Chapter 15: The Princess Takes Action
Dianamon watched the visitor with interest. It had been years since anything was heard of her. Everyone assumed that princess was dead. Well, everyone except her father. The gossip about her escape had been one of the most talked-about events in the Digital World, but over time, people had stopped talking about it. Dianamon remembered the whispered conversations, the theories, and the speculations. What had caused the princess to disappear so suddenly? And now, here she was, as if no time had passed.
But this changed everything. There she was, standing before her, with a mischievous smile, glancing at her sideways. Dianamon couldn't help but feel intrigued. What had brought her back? And why was she seeking her out? They had never had any relationship: they had only crossed paths at a couple of events.
The visitor presented a slender and athletic figure, every movement displaying innate grace and strength. She wore an impressive metallic armor, a combination of blacks, light and dark grays interwoven with an elegance that could only belong to someone of high birth. Pink metallic accessories covered her chest and shoulders, extending to form a kind of skirt with the swords she used in combat, every detail carefully designed not only for protection but also to show her status.
Her helmet, delicately crafted, left space for her almost white hair to fall in a cascade, adding a touch of delicacy to her imposing figure. Each strand seemed to capture and reflect light, as if it had a life of its own. Additionally, she wore a cape that fluttered slightly with each movement, an ornament that suggested both majesty and mystery. Undoubtedly, she was beautiful and enigmatic. Dianamon wondered what secrets that impeccable appearance hid and what story lay behind those eyes now looking at her defiantly.
"Yes, I know who you are," Dianamon responded to her question, her eyes narrowing cautiously. "What I don't know is why you've come."
As she spoke, Dianamon couldn't help but analyze every gesture and expression of the visitor. What had happened during all these years? What had she experienced to return now? Her thoughts were filled with unanswered questions, but her exterior remained impassive.
"What you really want to know is where I've been all this time," the princess replied, her voice soft but full of determination.
It was true. The goddess was very curious about the princess's past, but she considered it inappropriate to ask directly. So, unless the princess confessed, she would remain in the dark. There was a part of Dianamon that wanted to break protocol, set aside her position, and simply ask, "Where have you been? What happened to you?" But she couldn't afford that weakness. Not in front of her.
"I'm sorry, but it's a secret," the princess added with a slight smile. "But, to answer your question, I've come for you to train me as a hunter."
Dianamon raised an eyebrow, surprised by the request. "You want to become one of my hunters?" she asked, clearly taken aback.
"Indeed."
Dianamon frowned, reflecting. The princess's words echoed in her mind. Why now? Why, after so many years, did she seek to become a hunter? Dianamon's hunters were not mere warriors; they were a sisterhood, a family. Could the princess understand that?
"It's been a long time since anyone outside of this moon wanted to become a hunter. Currently, the order consists mostly of Lekismon and Crescemon," Dianamon said, her voice reflecting a mixture of nostalgia and sadness.
Dianamon repressed a "It's not like it used to be." In the past, the Olympians had been the mentors of the heroes of their generation. Digimon from all over the Digital World had come to be trained by them and follow in their footsteps. In Dianamon's case, the group of hunters had been vast. However, after the fall of the Olympians, the hunters dwindled, as did the applications for admission, if you could call them that. Now, only her most loyal subjects who resided on her moon remained part of the clan.
She remembered the days when her moon was full of life and enthusiasm, with hunters-in-training running through the halls, filling the air with laughter and animated conversations. But those days had faded like a distant dream. Now, the moon was silent, almost melancholic, and Dianamon felt the weight of that loneliness every day.
She looked at the princess, trying to see beyond her armor and mischievous smile. Could this young woman bring back some of the past glory? Or was it just another illusion, destined to fade away? Doubts assailed her, but also a spark of hope, one she didn't dare fully acknowledge.
Dianamon observed the princess in silence for a few more moments, evaluating her words and the firmness in her gaze. There was something about her, a mix of determination and mystery, that aroused both curiosity and caution in the goddess. Finally, making a decision, she spoke with a clear and firm voice:
"I have no objection to accepting your request," Dianamon said at last, though doubts and unanswered questions still swirled within her. However, curiosity gnawed at her, and this seemed like an opportunity she couldn't pass up.
The princess smiled with gratitude, but her expression quickly turned serious. There was an urgency in her eyes, a need to remain hidden that couldn't be ignored.
"All I ask is that this remains a secret. I don't want my whereabouts revealed. Not yet, at least," the princess said, her voice soft but laden with evident weight.
Dianamon nodded slowly, understanding the gravity of the request. The princess's need for security and anonymity only heightened the mystery surrounding her return. What or who was chasing her? What danger lurked so closely that she needed such precaution?
"I understand," Dianamon replied, her thoughts spinning around the implications of this new responsibility. "Your secret will be safe with me. No one will know of your presence here until you decide."
The goddess paused, reflecting on the possible consequences of this agreement. Accepting the princess meant not only training her but also protecting her from unknown threats. It was a burden Dianamon was willing to bear, but not without some apprehension.
"You must know that becoming a hunter is no easy task. It requires dedication, sacrifice, and unwavering loyalty," Dianamon added, her gaze fixed on the princess, searching for any sign of doubt or hesitation.
But the princess did not waver. In her eyes shone a fierce determination, an iron will that could not be ignored.
"I am willing to do whatever it takes," the princess responded firmly, her stance reflecting an unbreakable resolve.
Dianamon nodded again, now more convinced of the princess's sincerity. Though many questions remained unanswered, there was something undeniably genuine in her desire to be trained.
"Very well, then. Prepare yourself for the most rigorous training you've ever faced. It won't be easy, but if you truly wish to become a hunter, you will prove your worth," Dianamon concluded, a mix of challenge and hope in her voice.
Dianamon paused, observing the princess. The decision she was making was serious and binding.
"To formalize your entry, you must take an oath of loyalty," Dianamon said, her tone solemn. The oath was not just a formality but a commitment that defined the loyalty and purpose of a hunter.
The princess nodded, showing her willingness to proceed.
"Repeat after me the oath: 'I solemnly swear...'" began Dianamon, her eyes fixed on those of the princess.
"I solemnly swear..." the princess repeated firmly, her words resonating in the air.
"Loyalty to Dianamon and to the hunters..." Dianamon continued, her voice laden with the importance of the moment.
"Loyalty to Dianamon and to the hunters..." the princess repeated, her gaze determined and sincere.
"To practice the hunt..." Dianamon went on, each word laden with meaning.
"To practice the hunt..." the princess repeated with conviction.
Dianamon took a breath before pronouncing the final part of the oath, knowing it would be a turning point.
"And to remain a maiden, renouncing love forever," Dianamon concluded, watching the princess's reaction closely.
The princess frowned and raised a hand, interrupting the oath.
"Wait a moment," she said, her voice firm and resolute. "I cannot renounce love; it is for love that I do all this."
Dianamon felt a knot in her stomach. There was something in the princess's sincerity that touched her deeply, but the tradition was clear and strict.
"It is the fundamental condition to become a hunter," Dianamon responded, trying to maintain her authority, although a part of her wanted to understand and relent.
The princess shook her head, her determination unyielding.
"In that case, I cannot," she said in a low but resolute voice.
Dianamon sighed inwardly. She would have liked to spend more time with her. The princess had an enigmatic air that attracted her in a way she couldn't ignore.
"Could we not reach some kind of agreement?" the visitor asked, her eyes shining with hope.
Dianamon raised an eyebrow, surprised but interested.
"What kind of agreement?" she asked, crossing her arms. Her curiosity was evident.
The princess took a breath before explaining, her voice serene but firm.
"I have come here for the training the hunters undergo, not to become a hunter. I need your guidance, your experience, but I cannot renounce what drives me," she said, her gaze penetrating.
Dianamon reflected for a moment. She knew the princess was right in certain aspects. It was evident that this was not a common request, but something in her sincerity and firmness made her consider the proposal.
"I suspected as much," Dianamon responded, a spark of empathy in her voice.
"Then why not simply train me?" the princess asked, her words laden with a mix of challenge and hope.
"And why should I do that?" Dianamon asked, crossing her arms with a mix of skepticism and curiosity. She didn't want to give in so easily.
The princess didn't hesitate. "Because I know you want to," she replied firmly, her confidence radiating from every word. "I know it's been a long time since you've had hunters that aren't rabbit digimon. And you've never trained anyone of my kind. Let alone anyone as special as me," she said, running a hand through her hair, a gesture that seemed practiced.
Dianamon considered her words. Once again, they were true. Most of her hunters were already well-trained. The knowledge was passed from one to another, with Dianamon hardly needing to intervene. Dianamon's curiosity finally won. What could she lose by giving her a chance? And if she turned out to be as special as she claimed, she could be a valuable addition.
"I might be interested. But you will have to earn it," Dianamon replied, a slight smile playing on her lips.
"I expected as much. You'll put me to the test. I agree," the princess said, a spark of challenge in her eyes.
Dianamon allowed herself a moment of reflection. There was something fascinating about the princess's firmness. Her gaze held an untold story, a mix of mystery and determination that captivated her. But at the same time, she couldn't afford to show favoritism or weakness.
"If you prove yourself worthy of the training, you will achieve your purpose. If you fail, you'll return the way you came," the Olympian explained, her voice firm and authoritative.
"That's a fair deal. What will the test entail?" the princess asked, her interest genuine.
Dianamon assessed the princess with her gaze. She doubted that a digimon like her, with her regal bearing and privileged past, was cut out for combat. In her realm, she probably enjoyed more refined activities. But for Dianamon, being a hunter involved not only willpower but also a fighting spirit and combat skills.
"A battle against one of my hunters," Dianamon announced, her voice filled with challenge.
The princess showed no sign of surprise or fear. Her confidence remained intact, something that intrigued Dianamon even more. There was a strength in her that could not be ignored.
"When will the battle take place?" the princess asked, with a calmness bordering on temerity.
"Right now, if you have the strength," Dianamon replied, a glint of challenge in her eyes. She didn't like procrastinating, and besides, she needed to settle this matter as soon as possible. The meeting with the rest of the Olympians was too close, and she didn't want any other setbacks.
"I am ready for anything," the princess replied firmly. She seemed convinced she was going to win.
Dianamon couldn't help but admire that determination, though she still had some reservations. The only way to dispel her doubts was to see the princess in action.
"Follow me," said Dianamon as she left her office. The visitor obeyed, her steps sure and determined.
Dianamon led the princess through hallways illuminated by the soft lunar light filtering through the windows. Every step they took echoed off the stone walls, amplifying the tension of the moment. The princess showed no sign of doubt, maintaining a firm posture and steady gaze. Although impressed by her composure, Dianamon remained alert, observing every detail of the visitor.
Finally, they arrived at a large but empty hall. The stone walls were soundproofed, creating an atmosphere of tranquility and focus. The floor, covered with thick, well-maintained mats, gave the impression of a medieval gymnasium with a touch of solemnity. The high ceiling was adorned with ancient banners, faded but dignified, gently swaying with the air currents. Along the walls, there were torches illuminating the space with a warm, flickering light, adding a mystical aura to the place.
"It looks like a medieval gymnasium," murmured the young woman, observing the surroundings with curiosity. Her gaze traveled over every corner, analyzing the terrain where her fate would be decided.
"Position yourself at the far end of the room," ordered Dianamon. The visitor immediately obeyed, placing herself in the indicated position. Her posture remained firm, a blend of grace and determination.
Soon after, a Crescemon entered the room. Undoubtedly one of Dianamon's hunters, she was to be her opponent. She walked with a light and confident step, as if certain of her victory. Every movement reflected confidence and preparation, like someone accustomed to facing challenges.
Dianamon watched Crescemon closely. She had a slender figure, similar to that of her opponent. Her feminine, humanoid body had pale pink skin, which darkened toward her pointed rabbit-like ears. Her small face, compared to her body, was covered by a fine helmet that revealed only her intense and determined eyes. The upper part of her torso was protected by light armor made of a flexible but resistant material, allowing her to move with agility. The rest of her uncovered body featured strong, muscular legs designed for both speed and strength.
"She will be your opponent," announced Dianamon, her voice resonating in the room. The authority in her tone left no room for doubt.
"What a surprise..." murmured the princess, not losing her composure. Her eyes shone with a mix of anticipation and challenge.
Dianamon could perceive the spark of competitiveness in the eyes of both. She knew that what was about to happen would be crucial in deciding the princess's future.
"Let the battle begin," said Dianamon, initiating the test that would determine the princess's future.
The tension in the room was palpable. The torches flickered slightly, as if they too felt the anticipation of the moment. Dianamon, taking her place as an observer, prepared to evaluate not only the princess's combat skills but also her spirit, determination, and ability to adapt. She knew that this battle would test not only physical strength but also the will and heart of the young woman who dared to challenge established norms.
Crescemon adopted a defensive stance, evaluating her opponent with a keen gaze. The princess, showing no fear, prepared for combat. Her muscles were tense and ready for action. The silence was broken by the first movement, and the battle began with an explosion of speed and skill.
Crescemon advanced with great leaps until she reached her opponent. She attempted to strike with her crescent-shaped blades, but the visitor dodged with surprising agility, spinning gracefully like a dancer and landing in a defensive position. Her eyes, cold and calculating, never lost sight of Crescemon for an instant.
The princess, wasting no time, tried to strike with her mace, an imposing weapon decorated with intricate engravings. Crescemon blocked the attack with her blades, and the impact caused sparks to fly, filling the air with vibrant energy. Crescemon had to step back, evaluating her adversary with a sharp look, appreciating the princess's unexpected strength.
Without hesitation, the visitor struck the ground with her mace, causing a tremor that resonated throughout the room and forced Crescemon to kneel. The hunter quickly stood and delivered two strikes with her blades, generating two turquoise beams that headed towards her opponent. The princess elegantly ducked, and the beams hit the wall, freezing it instantly. The sound of cracking ice added a layer of tension to the combat.
Dianamon watched the fight, entertained. Perhaps she had been a bit cruel in choosing one of her best hunters, but she didn't want the test to be easy, especially knowing the personal goals the princess pursued. She was impressed by the skill and determination shown by both contenders.
Crescemon continued to slash at the air, forcing the princess to dodge to avoid being frozen. The visitor was beginning to tire; she believed Crescemon's tactics were cowardly, so she launched an attack with renewed determination.
She started running towards Crescemon, who launched another turquoise beam. The princess drew one of the swords from her skirt and split it in two with a fluid motion. Instantly, her sword froze, covered in a layer of gleaming ice. She was close enough to Crescemon, so she extended her arms and delivered a powerful blow with her mace. Crescemon tried to block it with her blades but wasn't fast enough. Her arms gave way, and the princess's blow made her kneel again.
Crescemon rose with feline agility and created two energy beams, but this time they had a dark purple hue, a color that promised more damage. They sped towards the visitor with astonishing speed. She tried to dodge, but couldn't avoid the attack completely. She drew another sword and split one beam in two, creating a shattered glass effect in the air. The other beam hit her right leg, causing her to fall with a muffled cry of pain.
The princess knew she couldn't defeat her that way. Crescemon had greater resistance to blows and skills that exceeded her expectations. However, she had an idea. She could get out of this predicament satisfactorily by using cunning and strategy instead of sheer brute force.
As she struggled to stand, leaning on her mace, the princess looked around, seeking something that could give her an advantage. The room, with its torches and banners, offered few options, but she remembered the effect of the tremor she had caused earlier. If she could use her surroundings to her advantage, she might have a chance. However, it was likely that the hunter had trained there thousands of times. She couldn't rely solely on that. The solution was simple: she had to not only surprise her adversary but also play on what hurt her the most—her ego.
—Giving up already? —mocked Crescemon, seeing the hesitation in the princess's eyes.
—Not in your dreams —replied the princess, with a spark of defiance.
Crescemon advanced again, confident, but this time the princess was ready. She struck the ground once more, with all the strength she could muster. The tremor was even more intense than before, shaking the entire room. The torches flickered, and the ground beneath Crescemon cracked, forcing her to lose balance.
Taking advantage of the moment, the princess lunged forward, ignoring the pain in her leg. With impressive dexterity, she dodged Crescemon's desperate counterattack and struck with precision, aiming her mace at a vulnerable point in her opponent's armor. Crescemon fell back, surprised and wounded, yet not defeated.
Dianamon, observing everything from a distance, nodded approvingly. The princess was demonstrating not only skill and strength but also intelligence and adaptability, essential qualities for any huntress.
—Fight for real, Crescemon —provoked the princess—. Those cheap tricks don't work on me. Show what huntresses are really made of.
Crescemon felt insulted, her expression hardening. Without a word, she launched herself into the attack with renewed fury. She ran at great speed despite her injuries. Her powerful legs propelled her until she was face to face with the visitor. Crescemon was slightly taller than her, and her shadow cast an intimidating image.
—Repeat that —said Crescemon, threateningly, her eyes flashing with anger.
Crescemon attacked with a series of quick and fierce blows, her blades gleaming under the room's light. The princess dodged each strike with agility, using Crescemon's enraged aggression against her. She waited for the perfect moment, staying calm while Crescemon let herself be driven by fury.
Finally, Crescemon made a mistake. In her outburst, she swung too wide, leaving her guard open. The princess did not waste the opportunity. With a quick and precise move, she delivered a powerful blow with her mace, striking directly at Crescemon's side. The impact was so strong that the huntress was knocked down, falling heavily to the ground.
Before Crescemon could recover, the princess drew one of the swords from her skirt and pointed it directly at Crescemon's neck, who lay on the ground, panting and clearly defeated.
—I'm sorry, you lost —the princess repeated, her voice firm and determined.
Crescemon, feeling defeated but also respectful, looked up at Dianamon.
—She has won —Crescemon told Dianamon, in a tired voice, her eyes reflecting a mix of confusion and respect towards the visitor.
—Well —responded the Olympian, still confused but impressed—. Come closer —she ordered the princess.
She obeyed and positioned herself beside Dianamon, her breathing still heavy from the fight. Her eyes shone with the light of victory, but also with the humility of someone who knew there was still much to learn.
— I didn't expect you to win this way — Dianamon said, looking at her with renewed interest—. You have ingenuity. That is worthy of recognition.
The princess nodded, grateful but maintaining her composure. However, her gaze shone with an unyielding determination, a flame that Dianamon recognized as the true spirit of a huntress.
— I will do whatever it takes to prove my worth — she said, firmness in her voice—. This is just the beginning.
Dianamon smiled slightly, seeing in her a potential she hadn't seen in a long time. This young woman not only possessed combat skills but also a sharp and strategic mind. Something told her that the princess would not only survive the training but excel in it.
— Very well, we will begin your training — Dianamon announced, her voice resonating in the hall—. But remember, the path will be arduous and will demand everything from you. Are you prepared for what lies ahead?
— Yes, I am ready — the princess responded without hesitation, her voice full of determination and a hint of excitement.
Dianamon nodded and stepped back, signaling the beginning of a new phase. The test had been passed, but the real challenge was about to begin. The visitor had proven to be special, and Dianamon couldn't help but feel intrigued by what the future would hold.
— You will receive your training as a huntress, Queenchessmon, as I promised. You will stay here until your training is complete.
— Yes — Queenchessmon responded, excited. She knew she would succeed. Her eyes shone with the excitement of someone who had found her true path.
— And above all, don't make me regret this — Dianamon warned, her tone softer but laden with seriousness.
— Don't worry — Queenchessmon responded firmly. She was determined not to disappoint her.
Dianamon gestured to Crescemon, who approached slowly, still recovering from the battle. She whispered something in her ear, and Crescemon nodded, perfectly understanding her leader's instructions.
Crescemon took Queenchessmon's hand and led her to her room. Both were exhausted from the challenge, but there was a tacit understanding between them. As they walked through the dark and silent corridors, the moonlight filtered through the windows, illuminating their silhouettes and creating an almost ethereal atmosphere.
The hall where they had fought remained silent, the echo of the battle slowly dissipating. It was just the beginning of a challenging path for the princess, but she was ready to face any obstacle. Crescemon, though defeated, felt a new respect for the princess and a curiosity about what the future would bring.
They arrived at a sturdy wooden door, decorated with intricate carvings of hunting scenes and crescent moons, symbolizing Dianamon's order. Crescemon opened it and let Queenchessmon enter first. The room was simple but comfortable, with a bed covered by a canopy of light fabrics, a small table, and a window offering an impressive view of the lunar landscape.
— Rest well tonight — Crescemon said, her voice kind but firm—. Training begins at dawn.
Queenchessmon nodded, grateful. As Crescemon left, Queenchessmon approached the window and looked out at the vast and serene lunar landscape. Her heart beat with anticipation and a touch of nervousness, but above all, with firm resolve. She was ready for whatever came, determined to prove her worth not just to Dianamon, but to herself as well.
It was only the beginning, but for Queenchessmon, this new chapter was full of promises and possibilities. She lay down on the bed, letting the soft lunar glow envelop her, and closed her eyes, dreaming of the day she would become a huntress worthy of being remembered in the history of the Digital World.