Book 7: Going Digital
Chapter 3: The Search for the Forbidden Land
Union Office, Digi-Central, Digital World
Daytime
After returning to Digi-Central by using Training Peak's Warp Gate, they immediately head for the Observer Room within Union Office to meet with Azulongmon for the mission report, while their Digimon partners rested inside their Tamers' respective Digivices.
"Thank you for the report, Xross Drive Rebellion." Azulongmon said after hearing the report. "With your actions, the wild Digimon living in Training Peak can roam around in their natural habitats safely. The other Normal Tamers are also free to explore the area without any trouble. Although I was not expecting BlackAgumon digivolving into a DarkTyrannomon."
"Mhm." Zeo nodded. "I'm just lucky Yuji gave me a Digivolve Disk to even the odds."
"Ah, Yuji. The Gold Tamer. He's a promising and noble Tamer with plenty of potential. In fact, he was one of the first ten Tamers to visit Digital World."
"For real?" Kanade responded with surprise. "That explains his Perfect Level Digimon partner."
"Guess it's going to be a while to catch up to his rank." Gaius said.
"As long as you take good care of your Digimon, the road to becoming a Platinum Tamer will soon be within your reach." Azulongmon said. "With that in mind, show me your Digivices, Tamers."
Under Azulongmon's request, the team raised their Digivices. "In thy name of the Observer for the Normal Tamers…" The Digivices began to flash as their status screens showed a bronze symbol each. "I hereby promote the six of you into Bronze Tamers. Congratulations."
"Thank you, Azulongmon!" The team bowed with gratitude.
"It's my pleasure." Azulongmon smiled. "With your new rank, you now have the ability to command Adult Level Digimon. You're gonna need it if you're planning to promote into Silver Tamers. And that decision will be judged by the Observer of the Bronze Tamers."
"I wonder what the next Observer will look like?" Serena pondered.
"You'll have to find out for yourselves. Unfortunately, he's currently busy at the moment, so he won't be back for a while."
"He's not here?" Akira questioned. "Where did he go?"
"Remember when you mentioned your missing friends and the Gjallarhorn fragment?" Clavis Angemon spoke up. "After you left for Training Peak, I contacted the other Observers to search the other areas for them. Azulongmon will also join the search after this meeting. But not to worry, I'll contact the Bronze Tamer Observer to return to Union Office later on so he can carry on with his normal duty."
"Ah, that explains it." Akira noted. "And thanks, by the way. Be sure to let us know if you and the Observers found something."
"We'll be in touch." Azulongmon nodded. "Now then, I must leave immediately to begin my search in the east."
"Best of luck!" Zeo gave a thumbs up, earning a nod from Azulongmon as he vanished.
"Now then, there's some news I'd like to share with you." Clavis Angemon said.
"What's up?" Kanade asked.
"Thanks to Copen and Bronya, we were able to set up a comms link with your commander from S.O.N.G HQ. We've already told him about what you've shared with Tamer Union and your safety. Needless to say, he was glad that your team arrived in the Digital World safely and has accepted our alliance."
"That's great news!" Miku smiled.
"Indeed." Clavis Angemon nodded. "In addition, the address from Digi-Central to S.O.N.G HQ has been implemented for the Warp Gate, so no need to travel through the data tunnels like last time. Give me a moment to send you the address." He then pushed a few buttons on his console, causing the Digivices to ring which made the team have a look. "There you go. As long as you use your Digivice, you're free to use the address."
"Thank you, fast travel." Akira grinned.
"At least we can return to the real world safely." Serena added.
"Indeed. Our lives in the real world are just as important as being Tamers." Gaius stated.
"That is correct." Clavis Angemon nodded. "For now, you're free to do whatever you wish. Once the Observer for the Bronze Tamer returns, I'll contact you to meet in the Observer Room."
"Understood, sir." Zeo replied as he and the others saluted. "We'll be leaving now."
"Mm, you're dismissed." Clavis Angemon nodded and saluted before the team left the room.
"So, what do we do next, Zeo?" Kanade asked after they left Union Office.
"It'll be a long while before Hibiki and the others are found." Zeo replied. "Until then, we're going to walk the path of a Tamer and help the other Digimon."
"But first, we're going to get something to eat." Akira said.
"Yeah, we could use that as our break from our mission." Miku agreed.
"Let's bring some leftovers for our Digimon training in the Digi-Farm. They could use a break, too." Serena said.
"Good idea, Serena-chan." Miku nodded.
"I know a place where we can eat. Tamer Plaza." Gaius said. "From the Gate Area, head west. You'll find the plaza there."
"Then let's get going." Kanade declared as they head for the Gate Area. And after taking the west path, they saw a large tavern that is considered to be Tamer Plaza.
Once they entered the plaza, they saw that the two-storey building was bustling with Tamers and their Digimon partners, having meals and their own conversations.
"Wow, this place is kinda packed." Kanade observed. "There's gotta be an empty table around here we could use."
"Hey, guys! Over here!"
They turned to the source of the voice coming from their right where they saw Kiana waving near the table. The rest of the team were also sitting near her, except for Copen who was absent.
"We saved a spot for you guys." Houki gestured to the six empty seats. "Have a seat."
"Thank you." Zeo replied as the six took the vacant seats.
"So, how did the Tamer registrations go?" Gaius asked Kiana's group.
"Pretty smoothly without any issue." Cecilia replied.
"We've also got our own Digivices and Digimon partners." Gunvolt added, as he and the others showed their own Digivice-Vs.
"Good to know." Gaius noted. "And after that, you went to Data Forest to train your partners?"
"Yup." Kiana nodded. "Even earned plenty of scan data of the Digimons living there. After we have our lunch, we're heading for Training Peak to fight the stronger ones."
"So what was the mission you had to do?" Bronya asked Zeo's group.
"Wild Digimon trouble at Training Peak." Akira replied. "It was a BlackAgumon… that suddenly Digivolved into DarkTyrannomon, an Adult Level."
"You fought an Adult Level Digimon?!" Houki gasped.
"Actually it was me and Zubamon. Although Hackmon fought BlackAgumon first." Zeo answered.
"Hackmon?" Cecilia repeated.
"My newest member of the party." Gaius replied, showing his new partner resting in his Digivice.
"Hmm… an impressive looking Digimon despite being a Child Level." Bronya observed.
"That's because his master is a Royal Knight named Gankoomon." Serena replied.
"And Gaius-san is going to help Hackmon become as strong as his master." Miku added.
"Sounds like an admirable goal." Houki remarked.
"Hey, Miku!"
"Hm?" Miku responded before turning around and saw her three academy classmates approaching. "Oh! Yumi, Kuriyo and Shiori!"
"...When did your friend circle became this large?" Yumi questioned with her eyebrow twitching. "Are you trying to be a bigger anime protagonist than Bikki?"
"...And here comes the 4th wall breaks from this girl." Zeo mentally sweatdropped.
"Umm… that's not it." Miku sweatdropped, rubbing the back of her neck.
"I don't think you should say something like that to her new friends." Shiori said to Yumi.
"Sorry about that." Kuriyo apologized and bowed to the team.
"It's fine." Serena replied. "Any friends of Miku are friends to us."
"But… who's Bikki?" Kanade asked.
"Oh, that's how I call Hibiki by nickname." Yumi answered.
"Wait, you're also friends with Hibiki?" Houki gasped.
"Well, yeah. She and Miku are our classmates after all."
"That would be Lydian Academy, correct?" Cecilia guessed, earning a nod from the three students.
"Anyway, did you guys manage to beat that jerk at Training Peak?" Yumi asked Zeo's group.
"Yep, problem solved. It was originally a BlackAgumon… until he digivolved into DarkTyrannomon." Zeo replied. "Good thing Yuji gave me a Digivolve Disk to even the odds."
"A DarkTyrannomon?" Kuriyo gulped. "Why did an Adult Level Digimon show up early?"
"You didn't get Bikki's curse, did you?" Yumi guessed.
"No, that's not it." Zeo, Gaius and Akira sweatdropped.
"On the bright side, at least Training Peak is safe to explore for beginners again." Serena stated.
"In fact, we're going to train there after we have our lunch." Kiana added.
"You can come with us, if you want." Miku offered. "I'm curious to know what Digimon you three have."
"Well, mine is a Bearmon, Kuriyo has Dracomon and Yumi got Kudamon." Shiori replied.
"Huh, those Digimon are good choices to start." Gaius remarked. "Also, we can help you train to be able to fight against the promotion examiners so you can become Bronze Tamers."
"Sounds like a plan!" Yumi smiled.
"Just take it nice and slow so you can keep up with us. It'll be worth it in the end." Gunvolt advised.
"Hai!" Yumi, Kuriyo and Shiori nodded.
"Come and have a seat with us. The food will arrive soon." Miku said.
"Looking forward to getting to know you three!" Kiana smiled.
"Thank you!" The three students replied and took their seats with the team as they wait for their food to arrive.
Zeo's Narration: It's been three days since S.O.N.G and Team XDR formed an alliance with Tamer Union. Unfortunately in those three days, there was still no sign of Hibiki and the others in the Digital World and cyberspace. Kanade and Serena even temporarily gave their relics to Dr. Kogure, using them as a waveform to detect signs of Hibiki's Gungnir and Maria's Airgetlam, but still no luck. However, he knew about a Digimon Administrator that might be able to help finding them, so he sent the admin a message. It'll take a long while for the admin to respond though, so we decided to help out the Digital World as Tamers to pass the time.
So far, most of the Rebellion now has their very own Digivices, Digimons, and Digi-Farms. And after training in Data Forest and Training Peak, most of our Digimon reached Child Level, which means I finally got myself an Agumon. In addition, our team, along with the three Lydian Academy students, are now promoted to Bronze Tamers, so we're ready to handle any Adult Level Digimon that showed up. Some of us already did more training so our Digimon can reach Adult level. Though it would be nice to go to the other areas of the Digital World. But as luck would have it, we're about to get our chance, which is why Gaius, sis and I, along with Kanade, Miku and Serena are in the Union's Observer Room, awaiting the arrival of the Observer for the Bronze Tamers.
Heh, I wonder how the Attuned will react to a large forest tortoise.
Observer Room, Union Office
Daytime
Three days later…
"Thank you for coming." Clavis Angemon spoke to the six Tamers that just arrived. "The Observer for the Bronze Tamers will arrive shortly. And like I said with Azulongmon, try not to offend the Sovereign Digimon."
"Don't worry, we won't do that." Kanade replied.
"Good." Clavis Angemon nodded before looking up. "Okay Ebonwumon, you're up!"
And soon enough, a large beige tortoise Digimon appeared, having two heads with brown plating and red eyes, a large forest on its back and floating beige energy orbs around him. "Ah, you must be the six Tamers from the Rebellion Azulongmon and Clavis Angemon mentioned. I am Ebonwumon, Observer of the Bronze Tamers and the Sovereign Digimon that guards the North."
Ebonwumon
Type: Vaccine
Level: Ultimate
"Holy crap, he's a lot bigger in real life!" Zeo thought.
"I wonder if he's bigger than Torterra?" Akira also thought.
"That is one huge tortoise…" Kanade remarked.
Ebonwumon chuckled in amusement. "First time seeing a tortoise this big?"
"Pretty much, Ebonwumon." Miku replied before bowing. "It's nice to meet you."
"Likewise." Ebonwumon replied back. "Now then, I've heard about your missing friends from Azulongmon and Clavis Angemon. I'm sorry to report that during my search in the North of the Digital World, I am unable to find them."
"I see…" Serena noted sadly.
"But do not despair, your friends will be found eventually. Just don't give up, we'll find a solution."
"Mm." Serena nodded. "I hope so."
"So, the mission you're gonna give us will grant us promotions into Silver Tamers?" Gaius asked.
"That is correct." Ebonwumon replied. "Recently, a young and talented Digimon researcher is missing."
"A missing person?" Kanade repeated.
"Yes. His name is Phil. We tried contacting him, but to no avail. Something must have happened to him, so it's your job to bring him back."
"You got it, Ebonwumon. We'll get it done." Zeo noted.
"I would suggest searching at Tamer Plaza for some clues on his whereabouts. Best of luck, Tamers of the Rebellion!"
"Yes, sir!" The six Tamers saluted before leaving the room.
As the team were about to leave Union Office, Copen and Bronya came out from another room and noticed them. "Hey, guys!" Copen greeted which garnered their attention.
"Hey, Ix and Bronya-chan!" Kanade greeted back. "What's up?"
"Have you seen a researcher named Phil? He didn't show up for an hour."
"Well what a coincidence. The Observer for the Bronze Tamers gave us a mission to look for him." Gaius said.
"Something must've happened to him, so we're going to Tamer Plaza and find some clues." Akira added.
"No wonder he never arrived." Bronya noted. "Permission to join your mission?"
"I don't see why not. More help is always nice." Zeo accepted. "Are your Digimon ready?"
"Ja." Bronya nodded. "Hagurumon could use the exercise."
"Gira the Tentomon is ready to fight as well." Copen said.
"Still can't believe you called your Tentomon, Gira." Akira commented.
"...It was Lola's idea."
"Hey, the name fits, you know!" Lola spoke from Copen's relic pendant.
"Anyway, if you're gonna look for Phil, you need to find her sister first." Copen suggested. "Her name is Ellie, and her partner Digimon is a Biyomon named Peory. Bronya and I met them before along with Phil yesterday."
"Alright, let's go find them first." Zeo declared as the group left Union Office.
Once outside, Bronya noticed a Biyomon waiting near a small fountain on the right. "Hm? Peory?"
"How can you tell?" Kanade asked.
"Because your Biyomon is still in your Digivice to avoid confusion when encountering similar Digimon." Bronya replied. "But the Bronya wonders why she's the only one here? Ellie only has one partner Digimon at the moment."
"This has plenty of red flags triggered. Always have a spare Digimon partner on hand." Lola said.
"Let's go see her." Akira said as they approached the Biyomon waiting at the fountain.
"Peory!" Copen called out which earned her attention.
"Oh! Copen and Bronya! What's going on?" Peory asked.
"Where is your Tamer Ellie?" Bronya asked back.
"Oh, well… she just left to look for Phil since she might know his whereabouts." Peory replied.
"Then why are you here?" Miku asked.
"You'll never know if Phil might return, so Ellie asked me to stay here in case he comes back."
"He's been gone for an hour, we cannot afford to wait for him." Copen stated. "Can you tell us which area Ellie went to?"
"Hmm… I believe she went to a place called Steamy Jungle. I'll send you the address, just in case."
"Thanks, Peory." Zeo replied. And thanks to the Biyomon, the address to Steamy Jungle has been added to their Digivices.
"You guys don't mind if I watch over Peory for a moment?" Serena asked.
"The Bronya will also stay with her." Bronya added.
"No problem. Keep her safe until we get back." Gaius replied.
"Of course." Bronya nodded.
"Best of luck out there!" Serena waved as the team left for the Gate Area.
Afterwards, the team were about to use the green Warp Gate to Steamy Jungle, until they noticed Kiana and Houki appearing from the Farm Gate. "Oh, hey guys! What's up?" Kiana greeted.
"We're heading for Steamy Jungle to look for a Tamer named Ellie." Zeo replied.
"Steamy Jungle… I've never been to that area before." Houki noted.
"Wanna come along and help us out? The more the merrier." Akira offered.
"Sure, we have time!" Kiana accepted with Houki nodding.
"Good, then let's get moving!" Miku declared as the team, along with Kiana and Houki, used the Warp Gate to travel to Steamy Jungle.
Steamy Jungle, Digital World
(Play BGM: Steamy Jungle - Digimon World DS OST)
Soon enough, they arrived at the area known as Steamy Jungle, filled with numerous trees and fruits all around.
"Well, this is a huge jungle." Kiana remarked as they looked at their surroundings. "Looks pretty though."
"I wonder what kinds of Digimon we'll find here?" Houki pondered.
"Probably some beasts or insects." Zeo answered.
"So how are we going to find Ellie?" Miku asked.
"She's a young Normal Tamer with long pink hair and eyes, and wears a pink long blouse with a white long shirt underneath and red shoes." Copen described.
"Wait, she's a Normal Tamer?!" Kanade questioned. "Is this okay for her to explore this area without a partner Digimon?"
"She should've brought along a spare Digimon to watch her back." Copen sighed. "And something tells me this jungle might have stronger Digimon than the ones we've visited before. A Normal Tamer might not have a chance to survive this area."
"You're not wrong about that, Ix." Gaius said. "Let's not waste time and find her immediately."
"Time to get to work, guys!" Zeo declared as the team sent out their Digimon partners out of their Digivices.
Zeo sent out Zubamon, Gaius with Hackmon, Akira with Lalamon, Kanade with Biyomon, Miku with Dorumon, Copen with Gira the Tentomon, Houki with Kotemon and lastly Kiana with Tailmon.
"Oh, a jungle area. I feel right at home with this." Gira remarked, looking at his surroundings.
Tentomon
Type: Vaccine
Level: Child
Tentomon is a bipedal ladybug with the black spots on his shell actually being small spikes, two long orange antennae on top of his head, his large green compound eyes staring ahead, his main arms tipped with a large black claw each, while the second pair are smaller but more normal arms rested beneath them, and his feet having three rounded claws on them.
"Just try not to fly too far. Gotta stick together, after all." Lola advised.
"Not to worry, I'll stay with the group." Gira replied.
"I hope I can hone my skills in this jungle compared to Training Peak." Kotemon said.
Kotemon
Type: Data
Level: Child
Kotemon is a small reptile Digimon in a kendo uniform that was just a size too big, a bamboo sword at the hip, horns coming out from the top of the head, a tail poking out the back, and two glowing yellow eyes behind the mask.
"You'll get your chance here, Hyuga. But be careful not to fight a Digimon you can't handle alone." Houki advised.
"I understand." Hyuga the Kotemon nodded.
"Talia, you up for an adventure in a new area?" Kiana asked.
"Always ready, Kiana!" Talia the Tailmon smiled.
Tailmon
Type: Vaccine
Level: Adult
Tailmon appears similar to a white Egyptian cat wearing large lime yellow and red striped gloves with black claws sticking out of them. Her ears are large with tufts of purple hair on the tips, and her tail has purple stripes with a tuft on the end along with a gold Holy Ring hanging on it.
"Figured you'd pick Salamon as your partner." Akira said to Kiana.
"Well, Talia and I had to train a lot so she could Digivolve into an Adult Level. I did check the Digi-Pedia, after all." Kiana replied. "I may be a cat person, but I don't mind puppies since they're cute. Also, I will not hesitate to go John Wick on the bastards that dare hurt them."
"Wait, your Digimon is an Adult Level?" Kanade questioned, earning a nod from Kiana. "But she looks small compared to ZubaEagermon and DarkTyrannomon."
"True, but looks can be deceiving." Biyomon stated. "One example is Piximon, who looks smaller than Tailmon, but is a Perfect Level Digimon."
"Really?" Miku gasped.
"Mhm, Biyomon's not kidding around." Dorumon confirmed.
"Huh, how about that." Kanade remarked.
"Anyway, let's get moving. We've got a Tamer to find." Gaius declared as they moved ahead.
The team then ventured through the jungle, looking at the exotic plants, climbing up vines, opening some chests, and encountering and defeating/scanning wild Digimon such as Wormmon, Floramon, Lopmon, Terriermon, Roachmon and Kuwagamon. Luckily, the latter two were easy to defeat despite being Adult Levels.
As the team nearly reached the end of the jungle, they suddenly heard a loud scream from a girl.
"Did you guys hear that?" Miku asked.
"I know that voice from anywhere." Copen frowned. "That has to be Ellie!"
"So where is she?" Kanade asked.
Houki looked at her surroundings until she noticed large spider webs leading upwards. "I think she might be up those large spider webs."
"So the one responsible is a spider Digimon?" Kiana guessed.
"No doubt about it." Akira confirmed.
"I can think of several Digimon that are spiders." Gira said. "I just hope it's not an Arukenimon, a Perfect Level. If it's a Dokugumon, an Adult Level, or a group of Kunemon or Dokunemon, which are Child Level, then we can handle them."
"Yeah… funny that you mentioned Arukenimon…" Gaius thought and sweatdropped.
"So what's the plan?" Biyomon asked.
"You and Gira will attack the kidnapper from behind, giving us a chance to rescue Ellie." Copen replied. "One of us will grab her and immediately use a Gate Disk back to Digi-Central where she'll be safe. Afterwards, we're free to use force."
"Leave the rescue to me, Ix." Akira raised her hand.
"I call dibs on kicking the kidnapper's face." Talia said.
"I see nothing wrong with that." Kiana smirked.
"Alright, we have our plan." Zeo nodded before facing Copen, Kanade and their partners. "Get in position."
"Roger." The four nodded before heading out.
"Now let's go confront the kidnapper." Houki declared as the team climbed up the large webs with Akira going first after returning Lalamon into her Digivice.
Meanwhile at the top of the webs, a girl with long pink hair and eyes named Ellie is shivering with fear, trying to free herself from her web entanglement caused by a spider Digimon who's grinning in anticipation for her meal. And said Digimon is called Arukenimon.
Arukenimon
Type: Virus
Level: Perfect
"Be still, my prey. You'll make a fascinating meal for my hunger." Arukenimon grinned as she moved closer to her trapped prey. But before she could touch her, she was suddenly struck in the back by spiral green flames and an electric shock, causing her to turn around in anger and see the flying Biyomon and Gira the Tentomon.
"Hey! Get your creepy crawly hands off the Tamer!" Biyomon shouted.
"You must have a death wish if you chose to attack me." Arukenimon said.
"Well we're not gonna wait for you to eat that Tamer!" Gira said.
"Then you both shall be my next meal! Spider Thread!" Arukenimon then launched spider webs from her hands, but said webs were immediately shredded by Copen's fast moving bits before they could touch the two Digimon. "Huh?!"
"Keep your webs away from our partners, you parasite." Copen said as he and Kanade in their battlesuits (the latter using her Wind Glider to fly), flew next to their partners.
"Who the hell are you?!" Arukenimon demanded.
"Just a passing-through Rebellion. And we're here to take that Tamer home." Kanade replied.
"Tch! That explains why those Digimon chose to boldly attack me." Arukenimon muttered. "No matter! You'll never take my prey away from me!"
"...About that." Copen smirked, pointing at the one behind the spider Digimon, causing her to turn around… and gasp in shock that her prey is about to be warped away by Akira.
"Ciao!" Akira smiled with a two-finger salute as she used a Gate Disk to warp Ellie and herself back to Digi-Central.
"My prey!" Arukenimon exclaimed as she was too late to grab them.
"Lightning Kick!"
And to add insult to injury, Arukenimon was suddenly kicked in the face by Talia, causing her to fall on her back while Talia landed in front of Kiana as the others arrived.
"Nicely done, guys!" Zeo gave a thumbs up to Copen, Kanade and their partners.
"Heh, we never disappoint!" Kanade grinned. "Go all out?"
"Go all out." Gaius replied as their Digimon partners prepared themselves while Arukenimon stood up again.
"Grr… meddling humans and their Digimon!" Arukenimon scowled. "Fine… If I cannot have my prey, no one will! Predation Spider!" Using her abdomen, she called forth groups of Dokugumon to protect herself.
Dokugumon
Type: Virus
Level: Adult
Kiana gulped at the sight of the Dokugumon swarm. "That's… a lot of spiders."
"We're gonna need a bigger flyswatter." Dorumon said.
"Any last words before my swarm overwhelms you?" Arukenimon asked.
"...Just this." Zeo smirked before facing Kanade. "Time for crowd control!"
"You heard him, Biyomon!" Kanade raised her Digivice that started to glow.
(Play BGM: Be the Winners - Digimon Adventure 2020)
"Loud and clear!" Biyomon nodded as she turned into a glowing energy cocoon. "Biyomon, Evolution!" Soon after, the cocoon burst open, revealing her new form which is now a large orange firebird with blue eyes, its mouth with protruding teeth and its two feet having five talons each. "Birdramon!"
Birdramon
Type: Vaccine
Level: Adult
"What?! She digivolved so quickly?!" Arukenimon exclaimed with wide eyes while Zubamon, Hackmon, Dorumon and Talia hopped onto their Tamers' arms.
"Meteor Wing"
"Meteor Wing!" Kanade ordered her partner to launch fireballs by flapping her wings as the fireballs struck the spider Digimons and webs, while everyone else quickly jumped off the web platform to avoid getting burned. With the webs completely burned, Arukenimon and her remaining swarm fell off into the jungle.
"That's enough, Birdramon. We can't risk a jungle fire." Copen said, causing the firebird to stop attacking.
"Alright, we'll leave it to you and the others." Birdramon replied.
"Gira, it's time!" Copen raised his Digivice that began to glow.
"Yes, sir!" Gira saluted as he was turned into an energy cocoon. "Tentomon, Evolution!" Seconds later, the cocoon bursts open, revealing his new form which is now a large blue flying bipedal insect Digimon with four arms, black muscles on his torso, arms and legs, no eyes on his head, has a black skull helmet with a long horn which resembled a rhinoceros beetle, two pairs of large bug wings on his upper back, and a black stinger on his pelvis. "Kabuterimon!"
Kabuterimon
Type: Vaccine
Level: Adult
"Now let's go hunt down the remaining swarm!" Copen declared as he, Kanade and their digivolved partners flew into the jungle to hunt down the spiders.
Back on the ground, Arukenimon was slowly regaining her footing after the long fall, only to notice in shock that her Dokugumon swarm were quickly being defeated one after another.
"Vantheon!" That was the sound of Zeo's digivolved partner ZubaEagermon, slicing through a few Dokugumon like a spinning buzzsaw.
"Fif Cross!" Another sound came from a Digimon attacking a few Dokugumon with its large claws.
"Lizard Dance!" Yet another sound came from another Digimon attacking with arm blades and a large sword.
"Power Metal!" And then a sudden large and fast iron sphere struck Arukenimon's face, sending her flying through several trees before crashing to an open area.
In agonizing pain from the sudden attack on her face, Arukenimon slowly stood up as she tried to open her eyes… until her eyes widen in shock at the sight of Gira the Kabuterimon who's about to launch a large purple electro ball at close range.
"Mega Blaster!" Gira then launched the electro ball before Arukenimon could retaliate as she was completely obliterated from the blast.
(BGM End)
"Good work, Gira. That should finish her off." Copen praised as he landed beside his partner while the other Tamers and their partners arrived. "Nicely done with the assault, guys." He praised the others while he and Kanade dispersed their battlesuits.
"You're welcome. A job done well is a job well done." Gaius replied before facing his partner. "How was the workout, BaoHuckmon?"
"Heh, felt pretty good, obviously. Especially against multiple Adult Level Digimon." Said the grinning BaoHuckmon, Gaius' digivolved partner.
BaoHuckmon
Type: Data
Level: Adult
BaoHuckmon looks the same as Hackmon but with a larger body, sharper claws, longer tail with the blade on his tip being sharper, and his hind limbs changing into blades instead of feet.
"You're not the only one who felt good kicking butt as an Adult Level, BaoHuckmon." ZubaEagermon grinned. "And this time, I don't need a Digivolve Disk to do it."
"Such is the results of our training, and it paid off." Said Dorugamon, Miku's digivolved partner.
Dorugamon
Type: Data
Level: Adult
Dorugamon is the same as Dorumon, but with a larger body and longer tail with his fur becoming a darker shade of purple with light purple lightning-stripes, sharper claws on his arms and feet in red instead of black, and larger wings that's covered in fur.
"Well said, Dorugamon. Well said." Said Hyuga the Dinohumon, Houki's digivolved partner.
Dinohumon
Type: Data
Level: Adult
Dinohumon is a green humanoid dragon with beige coloring on his chest, inner arms and the lower half of his face, purple eyes, brown stripes on his shoulders, wears a blue and purple indian headband with a feather at the back, purple pants and cloth on his ankles, a brown belt that holds his green sash at the front with purple symbols, brown wrist bands with blades, a purple scaled necklace, and two pairs purple scaled bangles on his wrist bands. He also has a small cleaver holstered on the back of his hip and a large single-edged sword known as Akinakes holstered on his back.
"You fought very well, Hyuga. Your swordsmanship is a sight to behold." Houki praised.
"You honor me with your words, Houki." Hyuga bowed.
"Would be nice if we could revert back to Child Level." Birdramon said. "Being a firebird is nice, but I'd like to be a Biyomon again."
"Actually, Phil and I are working on that function for the Digivices." Copen said.
"Wait, really?" Zeo responded.
"It's called a Return Chip, allowing a Digimon to degenerate into its previous Level, such as an Adult Level degenerating into a Child Level." Gira explained. "We recently prepared two prototypes for testing."
"Unfortunately, Phil is currently holding onto one of the prototypes." Copen added. "He was supposed to meet up with me at Tamer Office to begin testing. But since he's missing, this could be a huge problem."
"I see." Miku noted. "That would be bad if the prototype were in the wrong hands."
"All the more reason to find Phil as soon as possible." Kiana said.
"Although… I kinda like my new form." Talia looked at herself. "I don't plan on degenerating anytime soon."
"Don't worry partner, I won't force you." Kiana assured with a smile.
"Now then, let's return to Digi-Central and find Ellie and sis. Our work here is done." Zeo declared as they returned their Digimon partners into their Digivices. Then Zeo used a Gate Disk to return the group back to Digi-Central.
Digi-Central, Digital World
Upon arriving back at Digi-Central, they head to the fountain outside Union Office where they see Serena, Akira and Bronya, watching over Ellie who's reunited with her partner Peony.
"Oh, you're back!" Akira greeted the arrivals. "So, how'd it go with Arukenimon?"
"A complete curb-stomp." Zeo replied. "Even though she summoned her Dokugumon swarm, our team of Adult Level Digimon swept through them like wildfire."
"Oh, and don't worry about the jungle. My partner's flames didn't burn them, only the spiders and their webs." Kanade added.
"Thank goodness." Serena said with relief.
"Meanwhile after Ellie's return, the Bronya had to give her an earful not to go to a dangerous area alone, especially without a spare partner Digimon." Bronya said.
"Once again, I'm really sorry for troubling all of you." Ellie apologized with a bow. "I promise that it won't happen again."
"We'll be sure to ask you guys for help first next time." Peory added.
"You'd better." Copen noted. "Anyway, Peory said that you knew about Phil's whereabouts."
"Oh, that. He went to a place called the Forbidden Land to do a bit of research before meeting you." Ellie replied. "But I don't know how to get there, that's why I was searching for clues in Steamy Jungle."
"And he did it without letting me know…" Copen pinched the bridge of his nose in annoyance.
"Wait, did you just say the Forbidden Land?" Miku asked, earning a nod from Ellie.
"Isn't that the place DarkTyrannomon was heading to?" Kanade recalled.
"That's the one." Gaius nodded.
"Looks like we're going to have to split up and ask around for any information about the Forbidden Land." Bronya said. "The Bronya will search the net for clues."
"Understood." Zeo nodded. "Everyone, if you discover any info, give me a call."
"Roger!" The team nodded.
"Sis, Gaius, we're going to the Digi-Farm for a bit." Zeo said.
"Eh? What for?" Akira asked.
"You'll know when we get there." Zeo replied. "Alright. Good luck, everyone!"
With that, everyone went their separate ways to search for any info about the Forbidden Land while Zeo, Akira and Gaius went to Zeo's Digi-Farm using the Farm Gate at the Gate Area.
Zeo's Digi-Farm, Digi-Central
"Okay, we're here." Gaius said as he, Zeo and Akira arrived at the Digi-Farm. "So what is it you're gonna tell us?"
"Remember in the Digimon DS game where we have to meet DarkTyrannomon back at Training Peak so he can give us the address to an important item that's needed to go to the Forbidden Land?" Zeo recalled.
"Yes. He'd give us the address to Sheer Valley, where we'll find Pandamon who'll give us the item we need." Akira replied… before realization sets in. "...Oh crap, I just realized that the DarkTyrannomon we met already left for the Forbidden Land without giving us the address to Sheer Valley!"
"That's not good." Gaius frowned. "How are we supposed to get there now?"
Zeo thought for a moment until an idea came up. "...Perhaps there's another option. Hey, Calumon! Can we talk?"
"Coming, Zeo!" Calumon responded, flying towards the three. "What's up?"
"Do you happen to have the address to Sheer Valley? Because we need it for a mission from Ebonwumon." Zeo requested.
"Oh, from the Observer for the Bronze Tamers? Hold on." Calumon replied, materializing a holo-screen and checked the list. Moments later, he found what he was looking for. "Ah, there it is! Sheer Valley. I'll add the address to your Digivices now." With a few button presses on the screen, the address was sent to their Digivices before the screen vanished. "All done!"
"Calumon, you're a lifesaver! Thanks a lot!" Akira smiled.
"Anytime!" Calumon smiled back. "If you need any more of my help, please let me know."
"We'll be sure to remember that." Gaius replied. "Okay, we gotta go now."
"Good luck with the mission!" Calumon waved as the Tamers left the Digi-Farm.
Sheer Valley, Digital World
(Play BGM: Sheer Valley - Digimon World DS OST)
After using the Warp Gate at Digi-Central, Zeo, Akira and Gaius arrived at the area known as Sheer Valley. Like its namesake, the area is a large valley with wooden bridges and cliffs.
Zeo whistled at the view. "This place is really breathtaking in real life."
"Just try not to look down, especially if you don't have a flying Digimon." Akira advised. "Lucky for me, Lalamon has enough experience to digivolve into Sunflowmon, a Digimon that can fly."
"Yeah. While mine and Zeo's Digimon can only fly in their Perfect Levels." Gaius said.
"As soon as we finish this mission, we'll get that chance as we'll be promoted into Silver Tamers." Zeo stated as he and the others sent out their Digimon partners. "Now let's go find ourselves a panda Digimon."
"Hold on. Shouldn't we call in the others first?" ZubaEagermon asked.
"No need. We can handle this area ourselves." Zeo replied.
"He's right, ZubaEagermon." BaoHuckmon agreed. "You and I are more than enough to handle the Digimon living in this area."
"Ahem." Lalamon cleared her throat. "You guys didn't hear what Akira said earlier about me?"
"Oh, that." The two Adult Level Digimon noted.
"You know what, how about you digivolve now?" Akira raised her Digivice.
"Alright, if you say so." Lalamon nodded. "Go for it!"
Akira's digivice began to glow, turning Lalamon into an energy cocoon. "Lalamon, Evolution!" Seconds later, the cocoon burst open, revealing her new form to be a green bipedal creature with a slim body, stubby legs with green spikes as feet, long arms with three fingers on each hand and a pointy tail with flower spikes on it. Her head is yellow with a red, triangular mark on the forehead, a big mouth with an eerie smile, yellow petals, two black eyes, and has two V positioned leaf-shaped wings on her back. "Sunflowmon!"
Sunflowmon
Type: Data
Level: Adult
"Okay, now I'm ready!" Sunflowmon said while stretching her arms and tail.
"Let's go!" Zeo declared as they began venturing into the valley.
During the exploration which involved crossing bridges and climbing ladders, they encountered and fought/scanned the Digimon living in the valley consisting of Guilmon, Renamon, Airdramon, Tyrannomon, Dinohumon and Monzaemon. The latter was a Perfect Level, but they decided to leave it alone since it won't attack them unless it was provoked. Eventually, they reached the top of the valley and noticed a battle taking place at an open space which surprised them.
"Okay, that wasn't supposed to happen." Zeo said as they watched a battle between two Digimon; Pandamon and Kyubimon.
Pandamon
Type: Data
Level: Perfect
Pandamon is a living stuffed teddy bear, and looks like a panda hence his namesake, having a white head and torso as well as black limbs, circles around its eyes and ears, a white X-shaped bandage on his belly button and wears a red bandana around his neck.
Kyubimon
Type: Data
Level: Adult
Kyubimon is a yellow nine-tailed quadruped fox with a white mane and mystical blue flames flaring around her paws and tail tips. She also has a yin-yang symbol on her forehead and on each of her shoulders and thighs, and a large white and red rope around her neck with bells on each tip.
"Kyubimon… Renamon's Adult Level…" Akira observed the fox Digimon. "She looks beautiful up close."
"I wonder where she comes from?" Gaius pondered… until his eyes widened in shock when he looked to the right. "...Yae Sakura?!"
"Eh?!" Zeo and Akira exclaimed upon noticing one of their teammates with pink fluffy long hair and fox ears, and wearing a battle miko outfit.
"You guys know that woman?" BaoHuckmon asked.
"Yes, a miko who's a skilled swordsman." Gaius replied. "But how the heck did she find this area?"
"We'll ask her after the battle." Akira replied as they watched the fight. "...If Kyubimon doesn't accidentally kill Pandamon."
"At least we know who Sakura's Digimon partner is." Zeo said.
The battle then reached a stalemate as the two Digimon landed on opposite sides of the area, catching their breath.
"You're a formidable opponent, Pandamon." Kyubimon complimented. "But I feel like you're holding back your true strength. Is it because I'm an Adult Level instead of a Perfect Level?"
"No, it's not that. I actually admire your strength despite your current level." Pandamon replied. "It's just this nagging feeling in my brain that I can't get rid of."
"A nagging feeling?" Yae Sakura repeated. "Why didn't you say-" She paused as her fox ears began twitching, causing her to look around until she noticed the three leaders and their Digimon in surprise. "Zeo? Akira? Gaius? What are you three doing here in Sheer Valley?"
"We were going to ask you the same thing, Sakura." Akira replied.
"Nice Kyubimon, by the way." Gaius added.
"Thank you." Sakura smiled. "I raised her when she was just a Tanemon, then into a Renamon. And after I became a Bronze Tamer, I trained her into a Kyubimon. For her hard work, I granted her the name… Kyubei."
"And it was an honor to fight alongside my master." Kyubei the Kyubimon said.
"Oh? Friends of yours?" Pandamon asked the miko.
"Hai." Sakura nodded and gestured to her friends. "This is Zeo, Akira and Gaius, along with their partner Digimon."
"You must be Pandamon. It's an honor to meet you." Zeo greeted as he and the others bowed.
"Mm. Any friends of Yae Sakura are friends of mine." Pandamon nodded, until he noticed BaoHuckmon and approached him. "Hm?"
"Is there something on my face?" BaoHuckmon asked.
Pandamon took a closer look at BaoHuckmon. "Sorry to ask, but you wouldn't happen to be a Hackmon, would you?"
"That was my Child Level. I'm BaoHuckmon now. Why did you ask?"
Pandamon smiled at his answer. "Well I'll be. To think Gankoomon's student would grow to that level."
"Wait… you knew my master?!" BaoHuckmon gasped.
"Of course! He and I were old friends. We also tend to spar together at times, and we both have some wins and losses during those matches. You were only a Digi-Egg when I first saw you being taken care of by the Sistermons."
"Oh, you're talking about Sistermon Blanc, Noir and Ciel?"
"Ah, yes! Those three." Pandamon nodded. "I wonder where they are now?"
"Well… the last time I saw them and Master Gankoomon was after the latter sent me off on a journey around the Digital World to find the meaning of strength." BaoHuckmon replied. "Understanding what that means is key to becoming a Royal Knight just like him."
"Ah, so that's what you've been doing. So why are you here?"
"Do you happen to know something about the Forbidden Land? My Tamer friends are looking for a missing Digimon researcher named Phil. Ebonwumon from Tamer Union tasked us to find him."
"Hmm… a mission given by the Sovereign Digimon of the North…" Pandamon hummed with his hand on his chin. "You know, the Forbidden Land goes by another name very few knew about. And I happen to be one of those few."
"I feel like there's a catch to this." Gaius said.
(BGM End)
"Oho, so you are aware of what I'm about to say next." Pandamon smirked. "What is your name?"
"Gaius Cornell, BaoHuckmon's Tamer."
"He was the reason I was able to digivolve into my Adult Level." BaoHuckmon said. "Usually it'll take a very long time to digivolve, but a bond between Tamer and Digimon can make amazing things happen."
"And he took good care of you from the looks of it." Pandamon commented.
"Indeed he did." BaoHuckmon agreed. "So what was the next thing you're gonna ask about?"
"I'll tell you what the Forbidden Land is, if you can help me with something that's nagging on my mind."
"Does it involve a lost item or something?" ZubaEagermon guessed.
"Ah, no. It's not that." Pandamon replied. "There's this one question that I cannot solve alone. If you can answer it, then I'll tell you what the Forbidden Land is."
"A question, huh?" Gaius mused before nodding. "Alright, I'll help you with that."
"Good." Pandamon nodded back. "But first, let me give you a test to see if you're ready to answer my real question."
"Gotcha."
"Here's the test question. Greymon, GeoGreymon, which of those can Agumon digivolve into?"
"Oh, that's simple. Agumon can actually digivolve into either of them depending on his choice." Gaius answered.
"Correct!" Pandamon confirmed. "That was a good answer. Now to reveal my real question. Lalamon, Patamon, Tailmon, can you spot the difference between these three?"
Gaius pondered with his hand on his chin, until BaoHuckmon spoke up. "Oh wait, I know this one! Can I answer it instead?"
"Sure, partner." Gaius smiled.
"...The answer is Tailmon." BaoHuckmon answered.
"And why did you choose that answer?" Pandamon asked.
"Because Lalamon and Patamon are Child Levels, but Tailmon, despite looking like a Child Level, is actually an Adult Level."
Pandamon was silent for a moment, before laughing out loud. "Hahaha! Well done! You've just answered the question I've been struggling with for so long! As expected of Gankoomon's student!"
"Actually, I was able to get that answer by traveling with Gaius and his friends. Also, I've just met a Tailmon owned by Kiana back in Steamy Jungle." BaoHuckmon said.
"Ah, so that's how." Pandamon noted. "It seems as though luck is on your side."
"Something like that." BaoHuckmon smiled.
"Now then, as promised, I shall tell you what the Forbidden Land's other name. It's called… the Chrome Mine."
"The Forbidden Land… is a mining area?" Sakura asked.
"It's not just any mining area." Pandamon said. "Chrome Mine is special because it has rare materials not found in the other areas of the Digital World. One of those rare materials is Chrome Digizoid, the toughest metal in all of the Digital World, even stronger than titanium."
"Stronger than… titanium?!" Sakura gasped.
"That is correct, Sakura-sama." Kyubei confirmed. "Several Digimon I've heard wield Chrome Digizoid as armor or weapons."
"Interesting…" Sakura mused. "Do you have the address to Chrome Mine, Pandamon?"
"Actually, you'll need a very special item to gain access to Chrome Mine… the Digimental of Miracles." Pandamon replied.
"Wait, what did you say?!" Veemon suddenly came out of Gaius' Digivice upon hearing Pandamon's item. "The Digimental of Miracles?!"
"Oh, a Veemon! What a coincidence." Pandamon noticed.
"A Digimental?" Sakura tilted her head.
"A rare and ancient object with the ability to perform Armor Digivolution. But only a few Digimon can utilize the power of a Digimental. And Veemon is one of them." Pandamon explained.
"That's right!" Veemon confirmed. "You don't mind if we have it please?"
"Considering you helped me with my question, of course." Pandamon nodded. "Follow me to my hut."
The team then followed Pandamon as he led them to a small wooden hut. "Wait here, I'll go get it." He then went inside his hut to find the Digimental. Moments later, he came out with a gold object which has a crest on top on his paw. "Here you go, Veemon. I think this truly belongs to you."
"Thanks a lot, Pandamon!" Veemon smiled, taking the Digimental from him and examined it.
"You just got yourself a Royal Knight on your side, partner." BaoHuckmon smirked at Gaius.
"You bet." Gaius replied. "I'm sure Veemon will make use of this power well."
"So, did you feel any power coming from that Digimental?" Akira asked the blue Digimon.
"Hmm…" Veemon had a puzzling look on his face while examining the Digimental.
"What's wrong?" Sunflowmon asked.
"Call me crazy, but do Digimentals like this have their paint scratched off?"
"That's ridiculous!" Pandamon responded. "This specific Digimental is pure gold!"
"Here, take a closer look." Veemon then gave the Digimental to Pandamon as he took a deep inspection on it.
And once he found the scratched paint, his eyes widen in shock and anger with gritted teeth. "A fake…? They dare… steal something this sacred from me?!"
"No wonder I didn't feel any power from it." Veemon deduced.
"Yep. Just like what happened in the Digimon DS game, Pandamon got a fake Digimental while the real one is with the thief. And I can pretty much guess who that literal shithead is." Zeo thought.
"Are you usually home most of the time?" ZubaEagermon asked.
"Yes." Pandamon nodded. "I tend to go out a few times to train without straying too far away from my hut. I also tend to meditate and feel the warmth of nature, though I sometimes fall asleep by accident."
"Looks like the thief found that small opening and quietly swapped the real one with the fake." BaoHuckmon deduced.
"Ugh… I can't believe I got careless." Pandamon muttered. "And I don't know who the thief is."
"Hmm…" Sakura pondered with her hand on her chin. "I wonder…"
"Something on your mind?" Akira asked.
"While Kyubei and I are traversing to the top of the valley, three Digimon passed by." Sakura recalled.
"There were two Sukamons and one PlatinumSukamon." Kyubei described.
"I see no harm to me and Kyubei since they were minding their own business, but I did see PlatinumSukamon holding onto something gold and shiny."
"Gold and shiny…" Pandamon repeated… until his eyes widened in realization. "There's no mistaking it. That was the real Digimental of Miracles!"
"So that shiny living piece of crap stole it?!" Veemon exclaimed.
"Sure seems like it, partner." Gaius replied.
"I'd help you track them down, but I'm not sure if the Sukamons are still in the valley." Sakura said.
"They're already long gone by now." Pandamon replied. "...Fortunately, I happen to know their natural habitat."
"Let me guess. The sewers?" Zeo guessed.
"Correct. They live in an area called Drain Tunnel. Though it's not just Sukamons living there, there's also some other aquatic Digimon you need to watch out for, especially Dragomon who's a Perfect Level like I am."
"Then that's where we're going." Sakura noted.
"Wait, you're coming too, Sakura?" Akira asked.
"Those Sukamons stole a sacred item from Pandamon. I will not look away from this." Sakura replied.
"Wherever Sakura-sama goes, I will be right beside her. And I also want to administer divine judgement onto those thieves." Kyubei added.
"Heh, figured you'd say that." Pandamon smirked as he materialized a holo-screen and pushed a few buttons. Soon after, their Digivices ringed. "There. I've sent you the address to Drain Tunnel. And I've also activated a Warp Gate behind my hut that'll take you back to Digi-Central. GIve those thieves a good beating for me."
"Oh that, we can definitely do." Zeo replied as the Digimon returned to their respective Digivices. "Thanks for the help, Pandamon."
"Anytime, Tamers." Pandamon nodded before the group head for the Warp Gate behind the hut. Once they're gone, he took one more look at the fake Digimental on his paw, and smashed it to the ground. "At long last, the Digimental of Miracles are in good hands with Veemon and his Tamer friends." He then looked to the sky with a satisfied smile. "It won't be long till the Radiance of Miracles makes his return. And as for Gankoomon's student… with Gaius by his side, I think he'll do just fine."
Chapter 3: The Search for the Forbidden Land
END
Current Roster:
Zeo - ZubaEagermon
Akira - Sunflowmon
Gaius - BaoHuckmon and Veemon
Kanade - Birdramon
Serena - Patamon
Miku - Dorugamon
Yumi - Kudamon
Kuriyo - Dracomon
Shiori - Bearmon
Kiana - Talia the Tailmon
Bronya - Hagurumon
Copen - Gira the Kabuterimon
Houki - Hyuga the Dinohumon
Author's Note: And so begins the road to becoming Silver Tamers. And if you read Pandamon's words at the end, then I'm pretty sure you guys know who's coming in the next chapter, so it's off to Drain Tunnel, then Chrome Mine afterwards.
In the meantime, Team XDR has their Digimon partners reach their Adult Levels. I won't reveal all of them until they appear in a chapter. Plus, I even revealed the three Lydian students their Digimon partners, so now you know.
Alright, that's all for now. Stay safe and see you next chapter!