YuYuGiDigiMoon: Dawn of Chaos

by Kanius

Tamers, Sailor Moon, YuYu Hakusho, YuGiOh/GX/5Ds, Frontier, Savers, Adventure/02, and exclusive OC crossover. In March 2009, a forthcoming chaos disrupts worlds, timelines, and dimensions. Facing multiple enemies, Japan's heroes must stand united or become divided in order to stop Paradais from subverting time and space.

2. Paradais Attacks! The Fall of Heroes?

A/N: Was the first chapter enough to satisfy you? Well, chapter two is when the story completely turns around and sets up the direction for season 3's duration. Trust me. This is going to be one long, mega crossover season. You'll get everything you could ever ask for in this season.

To Yamimaru and Magician of Black Chaos: Did you get my PM/email, guys?

As for the 5Ds timeline, I'm well aware of you've been telling me. I take your reviews by heart, but I've decided to go with this direction. Hopefully, it will become more clear and I might explain why 5Ds is set 1,000 years into the future later. Granted, it shouldn't even be an issue right now. Are we clear?

The non-stop action picks up with a few shocking end results. The mysterious new 'Paradais' group mounts their next move. Let's see how our heroes will deal with them and the enemies they're still engaged in battle with.

Anyway, on with story!

xxxxx

Chapter 2

Paradais Attacks! The Fall of Japan's Heroes?

xxxxx

Minato-ku District/Shiba Park/Tokyo Tower/March 25, 2009/12:33 PM

Standing on top of a platform in Tokyo Tower, a trio of shadowed figures gazed across the Japanese metropolis. These three figures included Nix, the tentacled individual named Hydra, and a larger, bulkier behemoth. Encircling the needlepoint of the tower was a massive snake-like giant. All four stared off toward Tokyo with gleaming, red eyes.

"Shall we set off then?" Nix inquired. "The Kuiper Senshi and I have a lot to catch up on."

A sly grin formed on Hydra's face. "Be my guest. You just leave the other Senshi to me."

"The Tamers are all mine!" The snake-like creature hanging above bellowed out, his voice had a sinister, hissing tone. "There are two amongst the group that I wish to see."

The bulky behemoth nodded firmly. "That leaves me with the Legendary Warriors. Yes, they should be fun to play with."

"Then, it's settled. These so-called heroes will know the wrath of..."

"PARADAIS!" The group shouted as they vanished from their positions and set off to locate their targets.

xxxxx

Shinjuku District/Outside the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building/12:35 PM

Gallantmon roared as he charged toward Chaos Gallantmon and blasted him with a beam through his lance. "Lightning Joust!"

As he counterattacked, Chaos Gallantmon fired a bolt through his lance. "Chaos Disaster!"

The two bolts collided as the two Exalted Knights struggled to push each other back. They stood their ground and were at a standstill. Then, Gallantmon seized the opportunity and rolled out of the way. He lifted his Aegis Shield and fired a beam through it. "Shield of the Just!"

Chaos Gallantmon whirled around and raised his Gorgon Shield. The powerful beam repeatedly bombarded his shield while he was standing his ground. Gallantmon continued to let loose more charged energy until he was able to overpower Chaos Gallantmon. Chaos Gallantmon yelled out as the beam knocked his Gorgon Shield away and struck his chest. The beam knocked Chaos Gallantmon across the battlefield and into the streets. The dark Exalted Knight crashed into a side building and was left buried under a pile of debris.

"Ugh... darn it..." Chaos Gallantmon coughed as he listlessly moved his arms. He looked up and saw Suzakato hovering him. "You."

"Yep, and you picked a wrong day to pick a fight with us!" Suzakato exclaimed as he shot streams of fire out of his palms. "Firepalm Blast!"

Chaos Gallantmon threw his cape in front of himself. His fireproof cape managed to repel the deadly flames, but his armor managed to put up more of a resistance. Still, the heat was enough to make him feel pain. If that wasn't enough, Gallantmon lunged right at Chaos Gallantmon and tackled him to the ground.

"You've lost, Chaos Gallantmon! You and your pals failed to beat us today!" Gallantmon shouted.

Chaos Gallantmon snarled under his breath. "Maybe today, but there's always next time. Our plans have already been set into motion..."

"What plans?" Suzakato demanded as he overheard the dark digimon.

"You'll know soon enough..."

Gallantmon lifted his lance over Chaos Gallantmon. "We'll see about that. Tell us."

"Oh, dear brother, you wouldn't kill me..."

"You're no brother of mine, Chaos Gallantmon. Now, what plan are you referring to?"

Chaos Gallantmon merely chortled against his 'brother's' demands. The plans he referred to were a foreshadow of what was to come. That would come very soon than the Tamers would anticipate.

xxxxx

Whirling her staff overhead, Sakuyamon walloped Lady Devimon across the face. The dark mistress was sent plummeting to the ground. As Lady Devimon landed in a heap, Sakuyamon descended alongside Seirika. The two paced toward the Fallen Angel digimon, who was already standing up on her feet. Lady Devimon shook her head and wiped her side lip.

"Know your place, Lady Devimon. At your level, you can't hope to defeat me," Sakuyamon said.

Lady Devimon angrily snarled. "Don't lecture me, you cow! I'm one of Lord Demon's generals!"

"Yet you can't beat me or Sakuyamon," Seirika retorted. "Give it up, unless you want to die here and now!" She positioned her trident forward and prepared to summon another thunder cloud.

The evil mistress slowly stepped away and clenched her fists. "You'll live to regret this. Yes, this is just a minor victory for you, but we will have the last laugh. Just you wait."

"Spewing bullshit isn't going to scare us. Face it, you've been beat."

"No, Rika. I have a feeling this won't be the last time we'll see her and her colleagues," the golden-armored digimon stated.

"Give the girl a cigar. She has it all down, Rika Nonaka, but whatever we have in store for you... well, I don't like your chances!"

Seirika was wary of Lady Devimon's warning. "What could she mean, Sakuyamon?"

"I can't say..." Sakuyamon murmured.

xxxxx

Managing to break free out of Skull Satanmon's paralysis attack, the green-armored behemoth released electrical surges that covered his entire frame. The electrical surges neutralized the paralysis effects, allowing Mega Gargomon to move freely. Skull Satanmon blanched in shock as his jaw literally dropped. He bobbled it a bit after it fell off before reattaching it.

"YES! I'M FREE!" Mega Gargomon laughed as he lifted his arms.

Skull Satanmon freaked out. "GAH! NO WAY!" He whirled around and waved off to Marine Devimon. "Um, my attack just isn't what it used to be." He chuckled nervously.

"Oh, isn't that quite obvious, GENIUS?" Marine Devimon snapped.

"All right you two! Payback is definitely in order! Ready, Henry?" Mega Gargomon exclaimed as he rotated his arms around and charged toward Marine Devimon.

Suddenly, Henbu hovered on a levitating slab of earth behind Skull Satanmon. He tapped the fool's back, causing him to whirl around in alarm. Skull Satanmon jumped back and attempted to strike Henbu. Henbu jumped away and countered by launching the chunk of earth he lifted. The earth pelted Skull Satanmon, knocking him to the ground below.

Mega Gargomon walloped Marine Devimon with a single punch. He quickly seized the marine demon and rotated, swinging the black-skinned marine monster. "Round and round you go, ink breath! This is ruining the paint job on my armor!"

Henbu groaned, overhearing his partner's obviously untrue claims. Your armor doesn't even have a paint job.

"Now... UP YOU GO!"

After swinging him around, Mega Gargomon flung Marine Devimon into the air. The demon's screams echoed as he was thrown up high above. Then, Marine Devimon came falling down and crashed near Skull Satanmon.

"Score one for the home team!" Mega Gargomon hollered as he raised his right arm. "And the losers get sent to the locker rooms!"

"That's it. No more after school basketball games for you," the Warrior of Genbu nodded in shame. If going to Takato's games was bad enough, sneaking into the girls' locker room has turned him into an even bigger perv. Suzie's in trouble when she grows older.

Skull Satanmon groaned as he saw tiny DemiDevimons spinning around him. "Who are ya... calling losers? Gah!" He coughed and fell unconscious.

"He called us... losers..." Marine Devimon groaned. "Am I the only one seeing DemiDevimons now?"

"Nope... they're laughing at me... ugh... remind me to stuff myself with cheeseburgers while wallowing in self pity."

"Now you're sounding like one of those emo types... that's not like you..."

Skull Satanmon sniffed and wanted to cry. "WOE IS ME! WE LOST TO A TAMER AND A BIG SHOT!"

Marine Devimon sighed. "Idiot."

xxxxx

General Scorpionus backed away as Youkai Inumon missed a claw slash. Youkai Inumon quickly spun around and fired a burst of black fire out of his right hand, which knocked General Scorpionus off the roof.

As General Scorpionus fell, Himakko jumped right off the roof and landed atop of the cybernetic monster. He utilized his magnetic abilities and ripped open Scorpionus' chest. Then, he 'yanked' the general's arms off with his magnetic powers. Himakko delivered punch to Scorpionus' face. He then ripped off half of the general's face and sent him crashing to the ground. Himakko landed on his feet and waited for Youkai Inumon to land down beside him.

"Curse... you... you haven't won this war. This is just the beginning... mark my words..." General Scorpionus' voice crackled as a pair of glider wings expanded out of his back. The gliders allowed the cybernetic monster to propel himself into the air and fly away.

"Hey, come back..." Youkai Inumon called out as he landed near Himakko.

"Let him go. He's not worth it," Himakko replied. "But, what does he mean that this is just the beginning?"

"Whatever he means, we'll be here to stop him and his pals."

The Warrior of Byakko replied. "Oh yeah." But, this is something we can't write off as a bluff. I have a bad feeling something is going down in the Digital World. Why would these creeps just suddenly attack us today? "They're definitely up to something, Youkai Inumon."

"Yeah, you're telling me. We better up our defenses if these attacks repeatedly go on," the dark canine affirmed. "And here I was about to enjoy a nice break with the pups. Renamon and I are not pleased."

Himakko scanned the vicinity and saw their friends gaining an upper hand over the Demon Corps.

xxxxx

Meanwhile, the Victory Tamers and their digimon partners completely decimated the Nightmare Soldiers. The remaining Nightmare Soldiers began to retreat. Atolmdramon, Yamidramon, Puppetmon, and Fuugamon were left without any soldiers to back them up.

"Look at them go!" Andromon called out.

Kazu grinned proudly and laughed. "They couldn't take the pain anymore! This is our town!"

"Yeah, hit the road!" Kenta hollered at the fleeing digimon.

Puppetmon blanched as he called back for his soldiers. "Where are you cowards going? We're not done here!"

"They're smarter than you give them credit for. They know they can't handle us," Phillipe said as he walked behind Puppetmon. "You should leave, too."

"Bah! I'm not going let a punk like yo-" Puppetmon gasped as a large hand snatched him by the neck. "Hey, let go!"

Atolmdramon lifted Puppetmon up and threw him on his back. The dark dragon snorted in response. "We underestimated the Tamers and their pets. Besides, this won't be the last time we'll meet them."

"Gonna try and attempt to raid our town again? I don't think so!" Kazu remarked.

"Quite the contrary," Yamidramon interjected as he ran up beside Atolmdramon. "This little skirmish will pale in comparison to the real war in the Digital World."

"Real war?" Angedramon listened to Yamidramon.

"In the Digital World? What are you planning?" Artemismon called out.

Jeri added as she flew over by Angedramon. "Could there be something going on in the Digital World?"

"Heh, you Tamers can enjoy this victory. Savor it for as long as you can!" Atolmdramon exclaimed as he whistled toward Fuugamon. "Fuugamon, we're leaving!"

"Hang on! I'm coming!" Fuugamon cried out as he hurried toward his colleagues.

Yamidramon pulled out a remote device and pressed a button, which opened a portal behind the Demon Corp members. "We'll see each other again, but the end result will be different. I promise you that the Digital World will be seeing drastic changes soon."

"Drastic changes? You're full of it!" Kazu blurted out.

"We'll see. Farewell, Tamers," Atolmdramon stated as he, Yamidramon, Puppetmon, and Fuugamon passed through the portal.

Before any of the Tamers and the digimon could reach it, the portal sealed up and dissipated from out of view.

"We better tell the others about this, guys," Kenta said.

As she probed the Beast Tamers' minds, Jeri quickly responded to Kazu. "Looks like the others already know. Chaos Gallantmon and his cronies have given them the same vague warnings."

"Let's head out and regroup with Takato and the others," Phillipe asserted to his team.

xxxxx

As he pushed the debris off his back, Chaos Gallantmon emerged and shook his head. He turned and saw Gallantmon slowly pacing toward him. He pivoted upward and spotted Suzakato levitating over him. The dark Exalted Knight sprang out of the debris and distanced himself from the duo. He immediately raced out of the building he crashed into and retreated out to gather his colleagues.

"Hey, where do you think you're going?" Suzakato exclaimed as he flew off after Chaos Gallantmon. "We're not done!"

Gallantmon ran ahead and followed his Tamer. "The coward. Chaos Gallantmon, you're not getting away!"

Chaos Gallantmon sprang up high into mid-air and pressed a switch on a wrist band. Upon activating the switch, a portal opened up behind Chaos Gallantmon. He scanned the vicinity as Lady Devimon, Marine Devimon, Skull Satanmon, General Scorpionus, and their Nightmare Soldiers were pulled directly into the portal.

"WHOA! TIME OUT! I STILL HAVEN'T GOTTEN SERIOUS YET!" Skull Satanmon whined as he was pulled through the portal.

Marine Devimon scoffed. "Way to spoil the fun, Chaos Gallantmon."

The dark Exalted Knight retorted irritably. "Don't start. We're done here."

"Chaos Gallantmon, should we even retreat? I told you we should've have let Lord Demon lead the attack on the Tamers!"

"I'm not Lord Demon. Now, go!" Chaos Gallantmon rebuked at the mistress.

Lady Devimon angrily snorted, but still entered the portal back into the Digital World.

Suzakato and Gallantmon regrouped with the other Beast Tamers and the digimon. Sakuyamon and Seirika flew down next to the leaders.

"We managed to drive them off, Takato," Seirika said.

"No, they're retreating, but I get the feeling they're doing it on their own terms. I doubt this'll be the last time we'll face these guys," the Warrior of Suzaku firmly replied.

Gallantmon concurred with his Suzakato. "No doubt about that. Chaos Gallantmon and his cronies aren't going to give up. They'll do anything to take us out."

Sakuyamon raised a more important point. "Did any of you get some kind of a warning? They seem to be plotting something behind the scenes in the Digital World."

"Well, it's been years since we've encountered these guys. Who knows what they've been cooking up while we've been enjoying some peace and quiet here," Suzakato stated. "But, whatever they're up to... we'll stop them."

Before entering the portal, Chaos Gallantmon glared toward the Beast Tamers and digimon. He managed an angry scowl underneath his face helmet, narrowing his eyes specifically toward his 'brother' and Suzakato.

"This isn't over, Tamers. Call this a tactical retreat on our part, but in no way are we going to stop. Our plans far exceed whatever you can predict. The next time we meet... the next stage shall be in the Digital World and the stakes will be even higher," Chaos Gallantmon chuckled despite giving off angry scowls. He turned and flew through the portal. The doorway sealed off as soon as the dark Exalted Knight passed through.

"What a chicken butt! He got away!" Mega Gargomon exclaimed as he landed behind Suzakato, Seirika, Gallantmon, and Sakuyamon.

Hopping off the giant's right shoulder, Henbu landed near Suzakato. "I don't like the sounds of this."

"I second that, Henry!" Himakko called out as he and Youkai Inumon approached his friends.

Youkai Inumon nodded in agreement. "Yeah. If the next stage is going to be in the Digital World, we better arrange a meeting with the Sovereigns. Maybe they're already planning to summon us."

"If there's some crisis currently going on in the Digital World, they would call for us. I wonder why they haven't done so yet," Henbu deduced like usual.

"Hey, guys!" Kazu's voice chimed in from above.

As the group looked upward, they saw Andromon levitating with Kazu on his back. Marine Angemon carried Kenta, sealed in a giant green bubble. Angedramon glided down from the skies and landed while carrying Jeri. Artemismon flew down with Phillipe in her arms.

"We kicked their butts! Our city's safe!" Kazu exclaimed.

"Yeah, except for the property damage we left behind," Kenta aimlessly pointed out after Marine Angemon freed him out of the bubble.

Jeri raced over toward Himakko and embraced him. "Himura, I'm glad you and everyone are ok."

"We're all fine, Jeri," the Warrior of Byakko whispered gently as he kissed Jeri on her lips.

"Himura! What's the deal with those creeps fleeing?" Phillipe immediately called out to his late-cousin's friend.

"They're plotting something in the Digital World. We all have to be ready for whatever they might throw at us," Himakko replied.

Folding his arms, Suzakato communicated with his spiritual partner, Suzaku. 'Well, Suzaku? What do you make of this?'

The phoenix spirit responded to Suzakato's distress. 'I was just discussing things with Seiryuu, Byakko, and Genbu. This is a matter we simply can't overlook. I would highly insist we see the Sovereigns. They and the Celestial Angels should provide the answers we seek.'

Chaos Gallantmon hinted at a war in the Digital World, so we have to meet them head-on. Who knows if they'll attempt to attack our hometown again and I'm not going to let that happen! Suzakato growled while projecting his mental thoughts through Suzaku. "Guys, we'll have to go to the Digital World."

"How are we supposed to get there, genius?" Seirika pointed out.

"Our D-Arks," Henbu answered. "Remember when Yamaki, my dad, and the Monster Makers upgraded our D-Arks sometime after the Taiyoukai incident? We haven't really used them much, but this would be a good time to try them again."

"Good idea, Henry," Jeri said.

"Well, what are we waiting for? Let's-" The overly-enthused Kazu pulled out his D-Ark. "Huh? Is it just me or did it get dark all of a sudden?"

"I don't remember the forecasts saying anything about cloudy weather," Kenta replied as he the area around the vicinity was being covered by a dim shadow.

Gallantmon growled as he and the digimon looked up towards the skies. "That's because it's not cloudy! There's something above us and it's big!"

Once the Beast and Victory Tamers shifted their gazes upward, they noticed a long, serpentine entity encircling the Shinjuku skies. The giant serpent creature looked thirty feet long in diameter. Its hide was scaly, green with black and dark gray tiger-like stripes across its massive, elongated body. Its head was massively built with tough skin. Long, fin-shaped blades lined across the monster's back, starting from the top of the head and coming down all along its tail. While moving its massive body, a loud hissing sound echoed from out of the behemoth. As it scaled around a nearby building, it pivoted its head and raised it high above to cast a looming shadow over the Tamers and their partner digimon.

Extra skin expanded around its head, forming a hood like a cobra's. Its predatory, yellow eyes glared menacingly at the Tamers and the digimon. Gaping its mouth open, three pairs of long fangs protruded out. Drops of venom fell out the tips of these fangs and ate through the concrete it landed on, burning holes through the ground like acid.

Out of the group, Himakko and Youkai Inumon were the first ones to initially respond with sheer horror. The mere vibe that this giant serpent emanated garnered their attention.

"No, it couldn't be... NO!" Himakko shouted as his eyes and mouth gaped horrifying realization.

Suzakato and the Tamers faced their two friends. They expressed concern until Sakuyamon finally figured out what troubled the two.

"He's supposed to be dead!" Youkai Inumon angrily roared. "BASILIKMON!"

"It's Basilikmon, but how?" Sakuyamon cried out in shock.

"But, I thought you killed him in the Shadow Tournament, Inumon!" Jeri exclaimed.

"I did, so how in the hell did he come back!" Youkai Inumon dreaded.

Kenta responded without any second thought. "The Demon Corps must have revived him! They left so he can finish us off!"

"I don't know about that. Can they even revive killed digimon?" Seirika asked.

Gallantmon angrily scowled and raised his lance. "It doesn't matter! We'll just beat him again."

"Yeah, but... LOOK AT HOW BIG HE'S GOTTEN!" Kazu freaked out.

"Himura! This is the monster that murdered Kotori, correct?" Phillipe expressed signs of anger as he gritted his teeth and clenched his fists tightly. The teen was gazing at the same monster that ended his cousin's life years ago. "And he's returned to finish where he left off? Himura..."

"BASILIKMON! DOWN HERE!" The Warrior of Byakko hollered out, immediately drawing the giant snake's attention.

In response to Himakko's tiger roar, the giant serpent laughed aloud. "Did you miss me, Himura? Ah, Inumon, how have you been?" He chuckled while slowly maneuvering his giant frame over the Tamers. "Did you think you could destroy me forever? I CANNOT be denied my revenge on you. I see you've brought along your friends... the Tamers. Perfect. I have you all exactly where I want you!"

"Yeah, I can see you've grown. You've evolved into an advanced form, but you're fighting all of us here! I doubt you can take all of us at once, you snake bastard!" Youkai Inumon shouted as he channeled black flames in his swords. "It was this mega form of mine that destroyed you! Get ready for history to repeat itself!"

"Heh, yes, but you defeated the weaker Basilikmon. Now, after being revived by Paradais, I have been resurrected as KING BASILIKMON!" The giant demonic snake hissed, announcing the name of his new, evolved form.

"King Basilikmon?" Suzakato was taken back.

"Don't worry, Takato. It's just one of him and all of us. We drove Chaos Gallantmon and his cronies out. This guy will be easy..."

King Basilikmon stopped as he raised his head. "Are you sure it's wise to underestimate me, Gallantmon of the Hazard? My level of power has far surpassed the likes of them... my power. The power of Paradais will change the face of your world."

"Paradais?" Henbu murmured.

"What's Paradais?" Artemismon wondered.

Meanwhile, Shinjuku's civilians fled from the area as soon as they saw King Basilikmon. Even those in the nearest buildings began to flee as quickly as they could. King Basilikmon paid no attention to the civilians as his sights were specifically on the Tamers.

"C'mon, Tamers! Care to rise up and challenge my newly gained power?" King Basilikmon snickered as he taunted the Tamers and the digimon. "How about you, Himura and Inumon? You want to pick up where we left off in the Shadow Tournament?"

Himakko finally 'snapped' and charged ahead to attack King Basilikmon. "I'LL SHOW YOU! YOU SHOULD'VE STAYED DEAD!"

"HIMURA!" The Tamers called out as they pursued their teammate.

It didn't take long for Youkai Inumon to catch up with Himakko.

"Not so fast, Himura! We're taking this guy down together!" The dark canine declared, augmenting his swords by channeling his dark flames into them.

"Don't forget about me!" Phillipe ran up, utilizing his super speed. He was already ahead of Himura and Youkai Inumon. "BASTARD! YOU KILLED MY COUSIN! YOU'RE MINE!"

"WAIT! PHILLIPE!" Artemismon exclaimed as she flew off after her Tamer.

King Basilikmon cackled as he raised his head and encircled his giant body around the Tamers. He swung his tail and used it to slap Youkai Inumon away. Sakuyamon lunged at King Basilikmon and smashed her staff across King Basilikmon's face, which didn't faze him. The demonic snake retaliated and opened his mouth, releasing a burst of green mist. The mist smothered Sakuyamon from head to toe, encasing her in a sticky substance that bound her.

"Sakuyamon!" Seirika cried out as she flew down and summoned a strong wind, which carried Sakuyamon off to a nearby tree. However, Seirika's guard was down and this allowed for King Basilikmon to backhand her with his tail. "GAH!"

Mega Gargomon howled out a dramatic battle cry and punched King Basilikmon's face. The thunderous punch managed to knock the giant snake back. King Basilikmon gingerly stumbled back from the giant armored digimon's punch.

"That's for turning me to stone, fang face! I'm gonna make you into a nice belt and a pair of boots when I'm through with ya!"

"Care to back up your boasts, friend?" King Basilikmon chuckled while shaking his head. He lunged forward, delivering a headbutt to Mega Gargomon's chest. "Take this! HEADBUTT SLASH!" He slashed Mega Gargomon's chest with the tip of his top blade.

Mega Gargomon howled out in pain as he gripped his chest. "AUGH!"

"Mega Gargomon!" Henbu shouted as he fell over by his partner's side.

"Since you were kind enough to remind me, why don't we let history repeat itself?" King Basilikmon laughed as his eyes glowed an intense dark green color. Atop his forehead, a purple gem emerged while glowing profusely. "Petrifaction Beam!" With that, the demonic snake aimed at Mega Gargomon.

"NO! GET AWAY, MEGA GARGOMON!" Henbu shouted as he threw himself in front of his digimon. "I WON'T LET IT HAPPEN AGAIN!"

"HENRY! DON'T!"

The beams struck Henbu, engulfing the teen and instantly turning him to stone.

"Henry...?" Mega Gargomon gasped in horrifying disbelief. Just like that, his own Tamer sacrificed himself and took the attack for his partner. "No... HENRY!"

As Henbu's petrified form fell, the armored giant reached out and caught his Tamer. Mega Gargomon dodged a second beam attempt from King Basilikmon.

"No... Henry!" Jeri gasped in horror.

Kazu growled angrily. "YOU MONSTER!"

"You bastard... you're NOT getting away with this!" Youkai Inumon howled as he summoned a giant ball of fire. He threw it directly at King Basilikmon.

The snake turned as the fireball pelted his face. He grunted and staggered from the scorching blaze. Youkai Inumon immediately bombarded King Basilikmon with a volley of fireballs. These fireballs were the size of demolition wrecking balls and each blow repelled King Basilikmon from the Tamers. Phillipe jumped out of nowhere and rotated around King Basilikmon, turning himself into a tornado. While Phillipe distracted the demonic serpent, Himakko hopped atop of a metallic platform and used his magnetic powers to lift a set of steel reinforcements used for a building under construction. He threw his arms forward, launching the steel beams like spears. They quickly flew forward, but King Basilikmon managed to stop them by lifting his tail. He caught the steel reinforcements and discarded them. He then grabbed Phillipe with his tail and prepared to constrict him.

"LET HIM GO!" Artemismon cried out as she dropped down and slashed the snake's tail, using her sword. Her sword cut the tip of the snake's tip, releasing Phillipe. She dove in and caught the teenage boy.

"Thanks Artemismon," he coughed while drawing back air into his lungs.

"Don't mention it," the Amazon digimon said.

King Basilikmon gritted his teeth as he exerted pressure through his own body. Then, utilizing one of his newest abilities, he regenerated his lost tail.

"Heh, one of the perks of reaching a new level," King Basilikmon snickered as he watched Youkai Inumon jump up to regroup with Himakko. "Ah, my revenge will now be complete! You two will become my new garden ornaments!" He quickly fired beams towards Himakko and Youkai Inumon. "Petrifaction Beam!"

Youkai Inumon and Himakko whirled around as the beams headed toward them.

"I'll stop him!" Youkai Inumon summoned a burst of black flames out of his hands.

"NO!" Gallantmon quickly jumped in front of the two and raised his Aegis Shield. The beam turned the shield into stone, which Gallantmon discarded. "Lightning Joust!" With only a lance, the Exalted Knight fired a beam through his weapon.

King Basilikmon fired another pair of beams, which collided with Gallantmon's energy attack, and the two attacks cancelled each other out. Suzakato flew above King Basilikmon and turned into 'Supernova' mode. His entire body ignited with intense, spiritual flames. He spun around King Basilikmon, encircling the behemoth and burning his long body with his fire.

Suddenly, King Basilikmon noticed his entire body being slowly lifted off the ground. He lowered his head to see Kazu lifting him with his super strength, a trait picked up from his Victory of Light power. Andromon assisted Kazu in lifting the giant snake off the ground.

Angedramon dove in as she fired blasts from her mouth, sending them toward King Basilikmon. Jeri flew over the serpent's head and tried projecting her mind into the creature's own subconscious brain.

"No, that's quite enough! You think you can defeat me as I am?" King Basilikmon hissed, enraged by being bombarded by the Tamers' attacks from all sides. In addition to the metahuman teens, the Tamers' digimon were adding fuel to the fire. His eyes turned dark green. Ash he pivoted his head, he fired beams down at Kazu and Andromon.

"KAZU! LOOK OU-!"

"WHA-? OH NO!" Kazu was silenced for good as green light covered his body.

The beams struck both the Victory Tamer and Andromon, turning both of them to stone.

"KAZU!" Kenta cried out.

"DAMN YOU!" Suzakato bellowed angrily as he body slammed himself into King Basilikmon's gut.

King Basilikmon hissed in pain as the Warrior of Suzaku repeatedly fired heat blasts at the snake's belly. The serpent reeled back as he uncoiled himself and glided upward to avoid Suzakato. Taking no chances, King Basilikmon fired more beams. Kenta and Marine Angemon were quickly caught by the beams, and Marine Angemon was too late to defend them with a bubble. Another beam hurtled toward Seirika and Sakuyamon.

"No! Rika! Sakuyamon!" Suzakato rocketed toward his girlfriend and her partner.

As Seirika raised her head, she opened her eyes to see the serpent's beam closing in on her.

"What's that light-"

"RIKA!" Sakuyamon yelled as she pushed her Tamer aside. With Rika out of the way, she took the full brunt of King Basilikmon's attack.

Seirika screamed out in shock as she witnessed her partner turned to stone. "SAKUYAMON!"

Suzakato flew over by Seirika and helped up to her feet. They looked over to Sakuyamon and expressed fury toward King Basilikmon's blatant disregard for other lives.

"She sacrificed herself... no..." Seirika clenched her fists. "That bastard. He's going to..."

"GAH!" Another pair of screams echoed out until they were silenced immediately afterward.

"NO! PHILLIPE! ARTEMISMON!" Himura cried out.

Suzakato and Seirika whirled around as their faces paled with fright. They saw both Artemismon and Phillipe on the ground, both turned into stone. Himakko and Youkai Inumon were already by their petrified friends' sides. The Warrior of Byakko dropped to both knees, feeling that he failed to protect Phillipe. Jeri flew down by Himakko and put her arms around him.

"UGH!" Angedramon grunted as King Basilikmon slapped her aside with his tail. Her entire body glowed as she dedigivolved back into Felinismon. Jeri turned and raced over to her digimon's side. "I... couldn't take him. He's... too strong..."

Youkai Inumon took no chances and flew off to attack King Basilikmon.

Gallantmon, who was closer, stabbed the snake's left eye with his lance.

"AUGH!" The serpent hissed as he felt his entire eye pop out of its socket. He pivoted his head and threw Gallantmon off. While rubbing the area where his eye used to be, Youkai Inumon rocketed toward the serpent and repelled him with another volley of dark fireballs. Then, he summoned a giant flame storm that turned into a black, flaming wolf.

"Heh, not so fast-"

"THIS ONE'S FOR HENRY!"

As King Basilikmon turned, he was met with Mega Gargomon's giant right hand. King Basilikmon collapsed on a nearby building and tilted on his side. Mega Gargomon seized King Basilikmon's tail and swung him overhead, lifting the serpent into mid-air. He slammed King Basilikmon to the ground and punched him in the face. King Basilikmon snapped back from the armored giant's closed fist.

"YOU'RE NOT GETTING AWAY WITH THIS! GAAAUGH!" Mega Gargomon bellowed while punching King Basilikmon's face.

Suddenly, the snake's body vanished from Mega Gargomon's reach. Everyone looked up as King Basilikmon reappeared above the. Raising his head, he opened his mouth and released a giant orb of green light. As the orb floated in front of the demonic serpent, the expanded and detonated, releasing beams of light that rained down on the Tamers and the digimon.

"PARADISE MAELSTROM!" King Basilikmon roared out from the heavens, implementing his powerful area attack.

Suzakato shouted at the top of his lungs. "GUYS! MOVE!"

However, it was too late. The beams all blasted through sections of the Shinjuku district, blowing through buildings and striking each Tamer. Suzakato, Seirika, Himakko, and Jeri were all knocked back by the beams. The three Beast Tamers were left laying sprawled and demorphed back into their normal human forms. Jeri, too, was out of it. The digimon were shot by the beams, causing Gallantmon, Youkai Inumon, and Mega Gargomon to dedigivolve back to their rookie forms.

In less than five minutes, King Basilikmon had completely decimated Shinjuku's local heroes: the Digimon Tamers and their digimon partners. Although, the demonic serpent wasn't satisfied as he realized that the Tamers were not fighting at 100 percent after their brief skirmish with the Demon Corps.

Nonetheless, he set to carry out Charon and the Prophet's wishes.

"Just as you've ordered, I left the Tamers and their digimon broken. My wrath was far too great to overcome," King Basilikmon murmured. "A part of me wishes to kill them in their vulnerable states, but as you request... I shall withdraw."

Suddenly, the Prophet's voice telepathically spoke to King Basilikmon. 'We're merely testing these heroes and their powers. Don't worry... you'll have your chance to exact your full revenge on the two you wish to destroy. Now, return immediately.'

"Very well," the serpent scoffed as he narrowed his now one-eyed gaze toward Himura and Inumon. A wicked chuckled escaped the reptilian monster's lips. "I'll spare you for now, but only until we meet again. Heh, I took away another dear friend from you. But, hey, perhaps you can save him... unlike Kotori." Thanks to my new evolved form, I can petrify them without my jewel, but it's not as permanent as it was before. "Bah, what a waste. Farewell, Tamers. Let's see how you manage to recover from this."

With that, a giant black portal opened up. King Basilikmon glided through the portal and returned to the mysterious realm where Charon and the Prophet awaited him.

Meanwhile, as the serpent departed, Yamaki, Janyuu, Riley, and Talley raced out of the government building.

"HENRY!" Janyuu hurried toward his petrified son and embraced the statue. "Henry! How could this happen to you?"

Yamaki gritted his teeth with anger. "That monster managed to defeat all of them at once?"

"We were too late to warn them," Talley lowered her head, sighing with regret. "That anomaly breached our world faster than we could detect it."

Riley turned toward Yamaki. "Mitsuo, find out what's happening in the Digital World! Talley, let's tend to the kids!" She immediately said to her colleague as they hurried over to check on the other Tamers.

"Judging by what just happened... I'm guessing hell's already broken loose," the man alluded to a forthcoming uprising from within the Digital World. Takato, how can you all recover from this? If one enemy was able to defeat them this easily, I dread what horrifying new digimon have evolved during these times of peace.

xxxxx

Domino City/Four Blocks from the Royal Flush Arcade/12:40 PM

"Red-Eyes Black Metal Dragon! Take out this jerk's remaining Life Points!" Joey declared.

The Red-Eyes Black Metal Dragon fired a burst of fire that blasted the Paradais Knight's Vampire Lord into oblivion.

"NO!" The Paradais Knight roared out as his defeated monster exploded in front of him. The explosion knocked the Knight back and sent him rolling across the pavement while his cards scattered. His own Duel Disk was destroyed in the process, which was the end result for any duelist with cuffs locked on their devices.

Joey was a little worse for wear after the opponent's monsters pummeled his own monsters. He limped a little toward the fallen Slifer Red student. He sustained bruises on his left arm, a cut on his cheek, and his left leg sustained a slight knee injury.

Ignoring the nagging pain from his duel, Joey scoffed as he glared down at the Knight. "Who the hell sent you?" He knelt over and lifted the student by his shirt.

"Not going to tell... ehehe."

"We'll see," the blonde-haired male Duelist dropped the Paradais Knight. He yanked the cable attached. Damn, I hope no one else got caught up in a duel with these punks. What the hell is going on here? Those monsters of his attacked for real... and I got the battle scars to prove it!

xxxxx

Alleyway/12:41 PM

"Jinzo, attack her Dark Magician Girl and end this duel!" An unfamiliar voice shouted. It came from another one of the Paradais Knights, who was locked in a duel with Tea Gardner.

Once Jinzo blasted the Dark Magician Girl, Tea cried out as her Life Points went down to zero. Fortunately, Tea's monster absorbed most of the impact. Compared to Joey, she only sustained a few bruises from the attacks by her opponent's monsters. She watched in horror as her Duel Disk exploded and sent all of her cards flying out. The defeated girl fell to her knees as the Paradais Knight snorted irritably.

"That was pathetically easy!" The Paradais Knight turned his back to Tea. "Oh well. You snooze, you lose, bitch. Time to find some real competition." With that, the Slifer Red student hurried out of the alleyway.

Staring over her demolished Duel Disk, Tea yanked it off. "I can't believe I lost. My Duel Disk..." She picked up her cards, but then noticed Joey limping across the street. "JOEY! OVER HERE!"

Pivoting his head, Joey noticed his friend calling out to him. He hurried (as far as his leg could take him) toward Tea and stopped to notice her destroyed Duel Disk.

"This creep destroyed my Duel Disk and ran off..."

"Was he wearing one of those red Duel Academy uniforms?"

"Yeah, why?"

Joey answered. "Another one of those creeps forced me into a duel, but I kicked his sorry rear. They attach these cables called 'duel cuffs' to duelists. The loser's Duel Disks are quickly destroyed."

"Yeah, and I lost..." Tea sighed sadly. "I was getting into the dueling spirit, but..."

"Don't sweat it. We need to find Yugi and the others."

Tea nodded. "Right before anyone else gets jumped by these creeps."

"Yugi's dueling one of them right now, but I know Yug can take 'em."

"I hope you're right, Joey. What in the world is going on here?"

"These bastards must be the ones sending all those duelists to the hospital! I bet their picking them off, one by one."

"That's terrible. We can't let this go on any longer!"

The blonde-haired Duelist asserted. "Yeah, but let's not waste any time. Let's move."

"Right!" Tea said. "Though, you're limping. Did you...?"

"It's nothing serious, Tea. Let's go."

"Whatever you say."

xxxxx

Tokyo Bridge/12:43 PM

The Legendary Warriors brought the fight to the Neo-Dark Masters. For a while, it was a standstill. It seemed Piedmon and his elite crew were gaining an upper hand, but the Ten Warriors proved to be too efficient. With prior experience from battling stronger enemies, the Legendary Warriors overwhelmed the Neo-Dark Masters and their fleets.

Piedmon was baffled by how strong Kaiser Greymon proved to be. Even his last resort, the handkerchief, was easily brushed aside like it was nothing.

"Damn you! To think we underestimated your strength, Legendary Warriors," Piedmon scowled with frustration. He jumped out of Kaiser Greymon's reach and floated adrift in mid-air. The others aren't faring well, either. I hate to do this, but this calls for a tactical retreat.

"Going somewhere, Piedmon?" Kaiser Greymon exclaimed.

"We have more important matters to attend to," The Dark Master rebuked while levitating higher, "but this won't be the last time you'll see us! I vow that you and your petty friends will meet your end in the Digital World. Be prepared, for the impending war that'll affect all the Digital Worlds and your own home world!" The wicked clown laughed out loud.

As the Warrior of Flame heard this from Piedmon, Kaiser Greymon tensely glared up at Piedmon and jumped up to attack Piedmon.

Piedmon called out to his other three colleagues and the remaining Nightmare Soldiers. "Retreat! Our mission was a failure!"

As King Etemon watched his WaruMonzaemon fleeing, the new Dark Master snorted with irritation. "What are ya'll, wimps? They're just a bunch of measly kids!" He turned around as Reichmon jumped in front of him. "Whoa! Now, you should give the King sometime to prepare!" King Etemon jumped away from Reichmon and summoned a ball of energy in his right palm. "Have some of my Monkey Wrench, ya concert crasher!"

As King Etemon threw the orb, it landed in front of Reichmon and exploded. The end result of the explosion knocked Reichmon back, sending him flying off the bridge's edge.

"Kouichi!" Magna Garurumon shouted as he flew down and caught his brother from falling off the bridge. "I've got you!"

"Reichmon sighed with relief. "Thanks, Kouichi."

King Etemon chuckled as he hopped on a WaruMonzaemon's back. "If I had my Dark Network with me, ya'll would be kneeling before me!"

Daipenmon watched as King Etemon's forces retreated. He and the others noticed a vortex opening in the distance. The Nightmare Soldiers fled through the open vortex, retreating back into the Digital World.

"MARK MY WORDS, CHICKADEES! THIS GRAND TOUR ISN'T OVER!" King Etemon howled in a singsong tone, prompting the Legendary Warriors (and the other Dark Masters with ears) to cover their ears.

"Gah! Make him stop!" Rhino Kabuterimon griped as he tucked his head into his armored shell.

Devitamamon growled irately as he his own minions were retreating. A part of him refused to flee now that he was finally taking part in his first active battle out of the Digital World. However, he realized the true intentions of this sudden 'tactical retreat.'

"You've been spared for now, Legendary Warriors, but the next time we meet… I will see to it that I devour you!" Devitamamon vowed in a threatening manner. He quickly flew off with Gigadramon and Megadramon through the vortex.

"They're all running!" Jet Silphymon cried out. "That'll show them to mess with us!"

"You said it, girlie!" Calmaramon concurred with the Warrior of Wind.

Petaldramon grunted. "This skirmish didn't last long."

Mercuremon couldn't help but to agree. He observed the enemies entering the vortex. "Still, thou shouldn't taketh their threats lightly."

Walking by Petaldramon's side, Gigasmon panted for all the twisting and turning he had to do to perform. "Yeah, but… at least it's over."

"For now," Magna Garurumon asserted while descending near them with Reichmon. "This skirmish was nothing but a minor front."

Last but not least, Piedmon hopped atop Machinedramon's head and ordered the mechanical behemoth to pace toward the portal. However, Kaiser Greymon pursued the two Dark Masters.

"HOLD IT!" Kaiser Greymon roared out as he raised his sword. "You're not going anywhere! You don't just retreat when we're in the middle of a fight!"

The Warrior of Light scoffed irritably and flew ahead while calling out to his friend. "TAKUYA! WAIT!"

Of course, like the cheap shot artists they truly were, Piedmon and Machinedramon pivoted their heads and launched underhanded attacks – which repelled the Z-Hybrids back.

"Clown Trick!"

"Giga Cannon!"

Piedmon's magical beam caught Kaiser Greymon and repelled him to the ground. Machinedramon's simultaneous cannon beams pounded Magna Garurumon repeatedly, knocking him to the ground near Kaiser Greymon's prone body.

"No! Takuya! Kouji!" Jet Silphymon and Reichmon cried out as they were the first ones to fly over toward the fallen Z-Hybrids.

"You two aren't gonna get away with that!" Daipenmon growled angrily as he prepared to launch a counterattack against the Dark Masters.

Rhino Kabuterimon strolled right in front of Daipenmon, restraining the Warrior of Ice from recklessly provoking the villains.

"Let that be a lesson to you, Legendary Warriors," Piedmon decreed, his smile faded and was replaced with a somber frown. "This skirmish will pale in comparison to what's in store for you. I dare you to engage us in battle in the Digital World. Bring as many of your allies as you want. Even the Tamers won't better your chances, my friends."

Machinedramon deeply chuckled while shifting his massive head away. "And this time we won't have a fool like Pharaohmon running things."

"Indeed, the stakes will be even higher. But, do come and try to stop us. It will be YOUR grand finale!" Piedmon said as he took a bow while Machinedramon strode through the portal. "Until next time, Legendary Warriors."

As the behemoth and the clown disappeared in the vortex, the portal sealed up and left the Legendary Warriors behind with an ambiguous warning.

Piedmon kept referring to a 'major war' in the Digital World. Even Chaos Gallantmon made references to it as he forewarned the Tamers. Like the Tamers, the Legendary Warriors pondered this inquiry to themselves: What was truly going on in the Digital World?

"Takuya, can you hear me?" Jet Silphymon asked as she pressed her hands on Kaiser Greymon's chest. "Takuya!"

"Yeah… I'll manage, babe," Kaiser Greymon coughed, responding to his girlfriend's concern. He raised his head, slowly lifting his gigantic frame. "Kouji?"

"Don't worry. Luckily, those were just warning shots," Magna Garurumon replied as he, too, lifted his body off the ground. "We took a worse beating from Cherubimon, the Royal Knights, and Lucemon."

The Warrior of Fire concurred with Magna Garurumon's sentiments. "No kidding! I can't blame you there, Kouji."

"They described an impending war in the Digital World. What did Piedmon mean?" Reichmon construed Piedmon's warning.

Mercuremon responded to the Warrior of Darkness' inquiry. "We can't say for certain."

"But, it wouldn't hurt to contact Lord Seraphimon," said Gigasmon.

Kaiser Greymon nodded. "Yeah, he, Lady Ophanimon, and Lord Cherubimon should have the answers we're looking for."

Magna Garurumon asserted. "Agreed, but let's make it fast. There's no telling how much damage the Dark Masters are causing to the Digital World now."

"Not to mention they have new recruits. That Elvis wannabe and that egg freak with the big teeth!" Rhino Kabuterimon reminded his colleagues. "Sheesh, where did Piedmon get those two?"

"That King Etemon guy must be the same Etemon that the Digi-Destined faced. He mentioned something about his Dark Network," Daipenmon said.

"In any case, we have to stop the Neo-Dark Masters. Whatever they're planning, we're going to stop it!" Jet Silphymon declared.

Raising his voice, Petaldramon blurted out, "Then, what the hell are we waiting around here for? Let's get our asses in gear!"

"Yeah, really nice way of putting it, Petaldramon," Calmaramon rolled her eyes.

Kaiser Greymon didn't waste time as he pulled out his D-Scanner. "It's settled then. Time to make a call to ol' Seraphi-"

Suddenly, a projectile shot out of nowhere and knocked the D-Scanner out of Kaiser Greymon's hand. In response to this hasty attack, the Legendary Warriors scattered and scanned around the bridge. It didn't take long for Magna Garurumon to spot the perpetrator behind the attack.

"I see someone! Above us!" Magna Garurumon exclaimed.

Rhino Kabuterimon frowned as he noticed a hooded figure floating above them. "Who is that?"

"Did the Dark Masters leave a straggler behind?" Gigasmon wondered, gazing up at the figure.

"Hey! Did Piedmon send you to try and finish us off? Man, he must be desperate," Kaiser Greymon shouted irritably as he reached over to grab his D-Scanner.

The vague figure slowly descended as he spoke up. "Piedmon? Dark Masters? Ludicrous, I wouldn't be caught dead working for those clowns. No, my allegiance lies with a far greater entity, the likes of which you Legendary Warriors have yet to bear witness to!"

"Who are you?" Kaiser Greymon demanded as he picked up his D-Scanner. "Were you watching us?"

The figure chuckled as he slowly removed his hood. "I was observing you closely while you engaged the Dark Masters. I must say… I'm not impressed."

"Say what?" Jet Silphymon snapped.

"Allow me to introduce myself, Legendary Warriors," the figure pulled down his hood and ripped the cloak off his body.

The mysterious individual revealed himself as a fifteen-foot tall bipedal creature. Its entire hide was made of a black, leathery skin, with gray patches of metal plating on its shoulders, elbows, shins and side hips. Three rows of jagged spikes lined horizontally across its back, granting him a defense from being attacked from his blind spot. The creature's arms were largely muscular with grotesque veins exposed along his biceps and forearms. His head had a design that looked like a bat's silhouette spread across his face. The creature's slanted, tiny yellow eyes imbued with a sinister green glow. It had no visible mouth. The legs of the monster were thick with layers of hard muscle and layers of black hide. The creature let out a deep hiss as large, bony blades protruded out of its arms.

The Legendary Warriors were stunned in silence as they observed the mysterious monster.

"Ok, I wasn't expecting that," Petaldramon spoke up as he looked at the other Legendary Warriors. "What?"

Rhino Kabuterimon gulped as he shook his head. "Yeah... I'll reiterate what he said. I sure wasn't expecting this."

"I am Grendelmon," the creature introduced himself, his sinister voice deepened. "I came here to eliminate you."

Magna Garurumon frowned. "Grendelmon?"

"Oh yes. I know all about your A-Hybrid form, Warrior of Light, Beowulfmon," Grendelmon chuckled deeply as he methodically paced toward the Legendary Warriors. "How fitting that you and I may one day face each other, but not today. You and your meddlesome friends don't stand a chance against me."

Gigasmon growled irritably as he smashed his fists together. "This guy's running his mouth too much."

"All I need is one minute... no, maybe even thirty seconds to take you all out," Grendelmon bragged.

"Big talk from one single digimon. How YOU'RE even a digimon astounds me, but you picked the wrong time, pal!" The sword-wielding Kaiser Greymon shouted in defiance as he and Magna Garurumon pressed forward. "Ready, Magna Garurumon?"

"After dealing with the Dark Masters and their crew, this is nothing," the Warrior of Light decreed.

Grendelmon shook his head and sighed. "Underestimating your enemy. I thought you would've learned better, Legendary Warriors." He lowered his head while his eyes glowed like raging fire and turned neon green. "I might be only a mega-level digimon, but I've been bestowed with special abilities..."

Shoom.

Grendelmon vanished before everyone's eyes.

"What? He teleported?" Daipenmon shouted. Suddenly, he felt a sharp punch to his gut, then Grendelmon reappeared above the group with arms folded.

"Up here," Grendelmon chuckled as he casted a terrifying gaze on the Ten Legendary Warriors. "Oh, and I'm afraid I don't teleport. This is my actual speed, Warrior of Ice. Oh, and I believe this is yours?" The mysterious digimon held up Tomoki's D-Scanner. "An interesting device. With these, you can pull up a profile on any digimon you can find, provided that they are in your database. However, a few of us prefer to keep our backgrounds confidential."

"GIVE THAT BACK!" Daipenmon exclaimed.

"Ah-ah-ah... not without doing this..." Grendelmon collected a dark ball of energy in one hand and pressed it through the scanning port of Tomoki's D-Scanner. "Viral Infection Initiation. Terminate Spirits of Ice."

With that, Daipenmon gasped as rings of fractal coding encircled his form. The Warrior of Ice watched as he quickly transformed back to his human form. "What happened? He..."

"Tomoki! Your D-Scanner!" Rhino Kabuterimon exclaimed.

Grendelmon chuckled as he threw the D-Scanner down at Tomoki's feet. "I have the power to infect and destroy any device, including your D-Scanners. Your D-Scanner's been corrupted and thus I've cut off access to your spirits. You can't digivolve anymore."

"YOU BASTARD!" Petaldramon roared as he swung his tail at Grendelmon.

Grendelmon dodged the Warrior of Wood's long tail and vanished. The group quickly moved in to gang up on Grendelmon, but the viral digimon already reached Petaldramon's face. Long bony protrusions emerged out of Grendelmon's hand and stabbed Petaldramon's face. The Warrior of Wood couldn't move an inch as Grendelmon punched through Petaldramon's head and ripped out his D-Scanner.

"Viral Infection Initiation. Terminate Spirits of Wood."

Within a few seconds, Grendelmon infected and shut off Vega's D-Scanner. Fractal code rings appeared around Petaldramon as his massive frame shrunk back down to human size, leaving only Vega in the behemoth's place.

"Vega! Why you!" Mercuremon rushed in to attack Grendelmon. "Mirror-"

Grendelmon dashed right in front of Mercuremon and punched a hole through his mirror face. He yanked out the D-Scanner out of Mercuremon, infecting the device in hand.

"Viral Infection Initiation. Terminate Spirits of Metal."

Mercuremon collapsed in a heap on the ground while fractal code covered him. The Warrior of Metal turned back to Dimitro.

"Vega! Dimitro!" Kaiser Greymon shouted in disbelief. How the hell can he do this?

Grendelmon shifted his gaze toward Rhino Kabuterimon.

However, the Warrior of Thunder wasn't going down without a fight. He charged up an electrical blast through his massive horn. "You're not getting away with this! Take this! Thunder Laser!"

"Attack him, everyone! Don't let him get your D-Scanners!" Kaiser Greymon shouted out in command.

The other Legendary Warriors moved in to attack Grendelmon. Grendelmon raised his right hand and caught Rhino Kabuterimon's lightning blast. The viral digimon shoot three bony protrusions, which latched onto the Warrior of Thunder. He prodded and pulled out Junpei's D-Scanner.

"Viral Infection Initiation. Terminate Spirits of Thunder."

As he infected and shut down Junpei's D-Scanner, Rhino Kabuterimon groaned as fractal code covered him completely. The digimon turned back into Junpei and was left sitting on the ground. Grendelmon threw Junpei's, Vega's, and Dimitro's D-Scanners on the floor. Grendelmon turned around as he spotted the other six Legendary Warriors dashing in from all sides.

Kaiser Greymon, Magna Garurumon, Reichmon, Gigasmon, Jet Silphymon, and Calmaramon unleashed their attacks simultaneously.

"Dragonfire Crossbow!" The Warrior of Flame fired a successive barrage of fire blasts through his sword.

"Magna Missiles!" The Warrior of Light launched an assortment of missiles directly at his adversary.

"Black Theorem!" Reichmon shouted, firing a red beam through his spear

"Quagmire Twister!" Gigasmon cried out as he rotated and swung his fists around.

"Ultra Turbulence!" Jet Silphymon waved her whirlwind, unleashing a strong wind towards her enemy.

"Titanic Tempest!" Calmaramon rotated her body, flying up and landing in front of Grendelmon to impale him.

However, Grendelmon simply dashed through and evaded the incoming attacks. None one of the Legendary Warrior's attacks landed a single blow on Grendelmon. The viral digimon proved to be too fast on his feet. Then, he raced up to his next victim.

As Calmaramon tried yanking herself out of the ground, she raised her head and saw Grendelmon hovering in front of her.

"No..." Calmaramon murmured.

Grendelmon already held Jaarin's D-Scanner, quickly confiscating it from her hands.

"Viral Infection Initiation. Terminate Spirits of Water."

Just like that, Jaarin's D-Scanner became infected and its power abruptly shut down.

Calmaramon collapsed as she was engulfed in fractal code. As Calmaramon vanished, Jaarin lied on the ground in her place. Grendelmon approached Henry Wong's older sister and threw her D-Scanner next to her.

"NO! JAARIN!" Gigasmon cried out as he headed off to attack Grendelmon without a second thought.

Jaarin shouted in plea. "Get back, Gigasmon! You'll only lose your D-Scanner!"

"So nice of you to volunteer," Grendelmon turned, quickly picking out his next victim. He vanished and reappeared in front of Gigasmon. Thrusting his right arm forward, he punched Gigasmon and knocked him out with a single blow. He then plunged his hand through Gigasmon's right leg and yanked out his D-Scanner. "There we go. Was that so bad?"

"SAM!" Jaarin screamed in horror.

"Viral Infection Initiation. Terminate Spirits of Earth."

Sharing the same fate as his friends and girlfriend, Gigasmon's power was cut off. His D-Scanner was infected and access to his spirit powers was nullified. Gigasmon turned back into Sam Joseph, who was down on his knees. Grendelmon dropped Sam's D-Scanner on the ground and left the young man behind to lament over his defeat.

"Only four remain," Grendelmon shifted his attention toward the Warriors of Flame, Light, Darkness, and Wind.

Junpei called out to the remaining four. "Get away guys! You four are all that's left!"

"RUN!" Tomoki exclaimed. "Get to Seraphimon and the others! Hurry!"

Kaiser Greymon growled. "No, we can't! We're not leaving you!"

Reichmon gripped his spear and scowled angrily. "Here he comes, guys!"

"I've chosen my next victim!" Grendelmon declared as he vanished and reappeared in front of Magna Garurumon "You."

Suddenly, the Warrior of Darkness threw himself in front of his brother. Grendelmon went ahead and punched through Reichmon's chest. "Viral Infection Initiation. Terminate Spirits of Darkness."

"NO! KOUICHI!" The Warrior of Light exclaimed in horror, seeing his own brother offering himself as a sacrifice. "Don't let him..."

"You can't let him take your D-Scan-" Reichmon abruptly stopped as fractal code covered him. His digimon form faded and he turned back into Kouichi.

Grendelmon snorted in contempt as he threw Kouichi and his D-Scanner to the ground.

"Kouichi! No!" Magna Garurumon wasted no time and dove toward Grendelmon. He caught the mysterious digimon with a rapid punch, which caused Grendelmon's head to snap back. "You're going to pay for what you've done!"

Grendelmon snapped his head back and shot a rather composed glare. His eyes glowed profusely orange, indicating an abrupt change in his mood. His composed nature was replaced with an impulsive, enraged demeanor. Grendelmon straightened his posture and growled, slowly shifting the area where his mouth was concealed. Grendelmon's bottom jaw opened, revealing a mouth filled with long, sharp, knife shaped teeth. He also produced a long, sticky green tongue while grotesque green saliva dripped out of the creature's mouth.

"Um, Kouji?" Jet Silphymon backed off.

"You think you can scare me by changing your face!" Magna Garurumon threw his right hand, punching Grendelmon square in the forehead.

"KOUJI!" Kaiser Greymon roared out as he flew in to attack Grendelmon's backside.

Grendelmon bellowed out with psychotic laughter as he vanished out of sight again.

Before Jet Silphymon could respond, a powerful blow pounded her gut. The Warrior of Wind gasped, collapsing with the wind knocked out of her. Grendelmon yanked Izumi's D-Scanner out of her stomach and infected it.

"Viral Infection Initiation. Terminate Spirits of Wind."

Jet Silphymon turned back into Izumi and was thrown to the ground. Grendelmon tossed the girl's infected D-Scanner by her side.

"Izumi! Damn you... bastard!" Kaiser Greymon roared as he tried to impale Grendelmon.

Unfortunately for the Z-Hybrids, Grendelmon quickly blasted them energy blasts from his mouth. Kaiser Greymon was knocked back several feet near the edge of the bridge. Magna Garurumon was sent crashing into a nearby abandoned car.

"Pitiful, is this really the power of the Ten Legendary Warriors that conquered Lucemon?" Grendelmon growled as he wiped the green saliva from his lips. Shifting his gaze at Magna Garurumon, Grendelmon's eyes glowed and released beams that hit Kouji's D-Scanner. "Viral Infection Initiation. Terminate Spirits of Light."

As he slowly tried to stand up, Magna Garurumon shrank down to human size and turned back into Kouji.

Finally, it didn't take long for Grendelmon point his eye beams directly at Kaiser Greymon.

"Viral Infection Initiation. Terminate Spirits of Flame." Grendelmon droned as his voice altered back to normal. "With that, the Ten Legendary Warriors have been conquered. Unless you can find a capable anti-virus to counteract my viral infection, you'll never Spirit Evolve again. It all ends here for you, Legendary Warriors."

Kaiser Greymon sighed out of exhaustion as his body collapsed. He turned back into Takuya and lay prone on the ground.

Grendelmon growled angrily as he rushed over towards Takuya and kicked his stomach. Then, to further vent out his frustrations, he noticed Kouji sitting up. Grendelmon's eyes glowed profusely, preparing to incinerate Kouji on sight.

Suddenly, Grendelmon paused as the Prophet's voice interrupted him. 'Stop what you're doing, Grendelmon. You are not supposed to kill them. You simply had to deactivate their D-Scanners. Your mission is over. Pull out. King Basilikmon has returned to our quarters.'

Hesitant at first, Grendelmon wanted to do away with the defenseless Legendary Warriors. He noticed the group of ten teens and young adults facing him with disdained looks. Grendelmon shut off the energy flowing in his eyes and turned his back to the Legendary Warriors.

"So, be it," Grendelmon scoffed as he leapt off the edge of the bridge.

"HEY, YOU! GET BACK HERE!" Takuya exclaimed as he jumped out and tried to grab Grendelmon's foot. "You better get back here!"

As Takuya watched Grendelmon descend into the waters, a giant vortex opened up out of nowhere. Grendelmon passed through the vortex and returned back to the dimension where Paradais awaited him.

"Grendelmon, I won't forget this..." Takuya gritted his teeth while holding onto his D-Scanner firmly. He casted his eyes on his D-Scanner and noticed the screen was static. "He... he actually cut us off from summoning our spirits?"

"Takuya! I can't believe this is happening!" Tomoki exclaimed. "How are we going to reach Seraphimon now?"

"Our D-Scanners... they've been shut off. That creep..." Junpei stammered, completely dismayed by the outcome of the battle.

"How are we going to Spirit Evolve if he comes back?" Sam dreaded the worst possible outcomes.

Jaarin pressed her D-Scanner against her chest. "This can't be happening. It's a nightmare."

"No, we have to try and contact Seraphimon and the Celestial Angels," Kouichi spoke up as he lifted himself off the ground. "Even if our Spirit powers have been cut off, we must try to contact them."

"Kouichi!" Kouji blurted out as he walked over by his brother's side. "It's worth a try, Takuya."

"Kouji, he called himself Grendelmon. He also claims to have no affiliation with the Dark Masters..." Kouichi proclaimed as he reminded his brother. "Maybe, you should've become Beowulfmon."

Kouji lowered his head and frowned. "He never even gave me a chance. None of us were ready for him. His power... his speed... he overwhelmed all of us." What kind of monsters have been appearing these last few years in the Digital World? Is there truly going to be a great impending crisis?

"Go for it, Takuya," Vega supported this idea. "I don't want to have to tell Ami about what happened to me."

"It's imperative that we speak with them about our current dilemma," Dimitro said. "Both about the Digital World and our skirmish with this Grendelmon."

"Right, I'm on it, guys," Takuya didn't put up any resistance and pressed a button on his D-Scanner. "Let's hope this works. Hopefully, they can find a way to fix our D-Scanners and neutralize that freak's virus." C'mon, you. Work! The sooner we contact Seraphimon, the better! Our chances are looking terribly grim if we don't get our D-Scanners fixed soon!

xxxxx

Shibuya District/Local Shopping District/12:47 PM

The Kuiper Belt Senshi managed to destroy remnants of the Rajita army that attacked Shibuya. Sailor Sedna finished off the last remaining alien enemies, fully utilizing her Valkyrie ice powers.

"Yeah, that'll show these freaks!" Sailor Orcus bragged on about their victory.

"They were troublesome, but we managed to take them out easily," Sailor Ixion said.

Sailor Varuna scanned around the vicinity while brushing her hair aside. "That's it? Where's the challenge in this?"

"Now, now, this isn't a competition, Varuna," Sedna lectured her eldest teammate. "We were trying to clean up the streets and that's what we did."

Lucy concurred. "Yes, and with that riff-raff out of the way, we can aid the other Senshi."

Desi asserted. "We should head out to Juuban Park. They're facing more Rajita soldiers there."

"Ah, but they should be fine. They have their Valkyrie forms and they can easily kick their butts!" Sailor Eris promptly stated.

"Yeah, but it's a good idea if we still went over there and lend them some support," Sailor Quaoar said. "It's our responsibility to aid our fellow Senshi."

The Ice Senshi smiled, nodding her head in approval. "Quaoar has the right idea, guys. Now, c'mon, let's get a move o-"

BOOM!

BOOM!

A series of energy blasts rained down and dotted the streets, igniting massive explosions. This abrupt assault garnered the attention of the Kuiper Belt Senshi as they jumped back from the explosive blasts. The girls distanced themselves from what could've been a disaster if they remained too close.

"What in the hell was that?" Varuna shouted.

Sedna shifted her gaze towards the billowing smoke clouds. Her eyes narrowed fiercely as she noticed an ominous figure walking out of the billowing clouds. The Kuiper Senshi and the two dogs, too, faced the same direction as their team leader.

"I see something... someone coming this way," Sedna informed her team. She clenched her fists, waiting to verify the identity of this 'attacker.' "Whatever it is... here it comes."

The group heard a deep chuckled being uttered behind the smoke cloud. Initially, they didn't recognize the voice at first. Then, as the winds pushed the smoke clouds away, the ominous figure was revealed to the group.

It was the monster that assisted Sailor Heavy Metal Papillon and her Neo-Animamates.

"Nix?" Sedna exclaimed, her mouth gaped in shock.

"Isn't that...?" Eris gasped.

Orcus frowned as she recognized him. "He worked with the Neo-Animamates!"

"Why...? Why did you attack us?" Sailor Sedna cried out, demanding an immediate response from the creature. "We thought you left with the Animamates? Did they return to face us again?"

Nix ceased his deep laughter. "Oh no. This has nothing to do with the Animamates anymore. I left Papillon once you crushed her pride, Sailor Sedna."

"What? You mean... you departed? So, this is just you? Attacking us?"

"You have it all figured out, Sedna," Nix chuckled as he opened his massive cyclopean eye. "For a girl your age, you have the perception of an aged veteran."

"No, I just know how my enemy thinks. That simple," the Ice Senshi retorted candidly. "So, you're just out to get us back for defeating the Animamates. Papillon left after she realized what I told her that her actions were wrong."

"I was nothing but a spy. I was sent undercover to watch you collect your group, and it'll be my duty to destroy you as you stand now," the creature raised his arms, forming two energy balls in his hands. "Sailor Sedna, you especially are someone who my true masters want gone from this world. The syndicate I've been loyal to is beginning to shift its plans forward. Kuiper Belt Senshi, we shall seal your fates."

Varuna scoffed. "Enough about this fate bullshit... you picked a fight with us and now we're going to make you regret it."

Quaoar nodded as she assumed a fighting stance. "Whoever this group is, we and the other Senshi will stop you."

Nix chuckled deeply. "Oh, trust me. By the time one of my partners is done with them, you're going to be easy pickings for my masters."

What does he mean by that? Sailor Sedna initially thought as she saw Nix fly towards her group. "Here he comes, guys! Spread out!"

"RIGHT!" The Kuiper Belt Senshi shouted as they spread across the area.

As for Lucy and Desi, the dogs hurried over behind a bush and watched the Kuiper Senshi engage Nix in battle.

Sailor Sedna raised her Ice Trident and summoned a giant icicle. "Sedna Icicle Spear!" She quickly launched the giant ice spear toward Nix, who caught it with his claws and poured out dark energy. The icicle spear melted from the dark energy flow, which annoyed Sedna.

Sedna flew toward Nix and threw out a volley of icicles at the creature. Nix teleported out of Sedna's ice projectiles. Then, he reappeared behind Sedna and attempted to smash her with his fists. Sedna whirled around and countered his blow while raising her trident. As Sedna and Nix were locked in a struggle, the Ice Senshi was surrounded by a wisps of light blue energy. Nix noticed as he felt a freezing chill being near Sedna.

"Big mistake, Nix," Sedna lectured the creature. "Underestimate me and I'll raise to the occasion."

Suddenly, Nix began to laugh as if mocking the Ice Senshi's determined valor.

"Oh no. I believe it's the other way around, dear Sedna," Nix smirked as he vanished out of Sedna's view and reappeared above her. In less than a second, Nix already collected a massive sphere of dark energy. "I purposely made myself look weak just to give you a false sense of hope! Think again, I no longer have any reason to restrain myself! Now, die, Sailor Sedna!"

"NOT SO FAST!" Varuna roared out as she jumped up behind Nix and swung her axe, attempting to cut him in half.

Nix teleported out of Varuna's reach and reappeared above her. He shot an elbow directly into Varuna, sending her falling in a heap on the street. Ixion, Eris, Orcus, and Quaoar hurried over toward Varuna, who was sprawled on the ground.

"Varuna!" Sedna called out.

Just then, Nix reappeared by Sedna's side and whispered. "You friends aren't even at the level necessary to face me. However, you are a different matter. Your cohorts are merely meddlesome distractions."

"My friends aren't..." Sedna whirled around as she impaled Nix with her trident. "...DISTRACTIONS!" She screamed out as she slammed Nix into the ground and yanked her trident out of the monster. "How dare you insult my friends! What the hell do you know about friends? Oh, that's right. You use people. You didn't care whether I'd kill Papillon or not! So much for your loyalty and all that other bull crap!" She raised her trident and prepared to stab him again. "Any last words? Huh?"

Varuna overheard Sedna as Quaoar helped her up. "...Karin." This is one of those rare times when she gets REALLY pissed.

"Finish him, Sedna!" Eris called out.

"Yeah! Show this joker who he's dealing with!" Orcus cheered her friend on.

Just as Sedna raised her trident...

Nix tilted his head and fired a massive beam out of his eye. The charged beam was sent directly toward one massive target.

The other Kuiper Belt Senshi.

Sedna turned and shouted toward her friends. "Guys... GET OUT OF THE WAY!"

"Girls! Move!" Desi and Lucy barked out as they sprang out of the bushes.

Sailor Sedna flew out to counter Nix's beam.

It was too late.

BA-BOOM!

A massive explosion caught The Kuiper Belt Senshi, sending them flying across the area. They screamed while being thrown across the streets. Varuna and Quaoar were thrown against a nearby car. Ixion crashed through a store window. Orcus was knocked into a mailbox. Eris crashed into a light post as her head hit the back of the long metal stand.

"ERIS!" Lucy and Desi cried out. "GIRLS!"

Sedna whirled around as her eyes turned white. Nix cackled madly as he goaded the Ice Senshi to attack him. The Ice Senshi didn't waste time as she bumrushed Nix and punched him in the face. The creature sidestepped Sedna's punch and twisted around her. He seized Sedna's right arm and applied an armlock.

"Attacking blind in anger, eh?" Nix chuckled as he pressed himself against Sedna's back. "Dear child, you may be a seasoned warrior and a dimension traveler, but you have yet to control your rage. You can't expect to defeat me if you're blinded by your own rage. Your friends... let's face it. Even as Eternal Senshi, they don't stand a chance against the syndicate I'm associated with. Paradais is looking to change this world."

"Paradais?" Sedna gritted her teeth as Nix tightened his grip, overpowering her. Where is he getting this strength?

The creature continued on with the ominous warning. "Be prepared. If you truly want to avenge your fallen friends, then make sure they're all up to your level. I'd rather fight you all when you're at your Valkyrie stages."

"ALL OF US?"

"Yes."

Sedna scoffed. "You're crazy! Don't think I'll let you get away with what you did to my friends!"

"They're not dead, Sedna. But, next time, they might not be so lucky!" Nix chuckled, twirling a lock of Sedna's brunette hair with his claws. "Oh, and one more thing." He whispered into the girl's ear, hinting at a revelation. "A certain someone from one of your many escapades is dying to see you."

While Nix pushed Sedna back, the Ice Senshi retaliated and summoned a giant ice spear at him. "Bastard! Who are you referring to?"

"You'll know when the time comes, Sailor Sedna. In the meantime, I only leave you with that vague message," Nix said as he levitated off the ground. "Your precious Kuiper Senshi will need to be ready if and when we strike again. But, mark my words. You won't be as lucky as you are today. Consider what I did to your friends a warning shot. Next time, I won't hesitate to pull the trigger and finish them."

"GET BACK HERE!" Sedna shouted as she flew up and prepared to shot her icicle spear.

From out of nowhere, a vortex appeared behind Nix. The creature waved out as he was pulled in directly into the portal. Before Sedna could reach him, the vortex sealed away. Sailor Sedna cursed out of irritation and immediately descended to where her friends were left laying scattered.

Sedna closed her eyes and sensed life signals in each of her friends. "Good. You guys are still kicking."

"Yes, but they'll need our care," Desi said as she licked Eris' face.

Lucy returned as she finished checking on the other Kuiper Senshi. "Thank goodness they're alive. That blast... I thought they would've been killed!"

"They weren't, but Nix said that was a warning shot. Lucy, Desi, we seriously need to get the girls ready to reach the Valkyrie level soon. I mean, if what Nix says is true, this Paradais group sounds like big trouble."

"You're right, but we need the Moon Heart Crystal to make that happen. Sailor Moon has it in her possession and we'll need to ask her to grant them their Valkyrie powers," Desi proclaimed, reminding the Kuiper Senshi leader.

Nodding her head, Sedna looked at her five friends. "First things first, let's get them healed." With that, Sedna pulled out her Valkyrie Dagger.

"Let's hurry, Sedna," Lucy advised the Ice Senshi. "We must get to the other Senshi as quickly as we can."

The Ice Senshi replied. "I'm on it." As she walked over to Sailor Eris, she lowered her dagger and prepared to channel her instrument's healing magic. Don't worry, guys. I'll make this up to you. You'll become Valkyrie Senshi and we'll face this Paradais group head-on. But... first the Rajita randomly reappear and Nix hints at this fearsome Paradais group. Are we really going to deal with multiple enemies? Yeah, this really is the best time to get the girls prepared. I really dread this is just the beginning.

While Sedna's dagger imbued with mystical energy, Eris felt her entire body being coated in a warm, translucent white aura. Eris' face contorted while barely turning her head.

Sedna closed her eyes and sighed, concentrating on healing her friend. I need to control my emotions, or else I might wind up killed. For you guys, I will do my best to lead you by example. Just like you have, Sailor Moon. The Rajita? Paradais? Doesn't matter who faces us, we'll be ready for you next time. But, Pluto... where are you?

xxxxx

Domino City Park/12:51 PM

Syrus cried out as his opponent's Magical Android destroyed Steam Gyroid. In a stunning outcome, Syrus was defeated in short order. As a result of the loss, Syrus' Duel Disk was destroyed by the 'duel cuffs' the Paradais Knight applied to his device.

"No... it can't be!" Syrus gawked in horrifying shock as the Duel Disk fell out of his hands. He fell and grabbed his left arm, which he slightly hurt during the duel. "How did you make our monsters actually inflict damage to us?"

"A little magic." The Paradais Knight remarked as he turned away and shut off his Duel Disk. "Looks like the brother of Zane Truesdale isn't all he's cracked up to be!" He grabbed his left wrist, which he injured after being attacked by Syrus' monsters during the duel.

"You ambushed me!"

"Yes, I did and I'll do it to your other friends. One by one, we're going to take out the best Domino City and Duel Academy has to offer," the Paradais Knight declared with a conniving grin. "This city will become OUR domain! You Duel Academy losers had your time in the spotlight. Farewell, loser." With that, the Slifer Red student raced off to locate the other noteworthy duels.

Nonetheless, Syrus didn't let this deter him from finding his friends.

"I've got to catch up with the others... they can't lose their duels. Jay... be careful with the guy you're dueling," Syrus said as he picked up his broken Duel Disk and ran across. "These aren't just disgruntled duelists. They mean business!" Along the way, he grabbed his hurt arm and winced. "Magic? Well, that's the only way he could explain how our monsters were able to hurt each other. I hope Jaden and the others haven't be seriously hurt against these guys!"

xxxxx

Outside of Domino City Museum/12:52 PM

"GAH!" A Paradais Knight duelist shouted in defeat as his monster, Blade Knight, was vanquished by a powerful fusion monster: the VWXYZ Dragon Catapult Cannon. As he fell to his knees, the Paradais Knight watched his Life Points decrease to zero, which lead to his Duel Disk exploding.

Chazz smirked with evil satisfaction as he approached the duelist. "Don't mess with The Chazz, you loser."

"No, how could I lose to you?" The Slifer Red duelist yanked his broken Duel Disk and dashed toward Chazz.

This duel ended rather quickly as Chazz easily dispatched his opponent. The only damage he received was a cut on his right cheek. The dark, spiky-haired teen scoffed as he sidestepped the duelist and slammed him against a side wall. Chazz seized the duelists' right arm and pinned him against the wall.

"Who sent for you? And what is this Paradais nonsense you've been spewing?"

"You should be worried about your friends. Don't you care what will happen when my colleagues defeat them?"

Chazz snorted irritably as he threw the duelist to the ground. "Those punks aren't going to lose to your little peanut gallery. You guys are chump change."

"Don't be so sure..."

Chazz kicked the duelist in the face and left him laying out cold. He pivoted his attention toward the Paradais Knight's fallen card deck and the cuffs he used. Nah, I have to admit. He used some really strong cards, but what the heck is this Paradais he kept mentioning? I know I've heard that name before... Bah, I'll figure this out later.

With that, Chazz headed off to locate his fellow Duel Academy classmates.

"You better not lose to that guy, Jaden. The only guy who gets to beat you is me!"

xxxxx

Azabu-Juuban District/Juuban Park/12:53 PM

"All right, guys! Time to end this!" Sailor Moon declared as she and the other Valkyrie Senshi's armors started to glow. They already fused their animal spirits with themselves, augmenting their overall power. "Rajita, this is a message to your new leader! Let him or her know that we're not going to be put down!"

Vespan gasped in awe and dismay as he and his Imperfect soldiers prepared to retreat.

However, the Valkyrie Senshi would not let them escape.

Even Tuxedo Kamen wasn't about to let them get away.

Kamen lunged at a Caiman and buried his right hand into the creature's chest. "Die!" The man opened up his palm, releasing a golden flare of light that engulfed the soldier and vaporized him completely.

"No! We must escape, Corporal Vespan!" One of the Caiman requested, in fear of losing his life.

Vespan concurred with his subordinate. "You're right! We must report back to Lord Ga- No! NO!"

Sailor Moon glided toward Vespan and kicked him in the face. Vespan's head snapped back from Moon's vicious kick. Then, the Moon Princess raised her scepter and fired a white burst of light at him. "Silver Moon Crystal Power Therapy Kiss!"

Vespan screamed out his final cries as Moon reduced him to dust.

xxxxx

Sailor Mars reached the Caiman she faced earlier and goaded him to attack her.

The Caiman quickly brushed her off and raced off from the Valkyrie.

Mars pursued the Caiman and glided across. As she flew, a fiery construct surrounded her and boosted her flight speed. She quickly caught up to the Caiman and fired a burst of flames that swallowed the alien.

"PLEASE! MERCY!"

She ignored his pitiful pleas. "Mars Flare Arrow!" She conjured a flaming arrow out of her fiery aura and blasted him.

"GAUGH!" The Caiman screamed as his body was reduced to dust.

The Miko Senshi stood over the alien's dust remains and frowned. "Beg like a coward, die like one."

xxxxx

As the cyborg used Mercury's own energy against her, Sailor Mercury put up a water shield in front to stop the successive hand blasts. Mercury casually paced across, causing the cyborg to back away.

"Why? How can you withstand my beams?"

Mercury frowned with determination. "You may rob us of our energy, but that won't be enough. Sorry, but your calculations on our energy levels are off." Clenching her hands, Mercury summoned a freezing wind and converged it with her water construct. "Mercury Freezing Water." As they combined, the water flew out and caught the cyborg.

"No! Can't defend... too cold... circuits... freezing... shut down imminent..." The cyborg droned as it was encased in ice.

Taking no chances, Mercury charged towards the frozen cyborg and kicked it down. The frozen cyborg collapsed, shattering into tiny ice fragments and destroyed circuitry.

xxxxx

"Take this!" Sailor Venus shouted as she lunged at her Caiman opponent.

Shick.

The reptilian alien lowered his chin and saw Venus plunging her sword through his chest.

"It can't be..."

Venus scoffed. "You better believe it." She exerted enough force to expel a blast of golden light through the Caiman's chest. "Venus Light Impalement!" With that, the blonde-haired Senshi wiped the Caiman out by releasing more light energy out of her sword.

In one blast, the Caiman was reduced to nothing. His body was completely disintegrated within Venus's light.

"Never ruin what could've been a fun day. Let that be a lesson to you," she muttered.

xxxxx

Sailor Jupiter sprinted across in a blur and knocked down the cyborg she fought earlier. She turned and sped through, knocking the cyborg onto its back. After each assault, the cyborg lost a section of its armor. Jupiter quickly put the brakes on and stood in front of the cyborg.

As the robotic soldier lowered his guard, he attempted to grab Jupiter.

She seized his right arm and ripped it off with ease.

"GAUGH!" The cyborg screamed.

Jupiter discarded the arm and, just as easily, ripped the cyborg's other arm off.

"NOOO!"

The brunette's right hand was imbued with electricity. She prepared to punch the cyborg, but then the cybernetic soldier jumped up and flew off. Jupiter didn't waste any time and flew up. She quickly caught up to cyborg and threw herself in front of him. She lunged forward and punched him right through his head, crushing it in her fierce grip.

"Jupiter Lightning Claws!" The Valkyrie Senshi shouted as long, electrically-powered claws protruded out of her fingertips. She slashed successive claw strikes, vertically and horizontally slicing up the cyborg from every angle. "Big mistake picking a fight with us. Now, let's see if your leader got the message."

As Jupiter finished slashing her enemy, the remains of the cyborg fell to the ground.

xxxxx

Sailor Uranus rotated herself around the Caiman she fought. She created a maelstrom, which carried the Caiman around. Uranus rapidly dove towards Caiman, slicing him up with a successive array of blade-like projectiles.

"Uranus Whirlwind Cutter!"

The Caiman's screams echoed as Uranus quickly sliced him up into pieces, then reduced those pieces into dust remains.

Once Uranus stopped rotating, she stood over the Caiman's dust remains. Firmly holding her Space Sword, Sailor Uranus scoffed and walked away.

xxxxx

Sailor Neptune collected a ball of oceanic water and blasted the cyborg she faced.

"Neptune Sea Crush!"

As the ocean water came down on the cybernetic monster, the overwhelming aquatic force dismantled and crushed the cyborg. Sailor Neptune stopped her water flow and lowered her hands.

"Adieu, Rajita trash."

xxxxx

As the last Rajita soldier, a cyborg, backed away, he bumped into Sailor Saturn. As he whirled around, Sailor Saturn stabbed him with her scythe.

"Malfunction... malfunction..."

Saturn frowned and retorted coldly. "Saturn Reaper Scythe!" With a single thrust, the Senshi of Destruction skewered the alien cyborg in half and finished him off by sending two glowing purple orbs out of her scythe. The orbs coalesced into a massive red sphere, which engulfed the alien and vaporized his two halved body parts. "Since you have no soul, you will not see the afterlife. Farewell, cyborg."

xxxxx

The Valkyrie Senshi gathered around as they briefly celebrated their victory over the Neo-Rajita skirmish. Luna and Artemis came out of hiding to join in with the post-battle celebration.

However, their time of jubilation came to an abrupt end as the Senshi all fell to their knees. Tuxedo Kamen and the Mooncats noticed the girls were gripping their Valkyrie armors and saw small cracks beginning to form in them.

"Girls! Your armors!" Luna exclaimed.

"Sailor Moon!" Kamen rushed over by his wife and put an arm around her. "Are you going to be okay?"

"Yes, just a little exhausted... it feels like my power... it's weakening," Moon muttered weakly.

Uranus exclaimed. "What the hell is happening to us?"

Mercury quickly advised her friends. "Everyone, it's those Rajita soldiers. They were siphoning off our Valkyrie powers..."

"That's right. Those guys took a good mount of our power and used it against us. What a damn waste," Jupiter cursed as she saw her entire body covered in a subtle green aura.

Venus breathed heavily and clenched her fists. "What do we do now?"

"Everyone, power down your Valkyrie armors," Mercury ordered. "By doing so, we'll at least conserve our power and not risk destroying our armors."

"You heard her, guys. Let's do it," Mars replied until she sensed a nearby dark presence. "No... not now!"

"What's wrong, Mars?" Saturn called out to the Miko Senshi

Moon gasped as she noticed a figure hovering twenty feet from where they were. "Look ahead, guys!"

Mars pivoted her head and growled at the figure in the distance. "Yeah, that's what I just sensed. The Rajita really are opportunistic if they've sent a soldier to finish us now."

"Oh, ho, ho, ho? The Rajita? Oh, you must be mistaken, young girl," the figure spoke in a low, seductive tone. "Although, you could say I'm collaborating with them." Once the figure paced closer, the source of the voice was revealed.

The individual that appeared before the Valkyrie Senshi was a light green-skinned girl. The only clothing she wore was a brown cloth, worn toga-style, covering her well-endowed chest and wrapped around her waist, yet leaving her midriff and shoulders exposed. Adorning her head was a gray helmet with a pair of glowing, yellow eyes on the sides. Underneath the helmet were locks of golden, blonde hair as long hair flowed down the back of her neck. Adorning her neck was a small, red neck choker made out of leather material. Her arms and fists were covered in gloves, which were made out of the same red leather material. Her feet were concealed in leather sandals, which were also forged out of the same red leather like the gloves and neck choker. A crescent moon adorned her waist, which served as a belt buckle to keep her loincloth dress from falling off. Underneath the dress garment, she wore a red undergarment - akin to a thong.

Sailor Neptune was taken aback by the girl's awkward appearance. "Who's this?"

"Oh, how rude. Pardon me. Allow me to introduce myself," the green-skinned female said as she struck Sailor Moon's own pose, mocking the Moon Princess. "You may call me Hydra!"

"No, not now... we just fought a battle already. Our armors... we can't maintain them for long..." Mars said to everyone.

"Oh yes. I watched your battle and I can tell your armors are ready to expire," Hydra calmly smirked as she folded her arms. "But, who wants to wait for you to waste your power in another battle? I can ease the suffering for you."

"Yeah? Well, we don't need you to ease anything!" Sailor Uranus retorted as she sprang to her feet.

Artemis quickly interjected. "Wait! You can't fight with your armors in that state!"

"Uranus! Wait!" Sailor Moon cried out.

Ignoring their pleas, Uranus charged ahead to meet Hydra and raised her Space Sword. Sailor Neptune quickly rushed in to stop her lover from striking Hydra. Hydra merely unfolded her arms and raised her hands. Just then, a serpent's head protruded out of her back. Then, another one emerged out of her right hand. She snapped her fingers, sending the two snakes forward.

Crack!

Crack!

The snake heads slammed into Uranus and Neptune, quickly cracking open their armors. The Outers gasped in horror as the snakes swirled around their bodies and crushed their Valkyrie armors into pieces. The snakes then yanked their brooches off, resulting in Uranus and Neptune's powers being cut off. Their Valkyrie armor crumbled as ribbons of light swirled around their bodies, quickly turning them back into their civilian forms.

"Oh no..." Venus gasped in horror.

"MICHIRU! HARUKA!" Moon screamed.

"How dare you!" Saturn roared as she lunged right at Hydra and prepared to summon an attack through her scythe.

"Stop! Saturn!" Haruka pleaded as she tried to stop the girl.

Hydra smirked. "Too easy." With that, she summoned a snake out of her left hand and impaled Saturn's brooch.

Sailor Saturn screamed as she felt her brooch being ripped off, causing her to drop her weapon. Saturn fell to the ground as she watched her Valkyrie armor shatter into pieces and release ribbons of lavender light. Saturn gasped in shock as she turned back into her civilian form.

"Hotaru-chan..." Michiru weakly murmured as she pulled herself towards the girl.

"No... this can't be happening!" Sailor Jupiter growled as she raced towards Hotaru, Michiru, and Haruka. She managed to pull them away from Hydra, but it didn't take long for Hydra to send a snake towards Jupiter's back.

Sailor Jupiter cried out as Hydra's snake wrapped itself around her armored body. The snake slivered around and arched its head over Jupiter's brooch. With one tug, the snake ripped the brooch off Jupiter's chest. Green ribbons swirled around Jupiter, which lead to her Valkyrie armor crumbling into pieces. For a brief moment, Jupiter's body became transparent and nude until her civilian clothes reappeared.

Sailor Venus cried out. "Mako-chan! No!"

Hydra didn't waste any time as she 'skated' towards Sailor Mercury.

As Mercury prepared to attack her with freezing water, Hydra quickly launched a snake forward. Mercury didn't even get a chance to finish as the snake yanked off her brooch, causing her Valkyrie armor to shatter and abruptly lose her Sailor powers.

"AMI!" Luna and Artemis cried out in horrifying disbelief.

"You monster!" Kamen intervened as he tried to stab Hydra.

The tentacle-armed girl launched another snake head, but this only knocked Kamen back. Sailor Moon sprang to her feet in defense of her husband.

"STOP THIS NOW!" Moon demanded as she placed her hands over her brooch.

"DON'T! SAILOR MOON!" Venus and Mars pleaded.

However, she ignored her friends' pleas and utilized her Silver Crystal's power to transform...

Shick.

The Moon Princess never had a chance to utilize the crystal.

Hydra stopped her dead cold.

Moon lowered her chin and saw that a snake head grabbed her brooch.

"I don't think so, princess," Hydra evilly smirked as she pulled back.

Moon grabbed her brooch and struggled to prevent Hydra from ripping it away. "No, no! NO! LET GO!"

Sailor Mars and Sailor Venus flew in as they launched attacks at Hydra simultaneously.

"Venus Random Crescent Beam Shots!"

"Mars Flare Arrow!"

Unfortunately, they were too late. Hydra successfully ripped off Moon's brooch, causing her Valkyrie armor to shatter and in the process cut off her powers. Moon collapsed in a defeated heap as pink ribbons covered her body. Then, as the ribbons faded, her civilian clothes returned.

But, the two attacks from Mars and Venus did manage to hit Hydra. The green-skinned woman grunted as she Mars' fire inflicted damage to her. Venus' shots hit their mark, bombarding Hydra with successive blasts.

"Usagi!" Mars gasped as she hurried over and tended to her friend. "Usagi, can you hear me?"

"Rei...chan..." Usagi listlessly muttered as she looked up at her friend. "Run... you and Venus... better get away. Leave us."

The Miko Senshi stubbornly refused. "No, we won't. We can't leave you. I can't leave you here!"

"That's an order, Mars!" Usagi exclaimed.

"Please, Mars. Venus. You two go! We'll hold her off!" Luna exclaimed as she and Artemis stood poised.

Getting up off the floor, Hydra dusted herself off and angrily stared at the remaining Valkyrie Senshi.

"Just two left? Heh, piece of cake," Hydra smirked as she flew back to where Mars and Venus waited for her. "Now, you two be so kind and let me finish the job I was assigned here. Make it easy for yourselves."

"Like we'd stand here and let you attack our armors!" Venus rebuked harshly.

"You two better go now!" Haruka exclaimed. "You two are all that's left."

"Go and warn the Kuiper Senshi!" Hotaru shouted.

Mars shifted her gaze toward Hydra and readied her fists. No, we can't. We won't let this bitch get away with this!

Venus, too, was determined to stay and fight. I never run. But, where the hell is Pluto? We needed her help!

"If you won't let me, then I'll come to you..." Hydra stopped as Luna and Artemis lunged at her. She quickly backhanded them with her free right hand, knocking the Mooncats aside.

"LUNA!" Usagi cried out as she jumped up and caught her guardian.

Venus jumped across and caught Artemis. "I've got you, Artemis!"

However, that swift and bold move left Venus wide open. Before Venus could react, a snake head swerved around her and grabbed her brooch. With one quick pull, Hydra ripped Venus' brooch off. Venus watched in saddened grief as her Valkyrie armor crumbled and her Senshi powers were cut off. She was back in civilian form, fully clothed in her normal spring attire.

"No, that just leaves..." Makoto said.

"Mars..." Usagi murmured as she immediately threw herself in front of the Miko. "Go, Mars! I have you covered!"

"She'll kill you, Usagi!" Mars exclaimed.

"You're the only one left, Mars! Go and find the Kuiper Senshi!" Ami pleaded to the Miko Senshi.

"I... I...I..." Mars stammered as she eyed her friends. "No, I can't let this bitch get away with what she's done! I won't... I won't let her kill you... I won't let her even come NEAR my children!" The Miko's motherly instincts kicked in, refueling herself with a renewed fighting spirit. "You!" She directed her attention towards Hydra.

"Yes?" Hydra replied.

In less than a second, Mars flew right toward Hydra and blasted her with an encompassing burst of flames. Hydra screamed out in agonizing pain as she crossed her arms in front. Mars roared out as she flew through the fire wall and punched Hydra, breaking the woman's jaw. The Miko followed it up by summoning her wings and folding them around Hydra. Mars wrapped her arms around Hydra's waist and flew up, taking the villain along into a higher altitude above the park.

"What do you think you're..."

Mars rebuked. "Fighting back with all I've got!" As she powered up, a funnel of fire surrounded them both. "Summoning with the remaining power I have left in my armor, I'll make sure you don't leave without paying the price." Closing her eyes, the Miko focused and expelled all of her Valkyrie power for this last attack. "Mars Celestial Phoenix!"

"NOO! STOP!" Hydra shouted as Mars plummeted down to the park.

The Senshi scattered as Mars' flames turned into a giant phoenix. The bird let out a loud screech as it crashed into the ground, throwing up a ton of rock and debris. The Senshi hurried toward the crater as they saw two bodies lying prone.

"Mars!" The girls exclaimed.

Kamen listlessly watched as Hydra stood up first.

"Damn her... that bitch..." Hydra growled deeply as she stood upright.

"She's up? She survived THAT?" Minako gasped in disbelief.

Although Hydra survived, she didn't get up without sustaining injuries and looked disoriented. Parts of her body, including her arms, legs, chest and face, suffered severe burns. Hydra's jaw was still slightly dislocated from Mars' punch.

As for Mars, she was slowly coming to. She raised her head and stared up at Hydra.

"Told ya... you... wouldn't walk away with feeling my pain," Mars weakly muttered as her brooch's power dissipated. With her brooch power fading, her Valkyrie armor shattered. Red ribbons covered her body as she turned back into civilian Miko form.

"REI-CHAN!" Usagi called out as she rushed over to help lift Rei out of the small crater.

Naturally, Hydra would be celebrating over her now successful mission, however, she refused to allow herself to get maimed by a Senshi, especially the Houou's vessel. The tentacle-armed woman whirled around and prepared to summon a snake head.

Then, the Prophet's voice telepathically reached Hydra. 'Cease your attack. Your mission is over.'

NO! The Houou's vessel burned me. She BURNED ME! I WON'T FORGIVE HER...

'Even if she sacrificed her Senshi powers, she still has the Houou power in spades. Invoke the Houou's wrath and you'll die quickly. Your services are still required in our grand plan, Hydra. We'll have your injuries treated. You were never ordered to kill the Senshi. Now, return at once.'

Hydra shrugged as she jumped up and levitated away from the Senshi.

"Get back here! You're NOT getting away with this!" Makoto exclaimed.

"How cliché of you say that. I already did, moron. The next time we meet, you won't have any powers to prevent me killing all of you!" Hydra giggled evilly as she shifted her gaze toward Rei. But, she still remains a threat so long as the Houou is with her. "You better pray that a new power source becomes available soon, because you won't have just me to worry about. The Neo-Rajita will no doubt take advantage of your already powerless states. Their revenge will soon become realized! Ha, ha, ha! Farewell, Sailor Senshi!"

A portal appeared above Hydra, which the girl passed through quickly.

As the vortex closed, the Senshi gathered together with saddened looks.

Each of them held her brooch.

All it took was an opportunistic enemy to destroy their once powerful Valkyrie Armors and cut off their Sailor powers.

Although Rei still possessed her Houou powers, the other Senshi weren't so lucky.

"This is bad, you guys. What are we going to do?" Minako exclaimed. "It's bad enough our brooches are broken and Valkyrie armors are gone."

Usagi buried her face against Kamen's chest and cried tears. "My Silver Crystal... it won't even work..."

Makoto questioned this untimely fate. "Is this it? Are we really done? Even worse, the Rajita are still out there and under the command of a new leader."

Rei stood up on her own while looking down at her hands. "That's right. Gamera." Houou, this is not good. The others can't fight the Rajita and the new leader without our powers, but I still have you. However, I doubt I want to rely on you.

'So, what are you going to suggest to them, Rei? You only have me and your Ninja power to work with.' The Houou reached to her vessel telepathically like usual.

"I'm the only one who can even still fight with the Houou's cosmic power, but I don't think I can take on whatever is coming all by myself," the Miko firmly stated. "I can't carry you guys on my own."

"And you won't," Ami reassured her. "Did you forget that you, Minako-chan, and Mako-chan still have your Ninja Senshi powers?"

"That's right!" Hotaru replied.

"C'mon, guys. We need to get back to my shrine. We're going to get something figured out," the Miko firmly assured her friends. "One way or another, we're going to get our powers back."

The Senshi looked at one another. There was a mixture of doubt, pessimism, and fear amongst the group.

However, Luna fully concurred with Rei. "She's right. Now's not the time to grieve!"

"Ami-chan, you have your computer. Perhaps we can contact Ninjadramon and the Dra-Warriors in the Digital World," Rei said.

Taken aback by Rei's idea, Haruka questioned her upfront. "What do you have in mind? Why them?"

"Duh! They're the ones who gave us the ability to turn into Ninja Senshi!" Minako reminded her. "So, that's your idea, Rei-chan?"

"I like it. You think the Dra-Warriors would know where to find some way to restore our powers?" Usagi inquired to her Miko friend.

Rei folded her arms and answered. "Well, the last time Minako-chan, Mako-chan, and myself got our powers back was when Cammy-chan lifted the sword to revive her Digital Priestess power. There has to be some other way. I have no doubt Ninjadramon and Herodramon can find something or someone to help us."

"So, all we need to do is ask them," Kamen said.

"Well? What do you say, guys?"

The Senshi followed it up as they walked over and nodded in approval. Rei smiled as Usagi walked over and hugged her. Taken back by the odango-haired young woman's loving hug, Rei warmed up and embraced her.

"Usagi?"

"Thank you, Rei-chan. I knew you'd come through for us..."

"I'm doing this for all of us. I want us to regain our powers as soon as possible. I promise you all we'll be back and better than ever," the Miko reassured her friends, lifting their spirits even more and giving them a glimmer of hope. "Ami-chan, get your mini-computer ready. Once we get back to the shrine, I'm going to connect to Ninjadramon and tell him everything that's happened."

Makoto was relieved to hear this. "Good, maybe just maybe... they'll tell us if there's another power source for us to draw from and revive our Valkyrie Senshi powers."

"Guys, this is still a long shot, but it's better than nothing," Minako claimed.

"Better than sitting around and moping, too," Artemis agreed with Minako's sentiments.

Usagi spoke up and garnered everyone's attention. "We better make this fast, guys. The sooner we contact Ninjadramon, the better."

"Right. There's no time for us to waste," Rei replied as she turned and looked down at the crater her final attack made. Her eyes glistened with determined hope. "We have work to do."

The Houou chimed in. 'Smart planning, Rei. Perhaps you won't need me after all.'

Let's hope so. This is our only chance. We need to get ready for when the Neo-Rajita return. And this Gamera… yeah, we need to get our powers back as soon as possible.

xxxxx

Sarayashiki District/Building Rooftop/12:57 PM

Meanwhile, the Spirit Detectives situation wasn't any better than the others. Although no Paradais members attacked them, the Demon Priests (even as shadow projections) proved to be efficient enough to catch Yusuke and his cohorts off their game.

Yusuke jumped away as main Demon Priest, identified as Long, launched a condensed Youki ball at the teen. The former Spirit Detective put up a Youki shield, nullifying Long's attack.

"Spirit Gun!" Yusuke howled as he fired single shot.

However, much to Yusuke's dismay, the beam passed through Long's transparent form.

"Should've known," Yusuke gritted his teeth. "How the hell am I supposed to hit you?"

Long chortled in amusement. "What you and your cohorts are fighting are mere astral projections of our physical selves, Yusuke Urameshi. Whatever you do, you'll never harm us. However..."

The second Demon Priests, the male behemoth, knocked Brimstone, Kuwabara, and Kurama back with a single thrust of his right fist. "We can still inflict damage to you and your comrades!"

As the orange-haired man fell into Brimstone's arms, Kuwabara collected his breath and stood upright. Kurama tended to Kuwabara.

"Sheesh, this is a pain in the ass," Kuwabara scowled.

Kurama carefully analyzed the Demon Priests' astral projection forms. "It's said demons capable of astral projections have a strong conscious mind that leaves the physical body and shifts into an astral body. These priests have no doubt been utilizing this technique intricately and to near perfection." He held his left shoulder, wincing from the injury sustained by the Demon Priest he, Kuwabara, and Brimstone engaged. "Even at our current levels, these Demon Priests are still superior."

"Then, why are these cowards hiding from us if they're so strong? Hey! Demon Priests, why don't you come out of whatever hole you're in and fight us like men!" Kuwabara bellowed out, standing up to the ancient lords.

The female Demon Priest chortled with amusement. "Poor boy. I'm a woman. You truly are a twit."

"Hey! Take that back about our friend!" Mizuno retorted.

Hiei scoffed. "She does have the right idea."

Kuwabara roared out, the urge to kill Hiei heightened again. "HEY! I HEARD THAT HALF PINT! SAY IT TO MY FACE!"

"My sister wouldn't forgive you," Hiei reminded him.

"Yukina-chan..." Kuwabara stopped abruptly as he pivoted his face. "You're right."

The female Demon Priest turned as Hiei and Mizuno tried to double team her.

Hiei sliced at her with his sword while Mizuno conjured up water that turned itself into a drill. The female Demon Priests merely stood her ground and was completely unaffected by their attacks. She cupped her hands together and shot a powerful Youki beam, which Hiei and Mizuno evaded. The beam hit a small parking lot in the distance and blew it up, reducing it into a massive crater.

"If I wanted to cut loose, I would've blown up more than just that section," the Demon Priest proclaimed. "You two should be lucky you dodged at the last minute."

Meanwhile, Kyo and Rio clashed head to head as the brothers exchanged punches. Kyo threw a series of punches, which Rio barely evaded from. Kyo teleported out of Rio's view and reappeared behind his brother.

Kyo already formed a massive black orb in his right hand. He prepared to fire the ball until Rio dropped down on his knees. Thrusting his fist upward, Rio shot a bone crunching uppercut into Kyo's jaw. However, Kyo jerked his head back and let Rio miss by a hair's-breadth. Seizing the opportunity, Kyo distinctly found an opening and punched Rio in the chest and shattered a section of his brother's armor.

"Gah!" Rio gasped as he gripped his left side. "Damn it."

Kyo sighed with boredom. "Dear brother, you're still not on my level. How do you hope to measure up when we do face each other? Your Sun Stone has yet to fully reach its peak. My Moon Stone hit its peak years ago."

"Brother, you're being deceived..."

"No, they're giving me the chance to get what I've always wanted," the Moon Stone wielder smirked as he clenched his right hand into a fist. "The honor of reviving the first Taiyoukai lord and becoming its vessel."

"Don't you hear what you're saying?" Yusuke interjected into the brothers' conversation. "Damn, you're stupid if you think you can remain loyal to these Demon Priests!"

"No, I just accept my fate. It's fate that I must deliver my body for the first Taiyoukai lord and he will use my body to destroy everything you hold dear in this world."

Hiei snorted. "There's no sense talking to this man. He's made his decision long ago."

"He's no longer your brother, Rio," Kurama plainly said. "I'm sorry to say this, but you need to..."

"I know. This monster..." Rio shot an angry glare at Kyo. "He threatens me and wants to take our sister? Our dear Kohana? No brother should ever sell their own sister out to a trio of evil monsters. I'll protect Kohana from you, Kyo!"

Kyo calmly laughed and spread his arms out. "Let's see you back it up-"

"No, that will be quite enough, Kyo. It's time for us to leave these fools to think about who they're dealing with," Long chuckled as he turned and faced the Spirit Detective unit. "Prince Koenma has assembled quite a team. An impressive bunch, but you have yet to experience the true horrors of the Meikai universe. You'll come to know that we are superior to those you've challenged in the Makai. Our authority will be felt in due time."

"As usual, you bad guys spew the same crap," Yusuke angrily retorted. "It's getting very old."

The older male Demon Priest deeply laughed. "He has a sense of humor, Long. We should give him that."

"Indeed, he does, but a snarky mouth is not going to get him far in the Meikai. Yusuke Urameshi, when the time comes, you will be greeted by Kyo and our most loyal knights. Let this be a warning to you and your comrades."

"LONG! As long as I'm here, I won't let you or Kyo take Kohana! That's my vow!" Rio declared.

"Bold statement, Rio Kuroshishi," the female Demon Priest replied. "Long, Vigor, it's time for us to leave."

As Long raised his right hand, the priest opened a portal behind Kyo.

"You hear that, dear brother? This is only the beginning," Kyo coolly smirked as he directed eye contact with his sibling. "I'd stick close to Kohana and watch her. Hell, I'd stay with these friends of yours, because the next time we meet... Kohana will be ripe for the picking." As he finished, Kyo walked through the portal as it sealed up.

"As for you Spirit Detectives, just pray that you never actually face us in battle," Long warned Yusuke and his team.

Raizen's descendant incisively replied. "You won't know until you actually face us."

"Indeed we will, descendant of Raizen. Just remember that Kiryu was a weakling compared to me and my fellow priests. Farwell, Spirit Detectives. Your peaceful era is about to meet its twilight soon."

As Long finished, he and the other two Demon Priests vanished.

The Spirit Detectives were left befuddled by Long's warning. Kuwabara looked absolutely frightened after hearing Long's claim that his strength was greater than Kiryu.

"Guys, how in the hell are we going to compete with guys like them?" Kuwabara exclaimed.

"Like always, we meet them head on..."

"And plan ahead," Kurama said. "In this case, we're going to require thinking two... or even ten steps ahead of the Demon Priests."

"Uh, yeah. That, too," Yusuke remarked.

Mizuno looked up at Brimstone as they both shared Kurama's sentiments.

"Yusuke, we need to stick together and formulate a plan. Protecting my sister is our top priority. We can't allow Kyo to take her... or me!" Rio pleaded to Yusuke as he approached the young man.

"Relax," Yusuke reassured the Demon Stone wielder. "Speaking as a father myself, I understand what it means to want to protect your family. You're right. Kohana-chan comes first. She's Yui-chan's friend and you know how much Yui-chan means to me."

"Thank you, Yusuke."

Hiei didn't hesitate to interpose between Yusuke and Rio's brief exchange. "I think it's about time you tell us everything. By everything, I mean the entailed history between you, that man who was once your brother, and the Demon Priests."

"Hiei's right. We need to know more about these Demon Priests," Mizuno promptly stated. "And only you can tell us."

"It would help us a lot, Rio," Kurama concurred. "We don't mean to impose you, but time is of the essence. Your brother is determined to execute the Demon Priests' plans flawlessly. We need to thoroughly analyze our enemy and prepare ourselves."

Rio shook his head. "You're right. The details will be hard to explain, but I'll tell you what I know. More than you already know."

"Good, but in the meantime, let's head back to Rei's shrine. The girls must be over there. Wait until we tell them everything."

For a moment, Hiei looked a slightly distressed as he eyed the distance to where Juuban district was. Kurama, Mizuno, and Brimstone were the first to notice.

"Hiei?" Kurama said.

Mizuno inquired to the fire demon. "Is something wrong?"

"We better hurry back," Hiei replied. Houou, did something happen to the Senshi?

xxxxx

Domino City District/Outside Kaiba Corp Building/12:59 PM

Upon arrival at the front of Kaiba Corporation, a group of four Slifer Red students jumped on top of Seto's limo. This prompted Seto and Lyn emerge out of the limo as they faced the four Paradais Knights.

"Aren't those...?" Lyn pointed toward the red-coated students.

Seto frowned as he shot a cold glare at the Slifer Red duelists. "They're wearing the Slifer Red uniforms. They're most definitely Duel Academy students."

"That's where Max and Sam go. Hey, what you guys want from us?" Lyn demanded an answer.

"You won't get anything until you duel us!" One of the Paradais Knights imposed.

"Hn, fine. I'll take them on..."

Lyn quickly interjected. "Actually, why don't you let me duel them? I've been meaning to try out my new upgraded deck."

"Ah, so ladies first, eh?" The first Paradais Knight stepped forward with a Duel Disk.

"This lady is gonna hand you your collective ass when it's all said and done," the blue-haired young man rebuked as she walked back into the limo and pulled out her Duel Disk. "Don't sweat it, Seto. This jackass is going down."

Seto folded his arms and stepped back. "He's all yours."

"Seto Kaiba is letting a woman duel in his place? My how far the former champion has fallen," one of the Paradais Knights laughed amongst themselves.

Lyn frowned. "This woman is going to crush your pitiful little egos. Now, let's get this over with!"

The CEO shifted his attention to his girlfriend's duel. "These guys might have something to do with the hacking and the reports of Duelists being hospitalized. Lyn, be on your guard."

"Right," she solemnly affirmed.

xxxxx

Unknown Dimension/1:03 PM

Meanwhile, Charon and the Prophet watched the events unfold before their eyes.

Several Paradais Knights managed to defeat a few notable Domino City and Duel Academy students, destroying their Duel Disks. They've even managed to hospitalize other duelists in the process.

King Basilikmon dismantled the Digimon Tamers, turning a few of their members into stone.

Grendelmon defeated the Ten Legendary Warriors, utilizing a viral program to infect and cut off the Warriors' spirits.

Nix crushed the Kuiper Belt Senshi.

Hydra effectively destroyed the Sailor Senshi's Valkyrie armors and stripped them completely of their Senshi powers.

Although the Demon Priests weren't affiliated with Paradais, the demonic trio proved to be troublesome for the Spirit Detectives.

Charon shared a calm, devilish smile with Prophet (if one could see his face behind the hood) and coyly spoke. "All is going according to plan."

"Indeed. The first step has been realized. Now, tomorrow, let's see if they're able to recover from this."

"If they are, then we must certainly commend them. But, day two will prove to be very interesting."

The Prophet replied. "These next few days will be unpredictable to say the least. Until then, we can only watch and wait."

Charon turned and smiled devilish toward Pluto, who was pinned on a cross. Did you see how easily your Senshi have fallen? With no powers to accommodate them, they're easy pickings, but knowing them... they'll somehow recover and find a new power source. Oh, and let's not forget your precious Kuiper Senshi. Poor, poor, Sailor Sedna... she has no idea what I have in store for her and her friends.

"Charon, my love."

"Yes, I know. Time to see how events will play out according to our prophecies."

If one could tell what Pluto was mumbling, the Time Guardian muttered weakly. "...Small Lady." A tear fell down her left cheek as she uttered the name of Neo-Queen Serenity's daughter.

However, in the future, there were already plans being made from an unlikely group of heroes.

xxxxx

Neo-Domino City/Tops Residential Resort/March 25, 3009/1:10 PM

Within Leo and Luna's residence, the twins called a meeting with the other Signers.

Amongst the Signers was an older teenage male named Yusei Fudo. He wore his hair black and spiky hair with gold highlights and had blue eyes. Yusei wore a long-sleeved blue jacket with a high collar and amber gems over his sleeveless black shirt with a red symbol. He wore gloves below his elbows with an amber gem on them. He wore blue jeans with amber kneepads, a belt with two decks hidden underneath his jacket, knee guards, and calf-high boots. Adorned on his left face was a jagged, yellow criminal marker he was branded with when taken to the Facility.

Standing beside a wall was man wearing spiked, blonde hair. He had violent-colored eyes. The current attire he wore consisted of a purple-and-white trenchcoat over a black shirt, black pants, and brown boots. This was the former 'King' of Turbo Duels, Jack Atlas.

An orange-haired teen leaned against a chair as he listened to the twins' explanation. This was Crow Hogan, a long-time friend of Yusei and Jack since their Satellite days. He was also the newest Signer following the defeat of Goodwin. He wore a long-sleeved green jacket with an orange shirt underneath. In addition, his pants were dark green and his boots were a plain brown. He, too, wore three distinctive criminal markers on his face - one embroidered on his forehead and two marked on his cheeks.

Sitting on a couch next to the twins was an older teenage girl. This was Akiza Izinski, a friend of Yusei and the others. She's also a Signer. She wore dark, violet hair with two long, elbow-length bangs. Her wardrobe bore a resemblance to a Victorian dress. She wore a low-cut corset with short, light green puffy sleeves and a high collar. She wore a red neck choker and an emerald crested, golden cross-shaped medallion; in addition, she wore a pair of dark, elbow-length gloves with a pair of gold bracelets above them. She wore stockings as black as her gloves with which were connected to her dress, and wore red high heels with them.

Also sitting on a nearby set of chairs were two other people, but neither of them were Signers.

One of them was a thick-browed man in his mid to late 30s named Trudge. This man was once a rival to Yusei and worked in Neo-Domino City's Public Order Security. However, since the Dark Signers appeared, he became an ally to Yusei and the Signers.

The other was a short, blue-haired young woman named Mina, who once served as Rex Goodwin's secretary and someone who attended to Jack Atlas.

There was another who, like Trudge, Mina, and Leo, was not a Signer, though she was a former Dark Signer. A cute girl with long, pine green hair stood next to Jack. Her glasses had goofy-looking swirls on the lens (one couldn't look into her real eyes unless she removed her glasses). Her shirt was a long-sleeved, blue-and-yellow striped tee. In addition, she wore an orange vest that went over her striped shirt. Her blue jeans were long and reached down to her ankles, where her feet were inside a pair of orange shoes. Carly wore an orange fanny pack, which would be considered 'unfashionable' by today's standards. On her left arm, she wore a hot pink wristband. To Jack, Carly was someone that he has been seeing often since the fall of the Dark Signers.

For the past hour, they've been discussing Luna's dream, the impending Temporal Wave, and about going to the past. At first, the likes of Trudge, Jack, and Crow thought such a concept was impossible. However, Yusei wasn't about to deter Luna's idea regarding seeing Neo-Queen Serenity.

"Crystal Tokyo? You actually want us to go there?" Trudge blurted out.

Leo replied. "That's right. I mean if what the Ancient Fairy Dragon said was true..."

Yusei stated. "Seeing Neo-Queen Serenity is essential."

"You really think the ruler of Crystal Tokyo is capable of that?" Crow inquired. "Sounds far-fetched to me."

"I don't know, but I'm not going to dismiss the possibility," Yusei added.

Akiza spoke up. "I say let's go."

"Trudge, we can have a helicopter take us to Crystal Tokyo," Mina said.

"Um, well... I... "

Jack scoffed. "Do you really believe she'd allow us to step foot on her kingdom?"

"Wow, us going to Crystal Tokyo? This is like... a dream come true!" Carly was ecstatic about the possibility. "And time travel? This is going to be biggest scoop of the century! I HAVE to go! I'll be right there to see everything transpire before MY eyes! Jack, you can't deny me this!"

"Who said I was?" Jack replied quickly, shooting a serious glance at Carly. "Even if I did, you wouldn't listen."

The reporter girl sheepishly smiled. "Well, fancy that. You're letting me come?" BINGO! The biggest scoop of all time will be written by yours truly... the best damn reporter in the multiverse! Carly Carmine. Let's see you top this one, Angela, queen of bitches! I can see your face of distraught right now! Kekeke!

Folding his arms, Jack sighed. "Day dreaming again, Carly?"

"What makes you say that?"

"You have that crazed look on your face."

Carly blinked and backed off. "Uh, I was thinking of a set of questions for Neo-Queen Serenity? Uh, yeah. Heh, heh, heh." She nervously chuckled.

"If Ancient Fairy Dragon said that she's expecting us, then we better go. Besides, the fact that we saved the world from the Dark Signers is good enough for the queen to allow us into her kingdom. We don't have much time," Luna proclaimed. "We need to hurry."

Sitting up from his chair, Yusei clearly made his decision. "All right then. We're off to Crystal Tokyo, guys. Is anyone out?"

There was no response from anyone until Trudge tried to raise his hand. Mina frowned and seized his hand, lowering it down on his lap.

"Thank you everyone," Luna smiled with delight.

Crow buried his face in his hands. "Time travel? Hoo boy. This is gonna be a dozy."

Yusei turned his attention toward the nearest window behind him and took a deep breath. First, the Dark Signers, and now we have a far greater force that's about to destroy our world... and the only way to save it is to go to the past. Time travel, a new venture for us Signers. Without a doubt, seeing Neo-Queen Serenity will be an honor. it's up to us to save our time and the past.

xxxxx

(PREVIEW)

Imperialdramon & Omegamon: Tamers, we understand your current situation. Huanglongmon-sama and Granasmon-sama wish to have an assembly with you. They'll restore your friends who've been turned to stone.

Takato: What's this? The Demon Corps and the Dark Masters working together?

Guilmon: They're working together to begin finding Valmarmon's seven body pieces? This is bad, Takato!

Seraphimon: Granasmon-sama wishes to see you, Legendary Warriors.

Takuya: I hope he can remove this virus from our D-Scanners! We need our spirits back!

Yusuke: So, these Demon Priests are planning to revive an ancient Taiyoukai lord?

Rio: Not just any Taiyoukai, the first one. They want unleash their armies across the three worlds. We need to find the Meikai.

Yusei: Ok, everyone! Are we all set?

Luna and Leo: Wow, this is Crystal Tokyo?

Neo-Queen Serenity: Welcome, Signers. I've been expecting you.

Rei: Athenamon? Swordswoman? What are you doing here?

Athenamon: Ninjadramon told us everything. We wish to offer you and the Senshi a chance to recover your lost powers. We've located a source of power within our Amazonian labyrinth.

Makoto: The Orb of Minos? That's the source that will restore our lost Valkyrie and Senshi powers?

Swordswoman: But, you must earn the right to regain your powers. The labyrinth will become your training.

Usagi: Ugh, training? Wait, you're offering us Ninja Henshin items and become Ninja Senshi like Rei-chan, Mako-chan, and Minako-chan?

Chibi-Usa: Signers, my friends and I will take you to the past. Come with me and my friends.

Yugi: Next time on Dawn of Chaos!

A Recovery from Paradais! Onward to the Past!

Charon: My love, do you sense that? There's an anomaly approaching this period. It's coming from the future. Yes, just as we expected. They're coming.

Prophet: The Signers.

xxxxx

A/N: Quite a few shocking defeats our heroes suffered, huh? No, more like crushing defeats. Well, Paradais had to be shown as a force to be reckoned with. In any case, the next few chapters will be a time of recovery for our heroes. For others, there are still a few skirmishes to settle. The next chapters will quickly move forward with the important developments for our heroes' prime missions.

Yep, the Signers are coming. Get ready.

To be honest, writing the scenes with the Senshi and the Legendary Warriors losing their powers was difficult for me. But, judging by the preview, this will only lead to the Senshi working something out with the Amazons. The labyrinth and the Orb of Minos will work into the Senshi's mission to regain their powers. This angle will be a lot of fun to write.

And yes, there are more surprises to come. Granasmon is one digimon you can count on to deliver the goods. ;)

Well, that just about covers Chapter 2. See you next Fri/Sat for Chapter 3!

Until then, send a review. Take care and stay gold!