Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

Everyone was still trying to process the events of the past few hours while Saki cried uncontrollably, driving her fists into the rocks on the beach.

“It’s not fair! It’s not fair! It’s not fair!” Saki cried.

Takuma slowly walked over to his girlfriend and put a hand on her back.

“Is it okay if I give you a hug?” Takuma said tenderly.

Saki turned to her boyfriend and gave him a teary-eyed nod of approval. Takuma wrapped his arms around Saki as she enveloped him in return. At this point, Saki was letting out small whimpers as opposed to full-on screaming.

Miu tugged on Kaito’s sweater.

“Kaito, where do you think he is?” Miu asked, referring to Shuuji.

“I don’t know.” Kaito said, “Miu, I mean no ill will when I say this, but maybe you should exercise some caution around Shakomon.”

Miu scowled at Kaito in offense and said, “What are you trying to say, that Shakomon is gonna attack me or something?”

Kaito stuttered. He was implying that Shakomon might attack Miu, but he didn't want to sound like he distrusted Digimon as a whole. Kaito was about to say something when Minoru spoke up.

“Think about it, Miu. If Shuuji had no issue turning on us, who's to say the Digimon won’t follow?” Minoru said, much to Falcomon’s chagrin.

“How could you say that, Minoru? We’d never dream of betraying any of you!” Falcomon shouted.

“Can you prove that you won’t turn on us?” Minoru said.

Falcomon paused, “I see. Goodbye, Minoru.” He sighed as he ran away into the abandoned city in the distance.

“Way to go assholes; now Falcomon hates us!” Miu said.

“What the hell did I do!?” Kaito exclaimed.

“You know exactly what the fuck you did!” Miu stated, “And I don’t want to hear a word from you unless it’s an apology!”

Miu grabbed Haru and Miyuki’s arms and stomped away into the small forest. Kaito looked at Dracmon for reassurance, but all the vampire did was give him an unsure shrug. Kaito continued to ponder until he overheard Aoi and Saki yelling at each other.

“How is this my fault!? I wasn't the one who snapped Lopmon’s neck!” Aoi yelled.

“If you hadn't insisted on us fighting Mega Seadramon, then Lopmon would still be here!” Saki shouted.

“Well, what did you want us to do?” Aoi asked.

“Ignore him!” Saki replied.

Aoi rolled her eyes and scoffed. “Of course the blonde would say something stupid.”

“Y’know, I bet you’d be singing a different tune if Labramon was in Lopmon’s place.” Saki sneered.

Aoi turned around and glared at the younger girl; she had half a mind to smack Saki upside the head.

“Don't you dare bring Labramon into this.” Aoi said coldly.

“Why? Are you implying that you wouldn't save Labramon if she were in Lopmon’s shoes?” Saki callously smirked.

Aoi crossed her arms and said, “For a Digimon that was never your partner, you sure do talk about Lopmon a lot.” She said, “Doesn't that make you just the tiniest bit jealous, Floramon?”

“What!? Of course not! Lopmon was like a little brother to me.” Floramon said.

“Hey! Don’t try and gaslight my partner, you slag!” Saki yelled.

“Rules for thee, but not for me, huh? Takuma, please tell me you don't plan on marrying this bitch.” Aoi said.

Saki was fed up with Aoi and smacked her across the face, leaving a distinct red mark on the older girl’s cheek. Everyone was at a loss for words as Saki ran off into the forest with tears in her eyes.

Ryo and Takuma gave Aoi a disapproving look and said, “You’re awful, Aoi,” before following Saki into the forest.

Takuma, Ryo, their partners, and Floramon were venturing through the forest. Takuma asked Ryo a question.

“Hey, Ryo, do you think I’m a good leader?”

“Where’s this coming from?”

“I’ve been thinking about what Shuuji said to me earlier today.” Takuma said, “He told me to 'stop trying to be the hero’ but I didn’t listen, and thanks to that, Lopmon’s gone and half the team hates each other.”

“Hey, don’t beat yourself up, mate. Give it some time; we’ll all be thick as thieves again before you know it!” Ryo said.

“Thanks, man. Still, I’m scared that Shuuji’s betrayal may cause a domino effect.” Takuma said.

“Guys! I found her!” Floramon hollered.

The boys ran over to Floramon and saw Saki punching a tree in frustration. She was punching so forcefully that her knuckles started to bleed, and parts of the tree were being chipped away too.

“Cuz?” Ryo called.

Saki momentarily stopped her assault on the tree to give Ryo her attention.

“What do you need?” Saki asked.

“We just wanted to see if you were okay.” Floramon said.

Saki smiled as she gave her partner a hug. Takuma looked at Saki’s hands and started to worry.

“Saki, your knuckles!”

“Takuma, sweetie, they’re fine. They just sting a little.” Saki replied.

“But those wounds could get infected, babe.” Takuma said, “Let's find some fresh water so we can wash them off.”

Takuma’s group arrived at a sizable river. Saki slowly dipped her hands into the rushing water, slightly wincing as the water made contact with her still bloody knuckles.

After Saki pulled her hands out of the river, Takuma and Ryo wrapped her wounds with leaves to act as makeshift bandages. Unbeknownst to the group, however, something was sleeping just under the water.

“Thanks for the help, you guys. I needed that.” Saki said.

“No problem, cuz.” Ryo smiled.

“Yeah! That’s what friends are for!” Agumon said as he stood atop a large, red leaf on the ground.

When Agumon sat on the leaf, the ground began to shake, and Seadramon suddenly emerged from the river, livid that his nap was ruined.

“Is it so much to ask for a man to get some shut-eye!?” Seadramon roared, “Hey, you’re the twerps that beat me up a few hours ago!”

Seadramon quickly ascended to the perfect level and wrapped his tail around Agumon. Agumon tried to digivolve, but thanks to his battle with Shuuji, he was too exhausted to even become Greymon.

“This ain’t good! Kunemon, do you and Floramon have enough energy to digivolve?” Ryo said.

Kunemon nodded with authority as she and Floramon digivolved. Ryo directed Flymon to distract Mega Seadramon as Saki had Kiwimon rescue Agumon. Flymon swarmed around Mega Seadramon’s head, effortlessly dodging the sea serpent’s attacks.

“Don’t worry, Agumon! We’ll have you free in no time!” Kiwimon said.

Kiwimon clamped her beak down on Mega Seadramon’s tail, causing it to uncurl, allowing Agumon to escape. Mega Seadramon took advantage of this and waved his tail around forcefully. All the abrupt movements caused Kiwimon to go flying onto the ground.

“One down, one to go!” Mega Seadramon boasted.

With his attention no longer divided, Mega Seadramon quickly began to overwhelm Flymon with a barrage of electric blasts fired from his horn. One of Mega Seadramon’s Thunder Javelins hit Flymon head-on, causing the insectoid Digimon to fall to the ground.

“Hey, don’t force yourself.” Ryo said as Flymon struggled to get up.

“Kee!” Flymon cried.

“But you’re hurt!” Ryo said, “What did I say about being reckless?”

Flymon ignored Ryo’s scolding; she slowly rose to her feet and “glared” at Mega Seadramon.

“Kee Kee?” Flymon asked Ryo.

“Of course I trust you! You’re my best friend! But…” Ryo said.

Flymon turned to her partner with a skeptical look on her face. Ryo sighed, knowing that Flymon’s mind was made up, and faced Mega Seadramon.

“I’ve had enough! You’re gonna pay for this!” Ryo said, “Flymon and I won’t let you hurt our friends anymore!”

Flymon was suddenly surrounded by a powerful aura similar to the one that enveloped Greymon when he reached the perfect level.

“Kee, Kee kee…! Megadramon!”

“I’ll make you pay for hurting my friends!” Megadramon roared as she soared towards Mega Seadramon.

“Did she just talk?” Takuma said.

Saki, Floramon, and Agumon answered with a nod and a dumbfounded expression on their faces. Ryo seemingly took no notice of Megadramon’s newfound speaking ability.

“Let him have it, Megadramon!” Ryo cheered.

Megadramon used her sharp claws to slash at Mega Seadramon, slicing the sea serpent to ribbons. Mega Seadramon retaliated by firing more Lightning Javelins at Ryo’s partner, which were effortlessly evaded.

“Finish it now!” Ryo called.

“Understood.” Megadramon said as she reared back and outstretched her arms.

“Genocide Attack!”

Countless organic missiles were fired from Megadramon’s arms, flying directly towards their target. Mega Seadramon tried to blow them back, but the missiles cut through his icy breath like a hot knife through butter.

When Megadramon’s missiles made contact, they exploded on impact with Mega Seadramon. The force of the explosions was so violent that when the smoke cleared, Mega Seadramon was vaporized, gone without a trace.

Megadramon reverted to her rookie form and jumped into Ryo’s arms.

“You were awesome out there, Kunemon!” Ryo said.

Kunemon smiled as she nuzzled into Ryo’s chest.

“So, are we just going to ignore that Megadramon was able to speak?” Saki said.

“Really? I guess I was so immersed in the fight that I didn't notice.” Ryo chuckled.

“How do you not notice someone who's been nonverbal the entire time you've known them suddenly start speaking in complete sentences?” Takuma asked, dumbfounded.

“Ah, hush.” Ryo scoffed playfully.

Saki giggled as she brought Ryo and Takuma in for a group hug. “Thanks for cheering me up, you guys.” She said.

“You’re welcome, sweetheart.” Takuma said while giving Saki a peck on the cheek.

“We’ll be right here if you need us.” Ryo said. “Think you could check up on the others to kill some time?”

“Good idea. Agumon, and I will see how Minoru is doing; see ya later!” Takuma said as he and Agumon left the riverside.

Chapter Text

“Oh, hello, Takuma!” Prof. Minase said.

“Hey, Professor. Agumon and I were looking for Minoru.” Takuma said, “What have you been up to?”

“I went exploring beyond the shopping district, but all I found were more ruins.” The professor said, “I wouldn't mind helping you two look for Minoru, though.”

Takuma, Agumon, and the professor made their way into the abandoned city, and after some time, they ran into Minoru.

“Hey, Minoru. Are you doing okay?” Takuma asked.

“Yeah, I'm okay.” Minoru said.

“Where’s Falcomon?” Agumon asked.

Minoru scoffed. “Who knows, who cares?”

“Come on, don’t be like that, dude." Takuma said.

Minoru rolled his eyes.

“Anyway, what have you been up to?” The professor asked.

“I ran into Kaito and Aoi earlier. Aoi was still upset about her fight with Saki, and Kaito was trying to calm her down.” Minoru said.

“Well, while I was exploring outside the city, I think I found out how Shuuji turned Lopmon into that…thing.” Akiharu said.

Takuma, Minoru, and Agumon stared at the professor attentively.

“It’s described in ancient mystical texts that Digimon are like mirrors. The forms that they take are a reflection of their partner’s feelings.”

“That’s why Lopmon digivolved into Wendigomon!” Takuma said.

Minoru’s eyes shot open as he had an epiphany: “So, are you saying that if Falcomon ever digivolved into something dangerous, then it would be because of me?”

The professor nodded slowly.

Minoru’s heart sank as he realized the mistake he just made and said, “Ah no, now I’ve done it! We’ve gotta find Falcomon so I can apologize for what I said.”

“It’s not too late. We’ll help you look for him!” Takuma said.

Several hours passed and there was no sign of Falcomon anywhere in the city, and to make matters even worse, the sun was beginning to set.

“Falcomon! Where are you?” Minoru called.

“We just want to talk!” Takuma shouted.

“And just what do you intend to talk to me about?” Falcomon said, emerging from behind a building.

Minoru was overjoyed to see his partner again. He ran over and gave Falcomon a big bear hug, tears of joy streaming down his face.

“Falcomon, buddy! I’m so sorry for what I said. I realized I was wrong when the professor told me that you might digivolve into something dangerous because of me.” Minoru cried.

Falcomon crossed his arms and said, “So you’re only apologizing in order to save yourself, huh?”

“What? No! I really am sorry; I was being stupid and didn’t realize that what I said hurt you.” Minoru said.

Deep down, Falcomon knew that Minoru’s apology was sincere, but he couldn't bring himself to look Minoru in the face after their falling out. Without a word, Falcomon ran off.

“Guess he’s still mad at you.” Agumon said, sadly.

“Nope, that's not it. Falcomon’s not the type to hold a grudge.” Minoru said, “Thanks for the help, you guys, but I’m going to talk to Falcomon by myself.”

“Good luck, dude!” Takuma said, "C'mon, Agumon, let's go check on the others.”

Some time later, Professor Minase entered a small, run-down apartment. He gazed at the furnishings and let out a sigh. The professor walked to the television set and picked up a framed photo of Haru and Miyuki.

“Feeling nostalgic, are we?” Haru said.

Professor Minase turned around to address the boy directly, “Why do you say that?” He asked.

“Don’t play dumb with me, old man.” Haru said, coldly.

“What are you talking about?”

“You may have fooled Takuma and the others, but your mind games won’t work on me!” Haru yelled, “You can deny it all you want, but I know the truth. You abandoned this world and left Miyuki to die!”

The professor stared at Haru in disbelief. “Miyuki?” he said.

“Yes, Miyuki Minase. And as long as there is breath in my body, I will protect her!” Haru declared.

Just then, a loud roar could be heard from the epicenter of the apartment complex.

“Miyuki!” Haru yelled as he quickly bolted out of the room, with the professor not far behind.

When Haru and Prof. Minase arrived, Metal Greymon and Megadramon were in a standoff with Garurumon, who had been holding Miyuki hostage.

“Let her go, Garurumon!” The professor yelled.

Garurumon glared at the elderly man and growled. “After all these years, you finally decided to come back, huh?”

Prof. Minase looked away in shame.

“And you! Tell me why you’re siding with this traitor!” Garurumon said to Haru.

“Look, I hate this geezer as much as you do, but my goal is to protect Miyuki.” Haru said, “And as long as you keep taking orders from Piedmon, I’ll have no choice but to oppose you.”

Suddenly, Arukenimon appeared behind Garurumon and said, “What’s the hold-up? All you had to do was grab the girl and get out.”

“Ugh… Leave me alone! I’m not in the mood for your nonsense!” Garurumon snarled.

“Neither am I. You keep the brats distracted while I bring the girl to Piedmon.” Arukenimon said.

“Who put you in charge?” Garurumon asked.

As the two villains argued, Kaito, Aoi, and Miu arrived on the scene with their Digimon, ready for a fight.

“We got here as soon as you called!” Kaito said.

“Hey, where are Minoru and Falcomon?” Aoi asked.

“He said he was going to talk to Falcomon, but that was a couple hours ago.” Takuma said.

While everyone else was fighting to rescue Miyuki, Minoru was chasing after Falcomon and trying to have a conversation with him.

“Falcomon, I know you well enough to know that you don’t hold grudges!” Minoru said, “Just stop running away from me so we can talk it out.”

Upon hearing Minoru’s words, Falcomon stopped in his tracks. “What do you want, Minoru?” he sighed.

“I want to be friends again, but the only way that can happen is if you meet me in the middle.” Minoru said.

Falcomon lifted his leg to take a step away from Minoru.

“Falcomon, please!” Minoru cried.

The avian Digimon planted his foot back on the ground and took a deep breath. Without warning, Falcomon turned around and wrapped Minoru in a tearful embrace.

“I’m so sorry for running away, Minoru.” Falcomon weeped.

“And I’m sorry for antagonizing you, Falcomon.” Minoru said.

As the two of them hugged, Minoru’s Digivice began to ring. Ryo was calling.

“Oi, Minoru! If you’ve patched things up with Falcomon, we could use your help!” Ryo said, “Miyuki’s this close to being kidnapped!”

Minoru rose to his feet, smirked at his partner, and said, “Ready to rock, Falcomon?”

“Ready to roll, Minoru!”

Back with the other Digidestined, to say that things were going well for them would be sugarcoating it. Aoi and Saki were still at each other's throats, and Kaito and Miu were still unable to communicate. This meant that the only ones who were able to stop Miyuki from getting kidnapped were a very fatigued Metal Greymon and Megadramon.

“We can’t keep this up; we barely had enough energy to Digivolve in the first place!” Metal Greymon said.

“Destruction Roar!”

Everyone looked up and saw Minoru and Diatrymon heroically standing atop a building.

“About time you two showed up!” Ryo said.

“Mind if we lend a hand?” Diatrymon asked.

“Please do,” Megadramon said.

Diatrymon leaped high into the air and began to glow as Minoru brandished his Digivice and said, “Now it’s time for a counter-attack!”

“Diatrymon, Super Digivolve to…! Tropiamon!”

Tropiamon cracked his knuckles as he stared down at Garurumon and Arukenimon.

“Minoru, do you really think Tropiamon can handle this on his own?” Takuma asked.

“I know he can handle it.” Minoru smiled. “Let ‘em have it, buddy!”

Tropiamon flew towards his two enemies, grabbed them by their heads, and soared high into the air. He threw Garurumon and Arukenimon onto the ground.

“Brace yourselves, guys!” Tropiamon yelled.

Metal Greymon and Megadramon shielded the rest of the group with their bodies while Tropiamon launched his attack.

“Petal Carnage!”

Tropiamon dispersed a large amount of explosive pollen at his opponents on the ground, trapping Arukenimon and Garurumon in the epicenter of the explosion. As the smoke settled, Miyuki’s would-be kidnappers lay defeated in a pile of debris.

“And that’s all she wrote!” Minoru quipped.

“Dammit! How are you all getting so strong so fast?” Garurumon roared.

“Because we have friends and you don’t, bitch!” Miu said.

“Language!” Kaito and Aoi said.

“Garurumon, why are you doing this?” Prof. Minase asked.

Garurumon stared at the professor and began to breathe heavily. He shook his head and leaped away, leaving Arukenimon alone.

“Hey! Where are you going?” Arukenimon growled. She then turned digidestined and said, “Mark my words, brats! The next time we meet, you will die!”

With that, Arukenimon retreated and followed Garurumon back to their base to the west.

“Now what?” Minoru said.

“Firstly, get down from that building before you hurt yourself!” Aoi said.

“Okay, fine.” Minoru sighed as he descended the building’s stairs.

As Minoru rejoined the other digidestined, they were discussing what their plan for tomorrow should be.

“He knows where the school is.” Takuma said, “What’s stopping him from killing us all in our sleep?”

“We could sleep in shifts,” Kaito suggested.

“I guess, but only three of our Digimon can reach the perfect level.” Ryo said.

“Whatcha guys talking about?” Minoru asked.

“Shuuji’s still on the loose, so we’re trying to decide whether or not we should go back to the school.” Takuma said.

“Well, we can’t just ditch the school! That’s where all the food is!” Minoru blurted out.

“But Shuuji might have tampered with the food.” Saki said.

Suddenly, an idea popped into Falcomon’s head: “How about we sleep in the apartments here for tonight, and for food, we could eat the fruits off the trees nearby?”

“Not a bad idea.” Minoru said.

Saki perked up and said, "Well, in that case, can I bunk with you, Takuma?”

“B-but, shouldn't the boys and girls be sleeping in different rooms?” A flustered Takuma stuttered.

“Please, baby? Pretty please?” Saki begged while fluttering her eyelashes.

“O-okay.”

“Yay! I’m so happy I have a big, strong man to protect me!” Saki said as she sneered at Aoi, “I couldn't imagine being old and alone my whole life.”

Aoi growled at Saki’s snide remark and hugged Kaito’s arm without thinking.

“If Saki’s going to bunk with her man, then I’ll have to bunk with mine.” Aoi huffed proudly. “Isn't that right, Kaito?”

Aoi looked up at her impromptu suitor, who stared back at her with his face flushed red. Realizing what she just did, Aoi’s face also turned a deep red.

“Wait, I-I mean!” Aoi stuttered.

“Anyway, do you guys think we should have a password system in place?” Takuma asked.

“What did you have in mind?” Minoru asked.

“How about if someone knocks on the door, the person on the inside will say ‘Digi-Digi’ and the person on the outside responds with ‘Mon-Mon’?” Miu suggested.

“That's not a bad idea, Miu.” Kaito said.

“Whatever.” Miu scoffed.

“It's getting late; let's call it a night.” Minoru yawned.

As the Digidestined went to their apartments, Takuma spoke to Floramon. He told her that he had a plan to get Saki, Aoi, Kaito, and Miu to be friends again.

“Are you sure that’ll work?” Floramon asked.

“It’s the only thing I could see working. I’ll explain it more in depth in the morning, though.” Takuma said.

Chapter Text

Early the next morning, Kaito was gazing out the window of his and Aoi’s apartment when he heard a knock at the door.

“Digi-Digi?” Kaito asked.

“Mon-Mon.” The voice replied.

Kaito opened the door and saw Takuma; he was accompanied by Agumon, Floramon, and Shakomon.

“What’s with the entourage?” Asked Kaito.

“They’re going to help Agumon and I gather food.” Takuma said, “But I came here to ask: Can I borrow Dracmon and Labramon?”

“Sure, let me wake them up.” Kaito replied.

After a few minutes, Dracmon and Labramon met with Takuma and the other Digimon in the hallway.

“Takuma, ar fi bine să ai un motiv bun să mă trezești așa devreme(Takuma, you better have a good reason for waking me up so early).” Dracmon grumbled.

“What did he say?” Agumon asked.

“Sorry guys, Dracmon exclusively speaks in his mother tongue when he’s drowsy. He’ll come around when he’s perked up.” Said Labramon.

Takuma took the Digimon to the forest outside the city to forage for food, during which Takuma spoke up.

“Can I talk to you guys about something?” Takuma asked.

“Sure! What did you want to talk to us about?” Shakomon replied.

“It’s about your partners. I’ve got a plan that might make them stop fighting.” Replied Takuma.

“Really? What is it?” Labramon asked excitedly.

“Last night, I found these old cable locks near the apartments. We’re going to use the cables to tie Kaito and Miu together and Aoi and Saki together.” Takuma said.

“Would that just make them fight more?” Dracmon said.

“I’m getting to that!” Takuma said, “The plan is that I’ll give you guys the combination codes; being physically bound to each other will force your partners to put their differences aside and work together.

“And when, and only when, your partners make up, you give them the codes so that they can free themselves.”

“I don’t know about this, Takuma.” Labramon said doubtfully.

“Ah, haide (come on), Labs. It’s worth a shot!” Dracmon said.

“If you say so.” Sighed Labramon.

About an hour later, Takuma and his group rendezvoused with the rest of the team while carrying an assortment of fruits for everyone to eat.

“Breakfast is ready!” Takuma beamed.

While the Digidestined ate their food, Takuma and Shakomon were able to coax Saki and Miu into position. They glanced at Agumon and secretly gave him a sly smile, signifying that it was time to move on to phase two of the plan. Agumon smiled back as he tapped his foot on the ground.

“That’s the signal!" Said Dracmon to Floramon.

The two Digimon quickly ran in between their respective pairs of Digidestined and began to tie their hands together tightly. Dracmon tied Kaito and Miu together, and Floramon tied Aoi and Saki together.

“Alright, should we head west now or later?” Asked Minoru.

“I say we should at least have some sort of strategy beforehand.” Said Aoi. She then felt her arm nearly being tugged out of its socket.

“Labramon, quit pulling on my arm so hard!” Said Aoi.

“That’s not me.” Replied Labramon.

Aoi looked at her suspended arm and saw that she and Saki had been chained together.

“What the hell?” Said Aoi, “Saki, what did you do!?”

“What makes you think I did this?” Asked Saki.

“Because you’re the type of bimbo that would pull some petty B.S. like this!” Yelled Aoi.

“Saki’s not the only one being a petty bitch, look.” Miu said as she showed off her arm tied to Kaito’s.

“If you're implying that I tied us both together, then you’ll be mistaken.” Kaito said flatly.

“He’s right! I tied the guys together.” Said Dracmon proudly.

“Why!?” Yelled Kaito and Miu.

“Because we’re tired of your constant, stupid bickering!” Said Floramon.

Saki was surprised. “Floramon, you’re in on this too?” She asked.

“Yeah. As a matter of fact, this was all Takuma’s idea.” Replied Floramon.

Kaito, Aoi, Miu, and Saki glared at Takuma, demanding an explanation for his antics.

“Don’t worry, I know how you can get untethered from each other.” Said Takuma nervously, “All you have to do is stop fighting, and your partners will give you the codes to free yourselves.”

As the Digidestined made their way westward, the tension in the air could be cut with a knife thanks to Aoi and Saki’s frequent jabs at one another as well as the copious amount of Dokugumon corpses littered everywhere.

“What the hell happened here?” Shuddered Ryo.

“All these corpses, who do you think did all this?” Asked Minoru.

“Guys! Look over there!” Said Kaito.

Everyone looked in the direction Kaito was pointing and saw Arukenimon in a standoff with that yellow fox Digimon from the waterway.

“Is that…Renamon?” Gasped the professor.

Renamon was panting heavily as he stared daggers at Arukenimon.

“Did he really take out all of these Dokugumon by himself?” Thought Takuma.

“Whatever you and your ilk are planning on doing with Miyuki, I won’t allow it!” Snarled Renamon.

Renamon lunged towards Arukenimon, who retaliated by firing her razor-sharp spider webs at him, knocking him back. Takuma and the others quickly jumped in to assist Renamon.

“Hey, Renamon! Fall back; we’ll take it from here!” Said Takuma.

“This is none of your concern!” Snapped Renamon, “It’s my job to protect Miyuki; no one else’s!”

“And how do you expect to do that if you’re dead?” Asked Miu.

Renamon let out a reluctant sigh as Agumon, Falcomon, Kunemon, Dracmon, and Sakomon Digivolved into their Champion forms.

“I’ve had enough! The maiden will be free for me to take after I kill you.” Hissed Arukenimon.

Despite being vastly outnumbered, Arukenimon was able to hold her own against the five champion-level Digimon. Especially since Sangloupmon and Shellmon’s partners were more focused on fighting with each other.

“Kaito, why do you have to be so annoying?” Growled Miu, “It’s bad enough that you’re always in my business, and now you told Takuma to have Dracmon tie us together!”

“What makes you think I’m the one behind all of this? Did you not hear Floramon say this was solely Takuma’s plan?” Hissed Kaito.

As Kaito and Miu continued to argue with each other, Sangloupmon and Shellmon decided that enough was enough and snapped at their human partners.

“Both of you shut up!” Roared Sangloupmon.

“We tied you two together so you two would learn to get along!” Said Shellmon, “The more you refuse to cooperate, the harder it will be for you to get back home.”

The Shinonome siblings looked each other in the eyes and sighed.

“I’m sorry for being so overbearing.” Said Kaito.

“And I’m sorry for being such a shithead to you.” Replied Miu.

“Now let’s leave all this petty shit in the past and keep moving forward!” Kaito and Miu declared.

Sangloupmon and Shellmon smiled at their partners finally being on good terms again and lunged towards Arukenimon with their bodies glowing brightly.

“Sangloupmon, Super Evolvează în (Super Evolves into)…! Myotismon!”

“Shellmon, Super Digivolve to…! Mermaimon!”

Arukenimon was caught off guard, allowing the two perfect-levels to land a surprise attack that knocked Arukenimon away.

“Fulgerul purpuriu (Crimson Lightning)!”

Myotismon summoned a whip made from pure red energy and used it to lasso Arukenimon, repeatedly slamming her into the ground before tossing her into the air, where Mermaimon was waiting to deal the finishing blow.

“Northern Cross Bomber!”

Mermaimon spun her golden anchor and flung it at Arukenimon, sending the spider lady crashing into the ground with a mighty thud.

“We did it!” Cheered Miu.

“Alright, Myotismon. What’s the code?” Asked Kaito.

“What code?” Said Myotismon.

“The code to the combination lock!” Shouted Miu and Kaito.

“You forgot the code, didn’t you?” Sighed Mermaimon.

Myotismon giggled innocently as Miu, Kaito, and Mermaimon glared at him.

“Mermaimon, please tell me you know the code.” Sighed Miu.

“Unfortunately, I don’t.” Said Mermaimon, “But I do know a way for you two to get unstuck.”

She grabbed her anchor and used its sharp edges to cut the cable, tethering Kaito and Miu together.

“Free at last!” Kaito said in relief.

As the Digidestined celebrated their victory, Arukenimon slowly sat up from the crater she had made and saw a cloaked figure appear from a dark portal that materialized in front of her, filling her with dread.

“You have failed me for the last time, Arukenimon!” Said the cloaked figure.

“Please, master Piedmon, just give me one more chance! I promise I won’t let you down again!” Begged Arukenimon.

“I’ve given you far too many chances! My patience has worn thin.” Said Piedmon while removing his cloak, “Your punishment has been delayed long enough!”

Piedmon unsheathed the swords on his back, and with a wave of his hand, he sent them flying towards Arukenimon, stabbing her from all directions. Arukenimon’s lifeless body fell to the ground as Piedmon turned his attention towards Renamon and Miyuki.

“You’re next.” Said Piedmon coldly.

Within a fraction of a second, Renamon was knocked out cold, allowing Piedmon to snatch Miyuki and retreat through another dark corridor.

“Get back here, you bastard!” Shouted Kaito.

“Kaito, don't,” said Dracmon.

“Huh?” Said Kaito.

“That guy’s way too strong.” Said Agumon, “We’re dead meat if we try to fight him.”

“I don't care how strong he is!” Growled Renamon: “I'm going to make sure Miyuki is safe if it's the last thing I do!”

And with a puff of smoke, Renamon was gone.

“He’s right, we can’t just leave Miyuki in the hands of the enemy because they’d be ‘too hard to defeat.’” Said Takuma, “Miyuki’s our friend, and friends help each other when they're at their lowest!”

“That settles it, then. Let’s go save Miyuki!” Declared Ryo.

As the Digidestend began their trek towards the villain’s base of operations, Saki couldn't help but notice something.

“Hey, has anyone seen Haru?”

“Oh, wow, that’s surprising. The blonde bitch is actually worried about someone other than herself.” Said Aoi sarcastically.

“Oh, sod off, you cunt!” Snapped Saki.

“Don't start, you two.” Sighed Kaito and Takuma.

Chapter Text

The Digidestined arrived at a cliff overlooking a large factory, the setting for the toughest battle they would ever fight thus far.

“What’s the plan, Takuma?” Asked Minoru.

“It would be stupid of us to barge in through the front, so I was thinking we should find a side entrance.” Said Takuma.

“I suggest that we split into four groups of two.” Said Prof. Minase.

“In that case, Miu and I will search around the manufacturing site.” Said Kaito.

“And I’ll keep an eye on Minoru to make sure he doesn't get himself killed.” Quipped Ryo.

“I’ll go with the professor since he doesn't have a Digimon.” Said Takuma.

“Wait! Who am I going to be partnered with?” Asked Saki as she caught her tied-up arm in her peripheral vision. “Oh yeah, I forgot you were here.” She grumbled.

“What’s that supposed to mean?” Hissed Aoi.

Aoi and Saki began to argue again as the rest of the group made their way toward the factory. While Takuma and the professor were patrolling the factory’s perimeter, Agumon noticed that Prof. Minase was in deep thought.

“Whatcha thinking about, professor?” Asked Agumon.

“Oh, well, I spoke with Haru yesterday, and when he mentioned his desire to protect Miyuki, it jogged a few memories of mine.” Said Prof. Minase.

“What kind of memories?” Asked Takuma.

“This isn't the first time I’ve been to this world. When I was about Miu’s age, my sister and I were sent here and met our own Digimon partners.” Explained the professor.

“You're a Digidestined!?” Takuma and Agumon said.

“I suppose so.” Replied the professor.

“Do you remember how you and your sister got back home?” Asked Takuma.

Prof. Minase hung his head and said, “We didn't go back home, but I did.”

Takuma and Agumon were confused. “Why did your sister want to stay here and not go back home?” Takuma asked.

“We were attacked by a horde of shadowy creatures, and our Digimon were outnumbered, so my sister opened a portal and pushed me through.” Said the professor, “As I was being dragged through, I saw my sister being swallowed by dozens of shadowy hands.”

“Losing a family member.” Sighed Agumon: “I think an old friend of mine went through the same thing.”

“If I may ask, Professor, what was your sister’s name?” Said Takuma.

“Miyuki Minase.” Replied the professor.

Takuma and Agumon were even more confused.

“Miyuki, as in, the girl we’re trying to save, Miyuki?” Asked Agumon.

“How can Miyuki be your sister if you’re elderly and she’s around Miu’s age?” Asked Takuma.

“I was just as puzzled as you both at first.” Prof. Minase said, “But take a look at this. Miyuki and I took this photo the same day we were sent to this world 50 years ago.”

The professor showed Takuma and Agumon an old photo he was keeping in his blazer’s pocket.

“The boy in this picture is me, and as you can see, Miyuki doesn't look a day older than she did in this photo.” Said Prof. Minase.

“So if you’re Miyuki’s brother, then who’s the kid that's always by her side?” Said Takuma.

“Get out of my way!” Yelled a voice.

“That sounded like Haru! And it came from inside the factory!” Said Takuma.

The group followed Haru’s voice into the factory. When they arrived, they saw Haru, Aoi, and Saki confronting Garurumon.

“Move aside, Garurumon! I have to save Miyuki!” Yelled Haru.

Aoi grabbed Haru’s shoulder and pulled him away from Garurumon. “Don’t be stupid, Haru. There’s no way you can save Miyuki by yourself!” She said, “Let us help you.”

“And why should I? You’re the ones who let her get captured in the first place, thanks to your obnoxious fighting!” Said Haru.

“Don’t get mad at me; Saki’s the one that started it!” Rebutted Aoi.

“Can you go five minutes without insulting me!?” Asked Saki.

“What? You mean telling the truth?” Replied Aoi.

“Both of you, shut up! This is exactly what I’m talking about!” Screamed Haru.

“You’re still obsessed with that human girl?” Scoffed Garurumon.

“Like you’d ever understand.” Said Haru.

“You say that like I want to understand.” Said Garurumon, “You saw how I was betrayed, and you still expect me to trust these humans?”

“Miyuki is nothing like the cold-hearted man who betrayed you!” Exclaimed Haru.

“And what has that girl done for you, huh? She hasn’t returned any of your kindness, and all you’ve earned is pain and suffering!” Roared Garurumon.

“I could say the same thing about you and The Master!” Snapped Haru.

“Shut up!” Roared Garurumon as he lunged towards Haru.

Dobermon and Kiwimon jumped in front of Haru, protecting him from Garurumon’s attack.

“Get back, Haru! Aoi and Saki will handle it!” Said the professor.

“And what are they going to do? Bicker at him?” Scoffed Haru.

As if on cue, Aoi and Saki began to argue again. Takuma was at his breaking point and got in between the two girls.

“Why can't you two just forgive each other!?” Yelled Takuma.

“You want me to forgive her!?” Aoi and Saki asked.

“Yes! That's why I had you two tied together in the first place!” Yelled Takuma.

“But Aoi’s been calling me out of my name ever since we escaped the waterway.” Said Saki.

“Only because you've been making me out to be the antichrist!” Snapped Aoi.

“The way I see it, she's the one in the wrong here!” The two girls exclaimed.

“Both of you are in the wrong!” Takuma said, “Aoi, you're wrong for hurling insults at Saki. And Saki, you're wrong for blaming Aoi for something out of her control.”

“But, Lopmon…” Muttered Saki.

“I miss Lopmon too, sweetie, but pointing the finger and making false accusations isn't going to bring him back.” Said Takuma softly.

Saki hung her head and began to cry. “I’m sorry for such a twat to you, Aoi.” She weeped.

“And I’m sorry for calling you all of those hurtful things, Saki.” Said Aoi.

Aoi gave Saki a hug. The girls turned to their partners, who were fighting Garurumon alongside Greymon.

“Dobermon!” Called Aoi.

“Kiwimon!” Called Saki.

“Let’s show Garurumon what best friends can do together!” Exclaimed the two girls.

Aoi and Saki’s digivices began to shine as Dobermon and Kiwimon were engulfed in a bright light.

“Dobermon, Super Digivolve to…! Cerberusmon!”

“Kiwimon, Super Digivolve to…! Sirenmon!”

“Symphony No. 1, Polyphony!”

Sirenmon began to sing in a high soprano, and the notes of the melody resonated throughout the whole area. Her song pierced Garurumon’s heart, paralyzing him.

“Emerald Blaze!”

Cerberusmon shot a wave of green fire from her mouth, aimed at the obsidian wolf. The attack makes direct contact and defeats Garurumon.

“Dammit! Why can’t I defeat you?” Hissed Garurumon.

“Because you’re lying to yourself.” Said Aoi.

“What makes you say that?” Growled Garurumon.

“We’ve seen how you glare at the professor. You make yourself look intimidating, but your eyes say that you’re on the verge of tears.” Answered Saki.

“SHUT UP!” Garurumon yelled, “That bastard betrayed me! He abandoned me and left me alone.”

“That’s not true! Miyuki sent the professor back to earth to protect him.” Takuma said, “He never wanted to leave you behind.”

Garurumon growled and ran off deeper into the factory, tears streaming down his face. Cerberusmon and Sirenmon reverted to their rookie forms and gave Saki and Aoi the combination to undo the lock connecting them.

“Do you think Garurumon will ever find peace?” Saki asked Aoi.

“Give it time.” Replied Aoi while massaging her wrist.

Just then, the rest of the Digidestined arrived at the scene, as they heard a fight taking place.

“Aw man! Don't tell me the fight’s already over!” Sighed Minoru.

“Are you guys okay?” Asked Kaito.

“We’re okay, but Haru’s out cold.” Said Takuma.

Everyone turned and saw Haru lying unconscious on the ground.

“Is he okay?” Asked Miu.

“It looks like he overexerted himself and passed out.” Said the professor.

“We should probably let him rest here.” Said Takuma.

“Is it safe to leave him here?” Asked Aoi.

“Don’t worry. There aren't any enemies nearby, and once we save Miyuki, we’ll come back and pick him up.” Replied Kaito.

“Speaking of which, we should probably get around to doing that. It’s already sundown.” Said Ryo.

Everyone nodded as they ventured into the center of the factory.

“Don’t worry, Miyuki. We’ll save you.” Said the professor.

Chapter Text

The Digidestined arrived at the factory’s center. The chamber was bathed in an eerie red glow coming from a large generator, and in front of it was an altar.

“What is this place?” Said Minoru.

“Guys! Look over there!” Agumon said while pointing at the altar.

Everyone looked ahead and saw Miyuki lying motionless on the altar’s table with her hands and feet tied to it.

“The sacrificial ceremony is underway. I will not have any interference!” Said Piedmon as he descended from the roof of the factory.

“Whatever you’re planning on doing with Miyuki, you can forget about it!” Takuma proclaimed, “Give her back, now!”

“And what are you going to do if I don’t?” Piedmon asked, “I’m stronger than all of you combined.”

“Maybe so, but that doesn't mean we’re going to give up!” Said Kaito.

“Why do you even want to sacrifice Miyuki in the first place?” Asked Miu.

“To cleanse the impurities that have been spread across this land.” Piedmon said, “And I see no better place to start than with all of you!”

Piedmon prepares to attack with Trump Sword, but it's interrupted by Dracmon's Sucker Punch followed by Labramon’s Fake Out, causing Piedmon to flinch and allowing the partner Digimon to Digivole to the perfect level.

Piedmon then uses Trick Room to give himself a speed advantage. Tropiamon uses Poison Jab, but Piedmon effortlessly dodges and counters with a roundhouse kick. Mermaimon and Megadramon try to restrain Piedmon with Anchor Shot and Wrap, respectively, but he overpowers the two of them and sends them flying.

Piedmon then uses Swords Dance to power up and lunges at Sirenmon with a flurry of punches and kicks. Sirenmon is barely able to dodge Piedmon’s attacks, and she even deflects some of them with Leaf Blade. Eventually, one of Piedmon’s attacks connects, knocking Sirenmon into the air.

Piedmon was about to launch a Shadow Ball, but Myotismon used Crimson Lightning to grab his arm, allowing Cerberusmon to land a direct Emerald Blaze.

“This is bad.” Takuma said, “Piedmon’s way too fast.”

“It’s because of Trick Room.” Metal Greymon said, “It creates a bizarre area where the slower you are, the faster you’ll move.”

“So all we have to do is lure Piedmon outside of the Trick Room.” Said Minoru.

“But how do we go about doing that?” Asked Ryo.

As the Digidestined developed a strategy, their Digimon continued to battle Piedmon. He was easily dodging their attacks while retaliating with his own. Megadramon backed away from the fight, used Coil to boost her accuracy, and fired Dragon Pulse at Piedmon, hitting him directly for massive damage.

While this was happening, Prof. Minase was trying to untie Miyuki from the altar.

“Oh no, you don’t! I won’t allow you to touch the maiden!” Piedmon said as he raced towards the altar, “Shadow Ball!”

As the attack flew towards the altar, Prof. Minase and the Digidestined shut their eyes, expecting the worst when...

“Howling Blaster!”

A mass of icy blue flames collided with Shadow Ball and destroyed it.

“Garurumon, you saved me.” Said the professor in shock.

“So, you’re a goody two-shoes now?” Mocked Piedmon.

“Don’t get it twisted! I’m fighting you because I want to finish off this old geezer.” Said Garurumon.

"Sure, ya do.” Said Saki sarcastically.

“Shut up!” Hissed Garurumon.

“Well, hero or not, your fate remains the same.” Said Piedmon coldly, “All those who stand in the way of my master’s ambitions shall be destroyed!”

Piedmon used Swords Dance once again to power up and used Trump Sword to force the partner Digimon back.

Prof. Minase let out a sigh and turned to Garurumon. “Garurumon, I know you’re angry with me, but just once; I need you to lend me your strength one more time, please!” He said.

When Garurumon heard Akiharu’s heartfelt plea, he wanted nothing more than to burst into tears and embrace his old friend. The Digidestined were right, but he just didn't want to admit it.

“Fine! But only this one time, you hear me?” Said Garurumon.

“Thank you.” Smiled the professor, “Garurumon! My Digimon partner! Let the bond that we shared be rekindled once more!”

Akiharu rolled up his right hand sleeve to reveal what appeared to be an older Digivice model in a blue colorway. Its screen began to flicker as Garurumon leaped into the air as his body began to shine.

“Garurumon, Super Digivolve to…! Raihimon!”

Raihimon landed in front of Piedmon, ready to fight. Piedmon uses Shadow Ball, but Raihimon uses Psychic to redirect it. Raihimon then lands Signal Beam, which confuses Piedmon, leaving him open to attack.

The Digidestined command their Digimon to attack Piedmon one after another. Metal Greymon uses Dragon Breath, Tropiamon uses Poison Jab, Cerberusmon uses Shadow Claw, Megadramon uses Dragon Pulse, Sirenmon uses Boomburst, Myotismon uses Crimson Lightning, and Mermaimon uses Aqua Jet.

Piedmon fell to his knees in defeat, causing the Trick Room to disperse. The partner Digimon returned to their rookie forms and ran to the Digidestined with glee.

“We did it! We won!” Cheered Miu, “You were awesome out there, Shakomon!”

“Garurumon! You traitor! You dare defy the Master’s wishes!?” Growled Piedmon.

“Heh! To be honest, I don’t think I even believed in the Master’s cause to begin with.” Scoffed Garurumon.

Just then, a thought crossed Aoi’s mind: “Wait a second. If Piedmon isn’t the Master, then who or what is it?”

“You expect me to answer your questions? Hah!” Piedmon said, “You ignorant fools understand nothing!”

As Piedmon approached the altar, a huge pressure filled the air, and a thick fog blanketed the area.

“Crap, the fog’s rolling in! We gotta get outta here!” Exclaimed Minoru.

“Hang on, Minoru! Miyuki’s still on the altar!” Said Aoi.

A malicious smile creeped onto Piedmon’s face as he proceeded with the ritual: “Oh, great and mighty Master, accept that which we offer you, the sacrifice upon this altar! This child!” He said.

“No!” Yelled Takuma.

“Takuma!? What are you doing!?” Asked Aoi.

“I’m not going to stand idly by as we lose another one of our friends!” Takuma said, “Agumon?”

“I’m with you, Takuma!” Agumon proclaimed.

“Hold on, dude! Are you really gonna dive into the fog?” Asked Minoru.

“Please, Takuma! I already lost Lopmon; I can’t lose you too!” Cried Saki.

“Saki, if I don’t do this, Haru will lose his sister.” Said Takuma.

“But Miyuki is my responsibility, not yours!” Said the professor.

“Miyuki needs help, and a good leader helps his teammates in need.” Said Takuma.

Takuma and Agumon sprinted towards the altar as their friends begged and pleaded for them to stop.

“You dumbass! You’re going to get yourself killed! Stop!” Yelled Miu.

“Takuma! Get back here!” Said Kaito.

Ryo put a hand on Kaito’s shoulder and shook his head. “His mind’s made up. He’s not going to listen.”

Takuma turned to the group and addressed Aoi, “Aoi! You’re in charge until I get back, okay?” He said.

“O-Okay.” Said a teary-eyed Aoi.

“Good. Now get everyone to safety!” Said Takuma as he continued to run towards the altar.

As Aoi led the group out of the factory, Prof. Minase turned around and saw Takuma and Agumon approaching Piedmon at the altar, being enveloped by a bright light. The professor shielded his eyes, and when he opened them, Takuma, Agumon Piedmon, and Miyuki were gone.