A/N: Ok, we're down to the big fights leading to the finale! Can Rika and Kari somehow topple the obstacles put in front of them?

You won't have to wait long, 'cause we're gonna find out.

Enjoy!

xxxxx

Act XI: Second to Last Battles! Celesta X and Seirika Face Adversity!

xxxxx

Canyon Land/Away from the Mountain Peak/DXW-06

After defeating the Triad, Pikkan, BW, and Mercuremon stormed toward the direction where the former duo sensed Arkadimon's surging power rise. Mercuremon, whose senses were not up to par with Pikkan and BW, turned toward them inquisitively.

"If I may thou ask, what is this power I'm barely assessing?" The Warrior of Metal inquired to the duo.

Pikkan answered as he glided across alongside BW. "It's a great but terrible power! I've never felt anything this big since that Virus guy I saw in Other World. We have to keep on our toes."

"Seems Yamato, TK, and Kari are all gathered there," BW confirmed the other Kis he picked up on. "They're all about to fight Arkadimon. I never imagined Paradixalmon would be willing to go that far to add that monster to his forces!"

Nodding, the Alterian narrowed his eyes and picked up on Arkadimon's rising dark power. "We're getting close! Arkadimon needs to be destroyed before his power eclipses our own!"

"Right!" BW shouted back.

Mercuremon nodded as he threw one of his mirrors across and jumped on it. "And I'll keep up with thou two!" He pressed his feet on the mirror and sailed through the landscape, trailing behind Pikkan and BW toward their next destination.

What the trio were about to enter was a hard-pressed battle against a Digimon whose reputation is feared amongst the warriors of the DF-616 world.

xxxxx

(Cue Yu-Gi-Oh 5Ds OST Terror and Destruction)

At last, Arkadimon Super Ultimate arose and floated into the air, locking eyes with the warriors facing him. Metalla X, Celesta X, WarAngemon, and Shoutmon DX stood together in assembly while staring down Arkadimon Super Ultimate. The large, black-bodied gargantuan invoked a terrifying vibe that sent chills down his adversaries, especially Celesta X, who felt his evil vibes gripping her from within. WarAngemon and Shoutmon DX watched Celesta X sink to her knees, grabbing her head and yelling in pain.

"Kari!" WarAngemon cried out as he put an arm over Celesta X, who shivered down to her soul. "I haven't seen you this afraid since the War Games. C'mon, Kari, stand up! We need you!" He quickly tried encouraging her and shook her shoulders. "Kari!"

As she gasped, Celesta X came to her senses and gazed up at Arkadimon Super Ultimate. She then turned back to WarAngemon and clenched her fists.

"Are you ok, Kari?"

"You're right. I need to be mentally at my best," she said, standing up and posturing herself into a battle stance. "I shouldn't be afraid anymore!"

"That's the spirit," Shoutmon DX replied. "Since your power is strongest, we'll need it to destroy...!"

"OUTTA THE WAY, YOU FOOLS!" Metalla X warned the trio as Arkadimon Super Ultimate's eyes burned red and fired a beam toward their direction.

"God Matrix!" bellowed Arkadimon, sending a concentrated beam that deleted everything in his path. He watched the Ascendants and Shoutmon DX quickly take to the air, evading his attack immediately. Alternating his view, the black-bodied behemoth meticulously eyed the three Ascendants and Shoutmon DX. He surprised them by phasing out and reappearing behind them, expelling a bombardment of tendrils at the four.

WarAngemon shouted. "HEADS UP!"

With that, the four made evasive maneuvers to escape Arkadimon's tendrils and unleashed blasts to cut through them. WarAngemon and Celesta X cupped their hands to their sides while unleashing condensed holy blasts that cut away at the tendrils.

"Seraph Beam!" WarAngemon shouted, launching a golden beam through his right hand that impacted Arkadimon's face, but did little more than irritate the behemoth. "Damn! it barely fazed him!" He quickly evaded an eraser beam that flew toward his direction. He reappeared and unleashed a barrage of blasts from his fists. "Hands of Fate!" He continuously bombarded Arkadimon Super Ultimate with blasts as he stopped and watched the monster fire phase behind him. "Ugh!" He quickly phased out and reappeared, forging a distance between him and behemoth. "Despite his size, he's got the speed to back it up!"

Shoutmon DX glided across at blinding speed, vanishing behind a golden streak of light. He glided right over the back of Arkadimon and unloaded with energy blasts from his gun and sword. "Electric Buster Xros!" While sending his blasts all over Arkadimon, Shoutmon DX didn't let up and flew around the behemoth, shooting a hail of blasts that bombarded him. "Hyper Rock Magnum!" But, he didn't stop there as he merged the fiery burst of powers from both OmegaShoutmon and ZekeGreymon. "THINK I'm FINISHED? THINK AGAIN!" Bathed his body in golden light, Shoutmon DX flew down and impacted Arkadimon, hitting him with force that would devastate a mountain against Arkadimon Super Ultimate. "Brave Beat Rock Double Xros!" He exerted nearly of his power into one impact blow, which seemed to faze Arkadimon Super Ultimate.

The behemoth was slightly knocked back.

"All right! He managed to damage him!" Celesta X cried out.

Metalla X scoffed. "Look again, Kari. You ought to know better."

Upon realizing this, Celesta X gasped the moment she saw Arkadimon tanking Shoutmon DX's shot and backhanding the composite Digimon.

"No! Shoutmon DX!" Celesta X shouted as she glided down to catch him. "I've got you!"

"He's not only strong, but his body is hard..." Shoutmon DX warned her while getting his bearings.

"I've got this! I made the mistake of removing the collar," Metalla X declared as he glided forward. "The three of you stand back!"

WarAngemon shouted to his brother. "Wait, Yamato! Don't!"

"I'll take the pleasure of removing this pestilence for good!" The proud Ascendant declared as he charged up energy into his hands and threw an earth-shattering beam to Arkadimon's head. As the beam temporarily blinded Arkadimon, Metalla X seized advantage of the situation and cupped his hands in front.

"What's that arrogant hothead going for now?" Shoutmon DX wondered.

Celesta X recognized the stance. "The Final Blaze! TK, get out of the way!"

Taking heed of his friend's warning, WarAngemon flew over to Celesta X and Shoutmon DX. They watched Metalla X accumulating a charged Ki ball in his hands. He concentrated the charged energy ball and shifted his target over Arkadimon's head.

"I've got you now! Eat this and die, you bloated piece of crap!" Metalla X boasted. "Final Blaze!" He launched the powerful shot that flew toward Arkadimon.

As Arkadimon finally recovered his sight, he instinctively fired a condensed beam to counteract Metalla X's attack. "God Matrix!" He quickly overpowered Metalla X's attack and nullified it completely, much to Metalla X's utter dismay.

(End theme)

"W-What the hell?" Metalla X gaped at the futility of his best attack. "No, it can't...!"

Arkadimon Super Ultimate phased out again and reappeared behind the warriors. Before any of them could react, the behemoth unleashed a barrage of tentacles that ensnared the four. Metalla X, WarAngemon, Celesta X, and Shoutmon DX all cried out in pain while Arkadimon tightened his grips on them.

He's crushing me! Celesta X pathed to WarAngemon. TK! We've got to use our holy energy!

Right! We've got to focus, Kari! WarAngemon pathed back to the Bearer of Light.

As Celesta X and WarAngemon channeled their holy Ki, they focused it through Arkadimon's tendrils and burned away the monster's tentacles. WarAngemon fired a blast to free Metalla X from the tentacle holding him. Celesta X did the same to release Shoutmon DX. However, Arkadimon unleashed more tentacles that batted the four warriors back. Celesta X hit the ground first as she watched Arkadimon pummeling the trio.

"Yamato! TK! Shoutmon DX!" Celesta X cried out as she shot upward to save them. A tendril came out of nowhere and batted her down again. "Augh!" She cried, hitting the ground. This freak's blows are strong and he's got quick reflexes! Standing up, she pivoted her view and saw Arkadimon hitting them with his tentacles. "No!" Suddenly, she felt her entire body seemingly shut down and unable to move on her own free power. She was starting to hesitate again. No, it's happening again! I... I... I can't... I can't release that power if it means the possibility of losing myself! Clenching her fists, Celesta X shook her head and tried to dismiss her own insecurities. No, I can't let doubt cloud my mind! Oh, Tai... if only your voice was here to encourage me... just like you did when I fought Dragomon!

"Gah!" WarAngemon grunted as a tentacle hit him in the chest.

I've already faced my fear back in the War Games! I destroyed Virus... I should be able to destroy Arkadimon! The female Ascendant said, sinking to her knees. She was reminded of the instance where the Chibi Viruses pummeled her friends into near submission. "I... I can do it... yet I'm afraid...!" C'mon, Kari! Just let it out! Don't be afraid!

Metalla X turned as he put his hand out and blasted a barrage of tentacles coming forward. Unfortunately, one came up behind him and and hit him. Shoutmon DX charged forward to bombard Arkadimon with beams, but the behemoth repelled him with a tentacle coming out of his head.

C'MON, KARI! YOUR FRIENDS NEED YOU! Celesta X cried out as she stood and quickly drew out Arkadimon's attention. As WarAngemon and Shoutmon DX hit the ground near her, the Bearer of Light glided over to pull them up. "TK! Shoutmon DX! Are you ok?"

"...Kari... it's time you to let that power out," WarAngemon encouraged her. "Get angry..." He said, holding his right arm. "That thing is taking us apart, but you've got the power to destroy him."

"But, I..."

"What about our talk earlier? Remember what your brother and Ken told you?" Shoutmon DX reminded her.

Celesta X reflected back to her earlier talk with Tai and Ken (XLR), but it was the latter that truly pressed for her to fight no matter what odds were stacked against her. His words of encouragement were enough to reignite her resolve and right now her resolve was slowly coming back to her.

As Metalla X rebounded with blasts that held Arkadimon at bay, this gave Celesta X enough time to find herself and regain the confidence she nearly lost. Celesta X walked past WarAngemon and Shoutmon DX, raising her head and casting a gaze that matched her brother's.

"I am the Amazing Grace," Celesta X reminded herself. "I can't and won't let any of you down!"

"That's the spirit, girl!" Shoutmon DX said, picking himself up and readying himself for reentry into the battle.

WarAngemon walked up by Celesta X and pat her shoulder. "We can beat him together, Kari. All we need is your Amazing Grace to waste him like you did Dragomon and Virus."

"Right!" Celesta X said, reaffirming her courage and preparing herself for her greatest challenge since her epic clash with Virus. Being a sister to Tai Kamiya and the first level 2 Ascendant, she was ready to delve deep into her power and face her fears. which turned out to be a greater obstacle to overcome than Arkadimon Super Ultimate. "I'm ready." She took to the air along with WarAngemon and Shoutmon DX. She casted her eyes to where Metalla X was blasting away Arkadimon's tentacles. I won't let any of you down, especially not you, Tai!

xxxxx

Vampire Land/Cemetery/DXW-06

The fighting had resumed despite the fact Arkadimon's now overwhelming force was still lingering in the air. Dark Suzakato and ChaosGallantmon Destructor Mode no longer seemed to care about it and were more focused on the battle at hand. This also forced their opposition to do the same. However, some were still on alert in case Arkadimon decided to come for them.

What could be the cause of such a strong power! wondered Lady Lupin, turning to watch Dark Suzakato continue to bombard Seirika with dark fireballs.

However, despite her friends' pleas, the Warrior of Seiryuu wouldn't move from her spot.

"Rika!" Lady Lupin yelled out in concern and tried to move in, but ChaosGallantmon cut her off and knocked her back several feet with his shield. "Ah!" She cried out, hitting the ground.

"Sis, be careful!" yelled a deeply concerned Himakko as the other Digimon converged to attack ChaosGallantmon.

ChaosGallantmon DM repelled MegaGargomon and YoukaiInumon away. Sakuyamon Priestess Mode, however, was able to stand her ground firmly. Why was this possible? She and Rika were connected through their resolve to save their friends and wouldn't stop. No matter what even at the cost of their own lives. Nonetheless, Dark Suzakato wasn't buying into Seirika's reckless strategy.

Growling angrily, Dark Suzakato demanded while tossing more fireballs toward Seirika. "Why aren't you taking this seriously?"

As he continued blasting her, Seirika merely smiled. "It's ok, gogglehead. I am taking this seriously. I just don't want to hurt you." She replied, smiling as her tone seemed to soften and convey compassion, but that only infuriated Dark Suzakato more.

"You're deluded if you think I'll tire out! Is that how your planning to beat me?" Dark Suzakato screamed, throwing more fireballs. He stopped and concentrated, throwing a flamethrower blast that connected with Seirika. "Black Firepalm Blast!" Finally, he was able to make Seirika budge and pushed her back, but it didn't destroy her to everyone's shock. "What? That should've killed you!"

Seirika still wore a confident smile. "...you can't kill me, Takato. I'm stronger than you think."

"LIAR!" Dark Suzakato snarled as he launched continous fireballs toward her.

As Seirika braced herself, Mika and Sara had enough of watching their friend take the brunt of the punishment. They dashed across before the fireballs could hit Seirika. Sara threw herself onto Seirika and turned intangible to let the blasts pass through them. Mika threw green Ki blasts to negate all of Dark Suzakato's dark fire balls. The Chimeras' actions didn't sit well with Seirika, who quickly ordered them off.

"Move away, you two!" Seirika ordered as they looked at her like she were crazy.

"Rika! You can't mean that!" Sara said.

"Rika, you can't be freakin' serious!" Mika exclaimed. "His attacks are getting stronger with each moment! You were lucky to even survive that Firepalm Blast of his!"

"They're right, Rika!" Henbu called out as he and Himakko stormed into the scene. "Let us help you!"

Seirika shook her head and dismissed their offers. "No, if Seiryuu and the Houou believe I'm the only one who can do this, then who am I to question them?" She shouted at them, almost hesitant to tell them off. She attentively turned her eyes to Dark Suzakato and walked toward him.

Dark Suzakato yelled and continued throwing fireballs at her direction. Each blast either hit her or blasted the area around her. "You've gone crazy, woman! You really do want to do die!" He didn't stop throwing more black fireballs, but she didn't stop advancing toward him. "DO YOU WANT TO DIE?" He demanded an answer as he forged a larger fireball bigger than Seirika. He quickly tossed it at her, which overtook her and alarmed everyone present.

"RIKA! NO!" Henbu cried out as he, Himakko, Mika, and Sara watched in horror.

Though, their fears faded when the fire cleared away. Seirika was revealed and hardly damaged at all.

"He barely did any damage to her!" Himakko said.

Taken aback by the turn of events, Dark Suzakato gaped and backed away. "What the hell?" Judging by his perplexed eyes, a dash of uncertainty filled Dark Suzakato's mind with distress, who was becoming scared of Seirika's willingly impenetrable presence. Her resolve... where is it coming from? How do I even stop her? "Tell me how this is possible!"

"Heh, I barely felt that, gogglehead," Seirika said, a calm and genuine smile adorning her face. She dropped her weapon and continued walking toward him.

For the second time, and since his confrontation with the Houou, Dark Suzakato felt an overwhelming urgency to show fear. This fear was already overcoming his state of mind.

"GUILMON!" The Dark Beast Tamer yelled out in panic.

Hearing his partner's call, ChaosGallantmon DM whirled around and stormed toward Seirika. As he readied his lance to stab her, Lady Lupin and YoukaiInumon charged behind him while grabbing his arms. MegaGargomon quickly held the Unholy Knight Digimon down from above.

"NO! LET ME GO NOW!" ChaosGallantmon demanded whilst struggling against his former friends' restraints.

YoukaiInumon turned to his beloved. "Sakuyamon! Do it now!"

With that, Sakuyamon PM nodded and drew out a talisman. "Talisman of Light, exorcise the darkness that has taken our dear friend! Free him from Paradixalmon's control and restore to who he was before!" She then chanted a short mantra before slamming the scripture onto ChaosGallantmon DM's forehead. "RELEASE THE DARKNESS!"

Letting out excruciating and agonizing screams, ChaosGallantmon DM felt the darkness being sucked from his armored body. The talisman sucked out the darkness like a vacuum cleaner, converting ChaosGallantmon DM back as his body soon changed from purple to red, signifying the removal of the darkness. Gallantmon Crimson Mode was down on both knees and completely purified from the corrupt darkness.

"Gallantmon Crimson Mode is back..." started MegaGargomon. However, due to the strain of exerting the darkness, he quickly glowed and regressed down to Guilmon form. "...or not."

(Cue Yu-Gi-Oh GX OST Agonizing Heart)

Upon seeing his Digimon healed, Dark Suzakato refused to accept this and cursed. " Damn it! No, I can't lose! I mustn't lose!" He quickly took to the air and attempted to retreat from the scene. "I WON'T LOSE! NOT EVER!" However, Seirika pursued him into the air and swerved right in front of him. "STAY AWAY FROM ME!" He shouted, panicking while holding his hands in front of his face. "STAY BACK!" He saw Seirika hovering closer to him.

To his surprise, Seirika placed his hands over his arms and gently lowered them. Then, in an act that surprised everyone present including Dark Suzakato, Seirika pulled the Dark Beast Tamer into an embrace and kissed him on the lips. Yes, Seirika firmly locked her lips with Dark Suzakato's! This action undoubtedly shocked all who were watching. Just like Guilmon before him, the darkness leaked right out of Dark Suzakato. Seirika still kept her lips on Dark Suzakato and watched as something resembling an orb flying out of the dark smoke.

Analyzing the dark cloud, Lady Lupin and Himakko were the first ones to discern the orb.

"Brother!" Lady Lupin called out, eagerly pointing to the orb. "Do you see that?"

Himakko nodded in response. "On it, sis!" He sheathed his hand claws and spun around, launching himself at the orb. "Drill Claw!" He reached and drilled the orb, shattering it into pieces, which caused the net above them to dissipate.

Now no longer infused with dark powers, Suzakato turned back to normal and fell to the ground. Seirika dove down and caught Suzakato, preventing his fall from to the ground. She helped land Suzakato safely on the ground and draped an arm over him.

(End theme)

Himakko dropped down and watched the net fully coming down. "So, that orb is what kept us contained here."

"And was more than likely what corrupted Takato as well," the observant Henbu pointed out whilst they gathered around Seirika and the Digimon.

This battle was finally decided and the net containing them inside Vampire Land was gone. Moreover, the darkness in Suzakato and Guilmon was removed.

"That was a good eye, you two!" Sara addressed the Tsubasa siblings.

Nodding, YoukaiInumon concurred with the Chimera girl. "Yeah, now we can get out of here and investigate that strong power we sensed."

Holding Suzakato in her arms, Seirika smiled peacefully and pathed to her spirit partner. At least, we didn't have to kill, gogglehead. Thanks for being with me, Seiryuu.

As Suzakato began to slowly stir, the dragon spirit pathed back to the Tamer. 'You're welcome Rika. I'm glad we met as well. Of course, the battles elsewhere have not finished yet, but even once they do the final test remains for Takato and Suzaku... to see if they can reunite once and for all.'

Seirika sighed deeply and pathed back to the Seiryuu. Easier said than done, but Suzaku needs to apologize to Takato when they reunite. For them to really regain each other's trusts...

"Guys! Takato is coming to!" Mika called to everyone as Suzakato stirred more and opened his eyes.

"Uh..." Suzakato moaned, opening his eyes and shaking his head. "Guys...?"

xxxxx

Cyber Land/Junk Graveyard/DXW-06

(Cue Dragonball Kai OST The Fierce Battle)

The Digital Warlord lunged right at X and attempted a forward katana slash. X easily swerved to the side and landed a knee lift into the Warlord's gut, knocking him straight into the air. As Warlord reached the air, Tike phased above the villain and caught him with a punch to his back. The Warlord grunted as he hit the ground and barely stood. He lifted his head and saw Kara flying at him, hitting him with a barrage of punches. The Warlord put up his guard against Kara's punches. Sam quickly appeared on the Warlord's right side and kicked him him to the side.

"Ugh! Damn you, nephew!" The Warlord shouted as he crashed through a mountain of Guardromon parts. He blasted through the garbage pile and watched David firing a volley of blasts that held him at bay. These punks are hell more improved than when I last engaged them! This is insane!

Suddenly, Sam came up behind the Warlord again. The teen threw a punch, which the Warlord turned to catch. While Sam distracted his villainous uncle, Keke appeared behind the Warlord and discharged a beam into his back. The blast caught the Warlord and pushed him back. The Warlord grunted when hitting the ground. He stirred and picked up his katana. He faced X and his cohorts fiercely glaring him down. Seething, the Warlord's pride wouldn't allow him to accept a loss to his old adversaries. Tike and Kara flew forward, shooting off discharged blasts right off the bat.

"Special Beam Cannon!" cried Kara.

"Tsunami Wave!" shouted Tike.

The Warlord brought dashed forward, surprising the twins as he cut down their attacks with his katana.

Tike cursed. "Damn! I think he's adapting to our attacks again!"

"Fools! Strong as you may be, your moves are predictable!" Warlord boasted as he slammed his sword to the ground, sending a projectile that forced Tike and Kara to evade. He shot up and kicked Tike back. Then, he grabbed Kara and prepared to blast her in the face.

"HANDS OFF HER!" David shouted as he hastily lunged at the villain and landed a kick to his face. He jumped in and grabbed Kara. "You ok?"

Kara nodded. "Yeah, thanks, David." She said, giving him a peck on his cheek. "I appreciate it."

David naturally blushed and watched Sam head off the Warlord. Sam unloaded with a flurry of punches. The Warlord dodged while perceiving all of his nephew's punches. He managed to land a gut punch into Sam and blasted him away. X and Keke stormed forward with X leading the charge. As X flew across to blast the Warlord, the katana-wielding villain prepared to counter, but X phased out of his view. Baffled, the Warlord's shocked reaction was greatly exaggerated. Keke flew right at Warlord and hits him with a side kick to his head. Warlord was dazed by her kick, allowing Tike and David to come up hitting him with a double punch to his back. Warlord stumbled forward and was met with an uppercut from X, sending him sailing into the air.

"Fury Blitz! Times 100!" X shouted as a fiery red aura forged around him. The power-up augmented his speed and allowed him to glide over the Warlord. He landed a barrage of rapid punches that pulverized the Warlord.

Feeling his body battered all over, one punch sent the Warlord sailing through another junk pile. X and his friends quickly unleashed an energy wave bombardment that covered the entire vicinity, hoping to draw the Warlord out. The villain flew out of the wreckage and was met with a massive which, forged by X and his cohorts. The beam hit the Warlord head-on and pushed him back.

X cupped his hands to one side and shouted. "Tsunami Wave!" He expelled a blue energy wave that caught and swept the Digital Warlord into the air, sending him flying out of Cyber Land.

"YOU'LL PAY FOR THIS!" The Warlord shouted as he forged a dimension portal and slipped through it, leaving X and his cohort dismayed.

(End theme)

"Augh, damn it all!" Tike whined. "The bastard got away!"

Kara added, clenching her fists. "We should've finished him!"

Sam replied. "Knowing that guy, he'll turn up again when we least expect it."

X nodded as she turned to his friends. "Yes, but we have more important matters to deal with it."

"Our friends," David said.

"We've got to find if any others are here," Keke suggested.

The masked watcher concurred with his friends. "Yeah, I'm sensing Ultima X not too far off. Let's move!" He quickly stormed ahead and led everyone to find Ultima X, Sonja, Ken (DF), and Justimon. Behind his mask, X conveyed concern. I hope whoever's fighting Arkadimon can manage to destroy him before he becomes a bigger problem.

xxxxx

As he jumped through a portal, the Warlord landed near the barrier covering Sun Land.

"Damn! Those pricks are much stronger united! I greatly underestimated them, but that doesn't mean I'm giving up," the Warlord wore a wicked smile, glaring over the Sun Land location. So, that's where Paradixalmon's fighting Tai, Dimitri, and that fake Ascendant bastard. Heh, no... I'll just wait and bide my time until it's the right moment to strike. None of them will suspect a thing!

xxxxx

Vampire Land/Cemetery/DXW-06

"Guys, I'm so sorry for what happened," apologized Suzakato after he and Guilmon felt horribly for what they've done. "I didn't mean for all this to happen! Paradixalmon was the one..."

Mika nodded. "We know. You're not at fault."

As Suzakato finished apologizing to his friends, Guilmon asked for forgiveness from the Digimon. Sakuyamon had regressed from Priestess Mode and Lady Lupin had split back to Yui and ShadowMetalGarurumon. The Digimon chose to remain in their Mega forms because they were able to feel Arkadimon's power.

Sakuyamon addressed Suzakato. "You and Guilmon have apologized enough, Takato. We all know what happened and it's ok now."

As Sakuyamon finished reassuring the Beast Tamer, Seirika leaned close and whispered something into his ear. "I know the others here won't say anything, but you better not tell anyone else about the kiss, gogglehead."

Taking heed of her warning, Suzakato sweatdropped and backed off. "Of course, Rika! But, thanks for getting me back. I really appreciate it."

As she nodded, Seirika was reluctant to give him a sarcastic remark. She withdrew whatever she wanted to say and smiled, seemingly liking the kiss.

Suddenly, a portal opened up before them and alarmed the group.

"What's going on?" Suzakato noticed the portal.

"Well we are in a new Digital World. Just about anything could happen," said YoukaiInumon as he and Sakuyamon stood in front of everyone.

From the portal came KaiserGreymon followed by Valkyrie Moon & Mars, and lastly came Ken's (XLR) Deckerdramon with Yusuke, Hiei, and Cammy riding on his back.

"Hey guys we found you! But, um... what is this place? Feels creepy!" wondered Sailor Moon, who was surveying the haunted land that once littered with tombstones.

"I don't know. Being in a place where all the water is solid gold is kinda weird as well," replied KaiserGreymon, who then noticed Suzakato. "Takato? Awesome! You're back on our side!"

Valkyrie Mars and Cammy saw this and quickly made their way to him.

"Thank goodness your back, brother," Mars called out to Suzakato and hugged him. "We were worried for you!"

"Mars... I..." Suzakato gave him and hugged the Miko Senshi.

"I'm sorry that ever had to happen to you, Takato."

Meanwhile, Cammy raced over and hugged Guilmon, who happily accepted her warm embrace.

Sailor Mars turned to Seirika, who was standing behind her. "You were able to stop him after all, Rika. You did well."

"Only thanks to the advice you gave me," the Warrior of Seiryuu replied with a smile.

Houou mentally interjected.'Thankfully all is well. Now all we have to hope for is for my love and Takato to reunite.

Valkyrie Mars thought. I hope so as well. The only reason he's in that form now is because he was able to siphon the power to do so, but when he de-transforms he won't be able to become that form again unless they reunite.

"So, now that we're back together, how about we go find the others?" suggested Yusuke, who was raring to go find their colleagues.

"I don't know if it's gonna be that easy," asserted KaiserGreymon. "It took us a while to find the portal get here. Who knows where it is in this place?"

Deckerdramon added. "Then, we best start looking... the evil presence is getting stronger by the minute."

Hiei's Jagan Eye flared in response to this as everyone could feel the evil surge of power.

"I wonder who has all this power anyway? Paradixalmon?" wondered Moon.

Hiei retorted. "Stupid woman, it isn't him. It's that Digimon who went on a rampage and knocked you all aside with ease."

Mars wanted to rebuke Hiei's snide remark, but the Houou was in agreement with the demon.

'Hiei is right. That big Digimon we met briefly in the previous world is the one who is responsible for this power surge. Apparently its power was suppressed by something, but somehow it was able to unlock them.'

It doesn't matter. Regardless of whether it or Paradixalmon are producing this power, both need to be stopped for what they've done. Mars pathed back as the larger group started looking for the way out of Vampire Land.

xxxxx

Canyon Land/Away from the Mountain Peak/DXW-06

Despite their best efforts, Metalla X, Celesta X, WarAngemon, and Shoutmon DX were knocked around by Arkadimon Super Ultimate. Arkadimon was not only able to turn the tide against the three Ascendants and the fused Digimon, but overwhelmed them with vicious tentacle slaps. WarAngemon and Shoutmon DX were the first to fall, but Metalla X stubbornly pressed on and bombarded Ki blasts that only slowed Arkadimon Super Ultimate momentarily. Celesta X recovered to her feet, standing and watching Metalla X unloading with excessive blasts at the black-bodied behemoth.

"I WON'T FALL TO YOU, YOU FREAK!" Metalla X bellowed, sending a blast that Arkadimon easily backhanded. "NO!" Before he had a chance to react, Arkadimon batted him away and sent him crashing to the ground.

Celesta X readied a stance and watched Arkadimon hovering near her. She tried her hardest to maintain her confident demeanor in the face of adversity, albeit in the form of Arkadimon Super Ultimate. Celesta X took a chance and glided up, gathering holy energies in her hands and firing machinegun-like fire that bombarded Arkadimon.

"This is for TK and my friends, you monster!" Celesta X cried out, repeatedly throwing volley of holy blasts that seemed to burn through his body. She shot up into the air at blinding speed and shouted a battle cry, forging a holy arrow that she threw them at him. "Celestial Arrow!" She dropped the arrow, which Arkadimon deleted with a beam. "NO!" As Arkadimon phased behind her, she whirled around and was caught with a tentacle slap to her face, nearly cold clocking her. As she hit the ground, she stirred and pulled herself up. "I won't... give up!" She boldly declared and turned, facing Arkadimon with determination. "I'm NOT afraid of you!"

Arkadimon's eyes burned with fury. "Dot Matrix!" The behemoth fired a beam toward Celesta X, who readily cupped her hands to one side and prepared to counteract Arkadimon's deletion beam.

Tai... I'm not going to let you and the others down! Celesta X thought as she noticed Pikkan, BW, and Mercuremon arriving at the scene. "BW? Pikkan?" She gasped.

"KARI!" BW called to the Bearer of Light.

Pikkan exclaimed. "She better get out of the way! That beam will kill her!"

Suddenly, Mercuremon noticed three beams of light shot out of his D-Scanner, confusing him greatly. "What?" He, Pikkan, and BW noticed the Triad spirits gliding over toward Celesta X. "What do they think they're doing?"

"They aren't really meaning to do that?" Pikkan exclaimed.

BW gaped as the Triad spirits materialized in front of Celesta X. "They're shielding Kari!"

Upon witnessing the Triad in front of her, Celesta X was taken aback by their immediate intervention.

"Who are you three?" Celesta X demanded. "Don't! You're going to die!"

"We have no regrets, Ascendant," the Triad said in unison. "Allow us to atone for our sins... and perhaps you'll be the one to destroy Paradixalmon. Make him pay for turning us into his enslaved puppets!"

"STOP!" Celesta X pleaded as the Triad took Arkadimon's Dot Matrix beam head-on, which quickly vaporized them on the spot. The female Ascendant fell into a state of disarray, witnessing three selfless heroes stone for all the wrongs they've committed and passed their hope that she'd destroy the monster who controlled them. The moment was every bit as impactful as BW's sacrifice.

BW, Pikkan, and Mercuremon arrived to witness the Triad sacrifice themselves.

"They gave their lives to save her," Pikkan said.

BW was reminded of his own heroic deed before he was resurrected with a new body. "Kari..."

(Cue Yu-Gi-Oh 5Ds Saviour/Majestic Star Dragon theme)

Suddenly, Celesta X felt that familiar jolt hit the back of her head. She let out a deafening scream as the surge of power she contained was unleashed. Her golden aura quickly was washed over with a purifying white aura. "AHHHH!" The surge of power erupted with powerful shockwaves that nearly blew away Pikkan, BW, and Mercuremon.

"What thou is this overwhelming power?" Mercuremon wondered, captivated by Celesta X's true power coming to the surface. "A power like this is what Lucemon would've likely feared."

For Pikkan, it was the first time he looked upon and assessed Celesta X's 'Amazing Grace' power. Needless to say, he was almost wanting to do a double take, but the sacrifice of the Triad made him that much angrier toward Arkadimon.

"She's opened the floodgates again," BW muttered, looking down Celesta X. "Pikkan, your thoughts?"

"Yeah... unbelievable... Tai's sister's something else..." Pikkan blinked thrice, feeling the strong holy vibe emanating from the level 2 Ascendant.

Arkadimon Super Ultimate was immediately drawn to Celesta X, who emerged wearing a thick white aura. Two white wings unfolded behind her back, flowing behind the sheen of light. Her eyes, still green, brimmed with tears but exuded a determined and vengeful gaze. The band that held her ponytail burned away, letting her blonde hair become longer and more rigid. The very tips of her bangs spiked up with one bang hanging down in front of her face. The increased power made the white light take on a jagged, fierce flame-like appearance, pulsing out at a high frequency. The white aura became an electrical-like one as many sparks seemingly constantly surround her body.

Narrowing her eyes calmly to Arkadimon, Celesta X relaxed and walked forward. "Since your allegiance is with Paradixalmon, I will show you no mercy. Arkadimon, prepare to die."

xxxxx

Various Lands/DXW-06

In Vampire Land, the group finally found the exit to enter another land. When they felt a surge of power from Celesta X, it was higher than Arkadimon's. Celesta X's surging power ripped through them like a hurricane.

"Holy... who's producing this energy?" wondered Yusuke with widened eyes.

Hiei gritted his teeth as his Jagan was on the verge of bleeding from the strain of trying to assess such a strength.

"Is it one of those Ascendants?" speculated KaiserGreymon. "If so that Yamato guy might have been right..."

Valkyrie Mars was also on alert. What do you think Houou? I haven't felt a power like this in a long time! Not even the Taiyoukai and dare I say Kaiser Ghidorah could compare to this force!

The cosmic entity responded to the Miko. 'I believe it is one of the Ascendants from the other world who came with us, but to think there are beings with powers as this. It may not be on par with mine but it is the closest I've ever felt.'

Valkyrie Moon was flabbergasted. "Man, just what is going on out there!"

"I'd like to know as well!" A giddy Mika exclaimed, who was ready to see the source of where the power came from.

MegaGargomon added, nodding. "Hey, I want to see, too!"

Seirika quickly added as she turned to everyone. "Well, we aren't going to know just standing around! Let's go!"

Suzakato urged everyone forward. "Let's get moving, everyone!"

Wasting no time, the amassed group nodded in unison and went through the portal before them.

xxxxx

In Cyber Land, Justimon and the others led by Sonja managed to find X and company.

"Hey guys!" yelled Sonja as they began to sense Celesta X's power ascension.

Ultima X felt that familiar power rising. "It's Kari!"

"Oh boy. Looks like Kari's getting serious," said X as he sensed her power increasing.

"Wonder what could've happened to make Mom angry," Kara said, furrowing her brows. "One thing is for sure... Arkadimon's going down."

"Hell yeah he is!" said Tike before noticing Wormmon. "Hey, Ken, is Wormmon ok?"

Ken (DF) nodded. "Yeah, we had a tough battle, but we made it through. I guess now it's Kari's turn."

X folded his arms whilst he, the Ascendants, and Sonja properly assessed Celesta X's power. Let's see if Arkadimon can stand up to the Amazing Grace.

xxxxx

In Honey Land, BanchoLeomon and Valkyrie Sedna both perked up at what they were feeling as did the ninjas.

"Whoa that's a lot of power! Even more than Ken emits as Dramon X!" exclaimed Mikato.

"Who is producing such energy?" wondered Sedna.

When feeling the surge of Ki growing, BanchoLeomon smiled. "It is Tai's sister, Kari. She is currently the strongest Ascendant of them all." What the warrior said astounded everyone present.

"Wow really?" Ranamon blinked. "That's awesome!"

"I guess whoever she's fighting must've stirred her up," BanchoLeomon explained whilst leading everyone in one direction. "I haven't felt such power since her battle with Virus. Let's see if we can find the others and join up with them."

"Right!" The others replied in earnest.

xxxxx

In Dragon Land, Rio and Sailor Venus also felt the power surging.

"Holy... who could emitting such a powerful force?" wondered Valkyrie Venus, who fell into shock. The Taiyoukai have nothing on this power! Whatever it is.

The Xros Heart group looked at them as did Jet Silphymon, all of whom were deeply concerned.

"What are y'all talking about?" Taiki curiously asked.

Shoutmon replied. "I'd like to know, too!"

Akari added. "Me, too! What are you guys going on about 'sensing' this and that?"

Kiriha replied. "They've got better perception involving powers it seems."

Nene nodded. "Indeed they do."

"What's wrong, you two?" JetSilphymon asked as she turned toward Rio and Valkyrie Venus. "I barely just felt a vibe! Is it that powerful Digimon again?"

Rio dismissed his claim and nodded. "Not exactly, but someone whose fighting him apparently just kicked it up a notch and now whoever it is... is on par with him." As he said this, it shocked everyone. "Is there a way out of here? We need reunite with the others!"

Valkyrie Venus added eagerly. "Please! You guys know your way around here better than we do!"

Shoutmon replied and gave a thumbs up. "Sure! We've been here before so we know where the exit is!"

"Yeah, follow us!" Taiki smiled and led everyone to the nearest portal. With that, everyone followed and headed for their destination.

xxxxx

Sun Land/Plains Area/DXW-06

Feeling the rising power emanating from Celesta X, Omega X promptly stated. "It looks like sis has decided to get serious again. Haven't felt this since the Virus battle."

Making no argument, Angemon X replied. "Yeah, I wonder what could've triggered it?"

Omega X shrugged. "Whatever the cause may be, I know one thing. Her opponent is in for the fight of his life."

As the two conversed about this, Dramon X, Paradixalmon X and Beyond had stopped moving whilst sensing Celesta X's rising power as far as they were.

Sheesh! First Arkadimon now another power? Where is it all coming from? I'm scared to know who this is! thought Dramon X, who quickly shook his head and shifted his attention on Paradixalmon. I can't let myself be distracted! I've gotta kill the one before me!

Paradixalmon was in a state of shock. Just like the Houou, a power I can not fathom comes to light, but it doesn't matter. Neither power alone could hope to beat that 'thing'. Perhaps if I were to absorb these powers along with the ones I have now, we might have a chance.

Beyond, however, balled up his hands into fists and growled. That stupid Warlord! He didn't take enough factors into account and now there is a possibility everything could be for naught! He better not show his face here or I'm gonna kill him myself!

xxxxx

Castle/Unknown Pocket Dimension

"So, she is the strongest one of all Ascendants right now," GranDracmon pondered whilst sipping wine from a goblet. A twisted and evil grin curved across his draconian features. "Once I get the Darkness iPad to its full power, she'll be the first one I will take pleasure in killing." The demonic lord narrowed his burning yellow eyes at the now leveled-up Celesta X, who just invoked her 'Amazing Grace' Ascendant level 2 power.

xxxxx

Canyon Land/Away from the Mountain Peak/DXW-06

Calmly sauntering forward, Celesta X expressed no fear and didn't let Arkadimon Super Ultimate intimidate her. WarAngemon, Shoutmon DX, and Metalla X stirred as they watched Celesta X walking forward fearlessly.

"K...Kari... so, you unleashed Amazing Grace," WarAngemon said, barely sitting up on his hands. "Good... now Arkadimon's in for it..."

Shoutmon DX was baffled from the strong power exuding from Celesta X. "...holy crap. Her power is even stronger than Ken's! I didn't think that was possible! Wow... you guys weren't kidding when you hyped her power being great."

"She currently is our most powerful Ascendant and the only one to have reached level 2," the Bearer of Hope confirmed, smiling proudly as he viewed Celesta X closely. "The last time she used this form, our last big enemy, Virus, paid with his own life."

Metalla X scowled and watched his rival's sister standing in the spotlight, ready to do her thing. As much as he didn't want to admit it, he knew he was light years behind Celesta X.

Celesta X level 2 stood in a battle posture and lunged forward to attack Arkadimon head-on. The behemoth didn't let up and fired a deletion beam toward her direction. As she phased out, the beam seemingly passed right through her. It was an after image as Arkadimon pivoted his view and saw Celesta X already hovering near his head. Celesta X let out a fierce cry and landed a kick that ripped through his face. Not only that but the kick knocked Arkadimon away with staggering physical force.

"WHOA!" Shoutmon DX gaped in shock. "She actually dazed Arkadimon in his Super Ultimate form! THE Arkadimon!"

"What did I tell ya?" WarAngemon gave a half-hearted laugh, struggling to hold back the pain shooting through his body.

As Celesta X landed, Arkadimon turned and fired his deletion beam. "Dot Matrix!" He aimed to erase the Ascendant completely.

"OH NO! HEY! MOVE!" Shoutmon DX shouted.

Bam!

At the last second, Pikkan and BW intervened as they landed a punch to Arkadimon's face. Their double force dazed the behemoth, but not to the extent Celesta X hit him. Pikkan, BW, and Mercuremon quickly provided a distraction for Celesta X.

"Hurry up and charge up your attack, Kari!" BW said. "We'll keep him busy!"

Celesta X watched as the three headed off Arkadimon and charged up Ki into her right hand.

Irked with the interference, Arkadimon Super Ultimate took measures against the three. He watched as they jumped at him. He batted the three down with a torrent of massive tentacles. One tendril batted Mercuremon down. Another grabbed BW and slammed him into Pikkan. All the while, Celesta X flew right at Arkadimon with her right fist outstretched. Her entire frame became covered with a white aura, which allowed her to propel quickly and punch right through Arkadimon's torso! Everyone present gaped in shock as Celesta X ripped through Arkadimon's torso and left a gaping hole in him. Celesta X's own holy Ki dispelled the darkness from the creature and weakened him, causing him to collapse.

"Yeah! You got him, Kari!" WarAngemon encouraged her. "Now finish him off!"

Shoutmon DX was practically speechless. "...is this really Kari Kamiya?" I didn't think I'd see one this ruthless in a fight before!

Weakened from the gaping hole in his chest, Arkadimon moaned loudly and barely turned his head to fire another beam. Celesta X evaded the beam and phased out of the way. Then, he shifted his view and saw Celesta X standing out in the open, readily glaring him down with cold intentions.

Arkadimon Super Ultimate bellowed and fired again. "Dot Matrix!"

Everyone watched from the sidelines, witnesses to the great unveiling of Celesta X's ultimate attack.

"This is it," WarAngemon muttered. "Time to show everyone what you're made of."

Pikkan stirred and watched Celesta X cupping her hands together. "What the hell is she doing? She's gonna get her ass vaped if she doesn't move!"

"Not quite," BW chuckled as he sat up and observed Celesta X. "Watch and you'll be amazed."

"But, that's... Arkadimon..."

"Watch, Pikkan. You're going to learn why she's the sister of the great Omega X."

Celesta X chanted and accumulated a ball of white Ki inside her hands. "Holy..." The Dot Matrix closed in toward her as the wings behind her lit up a translucent white light that seemingly faded and coalesced with the white Ki in her cusps. "Terra..." Quickly pushing her cupped hands up, she unleashed a massive white beam that impacted with Virus' Ghostly Terra Beam. "HOLY TERRA BEAM!" She screamed and concentrated her attack directly on Arkadimon's Dot Matrix. The holy attack overpowered the monstrous behemoth's feared attack and ripped through it like nothing. With renewed courage unleashed, Celesta X pumped more power into her attack and blew him away into nothing.

(End theme)

Every witness were beyond astonished with Celesta X's crushing victory. Arkadimon Super Ultimate was completely wiped out by Celesta X's full-powered Holy Terra Beam, an attack that grievously crippled Virus.

Sinking to her knees, a seemingly exhausted Celesta X was caught by WarAngemon and Shoutmon DX. They picked her up from hitting the ground. Celesta X, still in her level 2 form, smiled and looked to the skies.

"...Guys, I did it..."

WarAngemon nodded and draped an arm over Celesta X. "Of course, you didn't give up."

"That was awesome what you did, Kari," Shoutmon DX confessed. "I mean, that was Arkadimon of all Digimon! That's nothing to scoff at!"

BW shook his head, albeit he still impressed at the account. "See? Isn't she something else, Pikkan?"

Pikkan added. "Got to admit... these Kamiyas are on a whole another league. Having fought Tai before and recognize that attack, I can easily tell she learned from the best."

Mercuremon coughed. "These Ascendants... truly are powers beyond my comprehension."

As for Metalla X, he begrudgingly allowed Celesta X to have her moment. Standing on his own, Metalla X stared at Celesta X painstakingly.

WarAngemon helped Celesta X stand on her own power.

"TK, we have to find the others," Celesta X suggested as she remembered the Triad's sacrifice. "There's lives you just don't use against their will. Those three asked me to avenge them and I'm not about to let Paradixalmon toy with anymore innocent lives, especially that Takato kid!" She openly declared and turned to everyone. "We need to go. I've got a lock on Paradixalmon's energy."

"Hey, look up there!" Shoutmon DX pointed up to the net barrier that came down. "So, that's what confined us here."

"Then, we will leave by flying off this land," Celesta X said as she slowly took to the air, determined to find her brother and stop Paradixalmon. "We don't have much time! I know where my brother, Dimitri, and Ken are!"

As Mercuremon rode on Shoutmon DX, everyone else flew up and followed Celesta X.

"Their sacrifices didn't go in vain, Mercuremon," BW reassured the Warrior of Metal. "Kari avenged them and allowed them solace."

Mercuremon replied with some sadness in his tone. "Yes."

We're coming, guys! Celesta X thought as she focused on reaching Sun Land.

xxxxx

Sun Land/Plains Area/DXW-06

"It seems Kari won her fight," said Omega X as they felt Arkadimon's power fading. You did good, sis. Now it's our turn... well after I see what Dramon X's capable of on his own.

Beyond nodded dismissively as Dramon X and Paradixalmon stared each other down.

"Now that we have no more distractions, let's start the party!" declared Dramon X as he lunged at Paradixalmon.

Both disappeared from sight as the sounds of swords clashing were heard in the sky.

"Shouldn't we get in on this?" asked Angemon X.

Omega X replied, surprisingly him with his remark. "I wanna see what this kid can do first. Then we go in. Of course, if he gets into trouble before we can see what he can do, we'll jump in regardless."

"You've changed Tai. Definitely learned from the Virus ordeal, huh?"

"Yeah, but the difference is here we both know this kid isn't someone to be underestimated."

Angemon X nodded as they watched the two warriors slow down enough to be seen. Paradixalmon kicked Dramon X in the stomach area, causing him to double over and cough up blood. However, this allowed Dramon X to grab his leg and snap the upper portion of it with a downwards elbow causing him to scream in pain. Both landed on the ground for a moment. It became obvious Paradixalmon wasn't going to be walking properly anymore and was forced to float.

"You little sack of...!" He was cut off when Dramon X ran at him again. Once again the two engaged in a heated round of sword combat until finally Paradixalmon was able to get an opening and pointed his cannon toward Dramon X. "Goodbye. Grey Nova..."Unfortunately, for him, he wasn't able to finish his attack as the converter on Dramon X's back glowed.

Dramon's body suddenly turned a bright red and he vanished from sight.

"Where did he!" he quickly surveyed around the spacious vicinity.

(Cue Gundam 00 OST Fight)

An augmentation technique like Omega X's? Both Paradixalmon and Beyond thought as they searched for Dramon X, who suddenly reappeared behind Paradixalmon whilst wielding two beam sabers.

Whirling around, Paradixalmon shouted. "He got behind me?" He was quickly knocked to the ground in a hurry.

Omega X and Angemon X's eyes both widened in surprise.

Angemon X carefully noted. "It looks like your Fury Blitz!" He and Omega X watched Dramon X glowing with a bright red light.

However Omega X narrowed his eyes. Something doesn't add up here. If it was the same as my Fury Blitz, his power level would've gone up. I sense a little power increase, but not much of one... so what is the purpose of it?

Growing frustrated, Paradixalmon angrily bumrushed him. "Omega X tried that trick with me once! I'm not falling for it twice!" He boasted as he lunged forward and tried to engage Dramon X. However, Dramon X quickly vanished and began attacking him with repeated strikes that he couldn't dodge. Though, while the blows were more consistent than with Omega X's attack, he could feel that the power had not increased. No it's not the same! He's increased his speed, but not his power! Alarmed with his predicament, he watched Dramon X slamming him into the ground again after nearly cutting his chest up with his sabers. "DAMN YOU!" He cursed aloud as he hit the ground.

Dramon X dropped to the ground near Omega X and Angemon X, breathing hard as the glow faded.

(End theme)

"What was that technique you just used?" inquired Omega X.

I could barely keep up with him when used it! Still glad dad isn't here right now. thought Angemon X as Dramon X sheathed his two sabers.

"Well, I called it the Shout Force for a time, but I think I'll be going with Soul Force now, especially since Shoutmon's not in Veemon anymore." After he finished explaining, Dramon X looked back to Paradixalmon. "Still, I couldn't finish the bastard."

Once Dramon X turned his back, Omega X once again glanced at the converter on his back. Even I can't move that fast! That device has got to have something to do with it... wait a second! AlforceVeedramon is one of the fastest digimon known to man. Could that be why he's so... He was cut off when Paradixalmon got up fuming mad.

"I will not stand for this!" The villain protested before suddenly several cuts opened all over his body, unleashing a liquid like substance. "What the?"

Beyond, Omega X, and Angemon X's were shocked as they witnessed this sudden twist.

"See, if you stayed still, you wouldn't be enduring the pain and instead escape death's sweet release," said Dramon X as he walked up to Paradixalmon. "You only beat Angemon X because you called out reinforcements and partially due to him running at you head-on. When you fought Omega X, it's true Dark Suzakato cost you that battle, but it makes one realize that you're not as tough as you think you are without all your stolen victims' powers."

Paradixalmon growled and leapt at him. However, Dramon X quickly threw his hands out, throwing sand into Paradixalmon's eyes before grabbing him by the head and slamming both his legs underneath the Mega's neck. He immediately applied a chokehold in the process.

"Augh, sand! You little... when did you get... I'm losing air..." gagged Paradixalmon whilst struggling to get out of the hold. However, due to the wounds and Dramon X's positioning, he couldn't get out of the hold or summon up enough power to force a break.

Dramon X berated the villain. "Again, since when do bad guys EVER play fair? Choking you to death is the general idea you moron!" He increased the hold's pressure, making Paradixalmon scream in pain.

"Isn't that the Undertaker's Hell's gate?" wondered Omega X as he and Beyond recognized the hold.

Dimitri did not as wrestling had mostly disappeared in his timeline. Beyond watched this as his anger boiled. He quickly grabbed the communications device, calling for his other partner-in-crime.

"Digital Warlord!" Beyond shouted, drawing Omega X and Angemon X's attentions as a visual window opened showing the injured Warlord.

"What is it, Beyond? Have you finished your...?" he stopped when he saw Paradixalmon X being choked out by Dramon X.

"You see this? That's the so called 'fake Ascendant' who is beating my partner so badly that I can't believe you underestimated him!"

The Warlord was stupefied when seeing this. "How was I supposed to know...he looks so...?"

(Cue Yu-Gi-Oh 5Ds OST Placido's Fusion)

Beyond cut him off. "This alliance between us is over and you better pray they stop me cause if they don't I'm coming for you when this is over!" With that, he officially ended communications with the Warlord as his Digivice glowed with a dark power. "I'm coming, buddy! Hang on!" Just then, he turned into energy and slammed into his partner forcing Dramon X to let go and back away as a ball of data surrounded the two. From it came a dark aura that shook the the three Ascendants.

"Oh great! What now?" muttered Dramon X as the ball of light soon faded.

Before them stood a smaller warrior as Beyond now fused with his Digimon partner. He now wore Paradixalmon's body as armor like themselves, but retained the mask as well as Dorbickmon's head, which now had a ponytail of hair coming from the back of it. The two cannons on his shoulders shrank down to small blasters, which now sat forward. Most intriguing of all, the second mouth was now gone, but the eyes were still there glaring at the three Ascendants.

"He's an Ascendant like us?" shouted a baffled Angemon X.

Clenching his fists, Omega X charged. "Another dark Ascendant... just like him...!" He muttered thinking back to another warrior he had dealt with before fighting Virus.

The new warrior unsheathed his Dark Wolf Blade and snarled. "I hope you are all happy. It's be a long time since I've had to bring this form out. Prepare yourselves to die at the hands of Paradixalmon X!" He declared as he phased out and reappeared near them, charging at the three, all of whom prepared themselves.

"Get ready for the big rumble, guys!" Omega X exclaimed as he and three dropped into fighting stances.

The final battle of the war Paradixalmon commenced and the three Ascendants would be the ones to try to finish it.

(End theme)

xxxxx

Next act: Arise, Gaiamon X! Take the Fight to Paradixalmon!

xxxxx

A/N: Seirika brings back Takato and Sakuyamon restores Guilmon. All it took was a kiss from Rika to get the job done (and destroying orb to release Paradixalmon's control over him and Guilmon). Kari/Celesta X unleashes her level 2 Ascendant power and 'Amazing Grace' to destroy Arkadimon Super Ultimate. And now the three Ascendants are raring to go against Beyond/Paradixalmon's Ascendant form.

Yep, the final battle is now set and all the players are converging to Sun Land.

It all comes to a head next chapter! Make sure you're there for the big Ascendant throwdown and the fall-out that follows!

Send a review and see you soon!