Returning through the portal with Kari, Salamon and Agumon. Tai was greeted by everyone in his office. Meiko rushed over and hugged him and Agumon tight while Meicoomon bounced up into their arms.
“Tai, you ok?” She asked. 
“I’m alright.” He said, kissing her neck. 
“You ok, Agumon?” Meicoomon questioned as well, as Agumon and Meicoomon leapt down to the ground. 
“Yeah, but I’m starving. Why don’t we go grab something to eat?” He suggested. Meicoomon just let a little giggle escape and kissed his nose. 
“I’ll get you a snack.” She offered, rushing off toward the fridges. Matt came over with Gabumon beside him and put a hand on Tai’s shoulder. 
“Good to see you’re all in one piece.” 
“Yeah, thanks Matt.” He nodded, patting Matt’s shoulder. Turning his attention to Joe who was passing a pen light over Willis’s eyes. Gomamon was assisting Joe in the examination, perched on his shoulder as Tai came over and asked. “How’s our patient doc?” 
“He’s concussed, a nasty one too. I’m gonna monitor him overnight, but after that, we should probably send him back home to the states.” Joe answered. Terriermon and Lopmon jumped to either side of Willis and took his hands. 
“You feeling any better Willis?” Terriermon asked. 
“I. Um..” He scratched his head. “So, wait. What happened exactly?” He asked turning to Tai. 
“Banged your head inside Imperialdramon during the fight. So did I, but, I walked away with scratches.” 
“Inside. Imperialdramon? When was that?” Willis asked. Kari, T.K, Meiko and Sora came over to listen in, while Izzy carried on working on damage control. Joe snagged Willis’s attention and asked. 
“What’s the last thing you remember?” 
“Um.” Willis closed his eyes, groaning from the pain in his head. “We uh, had the building shake. From something. And, I saw Patamon and Gatomon digivolve but. It’s all white after that.” He explained. 
“Poor guy.” Joe sympathized, patting his shoulder. “I’m going to get you some ice, lay down if you need to, and if you feel sick let me know. Whatever you do, do not fall asleep.” He cautioned. 
“Ok.” Willis complied, lying down as Terriermon and Lopmon cuddled up with him. 
“Only 23 injured in the events here in Tokyo.” Izzy said, standing up from the desk. “24 if you count Willis here. No one’s seriously hurt, but five people are in hospital for observation.” 
“On the other hand guys.” Yolei slowly walked over with Hawkmon at her side, nodding off toward Mimi who was still crying near the wall. “Russell King has died. Carlo made it to hospital and he’s in fair shape physically but. He’s extremely upset that Fanbeemon is gone.” Izzy slowly found his way over to Mimi and took her hand. 
“Izzy, please.” She shook her head. 
“It’s ok Mimi, I’m here.” He said, taking her into his arms. “I’m so sorry.” He said softly. Mimi carried on crying into his shoulder. 
“We heard about Jesmon.” Matt spoke up. “Gotta admit, I feel like a jerk for being so harsh with him in the past now.” 
“Don’t say that Matt.” Gabumon interjected. “He knew your heart was always in the right place.” 
“I think today just took it outta us.” Gomamon joined in. 
“I agree.” Tentomon said, landing beside Gomamon. “We knew today would be tough but.” 
“Not this tough.” Biyomon answered. 
“We gotta take a little time.” Palmon said, walking over to Mimi. “We all need some rest and a chance to regroup.”
“Where’s Davis, and Ken?” Tai asked. 
“Cody took them to the cafeteria. They were hoping to recharge Veemon and Wormmon back up to get their rings on.” Hawkmon replied. 
“Alright. Why don’t we all call it a day?” Tai suggested. “Take our digimon home and have some quiet time. We’ll rest up and regroup soon.” 
“Got a plan, Tai?” T.K asked, holding Patamon in his arms. 
“Yeah.” Tai nodded. “We’ll meet up again on Wednesday. Izzy, can we meet at your place?” 
“My apartment? Sure, but why there?” He asked. 
“Less formal and more relaxed than here. Everyone bring your digivices, stone and active. We can have some dinner and head out after.” Tai answered, looking back to the group.
“Head out, where?” Sora questioned. 
“To find Homeostasis, and give it our final offer.” 

Deep inside the heart of the digital world, within the Server Tree, the structure of which was composed of and resided King Drasil. Inside in a vast chamber, decorated with red pyres and lanterns along with corridors into the deeper recesses of the tree, Dorumon arrived and collapsed to his knees. Gasping as the pain from his injuries began to set in, Dark Gennai appeared, and behind him upon the wall, the massive form of King Drasil began to form. A near monolithic figure, shrouded in darkness save for eerie red glow of his eyes. 
“Master. I’ve.. I’ve returned, victorious.” Dorumon stated. 
“Have you now?” The thunderous voice spoke. 
“Megaseadramon is slain. The truce...” Dorumon gasped for a moment. “The truce served its purpose, and once my wounds are healed, I will.. I will be ready to slay the digi-destined at your command.” 
“So eager, for someone so frail.” Dark Gennai spoke, shaking his head. “But surly you didn’t think us blind to what happened during the fight, did you?” 
“I fought, as you commanded master. To aid them until the Primal digimon were slain.” Dorumon grunted and fell forward. Dark Gennai eased Dorumon to his feet as he took a few breaths. “I will, be ready, for our next mission master.” 
“I bore witness to the events upon the battlefield, Dorumon. I saw you and Jesmon fight side by side, and witnessed the sacrifice of that fool to defeat him. Yet you come before me, claiming victory?” King Drasil spoke. 
“It was a victory.” Dorumon countered. “Jesmon is dead. Homeostasis is vulnerable. The digi-destined will soon be powerless.” 
“Including Tai?” King Drasil questioned. Dorumon felt a little caught off guard, but shook his head. 
“The human means nothing to me, master. I live to serve-“ 
“Silence!” King Drasil shouted, levitating Dorumon into the air he slammed him against the wall as crimson energy began crushing him against it. “I’m not such a fool as to not see what was happening. Tasting human food, your trust in the digi-destined leader, weeping in his arms like a babe! I molded you into a weapon of perfection, how could you become so weak!?” 
“Master! Please! I’ve always been loyal to you!” Dorumon cried out. 
“It is only because of that, that I do not break you here and now. But your stink of human compassion defiles my chamber.” King Drasil bellowed, tossing Dorumon to the ground. Crying out in pain he could barely lift himself up. 
“Master, I need healing. Please, cure me so that I may prove my loyalty to you.” Dorumon pleaded. 
“You’re continued existence is my gift to you. Heal your own wounds, or let the earth claim you for your weakness. There are always knights in waiting for me to awaken, prove your worth, or fall into the darkness.” King Drasil ordered as he vanished from sight. 
“Well, orders are orders.” Dark Gennai strolled away. “Might want to rest up, I’m sure the master will be expecting Tai’s head as a tribute upon your next venture.” 
“Gennai, help me to my chamber.” Dorumon requested. 
“Nope.” He playfully turned around. “Come on Dorumon, they’re just scratches and scrapes right? Walk it off, otherwise, back to Primary Village for you!” 
“Grr.” Dorumon growled, steadily finding his feet. 

Dorumon staggered into his chamber. A small stack of hay nestled in to the corner along with a sink to wash or drink from. His wounds were aching; he was still bleeding and falling into the hay he could barely summon the strength to stand again. All he could think of, was the moment Jesmon sacrificed himself to destroy Megaseadramon. How he saved him from the blast that would have surely destroyed him, and how King Drasil showed little care for his condition upon arriving home within the tree.
“I worry no one is watching your back.” Dorumon suddenly recalled his brother saying. Gasping, he clenched the sphere his brother gave him. He knew it could take him anywhere he wanted to go, but didn’t know who to turn to. His mind raced through familiar faces, until at last, Tai’s came to mind. The only human to have cared for him, and one he knew had connections to those who might be able to heal his wounds. With death creeping up on him, Dorumon focused on the sphere, holding the memory of Tai and suddenly vanished. 
Tai, Meiko and their digimon were the only ones left at the office. Izzy had left most of his setup there, along with no shortage of an assorted mess of bandages, warmed ice packs and empty bottles. Tai came around his desk and picked up the phone and saw a message from Sora. 
“Just checking in, are you guys ok? Remember we’re all here if you need us.” Tai read aloud. “Heh, the mother hen strikes again.” 
“You get one from Sora too?” Meiko giggled. 
“Yeah, you heading home?” Tai asked. 
“Mmhmm. My place this time. I could really use a nice long bath and a good night’s sleep.” She waved off. 
“My door’s always open.” Tai suggested. Meiko let Meicoomon down, walked over to Tai and took him in for a hug. Meicoomon surprisingly did the same for Agumon. 
“I’m glad it is.” She said, after a quick embrace she snuck in a quick kiss and rubbed her forehead on his. “You staying?” 
“Just to clean up. You can go ahead. Coffee again tomorrow?” He offered. 
“Mmm, I love our morning breakfasts.” She smiled, stealing another kiss. 
“Hey Agumon.” Meicoomon spoke up, pulling herself back for a moment. “Can I ask you something?” 
“Sure, ask away.” 
“Can I have a kiss goodnight?” She smiled, tipping her head. 
“Oh.” Agumon was a little surprised but then quickly smiled. “Meicoomon, you can have a kiss for whatever you like.” He answered, and pulled her in for a good long one. After which she blushed, holding her cheeks as her ears twitched. 
“Wow, I’ll have more of those for sure!”
“You two are too cute for words.” Tai complimented. “Hey Agumon, why don’t you and Meicoomon-“ Tai tried to say, but was cut off by a sphere of light appearing in the room. As it flashed open, Dorumon dropped from it, landing on the couch in his office crying out in pain as he did. “Dorumon!” He shouted. Releasing Meiko and joined by Agumon he rushed for the couch. “Oh no, this looks bad.” 
“Tai.” Dorumon whimpered. “I’m dying. If you know how to stop this, please.” He begged. Tai gasped as Meiko and Meicoomon rushed to join him.
“Dorumon!?” Meiko asked, bewildered by his condition. “Oh that looks really bad.”  
“We gotta get him to Joe, now!” Tai stated, scooping him up. “Call him up, I’ll get us a ride.” 

At the hospital, Joe had him bandaged up and on every piece of equipment to monitor him. Dorumon was struggling to breath, but Tai, Agumon, Meiko and Meicoomon stayed nearby, with Tai in particular holding Dorumon’s hand. Joe walked in with Gomamon on his shoulder and tablet in hand and shook his head. 
“How is he?” Tai asked. 
“Well, I’m pretty sure that fight with Megaseadramon blew him apart. There’s so many lacerations and broken bones. It’s a wonder he was able to walk anywhere. De-digivolving likely helped, but not much.” Joe explained. “Strangely enough, I’ve been getting really good at digimon physiology lately. I just wish it was for a different reason than this.” 
“Is he, gonna make it?” 
“More than likely, yeah.” Gomamon answered for him. “We digimon heal up fast, even from serious injuries like this. But you know, that’s not the biggest problem right now. The real concern is what happens next.”  
“Like how if he recovers, we can’t beat him.” Agumon stated.
“Nailed it, Agumon.” Joe nodded. 
“Gennai and I have talked about that. We’ll address it as best we can, but thanks Joe, you too Gomamon.” 
“I’m gonna do a few rounds before heading home.” Joe stated, heading toward the door. “Thankfully after such a frantic day, they aren’t asking me to work a full shift tonight.” He chuckled. “Good night Tai.” 
“Night Tai, night Agumon!” 
“Night!” They both answered back. 
“Tai.” Dorumon gasped. 
“Yeah, what’s up Dorumon?” 
“Will I survive, or not?” He questioned. 
“Yeah, we got to you in time.” Tai assured him. 
“Not that you deserve our help but, at least this time, you were fighting on our side.” Agumon chipped in. 
“Agumon, take it easy on him. I know we’ve had serious issues with him in the past but, well. I mean look at him.” Tai stated. 
“Hmmm.” Agumon thought for a moment. “Well, so long as you don’t mean any harm to Tai or anyone I care about, I’ll let it pass for now.” 
“I should go.” Meiko stated, rising up from the chair. “Tai, are you going to stay here?” 
“Yeah, I’ll watch over Dorumon for now. Sorry, looks like I’m missing coffee tomorrow.” He half smiled. 
“Don’t think you’re off that easy.” She fired one right back, leaning in for a quick kiss. “I’ll stop by tomorrow with some coffee and food, for both of you, of course.” 
“You’re the best.” He chuckled. 
“Muah!” Meicoomon got another kiss in on Agumon before leaping up into Meiko’s arms. 
“Night Tai, night Agumon!” Meiko waved, 
“Night Agumon!” Meicoomon waved. 
“Good night!” They said together, as Joe, Meiko and Meicoomon departed. 
“Why aren’t you leaving with your mate?” Dorumon spoke up in a rather raspy and worn out voice. 
“Huh? Oh, she just wanted to get some sleep in her own bed for once. We’ve all been in crisis mode for a while; it’s good to get some rest right now.” Tai explained. 
“But why do you stay with me?” He insisted. 
“You’re hurt. And you helped us out in a big way over the last few days. I guess I feel a little obligated to make sure you pull through.” Tai rationalized. 
“You know what will happen once I recover though, don’t you?” Dorumon cautioned. 
“What exactly do you plan to do, once you recover?” Agumon cut in, looming over Dorumon in his bed. Dorumon huffed and slowly rolled over, facing away from Tai and Agumon. 
“I have no plan, for now.” 
“Then I don’t have to destroy you, for now.” Agumon warned, leaping back into Tai’s arms. Dorumon’s first thought was to quip back at Agumon, but decided to remain silent. After all, this was his only shot at recovery, and decided it was best to remain quiet. 

Tai stayed at Dorumon’s bedside, holding Agumon in his lap. As the night grew long, Dorumon tossed and turned in his sleep. A nightmare flashing through his mind of the fight. How easily he was swatted down and blasted. The memory of Jesmon exploding before him. Gasping he awoke, a quick glance around the room before cringing in pain, falling back onto the pillow.
“You alright?” Tai whispered, half awake, adjusting Agumon beneath the blanket he had over him. 
“I’m fine.” Dorumon turned over, looking away from Tai. 
“Yeah, tough guy act. I know it.” Tai yawned. “Well, try to get back to sleep.” He said, closing his eyes once again. Dorumon began sniffling, the tears escaping once more. Tai chanced a quick look over at him and saw his shoulder occasionally bounce as he cried. Stealthfully, he moved the chair over, keeping Agumon fast asleep in his arms and placed it down closer to the bed. Settling back in, he reached out and put a hand on Dorumon’s shoulder. “It’s alright.” He whispered. 
“I hated him.” Dorumon stammered. “So why is this happening to me? Why do I grieve for someone I despise?”
“You didn’t hate Hackmon, you just fell out. It happens sometimes.” Tai said softly, gazing down at Agumon. “He was family to you. Maybe neither of you could admit it, or you just forgot what it meant but. You two loved each other.” 
“Not true.” Dorumon tried to argue. 
“I get it. It feels like that. But you wouldn’t be reacting this way if you didn’t care about him.” Tai countered. “Just try to rest for now, we can talk about it later.”  

The next morning, Dorumon awoke to see Tai working on his laptop while Agumon was sitting in the window eating a variety of breakfast sandwiches. 
“Mmm.” Tai moaned, rubbing the bridge of his nose. “Jeez, how to put yesterday into words.” 
“I know!” Agumon piped up. “How bout, there was lots of fighting. Some people and digimon were defeated. But the bad guys lost, and the good guys won! See, look at that. I just saved ya a whole day’s work.” He laughed. 
“You’re not wrong, but Mr. Yamada wants specifics and that’s a pretty abridged version.” Tai chuckled. “How’s those sandwiches buddy? Holding you over?” 
“They’re great, but they got nothing on those burgers you made!” Agumon laughed. 
“Heh, so the good guys win and the bad guys lose.” Tai shrugged. 
“Almost, all the bad guys lost.” Dorumon said quietly. 
“Huh? Oh hey, you’re awake.” Tai greeted. “Was beginning to wonder.” 
“So.” Agumon placed his last sandwich down and strolled over; leaping up on the bed he stood tall over Dorumon and crossed his arms. “What are you gonna do now? Are you healed enough to go home?”
“Agumon.” Tai chuckled, patting his back. 
“Tai.” Agumon snapped a quick look back to him. “Trust me.” 
“Of course.” Tai conceded. 
“I do not know.” Dorumon said, trying to pick himself up from bed. Grunting and moaning he struggled to find his feet. “I lack the power to teleport. I used up so much strength in the fight, and after returning home after how the battle went, my master was not pleased.” 
“The great Alphamon brought low in combat by a Megaseadramon. How, pitiful.” Dark Gennai taunted as he appeared. “Hardly befitting a royal knight to fall victim to such weak prey. Unless of course, you happen to be Jesmon.” 
“You take that back!” Agumon shouted. 
“Easy Agumon.” Tai got up and held him back. 
“That’s right, what are you gonna do? A powerless little lizard in the lap of a worthless human! Say, Dorumon, this is the perfect chance for you to seize some favor from King Drasil! Blow them both to hell!” Dark Gennai ordered. Agumon turned to Dorumon, his claws raised and ready to fight but Dorumon simply staggered down the bed past Agumon, almost falling off from the guard rail before answering. 
“Be silent, you serve King Drasil and his right hand digimon, which in case you’ve forgotten is me!” Dorumon argued. “Don’t presume to give me orders you pitiful jester.” 
“Hmph.” Dark Gennai shook his head. “I guess you really have gone soft, haven’t you?” 
“Metal sho-! Ugh!” Dorumon tried to attack but fell on his chin. “Why? Why is the master letting me stay so damaged!?” He cried out. Dark Gennai’s eyes turned black as night along with his hair and robes. His eyes so shadowed it was as though they weren’t even there. 
“You weak pathetic fool.” A deeper, dark voice spoke. 
“Master, please!” Dorumon cried out, trying to find his footing but Agumon had to help him up. “Get off me!” 
“I’m just trying to help you.” Agumon retorted. 
“Master, you told me to mend my own wounds. I did what I had to, to survive. Why leave me to die, why question my faith!?” Dorumon pleaded. 
“If this is what you call survival, you should have taken the honor of being destroyed in my service instead. I knew you couldn’t resist returning to this pitiful human. Your heart grows soft in their presence, your whimpering for Jesmon was all the proof I needed of your downfall.”
“He was my brother.” Dorumon stammered. “My reaction to his destruction was more than understandable. The better question is; I’ve served faithfully for so long! How dare you question my loyalties!?” 
“You will have one chance to regain my favor. Bring me the head of that human and his sister as penance for your misguided actions. Otherwise, die in whatever way suits you.” King Drasil ordered. 
“Whatever happened to the truce, King Drasil?” Tai cut in. “The Primal digimon were defeated this time, but with Dorumon out of commission, you’re just as vulnerable as Homeostasis, don’t think you can just-“ 
“Enough of your mindless babbling!” King Drasil bellowed, shaking the hospital as he spoke. “Such alliances were little more than a tool to bring about the rightful outcome of the digital world. The data released when Megaseadramon was destroyed was claimed by me. If this soft hearted worm cannot do what must be done. I will mould my perfect creation to do it for me!” He shouted, as Dark Gennai reverted to form.  
“The quantum data that Megaseadramon released, when he was destroyed.” Tai stammered.
“My counterpart isn’t the only one that can redirect data where he wants! Hahahaha, the timing was so perfect! Homeostasis won’t be able to counter this one! Tell you what! We’ll make you a rather gracious offer! Stay in the human world as long as you can. Once the digital world is ours, we’ll kill you last! Isn’t that so kind of our master? You’ll have the privilege of dying knowing just how useless you really are! Ahhhahahahaha!” Dark Gennai cackled as he vanished.  
“That jerk!” Agumon growled. 
“I gotta tell Izzy right away. This is bad.” Tai stammered. 
“I..” Dorumon shuddered, rising up to his feet. “I have to.. Take your heads to him.” 
“Dorumon!?” Tai countered.
“I’m a servant of King Drasil, the royal knight of darkness! I am the blade of judgment of the digital world!” Dorumon shouted with tears creeping from his eyes. Growling Agumon wound up and smacked Dorumon clear off the bed, sending him rolling onto the floor before Tai. 
“Agumon.” Tai tried to interject but Agumon carried on, rolling Dorumon over and pushed his claws to his throat. 
“You’re not killing anyone.” Agumon threatened, glaring right into Dorumon’s eyes. “You’re not any of that stuff you just said, all you are is a wounded, evil digimon.” 
“Go on, destroy me then.” Dorumon coughed. 
“Why did you come to Tai? Why did you turn to him and cry when your brother died!? Why did you help save us and the other digimon? Come on, answer me!” Agumon insisted, pressing him further. 
“I did what my master ordered me to do.” Dorumon retorted. 
“That’s a lie! You don’t even trust yourself.” Agumon stated. “So why should we trust you?” 
“What’s that supposed to mean!?” Dorumon barked back, but was pressed down by Agumon’s claws. 
“You came to Tai, because you knew he’d help you. You let him hold you when Hackmon died because you trusted him, and for whatever reason he trusts you. I don’t.” Agumon said, pressing his claws deeper. “My first duty is to protect, Tai. If you’re a threat to him, I have to destroy you now while I can. But here’s my question for you. What do you think’s gonna happen if you kill Tai, and fail King Drasil again in the future? You think he’ll ever care for you? He wouldn’t even save you when you were dying last night, you had to come to Tai to survive. So.” Agumon said, picking Dorumon up. “Either let us help you by working with us to stop whatever monster King Drasil is making. Or. I can destroy you right now, and you’ll die without a single friend in the world. Which is a pretty miserable way to go if you ask me.”
“You don’t understand.” Dorumon growled. 
“What wouldn’t I understand?” Agumon insisted. 
“After Hackmon abandoned me to serve Homeostasis, I was sworn to the service of King Drasil. It was him that awoke my ancient strength and now, my charge, is the preservation of the digital world and I will uphold that oath to the end. It’s a matter of honor, I must obey.”
“You swore to protect the digital world, just like Hackmon.” Tai cut in, kneeling down to the two of them. “You don’t have to do it by serving King Drasil.” 
“Of course you’d say that.” 
“Remember, Hackmon abandoned Homeostasis to fight alongside Gennai. He fought to the end to serve the very same cause, and we all regard him as a hero.” Tai explained. “Now, whatever King Drasil is plotting, he’s going to enslave the digital world. If you’re sworn to protect it, maybe now’s the right time to join our side to fight for it.” 
“Tai’s right. Homeostasis and King Drasil are serving their own ends. They don’t care about the digital world anymore. But Dorumon.” Agumon placed a hand on Dorumon’s shoulder before continuing. “Maybe if we work together, we can save the digital world. Besides, you’re not the only “royal knight” remember?” He smiled. 
“Omnimon.” Dorumon gave a quick laugh and turned away. Closing his eyes, he thought to himself for a moment before turning back to Tai. “Can you help me back up to the bed?”
“Sure.” Tai agreed, gently lifting him up to the bed and setting him down, while Agumon jumped up on the bed.  
“I’ll need rest to heal from my injuries, and time to think on what you’ve told me.” 
“I hope you make the right decision.” Agumon stated, folding his arms. 
“Either way.” Dorumon coughed for a moment before glancing to Agumon. “I still want my rematch against you as Omnimon.” 
“Hmph.” Agumon smiled, raising his brow. “Yeah alright. We’ll find somewhere safe to do it and we’ll have a fight.” 
“Heh, I’m glad.” Dorumon settled himself into the bed, pulling the cover over him. “Thank you, for the council Agumon.”

“Joe, I’ll be fine!” Willis argued. Most of the digi-destined and their digimon had gathered in Izzy’s office, save for Ken, Yolei, Davis, Tai and Meiko. It was late in the afternoon and Izzy invited anyone who wanted to visit over. Willis and Joe however seemed to be in a little bit of a heated argument. “I didn’t come all this way just to get benched now!” 
“Sure, go ahead and get right back in there. The next blow to your head right now could leave you in a coma, or worse yet it could kill you! I don’t think you’re taking this as serious as you should.” Joe refuted. 
“Joe’s right, Willis.” Gomamon chimed in. “I’ve worked with concussion patients in the past, though they kept thinking I was a hallucination.” 
“Haven’t we lost enough good people?” Mimi interjected, leaning against the wall.
“Precisely Mimi.” Izzy agreed. “Besides Willis, while Tai’s message was a little disturbing we still don’t know what we’re going to be dealing with next. The battle may be even more hazardous.”
“Assuming we can even battle whatever’s coming.” Tentomon quipped. 
“Got a point there.” Sora acknowledged. “Whatever’s coming our rookie digimon just aren’t ready for and the timers on Ken and Davis’s digivice are winding down by the hour.” 
“They’re both really upset.” Cody said, holding Armadillomon in his arms. “Davis has gone unusually quiet. He knows he’s not going to lose Veemon, but he’s still so angry at Homeostasis.” T.K followed up by mentioning. 
“That goes double for Ken. I think he’s at home trying to hack it right now. He won’t even return Yolei’s calls, let alone ours.”
“I’m worried.” Kari said, leaning into T.K. “We need a plan, and soon.” 
“Where’s Tai, didn’t he say he was coming?” Matt questioned. Just as he spoke, a knock came at the door as Tai, Agumon, Meiko and Meicoomon came in. “Punctual as ever.” 
“Hey, I didn’t call this meeting.” He quipped back. “Man, you can cut the tension in here with a knife.” 
“Willis is upset with the notion of going back to America.” Izzy began to explain. “Ken and Davis are out of sorts because of their timers and well, your text baring the news that King Drasil is working on a quantum digimon brought in even more concern.” 
“Yeah, jerk-head Gennai showed up at the hospital. That’s when King Drasil spoke through him.” Tai briefly summarized. 
“Watching over Dorumon?” Matt questioned, crossing his arms. 
“Yeah, he came to us last night on his deathbed.” 
“Good, then you shoulda let him.” Matt retorted. 
“Don’t be so harsh Matt. He fought against Megaseadramon along with the rest of us.” Tai argued. 
“Because he had no choice! I told you not to trust him and now once he heals up, who do you think he’s gonna turn on!?” 
“Since when did you start judging who can and can’t change!?” Tai fired back as the two stood off against each other. 
“Not again.” Gabumon and Agumon said in unison. 
“Since when do you trust the same digimon who almost wiped out the younger team, not to mention how he tried to kill your girlfriend and her digimon back in high school!?” Matt countered. 
“Who do you mean, Jesmon, Alphamon or Omnimon? Last time I checked, we all got lost on that fight!” 
“Which is why when it’s stupidly obvious where the danger is now, we should be fighting Dorumon, not giving him sponge baths!” 
“Enough! Both of you!” Sora jumped in, pushing the two of them aside. Kari sighed and shook her head in T.K’s arms. 
“It wouldn’t be a reunion without those two fighting.”
“Yep, like I said, heads harder than Veemon.” T.K reminded her. 
“Tai, Matt has a point.” Sora turned her attention to him. “Dorumon is dangerous and while I know you’re hoping he can change, it’s a huge risk to try to extend that trust now.” 
“I get that.” Tai agreed. 
“Dorumon’s fine.” Meicoomon spoke up, cuddled next to Agumon. 
“Huh?” Everyone turned to her. 
“What?” Meicoomon wondered, twitching her ears. 
“How can you be sure?” Matt questioned. 
“Cause he’s broken. King Drasil left him for dead. His hearts one big mess, but he’s connecting to Tai. He has a warmth in his heart for you, and it’s trying so hard to break free. Besides, Hackmon isn’t the only one strong enough to fight off Alphamon.” Meicoomon explained, glancing up to Meiko. 
“Please, don’t.” Meiko refuted. 
“Meiko, if we have to, I’m gonna try it again.” Meicoomon countered. 
“Try what?” Agumon asked. 
“Meiko and I have tried to push me to mega level before. But it’s really dangerous to do because, I can’t just digivolve from Meicrackmon up.” 
“What do you need to do?” Asked Gabumon. 
“I learned I can raise my power if I go into vicious form as Meicrackmon. It’s a lot more powerful, although a lot more unstable. But the angrier I get, the more my power goes up.” 
“I remember!” Izzy exclaimed. “You were growing in strength the more angry you became until you digivolved into Raguelmon.” 
“Mmhmm.” Meicoomon nodded. “If I switch back to Meicrackmon after gathering up all that power. It turns to light energy. Last time we tried though, I did a bit of damage. Stuff went offline, lights broke, Meiko wasn’t happy about that.” 
“It was pretty scary at first.” Meiko recalled.
“I got close to digivolving, but it wasn’t enough. I needed to gather more strength, but I didn’t wanna hurt anything or anyone, so I stopped.” Meicoomon concluded. 
“So, if you digivolved to mega.” Izzy thought aloud. 
“She was holding her ground against Omnimon and Alphamon in the past. She even clobbered Jesmon.” Sora stated. 
“Right, but something goes wrong, she’ll turn to Raguelmon.” Meiko cut in. “I’m really happy with how well Mei has progressed, and I know she’ll reach mega safely some day. I just don’t think we’re ready for it yet.” 
“Meiko.” Meicoomon shook her head, tugging on her dress. “I’m ready.” 
“Are you sure?” Meiko replied, kneeling down to her. 
“Mmhmm.” Meicoomon smiled, taking Agumon’s claws in her hands. “I’m in love. I have great friends. I can feel all their light inside me. They’ll keep me grounded, I won’t lose my way. Not this time.” 
“Aww, Meicoomon.” Agumon wrapped her up in a good long hug. “I love you too! And if you say you’re ready, I believe in you.” 
“Agumon.” Tai smiled. “Alright, we have a fall back option. Look you guys, there’s no point fighting about this. Willis, if you wanna stay, then stay, but you’re off the battlefield and that’s that. Terriermon and Lopmon are the absolute last resort. Izzy, we’ll carry on with our plan on Wednesday. Meet up at your place and approach Homeostasis. If all else fails, I do have one backup plan.” 
“Let’s hear it.” Matt spoke up. 
“Kari said she connected with the Kernel when we were inside the anti-chamber. If homeostasis rejects us. I’ll take Dorumon, Agumon, Kari and Gatomon with me back inside. Maybe we can make a case to the Kernel to reinstate us. Aside from that, if anyone else has any suggestions, use this time off to iron them out. We’ll put everything on the table and work though it. King Drasil is not going to have his way with the digital world.” Tai stated. 
“Now that sounds like the Tai I know.” Joe chuckled. 
“Yep, I’m on board!” Gomamon agreed. 
“Right, if we’re up against a new bad digimon, we better have a real good plan worked out.” Palmon said. 
“I’ll go check in with Davis and Ken. Make sure they’re ok.” Sora offered. 
“Right, let’s see this through to the end.” Tai smiled with a fist pump. 
“Tai.” Matt grabbed hold of his fist and leaned in closer. “I wanna try something. Let’s go check in on Dorumon.” 

Dorumon was fast asleep in his room at the hospital. The sun had already long since set and the room was fairly dark, save for the lights from the bedside tables and a little bit of moonlight. A soft song began to ring through his room, the whistle of a harmonica playing a familiar song while Dorumon gradually awoke. His eyes fluttered to see the chair where Tai was sitting last was empty. Confused because he could still hear the music, he turned over to see Gabumon at the foot of his bed, gently rocking his head to the music and Matt sitting in another chair playing away. 
“What, wait. You’re Matt, right?” Dorumon questioned. Matt lowered the harmonica and glared at Dorumon. 
“What of it?” He asked. 
“Where’s Tai and Agumon?” 
“Taking the evening off. They asked me to watch you.” Matt answered. Dorumon eased the sheets off a little and thought for a moment. 
“What was that you were doing?” 
“The harmonica?” Matt questioned. 
“It sounded kind of nice. Can you do it again?” Dorumon requested. 
“Sure.” Matt obliged and began playing the same song, much to Gabumon’s delight. Dorumon saw Gabumon with his eyes closed, gently swaying back and forth to the song. As the music subsided Dorumon returned his attention to Matt who kept his eyes closed and head low. 
“So, music. I haven’t heard any for a while.” Dorumon spoke quietly. 
“Music doesn’t really lend itself to evil.” Gabumon answered. 
“Right.” Dorumon submitted. Taking a deep breath, he slowly picked himself up. Matt and Gabumon seemed on guard right away but Dorumon simply stretched out his legs and shook himself out. “Ugh.” He flinched, curling in a little on himself. “Still some pain. But it’s much more manageable.”
“So, you’re healing.” Matt wondered. 
“Yes. Though not at full strength, I think I can at least travel.” 
“Alright.” Matt stood up. “So, what are you gonna do now? Teleport back to your master? Or try to kill me?” 
“Huh?” Dorumon questioned. Turning to Gabumon he was already glaring at him, seemingly ready to jump in and fight. “Hmph, right. I’m recovering, but not battle ready. So paws down, mutt.” Dorumon scoffed at Gabumon. 
“You have Tai fooled, I’ll give you that.” Matt said as Dorumon turned and growled at him. “But I’m not so easy to play. What’s your plan, and it better be the truth.” 
“Right!” Gabumon stepped in closer. 
“I haven’t decided what I want to do next.” Dorumon refuted. “Besides, talk tough all you want. You’re all out of digimon with the power to stop me.” 
“Maybe, maybe not.” Matt countered. “Fact is you’re a liability we don’t need right now. So give me and Gabumon a reason not to take you out.” 
“You’re too weak to destroy me.” Dorumon countered. 
“Think again!” Matt shouted, lunging for Dorumon and pinning him to the bed. Dorumon struggled to break free, but his injuries prevented him from fighting back. “Tai might be blind to the threat you pose to us all, but I’m not gonna let him risk his neck on a hunch about you! He’s my best friend and I won’t let you hurt him! You hear me!?” He bellowed, shaking Dorumon. 
“I don’t want to hurt him!” Dorumon confessed between gasps. 
“Why!? Why should I believe you!?” Matt continued to argue.
“Because he’s all I have left now!” Dorumon shouted back. Matt eased off the attack and allowed Dorumon to regain some of his composure while Gabumon remained ready to attack at the slightest hint of provocation. “Hackmon and I. We weren’t always at war with each other. We once fought side by side, living together in peace. One day, Homeostasis awoke the power of Jesmon inside him, and offered him a grand purpose. To serve the digital world by preserving balance and harmony.” 
“So why didn’t you go with him?” Gabumon asked. 
“I wanted to!” Dorumon cried out. “I hadn’t digivolved to Alphamon yet, I had no idea Hackmon was so strong. I wanted to fight alongside him, but Homeostasis sensed the darkness within me, and refused.” Dorumon said, lowering his head. “Hackmon sided with it, and turned his back on me.” He paused for a moment. “Do you have any idea how painful that is? How lonely? It’s terrifying it is to lose something irreplaceable, especially someone you loved.”
“I get it.” Matt turned away for a moment, looking toward the window. “I remember the day we lost Tai in the digital world. Thinking he was gone forever. I said the same thing to Gabumon.”
“When Hackmon perished, I felt the same pain inside the day he abandoned me. It all came rushing back. Tai was the only one to ever put any trust in me. There’s greatness and warmth in his heart that I admire. The only one to ever show me kindness beyond Tai, was King Drasil. He was the one who awoke within me my prowess as a royal knight.” 
“You keep mentioning, the royal knights.” Gabumon spoke up. “What are they?” 
“You don’t know?” Dorumon questioned, raising his brow. “They were once the guardians of the digital world in ancient times. A powerful order with a vast array of powers. So much knowledge about the ancient world is lost, even to entities as powerful as King Drasil and Homeostasis, but fragments of their memories return here and there. Gabumon you are one of them too, when you join with Agumon to become Omnimon, you felt it, didn’t you? You knew who I was when we faced off without either of us exchanging a single word.”  
“It’s true.” Gabumon acknowledged, much to Matt’s surprise. 
“Gabumon, you never mentioned that!” 
“I never meant to hide it from you Matt. It was just such a strange feeling and hard to put into words. I just knew he was Alphamon.” Gabumon answered. 
“Just as I knew you were Omnimon.” Dorumon smiled. “It was thrilling to battle against you. A true challenge, unique to the endless quarrels between Jesmon and myself.” 
“Dorumon, I still need an answer. What are you going to do now?” Matt said, bringing the conversation back around. 
“I don’t know.” He moaned, falling back into the bed. “With my brother destroyed, my master disowning me, there’s little I can offer anyone. For now, all I can promise is that I will not bring harm to Tai or Agumon. I owe them too much. Now, please leave me alone. 
“Sorry, can’t do that. Least not yet.” Tai opened the door and Agumon followed him inside. 
“You tricked me again?” Dorumon huffed. 
“No, not really.” Tai shook his head. “Matt wanted to be sure you were really trying to turn over a new leaf.” He explained walking over and sitting down at the foot of Dorumon’s bed. “I heard everything, I’m really sorry for everything you lost.” 
“It’s not your fault.” He sighed in despair. 
“Yeah.” Tai snickered, pulling Dorumon in for a hug. “You’re not alone in this, ok? Stick with us until you find your purpose again. I just hope, you’ll learn to trust us.” 
“I guess.” He submitted. “But is it ok, if I just trust you and Agumon for now?” 
“Heh, sure.” Tai agreed. “Do you wanna leave? You could crash at my place.” 
“Sure. I’m feeling a little better.” Dorumon approved.