Chapter 28: Necessary Preparations
Mercurymon still couldn't fully grasp Sirenmon's presence in the Palace of Mirrors. There she was, the daughter of Ceresmon and Neptunemon, sitting with an inherent dignity that seemed to frame her in the splendid surroundings. The meeting room, nearly empty in the absence of the rest of the Olympians, was dominated by a palpable atmosphere of tension. Mercurymon's surprise and amazement were evident in his expression; astonishment mixed with the discomfort of Sirenmon, who seemed aware of the disturbance her mere presence caused. Meanwhile, Venusmon, pleased with the surprise, couldn't help but feel a mix of triumph and disdain toward the unexpected turn of events.
The palace, with its high ceilings and vast mirrors, reflected the sunset's light in a glow that accentuated the majesty of the place. The reflections of the delicate golden moldings and intricate architectural details shone brightly, creating an atmosphere that seemed as unchanging as time itself. Venusmon, sitting beside Sirenmon, had carefully prepared the scene with meticulous attention to detail. She had cleaned Sirenmon's red cap and polished her musical ornament, ensuring that her rescued companion was not only healthy but also presentable for the occasion.
Sirenmon, with her arms crossed and a reserved attitude, listened attentively to Venusmon's monologue. The Olympian was immersed in a concise narrative about the expedition and her personal achievements, centering her speech on her own feats. Despite her clear efforts to self-praise, the speech didn't seem to impress Mercurymon, who was more focused on scrutinizing Sirenmon's details with renewed interest. His gaze settled on the red cap, previously covered in dust and now spotless. Then, his eyes moved to the musical ornament, which had been polished to a shine.
"The important thing is what will become of you now," Mercurymon interrupted, addressing Venusmon as he emerged from his trance of observation. His voice had a practical tone, marking a contrast with the celebratory air that seemed to envelop Venusmon.
"Although Venusmon can offer you all kinds of comforts on her island, I suppose it's better for you to stay here. You'll feel safer," Mercurymon added with a determination that left no room for doubt.
Venusmon frowned, visibly displeased. Mercurymon's suggestion clashed with her own plans. She had invested effort and resources to bring Sirenmon back, and now, it seemed the chance to enjoy the company she had longed for was slipping away. Meanwhile, Sirenmon interpreted Mercurymon's statement as a definitive order, not merely a suggestion.
"It seems very appropriate to me," Sirenmon replied with calculated firmness. "However, only under the condition that I reunite and move in with my mother as soon as possible."
Mercurymon nodded, knowing that the logistics of the proposal could be complicated.
"I see no issue with that," he replied. "However, Ceresmon doesn't have her own territory yet. She is currently staying in Deramon's kingdom. You will stay in the Palace of Mirrors for security reasons until your mother is definitively settled." Mercurymon refrained from suggesting that Sirenmon move in with her father; he didn't want to complicate his uncle's already complicated married life.
Venusmon, surprised by the mention of a new obstacle, questioned with a mix of confusion and disbelief:
"Are we going to conquer territory for Ceresmon?"
"She asked me to bring it up at the next hearing," Mercurymon said in a voice that seemed to enclose the certainty of an imminent decision. "If she has enough support, a territory will be chosen and occupied. If not, it will be postponed. Ceresmon's nature is such that absolute rejection is not in her vocabulary. Postponing it is simply a more diplomatic way of refusing."
Venusmon, with a mix of discontent and determination, replied:
"If Ceresmon mobilizes others to take some place, I think we all have the right to propose alternatives."
"Ceresmon has no home. You do," Mercurymon responded with a firmness that ended the debate.
Sirenmon remained silent, not wanting to intervene in the heated discussion.
"Ceresmon hasn't done anything for the revolution. I have," Venusmon said, frustration clearly resonating in her words.
Mercurymon nodded with a resignation that indicated acceptance of the truth in her statement, though not without slight concern.
"I don't deny it," he said. "However, your lake is gone, Venusmon. It's out of your reach and located in a very complicated area. We can't access it."
"Not yet," Venusmon declared, with a determination that seemed to defy physical and logistical limitations. "Believe me, we'll get it."
Mercurymon, with his ability to read between the lines of Venusmon's words, wasn't fooled by her optimism. The mention of a collective effort indicated to him that the goddess wasn't only thinking of her own efforts but of acting with or without her family's support. Though Venusmon's words represented progress in her rhetoric, Mercurymon knew that the goddess's speech progress wasn't enough to conceal the reality of her intentions.
Those cheap rhetorical techniques were an improvement in the goddess's speech, but they didn't deceive an expert speaker like Mercurymon. Even though her attempt to ease tensions seemed in vain, Venusmon still had other cards to play.
"On another note, even if Sirenmon moves here, I would still need to use this castle for my meetings with Seraphimon," Venusmon added, with a seemingly casual tone, though laden with ulterior motives. She knew her previous proposal had failed, but she hoped that at least this request could proceed without further obstacles.
Sirenmon couldn't help but widen her eyes at the revelation. Was Venusmon now involved with Seraphimon? It seemed hard to believe, especially after the rumors about her indiscretions with Marsmon and Apollomon. Wasn't that enough? Poor Vulcanusmon surely had no idea about the helmet of Olegmon she was unknowingly wearing. However, what bewildered Sirenmon the most wasn't Venusmon's supposed romances, but the apparent cooperation between her and Mercurymon. From what she had heard, their relationship was nothing more than pragmatic forced companionship, far from a true friendship.
"And why is that?" Mercurymon asked, crossing his arms, his piercing gaze shining behind his wolf mask. "It doesn't seem appropriate, considering we now have a new tenant in the castle."
"At least let me have this last meeting. I've already sent the letter summoning Seraphimon here tomorrow," Venusmon replied, her tone more demanding than pleading. She knew she couldn't give in so easily.
"Impossible. I have a meeting with the messengers. You'll have to find another place," Mercurymon cut her off, his tone devoid of hesitation.
Venusmon was about to reply, but before her lips could form any words, Mercurymon added with cold resolve:
"I said it's impossible, Venusmon. Understand that. It's nothing personal, as you can imagine."
Frustrated, Venusmon let out a sigh but didn't give up so quickly.
"And what is this sudden meeting about, if I may ask? If it's something routine, you could postpone it," she countered, intertwining her fingers on her lap, searching for any flaw in Mercurymon's argument.
"In fact, it's about gathering the information my Sepikmon have brought," Mercurymon replied, carefully choosing his words as usual.
"Spying?" Sirenmon interjected, still absorbing the new dynamics of the castle. "I thought your messenger service was just that—delivering messages."
Mercurymon looked at her with an expression that revealed almost exhausted patience, but responded with the same measured tone as always.
"Let's just say that in light of the extraordinary measures we're taking, my messengers have expanded their functions. Now they also engage in reconnaissance and information gathering."
"I see," Sirenmon replied in a neutral tone. She knew many things had changed since she left, but she didn't expect the transformation to be this deep. The world she had known now seemed almost unrecognizable.
A heavy silence fell over the room as Venusmon tried to absorb Mercurymon's refusal. Her plans were being disrupted, but the goddess of love wasn't ready to surrender just yet. The conversation seemed exhausted until Venusmon, with a slight smile, stood up, straightening her garments.
"I believe we have no more matters to address until the meeting," she said, raising her chin. "My mission has been successful, as you can see, and in a couple of days, I will leave for our next objective."
Mercurymon watched her for a moment, his gaze as impenetrable as ever, before replying:
"I hope so. You know we're interested in getting her soon," he said in a brusquer tone than usual. He knew well that recovering their other target was essential to solidify the alliance with his uncle, something they couldn't afford to delay any longer.
Venusmon, without losing her composure, nodded before turning toward the exit, leaving behind an atmosphere charged with unresolved tension. Mercurymon, watching her one last time before turning his gaze to Sirenmon, decided it was time to attend to his new tenant.
"Come, I'll show you to your room," he said, his voice regaining the calculated neutrality that characterized him.
The Palace of Mirrors, with its primarily defensive and utilitarian design, lacked the comforts one would expect in a residence of such magnitude. Its reflective walls were not meant to beautify or decorate, but to confuse the enemy and offer the host a strategic advantage. The silence in the hallways was profound, broken only by the footsteps of Mercurymon and Sirenmon, who followed closely behind the Olympian while trying to familiarize herself with her new surroundings. The mirrors, which seemed to multiply the spaces infinitely, reinforced the feeling of isolation and constant surveillance.
Finally, they reached the room intended for the siren. Upon entering, Sirenmon scanned the room with an analytical gaze. What she saw was not particularly comforting. The simplicity was almost desolate. Only a sizeable bed occupied the center of the space, flanked by a small wardrobe. The moonlight, filtering timidly through a small square window above the bed, was the only source of illumination. There were no lamps, no switches, no candles. The room lacked any signs of warmth or comfort.
"All the rooms are similar," commented Mercurymon, as if reading his guest's thoughts. "However, this is one of the few that has a place to store your belongings."
Sirenmon, whose recent past had stripped her of any personal possessions, ironically wondered what things she would even have to store here. She didn't reply, but her distant gaze said it all.
"And where are your quarters?" she ventured to ask, wanting to know how close her host would be.
"Right next to yours," Mercurymon responded without hesitation. "That way, if we need something from one another, there will be no problems finding each other. The palace is bigger than it seems, and I prefer you to be close by."
Sirenmon couldn't help but think that this proximity had nothing to do with convenience, but with control. Mercurymon wasn't one to leave anything to chance, and having her under direct watch seemed like a priority. Still, the atmosphere between them wasn't entirely hostile. In his own way, the Olympian was trying to be courteous.
"I suppose you must be tired from the journey," Mercurymon continued, watching her closely. "Tomorrow, we'll rise early. I'll show you the main parts of the palace and the surrounding area. I don't want you to feel like a prisoner here; I want you to get familiar with the place."
Sirenmon nodded, confirming Mercurymon's assumption. The exhaustion from the journey, combined with the complexity of her situation, had left her drained. However, she sensed that the tour the next day wasn't just a gesture of hospitality; it was yet another tactic to strengthen bonds and gain her trust. Despite his apparent kindness, Mercurymon remained concerned about the influence Venusmon might have over the young siren. Any collaboration between the two could have unforeseen consequences, and the god was not willing to leave loose ends.
"Rest," Mercurymon said before withdrawing and leaving the room, without locking the door.
Sirenmon had somewhat expected the Olympian to lock it, as if that action would confirm the true control he exerted over her. However, Mercurymon didn't. Perhaps it was a test of trust, a subtle gesture to observe her reaction, or maybe just a power play to gauge her impatience. Either way, Sirenmon's eyelids were beginning to droop, worn out from the endless day she had experienced. For now, the best course of action was to rest and hope that the next day's tour would offer her a better understanding of her new surroundings.
"Seraphimon, you have an unexpected visitor," announced Sorcerymon, his tone laden with uncertainty. The fact that an Olympian had dared to appear in the angel's celestial castle was unusual, almost unheard of. It was well known that the Olympians harbored resentment toward the Three Great Angels. After delivering the message, Sorcerymon hesitated, aware that the news required careful handling.
"Tell her to wait or come back later," replied Seraphimon without looking up from the documents on his desk. His voice, usually serene, sounded distant and slightly irritated. "You know I'm busy."
"I've already tried that, but she insists on being seen immediately." Sorcerymon's choice of words did not go unnoticed by the angel. The use of the feminine pronoun confirmed his suspicions.
"How long has she been waiting?" Seraphimon asked, raising an eyebrow, although he was already beginning to guess the answer.
"A while now... and she doesn't seem to be in a good mood," Sorcerymon replied, nervously clasping his hands. He knew that the impatience of an Olympian was not something to be taken lightly.
"Oh dear…" the angel sighed, realizing the inevitability of the situation. "Send her in. I'll deal with this later."
Sorcerymon blinked, surprised at his lord's sudden resignation. Even so, he didn't dare question the decision. Without another word, he offered a light bow and left to carry out the order, his mind wandering over the arrogance and power that surrounded the Olympians. Despite their waning influence compared to earlier times, Venusmon remained one of the most notorious and visible figures of their group. Perhaps, Sorcerymon thought, she had been chosen to carry out some kind of "celestial diplomacy."
Inside the chamber, Seraphimon stored the documents with unusual efficiency. The echo of firm, calculated footsteps resonated through the long halls. Each step echoed against the marble walls, announcing the imminent arrival of the visitor. The massive golden doors swung open with a crash, revealing the silhouette of Venusmon, whose presence seemed to fill the entire room. Her majestic bearing was wrapped in a soft light that contrasted with the austere atmosphere of the castle.
Once Venusmon crossed the threshold, Sorcerymon closed the doors with a respectful gesture before retreating, leaving the two powerful beings alone in the immense hall.
The echo of the closing doors reverberated through the vast chamber, leaving Seraphimon facing Venusmon, whose presence seemed to fill the room with an almost palpable energy. Her majestic posture, enveloped in a subtle golden glow that softened the cool evening air, accentuated her divine nature. However, there was something in her eyes, a veiled urgency, that did not escape the angel's notice.
"Good evening," Venusmon greeted, her tone courteous yet firm. The light outside began to change, bathing the room in warm tones as the twilight descended, almost in perfect synchrony with her entrance. "I apologize for appearing so suddenly, but our meeting must be moved up to this very moment."
Seraphimon, still somewhat unsettled by the unexpected visit, maintained his composure. His gaze assessed the goddess carefully, searching her expression for any clues about her intentions. Despite his usual control, the situation was unusual, even by Olympian standards.
"And what might be the reason for this, if I may ask?" the angel inquired, a mix of curiosity and caution in his voice. He knew that when it came to Venusmon, every word was calculated, and every action had a purpose.
"Mercurymon won't yield his castle to me for reasons unknown," Venusmon admitted, her tone sharper than usual. Her lips barely formed a bitter smile. Seraphimon, surprised, nodded slowly. It was rare to hear such an admission from her; it seemed that, despite her lofty position, the goddess didn't have full control over her companion. The Palace of Mirrors, Mercurymon's residence, was shrouded in mystery, and now it was clear that even for Venusmon, some of those secrets remained out of reach.
"So, the matters I wished to discuss with you, we shall address now," she concluded, with a sharp resolve that left little room for objections. Her rigid stance and the hardness in her gaze indicated that she had no intention of being taken lightly.
Seraphimon swallowed discreetly, his mind racing as he tried to anticipate the direction of the conversation. Despite his reputation as a calm and powerful leader, even he felt the pressure of being in the presence of someone like Venusmon, whose mind was an impenetrable enigma. The angel had never fully understood the complexity of the Olympians' thoughts, and least of all Venusmon's. Her vanity and apparent egocentrism were baffling, especially since, somehow, she managed to keep the other Olympians organized amidst their intricate and often absurd plans. Or so had been his impression of the goddess during their first official meeting.
The silence that followed felt longer than it really was, until Seraphimon finally broke the stillness.
"Well, what is this urgent matter about?" he asked with a mixture of serenity and caution, mentally preparing for whatever Venusmon was about to reveal. He did not want the Olympian to think that he feared her. However, her threat was always present in his mind.
With a slight nod of her head, Venusmon took a step toward him. The light that radiated from her figure cast soft shadows on the crystalline walls as the sunset outside began to give way to night. Whatever she was about to say would surely mark a turning point in their delicate relations.
—The first thing I wanted to mention is about your reunion with Ophanimon, — said Venusmon calmly, watching closely for any reaction from the angel. Although his helmet hid his face, Seraphimon felt a wave of emotion run through his body at the mention of his beloved. The cold metal of his armor tensed, but he maintained his unshakable posture, while his mind analyzed what Venusmon had just said. He had learned to be wary of the goddess, whose cunning rivaled her beauty. He knew something more would follow, but for now, he decided to listen.
—Due to recent events, — Venusmon continued, walking slowly around the room, her steps lightly echoing on the marble floor, —I've decided to move it up to tomorrow, as long as that works for you. — The goddess spoke with a serenity that contrasted with the urgency of the news. Surprised by the change in plans, Seraphimon raised a hand in acknowledgment.
—Of course, — replied the angel with controlled obedience. —I'll take care of a few matters and depart as soon as you give the word. — His mind was already beginning to organize the necessary steps, though he remained on guard, waiting for the inevitable "but."
Venusmon gave a faint smile that barely reached her eyes, stepping closer to him.
—Perfect, — she said with a sweetness that didn't quite dissolve the tension in the air. —Although, as you can imagine, there are a couple of conditions. —
There it was, the trap Seraphimon had anticipated. He felt a slight knot forming in his throat, but he forced himself to stay calm, bracing for what was to come.
—The first one is fairly simple, — Venusmon made a calculated pause, savoring the power she held over the angel. —Since I've arrived at such an inconvenient hour and I'm exhausted, I'll need to stay here tonight. That way, we can leave together early. —
Seraphimon nodded immediately, relieved that for now, the request was reasonable.
—That won't be a problem, — he assured. Venusmon's stay in the celestial castle would be easy to manage, and he preferred having her close to monitor her actions.
—The next thing, — Venusmon continued, her tone shifting to something more serious and deliberate, —is the absolute secrecy about this meeting and our "excursion" tomorrow. — She paused to ensure her message sank in deeply. —If Ophanimon suspects any conspiracy to free her, or if you disclose our arrangement to anyone... — her voice sharpened with a hint of veiled threat —this deal will be off. And you are well aware of the dire consequences that would follow. —
Seraphimon nodded again, this time more gravely. He had no intention of breaking the agreement, but Venusmon's ominous tone made him picture the punishment that would follow if he did. A shiver ran down his spine at the thought of Venusmon's powers and the repercussions that could fall upon him and his realm if he defied the goddess.
—And lastly, — added Venusmon, a dangerous smile forming on her lips, —once you reunite with your beloved and confirm she's in perfect condition, you will accompany me on my expedition to rescue the first daughter of Ceresmon. —
The words landed heavily on Seraphimon. The angel hadn't expected such a request, and although his devotion to Ophanimon pushed him to agree without hesitation, the idea of getting involved in Venusmon's affairs was a commitment he knew he couldn't easily escape.
—Ceresmon's daughter? — murmured Seraphimon, unable to hide his surprise. The weight of the revelation left him thoughtful, but he knew there was no turning back. If Ophanimon was involved, he would do anything to ensure her safety, even if it meant allying himself in a mission whose motives he did not fully understand.
—Exactly, — Venusmon confirmed.
Seraphimon observed Venusmon cautiously, trying to decipher the hidden motivations behind her words. The coldness in her tone and the indifference with which she spoke about the fate of others disturbed him. Still, he couldn't help but feel intrigued.
—Explain yourself, — he demanded, his voice echoing firmly in the vast hall. He knew Venusmon rarely revealed more than necessary, but his curiosity about the mission was growing.
—The first expedition, with the information you provided and some preliminary investigation, was a complete success, — Venusmon began, walking with the same elegance as always. —Sirenmon is safe and reunited with her family. —
Seraphimon was stunned. He knew Venusmon and her group of Olympians were efficient, but he hadn't expected the rescue of Sirenmon to be carried out so successfully. He had provided only vague information about the hideout, details that had taken him months to gather. Yet, in the short time since their last meeting, Venusmon had already completed the mission.
—Did you go alone to Proxy Islands and rescue the target? — the angel asked, incredulous. He knew Venusmon was powerful, but the idea that she had achieved such a feat in so little time seemed almost unreal.
Venusmon paused and looked at him with a faint smile, enjoying the surprise she had caused.
—It took me a full day to locate the hideout, despite the clues I had. — she explained, her tone laced with a mixture of pride and disdain. —Beyond that, there were no real traps, only the deep sleep the young one had fallen into. Sirenmon was punished only for her mother's actions, so they didn't take much trouble hiding her. — Venusmon waved her hand dismissively. —However, with her sister, the story is quite different. —
Seraphimon nodded, vaguely remembering the story of Ceresmon's other daughter. She had played a more active role in past conflicts, which justified a harsher punishment.
—Yes, she had a much more active role in the last conflict, — Seraphimon mused. The punishment imposed on Ceresmon's daughters had troubled him from the start, but there hadn't been much he could do about it at the time.
—That's not exactly what I meant, — corrected Venusmon, raising an eyebrow, waving a finger playfully. —She was punished not just to complete Ceresmon's penalty but also to keep the poor fool's husband in check. —
Venusmon's words made Seraphimon pause. He had underestimated the intricate web of consequences and punishments surrounding Ceresmon's kin. Venusmon's cunning in unraveling these details was clear.
—Plutomon? — Seraphimon asked, somewhat perplexed.
—Exactly, — Venusmon nodded slowly, as if discussing something obvious. —Since then, he's been in deep depression, unable to perform his duties properly. He's been completely sidelined, which served you well as you rose to power. —
Seraphimon absorbed the information with growing concern. The level of manipulation Venusmon wielded over the threads of power and personal relationships was deeper than he had imagined. The shadow of the mission she proposed seemed increasingly laden with risks and unforeseen repercussions, but he knew he couldn't back out.
—That's precisely why this mission is too dangerous to undertake alone, — Venusmon continued, a veiled urgency in her tone. —I need you to accompany me. Together, we can ensure Ceresmon's daughter returns safe, and that the expedition doesn't escalate beyond our control. —
The weight of Venusmon's words was undeniable. Seraphimon knew that accompanying her on this mission would entangle him in a power game beyond his control, but if he wanted to ensure Ophanimon's well-being and fulfill his duty, he had no choice but to accept.
With a barely perceptible sigh, he prepared to negotiate with the Olympian, aware that the fate of many hung on the decisions they were about to make.
—I'm sorry, but I won't be able to accompany you, — said Seraphimon, with a firmness that surprised Venusmon. The goddess raised an eyebrow, slightly taken aback by the angel's refusal, who rarely challenged her requests. —I'm soon meeting with a group of monarchs from various continents. They've traveled from far, and the matter we need to discuss is of utmost importance. It can't be postponed. —
Venusmon, accustomed to her influence bending even the most powerful to her will, paused for a moment, thoughtful. She knew that pressing or forcing Seraphimon could generate unwanted tensions, and she needed to keep the angels within her orbit, not push them toward desperate measures. Moreover, the matter of the expedition couldn't come to light. The mere suggestion of a joint operation between angels and Olympians could endanger the revolution and her privileged position among the Olympians. Unlike what Seraphimon believed, Venusmon remained under the radar, with only Apollomon and partially Mercurymon aware of her plans.
—In that case... — murmured the goddess, weighing her options. —Send me someone strong and discreet, someone you trust who can complete the mission without raising suspicion. —
Seraphimon nodded, understanding the gravity of the situation. He knew that while Venusmon was relentless, it was better to cooperate for now and avoid jeopardizing the fragile peace between the different realms.
—I believe I know the perfect companion for such a delicate mission, — replied the angel, with a touch of serenity in his voice, aware of the need for an efficient intermediary who wouldn't compromise either Venusmon or himself.
Without wasting any time, Seraphimon summoned Sorcerymon, who appeared with the same diligence and composure that always defined him. The sorcerer, always attentive to his lord's needs, listened to the instructions without question. With a respectful nod, he led Venusmon to the room assigned for her to spend the night.
Seraphimon's celestial castle always had a chamber prepared for unexpected guests, and though Venusmon's arrival had not been planned, everything was arranged with the elegance and care expected of such a majestic place. The room was spacious, with tall windows that allowed the sunset's light to pour in, casting a soft golden hue on the walls. The furniture, meticulously crafted from celestial wood, was arranged with precision, and a bed draped in fine veils rested in the center of the room. Venusmon surveyed the scene approvingly, offering no unnecessary comment. She had no intention of disturbing Seraphimon more than needed; after all, the real disruptions would come the next day.
Once the Olympian goddess settled into her room, Sorcerymon gently closed the door, ensuring everything was in order before returning to his lord's side. As he made his way back to the study, the sorcerer allowed himself a moment to reflect on the situation. Though Venusmon was a figure of great power and influence, Sorcerymon didn't fully trust her. He knew that behind her beauty and charming smile hid a sharp mind, always pulling the strings of destiny for her own gain.
Upon arriving at Seraphimon's study, he found his lord speaking with a small Patamon, instructing him to cancel all meetings and audiences scheduled for the following day. Seraphimon spoke in a controlled tone, but the gravity of his words was unmistakable. The angel was reorganizing his tight agenda, fully aware that the agreement with Venusmon was not something to be taken lightly.
"Cancel all my appointments and make sure no one interferes with our plans for tomorrow," Seraphimon ordered the small Digimon, who listened intently, mentally noting every detail. Patamon nodded quickly, his small body tense under the weight of the responsibility he had just been given.
Once the orders were delivered, Patamon swiftly left the study, leaving Seraphimon and Sorcerymon alone in the room. The sorcerer looked at his lord in silence, awaiting any further signs or instructions. Seraphimon remained thoughtful for a few moments, his gaze fixed on the documents on his desk, before finally raising his eyes to his faithful servant.
"Everything is ready," Seraphimon said at last, his voice lower, almost as if he were speaking to himself. He knew that the next day would be full of challenges, and though he trusted Sorcerymon, he couldn't shake the weight of the decisions he was making.
Sorcerymon, ever perceptive, noticed the concern in his lord's eyes. However, as a loyal servant, he merely bowed his head respectfully, ready to fulfill whatever order was given.
"Tomorrow will be a decisive day," Seraphimon murmured, sinking back into his thoughts.
Though filled with questions, the sorcerer chose not to intrude. He knew that when the time came, his loyalty would be tested in ways even he could not foresee.
"Summon Garudamon for two days from now," Seraphimon ordered firmly, his eyes hidden behind his helmet but with an intensity that left no room for doubt.
Sorcerymon slightly furrowed his brow, showing for the first time a hint of doubt on his usually serene face.
"I thought Garudamon was on a special mission in the northern lands," the sorcerer remarked, carefully choosing his words. He knew his lord always had a plan, but the sudden urgency in his orders had taken him by surprise.
"He will now be assigned another," Seraphimon replied without hesitation, his hands folded on the desk while his gaze remained fixed on the documents he had been reviewing just moments before. "A much more important one."
Sorcerymon bowed his head in understanding, though the doubt still lingered in his mind.
"Do you believe he is ready?" the sorcerer asked cautiously, knowing that while Garudamon was a formidable Digimon, the nature of the mission was unclear, especially regarding his traveling companion, Venusmon.
Seraphimon raised his gaze to his servant, a solemn expression conveying more than his words could.
"I believe he is the only one who can endure her," the angel explained, pausing before adding in a more somber tone, "I don't mean the mission, but her."
Sorcerymon nodded slowly, understanding what his lord was implying. Garudamon was a loyal soldier, one of the most reliable and steadfast in Seraphimon's service, known for his patience and mental fortitude. But dealing with an Olympian goddess like Venusmon required more than mere obedience and physical strength. It was a matter of character, of emotional resilience, something many powerful Digimon lacked when faced with Venusmon's manipulative and charismatic influence.
Even so, Sorcerymon couldn't shake a feeling of unease. Garudamon, no matter how prepared he was for physical challenges, was he truly the right candidate for a mission where the real danger might come from their own ally? Sorcerymon knew that the goddess would stop at nothing to achieve her goals, and although she hadn't revealed the exact details of the mission, her mysterious attitude and insistence on having Seraphimon, or at least someone he trusted, made Sorcerymon feel alarmed.
"I will send a messenger at once to ensure that Garudamon is back and ready to depart when called upon," Sorcerymon finally said, striving to maintain the calm demeanor that defined him. It wasn't his place to question Seraphimon's decisions, even if uncertainty gnawed at him. His loyalty was absolute, but so was his concern for those under his command.
As Sorcerymon left the study to carry out his lord's orders, he couldn't help but feel a stab of apprehension. He had witnessed many of the intrigues that swirled between the Olympians and the angels, and though he trusted Seraphimon's judgment, something about this mission felt off. The nature of the danger Venusmon posed wasn't something that could be clearly foreseen, and sending Garudamon, strong and capable as he was, might be too great a risk.
In his heart, Sorcerymon hoped his master wasn't making a mistake by trusting in Garudamon's calm nature to withstand Venusmon's intrigues. The Olympian goddess was not only known for her great power but also for her ability to manipulate situations to her advantage, twisting wills and playing with the emotions of those around her. Garudamon might be a formidable warrior, but Sorcerymon knew that the true test he would face would not be in battle, but in the intricate web of mind games that Venusmon would weave around him.
With these thoughts weighing on him, the sorcerer hurried to complete his task, hoping, for Garudamon's sake, that his loyalty wouldn't lead him into a mission from which he couldn't return.