Chapter 2: New Suspicions
The first months of Archnemon's stay in Sand Zone were wonderful for her. It was a quid pro quo: she learned about the customs and other habits of her target, the Scorpiomon, while providing the companionship that the pharaoh so desperately needed. The monarch sought nothing more than a breath of fresh air, and the mysterious lady, if she could be considered as such, was undoubtedly capable of providing it.
Archnemon moved in with Pharaohmon. Ultimately, she regarded each of the pyramids as a manifestation of the royal family's ego in Sand Zone. The purple pyramid, with its opulence and mystery, reflected the grandeur and authority of Pharaohmon, delving into the history and power of the ancient ruler of the desert. The blue pyramid, on the other hand, conveyed a sense of wisdom and contemplation, as if imbued with the serenity and experience of past generations. Meanwhile, the yellow pyramid resonated with youthful energy and promise, symbolizing the hope and potential of the pharaoh's heirs.
For Archnemon, these structures were not just residences but witnesses to the arrogance and self-importance of the royal family. Each pyramid seemed to shout to the world the greatness of those who inhabited it, fueling the pride and presumption that characterized the members of the royalty. However, despite her criticism of pomp and excess, Archnemon appreciated the comfort and luxury they offered to their guests, acknowledging the royal family's ability to provide a welcoming and sophisticated environment amid the arid desert.
The presence of the new guest in her father's house had alerted them, shaking the monotony that had characterized the lives of Pharaohmon's sons in Sand Zone until then. Before Archnemon's arrival, Junior and Gravimon had led lives marked by routine and the responsibilities inherent in their status as heirs to the throne. They grew up surrounded by the traditions and protocols of royalty, with the purple pyramid as their home and the desert as their kingdom.
Junior, the eldest son, had been educated to follow in his father's footsteps, absorbed in the duties of governance and the expectations of leadership. From a young age, he had been instilled with the importance of maintaining the greatness and legacy of the royal family, although his jovial personality and carefree attitude often clashed with his father's expectations.
On the other hand, Gravimon, the younger son, had grown up in the shadow of his older brother and the pressure to live up to the expectations of royalty. Despite his maturity for his age, Gravimon found himself at a crossroads between following in his father's footsteps or forging his own path, aware of the responsibilities that fell on his shoulders as second in line to the throne.
The younger brother was ambitious and wished to prove his worth as a future ruler. Unlike his older brother, he considered himself better prepared to take the throne, confident in his abilities and his more pragmatic approach to governing Sand Zone. While Junior was involved in royal duties and court formalities, the prince had managed to find in his position as second in line to the throne the freedom to pursue his own interests and hobbies.
Among these hobbies, his scientific experiments stood out, a facet of his personality that often took a back seat to his family's political responsibilities. In the laboratories of the blue pyramid, Gravimon immersed himself in research and experimentation, exploring new technologies and strategies that could benefit Sand Zone in the future. This dedication to science and innovation was an essential part of his identity, a manifestation of his belief that progress and knowledge were fundamental to the success of his kingdom in a constantly changing world.
Archnemon's arrival disturbed the peace and predictability of their lives, arousing curiosity, mistrust, and, in Junior's case, a particular interest in the enigmatic visitor. However, their father assured them that Archnemon's presence would not alter their position or destiny, reaffirming his authority and the stability of his kingdom in the face of the uncertainty brought by the mysterious stranger. Initially, Pharaohmon's sons tried to change his mind, arguing about the possible consequences of harboring a stranger in their home. However, the pharaoh's decision was irrevocable, and the visitor settled in with them, defying expectations and adding a new element of intrigue to their lives.
Since their mother's death, discussions with their father had become an almost impossible task for Gravimon and Junior. Although Pharaohmon maintained composure in official acts, his temperament changed drastically when he was angry, especially with his children. His wife's absence had left an emotional gap in the royal family of Sand Zone, and the relationship between the pharaoh and his sons became increasingly tense over time. Therefore, they decided to resign themselves and try to live with the new guest.
The spider quickly won the affection of the eldest son, Junior. Despite his initial reservations, Junior found in Archnemon an unexpected but pleasant company. However, the connection between them was more complex than it seemed. Although Junior shared certain traits with his father in terms of appearance, his personality was different. He was jovial and energetic, with an honesty that sometimes bordered on imprudence. He always spoke his mind, even if it could have consequences, although he always kept certain reservations in front of his father. His excessive honesty often led him to commit rude acts at official events, which angered some members of the court frequently.
Archnemon, on the other hand, possessed a similar nature. Both shared a sharp and insightful mindset, but they also had different opinions that led to heated debates during the dinners where they coincided. Despite their differences, they found pleasure in intellectual confrontation, and these debates became a prominent part of their daily routine.
The dynamic of the conversations between Archnemon and Junior extended beyond the two of them. Some of the guests joined in the interesting debates, especially when the topics were political or legal. These subjects often caught the attention of the pharaoh, who listened pleased and interested, sometimes interjecting wise comments that enriched the discussion. However, Gravimon found no interest in such matters and usually withdrew early from the gatherings, seeking refuge instead in his own hobbies, mostly related to scientific experiments.
With the pharaoh, Archnemon's relationship was very different. She had perceived in him a patient, serene, and unflappable man, especially in his dealings with her, although he did not always show that same calm with his children. Over the years, Pharaohmon had been forged by the vicissitudes of government, acquiring a fully developed maturity that contrasted with the impulsiveness of his eldest son. The pharaoh's vast experience in leadership and politics gave him infinite wisdom, something that Archnemon greatly appreciated, valuing every word of advice he offered her. Despite their differences of opinion, Pharaohmon seemed to have inexhaustible patience with her, never judging her for her contrary views. This mutual understanding and respect were the foundation of a peculiar but profound relationship between the enigmatic visitor and the wise ruler of Sand Zone.
The main problem lay with Pharaohmon's second son. From the first encounter, Gravimon made it clear that he considered Archnemon an intruder. Unlike his older brother, Gravimon possessed a mindset that was halfway between Junior's and his father's. Despite his youth, he showed exceptional maturity and remarkable intelligence, always expressing his opinion firmly and at the right time. For this reason, all conversations between him and the stranger took place behind closed doors, without the prying eyes of his father or his brother, where mutual distrust and suspicion were palpable.
The main issue resided with Pharaohmon's second son. From their first encounter, Gravimon made it clear that he considered Archnemon an intruder. Unlike his older brother, Gravimon possessed a mindset that was halfway between Junior's and his father's. Despite his youth, he showed exceptional maturity and remarkable intelligence, always expressing his opinion firmly and at the right time. For this reason, all conversations between him and the stranger took place behind closed doors, without the tone escalating more than necessary. No biting remarks were needed, as both perfectly understood each other's intentions and knew how to communicate without resorting to harsh words.
The relationship between Gravimon and Archnemon was marked by a silent tension, where every gesture and word were carefully weighed in search of clues about each other's true intentions. Although Gravimon appeared reserved and cautious in Archnemon's presence, his cunning and mental sharpness were evident to the visitor. She did not underestimate the young prince's intelligence, recognizing in him a worthy opponent.
For his part, Gravimon watched Archnemon with suspicion, aware that her intentions could endanger the kingdom's balance. Although his father seemed pleased with the stranger's presence, Gravimon did not share his enthusiasm and preferred to remain alert to any signs of danger. His reserved attitude and ability to analyze every situation allowed him to anticipate Archnemon's movements, preparing for any eventuality that might arise.
As the days passed, the relationship between Gravimon and Archnemon became more complex, weaving a web of intrigue and distrust that threatened to disrupt the kingdom's stability. Although they maintained a facade of courtesy and respect in public, privately each sought to unravel the other's secrets, trying to decipher their true intentions and protect the interests of their family and people.
For Archnemon, the mental games unleashed by Gravimon provided intriguing entertainment. She quickly realized that Gravimon feared his future position as ruler might be usurped, and although she had insisted that once she achieved her goal, she would depart to her own kingdom, the young prince was adamant not to believe her. So, in the end, to make her stay more interesting and enjoyable, she decided to play along.
However, for Gravimon, she represented a threat, especially due to the influence she had over his father and brother. He had always felt distant from them, more attached to the memories of his late mother. With Archnemon's arrival, the gap between him and his family seemed to widen even further, increasing the sense of alienation and distrust towards the new intruder.
As the tension between Gravimon and Archnemon grew, every move became a calculated strategy, a step in a chess game where the consequences could be disastrous. Archnemon's constant presence in Sand Zone began to generate unease and discomfort among Pharaohmon's servants, influenced by Gravimon's observations and comments, who viewed with suspicion the bonds being forged between the mysterious visitor and the royal family. They dubbed her "the lady of the parasol," as many did not know her identity firsthand.
Prince Gravimon and Pharaohmon himself, moved by a curiosity tinged with distrust, had attempted on several occasions to learn more about Archnemon's past, but their efforts proved futile. Despite their power and influence, Archnemon's secrets were well guarded, shrouded in a veil of mystery that allowed no glimmer of light. Junior, on the other hand, seemed oblivious to these inquiries, showing seemingly blind trust towards the mysterious visitor, as if Archnemon's past had no relevance to him.
But the true tragedy was about to unfold when Dokugumon, one of Archnemon's loyal servants, decided to embark on a quest to find her mistress. The spiders' decision to send her servant in search of news plunged her into a whirlwind of thoughts and concerns. The news of her delay in the assigned mission began to leak, causing concern among her loyal followers and raising questions about the true motives behind her prolonged absence.
Dokugumon had embarked on an arduous and exhausting journey that took her across long distances throughout the Xross Continent, facing challenges and dangers on her way to Sand Zone. Since her departure, concern had been growing among Archnemon's servants, who eagerly awaited her return. According to the calculations and estimates she had shared with her entourage before leaving, Archnemon's mission should have concluded by now, according to the calculations she had presented to them before her mission began. Yet there she was, months after her departure, still unresolved.
After several months of absence, Archnemon's servants began to worry about her prolonged delay. With no news from their mistress, some began to fear the worst. In an attempt to calm their concerns, Archnemon had sent a missive explaining that she would be delayed in her mission, but the deadline for the proposed extension had expired and there were still no signs of her return.
Dokugumon consoled herself by rereading the letter over and over:
"My dear servants,
I hope this letter finds you in good health. I am writing to inform you that my mission in Sand Zone has encountered certain unexpected setbacks that have delayed my return. Although I had initially estimated that I would be back within a certain timeframe, the circumstances have been more complex than anticipated.
I will take longer to return to Insect Jungle than previously expected. I deeply regret the delay and any inconvenience this may have caused. Your loyalty and support mean a great deal to me, and I am committed to meeting the expectations you have placed on me as your leader.
I miss you more than you can imagine and eagerly await the moment when I can reunite with all of you again. In the meantime, I urge you to continue with your usual duties and remain calm during my absence. There is no need for concern, as I am safe thanks to the hospitality of the inhabitants of the area.
I request an extension of three weeks to successfully complete my mission and ensure that I return with valuable information for our kingdom.
With appreciation and gratitude,
Archnemon"
Rumours began as a whisper among the inhabitants of Sand Zone, but soon spread like wildfire throughout the city. It was said that a Dokugumon was approaching the city, bringing news of her queen, Archnemon. The accounts quickly spread throughout the city, triggering a wave of speculation and concern among the inhabitants of Sand Zone. Merchants traversing the desert claimed to have spotted a brightly colored spider prowling in the dunes. The journey from the desert to the city could take several days without the right route or vehicle, and Archnemon knew she had to act quickly to confirm or refute these rumours.
Leaving the comforts of the purple pyramid, Archnemon ventured into the desert, feeling the sand under her feet and the hot sun on her skin. Although she felt somewhat guilty for being away from her duties in Sand Zone for so long, she was also fascinated by the opportunity to explore and discover more about the world around her. The feeling of freedom and adventure enveloped her, and for a moment, she forgot her worries and responsibilities.
As she walked through the golden dunes, Archnemon spotted in the distance the familiar figure of Dokugumon. Her heart raced with anticipation as she approached, eager to hear the news she brought. Dokugumon welcomed her with reverence, confirming the rumours that had circulated through the city.
At the same time Archnemon advanced through the desert in search of Dokugumon, Gravimon followed closely, hidden among the dunes. He followed her steps cautiously, keeping her in sight until they finally reached a secluded spot where Archnemon stopped to converse with Dokugumon. Gravimon, hidden in the shadows, listened attentively to their exchange, capturing every word and gesture as the two figures spoke in hushed tones. The conversation between Archnemon and Dokugumon revealed intriguing details about the queen's plans and the mysterious circumstances surrounding her prolonged absence.
"What news do you bring from Insect Jungle, Dokugumon?" Archnemon inquired calmly, her eyes not reflecting the concern she harbored inside.
Dokugumon, looking eagerly at her mistress, bowed slightly, pleased to see her again safe and sound. "My queen, the rumours of your prolonged absence have caused unrest among your servants. They are worried about your well-being and long for your return," she responded with a hint of apprehension in her voice, her legs trembling slightly from the tension.
"Understand that my mission has become more complicated than expected. However, I have obtained valuable information that could be crucial for our future plans," explained Archnemon, trying to convey reassurance to her messenger as she shared her concerns. Dokugumon nodded, pleased. She tried to get closer to hear better.
"Whatever you tell me is enough for us, my queen. Knowing about your well-being is all we care about." The deep admiration they harbored for her sickened Gravimon, who continued to listen. It was unimaginable for any Digimon in their right mind. To them, Archnemon seemed like a goddess.
As she thought about what more to tell Dokugumon, Archnemon then noticed Gravimon's presence. The prince was forced to openly join the conversation.
"What is happening here?" Archnemon inquired, noting the tension in the air.
"Who is this one daring to bother you, my queen?" asked Dokugumon, confused by the sudden interruption. She became alert, ready to attack to protect Archnemon if necessary.
"Calm down, Dokugumon, he is an acquaintance. And Gravimon, this is just one of my servants. She has come due to not having received news from me."
"Does she plan to stay indefinitely, like you, Archnemon?" Gravimon asked, with a barely disguised tone of challenge.
"She was about to leave," declared the sovereign of that land so distant from Sand Zone, trying to keep calm in the uncomfortable situation. "Retire, Dokugumon, and report what I have told you. If I have not returned in a month, come and look for me."
Dokugumon nodded, and turned around, uncomfortable with Gravimon's presence. It was better for her to comply with the order and leave.
Gravimon, on the other hand, analyzed what had just happened. One of Archnemon's servants was there to apparently check on her mistress's status. And she was sending her back to her within a month. However, the use of the plural verb tormented him. "Come" indicated that several would go to look for her. Was she planning to invade Sand Zone?
"Do you wish to ask me anything else, or can I start the journey back to my quarters?" Archnemon asked, trying to end the uncomfortable encounter.
"I think I should, but first I must measure my words," replied Gravimon, with a penetrating look.
"I don't think you should measure them. What you have to do is clarify your thoughts. You never really have a clear idea of what you think of me. More specifically, you don't quite understand my way of acting," Archnemon countered, with a slight nod.
"That's because you don't let anyone glimpse your true intentions," Gravimon interjected, with a tone of distrust in his voice.
"No, it's because all your assumptions are based on incorrect premises," Archnemon retorted, remaining calm despite the growing tension.
"I am wise enough not to make mistakes in my premises," Gravimon asserted, with an almost arrogant certainty.
"That's precisely the problem: you are, or you believe yourself to be so wise, that you blind yourself. You try to tangle things up when there is really no problem at all," Archnemon concluded, with an enigmatic smile.
"It's you who deceives us to entangle us in your spider's web. It's the same thing you're trying to do now," accused Gravimon, with a glint of distrust in his eyes.
"If that's what you really think…" Archnemon smiled, leaving the sentence hanging in the air as an invitation to reflection. "I could stop to refute all your accusations, but it would be so incredibly boring... And there are so many things to do here that it would be a waste."
As Dokugumon departed and disappeared into the distance, Archnemon and Gravimon were left alone in the desert, enveloped in tense silence. Their eyes met in an exchange of glances that reflected the deep divide between them. Archnemon felt trapped in a web of intrigues and expectations, struggling to maintain balance between her duties as a sovereign and her own personal aspirations. On the other hand, Gravimon, with his penetrating gaze and sharp mind, could not help but feel a profound distrust towards the enigmatic visitor who had disrupted the stability of his world.
For Archnemon, every step she took in this new territory was an opportunity to explore and discover, but also a constant reminder of the responsibility that rested on her shoulders. Each interaction with Gravimon was a reminder of the fragile line between trust and distrust, and how a simple misunderstanding could unleash unforeseen consequences.
Meanwhile, Gravimon found himself trapped in a sea of doubts and suspicions, questioning every move Archnemon made and desperately seeking answers to justify his mistrust. Despite his apparent confidence, he felt uncomfortable in the visitor's presence, aware that her influence over his father and brother could endanger the kingdom's stability.
Amidst the vastness of the desert, both found themselves at a turning point, where the fate of their worlds intertwined in ways they could not yet comprehend. And as the sun set on the horizon, Archnemon and Gravimon remained motionless, each lost in their own thoughts, wondering what the future held and what role they would play in the events to come.
With her gaze fixed on the horizon, Archnemon turned around and began to walk back the same way she had come. She did not like to confront Gravimon in open field and without witnesses. She did not know the limit of the heir's patience, and she knew that, given the manifest hatred they felt for each other, one day he would try to get rid of her...
Gravimon, on the other hand, silently observed as Archnemon walked away, his mind working in the shadows of suspicion. He knew he would not take any action until he had sufficient evidence of the visitor's machinations. However, that would not happen until a month after this last encounter, but neither of them could know...