A/N: Sorry for the month delay. I've had a very busy October, including writing and finishing the final chapter for Cross Generations (only the epilogue chapter remains). But, I'm going to finish what I started with this arc.
After this chapter, any and all Wrath of the Defiant tie-in will not be updated in Gaiden. I'm reserving that for a prequel tie-in story titled Prelude to the Defiants. Every chapter and arc like this will be reposted in that story, but for the foreseeable future any future tie-in related to Defiants will be posted in PttD.
From this point on, Gaiden will be reserved for miscellaneous stories and one-shots. And with my writing workload shifting towards heavily to Urban Legends (a Persona 5/Code Vein-centric crossover) and my first novel, Gaiden will be a low priority. Once Defiants ends, Gaiden will shut down and end. And honestly, it's for the best.
Anyway, time to wrap up this arc. It's go time as the Senshi and their Amazon selves confront Yami Houou!Hiroaki and the Blood Senshi.
Enjoy!
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Sins of a Father, Part IV: Blood Thicker Than Fire
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Azabu-Jūban District (麻布十番区)/Azabu-Jūban Park (麻布十番公園)/9:35 PM
(Cue Fate/Zero OST - Back to the Wall)
The Blood Senshi quickly made short work of the Neo Senshi and Moonlight Knight. The Spirit Detectives, the Duelists, and Tuxedo Kamen still fought an arduous battle against Yami Houou Hiroaki.
Igasu picked up Neo Moon by her long twin-tails and effortlessly lifted her up. The Blood Moon stared into Neo Moon's defiant eyes and taunted her.
"Awww, you still have some fight left in ya?" Igasu chortled as she headbutted Neo Moon's forehead several times. Her headbutts opened up a bruise that formed on Neo Moon's forehead. "Give it up. We've seriously kicked your butts."
Neo Moon retorted against Usagi's evil clone. "...we're not beaten yet!" She drove a knee into Igasu's face, knocking her back.
Once Neo Moon stunned Igasu, she summoned Pegasus, who flew out of a portal and pierced Igasu's right shoulder with his horn. Pegasus fiercely pushed Igasu away and fired a golden horn beam at her.
"Thanks, Pegasus…" Neo Moon panted and mounted the white pegacorn's back.
RJ rushed Anustes. As the Blood Pluto went for a frontal attack, RJ phased out. Throwing Anustes off, he reappeared under Anustes and hit her with a Shotgun blast into her gut. Combining spirit and demon energies, he sent the Blood Pluto flying far back.
"Mess a hair on Usa's head and your ass is dead!" RJ harshly snapped.
"I'm ok now, RJ!" Neo Moon called out from above while riding Pegasus.
Shifting his focus off the Detectives and Duelists, Yami Houou Hiroaki sneered and launched a fiery blast at Pegasus' back. Pegasus neighed in pain.
"Pegasus!" Cried out Neo Moon.
"You bastard!" Tuxedo Kamen roared as he transformed into Norse Knight. He brandished a sword and slashed at Yami Houou Hiroaki, who protected himself from Norse Knight's blade.
Yusuke, Kuwabara, Hiei, and Kurama jumped in to aid Norse Knight. As Yusuke readied a Spirit Gun, Yami Houou Hiroaki effortlessly unleashed dark flames. In response to the Yami Houou wielder's attack, Yugi invoked Magical Hats, summoning large magic hats that concealed the Detectives and Norse Knight. Yami Houou Hiroaki wiped all but one magical hat. The Detectives and Norse Knight popped out of the sole hat.
Yami Houou Hiroaki scoffed irritably. "Don't toy with US! WE will end this fast!" He shot out multiple black flames at his adversaries.
"Move!" Yugi yelled out as he, Jaden, Seto, and Lyn evaded the black flamed blasts.
"That was close!" Jaden cried out as Yubel materialized next to him.
"Don't take your eye off him, Jaden! Even my power alone is not a match against his!" Yubel telepathically warned her Duelist vessel.
"But, if we combine our powers…" Jaden concentrated as he merged Yubel's consciousness with his. His eyes glowed with Yubel's. Upon invoking Yubel's power, Jaden channeled his attacks on Yami Houou Hiroaki.
As Yami Houou Hiroaki turned, Jaden's blasts collided with him. The Yami Houou folded black wings to protect itself and its host.
"His power is nothing to scoff at, but it's nothing that WE can't handle!" Yami Houou Hiroaki roared as he fired a black flamed wave that repelled Jaden.
As Seto and Lyn turned into Blue-Eyes White Dragons, Yami Houou Hiroaki unleashed flames that neutralized the dragons.
"Is there anything any of you can do to make US sweat?! What the hell is taking Hiroaki's daughter and her friends so long to get here?!" Yami Houou Hiroaki bellowed, seemingly growing irked by the lack of threats to his life. Pushing both hands out, he released his black phoenix aura and launched black flames at his adversaries.
The Spirit Detectives, the Duelists, and Norse Knight dodged the black flames raining down on them. Hiei even summoned his black flames to absorb Yami Houou's, but Ier the Blood Mars intervened and threw a fiery arrow into his back. After quickly felling the demon swordsman, Ier neutralized him with flames.
"HIEI!" Kurama called out. As he flung a thorned whip at Ier, Otokam the Blood Jupiter unleashed a torrent of violet flower petals that sliced apart his whip.
"Great, they've managed to beat our friends!" Jaden scanned the Blood Senshi walking toward them.
"Dad!" Blue Mars and Ryuuhi cried out as they hurried over to save Hiei.
In response to Hino siblings' intervention, Ier fired a barrage of fiery arrows and held them at bay.
"You leave my friends alone, bitch!" RJ readied a Spirit Gun shot at Ier.
Just then, Igasu phased in front of RJ and kicked him back.
"No, RJ!" Neo Moon cried out, picking herself up to fight Igasu again.
"Oh, you want another at me, pink rabbit?!" Igasu chortled. She rushed Neo Moon and converted her right hand into a long blade. "I'll gut you and make your skin my pelt!"
Neo Moon fiercely glared down Igasu and readied her scepter for battle.
(End theme)
Whoosh! Bam!
Just then, Igasu felt her face contort as she was knocked away by an immense force. Everyone witnessed Sailor Moon fly out of a portal and kick Igasu square in her face. Sailor Moon's kick packed enough force to knock Igasu far back.
"SAILOR MOON!" Nearly every hero yelled out in unison.
"Glad you came…" Neo Moon muttered, dropping to her knees and sighing with relief.
"Mom!" Blue Mars and Ryuuhi shouted together as Sailor Mars emerged alongside the other Senshi.
(Cue Sailor Moon Crystal OST - A Fierce Battle with the Witches)
Following the Sailor Senshi, the Amazoness Senshi, Amazoness Swordswoman, Amazoness Queen, and Buster Blader came carrying some Polymerization Stones.
"We're here, too!" Sely announced, carrying a Polymerization Stone under her left pit.
"Sorry to keep y'all waiting! We came bearing gifts and some friends to help!" Sailor Venus announced. She forced Okanim away from Sailor Summoner Venus and Rio. "Are you two ok?!"
"Better late than never, babe," Rio nodded to Venus.
Saving their daughters and husbands, Sailor Mercury and Sailor Jupiter fended off Otokam and Ima.
Sailor Mars charged at Ier and blasted her away with a Mars Snake Fire. While this didn't destroy her Blood Senshi clone, it was enough to drive Ier away from her family. Mars checked on her future kids. She then tossed an Ofuda to neutralize Hiei's flame bindings. Hiei was quickly freed.
"Neo Moon, are you ok?" Sailor Pluto checked on the future princess.
"We are now thanks to you, Sailor Moon, and the others," Neo Moon genuinely smiled. She turned and noticed Hadey. "Oh, it's you. You're Pluto's Amazon-look-alike."
Small Lady, how you've grown. At least I can see you like this in another world. Hadey internally and proudly noted.
"Ok, why am I seeing a group of Amazon ladies who look like Sailor Moon and her friends?!" Kuwabara blinked at the Amazoness Senshi.
"So, these are the Amazon counterparts we've heard so much about," Yugi noted the Amazoness Senshi.
"Don't mind me asking but, what are those stones you're carrying?" Norse Knight asked Sely.
"These? They're Polymerization Stones."
"Polymerization Stones?" Jaden blinked twice. "Whoa, they really exist?!"
"You've heard about them, Jaden?" Yugi asked the former Academy student.
"While I was in the Duel Monster world for a bit, I heard rumblings of magic stones being some kind of source that created the Polymerization Stones. I always thought they were just some fairy tale."
"Do fairy tales do this?" Sely raised her Polymerization Stone. "Are you ready, Lady Swordswoman and Queen?!"
As the two Amazons nodded, Sely invoked the stone as it released mystic energies that fused the two warriors into Amazoness Empress.
"Incredible! So, they are Polymerization Stones!" Yugi exclaimed.
"Let us fight and slay these abominations!" Amazoness Empress boldly declared.
Witnessing these latest developments, Yami Houou Hiroaki chuckled darkly.
"Well, things sure have gotten intriguing. Not only did they bring reinforcements, but some magic stones that fuse individuals? Well, doesn't matter…" Yami Houou Hiroaki veered his focus primarily on Sailor Mars, who turned her sights onto him. "...yes, I can sense your hatred for US, Rei Hino!"
Cammy reconvened with Mars. "Rei, need back-up handling Yami Houou and father?"
"Go and tend to Shingo. I've got this," Sailor Mars gritted as rings of fire burst out and engulfed her. "We're ready whenever you are, Yami Houou!"
Yami Houou Hiroaki smirked coolly. "By all means…" He beckoned her to come to him.
Upon invoking the Houou, the cosmic entity's flames enveloped Sailor Mars and turned her into Houou Mars. Houou Mars hastily shot up and went after Yami Houou Hiroaki. The Houou wielders took to the air to engage quick draw fire attacks. Yami Houou Hiroaki amassed fiery black spheres and tossed them. Houou Mars intercepted and nullified his black flamed attacks.
"Hehehe, not bad! But let's see you keep up with US!" Yami Houou Hiroaki unleashed a black fire wave.
Houou Mars stopped his wave with her own burst of cosmic flames.
Meanwhile, Amazoness Empress slashed at and engaged Igasu. Igasu countered with an arm blade. Sailor Moon and Sely rushed in to help Empress. Igasu delivered a quick slash strike, knocking Empress back. Sely hopped in and caught Empress. Moon shifted into Dai-Valkyrie mode and kicked Igasu away.
"Is that the best you've got, Sailor Moon?!" Igasu cackled as she and Dai-Valkyrie Moon crossed blades.
Sailor Saturn intervened on Moonlight Knight, Daiki, and Psyche's behalf. She stopped Uratoh the Blood Saturn from finishing the trio. Cammy jumped in to save Moonlight Knight.
"Shingo?" Cammy checked on him.
"I'm ok now thanks to Saturn."
"Yeah, thanks for the save, Saturn!" Daiki called out.
Sailor Saturn swung her Silence Glaive, which was countered by Uratoh's scythe. While Saturn kept Uratoh occupied, Crony jumped Uratoh from behind and shoved her own scythe through the Blood Saturn's chest. Uratoh knocked Crony away and pulled the Amazon's scythe from her chest. Saturn shifted into Dai-Valkyrie form and blasted Uratoh back.
Sailor Uranus and Sailor Neptune fought off Akurah and Urihcim. This allowed Sailor Ceres and her team time to recover. Ourany and Poseidy checked on the Sailor Quartet.
"Will you all be ok?" Poseidy asked them.
"We will now thanks to Uranus and Neptune," Sailor Ceres stated.
"Say, you two look just like Uranus and Neptune, y'know!" Sailor Juno pointed out the similarities.
"Except y'all got beach bodies!" Sailor Pallas assessed Ourany and Poseidy's toned bodies underneath their battle armors.
"Heads up!" Sailor Vesta shouted as Sailor Uranus kicked Akurah toward them.
The Sailor Quartet took cover as Akurah flying right over and past them.
"Hey, watch it!" Sailor Ceres called out.
(End theme)
Hermy took out a Polymerization Stone. "I think it's about time we put these to good use, Mercury."
"Might as well. Let's do it!" Sailor Mercury nodded.
(Cue Sailor Moon Crystal OST - Sailor Venus Theme)
With that, Hermy activated her Polymerization Stone. She and Sailor Mercury touched the stone in similar fashion like Venus and Aphy before them. A bright flash of light came out of the stone and engulfed them. Sailor Mercury and Hermy were then fused together. Sailor Mercury was the only one standing in their place.
Mercury examined herself. So, it's as Venus described it. I can sense Hermy's presence within me. I can feel a boost of power coursing through me. "Well, here goes!" With that, she turned into a Dai-Valkyrie and flew right at Ima the Blood Mercury.
"You want some of this, Mercury?!" Ima hissed as she amassed an acidic ball and tossed it at Dai-Valkyrie Mercury.
Dai-Valkyrie Mercury quickly phased out, letting the acidic ball splatter and eat the earth. Taken aback by her opponent's newfound speed, Ima scanned her surroundings. Dai-Valkyrie Mercury reappeared next to her.
"Ahem, over me, you brutish abomination," Dai-Valkyrie Mercury muttered.
"What…?! Just fusing with that Amazon you did this?!" Ima screeched as she reached for Mercury, who easily parried Ima's hand and blasted her back.
Sailor Jupiter and Zey collided with Otokam the Blood Jupiter. Otokam collided with both and pushed them away.
"Damn, she's still too strong," Sailor Jupiter snorted.
"Care for a boost?" Zey offered by holding out a Polymerization Stone.
"Glad you'd ask me that," Jupiter smirked as she and Zey touched the stone, which released a blinding flash of light that engulfed them.
Otokam charged like mad and threw a punch. To the Blood Senshi's shock, Sailor Jupiter casually stepped forward and caught her fist. Jupiter quickly transformed into a Dai-Valkyrie, seized Otokam's arm, and threw Otokam over her shoulder. Jupiter slammed Otokam down hard.
"Ready to show them how's it done, Aphy?!" Sailor Venus asked as she and Aphy touched a Polymerization Stone. Just like their demonstration, the stone merged them. Sailor Venus then transformed into her Dai-Valkyrie form and teleported in front of Okanim.
"What?! She's faster!" Okanim shouted.
"Now you're mine!" Dai-Valkyrie Venus ensnared Okanim's hands with a chain.
Sailor Saturn and Crony merged using a Polymerization Stone. Upon fusing, Sailor Saturn transformed into a Dai-Valkyrie and clashed with Uratoh. The Blood Saturn founder herself trying to keep up with Dai-Valkyrie Saturn's newfound speed and striking power.
Sailor Uranus and Ourany combined using a stone. After combining with her Amazoness counterpart, Uranus became a Dai-Valkyrie and attacked Akurah with her Space Sword.
Sailor Neptune and Poseidy merged using a Polymerization Stone. Following their merger, Neptune turned into a Da-Valkyrie and flew at Urihcim.
"Sailor Mars!" Ary called out to Houou Mars, who was on the fighting off Yami Houou Hiroaki.
"I don't think so!" Ier readied a fiery arrow.
Just then, Hiei, Blue Mars, and Ryuuhi cut off Ier the Blood Mars.
"Hurry and go to our mom!" Blue Mars cried out.
"Thank you!" Ary then tossed a Polymerization Stone to Houou Mars.
Looking over her shoulder, Houou Mars caught the stone. Ary jumped up high enough to touch the stone, invoking a reaction from it. The stone released a ray of light, forging a fusion between Houou Mars and Ary. As the merger completed, Houou Mars received an extra boost. This was more than enough for Houou Mars to turn the tide against Yami Houou Hiroaki.
Yami Houou Hiroaki's black aura was repelled by Houou Mars's fiery cloak. Ier once again tried to intervene, but Houou Mars blasted her back. Ier provided enough distraction for Yami Houou Hiroaki to grab Houou Mars.
"COME, REI! LET'S TAKE THIS FATHER AND DAUGHTER BONDING ELSEWHERE!" Yami Houou Hiroaki boasted, taking Houou Mars high into the sky.
"MARS!" Dai-Valkyrie Moon called out to her.
"Where are you looking at, idiot?!" Igasu lunged at Moon.
Sely stepped in between Moon and Igasu. She drew out a blade and slashed Igasu's left eye.
"Gah!" Igasu hissed, gripping her newly wounded left eye.
As Anustes swung her staff at Sailor Pluto, Hadey intercepted the Blood Pluto's strike. Hadey tossed dust into Anustes's eyes and blinded the evil clone.
"Augh, I can't see! My eyes!" Anustes wailed.
"Hurry! Touch the stone!" Hadey unveiled a Polymerization Stone for Sailor Pluto.
Nodding, Pluto and Hadey touched the stone, invoking a quick fusion. After they merged, Sailor Pluto transformed into her Dai-Valkyrie form. She quickly blasted Anustes with a Dead Scream.
"Nice one, Pluto!" Neo Moon cheered her on.
Taken aback by her new speed and power, Dai-Valkyrie Pluto assessed the other Senshi. So, merging with our Amazon counterparts did make us stronger. Incredible, I can just imagine what would happen if we combined using those permanent Polymerization Stones they told us about.
As Anustes, Dai-Valkyrie Pluto turned to face the Blood Pluto.
"That was a dirty trick you pulled."
Dai-Valkyrie Pluto stood in a battle stance. "Get used to it. I'm used to evil counterparts."
"Like your dear sister Charon?" Anustes reminded her.
"Right, and your welcome refreshing my memory that I have a narcissistic monster for a sibling." Fueled with anger, Dai-Valkyrie Pluto beelined for Anustes and engaged her in close quarters battle.
Dai-Valkyrie Pluto and Anustes fought on equal footing. As Anustes snuck up and went for a cheapshot to Pluto's back, Neo Moon tossed a heart beam that knocked the Blood Pluto away.
"Thank you, Neo Moon!" Pluto whirled around and smacked Anustes's face with her Garnet Staff. She tore off the Garnet Orb and slammed it into Anustes's gut, firing off a beam through the clone's gut.
Igasu instantly rushed at Dai-Valkyrie Moon and Sely. The Blood Moon struck them repeatedly with claw slashes. As she converted both arms into blades, she attempted to skewer her adversaries. Sely intercepted Igasu and disarmed her by cutting off her hands. Igasu retaliated by shooting a tendril, which broke Sely's battle armor and pierced into her left side. Dai-Valkyrie Moon then summoned Sleipnir, sending the eight-legged stallion to distract Igasu.
(End theme)
"Hold him off, Sleipnir!" Commanded Dai-Valkyrie Moon. With that, she dove in and nabbed the wounded Sely. "Hey, I'm going to heal you now."
"No need," smirked Sely, who opened her hand and unveiled a Polymerization Stone. "Me and my friends broke up a few pieces of a Polymerization, which we've intended to use."
"I see. So, you want to do our merger now," Dai-Valkyrie Moon nodded and complied with Sely's strategy. "Since my friends have already fused with yours, I think that time is right."
"Let's do it, me," softly smiled Sely.
(Cue Sailor Moon Crystal OST - Super Sailor Moon Theme)
As Dai-Valkyrie Moon and Sely put their hands on the stone, the same kind of reaction took place. A beam of light shot out and enveloped them. The mystic light merged the two. Dai-Valkyrie Moon remained with Sely's essence now coursing through her.
Venus wasn't kidding when she said she felt stronger just fusing with Aphy! Combining with Sely has made me even stronger! Thought Dai-Valkyrie Moon.
Suddenly, Sleipnir was sent flying into Dai-Valkyrie Moon, who stopped and caught his fall with one hand.
"Wow, amazing! This is my strength now?!" Dai-Valkyrie Moon became enthralled by her enhanced physical strength.
"Nice catch, Sailor Moon. That Amazon you definitely made you far stronger."
"She made you stronger? Big whoop, I'll still kill you, bunny!" Igasu boasted as she threw a right jab at Dai-Valkyrie Moon.
Standing her ground, Moon casually caught Igasu's fist. The force behind Igasu's punch caused a shockwave and formed a crater under them. Baffled by Moon's new power. Igasu pulled back her left hand and went for a straight punch. Moon tucked under Igasu's blow and punched the Blood Moon's gut. Igasu's eyes shot wide and she doubled over in pain. Moon quickly kicked Igasu back and sent her flying into the air.
"Sailor Moon!" Amazoness Empress called out to the powered up Moon.
"I think I can handle her," coolly smirked Moon.
"Wow, that was amazing, Sailor Moon!" Neo Moon cheered her on.
"She never ceases to amaze us," Norse Knight concurred with his future daughter.
"Can it be Sely…? She couldn't have!" Amazoness Empress noticed a difference in the Senshi and Amazoness mergers. "Did you all use the Permafusion stones?!"
Upon hearing this, Dai-Valkyrie Moon tilted her head and gave a subtle smirk. Amazoness Empress noted Moon's smile and read that as Sely's way of confirming her suspicions.
"This was Sely and her friends' intentions!" Dai-Valkyrie Pluto called out to Amazoness Empress. "Having merge with Hadey, her mind, body, and powers have become amalgamated with us. On top of empowering us, we have gained the full extent of their memories. Sely and her friends agreed to use the Permafusion stones before coming here. This is their way of helping us. They've felt they can relive their Senshi duties becoming one with us. Sely and her friends are grateful for your teachings, Amazon queens." She gave a slight bow and let Hadey speak through her. "Thank you, Ladies Swordswoman and Queen."
"Yes, thank you, my queens," Moon spoke in a manner Sely was accustomed to.
"We won't forget your committed services to us, our sisters," Amazoness Empress acknowledged their former Amazon sisters, who now permanently shared bodies with the Senshi.
Powering herself up with an electrified aura, Dai-Valkyrie Jupiter beckoned her own power in conjunction with Zey's. She took a fighting stance and dashed head-on with Otokam.
"C'mon…!" Otokam roared before being punched hard in her abdominals.
Dai-Valkyrie Jupiter quickly socked Otokam with lightning-imbued punches. Jupiter unleashed an uppercut to Otokam's jaw, sending flying into the air.
"And stay down!" Dai-Valkyrie Jupiter shouted, standing tall over the Blood Jupiter.
Dai-Valkyrie Venus summoned a Venus Wink Chain Sword, which she tossed at Okanim. The Blood Venus sidestepped the chained sword and caught it with a hand. She tugged hard on Dai-Valkyrie Venus, utilizing her upper body strength to casually pull Venus toward her. Dai-Valkyrie Venus struggled to hold her ground against her bigger clone. As she planted her heels to the ground, Venus gained leverage and pulled Okanim forward. Dai-Valkyrie Venus hastily flew into Okanim and knocked her back with a kick. Venus then wrapped two chains over Okanim's neck. She quickly got behind Okanim and flipped her over on her back.
"Nice takedown, mom!" Summoner Venus cheered her on.
"There's only one Sailor V in this town, honey!" Dai-Valkyrie Venus declared, recalling her chains. "Thanks, Aphy. Our strengths combined made a big difference."
Dai-Valkyrie Saturn and Uratoh collided across the air. Uratoh's black starred forehead glowed with dark light. She fired a star-shaped projectile at Saturn, who swerved around the attack and slashed it in two with her Silence Glaive. As they collided again, Saturn knocked Uratoh's scythe away. Uratoh's eyes and face contorted much like Mistress 9 before her.
"Come and meet your death, Hotaru!" Uratoh hissed as she shot tendrils from her body.
Swinging down her glaive, Saturn sliced up every one of Uratoh's tendrils. The Blood Saturn converted her hair and fired tendrils to ensnare Saturn. Saturn fiercely cut through Uratoh's hair extensions and slashed her chest. Saturn delivered a quick slash that cut Uratoh's torso in two, leaving her laying on the ground.
"No cheap imitation will be better than me," Saturn proclaimed her domination over her clone.
As Ier regained her bearings, she was surrounded by Hiei, Blue Mars, and Ryuuhi. The father and his hybrid children took turns slashing at the Blood Mars. Hiei imbued his sword with dark flames and attacked her. Ier formed a flame circle, which absorbed Hiei's flamed sword. Blue Mars unleashed an icy flamed dragon that pushed Ier away. Ryuuhi ran at and quickly sliced off Ier's right arm. Blue Mars forged an ice dagger and chopped off Ier's left arm. Hiei got behind Blood Mars's back and drove his sword into Ier's back. Black flames expelled through the sword and into Ier. Ier collapsed consumed by black flames. Cammy then got a drop on Ier and placed an Ofuda seal on Ier, preventing her from fleeing.
"Where's mom, aunt Cammy?!" Blue Mars asked, tending to Sam, who was hurt by Ier.
"She's gone to fight the Yami Houou," Cammy answered. "We can only hope she can save your grandfather." She looked up as streaks of cosmic flames collided and rattled the vicinity hard.
(End theme)
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(Cue Sailor Moon Crystal OST - Sailor Mars Theme)
Motivated with an intent to kill, Yami Houou Hiroaki hastily flew toward Houou Mars. He enveloped his body in black flames and fired a barrage of blasts at Houou Mars. She quickly wiped out the black flames with her Houou cloak. Enveloping herself in the cosmic bird's aura, Houou Mars launched at and clashed with Yami Houou Hiroaki. Yami Houou Hiroaki tried to repel her, but found himself being overtaken by her.
"How did you manage to get stronger than US?!" Yami Houou Hiroaki roared in frustration.
"The Houou and I together can't be beaten by the likes of you! You've taken on a far inferior vessel! What else can you do with someone whose will is weaker than mine?!" Houou Mars berated him. She threw a punch. Her right fist became imbued with cosmic flames.
Much to Yami Houou Hiroaki's dismay, Houou Mars' fist started eating at and phasing through his dark flamed cloak.
"You made the mistake to use my father's body to attack me and my family! No one brings harm to the ones I love and hold dear!"
"WE'LL destroy the Hino family bond!"
"I WON'T LET YOU!" She cried in defiance against the corrupted entity.
"WE WON'T BE PURGED BY YOU, REI HINO! YOU'RE OURS!"
Houou Mars fiercely gritted and focused her cosmic flames, slowly overtaking Yami Houou Hiroaki's stranglehold. She threw her arms out and unleashed a wave of cosmic flames that burst forth and engulfed Yami Houou Hiroaki. He ended up on the receiving end of Houou Mars's devastating fiery force.
Ary, I don't know what to say to you permanently merging yourself with me and the Houou, but we won't let your selfless act go to waste! Our strength together can overcome anything now! Houou Mars shouted internally.
"Yes, let us do our Amazon ally proud, Sailor Mars!" The Houou screeched loudly as she folded her massive wings over Houou Mars.
As the Houou coalesced herself with her vessel, Houou Mars's eyes burned with intensity. Yami Houou Hiroaki exerted more dark flames and unleashed them against Houou Mars's way. Houou Mars swerved away and used her flames to dispel Yami Houou Hiroaki's dark fire. Houou Mars flew through Yami Houou Hiroaki's dark flames and delivered a powerful right hand.
Yami Houou Hiroaki's face contorted following Houou Mars's blow. Houou Mars quickly slammed into Yami Houou Hiroaki. She then unleashed a powerful shockwave, which not only dazed but knocked him down from a high altitude.
Boom!
Yami Houou Hiroaki crashed hard into the ground. He was left lying in a heap inside a crater. Houou Mars descended and stared over the fallen Yami Houou host. Yami Houou Hiroaki slowly stirred and opened his eyes, barely snarling under his breath.
(End theme)
"You've been defeated, Yami Houou. Now prepare to be purged from that body you've taken."
Yami Houou Hiroaki gritted. "No, it's not over yet… WE'LL come back for you when you least expected it!"
(Cue Fate/Zero OST - Rule the Battlefield)
Suddenly, Yami Houou Hiroaki saw Akurah and Urihcim being blasted into the air. He noticed Dai-Valkyrie Uranus and Neptune walking toward their clones. Uranus and Neptune looked ready to finish them off. He also saw Dai-Valkyrie Mercury amass a pillar of water and hit Ima with it.
Not one to surrender against her foes, Igasu rushed Dai-Valkyrie Moon, Yusuke, Yugi, Jaden, and RJ. Yusuke blasted her with a full-powered Spirit Wave. RJ followed up with his Demon Gun variation, firing red streams of demon energies that knocked Igasu back.
"She's all yours, Yugi and Jaden!" Yusuke called out to the Duelists.
Now sporting Buster Blader's full-bodied armor after merging with Buster Blader, Yugi carved a devastating blow to Igasu with his Dragon Sword. Jaden, now Spirit Fused with Yubel and Elemental Hero Neos, struck Igasu with a full-powered Neos Force shot.
Taking a deep breath, Yugi powered down and his Buster Blader armor faded. A purple orb shot out of Yugi and materialized to reconstitute into Buster Blader. The purple-armored knight gave a thumbs up to Yugi.
"Thank you for permitting me to use the Polymerization Stone with you, King of Games."
"It was an honor, Buster Blader."
"Nice work, Yugi! Looks like we kicked her butt!" Jaden said.
Dai-Valkyrie Moon turned to Amazoness Empress. The two female warriors rushed toward Igasu. The duo slashed Igasu with consecutive sword strikes, dismembered the Blood Moon's arms, and dealt a critical blow to her. Igasu was knocked into the air as blood came spurting from her chest.
"Way to go, Sailor Moon!" Neo Moon cheered her.
"That should do it," Cammy nodded.
Houou Mars raised a hand overhead and amassed a fiery arrow. Before she can finish her attack, Yami Houou Hiroaki fired a pillar of dark flames out of the crater. He quickly rocketed out and scanned the defeated Blood Senshi.
"No, this isn't over." Scowled Yami Houou Hiroaki growled intensely. With a hand wave, nine black orbs formed over the Blood Senshi. He collected Igasu and her team, floating them far away from the Senshi and their allies.
"Hey, he's retreating and taking our evil clones with him!" Dai-Valkyrie Jupiter shouted.
"Oh hell no! Like we're giving you the chance to escape!" Dai-Valkyrie Venus cried out.
"No, he intends to get away," Dai-Valkyrie Pluto noticed Yami Houou Hiroaki's body dematerializing along with the Blood Senshi.
As Pluto said this, Yami Houou Hiroaki conjured a dark hole behind him. The hole swallowed up the Blood Senshi. Yami Houou Hiroaki made brief eye contact with Houou Mars and Cammy.
"You may have defeated US today, but WE will return to torment each and every one of you! But, Rei and Cammy, WE shall come for you and your whole family!" The Yami Houou entity openly vowed retaliation against Hiroaki's daughters, their family, and their friends. "All of you will suffer OUR wrath!" With that, he entered the hole and closed it up.
As Houou Mars prepared to go after him, the Houou stopped her from carrying forth a pursuit.
The Houou telepathically suggested. "We'll seize them the next time they show. And Yami Houou has once again eluded us by masking its presence. I can't sense it anymore."
"Fine," Houou Mars sighed deeply.
(End theme)
"Is everyone ok?" Dai-Valkyrie Moon queried to the others.
"We are now. Man, I didn't think merging with our Amazon selves would've been that huge of a difference maker," Dai-Valkyrie Venus stated.
"So, they're permanently part of us now?" Dai-Valkyrie Uranus looked overself. "Yeah, I feel different, but look the same."
"That's because Sely and her friends' spiritual essences have immersed with your bodies," Amazoness Empress said as a white light engulfed her. She was then defused into Swordswoman and Queen.
"Did you put them up to it?" Dai-Valkyrie Moon asked the two Amazons.
"No, this was their decision," Swordswoman replied.
"We tried convincing them the perma-stones would result in exactly what has happened: a permanent fusion. There would be no going back," Queen stated.
Dai-Valkyrie Pluto added. "Yes, now having Hadey fused with me, I have her memories. I can confirm Hadey and the others finalized their decision."
"But, what convinced them to do this?" Neo Moon wondered.
"Because Sely and her friends felt they owed it to us," Dai-Valkyrie Moon vaguely smiled as if speaking for Sely herself, whose presence immersed with Moon's body. "We were the ones who saved them from that cave and they helped us take that Orb of Minos from those Rajita aliens. And after all this time, they still wanted to repay the favor. In a way, they're reliving their former lives through us."
"So, who are you now?" Norse Knight asked his wife. "Are you still Sailor Moon or are you Sely?"
Dai-Valkyrie Moon once again smiled vaguely. "A little of both, but I'm still me."
"Ok, that's oddly vague," Yusuke remarked.
"Not necessarily, she's still very much our friend Usagi Tsukino," Kurama answered. "But she has Sely's memories and presumably inherited her fighting abilities. Following these permanent mergers, Sailor Moon and the others have gained power boosts."
Yugi nodded. "Indeed, unlike my merger with Buster Blader, which was temporary."
"We won't forget all they've done for us," Swordswoman acknowledged Sely and company's service to her kingdom. Sely. Ary. Hermy. Zey, Aphy. Ourany. Poseidy, Crony. And Hadey. You're reliving your former Senshi lives by permanently fusing with this dimension's Sailor Senshi. I consider this a fair trade-off. You've learned everything we taught you. Now lend your warrior skills to Usagi and her friends in times of need.
"Fair warning, Sailor Senshi. Don't be surprised if you exhibit some of Sely and company's traits and attributes. You may find one morning you'll suddenly break a coffee cup or two without restraint. And for those with significant others, your sexual urges may even kick into overdrive. If If I were you, I'd find ways to control those discrepancies." Queen forewarned them.
"Whoa, thanks for the warning!" Dai-Valkyrie Jupiter said, clenching her right hand. "And I'm already freakishly strong anyway."
Rio turned to Venus. "Honey, you heard that?"
However, Dai-Valkyrie Venus snickered behind his back. "Mmm, oh yes indeed!" She had a twinkle in her eye, causing Rio to turn away.
Summoner Venus chuckled. "Careful, dad. Mom can be a freak in bed."
"Control our sexual urges? Child's play." Dai-Valkyrie Neptune scoffed and nonchalantly flipped her hair. "Uranus and I can help one another with that." She said while putting her arms around Uranus.
"Well, whatever. I can control my urges just fine," Houou Mars said as she heard Hiei vanish out of thin air. "Don't even bother running from me, Hiei! I'll find you."
Blue Mars giggled. "Yep, shows dad's afraid of you, mom."
Ryuuhi sighed. "Let me go get him."
Kuwabara snickered. "Heheh, so shorty is afraid of someone. Not that I blame him. And he's still not even married to her. Between Mukuro and Rei, I don't know who I'd be more afraid of him."
Houou Mars cupped her ear. "What's that, Kazuma? I didn't quite get that."
"That'd you make the best damn sister-in-law if you and Hiei ever got married!"
Kurama added with a quip. "That's not what I heard."
"Oh, c'mon, Kurama. Don't rat me out, man," the orange-haired young man begged the red-haired fox demon.
"Don't worry. These sexually deviant behaviors will dissipate with time, but these are just side effects by perma-fusing with our kind," Queen said. "Despite our differences with the male gender, we are very sexually active."
"For our sakes, let's hope this is temporary," Dai-Valkyrie Saturn said. "I wouldn't want Dimitro to be intimidated the next time we bond in private."
"Changing the subject, Rei's father is still out there possessed by the Yami Houou fragment," Dai-Valkyrie Pluto reminded them.
"He and now the Blood Senshi will be problematic," Dai-Valkyrie Mercury noted. "There's no telling when they'll strike. I know they'll come for us when we least expect it, my friends."
"Those Blood Senshi might've beaten us now, but we'll be ready for them next time," Cyber Mercury said.
"Got that right," Daiki nodded.
"Yeah, and look how we turned things around once Sailor Moon and the others fused with their Amazon selves," Lyn said.
"Mr. Kaiba, these Polymerization Stones may come in handy if we can talk with the Amazons and their allies," Jaden encouraged the CEO to begin talks with the Duel Monster communities.
"We already have the power of the Spirit Fusions. The stones would benefit them more than us," Seto stated.
"Nonetheless, our Duel Monster friends have access to resources to help us combat future threats," Yugi said.
Houou Mars walked past the group and quietly stared at the sky.
"Mars," Dai-Valkyrie Moon whispered, putting a hand on Houou Mars's shoulder while comforting her. "Don't worry. We'll be ready."
"That's not it. That thing still has a hold on my father," Houou Mars muttered. "I've had my differences… no, differences is putting it mildly. I've been heated toward my father for years, but my anger toward him has greatly diminished. I'm better off knowing I'm raising my own family than worrying about the past."
Overhearing this, Cammy smiled.
"I have my sister. Both present and future counterparts of my kids. Hiei. My mother and grandfather in spirit. And I have all of you," Houou Mars said, turning to face Moon and genuinely smiling. "All of you outweigh my need for my father again, but there's no way I'm letting my worst enemy use him the way it used me."
"And we'll beat Yami Houou together. Same goes for Igasu and her new crew. Today, Igasu just reminded us that our worst enemies are ourselves." Moon said. "We'll stop them no matter what it takes and save your father."
"Thanks, Usagi," Houou Mars said.
The Houou telepathically interjected. "And you have me, Rei Hino. We will purge my dark half should it ever resurface. And I suspect Yami Houou will return sooner than later."
Clenching her fists, Houou Mars nodded. "You're right."
xxxxx
Shinjuku District (新宿区)/Off-Location CainCorp Laboratory/11:30 PM
Shortly after the battle, Yami Houou Hiroaki returned with the Blood Senshi. Before returning to the lab facility, Yami Houou created a pocket dimension to cloak their presence from the heroes, allowing them to escape undetected.
(Cue Fate/stay night Unlimited Blade Works OST - Purple Shade)
Yami Houou Hiroaki found several stasis chambers and placed the Blood Senshi in them. He closed the doors and let them recover.
"That should get that Rei's bird off OUR backs. They'll be too busy recovering."
Suddenly, Yami Houou Hiroaki collapsed as he grabbed a chair and sat down on it. He took a few deep breaths. The Yami Houou's dark flames thinned out and vanished off Hiroaki's body. His youthful form, too, vanished as he aged to his normal older appearance.
"Feh, you're a far weaker vessel than your daughter. And it showed when she and my light counterpart bested US! How does it feel to be humiliated by Rei Hino, Hiroaki?! OUR strength is still nowhere near where it should be to contend with her and the Houou. And there were several attempts when she tried to absorb US! You would've been devoured as well, Hiroaki."
"...enough… I don't want to fight her anymore…"
"Oh, but you must, Hiroaki. WE must! OUR revenge can't be fully realized until we've purged them both from existence! Only one Houou can exist and it shall be ME!"
"And you intend to continue utilizing me in your twisted long-term game… and what if my lie expires? What then? Who will you take as your host?"
"WE'LL worry about that if it ever comes down to you croaking on me, old man. Why do you think I have to enhance your body and deage you to your former youth? That way you can may last longer as my vessel."
"Well, well, what do we have here?" A man's voice interjected, causing Yami Houou Hiroaki to turn. He saw Cain Bearer walk in unannounced with Grace Groves. "Hiroaki Hino, you're not looking well. I know you've had better days, but this…?"
"Careful, sir," Grace advised her boss.
Cain put a hand out to beckon Grace away. "Don't think I haven't noticed you tampering with one of my labs. The security camera that you and your clones neglected to cut off showed me your activities."
"What do you intend to do?" Hiroaki asked him. "Look, do what you want with me… turn me into the police. I don't care…"
"Oh, don't worry, Hiroaki. I have no intentions of turning you over to the police," Cain walked by the stasis chambers and eyed each Blood Senshi. "I'm quite impressed with your work."
"I can't take all the credit."
Yami Houou chortled darkly within Hiroaki's mind. "Yeah, you needed that Igasu bitch to do all the work for ya, old timer."
"I know you didn't do this alone. Who helped you creating this wonderful monstrosities?"
Hiroaki pointed to Igasu. "Her. I found her when I took her out of the Senshi's custody. And she helped clone these others."
"Intriguing, and I saw the latest news coverage. These clones engaged the Senshi and their allies."
"Yes, and we almost defeated them."
"So close, yet so far…" Cain merely shook his head.
"After they recover, they will reawaken to fight another day."
"That's good, because I hope to use them and you," Cain said.
"Use us?"
"Yes."
Hearing this, Hiroaki chuckled. "No, I'm afraid you're not… WE don't need you. But, you will need US!" Hissed Hiroaki as Yami Houou once again took control of his pathetic state. The dark flames resurfaced and consumed Hiroaki. As a result of Yami Houou taking over, Hiroaki regained his younger prime appearance.
Upon witnessing Hiroaki's physical change, both Cain and Grace backed off from Yami Houou Hiroaki.
"What in god's name…?!" Grace gasped in horror.
Cain blanched at Yami Houou Hiroaki. "...what did you do to yourself, Hiroaki?"
"What did I do to myself? No, more like what WE did to OURSELVES! This meatbag of a body will help me exact revenge on a few particulars."
"Who?" queried Cain.
"Don't you worry about them. Let US handle them. But WE know you need more funding in your research, and support to find and detain Metas in this city."
Still taken aback by Hiroaki's corrupted appearance, Cain nodded. "Yes, that's correct."
Yami Houou Hiroaki smirked. "Consider it done, Mr. Bearer. And from now on, you and your lovely assistant here will see me more proactive than usual. And don't worry, I'll help you with your Sailor Senshi problems. In fact, WE have intel on them."
"What kind of intel? And who's we?"
"Sorry, but that's undisclosed. It's intel that will remain here." He tapped his head.
Cain shrugged. "Fair enough, Hiroaki. After all, we're business partners, aren't we?"
Grace cautiously got close to Cain's ear. "Careful sir. I think whatever's on him is influencing him. That could be the we that he's referring to."
"Fine, but you'll permit us to use your clones to help us hunt down Metas?"
"Once they're fully recovered, WE will."
"Then, it's a deal," Cain hesitated to approach Yami Houou Hiroaki, who stood his ground.
Savor this victory, Rei Hino. You, your sister, and your friends enjoy this downtime until WE cross paths. And when WE do, life will become absolute hell for you and your loved ones! Cast Hiroaki away and you will pay the price! Hiroaki thought with Yami Houou internally controlling him.
(End theme)
xxxxx
Azabu-JūbanDistrict (麻布十番区)/Hikawa Shrine (氷川神社)/12:05 AM
After tucking in little Ryuuhi and Koori in their beds, Rei walked out to meet with Cammy. Hiei slept peacefully on the tree with Phobos and Deimos on his shoulders.
"I still can't believe Yami Houou's back and now in control of our father."
Rei quietly nodded.
"Can we save him, sis?"
"I can't say. Yami Houou's made this a delicate and personal situation. I know father's wronged us in the past, but he appeared to be on his way to rebuilding himself and give us a better impression of him. Now, Yami Houou's destroyed all that attempted goodwill."
"You're right. I just feel somewhat badly what's happened. And it's my fault for letting him into our home. Because of me, Igasu's been free!"
Rei nodded dismissively. "No, don't beat yourself up over that, Cammy. You had no idea Yami Houou took hold of father. And it's a good thing you called me. Even you had your suspicions. You're more important than Igasu. Although, we do have more evil Senshi clones to contend with, including my own evil clone."
"Yeah, but I still want to make things right and help in anyway I can to stop Yami Houou."
Hearing that, Rei hugged Cammy. "Thanks, Cammy." The Houou's aura materialized around them as if protecting the sisters and their bond.
"Now, how about we another birthday party for you? With all our friends this time? You know to make up for what happened."
"Sure."
xxxxx
A/N: That ends this mini-arc. Yeah, I would've finished this sooner like a month ago, but the Cross Generations finale took a ton of my writing time and that needed to see completion. And since that was already a big chapter, I needed some rest before committing to anymore writing. I gave myself a week and finished this off. Believe me, I hate leaving stories hanging.
So, this chapter was pretty telling for future events. One, it sets up Yami Houou Hiroaki and the Blood Senshi to return. They will have big villain roles in Wrath of the Defiants. Yami Houou Hiroaki may have lost this battle against Sailor Mars and her friends, but the personal Houou war will continue in Defiants and things will get worse for our heroes.
Second, the Amazoness Senshi complete their mergers with the Sailor Senshi. It was already foretold during the final battle against Zeed X in Cross Generations (to the point where the Senshi turn into the Amazoness Eight themselves to avenge their former home being destroyed by Zeed X). Now, we see how it occurs. Unlike a regular fusion, the perma-fusion leaves greater side effects and because of this the Senshi could exhibit Amazoness-like behaviors, but chances are the Senshi will easily overcome these discrepancies and sort themselves out.
Cain Bearer and Grace make an appearance. Big reveal: Hiroaki has been funding some of Cain's secret projects and helping to support to detain citywide Metas. So, while it appeared Hiroaki was on his way to bettering himself for his wife and daughters, he was still doing nefarious things that corrupt politicians are known for behind closed doors. Shady alliances are being formed and different storylines are being intertwined (YH!Hiroaki vs. Mars & the Senshi and the Meta conflict angles becoming parallel to each other). The Senshi should count themselves lucky Hiroaki's keeping their identities to himself. He may even try to blackmail Rei and Cammy at some point, but we'll see how this personal conflict unfolds in Defiants.
And with that, this covers another Defiants tie-in story. From this point on, any future Defiants tie-ins will be included in Prelude to the Defiants (the first part of the Defiants saga). From this point on, Gaiden will only be for miscellaneous stories that have no greater importance in the grand scheme of YYGDM. With Defiants approaching, YYGDM's end draws closer.
Until the next entry, send a review and see you soon!