A/N: Hey, if you've made it this far, congrats this story's going into a moderate stretch of new content.
Ftr, I've altered the original title 'Training Days' to 'Passing Days'.
For starters, this will be a interlude chapter consisting of some events simultaneously taking place: Kari's training, Tai settling down after facing a Ki dilemma, and Zamasmon gradual descent.
With that, let this chapter begin.
xxxxx
Odaiba District/Local Market/10:30 AM
(Cue Dragon Ball Super OST - Under the Blue Sky)
After finishing his very early morning shift, Tai walked out carrying bags of groceries. He met with Agumon, who waited for him.
"Need a hand, Tai?" Agumon offered to carry a bag.
"Thanks, buddy," he handed him a bag while carrying two on his shoulders. "Are we ready to go home?"
"Yeah!"
As Tai and Agumon relocated somewhere away from crowds, they floated up and flew for home. On their way, they flew halfway through Odaiba and closed in on their apartment.
"Hopefully Dorothy's home so she can help make stew for me!"
Tai chuckled. "She makes some killer beef stew…" Suddenly, he noticed he and Agumon descended lower from their usual flight. "Huh, is it just me or are we flying lower?"
"Y'know now that you mention it… and I kinda feel weird. Like my body's feel heavy."
"Same here, buddy… whoa!" Tai yelled out as he suddenly fell out of his flight and dropped several hundred feet toward the ground.
"Tai!" Agumon yelled out as he, too, fell with his partner.
"Agumon! Hang on!" Tai quickly stopped and managed to fly up to catch Agumon. Somehow he regained his flight ability and descended carrying Agumon. He landed them within Odaiba Park. "You ok, buddy?"
"Thanks for the save, Tai."
Putting his bags down, Tai checked over himself. "What the hell was that all about? Hey, Agumon, are you feeling your Ki acting kinda weird?"
"Yep like I suddenly can't even control it."
"Same here," Tai pondered. "I think Max might need to examine us."
"Good idea."
"Only thing is today I'm supposed to meet with Sora. We're supposed to look at wedding dresses and do window shopping with her. I've promised her I'd help give her my opinions on some dresses."
"Well, we weren't planning to do any training today anyway, Tai. It shouldn't take long for Max to examine us."
"Yeah, sorry. I have a lot on my mind… after that tournament, then came me proposing to Sora and thinking about our future, especially if we conceive Max into this world." Tai scanned his body. "Could it be my body telling me to settle down?"
(End theme)
xxxxx
Digimon Fusion Ascendancy
Chapter XXXVII: Passing Days
xxxxx
Other World/X & Simm's Planet
Later on, Tai and Agumon dropped in on Max, who had been meditating with BW. They asked for a quick examination that Max generously accepted. Max sat them both down and scanned them both with his hands.
"Well, Max? What do you think?" Agumon asked him, anxiously waiting for an answer.
"Still checking," Max replied. "By the way, Tai, congrats on popping the question. Can't wait for the wedding."
"Wedding? What's that? Something you eat?"
Max blinked in befuddlement. "Um… what? I'm not following? You asked just Sora to marry you, Tai. How could you not even know…?"
The Bearer of Courage sardonically replied. "Max, I'm just dicking with ya. I know what marriage is. Geez, even I know that much."
Max sighed. "Damn I walked right into that one."
"Sorry, I just needed some humor to decompress myself over this. Can you blame me? I'm nervous."
"I understand. Don't worry I got you two figured out," Max stated, turning Tai and Agumon around. "All right, remember the Fury Blitz training you guys did with me way back when?"
Nodding, Tai answered. "Yeah like it were yesterday."
"You recall if you use it it'd take a toll on your body?"
"Yeah, part of the reason why we've actively avoided using it for a long time. Besides, since we've achieved Ascendant power, we had little need for Fury Blitz. Ascendant forms don't take a toll on our bodies anywhere near as bad as Fury Blitz does."
Agumon nodded. "But this last one we did, it was an all-or-nothing move!"
"We had to figure out a way to beat Hit's Time Skip. And this is was solution to that problem."
Max nodded. "He was a pretty broken opponent to overcome. I totally get why you felt you needed to dig up that technique. But, back to my point. You combined Fury Blitz with your Super Blue form. I can tell you that was a recipe for disaster. It might've gained you an edge over Hit, but you felt your body contort. Notice how you fell in pain? Sora and the others were rightfully worried."
"Yeah, and I'm sorry for scaring y'all like that."
"Well, I've diagnosed you two. You have a case of DOED?"
"Huh? Say what?" Tai and Agumon were both dumbfounded.
"Delayed Onset Energy Disorder," Max answered plainly. "It's when you lose the ability to control your energies. According to what I know, it can take effect a few days after in an excessive or unusual way."
"Yeah, combining Super Blue and Fury Blitz was something new we pulled off," Tai said, looking at Agumon for a second.
"Think of like a strained muscle. You two will have to go easy for a while your body repairs itself. You two will be fine, but you're lucky. The Fury Blitz is dangerous for anyone. For a guy on your level Tai, it's downright crazy."
"How long is a while?" Tai queried with concern. "LIke a day?"
"Hard to tell."
"You can be straight with me, Max. And I need to know just in case Grand Zenomnimon decides to hold that tournament. It could be any day now."
(Cue Dragon Ball Super OST - Compromise)
"True, but I think it's too soon to be concerned about that. Besides, this is a great opportunity to rest so you and Agumon don't tear your bodies apart. The Fury Blitz was your only gamble. That fight with Hit when you were predicting his moves, you weren't just guessing. You were forcing your way into the future for an advantage, weren't you?"
"Yeah, so?"
"You were pushing yourself to the limits of what a mortal can do. If you keep doing this to yourself, the constraints of your mind, body, and soul will unravel. And then you won't be able to fight anymore. Do you really want that for you and Agumon? I sure as heck don't. Sora wouldn't want that either. She needs you to train her to help her properly master her Ascendant power."
Tai sighed. "Right, I get that."
"Do you? I'm telling you based on my experience. There have been periods where I suffered DOED. It took me a few weeks to recover and put active training on hold. You know what I did? Keke and I did other things that didn't involve training."
"But, what if I get soft and fall behind?"
"You won't get any stronger if you train hard while you're suffering DOED."
As this piece of reality hit him in the face, Tai looked dejected. Agumon tried his best to comfort his buddy.
"Look, Tai, if you won't accept your limits of rest, maybe hang it up and give up fighting altogether? Hey, don't you and Sora have some wedding shopping to do? I know she's looking for the best wedding dress you can afford her?"
"Whoa, I don't have that kind of money yet. We're just looking and our wedding is like months away."
Max chuckled. "Heheh, it is kinda funny watching you squirm, Tai."
"Oh, you dick. Why would you do that? You got in against me or what?"
"Not me, but Simms doesn't like when you wreck his place when you come here to train with me."
"Oh, hehehe, tell him we're sorry!" Tai said.
"Yeah, and that we'll clean up before we leave!" Agumon added.
"That's what you two always say yet you neglect to do so! Talk about irresponsible!" Simms exclaimed as he appeared in front of the trio. "And yes I've seen that pigside you call your apartment, Tai. If you're going to marry Sora, you're going to have to change those habits quickly and not rely on Dorothy to being your maid."
"But she's not my maid. She insists to do the house duties to let me and Agumon go train. She considers chores to be part of her training."
"Even so, you'll have to bear those responsibilities, too. What if Dorothy isn't around?"
"All right, I'll change my habits for Sora."
Max added. "Training is great and all, but you gotta remember your other responsibilities. And I definitely want to be born with a dad who'll be there for me for the first couple of years at least."
Tai smiled. "I won't let you down, Max, but um… what are the chances Sora and I don't have a son?"
Max chuckled. "Oh, believe me. 99.9 percent chances are you two will have a boy."
"Well, that's a relief. Not that I wouldn't want a girl, but I feel more comfortable knowing you'll be born as our son, Max."
Max patted Tai's shoulder. "Even if your energy does come back sooner, still use this time to relax some and spend time with Sora. Do that for me?"
Tai replied with a smile. "For you and Sora, I won't argue."
"Thanks, Tai."
"Well, guess this means I can kick back and eat some more!" Agumon said.
"Just don't gain any more pounds than your body can handle, buddy," Max said, patting Agumon's head. He muttered, looking over his shoulder. "I've already had to tell Gojiramon to cut back on those sweets he loves so much." He glanced over to his Kaijuu partner, Gojiramon, asleep.
"That's cause you spoil him," Tai snickered.
"Yeah, so what? He gives me the puppy dog eye treat-! Shut up I can't help it!" Max yelled out.
"Well, thanks for the assessment, Max," Tai stood up. "I've gotta get ready so I can meet with Sora."
"Sure, and Agumon you're more than welcome to chill here," Max said. "Gojiramon could use some company."
Agumon nodded. "Ok, but you sure you don't want me to come with, Tai?"
"I'll be ok with it being me and Sora. I'll back and pick you up later."
"Have fun with Sora," Max said.
"Thanks, I will."
(End theme)
xxxxx
Outside of Odaiba Elementary/3:05 PM
After finishing another day of assistant teacher work, Kari walked out and hopped on her bike. She waited as Gatomon jumped out of a tree and landed in the bike's makeshift basket provided for her.
"Today's the day, huh, Kari? You sure you want to go through with this?"
Kari nodded firmly. "Since my brother's gonna be occupied with Sora, this is perfect timing. Now I just gotta contact Kensuke." She said, taking out her cell phone.
"That won't be necessary, Ms. Kamiya." A calm voice chimed in behind her.
Alarmed by the presence behind her, Kari and Gatomon whirled around coming face to face with Slade Matrix.
"I need to ask you again. Are you certain you want to go through this ordeal? I ask because Kensuke needs to know. It's ok to back out now."
The Bearer of Light affirmed her decision. "I couldn't be more sure than ever before. I'm ready. Tell him to arrange the room."
Slade Matrix complied. "As you wish."
xxxxx
Holy Sanctuary/Digiverse 10
Meanwhile on Gowasmon's holy grounds, he and Zamasmon were under the shade of a luscious tree. They sat together viewing an orb that broadcasted the various sectors of their universe.
"What are we looking at, master?" Zamasmon inquired to the Supreme Guardian.
"Observing the mortal activities in our universe. Is there any world you'd like to see?"
"No, master," Zamasmon slightly frowned.
Gowasmon picked a planet out of random. "Let's check on the Planet Barbari." He showed his pupil a view of a heavily forested section on the planet. He zoomed in to show the planet's primary inhabitants: large burly orange-skinned dinosaur humanoids garbed in early caveman fur wear and almost all of them carrying large clubs.
"What are these?"
"They're the Barbarians of Planet Plant. They've evolved from simple Barbarimon ages ago. Their evolution into bipeds has been slow. They're still very primitive in their culture, but give them a 1000 digicycles and they'll begin to develop highly functional skills comparable to other highly advanced digitized races."
"They're still programmed to be simple-minded beasts? I don't see the point in waiting a few thousand digicyles to see if they've progressed."
"What did I say about patience, Zamasmon?"
He sighed in response. "Yes, master."
(Cue Dragon Ball Super OST - Zero Mortal Plan)
Suddenly, the deities watched a Barbari attack another following a dispute over food. The Barbari fought and tackled each other violently. Both started to club each other with fists.
"Hmm, this violence is quite troubling," Gowasmon stated.
"Wouldn't it be wise to deal with them now? Before they cause more problems?" Zamasmon narrowed his eyes over the violent scene.
"What do you mean deal with them?"
"I mean exterminate the entire race?"
"How can you say something so callous?! That's the role for a Destroyer not Higher Ones like us!"
"Then what do you propose? Do you have an alternative? Do you truly believe these savages will ever reach enlightenment?"
"We'll watch them for those 1000 of digicycles or so to see if they progress."
"What's even the point? They'll never become civilized."
"You never know."
Zamasmon nodded. "I do know. I've already seen enough examples from other worlds to know this as fact. There are no mysteries to the mortal soul."
Taking Zamasmon's concerns to heart, Gowasmon got up from his chair and walked by their table.
"Zamasmon, if you're still that concerned, then come with me."
With that, Gowasmon opened some the temple doors. Zamasmon followed him in. As they waltzed through the halls, they came upon a large pair of doors sealed by a scroll. Gowasmon pressed his hand on the scroll, which scanned the deity's fingerprints. The doors opened for Gowasmon.
"In here," Gowasmon invited Zamasumon in.
They entered together inside a spaceless white void. Gowasmon waved his hand in front of an empty space. A veil of red light materialized in front and formed into a wall of cabinets. Gowasmon opened one and pulled out a sealed box.
Zamasmon eyed the box. "Isn't this the box that holds those time rings you alluded to?"
"Indeed, Zamasmon. I'm glad you paid attention to my lessons. As the name suggests, these bands allow one to move beyond the constraints of time. Care for a demonstration?"
"Um, yes, master."
(End theme)
xxxxx
Odaiba Notama Apartments/Tai's Residence/Room #122/3:30 PM
"What?! You and Agumon can't train anymore for a while?" Sora asked worryingly, sitting down to listen to her boyfriend's talk with Max. She smiled genuinely. "Look at this as a break from active training, Tai. You have been doing it while."
"Yeah…"
"Don't forget you nearly scared me to death after you keeled over using that Fury Blitz move."
"Sorry, Sora."
Sora grabbed his hand. "I can wait for you to train me. And hey, guess what? I've gotten a hang of the flight technique! Doesn't that sound great?!"
"You're learning fast, Sora. Probably even faster than I did when I trained with Max."
"I have to thank you both for that. But, man the gravity on Max's planet takes a toll on you."
"Just don't go too crazy, Sora."
"I can say the same for you, stupid Tai," Sora lightly slugged him on the arm. "So, ready for some window shopping?"
"Let's do it."
xxxxx
Digital World/Azulongmon's Realm/Room of Time
"This way, you two," BanchoLeomon said, walking Kari and Gatomon toward the Room of Time doors.
Standing in front of the door was Kensuke Rainer, who was dropped off by Slade. Kensuke noted the fearless vibes he got from Kari and Gatomon.
"Thanks for coming, Ken," Kari said, carrying a bag of training equipment.
"I kinda wish we didn't have to do this. I mean, your brother doesn't even know about this. And I don't want to imagine what he'd do if he learned I put you through this dangerous training session."
"Forget him, Ken. At least you talked to Max about it. My brother can't know about this."
Kensuke sighed. "Does TK know?"
Kari nodded. "No, not even him."
"You're taking a huge risk, Kari."
"I'll be the judge of that."
Kensuke pushed the doors open. "All right, we both already have prior experience using this room before."
"I know the innings and outings, yes."
"Good to know. Let's get this over with," Kensuke said as he, Kari, and Gatomon walked into the room.
BanchoLeomon closed the doors behind them. Pikkan approached him.
"Are you ok with letting this go through?" Pikkan asked BanchoLeomon. "I mean, you did train Gatomon before and were Kari's protector."
"Yes, there's that part of that worries, but Kari's grown into a strong young woman. She at some points surpassed her brother in power. I believe she can possibly do so again."
PIkkan frowned. "Is this blind or genuine faith you have in her?"
BanchoLeomon nodded. "Maybe a bit of both. Whatever training Kensuke has in mind, it hopefully does wonders for Kari."
xxxxx
(Cue Chrono Trigger OST - Sealed Door (Orchestral Remix))
After a few warm ups, Kari and Gatomon met with Kensuke in the white space void.
"I ask for the final time, Kari and Gatomon. Are you ready for what you'll have to endure?"
"I'm not backing down, Ken. I'm ready to get this over with."
Kensuke nodded. "Well, do you remember when your brief interaction with Yusuke Urameshi?"
"Yeah. Of course, I do."
"Then, you probably didn't know he received a power from his master Genkai not from any conventional training."
"How did he get her power?"
"She simply gave it to him and he absorbed it into his body."
"And then what happened next?"
Kensuke kept to himself and pressed a hand to his chest. He concentrated hard and yanked what looked like an orb of white light out of his chest. He showed it in full display to Kari and Gatomon. Both were captivated by the condensed KI essence in his hands.
"Kari, did you see…?" Gatomon asked as Kari walked up and touched the Ki orb.
"You want me to put this in my body?" Kari asked, holding the Ki ball. "Is this going to help with my training?"
Kensuke nodded. "I'm giving you a warning. Once you take in this, your body will undergo the most excruciating pain you'll ever endure. You have a chance to reconsider and step back." He looked into Kari's eyes, who never looked more determined.
"So, no backing out of this?" He asked, awaiting the expected answer.
"Just let me take it," Kari said, slowly pressing the Ki orb into her chest. "Can it be any worse than the Mystic training…?"
Before she can absorb the Ki orb, Homeostasis telepathically intervened and warned Kari.
"I'd advise caution, Bearer of Light. The source of power Kensuke is giving you is from his own Ascendant God power. Your body hasn't adapted to containing that immense power yet."
I can't get any stronger like my brother if I don't go through with this.
"Then, at the least, allow me to empower you so your body can handle the punishment."
Taking a deep breath, Kari folded the Ki orb into her orb vanished inside Kari. There was momentary silence as Kari awaited for any side effects from the Ki absorption technique. Kari opened her eyes and checked her body.
"Is that all?" Kari wondered.
"Yeah, where's that excruciating pain you were hinting towards?" Gatomon asked Kensuke.
"Give it a minute," Kensuke said. "Keep in mind, that was only a quarter of my Ascendant God power. Giving more than that would be suicide. I just hope Homeostasis can help you endure this, Kari."
Suddenly, Kari saw her Crest of Light symbol profusely glowing a pink light on her chest. Then, she started to feel a wave of crushing pain weigh her down. That excruciating pain Kensuke described came and hit Kari fast. Kari was already on her knees screaming and gasping for air. Gatomon quickly rushed over to her partner's side.
"Careful, Gatomon! Her body's become sensitive from having all that power I've given her coursing through her body. If you disrupt the process, you'd only be hurting Kari."
"But…" Gatomon turned, watching as her partner writhe in agony. She could discern the horrible pain on Kari's face.
"If she's not not able to handle it, then I'll just take it back," Kensuke stated, sitting down and watching Kari rolling and gritting her teeth hard.
"Kari," Gatomon restrained herself from risking Kari's life.
Homeostasis' light enveloped Kari and helped strengthen her body from completing being torn apart from outside as well as the inside.
If you can manage to overcome this, Kari, I have no doubt you can build your own Ascendant God aura. He thought, painstakingly watching Kari. He, too, restrained from interrupting the process and endangering her life.
(End theme)
xxxxx
Odaiba Shopping District
Tai and Sora went about window shopping for wedding dresses and tuxedos. They also spent over half an hour browsing in a clothing store. During his boredom watching Sora picking out new clothes, something in the back of Tai's head clicked.
"Huh?" Tai blinked.
"Tai? What's wrong?" Sora asked, noticing his sudden distress.
"Nothing, just felt a little weird for a sec. So, what have you picked out?"
"This nice summer dress and this pair of pants. How come you haven't picked out anything for you?"
"I already said I'd let you shop for you first."
Sora nodded. "All right, whatever you say. Look, I know shopping isn't your thing, but remember what Max said. You need to take it easy."
"Yeah, I know…" Tai muttered. No, something else is bothering. And why did Kari's presence just up and vanished all of a sudden?
xxxxx
1000 Digicyles Digiverse 6's Future/Planet Barbari
(Cue Chrono Trigger OST - Zeal Palace (Orchestral Remix))
Far into Digiverse 10's future, Gowasmon and Zamasmon used a time ring to appear on Planet Barbari. They looked down and saw the same two Barbaris that fought on the viewing orb.
"Revolting," Zamasmon conveyed his disdain.
"I hope within a 1000 digicycles from now these peoples aren't deeply shackled to their primitive drives."
"So, that instrument allows the wearer to travel through time?"
"Yes, but there are distinct limitations. The rings take us to the future and always bring us back."
"What about going to the past?"
"That's not the purpose of the rings. Even if they could, such movement is strictly forbidden. Interacting with history is complex and fraught with danger. You recall those emerald-colored rings inside that box?"
"Yes, master."
"Each one was created by a significant change in history, which has produced a separate timeline. An alternate reality to be specific."
"What is an alternate reality?"
"It's possible to effect the flow of time in a way creates a parallel stream. Judging by those bands in that box, it has happened in recent years. For mercy's sake, what sort of fools would create such madness? The point is, the time ring can take us back to the time of these Barbari's future."
"Correct…"
"Or, perhaps I mean to say it can take me. As a precaution, the time rings can only transport those of a Supreme Guardian ranking and the correct Fuseha earring to do so. Apprentices like yourself don't qualify."
Zamasmon blinked. "Then I can't go with you?"
Gowasmon chuckled modestly. He removed his left earring. "You may borrow one of mine. I will temporarily promote you into Supreme Guardian."
Zamasmon bowed. "I'm humbled, master." He graciously took the earring.
"Just put it on your left ear. I take it you know why."
"If I put it on my right ear and you put yours on your left, we would merge?"
"Yes, the Fuseha earrings would combine us together into a more powerful Supreme Guardian. For us, it would be permanent. What do you think? Want to join with me forever?"
The apprentice shuddered lightly. "Um, no I'll pass. Another time perhaps?"
"Heheh, ok now touch the ring and say 1000. Then that'll let us travel ahead."
Nodding, Zamasmon clenched a fist and pressed it against Gowasmon's ring finger.
"1000!" Both yelled out together.
Suddenly, the deities noticed the winds blowing around them and the flow of time washing over the vicinity. A few seconds passed and the deities were transported another 1000 years into Planet Barbari's future.
They looked down and noticed man made caves and a giant campfire set. It was a Barbari community that hadn't existed before.
"Look, Zamasmon. I see homes and fire. They're starting to civilize," Gowasmon stated optimistically.
This moment of peace was swiftly ended when two Barbari bumped into each other. Expecting a civilized response, Gowasmon was taken aback when the beast men clubbed each other.
As Gowasmon grunted in dismay, Zamasmon conveyed a scornful and judgmental demeanor over the Barbaris' actions.
This just proves mortals can't evolve into civilized beings.
(End theme)
xxxxx
Digital World/Azulongmon's Realm/Room of Time
Two days have passed inside the Room of Time.
Kari's blood curdling screams echoed across the endless time and space room. Kensuke and Gatomon watched as Kari writhed and punched the ground. Some blood squirted out of cuts on her body.
"KARI!" Gatomon screamed.
"This has gone too far. I have to take it back!" Kensuke exclaimed as he approached Kari and prepared to rip the god Ki orb out of her body. As he reached for her, Kari grabbed his hand. He noticed Homeostasis' aura washed over the Bearer of Light.
With eyes glowing with white light, the Homeostasis-possessed Kari beckoned Kensuke away.
"Kari is the one who agreed to this ordeal. She has adamantly refused to back out. She asks that no one. Not you. Not Gatomon. Not Taichi intervene. She will endure this, Bearer of Unity."
Before he could retort, Kensuke watched Kari rolling away and clutching her body.
"Oh, Kari…" Gatomon teared up for her partner.
"Kari really wants this badly," Kensuke muttered, acknowledging Kari's perseverance. "You're really Tai's sister." He sat down watching Kari's Ki orb absorption training process.
xxxxx
1000 Digicyles Digiverse 6's Future/Planet Barbari
(Cue Chrono Trigger OST - Lavos' Theme (Orchestral Remix))
Back on Planet Barbari's future world, the deities witnessed two Barbari rival camps declaring war over territory. As expected, and living up to their barbaric reputations, the warring Barbari tribes clubbed and attacked violently with bloody results.
"Look at them. They take anything by savage force. Their so-called society is based on nothing else. They possess neither justice or order," Zamasmon commented. "They were gifted with life and brains capable of wisdom. Yet, they waste it completely. Should we not take their gifts away?"
"Zamas…" Before Gowasmon can finish, a Barbari sneaked up on them raising its club.
Zamasmon swiftly caught the Barbari's club with graceful ease. He fired a weak beam that knocked the barbarian into a rock face. The Barbari fell off the rock face with its face drenched in its blood. The savage stared Zamasmon head-on and charged. Zamasmon readily forged an energy blade into his right hand, which Gowasmon noticed.
"Zamasmon!"
The Barbari rushed Zamasmon with an intent to kill.
"Don't do it…!"
Blocking out his master's plea, Zamasmon intently focused on bringing justice on the savage that dared to threaten him and Gowasmon. He quickly brought down his hand and sent an energy blade through bisected the Barbari. The Barbari remains fell apart leaving a bloody heap.
(End theme)
Gowasmon watched this in utter horror. Zamasmon stood quietly and in his own world.
"What have you done? How could you?! Zamasmon!"
Gowasmon grabbed Zamasmon's shoulder and shook him hard. Zamasmon turned around with eyes still glazed over. Zamasmon quickly came back to reality and put on his calm exterior once again, which greatly disturbed Gowasmon.
"That's far enough. We're leaving now, Zamasmon."
xxxxx
Holy Sanctuary/Digiverse 10
After a disastrous journey, the deities returned to the present.
"Give me the earring now," Gowasmon demanded as the apprentice handed him back the Fuseha. His face conveyed a look that Zamasmon didn't want to see: a look of disappointment. "Tell me. Why did you take his life?"
Zamasmon gave no response.
"We could've easily returned without temporal interference. For all we know, that individual could've had an impact on the future of the Barbari. He could've been a warrior who saw the light and led his people to true reformation. And you may have costed them that."
Zamasmon growled being accused of delivering his 'divine justice'.
"Just for that, we won't be using the time rings anymore until you've truly cleansed your mind and body of negative emotions. If you are to become my successor, you must be patient and consider actions that don't revolve around violence. Is that clear?"
"Ye…"
"Hmm?"
"Yes, Master Gowasmon," Zamasmon bowed. "I'm truly sorry for my reprehensible action that may have cost a civilization's future."
"I accept your humble apology. Now please make some tea so we can talk."
"As you wish, master."
xxxxx
Digital World/Azulongmon's Realm/Room of Time
Another day has passed and Kari was still laying her body covered in cuts. While her body didn't feel like it wanted to explode, she was still feeling worse for wear. She raised her head and weakly groaned. Her blurry field of vision made out Gatomon pouring some water on her face. Kari's mouth lapped up some of the water.
"Gatomon…"
"I couldn't let you go without anything to drink, Kari."
"Thanks…"
"Can you move?"
"Not even a little…" Kari tried sitting up but to no avail. "It's no use."
"I wouldn't rush it, Kari. Your body needs time to heal itself," Kensuke said. "But, we don't have to wait much longer." He said, taking out a Digi-Vitamin. "This'll do."
"You're the best…" Kari said.
"I asked him to bring one of those back from the other side," Gatomon stated.
"I'll give a whole one," Kensuke offered as he knelt down to feed Kari one.
(Cue Yu Yu Hakusho OST - Struggle of Sadness)
Just then, a veil of white light erupted from Kari, knocking both Kensuke and Gatomon back. Kensuke and Gatomon watched Kari floating into the air and shrouded in a white light.
"I won't permit you to feed Kari one of those. Her training has yet to complete with me!" Homeostasis yelled out from Kari.
"What's she talking about?!" Kensuke wondered aloud.
"She has to be referring to the mental image training! It's what me and Kari went through during the Mystic training!"
"How astute of you to remember, Gatomon. Yes, Kari's undergoing mental training under my care. She must complete it without delay."
"But what about the divine Ki I gave her?!"
"It's still coursing through Kari's body. You needn't worry her body is becoming compatible with the Ascendant God power you gave her, Kensuke Rainer. She's getting ready to complete the final phases of her training."
Kensuke and Gatomon both averted their eyes as the white light covering Kari gleamed brighter than before. They noted the lifeless expression on Kari's face change. Her blank eyes regained life.
"Kari! Don't take it all in too fast!" Gatomon called out to her.
"You're harming Kari if you hasten the process!" Kensuke yelled toward Homeostasis. "Her body will break down!"
"Then she probably doesn't deserve the power you've given her…"
Just then, Homeostasis sensed Kari's will overtake hers. Kari grabbed her own chest and clenched her teeth.
"Stop it… I'M TAKING THIS POWER AND I WON'T LET THIS BODY GET DESTROYED!" Kari screamed, forcefully overtaking Homeostasis and taking in the instilled Ascendant God energy into her.
"KARI! DON'T…!" Gatomon pleaded to her.
A wave of white light shot out of Kari and spread over the endless room. Gatomon was thrown back by her partner's own power. Kensuke caught Gatomon. They watched Kari covered in a white aura. She landed panting and grasping her chest. As Kensuke approached her, Kari beckoned him away.
(End theme)
"It's ok… I...I think I did it…" Kari muttered, sensing her own power had greatly been augmented.
"Kari, did you do what I think you did?" Kensuke asked.
"Yeah, I fully merged Homeostasis and the Ascendant God energy you gave me," Kari said, extending a hand to Gatomon. "Want to see how it feels, Gatomon?"
Gatomon hopped out of Kensuke's hands and touched Kari's hand. A white light quickly enveloped them both, merging them together into Celesta X. Kensuke witnessed them become a new Celesta X. One he hadn't seen before.
Kensuke queried in awe. "So, what do you call yourself in this form?"
Celesta X thought his over and considered. "How about Holy Mode?"
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Odaiba Shopping District
"Kari!" Tai shouted right in the middle of his shopping with Sora.
"Tai?" Sora blinked, taken aback by his outburst.
"I can sense her again!" Tai grabbed Sora as he used Instant Movement to get to Azulongmon's realm.
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Digital World/Azulongmon's Realm
Tai and Sora instantly arrived in the sacred sanctuary. However, Tai crash landed on the ground. Sora helped him up.
"Tai, what did Max tell you? You can't control your energy well now and to let it rest...!" Sora barked.
"Nevermind that! Kari! Hey, you two! Where's Kari?! I felt her energy just now!" The Bearer of Courage picked himself up and ran toward them.
Tai and Sora watched BanchoLeomon and Pikkan open the Room of Time doors.
(Cue Yu Yu Hakusho OST - Yusuke's Theme)
"Kari!" Tai shouted as he raced over to see Kari walking out carrying Gatomon. She leaned on Kensuke on their way out of the room. "Ken, you were with her?" His brotherly instinct kicked in high gear as he confronted Kensuke. "What's going on here?! Why did you take Kari in the Room of Time?"
"Tai!" Sora tried to calm him.
"Answer me!" Tai demanded.
"This was her decision. No one encouraged or coerced her into this," interjected Slade, who appeared from a corner.
"What? Kari, is this true?" Tai asked Kari, who opened her eyes and nodded.
"Yeah… this was all planned since the tournament," she revealed.
"Since the tournament?" The Bearer of Courage then quickly realized. "Then, that what you were discussing about."
"That's right. And Kari asked us not to tell any of you until she was ready," Max spoke out as he took Kari and Gatomon from Kensuke.
"And you used the Room of Time?" Tai asked Kari.
"Listen, Tai. We didn't contact you because your sister demanded it so," BanchoLeomon informed him. "If she hadn't known any of this, I'd have stopped her."
"Tai, I was training with Kensuke in there and you know what happened?" Kari then explained what occurred inside the Room of Time. She even entailed him about her managing to merge Homeostasis' light with Kensuke's Ascendant God power.
Tai and Sora were baffled to hear this. Tai approached Kari and hugged her.
"That's great, but don't ever scare me like that again, Kari."
"Tai, I know you're always out to protect me, but I'm already grown and can fend for myself. Look, I'm still here and just survived the most dangerous training."
"That had to be painful," Sora said. "Tai, tell me I won't have to go through with that?"
"No way. And besides that was Kari's unique training and she's inherited a portion of Ascendant God power. Kari, I hope you know what you're doing. If you need someone to teach ya to utilize an Ascendant God's power…"
"Thanks, Tai," Kari smiled. She then faced Kensuke. "And thanks, Ken. I couldn't have done this without you."
Kensuke nodded. "My pleasure, but I suggest taking it easy before you train again."
"Right!" Kari replied.
"Guess our work here is done. Ken, let's head back," Slade called him. He forged a dimensional portal for their departure.
"See y'all until next time," Kensuke waved them off as he and Slade entered the portal.
"Ready to go home, Kari?" Gatomon asked.
"Yeah…" Kari said, gazing down at her hands. She noticed a faint white glow resonating with her hands. I can hardly believe it. I have Ascendant God power now. Ok, maybe I don't have the full power, but with me in control of Homeostasis, the possibilities are endless for me now!
(End theme)
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Holy Sanctuary/Digiverse 10
Coming back with a fresh tea, Zamasmon poured a cup of hot herbal tea and placed it for Gowasmon.
Being ever observant, Gowasmon eyed the tea and his apprentice. "This tea is a mirror pointed inward. If the soul of its maker is clouded, the tea will be as well. Is it fear that clouds this cup? Or bewilderment? Do speak."
"Master Gowasmon, you've said this before and it still lingers in my head. To make mistakes and learn from them allows us to forge a better world. That's the essence of a mortal spirit?"
"Yes, correct."
"However as far as I see it, mortals don't learn this way at all. Planet Barbari is surely no outlier, master. Before I become your apprentice, you've seen this countless times before."
"Patience, Zamasmon. Every seed needs its time to grow."
"Gardens are tended not just watched. Should a gardener not pluck out the unnecessary weeds? When you took me in, I thought you'd teach me divine justice. But all you and the Sovereigns seem to do is watch and let these monsters stain existence with each other's blood!"
Suddenly, Gowasmon noticed his tea darken to resemble black tea. He noted this as his apprentice being tainted by corrupted darkness.
"Do you ever ponder the relationship between good, evil, and justice, Zamasmon?"
"All the time, master. Evil is the great obstacle to good. Justice is the sword that good uses to overcome this great obstacle an flourish."
"That's one perspective to consider. However, I come to view an alternative. Justice isn't just a sword to eradicate evil, but a scale keeping good and evil in balance."
"Balance?"
"One can succumb to evil, but reject that darkness and rediscover the light with better understanding does make that journey possible. Evil informs good and that is why we give the mortals their mind."
(Cue Dragon Ball Super OST - Solving the Mysterious Puzzle)
Zamasmon sighed. "You give corruption far too much credit. Evil does not inform good. It sullies. Like the Barbari tainted their world with violence and that arrogant Taichi tainted this sacred realm by swinging his fists at a god. Mortals, digital and biological, receive the divine gift of intellect. They're given the potential for wisdom, but they waste and misuse it to destroy the beauty of creation. Mortals don't become tainted with evil. They are the evil. They create and spread it with minds they shouldn't possess." He turned around watching rose petals falling from a tree. "How can we call ourselves gods and watch this plight with nothing to stop it?"
Gowasmon witnessed his tea turn clear as water. "You have a strong obsession for justice, Zamasmon. That can be a beautiful thing, but we should place temperance with righteousness. We must guide the children toward a good but slow path. Never forget your combat training should be used to enhance your mind toward enlightenment. Us being gods doesn't make us perfect. We must learn and mature over time."
Zamasmon bowed and pushed the tea cart away.
"Reflect on this as you go make more tea."
As Zamasmon reentered the temple, he paused to watch more rose petals fall from another tree.
"Merely waiting and watching? That's a sin, too," mumbled Zamasmon as he started back into the temple.
Unbeknownst to the apprentice, R. Homura uncloaked herself from a hidden location and had eavesdropped on the deities. Her devil aura allowed her to go undetected by their divine senses.
Yes, he's the perfect recruit for our cause. He'll be the one to vehicle the BAT units. R. Homura telepathically communicated with the anomalous being. I'll stay a little longer and wait until you come. Hopefully it won't be much longer.
(End theme)
xxxxx
Planet LV/Digiverse 7
Somewhere far off in the Western Digital Realm, a civilization had recently been met with an unwanted guest. On his way into the real world, the parasitic invader, Bebimon, left a few surprises that devastated Planet LV.
Only a few managed to escape Bebimon's spawn.
A tanuki Digimon hid behind debris. He looked completely scared witless.
"Looks like I lost it," the innocent creature sighed deeply. Then, he paused as drips of clear ooze fell on his head. He squicked as slime spilled on his face. "Ugh, what's…?" He looked up as purple slime fell on top of him.
The raccoon's field of vision immediately blacked out soon after.
xxxxx
Next chapter: Invasion of the Digibody Snatchers
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A/N: Kari has gotten her training out of the way and thanks to Kensuke has gotten a quarter of Ascendant God power. Moreover, she's gotten full control over Homeostasis' light. As a result, she's unlocked her Holy Mode, which will be utilized when the Black Rebellion arc kicks off into high gear.
The training is based off the Genkai Spirit Orb training. Though unlike Genkai, Kensuke didn't fully give away his Ascendant God power. Moreover, just a quarter is enough for Kari or her body probably wouldn't have been able to handle it. Thanks to Chaosblazer for this suggestion for Kari's training.
Zamasmon's descent into madness continues as he and Gowasmon go back in time. This firmly sets up his drift from Gowasmon and joining the anomalous being's organization. The Time Ring is introduced, but won't really be a plot device since Zamasmon won't be needing. He'll be provided other resources thanks to R. Homura and the anomalous boss.
Last scene sets up the mini-arc I've alluded to: the adaptation of that Potaufeu arc. The one with that Copy Vegeta thing. Yep, I'm doing that. Why? To entertain the idea of Metalla X facing a Copy version of himself. Poor Yamakins never gets it easy. This one will be about two chapters long and that's about it.
Anyway, until the next update, send a review and see you soon!