Amelia belongs to Jeabird, Kyle belongs to Heisei255, and I thank them, and Black Cat Angel for helping me with this story. The Corealmon mentioned belong to TheArtsyDigimon of Deviantart.
Having gone the Renamon Village after a distress signal was flagged on Amelia's D-Tector, Amelia stalked off by herself after a nerve was talked. A spirit talked to her, which she later found out to be the 'Protector' of the forest and Renamon Village. Amelia opened up about her life too and man, no wonder she's touchy with help. Choosing to help the Renamon settle the battle with the Alraumon, they headed off to go to the Alraumon Village only to be ambushed, but learned everything was a misunderstanding. Thanks to Alraumon knowing Legnamon's name somehow, things were settled without a fight. Upon returning the Renamon Village though, Beelzemon attacked! The battle wasn't in the groups favor, but an angry Legnamon who was at home surrounded by a forest found power to put up a good up. Even with that, Legnamon got knocked out by Beelzemon but man was everyone in for a surprise. Amelia emerged from the Sacred Tree and Beast Spirit Evolved.
: Demon Lords :
The sun started to rise, casting the shadow of the clouds that covered the sky. The pink structure that housed the Demon Lords was active despite the early hours.
Beelzemon growled as he lifted weights, "They're going to regret that," there was a heavy intensity in his workout, "next time they're mine." Each weight he lifted he imagined defeating each child; imagining their cries of defeat; oh yes, just need a few more weights and he'd be strong enough to them all on even in their Beast Spirits.
Barbamon approached Beelzemon – watching as the Demon in leather exercised with a unusual vigor. Upon hearing the words though, Barbamon smirked. Beelzemon turned to look at the long bearded Demin when he sensed an approaching presence.
"You'll need more than just brawn to defeat them." Barbamon's words were cutting.
Beelzemon sneered, "Thanks for the advice." Even though he wasn't going to take it. Having Barbamon watched him train and judging him, look who's talking! The old Demon would do the same if he were up against them by himself. See how he'd act after playing with children.
"If you have breath for the sarcasm, you're not training nearly enough." Barbamon only received a glare. Keep talking, smart mouth.
Beelzemon turned away, "You're the one who interrupted me – chaos is spontaneous and has requirements that I'm always ready to meet."
"And that's why the world has the displeasure of calling you a Demon." Barbamon chuckled slightly.
"I have things to do," Beelzemon started to walk away, "later."
Barbamon smirked as he watched Beelzemon leave. Turning around, the Demon of Greed made his way out and found his way to the top of their hideout and left the hideout. From his perch, Barbamon was able to look down at the clouds. He held his staff out and from it light was projected and within the light was an orb surrounded by Fractal Code.
Barbamon grinned, "Checkmate. Seraphimon's fractal code, and it's all mine."
Barbamon let the light fade away and laughed slightly, "Soon enough the Digital World will be mine and no one else's!"
Barbamon's laughter grew in intensity as he spread his arms out wide and threw his head back. His laughter echoed and his shoulders shook from the force of his laughter.
Barbamon had an unknown audience. Below him and hidden in the shadows of one of the rooms of the hideout was Duskmon. Duskmon opened his eyes as he listened to Barbamon talk and laugh to himself.
"Why is Cherubimon coming here? Who messed up?" Lilithmon had looked to Beelzemon before she finished – Barbamon also looked to the Demon of Gluttony. it was the look that said "you done it this time, pal; suffer the scolding."
"I didn't do anything." Beelzemon spat the words out. Why were they looking at him like he decided to be on Digidestined's side.
The three of them stood facing an altar like rock formation. There were rock formations on either side that were shaped like candlesticks – on top of those two formations was fire. The fire lit the room that the Demons were in.
"He wants the Fractal Code." Barbamon stopped anything else from being said.
They watched the altar as there was a stir in the air. Seconds later there a vortex of data came from the altar and formed a vortex that stayed present. Within the vortex formed a shadow. Upon seeing the shadow form and look down at them due to its height the Demons took to a knee and knelt down. Bowing their heads as well to the data figure.
"Lord Cherubimon." Barbamon addressed the shadow within the data.
The three Demons looked up to the shadow of Cherubimon after Barbamon's address.
"Power is everything, and the only thing. Greetings, my most faithful followers. It appears someone is missing." Cherubimon's voice was rough. He narrowed his eyes at the three that were present.
"Yes – Duskmon is out." Barbamon might've responded, but he didn't exactly care.
"He's never around." Lilithmon threw it out.
Beelzemon rolled his eyes, "He'll come – he always shows up." He spoke as if Duskmon was a dog… then again, Duskmon was known as Cherubimon's loyal dog. He'd come if his master called his name.
Barbamon clicked his tongue, "Daemon let his temper get out of control and has fallen."
"So he has. It was the humans who sealed his fate, was it not?" Cherubimon sounded unaffected by hearing that. Take his pawn, he has more (so to speak).
Barbamon lifted his head to look at Cherubimon. He didn't know what to say so he just watched the evil Digimon. Barbamon was slightly unsettled knowing that Cherubimon knew.
Cherubimon grinned, "But no matter, with you, my three Great Demon Lords, this entire world will submit to my power."
Once more the Demon Lords bowed their heads.
Barbamon lifted his head, "I give to you all the Fractal Code that we've gathered."
Barbamon lifted his staff. The gem at the end of the staff glowed and Fractal Code started to flow from the gem. The Fractal Code flowed to the base of the projection in a single stream.
Cherubimon grinned, "Well, it's gratifying to see how much data you've compiled. Well done, my minions."
Barbamon bowed his head, "We serve you."
"How disappointing that you choose not to present the most vital data you have. Seraphimon's Fractal Code." Cherubimon's words surprised the Demon Lords.
Barbamon lifted his head, "Let me explain."
Cherubimon chuckles, "I see. Consider that code a gift I may demand to have returned whenever I wish it."
They all quickly bowed their heads. They bowed their heads deeper than they had the other times. They didn't lift their eyes to look at Cherubimon.
Cherubimon stared down at them, "Beware, the Earth children have found their Beast Spirits and their strength is growing."
Lilithmon lifted her head, "They cannot defeat us - we're the Demon Lords after all." It didn't matter anyway. The children could have hundreds of Spirits on their side and it wouldn't matter. They had more power because Cherubimon was their master! With him as their leader, they're invincible! They may not of defeated them and grabbed their Spirits, but they were working on it!
"Then why have you been unable to eliminate them?" Cherubimon's words caused a silence to overcome them. Yeah…. Plan to defeat them was still a working progress.
Lilithmon lowered her head, "Well, that's because…"
Beelzemon stood up, "I'll destroy those pathetic worms – I'll cut them down like trees."
"Excellent, but don't fail me." With those words, Cherubimon vanished.
With Cherubimon gone, Barbamon stood and turned his back on the altar in a fluid motion. A sneer on his face. Lilithmon rose to her feet as well, crossing her arms and glaring at the altar.
Lilithmon looked to Barbamon, "How much longer until this is over?"
"I don't know – it all depends on how things go. I wish it was over now, but there are things that need to happen first." Barbamon spat the words out.
"If it takes any longer, I'm going to be sick." Beelzemon had cut Lilithmon off.
:The Gang:
Alraumon and Koji both helped Amelia sit up but she placed her hands on the ground in front of her to support herself. Even if her arms were shaking they did manage to support her. Her eyes were closed as she took deep breaths. Using the Beast Spirit takes a lot of energy out of you; it's exhausting work.
"Melia, you ok?" Kyaromon was the first to ask the question even though by then everyone had gathered.
Amelia opened her eyes, "Yeah, I'm just tired."
Meredith approached closer, "When did you get your Beast Spirit?"
Amelia looked to Meredith. Despite being drained, the headphone girl sat back on her legs instead of being hunched over.
"Were you holding out on us?" J.P. hadn't even given Amelia time to answer before he asked – effectively cutting her off.
"Why don't you give her a chance to answer?" Koji had no problem cutting in and stopping the barrage of questions that was about to come.
There was a moment silence that was only filled by the sound of Bokomon pulling the book out and flipping through the pages. Amelia took another deep breath as her mind flashed back to what happen which caused her to smile.
"My Beast Spirit was in the Sacred Tree. When I was knocked in and my Spirit Evolution failed, Juhimon popped out – revealing my Beast Spirit." Amelia pulled out her D-Tector and looked to it, Juhimon was currently being shown on screen.
"Why was your Beast Spirit there?" Tommy asked it even though he knew that she wouldn't know the answer.
"It's the same reason she was able to hear the Protector." All eyes turned to Renamon.
"I'm right then on who Juhimon is then." Amelia's knowing words confused the others.
"If you thought that Juhimon is the Protector, yes, you're right." Renamon's words surprised everyone.
Kyle crossed his arms, "Why are Amelia's Spirits tied to this forest? Why is she so important to this forest?"
"Is this by any chance Troia Forest?" Bokomon asked the question, staring at the book in his hands.
Alraumon tilted its head, "Yes, why do you ask though?"
Bokomon looked up, "Troia Forest got its name long ago – the forest was either the birth place or the creation of AncientTroiamon."
"AncientTroiamon?" Neemon parroted the name.
"AncientTroiamon is the Legendary Warrior of Wood." The words stunned everyone – besides Alraumon and Renamon.
"It makes sense why her Beast Spirit is here – why it acted as a protector to this forest." Zoe received a nod from Bokomon.
"It also explains why Legnamon had an extra boost of power – this forest probably reached out to her and offered Legnamon some of its energy." Bokomon closed the book and put it away.
"Thank you for helping our village." All eyes turned to Kyubimon when it spoke.
"It was no problem." Takuya replied on reflex.
Amelia stood, 'They weren't the only ones who helped.'
"While I would offer a feast as payment, I should tell you all that if you hope to catch a Trailmon, you all should set off now. They don't come through this area as much since Cherubimon and his Demon Lords started their attacks. The next one probably won't come for a week." Alarm shot through everyone at Kyubimon's words.
"What?!" J.P. voiced not only his surprise, but everyone else's as well.
"The closest station is back at the Corealmon Village – the Trailmon will arrive there in about two hours." The group shared a look at the further news about the Trailmon situation.
"How long does it take to get back?" Meredith was a bit afraid of the answer.
"Two hours." Renamon's nonchalant answer kicked everyone into gear.
"We can't miss that train!" Takuya shouted it as he took off.
"Takuya!" Meredith called after him – she did scoop up DemiVeemon though and chase after him.
"Thanks for the hospitality!" Zoe left after her words as well.
J.P. groaned but followed after the others – granted he wasn't running. Tommy waved back to them as he left. As Koji stood and turned to leave Kyaromon, denied Amelia carrying him by jumping onto Koji's shoulder. The wolf boy was a bit surprised but accepted it. He, Amelia, Bokomon and Neemon left together but it didn't take long to catch up to the others. They weren't running but they were making the hike through the forest faster than they had made it on their way to the village.
The group had just made it onto the station's platform when the Trailmon pulled into the station. The doors of the Trailmon swung open and they wasted no time boarding it. Everyone collapsed into a seat – tired from their hike back to the station. Trailmon made its way from the station and a few minutes later they were going across a land bridge that only had tracks on it since that was about how big the land bridge was.
"Whoo, whoo, yeah whatever. Blah blah blah blab, whoo! Blah." The Trailmon didn't sound too excited about making the usual train noises.
Takuya stood and poked his head out the opened window, "Oh wow, check it out! The Rose Morning Star's gotta be close now!"
At Takuya's words everyone else moved to look out the windows. Happy to see that they were approaching the Rose Morning Star they were smiling – well besides Amelia. The reason behind that was due to the fact that the sunny sky they were currently under suddenly shifts to a sky completely blocked out by clouds that were dark grey, nearly black with patches of dark purple in them. It was ominous and just didn't sit well with Amelia. The sky looked like there was a storm brewing or it never shown a ray of sunshine.
"Fantastico!" Zoe's cheer faded slightly, "But it's midday, are the clouds supposed to be that dark?"
Tommy turned to look to Bokomon, "Uh, hey Bokomon? What does this book have to say about this area?"
Bokomon looks down to the book, "Hm, let's see. I haven't found anything that-"
Bokomon turned the page and promptly cried out. A look of fear crossed his face. No one got to question Bokomon though because Trailmon braked hard and it knocked everyone around. They nearly fell off of their seats from how hard the brakes were hit. Trailmon came to a grinding halt in the middle of the tracks.
"Alright! Who was the nimrod that slammed on the brakes?!" J.P. questioned angrily.
"That'd be me, blue boy. End of the line!" The Trailmon was unfazed by J.P.'s aggressive words. Rude Trailmon said what now?!
Zoe peered out the window, "That can't be right. We're in the middle of nowhere."
Koji looked out and saw more tracks, "It looks like the tracks don't stop for miles." Did the Trailmon expect them to walk the rest of the way to the Rose Morning Star?
"How observant of you. Look, if I say it's the end of the line, it's the end of the line. Go on. Get out. Get lost." The Trailmon was getting annoyed slightly by now.
Amelia stood, "This isn't even a station! I'd understand if it was, but this is just the middle of the tracks!"
"You can't do this! We have Digirail passes!" Zoe was angry.
"Yeah, yeah, write it down, you'll sell millions. Look if you wanna go, then go. I ain't stoppin ya." The Trailmon opened it's side up and just tilted the seats – causing everyone to fall out onto the ground. Again. RUDE. Trailmon.
"I want to wish you the best of luck. You're gonna need it." With that Trailmon shot back down the tracks in reverse.
Everyone was sprawled out on the ground from the forced ejection from the train. Zoe had found her ways to sitting on her knees while Koji and Takuya were pushing themselves up from the ground. J.P. landed on his bottom – a bit too close to the edge for his comfort. Tommy remained face down while Neemon and Bokomon were on their backs. Meredith sat up but Amelia just stayed laying on her stomach, staring at the others with tired eyes.
J.P. groaned slightly, "I would have to admit, I've been dumped before, but never quite like that."
"Dude, that wasn't cool." Meredith hadn't even bothered to really speak up with that comment, but the others heard her anyway.
Takuya stood up, "So, everyone in one piece?"
"Yeah." Tommy stood and rubbed his head.
"Aren't there any normal Trailmon?" Zoe stood.
Meredith stood up, "Probably no such luck."
"I think I popped a waistband." Neemon had even bothered to move – he was still sprawled out by an annoyed looking Koji.
Takuya looked over his shoulder, "Bokomon?"
Bokomon looked uneasy, "Welcome to the Dark Gate."
Everyone had gotten to their feet at this point yet Bokomon's words confused them. They all turned to look at Bokomon.
"Huh?" The questioned together.
"That temple-like structure behind you is the Dark Gate, through it lies the Continent of Darkness." There was fear evident in Bokomon's voice.
Turning to look behind them they saw the structure that Bokomon spoke of it. The entrance was shadowed once one would be in a couple of feet. Hanging above it in the sky was the start of the massive dark clouds. The structure was made of stone and a symbol was carved into a stone tablet that was above the gateway. Kyaromon moved to hide behind Amelia, but she just bent down and picked him up. DemiVeemon also hid in Meredith's arms.
"Why do I get the feeling that's not a good thing?" J.P.'s voice had quivered.
There was a crash of thunder as everyone tried to get a better look at the symbol that was above the gateway. Everyone was staring at the gateway – watching as if they were waiting for something to emerge from the gateway.
"Is it as bad as it sounds?" Zoe asked a bit hopeful.
Bokomon closed his eyes and rested his hands on the egg, "I wish I could tell you, but to be honest I have no idea what awaits us there. It's an eerie land shrouded in utter darkness. But the dangers it holds are as legendary as it's mysteries."
J.P. turned to face him, "There's got to be something written in that book about it."
Bokomon pulled out the book, "Well, let's take a look shall we, Continent of Darkness chapter twelve."
Bokomon opened the book and turned it towards them. Everyone looked to the pages but was greeted with something that they hadn't expected. Instead of words or symbols they knew they wouldn't understand the book pages were just black.
Takuya blinked, "Whoa, it's pitch black."
Meredith crossed her arms, "It's also wasted ink."
"How come?" Tommy asked as he inched a bit closer to the page.
Bokomon closed the book, "It appears that there's really no first hand information on this place. Many brave Digimon have ventured within, but it seems that none of them have ever returned to tell of its secrets."
Tommy backed up, gasping slightly in fear. Seeing his reaction, Zoe bent down so she was closer to his height and gave him a slightly startled but also reassuring look. Amelia though looked back to the gateway.
Bokomon turned his head to the side, "Only the foolhardy would dare enter the Continent of Darkness. We'll have to find another route to the Rose Morning Star."
Takuya turned to the gateway, determined, "But the shortest route is straight ahead. Nothing ventured, nothing gained, right?" Nothing would get accomplished if they kept standing around and wondering which path to take other than the obvious one.
"Huh?!" Bokomon looked to Takuya surprised.
Dark mist started to move in and started to obscure the view of the gateway. Seeing this started to unsettle the others just a bit more.
J.P. shifted uneasily, "Uh, I think we should take a vote." It was like the climax of a horror; the heroes venture into a dark and scary place before each victim becomes a target one by one.
Bokomon gulped, "Agreed."
Everyone stated at the now slightly obscured gateway. Most were uneasy, but they didn't tear their eyes away. Their minds were all over the place as they thought about what might be ahead of them.
Takuya didn't back down, "You know, when all of us work as a team, we've overcome some pretty tough stuff. So what's the point in backing off here and giving up?"
"Yeah, if something major happens, we'll just Spirit Evolve." Despite J.P.'s words moments before, his voice didn't quiver this time.
Tommy nodded, "There isn't any trouble that we can't handle."
"Exactly, we're the eight Legendary Warriors who stopped Daemon and that guy was no pushover." Zoe didn't sound shaken a bit at this point.
Koji stared steadily ahead, "You guys know I'm in."
"We have our Beast Spirits, too." Meredith's words did get a bit of surprise since she had been against them and afraid of her own Beast Spirit.
"As long as we're not reckless, we'll be fine." Despite Amelia's brave words she did hold Kyaromon a bit tighter.
"Maybe everyone who's gone has stayed because it's an unexpected nice place?" Kyle's optimism did get an uneasy laugh from the group.
There was a rumble of thunder as the mist that obscured the gateway started to move out.
"Well, we've took a vote. Motion carried. Move out!" At Takuya's words they started to move forwards.
As the group moved forwards, Takuya threw his fist in the air. Bokomon though was rooted to the spot in fear. As they drew farther away from him, Bokomon reached out to them.
"But what about me and Seraphimon's egg?" They didn't pause at Bokomon's quivering words.
"Neemon!" Bokomon called it out when Neemon rushed forwards to catch up to the group.
Neemon jogged after the group, "Don't forget to write!"
Bokomon's shoulders dropped as he stood by himself – unless you counted Seraphimon's egg that was in his waistband. After a couple of seconds Bokomon closed his eyes and hunched over as if he was trying to force himself to do something. With a huff he lent forwards slightly and he took off to catch up with the group, having steeled himself.
"I know I'm going to regret this! Oh, wait for me!" Bokomon called out as he ran behind them, trying to catch up.
Upon entering through the gate, they got a peek at the Continent of Darkness. There were cliffs in the distance and a mass of dark trees, shadowed due to the lack of light. Along the tracks that the group was following were trees that were thick and compacted together. Despite the looks giving a creepy vibe there was some ambient noise that were similar to other forests. As they walked, Meredith found herself drawn to Takuya. Staying close to him made her feel safe.
'It kind of reminds me of the haunted house we went into once – a flame in the darkness.' Meredith found herself smiling slightly when she likened Takuya to a flame since he was the Warrior of Flames.
From the forest around them there was a caw that broke into the symphony of ambient noises. Nothing came from the trees or tried to ambush them. Everyone stayed vigilant, looking around them, waiting for something to come out of the thick trees. The creepy setting did get a few whimpers from Tommy, Zoe and J.P. but Koji just shushed them. Amelia held tight to Kyaromon, who didn't mind being held tight by her.
"I'm wondering, do you think Digimon could somehow end up being ghosts?" Tommy's question cause a chill to shoot down Zoe's spine.
Amelia paused, 'Should I bring up the fact that Juhimon was a ghost technically?'
Zoe gulped, "What kind of talk is that? Next, you'll start telling ghost stories."
J.P. grinned slightly and looked to Zoe, "It was a dark and stormy night, luckily there was this terrific guy there waiting to come to your rescue." He did lightened the mood a bit… even though it was to boost his ego.
Zoe sighed, "Give me a break."
Meredith glanced back, "It's not funny, J.P."
Everyone stopped because something started to move in front of them. Fear struck and sent them moving quickly to hide. There was a screech and Meredith hugged DemiVeemon tighter and Tommy had latched onto Takuya. Zoe had latched onto the closest person which happened to be Koji. Amelia automatically reached for her D-Tector, but hadn't reacted further than that.
Takuya stared at Tommy, "Tommy, it's just the wind."
Meredith gave an uneasy laugh, but patted Tommy's head. Meanwhile Zoe realized what she had done and was blushing. She released Koji quickly and moved away from him. He just stood there, staring forwards.
"Oh, sorry about that." Zoe had her arms pulled to her chest.
Koji sighed, "No problem."
"Is it safe?" Neemon asked it as he hung from Kyle's neck.
J.P. groaned from his place on the ground – Bokomon clung tightly to the big guy's leg. The beetle boy turned over onto his side, "Stop acting like my Aunt Mable's dog!"
Bokomon clung a bit tighter, "Aunt Mable's Dog would of turn tails and gone now!"
Takuya, Zoe and Koji looked to J.P. and Bokomon.
"Huh?" Zoe was taken aback.
"We're not going back. We've all been walking for hours." Takuya's words were firm.
Bokomon remained latched on, "Let's walk back a few hours and then we can all get ourselves all out of this poor excuse for dark closet once and for all." The poor chicken digimon was trying so hard to pull everyone out, but he had to admit they've all come so far.
Tommy was watching behind them when there was a crash – granted it did sound like thunder. Koji and Zoe looked behind them while Takuya still looked at J.P. and Bokomon. Amelia scanned their surroundings, but ended up looking where Tommy was staring – noticing what he did.
Tommy pointed down the tracks, "He-hey guys? Something's glowing."
Down the tracks were orbs of green. The orbs lit the area up only slightly – barely. They weren't even able to see anything around the orbs besides the other orbs of light. The lights stayed still, but yet had no pattern. As everyone looked to the orbs J.P. stood up.
"Fireflies?" J.P. questioned as he stared at the lights.
Koji surveyed the lights, "Maybe there's a town up ahead."
"Should we go to the lights?" Kyle asked the question hesitantly.
"Come on, let's check it out." Takuya set his face into determination.
Meredith nodded, "Right."
Meredith followed Takuya. Koji didn't hesitate to walk forwards either – Tommy and J.P. did have some hesitance to go towards the light though. Zoe kept pace with Tommy and J.P. Amelia stood still but after Kyle started to follow them she walked to since she didn't want to be left behind. Neemon dropped off of Kyle's neck when he had started to walk. Bokomon started to move yet again only when he was being left behind. Eyes were upon the group as they moved through, watching them..
: Demons :
Barbamon glared and slammed his fist into the wall, a growl of annoyance slipped. The wall cracked from the force behind the punch.
"How did Cherubimon know that I had Seraphimon's Fractal Code?" Barbamon's voice rumbled, anger dripping from his words. He kept that secret to himself. His so-called "comrades" weren't stupid enough to tattle on him; were they? If they did, he would have a few words alone with them.
"Uh-huh." The voice came from the darkness that was farther down the rock hallway.
Barbamon turned, "Duskmon." The tone that Barbamon took was clearly one of annoyance. Also known as Cherubimon's main dog. If the Dark Master ordered Duskmon to speak, he'd gladly bark. He is considered to be the known favorite.
Duskmon didn't flinch at the Demon's anger, "I was clearing my throat."
Barbamon sneered, "Sure you were."
Duskmon smirked slightly, granted it was veiled in shadows, "Well, aren't you self-centered."
"Your absence didn't go unnoticed at the meeting." Barbamon's words veiled a hidden hint of a threat.
Duskmon approached a bit closer, remaining in the shadows though, "Just because Cherubimon gets you three to obey his requests, doesn't mean you are truly loyal to him."
The tone that Duskmon took caused Barbamon to stiffen slightly. He narrowed his eyes at Duskmon shifted his staff in the dark Digimon's general direction. A flicker of light within the crystal at the top of the staff barely got a glance from Duskmon.
"Quiet." Barbamon hissed the words.
"Do you deny it?" Duskmon disregarded Barbamon's hiss as he pressed the issue. Man, does he want to punch Duskmon's know-it-all face.
"You have no right to question our loyalty – we've fought for him unlike you." Barbamon shrugged, "Perhaps you fear the puny humans." Not once did he see him fight against those pesky brats.
Duskmon smirked, "I see what you're doing. Getting Lilithmon and Beelzemon to do the menial labor while you wait for the right moment to strike."
Barbamon shrugged once more, "For someone who hasn't done anything, those words mean nothing."
Duskmon turned away from Barbamon and began down the hallway.
"As per usual, running away." Barbamon's taunt carried, echoed slightly.
Duskmon didn't react though – he just continued walking down the hallway. Barbamon watched as the Warrior of Darkness disappeared into the darkness. The Demon of Greed gripped his staff tightly and remained in place, staring for a couple of moments.
"Something needs to change, he knows too much." Barbamon turned away from the darkness that Duskmon had disappeared down.
Duskmon stood on top of the coral like structure that the Demons called their base. Staring out at the horizon and down at the clouds, Duskmon was deep in thought. Curling his hands into a fist he made up his mind.
"Maybe I should get out and fight. After all, those young humans are becoming quite an annoyance. They need to be restrained." Duskmon's voice carried the threat and reflected his decision – he didn't move or tear his eyes from the horizon though.
: The Gang :
After a couple of moments of staring the group started to approach the lights. They were running towards the light – Takuya and Koji leading the group. When they arrived at the source of the light everyone was surprised.
"Whoa, look at that." Takuya stared in awe.
On the ground around them was moss. Light radiated from it.
Koji looked over the moss, "That moss is actually glowing. Wonder if it's safe to touch."
"Let's see." J.P. bent down and picked some up, "Sure is. We can use it to light our way." Smiling J.P. laughed.
Amelia shook her head, 'I don't even want to know what would've happened if it hadn't been.'
Zoe looked to J.P. as the others picked up lumps of moss. No one hesitated in picking up the glowing moss besides Amelia. Amelia eyed it for a moment wearily before picking up a clump – granted she also went for the smallest clump. With their clumps of glowing moss, the group began to walk once more – their surroundings weren't as dark as they had been though thanks to the glowing moss.
Tommy stared at his moss, "Wow, this stuff works great!"
"Look, it's a cave." J.P. called it out as said cave came into sight.
The group approached the cave but no one entered it. The moss' light didn't go too far into the cave either. With only so much being seen, no one was making a brave step forwards into the cave.
"It's almost too perfect. Like it was dug it out by someone." There was a hint of unease in Zoe's words.
Tommy nodded, "Or dug out by something."
"Hey! Anybody in there?!" Takuya shouted the words into the darkness of the cave.
They all watched the cave, waiting. They were waiting for some kind of response but moments passed by. Nothing responded. Nothing shifted. Nothing made a sound. Nothing charged out at them either, much to their relief.
"I guess not." Seconds after the words left Zoe's mouth Bokomon screamed.
Bokomon's terrified scream had everyone looking to him. The white Digimon was whimpering and on the ground.
"Bokomon, what is it?" Takuya was worried seeing Bokomon cowering on the ground.
Bokomon shook, "I feel like this place is a ghost cabin, full of evil ectoplasmic Digi-Spirits. I knew I should've stayed behind, but did I listen to myself? No!"
Kyle crouched beside Bokomon, "We'd protect you, you know that Bokomon?"
Bokomon looked to Kyle, only to see that he was giving a comforting smile to him. As most watched the exchanged Tommy looked back the way they came – something having caught his attention. He stared into the darkness and his observing paid off – a shadow moved behind one of the trees. The quick movements had caught the others attention that time though so everyone was looking. Well, Bokomon was now cowering behind Kyle.
"Huh? Did you guys see that?" Even with everyone having reacted Tommy asked the question.
"Who's there?! Show yourself!" Takuya called out to whatever had made the noise.
"Who's there?! Show yourself!" The voice came from the trees that was in front them yet it was out of the light.
J.P. stepped forwards, "What are ya?! A parrot?!"
"What are ya?! A parrot?!" The mimicking of J.P.'s words was returned not once but multiple times.
The group had clumped together, staring into the distance. They all were trying to see what was mimicking them.
"Knock it off!" Tommy cried it out to whatever was mimicking them.
"Knock it off!" Just like J.P.'s words, Tommy's words were repeated multiple times – all around them.
Bokomon whimpered, "Oh, they'll mock us until we all go insane! We're doomed, doomed I tell you!"
Zoe smiled slightly – an idea in her head, "Hey I know. Beetles, battle better in butter!"
"Beetles, battle better in butter!" The words came back – perfectly.
Zoe grinned widely, "Just as I thought."
Takuya looked to Zoe, "That's great. You wanna clue us in?"
Zoe turned her head to look at Takuya and Koji, "They're repeating what we say, so let's confuse them with tongue twisters."
Meredith stared at Zoe, "You've got to be kidding me."
"If they're repeating us, won't you just confuse yourself?" Amelia asked since she found the idea kind of crazy.
Meredith nodded, agreeing with Amelia. Despite their viewpoint on though, the others went on. Takuya, Tommy, and J.P. participated. As expected though when J.P. messed up as did they – repeating his mistake.
Meredith rolled her eyes, "Guys, this isn't working, and it's embarrassing."
Tommy nodded, annoyed, "Meredith's right. We just can't trip them up."
Koji was annoyed, "Oh yeah?!" In a fluid motion, he threw his moss into the trees.
The moss hit the trees and exploded – sending clumps of glowing moss everywhere. With the moss dispersing out the light was dispersed as well and lit the area up that it had hit. Hanging upside down on the trees were bat like Digimon. Bokomon looked to see what had been taunting them and he was surprised to see the bat Digimon.
"My goodness, those creatures are Pipismon. They're mutant Digimon whose power is greatest in the dark. They can reflect sound back exactly as it's heard." Bokomon couldn't help the stunned tone he took as he explained Pipismon.
The Pipismon released their hold on the tree and took flight, flying towards the group in a cluster. The cluster flew over the group's head as they watched them. Unsurprisingly the Pipismon retreated into the cave that the group had been standing in front. Seeing as they weren't harmful Digimon the group entered the cave after the Pipismon – the bat Digimon were perched on the ceiling where one of them was cleaning its fur by licking it.
Bokomon stepped into the middle of the group, holding the Digi Egg, "For cave dwelling Digimon, they're really rather gentle. Even if they are a bit scary-looking."
Kyle grinned, "They're pretty cool."
Amelia couldn't resist it and she reached up towards a Pipismon that hung upside down from the ceiling. The Pipismon moved towards her outstretched hand which made her smile and she scratched its chin. The Pipismon let out a coo and leaned into it more.
Zoe smiled at the interaction, "Well just between us, I think they're kinda cute."
Kyaromon pouted though seeing the scene, unlike Zoe. Kyaromon glared at the Pipismon as he wrapped his tail around Amelia's neck since he was perched on her shoulder.
"I think they're kinda cute. I think they're kinda cute." Annoyance didn't come with the Pipismon repeating the words this time. Oh great, the comment boosts up their egos.
Meredith also reached up, petting one of the Pipismon. The Pipismon were enjoying the attention that they were getting from the two girls.
"Just look at their sweet faces, they're not scary at all." Meredith was smiling away – DemiVeemon who she was holding though shared a look with Kyaromon.
Yes. Both of them were jealous of the attention that the Pipismon were getting.
Bokomon smiled, "I'm amazed to find peaceful Digimon in such a dark place."
Takuya smiled and to small step forwards, "So I guess it turns out you're glad you came."
"Wha?" Bokomon had turned to look at Takuya, confused.
The gogglehead looked to him, "You just learned something. If you hadn't come, you'd never have known about this. It's good that you took a risk."
Koji smiled and looked to Bokomon, "If you're not sure about something, there's really only one way to find out. That's to take a risk and go experience it for yourself."
Bokomon looked to Takuya, "Well bless my buttons," he looked back to Koji, "you're right."
Takuya grinned happily and proudly, "Why don't you write it down in the book? You'll be the first Digimon to chronicle the Continent of Darkness. You'll be famous."
Bokomon stared at him before blinking, "Ah.. well, I... really?"
Zoe and Tommy turned to look to Bokomon. They were all looking at the white Digimon – minus Meredith and Amelia.
Zoe grinned widely, "Sure, and since you're writing about Digimon, you can write about us. The true adventures of the Legendary Warriors."
Meredith turned towards, "You could write about the Beast Spirits – the control and peace that some of us found."
Tommy nodded and smile eagerly, "I'd like to be mentioned. You can write about my cool hat."
"And mention how fearless I am!" After J.P.'s words Bokomon turned around and grinned confidently.
Bokomon rested his on the egg, "Alright then, I'll do it. Today I'll begin the greatest novel of all time: the Legendary Warriors in the Continent of Darkness!"
Neemon stepped up beside Bokomon, "So, will you write about me as well?"
"I think not." Bokomon reached over and snapped the waistband.
Despite how common the interaction between the two seemed to be they laughed while Neemon looked confused. They were surrounded the light that was cast from the glowing moss while Amelia turned from the Pipismon – reaching up and scratching Kyaromon's head.
"Well a great novelist needs great material, so let's continue on our journey into the unknown." Bokomon was ready to go which was quite a change of tune from earlier.
"Sounds great." Takuya was raring to go.
"Let's go!" The shout was a chorus of everyone's voice.
Meredith and Amelia both left the cave so they were back with the group, however, all attention turned to a tree that fell. Dust was kicked up from the tree. Thanks to the dust it was hard to see and Koji choked on some of the dust. The Pipismon got frightened as well and left the cave so they could escape into the sky.
"Why leave before the party even starts?" Beelzemon's voice cut through the air and made them stiffen slightly.
Takuya turned towards his voice though, "Huh? Yeah, says who?!"
Beelzemon laughed, "You know who."
Bokomon backed away, "Oh, ho, ho, ho, ho, not Beelzemon again!"
"Hey, someone is smart!" Beelzemon cracked up laughing. Oh yes, be very afraid of the big, bad demon.
Beelzemon stopped laughing in a split second and had raised his gun. There was barely any warning before he fired. The bullets headed straight for Amelia and fear tore through her – on instinct she ducked down and covered her head. The bullets missed her but she didn't move besides the slight quake of her limbs.
"It's on now!" Koji shouted as he pulled out his D-Tector.
Takuya stared Beelzemon down, "Right. Let's do it!"
"Execute Beast Spirit Evolution!" The whole group, including a still shaken Amelia, scanned their Fractal Code.
"BurningGreymon!"
"KendoGarurumon!"
"MetalKabuterimon!"
"Zephyrmon!"
"Korikakumon!"
"Terramon!"
"Sirenamon!"
"Juhimon."
Together the group stood as their Beast Spirits – standing out from their bleak surroundings. Juhimon was the smallest of the group but was staring Beelzemon down just as intently as the others were.
"You know what I think, it's purification time! You're all aggression and no strength." MetalKabuterimon rumbled the words out.
Beelzemon growled as he released a rapid fire of bullets from both of his guns. Dodging the attacks BurningGreymon, Zephyrmon, Korikakumon and Sirenamon jumped. MetalKabuterimon, KendoGarurumon, and Terramon dodged to the side. Juhimon lucked out and was small enough that the shots flew over her head – she kinda sat in place and snickered.
"Talk about trigger happy." BurningGreymon watched as Beelzemon glared at them – stopping his on slaughter so he didn't waste his strength.
"You haven't seen anything yet." Beelzemon smirked as he declared the words – data started to spark around his right arm.
"Right! Bolo Thunder!" MetalKabuterimon's attack crashed into Beelzemon but all that came from the dust that was kicked up was laughter.
Dust was cleared away by a strong gust and everyone stared at Beelzemon. Black crow wings had sprouted from his back while he only wielded one gun now. His right arm was surrounded by a machine of sorts that threw everyone off guard.
"Not good!" Bokomon screamed the words – terrified.
Beelzemon smirked, "My turn," Beelzemon looked to MetalKabuterimon and aimed the machine at him.
The tip of the machine that they had thought looked like a mouth opened as if it was a mouth. Energy sparked within it before forming into a sphere.
"Oh boy!" MetalKabuterimon moved quickly.
MetalKabuterimon froze when the blaster that Beelzemon now wielded discharged the energy shot. The shot wasn't just a simple sphere but laser like – it tore through where he had been and almost clipped MetalKabuterimon. Beelzemon staggered slightly from the discharge.
"Pyro Barrage!" BurningGreymon released his attack quickly – taking advantage of Beelzemon being off balanced.
"Plasma Pods!" Zephyrmon dove in and hit him.
Beelzemon crashed to the ground as Zephyrmon retreated. Instead of trying to get up though he aimed the blaster at Zephyrmon and another energy shot charged up quickly.
"Howling Star!" KendoGarurumon slammed into Beelzemon's arm.
While Beelzemon's arm got cut the blaster's direction shifted. The shift caused the shot that came seconds later to shoot past Zephyrmon. Beelzemon sneered and slashed KendoGarurumon with his claw. KendoGarurumon retreated with scratches upon his armor.
"Tempest Wing!" Sirenamon flew past KendoGarurumon with water coated wings.
Sirenamon flew full speed into Beelzemon – he staggered due to the uneven balance of weight due to his upgraded gun. Sirenamon retreated quickly when Beelzemon reached out to grab her.
"Frozen Arrowheads!" Korikakumon used the attack to grab ahold of Beelzemon's arm and throw him into a tree.
Beelzemon was released from Korikakumon's attack before he slammed into the tree. The Demon growled though and stood up. Placing his hand on the blaster he leveled it even with KendoGarurumon, Korikakumon and Terramon since they had clumped together.
"Corona Destroyer." The bullet passed through a magical circle that had appeared – the shot broke into multiple different shots.
They hadn't expected the shot to branch off so KendoGarurumon, Korikakumon and Terramon were all struck. The three boys crashed to the ground – disorientated, aching and winded. Sirenamon, who had been close to the boys, had been clipped by the attack. Grasping her arm that had been hit, she stared at Beelzemon.
Sirenamon was alarmed, 'One attack knocked them down!'
Juhimon pounced on Beelzemon, dropping from the tree that he stood below. Juhimon barely got to start her quick dance when Beelzemon managed to grab ahold of her tails. Her stared wide eyed at Demon of Gluttony, who only smirked. The Beast of Wood let out a scream as she was thrown through the air and since she was unable to gain control, Beelzemon hit her directly with one of his charged shots. Juhimon hit the ground and cracks spread across her wooden body.
The battle had a spectator. The spectator floated in the sky a good distance away but they were close enough to see the battle clearly.
"Eight Legendary Warriors, and that's the best they can do?" Duskmon sounded disappointed as he watched the battle.
Beelzemon took the sky and positioned himself higher than BurningGreymon and Zephyrmon. Smirking, the Demon aimed downwards and another circle appeared. As he chuckled seeing the panicked reactions from the warriors that were barely picking themselves up he shot.
"Hang on, guys! Wildfire Tsunami!" BurningGreymon's attack didn't stop the attack like he had hoped but instead caused it to split apart.
The splintered attack spread farther out and instead of just nailing BurningGreymon and Zephyrmon like it would've originally it hit everyone. Knocked to the ground and disorientated, but with their Beast Spirit Evolution still intact thanks to the Beast of Flames' attack having at least burned away some of its strength.
Beelzemon broke into full bull laughter, "You humans aren't worth the Beast Spirits! Give them to me and they'll be put to good use!"
BurningGreymon looked up to Beelzemon, "Never! If you want these Spirits, then you're gonna have to come here and take 'em!"
BurningGreymon pushed himself up but MetalKabuterimon and Korikakumon righted themselves at the same time as BurningGreymon. Zephyrmon, KendoGarurumon and Terramon followed suit after them. Sirenamon and Juhimon were the last two to recover but they still stood, ready to fight despite their shape.
Beelzemon aimed at them, "That can be arranged."
"Lupine Laser!" KendoGarurumon's attack struck Beelzemon and stopped him from firing at them.
"Electron Cannon!" MetalKabuterimon's attack was blocked with the blaster but even blocked it tore into Beelzemon.
Beelzemon sparked ever so slightly and due to being slightly paralyzed he dropped from the sky. Seeing the chance Terramon charged forwards and just as Beelzemon was about to hit the ground, the Beast of Earth charged straight into him. The Demon was thrown up, back into the air, by Terramon rearing back.
"Wildfire Tsunami!"
"Aurora Waves!"
"Hurricane Gale!"
The attacks combined together. BurningGreymon's Wildfire Tsunami burned hotter thanks to Zephyrmon's Hurricane Gale. Hurricane Gale hadn't disappeared though but wrapped around the fire. Despite Aurora Waves being water it didn't dampen the strength of the flames – it had wrapped around the flames in a vortex that wasn't touching the flames at all. The combined attack consumed Beelzemon and when the attacks fully dissipated and allowed Beelzemon to be seen once again his wings and the blaster was gone.
Before there could be any celebration of having defeated Beelzemon, out from the forest came a Digimon with black armor that had eyes located in odd places – shoulder pauldrons, middle of the chest, knees, and even his feet. All attention turned to the new arrival.
Beelzemon growled at him, "Duskmon."
Duskmon stared down at the group and the group stared him back. No one moved to attack and no one wanted to break the staring contest first. Tensions began to peak.
"Who is that?" Zephyrmon spoke up, breaking the silence.
Beelzemon stood, "Unwanted help." He turned to look at Duskmon who stood behind him.
"Wrong." A red blade came from Duskmon's right head shaped gauntlet, "You showed your incompetence, so there's no real use for you now, is there?"
"Why you p-" Beelzemon stopped – having not even been able to react.
Beelzemon fell to his knee as Duskmon's attack fully caught up. Seeing what had just happened before them the gang was surprised – they also gave a surprised and confused gasp. A ring of Fractal Code appeared around Beelzemon.
"I knew trusting you was a mistake." Those were the last words from Beelzemon before he faded away into just being Fractal Code.
Duskmon raised his left arm – the Fractal Code that was Beelzemon left from around the DigiEgg and went into his mouth gauntlet. The DigiEgg floated up into the sky unhindered by anyone one.
BurningGreymon couldn't believe what he had just seen, "He destroyed his own friend."
Sirenamon shook her head, "I don't think he was his friend."
The standoff didn't break even with what had happened to Beelzemon. The gang was more on guard than they had been though. That new guy destroyed his "comrade" like a pest; an insect underneath his shoes. And they became more uneasy with how swift Duskmon's attack was. One cut and it's game over. Facing this guys could be their toughest opponent yet.
Ok, I'm confused. Just which side is this guy on, anyway? Guess we'll find out on the next Digimon: Digital Monsters!