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: Destiny of the Armored War Gods
Co-Written By: Ten-Faced Paladin and Kamen Rider Chrome
Chapter 10: The First Stage of the Tournament
Before the tournament could commence, the Armored War Gods were gathered in the hall from earlier. Hideyoshi was going to explain a few extra rules placed in the tournament.
"OK, before we can start the tournament, I need to explain a few things first," Hideyoshi informed the Armored War Gods.
"What's to explain? We're here to fight and win," remarked Mitsuki uncaringly. It sounded simple enough to him.
"It's not that simple. You see, all matches will be done in Safe Mode," Hideyoshi told them, earning looks of confusion.
"Safe Mode?" Haru repeated.
"Safe Mode," Kenshin affirmed.
"What the hell is Safe Mode?" demanded Mitsuki.
"It's a barrier," Hideyoshi answered.
"Like in the Inves Games?" questioned Masataka. During Inves Games and tests alike a barrier would automatically rise and surround the Inves to prevent them from hurting the players and spectators.
"Exactly," Hideyoshi confirmed. "We were helping Yue-hime organize the event. One of the concerns she had was the safety of the audience. I mean, I don't have to mention that our finishers and weapons can be pretty dangerous and destructive. Even Ryugen uses a gun and a stray bullet would be pretty bad."
"I guess that makes sense," admitted Iori.
"So, basically, Safe Mode prevents the audience from getting hurt while we battle," Marcus concluded.
"Precisely. We're here to fight each other, not hurt innocent bystanders," Hideyoshi replied.
"So, how sturdy is the barrier?" Nagata asked.
"Pretty sturdy. I mean, Kenshin and I tested it out ourselves," Hideyoshi answered. All they did was engage it and start bashing the walls with all their might. The barrier's walls could take a hit and would only disengage once one of them had cancelled their transformation.
"And how do we get this Safe Mode to work?" asked Marcus.
"All combatants must agree to the condition to use Safe Mode. The Lockseeds will do the rest."
"I guess I can agree to that," Mitsuki remarked. While he enjoyed violence, hurting bystanders not involved in the fight left a bitter taste in his mouth. Besides, this Safe Mode barrier might make things interesting as it would prevent his opponents from running. He didn't expect any of them to flee, though. Their pride was at stake.
Nagata agreed, "I got no problem with it."
"Neither do I," Iori added.
"Pas de problème," Marcus nodded.
"I got no issue with it," shrugged Haru.
"It's a wise idea," spoke Masataka.
"Good, now that we have that settled, it's time you got ready," instructed Hideyoshi as he clapped his hands and smiled.
The competitors were given preparation rooms provided for them by the tournament organizers, the organizers being Totaku and her retainers. They would be able to rest, eat, and even strategize between matches in these rooms.
The first match was due to begin soon and Nagata was in one of the prep rooms with his friends. Their room was the one marked with the sign 'Shoku' and inside he was getting ready for his match against Knuckle.
"So, your opponent is Knuckle-dono again," spoke Kanu.
"Looks like it," Nagata shrugged.
"So, do you think you will be able to beat him?" Ryuubi asked.
"Of course Nagata-niichan can beat him! Nagata-niichan is the strongest!" Chouhi boasted, confident in Nagata's strength.
"Nagata-niichan will win!" agreed Riri, beaming. Nagata smiled, appreciating the support, especially from two cute little girls.
"Thanks, but you need to remember that Knuckle already knows how I fight. I also bet he's been training since then and he's only gotten stronger," Nagata stated.
"You've been training as well," Kanu reminded.
"Yeah, but I also had paperwork to do, not to mention training the men. I had to manage my time as Governor of Shoku after all," argued Nagata. "Knuckle doesn't have the kind of responsibilities I have, so he got a lot of time to train. More time than me. Also, he could've gotten some new Lockseeds since we last fought."
"So, what's the plan?" Iori asked.
"Take him by surprise," said Nagata with a smile.
The En Faction were in their room and Haru was doing shadow boxing exercises while Ensho spoke.
"Remember, Darling. You must win for the glory of the En family!" encouraged Ensho.
"Don't worry, Reiha-chan," spoke Haru confidently. "I've trained myself for this day." He punched his open palm eagerly.
"Yeah, but Gaim isn't a weakling. Haven't you heard about the forms he can use?" Bunshu questioned.
"I've heard he has forms for all sorts of situations. Forms strong enough to topple mountains, outspeed the fastest of horses, and even fly!" spoke Ganryo.
"Iishe, Toshi, do you doubt Haru-sama's strength?" Ensho questioned, eyes narrowed at her two retainers critically.
"No, no, Reiha-sama!" both girls shook their heads.
"Haru-sama will win, I'm sure of it!" Ensho declared confidently.
"I'll do my best, Reiha-chan. I'll beat Gaim," swore Haru. There was a knock at the door and it opened as a servant called them for the match. "And that's my cue."
A maid stood in the middle of the arena holding up a sign with the words: Gaim VS Knuckle. The audience waited in anticipations for the competitors. Nagata and Haru's factions took their seats in special VIP seats marked with their faction symbols. These VIP seats gave them a good view of all the action.
"Alright, ladies and gentlemen!" announced the MC. "Now entering the arena are our competitors!" Cheers erupted from the audience.
"Who do you think will win?" Sousou asked Mitsuki as she sat with her officers.
"Gaim," answered Mitsuki with absolute certainty.
"Oh, and why's that?" she questioned curiously.
"Because I want to fight him so he better win," he answered firmly.
"I see. He is your rival. You have no doubt he'll win," Sousou smirked. A rival was good to motivate oneself. Mitsuki hadn't found a worthy rival until he met Gaim.
"Allow me to introduce our fighters! Hailing from the Shoku Province which he has united under his banner, he came to this land as one of the prophesied Messengers of Heaven! He is known as the Ultimate Sword, the Swift Warrior, the Guardian of Shoku and the Blue King! The Governor of Shoku himself! Everyone, he is Armored War God Gaim, Nagata Oda!"
Cheers erupted from the audience as Nagata waved, a bit embarrassed by the attention. During kendo matches back home, he hadn't received this sort of attention so it was rather new to him.
"And next, hailing from Kei and engaged to Ensho-sama, also one of the prophesied Messengers of Heaven! He is known as the Ultimate Fist, the Iron Fisted Warrior and the Fists of Justice! He is Armored War God Knuckle, Haru Hattori!"
"What's up, everyone? You ready for some action?" Haru raised his fists as he took in their cheers. "Thank you! Thank you!"
"You like this attention, don't you?" questioned Nagata.
"What can I say? It's nice to be appreciated," Haru smiled at Nagata.
"Can't argue with that."
"Anyway, nothing personal, but this time I'm gonna win." Haru took out his Kurumi Lockseed.
"We'll see," Nagata shrugged as he grasped his Orange Lockseed. "Let's do this. Engaging Safe Mode!"
"Safe Mode On!" Haru agreed.
"Henshin!" the two called out as they unlocked their Lockseeds.
[ORANGE!]
[KURUMI!]
Immediately, the Safe Mode protocols were engaged, creating a barrier which rose up around the arena to shield the audience while confining the Riders within. Whatever happened within the barrier would stay within the confines of the barrier. The Helheim portals also opened, releasing the descending Armor Parts over them.
[LOCK ON!]
[SOIYA! ORANGE ARMS! HANAMICHI ON STAGE!]
[KURUMI ARMS! MISTER KNUCKLEMAN!]
The Armor Parts dropped, landing on their heads to form the Pre-Arms suits before disassembling and folding onto their bodies to form their Arms Armor.
"Armored War God Gaim! Arriving on Stage!"
"Armored War God Knuckle! Sanjou!"
Up where the To Faction sat, Ryofu suddenly turned up to take her seat. Earlier, she had stated that she would be keeping Chinkyuu company since the little strategist had refused to come and watch any of the matches.
"Hey, Ren-chan. I'm surprised Nenene let you come and watch," Kenshin remarked, completely not expecting Ryofu to join them.
"Chouchou and Sekito are with her. Keeping her company," Ryofu informed them.
"Well, you haven't missed much. The first match is just starting," Kenshin told her. "Just sit and enjoy." Ryofu nodded and turned her gaze towards the arena, her eyes focused on Gaim. Just looking at him made her cheeks turn pink.
Knuckle pounded his Kurumi Bombers together and held his right fist out. Gaim recognized the gesture so he pounded his own fist against Knuckle's outstretched one. Knuckle hopped on his feet and punched the air a few times as Gaim stretched.
"Now, the rules are simple! A competitor will lose if he is knocked unconscious, unable to continue, forfeit, or have their armor destroyed!" the MC read the rules.
"Oh, I see," nodded Kanu. Those were the rules. Pretty simple.
"Fighters ready?" the MC called and then the gong rang. "BEGIN!"
Knuckle heard the gong and took it as the signal to begin his offensive. He charged at Gaim with his right fist drawn back to land a strike. Gaim waited for Knuckle to get in close before catching the Kurumi Bomber with both hands. He wrestled with the appendage before he shoved it aside so he could land a kick to Knuckle's unprotected chest. Unfortunately, Knuckle didn't budge from the strike. He knocked down Gaim's leg and landed a 1-2 combo into Gaim's chest, knocking him back painfully.
"Ugh!" Gaim grunted as he was sent staggering back. Knuckle charged with a jab which Gaim blocked but Knuckle followed up with an uppercut. Fortunately, Gaim managed to avoid the strike. However, Knuckle continued his assault, forcing Gaim to dodge.
"It looks like Knuckle-sama has gotten Gaim-sama on the run. The Armored War God of Kei is not holding back at all, forcing the Armored War God of Shoku on the defensive. Gaim-sama managed to land a hit earlier, but it did nothing against Knuckle-sama's armored body!" the MC announced.
Chouhi cheered, "Come on, Nagata-niichan!"
Ensho cheered out, "Take him down, my darling!"
Knuckle threw a right hook but Gaim ducked under the swing and landed a palm strike to Knuckle's stomach. Regaining his footing, Knuckle resumed his attack on Gaim. However, Gaim wasn't going to allow himself to be beaten. Thanks to Kanu and the girls, he had gotten stronger and wiser regarding matters of combat. As Knuckle continued to take swings at him, Gaim bobbed and weaved to avoid them. Unknown to Knuckle, Gaim was trying to buy himself some time to find an opening.
He spotted the opening and threw a punch, landing a right hook in Knuckle's chin. Knuckle was knocked back by the blow and shook his head. Knuckle charged once more and Gaim charged right back. He ducked under a punch and then threw several punches at the Kurumi Rider which sent him staggering. The Samurai Rider then jumped and performed a roundhouse kick that nailed Knuckle in the head, sending him tumbling to the ground.
Gaim thought to himself, 'Remember to thank the girls for their hand-to-hand combat training.'
Knuckle recovered and returned to his feet, "Nice hit but why haven't you drawn your weapons?"
Gaim shrugged, "Figured I make this fair and on an equal playing field. You only got those big boxing gloves."
Knuckle agreed, "Yeah, but they pack a punch. Come on, man! I wanted to fight you at your best like the last time! Show me what ya got!"
Gaim smirked as he grabbed a Lockseed and clicked it to unlock, "OK, then. Remember, you asked for it."
[PAPAYA!]
Knuckle gawked at the sight of the familiar Papaya Lockseed, "Wait, isn't that the one you got from me?"
Gaim locked it into his SengokuDriver and replied, "Glad you remember." He then pressed the Cutting Blade to slice it open.
[SOIYA! PAPAYA ARMS! CHOP AND HACK! NEVER LOOK BACK!]
The Orange Arms vanished as the Papaya Arms Armor Part fell on top of Gaim before opening up and folding onto his body to form the Papaya Arms armor. A splash of papaya juice-like energy summoned the Papaya Chopper into his hands.
"Oi-ryah!" Gaim swung and hit Knuckle across the chest with the Papaya Chopper's blade, sending Knuckle tumbling to the arena floor.
"Haru-sama!" cried out Ensho in horror.
"Hmph, he should've done that earlier," commented Mitsuki.
"Amazing!" announced the MC, "Gaim-sama has just changed armors and now the roles seem to have been reversed! Clearly, this looks like Gaim-sama's victory!"
Knuckle chuckled as he got up and pounded his fists together, "Now this is what I'm talking about! BRING IT ON GAIM!"
Complying, Gaim swung the Papaya Chopper down but Knuckle jumped to the side to avoid it. Gaim then performed a 360 degree spin, dragging the weapon along the ground before raising it to strike. Knuckle jumped back to avoid the strike as pieces of the arena flew off.
Ensho demanded, "What is he doing out there!?"
Ganryo observed, "I think he's enjoying himself."
Bunshu agreed, "He does enjoy a good fight."
Knuckle spoke to Gaim, "You're making me break out in a sweat here, man."
Gaim replied, "Yes, but you're pretty swift. Haven't been able to land another hit on you yet."
"Just trying to see what you can do, but now that I have it's time to break out my secret weapon."
"Secret weapon?" Gaim repeated.
Knuckle's Kurumi Bombers vanished, allowing him to grab a new Lockseed. It was of course silver over the body, but the front had a round brown centre that had black lines decorating it with a silver band that ran down the centre. It was branded in the middle with black lettering and numbers, marking it as L.S.-24. Knuckle unlocked it.
[COCONUT!]
"Huh? Coconut?" Gaim gawked as the zipper portal opened and a round, Coconut Arms Armor Part hovered above Knuckle. The Armor Part was of course deep brown, but perfectly round and with the sides being gilded armor, looking almost like scales with a silver studded band running along the middle.
Knuckle locked the Coconut Lockseed into his SengokuDriver after removing the Kurumi Lockseed.
[LOCK ON!]
The Cutting Blade came down to reveal the Lockseed's core. The core was white and the lid's backside had a pair of deep brown gauntlets crossed over each other in the centre.
[COCONUT ARMS! HEAVY DUTY MUSCLEMAN!]
As the Kurumi Arms vanished, the Coconut Arms landed on Knuckle and opened up, dropping the sides onto his shoulders with the sides straightening out like on the Pine Arms, leaving thick curved shoulder plating. The front folded together, forming a chestplate that looked like pectorals with the silver band running between them. Knuckle's eyes turned a milky white while coconut milk splashed and formed his new gauntlets. They were shaped like large fists, the fingers made of silver steel with studded knuckles, but they weren't as big as his previous weapons. The arms of the gauntlets were dark brown and wrapped around his arms up to his elbows, with a silver circle at the ends. The gauntlets were called the Coco Boxers.
"That's it?" asked Gaim. Although differently shaped, the Coco Boxers didn't seem any different from the Kurumi Bombers.
"Oh, there's more!" Knuckle grinned. Lifting his arms up, there was a hiss as the silver circles on the gauntlets extended, revealing them to be pistons. Knuckle then smashed both his fists down on the arena floor and the shockwave that was produced sped towards Gaim. Gaim yelped as he was pushed back until he reached the end of the arena.
"Whoa! Whoa!" Gaim tried to regain his balance but then sighed a breath of relief. He then saw Knuckle coming at him with a hissing Coco Boxer that had the piston extended. "Yikes!" He quickly stepped out of the way before he got hit in the face.
"The power output is way higher compared to my Kurumi Arms," boasted Knuckle. "It ain't an A-Class Lockseed for nothing!"
"Right!" said Gaim. Even though they looked like a repaint of the Kurumi Bombers, the difference in power was astonishing.
"So, now we can really enjoy this fight!"
"Bring it!" Gaim charged and swung the Papaya Chopper but Knuckle blocked it with his Coco Boxers before landing a hit to Gaim's chest. Gaim grunted from the strike but managed to endure and recover before he swung and hit Knuckle in the chest with the blade. Knuckle retaliated with a right cross but Gaim ducked only to receive a jab in the stomach that caused him to double over. Knuckle kneed him in the face and prepared to land another hit but Gaim managed to shove Knuckle back with the Papaya Chopper's shaft.
As the fight continued, sparks flew as strikes landed with neither competitor letting up. It got the audience to scream wildly at the action taking place before them.
Gaim swung his Papaya Chopper but Knuckle caught the shaft under his arm to stop it. "Hah! Got it!" said Knuckle triumphantly.
"Do you?" Gaim then used all his strength to lift the Papaya Chopper along with Knuckle. He then spun his Papaya Chopper above his head, taking Knuckle for a spin.
"Whoa! UUUHHHHH!" Knuckle tried to hold on tight to the Papaya Chopper but Gaim decided to swing the Papaya Chopper around, causing Knuckle to let go. "AAAHHH!" Knuckle landed roughly on the arena floor, dizzy from his spin.
"Chance!" Gaim declared as he pushed his Cutting Blade down twice over the Papaya Lockseed.
[SOIYA! PAPAYA AU LAIT!]
Gaim twirled the Papaya Chopper above his head as a projection of a giant papaya appeared over the blade. He then swung, hitting Knuckle with it and causing an explosive splash effect. Then, he charged and landed a critical strike that caused a fiery explosion.
"NO! DARLING!" Ensho screamed.
Haru tumbled out of the explosion, his armor gone, and his Coconut Lockseed ejected from his SengokuDriver.
"Yosha!" Gaim pumped his fist in victory as the gong rang.
"THE WINNER IS ARMORED WAR GOD GAIM!" the MC declared loudly.
Ryofu smiled, satisfied by the results of the match and stood up. She then walked away to keep Chinkyuu company again. She had only come to see Gaim fight.
Nagata deactivated his armor and walked over to Haru to help him up, "You OK?"
"Yeah, nothing permanent," Haru groaned. "Guess I still have a way to go before I beat you in a fight, huh?"
"Well, you didn't do too badly," Nagata shrugged.
"I guess you wanted to win more than I did," Haru chuckled and groaned, still sore.
"Come on, let's get you back to your fiancée," Nagata replied as he helped Haru over to the En Faction's seats. "I still can't believe you agreed to be engaged to her."
"Reiha-chan's not so bad once you get to know her."
"Told you he would win," Mitsuki smirked at Sousou.
"Indeed," Sousou agreed.
"And looks like I'm fighting next," Mitsuki stated.
"And your opponent is Kurokage," Sousou read.
"It'll be an easy win," Mitsuki boasted as he got up to participate in his match.
Where the To Faction was watching, Kenshin got up from his seat and smiled, "Well, looks like it's my turn."
"Be careful, Kenshin. Baron isn't going to hold back," Hideyoshi warned.
"Oh, don't you worry, Hideyoshi. With my new Lockseed, I should be able to handle him," boasted Kenshin confidently.
"Overconfidence could lead to your downfall, Kenshin-dono," cautioned Kaku.
"OK, I'll be careful, but I'm still gonna win this. You'll see."
"Just do your best, Kenshin-kun," encouraged Totaku.
"I'm already the best," grinned Kenshin as he left to head over to the arena.
"He doesn't stand much of a chance, does he?" Kaku asked Hideyoshi.
"With his default Arms, he might be able to last only a few minutes against Baron who uses a much higher class of Lockseed. Though, considering the fact that Kenshin has a few new Lockseeds himself, he might stand a chance," said Hideyoshi honestly. "It all comes down to a matter of skill and motivation."
"And what motivates Baron?" Kaku asked.
"The chance to go all out against his enemies and destroy them," Hideyoshi answered.
Nagata returned to his friends to watch the next match with them.
"You did wonderfully, Gaim-sama!" Ryuubi praised.
"As expected of Onii-chan!" Chouhi patted Nagata on the back.
"Nagata-niichan is strong," Riri added.
"Thanks, girls," Nagata blushed under the praise.
"How are you feeling?" Iori asked Nagata.
"Haru hits really hard. That Coconut Lockseed really surprised me," Nagata answered as he rubbed his chest.
"Yes, but you still managed to pull off a win."
"You managed to defeat your opponent, Nagata-sama," agreed Kanu. "However, your next opponent will be determined by the results of the next match."
"I know, Aisha," nodded Nagata. The next match was between Baron and Kurokage. Both Mitsuki and Kenshin stood on the arena floor, glaring at each other.
"Alright, ladies and gentlemen!" the MC announced. "If you're already feeling pumped after our first match, our second match will definitely get you super excited because our next two fighters are the spearmen of the Armored War Gods!"
"Prepare to lose," Kenshin challenged only for Mitsuki to scoff. "What was that!?"
"Hailing from Sou Gi and serving under the Warlord Sousou Motoku is the Crimson Enforcer General himself! He is Armored War God Baron of the Ultimate Spear!" the MC announced and cheers erupted from the crowd. Mitsuki smirked. "Also, one of Totaku's own imperial bodyguards! He is the Ultimate Cutter and the Black Imperial Spear! Everyone, let me introduce you to Armored War God Kurokage!"
"That's me!" Kenshin raised his fist. "And I'm going to win this match!" he boasted.
"There he goes, counting his chickens before they hatch," Hideyoshi sighed. Both Mitsuki and Kenshin took out their Lockseeds and unlocked them while engaging Safe Mode.
"Henshin!"
[MATSUBOKKURI!]
[BANANA!]
The spectators watched in anticipations as the portals zipped open and the Armor Parts descended above their respective summoners. Kenshin and Mitsuki placed their Lockseeds into their SengokuDrivers and locked them in.
[LOCK ON!]
Their standby music played before they pushed down their Cutting Blades to open their Lockseeds and initiate their transformations as the Armor Parts dropped on them, forming the Pre-Arms suits.
[SOIYA! MATSUBOKKURI ARMS! ICHIGEKI IN THE SHADOW!]
[COME ON! BANANA ARMS! KNIGHT OF SPEAR!]
The Armor Parts opened and folded onto their bodies to form their armors as the Safe Mode barrier rose up. Then, their weapons formed. Baron brandished the Banaspear and Kurokage wielded the Kagematsu.
"Armored War God Baron! Advancing!"
"Armored War God Kurokage! Ready to Strike!"
The MC spoke, "Fighters ready? Alright, begin!" The gong rang, beginning the match.
"HAAHH!" Kurokage rushed towards Baron and readied his Kagematsu to strike. Unfortunately for him, Baron sidestepped from the attack, causing Kurokage to dash past him. Before he could react, Baron kicked his rear, causing him to stumble awkwardly. Once he regained his balance, Kurokage spun to glare at Baron.
Baron taunted, "Is that it?" Kurokage swung at Baron only for the Crimson Enforcer to block the strike. He tried again and got blocked once more. He aimed at Baron's chest, only for Baron to catch his Kagematsu and slap it aside.
Beginning to grow frustrated, Kurokage attacked once more, thrusting his Kagematsu repeatedly at Baron. Baron dodged the thrusts with ease, his body moving in a relaxed manner. Kurokage was telegraphing his moves, allowing Baron to predict and dodge them without effort. Hideyoshi, who was watching this, palmed his face.
"This matchup was the worst for him," Hideyoshi remarked.
"Have faith in your friend, Hideyoshi-kun," smiled Totaku serenely.
"Hai, Yue-hime."
"What is he doing?" Juniku asked. "Mitsuki should've beaten his opponent by now."
"Can't you see, Keifa? He's playing around with his prey before he decides to finish him off," explained Sousou. "Do you doubt his victory?"
"Considering how he always aims for it, I do not. If you have faith in him then so do I." She heard the Kako Sisters shouting out words of encouragement.
Baron grew bored with dodging and decided to retaliate, "My turn." Baron quickly took action and smacked the spear away as it came close to his face. He then thrust his Banaspear repeatedly at Kurokage, hitting him several times in quick succession. Sparks flew with each blow and Kurokage cried out in pain.
Kurokage yelled, "Ow! Ow! Stop that!" Baron complied and swept Kurokage off his feet with the Banaspear. As he got back to his feet, Baron quickly swung his weapon across Kurokage's chest, sending the black Armored War God reeling.
Baron stated coldly, "You stand no chance against me. Give up before you get hurt." The Banana Lockseed was an A-Rank Lockseed while the Matsubokkuri Lockseed was a C-Rank one. The gap between them was already huge.
"Don't think you've won already, asshole!" Kurokage shot back as he activated his new Lockseed.
[TOMATO!]
"Tomato?" repeated Iori and Nagata as the Tomato Arms Armor Part descended from the portal, bright red with a green stem on top.
"Isn't that a vegetable?" Nagata questioned.
"No, technically it's a fruit," Iori replied.
Kurokage quickly switched Lockseeds and used the Cutting Blade to cut the Tomato Lockseed open. The core resembled the inside of a tomato and the lid's backside depicted a unique polearm.
[LOCK ON! SOIYA! TOMATO ARMS! MAIRU, INTO THE BATTLEFIELD!]
The Tomato Arms descended upon Kurokage as his Matsubokkuri Arms vanished. The Tomato Arms Armor Part resembled the Orange Arms Armor Part except it lacked the studs. The armor folded onto his Pre-Arms suit like Gaim's but the weapon he was given was a naginata with a tomato slice-shaped blade at the end that resembled the Daidaimaru's blade. It was called the Tomaspear. His visor was now red and resembled a tomato slice. Unlike the Orange Arms which was made for balance, the Tomato Arms was made for swiftness.
"A new Lockseed?" asked Baron, interested to see what this new Arms of Kurokage could do.
"Hideyoshi and I spent a lot of time in Helheim harvesting them!" Kurokage informed him.
"Would've been easier to come to Go to buy them," commented Masataka. They had a lot of A-Class Lockseeds for sale. They were really expensive though, but someone in Kurokage's position should be able to afford them.
Kurokage charged and swung his Tomaspear at Baron who just sidestepped the swing before raising his Banaspear to parry a blow meant for his head. He then pushed back and kicked Kurokage in the stomach. Kurokage recovered and swung, hitting Baron across the chest.
"At first I saw you as a pest I could crush," Baron growled as he got serious. "Now I see you as an obstacle to destroy!" Baron lunged at Kurokage and knocked him back with a violent thrust of the Banaspear. Sparks erupted from the impact point as Kurokage was pushed back.
"Che, then I got no choice!" Kurokage took out two Lockseeds and then unlocked them. A pair of portals zipped open and an Elementary Inves dropped from each, both at full size.
"Can't fight me alone so you summoned your pets?" sneered Baron. Kurokage locked the Lockseeds, closing the portals.
"Get him!" Kurokage ordered. The Elementary Inves attacked Baron together, forcing the Crimson Enforcer to deal with them.
"Isn't that cheating?" Ryuubi asked as she watched Kurokage summon the Inves to attack Baron.
"Our Lockseeds are part of our arsenal, so I guess this is legal," said Nagata.
"A good strategy," nodded Iori.
"Didn't know he was going to do that," Hideyoshi said, honestly astounded by Kurokage's quick thinking.
[COME ON! BANANA SQUASH!]
Baron thrust forward, destroying the Elementary Inves in front of him with a giant banana projection before he twirled his Banaspear around to run the Elementary Inves behind him with another projection. Finally he spun, striking both Inves before they exploded.
He then charged at Kurokage and clashed with him as Kurokage raised his Tomaspear, only to be forced to his knees. Baron kicked him backwards and sent him tumbling.
"You've actually been a pretty good opponent. However, it's time we finished this," admitted Baron.
"Yes, let's!" agreed Kurokage as he unlocked his Kuri Lockseed.
[KURI!]
He got up and replaced his Tomato Lockseed with his Kuri Lockseed.
[LOCK ON! SOIYA! KURI ARMS! BA-DA-BOOM!]
"Fire in the hole!" Kurokage threw his Kuri Caltrops at Baron who had to dodge. The Kuri Caltrops landed on the arena floor and exploded, causing Baron to recoil. Baron sprinted, dodging the Kuri Caltrops which exploded as Kurokage threw them. Kurokage grinned. He had Baron on the run. All he had to do was wait for the right time to finish him off.
"You're mine now!" Kurokage declared as he tossed the Kuri Caltrops up and hit his belt's Cutting Blade twice.
[SOIYA! KURI AU LAIT!]
The Kuri Caltrops dropped and Kurokage gave them both a kick to send them rocketing towards Baron. However, Baron didn't seem surprised or frightened as the spiked bombs came flying towards him. Instead, he pressed down on his Cutting Blade, twice.
[COME ON! BANANA AU LAIT!]
He gripped his Banaspear like a baseball bat, the energy around it forming into a giant banana, and swung. He hit the Kuri Caltrops and sent them flying back towards Kurokage, much to the Black General's shock.
"Oh no! No, no, no, no, no!" Kurokage screamed as he turned to run, only he couldn't get far quickly enough and was hit by his own explosives.
BA-DA-BOOM!
Hideyoshi and Kaku both facepalmed in dismay as Totaku covered her mouth as she gasped. As the smoke cleared, Kenshin was revealed lying on the arena floor, unconscious and covered in soot. His eyes were swirly as he coughed up some smoke.
"Wow..." Nagata responded eloquently as he blinked. He thought stuff like that only happened in cartoons.
"THE MATCH IS OVER! BARON IS THE WINNER!" the MC declared and cheers erupted from the crowd.
The medics went and carried Kenshin off the arena as Mitsuki turned off his transformation and stepped off the arena to return to the Gi Faction. Overall, it hadn't been his best fight but it certainly wasn't his worst. Kurokage had potential. He was just lacking in a few areas.
"Kenshin-kun lost..." uttered Totaku sadly.
"What an embarrassment..." groaned Kaku.
"He just got overly confident," sighed Hideyoshi in disappointment.
"He didn't do too badly," Kayu defended.
"True. He decided to use tactics by summoning Inves, but even that wasn't enough against Baron."
"Hey, isn't your match next?" Kayu asked.
"Oh, yeah," recalled Hideyoshi.
"Good luck, Hideyoshi-kun," wished Totaku.
"Thank you, Yue-hime," he replied with a smile.
"After an exciting second match, we come to the third match! Allow me to introduce our fighters! From Son Go, he is known as both the Ultimate Shield and also the White Devil of Go who defends the Son Clan! He is Armored War God Zangetsu!"
Masataka waved at the audience and at the Son Clan. Sonshoko cheered for him loudly.
"And his opponent is one of the Imperial Advisors! He is known as the Ultimate Hammer and also the Imperial Hammer-Wielding Warrior! He is Armored War God Gridon!"
"So, my opponent is a fellow scholar," Hideyoshi greeted as he adjusted his glasses. "Nice to meet you."
"A scholar? I guess you and I used to be big nerds back where we came from," assumed Masataka. "Or was that just you?" Hideyoshi scowled at Masataka's words.
"Are we here to talk or fight?" challenged Hideyoshi as he took out his Donguri Lockseed.
"I'm here to win," answered Masataka as he took out his Melon Lockseed. "For the glory of the Son Clan. Henshin."
[MELON!]
"In the name of Empress Totaku! Henshin!"
[DONGURI!]
As the Armor Parts descended from their portals, the two men locked their Lockseeds into their SengokuDrivers.
[LOCK ON!]
After a moment, they pushed the Cutting Blades down to open their Lockseeds. The Armor Parts dropped on them and formed their Pre-Arms suits before they opened up to fold onto their bodies as armor.
[SOIYA! MELON ARMS! TENKA GOMEN!]
[COME ON! DONGURI ARMS! NEVER GIVE UP!]
"Authorized by Divine Providence," spoke Zangetsu as he drew his Musou Saber. "I am Zangetsu."
"It's Hammer Time!" Gridon announced, brandishing his Donkachi. "I'm Armored War God Gridon!"
"Fighters, are you ready?" the MC asked and the gong rang. "Begin!"
Gridon charged at Zangetsu to whack him with his Donkachi only to strike the Melon Defender instead. Zangetsu then retaliated with a series of brutal slashes against Gridon's chest before sending him staggering with a strike of his Melon Defender.
"You should surrender," offered Zangetsu. "There's no way you can beat me."
"Don't you ever listen? My Lockseed's chant is 'never give up'! There's no way I'm quitting!" Gridon then threw his Donkachi at Zangetsu, only for the white Rider to sidestep then slash at Gridon's back. He followed up with a shield bash and another slash before landing a kick that sent Gridon tumbling along the arena floor.
Sonshoko laughed, "Hahaha! That lame Armored War God should just give up! No one can beat Zan-niichan! He'll flatten him like a pancake!"
"Is that it?" Zangetsu asked only for Gridon to surprise him.
[RAMBUTAN!]
[LOCK ON!]
[COME ON! RAMBUTAN ARMS! MASH THEM UP!]
The Lockseed was sliced open, revealing a white core like the flesh of the fruit it was based on. The lid's backside also depicted a mace-like weapon. The new Rambutan Arms Armor Part which descended resembled a metal rambutan with a vibrant red color and green 'hairs' which were actually thin spikes. His Donguri Arms vanished as the Rambutan Arms Armor Part dropped down on Gridon's head before opening. The top portion broke in half as the sides folded down, allowing the top halves to form his shoulder armor. The back folded behind him while the front folded in half to attach to his chest as a spiked breastplate. The red headpiece that attached to his helmet also sported thin spikes. His visor also turned white. His weapon of choice in this form was a red mace covered in thin spikes.
"A new Lockseed?" Zangetsu questioned, curious at this development.
Gridon pounded his Rambutan Masher against his open palm, only to regret it as he pierced his glove. "Ow..."
"I wonder if you know how to use that power," Zangetsu pointed his Musou Saber at Gridon challengingly. Having an A-Class Lockseed and knowing how to use it were two different things.
"Oh, I've trained with this after I got it. I used it on Inves and trained with Kenshin. Trust me, I know how to use this," Gridon claimed. Gridon yelled out a battle-cry as he charged at Zangetsu, raising his mace. Zangetsu maintained his position as he was curious about what this Arms was capable of. All he needed to do for now was to avoid the attacks and find out its strength and weaknesses.
When the Rider of To got close, Zangetsu dodged multiple swings. One swing was about to hit him so he had no choice but to use his Melon Defender to block it. The Rambutan Masher made contact and the white Armored War God skidded back from the strike.
'Such power!' thought Zangetsu in amazement. His shield-holding arm was still trembling after blocking that attack. He quickly snapped back to reality as Gridon resumed his assault. The two clashed and, surprisingly, Gridon was faring better than before. The A-Class Lockseed had definitely given him the boost he needed. Every time their weapons collided, the sound of thunder could be heard.
Sonken was beginning to get worried. "Masataka-kun," whispered Sonken as she witnessed him getting pushed back.
"Zan-niichan! You can do it!" Sonshoko encouraged.
"That God is nothing compared to you, Zangetsu-sama!" Shokyo and Daikyo cheered.
After gaining some distance from Gridon, Zangetsu threw his Melon Defender but Gridon ducked under it. The Melon Defender spun around like a boomerang and was about to hit its target but Gridon spun and smacked it away with the Rambutan Masher.
"What!?" yelled Zangetsu in surprise as he saw his shield crashing against the barrier. That was completely unexpected.
"Hehe! All according to my calculations," bragged Gridon as he made a motion as if adjusting his glasses. He waved at Totaku who waved back.
"Meirin, is there a way for him to win?" Sonsaku asked her advisor and lover.
"Zangetsu-dono possesses more than one way to fight, Sheren-sama. Right now, I am sure a plan is forming within his mind," Shuyu reassured her.
Zangetsu took a deep breath and calmed down. He looked at Gridon who hadn't made a move to capitalize the situation. Gridon was probably relishing in the fact he had just disarmed the Ultimate Shield of the weapon that gained him his title.
"My counterattack begins," said Zangetsu and he swiftly charged at Gridon using his acceleration ability. Several slashes landed across Gridon's back and front before Zangetsu used a forward thrust to send his opponent tumbling.
"Gah!" Gridon gasped.
"A battle is not over until it is over," Zangetsu declared boldly as he unlocked one of his secondary Lockseeds.
[SOURSOP!]
The zipper portal opened and Gridon saw that this was bad. He got up and charged at Zangetsu while he was switching his Lockseeds.
[LOCK ON!]
The Melon Arms Armor Part vanished before Zangetsu used the Cutting Blade to open the Soursop Lockseed.
[SOIYA!]
The Soursop Arms dropped but then Zangetsu jumped back and the Armor Part bounced off the arena floor, hitting Gridon in the face. The Armor Part then landed on Zangetsu to transform into his armor.
[SOURSOP ARMS! TEN NO MICHI O AYUMU!]
Gridon observed Zangetsu's Soursop Arms and the Sourquhuitl he was armed with and gulped. This was the first time he ever saw Zangetsu using another Lockseed.
Both combatants circled one another, each waiting for the other attack. Gridon gave Zangetsu a wary look. He had made calculations on what to do when facing each of the Armored War Gods. However, this new Arms was definitely not one he considered nor was it one he knew that existed.
"Not going to attack? Then allow me," was all Zangetsu said before he dashed towards Gridon and struck. Sparks flew from Gridon's armor due to the slash from Zangetsu's Sourquhuitl.
Grunting, Gridon remarked, "I heard you had a GenesisDriver and Energy Lockseed. Why aren't you using them now?"
"I use them only for emergencies or huge threats. You don't qualify as either."
"What is that supposed to mean?" Gridon demanded, offended.
"You're too cautious and you overthink your moves."
"I just like to have a plan when I fight. Unlike my compatriot, I don't go into a fray without a strategy or contingencies," Gridon remarked.
"Having a strategy is good, but when on the battlefield you must rely on instincts!"
With no other choice, Gridon pressed on. Zangetsu blocked the attack and slashed him across the chest. Gridon was holding in a scream. That last attack was painful but he still endured. Zangetsu continued the assault with several more slashes and shredding sparks off before he smacked Gridon with the flat end of his weapon, sending him sprawling.
"Oh, it looks like Gridon-sama is being overwhelmed!" the MC announced. The count to ten was starting. If he failed to get back to his feet within the count of ten, he would lose.
"He's...he's so strong..." groaned Gridon as he tried to push himself back up. He struggled but dropped to the ground again. "Yue-hime..."
"Gridon!"
CLAP! CLAP! CLAP!
"Gridon!"
CLAP! CLAP! CLAP!
"Gridon!"
CLAP! CLAP! CLAP!
Gridon blinked and looked towards the direction of the sound. Totaku was standing and clapping while chanting his name.
"Gridon!"
CLAP! CLAP! CLAP!
"Gridon!"
CLAP! CLAP! CLAP!
"Gridon!"
CLAP! CLAP! CLAP!
The MC announced, "Oh, and it looks like Empress Totaku is chanting Gridon's name! Will this empowered our Armored War God's spirit?"
"Yue-hime..." uttered Gridon. "I won't...I can't lose here..." He stood up, ignoring the aches and pains he was feeling. Gripping tightly on the mace, he yelled a battle cry once more and ran forth, hitting the Cutting Blade three times.
[COME ON! RAMBUTAN SPARKING!]
[Neither will I," Zangetsu replied as his hand pressed the Cutting Blade three times.
[SOIYA! SOURSOP SPARKING!]
"RARGH!" Gridon roared as a projection of a rambutan appeared around his body as he smashed into Zangetsu. However, his attack was halted as Zangetsu's Sourquhuitl sliced into the projection and crashed into Gridon. There was an explosion as Zangetsu's weapon connected and Hideyoshi went flying as his armor vanished before he landed on the ground.
"Gomen...Yue-hime..." Hideyoshi coughed before he lost consciousness.
"Hideyoshi-kun!" gasped Totaku.
"And the match is over! The winner is Zangetsu!" the MC announced as the gong rang.
"He did it! He won!" Sonshoko bounced, hugging both twins as Zangetsu was victorious.
"He won...He won!" Sonken smiled. Sonsaku and Shuyu also smiled with pride.
Once the Safe Mode barrier dropped, medics came and picked up Hideyoshi to treat any injuries he may have acquired. Zangetsu walked off the arena, deactivating his armor as he went to rejoin the Son Faction.
Totaku got out of her seat, surprising Kaku, "Yue?"
"Tell them to have a short intermission!" Totaku ordered as she dashed off.
"An intermission?" Kaku asked. Everyone saw the empress leave and Kaku gulped a bit.
"Oh, relax, Ei," Kayu patted her shoulder. "We can have a short break between matches. Besides, you know where she's going."
Meanwhile, Iori was receiving words of encouragement because his match was up next.
"Good luck, Daddy," wished Riri.
"Do your best, Airen," encouraged Kochu.
Iori smiled at their words and also the wishes of luck from his friends. They also smiled at him encouragingly and in support. He never really got these from his parents. They never attended any of his archery competitions. It felt nice to be acknowledged.
At the same time, Marcus was receiving kisses from the Chou Sisters as they wished him luck. He always loved the attention and affection he got from the three singers. Mitsuki snorted as he rolled his eyes. If Chouryou was here, she would've given Marcus a very deep kiss that would leave the guy breathless.
Totaku headed down to the infirmary to see the two unconscious men who had fought in her name. They were both lying on mattresses as the physicians looked after them. She walked over and knelt next to Hideyoshi who was still unconscious. She then looked over to Kenshin who hadn't regained consciousness either.
"Oh, Hideyoshi-kun, Kenshin-kun," frowned Totaku sadly.
"Don't worry, Totaku-sama," Chojo reassured as she entered the infirmary. "Your Armored War Gods are in good hands. You should return to the tournament. Everyone expects you to be there."
"Ah, thank you, Chojo-dono," Totaku nodded. She gave Hideyoshi and Kenshin one last look before leaving and Chojo watched her go. Her smile turned sinister for a moment before she left to follow as well.
Iori and Marcus both stepped onto the arena next as they waited for their match to start. Marcus smiled as he gave Iori a bow which he returned.
The MC announced, "And now the final match for the first day of the tournament! From Sou Gi he is the manager of the famous Chou Sisters, an artist in his own right, and also the Ultimate Fury! The Artistic Knight, his name is Armored War God Bravo!"
Cheers erupted when Marcus' name was called and he blew kisses to the crowd, "Merci. Merci. Merci."
"From Shoku, he is the second-in-command to the army! Also, I'm sorry ladies, but he is already taken and married to the beautiful archer Kochu Kansho! Known as the Ultimate Eye and the Demon Dragon of Shoku, he is Armored War God Ryugen!"
"You love this kind of attention, don't you?" Iori asked as Marcus continued to blow kisses to the audience.
"Oui. I always love it when people praise my name when I stand on stage. Now, let us give the audience a show," Marcus recommended.
"I don't do flashy," Iori remarked.
"Well, then I shall make this flashy for the both of us, Monsieur Gunman. I do want my angels to enjoy the show," Marcus boasted.
"Let's just get this over with! Henshin!"
[KIWI!]
"Oui!" Marcus agreed. He kissed his Durian Lockseed and unlocked it, "Henshin!"
[DURIAN!]
Lockseeds were locked into their Drivers and the Cutting Blades were pushed down, revealing their cores and the image of their weapons.
[LOCK ON!]
[HAI~! KIWI ARMS! GEKI, RIN, SEI-YA HA!]
[DURIAN ARMS! MISTER DANGEROUS!]
As the two Riders transformed, Safe Mode was engaged. Instead of changing into his default Budou Arms, Ryugen decided to straight away use Kiwi Arms which was made for close and mid-ranged combat. He eyed Bravo's Durian Arms and the Duri Noko warily. He needed to take those weapons away from Bravo if he planned to win this match. Fortunately, he had the strategy to do it.
"Let's Rock and Roll!" Bravo declared, raising his Duri Noko high, proudly and dramatically.
"I Always Hit my Mark!" Ryugen declared.
"Alright! Fight!" the MC called as the gong rang.
"Yay, Daddy!" Riri cheered. "Kick his ass!"
Kochu looked scandalized by what her daughter had said, "Riri, where on Earth did you learn that word?"
"I heard Tanpopo-neechan say it," Riri answered.
"I see..." Kochu glowered. She and Batai were going to have a discussion about appropriate language in the presence of impressionable children, especially her daughter.
Ryugen quickly went on the offensive but Bravo simply dodged every single strike, laughing as he danced around Ryugen. The Kiwi Gekirin weren't hitting Bravo and the spiky Armored War God was surprisingly agile despite his bulky armor.
"My good fellow, you should be more focused," advised Bravo as he dodged another swipe, his arms behind his back.
"I am focused!" Ryugen snapped.
"Oh? And do you hear that? My angels are singing for me!" Bravo announced as he spread his arms. The Chou Sisters were cheering and Bravo could feel their words motivating him. "Ah, that wonderful music! For their sakes, I shall not lose!"
"Neither will I!" Ryugen retorted. His family was watching after all. Ryugen swung his weapons around, hoping he could land a hit but Ryugen should have known not to underestimate the one who had military training. Ryugen swung and jabbed with the Kiwi Gekirin and Bravo parried the wheel-shaped blades with his own swords. He swung his Duri Noko and Ryugen blocked, only to be slashed across the chest moments later before being slashed across the back a moment later.
Ryugen swung around to hit his opponent but Bravo ducked under the weapons and tripped Ryugen with his foot, causing him to fall down. Ryugen tried to get up but Bravo stomped on his chest, pinning him down. Ryugen struggled to stand but Bravo added more weight to his foot, not giving Ryugen any chance to stand.
"Surrender?" Bravo asked, tilting his head to the side.
"Never!" Ryugen spat and Bravo shook his head.
"Tsk, tsk, tsk. And I was even considering not making this too humiliating for you." Bravo stepped off Ryugen and took hold of Ryugen's legs. He picked Ryugen up and slammed him left-right-left-right into the ground.
"Bravo is now showing us his outrageous strength!" the MC yelled to the audience.
"Daddy!" Riri cried out. "Stop it! Stop hurting Daddy!"
"No! Iori!" Kochu cringed.
"Gaim-sama, is Ryugen-sama's armor strong?" Ryuubi asked.
"It's durable but even it has limits," said Nagata as he watched Bravo tossing Ryugen left and right like a ragdoll. 'Come on, buddy...'
Bravo released Ryugen who rolled along the floor of the arena. He groaned and returned to his feet, feeling the bruises from Bravo's abuse. Ryugen growled and hurled his Kiwi Gekirin towards Bravo. The Armored War God of Ultimate Fury laughed as he bent his body backwards, showing off his flexibility, and allowed the twin disks of death to soar over him harmlessly.
Bravo stood straight up again and gloated, "Hah, you missed!"
"Did I?" Ryugen asked as the Kiwi Gekirin bounced against the barrier and began to ricochet all around them. Bravo began to dodge the flying wind-and-fire wheels. The audience watched as the Kiwi Gekirin bounced about the barrier, following their trajectory, and Ryugen watched as his weapons attacked Bravo.
"An impressive move," admired Masataka. "He purposely missed Bravo so he could hit the barrier and ricochet his weapons. They are able to maintain their momentum by bouncing around the barrier." That was quite a smart tactic. Ryugen was using physics to his advantage.
Bravo was being hit several times by the ricocheting Kiwi Gekirin. However, this didn't last long as a fed up Bravo smacked the Kiwi Gekirin away with the Duri Noko, causing them to drop to the arena floor. They spun on their sides for a few moment before falling still.
"Very commendable. Using your surroundings to your advantage. Simple yet effective, almost," acknowledged Bravo.
"OK, change of tactics!" Ryugen decided as he took out his Budou Lockseed and unlocked it before switching the Kiwi Lockseed with it.
[BUDOU!]
[LOCK ON!]
[HAI~! BUDOU ARMS! RYU, HOU, HA-HA-HA!]
Ryugen kept his distance and fired his Budou Ryuhou. Bravo grinned and charged at Ryugen, blocking the salvo of shots with his swords. Once in range, he swung at Ryugen who ducked and slid under the slash before he hopped to his feet and shot Bravo in the back, causing him to stumble forward a bit. Bravo then spun around and Ryugen ducked before shooting Bravo point blank in the chest. However, Bravo didn't show any sort of pain as he slashed Ryugen in the chest. He slashed the gunslinger one more time after that before performing a cross slash that ripped sparks off Ryugen's chest as he howled.
"Oh no!" Kochu gasped.
"Ryugen-sama, don't give up!" Ryuubi called out.
"Daddy, you can do it! You can win!" cried Riri.
Ryugen heard Riri's cry and gritted his teeth before he sent a kick into Bravo's chest to shove him backwards and then jumped several feet back to get some distance.
"This is for my daughter!" declared Ryugen as he pushed down on his Cutting Blade.
[HAI~! BUDOU SQUASH!]
He gave the hammer a tug as the purple gems on his gun glowed and purple spheres gathered in front of his Budou Ryuhou's barrel. Once the purple spheres concentrated into one big sphere, Ryugen pulled the trigger.
"Take this!" Ryugen shouted as the Budou Ryuhou released a bombardment of purple energy shots flying towards Bravo. There was no way the artist could counter this.
[DURIAN SQUASH!]
A wave of energy erupted from the comb on Bravo's helmet and he swung his head around to deflect all of Ryugen's shots with ease, much to the gunslinger's shock. The audience gasped, completely taken by surprised by the unexpected counter.
"Oh! And Bravo has countered Ryugen's finishing move! This has become quite the suspenseful match!" the MC announced. The Chou Sisters cheered loudly, quite amazed by Bravo's swift counter.
Ryugen just gawked at his gun and then up at Bravo who made a mocking gesture, "Was that all? Such a pity. You could've beaten me if you had used more firepower."
"More firepower?" Ryugen smirked. "Good idea!" he took out the Pitaya Lockseed and unlocked it.
[PITAYA!]
He removed the Budou Lockseed and replaced it with the Pitaya Lockseed as his Budou Arms vanished. Bravo watched patiently as his opponent initiated a change in wardrobe.
[LOCK ON!]
[HAI~! PITAYA ARMS! RYUJIN, HOU, HOH! HOH! HOH!]
The Pitaya Arms Armor Part fell atop Ryugen and folded onto his body to form his more powerful and bulkier Pitaya Arms armor. Since the Safe Mode barrier kept the audience from harm, Ryugen didn't hesitate to summon the Pitaya Ryujin Hou.
"A dragon fruit for a dragon. How fitting, Monsieur Gunman," complimented Bravo. "But it won't save you!" Bravo charged at Ryugen who prepared to fire. Ryugen pulled the trigger, unleashing an energy cannonball which soared towards Bravo. However, Bravo did not pause but instead jumped up, leaping over the projectile which exploded against the barrier. Ryugen's eyes widened and he continued to fire, only for Bravo to dodge each blast with ease.
What Ryugen didn't know was that Bravo had taken ballet lessons as a boy to improve his agility, flexibility and reflexes. It was all under the urging of his mother. This was why he could avoid the blasts so easily. Realizing that his shots would not hit, Ryugen dropped his weapon and got into a boxing stance.
"Take this!" shouted Bravo as he slashed at Ryugen who ducked and then jabbed him in the stomach. Bravo stumbled back from the hit as Ryugen followed up with a one-two punch combo.
"Boxing?" Nagata blinked.
As a kid, Iori used to be bullied. However, his older brother noticed and taught him boxing moves to defend himself. It seemed that Iori was using boxing with Pitaya Arms. The fighting style complimented his Arms well.
"Ah, I see," Bravo cracked his neck. "Very well. I shall indulge you." He dropped his Duri Noko and took on a boxing stance as well. "Ouverture!"
Ryugen charged at Bravo and threw a punch, only to be blocked by Bravo's forearm. Bravo retaliated with several jabs to Ryugen's stomach, but his opponent withstood the attacks thanks to the durability of the Pitaya Arms. Ryugen hit Bravo with a right cross but Bravo caught Ryugen's left fist as he tried to follow up with a left hook. Bravo twisted Ryugen's arm, forcing him to his knees.
"Is that all?" Bravo asked.
"Not even close!" Ryugen still had a free hand, one which reached for the Cutting Blade which came down over the Lockseed.
[HAI~! PITAYA SQUASH!]
A pitaya projection appeared over Ryugen's free fist and he drew his fist back to punch Bravo in the gut. However, before he could follow through with his attack, Bravo kneed him in the face and knocked him backwards.
"Airen!" Kochu cried, imagining his pain. Ryugen groaned but managed to recover before rising to his feet. However, Bravo was already too close for him to do anything.
"Bearhug!" Bravo called as he caught a surprised Ryugen in a tight hug, pressing him against his spiky armor.
"Argh!" Ryugen actually felt those spikes starting to dig into his suit. "Lemme...lemme go!" Ryugen struggled but Bravo simply tightened his hold in response.
"Je suis desole, but no can do," chuckled Bravo. "I must win this for Sousou-sama. So, no hard feelings. Hroh!" He tightened his hug and Ryugen found his ribs constricting around his lungs while Bravo continued to add pressure. While Bravo was bear-hugging Ryugen into submission, the audience either blushed or turned their heads away, or both. What the Ultimate Fury was doing was highly suggestive.
"Ooohhh!" Chokaku covered her mouth as she blushed, as did her sisters. They had been hugged by Marcus before. Seeing him hugging his opponent to death was a whole other thing.
"This is...not at all what I expected..." spoke Choryo.
"Well, Marcus-kun can be pretty creative in battle," Choho stated.
"Ugghh, that damn fruitcake," Mitsuki pinched the bridge of his nose as he closed his eyes so he could not witness this 'horror show'. Sousou just facepalmed. She should've seen this coming. Marcus was the most flamboyant of her court members but she never thought he would go so far in battle. This was even worse since he was doing so in her name.
Kochu gaped in shock and covered Riri's eyes so she would not see this spectacle. Not because her daddy was being beaten, but because of the inappropriate way he was being beaten.
"What's going on?" Like Riri, Chouhi had her eyes covered by Kanu.
"There's nothing to see!" denied Kanu, who was covering her little sister's eyes.
"That poor man," Sonsaku whispered in pity. Masataka and Shuyu nodded in sympathy with grim faces.
"And now...the finale!" Bravo declared as he gave Ryugen one last squeeze of immense pressure. Ryugen panted, gasping for air but it was futile. He was at his limit and finally passed out. Feeling his opponent's lack of movement, Bravo let him go to drop to the arena floor. Some who saw Ryugen drop could've sworn they saw the defeated Armored War God's soul drifting away from his body.
The MC shook her head and made the announcement, "After that rather 'interesting' finishing move, Bravo wins the match!" The gong rang.
Bravo raised his fists and basked in his victory. "Hahaha! Merci! Merci!" He bowed to the audience. The audience were less enthusiastic and just gave soft claps. Even the members of Sou Gi were not so enthusiastic about it.
"A very...um...interesting way to win a match," Juniku spoke. She looked to the Chou Sisters who were happy that Marcus had won but not in the way they had expected. Hugging an opponent to unconsciousness was not something often seen in combat.
"Make sure he never does that again," begged Sousou as she rubbed her temples. That had been disturbing to watch.
Iori regained consciousness in the infirmary, surrounded by his friends. When he asked how the fight went, he was told that he had lost. He remembered how he had lost.
"Sorry, everyone. I couldn't win," Iori sighed in disappointment and hung his head in shame at his defeat. It wasn't the fact that he was defeated that made him feel low, it was the manner in which he had been defeated. He was alright if his friends offered consoling words of encouragement, but they sounded more like words of pity after what he had been forced to endure.
"It's nothing to feel sorry about, Airen. Your opponent was just more experienced than you," Kochu comforted him.
"And you were so cool, Daddy!" praised Riri, beaming. Iori smiled as he patted his stepdaughter's head. Kochu and Riri always knew how to turn his frowns upside down.
"Thanks, you two," Iori smiled at his family. Even if he felt bad for not winning, his family wasn't disappointed in him and made him feel better. He may have lost his chance to win the tournament, but he already felt like the luckiest man on Earth.
"And don't worry, Iori. I'll win for the both of us and Shoku!" boasted Nagata.
"That's right! Nagata-niichan won't lose!" agreed Chouhi.
"Your next opponent is Baron, Nagata-sama. I do believe it will be a difficult match," Kanu warned. There was no doubt Baron would try just as hard to win, if not harder.
Nagata replied, "Then I just have to plan my strategy to beat him. Too bad Shuri isn't here. She'd be a great help right about now."
"Don't worry. You have us," reassured Ryuubi.
"Thanks, girls. I appreciate it."
Sousou was currently lecturing Marcus on 'the proper use of force'. Apparently, while hugging the opponent into a state of unconsciousness was effective, it was also very awkward. Since Bravo's performance reflected on Sousou it was more of an embarrassment despite the fact that he had won.
Mitsuki ignored Sousou's lecture as he focused his mind. As Bravo, Gaim, Baron and Zangetsu had advanced to the semi-finals, the next two matches were already posted on the board.
"So, my next opponent is Gaim," Mitsuki grinned. "Excellent." He was looking forward to it. He had been hoping for a rematch for quite some time now and this time he would prove who the superior fighter between them was.
"My opponent is...Bravo..." paled Masataka. After witnessing how Bravo had beaten Ryugen, he wasn't looking forward to the match. He didn't want to be bearhugged by that flamboyant Rider right in front of his faction. Just the thought of it made goosebumps appear on his skin.
However, he couldn't just forfeit. His friends were counting on him to win. He would have to risk the humiliation and endure what may happen. Besides, in this tournament, it was about facing your opponent head on and facing them bravely. He then took a deep breath to calm his thoughts, eyes closed, before he opened them to show his determination. He would defeat his opponents, no matter who they were, and win this tournament in the name of Son Go.
As everyone calmed down after the exciting matches, the sun was beginning to set. While things were beginning to get really exciting, considering who would be fighting next, the first day of the tournament was coming to an end.
"And so ends the first day of the Imperial Armored War God Tournament! Come back tomorrow to watch the semi-finals!" the MC announced.
KRC: I wouldn't have been able to do this chapter without help from Gkoh. He has done so much to help with scenes. Also, great to have an editor in the name of Busterleader92.
TFP: And the first rounds of the tournament are done, and with some crushing defeats dealt to some of our underdogs. Poor Ryugen.
Fruits of the Tree, Yggdrasil
Safe Mode: A feature built into the Lockseeds that can be manipulated by the Riders. The Safe Mode forms a barrier around the combatants similar to the barrier which forms around Inves while an Inves Game takes place. Kenshin and Hideyoshi discovered this feature when they helped Totaku organize the event. This feature would allow the Riders to fight without any risk of harming the audience or bystanders. According to Hideyoshi, both parties must mutually agree to use Safe Mode. In Safe Mode, moves no longer have lethal potential but can still hurt.
Rambutan Arms: Accessed with the Rambutan Lockseed (L.S.-22), this Arms increases Gridon's overall combat power and even increases his defenses, although not as significantly as most defensive-based Arms. He does gave a new weapon in the form of a mace called the Rambutan Masher which allows him to cause more physical damage to his opponent.
Tomato Arms: Accessed with the Tomato Lockseed (L.S.-23), this Arms increases Kurokage's speed and arms him with the Tomaspear, which resembles a red Daidaimaru on a long pole. In terms of combat ability, Kurokage receives a significant boost in speed, agility, jumping height and strength. However, his defense stats haven't improved much as this Arms is mostly speed-based and heavier armor would only hamper that.
Coconut Arms: Produced by the Coconut Lockseed (L.S.-24), this Arms configuration allows the user to fight with their bare hands, perfect for someone who relies on the flexibility of unarmed martial arts instead of fighting with weapons. The Arms greatly increases the strength of the user, but at the sacrifice of their speed. The Arms Weapon is a pair of gauntlets dubbed the Coco Boxers, a pair of gauntlets which although smaller than the Kurumi Bombers, are denser. They also possess hidden pistons which boost the punches of the user, making them literally able to punch like a jackhammer.