Book 7: Going Digital
Chapter 6: Redemption
Digi-Central, Digital World
Daytime
A new day has arrived in the Digital World as the team arrived at Digi-Central, consisting of Zeo, Akira, Gaius and Regina.
"Well, time for another new adventure while we train Pagumon to become as strong as a Perfect Level." Zeo said while stretching.
"Too bad Kanade, Serena and Miku can't come with us. They have things to do in the real world." Akira said.
"True, especially Serena and Miku with their Lydian Academy school work." Gaius said. "Though I dread for Hibiki, Kirika and Shirabe. There's going to be some remedial lessons for not showing up at the Academy. Don't know about Chris since she's free to graduate due to her school results."
"This year is Hibiki and Miku's final year at Lydian Academy, right?" Regina asked.
"Yes. And if they pass the exams, they get to graduate from the academy." Akira replied. "Meaning more time to help us on our missions."
"Though they still have their own lives so we can't bring them everytime." Zeo stated. "Think about Hibiki's family."
"Oh yeah, good point."
"You guys also go to school too?" Pagumon asked while atop Regina's head.
"Only me." Regina replied. "These three already graduated from college. But my school is Oogai 1st Middle School in my world as a 1st year student."
"I see." Pagumon noted. "Guess you have some catching up to do when you get back to your world."
"Yeah… a LOT of catching up to do." Regina sighed.
"Good morning, guys." Said the arriving Gunvolt with Copen beside him.
"Good morning, you two." Gaius greeted back. "Any progress with the search for the missing Attuned, Ix?"
"It's a slow process, but with Mirei's help, we should be able to get something in a week." Copen replied.
"I see." Zeo noted. "So what's the sitch, GV?"
"We've got a little situation at Drain Tunnel." Gunvolt replied. "We've also encountered a woman along the way, so we had to take her back quickly."
"And the crazy part is, she happens to recognize GV and Ix! Meaning she's from our world!" Lola added from Copen's relic pendant.
"Shut up!" Zeo, Akira, Gaius and Regina exclaimed.
"Uhh… what?" Pagumon asked in confusion.
"It's a figure of speech, Pagumon." Joule clarified from Gunvolt's relic pendant.
"Oh."
"Did a Dimensional Quake happen in your world again, GV?" Zeo asked.
"Not quite sure if it happened before or after the Gjallarhorn fragment is extracted." Gunvolt replied. "Anyway, the woman should calm down by now, she's currently at Union Office explaining to ClavisAngemon of her situation. You guys free to help?"
"Of course!" Pagumon answered. "If someone needs help, we'll give 'em a hand!"
Gaius chuckled in response. "We're gonna say 'Yes' anyway, Pagumon."
"Well, there you have it." Regina smiled.
"Hmph, I figured as much." Copen smirked. "Alright, let's head for Union Office."
Observer Room, Union Office
Upon arriving at the Observer Room, they saw ClavisAngemon and the woman with light brown eyes and creamy white, fluffy hair that Gunvolt and Copen mentioned earlier. She's also wearing a long sleeved white blouse, a light peach long skirt and sandals.
"Ah, there you are." ClavisAngemon noticed and greeted the arrivals. "This woman here just finished explaining the details to me."
"Hello there, Miss. Gunvolt and Copen told us about you." Zeo greeted. "What's your name?"
"... It's Rina. You can call me Rina."
"Okay Rina, could you tell us what happened to you from the beginning?" Gaius asked.
"Also, we're aware of other worlds existing so we'll believe in your story." Akira added.
"Alright then." Rina nodded. "Well… it all started back at home in my world, a few months after Eden's downfall. I, my husband Rebellio, and our younger brother and sister, were living our usual lives, until that strange quake happened one day. Luckily all of us were together during that time, until our vision turned white. And when I woke up, I was suddenly in a sewer. I was fortunate that I found my husband nearby, however my younger siblings are nowhere to be seen. He and I then noticed those Digital Monsters ClavisAngemon explained earlier, meaning that quake sent us to another world, which happens to be here in the Digital World."
"So that explains how you and your family got here. A Dimensional Quake happened in your area." Zeo noted, earning a nod from Rina.
"Wait, where's your husband?" Akira asked.
"He's still in the sewers looking for our siblings." Rina answered. "He searched in one area while I searched the other. But then I was suddenly attacked by a large sea monster holding a trident."
"That was a Dragomon, a Perfect Level Digimon." ClavisAngemon clarified.
"Good thing Ix and I are there in time to save her." Gunvolt said.
"CannonBeemon and Gira the AtlurKabuterimon, made short work of that hostile Digimon." Copen added.
"I'm not sure how my husband is doing despite how strong he is as an adept, but I'm still worried. Could you go into the sewers and help him along with finding my missing siblings?" Rina asked.
"No problem, ma'am. We'll give him a hand and find your missing siblings." Zeo accepted with a nod.
"Wait, hold up." Akira interrupted. "Your husband is an adept?"
"Yes." Rina nodded. "He was an employee of Sumeragi and was given a Glaive, but after Nova's downfall, he decided to quit and use his Septima to support us while living a peaceful life. We were lucky that Eden wasn't able to spot us, but Rebellio will fight to protect us if we're discovered."
"A former employee of Sumeragi, using his Septima to protect his family…" Copen mused before smiling. "It's good to know that Gunvolt's not the only adept who's fighting to protect the innocent."
"What is his Septima, Rina?" Gunvolt asked.
"It's called Energy Wool, giving him the ability to craft anything he desires out of a powerful fiber material. He's also good at sewing, making new clothes for our family if they're torn apart." Reina explained.
"The ability to create anything using energy fiber, huh? Sounds like a very versatile Septima that can be a force to be reckoned with if used properly." Lola remarked.
"Even so, please protect my husband and my family." Rina said.
"Don't worry, we'll bring them back safely." Regina assured. "Just stay here and wait for us, okay?"
"Mm." Rina nodded and smiled. "Thank you."
"Alright, there's no time to waste! Time to do a little rescue at Drain Tunnel!" Pagumon declared as the team left the room.
Drain Tunnel, Digital World
"Never thought we'd be back in this area again." Zeo remarked after he and his team arrived via Warp Gate.
"And still dirty as ever." Akira added, looking at the sewer water.
"So how are we gonna do this?" Gunvolt asked.
"Since there's six of us, we'll split into a team of three and search the areas for Rebellio and his young siblings." Copen answered as the team called out their Digimon partners. "Gaius, Regina, you're with me."
"Right." Gaius and Regina nodded.
"We'll search one area while you guys search another. Best of luck, guys." Zeo said as he, Gunvolt, Akira and their Digimon partners head for one area of the sewers while everyone else searched the other area.
As Zeo's team ventured to the west area of Drain Tunnel, they eventually discovered a young short haired boy and long haired girl, both having the same hair color as Rina, sleeping at a corner of a wall. Not only that, they also saw three floating hostile Digimon patrolling the area, causing the team to hide to avoid detection.
"Well, good news is that we've found Rina's kids due to their hair color." Akira said.
"Bad news is that they're being guarded by the Kurisarimons." Caliburn added.
Kurisarimon
Type: Virus
Level: Adult
Kurisarimon is a living purple chrysalis with spikes around its body, a red horn, a stinger, and three pairs of sharp cable-like tentacles on its back.
"These things have really strong defenses. Trying to delete them in one shot will be tricky." Lilac stated. "Sadly, none of my skills have that."
"Then it's a good thing my partner can dish out armor piercing lasers." Gunvolt said. "Right, buddy?"
"You said it, GV." CannonBeemon nodded.
CannonBeemon
Type: Virus
Level: Perfect
CannonBeemon is a large mechanical bee with two antenna-like appendages protruding from his head, two compound eyes on his face, four legs attached to the underside of its thorax, four insectoid wings protruding from his back, and a large cannon hanging beneath his body similar to a bee's stinger. His body is covered in yellow metal with black stripes, and carries a series of hexagonal containers on its back arranged in a honeycomb pattern.
"My blades are also strong enough to pierce through that shell." Caliburn said.
"Alright, here's what we're gonna do." Zeo said. "GV will chain up and shock those Digimons with his Septima, then Caliburn, CannonBeemon and I will take down one Kurisarimon each. After that, sis will take those kids back to Digi-Central using a Gate Disk."
"Alright./Worth a shot." Gunvolt and Akira nodded.
"Now excuse me while I go change at somewhere quiet. Caliburn, watch my back." Zeo said as he and Caliburn left while the former pulled out his Zikan Driver and two Ridewatches, Zi-O and Kaixa.
Moments later, Caliburn and Zi-O in his KaixaArmor with his Kaixa Pointer attached to the side of his right leg, regrouped with the others. "Any changes while Caliburn and I were gone?" Zi-O asked.
"Nope." Akira shook her head. "Still the same patrol route for those Digimons and the kids are still asleep."
"Ready to set the plan in motion?" Joule asked.
"Mhm. We're Ret-2-Go." Zi-O replied with a thumbs up. "GV, showtime."
"Let's make some sparks fly." Gunvolt smirked, placing his electro hand on the ground, causing chains to appear below the three Kurisarimons, ensnaring and shocking them. "Your turn, guys!"
"Go!" Zi-O shouted as he leaped into the air while initiating his finisher sequence, with Caliburn following suit and CannonBeemon charging up his laser cannon.
=FINISH TIME! KAIXA!=
=EXCEED TIME BREAK!=
After Zi-O performed a frontflip, he lunged his feet forward as the Pointer fired a laser that turned into a gold energy cone when it came on contact to Kurisarimon. Then the Rider divekicked on the cone, making it spin like a drill as it pierced through the Digimon. And after the Rider appeared behind Kurisarimon, Kaixa's symbol appeared on the Digimon before exploding.
"Glass Rush!" Caliburn leaped towards another Kurisarimon, moved his sword arms forward and spun like a drill. The attack pierced through Kurisarimon's armor, leaving a hole on the chest before exploding.
"Nitro Stinger!" CannonBeemon fired his charged cannon as the laser pierced through the last Kurisarimon through its tough armor before exploding.
Once the area was clear, Zi-O dismissed his armor as the others regrouped. "Nicely done, guys!" Akira praised.
"I'm surprised that the sneak attack didn't wake up the kids." Joule remarked.
"That's probably for the best. We don't want to scare them when they wake up." Lilac stated.
"Alright, Lilac and I will handle the rest from here." Akira said as she and her partner approached the sleeping kids, with the former pulling out a Gate Disk. "You guys can go after Ix to help look for Rebellio."
"Got it, sis." Zeo nodded.
"See you back at Digi-Central." Gunvolt said as he and the others left the area.
"Don't worry kids, I'll bring you back safely. Your mom is waiting for you." Akira smiled at the sleeping kids as she used the Gate Disk to warp themselves back to Digi-Central.
Meanwhile with Copen's team, they searched the other area of the sewers while dealing with more hostile Digimons along the way. Eventually, their search led them to the area where they fought against PlatinumSukamon.
Before they could go any further, Lola began to sense something. "Hey guys, I'm sensing an adept nearby. I think it might be Rebellio."
"Looks like we're in the right place." Regina said.
"Let's have a look around until we find him." Copen said.
"Actually, I think I know where he is." Gaius said.
"Wait, you do?" Gira the AtlurKabuterimon responded.
AtlurKabuterimon
Type: Vaccine
Level: Perfect
AtlurKabuterimon is a bipedal insect resembling a Japanese rhinoceros beetle with four arms. His head is eyeless and has a skull helmet with a large horn that forks at the tip. Its shell consists of fused elytra with a green crystal ball at the base. It is red in coloration with blue hands and feet. His torso and pelvis are skeletal in appearance, and he has a blue stinger on the pelvis.
"Yeah, we've been through this place before, including where we fought PlatinumSukamon." Gaius recalled. "So if my hunch is correct, that same location should be where we'll find our adept."
"I think you might be right." Huckbein agreed.
"Alright then Gaius, lead the way." Copen said.
"Mm." Gaius nodded as he led the team to where they battled PlatinumSukamon before.
After climbing up a ladder and crossing a wooden bridge, they reached their destination where they saw a figure up ahead. "Hey you're right, Gaius! This must be the guy we're looking for!" Pagumon said.
"Yup, should be him." Gaius confirmed.
"Excuse me! Are you the adept named Rebellio?" Copen called out, earning the man's attention as he turned around.
"...You know my name?" The man named Rebellio answered. He appears to have light brown eyes and creamy white, fluffy hair that goes past his shoulders. He wears long black pants and shoes, and a creamy white shirt. "Wait…" He then looked at Copen. "I know you. You're the Adept Slayer, aren't you?"
"So you know who I am." Copen replied. "However, that title is long gone. I'm a Luminous Avenger now."
"I see… but it makes no difference." Rebellio replied back, taking out a Septima Glave. "If you're here to slay me, then you'd best think again."
"Hey, hold up!" Lola exclaimed. "At least let us talk-"
Unfortunately, Rebellio activated his Glave, causing him to glow as his body changed. And once the glow faded, he donned his Armed Phenomenon form. He now has black and white armor all over his body, with emphasis on his collar, forearms and hips, from which two large pieces of armor sprout. His eyes turned black and his irises became a pure, glowing white, matching his hair, which also grows much larger and floats, resembling a sheep, and softly flashes several different colours. He also has two large black ram-like horns on his head, and a halo made of red energy wool floating above him.
"Please, for both of our sakes, stay away from me and my family." Rebellio spoke.
"I see. So that's your answer." Copen stepped forward, using his Zikan Phone to don his battlesuit and pulled out his Divider gun with his bits floating around him.
"Hey wait a sec, you're not gonna fight him, are you?!" Pagumon asked.
"Don't worry, I'm not going to kill him. Though I think a quick beating is needed to calm him down." Copen replied. "You guys stay and watch, I'll handle things here."
"As you wish, Ix." Gaius replied as he and the others nodded, taking a few steps back.
"Alright, Rebellio." Copen took a combat stance. "Let's see what you can do."
(Play BGM: Septima Burst - Luminous Avenger iX OST)
Rebellio made his first move by creating a spiked energy fiber flail using his Septima and flung it towards Copen, making him dodge to the left. Copen used his jet boosters to rush towards Rebellio, only for him to turn into fiber which made him vanish to evade Copen.
"Hm, smart move." Copen remarked as he looked around.
"Ix, something's coming from above!" Lola shouted, making Copen look up and saw Rebellio on a large guillotine made of energy fiber quickly coming down on Copen's position.
"Prevasion, don't fail me now!" Copen thought as he dashed towards the guillotine.
"Wait, what is he doing?!" Pagumon questioned in shock. "He's going to get sliced up!'
"Actually, he'll be fine." Gaius assured. "Just watch."
Once Copen got close to the falling guillotine, he phased through instead of taking the hit before retaliating with a Bullit Dash onto Rebellio to tag him, then jumped away while firing his Divider at the adept with support from his bits firing homing lasers.
After Rebellio took much damage, he dispersed his guillotine and created a 5-barrel gatling gun before firing energy bullets at Copen, making him dash away to avoid getting hit.
"A freaking gatling gun?!" Regina gawked. "How versatile is that Septima of his?!"
"Very. As long as he uses his imagination." Gaius replied.
"Are you really sure we're not allowed to help him?" Huckbein asked.
"This is Copen's fight. We must not interfere." Gladius stated.
"I see." Gira noted as they watched the battle. "But still…"
Eventually, Rebellio stopped firing and dispersed his gatling gun before vanishing himself. "Hm… gone again." Copen said as he landed on solid ground while looking around.
"He's up to something, Ix. Stay alert." Lola warned.
Soon after, Rebellio appeared behind him with a scythe he created and began to reap Copen's head off, only for the latter to duck and turn around, pointing his Divider on the adept's chest and fired rapidly, pushing him back and taking damage.
"Tch…!" Rebellio muttered as he resumed the attack, making Copen respond by pulling out his X-Baton and clashed with him, dodging and parrying in the process. The clashes went on for a few seconds until a strike from both fighters pushed themselves back on opposite sides as they catch their breath.
"Enough of this, Rebellio. This battle will lead us nowhere." Copen said.
"No." Rebellio shook his head. "I have to keep fighting."
"Why are you taking so long to dispose of one human?"
(BGM End)
"Hm?" Copen and the others looked around for the source of the voice until the figure appeared in the air behind Rebellio using a shadow.
"Devimon?!" Huckbein gasped, recognizing the figure.
Devimon
Type: Virus
Level: Adult
Devimon is a humanoid devil garbed completely in black clothing, fingers elongated into claws, devil's horns, tattered wings, and skulls on its shoulder and knee. He has the deep red Mark of Evil on its chest and on its left boot, belts around its lower torso, left leg, right upper arm and left forearm, gauze bandages around its right forearm and left hand, and a skin-tight balaclava that only reveals its mouth and red eyes.
"Are we looking at a devil right now?!" Lola exclaimed.
"Yes. Yes we are." Copen frowned. "And I'm starting to see why Rebellio has to fight us."
"Is that Rebellio's Digimon partner?" Regina asked.
"More like this Digimon is manipulating him against his will." Gaius answered with a frown.
"Why did you make a deal with a devil, Rebellio?" Copen asked.
"..." Rebellio looked down in guilt.
"Allow me to humor you for that." Devimon spoke until he noticed Pagumon. "Hm?"
"What? Why are you looking at me for?" Pagumon asked.
"Your aura. It feels… familiar…" Devimon replied.
"Huh?" Pagumon blinked. "What are you talking about? I don't remember meeting you."
"I see. I should not be surprised since you were once killed, causing your memories to be wiped clean."
"I was what?!" Pagumon exclaimed. "What's going on?!"
"I see no point answering your questions since you chose to side with those pathetic Tamers after your rebirth."
"Hey! Regina did a damn good job raising me!"
"Hmph. And I thought you could become stronger without their help. How disappointing."
"Okay, that's it!" Pagumon fumed in anger. "Kick his ass, guys!"
"I'd be careful with that order if I were you." Devimon smirked as he snapped his fingers, causing three Kurisarimons to emerge from the water near Regina and the others, and pointed their sharp tentacles at them. "Move an inch, and your lives are forfeit."
"Tch… I hate it when stuff like this happens." Gaius thought.
"That son of a… he thought this through!" Gladius thought.
"Rebellio, don't do this." Copen said.
"I'm sorry… but I have to do this to protect my family. One of us will be walking away alive." Rebellio replied, reluctantly taking a combat stance.
"Damn it…! And I promised Rina to bring her husband back alive!" Copen thought.
"Go on. Entertain me." Devimon sneered with his arms crossed.
"(Oooh! If Zeo and the others show up, they'll definitely knock off that devil's sneering!)" Lola thought.
Fortunately, Lola's prayers were answered as numerous chains appeared from the water, ensnaring and shocking the Kurisarimons and their tentacles.
"What?!" Devimon exclaimed in shock.
"Trident Saber!/Scissor Arms Omega!" Huckbein and Gira quickly slashed the ensnared Digimons to nothingness, averting the danger.
"What the heck took you guys so long?!" Pagumon grinned at the arriving Zeo, Gunvolt and their Digimon partners.
"Sorry we're late!" Zeo apologized. "We managed to find Rebellio's kids that's being guarded by the Kurisarimons."
"We quickly destroyed them before Akira took the kids back to Rina in Digi-Central." Gunvolt added.
"What did you say?!" Rebellio gasped with wide eyes.
Copen smirked upon hearing the good news. "You don't have to worry about your family being in danger anymore, Rebellio. They're in good hands thanks to Tamer Union."
"Also, your wife told us to find you and your kids before we came to the sewers." Lola added.
"My wife…? She asked… for help…?" Rebellio whispered in surprise, moving down his scythe.
"Curse you, meddling Tamers!" Devimon scowled in anger. "This was not supposed to happen!"
"Oh cry me a river, asshole." Caliburn countered. "How devious of you to send your Kurisarimons to hold those kids for random. Unfortunately for your minions, they can't handle against Perfect Levels, especially the ones that can pierce through tough armor."
"And now that the wife and kids are safe, we don't have to worry about holding back!" CannonBeemon added.
"Damn you all!" Devimon shouted, calling forth more Kurisarimons from the water as they stood in front of the devil. "Who do you think you are anyway?!"
Copen changed his X-Baton to Blaster Mode and pointed it and his Divider at Devimon. "Just a passing-through Rebellion. Remember that in hell, Devimon!"
"Kill them all!" Devimon ordered his minions to go after the Rebellion while he went after Copen himself.
"You guys go after the minions, Gira and I will handle Devimon." Copen said to the group.
"No problem, Ix. The devil's all yours." Zeo nodded as they turned their sights onto the Kurisarimons while Copen and Gira went after Devimon.
"Copen, hop on my back!" Gira said, earning a nod from him as he jumped onto his partner's back and took flight.
"Death Hand!" Devimon fired dark beams at the approaching Gira, forcing him to dodge.
"Horn Buster"
"Horn Buster!" Copen ordered as Gira fired a blast of lightning from his horn. Devimon quickly shot it down with another dark beam before getting hit on the chest by a charging Gira with his electro horn forward. Devimon was about to free himself by using his glowing dark nails on his hands, until Copen noticed. "Don't even try!" Copen retaliated by firing two of his Arrogant Fang Ex-Weapon right onto the devil's eyes.
"Gh! My eyes!" Devimon exclaimed as he rubbed his eyes, until Gira slammed him towards the wall before flying back.
"Mega Blaster"
"Mega Blaster!" Copen order as Gira fired at Devimon with the same attack as Kabuterimon's, but with more power. "I'm surprised you still have that skill even though you digivolved, Gira."
"I'm one of those rare cases, actually." Gira replied.
"Huh, fancy that." Lola remarked.
"Death Claw!" Devimon roared as he slashed Gira with his extended dark glowing hands, pushing him several metres back. "I'm not through with you yet!"
"Then go ahead. Make my day!" Gira taunted, which angered the devil as he was about to retaliate.
"Coming through!" Grandis quickly intercepted by ramming the devil from the side.
"Sorry, but my partner really wanted to hit you." Regina smirked while standing on Grandis' back.
"Also, someone has a bone to pick with you." Pagumon added and turned around to see Rebellio on Grandis' back, approaching the devil with an intimidating glare.
"You…!" Devimon scowled as he tried to break free from Grandis' mandibles.
"I don't think so." Rebellio used his Septima to ensnare the devil's arms and wings to prevent him from moving. "This one is for my kids."
Grandis slammed the ensnared Devimon onto a wall before flying slightly back, allowing Rebellio to follow up by using his energy fiber to latch the devil onto the wall in the shape of a spiderweb. "This one is for my wife." Rebellio said as he used his Septima to turn himself into a large energy fiber spear. "And this one's for you. Crimson Death Thread!" And then he plunged himself straight through Devimon's chest, making him scream in pain as he was deleted while Rebellio reappeared next to Regina. "And don't ever come back."
"Feel better?" Pagumon asked.
"After knowing that my family is safe and sound? Yes, much better." Rebellio smiled.
"Glad to hear it." Copen noted as he and Gira approached him.
"Umm…" Rebellio rubbed the back of his neck.
"The name's Copen. But you can also call me Ix if you want. Another thing, I'll accept your forgiveness considering the situation you're in. Fortunately I have friends who are willing to help. And like I said, I'm no longer the Adept Slayer, and it'll leave a bad taste in my mouth if I kill an adept that's protecting their family."
"Oh." Rebellio responded in surprise. "You really did change. Though I wasn't expecting you to work alongside the Azure Striker from what I saw earlier."
"Let's just say my new friends showed me the light during the Eden incident. The true light." Copen replied. "It's a long story."
"I see." Rebellio noted. "Then I'm looking forward to hearing that story. But first, I have to go back to my family."
"Let's rejoin with the others first before we head back." Regina said, earning a nod from them before heading back.
By the time they rejoined, all of the Kurisarimons had been eliminated. "So Ix, how does it feel to slay a Digimon devil?' Gaius asked.
"Very satisfying." Copen smirked.
"Though technically, Rebellio's the one who finished him." Lola pointed out.
"Consider it payback on that devil bastard for manipulating me and holding my family for ransom." Rebellio stated before looking at Gunvolt. "So you must be the legendary Azure Striker. You must be quite the troublemaker for Sumeragi."
"I have my reasons. Call me Gunvolt, or GV for short. It's nice to meet a friendly adept for once. Besides Joule, of course."
"You know I can hear you, right?" Joule responded.
"Wait, that voice…" Rebellio said. "Is that Lumen the Cyber Idol I'm hearing?!"
Joule then appeared beside Gunvolt. "You know my stage name?"
"It really is you! I thought you died!"
"Well…" Joule poked her index fingers together. "Let's just say my death is greatly exaggerated. I'm just taking a hiatus on my idol career."
"Oh. Though I wonder why you're hiding inside GV's pendant." Rebellio questioned while pointing at said pendant.
"It's a long story." Joule replied. "But do me a favor and keep this as a secret."
"I can do that." Rebellio nodded. "But you have to sign some autographs for my kids. They loved your songs."
"Aww… how sweet!" Joule smiled. "Sure, no problem. But uh… let's get out of this sewer first."
"One trip back, coming up." Gunvolt complied, using a Gate Disk to Warp everyone back to Digi-Central.
Digi-Central, Digital World
Upon arriving back at Digi-Central, they met up with Akira and Rebellio's family. Rina was greatly relieved that her husband and kids were safe from harm. Joule also fulfilled Rebellio's request by giving signed autographs to the kids.
"So what's going to happen to you guys now?" Gunvolt asked Rebellio's family. "We have a way to send you back to my world."
"As much as we want to go back, I think it's better if we stay in this world, if that's okay with you." Rina replied.
"As long as my family is safe, it'll put my mind at ease. So staying with the Rebellion sounds like a better option." Rebellio (without his transformation) added before smirking. "Besides, your team had Rebellion on the name, so how can I say 'No' to that?"
Gaius chuckled in response. "True. Though we need to check your old home first to retrieve your belongings."
"I don't think that's possible since that quake destroyed our home, so we'll have to start from scratch." Rina replied.
"In that case, you'll have to go back to the real world and meet up with Commander Genjuro. He'll help you guys with the rest." Copen said. "I'd escort you there myself, but I have to go back and help Mirei."
"Guess Joule and I will have to do it instead." Gunvolt deduced. "Don't worry, we'll handle things here."
"I know you two will." Copen nodded and smiled before heading for the Farm Gate.
"Catch you guys later!" Lola said as Copen used the Farm Gate to warp to Mirei's Digi-Lab.
"Alright, time for us to go too." Joule said before returning back to Gunvolt's pendant.
"Oh, one last thing." Rebellio spoke to the XDR leaders. "If you ever need my help, feel free to let me know so I can return the favor. My Energy Wool Septima's at your disposal."
"You've got a deal, Rebellio." Zeo replied with a thumbs up and a smile. "May you and your family enjoy your new home."
"We will." Rina bowed and smiled. "See you again soon!" Afterwards, Gunvolt escorted Rebellio's family back to the real world via Warp Gate.
"You know… seeing Rebellio's family made me miss my own family." Regina said. "But I know we'll find a way back to my world, so I can't lose hope yet."
"Exactly." Akira agreed. "It's too soon to give up."
"Hm?" Gaius then noticed Pagumon who's sitting atop Regina's head is having a neutral expression. "Something on your mind, Pagumon?"
"Those words Devimon said to me." Pagumon answered. "Who was I before I was reborn as a Pagumon? And what was I originally like?"
"Oh, that." Zeo noted. "Well maybe…"
"Well what do we have here? A Pagumon."
Their conversation was interrupted by the appearance of a male Tamer with short blonde hair and black clothing and a female Tamer with purple hair and blue clothing.
"Kain and Tomomi." Akira thought while looking at the two Tamers. "I really hate reliving that moment in the game, but it's the only way for Pagumon to grow."
"Can I help you?" Regina asked the two Tamers.
"You may not know this, but this Pagumon originally belonged to me." Tomomi replied, staring at the Digimon.
"Wait… I was your Digimon partner?" Pagumon asked the purple-haired, answering with a nod.
"That is correct. I was also there during that time." Kain said. "I'm surprised you're still alive."
"Hold on…" Pagumon narrowed his eyes at the two Tamers before his eyes widened in shock. "Wait, now I remember! You're the two jerks that forced me to fight and treated me like utter garbage!"
"They did what?!" Regina exclaimed.
"Strength is everything when it comes to Digimon, while the weak ones are useless." Kain stated.
"No wonder you didn't obey me and ran away from home." Tomomi added. "You're the weakest Digimon ever, and I was glad to get rid of you!"
Unfortunately for Tomomi, it pissed off Regina so much…
*SLAP*
…that she slapped her in the face. "You selfish jerk!" Regina retorted.
"Gh?!" Tomomi grunted in shock and in pain after the slap.
"Wow, Regina. Way to take action." Akira thought.
"You did not just do that." Kain frowned.
"You darn right I did!" Regina retorted. "Strength is everything? Ha! Don't make me laugh! Pagumon's not the problem, it's you two! You really think taking shortcuts by using only strong Digimon is the only way to become a strong Tamer? Let alone become the Tamer King? In your stupid selfish dreams! The reason my friends and I made it this far is because of how much we care and understand our Digimon partners! Not as tools, but as equals! And honestly, Pagumon's better off with me because of how I treated him with care and respect instead of selfish Tamers like you two!"
"...Daaamn." Gaius thought.
"Holy crap. Way to improve better than your previous self, Regina. Mana would be proud." Zeo also thought.
"Regina… You…" Pagumon whispered in awe at how she's protecting him, while the two abusive Tamers were speechless and in shock.
Regina huffed and walked to the Farm Gate with Pagumon in tow while speaking to the XDR leaders. "C'mon, you guys. There's no point convincing these two stubborn Tamers to change. Let them figure out this problem themselves."
Once Regina warped away to the Digi-Farm, Gaius and Akira quickly followed suit. Before Zeo could follow them, he gave one more stern look at Kain and Tomomi. "Allow me to add one more thing on my friend's behalf. If you're really going to accomplish this with only strength and taking shortcuts, be careful what you wish for, or it'll end up losing a life that's beyond your control. Think about it." Afterwards, he went after his friends to the Digi-Farm.
Kain and Tomomi were silent for a few moments after hearing the warning. "Beyond my control, huh…" Kain whispered with a scowl. "I'll show you. I'll prove that powerful strength can be controlled!"
"Kain…?" Tomomi asked while still reeling from that slap by Regina.
"Get your Digimon ready, Tomomi. We're heading to Chrome Mine." Kain answered.
"Chrome Mine? What for?"
"...We're going to search for a Data Core Crystal."
Digi-Farm, Digi-Central
Meanwhile at the Digi-Farm, Zeo, Akira, Gaius and Regina are about to have a conversation with Pagumon.
"Regina… thanks for sticking up for me earlier." Pagumon said. "I don't know what to say."
"You don't have to say anything, Pagumon." Regina replied. "Like I said, I'm your Tamer now, and I made a promise to take good care of you. Don't think about the past too much and just keep moving forward. And besides, my friends and I still need to help you become as strong as a Perfect Level like Grandis. And whatever problems you're facing, don't be afraid to talk to me or my friends."
"I know you guys will, and thank you." Pagumon smiled. "Though speaking of the past… I've been thinking about Devimon's words, along with what happened with Kain and Tomomi, my original Tamers. It helped me remember a bit about my previous self."
"Were you able to remember who you once was?" Akira asked.
"A little bit, but I'm getting close." Pagumon replied. "Although… I've been having these dreams while I was sleeping last night. Something about a town. It has tall cliffs, and lots of fossils surrounding the area."
"I see. Anything else you're able to remember?" Gaius asked.
"I might find some clues at a place called Mangrove Woods. I remember going to that place in my previous life, so maybe the Digimon living there might tell me what the place in my dream is."
"Mangrove Woods…" Zeo mused. "Hey, Calumon?!"
"Coming!" Said Digimon approached the group after hearing the call.
"Do you happen to have the address for Mangrove Woods?" Zeo requested. "We're helping Pagumon regain his lost memories."
"Oh, I have it! One moment." Calumon replied, materializing a holo-screen and searched the address list. Once the address was found, he tapped a few buttons, causing the Digivices to ring afterwards. "All done, you're free to travel to Mangrove Woods."
"Thank you as always, Calumon." Gaius smiled.
"Anytime!" Calumon smiled back. "Oh, and Pagumon? Good luck finding your lost memories!"
"Thanks!" Pagumon smiled before Calumon left. "Alright, you guys ready to go?"
"Do you need to ask?" Regina smirked as Pagumon hopped on his Tamer's head. "Next stop: Mangrove Woods!"
Mangrove Woods, Digital World
(Play BGM: Mangrove Woods - Digimon World DS)
Upon arriving at the area known as Mangrove Woods, they find themselves in another swamp, but the place is much cleaner with clear blue water, even more trees and sandy walkways with no whirlpools in sight.
Lilac appeared beside Akira with the other Digimon partners following suit. Lilac took a deep breath to smell the scenery. "Ah… now this is much better. Way more than Packet Swamp and Drain Tunnel." She remarked.
"So what Digimon are we looking for in this place, Pagumon?" Grandis asked.
"Hmm…" Pagumon hummed in thought. "I think it was some Penguinmons. We should be able to find them at the end of this area."
"Sounds like a good place to start." Caliburn noted.
"As long as we don't get lost, that is." Zeo stated.
"How about you let me lead the way?" Gaius requested. "I should know where to go."
"Considering how smart you are, go for it." Akira approved.
"Then lead the way, partner." Huckbein said before Gaius led the team into the woods.
As the team traversed through the woods, they scanned/fought against Kamemon, Birdramon, Parrotmon, Kotatorimon, and MegaSeadramon. A few minutes later, they arrived at the end of the area in a large open space with grape trees, a large rock and small pond with several pebbles.
"This must be the place." Pagumon said as he looked around.
"Are you sure the Penguinmons you encountered in the past are here?" Regina asked.
"I'm really sure of it." Pagumon nodded. "But where-"
Suddenly, the team is surrounded by a group of Penguinmons and a pair of Kiwimons, led by a Deramon.
"...I think we've found them." Zeo deduced.
Penguinmon
Type: Vaccine
Level: Child
Penguinmon resembled its namesake with a blue body and a white belly with blue downward arrow markings, yellow feet and beak with the latter having a blue patch at the front, and red eyes and claws on the flippers and feet.
Kiwimon
Type: Data
Level: Adult
Kiwimon is a wingless bird with a brown furry body, leaves around the neck, and wearing a large mask that covers the face with a long beak.
Deramon
Type: Data
Level: Perfect
Deramon is a bird with a blue body and white belly, red eyes, wearing red and white shoes, a red bow, a crown, and having a green thicket bush on his back with pink flowers.
"You have some nerve intruding on our territory." A Kiwimon frowned.
"Have you no decency?!" A Penguinmon added.
"Whoa! Easy there, fellas! We're not here for a fight." Akira raised her hands in defense.
"State your business." Deramon demanded.
"Pagumon?" Regina looked at her partner, responding with a nod.
"Um… excuse me. But can you birds help me with something?" Pagumon asked the bird Digimons. "I'm looking for a place that's the same as my dream. You know where that place is?"
"Hmm…" Deramon hummed in thought while staring at Pagumon… before the former's eyes widened in shock. "Wait a second. You remind me of a certain Digimon that came here before… and it pisses me off!"
"Wait, what?!" Pagumon exclaimed.
"Alright boys, remember the routine! Get that Digimon!" Deramon ordered.
"Yes, sir!" The Penguinmons and Kiwimons compiled as they took combat stances at the team.
"Hey, hold on a sec!" Regina shouted.
"I think your previous self must've done something that triggered them." Zeo said to Pagumon as the Digimon partners prepared themselves.
"Geez… how bad was I before?" Pagumon pondered before realization sets in. "Hey, I think they might also know what my previous form was!"
"Good to know we're able to find a clue on your past." Akira said.
"Unfortunately, they don't feel like talking at the moment." Gaius stated.
"I really hate to fight these birds, even though it's for self-defense." Caliburn said.
"Then we'll have to be careful not to delete them by accident." Huckbein stated.
"Or I can just do this." Lilac took action by performing a graceful dance above the bird Digimons. "Pollen Spray!" She then unleashed lovely-smelling pollen onto the Child and Adult bird Digimons, that bewitched them on contact before falling asleep.
"Nice move, Lilac." Akira praised. "Now we won't have to worry about harming the weaker Digimons."
"Though I think she missed one!" Pagumon pointed out while staring at a livid Deramon.
"You stupid…!" Deramon fumed while looking at his sleeping minions. "Wake up already! This is no time for a nap!" However, Deramon's call fell on deaf ears as the bird Digimons never woke up, making him fume further. "Do I have to do everything myself?! Royal Nuts!" He then launched numerous fast moving hard nuts from his thicket onto Lilac.
"Hey, watch where you're shooting that! You could poke someone's eyes out!" Lilac scolded while evading the attack.
"Lila Shower"
"Lila Shower!" Akira ordered as Lilac unleashed countless slender beams from her fingers, overpowering Deramon's attack until one of the beams landed on his face, damaging and stunning him.
"Beauty Slap"
"Beauty Slap!" Akira ordered as Lilac quickly flew towards the stunned Deramon with her hand glowing, and rapidly slapped the bird's face.
"Will! You! Stop! Fighting! For! More! Than! Thirty! Seconds!" Lilac scolded, emphasizing each word with a slap… which unfortunately also caused the others, except Akira and the sleeping Digimons, to wince after each connecting slap.
"...I think Lilac overdone it." Huckbein remarked.
"And I'm suddenly reminded of the time this flower fairy slapped me silly during a previous training session." Caliburn recalled. "And I'm still feeling those damn bruises…"
"Ooh…" Pagumon cringed. "That bad, huh?"
"Okay, remind me to never to piss off any Lilamon at all." Grandis said. "And that's coming from an Okuwamon like me."
"Yeah… I'd better put a stop to that right now." Akira admitted and sweatdropped. "O-Okay, Lilac! I think that's enough slapping for today!"
After hearing her Tamer's voice, she immediately ceased slapping and moved away as Deramon stopped for a moment to recover. "Sorry about that. I think I may have overdone it." She apologized, rubbing the back of her head.
Deramon shook his head before answering. "...Actually, you did the exact opposite. You've opened my eyes! Sure my face is still in pain from the slapping, but I'm ready to listen to your orders!" He then bowed before the fairy. "From now on, this territory belongs to you, Lilamon! Your wish is my command!"
"Uhh…" Lilac was speechless as she turned to Akira, answering with a shrug. Lilac shrugged back before facing Deramon. "Alright, if that's what you want. Also, call me Lilac. First things first, wake up your fellow bird Digimons."
"Consider it done." Deramon nodded before facing the sleeping bird Digimons. "Gorgeous Beak!" And then he proceeded to peck at the sleepers, making them wake up in pain. "Wake up, sleepyheads! There's been a change of plans!" He gestured his wing to Lilac. "This beautiful fairy has opened my eyes to the truth! So from this moment on, we shall all follow Lady Lilac, the new ruler of this territory! Bow to our new ruler!" He then bowed to the fairy. The other birds were confused at the sudden change of events, before shrugging and followed Deramon's lead.
The rest of the team were dumbfounded at the scene, not expecting something like this to happen. "...I think it's safe to say that the conflict is resolved." Zeo deduced.
"Yeah, let's go with that." Gaius replied as he and his teammates nodded in agreement.
"Alright, listen up!" Akira spoke to the bird Digimons. "I'm Akira Naotora, Lilac's Tamer! Any orders that come from her applies to me as well! So you'd better treat us with respect! Is that clear?!"
"Yes, ma'am!" The bird Digimons saluted.
"And another rule to add!" Lilac gestured to her teammates. "These Tamers and their partners are our friends, so you'd better not attack them without me and my Tamer's permission! Understood?!"
"Yes, ma'am!" The bird Digimons nodded.
"Deramon!" Akira called out.
"Yes, ma'am?"
"My friend Pagumon wants to ask you something, so answer them truthfully without any hostility. But first, may I ask why looking at him made you feel irritated?"
"Oh, that… Well you see, looking at him made me remember the time a very strong Digimon came to this territory and bullied me for no reason, and I was a Floramon back then."
"What did the strong Digimon look like?"
"...It was a BlackAgumon."
"?!" The team's eyes widened in shock upon hearing a familiar name.
"A BlackAgumon? As in the same one Caliburn and I fought at Training Peak?!" Huckbein gasped.
"Considering it's the only BlackAgumon we've encountered so far, then it has to be him." Caliburn replied.
"So that's who I once was… A BlackAgumon…" Pagumon whispered before giving himself a moment to think for a minute with his eyes closed.
"So I was right all along. The Pagumon that's been with us is that BlackAgumon who then digivolved into DarkTyrannomon until he perished after the fight with Machinedramon." Zeo thought while glancing at Pagumon.
"Pagumon?" Regina asked.
"Give him a while to remember, Regina." Gaius advised. "He'll speak to us later."
"Okay." Regina nodded as they watched Pagumon thinking, until he opened his eyes.
"I finally remembered what's going on in my previous life." Pagumon said. "First, I was raised by Tomomi with Kain watching on. However, their way of raising me was harsh, abusive and painful. It was so bad that I had to run away from Tomomi's Digi-Farm, but their words still lingered in my mind. In their opinion, only the strong survive, and the weak are deemed useless. So I had no choice but to follow that mindset, fighting any weak Digimon in my path until I became a BlackAgumon."
"So Tomomi and Kain are the reason why you became a BlackAgumon, and then later digivolving into a BlackTyrannomon." Lilac realized.
"And then you perished after that fight with Machinedramon." Huckbein added.
"Another reason why I hate those two selfish Tamers." Regina frowned.
"After my rebirth, I was taken in by Baihumon, yet some of my mindset and memories from my previous self still lingered. And then I met you guys, and the rest is history." Pagumon said.
"So that's the reason why you became a bully, it was because of your previous Tamers." Deramon realized. "And I thought you were just a Digimon bully from the wild."
"Well, now you know." Pagumon said before bowing. "And… I'm really sorry for what I did in the past."
"No." Deramon bowed. "I was the one who should be sorry. I ordered the attack without giving you a chance to explain. And after hearing your tale, I can see you're no longer the bully from before thanks to your new caring Tamers."
"No, I'm not the bully from before anymore. And I'm happy with my new life with my new Tamer Regina, and her good friends." Pagumon smiled. "So, wanna be friends?"
"Sounds good to me." Deramon smiled before turning to the bird Digimons. "Did you hear that, fellas? From this moment on, this Pagumon is now our friend, so do not bully him. Understood?"
"Yes, sir!" The bird Digimons replied.
"Now with that out of the way, can I ask you something, Deramon?" Pagumon asked.
"Anything for a friend." Deramon nodded.
"I had a dream about a town with tall cliffs and fossils surrounding the area. Do you know if a place like that exists?"
"Hmm… a town with tall cliffs and fossils…" Deramon pondered with his wing on his lower beak before answering. "The only area I can think of that fits your description is the Ancient Canyon."
"Ancient Canyon…" Pagumon repeated. "Do you have the address for that? I wanna have a look."
"No problem. Allow me to send the address to your Tamer friends." Deramon replied, materializing a holo-screen and tapped a few buttons. Moments later, the Digivices let out a ring before the holo-screen vanished. "That should do it. Oh, and while you're there, pay a visit to a small shack owned by Jijimon and Babamon, a pair of Ultimate Level Digimons. They might find the answers you seek. But be careful when trying to start a conversation with them, they tend to get… cranky due to their old age."
"We'll keep that in mind, thanks." Akira replied as she and her teammates nodded.
"Huh, guess we don't need Yuji's help for the address after all. Talk about convenient." Zeo thought.
"Thanks for the help, Deramon. And sorry for the misunderstanding." Regina said as she and her teammates bowed.
"That's alright, water under the bridge." Deramon replied. "And again, sorry for attacking you without warning."
"If there's any other help you need, drop us a request to Tamer Union and we'll give you a hand." Zeo said.
"We'll keep that in mind." Deramon nodded before he and the bird Digimons waved. "Best of luck at the Ancient Canyon!"
"Thanks! We'll come again soon!" Akira said as she and her teammates waved while leaving the area.
"So Pagumon, how are you feeling now?" Gaius asked.
"Like a huge weight was lifted off my back, and I'm glad I was able to remember more of my past." Pagumon replied in satisfaction. "And don't worry, I have no grudges against any of you anymore. The past is the past, after all."
"No problem, Pagumon. We're just glad you're alright. We're friends now, and that's never going to change." Akira replied back.
"You know, now that you remembered your past as a DarkAgumon and later a DarkTyrannomon, does that mean you still remember that promise of a fight?" Huckbein asked.
*SLAP*
"Ow! Lilac, why?!"
"Seriously, Huckbein?" Lilac deadpanned with her arms crossed after slapping Huckbein's face. "He just remembered his past and now you want to fight him? He's a Baby Level for Yggdrasil's sake!"
"Honestly…" Grandis sighed.
Pagumon chuckled in response. "Don't worry, I remember that promise with Huckbein and Caliburn. But can that wait until I become a Perfect Level. That's one goal I need to achieve first."
"That's fine, I can wait." Caliburn replied. "And you also need to get used to your Perfect Level form."
"Mhm, exactly." Pagumon nodded. "But first, let's explore the Ancient Canyon and pay Jijimon and Babamon a visit. Hopefully they'll tell me about that dream I'm having."
"Though I worry about the cranky part." Regina said before sighing. "We're gonna fight them, are we?"
"Uh…" The XDR leaders scratched their left cheek nervously.
"...I'll take that as a 'Yes'." Regina deadpanned.
"Don't tell me I need to slap them, too?" Lilac deadpanned.
"Actually, don't. I want to see how I'll fare against a pair of Ultimate Level Digimons." Huckbein insisted.
"I'd better join you, just in case. Babamon and Jijimon may be the weakest Ultimate Levels due to old age, but they're not to be taken lightly." Caliburn stated.
"Gotcha." Huckbein nodded.
"How about we take a quick break at the Digi-Farm before we head for the Ancient Canyon? Sounds good?" Zeo suggested, earning a nod from the team.
"Well then, back to Digi-Central we go!" Akira declared, pulling out a Gate Disk and activated it, causing everyone to warp back to Digi-Central.
Chapter 6: Redemption
End
(Rebellio has joined Xross Drive Rebellion)
Current Roster:
Zeo - Caliburn the Duramon, Geno the MetalGreymon
Akira - Lilac the Lilamon
Gaius - Huckbein the SaviorHuckmon, Garu the WereGarurumon and Veemon/Magnamon
Kanade - Garudamon and Hawkmon
Serena - Helios the HolyAngemon
Miku - Doruguremon
Genjuro - Leomon
Yumi - Kudamon
Kuriyo - Coredramon
Shiori - Bearmon
Kiana - Talia the Tailmon/Nefertimon
Bronya - Guardromon
Yae Miko - Kyubei the Kyubimon
Gunvolt - CannonBeemon
Copen - Gira the AtlurKabuterimon
Houki - Hyuga the Dinohumon
Cecilia - Gladimon
Regina - Grandis the Okuwamon and Pagumon
Author's Note: Yep, a surprise appearance of Rebellio from Luminous Avenger iX game, and this time, we won't have to worry about killing him since his family is safe. He'll be a great asset to the Rebellion, especially for Gunvolt and Copen. And yes, Rebellio replaced Ellie for the Drain Tunnel mission against Devimon, with a few additional touches.
Next, Regina's slap on Tomomi, along with calling out on her and Kain's utter garbage way of raising Digimon was well deserved. Way better than just ignoring them and walking away like in the game. That also caused Pagumon to not run away from the Digi-Farm, and the team went with him to Mangrove Woods.
And speaking of the Mangrove Woods mission, things went differently as the conflict with Deramon and his bird Digimons ended peacefully thanks to Lilac... though the slapping was a bit overboard, but the Beauty Slap has a side-effect which helped calm down Deramon. Painful, but effective. And it was thanks to Deramon that Pagumon was able to remember more of his past, and even gave the address to the Ancient Canyon to seek out Jijimon and Babamon for the answers to Pagumon's dream.
We're nearing the end of the Silver Tamer questline, and after that will be the Gold Tamer quest, meaning we're very close to ending this Book. Until then, stay safe and see you in the next chapter!