Hey guys. I'm back with another chapter. I apologize for once again going on a hiatus. I had hoped that I'd come up with something months ago, but sadly another combination of writers block and IRL activities got the better of me yet again. I haven't forgotten this story, though. I just needed some inspiration to restart my creative engines. Luckily, though, some new Digimon that have recently been announced have given me such inspiration, one of which you'll see in this chapter. I just hope that this new story makes up for the months of inactivity away from this story.
Last time we saw of Nepgear and Hagurumon, they had found themselves in a volcanic landscape within the Digital World. With no sign of any of their friends anywhere and with no way of contacting them, they decided to try and find a supposed village, where they may find some clues are to their whereabouts and hopefully find a way to locate their friends. However, they're not prepared for what's about to happen next.
I would say what it is, but that would be spoiling. Therefore, I shall leave the reading to you. I hope you enjoy!
Disclaimer: I do not own Digimon or Hyperdimension Neptunia. Both franchises belong to their respective companies.
Chapter 35: Resistance
Somewhere in a volcanic landscape, Nepgear and Hagurumon had been wandering around their surroundings, surveying the sights and sounds, looking for any signs of life. From what the gear Digimon had told his partner, there was supposed to be a town near a large volcano where many fire-type Digimon reside in. So far, the pair could find nothing but barren land, with little to no signs of any living creatures anywhere.
Few plant life was found in the region, as the land was littered with charred remains of trees and rocks covered in black ashes. Although the scenery was foreboding, the lilac haired Candidate didn't seem to mind. In fact, she was actually quite fascinated by the environment that they were in. She knew that the Digital World would have places and lands similar to what Gameindustri had in terms of geological wonders, but she never knew what it would be like. Although she could probably do without the heat.
So far it had been a few hours since they traveled. The Planeptune CPU Candidate could feel the hot air blow against her face as the wind howled softly. She couldn't help but feel a bit fatigued from the heat in the area. Her partner Digimon noticed this and wondered if she was alright. He knew that she could easily make it through if had her CPU powers in the Digital World. But without any of the people's faith, she was just as vulnerable as any ordinary human. At last, the lilac haired girl spoke up.
"Phew... It sure is hot out here", she said.
"The heat from the volcano must be traveling downwind. If it becomes unbearable, we may have to stop and rest for a while", stated Hagurumon.
"You're probably right. We wouldn't want to get a heat stroke out here", Nepgear said.
"I am mostly made of metal, so the heat won't affect me much. However, without your powers as a CPU, you may not last long in this habitat", the gear Digimon pointed out.
"Oh, right. I forgot about that. Ehehe...", the lilac haired girl said.
As they pressed forward, Nepgear thought more about her own human limitations.
"But if I didn't have such weaknesses to radical temperatures like you do, I could possibly outlast anything", she said. "Oh! Maybe I can create a super robot of sorts based upon my image, and then transfer my consciousness into it, thus eliminating the need for hunger, perfect health, rest, and many other limitations of the human body! It'll be just like one of those characters from those super robot and mecha anime shows I've seen. It would be the perfect melding of man and machine, as one awesome force!"
Hagurumon sweat dropped as his partner rambled on about one of her fantasies. It amazed and worried him at the same time that someone could come up with such complex and ludicrous ideas such as what Nepgear was describing. It was baffling to him, to say the least. He could only hope that his friend doesn't actually attempt to make such fantasies a reality, as he liked her just the way she is now., Still, he couldn't help but worry for her safety.
They ventured forth, heading for the foot of a huge volcano in the distance. A few miles away, they could see something shining from far away. From what the pair could make out, it seemed like a long wall of metal. To them, it just may be the town that Hagurumon had mentioned earlier.
"Do you see that? That could be the town we're looking for" said Nepgear.
"If it is, then we are in luck. We'll be able to rest and recuperate, as well as ask around for any information about our friends", the gear Digimon stated.
"Okay. Let's hurry on over and see if anyone knows anything", the lilac haired girl said excitedly.
But as they marched on, however, they saw something else approaching in the distance. There were small objects, and it was difficult to make out what they were. When the objects, however, the pair stopped in their place. There were three fireballs heading their way. They looked like the had blue eyes, stitched mouths and tiny limbs. Nepgear was surprised by their appearance.
"Are those Digimon?", the Candidate pondered aloud.
"It would seem so. They look like they're in the hurry, though", said Hagurumon.
As the flying fireballs got closer, the lilac haired girl could see that her partner was right. Using her Digivice, she scanned the living fireballs as they got closer. A holographic image appeared out of her device.
"DemiMeramon. They're In-Training Digimon. Their flames aren't very hot, but aren't very approachable either due to their heat", Nepgear said aloud.
"From the way they're moving, they look like they're running away from something", Hagurumon thought.
As he wondered what was going on, the Planeptune Candidate waved out to them, hoping to get their attention.
"Hello out there! Are you Digimon by any chance?", she called out. "We're looking for-"
"Turn back, run away! Don't come near! Save yourselves!", the living fireball Digimons exclaimed.
The DemiMeramons ran past both Nepgear and Hagurumon in haste, not even stopping for a second. They moved further away in the other direction before the pair could say anything else to them. Judging by their reactions, they could conclude that something had scared them to the point that they were running away from something. But just what were they running away from?
"Just what's gotten into them? Something doesn't feel right", said Nepgear.
"Alert! My sensors detect hostile life forms approaching!", the gear Digimon sounded off.
The Planeptune CPU suddenly tensed up, now realizing why the living fireballs were running away. Coming in from the distance, a group of creatures outfitted in what seemed to be like military uniforms were approaching in their direction. Recognizing their gear and markings, the pair could see that they were Commandramons. There was no doubt about it: It was the D-Brigade!
"The D-Brigade! What the goodness are they doing here?", Nepgear said.
When the group of military Digimon got within sight of the pair, they were surprised to see them.
"A human and a Digimon? We weren't notified about anyone like that around here", one Commandramon said.
"Do you think they're helping the escaping Digimons?", another Commandramon asked.
"You fools! That human must be one of the CPUs! Our leader warned us about them", their squad leader said.
Both Nepgear and Hagurumon just stood there in shock, unable to do anything. Then they noticed that one of the military Digimon stood out amongst the squad. His body looked like that of the Commandramon soldiers, but he was three times bigger than that of his comrades, and he was more heavily equipped, ranging from a heavy vest to a red helmet with a black snout and single horn on the front. He was also holding what appeared to be a grenade launcher in his right arm, complete with some reserve ammo on the back of his vest. He also had a riot shield that resembled that of the D-Brigade's symbol.
From what they could gather, it was most likely that he was the captain of the squad, judging by his appearance. Quickly scanning him, they could see that he was another member of the D-Brigade.
"Hi-Commandramon! A Champion Digimon of the D-Brigade. He leads squads of Commandramon out on the front lines and can act as a wall for his troops with his riot shield", said Nepgear.
Before the two can do anything else, the squad of Digimon soldiers quickly approached and surrounded the pair, their weapons drawn and aimed at their direction, causing both Nepgear and Hagurumon to raise their limbs in the air. Of course, in the Digimon partner's case, he raised his gears in the air. Hi-Commandramon slowly approached the pair, his size intimidating them a bit.
"You have trespassed in D-Brigade territory, CPU. Your involvement in aiding escapee Digimon will not go unpunished", he barked.
"What are you talking about? We just got here. We don't know anything about escapees", the lilac haired girl retorted, trying to defend herself and her partner.
"Silence, human! Your presence here is all the confirmation we need. We will be taking you in for interrogation, and hold you until our leader comes to pick you up himself. Take them!", Hi-Commandramon said.
Gesturing his squad to surround and capture the pair, they moved in carefully, readying themselves should the pair attempt to resist them. As they got close, Hagurumon got in front of them.
"I warn you! You will not harm my friend! I will not allow it!", he shouted.
"Know your place, human sympathizer!", said one of the Commandramons.
He then butted the gear Digimon with the back of his rifle, knocking him down to the ground hard.
"Hagurumon!", Nepgear exclaimed worriedly.
She moved to his aid, but then the military Digimon pointed their weapons at her, causing her to back off immediately.
"Don't even think about it, human. Relieve her of any weapons or devices she has and restrain her", said Hi-Commandramon.
"Yes sir!", said a couple of his subordinates replied.
The lilac haired girl was at a loss for what to do. She wanted to fight back, but she feared for the safety of her partner and herself. If she dared to try and resist, they would most likely destroy the both of them without hesitation. The D-Brigade were organized soldiers, after all, and they were not like any monsters the CPUs had face in their world. They knew exactly what they were doing. Nepgear could only watch as they moved in to capture the pair. As they approached however, at that moment...
"Leave them alone, D-Brigade!", shouted a voice.
Suddenly, everyone turned their heads to where the sound of the voice came from. Looking up in the sky, they could see a figure in the air, his body blotted out by the suns rays. Before they could make out who or what it was, it geared up one of its limbs, charging up an attack.
"Fire Rocket!", the figure exclaimed.
He them blasts a barrage of fireballs from his limb, aimed directly at the Commandramons. Seeing the attack coming, the the squad leader went wide eyed.
"Move away, now!", he exclaimed.
Both Hi-Commandramon and the rest of the military Digimon scatter in different directions, trying to avoid the rain of fire coming down upon them. Most of them escaped, but a few were burned by the flames. The mysterious figure soon landed on the ground near Nepgear and Hagurumon. They could now see what their savior looked like.
The figure had a blue body with a slim humanoid appearance, a long tail, a white stomach, and long pointy lobes sprouting to the back of his head. He wore three black belts on his arms, and he was clad in red armor with flaming decals on his head, chest, hands, knees, and feet. He had three claws on each limb, and on his helmet was a large blade in the shape of a horn. Hi-Commandramon captain was furious when he laid his eyes upon the armored figure.
"Flamedramon! I should've known you'd be here too, you traitor!", he barked.
"The only traitors I see here are you, D-Brigade. The Digital World is not yours to conquer!", the armored Digimon said.
Both Nepgear and Hagurumon watched in awe as the newcomer stood in between them and the group of Commandramons. Pulling out her Digivice, she scanned the brave being, and a holographic image soon appeared on her screen.
"Flamedramon, a Digimon empowered with the Fire of Courage. His Fire Rocket and Knuckle Fire are hot to the touch", she read aloud.
The armored Digimon stared down the group of military Digimon, not even blinking or turning his gaze away from them. They soon charged at him, attempting to take him down. The Commandramons started firing their weapons, but Flamedramon quickly surrounded his body in flames, shielding himself from their attack. Then, as soon as their firepower ceased, he then manipulated the flames around his body and coated them around his armored claws.
"Fire Rocket!", he exclaimed.
He them blasted a series of fast moving fireballs at the soldier Digimons. With no time to react, most of them were hit by the attack, and were obliterated in the process, become nothing but zeros and ones. The surviving grunts, including Hi-Commandramon, realizing their situation, started to back off. The squad leader growled under his breath.
"This isn't over! We'll be back in greater force, and we will hunt down you and your fellow rebels!", he yelled.
He then ordered his remaining grunts to retreat, making a break for the direction of the volcano. While he made a break for it, the squad leader Digimon took one last look at the lilac haired girl and her Digimon partner, getting a good look at their appearance.
"I must inform our leader about this. He'll know just what to do...", he thought.
He then turned back to his fellow soldiers and ran with them back to the direction of their base of operations. As soon as they were far enough away, Flamedramon sighed in relief, standing down from his battle position. Both Nepgear and Hagurumon were amazed by his actions. He was able to hold off the D-Brigade soldiers on his own. If he didn't arrive when he did, the pair would probably have been captured or worse. The pair walked up to their savior, who turned back to look at them.
"That was incredible! I almost thought we were goners", said Nepgear.
"Indeed. We owe you our lives, great warrior of flames", added Hagurumon.
"I'm just doing what I can to help. Are you two alright? No serious injuries?", Flamedramon inquired.
"We're alright, thanks to you", the Planeptune CPU replied.
"That's good... Now, you need to leave immediately", said the armored Digimon said. "This is no place for you to be in."
"What? But we just got here", said Nepgear.
"And if the D-Brigade are here, then they must be stopped", added the gear Digimon.
"That's one fight you do NOT want. Not even I can take them all on", said Flamedramon.
"But that's exactly why we came to the Digital World. We have to put a stop to them, before they invade my world", stated Nepgear.
"Your world?", Flamedramon repeated.
"Correct", said Hagurumon. "They plan to conquer my partner's world, and they will stop at nothing to do so. We've been fighting them since their first failed attempt."
Flamedramon looked at them for a moment as he pondered on what to do. Now that he had thought about it, it seemed to him that they knew a little about the D-Brigade, and the fact that there was a human in the Digital World puzzled him even more. Still, if there was a human present, then there had to be a reason behind their involvement. At last, he spoke up again.
"Come with me. We have a lot to discuss", he said.
The armored Digimon then started walking to another direction, urging the pair to follow him. They nodded and went behind him.
"So, where are we going?", Nepgear asked.
"To the hideout. We'll talk more there. If you're here, human, then you and your friend just might be able to help us after all", said Flamedramon.
Both the CPU Candidate and her partner looked at each other, wondering what they had got themselves involved in. Whatever the reason, they could only hope that they don't run into more trouble along the way.
At the foot of the volcano, a small town made of metal and rock stood firm and steady. But within its wall, one could see that all was not well. Flags adorning the symbol of the D-Brigade were seen on some of the buildings, signifying that the town was under their control. Some Commandramon soldiers stood guard at some of the buildings, while many more patrolled random areas of the town. Some areas of importance were heavily guarded with troops, with even some Tankmons ready for action at a moments notice.
In the town square, a large building unlike any other stood out amongst the others. It was the HQ for the D-Brigade in the area, and it served as the nerve center for all operations in the region. Inside, the D-Brigade soldiers moved like clockwork, preparing their gear, planning battle strategies, and other minor operations.
At the top of the building was a giant observation deck, where more Commandramon soldiers were stationed, as well as one more individual. It was a huge creature with an orange muscular body, and along tail extending from his midsection, with yellow scales on the underside. On his chest were a pair of tattoos - one was a skull mark, and the other was a sort of gear. His back had a pair of giant purple wings, which looked like they had stitches in a few spots, and his head sported a metal helmet with two horns that were pointing backwards. He had indigo colored hair on the back of his head, and on his arms were a pair of cyborg-like limbs, each having three metal claws. The limbs had a few cables connecting them to the flesh on his actual arms.
The cyborg dragon's yellow eyes gazed upon the town and landscape, peering down on anything and everything that was in sight. He was like a watch dog, not letting even the smallest occurrence go unnoticed. Just then, the sound of a doorway opening and closing caught his attention. Turning his gaze away from the windows, he saw an injured Hi-Commandramon coming towards him. As soon as the military Digimon was right in front of his superior, he saluted to him.
"Megadramon, sir", said the captain.
"Report", the cyborg dragon Digimon snarled.
"We have... lost the escapee DemiMeramons. Some of my men have also been lost...", Hi-Commandramon stated.
Megadramon growled when he heard this. Suddenly, he wrapped his tail around the military Digimon, crushing his body like a giant snake. He then raised the captain up to his face.
"How could you have so much trouble catching such weak Digimon? I ought to crush you for your incompetence!", Megadramon said angrily.
"I-It was Flamedramon, s-sir! He g-got in our way! He's t-the one who g-gave us t-trouble!", Hi-Commandramon said as he struggled to breath.
"I do not accept excuses! Trouble would've been facing him as a gladiator! But it seems even you are too weak to do just that", said the cyborg dragon Digimon.
He then started to squeeze his tail, ready to crush the life out of his subordinate, when the military Digimon started to speak up again.
"T-There was another! I-It was a-a h-human! A human with a D-Digimon!", he spat out.
Hearing this, Megadramon stopped his stranglehold on the Hi-Commandramon captain, pausing for a few seconds. The word "human" intrigued him. After a few seconds, he released the captain, allowing him to catch his breath. Though the heavily armed Digimon was thankful that his life was spared, he now feared what his leader had to say.
"A human, you say?", the cyborg dragon Digimon inquired.
"Y-Yes sir...", Hi-Commandramon coughed before continuing. "We had them surrounded. We were about to take them into custody. That's when Flamedramon showed up and attacked us."
"I see. No doubt that this human and the Digimon that was with them is one of these 'CPUs' that our master Mr. A. has warned us about", Megadramon deduced.
He then turned his gaze back towards the town, then to the land beyond it. He knew that if was one CPU with a Digimon around, then there had to be more somewhere else. And if that was the case, then the CPU in question was now helping the region's local resistance fighters.
"If that human is a CPU, then we cannot allow such a threat to exist", the cyborg dragon Digimon continued. "It is imperative that we locate the rebel hideout immediately, and wipe out both the CPU and the resistance once and for all."
"We're already working on it, sir", said the Hi-Commandramon captain. "We received several Gizumon drones a few days ago. I've sent them to the last known area that we encountered Flamedramon and the human. With any luck, they'll find out where they've gone to."
"Excellent. They couldn't have gotten far yet. Once they find them and their base, we will send a small battalion to destroy their hideout", said Megadramon.
"If I may make a request, sir", the military Digimon spoke up. "To make up for my previous blunder, I will lead the charge-"
"-So you can fail me again?", Megadramon hissed. "No. I will lead the charge, while you follow my command. I will not risk another mishap because of you. Do you understand me?"
The heavily armed Digimon gulped. Though he wanted to make up for his embarrassment for retreating earlier, he knew better than to argue with his leader.
"Y-Yes sir...", he said.
"Good", said the cyborg dragon Digimon. "Now go ready the troops. We will depart once we find the rebels hideout. Dismissed."
Hi-Commandramon nodded before turning to leave the room, while Megadramon turned his gaze back towards the outskirts of the town once more. A sinister grin formed on his face as he imagined the terrified looks on the resistance fighters faces as he and his army tramples over the smoldering ruins of their base.
"Soon victory will belong to us, and Flamedramon's fire will finally be extinguished forever. For the glory of the D-Brigade", he thought.
Meanwhile, at the other side of the volcano, both Nepgear and Hagurumon had continued to follow Flamedramon as they made their way to the supposed hideout. It had been a few hours since they met the armored Digimon. It was now nearing nightfall, and the heat created by the digital sun was starting to fade a little. While they had made their way towards their inevitable destination, both the CPU Candidate and the gear Digimon explained to their guide a little about their situation and how they had arrived to the Digital World. To say that Flamedramon was a little curious was quite accurate. He would ask more about them when they arrive at the hideout.
After a few more minutes of walking, they reach what appeared to be a cave entrance on the hillside of the volcano. The entrance was huge, about the size of three ancient dragons stacked on top of one another. To the pair, it looked as though it was abandoned. Flamedramon moved towards it, gesturing them to follow him inside. Nepgear and Hagurumon just looked at each other before the lilac haired girl simply shrugged her shoulders and went behind the armored Digimon, with the gear Digimon tailing behind her shortly after.
Entering the cave, they could see that the inside did not look like a natural formation, as if it was carved by someone or something. And much like the entrance, the inside was also large and spacious, leaving enough room for a large crowd to move in and out of. Nepgear and her Digimon partner wondered why a hideout needs so much space in the first place. Soon they could see a light up ahead. It wasn't long until they had reached the source of the light. It was a large chamber filled with equipment and many other Digimon.
They could see all kinds of equipment strewn about in the chamber, ranging from tools and crates to even a console that seemed to be a sort of radio. The chamber itself was lit with torches and candles, creating enough light to see inside.
"Wow! It's a real rebel hideout. Its like something I always imagined seeing in a book I borrowed from Uni once", Nepgear commented.
"I must say, though, that this place does seem a little crude", added Hagurumon.
"It's not much, but we try to call it our home away from home", said Flamedramon.
As the lilac haired girl and gear Digimon looked around, some of the Digimon gave them some strange looks, as if they were judging the pair. Some of the Digimon looked like living candle with red eyes on their waxy faces, and an endlessly burning flame on top of their heads that also had a face on it with blue eyes. Scanning them with her Digivice, Nepgear read their description on a holographic image.
"Candlemon, a flame Digimon whose flame is always lit. Rookie level", she said.
Next, they saw what appeared to be the same living fireballs hovering around each other. The Planetune CPU recognized what they were.
"Those are the DemiMeramon we seen earlier,", Nepgear said.
"Yes. I managed to free them from the D-Brigade before I bumped into you two", said Flamedramon.
The fireball Digimon then noticed the armored Digimon and floated over towards him, happily laughing as they swirled around their savior. He smiled at their delight, knowing that they were now in good hands. The very sight of this made both Nepgear and Hagurumon smile as well. To these Digimon, Flamedramon was like a hero working to save lives. The pair hoped that one day they could be heroes just like him when they finally stop the D-Brigade. For now, they felt obligated to help him and the other Digimon here in any way they could.
As the pair continued to look around, Flamedramon saw someone else approaching the group from the far end of the chamber. It looked like a humanoid dressed in red and orange, adorned with flame markings that resembled the ones on Flamedramon's armor. On his head was a hat resembling that of a wizard's hat, with a flaming top and a pair of goggles. He also had a grey face and grey eyes, a stitched mouth, and brown hair underneath his hat. He had two yellow rings on his arms, three black belts wrapped around his waist, a pair of red gloves on his hands, and a pair of red boots on his feet. On both sides of his waist, it looked like he had two large match sticks on either side, one with a red head and the other blue.
Nepgear and Hagurumon soon saw the individual coming and noticed a scowl forming on his face. He returned their gaze with one of his own before turning his attention back to the armored Digimon. Noticing the look of displeasure on his comrade's face, Flamedramon tried to temper his friend's outrage.
"Flamedramon! You brought outsiders to our hideout? What is wrong with you?!", he exclaimed.
"Sorry, FlameWizardmon. But there's a good reason why they're here", the armored Digimon replied calmly.
"I don't care if they came from the other side of the Digital World", said the fire mage Digimon. "For all we know, the D-Brigade could've followed them to our hideout."
"Relax. I made sure we didn't have eyes on us. And I'm sure if you'd hear them out, you'll understand why I brought them here", Flamedramon said, defending the pair.
FlameWizardmon just scoffed, unsure of what to say to his ally. He then sighed heavily before turning his eyes back to the pair.
"Well, since you're here, we might as well introduce ourselves. You first?", he asked.
"Of course. I'm Nepgear, the CPU Candidate of Planeptune. It's nice to meet you", said the lilac haired girl, bowing her head with respect.
"And I'm Hagurumon, her Digimon partner. A pleasure to meet your acquaintance", the gear Digimon added.
"Planeptune? I've never heard of that land", said the fire mage Digimon. "And did you say candidate? I think the last thing we need right now is a politician getting in our affairs."
"Actually, I'm a Goddess from my world. And Planeptune is the name of my home in my dimension", Nepgear corrected.
FlameWizardmon raised an eyebrow in confusion before turning his attention to Flamedramon, who just shrugged his shoulders in response. He could tell that he was in for some strange circumstances.
"Yeah, you're going to have to run that by me later. At any rate, though, I'm FlameWizardmon. And you already know Flamedramon", the fire mage Digimon said.
After they had introduced themselves, Nepgear took another look around the chamber, catching the attention of both FlameWizardmon and Flamedramon, before speaking up again.
"So what's going on here? Why is the D-Brigade here in a place as hot as a volcano?", she inquired.
"I believe I can answer your questions, young ones", echoed a voice from afar.
Suddenly the cavern started to shake a little, and loud stomping noises echoed off the walls. Out of the darkness peered a giant creature of incredible size, shocking both Nepgear and Hagurumon. It had a large green face with red frills and grey spikey hair growing on the back of its head. It had a long neck and stood on all fours, and had a sizable tail. What made it unique, though, was that its entire body, minus the head, looked like an actual living volcano in the shape of a sort of dinosaur, complete with what seemed like glowing veins of hot lava. Its back even had what looked like miniature volcanos.
As soon as the newcomer made his presence known, every Digimon in the chamber kneeled down in front of the mighty creature. All except for Nepgear and Hagurumon, who were still shocked by his appearance. FlameWizardmon and Flamedramon saw this and whispered to them.
"What are you doing? Bow you two", said the armored Digimon quietly.
"Yeah, show some respect", added the fire mage Digimon.
"It is alright, you two. They do not understand our customs yet", the volcanic monster said, who was able to overhear them.
The lilac haired girl and her Digimon partner just stared nervously at the creature. He seemed intelligent, but his size and appearance was quite intimidating to them. However he seemed to be a gentle giant, as he was careful not to stomp too loudly or hard, and his voice was like that of a wise old man. The pair eventually managed to snap out of their nervousness and bowed their heads to the monster.
"G-Greetings, Mister...?", said Nepgear, unsure of who to call the creature in front of them.
"I am Volcdramon. I wish I could welcome you to our land, but unfortunately it is now under new management, as you have seen", said the volcanic Digimon.
"Volcdramon is as ancient as the land of Magma Plains itself. Please, do show the utmost respect", said Flamedramon.
"Ah, of course. I'm sorry if we offended you in any way", said Nepgear politely, bowing her head again.
"As am I. We do not mean any disrespect whatsoever", said Hagurumon, bowing his head as well.
"It is quite alright, young ones. No harm was done", said Volcdramon.
Squinting his eyes, he slowly lowered his head to the pair and started examining them. He never seen a human like Nepgear before, and her Digimon partner was not like of the other locals seen in Magma Plains. After he was finished examining the pair, he raised his head back up.
"Judging by your appearance, I say you really are from another world, human", he said.
"Yes, that's right. I'm from another world called Gameindustri", Nepgear replied.
"And the Digimon with you. Is he your friend?", Volcdramon inquired.
"He's more than that. He's also my partner. Take a look", the lilac haired Candidate said.
Reaching into her pocket, she pulled out her Digivice, as a way to show proof of her partnership with Hagurumon. Both Flamedramon and FlameWizardmon were surprised by this. They had never seen such a device before. Lowering his head again, Volcdramon examined her device. His eyes widened before he raised his head again.
"So it is true, then. There are humans who have allied themselves with Digimon", said Volcdramon.
"That's right", said Hagurumon. "She once helped me when I was in trouble, and I helped her in return. We've become inseparable ever since."
"I see. Now things are starting to make a little sense", said Flamedramon.
"What do you mean?", FlameWizardmon asked his comrade.
"When the D-Brigade had surrounded them when I saved them, they seemed to know what that human was", said the armored Digimon.
"Well if you ask me, I say they're spies sent by the D-Brigade. For all we know, the attack could've been staged", said the fire mage Digimon.
Volcdramon pondered for a moment. Just who was this human? Why was she partnered with a Digimon? And what connection did she have with the D-Brigade? As he was thinking, FlameWizardmon continued on his rant.
"And just look at her Digimon. He seems the most suspicious, too. I know there are others like him in the D-Brigade. I say we keep them here and interrogate them, make them spill the beans on the D-Brigade's secrets. And while we're at it-"
He was then quickly interrupted by a loud stomp made by Volcdramon, who angrily stared at the fire mage Digimon, causing everyone to jump in surprise.
"Enough! We will not condemn them just because they are outsiders from another land. Do you understand?", he scolded, making his point firmly clear to his comrade.
FlameWizardmon looked up at him in shock before bowing his head in shame.
"Yes, of course... I apologize for my behavior immensely, great leader", he said profusely.
Volcdramon then sighed, understanding his ally's plight. He then turned back to both Nepgear and Hagurumon apologetically.
"Please, do forgive his brash behavior. We've been fighting the D-Brigade for a long time, and friends and allies are hard to come by these days", he said.
"I can understand...", said Nepgear sorrowfully.
"Why don't we hear them out? Let them explain their story to us all", said the volcanic Digimon.
Everyone then gathered around the pair, eager to hear the pair's tales and how they came to be in their hideout.
Nightfall had started to arrive in the Magma Plains. And though there was little activity during this time, one creature was stirring, sent on a mission of great importance.
Near the foot of the volcano, a purple sphere with blade-like prongs, green cables, a big yellow eye sensor and small red eye was floating its way through the land in search of its target. The Gizumon drone was searching for any sign of the rebel Digimons. It had picked up the trail that Flamedramon and his two new allies had left behind. Although that this was a volcanic landscape, the sophisticated sensors the drone was outfitted with allowed it to pick up not just the tracks they left behind on their trek, but also the faint heat signatures that were left behind.
The Gizumon drone was nearing the base of the volcano when its sensor picked up something up ahead. There was an unnatural formation in the shape of a large entrance. Its yellow eye scanned the entrance, then the trail that it was following. Seeing that the trail lead into the large hole, the Gizumon drone concluded that this was where Flamedramon had went to, and quite possibly was the location of the rebel hideout. It beeped and whirred it approached the entrance to the hideout.
"[EXECUTE DATALOG PROTOCALS. BEGINING ESPIONAUGE SUBROUTINES. SEARCHING FOR ENEMY TARGETS.]", the Gizumon drone beeped internally.
Zooming in with it's yellow eye sensor, it checked for any sign of rebel Digimon activity. Seeing that the coast was clear, it began to start recording its findings so that it may transmit both its discovery of the rebel base and its coordinates back to the D-Brigade's headquarters. The Gizumon drone then carefully traversed its way inside the entrance, where it would then look for where the rebel Digimon were gathered...
Nepgear and Hagurumon explained how the Planeptune CPU Candidate was from another world called Gameindustri, where she and her friends acted as Goddesses of their respective lands, protecting their their people and their world from various threats. She went on to explain how Digimon had started appearing in their world, how she and Hagurumon had met, and how the D-Brigade had planned to invade their world.
As everyone listened on, they began to understand why the two were here, and how the D-Brigade seemed to know them. Only when they heard that the D-Brigade planned to invade her world did they realize the depth of their situation. It even angered FlameWizardmon a bit, too. It was bad enough that their enemy wanted to conquer the Digital World, but now they were seeking other worlds to rule? It infuriated him just thinking about it. Flamedramon and Volcdramon, on the other hand, kept a more level head.
"I get it now. That's why they were after you before", said the armored Digimon.
"Yes. We had to enter the Digital World so we could stop them", Nepgear continued. "But the moment we entered this world, we all became separated."
"And now we're on the lookout for any sign of our comrades. We hope to find them soon, and then figure out how we can stop the D-Brigade", said Hagurumon.
"I see", said Volcdramon understandingly. "Unfortunately, we do not know of anyone else who may have seen your friends."
"Oh...", the lilac haired Candidate sighed, disappointed by the news.
"And even if we did, I don't think we could help you look for them ourselves", said FlameWizardmon.
"What do you mean? Is it because of the D-Brigade?", the gear Digimon asked.
Volcdramon nodded at his response, then sighing heavily as he began his tale.
"Our home town of Magma Plains was once a peaceful place. We flourished and traded with many Digimon from all over the Digital World. It was also the reason why the D-Brigade had invaded. For you see, the volcano right next to our town was home to a vast amount of resources and minerals, which made our trade routes very popular for anyone who visited our land. And those very same resources made us a large target for the D-Brigade to exploit."
"What kind of minerals were they after?", the CPU Candidate asked curiously.
"Chrome Digizoit, of course. Its a material that can be crafted into almost anything", FlameWizardmon explained.
"Yes", Volcdramon continued. "We had mined for Chrome Digizoit and used to convert it into Chrome Digizoid, a great metal that can be used for anything any Digimon wanted. We used it to create our homes, use as tools, and even offered it for trade with other Digimon. When the D-Brigade found out about our rich reasources, however, they decided to enact a hostile takeover, taking over our home and capturing our people. Now they use our resources to fuel and expand their war machine, strengthening their armies more and more. To make matters worse, they're even forcing our people to mine for them."
Nepgear and Hagurumon were both horrified and outraged by this information. It was one thing to take over a town by force, but it was another to use the town's people for their own exploits. It was quite horrible to think about.
"How awful...", said Nepgear sadly.
"It's an unforgivable act of disgrace. All because the D-Brigade consider themselves as superior to all other life forms in the Digital World", said FlameWizardmon.
"However, some of us just couldn't stand by and let the D-Brigade push us around. That's why we began fighting for our freedom", added Flamedramon.
"We have been struggling to free our land ever since", Volcdramon continued. "Though we try many times to stop the invaders, their strength keeps growing, and our numbers dwindle. There are only a handful of us rebels left now, and we fear for the safety of our people still trapped within our captive home. And by this point, most of us have even started to lose hope..."
The CPU Candidate and her Digimon partner soon began to realize the gravity of the rebels situation. Their home had been taken away from them, and they had since been fighting a losing battle against the D-Brigade for a long time. And it seemed to them that it would only be a matter of time until they would eventually become overwhelmed. This hit hard on Nepgear especially. It made her think of the struggles she and her friends had with the criminal organization ASIC from long ago.
"I can understand what you're all going through", she said, catching the attention of the other Digimon. "When my sister and the other CPUs were captured for three years by an evil organization, I was so worried for such a long time. But I never gave up the fight. I kept going until me and my friends saved them all."
This perked up the other Digimon, who were being moved by her words.
"No matter how grim things looked, we never stopped fighting for a better future", the CPU Candidate continued. "As long as we had something to fight for, me and my friends would continue to fight back against this evil organization until they were eventually no more. You have a home and people to fight for, too. That's why you mustn't give up either!"
The Digimon in the cavern whispered and murmured to each other, inspired by the CPU Candidate's words. They knew that she was right. As long as the D-Brigade held their home and their people hostage, they would never surrender until the day that they are all free. Even FlameWizardmon, who was initially skeptical of the pair, couldn't help but be impressed by the lilac haired girl's speech. And Flamedramon just smiled.
"Maybe she can help us after all", he thought.
"Your words are truly admirable, young one", said Volcdramon. "Still, how will we be able to save our home and our people?"
"All we need is a plan of action to work with", said Nepgear. "And then..."
Suddenly, they heard a crash inside the cave. Everyone turned to see where the noise came from. They saw something moving behind a stack of crates. Flamedramon was quick to step forward and approach.
"Who's there? Show yourself!", he demanded.
Then, the unknown entity jumped out from behind the crates. It looked like a purple sphere with one yellow eye and a smaller red eye on its side. Underneath were multiple green cables that equipped with small grabbers, and on its sides were four long blade-like limbs, two on each side, and two cables could be seen connecting the limbs to the mechanical sphere. When Nepgear saw this mechanical creature, she stood there in shock, realizing what it was.
"That's...!", she exclaimed.
"It's a Gizumon!", Hagurumon warned.
Before anyone could even think, it fired multiple lasers from its red eye at the ground in front of everyone, scattering dust and debris into the air. Everyone coughed and hack, keep the dirt away from their eyes and mouths. When the dust settled, they could see the purple sphere moving away towards the cave's exit.
"Don't let it get away!", FlameWizardmon exclaimed.
Both he and Flamedramon gave chase, while Nepgear and Hagurumon looked at each other and nodded, deciding that they would help them chase down the Digimon drone before it can get away. They ran after it out through the cave, managing to catch up to the other two Digimon. They all soon reached the opening, where they saw that the Gizumon was starting to fly away outside, where it was now night time. Everyone feared that if it gets away into the night, they would never be able to find it. But it wasn't going to escape for long. Grabbing both of his match stick staffs, FlameWizardmon started gathering sparks and embers around his weapons. They then started to become small blue balls of flames.
"Magic Ignition!", he exclaimed.
He then started swinging his staffs, launching a series of blue fireballs at the retreating Gizumon. It tried to dodge the incoming flames, but it couldn't evade all of them, as a few fireballs managed to hit it, causing its body to burst into flames. Its systems then started to fail, and the Digimon drone started to lose altitude. After another few seconds trying to regain control, it fell towards the ground, crashing into the dirt with a hard thud.
Everyone went over to the fallen Digimon drone, wanting to see the extent of the damage. Its body was scorched, it had lost a couple of its blade-like limbs, its cables were broken, and its red eye was shattered. Somehow, despite the serious damage, it was still functioning. Suddenly, it started beeping, as if trying to make contact with someone or something. Everyone had a look of horror on their faces.
"That thing knows our location!", FlameWizardmon exclaimed.
"Not for long!", shouted Flamedramon.
He then jumped into the air and shot down straight at the fallen Gizumon. The last thing its yellow eye had recorded to its base was the armored Digimon using his claws to punch a large hole right through its eye and into its body. The Digimon drone started to spark with electricity. Flamedramon pulled his claw out of its body and moved away to a safe distance. Seconds later, the Gizumon exploded, become nothing but zeros and ones. Its data particles then scattered into the wind, vanishing into nothingness. The armored Digimon then sighed.
"Well, that settles that, I guess", said Flamedramon.
"No. Not even close!", said Nepgear all of a sudden.
"What do you mean? If you know something, start talking", said FlameWizardmon.
"From what my friend Uni told me about that thing, the D-Brigade sent one of those Gizumon to our world to hunt down and destroy one of our Digimon friends", the lilac haired girl explained.
"What?!", the other two Digimon shouted at once.
"And that's not all. My sensors detected a transmission sent out from the Gizumon", stated Hagurumon. "I fear it may have made contact with the D-Brigade before we could destroy it."
Both Flamedramon and FlameWizardmon looked at each other in horror, realizing that their situation had now just become critical. If the D-Brigade managed to pick up the transmission sent by the Gizumon, they will no doubt be able to locate the hideout and wipeout everyone there. Once the realization swept over them, the fire mage Digimon then pounded his fists on the ground.
"Damnit! Why did this have to happen now?!", he exclaimed.
"Hey, get a hold of yourself! We didn't know they had such a thing until now", said Flamedramon, trying to calm down his comrade.
"It must have followed our trail somehow, despite us making sure we weren't followed", said Nepgear.
Looking at where the fallen Gizumon exploded, she sighed sadly.
"It's a shame, too. I wish I could have examined it before it exploded. It looked like such a cool robot, too", she commented.
Hearing Nepgear comment about the destroyed Gizumon set off FlameWizardmon's anger even more. He was about to head over to her, but Flamedramon put a claw on his shoulder, stopping his comrade before he did something he would regret.
"Don't even think about it", he said ominously.
"Shut up! You know what's going to happen now! This never would have happened if you didn't bring them to our hideout!", the fire mage Digimon yelled.
"You don't know that! The D-Brigade must have recently got their hands on those things. We couldn't have known. And besides, even if they hadn't come here, something like this was bound to happen one way or another", the armored Digimon stated.
FlameWizardmon just stared angrily at his comrade, then tears started to form in his eyes. He hung his head down, not wanting his comrade to see his face. He knew that his comrade was right, though the fire mage Digimon just couldn't bring himself to admit it. Sighing heavily, Flamedramon patted his ally on the shoulder.
"It's going to be okay. We'll figure something out. I know how you feel right now, but there's no blame to be cast. So please, wipe away your tears and stand strong, my friend", the armored Digimon said, consoling his ally.
The fire mage Digimon sniffed before wiping his face with his glove. He then looked back at his friend and nodded, trying to put on a brave face again. Meanwhile, Nepgear looked on, her own eyes filled with sadness.
"What will we do now? With the base revealed, the D-Brigade will surely...", she thought.
Hagurumon could see the look of worry in her eyes. He patted one of his gear-like limbs on her leg, causing the lilac haired girl to stare down at him.
"Cheer up, my friend. It's like you said. We won't give up", he said.
The CPU Candidate just looked at her partner and smiled, knowing that he was right.
"Let's head back inside and warn the others. We'll need to evacuate as quickly as possible", said Flamedramon.
Both he and the fire mage Digimon went back towards the cave entrance. As they did, the armored Digimon turned back to Nepgear and Hagurumon.
"As for you two... Even though it's not your fight, you can still help us if you want", he said.
"Its not just your fight anymore. It's also become our fight now. And we shall see it through to the end", said the Planeptune Candidate.
The armored Digimon nodded. He knew that if the D-Brigade now aware of their existence in the area, they would stop at nothing until both the CPU Candidate, her Digimon and the new allies they made were destroyed. They all went back inside the cave, where they would discuss the bad news to everyone, and how they would be able to escape before the D-Brigade finds them all.
Back at the town's base of operations, the D-Brigade were scrambling to put together an assault force. They had received an alert from one of the Gizumon drones that they had deployed to search for the location of the rebel hideout. However its signal was lost shortly after it sent a transmission containing a recording of what it had found, as well as the coordinates for the supposed hideout. Assuming that the Gizumon was destroyed by the rebel Digimon, and the fact that there may be a CPU involved, they weren't about to not miss this opportunity.
Outside the main nerve center, a squad of Commandramons and Tankmons were gathered in rows of ten, standing and whispering to each other as they awaited their orders. Then, one of the military Digimon - the Hi-Commandramon who had been attacked by Flamedramon - along with their base leader, Megadramon, appeared in front of them.
"Attention!", said the squad leader.
All of the Digimon snapped to attention at once, gaining an nod of approval from the leading Hi-Commandramon. Then it was Megadramon's turn to speak.
"Tonight marks the beginning of a new and glorious day for the D-Brigade", he said. "The time of the rebels futile efforts to retake their precious home is about to reach its end. We will march on our enemy's doorstep, and crush anyone and anything that dares get in our way. And by morning, Magma Plains will finally see true order! The D-Brigade shall rule over all!"
The troops cheered in excitement as they listened to the propaganda speech. When the cheers settled down, the cyborg dragon Digimon looked back at the Commandramon captain.
"I'll leave the assault to you, captain", he said.
His subordinate nodded before turning his attention to his troops before he commenced with the briefing.
"As you may have heard, we have finally discovered the location of the rebel base in Magma Plains", Hi-Commandramon said. "It's been found situated on the other side of the volcano. One of the Gizumon drones we dispatched has found said base before it was destroyed, and has even sent back a few images that give us an insight on what we'll be dealing with. But the rebels aren't all that we have to face."
He then pulled out a small device from one of the pockets on his military vest, then pressed a button on the side, activating a holographic projection. It showed multiple images of the certain rebel Digimon inside, including what appeared to be a girl with lilac hair and a uniform akin to a sailor outfit.
"This is one of our main threats", the heavily armed Digimon continued. "This is a human girl, one of the supposed CPUs that have entered our world. We have reason to believe that she is in league with the rebels. Our goal is to capture or destroy her, though our great leader, Mr. A., would prefer that we capture her alive. As for anyone else, you are free to use any methods necessary to eliminate the rebels. The only other prisoners we'll be taking are Flamedramon and Volcdramon, who have also been confirmed to be at the hideout."
It was then that Megadramon spoke up again.
"If anyone spots Volcdramon in the area, do not engage him. I will take him myself", he said.
"Once we catch the CPU and that pesky Flamedramon", Hi-Commandramon continued, "we shall make examples out of them, as a warning to any other potential Digimon who even think about starting their own rebellion. They shall bear witness to the cost of resistance."
Megadramon then raised one of his cybernetic limbs into the air and gave out a final sentence of inspiration.
"D-Brigade, rise up and move out!", he roared.
The other Commandramons and Tankmons cheered on, now ready for their confrontation with the enemy. They followed their captain as he marched forward, heading for the direction of the hideout at the volcano. Megadramon followed closely behind while he smiled sinisterly. He could not wait for his final victory against the rebel Digimons, as well as gain the glory of capturing a CPU.
"At long last, Magma Plains will be ours", said the cyborg Digimon.
After they got back to the hideout, Nepgear, Hagurumon, Flamedramon, and FlameWizardmon explained the situation to every Digimon, including Volcdramon. They had warned everyone that the Gizumon drone had reported the position of the hideout. The D-Brigade now knew of their location, and it wouldn't be long until they come marching on their doorstep.
Everyone was now scrambling to evacuate the cavern, collecting whatever items they had or needed. They had no idea how much time they had until the D-Brigade would arrive. The Planetune Candidate and her partner Digimon also did their best to help everyone out. Hagurumon would help do a head count, making sure that no Digimon was either missing or left behind, while Nepgear helped other Digimon load some of their supplies and equipment onto hand-made carts. As she was loading the supplies, Flamedramon walked up to her.
"You don't have to do this, you know. You can leave too at any time. We won't blame you for trying to get away from the D-Brigade", he said.
"If I run now, I wouldn't forgive myself for it. I'll keep everyone safe no matter what happens", said Nepgear.
The armored Digimon couldn't help but admire her determination. She was willing to risk her life to help their cause, despite not being of their world. It was truly remarkable that she would help them all no matter what.
"Reminds me of myself, in a way", Flamedramon thought.
As they all continued to work on getting everyone out, Hagurumon had something on his mind.
"Where will you go? We won't be able to use the main entrance to escape", said the gear Digimon, knowing full well that the D-Brigade will be approaching at their front door.
"Don't worry. We have an emergency exit that leads out of the caverns and away from the volcano, should anything like this happen", the armored Digimon answered.
Just then, Volcdramon approached the group, gently stomping his way over.
"How goes the evacuation?", he inquired.
"Slow and steady, wise one. But I'm not sure we'll be able to evacuate in time before the D-Brigade gets here", said Flamedramon.
This news did not satisfy the volcanic Digimon. He knew that if they are not able to evacuate everyone in time, the future of the people of Magma Plains would be in serious doubt. He hummed for a moment before looking back to the path leading to the main entrance. Nepgear saw the way he was looking at the entrance and wondered what he was thinking about.
"What is It, Volcdramon?", she asked.
Flamedramon noticed this too, and he too wondered what was going on in his leader's mind. He could hazard a guess as to what the volcanic Digimon was thinking of, however. And it was not a thought he would take lightly. Volcdramon then confirmed his fears when he spoke up again.
"Nepgear, Hagurumon, Flamedramon. I want you to continue the evacuation", he said. "I will make sure that your escape goes unhindered."
All three were shocked by what he said. Had he gone mad? There was no way he could take on the entirety of the D-Brigade's forces on his own, even if he was an Ultimate level.
"That's crazy! You can't do it on your own!", Nepgear exclaimed.
"Do not worry", said Volcdramon, trying to rely her fears. "This old Digimon still has some fight left in him."
"I'm sorry, wise one, but I have to agree with Nepgear on this one. There's just too many of them", said Flamedramon.
"I will not let our people put their own lives at risk defending our evacuation. If anything, I'd rather give my own life to make sure everyone else makes it out safely", the volcanic Digimon stated.
"At least let us help you. We cannot let you go through with this alone", said Hagurumon.
"If we can stop the D-Brigade here, there's a good chance that we'll be able to take back your home sooner", added Nepgear.
"Volcdramon, please, let us fight with you!", exclaimed Flamedramon.
The volcanic Digimon suddenly stomped his foot on the ground, quieting the three immediately. He then sighed heavily before speaking up.
"Listen to me, you three", he said calmly. "The future of our people will lie solely with you. Should I perish in battle, I will be deleted knowing that you will all be out of harm's way. I won't have it any other way."
He then turned to his comrade Flamedramon, who could only stare at him with endless worry.
"Flamedramon, my friend. Should I not make it back, I will leave you in charge of the resistance.", he continued.
The armored Digimon's eyes widened in surprise before he nodded in respect. If this is what his wise leader wanted, then he wouldn't get in his way. The volcanic Digimon then turned to both Nepgear and her partner Digimon.
"You two also have an important roll to play as well", he said. "I have a feeling that you'll be able to save not just Magma Plains, but the entire Digital World. But you must survive for that to happen. My hopes - everyone's hopes - lie with you."
Nepgear and Hagurumon just stared at the great Digimon before nodding in acknowledgement. They knew that if they ever hoped to save the Digital World and Gameindustri, they must stay alive in the end, no matter what happens. They had a duty to fulfill, and nothing was going to stop them from seeing their mission through. Just then, they could hear footsteps approaching the group. They could see it was FlameWizardmon, who had a look of horror on his face.
"They're coming! I can see them! The D-Brigade is here!", he exclaimed.
A sense of dread swept over everyone. All except for Volcdramon, who was ready to accept his fate.
"It is time, my friends. I will stall them for as long as I can. May the ancients watch over you all", said the volcanic Digimon.
He then stomped his way out of the chamber towards the path to the entrance, leaving behind the lilac haired girl and the three Digimon. As he went on his way, Nepgear and Hagurumon couldn't help but worry for the great Digimon.
"Please, be careful...", the Planeptune Candidate whispered.
Flamedramon and FlameWizardmon started on their way before the fire mage Digimon turned to see the pair still staring down the path that Volcdramon took.
"Come on, you two! We're leaving!", he shouted.
The CPU Candidate and her Digimon partner looked at each other and nodded, following the other two Digimon down the path to the emergency exit. They could only hope that Volcdramon would stay alive long enough for them to get away.
Meanwhile, outside the hideout, dawn was approaching. As the digital sun slowly crept up from beyond the horizon, illuminating the landscape little by little. The D-Brigade forces marched up to the cave, stopping just mere yards away from the entrance. All of the Commandramons and Tankmons stood at the ready, eager to go into battle with their enemy. Meanwhile, Megadramon smirked at the sight of the entryway.
"This is where the rebels are hiding? I was expecting more", he said.
He then turned to Hi-Commandramon, who awaited the order to attack.
"Awaiting your orders, sir", he said.
Megadramon simply grinned sinisterly as he stared down the entrance to the hideout before giving the attack order.
"Move in", said the cyborg dragon Digimon.
The captain nodded in acknowledgement, then gestured his first wave of troops to march forward inside the tunnel. The D-Brigade forces formed up, trying to get as many Digimon inside as possible without wedging themselves in. Just as they neared the entrance, however, a large stream of fire and magma suddenly erupted out of the entryway, catching the D-Brigade troops by total shock. Unable to move out of the way, they were caught up in the flames and lava, their bodies eventually being destroyed as a result.
"What?!", Hi-Commandramon exclaimed.
Neither he or the other military Digimon could understand as to what had happened. Megadramon, however, didn't even need to guess as to who or what had caused it.
"Come on out, Volcdramon. I know you are in there", said the cyborg Digimon.
Just then, everyone could hear the loud sound of something stomping inside the cave entrance. Peering his head out into the open, the Digital World's sun shined down upon the volcanic Digimon, revealing his presence to the Megadramon and the D-Brigade forces. The cyborg dragon Digimon smiled ominously as he and Volcdramon stared each other down.
"So, the old Digimon wants to come out and play, does he?", he said.
"I may be old, but on my word, as guardian of Magma Plains, I will not let you pass", said the volcanic Digimon.
"Come now. Do you really think you can take us all on your own?", the cyborg dragon Digimon asked sarcastically.
Volcdramon only stared him down, not giving a single reply to his foe. Megadramon could only laugh, not knowing if he was serious or not. It did not matter to the cyborg dragon Digimon, however, as he was ready for whatever the great Digimon would through at him.
"Well then, shall we begin the slaughter?", said Megadramon menacingly.
Volcdramon roared loudly in response, loud enough for everyone in the vicinity to hear. He knew that this would either be a long slog, or it would be the shortest battle of all time. Whatever the outcome, he could only hope that he can give his people the time needed to successfully escape, even at the cost of his own life. The digital sun shine down upon him, showing his defiant stance as he held his ground, ready to take on Megadramon and his forces.
"Have at you, fiend!", he roared.
And that's the end of that chapter, unfortunately. I wanted to add more to this, but there's just too much action I have in mind for a single chapter. There's a lot more to come, though, so stay tuned for more later on. Besides, this chapter is already long enough as it is. On the other hand, I hope that this amount of words will make up for my time away from this story.
If you enjoyed this chapter, please leave a review and follow for more if you want to see more in the future. Until next time!