Something was coming, something big. He didn't know what it was. It was only a feeling, but it was a very strong one. Perhaps it was the recurring nightmare he had of him fighting Aoi, or perhaps it was his encounter with one of his former comrades that foreshadowed the appearance of the others. Whatever the reason one, Shinichi needed to prepare and get himself ready. But what to do? He didn't want to admit it, but he realized that he was going to need some help. Netto and the girls could handle themselves with most opponents, and if what Moka said about vampires was true then he didn't have to worry much about her. But he couldn't afford to get rusty.
His friends were involved as well, as much as he didn't want them to be. They now had targets painted on their backs for just associating with him. They needed to get ready too. Problem is he didn't really know of a place for them to practice. There was a gym in one of the sub-basements of Fran's manor, but he wasn't sure how it would hold up against monster energy. It could probably handle the power of one monster, but to have several of them concentrated into one area may not be the best idea.
Still, he needed to get them ready to face what was coming. It wouldn't only be the Freaks they would be fighting, but the full force of his former comrades. Like him, they had the ability to use Battle Chips but unlike him they wouldn't be very friendly. Which was why he spent the next morning looking for a good secretive spot around the parks surrounding the city. Somewhere with lots of room but no one would normally visit. Problem is, there was no location with the preferences he was looking for.
"Looking for something?"
Shinichi's eyes widened and quickly spun around. Behind him was a tall man in what he could only describe to be was a priest in robes, with the top half of his face covered by a hood. Instantly, his forearm pincers sprang out from his right arm and he aimed his weapons at him.
"Who are you and what do you want?" Shinichi demanded. He hated being snuck up upon. He really should've paid more attention to his surroundings better. That sort of negligence was lethal. There was also something very off about the man.
"I'm not here to fight you," the man raised his hands peacefully, smiling as if he hadn't just been threatened and seemingly not minding the pincers. "I just noticed that you were looking for some kind of place in particular. Am I right?"
"Answer the question: who are you and what do you want?" Shinichi repeated as he charged up his pincers.
"My name isn't important at the moment," the man said, "You can consider me as... a benefactor. I've been watching your battles against the Freaks and a few other spooks, but you won't last as you are now. So I decided to throw my hat into the ring."
"What do you want?" Shinichi was slowly losing patience as this man was speaking in riddles.
"To help you, obviously," the man answered finally.
"Why? What's in it for you?" Shinichi asked. He learnt that nobody did anything for no reason. Even Fran received compensation for her services and a sense of satisfaction. There were no such things as selfless good deeds and this man was obviously selling something.
"You really don't trust me, do you?" the man asked, the smile not falling from his face.
"I'm not dense. I just met you, and you haven't even given me your name. The number of people I can trust can be counted in one hand and the one I trust the most-"
"-Is Fran Madaraki, the woman you love dearly like a sister," the man finished. Shinichi blushed. He did care a lot about Fran. The woman, strange as she was, had given him a place to call home. Sure, she counted on him to protect the manor, but that was a small price to pay. He owed her. "And it's not really what I want, but what you desire. You desire power, great power, to protect the ones you love."
"How do you know all this?" Shinichi asked suspiciously.
"I make it my business to know about the supernatural in this realm. Though, you're not a supernatural, you have come into contact with it and even use their power as if it were your own. I've been watching you. I wonder though, what you are."
Shinichi identified himself by the moniker Aoi had given him, "A Kamen Rider."
"Hm. Those mystery men of urban legend," the man nodded, "Yes, that title works wonderfully for you."
"It was a title given to me by a friend," Shinichi admitted.
"So, you need a place for you and your friends to train. Somewhere where they can flex their abilities and not worry about exposure," the man concluded.
"Yes, but what I want to know what are your intentions?" Shinichi asked, his weapon still aimed at this man. This man had not answered any of his questions.
"My intentions? Just the safety of everyone in this city," the man answered.
"Are you some kind of secret guardian?" Shinichi questioned.
"You can say that," he turned toward a tree and waved his hand across it slightly. There was a small glow of purple, and it quickly grew into a blinding light. In his shock, Shinichi carelessly dropped his weapon and gaped with his hair antenna standing up.
"...No way!"
Damn it! Why did it have to be magic again!? It never made sense to him! He didn't believe in it, but he knew it was real! Still, why did it have to be magic!? He didn't hate magic, it just irritated him since it made no sense to him.
Opening Theme: It's Time to Say Goodbye by Jeff Williams and Casey Lee Williams
Royal Knights Saga
Episode 20: Small World
Gundam Model Kits were mostly seen as something only geeks would be interested in. Though, many fans of Gundam would argue that Gundam Model Kits were actually works of art. Builders weren't just limited to the parts they got in each box and the instructions. No, it was more than that. While amateur builders were satisfied with just snapping together the model parts, expert builders preferred to add their own personal touch to the models. They customized their models to suit their individual tastes. This could be done by mixing and matching parts from different kits and giving the models a new paint job.
Gunpla, after all, was supposed to be an expression of freedom.
In the last Gundam Competition, Aoi Tatsu had won first place with his model. However, afterwards, he just vanished. But the destiny of Gunpla would soon change as something completely radical and revolutionary would be added and it would cause the fandom to go insane. It was something thought not possible, science fiction even. However, it had become a reality. A company that called themselves PPSE had just developed something that every Gundam Builder would want. Why was that? Well, see for yourselves...
It was another summer day and Shinichi had gone to the convention centre to see a one-day only exhibition. It was supposed to promote PPSE's latest product. Shinichi, a Gundam fan and Gunpla builder himself, wanted to see what the big deal was.
And now that he was seeing it himself, he was actually impressed. Impressed, well, it was more like he was geeking out.
"They're moving! The Gunpla are moving!" he exclaimed shamelessly.
The Gunpla had been set on tables, but these were no simple tables. They projected holographic environments for the Gunpla to do battle on. And how were the Gunpla moving? Simply because they were being animated by a something called Plavsky particles. They reacted to the plastic the Gunpla were made of and allowed them to move.
People were amazed by this technology and Shinichi was one of them. He watched as people tried out the tables and he grinned widely with eyes wide in fascination. He really should've brought one of his Gunpla to try this out. This was awesome!
Shinichi wasn't the only one amazed. Also present was Aoi Tatsu. When he heard about this, he also couldn't wait to witness the new technology at work. He was absolutely flabbergasted by how realistic it all looked. It was like actually piloting a Mobile Suit.
Someone bumped into his shoulder and apologized, "I'm sorry..." It was Shinichi and he blinked. "Aoi-kun?"
"Sempai," Aoi smiled, relieved. "You're alright. I heard you got hurt."
Shinichi's eyes narrowed, "Yeah, I did."
"Before you start, you should know that I had nothing to do with that," Aoi said quickly.
"I know that, but right now I'm not sure what to think of you," Shinichi answered.
"Yeah, I get that," Aoi sighed. "Look, we're surrounded by people who love Gunpla and look at what is happening. Gunpla being animated. How about we pretend that nothing has changed between us for now. I still consider you my best friend, sempai."
Shinichi met Aoi's gaze and he found sincerity in them. Shinichi was still a bit bothered that Aoi had accepted his new status as a Freak, but right now, he just wanted to be with his friend again. "Alright, I guess it's been awhile since I hung out with someone who loves Gunpla as much as I do."
"It's been awhile since I've been to anything involving Gunpla," Aoi added.
"Because your evil overlords have you working on something?" Shinichi questioned.
"Not really," Aoi shrugged.
"Aoi-kun, I need to know. What are they planning with you?"
"They haven't fully decided yet," Aoi told him. "I'll... we'll eventually find out in due time." Shinichi simply nodded. He didn't really like the answer, but knew he had to except it.
"Hey! Shin! Over here!" Shinichi turned around to where his name was being called and widened his eyes slightly. There on the other side were Saji, Takeru, and another girl he didn't recognise. Aoi frowned sadly as he turned.
"Looks like I should go now," Aoi told Shinichi.
"Aoi-kun, wait-"
"Sempai, they can't know about me. They wouldn't understand," Aoi told him. Shinichi wanted to argue, but then again he was keeping secrets from his two human friends as well. Aoi walked off and gave a wave. "Have a nice day."
Shinichi wore a sad expression as Aoi walked away. He had changed a lot, actually aged and grown that he looked like a tall high schooler instead of the small and weak person he used to be. He actually preferred the old Aoi. This new one actually made Shinichi instinctively go into a battle mindset since he knew and could sense what Aoi was.
Aoi was incredibly dangerous, even while not transformed.
"Howdy, Shin!" Saji greeted with a fist bump. "Who was the big guy?"
"Oh, him? He was... an old Gunpla acquaintance," Shinichi half-lied. "So, who's the girl?" Shinichi asked Takeru.
"My cousin, Ranko Hata," Takeru said. "She'll be starting school with us after summer break."
"Greetings," Ranko said in a monotone voice. "It's a pleasure to meet you." She was an average looking girl, kind of cute actually, with green hair in a pageboy haircut. It was her blank expression which put him off a bit.
"You know, I was curious that a girl was with him. Usually they don't give him the time of day," Saji remarked with a chuckle. Takeru simply glared in response.
"Hi, I'm Shinichi," Shinichi greeted with a bow. "Shinichi Sanban. So, what are you guys doing here?" Shinichi asked.
"Dude, they have technology that makes Gundam models move! You know how much I love video games, right? This just takes things to the next level!" said Takeru excitedly.
"And I reckon I could try this Gundam Battle stuff myself. It looks like fun," Saji added.
"Well, too bad we don't have models to try them out," Shinichi sighed.
"You can actually borrow display models for demo battles," Ranko stated.
"You can build Gunpla model's too, Ranko-san?" Shinichi asked.
"No, I'm more of a freelance photographer/reporter. I was hoping to conduct interviews with the players," she told him. "Speaking of which, Takeru told me that you enjoyed Gunpla right? How did you first become interested?" she asked, pulling out a pen and notepad.
"Well, I guess it was while I was looking around for anything interesting. That was when I came across a shop selling the model kits. It seemed like an interesting hobby. Instead of collecting ready made figures, I could actually build my own and customize it to my own specifications and use my imagination," he replied.
"Hmm..." Ranko muttered as she began scribbling down on her pad, "So you use Gunpla as a replacement for your porn."
"Eh?... EH?!" Shinichi reacted, his antenna hair turning jagged.
"I suppose I should've mentioned that Reiko likes to twist things people she interviews say into something dirty," Takeru said quickly.
"Yah know, I thought somethin' was off when you said this normal looking girl was related to ya. Now it all makes sense," Saji quipped.
"I don't use Gunpla to replace porn!" Shinichi exclaimed, blushing. "It's just something I like to do on my spare time!"
"This guy doesn't need porn. Not with all the girls throwing themselves at him," Takeru pointed out.
"Shin here's gatherin' his own harem," remarked Saji.
"A harem, hm~?" Ranko looked at Shinichi speculatively. She circled around him and then surprised him by smacking his butt.
"Hey!" Shinichi exclaimed, offended.
"So, where are those lovely ladies?" Saji asked curiously. "Usually, you're almost glued to the hip to at least one of em."
"Today is my 'me time'," Shinichi replied. "I just need my space."
"Huh? That so?" Takeru said. "You know who else would love this kind of stuff? Netto."
"Oh that's right," Shinichi remembered. "He's a real tech fanatic. I'm sure he could use a bit of me time too."
"So you wanna call him in?"
"If he's not doing anything, I don't see any reason not to," Shinichi said, pulling out his cell phone. He punched in the number into the keys before bringing the phone to his face. "Hey, Netto! What's up? You doing anything right now?"
Aoi, in the meantime, walked around the convention centre, looking around and admiring the constructions. Though he couldn't really focus too much on the machines around him, and more on his old friends. Saji and Takeru were also among the ones who help him with his bullying problem. Unlike Shinichi though, they didn't have the means to defend themselves. Likely Shinichi knew that too, which was why he was keeping them out of his double life as much as possible. Aoi hoped that they wouldn't have to be caught in the war as well. Part of him wished he could still talk to them again.
He sighed as he gazed at the people customizing Gunpla of their own. At the corner of his eye, he noticed someone finishing what appeared to be a Gunpla of their own. It was a girl, a very pretty girl who appeared to be a cross between Chinese and Korean. She was quite tall for her age, around 5'8, and had a slender and curvaceous figure and her breasts were rather modest. Her skin was milky white and her black hair is long enough to go past her knees and were bounded together with silver hair clips. She also had a hime-cut with crimson highlights. She had strands of her hair framing both sides of her face and are kept together by twin snake clips. Her eyes were deep green and looked very alluring. She was dressed in a green short sleeved Chinese shirt, a green mini skirt, black leggings with knee high boots. She also had her nails polished in green and she had a tattoo of what is possible a snake slithering on her right arm, though it was hard to tell since the sleeve was covering her shoulders. The girl noticed Aoi looking at her, gave a smiling wave.
"Ah, so you're here too?" Aoi asked, walking over to her.
"Of course," the Korean girl answered. "It's not everyday you get to see events like this. This Gunpla stuff sounds fun too." She held up her own Gunpla for Aoi to see. "It's not the only reason why I'm here though."
"You're here for my sempai," Aoi clarified.
"So you know too?"
"Not at first," Aoi said. "I bumped into him unexpectedly."
"Really? Well, that's fine all the same," the Korean girl shrugged.
"If you're going to pick a fight with him, I suggest you do it outside. And you better not do anything permanent," Aoi warned her.
"Oh, I'm not going to try anything just yet," the girl reassured him, smiling with a hand wave. "Besides, I'm a little more interested with the other one who's following him. What was his name again?"
"Netto Kusanagi? Haven't seen him today. Maybe he's here, maybe not. Why?" Aoi asked.
"Oh, just wanted to see how he measures up, that's all," the girl answered coy smile.
"Just... don't go overboard," Aoi told her.
"No worries. I won't," the girl said. Aoi gave a small nod and went on his way.
"So, Shin. Are you gonna try playing a Gunpla Battle?" Takeru asked as he, Ranko, Shinichi and Saji were looking at the model kits being sold at the event.
"Naturally. I wouldn't be much of a fan if I didn't try out the latest thing," Shinichi replied.
"What if it's just a passing fad?" Ranko asked.
"At least I can say I tried it at least once," Shinichi said as he browsed through the different kits. "Ah, I'll get this one."
"An SD Gundam?" Takeru asked. "Why would you want something like that?"
"Nothing wrong with the SD line, Takeru. Besides, I like how there are so many variants," Shinichi smiled. "Hey, if you guys wanna play, grab a kit and start building."
"Heh, don't mind if I do," said Saji as he picked a kit. "Takeru?"
"Sure, sure," Takeru looked around for something that would interest him. "How about you, Ranko?"
"Don't mind me. I'll just take pictures and report," Ranko told them.
"Well, suit yourself," Takeru shrugged. He gazed at the line of models to see which one interested him. "So... which one...?"
"Try that one," Shinichi suggested, pointing to the Gundam Double X.
"Hey, that looks pretty kickass!" Takeru gapped, ogling the model. "Yeah, I'll definitely get that one!"
"And what about you, Saji?" Shinichi asked.
"Got mine right here," Saji said, holding up a Gundam Virsago which he already had already paid for.
"Alright, guys! Let's get building so we get on to battling!" Shinichi declared excitedly.
Netto arrived to the convention centre to see what got Shinichi so excited. He did feel like he could use a bit of break himself. Qiao, Usha, and Kiko were doing some girl stuff and he was pretty sure that Moka, Kurumu, Mizore, Ruby and Yukari were doing the same. Just hanging out by himself was boring too. So he decided to see what was up. Looking around, he noticed one of the Gundams on display that stuck out to him. Shrugging to himself, he went over to make a payment.
"And finished," Shinichi concluded after putting in the finishing touches. It might've been just snapped together, without any customization, but it was still a work of art in his eyes. Besides, he could just take it home later and customize it in his own personal workshop. It was a Legend BB Musha Gundam (SD). Cute but still pretty formidable.
"How are you guys doing?" Shinichi asked.
"I think we got our models mixed up," Takeru remarked as he and Saji shared puzzled looks.
"I told you to stay on your side," hissed Saji.
"And since when have I listened to you outside of school?" Takeru shot back.
"If you listened ta me more this wouldn't a happened!" Saji snapped.
"Oh sure, so this is my fault," Takeru said, rolling his eyes.
"It IS your fault!" Saji shouted.
"Sexual tension..." Ranko noted down.
"Shut up!" both boys snapped at her.
"Hey, guys!" Netto waved over was he approached them.
"Netto! You made it!" Shinichi smiled brightly. Netto was surprised by the expression, but he knew about Shinichi's love for Gunpla. To him, this could probably be considered his 'Happy Place'. "Did Qiao keep you?"
"Naw, she and the others are doing something else at the moment," Netto told him. "Where's Moka and the others."
"Girl time," Shinichi said. He had texted them and he learnt that were hanging out together.
"And guys never ask about girl time," Takeru added.
"I see. So, who's the one pointing a camera straight at my face?" Netto asked.
"This is Ranko Saotome, Takeru's cousin," Shinichi introduced. "She's gonna be sticking with us for a while."
"I'm an aspiring reporter and I'm here to cover this event for my blog," Ranko said.
"Oh, a pleasure to met you Ranko-san. I'm Netto," Netto extended his hand and Ranko took it into a shake.
"He's got a harem of his own, just like Shin!" Takeru cut in.
"I don't have a harem!" Shinichi insisted. Honestly, he wasn't really dating anyone, so why would Takeru even insinuate that?
"You keep saying that, but have girls liking you is a harem by definition," Takeru told him.
"No actually, it's not," Shinichi deadpanned.
"Another harem, hm?" Ranko quickly began writing on her notepad. "Tell me, what are your favorite positions?"
"Say wha?" was all Netto could say.
"That- that's cool, Ranko. You're just spooking him now," Saji said, trying to wave her off.
Shinichi shook his head in exasperation. Then he noticed a flyer pinned to a wall. Taking it in his hands, he read the paper and smiled. "Hey, look! There's a signup sheet for a tournament that's taking place in a week," he said, flashing the paper.
"A tournament, already?" Takeru asked.
"Best way to promote this Gunpla Battle thing. Make it big and bold," Saji agreed.
"It opens up in a week, that means we have time to prepare. Sound interested?" Shinichi asked.
"I don't think I wanna get my but whooped out there," Takeru said.
"I just started," Saji added.
"I think I can try," Netto answered.
"Come on. Let's ask how we can join," Shinichi said. They went to the nearest sign in booth they could find. Already, there was a line forming in front, prompting the boys to wait for some time. It wasn't long before they reached the booth.
"If you kids want to join the tournament, you're going to need a GP Base," said the man at the sign in booth. "They're selling them over there. You better hurry, though."
The GP Base was a handheld device resembling a PDA or smartphone. It was rectangular, with a black screen display and a circular slot. The GP base was necessary in Gunpla Battles as information on the Gunpla's builder, fighter as well as specs of the Gunpla would need to be put inside. It was how Gunpla could perform like their counterparts in the animated series, including weapons and beam effects.
"I'm surprised I still have money after this," Shinichi remarked as he admired his new GP Base. He had just registered in his name as builder and fighter. "Well, let's try our new Gunpla. I've been itching for a Gunpla Battle."
"There's an empty table over there," Netto pointed. "Let's use that."
Shinichi and his friends went over to the unused Gunpla Battle tables, which was shaped in a large black hexagon. Shinichi examined the set up. "Alright, who'll battle me?"
"Count me out, dude," said Takeru.
"Me too, buddy. Ours ain't ready," replied Saji.
"If you want, you can have simulated battle with a drone Gunpla," a staff member at the convention suggested.
"OK," Shinichi cracked his knuckles as the system started up. "Time to have some fun."
"Please set your GP Base," the computer instructed as Shinichi placed his GP Base on the port. The GP Base activated, first displaying the PPSE logo, followed by his name which was listed under Builder and Fighter. The name of the Gunpla he had just built, the Musha Gundam was also displayed.
Beginning Plavsky particle dispersal. The table glowed and released shining blue particles. A holographic cockpit appeared around Shinichi and he admired the set up.
"Sugoi," Shinichi's eyes shone in amazement.
"Field 1: Space. Please set your Gunpla," the computer stated.
Shinichi placed down the Musha Gundam and the Plavsky particles instantly brought it to life as its eyes flashed. The console appeared next and the convention staff explained, "You see those two glowing spheres? Those are your controls. Put your hands on them." Shinichi placed his hands on the spheres. Despite being generated holographically, they appeared solid.
"Battle Start."
"Now announce yourself," the staff member instructed.
"Shinichi Sanban and Musha Gundam! Here we go!" Shinichi announced himself as the Musha Gundam was launched through the launch tube and out onto the holographic battlefield, that being a destroyed space station with the debris floating around aimlessly. It landed on a piece of debris and Shinichi looked around his console. The display screen was showing him everything from his Gunpla's point of view.
"How is it, dude?" Takeru asked.
"Almost feels like I'm in my machine," Shinichi replied and the screen on his left displayed. CAUTION in bright red letters. "Huh?"
BOOM!
"Argh!" Shinichi cried in shock as he suddenly shook, as if he got hit by something. "What hit me!" His display screen showed his drone opponent, the RX-78-2 Gundam, otherwise known as the very first Gundam.
"It's just a hologram so it can't really damage you," the staff member instructed. "Now try to get used to your controls."
"OK, I need to know how to move. OK," Shinichi twisted the controls to get the feel of it. "I think I'm getting the hang of this." He dodged another beam blast from his simulated opponent's gun. "OK, dodged a bullet there." He gripped the controls and quickly zoomed around the path of bullets, going left and right.
"OK, this model has no long-ranged weapons," Shinichi recalled when he put the SD Musha Gundam together. He had a katana and naginata equipped to his Gunpla. "Wait, I'm an SD. My size is my advantage!"
The SD Musha Gundam hid behind a floating piece of debris and waited for his opponent. THE RX-78-2 floated by and Shinichi instantly responded. "Now!" His SD Musha Gundam drew its blade and shot at his opponent. The drone Gundam turned in time only to have its right arm severed by the blade. The droid Gunpla not only lost its right arm, but its gun as well. "Hah! Hah! Hyah!" The droid Gundam raised its shield to defend as Shinichi hammered away with his SD Musha Gundam's sword. At the last moment, it pulled back its shield and smashed it against the SD Musha Gundam. Shinichi grunted from the blow, but quickly shook it off.
The battle was being displayed via a holographic screen above the table.
"So, do you think Shin can win this?" Takeru asked Netto.
"It looks like he knows what he's doing," Netto answered. "I have no doubts."
The droid Gundam discarded its shield and then drew one of its beam swords from its back. The SD Musha Gundam parried a blow with its katana. Shinichi then had his Musha Gundam back away with its thrusters.
"OK, short arms and legs. Gonna need to switch weapons," Shinichi frowned as he drew his naginata. The droid Gundam shot towards him and he blocked with his naginata's shaft. The droid Gundam's blade sliced the shaft in half. Suddenly, the SD Gundam was grabbed by the head and the droid Gundam ran it through.
"Oh, not good!" grimaced Takeru. The enemy Gunpla then withdrew his blade as the SD Musha Gundam exploded.
"Battle Ended!"
As the holographic field vanished, the SD Musha Gundam lay in pieces in the middle of the table. Shinichi's eyes were cast down and his shoulders trembled.
"Shinichi, are you...?" Netto started. Was Shinichi upset over his loss?
"That...that was..." Shinichi eyes shone in excitement, "AWESOME!"
"You're not upset that you lost?" Netto asked as Shinichi picked up his dismantled SD Musha Gundam.
"Netto, I'm just a beginning. Losing against a drone like that was probably expected. Now I know what I gotta do. I need to build a new Gunpla, and practice!" Shinichi smiled. "Think I can convince Fran-san to buy me one of these tables so I can practice at home?"
"Knowing her, I'm sure she wouldn't mind," Netto said. "She's seems generous enough."
"And to think, the first ever tournament is going to be held right here! I'm gonna go back, take one of my Gunpla, and customize the shit out of it!" Shinichi exclaimed.
"He seems excited," Ranko remarked.
"Yeah, he's a total nerd," Takeru sighed, sweatdropping.
On a balcony above them and leaning on the rails, the mysterious Korean girl also watched the battle that took place. "So, that's where you've been, #13," she smiled. Her eyes turned to Netto, and her smiled turned into a grin, revealing a pair of long and pointed fangs. "And such a tasty friend you have..." she said slyly, licking her fangs.
The week continued onward without incident, allowing Shinichi to build and customize his Gunpla without interruptions. For the most part at least. Netto was building his own Gunpla, with some help from Shinichi. Though for a beginner it was flawless. Finally, the day of the Gunpla Tournament arrived and they were all gathered in the stadium, this time joined by the respective harems of both boys. Shinichi looked at the Gunpla he was using for the tournament. His was a custom Gundam Death Scythe he called "Deathscythe Dusk". It was based on the Gundam Deathscythe, but customized to resemble his Rider form to an extent.
"This Gunpla thing certainly is popular, isn't it?" Kiko said, looking around the large crowd before them.
"Yeah, a lot of people really showed up," Qiao added.
"Mostly Gundam fans," Shinichi replied.
"I can see that," Kurumu grimaced at the sight of the Gundam otaku who didn't look attractive. They were mostly geeky and nerdy and were just coming to see Gundam fight it out in real life.
"Shinichi-kun, how are you feeling right now?" Moka asked curiously.
"A little nervous. My first real tournament. I mean, I know I built my Gunpla well enough, but I'm new compared to others who have been customizing Gunpla for years," Shinichi replied.
"Shinichi, you could be a way better Fighter than them," Mizore pointed out.
"I know, but I just recently got into the craft months ago," Shinichi replied. "Most of these guys have years under their belt. They could even be experts."
"At building, not battling," argued Ruby.
"Yeah, well fighting in real life rather than augmented reality are two different things," he reminded her. "Besides, this isn't life and death. It's all in good fun. I don't wanna get too competitive."
"But isn't it sad to see the Gunpla you built being damaged in battle?" Moka asked.
"A bit, but I could always repair it. I made sure to make spare parts," Shinichi told her. "Hey, Netto. How about you? Feeling excited?"
"You sure about this, Shinichi?" Netto asked, uncertain.
"Sure, man! You'll do fine! It's all fun and games so don't worry about it," Shinichi reassured him.
"May I have your attention please!" the announcer said over the speaker, "Round 1 of the Gunpla Battle Tournament is about begin. Will the contestants please enter the stage at this time?"
"That's your cue," Takeru said, "Good luck out there. Don't be a total noob!"
"Your support fills me with confidence," Netto said dryly. He walked down the steps and went onto the stage.
"Did you really have to go and say that?" Kiko asked, narrowing her eyes.
"Hey, you can't be too serious now and again," Takeru waved off. "Still, I'm surprised you managed to talk him into doing this Gunpla thing, Shinichi."
"What can I tell you? It's not just about building models," Shinichi chuckled. Out of reflex, he saw the familiar face of Aoi leaning against the railing, also watching the stage. His pupils shrank at the sight. Noticing that he was being watched, Aoi turned up and gave a short wave.
"Shinichi-kun? Is something the matter?" Moka asked, worried.
"Huh?" Shinichi blinked, looking at her. "Ah, it's nothing." Moka cocked an eyebrow, not convinced. Still, she decided to drop it.
"This is going to sell!" Ranko smiled, pulling out her camera.
Netto reached the stage and came face to face with his opponent, a girl of Korean descent, and the same one Aoi spoke to a week before. She was dressed in a green cheongsam with a silver snake, trimmed in gold, patterned around her dress. She also has fingerless green gloves that showed of her polished green nails and green heels.
"Woah-ho-ho!" Takeru cat-called as he ogled the girl. "What a babe! If girls that hot play with Gundam models too then sign me up!"
"Takeru, do you always have to hit on every pretty girl you see?" Saji sighed.
"Yeah, give it a break will ya?" Shinichi scolded. Still he couldn't help but feel that the girl looked familiar somehow.
"I'm honestly surprised anyone as attractive as her would even be into something like this," Kurumu frowned, scratching her head in confusion.
"You can't judge a book by its cover, Kurumu," Shinichi advised. "Anyone can love Gunpla, even someone like her."
"I hope you'll go easy on me," the girl greeted to Netto with a playful wink. Qiao, Kiko and Usha all frowned as they saw her hitting on him. "So, you got a name boya?"
"It's Netto," he told her, trying to will himself from freaking out at another girl hitting on him, "Netto Kusanagi."
"My name is Xun Xiu Song," she replied. "My friends just call me Xun."
"Please set your GP Base," the computer of the stage instructed. Netto and Xun both placed their GB Bases on their spots of the stages, activating them. "Beginning Plavsky particle dispersal." A strange shimmer of blue sparkles shined out from the stage and glowed brightly. As the light cleared, the stage was now filled with a field of holographic flowers, "Field 3; Forest. Please set your Gunpla." Netto placed down his chosen Gunpla, a Red Zeta Gundam, on his base. Xun did the same with her Gunpla, a Cobra Gundam which had been customized to have more feminine proportions including a slimmer body, cleavage, and a veil over the face, resembling an Arabian belly dancer. Light shined around both Gunplas. As they glowed faintly, their eyes flashed and they both became active. Hard light controls appeared before them and they got their hands on it.
"Xun Xiu Song and Nuwa Gundam! Moving out!"
"Netto Kusanagi and Red Zeta Gundam! Mission start!"
The two Gunpla were launched out of the launch tubes and they exited onto the battle zone. They landed in the forest, facing each other. It was a very beautiful forest, but it would soon turn into a battlefield between these two machines.
"Nuwa Gundam?" Shinichi observed. It was a Cobra Gundam, of course, but heavily customized to look more feminine.
"That's one sexy Gunpla," remarked Takeru. "Wonder what it can do."
"According to its original specs, it should have a flamethrower. Though, that is its default weapon. It could have something else added depending on the builder," Shinichi replied. Gundam Builders enjoyed customizing, adding new things to their Gundams to make them truly unique.
"Is that allowed?" Yukari asked.
"Gunplas can be considered an extension of the builder. It's fine to use Gunplas based on famous Gundams and mobile suits, but customization shows off the uniqueness and your way of fighting." Shinichi told her. "I'm betting that Nuwa Gundam was designed for quick strikes and to be more elusive than the average Gundam."
"It is a snake after all," Usha commented. "The snake is known for its slippery movements and swift attacks."
"Battle Start."
Both Gunplas darted forward, charging full force at one another. Reaching around its back, the Red Zeta Gundam pulled out a pistol and fired beam shots at its target. The Nuwa Gundam twisted left and right, quickly avoiding the shots before they got near. The Nuwa Gundam crossed its arms and steel blades extended from the wrists. There were two blades on each wrist, curved like fangs. Darting forward like a cobra, the Nuwa Gundam struck the hand holding a pistol. Netto was alerted to the damage on the hand before his Gunpla was slashed twice across the chest.
"Oh no!" Qiao gasped.
"I know it's just a model, but it's a shame to see it so damaged," Usha frowned.
"He worked so hard on it," Qiao recalled.
"Crapbaskets!" Netto cursed, seeing his Gunpla's HP meter get down significantly. "A CQC type Gunpla, huh? Alright then!"
Netto activated his weapon's system and selected a beam saber from the slot. In response, the Red Zata Gundam whipped it a bladeless hilt and activated it, emitting a beam of red energy. The Nuwa Gundam was elegantly dodging the Red Zeta Gumdam's blade, swinging its hips provocatively as it performed a belly dance in the middle of battle. The swaying hips had quite the hypnotic effect, even if it was on a plastic model. The audience didn't seem time mind as they all roared ecstatically, with blood blowing out of their noses like fountains.
"They seriously need to get laid," Kurumu muttered, groaning with a face palm.
"They are hardcore fans, Kurumu," Shinichi defended. Shinichi's gaze concentrated on the girl Netto was battling with. There was something eerily familiar about her. Something about her fighting style.
"But there's more to life than plastic models." She traced circles around his chest. "You should know that, right?" she whispered huskily.
"Well... sure," Shinichi muttered, blushing as he turned away slightly.
"Temperature rising," Ranko muttered, writing on her notepad as she watched them both.
"Aw, what's the matter? Did you lose your rhythm?" Xun taunted teasingly. "Come on now. If you can't feel the beat, you're just gonna trip up!" the Nuwa Gundam lunged again, breaking out of its hypnotic trance. The Red Zeta Gundam quickly jumped over at the last minute and landed a kick at its back, causing it to sumble. Then it followed with quick beam strikes across the chest. The Nuwa Gundam backed off quickly, and then looked down to see a few red lines burning on its midsection.
"That wasn't very nice," Xun frowned.
"Call it payback," Netto shrugged. "You know, you're pretty good. I thought there were only beginners in this tournament," Netto spoke. The communication screen displayed his opponent's face.
"Oh, let's just say I've been practicing," the Xun replied. "By the way, how about we make this game a little interesting."
"What do you mean?"
"A wager."
"What kind of wager?" Netto cocked an eyebrow.
"You're cute. How about if I win, I get to have you for the whole day and we can do everything and anything I want?" Xun spoke flirtingly as she winked.
Netto turned beet red. "H...huh?"
"Hm? You wanna chicken out?" Xun teased.
"Huh?! No, I'm not chickening out!" Netto exclaimed, his face still red. "And what do I get if I win?"
"Hm..." Xiu hummed as she rubbed her chin. "I'll let you decide. I'd rather concentrate on winning."
"You say that like you're about to win," Netto remarked.
"Well, I do, because I can do this!" She twisted her controls to display her weapons before selecting one.
Xun transformed her Gunpla, changing the legs into a long serpentine tail. She then bashed the tail of her Gunpla against Netto's Zeta Gundam, almost knocking it down. The tip of her Gunpla's tail resemble a rattlesnake's.
"Guess I should've seen that coming!" Netto grunted, struggling to get the Gunpla back on it's feet.
The Nuwa Gundan leapt upward and then then dove down to burrow underground. Netto had too look around, trying to find his now out of sight opponent.
"She just escaped underground!" blurted out Moka.
"A tactical retreat," Shinichi uttered. "She's obviously planning to ambush Netto. It's quite a good plan."
"A bit underhanded, if you ask me," Qiao said.
"Heh, it's strategy. In a real fight, there ain't no rules and since she ain't being called out on it, it should be perfectly legal," Saji remarked.
"As long as you custom your Gunpla to make it work, it's legal," Shinichi added. "What matters is how your opponent gets around it." He asked Qiao, "Do you think he has a chance?"
"Well, based on how we train he isn't so good with surprises," Qiao stated, "But he always manages to recover with a counter."
"Should be interesting to see how he deals with this variable," Shinichi observed. The more he watched, the more excited he got. Just when would his turn come?
Netto took a deep breath and concentrated. His opponent definitely knew how to mess with his head. 'Gotta find out where she's gonna jump out,' Netto thought to himself. 'This girl really knows what she's doing...'
The Nuwa Gundam blasted out of the ground behind the Red Zeta and stabbed its fang blades into its back. Electricity sparked out of the Red Zeta as the blades protrude out of its chest.
"Oh wow, you are so tight!" Xun smiled in what seemed to be a rather suggestive moan, "This must be your first time. I'll try and be gentle... maybe!"
"Shoot!" Netto grunted from the blow, twiddling his controls. "Alright, changing tactics!"
The Red Zeta gripped the blades as it mounted its feet, slowly pushing upward and back. The Nuwa Gundam struggled back, pushing it's blades in further. With a sharp shove, it pushed the Nuwa Gundam up into the air. The Nuwa Gundam's tail coiled to cushion itself from the fall as the Red Zeta staggered back somewhat, lighting sparking from the wounds.
"You know, if you don't want to continue this you can always forfeit," Xun suggested tauntingly. "Don't worry though, I can be very good company."
"Sorry, but I'm in no mood for losing," Netto replied.
"Well sorry, but neither am I," the Nuwa Gundam's tail pointed at the Red Zeta and launched a flamethrower at it. The Red Zeta quickly took the opportunity to duck and cover. This was harder to do from the damaged it sustained, as it was stumbling as it went. It was getting some burns thanks to the handicap, but Netto wasn't about to let that stop it.
"An opening!" Xun called out, forcing the Nuwa Gundam forward, the blades on its arms flashing. At the same time, Red Zeta Gundam reached for something around its back.
SHING! SLASH!
The audience all gasped at the screen. Shinichi's eyes bulged, Qiao covered her mouth, and everyone in general went silent. The Nuwa Gundam had pierced through the Red Zeta Gundam's chest, but the Red Zeta Gundam had managed to jam a combat knife into the Nuwa Gundam's face, ripping the head right off the body. Both Gundam's stood stationary before the both toppled over one another and exploded in a bright flash of light.
"Battle ended!"
The holographic field vanished and both Gunpla were in the center of the stage, laying in pieces. The audience went silent for a moment. And then, slowly, applause sounded in the arena with everyone standing up as they all clapped.
"That was pretty good, for a beginner," Shinichi smiled as he applauded. "Too bad it ended in a draw though."
"I really did wanna see him win, though," Qiao admitted. "But I guess it doesn't come easy."
Xun sighed as she picked up the pieces of her Gunpla, "Good game. Nice save you pulled there," she admitted, "Too bad I didn't win. I was really looking forward to spending time with you."
Netto shrugged. "Maybe some other time."
"That's a promise, then," Xun winked, "Wish I can stay for the rest of the matches though. I just came to kill time since I have another engagement. Later, handsome." She teasingly waved her fingers at him before walking off. Picking up the pieces of his Gunpla, Netto walked back up to the audience to meet up with his friends.
"You did good out there, Airen," Qiao congratulated, rewarding her boyfriend with a hug and a kiss on the cheek, "Too bad about the draw though."
"It wasn't too bad," Netto smiled, "I had fun."
"Your Gunpla got a bit dinged up," Shinichi studied Netto's Gunpla. It had gained a lot of battle damage. "If you need any replacement parts, I could loan you some."
"Keep them. You're gonna need them," Netto declined politely. "Besides, I know it's good to always have my own replacement parts ready."
"Well, at least you came prepared," Shinichi replied.
"That was so awesome!" Yukari exclaimed. "I was at the edge of my seat!"
"I guess it was cool," Mizore said coolly.
"You're opponent did seem a bit too friendly with you though," Kiko pointed out.
"Yeah, maybe just to psych me out," Netto replied.
"I should hope so," Usha said.
"Attention. Round 2 of the Tournament is about to start," the announcer said on the loudspeaker. "Will the competitors of the match please approach the stage at this time?"
"That one's for me," Shinichi nodded. "Looks like I'm up."
"Good luck out there!" Kurumu cheered. "Kick their ass!"
"We'll root for you!" Yukari nodded, smiling. Shinichi smiled back as he head on down to the floor and approached the Gunpla Battle System table.
"Alright," Shinichi looked at the Gunpla he had built for this tournament and looked up at his opponent who stood across from him. "Hey, let's have a good match." His opponent said nothing as he began to set up his Gunpla. "Okay..."
"Please set your GP Base."
As instructed, Shinichi placed his GP Base onto the console port. The GP Base displayed his name, under Builder and Fighter. The holographic cockpit generated around him.
Back where the audience stood, a familiar blond with bolts on her head squeezed through the crowd and came up to the group of friends. "Am I late?" Fran asked.
"No, you're just in time," Moka smiled.
"Well, Shinichi expects me to watch his first match," Fran said. She then waved, "Shinichi!"
Shinichi heard his name being called and looked up to see Fran. He smiled and waved back.
"Field 9; Canyon. Please set your Gunpla."
Shinichi placed his Gunpla on the launcher and placed his hands on the control spheres.
"Battle Start."
"Shinichi Sanban! Gundam Deathscythe Dusk, let's ride!" Shinichi declared.
Aoi watched as Shinichi's Gunpla was launched and admired its construction, "Looks like you're really serious about this." Customization was mostly for show, but in a Gunpla Battle, it determined the stats and performance of the Gunpla.
The Canyon field was set at night and it looked so realistic. Shinichi piloted his Gunpla over the battlefield, looking for his opponent.
"Where are you...?" Shinichi whispered as he kept his senses alert. Instead of a standard scythe, the Deathscythe Dusk generated a pair of curved energy blades from its wrists. Suddenly, he received an alert alarm as his screens flashed 'WARNING' signs. At that moment, he dodged a beam aimed for his right flank.
"There you are!" Shinichi's front screen showed him his opponent. The Gunpla they had chosen was an MS-06S Zaku II Commander Type with a camouflage paintjob. His enemy had exposed themselves. "You're mine now!" He activated his Gunpla's back thrusters and soared towards his target for sure.
The large screen displaying the battle was seen by Shinichi's friends.
"This should be an easy win for Shinichi," Mizore observed.
"I can't be sure about that," Moka frowned.
As the Deathscythe Dusk went to land a slash, the Zaku II Commander Type suddenly vanished into thin air.
"Huh!?" Shinichi blinked but then he saw multiple Zaku II Commander Types surrounding him. "HUH!?"
"What!?" yelled Kurumu. "What's going on!?"
"It seems that Shinichi's opponent has some tricks of his own," Fran guessed as she watched the battle.
"OK, OK, calm down," Shinichi whispered to himself. "Don't freak out. The rules say only one Gunpla per fighter. That means the others are illusions." The Zaku Commander Types began to fly around him in formation. One of them soared at him and landed a punch across his Gunpla's faceplate, causing damage. "Argh!" The attack resumed with the illusionary Zakus all flying around, giving the real one cover to land blows.
"That can't be fair," Moka frowned.
"It's a game of strategy. As long as rules aren't broken, anything goes," stated Saji.
"Alright! That's it!" Shinichi yelled as his eyes glowed. "I didn't want to reveal this until the final match, but you left me with no choice!" The Deathwing Dusk suddenly vanished into thin air. The Zaku II Commander Types looked confused when all of a sudden one of them had an explosion from behind, causing the illusions to vanish.
"Optical camouflage," Aoi's eyes widened as he watched the Deathscythe Dusk reappear.
"And this is the end of the match!" Shinichi declared as he thrust both his curved blades into the shoulders and made matching diagonal cuts across the Zaku II Commander Type's body. There was a purple explosion before the machine declared:
"Battle Ended!"
The holographic field collapsed as the Plavsky Particles were returned to the machine. Both Shinichi's Gunpla and pieces of his opponent's now lay on the table. The crowd cheered at the conclusion of the match, with Shinichi being the victor.
"I won?" Shinichi asked himself. He slowly felt himself grinning as realization sank in. "Yes! I won! I'm so badass!" he cheered with a fist pump.
"Yay! Yay Shinichi!" Yukari cheered.
"I have to admit, that was rather entertaining," Usha smiled softly, applauding.
"He's always been practising. Looks like it's payed off," Fran smiled brightly.
"Ata boy, Shin! Good goin'!" Saji cheared.
Out from the other side of the audience, there was a young man who looked rather... odd. He was wearing a black leather vest with a black shirt and white pants. His eyes were in an icy blue color with limp blonde hair, and his face looked rather handsome. But the odd part was that his skin looked very pale, almost as if he had been frozen in time. And rather than applauding, he simply sat with his arms folded. Reaching into his pocket, he pulled out a straw and plucked it into his mouth. And then he blew sharply. If one had swift reflexes, they could see that it was a black computer chip with tendrils waving around, squealing. It's target, the back of the neck of Shinichi's opponent, who was stewing in his defeat to even notice something pricking his neck.
The result was instant.
"AAAAAAAAHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!" the crowd all stopped their the cheers as they watched Shinichi's opponent suddenly fall on his knees and screaming in agony. Almost everyone thought that it was a case of being a sore loser, but it turned out not to be so as his entire body morph began to morph. Shinichi growled as the worst possible thing began to appear right before him as Ranko had her camera pointed at the boy as he transformed into a humanoid monster, a Freak, right before their eyes.
The Freak stood on two legs, and had a humanoid body. Extending from its abdomen were insect-like legs. His hands ended in pincer-like claws as a dark carapace covered his body. Its head resembled a scorpion's with a long thick tail extending from the top of its head down to its knees, ending with a stinger.
"Not another one!" exclaimed Takeru as Ranko was snapping photos. The Scorpion Freak roared in a berserker rage before eyeing Shinichi before him. Instinctively, it charge through the Gunpla Battle System table, shredding it in two, and rushed at the boy as he stood his ground. It grabbed Shinichi and charged through the doors, knock them off the hinges.
"Shin! No!" Takeru shouted as Saji dragged him towards the exit by his wrist.
"Come on, Takeru! We gotta move!" Saji shouted.
"What are you blind?! That monster just took off with Shin!" Takeru tore himself free from Saji's grip. "I'm coming, buddy!"
"Oh, damn that stupid!" Saji went after Takeru to help Shinichi too.
"Oh my! Oh my!" Fran exclaimed as she and Ranko chased after the boys. As unexpected as things turned out, it was another opportunity to study the Freaks. Hopefully this one has yet to reach it's final stages.
As the crowd began to run out of the the arena in a panic, the pale boy simply nodded as he calmly disappeared along with the audience. It was time for him to get on the move as well.
"How did they managed to make a Freak all the way in here?!" Kurumu asked over the screams of the crowd.
"I don't know! But we have to find where Shinichi went to!" Moka shouted back. "But where could they've gone?"
"And where's Netto? We lost him too!" Qiao added.
"Oh, geez! Look!" Kiko pointed below them. On the very spot the stood on, a blue electric light lit up in a circle. The girls were unable to scream as the light engulfed all of them. The light faded quickly out, let the girls open up their eyes. Looking around, they found themselves standing atop of the roof of the building.
"The roof?" Ruby muttered, "How did we get here?"
"That would be my doing," the girls turned around behind them, seeing a young man leaning against a steam pipe. He took his hands out of his pockets as he stood up straight with a lukewarm smile. "Sorry bout this, but I'm gonna have to keep you girls preoccupied for now," Aoi said apologetically.
Ending theme: Good Fight by Trocadero
TAILSMO4EVER: So sorry about the long wait. I've been so busy that I haven't had much time like I used to. Also to "Guest", I don't know much about Sonic Chronicles and I'm not doing much Sonic and Sailor Moon X-Overs right now. Maybe someday but not right now.