A/N: Ok, apparently there are issues with the site and some may be not getting email notifications for my latest updates for this story. Let me know if you're getting notifications or not via PM or my email (if you know it). And I wonder why I've gotten lower views and reviews lately.
That issue aside, let's not delay further!
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Digimon Fusion Ascendancy
Arc II: Dimension Missions
Chapter XII: Prelude - Dimension Missions
xxxxx
Digital World/Azulongmon's Realm/5:45 PM
Everyone present were in a state of bewilderment meeting the Lost Kingdom group. This group consisted of heroes from an alternate YYGDM timeline that branched off the main YYGDM-01 dimension. The dimension coordinates of this world is GCLK-1113.
The leader, Shu Ouma, came with his friends, consisting of his friends, Gai Tsutsugami, Inori Yuzuriha, Mana Ouma, Madoka Kaname, Homura Akemi-Ouma, and the Incubator known as Kyubey. What's strange about this motley crew was not even the fact they came from an alternate timeline, but they were a group of characters from different anime series somehow in a shared universe.
Then again, if the heroes learned one thing: shared universe dimensions are not that uncommon in the Nexus. The Digidestined and the warriors of DF-616, the heroes of YYGDM-01, and Kensuke's crew from XLR-8 can vouch for that.
(Cue Guilty Crown OST – Friends)
"Thank you for inviting us," Shu openly addressed the Trinity of Digiteams. He pivoted over to X and smiled. "We couldn't have done this without you."
"No, the pleasure's mine," X replied.
"Wow, look at all the friendly faces!" Madoka scanned around, eagerly wanting to meet the Trinity.
Homura smiled to Madoka. "We have all the time in the world to get to know them."
"Wowzers," Mana blinked, glancing around at the variety of faces. "Look at who's here!"
"Yes, the various Chosen teams, or Digidestined as they're also otherwise called," smirked Gai, eyeing the Ascendants, Digidestined, and the other warriors first. "We've heard accounts of your heroic actions from X."
"Nice, then he clued you in on some of us being super powered?" Tai asked.
"Indeed."
"Ascendants, right? We're dying to see y'all in action," Shu smiled with anticipation.
"Man, this is so cool!" Takato exclaimed as he approached Shu. "It's always good to meet other heroes from other worlds."
"Likewise!" Shu turned to Takato. "Takato Matsuda, I presume?"
"But, how did you know my name? I haven't even introduced myself."
"Long story short, in our dimension, you, Takuya Kanbara, Yugi Muto, Sailor Moon, Yusuke Urameshi, Sailor Sedna, and Valkyrie Brunhilde were considered the Big 7 heroes of our dimension," Gai explained without going too deep into details. "Your teams have been instrumental in preserving the peace of our times... at least a decade ago. Let's just say your era ended with tragedy, but we rose to continue your fight."
"So, then your timeline splintered off theirs," Dimitri addressed.
"Precisely," Homura replied, turning to Dimitri. "I can see you're a time traveler."
"Well, was. I don't do much time traveling these days."
"Probably for the best, Dimitri Ishida."
"How do you know my name? This is the first we've met..."
Homura flicked her hair back, coolly smirking. "How can I not know you? Us time travelers tend to know about others journeying through the Nexus."
"Then, good to finally meet another time traveler."
"Likewise."
Karin smiled watching Dimitri and Homura shake hands.
"Hey, don't they look familiar?" Christina whispered to Karin. "They look like..."
"Yeah, in our dimension, they're characters from a TV show, but in other dimensions they're as real as us," Karin said.
"You think a certain time traveler with a blue box exists out there in the Nexus?" Christina wondered.
The Kuiper leader added. "I wouldn't doubt it."
"Wow, it's Madoka Kaname!" Athena shouted as she, PinkPatamon, Meryl, and Salamon grouped around her. Her eyes lit up like glittery stars seeing one of her favorite magical girl heroes. "I'm dreaming, am I?!"
"Is she something special?" Meryl asked Athena, curiously looking over Madoka.
"Yeah, she's an awesome magical girl just like my mom and Sailor Moon!" Athena added, eliciting a giggle from Madoka.
"Well, it's good to meet fans of mine," Madoka smiled, patting both Athena and Meryl. She looked down to Athena. "I actually know you and your mom in the dimension I met Shu and his friends."
"Wait, there's another me?" Athena asked, her mouth dropped upon hearing this.
Karin approached Madoka. "So, I happen to be alive in Shu's dimension?"
"Yep, except she's a little older than you," Madoka turned to Karin. "Though, you and her still look very much alike. She hasn't aged much like you!"
"I see," the Kuiper leader was pleased hearing this.
"Well, it's nice to meet you all, but what I'd like to know where you and your friends are going to be staying?" Tai asked Shu and his group.
"Well, it's been decided we'll be staying here in your dimension," Shu said. "And we'll stay for however long these missions through the dimensions last."
"Don't worry, Simms will cover finding a place for them," X reassured Tai and the others.
(End theme)
"So, remind us. What are we looking for?" Asked Gai.
"Whismon, are you still there?" X asked the deity, who reappeared on the visual.
(Cue Dragon Ball Xenoverse OST – Vs. Beerus and Whis)
"Yes, I'm still here. So good to have more hands on deck. Now, listen carefully..." Whismon explained once again about the dangerous anomalies that've infiltrated and started affecting dimensions across the Nexus. "And so even I'm unable to determine the exact origin of these anomalies. All I know is their presences are malignant to these dimensions. If not removed from a precise dimension, that world will be infected and ultimately cease to exist. We're talking catastrophic end results."
"So, in other words, we've purging computer crashing viruses from data banks within a system," Izzy referenced.
"Good way of putting it, Izzy!" Tentomon said.
"Either way, we have a ton of a work ahead for us," Sora added.
"Yeah, but we'll get it done," Tai smirked. "With so many of us here and our other dimension friends, we've have so many groups to cover these dimensions. Don't forget we have Karin. Takato and Takuya have their Ryo. Kensuke, I think you have the power to open dimension doors?"
"Yeah, I do to a degree," Kensuke replied.
"Me, too, I can open doorways into other dimensions," Madoka spoke up, to which got Tai's attention.
"It's true. It's how we got to your world," Shu spoke for Madoka.
"Great, then we'll have plenty of hands to help us cross over into these dimensions," the Bearer of Courage said.
"As X suggested, we should limit the number of groups that go at once," BanchoLeomon reminded them. "We don't need to flood the Nexus with a bunch of our groups."
"That ok with y'all?" Tai asked Shu's group.
"We're cool with whatever you say. We have all the time in the world until our turn," Shu said. "In the meantime, we'll hang low in your world."
"So, when can we expect the first dimension mission?" Asked Matt.
X answered Matt's query. "You'll know with time, but I don't expect too long."
"Yes, it's apparent you get on the ball sooner than later. These anomalies aren't going to be resolved on their own," Whismon informed them. "Utilize your resources to the best of your abilities. Bringing balance to the Nexus is paramount."
"Don't worry we will, Lord Whismon," Tai nodded to the deity. "Thanks for giving us a heads-up on this."
"And we'll get on this right away!" X vowed to see this mission move forward.
Whismon smiled genuinely. "I know you will. By the way, one last thing before I leave you all. Tai and Matt, the door is still open for training on Lord Beerusmon's world. Just make sure your dear friend, Mimi, offers me a delicious treat." He shifted over to Mimi, who stood with an oblivious look on her face. "How about it, Miss Mimi?"
"Me?" Mimi pointed to herself. "Give you something delicious in return of letting Tai and Matt train with you?"
"I think it's a fair deal. What do you say?"
Bearing a smile, Mimi responded in kind. "You're on! Just for Tai and Matt to get stronger, I accept your challenge!"
"Mimi, are you sure about this?" Sora asked her.
"Why not? You want our boys to get stronger than Ascendant Gods?" Mimi shot back.
"Count me in, Mimi!" Palmon chimed in, jumping up and lifting her hands.
Matt smirked at this idea and turned to Tai. "Don't take this personally if I decide to take advantage of this, Tai. There may not even come another chance for me to obtain Ascendant God."
The Bearer of Courage simply shrugged. "Sure, don't let me stop ya."
Upon hearing this, Matt grinned over his advantage. "Good, I can't let this pass me." This remark earned him a concerned look from Keke.
"And with that, I wish you luck, heroes. Now if you'll excuse me, I must return to check back on Lord Beerusmon. Ciao!" Whismon waved everyone goodbye as he vanished from the visual.
(End theme)
Turning to face everyone, X cleared his throat. "I don't think I need to more clearer for anyone here? Then, you understand the dilemma we now face."
"That's good and all, but how many squads of us do we need to get this done?" Takuya asked the masked watcher.
"As many as we can. Now, I personally think squads of 4-6 people should be enough. We don't want to overcrowd groups," X quickly suggested.
"That's a good idea," Tai concurred with X. "That way we don't attract too much attention in these dimensions we go to."
"And since there's many of us, there's a chance not every one of us will have a chance to go on these dimension travels," Joe spoke up. "Some of us still have priorities back home."
"C'mon, Joe! Don't ya wanna see other heroes and awesome people in other worlds?! This might be a once in a lifetime chance opportunity, buddy!" Gomamon tried a persuasive tone to convince his partner. "Better to get out of that house for a while."
"Gomamon's right, Joe," Mimi beamed and laughed toward Joe. "You could call it a vacation just without the frequent air miles! And you don't even have to pay for your flight!"
"Nice way of putting it, Mimi," Palmon giggled.
Dimitri chuckled. "Count on my mom to convince someone out of a dilemma."
"That's our mom," Keke shared a laugh with Dimitri. "Say, Dimitri, you noticed dad's caught that obsessive bug again?"
"Well, since Tai became this Ascendant God, he's found a new goal to reach, but at least he's not a dismissive jerk toward us about it."
"That's true, Dimitri. Glad it's dad and not the Yamato persona who's seeking to outdo Tai."
Kensuke interjected, eyeing Matt keenly. "Better Matt than that jerk Yamakins, I guess. I've still got my eye on him."
"C'mon now, Ken," Christina tugged on Kensuke's arm. "We didn't come here to fight each other."
"Of course," Kensuke said, calming and lowering his tone in a kinder manner. He blushed as Christina leaned her head on him.
"So, anyway we will keep all of you posted and up to date," X informed everyone present. "Simms and I will send for messengers to bring those we've selected to harbor the responsibility of leading a squad. For instance, just now, I'm considering of calling Tai and Agumon to possibly lead a group into a dimension."
"Really? Us first?" Agumon inquired to the masked watcher.
"Not surprised you're going to let me lead a group, but I'm not complaining," Tai openly replied without dissent.
"If he's going to be leading a group, then assign me a group as well for one of the first missions," Matt insisted as he walked up to X and Tai. "Just pair me up with a group who's capable of getting the job done."
"We actually were discussing that, Matt," X spoke up, backing off from Matt's hostile approach. "Rest assured you'll be seeing a mission soon enough."
"That's what I'd like to hear."
"Would you be ok with Keke going with you?"
Furrowing his brows, Matt answered. "I have no objection to that. She's more than capable of getting work done. In fact, I'd be fine if it were just me, Gabumon, and her."
"Well, we gotta give others a chance to work with you, too."
"Fine, just find me some good hands then. I can accept Dimitri to join us."
Tai sighed with a grin. "Man, the Yamato persona might be good, but bits of his competitive spirit remain in you, Matt. You just refuse to let me get ahead in anything."
"Only because I refuse to sit around while you're off on some adventure. And besides, this will be a perfect boredom killer."
"Ain't that the truth!" Tai laughed genuinely.
"X, have you decided who could go with Tai?" Takato asked him. "I'd like to volunteer unless you've picked a squad for him."
"Yeaaah, about that," X shook his head dismissively. "Sorry, Takato, but I have decided a squad for Tai and Agumon. You'll be leading your Tamer team on a mission."
"Ah man!" The Warrior of Suzaku responded half-disappointed, but maintained a smile etched on his face. "But, that's cool! At least I'll be leading my crew on some mission!"
"Should be fun," Himura nodded.
"As long it's some place exciting and not mundane," Rika added.
"Tai, I'll let you know soon enough who you'll be leading, but I think you won't be disappointed," X muttered to the Bearer of Courage.
"Cool, I can't wait for it."
"Hey, so when will we be shown our new residency in this dimension?" Shu eagerly asked X.
"Shu, you can afford to wait," Gai scoffed at his overly enthused friend.
"Oh yeah about that! Shu, can you and your friends sit tight for a few?" X whispered to him. "Don't worry me and Simms will show your new place."
"The first thing I'm gonna do the minute we get in our new place is find some new clothes," Mana said, checking over her clothing. "Inori, maybe you, Madoka, and Homura wanna go shopping around in the local area?"
"Sure, that'd be fun," Inori nodded with a half smile.
"I'd like to come!" Madoka chimed in.
"I'll pass," Homura turned away until Mana placed a hand on her shoulder. "Huh?"
"No, no! I must insist!" Mana pulled Homura into a hug, rubbing the dark-haired girl's face against her chest. While the Puella girl was being breast smothered, she barely noticed Homura's cheeks turning pink. "There's no way you're getting left out, my HomuHomu!" She sweetly referred the pet name she's given to Homura. She yanked Homura away, noticing the girl's eyes spiraling around back and forth. "Whoops, guess I overdid it?"
Gai sighed at his girlfriend's eccentric behavior. "Overdoing it is mildly putting it, Mana."
"Don't worry the place we've found is at least a two bedroom," X said to the Lost Kingdoms group. "We can have a bunk bed arranged since Madoka and Homura might live with you. And don't worry, you guys will be compensated with ID cards, too," X pivoted over to the Lost Kingdoms group again. "You might be given fake aliases. Why? Well, because in the DF-616 dimension, Madoka and Homura will have already existed as fictional characters seen on TV anime shows. This is done to avoid y'all getting crowded by fanatics."
"Aww, but I'd love to meet my adoring fans if they knew I was a real character!" Mana boasted happily.
"But, X already alluded to us not yet existing in any fictional medium in this dimension. Still, even if people found out we were fictional characters come to life, we don't want to draw too much attention to ourselves!" Shu reasoned with her.
"No offense, but I don't think giving us fake aliases will be enough. If what you say about us being TV characters in this world is true, they'll surely recognize us by our looks," Gai argued.
"Well, that's true. We'll figure something out until then," X countered.
"But, I'm totally psyched to explore a whole new world!" Madoka cried out gleefully.
"I wonder if there could be potential girls to make contracts with..." Before Kyubey could finish, he felt cold metal being pressed to his head. He barely turned his eyes to see Homura with a pistol pointed to him.
Homura threatened with her usual cold, aloof expression. "Try that and you die, Incubator."
"Gosh, can't take a joke?" The tiny creature retorted, maintaining his creepy and expressionless smile in the face of Homura's gun.
"Anyway, I consider this a fresh new start for us," Shu turned to his circle of friends. He noted the smiles on Gai, Inori, Mana, Madoka, and Homura's faces. "Especially after all we've endured in our world."
"It's just too bad the others back home can't share this excitement with us," Madoka said.
"Don't worry, we'll go back and visit them anytime we want, Madoka," Homura reassured her pink-haired friend.
"And speaking for all my friends, let me be the first to say 'welcome'," Tai said to the Lost Kingdoms crew.
With that, the arrangements have been made and new friendships have been formed. The first set of dimension missions have yet to be determined, but soon enough Tai and Matt will lead squads into different dimensions to find and neutralize these strange anomalies affecting them.
Shortly after, other squads would be sent to do the same but in different worlds.
xxxxx
As they found a place away from the adults, Athena & PinkPatamon and Meryl & Salamon exchanged gifts with each other.
"Thanks for the friendship bracelet, Athena," Meryl said, tying a multi-colored bead bracelet around her left wrist. "I will cherish it!"
"And thanks for the cookies," Athena said, holding a bag of cookies. "Oh, I forgot? I brought something you might like!"
"What is it?"
PinkPatamon shuddered. "Something very creepy."
"Aw, no it's not!" Athena giggled, setting down her backpack. She opened it up and pulled out something that made Meryl's eyes gleam.
"Whoa! That's a cute doll, Athena!" Meryl gazed misty-eyed at white-haired female Lolita doll covered in dark clothing. "Can I hold it?"
"Sure." Athena handed the doll to Meryl, who examined it closely.
"See? Ain't that thing just give you the willies?" PinkPatamon's face turned blue at the sight of the doll.
"No way! It's a doll I'd want in my collection!" Meryl held the doll overhead.
"Uncle Ken gave it to me for my birthday."
"Aw, that's nice of him. Your uncle's a very sweet guy."
"He's very sweet when he's not fighting."
Meryl handed the doll to Athena. "So, who do you admire more? Your uncle, your dad, Matt, or Tai?"
"That's a very hard question for me," Athena stood wondering the same thing.
"Oh, let me introduce you to my partners?" Meryl asked Athena, showing her to BlackGatomon and Gatomon. "Well, you already know about BlackGatomon, but say hi to Gatomon."
"Wow, she looks like Kari's Gatomon!" Athena looked over Meryl's Gatomon.
"But I'm no less sassy like her," Gatomon bowed. "Nice to meet you, Athena."
"ATHENA!" Came Karin and Dimitri's voices from far off.
"MERYL!" Tai was also heard from the distance.
"Aw, we better go!" The girls shouted together. "We're coming!"
xxxxx
Odaiba, Tokyo/'Vacant House Space'/Dimension: DF-616/7:30 PM
The Lost Kingdoms group were escorted into their new living space. They gazed in awe, surveying an almost empty house with nice furnishings. Tai & Agumon, Sora & Biyomon, X, and Simms watched the Lost Kingdoms group explore their new surroundings.
(Cue Madoka Magica OST – A Happy Scene)
"Wow, this place is perfect!" Madoka's cheery voice could be heard from the other side.
"It's much better on the eyes than the dump we used to hide out in," Gai gazed around, approving of their new home.
"Ah! You can even get a great view of the city!" Mana poked her head out a window. "It's so beautiful!"
"What do you think, Inori?" Shu asked the songstress.
"I like it," Inori smiled to him. "Are you ok with it?"
"More than ok. I love it. It kinda reminds me of... home," Shu reflected to his living with his stepmother Haruka Ouma.
Homura checked over the house security. "Good to know this place is already installed."
"I made sure everything suits your needs, my friends," Simms said.
"We can't thank you enough," Shu addressed Simms.
"We'll give you guys time to adjust and explore the city before we call you up for missions," X addressed the Lost Kingdoms group.
"We'll take as much time as needed," Gai said. "But, we will come when you require our services. In fact, consider our services as payment for this wonderful home and roof you've provided us."
Tai chimed in with a grin. "Ah, it's not a prob, guys! In fact, me and my friends plan to drop by!"
"By the way, Miss Ouma?" Sora addressed Mana.
"Yeah?"
"You asked if there's some places to shop? Well, I know a few."
"Really?! Can you show us now?!"
Sora nodded. "Sure, we've got time."
Mana quickly grabbed Homura's hand. "C'mon, HomuHomu, we're overdue for some new clothes!" She blew a kiss to Gai on her way out. "See you in a bit, 'Triton'! We won't take long!"
"Wait, hold on...!" Homura cried out, finding herself being dragged along against her will. She tried to pry free, but Mana's grip was vice-like to break loose.
"Hold on! Wait for me!" Madoka called out. She stopped as she faced Tai, X, and Simms. She gave them polite curtsy bows. "Thank you all, friends. We'll never forget this." She then bolted out after Mana and Homura.
"Shu, I'll be back later," Inori kissed him on the cheek.
"Have fun," Shu waved his girlfriend off.
As Inori left with Sora, the men were left to converse.
"Shu, you have one sweet girlfriend," Agumon said.
"Thanks, she's actually a great singer. Maybe one day she can give us a performance."
"There's a karaoke in town. Maybe she can show us her singing talents there," Tai offered. He looked over to Gai. "Man, your girl, Mana, is sure crazy, huh?"
"Yes, well..." Gai coughed. "But, that's what makes her unique. Though with how she behaves around Homura, she can be considered Bi."
"Hey, no judgment here," X nodded.
"So, what do you suppose these anomalies are?" Shu wondered.
"Your guess is as good as ours," Tai admitted his ignorance. "But, we'll get to the bottom of this."
(End theme)
xxxxx
Odaiba, Tokyo/Victoria's Store/7:50 PM
Mana's laughter could be heard from the opposite side of the store. Sora, Biyomon, Madoka, and Inori waited outside the dressing rooms for Mana and Homura. The curtains quickly opened, revealing Mana in a hot pink mini dress with a black sleeveless top and long black fingerless gloves.
"Tada!" Mana gleefully announced, walking out and spinning around before striking a model pose. "How do I look?"
Madoka clapped. "It looks cute on you, Mana!"
Inori smiled genuinely to her 'sister'. "I agree, it looks good on you, Mana."
"Um, so where's Homura?" Madoka inquisitively asked Mana.
Mana turned around waiting for Homura to come out. "Oh, c'mon don't be so shy HomuHomu! They wanna see!" Grinning devilishly, the pink-haired Eve pulled Homura forward. "Get a load of Homura with a complete makeover!"
Homura meekly stepped out, looking like a complete opposite of what Madoka is used to seeing. Homura came out garbed in a velvet black dress and cute red high-heel sandals. Her hair was done in her old hairstyle: braided twin-tails. If there was anything to illustrate Homura's awkward position, it would be her flushing face while everyone gawked at her.
"Madoka, please don't laugh..."
Madoka smiled, clapping her hands together. "Why would I laugh? You look so adorable!"
"Really? You think so?" The time traveler looked down over herself.
"Madoka's right. It's very cute," Sora concurred with the pink-haired Puella's opinion.
"Yes, I should you should get it," Inori approved as well.
Mana patted Homura's back. "See? I told you they'd like it! I think you'd look even cuter with glasses on!"
"No, this is more than enough," Homura insisted. "Please, Mana!"
"Oh, all right."
The other ladies laughed together while Madoka snapped pictures of Mana with Homura.
Meanwhile, Kyubey poked his head out of a pile of clothes and monitored the girls. He pounced, startling a few customers. He quickly sprinted over to Madoka and hopped on her right shoulder.
"Kyubey? Where did you go?" Madoka asked him.
"Just closely making observations of the Homo sapiens sapiens that inhabit this dimension. As per usual, there's nothing different about them from Shu Ouma's world."
"Say, don't you think Homura looks cute, Kyubey?" Madoka pointed to the dark-haired time traveler, who stood still wearing the velvet dress.
Homura narrowed her eyes to Kyubey, who still maintained a blank expression. Both exchanged looks briefly. Kyubey tilted his head to one side.
"What?" Homura muttered coldly.
"I don't understand the concept of cute. What am I looking at, Madoka?"
Resisting the urge to draw her firearm and shoot the Incubator, Homura maintained her composure.
"I take it Simms provided you all money for expenses and all the necessities?" Sora asked the girls.
Inori answered with a nod. "Yes, he did. And we have enough to buy us some new clothes."
"I think I'll take this!" Mana said, walking back to the dressing room to take off her pink and black dress. "Homura, buy that dress and get some other clothes. too!"
Homura grumbled. "Just don't overspend, Mana. Gosh, this is embarrassing."
"Yeah, I think we're going to enjoy being here, Sora," Madoka turned to Bearer of Love, who shared a smile with her. "Homura..."
"Yeah, Madoka?"
"Don't you think we'll have a lot of fun here? We'll get to do a lot of things together we never had the chance to do!"
Realizing she and Madoka would spend more time together, Homura couldn't complain. She looked forward to settling down in a new world with her closest friend.
"So, where to next?" Sora asked the girls.
"Well, is there a karaoke place?" Inori inquired.
Upon hearing this, Mana zipped right over to Inori.
"Did someone say, karaoke?!"
"I know just the place," Sora offered.
xxxxx
Karaoke Bar/8:15 PM
Not long after their shopping spree, Sora and Biyomon took their guests to the local karaoke bar. Inori and Mana were the star attractions that evening as young couples were drawn to their singing duet. Sora & Biyomon, Madoka, and Homura sat together watching their two friends.
Madoka sipped her soda pop and turned over to Homura. "Hmm?" She noticed the dark-haired time traveler sneaking a smile. "Homura."
"Yeah, Madoka?"
"Want to get up there and sing?"
"Well, I..."
"C'mon, it'll be fun."
"If you insist," Homura adhered as Madoka took her hand and brought her up to stage.
(Cue Madoka Magica – Connect (TV Size))
Following Inori and Mana's duet, Madoka and Homura sang their duet. To their surprise, they sang the opening lyrics of their own TV show Connect.
A redhead punker girl whispered to her boyfriend. "Hey, don't those two look like Madoka and Homura?"
"Yeah, those are great cosplay!" The oblivious teenage guy yelled out.
Sora chuckled nervously. "Oh boy, at least they're buying into Madoka and Homura's likeness."
"Hey, Sora!" Mimi called out as she, Palmon, and Keke walked over to sit down with them. "I got your message. Did we miss anything?"
"You guys came just in time to see Madoka and Homura sing a duet," Biyomon pointed to the Puella girls on stage.
"Wow, they look great!" Mimi cheered them on. "Strut that stuff on stage, girls!"
Madoka and Homura exchanged smiles as they continued singing to their heart's content. Inori clapped for them. Mana, on the other hand, scoffed in jealousy over being upstaged by Madoka.
"That should me and HomuHomu up there."
As they finished, the audience stood up cheering them. Madoka and Homura embraced the cheers their fans were giving them. Little did these people know they were applauding the genuine Puella girls.
"Woohoo! Yeah!" Mimi hollered loudly. "Encore! This time all four of you!"
"They're pretty good," Keke nodded in approval.
Madoka beckoned Inori and Mana to join them on stage.
"Wanna give them an encore?" Madoka asked her two pink-haired friends.
"Sure," Inori accepted.
"Let's give them a show, guys!" Mana declared, kicking up a mike in her hand.
Homura smiled and faced the audience. "Let's give them something to remember us by."
(End theme)
xxxxx
Digital World/Azulongmon's Realm/July 15, 2011/9:30 AM
(Cue Digimon Adventure tri. OST - Butterfly ~Tabidachi~)
The day of departure finally arrived.
Tai & Agumon, Karin Osaka, Dimitri & Faith, Kensuke, and Athena & PinkPatamon convened at the sanctuary. Matt & Gabumon and Keke arrived shortly after Tai's group.
X arrived to meet with them.
"You guys came much earlier than we arranged, but I'm not complaining," X said. "I've pinpointed the exact dimension you'll be going to. So, Karin, you know what to do."
"Of course," Karin replied.
"Tai, Dimitri, Kensuke, I'd try keep your full Ascendant powers on a leash if you can. However, I get the feeling there will come situations where it will necessitate going all out," the masked watcher informed them.
"We'll do our best," Dimitri nodded.
"But, we can't make any promises if we decide to take the gloves off," stressed Kensuke.
Tai added, exuding a smile of confidence. "Especially if these anomalies you keep warning us about pick with a fight with us first."
"And we'll do our best to neutralize these malignant anomalies!" Karin openly vowed.
"You can do it!" Athena cheered them on. "Too bad I won't get to go."
"Oh sweetie," Karin walked over and hugged Athena. "Maybe on my next dimension trip, I promise. You've got Meryl to keep company."
"Yeah, I can visit Meryl."
"And you can hang around here with me," X said, patting Athena's shoulder.
"Athena, you be on your best behavior while we're gone," Dimitri addressed his future daughter.
"Will do, daddy!"
"Tai," Matt called out to his friendly rival's attention. "Keke and I have been given a separate dimension mission. Don't think I'm just going to sit back and let you have all the adventures to yourself."
"Sure, but you already convinced yourself to use this as a training regiment since you're bringing Keke along?"
"Not surprised you saw through my strategy. Yes, this mission doubles as a training escapade. X has honored my wishes."
"All we're waiting for is someone to dimension hop us over," Keke said.
"Oh, well I can do that. Just tell me where you guys need to go," Karin offered.
"Sis, good luck to you, father, and Gabumon. Also be careful and make sure father gets enough training in," Dimitri said, half embracing Keke.
"Same to you, bro." Keke then looked to X and blew a kiss to him.
In response, X slipped off the lower part of his mask and let that 'kiss' smack him right on the lips.
Wasting no time, Karin took out her Sedna Henshin Stick and used it to open a dimensional portal. Tai's group entered first. Then, Matt's small group jumped through the portal. X, Athena, and PinkPatamon waved them off goodbye.
(End theme)
"Good luck, my friends," X muttered before looking down at Athena.
"What now?" Wondered Athena, holding PinkPatamon in her arm. "I hope I'll go on a mission, too."
"You'll get your chance, Athena. In the meantime..." X took his mask off and article of clothing off. He, now unmasked as Max Kamiya, jumped out to reveal his training gear. "Would you like to show me your skills? Maybe just maybe I can teach you some techniques?"
"Oh, sure! I'd love that!" Athena's eyes lit up with excitement. "But, um... are you able to teach me to become an Ascendant? Like you, my dad, uncle Tai, and grandpa Matt?"
Max blinked thrice and gawked. "Wait, you still can't turn Ascendant?"
"No, I try my hardest and nothing happens. Daddy trained me hard, but even he has trouble."
"I know Dimitri's done his best, but maybe it's you that's holding back?"
Athena gasped. "Me holding back?"
"Athena, you came to the right instructor that can help bring out your latent potential. However, I leave it up to you. We don't have to do this if you don't want to."
The child mulled over Max's offer for arduous training. PinkPatamon looked up to her partner and waited.
"What are you going to do, Athena?" PinkPatamon asked her.
Athena has wanted to be strong like her parents and fellow Ascendant peers. For the longest time, she hasn't been able to delve into her Ascendant energy reserves. Being a quarter Ascendant at least has diluted that possible potential. Or, it's as Max already alluded: Athena's lack of becoming a full-on Ascendant is not due to genetics, but withholding her own potential purposefully for an inherent reason.
"Max, ok I'd like to give it a try," Athena said with a determined look.
"Then, let's take a few steps at a time, little one."
xxxxx
Digiverse/Southern Digital Quadrant/Spaceship
A military spaceship, one with the emblem of the Buriza Empire, coasted through the outer rims of the Southern Digital Quadrant in search of recruits. Following the fall of their emperor, the Buriza Empire fell into shambles and anarchy spread through the rankings.
However, one loyal subordinate exercised his authority and rose to the ranks as the Buriza Force's interim leader.
Sitting in a hover chair, a short blue alien with a koala-like nose, garbed in a green-and-black armor with a red cape named Sorbetmon scanned space while his grunts worked around the clock doing repairs in the ship.
"Sir, that collision with those meteors did some damage to the ship!" A grunt shouted frantically while putting out a fire.
"Idiots! This area better be clear of fire on the double!" Loudly barked Shisamimon.
Tagomamon, a tall grayish humanoid alien Digimon garbed in green, black, and red battle armor, extinguished some flames. He scanned the extinguished fires through his visor-like scouter. "There, the fire's been cleared here."
Leaning back on his seat, Sorbetmon groaned. "Cripes, this isn't what I hoped to bargain with. The once mighty empire's fallen apart. Morale's at an all-time low. If only... if only you hadn't vanished without a trace, Lord Burizalor. If only there was a way we could find you... or if you truly met a horrible end, we'd find means to revive you..."
Just like that, Sorbetmon's prayers were answered in the form of a violet portal that opened up inside the command station. Two individuals emerged from the portal.
(Cue Dragon Ball Super OST – Inescapable Fear)
Sorbetmon and the other Buriza Force members were taken aback by two humans, one of which carried with him a device used to open dimension portals.
One of them looked like Ken Ichijouji's old brother, Sam. Wearing a maniacal look on his face, he has wild dark blue hair and garbed in full bodied black armor. He was the one carrying the strange device.
The other was young man with blonde hair and battle armor. He looked less maniacal than his partner, but beneath the exterior he possessed a mind equally as wicked.
The one with the dimension portal device spoke up, addressing the aliens. "Good day to my fellow scumbags! I am the Digital Warlord and right here with me is..."
"Cyrus Fujita," the other one introduced himself.
"Who are you?!" Shisamimon, a big red bull-horned behemoth wearing a small armor chest piece, growled at the two newcomers. "How did you get in here?"
The Warlord scoffed at the red-skinned, bull-horned behemoth. "Watch who you're addressing, you big halfwit."
"Wait, Cyrus Fujita?" Sorbetmon meticulously eyed the aforementioned human. "But, aren't you...? Our files claim you've..."
"Died? Oh, I was, but fortunately unforeseen circumstances granted me a second chance at life," Cyrus confirmed his revival. "But, Sorbetmon, I take it? Me and my friend here wish to help alleviate the empire's current troubles."
"How would you like it if we revived your boss?" The Warlord offered, deviously smiling.
Tagomamon queried them with doubt. "And may I ask how will you do that?"
"Yes, I'm curious myself," Sorbetmon muttered, scratching his jaw.
"Rest your doubts, my friends. We have found means to revive Lord Burizalor," Cyrus proclaimed.
(End theme)
xxxxx
?-?
Watching the events unfold behind a wall of visuals is a yet to be seen malevolent entity. He shifted his view to one screen. It showed the DF-616 Digidestined meeting YYGDM heroes and the Lost Kingdoms crew. He intently observed Tai & Agumon, X/Max, Takato & Guilmon, Takuya, Masaru & Agumon, Taiki & Shoutmon, Madoka, Shu, Karin, and Kensuke.
"I see they're already taking note of my machinations."
The entity realized the powers that be were onto his anomalies' activities. But, he didn't seem to mind. He was a solitary entity with no ties to organizations such as Paradais. He counted on getting the attention of the same heroes that defeated numerous villains of their respective universe. For the DF-616 Digidestined, they've bested the likes of Devimon, Etemon, Myotismon, the Dark Masters, Daimaomon, the Digital Invaders, the Nightmare Special Squad, Burizalor, Datamon & his Artificials, Virus, Paradixalmon, GalacticNova X, GranDracmon, DarkMagimon, and Teen-Reaper.
"Go ahead and send your heroes to repair the worlds I'm manipulating. It makes no difference," the mysterious entity muttered darkly, and with a malignant smile. "I've got all the time I need to emerge. You can't stop the wheels in motion."
xxxxx
Next chapter: The Aligned Triad
xxxxx
A/N: Just like previous chapter, I've excised YYGDM-01 and other dimension scenes to keep focus on the DF-616 universe. So, I'm pretty much 'Kaifying' parts of Cross Generations.
And by Ford1114's request, I've removed his self-insert character from this story so his presence doesn't hinder the story I want to tell with Ascendancy. Likewise, other YYGDM OCs (such as Ford's girlfriend, Jessica), especially the ones who have no relations with the DFK cast, will be removed.
On the guest cast additions: the Lost Kingdoms crew move in as new residents of dimension DF-616. For the most part, it's the Guilty Crown cast that moved in. Madoka, Homura, and Kyubey may not necessarily live in DF-616 in the long run. They'll have roles that require them to leave DF-616 for other universes (also considering this Madoka is linked to her true goddess self and Homura is duty bound to keep tabs on space-time intrusions).
On the subject of Homura's name. This version of her has been adopted by Shu's stepmother, Haruka, and given the Ouma surname. She has become Shu's adoptive sister, which stays exclusive to Guilty Crown: The Lost Kingdom. So, after this chapter, she'll be mostly called by Homura Ouma.
Many teams will take on multiple dimension missions. But, to save myself time and energy, I will not do and show every mission. And any missions I show will be DFK characters with or w/o guest characters from YYGDM-01, XLR-8, and GCLK-1113 dimensions.
Finally, the (not so) mysterious figure in the last scene should be obvious if you've been up to date with Cross Generations. Yes, he'll appear in Ascendancy once this fic reaches past the Black Rebellion arc.
Next time, Tai and his squad meet a group of robots in disguise. Yes, it's first dimension mission that adapts Cross Generations' third chapter. I'll also include a few bonus cameos of the other Digiteams exploring other dimensions, too, to enhance the experience.
Until then, send a review and see you next time!