Holy War

by Griff4823

The sequel to "A Dragon in Shining Armour". The Royal Knights secured victory and peace set over the continent, but it isn't to last. The autocratic Metal Empire, a team of amoral mercenaries, and a mysterious Digimon in the shadows; it's up to the Order of the Royal Knights to intervene. Can they stop things from spiraling out of control, all while dealing with their own issues?

28. Chapter 19: Ambition

(Author's Notes: Here's Chapter 19! Sorry for the delay. I kept adding new scenes.

In other news, lots of Digimon stuff going on for me lately. Digimon App Monsters was announced, so that's pretty exciting. I also finished Cyber Sleuth recently, after long last. Definitely one of my favourite games of all time. I also watched the first episode of Digimon Adventure Tri for the first time last night. I really liked it! Can't wait for more.

Anyways, enjoy the chapter!)

---

Chapter 19: Ambition

The skies over Saversburg were thick with impenetrable, grey clouds. It was early in the morning, so the clouds were a dark, murky grey, and there was hardly any light across the grasslands. Shadows cast over the green fields and hills, giving the landscape a dusky atmosphere.

Several kilometers west of the large city of Saversburg were one of the giant sky waterfalls that fell from the firmament and emptied into the Champion River. The mist and spray of the crashing pillar of water cascaded across the surrounding grass. The sound of the gallons of falling water hitting the ground was reminiscent of a booming roar.

Scattered around the base of the waterfall and the edges of the river were shipwrecks. Several naval vessels lay on their sides in the grass, as if they had somehow run aground from the river. However, that wasn't possible since the waterfall came from the sky, kilometers above. They were really just more oddities of the Digital World.

On the apex of one hill was a wooden galleon, complete with majestic sails and a thick, wooden hull. There were many different kinds of ships. There was a beached, rusted dreadnought on the opposite side of the river, which was never operable to begin with. Some distance away was a derelict cruise ship, lying scuttled in the grass.

In the hull of the galleon was a massive hole, large enough for most Digimon to enter. The hill that the ship was stranded on was tall enough to overlook much of the landscape to the west. Inside the hole were three Digimon, watching from the vantage point and lying in wait within the shadows. The dark of the hull's interior cast enough shadows over them to conceal them from view.

Inside the gaping puncture, GrandisKuwagamon looked through a spyglass with his single, red eye. Using the handheld telescope, he peered into the distance, across the grassy fields and over the apexes of the distant hills.

Bolgmon sat nearby and gazed out of the hole in the ship as well. "See anything?" he asked.

"It's probably still too dark," Blitzmon responded. The azure insect man leaned against the wooden wall behind him, which was the ceiling of the toppled ship's cargo hold. He stood up straight and walked over to his two comrades.

"Hold up," GrandisKuwagamon said, staring through the telescope. "…Damn, it really is the Dick Brigade. Looks like they're crossing the river to invade Saversburg. They're still a few kilometers away."

"Let me see," Blitzmon said, stopping beside GrandisKuwagamon and holding his hand out.

GrandisKuwagamon lowered the spyglass and passed it to Blitzmon. "Go nuts," the black insect told him.

As Blitzmon peered through the scope, Bolgmon magnified his own vision and gazed into the distance. He could see the vague silhouettes of Digimon traversing the new bridge that spanned the tumultuous river. They were definitely coming from the Mamemon Kingdom to Saversburg.

"I see them," Blitzmon confirmed, narrowing his eyes.

"Ditto," Bolgmon said, adjusting his optics for better vision. "Lots of them… Can't make them all out at this range, but I can tell it's no greeting party. …Hey, weren't there supposed to be guards on that bridge?" he asked.

"There aren't anymore," GrandisKuwagamon figured. "I'm guessing the D-Brigade took care of them nice and quietly, just like they tried to do with us."

Bolgmon glanced at GrandisKuwagamon. "Well, we're not being paid to do quiet this time," he reminded him.

"Yeah, I know," GrandisKuwagamon replied shortly. "Our all-knowing client wants us to take a chunk out of the D-Brigade. He wants to make them angry. Only, I don't like facing down a D-Brigade army. Playing war's an idiot's game."

"Hit and run tactics, Grandis. It's no different from before," Blitzmon assured him. "We do what we always do: strike hard and then melt away in the shadows."

"We just have to wait for a scouting patrol. They always send scouts ahead of an attack party," Bolgmon pointed out.

"Just don't shoot them until you're sure you can hit 'em this time," GrandisKuwagamon sarcastically reminded him, thinking back to their encounter with the Royal Knights in the UDC.

"Fuck you," Bolgmon muttered to him, shooting the black insect a sideways glare.

"Whatever. I'm still not sure about this. These missions are getting more and more overt. That means we're going to be more exposed. I don't care if Wizardmon says things are coming to a head soon," GrandisKuwagamon pointed out.

"We just have to be smart," Blitzmon responded, lowering the spyglass. "I think Wizardmon's right. Things are coming to a close here. Just look at what's going on: the Metal Empire invaded the Mamemon Kingdom and now they're attacking Saversburg of all places. The Royal Knights won't stand for that." He closed his eyes. "All we have to do is do our job well, weather the storm, get paid, and then we can go back to doing what we do best."

"I guess so," GrandisKuwagamon said, though a bit reluctantly.

Blitzmon then smirked darkly. "Isn't it amazing to think about…?" he asked, prompting curious looks from GrandisKuwagamon and Bolgmon. "To think, all those years ago, we were orphaned street rats - stealing food, hawking stolen goods, petty crime… Now the Order of the Royal Knights and the Metal Empire are going to war because of us. Doesn't the power feel good? Think of the control we have…"

Bolgmon released an amused laugh. "Hey, you've got a point! Shit, I never thought of it like that," he stated, finding himself liking the idea. "We've got the Royal Knobs and the Dick Brigade dancing to our tune."

GrandisKuwagamon turned away and stared into the darkness of the cargo hold. He thought about Blitzmon's words carefully. His compound eye narrowed slightly, the bright red sheen of the sphere offset by the darkness around him.

"It's not true control though… It's a sucker's control. That's the problem," GrandisKuwagamon spoke, his voice brooding. He turned around and looked at Blitzmon. "We're not the ones pulling the strings here. It's our client, whoever the hell that is. We're just pawns in his game, doing whatever he tells us because he dangles money in front of us. I make my own decisions. That's true control."

Blitzmon locked eyes with GrandisKuwagamon. "We're nobody's lackeys. We're selling our services and skills. That's our job, remember. Our client needs us as much as we need him. Maybe more. Just don't forget… we need jobs to make money," he reminded the ebony beetle man pointedly.

"Yeah, I know how our business works, Blitzmon," GrandisKuwagamon sarcastically replied. He decided to drop the conversation. He knew he couldn't change their minds and he didn't want to press the topic. "Whatever, just hand me that telescope."

Blitzmon passed the spyglass to him and watched as the humanoid insect gazed through it, into the distance. "It's a hell of a feat though…" Blitzmon mused aloud. "How does our client keep getting this information? The D-Brigade is so disciplined and secretive. I doubt most of the officers knew about this operation until they were given their orders yesterday."

"Yeah, I've been wondering that too," Bolgmon agreed, folding his cannon arms.

"Why do you think I'm so suspicious?" GrandisKuwagamon asked. "Maybe he's got somebody on the inside of the D-Brigade. Or maybe he's in the D-Brigade."

"And he's hiring us to attack the D-Brigade?" Bolgmon retorted. "That's dumb."

"Maybe it isn't. Maybe he's playing for power… Anyway, it's just speculation," GrandisKuwagamon answered, shrugging.

"Shh," Blitzmon suddenly hushed them. He tightened his gaze as he stared through the spyglass. "Something's coming."

Flying in the sky was a contingent of five D-Brigade scouts. The recon team was heading east, in their general direction. Among them were the draconic, cyborg bodies of a Megadramon and Gigadramon, the metallic pterodactyl Pteranomon, the humanoid, wolf form of a MachGaogamon, and a scout-class Mechanorimon piloted by a Sealsdramon.

"It's a D-Brigade patrol. Probably scouting ahead of the attack," Bolgmon said, smirking.

"That's our cue," GrandisKuwagamon stated. He turned and looked at Bolgmon. "Bolgie?"

"Yeah, I know," Bolgmon responded, planting his arms into the ground. Still concealed inside the hull of the boat, Bolgmon began to take careful aim. The targeting screen emerged from his back and he began to track the five scouts flying through the sky.

"Wait until they get close. If you miss, we're screwed," GrandisKuwagamon firmly told him.

"I get it. Shut up already and let me focus," Bolgmon fired back, trying to focus on the five D-Brigade scouts in the distant sky.

Blitzmon looked at GrandisKuwagamon. "We should get ready too," he suggested.

"Yeah," the insect mercenary agreed. He took a few steps back, deeper into the cargo hold of the ship, his black carapace melding into the darkness. "Slide Evolution… GranKuwagamon."

The large interior of the ship briefly flashed as GrandisKuwagamon's body glowed and he formed into his much larger, quadrupedal form of GranKuwagamon. GranKuwagamon stretched his arms and looked at his two comrades. "We'll go when you fire, Bolgie," he explained.

"Got it," Bolgmon answered, narrowing his eyes as he gazed at the approaching scout team. "Just another minute should do it…"

Blitzmon nodded and walked over to GranKuwagamon. He climbed onto the bigger bug's back and waited. "Everybody remember the plan?" he asked.

"Just make sure to wipe them all out before we escape," Bolgmon stated. After a few seconds, the tracking system on his back locked on to the targets. "Got 'em… Haha…"

"Start the countdown," GranKuwagamon said as he began to build up dimension-warping energy in his long, jagged pincers.

"Five…" Bolgmon spoke, starting to pour positrons into the chamber of his massive horn cannon.

While Bolgmon counted down the seconds, lightning danced between Blitzmon's fists and up the length of his horn.

"Two…" Bolgmon said, narrowing his emerald eyes. "One… Field Destroyer!"

His cannon ignited with a swell of positrons that ripped through the hull of the ship, burning the surrounding wood to splinters and then ash. The effulgent beam lit up the darkened, dawn sky and streaked towards the disciplined aerial formation of scouts as they flew through the sky.

"Incoming!" the Gigadramon shouted, noticing the beam hurdling towards them. However, no sooner than he could get the words out, the beam was already upon the surprised patrol.

The laser swept through the middle of the formation, decimating the Megadramon and Pteranomon scouts immediately. The three survivors broke away from the beam that cut straight through their ranks, quickly trying to evade the attack and regroup.

"Zone Black Hole!" GranKuwagamon hissed, tearing open a dimensional rift in the air that was large enough for him to pass through. Right as Bolgmon was pushed back from the back-blast and as the beam started to diminish from his horn, GranKuwagamon shot through the hole with Blitzmon as his passenger.

The three remaining scouts began to get their bearings after the unexpected attack. "It came from that ship!" the Gigadramon exclaimed, pointing his cannon arm towards the shipwrecked galleon on the apex of the hill. He turned to the MachGaogamon and the piloted Mechanorimon. "Report back to command that we're under attack!"

"Affirmative!" the Sealsdramon replied, piloting the Mechanorimon and turning it around. Just as he began flying back towards the D-Brigade army that was still a few kilometers away, a rift appeared in the sky.

GranKuwagamon shot out of the rend and tore through the air towards them. Blitzmon kicked off his back and flew independently of GranKuwagamon, his body sparking with electricity.

"I don't think so!" GranKuwagamon exclaimed, veering in front of the Mechanorimon's path.

He raised his giant insect arm over his head and stabbed it down into the Mechanorimon. GranKuwagamon's long, deadly claws pierced through the glass of the Mechanorimon's cockpit, straight into the Sealsdramon pilot. There was a shout of pain and blood sprayed onto the shattered glass surrounding the cockpit. With the pilot deleted, the Mechanorimon ceased functioning and dropped out of the sky, crashing into the ground.

"What?!" Gigadramon demanded, spinning around to look at the new Digimon that seemed to arrive out on nowhere.

GranKuwagamon then turned his attention of the MachGaogamon, who hovered in place using his jetpack. "Dimension Scissor!" he shouted, unleashing an arc of energy from his pincers.

The sickle of energy sliced through the air and cut straight through the MachGaogamon's body as he turned around to face him. The arc carved into him and caused the engine on his back to explode in a blast of sparks and data.

The Gigadramon was unable to react to his fellow soldier's deletion; Blitzmon was already surging towards him. He raised an arm to fire one of his missiles, but to his surprise, Blitzmon was already upon him.

"Thor's Hammer!" Blitzmon growled, driving his electrically charged fists right down on the dark dragon's head and sending static power shooting through him.

With his opponent momentarily stunned, Blitzmon slammed his knee straight into the Gigadramon's chin, sending him flying upwards. Blitzmon then bent down and hooked his large, blue horn on Gigadramon's chest, throwing him over his head. "Lightning Blitz!" Blitzmon exclaimed, unleashing the massive amount of lightning that was stored in his horn.

The lightning cracked and flashed as it shot up towards the sky. The bolt of electricity tore through the Gigadramon's chest and shorted his body.

"Lightning Bomber!" Blitzmon shouted, gathering lightning at the tip of his horn where it aggregated. He beat his insect wings rapidly and shot upwards. Quickly closing the distance, Blitzmon thrust his horn into the Gigadramon's chest. Electricity exploded out of the dragon cyborg's back and he was reduced to a cloud of data.

Blitzmon slackened and looked around to make sure they didn't miss anybody. It appeared that all of the scouts were deleted.

"Dimension Scissors!" GranKuwagamon suddenly shouted, unleashing a blast of dimensional energy that tore into the inoperable Mechanorimon. The machine Digimon exploded in a ball of flames, leaving a crater of flames and dissolving shrapnel.

Blitzmon looked over at GranKuwagamon. "Got him that time?" he asked.

The black insect flapped his wings and rose into the air beside Blitzmon. "Just making sure it didn't store any information about us that the D-Brigade could find in its memory banks," he explained. "Now let's get the hell outta here. There's no way they missed that."

Blitzmon nodded and shot through the air at high speeds towards the ship that they hid in. GranKuwagamon matched speeds with him, gliding through the sky and not wanting to wait around much longer.

Bolgmon already drove out of the galleon and was speeding along the grass in the direction of Saversburg. He looked over his shoulder and saw GranKuwagamon and Blitzmon catching up to them. The large tank Digimon hailed them by waving his arm. "Hey, Grandis! How 'bout a quick exit!" he suggested.

"Yeah, no shit!" GranKuwagamon called back. He turned and looked at Blitzmon, nodding at him.

Blitzmon flew over and grabbed hold of GranKuwagamon's back once again. Once he was secure, GranKuwagamon swooped down and descended on Bolgmon.

GranKuwagamon grabbed hold of the armoured insect, he slowed his speed and sliced his scissor-like mandibles shut. "Zone Black Hole!" he said, once again cutting through the fabric of space and opening up a temporary portal in the fabric of the Digital World. The black demon bug disappeared inside, vanishing from the fields kilometers west of the city.

Moments later, Black Pincer Company emerged back in Saversburg. They appeared on a city street with a couple Digimon walking up and down the road. When the exited the portal completely, the dimensional gateway snapped shut behind them. GranKuwagamon dropped Bolgmon to the sidewalk and touched down so that Blitzmon could hop off his back. The three mercenaries dusted themselves off and began walking as if nothing had happened.

Blitzmon smirked and looked at GranKuwagamon, who walked along on his four black legs. "See? Easy money."

GranKuwagamon grunted. "Yeah, yeah. When Bolgmon doesn't screw it up," he said half-teasingly, nodding over his shoulder at the tank Digimon behind them.

Bolgmon narrowed his eyes at GranKuwagamon and quietly rolled after them. A dark glare formed in his sharp, green eyes.

"You'd better be careful, Grandis. I'm getting really fucking sick of you," he thought to himself scornfully. "We'll see who screws who…"

---

To the west of Saversburg, the Mamemon Kingdom remained fully under Metal Empire occupation. The majority of the D-Brigade was on campaign in Saversburg, and most of the remainder were in the process of invading the Dual Chess Monarchy. However, there were still a couple special formations that remained in Haganemame City to maintain control and order. They also served to protect the D-Brigade's supply lines and guard against potential revolts from the newly subjugated population.

Overseeing this transition period was Mercuremon with the help of Metal Empire agents.

Mercuremon resided in the large, dome palace of Haganemame City. At several stories high, it loomed over all of the other buildings in the city, even the factories on the outskirts of the city.

The usurping aristocrat was reluctant to go out in public in these early stages of the transition of power from PrinceMamemon to him. Although he branded the surrender of the Mamemon Kingdom as a decision that ensured their very survival, there were some who said that this was a blatant power grab and that he colluded with the Metal Empire to overthrow their true ruler, PrinceMamemon. Mercuremon decided to stay out of sight until things smoothed over. As he did this, he planned his next moves.

Mercuremon sat on his newly acquired throne. Floating nearby him was a Digimon composed of a large gear and two smaller gears for his arms. The Hagurumon was a trusted subordinate of Chaosdramon.

"Has D-Brigade's intelligence team detected any whispers of discontent?" Mercuremon asked Hagurumon curiously.

"General PlatinumNumemon has been expressing some regret of letting you surrender, but he hasn't made any indication that he is willing to rise up with his army" Hagurumon noted. "Some of your peers on the other hand… Some nobles and wealthy merchants and entrepreneurs have been meeting in secret. They think that you usurped the throne and are in our pocket. They want to do something about it, I suspect."

"I expected as much," Mercuremon responded with a half-amused smirk. "I'm sure they're just mad that I thought of it first."

Hagurumon floated in front of him, his body clicking audibly as the cogs of the gears knocked together. "They could prove to be a thorn in your side," he pointed out.

"Yes, we will have to get rid of them - throw them in jail and make an example of them. That should scare PlatinumNumemon and the others into obedience," Mercuremon responded with a calm, unconcerned tone. "Can you have the D-Brigade stage a sting operation?"

"I will have to get military permission, but it shouldn't be a problem. That is in line with what we also want," Hagurumon assured him.

Mercuremon smiled as he looked at Hagurumon. "…Do you wonder why I betrayed my king and took his throne from him? I'm sure it must be hard to trust a traitor," he mused.

"On the contrary, you made the rational decision, by all accounts," Hagurumon responded logically. "If you listened to PrinceMamemon's protests, then your army would have faced total destruction."

"It's true, much of my decision was based on protecting our tiny nation from one foolish Digimon's utter stupidity," Mercuremon responded, taking some pleasure in musing about these things. "But I didn't have to take the throne. I could have allowed somebody from the D-Brigade to take it, or suggested a suitable replacement from within the Mamemon Kingdom."

Hagurumon nodded contemplatively. "So… Why did you?" he asked.

Mercuremon smirked smugly. "I confess… Some of the things that my rivals are saying about me is true. I am greedy, ambitious, and opportunistic," he stated. "I wanted to take the throne of the Mamemon Kingdom… but only as a stepping stone."

Hagurumon looked at Mercuremon inquisitively and allowed him to continue.

"You see… I always felt held back. This kingdom… this minuscule, unimportant place that we call the Mamemon Kingdom… The most that I could expect was serving as the right hand of an oaf of a king. He would never be able to make an impact anywhere, and neither would I," Mercuremon explained.

The pair of lips within the mirror grinned further. "However… all that has changed. Now that the Mamemon Kingdom is under Metal Empire control, I have more room to… manoeuvre," he mused. "I will now be able to impress Emperor Chaosdramon with my unwavering loyalty, my competence, and my unparalleled administrative skills that have kept this kingdom afloat in spite of PrinceMamemon… You see, Hagurumon, I wish to rise through the ranks of the Metal Empire. As a Digimon of steel, this is perfectly possible to do; merit is rewarded in the Metal Empire, is it not? …The limits are endless, especially in a magnificent empire like yours…"

Mercuremon chuckled. "In fact, I am confident that I could successfully poise myself to become Chaosdramon's successor. The ruler of the Metal Empire… Now, wouldn't that be an upgrade?"

"Indeed it would, King Mercuremon," Hagurumon stated neutrally.

Mercuremon smirked. "But… that is far in the future," he stated. "There is still much to do in the present."

"Especially now," Hagurumon responded in agreement.

"That reminds me, the D-Brigade is planning to attack Saversburg, yes?" the shimmering aristocrat wondered.

"Yes, in several days," Hagurumon answered.

"Hmm…" Mercuremon hummed. "The mayor of Saversburg wouldn't be bad either… But, I shouldn't get ahead of myself. There is still an economy to stabilize and generous trade deals with Facture to deal with. I suppose we should get back to work."

"I agree, Mercuremon," the Hagurumon complied.

Mercuremon smirked and quietly thought to himself. "But one day…"

---

Back at Castle Albion, preparations were under way for the journey to Saversburg. The whole Order was busy getting ready for the long trek and potential combat. At the moment, they were unaware of the Metal Empire's plans to attack Saversburg itself.

All of the Royal Knights, the Captains and lower officers, and the soldiers were busy getting ready. This left one Digimon in an odd situation as everybody else prepared.

Dorbickmon paced back and forth in the basement hallway. There was an annoyed scowl on his face, and his rows of jagged teeth could be seen behind his swollen lips. He fidgeted with the bandages that were wrapped around his right hand, occasionally flexing his clawed fingers.

"You really shouldn't agitate that," Examon suggested, walking down the hallway towards him.

Dorbickmon grunted. "Would you stop acting like my mother? You're the one being agitating!" he barked.

Examon stopped and frowned at his words, confused as to what angered Dorbickmon so much. "…Sorry. Did I do something wrong?" the Royal Knight asked, walking up to the mercenary.

Dorbickmon winced and folded his arms, looking away from Examon. "Tch… No... Fuck! I just can't stand this!" he growled in frustration.

The taller dragon looked at Dorbickmon inquiringly. "Can't stand what?" he calmly questioned.

"Being here," Dorbickmon explained. He turned around and looked at Examon. "No offence. It's nice and everything, but I feel… I dunno – trapped. I'm stuck around the castle all the time and I feel like I'm constantly under watch – either from Digimon who don't trust me or from Digimon like you who are constantly looking after me."

Examon rubbed the back of his neck. "Sorry, I didn't know I was being overbearing. I'll try to give you some space," he sheepishly responded.

Dorbickmon released a cross between a sigh and a growl. "I'm just used to being independent. I like being on my own. I don't like needing to depend on people."

The winged dragon nodded. "…I guess I can understand that. When I first joined the Order, I was the same way. I didn't know how to work with other Digimon either," Examon admitted.

"Yeah, well, I'm not planning on joining the Order," Dorbickmon stated decisively. "I just want to get back to doing what I do best: being a merc."

"Well, you can't do that as long as you've got a metaphorical bounty on your head, so the best you can do is wait for it to blow over," Examon responded with a calm, matter-of-fact tone.

Dorbickmon clenched his teeth and scratched the back of his head irritably. "Lucky me…"

Examon placed his clawed hands on his hips. "You should try to relax. Do you always get this annoyed and surly?" he asked, raising an eyebrow curiously.

The red mercenary shot Examon a look. "Yeah. I do," he emphatically responded.

The dragon opposite Dorbickmon nodded in understanding. "I guess that explains the decades long grudge you held against me," Examon mused.

Dorbickmon stared at him blankly. "…Was that a joke?" he asked, his voice sounding like it was on a knife edge.

Examon half-winced and half-smiled with a sheepish expression. "…Sorry. Was it in bad taste?"

"Heh, I'm just surprised you had the balls!" Dorbickmon replied, unable to help but grin. "Maybe there's still hope for you, after all."

"…How come I'm the one who feels insulted here?" Examon muttered.

Dorbickmon let out a laugh. However, after a moment, he flattened out his smile and tried to grow serious again. He nodded over his shoulder, gesturing at Examon to walk with him. When Examon complied, Dorbickmon started walking down the basement corridor.

"So…" Dorbickmon began, glancing over his shoulder to the large dragon Digimon walking a few meters behind him. "Shouldn't you be preparing for… whatever it is you guys are preparing for? A war, I'm guessing?"

"I've finished my personal preparations," Examon explained. "I'm having a short break before I go help the others oversee things." He looked at Dorbickmon. "We're going to Saversburg now that the Metal Empire captured the Mamemon Kingdom."

"Should you be telling me that?" Dorbickmon asked, staring directly at Examon with a serious look in his violet eyes. "Isn't that secret information?"

Examon looked back at him. "It's fine. I trust you," he assured the mercenary.

"You shouldn't," Dorbickmon responded, looking forwards again. He could sense Examon's questioning gaze at the back of his head. "I've lied to you a few times. It's only been like three years since I was trying to kill you. I could take information like that to the Metal Empire…"

Examon furrowed his red brows at Dorbickmon's words. "Would you, though…?" he asked rhetorically. "I thought we were trying to move beyond all that. …Aren't we?"

Dorbickmon folded his arms and looked away. "Yeah…" he muttered. "Still… Don't be naïve, Examon. Even when I was trying to kill you, you took every fake olive branch I offered. If things went differently, I might've deleted you."

"I'm not naïve, Dorbickmon," Examon explained coolly. "I was trying to right a wrong." The Royal Knight sighed and rubbed his arm. "Well, not 'right'… but 'try to make amends for what I did'… I know I don't have the best social skills, but I'm not completely oblivious. I get that you have a certain perception of me and the Royal Knights, but…"

"Look," Dorbickmon awkwardly said as he raised a hand to rub the back of his neck. "I'm not making judgments… I'm just trying to give you some advice. There's worse Digimon than me out there. Just…watch your back. That's all I mean," he explained, not making eye contact.

"I will," Examon replied sincerely. "Thanks…"

"Uh huh…"

The two crimson dragons walked in an uncomfortable silence for a few moments. As they passed the alcove that led to the library, Dorbickmon shuffled along and was quick to break the silence. "So… How does living here compare with the UDC?" he asked, opting for small talk on instinct. "Maybe that's a dumb question. It's pretty comfortable living here."

"It's… different," Examon admitted, frowning to himself as he thought about it. "I don't know how to describe it… When I first joined, I had a lot of trouble adapting. I felt out of place… and not just because I'm a dragon Digimon among a bunch of humanoid Digimon. I was used to being alone… It took awhile, but now I feel like I belong…"

"And the UDC?" Dorbickmon asked

He glanced down as he wandered behind Dorbickmon. "It's funny…" he spoke, although his voice didn't sound all that mirthful. "As I began to feel like I belonged here, I felt increasingly out of place in the United Dramonic Coalition…"

Dorbickmon glanced at him. "Out of place?" he questioned, stopping and leaning against the cool, stone wall of the corridor.

Examon stopped beside him. "I grew up in the UDC, and I was their protector for decades. But now… I feel like they see me differently. They see me as a Royal Knight rather than as a fellow Dramon."

"Does that surprise you? That title carries a lot of clout. Besides, isn't that what the Royal Knights are all about?" Dorbickmon asked with a shrug. "Standing above petty distinctions like borders, species, and where you're from, you know, so that you can save the world and crap?"

"I guess so… Maybe I was naïve after all, thinking that I could join the Royal Knights and have everything stay the same with the UDC." Examon explained wistfully. "They have an army now, instead of me as their protector…"

"If shit went down in the UDC, the Royal Knights would still go to help, right?" Dorbickmon asked rhetorically. "Anywhere in the Digital World, that's the case too. You guys help out all over the place. So, you're still their protector, aren't you? You just don't live there anymore."

Examon smiled a bit. "I guess…"

"Anyway, you're not the only one that doesn't feel at home there," Dorbickmon informed him. "I spend most of my time travelling around the Digital World on mercenary jobs. Even though I'm there a lot, the UDC just isn't home to me anymore."

"Is that because of me?" Examon inquired, feeling a bit guilty. "I mean, because of what happened between us?"

Dorbickmon frowned for a few moments. He thought about the memory. Before long, the unreadable expression turned into a toothy grin. "Look, just because I plotted to kill you in revenge for you nearly deleting me, it doesn't mean that everything I do revolves around you somehow," he bluntly dismissed the idea. "When I was strong enough, I wanted to travel the Digital World and see all the different places for myself. I had a thirst for adventure and excitement. That's probably why I didn't run into you earlier."

Examon chuckled a bit and scratched his cheek sheepishly. "Okay. I guess that's a relief… So, you've been a mercenary for a long time?"

"Yeah. Even went to the eastern continent of Colossus for a year or two, but it wasn't for me, so I came back," Dorbickmon explained. "That, and I had a bad run in with the law over there."

The Royal Knight rolled his eyes. "Why am I not surprised?" he said with a sigh.

"Chill, Examon. I'll play nice for your knight friends while I'm staying here," Dorbickmon said with a smirk. "Wouldn't want to make you look bad."

"It's a bit late for that," Examon responded, smiling. "You didn't exactly make a good first impression."

Dorbickmon grinned and shrugged nonchalantly. "What can I say? I make friends everywhere I go."

"Well… at least you're in a better mood now," Examon pointed out.

Dorbickmon crossed his arms across his muscular, armour-covered chest and leaned against the stone wall. "Guess so," he answered noncommittally. "Anyway, I'll be fine. Maybe I can find somebody to spar against and get it out of my system."

"Heh. Just don't go overboard. I know how passionate you can get," Examon pointed out.

"Maybe I should spar against you," Dorbickmon said with a competitive smirk. "I had you on the ropes last time we fought."

Examon smiled calmly. "I was holding back," he teased.

Dorbickmon scoffed and puffed his chest out. "Like hell you were. By the end of it, you were giving it your all," Dorbickmon insisted.

"Maybe." Examon grinned and looked Dorbickmon's form up and down. "Besides… you can't win. You're too short."

At this, Dorbickmon's eye twitched. "…Short?!" he demanded, standing up from the wall. He walked right up to Examon and placed his chest against the Royal Knight's, surprising Examon with his boldness and indignation. Dorbickmon then stood up as straight as possible, raising his head and tilting his horn up. "…Yeah. I knew it. I'm taller!"

"Y-You are not," Examon insisted, standing up straight as well. On comparison, Examon was taller than Dorbickmon by a few inches. "I'm taller."

"…The horns don't count!" Dorbickmon shouted passionately, putting his body even straighter.

"I wasn't counting the horns," Examon answered steadily, although with a subtle air of smugness that Dorbickmon hated.

"I'm taller, damn it!" Dorbickmon challenged, standing on his toes. "I want an arbitrator!"

Examon chuckled and walked past Dorbickmon, heading down the corridor to the stairway leading up to the first floor. "Are you hungry?" he asked, deciding it was best to end the argument there. "I want to grab some food before I got back to work."

"Yeah, sure. I'll eat you under the table!" Dorbickmon competitively stated, following the dragon Digimon to the cafeteria. "I'll show you I'm taller sitting down too!"

---

Elsewhere in the castle, Magnamon walked down a wide, spacious hallway, decorated with ornate archways and ceiling vaults.

Lanterns hung from chains attached to the ceiling. Each lantern was filled with swirling beads of glowing light, creating a bright radiance that lit up the large hall. High up of the right wall of the passage were several clerestory windows that allowed rays of light to beam in at a diagonal angle. The light caused Magnamon's golden armour to shimmer brilliantly.

At the base of this wall was a long furrow filled with water that spanned the length of the gallery. At equidistant points, there were fountain spouts that poured gently streams of water into the fountain, creating the relaxing sound of pouring water. On the opposite side of the gallery were a few stone benches attached to the wall. There was Digimoji carved into the stone surface of the wall that mentioned the Royal Knights' responsibilities. It spoke of Yggdrasil, the Royal Knights' authority and responsibility for Net security, as well as their obligations towards each other and all Digimon.

This hall was called the Gallery of Reflection, and it was supposed to provide a place for introspection and soul-searching.

Magnamon walked down the stone gallery, gazing at the tranquil water nearby. The soft dribbling sound of the water was interrupted by a pair of metallic footsteps behind him.

"Hey, Magnamon," a deep voice said.

Magnamon looked over his large, shoulder plate to see Craniamon walking up behind him. "Craniamon, hello," Magnamon responded, slowing down so that the larger Royal Knight could catch up with him.

The violet Royal Knight stepped up beside him. "Did you come here to think about something?" he wondered.

"Not really," Magnamon responded. "I was looking for Alphamon, but I do enjoy passing through here."

"Yeah. It's quiet," Craniamon agreed. "Why are you looking for Alphamon?"

"I just need to talk to him about our preparations," Magnamon responded. As the two started walking down the gallery, Magnamon turned to Craniamon inquisitively. "What about you?" he wondered. It was then that Magnamon noticed a piece of paper in Craniamon's hand, prompting him to cock a curious eyebrow. "Is that a letter?"

Craniamon looked away sheepishly. "Uh… Yes," he answered, feeling a bit awkward about it.

Magnamon glanced up at the armour clad Royal Knight. "Who's it from, if you don't mind me asking?" he inquired.

"It's from my father. The mayor of Caer Ygg," Craniamon responded, his movements and voice slightly more rigid than before.

"Oh…" Magnamon answered, although he picked up on Craniamon's subtle change in demeanour. "Is something wrong?"

Craniamon shrugged a bit, initially reluctant to respond. However, he soon sighed behind his helmet. "No. It's just… I never received a letter from him before. Or, the few that I did receive, I didn't open," he replied, his ruby eyes glancing down at the paper. "We didn't have a very good relationship until I went there recently."

"Oh, I see…" Magnamon said understandingly. "What changed?"

"Dynasmon being a meddlesome blockhead," Craniamon responded, although with a tiny grin. "He made me see I was being stubborn and unreasonable. My father and I had a big falling out a long time ago, before I joined the Order. Once I became a Royal Knight, I wanted to put all of that behind me and move on to greater things. I was a Royal Knight, after all…"

Magnamon smiled behind his golden helmet. "We're Royal Knights. We're too important to have families…" he ironically stated, although with an understanding smile. "I… felt the same way, to be honest," Magnamon stated. "Once I had this status, this title, I felt like I had to be the best Digimon I could be. I tried to ignore my issues with my father being a great hero."

Craniamon looked down at Magnamon with interest. "Yeah…?" he pondered curiously. "I didn't know. But I guess I didn't exactly talk about my past either…"

Magnamon nodded. "I came to accept myself eventually, but even today, I still have that desire to be best Digimon I can be, because I am a Royal Knight," he explained. "I guess we both put pressure on ourselves because we're Royal Knights, huh?"

"I guess so…" Craniamon agreed thoughtfully. "It's not like there's anything wrong with wanting to be the best Digimon we can be, though… right?"

"You're right, just as long as we don't let it consume us," Magnamon concurred. "We're Royal Knights, but we don't have to be perfect. We're still Digimon when it comes down to it. We make mistakes, and we have issues sometimes. It's not necessarily a weakness, I don't think…"

"I suppose…" Craniamon responded.

"That said, we are still awesome," Magnamon added with a playful wink.

Craniamon smirked and continued walking along. "I thought that was obvious," he answered confidently.

Magnamon chuckled. "So…" he stated, glancing over at Craniamon's hand. "Did you read it yet?"

"Yeah," Craniamon responded. "It's nothing too big. Just asking about how I am and stuff. I don't really know how to reply though… I'm not the best at writing letters," he admitted.

"I can help you, if you want," Magnamon offered. "I exchange letters with friends and family in Brighthelm all the time."

"I bet most of it is you replying to fan mail," Craniamon teased, glancing at the Knight of Miracles with his gleaming eyes.

Magnamon sheepishly rubbed the back of his head, unable to really deny it. "Not all of it is…" he insisted weakly. "I exchanged letters with my friend Rapidmon a week ago."

Craniamon continued walking. "Well… I guess you can help, if you want," he said to his fellow Royal Knight, although in a way that sounded like he was doing Magnamon a favour. "It's not that I'm bad at it. I just don't know what to say."

Magnamon smiled. "Leave it to me. Although, since we're leaving tomorrow, it may have to wait," he pointed out.

"No rush," Craniamon replied.

As the two Royal Knights continued walking up the Gallery of Reflection, they saw a familiar figure ahead of them. It was Duftmon, who was sitting on one of the stone benches against the wall. He leaned against the back of the bench, his head tilted down as he held a book in his lap. The ends of the red sash around his waist draped over the edge of the chair, and he leaned forwards just enough that his blond hair didn't press against the stone wall. Duftmon's pensive, emerald eyes scanned the pages of the book in his hand.

"Hey, it's Duftmon," Craniamon noted, beginning to head towards the slender Royal Knight.

Magnamon walked beside Craniamon. "Duftmon?" he greeted, announcing their presence. "What are you doing? I thought you'd be busy."

Duftmon tensed up upon hearing Magnamon's voice. He had been concentrating so much on the book that he didn't take notice of them. "Oh…" he said, stalling. Duftmon rose to his feet and closed his book, using one of his fingers as a bookmark. "I have been hard at work all day; I am taking personal time. I did allot some time in my schedule, you realise," he responded indignantly.

"Sorry. I wasn't suggesting that you were slacking off," Magnamon responded diplomatically. He looked down and noticed the book in his hand. "Are you reading?"

"Er… I was, yes," Duftmon responded, his voice obviously cagy. He not-too-subtly hid the book behind his leg.

Both Craniamon and Magnamon picked up on this. "…What are you reading?" Craniamon asked, his curiosity peaked.

"Nothing in particular…" Duftmon defensively replied, concealing the book further. "Now, if you both are finished, you really ought to—"

Craniamon and Magnamon exchanged nods. "By the way, Duftmon, Gankoomon is smoking inside again," Craniamon said to him.

"…What?" Duftmon asked, angrily pulling his arms in front of him. He narrowed his emerald eyes dangerously. "…Does he have no respect for the rules or even common courtesy?"

As Duftmon protested, Magnamon eyed the book in Duftmon's hand. He gave Craniamon another look, wordlessly telling him to continue.

Craniamon noticed Magnamon's gaze and locked eyes with Duftmon. "And he was sitting in your seat at the council table while he did it," he added, knowing exactly how to push Duftmon's buttons. "It looked like he just came in from training SaviorHackmon too."

This tipped Duftmon over the edge. "What?!" he demanded, one of his eyes twitching with incredulous anger. "He's doing what in my seat?!"

"Hey, can I see that?" Magnamon innocently asked as he plucked the book from Duftmon's hand now that the tactician was distracted.

Duftmon tensed up and grabbed for the book. "W- Give that back at once!" he ordered with uncharacteristic distress.

Magnamon dodged the swift grab and tossed the book to Craniamon, who caught the book with ease and used his other arm to block Duftmon from reaching it.

Once Craniamon had the book firmly in his possession, he looked at the cover. The jacket of the book was sky blue in colour. On the cover was a dark blue symbol shaped like the yin yang, but with two sickles branching out on each side. The symbol was the Crest of Friendship. The Digimoji emblazoned across the cover of the book read, 'Twenty Five Tips to Becoming a Better Friend'.

Craniamon's face fractured as he struggled not to burst into laughter. His red eyes lit up with pleasure and he quickly gave the book to Magnamon, who read the cover as well.

"Th-This is…" Magnamon stammered, a look of pure delight appearing on his face.

"You're… reading a self-help book… Duftmon…?" Craniamon asked, pausing between his words to keep his voice from quivering with suppressed laughter.

Duftmon blushed intensely and folded his arms across his chest. He looked away and tilted his head up with utter indignation and embarrassment. "Hmph… So what if I am?" he responded, refusing to acknowledge that it was a big deal.

Magnamon released a laugh and handed the book back to Duftmon as a token of goodwill. "It's adorable, Duftmon!" he stated, his happy crimson eyes suggested a beaming smile beneath his mask.

"It is not," Duftmon protested, snatching the book back and standing up straight in a dignified way. "A true Royal Knight works to improve himself in every area."

Magnamon placed his hands on his hips and smiled at Duftmon. "I'm proud of you! It's good that you're making an effort," he stated, wanting to encourage him rather than make him feel bad about it.

"Hmph. There is nothing to be proud of," Duftmon responded aloofly. "I am simply reading an informative book about social norms and interpersonal relationships. Is that so strange? It is nonfiction."

"A self-help book about friendship," Craniamon made sure to clarify, still wearing a shit-eating grin behind his visor. "I can't believe that you of all Digimon are reading that."

"It is my duty as a Royal Knight to—" Duftmon began stating emphatically.

"Okay, I get it," Craniamon interrupted.

"I merely wish to learn more information," Duftmon continued defensively. "I have been accused of not being sociable in the past. It is not as if I am incapable of taking constructive criticism and learning from mistakes that have been made," he explained firmly, careful not to use any possessive pronouns surrounding the word 'mistakes'. "Ergo, I am reading literature on the pertinent subject matter. No doubt it is highly rated among intellectuals if it is in our library."

Craniamon levelled an unconvinced look at Magnamon. Magnamon rubbed the back of his neck. "Then that's good, Duftmon," he encouraged the tactician. "Keep up the good work."

"Furthermore, this is nobody's business but my own," Duftmon also made sure to say. "Specifically, I do not want you to go around gossiping about it. Is that understood?"

"We won't. We promise," Magnamon assured him with a grin.

"I don't gossip," Craniamon responded, folding his arms.

Duftmon released a haughty huff. "Good. You had better not," he stated. The Royal Knights' tactician proceeded to look at his watch. "And now I am one minute behind schedule. Thank you both very much."

Magnamon chuckled and scratched his cheek with a claw sheepishly. "We're sorry, Duftmon."

"Instead of lollygagging, you two should make yourselves useful," Duftmon stated, beginning to turn around and walk up the gallery to the opposite door.

Craniamon rolled his eyes and began to follow him, along with Magnamon. "We were," he responded. He then muttered. "Maybe you should read that book better."

"I was just looking for Alphamon, actually," Magnamon explained. "Have you seen him?"

"I last saw him outside, speaking with Imperialdramon: Paladin Mode. He said that he was going to address the Strike Forces and Defence Forces about our operation," Duftmon explained.

Magnamon nodded. "Then I'll help him," he stated. "I need to ask him about supplies anyways."

"I've got to go pick up Claiohm Solais and Avalon from the blacksmith's," Craniamon mentioned. "I want them to be in peak fighting condition if we might be headed into a fight."

"I am hoping that Dukemon returns soon," the leopard knight mused. "I must see how his meeting with the Deep Savers went. We will need them for swift transportation with the Locomon temporarily out of commission…"

Magnamon folded his arms across his chest. "It looks like we all have things to do. Let's get to it, Royal Knights," he stated tenaciously.

The three Royal Knights did just that, parting ways as soon as they exited the Gallery of Reflection. There were still many preparations that had to be made for the coming stratagem.

---

Half an hour later, Dukemon returned to Castle Albion. He landed in front of the drawbridge spanning the castle's moat and made his way inside the castle grounds. The crimson and white Royal Knight headed up the large road that formed around the main building of the headquarters. After ten minutes of walking, he strode by the training grounds and made his way to the east side of the castle where the staging area was.

The staging area was a massive, flat courtyard used for the purpose of organizing the various troops, having drills, and as an assembly area. Right now, it was being used to get the Strike Forces and Defence Forces ready for combat. There were hundreds of Digimon gathered there, assembling under the guidance of the captains, leftenants, and a few Royal Knights.

Dukemon could see Alphamon, Magnamon, Ouryumon, and Knightmon clarifying the plan of action to the two primary fighting forces. They talked about how they would make their way up to Saversburg and then gauge the situation from there. The forces would all be ready to move out within the next day or so.

As he made his way up the road, his metal armour rattled with every step. The sky was grey, and pockets of roaming data could be spotted floating within the blanket of clouds. A soft breeze swept across the castle grounds and blew through Dukemon's long, white ponytail and his crimson cape.

Dukemon stopped at the edge of the staging area, not wanting to interrupt. He folded his arms and waited. The red and white Royal Knight had half-expected to see Omegamon there too, but, then again, he knew that Omegamon didn't like speaking up in front of hundreds of Digimon if he could help it.

After a minute, Dukemon sensed a presence behind him. He looked over his armoured shoulder to see Grani gently floating down from the sky and hovering behind him. "Well, if it isn't my favourite Zero ARMS!" Dukemon greeted with an amiable smile.

"Hello, Dukemon," Grani replied. There was a subtle look of levity in his blue eyes. "I wasn't aware that you knew any other Zero ARMS. Should I be worried?"

Dukemon chuckled a bit and turned around. "Oh, you're the only Zero ARMS for me," he playfully stated, placing his hands on his hips. "So, how are the Recon Forces doing?"

"We're all ready to go. Several squadrons will be staying behind with the Castle Guards for normalized patrols around the Free Area, but the majority are ready to head up to Saversburg," the metal bird-dragon explained.

"You're ready to move already? Leave it to you to be so organised, Grani," Dukemon stated with a grin.

"Of course," Grani calmly answered. "Wars require the utmost organisation and management. Even Karatenmon is doing his part."

"Still, we probably won't leave until tomorrow at the earliest," the crimson Royal Knight informed him. "There's still a few things we have to get done first."

Grani nodded. "That gives me time to go over the plans again with my scouts. We will be at the forefront of the operation," he responded.

Dukemon smiled. "Well, it couldn't be in more capable hands… claws… talons," he stated, ending with a sheepish laugh.

Grani rolled his eyes. "Thank you, I think," he spoke. "And what are you doing, Dukemon?"

"Just waiting to talk to Alphamon. I finished speaking to GigaSeadramon of the Deep Savers about getting transport. Four Whamon and one GigaSeadramon are going to transport us up to Breakwater on the east coast of the Republic of Node," Dukemon explained.

"Ah, I see," Grani replied. "That's good."

Dukemon nodded. He then looked around the castle grounds curiously. "Hey, Grani, did you happen to see Omegamon anywhere? I'm looking for him."

"I'm afraid not," Grani informed him. He glanced at Dukemon inquisitively. "Was there a particular reason you were looking for him?"

"Not really. Just wanted to talk to him about the upcoming operation," Dukemon answered.

Grani frowned. "Oh…" he said, with a bit of disappointment.

Dukemon tilted his head and folded his arms across his chrome digizoid-clad chest. "What's with that 'Oh…'?" he asked.

"Didn't you say that you were going to tell Omegamon and the others about what you told Examon?" he wondered.

"I will… Eventually," Dukemon responded noncommittally.

Grani sighed. "You're procrastinating. Again."

"We're in the middle of a war, Grani. And I was a bit busy getting taken prisoner. There's more important things going on right now than my issues," Dukemon reminded him. "Besides, it's kind of a weird thing to say out of nowhere. 'Hey, guys. You know the Digital Hazard I have? Well, one time I nearly caused a total collapse of the Digital World! Crazy, huh?'"

Grani shot him a dry look. "It's a start…" he answered. "At this rate, you'll just put it off. Examon reacted understandingly, didn't he?"

"Yeah, but why do I even need to? It was a long time ago and if I say anything, the others will just look at me differently," Dukemon muttered, narrowing his eyes bitterly.

"Because if you don't, you'll just keep thinking that," Grani explained. "You pretend it's not a big deal, but if it isn't a big deal then why are you so averse to telling your closest friends?" The Zero ARMS floated up to eye level with Dukemon. "You need to get this off of your chest and prove yourself wrong, Dukemon. I know that you worry about this more than you let on."

Dukemon winced and looked away from Grani. He hated to admit it, but he knew his rationally-minded friend had a point. "…I'll do it after this thing with the Metal Empire is finished with," he responded to the Zero ARMS.

Grani frowned. "Do you promise?" he asked him, not wanting Dukemon to just put it off again.

Dukemon sighed but looked into Grani's calm, sapphire eyes. "Yeah, I promise…" he answered sincerely.

The red-bodied Zero ARMS closed his eyes with a mixture of relief and thought. "Thank you. Very well, then…"

The holy knight Digimon nodded and rubbed the back of his head. "Yeah… Anyway… So-"

"Dukemon! Grani!" a familiar voice called out from behind the pair.

Dukemon and Grani both turned and looked down the road. They both saw Karatenmon suddenly appear in mid air several meters away from them.

Karatenmon flapped his broad, jet black wings and gently descended towards them. As he landed, the strong buffeting of his wings blew up dirt from the ground. The corvid spymaster touched his talons down onto the stone road and looked at Dukemon and Grani with a serious expression in his red eyes.

Grani frowned, always finding it strange whenever Karatenmon took something seriously. "Karatenmon? What's wrong?" he wondered.

"I have news," the crow man answered, holding up a scroll. He looked past Dukemon and towards the staging area where Alphamon was. "I was going to tell Alphamon first, but since you're here, I'd might as well tell you two as well."

Dukemon lowered his gaze and looked at Karatenmon seriously. "What is it, Karatenmon?"

Karatenmon opened up the scroll to reveal a long message written in Digimoji. "It's big…" Karatenmon stated. "One of my spies confirmed with scouts in the Saversburg military. It seems like the D-Brigade is launching a surprise invasion of Saversburg…"

Dukemon's eyes widened as he read the message written in the scroll. "What?!"

Grani was stunned. He looked at Karatenmon incredulously. "Are you positive? Are you sure your spy got it right?" he asked him.

Karatenmon matched his gaze with Grani. "I'm positive, Grani," he said, leaving no room for doubt in his voice.

"Captain Grani, Sir!" a high-pitched, androgynous voice called out.

Grani looked up to see the golden, jet-like form of Sparrowmon zooming over to them. "Sparrowmon?" he asked, recognizing his subordinate.

"It's really important, Sir! It's massive information!" Sparrowmon declared, panting and obviously out of breath. "It's the Metal Empire! They're amassing their army in the northwest to Saversburg! Our patrol spotted them several hours ago and it looks like they're going to invade!"

Grani frowned at having this news confirmed. "So it is true…"

Karatenmon nodded. "One hundred percent," he answered. The avian ninja looked at Dukemon who was still reading the message. "Dukemon?"

Dukemon clenched his fist tightly. "This is bad," he spoke, a look of resolve and determination forming in his eyes. "We have to stop them… We need to stop the Metal Empire once and for all. They're a threat to network security and the Digital World."

The Royal Knight rolled up the scroll and turned around, running towards the staging grounds where Alphamon and Magnamon still were talking to the Order troops. "Come on!" he said to the others, dashing across the courtyard. "We need to tell Alphamon!"

---

Later that day, things were progressing quickly in the area to the north west of the free city of Saversburg. The vast majority of the D-Brigade forces had crossed the wide, sturdy bridge linking Saversburg to the Mamemon Kingdom. They had created a temporary military base on the Saversburg side of the bridge in order to secure the strategic position.

By this time, Saversburg and its military was fully aware of the Metal Empire's presence in their territory. The military was making speedy preparations to defend the free city from what appeared to be an imminent invasion.

At the outskirts of the massive city of Saversburg was a military base, positioned outside so that it wouldn't be in the way of the busy city. The base had several buildings and a large training ground on the grassy fields, allowing for lots of room for the army to train and manoeuvre. Currently, the base was bustling as the military scrambled to get ready for war.

General Tactimon strode out of the base, gripping his giant, sheathed sword, Jutetsufujin-maru, in one hand, and reading a long, opened scroll which hung from his other hand. He stepped out of the guarded gate leading into the base itself and walked out onto the stone road. This path connected onto the road that led into Saversburg from one direction, and stretched out into the distance.

His black cape flowed behind him as he walked, rippling in the breeze. He didn't take his eyes off the scroll as he made his way down the road at a brisk pace.

"Tactimon," a voice said from in front of him.

Tactimon looked up and saw Gaioumon walking towards him, heading up the road from Saversburg. Gaioumon was one of the Digimon who was part of the Dark Area Strategy group that had assembled in Xuanwumon University. Due to his bad history with the Warrior Ten, there was some tension with between him, AncientGarurumon and Anubismon (otherwise known as AncientSphinxmon) but Gaioumon brought a lot of strategic insight to the table that was valuable for the group.

Tactimon had been overseeing the Dark Area discussion when a messenger came in and told him about the threat. A few of the attendees, including Gaioumon, had overheard. However, the session went on for awhile even after Tactimon was forced to leave to attend to the developing crisis.

"Gaioumon," Tactimon greeted, rolling up the scroll and walking up to him. "I take it you already know what's going on…"

"Is it true that the D-Brigade has entered your territory?" Gaioumon asked him inquisitively.

"Yes… The guards that were stationed at the bridge haven't replied and there were reports of fighting earlier. This is a declaration of war on Saversburg," Tactimon said with narrowed, yellow eyes. "Do you think it's because we attacked them when they were fighting you and the Royal Knights?"

"It's possible… Or it could be because Chaosdramon has gotten a taste for conquest," Gaioumon mused. "He saw how easy it was to take the Mamemon Kingdom, so it could be that he feels emboldened by the victory. Saversburg is an alluring prize, after all… No matter the case, he will undoubtedly use the attack as a pretext."

Tactimon nodded and placed the scroll under his belt before shouldering the Jutetsufujin-maru. "What will you do?" he asked. "The Council of Seven will undoubtedly want to know about this…"

Gaioumon closed his eyes and thought about his question. "Indeed… I must take my leave and return to New Terminal in light of this information," he responded. "I have done all I can to help out with the Dark Area problem, anyways. We have a plan; all that is left is figuring out the precise details. That is not my area of expertise. I will leave that to the experts and those who actually have the power and clearance to modify the security data of the Dark Area's barrier – like Imperialdramon Paladin Mode and the Four Holy Beasts, for example."

"I understand. I have to focus on the coming war right now as well. The rest comes after," Tactimon replied, nodding in acknowledgment. He looked at Gaioumon carefully. "The Republic of Node… Can we expect your assistance? I know it's a lot to ask, but I wouldn't consider such a question if I wasn't desperate. I don't have the exact numbers, but I suspect we are outnumbered. I know it isn't as simple as 'yes' or 'no', but any help we can get… would go appreciated."

"I am not in the position to make that kind of promise. I apologise," Gaioumon said with a dignified, apologetic bow. "However… a powerful, aggressive Metal Empire would be a worry for the Republic of Node. They would not take kindly to Saversburg, one of our closest allies and trading partners, being taken over." Gaioumon gave Tactimon a subtle look that conveyed his meaning. "And what is not far south of Saversburg? The Republic of Node, of course…"

"So, you think that they might…" Tactimon spoke, his words trailing off as he thought.

"I can't say for certain… I can't say how many soldiers they might send if they agree to go to war. I can't make any promises to you, Tactimon," Gaioumon stated. "However, I will do my best as their advisor to lead them to what I think is the best decision."

Tactimon nodded. "I understand," he answered, reading the dragon samurai carefully. "Thank you."

Gaioumon glanced at him, his white hair flowing in the breeze. "In the meantime, I suspect that you will have the Royal Knights fighting on your side. That should help to even the odds," he stated. He smiled faintly. "And I doubt that AncientGreymon of the Warrior Ten will sit idly by as a tyrant invades Saversburg."

Tactimon continued his piercing gaze, which tried to get beneath Gaioumon's icy, impenetrable exterior and dig out the information that he concealed to himself. "And if the Republic of Node did help us, could we expect your personal help?"

"Perhaps," Gaioumon offered. "I am a warrior as well as an advisor and tactician."

"And is that okay, with the Warrior Ten potentially there?" Tactimon prodded. "I can't have you fighting each other over whatever history you have with them. I don't need a battle within a battle, especially not one where the stakes are so high."

Gaioumon smiled knowingly behind his helmet. "I am a professional, Tactimon… I will not involve myself with the Warrior Ten or KaiserGreymon. Rather, you don't have to worry about me stabbing them in the back. That's what you are thinking, isn't it…?"

Tactimon gave him a look. "You can't blame me for making sure… I know how volatile some of their personalities are… and your past precedes you. I have to account for everything."

"No, I understand. Don't worry. I will behave myself," Gaioumon assured him. He bowed before Tactimon. "And now I must return to New Terminal. I wish you luck, Tactimon." When he rose again, he offered his hand. "Do your best, and I shall do mine."

Tactimon nodded and shook his hand firmly. "I appreciate it, Gaioumon," he responded.

Before turning around, Gaioumon nodded behind Tactimon. "I believe that's for you," he pointed out, eyeing into the distance. Gaioumon then began making his way back into Saversburg for his journey back to New Terminal.

Tactimon turned around and saw a Digimon running towards him. It was a beast man Digimon, jogging on two, canine legs. His face was that of a wolf, surrounded by an orange mane and accentuated by a drill-shaped horn coming from the visor on his forehead. His body was clad with thick, metal armour that shimmered in the faint light. Over one of his metal hands was a shield armed with three, sharp claws on the bottom. In the other was a long, drill-like lance. As the JagerDorulumon jogged towards Tactimon, his white and orange cape flapped behind him, and his long orange hair blew in the breeze.

"Tactimon, Sir!" JagerDorulumon called out, running up to him from the grassy field.

"JagerDorulumon," Tactimon said to his second-in-command as the beast warrior came to a stop in front of him.

JagerDorulumon stopped to catch his breath, panting for a few moments before standing up straight and composing himself. "General," he greeted, saluting. "I've spoken to our scouts."

"Good. What did they find?" the demon tactician asked. "How large of an enemy force are we dealing with?"

"It isn't good, Tactimon," JagerDorulumon explained, a grimace forming on his face. "It seems to be most of the D-Brigade. There's over ten thousand… Plus, there are probably more back in Haganemame City and Facture."

Tactimon narrowed his eyes and stroked his chin with his thumb and index finger. "I see… We don't even have half that many soldiers," he responded. "Where are they? What are they doing right now?"

"Currently, they've set up camp at the bridge fifteen kilometers to the northwest of the city. They seem to be consolidating their position and protecting their supply line while they prepare to invade," the beast knight informed him.

"I see… I doubt they'll wait more than a couple days. We're probably lucky that they're playing smart and not rushing to attack. That gives us a bit more time to prepare," Tactimon mused, turning in the direction that JagerDorulumon described.

"And gather allies," JagerDorulumon suggested. "I think we'll need them. We can't stand against the strength of the D-Brigade alone."

Tactimon sighed and looked away from his second on command, staring into the distance. "I hate to admit it, but you're probably right. Even with the best tactics, it would be hard to make the most of them with our numerical disadvantage," he conceded.

"All three of the Storm Commanders are there. And scouts reported seeing Chaosdramon himself arriving just a few minutes ago," the orange wolf man added.

At this, Tactimon frowned. His mind worked quickly. "Emperor Chaosdramon…? What's he doing there?" he asked. "It couldn't be that he…" Tactimon trailed off.

The black armoured demon man looked at JagerDorulumon. "Get someone to send for General Blastmon. I need to talk to him about our defences. And also send a messenger down to the Royal Knights. If we're going to defend Saversburg, we're going to need them and soon."

"Yes, Tactimon," JagerDorulumon complied, racing off towards the military base.

Tactimon watched him run off. After a few moments, Tactimon narrowed his eyes and tightly gripped the Jutetsufujin-maru as he bitterly cursed the situation.

"Duftmon, you and the Royal Knights had better show up to help us. If there was ever a time that we needed your assistance, it's now. Do not let me down…"

---

The three Storm Commanders were busy organizing the D-Brigade. They were preparing most of the forces for the coming attack in a few days time. Before they could invade Saversburg, they needed to make their tactics and arrange the D-Brigade accordingly, as well as secure their position in case the Saversburg army tried to drive them off first.

D-Brigade scouts constantly patrolled their perimeter, as well as venturing deeper towards the city itself. Any activity from Saversburg was to be reported immediately. There was a degree of tension after their scouts had been mysteriously attacked that morning.

Presently, Raijinmon, Suijinmon, and Fujinmon were in a large, makeshift tent, going over tactics.

"So, you want to approach from this direction?" Raijinmon asked, looking at a map of Saversburg, leading his finger down across the terrain along the western part of the map.

"Yes," Suijinmon responded. "The north is too hilly for our mechanized Digimon. It would be ideal if we advanced down this road and then onto level terrain."

"I suppose that's fine, but it's a little predictable," Fujinmon mused.

"Predictable is acceptable sometimes, as long as we have the strength and discipline to back it up," Suijinmon explained. "Besides, they already know we are here, considering how they wiped out our advance patrol. We've already lost the element of surprise."

Raijinmon nodded and placed his metal hands on his hips. "And you expect that the Saversburg army will come out to meet us?"

"I believe so. I don't think they would want to risk the city. However, Tactimon is said to be a good general. He may have some tricks ready," Suijinmon droned. "What I would like to do is—"

"Excuse me, Commander?" a voice said from outside the tent.

The flap of the tent opened and the gear-shaped body of a Hagurumon floated in cautiously. "My apologies. Am I interrupting?"

"It is fine," Suijinmon told the child-level machine Digimon. "Do you have something to report?"

"Yes. Sort of," Hagurumon replied, saluting with his cog arm. "His Highness, Emperor Chaosdramon has arrived at the camp. He wishes to speak with the three of you."

Raijinmon blinked with surprise. "He's here at the base?" he said, perplexed at the news.

Fujinmon frowned. "That's unusual…" he muttered.

Suijinmon turned around. "Then we must meet him. Thank you, Hagurumon," Suijinmon spoke, walking outside of the tent to find Chaosdramon.

When the red machine Digimon lumbered out of the tent, Fujinmon leaned in towards the Thunderclap Commander. "Hey, Raijinmon… What do you think Chaosdramon wants? This is strange, isn't it?" he asked his comrade.

Raijinmon closed his eyes and folded his arms in thought. "It is, a bit… Maybe he just wants to see how things are going. Although he typically trusts military matters to us…"

"I wonder how much he really trusts us," Fujinmon whispered.

Raijinmon shot Fujinmon a look of warning. "You should put those thoughts out of your mind, Fujinmon," he advised the emerald armoured cyborg firmly. "Suijinmon is already suspicious of you for saying things like that. All it takes is one careless word and you could end up in trouble. Don't let that happen."

Fujinmon scoffed and straightened himself up with dignity. "It was just idle talk," he answered bitterly.

The gold cyborg sighed and began walking. "Come on, Fujinmon," he told him. "Let's catch up with Suijinmon."

There was a shimmer of passion in Fujinmon's narrowed, gold eyes as he followed Raijinmon out of the tent. However, he closed them and composed himself before striding up beside the Thunderclap Commander.

Suijinmon was several meters ahead of them, making his way through the military camp constructed on the riverbank. There were D-Brigade soldiers all around. The unmistakeable, colossal, crimson body of Chaosdramon could be seen near the bridge, surveying his D-Brigade carefully.

As the three Storm Commanders made their way towards the bridge, the draconic body of a Darkdramon flew down from the sky and touched down beside the three commanders. He saluted and turned to Fujinmon. "Commander Fujinmon."

Fujinmon gave a vertical salute with his Critical Arm. "How are the Special Recon Task Forces doing?" he asked his subordinate.

"They secured that strategic hill where we were attacked from," the Darkdramon officer replied. "They are now engaging in zone reconnaissance. There seems to be some activity from the Saversburg military, but we don't have to worry about them attacking us yet. Mostly scouts checking us out."

Fujinmon nodded. "Good. Keep an eye on them and let me know if anything changes."

"Sir," Darkdramon spoke, beginning to turn around and intensifying the spread of his white wings.

"Oh, and Darkdramon. Meet me later in the evening. There is something I want to talk to you about," Fujinmon added.

"Yes sir," Darkdramon complied, sweeping his effervescent wings out and shooting back into the sky.

Raijinmon looked at Fujinmon curiously. "What's that about?" he wondered.

"Just reviewing overnight patrols," Fujinmon answered, walking ahead of the two.

"Good thinking. That makes sense," Suijinmon agreed, plodding after the slender, green cyborg Digimon.

Raijinmon followed after them at a leisurely pace, folding his arms behind his back and observing the D-Brigade Digimon around the camp. His eyes kept going back to the large, red, lustrous emperor who had showed up suddenly. He kept wondering why. He couldn't help but wonder if Fujinmon was right.

They approached the river bank next to the rushing water. Emperor Chaosdramon was there, standing at the base of the bridge. The bridge was constructed of sturdy metal that arched over the tempestuous Champion River. It showed the impressive skill of Saversburg architects that they were able to build a bridge to support Digimon as heavy as a Chaosdramon or Deckerdramon.

Chaosdramon loomed over the whole campsite. His presence and gravitas was as heavy as his actual weight. As he watched the D-Brigade work, he stood on the stone road, unable to move onto the soft riverbank without sinking into the relatively soft ground. He walked up the road upon seeing his three Storm Commander approaching him.

"Your Majesty," Suijinmon spoke, slowly coming to a stop and bowing his head in respect.

Fujinmon and Raijinmon stopped beside the massive Waterfall Commander and bowed as well.

Chaosdramon raised his vice-like claws. "At ease, Commanders," he told them, allowing the three to relax.

"Emperor," Raijinmon spoke, standing up straight again. "What are you doing here?"

"We were unaware that you were coming," Fujinmon agreed. "We thought you were organising things back in Haganemame City."

"I was. I decided to come here," Chaosdramon rumbled in a deep, breathy reverberation. He stared at them with his cold, crimson eyes. "My presence doesn't cause a problem, does it?"

"Of course not, Your Highness," Suijinmon insisted. "Was there a particular reason that you wanted to visit us?"

"Yes…" Chaosdramon spoke, his intimidating whisper melding into a hiss of steam escaping the vents on his giant, metal backpack. "I have decided… I am going to personally oversee this invasion."

Raijinmon took a step forward. "W-What? You want to… what?" he asked incredulously, but trying his best to choose his words carefully.

Fujinmon's eyes widened, but his look of surprise swiftly changed. He closed his eyes calmly and seemed to passively accept the development.

Suijinmon frowned with both shock and scepticism at this idea. "Your majesty…? But…" He stalled, finding himself having trouble speaking against his superior. "In what capacity?" he asked, deciding to give a neutral response.

"I intend to invoke my martial powers – as the Chief Commander of the D-Brigade," Chaosdramon stated firmly. "I am the supreme head of the D-Brigade, if you recall. I am not just the ruler of the Metal Empire."

"O-Of course, Emperor Chaosdramon…" Raijinmon spoke, frowning pensively at his choice of words. It was as if Chaosdramon wanted to remind them that the D-Brigade didn't belong to the Storm Commanders, even if they did most of the work.

"But, Your Majesty…" Suijinmon dared to speak up. "You know that you can leave the invasion to us, correct? We will not disappoint you."

"I never implied that you would, Suijinmon," Chaosdramon answered, turning his imposing gaze to the comparatively smaller, red, machine Digimon. "However, this is my decision. Our invasion of Saversburg marks a new era in Metal Empire's history. I will not be the one who sits around on his throne while his subordinates do all of the work. I will not rest on my laurels. I will be the one who leads the Metal Empire to victory and prosperity… with my own claws." He narrowed his blood red eyes. "I am the Metal Empire. I will make everybody remember what I am capable of."

"B-But it is dangerous, Your Majesty," Suijinmon protested.

Chaosdramon shot Suijinmon a look. "I was a soldier once. I became an officer in the D-Brigade thanks to my skills. Do not underestimate my sheer power and efficiency, Suijinmon. It wasn't just my intelligence that allowed me to overthrow JumboGamemon. It also needed my skill and muscle."

Suijinmon winced. "Yes, Emperor, I know, but if what if something were to happen to you?"

The blood-hued eyes of the emperor narrowed. "And just what would happen to me?" he challenged.

Suijinmon decided to stay quiet. He didn't dare dispute Chaosdramon any further. "…Nothing. I apologise, Your Majesty…"

"Good…" Chaosdramon stated. He turned and looked at Fujinmon. "Do you have any objections, Fujinmon?" he tested the Hurricane Commander.

Fujinmon opened his eyes and looked up at Chaosdramon serenely. "None at all, Emperor. If this is what you wish, then you are more than welcome to lead the D-Brigade, as is your prerogative…" he answered cordially.

Chaosdramon nodded before looking at Raijinmon. "Raijinmon?"

Raijinmon straightened up and folded his arms behind him in his usual posture. "Of course. We are lucky to have your experience aiding us in battle," he agreed.

"Yes, Your Majesty…" Suijinmon murmured, not wanting to challenge Chaosdramon, but worrying about his emperor's safety.

"Good," Chaosdramon rumbled. He moved around on his heavy, half-organic legs, turning towards the thousands of soldiers around the large camp. "How is the state of the D-Brigade?"

"At peak operating capacity," Raijinmon assured him. "We will be ready in a few days at the latest."

"And Saversburg?" Chaosdramon asked. "I spoke to some of the officers when I first arrived. Apparently one of our patrols has been wiped out?"

"Yes…" Suijinmon answered.

"Then they attacked us first. That gives us all of the justification we need to respond with crushing force," Chaosdramon declared. After a moment, Chaosdramon shook his head. "No… Our strength is the only justification that we need. No more playing politics with other states. No more compromising and putting up a front. I am a general, not a politician. …Politics… That fleeting moment in the history of the Digital World is soon coming to an end."

Fujinmon looked at Chaosdramon suspiciously. "Crushing force?" he inquired for confirmation.

"Yes, we will annihilate their army," the monumental cyborg explained. "And when the Royal Knights show up, we will destroy them too. They are too dangerous to leave alive. With them gone, order will be in our total control. It will be the intelligence, strength, and discipline of the Metal Empire that creates a new world order."

"Yes, Emperor…" Raijinmon spoke, although the words lingered in his throat.

"You can rely on us, Emperor," Fujinmon stated.

"Good," Chaosdramon spoke, turning forwards. He began to walk up the road, further into the military camp. "Suijinmon, give me a complete run down on the situation. This way."

"Yes, Your Majesty," Suijinmon obeyed, lumbering after him.

Fujinmon watched as the two ruby-coloured machines walked off. He waited several moments before turning to Raijinmon. "That was strange, wasn't it?" he asked his comrade.

Raijinmon frowned with thought. "I suppose it was…" he couldn't help but agree.

Fujinmon leaned in towards the medium-sized Thunderclap Commander. "You know what that was about, don't you?" he said to Raijinmon. "That was the Emperor asserting his authority over the D-Brigade. Without explicitly saying it, he was telling us that 'the D-Brigade is loyal to me, not you.'"

"What?" Raijinmon asked, looking at Fujinmon. "He wouldn't be so bold. You would think that he would trust his best subordinates."

"Don't you think he's been acting strangely lately?" Fujinmon questioned. "It's clear that he's starting to distrust us." Fujinmon levelled his calm, golden eyes on Raijinmon. "First, he assassinates JumboGamemon without telling us… Then he starts invading our neighbours, completely reversing our long standing, guiding principle of isolation. It's been ages since we've expanded our empire outwards, and we've never done so with such blatant aggression. I wonder… that attack on Facture… was it really from the outside? Perhaps the Emperor wanted a pretext to begin these invasions. All of this is far too calculated…"

Raijinmon narrowed his eyes. "Watch what you say, Fujinmon. You are speaking treasonously…" he warned him in a harsh whisper.

Fujinmon challenged Raijinmon's glare with his own. "So tell somebody. Arrest me yourself if you disagree with what I'm saying. You know that what I'm saying isn't unreasonable. You're a smart Digimon, Raijinmon," he fired back in a hushed voice.

The electric commander winced and turned his gaze away. "I agree that he's been acting differently in the way that you say… But saying that he planned all of this from the start may be a stretch," he reasoned.

"Even so… It's clear that he doesn't trust us anymore," Fujinmon explained. "Not even Suijinmon, who is as loyal as a Gabumon. I mean… Chaosdramon came to check on us in Haganemame City, and now he wants to conduct this campaign personally. It's clear that he's trying to undermine us."

Raijinmon closed his eyes. "Perhaps… I'm not sure…" he spoke, his uneasiness obvious in his voice. "Even so, he is our Emperor. All we can do is obey him and prove our loyalty and competence on the battlefield."

"That is only a short term solution, is it not?" Fujinmon asked rhetorically. "Distrust only grows with time. We need to start thinking about a way to protect ourselves…"

Raijinmon turned away from Fujinmon. He was quiet for a few moments before replying. "…We'll see…" he answered noncommittally. The Thunderclap Commander turned ninety degrees to look at Fujinmon behind him. "Fujinmon, because you're my friend, I won't breathe a word of this conversation to anybody."

Fujinmon closed his eyes and sighed softly. "I appreciate that, Raijinmon… Just don't dismiss what I'm saying out of hand… Think about it. One of your greatest qualities is your open mind. Use it, and you can become one of the greatest Digimon in Digital World history."

Raijinmon stalled. After a few seconds of thought, he quietly turned away from Fujinmon and began walking away from the riverbank and the bridge. Raijinmon walked into the D-Brigade camp and went back to preparing his forces for the battle to come.

As his friend walked away, Fujinmon rose his head and looked up into the sky with what would amount to a smile of satisfaction. "This is it, Chaosdramon… This is my opportunity. After years and years of debasing myself before you, I will finally get my satisfaction."

"I will be the one who brings your reign of terror to an end, you damn tyrant…"