Hibiki's question left Saga momentarily thoughtful. He met her gaze with a serene expression, taking a brief pause to gather his thoughts before providing an explanation."What I used to manipulate your thoughts and emotions is called 'cosmos.' Cosmos is the essence that resides within every living being, the energy that connects us to the universe. It is a force that can be harnessed and channeled."
To demonstrate, Saga focuses his concentration and extends his arm. A brilliant flame emerges from his fingertips, flickering and dancing in the cold air. The intensity of the fire creates a stark contrast to Miku's warm sunshine-like presence that Hibiki is familiar with.
Hibiki observes the distinct difference between the gentle warmth she associates with Miku and the burning heat of Saga's cosmos. The display further emphasizes the power and control that can be achieved through the understanding and manipulation of one's own cosmos.
Curiosity fueled by a newfound sense of hope, Hibiki asks, "Is it possible for me to develop my own cosmos? To have this power?"
Saga nods, acknowledging her eagerness. "Yes, Hibiki, every human possesses cosmos within them. It is a matter of training and refining your control over it," he says matter of factly. "Through practice and guidance, one can learn to harness their own cosmos to its fullest potential."
Hibiki's eyes light up at the prospect of tapping into this hidden power within herself. She recalls something Starlit mentioned in their final moments, a cryptic message about finding the medic blessed by the Ophiuchus constellation. The memory gives her a newfound hope, fueling her determination to explore this path.
Filled with a mix of determination and anticipation, Hibiki turns her attention back to Saga and aks, "Will you teach me about cosmos, Saga? Will you help me learn to unlock and control my own power?"
Saga contemplates for a moment, weighing the urgency of the imminent threat and his personal reasons. Ultimately, he acknowledges Hibiki's potential and the significance of her journey. "I will train you, Hibiki. However, it will take time and we may not have that luxury at the moment. I can teach you the fundamentals, starting with learning to burn your own cosmos."
Hibiki feels a surge of hope and anticipation building within her. She understands that the path ahead will not be easy, but she is willing to embrace the challenge. With each beat of her heart, Hibiki's determination intensifies. She knows that the road she has chosen won't be easy, but she welcomes the challenges that await her. They are not obstacles to deter her, but rather opportunities for growth and self-discovery.
Saga observes Hibiki's enthusiasm and the glimmer of hope in her orange eyes. "Hibiki, while I am willing to teach you about the cosmos and help you unlock your power, we must consider the time constraints imposed by the impending threat. I may not be able to teach you everything," he pauses as looks to see if she is understanding him. "This plan could fail."
"I understand," says Hibiki.
"I also have personal matters I must attend to. This will be challenging, but after you learn how to burn your cosmos, you will then be able to learn anything.."
Hibiki listens attentively, her emotions intertwining with a renewed sense of hope. The possibility of uncovering her hidden abilities and channeling her cosmos fills her with determination. She remembers Starlit's final words about finding the medic blessed by the Ophiuchus constellation.
As the memory resurfaces, Hibiki's voice trembles slightly as she asks, "Saga, before we begin, there's something else I need to mention. Do you know anything about the medic blessed by the Ophiuchus constellation?"
His gaze fixed on her as she mentions the medic blessed by the Ophiuchus constellation. His mind races, trying to piece together the fragments of information he knows about Ophiuchus and the significance of Hibiki's sudden interest. "Ophiuchus. You're referring to the Gold Saint of Ophiuchus, aren't you?" Saga asks, his voice tinged with curiosity. "Why do you need the assistance of the Gold Saint medic?"
Hibiki takes a deep breath, her eyes shimmering with a mix of emotions. "Someone I once knew asked me to find this person. They said to find the medic blessed by the Ophiuchus constellation. Can you tell me more about the connection between the Gold Saints and the constellations? How does it all work?"
Saga nods and turns back to her, acknowledging her curiosity. "There exists 88 Saints of Athena who dedicate themselves to protecting justice and the Earth. Each of these Saints align themselves with a specific constellation, representing the stars that adorn our skies." He continues, his voice filled with reverence and awe. "Among these Saints, the Gold Saints hold the highest rank. They are the epitome of strength and power, chosen by Athena herself. Their Gold Cloths are sacred armors blessed by the constellations, granting them immense cosmic energy and extraordinary abilities."
Hibiki's eyes widen in awe as she envisions the magnitude of their power. "So, the Gold Cloths are not just armors, but conduits of celestial energy? Do they channel the essence of the constellations themselves?"
Saga nods, his expression solemn. "Indeed. The Gold Cloths amplify the cosmos of the Gold Saints, enabling them to tap into tremendous power. It is through their connection with the constellations that they become the ultimate defenders of Earth and Athena's chosen champions.
Hibiki takes a moment to absorb the significance of this knowledge. The power of the Gold Saints and their connection to the constellations fills her with a sense of wonder and respect. She realizes that finding the Ophiuchus Gold Saint and his blessed cloth could be the key to unlocking even greater strength in their battle against T.E.C.
"Thank you, Saga, for informing me," Hibiki says gratefully. "To think that the constellations themselves bestow their power upon the Gold Saints is inspiring. It only strengthens my resolve to find the Ophiuchus Gold Saint and harness the full potential of my cosmos."
"Now lets go find this blessed medic!" says Saga.
Hibiki and Saga set foot in the vibrant city, their steps resonating along the bustling streets adorned with colorful awnings and vibrant market stalls. The air is alive with the symphony of voices, as vendors enthusiastically promote their goods, their calls intertwining with the melodies of street musicians.
Together, they weave through the lively throng of people, their eyes gleaming with curiosity as they take in the myriad of sights and sounds. Fragrant aromas dance through the air, enticing passersby with the tantalizing promise of exotic delicacies. Colorful tapestries and trinkets adorn the stalls, their intricate designs captivating the eye.
Hibiki's gaze flits from one vendor to another, the vibrant displays captivating her attention. Intricate jewelry glimmers under the sunlight, while shimmering fabrics catch her eye, inviting her touch. The rhythmic beat of a drum echoes in the distance, drawing them closer to a small circle of onlookers gathered around a talented street performer.
Saga's experienced gaze scans the surroundings, his eyes capturing the essence of the city and its people. He observes the exchange of goods and stories, immersing himself in the vibrant energy that permeates the atmosphere. The city streets are a living tapestry of diverse cultures and experiences, interwoven with the threads of daily life.
After a little while, they finally reach their destination – a modest building tucked away in a corner of the city. The sign hanging above the entrance reads "Ophiuchus Karaat, Unlicensed Medic." The weathered exterior of the building hints at the passage of time and the countless patients who have sought solace within its walls.
Taking a deep breath, Hibiki and Saga step inside, the creaking of the door announcing their arrival. The interior of the consulting room is dimly lit, with shelves lined with herbs, potions, and medical equipment. The scent of various concoctions lingers in the air.
As they enter, Karaat is hunched over a wooden table covered in scrolls and medical texts. Startled by Saga's sudden appearance, he jumps up from his chair, knocking over a bottle of ointment in the process. The contents spill across the table, creating a mess of fragrant herbs and vibrant colors.
"You could have at least knocked," Karaat exclaims, attempting to salvage what remains of the spilled ointment. He glances at Hibiki, a mix of surprise and curiosity evident in his eyes. "And who is this young lady?"
Saga, unruffled by Karaat's reaction, steps forward and gestures toward Hibiki. "This is Hibiki. She's been looking for you."
Karaat's gaze shifts from Saga to Hibiki, uncertainty etched on his face. He wipes his hands on a cloth, attempting to compose himself. "Hibiki, you say? So you want me to perform an abortion? Is that it?"
Saga begins to laugh and Hibiki says, "Have you gone mad?"
"For your one-night stand? No?" asks Karaat.
Hibiki's face immediately became reddened with rage, and her eyes immediately grew furious. She responded, "What did you just say?" with a raging wrath in her voice.
Without hesitation, Hibiki launched into a vehement tirade, berating Karaat for his disrespectful comment. She listed all of her achievements, intelligence, and skills, telling him of the countless times she had proven herself capable and knowledgeable. Her words were filled with a mix of hurt and frustration, determined to make Karaat understand the gravity of his words.
Hibiki's eyes locked with Karaat's, her voice concluding with determination. "I won't stand for being insulted. Who do you think you are? What did I do to make you think that?"
"Well…There's been so many, I just assumed-"
"Well I'll just assume something horrible about you too then," said Hibiki.
"No, don't," said Karaat with his arms out to try to diffuse the situation.
"I think maybe you look like someone who-"
Meanwhile, Saga had been quietly observing the interaction. He couldn't help but let out a chuckle, interrupting her. He found the whole situation amusing, though he understood the potential for tension to escalate further. Recognizing the need to diffuse the situation, Saga intervened, stepping in to control the escalating emotions, "That's enough. He didn't mean anything by it."
Hibiki's attention, however, quickly shifts to the small and cute figure standing beside Karaat—the goddess Shem-Ha. A sense of warmth and compassion emanates from her, drawing Hibiki closer.
"Hello there! You're so adorable and small!" Hibiki squeals. "Now what do they call you?"
Hibiki, caught up in the moment and drawn to Shem-Ha's adorable presence, instinctively reaches out and picks her up. However, as soon as she does, kicking and screaming ensues. Shem-ha did not appreciate Hibiki's affections.
Hibiki, refocused on her purpose, turns her attention back to Karaat, determined to seek his guidance. She takes a moment to gather her thoughts before addressing him.
"Karaat," Hibiki begins, her voice filled with a mix of anticipation and earnestness, while Shem-Ha is beginning to tire from her protests. "Do you know Starlit, the one who sacrificed herself, and a girl named Miku?"
Karaat's eyes meet Hibiki's, his expression carrying a glimmer of recognition. "Yes, I am familiar. What about it?"
A surge of hope fills Hibiki's heart, knowing that Karaat is aware of the individuals she seeks. She takes a deep breath, her voice steady as she continues. "Starlit entrusted me with her dying wish, to find you, and most likely to ask for your help. She believed you held the key to stopping the impending demise of the parallel worlds at the hands of Nikola Tesla," she stops and looks at Shem-Ha.
"That's Shem-Ha. I was revived after my own ordeal and I discovered her," said Karaat. Karaat turns to Saga, his expression now filled with curiosity and concern. "Saga, what is she talking about? I am unaware of this Nikola Tesla and his plans."
Saga takes a moment to gather his thoughts before explaining the situation to Karaat. "Karaat, Nikola Tesla was a brilliant scientist from Earth who, in his quest to create a utopic world, devised a plan that involves sacrificing parallel worlds and their populations. His intentions are to reshape reality according to his vision, but this comes at an immense cost."
Hibiki interjects, her voice filled with urgency. "We believe that the reason we were brought back to life in these parallel worlds was to stop Tesla and prevent the destruction he seeks to bring. Starlit sacrificed herself."
Karaat's eyes widen, a mix of shock and realization crossing his features. "Could it be that our resurrections were guided by a greater purpose, to intervene in this apocalyptic plan? It would explain why we have been brought together and the sense of urgency we all share."
"I believe so," says Hibiki.
Karaat's voice quivered with a mix of determination and worry. "We cannot allow such destruction to occur," he declared, his eyes shining with conviction. "We must do everything in our power to stop Tesla and protect the parallel worlds."
Feeling a newfound sense of trust in Saga's judgment and a deepening understanding of the gravity of the situation, Karaat and Shem-Ha made a resolute decision to join forces with Saga and Hibiki. He recognized the importance of their united front in the face of Tesla's looming threat.
With a determined expression, Karaat took a deep breath and donned his majestic Ophiuchus Gold Cloth, the embodiment of his unwavering resolve. The golden armor enveloped his body, emanating a powerful aura that symbolized his commitment to protecting the parallel worlds.
Once prepared for the arduous journey ahead, Karaat turned to Saga and posed a crucial question. "What about Asgard and the other Gold Saints who might still be alive? How should we handle them?" Karaat's voice carried a mix of concern and determination, aware that they could be powerful allies or formidable foes.
Saga paused for a moment, his eyes scanning the horizon as he contemplated the best course of action. With a faint smile, he responded, "I want to believe in our abilities, Karaat. Let us focus on the imminent threat posed by Tesla and his plan. Once we have dealt with that, we can address any other challenges that arise, including Asgard.
His words resonated with Karaat, who trusted Saga's leadership and judgment. Determined to prioritize their immediate mission, Karaat nodded in agreement. "You're right, Saga. Tesla's plan must be our primary concern. We'll face any other obstacles when the time comes."
Hibiki, who had been observing their exchange, stepped forward, her voice filled with determination. "Then let us waste no more time. We need to find a world where we can train, grow stronger, and be fully prepared to confront Tesla. I will open a portal to that realm."
With a wave of her hand, Hibiki summoned a portal to a world that would serve as their training ground. Through this portal, they would temporarily leave the current world behind, immersing themselves in an environment conducive to honing their skills and strengthening their bond as a team.
United in purpose, Saga, Hibiki, Shem-Ha, and Karaat stepped through the portal. Their sights were set on a world where they could train, harness their abilities, and unlock their true potential. It was in this realm that they would prepare themselves for the ultimate battle against Tesla, carrying with them the hopes of the parallel worlds they were destined to protect.
As Karaat, Shem-Ha, Hibiki, and Saga materialize, their senses immediately pick up the sounds of battle resonating through the air.
Reacting swiftly, the group moves towards the source of the commotion, determined to lend their assistance. Karaat takes on the responsibility of watching over Shem-Ha, ensuring her safety amidst the chaos. With Shem-Ha under his protection, he stands ready to offer his healing abilities if needed.
As Tsubasa and Chris observe the group, they are initially caught off guard by the presence of Hibiki. Mistakenly, they assume she is the same Hibiki they encountered before. Chris' eyes widen, her voice tinged with surprise. "Hibiki? Is that really you? We thought we had lost you."
Tsubasa, on the other hand, pays more attention to Karaat and Saga, her gaze fixated on their magnificent Gold Cloths. Her curiosity is piqued as she can't help but be captivated by their radiant presence.
While Chris continues to express her confusion, Hibiki quickly realizes the misconception and steps forward, ready to clarify the situation. She speaks with a calm and reassuring tone. "I understand the confusion, but I am not the Hibiki you previously encountered. I come from a parallel world, where we share a similar appearance and name. I am here with Karaat, Shem-Ha, and Saga. We are all working together to prevent the threat posed by Nikola Tesla."
Chris' eyes widen with a mix of surprise and curiosity, now fully grasping the situation. "So you are from another world... I apologize for the mistake. It seems fate has intertwined our paths."
Tsubasa, finally tearing her gaze away from the mesmerizing Gold Cloths, directs her attention back to Hibiki. "And who is this small and adorable companion you have with you, Karaat? She seems quite extraordinary."
Karaat smiles warmly, pride evident in his eyes as he looks at Shem-Ha. "Allow me to introduce you to Shem-Ha, the small and mighty goddess of the Earth. She holds great power and has chosen to accompany us in our mission to thwart Nikola Tesla's plans."
Chris's eyes widen with amazement, her fascination piqued. "A goddess? Truly, her presence is remarkable. What role does she play in our fight against Tesla?"
Karaat's voice holds a touch of reverence as he explains. "Shem-Ha possesses unique abilities and knowledge that can aid us in our battle. She represents the Earth itself and has an innate connection to the forces of nature. Her guidance and support will be invaluable as we confront Tesla."
Tsubasa and Chris exchange glances, their curiosity now transformed into a sense of awe. They realize that their alliance not only consists of powerful warriors but also includes a goddess and her guardian, a combination that adds a new dimension to their mission.
Tsubasa's voice is filled with respect as she speaks to Shem-Ha. "We are honored to have you as part of our alliance, Shem-Ha. Your presence will add strength and wisdom to our cause."
Shem-Ha, although small in stature, radiates an air of divine authority. She acknowledges their words with a nod, her eyes shining with determination.
As Tsubasa, Chris, Karaat, and Shem-Ha express their determination to join the cause and protect the parallel worlds, an unexpected turn of events unfolds. Hibiki suddenly collapses, sending shockwaves of concern through the group. Panic grips their hearts as they rush to her side.
As the four companions found themselves aboard the submarine of Kagemori, a solemn atmosphere settled among them. Their minds were burdened with worry for their dear friend, Hibiki.
Tsubasa, known for her unwavering determination, broke the silence. "I can't help but worry about Hibiki. Seeing her like this... it's difficult."
Chris, her voice filled with concern, nodded in agreement. "We need to find a way to support her. We can't let her suffer alone."
As Tsubasa and Chris voiced their worries, Saga interjected with a reassuring tone. "I understand you're worried for her, and it's natural to worry about a dear friend. But we need to be strong for her."
Karaat steps forward, his voice calm and reassuring, as he provides an update on her condition. "Hibiki needs rest. She is simply exhausted from the strain of traversing multiple parallel worlds."
In an effort to comfort Hibiki and provide solace, Shem-Ha lies peacefully beside her, her presence offering a sense of tranquility. As the group gazes upon them, a collective understanding washes over them. They realize that their mission is not just about the battle against Tesla, but also about protecting and supporting each other and they are no stranger when it comes to teamwork.
With this newfound awareness, Tsubasa, Chris, Karaat, and Saga become more united, their resolve deepening. They each silently vow to provide Hibiki with the care she needs, ensuring her well-being as they prepare for the arduous journey ahead. In the silence of the submarine, a sense of unity and determination fills the air, reaffirming their commitment to saving the parallel worlds and emerging victorious against the looming threat of Nikola Tesla.
Saga then finishes his explanation, detailing the nature of Gold Saints and the power of cosmos, Tsubasa and Chris listen intently, their resolve unwavering. "Do you understand what you're getting into?"
With determination gleaming in their eyes, Tsubasa speaks up first. "We are fully committed to this cause. We want to help protect the parallel worlds, and we are willing to learn to use the cosmos to aid in our fight."
Chris nods in agreement, her voice steady. "We understand the urgency. Time may be limited, but we are prepared to undergo the training necessary to harness our own cosmos. We won't let Tesla's attack catch us unprepared."
Karaat, appreciating their dedication, offers them a reassuring smile. "I commend your bravery and commitment. I will do my best to train you within the limited time we have. We will focus on the essentials, enabling you to tap into your inner cosmos and wield it in battle."
With their decision made, the group solidifies their alliance and prepares for the rigorous training ahead. They are aware that every moment counts, as they stand against an unpredictable adversary. Together, they will strive to master their cosmos, harness their newfound powers, and stand as a formidable force against the impending threat of Nikola Tesla.
Saga and Karaat couldn't help but feel a sense of unease and displacement as they navigated the futuristic world of 2045. The constant reminders of their outdated existence weighed heavily on their minds and hearts, creating a subtle but persistent emotional struggle. Each encounter with advanced gadgets and devices served as a poignant reminder of the vast technological advancements that had occurred during their absence.
As Saga observed another sleek, futuristic flying car pass by, he couldn't help but sigh softly, a hint of wistfulness in his voice. "There goes another one," he murmured, his eyes tracking the vehicle's graceful movements. The sight of such advanced technology in action stirred conflicting emotions within him. Saga's words carried a touch of nostalgia for a time when horses and chariots were the preferred modes of transportation.
"Can't stand it," says Karaat.
Meanwhile, under Saga's guidance, Hibiki embarked on an intensive training regimen to develop her cosmos and strengthen her resolve. A profound bond began to form between them, evolving into a meaningful student-teacher relationship.
Saga recognized the importance of not only honing Hibiki's physical abilities, but also nurturing her mental well-being. He understood the toll that the revelations and impending crisis had taken on her, and he became a pillar of support for her emotional struggles. With patience and compassion, he encouraged her to confront her fears and doubts, helping her rebuild her shattered confidence.
During one particularly grueling training session, Hibiki found herself overwhelmed by her own insecurities. Doubts clouded her mind, threatening to hinder her progress. Sensing her turmoil, Saga paused the training and sat down with her, his calm presence a soothing balm for her troubled soul.
In that quiet moment, Saga spoke gently, sharing his own experiences and struggles. He revealed his own battles with self-doubt. "It is normal to feel overwhelmed at times."
With Saga's guidance, Hibiki began to see herself in a new light. She realized that her emotions and vulnerabilities were not weaknesses but sources of inner strength. Through their shared training sessions, Saga helped her harness her emotions, channeling them into her cosmos with control and purpose.
Saga, in turn, felt a profound sense of pride and fulfillment as he witnessed Hibiki's transformation. He saw her blossom from a confused and vulnerable young warrior into a resilient and confident fighter. He knew that he had played a small part in her journey, and it filled him with a sense of purpose and satisfaction.
As the training sessions continued, a lighthearted moment unfolded between Karaat, Tsubasa, and Chris. Karaat, known for his playful nature, decided to inject some humor into the intense training regime. With a twinkle in his eye, he approached Tsubasa and Chris, a mischievous smile on his face.
"Hey, Tsubasa, did it hurt when you fell from heaven? Because you must be an angel," Karaat teased, earning a chuckle from Tsubasa. He then turned to Chris and winked, saying, "And Chris, they say love is like a battlefield, but I'm willing to surrender to you."
"Well, Karaat," Chris responded, her voice filled with amusement, "if love is a battlefield, then I guess we'll have to navigate it together." She leaned in closer, their faces mere inches apart, creating an undeniable spark between them.
Tsubasa, observing the playful exchange, joined in the flirtatious atmosphere, adding her own witty remark. "Karaat, if you're looking for someone to surrender to, you'll have to work a bit harder to win my heart." She winked, playfully challenging him to rise to the occasion.
To his surprise, Tsubasa and Chris responded positively to Karaat's playful advances, their laughter filling the room. They appreciated his good-natured charm and found it to be a welcome break from the intensity of their training. Karaat's jokes and teasing banter lightened the atmosphere, fostering a sense of camaraderie and friendship.
As Chris playfully challenged Karaat to work harder for her heart, he couldn't resist the opportunity to keep the flirtatious exchange going. With a charming smile, he leaned in slightly closer, his eyes sparkling mischievously.
"Well, they say that the sweetest victories are the ones that require some effort," Karaat replied, his voice filled with playful confidence. "Consider my heart on the line, and I'll show you just how persistent I can be."
As Shem-Ha watched Karaat, Tsubasa, and Chris engage in their flirtatious banter, conflicting emotions surged within her. She had grown accustomed to being the one who captured Karaat's attention, and now she found herself feeling a sense of possessiveness creeping in.
Her eyes narrowed slightly as she observed Karaat's playful gestures and the way Tsubasa and Chris responded in kind. A mix of jealousy and insecurity welled up within her, causing a twinge of discomfort in her chest. Shem-Ha couldn't help but question her place in this newfound dynamic.
"Why is he talking to them and not me?" Shem-Ha's inner voice whispered, her heart aching with a mix of envy and yearning. "He should only be talking like that to me. He should only be smiling like that at me."
She found herself analyzing their interactions, searching for any signs of deeper connections forming between Karaat and the other girls. Though she understood that their camaraderie was born out of training and shared experiences, a small voice of doubt whispered in her mind, igniting feelings of vulnerability.
As the training progressed, Saga's mind began to formulate a plan. He realized that time was of the essence, and the urgency to prepare Hibiki, Tsubasa, and Chris for the impending battle against Nikola Tesla grew stronger. Gathering everyone's attention, Saga proposed an idea that could potentially aid their training.
"Listen, my friends," Saga began, his voice filled with determination. "We have seen how much progress we've made in these past few days, but time is a luxury we do not possess. What if we were to search for a dimension where time flows differently? A place where we can immerse ourselves in intense training, honing our cosmos without the constraints of our current timeline."
As the intense training in the time-altered dimension continued, the tranquility of the realm suddenly shattered. The space around them began to distort, as if being torn apart by an unimaginable force. An overwhelming cosmos surged into their midst, heralding the arrival of a powerful presence.
To their astonishment, Shura materialized before them. Saga and Karaat, both seasoned warriors, were taken aback by the sheer magnitude of Shura's cosmos. Saga's gaze met Shura's, recognizing the familiar face, but to Shura, Karaat was an unknown figure.
"Shura," Saga uttered, his voice tinged with a mix of astonishment and curiosity. "What brings you to this realm?"
Shura's piercing gaze shifted between Saga and Karaat, his eyes narrowing in recognition of Saga's presence. "Saga, I recognize you. I do not recognize him though," he says as he points at Karaat.
As the girls observed the space distortion caused by Shura's arrival, their expressions turned to a mixture of awe and concern. The sheer power emanating from Shura was causing the very fabric of the realm to reject his presence. Sensing their unease, Shura reassured them with a calm and collected demeanor.
"The distortion you see is a result of the world's resistance to my presence," Shura explained, his voice steady and authoritative. "I am here only for a limited time before I must return to my own realm."
Hibiki, Tsubasa, and Chris exchanged glances, realizing the significance of Shura's words. As the training group gathered, Karaat seized the opportunity to approach Shura, his curiosity burning within him. He respectfully posed his question, seeking insight into the enigmatic phenomenon that had brought the Gold Saints back to life in their world.
"Shura," Karaat began, his voice filled with genuine intrigue, "do you have any knowledge or understanding as to why the Gold Saints in our world were granted a second chance at life?"
Shura, his gaze fixed upon Karaat, paused for a moment, contemplating the question. The mystery surrounding their resurrection had intrigued even the mighty Gold Saints themselves. With a solemn expression, Shura finally spoke, his voice carrying the weight of ancient knowledge.
"Odin resurrected you, the Gold Saints, to put an end to Loki's schemes," Shura explained, his voice tinged with determination. "Loki sought to exploit the power of the Gold Saints as an energy source for Yggdrasil, the World Tree, and obtain the Gungnir Spear, which holds immense power. With these tools, Loki intended to overthrow Odin and seize control."
Saga and Karaat exchanged astonished glances, struggling to comprehend the gravity of Shura's revelation. The notion of gods and mythical realms intertwining with their own reality was mind-boggling. Before they could voice their confusion, Shura continued, his eyes gleaming with the weight of experience.
"I have faced Loki before, not the one from our world but a variant of him," Shura revealed, his voice laced with a hint of pride. "In that battle, I awakened my ninth sense, transcending the limits of my power. It was during that encounter that Loki boasted about the Gungnir Spear and his grand plans."
"Your what now? Ninth sense?" asked Karaat.
Saga and Karaat were stunned, their minds reeling at the mention of the ninth sense. They had only scratched the surface of their own cosmos training, and now they were confronted with the concept of senses beyond their current comprehension. Their determination to grow stronger burned brighter than ever, fueled by the knowledge that there were realms of power yet to be explored.
"What about a place where the flow of time is different?" asked Hibiki.
"There is a possibility," Shura responded, his eyes focused and determined. "I can guide you to a space-time rift, a place where the flow of time differs from our own. However, I must warn you that entering such a rift is a perilous endeavor. Getting out of it will depend solely on your own strength and resolve."
The group exchanged determined glances, understanding the risks involved. They knew that this opportunity to train in a realm where time moved differently could greatly accelerate their growth. However, leaving Shem-Ha behind became a necessary precaution. Her unique nature as an anomalous being made it uncertain how the time-space rift would affect her.
"You'll be safe here," said Karaat to Shem-Ha.
With a heavy but necessary decision, they left Shem-Ha in the safety of the submarine, ensuring her well-being. Assured that she would be protected, they turned their attention to the imminent journey into the space-time rift. Each member steeled themselves, ready to face the unknown and embrace the challenges that awaited them in this temporal anomaly.
As weeks turned into months within the space-time rift, Hibiki's frustration grew. Despite her relentless efforts and intense training, her cosmos remained elusive, hidden deep within her being. Doubt crept into her mind, questioning whether she would ever awaken her own power.
One fateful day, consumed by a mix of desperation and determination, Hibiki found solace in her singing. Lost in the melodies that resonated within her soul, she poured her heart into her voice, letting it carry her emotions to the farthest reaches of the rift. Unbeknownst to her, the Symphonic Drive of her Elekleid responded to her song, resonating with a newfound intensity.
As the notes reverberated through the space-time rift, a brilliant transformation occurred. Hibiki's Elekleid attire shifted and transformed, manifesting a radiant armor that bore a striking resemblance to the Sagittarius Gold Cloth. The connection between her song and the cosmos was undeniable, as the power of her Symphonic Drive intertwined with her innate potential.
The sight of Hibiki adorned in the armor of the Elekleid, resonating with the essence of the Sagittarius Gold Cloth, left her companions awestruck. Tsubasa and Chris, having already awakened their own cosmos, could sense the immense power emanating from her. The symphony of their combined strength echoed through the space-time rift, creating an unbreakable bond among the trio.
As Hibiki stood in awe of her transformed Elekleid, her mind raced with questions. How was it possible for her Symphonic Drive to resonate with the Sagittarius Gold Cloth? What was the origin of this power that now flowed through her?
Lost in her thoughts, a gentle voice echoed within her mind, interrupting her musings. It was a recording, a fragment of Starlit's voice, emanating from within her Elekleid. "I came across this fragment of the Sagittarius Gold Cloth from a broken world—a world ravaged by a holy war against Zeus. The cataclysm had nearly decimated the Sanctuary and its valiant saints."
Hibiki's determination and unwavering spirit had finally borne fruit. Through her relentless training and the harmonious fusion of her song and cosmos, she achieved what seemed impossible before—a complete awakening of her own cosmos.
However, despite the triumph of awakening her cosmos, Hibiki soon realized that her Symphonic Drive did not align perfectly with her zodiac sign. The manifestation of her awakened power, while resembling the Sagittarius Gold Cloth, posed its own challenges. The bow and arrow, a signature weapon of the Sagittarius constellation, eluded her grasp.
Instead, her awakened cosmos burned out more quickly, akin to the intense consumption experienced by Karaat and Saga when they donned their god clothes. This newfound power came with a price—a shorter duration in which she could sustain her heightened abilities.
As they planned their next move, bonds between our heroes grew stronger and a new development unfolded within the group. Karaat's playful flirtations with Tsubasa and Chris began to blossom into something more profound. The shared experiences and camaraderie forged through their training and battles had opened their hearts to one another.
Love had blossomed, bringing light and warmth to their hearts. Tsubasa and Chris, once reserved about their feelings, now embraced the depth of their emotions. Karaat, in turn, cherished the love and affection they shared. Their love triangle transformed into a powerful trio, fueling their determination and resilience.
After their arduous training within the space-time rift, our heroes returned to Tsubasa and Chris' world. As they emerged from the rift, Shem-ha, who had patiently waited aboard the submarine, greeted them with a gentle smile.
"Only three hours have passed in this world!" exclaimed Shem-Ha.
Relief washed over their weary bodies as they realized they had a moment to rest and recuperate from the strenuous journey they had undertaken. They found solace in the knowledge that time had been kind to them, sparing them from the potential consequences of an extended absence.