A/N: Another chapter coming your way. This one's shorter than the Sailor Moon tribute.
This chapter will be a Yoshihiro Togashi tribute.
You got it: the Detective meets the Hunters in a Togashi Power Hour!
I'm a big fan of Togashi. He's a Shonen mangaka that typically thinks outside the box in his writings, which I can appreciate. YuYu Hakusho is in my top 5 favorite anime shows. As for Hunter x Hunter, it's becoming one of my new favorites in the last few years. Though I did catch a little of the 1999 anime, I never read the manga, but I've gotten hooked thanks to the 2011 reboot.
So, who's the dark agent opponent they'll face? Not one you might've expected.
As you'd expect, these are the YYGDM-01 versions of the Spirit Detectives. For the Hunters, their crossover with the Detectives here is set between the Yorknew and Greed Island arcs. So look at it as a fun side distraction for the Hunters during this transition (after Kurapika recovers from overusing his scarlet eyes).
Enjoy!
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Dimension Coordinate Key
DF-616: Digimon Fusion Kai mainstream dimension
YYGDM-01: YuYuGiDigiMoon mainstream dimension
HXH-98: Hunter x Hunter dimension
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Dimension: DF-616/Other World/X and Simms' Planet
"X! Hey, what's on your mind?" BW asked X, who watched Tai and Agumon train on a field. He walked over, sitting beside the masked watcher.
"We've had a lot of successful dimension quests," X answered.
"That's good to know. Though, I expected as much."
"The Sailor Senshi of YYGDM-01 just helped one of their alternate counterparts defeat some dangerous enemies influenced by an anomalous source."
BW nodded, closing his eyes. "I do wonder about the source that's spread these dark agents. It's almost like we're deleting a bunch of computer viruses."
"Well yeah, that's exactly what we're doing, BW. Cleansing the Nexus dimensions and ensuring no world gets infected by these agents. We've been making good progress."
"It just feels like this will be everlasting."
"No, we will resolve this crisis, BW. Whether it takes us a couple more weeks or months. Maybe even a year, but I doubt it'll take that long. We mustn't lose patience. These things do take time."
"Times like this I wish we could use the Digicores in situations like this."
X nodded dismissively. "As much as I agree, we shouldn't rely on them if we can help the urge. I'd rather let SliferGigaSeadramon rest."
"Right, it was just a suggestion. By the way, you still haven't completely ditched that mask, Max?"
"What? C'mon, you folks need to lay off me losing my mask. Yeah, I revealed myself to everyone when I helped Tai reach Ascendant God status. Everyone's seen my face, but... I don't know I've gotten so attached to being X that I couldn't let it go."
"Simms is back on Watcher duties again. So, you could relax and maybe catch up on training."
Balling up his fist, X looked down at his hand. "I do need to work off some rust. Maybe you'd like to help me on that, bro?" He turned to BW and stood, disrobing his Watcher wardrobe minus the mask.
BW stretched both arms out and glared down X. "I'm happy to kick your butt." He powered up with an aura shaped like BlackWarGreymon forming over him.
"You're welcome to try your best, brother."
Just as X and BW were about to throw down, Simms hollered and beckoned.
"Hey, I've gotten word another group just entered a dimension!" Simms announced, interrupting the dual training sessions.
"Which group is it, Simms?" X inquired to the old watcher.
"It's our Spirit Detective friends from dimension YYGDM-01," Simms plainly stated, sitting down and watching Yusuke's group enter a dimension.
"Now this I have to see," Tai said as he and Agumon joined Simms, X, and BW.
"What dimension have they entered?" Asked Agumon.
"The dimension designated HXH-98," revealed Simms.
Sneaking a smirk, X seemed to recognize this particular world. "Ah, Yusuke and his friends entered that dimension? This one should prove to be quite interesting." And hopefully, it's not in suspended animation again, for reasons unexplained.
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(Cue Birthday Massacre – Trinity)
(Cue Hunter x Hunter 2011 Opening – Departure (1st version))
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Cross Generations
Act I: Dimension Missions
Chapter VII: Hunters x and x Detectives
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(Cue Yu Yu Hakusho Unleashed OST – Recap Theme 3)
"Hey, humans, punks, and freaks out there, this is your favorite neighborhood ass-kicking Spirit Detective, Yusuke Urameshi! So, as per an order from Koenma and the Nexus powers, me and the boys have been sent to some crazy world to solve the latest dark agent case.
The world we've been sent to...holy crap, it's a place I never imagined I'd end up in! We happened to arrive in the world of Hunter x Hunter! Me, Kuwabara, Hiei, and Kurama ended up meeting Gon and his friends after we saved them from some dark agent minion freaks. They thought we were some high-class Hunters when they saw us kick ass. So we set the record straight with them.
And let me get something straight, yeah I did cosplay as Gon several years back. Sue me. I lost a bet. But, never in a million years did I think I'd meet the kid."
(End theme)
(Cue Hunter x Hunter OST – The World of Adventurers)
"Hey, Yusuke! Who are ya talking to?"
"Oh, sup, Gon? Um, I'm just talking to myself."
"Sounds like you were talking to someone! By the way, are we gonna get that dark agent guy you and your pals are chasing?"
"Sure we are, Gon! And once we do, we're gonna give him a piece of our mind. Well, looks like Kurama and your friend, Kura-what's his name?"
"Kura-pika."
"Right, Kurapika! Y'know, he reminds me of a blonde-haired Kurama and his taste in fighting gear is just like my foxy friend."
"Yeah, Leorio and Kuwabara are getting along well."
"Hiei and Killua haven't said much to each other. Though, Hiei tells me Killua eerily sounds like Sailor Mars back home. I don't hear it. Then again, Hiei pretty much is Rei's boyfriend."
"That's weird. Hey, looks like we're ready to move out to that creepy fun house! Wait up, guys!"
"Oh, way to wait for us, you jerk-offs! Hey!"
(End theme)
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Dimension: HXH-98/Outside the Manor of Fun and Madness
Standing in a single-line formation, the Spirit Detectives and Hunters faced a lavish and elaborate mansion. The manor seemed to suit the wealthy. However, the Detectives and Hunters felt an ominous vibe emanate from this manor.
(Cue Hunter x Hunter 2011 OST – Mano-a-Mano!)
"So, this is it?" Kuwabara eyed the manor, scratching his chin.
"Looks like some estate to me," a tall, lanky manly-looking young man with black hair worn in a spiky crew cut. Unlike Kuwabara, who wore casual wear, this man wore a garb fitting for a professional: a dark blue business suit and dark shoes. This is Leorio Paradinight, the Hunter studying to become a medical practitioner.
"You know better than to seen through deceptive facades, Kuwabara," Kurama politely admonished his tall ginger-haired friend.
"There is definitely something sinister behind it," a blonde-haired youthful boy with dark gray eyes. He wore a dark tabard trimmed with red hem and a white full bodysuit underneath, complete with periwinkle flat shoes. This is Kurapika, the last survivor of the Kurta Clan, who's bent on avenging his clan.
"Kurama, you don't have to remind the fool of vigilance," Hiei snorted, meticulously eyeing the mansion.
"This is nothing we can't handle. Right, Gon?" A short pale-skinned and silver-haired boy replied. Apart from his eyes being blue, they are sharp-looking. He wore baggy clothing, consisting of a long-sleeved black shirt with a white shirt over it, and plum-colored shoes. This is Killua Zoldyck, heir to a family of famed assassins.
"Got that right, Killua. Yusuke, you ready to do this?" A young boy with hazel brown eyes and long spiky dark hair with green tips trimmed around the edges. He is dressed in a light green jacket with reddish trim, green shorts, and green laced boots. This is Gon Freecss, son of Ging Freecss and whose sole purpose of becoming a Hunter is to find his father.
"Let's go," Yusuke nodded as he and Gon led the group toward the mansion.
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Inside Manor of Fun and Madness/Private Quarters
Facing a big screen HD TV, a shadowed figure sat in a comfy chair and shuffled some cards.
The figure chortled darkly as his guests busted through the front doors. He whispered. "It's showtime."
(End theme)
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Labyrinth
Entering the dark agent's labyrinth territory, the Detectives and Hunters stormed through the manor and faced numerous physical obstacles. From traps and guards, they cleared numerous stages to reach the dark agent. Utilizing their Spirit Energy and Nen, they easily dispatched the guards.
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(Cue Hunter x Hunter 2011 OST – Chain Bastard)
Kuwabara sliced up two agents with his Dual Spirit Swords. "Outta our way, punks!"
"Looks like we've cleared this stage! There's a door, Kazuma!"
"Hurry!" Kuwabara barked as he and Leorio bolted for the door, which nearly closed on them. "Urameshi and the others are close! I can feel them!"
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Shooting out a Rose Whip from his sleeve, Kurama beheaded tentacle-headed shadow beings. Kurapika conjured two chains, which he used to subdue and tear through shadow beings.
"My nose's picked up on Kuwabara and Leorio's whereabouts! This way, Kurapika."
"Ok!" The Conjurer nodded, following Kurama.
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Slash!
Hiei sliced through several shadow guards with his sword. Killua skewered a few shadow guards with claws.
"Gon! I know where you're heading!" Killua felt his colleague's presence not too far off.
"Yes, they're close," Hiei said, dashing off with Killua.
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A giant black minotaur rushed Yusuke and Gon. The beast threw a punch that Yusuke caught with his hands. Yusuke quickly blurred out from the labyrinth monster's view. In place of Yusuke, Gon lunged at the minotaur and punched it in the face. Taking a vicious blow to the face, the minotaur stumbled, but recovered and vanished in the darkness. Gon's perceptive eyes quickly picked up on the minotaur.
"Can't hide from me!" Gon whirled around and punched something hard.
Gon's punch revealed the minotaur's presence. The beast fell back, segueing way to Yusuke unleashing a Spirit Gun to the minotaur's face, melting the beast's face off.
"Nice moves, kid!"
"Thanks!" Gon flashed a big grin to the Spirit Detective. He sniffed and picked up on Killua's scent along with Hiei's. "Hey, your swordsman friend and Killua are close! We're all heading the same direction!"
"Great! Let's haul ass then!" Yusuke hollered as he and Gon rushed through the path leading to their destination. He and Gon quickly sighted their friends converging to a massive door. "There!"
And without a moment to lose, the Detectives and Hunters bolted through the final stage door.
(End theme)
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Game Lord's Territory
(Cue Yu Yu Hakusho Unreleased Track #34)
The room they entered was dark. There was no sign of any light source, but for most of the group members, the pitch darkness didn't hinder their other senses.
"Hey, who turned out the freaking lights?!" Kuwabara blurted out.
"Does he really think he can ambush us?" Kurapika wondered.
"Then, he's sorely mistaken," Kurama added. "But, I doubt he's that foolish. He didn't set up deliberate traps along the way for show."
"He was testing our physical prowess," Hiei stated.
"Right you are, my fellow contestants!" A voice came blaring out from what sounded like speakers, which startled the group.
(End theme)
Suddenly, spotlights lit up the ceiling and beamed down over the groups. The next thing they knew, they were caught in a spotlight revealing a game show stage. Another spotlight shone down on the source of the mysterious dark agent.
Standing at the center of the spotlight is a man in a white suit. He had his back turned to the Detectives and Hunters, initially concealing his face to them. As he whirled around, he revealed himself: a grey-skinned man with short silver hair, green eyes, and a nicely trimmed mustache. He stood with arms stretched outward, holding white cards in his right hand.
(Cue Hunter x Hunter 2011 OST – Get Funky!)
"Congratulations on making it this far, gentlemen!" The dark agent openly addressed the Detectives and Hunters, who had bewildered on their faces. "Oh, judging by the looks on your faces, I suspect you were expecting some hard-hitting and explosive brawl where you try to gang up on me?"
"Well, yeah, that's why we're here. We kick your ass and stop you from spreading your dark energy. Then, we go home and have some cold ones..." Yusuke was quickly interrupted by Kuwabara.
"Hey, you forget we have minors with us, Urameshi?!"
"Oh, I almost forgot," Yusuke smacked himself. "Ok, I really meant just us four."
"Never mind that," Hiei snorted, brandishing his sword as he faced the dark agent. "Enough nonsense. Come over here so I can cut you in two and we can get this over with."
"Well, that'd be nice, Mr. Hiei, but once you've entered my territory, I've forbidden you from physically provoking me. So, yes, the minute you stepped into this room, you activated my territory," the dark agent said, producing a white flower and tying it to his suit pocket. "And to be quite frank, I'm not a fighter. I'm a host."
"A host of what?" Leorio asked in confusion.
(End theme)
With a snap of his fingers, the whole room light up, and a loud round of applause filled the entire room. The Detectives and Hunters quickly turned to see a large audience clapping and cheering.
(Cue Jeopardy Intro theme)
"Why, I'm a game show host! And welcome to Jeopardy of Misfortune!"
"Jeopardy of Misfortune?" Kurapika blinked in befuddlement.
"Someone's gonna sue," Kuwabara remarked. "And he even almost sounds like that Alex Trebek guy."
"Wait, territory?" Gon wondered. "What does he mean when we entered his territory we can't attack?"
"This isn't the first we've dealt with territory users. They're usually psychics with special abilities that create spaces to trap their victims," Kurama explained to the young Hunter. "And when one enters these territories, certain taboos are placed on those within said territory. And since this dark agent had forbidden any physical provocation, we can't fight him no matter how hard we try."
"Yeah, we've fought our share of territory users and let me tell ya they're a pain in the ass," Yusuke added, recalling his encounters with Sensui's cohorts. "We even had to deal with a kid who trapped us in a video game."
"Yes, and if Game Master is of any indication, then his agent has similar powers to Amanuma," the red-haired fox deduced. "However, we might not be lucky since. I doubt this agent bears the emotional baggage Amanuma does."
"Anyway, I am your host on this fine evening, the Game Lord," the dark agent unveiled his name to them. "Now, how shall we determine teams? Oh, I can arrange that." Snapping his fingers, he created lecterns in front of the respective duos that worked together getting through the labyrinth.
(End theme)
The contestant duos were divided as follows, from right to left: Kuwabara/Leorio, Hiei/Killua, Yusuke/Gon, and Kurama/Kurapika.
A big screen with multiple categories flashed on, looking exactly like the set seen on Jeopardy.
The Game Lord created his own lectern and took his place behind it.
"Ok, we're about to start round 1! But, first, why don't we put something at stake here?"
"Name it," Yusuke insisted.
"How about when we kick your butt you'll let us go free and you leave this world?" Gon suggested, to which the Game Lord nodded.
"You have a deal! But, should I win, you'll be trapped here playing games with me forevermore!"
"We accept the conditions," Kurama stated.
(Cue Yu Yu Hakusho OST – Amanuma (Game Master's) Theme)
"Then, let's begin round 1 already!" The Game Lord announced. "Ladies and gents, tonight we have four teams vying for freedom. One team will make it to the final round to compete against yours truly, your host!" His announcement elicited loud cheers from his viewing audience. "Now, we begin! Remember, there's a buzzer to chime in if you're ready to answer. So, who wants to start?"
Buzz!
"Contestants Kuwabara and Leorio wish to go first?"
"Yeah! I'll take Cuisine for $300, Game Lord!" Kuwabara said.
"Ok: About how many eggs are needed to make an omelet."
Leorio buzzed in. "Two!"
Bzzzzt!
"Oh, I'm sorry. While that's more or less right, you're still technically wrong."
"What?!" Leorio spat out.
"Wait, since we're playing a Jeopardy round, every answer has to be in the form of a question!" Kuwabara stated.
"Right you are, Mr. Kuwabara," the Game Lord nodded. "Therefore, Contestant Leorio has been eliminated."
"Wait, Contestants are eliminated after getting an answer wrong!" Yusuke said. "The hell kind of game you playing at us?"
"My games and rules. If you don't wish to abide by them, then I'll have to disqualify you. So, with that..." The Game Lord snapped his fingers as Leorio gets teleported inside a glass container being filled with water.
"Hey, what kind of cheap game is this?!" Leorio banged against the glass. "Lemme out! I'm gonna drown in here!"
"Leorio!" Gon cried out.
"Don't worry you have a chance to save him if anyone can buzz in, answer correctly, and pay $200 worth of value to win his freedom. So, can we get to the next question?"
Kurapika rang in.
"Yes, Contestant Kurapika?"
"Ancient Worlds for $400."
The Game Lord asked. "This area between the Tigris and Euphrates River is known as the Cradle of Civilization."
Kurama rang in and whispered to Kurapika.
"What is Mesopotamia?" Kurapika asked.
"Correct, you and Kurapika gain $400. Do you wish to sacrifice $200 worth to save Leorio?"
Kurama answered. "Of course we do."
With that, the water stopped filling and Leorio sighed with relief.
"You jerk! You could've drowned me!"
"Contestants Kurama and Kurapika, you get to select the next category."
"$200 on Nen," Kurapika said.
"Name the four major principles of Nen."
Killua rang in. "What are Ten, Zetsu, Ren, and Hatsu?"
"Correct! Contestants Hiei and Killua gain $200!"
Gon smiled at Killua. "Glad you remembered that!"
Killua shrugged. "Piece of cake."
"Contests Hiei and Killua, choose the next category."
Although Hiei declined to choose, Killua went ahead.
"Video Games for $400."
"This rare video game has circulated through the black market and made available only to..."
Gon chimed in. "Oh! I know this! What is Greed Island?!"
"Correct! Contestants Yusuke and Gon gain $400."
Yusuke gave a thumbs up to Gon. "If we keep this up, none of us will get eliminated."
Upon hearing this, the Game Lord sneaked a devilish smirk. Don't be so sure about that.
Kurama attentively caught Game Lord's smirk and coldly glared.
"Contestants Gon and Yusuke, choose a category."
Yusuke pointed to Sports for $300. "I'll take that!"
"In the Mayan Ball Game, they used what kind of ball to play with on a stone court?"
There was brief silence over this answer. Just as Kurama was about to ring in, the Game Lord rang instead.
"Um, what is rubber?" The Game Lord answered the question to spite Kurama.
"When the hell did you join in as a contestant?!" Kuwabara spat out.
"He's just making it up along he goes!" Leorio exclaimed. "You're a cheater, jerkface!" He pointed to the sneaky dark agent.
Game Lord waved his cue cards over his face. "Oh, what's the harm in a host playing along? At least none of you got the answer wrong and get eliminated like the poor sap who called me a jerk-face. How rude."
"Why you...!" Leorio gritted hard.
A host that makes his own rules along he goes. He does have the power to will or do whatever he wishes as long as he's in his territory. We can't attack. We are at his mercy, but when there's a will there's a way out of this. Kurama thought, already plotting to thwart the dark agent's underhanded methods. "Kurapika, are you able to hang on much longer?"
"As long as I don't get a question wrong, yeah."
"Good."
As round 1 progressed, Hiei got disqualified for attempting to attack the Game Lord when the dark agent fast counted the five seconds. Yusuke and Killua both got eliminated. Yusuke was placed in a demon shark tank. As for Killua, he was placed in a virtual world with a virtual copy of his older brother Illumi.
Needless to say, Killua froze on the spot seeing even a fake visual of his brother.
"Killua!" Gon screamed as he answered the Nen category for $500. "What is Water Divination?! And I'll use $200 of our value to save Killua's!"
"Correct! And now your friend's been saved from his situation!" Game Lord said as Killua rematerialized back on the stage.
Killua was down on a knee breathing hard. "...he felt so real."
"Yes, once you entered my territory, I was also able to scan each of your minds and therefore able to pull your darkest insecurities and bring them to life in my world."
"Killua!" Gon called to his friend.
Killua quickly came to as Gon's voice reached him. "...Gon? I'm... I'm back and alive?"
"It wasn't real, Killua! This guy's pulling stuff from our mind and turning it loose against us!"
Bzzzt!
"And that's the end of round 1. Next round, it will be the Wheel of Misfortune around!"
(End theme)
Kuwabara sighed with exasperation. "Geez, between pulling our darkest secrets from our minds and cheating, I don't think I can take much more of this!"
"Calm down, Kuwabara," Kurama reasoned with his overly passionate colleague. "He's pushing our mental limitations by constantly heckling us and interjecting during the game. This is exactly how the Goblin King plays."
"That's right!" Yusuke called out. "Don't let him get to y'all! My dumbass got eliminated 'cause I tried answering a question and then he cuts me off before I can finish! The prick's changing the rules as the game goes along!" He heard the water splash as the demon shark lunged at him to eat him whole.
"Yusuke, look out!" Gon cried out.
As he whirled around, Yusuke decked the demon shark and wrestled it into the water.
(Cue Hunter x Hunter 2011 OST – Hunter March)
"Ding, ding! Round 2 is getting underway!" Game Lord announced. "Contestants Kurama and Killua, you're in the lead so you get the privilege to have the wheel turned."
"We're ready," Kurapika replied.
"Rebecca, spin it!" Game Lord beckoned to an attractive blue-skinned woman with purple hair and garbed in an elaborate green dress.
Rebecca grabbed and spun the Wheel of Misfortune. As it spun, the Contestants were on the edge of their seats to see which of the 24 spots the pointer would fall on. The wheel slowed as everyone watched the pointer land on Ancient Worlds for $300.
"Ah, Ancient World category for $300. Contestants Kurama and Kurapika, are you ready?"
"Yes," Kurama replied.
"This ancient civilization sank to the bottom of the oce-"
Kuwabara rang in. "Oh! I think I got this!"
"Well then, do go on, Mr. Kuwabara." The dark agent invited him.
"Hmm, oh shoot, what's the name of it?"
"Is that your answer?"
"Huh?"
"You asked, what's the name of it?"
"No, no, that's not my answer! Hold on, lemme think...!"
Bzzzt!
"Times up," Game Lord said. "Can someone answer this question?"
Kurama rang in and whispered the answer to Kurapika.
"What is Atlantis?"
"Correct! Kurama and Kurapika are gaining ahead by miles!"
Kuwabara grumbled. "I knew it was Atlantis."
"Contestants Kurama and Kurapika, you may spin now if you wish."
Kurapika spun the wheel and waited as it landed on a Lose Turn slot.
"Oooh, so sorry but you've lost a turn! Who wishes to spin now?"
"I'll go," Gon spoke up. He spun the wheel as it landed on a Nen for $400 slot. Then to his dismay, the wheel flipper reverse turned and landed on a Lose Turn slot.
The Game Lord had a finger pressed on a button and whistled. "Oh, sorry, Contestant Gon. You lose a turn, too. You guys have such poor luck."
(End theme)
"Yeah, because we clearly saw you push a button to purposefully turn the wheel and intentionally cause Gon to lose his turn!" Leorio barked angrily at the host.
"What? My finger just slipped is all!" The Game Lord faked an excuse as he put on a sad sack face.
Killua sharpened his claws. "You pull a stunt like that again and I'll..."
"You do nothing, did you forget you can't attack me as long as my territory remains active?" The dark agent reminded them of the game's conditions. "Remember to get out of this, one of you has to win, but assessing your pitiful performances no one's leaving here. Kuwabara, would you like to spin the wheel now?"
Growling, Kuwabara grabbed the wheel and spun it. "We'll see who laughs loudest!"
The flipper landed on Super Bonus.
"Oh yeah! I'll show you, Game jerk...!" Kuwabara's mouth dropped as the flipper reversed turned on Bankruptcy. "WHAT?!"
With that, Kuwabara's value dropped to zero.
(Cue Hunter x Hunter 2011 OST – Try Your Luck)
"Oh, too bad, Mr. Kuwabara, but you're eliminated from the game! So sad, had you gotten the Super Bonus, you would've received a copy of the latest Dragon Quest game! Oh, whoops, did I just give away the prize?" Game Lord snapped his fingers, sending Kuwabara through a virtual screen where he was trapped with zombies.
"Whose turn is it?" Inquired the Game Lord, impatiently tapping his cards on his hand.
"Lemme out of this zombie show!" Kuwabara banged on the screen as the zombie horde closed on him. He summoned his Dimension Sword to cut his way through the screen, only to fall into a Dragon Quest arcade dimension. "Hey, where am I now?! Let me outta here, punk!"
"Hey doofus, you've fallen into the actual Dragon Quest game!" Yusuke called out to his friend.
"Huh? Really?" Kuwabara scanned the likeness of the Dragon Quest game. "This is so surreal."
"Oh, Dragon Quest, the curse of a certain writer out there," Game Lord shrugged, subtly alluding to a particular popular mangaka. Shaking his head, the dark agent resumed his hosting. "Spin, we can't keep the audience waiting," the dark agent stated.
"Yeah! Spin it already!" An audience member jeered the contestants.
"We don't got all day!"
Hiei brandished his sword and scared the audience into silence. The Game Lord sighed at Hiei's threatening gesture and watched Kurama spin the wheel. The flipper landed on the Ancient Worlds category for $500. Just as the Game Lord was about to cheat, Hiei shot a menacing glare at the host, causing him to lose track.
"Yes, I think I'll answer this one," Kurama said.
Game Lord scoffed. "Fine. All right, this ancient civilization created the earliest form of the writing system..."
Kurama rang in. "Who are the Sumerians?"
"Ugh, correct. And with that, Contestants Kurama and Kurapika, you have the highest value out of everyone and thus will face me in the final round."
"Nice work, guys!" Yusuke hollered.
"Yeah, congrats making it this far!" Gon addressed Kurama and Kurapika.
"Be vigilant, Kurama," Hiei warned his red-haired compatriot. "You and Kurapika may be playing into a trap if he continues his cheating ways."
"Yeah, Kurapika! Our fates are at stake here!" Leorio yelled out.
"Game Lord, before we start, we'd like to give $200 of our total amount to free Kuwabara," Kurama wagered.
"Are you sure?"
"Yes, because even if we lost $200, we're still in the lead," Kurapika said. "And actually, we'll give up another $200 to win Yusuke's freedom."
"Very well," Game Lord snapped his fingers, freeing both Kuwabara and Yusuke from their imprisonments. "All right, we begin the final round!"
Once the dark agent declared this, a round table materialized on the stage. Game Lord shuffled a deck of cards. Kurama and Kurapika seated themselves.
"I'm sure you're familiar with Old Maid?" Game Lord smirked, shuffling the deck of cards.
"Indeed," Kurama replied, staring diligently at Game Lord's hands.
"Oh, what's wrong? Think I'm going to cheat you?"
"That's what we're afraid of," Kurapika added candidly.
"You needn't worry. I shouldn't have to rig in order to beat you in Old Maid," Game Lord grinned. "And to be sure there's no interference..." With another finger snap, the other Detectives and Hunters became trapped in oversized cards.
"Hey, what's the big idea?!" Kuwabara spat out angrily.
"Let us out!" Leorio demanded.
"Can't do that. Who's to say you won't take a peek at their cards and give them pointers? If you want to earn your freedom, Contestants Kurama and Kurapika must win my game. And should they choose their cards unwisely, well their fate will be yours. Stuck to play games with me for all eternity! A lot of fun times to look forward to!"
"So, we're now playing for keeps," Kurapika stated, biting his bottom lip hard.
"Exact-a-mundo, my friend."
"Sorry, but we all got places and people to see!" Yusuke exclaimed.
"Kurama, Kurapika, we're counting on you!" Gon encouraged them.
Yusuke watched Kurama intently, recalling the last time Kurama was put in a similar situation he ended up murdering a child to save everyone. He wondered what lengths Kurama will go to exploit Game Lord's weakness and his cheating methods.
(End theme)
As he finished shuffling the cards, Game Lord dealt some to Kurama and Kurapika. Kurama and Kurapika checked their hands. Kurama and Kurapika checked each other's hands. Kurama discarded two sevens and Kurapika threw away two spades.
The game continued as the discards piled up.
"I do believe it's your turn, Game Lord," Kurama said, holding three cards in front.
(Cue Hunter x Hunter 2011 OST – All I Need is Money!)
"Hmm," Game Lord eyed each card. "Fine, I'll choose this one." He pointed to the leftmost one. He caught Kurama's sly smirk. Think you can throw me off. You've been meticulously eyeing me all three rounds. "Or, is it this one?" He pointed to the rightmost card, eliciting a collective look from the fox. I see! It's this one! You aren't fooling m-!
To his dismay, the Game Lord drew a joker in his hand.
"WHAT?! OH NO!"
Chortling, Kurama kept his cool. "Who's the fool now?"
Damn you! How could I, the Game Lord, have fallen for such a dubious ruse?! The gamer fumed.
Kurapika reached over for the center card in Game Lord's hand.
"Oh my! Just what I was waiting for you take that one!" Game Lord wailed flamboyantly, faking an enthused look.
"Oh yeah?" Kurapika asked, taking a seven spades card. "Ah, here!" He showed a matching card and placed it on the discard pile.
Scowling, Game Lord couldn't take the heat from his challengers. Can't believe he was able to figure it out! Most folks I've played against would think it's the blasted joker!
"Here," Kurama handed a card to Game Lord. "And I win."
"No... I mean, uh congrats Contestant Kurama."
"All right, way to go, Kurama!" Kuwabara cheered him.
"Kurama and Kurapika win! Now let us go, you gaming jerk!" Gon demanded.
"Yeah, just as you promised!" Yusuke exclaimed.
(End theme)
"Not yet!" Game Lord shouted.
"What?! Don't make me come down there, you cheating jerk!" Leorio snarled, his frustration with Game Lord's deceptive play growing to new levels.
"I'll let you all go until Contestant Kurapika wins!" Game Lord faced the Kurta Clansman.
"That's not fair! Kurama beat you already!" Kuwabara chided him.
"Well, looks like we're not getting out of here anytime soon," Killua sighed. "We can't even break loose from these things."
And if this fool's territory didn't bind my dark flames, I'd free myself and be done with these foolish games! Hiei thought, finding access to his Dragon of the Darkness Flames rendered inert.
"Hey! My game and my rules! If I want to keep adding new things to spice my game up, then I'm more than welcome! Besides, I've got to keep my audience engaged!" Game Lord said, motioning to the viewing audience, who cheered. "Yes, yes, it will be over soon, my wonderful fans."
The bias audience cheered for the Game Lord, much to the Detectives and Hunters' annoyance.
"Besides, if you don't abide by my rules, you'll never get out," Game Lord plainly said.
(Cue Casino Music 4 Poker Game – Midnight Piano Bar)
Kurama veered his eyes over to the Kurta Clansman. "Kurapika, be vigilant of his facial features before you choose a card."
"Right," he said as he scanned his king card. One is the king and the other is the joker. This would be much easier if this were a regular Old Maid, but since I'm playing this guy, I can't be too sure and trusting. Kurama, you're right I must be vigilant.
Waiting patiently, Game Lord glared intently at Kurapika. I've got to find a way to make him choose the joker. All right, here goes! He shuffled his deck quickly and dealt two facedown cards. "Now, even I can't tell which of them is the joker card! Think wisely before you choose."
So, this one card will decide everyone's fate as well as this dimension's fate. Kurapika, it's all on you. Kurama watched Kurapika deciding between the two face downs.
The Game Lord eyed the face downs, chuckling in thought. What they don't know is that earlier while I was shuffling, I bent the top left corner of the joker card. Now if I can pressure this kid, he'll pick the card I want him to! Oh, and it won't be long! These guys will remain my Contestants to play with forever!
Kurapika tapped the right side card.
"Oh, interesting. But, do you really want to pick that one?" Game Lord asked, cool as a cucumber while hiding his deceptiveness from Kurama.
Kurapika moved his hand to the left card.
"Yes, that would be the much better choice, Contestant Kurapika."
"Hey, Kurapika!" Gon called out to him. "Pick either one! It's fine!"
"Yeah, screw this up and we're all stuck here to be this freak's game slaves!" Leorio added sardonically.
"Pick the card you think is right!" Kuwabara barked.
Yusuke nodded to Kurapika. "If you're as anywhere as analytical as Kurama, then I trust you."
Hiei scoffed. "Our fates to be decided because of one card... ridiculous"
"Well, you can tell that the next time we see our pals Yugi and his friends," the lead Detective said.
"Kurapika," Kurama smiled to his game partner. "This is like a game of concentration."
(End theme)
"Right," Kurapika said as he picked the right side card. It was a King. "I did it!"
Game Lord growled upon seeing this.
"Excellent perception, Kurapika," Kurama praised him.
"See that, jerk?! Now send our asses out of here and leave Gon's world!" Yusuke demanded.
"Kurama and Kurapika both won fair and square! So, let us go!" Gon shouted.
Game Lord got up and turned away. "I don't remember making such a promise. Audience! Rebecca, did I make any promises to these Contestants?!"
"NO!" The audience jeered.
"What?! That tears it!" Leorio growled.
"You've been playing dirty this whole time and screwed us worse than prostitutes on a good night!" Kuwabara roared.
"Say what you will, but I'm not leaving this dimension nor am I letting you go alive!" Game Lord declared as his right hand glowed with energy. "I'll warp my whole dimension and merge it with your friends' world! Every living person shall be subjected to playing games with me. And with my ability to alter reality to my will, none can beat me!"
(Cue Yu Yu Hakusho OST – Kurama's Theme (1:04-1:56)
Suddenly, a long thorn vine flung across and pierced Game Lord's back. The dark agent cringed in pain and jumped back glaring down Kurama.
"Since we beat you, your taboo powers against violence have diminished. Seems your powers to alter reality haven't been perfected just yet," Kurama whipped his Rose Whip around.
Kurapika readied his switchblade. "It's over. Release us now!"
"I was already onto you from the start, Game Lord. The only reason you've deemed yourself master is that you're a lord of your dimension, but when it comes to games you require underhanded ploys to throw off superior players," Kurama blatantly called out on Game Lord's rigging of his gaming system. He remained calm in the face of Game Lord's agitated mood. "And yes I saw through your deceptive action when you bent that last card. Any player familiar with Old Maid would figure out those ploys."
(3:01-3:15)
"Did you really think I'd fall for that?" Kurapika frowned at Game Lord. "I'm no amateur in card games. You've lost, Game Loser."
(End theme)
Wasting no time, Kurama used his whip to break the cards sealing his friends and the Hunters. As the Detectives and Hunters surrounded Game Lord, Rebecca hurried over to her host. The audience vanished from the stands as a result of Game Lord's power of his dimension diminished.
"Please! Stop! You win! I surrender!" Game Lord got down on his knees and pleaded.
(Cue Hunter x Hunter 2011 OST – Donkies)
"Please, don't hurt him!" Rebecca pleaded. "He only wanted some skilled players to play with! You see, he's been lonely and he created me to keep him company. But, it wasn't enough!"
"Yes, and when we happened in this world, we were shown a world ripe full of skilled game players. By doing so, we'd spread the negative energy to destroy this world and its physical universe," the Game Lord openly confessed. "I was originally meant to destroy this world, but with time I developed an individuality of my own... and found a new purpose. Through my journey across the Nexus, I witnessed smiling faces of happy children and grown folks enjoying the leisure activity of games. I witnessed how games would bring friends and families together. I figured I'd do the same."
"Yeah, but you didn't have to lure people like us into a trap and cheat when things don't go your way," Gon said.
"Cheating and toying with people's lives just ain't right," Kuwabara said.
"This still doesn't change how things went down here," Leorio chastised Game Lord.
"I know... and as promised I'll let you all free and leave this world," Game Lord said. As he snapped his fingers, a screen showed other contestants he played against and defeated. "And I'll let all the people from this world I've captured free, too."
"Glad you're making good on your promise," Gon genuinely smiled over Game Lord's change of heart.
"So, you vow never to use underhanded means again?" Kurama asked Game Lord.
Nodding, Game Lord snapped his fingers and all his captives vanished. "Yes, and you all shall be free."
"About time," Yusuke said, rubbing the back of his neck. "This place's a little too cramped for my liking."
"Kurama and Kurapika," Game Lord addressed the duo. "Well played and a good game."
"And next time, learn to play fairly," Kurapika said.
"But, won't you, Rebecca, and your pocket dimension cease since Kurama and Kurapika beat you?" Killua asked him.
"Perhaps, but we'll sure where fate takes us next, but we won't be spreading our dark energy to carry out our original mission."
"Can you tell us who created you?" Kurama asked.
"No, I can't say... not that I'm deceiving you, but I'm not privy to those details. But, let me warn you, be careful," Game Lord warned the Detectives and Hunters.
Then, the entire dimension became engulfed in white light. Game Lord and Rebecca vanished. The Detectives and Hunters were promptly teleported from the pocket dimension.
(End theme)
xxxxx
Yorknew City
The next thing they knew, the Detectives and Hunters were transported right in the heart of Yorknew.
"Huh, well, wasn't that something?" Leorio blinked thrice.
"We're in Yorknew," Killua meticulously scanned the metropolis.
"So, he carried out his promise," Kuwabara sighed. "But, man, am I glad to be back on physical ground!"
Yusuke approached Kurama and Kurapika. "And we couldn't have done it without you two."
"Yeah, thanks, Kurapika," Gon expressed his gratitude.
Both Kurama and Kurapika smiled at each other.
xxxxx
Outside Yorknew City
(Cue Hunter x Hunter 2011 OST – Towards Setting Sun)
Upon arriving at the designated portal, the Spirit Detectives and the Hunters bid their farewells before the former group's departure.
"Gon, it was fun!" Yusuke waved to the young Hunter.
"Yeah, hopefully, you can come back," Gon replied eagerly.
"Maybe. You and Killua beat that Greed Island game for me! And good luck finding your pops!"
"Sure thing!"
Killua and Hiei merely exchanged quiet nods.
"Hopefully if we meet again, you can show me that black dragon."
"It'd normally advise against it."
"Well, if you say so," Killua gave a curt smile.
Kuwabara and Leorio exchanged manly handshakes.
"Leorio, go fulfill that dream of being that doctor you wanted."
"Thanks, Kuwabara."
Kurama and Killua shook one another's hands.
"Thanks for backing me up there, Kurama."
"No, it was you alone that determined the outcome of that last play. Kurapika, don't forget this experience."
"Goodbye, Yusuke and everyone!" Gon called out to the Detectives, who stepped through the portal.
As the portal closed, the Hunters shortly went back to their separate ways. Leorio returned to resume his medical studies. Kurapika departed Yorknew to resume his search for the scarlet eyes. Gon and Killua left together to participate in Greed Island.
Despite this being a one-off case for the Detectives, they'd never forget their encounter with the Hunters. And there may be hope that one day these two parties would meet again.
(End theme)
xxxxx
Nexus
Drifting through the Nexus, particles of black smoke turned white. From this smoke, two figures reformed. Once their bodies physically materialized, the Game Lord and Rebecca became fully regenerated. Game Lord now sported a white suit and dark shoes.
(Cue Hunter x Hunter 2011 OST – I Ain't Yer Grandpa)
Once getting a bearing of his surroundings, the Game Lord glanced over his renewed body.
"I.. I've been given a second chance?" Game Lord wondered in bewilderment. "Rebecca?"
"Yes? My master?"
"No, you needn't call me that anymore. We're both free it seems."
"Free from carrying out from what we were originally created for?"
Game Lord replied with a determined look. "Yes, from now on we'll be spreading happiness and joy to all the people who live for games."
"But, where could we find a place to set up shop to entertain the crowds?"
"Rebecca, there's one place I know where we can set up our game show. Yes, it's the biggest pit stop in the entire Nexus. The Disney World of all dimensions. It's the perfect place for entertainers like ourselves."
Rebecca nodded eagerly. "And this place is called?!"
"Across Conventions. Now, come, Rebecca, we have new crowds and gleaming faces to entertain!" The ex-dark agent flew across the Nexus with his lovely assistant.
(End theme)
xxxxx
(Cue Neurotech – Compass)
xxxxx
Dimension: YYGDM-01/Shinjuku District/Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building/Legend HQ/September 2011
"Geez, you're so lucky, Yusuke! I wish me and my friends could've gone!" Yui Tsubasa, lead Neo-Spirit Detective, and Yusuke's successor, cried out. "I so wanted to meet Gon."
"Well, I did tell him possibly, but there's a chance," Yusuke added with a grin.
"Make sure and take me along if you do," she said.
"You and Kurapika beat this dark agent in his own game?" Aoshi asked Kurama. "Then again, I'm not surprised. You were there to make it count."
"Well, I can't take all the credit. Kurapika played his hand as well as me."
Cammy pointed to Hiei. "Hold on, you mean Killua sounds almost like my sister Rei?"
"If she had a gruffer voice, then yes."
"Interesting, I can't wait to see how sis will react to this."
"Wow, this Leorio sounds like a super nice guy, Kazuma," Yukina said.
"Yeah, and best of all he's becoming a doctor! So, he's going places!"
"Well, it sounds like y'all had a fun time," Kohana sighed. "But, seriously next time, take us along."
"Hahah, sure thing, guys. It just has to come at the right time," Yusuke said. "Now to tell RJ and his friends about this. They're not gonna believe what we've been..."
Just then, Raizen Jr, aka RJ for short, stormed in and confronted his father.
"Dad, tell me all that freakin' happened!"
The Detective chuckled nervously. "Well, we've got all day to tell."
"About?" Koori asked as she and Ryuuhi walked right in. She noticed Hiei. "Dad, you've got a lot to tell." She sat down eagerly anticipating his encounter with the Hunters.
"I bet y'all had quite the adventure," Ryuuhi said.
"Well, since we have time to kill, why not? It all started..." Yusuke started his tell his group's account in the Hunter world.
xxxxx
Next chapter: Whismon's Training
xxxxx
A/N: Ok, so this wasn't a total fight fest, but I did allude (previous chapter even) this would be an out of the norm chapter. So, I went with some game gimmicks (but no Dragon Quest games, but an easter egg reference!). Games are totally Togashi's thing.
I made a dark agent that's different from what we've seen up to now. One with a personality and could offer something unorthodox to challenge the Detectives and Hunters with.
Pairing the Detectives and Hunters was fairly easy. Fanart crossovers certainly helped. :D
Game Lord, while he seems like an Alex Trebek expy, I've imagined him voiced by different VA.
The Old Maid game I based entirely from Hotaru and Chibiusa playing Old Maid against a Daimon from episode 118 of the S season.
And just what is this Across Conventions? Well, you'll find out in roughly 7-8 chapters from now. It'll be a place Game Lord will feel right at home in.
If you're absolutely lost on the whole 'Killua sounds like Rei/Sailor Mars' thing, it's an in-joke since both characters are voiced by the same English VA (Cristina Vee), which is funnier because YYGDM Hiei is YYGDM Mars' boyfriend. Togashi vs Takeuchi crossover at its finest.
Anyway, yeah a shorter chapter than usual, but Game Lord was pretty much the only enemy in this chapter (not counting the mooks).
Hope you enjoyed this Togashi tribute. And I managed to shoehorn in Tai, X, BW, and others to remind readers this is still very much a Digimon Fusion/Kai series.
Next chapter, we shall return to DFKai activities as Matt and Tai seek training from a certain attendant of Beerusmon. So while we cut away from usual dimension missions, expect some fun training with various cast members next time!
Until the next monthly update, send a review and see you soon!