Digimon Rumble Arena:Archives

by Corpse King

The Tamers are once again pulled into the Digital World, which is in a state of madness. But not everyone is happy about returning. Knights, mysterious crests, dark powers, and family issues to reflect on, this is sure to be an adventure to remember. But are the Tamers up to it? Or have they finally met their match?

Corpse King/Shikabane-O

7/1/2024

For images of the Digimon I have created for this story, go to deviantart and look under the name Shikabane-O.

Digimon Rumble Arena: Archives

Chapter 1:

The scene opens with Shakamon floating a few inches off the ground in a grey room riddled with patterns similar to the ones you might see on a computers motherboard. lights course through them every few seconds. (Digimon Rumble Arena: Mecha Factory plays quietly)

Shakamon: Namaskaram and greetings. Who am I, you ask? Hnm Hnm, we will get to that a little bit later. For now, let me tell you a little about this room. Anything and everything that occurs in the confines of digital space is recorded and cataloged here. This is the Hall of Memory, found within the Internets Central Hub. But, I am getting ahead of myself. You may not be aware, but did you know that there is a whole nother universe, right inside of your computer? No, I am not joking, I promise you this. It is quite real,in fact, it is as real as the very world you live in. Who lives there? why, there are thousands of unique and fantastical creatures that live there on your Internet called Digital Monsters or "Digimon" for short. On occasion, such as when the Digital World and the Real World are in danger, certain "Special" humans are chosen. These chosen few are partnered with Digimon, forging lasting bonds with them as they embark on their journey together. Watching from afar, I have followed many such chosen ones: Digi-destined, Tamers, Data Squad, and Xros Heart through many adventures. Oh, you want to hear about them you say?

He waves a finger towards himself and a shiny white book, which resembles a laptop, comes over to him, floating just above his lap. With a wave of his hand the book opens.

Shakamon: Then I shall read to you of one of the-Tamers adventures. It is not as filled with action as some of the others, but it is one of my favorites. I am Shakamon, and this is one of many stories involving humans who work along side Digimon, which we've come to call- "Digimon Archives".

Takato: I know I said "Then nothing really happened after that" and "nothing we couldn't put down in a day or two", I mean, it makes for a really good ending, doesn't it? Wraps eveything up in a neat little bow? But that's just not how life happens; anyway, I meant it when I said it, but, that was before this happened...

Small yellow particles rain down from the sky, touching down in a lush green field to form three children. This field is directly across from a forest of tall trees. Takato, Henry, and Rika slowly descend to the ground. Looking first at their own hands, then their chests, and finally their legs. Each member of the trio looks from one to the other, their eyes filled with awe. The two boys smile from ear to ear, letting out excited laughs.

Takato: Wow, I can't believe we're finally back! And just look at us! I mean w-we're-!

Henry: I know, it's been a long time since I last felt like this...

Takato: How long do you think it's been?

Henry: Don't know. But it feels like it's been ages since we-

Henry and takato then look to Rika, who is the only one who does not look excited. Instead, she remains completely silent on one knee, her brows crinkled slightly from concentration. She simply keeps looking at her hand, flipping it slowly back and forth. Her two friends immediately recognize the problem.

Rika: But-why?

Takato: Rika, are you going to be alright with this? With being back-here?

Rika: Don't.

There is no anger in her voice, only a mild sternness. A kind of "Don't go there, I don't want to talk about it" tone.

Henry: Listen, we know you haven't been back to the Digital World ever since-

Rika: I said-don't. Don't worry about me, I'm fine.

Just then, Rika finally does smile. The two boys turn their heads to look in the direction she is facing and spot three familiar faces come out of the woods.

Rika: Renamon.

Takato: Guilmon!

Henry: And Terriermon!

Terriermon: Wow, Henry, you're looking good! Sure your not part Digimon?!

Each Digimon runs into the arms of their human counter part. Terriermon lands on Henry's shoulder, hugging him more with his ears than his hands.

Henry: What, this? Nah, just some lotions and hair dye.

Takato almost falls backward when Guilmo hugs him. But he laughs just the same.

Guilmon: Is something wrong, Takato? You look a lot different than last time I saw you.

Takato: So you noticed too, huh?

Guilmon looks like a curious child, tilting his head repeatedly. Rika and Renamon walk toward each other much slower and more dignified.

Renamon: Rika I-

Rika leans forward and pulls her into a tight hug, burying the side of her face into her fur.

Rika: I've missed you, Renamon.

She smiles brightly with her eyes shut. Renamon, while hesitating at first, slowly puts her arms around her, taken aback by Rika's sudden open show affection. Rika pulls away slowly.

Rika: But... why were we brought here?

Renamon looks at her human partner with a bit of a confused expression.

Takato: Yeah, do you know anything, Guilmon?

Terriermon: You mean, you guys don't know?! Did you guys even look at the place when you came here?!

The camera zooms out, showing the Digital World for what it is, a loosely sewn together realm ruled by madness and confusion. While there still is a "Main" world, it is riddled with tears, most of the sky is wavy, reminiscent of oil and water. In certain places you can just walk right over the boundry line and into a completely different dimension. Some of the said dimensions are nothing but empty pockets of wire frames. Real world objects, most huge and mid-sized, others small, are scattered across the world, giving even more of a ridiculous quality.

Renamon: It did this.

Takato: Who's it?

Suddenly, a huge eldritch entity comes storming passed through the forest towards a small village which immediately lets loose a barrage of attacks . It is a truly enormous monster, orange in color, and made of hundreds upon thousands of hands. This strange quality gives it a bit of an Evangelion vibe, not dissimilar to the "Angel" Lilith. Screams can be heard as the villlage disappears in puffs of smoke and fire. The children ball their fist, ready for a fight.

Maitreyamon: It is Srivatsamon. It is the reason I brought you here.

All: Maitreyamon!

The rotund Buddha floats above, glowing like gold.

Takato: You brought us here?

Maitreyamon: We must speak.

Henry: There will be enough time for that later.

Maitreyamon: Please understand, the matter of which I speak is urgent-

Takato: Regardless, we can't just stand here, we have to do something!

Rika: Let's do this, Renamon!

Henry: You too, Terriermon, let's go!

Takato: We got this, Guilmon!

The three look away from their human friends with a mixture of shame and sadness.

Renamon: We can't.

Takato: Wha-?

Maitreyamon: They have come to know the truth full too well, even if you were to Super Mega Digivolve, you would not be able to kill it.

Takato: But-how can that be?!

Rika: Nothing is unbeatable!

Renamon: Rika, it is true.

Terriermon: Even the gods of the Digital World weren't able to scratch it.

Guilmon: I know it's hard, but you have to let it go. Listen to what Maitreyamon has to say, he knows how we can beat him. But you have to listen!

The massive creature disappears into a rift which has opened on the other side of what used to be the village. The childrens fists deball and they untense, looking upset that they were unable to help the Digimon.

Maitreyamon: First, as I am sure you are aware, the bodies you once possessed as children have been returned to you.

Terriermon: No Kidding, Henry looks like he belongs in diapers!

Henry: Thanks, Terriermon.

Henry says, with obvious sarcasm.

Renamon: Yes, it was surprising to see Rika again, like this.

Guilmon: I don't care what Takato looks like, as long as he's Takato!

Maitreyamon: The Digital World is in a state of madness. This is caused by Srivatsamon's very existence. And, yes, your current-state-would seem to be caused by it. In your natural forms, each of you would be approximately 56 years of age. However, there is a sliver lining, this madness has also connected the Servers, the entire Digital World has essentially become one. I will explain shortly how this is to your benefit.

Guilmon: So, does that mean, Takato and them are going to return to normal?

Maitreyamon: When all is said and done, yes. They will return to their true forms.

Takato: Aw man, and here I was hoping this would be permanent. Nothing good lasts for ever, I guess.

Henry: Hey, at least you don't need to explain this to Jeri.

Takato: Yeah. But I'm sure gonna miss having all this energy.

He says with his hands on his hips and his eyes closed.

Rika: So, about what you said earlier, this isn't "our" Server then? Renamon is right there. I thought this was the same one we visited before.

A quick succession of memories who Meramon being killed, facing Behemoth in the desert, the Four Sovereigns and flying home in the Ark.

Maitreyamon: You are currently on another Server. Your friends came here using one of the many rifts you see before you.

Takato: Can a single digimon really do all this? I mean, I know, Mikaboshimon, Crownmon, and all that, but, this just seems-kind of different. Where did it even come from?

Maitreyamon: (Exhale) Srivatsamon appeared almost 9 years ago-

Henry: Nine years ago? Then why did you wait until now to bring us here?

Rika: And why did it have to be us?

She doesn't quite yell it, and she had tried to hide it, but there is definitely tension in her voice. Rika catches a glimpse of Renamon, then looks away from her, ashamed of herself. She had made it sound purely like a bad thing. If she hadn't returned to the Digital World, she would never have been reunited with Renamon.

Maitreyamon: ...I waited this long because I did not want to burden you with yet another ordeal. I had hoped that someone would arise to quell this threat.

Takato: But no one did.

Maitreyamon: I chose you because you were the best suited. And because-your friends missed you and you missed them. Do I not speak the truth?

Rika: ...What happened when Srivatsamon appeared 9 years ago?

Maitreyamon: If word is to be believed, it was Shakamon who brought it here.

All: What?!

Maitreyamon: It has been said that Shakamon appeared one day without saying a word, bringing the monster forth and then disappearing without a trace.

Rika: Shakamon did this, but that's insane! Why would he-

Henry: It's killed Digimon, that goes against his own teachings!

Maitreyamon: It pains me to say it, even now I do not understand it myself. Though, judging by his actions and strange countenace, it would be reasonable to assume that something is wrong with him.

Rika: You don't know?

Maitreyamon: (A buddha knows all in matters of Dharma and self. But we are not in of ourselves, all-knowing. We are, however, capable of knowing anything. If petitioned, we may tap into the mind of the Creator. However, if for some reason, the Creator refuses to reveal a thing to us, then we have no power to speak of it. It is acinteyya, it is imponderable.) My attention was not on Shakamon during these events. And now, Shakamon's mind is closed off to me.

Takato: Well, what if those Digimon were lying!

Maitreyamon: No! The eyewitnesses were not lying, of that I am sure.

Takato: How can you know?!

Maitreyamon: Because-Because three of the eyewitnesses are standing before you at this very moment.

The three humans look at their Digimon friends.

Renamon: We were there when it happened, Rika.

Rika looks to the side, excepting the news.

Rika: ...How do we beat it?

Maitreyamon: Scattered across the Digital Worlds there are nine malevolent magical relics which I believe can stop this monster. The Dark Crests, they include: the crest of Cowardice(Crescent Moon), the crest of Solitude(Evil Eye), the crest of Hate(Broken Heart), the crest of Duplicity(Pentagram), the crest of Ignorance(Glasses), the crest of Impurity(Dirt cloud), the crest of Despair(Falling Star), the crest of Cruelty(Thorny Rose Stem), the crest of Darkness(Black Hole).

With a wave of his hand, eleven tags float to the children.

Maitreyamon: Exercise extreme caution when handling the Crests, they carry unfathomable dark power. You may need to exhibit momentary negative personality traits in order to make them yours. However, it is of utmost importance that you do not give into it, resist their pull.

Henry: (So, since the worlds are connected, they should, in theory, be easier to find). I remember the Digi-Destined telling us something about the Crests they found. Are you sure we really need to use them, to use something so- evil? It just feels so-wrong.

Rika: Wait, you said there were nine. But there are eleven tags here.

Takato: Do we need the other two for something?

Maitreyamon: I assure you, I would not ask this of you if it were not absolutely necessary. When all nine Crests are brought together in a single place, and a wish is made, they will bring forth the Crests of Deception(Snake) and Freedom(Open Lock). It is my hope that They will destroy the beast.

He looks to Henry.

Maitreyamon: A Buddha's power is exceedingly holy, so only something of equal dark malevolence would be able to counter it.

Takato: Where will we find these Dark Crests?

Maitreyamon: Unfortunately, as a Buddha, I am not allowed to directly involve myself in the affairs of mortals.

Henry: That's just great-

Maitreyamon: But, what I can, I will reveal to you... I see-a diminutive desert planet, a dying forest, a cave of gloom, and floating abyssal isles.

The Tamers look disheartened, that is not much to go on. Noticing, Maitreyamon gives a word of advice.

Maitreyamon: Search out "The Four Perils".

At this, Renamon's eyes go wide. The three Digimon were not made privy to this bit of information.

Renamon: You did not tell us that! You never mentioned that they would have to face the "Four Disonant Ones"!

Terriermon: Do you have any idea how dangerous that's gonna be for them, huh?!

Takato: Uh-who?

Rika: Henry?

Henry: I think I remember hearing something about them. They are from Chinese Mythology, and I don't remember reading much, but they are supposed to be-

Henry looks nervous and very serious. The screen shows a wavy gray background with five black silhouettes. They resemble a Cow(East), a Sheep(North), a larva(South), and a winged tiger(West). At the center is the fifth silhouette, a Qilin.

Maitreyamon/Henry: The Dark counterparts to the Four Sovereigns.

Maitreyamon: Also known as "The Four Perils" and the "Four Criminals", they are exceedingly wicked beings and I cannot guarantee that they will be hospitable to you. But if anyone knows where you can find the Crests, it will be them. Many of the them have taken it upon themselves to guard the Dark Crests. No doubt attracted to their energy. I have sent word to their subordinates, the Twelve Asura Generals.

Another set of silhouettes are shown, black with glowing yellow eyes. They are scattered around a dark throne room, bathed in red light. The leader among them, a goat Digimon, is sitting on a throne with hs head resting on his fist.

Maitreyamon: Whether their Masters are willing to aid you, we must wait and see. If fortune smiles upon us, the Twelve will help guide you on your quest.

Renamon: We didn't stand a chance against the Four Sovereigns-

She says baring her teeth and protracting her claws.

Rika: Renamon, enough. It's already been decided, we are going to help.

Renamon: Rika...

Henry: No matter the cost.

Terriermon: Henry...

Takato: We can't just abandon the Digital World. Besides, what'll happen to you guys if we don't do anything!

Guilmon: Takato...

Renamon: (Exhale) If-that is your choice.

Maitreyamon: A short distance from here you will find a building. You will find food and shelter their for the night. From there, head for the canyon... Namaskaram and good luck.

Renamon gives him a dangerous look at they turn to leave.

Renamon: We are not through here. After this is all over-

Maitreyamon fades away and the screen cuts to black. In the next scene, the reunited team come into a clearing in the forest where they come face to face with what they think is the "Shelter" Maitreyamon mentioned.

The screen cuts to black for a few seconds.

Rika: What is that supposed to be?

Takato: Um, so-I guess this is it then?

Terriermon: Are you sure? I mean, it's "shelter" alright, but-

The camera zooms out, showing the building and the backs of the team. It is a large, albeit simple doll house with three walls. It's frame is magenta and it's floors are checkered black and white. Each floor has a golden chandelier glowing with a yellow light. Using an elevator on the left side of the house, Terriermon goes up to explore the second floor while the others get dinner started below.

Terriermon: Huh?

Terriermon sees an Etemon looking at himself in the mirror located above the rooms only sink on the far side. He is combing his nonexistent hair while singing to himself. Looking to the right, Terriermon becomes aware of a party going on nearby.

Renamon: what is it, Rika?

Rika, still carrying the buns for the hotdogs, walks closer towards the blinking lights and loud music.

Rika: Hnm? Is there some kind of party going on?

Renamon: A party? That's strange.

Guilmon: I don't remember seeing that on the way here.

Takato: Me neither.

There is a disco ball floating about twenty or so yards away, a bunch of Digimon are dancing below it on a checkered floor. All of which, seem to have come out of nowhere. Music is blasting.

Etemon: "Sex bomb, Sex Bomb, I'm a sex bomb, I'm the only one who can turn me on".

He says pointing at himself in the mirror with both index fingers.

Etemon: Hn?

The monkey turns to look at Terriermon and blushes, clearly having been unaware of his presence. He then takes off, jumping off the side, not stopping until he gets out of sight. Terriermon shrugs.

Rika: Now what was that about?

Henry: I guess we weren't alone.

Takato: Sure is running fast...

Guilmon and Renamon turn toward each other.

In the next scene he is lathering his head in front of the mirror, talking to himself out loud.

Terriermon: Can you believe that guy? Singing about himself in a mirror, how pathetic can you be?!

He begins swaying as the new song from below carries. He checks himself out in the mirror.

Terriermon: I'm my cherry pie-

Guilmon and Renamon both come up the elevator just in time to catch him singing to himself. There is a dinging sound as the two stare at their friend blankly with a "Seriously dude" expression. Terriermon lets out a embarrassed screech, and whips around, covering his chest like a woman who has been caught naked.

Terriermon: ...Don't tell Henry.

Renamon: Let's go, dinner is getting started.

Emracing their return to childhood, and foregoing the perfectly functional stove, the team elects to cook the hotdogs on sticks over the firepit outside. They spend hours just swapping stories with each other.

Henry: So, how are things going with little Takato?

Takato: Not so "little" anymore, he's out on his own, and he has a fiance now. And you? Still the ladies man?

Henry: Believe me, women are the last thing on my my mind. You know, two wives, and of course, each had two daughters: Mao, Zhu, Helen, & Bai. I have all the women I can handle. Go figure.

Guilmon: When you first came back here I thought you might be little Takato!

Terriermon: Eh, Guilmon-

Renamon: The math doesn't work, Guilmon.

Guilmon: Oh, right. Well, Takato III then!

Renamon: I would like to hear about your children. If that is okay, Rika.

Henry: That's right, you're the only one still raising kids. How old are they again?

Rika: They are 18. There is the girl, her name is Yukika, and other, Hachiro, is the boy. They both have their fathers blonde hair, but they have my eyes. We wanted to acknowledge both of their heritages, so we gave each of them two names when they were born. At home we called them Rachael and Thomas, but in school everyone called them by their Japanese names. We didn't want them to feel strange or out of place. For that reason, we also chose to keep my name instead. Hachiro was a bit of a little troublemaker though, he wanted to keep his "Daddy's" name. So he always signed his as Hachiro Nonaka-Mconnelly, even when the teachers told him to stop.

Her eyes show obvious affection for them both. Renamon wants to learn more, but knows where that line of questioning will lead. And so, she keeps quiet.

Henry: Why did you guys wait so long?

Rika: ... Well, it was a combination of things. But, ultimately, we were both just too stubborn. And with what happened to him when he was a kid-it's no surprise that he would hesitate.

Henry: Didn't he-have-you know-urges?

Rika: (Exhale) we both did. But I was just too proud to let someone do that to me, I thought it was demeaning. I mean think about it, the whole thing is kind of submissive for the girl.

Henry: And him?

Rika: He may not look it, but he is very shy. He didn't relax on the whole nudity issue until about 50. And-I don't think it's so much that he didn't have those feelings. So much as they weren't ever particularly important to him.

Renamon notices that Takato has been periodically glancing at her redhead companion.

Renamon: Takato keeps looking over here.

Rika: Is something the matter? Is there something on my face or something? You've been looking at me a lot.

Takato: No, it's just-I didn't-I didn't remember that you looked this cute back then. That's all.

He says scratching the side his lip awkwardly. Having matured considerably, she only blushes slightly, flashing a mischevious smile and sending a jab back at him.

Rika: Aw, I always knew you were in love with me, little boy! Look who's talking, cutie, with those sweet cheeks!

She says while pinching his his face.

Takato: Ow ow ow, hey stop that! I mean it, cut that out!

She let's go. And he starts rubbing his cheeks.

Takato: Jeez, forget I said anything!

Rika sits back down, with an almost dreamy smile on her face. They had all missed this pointless bantering. Looking at her two friends, who happen to be male, she starts to have deeper thoughts. And she is now mature enough to realize how much she loves them.

Henry: I suppose, it's been so long... we've all forgotten what we looked like back then.

Rika: Hey, Takato? Henry? Have you ever-thought about if things had been-different? Like between us?

Guilmon makes a "Whoa" face, his eyes go big. Terriermon's mouth drops to the floor.

Henry: Rika-

Rika: Don't get me wrong. I don't regret marrying Andrew. It's just-when you get to be our age, you just get to thinking, you know? How things could have gone... and in the end, when all the romace dries up, and you have kids, what are you left with? Is it really all that different from a friend? Looking back now, I had a lot of options: Wraith, the two of you, and Ryo, of course.

Rika keeps looking at Takato until he gets nervous.

Takato: W-ell, I guess I always thought you were-you know-kind of pretty. Kind of Hot too.

Henry: That's it?

Takato: Well-nnrrhh-and tough, and independent, and of course a little terrifying-only when you were angry though. Which was-often.

Rika laughs hard at that remark.

Rika: What about you, Henry?

Henry: If I am being honest, I never thought of you as a anything more than a friend. Of course, that doesn't mean I wasn't open to making it into something more if you offerred-

Having bared their souls to there female friend, Henry decides to turn the tables a little.

Henry: What to talk about next... oh, I know. When was everyone's "first time".

At this Rika's face turns much more red, a shocked look on her face.

Rika: Wha-?!

Henry: Oh, come on. You're not going to turn into a kid on us now, are you, huh, old lady?

Rika: Hmph. Fine!

She says crossing her arms. The camera zooms out before cutting to the team sleeping in the beds on the third floor. There are only three beds, so each shares one with their Digimon partner. There is a dresser on the far left side of the room and a lamp and lampstand on the right and left sides of the middle bed.

Chapter 2:

Flashbacks are shown in the childrens dreams. The camera zooms in on the Takato and then Guilmon before changing to the dreams contents. This particular memory takes places in Henry's apartment. Kenta is sitting on the couch watching and Kazu is sitting cross-legged on the arm rest, his head resting on his fist with a bored expression on his face.

Takato: He's our friend now. We should try to get to know him better. Right?

Guilmon: Right!

Takato: Now-how do we do that?

Terriermon: Maybe, you need to do something to help him loosen up, you know, to get him to open up to us?

Kazu: I really don't get the point of this. He clearly doesn't want to be our friend.

Kenta: Shh!

Henry: Well, if he was Japanese, this is where I would invite him to a hot spring. But, let's face it, we already know what he would say-

Both Henry and Takato look up at the cieling, imagining the scenario. Takato's imagined scenario is quite short and to the point.

Wraith: You two queers want me to do what with you?

In Henry's scenario, Wraith is sitting at a table, tents his fingers like Gendo Ikari, and closes his eyes for a few seconds before reopening them.

Wraith: So, do your girlfriends know you two are gay?

The hypothetical scenarios end.

Takato: (Exhale) Yeah, that's not going to work.

He says crossing his arms and closing his eyes. Kazu looks to Kenta, surprised that he is speaking up.

Kenta: Hey. What if we-just-take him to one of those onsen where wearing a towel is mandatory? Do you think that would be okay?

Henry: And since it would be a mixed bath, we all could go.

Henry/Terriermon: That might actually work!

Takato: Way to go, Kenta!

Guilmon: Yeah, and if we get Rika and the Generals to gang up on him, there's no way he can say no!

Rika just got home from getting groceries with her Grandmother. By this point Rika has become comfortable enough around Wraith to show her cuter side. While her grandmother puts away the groceries, Rika sneaks up behind wraith on her boyfriend. He is sitting on the couch, wrapped in his cape like a brooding Batman. She falls forward, throwing her arms around him with a warm smile, laughing playfully.

Orphan: (Exhale) Could you two wait until I'm not here to do that gross stuff?

Her eyes turn white, her face flushed with embarrassment.

Rika: What are you doing here? It's not like I invited you!

Takato calls Wraith's house and Rika picks up. The view becomes split-screen with Takato on the right and Rika on the left. You can still see Wraith and his brother sitting on the couch, one watching television and the other playing a gameboy. After listening to Takato's proposal, she glances over her shoulder.

Rika: Hnm-I don't know if he'll go for it-but I'll see what I can do.

Matthew, otherwise known as Orphan, must have super hearing given his quick response.

Orphan: As long as they are coming, I'm not going.

Rika grits her teeth and hangs up the phone, before turning around and yelling at him.

Rika: N-o one invited you to come along!

The scene cuts to Wraith, Takato, Henry, Rika and the rest of the Generals squeezed into one onsen pool. It is hard to read whether Wraith is enjoying himself or not, his expression almost never changes. Unfortunately, the Digimon were counted as "Animals" and were consequently barred from entiring. Funny, given that they had used the "Costume" excuse at Kochi Park and been allowed in.

Takato: So, pretty neat, huh?

Henry: All of us friends, just relaxing together in the hot water.

Wraith: ...

Takato: Yeah, how about that, right? We even get to keep out towels on. Can't beat that, right?

Rika: Are you two ever going to shut up? He is trying to enjoy the hot Spring.

She says, while sitting close to her boyfriend, blushing slightly.

Rika: (At least, I-hope-he's enjoying it. He's so tense all the time, maybe the hot spring will help him relax.)

Not everyone can fit in the same pool, so some are in other adjoining pools. However, there are several all around them, so everyone is closeby. Ai, Mako, Takumi, Hiromi and Suzie are all in one of the other pools. Takumi splashes Suzie , then Ai and Mako start splashing one another and before you know it a splash fight has broken out.

Ai: I'm gonna get you!

Both: Hahahahah!

Kazu and Kenta are in their own onsen. Kenta notices that the pink haired girl(Not wearing her glasses) keeps looking over at him with a little grin.

Kazu: What is it?

Kenta: I-It's that girl, with the pink hair. She keeps staring at me.

Kenta looks nervous, but not entirely unhappy about it though. He has spent a long time hoping to get a girl to like him, but never really thought about what he would do once he actually did.

Kazu: Nah, really?

He turns back toward his friend.

Kazu: Maybe she likes you. Let's call her over!

Kenta: Wah?! N-No don't-!

Having finally made eye contact, Amaya gets out of the water and makes her way over to them.

Kenta: Oh, man, she's coming over here!

Kazu: You owe me one.

Kenta: H-Hey, where are you going?!

Kazu leaves just as the giggling girl comes down into the water next to him. She almost immediately cuddles up uncomfortably close next to him on the right side.

Kenta: H-Hello.

Amaya: Hi, my name is Amaya.

Still smiling, she tilts her head questioningly, clearly signaling "And you are?". He tries to look at her using his peripheral vision.

Kenta: Huh, oh, yeah, um, m-my name. It-it i-is Kenta.

Amaya: That's a nice name.

Isamu: What?

He notices Nori looking over his shoulder at Amaya, who is talking to the green haired boy the Tamers brought with them.

Nori: It's Amaya, she's talking with that boy.

Isamu: Alright. let's see what she's up to. Hey, Boss, we're gonna check on Amaya, she's acting weird.

Kenta: (Oh, thank God).

Two of the generals have come just in time to break up the awkwardness. She was getting her face way to close to his when she was talking to him. The one is a little strange. He was white hair and wearing two towels, one from his nose to his chest, the other from his waist to his knees.

Isamu: Ay, Amaya, what'you doin with this guy.

Nori: I hope we aren't intruding.

Amaya: He's not a "Guy", his name is Kenta.

Isamu: Yeah, well, that's all nice and good. But what are you doing with him anyway? I thought you were a dyke.

She turns completely white with cracks all over her body, a shattered glass sound can be heard as her mouth hangs open.

Amaya: Aaaaaakkkk!

Isamu: Well, you are, aren't ya?

Amaya: I-I'll have you know that I was just a little bit confused, that is all. I had the right to be confused, I had HOCD! And besides, I can talk to whoever I like and-huh?

Chaos ensues. A buck naked Hiromi is chasing Takumi, who is running away laughing with her towel in hand. The other young children, Ai and Mako are still splashing one another, laughing loudly while doing so. Being young, the two have discarded their towels.

Henry: Suzie?!

Suzie is crying. She had noticed Takumi and Hiromi before everyone else and tried to go tell her brother. But as she did she slipped on a bar of soap and face planted to the floor. All of these things add up to conduct most rude for an onsen.

Henry hurries to his little sister, gently rubbing the big red mark on her forehead.

Henry: Sshhh sshhh sshh, I know it hurts, but you have to be a big girl, and try to be quiet alright?

Hiromi: G-Give me back my towel, you pervert!

Everyone looks away in embarrassment, especially the other Generals. They know her personally, after all. Isamu puts a hand over his face, embarrassed both for her and himself. Nori turns red, continuing to look forward, refusing to turn around. Toshiaki, who can't see anything, but can hear everything, turns red, but keeps facing toward Wraith.

Takato: Uh, where did Wraith go?

He reappears menacingly, gripping Takumi where his neck and shoulder meet and lifting him off the ground. The boy seemingly passes out, his soul is shown sticking out of his mouth comically. The other children start to come towards him. Hiromi yanks her towel out of his hand and covers herself hurriedly. Proceeding then to pummel her enemy senseless. The passed out boy grabs Wraith's towel as he falls. As it comes off the others hold their breath, but Wraith is remarkably calm. The camera zooms in on the black swim trunks he is wearing underneath.

Generals/Tamers: Was he wearing that the whole time?!

And, of course, that is when the Staff comes out, taking in the whole scene. There is a dinging sound, and all the children are shown being scolded by the staff for their unsafe conduct and for disturbing the other guests. The children bow their heads in shame. Everything considered, the staff seems fairly calm and yet...

Henry: (Exhale) And-we're getting kicked out. How am I going to explains this to Dad? Could this get any worse?

Just then Naiyuta and Alice come out into the bathing area, towels wrapped around their bodies. Alice's expression is harder to read, but Naiyuta looks actively pissed.

Naiyuta: Henry Wong, I don't care about her, but there better be a really good explanation for why I wasn't invited!

Takato: Boy, hate to break it to you, Henry, but I think things just got worse.

Henry: (Exhale).

Jeri pops out from behind the two of them and waves to Takato.

Jeri: Hey, Takato!

Jeri walks up to Takato to talk. There is sudden alarm on Rika's face.

Rika: No, Takumi, don't-!

Wraith realizes that he is now only holding Takumi's towel, not the boy in it. The sneaky brat had a second, shorter towel on underneath. He runs passed the two new arrivals down the middle, laughing. As the two girls turn around to watch the boy, he grips their towels, ripping them off.

Naiyuta/Alice: Nyaaaaaaahhh!

After two fairly quick butt shots, the screen goes black. Two audible slapping sounds can be heard.

The kids wave goodbye to one another as they get in their respective cars.

Takato: See ya, Henry!

Henry: Yeah.

Takato makes and awkward smile, knowing full well why he got this half-hearted response.

But she doesn't tell him this. Kenta sees Amaya, this time with her glasses on.

Kenta: ...

There is a twinkle in his eyes at finding a girl "Like him". He smiles, continuing to wave well after she has closed the car door and driven off. Kazu walks up behind him with his hands in his pockets.

Kazu: You're hopeless, you know that? I totally set it up for you to be alone back there and-

He says, obviously annoyed.

Kazu: Hnm, what's with you?

Kenta: Glasses.

Kazu: Uh-huh, I think you were in the water too long.

Kenta: Sh-she has glasses, just like me.

He points at himself, his face pink and his eyes almost shut.

Kenta: Alright, I have a girlfriend!

Kazu: Yeah, you aren't actually dating her, you know.

He says crossing his arms and shaking his head, his eyes closed.

Wraith and a blushing Rika get into the same car together. Rika, even though she knows it is silly, feels embarrassed that she was naked under her towel the whole time, while he was not. Takumi has two big red marks on his face, one on the left cheek, one on the right. But, apparently it was worth it, because he is still smiley as ever.

Rumiko: Did you have fun?

Takumi: Loads, but then they kicked us out!

He says, making a Naruto Jutsu hand signal. Rika right eyebrow twitches and she bonks the boy on the top of the head.

Takato's eyes open just at the part of his dream whens his parents open his passenger door and welcome him in.

Takato: (We never did get to know Wraith better, did we.) Wow, Henry sure had it rough that day - being yelled at by his girlfriends- and then being chewed out by his dad later. Wonder why I dreamt about it? Are they dreaming about it too? Nah, that'd be nuts. All well, (Yawn) might as well get back to sleep.

Everything cuts to black. The six are awakened to the bright morning sun shining in their room and so take off early in the morning. Terriermon did not sleep as well as the other Digimon.

Terriermon: (Yawn) What did the great sage and eminent chunky say we have to do again?

Henry: He told us to find the canyon. You have to learn to pay attention, Terriermon.

Takato: Let's see, he said that if we kept going straight after the doll house, we would find it.

He says, looking at a compass that has appeared on his Digivice.

Rika: Takato, watch out!

She shoves him out of the way and both of them fall down among the trees. A huge icosahedron die comes tumbling down from the sky, rolling down the path they came from. Henry, Terriermon, Guilmon, and Renamon leap to the right and left to dodge it. Takato and Rika each watch the object bounce by.

Takato: Thanks. What was that thing?

Rika: A tweny faced die.

A Honeybeemon quickly hovers over to them. Another follows soon after.

Honeybeemon: Sorry!

Honeybeemon 2: We lost our grip!

Guilmon: You almost squashed us!

His eyes go feral.

Renamon: Why were you carrying something like that anyway?

Several Puroromon are lifting the object back into the air as a third Bee digimon appears to explain. It points up at the sky. A spiraling vine twirls high into the sky, atop of which lies a beehive. A golden Hexagon is floating above a dirt island dark blue in color, with four rivers of honey pouring out from it's sides.

Fanbeemon: It is our sacred object, which our queen fancies.

A shadow falls over the little bees and the Tamers. The little Puroromon almost lose their grip upon seeing it, but quickly recover, continuing with business as usual.

TigerVespamon: Why do you dawdle with these inconsequentials? Her majesty awaits her prize with ever increasing impatience.

Fanbeemon: T-Tigervespamon?! My a-apologies, but when the sacred object was dropped, we almost crushed these humans and Digimon-

TigerVespamon: And why should our Sovereign Queen be kept waiting over such trivialities? You there, get a move on and stay out of our way. Lest your filthy blood desecrate the holy object!

Rika: Excuse me, but, you said it is holy?

TigerVespamon: Yes, that is correct, what of it?

Rika: If it's so "Sacred", then why did you drop it in the first place?

A sweat drop forms on the back of his head. It would be safe to assume that he does not know how to answer that question. He turns towards his subordinates.

TigerVespamon: Be more careful next time! Troops, forward flight!

The Bees take off into the air, the poor little Puroromon struggling to lift the peculair object until the Fanbeemmon chip in. TigerVespamon comes back down for a few seconds.

TigerVespamon: Quickly, where are you headed?

Guilmon: We're trying to reach the canyon.

TigerVespamon: Continue on the path you are on and you will find your destination. Oh, and, if you were to keep this blunder between us, that would be much appreciated.

Another sweat drop forms on his head and he takes off slower than before. Some time later, as the gang is about to reach the crest of a certain tall hill a flashback is shown. A Baalmon hands a Dragon fruit to a Gatomon on the right side. A Luxmon is bartering with a Centarumon on the left. A BushiAgumon is sitting cross-legged in his stall with four whicker trays sitting in front of him. Each has a different kind of fish on it. Near the back and Coronamon hops up and down eagerly behind his stand, trying to get everyone's attention. The poor Coronamon thinks everyone is coming closer to see his wares, but gets the idea when he notices the shadow being cast over him. A Wizardmon in the crowd fires at the unseen force.

Wizardmon: Thunder Bomb!

Coronamon's eyes go wide as he leaps over the stable and narrowly escaping being crushed by an unseen force.

Coronamon: Whoa whoa waaaaaaaaaahhh!

The Centarumon helps the Coronamon onto his back and they get to safety.

Kongoumon: Everybody run!

The flashback ends as the Tamers reach the top of the hill and look upon the open field at it's bottom.

Takato: What happened here?

Deep down, he already knows the answer, Srivatsamon. A gigantic red space ship resembling a Yatzhee cup floats ominously towards the Tamers. It slowly touches down, then rises back up, revealing three large dice-like Digimon, six brown soldier-like digimon, and twelve smaller poker chip digimon. A gust of wind and dust blows away several Digimon and their stands. The Digivice comes up:

Saikoromon: Champion Level, The dice creatures have six brown insect-oid, or perhaps crustacean legs, and a gaping black hole with glowing yellow eyes inside similar to Digitamamon.

SoldierxCardmon: Ultimate Level, The brown robotic soldiers, wearing white garbs with joker hat emblems on them.

Chippumon: Rookie Level: Poker chips with white faces, red and white striped rims, white "M " like hands and feet and permanent grins.

There are four knightly figures: A Yellow one on the left Saikoromon, a Green one on the right Saikoromon, and two, one Violet & one red, on the middle Saikoromon.

Spot lights focus on the four. (Bomberman Generation- Boss Battle Theme plays) The backgrounds turn black and dark blue with stars shooting by as they swing their weapons and announce who they are.

10xCardmon: I aaaaam...the hammer of the Royal Guard... 10xCardmon!

He does a few jabs then swings his sword like a hammer. He gets in a pose.

JackxCardmon: I aaaaam...the anvil of the Royal Guard...JackxCardmon!

He spins his spear to the left, then the right, then stabs with it. He gets into a pose.

QueenxCardmon: I aaaaam...the Supreme commander of all his Majesty's Forces...QueenxCardmon!

She spins in circles like a ballerina, then thrusts her one halberd out while holding the other up. She gets into a pose.

KingxCardmon: And I aaaaam...the Universal ruler of all the known world, the bringer of justice and peace...KingxCardmon!

He does several cross cuts with his two swords, then blocks with both. He poses.

All: Together, we are-the Royal Flush Army!

They all get into different poses, making them look rather much like Power Rangers or the Ginyu Force perhaps. KingxCardmon has his swords crossed over his chest, QueenxCardmon is standing behind him with her halberds out in a "Y" stance, JackxCardmon and 10xCardmon are on the right and left with their weapons facing inward towards their lieges. The underlings all clap at their performance. Sweat drops form on the backs of the Tamers heads, that was extremely awkward.

Takato: Uh, no one asked who they were...

QueenxCardmon: Hear all ye, subjects of the realm! Do not do this, do not try and fight Srivatsamon, do not fight the undefeatable foe! It is the eternal knot, it will never vanish, it will never cease. Accept it, embrace it's justice! Prostrate yourselves to your King and Cakravartin. Submit to his will, and heed to his instructions and you shall be saved! Thus speaks KingxCardmon, your King and savior!

Her voice is so loud that it carries for miles, several Digimon peek their heads out of the surrounding woods. A Fanbeemon floats overhead, after hearing the speech to its completion, it's antennae blink red.

Fanbeemon: Call 88.

The scene cuts to the inside of the Honey Base. QueenBeemon sits on her throne, two Vespamon on her right and her left. TigerVespamon approaches her and bows.

Queenbeemon: Whaaaaat?! You mean to tell me that another monarch, a king, has appeared, and in his arrogance, wishes to make my territory his?!-Is he handsome?

Tigervespamon: My Queen, this is an urgent matter! We must prepare for an invasion! If our sentinel has been discovered, then that will lead them here, your Majesty! ...And, no, if reports are true, the King resembles an old man, and he is already wed.

She pitches a fit, smacking the right chair arm several times with her fan.

QueenBeemon: Unacceptable! Unacceptable! Unacceptable! So, you are telling me that an old man is good enough for a beautiful woman, but I am not good enough even for a hideous old man?!

Despite her intelligence, she has a habit of acting quite irrationally once she becomes emotional. TigerVespamon knows well enough not to point out the fact that the king doesn't even know who Queenbeemon is in the first place. TigerVespamon keeps staring at her until she finally calms down and responds to the problem at hand.

QueenBeemon: Do not fear, my loyal subject. Let them come, no one has ever been able to infiltrate this fortress. No one has ever breached these hallowed walls I myself have designed. And no one ever will. So long as we remain, we are safe.

The violet Digimon looks back and forth, then at the Tamers.

QueenxCardmon: Insolence, you do not bow to a king?! Have you no respect for Royalty?!

Henry: You guy's know them?

Terriermon: Man, I was really hoping we wouldn't run in to these guys.

Rika: You've met before?

Renamon: They are fanatics who worship Srivatsamon and their king like gods.

Guilmon: They want to take over the entire Network so it can become part of their Empire!

10xCardmon: Bow, knaves!

Rika: First the bees and now this... What do we do, Takato?

QueenxCardmon, without moving her head, reads the little girls lips,then glances at the Fanbeemon above. Realizing it has been spotted, the Fanbeemon quickly retreats. The queen quickly whispers to her husband. He does not seem surprsed by this news at all.

JackxCardmon: We will not ask again! Bow!

The camera zooms in on Takato, who flashes a confident smile.

Takato: We're gonna fight.

She looks shocked.

Rika: Alright! My kind of way!

Henry: We've fought guys like you before.

Terriermon: People who think they can bully others to get what they want.

Guilmon: The Six Defilement Kings.

Henry: The Tree of Knowledge.

Renamon: The D-Reaper

Rika: The Dark Arms.

Takato: And together, we've defeated them all. You don't scare us!

Guilmon: Guilmon, digivolves to...Gallantmon!

Terriermon: Terriermon, digivolves to...MegaGargomon!

Renamon: Renamon, digivolves to...Sakuyamon!

QueenxCardmon: S-Such impertinence! I-I've never-

The King steps forward, waltzing down off of the Saikoromon.

KingxCardmon: Now, now, my Queen, perhaps they simply do not know any better. They come from another world, a world different from ours.

He says smiling warmly like a grandfather. But after looking at the other Digimon looking on, it fades away.

KingxCardmon: Then again, an example must be made. Yah!

He crosses his swords, something he seems to be fond of, and then drags them across one another. A X-shaped jet of red energy hits the three of them.

Gallantmon: Dnghh! B-But he didn't-even-call out his attack!

QueenxCardmon: Why would we? It would take away our advantage.

The elderly looking Digimon turns to walk away, but Gallantmon doesn't let him.

Gallantmon: Lightning Joust!

KingxCardmon: Nyah!

He swings the one sword and Gallantmon takes a direct scrape to the chest, skidding backwards. Gallantmon breathes heavy, inspecting the streak of light left on his armor.

KingxCardmon: Stay down, boy.

Gallantmon: (Again?! He did it again!)

MegaGargomon: Gallantmon?!

Gallantmon: Look out, he is much stronger than he should be! That attack all most finished me!

Sakuyamon: What?!

MegaGargomon: Maybe we should, Super Mega Digivolve!

All: Let's do it!

KingxCardmon: Hnm?! Gyah!

KingXCardmon repeats his initial attack, though this time, the energy pulls away and back into the Kings blades.

MegaGargomon: What the-

Sakuyamon: Gallantmon-!

Gallantmon: I know, we can't digivolve.

KingxCardmon: I don't know what "Super Mega" digivolution is, but now you won't be able to do it. I apologize, boy, I did not want to do this to you children-but with my subjects watching, you have given me no other choice, you have forced my hand. Dispatch with them.

He waves his hand in, "You take care of this trivial nonsense". The red Yatzee cup lowers itself on top of KingxCardmon and after a few seconds he reappears all the way at the top of the spaceship. QueenxCardmon leaps ahead without warning, spinning into the air. She stabs into MegaGargomon with one halberd, then spin slices with the other. He falls backwards on to his back. The Queen spring boards off of him as he tumbles and back onto her Saikoromon.

MegaGargomon: Argh! (Gallantmon was right! She's holding back, but that attack almost killed me! We need to finish this, fast!)

JackxCardmon and 10xCardmon both leap in the direction of the other two heroes, hacking and lashing. But having seen what happened to their ally, they dodge. The three Saikoromon come marching out from behind their riders, and start attacking.

Saikoromon 1: Dice roll!

Saikoromon 2: Dice Roll!

A very simplistic strategy. The one on the left aims instead for Sakuyamon and the other on the right for Gallantmon. Jumping aside, Gallantmon fires his Shield of the Just. He hits the ground underneath it and it is flung into the air. Sakuyamon shoots three fox spirits into the black abyss inside of her attacker and it stops in it's tracks. That is when both dice Digimon attack.

Both Saikoromon: Nightterror Affliction!

Incredibly similar to Digitamamon, two black figures stretch out to devour their foes. Rather than regular ghosts, they appear to be insectoid in appearance. They resemble black hermit crabs with whickers and yellow eyes, as well as snapping pinchers.

Gallantmon: Spiral Saber!

The shadow is repelled, but JackxCardmon reappears, grabbing Gallantmon by the head and bashing him into the ground. Riding the Saikoromon QueenxCardmon's comes running, jumping towards MegaGargomon. He catches it with both hands and kicks it behind him. He stands up while he has the chance. QueenxCardmon, jumped off of her Digimon just before it got thrown.

Sakuyamon: Fox Card!

Her Saikoromon foe's eyes turn sad and it is forced back inside it's dice shell. 10xCardmon appears on her left, thrusting his sword arm.

MegaGargomon: Mega barrage!

Sakuyamon: (He wasn't kidding! I can feel from his blows... if he hits me directly I'm finished!)

The Violet knight dodges and parrys the missiles mid-air. Sakuyamon, using Twin Blades of Beauty and of Truth, blocks the yellow knights blows, but hits the ground close to Gallantmon. The Saikoromon, SoldierxCardmon and Chippumon included, all run right passed the Tamers. Apparently interested in something else.

Sakuyamon: Gallantmon, they're heading for the Hive!

Gallantmon: I know, but there's nothing we can do about it now!

Sakuyamon slides underneath, between her enemies legs.

Gallantmon: Grrrr, Shield of the Just!

As JackxCardmon dodges the laser, Sakuyamon kicks 10xCardmon in the back and the two collide into one another. Gallantmon and Sakuyamon both attack in unison and the two are flung to the ground in front of the red spaceship. Noticing the grunts running passed him, MegaGargomon begins picking up and tossing the SoldierxCardmon and Chippumon at QueenxCardmon. She dodges and parries them with non-lethal blows. One of the Chippumon pegs her in the face.

QueenxCardmon: Dah! Stop throwing my underlings at me! I mean, really, how rude!

She finds herself unable to spare her allies and dodge at the same time and is hit by several missiles. The three Biomerge Digimon regroup.

MegaGargomon: Now!

All: Shield of the Just! Mega Barrage! Spirit Strike!

When the smoke clears the three card based Digimon stand up, virtually unharmed.

Gallantmon: There...was no damage...

MegaGargomon: You have got to be kidding me! They aren't even tired!

Sakuyamon: Something just isn't right!

Takato: This is insane! It's almost like we're in the fantasy of some bratty little kid! And every time the kid is about to lose, he just keeps making the bad guys stronger!

KingxCardmon: This is no game, boy. Submit!

KingxCardmon hits them with another dose of his cross-cutting attack. Now, they fall to their knees, reduced to their Champion forms: Rapidmon, Taomon, and Wargrowlmon. Rika, Takato, and Henry struggle to their feet. The other three Card Digimon make ready to pounce, when they are stopped.

KingxCardmon: That is enough for now, leave them in their shame. Let it be known that we are merciful as well.

Royal Flush Army: Haaaahhahahahahahahahah!

With that, the whole spaceship disappears from sight, moving backward. The adults turned kids fall back down.

Henry: They are heading towards the canyon-I can't believe it, damn it!

He says punching the ground.

Takato: W-We didn't even stand a chance...

Rika: You okay, Taomon?

The three Digimon's eyes shake, completely bewildered by what transpired. They seem okay physically speaking, but emotionally, they are scarred. This battle took a toll on their collective pride.

Taomon: How could this happen?

Wargrowlmon: We haven't been beat this bad since Wraith!

Rapidmon: And now, since we can't even Digivolve to Mega- how are we supposed to beat them?!

Just then, a small squad of Bee Digimon come floating to the six from behind. It is made up of TigerVespamon, four CannonBeemon, two FanBeemon, and four HoneyBeemon.

TigerVespamon: If you are yet capable, then we must talk...

Chapter 3:

The Children back track to the Hive they passed on the way to the field.

QueenBeemon: Greetings, young children. I welcome you to my humble home.

She says while not even looking at them.

Takato: Uh, thanks. But we're really not children-

QueenBeemon: "KingxCardmon" is a powerful foe. And from what my subordinates tell me, while mere children, you are also famous heroes. So, I propose we join forces!

Terriermon: Yeah, there is a little problem with that.

Renamon: After the last battle, we can only digivolve to our Ultimate levels.

Henry: And we couldn't even beat him on our Mega levels.

TigerVespamon: No matter, for this time, you will have the aid of our hive.

Rika: Why would you help us when you wanted nothing to do with us before?

QueenBeemon: No one has ever been able to breach our defenses. Never has anyone ever come so close to entering this throne room-. I beseech you, young heroes, will you aid us?!

She turns as if making a desperate plea(Hands in begging position), but is facing TigerVespamon.

Guilmon: Um, she's still not looking at us.

TigerVespamon: (Exhale) Her Majesty does this with everyone she considers unworthy.

Takato: I guess we have no other choice.

QueenBeemon: You mean, you accept my proposal?! Oh, good, I knew you would! How splendid! Surely you see it then, that no one can own land and Digimon! Such a thing is unthinkable-

Takato and Guilmon let out joyous little chuckles, whole heartedly agreeing with her sentiment.

Rika: ...

Rika, Terriermon, Renamon and Henry say nothing, Rika tilts her head, already having an inkling where this is going.

QueenBeemon: -Because it all belongs to me!

She says after clapping her hands together, looking excited. Sweat drops form on their heads, their stomachs drop from the shock and embarrassment.

QueenBeemon: Come children-

Henry: Excuse me, your-Majesty. I know we may not look like it, but actually, we're full grown adults. When we first got here we-

She suddenly zips over to the two boys before he can finish, as giddy as a schoolgirl. Now, looking the two in the faces. Her fists under her chin as she hovers cutely.

QueenBeemon: Truly? So then you are of the proper age for marriage? I have been looking for "My King" for quite some time now, you know!

Terriermon: She does realize, bees don't have kings, right?

Guilmon: I don't know.

He shrugs.

Takato: Uh, sorry, but, you see, we're already married. Henry there, has two wives.

She hangs her head, then flies back to her throne. Once she sits back down, she acts as though nothing happened.

QueenBeemon: Forward, March!

She swings out her fan. With their temporary allies in toe, the gang makes their long trek back to the site of their humiliation and further. Together, it has been decided that the Royal Flush Army has to be taken care of before they can continue on their way to the canyon. Eventually, they come across a river.

Rika: Are you sure this is the right way?

The little redhead says, sounding ever so slightly like her old self.

TigerVespamon: According to our intel, this is the direction our foes were last seen.

Takato: Hey, guys, there's something in the water!

?: Hey! Over here!

The fish Digimon leaps out of the water and does a spin mid-air. The Digivice comes up.

Digivice: Matsyamon, the fish Asura, Level: Ultimate.

Matsyamon: Are you guys still looking for the canyon? If so, you are way off.

Takato: I don't want to be rude, but, who are you?

Matsyamon: Well, you kids said you needed help, right?

The boys face fills with understanding.

Takato: Ah! So you must be one of the Twelve Asura! Does this mean you decided to help us?

Matsyamon: Some of us have, others aren't so sure yet. But getting back to the problem at hand...

TigerVespamon: We are in search of the Royal Flush Army.

Matsyamon: Hng, you wha-? That is not very smart.

Renamon: I know, but can you help us?

Terriermon: Can you tell us anything?

Matsyamon: Well, I-did-see them a little ways up the river from here. But, again, I wouldn't recommend it.

TigerVespamon: Leave such decisions to us, Asura. We bid you farewell.

TigerVespamon's patience seems to have run short at having his battle prowess called into question. The gang starts to walk off, Guilmon and Terriermon wave goodbye.

Takato: Thank you.

Matsyamon: W-wait! I'm not finished yet! Little brother!

There is a whale like sound and a large Digimon almost as wide as the river surfaces. Water shoots from the blow hole on his back.

Matsyamon: This here, is Yugmamon, he's not much of a talker, but he'll get you were you need to be.

Tamers: Little brother?!

Matsyamon: Climb on his back. Those bees can fly, but I'm sure you kids are tired after all that walking.

The seen cuts to the children riding the whale digimon. Matsyamon is following on the right side, jumping in and out of the water like a dolphin. The various bee Digimon are flying overhead. Rika sits yokozuwari style on the far right side of Yugmamon, singing to herself. This, again, is something she would never have done so many years ago.

Takato: Thanks for the help.

Matsyamon: Don't mention it. The way we see it, you kids might be our only hope.

As Rika continues singing, she drifts off into a daydream memory. In it, she is singing to Wraith on a little stage in a private karaoke room. By now she has become quite good at english and wants to show it off to her boyfriend. First she sings "Can't fight the moonlight" by LeAnn Rimes. She would usually be far to embarrassed to do such a thing, but since it is just the two of them, she was willing to do it. She looks surprisngly and uncharacteristically cute, if not a bit seductive while dancing. Doing a little twirl, winking, and then coaxing with her index finger.

Rika: "You can't fight the moonlight, yeah, ya can't fight it, gonna get to your heart."

She laughs like a sweet embarrassed little girl. Taps her feet a few times with her eyes closed, then starts the next, "Try" by P!nk.

Rika: " Where there is desire, there is gonna be a flame

Where there is a flame, someone's bound to get burned - "

Her eyes look soft, loving as she tilts her head to the left and the right as she sings. A particularly loud splash from Matsyamon snaps her back to reality. A bitter-sweet memory fights to come forth, but she pushes it back into the back of her mind.

Renamon: That was very pretty, Rika. You never would have done it for us back then. It's incredible to see how much you've grown...

Terriermon plops on Henry's back.

Terriermon: What about you, Henry? You pick up some new pipes while you were away too?

Henry: Fraid not, still can't carry a tune.

Takato: I used to sing to my son to get him to sleep. But, I wasn't very good, ha ha.

He says blushing with his eyes shut, scratching the side of his cheek with embarrassement.

Guilmon: Aw, Takato, I bet you're still better than Kazu and Kenta.

A quick scene shows the two now grown men waiting to cross the street, a long with a large crowd. both sneeze.

Kenta: Both of us? What was that about?

Kazu: Don't know, maybe someone's talking about us-

He says while wiping his nose with a handkerchief. Back in the Digital World, a CannonBeemon come up to TigerVespamon from somewhere ahead of them.

TigerVespamon: Hnm, I see.

He looks down at his new comrades.

TigerVespamon: Just a little further now! We are almost there!

Just then the SpaceShip appears, hoovering over the water ahead of them. Several Saikoromon, SoldierxCardmon and Chippumon are riding on top of them, are dropped from the ships bottom. Previously unseen, the ship reveals itself to have turrets. Aqua-green laser balls are being fired from three slots on the far left and right, two larger slots near the bottom. The CannonBeemon and Vespamon return fire.

Matsyamon: Hold on, everybody! Things are about to get bumpy...

He leaps out of the water and high into the air, swinging his weapon, a huge smokers pipe.

Matsyamon: Budabudah Bubble Barrage!

When he blows into it and swings it, hundreds of blue-white bubbles pour from it, hitting the Saikoromon. Some fall face first from the attack, causing the SoldierxCardmon and Chippumon aboard to fall in. That is when the knightly Digimon come hopping from Saikoromon to Saikoromon. First QueenxCardmon, followed by 10xCardmon, and then JackxCardmon at the rear. The queen immediately attacks Guilmon mid-jump towards Yugmamon.

Takato: Here they come-!

TigerVespamon intercepts in the last second.

TigerVespamon: I'll hold her off, Digivolve!

Takato/Rika/Henry: Digivolve!

TigerVespamon shoves QueenxCardmon backward and two of his cohorts, follow up on the right and left.

Vespamon 1: Mach Sting!

Vespamon 2: Mach Sting!

She is forced to retreat to the Saikoromon she came from.

TigerVespamon: You will find that this battle will be a lot trickier than the last!

QueenxCardmon: Hmph.

She makes a smug little grin as the SoldierxCardmon and Chippumon, who thought drowned, now climb aboard the whale Asura's back. They create a circle around the Tamers and their Digimon pals. TigerVespamon looks up at his subordinates, then at the Royal Flush members, then returns to the sky.

TigerVespamon: My troops need me, you, take care of these!

Taomon: Thousand spells!

Multiple paper Talismans attach themselves to the Saikoromon QueenxCardmon is on. She jumps backward onto a different one before it explodes. Now that they are up close, their numbers can be seen in the upper left and bottom right corners ranging from 2-9. The minions use surprisingly simple tactics, lunging for their enemies. One of the Chippumon even gets Henry in a bear hug, he headbutts it and it lets him go. After which he kicks it back into the water. The underlings have similar attacks to one another.

SoldierxCardmon: Dealer!

One of two SoldierxCardmon shoots metal playing cards at WarGrowlmon.

SoldierxCardmonm: Deck!

Another shoots a whole pack of them at him. The Chippumon keeps throwing little razor sharp poker chips at Rapidmon and Taomon. The two digimon Partners need to keep picking up their human buddies and moving them out of harms way.

Matsyamon: Cross-Cutter Ganges!

Matsyamon leaps back and forth over his brother, doing little spins. Thin jets of water cut down foes each time. The attacks resemble the Leviathan Sewer Savage from Bomberman 64.

Chippumon: Stack!

Chippumon 2: Stack!

Chippumon 3: Crying call!

All of the Chippumon suddenly let out an identical piercing cry. It is so high pitch that Tamers & Digimon alike need to cover their ears to stop their eyes from watering. The Chippumon change colors as they scream. Some of them turn blue, while others turn green.

WarGrowlmon: Atomic Blaster! Atomic Baster!

Rapidmon: Homing Missiles!

Seeing that their allies are being taken out, the SoldierxCardmon take action.

SoldierxCardmon: Shuffle!

The Card Digimon spin in circles, alternating between who fires. The Tamers are forced to hit the proverbial deck, no pun intended. This doesn't last long.

WarGrowlmon: Radiation Blade!

He swings into the blurry images circling them, killing two. Unable to stop, the rest crash into Wagrowlmon's right leg. The left over Chippumon hitch their bets on the children, picking them off the ground. They crush them against their chests. Two Vespamon manage to target and destroy four of the Spaceships turrets. One of them looks below, then motions with it's head to the other. Not caring for things like "honor" two Vespamon cut them down from behind and even help the children back to their feet.

QueenxCardmon: Enough of this-

She says sounding impatient.

QueenxCardmon: Just remember, we gave you a chance-now you are going to drown here!

The Spaceship floats into the air and open fire on the whale digimon. He lets out an annoyed, painful moan.

Matsyamon: Hop on my back!

Taomon jumps aboard, surfing on his back.

Taomon: Look after Rika!

Rapidmon/WarGrowlmon: Right!

Matsyamon swims right past the three knight card digimon.

Taomon: Talisman of Light!

She does this three separate times, while it doesn't do much damage it does slide the three closer to the edge of their mounts.

Taomon: Thousand Spells!

All three are covered in paper talismans.

QueenxCardmon: Dah! How rude!

She says as she attempts to rip the one off of her face. While they are distracted Matsyamon bashes into the Saikoromon, knocking their foes into the water. The hope being that they will drown in the deep waters of the river. The Talismans explode underwater, and the Space ship bobs a bit on the water, but otherwise remains the same. Yugmamon, who is now getting impatient with the lasers hitting him, lets out a much louder pained roar.

Matsyamon: Oh-oh...

The animals vibrates, alerting those aboard his back. All five passengers wobble, looking down at Yugmamon.

Takato: Whoa-!

WarGrowlmon: What is going on?!

Rapidmon: Whatever it is, it isn't good!

Taomon: What?! What is it?!

Matsyamon: You Vespamon, FanBeemon, and HoneyBeemon, get ready to catch them! He's about to get very angry...

Rapidmon: Whoa, whoa, big fella! Don't forget, we're still on your ba-

The Royal Flush surface just in time to see the humongous whale jump high into the air.

All: Aaaaaaaaaaaaaaahhhhhhhhhh!

WarGrowlmon, Rapidmon, Rika, Takato, and Henry are flung off his back and even higher into the air. The various bee Digimon do as they are bid, catching the children before they fall.

Yugmamon: Samudravela!

When he come crashing back down into the water, a giant wall of water heads for the Royal Flush Army. This bunches them all together against the ship as it is taken down stream. The furious QueenxCardmon and the rest can be seen fighting to stay above the surface before they are pulled under.

Takato: Wow-thanks for the save!

Vespamon: Bzzzzzzz.

Henry: Do you think...they're dead?

Rika: It better have.

Terriermon: There's no way they survived that!

Guilmon: Not a chance!

Growlmon and Rapidmon had de-digivolved so that their insect friends could hold their weight. Matsyamon resurfaces, a sopping wet Taomon clutching his back.

Taomon: Is everyone, alright?

Matsyamon: Sorry about that, there's just nothing I can do once he gets like that-

He had went under, fighting the current when the wave hit. Yugmamon lets out a relieved sigh. The Tamers are gently let back down.

TigerVespamon: And with that our foes are finally vanquished.

Takato: Thanks for the help, we couldn't have done it without you.

TigerVespamon: Right you are-

The Tamers each sigh, somethings never change.

TigerVespamon: However, seeing you in combat, I am now confident that you are as you claim, heroes. And, I would be remissed if we did not atleast see you to the Canyon entrance.

This puts smiles on their faces. A quick scene is shown, Takato and co. are walking away, waving goodbye to the two Asura who had aided them. While they make their way to the canyons mouth, Guilmon notices that TigerVespamon seems distracted.

Guilmon: Hrnm?

Takato: What is it, Guilmon?

Guilmon: TigerVespamon seems distracted, maybe somethings on his mind.

Takato: Is something wrong?

TigerVespamon: Her Majesty has been busily searching for a mate-she has been unsuccessful thus far.

Takato: Oh, that's all...

He says chuckling with an awakward smile on his face.

TigerVespamon: ( The two FanBeemon I sent down river, have not been contacting me...)

Takato: There it is, but-huh?

Terriermon: Who is that guy?

A giant metal Domino-looking Digimon is standing in front of the Canyon's mouth. And surely enough, when the Digivice comes up-

Digivice: Dominomon, level:Champion , Attribute: Data, Family: Metal empire. Similar to the Nurikabe yokai, this Digimon enjoys pointlessly standing in the way of travelers. They are not dangerous, but incessantly annoying.

TigerVespamon: We shall wait here until you have gone through. You go on ahead.(This is not good. If that Digimon is what I think it is, then the scouts I sent out, they must have, they must be-).

Takato: Um, excuse me...but... uh... could you...move?

Dominomon: Hnm? What was that?

Terriermon: We said "Can you move your big assout of the way!"

Henry: Hey, watch it, Terriermon.

Terriermon: What, he clearly heard us the first time!

Dominomon: I would like to. But, you see, I can't on account of my condition.

Rika: Condition?

Renamon: What kind of condition?

Dominomon: Oh, it's very common, don't you know-it's called "Idon'tgiveadamn".

The teams stomachs drop. They has not expected such a blunt, not to mention rude, response.

Rika: How freaking rude can you get-!

Renamon holds her back.

Renamon: Let's regroup, the Vespamon can fly us passed it.

Dominomon: I wouldn't suggest that-

Terriermon: Wha-?! Who care's what you think!

Henry puts a hand over his mouth to shut him up.

Henry: Why?

Dominomon: I have a message for you: "Your meddling has grown tiresome. Let us end this-once and for all. We shall be waiting in the clearing to the southeast." The King of Hearts sends his regards.

While they had noticed it at first, but during the course of the fight, they had forgotten it. They had been fighting so hard. KingxCardmon was not present!

Henry: We could still have the Hive fly us passed it...

Rika: And leave the Digimon here and TigerVespamon to deal with the Royal Flush? No!

Henry: Takato.

Takato: We're fighting them.

The children turn back towards Hive's troops and start walking. TigerVespamon is now sure more than ever and responds before the words even come out of the childrens mouths.

TigerVespamon: They are alive.

They nod.

TigerVespamon: Then, our duty is not yet complete-

A message is transmitted to him through his antennas.

Chapter 4:

QueenBeemon: (We are under attack. They have breached the outer walls. I've never seen so many of them. We are holding them back for now but-they must have planned this from the start-)

She is shown on her throne, which is smacking what few SoldierxCardmon and Chippumon have reached her. Judging by the amount of light coming in, it stands to reason that the base has sustained terribble damge. Two ForgeBeemon are keeping her safe, plowing the enemies away with their powerful electric infused arms. Vespamon are flying above, dive bombing the enemy with their swords.

TigerVespamon: We must hurry back to the Honey Base, now!

Rika: But, what's going on?!

TigerVespamon: There is no time-!

QueenBeemon: (No! This is what you've all been trained for- have faith in the hive, have faith in my abilities. Defeat the Royal Flush, that is my order! )

The line cuts.

TigerVespamon: We... have... our orders. We will come with you to end the Flush Army's menace. To war!

The scene opens to the promised clearing and as promised, the Royal Flush's highest ranking members are present. Standing on top of their ever present aircraft. Taking in the scenery, the gang realizes that in the four "Corners" of the forest there are gaping holes. Multiple trees have been cut down by SoldierxCardmon, creating walls on three sides.

KingxCardmon: Ah, so you have come, I applaud your bravery. Surely you realize, this is the only way this can end.

There are several loud thuds behind the children, the SoldierxCardmon cut down the trees behind the Tamers. They are now boxed in.

TigerVespamon: Vile cur-

QueenxCardmon: Watch your tongue, peasant! You are unworthy to even address us!

Taomon: You had the majority of your forces attack the Covert Honey Base while we were distracted...

JackxCardmon: A grand strategy.

KingxCardmon: A simple strategy... You think ill of me, boy?

He is talking to everyone, but seems to be addressing Takato specifically. Perhaps acknowledging him as the leader. The King of Hearts inspects the faces of the enemies before him, making a disgusted, disappointed expression.

KingxCardmon: Do you truly think this is what I want? Death, destruction, mayhem? I do this because it must be done, not because I want it to be done.

QueenxCardmon: Oh, my love-

She says sounding emotional.

WarGrowlmon: Then why do you do it?!

KingxCardmon: "Pearls to the swine". You have scorned my mercy and sought to upend my kingdom. You will never understand...

QueenxCardmon: Atten-tion!

There is a great rumbling from underneath and soon, several round ball-shaped Digimon pop out of the four corners of the arena. They fly high into the air and then fall back down like meteors. They resemble mouthless BigMamemon, but are all different colors, with differing numbers written on them. They are billiard balls! 15 of them. The new foes line up in two perfect horizontal lines, starting off in meditative positions. The digivice calls them Biriyadomon, a japanese pronunciation of Billiard.

KingxCardmon: Ah, good, so you've arrived. I thank you for your promptness. And apologize for the circumstances.

Biriyadomon(Black 8): It is our pleasure to serve you, my liege.

All: Ha-ooh! Ha-ooh! Ha-ooh!

Biriyadomon: Are these who would dare to try the patience of my King?

Rika: We are.

Henry: And we aren't going to stop until all Digimon are free from your tyranny!

He sticks one arm out and points with his finger.

Biriyadomon(Black 8): Let those without knowledge be silent! For it was our king who had opened our eyes to the truth, and freed us from our ignorance! From the fetters that bind! We fight not for the world that is, for in it there is no hope! It is for the world that is to come upon the Kingdoms completion that we do fight!

All: We are one! Individuality is an illusion!

Biriyadomon(Black 8): And what is the kingdom?!

Biriyadomon 1: Honesty!

Biriyadomon 2: Pacifism!

Biriyadomon 3: Purity!

Biriyadomon 4: Patience!

Biriyadomon 5: Forebearance!

Biriyadomon 6: Generosity!

Biriyadomon 7: Wisdom!

Biriyadomon 9: Diligence!

Biriyadomon 10: Renunciation!

Biriyadomon 11: Goodwill!

Biriyadomon 12: Forbidden are the following!

All: No one in the all the Kingdom, from the lowest pauper to his grace, the King, shall under any circumstances: kill, steal, false & malicious speech, engage in sexual misconduct, or consume alcohol!

With this, the spherical Digimon throw their hands up and pull their arms and legs inside of themselves.

QueenxCardmon: Attack!

She waves her arm while standing side ways. After spinning in place for a little while they each take off, bouncing off of the trees and one another. .

Henry: We're going to have to stay on our toes unless we want to get flattened-

Three Vespamon put up their shields to protect the children, forcing the closer to the wall.

TigerVespamon: Do not fear, it is nothing that our shields cannot handle

Rapidmon: Just leave it to us! Rapid Fire!

One of the balls is blasted away, colliding with the one behind it. The one behind it is bashed into the wall on the right. It take a few spins before it dislodges itself.

Taomon: Talisman of Light! Talisman of Light! Talisman of Light!

She faces straight, then left, then right, hitting multiple targets with the same attack. WarGrowlmon catches one of the spheres then tosses underhand with both claws. It bounces off of another, then knicks the red yahtzee spaceship. As it wobbles, QueenXCardmon decides to enter the fray. She jumps from sphere to sphere effortlessly, clearly finding no difficulty balancing despite their being in motion.

Taomon: Brush Stroke!

She smacks a Billiard heading for her and it bangs into the one QueenxCardmon is standing on. The Queen of Spades, barely phased, jumps off ready to cross cut WarGrowlmon. She realizes too late that her targets hands have been turned into drills!

WarGrowlmon: Weren't expecting that, were you?!

She blocks but is ultimately knocked out of the air and onto her back.

WarGrowlmon: Assault Balancer!

KingxCardmon: (I only looked for a few seconds, but, he did not have those hands before-I'm sure of it.)

She has to jump backwards on her rear to avoid being skewerd by a third drill, located on his metal tentacle. Seeing this, KingxCardmon motions with his head and the other two join the battle as well.

Rapidmon: Tri-Beam!

QueenxCardmon: Ah!

She tries rolling but is swept up in the attack anyway. JackxCardmon and 10xCardmon both decide to take on Taomon together. She zips backwards and away at blinding speeds. The two are left standing there, dumbfounded at their weapons, which have missed the target.

KingxCardmon: (Again? What is going on here?!)

Rika: Never thought we would have to go back to using these things!

Henry: Yeah, and I'm sure they weren't expecting it either!

Takato: come on, guys, keep your eyes on the battle!

They both say smiling with new found confidence. It had been so long, they didn't even think about the possibility until now. Mega digivolution had made them unncessary. TigerVespamon drops from the sky.

TigerVespamon: Honey corp Mesiters!

Both are hit point blank with his blades and are launched into oncoming Biriyardomon. The weaker Digimon are killed by the impact, but the two remain among the living. KingxCardmon watches the children, noticing them swiping cards. His cohorts look up at their king, the two over their shoulders and his wife from her place wedged in the walls.

KingXCardmon: Look out, it is the children! They are augmenting their partners somehow!

QueenxCardmon has to pry herself out fast to avoid being struck by WarGrowlmon's claw. Two CannonBeemon fire at the Spaceship and it once again rocks back a forth violently.

KingxCardmon: Enough of this!

He now drops off of his vehicle, reflecting the CannonBeemon's attacks. Their own blast come back at them, blowing a small hole through one and biting a chunk off of the others guns.

KingxCardmon: Enough of these games. I am on to you, children. So this is why you(humans and Digimon) work together!

Taomon, now a bit slower, freezes KingxCardmon's feet to the ground using "Frigimon's Subzero Ice Punch ".

KingxCardmon: No, wait, fools, my feet are frozen, you are going to hit me.

Unable to stop, two Biriyadomon run him over. Rapidmon follows up by puncing on top of him with Snimon: Twin Sickles. The red royal moves his head just enough to avoiding being hit, then kick Rapidmon off of him. But rapidmon comes back stabbing the old man in his shoulders.

KingxCardmon: But I just- (An illusion?!)

The Rapidmon he kicked off of him vanishes and Rapidmon tosses the king against his own battleship.

Rapidmon: It's called the "Alias" cared!

TigerVespamon: You will find that I am a much harder foe for you to defeat-

He kills one of the Biriyadomon as it rolls towards him. Then kills the second coming from the left. As they look around they notice that he has killed a very large chunk of their Biriyadomon allies, atleast eight. JackxCardmon and 10xCardmon actually started to back up at his approach. Intimidated by his confidence and display of power. They look to QueenxCardmon, who is dodging warGrowlmon, who is now firing Shellmon's "Hydro Blaster". Henry tosses a card to Rika and she swipes it. Taomon appears behind the duo, wielding Zudomon's hammer weapon.

Taomon: Forget about me?

Both hard hit with the hammer as she swings left then right. TigerVespamon now sets his sights on KingxCardmon. He flies at him full speed. In the next scene, both of KingxCrownmon's blades are shoved through the commanders chest. The Tamers look on in horror, unable to do anything. He twists the swords before pulling them free.

Renamon: No-

Takato: TigerVespa-mon...

KingxCardmon: Did you honestly think you stood a chance?

Seizing the moment, QueenxCardmon propels herself onto WarGrowlmon's face, hacking and slashing. He rips her off of him and tosses her aside roughly, but the damage is done. Taomon catches JackxCardmon's weapon in her armpit, but is thrust to the ground by 10xCardmon. KingxCardmon, with a wave of his sword, lets out a pink energy wave which knock Rapidmon through the panicked Vespamon. The four Royal Digimon are now Royally pissed off.

KingxCardmon: All of you, to me!

They regroup on top of the ship, holding all their weapons out, overlapping one another. Apparently ready to unleash some special ultimate attack. The Biriyadomon all line up on the far left and right side, out of blast range.

KingxCardmon: You will not impede our great and noble goal!

Henry is the first to notice the light, streadily becoming brighter, heading towards them. But not from KingxCardmon's direction.

Henry: Everybody duck in cover!

A gigantic light blue colored beam of energy is fired from far away.

Biriyadomon(Black 8): My liege!

The remaining Biriyadomon thrown themselves in front of their superiors, but their efforts are in vain. The black 8 Biriyadomon and his cohorts hold on for mere seconds, only long enough to say goodbye.

Biriyadomon(Black 8): It was a pleasure to-serve you, my King-

He give one last tearful smile before exploding into little yellow particles.

KingxCardmon: ...!

The Royal Flush Army is swept up in a bright white light, their visage becoming nothing but black lines. Yet, they are still unmoved. They are trying to resist being blown away by it's sheer force.

Takato: Now!

Taomon: Yes, let's.

WarGrowlmon: I'm ready when you're ready!

Rapidmon: Let's do this!

Takato: You said it, KingxCardmon, "This is the only way this can end".

Taomon/WarGrowlmon/Rapidmon: Trinity Burst!

The extra boost of energy is more than even the combined foes can take. They are launched into the sky above passed the ship, where they are desintegrate, turning from thin black lines to white completely. The king vanishes last.

Royal Flush: Dggghhhhhaaaaa!

The scene changes to a weak and battered QueenBeemon laying against a control panel, breathing heavy. While they seem to have won, it was at an enormous cost. All the power in the base now shuts off, but the Queen give a little grin nonetheless. Looking at the aftermath, there is a gaping melty hole punched through the top and middle of the spacecraft. It is still glowing orange, with steam radiating from it.

Two ForgeBeemon: Torque Stinger!

The wall made of downed trees is toppled over by two ForgeBeemon who have appeared on the scene. Freeing the trapped Tamers. About a half an hour later, after having said farewell to their allies, the Tamers are shown running towards the canyon once more. This time there is no one to block their path.

Henry: There it is!

Terriermon: Ha ha, let's get goin!

Even though it goes beyond their notice, there is a faint clanking sound as they cross the threshold. Ironically, only Guilmon turn around to momentarily take a look.

Takato: You coming, Guilmon?!

Guilmon tilts his head once then follows his friends. The camera zooms in on a dirt on the ground, two eyes can be seen in it and eventually, a rectangular figure. A tiny tear drop is hanging comically from his right eye.

Dominomon: Ow ow ow, jerks.

A quick flashback shows what had happened.

Dominomon: Hrnm? Whas that?

A huge shadow quickly overtakes him. He merely stands his ground, a giant sweat drop on his head, he knows he can't out run it.

Dominomon: (Exhale) ... Damn it.

The the debris falls on top of him and he falls on his back. The invigorated Tamers are running full speed ahead through the canyon. This is when their adventure truly begins. And with it, the search for the Dark Crests. The scene cuts to a boy, a DJ, of similar age(appearance wise) to Takato, Henry, and Rika. He has light tannish skin, a backwards black cap with a red brim, black heart shaped shades with red lenses, red armbands, red pants and a black t-shirt(with a white Heartless emblem from Kingdom hearts on it). He is scratching two disks in a dark room, a dirty window in the back lets a little orange sunlight in. Revealing that he is on a short mezzazine. (All the while Eminem's "Lose Yourself" plays in the background)

?: Check'it, aw, yeah, Yeah, YEAH-GO!

Below the mezzazine three figures can be made out in the dark, break-dancing. One is a tall black man, with long dark brown dread-lock hair, rhombus yellow shades, a short soulpatch, baggy golden-yellow pants and a matching tall wool hat, golden dog-tags, and a piercing through his one nostril. Like the boy "upstairs", the girl is shorter and younger looking. She has blue or perhaps purple lipstick on, round shades, violet pants, black armbands and an Alfalfa lavender-grey hair style. The third is squattier than the black man, but still taller than the other two. He has orange hair and a matching goatee, giving a bit of a leprechaun vibe. His pants are brown, his wool hat(Which is pulled down over his eyes), arm bands and vest-hoodie are all green. His square white shutter shades sit on his forehead. He also has a silver clover necklace. The screen cuts just as they finish their dance in the dark. Each making "Ghetto" hand signs.

Guilmon: Run, Takato!

Renamon: Rika-!

Henry: (We can't get away in time-!) Terriermon-!

Terriermon: Henryyyyyyyyy!

As the Tamers come out the other end of the canyon they are assaulted by familiar beams of light. The kind they had seen the first time they visited the Digital World on their own Server. Takato and Henry are swept up by one, Rika and Renamon by another, and Guilmon and Terriermon by a third. Renamon Digivolves to Taomon, shielding Rika by scooping her into her arms.

Chapter 5:

Rika: hhhhh-wah?

A rather random memory plays in Rika's mind. She is in the Digital World, talking to Wraith through the laptop ECO gave them. She hears herself speak, even though she is seeing everything through her own eyes.

Rika: So, how are things going?

Wraith's expression looks the same as ever, but their is a stress mark on the right corner of his head pulsing.

Wraith: If things keep going like this, I might have to kill him again. Hiromi was never this annoying...

Takumi is goofily gnawing on various parts on her boyfriends body, popping up in a different spot every few seconds. Hiromi is shown sneezing miles away, standing on a street corner.

Rika: You better not, how would I explain it to my Mom? And besides-I'd never speak to you again.

The tone in Rika's voice suggests that the two are flirting more than being serious. But wraith really is annoyed. Takumi stops biting Wraith, instead poking him with his finger.

Takumi: Hey, what do you mean you killed me? That didn't happen. Hey, are you even listening to me? That nev-er hap-pened. Hey listen, hey, why aren't you listening?! Huh huh huh? Listen me, please. He-llo.

Rika: Just hold on a bit longer-I'll be home soon.

She smiles at him and that is when her eyes open to a sorching sun in a desert of yellow sand. Hot wind blows by, carrying grains of sand with it. Rika is on her stomach, apparently having passed out. Renamon is awakes moments later, getting off her back.

Taomon: Where are we?

The scene cuts to Takato and Henry, who awake in a dark, slightly damp cave.

Henry: Takato, you there?

Takato: Right here, Henry. Ooy(Cracks his back), where do you think we are? You think the others are okay?

Henry: Let's worry about us first. There's a good chance we're going to be stuck here a while-

At first the two "kids" can't see anything, but after looking around, they notice a pair of luminous yellow mushrooms. The duo is situated next to a large vaguely dome shaped rock, The duo only realizes this after a line of marching Gotsumon come by with a lantern, chanting "Hut hut hut hut hut". The light illuminates the path the Gotsumon are walking on. One of them suddenly stops and peaks in the nook.

Gostumon: Huh? Hey, guys! Come here, quick! There are some visitors!

He looks closer with shock.

Gotsumon: I think they're human!

The two are led through various passages, as they walk they notice many curious things. For starters, the cieling has a glowy aqua-green colored slime. The Gotsumon who found them is nice enough to act as their tour guide.

Gotsumon: If you ever get lost, just remember to follow the slime. It'll take you home every time!

Gotsumon 2: You know, it's kinda funny that we ran into you two.

Gotsumon 3: We almost never get any visitors down here. Too deep underground.

Takato looks at the ground, the path they are are following is made of loose grey gravel. Henry looks cieling and the sides of the floor over as they go by. The cave has more than a few sea anemone's of different color, purple coral, red sea whip, plumed-anemone and the like.

Gotsumon: This place never floods, if that's what you're afraid of.

Takato: (So, we aren't under the ocean-that's a relief)But, those are sea plants-

Gotsumon: Pretty cool, huh?

Gotsumon leader: Whelp, here we are!

The Tamers come out into an open chamber, huge, bigg enough to hold a-

Takato: Wow, a whole village!

The village is stunningly beautiful, though in a more abstract sense. Owed in most part to the hundreds of different glowing mushrooms scattered about among it's thick stalactites and fat mounds on it's cieling: orange and yellow mostly. Below in what could be seen as the "streets" there are a few red, pink, yellow, light green and purple. One Gotsumon is directing traffic with glowing yellow rocks sticks.

Gotsumon Leader: This way, come on!

He waves the boys on and they are ushered into the middle most point of the village. Once there, they realize that many of these "Gotsumon" aren't what they are used to. They are made of Igneous, Sedimentary, & Metamorphic! They aren't the same color or the same texture. Upon invintation, they sit down in front of a pile of some sort of perpetually burning rocks. They are warm but give off no smoke. Twelve particularly special Gotsumon show up to greet the human arrivals.

Gotsumon(Reddish-pink): Oh, visitors! Hello, and welcome to our village, please, make yourselves at home!

Henry: Uh, thanks...

He is too preoccupied with what they look like to give much of a response. These Twelve are made of precious stones: Carnelian, Topaz, Carbuncle, Turquoise, Lapis Lazuli, Diamond, Opal, Agate, Amethyst, Beryl, Onyx, and Jasper. Together, they seem to form some kind of leadership in the community.

Gotsumon(Carnelian): You-did remember to vet them, right?

Gotsumon 2: Why would we do that? They are humans, besides, it's not like we found them above ground. So we know they aren't dangerous...

He waves his hand dismissively.

Gotsumon(Carnelian): Yeah, I suppose you're right. Well, we must be going, see ya!

As they turn to leave, a shorter, more feminine Gotsumon comes into view. She lingers for a little while, staring at the interesting strangers. She appears to be made of Glass, a head veil on her head adorned with an Eilat Stone.

Henry: Well, hi there-

He waves to her and she blushes.

Gotsumon(glass): Um-uh, I-I h-have t-to go!

When she realizes that she is being left behind, she give a quick bow, before she speeds after her brothers.

Gotsumon: So, I suppose you're wonderin what that was about, huh? (Exhale) Well, I guess I might as well start with why we're down here. You see, in these parts, Gotsumon are considered valuable. Digimon from all over began hunting us down and capturing us, so we could be sold off to the highest bidder. Sometimes, piece by piece...

Takato: (So those twelve are the most valuable, and in the most danger). That's... horrible.

Henry: So you're hiding to survive.

Gotsumon 1: But that's when we found this place! Pretty nice, huh?! Plenty of food and water, and best of all-no one can find us!

Takato: Hey, what's the matter?

Gotsumon 2: It's just, this place is pretty great, and the mushrooms are really pretty...but sometimes a really miss the sun.

With that, they all put their heads down.

Gotsumon 3: It's been months now.

Henry: H-How did you guy's find this place?

This perks them up a bit.

Gotsumon: Oh, that's easy-

Gotsumon 4: We share the underground with a nice bunch of Mushroomon!

Gotsumon 3: They showed us where this place was!

Henry: Where do they live?

Gotsumon 5: They're our neighbors! They live in a chamber way on the other side of the underground.

Gotsumon 6: In fact, they still come over here every once in a while to check on us.

Takato: Why?

Gotsumon 2: Well, to take a census & trader mostly...

Henry: Why do they care how many of you there are?

Gotsumon 3: Don't know, maybe so they know how much to trade. Is something wrong?

Henry: No...no. Just thinking.

The scene changes to Guilmon and Terriermon, both of which awake to blackness. Terriermon blinks a few times but can only barely make out rows and rows of trunks. But to what he can't say. A flashligh shines directly at them. The light reveals that the trunks do not belong to trees, but to extremely tall mushrooms. These apparently don't glow in the dark.

Mushroomon 1: Who's there?! What are you doing in here?!

Terriermon instinctively throws his hands up like a criminal who has been apprehended by the police.

Terriermon: We didn't do anything! You see-we were swept up in one of those pillars of light do-hickeys and then we woke up here!

Guilmon: W-what's...going on?

Mushroomon 2: What is it?!

Mushroomon 1: I caught these two trying to steal our mushrooms! Get up you!

The first pokes Guilmon in the nose with the flashlight. The second Mushroomon exchanges glances with the first.

Mushroomon 2: It doesn't look like they are trying to steal anything. Look at them, their completely confused.

Mushroomon 1: Maybe you're right. But, you can't be too careful these days.

Mushroomon 2: (Nods) Hey, you two. Sorry, about all that.

Mushroomon 1: Yeah.

Mushroomon 2: Come, follow us, we'll take you to our village.

As they walk they see multiple Mushroomon working feverishly. They are hitting the walls with pick-axes and pushing minecarts full of rock.

Terriermon: Everybody sure is working hard. What are you guys doing?

Mushroomon 1: What a dumb question.

Mushroomon 2: We're digging for precious minerals and stones, of course.

Guilmon: Oh, I thought maybe, you were making more tunnels, you know, to make more space for you to live.

A sweat drop forms on the back of the one Mushroomon's head as his buddy chuckles at him. Guilmon had made a logical alternative assertion, making him look stupid. He turns around and starts yelling.

Mushroomon 1: Shut up!(To other Mushroomon). What, are you calling me an idiot, or something?! You picking a fight-?!

The Mushroomon's friend nudges him and he quickly turns back around.

Mushroomon 2: Keep going, we're almost there.

As the village comes into view, Guilmon and Terriermon are met with a city far larger, and more self-aggrandizing city. It, however, doesn't have a single glowing mushroom...so to speak. All the buildings are shaped like, you guessed it, mushrooms. This place has lights, electricity even.

Mushroomon 1: Yup, pretty great place we got here.

Walking through the streets, the duo notices strange automobiles. They are rock balls with four holes for windows. The side windows a large but the front and back are smaller. Somehow, they manage to roll forward, while the "Cockpit & steering wheel", not to mention it's passanger, stay in the same spot. Another "Car" bashes into the one in front of it.

Mushroomon driver 1: Hey, watch what you're doing, idiot! I'm drivin here!

Mushroomon driver 2: Ah, screw you, butt-breath.

Terriermon: Charming city...

As Guilmon looks around, he notices that the Mushroomon don't really interact with one another. They barely even look at one another. Rather, they just walk right passed each other withour saying a word. And the ones that are talking, don't seem to really being paying a whole lot of attention to what the other one is saying. Tapping their one foot, or looking away from the other with their arms crossed.

Mushroomon 1: Well, we're here! Home sweet home-

Terriermon: Dah?!

Guilmon: Huh, what is it?

Terriermon notices "Wanted" posters of him, Guilmon, and Renamon on the walls just next to the doors. He rips as many of them off the wall as he can and starts crumpling them into a ball.

Terriermon: Never mind that, just grab as many as you can and tear em up! Quick!

Mushroomon 2: What's all this about? Huh?

He picks one up and backhand smacks it dismissively.

Mushroomon 2: Pfft, oh, it's just these things. We got them all over the place. Don't worry, there are hundreds of Guilmon and Terriermon in the Digital World. Why would it be talkin about you two? You don't have a Renamon with you. And it's not like you've done anything, right? Come on inside.

The four open the double doors and take and elevator up into the apartment.

Mushroomon 1: Welcome to our bachelor pad! Feel free to sleep wherever you want, as long as it's the couch-

Mushroomon 2: Bro, they're our guests. Feel free to use our beds. We're just going to step out for a bit for some little late night fun. Enjoy.

Terriermon: Uh... thanks.

Takato and Henry are welcomed into one of the Gotsumon homes for the night. Not that you can really tell it's night time when you are underground. They aren't particularly comfortable houses for humans, but their host does the best he can. Giving them fur rugs to lie on, which make for a semi-comfortable mattress.

Gotsumon: Goodnight, well, probably(Night) anyway. See ya in the morning!

Henry: Hey, Takato, you awake?

Takato: Yes. Can't sleep?

Henry: Nah, too much energy. Been having weird dreams too.

Takato: Bad ones?

Henry: No, memories.

Takato: You mean-you dreamt about memories.

Henry: No, I dreamt the memories exactly how they happened.

Takato now sits up in bed, interested, eyes widening.

Takato: Was it about the time we all got together and-

Henry: Went to the Hot Springs?(!)-looks like we both had the same dream.

Dreaming memories exactly how they happened is not normal and they both know it. When ir comes to dreams, there is always nonse mixed in. Something odd is happening here.

Takato: Huh, I wonder if Rika and the others had the same dream...Do you think we'll find one of the Dark Crests here?

Takato: It's a cave...I don't know, maybe. One things for sure, if it has an effect on those around it-the Gotsumon definitely don't have it.

Henry: That's for sure.

Meanwhile, Guilmon and Terriermon have taken to the streets. Despite what they were told, there is not a single other "Wanted" poster to be seen. Terriermon takes note of this.

Guilmon: Why are we out here? Shouldn't we be asleep?

Terriermon: Well, you wanna find Takato, don'tcha?

Guilmon: Yeah.

Terriermon: Good, and I want to find Henry.

Guilmon: Hey, Terriermon? Did you see any more of those "Wanted" posters?

Terriermon: Nope. Have seen a single sheet since we left the apartment.

He says with his hands behind his head. He jumps onto a nearby railing, balance-walking across it.

Guilmon: Doesn't that feel a little...suspicious?

Terriermon: Of course it's suspicious. Those two Mushroomon are suspicious, this whole city is suspicious if you ask me. I don't trust either of those two. They are both hiding something, the one's just a little better at pretending(To be nice). The question is...what's in it for them?

Guilmon: ...What about the Dark Crests? Shouldn't we look for it?

Terriermon: Oh, that's right, we're in a cave, which happens to be gloomy. So, naturally, we're just going to happen across this super important relic by walking around aimlessly-

He says sarcastically. Just then they come across a power structure. It appears to be what is giving this place it's energy. Terriermon's mouth hangs open.

Guilmon: You don't think that's the Crest do you?

Terriermon: Well, it has the "Broken Heart" we're looking for-but it's huge! How are we gonna carry that thing around?!

It is a absolutely colossal Dark Red slab with a broken heart glyph carved onto it.

Guilmon: Maybe it shrinks down so it can fit into the Tag?

He says smiling, tail wagging fast excitedly. Terriermon gives him a "That's stupid look", then drops his head and exhales.

Terriermon: -You know what, you're probably right. Come on, we better get back before the Mushroomon notice we're gone.

Next morning, Terriermon and Guilmon, along with multiple Mushroomon(including the two they met yesterday) travel through a passage. They are on their way to visit a Gotsumon village, apparently living nearby, relatively speaking. The trek takes about a half an hour to forty minutes.

Mushroomon 2: You two gave us quite a scare last night, when we came home and you weren't there!

Mushroomon 1: Yeah, you came back later than we did, good thing we offerred you our beds. You barely used em...

His buddy or perhaps...brother, nudges him again.

Mushroomon 2: Anyway, we're glad you made it back safe. It's easy to get yourself lost in a big city like ours.

Terriermon: You know, we were walking around last night and-we didn't see any of those posters you mentioned.

The two Mushroomon give each other glances.

Mushroomon 1: Well, that's because we went out last night and nabbed them all.

Mushroomon 2: Yeah, we thought it was the right thing to do.

Mushroomon 3: Would you two shut it?! Geez yak yak yak, I can't hear myself think!

Mushroomon 2: My apologies, we had no idea we were being so loud. We'll try to keep it down from now on, okay?

He says, putting a hand to his shoulder and bowing his head.

The Mushroomon ahead of them gives a look of confusion and annoyance, shakes his head back and forth, and looks back ahead.

Mushroomon 2: Now, when we get there, we have a little surprise in store. So, I hope you like it!

Takato and Henry, after eating an edible kind of rock for breakfast, which tasted like burnt hashbrowns, decide to take a walk around the city. As they do, they notice two Gotsumon running down the stairs, holding hands. Other Gotsumon are throwing pebbles in the air. It would seem Takato and Henry just witnessed the aftermath of a wedding. The two boys eyes glisten.

Henry: No matter how matter how many of these I've seen, it never loses it's magic.

The camera zooms in on Takato first, who mentally replaces the two Gotsumon with him and Jeri running down the stairs.

(Kingdom Hearts 3: Don't think twice Instrumental plays)

Henry: No one forgets their first wedding...

The happy couple hurries down the steeple stairs, Henry dressed in a snazzy suit, Naiyuta in a beautiful white dress.

Henry: Or their second...

The scene shows Alice walking down the aisle in a white wedding dress different from Naiyuta's.

Henry: Now, I can't exactly tell you why, but for some reason, there were a lot of weddings that year...

The next set of scenes jumps between various male characters from the Digimon franchise, everyone from Tai to Wraith. Each waiting at the end of the aisle, ready to take the hand of which they will never let go.

Henry: Some were expected...

It shows Matt and Sora, Izzi and Mimi, Yolei and Ken, Tai and Meiko.

Henry: ...others took us a bit by surprise.

Amaya and Kenta are shown running down the steeple steps together.

Henry: There is a saying in Japan "born Shinto, marry Christian, and die Buddhist." Christian weddings have become increasingly popular over the years and we all had one. Well, most of us...

The final flashback shows Ryo and Nene having a traditional Shinto Marriage rather than a Christian one. Taiki and Akari did the same, though, they had it held in a park, surrounded by nature. Takato and Henry are pulled back to reality when the Gotsumon who took them in for the night runs up to them. He is excited about something.

Gotsumon: The Mushroomon have arrived!

Everyone, even the newlyweds, rush over to the Mushroomon. One of the Mushroomon comes up and shakes hands with the Gotsumon(Turquoise). The Gotsumon(Onyx) is on his left and the Gotsumon(Carnelian) is on his right, apparently the three make up the leadership of the community.

Mushroomon: So, about that census?

The one made of Carnelian is the eldest, the one made of Onyx the wisest, and the one made of Turquoise, the leader. The rest of the brothers and their sister are being led in a prayer or blessing by the Gotsumon made of Emerald. He must be the religious leader, though, the resident humans have no idea what he might be praying to.

Guilmon: Takatooooooo!

Takato: G-Guilmon?! No way!

Guilmon throws his hands on Takato's shoulders and Takato puts his hands on Guilmons cheeks affectionately.

Henry: Terriermon?!

Terriermon: Henryyyyyyyy!

Henry and Terriermon spin in a circle together.

Henry: How did you find us?

Terriermon: Well...

The two Mushroomon, now behind them, walk closer.

Mushroomon 2: Oh, such a touching reunion-

Mushroomon 1: Yeah, I-I think I got something in my eye...

There is a pause.

Lead Mushroomon: How many of you have we saved now exactly? Would you say, there are still a few that need rescuing?

Gotsumon(Turquoise): Why, no, every Gotsumon on the Server is safe, sound, and accounted for.

Lead Mushroomon: Oh, that's good, that's good. So it would be safe to say, they are all here currently?

Gotsumon(Turquoise): Yes, and it's all thanks to you, I can't thank you kind Mushroomon enough. Without your efforts and generosity, this never could have been accomplished!

Mushroomon 1: Too bad it's not gonna last long!

The camera zooms in on the Mushroomon talking to Takato and Co.

Lead Mushroomon: Oh, don't thank us, just yet-NOW!

He whips out a walkie, yelling into it, a thumb pressed on a button. The ceiling of the cave is suddenly and unexpectedly blown away, shards of rock debris rains down from above. A large net comes down, capturing all the most precious Gotsumon inside. Immediately after, several more, smaller nets come down, capturing the other unsuspecting Gotsumon. Most of them are regular Gotsumon, but others are the sedimentary, igneous, and metamorphic type. Having just missed being captured, the glass Gotsumon tries to run away, but is nabbed by a Mushroomon.

Gotsumon(Turquoise): What a-are you doing?!

Lead Mushroomon: What does it look like?

Gotsumon(Turquoise): B-But we trusted you, and we were nothing but kind to you!

Lead Mushroomon: Tsch, and it's exactly that kind talk that makes us hate you Gotsumon so much. Always so "Goody-goody", always so "perfect"... like you're better than everyone else! It's annoying! ...Everything's ready down here, come and get them.

A pack of twelve or more Callismon, apparently the buyers, are shown above ground, ready drop down by rope.

Callismon: You heard em, boys! Let's get down there and get this done with!

Mushroomon 1: How stupid can you get?!

Takato: You're after the Gotsumon?!

Terriermon: And they brought us all together, so they could sell us for the reward money all at once.

Henry chuckles, taking pleasure in what he is about to do.

Henry: Hnh, well guess what, we know something you don't.

Mushroomon 2: Yeah, and what's that?

Guilmon: The Royal Flush Army is gone.

Henry: We defeated them. A while ago now. So you-

Terriermon: -ain't gettin squat for us!

The gang laughs with spiteful laughter. The two Mushroomon on the other hand, are not so amused. They grit their teeth, balling their fists, literally shaking with anger.

Mushroomon 2: So, let me get this straight, first you try to steal our mushrooms and now, you aren't even worth anything?!

Terriermon: Afraid so.

Mushroomon 1: Alright, let's kill em instead!

Mushroomon 2: Fine by me.

While they get in fighting stances initially, they sit there for a few seconds, sweat drops form on their heads.

Mushroomom 1: Uh, wait, bro...didn't they say they-

Mushroomon 2: Defeated the-Royal Flush?!

Both: Oh-oh, runawaaaaaayyyyy!

The two take off into one of the tunnels, running for their lives. Hands waving in the air.

Takato: You know, it was basically QueenBeemon that finished the Royal Flush Army, not us...

Henry: Yeah, it was kind of a lie, but we helped, and it worked, didn't it?

Takato: Now we can focus on saving the Gotsumon.

Terriermon: Eeek! I almost forgot, Henry, we found the first Dark Crest!

Henry: That can wait, right now we have to stop these Callismon.

Three of them drop down using ropes.

Callismon: This all of them?

Lead Mushroomon: All here, as promised. Now, about your part of the contract-

Callismon: Oh, yes, the contract, about that. There has been a little change in plans-

There is a short pause as he scratches the back of his head.

Callismon: Deep forest.

The Lead Mushroomon is reduced to data with a single swipe, his walkie is flung to the ground.

Callismon: Sorry, nothing personal, it's just business...

Gotsumon(Turquoise): Run while you still can!

Mushroomon 1: T-Those bastards, betrayed us!

Callismon 2: Correction, rich bastards. Thanks for the help, Heh heh.

Mushroomon 2: Grrrrrr-you're not gonna get away with this! Let's get em, guys!

All Mushroomon: Mushroomon Mash!

The angry Mushroomon bombard the three Callismon with their bombs, but they explode against them uselessly. All they manage to do is annoy the wolves, who calmly block the attacks.

Takato: Looks like they trusted the wrong Digimon too... let's go after the Gotsumon now, while they are distracted.

Takato/Henry: Digivolve, Guilmon! Digivolve, Terriermon!

Guilmon: Guilmon, digivolves to...WarGrowlmon!

Terriermon: Terriermon, digivolves...Rapidmon!

Mushroomon 3: Y-You had enough yet?

They say, breathing heavy.

Callismon 2: Ha ha ha.

Gotsumon(Turquoise): Please, they are going to kill you-!

The Mushroomon keep ignoring the Gotsumon's advice. Though, deep down they seem to know, they are looking a bit nervous now.

Mushroomon 1: Alright, then-how about this?!

All Mushroomon: Super Shock-

Callismon 3: This has ceased to be entertaining-

One of the Callismon raises his arm, about to use his "Deep Forest" attack to kill the lot of them. But that is when WarGrowlmon speeds in front of them, kicking up dust. Bear hugs all three of the foes at once. They try to fight passed him, but struggle to do so.

Takato: Grrraaaaaahhhh! Henry, you two go after the Crest.

Rapidmon: Are you sure?

WarGrowlmon: We'll handle this-go!

Henry: Alright, come on, Rapidmon

The Mushroomon watch the duo as it takes off into a tunnel.

Mushroomon 1: Huh, what's that guy think he's doin?

Mushroomon 2: I-I think they're trying to save us...

Mushroomon 3: Well, no one asked you to...

Takato: We know...

WarGrowlmon: But it's the right thing to do.

Mushroomon 3: This still doesn't change anything, you know! We don't owe you-! Let's get outta here.

One of the Mushroomon looks back at the Gotsumon in the nets, with their pleading eyes. He ponders it, seemingly regretfully, but follows the others through the tunnel just the same. Henry and Rapidmon are shown running down the tunnel, WarGrowlmon can be seen tail whipping the Callismon to the ground. In the next scene, Rapidmon and Henry have just finished running through the city. They are steps away from reaching the Dark Crest of Hate.

Henry: This is it?

Rapidmon: Yeah.

Henry: It's colossal...how are we going "radiation blade" attacks.

Mushroomon 2: Isn't that one of those douche bags that saved us?!

Mushroomon 1: Hey, stop! What do you think you're doing with our power source?!

He says pointing a finger at them.

Head Callismon: (These guy's are Tamers, maybe even Digi-destined. We weren't supposed to have to fight someone like this. And they can reach Mega level. So if I send more of us down there, they'll just be killed too.) Well, I wanted to wait a little while longer before surprising the Mushroomon with this...but seeing as we aren't going to be getting what we came for-

He hits a switch on a black rectangular box.

Head Callismon: But before we go, consider this is pay back for what you put us through, Mushroomon.

That is when, in the Mushroomon city, a cylindrical building, seemingly built around the caves main support beam, comes crashing down. Flames burst forth from every window in the building, shattered glass rains down onto the on lookers.

Mushroomon 1: Quick, follow us, douchebags!

Mushroomon 2: We'll get you out of here before this place collapses!

Rapidmon: We don't have any time! Hold it up, it will shrink in order to fit inside!

Henry grits his teeth.

Henry: (I hope this works)

Sure enough, as he holds up the tag the slab glows a bright red before shrinking down into the now shining tag.

Rapidmon: We got it! Now let's get out of here before we get flattened!

Mushroomon 1: Come on, come on, let's go!

The frightened Mushroomon struggle for the exits, many are crushed by falling rock. Not surprisingly, they immediately resort to pushing, punching, and stomping each other.

Mushroomon 2: They stole the power source-!

Mushroomon 1: And, who cares?! In a matter of seconds there isn't going to be anything to power! Just keep running, numbskull!

Henry and Rapidmon get pulled into the tunnel by the rude Mushroomon mere seconds before the chamber collapses. By some miracle, the majority of the cities populace does make it out. The lesser pillars must have done their jobs.

WarGrowlmon: What was that?

Both Takato and WarGrowlmon turn to look in the sounds direction. Even from such a distance, it can be heard clear as day.

Takato: WarGrowlmon-!

A smug Callismon has used the distraction to his advantage, snatching one of the nets. He is pulled up rather quickly by an electric pulley system.

Gotsumon: No! Help us, please!

WarGrowlmon: Megalo-

Takato: No! If you do that... you might hurt them.

He says, defeatedly. Even if the attack was aimed at the rope, the damage to the ceiling would no doubt do harm to the other Gotsumon below or the ones in the net the Callismon is carrying. The Mushroomon come pouring in, coughing and wheezing.

Takato: Henry, Rapidmon...

The two concentrate on the tunnel which is belching dust and smoke. Finally, Henry and Terriermon come out.

Takato: Henry-

Takato puts his hands on his friends shoulders, inspecting whether he is alright.

Henry: (cough) Don't worry (Cough) we got it!

He holds up the Tag, which now carries a little dark red Crest inside.

Henry: And you?

Takato and WarGrowlmon both look ashamed.

Takato: They got away with one of the nets...

Henry looks around, seeing the glass Gotsumon cut open the net her siblings are trapped in. She is quickly hugged by her Turquoise brother. He motions and the others hurry to the remaining nets to help free them. The Mushroomon look back at the black smoke mournfully.

Mushroomon 1: Our homes, they're...gone.

Mushroomon 2: Maybe, this is our own fault.

Mushroomon 3: For what we did to the Gotsumon.

Henry speaks with the Gotsumon leader, apparently explaining something about the Crest. The Mushroomon steady themselves as they see the Gotsumon(Turquoise) come towards them. They are shocked when he holds out a hand.

Gotsumon(Turquoise): You can live with us...if you like.

Gotsumon(Glass): Yeah, we can build a new home together!

All Mushroomon: (Gasp!)

Mushroomon 1: Even after everything we did? You're telling me, you're just going to forgive it all, just like that?

Gotsumon(Turquoise): We know it was because you were affected by the relic. The boy explained everything to me.

The Mushroomon, who seems to have become their speaker, looks to the side. He wants to be honest, but is ashamed to say this out loud.

Mushroomon 1: No, the Crest doesn't make you feel anything that's not already there. We couldn't stand you, we hated you because...because you were so much better than us. We were were so mean and nasty, not just to everyone else, but even each other. And we...un-understand if you kick us out after we say this bu-

The Gotsumon leader take the Mushroomon's hand and take in both of his.

Gotsumon(Turquoise): You are forgiven.

With this the Mushroomon all start tearing up. The speaker Mushroomon rubs his eyes with his arm.

Mushroomon 1: Th-Thank you! Thank you so much! We promise, we will work together to build a better future. And I'm not saying it's going to be quick or easy-but let's make it one without hate!

Mushroomon: Yeeeeeaaaaaaaahhhhh!

Takato, Guilmon, Henry, and Terriermon watch this heartwarming scene with fascination.

Henry: (I guess it's true what they say... love is stronger than hate.)

Above, the Callismon eagerly carry away their booty into the sunset.

Callismon 1: All that for just one net, I'm not sure this was worth it.

Lead Callismon: At least we got away with something.

Gotsumon: Please, just let us go!

Callismon 2: Shut it, brats!

He says smacking the net full of whimpering Gotsumon.

Lead Callismon: Hnm? And who might you be?

Callismon: Out of the way, unless you want to die!

Two figures cut them off, one a Tortoise, the other, a Chevrotain. The Digivice refers to them as WuPanmon and WuChaimon respectively.

WuChaimon: That is quite the insolent tongue for one to use-

WuPanmon: -when addressing two of the Twelve Asura Generals.

The leader Callismon now looks horrified, shaking with fear. Before they can even respond further, the two slaughter the band of thieves, releasing the hostages.

Chapter 6:

Rika, once again peers into the laptop to talk with Wraith.

Rika: Hey, Wraith, I thought I would check up on how things are going...

She her eyes shift back and forth, clearly looking for something.

Rika: Where is Takumi? You were supposed to watch him for me!

Wraith: I got someone to cover for me.

The scene cuts to the little boy sitting on the couch, humorously, being stared down by Wrinklemon. He is acting as an overzealous guard dog, not even letting him get up from the couch. The boy keeps glancing at the dog nervously, he starts to scoot a little.

Wrinklemon: Grrrrr...grrrrrrr... WOOF WOOF!

Takumi: B-But I have to peeeeeee!

Rika: (Exhale) Well, as long as he's safe I suppose...how are you doing?

The scene cuts to Takumi standing infront of the toilet nervously. He wants to "go" but can feel the giant bulldog staring at him from outside the door.

Wrinklemon : WOOF WOOF!

Takumi: Ah!

Narrowly avoids peeing his pants, the boy fumbles with his zipper and starts to relieve himself. Back at the laptop, Wraith doesn't say anything, but looks to the side. Rika gets the picture, he misses her. She puts a hand to the screen and smiles and he does the same, without smiling. Back in reality, Rika trudges through a sand storm, Taomon blocking the brunt of it by walking ahead. She turns her mind inward, she doesn't know why, but she has been doing that a lot lately. This one takes place sometime after she had returned home from the Digital World. She is rummaging through a box, her and Wraith have been babysitting Takumi. Renamon is leaning against a wall with her arms crossed.

Takumi: Hey, big sis, wanna take a bath with me?!

Renamon closes her eyes, probably thinking something like "oh, here we go...".

Rika: Uh, no-o.

Takumi: Why not? Your Mom and the old lady do! They have big chichi's, not like you!

He says making squishy hand gestures with both hands. Rika picks her head up from the box and shivers. She imagines Takumi rubbing his cheek against her mothers breasts while hugging her, and squeezing her grandmothers breasts. That is something she doesn't want to picture and didn't want to know.

Rika: Because you're a perverted little boy.

Takumi: I was just practicing my "Towel stealing Jutsu"! heh ha!

He says making a perfect Naruto ninja hand sign. Clearly referring to the hot spring incident.

Takumi: And besides, I'm not supposed to take one alone...

Renamon: He's right, Rika.

Rika: Look, two people of different genders aren't supposed to bath together.

Rika is getting annoyed now, partially because she knows he isn't supposed to bathe by himself. Which puts her in a bit of a predicament. Wraith has been sitting there without saying anything, just watching things unfold. He's a boy. Before she can stop herself, she let's out the question.

Rika: (Exhale) Wraith-

Without even having to turn around, she can feel Wraith's malevolent glare boring into the back of her head. She imagines Purple-black aura radiating from him like fire, his eyes glowing like fire. Despite where she is right now, she smiles as the memory reaches a close. The incident was actually quite hilarious in retrospect. Renamon ultimately ended up doing it for the two of them. Being a Digimon, an anthropomorphic fox, she isn't bothered by nudity. Rika has to squint to keep the sand from entering her eyes. She retreats back into her memories to escape this unpleasantness. In said daydream, Rika walks through the front door. She is about to head for her room when her grandmother stops her.

Seiko: Oh, Rika, that boy stopped by. I think he left something for you in the living room.

Rika: What?

Her grandmother shrugs, but with a smile. The redhead Tamer and Renamon, stop by the living room, where a present has been left for her. A present, in the form of a fluffy white rabbit with a pink bow around it. After the shock wears off, she picks up the little card nearby. It reads simply "For you" and a date. She and Renamon both bend down and look the bunny in the eyes. It simply hops closer to them, almost touching her face. One thing is for sure, Wraith had definitely domesticated this thing, before handing it off to his girlfriend. It has no instincts to speak of, it's not even afraid of humans or even Renamon. Takumi hurries in.

Takumi: Cool, a bunny! What's it's name?!

Renamon picks up the note and hands it to Rika.

Rika: It doesn't say. I guess we're supposed to name it.

Seiko: What a lovely gift. Is something the matter?

Rika: It's, just, I can't shake the feeling that he gave this to me for a reason.

She says, crinkling her brow while looking at the card.

Renamon: Maybe it is just a "Welcome back" present.

She shakes her head.

Rika: No, that was almost a full week ago...

Rika looks at the date one more time, realizes that it is not today's. She closes her eyes, but they fly open quick.

Renamon: What is it?

Rika: It's the anniversary of the first day we met. What am I going to do? I didn't get him anything.

A quick succession of flashback images show him saving her from MarineiceDevimon.

Seiko: Well, what kind of things does he like?

Rika: I-I don't know. He doesn't open up about himself much...

Renamon and Seiko Hata look at one another and nod, both have the same idea.

Seiko: Maybe you could try asking his mother?

The next scene shows her at Wraith's mother's apartment. Rika walks up to Wraith's mother, clearly a bit uncomfortable.

Rika: Excuse me, M-Ma'am. There's something I want to talk to you about, if that's okay... in private.

The smiling older woman reaches out and puts her hands on Rika's cheeks affectionately.

Wraith's Mom: Why, of course, sweety. We can talk just as soon as I'm done with the boys lunch, okay?

Wraith: Mom.

Wraith tries to remind his mother about boundaries. A blushing Rika pulls away fast but gently. Hoping she didn't come off rude doing so.

Rika: Th-thank you.

tilts her head to the side, putting a hand to the side of her face. She is smiling with her eyes shut.

Wraith's Mom: Oh, I'm sorry, I overstepped, didn't I? I still just can't get over how cute your girlfriend is! I guess I'm a bit excited that she's going to be my daughter-in-law...

Wraith's mother is super sweet and old. And all that aside, she needs her right now. So despite her embarrassment, Rika just tries to avoid eye contact. hands her son a plate of grilled cheese and tomato soup. Then kisses him on the cheek and rubs the back of his head briefly before walking away. Surprisingly, he doesn't recoil, rather, his eyes soften for a moment. Perhaps he realized that she won't be around forever, or maybe it's just because no one else(Other than Rika) is around. Rika and Ms. Mconnelly converse privately on the other side of the wall.

Wraith's Mom: You wanted to talk with me?

Rika: He bought me a rabbit for our anniversary. But I forgot about it completely. I feel really bad and...

Wraith's Mom: Does Andrew-?

Rika: He doesn't know. I want to surprise him with something special. But the problem is, I don't know much about him other than his favorite color and that he loves Chicken parmesan and egg noodles...is there anything else you can tell me about him? Are there any animals he likes?

Wraith Mom: He's pretty much always loved animals in general. But...when Andrew was younger, he loved apes and monkey's.

Given his unique appearance, Wraith most likely finds kinship with animals, especially the ones with sharp claws and dark colored sclera.

Rika: Obviously I can't get him one of those. But, that does give me an idea...

Wraith's Mom: Oh, I know, why don't you try cooking something for him?

Rika looks to the side.

Rika: What about foods? Is there anything I should know about?

Wraith's Mom: He's not overly fond of shellfish and he doesn't like spicy food because it gives him a tummy ache.

Rika: Anything else?

Wraith's Mom: Well, let me see... Oh, I've been trying hard to get to know him again, and one thing I've found out is...he really likes sweets!

Rika: Like... candy? (How many sweets have you been giving him, anyway? You're going to make my poor Wraith fat!)

Wraith's Mom: Mmmm, no. More like cakes, pies, cookies, puddings, ice cream, that sort of thing.

Rika: (That's going to be a problem. I don't know the first thing about baking. Well, other than what Takato taught me about making bread. Which won't be much use here. And, besides, I doubt he would like Japanese cakes, they aren't very sweet. Baking a pie might be a little easier, but-)

Wraith's Mom: Oh, I better go before he suspects something.

Rika: Wait, what kind of pie is his favorite?

Wraith's Mom: Cherry, good luck!

Rika looks horrified. Cherry pie, that's like, the hardest one! How is she even supposed to get the pits out? Why couldn't it have been apple, peach, raspberry, strawberry, blueberry, blackberry or literally any other fruit?!

Rika pulls out a cellphone.

Takato: Hello?

He is trying to multitask, helping his parents by mixing bread dough in a bowl, while talking to his friend at the same time.

Rika: Hey, it's me.

Takato: Rika? Hey, er, what's up? Do you need something?

Rika: I need your help. Is there anything you can tell me about making... pie's?

Takato: Pie's?

Rika: I need to make a cherry pie for Wraith, and you're the only one I can think of who can help me.

Takato: (Exhale) Sorry, Rika, I would like to help, but we kind of have our hands full here. And, besides, we're really more of a bread only bakery.

Rika: I was afraid you would say that.

Takato: Is there no one else you can ask?

Rika: Well-

The camera zooms out into the kitchen at Wraith's Mother, who is cleaning dishes.

Rika: (Grandma is gone for the day, so I can't ask her.) I could ask his mother, but I really was hoping I wouldn't have to. She's nice, but we don't know each other that well, and sometimes I can't understand what she's saying. Her Japanese isn't that great... (Exhale) Okay.

Rika supposes she will have to consider this "family bonding" and make the best of it. It would be good to get closer to her lovers mother after all.

Takato: Good luck.

They both hang up. In the next scene Wraith and Orphan, otherwise known and Andrew and Matthew, are sent out to buy groceries.

Wraith's Mom: And don't forget the butter, please.

The front door shuts.

Wraith's Mom: Well, now that's settled...let's get started. Shall we?

("Somewhere over the Rainbow" by Israel Kamakawiwoʻole plays)

The next few scenes show her future mother-in-law slowly and gently guiding the curious young girl through each step. During the course of the lesson, the two grow closer, swapping stories and laughter. After the dough is made, she teaches her about rolling out the dough with a rolling pin. Telling her to make sure that there is plenty of flour underneath(And on the rolling pin) so that the dough doesn't stick. She shows her how to remove the pits from the cherries using a device that reminds Rika a little of a stapler. Rika looks from the bowl to the woman repeatedly. Apparently, pie filling has an edible kind of wax in it, who knew? They place the dough in the metal tray, crimping the dough bottom. Just before they put it in the oven, and they put the top on the pie, sprinkles a little bit of sugar on top. The pie bakes for about 45 minutes. The two females look at their creation through the glass, chuckling with excitement. The two double high five, Wraith's mother once again puts her hands on Rika's face, though only briefly.

Rika: (Even after she passed... this remains my favorite memory of her. It marks not only the day we became closer, but also when I consciously considered her family.)

Rika hides on the other side of the wall, waiting for the verdict.

Wraith's Mom: Surprise, I made a pie for you two. I made a pie for both of you-

Wraith sits at the kitchen table.

Orphan: It's too early for dessert, I'll eat it later.

Orphan walks away. cuts a slice, puts whipped cream on top and places it in front of her son. She puts on a good show, but can't fully hide her giddiness. An ever perceptive Wraith pick up on this as she puts the plate down. Wraith also notices that Rika is nowhere to be seen and makes a mental note of it.

Wraith: Is something the matter?

Wraith's Mom: Oh, it's nothing. I just tried something a little different this time. Let me know how you like it, okay?

Wraith puts a small piece of the pie in his mouth and chews.

Wraith: It's good.

Rika: (Come on, Wraith! Is that all you're going to say?! Give me something here!)

Wraith's Mom: Really, you like it?! That's great!

His face doesn't change in the slightest when he says this. His mother walks behind the wall to her future daughter-in-law.

Rika: Are you sure he likes it? I mean, he doesn't look very excited...

: Don't worry, sweetheart. Look, I know my son, and I can tell he's enjoying it. He's just not very emotional about it.

Rika Peeks out from the wall and ducks back behind. She wonders whether what his mother said was even true. Maybe she assumed that he loves sweets just because he eats whatever his mother puts in front of him.

Wraith: I did say it was good...

Wraith, as it turns out, could(Probably) hear them the whole time. Rika before she can stop herself, jumps out from behind the wall. Not quite angry, just a little upset or...disappointed.

Rika: I worked really hard on that! Could you at least show a little more enthusiasm?!

Wraith: So, you did bake it. I thought as much...Just because I'm not smiling, doesn't mean I'm not happy.

Rika blushes lightly, standing still as a statue. She had inadvertently given away that it was made by her.

Rika: I know. I-I just wanted to see you smile, that's all... Hey, there is something else I have planned... Just a minute-

Rika opens the front door and Renamon is standing to it's left, her back to the wall.

Renamon: How did it go?

Rika: Renamon, I told you, you didn't have to wait for me.

Renamon: ...So, what now?

In the next scene Rika and Wraith are soaking in a hot spring.

Wraith: It is...just another onsen.

Rika: Just wait, you'll see. There is something special about this one.

Wraith notices one of the "Snow Monkey's" sitting at the edge of the water, looking at him.

Wraith: It is a...monkey. I thought you had to go to Jigokudani Monkey Park to see them.

Rika: Uh-huh. The onsen is actually quite famous for them too. Your Mom told me you liked monkey's so-

The final scene is shown like a photo, at least twelve monkey's cling to a shocked Wraith's shoulders and back, they seem to have taken a shine to him. Rika is laughing in the background, mostly because Wraith looks so perplexed, her plan worked too well. The two love birds talk as they get out of the water.

Wraith: Did you name her?

Rika: Huh?

Wraith: The rabbit.

Rika: H-her?

Her lips twitches with embarrassment. In the next scene, a smiling Takumi is lying on his stomach, his face super close to the bunny's.

Takumi: Hiya, Naruto.

And with that, the memory/daydream ends. By now the sandstorm has mostly settled, bringing the sun back in it's full fury. The pair walks in the hot sin for about fifteen minutes, maybe more. During that time they find no signs of life, except for perhaps these bland trees, or rocks, neither of the girls can tell, that look like grey-brown pillars with rounded tops. Each has anywhere from one to three perfect holes spaced out neatly in them near the top.

Taomon: Rika-

The two stop in their tracks.

?: Halt, let us see if you are the ones we have been waiting for!

?2: Prepare for battle!

Two towering figures stand before the duo, one a red elephant, the other, a violet camel, both humanoid and dressed in Arabic clothes. The digivice comes up: Both are Ultimate levels and their names are WenChaimon and FanYemon.

Rika: Walk all over them, Taomon.

(Green Day "Holiday" plays.)

Taomon makes for them without hesitation. The elephant comes from Taomon's right while the camel comes from her left. WenChaimon swings his large red fist, but Taomon parries with a swift kick. She jumps backward as FanYemon's golden chain sails towards her, piercing the sand. She runs up his arm, backflip kicks him in the face, then dodges WenChaimon's sword swing mid-air as he steps forward. Rika watches on unafraid, completely confident in her partners abilities. The two maybe bigger and probably stronger, but she is a lot faster and harder to hit.

Taomon: Thousand Spells!

Thousands of tags cling to the Pachyderm's face before exploding. FanYemon spins the chain in circles then flings it at his target several times, a mile a minute. She however, continues to dodge everyone mid-air. One of the times he pulls the chain back he notices a paper talisman on it, which promptly explodes.

Taomon: Talisman of Light!

She pegs him in the face and he stumbles backwards. Taomon drops to the sandy ground then, whips out her giant brush. She sprints to WenChaimon, beating him in his already damaged face at blinding speeds. Then cartwheels to the left as when he reaches for her with both hands, dropping his sword. Picking up his discarded weapon with a spin, she backflip hits FanYemon in the chin, then smacks him back to the ground with a forward slip. Then finishes by hitting WenChaimon in the side of the head with his own sword. While he gets one more punch in, she is not fatally harmed. Skidding backwards in the sand, triumphantly plunging the sword into the sand. Both lie on the ground, smoke coming off of them and the background song promptly cuts.

Rika: So, are we the one's you're looking for?

WenChaimon is the first to ist up, shaking a bit as he does.

WenChaimon: Th-That is enough. Forgive us, we had to test you, to make sure...

FanYemon: That you were capable for what must be done. Though we were told there would be six of you...

Rika: There are, but...Taomon?!

She suddenly falls forward on one knee.

Rika: You're hurt.

She says, worried.

Taomon: I-It's nothing... she got me back there when we-

A flashback shows Taomon flying through the black space between spaces, clutching Rika in her arms. Seeing the weaker prey, a bizarre looking Digimon comes out of the darkness to reach for her. But, Taomon spins around and it bites her collarbone with it's long vampiric teeth. She fights it off, but grips her wound with one hand.

Rika: So it did get you... Why didn't you tell me?!

Taomon: Sh-She has been following us... ever since.

Rika: What?(!)

The girls eyes go wide with alarm and she looks over her shoulder. Sure enough, the creature is following them like a lost puppy.

Rika: What is it?

FanYemon: Marxmon, one of the cruel and twisted Digimon who dwell in the space between Servers.

WenChaimon: I am sorry to say, there are insane cults by whom they are worshipped. In those circles they are known as "Outer gods" of the "Court of Abyssal Waters".

It suddenly takes off into the air, bearing it's teeth, claws out.

WenChaimon: Stand back, we will dispatch with it!

FanYemon: Bond's of Fate!

Fanyemon wraps the chain around it's neck. It grips the chains with both hands struggling against the Camel Asura's pull with all it's might. But for naught. It is flung headlong towards it's enemy. WenChaimon tears the sheet from his sword, revealing an impressive golden Arab style blade.

WenChaimon: Ankusa's Splendor!

Marxmon is shown as a black silhouette with a bright white background. It is sliced in half with a single swing. Rika looks at her digivice, uneasy.

Rika: (But...these two beat it so easily and... that was a Mega. They weren't trying their hardest when they were fighting Taomon?)

FanYemon: Good riddance...

WenChaimon: Foul beast, may you never harm another.

Both of them absorb the data particles into their bodies. Rika can't help but wonder about these two. They work for the Four Perils, yet they seem to have a kind of honor code and sense of decency. But, then again, the Whale and Fish Asura didn't seem too bad either. Strange. The scene cuts to the four at a camp site at night, a fire going. Taomon is lying on a rug under a kind of tent, four sticks with a simple white sheet canopy. Rika notices more of those strange pillars surrounding them.

WenChaimon: She's lost a little blood, but her body will replenish itself on it's own. Water?

He hands her a clay jug and she takes a swig.

Rika: What are those things? We passed a lot of them on the way here but, we don't know what they are.

FanYemon: Supper.

WenChaimon: We just call them "Stalks". This planet may look dead, but there is food if you know where to look. Watch.

Soon Rika notices a yellow glow underneath the sand in several places. In the night it has a yellow gatorade-like color(a slight green tint). The redhead gets on her hands and knees and starts digging next to one of the pillars. After a few seconds, she reaches a hollow cavity underneath the stalk. That is when she finds the source of the light, a fruit that resembles a freshly cut(Peeled) pineapple. Though it is yellow like pineapple, it is the shape of a Tetragonal Prism and as big as a jackfruit. She pulls it out from the empty cavity by it's string of roots, which grow straight down like rope.

WenChaimon: The Khem-ratjja. It means "Kite tail".

FanYemon: Once you get passed the fact that it glows, you'll find that it's taste is quite pleasant.

Rika hesitates for a few seconds, who has ever heard of a bioluminescent fruit? However, the hunger soon wins and she takes a hefty bite out of it. Her eyes go wide with surprise. It actually, tastes delicious, very sweet, like crystallized pineapple-lemon. Only juicier. She quickly gets up and brings it to Taomon for them to share. WenChaimon dips his trunk into the water jug and sprays it into all three holes of one stalk. Suddenly, the sand comes alive with different colors.

Rika: Go ahead, try it. You'll like it-

She does as bid though weakly.

Taomon: It's...good.

She says with mild surprise.

FanYemon: If you like that, then wait until you taste these.

WenChaimon thrusts his hand into the sand and pulls out a longer string of roots. It has three different colored fruits on it, yellow, green, and pink. All glowing.

FanYemon: They each have their own unique flavor.

WenChaimon tears it off and walks it over to them.

WenChaimon: These fruits only grow at night by full moon, and if you give them plenty of water...

FanYemon: You can make the stalks grow two to three fruits.

The elephant chops them up into smaller slices.

WenChaimon: Not only do they taste great, but they are full of nutrients.

The green one tastes like a juicy honeydew-gooseberry and the pink one tastes like something of a cross between a strawberry and cotton candy. Rika notices one patch of sand glowing purple. The camera x-ray zooms in on one particular Stalk. The fruit underneath is a light purple color.

Rika: What's that purple light?

WenChaimon: Argh, don't bother with those.

FanYemon: They turn purple when they don't get enough water. And they taste very bitter.

She can't help but be a little disappointed upon hearing that. Rika looks over at her partner.

Rika: Why hasn't she de-digivolved yet?

FanYemon: A side effect of the bite, most likely.

WenChaimon: She will return to the Renamon you know by morning.

Rika: ...You said-you needed to test us for what needs to be done. What did you mean? I assume it has something to do with finding the Dark Crest but-

FanYemon: This planet wasn't always the way you see it.

WenChaimon: It was once fertile, filled with rivers and lush vegetation. It was quite beautiful, to be honest. Not unlike some of your rain forests in the Real World, I'd imagine.

FanYemon: But that was before Shalamon devoured everything and the land became barren. All vegetation, all Digimon-vanished in a matter of weeks. Reducing a once thriving ecosystem into...

WenChaimon: A wasteland.

FanYemon: Indeed.

Rika: A Digimon-did all this?

WenChaimon: The "Great Worm". She has no self-discipline. "Restraint" and "delayed" gratification, such concepts are foreign to her.

FanYemon: And now she is paying the price for it. Starving away for centuries in the earth below...

Taomon shakely walks to the trio, holding the wound with her right hand.

Taomon: And we must defeat this "Shalamon" in order to claim the Dark Crest.

Rika: Taomon, you should lie back down!

Taomon: I-It is alright. I feel better now.

FanYemon: We are going to have to travel quite a distance in order to reach her tomorrow.

WenChaimon: So get you're rest while you can.

The next day the team heads out early before the sun rises. Even in the semi-dark of morning, Rika and Renamon notice a change in scenery. The sand in this part of the desert is much harder, like a tough crust of sorts. Aside from that, it has a more orange color and a lot more rock formations. The previous area was nothing but yellow sand for miles(Not counting the stalks).

WenChaimon: We are heading into her main territory now. From this point on, try to be as quiet as possible.

FanYemon: She can't hear our voices unless she is close, but she can feel our vibrations. Try to take small steps and be light on your feet.

The gang eventually reaches a random spot in the sand and stops, forming a circle.

Rika: What?

Renamon: Are we supposed to see something?

WenChaimon: This is it.

FanYemon: You may not be able to see it. But, take one step between where we are standing and you'll fall through into her sanctum.

Starting with Renamon, each takes their turn and falls into the unseen hole. When Rika opens her eyes, she makes out a series of tunnels made of large brown square slabs. The walls, floor, and cieling all look this way. There are decorative pillars in multiple locations on the right and left. While there is only dim light down here, their eyes adjust surprisingly fast. A ways away from the groups current location, a horror awakes from her slumber. There is a sloshing kind of sound as the monster salivates. Her voice is slightly high pitch, watery or perhaps insectoid in character.

Shalamon: What is that smell?...mmmm-hmhm...food! At long last! Oh, I have waited ages! Please, wait for me! I'm coming-!

She slither forward in the dark.

The Digivice comes up.

Digivice: Shalamon, Level: Ultimate, Type: Virus, Family: Great Old One. "Ruler" of the dead planet and former mate of Dragomon. The inhabitants of the planet, for a short time, had attempted to pacify her via sacrificial offering. As long as she continued to receive a sacrifice, the Digimon thought the rest of them were safe. They were wrong. Nothing could quell her hunger and she soon devoured everything on the planet that could be construed as life. Except for the Khem-ratjja fruit, which she cannot digest. Her body resembles a purple Seadramon, but her face is uniquely her own.

Rika: Do you have a plan for killing Shalamon?

WenChaimon: Yes. But, hope we do not need to use it. Though not as powerful as the fabled "Outer gods", she is ranked among the "Great Old Ones". And due to her sheer size, she may well be harder to kill than Marxmon.

FanYemon: If all goes well, we will be able to get what we're looking for and leave without being noticed.

Rika looks over her shoulder and sees a slab with a marking on it. It is all the way on the wall at the end of the hall they are in.

Rika: Renamon, look!

Renamon: The Dark Crest of Ignorance!

The symbol is similar to it's "good" counterpart, though completely backwards. The Knowledge crest put emphasis on the large lens, which has a pupil in it. Most likely symbolizing farsightedness and attention to detail. This Dark Crest instead has the pupil inside of the little lens, symbolizing shortsightedness and carelessness. Rika holds up one of the tags she is carrying and it and the glyph start to shine a sickly yellow color. But that is when Shalamon comes rushing around the corner, her mouth full of strings of drool. Both the sickly yellow lights go out.

Shalamon: Foood!

Renamon: That is Shalamon I take it.

By the way she clumsily gropes around, it is clear that her eyesight is rather poor.

Rika: What do we do?! She's blocking the Crest!

WenChaimon: Everyone split up!

Rika: But we-!

WenChaimon: Find the stair case and climb it, me and my compatriot will be waiting outside for you. Go!

WenChaimon and FanYemon each hury down separate passages, the elephant to the left and the camel to the right. Renamon and Rika go straight, barely out running the beast for what feels like forever. In truth, it was less than a minute.

Shalamon: Naaaaaaaghhhh! Foooooooooddddd!

Renamon picks her human friend up and dodges to the right to avoid the first bite. Then the left for the next, then the right again for the last. The duo makes a sharp turn into another left side passage and Shalamon speeds passed them like a bullet train. Smashing several ancient vases on the way. This one is far to tight for her to fit through.

Shalamon: Where are you, my tasty morsels?! Come out, come out! Draaaaaaaaaaagh!

The temple shakes violently at her trashing excitement. Sand pours from the crevices in the ceiling with each booming quake.

Renamona: We should go...

She takes Rika by the hand and they continue on. After a few short turns, the team falls into a relatively shallow pit. It is so dark that they didn't even see it in front of them.

Rika: Pfft! Puh! W-Water?

Rika and Renamon can touch the bottom. This may have been meant as a trap hundreds of years ago. It reaches up to their chests, suggesting it was meant to slow them down. Maybe Shalamon was smaller years ago.

Renamon: This must be where those two Asura found the water they gave us.

Rika: And the vase. (Exhale) Both are probably a hundred years old...

She says with a note of disgust.

Rika: Let's move-

The rectangular pool of water is quite small and they reach the other end in a matter of seconds. The two peek out into the adjacent hall, where Shalamon is busily searching for them. WenChaimon peeks out from his corridor, makes a "Shhh" gesture and then makes a head motion. Suggesting they should take the smaller path on the right, behind Shalamon's tail. Clutching FanYemon's gold chain in one hand, WenChaimon purposely hits the wall with his sword then runs. Shalamon back tracks, giving chase at alarming speed.

Shalamon: Nnnggaaaahhhh!

Rika: Now!

The duo makes a right into the main passage, then makes the left into the other smaller one on the left.

Rika: What is that, torches?

Renamon: Sunlight!

They run out into the hall. Just on time, Shalamon comes around the corner, mouth agape.

Shalamon: There you are-!

FanYemon: Up here!

WenChaimon: Quickly now!

Rika: Digivolve, Renamon!

Renamon: Renamon, digivolves to...Kyubimon!

Rika jumps on her back and she climbs the steps as fast as she can. Shalamon is literally right at their heels, chomping and snapping viciously.

Shalamon: Come here, my tasty morsels!

The titan bursts out of the temple exit, sending a cloud of dust out in all directions. WenChaimon and FanYemon wait on the right and left side, WenChaimon holding the chains end. They witness Rika riding Kyubimon, they ready themselves, knowing what is coming after.

FanYemon: WenChaimon!

WenChaimon: Steady...!

As soon as Shalamon comes out they spring the trap.

WenChaimon: Now!

WenChaimon thrusts his sword through his end of chain and into the sand, deep as he can muster. FanYemon jumps over Shalamon, ducks under and jumps over again several times. FanYemon finishes by simply making a fist. Like magic, the chain tightens around the horror, burning into the monsters skin as she trashes about. WenChaimon grips his end of the chain pulls with all his might.

Shalamon: Mine! Mine! Mine!

WenChaimon: T-The rest is up to you!

Even with the two powerful Asura's holding her, she still desperately chomps at her prey. Moving a few inches every few seconds. Kyubimon turns around mid-run, skidding in the sand. Rika hops off and Kyubimon digivolves into Taomon.

Shalamon: Miiiiiiiiiiinnnnnnneeeeeeeeee-!

A gigantic Tiger Digimon with wings comes from out of nowhere, taking her full girth into his much more impressive mouth. Rika and Taomon's stomachs clench, an overwhelming feeling of stubborn anger penetrates them to their very cores.

WenChaimon: (L-Lord Taowumon.)

He ferociously and savagely bashes her up and down and side two side like a dog. Disturbingly, the worm just keeps reaching for Rika and Taomon the whole time, still drooling. He tosses her into the air, then catches her in his mouth with a sickening crunch. Shalamon finally, goes limp and stops moving. Both ends break down into yellow data particles. With that, he promptly turns to walk away, his wings giving a quick little flutter.

FanYemon: My Lord, forgive me, but, what are you doing here?

The Tiger Peril's voice sounds remarkably like the Nine-Tails from Naruto, or from Inspector Gadget.

Taowumon: (Growl) To do your master's duty for him, apparently. He's too "busy" to watch his own territory.

So this territory must not fall under Taowumon's jurisdiction. But then who's is it?

Renamon: Territory...(They are not like the Four Sovereigns, they do not live together.)

Rika: Wait, before you go, can you tell us where to find the other-

The beast turns lightning fast and growls at the girl.

Taowumon: Grah! Do not assume that I have decided to help you because I wanted to!

Taomon: Then why did you agree to help us in the first place?

Taowumon: The four of us agreed to help you, yes. But, reluctantly so! Because we have no other choice! We, the Four Perils, being at the mercy of such fragile, weak creatures-profanation! I will not aid you any further!

He takes off with his powerful wings, disappearing from sight. In the next scene, Rika and Renamon back track to the glyph panel. She holds up the tag and after both glow yellow, the panel turns small, fitting neatly into the the rectangular slot. Unlike Terriermon and Guilmon, Rika had questioned Kari further on the subject of the Crests. So, she knew how everything worked.

Chapter 7:

As the four walk together through the desert, FanYemon and WenChaimon explain that Taowumon was the last to get on board with the plan. He put up a fight all the way to the end. They also explain the power structure. Like with the Four Sovereigns, each of the Four Perils has three subjects who work underneath them. WenChaimon and FanYemon serve Hundunmon, apparently. Ironically, from what they are told, the Four "Disonant Ones" get along better than the Sovereigns did.

WenChaimon: Are you sure you want us to take you to Lord Taowumon's territory?

Rika: Yes. We don't have a choice. Maitreyamon said that the Four Peril's would know where to find the Dark Crests. We found the one on a "Diminutive desert planet". Assuming the boys haven't found any, that still leaves a "Cave of gloom", a "Dead Forest", and "Floating Abyssal Isles".

Renamon: Given how he treated us. Do you think he will meet our intrusion into his territory with violence when we get there?

He shakes his head back and forth.

FanYemon: That is simply his way, it is best not to take it to heart. Lord Taowumon is stubborn, but not even he would dare to go against the wishes of the other three Peril's.

The Asura stop in front of a rift. They can see a very small white village below a high hill. The villages architecture looks like something between Tibetan and Viga, with strings and strings of flags of different colors. Some roofs are flat, others have mahogany colored tile roofs. There are "windows" but there is no glass in the frames.

FanYemon: This is it.

WenChaimon: This is as far as we go.

Rika and Renamon turn around to bid them farewell.

Rika: Thank you, for everything.

She holds out her hand to shake it. The Elephant Asura looks shocked for a moment, then delicately shakes. FanYemon does the same. Rika and Renamon turns and wave goodbye as they pass through to the other side. It's strange, the sun was setting in the desert, but here, it is broad day light!

Rika: Whoa.

Hundreds of Digimon are busily running back and forth. There is a golden statue at the center of town with four strings of flags hanging from it. The Digimon here worship Taowumon, apparently. There are several Digimon sitting in the streets selling their wares on sheets. Something catches Renamon's eye.

Renamon: Rika-(!)

The camera focuses on Takato, Guilmon, Terriermon, and Henry. Takato is talking to a Jijimon who is sitting on a red sheet with a stick in hand.

Takato: Excuse me-

Rika: Takato!

He turns, excitement in his eyes. The others start laughing with joy and the gang hurries to their female friends.

Takato: You made it!

Rika: But, how did guy's you find this place?!

Guilmon: You're okay!

Henry: I knew they would be.

Takato: WuChaimon and WuPanmon showed us how to get here.

Guilmon: They were two Asura!

Henry: They suggested that we talk with Taowumon to find out where the next Dark Crest was.

Renamon: We were guided by two Asura as well. WenChaimon and FanYemon.

Takato: Wow, looks like these Asura are already coming in handy! Completely opposite of the Deva, which is kind of odd when you think about it-

Rika: Where did you guys go?

A fast flashback shows them being swept up into the pillars of light.

Terriermon: Oh, just a certain "gloomy cave".

He says flashing a proud smile. Henry holds up the tag and the Crest within, and Rika holds up theirs. Sand blows onto Terriermon and he tries to blow it off his nose.

Terriermon: Pft pft! You guys are all sandy, where did it spit you out?! A desert?!

He says waving the sand away with one hand, with a note of irritation.

Rika: Yeah, for your information, we did just come from the desert.

She points her thumb at the rift a short distance behind them.

Takato: Huh-ha! That means we have two of them already!

Renamon: We saw you talking with the locals-have you found anything?

Takato: Well-no. You see, we've asked around, but no one seems to know anything about how to find Taowumon.

Henry: No one wants to tell us, is more like it. They worship Taowumon, they say he is their "Guardian", that he keeps the village safe. So they want to keep anything they know about him a secret.

Takato: There were a few Digimon that thought they knew someone who knows how to find him.

Guilmon: But those were all dead ends...

A quick succession of flashbacks show the various Digimon they talked to. One was a Baromon, who simply shakes his head then points in another direction. A Nohemon scratches the top of his head with one finger and says-

Nohemon: Well, heck, I don't know why he would say somethin like that. Cus' I don't know anything. Sorry. If only I had a brain...

A FlameWizardmon stands in front of his sheet of merchandise. He crosses his arms and shakes his head.

FlameWizardmon: Look, I don't know what Nohemon's been tellin ya, but I don't know anything.

Takato: But-

FlameWizardmon: Either buy somethin or get lost. Go both Neemon, word has it he knows somethin.

He waves his hand in a dismissive way. In the final scene a Neemon is standing by his sheet of products dumbly, picking his nose.

Neemon: Um, what was the question again?

All: (Exhale)

Takato: Do you know how we can find Taowumon?

He says sounding a bit short with him.

Neemon: Mmmmm...nope. But there is this crazy old Digimon that said he found Taowumon's realm. Does that help?

Takato: Yes, it does!

Guilmon: What kind of Digimon is he?!

Neemon: ...beats me.

Takato: So we had just started when you guys showed up. So that was the first "Old Guy" we asked.

Renamon: Well, we're here now. So we'll cover more ground this way.

Several hours later...

Terriermon: We've asked every geezer in town and none of em know anything!

The Tamers enter a bar and take a seat.

Takato: Aaaahh, I need a drink.

He drops his head face first onto the table with a light bang.

Henry: Hate to break it to ya, Takato. But the way we look, chances are they wouldn't serve us any anyway.

Rika: Takato-

He picks his head up just as the very same Baromon, Nohemon, Neemon, and FlameWizardmon they talked to earlier walk in.

FlameWizardmon: Still looking for Taowumon's domain?

Nohemon: Why do you care so much?

Neemon: Do you have a death wish?

Renamon: We are searching for relics we think will stop Srivatsamon.

Rika: And we think he knows where we can find one of them.

Renamon: And for what it's worth, we've met once before coming here.

This shocks them greatly. The four look from one to the other.

FlameWizardmon: Look, we have been watching you all day and we don't think you are up to anything...

Neemon: Have you found the Jijimon I mentioned?

Rika: (You didn't say Jijimon...)

Rika thinks to herself, her right eye twitching with irritation.

Terriermon: Yeah, like, every single one!

FlameWizardmon: Hah, jokes on you guy's. The very first one you talked to was the right one.

Takato: Wah?! But when we asked him, he said he didn't know anything!

Baromon: When next you talk to him, make sure you ask for "the Vajra, then the drum, then the same vajra, then the mirror". He will then say, "I only have one of those". To which you must reply "I am stubborn".

Apparently it was some kind of code for "believers".

FlameWizardmon: Then he will know you are "One of us". We all are part of an organization of true believers. We have charged ourselves with keeping the secret out of the hands of strangers. I hope you find what you're looking for.

The four leave the bar. The gang does as told and the Jijimon eyes them for a moment.

Jijimon: The sacred realm of Taowumon can not simply be found. It is hidden by somekind of magic. Climb the stairs to the heavens, once there remember these words well: "Red, Blue, Yellow, Green & white". You will know of what I speak once you are there.

At the top of the hill, the Tamers pass under about seven red Torii gates. From there, a few feet away, there is a lone red Torii.

Henry: This must be the "red" he meant.

Once they pass through it, they stop and look around. so far, they don't see anything.

Terriermon: There!

Way to the left, hidden by the tries all around it, stands a dark blue torii. That must be what the Jijimon meant. The gang passes through it. Guilmon looks to the right and left and finds the Yellow Torii.

Guilmon: I found the Yellow one! It's over there!

He points to it. It is all the way to the right, even further away than the Blue one had been.

After passing through that one, they notice the green Torii. They are being ushered downward, in a semi-circular crescent moon motion. It is all the way on the other side of the valley of trees. Being Green, it should have been the hardest to spot, but by now, they are getting good at this. The white one, which is last, is very easy to find. It is basically straight ahead of the dark green colored one. Once they pass through they are brought to the center of the valley of trees. But it is entirely different from what they were heading towards. Taowumon's home is surprisingly beautiful, but in an otherwordly kind of way.

Takato: Whoa.

Guilmon: It's beau-tiful.

Terriermon: You can say that again.

Guilmon: It's-

Terriermon: I didn't mean that literally!

They are standing in a little grassy area just outside of the forest. Which is made entirely out of abnormally tall white Ipe Trees, overlooking a humongous mountain topped with snow. At the forests center stands a pagoda, just peeking out of the top of the trees. Little glowing pale yellow spores come up from the grass every few seconds like snow, floating around peacefully. The sky is cloudy, but the sun is shining so powerfully, that the clouds shine. Water cascades down from the East and West sides of the valley, pink in color, adding to the ambience. There are also ruins of an ancient city built into the rock near the mid-section of the waterfalls. Time must work different here, because after a few seconds the realm turns to night. The sky is an unearthly dark red color and a bright full moon, but the blue-white stars are still visible. It feels like fall here, not cold, but not hot either, just...cool.

Takato: I guess, forward is the only option...

The Tamers enter the forest, unaware that they are being watched by a Bird Digimon. The Digivice comes up.

Digivice: LiuYemon, Level: Ultimate, Type: Asura General. The Eagle Asura and servant of Taowumon.

He pulls out his weapon, ready throw his bamboo rod like a spear, but thinks better of it and takes off. As he leaves he looks over his shoulder and sees something else, something more disconcerting. In the next scene he touches down on a high cliff of the mountain, bowing with one wing across his chest. His master is resting there, his head laying on both his paws.

LiuYemon: My Lord...

Taowumon: What is it? I was sleeping.

LiuYemon: Forgive me, Lord Taowumon, but intruders have been spotted entering the forest.

Taowumon: So, why are you bothering me with it? kill them.

He turns his head away from the Eagle Asura and tries to go back to sleep.

LiuYemon: ...They are humans traveling with Digimon, I believe they are the "Chosen Children". To kill them would mean going against Qiongqimon and the other Perils.

He picks his head up and looks at his subordinate.

Taowumon: So-even after what I said in the desert, they still made their way here...ha ha, I applaud their courage. But it will take much more than that to survive in the Etherreal Forest. I have changed my mind, do not kill them. Just keep watching them for now.

LiuYemon: As you wish, my Lord. Oh, and there is one more thing-

Taowumon looks slightly uneasy at what he hears. LiuYemon's quick flashback shows the Royal Flush, very much alive, enter the forest. Obviously following the Chosen Children. The Tamers make their way through the forest, other than the spores it is quite dark. Every once in a while strangely colored Tentomon(Yellow with pink eyes, orange with light blue eyes, white with lavender eyes, pink with aqua green eyes, purple with yellow eyes,and blue with Grey eyes, all with grey spots. Two are different. One brown with white spots and orange eyes, and the other black with red eyes and orange spots) hover from tree to tree. They seem quite gentle and unconcerned with the intruders.

Henry: So, Takato, any idea where we are going?

Takato: The pagoda, I'm hoping...

Henry: I see, and-we're hoping the Dark Crest is there, I assume.

Terriermon: Well, it was just straight ahead, so if we keep moving, we should get there eventually.

He says gliding after the boys using his ears.

Rika: Something the matter?

Renamon: I just have this feeling.

Rika: We're being watched?

Rika walks up to Takato and whispers in his ear.

Takato: I know. I feel it too. Hn?!

The the gang's progress is cut off by a giant spider web, worse yet, there is a an equally enormous spider Digimon on it. The Digivice comes up:

Digivice: DaiDokugumon, Level: Mega, Attribute: Virus, Type: Insectoid. If Arukenimon is the "Queen of Spiders" than he is the King! Though this one looks like he's seen better days, he looks "old" and tired. He must have survived a long time without reincarnating. Then again, he might just be lazy, letting his subordinates do everything for him. It is the largest spider by leaps and bounds. It resembles a brown, hairier version of the regular Dokugumon. Though with a silver metal face plate over it's eyes, spikes on it's rump and red spikes stick up from the feet of it's much longer legs.

Henry: A Giant spider?

Takato: I think it's asleep. We should go around-

That's when they notice multiple other(Smaller) webs in the surrounding area. Gyukimon, Dokugumon, and KoDokugumon are crawling to and fro on them.

Rika: Yeah, I don't think that is going to be an option.

(Digimon Rumble Arena: Freezy Arctic plays)

Having noticed them, the other spider Digimon crowd together, crawling down from their webs. Two Arukenimon appear on the scene along with them.

Arukenimon 1: Oh, visitors, sister!

Arukenimon 2: Yes, I see, sister! Our husband will be quite pleased. Yes, most pleased indeed.

Arukenimon 1: Try not to wake him with your screams, we don't want to ruin the surprise! Acid Mist!

Guilmon jumps backwards out of the way. The acids sizzles and steams, eating away at the ground.

All: Digivolve!

Guilmon: Guilmon, digivolves to... Growlmon!

Renamon: Renamon, digivolves to... Taomon!

Terriermon: Terriermon, digivolves to... Gargomon!

Growlmon stomps foward, first shooting a fire ball, then giving a twirl tail whip.

Growlmon: Fire Breath! Dragon Spine!

Gargomon: Gargo Pellets!

Gargomon simply takes aim with both hands and releases a hail of bullets. But there are alot of them, so more targets appear every few seconds. Overhead, LiuYemon hovers in the sky, watching the scene unfold with his eagle eyes. Judging by where the smoke is coming from, the Tamers, despite their best efforts to stay on course, had made a detour along the way.

Kyubimon: Dragon Wheel!

Kyubimon wreaths her tails in flame, then spin tackles the one of the Arukenimon.

Arukenimon: Arggh! Ah! Ah! Ah!

The spider desperately pats herself, trying to put the flames out.

Arukenimon 2: Sister! You'll pay for that, Spiders thread!

A myriad of webs shoot from both her hands, knicking Kyubimon in the shoulder. However, she dodges in time to miss the brunt of it.

Growlmon: Raiden Blade! Pyro Blaster!

Growlmon steps in from the side, cutting the webs, then unleashes a blast of fire in the second Arukenimon sisters direction. She jumps out of the way, but many of her KoDokugumon underlings. She shoots a web, using it to launch herself towards Gargomon. He punches her across the face then regroups with Kyubimon, and Growlmon, shooting her with Gargo pellets all the while.

Gargomon: Ya know, I'm starting to get the idea that that guy's deaf!

Kyubimon: I know, surely our fighting should have woken him by now!

Rika: Aaahhh!

Takato: Rika!

Henry: Kyubimon, help!

Takato and Henry are desperately trying to free Rika from the grips of a spider Digimon who sneak attacked from behind. It looks just like DaiDokugumon, only significantly smaller. It isn't tiny, but smaller than the Arukenimon.

Kyubimon: Rika!

The Burnt Arukenimon leaps onto her sisters shoulders and both Spit acid. Clearly an attempt at distracting the trio of Digimon. Kyubimon head butts the ugly spider and it let's go. Gargomon and Growlmon don't fall for this, leaping to the side before firing back. Gargomon fires both gun arms at the one on top, while Growlmon give a Growl Claw to the lower sisters face. She instinctively grabs her face, from the pain and both collapse. Growlmon now unleashes a torrent of flames burning all the webs in site. Now the Gyukimon step in. Until now, they had spent their time throwing Majin Byoutan at Growlmon and Co. But now, they are getting serious. Barely even hurt by the flames, the Mega Levels shoot WarGrowlmon with two Senho Tsuchigumo.

Growlmon: Darghaaaaahhhhh!

After the dust clears, it is revealed that he had Digivolved before being hit. He is now WarGrowlmon! ... But it is no use.

Gyukimon: Yatsuka Senbaku!

Gyukimon 2: Yatsuka Senbaku

Takato: WarGrowlmon-NO!

Being Mega Levels, the only reason WarGrowlmon is even alive is because of toughness and because of his special Tamers bond with Takato. But this won't last for long. As they continue to hit him the with the same attack(and completely ignoring Gargomon's pellets) Growlmon hits the ground. He is wrapped in poisonous webbing. Kyubimon fires a few Fox Tail Infernos the little DaiDokugumon's way, and after a few dodges, the coward scurries off through the battlefield and onto the slumbering giant. It adjusts itself so that it is facing the same way as it's bigger doppelganger then sinks into it like water.

Takato: (No,why did this have to happen?!)

Quick memories flash through his head of how the Royal Flush Army's leader, KingxCardmon had crippled their Mega Digivolution capabilities. And that is when the anger and frustration turns to hatred.

Takato: I-It's because of them. It's all because of them-the Royal Flush Army! If they-if they never existed, none of this would be happening! Damn the them to hell and these stupid spiders... damn them all to HELL!

Henry and Rika's thoroughly shocked eyes catch hold of the tag dangling around the boys neck. It is now glowing red, and so are Takato's eyes. A light connects the webbing surrounding WarGrowlmon and Takato and the two combine. The ball of web tears apart as ChaosGallantmon stands up. Despite what his master ordered, LiuYemon was about to step in when he notices the sinister knight Digimon. The four heroes look on as their friends become a cold, unfeeling killing machine.

ChaosGallantmon: Demons Disaster.

He stabs the Gyukimon on the left, killing it instantly. Then slices the one next to it and it dies just as quick.

Henry: Takato!

Rika: Takato, can you here us?!

Takato is shown as a soul inside the evil Digimon. His eyes look glazed over and only half open. His face is emotionless.

ChaosGallantmon: Judecca Prison.

He uses the shield and starts to fire on every single spider Digimon he sees. Both Arukenimon sisters are vanquished as the one tries to help the other get up off the ground.

Arukenimon 1 : Aackkkkkk!

That is when Daidokugumon has had enough and steps in himself He spits out a geyser of acidic poison, way more powerful than the Arukenimon used. The evil knight blocks with his Gorgon shield and flicks the acids to the ground uselessly. The giant spider shoots several sharp threads of hard black webbing, which only manage to graze ChaosGallantmon in the shoulder and left ribcage.

ChaosGallantmon: Spiral Wailer.

The webs shatter to pieces and the knight continues towards his foe. Daidokugumon stomps off of his web and swipes and bites at him furiously, but the Knight easily dodges each and every attempt.

DaiDokugumon: Kugamimi No Mikasa!

A string of webbing shoots from his mouth and attaches to his lance, a feeble attempt. ChaosGallantmon takes his shield and cuts himself free.

DaiDokugumon: Anansi!

The smaller spider comes out of the big one and clings to ChaosGallantmon's chest. It tries to get him in the neck, where there is no armor. The poison would no doubt kill him, but he doesn't seem overly concerned. He simply eblows it in the face repeatedly until it falls off, then crushes it with his foot. Kyubimon cringes at the unfeeling cruelty in these actions. Overwhelmed by what he is seeing, LiuYemon's body starts to sweat.

Kyubimon: This isn't you, Takato! Think of what you are doing to Guilmon!

Rika: Takato, wake up!

Gargomon: It's no use...

Henry: He can't hear us...

Daidokugumon lunges for him, trying to devour him. But ChaosGallantmon grabs hold of the little arms just below his foes mouth. He begins to pull them while mercilessly stomping it in the head, completely ignoring his screams of pain. Eventually, these arms tear off and ChaosGallantmon's foot goes right through the spiders head with a bit of a twist of heel. The data released is immediately absorbed into the dark knight. The other spiders crawl away in a hurry. Just as he starts to turn towards his friends, who hold their collective breathes, something unexpected happens, the Royal Flush arrives. KingxCardmon once again does his cross-cutting trick and the wave of energy hits it's mark. But this time... it does nothing. The Royal Flush's appearance finally elicits a response from Takato-Guilmon.

ChaosGallantmon: The-Royal-Flush.

Takato's mouth moves inside of ChaosGallantmon.

Chapter 8:

Rika: The Royal Flush?!

Kyubimon: I can't believe it-

Henry: They are seriously still alive...

Henry says through gritted teeth. The short memory clip shows them fighting against the laser beam before seemingly being incinerated in a bright white light.

KingxCardmon: Does my not being dead confound you? I wouldn't dwell on it if I were you.

QueenxCardmon: Hmph, as if his Majesty would be defeated so easily.

10xCardmon: The King cannot die, not until his holy goal is achieved!

JackxCardmon: This knave, he withstood your special ability, My Lord.

KingxCardmon: Yes, so I noticed. (And he has Mega Digivolved as well...)

10xCardmon: Hnm? There, My Lord. Around the girls neck.

Rika grips the Tag with one hand to block it from view. It must have popped out of her shirt when DaiDokugumon grabbed her. She looks nervous, it's already too late, they know and she knows it.

KingxCardmon: Did you children come across something on your travels? Something - "Dark"? No one has ever been able to withstand my special ability.

He looks ChaosGallantmon over.

KingxCardmon: I must say, you don't seem yourself, boy.

ChaosGallantmon: ...

KingxCardmon: Ready yourselves-

All three: Sire!

KingxCardmon: We will purge this child and Digimon of the evil that has taken hold of them.

ChaosGallantmon: The-Royal-Flush. (TigerVespamon)

The Knight is engulfed in dark blue aura as the four Card Digimon surround him.

Gallantmon CM: Gallantmon: Chaos Mode.

The four Digimon attack from all directions, but he somehow manages to dodge and parry each and every one with the help of his weapons, Fenrir & Nagelring. His equivalent to Gungnir and Blutgang.

Gargomon: What should we be doing?

Henry: I-don't know. It's-out of our hands.

Kyubimon: I'm afraid-you're right.

Rika: But-

Gallantmon CM, with utmost precision, takes out each of them one by one. He pulls 10xCardmon towards him by the sword, knees him in the chest, then face plants him to the ground. Kicking him sideways into the bottom of the now empty giant spider web. QueenxCardmon attacks with both her halberds and the two clash. Gallantmon: Chaos Mode headbutts her, trips her then kicks her into another part of the web. KingxCardmon and JackxCardmon go at him together, but he catches both of their weapons in his armpits. KingxCardmon's second sword had just missed it's target(Gallantmon's head), being just above his left shoulder instead. Gallantmon CM bashes the two against one another, then uses both Fenrir and Nagelring to send them hurtling into the web. The Four Royal Digimon tear and rip at the webs, but to no avail, they are stuck. The smaller spider Digimon come back, starting to chew and bite them. Takato's friends look away. Unable to watch, even if it is happening to their enemies.

KingxCardmon: How-dare-you! Unhand me, wretched vermin! Yargh!

QueenxCardmon: Have you no respect, cease your biting at once! Let go of me! Dahh!

10xCardmon: M-My Lord-! Nghh!

JackxCardmon: Your Majesty-! Aargh!

Gallantmon CM: Last Prejudice

The knight puts his weapons together(Holding them pointing up), then thrusts them out. Purple-white electricity forms around the sword and lance, then darkness engulfs everyone on the web, Royal Flush and Spider alike.

Henry: They... they're gone.

There is a gaping hole where Daidokugumon's web once stood. A trail of littered debris has been paved for miles into the forest.

Rika: Takato, Guilmon!

Henry: Rika-!

Rika runs up and hugs Gallantmon: Chaos Mode.

Henry: Rika, stop it! You have to let go of him!

Rika: No! He's still in there! Come on, come back to me, Gogglehead.

Henry stops and looks at the Knight Digimon, he is shaking.

Henry: Everyone, give us a hand!

Kyubimon and Gargomon run up and hug him too.

Gallantmon: Chaos Mode starts to let out little grunts and groans, and that is when he finally reverts. Guilmon falls to the ground next to his partner.

Gargomon: He's back!

Takato: What-what hap-Guilmon!

He falls to his knees and puts his hands on his unconscious buddy.

Takato: Guilmon, I-I'm sorry, I'm so sorry! I-I...

Henry puts a hand on his shoulder.

Henry: You had no other choice, he would have died.

Rika: We all would have.

Kyubimon: There were just too may of them.

That is when a familiar face comes out of the trees.

Takato: Wenshumon?!

A few memories flash on the screen, her wicked smile, her snake-like movements, her bouncing off the walls, her striking. She runs up ahead of them and motions with her head for them to follow. Gargomon throws Guilmon over his shoulders, prepared to carry him the rest of the way.

Henry: You don't suppose she remembers us-?

Wenshumon: Groawr...

She turns her head towards the kids and narrows her eyes, giving a quiet leopard growl.

Gargomon: Yeah, I'd say it's pretty safe to say "She does".

Henry: I think she wants us to follow her.

LiuYemon: Your assertion is quite right. She does want you to follow her.

LiuYemon slowly descends from the sky, flapping his wings very slowly.

Rika: Who are you?

LiuYemon: LiuYemon, Eagle of the Twelve Asura.

Gargomon: And where were you when we were fighting for our lives?

LiuYemon: I was watch everything from above. It seemed to me that your friend had the situation under control-

The camera zooms in on Takato, who looks away with shame.

LiuYemon: -And my feline compatriot over there, who you seem to have already met, is Wenshumon, the Cat Asura.

All: Huh?!

Takato: Wenshumon is an Asura?!

LiuYemon: Yes, that is correct...

Kyubimon: Then, what was she doing on another Server?

Gargomon: We mean other then attacking groins.

Wenshumon: The Asura aren't always on "Active Duty". I was doing Yamamon a favor. Okay?

Takato: Oh is that all-waaaaahhh?!

Everyone's eye's go wide, their mouths drop open.

All: She can talk?!

Wenshumon: Yes, I can talk. Just because I choose not to, doesn't mean that I can't. Now, can we please get a move on? I'm tired of waiting for you slowpokes.

She has a surprisingly young, albeit feisty sounding voice. Kind of like Lena Inverse, only with a little more sass.

LiuYemon: Please, just follow her. It's the best you can do when she gets like this.

Takato: Wait, where are you going?

Gargomon: Yeah, the tower is this way!

Kyubimon: We have been going straight the whole time.

Wenshumon: Oh, really-?

She says with a familiar sly smirk.

LiuYemon: The spider webs in this forest play tricks on the senses. The vibrations cause one to lose ones way regardless of how careful that individual may be.

In other words, it is like vertigo but a little more subtle and without the dizziness. While they walk, Takato tries to engage in conversation with LiuYemon.

Takato: So, um, there definitely is a Dark Crest in the Pagoda? Like, you know it's there, right? We were planning on going there anyway, but we were really just "Shooting in the dark".

LiuYemon: Yes, we know it is there. We've know for quite some time now. But there is a problem. It is currently guarded by a band of ruffians.

Rika: And let me guess, we have to clear them out for him.

Wenshumon: Now you're catching on.

Takato: Yeah, but, no offense, but if you already know it's there... then why don't you get it?

Wenshumon: You make it sound so easy.

LiuYemon: To put it simply, we are not strong enough.

Henry: So then, these guys must be pretty tough then, huh?

Wenshumon: They are called the "Oki San-tsu".

Rika: So why doesn't your boss do it?

Kyubimon: Surely, one of the Perils could defeat whatever has held itself up in the Pagoda.

LiuYemon: (Exhale) I am sorry. Our Master can be-trying at times in this way. You see, he is not yet convinced that you Tamers are worth putting his faith in. My Lord, wants-you to prove yourselves.

Upon reaching the front gate a Witchmon looks over the edge of the belfry at the top. A small black Digimon, vaguely resembling Shutenmon follows suit seconds after. The Digivice comes up. The two Asura are nowhere to be seen.

Digivice: Rashomon, Level: Champion, Attribute: Virus, Family: Nature Spirits. Based on Ibaraki-Doji, Shuten Doji's "Right-hand man". He fulfills the same basic function. Like Gatomon, he looks like a Rookie, but is in fact a Champion.

Rashomon: (Who-)

The pint sized demon only contemplates for a few moments before coming to a realization.

Rashomon: (They are the ones that humiliated Lord Shutenmon! They look exactly how he described them. If what they say about humans is true, then they should look a lot older now... but it's them, I'm sure of it!) Don't do anything for now. I'll go talk with Father.

The scene cuts to Rashomon bowing to Shutenmon, who is sitting on a throne by himself. The camera zooms in on a panel built into the wall behind him, it has an Evil Eye glyph on it. It looks similar to it's Friendship counter part, but without the yin-yang qualities. The outside parts are not bent but pointing outward like a normal eye. The eye is solid with a pupil. Friendship is about balance and equality Solitude is not.

Shutenmon: So, the "Tamers" are outside our doors? And you say they want to come inside?

He sounds as though he is pondering why they would want to do that.

Rashomon: Yes, Father. I am sure of it, they are the ones you told me about. They must be here to finish the job!

Shutenmon: If they wanted me dead they would have done it back then. They must be after something else...

A quick memory flashes across the screen, showing Kazemon kicking the drunk demon and him collapsing to the floor, asleep.

Rashomon: How can you be so calm, when your hated enemies, who humiliated you, are finally in your grasp?! Don't you want revenge for what they did to you?! Grrrrh-let me prove myself! I'll take all our forces, and we will avenge your honor! We will not fail you, I swear it!

Shutenmon: Why are you so angry for my sake? You are young, and have a lot to learn. I do not hate them, I am indebted to them. If not for their mercy, I would not have learned the truth about loyalty and friendship. And, besides, it wasn't really a defeat, I was drunk.

Rashomon: Y-You want me to let them inside?!But-!

Shutenmon: Go. I want to ask them what they want. Perhaps we can solve this without violence.

He waves his son on with a hand. The little ogre leaves gritting his teeth as the metal double doors close behind him.

Rashomon: ( Ever since his defeat he's...changed. He doesn't drink or laugh at parties anymore, he refuses to talk to anyone, he barely even comes out of his room. To this day, I'm the only one he confides in. Even his hunderlings and Partners, who he once called "Friends" can't get close to Father.) Well, those jerks aren't getting any closer to him, not if I can help it-!

The front doors swing open and the Tamers enter, upon which they shut with a ear ringing bang. The scene cuts to moments before. Rashomon had apparently warned the other Big Three about the intruders. Two silhouettes are shown, one a muscular bearded man wreathed in green aura with wings and a tall hat.

?: So-Shutenmon thinks he can call the shots without our "say-so", does he? This is the perfect time for me to show that I, Sugumon, most powerful of the Big Three deserve to be sole ruler of the Hyakki Yagyō!

The other, a feminine figure surrounded in red aura with pointed ears and nine tails.

?: Ha ha ha. My dear, Shutemon, once I accomplish what you failed to do, everyone in the Hyakki Yagyō will know that I am the greatest of the Big Three! Gitsunemon!

The room is made of grey cement, but the walls have stray rocks sticking out from them. As the lights turn on, the Tamers notice ten wooden beams coming out of the floor. Which in turn are surrounded by wooden fortress walls. Rashomon comes down from the ceiling by rope and lands on the center one like an ape.

Gargomon: Who is that?

Rika pulls out her Digivice and the projection comes up from it.

Rika: "Rashomon, a Champion level"

Rashomon: Why did you come here? And what do you want with my father?

Renamon: Your father?

Rashomon: I know perfectly well you're here to kill Lord Shutenmon!

Rika: S-Shutenmon?

This is news to them. They didn't know what to expect, but they certainly weren't expecting to run into Shutenmon again, that's for sure. Especially not on another Server!

Takato: You don't suppose-

Henry: Yeah, I do, it's that Shutenmon. Which means this has to be his son...

Rashomon: Grrrr-stop playing dumb and answer me!

With all the yelling, Guilmon starts to awake on Gargomon's back.

Takato: Hey, pal, you awake?

Guilmon: T-Takato? Where are we?

Rika: Look, we aren't here to fight or anything-

Rashomon: Lies! You're here to finish what you started! I won't let you near him!

He says holding out his little blade.

Rika: We just want the Dark Crest-that's all!

Rashomon: I don't know what you're talking about. But, I'll make you a deal-defeat me and I'll let you go to the next floor of Ōeyama Steeple. After that-we'll talk. And no Ultimate or Mega Digivolving. Deal?

They all look from one to the other then nod in unison.

Kyubimon: We accept your terms. Are we all supposed to fight you or one-on-one?

Rashomon: Oh, so now all of a sudden you care about "Fair play", huh? Tsch, I don't care, just come at me.

Rika: Little brat.

Rashomon: Ready, start!

Guilmon: Pyro Sphere!

Rashomon wastes no time, dodging, then throwing a meat cleaver at the kids.

Rashomon: Kidomaru!

Rika: Watch it!

Henry: He doesn't care if we get hurt! He knows we don't want to kill him, but that doesn't mean he has a problem with killing us!

Rashomon: Kuma-doji!

While they are disracted, he drops down, hacking and scratching at Gargomon with his claws.

Rashomon: Kane-doji!

The punch he uses on the oversized bunny afterward sends him flying. As Kyubimon runs to tackle him, he rolls backwards out of the way. Then rolls to his right to avoid Guilmon's second pyro sphere. The child demon immediately, retreats via backflip, then bouncing from pillar to pillar like Mario(Wall jump) until he reaches the top. He swings from the ropes, tossing more cleavers. Like DemiDevimon and his syringes, the ogre seems to have an unending supply.

Rashomon: Kidomaru! Kidomaru! Kidomaru!

Kyubimon: Enough of this!

Kyubimon copies Rashomon, and soon reaches the top of one of the beams.

Kyubimon: Fox Tail Inferno!

The demon Digimon times it then swings further up the rope and two of the onibi collide. He destroys the other two with his cleaver. He leaps off the rope with both claws out, like jaws ready to chomp.

Rashomon: Hoshikuma-doji!

He is hit by Gargomon's Gargo Pellets and bounces off the farthest pillar. Using his claws, he catches himself, skillfully spiraling down the beam.

Rashomon: Kidomaru!

The knife knicks the rabbits right arm.

Gargomon: Ahh!

Henry: Gargomon!

Rashomon sticks his tongue out at him. He throws himself at a farther beam then kicks off of it.

Rashomon: Kuma-doji!

To Kyubimon's surprise he doesn't aim for her, but rather punches right through the beam she is standing on. Springboarding off the wall behind him he come back and punches her. Like Gargomon, she flies a lot farther than one would have expected, going clear over the other sides wall.

Rika: Kyubimon! Damn it.

Henry: As long as he's up there, he has the advantage!

Takato: Digivolve, Guilmon!

Guilmon: Guilmon, digivolve to... Growlmon!

Takato: Start by burning the ropes!

His friends look at him and he grins.

Takato: This place is like his swing set, it's made of wood.

Growlmon: PyroBlaster!

Looking around, the little ogre sees his ropes fall one by one, clearly the distraction worked. Wasting no time, Growlmon then puts fire to the walls and beams. While Rashomon has a private panic attack, the trio of heroic Digimon headbutt the beams. The shaking causes him to lose his balance and he falls to the floor. In the back ground, the Tamers open the double doors so that they all don't die from smoke inhalation.

Gargomon: Now, what was this you said about a "Talk"?

Growlmon, Kyubimon, and Gargomon surround him. He lifts his head and looks around then promptly drops it to the floor again. He knows he's lost. Each of the three use the "Shellmon: Hydro Blaster" card to put out the flames, then regroups with Rashomon to converse.

Rashomon: You didn't kill me when you should've. So I guess my Father was right about you guys, at least a little bit.

Guilmon: So you'll let us go to the next floor?

Rashomon: Yes, but I still don't totally trust you! Humans lie! and-I don't want you to hurt my Dad...

The little demon suddenly sounds like an actual child. Sniffling while rubbing his eyes(which are covered by his hair).

Takato: We understand, we would do anything we could to protect our parents too.

Rika bends down and gets on eye level, rubbing his head. Her motherly instincts are kicking in.

Rika: ...

A flashback is shown. It starts as a black flickering screen, suggesting she is holding something back. In it Takumi, Rika, and Wraith have just come home from watching an American Football game. By now it has finally reach other countries it seems. Takumi is dressed in a Football uniform, suggesting that he is a "Mega fan".

Takumi: American Football is so cool! Hut hut hut!

He gets in the position, then give Rika a quick slap on the butt as she walks by. Before she can even react, Wraith has already leapt between the two in an overly dramatic and heroic fashion... then punches the little boy in the face. Apparently having been knocked out cold, the boy blinks a few times, going from black to vision, black to vision, several times. He can hear Rika having a one sides argument. Wraith is as "Talkative" as ever.

Rika: Way to go, Wraith, now what am I going to tell his Dad?! And what do you think Mom's going to say?! Just look at the mark on his forehead!

As always, Orphan is sitting on the couch playing gameboy.

Orphan: Just tell him I did it. He already hates me anyway...

The two look at Orphan, then at each other. Wondering what they should do.

Rumiko: He was hit in the head by a Football?

White bandages in a "x" are on his forehead. Luckily, Takumi still seems to idolize Wraith, because he went along with the lie for them both.

Takumi's Father: In the stands? I heard that America Football could be dangerous but, for the audience?

Seiko Hata, Rika's Grandmother, looks back and forth between Rika and Wraith between sips of her tea. But, she says nothing despite probably knowing what happened. Rika and Wraith meet outside her room.

Rika: That was close-look, Wraith, you aren't trying very hard. It is important to me that you try and get along with Takumi. Don't you get it? Why I have been having you watch him? Don't get me wrong, I was angry. And I get that you were defending me. But I'm just hoping that when we, you know, have kids of our own, that you'll be more patient.

Wraith's eyes widen as she explains, he looks rather calm otherwise. She looks away with a bit of embarrassement, but she needs to get this point across.

Rika: Promise me you'll try harder.

He looks at the ground to his side.

Wraith: I'll try.

He turns around.

Wraith: I don't hate him.

He walks away. Ever since his father started dating Rumiko, it's has become common place for Takumi to sleep over at Rika's. Later that night, Wraith is walking the halls when Takumi comes running, crying. He apparently has had a nightmare. Despite his cold exterior, it would appear that Wraith has gotten closer to the child over the course of his babysitting duty. Wraith gets on one knee, he is about to ask what is wrong when the small boy grabs hold of him, bawling.

Takumi: T-The m-monster's after me! D-Don't let him g-get me-pleeeasssse!

Boy buries his face into wraith stomach. Wraith looks bewildered, not sure what to do. He's not good with "Excessive show of emotion". Rika stands around the corner, watching things unfold.

Renamon: Rika, what are you-

Rika: Shhhh! (Come on, Wraith. You can do this.)

Renamon hides against the wall along with her partner.

Renamon: (...I see, so that is what you are doing.)

Wraith hesitantly puts his arms down and wraps them around the child.

Takumi: Y-You're a monster too, s-so maybe the m-monster will b-be afraid of you!

Wraith: That's right, you don't need to be afraid. There is no such thing as monsters, only Digimon. And if a Digimon wants to get you, it will have to go through me.

Takumi: But h-he's a god!

Thunder strikes right on cue. Wraith gets the idea, the "Monster" he's referring to is Raijin. Someone must have instigated the nightmare, perhaps Wraith's brother or one of Takumi's family members.

Wraith: Whatever it is, I guarantee you, I am much stronger. I've killed gods before.

Takumi: Really?! That's so cool!

He wipes away the tears and smiles. Rika comes out from her hiding place, Renamon follows soon after.

Rika: And don't forget, he'll have to go through me and Renamon too!

Takumi: Wow, you're the best big sister ever!

A stress mark appears on Rika's still smiling face.

Rika: But if you ever touch me again I'll end you myself.

She says raising an annoyed fist. Takumi gets a sweat drop, shocked by the sudden change. The flashback ends there.

Rika: We told you, we just need the Dark Crest. Then we'll leave. We didn't even know Shutenmon was here until you mentioned it.

Rashomon: D-Dark Crest? I-I don't-don't know anything about that.

Kyubimon: Are you sure?

Rashomon: Of course, we(Ogre Digimon) don't lie, we aren't like humans!

Terriermon: Yeah, you just get drunk, pillage, squat in buildings, and murder... but okay-

Henry nudges him and Terriermon gives him an annoyed "What? It's the truth" look. As the Tamers start to walk away the child demon calls after them.

Rashomon: Wait, I'll come with you. I still don't like you guy's, you made Dad look bad. But I owe you.

As they climb the stairs Rashomon explains about this tower and why the Ogremon are living there.

Rashomon: They talk big, but with Srivatsamon appearing everywhere, everyone was scared. So the Big Three decided to join forces. We figured that if we found a place that's hard to get to and all banded together, we would have more of a chance of surviving.

Rika: So it's not just Ogremon living here?

Rashomon: Uh-uh, each of the Big Three has their own forces and they all came here to hide. I even brought some of Father's old friends here, hoping it would get him out of his room.

Henry: You mean, he won't leave?

Rashomon: He doesn't trust anyone anymore.

Terrerimon: It must be the Crest of Solitude.

The boy demon tilts his head, as if to say "Maybe". He stops in front of metal double doors and holds out a hand like a tourguide.

Rashomon: The first of the Big Three, Sugumon, is waiting for you inside. You'll have to beat him if you want to to speak with Lord Shutenmon.

Henry: Me and Terriermon will take him.

Renamon: By yourselves?

Takato: Are you sure?

He nods and walks through the doors. Using the stairs on the left side, the remaining four make their way to the next floor, where another set of double doors await. Rashomon once again puts an arm up.

Rashomon: The second of the Big Three, Auntie Gitsunemon is waiting for the next challenger.

Rika and Renamon enter this time, the doors slam shut...

Sitting there doing nothing can get quite boring and so Takato starts to daydream. Rashomon slowly, still watching Guilmon and Takato tip toes backwards into the shadows, disappearing from sight.

In the day dream memory, he calls Wraith on the phone, overwhelmed by an influx of customers at his parent's bakery.

Wraith: Hello?

Takato: Wraith, hey, it's Takato. Look I could really use your help.

Wraith: ...

Takato: We just got a lot of customers and they all are asking whether what we sell is "Kosher". My parent's are trying to answer the best they can-but none of us really know what Kosher means. So-

The Messiah's infuence has created an interest in Jewish dietary practices it would seem.

Wraith: So you called the only person you know who knows anything about Jewish laws.

Takato holds his breath. Not sure whether Wraith is being factual or feels insulted. Luckily for him-

Wraith: ...The bread you make, is it made using cows milk and chicken eggs?

He was being factual.

Takato: Yeah.

Wraith: And before mixing the flour do you make sure no insects no matter how small, including fruit flies, get into it?

Takato: Sure, always. Oh, but we do use yeast though. Does that matter?

Wraith: Not unless they are looking for bread for the Passover. According to everything you told me, the bread is Kosher.

Takato: R-Really?! Thanks, you're a life saver.

Wraith: Hnm.

He hangs up and Takato snaps back to reality when he hears multiple loud explosions. While worried about Henry and Terriermon, he tries to keep himself busy, retreating into his mind again. I suppose that is what you do when you get old, reminisce. In the next one, Takato is being pulled along by a laughing Jeri, dressed in a beautiful yellow dress.

Jeri: Ha-ha, come on Takato!

Takato: Hey, slow down!

He can see the other couples coming into the garden from other directions and starting to dance.

Takato: (We were so busy fighting in the Digital World, that we missed our actual Dance at school. So we had one of our own, one only for Tamers and Digi-Destined!)

Wraith and Rika, him wearing a suit and her, grudgingly wearing a dress, look embarrassed and shocked. The parents and children all planned the dance, but they arrived early. So, unintentionally, they've basically crashed what the two thought was going to be a private Dance. The other couples, however, don't give it much notice. They are too busy dancing with one another.

Takato: Hey, were those two seriously slow dancing to "Don't Stop Believin"? (Not very romantic. Was it somekind of compromise?)

Jeri: Dance with me, Takato!

Takato: Oh, sorry, Jeri!

Despite his embarrassment, Takato tries his best to dance along with his partner. Though, to him, he just looks silly. Jeri moves in slow motion as she smiles and twirls. With her hair down and in that dress, she is positively captivating. Naiyuta and Alice can both be seen dancing along with Henry, enjoying themselves. It looks like they are getting along, for now at least. Renamon is standing against a tree with her arms crossed. Gaomon walks up to Renamon, clears his throat and asks her if she would like to dance.

Gaomon: (Cough, Cough) Excuse me, but-would you like to dance?

Beelzemon, was coming up behind her to ask the very same thing, but Gaomon was quicker at the draw. The Demon Lord can be seen glaring at the two all night.

Takato: (Me and Jeri danced the night away.)

The scene cuts to later that night, all the couples are slow dancing now. Another American song is playing now, Celine Dion's " The Power of Love". Having gotten over their recent embarrassment, even Rika and Wraith are dancing. Henry is the only one not enjoying himself. Now that the real "Intimate" stuff's started, his two dates have started bickering. Not trying to get in the middle, he tries to calm them down, to no avail. Takato can here gasps and turns towards the commotion. The memory blurs as he forces himself back to reality.

Takato: We've been waiting a while now. And there were a lot of loud explosions in there, I hope they're alright. Hey, Rasho-he's gone!

He looks over and notices that Rashomon has disappeared.

Takato: Hey, uh, Guilmon? About what happened back-

Takato and Guilmon have been waiting for about a half an hour before the doors swing open.

Guilmon: Here they come!

A smiling Henry and Terriermon stroll out triumphantly, Sugumon can be seen smoldering on the ground. The proceeding scene shows Rika and her partner do the same. That is when the Tower starts to shake to and fro.

Takato: What is going on?!

Terriermon: An earthquake?!

An incredibly loud roar can be heard and there is no mistaking who it belongs to. Taowumon is fighting someone, and he is angry. Outside, Taowumon swipes at his enemy with both claws, Srivatsamon has arrived. The sky is now clear and shining brighter than the earth's sun by far.

Taowumon: Shǎnyào zhǎo! (Shine Claw!)

It backs away clumsily. Taowumon is surprisingly nimble, carefully avoiding the trees while attacking his foe.

Taowumon: Akarui iki (Bright Breath!)

Judging by his attacks, it would be safe to assume that his element is ironically, "Light". He waves his head back and forth like Godzilla, as the beam of light passes over the white trees, they transform into bright yellow, pink, and magenta-purple. He hovers over the forests with his wings then bashes into Srivatsamon. Inside, the Tamers climbing the stairs in a hurry.

Henry: Where did Rashomon go?!

Takato: I don't know, he snuck away! ...So, you guy's beat them a bit faster than I would have thought...

Henry: Well, you know, we had a little help-

Sugumon: Kings Edict!

A flashback shows a Badly beaten Rapidmon dodging two shots from Sugumon. The golden writing on the black paper scrolls he surrounds himself with are firing rows and rows of kanji made of light. A weak Rapidmon fires homing missiles at Sugumon. But every time he does, the black paper scrolls protect him.

Sugumon: Jaakuna te!

These very same scrolls also attack as soon as they appear. They immediately come back every time they are destroyed, effectively making him untouchable.

Sugumon: Ha ha ha! Do you see now?! I am the Emperor of all Digimon! You peasants do not stand a chance against me! Kaiser Claw!

A wave of green sickle shaped energy is hurled in their direction.

Rapidmon: (Arrogant bastard, ain't he?) What?! Where did these come from?!

Shadowy arms made of black smoke(Jaakuna Te) have come out of the floor and grabbed him. Rapidmon is unable to move.

Henry: Rapidmon! Youuuuu-!

Henry's eyes have turned red, revealing the Dark Crest of Hatred, now hanging around his neck rather than Takato's.

Sugumon: It is useless! Accept your fates, you were doomed as soon as you decided to-hnh?!

They Digivolve to BlackMegaGargomon just as the green energy wave hits them. His huge black fist punches right through the wall of paper scrolls on the left side of the self described "Emperor".

BlackMegaGargomon: Dark Saint Punch!

The look on their enemies face says it all. He is flabbergasted. Sugumon tries to block the next attack with his arms and wings.

BlackMegaGargomon: GA Missile!

The missiles explode, incinerating both the remaining scrolls on his right and the scrolls trying to reappear on the left. Sugumon is smoking, but still "standing", floating more accurately. Before he can react, BlackMegaGargomon blasts him with both the big missiles and the smaller missiles. Sugumon hits the ground and Henry and Terriermon separate, turning their backs on their enemy.

Takato: Ha! I knew that tag I gave you would come in handy!

Renamon: What about us?

Rika: Aren't you going to ask us about our fight?

Takato: ...So how did it go?

Rika: We dark Digivolved too.

She says with a sly grin.

Guilmon: But you gave Takato the Crest of Ignorance, before you went inside!

The flashback begins. Kyubimon, badly beaten, just like Rapidmon, attempts to take on the far superior Gitsunemon. She repeatedly lunges at her, but she dodges with ease. Realizing she can't touch her, she tries something else.

Kyubimon: Fox Tail Inferno!

Gitsunemon jumps around, causing some of the flames to hit the floor. The ones she fails to dodge she simply blocks with her many tails.

Gitsunemon: We both maybe foxes, but compared to me-you are only second rate. Sessho-seki !

A glowing pink stone appears at the tip of each tail and are flung at the helpless hero. She manages to dodge the first two by jumping back and then to the left, but is hit by the rest.

Rika: (Hold on, Kyubimon. I'll think of something...)

She looks at the Digimon card in her hand then gets an idea. The girl closes her eyes and concentrates and sure enough, the card turns black.

Rika: I knew it!(Just like back then...)

She remembers how they had turned regular cards into the blue cards while fighting the Boar Deva. Rika he swipes the card as Gitsunemon walks up to her partner casually.

(Digimon Rumble Arena: The fight for my friends plays).

BlackSakuyamon blocks Gitsunemon's claw attack with her staff. Greatly shocked by the sudden transformation, Gistunemon leaps back. BlackSakuyamon shoots three fox flame Spirits, one hits the floor when Gitsunemon jumps backward, the other comes from the right and the last the left.

Gistunemon: 9-Golden Tails!

The evil fox's tails become significantly larger, swiping and stabbing at BlackSakuyamon. That is when the enormous Fox Strike Omega comes for her on her right. It is far too large for her to dodge mid-air and she is swept up into it. She hits the ground hard, rolling to her left to avoid being impaled by BlackSakuyamon's Staff.

BlackSakuyamon: Amethyst Mandala!

Gistunemon is blasted away to the far right side of the room. Not letting up, BlackSakuyamon finishes the battle with another Fox Strike Omega. Like her compatriot, she is left on the ground, smoke trailing into the air.

Takato: Wow, that was so long ago. I never would have thought of that!

Rika: Yeah, well, you know Maitreyamon is going to have something to say about us using the Dark Crests...

Just then, the team reaches the bright room. Apparently Guilmon had heard what Takato was saying downstairs, because he whispersto him(With a smile no less) before they cross into the light.

Guilmon: I forgive you, Takato.

This makes Takato smile, Guilmon is always dependable when it comes to forgiveness. After passing through the relatively dark staircase, it actually burns their eyes. This room is completely different from the others, welcoming. It has shiny wooden floors, white walls, tables for dining, and hot green water baths for soaking. The various Digimon inside all stare at the newcomers.

Ogremon: Hnm, who are those guy's?

Ogremon 2: Are they the ones causing all that ruckus? They look kinds familiar.

It is somewhat obvious who's minions are whose. It is mostly the Ogremon that are in the baths, they belong to Shutenmon's forces. There are Karatenmon scattered around the room, sitting samurai style, they must be Sugumon's underlings. The Yakomon sleeping around the room seem to be Gitsunemon's minions( Red Kyubimon with black and yellow striped rope instead of white and red. Their feet are black and their faces are covered by white kunimitsu-like masks).

Yakomon: (Yawn)

There are also several random Yokai Digimon around the room, perhaps invited to help coax Shutenmon out of his room: Sakemon, who are Shutenmon's usual drinking buddies, and the Ogremon are the most plentiful by far.

Sakemon: Ooh ooh ah ah.

The list includes: Buramon, Akanamon, Abumigumimon, Amabiemon, Nukekumon, Gyukimon, Bakumon, Onmoramon, Bakemon, Dominomon(smaller), Wantomon, Tekemon, Hihimon, Fugamon, Hyogamon, Ashimon, Tenagmon, Jakumon, NueKimeramon, Skullhyumon, Kasamon, Hyotanmon, Kudamon, Shawjamon, Oboromon, Mitamamon, Shikomemon and Seasarmon.

Kurammon: Hnm? Who might they be?

There are also three special guests: Kurammmon, the gentle sage and rightful leader of all Karatenmon. And his wife, Aratamamon, a dark feminine entity born from Susanoomon's anger and hate. She is the Self-proclaimed "Guardian Mother" of all Yokai Digimon. Her strength is unknown, but rumor suggests she is more powerful than even the Big Three. The final guest is Hyotanmon, a rather average humanoid ghost Digimon who leads the Night Parade of 100 Demons. A celebration where a procession parades through the different Servers, plundering, banging drums and singing(screaming and howling). Anyone who tries to stop them or gets in their way is killed.

Ogremon: Wait, I know those guy's!

One of the Ogremon stands up in the bath, his Shikomemon attendant stops massaging his shoulders, backing away. Another gets up.

Ogremon 2: You're the one's who humiliated our Lord Shutenmon!

Ogremon 3: Yeah, beat the shit out of us too...

Takato: Woah woah woah, we don't want any-trouble!

He says, dodging the wooden basin which was just tossed at him.

Ogremon 2: Well, troubles found you!

Takato: Run!

The team sprints through the room, dodging the various Digimon lunging at them. Takato runs to the right of one Ogremon then ducks under the clutches of the other. Guilmon knocks over the one so the rest of his friends can run passed. Renamon and Terriermon knock over the second. One of the Sakemon, who looks a bit tipsy, stands up and belches an attack at them in the form of a stinking brown gas cloud. Rika looks around, seeing the other half-drunk Sakemon standing up, ready to do the same.

Rika: Aw, their monkey's, Andrew would love these guy's-!

Rika can't help but smile while saying it. The Sakemon aren't exactly trying very hard, they must be just trying to copy everyone else. They don't seem capable of human speech, especially given their adorable ape noises. Two Bakemon try to stop the Tamers, but Terriermon uses his Bunny Blast to send them packing.

Shutenmon: I've been hearing a lot of banging. What's going on out there?

Rashomon glances nervously at his Master, then back at the doors. Certain parts of the baths are surprisingly shallow, the gang uses these parts to simply run through to the other side. These Ogremon were simply minding their own business, they were just trying to enjoy their bath.

Ogremon: Hey!

Fugamon: At least take your shoes off first!

Rika: Sorry!

Takato: Excuse me, pardon me!

Terriermon: Comin through!

Multiple Shikomemon are waiting for them at the other end of the room. The Tamers duck and leap over as necessary. One of them still manages to catch Henry and kisses him on the cheek. But she then opens her mouth wide, showing her teeth, revealing her true intentions. Terriermon uses Terrier Tornado to get her off of him.

Karatenmon: Stop them-!

The kids slam the double doors shut and bolt them. Two Karatenmon can be seen reaching for them just before the doors close.

Rashomon: What?! Impossible! How did you get passed the entire Hyakki Yagyo?! Stay away from him, I won't let you near him!

He says bearing his teeth while bashing his knife on the floor. With his gums showing like that, it makes him look like an angry chimpanzee.

Shutenmon: Enough, Rashomon! I told you to bring them straight to me.

Tamers: (!)

Shutenmon did not intend for them to have to fight their way up here. It was all orchestrated by his son, Rashomon. In retrospect, the comment Rashomon made makes more sense now...

Flashback Rashomon: "You didn't kill me when you should've. So I guess my Father was right about you guys, at least a little bit."

Rashomon: But I-I...

Shutenmon: I am very disappointed.

Rashomon puts his head down in shame.

Takato: Wait, so it was all Rashomon, not you?! But-we thought-you set it all up! That you hated us and wanted revenge!

Shutenmon: No, I've long since gotten over that. I kidnapped your friend, you were just doing what you had to to save her.

Takato: (Well-technically, we didn't even know her yet-but I'm not gonna tell him that part.)

Shutenmon: My friends all abandoned me. But you showed me mercy, I am in your debt.

Henry: Why do I get the feeling there is more to this story.

Shutenmon: ... I failed, so I knew someone would come eventually. I had thought it would be the boy with the white hair, he was the one who first came to us with the offer. But I was wrong...

To his horror, Nori did not come, Wraith had come himself instead. Shutenmon, who is quite powerful himself, is shown on his hands and knees beaten almost to death by Pandemoniamon.

Shutenmon: I-I am sorry. Please, spare me-I beg of you.

His Ogremon underlings watch on but do nothing to stop it. Before the black tyrant can finish him off, Rashomon runs out of the woods, hugging his fathers head.

Rashomon: Papa, Papa! No! Please don't hurt him! Leave my Dad alone! Please just leave him alone...(Sobs)

Usually, the little ogre would never call his father by such a childish name. But he was extremely scared for him at the time, he honestly thought he would lose him. After seeing Rashomon, Pandemoniamon just leaves. Perhaps he felt bad for Rashomon or saw what he wished he had with his Father. Rika looks away, ashamed and sympathetic, he is her husband after all. The others feel sorry too. It has been so long, they've all come to see him as Andrew, their friend, and forgotten Wraith, their enemy.

Shutenmon: They all...abandoned me. Not once, but twice. And yet, you, my enemies, showed me mercy! It opened my eyes. You never abandoned your friend, you put yourselves in harms way to save her! So, I decided, I have no friends, just subordinates

There is a fairly long pause.

Shutenmon: ...What brings you here? What do you want from me?

Rika: We are looking for the Dark Crest of Solitude. We've been told it is somewhere in this Tower.

Guilmon's eyes go big, he notices something on the wall behind Shutenmon's throne.

Takato: What is it, Guilmon?

Renamon: There, on the wall!

Henry/Rika: The Crest!

Terriermon: That's it! That's what we've been looking for! That's all we want-!

He says jumping up and down.

Rashomon: That is what you guy's have been looking for?! That's just a piece of the wall!

Shutenmon: It has been here ever since we moved in...

Takato: And it's probably what's been making you so lonely.

Henry: The Dark Crests magnify negative emotions, make you sick.

Rika: If we take it for you, chances are you'll return to normal.

There is another pause.

Shutenmon: First, I have a request. Will you fight me just one more time?

Tamers: What?! With everything going on-out there?!

He says while bracing himself as the the tower is once again shook violently.

Shutenmon: It can't be helped, I need to find out once and for all. I need to know how things would have turned out if we had fought that day. Otherwise, I can never move on.

Takato: But-it wasn't just us! There were also Takuya, Tommy, JP, Zoey, and-

Shutenmon: It doesn't matter. Just do this for me, please.

The gang looks to their leader.

Takato: Looks like we don't have any other choice. But, I have to warn you, we've already defeated Gitsunemon and Sugumon.

Shutenmon: Oh, confident, are we? Ha ha, that's alright, don't hold back!

He says winding up his right arm while massaging the shoulder. Like when they fought him before, Shutenmon comes off oddly cordial, pleasant even.

Rashomon: Lord Shutenmon is the strongest of the Big Three!

All three Digivolve to their Mega Levels.

Shutenmon: Vermillion Punch!

Taomon hits his fist with her brush, but the red energy that comes after splits in half. Sending Taomon flying to the ground several feet away. He then takes a swooping punch at Rapidmon, who leaps over it and Rapid Fire's him.

Shutenmon: Inferno Blast!

A burst of fire is spit from his mouth, forcing Rapidmon to retreat. WarGrowlmon waits until just after Shutenmon finishes the attack before taking a chance. He grabs hold of Shutenmon's right arm. Wrapping his Assault Balancer around his foes neck. The demon grips the Balancer then spits a small fire ball in WarGrowlmon's face. As soon as he let's go, Shutenmon, with a twirl, tosses him away.

Shutenmon: Kurai Fumiyaburu!

As Rapidmon and Taomon go to assault him once more, he stomps the ground with one foot. A violet explosion radiates from it and they are stopped in their tracks. He then stretches his arms way back and claps his hands together. The wind blows them away.

Shutenmon: Hah ha! This is fun!

Rika: This isn't working.

Henry: We're going to have to use the Dark Crests to Mega Digivolve.

Takato: Let's do it.

Shutenmon: Hoo-hoo! So you're finally getting serious! Glad to hear it!

He puts his left hand above his head.

Shutenmon: Dai Kunshu.

His metal kinabo appears out of nowhere and falls into his hand.

All: Digivolve!

Takato and Henry use the Crests of Hatred and Ignorance while Rika uses the black Digimon Card.

Takato: (Stay in control. Stay in control. you can do this)

Sakuyamon: Spirit Strike Omega!

A huge red fiery spirit fox heads for Shutenmon. With a simple swing of his Kinabo, the attack evaporates. She tries several time more, but he just keeps doing the same thing, only faster.

BlackMegaGargomon: Burst Shot!

The oni overlord doesn't wait for the missiles to reach him. Instead, he lunges forward with surprising speed and kicks Black Sakuyamon into the wall above the double doors. The impact creates an imprint and a large dust cloud. BlackMegaGargomon reaches for the oni, but he blocks with his Kinabo, then headbutts him. He then Kicks him to the round.

ChaosGallantmon: Demon Disaster!

He repeatedly stabs him in the back of his left leg. He whips around to flatten the knight with his Kinabo.

BlackMegaGargomon: Giant Missiles!

Shutenmon is hit in the back, causing him to stumble forward. Seizing the moment ChaosGallantmon uses his Spiral Wailer Attack on his chest . Sakuyamon shoots him in the side with a Spirit Strike Omega then jumps into the air.

BlackSakuyamon: Flaming Fox!

She drops down on his back with the flaming kick.

BlackSakuyamon: Spinel Mandala!

The barrier hits him in the stomach.

BlackMegaGargomon: Quick, get out of the way!

BlackMegaGargomon: Burst Shot!

ChaosGallantmon: Chaos Crusher!

Both attacks hit their mark. All three charge towards him before the smoke clears. When ChaosGallantmon jumps into the air, ready strike, Shutenmon smashes him into the ground using his Kinabo. Then catches BlackMegaGargomon's fist with his left hand. He spins back onto his feet, tripping BlackMegaGargomon.

Shutenmon: Inferno Blast!

The two roll out of the attacks range. BlackSakuyamon leaps closer to the ogre, hitting him in the face with her staff. He retaliates by headbutting her, then uses Vermillion Punch as an upper cut on her. She hits the ceiling, when she falls back to his level, he hits her away with his Kinabo.

A soon as ChaosGallantmon comes for him Shutenmon swings his weapon downward.

ChaosGallantmon: Spiral Wailer!

The Kinabo cracks and Shutenmon notices. While he glances at it he is punched in the jaw by BlackMegaGargomon.

ChaosGallantmon: Gallant Charge!

ChaosGallantmon bashes into his right leg.

Black Sakuyamon jumps off of BlackMegaGargomon, landing on the other side of the Oni. She had left a Paper talisman on his head, sealing some of his abilities.

BlackSakuyamon: Fox Card!

All three regroup at his front and attack at the same time with thrust, punch, and kick. He starts to take steps backward, his Kinabo breaks to pieces, unable to withstand that many attacks at once.

ChaosGallantmon: Chaos crusher!

BlackSakuyamon: Spirit Strike Omega!

BlackMegaGargomon: GA Missile!

Shutenmon finally goes down, flying across the floor, stopping right in front of his throne.

Rashomon: Lord Shutenmon!

His son runs to him. Shutenmon tries to lift his head, but after seeing the Tamers poised to attack once again, he then drops his head back onto the floor.

Shutenmon: Alright, that's enough. You win.

In the next scene, Shutenmon rips the slab out of the wall. By now the banging outside has stopped. Which means either of two things, one, Taowumon has been killed, or two, he fought off Srivatsamon. Henry holds up the Tag, both glow a Dark Blue.

Shutenmon: !

The large slab shrinks in his hands and flies into the necklace.

Rashomon: Well, Father, do you feel any better?

Shutenmon: Yes. In fact, I think I'm willing to forgive everyone at this point!

Rashomon: So you're back to your old self again!

Shutenmon: Not exactly. I came to realize something while under the crest's influence. I don't want to go back to drinking, I want to be better. I want to go back to the way I was before I became one of the Big Three.

Takato: Before...

Guilmon: The Big Three?

Rika: So, you weren't always the leader of a group of bandits?

Shutenmon: You kids may not believe this, but I was a student under Sanzomon once, a monk. She taught me the way of Shakamon.

Terriermon: Well, why didn't you stick with that?!

Shutenmon: Well, I kind of fell in with the wrong crowd.

First, he is shown coming across the Sakemon on a beach. They are lounging around, gorging themselves on Sake Alcohol. One of the apes, tipsy as he was, handed him a bottle. While he initally rejects the offer, curiosity ultimately wins out and he takes a sip. From that day on, he was a secret alcoholic. Sanzomon had been watching from the woods, but decided that she would not intervene so long as he did not try to influence the other monks. In the second scene, he is shown watching a band of Ogremon stealing from a food cart, harassing the owner. Though he tries to stop them, they convince him in the end. Pointing out that, with his size and strength, he can make just about anyone give him anything he wants. Why meditate and work hard for "Enlightenment" when you can live a great life instead. After that day, he had gone out almost every night, bullying and intimidating just for the rush.

Shutenmon: I was cast out when I started getting drunk and intimidating the other Digimon. I regretted it every day since. But, from this day forward, we are no longer going to steal. We're going to work hard both for a living and to make amends for what we've done. The Hyakki Yagyō is welcome to join me if they wish. But I am doing it with or without them.

Rashomon: ...Then I'm coming with ya, Dad!

Shutenmon: Good. I hope you kids can find a way to defeat Srivatsamon, I'll be rooting for you.

The Tamers nod.

Chapter 9:

Rika walks into the room, stopping in front of Orphan. Usually, the two would never interact because they don't get along very well. But she is desperate. The boy notices her shadow hanging over him as he scrolls through his phone with ear buds in.

Orphan: Can I help you?

He notices that she looks worried about something, so he takes out the ear buds and places his phone on the couch cushion to his left.

Rika: Look, I know you don't like me-

Orphan: What makes you say that?

Seriously, did he really just ask that question? A hilarious short clip show shows three instances where he had called her "Bitch".

Flash back Orphan: "This little Bitch" "Die you bitch!" "You squinty eyed bitch!"

Rika: I-I need your help. It's Wraith, he's been acting different lately.

Orphan: Different? Different how?

His phone rings. It says "Negress Lesbian"

He picks up the phone.

Orphan: (Sigh) Just a minute, that lesbian keeps calling me. "No I will not make out with you!"

Mason(Pi): What the-

Matthew hangs up immediately.

Orphan: You were saying?

Rika: I'm worried...that he might not have feelings for me anymore. Whenever we're together, he seems distant...distracted.

Orphan: Well, I haven't noticed anything. But, have you tried doing anything different, like, to keep the romance alive?

Rika: Like what?

Orphan: Grrrr, hold on. She's calling again. "Go back to bitch Nigga!"

Mason(Pi): It's "Bic nawh(Bich Nga)", and it's not pronounced-

He hangs up again.

Rika: Any pointers?

Orphan: Yeah, but, well, you're not going to like it. If he's anything like me, he's an "Ass man".

In the next scene, Rika walks into Wraith's apartment, blushing, mortified. She has always had a lot of self respect, priding herself in being the "cool girl". Objectifying and sexualizing herself is like betraying who she is. But, she loves Wraith more.

Rika: Hey, Wraith. Your mom want's me to find a magazine for her.

Closing her eyes and taking a breath, she purposely bends over to search through the basket full of magazines.

Rika: She needs one of the recipes.

Blushing with embarrassment, she tries to put her butt into focus, pushing it out a little. Wraith, watches her silently. It is clear by his expression that he is uncomfortable with the situation. And not a little perplexed as well. Seeing someone so proud humiliating herself is painful.

Wraith: (This isn't like her.) What are you doing?

She blushes even harder, gritting her teeth.

Rika: D-amn it, Wraith! Do you really think I want to do this?!

Wraith: Why-?

Rika: Because your brother said you liked it, and I'm afraid of losing you!

Wraith: Hnm?

Rika: You've been so distant lately. I-I just thought...

Wraith: It's not you. There has just been something on my mind lately.

Rika: What?

Wraith: ...Never mind. I'm sorry, let's go to the park.

In the next scene They are standing on Taowumon's cliff. He is licking his paw, which has, along a lot of his body, has been badly scratched. Despite this, Srivatsamon is nowhere to be seen, so it stands to reason that he managed to chase it off.

Taowumon: So you have found it, the Dark Crest? That is-goood

The six just keep staring at him, intimidated by his sheer size. Though also because he is clearly hurt, pretty badly too.

Taowumon: It is still "alive", if that is what you are wondering.

Henry: I guess he managed to chase it off...barely

Taowumon: Grrrr-it escaped through the tear in space, there-

Following his head motion, they look below, where a large tear has been made in space.

Taowumon: You are going to search for the next Dark Crest, I would imagine. Which reminds me, Qiongqimon requests an audience with you. I would suggest you go to visit him before you do anything else.

Takato: Qiongqimon?

Guilmon: Who is that?

Taowumon: You could say he is your "Guardian Angel".

He says with a sarcastic little grin.

Taowumon: He is the one who convinced the four of us to help you. While none of us would admit it, he is the smartest one among us. You could call him the De-facto "Leader" when our Master, the Grave Peril, Zhonglumon, is not around.

Takato: ("Grave Peril", Zhonglumon, so that's their leaders name.)

Renamon: What does he want with us?

Taowumon: I do not know. It is difficult to grasp what is going through his head. But, to tell you where you can find another Crest, I'd imagine.

Just then below, the tear in reality acts up, tearing a significantly smaller hole in space just to the right of the children. Just then, five winged monkey Digimon drop down from nowhere, on the left side of the cliff. They look like Makuramon, but with black fur, blue faces, wings, and red vests and hats. Otherwise, they aren't wearing much.

Taowumon: (Roar)

An enraged Taowumon lets out a deafening roar as he steps back in surprise. This does not last long, he quickly swipes at them. He is too late however, and his foes wind gust and swiping attacks make landfall at the Tamers. Backing up, they are sent tumbling through the rift in an out of control fashion. Back in the Tower, the Witchmon watches through a telescope. She looks to her side, gritting her teeth. After taking a few steps away from the scope, she changes in a puff of smoke.

Witchmon: Yaaah!

Sitting on a levitating broom, she now becomes a green version of herself with black hair, decked in all black clothes. Her hat is crooked on her head, covering her one eye. She gives chase, entering the rift, just barely missing the fight between Taowumon and the flying monkey's. On the otherside, the gang rolls down a hill and into a ditch situated in the quite literal middle of a war zone. The place is muddy, rainy and bombs are going off everywhere. Barbed wire is scattered about. Henry is knocked unconscious, it's only for a few seconds, but he has a memory play out through his head.

Henry: There he is-!

Takato: Quick-!

Henry, Takato, Guilmon, Terriermon and all their families have come to visit Israel. To make offerings at the Third Temple, really. But, not being Jewish, and not knowing their way around, they are all a bit scared.

Orphan: Hey, listen to JC own these liberals.

He says chuckling. He holds his phones out so his mother and Wraith can see it and taps the video. An African-American News Reporter with a mustache and glasses is sitting at a desk, reading off the news.

Reporter: With new trends taking hold in the world today, the Democrats and left leaning politicians have become increasingly concerned about possible Civil Rights violations along the lines of "Gay marriage, Transgender rights, and abortion". When confronted, the Prince of Israel had this to say...

Ha'Mashiach: I must do that which my Father in Heaven commands. I have come to please him, not you.

He immediately steps away from the podium and walks off stage. Knowing that Wraith does know a bit about religion and Judaism, they hurry towards him. His mother, brother, Rika, Rumiko, and her Grandmother are all there too. Both boys look wild eyed, grabbing Wraith by the shoulders.

Takato: Thank the gods-I mean "God", we found you!

They look more calm now.

Henry: We are supposed to come here once a year to make offerings. But we don't know our way around here, or even know the rules. Are we even allowed inside the Temple?

Wraith: ("In those days ten people from all languages and nations will take firm hold of one Jew by the hem of his robe and say, 'Let us go with you, because we have heard that God is with you.'")

Everyone, including Wraith's mother, look at him. By now, he knows more than she does. He closes his eyes for a few seconds, then opens them again.

Wraith: Are you circumcised?

Everyone present looks shocked and mortified at this question.

All: Waaaaaaah?!

Henry wakes up. They never were allowed in the Temple that day, they weren't even allowed within it's boundries. None of the males were circumcised. Wraith explained to the Priest, who took their offerings and then made the offerings for them. They only caught a glimpse of Tsidkenu Tselev(Or Yeshua, if you prefer).

Rika: Paah!

Henry: Where are we?!

Renamon: I don't know, but wherever it is, there appears to be a war going on!

Terriermon: Ya think?!

He says holiding his ears. A bomb goes off a few feet north of them and everyone rushes south in a panic. Blocking with their hands, they run, barely able to hear or even see one another. Everything is so confusing and disorienting with all these bombs going off. And the rain doesn't help.

Takato: We-cough-have to get out of here! Follow me!

Commandramon are on the top of the right side of the ditch, shooting at the enemy on the left side. They look more skiddish than the ones on the left. The camera zooms out a little, showing Pteramon dropping bombs. A Sealsdramon, leaps over the ditch and tussels with another on the right. Both tumble into the ditch, still fighting. The Tamers and Digi-friends have to hug the muddy left wall in order to avoid them. As they go further down, they move from ditch to trench. A Commandramon catches sight of them, but he doesn't seem dangerous, rather, concerned.

Commandramon: Civilians? What are you doing here?!

Takato: We're lost!

The Commandramon looks around the bend to his right and waves on some other Soldiers.

Commandramon: Hey, we have civilians! We have civilians here!

Commandramon 2(Leader): No choice! Take them with us, follow me!

Commandramon: Look out!

The Witchmon comes hovering just above them, raising her hand. There are two monkey digimon flying on her right and left side.

Commandramon 3: I-It's The Witch!

Witchmon: Ignis liquefactio!

Rather than using water, she creates a big orange fire ball. Now there are about five Commandramon, and each releases a hail of bullets from his gun. The fire ball disappears as the witch blocks with her right arm.

Witchmon: Drgghh!

Commandramon: These civilians are under our protection and we won't let you hurt them! Fire, men! Fire!

Witchmon: Cenaculo dolum. Scry Ball! Haaaaaaaahhahahahahahah!

She and her minions disappear in a puff of red smoke. But as she does this a large ball of light falls to the ground.

Commandramon Leader: It's a bomb! Everyone, duck in cover!

They all leap to the ground and out of the way. The Tamers are forced to do the same, retreating the way they came. The ball of light twists and turns, as Takato looks grips the earth, he can feel it trying to pull him and the others inside. The Digimon in the sky never had a chance, and are pulled in as soon as they get near it. But after a long fifteen seconds, the sphere disappears, leaving nothing but a moderately sized crater. Ironically, the bombs and gunfire has lessened by this point.

Commandramon Leader: All clear, men. Everyone alright?

Rika: Yeah, but who was that?

Guilmon: And why would she want to attack us?

Commandramon Leader: F-Follow us, we'll get you out of the war zone.

The scene cuts to the children sitting around a campfire, protected by the ruins they are in. Bombs and gunfire can still be heard, but only much quieter. The shivering children each have brown panchos pulled over their bodies as their clothes dry on the line over the fire. Rika nods off for a few moments. A dream comes to her in the form of a humorous memory. In it, Takumi is trying to take the gameboy from Orphan. Wraith sits there in silence, once again wrapped in his cape.

Orphan: Get off, it's mine!

Takumi: Come on, I wanna try!

Rika, who was doing a book report while this was happening, storms into the room. Takumi first looks over his shoulder...

Orphan: I don't care.

Rika: Do you mind?! I'm trying to do book report here!

Orphan: Hey, tell it to the little turd burglar. He's the one tryining to steal my gameboy.

...Then turns around.

Takumi: Can we help?

Rika: (Exhale) Not unless you can tell me anything about the European-

Wraith: All Europeans are whores...

He says as if it is a fact, with a note of resentment. She first looks shocked then grits her teeth, clamping her eyes shut, a stress mark on her head.

Rika: B-Be that as it may-

The dream fizzes and fades into another. In this one, Rika sounds frantic. "The Power of Love" by Celine Dion is playing.

Rika: Wr-Wraith? Wraith?! B-babe, what's the matter?! L-Look at me, what's wrong?!

The scene cuts to several minutes before. Rumiko and her Grandmother eagerly wave Rika on. She comes out from the dark shyly, wearing a beautiful white dress.

Rika: Let's just get this over with.

Wraith waits across from her wearing a tuxedo, a hand out for her to hold. He has a small smile. "Don't stop believin" by Journey is playing in the background. It must have been a compromise, Wraith probably thought it would make the slow dance less awkward. The two come together, holding hands. Their eyes meet and the two start to dance romantically. After a while, she rests her head on him. But that is when the others come literally running onto the scene, early too I might add. The two lovers look wide eyed as the other laughing children enter the garden. While embarrassed, it doesn't seem like the others are paying them much attention. In the next scene, Rika is once again slow-dancing with her man. As they dance she look around, smiling. The two are now much more comfortable, even with the others around.

Rika: Everything turned out okay. Look, Mom and Grandma are still watching us... I wish dad was here...

Wraith's heart beats fast in his chest, his breath becomes labored as he starts to sink the ground. Rika's head whips back around, helping him to the ground slowly.

Wr-Wraith? Wraith?! B-babe, what's going?! Mom! Mom!

Her mother hurries towards the two of them while her mother calls an ambulance.

Rika: J-Just look at me, forget everything else, just keep your eyes on me. I-It's okay! E-Everything is going to be okay! C-Can you hear me?

The others run towards him.

Rika: Stay back, give him some air!

Renamon: What happened?!

Rika: I don't know, we were dancing, then he just... collapsed.

After the ambulance arrives, Wraith sits inside, an oxygen mask on his face.

Rika: Hey. The paramedics say you had a panic attack.

Wraith looks away from her, keeping his mouth shut.

Rika: Look, you don't have to tell me now. But, I can't help you if you won't talk to me.

Wraith: ...My father is coming to visit.

Commandramon Leader: Nobody get to comfortable. As soon as these civilians clothes are dry, w-we're heading out!

Rika wakes from the yelling. He sits down with the Tamers.

Commandramon Leader: We just follow orders. I can't tell you who that Witchmon was. Though I can tell you we've spotted her fighting on the enemies side every now and then.

Guilmon: Why did you help us?

Commandramon Leader: Because anyone who isn't the enemy is our friend!

He says smiling.

Takato: How long has the war been going on?

Commandramon Leader: We've been fighting for hundreds of years.

He says looking sad now. The camera shows the war raging on outside. There are Tankdramon, Sealsdramon, Commandramon, Hi-Commandramon, Cargodramon, Brigadramon, Tankmon, Assaultmon, and Pteramon all fighting, killing each other.

Renamon: How did it start?

Commandramon Leader: I don't know. And there are few who can remember.

Rika stands up.

Rika: What?! You've been fighting a war, killing each other, for hundreds of years-and you don't even know why?!

He looks shocked, and a little intimidated, a sweat drops on his head. As she does this part of the blanket comes open revealing her light blue underwear. Takato and Henry look away, Guilmon and Terriermon cover their eyes. Renamon's eyes get a little big, blushing slightly.

Renamon: R-Rika...

She looks at her male friends.

Rika: Oh, grow up. It's not like I'm naked, and is this really all that different from a bathingsuit?

Nonetheless, she does closes the pancho back around herself.

Commandramon Leader: We fight to keep them from entering our territory. But we never enter their's. It's too dangerous.

His buddies sit in the shadows nearby, they simply cock and re-assemble their weapons in silence. They all look defeated, scared.

Renamon: And they feel no guilt?

He shakes his head.

Commandramon: Anyone they capture is either killed, or forced to slave away in a concentration camp. Where they will probably die anyway. Unless, you agree to join them, that is. Which, some do.

Henry: It's just... a vicious cycle... (The Dark Crest of Cruelty?)

The Tamers and their partners each give each other meaningful looks. They all are thinking the same thing.

Commandramon Leader: Hnm?

Rika: If you let them keep killing you...

Guilmon: And your enemy keeps coming back.

Henry: Then the war will just keep going on forever. Nothing will change.

Renamon: Unless you take the fight to them.

This statement seems to get through to them on some level. Until...

Sealsdramon: We cannot pass the enemy boundry, we would be killed!

The Digimon says darkly. Despite the fact that he is stronger and technically out ranks the lead Commandramon, it would seem that he willingly takes orders from him. Perhaps they decided as a platoon that this particular Commandramon was better suited to be leader.

Commandramon Leader: ...We'll take you to HQ once you've dried off.

Lightning strikes, the rain is hitting the roof harder. He notices his guests glancing at the ceiling, clearly listening to the rain. They then look at their clothes, it is obvious what they are thinking.

Commandramon Leader: Those are water proof. You won't get soaked this time.

He says pointing at the panchos.

Commandramon Leader: Anyway, as I was saying... if you are really that interested. If anyone can tell you how the war started, it's Leomon.

Takato: Why's that?

Commandramon Leader: Because if the rumors are true, then him and the enemy general used to know each other.

The scene cuts to what appears to be an Andromon hitting an enemy out of the way, then shooting several far off targets. However, he isn't entirely the same as most Andromon. He lacks the "Human" characteristics. His eyes are a glassy purple, and all his fleshy parts are encased in metal. Even his personality seems less human, more hollow.

Renamon: They knew each other?

Commandramon Leader: Correct.

Terriermon: Then how the heck did they end up on opposite sides of the war?!

Commandramon Leader: I do not know.

He gets up patting his pants to get the dust off.

Commandramon Leader: I think that is long enough, your things should be dry now.

Now semi-warm and fully dressed, the gang gets ready to head out.

Commandramon Leader: Alright, make sure you kids wrap those nice and tight around yourselves and put the hoods up!

Takato: But we're not-never mind.

Henry looks over at the platoon.

Henry: What about you?

Terriermon: Aren't you guy's gonna get wet?

Sealsdramon: We are soldiers, we are used to harsh weather.

Commandramon leader: Alright, men! M-Move out!

Platoon: Sir, y-yes, Sir!

The Team follows the soldiers through a labyrinth of trenches. They are so complicated you need a map. And even with the map, the Leader had to stop and ask the occasional Pteramon or Commandramon for directions. After several hours of boards, wire, and mud, they finally reach a kind of bunker.

Sealsdramon: (Sigh) I like it here, it always makes me feel a little bit better.

Commandramon Leader: Ah, me too.

The lead Commandramon salutes the guards at the entrance, two Tankmon. And they do the same.

Takato: (Everyone is so scared. But, sometimes, Digimon have to fight. It's just a part of life for them... at least it's supposed to be.)

Tankmon: What brings you here?

Commandramon Leader: These children want to speak with the Leomon.

Takato: Please, we think we can help you with your fight.

The others look at him with a "What did you just say?!" look.

Rika: What?! What are you saying, Takato?! I know we need the Crest of Cruelty, but fighting an army is suicide!

Takato: We're not going to be fighting alone.

He puts a hand out, signaling "Shh, I know what I am doing".

Takato: We have come a long way. We are searching for magical objects, called "The Dark Crests". We think they can help us in defeating a creature called Srivatsamon-

Tankmon 1: Look, I don't know anything about any "Srivatsamon". And we don't have time to babysit you kids. Seeing as we're now fighting two enemies.

Renamon: Two enemies?

Tankmon 2: Yeah, first we have the war to deal with. And now that big orange thing came through here.

Henry: We think one of the Crest can be found here! The Dark Crest of Cruelty! We think that if we have it, we can kill it!

Leomon: I'm sorry, but are you saying that you might know a way of slaying that orange creature? Did I hear that right?

Drawn by the voices, the Leomon steps forward, just in front of the doorframe.

Leomon: ... Humans(!)

He doesn't sound angry or spiteful, but a bit surprised. And there is a note of something else... But he smiles upon seeing the Leading Commandramon just the same. This distracts him.

Leomon: Ah, Master Sergeant...

Commandramon Leader: It is good to see you again, General, Sir.

Leomon: I've told you, don't call me that. I'm not really a soldier, I have no idea why everyone has gotten it in their minds that I am somekind of "General". It is you, you who are doing the real fighting. You are the heroes, not me.

Despite his insistence that he is not a solider. He is wearing a stereotypical green military uniform coat drapped over his shoulders like a cape and a hat on his head. Making him have a BanchoLeomon vibe. He also has dog tags hanging around his neck, but they are mostly covered by his coat. He pauses.

Leomon: What brings you here? Do you have news from the front?

Commandramon: Civilians, Sir. They have traveled a long way to speak with you.

Leomon: Ah, yes, yes, the humans. You wanted to tell me about the orange entity, "Srivatsamon", I think you called it? Don't be shy, come in, come in.

He turns around, returning to the square table at the center of the room. A map is splayed out on top of it, showing the layout of the warzone. There are two Hi-Commandramon standing in the corners on right side wall.

Leomon: So, tell me what you know of this "Srivatsamon"? Our soldiers fired everything they had at it and it had absolutely no effect.

Renamon: That is because Srivatsamon is invincible.

Leomon: But I thought you said-

Takato: We know how to defeat it. We are looking for the Dark Crests.

Leomon: And what makes you so sure that they will help you defeat it?

Guilmon: Because that is what Maitreyamon told us to do!

Leomon: Maitreya...mon? Hnm... I have never heard of such a Digimon.

Henry: He is Shakamon's successor, the next Buddha.

Leomon: Shakamon? Well, if he is Shakamon's successor, then surely his word must be trustworthy! Though I must admit, I find it quite strange that Shakamon's successor would enlist you to find "Dark" relics. Ah, never mind! How can we help?!

Takato: Well, we think we know where the Dark Crest of Cruelty is.

Takato looks at his friends, then back at the Leomon.

Takato: It is way in enemy territory, behind enemy lines. So, what we need is for you to-

The Leomon puts his hand up to stop him from continuing.

Leomon: I am sorry, but we cannot do that. To do that would mean risking far to many lives.

Rika: But...you're losing lives now!

Renamon: The war will continue until you, step up, take a risk, and charge the enemy stronghold!

Terriermon: And if you go with them I'm sure they will-

With this, he finally becomes enraged. While it stuns them all into silence, Takato watches his body language.

Leomon: Never! it would risk too many lives.

Takato: That is not the problem, you're afraid.

Leomon: A-Afraid?

Takato: What are you so afraid of? Are you that scared to face Andromon?

Leomon: W-Who told you about that?! You know what?! Never mind! All of you, out, I cannot help you! Get out and don't come back! You, take your men, and head back to the front!

He says pointing at the Commandramon Leader. Who looks flabbergasted.

Rika: Hey, don't take out your anger on him!

Renamon: It is us, you are angry with.

Leomon: Stay out of this!

Commandramon: B-But sir... I-

He rips the patch off his uniform and tosses it at the Sealsdramon.

Leomon: And you, you are supposed to be the commanding officer! Act like one, and take some responsibility, you coward!

Takato: Is it him, or you that is the coward?

He says, his eyes looking uncharacteristically calm and stern. Takato isn't afraid at all, I guess that comes with being an adult.

Leomon: Get-out.

They do as they are told.

Leomon: What is eveyone looking at?! You wanted a General, well, here it is.

Outside, the Tamers reconvene with the platoon leader. He looks sullen.

Commandramon Leader: I'm sorry, Leomon refused to help you.

Henry: No, we're sorry we got you demoted.

He nods, but doesn't look any happier.

Guilmon: Are you going to be okay?

The Sealsdramon walks up behind him, holding out the patch.

Sealsdramon: Sir, I want you to continue being our leader.

He shakes his head back and forth in response without turning around.

Commandramon: No. You heard Leomon. You are the leader now.

Rika: Why do you care so much what that Leomon thinks?! He's said it himself, he's not even really part of the military!

Terriermon: He's just one of two people who started the war!

Commandramon: You don't know that!

He says clamping his eyes shut and yelling.

Henry: But it does make sense.

Commandramon: You want to know why I follow his orders, and consider him my General? It's not because he supposedly was some "great Hero" a long time ago. And it's not because he knows how all this started, like everyone else. It's because... he saved my life. I was young then. The bullets were flying everywhere, and I just froze, right there on the ground. Too scared to move. That is when he came, grabbing me by the arm, he dragged me to safety. He was shot in the left arm and twice in the back, but that didn't stop him. And when I tried to apologize, he just smiled and gave me the thumbs up. That is the Leomon I know!

He says tearing up. The other begin marching back to the front.

Commandramon: I really hope you find what you guys are looking for.

Terriermon: See ya, be safe!

He says, waving goodbye while he joins the rest of the platoon. The team now has their own private meeting just outside the other end of the bunker.

Rika: Now what?

Takato: I know, my plan fell through. I was hoping we could convince them to help us storm the enemy stronghold.

Henry: Well, that's definitely not going to happen now.

Takato: Maybe it will.

Rika: What?! What do you mean, Takato?!

Takato: Didn't you guy's notice?

Henry: Notice what?

Takato: So you didn't notice...

Guilmon: I did! Leomon acted really mad, but really, he was scared! The Digimon on this side are really scared too, but the Digimon on the other side are cruel!

Takato: That's right.

Terriermon: So what you're saying is-

Henry: The Dark Crest of Cowardice! That there are two Dark Crests!

Renamon: One on each side.

Rika: But how are we going to find them?

Takato: I don't that know yet. But, if my hunch is right, then Leomon has it.

Rika: Leomon?!

?: Please, don't judge him too harshly.

Takato: Who is-

Henry: It's the Nohemon, from before.

A quick flashback shows them talking to him and scratching his head with a finger.

Takato: what are you doing here?

Nohemon: I've been thinkin it over awful hard. N' I reckon it is bout time I stop runnin.

Guilmon: Running?

Nohemon: I knew Leomon, him and Andromon both, a long long time ago.

Takato: You knew them?!

Nohemon: We were all friends, the four of us.

Takato: Wait, four?

Nohemon: Confront him-

Rika: But he'll just throw us out again!

Nohemon: Ask him about "Dorothy". See if he remembers the promise he made to her... I'll go with ya.

He says determined. After knocking out the Tankmon out front, the Tamers burst into the Leomon's private bunker.

Leomon: What is this? You again?

He says backing away, against the wall. The two Hi-Commandramon

Nohemon: Oh, looky heeerrrre! Looks like you gone turned right around back into a coward.

Leomon: N-Nohemon! What are you-where have you been all this time?! You just left, abandoned me, I didn't know what to do!

Nohemon: What's important is that I remembered where I should be! I just couldn't stand seein' you two fightin like that anymore! But that is in the past now! I seen him, somethin awful wrong with em. Now spill it! Tell me what happened to our friend, but first- tell them the whole story, tell'em about her.

Leomon: Nohemon-please.

Nohemon: Do you even remember the promise you made to her?

Leomon: Of course I do!

He says, unable to make eye contact with his friend.

Rika: Who was "Dorothy"?

Leomon: She was... our Digi-Destined.

All: (!)

The story turns into a flashback as he narrates.

Leomon: The world was beautiful back then. Nothing but trees, and lush green fields. She just, fellow out of the sky one day.

The girls has dark brown hair made into braided pigtails with red ribbons, fair skin(With freckles), she wears a blue and white checkered dress with suspender straps, and white shirt with puffy sleeves at the shoulders, white socks and dark brown shoes.

Leomon: Nohemon was the first one she met. He was in a field, someone had stuck a pole up through his clothes, he was stuck and couldn't get loose. A nice girl, she helped him get free and the two became fast friends. After that she found Andromon. But I'll get back to him later. And then, last but not least, she had found me. Having been born and raised in the same "Onza" fields, we of course knew of each other, but never truly interacted until that day. But, she changed something in me, in all of us. and We all became..."friends".

Rika: (Wait, I know where this is going!). This girl, Dorothy. Was her last name Gale?

Leomon: Uh, no, actually, it was "Fairchild", why?

Rika: It's nothing.

Henry: Rika-

Leomon: No, it is alright. Anyway, let us continue. She was not from a time period with much in the ways of technology. She had no idea what a "Computer" was or even heard of such a thing. In her time they hadn't even invented the Television yet! Yet here she was, in our Digital World. She thought she was in a "Magical World", charming if you ask me.

Guilmon: Weren't you surprised to see a human?

Leomon: Oh, of course. It was quite a strange sight for a human girl to suddenly fall into our midst. But we decided that from that day forward we would help her get home no matter what! Oh, we had such fun! Playing games-

The scenes shows them playing hide and seek, doing carwheels, braiding each others hair(except for Andromon of course. Leomon's smile suddenly fades.

Leomon: She was a sick girl.

She is shown sitting up in a sleeping bag in a tent, coughing horribly.

Leomon: But just the same she was always smiling. She was like a radiant light in our lives. We didn't always get along, in fact, me and Andromon frequently argued. Mostly because of his insistence that he-

Henry: You said you were going to "Get back to him".

Rika: Henry-

She jabs back at him.

Leomon: Oh, yes. Actually, I was just getting to that. You see, he had a curious problem. Despite all evidence to the contrary, he had decided that he was just a machine, that he had no feelings at all. But that little girl, she open his heart and he knew then, he loved her. We all did. The scene shows her grip his fingers with her little hand, and he gently squeezes it. The four form a circle, slowly walking sideways in a circular motion. Dorothy is shown smiling, innocent as can be. She made us each promise...

A curious sight is shown. A man, a stranger, is watching them from the distance. He appears to be cataloging everything they are doing. Even making drawings. Because of the uniqueness of the area, he can hear some of what they are saying, the words being "Carried by the wind". In fact, he could not make out her last name, but become excited upon feeling a strong wind. Certain things had to be guessed or were miss heard, but this was inevitable. For example, Dorothy had a dog at home, a Bloodhound named Tonto. This writer had accidently named him Toto. He could make out that she was talking about a dog, because she was on all fours, barking while she explained to her friends.

Nohemon: Go on, continue. Say it.

Leomon: (Exhale) That no matter what happens, that we would continue to be friends. That we would try to get along. Something at which I have failed. You said I was afraid to face Andromon, you were right. But it is not out of fear of dying. Well, that is part of it, but... what scares me more, is the possiblity that I cannot save him. That he is forever lost to me.

Takato: Innocent Digimon are dying because of it.

Leomon: I-I know.

Rika: What happened for him to change so much.

Leomon: For that, I must continue my the story. Like I said, we wanted to help Dorothy find a way home. But we didn't know how we would do that. So we went out in search of the wisest one we know, he lived in the Emerald Hills. We each entered the tent, and were told that we were, each of us, her partners and she was out Digi-Destined. She was brought to our world to defeat the Witchmon that had been plaguing the Server. One by one we began to realize that even the wise Emerald Gostumon(This elicits a reponse from the peanut gallery) could not send her home. She was understandably crestfallen, at first. She cried for several minutes before making up her mind. She decided that we were her family now. This made us all very happy.

In the next scene, the four of them reach a little safehaven just NorthWest of the Emerald Gostumon. They had followed several golden stones. At the end of the path there is a house overseen by two Digimon, a Pixiemon and a Pflaumon. In front of which are several cabbages, from which baby Digimon are born! In the light, these cabbages glow bright as any jewel. The mysterious man once again sits nearby, drawing and writing based on what he sees and hears. Seeing the little Digimon, he takes some creative liberties. Probably to make it more "palatable". Seeing the blue-green mountains in the distance, he draws little people living in blue dome shaped houses. That is when the Green skinned Witchmon appears, wearing silver shoes on her feet.

Leomon: That is when the Witchmon appeared.

Rika: With Green skin?

He nods. The Tamers understand instantly.

Leomon: She harrassed us and the poor little Digimon by throwing fireballs at us, and choking us with black smoke. She had somehow found out about the prophecy. The two caretakers had tried their best using their magic. The house came alive and stood up.

Guilmon: A house stood up?

He says tilting his head.

Leomon: Well, not really, it was a "Housemon". They aren't alive, but can be manipulated by others. However, the Witchmon was stronger and rend control from them . We were no match for her and her cruelty.

They are all shown on the ground before the witch and the Housemon. Two flying monkey digimon grab Dorothy by the arms and start to fly of with her. Angered, he gets to his feet, breaking the one leg of the house with his "Fist of the Beast King". The house falls in such a way that it crushes the Witchmon's feet and she howls in pain. Nohemon and Andromon both fight off the monkey's, Andromon catches Dorothy as she falls.

Leomon: Dorothy, always a good person, was concerned for the Witchmon and tried to help her. She was swatted away, and she managed to fly away on her broom. The silver slippers were left behind.

The girl looks at her now broken shoes. They had walked a long way, and they needed replacing.

Leomon: We all tried to give her the shoes, but she refused to take them. Telling us "That they were not hers. That is it wrong to steal, even if it is from a bad person". However, she did eventually accept them. You see, Pflaumon was the original owner of the shoes, the Witchmon had stolen them! And she wanted Dorothy to have them.

The scene is very different now. It is raining and they stand before an enormous metal factory which the Witchmon is using as her castle.

Renamon: You sound very brave.

He shakes his head.

Leomon: Dorothy was my strength. She had this power, to make even a coward like me brave enough to stand up and fight. Even then, she begged her to stop hurting Digimon. To live in peace with them.

Leomon has Digivolved to SaberLeomon, yellow light surrounds him as he prepares to charge the Witch.

Leomon: But she just laughed.

She simply laughs from her spot high above them, floating on her broom. She tries to make a fireball, but that is when Andromon takes a bucket of water and tosses it. The fireball snuffs out before it can form, and the bucket falls on her head. By the time she throws it off, she has no time to react. Nohemon's red bird pecks out her one eye. As she screams in pain, SaberLeomon hits her full force. Somehow managing to avoid death, she turns tail, leaving the land in peace. She vowed that she would return with her sister. That we would all pay. We had gained our freedom.

Terriermon: Don't stop there, what happenede next?!

Leomon and Nohemon give one another glances.

Leomon: Then... she left us. She just, disappeared.

Guilmon: Did she go home?

Leomon: No, she went on "Another journey".

It is shown as a poster for a movie. A Gigasmon has his back to the new heroes, looking over his shoulder balefully. He has a yellow Arukenimon facing the heroes to his left. And on the left Grumblemon and Rebellimon for minions. This clearly shows the movie sequel(Combination of the second and Third books). Her partners are a Guardromon, a Tuskmon, and a NoblePumpkinmon.