The Adventures Of Digimon and Guardian Belief

Chapter 18

Retreating from Pennsylvania State was done quickly, with a promise from Jack to explain everything to Jamie when things had settled, and the tired group found a quiet patch of forest a few miles away to rest.

Sandy floated down onto a nearby boulder, letting out a silent sigh as the dream-sand cloud followed, dispersing gently as it deposited the battle-weary Chosen and their Digimon on the soft grass Bunny had cleared.

Retrieving the blanket from Jack, Kim threw it over her sister’s shoulders, pulling her close to share warmth as Gabumon leaned into her other side.

Shrugging off her coat, Casey gently coaxed Evie’s arms through the sleeves, zipping it up tight as Gatomon wiggled in under the hem and Agumon yawned, falling against his Warrior‘s back with a purr.

Bee shifted to compensate for her injured ankle, smiling as Tentomon took over and elevated it comfortably for her, and Ally fell over in relief, stretching out as Palmon fell over her chest with a sigh.

Leomon stopped in the middle of the clearing, scanning the area closely for a few moments before turning to the assembled group of once-controlled Digimon and Warriors.

“They need to rest if they are to have any chance of succeeding. You all should scout the area, make sure no darkness comes near.”

None of them argued, setting out to do just that as the lion-Digimon turned to face six exhausted Chosen and three worried Guardians.

“You don’t have long to rest. Devimon and Akuma are nearly ready to take over our worlds.”

“Of course they are…” Casey grumbled, relaxing minutely as Bunny sat beside them, a paw warm against her back.

“They are ruthless and cunning.” Kim commented, gaze flickering for a moment as Jack landed by her side. “They know we are weak and still regrouping, and will take advantage of the extra time to further their goals.”

“B-But our Digivices c-counteract their Black Gears a-and Devimon’s Touch of Evil a-attack.” Bee voiced. “W-We have an a-advantage this time.”

“An advantage they know about.” Kim pointed out.

“And what about Ma and Faye? They haven’t joined us yet…” Ally noticed, sitting up.

“The longer we leave Devimon and Akuma to their own devices, the stronger they will become.” Leomon warned.

Silence fell as the group mulled over their situation, trying to figure out the best course of action…

“Then we fight.”

All eyes snapped to Casey, who looked back without a single doubt in her mind.

“It’s the only way. Now or never.”

After a moment, Kim nodded as Gabumon straightened, bristling slightly.

“It is.”

“It’ll be hard…” Ally admitted, though her eyes soon lit up in optimism. “But I’m in, too!”

“I-I’ll help…” Bee agreed, fidgeting with the hem of her sweater.

The Guardians could not help but be proud, morale rising as they all became one in an objective.

“Then it’s settled!” Casey decided, grinning. “We’re going back to Burgess!”

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Devimon scowled at the setback to his plans, and Akuma turned away from the messengers with a hiss, punching a boulder into dust out of frustration.