Chapter 7: Casus Belli

PrinceMamemon sat on his throne, sitting with an elbow propped against the arm of the seat and his hand resting against his head. Standing at his side was Mercuremon, who watched as a Digimon entered the throne room.

A small, gold and copper gear Digimon floated into the throne room. The two smaller cogs on either side of his body that acted as arms jittered mechanically. The Hagurumon's body created a constant clicking and chattering sound from all the cogs and gears inside his body.

The Hagurumon floated towards the throne and stopped in front of it, bowing slightly. "Hello, Your Majesty," he greeted formally. "As you have been told, I am an envoy of the Metal Empire. I am here to discuss an important matter."

PrinceMamemon pressed his hand further against his cheek and sighed, making his feelings clear before glancing at Mercuremon.

Mercuremon took a step forwards. "We are happy to have you, Hagurumon," Mercuremon said diplomatically. "What would you like to talk about?"

The Metal Empire's envoy looked up at them. "I don't think there's any point in discursiveness or beating around the bush at this point, do you?" he said to them frankly.

Mercuremon's expression remained unchanged while PrinceMamemon's turned downwards into a deeper frown.

"What seems to be the problem?" Mercuremon asked him politely while also feigning ignorance.

"Six days ago, Your Majesty made a rather incendiary declaration to the citizens of the Mamemon Kingdom," Hagurumon stated, his red eyes turning from Mercuremon to PrinceMamemon. "You said that you were the one who hired the mercenaries who attacked, destroyed, and stole from one of our manufactories in our capital of Facture. This criminal action caused Emperor Chaosdramon most displeasure. Such a blatant attack on our state, our economy, and our values cannot be overlooked."

PrinceMamemon pursed his lips and stood to his feet. "If you remember correctly, I retracted that statement the next day," he exclaimed. "One of my subordinates had told me that that was the case, but, in fact, it was simply not true. Of course, I fired him."

"Ah, I see…" the Metal Empire diplomat responded. "Of course, someone as bright as yourself must be well aware of the Metal Empire's foreign policy. We don't like to get involved with other states and kingdoms if we can help it, but if we are attacked, we have no choice but to defend ourselves."

"It was just a tiny factory," PrinceMamemon responded flippantly. "Digimon destroy buildings all the time. It's natural when they possess such strong abilities."

"It's what was stolen that matters to us," Hagurumon answered him calmly. "Blueprints for new Metal Empire technology. Technology is the energy that powers and maintains our great empire. It fuels our economy and makes us self-sufficient. Our technology is our most valued aspect of society. We have no god but the machine. When somebody threatens that by stealing our machinery – our ideas – then we are threatened…"

"That's very honest of you," Mercuremon observed.

"I see no reason to hide it, under the circumstances," the envoy replied knowingly.

The corners of Mercuremon's lips slanted down. "What do you mean by that, exactly?"

"I don't believe that you are being entirely honest to me or my Emperor," Hagurumon stated, closing his eyes.

"You question my integrity? The nerve!" PrinceMamemon protested.

"Only when your words stand in direct contradiction to the facts, Your Majesty," the gear Digimon explained. "We know you have the blueprints for our electric arc furnace. We know you hired Black Pincer Company to attack our factory and steal those blueprints."

"What?" Mercuremon spoke incredulously.

"I have never been so insulted in my entire life!" PrinceMamemon declared, folding his arms and huffing indignantly.

"We have done no such thing," Mercuremon assured him, more level-headedly than PrinceMamemon. "We didn't hire any mercenaries."

Hagurumon opened one eye. "Very well. The Royal Knights hired them. You were just the co-conspirators and beneficiaries," he spoke with a certain confidence in his voice.

"That's absurd!" PrinceMamemon declared, although lying through his teeth.

"Please, Your Majesty, don't insult our intelligence," Hagurumon said to him. There was a twinkle in his eye. "…Or our intelligence network."

Mercuremon gave a faint sneer. PrinceMamemon froze. "What…? You were spying on us?!" the monarch demanded.

"With good reason, it appears," Hagurumon told him. "We only extend our net when we find a leviathan sneaking through our waters. One of our agents caught you speaking with the mercenaries of Black Pincer Company. We know that you and the Royal Knights are looking to undermine and disrupt us. There is no sense in denying it now."

Mercuremon frowned. "If that's what you believe, then what happens next?" he asked the envoy.

"I have been sent here to negotiate with Your Majesty," the gear Digimon responded. "I think we have a highly generous offer."

"And what is that?" Mercuremon asked.

"You return the blueprints and submit a formal apology to my Emperor, and we will forget that this whole incident ever happened," the diplomat replied.

PrinceMamemon's eye twitched and he looked as though he was steaming with anger.

"Chaosdramon doesn't seem like a forgiving individual," Mercuremon spoke, folding his arms.

"Emperor Chaosdramon is a pragmatic Digimon," Hagurumon responded. "I'm sure he would like to avoid war as much as you do."

PrinceMamemon glared at him. "Why… Why… you… I have half a mind to throw you out of this palace! I don't have to listen to this!"

Hagurumon blinked. "Pardon?"

"If your brute of a master thinks that I will grovel to him, he can think again!" PrinceMamemon declared. "And even if that weren't the case, I would never give up these blueprints!"

"I support Your Majesty," Mercuremon told him calmly.

Hagurumon frowned. "Let me put it this way… If you don't, the Metal Empire will be forced to view this as an act of aggression in the gravest manner…" he warned him ominously.

"Is that an ultimatum?" Mercuremon asked him with a faint smirk.

"Putting it simply for Your Majesty…" Hagurumon spoke. "Either you must relinquish those blueprints that were stolen or we will respond with the force of the D-Brigade."

"Just you try it!" PrinceMamemon shouted, pointing his quivering finger at him. "Attack us and you are attacking the Royal Knights as well! My loyal subordinates have promised me their aid against whatever the Metal Empire tries to do to us! Do you want to declare war on twelve of the finest warriors in the Digital World?!"

Hagurumon let out a single laugh. "We are prepared for that possibility," he responded. He then bowed his hovering body. "Thank you, Your Majesty, that is all that I need to hear."

PrinceMamemon released an angry 'humph'.

"Are you sure you won't reconsider?" Hagurumon asked him. "This is your last chance."

PrinceMamemon glanced nervously at Mercuremon.

"It is up to you, Your Majesty. After all, we do have the Royal Knights…" his advisor told him.

PrinceMamemon nodded and folded his arms. He looked at Hagurumon. "Tell Chaosdramon that we aren't afraid of him. We have the Royal Knights on our side!" he asserted.

"Very well… Good day, Your Majesty," Hagurumon responded, turning around and floating towards the exit of the throne room. "I feel that you won't have many in the future."

At that, PrinceMamemon took off his boot and threw it at Hagurumon after he left. "That smug… scoundrel!"

"I believe that we should start increasing security around our palace, Your Majesty," Mercuremon told him. "We should also ready the army and defences."

"Yes…" PrinceMamemon said with a heavy breath. "Yes, you're right."

"Should we contact the Royal Knights?" the mirror Digimon asked him.

PrinceMamemon frowned and his lip began to quiver somewhat. "Alphamon will be most displeased with me…" he murmured. "Leave them for now. We can take care of things for the moment."

"Of course, Your Majesty…" Mercuremon responded, turning to PrinceMamemon with a shimmer in his mirrors. "I shall begin preparations."

"Thank you, Mercuremon," PrinceMamemon said with a shaky sigh. "I shall prepare an announcement to the public."

Mercuremon bowed and then turned towards the door. He strode out quietly with an unreadable expression on his lips. As he left, the guards flanking the throne room entrance closed the doors behind him.

When he was gone, PrinceMamemon sat back on his throne and wrung his hands. "I do hope that I didn't make a mistake…" he muttered nervously.

"PrinceMamemon made a massive mistake," Alphamon announced.

He stood in the war room on the castle along with the other eleven Royal Knights. With them were the heads of the Royal Knights' military forces and intelligence: Ouryumon, Knightmon, Grani, and Karatenmon.

The sixteen top officers sat on the stools and chairs that were arranged in a circular pattern in the room. They were centered around the large, flat table in the middle of the room. The topside of the table was lit up as it projected a three dimensional, grid-like hologram of the Digital World. On one side of the room was a highly secure door with both manual and electronic chrome digizoid locks and bolts. On the far wall of the room were maps, drawings, and photographs.

A strategy meeting was currently in session.

"I don't want to be catty, but that isn't a gigantic surprise coming from PrinceMamemon," RhodoKnightmon pointed out, folding his slender arms across his chest. "He isn't the most… Hum… how to put this politely? He doesn't have a lot of commonsense."

"That's putting it mildly," Craniamon added irately. "He thinks we're his subordinates."

"Which mistake exactly, Sir Alphamon?" Knightmon, Captain of the Defence Forces, inquired.

"Publically pretending to have those blueprints," Alphamon responded as he tapped his finger on his leg. "If he really took the blueprints now, he'll have no plausible deniability. There won't be any way back."

Dukemon glowered and turned his helmeted head to look at Grani. "Grani, have you heard back from our envoy to the Mamemon Kingdom?"

"I'm afraid so," Grani replied matter-of-factly. "He was told by PrinceMamemon, 'Thanks, but we have things under control.'"

"Not the most reassuring of responses…" UlforceVeedramon said with a sigh.

"Why would Black Pincer Company give the blueprints to the Mamemon Kingdom?" Magnamon asked.

Gankoomon brushed a hand through his red hair. "Because they were hired to, Magna," he flatly answered.

Magnamon rolled his eyes. "I know. I meant who would hire them and why?"

"We think that PrinceMamemon is being set up," Alphamon explained. "We know from Dorbickmon that it isn't Black Pincer Company acting on their own."

"Perhaps it's the Metal Empire," Duftmon proposed, closing his eyes and thinking. "It may be a false flag operation. It could be that the Metal Empire hired them and faked an attack on their city so that they could pin it on the Mamemon Kingdom. Perhaps they wanted a pretext to invade them."

"Dorbickmon doesn't think that they were hired by the Metal Empire," Examon told him.

"Is he an expert on Digital World politics?" Duftmon sceptically questioned the dragon knight.

"Not at all, but he was there," Examon answered. "Besides, they were attacked by a Metal Empire team. The facts don't add up."

"I don't think you really believe that idea anyways, Duftmon," Omegamon said to him. "The Metal Empire doesn't have an aggressive foreign policy like that, even if a tyrant is in control. They would rather maintain the status quo."

Duftmon released a sigh. "Yes, I suppose you're right, Omegamon," he conceded, folding his arms and tapping his index finger on his bicep. "But I'm struggling to think of another perpetrator. It can't be the Mamemon Kingdom. That makes little sense either."

"We have bigger problems right now, I'm sorry to say," Karatenmon announced with a serious look on his avian face.

The twelve Royal Knights and other three Captains turned to look at him. "Please, go ahead," Alphamon urged the Captain of the Stealth Forces.

"I have a loyal spy who has a fairly high rank in the D-Brigade," the black raven man said. "He reported that the D-Brigade has confirmed that the Mamemon Kingdom has the stolen blueprints. One of their spies saw that PrinceMamemon took the blueprints from Black Pincer Company."

A wave of surprised and concerned mumbles filled the war room.

"So, the Metal Empire knows that PrinceMamemon has those blueprints…" Alphamon said with a groan.

"Wait," Karatenmon said, rubbing the back of his feathery neck. "It gets worse…"

"How?" Craniamon asked curtly.

Karatenmon offered a sheepish grin. "…PrinceMamemon apparently implicated us in helping him get the blueprints."

The entire room fell silent with utter disbelief and fury.

Dukemon slapped his helmeted forehead. "I'd wring his neck if he had one," he said with an annoyed growl.

"This is because you all humoured him," Duftmon chastised. "We shouldn't have left PrinceMamemon with any delusions. Now he thinks that he's above our authority!" He shook his head crossly, causing his blond hair to flow behind him. "The foolishness of lowly idiots can be dangerous to a few Digimon, but the foolishness of powerful idiots can be dangerous to the entire Digital World."

"He's the ruler of the Mamemon Kingdom," Ouryumon replied. "I wouldn't exactly call that powerful."

"Fool," Duftmon told him. "He becomes powerful when he drags both us and the Metal Empire into his web of foolishness."

"Let's not take this out of proportion…" Omegamon put forward.

Alphamon nodded in agreement. "Omegamon's right. There is still time for diplomacy."

"You think so?" Dynasmon asked sceptically.

"We could always say that PrinceMamemon is lying about our involvement," RhodoKnightmon suggested. "That is the truth, after all…"

"And leave the Mamemon Kingdom to face the Metal Empire on their own?" Dukemon asked, frowning at the idea. "Besides, would they even believe us?"

Craniamon shook his head. "We aren't allies with the Mamemon Kingdom. It's PrinceMamemon's mess. Why should we risk our necks and our soldiers to help him?"

"And let the innocent Digimon of the Mamemon Empire pay the price for his mess instead, Craniamon?" Sleipmon countered.

Craniamon gave Sleipmon a leer. "Do you know how strong the D-Brigade is?" he asked him.

"I never thought I'd hear words of cowardice from you, Craniamon," Dynasmon contended, looking over at the violet Royal Knight.

"I am not a coward," Craniamon fired back immediately. "But I'm not stupid either, Dynasmon. We need to weigh the odds."

"Shouldn't we side with the Mamemon Kingdom if Chaosdramon is an oppressive tyrant?" Examon suggested.

Duftmon nodded. "While we've been put in an unpleasant position, we should take advantage of this opportunity. We've been looking for an opportunity to take down Chaosdramon and his regime. Why don't we make the most of this?" the tactician advised.

Magnamon frowned. "Doing that would result in an open war. The casualties would be…"

"Tolerable," Duftmon responded. "There is nothing worth fighting for that doesn't have a risk of sacrifice. If we strike first, we can minimize that risk."

RhodoKnightmon glanced at Duftmon. "If war is unavoidable, then I suppose that is the best way to proceed."

"That's an irresponsible way to look at it," UlforceVeedramon spoke. As he opened his mouth to protest more, Alphamon spoke up.

"Enough. Everybody," the Lord of the Empty Seat said firmly, rising to his feet. "You're all getting ahead of yourselves. We can't automatically assume that war is inevitable."

"All due respect, Alphamon, but we need to prepare for the worst," Duftmon disagreed.

"By doing that, you're already closing your mind to other alternatives," Alphamon answered. "Until they declare war, we have no reason to even consider going to war. There's no cause yet."

"We're the Royal Knights. We shouldn't need a casus belli to go to war," Duftmon protested. "We are the defenders of the Digital World. If we see strife, we don't need to adhere to treaties or borders or other trivial matters."

Craniamon frowned and nodded. "I agree, Alphamon. Not that I'm saying we should involve ourselves here…"

There were a few other nods among the Royal Knights, but some were more reluctant.

"We are the defenders of Yggdrasil," Omegamon agreed. "Those ideals are what the Order was founded upon."

Alphamon sighed. "I know. None of you are wrong. However, it's not a matter of whether we can or are allowed to, it's a matter of whether it's a good idea," he responded gently. "We may be the defenders of both Yggdrasil and the Digital World, but it's also important to maintain relations other rulers and regular Digimon. We may have a mandate that goes beyond politics, but we are still a political entity, after all. If we just ride roughshod over states or Digimon without considering diplomatic norms, then how are we any different from what DarkKnightmon wanted?"

"I agree with you, Alphamon," Dukemon spoke up. "Besides, from a pragmatic point of view, it's good to have allies since it's easier to maintain peace."

"And we're strong, but we need to pick and choose our battles with the resources that we have," Magnamon added.

Duftmon shook his head. "Nobody suggested that we should become tyrants," he argued. "However, I still believe that we should strike the Metal Empire before they get a chance to."

"Let's just see how the situation develops for now," Alphamon dissuaded. "We don't need to rush into anything. I suggest we keep an eye on the Metal Empire and respond based on their actions. If they show signs of preparing to attack the Mamemon Kingdom, then we can decide what to do. We'll keep up our espionage and reconnaissance missions, and we'll step up our training drills so that we can become prepared for the worst case scenario. How does that sound?"

There was a generally agreeable response among the Royal Knights and the Captains.

Omegamon nodded. "That sounds good," he responded. "Dukemon and I will see to that while you, Dynasmon, Ulforce, and Ouryumon are gone."

"You're still going?" Gankoomon asked, looking over at Alphamon.

Alphamon nodded. "The security of the Dark Area trumps this incident. The issue will likely still come up, however."

"I doubt anything exciting will happen while we're gone," UlforceVeedramon explained. "I bet that PrinceMamemon will cave in under enough pressure and this whole crisis will be averted. He's not exactly a pillar of strength."

"Yes," Omegamon stated. "We'll make it clear to PrinceMamemon that we won't stand by him if he keeps this up. We should also deny the allegations that we conspired to steal those blueprints."

"That's the best way to go, under the circumstances," Alphamon agreed.

"Can't say I like the idea of buckling to the Metal Empire," Dukemon admitted.

"We're not buckling, Dukemon. We're trying to avoid a costly war," Magnamon assured him.

The crimson knight sighed. "Yeah. I'm just getting tired of putting up with Chaosdramon," he said with a hint of frustration in his voice.

"We'll get our chance to take him down," Alphamon promised. "But we need to be smart about it. For now, we need to be diplomatic with him, even if it leaves a bitter taste in all of our mouths."

Duftmon stood up from his seat and walked up to the table, looking down at the three dimensional map that was centered over the Metal Empire. "I still believe that this could be our chance to do just that," the tactician stated, narrowing his eyes at the growing map. "However, if everybody else agrees that diplomacy is the better route, then I suppose I can agree to that."

"I do," Sleipmon spoke up.

"Me too," Magnamon chimed in.

The other Royal Knights gave their tacit agreement, although a few were more cautious or uncertain.

Dukemon stood to his feet. "We'll see how things develop," he responded diplomatically while not completely yielding his opinion. "Like you said, Alphamon."

Alphamon nodded. "That's all that I ask," he countered sympathetically.

"We won't make any decisions about it while you're gone," Dukemon assured him.

"I know," Alphamon answered with a smile.

"So, if we're not committing to a war, do we need to be here?" Ouryumon asked, gesturing to himself and the other Captains. "I mean, this is technically a war room…"

"I suppose we don't, after all," the black armoured Royal Knight admitted. "Ouryumon? Knightmon? Just step up the training and combat drills." He turned to Grani and Karatenmon. "The same goes for the Recon and Stealth Forces, but we also need you two to keep up the patrols and espionage. Give special attention to the Metal Empire and the Mamemon Kingdom. And try to keep an eye on Black Pincer Company."

"Sir," the four Captains complied dutifully.

"Anything else?" Craniamon asked, getting to his feet as well.

"Alphamon, Ulforce, Ouryumon and me are heading out tomorrow," Dynasmon reminded them. "We're takin' the Locomon Rail."

"There's also that inspection in Gold Keep in five days," Alphamon pointed out. "Sleipmon, why don't you go with Gankoomon?"

"Happy to," Sleipmon replied, looking over at Gankoomon.

Gankoomon nodded. "I don't mind, as long as someone keeps BaoHackmon outta trouble."

"Leave it to me, Gankoomon," Dukemon told him with a friendly grin.

"Does anybody else have anything to add?" Alphamon questioned as he looked around the room. The Digimon shook their heads. "Then you're all dismissed."

The rest of the Royal Knights and Captains stood to their feet and began to funnel out of the room.

"I will stay here and go over possible scenarios should the Metal Empire decide to go to war with the Mamemon Kingdom," Duftmon said, pressing several buttons on the side of the electronic war map.

Alphamon nodded at him. "That isn't a bad idea, Duftmon," he told him. "You're not wrong in saying that we should be prepared."

"You just think that we shouldn't be clamouring for war," Duftmon answered, not looking up at Alphamon and, instead, creating physical representations of the geography between the Mamemon Kingdom and the Metal Empire. "I suppose I can understand the logic there…"

"Thanks, Duftmon," Alphamon said in response. "And I trust you to find that best tactical solution, should the worst case scenario arrive."

Duftmon nodded. "I shall. …Although Suijinmon is a worthy adversary, he doesn't have the practical experience that I do," he assured Alphamon as he started to create formations of D-Brigade troops on the map.

"I'm glad you're on our side," the leader of the Royal Knights told him.

"Mhm…" Duftmon murmured in reply, uncertain of what else to say.

With that, Alphamon followed the rest of the Royal Knights out of the war room and into the broad, stone hallway.

Dorbickmon was waiting there, leaning against the cool wall with folded arms. Examon stood beside him, talking to him.

Alphamon made his way over to the two red dragons. "Dorbickmon," he greeted. "Sorry you had to wait out here, but everything that happens in the war room is top secret."

Dorbickmon shrugged. "Anything I need to know about?" he asked him.

"I'll get you your payment and then you can be on your way," Alphamon answered. "If you can, try to keep an eye on Black Pincer Company. I don't expect you to follow them, but I don't want to forget about them entirely. They are wanted criminals, after all."

"I hear ya," Dorbickmon said, raising his muscular arms and stretching them out as he walked. "D'you think they're finished with this whole Metal Empire crap now?"

"I can't be sure. We're still not certain who hired them," Alphamon explained. "Ideally, we'd like to know, but if Black Pincer Company doesn't even know who hired them, then I don't expect you to find out."

Dorbickmon nodded. "I'll just keep my ear to the ground, then."

Examon turned to look at Dorbickmon. "They didn't suspect you, did they?" he asked him.

"No. If anything, they owe me." Dorbickmon answered with a grin. "I saved GrandisKuwagamon's ass."

Examon sighed. "I guess that's good?"

"It doesn't hurt. Anyway, I guess I'll head to Dragon's Peak to check my mail," Dorbickmon said. "See if I have any job offers."

Examon nodded. "We should both visit there sometime. It's been awhile since I've last been to the UDC," he said.

"Yeah, maybe when you're not so damn busy with Royal Knight stuff," Dorbickmon said with a chuckle. "I guess all this stuff you're dealing with right now will keep you guys occupied, huh?"

"Seems like it," Examon answered.

Alphamon's brows furrowed. "Hopefully everything will be settled quickly…"

A sheet of grey and white clouds lingered over the industrial city of Facture. The foggy overcast spanned the skies as far as the eye could see. Beads of water dotted the metal streets and alloy buildings, indicating that it had rained overnight.

Despite the presence of rain in the Metal Empire, very little of the metal actually rusted, thanks to the work of the leading metallurgists under former Emperor JumboGamemon's rule. This is reflected in the sleek, shimmering lustre of the metals that made up Facture. However, certain parts of the city, like the streets, were much darker and duller. This was thanks to their constant use by metal feet, wheels, and treads, which made sure the roads were thoroughly scuffed.

Today was a busy day for the Digimon of Facture, and no inclement weather would stop that. While life went on as normal for the civilian population, there was a big event taking place for the D-Brigade.

It was the D-Brigade Review. This was the public inspection of the armed forces of the D-Brigade by Emperor Chaosdramon. Officially, it was a regular inspection to make sure that the D-Brigade was disciplined and prepared. However, its real purpose was to show off the Metal Empire's martial capabilities. Of course, the covert portions of the D-Brigade weren't involved in this for the sake of secrecy. Nonetheless, a military review gave off another atmosphere. When one sees the military marching, standing at attention, and practicing their attacks and formations, it gives the impression that they are preparing for war.

The D-Brigade stood in the expansive yard of D-Central. There were rows and rows of Digimon, organized into squares based on their formations. There were thousands of Commandramon, all standing with their rifles shouldered. Being the smallest, they were near the front of review. Behind them were hundreds of Sealsdramon, Andromon, Guardromon, and other humanoid machine and cyborg Digimon. At the very back of the rows were dozens of large, mechanized Digimon like Tankmon, Mechanorimon, Tankdramon, MetalGreymon, Bolgmon, MetalTyrannomon, and other bulky bio-mechanical Digimon. Hovering above these groups were airborne Digimon like Gigadramon, Megadramon, Pteranomon, Rapidmon, BladeKuwagamon, and other aerial Digimon. At the very front of each formation of Digimon, presenting them, were several Ultimate-level Digimon – in many cases, they were high ranked officers of the D-Brigade. Among these were several Darkdramon, HiAndromon, MetalGarurumon, and even a few Mugendramon, among others.

Emperor Chaosdramon lumbered in front of the highly disciplined ranks of the D-Brigade, his crimson eyes inspecting them carefully. Walking along beside the crimson, metal ruler were the gold, emerald, and ruby Storm Commanders: Raijinmon, Fujinmon, and Suijinmon.

"Good work, everyone," Suijinmon said to his troops as he examined the soldiers from behind Chaosdramon.

Raijinmon and Fujinmon strode beside Chaosdramon, standing between him and the troops.

"How does Formation E look to you, Emperor?" Raijinmon asked him, walking slightly ahead of his slender, green comrade.

"Good," Chaosdramon responded between heavy steps. "They have the greatest mean percentage when it comes to ranged accuracy, correct?"

"That is correct, Emperor," Raijinmon replied, holding his Blitz Arms behind his back and striding at a brisk pace.

"Although Formation I is more accurate at long-ranged bombardment," Fujinmon amended as he walked behind Raijinmon.

"I suppose so," the Thunderclap Commander admitted, glancing over his shoulder at Fujinmon.

Fujinmon gazed across the sea of Digimon standing in strict configuration. "Emperor," he spoke, glancing up at Chaosdramon with his red eyes that gave off a faint air of aloofness. "Can I ask you something?"

"What?" Chaosdramon asked brusquely.

"Why did you decide to hold this military review?" Fujinmon questioned, though he was more looking for confirmation than an actual answer.

"Why do you think?" Chaosdramon responded. "You heard what Hagurumon said when he tried to reason with PrinceMamemon."

"So, this is the first step," Fujinmon stated knowingly, "of our response to their actions."

"They have made their intentions clear," the emperor responded. "The Royal Knights wanted to humiliate us and that spherical twit wanted to get his hands on our technologies, so they conspired together and hired mercenaries to carry out the act." He turned his head down and looked at Fujinmon as they passed a gap between the formations. "Did you think we could ignore this?"

"Of course not," the Hurricane Commander responded.

"Letting the Mamemon Kingdom walk all over us would be a disgrace to our empire, and it would set a dangerous precedent, both to outsiders and to our own citizens," Chaosdramon explained. "If we didn't retaliate, then more Digimon would be tempted to steal our technologies, and we would appear weak. Where would that lead?" The giant cyborg dragon released a breath. "We need to teach PrinceMamemon a lesson. Invasion is the only response that will leave a big enough impact. It would also be pleasing to make the Mamemon Kingdom a client state of ours, after an internal purge, of course."

"They left us with no choice," Raijinmon agreed with a nod.

"And it seems that the Royal Knights are involved, Raijinmon," Suijinmon pointed out as he caught up to them.

Raijinmon frowned. "So it seems…" he answered pensively. "However, if they choose to threaten us, then they must be dealt with as enemies."

"You're okay with that?" Fujinmon asked him.

"Of course," Raijinmon guaranteed. "They are enemies. I won't let my personal interests get in the way of what's best for the Metal Empire."

"I'm glad to hear it," Emperor Chaosdramon said. "I expect that from you as well, Fujinmon."

Fujinmon looked forwards and struggled not to narrow his eyes. "Naturally, Emperor."

"We are your loyal subordinates, Your Majesty," Suijinmon sincerely told him.

Chaosdramon nodded and walked down the line to the next group of soldiers. His feet touched down with heavy, metallic clanks, which sent reverberations through the metal below.

"How do you wish to proceed, Emperor?" Raijinmon asked him, continuing his leisurely gait.

Chaosdramon bent his head down and spoke in soft, breathy murmurs. "We will mobilize our forces gradually and in secret, so we don't arouse suspicion," he told them. "When we are ready, we will advance. I suggest the force travels through the Tepid Plains and either receives a right of free travel through the Dual Chess Monarchy or it goes around them. Then take the Mamemon Kingdom capital of Haganemame City and silence any resistance."

"We'll devise a campaign," Suijinmon assured Chaosdramon.

Chaosdramon nodded. "I'm counting on it. Keep the details top secret," he told them.

"When do you want to initiate the operation?" Fujinmon questioned.

"A few weeks," Chaosdramon answered, too low for any of the troops to hear. "That should give us enough time and it should throw the Royal Knights off."

"Yes, Emperor," Raijinmon complied.

"We may also need to begin thinking about taking preventative measures against the Royal Knights," the massive cyborg ruler added. "We shouldn't deal with them until we take the Mamemon Kingdom, but we need to prepare for the eventuality of their intervention. It is probable that they are hoping to use this as an excuse to attack us."

"Logical thinking," Suijinmon agreed. "I will begin devising countermeasures."

"Good. I'll take care of the political aspect regarding passage through the Dual Chess Monarchy," Chaosdramon responded. "They wouldn't dare to refuse us."

"Still, we shouldn't outstay our welcome," Fujinmon stated. "It would be best to have the armed forces pass straight through as quickly as possible."

Suijinmon gave a hum of disapproval. "We need direct supply lines for the advance forces," the Waterfall Commander explained. "The Chessmons will have to accommodate that."

"I suppose they will," Emperor Chaosdramon agreed. "You three have your orders. I trust you to compose the tactics and the logistics. But do it later." With that, he trudged ahead of the three Storm Commanders to inspect the next group of D-Brigade soldiers on his own.

Fujinmon walked gracefully beside the other two. "So, it's war, is it?"

"Yes," Suijinmon answered simply, plodding along.

"Seems like it," Raijinmon agreed as he rested his hands behind his back.

"How do you feel about it?" the green cyborg Digimon asked them.

Suijinmon glanced at Fujinmon. "I completely agree with Emperor Chaosdramon. Don't you?" he asked him.

Fujinmon looked forwards and rolled his eyes. "Yes. I do. I was just curious, Suijin," he responded flatly. "No need to get defensive."

"I wasn't…" Suijinmon responded, glancing to the side.

"I think it could be interesting," Raijinmon added. "We haven't had an external military campaign since the Pirate Wars, and that was mostly naval."

"That reminds me, we need to show Emperor Chaosdramon the navy next," Suijinmon stated.

Fujinmon ignored Suijinmon. "That's true, Raijinmon. I think it could be an interesting opportunity for us."

Raijinmon nodded and let his arms hang at his sides. "Yes, it could be. If our actions are impressive enough, we could really make names for ourselves," he mused.

"Perhaps more than that, depending on how things go," Fujinmon thought to himself.

Suijinmon returned to speaking with the officers of the formations, so he began to linger behind the other two.

Fujinmon glanced over at Raijinmon. "What's your opinion, Royal Knight expert? Can we handle their Order if it comes to it?" he questioned him quietly.

Raijinmon folded his arms and closed his eyes. "They aren't to be underestimated…" he responded. He opened an eye and glanced at his green comrade. "However, I'm confident that we're a match for them. They may have quality in strength, but we have greater numbers and greater discipline. Plus, you, Suijinmon and I are strong, capable, and intelligent. We need to be cautious, but it's not as if the Royal Knights are unbeatable. We have a fighting chance if we're clever."

Fujinmon nodded. "Good. I'm beginning to look forward to this…"

The gold cyborg Digimon frowned. "We should get back to the inspection, don't you think?" he asked him.

"Of course," Fujinmon stated, turning and looking at the columns and rows of Digimon.

The three Storm Commanders caught up with Chaosdramon as he inspected the thousands of D-Brigade soldiers standing at attention. It was this mass of ground, armoured, aerial, and naval troops that would soon be preparing for war. It was a terrifying force to face… especially for a tiny state like the Mamemon Kingdom.

Meanwhile, it was a partially sunny day in Shroud. The data storm, while continual, was currently peaceful enough to allow brief bouts of sunlight through the tumultuous grey-violet clouds. Rays of sunshine would beam down on the city for a few minutes before being staunched by clouds for another few minutes. This cycle throughout the day was usually the best the Digimon of Shroud could hope for in terms of sunlight.

The streets were busy with active Digimon moving around from place to place.

A short figure walked down a street unassumingly, moving with the flow of Digimon. The Wizardmon adjusted his conical hat, tipping it backwards on his head to give himself better peripheral vision. He placed his arms back under his cowl and kept his hands near his pockets.

The Wizardmon broke off from the Digimon and turned a corner down a side street. However, he saw that the street was blocked off by police and barriers. At the end of the street was the Spirit's Rest Inn. However, there were several law enforcement officers standing around it.

Wizardmon tugged at his tall collar to better see what was going on. The third floor windows were completely blown out and some of the walls looked as if they were nearing collapse. It looked as though there was some sort of explosion inside it. He frowned and decided to ask what had happened.

He walked up to one of the officers – a tall, lanky humanoid Digimon who was wrapped in bandages. "Excuse me," he asked the Mummymon. "What happened here."

The law enforcement officer turned around. "It's an ongoing investigation, but looks like there was a big fight here a several nights ago. There was enough damage that it could collapse, so the inn's closed," he explained. "Why?"

"I was supposed to meet somebody here," Wizardmon responded.

"Well, you're not gettin' in, so just hang around the general area," the Mummymon told him with a shrug. "Maybe they'll turn up."

Wizardmon nodded and turned around, starting to walk away. He walked up the street and turned at the point where it met the longer, busier street. He turned right and began walking further into the city.

Suddenly, Wizardmon felt a tapping on his shoulder. He turned his head and saw GrandisKuwagamon walking behind him. "GrandisKuwagamon," he greeted.

"Meet us at the Severed Arms," GrandisKuwagamon told him, walking past him so that it didn't look like they were conversing.

Wizardmon nodded and watched the black insect disappear behind the Digimon in front of him. He pulled down his hat slightly and began manoeuvring around the Digimon ahead.

He walked for several blocks until he made it to a grotty street that had the rustic tavern located on the corner. Wizardmon glanced up to double check the sign before he walked in.

Upon opening the doors, he was greeted with the faint aroma of alcohol and bar food. He looked around and saw Black Pincer Company sitting in their usual corner seats, near the bar. The bar was empty except for them, which was sensible given how early in the day it was. The short, wizard Digimon began to make his way over, walking around the large pool table. He approached their table and pulled up a chair.

"Hello," he greeted, hopping onto the chair.

None of the three bug Digimon were drinking, but eating bar food instead. GrandisKuwagamon took a bite of a round, intensely orange-coloured, sun fruit. "See? Told ya he was comin'," GrandisKuwagamon told the other two.

Blitzmon turned and looked at the Wizardmon. "We finished the job, but from what you said before, your client knows that by now, right?"

Wizardmon nodded. "Everything went as planned, apparently. He gave me permission to come meet you," he explained. "Although, what happened at the inn?"

"We got swarmed by D-Brigade assholes while we slept," Bolgmon told him with a frown. "So all of our reward better be here."

"Naturally," Wizardmon assured him raising his wand and activating it to make another case of money appear on the table.

GrandisKuwagamon took the case and opened it, looking inside. "About the same amount as last time… Looks legit," he said.

Blitzmon looked at Wizardmon. "We're done with the Metal Empire now, right?" he asked him.

Wizardmon nodded. "My client has no more jobs for you directly involving them..."

"That was ominously specific," GrandisKuwagamon dryly pointed out, moving his hand across the money before closing the case.

Wizardmon chuckled a little. "Well… My client has expressed great satisfaction with your work and efficiency. He would like to contract you for another job."

GrandisKuwagamon folded his arms and leaned back in his seat while glancing at Blitzmon and Bolgmon. "I'd kinda like to know more about your client first. Why are we doing what we're doing? I don't get it."

"I can't say," Wizardmon told him. "My client has expressed the desire for the utmost secrecy."

"Does it matter as long as we keep getting money like that?" Blitzmon asked, gesturing to the case of money in front of them.

Bolgmon nodded. "We usually don't make that much money in six months," he added eagerly. "Is the payout for the next job anything like the last two?"

"It's higher," Wizardmon responded plainly.

GrandisKuwagamon frowned. "Which means it's even more dangerous," he remarked.

"Not necessarily," Wizardmon stated.

"We're listening," Blitzmon told him, looking at the Wizardmon with interest. He glanced at his fellow mercenary. "Let's hear him out, Grandis."

"Yeah, fine," GrandisKuwagamon agreed. "What's the job and what's the payment?"

"It's more of a contract than a cash reward," Wizardmon explained. "Which means that there will be a lot more money for you, but you'll be on hold to do more jobs for my client in the future, instead of just leaving with your payment after this next job."

"We know how contracts work," GrandisKuwagamon responded. "Let's talk details."

Wizardmon nodded in agreement. "Don't worry. It doesn't necessarily involve the Metal Empire," he told them. "In fact, given the nature of your company, you have much more of a stake in this than with your previous two jobs."

Bolgmon tilted his head. "We do?"

"Go on," Blitzmon urged him, leaning his arms forward on the table.

GrandisKuwagamon put down the core of his sun fruit and eyed the Wizardmon. "Let's hear it."

Wizardmon lowered his gaze. "It involves the Royal Knights…"