A/N: Last time, parasitic slime has taken over and created evil clones of our heroes. Now it's extermination time.

How does Omega X vs Copy-Metalla X and Copy Max sound?

Enjoy!

xxxxx

Digimon Fusion Ascendancy
Mini-arc: The Copy Infestation

xxxxx

Digital World/File Island

(Cue Predator OST - The Chopper (0:00-0:55))

"Max!" Tai called out to the D3, whose mental link was momentarily cut off. "Oh crap!" He tried reestablishing a mental link with Max.

"Tai, please tell em he's ok wherever he is!" Sora pleaded

Come in, Max! Can you hear me?! Tai telepathically tried reaching him again.

...sorry, Tai! I'm still here! Listen, we've got an urgent situation on our hands here! Matt and I not only had our bodies copied by some creatures, but they sapped all our energy! We need a hand!

Where are y'all?! Is everyone else ok?!

They are for now, but I don't know how long… the others can't fight clones of me and Matt with all our established powers! And our location is Planet LV.

"Planet LV?" Tai blinked in confusion.

"What's this Planet LV? I've never heard of it, Tai," Agumon butted in.

"Welcome to the club, buddy," Tai replied, putting his fingers to his forehead. Ok, I've got a lock on y'alls energies. You're right. Yours and Matt's Kis feel differently than I'm used to.

You're sensing the parasitic life forms who've taken our powers and gained our appearances. Come quick!

"Sora, Biyomon! Grab onto us!" Tai called out to the aforementioned duo.

"Just put your hands on us," Agumon instructed.

"Right," Sora nodded as she and Biyomon put their hands on Tai and Agumon's backs.

"Here we go!" Tai declared as he and Agumon used Instant Movement to teleport them off File Island and to their next destination.

(End theme)

xxxxx

Planet LV

Shoom.

The four left as soon as they arrived on Planet LV. They sighted Max, Metalla X, and the others amassed in one location. They noticed the ravaged area where the fighting spread and spilled out.

"Tai! Over here!" Keke called out as she and Mosuramon flew over to meet with Tai, Agumon, Sora, and Biyomon. "Oh, Sora, you came?"

"I was training with Tai and then Max called," Sora replied. "Tell us, is Max ok?"

Keke nodded. "For now, but if we don't beat these creatures then both Max and my dad will both cease."

"What?! They'll vanish?!" Tai and Sora shouted in unison.

(Cue Predator OST - The Chase)

"So far, I've been able to briefly stop them," Keke said. "I think it's because when these things steal people's forms and powers, they gain their inherent personality traits. So, they haven't attempted to attack me. Can't say the same for the others."

"Heads up!" Tai called out as he grabbed Sora and Keke.

Agumon grabbed Biyomon and Mosuramon.

Sam and Decade X were both sent flying toward their way. Tai and Agumon teleported their friends out of harm's way.

"That was Sam, Jacomon, and Ryo!" Keke cried out as Tai set them down.

"Hey, over there!" Sora pointed toward Copy Metalla X beating down Tike and David.

"Tike, David!" Tai called out as he and Agumon flew over to save them.

As Copy Metalla X went for a punch, Tai quickly snatched his hand and stopped him from attacking the boys.

"Just in time! Thanks, Tai!" David cried out in relief.

"Yeah, thanks," Tike said.

"Nice for you to join us, Tai," Gai acknowledged the Ascendant's timely arrival. He quickly turned over as Copy Max fought off Shu and Ayase. "Hold on, guys!"

Eyeing both Copies, Tai frowned and grabbed Agumon's hand. As the Crest of Courage symbol flared on his chest, Tai and Agumon merged to become Omega X again.

"Looks like you're back at top form, Tai," Max smiled, getting up to help Shu and the others deal with Copy Max.

"Max!" Gojiramon called out, pulling his partner down. "You ain't got the strength to fight! How about I tag in? Let me fight!"

"Ok, buddy! Show 'em what you've got!" Max declared, taking out his Digivice.

As Max's Digivice lit up, Gojiramon evolved into Godzillamon. Godzillamon charged at Copy Max and swung his massive tail at him. Copy Max avoided the Kaijuu's tail swipe and fired Ki blasts. Godzillamon doubled his body like a barrier, taking Copy Max's destructive blasts.

Godzillamon roared and fired his Atomic Inferno. The green fiery blast spiraled toward Copy Max, who jumped up and fired multiple Ki blasts at Godzillamon.

"Godzillamon!" Max yelled out as he tried getting up only to fall and buckle under. "Ugh, crap." He noticed his hands starting to fade. "Damn, this isn't good."

"Max, if your friends don't defeat your Copy, then you'll cease to exist. We've got to get you your energy and powers back!" Tanukimon said, grabbing Max's hand.

"Max! Let us handle him!" Keke called out as she and Mosuramon flew over to help Godzillamon against Copy Max.

Copy Max turned around as Keke flew at him. Keke moved away, allowing Mosuramon to shoot silk from her mandibles. The silk surrounded and formed a thick casing that sealed him. Copy Max quickly powered up into Super Ascendant Blue. The Copy's blue aura shredded through the silk casing and dissolved it.

"Hey!" Keke beckoned Copy Max's attention from Mosuramon. As he turned to face her, Keke powered up to Ascendant level 2. "Tai, can I leave my dad's copycat with you? I'll handle Max's."

Omega X nodded. "Sounds good. Trust me, I'll have Matt back to normal." He briefly looked over toward Metalla X. "Hey, man. Sorry for not getting here sooner."

Metalla X scoffed. "Whatever. You're really confident you can beat my doppelganger? Remember he's got all my powers and entire moveset. You're just fighting me again."

Omega X chuckled. "Guess I get to assess where your current strength is compared to mine."

"Don't be an idiot. You don't got a prayer, but you're welcome to try, my friend," Metalla X cooly said.

"Heh. Hey, Yamakins!" Omega X called out.

"Ugh, I've always hated that nickname," both Metalla X and the Copy muttered irritably.

(End theme)

After Biyomon evolved into Phoenixmon, she and Sora headed over to help Keke, Mosuramon, and Godzillamon contend with Copy Max.

"Sora…?" Copy Max recognized her.

"Max? No, you can't fool me," Sora frowned. "You will give Max back his energy."

(Cue Predator OST - The Trap)

Clenching his fists, Copy Max prepared to attack Sora and Keke. However, having inherited Max's conscience, Copy Max found himself unable to willingly engage them.

Upon seeing Omega X, Sora, and Biyomon's intervention, Grielmon backed off.

"This isn't good. Now we just gotta copy that guy there," Grielmon set his sights on Omega X. An evil, sneaky grin formed on his face. "Heh, should be simple enough…"

"Hey! In case you've forgotten, we're your opponents, jerk!" Ayase said, clenching her fists.

Having gotten Grielmon's attention, Shu, Gai, Ayase, and the Puellas counterattacked the Copy creature. Grielmon desperately fought them off and fired an energy wave that forced them to scatter. Homura responded with a time freeze spell and promptly rewound time, sending the energy wave toward Grielmon. Madoka fired an arrow toward the energy wave, which exploded on contact with him.

Grielmon was blindsided by his own attack, leading to Shu and Gai to dissect him with their swords. Kyoko followed up and shoved her spear through his gut. She tossed him around and slammed him to the ground. Sayaka summoned a tidal wave that blasted him. Ayase rushed at Grielmon, landing quick punches and kicks.

"We've got him, Madoka!" Homura cried out.

With that, Madoka launched her arrows and Homura unleashed beams at the creature. Having been overwhelmed by their attacks, Grielmon took cover to recover.

"...I underestimated them. My body isn't going to last… I'm going to need to take over and steal someone else's body…" Grielmon grunted while planning his next tactic.

Boom!

Grielmon's cover spot was blasted away. The Puellas and company uncovered his hiding spot.

"Ready to give up?!" Shu berated Grielmon.

"Damn it all! I can't die here!" Grielmon scowled. His attention shifted toward Omega X's confrontation with Copy Metalla X.

Omega X floated over to meet Copy Metalla X.

"There's no mistaking you're not Matt," Omega X plainly stated. "But judging by your energy, you're linked to Bebimon."

"This creature originated from some parasitic slime born from Bebimon's eggs," Metalla X stated.

"That makes sense," Omega X acknowledged. He noticed Metalla X's lower body fading out. "Hey, Matt! Your legs are vanishing!"

"Yeah, if you can't beat my doppelganger, I'll cease to exist. But, I doubt you can beat him. He's got my strength and techniques."

"Well now, if I beat him, then it'll be like I beat you."

Copy Metalla X grunted. "Please you don't got a chance, Taichi."

Omega X shot a confident grin at Copy Metalla X. "Don't be too sure." He looked the doppelganger dead in the eyes.

"I never imagined I'd wake to fight you again, Taichi, like old times," Copy Metalla X chuckled.

"Look, Matt and Max don't have much time left. So, I'm just skipping the warm up and beating you fast," Omega X powered up.

"And just so you know, I'm not fighting you dirty. This duel will be one on one stand-off fight," Copy Metalla X firmly stated. "Prepare to face defeat at my hands!"

Overhearing this, Grielmon snarled. "Forget your stupid grudge! Just use your powers to make him just like us as per the will of our father!"

"You stay out of this! If you dare interfere in my fight, I'll destroy you!" Threatened Copy Metalla X.

"You dare to defy our father's will?! It's you who's going to be destroyed!" With that, Grielmon formed an energy ball and crushed it, which discharged an electric shock that paralyzed Copy Metalla X.

"What the hell is this?" Metalla X wondered.

"It's an apparatus used to control whatever free will a doppelganger has left!" Tanukimon blurted out.

Metalla X scowled. "No one dares to control me!"

Copy Metalla X loudly protested, resisting Grielmon's control. "I don't take orders from man or parasitic slime!" He turned to attack Grielmon.

As Grielmon saw his minion preparing to revolt and attack, a fire arrow pierced through Grielmon's chest. Grielmon looked down in shock. He turned to see Sora floating in mid-air with a bow and another arrow. Sora was preparing to shoot another one of her Arrows of Love.

"Damn you…" growled Grielmon as electric energy surged through his slimy body.

"NO ONE CONTROLS ME!" Copy Metalla X bellowed as he shot up and blasted Grielmon back.

(End theme)

As Grielmon crashed into a wall, he found himself vulnerable as Madoka and Shu closed in to finish him.

"How could this be…?" Grielmon grunted weakly.

"I can't believe it! He's managed to overcome and regain his free will!" Tanukimon exclaimed disbelief. "This should be good news for the other doppelganger!"

Much like Copy Metalla X, Copy Max felt light headed. Keke cautiously flew over to check on him.

"Hey, are you ok?" Keke asked the doppelganger. As she reached for him, Copy Max slapped her hand away.

"Leave me be! You should destroy me!" Copy Max demanded. "Or, do you want your boyfriend to blimp out of existence?" He turned Keke toward Max, whose body was already halfway fading out.

"Oh no…" Keke gasped.

"So, what say you?" Copy Max asked Keke.

"Don't you dare…!" Grielmon snarled as he picked himself off the wall. He prepared to use the control apparatus, which Madoka destroyed with an arrow.

"Give up. You've lost," Shu pointed his sword to Grielmon.

"Hardly," Grielmon growled. As he attempted to flee, Homura shot and neutralized him with magic bullets. "Augh!"

"Fall and cease," Homura muttered coldly as Grielmon fell and melted into a puddle.

"Yuck," Sayaka squicked over Grielmon, whose body decomposed.

Copy Metalla X bellowed. "There's no one to stop us now! Let's get this fight started!" He pivoted and faced Omega X, who dropped into a fighting stance.

(Cue Dragon Ball Super OST - A Tough Battle)

"Great! Bring it on fake Yamato!" Omega X punched a fist into his palm.

"Fake?! Hah, bring in on, punk!" Copy Metalla X goaded him to attack.

Omega X briefly turned toward Max, who was watching Copy Max and Keke's confrontation. Godzillamon offered to give Max a lift.

"Hey, eyes on me!" Copy Metalla X shouted as he flew at Omega X, who went for a kick.

Omega X quickly responded with his own kick and countered Copy Metalla X's. Their kicks not only connected, but triggered an explosion. Omega X and Copy Metalla X leg locked. As both jerked their legs back, Omega X went for a spin kick, but Copy Metalla X phased out.

"Whoa!" Omega X balked as Copy Metalla X reappeared behind him and prepared a sledgehammer blow.

"Hey, don't you hold back now!" Copy Metalla X shouted and clubbed Omega X down. He swiftly dropped Omega X in one blow.

Boom!

Omega X crashed into the ground in a heap.

"Tai!" Sora called out as she ran over to him, but Omega X beckoned her off.

"Stay where you are, Sora!" Omega X demanded. "I've got this." He stood ready to fight, but quickly rubbed his side head. "Ow, fake Yamato sure packs a punch like real Yamato."

"Why are you surprised?" Metalla X rolled his eyes. "He literally drained all my energy and fighting skills right out of me."

"Yeah, I knew that. I just need to approach him like I would fighting you. So, real Yamato, do I have your permission to kick fake Yamato's butt?"

"Of course you do," Metalla X then smugly grinned. "Now whether you can defeat me is somehow doubtful."

"All right then. I'll fight him as if both our lives are at stake," Omega X smirked.

"C'mon and take your beating, dumbass Taichi!" Copy Metalla X taunted him.

(End theme)

Taking to the air, Omega X and Copy Metalla X briefly sized each other up. They hastily charged into each other and clashed with thunderous blows. Omega X and Copy Metalla X quickly zipped around a mesa trading fisticuffs. Omega X and Copy Metalla X landed simultaneous kicks and punches. Their blows connected as both were seemingly on par.

Their fight produced resounding shockwaves that shook the area. Only the fighters were able to discern their fighting. However, others like Tanukimon, Shu, Gai, Ayase, and half of the Puellas were unable to keep up.

"Just what the heck is going on?!" Tanukimon was flabbergasted.

"I can't even see those two anymore," Shu observed.

"Yeah, but there's a lot of noise up there," Ayase said.

"No surprise our mere human eyes can keep up with these Ascendants," Gai said.

"Yeah! Kick his ass, Tai!" Kyoko cheered him on.

"Think he'll need our help, guys?" Sayaka wondered.

"I don't think so," Homura said. "But, we're here just in case. Isn't that right, Madoka?"

"Yeah," Madoka nodded. She relied on goddess eyesight to follow the warriors' fighting.

"What the hell are you doing up there, you fool?!" Metalla X openly chastised his rival. "You really think you can beat me with half-assed attacks like those?!"

Bam!

(Cue Dragon Ball Super OST - An Antagonistic Battle)

Copy Metalla X kicked Omega X far and sent him crashing through a rock pillar. As he dove toward his enemy, Copy Metalla X kicked Omega X away.

"What's wrong, Taichi?! Is that all you've got?!" Copy Metalla X chided as he shot toward Omega X and tossed him away. He swooped down and punched Omega X's chest.

Omega X crossed his arms and blocked Copy Metalla X's flurry of punches. Copy Metalla X went on the attack and drove Omega X into the ground. Copy Metalla X punched Omega X hard, unleashing enough power that formed a crater in the ground. Copy Metalla X unloaded more successive punches. Omega X continued blocking and keeping up.

"Damn…!" Omega X cursed under his breath while blocking Copy Metalla X's punches.

"Take this!" Fiercely roared Copy Metalla X, who went for a big punch to Omega X's head.

Omega X slipped a finger to his forehead and used Instant Movement. He teleported out of Copy Metalla X's reach and reappeared behind the doppelganger. Copy Metalla X instinctively sensed Omega X and turned around. The doppelganger went for a kick, but Omega X used Instant Movement to dodge again.

Omega X reappeared on Copy Metalla X's far right.

"Hah, if you think that's a neat trick, check this out!" Omega X teleported away.

Copy Metalla X's eyes shifted around while Omega X used Instant Movement to randomly teleport all over the place. This strategy worked enough that it befuddled Copy Metalla X.

"Stop that!" Copy Metalla X yelled out, veering back and forth as Omega X teleported all over.

"Take this!" Omega X roared as he teleported right in front of Copy Metalla X. He landed a quick jab to Copy Metalla X's face and knocked him back.

"Yeah! He nailed him!" Tike, David, and their Kaijuu Digimon cheered on.

"Shit yeah!" Kara shouted.

Omega X shot up and punched Copy Metalla X. However, Copy Metalla X was more than ready and dodged Omega X's attack. Omega X went for kick, but Copy Metalla X blocked. Copy Metalla X went for a body jab, but Omega X caught his fist. Copy Metalla X strained as he and Omega X locked up. Omega X landed a headbutt to Copy Metalla X's face and followed up with a kick to his face.

"C'mon, what are you waiting for?" Metalla X muttered.

Omega X gut punched Copy Metalla X.

"Hey, faker! If you're going to be like me, then learn to take a hit like a man!" Metalla X hounded his doppelganger.

Irked by Metalla X's insult, Copy Metalla X turned up the heat against Omega X. Copy Metalla X kicked Omega X back.

"Tai!" Sora called out. As she flew over to catch him, she chided Metalla X. "Hey, Tai's risking his neck trying to save you!"

Overhearing this, Keke sighed. "Oh, Yamato's at it again."

Copy Max chuckled. "An asshole never changes, huh?"

Keke couldn't help but smile. "...he's getting better, but Matt does keep him on a tighter leash these days. Wait… I'm supposed to destroy you!" She readied two Rosemary Discs.

Copy Max dropped his guard and invited her to attack. "Go on."

"Keke! What are you waiting for?!" Max called out to his girlfriend.

Copy Max turned his sights on Max and fired a Tsunami Wave.

(End theme)

"Max!" Keke cried out as she tossed the discs at Copy Max.

The discs tore off Copy Max's arms. Copy Max regrew new arms and turned his sights on Keke. Max jumped off Godzillamon and kicked Copy Max's back.

"Damn pest!" Copy Max snarled. He whirled around and punched Max.

Godzillamon intercepted Copy Max and took the punch intended for Max. Copy Max knocked Godzillamon back.

"Godzillamon!" Max cried out as he fell atop his Kaijuu Digimon's head.

Copy Max gritted. "Stay out of this! This is between me and Keke…!" He grunted as Keke kicked him hard in the back. "Attack me with my back turned, will you?!"

As he turned to punch Keke, Copy Max's fist stopped a few inches from Keke's face. Keke closed her eyes. When she opened them, she saw Copy Max withdraw from his attack.

(Cue Dragon Ball FighterZ OST - Rocky Field)

"I can't… why can't I attack…?!"

Keke frowned. "Because you love me. That's why." With that, she flew over and kissed him on the lips.

Taken aback, Copy Max found his lips locked with hers. Rather than resisting and attacking her, he went along with Keke's kiss. Max watched this.

"Keke…?!"

"Whoa, that's the wrong Max you're kissing!" Sayaka shouted.

"Could this actually work?" Ayase wondered.

"Pfft, we kiss better than that," Kyoko said this, winking to both Sayaka and Ayase.

"Hey, something's happening!" Gai exclaimed.

Copy Max felt his body shuddered as blue energy leaked out from his body. Everyone watched as Copy Max's body faded. The blue energy streamed and transferred over to Max. Max's body readily absorbed his energy. As more energy came out of Copy Max, the doppelganger's body started fading quicker.

Copy Max smirked calmly. "...thanks, Keke. You've shown how much you love him…"

Keke nodded. "More than anything. I didn't need to resort to violence to beat you."

Copy Max replied. "Well done." He turned to Max. "You should have all your energy and fighting techniques back, Max."

As enough of his powers returned to him, Max stood up and powered up to Super Ascendant Blue.

"Hell yeah! I've got my full power back!" Max exclaimed.

"Allow me to make it up to you two," Copy Max suggested, setting his sights on Copy Metalla X and Omega X. "We still have to save your father, Keke."

"Yeah, dad's about to disappear if Tai doesn't beat that doppelganger," Keke stated.

Mosuramon queried. "We should hurry or we'll lose Matt for good."

Meanwhile, Omega X and Copy Metalla X continued their battle. Copy Metalla X gut punched Omega X. Omega X landed a kick to Copy Metalla X's chest. The fighters landed on two rock pillars, taking deep breaths.

"Man, looks like Yamato's gotten stronger since the tournament!" Omega X said.

"Heh, did you really think you were the only one training and improving?!" Copy Metalla X retorted.

The warriors launched each other off the rocks and landed headbutts. Omega X and Copy Metalla X rapidly went on the offensive.

"Ugh, this is getting us nowhere!" Metalla X roared as he flew right at Copy Metalla X. "You're mine!" He went for a punch, but to his dismay his fist and whole body phased through the doppelganger. "Damn! What the hell was that?!"

Copy Metalla X snorted. "You still don't understand, do you? Right now you're nothing but a hollow little shell. So, start acting like a shell and watch!"

"Oh piss off! You're doing a pathetic job of fighting him! And you dare claim to be me?!"

Omega X interjected. "Whoa, hey now, Yamato! You do know if I don't beat him, you're going to die, right?"

"Oh you shut up, too! Why do all of you keep saying that? Even Matty boy's giving me an earful! But if it means losing cause I fought like a chump, then I'd rather be dead than live in shame!"

Both Omega X and Copy Metalla X balked at him.

"Listen up and listen well, imposter! Man up and fight hard! Since I can't fight you, I'm putting my bets on this fool so he beats you and I can live!" Metalla X then turned and pointed to Omega X. "And you need to fight better, too, Tai! Don't let yourself get beat by this cheap knock-off!"

(End theme)

Metalla X descended over where Tanukimon and the kids were.

"Um. whose side is he on?!" Omega X and Copy Metalla X said in unison.

Copy Metalla X shrugged and eyed Omega X. "So, how do you like getting called out by a phantom? I hope to savor this a little while longer, but we should bring this fight to an end."

"About time," Omega X scoffed as he powered up with a blue aura. He entered his Super Ascendant Blue state. "Matt and Yamato don't have enough time."

Kyoko grinned at this development. "Ah hell yeah, now this is more like it."

Sayaka sighed. "Welp, this should do it."

Homura added. "I wouldn't be too sure. Remember that doppelganger has Matt's full powers. So, he's able to go blue, too."

Ayase scratched her head, looking dumbfounded. "Man, I'll never get over this whole blue hair business."

Tanukimon was taken aback. "Care to explain this whole blue hair color change?"

Metalla X explained. "A few of us have learned to turn Ascendant God and this is the Super version of that."

The tanuki Digimon blinked. "Erm, a Super-wait… what now?"

Analyzing Omega X's fiery blue aura, Copy Metalla X smirked. "I was wondering when you were going to do that. Now's my turn!" He powered up and went Super Ascendant Blue, too.

Max, Copy Max, and Keke stopped as they were taken in by the Blue Ascendant face-off.

"Crap, this is gonna get rough," Max muttered.

"We've got to stop this fight and let doppelganger Max do his thing," Keke said.

Copy Max waited to make his move. "Relax, I'll get in there. Just gotta make it count." He ignored the fact half of his body was fading out.

Omega X frowned. "Didn't expect you'd be able to turn Super Ascendant Blue like us."

"As I've been telling you, I am Yamato now. Are you ready for this?"

(Cue Dragon Ball FighterZ OST - Match Start (Versus) Theme)

Omega X and Copy Metalla X dropped into fighting stances. They encircled one another, waiting to attack. Omega X went for a front attack and punched at Copy Metalla X. Copy Metalla X countered with an elbow and punched Omega X. Copy Metalla X face grabbed Omega X and shoved him several rock pillars. Omega X rocketed out of some falling rock debris. Copy Metalla X pursued his opponent. Omega X swooped down and clubbed Copy Metalla X's back, knocking him into a rockface.

"Anytime now," Keke whispered to Copy Max.

Copy Max didn't budge yet.

Copy Metalla X shot out of the debris. He and Omega X traded blows again. Copy Metalla X phased out and reappeared behind Omega X. Copy Metalla X rammed a knee into Omega X's back. Copy Metalla X flew up and fired a barrage of Ki blasts. Omega X powered and expanded his blue aura, which repelled Copy Metalla X's blasts. Copy Metalla X relentlessly kept up the Ki barrage. As he kept firing at Omega X, billowing smoke clouds began forming over the vicinity.

As Max made his next move, Copy Max finally initiated his act.

Copy Metalla X witnessed a golden aura flaring and clearing out the smoke cloud. As the smoke stirred, Omega X emerged wearing a golden armored top. The symbols of Courage and Hope gleamed on the armor's centerpiece.

"What?!" Copy Metalla X gaped in surprise.

"This is the Courageous Hope armor. Thanks Kensuke," Omega X muttered.

"You scoundrel!" Copy Metalla X bellowed madly.

"That was a little too close for comfort," Omega X said.

"It's about time we end this!" The doppelganger declared until he felt someone grab him from behind. He looked over his shoulder as Copy Max seized him. "What?! It's you! What do you think…?! Unhand me!"

(End theme)

Copy Max locked both arms around Copy Metalla X.

"I've got a hold of him! Destroy us both!" Copy Max openly pleaded while restraining Copy Metalla X.

"Let me go or I'll kill you!" Copy Metalla X hissed, struggling to break loose.

"Go on, Tai! Finish them off!" Max encouraged him.

Setting his sights on the doppelgangers, Omega X cupped his hands and gathered Ki inside his palms. He veered off and saw Metalla X's body fading fast. His head was barely visible by the naked eye.

"Dad!" Keke called out to Metalla X.

"All right, take this!" Omega X declared, hastily firing a Super Tsunami Wave that blasted and engulfed the two Copies.

"No… no… NOOO!" Copy Metalla X roared while Copy Max smiled as both were being evaporated by the beam.

(Cue Dragon Ball FighterZ OST - Results (Victory Theme))

As the Copy was destroyed, Metalla X looked over his body. He became relieved when he returned to normal.

"Yeah! They did it!" David cheered.

Decade X returned carrying Sam with him.

"Good job," Sam muttered.

"Dad, Max!" Keke cried out happily, hugging Max first. "I'm so glad you didn't fade away."

"Tai might've destroyed those doppelgangers, but it was you who saved us, babe," Max said, kissing her. "You were the one who stopped those two. The fact they didn't attack you showed how much me and Matt care about you."

"Oh, Max… c'mon…" Keke smiled. She saw Metalla X briefly gave a thumbs up before folding his arms again.

"Max!" Sora called out as she and Phoenixmon flew over to him. "Don't you scare us like that again!"

"Look on the bright side, I'm still here, Sora," Max modestly replied.

"Oh, stupid Max," the Bearer of Love sighed in exasperation.

Tike and Kara quickly embraced and hysterically cried over Max.

"I thought we were gonna lose you, Max!" The twins sobbed.

"Heh, they can't get rid of me that easily," Max chuckled, patting their heads.

"MAX!" Gojiramon, who de-evolved, hopped on top of Max's back. "I'm so happy you're ok, buddy!"

"Ok, one at a time, guys! Give me some breathing space!"

Keke giggled over this. "Look who's popular."

(End theme)

David chuckled at his friends' silly antics. He noticed Tanukimon sitting down sighing sadly.

"Hey, you gonna be ok?" David asked the tanuki.

"I wish, but my home has been ravaged here. Where can I go now? The remaining civilizations here are so far off and I don't have any contacts to meet with."

Decade X interjected, offering aid. "If you'd like, we can arrange something for you? The Galactic Council can help you compensate for your losses and relocate the remaining peoples here to another world?"

"How about New Planet Spira?" suggested Max. "The Spirians can take you in."

"They also have Digicores to help revive everyone here except the bad guys!" Kara said.

"Yeah, you just gotta be specific about it," David nodded.

Hearing this, Tanukimon nodded. "All right, I accept. Thank you, everyone. Perhaps with these Digicores, I can restore my planet to its previous majesty."

"That's the spirit," David said.

(Cue Dragon Ball Super OST - Team Dragon's Theme)

As Omega X descended near him, Metalla X scoffed.

"That's the last time I'm letting anything slimy get near me," Metalla X grumbled.

"Heh, that's what you said last time after Bebimon took you over," teased Omega X.

Metalla X sardonically replied. "Ok, smart ass. Very funny, but seriously never again."

"Anyway, you must be proud."

"Of what? And of whom?"

Omega X pointed up toward Keke, who was conversing with Max and Sora. "C'mon, you know who. You have to be proud of what she did to save you and Max. She didn't even have to throw a punch to stop those doppelgangers." He genuinely smirked. "C'mon, give her that much."

As he let out a deep sigh, Metalla X smiled. Matt resurfaced to take over. "I can't speak for Yamakins, but I'm proud of her."

Yamato scoffed inside Metalla X's mind. 'Why wouldn't I be proud of her? I'd just rather let you do it since she's your daughter, Matt! She means nothing… to… me.'

Matt internally chuckled. Don't be so bashful, Yamakins. You really care for her as much as I do. She's our girl.

'Whatever, I'm taking a nap now. But… just tell Keke… I said thanks.'

Sure, I'll pass the message to her.

"Matt!' Keke called out to Metalla X. "Are you ok?"

Metalla X responded with a thumb up. Just then, he heard something move behind him.

(End theme)

A tiny piece of Grielmon began crawling away. As it slipped through some cracks, he moved its way toward Jacomon and Ryo (DF-616)'s ship.

"At last, a way out of here," the slime muttered as it worm crawled toward the spaceship. "I'll take that ship and get off this dust bowl." It was halfway toward the ship. "Once I find another host… I'll rebuild my strength and produce more eggs… and gain more hosts along the way… this is merely a giant setback. It's only a matter of time and we'll carry out our father's will… the will of Bebimon shall live…"

Squish!

A metal end of someone's spear literally squashed the parasite's escape and snuffed out its future schemes. Kyoko pulled her spear up and grinned sadistically.

"Heheheh. No sequel for you, freak," Kyoko smirked. She looked over her shoulder as Sayaka and Ayase squicked over slime dripping off Kyoko's spear. "What? Oh, ugh! Gross!" She shook the parasite's remains off.

The creature's slimy remains plopped on the ground and dissolved away.

Upon witnessing Kyoko kill the parasite, Metalla X sighed. "Well, that's the end of that."

"Though, it's kinda a shame," Omega X spoke up as he walked beside Metalla X. "I was this close to beating you, Matt… technically speaking."

"Hah! Keep dreaming!" Metalla X laughed as he passed by and left Omega X behind.

"Hey, wait up!" Omega X called out.

xxxxx

Digital World/File Island

(Cue Dragon Ball Super OST - Like That Cloud)

Shortly after leaving Planet LV, the group returned to the shoreline where Tai and Sora trained. Jacomon and Ryo (DF-616) took Tanukimon to New Planet Spira to see the Grand Elder to use the Spirian Digicores.

"Hey, sis," Tike walked up to Kara. "Sorry for being a dick."

"For what?" Kara curiously asked.

"For ragging on you and Keke's talent show thing. Just wanted to say sorry."

"It's ok, bro. Say, maybe you want to join in?"

Tike blinked. "Me? Gee, I dunno."

Kara grabbed Tike's hands. "Please? You and David would help make it complete."

"Let's do it, Tike," David added.

"Oh ok," Tike conceded as Kara and David cheered.

Kyoko chuckled. "They think they'll compete with us? Sayaka, you, me, and Ayase are gonna blow them out the water."

Sayaka shrugged. "May the best talent group win."

Madoka giggled as she turned and noticed Homura staring off at the distance sea. The pink-haired Puella walked up to her dark-haired friend.

""Homura?"

"Hey, Madoka."

"Why are you so far from the rest of us? Is something on your mind?" The pink-haired Puella queried, expressing concern with her friend's sudden isolation.

"Nothing you needn't worry about, Madoka," Homura reassured her with a soft smile. "By the way, don't you find it suspicious Kyubey has been gone?"

"Now that you mention it."

The dark-haired girl narrowed her eyes fiercely. "That sneaky little… where has he been?" She muttered under breath.

(End theme)

xxxxx

Holy Sanctuary/Digiverse 10

(Cue Dragon Ball Super OST - Freeza's Scheme)

Back in Gowasmon's solitary shrine, the elder Digi-Deity watched a replay of Omega X's fight with Hit the Hitmon on a small television. Zamasmon entered and put a teacup on the elder's table.

"Master Gowasmon, what is this? Are you watching GodTube again?"

"Why yes. I'm thinking about becoming a GodTuber."

Zamasmon responded with a confounded look.

"Heheh. Jokes aside, you may want to view this fight. You might learn something from it."

Shifting his eyes to the screen, Zamasmon saw Omega X, the very same man who 'tarnished' the holy grounds in Zamasmon's eyes. He watched with keen interest as Omega X turned Super Ascendant Blue.

"I believe this was the tournament Lords Beerusmon and Whismon attempted to recruit you for."

Hmm, that does appear to be Taichi, but what is that brilliant radiance enveloping him? Why that's divine Ki. The Digi-Deity prodigy thought while assessing Omega X's blue aura. A mortal? A mere mortal taking divine power for himself!

Just then, Zamasmon noticed a planet-sized orange orb in the background of the event.

"Master, can you tell what those large bizarre planets are?"

"Those big things? If I had to guess, they must be the Super Digicores."

"Super Digicores?"

"To be frank, this is the first time I've seen them, but Lord Rumsshimon has told me about them. This tournament was determined between the Gods of Destruction of Digiverses 6 and 7. They were competing against each other. Yes, you would've competed on Lord Beerusmon's team if they had recruited you. The winning team would get a wish from the Super Digicores."

So, a prize that even the Destroyers would be vying for? They must contain powers truly special. Zamasmon mulled. "What sort of item are they, master?"

(End theme)

"Lord Rumsshimon informed me they can grant any wish one desires."

Truly? Any wish? Zamasmon thought. "Are you sure this isn't some hearsay Lord Rumsshimon heard about?"

Gowasmon turned toward the screen again. "Look, seems the match is about to be determined."

"Yes…" Zamasmon painstaking glared to the Super Digicores. The Super Digicores.

xxxxx

(Cue Dragon Ball Super OST - Solving the Mysterious Puzzle)

Using his free time, Zamasmon left his master to enjoy his leisure tea. He opened the backdoors and paced through the garden.

"If anyone can entail me about the specifics of the Super Digicores, the legendary Zumonkmon can," Zamasmon muttered, already formulating a plan. "He's said to have vast knowledge on a universal scale. Surely he has the answers I need to plan my next move against Taichi."

Just then, Zamasmon stopped and whirled around. He quickly forged Ki into his right hand. Right in front of him was Rebellious Homura. Kyubey sat on her left shoulder.

"Who are you?! How did a mortal like you reach this sanctuary?!" Zamasmon demanded, ready to strike her down in one blow.

Rebellious Homura calmly replied. "You needn't attack me. I've come here with a message from my superior. He wishes to have an audience with you."

"He?"

"He has knowledge that surpasses Zumonkmon. He can give you answers regarding the Super Digicores. Though what he has to offer is better than a simple wish from a cluster of wish orbs. He can give you the tools needed to defeat Taichi Kamiya and his colleagues."

Zamasmon narrowed his eyes. "Go on."

"His power exceeds any deity you've come to know," Rebellious Homura coolly smirked, brushing her long dark hair back. "If you don't believe me, then I can take you to meet him."

"He can give me tools I need to exact my vengeance on Taichi and carry out my plans to purge the mortals that plague both sides of reality?"

Rebellious Homura nodded. "Indeed. So, shall we go and meet my superior, Zamasmon. Let's make haste before your master suspects of my presence. Though, quite honestly, my power is more than enough to destroy your master and this universe's God of Destruction."

"Then, why don't you? You'd make my job easier."

The dark-haired woman chortled. "Come." She forged a portal behind her. "This way."

Initially hesitant to follow, Zamasmon second guessed himself about letting others in on his crusade. However, the notion there existed someone with a greater wealth of knowledge than Zumonkmon sounded enticing him.

Zamasmon made up his choice. He followed Rebellious Homura through the portal.

(End theme)

xxxxx

?-?

As the portal closed behind them. Zamasmon found himself in an obscured room blanketed in darkness.

"What is this place?" He wondered.

Then, a beacon of light diminished the darkness in the spacious realm. Zamasmon was able to discern Rebellious Homura on the far right. In front of him stood a shadowed figure covered in a dark purple aura. Zamasmon raised an arm and formed an Ki blade in his hand.

"Are you the one that's offering me the tools to defeat my enemies and the mortals I wish to punish?" Zamasmon demanded from the figure.

(Cue Madoka Magica OST - Umbra nigra)

The anomalous being responded with gleaming white eyes. Zamasmon instinctively ran forward to attack the being. What he expected was an easy one hit kill, but as he got closer he felt his entire body become paralyzed. Zamasmon dropped to a knee. The Digi-Deity prodigy winced, feeling immense power weighing him down.

Thi-This power…! This is beyond anything I've ever felt before! My body's being paralyzed by this being?! Just who is this entity?!

The anomalous being answered as if he had already read his mind. "You'll know in time, Zamasmon."

"Why do you require my help if you possess this power?"

"Because I want to see you fulfill your mission in life. I have three tools of destruction you can use to further your goal." As he said this, the anomalous being lifted the weight off Zamasmon. "Permit me and the Rebellious Devil here to show these 'tools' with your own eyes."

After a few breaths, Zamasmon resigned to the being's demands and being put in his place. "Very well. I'm intrigued."

A composed smirk formed on the anomalous being's obscured face.

"Good. This way and meet your new bodies, Zamasmon."

(End theme)

xxxxx

Next chapter: Rise of the Dark HYDRA Network

xxxxx

A/N: Apologies this one took a while to get out, the past two Cross Generations chapters needed to be done and I had family over visiting the first week of July. That and some other distractions caused me to lose focus writing this chapter. Good thing it's out.

Ok, so the chapter wasn't false advertising. You still got Omega X vs. Copy Metalla X. However, the method that ultimately led to their demise probably wasn't what you expected. The Power of Love helped save the day.

Good job Kyoko preventing a sequel bait ending. You spared us a plethora of horror-like sequels, LOL. :P

Homura's suspicions about Kyubey's random absences have been confirmed. During this point, he's been in contact with the anomalous entity, Rebellious Homura and Soma Saitou. And now Zamasmon's been recruited. The next couple of chapters will present Zamasmon gaining the Black Ascendant Trio bodies.

In the meantime while Zamasmon's busy with his new alliance, HYDRA's presence is taking root in the Digital World. Our Android 21 expy, Miranda, is set to launch new experiments, which garners the attention of our heroes.

Next time, the second new arc shall begin. Expect some Marvel character cameos in this. So far, I can only confirm Iron Man, Black Widow, and War Machine will appear in the opening chapters. I'll surprise you with whoever else shows up. This one is slated to be no more than 10 chapters. Probably will be 8 chapters max, but we'll see.

Anyway, that's all I've got. Until the next chapter, send a review and see you again in the next update!