The Night Blooms

by The Blue Tigrex

The worst has happened. The other orders of digimon are gone. The Demon Lords forces are marching closer by the day. The Royal Knights can feel the pressure by the hour. Desperate times call for desperate measures, and so Alphamon asks Lord Drasil to reactivate the chosen system to bring forth a group of humans to help save their world... But Lucemon was way ahead of them...

15. Chapter 14

Chapter 14

Sanguinem

…..

Black slowly and warily led the group consisting of herself, Victor, Sif, Clive, Jordan, and Luna deeper into the mansion. Hoping that perhaps there was maybe a way to the roof and a riskier escape method there, they had ascended the staircase in the foyer to the top floor.

She could feel it in her digicore, that every shadow was watching them. She could have swore as they traversed the red carpeted hallway, that the statues and paintings were eyeing their movement as well, as though waiting for them to make a singular, stupid move.

She hissed in frustration as she spoke to the group behind her, "I feel like a toy for someone, and this is not a feeling I am enjoying."

"A mutual feeling," Clive would respond to her as he glanced back to where Sif and Luna were guarding the groups backside, "I am certain that a portion of this places décor is deciding whether we are worth the effort..."

"Could be they're observing for something else," Victor would interject, "Which is definitely worse."

"It's a question of whether we're being hunted by a group or an individual..."

Clive would stroke his beard as he looked forward to where Black was guiding them, "But perhaps we will find answers there..."

As Clive spoke this, the hallway would transform into a massive banquet hall. The core colors were as the hallway, all manners of blacks and reds that appeared to be fanciful and richly made. In the center of the room was a massive table, long and sized well enough for humans. With tall chairs made of steel and leather facing a rather human-like banquet placed on the table. Food and drink, rich and delicious, sat waiting to be devoured by anyone who sat down at it. What appeared to be wine gently lapped in the fanciful glasses as the visitors swore there was cooked turkey gently letting off heat fresh from the oven.. The walls were decorated in all manners of paintings and portraits. Apparently depicting rather human looking individuals, but all with notably pale skin and pointed ears.

It didn't take much to cause that to dawn on Clive, "Oh. I think I have a sudden hold on what our host is..."

"I do hope you will refer to a host in a more respectful manner than as a what," A deep and commanding voice spoke from the head of the table.

Everyone looked to the table and at the figure who they all swore had not been in the room when they initially walked in. Just as the many portraits, he appeared rather human-like at first glance, but his pale blue skin and pointed ears gave him away as a digimon. His blonde hair was combed back, three sets of strands gently flowing in front of his face. His nose was chizzled and sharp, as was his rather handsome jawline. His lips were a pale red and thick while notably two sharp fangs emerged from his mouth proudly. His outfit was particularly outlandish, as though to announce what he was with bat-themed imagery. His cape was hanged over his throne-like chair, black and red with large wing-like pieces of cloth emerging at the neck. He had a red handkerchief neatly tucked into his elegant blue suit, a pair of belts wrapped around his waist as golden accents and buttons lined the front of it, with a large golden bat acting as a large pin, likely both as decoration and for when he wore his cape. His arms were eerily long, with green cuffs around his wrists supporting the black gloves he wore as he sipped what seemed to be a cup of wine, which looked a bit too thick for the liquid. The party couldn't see it, but he additionally wore a pair of black boots, one decorated with the symbol of a silver bat and the other with a silver skull. Upon his shoulders, the bat symbol repeated, although in bright red instead of silver before appearing again on his gloves as silver once more.

Bright blue eyes with terrifying slits for pupils watched the group as on the table laid a red mask, tipped with bat-like wings as though to finish his announcement of being...

"A vampire digimon..." Clive muttered to himself.

Black, Sif, and Luna immediately jumped in front of the table, ready to defend their partners from the Digimon before them.

Victor frowned, "Is our host going to introduce himself so that we may do the same in return, then?"

"Ah, familiar with the etiquette of betters?" The human-like digimon smiled before taking a sip of his 'wine' and standing to bow, "I am Myotismon. Baron of both this castle and forest. Of which, I may say, you have intruded on."

Clive muttered a curse as he looked to Victor then at Jordan before responding in kind to the vampire, "I am Clive Williams, grand strategist and future savior of this world from the Demon Lords."

Clive did not offer the bow in return, wary as he was of this individual.

"Victor Kee Von Jotunheim," he took a page from something he did in his free time and gave a title of his own as he bowed in return, "Wanderer."

Myotismon's eyes would float over Jordan, "And you?"

Jordan gulped before following Victor's example, struggling to get his name out, "J-Jordan Bennett."

"No title, hm? Perhaps you have yet to earn one then," Myotismon noted before waving to the table, "You do not have to be so wary. Take a seat. Enjoy yourselves."

The digimon partners were not going to let their guard down only for Clive to wave them down, "Do what he says for now."

He would shrug as he walked up to and whispered to Black in particular, "Those hounds are in the shadows with and a third is up the stairwell behind Myotismon..."

Black would glance, just briefly enough to try and make it not obvious that she and Clive knew about their state.

She couldn't make it out entirely, hiding in the shadows as it was, but it was a humanoid figure with far, far too many blades on it from what she could see.

Sif grit her teeth as Victor nodded in agreement with Clive's assessment, the Kyubimon allowing her form to fall back down to that of Renamon as Black returned to the form of Black PawnChessmon.

Jordan looked at Luna, far more hesitant to let do so compared to the other two. If they changed back, they didn't stand a chance at all if Myotismon ordered his minions on them, but if they didn't relax, would they stand a chance anyways? Was this really their best option?

Victor would walk up to Jordan and put a hand on his shoulder, saying to him, "Jordan, please, trust him on this one."

Jordan gripped his hands before going to Luna, "You can... Relax."

The Lekismon would look at him worriedly before allowing herself to return to being Lunamon.

"Come, humans and digimon both. We have much to discuss," Myotismon would state as he sat back down, "I am quite interested to hear the stories of each and every one of you."

…..

Being plant-based Digimon, Ajatarmon and the two Shurimon were masters in camouflage, which helped them as they traversed Circuit Forest towards the Hagith Legion camp.

The trio stopped atop the branches. Ajatarmon hand-signaling the two champions, "Remember: This is enemy territory. Stick to the shadows, make no mistakes, and be wary of the night watch."

The two plant champions nodded before the three continued forward to their mission.

Within an hour, they had reached the outskirts of the encampment and passed the patrol of Digimon circling the entrances and walls. It was almost concerning how simple it was.

The assassins prepared their blades. In the depths of enemy territory, who knew what dark and evil Digimon lurked within Beelzemon's Legion?

"Look! I'm telling ya! If ya attached rockets to me, I'm sure I could reach maximum velocity in no time!"

"The last time you said that you went to the magic folks and ended up exploding the cafeteria, Machmon."

"I did everyone a favor! Witchmon was the chef that day!"

A loud crash quickly followed the conversation.

"You cheated at cards, Shootmon!"

"Lies and slander, Grizzlymon! I played fair this time!"

"WHAT DO YOU MEAN, "THIS TIME"!?"

A roar and more violence quickly followed the sounds of the first crash.

"Venusmon is the hottest Olympian Digimon!"

"No, Dianamon is hotter!"

"I mean, Apollomon is LITERALLY the Sun DigiGRAAK!?"

The sounds of even more violence joined the fray, with a fight quickly spreading and growing like wildfire.

... The trio of assassins did not know what to expect when entering the Hagith Legion encampment, but they did not anticipate its warriors fighting with each other in a bar brawl instead of sleeping.

In fact, the three were directly under several torches, but no one paid them any mind as the infighting started to spread through the camp. They had expected more evil and dark Digimon, but the assassins found it odd how diverse the Digimon were in the legion.

Standing in silence among the shadows for several moments, Ajatarmon was the first to find his mind as he signaled to the others to move before someone spotted them.

When they were out of sight, one of the Shurimon signaled, "What will we do now?"

"Stick to the plan." Ajatarmon signaled back. "Search for a key officer."

The moment he finished the three quickly realized that silence had filled the area. The bar fight had stopped dead in its tracks, and the three Royal Knight Digimon turned to see what stopped all that noise.

All the troublemakers stood up straight as they could. Their vision on the towering electric samurai, Kazuchimon, who scanned them all with commanding eyes.

"If you are all so spirited," Thunder cackled around Kazuchimon's form, "Then none of you should have any trouble running ten laps around the campsite."

It looked like some wanted to groan, but they all held it in. They feared what their general could do if displeased.

"Begin."

With a single word, the trouble-making Digimon scattered towards one of the exits, filing out as quickly as they could.

But as the area cleared, Kazuchimon stilled before glancing in the direction of the assassins.

The general saw nothing but shrubbery yet something felt off to him. He stared for several more seconds before turning around to ensure those taking laps would properly do their task.

The shrubbery promptly turned back into Ajatarmon and Shurimon upon the general's leave, and all three shuddered as they reeled from having felt death staring them down at that moment.

"W-We can't take that one down," A Shurimon gasped between breaths.

"Agreed," Ajatarmon kept his gaze where the mega left, in case he returned, "Even in the off chance that one let his guard down, I doubt we could so much as scratch him."

"What if all the key officers are like that? What do we do?" The other Shurimon asked their leader.

Ajatarmon was at a loss for words. What would they do if all key officers were potent megas?

But they weren't out of luck yet.

"Hey, where is everybody?"

A young voice caused the three to see a Coronamon and a human standing in the middle of the now empty area

"I did hear fighting and Kazuchimon was ahead of us," The human mused out loud.

The Coronamon shivered, "Ugh. I hate it when Kazuchimon makes us do drills..."

The human gave a deadpan glare to his rookie, "Coro, he'd stop doing that if we behaved properly."

"But why does he make us do it!? We're the same rank as him, Arshan!" The fire Digimon exasperatedly made signs to his partner.

"He's still stronger and more skilled than you even after reaching mega," The human corrected his companion.

As the two began to argue, they started to move further into camp.

The three plant Digimon looked at each other. Yes, they heard what the two blundered out loud. Their mission would go on and they now had two new targets.

…...

Ryu's eyes slowly opened, his hands instinctively feeling the sorry excuse for bedding beneath him in the form of a makeshift cot.

Above him, the ceiling of a cave met his vision. He could hear the sound of running water in the distance and the breathing of others in the room alongside him.

He slowly sat up, scanning to see his fellow chosen still asleep. Kyou would let out a snore every so often, absolutely crashed as he was in his cot while Cecilia was curled up rather like a cat, exhaustion having taken its toll on her.

The young man slowly got out of the cot, standing and stretching before making his way towards the sound of running water.

He used his arm to block the light as he entered, letting his eyes adjust as he heard the voices of Gallantmon and BanchLeomon talking.

"To Spiral City? You must be mad. The place is crawling with Demon Lord Digimon by now," he heard Gallantmon first.

"I assure you, if there is a place you desire to stay low to train the humans in. Spiral City is the place to be. Assuming their own chosen are not present, the chasm below the city's maintenance tunnels is ideal as a place to train them. The only Digimon that far down would be feral and only at their ultimate level at best. While Spiral City itself will offer protection among the many Digimon among being so varied they would only ever be able to identify you."

"And how exactly would I protect my charges if I can't be with them?"

"That is the trick, my old friend," Ryu lowered his arm to see BanchoLeomon offering Gallantmon a massive cloak, "Simplicity."

Around them was a small paradise. A garden hidden from the world as a crystal above rained light down onto the garden below. Strange and alien plant-life grew among the rocks with bizarre and colorful flowers as a series of small creeks flowed through the place, heading deeper into the cave where the plant-life grew thicker. Ryu figured that his partner and the other Bancho were likely somewhere deeper as well.

Gallantmon raised a brow inside his helm, "You're serious."

"Always. Although I have noticed that you too have lost much of your old comedic streak."

"I guess I've just come to see there's a time and place for it."

BanchoLeomon was about to respond when he noticed Ryu, "Ah. The first of you to wake."

Ryu was still looking around when he was addressed, asking the obvious question to the lionman, "How long was I out?"

"Around a day in your human hours," he responded, "Gallantmon asked far too much of the lot of you, as I have expressed to him."

"That's... Know what, fair enough," The Royal Knight responded with a sigh, "Although it was never my intention to get here as fast as we did. I didn't want to risk whatever the Demon Lords wanted with them."

Ryu would sit on the ground crossing his legs, "What would they want with us actually?"

"Honestly, I have no idea," Gallantmon responded, "I expected that any forces we ran into were just going to attempt to murder us all but so far... It's been mostly attempted kidnapping."

"Perhaps they simply seek to prevent their enemies chosen from garnering as much as strength as their own," BanchoLeomon responded.

"Leo, don't you think that's obvious," Gallantmon retorted as he shortened his friends name, "But they could just throw themselves at us in their entirety and call it a day if that was all there was..."

"Then perhaps it may have to do with Lilithmon herself in this region," BanchoLeomon raised a point as Ryu raised an eyebrow, merely choosing to listen from right now.

"What about her?" Gallantmon responded as he leaned against the cave wall.

"I have not seen her myself in this region, but I have noted that she is... Less bloodthirsty than she was before."

"The embodiment of lust not being driven by bloodlust?"

"Believe me or not, it does seem to be true. She seems to have been tempered by unseen forces. Perhaps such may become true of the other lords?"

"Doubtful," Gallantmon responded, "Leviamon seemed eager enough to murder Examon and force him to divide back into Breakdramon and Slayerdramon."

BanchoLeomon frowned, "I see... But war is different from seeing an individual. Casualties-"

"Leo, please. Don't go there."

"... Of course, sorry old friend."

Ryu noted the mood and went to try to push it a different way, "So what is this place exactly?"

BanchoLeomon would look to Ryu, "This place? We Bancho simply refer to as the Sanctuary. A place for the weak to find safety from the war outside."

"Does that mean?"

"Yes, there are other Digimon here. Deeper within. We considered it safer to keep you and your fellow humans away however. There are some among our refugees we feel may be compelled to attack you if we were to bring you among them."

"I still can't believe you're watching over those who threw their lot in with Beelzemon," Gallantmon muttered.

"Not all are as lucky as we are," BanchoLeomon responded, "Many have no choice but to seek what will be better for their own lives. Your companions in the Royal Knights have not always tended to the aftermath of their actions."

"I... Am aware."

Ryu raised a brow, "Aren't you guys supposed to be the protectors of the Digital World?"

Gallantmon looked away sheepishly, "Ideally, yeah. In reality? Most of us have different ideas how to operate. I try to travel as much as I can, Omnimon deals with every damn problem he so much as sees, but then we have those like Craniamon who uh... Well."

"They only do as they lord commands. No more. No less," BanchoLeomon would finish for Gallantmon, "And that does not always help those who cannot help themselves. Sometimes, it is worse than that. More than few Royal Knights have abused their titles in the past."

"None that are current at least," Gallantmon responded to that as he looked back to Ryu, "Closest one to recent was Omnimon's predecessor. The last war we fought before this one..."

"His actions were not that of an abuser, Gallantmon," BanchoLeomon leapt to the prior Omnimon's defense, "His growing tired of his Lord's inaction is merely a separation of ideals."

Ryu ate up this information, "So even Digimon have civil wars, huh..."

"As long as people have differences, conflict will erupt, but this is the price we pay for free will," BanchoLeomon responded to Ryu's murmur, "But so it is thus that the opportunity for improvement will emerge."

Ryu sat in his thoughts for a moment before asking, "Would it be alright if I go down to meet these other Digimon?"

"I do not see why not," The lionman responded while Gallantmon merely shrugged in approval before BanchoLeomon continued, "Head down the path, it will guide you as you need it to."

Ryu would slowly stand before making his way to that hall, "Thanks."

He could hear the two megas resume their conversation as he made his way into the hall, the crystalline light fading only for a blue glow overhead to appear and move ahead of him, dimly lighting the way as the grass reached up to his waist.

Indeed, it seemed to try to be guiding him, leading him down various paths along what was clearly an extremely complex cave system.

Ryu passed a few different Digimon while heading into the depths, of which he greeted each of them in different ways.

He noted however that nearly all of them seemed stunned to see him, though some had slightly different reactions then others...

Was it because of the difference between Royal Knight and Demon Lord?

But as light once again filled his vision and the cave seemed to rapidly expand, his thoughts were replaced with one word as he saw the world below the frozen mountain.

"Woah."

…...

Although Kazuchimon sent a good hundred Digimon off running, it didn't detract from the Hagith Legions forces. Arshan and Coro walked through other camp areas, filled with high-spirited Digimon actively doing things like arm-wrestling, drinking, and even doing races with Machmons. There were those sleeping, but they looked accustomed to all the chaos around them.

Or they were knocked unconscious. It was hard to tell.

Still, Ajatarmon and the two Shurimon stalked the two generals, taking extra care not to be seen by the active members of the Hagith Legion.

"Yo! Arshan and Coro!" A blue MegaKabuterimon flew over to the pair before landing in front of them. "I'm heading off to teach the Tankmon how to play Baseball. Wanna come?"

The human boy's features lit up at the mention of this "baseball" the assassins weren't familiar with. However, the brunette sighed deeply. "I wish, Blue, but BZ dumped all the paperwork on me about this next assault. Maybe next time."

"I'll stick with Arshan," Coro spoke up, "Make sure they can shoot or throw a mean curveball!"

"Ah, well. Maybe next time, you two," The ultimate bug flew towards a different direction of the camp.

One of the Shurimon noticed the area around the two cleared up, showing no signs of any other nearby Digimon. Taking his chance, the Champion leapt out, spinning his bladed limbs right for the two—

"Duck!"

A voice from a different direction made the pair of generals hit the ground. Instead, a crate flew in from the direction of the Shurimon, faster than he could react, and slammed into the Champion. The Shurimon was conscious as he was pushed away from his targets, but darkness overcame him when something hit his back.

Arshan and Coro got back up.

"Sorry about that!" A green, humanoid Digimon moved in to look at who had dodged the crates. He was cybernetic, with a diamond shaped helm, a large ring around his back, and split toes. In the place of arms, he had large flame cutters that were currently off, "Oh! Generals! Extra sorry about that. A fight broke out near the supplies section—something about calling BigMamemon fat. One of them picked up and threw a crate in this here direction. Did ya happen to see it?"

The pair got back up. "Oh? Hey, Fujinmon. I didn't know you were back. But—uh—yeah?" Arshan pointed to where a pile of boxes was destroyed, along with a sprawled Shurimon underneath it all, "Oh. You should bring that guy to ShouCutemon."

"On it, general! After I settle down these here folks," The green Digimon flew to where there seemed to be more infighting.

The second Shurimon made his way towards the downed first one until Ajatarmon pulled his shoulder.

"Leave him," The Ultimate signaled, "We must follow our targets. He'll escape later."

The Shurimon begrudgingly agreed before chasing after the two.

"They were lucky," Ajatarmon narrowed his eyes as he continued to follow the pair, "They will not be a second time."

His first and last mistake was thinking they were protected by "good" luck.

"I better get back to my quarters and finish the paperwork," The human sighed at the thought of doing more official documents.

Even Coro blanched at the thought of it, even though he never touched any of the papers Arshan had to do, "Why are there always so many?"

"Because Barbramon just up and left us while Milana is now sending some of the Penumbra Legion to our aid," The teen groaned into his palms after cupping his face.

Coro perked up after hearing the name, as did their stalkers, "Lord Lucemon's Legion, huh? Do you know what they're like?"

Arshan removed his hands, "No, but I hope she doesn't send Armageddemon." The human shivered, as did both Shurimon and Ajatarmon, "It gives me the creeps."

The two plant Digimon turned to stare at each other. Lucemon's Legion was coming to aid Beelzemon's!? And Armageddemon, a Digimon sealed similarly to Leviamon for its destructive power, was among Lucemon's forces!? These facts alone made their mission that much more epochal.

The second Shurimon saw his chance. Making sure that nothing outside his sight was moving, he raced behind the two. Instead of a close-range attack, he'd use a long-range one to—

The tent entrance the Shurimon stood next to suddenly exploded with light.

Arshan and Coro looked back, only to see a Digimon petrified in stone.

"Whoops!" Out of the tent, a Witchmon ran out, "I didn't hit anyone with that spell, did I?"

Her eyes fell on the petrified Shurimon. "Uh oh."

"Witchmon!" Arshan and Coro ran up to the champion, "What did I tell you about testing transmutation magic in the middle of the camp!?"

"It wasn't transmutation magic! It was supposed to be a teleportation spell!" The champion huffed.

"Teleporting?" Coro looked at the stature formerly known as Shurimon, "Well, how long will this last?"

"That's a good question!" The Witchmon elatedly shouted before faltering under the judgmental glares of her leaders, "I should find Wizardmon now, shouldn't I?"

They both nodded.

"F-Fine! You can send him to ShouCutemon first! I'll meet you there with Wizardmon in case she can't fix him up!"

Ajatarmon would have groaned if he was not highly trained in espionage, "Perhaps it was a mistake to do this outside their camp. Once they're indoors, then I'll strike."

A loud cracking sound erupted as he finished his thought.

Coro, as Firamon, and Arshan stared at the floor where Shurimon's petrified leg fell.

"... Shoucutemon can fix that, right?"

"..."

"Arshan, she can fix that, right? And if not, Wizardmon can, right?"

"..."

"Arshan? Arshan!?"

"We should go faster," Arshan picked up the piece before he and his champion sprinted towards what looked to be the biggest tent in the camp. Ajatarmon noticed the cross symbol signaling a medical tent.

The Ultimate expected a lot of nursing beds, yet all he saw was what looked to be a makeshift stage that poorly resembled a theater. Arshan and Coro put the petrified champion down on a bed placed in the center of makeshift seats.

"Shoucutemon!" Arshan cupped his hands and looked around, "We've got another guy!"

Only then did Ajatarmon recognize the name: Cutemon. He heard rumors of small Digimon capable of great healing. But why was one of their kind helping the Demon Lords? And what was this Shou-Cutemon? Some variant he had never heard of before?

"Ah, hail dearies!" A deep, booming female voice cried out. Ajatarmon blinked as he saw what looked like a cross between a Shoutmon and a Cutemon. A fusion? But she looked so horrifically silly! "What a lovely statue. I'm sure it'll make a great set piece for the stage!"

"Witchmon petrified one of our men," Arshan nervously laughed and rubbed the back of his head. "Until Wizardmon comes, we were hoping..." The teen raised the broken limb.

"Nuh worries," The fusion said. "I've been dealing with accidental petrification since them Cockatrimon and Akatorimon were joining us. Give it here."

The generals sighed in relief as they handed the limb over.

Ajatarmon's eyes realized this was an opportune moment before him. Not only were there key officers of the Hagith Legion before him but their best healer! If he got rid of these officers, the Hagith Legion would be crippled! He waited a bit as Shoucutemon placed her hands on the Shurimon and started to heal his limb and petrified state.

"Now, who be this Digimon?" The pink fusion asked. "I ain't no seein' him before."

"Oh yeah. Is he one of the scouts?" Coro looked to Arshan.

The human tilted his head, "Hey. Wait no. We have Chameleonmons and Kogamons. I don't remember seeing this guy in our scouting group."

Ajatarmon's eyes widened as he realized his targets were getting suspicious. It seemed like he'd have to forsake his teammate being healed after all. He rushed in, hatchet armed and ready to cleave three heads clean off.

He would find his hatchet just a few inches short of Arshan's head, a short sword intercepting the gap beneath his hatchets head.

The first thing Ajatarmon noted was... Black...feathers...?

Ajatarmon realized that a figure in black blocked his attack with a sword. Ebony wings extended outward and eyes redder than blood glowered into Ajatarmon's digicore.

"How ill-fated it is that the day I choose to re-organize security detail, assassins choose to strike my charges?" With a calm voice, the masked Digimon forced the assassin away, forcing Ajartarmon to stagger back in imbalance.

"C-Captain Karatenmon!" Arshan and the others backed off.

The newly appeared Digimon was akin to a humanoid crow. With black wings carrying his form quietly as a purple mask covered his head. Similarly colored armor covered his chest, his forearms, and thighs. A brown belt held both a ragged coat and a pair of red sheathes for the pair of swords he was holding in yellow talons. Red bandages covered his upper arms and baggy white pants his legs as his taloned feet floated above the earth. Karatenmon aimed one of his swords at his charges assailent in preperation.

Coro growled and stepped forward, only for the black Digimon to block him with other other blade, "With respect, General, your power will burn down the medical wing. Allow me to correct my mistake."

…..

"Gamba tornado!"

"Dragon's roar!"

Dynasmon and Alizee sent another group of ravenous Digimon reeling into the trees before the Royal Knight would snatch his protegee and disappear.

Yet, as they still moved North, a deep pit nestled its way into his stomach, "They should have met up with us by now."

Alizee had barely been keeping up with the hit and run battle style she and Dynasmon were executing, and so took a moment to realize what the Royal Knight meant, "... Are we far enough North?"

"I can see the edges of the trees only a few dozen meters out," Dynasmon responded as they stormed through the trees, "Clive and Victor should have guided the group here without too much effort, even had some of Barbamon's champions or even ultimates intercepted them. No... Something else must have happened."

Dynasmon would suddenly stop, allowing Alizee to float just above the ground and catch her breath before asking, "Do we go after them?"

The Royal Knight's bright red eyes looked into her visor, "... Alizee, what I am about to ask of you may anger you."

She crossed her arms and frowned.

"... But I would ask that you continue onward to the city on foot, staying within the form of Kazemon. In the worst case scenario-"

"Dynasmon, please."

"My protegee," Dynasmon would directly refer to her as his student, "If the others are in direct danger, or worse, Barbamon or his commanders have intercepted them, we will need an escape route. If we have no plan where to go. His troops will eventually overwhelm and exterminate us like a group of wayward numemon. I am trusting you, both to stay safe, and to grant me a route of exit to bring the others back on."

Alizee ached as Dynasmon spoke, her being wanted nothing more than to go after her comrades and save them from whatever horrible situation they had found themselves in...

But in the end, she understood what her master said and that where he was trusting her with this, she needed to trust him with saving the others, "I... I will."

…...

Jordan hated how delicious the food was that Myotismon had placed before them.

It was distinctly like that of the human world, whether Myotismon knew more of the human realm then he let on or if he was a master of illusion, it was distinctly that.

The master of the mansion had delighted himself with conversing with the group, of which he was eerily cooperative in answering their questions as much as they asked their own.

It was devious in Jordan's eyes, how the vampire used his authority to keep putting pressure on them. To keep them in this trap. And he so distinctly disliked the fear in heart. The fear that he may lose his companions now. That he might lose Luna.

The others however were eager to get information on the demon lords, even in the Den of Evil as they were...

Victor was the one to finally ask outright due to their hosts eagerness to share, "If it is right to ask, why is it that the demon lords are seemingly divided in their goals? A town that... Was founded by Beelzemon was attacked by Barbamon's forces in what looked to be an entirely separate force from the one pursuing us."

"The Seven Great Demon Lords have always been a tentative partnership," Myotismon answered before taking another sip of wine, "Although if one were to be honest, it is Barbamon and Daemon that prove to be the defining... Malefactors shall we say? I would argue that if it were not for them, then the conquest of the Digital World would be further along in the department of actually taking territory."

Clive would ask both to Myotismon and in musing to himself, "Then why wouldn't Lucemon get rid of them?"

"Is it not obvious? As Demon Lords, both Barbamon and Daemon have their uses. Not even considering their own legions of loyal or brainless followers, they are some of the most intelligent Digimon to have ever existed. Both of them have created horrors beyond your imaginations, and Daemon particularly is old enough to remember when the Angels and Demons were once of one side against that one, before Lucemon fell. Knowledge like that is not knowledge one wants lost."

Everyone in the room had different questions from Myotismon's blurb, but Jordan in particular noted his avoidance of naming 'that one' and looked at Myotismon, speaking his mind, "Who could have had Angels and Demons working together?"

"Why, my dear Jordan, only a being who called themselves the God of Evil and the one who called Lucemon down in the first place. Their name has long been lost, but it is said they had an influence over creation itself even in the presence of the being who first made this world," Myotismon would then gesture behind him to the towering portrait towering behind him, one no one had spoke on because of the ominous feeling it gave, consisting of little more than a series of bands, "I myself commissioned a fellow Digimon to give his interpretation of their symbol. I quite enjoy learning of the history before I myself existed. Alas, I have heard that unlike many of the Royal Knights enemies, those who opposed them made sure to obliterate all they could so that they could not return."

Sif narrowed her eyes at Myotismon's sounding rather sad to never meet the creature, "If it was evil enough that even other evil Digimon didn't want it around, isn't that a sign it best be left to the past?"

"Perhaps, but what is history if not to be learned from? To leave things dead and buried would simply result in a continuous repeating of history... Much like we are in now."

Clive gave a simple one word response, "War?"

"War," Myotismon agreed, "Although battle is in the code of all Digimon, war is not quite the same. The mass butchery. The lack of elegance. The mindless brutality. Oftentimes, it is enough that more than a few Digimon simply... Cease to be."

"Impossible," Sif responded, "I watched over a village of Resurrection myself. No Digimon would fail to be rebo-"

"Ah, but you lack the full picture, my dear Renamon," Myotismon cut her off and leaned back, "I am more than certain you have heard of the Demon Lords innate ability, no?"

Sif would go silent and glare at the vampire as Jordan sat up, a sense of dread finding its way into him, "What ability?"

"Any Digimon a lord slays is irreversibly broken down and devoured by the Demon Lord in question. There is no cycle for them to return to. They are forever forgotten, only the impression of memory left in those they knew. A brutal fate, do you not agree? And it is said that perhaps this war, and perhaps every war ever had on this world, has been feeding them."

Clive in particular pondered that question. He was lacking the information, but theoretically, wouldn't the seals that had once bound the Demon Lords prevent that? Perhaps what Myotismon said was what allowed them to escape as often as they had? Or perhaps... Were there other entities with similar abilities?

Jordan in particular felt his twinges of fear grow again. That the possibility of losing Luna forever was present, that the threat facing his friends elsewhere could result in his few memories of them being all that was left. It was a sudden, towering shadow over his mind, but...

"It is purely hypothetical I assure you," Myotismon continued, "Although their ability to devour is much more real."

"... And what of those like you and your pets?" Black would add in rather spitefully.

"We may drink of others as any Snimon chooses to devour a lesser insect or as a Birdramon chooses to consume a Togemon. It may kill, but it does not remove"

Something about what he said did not feel like the total truth to anyone in the room.

Jordan in particular however felt another question come over him about the Demon Lords. A desire to know more of them individually besides the monsters that were Daemon and Barbamon. What was it that was now binding the others together?

But as he opened his mouth to speak, he was drowned out by the sound of a clock, and Myotismon sighed deeply, "And so it is, that all pleasant things must end I suppose."

His words immediately caused Sif to grip the table and Black to reach for her spear as he raised a hand, "I am a Digimon of elegance. Relax. I would not have you butchered like animals at my table... Despite Barbamon's command."

The party froze at his words, the realization hitting at not only had they walked into the mansion of an ally of the Demon lords, but that he was a minion of the very one pursuing them!

"... You work for that monsters, yet...?" Sif voiced her hesitance to believe the vampire.

"Assigned to him," Myotismon corrected, "Milord Lucemon answered his request for a replacement for one he certainly disposed of, and I was the unfortunate one to receive that duty."

Myotismon would stand from his spot at the table, his cape magically placing itself upon his shoulders as he gently placed the mask upon his face, to which the observational could see strands of data binding it to him. Indicating it as part of his very form and that it had always been there, another part f his illusion, "I ask you that follow me. So that at least, you may all fight to the end with dignity."

They all knew they didn't have a choice, and begrudgingly stood to follow the vampire.

But in his head, Clive was already working a strategy as he made a signal to Black, the PawnChessmon nodding in an agreement the rest of them didn't know of.

Victor and Sif moved close together, the Renamon taking his hand in her paw and gripping, Victor's presence acting as a temper to the rage she was feeling. The indignity that it had all gone wrong this easily.

But for Jordan and Luna, as Jordan picked his partner up and looked in her eyes. He felt his emotions snap as he thought of the rush of past days. The helplnessness. The failure to defend others. Where the authority of the Royal Knights and Demon Lords was tearing apart Digimon on both sides. He was sick of how things had been going. Sick of the plans going wrong. Sick of the losing fights. Sick of the ambushes and pursuit. Sick of... Himself.

But as his thoughts settled on his memory of first arriving in the Digital World, of facing fear and saving Cecilia with Luna. His heart began to steel again, whatever spell this place had on him faltering just enough for Jordan to steel his resolve and acknowledge what his goal was.

And in that, as he looked in his partners eyes, he knew that all he wanted right now was for them to have the strength to save them and the bravery to stand up against those that would force them down...

Jordan's digivice flickered, unseen by all in the room as they began to vacate...

…...

Ajatarmon narrowed his eyes at his new opponent. He had to act fast; he had lost the element of surprise. The plant Ultimate unleashed a slew of strikes at his opponent, attempting to use the flexibility of his limbs to attack from the sides and front in an unpredictable flurry, but with his real goal being to strike past him at his true targets. However, the Captain of the Hagith Legion moved with skill beyond what the assassin expected, parrying every single blow, both meant to sneak past and strike at the vulnerable three and at himself.

Growling, Ajatarmon would yell out, "Tied-up Ivy!"

His 'hair' would outstretch, bursting past Karatenmon in an instant before the crow warrior could react, only...

In one move, Karatenmon threw one of his blades behind him to cut a tendril behind the trio watching, the vine that Ajatarmon had willed into the ground retracting to his head. Ajatarmon didn't know how he possibly knew exactly where that plant vine was, yet he moved in, attempting to strike his opponent with his attention away as his two remaining vines attempting to close in around their prey. Yet, Karatenmon parried again with his blade. Slicing apart the right side vine and using his free talon to grab the left side vine, then pulling the ultimate in so he could knee the assassin in the gut, disrupting the flow of action as Ajatarmon's hatchet went ever so slightly to the left of Karatenmon's head. Just barely missing a lethal blow.

Ajatarmon reeled from the blow to his abdomen before losing his balance, falling on both his legs. Less than half a second later, he felt a blade threatening to pierce through his neck. He looked up, seeing the crow Digimon standing on top of him without a feather ruffled.

"Every move I made... H-How?" The assassin gasped before his eyes widened as he began to recognize his mistake now that the rush had ended, "W-Wait? A Karatenmon? Th-That means you were—?!"

"Reading your mind," The swordsman finished, "Allow me to introduce myself proper: I am Captain Karatenmon of the Hagith Legion, head of security, and personal bodyguard to Generals Arshan and Coro. I am in charge of protecting the Hagith Legion from spies and assassins."

"Hey, Shoucutemon!? Tell me you fixed that guy..." Everyone but Karatenmon turned to see Witchmon, Wizardmon, and a few other digimon carrying the other unconscious Shurimon, walk in with confused looks.

"Wizardmon, Witchmon," Karatenmon began, "Please confine our guests."

With a mutter of a few words, Ajatarmon and his allies would find themselves confined in a massive blue bubble, being sustained by the two users of magic.

The two Shurimon and Ajatarmon attempted their best in their defeated states, but they could not even budge the blue bubble surrounding them.

Would it even have mattered with Karatenmon watching them and their cover blown?

Wizardmon turned to Arshan, "This cage will hold them. Ajatarmon shouldn't be able to attempt contact with any others either through nearby flora, if there are any."

"Who are they? What were they here for?" The human asked.

"I read the Ajatarmon's mind," Everyone turned to the black ultimate. Karatenmon quickly described Ajatarmon's determination to slay Arshan, Coro, and ShouCutemon and the plant Digimons thoughts of those who had not yet managed to flee from the march of the Hagith Legion.

"What!? Assassination!? First that dirty move from Dynasmon, now this!?" Coro huffed in anger before Arshan petted the Coronamon.

"It's not a bad move. I'd do it too if I were in their shoes," Arshan admitted aloud, "War comes with all tactics, even the dirty ones."

Coro pouted and folded his arms as Wizardmon spoke up. "General Arshan is right, but what do we do now?"

Everyone turned back to Arshan, as he was left in charge. The teen winced for a second before he calmed down and started to think, "They're doing this because they haven't finished evacuations, right?"

…...

Boris and Pomumon took several steps back as Daemon aimed his hand and completely obliterated the mountain in the front of them. The pair both closed their eyes as the Demon Lord repeated the action again and again, creating a steadily deeper crater in a fit of absolute rage.

"WHO!? WHO GOT HERE BEFORE ME?! WHO FOUND ARCADIAMON BEFORE ME!?" The Demon Lord of Wrath howled to the heavens in vengeance. His rage going beyond the edges of the newly formed crater to seek out any target unfortunate enough to even be nearby.

Boris was still unsure of whose prison it was they had found in the mountain, but the method of it being opened had been announced by his 'master'.

Arcadiamon had been here, and it was it that had opened the prison. Meaning that someone else was currently employing it...

And Daemon was quick to unleash his rage at this fact as the data of unseen digimon flowed into his body, devoured and forgotten by the world. Unnamed, worthless deaths. Caused merely because of Daemon's petty wrath.

Boris regretted those losses, even as he had not met them. That they were victims of Daemon's monstrous attitude only fueled the contempt he had for the Demon Lord.

It felt like an hour before Daemon finally took a breath to calm himself enough to not continue eviscerating the landscape around them before he turned and looked to Boris and Pomumon, "And you two have simply stood there this entire time? What if they were still around?"

"I... Apologies, Lord Daemon," Boris attempted to calm his rage, "But... What if you had destroyed them in-"

The next moment was an immeasurable amount of pain for Boris as Daemon was suddenly in front of him and 'gently' hit him.

Boris dropped to the ground, doing everything to hold in his screams as his arm roared out in pain. The wound was not obvious, but it was clear that it had shattered in place, his fingers in his left hand no longer responding.

Pomumon screamed at Daemon in a rage, body trying to glow with an unseen digivolution, only for Daemon to merely punt the fruit Digimon as he spoke to Boris, "I did not ask to hear your grating voice, human. I know your cowardice between you and your partner let you do more than stand still. If only you would let the rage I see in your soul out, even a little bit to be guided. Then perhaps, you would actually be a little useful in this moment beyond simply being an object of my rage."

Boris seethed, both as his arm screamed, as tears pricked the edges of his eyes, as his felt his hatred of Daemon continue to grow.

But this was the only way he knew this could be handled. To let this happen.

What would Daemon do to the others if he rebelled? To Milana? To Pomumon? To Mary or Arshan?

He cared deeply for his fellow man, and he would do his best to prevent any violence towards them.

Of his regrets, his biggest one right now was that he ever tried to extend a hand of friendship to Daemon.

Daemon would pull him up onto his feet, the forced movement threatening to cause Boris to vomit from the sheer amount of pain he was feeling.

"If I cannot force you and Pomumon to act functional around me or my generals," Daemon growled, "Then perhaps you will enjoy being solo for a time. Maybe a scouting role will make you at least slightly functional."

A blue flame emerged on Daemon's index finger, "You will find the one who has taken my prize, and if you cannot defeat him, then you will tell me exactly who it is so that I can retrieve Arcadiamon myself."

Daemon would stick his burning finger onto Boris' neck, a searing pain filling the young man's body as foul magicks bound themselves to Boris. He felt immeasurable pain as his arm was forced to heal yet he was further branded as Daemon's property.

"Maybe with this, you and your worthless partner will actually accomplish something of note like Beelzemon's brat or Lucemon's pet."

Boris fell to his knees as Daemon took a step back, "You have one month, Boris. Bring me the information I desire or that mark goes off and kills both you and Pomumon. Just as it would any other late scout."

He turned away from Boris, uncaring as the human took deep breaths to try and recover some sense of self from how numb his body felt after such a wave of pain, "I do hope you succeed. It would truly be awful to have to replace you and take the risk of an even more useless human."

And then in a burst, Daemon was in the air, leaving Boris to seethe and recover on the ground as Pomumon stumbled his way back to his partner.

Both of them silently stared where Daemon had gone, both filled with a dark anger. But both also knew, they now had no choice but to do as Daemon wanted. One may have swore that Pomumon was absolutely glowing with a dark energy, but on a second glance, it appeared to be nothing...

In reality however, as he flew away, Daemon mumbled to himself about his deception in a manner as though to convince himself that things would go his way as he glared unto the horizon, "The fool is true to his nature. My bluff will be met satisfactorily... Even should they die to my projects kidnapper, Arcadiamon's location will be mine..."

…..

Grademon and Mastertryannomon were not expecting their assassins to survive the suicide mission, let alone come back in one piece. Less still when they heard that they failed spectacularly, and the officers of the Hagith Legion sent them back with a message.

"They're willing to wait for us to evacuate?" Grademon could not believe his ears.

"The human let us go and is allowing us to finish evacuation, even allowing us to regroup with our other forces," One of the Shurimon said.

"Well," MasterTyrannomon blinked, "Not what I expected. But this ensures our survival."

"Wait," Everyone turned to Grademon, "I have a message to send back."

…..

A mere few hours later, a young general raised his brow in confusion.

"They still want to fight?" Arshan was understandably confused considering their assassination attempt meant that they knew they would lose from the start.

….

In those hours before, two friends threw words like punches at each other.

"What are you thinking!?" MasterTyrannomon roared at his co-commander, "We have a way out without losing a single life! Why are you so adamant about fighting them!?"

Grademon met his companion's glare with one of his own, "And explain what to our allies? The moment our enemies offered the easy way out, we took it? Everyone already looks down on us for manning this important area because neither of us were megas. Not fighting would prove them right! It would destroy the troops back home already fragile morale!"

"Who cares about that!? We'll be alive to prove it wrong another day! Don't let your pride blind you from doing the right thing!"

"There's a difference between pride and honor! We swore an oath to protect the Digital World from all evils, especially the Demon Lords! What kind of example would we set to our comrades and Lords if we ran away when things got too hard? Who would rally behind the Royal Knights if they heard the story of us taking the offer so desperately?"

"We were given orders to retreat if necessary! There's no shame in that! How is it that you're the stubborn one between the two of us!?"

The two continued to argue. However, it didn't take too long before the duo went out to meet the rest of their men.

Grademon inhaled as he braced for the future...

….

And Arshan finished what the message meant, "Grademon has challenged us with less than half of their already small force," The Hagith Legion tactician told the present Captains of the situation, "He's moving out whatever remains of those stationed farther away from those evacuating."

"Hey, Arshan?" They all turned to Coro, "How many of them are there?"

"Probably a little over a hundred," Arshan noticed Coro folding his arms, "What are you thinking?"

Coro slid off the seat before walking up to his partner, "They choose to fight for something they believe in, right? And we want to minimize our casualties for the upcoming fights, right?"

Arshan understood where this was going. Yet, he asked, "Are you sure about this? They'll outnumber you."

"Arshan," Coro's eyes flashed once, "They deserve the highest honor for their choice."

….

Grademon closed his eyes in deep contemplation. His hands rested on his blade handles.

"Grademon, sir!" A Knightmon ran up to him, "We've seen the Hagith Legion! They're heading towards us!"

"I see," The Ultimate drew his blades, "How many are on their way here?"

"T-That's the thing, sir: we only see two."

"What?" Grademon noticed the sun shining brighter than before. He used his heightened senses and looked forward.

It was a Mega—that much he was sure by the size alone. Or, at the very least, the size of this Mega matched the size of the his lord Crusadermon. Odd, he didn't recall reports on a firey Mega.

As the Hagith Legion mega came closer, Grademon spotted the second figure to the right side of the mega: the human. His mind clicked. This was a Demon Lord Chosen and his partner.

"Royal Knights!" A loud voice akin to a roar boomed, "I am Coro of the Hagith Legion!"

Coro glanced down at his friend and walked forward, "Those strong of resolve, come and face me!"

The sun shined brighter as Coro's mane started to glow.

Some Tyrannomons roared as they charged for the mega. Yet, Coro moved faster than even most Knightmons could expect, appearing in front of the first red dinosaur with his fist reclined and shining with condensed light.

"Phoebus Blow!"

The mega slammed the attack on the ground, creating a massive pillar of flames that surpassed the height of the trees surrounding the area.

The attack died down, and Coro strode out of the black stain that was once an empty clearing.

Grademon started to sweat. He destroyed a dozen champions in one blow! It took the ultimate a second to see his hands shaking, yet he gripped his hands around the handle of his blade. Now was not the time to faulter.

He pointed forward, "Charge!"

Coro saw the incoming Digimon coming his way. He inhaled, slid his feet into a fighting stance, and gathered flames into his palms.

"Arrow of Apollo!" Coro unleashed a flurry of punches, each unleashing arrows of flames that eviscerated the charging Digimon, unable to react even as they saw it coming by sheer virtue of how fast Coro's arrows were.

Grademon was the only one who moved faster than the attacks—and the only one to reach Coro as he brought up his blade and aimed for the face of the general—only for Coro to block the stab with the back of his hand.

If Grademon wasn't already sweating from the surrounding high temperatures, he would have from the overwhelming power of his enemy. It was like facing one of the Royal Knights themselves! Grademon circled Coro, using his amazing speed to his advantage. However, every strike he made was parried and blocked, revealing that his opponent seemed rather experienced in fighting those faster than him.

If that wasn't enough, each strike weakened his blades. He could tell they were starting to liquefy as if he was hitting magma! In fact, he could feel his armor starting to melt even though he never got hit!

Grademon slid some distance away from Coro. As he gasped for air, he readied his blades. "... You... Coro... was it? You fight so well; I'd say you may rival even the former Apollomon of the Olympos Twelve."

Grademon raised his brow when Coro suddenly held his head as if getting a migraine, "You fight well too!" He said after the moment passed. Yet his expression became calm, "Are you sure you don't want to leave and fight again when you're stronger? We offered you to leave peacefully, and that offer still stands."

"I sense the truth to your words," Grademon readied his blades, "However, do not underestimate the Royal Knights! We will not falter no matter how great our enemy is!"

As Grademon started his greatest attack, Coro couldn't help but frown, "You showed more honor than your masters." His mind thought back to Dynamon's cheap shot before his eyes snapped open with increasing light. "I recognize your resolve! I will face you with everything I am!"

It was then that Grademon noticed the sun above the Digimon's mantle expanding to ten times its size within a few seconds. Grademon crossed his blades and bolted forward with all his speed.

He closed his eyes. Knowing what fate had in store for him, one last thought entering his mind, 'In another life, my friend...'

"Cross Blade!"

"Sol Blaster!"

…..

MasterTyrannomon stilled as he felt the giant explosion behind him. Even far away, he and everyone else could feel the heat searing their skin. As the others worked to move and protect civilians, the dino ultimate did his best to turn to the blinding attack. Whatever pain he felt on his skin and eyes paled to the one in his heart.

"You idiot..." He snarled as he poorly held back his tears. Yet, he held his head up high. They had done their jobs: protect both the civilians and the soul of the Royal Knights.

But was it really worth it...?

….

Coro had devolved back to Coronamon when he was sure there were no more enemies. He heard coughing and turned over to Arshan. "You okay?"

"Y-Yeah? It might be the smoke getting to me," Arshan calmed down as he used his hand to wave the air around him, "How about you? I heard Grademon calling you Apollomon. I know you get headaches whenever you hear about the Olympos Twelve."

"Yeah..." Coro scratched his head, feeling a lingering sting in the area, "It's always weird, ya know? BZ and Milana both said that I'mthat Apollomon ever since I reached the level, but I can't remember anything before meeting you."

"Well, they did say you died," Arshan held his hand; he didn't like the thought of Coro dying even if he already had before, "And they tried to break your cycle originally. Your amnesia might be a side effect of Milana's attempt to permanently kill you." The teen frowned at the thought of someone he looked up to killing his friend, but it was different before he came in.

The fire rookie had a different thought process, "I guess that means I'll get a rematch with Spline!"

Coro pulled a fist up,"This time, we'll win for sure!"

Arshan narrowed his eyes at his partner. Coro wanted to spend his insanely lucky second chance at life fighting the two that killed him the first time? "Please, no. We don't stand a chance against those two."

As he finished speaking however, the brunette found himself coughing again. Not only that, he was starting to feel nauseous and dizzy.

Coro's form softened when he saw his best friend coughing, "Okay, come on. We gotta get you to ShouCutemon."

As the two made their way back to camp, neither noticed Arshan's Digivice showing a screen of pure static whenever the boy coughed.

…..

The mansion-locked party looked around as Myotismon guided them into a large courtyard, a bright red moon shining overhead despite the fact it had been day only perhaps three hours ago.

"Originally, I had intended Matadormon to fight you and slay you, but I will admit. I have come to like the lot of you... Enough so that I will grant you the honor of a battle and death at my hands," Myotismon stated, "Far more than Barbamon would ever offer..."

The vampire strode to the far edge of the courtyard before turning to face the group as they all could make out the bladed hounds and shadow in the dark corners.

It was clear what he desired of them, and they knew that to have any hope, they had to go all out against this foe.

Victor raised his digivice first as it glowed, Sif's form breaking down into wireframe before reassembling itself into Taomon.

Black raised her spear as Clive raised his digivice, her form growing in size as she took on the form of Black RookChessmon, taking up much of the courtyard on her own.

Lastly was Luna, who Jordan raised his digivice for her to quickly digivolve into Lekismon.

"Renamon digivolved to... Taomon!"

"Black PawnChessmon digivolved to... Black RookChessmon!"

"Lunamon digivolved to... Lekismon!"

Myotismon smiled, but it was not in a manner that was friendly or even mocking...

It felt almost like pity. As though he knew something they did not.

"Well...? Come on then," Myotismon invited the party to attack first, "Behold the tragedy that unfolds in the halls of Hell, and rejoice! For you all are its stars!"

"Is he treating this like a show...?" Victor asked Clive as their partners took their stances to start the fight.

"No..." Clive responded, "I think its part of his strategy. He wants to off-put us with an exaggerated character... Yet, I feel like we actually have a chance against him."

Jordan, hearing them talk, mustered the courage to involve himself, "What do you need us to do?"

Seeing Jordan take initiative, Clive smirked, "As a team, under yours truly of course, I think we can do this."

Taking a few minutes, Myotismon politely waited for them, until at last Clive announced, "Behold, Myotismon! For you have underestimated the Great Clive and his friends! This tragedy will not be ours, but yours!"

The vampire's smile changed a bit, indeed, he did seem amused by Clive's retort as waved for them to attack, "Then let us begin the final act of this night!"

The opposing trio were quick to take position as Luna began to climb up Black's backside, the fortress Digimon taking several steps forward as Sif dashed to the right to approach Myotismon's side.

Myotismon's eyes looked them all over, taking note as Black aimed her arms at him and announced, "Rook Gatling!"

A hail of bullets fired upon Myotismon, who used an arm to glamorously swing his cape aside as he announced, "Night Raid!"

In a brutal counter, a massive swarm of bats emerged from nowhere, and quickly sacrificed themselves against the barrage in bursts of red digicode as Myotismon himself dodged left to avoid Sif's first set of tailsmans, the vampire bursting into a swarm of bats that quickly scattered away and flew towards Black, only for Luna to emerge from her shoulder.

"Tear arrow!"

The Lekismon unleashed her own bombardment of attacks on the transformed Myotismon as he escaped Black's barrage, only for him to reform and begin his climb up the RookBlackchessmon. Displaying a blatant defying of physics as he simply ran around to the other side of her arm, running upside down as a whip of pure red energy emerged in his hand, "Crimson Lightning!"

He did not aim for the stone on Black's body, instead waiting till he passed by her metallic joints, striking with painful precision as Black howled with pain before trying to get the much smaller Digimon off of her, only to find her massive body was at a disadvantage with a foe this nimble, "You've got to be kidding me!"

Luna, wanting to save her friend any pain, moved forward, watching as Sif moved in from below.

Sif, producing a massive brush, spun as she moved, the symbol of Yin and Ying emerging below her as she roared out, "Tailsman spell: On!"

She would wave her free hand, the symbol moving directly into Myotismon's path, the vampire failing to stop himself and yelling as holy power began to electrocute his unnatural being, only for Luna to leap off the side of Black's arm, "Moon Night Bomb!"

In immense pain, it was all Myotismon could do to simply detach himself and fall to dodge Luna's attempt to put him to slumber, only for Black to move forward and smash Myotismon along the floor, "Stronghold!"

Myotismon however would stand, apparently not even scratched by the barrage as he dusted himself off, "Hm, perhaps you lot do have more potential than I thought."

"What's that supposed to mean!?" Black would yell as she attempted to charge and mow down Myotismon again, only for the vampire to return to being bats once more and dodging yet again, only for Sif to close in an slam several tailsmans into the swarm.

Myotismon reformed as he fell to the ground but this time landed on his feet, only to roar out as the yin-yang symbol reappeared beneath his feet, "Perhaps!... I underestimated you lot..! And so...! Matadormon!"

From the dark, the bladed shadow burst forth and into the air with a roar, "Earth-shattering stomp!"

Black reacted without hesitation as she blocked the blow with her own body, massive locks settling into place to make her into an impenetrable fortress, "Castle wall!"

The intruding digimon was revealed by the moonlight. Indeed as his shadow had indicated, he had more than a few blades emerging from his brightly covered body. Although a plume of orange hair burst from it, his head consisted of a pair of triangular blades, a strange visor in between them. Two pairs of wings burst from his notably narrow torso, the top red and bottom orange. His arms were as long as his body, covered in bright red sleeves before five massive blades emerged from the end of each sleeves. Green frills flowed around his waist before leading to black and red bag pants that cuffed at the ankles, another pair of blades bound to his feet by straps.

Matadormon growled at Black, "And how am I supposed to drink the data of a walking statue, General?!"

"General?!" Clive's eyes widened as he looked at Myotismon, surely he wasn't...

No, perhaps it was simply that Barbamon didn't have all megas as generals. Perhaps...

He looked at Victor and Jordan, only to see they hadn't heard what Matadormon had announced.

He chose to keep it to himself, if only to try and not panic them. No. If the worst case was true, then this wasn't a fight to win. He needed to re-evaluate...

Black aimed her free arm at the still airborne Matadormon, "Maybe next time, aim for the right one! Rook gatling!"

Matadormon growled, "Thousand arrow!"

With a swing of each arm, countless blades burst from its sleeves, slicing apart the bullets or intercepting them with insane precision as he fell to the ground before bursting forward towards Luna's back.

Sif, still moving her symbol to intercept Myotismon with Luna's help was first to notice, instead changing the trajectory to intercept the bladed Digimon, who dodged away from it and Black as she stomped where she thought he was going to move.

Myotismon eagerly took advantage of this, suddenly appearing in front of Luna and grabbing her arm as her eyes widened and Myotismon leaned in before muttering, "Nightmare Wave."

His eyes stared deep into hers as before her eyes slowly shut, hypnotized into a deep slumber before he let go and leapt back, Black having unleashed another barrage of bullets at the vampire, with him and Matardormon moving together as Sif quickly moved in to grab Luna and moved next to Black.

"And so it was the Baron and his loyal servant faced against the Knight and Priest," Myotismon stated as though reading a script, "On dark horizons, on boiling seas. Savage nobles against cultured thieves!"

"I'm getting real sick of this guy..." Black muttered as she aimed again.

Sif would use her tailsman to wake Luna, the Lekismon's eyes fluttering open as Sif responded, "Then you understand how we all feel about your and Clive's boasting."

"That's a tad different isn't it?!" Black's arms unleashed another barrage at the enemy duo, Myotismon and Matadormon splitting between different sides to seemingly close in on Sif and Luna.

Sif, seeing this incoming, took Luna and suddenly threw her up into the sky, with Myotismon's eyes widening in shock at the sudden move. One that anyone would swear would be suicidal as Luna aimed true at Myotismon...

"Moon Night Kick!"

Like a rocket, Luna launched at the vampire digimon, Myotismon only having mere moments to brace against the champion before Sif was suddenly upon him with her brush, "Brush Stroke: Ippitsu!"

Symbols meant to purge evil found their way onto Myotismon's body, the vampire letting out a roar of pain as he at last began to take clear damage from their attacks.

Matardormon attempted to intercept the attack on his master, only for Black to move in and block him with her size, "Not so fast, it's still between you and me!"

Myotismon began to laugh as Sif and Luna put him on the defensive, only able to deflect their attacks using a move called Blood Punch, "I did indeed underestimate you lot! You work together better than I thought! It would seem that Barbamon has underestimated you all greatly indeed!"

The praise was enough to make Black's heart burst with pride as she listened to her foe, which was an unfortunate turn in her attitude as Matadormon took advantage of her distraction to begin climbing her. His bladed talons digging into the edges of her stonework, the RookChessmon unprepared as he leveled with her head and aimed for the center of her face, "Let this be evened! War-Dance of a Single Spin!"

With enough force to shatter an army, Matadormon unleashed a barrage of strike on Black's weakest spot, sending her reeling backward as Myotismon spoke again, "And so it is, I believe it is time to end this play. The tragedy must unfold regardless of ones own whims."

And so he spoke one word, "Pandemonium."

From seemingly nowhere, a massive beam of energy burst from Myotismon, sending Luna and Sif reeling as it slammed directly into Black. The temperature enough to turn her body bright red and begin outright melting her data as Matadormon leapt up into the air, the vampire's partner unleashing another barrage of blades directly into Black's molten form which caused her to scream in such a way that sent chills down the human partners spine...

But for Clive, the usage of that ability all but confirmed it as he saw something none of the others did. The flicker of the illusion.

With a groan, Black's body fell apart, the ultimate regressing back to her rookie stage as she painfully hit the ground.

Matadormon landed next to her, but did not finish her, instead focusing on Sif and Luna, "Two more to finish. Then I may taste human data for the first times in ages!"

"What...?"

All three humans heard Matadormon's words and felt chills go down their spines. A confirmation of what they were dealing with in the worst way.

Myotismon wiped his suit off, "Only after their demises. I do hope you remember the terms, Matadormon."

"I do and I am eager regardless," The bladed Digimon responded as he skulked towards Luna and Sif...

Jordan, seeing Black fall however looked at Luna and Luna at him.

But now, he had only one objective, and so it was now that he knew Luna had to bypass what had been holding him back! Courage was not the absence of fear, but the ability to face it! And that time was now!

"Luna! Now! Digivolve!"

Pulling out his digivice, Jordan narrowed his eyes as the screen glowed bright with a symbol that shined like the sun.

"Oho?" Myotismon, curious, would wave his hand out of curiosity for Matadormon to slow his assault as Luna's body began to glow bright.

Unlike her usual digivolution, Luna's body morphed with the light of the moon above instead of ridding itself of data. Her legs straightened, her head flattened and became more humanoid as baggy clothing began to appear in an extreme similarity to Sif. Shoulder guards, the baggy pants, and enlarged sleeves, the symbol of the moon becoming that of balance upon her chest as the hat of an onmyoujii appeared on her head alongside fox-like ears and a tail from her rear as color burst onto her form from the yin-yang.

"Lekismon digivolved to... Taomon!"

Standing side by side with Sif, the two Taomon instinctively prepared to purge the evils before them.

Clive and Victor's eyes both widened before looking to Jordan.

Clive was the first to ask, "When... When did you realize you could-?"

"I... I'm sick of sitting around feeling sorry, of running, and of being fearful," Jordan responded, "Maybe I don't know enough to be on either side, but... I want more than anything else, to help my friends. Luna, Cecilia, and you guys. Me and Luna. We'll do whatever we have to to protect those we care about regardless of how fearful we are of this! The Digital World deserves better!"

In silent acknowledgment, Luna nodded first to Jordan then looked to Sif, who realized immediately what the newly born Taomon was asking for...

Guidance.

In her mind, Sif knew they might be able to come out on top now.

Clive knew there wasn't a chance to win, but perhaps with two Taomon they could hold out...

The strategist acknowledged, for once, his strategy wasn't needed as he quietly began to drag his partner out of the line of fire, Black mumbling something about winning in her sleep...

It hurt him to be honest. That he wasn't the star for this, but he had to let it by.

He had to.

Victor smiled and crossed his arms, even as his heart thrummed against his ears from the stress, "Then I know we can win this now."

As one, Sif guided Luna in her movements, the duo both pulling their brushes and spinning to ward off the vampiric duo as together they produced a yin-yang, and spun it off at Matadormon, who tried to dive to the left, only for it to split into two and the second to envelop him as the first rebounded to try and get Myotismon.

"Impressive!" Myotismon yelled as he burst into the bat swarm to avoid the yin-yang and re-emerged near his servant, "Most impressive!"

Not giving him the pleasure of a response, the pair of Taomon both produced dozens of tailsmans and yelled out in unison, "Thousand Spell: Kofutastsu!"

Matadormon could do little more than roar in rage as he was bombarded, with Myotismon swinging his cape to produce a wave of energy to deflect them, "Nightmare Claw!"

To his surprise however, he would suddenly realize that Matadormon's symbol had moved beneath him instead, the tailsmans having missed him by just enough to go behind him as all at once...

Both Luna and Sif together would paint a massive sanskrit character into the very air, tailsmans and symbols resonating with it as they roared out, "Tailsman of Light!"

The symbol burst towards the stunned Matadormon and trapped Myotismon, an explosion of holy energy enveloping the duo as they could hear Myotismon's maniacal laughter and Matadormon scream. Light enveloping the arena and scaring off the creatures that had been hiding among the shadows as smoke filled where the two vampire Digimon had been standing.

"They did it!" Victor would yell out a declaration as Jordan brought his arms up with a smile at their victory.

Sif smiled and began to turn, also convinced of their victory only to notice Luna standing stock still, staring deep into the smoke, which caused her to immediately turn to face it as well...

Clive grit his teeth, holding Black as he stared at the outline of the massive figure in the clearing smoke. Victor and Jordan's eyes widening as they realized just how screwed they in fact were.

"I am impressed! I truly am! Lord Lucemon would have loved to have met the lot of you! The elegance of your teamwork is a work of art worth keeping! Alas, for this war to end, so must all of you!"

Eyes widening, both Sif and Luna moved back as one, roaring out together, "Tailsman spell! On!" as they drew the yin-yang as fast as they could. The hulking figure emerging from the smoke firing the same beam from earlier with a single word into the combined shield the two Taomon made.

"Pandemonium."

His mutated head made it clear who he was. Blonde hair frazzled and crazed, red mask having fused further with his face and grown larger and more exaggerated with a mosquito-like nose and larger wings. His eyes having become little more than yellow orbs of evil while the lower half of his face remained mostly human, his teeth had almost all become monstrous daggers, shown off by his grin. On his shoulders, two creatures settled themselves into their parasitic slots, opening every so often to show themselves alive with maws full of teeth and empty eyes watching all. The right bore red eyes while the left bore blue, a hunger echoing from both of them. His body otherwise seemed a mix of mechanical and flesh. His upper arms were thin, but connected to massive shield-like forearms ending in insectoid talons that threatened to crush anything in their grip. A monstrous, armor-clad and rat-like tail swayed behind him as he moved forward. His still humanish legs clad in heavy armor, a pair of black and white masks staring down his current victims as trypophobic flesh revealed itself behind his cod piece, which connected to a twisting torso and a purple breastplate clad with the red symbol of Myotismon. From his back emerged a thing that tried to emulate wings or a cape, with the same mask as on his legs in its center as it arched to both his left and right. That same trypophobic flesh grotesquely pulsating beneath his 'wings'.

"You have earned the right to see my true self before you all enter the next life," the hulking Digimon announced, easily standing taller than Dynasmon, "I am MaloMyotismon! Last Lord of the Vampires! Loyal Servant of Lucemon, and General of Barbamon's Araton Legion!"

Clive stared before looking at Sif and Luna, "How long can you two hold the shield!?"

The duo was already breathing heavily, Luna looking at Jordan with worried eyes as Sif glared their opponent down and responded, "I... I think maybe one more... He's a mega. That's... We don't..."

"Sif," Victor speak to his partner as he subtly brought a hand over his chest as his own breathing intensified, as though he himself had been fighting, "Don't panic. There is... A way for us to get out. I'm sure of it."

MaloMyotismon fired another beam, the two things living in his shoulder unleashing the beam that fused together to slam against the shield. The party could feel it beginning to weaken, threatening to buckle at any moment.

But it held, barely, as Sif began to sweat and Luna began to shake with exhaustion.

On his shoulders, MaloMyotismon's two parasites began to glow with the same energy again, only for him to suddenly stop as his smile faded into a frown, "It would seem we are to be interrupted."

The party all felt confusion come over them as their opponent did not simply finish them when a familiar voice spoke out, "So you do still have some honor since Magnamon last fought you, Baron!?"

"Indeed, Dynasmon!" MaloMyotismon announced in return, "Come for your charges have you!?"

In front of the group, Dynasmon would land, of which Luna promptly proceeded to sit down and regress to a Lunamon, breaking the shield as Dynasmon turned his head slightly and spoke to them, "You all did well. Rest now, and allow me to finish this fight for you."

MaloMyotismon watched before sighing, "I must admit, the idea of fighting a Royal Knight within the bounds of my own home does not excite me."

"Does it not now?" Dynasmon responded disdainfully and spitefully, "And here I thought you were eager for an ending act."

"Barbamon requested I finish those who fell into his trap, not that I battle you personally," MaloMyotismon responded, "That is the extent of my duties. Especially where my own home is concerned. It is the difference between hunting prey and battling a foe."

"He... He saw us only as prey this whole time?" Sif seemed rather horrified by the revelation as Victor's face hardened.

"It's only expected of a vampire," Clive responded, "But at the least, your combined explosion brought forth Dynasmon."

"Only... As prey?" Jordan too felt a sense of horror in his heart as Luna struggled to stand back up, moving in front of her partner protectively. But he stood strong regardless, staring down the hulking vampire past their protector.

It was clear that Luna too was horrified by MaloMyotismon's statement as she stood in front of her partner.

"I take it that's how you see Barbamon's human as well then?" Dynasmon asked.

"It is complicated," MaloMyotismon responded, "But if I had not been for her endearing outfit, I imagine her fate would have been quite different from pursuing you lot."

"Monstrosity," Dynasmon responded, "Begone before I decide your home will be but smoldering ash."

MaloMyotismon narrowed his eyes at the Royal Knight before conceding, "So be it. I value my things far more than his orders. Take them, and begone, Wyvern Knight."

Not turning his back to the mega, Dynasmon slowly moved backwards, commanding the group with a wave of his hand to come to him. It was a silent exchange, Dynasmon not hesitating to grab the humans and Black as Luna and Sif painfully climbed up to his shoulders. Their current size making it more optimal to ride his shoulders as his wings spread wide and he took to the foggy sky.

MaloMyotismon watched as they fled before stating, "From the borders, chaos shall bleed. The mark of man shall cause woe to many. A thousand lives to be lost. And in the end, so shall we be changed forever. I do hope you continue to grow stronger, Chosen. I am quite looking forward to our next fight, as equals rather than as they intended."

His form slowly and grossly collapsed on itself, the form of Myotismon taking charge once more as he looked at where his servant had been obliterated, "I apologize, Matadormon, for underestimating them. But your sacrifice will be worth it in the end. That I do promise..."

…...

Ryu's eyes widened as he looked at the expanse before him.

The entire mountain had to have been hollowed out. It must have been as he looked up at the absolutely massive blue crystal at the very peak of the cavern, casting light down below like its own miniature sun. A ruined city sat down in here, made of little more than stone, tall grass, and moss. Stairs and ladders covered it, allowing all residents to traverse its many floors. But more than anything, Ryu could see all sorts of Digimon working together in unison to erect guard posts, homes in the ruins, and places of cooperation such as kitchens or beds.

He casually walked through it all, watching a red t-rex aid a much smaller cat-like digimon in getting its toy down from a high perch.

He watched as a green goblin digimon discussed building a new tower near a newly made tunnel, of which apparently there were feral digimon down here still as he listened.

But what he wanted was a Digimon aligned with the Demon Lords, someone to get a viewpoint not there own from. His eyes scanned the crowds, looking for someone who stood out as not being neutral or Royal Knight aligned.

It was harder than it already was, being as varied as Digimon were. It was basically impossible to tell who was aligned with who, and he didn't just want to walk up to and ask rudely...

"Ryu, the hell are you doing?"

As focused as he was, he jumped and turned, Tiamat raising an eyebrow at him, "I was hoping maybe to get a different view."

"... If you just wanted a different view, why aren't you climbing the ladders?"

Ryu snorted before saying, "I mean that BanchoLeomon said there's Demon Lord Digimon taking refuge here with the others. I wanted to hear what they have to say."

"Oh," Tiamat's eyes widened a bit as she tilted her head a bit in concern, "I uh... Okay. If you're wanting to. I guess we can go talk to the runt I just beat up for talking about us."

"Wait... What?"

"What? He was talking shit, so I made him back up his talk."

"Jeez, Tiamat. That's... Not how I would handle that," Ryu sighed at his partners aggressive nature.

She shrugged, "Come on."

The black Guilmon led Ryu down a series of steps and halls, where Ryu could slowly hear the sound of bawling.

"I-I want Atama back! Those... Those stupid knights took her! I... I..."

Ryu winced a bit, realizing this was probably the individual Tiamat had beat up as they walked around the corner to see a digimon maybe the size of Tiamat's leg. He resembled a red dinosaur superfically, but otherwise was quite deformed with an enlarged head resembly a cracked egg, two exaggerated blue eyes, a small chubby body, a monky-like tail, and two fingered hands and feet that ended in white nubs.

Ryu walked up to him and crouched down, "Hey there. I wanted to apologize."

The small red digimon had been crying its eyes out, and clearly reacted in fear when he saw Tiamat again. Who crossed her arms and looked away in annoyance.

"What's your name, kid?" Ryu would ask as the small digimon moved so that Tiamat wasn't in his line of sight.

"M-Minidekachimon... W-why are you the one apologizing?"

"Because I'm usually the one who keeps her from punching people."

"Are not!" Tiamat would yell out.

"Are too," He smugly responded before looking the red dinosaur in the eyes.

"Kind of like me... and Atamadekachimon..."

Ryu would sit down, "About that. I was hoping that maybe, I could get your viewpoint on something."

"H-hm?"

"You're Demon Lord aligned, right?"

"I-I mean... Yeah? Lord Beelzemon took us in." The digimon tried to wipe his tears to little effect, trying to appear a little stronger in the face of that question.

"I wanted to ask, why? What made you join them?"

"I mean..." The small digimon seemed taken aback that anyone aligned with the Royal Knights would ask in a manner that seemed to seek understanding, "It was cause of the Hagith Legion we were saved from just starving. They came to our village, but instead of conquest, Kazuchimon brought us food with his men. Why wouldn't we help our saviors when the Royal Knights never responded for almost a year?"

"Almost a year with no response...?"

Minidekachimon nodded, "We begged for anything, and they never sent one thing. Why would we support those that don;t want to help us?"

It was simple, but it made sense in Ryu's head. But at the same time, he had a gut feeling it was more complicated than that. Even back in the human world, a government couldn't just keep helping everyone all the time. Maybe it had to do with their location. Or perhaps someone did something dumb near the village that caused the knights to label it a dead zone. Could be any number of things...

But either way, that simple act of kindness from the Demon Lords earned them the start of loyalty, "And did you fight for them?"

"Only because they asked," the tiny dinosaur responded, "Because Atama wanted to. To repay them... And even then, the brotherhood they showed us. It was more than we could ever ask for..."

Ryu watched the warmth of good memories enveloped the Digimon for a brief moment...

He had a good idea of what happened to Atamadekachimon based on their lack of presence and the mention of the Royal Knights before hand.

Overall, it was a pot as simple as could be. A perfect mix to make someone ally with a new and grand thing over the old.

Brotherhood. Friendship. Camaraderie.

It was a better thing to fight for then greed and glory. As simple as it was.

He appreciated simple. It made things clearer for someone as relaxed as him.

"Thanks," Ryu responded as he stood up, "I hope things turn out well for you."

The tiny Digimon nodded, now calmed by Ryu simply talking to him, "Thank you..."

Ryu nodded in return before turning to leave Tiamat raising a brow and following, "Why bother knowing what you already figured?"

"Just to confirm I guess," Ryu responded, "To know that what we do is worth fighting for. Just like what they're fighting for is worth it."

He put his hands behind his head as they walked onward, "Let's go find a place to just relax. All this talk of war and factions wears me out faster than our hundred mile hike did."

Tiamat frowned but shrugged, "Fair enough, Ryu."

"Besides, from what Gallantmon and BanchoLeomon were saying. We won't have too much longer to rest anyways."

Tiamat looked right at Ryu, eyes wide as she went, "Oh. You better be fu-"

…...

Authors note

I tried something different with Taomon. I wasn't really satisfied with how her moves were translated nor did I just want to use the Japanese names without reason. I feel like combining the two gives them some real impact.

Nothing else much to say this time other than I'm really happy to see some of ya'll are still around. I will also that don't worry Singoffan, Alizee is gonna get some time to shine next chapter. She isn't getting off easy.

Again, hopefully FFN doesn't screw up the formatting. I've found out apparently alerts don't work anymore, so for those of you who sent OCs, send me a DM if you're still around. I'll send you personal DMs to alert you when I update, at least till FFN fixes this... If it fixes it.