When they returned to Shadow City and Karatenmon's Dojo, many of the chosen, including Arshan and Coro, went straight to bed from exhaustion. After some rest and food, the older generation introduced themselves and explained what had happened to the baseball player.
"You are an idiota! How could you almost kill Arshan!?" Stefania shouted at Koji, who remained stoic while leaning against the wall.
"Now, now, Stefania," Kari laughed as she tried to pull away the lime-green-haired young woman. "What Koji did was wrong, but Arshan already forgave him."
"Arshan's too nice!" The girl yelled passionately.
"He is. That's a liability in the long run," Yuma picked up a practice blade and walked into one of the practice mats. "Kindness doesn't fit in this type of world."
"Oh great, 2 Kojis. Why do all the generations have the cold and stubborn types?" Kari sighed.
"While you are not wrong, Sir Yuma, you are not right as well," From across Yuma, Karatenmon took two practice blades. "The Restorers are not meant to encounter Ragna Lordmon. Their purpose is something else entirely. As such, perhaps we need fewer warriors. Be that as it may, I ask you to transform proper, and I will see how you fair with a blade."
Yuma looked at his hand and Digivice. Even though he transformed, he didn't quite know how he did so in the heat of the moment.
Koji spoke up. "You should be able to feel something alive in your D-tector. Focus on it, and let it guide your actions."
Yuma nodded, focusing on his hand before the ring of data appeared again. "Execute! Spirit Evolution!" Data swarmed around Yuma before a flash showed him turning into Mushamon.
"Are you prepared?" Karatenmon took a relaxed stance.
Yuma bowed before he launched himself at the Ultimate. As a Mushamon, Yuma should have had enhanced movement and speed. However, Karatenmon avoided each swing of the Champion and made him look like a complete novice.
"Your swings expend too much energy; they're too arcing. Keep your arms folded; it'll better your form and quicken your strikes." Karatenmon went on the offensive. Even though the crow samurai showed little effort, it did not stop how Yuma buckled and struggled to parry and dodge even a single strike from the crow samurai.
"I should also be teaching you a few things," Henry turned to Marcus. "I have some extra cards you can use, including a Digivolution card we can try later."
The darker-skinned teen nodded. "Thank you for that. Though, I am surprised that we have the same Digivice. Shouldn't the newest generation have the same but different from the previous generations?"
"I wondered that too. It's odd the Digital World is using the old Digivices again. But a question for another day. I'll go get my spare cards," Henry and Terriermon led Marcus and Bibi away.
That left Arshan, Stefania, GD, and Coro with Tai, Kari, Zero, and Gatomon.
"Unfortunately, none of the 5th generation is here right now. So we'll have to teach you as much as possible," Kari turned to the two.
"We're the same generation? But we have different Digivices." Arshan said as he picked up his Digivice.
"The 5th had two. Yours, the Data Link Digivice, and Stefania's, the Digivice Burst," Tai raised his brow as he looked between the two. "I know a friend that's better at this, but they're at the far north. They'd be interested in why the new generation seems to be using random Digivices from the older Generations."
"Until we can get to him," Kari clapped her hands. "We'll teach you what we know about the 5th generation! 5th generation can charge their Digivices with their very soul!"
"Meraviglioso!" Stefania threw her hand up energetically. "How do we do that?!"
"It's hard to explain. Honestly, Sensei Karatenmon can do it because," Kari trailed off. "But he's busy with Koji training Yuma." The brunette looked behind them. "First, let's go to a different area."
[Later.]
"Okay," Tai looked to Stefania and Arshan as Coro watched GD posing on a stool. "So the 5th generation is different. From what I understand, their bodies change somewhat when entering the Digital World. Their soul can manifest physically in the form of a colored aura that they use to "charge" their Digivice and make their partners Digivolve. They call it a DNA Charge. I've seen some crazy things done with it, especially with a guy named Marcus Damon, who accessed that aura by punching Digimon with his bare fists, even beating some Mega levels!"
Arshan paled when he heard Coro gasp in delight. "So, Arshan CAN fight!?"
Tai rubbed the back of his head while Kari covered her mouth to stop her laugh. "Marcus Damon is a special case. ...Alongside his dad—but I genuinely don't see Arshan activating that by punching a Digimon," Tai told him.
Arshan still didn't like the way Coro looked at him with amazement. "Coro, no. I'm not punching Digimon that have the power to level a mountain with ease."
The Coronamon's eyes only shined brighter with hope. "But you caaaannnnnnnn."
Tai coughed. "As I was saying! Accessing this aura should be similar to how all generations Digivolve. It requires a strong bond and emotion between partners. You two should be close enough to reach the Champion level."
"Ahhhh?" Arshan raised his hand. "Is there a more... detailed way of explaining how Digivolution works? I don't know what constitutes a strong bond and emotion."
"Sorry, Arshan. It is all about feelings, so it's hard to teach," Kari hugged Gatomon. "It works best when you and your partner feel the same way. If it helps, it's kinda like how Yuma transforms, but instead of a ring of data around your hand, it's the fire of your soul!"
"... Fire a soul?"
"Then allow us to pave the way!" GD jumped forward, speaking over Arshan's confusion. "Stefania, I will allow you to prepare our journey to become God!"
"I'm getting pumped up too!" The 18-year-old clenched her fist before she pushed out her hand. "Let's go! Digivolve!"
Manifesting her feelings and concentrating on GD, the lime-haired young lady felt something manifest in her hand. When she did, a burst of cobalt, square-like flames lit up from her palm.
"H-Hey! I did it! I did it!" Excitedly, Stefania showed her hand to everyone. But one of them had an odd reaction to it...
"Of course you did; you're my companion, after all!" GD looked happy.
"Whoa!" Coro looked impressed. "I can't wait till you do that, Arshan! ... Arshan? Oh. You fainted. ... ARSHAN FAINTED!"
Everyone turned to see the teen flat on the ground. It turns out that Arshan did not appreciate the idea of calling his digital aura something like fire. He had a misunderstood perception of it, and when Stefania somehow pulled it off and showed it to him, the 15-year-old's instincts jumped to the conclusion that he had to willfully spontaneously combust to get Coro to Digivolve.
That idea alone made Arshan's eyes roll into the back of his head as he lost all motor functions.
While the girls, Coro, and the other Digimon went to help up the teen, Tai slowly put a hand over his mouth. "... Wait... I'm starting to see why Ancientwisemon wished us luck on this specific problem..."
[With Marcus and Henry.]
"Wow, I only had three cards. These should help even if I don't Digivolve." The 16-year-old Marcus found himself looking through the cards.
"Unfortunately for you, the grind has only just begun! From now on, you must hunt down and beat up Cardmon with extreme prejudice." Terriermon put his paws on his hips and nodded.
Bibi sweatdropped after hearing that. "You're kidding, right?"
Marcus turned to Henry, expecting the calm teen to scold his partner. However, the 16-year-old's eyes widened when he saw Henry rub the back of his head sheepishly. "Well..."
"What?" Somehow, Marcus' one word captured a feeling of both bewilderment and betrayal coming from someone who looked like the most reasonable out of all the older chosen.
"You technically don't have to, but if you want more cards and more options to help you in the future," Henry tried his best to find a political way of explaining the process. But the fact he couldn't say more than that spoke volumes.
"Errr," Wanting to get to another topic faster than yesterday, Marcus lined up the Digivolution card next to his D-Arc. "So, sliding this will make Bibi Digivolve?"
"Yes. Unfortunately, reaching the Ultimate and Mega stages is also learned and can't be taught. But we'll talk about that another time. I will say that even as a Champion, you can use more cards as Bibi will have more stamina to use them," Henry and Terriermon gave room for Marcus and Bibi.
"You ready?" Marcus looked down at the pink bird, who only nodded. "Alright, Digi-Modify! Digivolution!"
As Marcus swiped the card in his fuchsia and black Digivice, Henry had this odd feeling that he had forgotten something important.
"Digivolution." Marcus' Digivice lit up as the word was completed. Bibi was surrounded by a fushia energy in the shape of an egg. Unlike Yuma's transformation which was more primal and tribalistic, Bibi's felt raw and untamed with the energy transforming her.
"Biyomon Digivolve too...!" Her body reformed, becoming larger and sharper. Nearing the end of the transformation, her eyes snapped open before she unfurled her new form. "Aquilamon!" As the voice called out the name, the new being appeared before the three: a large red hawk with horns.
Marcus smiled as he saw the information his Digivice showed him. "Aquilamon. Champion level. Alright, we did it! Good job, Bibi!" Marcus nodded as he stepped forward.
Yet, at that moment, Henry remembered. A long time ago, when he was starting and the first to reach champion level in his generation, there was a major difference in how the 3rd Generation Digivolves.
Bibi's eyes stilled before they formed into slits. A second later, she shrieked as she unleashed her wingspan, pushing and knocking Marcus back.
Henry remembered too late. "3rd Generation Digimon aren't used to Digivolving the first time! Bibi's out of control!" He quickly took out his own Digivice. However, a black blur sped past him and unleashed a single karate chop on the neck of the champion that hit a pressure point. Bibi gasped, and her eyes rolled to the back of her head before she fell forward... to get caught by Karatenmon.
As Bibi's body returned to rookie form, everyone else ran towards the commotion.
"I overheard what Henry said," Karatenmon gently laid the unconscious bird on the ground. "It has been a while, so do not blame yourself for relearning old mistakes."
Henry looked over to Marcus. "I'm so sorry. I forgot about... Marcus?"
The teen with an afro gasped for air. Many recognized him hyperventilating at the moment. Yet, hearing his name, Marcus snapped out of it and shook his head. "I-I'm fine! I'm fine!" He stood up faster than anyone could ask him. "I wasn't expecting... that."
Karatenmon closed his eyes. "I suggest we take a break. I know we only began, but perhaps we pushed our newcomers too far. We will resume training tomorrow."
"I'm fine," Marcus turned at the crow samurai with narrowed eyes. "Like I said, I was caught off guard. It won't happen again."
"True, but the same could not be said for Bibi," Karatenmon motioned to the pink bird with swirls in her eyes. "Rest for a little longer as we gather our bearings."
"Tch!" Marcus clicked his tongue, though Arshan felt the teen's anger more directed at himself than anyone else. With that, Marcus went back towards the Dojo, leaving others behind.
Koji stepped forward. "Tai, I need you to patrol with me."
The most experienced chosen turned to the Warrior of Light. "You're worried about our unwanted guest upstairs?"
Koji didn't need to nod to confirm. "We were hasty in our retreat. We may have also been sloppy."
Tai didn't argue. "Alright. Zero and I will accompany you. Watch over the others, alright?" He looked over to Kari and Henry for that second sentence.
The three left soon after. But that didn't stop everyone from hearing a bell at the entrance of Karatenmon's Dojo.
"Odd," Karatenmon's body tensed in a way that only Kari and Henry noticed. "It is almost as if someone waited for those two to leave before ringing the bell."
The Ultimate went towards the gates. Gatomon stayed behind to watch the newbies while the others followed Karatenmon. At the entrance, the crow samurai found a scroll waiting by his doorstep.
As he read the contents, Kari and Henry noticed Karatenmon's frown deepening.
"Is something wrong, sensei?" Henry asked.
"It's the Shadow City Council. They've summoned me," He turned to the two. "Now."
"I don't like the sound of that."
Henry had to agree with Kari. Things did not add up in a good way.
"I must make leave. Henry, I ask that you accompany me. I have a suspicion about the topic of this summon. Kari, please watch over the newcomers."
Kari nodded as Karatenmon, Henry, and Teriermon left. Still, even though they should have been in a safe zone, why did an unsettling feeling fill her stomach?
[With Marcus]
Marcus sat on the chair as he saw Bibi sleeping after Karatenmon knocked her out. Gatomon brought her to her bed and let her stay there until she woke up. In the meantime, Marcus sighed deeply before he found his right arm rubbing over the bandages of his left arm.
"Are you alright?" The afroed-teen saw Arshan taking a chair nearby him.
"I told Karatenmon I was fine," Marcus sighed before silence fell between him and the skittish teen. "Why are you here?"
Marcus felt bad that he was blunt with Arshan. But he had a lot of feelings to sort out, especially with that episode triggering some unwanted memories.
"I was worried about you."
Arshan meant well but Marcus? Those words hit a sore spot for him. Flashes of his past, which included heated words and pained feelings, flew in his mind before he lashed out. "Look, when I said I'm fine. I meant it! How many times do I have to spell it out for...!" He realized he wasn't speaking to anyone in his past, but Arshan, who didn't know what those words meant to him.
"I'm sorry I brought up bad memories," Arshan apologized even though it was Marcus who shouted.
"No. No," Marcus pinched the bridge of his nose. He felt annoyed that he was slipping so much from his promise to be more independent. "I need a moment. Alone would be nice."
Arshan twiddled his thumbs but didn't leave yet. Instead, he rolled up his left sleeve, and Marcus spotted a burn scar on the younger teen's left arm.
Marcus found himself staring at the scar, especially when he noticed Arshan looking right at him. Marcus wanted to tell the teen to leave again, but he didn't want to push it. But at that moment, Arshan spoke, as if answering the question about his wounds, "My mom."
"What?" Marcus saw Arshan, who seemed to be thinking more about what to say.
"This one... many of my scars," Arshan didn't have to motion to them for Marcus to see he had many. But closer inspections made him realize they were worse than they looked. "Were from my mom."
Marcus was silent after hearing that.
"My therapist, Mr. Gold, says that talking about it helps. I don't know if it does. You're the first one I ever told this to besides him."
That made Marcus perk up. "Why?"
"I felt the same way you did. When I thought... someone was gonna..." The dark-green-eyed boy trailed off, not wanting to finish the sentence. "You can talk to me if you want. I won't judge; I don't have anyone else to talk to but Coro."
Marcus sighed and leaned into his seat. Arshan was awkward, but he was showing that he cared. "Thanks, I'll... take that offer one day," He folded his arms. Yet, a previous mention made him ask something that didn't add up: if his mom was abusive, how'd he see a therapist? "Do you still live with your mom?"
"No," Marcus had a feeling that was the case when Arshan talked about his therapist, but it was good to have confirmation. "Social Services found and separated us when I was 7. I've been living in a foster home where I was homeschooled until high school. ... I made a complete fool out of myself on the first day," The teen's face paled at the last sentence.
Marcus felt a smile coming up. After a topic as heavy as an abusive parent, Arshan was more nervous about school? "Come on, it can't be that bad."
"I got punched in the face by the school bully. Not because he was bullying me, but because I was walking behind the guy he was bullying, who ducked and made the bully's punch hit me, which made me fall down the stairs. As I was trying to get back up, I slipped on a banana peel and fell face-first into the popular girl's skirt. Then when I got back up again, I bolted out of panic, and when I turned back to look, I didn't see the opened locker door and slammed right into it and fell like something straight out of the 3 Stooges."
Marcus stared in disbelief, unable to find words except one. "Huh."
"And then after recess," Oh god. Arshan wasn't even finished.
"Okay," Marcus raised his hand. "I uh. I get the idea," He ended up patting the teen's shoulder. "But thanks, Arshan. I appreciate you cheering me up. Where are the others?"
"Oh, GD was trying to get Coro and me to witness him Digivolving, but Funbeemon spoke louder and wanted Coro and me to help train Yuma. Then the two got into another brawl while grabbing both of Coro's arms in a tug of war..." Arshan realized what he said. "I-I need to go check on Coro. He didn't mind being pulled when I left, but then Yuma and Stefania started to get invol—I should go."
The teen bolted out fast. "Coro! Are you alright!?" "I feel my arms getting marginally longer! You should give it a try, Arshan!" "Huh? Wait, your arms are longer? Then I, GD, will have my turn next!" "Oh no you don't! As queen, I will have my wings extended as well!" "Aww come on!" "You two, give it a rest!"
Marcus sighed as he picked up the Digivolution card and looked at Bibi. "One more time."
[With Karatenmon]
The center of Shadow City represented most of its people and surroundings: a mish-mash of cultures blended into one. As such, the tower Karatenmon and Henry entered looked as if it was made by a toddler, sticking pieces of other buildings that should have fallen apart a long time ago. However, the Council of Shadow City believed it to be the perfect place to hold meetings.
Said council had 5 members, all Ultimate Level Digimon who manage sections of the city in their own way. Although varied, they united under one idea: safety from Ragna Lordmon.
The elevator stopped, reaching the highest point of the tower.
Karatenmon sighed. "I am not looking forward to this."
"You got this, Sensei!" Terriermon used one of his ears to give a thumbs-up sign. "Those council punks are all hot air."
"Hmmm," The doors opened and Karatenmon stepped out. "Terriermon, if you are referring to all council members, do you also mean me?"
The room in front of them held a large, fancy star-shaped table. Each pointed end held a balcony for five Digimon. Four Digimon watched as Karatenmon entered his area as one of the Councilmen of Shadow City, the overseer and head of security. Being a mind reader, Karatenmon screened all newcomers on the off chance they were one of Ragna Lordmon's people.
"You're also full of hot air, but you're way more cool about it," Terriermon walked after Henry, who stood behind the Crow Samurai.
"Well, well, someone looks like he's in a mood. What's the matter, birdy? Think you're too good for us?" To Karatenmon's left was a Digimon by the name of Dark Superstarmon. He sat on a chair with his hands behind his star-shaped body and propped up his legs on the rails of the balcony. Karatenmon did his best not to leer at the Digimon. Even without his mind-reading powers, he knew Dark Superstarmon preferred solving all problems by a show of force. He was the closest thing to a police chief Shadow City had, organizing groups to stop potential fights and troubles. Though many had inklings he caused said fights and troubles.
"That's enough out of you, Dark Superstarmon. This meeting is urgent!" To Karatenmon's right was Loaderleomon. Taciturn, strict, but fair. He was in charge of expansions and constructions around the city. Karatenmon hoped he would have been a potential ally, but even LoaderLeomon looked disturbed.
"Yes! Urgent! Urgent! Must get back to hive. Must prepare tunnels! Hurry up with talking, so Scorpionmon can be busy!" To the right of Loaderleomon, and speaking his name out loud, was Scorpionmon. One of Shadow City's best scavengers and scouts for the surface. While a few stones shy of a cave, it didn't stop the fact that he earned his seat as one of the most influential and powerful of the Ultimates in Shadow City.
"Very well, we shall begin," On the last pointed end of the star table was a balcony filled with water. Mermaidmon looked and fought much like a pirate, but her words made everyone else prepare for their meeting. Everyone respected her; after all, she was the one who organized the creation of Shadow City. "Karatenmon, I'm sure you're well aware that one of the Titans is currently patrolling the island."
"I am working with a group of specialists to solve this problem," Karatenmon kept his hands behind his back as he answered Mermaidmon.
"You mean humans!?" Dark Superstarmon stood from his seat and pointed over to the samurai. "It's bad enough you had to invite some over after the recent fiasco! But now, we've got reports saying that you brought in more of them!? And lookie what happens: there's a Titan at our doorstep! Their stench is probably attracting that monster!"
"No! No! Titan bad! Very bad! Not even Titan of Earth! At least Scropiomon would have been killed by shiny rocks and pretty rocks! But no!"
"Quiet." Mermaidmon raised her hand and the two Digimon became silent. "However, their concerns are valid, Karatenmon. Considering it is the Titan of Wood, its control over plants, even the dead ones above us, can turn our city into a giant coffin if it so much as senses us past the wards."
"As I said, before I was interrupted," Karatenmon shifted his eyes over at Dark Superstarmon before turning back to the others. "I am working with others to subdue the threat."
"May I assume that this plan involves humans?" Mermaidmon turned to Henry and Terriermon behind the council member. "Karatenmon, I am aware of Humans raising Digimon to reach Levels we can only dream of, but the fact remains that no matter how many the Digital World sends, not a single one has ended Ragna Lordmon's rule. In fact, their battles only hurt the Digital World further."
Karatenmon's eyes widened. "Mermaidmon, please; that is a gross misconception. Ragna Lordmon has jeopardized the safety and stability of the Digital World on multiple occasions. His first incursions imbalanced the plane of the dead and brought forth Abaddonmon! The Chosen were the ones to right that wrong!"
"Oh yeah, it's TOTALLY better now," Dark Superstarmon rolled his eyes. "With the last Death God, Plutomon, gone, it was the first domino in destroying our rebirth cycle! Eggs started to appear out of Primary Villages before Ragna Lordmon razed all of them down!"
Karatenmon's eyes narrowed to the star-shaped Ultimate. "Then, I'll have you know that a Primary Village has just been recently restored. By a human no less."
While that sounded like good news, it didn't stop Dark Superstarmon from slamming a fist on his rail. "Oh big whoop! So the new humans have ANOTHER fancy power! It's just gonna end up like all the last ones: fail to defeat Ragna Lordmon and push us even further to the brink!"
Terriermon narrowed his eyes. "Henry, let's Biomerge and crush him."
"Don't say that out loud," Henry held his friend in his arms.
"Odd, I didn't hear a no in that."
"Both of you, enough," Mermaidmon raised her voice but did not shout. As silence came to the room again, the sea Ultimate spoke. "Karatenmon, the council will not deny how all humans have the power to shape the Digital World. However, what good they have done ultimately becomes undone as long as Ragna Lordmon exists. After all, they were brought here for his extermination," She looked over at both Henry and Terriermon. "How much closer are you to defeating him than you were when you first arrived?"
It was a simple question, but Henry and Terriermon found no answer.
Mermaidmon closed her eyes. "Tab Island was supposed to be ignored, void of life and any valuable resource on the surface so that no other Digimon would be aware of Shadow City's existence. The only possible reason for a Titan to be here would be humans, much like the ones you allowed to enter into your dojo."
"With all due respect, Mermaidmon," Karatenmon inhaled. "Ragna Lordmon has Ancientwisemon's powers. He was aware of Shadow City long before its conception."
"Yes, aware. But he paid it no mind until now," Loaderleomon spoke next. "Many here are not fighters, Karatenmon. They are all the lucky ones who somehow escaped the fighting! The longer the Titan is here, the more at risk our people are!"
Karatenmon's eyes widened. The way Loaderleomon spoke signaled that the council had its way of addressing the Titan issue, and it was starkly different from Karatenmon and the other Chosen. "What are you saying?"
"Titan here because of humans!" Scorpionmon shouted. "Get rid of Humans, get rid of Titan!"
"Please, you're the mind reader, and you couldn't come up with that?" Dark Superstarmon concurred with Scorpionmon.
"You're exiling them!?" Karatenmon lost his composure as he leaned forward on the railings.
"We are," Mermaidmon answered. "Humans are no longer welcome in Shadow City."
"Why was I not informed of this!? I should have been here debating before this rule would have passed!" Karatenmon shouted as he looked at everyone.
"Because, Karatenmon," Mermaidmon spoke again. Her voice was quieter, but everyone heard her. "Before this meeting was called, 4 pre-voted to have the humans exiled."
"4?" Karatenmon repeated the words before he looked at Loaderleomon. Scorpionmon and Dark Superstarmon were obvious votes, but to think even Loaderleomon and Mermaidmon would agree with them?
"I understand if you hate me. But at least you be alive to hate." Loaderleomon closed his eyes.
"For formalities sake," Mermaidmon raised her voice. "A new law will be put into a vote: all in favor of allowing the humans to stay?"
Karatenmon was too stunned at what was happening before him to raise his hand.
"And all in favor of exiling the humans from Shadow City?"
Four limbs raised upward and sealed their fate.
[Later.]
"We should have biomerged and beat them all up."
"Terriermon. No."
"Terriermon, yes!"
Henry sighed, but it wasn't at his partner's reaction. Time had passed since the declaration, enough that Tai and Koji returned. Karatenmon decided to tell everyone the news.
"So, we're not allowed to be here anymore, huh?" Kari sighed. "Think we can just live with Wizardmon from now on?"
"For whatever it is worth, the rule will not be enforced until 3 days from now," Karatenmon shook his head. "I apologize, I should have fought for your right to stay."
"You don't need to apologize," Koji was the one who spoke next. "You've been more than hospitable to everyone. It's not surprising this happened, considering how much Digimon hate us."
"But where will we go?" Stefania asked.
"Well, it's not that bad," Tai rubbed the back of his head. "We were never gonna stay here for long. I had places I wanted you all to visit. This just... ups our timetable...by a lot."
"That's putting it lightly," Koji walked up. "But we have more bad news. The Titan of Wood is searching around the area we were last in. That's closer to Shadow City than he was before. There's a good chance he'll sense Shadow City in less than 3 days."
"Please tell me you're kidding," Marcus asked.
"No. He's not," Tai folded his arms and closed his eyes. "Our hand is forced, as usual. Even if he never detected Shadow City, I intended us to confront the Titan of Wood before he sensed these innocent Digimon," Tai paused before he looked to the Ultimate. "Sensei Karatenmon, send the call. Gather the last of Xros Heart in the City."
"I will do so, but one of them... I'm not sure he will answer it."
"... Send it to him anyway," Tai said before Karatenmon nodded and flew out of the dojo.
"Wait," Funbeemon raised her brow. "What's Xros Heart?"
"The name of our Army," Kari fished for a bandana in her pocket. The arm bandana looked well-kept and bright red. It had the symbol of a face that looked familiar to the newbies. "It represents... or represented the last allied forces against Ragna Lordmon. The leader of this army had a partner who talked non-stop about being the King of the Digital World after overthrowing Ragna Lordmon... you two remind me a lot about him."
Funbeemon and GD looked at each other when Kari turned to them.
Hearing about how there was someone like Funbeemon before them, prompted Yuma to ask, "What happened to him?"
Kari frowned and seemed hesitant to answer, so Koji spoke instead. "The same as everyone else: they lost when they should have won. Though, that one was... rough. I really thought we had him that time."
"Why?" Coro asked.
The Warrior of Light went on. "The last generation's gimmick was fusing. They could fuse Digimon with other Digimon in a more versatile and possibly powerful version than DNA Digivolving. Taiki Kudou and Shoutmon, to stop Ragna Lordmon, invoked the most powerful fusion of all: he fused with ALL Digimon in the world to strike down Ragna Lordmon."
Arshan gasped. His mind went back to what Fugamon said. ("That last one! We finally thought you all had him—that we had him! And then he!")
"Wait... that means... everyone in the city also fought against him?" The other newbies' eyes widened when they heard Arshan confirm such an impossible-sounding idea.
"But, it STILL wasn't enough?" Stefania looked at the experienced chosen. "Even with everyone else in the world pitching in?"
"We thought it did work," Gatomon sighed. "The first strike erased his body, leaving his arm and a fraction of his face fading away to dust..."
"Then," Everyone looked at Terriermon, who dropped his ears. "The hand clenched into a fist at the same time his lone eye snapped open. The fading stopped. ... His body started to reform. We struck him again, with energy enough to destroy the Digital World 7 times over, but after the first strike, he regenerated faster and faster..."
"But that wasn't the worst part," Everyone turned to Zero as his demeanor became somber. "This time, everyone witnessed Ragna Lordmon's impossible immortality. With over 98 percent of Digimon seeing it for the first time, in the most powerful fusion ever in the Digital World, it was only a few moments before the entire Digimon population felt the weight of everyone else's fear in a feedback loop. That broke the fusion, and like with Susanoomon, Ragna Lordmon sped in and took both Taiki and Shoutmon. What happened next was nothing short of a shitstorm I don't want to remember."
The newcomers were all in shock. Not only did a god fail, but also the entire population of the Digital World couldn't kill Ragna Lordmon!?
"You guys have to have found the reason as to WHY he's immortal!" Yuma shouted as he stepped forward. "There's no way all of you just blindly tried to kill him over and over again without figuring out the mystery behind it!"
Tai sighed in a way that came deep from his lungs. "After Ragna Lordmon killed Ancientwisemon, he didn't just obscure the future, he censored the past. Beings like Yggdrasil and Homeostasis, who were Digital Entities that oversaw the Digital World fully, suddenly lost their ability to scan and comprehend him. All we know is from Ancientwisemon, who may be Ragna Lordmon giving us false information this whole time, and Marcus Damon from the 5th generation. When he punched Ragna Lordmon, he felt a connection between Ragna Lordmon, his ring, and the blade and shield he used. Aside from that, whenever we did try to find out more about his immortality, we were always on a timetable as Ragna Lordmon was damaging the Digital World further and further while mystery solving was too slow on all ends. Ignoring him too long caused..." Tai said nothing more, but Henry frowned.
"Ragna Lordmon covered his bases," Tai pinched the bridge of his nose. "Unlike the many Digimon under his employ that underestimated us and were always so cock-sure. It doesn't help the guy is also tight-lipped. I've never heard him say anything other than orders to his followers."
"It doesn't help that even without that immortality, he's an unbelievable fighter." Gatomon folded her arms.
"Hmmm," Coro put a hand on his chin. "Didn't you say that Ragna Lordmon coming after us was different?"
"I'm hoping—even if it's a longshot—that Ragna Lordmon will finally let something slip. He's mostly ignored all of us, even when we've almost killed him. So why is he after all of you?" Tai unfolded his arms. "But, that's a topic for another day. Karatenmon is gathering what's left of our forces. It won't be much, but their purpose is to distract the Titan for our ace in the hole: you guys."
The Restorers and their Digimon partners straightened up after hearing those words.
"Tomorrow, we will begin your training to Digivolve again. And when everyone is here, I'll begin our first war council in a long time..."
"...And we'll purify Ancient Troiamon."
[Karatenmon]
Everything went better than he hoped. Karatenmon was asking for the remains of a defeated army to join a potential suicide mission. He was surprised that many of them said yes. A small smile came to the Ultimate. Even defeated, those who chose to join Xros Heart believed in the cause of a free and peaceful Digital World. Yet, he made one last stop. Unlike the others, he had a feeling of the answer regardless of his mind-reading.
The house was rundown, abandoned, and broken. But it didn't stop the Ultimate from opening the creaking door. It was perhaps the first time light entered the room and the first time the horrible smell escaped.
"Who's there?" A breathy and weak voice spoke from the shadows. It didn't take Karatenmon to spot the Digimon literally wasting away in a corner.
"Dorulumon," Karatenmon began before trying to find the words. "there is a call for all remaining Xros Heart members. Ancient Troiamon is getting closer to the City, and we have a plan to confront it."
Silence, smell, and darkness filled the room.
"Who sent the call?"
"Tai did."
"... Who answered it?"
"All but you," Karatenmon couldn't hide his surprise at how successful he was at that still.
"Then you have all that you need. Leave me alone."
Karatenmon knew this was the most likely outcome. However, he spoke again. "This self-flagellation has gone far enough. I respected your privacy after the defeat of Shoutmon and Taiki, but you cannot blame yourself for something that was the fault of Ragna Lordmon and the Crown War."
Karatenmon felt like he stirred a beast. Or at least, he could feel the spirit of the Digimon stir like a poked dragon... until his failing body dosed whatever spark got ignited.
"I've failed far too many times. I failed when I was evil, and when I was good. I failed friends to whom I swore an oath. I'll fail even a Suicide Mission in the worst possible way. Say your words, Karatenmon. I do not deserve even a warrior's death."
"But your spirit has died before you," The Ultimate sighed and turned away. Before he left, Karatenmon said one more thing, "For the sake of being said, we meet in my dojo tomorrow. ... and from personal experience? Surrender never leads to freedom."
[Night.]
Stefania woke up from her bed. It's not that she was uncomfortable, but the weight of the events was starting to catch up to her: she was stolen from her home and into this alien world to save it. When she finally met others like her who brought her to safety, she found out the locals were immediately kicking them out into the dying and war-torn world created by some impossibly immortal tyrant. Not only that, she and a few other newcomers like her were expected to be the ace-in-the-hole for something called a Titan, which she had a feeling wasn't a title, but an apt comparison to the legendary giants of Greek Myth.
She thought back to what Koji said about Arshan, how he wasn't ready for this type of world. Perhaps that applied to all of them, as this was... a lot of responsibility was on their shoulders out of nowhere.
But as she wondered this, the green-haired young lady noticed GD was gone from his bed. It didn't take her long before she found the Gumdramon looking up at the ceiling of the city.
"Oh?" GD turned, hearing and seeing his partner. "Why are you up?"
"I," The Gumdramon realized he was sitting before he bolted up and puffed his chest. "I mean, of course, I'm up! As the future god of this..."
Stefania frowned. Gumdramon was a proud Digimon, but seeing him falter made her realize something about her partner. He truly wanted to be the best and strongest. But hearing how the others threw a literal god and the Digital World itself against Ragna Lordmon and failed, must have made Gumdramon pause. It's not that anyone questioned him about becoming the God Dragon of the Digital World, but his ideals grand as they were, fell short against the Immortal Warbringer he wanted to overcome.
In other words, Gumdramon's pride was damaged not because of ego, but because the weight of reality was heavier than his dream. Stefania understood this, but she hated seeing her friend this way. As she struggled to find a way to cheer her friend up, she heard something.
[Yuma and Funbeemon.]
Yuma had a similar situation. Fanbeemon couldn't sleep for the same reason: the idea that someone like her, claiming and wanting to be King of the Digital World, failed against Ragna Lordmon was a hard pill to swallow. She wanted to play it off, but Kari's words pointed at her (and GD) made her realize there was someone they would have considered a King to overcome Ragna Lordmon.
Yuma tried to organize his thoughts and find something worth saying to cheer up his friend. However, he felt unsure after hearing what everyone else went through in attempting to stop Ragna Lordmon.
Then, they both heard something.
[Marcus and Bibi.]
Bibi felt bad that she couldn't control herself after she Digivolved. When she woke up, she saw Marcus sitting down waiting for her.
"I'm sorry, Marcus, I didn't expect all of that sudden power."
"It's alright. We were caught off guard," He inhaled. "I'm glad you're safe too. We'll do better next time."
Before Bibi could speak again, the two got distracted by something outside.
[Tai, Koji, and Karatenmon]
"Drat, Taiki was better at this. I could even use Thomas' opinion if he was here," The first-generation Chosen put a hand on his chin as he looked at the map of Tab Island.
"Ancient Troiamon is a walking super fort," Koji added. "He has cannons mounted in every angle, and that's not even including his ability to control and manipulate plant life. For us to have a chance, we need to fight him in a place with the least amount of plant life possible."
"That's going to be a problem. Tab Island may have many dead lands, but they still have much flora," Karatenmon looked at the map. "I'm worried for the Restorers. It'll be hard to keep the Titan's attention on us while they attempt to purify his core."
"Koji," Tai spoke up. "I want you to lead them. You can clear any potential shenanigans inside the Titan's form while the rest of us keep his attention outside."
Koji nodded. "We still need to find a good location for the fight. If we can't, our Megas are gonna have trouble keeping the Titan's attention. And it'll be worse for the remainder of Xros Heart."
Tai looked down at the map and furrowed his brow. They were getting nowhere until they turned to something outside.
[Arshan and Coro.]
Arshan couldn't sleep. Emotions were high, and as an empath, he could feel much of the stress and worry not just from the Dojo, but Shadow City.
Feeling stressed, Arshan found himself walking out to the middle of the dojo, carrying something with him.
"What are you doing, Arshan?"
"It's... something I do when I have a lot on my mind," Arshan opened up the violin case he found. "It helps me clear my thoughts and settle my feelings."
The teen exhaled as before he began to play with the violin. The piece started slowly at first, but Arshan started to play faster, but each note was as high as it was gentle. The notes flowed like the wind cascading on a flower field, gentle and refreshing.
Although Arshan tried to bother no one, the fact of the matter was that no one could sleep meant that everyone in the dojo heard him play music. Its calming tunes gave those hearing it a clearer mind.
[Yuma and Funbeemon]
Yuma, hearing the music, felt calmer. With his emotions stabilized a thought occurred to him. He looked over to Funbeemon. "Why do you want to be the Queen of the Digital World?"
The questions took the flying rookie by surprise. However, Fanbeemon inhaled. "... Because I don't want to be so afraid. All my life, I've been so afraid, so weak. And I hated how I had to hide and starve for most of my life. And I hated more how sometimes, I had to steal from others to get by. I thought that maybe—just maybe—if I was the ruler of the Digital World, I'd make sure that no one else would suffer like I did. That's when I realized I wanted to be queen, to stop this suffering!" Her eyes regained their light. "I wasn't part of the fusion, but that doesn't mean I won't fight again this time! I will be the new ruler of the Digital World! I'll make it so no one has to suffer like me, all those Digignomes... and Ballistamon! I hate the Digital World as it is now, and I can't stand it! T-That's why I want to be queen! I want to make this world better as I know it can be!"
Yuma felt himself smile. Her sense of pride came from her horrible upbringing, and that lit a fire in him. While the music played, he took a knee to bow. "If you promised to become the Digital World's Queen, I'll make a promise as well: I as your samurai, will help be a tool to help heal the Digital World," Yuma looked up. "As a samurai, I guess that makes you my Shogun."
"Queen Shogun? I like the sound of that!" Funbeemon looked back down. "I suppose we're also not alone. The vassals of Coro and Arshan look to be fine side companions! Perhaps I'll allow Arshan to create a new ballad for my rise!"
The two felt their spirits lift. The road before them was long, but they saw a glimpse of hope, no matter how small it was.
[Marcus and Bibi]
"... Marcus, when you're ready, I want to Digivolve again!" Bibi looked determined to her partner.
"Yeah. We've got a long way to go," Marcus held his Digivice and looked over to the cards Henry gave him. "But for now, rest. We've got a long day tomorrow, and we'll spend our energy on training!"
"Right!"
[Stefania and GD]
Stefania and GD spotted and heard Arshan play. The music soothed Stefania. And being a huge fan of music herself, recognized the song the dark-green-eyed teen was playing: it was a version of One Republic's Secrets but more orchestral. But despite her knowing the song, the music relaxed her doubts and fears. With her mind cleared, she looked over to GD.
"I never got to say this, but thank you," Stefania saw the Gumdramon turn to her before she rubbed the head of her partner. "You saved my life when I first woke up here in the Digital World. I probably would have been eaten by those Eaters or worse if you hadn't saved me. And it's thanks to your insistence that we got to meet others. I admit, the odds are stacked against us. But, seeing everyone so sad and hurt? I don't like that. That's why, I wanna help you and the others save the Digital World. I wanna see what this place can be without their evil ruler!"
GD stared at Stefania before he smiled and rubbed his nose. "Well said, Stefania! You are shaping up to be a better companion than I thought! How could I lose faith so easily?! But let that be the only time! This is my rise to become the God Dragon of the Digital World! Tomorrow, we will assist Xros Heart, and with my and your effort, I will mark the first chapter of my apotheosis by taming the Titan!"
GD punched forward, making Stefania nod and make a bro-fist to her partner. Both were also invigorated by the music Arshan played.
"But I gotta talk to Arshan! I didn't know he could play! I've got sooooo maaaannnyyy questions about him! How'd he get that violin!? Where'd he learn to play!? Do you think he has an extra instrument I could use too!?"
GD looked down. "Ha! The vassals of Coro and Arshan look to be fine side companions! Perhaps I'll allow Arshan to create a new ballad for my rise!"
Unknown to GD, he said the same exact thing as Funbeemon at the same time.
[Tai, Koji, and Karatenmon.]
Tai heard Arshan playing music again, but suddenly, the music made him look down at the Tab Island map.
"Karatenmon, here. Northwest of where we picked up Arshan and the others."
"The Bronze Band Grave?" Karatenmon and Koji looked at the place where Tai pointed.
Tai smiled after hearing the name. "Arshan playing made me remember. On our way here, there was a land full of broken musical instruments and other giant band instruments. I don't remember seeing a single blade of grass there."
"I'll scout the area at dawn," Koji said. "I should be able to find a good engage spot for us to take cover from the Titan's attacks."
Tai smiled. Battle plans were coming along nicely. "Good. That's another problem solved."
[Coro and Arshan.]
Arshan ended his song, sighing as he did so. Coro cooed in awe as he clapped his hands.
A small smile crossed Arshan's face before he sat down on one of the rocks. "Thanks, Coro."
"What's the matter, Arshan? You played amazing!"
"Yeah. Just... memories..." Arshan looked at the violin the Digital World gave him. "I used to play with my mom and dad before..." He trailed off. "Do you think we can save the Digital World? Better people have tried and failed. I-I don't know how we can do it."
"I believe you're amazing, Arshan!" Coro gave a simple and loyal smile. "I've seen you save me and help Kari and the others! And I promise, I won't let anything bad happen to you!"
Arshan still had doubts, but the purity of Coro's words made the teen reach out and pet his friend's head. "Maybe one day, I'll be as brave as you."
"I'll help! It'll be easy as soon as we figure out how you can punch that Titan!"
Arshan's face fell as he realized his partner was STILL trying to get him to attack stronger Digimon to get him to Digivolve. "... Coro, I'm not going to unlock my Digi-Soul by punching the Titan."
"Not with that attitude!"
While the two 'bickered' in the nicest way possible, everyone else psyched themselves up for the coming fight.
The Restorers may have been dropped straight into the fires of the Digital World, but their sparks ignited a flame of hope.
Only time will tell if hope will burn or be snuffed by twisted wood.
[Elsewhere]
Far above, on the surface, there was a mountain. It, like most of the island of Tabs, was barren and desolate. However, as if by a miracle, grass, and trees grew on its surface. Dying plants became revitalized and regained color that was thought to never return.
Then, they kept growing. Flowers grew to the size of trees, while trees bent and twisted in angles that looked malformed and threatening. This overgrowth continued, making the plants and grass smother each other without signs of stopping.
Behind the mountain, a shadow appeared that equaled its size. But unlike the mountain, it moved. Bits of moonlight shined down on the titan, revealing an enormous wooden horse, similar to the legends of Troy. However, this titan exuded power from the Digital World itself.
A single eye shone, but the light was like static, an eerie glow that made nature choke on its overabundance.
It then unleashed a roar, one similar to the sound of a thousand redwood trees collapsing at the same time.
[Author Notes.]
So here is Chapter 3 of Failsafe! Whoooo hooooo!
We're setting up the first arc: the Titan of Wood/ VS Ancient Troiamon! Hot dang, it's not even chapter 5, and here the first of the newcomers have to fight one of the strongest Megas in the Digital World. Talk about difficulty curves.
So, thanks again for reading. And I also thank you for your patience. I know you all want to see your characters and submissions soon. (Me too! I promise!) However, I underestimated my writing style. I do hope the story is enjoyable regardless.
And I am trying my best to make this story work. Though, after this, I'll probably work on my other projects before coming back to the next chapter.
But seriously, thank you for the support. I know this story may not be like the others, or as good, but I do love my characters, and I want to give them and yours love for an idea that's very fun to me.
Please review, and thank you for reading!