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.
KRC: This arc will be dedicated to D-Generation XX for his helpful criticism.
Minamoto got himself some dumplings from a vendor and was enjoying them as he walked through the festival grounds. It might be a bit chilly, but it did not deter everyone from feeling festive. It was nice. It was just a shame that it would all end soon.
While Minamoto was getting breakfast, he heard about an incident that took place at the palace earlier in the morning. He learned that there was an explosion during the middle of an important event and a lot of people were killed.
Minamoto spotted the statue dedicated to Armored War God Zangetsu, an effigy in his own image. Minamoto glared at the statue of Son Go's supposed guardian and protector with disdain. He would not allow it to bring down his good mood. After all, he had gotten lucky and spent the night with a gorgeous woman yesterday.
Score!
And besides, it was a festival and he wanted to enjoy it for as long as he could. After all, you must cherish the fun times as long as you can before it all comes to an end and crashing down.
"It's your move now, Onii-chan."
Sangokuden Armored War Gods Saga: End of the Armored War Gods
Co-Written By: Kamen Rider Chrome & Ten-Faced Paladin
Beta Reader/Editor: Busterleader92
Chapter 27: The Red Death
The tournament had to be canceled due to the explosion. It was an absolute tragedy. Many people had been killed in the explosion and there were a good number of them suffering from severe injuries with a few that only got minor injuries. Those standing too close to the explosion when it occurred were killed instantly and many of the injured were taken for treatment by the palace's physicians since the incident took place on palace grounds.
While most had fled in panic, some of the citizens lingered out of curiosity. Guards stood around the area, forming a perimeter and making sure curious civilians didn't get too close to cause a mess of things.
Masataka grimaced as he came upon the scene with Shuutai. It was a gruesome sight. There were bodies everywhere, covered up by sheets. He had seen what was under the sheets and had to turn away from the gory mess. There was one body that had been blown to pieces. That was why Sonshoko was sent to her room as to spare her from seeing all this.
"What could've done this, Zangetsu-sama?" Shuutai asked, horrified.
"I don't know, Minmei. But I intend to find out," Masataka vowed.
The Tiger Festival was supposed to be a special celebration for the people of Son Go. With this incident, it might turn into something else. It just happened so fast. The people were all excited about the Inves Games Tournament and then, suddenly, someone shouted and there was an explosion. Now, the memory of what happened here was forever burned into everyone's minds. Masataka had the gut feeling that this was only a prelude to a much greater threat.
Masataka adjusted his glasses as he scanned the crime scene. There had to be some kind of clue here. As he looked around, he noticed something in the debris. He knelt down to get a closer look.
"What's this?" he wondered.
It looked like a piece of a Lockseed. Picking the piece up, he studied it for a moment. It was charred but he could still make out its color, which was red. He spotted several more pieces scattered on the ground. He collected the pieces and placed them in a handkerchief so he could study them later.
"Sonken-sama!" Shuutai gasped as Sonken approached, accompanied by Ryomo and Kannei.
"Masataka-kun, have you found anything?" Sonken asked, looking distressed.
"Renfa-sama, you shouldn't be out here," Masataka advised.
"I tried to stop her but she insisted," Ryomo sighed. Masataka could not blame her. Sonken was not the type of girl to back down from anything without a good enough reason.
"Masataka-kun, remember that I've been on a battlefield before. I am used to such sights," Sonken assured him. That was true as she had participated in many battles in the past and had experienced seeing men fall in battle.
"Very well," Masataka agreed. His fiancée was strong-willed, just like her sister. At least Sonshoko was not here to see this. He really did not want her to be traumatized further.
"What do you think might have caused this?"
"I found this."
Masataka showed Sonken the pieces.
"What is it?"
"An important clue."
"It looks like broken pieces of a Lockseed," stated Ryomo as she looked at them carefully.
"Yes, they are. I'm going to see if I can put it back together. I might be able to figure out what it is and where it came from," Masataka explained.
"Alright, Masataka-kun. I'll leave this to you. I want this courtyard cleared up and the bodies sent for burial," Sonken ordered.
"I'll pass on the order," Ryomo volunteered.
"Kannei, I need you to double the guards and send them out on patrol," Sonken instructed Kannei. Not only was she Sonken's bodyguard, but Kannei was captain of the guard.
"It will be done," Kannei complied.
"And I have a mystery to solve," said Masataka. "Shuutai, I want you to go and question the attendees we have in the medical tent. Maybe they saw something."
"You know, when it comes to Inves Games, I thought the only danger was having the Inves going out of control," spoke Kogai as she sat with Masataka in his office and going over their records.
Masataka managed to put together the pieces he had found and while there weren't enough to make a whole Lockseed, it was still enough to be identified. The two of them were going over the Lockseeds they had harvested from the Helheim Forest to try and identify it.
The Lockseed Distribution Department kept records of every Lockseed they had ever made or seen. With so many Lockseeds being discovered, having a thorough record was beneficial. The records even included the Energy Lockseeds and Sovereign Lockseeds which included Nagata's Ryujin Key. Next to a picture of each Lockseed was a brief description.
"This is definitely not one of our Lockseeds," Masataka said as he closed the book he was checking.
They had produced many Lockseeds modeled after a variety of fruits and nuts but this one was not one of theirs. They had not found any mentions of the Lockseed. It was one they had never encountered before so it was not listed. What made it odd was the lack of an ID code. All Lockseeds had ID codes. Masataka's Melon Lockseed was given the ID code L.S.-04. Special and rare Lockseeds used words instead like the twins' Golden and Silver Ringo Lockseeds which were coded L.S.-GOLD and L.S.-SILVER respectively. A codeless Lockseed was new, especially one that could explode. Masataka would need to add it to the list.
"It looks kind of like a pomegranate. Who do you think made it?" Kogai asked.
The Armored War Gods could create their Lockseeds by harvesting the fruits from Helheim. With a single touch, while wearing their Drivers, they could convert the deadly fruit into functional Lockseeds. The type of Lockseed that they got was usually random.
Masataka did not suspect his allies. Instead, he concluded only one group could manufacture such a deadly Lockseed.
"The Armored War Devils," Masataka answered. The group seemed hell-bent on ruining the peace that the Three Kingdoms were fighting for.
"Sounds about right," Kogai frowned. She really hated them for ruining the Tiger Festival. It was supposed to be a fun day, but it was marred by this tragedy.
"I know they can be extreme with their tactics, but sending a suicide bomber is new," Masataka remarked.
"A 'suicide bomber'?" Kogai asked, unfamiliar with the term.
"In my world, it's a tactic used by fanatical terrorists to spread chaos. They send a member with explosives strapped to their body into a populated area. Then, they detonate the explosives, cause a lot of destructive and create a panic," Masataka explained. The suicide bomber's body was the one that was blown to bits since he had been holding the explosive Lockseed when he activated it. "It's usually done to send a message."
"You mean a threat."
"I'm afraid so."
The Armored War Devils were from this era, so they would not have any knowledge of suicide bombing tactics. That could only mean that someone from Masataka's world had shown up here and given the knowledge to their enemies.
"It's just so insane that someone would be willing enough to blow themselves up just to make a point," said Kogai in disbelief.
"That's the power of blind devotion, I'm afraid. Suicide bombers are seen as martyrs that can help to strengthen a cause. They consider it a huge honor," Masataka lamented. Extremists would do anything to get their way, no matter how many people were sacrificed to accomplish their plan.
At that moment, Shuutai entered and she looked frantic.
"Zangetsu-sama, we've got big trouble!" Shuutai exclaimed.
"What is it now?" Masataka asked. He was in no mood for more bad news.
"I questioned the attendees like you asked. They did not see anything unusual but they're holding you accountable for what happened this morning. They believe it was caused by a faulty Lockseed and are demanding you to take responsibility," Shuutai explained.
The people were looking for a scapegoat and Masataka was the one with the bullseye painted on his back. He expected this. There was a small fraction of the population who opposed the use of the Lockseeds. They believed the devices to be unholy as they could summon monsters from another world. They were a minority but it seemed they had grown in number and influence. They wanted their voice to be heard.
"What do you plan to do, Sensei?" Kogai asked.
"I'm going to do my duty as Son Go's Armored War God and you're all going to help me. We're going to find the culprits behind this and put an end to their scheme. But first, I'm going to ask Renfa-sama to cancel the Tiger Festival," Masataka answered.
Shuutai and Kogai shared incredulous looks at Masataka.
Cancel the Tiger Festival? Was he serious?
Masataka was stopped by the guards as he approached the throne room. After what happened earlier, the guards were on high alert and being extra cautious. They allowed him in after he explained why he needed to see Sonken.
Sonken was on her throne, speaking with Shuyu. No, it looked like they were arguing. He wondered about Shuyu's absence from this morning but set it aside for more urgent matters. She likely knew what had happened earlier and was speaking to Sonken about what to do about it.
"Renfa-sama! Shuyu-dono!" Masataka called as he bowed in front of them.
Sonken was relieved to see him. Masataka could guess that her discussion with Shuyu was bothering her. Speaking of Shuyu, Masataka noticed the look of annoyance that crossed her face before she replaced it with a neutral and serious expression. Shuyu was really good at hiding her emotions, but Masataka was able to catch the change in her expression. She was his mentor and he learned a few tricks while studying under her.
"Masataka-kun, did you manage to learn anything new?" Sonken asked hopefully.
"From the evidence I gathered at the crime scene, I determine that the source of the explosion was a Lockseed that I had never discovered before," Masataka answered.
"An explosive in the form of a Lockseed? Is that even possible?" Sonken questioned.
Sonken had seen Lockseeds that could summon armor, Inves and turn into vehicles. An explosive Lockseed was new to her. The fireworks are the closest thing they had to explosives and they were normally used for celebrations in this era. To see such things being used in such a destructive manner was terrifying.
Masataka knew that the Chinese were quite innovative. They would figure out how to weaponized fireworks. It was only a matter of time.
"It is likely that our enemies, the Armored War Devils have created Lockseeds with explosive capabilities," Masataka affirmed.
"So, they are behind this," Sonken reasoned as her eyes narrowed. "The Armored War Devils." Of course, the Armored War Devils would be behind all this. The group was dubbed as a terrorist faction and for good reason. It was an apt description as the group's goal was to spread terror across the land. They were allied with the RinJyuKen Akugata who benefited from their terrorist activities. From all the panic and chaos the Armored War Devils spread, the RinJyuKen could harvest Rinki to increase their power.
Masataka continued his report.
"This latest attack is a new tactic they've employed. I would never have thought they would ever use suicide bombers."
"What do you mean 'suicide bombers'?" Sonken asked, unfamiliar with the term.
"In my world, there are people who use explosive devices to spread fear and terror. The most extreme send soldiers strapped with explosives to target populated areas. I believe that this is another fear tactic being used by our enemies and I'm afraid it is only the first of many," Masataka explained.
"What do you propose we do then?" Sonken asked.
"For the safety of the people of this kingdom, I suggest you cancel the Tiger Festival and set a curfew," Masataka advised.
Sonken and Shuyu gasped.
"You can't cancel the festival!" Shuyu protested loudly. Cancelling the Tiger Festival was unthinkable!
"We must! We need to prioritize the people's safety!" Masataka argued back.
"We have guards and you for that! We can't allow these terrorists to scare us!"
"We don't know when or where our enemies will strike next!"
"Then find out where they are and take care of them! We simply cannot cancel the Tiger Festival! Doing so would be showing weakness!"
"Shuyu-dono, be reasonable! This was done to send a message!"
"Sonsaku-sama would not back down from threats!"
"ENOUGH!" Sonken yelled, shutting her two advisors up. They ceased their quarrel and turned to Sonken. While they were her advisors and were tasked with helping her to make informed decisions with good pointers, she had the final say on all matters within her kingdom. As Queen of Son Go, her word was law.
Also, she really did not want to hear them yell at each other anymore and wanted them to shut up. They were giving her a major headache.
"I'm sorry, Sonken-sama," Masataka apologized for his behavior.
"I apologize as well," Shuyu added.
After quietly listening to her advisors' argument and considering their points, Sonken made her decision.
"The Tiger Festival will still continue as scheduled."
Shuyu smiled triumphantly as Masataka frowned. He did not think it was wise, but this was Sonken's decision and her word was law in Son Go. All he could do now was to support her.
"I won't issue a curfew either," Sonken continued. She could tell her subjects would not appreciate that either. "But I will assign more guards for the remainder of the festival." She commanded, "Masataka-kun, please investigate what happened and make sure you keep things discreet to avoid a panic. Report your findings straight to me."
Well, at least she was taking this matter seriously.
"Your wish is my command, Sonken-sama," Masataka answered with a bow.
"Now, I need to prepare a speech for my subjects to ease their worries," Sonken said as she stood up and headed for the exit. "I'll be in my chamber. Please, do not disturb me."
Sonken was in her personal bedchamber as she sat at her desk with a sheet of paper laid out in front of her. An inkstone was placed beside her with a brush.
Sonken needed to prepare a speech to give to the people. No doubt news of the incident had already spread. Her subjects were emotionally volatile now and they wanted answers.
Sonken may not have all the answers now, but she would tell her people not to panic. Hopefully, her words would ease their worries.
Sonken let out a sigh. When Sonsaku ruled, she never let anything get to her. In fact, Sonsaku dealt with everything calmly and gracefully until action needed to be taken. Then, Sonsaku would deliver punishment justly without hesitation.
Sonken had seen all sides of her eldest sister. Sonsaku was a ruler, a big sister, and someone that Sonken admired. She could be gentle and loving, mischievous and teasing, comforting and wise, and also ruthless and tenacious.
After the death of Sonken Bundai, Sonsaku was next in line for the throne. Sonsaku was the most like their mother and she proved it on the battlefield. She led their army on one campaign after another, capturing territories to expand their borders, influence, and power. Sonsaku was willing to spill blood if it meant giving Son Go a prosperous future.
Sonsaku's plan was to leave the kingdom to Sonken so she could live in peace. However, Sonsaku's death led to Sonken taking the throne prematurely. While Sonken was prepared to take the throne someday, she never thought that it would be after her sister's sudden death. She expected it to happen, but not so soon.
It was a difficult transition for Sonken when she took the throne. Sonsaku had just been assassinated and Masataka was framed for the crime he didn't commit. Tempers were high. The kingdom was in a state of crisis and uncertainty. They needed a leader and Sonken had to step up. So, she took the throne and took command. She did her best while things were unstable and they managed to survive. Masataka's name was cleared and everything was back to normal as it was.
Unfortunately, while things were back to normal, they were not the same and were not any easier. Their enemies were growing stronger and bolder while Shuyu was critical of every decision Sonken made. It was like Shuyu expected Sonken to be just like Sonsaku. Their relationship was strained but Shuyu remained onboard out of her loyalty to the kingdom and out of respect for Sonsaku and the royal family.
Sonken was grateful that she was not going through all this alone. She had her fiancé, the Armored War God of the Ultimate Shield Zangetsu. She also had her family, friends, and advisors by her side. With them supporting her, she knew she could rule Son Go. Her big sister had left the kingdom to her and she would honor her memory and not squander all the effort that Sonsaku had put into making their kingdom the most powerful force it was today.
However, sometimes Sonken wished Sonsaku was still around. At least her big sister could advise her. Sonken may not have always agreed with Sonsaku's methods, but she still respected her big sister's experience and right now Sonken could use her wisdom.
"Did you really ask Sonken-sama to cancel the Tiger Festival?" Ryomo asked Masataka as he had tea with her and Rikuson. Shuyu was noticeably absent, which did not surprise Masataka. After their argument, she likely went someplace else to avoid him so she could cool down.
"I thought it was a good idea," Masataka defended.
"Probably not the best idea considering how important this festival is," Rikuson opined. Considering the circumstances, she understood why Masataka thought it might be a good idea, but the Tiger Festival was practically sacred to the people of Son Go.
Shuyu was furious when he suggested they cancel the Tiger Festival, but he should've expected it. The festival was dedicated to Sonken Bundai. Shuyu highly respected the woman and had served her during her time as Son Go's ruler before she died.
"So, what did Sonken-sama ask you to do, Zangetsu-dono?" Ryomo asked.
"To catch the culprits behind the incident before it happens again," Masataka answered.
"How will you do that?" Rikuson questioned.
"I just need to get in touch with my contacts to find some leads," Masataka answered and he knew exactly who to ask.
Shuyu had gone out to cool her head. She could not believe that Masataka could be so disrespectful! Who did he think he was for trying to cancel the Tiger Festival? How dare he even suggest such a thing? Did he not realize its importance to the kingdom?
Sonken had made a decision. It was a good thing she did not agree with the foolish idea of canceling the Tiger Festival. The people would riot if that happened. They may not wholly agree with the idea of a curfew, but at least the Tiger Festival would not be canceled.
Shuyu once again found herself in the same club she had gone to the night before. She was sitting at the same bar too, nursing a drink. She also found herself with a very familiar company.
"Did not expect to see you here again since you ditched me this morning," Minamoto said as he found Shuyu sitting at the bar again. She flushed when she saw him. Her memory of what they did last night was fuzzy, but it was coming back to her.
Shuyu and Minamoto were having drinks at the bar together, making conversation.
"So, I'm new in town," Minamoto told Shuyu.
"Did you come for the festival?" Shuyu asked.
"Yeah, I love a good festival. When I heard about the one here, I figured I drop to check it out and have some fun."
"I see."
"So, since you're a local, Shuyu-san, is the Tiger Festival as fun as advertised?"
"It most definitely is," Shuyu answered with a nostalgic smile. She remembered the many Tiger Festivals she spent with Sonsaku. Then her smile turned into a frown since Sonsaku was no longer around.
Minamoto noticed this.
"What got you down?" he asked.
"It's just...I lost someone a while back," Shuyu confessed. She did not know why she was opening up to a stranger. Maybe the wine was loosening her lips.
"Were you close?"
"Very close. We were very much close. She was right beside me and in the blink of an eye she was gone."
"I'm sorry to hear that."
"Thank you."
"Has it been hard adjusting without her?"
"Sometimes I forget that she's no longer around. Sometimes I wish it was just a dream and when I wake up she would be right there beside me."
Shuyu emptied her cup again and Minamoto refilled it. She needed this. Wine helped to numb the pain.
"You'd do anything to get her back, huh?" Minamoto questioned.
"There is nothing that I would want more than anything to have her back," Shuyu confessed. She really missed Sonsaku.
Shuyu had loosened up a bit after a few more drinks and was sharing a laugh with her new friend Minamoto.
"So, I hid my brother's work and he starts freaking out trying to look for it," Minamoto told Shuyu.
"That's just terrible of you! Did he even realize what you did?" Shuyu asked.
"Nope, he didn't even suspect a thing. Then, when he wasn't looking, I put it right back in his bag. He practically cried!"
Shuyu laughed and hiccupped a bit. She was a bit tipsy, evident by her flushed cheeks. Minamoto was starting to get a bit drunk as well.
"What...what time is it...?" Shuyu slurred.
"Pretty late," Minamoto answered.
"I should be getting back," Shuyu said as she got off her stool and nearly tripped.
"You can't. You're drunk!"
"So are you~!"
"You need to lie down."
Shuyu hiccupped.
"Ye~yes!"
Minamoto supported her. Shuyu readjusted her glasses and looked at him.
"Minamoto-san, you know, you're kinda cute."
"Thank you, Shuyu-san. My mother used to say I was a cute kid."
"Yes...very cute..." Shuyu leaned in and pressed her lips against his. Minamoto was surprised but he did not pull back. She let her lips linger before she pulled away. "And you have tasty lips." Shuyu hiccupped again.
She wrapped her arms around him and kissed him again. This time he reciprocated. They kissed passionately. Instead of going for the exit, they headed toward the stairs that led up to the rooms on the second floor of the club.
Shuyu blushed as she recalled what she had done in bed with Minamoto. Shuyu had never lain with a man before. Before this, Sonsaku was her first and only lover. It's not that she didn't like men, but she was in love with Sonsaku and only her. Though, when Sonsaku asked if she wanted to bear Masataka's child so they could raise the child together, she had momentarily considered it. Masataka was attractive and trustworthy, but she rejected the idea. Masataka had declined the idea as well since it would not be proper.
Then Sonsaku had asked Shuyu if they could have the Blue King of Shoku help them bear a child. Again, Shuyu refused, loudly, out of embarrassment. Sonsaku was an incorrigible tease so Shuyu could not tell if she was being serious or not.
After Sonsaku's death, Shuyu had abstained from sex, refusing to soil herself with another lover. She spent many nights alone but managed to keep herself from succumbing to temptation by focusing on her work.
However, after several months, the urges became too much. She needed relief and she thought she could get it by coming to the red light district. She would have some wine and spend money on a girl to keep her company for the night. Then, she would leave without any regrets. It was just supposed to be a one-time thing.
Shuyu's evening did not go as planned. She met Minamoto-who she admitted was pretty cute-and ended up sleeping with him. She could not believe that she got drunk and ended up having a one-night stand with a stranger.
It was a one-night stand, something she had never done before. Sure, she and Sonsaku had slept together while drunk once or twice, but they had been lovers. This time Shuyu had slept with a random guy she just met in a brothel.
Shuyu had slept with Minamoto out of impulse. It should not have happened, but it did. It did not matter if she was drunk at the time. What mattered was that it did happen. It was why she fled as soon as she woke up. She wanted to put the entire thing behind her.
And yet, here she was, right back at the place where her indiscretion took place.
"Minamoto-san, what happened before-what we did-was a mistake. We were both drunk and not in control of ourselves," Shuyu told him. She already felt bad enough for coming here again and she did not want to be reminded of her transgression. She hated the fact that she could not help herself from coming back.
"Don't worry about it," Minamoto casually dismissed. "It's not my style to embarrass a lady. What happened stays between us."
"So, you won't tell anyone?" Shuyu questioned hopefully. She really did not have a way to force him to keep what they did a secret. She would just have to trust him.
"Like I said, what happened stays between us. So, once more, what's a lady like you doing in a place like this again?" Minamoto asked. "It can't be for the drinks, right? Maybe you came for the company."
Shuyu did not really come for the drinks. Honestly, she had better wine back at the palace. No, she came here to be alone with her thoughts and to get away from everyone and her problems, at least for a little while. Besides, what was the harm in sharing her problems with Minamoto? As long as it was not sensitive information, it shouldn't be an issue.
"Just some problems at work," Shuyu told Minamoto.
"Oh? What seems to be the problem?" Minamoto asked.
"I have this colleague and he's so frustrating," Shuyu grumbled. "He insists that he's right even though he's not as experienced as I am."
"My brother's like that too. He's always telling me what to do, saying it's for my own good. He doesn't give me any space or trust me at all," Minamoto complained.
"Exactly. That sounds so much like him. Do you know what makes him even more unbearable? He's engaged with the woman I'm working for," Shuyu continued.
"Wow, so he's sleeping with your boss?" Minamoto asked.
"Yes, yes he is," Shuyu nodded. "Whenever I walk past her room, I can hear them and I hate them for it." Whenever Shuyu saw Sonken and Masataka being romantic together, it served to remind her of what she had lost. It made her feel bitter on the inside.
"Does it make you want to strangle them?" Minamoto asked.
"Sometimes I have the urge to poison them but I try to put it out of my mind," Shuyu answered.
"Yeah, there are times when I wanted to kill my brother for nagging at me all the time. I just want him to shut up."
"I'd live so much easier if I didn't have to watch or listen to them being all lovey-dovey with each other. It just makes me so sick."
"It's rough dealing with that all the time," Minamoto responded sympathetically.
"Thankfully, we have ways to cope." Shuyu sipped her wine. "Good drinks and good company!"
"That's right!" Minamoto raised his cup as he agreed cheerfully. "Kampai!"
Masataka and Shuutai entered the red light district that night. Brothels were legal in this era and were set up as a form of service. There were even gambling dens and taverns here. However, Masataka wasn't here to fuck some whore, get drunk or to go gambling. He was here to meet his informant and knew exactly where to find him.
As soon as Masataka and Shuutai entered the club, he was instantly swarmed by girls in short-skirted qipao. Shuutai glared at them all. These girls made money by providing services for the guests. They could sing, dance, give massages but more importantly they knew how to entertain between the sheets.
Long ago, Masataka had employed such services for relief but he was not here for that. He was here to meet 'The Broker'. The Broker was a legendary informant. There was nothing going on that he did not know about. If it happened in Son Go, he'd know. Nothing went on in the kingdom without his knowledge and he was the one who had dirt on every noble and official in the country. He even knew about things that happened outside of Son Go's borders. There was literally no information that was out of his reach. If there was something he did not know, he would find out, one way or another. He was also willing to provide information and share secrets for a sizable fee.
Masataka spotted The Broker in the club's VIP area surrounded by lovely courtesans on a couch. He had a well-trimmed beard and neatly combed hair as well. He was as always big-bellied and dressed like a noble, but Masataka knew that he wasn't all fat. He was also filled out with muscle. Masataka had once seen The Broker nearly crush a man's skull with his bare hands. He only stopped because he did not want to make a mess. Though, nobody ever saw the poor guy again. Masataka could only suspect that The Broker had made the man disappear.
The Broker's real name was Kuma. He was a very powerful man in Son Go's red light district. He actually owned all the brothels, gambling dens, taverns, and inns in the district. Anyone who wanted to start a business in the red light district needed to go to him for permission. Otherwise, well...their lives would become very difficult.
Masataka and Shuutai approached Kuma but they were blocked by his bodyguards. Kuma looked up and grinned, rubbing his beard as he greeted his guest.
"Ah, it's the White Devil again! Boys, stand aside! He's a friend!" The bodyguards parted and let Masataka and Shuutai pass. "Take a seat!"
Masataka first met Kuma a couple of months after he joined up with Sonsaku and he decided to look around the city. He entered a bar and overheard some interesting chatter. That was how he found Kuma. Since knowledge was power, Masataka knew that he would need to get on The Broker's good side to gain an advantage. Since their first meeting, in which Masataka made a very good first impression, he was always welcome to see Kuma.
Masataka took on another couch with Shuutai standing silently at his side. Her eyes were focused as she scanned the place for possible threats. Her hand never left her sword.
"Good evening, Kuma-san. I see you're enjoying yourself as usual," Masataka greeted.
"And good evening to you too, Zangetsu. Here, have some wine." A girl poured Masataka a cup of wine and he accepted it before taking a courtesy sip. He remembered not to drink too much so he didn't immediately empty his cup. "So, are you here for business or pleasure? If it's the latter, then I can set you up with a room and a few girls to entertain you. You should know how well they can please a man."
"I'm engaged," Masataka declined. He was betrothed to Sonken and he had no plans of sleeping with a prostitute behind her back.
"That's not a problem. Some of my best clients here are married or engaged to be married themselves," Kuma grinned. He casually reached over and pulled one girl into a wet kiss. Since this club belonged to him, he had free reign to do whatever he wanted or have any girl he desired. He literally owned the girls that worked here. Masataka could tell that the girl was not really enjoying it but she pretended to reciprocate. Kuma was not their most favorite guy to sleep with but he made sure they were taken care of. If there was one thing to say positively about him, it was how he would not allow any of his guests to mistreat his girls.
One guy learned that the hard way. He had not been seen since.
Shuutai did her best as to not let her disgust show. She was here to guard Masataka. Acting out against The Broker could get Masataka kicked out and barred from seeing his informant. According to Masataka, they needed The Broker's help. That did not mean she had to like him.
As Kuma casually rolled a Lockseed along his fingers, Masataka took a sip of his drink. When the Lockseeds were first introduced so were the Inves Games. Kuma was among the first to embrace the Inves Games, seeing the profitable potential of the devices. He began organizing underground Inves Games at one of his venues. People came to watch the fights and bet on them, but you needed money to get in. It was always fun and entertaining. As an added bonus, nobody got hurt...as long as they paid their debts to the house.
When Masataka introduced himself as the man responsible for bringing the Lockseeds to Son Go, Kuma decided they should become friends. He and Kuma had a very amicable and agreeable business arrangement. While Kuma was technically a criminal, he was allowed to continue his operations because of his information network. Masataka would turn a blind eye to Kuma's underground Inves Games and Kuma would give him the information he needed. It also helped that Masataka paid well for the information Kuma provided.
That didn't mean Masataka completely trusted the man. In his world, Kuma would be considered a Yakuza leader. He was in control of the thugs in the red light district, a king of his own little kingdom. Masataka only needed The Broker for his information network. In order to have access to it, Masataka would maintain a good professional relationship with The Broker.
"This isn't a social call, Kuma-san. You know what I'm here for," said Masataka firmly.
"Why can't we just enjoy ourselves and have a few drinks together?" Kuma asked with an audible sigh.
"You and I both know our relationship is strictly business, Kuma-san."
"You're no fun sometimes, Zangetsu, but I guess that's what I like about you. You cut right to the chase. So, I heard about what happened during the opening ceremony at the palace. It's a real tragedy. I was going to watch but I overslept. How many people got hurt?"
"Too many," Masataka answered grimly, remembering the bodies.
"That's a shame," Kuma said as he shook his head sympathetically.
"I just want to know if you've heard anything interesting or beyond the norm," Masataka requested.
"Information comes with a price, Zangetsu and the price is not cheap," Kuma reminded Masataka.
Masataka reached into his sleeve to pull out a money pouch which he placed on the table. He slid it over to The Broker.
"I hope that's enough." The Broker took the pouch and opened it up to check its contents. He smiled in approval.
"Alright, let's talk. What do you want to know?" Kuma offered.
"First, have you heard anything about men in white robes?" Masataka asked. He knew that the cultists served the Armored White Devils and the suicide bomber was likely one of their members.
"Ah, yes. The White Cloth Society. I've heard of them," Kuma confirmed.
"And what can you tell me about them?" Masataka pressed.
"First, they go by the name 'Genesis' now. They've been going around all over China, arranging secret meetings to spread their influence. They want to denounce the Armored War Gods, calling you all false gods, omens of disaster and instigators of war while preaching about their 'true gods' and 'saviors'. I even heard that a group of them are here in this city," Kuma explained.
The change of their name was new, but Masataka already knew about the cult's background. They were against the Armored War Gods and were led by Ukitsu and his Armored War Devils. That was how the cult got their hands on the Lockseeds. What Masataka wanted to know was how they could modify Lockseeds to make them explode.
"Do you know anything about some new Lockseeds, like the kind that explode?" Masataka asked.
"Is that what happened this morning?" Kuma responded, asking in return with eyes wide. He had known what had happened but not the cause. He rubbed his chin thoughtfully. "Explosive Lockseeds...that is strange."
"I suspect Genesis made them. Do you know if their members are in Son Go?" Masataka asked.
"Sorry, but that information I do not possess yet," Kuma answered before he offered, "But I can have a few of my men be on the lookout for them."
"And you will tell me what you find out?"
"Of course, but next time how about we have some fun too? Like watch and bet on some Inves Games. How's that?"
Masataka smiled.
"I'll think about it, Kuma-san. Thank you for your time."
Masataka stood up to leave, but it seemed that Kuma still had some information left to share.
"Wait, before you go, there are a couple of things I thought you'd like to know. First, it's about Shoku." When Masataka heard this information was about Shoku, he allowed Kuma to continue. "You might want to check up on them. I heard that they're not doing too well lately." That was vague, but if Kuma said it was worth checking out, then perhaps it was. Masataka decided he would check up on Shoku once the situation here in Son Go was resolved. "Also, I did see something interesting. I saw Shuyu Koukin here for two nights in a row. She was having drinks at the bar and she was not alone. She also spent the night here with the same guy."
"You must be mistaken. Shuyu-dono would never come here," Masataka defended Shuyu. He could not believe that Shuyu would ever come to the red light district for any reason. She was above such places. However, if what Kuma just said was true, then that would explain Shuyu's absence from this morning. Still, he would need to confirm this with Shuyu, especially about her sleeping with a stranger. But that could wait until later.
"I saw her with my own eyes. It was definitely her," Kuma insisted.
Masataka and Shuutai left Kuma's club together once Masataka finished questioning Kuma.
"Did you get everything you needed, Zangetsu-sama?" Shuutai asked.
"We got all we could. It's not much, but it will have to do for now," Masataka answered. It was always a gamble when going to The Broker for information and he had paid a hefty sum too. At least Kuma would have his men look around for the white-clad Genesis cultists.
But what he said about Shuyu, could it be true?
"Zangetsu-sama, when Kuma-san mentioned about Shuyu-sama coming to his club for drinks and spending the night with a stranger, was he telling the truth? It does not sound like her at all."
"For as long as I've known Kuma-san he has never once lied to me. We may need to speak with Shuyu-dono to verify things, though."
"So, what do we do now?"
"Now, we-" Masataka started before he was cut off at the sight of Sonken approaching him. "Ren-Renfa-sama?" Sonken was dressed in civilian clothing and she was not alone. She was accompanied by Kannei, her bodyguard.
"So, this is what you've been doing," Sonken said as she had witnessed Masataka and Shuutai leave the brothel together.
"Sonken-sama, this is not what it looks like! Zangetsu-sama was-!" Shuutai, fearing that Sonken suspected inappropriate conduct, tried to defend Masataka when he put a hand on her shoulder to stop her.
"It's alright, Minmei," said Masataka calmly. "Renfa-sama, how about we go grab some tea so we can talk?"
The four of them found a teahouse and were seated at a table together, each with a steaming cup of tea in front of them. Masataka was just telling Sonken what he was doing in the brothel.
"So your informant runs a brothel," Sonken concluded once he finished. Actually, The Broker ran the entire red light district, but Masataka was not about to correct Sonken's assumption.
"I know you don't approve of it, but The Broker has a way of getting valuable information. I believe he had some information that could give me a lead on this investigation," Masataka explained.
"And why didn't you inform me about this?" Sonken asked.
"Because I knew you would be upset when you learned I regularly visited a brothel. But you have nothing to worry about. The Broker offers me girls regularly but I never take him up on his offer," Masataka answered reassuringly.
"Did Onee-sama know about this?" Sonken asked. Before Masataka could answer, something caught his eye.
"Excuse me for a moment."
Masataka stood up and went up to the other table. Sitting at the table was a teenage boy who had just sat down and ordered some tea. Sitting alone, he admired the Lockseed in his hand. While he was admiring it, Masataka took the empty seat across from him.
"Excuse me, but do you mind if I sit here?" Masataka asked. The boy blinked, not sure what to say. Masataka took it as a concession. "Thank you. Anyway, I couldn't help but notice that Lockseed you got there. I've never seen it before."
"Well, it's brand new," the boy told Masataka.
"Really?" Masataka gave Ping a friendly smile. "What's your name? I'm Miyamoto."
"I'm Ping, Miyamoto-san," Ping introduced himself.
"Well, Ping-san, I'm interested in adding rare Lockseeds to my collection. Can you tell me how you got that Lockseed?" Masataka continued, speaking friendly and casually.
"Oh, I bought it. It's really rare and expensive too so I saved up to get it."
"So, you bought it," Masataka repeated. He crossed his arms and put his serious face on. "That's funny, because, according to my sources, that Lockseed is not up for sale."
"What are you talking about, Miyamoto-san?" Ping asked his acquaintance. He was beginning to sweat and Masataka noticed this.
"Because I run the Lockseed Distribution Department and the Lockseed you are holding there is not one of mine. It is also similar to the one that caused the explosion at the opening ceremony this morning."
Ping's eyes widened in panic. Quickly, he got up to run out of the teahouse but found his path blocked by Kannei and Shuutai. Swiftly, Shuutai snatched the Lockseed from Ping.
Ping backed away in fright and turned to see Masataka who had his hands tented in front of him and looking at him with a critical gaze that was cold as ice.
Shuutai went over to Masataka to hand him the Lockseed.
"Let's try this again, Ping-san. Tell me how you got this Lockseed and please be truthful this time," Masataka ordered. With no way out, Ping dejectedly sat back down. The waitress came back with Ping's tea. She was unable to read the mood and went to serve other customers.
Sonken watched, surprised and impressed. She continued to watch as Masataka questioned Ping. Ping remained tight lip. If Masataka was going to get answers from Ping, he would need to make the boy understand how serious this was.
"Ping-san, when it comes to Lockseed ownership, there is a lot of paperwork involved. First, you can't just buy a Lockseed. You're going to need a license so you'll have to fill out a request for one which requires you to list out personal information. Then, the requests come to me for approval. Based on the information on the request, I can decide to approve or reject it. If you are approved, you can pick up your license which will have stipulations on the kind of Lockseed you are allowed to purchase and own. If you were simply charged with possessing a Lockseed without a license, you will only need to pay a fine. This is not the case, unfortunately. You're in possession of a Lockseed that is identical to the one that was used to kill a lot of people this morning. Do you know how bad this looks? You could be suspected of treason."
Ping's eyes widened like saucers as his skin went pale and broke out in cold sweat.
"TREASON!?"
The crime of treason was punishable by death. That was the law in Son Go.
"You're young. You have your whole life ahead of you, Ping-san. For your own sake and for the sake of your future, tell me where you got this Lockseed," Masataka requested calmly.
Ping had no choice but to confess. It was better than being executed.
"I saw these men carrying crates that were filled with these Lockseeds. They loaded them inside of a wagon. This one fell out of the wagon and I picked it up," Ping admitted.
"And where did you see this happen?" Masataka asked.
"An abandoned mansion nearby. I can show you where it is."
Masataka smiled. Finally, he got the lead he was looking for.
"Sonken-sama, what do you think we should do with Ping-san?" Masataka asked.
Sonken stood beside Masataka and Ping gulped. He did not expect to see Son Go's queen here. She looked so different since she was dressed like a commoner. He barely recognized her.
"Let him go. I think he's been punished enough," said Sonken.
Ping jumped to his feet and got down on his hands and knees as he bowed before Sonken.
"Thank you, Sonken-sama, for your mercy! Thank you! Thank you!"
Sonken appeared uncomfortable with everyone staring.
"It's alright, Ping-san. Just try not to get into trouble again. But first, before you go, please show us this mansion."
Ping did not deny Sonken's request and he led them to the mansion.
The mansion definitely looked old and abandoned. From outside, it looked like the kind of house Masataka had seen in horror movies. It was creepy and Shuutai trembled at the sight of it. The paint on the property's perimeter wall was faded and scraped. The front yard was unkempt with long blades of grass sticking out of the thin layer of snow.
"Is this really the place?" Kannei asked Ping skeptically. It was possible that Ping might be lying, telling them what they wanted to hear so they would not keep him for interrogation. However, the boy did not seem all that foolish. Lying to a monarch was a crime which carried a severe penalty.
"Yes, it is! This is where I saw those men! This is where I found the Lockseed!" Ping insisted out of fear. Kannei's glare was terrifying.
"Alright, you're free to go. But if we find out you're lying, we will find you," Kannei warned.
Ping gulped. He bowed to them all before he ran off.
"Was it necessary to threaten him like that?" Sonken asked Kannei.
"He foolishly picked up a dangerous Lockseed that could have killed him. Best to scare him straight before he can do anything foolish again," Kannei justified.
Technically any Lockseed could be dangerous if they were misused.
"We better check the perimeter before we go in," Masataka suggested.
"I'll check it out, Zangetsu-sama," offered Shuutai and she stealthily looked around the property. As she scouted around to scan the property, she noted how quiet it was, far too quiet for her comfort. She did not see any guards but she could not help but feel as if she was being watched. She shook it off, thinking it was just her mind playing tricks on her. The place's creepy atmosphere was just getting to her. She returned to the others to report what she found, or in this case did not find. "There are no guards."
"That is strange," Sonken remarked. "If this place is so important, shouldn't there be guards?"
"Guards at a place like this would arouse suspicion. Besides, the best security is often the inconspicuous kind," Masataka replied.
"Booby traps?" Kannei asked.
"Most likely. Be on your guard and be on the lookout for anything," Masataka advised as he walked up to the front door. It was not locked and he pushed it open. There was an audible creek because of rusted hinges. "Renfa-sama, you should stay out here with Kannei. I'll go in with Shuutai."
"No, I'm coming in with you," Sonken objected.
"It might be dangerous," Masataka advised.
"Okaa-sama and Onee-sama would never run from danger, so neither will I," Sonken retorted stubbornly. As they could not waste time arguing, Masataka offered a compromise. Sonken would come inside, but she would be careful and follow his instruction. Masataka swore to Sonsaku that he would protect Sonken, even if it meant disobeying her orders.
Masataka, Shuutai, Sonken, and Kannei entered the mansion. It was pitch black inside. Shuutai was already starting to shiver, and not because of the chill. Fortunately, Masataka had his LockPhone and turned on its flashlight app. The light allowed them to see better in the dark.
Shuutai was clinging to Masataka's arm before she let go out of embarrassment. She was supposed to be his bodyguard. She could not be a scaredy cat.
There were dust and cobwebs everywhere, meaning this place had not been inhabited for a very long time. It was believed to be haunted and the spooky atmosphere supported that but Masataka did not believe in ghosts.
The four of them went further into the building and ventured into the main hall. What they found made them freeze.
"Good Heavens..."
There were plants growing everywhere, vines creeping up the walls, hugging the pillars and wrapped around the staircase. These plants were also not native to this place as Masataka and Sonken recognized the fruit growing from the vines.
These were Helheim plants with the Fruits of Helheim growing from them.
"What is this...?" Sonken's eyes were wide as she saw the plants covering every inch of the main hall.
"Someone's been growing Helheim Fruits here to manufacture Lockseeds," Masataka deduced as he took some pictures with his LockPhone as evidence.
Sonken was shocked by this. Why would anyone need to grow their own miniature Helheim Forest? They could always get the fruit straight from the source.
Masataka could see how convenient it was and how comparably safer it was to just grow them like this. The ones growing the plants would not need to worry about wild Inves trying to kill them. That just left the fruits' hypnotic allure, but they probably already thought of a way to counter it as well.
"So, what are we supposed to do?" Sonken asked.
"We purge it," Masataka answered as he strapped on his SengokuDriver, getting ready to destroy the Helheim plants. It was a short-term solution since Helheim Fruits were abundant in their native forest, but this could hamper their enemies.
Suddenly, lanterns hanging from the ceiling lit up. Shuutai shrieked in fright, believing it might be the work of ghosts.
"I'm afraid I can't let you do that."
Sonken, Shuutai, Kannei, and Masataka watched as a figure descended the stairs only to stop midway down. It was a man dressed in a red kung fu shirt with a black vest, matching pants, and brown boots. He also wore a hood with a red scarf mask that covered the lower half of his face. What surprised them was the SengokuDriver he wore around his waist. In place of the Rider Indicator was a Genesis Core.
"You have something of mine," the mystery man said as his eyes glowed. The Lockseed in Masataka's pocket floated out and flew into the mystery man's hand.
Shuutai and Kannei immediately drew their weapons as they put themselves in front of Sonken and Masataka to defend them from this stranger.
"Identify yourself!" Kannei demanded.
"Call me Saver," the mysterious man-now identified as 'Saver'-answered. "The Ultimate Salvation. You're all trespassing on my property, so I must ask that you leave."
"If we're leaving, then you're coming with us to answer a few questions," Masataka demanded.
"And what makes you think I'll go anywhere with you?" Saver questioned as he cocked an eyebrow, challenging them. Masataka took out his Melon Lockseed. It was clear that Saver wanted to do this the hard way.
"Sonken-sama, your orders?" Masataka asked as he readied himself for battle.
Sonken glared at Saver. She had seen the Helheim plants and knew what the Genesis cult planned to do with them. If this Rider could create explosive Lockseeds, then he needed to be dealt with.
"Capture him," Sonken commanded.
Saver was not intimidated and started to chuckle.
"You really think it's going to be that easy?" Saver questioned.
"You're outnumbered and outmatched here, especially with me around," Masataka answered. He had a good reason to be confident. He had faced much worse than Saver and survived. He was also in possession of the Baihu Lockseed, which allowed him access to a much higher level of power. Saver stood no chance against him.
"Oh, so you seem pretty confident," Saver retorted as he observed Masataka's arrogance. It seemed that being a Sovereign had gotten to his head. Disgusted, Saver decided it was up to him to serve the White Devil a generous helping of humble pie.
Saver tossed aside the Lockseed he took from Masataka and took out an identical one. The only difference was that it had a code: L.S.-MESSIAH. Saver also took out a Blood Orange Lockseed, holding both Lockseeds side-by-side in front of him. "Let's see if you can put your money where your mouth is."
Saver unlocked both Lockseeds simultaneously.
[ZAKURO!] [BLOOD ORANGE!]
He loaded the Lockseeds into his SengokuDriver. The Zakuro Lockseed went into the primary Drive Bay while the Blood Orange Lockseed was put in the Genesis Core. Saver locked them in.
[LOCK ON!]
"Henshin."
Saver pushed the Cutting Blade to slice them open, exposing their cores.
[HA! BLOOD ZAKURO ARMS! KURUIZAKI SACRIFICE! HA! BLOOD ORANGE ARMS! JA NO MICHI ON STAGE!]
The group watched in surprise as Saver's armor materialized. First, his Ride Wear bodysuit formed before pieces of armor appeared and fused to his body.
His Ride Wear bodysuit was black with silver armor on his limbs. His body armor was blood red and silver with the chestpiece and right pauldron resembling the armor summoned using an apple Lockseed. The left pauldron was different, hanging from his shoulder, and not spiked upwards like the right pauldron, giving the assailant an asymmetrical appearance. His helmet resembled a knight's helm that had a crown on top and the mouthplate had bloodied bandages wrapped around it. In the blood-red Rider's right hand was the Blood Daidaimaru, the signature weapon of Bujin Gaim.
This was the Armored War Devil of the Ultimate Salvation Saver.
"Since you brought along your party it's only fair that I brought out mine." Saver snapped his fingers and a group of Rinshi appeared at the foot of the stairs. They were half a dozen of them and the hopping zombies were armed with spears.
Masataka's eyes narrowed as Saver just called in backup. Shuutai and Kannei could deal with the Rinshi, and Masataka could fight Saver, but that would leave Sonken unguarded. Masataka decided he would have to handle them all on his own while Shuutai and Kannei got Sonken to safety.
"Minmei! Kannei! Get Sonken-sama out of here and leave this to me!" Masataka commanded.
"Oh, leaving so soon? You just got here," Saver commented as he watched Shuutai and Kannei lead Sonken toward the exit.
The double doors of the main hall slammed shut. Kannei and Shuutai attempted to pull the doors open but they would not budge.
Saver had just sealed their only way out.
"Now, shall we get started?" Saver asked.
Masataka glared at Saver. With no way out, they were stuck in this building with Saver until they dealt with him. Masataka looked at Sonken and made a quick decision.
"Renfa-sama, here!" Masataka said as he tossed Sonken his GenesisDriver. Her eyebrows rose as she realized what he wanted her to do. She accepted the device and put it on. He then threw her his Melon Energy Lockseed.
Saver waited patiently for his opponents to get ready. He would give them a chance to fight back before he crushed them.
This was going to be fun.
"Henshin!"
Masataka unlocked his Melon Lockseed.
[MELON!]
"Henshin!" Sonken echoed as she unlocked the Melon Energy Lockseed.
[MELON ENERGY!]
As the Armor Parts descended, Saver could barely contain himself as he trembled in anticipation.
Both Masataka and Sonken locked in their Lockseeds and activated them.
[SOIYA!]
Masataka pushed down the Cutting Blade, slicing open the Melon Lockseed. The Melon Armor Part landed on his head. His signature white Ride Wear bodysuit appeared before the armor disassembled from its melon form to fold over his body. His helmet was revealed as the Melon Defender appeared on his left arm.
[MELON ARMS! TENKA GOMEN!]
Sonken pushed in the Seaboll Compressor, splitting open the Melon Energy Lockseed.
[SODA!]
The Melon Energy Armor Part landed on her head. The Genetic Ride Wear bodysuit formed over her body before the Melon Energy Armor Part disassembled. Finally, the armor folded on her body as her helmet was revealed.
[MELON ENERGY ARMS!]
Sonken's suit when she transformed into Zangetsu-Shin sported a white black-trimmed micro mini skirt. With a splash of juice, the Sonic Arrow appeared in her right hand.
Let us dub Sonken's version of Zangetsu-Shin as Zangetsu-Jou (Queen).
Saver applauded their transformation.
"Nice! Alright! Now we can begin! Rinshi troops!" Saver shouted before he jumped off the stairs to lunge at the Go Faction. "LET'S PARTY!"
The Rinshi obeyed and went to attack the intruders who quickly defended themselves. Shuutai and Kannei engaged the Rinshi while Zangetsu blocked Saver's Blood Daidaimaru with his Melon Defender. The sword bounced off the shield as Saver was knocked back. He managed to land on his feet before he shouldered his sword while crouching down.
"Show me what you got, White Devil!" Saver challenged.
Zangetsu charged at Saver and swung, but his Musou Saber passed through as his opponent seemingly turned into mist. Zangetsu stumbled in shock, not expecting this. Saver then reappeared behind Zangetsu to slash him in the back. Zangetsu turned around and swung at Saver, but he once again disappeared only to reappear to attack Zangetsu from his blind spot.
Was that super speed? No, it looked like teleportation!
"You can't touch me!" Saver taunted before he went on the attack again. He slashed at Zangetsu, but the Ultimate Shield blocked the attack with his Melon Defender before he thrust his Musou Saber at Saver. When Zangetsu swung his Melon Defender at Saver, he teleported again, this time attacking Zangetsu from above as he aimed for his head. But before his sword hit its mark, Saver was hit by a volley of energy arrows and knocked to the ground, his armor smoking from the projectiles.
"Oh, right. I forgot about her," Saver glared at Zangetsu-Jou who had her Sonic Arrow aimed at him. She fired another shot but he teleported away again. As he reappeared behind Zangetsu-Jou, Zangetsu dashed toward Saver, going around Zangetsu-Jou to bash him with his shield.
Saver was sent staggering back by the shield tackle and was now on the defensive as Zangetsu and Zangetsu-Jou attacked him together. The blood red Rider of Salvation used his Blood Daidaimaru to parry their fierce strikes but the paired duo managed to break through his guard and slash him across the chest. Zangetsu struck Saver in the chest with the Melon Defender, sending him backpedaling. Then Zangetsu-Jou fired at Saver, knocking him onto his back.
Meanwhile, Kannei and Shuutai were up against the six Rinshi. The two bodyguards took on three each as they engaged in combat.
Kannei held her signature kukri in a reverse grip as the Rinshi attempted to spear her. She deflected their attacks before she jumped back by the following thrust. She narrowed her eyes as she went into a crouch before she darted toward the Rinshi.
The Rinshi froze up, startled, and that was all she needed. With a single swift stroke, Kannei slashed all three of the Rinshi across the neck. They stood conveniently next to each other so that one slash was all she needed to behead them.
As soon as they went down, they each burst into purple dust which piled up on the floor.
Shuutai used her long sword and used both her stature and speed to her advantage. She avoided the Rinshi as they tried to stab her with their spears. Jumping up, she kicked one in the head, sending it staggering. She then performed a backflip, landing behind another and giving it a kick in the butt, knocking it forward into the first Rinshi.
The third Rinshi took a swing at her but she squatted down before she jumped up, swinging her leg up for a swift heel kick right into its jaw. She then grabbed it by the arm and spun around and around before throwing it at its fellow Rinshi.
The three Rinshi ended up standing in a convenient row. Quick as lightning, Shuutai thrust her long sword into the Rinshi, spearing all three at once. As she withdrew her sword from the Rinshi, they all collapsed and crumbled into purple dust, dead once again.
Saver flipped to his feet as Zangetsu sped toward him and swung his Musou Saber. Saver quickly sidestepped the oncoming slash but was then hit by an energy arrow from Zangetsu-Jou. Saver sprinted at Zangetsu-Jou to retaliate, deflecting the energy arrows with his sword. Zangetsu hurled his shield at Saver. Saver ducked under the shield but it returned and hit him right in the back before returning to Zangetsu who charged at Saver.
As he recovered from the boomerang shield attack, Saver jumped back to avoid Zangetsu's blade. Saver then dodged another swing before delivering a kick to Zangetsu's stomach. Zangetsu recovered quickly before he attempted to land a slash, but he was blocked by Saver's sword. Sparks flew as they furiously exchanged blows.
Zangetsu-Jou's eyes narrowed as she waited for an opening. She reached down and gripped the Seaboll Compressor to push it against the Melon Energy Lockseed.
[MELON ENERGY SQUASH!]
Zangetsu-Jou aimed the Sonic Arrow at the ceiling and pulled the bowstring as the tip of the weapon glowed from siphoning the Energy Lockseed. She waited a few seconds before she let go of the bowstring. A flurry of energy arrows shot at the ceiling and suddenly changed the angle of their trajectory to rain down on Saver.
Saver broke away from Zangetsu as he was buffeted by the energy arrows, sparks bursting rapidly with each hit. Seeing as his opponent was weakened, Zangetsu hit his Cutting Blade.
[SOIYA! MELON SQUASH!]
Zangetsu's Musou Saber and Melon Defender glowed with green energy as he advanced on Saver to deliver devastating slashes with both weapons. Saver screamed as he backpedaled, energy bursting violently from his body as he took damage from Zangetsu's attack.
"Is that all you got!?" Saver goaded as he stood unsteadily on his feet. Despite taking direct hits from two finishers in succession, Saver did not go down, nor did his armor disappear. He was clearly injured but he still endured.
Zangetsu charged at him and Saver raised his Blood Daidaimaru to take a hit from Zangetsu's Musou Saber which shoved him against the wall. As he was pinned by Zangetsu, Saver saw that his Rinshi had been destroyed. Now, he was on his own and at Zangetsu's mercy.
With Saver subdued, Sonken closed the Melon Energy Lockseed, disengaging the armor. What a rush! She never knew what it was like fighting as an Armored War God, but she had just experienced it and it was exhilarating. While in the suit, she felt stronger, faster, and capable of doing anything. While fighting alongside Masataka, she did not doubt their victory. Against the two of them, Saver stood no chance, even with his tricks.
"Looks like you win," Saver grunted. "So, as the victor, do you have any demands?"
"First, you're going to unseal the exit. Then, you're going to come with us to tell us who you are and what you're planning," Zangetsu demanded, pushing Saver against the wall. Zangetsu wanted to know who was hiding behind that mask.
Even with his back up against the wall like this, Saver did not seem the least bit intimidated. There was no tremble in his voice as he spoke.
"You won, so you deserve a prize. I can let you out, no problem. As for what I want, well, you'll just have to wait and see. And as for my secret identity, oh, you know me. In fact, you've known me your entire life," Saver answered cryptically.
"What?" Zangetsu questioned, puzzled. What did Saver mean?
That was when Saver revealed that he had a second weapon available when a black Sonic Arrow appeared in his left hand. Zangetsu was taken by surprise as Saver slashed him across the stomach, pushing him off as he broke free.
Taking aim, Saver fired his black Sonic Arrow, dubbed the Saver Arrow, at Zangetsu. Zangetsu raised his shield to block the energy projectiles, deflecting them away from Sonken, Kannei, and Shuutai. Saver then started teleporting around, firing a shot each time. Kannei and Shuutai covered Sonken while Zangetsu used his accelerated reflexes along with his shield to bounce the arrows away.
Finally, Saver teleported to the ceiling. He had his feet firmly planted on the ceiling, his soles somehow adhering to the surface as he hung upside down like a bat. Saver fired at Zangetsu repeatedly from his new perch, sending a volley of energy arrows at him. Zangetsu blocked all of them, shielding himself and his comrades.
Seeing as he could not hit Zangetsu, Saver ceased fire.
"Guess it's time to ditch this party! But first, here some parting gifts!" Saver yelled out.
The Go Faction soon heard beeping that started to grow louder and faster. Zangetsu scanned the main hall and saw multiple blinking red lights. He realized that there were Zakuro Lockseeds planted all around them and Saver had just set them to self-destruct.
Zangetsu could not get Shuutai, Kannei, and Sonken out of the mansion in time, especially with their only exit blocked by Saver.
But there was one thing Zangetsu could do.
"Stick close to me!" Zangetsu shouted. He gathered the girls up to stand close to him and he hit his Cutting Blade three times.
[SOIYA! MELON SPARKING!]
"Brace yourselves!" Zangetsu yelled. His Melon Defender glowed and he raised it above his head just as the Zakuro Lockseeds detonated. The mansion exploded. Fire burst from within as its walls and roof came crumbling down to pieces.
KRC: OK, so I notice that this fics' review count has been pretty low. It's disappointing, but I guess after the bad review I've been getting it was about time. I wish I could get more reviews, but then again we can't always get what we want. At this point, it's about finishing the story. Besides, I think as a writer who does this for free, my own personal approval is the most important. I love to write and I'm sharing a story. That's why I do this.
Now, this is a follow-up from the previous chapter. In this chapter, Masataka goes to investigate the incident and finds clues. We are reintroduced to Saver, who reveals he has plans for Son Go. What those plans might be, they cannot be good. Also, it seems Shuyu has some conflicted feelings she needs to deal with.
Now, a callback to previous seasons. Sonken was there during the gold rush and final battle in "Destiny of the Armored War Gods" as well as the battle against Chojo during "Alliance of the Armored War Gods". So, unlike her counterpart in the first VN, Sonken is a trained fighter whose skills have improved with experience. That is why she is capable of fighting using the Zangetsu-Shin armor.
Fruits of the Tree, Yggdrasil
Blood Zakuro Arms: This Arms Armor is summoned through the Blood Zakuro Lockseed (L.S.-MESSIAH) and augmented by the Blood Orange Lockseed in the Genesis Core, which would account for the asymmetrical design. The wearer of the Blood Zakuro Arms is armed with both the Saver Arrow and Blood Daidaimaru.
Weapons: Blood Daidaimaru and Saver Arrow. The Blood Daidaimaru is used as a standard melee weapon. When fully charged, it can unleash energy slashes. The Saver Arrow is a black Sonic Arrow that can be used as a ranged weapon and melee weapon with its sharpened edges.
Saver stood outside of the property as he witnessed its destruction. He had teleported just before the Zakuro Lockseeds detonated. That blast should've killed Zangetsu and his female comrades, leaving no survivors. However, Saver knew better than to think that Zangetsu would be killed so easily. After all, he had survived much worse like a cat with nine lives.
It was a shame to destroy the place where they were growing Helheim Fruits to produce the explosive Zakuro Lockseeds, but sometimes sacrifices needed to be made and Saver needed to cover his tracks. Besides, this was just a small setback. Saver would still accomplish his goal in the end.
Saver spared the wreckage one last looked before he dissolved into a red mist that faded into the air.
As the dust settled, a green dome of energy in the shape of a melon was revealed standing in the middle of the destroyed mansion. Zangetsu managed to erect it just in time to save them, shielding Shuutai, Kannei, Sonken and himself from the explosion.
The miniature Helheim Forest that was growing inside the mansion was now gone, which meant that Zangetsu had lost an important piece of evidence. At least the Armored War Devils had lost this location. However, according to Ping, the cultists were transporting a dangerously large amount of explosive Zakuro Lockseeds.
Whatever the cultists planned to do with those Lockseeds, it could not be for anything good.
The Go Faction was short on time. If they did not locate those Zakuro Lockseeds, then Son Go was truly in danger.
Zangetsu thought back to what Saver told him. Saver claimed that they knew each other. In fact, Saver claimed that Zangetsu had known him his whole life.
Who was Armored War Devil Saver of the Ultimate Salvation?
