devoid of pretty much every emotion.

There was a howl of wind as leaves seemed to come shooting out of the forest, lifting from the ground or pulling away from the trees within sight. The leaves all shot at Beelzemon but mixed within the torrent of leaves were wooden thorns. Beetlemon retreated quickly while Beelzemon dodged some but got nailed with a good chunk of the attack.

"She's resonated with the forest!" Bokomon exclaimed the words from his hiding place.

Kyaromon stared in awe, "Woah."

"This is what I'm talking about now!" Beelzemon burst out of the vortex of leaves and thorns with a face splitting grin.

"You're actually worth some time!" Beelzemon bent forwards before pushing off - shooting through the air faster than before.

"Darkness Claw!" Even though Legnamon had raised her lance face enough to intercept the attack Beelzemon sliced it in half easily.

"Lobo Kendo!" Beelzemon bent nearly completely horizontal to dodge the attack.

The surprise flexibility caught Lobomon off guard. That second of surprise allowed Beelzemon to use the hand he had planted on the ground spin kick Lobomon – the spikes on his boots tearing into Lobomon's armor. The Warrior of Light was forced back by the strength behind the kick while data rushed out of the lacerations that cut all the way through his armor. Legnamon had managed to dodge the other foot – which had been aimed at her. Beelzemon completely flipped – putting himself back on his feet but he picked up his gun that had been knocked away earlier.

"Tempest Whirlpool!" Sakanamon directed the attack at Beelzemon since she had taken care of the fire.

Beelzemon dodged the attack but was hit by the snowballs that been hidden behind the whirlpool. The snow splattered across him and he sneered as he pointed one gun at Kumamon and the other at Sakanamon – releasing a hail of bullets at them without a word. Beelzemon didn't get to fire off too many shots before Legnamon forced him to stop – her reformed lance tearing through where his arms had been seconds before.

Sakanamon summoned forth another Tempest Whirlpool to shield herself from Beelzemon's bullets. Kumamon was too far away for it to shield him as well. Kazemon managed to scoop him up before he was nailed by them though. Lobomon took the chance to begrudgingly retreat – seconds later reverting back to Koji. Koji panted and gripped his side – even though the attack hadn't hit him it stung.

"This isn't good guys!" Beetlemon voiced his worry.

Seconds after Beetlemon had spoken the words, Legnamon miscalculated an attack and Beelzemon dodged it. Spinning around her and slamming the butt of his gun in her head. Her mask took the brunt of the damage though and shattered to pieces. Legnamon stumbled backwards – dazed from the attack.

"Hurricane Wave!"

"Lightning Blitz!"

The two attacks melded together before they crashed into Beelzemon – seconds to late. Beelzemon had delivered a harsh kick to Legnamon midsection sending her flying. The fact that Legnamon was light was a curse in that moment. She not only hit the Sacred Tree since the fight had broken out close to it, she found herself knocked inside of it. It was a clean entrance into the hole either – pieces of bark broke off from around the opening from being hit by her limbs. Beelzemon clicked his teeth and shook off the lightning as he stood from the ground – having been knocked done due to not having had the right center of gravity to take that attack.

"You flies are annoying!" Kazemon and Beetlemon didn't get a chance to dodge the bullets that were fired at them.

Kazemon staggered back in the air – having to land actually. Beetlemon fared a bit better since he had some armor to absorb the impact from Beelzemon's attack.

Agunimon curled his hands into fists, 'I can't do anything. My attacks will only cause more problems for them.'

Agunimon took a deep breath – trying to calm down. The best thing he could do was stay calm. He had to make sure he didn't burn the whole forest down by accident. Besides he pretty much had to protect Kyle since he was still messed up from whatever attack he had been hit by. Koji had even retreated towards him since he had been knocked out of the fight.

A growl interrupted the moment of silent observation that had been happening on both sides. The growl emitted from the Sacred Tree and light was pour out of the hole that Legnamon had been knocked into. Amelia emerged from the hole but her hand was surrounded by a ball of Fractal Code.

"No way." Sakanamon breathed the words out surprised.

"No!" Beelzemon's shout was accompanied by him firing both of his guns at Amelia.

"Tempest Whirlpool!" Sakanamon reacted in a split second – moving in front of Amelia as she cast her shield; the bullets were eaten by the whirlpool and as Amelia raised both of her hands.

"Execute! Beast Spirit Evolution!" There was a grin on Amelia's face as she scanned the Fractal Code. It's time to be one with the beast.

Amelia threw her head back as she screamed – scarlet hair whipping around her. Fractal Code surrounded her – leaves spinning around the Fractal Code. Within the Fractal Code her whole body went fuzzy. No armor at all appeared on the Fractal Code that had consumed her. Her fuzzy body was consumed by a shell of wood before it was molded into a small creature of wood. Two tails of wood sprouted from the wood while leaves formed to create the ears of the now fox-shaped Beast. Green spikes sprouted from the wooden tails that lashed the air. Dark green eyes were revealed when the Beast opened her eyes. The fox jumped and spun in the air as she fell towards the platform below. Grinning away as she fell – unafraid and enjoying the descent.

Landing on her feet with ease, there was a flicker of dark green and brown light, "Juhimon!"

When Juhimon was revealed, everyone was taken by surprise. Juhimon was small – far smaller than the other Beast Spirits. Beelzemon laughed upon seeing Juhimon while the others felt underwhelmed by her appearance. That appearance made Kumamon's less threatening. She was so adorable that it'd be difficult to take her serious in battle.

"You call that a Beast Spirit!?" Beelzemon stopped his laughter the second the taunt left his mouth.

In the split second he had blinked Juhimon was no long by the tree – nearly completely hidden by Sakanamon. Juhimon was in his face and whipping him across the face with the spiked tails that she had. Beelzemon took a step back out of surprise while Juhimon landed and sprinted forwards. Beelzemon's eyes widened when he realized that he couldn't track her movements.

"Wood Dance!" The call was the only warning Beelzemon got.

Beelzemon was trapped in a wild dance of attack. Juhimon would strike him before Beelzemon could grab him only to repeat. It was more of a frenzy – even if the attacks that were being dealt weren't particularly strong the damage would add up for certain. Juhimon broke from the frenzy of attacks when Beelzemon lashed out with Darkness Claw in the front and whipped his own tail to stop Juhimon from streaking his back.

Juhimon slid across the ground as – slowly coming to a stop. Lowering herself towards the ground in the front, it was clear that Juhimon was preparing to pounce once again. Beelzemon released a frenzy of shots – he didn't even bother with aiming since Juhimon was a small target that would be hard to hit and she would jump around too much. Beelzemon's focus on Juhimon though cost him.

"Hurricane Wave!" Kazemon's attack knocked Beelzemon into the trap that Sakanamon had set up.

Having been knocked into Turquoise Rain, Beelzemon had energy zapped out of him. Literally zapped out since Beetlemon let lease a Thunder Blitz that rained down along side of the water of Sakanamon's attack. Beelzemon was paralyzed for a moment but then he was frozen.

"Growth!" Juhimon called it out as she rushed forwards.

For a moment, everyone was thrown into confusion, it was a surprise. Juhimon wasn't small any longer – she had grown. The wood that was her had expanded seemingly she was now about the same size as KendoGarurumon. More spikes had sprouted upon her tail and the Symbol of Wood became apparent – stretching from her eyes to her muzzle.

Beelzemon broke out of his iced shell just in time to see the now larger Juhimon baring down on him. He didn't get a chance to move to dodge or block.

"Timber!" Juhimon called it out as she rammed full speed into Beelzemon.

Beelzemon was knocked off of his feet and got the air knocked out of him. It was only made worse when Juhimon brought a paw down on his chest – claws digging into it. Juhimon lowered her face and growled in his face.

"Who's laughing now?" Juhimon's words were followed by a giggle.

Beelzemon kicked upwards – the spikes on his boots forcing Juhimon to rear back. Beelzemon slashed Juhimon across the chest area. She staggered backwards but Beelzemon didn't attack again. He stared Juhimon down.

"Regrowth." The slashes that Beelzemon had caused were being mended.

Seeing that Juhimon had healed herself Beelzemon turned. The Demon left without a word and a before anyone could say anything. Juhimon turned to look at the others who were all staring at her. As she began to approach them they all took note of her green eyes – her unfocused green eyes. Sakanamon, Kazemon, Kumamon, Beetlemon and even Agunimon settled into defensive stances – ready for anything.

"Prune." Juhimon spoke the word and as she walked forwards she shrunk back to the smaller form.

They all stiffened because Juhimon was gone. They were all ready for an attack – bracing themselves for what would come. When Kyle let out a startled gasp everyone's attention snapped to him. He was staring wide eyed at Juhimon who was removing a paw from his head. Juhimon turned and trotted away – tails swishing happily in the air. She stopped once she reached Alraumon who was barely awake.

"P-Protector?" Alraumon question surprised everyone.

"Sap Healing." Juhimon spoke the words softly – sap exuded from her paw and she spread it on Alraumon's wounds.

Juhimon backed away, but her eyes were coming into focus. As she blinked, Fractal Code appeared and surrounded her. Amelia emerged but promptly fell to her side – before her head hit the ground though Alraumon reacted and caught her head.

"Melia!" Kyaromon rushed to Amelia's side.

Sakanamon, Kazemon, Beetlemon, Kumamon and Agunimon dropped their Spirit Evolutions. They watched surprised because Kyaromon wasn't the only one rushed to Amelia's side. Koji found himself rushing over to her without even thinking about it. He only realized that he had rushed to her when he found himself crouching down beside her.

Well, that was unexpected. Find out what'll happen next time on Digimon: Digital Monsters!