Shin-YuYuGiDigiMoon

by Kanius

In this YuYuGiDigiMoon reboot, it starts with Yuki Judai meeting Takato at a convention. Then, an alien attack occurs and things spiral out of control. Groups of heroes unite to save their world from an invasive force called the Rajita Empire, who seek Sailor Moon's Silver Crystal. Afterward, more enemies come out of the shadows to challenge our heroes.

5. Final Arc: The Defiant Chaos Part I

A/N: It's been a minute since the previous Shin-YYGDM update. That wait is over. The final arc of this story is upon us.

It's been decided that the Defiant Chaos arc will be split into three parts. This first part will cover the 'Prelude' part of the three parter with events preceding the Defiants event. Parts 2 and 3 will cover the Defiant War and the final conflict against Paradius.

Without any more delay, enjoy this chapter!

---

Shinjuku, Tokyo (新宿区, 東京)/CainCorp/Rooftop/June 2019

After enduring a morning of conference calls from business partners, Cain Bearer went up to his favorite cooling spot to meditate. Lately other than his usual business, Cain worked tirelessly behind the scenes with the belligerent Paradius duo, who've formed an underground alliance with the CainCorp CEO.

Closing his eyes, Cain reflected on the memories of his entire life.

(Cue Persona 3 OST - Mistic)

"There was a time I used to adore superpowered beings, especially heroes who fought in the name of justice and peace. I was but one of many children who idolized the notion that superheroes would uphold those qualities and punish injustice. Yes, there was a time when I dreamed of becoming a hero and fighting for humanity. I once collected all the toys and comic books based on my favorite heroes growing up. It was a good time for any child with aspiring hopes and dreams. Back when I could dwell on childish fantasies. To this day, I wish I had a child who could indulge in those fantasies and remind me of what I once had. As I got older, my father reminded me that when boys become men we should put away childish things and take on the responsibilities to prepare us for what the real world has to offer. However, I didn't forget those cherished memories and continued to express my support for the superpowered heroes that aided humanity."

Taking out a folded piece from his shirt pocket, Cain opened it, which was a photo of a beautiful woman with shoulder-length dark hair, a fair complexion, and green eyes. She wore an enchanting and loving smile, bringing a smile to the CEO's hardened features.

"Mei, how long has it been? Nearly 4 ½ years since you left this world? How I wish we could've had a son or a daughter. I know you wanted a child and I anticipated becoming a father but…" Cain placed the photo back into his pocket and gritted. "They took you from me. Those superpowered beings, who were supposed to protect civilians. They were unable to save you due to negligence. I remember it as clear as day."

The CainCorp CEO and his wife gazed at the stars together on a quiet and beautiful moon night. With hands joined, the couple turned to meet each other's gaze and leaned over for a kiss. Before their lips met, they heard a crash followed by a splash into a pond near them. Cain and Mei hurried over to check on what crashed near them.

Upon arriving, they saw someone standing covered in pond water. Neither could make out who it was. The individual's appearance was dark and hard to make out. With closer inspection, Cain noted this figure had a skirt and a uniform dress shirt. When Cain tried to give the person support, the mysterious woman seized Cain's neck and lifted him effortlessly, letting out a menacing hiss.

In response to her husband's life in danger, Mei quickly charged and pushed the attacker back. Dropping Cain, the woman's eyes shifted toward Mei. She quickly put her hand through Mei's chest and killed her right in front of Cain, whose eyes widened in horror. Diving forward, Cain caught Mei and shook her. As her vision started to blur, Mei reached for her husband's face and begged him to stay alive. When the dark assailant backed away, Cain turned toward her enraged. Before he could get a chance to attack her, Mei grabbed his hand and pleaded to him not to leave.

"I couldn't save you that night, Mei. Whoever that figure was… had an attire similar to one of those cursed Sailor Guardians. And it was no coincidence, once those Sailor Guardians started to appear, that woman appeared and killed you, my beloved. She took you from me, just when we wanted to help you. And since then, more of these superpowered beings started to appear and left collateral damage in their wake! Countless lives have had to endure damages to their homes and livelihoods."

Holding his wife's hand by her bedside, Cain pleaded for her to stay with him.

As Mei gave her last smile, her heart rate flatlined. Grasping his deceased wife's hand, the man lost not only his beloved wife but a faithful companion and business partner. Without Mei, Cain's prospects for a family shattered. In his mind, no one could replace Mei. With his wife gone, and that mysterious assailant at large and with superpowered beings running loose, Cain's resentment toward the superpowered people grew. His childhood admiration for superheroes was long gone.

"Mei, I swear on your behalf and by our bond, I shall see to it that these superpowered pestilences are removed until I find out who took you away from me. That individual will meet a thousand deaths with what I have in store for it," Cain muttered under his breath and gritting his teeth.

With Mei gone, Cain had changed his outlook on superpowered people, and in the years since he has gone on various media outlets to voice his discontent for their ravaging of public property. It didn't matter whether they were good or evil, he viewed them as destructive entities and only wished that no one has to suffer the way he has. And while the vast majority favor the heroes that have saved them from malevolent forces, a vocal minority was won over by Cain's rhetoric and formed 'defiant like stances against the superpowered beings.

Just then, Cain's train of thought was interrupted with his smartphone vibrating. He took out his phone and checked the caller ID.

"Hello?" Cain answered.

However, Cain was willing to conspire with other powerful people whose interests aligned with his views.

"Mr. Bearer, we'd like to inform you that the SOUJA units are ready to be tested. Moreover, we'd like you to be there to witness them in our new facility."

"I see. I'll be right over there, Mr. Grand," Cain answered the head of Paradius.

Then, Sharon's voice was heard on the other line.

"I think you'll be quite pleased with what you see, Mr. Bearer."

Cain calmly smirked. "I'll be the judge of that. I'll be there in a few." He ended his call with the Paradius duo and sent a video call to his secretary.

"Mr. Bearer? What is it?"

"I'm coming down. We're going to Paradius Corporation."

"As you wish, sir."

After ending his brief video call, Cain took another look over Tokyo's dense cityscape and gripped his phone.

"I've watched them play out their hero theatrics far long enough. For all their good intentions, they've left collateral damage in wake of all the battles they've been involved in. They've turned this city into their personal playground without anyone policing their actions and tightening a leash on them. They may have a vast majority of these ignorant masses on their side, but there's a select minority that has voiced their concerns and has seen enough. These vocal minorities wish to take matters into their own hands. However, they lack leadership. They lack someone with a vision that can help them make these heroes know the damage they've caused to people's homes and livelihoods. They can use all the magic to clean up their messes, but people don't forget and won't forgive. I'm about to give these defying people a platform to resist the heroes they've once idolized. These are my Defiants."

(End theme)

---

Final Arc

The Defiant Chaos

---

Shinjuku, Tokyo (新宿区, 東京)/CainCorp/Cain Bearer's Office/1:23 PM (JST)

(Cue Final Fantasy VII Remake OST - Shinra Building)

As he returned to his office, Cain saw his secretary/bodyguard, Grace Groves, waiting for him with Jeremiah Grand and Sharon River beside her. He also saw another individual with them. It was a Hispanic man with a medium build, a thick black goatee, black hair with signs of gray on the sides, and wearing a white lab coat.

"Mr. Bearer, I wanted to inform you about Project SOUJA's progress," the man in the lab coat addressed him.

"Dr. Viktor Trask, what do you think to report?"

"Why don't I just show you?" Trask offered as he escorted Cain and his colleagues into one of his main laboratories. Upon entering, he showed them toward a large room containing cybernetic humanoids lined up in rows and placed in an assembly line. All of them were inactive.

"I'm astounded you were able to mass-produce this many, Trask," Cain was flabbergasted by a large number of androids.

"It's amazing how quickly we were able to mass-produce this many, Mr. Bearer. Just three years ago, we couldn't understand the alien language when we collected leftover tech from the Rajita ships. When I told you what we found, you became intrigued."

"The SOUJA program?"

"Yes, as he rummaged through the leftover ships and tech, we discovered one of these crafts carried a biomechanical organism. The SOUJA was that organism. We made an outstanding discovery by learning more about an organism with biological and mechanical functions. It was even more astounding when it communicated with us with verbal and telepathic means."

(Cue Two Steps From Hell - Machine Dreams (Amaria))

As Grace walked up to a SOUJA drone, she glared into its lifeless mechanical visage. She shuddered and looked away.

"These things give me the creeps," Grace remarked.

"You needn't worry. They're all inactive now and the SOUJA core has been acting rather inconsistently lately."

"What do you mean inconsistently? Has it been acting erratically?" Cain queried his concerns.

"No, nothing like that, but it has shifted into stasis mode. We did test a few drones and they were in working order. However, I can't in good conscience send them out in public yet."

"Seems our AI has been acting rather stubbornly, don't you think?" Sharon suggested as she approached a confined room with a large tank containing a half-humanoid cybernetic entity floating inside. When the others examined the SOUJA unit, they saw two glowing orbs adorning its forehead; a cyan one and a purple one.

"I don't know when the SOUJA core will awaken from its stasis but hopefully not for long."

"No worries, Dr. Trask. The core will awaken when it's ready. It won't be long. Thanks to Jeremiah and I's involvement, we've helped accelerate the SOUJA production process faster than you anticipated."

"Yes, your resources were most valuable and have helped hasten the developments. And you helped us translate the Rajita language. Without you, I can only imagine the process would've taken us more than three years."

Jeremiah folded his arms and walked around the SOUJA core's tank. "We're exactly where we need to be right now. I imagine in a few months, the first SOUJA drones will be released and sent to neutralize those super-powered beings whose existence is a danger to the public. Oh, and I do believe you have our blueprints for the SOUJA suits?"

"Yes, we're in the process of developing SOUJA armored suits for subjects to use but we haven't found any volunteers who'd be willing to use them," Trask informed them.

"I think there may be a few Defiants out there who share Mr. Bearer's viewpoints who'd be more than happy to volunteer," Sharon darkly smiled as she placed a hand on the tank, causing the core inside to awaken from its stasis. "Oh, look, it's awake. See? It just needed some shut-eye."

"Oh! I don't know what you just did but it's now willing to cooperate!" The head of CainCorp's science division became flabbergasted with the SOUJA core's awakening.

"Excellent. Now, you can resume your work without delay, Dr. Trask. Inform me of your progress," Cain said, shaking himself out of his bewildered state.

"Yes, sir."

Grace suspiciously turned toward Sharon. "How did you do that?"

"Do what? It just happened to wake up from its sleep?" Sharon waved her arms and feigned ignorance. As she walked leaving Grace confused, Cain's bodyguard noted when Jeremiah and Sharon partnered with CainCorp, she noticed the hastening progress of Cain's scientific projects, especially the SOUJA mass development line meeting faster than expected developments. Ever since they joined, she wasn't comfortable with the Paradius duo being given more control than they deserved.

Just then, they heard someone walking in on them. As they turned, they saw a woman with shoulder-length steel blonde hair and garbed in a full-bodied and skintight black suit with matching black boots. She is seen wearing red lipstick and carrying a gun on her left hip gun holster.

"Mr. Bearer, I've returned from my last hit job," Psyren addressed the CainCorp CEO.

"Did you take care of those smugglers like I asked, Psyren?" Cain asked.

"Yes, and finished them proficiently," the hired assassin resolutely said.

"Excellent. Come by my office to receive your pay."

"Yes, sir."

"Are you sure employing an assassin in your service is a good idea?" Grave whispered to her boss.

"You needn't worry, Grace. She takes out those who try to steal from my company or is a threat to my life. As much support I've gained from Defiants, I still have my enemies who want my head on a silver platter. Just like you, she's an insurance policy."

"I still think killing them is excessive."

"Perhaps but you wouldn't want anything to happen to me, do you?"

Grace nodded knowingly. "Of course not, sir."

"Then, let Psyren carry out her duty and you continue to be my right hand."

"Yes, I understand. After all, you were the one to take me in and saved me from being homeless."

Before her bodyguard duties, Grace was the leader of a teenage street gang. Her life turned around when they betrayed and left her for dead. She spent the remaining days homeless and wandering the back alleys searching for a place to call her own. One day, Cain, who at the time grieved over Mei's passing, found Grace sitting in a corner and offered her a place to stay. Then, Cain was attacked by her former gang, but Grace intervened on Cain's behalf and severely beat down the gang she once considered a family. Intrigued by her strength and loyalty, Cain adopted Grace to be his foster daughter.

For the last few years, Grace became devoted to serving her Cain and accomplishing any tasks bestowed on her. Living under Cain, she received the best living conditions she could ask for and received training from the most proficient martial artists that Cain could afford, which helped enhance her fighting skills to better protect Cain.

Once the Paradius duo and Psyren came into their life, Grace sensed odd and unnerving vibes from them that she couldn't help shake off. She, especially, doesn't take kindly to the Paradius duo and Psyren trying to win favors with her foster father.

"Mr. Bearer, we will continue to keep in touch," Jeremiah said, shaking Cain's hand.

"Yes, we will, Mr. Grand," Cain said.

"We're that much closer to meeting our expectations. As the SOUJA assembly line is still in the works, Sharon and I are seeing the progress of our secret science projects. In time, they'll be ready to assist with the SOUJA sentries."

"I look forward to what you have to show. This alliance is bearing many fruits," Cain said.

"Why don't we take our leave, Jeremiah?" Sharon asked as she and Jeremiah walked out together.

"Is it wise to maintain this alliance?" Grace quietly asked Cain as they watched the Pradius duo leave.

"To rid ourselves of the super-powered threats, then yes. We cannot delay our progress any further. With the SOUJA core once again functioning, the SOUJA production line can resume. What has got you worked up, Grace?"

Nodding, Grace muttered. "They just give me uncomfortable vibes."

"How so?"

"I-I can't explain…"

"You're worrying too much. Now, let's let Dr. Trask and the science division handle their work. We're going back to the office."

"Yes," she followed Cain and walked by Psyren, who accompanied them.

"Grace, eyes up here."

"Sorry," she apologetically said as she escorted Cain out of the lab.

Upon returning to his office, Cain gave Psyren her pay and watched the assassin leave. Grace remained standing beside the CainCorp CEO.

"Calm your nerves, Grace. One day, we'll be free of these super-powered beings that occupy our world. Don't you think we as normal humans will feel safer without them? A world with no Sailor Guardians, Digimon, extraterrestrials, and other such beings from other realms beyond our comprehension. I'd settle for a world without them. What about you?"

"I don't know. Maybe."

Cain smirked coolly and turned his chair around while facing a view of Shinjuku's cityscape. "Give it time. You'll see it my way and I promise your future will be more secure. I promise. Because I know Mei would be happy about how we're going to change this world for the better."

Grace nodded as her worries about the Paradius duo, Psyren, and the SOUJA core stressed her hard. "As you say."

(End theme)

---

Chiyoda, Tokyo/Tokyo District Court (東京地方裁判所)/July 2019/9:45 AM (JST)

(Cue Gurren Lagann OST Disc 2 - 15 - Let's Settle with Glasses / Megane de Kimeyou / メガネで決めよう)

A court debate was summoned discussing Kaiba Corporation's usage of the Duel Monster system and the irreparable physical and mental damage it has caused individuals. Taking time out of his already busy schedule, Cain Bearer decided to take a stand against KaibaCorp's CEO Kaiba Seto and Industrial Illusion's own Pegasus J. Crawford. Seeing that Duel Monsters are somehow linked to the rise of superpowered beings, Cain wanted to hear from the architects of the Duel Monsters.

"So, let me get this straight, Mr. Bearer. You're trying to imply that my game has caused damage to people who've played our company's games and some of these super-powered individuals might've gained their powers from them? Do you realize how absurd that sounds?" Seto Kaiba openly debated with the CainCorp CEO. "Yes, I can take responsibility for any injury that may come from any technical malfunctions or psychological damage caused by gross imagery from a few of the monsters. I do admit that my game is not for everyone and surely not for the weak of heart. However, you still haven't provided me proof of people gaining special powers from my game or convinced me that Duel Monsters is a dangerous game that should be banned from the market."

"Perhaps I was too crass suggesting you shutdown your game productions. You do after all have much to gain from Duel Monsters. That said, you might advise caution on what you put out on the market. I have reason to believe there may be someone within your company who might be utilizing some supernatural magic to cause monsters to come to life and turn humans into monsters themselves."

Hearing this, Seto furrowed his brow. "You're suggesting someone might be trying to sabotage my company?"

"Heh, don't mind me. It's just an assumption but I'd be cautious who you hire nowadays. They might have it against you."

"And you're willing to believe that someone might be using magic or that people who've played our games gain supernatural powers?"

"Well, what about you, Mr. Kaiba? Weren't you at one point involved with people who were involved with cases of monsters coming to life? I recall this all happening years ago when you were often seen with an individual named Muto Yugi. Every time you've been involved with him, I heard of cases of supernatural games being played and tournament players seemingly losing consciousness. There were concerns about your games causing health hazards then, too. Isn't that a violation of your company's policy?"

"As I said, we at KaibaCorp take full responsibility for any physical and psychological damage caused. Yes, I do remember those unconscious players and you're right I was with Muto Yugi at the time. And yes, I fully admit to witnessing extraordinary events when I was involved with and playing against Yugi, but you wouldn't know the full details if you weren't there in person to see them happen. Mr. Bearer."

Wearing a calm composure, Cain nodded. "Yes, fair point. I wasn't there to see it happen but I recall witnessing extraordinary events play out on television when Battle City commenced. How could I forget about a giant red dragon and a blue golem on my television? I was often told that those were well done holographic effects."

"Yes, our monsters come to life through our Solid Vision system."

"At least most of them do, but there have been cases of these monsters coming to life.," Cain then turned his attention toward the other defendant. "Mr. Crawford, can you admit to taking responsibility for allowing KaibaCorp to utilize technology to bring your monsters to life?"

"I do, Mr. Cain."

"Then, everything I've told Mr. Kaiba applies to you as well."

"Yes, except the part about my game giving special powers to people."

"However, I've been told you once used powers of suggestion on players. Perhaps utilizing supernatural magic to predict a player's moves before they apply them. At the time that would've been viewed as a miracle but people have since become keener toward supernatural abilities with the rise of these super-powered individuals. You'd be seen as one of the first of these types of specialized individuals."

"Whatever you believe, but I can assure you I don't have such powers. I can't even tell what you're going to have for breakfast tomorrow morning," Pegasus chortled.

"How coy of you. Then, do you admit to these accusations?"

"And what if I said 'yes'? You have no proof I can even use these magic tricks you claim I used."

"True enough but that magic had to have come from somewhere to make those monsters come to life and grant people special powers. The public has already seen monsters come to life before. It's no shock anymore. Duel Monsters have already been seen and have caused harm to civilians. Technology can't create that. Only outside forces can."

Pegasus shook his head. "But, you can't accuse me of all that. I haven't touched a Duel Monsters game in years. And whatever magic you might think I could use doesn't exist. But, I will agree some sick-minded individuals are utilizing supernatural powers to bring these monsters to life and possibly turning people into monsters and giving others supernatural powers."

Cain frowned. "That could be true as well. However, not all of these monsters have been summoned through supernatural means. Mr. Kaiba, I do believe you were responsible for a project that involved Duel Monsters invading our reality?" As he accused Seto, the KaibaCorp CEO's face contorted with irritation. "Judging by that look, you know what I'm referring to?"

"That was a malfunction on our part. We intended to merge two virtual worlds to create a crossover between Duel Monsters and Digimon since both are based on popular card games. I had full endorsement from those experienced with handling Digimon."

"Yes, I'm well aware of Yamaki Mitsuo and the Monster Maker team. That incident occurred three years ago under your watch."

"And beyond my control by my own admission. We made a miscalculated risk, bringing Duel Monsters and Digimon into our world. However, as you might recall, those monsters were returned to their world, and damages to our city were repaired by a miraculous force. So, there are no bills to cover those damages. But, what about our planet still being connected with this Digital Realm? Doesn't that increase chances of another incursion that could lead to future altercations between humans and these digitized organisms? Not all of these Duel Monsters and Digimon will be well-intentioned."

"If such a crisis occurs, then we'll take action."

Cain asserted. "Would you sever the connection between the two realities?"

"Should the need arise then yes."

"Fair enough. That brings me back to the heroes who've averted cruises on our behalf. That just further justifies my accusation about these super-powered individuals. You have them cleaning your messes, Mr. Kaiba."

"As if I need divine intervention to maintain my company's success."

"You've had that luck for a long time. You've just been fortunate that heroes like the Sailor Guardians have been around to remove the dangers that have plagued our world."

Seto scoffed. "They only did what was right. They're not on my payroll, Mr. Bearer."

"I never accused you of hiring their services. Although, their arrival couldn't come with worse timing with the rise of the superpowered beings and these monsters. Though, I suppose they're a necessary evil."

"Mr. Bearer, you sound like you have an issue with heroes like the Sailor Guardians."

The courtroom judge intervened. "We're digressing, gentlemen. Stay on the subject matter concerning this case."

Cain cleared his throat. "Well, Kaiba Seto? Do you also take responsibility for the damages and costs of these duelists' medical bills? You have all the money in the world to cover these costs."

Seto scowled. "This is absurd."

"No more absurd than you not taking responsibility. Your late father, Gozaburo, would be disappointed. I wouldn't be surprised if his associates have all mysteriously vanished because of your actions."

"And the more I listen to you, you're reminding me of him," Seto rebuked the accusations made against him and his company. "Answer me this. Why haven't these duelists stepped up to file lawsuits against me? All I'm getting is hearsay and from you of all people, Cain. Have you been talking to these people?"

Cain stayed silent on the matter.

"Or these supposed individuals with supernatural powers? Where are they hiding?"

"What about the incidents that have occurred in your Duel Academia schools? There have been accounts of extraordinary events involving dark magic and monster sightings? Even if these can't be proven, those are childrens' lives being endangered."

"Funny that you mention that because I haven't had a student or their parents filing lawsuits against my company."

"Perhaps because you're trying to save face and keep these lawsuits buried for your own benefits? Do you even care that outside forces are trying to destroy our society? Human society is on the brink of collapse with these super-powered individuals running amok! I advise you to choose your allies and enemies carefully, Kaiba Seto and Pegasus J. Crawford!" Cain addressed, as his words silenced Kaiba and Pegasus. "If we can't control these individuals imposing their powers on us, then we as humans lose our world. We might as well give it to these superpowered beings and creatures. If they overstep their boundaries, we must take action."

"We wish you luck then on your endeavors, Mr. Bearer. But, you have an uphill battle ahead for you, my friend. Just keep me out of it," Kaiba blatantly told him.

"And the same goes for me, too," Pegasus remarked.

Taking his seat, Cain calmly muttered. "That's fine. What I have planned, I won't need your support, gentleman."

---

Odaiba, Tokyo/Yagami-Mochizuki Residence/August 1, 2019/10:15 AM (JST)

(Cue Digimon Survive - Main Theme)

It had been 20 years since that fateful summer in 1999.

Yagami Taichi remembered the importance of today's special occasion: Odaiba Memorial Day. He and his friends have made this day an annual thing for the past 20 years. Having gotten dressed, Taichi looked at his reflection while adjusting the buttons of his blue jean vest. He checked over his beige shorts, goggles hanging around his neck, and a marriage ring on his ring finger.

"Another year, another reunion, huh?" Taichi smiled, taking off the goggles and glancing over them. "I can't believe it's been 20 years. How time flies by." After placing the goggles in his pocket, his smartphone vibrated, prompting him to check for messages.

Upon scanning his newest message:

"Are you on your way, Taichi?" - Koushiro

Taichi texted back.

"I'm coming. Sorry, I slept in."

After sending his message, Taichi headed out the door where Agumon waited for him.

"Ready to go, Taichi?"

"Yeah. Hard to believe it's been 20 years, buddy."

Agumon nodded. "And you've grown up a lot, Taichi."

"Heh, every time someone says that I become a dollar richer."

"But, I mean it, Taichi."

"I know, Agumon," Taichi said as he crouched over to Agumon's level and patted his head. "It's gonna be a big outing today because Daisuke and his friends will be with us."

"I can't wait to see V-Mon and the others again. It's been such a long time! By the way, can I bring this?"

"Bring what?" Taichi asked as Agumon pulled out a porno magazine. Taichi's eyes shot out at the sight of one of his old magazines.

"I remembered holding onto this for you. I think you called it your stash?"

"AGUMON!" Taichi roared, ripping the porno magazine from Agumon's claws. "Why would you keep this?!"

"Keep what, Taichi?" A voice belonging to a woman caused Taichi to freeze in his spot. When he turned, he saw an attractive young woman with glasses, long black hair, a sky blue blouse, and a white skirt.

"M-M-Meiko, I can explain…"

"Explain what?" Meiko blinked until she noticed the magazine in Taichi's hand.

Expecting her to lash out at him, Taichi was taken aback when Meiko calmly seized the magazine and flipped through it. He noticed Meiko's cheeks blush as she scanned through the pages.

"Meiko, it's not what you think. That's an old magazine I thought I got rid of…"

Closing the magazine, Meiko handed it back to Taichi. As he took the porno magazine, he noticed Meiko's wedding ring on her left ring finger, reminding himself that he is a married man now.

"So, what? Do you like that stuff? I don't mind."

"You don't?"

Meiko nodded. "You know I don't have any judgment over your tastes, Taichi, and quite frankly I… I like… I like porn, too."

Upon hearing this, Taichi chuckled nervously. "You don't say?"

"Mmhmm, I even had porn with guys and girls. I don't just find it sexual but artistic," Meiko said.

"You consider it art?"

"Yes, of course, there were some very beautiful and hot women in that magazine."

"Uh, I never pegged you as someone who liked that stuff."

Meiko snorted. "And what's wrong with that? Don't be such a prude, Taichi."

"I wasn't."

"Remember, we gotta be honest with each other Taichi since we're married. And yes that means telling each other our darkest secrets," Meiko offered a hand to Taichi. "Come on, didn't Koushiro text you? We should get going."

"Yeah, he did," he took his wife's hand as they kissed. "Sorry I'll be more forward with you."

"That's all I ask, Taichi. Agumon, are you ready to go?" Meiko asked the Digimon.

"Yep! Let's go!"

As Taichi and Meiko held hands, Agumon accompanied the wedded couple.

"Where to? Koushiro's place?" Meiko queried.

"No, we're heading to the Odaiba Memorial site."

---

Odaiba Memorial/11:05 AM (JST)

(Cue Kamen Rider Kuuga OST [CD2] 7. Peace)

Knowing the importance of today's memorial event, the original and successor Odaiba Digidestined convened with their Digimon partners. Gathered in front of a memorial statue were Ishida Yamato & Gabumon, Takenouchi Sora & Piyomon, Izumi Koushiro & Tentomon, Tachikawa Mimi & Palmon, Kido Jo & Gomamon, Takashi Takeru & Patamon, Yagami Hikari & Tailmon, Motomiya Daisuke & V-Mon, Inoue Miyako & Hawkmon, Ichijouji Ken & Wormmon, and Hida Iori & Armadimon.

Outside Taichi and Meiko's marriage, the other Digidestined members have gotten married during the past few years. Yamato and Sora married after a long time relationship with Taichi's blessings. Despite their contrasting personalities, Koushiro and Mimi had gotten married. Takeru & Hikari and Ken & Miyako got married as well. Jo had gotten married to the girlfriend who he often referred to and after some time he introduced her to his friends. Both Daisuke and Iori found wives outside their Digidestined circle.

"They're late," Yamato scoffed, meticulously checking the time on his smartphone.

"Relax, they'll be here," Sora reassured her husband.

"Yeah, Taichi, especially, wouldn't miss this for the world," Koushiro reminded them.

"Though of all days to be late for," Takeru said.

"Well, remember my brother is married now. He has other responsibilities besides himself and Agumon," Hikari said.

"He'll be here. Wait until he sees the surprise that's coming," Daisuke grinned.

"Hey! Sorry, we're late!" Taichi called out from afar. The group turned to see Taichi, Meiko, and Agumon heading over to meet with them.

"See? What did I tell you guys?" Daisuke said, excitedly flailing his arms around to get Taichi, Meiko, and Agumon's attention.

"No, apologies on my behalf. I was holding Taichi back," Meiko said.

"It's fine. We're all here," Yamato smirked as he and Taichi confronted each other. They gave each other firm and manly handshakes. "You're usually not this late."

"Hah, you're not mad, are ya?"

"Why would I? Today's a special day for us."

"So, where to go first?" Mimi asked them.

Miyako whispered to Daisuke. "Hey, isn't he and his two friends supposed to be here?"

"Change of plans, they wanna meet outside the Fuji TV Station."

Ken shrugged. "Well, I suppose that can't be helped."

"Wait, you mean Wall-!" Before V-Mon gave away their surprise, Hawkmon, Armadimon, and Wormmon clamped his mouth shut. "Mmmph!"

"Quiet, V-Mon! You don't wanna spoil it!"

"Spoil what, Takeru?" Taichi asked, overhearing their conversation.

"Nothing at all, Taichi. We were just discussing memorial sites to sight-see," Hikari excused her friends.

Patamon nodded. "We were talking about visiting the spots where we took Pumpmon and Gottsumon a long time ago."

Takeru added. "Yeah, that's exactly where we meant."

With a sad look, Tailmon nodded. "Yeah, and visiting Wizarmon's gravesite."

"I wonder if we'll see his spirit?" Hikari said, patting Tailmon's shoulders.

"This is all of us, Yamato," Gabumon confirmed.

"Ok, everyone let's get going," Yamato said. "Should we split into groups like always?"

"Hold on. Might I suggest we split up and later meet up outside Fuji TV Station?" Daisuke raised this suggestion.

"Whatever for?" Koushiro asked as Miyako sent a text to him.

"Change in plans. 'He' and his girls want to meet outside the tv station." - Miyako

"I see," Koushiro nodded.

"What is it, dear?" Mimi asked her husband as he showed the message to her. "Oh, I see."

"What's going on guys?" Taichi curiously asked everyone.

"You'll know later, Taichi," Sora reassured him.

"You're gonna like what you see," Daisuke said.

"Hey, what's the deal, guys?" Agumon asked the other Digimon, who kept their mouths shut.

Meiko glanced over to Taichi. "What could they be hiding?"

With a quizzical look, Taichi replied. "I have no earthly clue but they got my curiosity. I hope this surprise is worth it."

(Cue Digimon World Re:Digitize - Credits)

As he received their message from afar, he checked their group chat.

"He doesn't know yet. We're still in the clear." - Ken

"We'll keep him and his wife busy exploring memorial sites. We'll let you know to head over to Fuji TV Station." - Miyako

"Hang in there, dudes! They're gonna be surprised to see you!" - Daisuke

"While we're keeping Taichi busy, go on ahead and enjoy the sights." - Takeru

"We'll see you there!" Hikari

"Yes, take care." - Iori

After reading Daisuke and his friends' group chat messages, he smiled.

"Ah, good. Thanks, guys. Sorry about this," he muttered as two long and floppy-eared critters leaned over his shoulders. "This is going to be an exciting reunion, guys." He then glanced over toward two young women behind him. "Shall we do some sightseeing before we head on over?"

The two women nodded accordingly and accompanied him.

---

Odaiba, Tokyo/Fuji TV Station/12:45 PM (JST)

After exploring a few areas within Odaiba, the Digidestined reconvened near the tv station where they once battled Vamdemon and his forces. As they remembered the events of the Odaiba Fog Incident, Tailmon reminisced the sad memories of Wizarmon's sacrifice, allowing Hikari's Crest of Light to invoke and turn her into Angewomon.

Bowing her head, Tailmon prayed for her late friend. Beside her, Hikari held a bouquet of white lilies. After placing them down, Hikari joined in and prayed.

"Wizarmon, may you keep looking out for me," Tailmon muttered as tears escaped her eyes.

"Thank you for everything, Wizarmon. Thanks to you, Tailmon and I are still friends," Hikari said. "Rest easy."

"Can you believe it's been 20 years since our first adventures?" Jou reminded the original Digidestined, who nodded solemnly.

"All these years have gone by and all that happened 20 years ago is still fresh on my mind," Takeru added.

"The joy and sadness still carry on with us," Sora said.

"Hey, let's not feel down, guys. All of our Digimon friends who gave their lives for us would want us to celebrate for them. Let's not forget the good times we've had that summer," Taichi reassured them, eyeing the Fuji TV Station.

"It's only a few years until our 20th when we first became Digidestined ourselves," Iori said, reminding Daisuke and Miyako.

"That's right. It's coming up. Though Ken here had his Digivice longer than we have," Miyako replied.

"I wasn't exactly the kindest person when I got mine," Ken said, reflecting on his time using the Digivice meant for his late brother.

"That's all in the past, Ken. It's not our 20th anniversary but we're here celebrating just because we're one of the original Chosen," Daisuke said, patting his friend's back shoulders. Just then, as his phone vibrated, he checked his new messages and grinned. "They're here, guys."

(Cue Digimon Adventure 02 - Stand By Me Hito Natsu no Bouken)

"Hello? Is anyone there? Daisuke? Miyako? Iori?" A young man called out to the aforementioned. When the group turned, they saw a Caucasian male with short, neck-length blonde hair, a light tan complexion, and bright blue eyes. He came dressed in a bright yellow short-sleeved jacket with a black t-shirt underneath, knee-length dark gray shorts, and light blue & white tennis shoes.

"Wallace! Good to have you here again, man!" Daisuke called out, running over to greet the American Digidestined.

"I hope my eyes aren't going bad because I see two!" V-Mon yelled out, sighting two Digimon sitting on Wallace's shoulders.

"You ain't going blind, my friend!" A long, floppy-eared cream-furred creature with green markings waved. He and a similar-looking creature with dark chocolate fur and pink markings hopped off Wallace's shoulders.

"Terriermon, Lopmon! How have you two been?" Hawkmon asked the two Digimon.

"It hasn't been too long!" Armadimon added excitedly.

"You're all looking nice and healthy!" Terriermon chimed in as he and Lopmon chatted with the Digimon.

"I'm glad you two are doing well!" Patamon said as he and Tailmon interacted with Terriermon and Lopmon.

"How have you two been?" Wormmon asked Wallace's Digimon.

"Just great. Lopmon is in a much better place now than he used to be," Terriermon said.

"So, there've been no more signs of that virus coming back?" Tailmon queried.

"Nah, not anymore. I'm just fine now," Lopmon reassured them.

"Daisuke, it's good to see you again," Wallace approached, giving him a handshake and a hug.

"Same here, man. It's been what? Two years, I think?"

"Miyako, Iori. Good to meet you again, my friends," Wallace acknowledged the other two Digidestined.

"And you're looking… busy from what I can tell," Miyako noticed two women behind Wallace.

"Wallace, it has been a long time, hasn't it?" Ken asked as he confronted the American Digidestined.

"It has. How have you and Miyako been?" Wallace queried.

"We've been doing fine."

"We recently went on a European trip! We had a blast, didn't we, dear?" Miyako asked, holding Ken's arm.

"That we did. We learned a lot about various European cultures. Most stuff I already knew about, but it's intriguing to learn new things you hadn't realized before," the Bearer of Knowledge replied.

"That sounds like you two had a lot of fun together. I hope my two girlfriends and I could do the same," Wallace said.

"Wait, girlfriends?" Daisuke blinked in confusion.

"Hold up. Wallace was the big surprise? Even though you visited us not too long ago?" Taichi asked the others.

"Yeah, we thought you'd be surprised to see Wallace again. He wanted it to be a surprise," Takeru said.

"Takeru! Hikari! It's good to see you again, too!" Wallace called out and approached them. "And you're looking as cute as ever, Hikari."

"Thank you," Hikari modestly took in Wallace's compliment.

"I have to say. You guys pulled off a welcoming surprise. Good job," Taichi smiled. "It's nice to have you here again, Wallace."

"Thank you, Taichi. It's an honor meeting you and your friends again. It's hard to believe it's been 20 years since you became Chosen and when Digimon entered our lives."

"They seriously changed our lives for the better," Sora said.

"Indeed, but humans and Digimon are still learning a lot from each other. Time will tell how long until Digimon and humanity gain peace," Koushiro said.

"Speaking of which, I heard from Daisuke, Takeru, and the others that you're aiming to be a diplomat, Taichi?" Wallace asked him.

"That's the plan. I want to try and get stubborn people like that Cain Bearer guy to understand and not paint all Digimon in a negative light," the Bearer of Courage acknowledged the challenges that lie ahead for him as a future diplomat.

"Oooh, yeah. That guy will be hard-pressed to convince. Don't get too stressed if he doesn't agree with your viewpoints," Wallace stated.

"I've been encouraging Taichi not to give up. He mustn't let people like that discourage him from achieving his dreams," Meiko chimed in.

"I agree. Mochizuki Meiko, how could I forget you?" Wallace asked the woman with glasses.

"I'm Taichi's wife now.."

"Oh, right! Congratulations to you two! But, I won't forget you had a cat Digimon."

"Yeah, her name was Meicoomon. She's sadly not with us now."

"I see. Sorry to hear that," Wallace said.

"Meiko and I married not long after your last visit. Speaking of ladies, how are Nadeshiko and Hitsuki over here?" Taichi asked.

As Wallace approached the two ladies, he introduced them to the Digidestined. The two women have dark brown hair but that's where the similarities end.

Standing on Wallace's right, the dark brown-haired woman has long, straight shoulder-length hair, dark brown eyes, and a fair complexion. She is seen garbed in a long-sleeved gray dress shirt, which has been unbuttoned to show off a black and white buttoned shirt under it. She is also wearing a black and red pleated knee-length skirt and brown dress shoes. Her face is thin, giving her a runway model look.

"Nadeshiko says and does whatever she sets into her mind without hesitation."

"Good day, everyone. It's a pleasure to meet you all, Digidestined," Nadeshiko opened up and bowed.

"Hello again, Nadeshiko," Taichi replied.

"Man, aren't they so cute?" Daisuke became infatuated with Nadeshiko and Hitsuki.

"Heh, be glad your wife isn't here to hear you say that," Miyako openly teased him.

With that, Daisuke covered his mouth. "Hey, Ken, you didn't hear me say that, ok?"

Ken shrugged. "Don't drag me into this."

"Shouldn't you be mad Wallace slipped Miyako a kiss the last time we met him?"

Ken withheld his anger. "I promised myself to let it slide because he's our friend, but he better not pull that stunt again."

"If you need a reminder, Hitsuki is the more reserved one of the two but her culinary skills are exceptional," Wallace reintroduced the Digidestined to a slightly shorter woman with a shorter neck-length hairstyle, dark gray eyes, and a light complexion. She is seen garbed in a light rose blouse, a light blue and white shin-length summer dress, and brown dress shoes coupled with white socks. Her face has soft and modest features, making her cuter and less mature in her looks than Nadeshiko.

"Um, hello. Nice to meet you all again," Hitsuki modestly bowed, her voice sounding quieter than Nadeshiko's outspoken tone.

"It's good to see you two again," Taichi replied.

"Hey, man. How did you manage to get these two without any conflict? I gotta know!" Daisuke pleaded to understand Wallace's power.

Wallace answered while pointing to his head. "It all starts here, my friend. I already had the charm when I almost put the moves on Hikari and Miyako. All I did was apply these smooth techniques toward numerous cute and beautiful young ladies. Granted, some ended with failures, but in the end, I ended up with these two. I met them when I came to visit Japan a few years ago. Three of us hit it pretty well."

"Now, you're a threesome couple," Miyako scoffed.

"There's another term they call these types of couples, Miyako. They're called polygamous couples," Ken answered for his wife.

"Well, well, Jou. Looks like some people can handle more than one life partner. Why couldn't you be smooth like Wallace?" Gomamon chuckled, teasing his partner.

"Because not all of us are that skilled. I barely hooked up with one girl in my life," Jou sighed.

"Well, Mimi is perfectly fine with just one guy," Palmon said.

"So, are you two ok being together with Wallace? There haven't been any conflicts because of this?" Mimi asked them.

"Oh no, we get along quite well. If anything, we each have roles in our household. I handle the hardware and house repairs while Hitsuki does the cleaning and cooking. Meanwhile, Wallace goes to work and handles our finances," answered Nadeshiko.

"I do my best to cook the best meals for Wallace and Nadeshiko," modestly added Hitsuki.

"And both of us give compliments and encouragement to Wallace's girlfriends!" Terriermon added as he hopped on Nadeshiko's shoulder. "Ain't that right?"

"Terriermon is such a delight, isn't he?" Nadeshiko's smile widened as she patted Terriermon.

"And I'm Hitsuki's taste tester to see if the meals are edible for us," Lopmon said, rubbing his head against Hitsuki's cheek.

"And thanks to you, I haven't made a bad meal yet," Hitsuki said.

"You three sound almost inseparable. I'm impressed you can handle a three-way relationship," Taichi commented.

"It's not difficult. We've been able to manage somehow," Wallace said. "Oh, and I neglected to mention this but we're all set to be married soon."

"When's the wedding?" Daisuke asked.

"You'll know in time. So, the three of us have looked around familiar areas, including childhood venues Nadeshiko and Hitsuki wanted to see. Care to show us around Odaiba?" Wallace kindly asked the Digidestined.

"We have all the time since today is all about us," Takeru said.

"We're also going to visit the camp where the seven of us went before our lives changed forever," the Bearer of Courage said. "We'd be happy to show you three if you want to come?"

"We'd be happy to. We want to know more about your adventures," Nadeshiko replied.

"Wallace has told us all about Daisuke's group. We want to learn about the original Digidestined's stories," Hitsuki said.

"You three wouldn't be the first polygamous couple we know. There's another that lives here, too" Yamato addressed Wallace, Nadeshiko, and Hitsuki.

"If we ever run into Ryō, Alice, and Dorothel, you three will have insightful conversations with them," Taichi said.

"So, where to now?" Agumon asked his partner.

"Let's take them inside the tv station and then head over to the Giant Ferris Wheel in Palette Town. There'll be some area to cover there," Taichi suggested.

Wallace nodded. "Well, go on and lead the way, Taichi."

(Cue Thomas Bergersen - Heart)

With that, the Digidestined escorted Wallace, Nadeshiko, and Hitsuki inside the Fuji TV Station. They showed them where Yamato's father used to work and then took them to the spot where Wizarmon died and Angewomon struck down Vamdemon, leading to the vampire's quick revival into VenomVamdemon. Then, they discussed WarGreymon and MetalGarurumon's ascension after Taichi and Yamato's Crests reached their full potential, leading directly into a battle against VenomVamdemon.

After leaving Fuji TV Station, the group headed for the Palette Town side of Odaiba. The original Digidestined informed Wallace, Nadeshiko, Hitsuki, Terriermon, and Lopmon about Odaiba being significant for being the first Japanese prefecture to have documented Digimon sightings.

When they visited Hikarigaoka, also known as Highton View Terrace, Wallace, his girlfriends, and his Digimon learned that this was the first known Digimon attack in the real world. Taichi and his friends then went on to explain another significance about this location.

"In 1995, this area was not only the venue of the first Digimon sightings in the world but it's where we saw our first Digimon," Koushiro said.

"That same day Hikari and I met a different Agumon, who hatched from a Digiegg, and evolved into Greymon," Taichi explained, reminiscing his childhood memories and first exposure to any Digimon.

"And to be clear, that wasn't me. I don't know who that other Agumon was," Agumon clarified.

"Yeah, we know it wasn't you. That other one was abnormally bigger than you," Hikari chuckled.

"And this is where we saw Greymon fight Parrotmon," Taichi showed them the exact location near the bridge.

"I'll never forget that night. It'll always stay in my memories," Jou said.

"As a kid watching then, it was scary," Mimi added.

"Local authorities and government officials tried covering it up as a terrorist attack but us eight knew better. We know what really happened. It wasn't until years later that governing officials started to accept Digimon's existence," the Bearer of Knowledged elaborated.

"It's intriguing to know this venue was the spot of the first Digimon incursion in our reality. You eight witnessed the genesis of what would lead to grander Digimon incursions," Wallace stated.

"Greymon and Parrotmon, I remember it all as if it were yesterday," Yamato said.

"I was too young to remember all the details but I thought I was watching a giant monster movie in front of me," Takeru said.

"What are the chances the eight of you living in that same area watched a Digimon fight and later become Digidestined," Nadeshiko realized.

"It's like fate chose you eight purely for being witnesses of that event," Hitsuki said.

"Yeah, that's why Gennai and the powers that be decided we'd be the Digidestined," Sora added.

"That night we became destined to become Chosen ones and safeguard the two worlds, but as kids, we couldn't do it alone. That's why we were paired with Digimon partners," Koushiro explained.

"And now the rest is history. Then, for a time we lost access to our partners to allow ourselves to grow up. After that, it wasn't long until we got our Digimon partners back," Taichi said, smiling down at Agumon.

"We were back together as if nothing happened. I'm glad for that, Taichi," Agumon nodded.

The Digidestined continued exploring the Hikarigaoka area. Along the way, Wallace, Terriermon, Lopmon, Nadeshiko, and Hitsuki learned about the origins of the eight Chosen. Having learned about his predecessors, Wallace became intrigued and learned about the significance this event would later have for international Digidestined like him.

After exploring Hikarigaoka, the group grabbed a bus that took them straight for the summer camp. They arrived at the same spot where a digital portal opened up and pulled Taichi's group. Sans Hikari who was sick at the time, the original seven explained their first adventures on File Island and about their first enemy Devimon.

"Wow, this is a lot like learning about a superhero origin story," Hitsuki said.

"I know, right?" Nadeshiko nodded.

"I can't believe this is the camp where it all started," Wallace looked around the campsite.

"Well, it seems they've done some remodeling on this camp but this is the place," Koushiro said.

"That was a long time ago! Yeah, I remember being here when we came back with you," Tentomon flew around, scouring the campground.

Piyomon landed on a tree branch. "It's so nice and peaceful here."

"Well because there isn't anyone here yet," Sora said.

"We should get going soon since there's a summer camp bus heading this way," Koushiro said.

"It's that time of year, huh?" Yamato chuckled. "Just think, our kids might be coming here."

"Kids. Wow, I never thought about that," Mimi said.

"It's up to you if you want to have kids. We still have our young lives ahead for us," Taichi said.

"Hey, since you five are here, why don't we catch up and hang out? You can meet my wife," Daisuke proposed to Wallace and his friends.

"What do you two think?" Wallace asked Nadeshiko and Hatsuki.

"We're down for it. We'd like to meet your wife, Daisuke," Nadeshiko accepted.

"We'd be happy to see her!" Hitsuki replied.

"Yay, that means we can hang out a lot more!" V-Mon said, high-fiving Terriermon and Lopmon.

Chuckling, Taichi faced the sky and raised a hand. "Trust me, Wallace, we have a lot of time to catch up. After all, you're a Chosen just like us."

"Thanks, I'm glad to hear about this," Wallace acknowledged as the group took another bus back to Odaiba.

On the route toward home, Taichi saw the camp bus pass by them. A beguiled smile adorned the young man's face as memories of 20 years ago played out.

"Taichi?" Agumon asked his partner, who snapped out of his deep thoughts.

"Hey, I'm ok."

"Thinking about the old days?" Meiko asked, holding Taichi's hand.

"I am. I'll always keep them but I'm also going to look forward to our future and hope my diplomatic skills pay off. I'm going to need them if I'm going to convince people like Cain Bearer."

"We all believe in you, buddy," Agumon reassured him, leaning his head against Taichi's side.

"Thanks, Agumon."

(End theme)

---

Odaiba, Tokyo/Odaiba Marine Park/August 17, 2021/4:45 PM (JST)

(Cue Persona 5 OST - Fun Happiness)

At some point during the summer period, some of the heroes gathered at the popular bay site. Of the heroes that came: most of the Sailor Guardians (Usagi, Mamoru, Minako, Rei, Ami, Makoto, Setsuna, and Lupe), all of the Kuiper Belt Guardians, a few of the Duelists (Judai, Asuka, Yugi, Anzu, Jounouchi, Mai, Manjoume, Rei, Sho, and Momoe), a few of the Digidestined & their colleagues (Taichi, Yamato, Meiko, Sora, Koushiro, Mimi, Takeru, Hikari, Wallace, Hitsuki, and Nadeshiko), most of the Tamers (Takato, Ruki, Jianliang, Hirokazu, Kenta, Juri, Shaochung, Kotori, and Himura), a handful of the Legendary Warriors (Kōji, Kōichi, Tomoki, and Junpei), all of the Spirit Detectives, and a few others (the Sailor Starlights, the Time Thieves, Kai, Reina, David, Natalie, Alec, the Dragonmaids, Philippe, Sasha, and Amazoness Princess).

During their relaxation, the couples spent time enjoying the beautiful beach view and explored Odaiba Marine Park. They came in their summer and swimwear. Though, some of the men and women opted to come out in their swimwear. Several couples formed their relationships recently. Among these new couples: Minamoto Kōji introduced his new girlfriend Uehara Minami, who Takato, Ruki, Jianliang, and Kai recognized. They and their Digimon remembered Minami and her former partner Siesamon. As they reflected on their past encounters and previous conflict against Mephismon, Minami revealed that she and Kōji met at a conference. Minami became a Digimon researcher and is planning to create a new V-Pet. She asked Kōji, who has prior knowledge of Digimon, to help her develop her project. It was through their work where their bond formed.

Another couple was Kitagawa Kenta and Jami Waziri/Sailor Ixion. They met by chance as they both attended the same university. Both had similar interests in the medical field. As a result, they became study partners. Over a few months, they discovered intimate feelings for one another. Initially, Kenta was timid to ask her out, but Jami helped overcome his anxiety and promised to take their relationship slowly. By now, Kenta had conquered his fears and he was seen kissing Jami.

As both have grown up, Shaochung and Tomoki formed a relationship over the past year. Jianliang and his sister Jaarin weren't sure about their youngest sister going out with a boy. When Tomoki was shown to be trustworthy, the Lee siblings' worries diminished.

Dragonmaid Parla revealed that she is currently in a relationship with Walter the Vampire Grimson. It was becoming clear love wasn't being made exclusive within the human network. Renamon and Kai's association proved this. With assistance from Amazoness Princess, Philippe's relationship with Sasha strengthened.

When some of the group headed out to play beach volleyball, a spacecraft crash-landed into the bay. Alarmed by the sudden arrival of this mysterious spaceship, most of the heroes headed over to investigate. The Sailor Guardians, the Kuiper Belt Guardians, the Digiteams, the Duelists, and the Spirit Detectives cautiously approached the ship. When the ship's door opened, two figures emerged.

(Cue Code Geass OST - Strange Girl)

One was revealed as a tall Rajita officer that resembles a giant girdled lizard. He is seen wearing an armored black and green armored uniform and a face shield with a breathing apparatus.

The other is a shorter green-skinned female humanoid with light purple shoulder-length hair and wearing a full-bodied black and green outfit. Her eyes and demeanor, unlike other Rajita, were notably docile and innocent. She is seen sitting on the giant lizard man's left shoulder.

As the Sailor Guardians and the others cautiously faced them, the large Rajita officer pointed his laser cannon at them.

"Stand down, Ronx. We're not here for conflict," the Rajita woman beckoned him.

"As you say, Miss Lien," Ronx obediently complied with her demands.

"Please excuse my guardian's caution. We've been dealing with hostiles. Sailor Guardians, I take it?" Lien addressed them and their allies.

"You're with the Rajita Empire, aren't you?" Usagi asked them.

"Yes, but we're not an empire anymore. Once you removed our tyrannical leader Ghidorah, the balance shifted into individuals like myself," Lien said.

"Our actions caused the fall of an empire?" Minako was taken aback.

"I never imagined us defeating their leader would've caused this much of a ripple effect in the universe," Ami said.

"That's less alien invasions for us to worry about," Rei added.

"You got that right. Besides the Amazoness Quartet, none of our other enemies ever reformed like this," Makoto said.

"It was for the better. People like us were suppressed by the dictators and their cronies. They've been removed now. I am here to make peace with your Sailor Guardians and your allies," Lien stated. "Allow me to introduce myself. I am Lady Lien, an ambassador of the Rajita Republic."

"And I am her loyal guardian and leader of the Rajita Republic Ronx."

Usagi smiled and shook Lien's hand. "We're happy to make peace with those who want it."

"Yes, we are glad we can make this happen," Setsuna concurred.

With that, Lien explained that the remnants of the benevolent Rajita populations sought to rebuild their collapsing civilization and form a republic, ending thousands of years of tyrannical rule. With Ghidorah and his ilk gone, the malevolent Rajita were imprisoned for their war crimes against other interstellar civilizations, including the Moon Kingdom. Ronx and Lien were named the leader and ambassador of the Rajita Republic. The Rajita armies were reformed into a peacekeeping force.

Lien also revealed she is Nāginī's younger sister and apologized on her malevolent sibling's behalf.

After a long discussion, Ronx and Lien made peace with the Sailor Guardians and their allies, vowing to give aid should they require it. Moreover, Lien vowed she would observe Earth more closely as she felt an ominous vibe encroaching on their planet.

(End theme)

---

Duel Academia/October 2019

In the interim between the summer and fall seasons, the Paradius duo initiated several experiments for preparations to enhance a Defiant army to fight on their and Cain's behalf. Upon exploring other options, the duo discovered remnants of the Light of Destruction, which several years ago made contact with and possessed Saio Takuma. Ever since the Light of Destruction took over a bulk of Duel Academia's students and formed the Society of Light. Thanks to the efforts of Judai and his friends, they managed to thwart Saio and the Society of Light's ambitions of bringing untold calamity to the world.

It had been long thought that the Light of Destruction's presence ceased to exist on Earth. However, it wasn't until the Paradius duo found remnants outside Earth. After collecting bits of the Light, they recreated the Light of Destruction. Then, they decided to infect as many of the heroes, turning them over to their side. However, to properly utilize this revived power, they started small and sought anyone possessed by entities before.

(Cue Yu-Gi-Oh! GX OST - Dark Johan's Theme)

Johan Andersen was their first target. After infecting them with the revived Light, Johan became the new leader of the Society of Light.

Sensing the revival of the Light, Yubel warned Judai that Johan was in danger. Taking Yubel's warning to heart, Judai quickly gathered his friends to locate the source and save Johan. As Judai recruited his friends, the Kuiper Belt Guardians, Dimitri, and Kensuke volunteered to help them.

As they arrived at Duel Academia, the group went into hiding. While scouring the island, they saw a cult of students in white clothing - be it school uniforms, civilian clothing, etc. Everyone wore white clothing, which brought unnerving memories for Judai and his friends. As they continued to explore the campus grounds, they saw students dancing and bowing to a formless veil of white light. Unfortunately, the group was caught and brought to face the cult. The cult invoked the Light of Destruction's power to try and convert Judai's group and the Kuipers. Much to Judai and Yubel's dismay, Johan was officially revealed as the Society of Light leader. Furious, Judai called on Yubel's power to resist the light. The Kuipers and Judai's friends tried fighting back but the Light of Destruction's power greatly overwhelmed them.

In the end, all but Judai, Asuka, Manjoume, Tyranno, Momoe, Junko, Sailor Sedna, and Kensuke were converted into Light members. The converted heroes' minds were wiped, turning them into unwilling pawns for Johan and his Society of Light. No duels were needed to convert people. The converted heroes sported white ritual clothing. In the Kuiper Guardians' case, when they transformed, their Sailor garb gained the white and light blue colors seen on the Society of Light school female uniforms. Under the Light of Destruction's influence, the Kuiper Guardians' innate powers in their civilian forms were enhanced enough that transforming wasn't wholly necessary. Dimitri's Perseus powers gained a boost as well.

Sailor Sedna and Prince Sedna/Kensuke hesitantly fought Dimitri and the other Kuiper Guardians. Asuka, Manjoume, Tyranno, Momoe, and Junko were forced to fight Sho and the others. While these dramatic battles occurred, Judai and Yubel used their combined power to neutralize the Light. In the end, they purged the Light remnant and freed everyone from its control. When Johan was freed, he had no recollection of anything before being brainwashed. The entire conflict lasted a few days, but the final conflict was resolved within a day.

While the experiment was a failure, the Paradius duo recognized the flaws and knew they'd need to step up their progress with their other experiments for the End of Days.

Shortly after this conflict, an incident would occur that would trigger the turning point for the Defiant conflict.

(End theme)

---

Shinjuku, Tokyo (新宿区, 東京)/Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building (東京都庁舎)November 2, 2019/2:17 PM (JST)

This specific date was an important one in regards to freedom and rights for Digimon, which had been a heated topic of discussion since the first Digimon incursions in the 1990s. Dissent from anti-Digimon groups has only escalated into the 2000s and 2010s with Digimon crossing over and launching attacks on various Tokyo prefectures. On top of the Digimon incidents, Hypnos received severe criticism for their failure to contain 'Wild Ones' and allowing the D-Reaper to grow rapidly beyond their control.

Now, there have been growing concerns of Digimon who crossed over that are still living on Earth, which was the result of Kaiba Corporation and Hypnos' KC-HYPNOS Union. Their attempt to merge the Digital Realm and the Duel Monster world led to disastrous results, including allowing Digimon and Duel Monsters to cross over into the real world. The anti-Digimon groups, who've formed and consolidated with the Defiants, have demanded Digimon to be deported back to their original home in fear of incidents like the Odaiba Fog Incident, the 2005 & 2010 Digimon attacks, the Wild Ones spawning across Tokyo prefectures, the D-Reaper event, and the Digimon & Duel Monster incursion during the Rajita attack.

All of these incidents have given the Defiants enough reason to express discontent for Digimon. As a result, they've attacked numerous pro-Digimon groups, including those fighting for Digimon rights, including the original Digidestined, the Tamers, and the DATS organization.

Having gained support from the Defiants, Cain Bearer stepped forward to speak his mind on the Digimon rights subject. His opponent was Yagami Taichi, the leader of the original Digidestined, who recently became a United Nations diplomat for the Digital World.

Standing opposite from each other, Cain and Taichi addressed the questions and subject matter relating to Digimon rights.

"Mr. Bearer, do you believe Digimon have any rights as a human should?" A tall Caucasian man with baby blue eyes and light brown hair in a short buzz cut style and faded sides asked the CainCorp CEO.

"And your name is?" Cain queried.

"Marty sir."

"Well, Marty. Let me ask you, do animals have the same civic rights as a human? Can they vote or take someone to court?"

"No, but…"

"I rest my case."

"But, Digimon aren't just animals. They're highly intelligent beings capable of free will and speech like us. I've been around Digimon for 20 years. I'm partnered with a Digimon! We've fought together. We cried together. We cared for each other not just as partners but friends!" Taichi gave his rebuttal toward Cain's argument.

"That's because you Chosen have managed to domesticate your pets."

"They're not our pets. They're our friends," Taichi sternly corrected him.

"Fair enough, but what about those who aren't partnered with a human? There have been sightings of unsolicited Digimon in public areas and some have given problems to civilians. Local police can't exactly arrest anything beyond their jurisdictions."

"Because they're not properly trained to deal with Digimon delinquencies. I get it. Digimon aren't perfect. I never said that. There's bad apples among them just like humans. However, some are just plain scared and have no homes to go to. And the longer they stay out of digital space, the more they weaken over time. That's why friends and I have learned to put our partners in a digital space in our data networks to keep them alive. They're fortunate to have that. I can't say the same for the free-roaming Digimon that are still lurking in Tokyo and other parts of the world."

"So, we should just invite them into our digital networks and let them eat our data freely?"

"Not at all, but keeping them stored in a data network should help maintain their physical forms and keep their health in check."

"But, what if one uses that data network for themselves and attempts to shut down our digital networks?"

Taichi nodded. "It's a possibility but that's where we Digiteams come in. We can keep those deviants in check while the innocent Digimon get rights to data networks and be allowed to roam free in our living world."

Cain calmly smirked. "That's absurd, but fine, as you say. But, these fine people here aren't willing to lie down and accept newcomers from another world. In their mindset, you're allowing illegal immigrants to live among them."

"But…"

"I know these Digimon being here isn't your fault, Mr. Yagami. No, this is the result of Kaiba Corporation and Hypnos' failed attempt to merge two alternate realities into one. That resulted in many Digimon and other similar creatures roaming freely. Many have already returned to their world as they should but others are adamantly refusing to go back. Why is that?"

"Because they're looking for partners. My friends and I have been able to find human partners because Digimon's bonds have been strongest with a child."

"But, you and your friends aren't children anymore. So, why have Digimon partners?"

"Because they've helped shape and continue shaping our identities. We're not going to discard because people like you tell us, too," Taichi rebuked.

"These fine people here would disagree. They don't want to form bonds with Digimon. They want them to leave. The Digimon have already caused enough collateral damage to Tokyo. Do you realize how much damage to infrastructure was the result of Digimon attacks?"

"Yes, but we've managed to stop and even destroy some when push comes to shove. I already told you that not all Digimon are inherently good but they aren't all inherently evil either. Some destroy because humans provoked and scared them into self-defense mode. What happens when you corner a dangerous person or an animal? They attack."

Cain shook his head. "Ok, now let's discuss the matter of relocating the Digimon. What would you do to help Digimon find new homes if human partnerships aren't a viable option?"

"Returning them to the Digital World is another way but if there's Digimon who want to live here? We have them pass exams to earn their citizenship and grant them freedom of speech and the power to vote. Digimon are self-aware of what's going on with our human societies. They aren't naive to the good and bad we've done for our world. There's Digimon who wants to integrate with us and I have stepped up to be the bridge that connects the Human and Digital Worlds. You could say that's partly why Agumon and his friends returned to us because we're ready to take the next step in building Digimon and Human relations."

"Mr. Yagami, I have a question!" A woman called out, raising her hand in the audience. Standing next to Marty, the slightly taller Caucasian woman with reddish-brown eyes and straight neck-length coffee brown hair addressed him. "For the record, I think you're doing a fantastic job as the Digital World ambassador."

"Thank you, miss…?"

The woman smiled widely. "Just call me Andrea. I'm a big fan of your work."

"Thank you, Andrea. What's your question?"

"Do Digimon rights also apply to Duel Monsters? As you're aware, there have been Duel Monster sightings in the public and they've been seeking privileges and rights to live among humans."

"That's a good question. I'm not well versed with Duel Monsters but I know several groups are bigger experts on them. However, in my opinion, yes. Why not? They're highly intelligent and social beings with free wills and speech. And I know there's many seeking human partnerships, too."

This prompted loud jeers from the Defiant crowd, which dismayed Taichi. Behind the stage are Agumon, Ishida Yamato & Gabumon, Ishida-Takenouchi Sora & Piyomon, Yagami-Mochizuki Meiko, Yagami-Takashi Takeru & Patamon, Yagami-Takashi Hikari & Tailmon, Matsuda Takato & Guilmon, Makino Ruki & Renamon, and Lee Jianliang & Terriermon, who're watching the debate closely.

"Those people are getting too intense out there," Sora muttered.

"Don't let them get under your skin," Yamato tensely mumbled.

"Cain has his crowd all fired up. I don't like this," Takeru eyed the energized Defiant side.

"I still can't believe there's this growing resentment toward Digimon, and after all the goodwill we've done. It can't be all for naught," Hikari said.

"No, I refuse to accept that. We still have many supporters who believe in our cause," Takato asserted, expressing his loyalty to Taichi.

"Me, too. I'm not giving up on Taichi!" Guilmon exclaimed, eliciting a smile from Taichi's partner.

"Thanks, guys, for keeping faith in Taichi," graciously said Agumon.

"The Defiants aren't going to be easily convinced. It's going to take more than words, whether they have good intentions or not," Renamon said.

"You're right, but I don't want to give up on Taichi yet," Ruki said.

"Anyone who's partnered with a Digimon shouldn't," Jianliang stated.

"C'mon, Taichi! Show them down!" Terriermon cheered him on.

"Our supporters want to sever the Digital Realm from Earth. I think it would be in mankind's best interest," Cain addressed Taichi.

"Who knows, but I don't think that's necessary. I believe both sides can make decisions negotiable over taking extreme measures. What about your supporters threatening and already causing harm to Digimon and Duel Monsters?"

"Perhaps because they feel threatened with intruders living in our world. Earth is human ground."

"It's any living thing's ground, and Digimon and Duel Monsters shouldn't be denied rights to live here among us. Sorry, Mr. Bearer, but I don't believe severing the link between the Digital Realm and Earth will be beneficial in the long term."

"Short term perhaps?"

Taichi frowned. "Somehow, I doubt you're looking at the short term here. Not only do you want Digimon and Duel Monsters to leave, now you want to get rid of superhumans altogether. Why? What have they done to you?"

Cain replied with contempt in his voice. "One ruined my life and took my beloved."

"What do you mean…?"

Suddenly, a shot heard around the vicinity alarmed the crowds. As Grace quickly came to Cain's rescue, Taichi fell and covered up. He saw that Agumon jumped out and stopped the bullet from hitting him. Agumon's claw knocked the bullet down, negating what appeared to be an assassination attempt.

(Cue Persona 3 OST - The Voice Calls Someone)

"TAICHI!" The Digidestined and Tamers called out as they crowded over Taichi.

"Taichi, are you ok?!" Meiko worriedly cried out, holding tightly around her husband.

"I'm fine… but, what the hell? Who tried to shoot us?!"

"More like someone tried to shoot you, Taichi!" Agumon answered, pointing to the bullet he dumped on the floor.

"Up there!" Yamato pointed toward a figure covered in black on a building rooftop. With his Digivice, the Bearer of Friendship powered up Gabumon into MetalGarurumon as they took off toward the assassin. "Hey, stop!"

However, as soon as Yamato and MetalGarurumon arrived at the assassin's location, the gunman was gone. He was nowhere to be found.

"How did he vanish so suddenly, Yamato?" MetalGarurumon queried, scanning the location with his infrared sensors, but failed to trace anyone.

"Your guess is as good as mine, but we need to get to the bottom of this."

Just then, Takato & MegaloGrowmon floated over next to MetalGarurumon.

"Well? Did you find him?" Takato asked Yamato.

"No, he's gone."

"That coward got away. We'll get him, won't we, Takato?" MegaloGrowmon asked his Tamer.

"I hope so."

"Ok, let's scan more of this area and then check back with the others," Yamato said as he and MetalGarurumon continued their thorough search for the assassin.

As Hikari embraced Taichi, she cried on his shoulder.

"Thank god you're ok, Taichi!"

"Hey, I'm still alive, guys. Believe me, it could've been a lot worse."

"Yeah, with you possibly being dead!" Takeru exclaimed.

"He's right. Now, with you becoming the Digital World ambassador, you're a bigger target for dissenters out there," Sora said.

"You're going to need the extra security," Tailmon suggested.

"Yeah, I guess you're right."

Meiko shook her head and wiped her tears. "Please take this seriously, Taichi. If this is the risk an ambassador has to take, then you need protection. Do it for me. No, do it for all of us."

Taichi openly complied with his wife's wishes. "Alright, I'll do it for you, guys."

---

Having escaped capture by Yamato and MetalGarurumon, the assassin in black climbed down a stairway and entered a back alley. Ripping the black mask off, the assassin revealed herself as Psyren, who promptly answered her communication apparatus.

"Psyren, where are you?" Cain's voice was heard from the communication device.

"I'm in a back alley on the southwestern side in Shinjuku. There's posters all over the walls…"

"Don't worry. I have a lock on your location. One of my people is heading over to pick you up. Stay there."

"Yes, Mr. Bearer," Psyren answered. "I was unable to kill Yagami Taichi."

"It's fine, Psyren. I suspected one of those Digimon would save his hide. In any case, you just helped plant the seeds of this Defiant conflict. Now, those Digimon supporters will have their hands full. Return to my building and don't let anyone see you."

"Understood," the hired assassin nodded, shutting off and crushing the device under her heel. After putting away her silencer, her face suddenly contorted. "Not now." She massaged her face. "It's not time." When flashes of the Digimon appeared in her mind, she sensed a manic desire to kill them. "...focus. You must stay composed." She slapped herself hard. "...no, must go to Paradius."

When a limo pulled up, Psyren turned and faced the vehicle.

"Mr. Bearer is expecting you, Miss Psyren."

When the limo driver got out of the limo, he expected to find Psyren but when he went to get her, she was already gone.

"Miss Psyren?"

(End theme)

---

Paradius Dimension

Having been transported from her location, Psyren arrived in the otherworldly realm where Paradius currently operated. She saw Sailor Charon appear in front of her.

"Welcome back, Psyren. I take it your mission for Cain didn't go as you wanted?" Charon asked the assassin.

Rather than freak out at the sight of her new location and Charon's presence, the assassin nodded like none of it mattered.

"That's ok. You've at least planted and sown the seeds of chaos and doubt for the impending Defiant War. Give yourself credit in that regard," Charon reminded her.

"Yes, soon conflicts will arise and humanity's darkness will fuel Paradius' agenda before the End of Days."

Charon patted Psyren's shoulders. "I knew I could count on you after separating you from that entity, our agent of chaos. Now, go and be free until we summon you for another assignment. Enjoy yourself. Have yourself a feast if you so desire."

With an evil grin adorning Psyren's features, the assassin bowed.

"Charon, is that our loyal agent coming back to us?" The Prophet asked as he appeared beside Charon.

"She's done what we asked her to do, even though it didn't go exactly what we wanted. Yagami Taichi still lives."

"I see. Setbacks are bound to happen but that's ok. Humanity is set to crumble in any case. You've only helped sow the seeds of doubt and despair, which is all we need, Psyren," the hooded entity reassured the assassin. "Charon, there's something I'd like to show you. Our projects are coming along well."

"Psyren, you're dismissed until we summon you again."

"As you wish," the assassin replied as she vanished.

With Psyren gone, the Paradius duo entered a dark spacious room that looked like a laboratory. Hundreds of digitized visual screens filled the ground level and ceiling of the spacious area. There were also numerous containers full of neon green and orange fluids. Inside some small containers are human-like figures, including nine figures that looked like the Sailor Guardians and six that resembled the Kuiper Guardians. Sitting on the opposite side are three 20-foot tall containers with large creatures inside and a fourth with a female human with a striking resemblance to Hino Rei.

"Don't worry. Even if the SOUJA doesn't meet expectations, we always have backup plans," the Prophet reassured his partner-in-crime.

Charon approached the fifteen containers. "Humanity's darkness is being transferred into our projects, fueling them with enough power once they've awakened. Our Sailor Blood and Kuiper Bizarro Guardians should be ready soon, but our other entities require more time and darkness to fuel their awakening."

"Oh yes, these four," the Prophet eyed the three beasts and the cloned woman. "No matter, there's still time for them. In the meantime, I've gathered the data of the most malicious Digimon I could conjure."

"How many?"

"Seven."

Charon evilly smirked. "Well now, what an unlucky number for those Digi-nuisances."

"I'd like to call them the Seven Sinful Rulers and they'll be ready once the Digiteams will be too busy occupied with the forthcoming Defiant War. Cain already has his Defiants and SOUJA ready. And we have our entities ready to give our enemies trouble. Oh, and let's not forget our agent of chaos," the Prophet stated, giving credit to Psyren's latest assignment. "Without her action today, our projects wouldn't be fueled with so much of humanity's darkness and despair."

"Even with some setbacks, it's all going as we wanted, Millenniummon. We've even made sure another timeline couldn't stop us."

"That's right. That far future we destroyed shouldn't cause us any problems now. No matter what our enemies try to do, they cannot delay the impending End of Days!" The Prophet boastfully declared.

---

Shinjuku, Tokyo (新宿区, 東京)/9:35 PM (JST)

After she met with Paradius, Psyren returned to her small apartment and got out of her assassin's clothing. Standing in front of a mirror butt naked, Psyren didn't blink or say a word. Today's hit job didn't seem to affect her much, but being an experienced assassin, her assignment to kill Yagami Taichi was just another job for her. Nothing else.

As she stared into her mirror, Psyren tilted her head. She then ran her fingers through her shoulder-length steel blonde hair, which instantly grew slightly longer and turned reddish-brown. Her facial features became softer and also changed in conjunction with her hair color change. Her eyes turned brown. After caressing her face, she put on some make-up and slipped into a steel blue leather mini dress, shin-length pantyhose, and clear white high heels.

Before leaving her apartment, Psyren took another look at her reflection. She noted something missing and remembered. She took out a small hairband and tied a small ponytail knot on the side of her head. With that, she walked out of her apartment and headed to meet with her newest client.

Heading into a red light district side of town, Psyren took a glance over other prostitutes in the area waiting for services. She stopped near a light post and waited for her client. After 20 minutes passed, she saw her client approach her. He is a young and slightly chubby man in a business suit and wearing glasses. She noted the man's employee ID fastened on his coat, which she recognized from CainCorp.

"Sorry, I'm late."

"It's ok. I'm a patient woman," Psyren smirked, realizing her prostitute disguise worked and that the man didn't recognize her.

"So, are we ready to do this, babe?" He asked with some reservation.

As he showed her some yen, Psyren nodded and followed him.

As they booked a room in a whore house, Psyren and the businessman locked lips. Folding her arms around his neck, Psyren made out with him. As he then pushed her on their bed, the business took off his belt and undid his pants. He confessed that he hadn't gotten a proper girlfriend since all of them found his lewd and grotesque misogyny to be turn-offs, leaving him with no potential love interest to engage with. When he sought out prostitutes, he claimed this would be this way of redeeming himself and learning to respect women better. After hearing him out, Psyren sadistically grinned and beckoned the man toward her. As they kissed, she let him remove her mini dress. Once he undid his pants, he leaned over and lied on top of the naked Psyren.

The two passionately kissed. Psyren then placed her hands on his face and shoved her tongue into his mouth. While kissing with their tongues, the man shoved his member inside Psyren, thrusting into her as she gasped and let out heavy breaths.

"Is this your first time?" He asked her.

"Yes, but don't be gentle. I can take this," Psyren replied as she stared deeply into his eyes. Her alluring gaze caused him to stop. Scoffing, Psyren placed her hands on his cheeks and kissed him. "Keep this going. I wish to continue. Make my first intercourse worth our while. That's why you paid me."

Nodding, the man continued thrusting into and did so forcibly, eliciting orgasmic grunts and gasps. As she held the bedposts, Psyren let out a powerful orgasmic scream, enjoying every bit of their intercourse.

"Did you like that, babe?"

"Like it? I want more. Yes, I require more data about human intercourse incorporated into my being," Psyren said, which confused the businessman.

"What?" He asked until something caught his attention. He noticed bright red slime seeping from Psyren's crotch where his member was still inserted. "...the fuck?"

(Cue Final Fantasy VII Remake OST - Trail of Blood)

"Hmmm, and I've also learned something else during our sexual intercourse," Psyren said as she rose and looked him deep into his eyes. "You can't hide the truth from me. I've learned more about you through our interactions."

"What are you talking about?"

"I've scanned your insecurities. I know all there is to know about you. Up to now, you've never had intercourse with another human before, much less those of the female sex. Having suffered a terrible childhood, you, out of some petty vengeance, instead chose to demean the female sex and treat them like they're beneath you. Men don't respect you for not taking responsibility in your pathetic life. You are just like many useless humans who continue to infest this world."

(Cue Silent Hill 2 - Nurse Piper)

As he listened to Psyren demean him, he growled and slapped Psyren. However, expecting her to scream, Psyren just turned her head and pulled him into an embrace. The chubby man tried breaking loose, but Psyren overpowered him and maintained her hold, refusing to let him go. Like a constrictor snake, she squeezed him so hard that his eyes nearly bulged out of the sockets.

"Sssh, relax. It will be over soon," Psyren smirked. As she held him tight, an extra pair of hands poked out of her body and caressed his face while her lips pressed against his for a deep kiss. As she kissed the businessman, she started sucking the life out of him. The more she sucked, the slimmer his chubby body became.

The man witnessed his body shrinking from his usual girth and weight. He started resembling a shriveled-up raisin. With his life force being drained, his eyes turned pure white and rolled back inside his eye sockets. As she continued to drain him, a pair of blue wings poked from her back. As she pulled her lips away, her eyes turned bright yellow. Her mouth gained a jagged tooth appearance.

"Mmm, thank you for the delicious data. Now, I've seen where humanity's darkness can be harvested, Paradius. Their selfish desires and disdain for your fellow species are what'll herald the forthcoming anarchy that will destroy your world. I now have more reason to feed on humanity and remove their maligned existence," Psyren chortled. Before leaning in for another kiss, Psyren muttered. "Now. Delete." She locked lips with the shriveled man as his body dissolved into digitized data, which she freely consumed.

After having eaten her fill, Psyren lay back in their bed with the man's clothes still lying next to her. Without a care in the world, Psyren maniacally laughed.

"Yes, let us bring down the sea of chaos on humanity, Paradius. Let the End of Days be upon us!" She then turned and faced the only window in the room. "Soon our paths shall cross again, Tamers."

(End theme)

---

Shinjuku, Tokyo (新宿区, 東京)/Hotel/10:36 PM (JST)

After what could've been the end of Yagami Taichi, the Digiteams amassed for a meeting and checked in with Taichi. The other Digidestined, the Tamers, Team DATS, the Legendary Warriors, Wallace, Nadeshiko, and Hitsuki discussed the devastating effects the near assassination caused.

"Man, am I glad you're ok, Taichi. That could've ended up badly," Masaru consoled the Bearer of Courage.

"I was there. Yamato, myself, and our Digimon went after the assassin but he vanished without a trace," Takato addressed, unable to get a good look at Psyren.

(Cue Persona 5 OST 87 - Restlessness)

Staring outside a window, Yamato monitored the near-riot occurring outside the hotel. A gathering of pro-Digimon clashed with Defiant supporters as local police and riot squads tried to maintain order amid the dangerous vicinity.

"It's looking pretty bad out there. I'm surprised all of you decided to bother showing up," Yamato stated.

"When you try to kill one of the original Digidestined and an advocate for Digimon rights, then you mess with the rest of us," Takuya added, showing his support for Taichi's ideals.

"Thanks, guys. I'm glad I know all of you are still with us," Taichi smiled approvingly.

"Hey, shouldn't you two be out there with the police?" Jianliang asked Kotori and Himura.

"We were tasked to protect Taichi and Meiko. Nah I don't think they'll need us out there," Kotori replied.

"It's better this way. We're right where we belong among friends and the other Digiteams," Himura said, acknowledging the other Digiteams.

"You got that right!" Betamon and BlackGabumon concurred with Kotori and Himura.

"Are you doing ok, Agumon?" Guilmon asked Taichi's loyal friend.

"I was feeling a little rattled just like Taichi is, but I'm feeling better now. Thanks for asking, Guilmon."

"It'll be ok, my friend," Gabumon patted Agumon's back.

"I swear who could've wanted to assassinate Taichi?" Sora wondered.

"It had to be a Defiant. They've been becoming high strung as of late," Jou deduced.

"It wouldn't surprise us. Cain has certainly been drumming up enough support and they eat up every word he says," Koushiro stated.

"As if him constantly reminding us about his anti-superhuman narrative wasn't enough, now he wants to target Digimon and Duel Monsters," Ken mentioned.

"Have any of you talked to Yugi and Judai's groups about this?" Taichi asked the Tamers and Legendary Warriors.

"We haven't, but we'll be sure to talk to them," Takato replied.

"Considering we also have Duel Monster groups living among us like the Time Thieves, Vampires, and the Valkyries, our Duel Monster friends need to be vigilant," Renamon added.

"Ah, that's right! Philippe's sister, Saya, is dating a Duel Monster vampire! Oh, man. I hope those Defiants don't give them trouble or they'll be dealing with me," Kotori vowed to protect her cousin's family.

"Hey let's not forget you and Kai, Renamon," Ruki reminded her Digimon partner. "If Defiants see you together, shit will hit the fan, especially if Digimon and human romance couples are exposed to the public."

Nodding, Renamon muttered. "No need to fear. We keep our matters private, but to ease my mind, we should check in with him."

"Yo, Hirokazu. You're still dating Dragonmaid Chame, aren't you? You two need to be extra careful," Kenta reminded his friend.

"Oh crap, you're right. Though, without her maid dragon get-up, no one will recognize her," Kazu said.

"You still have to be cautious, Hirokazu," Jianliang warned him.

"Yeah, I'd hate to see a hot babe like Chame get hurt," Terriermon remarked.

"Hey, at least you acknowledge she's a total cutie. She can keep cleaning my messy room anytime," Hirokazu grinned.

Ruki rolled her eyes and snorted. "Oh brother, give me a break."

"Hey, Taichi. If you and Meiko need anything, Nadeshiko, Hitsuki, and I are more than happy to help," Wallace offered their support for the Yagami-Mochizuki couple.

"We appreciate your concerns, Wallace," Meiko smiled with gratitude.

"Yeah, but I'd say worry about yourselves for now. I'll rebound from this setback. No matter what those Defiants, or this assassin, do, they're not going to stop me from my hopes of seeing peace between our world and the Digital Worlds. Yeah, I know I have a lot of work cut out for me."

"We're not giving up on you even if Cain's Defiant supporters continue to grow," Yamato said.

Masaru's Agumon raised his claws and rallied his friends. "Team DATS are with you all the way! Right, Aniki?"

Masaru hollered. "Hell yeah! Screw those Defiants!"

Takuya nodded. "And us Legendary Warriors will be there when you need us."

"And we'll be with you every step along the way," Takato showed his support on his team's behalf.

"Thank you, everyone. These are challenging times and even dark times, but I know there's a light ahead for us." However, Taichi had his suspicions and mindset on Paradius, especially Millenniummon as the impending End of Days drew nearer.

(End theme)

---

Crystal Tokyo/Crystal Palace/November 3019/11:17 AM (JST)

Although, one far future timeline was all but eradicated. There was another that Paradius hadn't struck yet: Crystal Tokyo of the 30th century.

Following a tearful goodbye from the far future, Athena went on a long and stressful journey across time and space. She was sent directly to the prime of Crystal Tokyo and Neo-Queen Serenity's reign. Upon landing in a garden, Athena landed near where she met a familiar pink-haired girl with a bunhead hairstyle, red eyes, and a bright pink princess gown.

As Athena awoke, she was awakened by the pink-haired child, who shook her hard. Athena quickly identified her as the younger version of her Queen Serenity, the same one who sent her through a time portal out of the far, grim future. With tears filling her eyes, Athena hugged Chibiusa. Confused as to why this teenage girl is crying and hugging her at first sight, Chibiusa couldn't help but show her compassion.

(Cue Sailor Moon Eternal OST - Future Sailor Warriors)

When guards arrived with the Sailor Quartet, they checked with Chibiusa and asked where the trespasser was. Chibiusa quickly clarified that Athena is not an intruder and explained to them what happened. Cautious about Athena's presence, the Sailor Quartet took her to meet with Neo-Queen Serenity and King Endymion.

Chibiusa approached her parents and pleaded for Athena's case. "Please don't be mad and punish her, mom and dad. She arrived here through a time portal."

"A time portal? Is Pluto responsible for this?" King Endymion asked.

"No, it wasn't Sailor Pluto. It was her," Athena said, pointing to Chibiusa, which befuddled the child and her parents.

"Chibiusa did?" Neo-Queen Serenity asked, raising a brow of suspicion toward Chibiusa and Athena.

"No, not your daughter but her older future self. She used the Time Key to send me here to warn you that something terrible will happen in the past," Athena informed them. She then went on to tell them about the Paradius duo ravaging her far-future world. She warned this dialogical duo intends to stage a wave of chaos in the past where Sailor Moon and the Sailor Guardians are still active.

Although they were unsure whether to trust Athena, Chibiusa pleaded for her case and believed they should go back to the past to verify.

"Please, let me and Athena go to the past and warn the Sailor Guardians. They deserve to know what's going to happen."

Neo-Queen Serenity mused. "Or, perhaps they already do."

"What do you mean?" Chibiusa asked.

"I have sensed calamities occurring in the past lately. My past self has amassed and forged alliances with other groups and they're facing a dangerous enemy who's in league with Chaos," Neo-Queen Serenity firmly stated.

"They call themselves the Paradius duo and my future is pretty much gone, sans a few survivors, including my Queen Serenity. I fear she, too, has met her end," grimly said Athena as Chibiusa could be heard audibly gasping fearfully.

"If you're going with our princess, then we'll come as well," Sailor Ceres spoke out.

"Might we propose the other Guardians' daughters go, too?" Sailor Juno suggested.

"Oho, now there's a splendid idea!" Sailor Pallas chimed in.

"Are they ready though? It doesn't seem like their training isn't complete," Sailor Vesta wondered.

"We've had long discussions with their families and they feel it's time for them to see action," King Endymion said. "Princess Serenity, my daughter, would you like your friends to come with you as well?"

Chibiusa nodded. "Yeah, if they're ready."

With that, four more Sailor Guardians entered the royal courtroom. Athena's eyes widened when she saw younger versions of Sailor Cyber Mercury, Sailor Blue Mars, Sailor Battle Jupiter, and Sailor Tamamo Venus.

Sailor Cyber Mercury has short, neck-length light purple hair.

Sailor Blue Mars has notable features akin to a Koorime like Yukina, including long sea-green hair and red eyes.

Sailor Battle Jupiter has long back-length light green hair tied in a thick ponytail.

Sailor Tamamo Venus has long, back-length orange hair and a pair of reddish-orange fox ears poking out of her hair.

Then, three more walked into the courtroom. Athena saw three boys: a boy who resembled Urameshi Yusuke with short black hair and blue cheek marks. Another boy who resembled Hiei with extra long hair tied into a ponytail. The third is a boy with dark blue hair and glasses.

"You're all here. Oh my god, it's really you," Athena teared up at the sight of Chibiusa's friends, who are all younger than the ones she knew from her far future. She then nodded to the three boys. "RJ, Ryuuhi, and Daiki, too!"

RJ blinked. "Um, hi? How do you know our names?"

"Beats me? I've never seen her before," Daiki acknowledged his friend's confusion.

"Um, are you ok?" Sailor Battle Jupiter asked her.

"Why are you crying?" Sailor Blue Mars queried worryingly.

"She acts like she knows us, sis," Ryuuhi addressed Blue Mars.

"Care to tell us who this is?" Sailor Cyber Mercury asked Chibiusa.

"Athena, who are your parents? I sense you bear a Sailor Crystal," Neo-Queen Serenity Serenity addressed the time traveler.

"My parents are Karin Osaka and Dimitri Uchida."

"So, you're Sedna and Perseus' daughter. That explains the sword you wield," King Endymion recognized Perseus' sword strapped to Athena's back.

"My father passed his sword to me and modified it so I could manifest a greater potential than he ever could. It was enough to fight off the Meklords, but once the Paradius duo arrived, I couldn't stop them. No matter what I did, I failed."

Chibiusa approached Athena and held her hands. "You won't fail because we're coming with you to the past. Sailor Moon and the Sailor Guardians will help us and we'll beat Paradius!"

As she looked into Chibiusa's resolute eyes, Athena smiled and nodded knowingly.

"That's exactly what my Queen Serenity said to me, but I feel I can firmly believe you now. I think I have a chance, especially knowing my mom, dad, and the Kuiper Guardians are in the past, too."

"I think it would be prudent if you had another group to join you," King Endymion stated.

"Who might you suggest, your highness?" Sailor Ceres asked directly.

"I think I might have an idea who you might be proposing," Athena said.

"You'll find a group with the Signer Dragons in Neo Domino City," King Endymion referred to a certain group of duelists with mystic powers.

"You mean…" Chibiusa gasped.

"No way, you're for them to come with us?" RJ asked with a look of enthusiasm on his face.

"Go there and find the group led by Fudo Yusei. We've sensed that their Signer powers have returned to them. Perhaps they've realized an imminent danger awaits them. I believe one of them has been warned about Paradius' meddling through their dreams," Queen Serenity explained. "Once you find the Signers, bring them here."

Bowing their heads, the new Sailor Guardians, the Sailor Quartet, and three boys responded in unison. "Yes, my queen."

"Ready to go, Athena?" Chibiusa asked the time traveler.

Nodding, Athena answered. "Yeah."

(End theme)

---

Tops Residential Resort/Neo Domino City/4:38 PM (JST)

It has been over six months since Z-ONE's defeat. With all present dangers linked to their previous enemies gone, the Signers moved on with their lives. With the Public Safety Maintenance Bureau dissolved into a city hall, political power was transferred to their new mayor Lazar.

Putting dueling days on halt, Fudo Yusei became a scientist that helped supervise the completion of a new Ener-D mainframe, which he called Fortune, to ensure the city's safety. His goal is to link New Domino with the rest of the world, including Crystal Tokyo in hopes of expanding the usage of Ener-D. Crow became a highway patroller. Aki was planning to study abroad to become a doctor. Rua and Ruka recently got a letter from their parents to come live with them and leave behind Neo Domino City. This and Jack's intent to leave Neo Domino City for a World League placed the Signers' unity in question.

(Cue Yu-Gi-Oh! 5D's - Sound Duel 1 - 05. Yusei Fudo)

Before settling on a duel to determine the Signers' fate, Chibiusa and her group met with Yusei and Jack to discuss the imminent danger that could affect their future. It was then Chibiusa brought up one of the Signers' having a dream related to Paradius' meddling with the past.

It was later confirmed to be Ruka, who was summoned into the Duel Monster Spirit World by Ancient Fairy Dragon. When asked what imminent danger was ahead, Ancient Fairy Dragon warned Ruka about a disaster in the past that will affect their future.

Calling forth for a meeting in Rua and Ruka's residence, Yusei, Jack, Chibiusa, Athena, and the new Sailor Guardians met with the twins, Aki, and Crow. When Ruka explained her dreams to everyone, Chibiusa and her group's suspicions were confirmed.

"So, you want us to come with you all to the past to defeat this Paradius organization?" Yusei asked.

"Yeah, if we want to ensure our future, we have to go save the past," Chibiusa said.

"We will need the extra helping hands, but we won't force you to come with us," Sailor Ceres stated.

"Just know we will be fighting a dangerous enemy," Athena added.

"The fact you came back from a far future to warn everyone, I can understand where you're coming from. After I defeated Z-One, I was told I am the hope of the future. You, having just come back from another time, have been charged with such a difficult task, Athena," Yusei reaffirmed Athena's mission. "You can count on me to help you."

"Thank you, Fudo Yusei. You won't regret this," Athena nodded.

"What about the rest of you guys? Are you in?" Yusei addressed the other Signers. In response, they nodded in agreement. "We still have our Dragon Marks and access to our Signer Dragons, so we should be able to lend you support. Anything to keep Paradius from making anymore Meklords."

The pink-haired princess genuinely smiled, happy to know the Signers have willfully accepted their alliance. "I'm glad to hear this. Now, let's go and see my parents."

---

Crystal Tokyo/Crystal Palace/5:54 PM (JST)

After returning with the Signers, Neo-Queen Serenity and King Endymion commended them as heroes of Neo Domino City and were honored to help the Sailor Guardians. In exchange, Yusei showed respect for the royal family and vowed he would ensure everyone's safety.

Then, using the Time Key, Chibiusa invoked the spell and opened a time portal for them.

(Cue Sailor Moon Crystal OST - Arrival of the Sailor Guardians)

Upon recognizing the pink light enveloping them, Athena remembered this exact spell used to pull her away from her far future. In an instant, the whole group of time travelers were swallowed by the portal and sent 1000 years into the past. They safely passed the time stream, leaving Neo-Queen Serenity, King Endymion, and the veteran Sailor Guardians.

Bowing her head ever lightly, Neo-Queen and Serenity whispered. "Good luck, everyone, especially you, my Princess Serenity."

---

Domino City/Kaiba Corp Building/Rooftop/November 2019/6:16 PM (JST)

The pink light expanded into a portal and dumped the whole group on the top of Kaiba Corporation's rooftop. Diana, who also joined the group, inspected the area and looked out to recognize the modern era setting. Chibiusa's friends, the Quartet, and the Signers marveled at the sighting of early-21st century Tokyo, trying to get over the fact there's a 1000 year difference between the periods.

Serving as co-leaders of their group, Yusei and Chibiusa charged them with tasks. Chibiusa, her Sailor Guardians, and the three boys would go find Usagi and her groups. Yusei decided that the Signers would meet this period's hero duelists. After giving each other communication devices, Chibiusa and Yusei went their separate ways until their next meeting.

(End theme)

---

Secret Base/Game Crown Center/Azabu-Jūban, Minato (麻布十番, 港区)/8:25 PM (JST)

Later that evening, the Sailor Guardians and Kuiper Guardians called forth a meeting about the escalating Defiant conflicts, which has put innocent civilians in the way of unruly Defiant supporters, who have shown undying support of Cain Bearer's extremist platform. The attempted assassination of Yagami Taichi placed them in a precarious situation. Although sworn to protect the innocent from extraterrestrials and other outside forces, this is the first time they've been placed in a position where normal people would be their potential enemy. They questioned how they'd even go and protect humans from extremist humans without hurting anyone.

(Cue Sense of Isolation - Persona 3 The Movie OST)

Half of the group, mostly Usagi and her friends, decided that they should help whoever they can to ease the tensions. However, the other half, comprising the Outers, Kurama, and Hiei, decided that the civilians should fight their own battles and settle their disputes. Setsuna and Lupe spoke out that if nothing is done about the Defiant situation, it could lead to serious consequences that will affect their future.

"No matter what we do, the Defiant side will just view us as their enemy simply for having powers beyond their comprehension," Setsuna simply put, silencing the arguing between the two sides.

"But, what can we do? I just don't want any fighting between the innocent we've been protecting," Usagi asked.

"I agree but sometimes it can't be avoided," Karin said.

"Humans are always going to fight over things they don't understand. Some still aren't accepting of us with superpowers," Dimitiri added.

"They're going to perceive us as threats," Kensuke said.

"Sorry. While we may settle on our disputes, those Defiants won't see anything we do or say differently. They're all in on Cain's propaganda," Haruka rebuked.

"C'mon, let's all settle down, everyone," Ami said.

"Yeah, let's not tear each other's heads off since this is just a debate," Makoto stated.

"We may have different viewpoints, but we're all still friends here. Right, Kurama?" Minako turned over to her red-haired boyfriend.

"Eloquently put, Minako," Kurama replied.

"Uh, nothing said was eloquent, but ok."

"I still think those stupid humans should finish each other off so we don't have to listen to their constant bickering," Hiei scoffed, which got his face pinched by Rei.

"No, we don't let any humans kill each other off under our watch. What's wrong with you, Hiei?" Rei frowned.

Rubbing his pinched face, Hiei scowled. "Then, why don't you ask the Hōō to settle their disputes."

"Because this is not the Hōō's place to fight. She and I agreed not to use her power unless necessary."

"Right and this is not the time to rely on her," Hotaru concurred.

"Look, guys. The best we can do and I hate to say this but we just stand by and observe. Just expect some ugliness to come out of this, namely riots. Then again, it could be worse. Assassination attempts have ultimately been catalysts to war. Look at how World War I started," Mamoru shed light on an impending situation that could spiral out of control.

"What happened?" Usagi asked.

"An archduke and his wife were shot to death, which set off the chain of events leading to the first World War," Setsuna revealed. "Thankfully, Yagami Taichi didn't share their fate. We're lucky in that regard."

"But, who'd try to assassinate Taichi?" Minako wondered.

"Who knows but I imagine someone who disagreed with his viewpoints but was hinged enough to go to such extreme lengths," Michiru replied. "It's odd that they haven't caught the assassin yet."

"It's as if that assassin just vanished. I suspect this person is not even a human. It's someone who wants to stir shit and break an already fragile situation. Hell, how do we know Cain didn't hire this guy to kill Taichi?" Haruka said.

"That's a good point. That Cain jerk-off has had it out against super-powered people since the start," Makoto said.

"We won't know until this assassin steps forth and tells the truth," Lupe stated.

"And only if he or she wants to or not, but I propose we keep our eyes open for anything suspicious," Setsuna proposed.

(End theme)

Just then, the group heard the secret base's door open. Alarmed and confused by the sudden intrusion, they turned around and faced the stairway.

"Careful, everyone," Luna warned them.

"No one but us should have access to this base. I even upped the security!" Artemis exclaimed.

Surprising Luna and Artemis, Diana hopped down in front of them.

"Ah, momma and poppa, but your security is nowhere near as advanced as Crystal Tokyo's!" Diana winked.

"Diana?!" The mooncat parents cried out in unison.

"If Diana is here, then…!" Usagi gasped as she and the others saw Chibiusa walking down the stairway with the Sailor Quartet, the new Sailor Guardians, and the three boys behind her. When her and Chibiusa's eyes met, the girls ran toward each other and hugged. "Chibiusa!"

"Usagi! I'm back!" Chibiusa cried happily on her shoulder. She then went over and hugged Mamoru. "Mamo, I'm sorry for this unexpected visit!"

"No, we're glad you're here, but why are you here? Dangerous events are happening now," Mamoru informed her.

"That's why we came back, Mamo! Someone came to our time from a far future and warned us about some group called Paradius looking to cause some Defiant War!" Chibiusa announced, bringing deep silence to the room.

"So, you know about Paradius? What else did this person tell you?" Hotaru asked Chibiusa.

"Hotaru, you're looking well and like your old self again," the pink-haired princess hugged her best friend, noticing Hotaru was fully back to her former height. "Listen, I don't know who's in Paradius but I just know they're causing trouble for you."

"If you wish to know who this future messenger that came to our time is, it's her," CereCere pointed to Athena, who walked down the stairway.

"Good evening, everyone. I apologize for intruding like this," Athena said.

"You're not intruding at all. Please, tell us your name," Usagi said.

"Athena."

"That's a beautiful name. Who gave it to you?" Karin queried to the future traveler.

"You and him," Athena pointed to Karin and Dimitri. "Because I'm your future daughter."

(Cue Sailor Moon Crystal OST - The Bonds of the Sailor Guardians)

In response to this, Karin and Dimitri were left flabbergasted by this revelation. The couple approached Athena to closely examine her. Karin noted Athena's physical attributes, mainly the hair color and her face are similar to hers. Dimitri noticed the girl had his blue eyes, but most of all, he recognized Perseus' sword on her back. The sword's hilt was remodeled steel pink. When he summoned his Perseus sword, he compared his sword with Athena's. Sure enough, Dimitri verified it to be the genuine article.

Kensuke was taken aback to learn he would be an uncle in the future. When Athena noticed him, she quickly hugged him.

"It's so good to see you, uncle Ken," Athena said. "And same with you, aunt Christina."

"Aunt Christina?" The Australian Kuiper Guardian blinked, realizing she and Kensuke are likely to be married sometime soon.

"There's no question. It's my sword. It's only been altered in color," Dimitri said as Athena hugged him.

"Dad! I'm glad to see you again! Well, the younger you!" Athena cried against his shoulder.

"Athena, what happened to your time?" Karin queried.

"Mostly gone. Your future selves and Queen Serenity sacrificed themselves to ensure I come to see you," Athena said. "And my future time? Likely gone because of Paradius. Those monsters!"

"Did you get their faces? Or names?" Setsuna asked Athena.

"Yes, it was a man in a cloak and a woman who…" Athena gasped as she got a closer inspection of Setsuna's face. "She had a face like yours but her hair and attire was mostly black!"

Scowling under her breath, Setsuna nearly scared Athena. "...Charon, that bitch."

"Charon. Yes, that's her name!" Athena remembered. "And the other one called himself the Prophet."

"Damn it all, now Paradius can travel through time and wreak havoc on other timelines?" Haruka growled.

"One of them has to have the power of time travel to pull this off," Minako speculated.

"Yes, because one cannot time travel without access to an artifact such as the Time Key," the Time Guardian reminded them.

"Yeah, that's how I got here with my friends," Chibiusa confided with Setsuna, showing her the Time Key.

"Damn, so Karin and Dimitri have a kid in the future? That's not surprising, but seeing her here and now? That's crazy," Christina remarked.

"That must mean the rest of us won't be too far off from having daughters and sons?" Jami asked.

"Well, I can't reveal too much about your future other than who I brought with me," Athena said.

"Oh yeah! Guys, look who I brought with me!" Chibiusa announced as she beckoned the new Sailor Guardians and the three boys, who emerged and stepped forward. "Go on, guys. Introduce yourselves!"

"Yo, I'm Raizen Jr. Or, you can call me RJ, but if you get to know me. I'm Yusuke and Keiko's son," RJ flashed a big grin and pointed to himself.

"I knew just by looking at you and your scent confirmed it," Kurama smirked. "Be sure to stop by your parents' place, RJ."

The purple-haired pre-adolescent girl stepped forward, wearing a modest smile. "Hello, Mizuno Ami. I'm Lee-Mizuno Amaya. I'm yours and Jianliang's daughter."

"And I'm Lee-Mizuno Daiki. Of course, I'd be your son," Daiki politely introduced himself.

The sea green-haired girl walked forward, bowing politely. "Hino Rei and Hiei. Good evening, I'm Hino Koori and I'm your daughter."

The Hiei doppelganger crossed his arms and scoffed. "And just by looking at me, I'm your son. I'm Hino Ryuuhi."

The light green-haired girl stepped up and put on a big grin. "Hey, Kino Makoto! I'm Shibayama-Kino Umi. I'm yours and Junpei's daughter!"

Finally, the orange-haired fox girl walked up and pumped her fist up. "And I'm Minamino-Aino Ai! Or, you can also call me 'Love' if you want." She then pulled out two roses from her pocket, handing them off to Minako and Kurama. "Right, mom and dad?"

"No way!" Minako gasped while staring at the rose.

"Yes, you are definitely my daughter," Kurama smirked. "Your scent confirms this."

"And those adorable fox ears are a dead giveaway, too!" Minako squeed, playing with Ai's fox ears, which annoyed the half-fox demon.

"Hey, that tickles!" Ai squeaked out.

"Thank you for the roses, Ai. They're exquisite. As I'd expect from my daughter," Kurama said, smelling the rose's fragrance.

"You're welcome. Your future selves are just as beautiful," Ai nodded.

"Of course, beauty should run in our family! No daughter of mine is going to look average!" Minako proudly boasted.

"I don't think you should put it like that, Minako," Kurama muttered.

Ai chuckled. "No, she's right. I mean, mom and I are Aphrodite's legacy."

"Father, even during this time, my brother and I are almost as tall as you. Mom said we'll grow taller," Koori sighed as she and Ryuuhi approached Rei and Hiei.

"You've got my looks but Yukina's hair color and eyes," Rei noticed her future daughter's inherited Koorime features. She then turned toward Ryuuhi. "And you definitely have your dad's looks, but, I can see my eyes in you."

"It makes sense since she has Koorime blood running through her. The females will all turn out with Yukina's hair. My daughter would be no exception. And my genes would of course be dominant when it comes to my son" Hiei said, acknowledging his two children.

Rei chuckled. "You're taking this pretty well, Hiei. I just never imagined I'd ever had kids in the future."

"How are aunt Yukina and uncle Kuwabara doing in this timeline?" Koori smiled, which she knew asking about Kuwabara would annoy her father.

"They're doing wonderful, sweetie," Rei giggled, responding on her boyfriend's behalf.

"Heh, your mother is right, Koori. In my time, you and Ryuuhi are a lot taller than Hiei," Athena interjected in their conversation.

"See?" Koori openly and proudly smiled.

"Oh, I think dad's jealous," Ryuuhi sneakily grinned.

"Whatever," Hiei scoffed until Koori and Ryuuhi hugged him, which he returned in kind.

"I always wondered if we'd have kids of our own. So, are you and your friends Sailor Guardians, too?" Makoto asked Umi.

"Yep, your future selves passed your transformation items to us and we have Sailor Crystals," Umi verified.

"We're not anywhere as strong as you or Chibiusa, we're going to do our best to help," Amaya firmly stated.

"Of course, you will, but in the meantime, it looks like we'll have to train you more so we're ready for Paradius," Ami added.

"Thanks, mom… I mean, Ami," Daiki said. "I even brought some technology from the future for you to look at. Maybe you can help me build some things with them."

"Of course, but let's surprise Jianliang when we see him," Ami smiled in kind as she hugged Amaya and Daiki.

"Well, now we know Paradius is behind this Defiant mess, but we've yet to see Millenniummon and Sailor Charon. Where the hell could they be hiding this whole time?" Haruka wondered.

"That's a good question. We last saw them over a year ago when they warned us about the impending 'End of Days'," Michiru recalled the Paradius duo's final warning before disappearing.

"They won't hide forever. Even they must know that" Setsuna firmly said.

"Indeed, and when those cowards resurface, we'll be ready for them," Lupe said.

"So, Athena, can you turn into a Sailor Guardian?" Karin asked the future traveler.

"Yeah, so I'll do whatever I can to help, mom.."

Karin giggled and patted Athena's head. "Just call me Karin. I feel awkward being called anyone's 'mom'."

"Ok, Karin."

Taylor chimed in. "Ah, but as far as us Kuiper Guardians are concerned, you are the caring mother of our team."

"I suppose," Karin blushed.

"Is this all you've brought, Chibiusa?" Usagi asked her future daughter.

"Oh no, we came with another group. They're famous duelists from the future called the Signers."

"Future duelists? Oh boy, I have to know the kind of Duel Monster technology they developed!" Minako curiously wondered.

"More advanced than your time's dueling systems. They have these Duel Riding systems and challenge each other in Turbo Duels. They're exciting to watch! Fudo Yusei and Jack Atlas are the kings of games in the future!" Chibiusa pointed out.

"Where are they now?" Hotaru inquired.

"We went our separate ways after we landed here. I think they might be out looking for this time's duelist heroes."

Setsuna nodded. "In their time, they'd likely know about Muto Yugi and Yuki Judai. I'm certain they'll be looking for those two and their colleagues."

"I gave Yusei a communicator so we can keep in touch," Chibiusa said, showing off the communication apparatus in her hand.

"Good thinking, Chibiusa. Once he contacts you, let us know, ok?" Usagi said.

"Right."

"Despite all that's going on now, we're just glad to see you again, Chibiusa," Mamoru said like the loving father he is.

"Me, too, Mamo. I love all of you and want to see you're all ok. Hotaru, and Setsuna, looks like I'll be staying here for a little while."

(Cue Sailor Moon Crystal OST - Chibiusa and Hotaru)

Hotaru nodded. "I'm ok with that. We have so much catching up to do."

"Me, too! Oh, Setsuna, who's the handsome guy with you?"

Setsuna introduced Chibiusa to Lupe, who kindly bowed to the preadolescent princess.

"Your highness, I'm Lupe. I also go by John Smith."

Chibiusa genuinely smiled. "I'll call you Lupe then. Hey, I'm going to guess that you're not human, right?"

Upon hearing this, Lupe nervously chuckled. "Eh, how do you figure that?"

"Because Setsuna prefers mysterious guys who aren't from this world."

"Oh, princess, how could you insinuate me being like that?" Setsuna scoffed.

"Because I know you had a crush on my dad, Setsuna, but since he's with mom, you told me your ideal type of guy is the mysterious type who isn't normal."

Lupe chuckled at Setsuna's expense. "Hehe, she's got you there."

Scoffing aloud, Setsuna folded her arms. "I figured you'd forget all of that. However, you're right. Lupe is not normal. On the other hand, his unique nature draws me toward him."

"By the way, the Starlights are also on Earth. So, we'll have others to help us," Hotaru said.

"Not to mention other heroes. There's so much we have to show you and your friends, Chibiusa," Usagi added.

"I can't wait to meet them all!"

"Now, we have to figure out where some of us will be staying," VesVes said.

"We'll have to find a place close to where Princess Serenity is staying," JunJun asserted.

"Yep, and protect her when she needs us," PallaPalla nodded.

"Well, we know the other kids will be staying with their respective families at this time. I suppose there's a condo or somewhere we can rent. Who knows how long we'll be staying here?" CereCere suggested.

"Are you ok with staying with us, Athena? We have an extra bedroom for guests," Karin offered Athena.

"Thanks for the hospitality. Yeah, I'm going to need a lot of rest after two timestream trips."

"Hey, Athena. I'm glad you're here. It does feel like a family reunion even if you aren't born yet," Kensuke addressed the teenaged warrior.

"Thanks, uncle Ken. Whatever it takes, I want to help take down Paradius!"

"Don't worry all of us will get that chance," Dimitri reassured his future daughter.

"Come on, sweetie. Let's go. You look tired," Karin said, holding Athena's hand and walking her out the secret base.

"Gosh, it's hard to contemplate meeting future versions of your own children," Helena said.

"I do feel for her. The poor girl," Christina said, watching Karin and Dimitri accompanying Athena.

"We'll do what we can and train Athena. Are you guys with me?" Tyra asked the other Kuipers, who nodded in unison.

"Ok, everyone. We have more allies to help us fight this Defiant conflict and Paradius' inevitable return. In the meantime, we must stay vigilant and prepare for the worst. We have until next month to know what'll occur leading up to the End of Days. Whatever happens, we must survive and live to fight Paradius, one of them is also Chaos' current incarnation," Setsuna proposed. "This meeting is now adjourned."

With that, the Sailor Guardians and their families left the secret base. Once returning to their homes, they got plentiful rest before looking ahead for the challenges that lay ahead for them.

(End theme)

---

Ami and Jianliang's Apartment/Azabu-Jūban, Minato (麻布十番, 港区)/10:45 PM (JST)

After returning home, Jianliang and Terriermon were surprised by Amaya and Daiki's presence. When they revealed who they were, Jianliang and his floppy-eared partner were greatly taken aback. Ami walked in carrying a tray of tea and set it on a table.

"Ami, are you sure these two come from the future? And that they're our kids?"

Terriermon hopped on Amaya's shoulder and sniffed her. "Hmmm, I do smell Jianliang on her."

"Hi, Terriermon! You're still as cute and smart-alecky as I remember," Amaya giggled, itching the bottom of Terriermon's snout.

"Mmm, my favorite spot to itch besides my belly!"

"It's true, dad. We're from the future. Here, want proof?" Daiki said, handing Jianliang some pieces of future tech.

With careful inspection, Jianliang's eyes shot open. "...I can't seem to recognize the coding on these parts."

"They're tech from the 30th century. Don't worry, we know our stuff and we'll guide you along," Amaya said. "But, we were told not to overdo it and expose too much of our tech in this timeline."

"Yeah, or it'd pollute the temporal lines," Daiki added.

"That's understandable. As far as building future tech goes, keep that confined in our home here, ok?" Ami sternly demanded her future kids.

"Yes, mom," Amaya and Daiki replied, eliciting some giggling from their blue-haired mother.

"I'm happy to know I'll be a mother of two in the future. I know you two must be tired from that long trip."

"We can stay up a little longer. You want to know about our life in the future?" Amaya asked her.

"Please do," Jianliang smiled as he and Ami picked up their Longling tea.

(Cue Sailor Moon Eternal OST - Ami, Thoughts on Family)

As the kids picked up their tea, they told Ami and Jianliang about their Crystal Tokyo lives in detail. They are revealed to be fraternal twins and become renowned as child geniuses. Before they became preadolescents, the twins taught their fellow students and developed tech on their own. Despite their achievements, the twins, like any siblings, were driven by competition and tried to outdo each other, leading to them contesting to each other over games of 'can you top this?' Both even settle their sibling rivalry over Shogi games.

Despite their rivalry and developing bad habits of cussing each other out, the twins learned to respect each other's talents. Of the two, Amaya was the better strategist. Daiki was the mechanic. Amaya also revealed that she has a certain crush on a boy in her time. When she revealed it was Max Stromberg and Deimos's son, Ami, Jianliang, and Terriermon were taken aback.

"You mean one of those crows had a human kid?!" Terriermon blurted out.

"No, remember Deimos and Phobos' true forms are their human appearances," Ami reminded the floppy-eared Digimon.

"Whew, that's a relief. How did I forget that?"

"I guess I shouldn't be shocked since Phobos and Deimos are going out with those Stromberg boys," Ami said.

"Still, aren't you too young to be having a boyfriend, Amaya?" Jianliang asked her.

"We're all roughly 10-11 years old. We're not that intimate. It's just simple crushes," Amaya explained.

Daiki scoffed. "For now." When he said this, Amaya pinched his left foot hard. "Ow! Hey, quit it!"

"I'm not the only one. Koori's crush is Sam Stromberg and Phobos' future son."

"It's amazing how relationships among our peers will expand in the future. Rei's guardians becoming intimate with Lyn Stromberg-Kaiba's brothers is an interesting case," Ami mulled over while sipping her tea.

"I do wonder if you should be telling us all this. Wouldn't it have adverse effects on time?" Jianliang worried about their kids spilling too much about their futures.

"No, I don't think so. As long as we tamper with situations that would affect our existences," Amaya replied.

"Yeah, and we're not here to do that. We're here to help fight the bad guys," Daiki stated.

"Well, that's a relief, but I am glad to know I'll have two smart and wonderful kids," Ami said, hugging the twins.

Having heard their life stories, Ami and Jianliang became proud of their twins' achievements. They also vowed to keep Amaya and Daiki safe during these uncertain times with a Defiant war on the horizon.

---

Makoto and Junpei's Apartment/Azabu-Jūban, Minato (麻布十番, 港区)/10:50 PM (JST)

(Cue Sailor Moon Eternal OST - The Dream Makoto Wants to Fulfill)

When Junpei returned home, he expected Makoto to greet him. Instead, Umi surprised and pulled him into a powerful hug, which nearly broke his back in half.

"Be careful there, Umi sweetie. Your dad's kinda fragile. He's not used to our freakish strengths," Makoto playfully quipped while Umi let Junpei go.

"Wha…? Dad? Who is this kid?! She's smaller than me and she picked me up like nothing!" Junpei yelled while favoring his back.

"Sorry for that, dad, and so sorry this is sudden. I'm your and Makoto's daughter! Call me Shibayama-Kino Umi!"

After introducing herself, Umi told Makoto and Junpei about her Crystal Tokyo life. She informed them her name means 'sea', which was given to her by her father. She revealed Junpei decided on the name during a cruise while Makoto was still pregnant with Umi. Umi informed them that Queen Jupiter had the most beautiful gardens, even surpassing Crystal Tokyo's famous gardens. When Makoto showed Umi around her indoor and outdoor garden, the future girl became enamored with her mother's greenery.

"And it's thanks to Makoto's homegrown meals that my diet's gotten better. It wouldn't be possible without her plants," Junpei said.

While communicating with her plants, Makoto smiled. "They're telling me that they sense your love for them, Umi."

"I can tell," Umi nodded.

"So, you got any boyfriends, Umi? Junpei asked.

"Junpei?! Don't you think she's too young? I mean look at her," Makoto exclaimed.

"She's preadolescent, I mean."

Umi nodded. "No, the boys are usually kinda shy around me because I'm taller than most of them, but… I kinda have a crush on Ryuuhi."

"You mean Rei and Hiei's son?"

As he spat out his soup, Junpei balked. "Rei and Hiei's son?!"

Umi chuckled modestly. "Yeah, he's kinda cute, heheh."

Hearing this, Makoto leaned over and whispered to Umi. "Between the two of us, that boy is a cutie. He makes wearing black look cool and mysterious."

"Yeah, you definitely get it, mom!"

As Makoto and Umi clapped each other, Junpei played with his spoon.

"Pre-teens and their crushes. Man, even thousands of years into the future, nothing's changed."

(End theme)

---

Urameshi-Yukimura Household/Sarayashiki/11:14 PM (JST)

It was a baffling night for Yusuke and Keiko when RJ stopped by to visit them. Before introducing himself as their son, Yusuke already figured him out after confirming his scent.

"So, uh, I'm your son?" RJ blinked as Yusuke quickly pulled him into a headlock.

"Yeah, I can tell! You smell like me and Raizen!"

"Ow, ow, quit it, dad!" RJ punched Yusuke's ribs.

"Let him go, dumb Yusuke!" Keiko bopped the back of Yusuke's head with her slipper. After knocking her husband flat on his butt, she hugged RJ.

"Is it true?"

"Yeah, mom. I'm your son," RJ said. "I'm Raizen Jr., but my friends call me RJ."

As he watched mother and son embrace, Yusuke smiled over this revelation. After being welcomed into the household, RJ told them about his Crystal Tokyo life. He revealed that Yusuke had become a long reigning Makai king and helped bring long-term stability between the Living World and the Makai. RJ was given his birth name after his grandfather, who he has only heard about from Yusuke.

Vowing to honor his grandfather's name, RJ went on a quest to hone his demonic powers. Despite his mother wanting him to live a normal boy's life, RJ didn't want to disappoint his heritage. He had various masters train him, including Kurama, Hiei, Mukuro, Yomi, and the Avīci Queen Yasha. He learned various disciplines and techniques. However, he hadn't had time to hone everything while still trying to balance his normal life.

"You still got time, kiddo. Be a kid and grow up a little more! You got demon blood like me, so you can pick up on intense training later," Yusuke said.

"I know, but I just wanted to honor grandpa Raizen."

"Worry about being a kid first, RJ. Study hard and then you can play hard," Keiko said in a motherly tone, which struck RJ's heart.

"Yeah, I'll do that."

"So, are Keiko and I still together in the future?"

"Yeah, mom drank sacred water that extended her life and youth so she can stay with you and watch me grow up. And you're a pretty firm king, dad. You take no crap from anyone who tries to get you mad."

"Yep, sounds like I…"

Keiko finished Yusuke's sentence. "Haven't changed?"

"Heheh, I guess not."

"But, you are firmer and have matured as a person and a king. You and Neo-Queen Serenity have done a lot of good working together. I've even been granted permission to enter Crystal Tokyo and help safeguard Princess Serenity."

"Do you have anywhere to stay?" Keiko asked him.

"I was going to ask…" Before he could finish, Keiko hugged him.

"You're more than welcome to stay with us, sweetie."

Yusuke nodded. "And you can tell us more about the future."

"Maybe a little more, but not too much," RJ openly grinned while enjoying the warmth of Keiko's embrace.

---

Outside Kaiba Corporation/Domino City/11:30 PM (JST)

(Cue Yu-Gi-Oh! Bonds Beyond Time Unreleased OST - 3 Generations)

Standing out in front of Kaiba's main building, the Signers decided that the best way to get Domino City's attention was showing off their Signer Dragons. When they did reveal their dragons, every duelist within Yugi and Judai's groups noticed their decks coming to life in response to the Signer Dragons' presences.

Kaiba Seto, Lyn, and Mokuba were the first witnesses to the Signer Dragons When they came storming out of Kaiba Corp, they confronted the Signers. It wasn't long when Judai, Yugi, Asuka, Manjoume, Sho, Tyranno, Momoe, Junko, Rei, Jounouichi, Anzu, Honda, Bakura, Otogi, Mai, and Max & Sam Stromberg appeared in the vicinity.

Mesmerized by the presence of the Signer Dragons, Yugi, Judai, and Seto's monsters came to life first as they formed a circle around the mighty dragons. Stardust Dragon, Red Daemon's Dragon, Black Rose Dragon, Black-Feather Dragon, Ancient Fairy Dragon, and Life Stream Dragon were shown in full display as their presence marveled at everyone.

After introducing himself and the Signers, Yusei told them about being duelists from 1,000 years in the future and having arrived with future Sailor Guardians to warn them about Paradius' meddling with events that will escalate the ongoing Defiant conflict.

(End theme)

---

Paradius Dimension/December 2019

As the continued tensions arose between pro-heroes and Defiants, the ugliness of humanity was brought to light with riots and violence on the streets. These conflicts weren't exclusive in Japan. These coupled with Paradius' meddlings produced enough darkness to fuel the malevolent duo's projects. With help from CainCorp's scientific division, they were able to accelerate the cloning process of the Blood and Bizarro Guardians. Moreover, enough darkness fueled the three mysterious beasts and the Hino Rei clone.

(Cue Persona 5 OST 102 - Freedom and Security)

As the Prophet and Charon entered their chamber, they approached the 15 containers. As enough darkness fueled their containers, the glass chambers shattered. The Sailor Blood Guardians emerged first. All of them are seen garbed in black and darker colored Sailor garb, differentiating them from the Sailor Guardians.

The first of the Blood Guardians is a bright red-skinned, black-haired Tsukino Usagi. She was named Igasu the Blood Moon.

A cerulean-skinned, short blue-haired Mizuno Ami walked forward and methodically surveyed her new surroundings. She was named Ima the Blood Mercury.

A dark red-skinned, light purple-haired Hino Rei drew her first breath and deviously smiled. She was named Ier the Blood Mars.

An olive-skinned, reddish brown-haired Kino Makoto emerged and flexed her muscular physique. She was named Otokam the Blood Jupiter.

A light orange-skinned, golden-haired Aino Minako emerged striking a glamor model-like pose. She was named Okanim the Blood Venus.

A yellow-skinned, silver short-haired Tenou Haruka walked forward and crossed her arms. She was named Akurah the Blood Uranus.

An aqua-skinned, sea green-haired Kaiou Michiru stepped forward and brushed her wavy-curl-like hair. She was named Urihcim the Blood Neptune.

A light gray-skinned, dark blue-haired Meio Setsuna sauntered forward and eyed Sailor Charon. She was named Anustes the Blood Pluto.

A light purple-skinned, dark purple-haired Tomoe Hotaru walked out of her chamber. On her forehead is a black star, which looked like the one worn by Mistress 9. She was named Uratoh the Blood Saturn.

When the Blood Guardians approached the Paradius duo, they obediently bowed their heads for their new masters. Seeing Pluto's clone bowing to her, Charon was self-satisfied that some form of her sister became her willing slave.

"Paradius, we are here to fight on your behalf and destroy those Sailor Guardians," Igasu smiled evilly, shaking Charon's hand.

"No defects. You all came out perfectly and just as we imagined," Charon nodded, impressed with CainCorp's clone research developed by their science division. "Nonetheless, we gave them the Sailor Guardians' and Rajita blood samples to create them."

After the Blood Guardians assembled, the Kuiper Bizarro Guardians emerged from their chambers and bowed their heads. They are seen wearing the inverted colors of the Kuiper Belt Guardians' Sailor uniforms.

A pale-skinned white-haired Osaka Karin emerged and faced the Paradius duo. She was named Sailor Andes.

A long dark purple-haired Christina Denton walked forward and evilly smirked. She was named Sailor Sucro.

A tall, platinum blonde-haired Tyra Vanderbilt crossed her arms and grunted. She was named Sailor Anurav.

A green-haired, brown-skinned Helena Fernandez emerged and walked next to Sailor Anurav. She was named Sailor Raoauq.

A rose-haired, bright yellow-eyed Taylor West walked forward, doing a gun pose and pretending to shoot. She was named Sailor Sire.

A black-skinned, silver braided-haired Jami Waziri emerged with a stern look. She was named Sailor Noixi.

Sailor Andes opened up her arms and laughed. "Heheh, thank you for giving us life, Paradius! We, the Bizarro Guardians, are at your service!"

"Well done, Charon. It seems those Defiant scientists were more useful than we gave them credit for. These Blood and Bizarro Guardians are the perfect combinations of Sailor Guardian and Rajita warrior. Their powers should at least be comparable to the Sailor and Kuiper Belt Guardians," the Prophet deduced their clones' power.

"I suppose we'll find out once we see them in action," Charon added. "But, I expect they'll give the Sailor and Kuiper Belt Guardians a run for their money."

Suddenly, the chamber holding the other Hino Rei clone shattered, prematurely releasing its subject. As the container's stasis fluids spilled over the floor, the long dark-haired naked woman fell and coughed extra fluids from her mouth. As she struggled to stand, the woman opened her eyes, which were dull gray and devoid of life. When the clone reached for something to grab, she weakly collapsed.

Drawing the attention of the other Blood and Bizarro Guardians, the clone found herself surrounded. When Ier the Blood Mars bent over, she scoffed and seized the other Hino Rei's hair and dropped her face first.

"Why do you even need another clone of Sailor Mars when you have Ier?" Igasu asked her masters.

"Because this doll is destined for a greater purpose. Though, she wasn't due to come out this soon," Charon said, beckoning Ier away from the Rei clone. "Don't mind their discourteousness, my subject. Once enough darkness is harvested from humanity, your role will come into play just in time for the End of Days."

"Hmm, the portion of the Hōō we harvested from the old Rajita ship isn't strong enough to utilize yet. Yes, I agree we'll need an abundance of darkness amassed to birth our Yami Hōō," the Prophet said, eyeing the Rei clone aimlessly looking around and being helped up by Charon

"Here, let me get you a robe. You must be very cold, sweetie," Charon evilly chuckled, leading the clone away. "Anusets, accompany me." With that, Anuseta the Blood Pluto followed Charon and the Rei clone.

"She may be just a useless doll now, but her purpose will be fulfilled as the End of Days draws near," the Prophet said as he turned and faced the Blood & Bizarro Guardians. "In due time, you will be charged with dealing with the Sailor and Kuiper Guardians. Are you prepared to eliminate them?"

Bowing her head, Igasu wickedly smirked. "But, of course. We'll not only kill them but we'll take their places."

"Those posers are in for a rough time when they tangle with us," Andes chuckled evilly.

As the Blood and Bizarro Guardians interacted, Sailor Anurav saw Sailor Raoauq standing next to her. After making eye contact, they smiled and held each other's hands. Before they could exchange dialogue, they saw Akurah and Urihcim already making out and slipping each other slobbering tongues.

"Since we have Sailor Varuna and Quaoar's memories, that means our love for each other…" Anurav muttered.

"...is shared. Don't be shy. Kiss me, my love," Raoauq finished her partner's sentence as they leaned in and kissed each other.

"Man, I can't wait to twist Jupiter's scrawny head off!" Otokam punched her left fist into her right palm, vowing to use her physical strength to destroy Sailor Jupiter.

"Oh, you'll get your chance, musclehead. I can't wait to walk all over that bimbo Aino Minako," Okanim boasted, chortling.

"With their powers combined with Rajita attributes, I calculate our strengths should be superior to theirs," Ima said coolly and with self-assured confidence.

"Then, what are we waiting for? Why don't we play with them now?" Uratoh suggested.

"Your time will come, Blood and Bizarro Guardians. For now, lay low until we give the orders," the Prophet stated, watching them wander around the facility. "I know you can't resist wanting to kill the Sailor and Kuiper Belt Guardians, but I promise you'll get the chance to spill their blood."

"I hope so. I can't wait to put Tsukino Usagi in her place and make her watch me make out with her boyfriend," Igasu giggled while licking her chops at the thought of stealing Tuxedo Mask away from Sailor Moon.

(End theme)

Just then, Ier walked away, following Charon, Anustes, and the Rei clone. When the Blood Mars walked into Charon's quarters, she saw Charon putting a white robe on the Rei clone. Anustes was seen making tea for Charon.

"There, now do you feel less cold?" Charon asked the Rei clone as it aimlessly looked around. "Are you unable to speak yet?"

As it tried speaking, the clone blankly stared toward Ier.

(Cue Sailor Moon Eternal OST - Nehelenia's Ambition)

"Hmm? Oh, we have an unexpected guest," Charon noted. "Come in."

"Is she meant to become a vessel?" Ier questioned as she walked inside Charon's chamber.

"Yes, this doll will become the Yami Hōō's vessel. Once the essence we collected from the Hōō consolidates enough darkness, it will grant the doll power on par, no perhaps stronger than even the Hōō itself," Charon answered the Blood Guardian.

"Why not use me as the vessel?"

"Because we wanted a body more compatible with the Yami Hōō. Yours isn't quite suited for such a power."

Ier furrowed her brow. "And yet this weak lifeless doll can?"

"Trust me when I say it will be worth it, dear Ier. Tell me, do I sense envy from you? Are you jealous this other Hino Rei clone will receive preferential treatment?"

"Don't be ridiculous," Ier scoffed as she turned away. "I just figured you could've used me instead."

"Ah, you are jealous," Charon chortled, openly mocking the Blood Mars. As Anustes finished making the tea, she gave it to Charon, who sipped it and quickly spat it out. "What kind of tea is this?! This tastes like shit!" She tossed the teacup in Anustes' face. "Go make me another!"

"Y-yes, Lady Charon! As you command..!" Before Anustes could finish, Charon kicked her down and put her foot on Blood Pluto's head. "Please, Lady Charon! Forgive my incompetence!"

"Heheh, good that's what I like to hear," Charon relished every moment of torturing her sister's clone, and she knew this was the closest she'll ever have to turn Sailor Pluto into her unwilling slave.

Upon watching Anustes being tortured, Ier gulped and backed off without saying a word.

Just then, a visual screen pulled up, displaying a live feed of Hikawa Shrine. From a closer view, the video showed Hino Rei sitting and praying in front of her fire with Koori beside her. As her lifeless eyes stared at the visual, the Rei clone started to move on her own and raised her hands toward the screen. Ier saw this and turned toward the screen showing Rei with her future daughter.

"Well, look who it is. My inferior self," Ier snorted. "But, who's the child beside her?"

Sitting down in her observation chair, Charon answered. "That would be Hino Rei and Hiei's future daughter. Yes, looks like that brat from that far future we destroyed managed to contact Princess Serenity III and her cohorts from the 30th century. They've also brought along the Signers, future Duelists who utilize Turbo Cards. They've all arrived here not too long ago, but they're nothing we should be worried about now. We will eliminate them regardless."

"Then, grant me the task of killing Hino Rei and her family. I'd like to send them a message on our behalf. I can kill Sailor Mars and extract the whole Hōō for Paradius," Ier asked.

"Heheh, I know what you're truly after. You want to become the Hōō's container that badly?"

"I...No, of course not! I wish to bring it to you and Millenniummon!"

"Relax, I'm only teasing you, Ier. I'll tell you what. I won't let you go alone," Charon added. "Take a few of your fellow Blood Guardians with you. Have them on stand-by in case things fall apart. You'll have to be careful if you want to extract the Hōō. Better yet, take her with you as well." She evilly smirked, shifting her eyes toward the Rei clone. "She needs to get out and have some fresh air."

"Saddling me with the doll?"

"Do you want to confront Sailor Mars?"

Nodding, Ier bowed. "Yes, Lady Charon."

"Permission granted," Charon smiled as she snapped her fingers. "Now, go out and give me an explosive show!"

With that, Ier seized the Rei clone's arm and walked out of the chamber.

"Don't screw this up for me, you stupid doll," Ier scoffed irritably at the Rei clone.

Anustes cautiously approached Charon's side. "Shouldn't I go with her to ensure Ier's success?"

"No, because you still have to make me worthwhile tea. And besides, she'll already have enough back-up that there's no way she can fail," Charon chuckled as she switched the screen to a live feed of Setsuna talking with Lupe. "And you, Anustes, will get your chance to play with my dear sister when the time is right. Oh, it will be so entertaining!"

(End theme)

---

Meanwhile, the Prophet returned to his private quarters and was met by seven giant figures, who've been waiting for his return. As the hooded mastermind floated in the air, he shut his eyes while a Millenniummon-shaped black aura enveloped over him.

"Is this all of you?" The Prophet asked the seven figureheads. "Yes, you're all here. Splendid."

(Cue Digimon World: Next Order OST - #27 Today, Evil, Fear)

"Hohoho, yes and we've been waiting long, Millenniummon," chortled a giant figure with back-length blonde hair, icy blue eyes, a body with contrasting black and white features, and a face with androgynous features including dark lipstick. Then, a golden light formed all over the giant figurehead, altering his black and white form-fitting outfit into a white suit with gold and red embellishments. Sprouting from his back, 12 golden feathered wings radiated brilliantly, releasing a bright light that revealed the other six figureheads. "I must thank you for reviving me, but most of all, my six colleagues are pleased to see the light of day."

"It's my pleasure, Lucemon. No, correction. Lucemon X."

"I'm glad you remembered that I've evolved past the old Lucemon I used to be. Those insipid Legendary Warriors thought they could be rid of me that easily. Now, my desire for revenge goes beyond just the Legendary Warriors. Any Chosen who affiliates with them is my enemy, too," Lucemon X addressed. "Isn't that right, my six friends?" He glanced behind the other six insidious figureheads.

"Hello, Seven Sinful Rulers. Did you have a good sleep?" The Prophet queried, shifting toward the seven demonic figures.

As Lucemon X's golden light dispelled the darkness, the other six Sinful Rulers were revealed: Vamdemon X, GrandDracumon, DarkKnightmon X, Mephismon X, Death-X-mon, and Ogudomon X.

"Another chance at revenge on the Chosen Eight, and especially that traitorous Tailmon? And kill the ones who used their hopes and dreams to cleanse my powerful body away? I'll enjoy torturing them as I devour their souls," Vamdemon X maniacally laughed.

"I'm just happy to be summoned to wreak hell on humanity. The Chosen will come to fear me," GrandDracumon cackled.

"I will act as judge, juror, and executioner of the Chosen. And all of them will receive executions," DarkKnightmon X spoke in a calm and calculated manner.

"After we end the Chosen and fulfill my revenge against the Tamers, I will gladly torture their souls and force humanity to its knees," Mephismon X evilly added.

Death-X-mon and Ogudomon X responded with deep, monstrous roars. The other Sinful Rulers discerned their demonic language.

"Indeed, we're all in agreement that the Chosen must die," Lucemon X announced.

"With you aptly named the Seven Sinful Rulers, you represent the embodiment of my sins," the Prophet proclaimed, pivoting toward Lucemon X first. "Lucemon X, you represent Pride." Then, he shifted toward Vamdemon X and Mephismon X. "Vamdemon X, you represent Lust. Mephismon X, you are Sloth." He then faced GrandDracumon and Death-X-mon. "GrandDracumon, you are Envy. Death-X-mon, you represent Gluttony." Finally, he shifted over to DarkKnightmon X and Ogudomon X. "DarkKnightmon X, you are Greed. And Ogudomon X, you represent Wrath."

"Then, we graciously accept our sin titles, Millenniummon," Lucemon X chortled, taking a bow. "And these six have great promise of replacing my other Seven Demon Lord colleagues."

"Seven Sinful Rulers, you will not only help us kill the Chosen but help harvest the darkness that manifests from humanity. All to ensure the forthcoming End of Days and the end of the heroes," the hooded entity callously boasted. "For now though, remain on standby."

"For how much longer" queried Vamdemon X.

"I don't think I can wait any longer. Some of our patience wears thin," GrandDracumon scowled.

"Fear not, my colleagues. We will have our due and it will all be worth it. As humanity's darkness continues to feed us, our powers will increase tenfold with X-Antibodies, and with our enhanced powers we'll demoralize our foes," Lucemon X reassured his demonic colleagues. "With time, I will transcend all of our foes."

The Prophet added with a low chortle. "Heheh, you may even reach mine and Ancientmon's power. We shall see where your growth is concerned, Lucemon X."

"Yes, we will. For I shall become a transcendent being that rises above all!" boasted the prideful, golden-schemed Demon Lord.

(End theme)

---

Hikawa Shrine (氷川神社)/Azabu-Jūban, Minato (麻布十番, 港区)/9:30 PM (JST)

Having returned from a walk within the prefecture and seeing the sights, Hino Rei, Hiei, Koori, and Ryuuhi returned to the shrine to rest. When they returned, they saw Phobos and Deimos waiting for them in their human forms. After checking in with the crow women, Rei and the children entered to relax for the evening. Hiei went and ventured into the night to check for any suspicious activities.

"Grandpa, we're home," Rei chimed in as an old man walked out of the kitchen carrying a tray of tea and cookies.

"Yay! Cookies!" Koori happily cried out.

"Yay," Ryuuhi shrugged.

"Don't be like that, Ryuuhi. I know even half-demons have to have a sweet tooth for cookies," Rei said, picking up a cookie and biting into it. "Mmmm, see?"

"I like cookies, but I'm not going to act all giddy about it."

"Come on. Don't be a grump, Ryuuhi. Here," Koori handed him a strawberry cookie, which she dangled in his face.

"Huh, well I do like strawberry-flavored," Ryuuhi grabbed and hungrily munched on it.

"Has anything come up, grandpa?" Rei asked the older gentlemen.

"Nothing in particular. Thankfully, no Defiants have caused a scene around our area."

"Good, I just don't want anyone causing trouble near our property and harassing you."

"Don't worry, Rei. I'm fine."

Deeply sighing with relief, Rei nodded. "That's good. Well, we had a great time hanging out with the kids today. Didn't we, you two?" When she asked, they nodded together. "Now, time for some shut-eye, you two."

"Aww, can't we stay up a little longer?"

"No, sir. We have morning cleaning and lessons tomorrow," Rei waved her finger.

"I like mom's lessons, especially when we're performing prayers near the sacred fire."

"Yeah, I think I'll hang with Phobos and Deimos if that's the case," Ryuuhi scoffed.

"Oh boy," Rei sighed.

Later, Rei and the twins turned in for the night. Staying up longer to check around the shrine, Grandpa Hino closed the doors. He saw Phobos and Deimos, who turned back into crows, asleep in a tree. Before turning away, he noticed a figure dressed in a white robe aimlessly walking around outside. Taking notice of this unexpected visitor, he walked out to greet the person.

(Cue Sailor Moon Eternal OST - Rei Within the Mirror)

"Excuse me, but the shrine is closed. We're not open until tomorrow," the old man kindly said as he got no response. "Hello? Miss?" As he walked closer, his eyes widened when he saw the woman's face. "...Rei?" He saw the pale woman with lifeless eyes and his granddaughter's visage approach him. She reached for his face.

The Rei clone leaned on him and weakly muttered. "...grandpa?"

Before Grandpa Hino could mutter a word, an explosive blast crashed near them, throwing the old man and the Rei clone backward. As Grandpa Hino fell with the clone on top of him, he stared at another figure standing in front of a blazing inferno.

It was Ier the Blood Mars. A twisted and maniacal grin smeared across Blood Mars's face.

"Good evening, grandpa," the Blood Mars evilly giggled.

"...Rei… another one?"

"No, my name is Ier. I'm the one and only Hino Rei. That doll there is just an imperfection," Ier corrected the old man. As she approached him, the Blood Mars picked him up by the scruff of his neck. "Heheh, now that you've seen me, I can't let you live. Even if you are family to me."

"You… you're not my granddaughter…"

"No shit, old man. I'm better than her," Ier scoffed, forging flames in her fingertips. "Now, time to say goodnight and sweet dreams!"

"Goodnight and sweet dreams!" Rei interjected as a fiery arrow hurtled toward Ier, causing her to throw Grandpa Hino aside and nullify the arrow with a flame aura. As Ier looked ahead, she saw Rei holding a bow and arrow made of flames. At that moment, Rei instinctively turned into Sailor Mars and fired another arrow.

"So, the aloof shrine bitch has come out to play!" She faced Sailor Mars, who was then accompanied by Sailor Blue Mars and Ryuuhi. "Hmm? Another Sailor Guardian? Oh right, the bitch's future daughter. And that other kid is her future son. Or, so Charon tells me."

"Get off our shrine, whatever you are!" Sailor Mars sternly warned, preparing to shoot another flame arrow. "Koori, Ryuuhi, is your grandpa, ok?"

As Blue Mars and Ryuuhi checked over the older man, they nodded and confirmed.

"Thank god," Sailor Mars sighed, shifting her fierce gaze on Ier. Upon closer inspection, she saw a reflection of herself albeit with different colored skin and hair. "Wait, why do you look like me? Who sent you?!"

"Heh, wouldn't you like that to know?!" Ier screamed furiously as she flew at Mars, evading another fire arrow. As she tossed a pillar of flames at Mars, the Sailor Guardian formed a fiery construct that absorbed the fire blast. "I came here to kill you and take that flaming bird outta ya!"

Mars was taken aback. "What do you want with the Hōō?!"

"Oh, no reason. Maybe I wanna take her for a ride inside me!"

"She already denies you!"

"I guess we'll see when I try her on for size!" Ier cackled maniacally as she seized Mars' flame barrier and absorbed its power through her hands. "Mmm, thanks for the snack!" As she lunged toward Sailor Mars, Blue Mars unleashed a miniature flaming ice dragon that crashed into Ier.

After being pushed back by Blue Mars' attack, Ryuuhi landed a quick slash through her body. Having been sliced by Ryuuhi's sword, Ier self-regenerated her wound.

"What the hell?!" Ryuuhi cursed.

"Nice try, boy, but our bodies can recover from wounds," Ier quickly blasted Ryuuhi away with a fiery wave.

"Ryuuhi!" Blue Mars cried out. As she ran over to him, Ier attacked her. Forging an ice blade, she guarded herself against Ier's attacks.

"You're not quite bad, kid, but you're out of your league here!" Ier giggled as she shattered Blue Mars' ice dagger and kicked her away. As she turned toward Sailor Mars, she was met with a quick Mars Snake Fire that pushed her across the shrine property.

(Cue Sailor Moon Eternal OST - Mars Flame Sniper!)

"Lady Mars!" Deimos and Phobos called out as they landed beside Sailor Mars.

"Look after the kids and my grandpa. I'm settling this," Mars sternly ordered. With determination in her eyes, the fiery Sailor Guardian walked toward the Blood Mars. Along the way, she noticed the Rei clone still lying on the ground. Mars had a befuddled look. "Another me? What the hell is going on here?"

"You really wanna know? You can thank Paradius and the Defiant's work for this," Ier snickered, standing up while her body self-regenerated from Mars' fire snake attack.

Hearing the name of the perpetrators, Mars growled. "Paradius are responsible?!"

"Yep, and you can thank partly to humanity's darkness for giving us life, too. I swear humans harvest so much negative energy that it's fueled us with the desire to kill you."

"And what about her?" Mars eyed the Rei clone.

"A weak doll with no purpose but as a decoy. Who cares? This is between us, Hino Rei!" Ier exclaimed.

"Fine. Then, I'll have no issue purging you for endangering my family!" Mars declared, quickly turning into Eternal Sailor Mars.

With that, Eternal Mars and Ier clashed head-on. Intense flames erupted and surrounded the two fire warriors. Neither was willing to give up on the other. When Mars amassed a fiery cloak, she overpowered and repelled Ier. Then, when she fired her Mars Flame Sniper, Ier countered with one of her own. When the fire arrows collided and exploded, Mars and Ier got into a flurry of fiery punches and kicks. As their fight went on, Mars found out the hard way that Ier adapted to her moves and the Blood Guardian's self-regeneration proved to be problematic.

"See? I was made to be your superior! What'cha got left now, bitch?!" Ier taunted her.

"You want the Hōō? Be careful what you wish for!" Eternal Mars declared as her eyes turned red and the Hōō's cloak enveloped her, changing her outfit entirely. Once again donning her Hōō Mars appearance, the Sailor Guardian postured with arms wide open and her fierce red eyes glaring at the Blood Guardian.

With a psychotic and gleeful look on her face, Ier cackled. "Hell yes! Now, that's what I'm talking about!"

"Is this what you wanted?"

"Gimme your best shot!"

With a frown, Hōō Mars effortlessly put her hand out and in seconds, Ier felt an incredible force slammed into her and blew off half of her entire body.

Blinking dumbfoundedly for a moment, Ier screamed in pain. "AUGH! IT HURTS! IT FUCKING HURTS!"

Hōō Mars reservedly smiled. "I told you to be careful what you wish for."

Flying high into the air, Ier self-regenerated her missing half body and tossed a barrage of flaming blasts at Hōō Mars. Hōō Mars merely stood and absorbed all of her blasts.

"FUCKING SHRINE WHORE! I'LL KILL YOU!"

"You have such a filthy mouth. Are you sure you're my clone? Paradius and the Defiants really perverted my graceful and cool personality."

As Ier continued her assault on Hōō Mars, the Rei clone awoke to see the Hōō wielder standing her ground. Her lifeless eyes widened when she felt the Hōō's greater presence swelling inside Sailor Mars. Having become drawn to the Hōō's presence, the Rei clone crawled toward Hōō Mars, who prepared to finish off the Blood Guardian.

Forming a fiery wave to finish Ier, Hōō Mars readily tossed her attack until the Rei clone grabbed her from behind. Having been restrained by the doll, Hōō Mars struggled to break loose and used the cosmic bird's cloak to burn the clone. However, the doll had seemingly absorbed some of the Hōō's power and incorporated it into itself.

(Cue Sailor Moon Eternal OST - Zirconia's Nightmare Theater)

"Let me go!" Hōō Mars screamed as the Hōō's cloak repelled the clone.

As it lay on the ground twitching violently, the Rei clone's body became enveloped in a similar Hōō cloak. Having successfully incorporated some of the entity's powers into her, the doll rose and gained a Hōō cloak of its own.

"It absorbed the Hōō's power?!" Hōō Mars exclaimed.

"Yes, that doll has managed to take some of my power! It must be destroyed or else it'll learn to utilize my power!" The Hōō telepathically warned the Sailor Guardian.

"Hey, give that back!" Hōō Mars called out, firing a cosmic fire blast toward the Rei clone.

In that instance, the Rei doll's fiery cloak protected her from Hōō Mars's attack. Shocked by the turn of events, Hōō Mars's worst fears were realized. After absorbing just a portion of the Hōō's power, the doll immediately gained access to Hino Rei's full memories and powers.

"Well, well, the tables have certainly turned on ya," Ier snickered as she floated into the air and set her sights on Hikawa Shrine where Phobos, Deimos, Blue Mars, Ryuuhi, and Grandpa Hino were hiding. "So, how about we end things by blowing some shit up?!"

"No, don't!" Hōō Mars cried out as she flew up to intercept Ier, but someone grabbed her from behind. It was the Rei clone, whose eyes not only gained full life but she achieved full sentience.

"Going somewhere, dear Hino Rei?" The other Hōō Mars evilly smirked as she blasted Hōō Mars down. The flames that surrounded the doll converted into full-on black.

"No, black flames?!"

"That doll was created by Paradius' evil, so it makes sense my power would be perverted into such a manner!" The Hōō established a connection with her Sailor Guardian.

"Heheh, you'd be right, Hōō," the black Hōō Mars answered as if she telepathically listened to the Hōō's conversation. "With your power now a part of me, I can hear your conversations with Hino Rei. Moreover, I have gained Hino Rei's full memories and powers! The black flames that now resonate within me represent humanity's darkness, which has granted me this form. And thanks to the darkness, I've consumed the Hōō's flames to create my black flames!" As the black flames consumed her white robe, she gained a matching Hōō Mars outfit, but the colors are black, dark purple, and silver. "Heheh, yes. Now, I have become the Yami Hōō!"

"No, I won't let you get away!" Hōō Mars fiercely cried as she and Yami Hōō collided. As black and yellow cosmic flames erupted around them, the entire Hikawa Shrine shook under the pressure of their power struggle. After unleashing a shockwave that repelled Hōō Mars back, Yami Hōō turned toward Ier.

"Uhhh, hey, look. All those rude things I said about you… uh, no hard feelings?"

Yami Hōō evilly smirked and nodded. "Having gained this power, I'm in such a good mood, I'll let this one slide."

"Oh good, so what do you say?" Ier said as she eyed Hikawa Shrine.

"Yes, let us remove weak links. Hino Rei, I hope you're watching!" Yami Hōō called out.

"DON'T DO IT! KOORI, RYUUHI, PHOBOS, DEIMOS, GRANDPA!" Hōō Mars screamed as she fired cosmic flames to stop Ier and Yami Hōō.

However, it was too late. Ier and Yami Hōō unleashed an amassed fire blast that wiped Hikawa Shrine off the map. Having witnessed the destruction of her home and the loss of her loved ones, Hōō Mars' heart stopped beating for a few seconds and she lost her ability to scream. She dove toward the wreckage, scouring for her family. She tried sensing their life energies but she felt no signs of life.

(End theme)

"No… this… can't be… they can't be…" Hōō Mars weakly stammered, barely managing to speak. "YOU FUCKING KILLED THEM ALL! MY GRANDPA, MY CROWS, AND MY KIDS!"

"Heh, look at that. The bitch loses her family and now she's lost the will to do anything. Well, how about it? Wanna finish her off?" Ier asked Yami Hōō.

As she palmed her face, Yami Hōō gritted. "...no, this isn't nearly enough…"

"What?"

"I'm still not yet strong enough to beat her now… we've angered her enough that she'll destroy us both."

"But, you absorbed enough of the bitch's flaming chicken?"

"Not nearly enough. I need more."

"Then, go and absorb more of her pet birdie."

"Easier said than done," Yami Hōō scowled, eyeing Hōō Mars, who turned around sporting a bigger Hōō cloak. "And it seems they managed to survive."

"What?!"

Suddenly, Hōō Mars turned around and spotted Hiei laying Blue Mars, Ryuuhi, Phobos, and Deimos down.

(Cue Sailor Moon Eternal OST - The Four Are Back! Usagi and Chibiusa's Determination)

"Hiei! Oh thank god, they're ok!" Hōō Mars cried out as she checked in with her family. "Wait, where's grandpa? Hiei, where's my grandpa?"

Turning away, Hiei muttered. "Once I broke into the shrine, and just before the shrine was wiped out, he told me to save the kids and the crows, and to leave him behind. He told me to tell you, 'he loves you and is happy to see his grandchildren.'"

Having heard this, Hōō Mars' sobbed hard and buried her face in her hands. As Hōō Mars sank to her knees and mourned for her grandfather, Hiei immediately faced the intruders and drew his sword on the intruders.

Attacking Ier first, Hiei clashed with the Blood Guardian. Utilizing quick sword slashes, he cut off Ier's limbs and imbued black flames through his sword. He went and sliced Ier up with his Sword of the Darkness Flames. However, much to Hiei's dismay, the Blood Mars self-regenerated her limbs. As Hiei tried for his dark dragon, Ier stopped him before he could summon it and overwhelmed him with powerful flames that neutralized his demonic powers.

After mourning her loss, Hōō Mars ruthlessly attacked Ier and Yami Hōō. Unable to match Hōō Mars's furious blows, Yami Hōō wisely chose to retreat. Before Hōō Mars finished them off, the other Blood Guardians arrived to save Ier. In response to the attack at Hikawa Shrine, the Sailor Guardians, Tuxedo Mask, Lupe, Sailor Chibi Moon, the Sailor Quartet, the Sailor Starlights, the Time Thieves, and the future Guardians came to help. The group was shocked to meet the Blood Guardians and a dark Hōō Mars.

(Cue Sailor Moon Eternal OST - Uninvited Guest: Nehelenia's Curse)

Before another big battle could conceivably erupt, a black portal opened up behind the Blood Guardians and Yami Hōō. When the voice of Charon called them back, Sailor Pluto's face contorted with anger.

"Charon! Come out and face us, you coward!" Sailor Pluto demanded.

"Hehe, now isn't the time for our reunion, Temporal Hikikomori! I have what I need! Having observed Ier, I can reasonably conclude that the Blood Guardians are a success and have strengths comparable to yours. And it seems my precious doll managed to harvest some of the Hōō's power into herself and created a Yami Hōō. Of course, she still needs some adjustments, but that's ok. Yami Hōō, you are to return to me to complete your treatment. I have a Hōō piece with enough darkness that it'll make you stronger than Hino Rei!"

Having heard Charon's offer, Yami Hōō smirked. "Very well, I'll return. Anything to make me strong enough to destroy Hino Rei."

"The End of Days draws near, Sailor Guardians. Sailor Moon, I dearly hope you, your friends, and the Guardians from the future are prepared for the worst that's yet to come. But, can you prevent the Defiant War that will fuel the darkness that we're about to harvest?"

Sailor Moon faced the dark portal with determination. "We will stop the Defiant War. Paradius, we're ready for anything. Your creations destroyed my friend's beautiful home, we're not going to forget this. You just crossed the line!"

"Oh, but we've only just started, Tsukino Usagi!" Igasu giggled insidiously.

"And they know our identities. Fantastic. We'll have to be on guard at all times from now on," Sailor Venus sardonically muttered.

"Heheh, crossed the line? No, we're just getting past another tragic event leading to a series of more tragedies. Be ready for the worst that is yet to come!"

As the Blood Guardians and Yami Hōō jumped through the portal, Charon's laughter ceased.

(End theme)

"You fucking bitch!" Sailor Pluto snarled, causing Chibi Moon to worry for her friend.

"Pluto, you don't usually say harsh words like that," Chibi Moon muttered, shocked by Pluto's uncharacteristic and colorful dialogue.

"I… yes, forgive me, my princess," Pluto apologetically replied.

"No, I understand," the future princess nodded.

"Rei, I'm sorry," Sailor Venus approached Hōō Mars.

"Let's give her time to grieve here," Sailor Mercury suggested.

"Damn it, now we've got evil clones of us," Sailor Jupiter said with anger in her tone.

"Even worse, we have an evil Hōō user to worry about now," Sailor Ceres said.

"What the hell have Paradius and the Defiants been making we're not aware of?" Sailor Uranus wondered.

"Paradius has been completely out of our reach since relocating into another dimension. Not even my mirror can locate them," Sailor Neptune said.

"I know we must destroy those evil clones. No one can replace us," Sailor Saturn vowed.

"I'm appalled that Charon has the nerve to create a clone based on me," Sailor Pluto scoffed with disgust.

"Hey, are you ok, you two?" Battle Jupiter asked Blue Mars and Ryuuhi, who awoke.

When they heard about their grandfather's sacrifice, Blue Mars cried on Tamamo Venus' shoulder. Battle Jupiter sat beside Ryuuhi and consoled him.

"Sailor Moon?" Tuxedo Mask watched Moon standing beside Hōō Mars and pulling her into a tearful embrace.

"We're all here for you, Mars."

"Grandpa really loved Ryuuhi and Koori. He wanted to see me one day bearing them here."

"He'll be with you in spirit, Mars."

"Sailor Moon."

"His spirit hasn't completely gone away, right?"

"No, he'll be around to guide me. I swear on his behalf, I'll raise Koori and Ryuuhi well."

"I didn't want to leave him, but he told me, too. He wanted the rest of us to live on," Hiei stated.

Hearing her boyfriend's words tug at her heartstrings, Hōō Mars wiped her tears. "Thank you, Hiei."

"Let's focus on killing those two clones of yours," the demon reminded them of the ones responsible for the latest tragedy.

"Yeah, those two especially are in for a payback. They've made this personal," Hōō Mars openly vowed to destroy Ier and Yami Hōō.

"We shall make them pay for their crimes."

"Hey, Mars, do you and your family need a place to stay?" Sailor Venus offered. "Granted, it's a condo with just Kurama, Ai, and I, but we might have some room?"

"Thanks, we'll accept," Hōō Mars nodded. "It's such an inconvenience to be homeless now."

"We're always here to provide places to stay," Moon said. "Take advantage until you guys find your own place."

"Thankfully, I have enough funds to recover, but I'm not sure how long until we can rebuild Hikawa Shrine. I might have to ask my father if he can help."

"Whoa, is it raining cats and dogs? I think hell has just frozen over," Sailor Jupiter remarked.

"Sometimes you just have to get as much help as you can, even if it's from your estranged family members," Hōō Mars adamantly stated.

"Whatever works for you, I guess," Sailor Uranus added.

"But, we will rebound from this setback," Tuxedo Mask stated.

"We will, won't we?" Chibi Moon asked Sailor Pluto.

"Of course, we will, milady," Lupe answered on Pluto's behalf.

"It's just as Lupe says, my princess," Sailor Pluto smiled, concealing her inner contempt for Sailor Charon and Paradius.

"Let's get out of here. Rei, we'll leave you and your family to explain what happened here?" Sailor Moon asked her.

"Yeah, you guys go on," Hōō Mars nodded.

With that, as the Sailor Guardians and their cohorts departed, Rei and her family stayed behind to explain Hikawa Shrine property's sudden destruction.

---

December 2019/6:37 PM (JST)

(Cue Persona 5 OST - Suspicion)

In other events, Marty and Andrea continued their support for Taichi's goodwill and superhumans. They also helped lead the movement against Cain's Defiants.

During this conflict, they met a man named Dirk who once worked for Cain Bearer. In regards to the ongoing conflict, he was a neutral figure up to now. While he was cautious about allowing Digimon and superhumans to freely live in their society, he adamantly disagreed with Cain's extremist viewpoints and letting the Defiants run amok without consequences. After willingly cutting his ties with Cain, Dirk joined Marty and Andrea's side.

After joining Marty and Andrea, Dirk contacted his friend, Adora Frost, to meet with him to get her acquainted with Marty and Andrea. Dirk revealed that Adora is one of the International Tamers and could aid them against the anti-Digimon Defiants.

During an altercation with Defiants, Marty, Andrea, and Dirk were cornered and at the mercy of these hostile people. Before they could get gang attacked, Kotori and Himura, who were off duty, arrived and helped fight off the Defiants. However, when more Defiant reinforcements came, Betamon and BlackGabumon backed up Kotori and Himura. Finally, it took Adora and her partner, Volcanicdramon, to drive off the Defiants.

After the Defiants retreated, Adora reacquainted herself with Dirk, who then introduced his colleague to Marty and Andrea. Kotori, on the other hand, called out to Adora.

"Hey, Adora! Don't think I haven't forgotten about our partners' previous fight that ended in a draw!" Kotori barked.

Brushing her hair back, Adora scoffed with a hint of arrogance. "Hm, I haven't forgotten, but I'd rather not I or Volcanicdramon soil our hands in a pointless duel."

"Oh, you think you're better than us then?" Kotori snarled, getting right up into Adora.

"Easy, Kotori," Himura lightly shoved Kotori back from Adora.

"Yeah, c'mon, we're supposed to be on the same side here," Betamon pleaded.

"Kotori's not one to accept a draw. Dear me," BlackGabumon remarked.

As Volcanicdramon powered down, he turned back into his Child-level form Vorvomon. The black-scaled dragon apologetically bowed to Betamon and BlackGabumon.

"Please excuse us for dropping in like this," Vorvomon said.

"No, no, you're fine," Betamon replied.

"Yeah, I only have a beef with your partner," Kotori snarled toward Adora, who ignored her heated gaze.

During the Digimon's conversation, Betamon and Vorvomon interacted on good terms, unlike their human partners. Betamon revealed to Vorvomon that he was once the Dark Master MetalSeadramon. Vorvomon revealed to everyone's shock that he is Fafnir's reincarnation, the very same Fafnir from actual Norse Mythology. Upon hearing this, Kotori and Himura wondered if their Valkyrie friends, Brunhilde and Sigrun, knew Fafnir.

"I didn't know you two are acquainted," Dirk noted Kotori and Adora's stand-off.

"She's just my worthy rival. That's all, but she and her friends will make worthy allies for your cause," Adora firmly stated.

"Thank you all so much. We're going to need any kind of support to confront these Defiants. Their violent acts have been going unpunished and countless innocents are paying the price for their reckless behavior," Marty said.

"And it's all because of Cain Bearer's extremist platform. He's been spreading his terrible rhetoric throughout the media. It's about time we put a stop to that," Andrea stated.

"And what do you propose we do about it? Cain's got supporters and those SOUJA drones protecting him," Himura said.

"That's where I come in. I can sneak into CainCorp. My years of being a military brat and serving the US Air Force are about to pay off."

Marty nodded. "Andrea has experience with stealth, so she can sneak in without detection."

"And how's she going to get by his security drones?" Adora queried.

"I've made a fake CainCorp employee ID that'll let her infiltrate into CainCorp. It should be enough to grant her clearance and access to every section in the building."

"Oh, man. You're able to do that?" Kotori was taken aback. "Well, all I can say is be careful."

"Don't worry, I'll be ok," Andrea reassured them.

"By the way, I'm glad you came, Adora," Dirk approached his colleague.

"And I'm glad you quit CainCorp, Dirk. With all that's happening, I was getting worried," Adora said as she and Dirk briefly touched hands. They exchanged smiles and grasped each other's fingers.

"While I'm not sure about allowing superhumans to run amok in society, Cain's methods have become severe. I can't associate myself with an extremist."

"He made the right call. Now, we have someone who knows the inside of Cain's facility," Marty said. "He can help direct Andrea when she infiltrates CainCorp."

"Listen carefully, Andrea. It's paramount that you follow my instructions," Dirk firmly stated.

"No problem. Just tell me where I need to go."

---

8:45 PM (JST)

Later that night, Andrea used her fake CainCorp ID to access the building without issues. With Dirk talking to her through an earpiece, he guided her through the facility. After taking an elevator, he instructed her to go to his old office and grab some documents related to the SOUJA drones and a mysterious cloning project. When she flipped through the documents, Andrea noted signatures made by Victor Trask, Jeremiah Grand, and Cain Bearer.

The first document folder:

SOUJA Project

She verified that Trask was involved with the SOUJA sentries and drones, which were being built inside CainCorp and on an offsite factory in Alaska.

The second document folder:

Blood and Bizarro Guardian Project (REDACTED)

She then opened the file on the cloning project, which had little information, except a few mind-boggling details. She verified that blood samples were collected from the Sailor and Kuiper Belt Guardians, combining them with Rajita DNA to create clones. She noted paragraph details were removed, abridging the report down to a few sentences.

After taking pictures of the documents and sending them to her colleagues, she prepared to leave until she saw Cain talking with Jeremiah and Sharon. She quickly hid out of sight and reported everything she could find. Dirk asked her to infiltrate Cain's office. Initially hesitant to do so, Andrea waited for Cain to escort Jeremiah and Sharon out. With no security to get in her way, Andrea sneaked into Cain's office. She tried logging into Cain's computer. After Dirk gave her Cain's password, she accessed even more files. There, she discovered plans for a planned Defiant War this month. She saw images of Defiants being equipped with enhanced weapons and advanced SOUJA sentries being assembled for warfare.

(Cue Persona 5 OST - Blood of Villain)

Suddenly, she heard someone walk in. It was Grace, who caught Andrea accessing her boss's confidential work. She and Andrea had a brief scuffle, which ended with Andrea knocking her out with a vase. Before Andrea could leave, Sharon attacked her from behind. After crushing Andrea's earpiece, Charon cut off the Air Force veteran's communication with her colleagues.

As she transported Andrea into the Paradius dimension, Sharon revealed her true identity. Dismayed, Andrea warned that she already sent the secret documents to her friends. Undeterred, Sailor Charon expressed no concern and decided Andrea knew too much. Rather than kill Andrea, Charon filled the Air Force veteran's mind with darkness. Having manipulated Andrea, Charon decided she would be her pawn and destroy her friends from the inside.

(End theme)

---

10:56 PM (JST)

Elsewhere, as Defiant groups continued running amok and harassed Digimon & Duel Monster supporters, the Valkyrie Quintet (Brunhilde, Sigrun, Mist, Gondul, and Skogul), David, Alec, Taiyō, and Sudsakorn quietly observed the violent proceedings. Before the Valkyries could make a move, they saw Kotori, Himura, Adora, and their Digimon driving off the Defiant group.

After Kotori's group cleared the area, the Valkyrie Quintet and their lovers convened with the Digiteam. After checking in with Brunhilde, David, Sigrun, and Alec, Kotori and Himura introduced Adora to Valkyrie and their lovers. Once she got acquainted with the Valkyries, Mist interacted with Adora and Vorvomon. During the conversation, David felt a familiar presence from Vorvomon and approached the Digimon.

"Well, well, we meet again, Siegfried," Vorvomon acknowledged David by his past incarnation's identity.

"You're really Fafnir now?" David asked the small dragon Digimon.

"My, haven't you become cuter since we last saw you," Brunhilde said as she and the Valkyries surrounded Vorvomon.

"And you're all here, too, Valkyries of Asgard?" Vorvomon muttered.

"Some of us," Sigrun replied.

"Heheh, my how the mighty have become cuter," Mist picked up and glanced over Vorvomon.

"He is adorable for a dragon, isn't he?" Adora concurred with the Valkyries.

"I'm glad you're all ok, but it's getting dangerous out here," Kotori warned the Valkyries. "You probably already know Digimon aren't the only ones being targeted by these Defiants. Duel Monster are targets for harassment, too"

"I'm afraid it's going to get worse before it gets better," Himura said.

"Thanks, but you needn't worry. We've learned to blend in with Midgard," Brunhilde reassured them.

"Civilian clothing and names have been our saving grace," Sigrun added.

"I already checked in with Saya and Philippe. The Vampires are laying low and Bram is protecting Saya. Amazoness Princess took Philippe and Sasha to her Amazon village for safety. Who knows what else is going to happen next," Kotori said.

"Well, bad news. I just got word that the Defiants are intending to sever the Digital Realm from Earth," Adora regretfully informed.

"What?! But if they do that… But, Philippe and Sasha just relocated with the Amazons in the Digital Realm!" Himura exclaimed.

"Those two will be stuck there if that happens. There's no way we can let them try and close that link!" Kotori exclaimed.

"If they manage to get a hold of Yamaki or Kaiba Seto, they just might," Dirk said. "And it gets worse, I can't even reach Andrea anymore after her feed got sniped."

"Damn it. Why did she have to go alone?" Marty cursed under his breath.

"She insisted on going alone, Marty. Look, we will do everything we can to find her. I don't want to believe Cain is capable of committing heinous acts on Andrea. For all we know, she's probably locked up somewhere."

"I hope that's the case, Dirk. For your sake since you worked for that asshole."

"Listen, we should relocate just in case another Defiant group shows up," Sigrun insisted.

"Yeah, let's go someplace where no one can see us," Alec said.

"Fine, let's get going and plan our next moves accordingly and we'll hit CainCorp again to rescue Andrea," Marty stated as the group headed out of sight and relocated to an inconspicuous area.

---

Shinjuku, Tokyo (新宿区, 東京)/CainCorp/Cain Bearer's Office/December 16, 2019/10:30 AM (JST)

(Cue Two Steps From Hell - Blizzard)

Days passed with the planned Defiant War being set into motion. Cain and his team had his SOUJA and Defiants forces primed for war against the superpowered beings, including the heroes. Paradius had their cards in place with the Blood & Bizarro Guardians, the Seven Sinful Rulers, 'Psyren', and other unrevealed armies.

When Jeremiah and Sharon showed up in Cain's office, they showed him their Blood and Bizarro Guardians. Upon seeing the evil clones, Cain jumped out of his chair.

"What's the meaning of this? These clones resemble those Sailor Guardians."

"Yes, they do. Is there a problem, Mr. Bearer?" Jeremiah calmly queried.

"I never authorized this. When I said clones, I didn't ask for clones of the Sailor Guardians. You had my Defiant scientists work on them?"

"I hope this doesn't come off as a surprise, Mr. Bearer. Don't worry your team will be paid for their work."

"I'm not concerned with my scientists not getting paid. I'm concerned about them," Cain frowned, eyeing the Blood and Bizarro Guardians.

Sharon interjected. "With all due respect, Mr. Bearer, but the SOUJA drones won't be enough to eliminate all of your enemies, especially those Sailor Guardians and Digimon."

"I've already found the perfect Digimon to deal with Yagami Taichi and his colleagues," Jeremiah stated.

"And these clones have been created to be superior to the Sailor and Kuiper Belt Guardians. They surely cannot fail us. We used nanobots to collect blood samples from the Sailor Guardians and combined them with what Rajita DNA we had left."

"You've even been hiding Rajita samples?" Cain queried, cautiously raising concerns over this revelation.

"Remember the SOUJA core your team found? We asked if we could take some samples from it for our research?" Sharon reminded him.

"Yes, I distinctly remember you saying that, and this is the result?"

"To fight superpowered beings, you must have some of your own on deck," Jeremiah manipulated Cain, who turned and faced his window, laying his sights over a city that was set to see a war between heroes and Defiants. "There's no going back now, Mr. Bearer. We have our Defiant War set into motion."

As Sharon approached Cain, Grace stood in her way.

"Mr. Bearer, don't you still want to find your late wife's murderer? That one who looked like a Sailor Guardian?" Sharon asked Cain, who visibly shook from her mentioning his beloved.

"Mei…"

"Yes, this war might even lure that coward out of hiding after all these years. You have a chance to avenge your beloved Mei and send that dark Sailor Guardian to hell where she belongs."

Every word from Sharon affected Cain.

"And how can you be sure that creature will come out of the shadows?"

Jeremiah smirked. "We have every reason to believe so. She's likely seen your broadcasts and once she sees that a war has broken out, she will come and participate. Maybe she'll find the Sailor Guardians. You'll have the opportunity to end her loathsome existence." As he said this, Sharon concealed her wicked smile.

"So, will you authorize us to utilize the Blood and Bizarro Guardians to fight on our behalf? Perhaps after they've finished the Sailor and Kuiper Guardians, they can hunt down that coward?"

After hearing every word from the Paradius duo, they enticed him to accept their proposition. Grace tried consoling and talking him out of going forward with the Defiant War. However, Cain gave his authorization.

"Thank you, Mr. Bearer. You will not regret this," Jeremiah bowed. "The Defiant War shall commence at 16:30 hours on December 19, 2019."

Sharon muttered. "Just two days before the next phase on the 21st… the End of Days."

"Mr. Bearer. I can assure you that'll eliminate the Sailor Guardians and find your wife's killer. That we can promise you," Igasu the Blood Moon gave her word to him.

"Don't fail me," Cain sternly muttered.

"So, why don't you show us your SOUJA drones?" Jeremiah asked as Cain presented a live feed of Trask's team finishing the last line of SOUJA sentries, including some humanoid armored suits developed for volunteer Defiants. "Well done. They've all been tested and finalized for the war?"

"They have and will be authorized for use in the Defiant War."

"Excellent, we look forward to seeing them in play," the Paradius CEO held back his laughter behind a devious grin.

"Then, let us propose the success of our wonderful alliance," Sharon raised a wine glass.

"Yes, and to the culmination leading to the Defiant War," Jeremiah lifted his glass.

"You mean our Defiant War," Cain interjected with a smirk, raising his wine glass toward the Paradius duo.

Watching her boss and the Paradius figureheads tap each other's glasses, Grace turned away and headed out the door. As she opened the door, Andrea stood in her way.

"Please stay with us," Andrea muttered, her eyes brimming with black energy. Now under Charon's influence, Andrea pushed Grace inside and closed the door.

"That woman… but she…" Before Grace could finish, Jeremiah offered her a hand.

"Please join us, Ms. Groves. We're in this together."

Furrowing her brow, Grace stood and stayed in a corner of the room.

"Be nice, Grace. We're about to see the end of all superpowered beings," Cain said as the Paradius duo smiled insidiously behind his back where only Grace could see their true sinister faces.

"Is this right?"

"Of course. Don't tell me you're backing out of this now?"

"No, but those two…"

"Are my biggest assets in getting rid of those superhuman pestilences and bringing justice to Mei's death. I'm so close to finding her killer. I can't let this opportunity slip now."

"But, is it worth getting rid of all the heroes and their ilk, Cain?"

"Is that anyway my secretary and bodyguard... no, an adoptive daughter of mine talks to their father?"

Before Grace could retort, Cain sat her down.

"We'll discuss this later."

As Cain returned to delve into more discussions with the Paradius duo, Grace maintained a vigilant gaze on them.

(End theme)

---

Paradius Dimension/December 19, 2019

The day finally arrived. The Defiant War would be set to commence at exactly 16:30 hours. The Prophet and Sailor Charon returned and reconvened with their subjects. Among those present: the Blood Guardians, the Bizarro Guardians, Psyren, the Seven Sinful Rulers, the mind-controlled Andrea, and a massive Digimon army.

Turning over toward their left, the Paradius duo eyed the three 20-foot tall containers, which were already broken. The subjects inside the containers emerged from an obscure side of the room. The three subjects were revealed: the three revived Rajita Warlords Ghidorah, Gamera, and Gyaos. The three were given codenames: Leviathan, Behemoth, and Ziz.

Also sitting in a corner where the three cloned Warlords' containers were, Yami Hōō was placed back in stasis. The Hōō piece that Charon kept was also inside while Yami Hōō's body absorbed its energies, which would complete her power.

"The Rajita Warlord clones and Yami Hōō shall remain here until the time is right to send them into battle," the Prophet requested.

"Fine, we have more than enough here to last us through the Defiant War," Charon meticulously eyed their Paradius army. "And with those Signers here, we have a big surprise for them and the Duelists, won't we?"

"Indeed, but we shall save them until the End of Days," the Prophet said. He then faced the Paradius army and rallied them. "Now, onward! Let us commence with the Defiant War!"

---

?-?

Elsewhere, Ryō, Alice & Dobermon, and Dorothel were summoned by a divine being. They faced a golden-armored being with gold orbs rotating around it.

"Lord Shakamon, you want to send these two Digimon to find and partner with Wallace's girlfriends?" Ryō queried to the golden-armored being, who nodded.

Then, as it expelled a golden ray, the bright light revealed the two aforementioned Digimon. Taken aback by Shakamon's choice Digimon, Ryō identified them.

"Valdurmon and Mitamamon?" Ryō said while Alice, Dobermon, and Dorothel saw a divine white bird with six wings and a divine golden beast with a lavender mane.

"Take them where they need to be, Akiyama Ryō. They have been reincarnated from the two humans who used to be the original Digidestined," Shakamon spoke in an ambiguous tone.

"As you wish, Lord Shakamon. We shall go. Time to stop this Defiant War, and find Millenniummon and Chaos," Ryō bowed.

---

Part I concludes

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Next arc: The Defiant Chaos, Part II

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A/N: And of course, this story ends just when the Defiant War gets started and just when it looks like Wallace's girlfriends get their Digimon partners.

The chapter kicks off with Cain's opening monologue telling about his life story and his broken relations with superpowered heroes and entities. Once a boy with high aspirations and love for heroics, the man grew cynical and dwelled on revenge after a Sailor Guardian-like creature took away the love of his life. All he needed was someone (the Paradius duo) to give him the resources and the platform to strike back against superpowered entities and find the one who murdered his wife Mei.

Besides gaining Defiant followers, Cain's science division (coupled with Paradius' resources) extracted the SOUJA core from a Rajita ship and used it to mass produce an assembly of SOUJA sentries and drones. Outside of sentries, suits have been made for Defiants to use. Think of these like Sentinels, Ultron Sentries, and Iron Man suits. With a mind of its own, the SOUJA core may play a big role during the Defiant War.

Then, we have the Blood and Bizarro Guardians. Created from the combination of the Sailor Guardians' blood and Rajita DNA (likely from Ghidorah's remains), these clones will be the main opponents for the Sailors in the Defiant War. If that wasn't enough, we also have Yami Hōō, quite possibly the Sailor Guardian's worst nightmare, and the revived Rajita warlords.

And there's the Seven Sinful Rulers, who're being led by Lucemon, and 'Psyren'. The Digiteams are going to have a lot to deal with. As for Psyren, we see her as a simple but mysterious assassin for hire. Then, she's solely responsible for almost assassinating Taichi and sowing the seeds of anarchy, which has helped create enough darkness for the Paradius duo to enhance their subjects. And then, there's the 'spicy' scene with Psyren and her client. That ends up exposing Psyren's nature. Anyone who's been with Digimon for this long should get the hint on who Psyren is.

This chapter also introduces a lot of new characters: Chibiusa, the 'Neo' Sailor Guardians, the Sailor Quartet, Athena, the Signers, Mochizuki Meiko, Wallace & his Digimon, the other Adventure/02 Digidestined, Nadeshiko & Hitsuki, Marty, Andrea, Dirk, Adora & Vorvomon, Lien, and Ronx. Athena served a crucial role in warning Chibiusa and her team about Paradius' time meddling. Then, they go to the past to meet with the Sailor Guardians. And yes this leads to some cute and heartwarming interactions with the future kids and their parents.

Yes, I know the Signers (and the Duelists in general) hardly have dialogue in this chapter, but they'll have some moments (but not a lot in battle scenes) in the Defiant War. I'm definitely not missing an opportunity to have Yugi, Judai, and Yusei in awesome moments together! This chapter at least focused on the Sailor Moon and Digimon aspects.

Speaking of Digimon, this chapter showed a big Odaiba Reunion with the Adventure and 02 Digidestined. Starting now, Taichi has been firmly established as one of the primary characters of Shin-YYGDM. This will also bridge that gap between his character in Kizuna and ultimately becoming the Digital World ambassador. Before, he and a few others (mostly he and Yamato) had an active role in uniting the Digiteams and fighting in some of the battles. The Digidestined had minimal roles before. Now starting with this chapter, the Adventure/02 Digidestined are going to be active participants in the final arc. Wallace from Hurricane Showdown! The Golden Digimentals is among them, and he & his girlfriends are going to have active roles in this final arc.

Other tidbits: It took me since July to write this chapter. The cold opening/Cain's POV was the first scene written before delving into the other scenes. Marty, Andrea, and Dirk's roles were undecided until my friend and I went with Marty and Andrea being supporters for superpowered beings and Digimon rights. Dirk, of course, would be an ex-CainCorp employee. Lien and Ronx serve to remind readers that the Rajita weren't all inherently evil. Those two now help liberate civilizations that the previous Rajita warlords conquered. The other Rei clone was originally intended to show up late in this chapter and become Yami Hōō in Part 3, but I introduced Yami Hōō earlier for a big shock factor and leave a lasting impression for the readers, especially with her helping Ier destroy Hikawa Shrine and killing Mars' grandfather. And this will build to Hōō Mars facing the psychopathic black-flamed bird woman in the final part. RJ, Ryuuhi, and Daiki weren't originally intended to be in this story, but I opted to put them in the story during the writing process.

The last scene shows where Ryō, Alice, and Dorothel have been lately. They've been paying visits to the Digigods. The latest visit with Shakamon has the deity lending Valdurmon and Mitamamon for Wallace's girlfriends Nadeshiko and Hitsuki. Shakamon did hint these two Digimon are reincarnations of two Digidestined. Intriguing revelations we have here.

It starts. December 19, 2019 is upon our heroes. Two days before Paradius' End of Days event. The Defiant War is here.

Part II is set for a late-2021 release. I'd imagine it'll be closer to the holidays. I know for sure the final part won't be out until early-2022.

Until then, please leave a comment and a review.

Later, readers!