Digimon Fusion Ascendancy
Act VIII: AlphaNova X
Chapter LXXII: The Signer Guardians
Digital World/Continent of Server/Outskirts of Gigabyte Forest
After introducing themselves, Tai, Max, Matt, and their friends sat down with the Signer Guardians and set up camp as the latter group explained their backstory. Hank grabbed and bit into a marshmallow that Max and the D3s provided them.
"So, what you're telling us is that you guys are from another universe? Let me guess, Digiverse 7?" Tai queried the Signer Guardian leader.
"I think so. We're not familiar with these other Digiverses you're referring to," Hank replied.
"We've only heard about one," Sheila said.
"But, the prospect of other Digiverses, including one parallel to this one is quite fascinating," Presto added with great intrigue.
"And just so you know, we live on the same Earth as you all," Diana said.
"It's amazing I've never even heard of you guys. Being a former full-time watcher, I should've noticed you a while ago," Max spoke up. "But, you guys seem fairly new, at least compared to the adventures that my friends and I have been on."
"I'm more fascinated with the Signerdramons you've alluded to. Tell us more," Pikkan insisted.
"What's there to tell, old man?" Fengshe shrugged, throwing shade at Pikkan's expense.
"Feh, you better learn your place, brat," Pikkan scowled at Fengshe.
"Ok, guys. We're not here to bicker!" Tai interjected. "Sorry about that. Pikkan here gets pretty snippy."
"Excuse me? Snippy? Don't stick up for her," the Alterian scoffed, turning away with disgust. "Just tell us how you know about Vengermon and Tiamatdramon."
Hank nodded. "Yeah, sure since we did mention them. We have quite a story to tell you."
"Don't worry, take all the time you want. We're not leaving," Matt said.
"Our Digimon here are getting their fill while you tell your story," Max said while Agumon, Gabumon, Veemon, Patamon, Veemon, Gojiramon, Hawkmon, Armadillomon, and Wormmon ate some roasted marshmallow, fish, and sausage to their heart's content.
"Yay, storytime!" Agumon chimed.
"Tell us how you became Signer Guardians!" Gojiramon said.
"And we'd like to know about your Signerdramons. They sound more like spiritual essences than physical beings," TK astutely pointed out.
"We had allies who use spirits to turn themselves into Digimon, but this sounds like you wielding these Signerdramon's spiritual powers instead of having partner Digimon," Kari said.
"Well, yeah. We don't turn into Digimon per se, but we gain auras that resemble the Signerdramons," Eric said.
"Yep, they totally enhanced our human bodies and allowed us to harness our inner Ki. So, thanks to our badass Signerdramons, we're superhuman, dudes," Bobby said.
"But, you don't wield a Signerdramon. We saw you transform into a dragon," BanchoLeomon addressed Fengshe.
"I'm a unique case. I don't need a Signerdramon to utilize my abilities," Fengshe replied.
"So, let's hear your story, Signer Guardians. Elaborate how you came to be," Max said, setting more wood on the fire.
"As you say, we come from your Earth and our journey started about a few months ago. Though, it only felt like a few days on Earth when we briefly returned. We were just kids hanging out at a theme park," Hank began explaining their experience.
"A theme park? For us, it was summer camp years ago," Tai stated.
Hank continued. "We all got on a ride and we were all together near the front of the carts. It was just the six of us. Then, as we went down a loop, a portal opened up and pulled us in. We were then flung into this unknown world none of us has seen before. We thought we were thrown into another time but as we discovered strange creatures, they looked similar to the monsters that have appeared in our world."
"Digimon, huh?" TK asked.
"Yeah, but we didn't realize what they were until we met the natives in this world. This world became known to us as Planet Faerûn," Hank said. "This world's sovereign is named Baihumon or something."
"That's one of the four Holy Beasts or Sovereigns. They go by either title," Max nodded.
"You sound like you're familiar with them," Presto noticed.
"Yep, we know all five of them," Agumon said.
"What?! They're five of them?!" Sheila exclaimed in shock.
"Besides Baihumon, there's our world's sovereign, Azulongmon, and the others are the hot-tempered Zhuqiaomon, the wise but jovial Ebonwumon, and the eldest Huanglongmon," Tai elaborated on the Holy Beasts. "We saved them after most of them were sealed by Burizalor and his cronies."
"Wow, that's incredible you guys have such powerful connections! I wish we had found you all sooner!" Diana said.
"Can you continue?" Matt asked.
"Yeah, as to what I was going to say, we found out later we fell into Baihumon's quadrant. However, we didn't meet him from the start. The first Digimon we met were Unimon, LovelyAngemon, and Lilamon."
"LovelyAngemon?" TK and Kari responded incredulously.
Gatomon gawked. "What? There's seriously a Digimon named that?"
"Yeah, and she was a very cheerful Digimon who loved fashion and had a penchant for delicious things while hanging out with us," Sheila said. "She's a good friend of ours."
"And Bobby sure had a crush on her," Eric chuckled.
"I mean, hey, she couldn't resist my charming boyish looks," Bobby chuckled.
"Oh brother, there you go," Tengshe scoffed in annoyance.
"Wait, you said Unimon? Is it the same Unimon we know from File Island?" Patamon wondered.
"Hmm, he did tell us we were the second group of kids he's ever met," Presto said.
"Whoa, then he really left for another Digital World?!" Davis exclaimed.
"Baihumon summoned for Unimon to help guard a temple on Planet Faerûn where Hank and his friends claimed to meet him," Max said.
"Yeah, Unimon became close friends with Bobby, too," Sheila reminded him.
"What can I say? The Digimon there vibed with me best."
"Well, not every Digimon. Let's not forget Vengermon. Our first encounter with him was something we'll never forget. We were on our way to retrieve the Signerdramon spirits," Hank stated as he delved into his group's backstory.
Western Digital Realm/Planet Faerûn
"So, is this the Signerdramon Temple?" Hank asked as he and his friends arrived near an ancient and abandoned temple.
"Correct. This is where the Signerdramon spirits are supposedly contained," Lilamon said.
"If we're going to retrieve them, we must hurry!" Unimon suggested.
"Then, what are we waiting for? If we get them, maybe they'll help us find a way back home?" Sheila persuaded her friends.
"Hell yeah, home sweet home!" Eric said.
(Cue Two Steps From Hell - Black Magic Curse)
When the group approached the ancient temple, a red beam came out of the sky and melted the earth in front of them. This sudden attack threw the group back in disarray. LovelyAngemon, Lilamon, and Unimon immediately stood in front of the teens and glared intently at the newcomer. The Digimon's faces contorted with dismay when they discerned the attacker's identity.
"No, it can't be!" LovelyAngemon cried out in disbelief.
"VENGERMON?!" The Digimon trio yelled out together as the aforementioned emerged from a thick veil of dark violet smoke and appeared as a pale-faced demon garbed in a bright red hood and a black cloak. A single sharp and curved magenta horn adorned the right corner of the demon's head.
The red-eyes demon man scanned the Digimon and the humans with knee interest, curling his lisp into a menacing scowl. "These are the chosen wielders of the Signerdramon spirits? Well, it matters not. I have you three to thank for luring them out near the temple." Vengermon spoke in a deep, raspy voice and opened up large red demon wings behind him, allowing him to glide toward the group.
"Vengermon? Who is he?" Diana asked the Digimon trio.
"He's the wicked sorcerer of this world and indiscriminately attacks anyone who approaches the temple," Unimon answered.
"Not quite. According to prophecy, a group of six beings from another world will arrive to retrieve the Signerdramon spirits to defeat Tiamatdramon," Vengermon replied.
"And why does he have a problem with us getting those spirits?" Presto queried.
"Because I seek the Signerdramons to bolster my power and defeat Tiamatdramon myself. Since Unimon and his cohorts have brought you here, you can lead me into the temple."
"Why should we? You're the bad guy here," Eric retorted.
With a loud hiss, Vengermon elicited fear from the teens. "Because the temple's power repels me from entering. However, if I have you undo the seal, I may enter and take what I need."
"We're not going to let that happen, Vengermon! These humans have the right to claim what's now theirs!" LovelyAngemon shouted as she, Unimon, and Lilamon attacked Vengermon.
"Fools, you cannot defeat Tiamatdramon even if you acquire the Signerdramon spirits! I, a wizard of great power, will make greater use of their mystic energies to destroy that being!" Vengermon bellowed as he flew high into the air and unleashed a counterattack on the Digimon trio.
"Go into the temple now!" Unimon called out as he and his colleagues held Vengermon at bay. "Unlock and take the spirits!"
"Alright, you heard him! This is our chance!" Hank declared as he and his friends stormed the temple. As they drew near the temple, Vengermon quickly veered from the Digimon trio and lobbed a fiery beam toward the teens.
The Digimon trio unleashed a flurry of their attacks to stop Vengermon's, giving the teens time to enter the temple unscathed. As they explored the temple, they went through a passage leading them into a labyrinth. After much difficulty and bypassing traps, the teens reached the end of their goal. They saw six giant dragon statues situated on a wall while six small boxes sat on a worn-down stone table.
"It's just like the prophecy said. Six spirits for the six heroes," Presto eyed the six boxes.
"Who wants to go first, my dudes?" Bobby asked, waiting for someone to make the first move.
"I guess I will…" Before Eric could approach the box, Hank reached over and picked up the centermost box. "Heh, you wanna show me up first, Hank? Fine, I'll…" Then, Sheila, Bobby, and Presto went next. "...wait a second!" He then saw Diana pick up a box. "I wasn't done!" He then quickly grabbed the last box.
"I take it those statues there are the Signerdramons?" Diana wondered.
"Yeah, they have to be. Now, which one of us gets which dragon?" Prest speculated.
"How about we all open altogether?" Sheila suggested as she was interrupted by explosive sounds shaking the temple.
"We need to hurry. Let's get these boxes open," Hank said as the group opened their boxes.
At that moment, streaks of varied colors poured out of the boxes and illuminated the spacious chamber. A sleek-bodied dragon with, white steel wings, a pointy-beaked nose, and steel blue and white scales materialized over Hank. Shrouding Eric is a fiery red and black dragon. Diana became shrouded by a dark dragon with rose-schemed feathers. Presto bonded with a black-feathered dragon. Sheila became shrouded with an aura green dragon's aura. Materializing over Bobby is an aura resembling a mustard-yellow dragon.
As the teens and their dragons bonded, their minds and spirits synchronized with each other. The teens then spoke with them as if they already knew them.
"So, we're Signer Guardians and you're my partnered spirit, Stardustdramon," Bobby acknowledged his bond with the sleek-bodied dragon.
"I think we're going to make a little chaos together, RedArchfiendramon," Eric said to the demonic red dragon.
"Your flowery petals are so beautiful, BlackRosedramon," Diana stroked the rose-feathered dragon.
"This is the beginning of a great partnership, BlackWingedramon," Presto addressed the black-feathered dragon.
"I won't let you down, AncientFairydramon," Sheila smiled and pressed her forehead on the aqua-green beast's face.
"We're gonna make a cool-ass team, LifeStreamdramon," Bobby said, patting the yellow dragon's nose.
Once they bonded with the Signerdramons, the Signer Guardians headed out of the temple. By the time, they returned they saw Vengermon hovering over the fallen Unimon, LovelyAngemon, and Lilamon. Upon seeing the Signer Guardians, Vengermon snarled and curled his lips toward the Signerdramons' presence.
"So, you've unlocked the Signerdramons from their seals. Have you reconsidered and are willing to give them to me? I'll relieve you of your responsibility of facing Tiamatdramon," Vengermon stated with the intent of finishing the infamous monstrosity.
"The Signerdramon stay with us, Vengermon. You haven't fully convinced us you'll do as you say," Hank said. "The Signerdramon already entrust their faith in us!"
"Yeah, you hear that? We call dibs on the dragons first, dumbass," Eric remarked.
Scoffing, Vengermon let out an unrestrained growl. "Very well. I shall take the Signerdramons by force by any means!" With that, Vengerdramon launched a furious attack on the Signer Guardians.
(Cue Panzer Dragoon Orta - Gigantic Fleet)
During the battle, the Signer Guardians could access the Signerdramon's elemental abilities. Vengermon proved to be a difficult opponent and pushed the teens to their limits. The Signerdramons' also enhanced the Signer Guardians' human bodies, turning them effectively superhuman. Hank wielded light power, which was effective against Vengermon's dark magic. Eric utilized devastating flames. Diana commanded floral elements and unleashed a flower petal storm. Presto unleashed wind attacks. Sheila attacked Vengermon with divine light. Bobby blasted the sorcerer with earth-based attacks, amassing earth from his surroundings.
After being repelled by the Signer Guardians' attacks, Vengermon realized he had found worthy adversaries standing in the way of his goal.
"Most impressive, Signer Guardians. Yes, you're starting to adapt to the Signerdramons' powers and are using them effectively, but don't this is the last we'll cross paths," Vengermon said as he withdrew and vanished out of sight.
After Vengermon retreated, the Signer Guardians treated the Digimon trio. Sheila used her secondary healing abilities and nursed the Digimon trio. Shortly after, the group was met by the presence of a divine dragon named Bahamutmon, who appeared over the temple.
Bahamutmon addressed the teens with an elder man's tone. "Well done, Signer Guardians. I am blessed you were able to release the Signerdramon from their seals and thank you for not surrendering them to Vengermon. You have passed the first test."
"Wait, that was all a test?! Are you kidding me?!" Eric cried out.
"Calm down, Eric. We're all ok now," Sheila said.
"So, that was all a character test to see if we could be trusted with the Signerdramon. I'd say by not giving them to Vengermon, we passed the test," Presto concluded.
"Correct, and you've shown to have bonded with the Signerdramon quickly. I sense your minds and souls have become synchronized with the dragons. They are your partners and to show your bonds have become secure. You each will receive Digivices," Bahamutdramon said, bestowing the six teens with Digivices based on their Signerdramon's colors. "With these, you'll access your respective Signerdramon and invoke their potential. Whenever you are met with a great crisis such as Vengermon, use the Digivices."
"So, is it true we're here to fight and defeat this Tiamatdramon?" Hank asked the elder dragon.
"Indeed, but you are not yet ready to confront Tiamatdramon. Her power is much too great and to be feared. Even Vengermon fears her horrific powers."
"Which explains why he was desperate of taking the Signerdramon from us," Diana said.
"If Vengermon acquires the Signerdramon, he'll no doubt use them to destroy you and finish Tiamatdramon. As the Signer Guardians, you must not allow Vengermon to take the Signerdramon for his avarice purposes."
"Don't worry. After what we did to him, we ain't got a chance!" Eric bragged.
"Right, but we should be careful when he confronts us again," Hank said.
"Let's not let our new powers go to our heads, Eric. If we're not careful, Vengermon will take advantage of us," Sheila warned.
"You three. You are to accompany the Signer Guardians and ensure they are guided down the right path," Bahamutdramon charged the Digimon trio with guardian responsibilities.
"This is quite an honor, Lord Bahamutdramon. We won't disappoint you," Unimon said as he and his two colleagues bowed their heads.
Once departing, Bahamutdramon left the Signer Guardians and the Digimon trio explored Faerûn. In exchange for their services, Bahamutdramon gave the Signer Guardians access to a Digiport that allows them to cross between Earth and Planet Faerûn. This allowed the Signer Guardians to balance high school life and Signer Guardianship duties.
During their journey, they met various Digimon clans and honed their Signerdramon powers, learning to utilize techniques and incorporate them into their fighting styles. While staying in a village, the locals gave weapons to the Signer Guardians to utilize in their battles. Hank acquired a mystical bow and arrow, allowing him to channel Stardustdramon's light energy into them. Eric was given a shield, channeling RedArchfiendramon's flames to create fire barriers. Diana gained a javelin staff, which she can use to unleash a barrage of rose petals. Presto was given a grimoire that allow him to use spells and enhance BlackWingedramon's power. Sheila acquired an invisibility cloak, which gives her and AncientFairydramon the ability to utilize stealth abilities. Bobby acquired a club, which he can use to shatter the earth.
One day, the Signer Guardians were summoned to investigate some happenings in a particular village. This one village worshipped the Nazca Demons, a group of evil deities who once served RedNovaDemon and were ultimately sealed by Bahamutdramon and the previous Signerdramon wielders. This village was home to a clan called the Yuantimon.
Planet Faerûn/Yuantimon Village
To say that the Signer Guardians and the Yuantimon clan had heated clashes was an understatement. The Yuantimon clan was divided into three subraces: Purebloods, Halfbloods, and Abominations. One Yuantimon stood out not only as a Pureblood but was rumored to contain the power of a seventh dragon.
(Cue Bloodstained: Ritual of the Night OST - The Executioners)
During another clash with the Yuantimon, the Signer Guardians encountered Tengshe for the first time. Initially, she showed extreme hostility toward the Signer Guardians while helping to defend her clan.
"Listen, we don't want any more conflicts with your clan!" Hank called out to Tengshe.
"We're just trying to stop you from summoning the Nazca Demons!" Sheila pleaded. "They're bad news for everyone!"
"Shut up! What do outsiders like you know?! The Nazca Demons will cleanse this world and recreate a better one!" Tengshe angrily retorted. "That is a world that the Yuantimon envisions!"
"You're crazy! No one wants that!" Bobby cried out.
"This world will be free of Bahamutdramon and Baihumon's outdated vision! The Yuantimon future will be upon us!" Tengshe declared as she headed off and attacked the Signer Guardians. Several Yuantimon commanders and soldiers joined in to assist Tengshe.
The skirmish lasted for a few minutes, but the Signer Guardians quickly defeated the Yuantimon, save for Tengshe. Angered by her clansman's defeat, Tengshe's eyes turned bright yellow, and fought back with ferocity. The Signer Guardians used their weapons to repel Tengshe's feral attacks.
As she collapsed in defeat, Fengshe cursed and trembled with fury. "Damn it! How can this be?! I can't be defeated by you Signer Guardians!"
"Listen! I don't want us to fight! I can sense you have a good heart!" Sheila pleaded with Tengshe.
"Foolish girl… I have no heart. I was raised to kill bleeding hearts like you," Tengshe hissed, giving Sheila and the Signer Guardians a crossed look on her face.
"I don't believe you can kill us. You held back for whatever reason," Hank observed. "You should've killed one of us when you had the chance."
Eric sighed with relief. "Don't give her any ideas, man."
"Mark my words. This isn't the end," Tengshe growled as she turned away. "One way or another, the Nazca Demons will be resurrected to this world, just as RedNovaDemon preordained."
"Tengshe, I know you don't mean that!" Sheila called out to the female Yuantimon. As she ran toward Tengshe, Diana held her back. "Please reconsider! We don't have to fight!"
(End theme)
In the end, the Yuantimon warriors retrieved Tengshe and retreated to their village. On her way to their village, Sheila's pleas rang in her mind, causing Tengshe to question her place in the clan and doubt her clan's ways.
Shortly after their encounter with Tengshe, the Signer Guardians were sent to meet with a group of Gargoylemon called the Onigawara clan.
Planet Faerûn/Gargoylemon Tower
One day, the Signer Guardians helped a Gargoylemon clan fend off a Yuantimon group. Tengshe was seen among the Yuantimon and she demanded to see the Onigawara clan. Hank called for a brief truce between the clans, setting up a meeting with Tengshe and the Onigawara clan. The Onigawara clan consisted of six members: the leader, a tall and brutish-looking one with a long mane was named Shuten-Doji. His other colleagues consisted of a second-in-command named Tengu, a short-statured one named Oni, a wise elder named Akuma, a kind-hearted one named Kappa, and a guardian beast with no dialogue named Inu.
During the conversations, they learned shocking truths about Tengshe.
"Hold on, you're telling us you're related to those guys?!" Eric exclaimed in shock over the latest revelation.
"I don't see a resemblance, my dudes," Bobby said.
"It's true. You see, Tengshe is the daughter of one member who exiled herself from our clan," Shuten-doji revealed, intensely staring down Tengshe, who scoffed back. "Kijo left our clan and later joined the Yuantimon. Since then, and after spreading lies, she's led the Yuantimon clan to think we deserve to be exterminated."
"She's concealed her true Gargoylemon appearance to blend in with the Yuantimon," Akuma stated, stroking his long gray beard. "Tengshe was born from a Digiegg as a result of Kijo and a Yuantimon clansman. Rather than inherit our appearance, she gained the Yuantimon serpent-like traits."
"Because my birth father's genes were superior. I inherited superior genetics compared to you Gargoylemon. Therefore, I am superior," Tengshe rebuked. "And then my mother would soon abandon me. That's why I grew to loathe your kind."
"You don't have to feel abandoned anymore, Tengshe," Sheila spoke up, drawing the Yuantimon's attention away from the Gargoylemon. "You can become our friend. We don't need to fight."
"You naive child."
"You don't look much older than I am. So, drop the condescending attitude."
Tengshe muttered. "Look, while you and your friends have been living your lives comfortably, I've had to train to survive. I wasn't given any luxury to enjoy a childhood."
"Listen, you're being such a hard case," Eric responded irritably.
"Tengshe, we just need to settle these disputes between the Onigawara and the Yuantimon clans. We also want your clan to not release the Nacza Demons," Hank tried negotiating with her.
Sitting quietly, Tengshe stared intently at the Signer Guardians and the Onigawara clan. After giving some thought, Tengshe got up from her chair and walked out of the quarters.
"I'll talk with my clan," Tengshe said. Without anyone of them noticing, Tengshe's hardened features softened as Sheila's kind words seemed to strike a cord within her.
"What do you think, Shuten? Can we trust her?" Tengu asked their leader.
I don't know if we can. Have we forgotten who her mother is?" Oni said.
"I don't think she's as bad as her mom, right?" Kappa wondered.
"We'll see. This will be Tengshe's decision to make," Shuten-doji stated.
"I hope she makes the right one," Hank tried to be optimistic.
"I have faith in her," Sheila said with the highest of hopes out of everyone in the room.
A few hours later, Tengshe returned to give her final statement. Before she could confirm her decision, the tower was under attack by two unwanted guests. One of them being Vengermon. And much to Tengshe's shock, a smaller and more feminine variation of Shuten-doji appeared with the demon.
(Cue Xenoblade Chronicles OST - Crisis)
"Kijo?!" Shuten-doji howled out of dismay.
"Great, look who's back!" Diana exclaimed.
"Vengermon, we weren't expecting you!" Hank yelled out, quickly manifesting his Stardustdramon's power.
"Mother is that you?!" Tengshe screamed toward Kijo.
"You look well, my mistake of a daughter," Kijo said whose glowing red eyes are seen as devoid of life.
"Kijo, what has happened to you?!" Shuten-doji yelled out, noticing something off about Kijo's presence.
"It matters not. We're here to eliminate the Signer Guardians. Stand aside, Onigawara clan," Vengermon demanded.
"And if we refuse?!" Akuma roared as he and the Onigawara clan growled and prepared to attack Vengermon.
"We're not letting you take our Signerdramon without a fight!" Hank declared as he and his friends invoked their Signerdramons and stood alongside the Onigawara clan.
"Then, this tower shall become your gravesite," Vengermon growled.
Finding herself caught in the middle of the conflict, Tengshe stumbled back and watched in dismay when the opposing sides clashed. She witnessed the Signer Guardians and Onigawara clan fighting to defend the tower and prevent Vengermon from extracting the Signerdramon spirits. She wasn't given a chance to give her resolution. Then, as she witnessed Kijo hurting Sheila amid the fighting, Tengshe instinctively lunged forward and knocked Kijo back.
"Tengshe?!" Sheila cried out, shocked by Tengshe's rescuing her.
"Leave her alone, mother! Or, you face my fury!" Tengshe hissed as she and Kijo briefly fought. "You're under Vengermon's control! I shall break you free!"
"No, my child. I am doing this of my free will. I came here as an assignment and to ensure Vengermon gets what he needs."
"He'll use the Signerdramon to empower himself!"
"Yes, as a means to defeat Tiamatdramon! You are the one who's been misled by the Yuantimon!" Kijo shouted. "And the girl I attacked? She merely got in my way." She briefly glanced at Sheila's arm wound. "Divorce yourself from the Yuantimon clan. They're the ones who wish to resurrect the true evil of this world."
"You don't mean the Nazca Demons, but they…"
"Destroy everyone, including us. We will cease to exist once the Nazca Demons reformat this world."
Upon hearing this horrifying revelation, Tengshe was left in a state of despair. She couldn't even mutter a single response and looked down in defeat. Sheila crawled over and hugged Tengshe.
"We're not going to let that happen, Tengshe. We won't let those demons be revived! I promise!" Sheila cried against Tengshe's back.
During the skirmish, Vengermon was driven back by the Signer Guardians and the Onigawara clan. When Vengermon fled, Kijo prepared to take her leave. Before leaving, she briefly saw Tengshe being embraced by Sheila. Kijo left with a smile. Tengshe pulled away, drying her tears as she finally realized she had given her a warm embrace, which even her mother never gave her.
(End theme)
"Th-Thank you, I don't know how I'm supposed to take this. I've never quite experienced affection before," Tengshe tried to take these new emotions she never felt before in.
"Let's take it a step at a time, Tengshe," Sheila suggested, holding Tengshe's hands.
"Let's get going. So, are you going to withdraw from the Yuantimon clan? They didn't even bother to come to rescue you," Hank said.
Realizing that her clan members didn't attempt to rescue her during the attack, Tengshe nodded. "I'm not going back to them. Let's leave together."
(Cue Chinese Fantasy Music - Dawn of Wonders - Adrian von Ziegler)
With that, Tengshe defected from the Yuantimon clan and joined the Signer Guardians. After making amends with the Onigawara clan, she and the Signer Guardians ventured to find Vengermon and confront Tiamatdramon.
During their downtime, Tengshe's bond with Sheila drew them closer. Despite this, Hank, too, developed a relationship with Sheila in and outside Faerûn. After hearing about Earth's customs, Tengshe expressed curiosity about high school life and asked the Signer Guardians to show her. To conceal her serpent features, Fengshe used a human guise, which was just herself without her body scales. She settled in their school as a Taiwanese exchange student and mostly stuck with Sheila & Hank.
(End theme)
Planet Faerûn/Tiamatdramon's Domain
The day had finally come for the Signer Guardians and the Digimon trio to confront Tiamatdramon. After exploring Faerûn and acquiring enough experience from various battles, the heroes prepared to face the evil dragon, who turned out to be a composite of five different Digimon dragons. When they faced her, Tiamatdramon was described to have the middle head, wings, and body of Examon; her right head is Groundramon; the left head is Wingdramon; her farthest right head is Brakedramon; and the farthest left head is Slayerdramon.
(Cue Tiamat's Battle Theme - Neverwinter)
"I've awaited this day, Signer Guardians! Now, I can end your legacy and claim your Signerdramon spirits!" Tiamatdramon declared her intentions. "As much power and magic you've acquired, you still cannot hope to win!"
"We don't need to hope. We will slay you, Tiamatdramon," Hank rebuked as he and the others brandished their weapons and Signerdramon auras.
"Be careful, Signers. Tiamatdramon's power may be greater than Vengermon's," Tengshe warned them.
"Don't worry, we've beaten Vengermon already and gained enough experience. Surely we can win, right?" Presto asked.
"C'mon, let's show her scaly ass what we're made of!" Eric boasted.
"Let's not let it go to our heads," Diana advised them.
"Come at me and face your end, Signer Guardians!" Tiamatdramon bellowed as her Examon head expelled a blast toward them.
The battle was a difficult one and the Signer Guardians were pushed to their limits. However, the group split into smaller units to take on each head. Hank, Sheila, and Tengshe fought the Examon head. Eric battled Wingdramon head. Presto and Lilamon fought the Slayerdramon head. Diana fought the Groundramon head. Bobby, LovelyAngemon, and Unimon took on the Brakedramon head. After a grueling battle, the heroes weakened each head, but before they could continue the battle, Vengermon made an untimely intervention and blasted the heroes away.
"You've made it quite easy for me since you're all amassed in one place! Now to take what I need!" Vengerdramon boasted as he prepared to collect the Signerdramon. However, Tiamatdramon blasted him with various elemental blasts from all five heads.
"The Signerdramon spirits are mine to claim, Vengermon!" Tiamatdramon bellowed.
"Not when I'll claim them first and destroy you…!" Just as Vengermon was about to finish, the demon felt his body being restrained on its own. Then, his eyes turned red and another voice spoke through him. "Tiamatdramon, cease your attack. I've been waiting for this moment and take control over Vengermon."
"That voice? Is that you, RedNovaDemon?"
"Collect and destroy the Signerdramon spirits. We cannot allow them to converge and destroy my plan to revive the Nazca Demons. I've manipulated the Yuantimon clan to do my bidding."
Hearing this, Tengshe was taken aback. "RedNovaDemon has using my clan?"
"We can't let them take the Signerdramon, guys!" Hank called out.
As the Signer Guardians rose and faced down their two greatest enemies, they finally released the full power of their Signerdramon spirits. The Signerdramon's true forms materialized around each Signer Guardian and sealed the teens within them. Having gained their physical forms, the Signerdramon fiercely attacked Tiamatdramon and Vengermon. Then, amid the gigantic battle, AncientFairydramon was struck by Tiamatdramon's blasts, dealing it and Sheila severe injury.
"SHEILA! NO!" Hank called out as he and Stardustdramon collided with Tiamatdramon.
(Cue ParaWorld Music - Maintheme Dragon Clan)
Upon seeing Sheila being attacked, Tengshe's emotions burst out as she underwent an extreme transformation and physically turned into a dragon with four three-clawed wings, a pair of thick legs, a thick spiked tail, and a pair of long, thin whiskers adorning its nostrils. Its head and tail are magenta red, its body is covered in yellowish-green scales, and its wings are yellowish-orange and magenta red. Opening its mouth, the beast let out a fierce roar and attacked Tiamatdramon with reckless abandon.
"She has been the one Yuantimon with Iodramon's power?!" Vengermon was taken aback by this outcome. Once RedNovaDemon took him over again, the demon was charged with taking the Signerdramon spirits again.
Thanks to Iodramon, the tide of the battle turned against Tiamatdramon and Vengermon. Iodramon's power alone was greater than the Signerdramons, allowing her to remove Vengermon from the battle, but sending him flying far away. The Signer Guardians and the Signerdramon's combined power was enough to deal the final blow to Tiamatdramon. With the evil dragon slain, the Signer Guardians met with Iodramon, who completely drained from the fight turned back into Tengshe.
(End theme)
Tengshe checked over Sheila. "Are you ok?"
"I'll be fine since I can heal myself," she reassured her.
"It looks like it's over. We've defeated Tiamatdramon," Hank said.
"Not yet, there's still Vengermon," Presto pointed toward the aforementioned demon sorcerer.
Vengermon regained his bearings and realized he was freed from RedNovaDemon's control. With the evil god's control lifted, Vengermon confronted the Signer Guardians.
"I know we've been in conflict, Signer Guardians, but I was under RedNovaDemon's control. He had me and Tiamatdramon try to eliminate you so he may revive the Nazca Demons. Now, it appears that you've destroyed Tiamatdramon, his plans have been halted."
"So, what are you going to do?" Hank cautiously asked the sorcerer.
"Now that you removed Tiamatdramon, I don't have to face my eternal enemy anymore. I intend to aid Bahamutdramon and you in future battles. Understand that RedNovaDemon won't rest until you are all defeated," Vengermon warned the Signer Guardians.
"Yes, and I know he'll continue to manipulate my Yuantimon clan."
"Perhaps together we can try and sway them from RedNovaDemon's path?" Vengermon asked Tengshe.
"We'll see, but for now I want to rest," Tengshe said, turning around as she faced Hank and Sheila. "I have friends I want to spend time with."
"Until you're ready then, child," Vengermon said as he flew away, leaving the Signer Guardians behind.
(Cue 03 - Neverwinter Score - Protector's Enclave)
After the Tiamatdramon battle, the Signer Guardians returned home for a short reprieve. They were summoned by Bahamutdramon for a meeting. Bahamutdramon confirmed Vengermon's warning about RedNovaDemon's activities and refusal to withdraw his plans to revive the Nazca Demons. He even warned Tiamatdramon's return is highly likely soon. He also confirmed that Tiamatdramon is his sister.
During the short reprieve, Tengshe helped Vengermon with trying to convince the Yuantimon clan to withdraw from RedNovaDemon control. In the meantime, Tengshe became Vengermon's adoptive daughter.
And after this, the Signer Guardians and Tengshe were sent to a Digital World where they fought DoneDevimon, and were promptly rescued by the Digidestined.
Digital World/Continent of Server/Outskirts of Gigabyte Forest
"And that's our story, guys," Hank finished his team's backstory and brought them up to speed on their current point.
"I can't believe you guys met our Unimon," TK smiled.
"And the fact you all have the power of dragons. That's wicked awesome," Davis added.
"Moreover, you've confirmed that RedNovaDemon is still active. After all, he's the one who enhanced Burizalor, the Warlord, and Cyrus before they arrived to fight us," Max reminded his friends about the Fiends' counterattack.
"So, you've also encountered that monster," Tengshe said.
"Yeah, but only indirectly. With you guys here, maybe we can take him down," Tai replied.
"So, the Yuantimon were manipulated by RedNovaDemon. Perhaps I misjudged them, but that doesn't change the fact my Alterian people had a conflict with them in the past," Pikkan said.
"Listen, you…" Tengshe growled.
"I didn't mean to get on your case. I'm sorry," Pikkan apologetically said. "That said, we do have a common threat we must contend with."
BanchoLeomon nodded. "I'm glad we're able to resolve any past cultural differences. We need everyone on the same page."
"Right, we don't need any quarrels among each other," Matt replied. Isn't that right, Yamakins? He chuckled under his breath, hearing Yamato let out an audible scoff in his mind.
"Well, Signer Guardians. We'll gladly help with anything you need. You want us to help deal with RedNovaDemon, we're here," Tai said as he and Hank firmly shook hands, sealing their new alliance.
"Thank you, Digidestined," Hank said.
"Besides RedNovaDemon, there's still the matter of Burizalor," Matt reminded Tai. "The last thing we want is Burizalor and RedNovaDemon forging their own unholy alliance."
"Oh yeah, that would suck."
"If they dare show up and cause trouble, we'll put them in their place, Tai!" Agumon cheerfully boasted.
"Yeah, you got that right, buddy," the Bearer of Courage concurred, recognizing the fact that Burizalor was still a threat to contend with if he ever showed up to cause the Digidestined problems.
(End theme)
Burizalor's Spaceship
(Cue Dragon Ball Super: Broly OST - Ruled by Freeza)
"Lord Burizalor, I've brought our guests aboard," Beribulumon said, escorting a few guests aboard the bridge.
When Burizalor turned around, he was met by two of his troops, Cheelaimon and Lemomon. Standing with them are three newcomers: an aged man sporting a thick white heard and hair, a scar over his right eye, and battle armor; a tall, spiky black-haired young man with an upper muscular build, a scar over his right cheek, a cross-shaped scar on his right pec, wearing a green fur pelt, and a thing silver neck collar; and the third is a DORUmon, a small timid purple-fuzzed draconic-faced reptile.
"Judging by that uniform, you appear to be a Digital Knight," Burizalor addressed the older warrior.
"I am. I escaped the destruction you caused many cycles ago."
"And do you hold any grudge toward me? I did destroy the Digital Knight Council on that fateful day."
"That was a long time ago. My allegiance with the Digital Knights died when you destroyed them. I am Brakus. This young man over here is my adopted son Kenji."
Veering from Brakus, Burizalor's sights were firmly on Kenji and DORUmon. "I can sense your son has latent potential. He is undoubtedly an Ascendant. His Digimon also has powerful reserves of energy.."
"Yes, they've both a danger to themselves and me. I've done all I can to control them," Brakus stated.
"I see. Has this mighty warrior and his partner lost their minds and exploded since then?"
"Yes sir, but on the rarest occasions."
"You're saying this could still happen, correct? That means you brought danger to my ship," Burizalor narrowed his red-eyed gaze, scaring Brakus to death.
"There's no need to worry, I swear!" Brakus yelled, quickly taking out a handheld apparatus from his leg pouch. Seeing this elicited distressed reactions from Kenji and DORUmon. "I can use this remote device that can pump up bolts of electricity through his body. While it's not a strong current, it will allow me to rein him in if he acts out."
As Kenji reached for his shock collar, DORUmon tried to console the frightened young man.
"Intriguing. Kenji, is it?" Burizalor approached the tall, dark-haired youth. He was met with no response as the tall youth cautiously scanned Burizalor's bridge.
"Please, sir. Excuse Kenji."
"Hmm, it would seem you have untapped battle power," the digital tyrant keenly eyed Kenji. "And your Digimon has quite an intriguing power, too."
"I've trained Kenji well, and DORUmon is quite capable. But, together they make an effective fighting pair," Brakus vouched for them. "I'm sure they can be great use to your troops and support."
Burizalor gave a haughty laugh. "This is quite the unexpected bounty. Beribulumon, would you offer a reward to the two who brought our guests aboard?"
Upon receiving their reward from Beribulumon, Cheelaimon and Lemomon gasped with delight at the tokens they received.
"Would you look at that? It's a fortune!" Lemmon said.
"Thank you so much for your generosity, sir!" They bowed and stormed out with their reward money.
"I've been told you were trapped on that dreadful barren planet for a long time?" Burizalor asked Brakus.
"That's correct, sir."
"And you're willing to let go of what I did to your homeworld those many cycles ago? Most of your comrades have perished since then. You understand by aligning with me, you'll become part of the Buriza Forces?" The tyrant asked, awaiting Brakus to reconsider his decision.
"Yes, and as I said, my allegiance with the Digital Knights died when you destroyed our homeworld and none of them came to find us. I do not mourn for them. My enemy is yours now, Lord Burizalor."
"Perhaps this is your chance at revenge?" Burizalor chimed, catching Brakus by surprise.
"What do you mean?"
"Did you know Gennai survived the destruction that day?"
"He did?" Brakus responded by gnashing his teeth. "Of course, he would survive! That arrogant bastard never came to find me or my son! He must pay!"
"Then, please allow me to lend a hand and grant you your revenge. Berbulumon, please show these three to their new quarters and tidy it up. They'll require some new battle uniforms as well."
Beribulumon bowed. "Yes, milord." With that, Burizalor's aide escorted Brakus, Kenji, and DORUmon out of the bridge and toward their room.
Standing in solitude, Burizalor gazed toward space and muttered. "I wasn't planning to fight Ascendants now. That said, this is proving to be far more interesting to pass up." He then reflected on the day he destroyed the Digital Knight Council and their homeworld. Hmm, I do wonder how I missed yet another Ascendant. If Brakus adopted him, he must've met the young man on that planet when he was an infant. He and DORUmon must've been experiments. I seem to recall the Digital Knights artificially creating warriors using Alpha X's DNA. It seems this boy has inherited a bulk of that Ascendant's raw potential. He's not like Yagami in that regard since only Yagami's partner was artificially created from Alpha X. Hmm, it looks like I hit the jackpot. What a lucky break for me.
As he floated back into his chair, Burizalor further reflected on the day he first took power and his wars against the Digital Knight Council. "Those were the days. Back when the Great Wars changed the face of the Digiverse… and back when Taito Yagami and his crew were a nuisance to my clan. I destroyed them, but Gennai escaped to ensure the Chosen would meet their destinies, and in turn, Taichi would become the first Ascendant in millennia and defeat me. Now, come full circle and I find survivors from that Great War, and one who bears a deep grudge against Gennai. Who would've thought of that possibility? Well, now I'll bear witness to the end of Gennai's legacy, and in turn witness Taichi and his friends' downfall." Relishing at these thoughts, a malevolent smile adorned his black lips. "Still, I do remember those days. It takes me back to when I was young and much more unruly. The days of bloodshed and terror."
(End theme)
Next chapter: Taito's Ascension
A/N: Thoughts on the Signer Guardians? I mostly told the important parts and glossed over less crucial events to save time.
Yes, many of the characters are based on the Dungeons & Dragons lore: Venger, Tiamat, and Yuantimon. The Gargoylemon/Onigawara Clan are, no surprise, based on the Manhattan Clan from Gargoyles. Bahamutdramon should also be no surprise where he's based, but he also takes over the Dungeon Master's role. The Signer Guardians' names are the same as the kids from the '80s cartoon, but they are not the same. You'll find out that they got the names from their parents. And of course, the Yu-Gi-Oh! 5Ds references with the Signer Guardians, the Signerdramons, the Nazca Demons (the Earthbound Immortals), and RedNovaDemon.
Every conflict in the Signer Guardians' story ties back to RedNovaDemon, the very same demonic god who augmented Burizalor, the Digital Warlord, and Cyrus' powers and gave Burizalor his golden form. An encounter with RedNovaDemon is coming but that conflict will come at a later time.
This chapter also introduces our story's Paragus (DBS) and Broly (DBS). Previously, I integrated the Z variations of them as different characters, but they're both dead now. So, Brakus and Kenji take over. Moreover, I've partnered Kenji with DORUmon. Yep, a powerful Ascendant paired with an X-Antibody Digimon.
And thus truly begins the Super Broly adaptation. However, we shift from that and take a look at the past when I finally present my new Bardock adaptation, which I will not fully base on Dragon Ball Minus. It will adapt the original Bardock special and integrate parts of the Dragon Ball Super: Broly's first half. Why am I doing this? Because I never got the chance to reboot my original Bardock adaptation, which I wrote back in 2004! Makes me feel old. Since I'm not going to post separate movie fics, this is my chance to put my refreshed Bardock adaptation here.
So, for the next couple of chapters, let's have a look at Taito's backstory (as well as Kenji's appearance when he's introduced) and how the Great Wars happened.