We do not own Koihime Musou or Kamen Rider Gaim. They belong to their respective creators. We just thought this idea would be fun and decided to give it a try. If you like it then that's great. If you don't then we tried. Anyway, come along and let's see what you think.
Sangokuden Armored War Gods Saga: Legends of the Armored War Gods
Co-Written By: Ten-Faced Paladin and Kamen Rider Chrome
Chapter 1: The New Girl
Over a year ago, two people had a fateful meeting. One was Kanu Unchou, also known as the Beautiful Black-Haired Bandit Hunter and secretly known as Aisha. The other was Nagata Oda, also known as Armored War God Gaim. Their meeting was a fateful one and she swore herself to him as his retainer as he became her sworn master, the prophesied Messenger of Heaven. In their travels, they met others: Chouhi, Chou'un, Bacho, Komei and finally Kochu. These six young women would become legends. Not only them but the other Armored War Gods which have arrived in the land would change history forever.
This is the story of that legend.
Although much more peaceful than when the fighting first began, Shoku was not as peaceful or as bandit free as some of the rumors coming out of it would lead one to believe. Once again, remnants from previous groupings of bandits, likely survivors of the failed raid on Touka Village, had gathered their courage and were causing trouble again. The Touka Village Army was dispatched to purge a valley of the bandits which had made it into their base, a homemade fort which was well-defended indicating that some of the bandits were former soldiers or mercenaries experienced in such tactics. Caravans carrying valuables and travelers along the path were robbed and everything of value taken away. When the reports reached Touka Village, they were immediately sent out to take care of the problem. A battle soon took place in the valley as the soldiers of the Touka Village Army fought the bandits.
The soldiers weren't alone. Leading them were their generals who fought alongside them. There was Bacho Moki whose unit carried her flag as she rode a majestic warhorse.
"This is the end of the line, bandits!" she declared.
Riding into battle upon the loyal warpig was Chouhi Yokutoku, carrying her unit's flag and her own spear. She dashed at the bandits, knocking them all away with her strength.
"Come on out, bandit boss! I'll beat you up!" she announced proudly.
Realizing they were outmatched, the bandits started to flee. They could handle farmers and commoners playing at soldiers, but everyone knew that Bacho was a powerful martial artist trained by the legendary Bato Jusei who was also her father. Chouhi was also in possession of freakish strength which could outdo men five times her size! They didn't stand a chance!
"Hey, let's go after them!" Chouhi ordered.
"Relax, Rinrin. Remember the plan," Bacho said to her friend.
As the bandits fled, an ambush was waiting for them in the tall grass. With the sound of gongs and flags raised, Kochu instructed her unit of archers to aim at the bandits. With her was Ryugen who had his Budou Ryuhou aimed and ready to fire.
"Bandits, throw down your weapons, or fall prey to my bow!" Kochu threatened.
"That is your only warning," Ryugen added. "So drop your weapons, or else!"
The bandits really began to panic with their newest opponents. Kochu Kansho was a nigh god-like archer who was capable of shooting sparrows and even other arrows out of the sky. Her husband, as unbelievable as it was, could be even more terrifying. He was the Armored War God of the Ultimate Eye who was said to be able to shoot even insects out of the air at one hundred feet! The bandits knew they didn't stand a chance! They'd be shot before they could get a few steps towards or away from the pair!
As the bandits were forced to separate, some thinking they could escape by using their comrades as cover, another unit was waiting for them on a cliff. Led by Chou'un, she ordered her men to drop the logs which rolled down towards the bandits who were in fact herded towards her area in the chaos of the battle. She also followed the path of the rolling logs upon her white horse.
Chou'un was a terror in herself. Her devilish traps and fighting style could outdo anyone on the battlefield. No one wanted to fight her because no matter what she'd pull some kind of trick they'd never see coming. There was a rumor that she was some kind of ero-queen, but more people assumed if someone tried to fight her, she'd beat them up and then take them away to become her slaves of some sort.
The remaining bandits managed to get away. However, gunshots stopped their horses in their tracks. They then saw men standing in their way with two flags. One of the flags had a strange symbol on it, depicting a sword held within a circle. Kanu was on her horse as she revealed herself as Gaim joined her, riding on his own warhorse.
"It's Kanu Unchou and Armored War God Gaim!" the bandit leader shrieked.
"Bandits who prey on the weak! Today your blood will stain my blade!" declared Kanu.
The bandits felt their hopes plummet when they saw the absolute worst opponents they could fight. Kanu Unchou was hailed far and wide as the Beautiful Black-Haired Bandit Hunter who was famous before Touka Village for the sheer number of bandit groups she had busted in her travels. Her skill was not to be denied and no half-trained bandit thug would stand a chance against her. Worse, her partner was the Armored War God of the Ultimate Sword. He had wandered all over country with Kanu and was known as a successful monster slayer who had saved many villages and people from them. The bandits were just human!
"You know," Gaim remarked to the bandits, "I think it's pretty obvious how this is going to end. So make it easier on yourselves and just surrender. Or not. Your choice." He smiled at Kanu and gave her a nod before turning to face the bandits, giving out the command, "GO!" The men obeyed and charged at the bandits with their leaders.
Nagata Oda was once an average teenager who loved Tokusatsu and was a fan of the Kamen Rider series for as long as he could remember. His current favorite was Kamen Rider Gaim and as a fan he bought the merchandise based on the equipment used by the titular Rider. Since that fateful day at the museum, a lot of unexpected things had happened to him, one of which was a Kamen Rider fan's dream. He had also not expected to be spirited away to a version of Ancient China during the era of the Three Kingdoms where the famous historical figures were women. He had also not expected for Kanu Unchou to pledge herself to him as a retainer. He also had not expected that the toy SengokuDriver and Lockseeds he had in his possession to become functional and real. When he activated them, he had become Kamen Rider Gaim and had started to carve a legend for himself. It was he who had coined the title Armored War God while technically being the Messenger of Heaven. As a result, the title became widely known.
He also discovered he wasn't the only one brought over to this world. There were others, like him, in possession of their own SengokuDrivers and who had taken on the title of Armored War God.
In Gi there was Mitsuki Akechi, also known as Kamen Rider Baron and the Armored War God of the Ultimate Spear. He served under Sousou as her personal enforcer.
In Go there was Masataka Miyamoto, also known as Kamen Rider Zangetsu and the Armored War God of the Ultimate Shield. He served the Son family. He was also helping them by distributing Lockseeds in the province. Nagata wasn't sure if that was a good idea but Miyamoto looked like he knew what he was doing.
In To there were Takada Hideyoshi and Ushio Kenshin, also known as Kamen Rider Gridon and Kamen Rider Kurokage respectively. Their titles as Armored War Gods were the Ultimate Hammer and the Ultimate Cutter. The two of them served under Totaku who was if anything the exact opposite of what history painted her as.
In Kei there was Haru Hattori, also known as Kamen Rider Knuckle and the Armored War God of the Ultimate Fist. He served under Ensho. The arrogant noble definitely enjoyed bragging about having her own Armored War God. She probably considered him as a status symbol.
Finally, there was Iori Tokugawa, also known as Kamen Rider Ryugen and Armored War God of the Ultimate Eye. He was part of the Shoku Faction, serving as one of the top generals of the Touka Village Volunteer Army alongside Gaim and the Tiger Generals. He was also happily married to Kochu Kansho, one of the Five Tiger Generals.
While they came from an entirely different world, they have decided that the power they possessed could be used for the betterment of this world. Military leaders, advisors, and strategists. The Armored War Gods had taken on different roles in these turbulent times.
After an incredible victory with the bandit threat purged, the generals and strategist of the Touka Village Army sat together for a meal to celebrate. Once again there was a feast and Chouhi didn't hold back as she scarfed all the food within reach. Nagata smiled. After such a victory, they deserved a reward.
The chief praised each of them; the generals for their strength in battle and Komei for creating the strategies which allowed them to be victorious. However, the highest praise went to Nagata. He may seem like a regular young man but he was an Armored War God, one of the Messengers of Heaven and a symbol of hope for Touka Village. As Ryuubi had pretty much abandoned Touka Village, Nagata had been elected as the leader of the Touka Village Army. The five women and Ryugen were his co-generals while Komei was his strategist. Because the group had been practically leading the army anyway, barely anyone felt Ryuubi's absence. After hearing how he had been purposefully trying to incite chaos to make himself into a hero, no one really cared where he went.
"Komei-dono, for such a young girl, you definitely have the wisdom of a great strategist," the chief praised, causing the blonde to blush.
"It was nothing, really," Komei replied shyly.
"Hey, Shuri, don't be shy," Nagata advised. "Because of the tactics you composed for us, we managed to win another day."
"Gaim-sama is right. You should accept praise proudly," agreed Kanu. "Our army's victories are all because of your strategies."
"Thank you," Komei blushed.
"But I'm a bit unhappy that Aisha and Gaim-sama took the best part at the end," remarked Chou'un.
"Can't help it, Sei," replied Nagata. The bandits had given up at the sight of the Ultimate Sword and the Black Haired Bandit Hunter.
"It was all part of the plan," added Kanu, smiling at Nagata. Her hand brushed against his and he smiled back.
"Kanu-dono, Bacho-dono, Chou'un-dono and Kochu-dono are all great warriors and the pride of the Touka Village Army," the chief continued to praise, "And we cannot forget Ryugen-sama and Gaim-sama who have blessed this village with their presence." Having one Armored War God was a huge deal so the presence of two Armored War Gods in Touka Village's army really put them on the map. People were actually making small shrines of worship and thanks to the two of them.
"Chief, you really give us too much credit," replied Iori modestly.
"No, he's right," Riri shook her head. "Daddy and Mommy are both strong." Iori smiled and patted his stepdaughter's head lovingly.
"Thanks, sweetie," he smiled.
"Hey, what about me?" Chouhi demanded.
"Ah, yes, Chouhi-dono who races into the battle-field upon her war-pig is such an awe-inspiring indeed. The men have also dubbed her 'The Mighty Pig General," the chief told her and she smiled proudly at that. Komei tried not to giggle.
"Well, I'm full," Nagata patted his stomach. "Anyway, I've got some work to do." He left the table.
"I have business to take care of as well," added Kanu as she left the table too.
"More food for me!" Chouhi reached for a dumpling at the same time as Bacho. Soon, the two friends fought over it before being scolded by Komei for bad manners. As Kanu and Nagata left, Iori's eyes opened slightly as he smiled. While this era may not have all the modern conveniences of their own world, he and Nagata had managed to find something that their old world had lacked.
Ever since that day when they shared their first kiss, Nagata and Kanu had started to grow closer and closer. Not only that, the chief of Touka Village had allowed them all to use his home as their own. The group agreed to stay and defend Touka Village. The villagers all loved them and called them heroes. Why not? Because if it weren't for them then Touka Village would've fallen from the biggest bandit raid it had ever experienced. Nagata was even made the leader of the Touka Village Army. His friends all urged him to accept, believing him more than qualified to take on the role. Once his election had been announced to the villagers, they all celebrated as they had Armored War God Gaim to defend their humble village.
Of course, with everyone working to make the Touka Village Army stronger and training themselves, that left them with very little free time. Whenever they did have free time, though, Kanu and Nagata would slip away to be alone.
That was easier said than done with so many housemates they could run into.
They had kept their fledgling romance a secret from the others. They did not want them to make big deal out of it or tease them about it. They were inexperienced and were just getting started. The kiss just proved that they loved each other and Kanu had started to call Nagata by his real name. She had to be careful, though. If she blurted out his true name then everyone would suspect that they had grown intimately close.
At the moment…
*Chu! Chu! Chu! Chuuuuuuu!*
Kanu and Nagata had stolen away for some time alone, hiding in the records room sharing kisses as they remained hidden. Nagata had her gently pinned against the wall as they kissed, enjoying the dim lighting and intimacy. Kanu enjoyed the sensation of being encompassed in the arms of her lover. It was a warm and safe place to be as far as she was concerned. Such moments made Kanu feel very feminine and attractive, a sensation she was quickly coming to enjoy whenever Nagata so much as looked at her.
The two lovers came up for air, panting softly as they rested their foreheads together, just peering into each others' eyes.
"Are we getting better at this?" he joked.
"With all the practice we have gotten, improvement is the only result," she replied.
"Well, then let's practice some more," he grinned. He leaned in to take her lips when all of a sudden they heard someone trying to open the door.
"Why is this door locked?" It was Komei's voice. "Now where is that key? Ah, here it is." The door unlocked and both Nagata and Kanu's eyes went wide as the door opened. "Now then...huh?" Komei spotted Kanu and Nagata, looking rather flustered and pointedly not looking at one another with their hands behind their backs. "What are you both doing in here?"
"Uh...I was just looking for the reports from the last bandit busting we did," Nagata answered.
"And I was helping him," Kanu added.
"But why was the door locked?" Komei asked.
"We...um...accidentally locked ourselves in," Nagata replied weakly. He realized how weak of an excuse that was. Fortunately, Kanu had an idea.
"Excuse me! I need to do some training with Rinrin!" Kanu dashed out of the room.
"And I think I may have misplaced those reports back in my room!" Nagata also exited.
Komei was left confused, "Huh?"
Nagata was walking back to his office with a sigh. Komei had nearly caught him and Kanu in the act. With how everyone lived in the castle, it was expected to happen now and then. One of their friends would catch them alone together and they would have to come up with an excuse to hide what they were actually doing. However, they were starting to run out of excuses. At some point their friends were going to find out. Until then, Kanu and Nagata were going to hide their news relationships. They weren't ashamed of it, but they wanted to avoid the circus it would bring since they both agreed their private lives should remain private.
So deep in thought, Nagata hadn't noticed Chou'un and accidentally bumped into her.
"Oops, sorry, Sei," he apologized to her.
"Quite alright," the bluenette nodded. They both were about to go their different ways when Chou'un suddenly stopped Nagata, "Hold on." She picked something off his shoulder. It was a long strand of black hair. "Where did this come from? It's too long to be yours and nobody else in the village has hair this deep shade of black except..." She gave him a look and a sly grin before leaving him in the middle of the hallway. Nagata felt dread creeping up when he saw the look on Chou'un's face. Should he stop her? He wasn't sure.
"Sei, wait," Nagata called and she stopped before looking over her shoulder at him.
"Yes, Gaim-sama?" she asked, an eyebrow raised in amusement.
Words failed him and he sighed in defeat, "Never mind."
"I'll be on my way then," Chou'un smiled before she walked away, but no doubt she was going to gossip to somebody. Nagata knew somehow, someway, Chou'un would let that information slip at the most embarrassing moment for himself and Kanu.
A storyteller was wowing the young children of the village with tales of the Armored War Gods as Nagata was walking through. The people were in a jovial mood, the oppression from all the bandit raids being gone for quite some time. Merchants could travel safely and smaller villages didn't have to worry about being raided and losing everything at random times. They also knew who to thank for it. It had gotten to the point that when the villagers saw him, they bowed in respect.
"Good afternoon, Gaim-sama."
"How are you doing, Gaim-sama?"
"Having a good day, Gaim-sama?"
Nagata responded in kind, waving. He had never been this popular before. Back home he was kind of average and could be lost in a crowd. Then again, these people owed him their lives. Right now he was going to go for some tea to soothe his nerves. As he entered the local tea house, the owner greeted him and led him to his usual table.
"Your usual, Gaim-sama?" the tea house owner asked.
"Yes," nodded Nagata as he got settled into his seat. Looking around, at all the people leisurely lounging in the tea house, just relaxing, it made Nagata smile. This peace was something worth fighting for. However, he was worried about his own life. He had become so attached to this place. No longer was he worried if he could ever go back to his own world or not. He had pretty much accepted that there was no way home.
Actually, there was one chance. That thief which had caused him and others to be sent to this place. While travelling with Kanu he had asked around for anyone fitting that description but came up with no clues. No one had ever seen such a young man who stood out like that. Over time, Nagata just asked less and less, getting more used to where he was. He'd still keep an eye out for the kid, since Nagata strongly suspected he was connected to the RinJyuKen Akugata appearing as well.
But one day at a time. He was busy with his own affairs.
To try and get out of her embarrassment, Kanu went straight to Chouhi who was training and offered to spar. The excitable redhead eagerly agreed, but Kanu ended up losing. She just couldn't focus for some reason. Chouhi thankfully didn't notice and cheered and Kanu let her little sister bask in her win. Right now she felt like having a bath. A good long bath always helped her to get her mind back on focus. Well, her mind perhaps but her heart was a different matter altogether.
As she walked past the courtyard, she saw Kochu training the men in archery with Iori. While the Armored War God of the Ultimate Eye had incredibly accuracy, he still needed to keep his skills sharp. He admitted to practicing archery and the skill he had sharpened was so great that he could hit a bullseye from a long distance. His own projectile weapon was a deadly tool in his hands as he never missed a shot. Nearby was Riri who watched them with a smile.
For a moment, the image of the family was replaced by her, Nagata and a little one of their own. A little girl with her mother's hair, but her father's eyes. The thought made Kanu blush a bit. Why were her thoughts wandering like that?
As the men continued their practice, Kochu saw Kanu observing them. However, the elder woman could tell that something was weighing on Kanu's mind. Her eyes gave her away, staring out like she was seeing something in the distance instead of right on front of her. Nodding to her husband, alerting him that she was leaving the training to him, she walked over to the younger woman and leaned in closer to her. Again, Kanu's mind was not present as she continued to stare.
"You seemed trouble, Aisha-san," Kochu observed. After a moment, she blinked as if surprised before a glowing smile came to her lips. "Ah, I see...you're in love."
"H-HUH?!" Kanu gasped, turning beet red as the words registered in her mind. "SH-SH-SHION! I-I-I-I d-don't know what you're speaking about and-!"
"You can't hide it from me!" Kochu giggled. Grasping Kanu's hands, she began pulling the girl towards the castle. "Let's go someplace a little more private so we can gossip, ne?"
To clear his head, Nagata decided to take a ride outside Touka guards stationed at the gate greeted him, inquiring him of where he was going. He told them he just needed some fresh air and they wished him well. Maybe some alone time away from Touka Village could help him organize his thoughts a little better. He took out his Sakura Hurricane Lockseed and unlocked it before tossing it into the air. It grew, unfolded, and landed in front of him to allow him to get on. Putting on a helmet, he revved the engine and took off.
Kochu and Kanu were seated together in one of the gazebos in the courtyard to talk. The older woman was quite insistent and the Bandit Hunter found herself in a helpless position, unable to come up with a good excuse to escape from her friend's curiosity.
"So, Aisha-san, which man has won your heart?" asked Kochu.
Kanu was unable to answer but her blush intensified instead, "...I...I do not know what you mean..."
"It is quite obvious to me," Kochu replied logically. "The way you looked at me, Airen and Riri, it was like you wished to have the same kind of life."
"Ulp!" Kanu gulped, turning bright red again. Curse her active imagination! She sputtered, trying to say something, anything which would dispel Kochu's insinuations and questioning but she couldn't think of anything. All she could think of was how mortified she was at the moment with being asked such personal questions!
"Is it Gaim-dono?" Kochu pressed, tapping her chin in false consideration. It was all so obvious to her.
"Ah!" Kanu gasped, turning redder than before if that was possible.
Kochu beamed, clapping her hands together as she had gotten her answer, "I was right! It is quite obvious! The two of you have been spending a lot of time together."
"Well..." Kanu's eyes darted in any direction except for Kochu, "I am his most trusted retainer and general..."
"But you were not together as master and retainer. You were spending time as a man and a woman," Kochu interrupted. "Please, do not worry. I will not tell anyone." Kanu wasn't sure how to respond, except for the truth.
"...Yes," Kanu whispered.
"So, when was it that you realized he had stolen your heart?' Kochu asked.
"I…" Kanu poked her fingers together. She just felt so reluctant about this! She wasn't sure if she should tell anyone! However, a swift thought came to her mind. Perhaps she could turn the tables. "Perhaps you could tell me when you realized you fell in love with Ryugen-sama I may be more inclined to share my personal romantic business."
"Do you wish for romantic advice? Or maybe some tips on how to seduce him?" Kochu smiled.
"Just...if I am to share my story, I wish to hear yours," Kanu blushed. "How did you know you fell in love with Ryugen-sama? You did marry him only a few months after meeting him."
"Well, to be honest, I fell in love with him when he proved to be the man I wanted to spend the rest of my life with and raise Riri together," Kochu confessed. "Riri simply adored him, he was kind, patient, and if I have to say quite handy around the house. Before he came I couldn't get all my chores done in the day since I had Riri to care for and duties in the village. It also helped that he didn't consider me only as breasts that speak like so many other men I met have done."
"I know the feeling," Kanu nodded, having met her share of men usually bandits who did the same thing.
"And then all the other housewives couldn't stop talking about what a good husband he'd be for their daughters," Kochu continued, thinking back to her pre-marriage days. "Plenty of the younger girls were trying to get his attention. I used to feel so jealous when they would. Although back then I convinced myself it was because I was afraid I'd lose my new friend just after getting to know him."
"So you denied having feelings for him?" asked Kanu. She felt deja vu at the words, herself having done the same thing.
"Oh yes," Kochu smiled. "After all, I was a widow with a child. What young man would find me as a romantic interest? I certainly thought a younger man wouldn't be interested in the kind of relationship I wished to pursue."
"But then you still got married," Kanu reminded.
"Yes, I took a leap of faith," Kochu smiled as she recalled the day she had brought up the courage to confess and propose to Iori. It had been helped by hearing one of the local housewives bragging that her daughter was in the midst of plotting to snag Iori by going through the most blatant seduction ever, something no man could resist. The thought of losing Iori made her heart ache and she knew she couldn't dance around the idea and say it was a whim. She wanted Iori, "And I'm glad I confessed to him. Although, I had a feeling he may have confessed to me too but was too shy." She giggled as she put her hands against her cheeks, wiggling in her seat. "And I still remember our first night together. He was so gentle..." Kochu started to moan.
"Uh…" Kanu blanched. That was...a little...too much information. She just continued to watch as Kochu reminisced.
"Ooh...Airen...that's right...touch me there~"
As Nagata stopped atop a hill, he took a moment to admire the nature around him. It was rare to see all this in Tokyo, with a few exceptions like the park and botanical gardens. What he saw was a land still unmarred by modern development and the air was still fresh. No honking cars, no noisy television ads, no cranky pedestrians yelling at each other, and no stench of car exhaust. It was peaceful...
"HELP ME!"
Nagata's head whipped around towards the direction of the scream. Thoughts of peace and quiet were forgotten as he slipped into him battle mindset once again. It sounded like some girl was in trouble. He quickly slapped on his SengokuDriver and rode towards the direction of the scream.
A girl in peasant clothes with long pink hair done up in ponytails on the side with feathered ornaments was backed up against a tree. "Please! I don't have anything of value! Leave me alone!" She had heard about running into bandits but these men were too weird to be bandits! First of all they were all pale like corpses and were dressed the same as well. They also hopped as they chased after her before cornering her like this. The creatures did not speak as they drew their arms back for knife thrusts which the girl knew could cut through trees after seeing it during the chase, eliciting a scream of fear from her.
"NOOOOOOOOOOOO!"
The Rinshi harassing the girl had not seen it coming as they were knocked away by Gaim and his Sakura Hurricane. Dismounting, he turned his bike back into Lockseed form. He faced the recovering Rinshi and spoke, "Attacking people on the road in broad daylight? Kinda seems desperate for you guys."
The rose-haired girl gazed up at Gaim and her vision soon saw him with sparkles on his orange armor. He just seemed so majestic. He then turned his gaze to her before offering his hand to her. She took his hand as he helped her up to her feet.
She was speechless as she gazed into his orange visor. The Rinshi got back up and surrounded them, hoping to use their numbers against his skill. "Stay behind me," he instructed. He stood in front of the girl, his Daidaimaru sword brandished as the Rinshi attacked. He could fight them off but he needed to finish this quickly and so he hit his belt's Cutting Blade to activate the finisher function.
[SOIYA! ORANGE SQUASH!]
An orange wave was released by the Daidaimaru as he swung it, obliterating the Rinshi in one blow. He then sighed and turned back to the girl who was speechless as she was awed by him.
"Hey, are you OK?" he asked worriedly. She hadn't said a thing and he was concerned. Was she in some kind of shock? Not many people expected to be assaulted by jiang-shi in broad daylight.
"YOU'RE REAL!" she exclaimed and he jumped back in shock. She started to examine him from all angles, even poking his helmet. "YOU'RE REALLY REAL!" Yeah, the thing about being a Kamen Rider, not many people believed you existed until they saw you.
"Uh…" Gaim blinked. Well...this was new. "Ano...could you stop?"
"Oh!" she gasped and stepped back in embarrassment. "I'm sorry! It's just I've heard so much of the Armored War Gods! I didn't think I would actually meet one!"
"Well, we are pretty legendary," he admitted, rubbing the back of his head in embarrassment.
"Oh, and thank you for saving me!" She bowed.
"Yeah, well, you should be careful. You shouldn't be travelling alone unless you can fight. Where are you headed? Maybe I can give you a ride," he offered.
"Oh, I'm headed to Touka Village," she told him. "Do you know where that is?"
"I was just about to head back." He summoned the Sakura Hurricane and it was ready to go. He mounted it and instructed her, "Hop on."
"Oh, is that one of the Armored War Horses?" she asked as she went to admire it in awe. "Amazing! And wheels instead of legs! How does it move?"
"How about we talk about it after we get to Touka Village?" he asked.
"Alright!" the girl hopped on the back and wrapped her arms tight around his waist.
"Oh, and don't forget the helmet."
If anything, his giving the girl a helmet made her glow with pleasure as she took it. After slipping it on, she went right back to hugging him like a stuffed toy. Hitting the ignition made her squeak in shock, but she got over it. That issue out of the way, Gaim set off towards Touka Village. However, he found his thoughts turning to the incident. The Rinshi looked like they were targeting her specifically since foot traffic had been somewhat regular outside the village that day. No one else reporting even seeing a hint of the Rinshi. Why were they after the girl he saved?
Kanu was still mulling over the issue regarding her and Nagata's relationship. Kochu's advice helped a little, telling her that there was no shame in loving someone but she couldn't help but feel conflicted as to how the others would react to the news. Would they support them? Be jealous? Not care? Or say for the sake of the Touka Village Army that it could not happen? As she reached the village's gate, she heard a familiar sound and spotted the Sakura Hurricane approaching. She smiled as she saw him but the smile fell as she saw that he had a passenger that was hugging him rather intimately.
As Gaim stopped his bike and helped the girl off, he changed his bike back into Lockseed form. Seeing Kanu, he greeted her, "Yo, Aisha!"
"Gaim-sama," Kanu greeted curtly. Now the girl was hugging Gaim's right arm with a blissful smile on her face. "Who is this girl?"
"Oh, her? I rescued her from some Rinshi while I was out for a ride," he answered.
"Rinshi?" Kanu was surprised. They hadn't gotten any word of any activity from the RinJyuKen in a while now. Not since the self-proclaimed Chompa-Chomp Brothers rallied the bandits to try and take the village. "What were they doing way out there?"
"I don't know but they were after her for some reason," he answered. He addressed the rosette, "By the way, I never got your name." The girl let go of Gaim and smiled as she bowed.
"Armored War God-sama, if you must know, my name is Ryuubi followed by Gentoku," she told them before bowing. "Nice to meet you."
Kanu and Gaim's jaws dropped when they heard her call herself by that name.
"Ryuubi...?"
"...Gentoku...?"
"Hai," she smiled.
Gaim reached down and closed his Lockseed, causing his armor to dissolve into light. Ryuubi gasped as the Armored War God changed before her eyes.
"Aisha, I think we need to call the others for an emergency meeting," he told her.
"Oh my gosh! How did you do that?" Ryuubi yelled as she looked at Nagata in awe. It was easy to tell she was in awe since her eyes seemed to have grown to a cartoonish degree and had become filled with sparkles as she looked up to Nagata. "Your armor just vanished into thin air! Is it magic?"
"She seems quite taken with you," Kanu deadpanned.
"So this is what having a hardcore fangirl is like," muttered Nagata. Having laughed at the idol-of-the-day back home whenever a fangirl would go overboard and try to hug/molest him only for security to drag her away. It suddenly didn't seem to be so funny anymore. In fact, it started to creep him out in hindsight. Weird.
Chou'un, Chouhi, Bacho, Komei, Iori, and Kochu had been called to meet with Ryuubi. However, the master marksmen of their group had yet to show up. Apparently, Iori and Kochu had gone out with the men to do some hunting in the forest near Touka Village while Riri took a nap under the care of one of the castle's servants. It would be awhile before they returned.
"I see..." Nagata nodded after hearing Ryuubi's explanation, telling the group that the man who had been called Ryuubi Gentoku had in fact been an imposter. "So that guy who called himself Ryuubi was a fake."
"Yes," Ryuubi, the real Ryuubi, nodded. "My mother and I make our living by selling bamboo mats. I was returning home from one such trip to the markets and stopped at a teahouse. I met that man there and we just began talking. He was admiring my sword and I told him about its history any my relation to a prince. He seemed awfully interested in it. Then when I left, he stopped me on the road and…"
"Stole your sword?" offered Komei.
"He stole my sword and then kicked me off the cliff," Ryuubi answered. "Fortunately, I got caught on a tree branch and survived."
"That's some luck," Chou'un commented.
"When my mother learnt I lost such a precious family heirloom, she threw me in the lake. Since then, every time she remembered what I did, she would throw me in the lake."
"Sheesh," Nagata grimaced. Nevermind her daughter almost died in the incident, the woman seemed more upset by the loss of the sword than the near loss of her own child. The priorities some people had were just way too screwed up sometimes. "Overboard much?"
"I can understand how upset she must've been. It was probably why she always got angry with me," admitted Ryuubi. She was getting a little tired of being thrown into the lake at random moments, but the sword had been precious. It was the last relic of the former glory days that her family had. It was a symbol of their bloodline more valuable than money. Of course her mother would be angry about her losing it.
"So, that's why you're here?" Bacho asked.
"Yes," Ryuubi nodded. "When I learnt that a man with my name had stationed himself in Touka Village, I knew that I had to come here to reclaim my sword."
"You're kind of late for that," Kanu replied. "The last time we saw that imposter he was running for the hills. I think your sword was with him too."
"Really?" Ryuubi flinched. She all but wilted in her seat before she started to sob. "What am I supposed to do now? I thought I was so close. I've travelled so far and run out of money. What else can go wrong now?"
It was a tender moment, and everyone was wondering what they could say to make the girl feel better. The matter was quickly taken out of their hands though. Suddenly, Ryugen and Kochu had barged into the common room, both with their weapons pointed at Ryuubi. From the looks on their faces, neither of them were pleased by their new arrival.
"Ryuubi, you bastard! There's no more running for you!" Ryugen threatened.
"Ryuubi, prepare to die!" Kochu yelled.
The angry couple had their weapons aimed right at Ryuubi who let out a squeak of fear. She actually ducked behind Nagata in fear.
"Wait! Wait!" Komei yelled in panic. She knew how angry the couple must be to hear the name Ryuubi Gentoku, but she had to calm them down before they took out their ire on the wrong person. "This isn't Ryuubi Gentoku! I mean she is! But it's not the same man who had Riri-chan kidnapped!"
Ryuubi poked her head out from her hiding place and waved, "H-Hello."
It took several retellings of the story, confirmations from the friends who all heard the same story and Nagata vouching over and over again that the girl was innocent, but Kocho and Ryugen finally believed it. Once they got the full story, the couple calmed down. Iori cancelled his own transformation. That had the same effect when Ryuubi had seen Nagata's armor disappear. However, she didn't go near him. He had threatened to kill her after all.
"I'm so sorry," Kochu apologized. "When I was told that evil man was here, I thought this was my chance to get my revenge."
"Same here," Iori agreed. They had been in the middle of hunting for wild boar when the messenger found them. Both Iori and Kochu rushed back to Touka Village immediately. They feared he was trying to retake the army or simply wanting revenge and they had left Riri alone. The man had already proven that he wasn't afraid to risk children if it meant getting something that he wanted. Iori apologized, "Sorry for scaring you, Ryuubi-san."
"It's...it's alright," Ryuubi was still shaken. The lady archer was scary enough, but it was terrifying to have an Armored War God angry and pointing their weapon at her face.
"But there is no way I will ever forgive that horrible man. If I ever see him again, I will tear off his ears, slice off his nose and smash in his eyes." As Kochu began to describe the horrific things she had planned for the fake Ryuubi, a dark aura surrounded her as her visage turned clearly demonic. "Then I'll take my time in ripping off his fingernails, one by one! Then I will make cuts all the way down one side of his body and steam him! Then boil his bones in oil!"
Nagata gulped, the image Kochu creating terrifying him down to the core. As the enraged mother continued to detail what she would do to the false Ryuubi, Nagata looked to Iori, silently pleading for help. The squinty-eyed young man slightly nodded before he got up from his seat. Coming around behind the ranting Kochu he wrapped his arms around her from behind and began whispering in her ear.
"Koi, calm down. That man isn't here. You're scaring everyone," he whispered soothingly.
"Ah!" Kochu stopped her rant, the demonic image vanishing from her face. Instead she blushed demurely as she obviously relished being in her husband's arms. "Oh...forgive me, Airen. You know how I do that when something upsets me."
"I know and if we ever do find that horrible man then I will assist in his torture. I have my own ideas as well." He was thinking of tying the fake Ryuubi's arms to a pair of trees and his legs to his bike. Then, he'd start the bike and stretch the fake Ryuubi's body until it snapped right in half. He started chuckling evilly.
"You both are definitely made for each other," quipped Chou'un.
"Why thank you," Kochu beamed in delight. She apologized to Ryuubi, "I'm so sorry about your sword. If I had known I would've chased after him to get it back."
"Me too," nodded Iori.
"The same," added Nagata apologetically.
"It's alright. I guess I just need to resume my journey," Ryuubi stood up. "Thank you for your hospitality but I must be going now."
"It's getting late Ryuubi-san and soon it'll be dark. Maybe you should stay the night before you resume your journey," Nagata offered. He really didn't feel all that right about disappointing the poor girl and then just kicking her butt out the door. Also, the RinJyuKen had an interest in her which now was obvious as to why. Keeping an eye on her would be supremely important.
Ryuubi gasped, "Really?"
"And you're probably tired and hungry too. You can join us for dinner," he added.
"Thank you, Armored War God-sama!" She bowed only to hit her forehead against the tabletop. "Itai!"
Kanu and Nagata fretted over Ryuubi, the poor girl having struck her head so hard she almost knocked herself out cold. As they did so, Komei began to ponder as she remembered some rumors that she had heard during an errand into town. If she remembered right, it had been about somebody finding some kind of ornate sword… "That sword..."
"What is it, Shuri?" Chouhi asked.
"Actually," Komei spoke up, "When I was at the bookstore earlier, I heard a rumor. Apparently Kosonsan found an amazing sword after she raided a bandit base in her territory. Maybe that's it."
"Possible, I suppose," Iori nodded. The Fake Ryuubi liked to give himself airs and dress like he was some nobleman. Bandits would flock to him like flies to honey thinking he would have lots of valuables on him. Since he was forced to travel alone after his deceit was revealed, he would have been a prime target for highwaymen and bandits. It was plausible that he lost the sword for Kosonsan to discover in a raid.
"Kosonsan...Kosonsan..." Where had Ryuubi heard that name before? It was on the tip of her tongue...
"That name sounds familiar," Chouhi wondered,
"Indeed, but I can't remember where I heard it," agreed Chou'un.
"Sei, that's not nice," Kanu chided as she knew Chou'un was only kidding.
"Seriously, you can't remember Kosonsan?" asked Nagata. Even if she didn't have a remarkably memorable presence, she was still worth remembering.
"Ah, Hakukei-chan!" Ryuubi exclaimed. "We should go and see her!"
"Tomorrow," Nagata stated. "It's late."
"Thank you," Ryuubi beamed.
Afterwards, Ryuubi had dinner with the group and had a nice hot bath.
"They're all so nice. Kanu-san, Chou'un-san, Kochu-san, Chouhi-chan, Komei-chan, Ryugen-sama and..." Ryuubi blushed as she uttered the name of the Armored War God who had come to her rescued her, "Gaim-sama..."
After her bath, Ryuubi was given a set of sleeping clothes and a room. Taking her to the room was Kanu.
"Kanu-san, thank you for doing all this for me. I know it's a bother but still I would like to thank you," said Ryuubi in appreciation.
"It's alright, Ryuubi-dono," Kanu waved it off.
"No, if Gaim-sama hadn't saved me then I don't know what would've happened," said Ryuubi.
"That is just the way Gaim-sama is," Kanu replied.
"Honestly, he's not exactly what I expect an Armored War God would be like," Ryuubi admitted. She had heard the tales of the Armored War Gods. They were said to be great warriors, able to defeat entire armies singlehandedly. They possessed great and frightening power. Meeting Nagata, he just seemed so...human.
"None of the Armored War Gods we have met are like what we expected," agreed Kanu. She thought back to the ones they had met. They were unique, like Baron who would occasionally tease Sousou despite his supposed loyalty to her. "As for Gaim-sama, he is kind."
"Could you tell me more about him?" Ryuubi asked.
"Tomorrow," Kanu said. "Tonight, you just rest."
"Thank you for letting me stay the night."
"No need to thank us. You are our guest."
Nagata could hardly believe his eyes. Touka Village was in ruins. It was burning and he saw dead bodies sprawled everywhere. He called out to his friends but then froze in horror as he came upon their bodies, with blood pooling around them. Even Riri was among them, lying between her parents. He stepped back, unable to look away from the horrific sight. Then, his eyes gazed up as a figure walked towards him. His eyes widened as his pupils shrunk to pin pricks.
Walking towards him was Gaim with his armor completely stained in blood.
Nagata screamed, waking up quite suddenly. He was pale and his body was soaked in a layer of cold sweat. Suddenly, his door was thrown open.
"Nagata-sama!" Kanu cried as she entered his room. She had heard him scream. "Is something wrong?" She went to his bedside and all of a sudden he wrapped his arms around her and buried his face into her chest. "Nagata-sama?" He was breathing heavily, his heart pounding in his chest. "Nagata-sama, what's wrong?"
"Blood...everywhere...everyone dead...Bujin Gaim..." he uttered in terror.
"Bujin...Gaim?" Kanu whispered, confused. What was he talking about? No, that wasn't important right now. Her sworn master and beloved was terrified of something and needed someone to be with him. He needed her. As Kanu Unchou continued to hold the Armored War God in her arms, she comforted him. She would stay with him until he calmed down and returned to sleep.
She had questions but she doubt she would get answers from Nagata. He probably wouldn't want to be reminded of whatever nightmare he had. So, she would go towards the other Armored War God. He probably had answers. In the meantime, she gently stroked Nagata's hair to assure him that he was alright and he was safe.
The next morning, Kanu found Iori out doing some early-morning archery training. He was keeping his skills sharp. She had been looking for him after breakfast. Out of anyone who could give her a clue as to what scared Nagata so much during the night, it would have been a fellow Armored War God.
"Good morning, Ryugen-sama," she greeted him.
"Oh, good morning, Kanu-san," Iori greeted. "Doing some early morning training?"
"I wish," she sighed. "There is something I wish to inquire you about."
"What is it?" Kanu asked.
"Last night, I heard Gaim-sama scream. When I went to check he appeared absolutely terrified. He had a nightmare and I heard him mention something about 'Bujin Gaim'. I was wondering if you knew what he meant," Kanu said.
"Did he really say Bujin Gaim?" Iori asked, halting his training entirely.
"Does it mean something?"
"Yes, it does. Nagata's armor isn't exactly one of a kind. There had been another who held the name of Gaim. He was known as Bujin Gaim. However, unlike Nagata, he was completely ruthless. He was a bloodthirsty warrior who killed other Armored War Gods for the sake of proving his might. He even gave himself the title of Strongest Armored War God. In the end, the remaining Armored War Gods, seeing him as a major threat, banded together and defeated him."
"So why is Gaim-sama having nightmares about this Bujin Gaim?" asked Kanu.
"Perhaps he fears of Bujin Gaim's return...or that he may become the new Bujin Gaim himself," Iori speculated. Since their Drivers had become real, the threat of evil Riders like Bujin Gaim and Fifteen were in fact quite real. Of course that opened Iori's mind to other possibilities like that Blood Lotus that Bujin Gaim fused with in the movie in his bid to try and destroy his enemies and conquer everything.
"Gaim-sama would never become like that!" Kanu protested sharply.
"Perhaps, but there is an old saying that absolute power can corrupt absolutely," Iori warned her. "However, you are right. Our Gaim is nothing like Bujin Gaim. Bujin Gaim forgot what it truly means to be an Armored War God for the sake of his glory and gluttony. It is why we are all here, to reconnect with humanity."
Magician of words, thy name is Iori Tokugawa.
Once everyone had gotten ready for the day, Ryuubi declared that she had to get going and wanted to say goodbye to everyone. They met her at the gate to say their farewells, but it was with some reluctance. Nagata urged her to let the group come along with her for safety. As she had been targeted by the RinJyuKen, that meant her life was in danger. Also, there were the roaming bandits who wouldn't mind taking advantage of her. It would probably be best if she stayed in Touka Village and let them retrieve the sword for her. However, this was her quest to restore her honor after having lost her sword. The sword was her responsibility, but she accepted the generous offer of having an Armored War God travel with her. Kanu growled at the fact that she seemed to miss the detail of the others besides Gaim travelling with her.
At the gate, the group prepared to leave. Said group consisted of Kanu, Chouhi, Chou'un, Ryuubi, Komei and Nagata himself. The ones being left back at the village were Kochu, Bacho, and Iori. Riri was being carried in Kochu's arms, wanting to likewise say goodbye to all of her friends.
"Sorry you guys can't come along but you need to stay to defend the the village in case of enemy attack," Nagata apologized.
"Hey, we understand," Bacho nodded. "Kinda wished I was with you but I guess there's no helping it."
"We will make sure this place is still here when you return," Iori promised.
"That's all I needed to hear," smiled Nagata.
"Aisha-oneechan, everyone, bye-bye!" Riri waved. "Bring home presents."
"Riri," Kochu chided her daughter.
Chouhi wore a wide smile and Chou'un wondered, "Why are you smiling like that?"
"Oh, because I want them to remember my smiling face as I leave," Chouhi answered.
"Remember, hm?" Chou'un questioned. "Alright." Chou'un smiled at Iori, Bacho, Kochu and Riri, only the effect wasn't pleasant as the adults froze while Kochu covered Riri's eyes. Iori's eyes actually opened all the way, which was rare, as he was startled by what he saw.
"Mommy, what's wrong? I can't see," asked Riri as Kochu still covered her eyes.
"How's that?" Chou'un asked as her face turned to normal.
"I will never forget that," a trembling, traumatized Bacho replied, "I'll probably see it in my dreams." She didn't sound happy about it.
"That is something I can never unsee," shuddered Iori, his eyes still wide open. He, his wife, daughter and Bacho then waved as they watched their friends leave.
As the travelling party went down the path, Ryuubi immediately fastened herself to Nagata. Nagata didn't seem to mind but Kanu just glared as she watched the interaction. Ryuubi had only appeared and now she was trying to get close to her master. It just didn't seem right for the rosette to get too familiar with Nagata like that after they had only just met the day before. Her heart told her to go and grab Nagata's arm and make sure everyone knew she had staked her claim. Her indecision though said not to cause waves and deal with it once they were alone.
Chou'un, noticing this, could only smirk in amusement. She already knew there was something going on between Kanu and Nagata. Chouhi, as usual, was oblivious to such things and Komei was just travelling alongside them, looking forward to their destination.
The traveling party turned around a bend when they stopped at the sight of someone sitting on a box in the middle of the road. He was easily distinguished as a Rinrinshi, identified by his exposed, ghost-white face and red robes. The ornament on his head resembled a horse's head. When the group stopped, the jiang-shi looked up and snorted, sounding much like a horse. He then stood up and snapped his fingers, summoning a contingent of Rinshi from the sides, surrounding the group.
"Hand over Ryuubi Gentoku and die!" the horse Rinrinshi declared.
"Wait, isn't it supposed to be 'or die'?" Nagata questioned.
"I know what I said! Now hand the girl over or else!" snapped the Rinrinshi.
"Not gonna happen," Nagata said as he strapped on his SengokuDriver. "Girls, protect Ryuubi-san!"
"Hai, Gaim-sama!" Chou'un and Kanu obeyed.
"Gotcha, Nagata-niichan!" Chouhi added.
Nagata took out his Orange Lockseed and clicked it with a call, "Henshin!"
[ORANGE!]
Ryuubi gaped as she saw the Orange Arms come out of its portal before Nagat clipped his Lockseed into his SengokuDriver, causing war horns to sound as the portal closed. He then gripped the Cutting Blade lever and brought it down over the Lockseed.
[SOIYA! ORANGE ARMS!]
The Orange Arms dropped on Nagata's head, landing on his shoulders as energy rippled over his body, forming his bodysuit.
[HANAMICHI ON STAGE!]
The metal orange opened and pieces of it folded onto Gaim's body to form his armor. A splash of orange energy announced the complete transformation and the Daidaimaru appeared in his left hand.
"Kamen Rider Gaim! Arriving on Stage!" Gaim declared. Oh, Ryuubi wanted to squeal as she witnessed firsthand an Armored War God's amazing transformation. Still, even a fangirl of her level knew that there was a time and place for such things. Once he won the battle and everyone was safe then she would squeal and fawn over him.
"Rinshi!" the Rinrinshi ordered, sending his minions at the group of travellers. "I am Master of the RinJyu Stallion-ken! Call me Umakira!" He dashed towards them. "Jujin Jashin Hen!"
As he ran at them, his body shattered to reveal his Beastman form. His right shoulder looked like the neck and head of a proud brown stallion. The stallion's front legs curled over his right side with the hooves on his right hip. His left side was covered in a blue cloak like a matador's cloak. His legs were partially protected by armor which were metallic with red velvet and his feet were protected by metal boots shaped like a horse's hooves with spikes emerging from the hoof sections.
"Ryuubi-san, Shuri, you both take cover! Sei, protect them! Rinrin, Aisha, back me up!" Gaim shouted orders.
"Hai, Gaim-sama!" the girls replied before doing what they were told. The Rinrinshi was the biggest threat, hence he was Gaim's opponent. The footsoldiers were Chouhi and Kanu's opponents.
Twirling her polearm, Kanu let out a battlecry and knocked the Rinshi away, "RinJyuKen! We won't let you spread terror today!"
"That's right! I am the Mighty Pig General Rinrin! You're going down!" added Chouhi as she charged and swung her own weapon, catching Rinshi and knocked them away. Chou'un hung back, defending Ryuubi and Komei, the only non-combatants.
Meanwhile, Gaim fought with Umakira who was bouncing on his feet. Suddenly, the horse-like Rinrinshi hit Gaim in the face with a punch before landing a kick to his chest. Stumbling back, Gaim huffed and prepared for another charge.
"Stallion-Ken! Ringi! Tekutonikkukikku! (Tectonic Kick)" Umakira turned around and kicked back like a stallion would, striking Gaim in the chest with enough force to take him off of his feet and sailing back across the battlefield before landing in a cloud of dust back down the path. Gaim groaned, his vision blurry as he struggled to get his breath back since the kick had forced his breath out, even wearing his suit.
"And now I'll take Ryuubi!" Umakira dashed at great speed. He snuck behind Ryuubi and grabbed hold of her, much to Komei and Chou'un's surprise.
"Hey!" Chou'un was about to strike when Umakira held Ryuubi as a human shield, stopping the attack. "I have her now!" the Rinrinshi declared as he had his arm around Ryuubi's neck. He looked her over. "Hm, and she's a pretty one." He then groped her breasts. "Soft and bouncy too!"
"Kyaa!" Ryuubi screamed as she was being molested. She struggled in his grip, but his grip was just too strong.
"Let's see the goods!" Umakira grabbed ahold of her top and tore it right off, revealing her naked upper body. "Wow!" Gaim couldn't believe what he was seeing. This Rinshi was a pervert and purposely molesting Ryuubi before her eyes.
"KYAAA!" Ryuubi screamed as she was exposed. He then cupped her breasts.
"Ryuubi…" Gaim grunted, pulling himself up.
"Wow...these are so super soft! Maybe you can become my pet!" he said lecherously. The warriors hung back, unable to do anything lest the Rinrinshi harm Ryuubi.
"Let her go!" Gaim demanded.
"Come and take her!" Umakira dared. Of course someone did decide to do something about what was happening to the poor girl.
"Halt, villain!" Kachou Kamen announced suddenly, standing atop a tree branch before jumping down. "I, Kachou Kamen, will not allow you to harm this girl!"
"And what are you going to do about it?" Umakira challenged. With Ryuubi as a hostage and human shield there was nothing they could do. Well, almost nothing.
Hiding out in the nearby bushes, Komei took out her Himawari Lockseed and clicked on it. The Lockseed unlocked itself and opened a portal behind Umakira's head. A small Elementary Inves no bigger than a small child of Komei's size, jumped out and latched onto the back of Umakira's head, digging its claws deep into his face. Screaming, Umakira released Ryuubi and Kachou Kamen collected her before taking her far from the Rinrinshi. Umakira was trying to get the Elementary Inves off, screaming curses the whole time.
"Nice going, Shuri!" praised Gaim before he darted forward and slashed Umakira across the chest. The tiny Inves was thrown off and Komei ran over to it.
"Go back now, little one," she commanded and it obeyed, jumping back into the portal before Komei closed it using her Lockseed.
"Dammit!" Umakira cursed as his hostage had gotten away. "What the heck was that thing?!"
"Chance!" Gaim hit the Cutting Blade.
[SOIYA! ORANGE SQUASH!]
Gaim leapt into the air, executing a flying kick as a series of giant orange slices made of energy projected themselves between him and his target. He flew through the slices, orange energy surrounding his kicking foot and body like flames. Flying through the last slice, he smashed into Umakira, sending him to oblivion in a huge explosion. Landing on one knee, Gaim rose up and turned to the girls. The Rinshi had either been destroyed by the girls or had begun to flee after seeing Umakira bite the dust. He had barely managed to get a proper fight for it.
"Gaim-sama! You were amazing!" Ryuubi cheered but Gaim looked away, covering his visor with his hand. "What's wrong?"
"Ryuubi-dono, you're a bit exposed," Kanu pointed out and Ryuubi screamed as she covered herself. Nagata deactivated his armor and then he removed his blue dress shirt, leaving him in a white undershirt.
"Here, take it," he offered and Ryuubi took the shirt to cover herself. "Looks like we're gonna need to get Ryuubi-san some new clothes," remarked Nagata.
"We should head back to the village for new clothes," Kanu suggested.
"I'm so sorry," Ryuubi apologized.
"Well, at least now you know why it's better for you to travel with us," Nagata said. Ryuubi looked at him and blushed. He was so generous and kind, willing to give her his own shirt to save her modesty.
"Ah, where is that Kachou Kamen person?" Ryuubi asked. Chou'un chose that time to run out of a bush.
"What did I miss?" she asked.
"Ah, Chou'un-san! Where were you? An amazing person came! She's called Kachou Kamen!" Ryuubi told her.
Kanu walked over to Nagata's side as the latter palmed his face, "Seriously?" Even Ryuubi couldn't tell that Kachou Kamen and Chou'un were one and the same? With Chouhi it was kind of funny, but if a girl Ryuubi's age couldn't tell then there had to be something wrong with her.
"So suspicious!" Chouhi frowned. "She shows up and then leaves without a word! Like I said, suspicious!"
'She STILL doesn't get it?!" Nagata thought incredulously. Chou'un exposed her identity during that whole giant bandit raid in one big dramatic flourish and Chouhi never noticed it?
"Oh, amazing, you say?" Chou'un smiled.
"Yes! And she also had this amazing mask! I wonder who she really is!" continued Ryuubi.
Nagata could only sweatdrop heavily, 'Ryuubi Gentoku is a ditz?'
"Oh, and Gaim-sama was amazing too!" Ryuubi continued, turning to smile at Nagata. Incidentally, she flashed her cleavage at Nagata by accident. He flushed and looked away while Kanu began to twitch again. "Oops! Sorry!"
"We really need to get you a new outfit," he stated urgently.
"I may have something she can change into," Kanu informed him.
"So, does that mean we gotta head back to the village?" he asked. The answer was obvious. "Right, I thought so. Come on, guys."
KRC: Looks like the start of another adventure. What other dangers will they face? Would there be enemies to fight? Naturally. However, whenever there is evil to fight, the Armored War Gods will be there to battle it.
TFP: And we see the return of the Armored War Gods. A new adventure has begun and its off to a rocky start to be honest.
Lost Scrolls of the RInJyuKen Akugata
Stallion-Ken: This JyuKen is a style which focuses on kicks and movement of horses. It specializes in attacks that deal with kicks. Part of the mechanics of the style is the positioning of those kicks and moving to be in the position to make them. A downside of the style though is that one can focus too much on the movements and not the strikes if they aren't careful. There also aren't too many upper body attacks the style uses although the number of kicks make up for it.
Tekutonikkukikku: The Tectonic Kick is a reverse striking kick which follows the same mechanics stallions use to strike things which are behind them. The empowered muscles of the JyuKen make for a devastating blow which can send targets sailing.