Fen: Hey guys! Fen and Fang for another chapter of Kamen Rider Agito: Rekka no Ken!

TWF: *cosplay as Terminator* DUN, DUN! DUN! DUN, DUN! :D

Fen: Uh… what are you doing… again?

TWF: Someone just got terminated in the story… and I didn't get the chance to pull the trigger! D:

Fen: You were going to… you know what, I'm not gonna even question it. Let's just go…

TWF: You are terminated. :D I always wanna say that!

Fen: Starting chapter now!

TWF: *in a thick Arnold Schwarzenegger's voice* DO IT! DO IT NOW! D:

Disclaimer: Same thing.


How could this happen?

How could this even be possible?

I thought for sure we would be able to save Lord Elbert… but we failed.

After burying Lord Elbert on the Dread Isle, we headed back to the mainland. The whole ship was silent, as we were trying our best to keep up with the events going on. "…" Eliwood didn't say a word, keeping himself isolated from others inside one of the cabins.

I myself wasn't doing any better. I sat in the corner of my cabin with Lyn sitting next to me as I laid my head on her chest.

"I let another good man die…" I muttered sadly.

"You can't blame yourself, beloved…" she said. Oh, just to let you guys know, She'd only called me by that whenever we're alone. We decided on that right before the battle back at the Dragon's Gate. "You've done everything you can, but it ended up like Hannah foretold."

"Still… First General Eagler, now Lord Elbert… Who's next?" I muttered again.

"It's possible that… we're next." Lyn muttered. "Especially Eliwood and-"

"No, don't say that…!" I said clutching onto her. "Don't even think about that. I don't want to lose you!"

"I'm sorry…" Lyn apologized, now hugging my head more dearly. "It was insensitive of me to think of it, especially in this dire time…"

"It's just…" I got out, as I had tears coming down my eyes. "Why did this have to happen…?"

"…" Lyn remained silent, not knowing how to respond to my question. "I don't know, beloved… I just don't know…"

"I don't know what to do now, Lyn… I don't know…" I sobbed, damping her dress.

"Please don't cry…" Lyn persuaded kindly. "It breaks my heart seeing you like this, beloved…"

I didn't say anything else as I kept crying silently in her embrace.


Unknown to them, Ninian was standing at the step, overheard the conversation of Lyn and Kurogasa. Looking to where Eliwood is at, she could only clutches her chest lightly, unable to understand the pain she felt. "…Eliwood…"


Once, dragons and men coexisted.

They shared a peace forged in wisdom, a peace that lasted many generations.

All was lost when mankind disrupted this balance in a sudden onslaught.

Man fought dragon in a savage war that shook the foundations of their world.

This war was called The Scouring.

Defeated and humbled, dragons vanished from the realm.

In time, man rebuilt and spread his dominion across the land and on the islands beyond.

A millennium has passed since those dark days ended.


(Cue Brand–New World by Shiena Nishizawa)

(Instrumental) The screen began with the Golden Agito insignia forming in the black background. It started to shrink into a Seed of Agito. As the music began to play, when another scene revealed itself, the seed entered into a baby in young Elimine's arm, with the dragon behind her. The screen faded and reappeared three more times, replaced with the Eight Heroes and First Agito. Followed by Lyndis's Legion. And finally, it showed Lyndis's group along with Eliwood's and Hector's altogether with Kurogasa's small group. The screen then zoomed in on Kurogasa's face that soon changed into Agito's helmet before the screen faded to reveal the title. Moments later, the title and screen shattered.

(Kiri ni umore~ru asa wa~, mada shiranai~ kage o utsusu~ (By! My! Side!)) The scene starts with Lyndis's Legion, standing back–to–back in a circle and Kurogasa stood in the middle of it. All but Kurogasa looked forward, parting ways. Lyn, Kent, Sain, Florina and Wil headed towards the castle, Erk and Serra towards the road, Nils and Ninian held hands while walking towards the city and Rath trotted his horse towards the desert. Dorcas, Wallace, Lucius, and Matthew went their separate ways. As Kurogasa stood there, he gazed forward with a determined look, walking alone.
(Yugami saki ho~koru basho~, nobasu te ga, mogaite kizanda jikan ni yure~ta) The scenery changed with sakura petals flying over, as the confident Kurogasa continued walking with both his feather necklace and bracelet, now with Hiroji and Karla by his side. They saw three groups heading towards them. While reuniting with Lyndis's Legion, the other two consists of Eliwood, Marcus, Lowen, Rebecca, Bartre and Isadora in one group and the other being Hector, Oswin, Guy, Merlinus, Priscilla, Raven, and Harken on the other.

(Tada itamu no ka? Mite egaku no ka? Boku no kanjou wa…) At the pier, Canas walked around, as Dart was loading off some crates, while Geitz was hanging around the crates, letting out a yawn. A travelling swordsman, Karel, just happened to walk past Heath with his wyvern, keeping his stoic expression.
(Where is the truth? Doko ni kakusu no? Nageki mo sezu…) The screen split itself into two, each with a black and white background. On the black side, it showed former Black Fang units such as Legault, Nino, Jaffar and Vaida while the white side revealed Pent, Louise, Hawkeye, and Athos. Renault and Gills appeared in between the two sides, showing a serious look while Gill let out a roar before the scene changed.

(Kaze ga fukinukete yuku~ sora wa~…) As the scene moved to the sky, Florina, Farina and Fiora soared with their Pegasi, forming a Triangle attack. It was then followed by Heath and Vaida on their wyverns. As the screen zoomed down, it showed Serra and Karla, standing back–to–back. As the screen faded to black, a tear ran down from the two silhouettes, as ripples appeared on the screen. On cue, the screen started cracking before it shattered completely, moving to the next scene.

(Kakero! Kirameki me o samashita koe ga, takaku tsugeta (Free myself!)) G3–X let loose with his Cerberus, shooting the monsters inside the temple. As he shot out his missile, it exploded, giving Agito and the Three Great Lords behind him to make their way towards the Dragon's Gate.
(Yuzurenai negai ga (Remember!) arun darou?)
Gills broke off from his seal, letting out a monstrous roar before the Gills Stinger and Filler behind him spread out. As it disrupted the screen, it was already in the air, delivering the Exceed Heel Claw attack.
(Dakara sou yuiitsu muni no shoudou hashirasete~ (Keep my faith!))
As Kurogasa continued to run forward, swords clashed between Eliwood and Lloyd, followed by sparks from Hector's and Linus's axes. Near the end of it, Ursula volleied light attacks, as Lyn fended her off while dual wielding Mani Katti and Sol Katti in hand.
(Mamori sugita (Realize!) egao mukae ni)
Kurogasa kept running forward, his armor quickly changing from Ground Form, to Flame Form, followed by Storm Form, Saint form and finally Trinity Form before the El Lords hovred before him. Karel, Pent, Louise, Hawkeye, Dorcas and Renault fight off against them, giving Agito the space needed before rushing forward.

(Nakisakende kao o dashita yowasa no keshin mo~!) Nergal opened up the Dragon's Gate, chuckling darkly as his morphs, Ephidel and Limstella looked on. The dragons made their escape from the Gate while spewing flames on the screen.
(Subete komete tokihanate~! Brand–new World!)
Athos then used his magic to make a fake sun making Agito shatter away his Burning Form, to reveal his Shining Form. Agito jumped in the air wielding his two Shining Calibers, as he clashed with the Overlord of Darkness head on. The screen revealed behind Agito's helmet, Kurogasa, letting out a roar as the two sides clashed, blinding the whole view.

(Instrumental) The screen then faded into a view, where there was an open desert. The camera then zoomed to a single tent at the far end of the desert, ending with the camera panning on the highest desert hill, where the hilts of Mani Katti and Shining Caliber crossed together, tied with a feather necklace and bracelet.


Chapter 21: New Resolve

At last, Eliwood's long–awaited reunion with his father, as well as their painful farewell.

After escaping the Dread Isle, they return to the port city of Badon.

Eliwood remains silent for the duration of their passage, grief stricken at his father's death.

Hector can find no words to comfort his friend.


Soon we arrived back at Port Badon and we all got off the ship. Most of us were silent and somber, feeling tired and exhausted after the journey. Everyone was a bit silent, even for Hiroji who loves to speak about random things. I was at a loss of what to do from here, until Marcus recommended me with an idea of staying in Port Badon for a few days, so that Eliwood can gather his thoughts back wanting to give some time for the two Tornadors to reassemble back its pieces back to two caravans.

What's more surprising for me is Hector was also silent on the way back, too, which is kinda rare to see. As much as I want to tease him, there is a time and place for everything.

We decided to stay in the area for the next few days, giving most of our members free time to do things to give them back strength after staying in the ship for so long. While they are doing some of their things, Eliwood, Hector, Lyn, Ninian, Nils and I were staying by the pier, where Eliwood usually stayed to see where the Dread Isle was at, trying to get his mind off from the recent events.

"Ninian, are you feeling better now?" Lyn asked.

"Yes…" she nodded.

"That's good to hear." Lyn smiled a bit before turning to Nils. "And you've grown, haven't you Nils?"

"It seems like it's been so long." Nils replied. "And you too, Agito!"

"Yeah, it's been a while. Even though it's only been a year since I saw you last." I nodded.

"So much has happened since we left you and Caelin." Nils added. Looking at both Lyn and I, Nils noticed something between us and asked, "Something did happened before we meet again, huh?"

"Yeah. You could say that." I smiled a bit at Lyn as I held her hand.

"I never thought you'd be marrying her in some time, Agito! I know it's late hearing it from me, but congratulations on your marriage, on behalf of me and my sister!" Nils smiled, still keeping the same enthusiasm like in our old warring days.

"Thanks Nils, that means a lot to us." Lyn smiled.

"Hey, care to talk about things the rest of us can follow?" Hector asked, wanting to not get off topic.

"Huh?" Nils noticed the big blue man before him. "Who's he?"

"This is Hector. He's Marquess Ostia's brother. Don't let his attitude fool you. He acts mean, but he's decent enough." Lyn teased.

"'Acts mean' seems pretty mean to me!" Hector huffed, giving her the stink eye.

"Heehee…" Lyn giggled, covering her mouth with her hand.

"Aw~, is Hector getting cranky wanky?" I teased too.

"Watch it, Tactician." Hector glared at me. "Don't make me kick you to the sea."

Ignoring his rebuke, Lyn shifted her attention, now presenting Eliwood to him. "And you might remember this one. He's…"

"Yep, I remember. He's the man who helped Ninian." Nils nodded. Looking at the young Lord, he asked, "You're Elbert's son, aren't you? Your red hair, gentle eyes, and even your voice. You're just like him."

Eliwood was silent for a moment before asking, "Where did you meet my father?"

"At the Dragon's Gate. He set us free after we'd been captured." Nils answered, before he his expression became a bit solemn. "We escaped in a small boat, but I was thrown out in a storm. When I woke up, I was back on Valor. For a time, I hid in the ruins by myself. Then… I sensed something really dangerous. When I raced to the Dragon's Gate, I… I saw everything."

"…Nils." Ninian murmured.

"When we pulled Ninian from the boat, she'd lost her memory. I can't believe we brought her right back to her captors though." Lyn sighed sadly. "What a horrible thing to do. I'm sorry Ninian."

"Lady Lyn… you did nothing wrong…" the Dancer shook her head. Before I could say anything, she already beats me to it. "When Nils fell overboard, I didn't know what to do. I became lost within myself… If only I'd been stronger…" she was silent before she bowed at us slowly, surprising us a bit. "All of this could have been avoided… I am… truly… sorry."

"Ninian, you're not to blame." I said, holding her shoulders, making her look up at me. "If anything, it's Nergal's fault that all this happened."

"But why did Nergal wanted Ninian so bad? And you, too?" Hector looked at Nils.

"Ninian's power is greater than mine, but it costs her physical and emotional strength. Nergal exploited that weakness…" Nils explained.

"…Was he after you because you have the power to call dragons?" Eliwood asked. Eliwood speaks up, trying to gather as much information as possible.

"I think it's because we can open the Dragon's Gate." Nils pondered. "Just calling them? Nergal can do that on his own."

"Are you serious?" Hector asked incredulously.

"Yes, but it requires a tremendous amount of quintessence." Nils said.

Lyn looked confused, "Quintessence?"

"That's what Nergal called it. The substance of the human spirit… Power. Energy. The essence of life itself." Nils explained. "…Nergal, he stole this quintessence. Even the Seeds of Agito amongst many, too."

"That bastard…!" I growled a bit.

"What happens to those whose quintessence and… Seeds are stolen?" Hector asked.

"…They… They die…" Nils trailed off.

"…" Lyn remained silent, knowing full well of the said answer.

"Neither Ninian nor I have that power. Lyn and Agito knows. We only have our special power…" Nils continued. "Nergal needed to gather a large amount of quintessence. So he sent his henchman, Ephidel, to get close to Marquess Laus. He sought to plant the seeds of war in Darin's power–hungry heart."

"…To what end?" Eliwood asked.

"The quintessence in each person varies in strength. A person of strong mind and body has hundreds of times more energy than the average person. The Seed bearers also have as much quintessence than normal, nearly as much as those who are filled with determination and despair at the same time. But I'm thinking there aren't many people like that, though." Nils pondered again. "It took too long for Nergal to find people with enough strength. Although it would take time, Nergal said the easiest way to get that much quintessence was by starting a war."

"So he planned to make up for quality with quantity huh?" I mused.

"Black–hearted fiend! Are all men nothing but pawns to him?" Hector snarled, punching his palm.

"Ephidel brought Elbert to the Dragon's Gate. He said he'd found the ideal source they had sought. Nergal's plans for war had been stopped, and yet…" Nils began.

"And yet?" I prompted.

"He was happy. He'd taken so much energy from the knights traveling with Elbert. He was sure he'd get even better quintessence from Elbert…"

"Nils!" Lyn chided.

"Oh," Nils gasped before turning to Eliwood. "I'm sorry… Lord Eliwood."

"It's all right…" Eliwood shook his head. "When we found my father at the Dragon's Gate, I knew his knights were no longer alive…"

"Eliwood…" Hector muttered.

"Your father told us that he had a son. He said you were blessed with natural fighting ability." Nils praised. "But he also told us you were compassionate and disdained fighting. He told us that his son would be a better ruler than he was."

"…" Lyn and I could remained silent, hearing his words out.

"He told us that he would sooner sacrifice himself than see his homeland, Lycia, embroiled in the flames of war." Nils noted.

"That's…" Eliwood got out.

"When we'd lost all hope at the Dragon's Gate, your father always spoke to us of happy things. Well, he mainly spoke of his cherished son and his dear wife, but Ninian and I… we loved him very much. The stories about his family…" Nils paused, before looking at Eliwood in the eyes. "They saved us."

Eliwood remained silent as he turned around with his head bowed down, I could see his body trembling as he clutched onto his chest."Father…"

"…" Hector remained silent… before he started to walk away?

"…Hector?" Lyn noticed.

"Where are you going?" I asked.

"We should let him be alone for a while…"

Lyn was silent as well before she said, "…Sure. Come on, Kurogasa, Ninian, Nils."

"Yeah…" I nodded.

"…As you say." Nils nodded before we head off elsewhere, leaving Eliwood alone.


"Oh, my babies! How I missed you so much!" Hiroji said, as a fountain of tears of joy flowing out like a waterfall, hugging them dearly.

"…I can never understand that man…" Lucius sweat dropped.

"He's truly a 'unique' character of his own rights..." Merlinus added.

"…" Erk remained silent, still trying to get a single color on one side.

"Erk? Something the matter?" Priscilla asked.

"No, it's nothing, just… trying to figure this out." Erk said, as he rotated the Rubik's Cube more.

"That… cube?" Priscilla blinked.

"Yes, Lady Priscilla. Hiroji gave it to me to solve." Erk noted.

"Yes, and so am I." Canas nodded lightly, as somehow, he's able to solve two different colors on the sides. "How intriguing this piece of invention Hiroji made up. It truly gave me time to think whenever I'm not into reading at that time."

"It really boggles the mind doesn't it." Erk stated.

"It truly does." Canas nodded.

"Why would he create such a thing?" Raven said, looking at the said cube. "He must be doing it for nothing."

"He wouldn't do things without a purpose…" Erk noted. "It… makes me think carefully before making a move. And please, if you said that he can't solve it, you're mistaken…"

"" Raven remained silent.

"What makes you say that, Erk?" Lucius asked.

"I can solve it with my eyes closed!" Hiroji stepped up, surprising them a bit. "Sorry if I got emotional with my babies. I just can't help but admire my caravans!"

"That's… very you, I should say…" Lucius noted.

"Still not finished?" Hiroji asked Erk.

"No. I'm still trying to figure it out."

"No worries. Like I said, take your time. You'll be able to solve it soon."

Erk could only nod before Kent and Sain arrived in the scene. "Hiroji, have you seen Kurogasa or Lady Lyndis around?" Kent asked.

"Nope. Why?"

"We saw a group of Black Fangs heading at towards us!" Sain got out. "Quickly, spread the news to everyone!"

"And I thought I could use this time to polish my armor…" Hiroji grumbled before everyone starts to spread elsewhere while Hiroji went back into the caravan, donning his armor. "Whelp, as long as there's chaos around, somebody needs to keep it under control."


"Are you sure it's okay, Hector?" Lyn asked.

"Huh?" Hector said confused.

"Shouldn't you be with him?" I clarified.

"Mmm… thought about it, but…" he paused, now looking at me. "There was someone else who looked ready to start crying, too."

"And what's that supposed to mean?" I frowned.

"You heard me, Tactician." Hector pointed out. "You stayed in your cabin for the rest of the trip after you failed to save his dad."

"I don't need you to remind me…" I muttered, looking away.

"All I'm saying is you don't have to blame it all on yourself." Hector pointed out, which… is a rare thing. "There are things that are bound to happen. You can't create miracles just by your shiny armor and wild swinging here and there."

"I never said that…"

"No, you didn't. But your actions do." Hector noted. "Call me silly or anything you like, but you can't fool my eyes, Tactician. That's what I saw in your eyes right now. I bet even Oswin or Marcus would say the same thing, too."

"…" I stayed quiet when I listened to what he said.

"Kurogasa…" Lyn muttered. "As much as I hate to admit it… Hector's right. You… haven't been yourself back at Dread Isle…"

"It's just…" I trailed off.

"You cries a lot along the way back, but you cried for a good reason…" Lyn noted. "And that very reason is why you have wavered your confidence again…"

"I guess… I guess that's what makes me human…" I muttered.

"Hey! Ninian's gone!" Nils noticed… as did we. When did she bail out on us? Or better yet, when did she leave us on her own? "Where'd she go? I'll go and look…"

"Hold on!" Hector said, tugging onto Nils' long scarf, stopping his tracks. "Your sister's been through a lot, too. Let her be for a while."

"I don't need you to tell me what she's been through!"

"Whoa Nils, calm down." I said, placing my hands on his shoulder. "Getting angry won't do you any good."

"But, Agito! He–" Nils tried to explain, but Lyn managed to look at him, shaking her head lightly. Eventually, all Nils could do is sigh, understanding the situation.

"So, what's the plan now, Tactician?" Hector asked me.

"I don't know…" I shook my head lightly.

"What about Elimine?" Lyn suddenly suggested.

"Elimine?" Nils looked at her.

"We… recently discovered who's his inner voice is." Lyn explained.

"What about her, Lyn?" I asked. "I still can't hear her. In fact, for some reason, she doesn't want to talk to me."

"Could it be because of the confrontation with the Overlord of Darkness?" Nils noticed.

"Maybe… I mean… I had this odd feeling that… Elimine might know him."

"What are you now, a fortuneteller?" Hector asked. "I bet you can't even read my mind right now, Tactician."

"Don't push your luck, buddy." I deadpanned. "But anyways, because of the book we found back at that old fortress, Elimine was strangely quiet, especially on our way back. I tried to access her place, but I can't seem to find her anywhere… and it's strange, too. I just had this feeling that Elimine and Overlord of Darkness seemed to be connected somehow…"

"She's not the only one you should be worry about, Agito!" Nils said. "Gills, too!"

"Oh yeah, His Excellency also keeps an eye out for him, just in case he lets loose on the innocents." Hector recalled. "Can't believe we brought him out from that island and into the mainland."

"But we couldn't just leave him there…" Lyn said. "He's an ally with no memories of the past and it's our duty to help him gain his memories, like Kurogasa helped Elimine with hers."

"Too many people have suffered during their time at the Dread Isle." Hector noted. "Eliwood isn't the only one, too."

"Yeah… Matthew was out of it when Leila died… and so is Fiora…" I trailed off. The rest of us were silent at that before Lyn spoke up.

"I wonder what happened to Nergal. Lord Elbert gave him a grievous wound when he stabbed him." Lyn remembered.

"His wounds will not kill him." Nils said.

"That's what Lord Elbert said, too. Do you know what he meant?" Hector asked.

"Nergal uses quintessence on himself as well. His wounds heal quickly… and his body does not age." Nils answered.

"So he isn't… human?"

"Is he like a Lord, too?" I asked.

"I can't tell…" Nils said. "…If nothing else, he's… ah!" Nils suddenly exclaimed, getting our attention.

"What is it?" Lyn questioned.

"Call everyone! Enemies approach!"

"Shoot, already?" I gritted.

"Bah. Eliwood deserves a little more time to rest…" Hector growled.

"Well then, we'll handle this ourselves, shall we?" Lyn said, drawing out her Mani Katti.

"You want to hear worse? It's about nighttime over here." Hector pointed out. Darn it, he's right! The sun's nearly set for the day and I can see lanterns lighting up the area, brightening our surroundings. "Looks like we can't plan things out as usual, Tactician. We better get ready for the worst possible time."

"Yeah…" I gritted. Damn it, this is not what I had in mind!


Meanwhile, Eliwood was still at the pier as he looked at the horizon, seeing where Dread Isle once was. As the sun continues to set, a small figure stood behind him, meters away from where he's at. She was nervous, that's for certain and she just couldn't help it but to feel worried for him, as well. Mustering up her courage, she began to approach him, while Eliwood didn't hear her light footsteps approaching him.

"Lord Eliwood…" A voice got out, making Eliwood turn around.

"Huh? Oh, Ninian… I didn't see you." Eliwood expressed. With a deep breath, he apologized, saying, "I'm sorry about before. I just… needed some time to think."

"…"

"Should you be here? You've had a rough time…" he said kindly, concerned for her wellbeing. "Your coloring is not very good. You should rest."

"…" Ninian remained silent, unable to explain why the circumstances are similar to how she was treated by a certain someone as well.

"Look at you, all scratches and bruises…" Eliwood said, noticing the said scratches on her arm and hand, as he held it gently in his own. "You need to be properly taken care of…"

"…Why?"

"Hm?" Eliwood looked at her, as she was already in tears.

"Why was Lord Elbert so… Lord Eliwood, why were you both… so kind to us?" she expressed herself, unable to contain her tears. "It's… This is… This is all my fault… These nightmares… All these terrible things…"

"Ninian, crying ill suits a girl of your beauty." Eliwood said, wiping her tears. "I'm fine… Please don't cry."

Ninian sobbed, as she had her head down. "I'm sorry… so… sorry…"

"There's something you must hear." Eliwood said, making her look at him. "You're not responsible for what happened to my father. You suffered as much as he did. Please don't punish yourself further."

Hearing his words somehow comforted her, but she just couldn't understand the other pain she felt inside her. Gazing upon his gentle eyes, she muttered lightly, "Lord Eliwood… I… I… Ah!" she suddenly gasped, holding her head in pain.

"Huh? What is it Ninian?" Eliwood asked worried.

"Enemies… Enemies draw near!"

"What?" Eliwood gasped.

"Lord Eliwood!" Marcus entered, finally finding him. "Kent and Sain found the Black Fangs entering the village. Everyone's back at the caravan, as we speak!"

"Thank you Marcus." Eliwood said before turning to Ninian.

"Let us… meet with others, Lord Eliwood" Ninian suggested.

"Right." Eliwood nodded.


"We got here as soon as we could!" Guy exclaimed.

"Is it true, little brother?" Serra asked. "Those Black Fangs are still after us?"

"Yeah… and we're still recovering. Crap…!" I cursed, punching one of the Tornadors.

"Kurogasa, calm down. You can do this. Just plan like you always do." Lyn assured.

"Planning isn't going to work this time…" Dorcas noted. "It would seem those Black Fangs caught us at our weakest moment."

"…" Nee–san remained silent, unable to respond anything.

"What do we do?" Kent asked. "In our condition, we're going to be slaughtered."

"True, we still need at least one more day of rest…" Canas noted.

"Here you all are!" we heard Eliwood's voice, followed by Ninian staying close to him.

"Ah!" Hector noticed.

"Eliwood!" Lyn gasped.

"Listen! Get ready for battle! I want to get this over with quickly to protect villagers. Meet the enemy commander, and drive them out of here!"

"Easier said than done…" I said. "We still don't have a proper plan, and those Black Fangs are closing in on us really fast!"

"What about you landlubbers using the same tactic on us to get our ship?" Dart suddenly suggested. "Ain't it workin' the first time?"

"You mean ambushing them?"

"Aye! Me and my shipmates are more than ready to strike 'em dead! They ain't gonna see it comin', my drunken mates ain't for sassy or wusses! Savvy?"

"I see." I said thinking about it. "Alright, we'll leave this to your crew. I'm sure Fargus would love to give them a good hacking."

"Does that mean we'll be using the same tactic like last time?" Sain asked.

"Same… tactic?" Renault looked at us.

"Grr…?" Gills growled slightly, trying to remain calm.

"Yep. Bloodless kill." I nodded.

"Even to a Black Fang?" Matthew looked at me. "Kurogasa, call me stupid or anything, but those Black Fangs are the reason why we're in this big mess in the first place!"

"Hey, it worked when we first encountered them. This shouldn't be any different."

"You're naive, Tactician." Hector said. "You wanted to spare our enemies? This isn't like how we going to get a ship to cross the sea. Surely, you have lost your touch."

"Well, what do you want me to do huh?! I'm trying to get us out of this mess! I'm–"

"Please, both of you, stop arguing!" Eliwood suddenly intervened. "Hector, Kurogasa, now isn't the time to argue with one another."

"Tch, seems like he still doesn't understand the situation we're in." Hector hissed.

"A bloodless kill." Raven spoke up. "You've gone soft, Tactician. Too soft for comfort. Is that the reason why your voice never listened to you now?"

"Lord Raven!" Lucius gasped.

"Shut your mouth! You don't know anything!"

"I don't need to know about a tactic that is going to spare our enemies out of pity." Raven said, starting to walk away. "I'll be the vanguard, trying to stop their advances. If you think his tactic is going to work, it's not going to happen. I can tell that you're losing your touch, Tactician." Raven added.

"Lord Raven, please wait!" Lucius said, immediately followed suit.

"Kurogasa…" Lyn said worried.

"Seems our discussion is now over." Hector said. "We'll use the same tactic, but this time, let loose on those Black Fangs."

"As you command, Lord Hector." Oswin nodded.

"Aye! I'll go get our mateys!" Dart grinned before suddenly darted off elsewhere.

"I can't work like this… I just can't…" I muttered as I walked away.

"Young'un." Hannah spoke up, now getting my attention. "I have received a prediction."

"Not now Hannah."

"Oh? Does that mean you do not want to hear another Lord is leading along with another man within the Black Fang?"

"What?" I gasped.

"Great… things have gotten worse!" Serra snapped.

"You know what they say, if you can't chop an enemy down… well, chop them again!" Bartre laughed out loud.

"Kurogasa, I know you're still distressed over this, but we need you now more than ever." Lyn said approaching me. "All I can do now is support you."

"Y–You're the only one… that can keep us from going astray…" Florina pleaded.

"And I still need to thank you for saving me back then… and I must repay your kindness with everything I have." Fiora added. "My lance is more than ready to be wield by you, Kurogasa."

"You guys…" I muttered.

"I believe in you. We all do. So please, be the tactician we know and love." Lyn encouraged.

"Lyn…" I muttered. She's right. This isn't the time to be moping around and panicking. I need to get myself together!

"If you're up and chirpy, let's get this party started!" G3–X grinned, wielding his Cerberus.

"Alright then… let's do this! Split into our three groups and give em hell!"

"Now that's what I call a plan!" Hector grinned. Focusing onto Nils, he said, "Hey, little guy! Go hide in the caravan!"

"No way! I can help you out!" Nils protested.

"Nils, you really are a big help, but… shouldn't you be with Ninian now?" Lyn asked.

"Ah… All right!"

"You heard the man, Kurogasa." Legault said. "Time to let loose on these boys."

"Let's go! Henshin!"


"They're here…" a Lord spoke up, standing next to the leader of the Black Fang. it has greyish humanoid body, with spiky armor on his chest and shoulder pads, a Spartan-like skirt, and having a head that resembled a piranha. On its hand, is a large trident.

This is the Fish Lord.

"...hiding within this village." The Fish Lord continued.

"Their punishment will be swift." the leader said. He was in his 30's with orange hair and a grey circlet over his forehead. He wore a green shirt with brown leather armor, with tan pants and brown boots. His name is Oleg. "Master Nergal stated the children are in here. Let's get rid of the resistance and claimed the lost children back to him."

"Agito shall die here, as well… for my Master's sake." the Fish Lord muttered, as they are slowly marching into the village.


"Ninian! Stop! Where are you going?" Nils asked Ninian, as she's already stood near the entrance of Tornador..

"I… I'm going to help!" She said as she tried to leave, but her brother held her arm.

"Oh, no, you're not! You're still too weak!"

"But… I merely wish to help Lord Eliwood… Even if just a little." Ninian said. "I… I stole his father's life from him… I know this… this will never make up for it… Nils! Please…"

Nils thought about it for a while before sighing. "…I understand. Give me your hands."

"Nils?" Ninian got out

"I'll give you some of my power. You'll just get in the way if you go out like this." Nils said.

"Nils, I'm sorry." She apologized before they held hands together and Nils glowed with a white aura before the aura transferred over to Ninian.

"Hm? What are those children doing?" Hannah asked.

"I don't know…" Merlinus shook his head.

"…Whew! That should do it. Help them for me, too."

"Thank you." Ninian thanked before running off. Unknown to her sister, Nils already felt tired from the transfer, as his body weakened from it.


"HYAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAH!" I yelled as I did a Rider Kick on a group of Black Fang members in my Burning Form, burning them to a crisp. I didn't stay long as I went berserk, punching all of them like there's no tomorrow.

"Little brother seems agitated for some reason…" Serra noticed.

"Yes… he cannot mend his anger…" Nee-san noted. "If he keep it up, he would only harm himself even more."

"He needs to let loose after all we've been through." Matthew said. "If I didn't know any better, he's going berserk so he can forget that he was an embarrassment to everyone."

"…" Nee–san remained silent before I got splashed by a strong water attack on my chest.

"GAAAH!" I cringed, clutching onto my chest.

"AGITO!" I heard a Lord calling out to me, pointing its dripping trident at my direction.

"El of the Water?! No way! I killed you!"

"I am not my commander, but I shall avenge it by killing you!" it roared before quickly charges forward.

"I'll burn you first before that happens!" I snapped.

"Little brother!" Serra exclaimed, quickly turning a few pages of her tome.

"Stay back, Serra! This is my fight!" I suddenly snapped, surprising her a bit.

"But–"

"RAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAGH!" I yelled before clashing with the Fish Lord.

"Let us… leave him be." Nee–san suggested.

"Are you sure?"

"Yes. This is one fight he wants to redeem himself after the failure…" Nee–san noted. "Come. There are others we need to aid."

"Y–Yes… you're right." Serra got out. "I just hope that after this, he won't be so sulking and feeling so stupid about everything he did."


"Hmph… that Tactician is a fool." Raven said after slashing a Mercenary.

"You didn't have to be so harsh." Lucius noted.

"He needs to learn the harsh truth of reality or he will never grow up." Raven noted.

"I truly wish you understood your own words, milord…" Lucius sighed lightly, unheard by Raven.

"Stop daydreaming and help me out, Lucius!" Raven said, quickly runs forward.

"Very well…" Lucius nodded.

"You… you're the Hurricane!" one of the Black Fang member got out, noticing Legault.

"Yes, that's right. And I'm sorry to inform that I am now your enemy."

"You're the traitor, then..." Oleg approached, standing before Legault in a distance.

"Well, well… if it isn't Oleg. Still around, I see."

"Petty talk won't work on me, Hurricane." Oleg said. "You have turned coat on us. The punishment for traitors is death."

"The Black Fang have lost their honor a long time ago." Legault said. "Ever since that woman took over, its been nothing but going downhill."

"Silence!" Oleg exclaimed. "All of you, scour this place. Let me deal with him."

"Not playing around, huh?" Legault smirked, drawing out his daggers. "I suppose I have time to play with you."

"I shall make your death as painless as possible. Prepare yourself, Hurricane!" Oleg exclaimed, brandishing his axe.


"For Pharae!" Oswin exclaimed, thrusting his lance at the enemy before reiling it back to his direction.

"Lord Elbert's death will be avenged!" Lowen shouted as he snapped the reins of his horse to charge in towards a Cavalier and joust him down with his lance.

"Lord Eliwood, look over there!" Marcus pointed out, getting his attention to see a figure running towards him.

"Lord Eliwood!" Ninian called out, running towards them.

"Ninian!?" Eliwood gasped, quickly approaches to the small figure. "You shouldn't be here!"

"…Please allow me to help."

"Help?" Eliwood asked incredulously. "I've no intention of making you fight…"

"…I am no mere dancer. My dances… They will help you. Please allow me to help… with my sacred dance..." Ninian said before her ring glowed and performed her sacred dance. A white aura briefly glowed on Eliwood before it faded.

"This is… I'm wrapped in some sort of… energy…" Eliwood noticed.

"I used Nini's Grace and danced for you, Lord Eliwood. It will only last a short while, but while it does, you are protected. Please… allow me… to remain at your side." Ninian said, pleading for it.

"Ninian…" Eliwood muttered, before nodding. "Of course. If it will make you feel better. Let's rejoin the battle. Don't leave my side."

"Okay!" Ninian smiled, in which Eliwood found her smile attractive.


"Lady Lyndis, are you unharmed?" Kent asked, approaching towards Lyn after his bout with another Cavalier.

"I'm fine. But I'm worried about Kurogasa." Lyn said noticing him going berserk on the Fish Lord.

"Your husband tends to be naive." Hector added. "He just can't seem to accept the fact one man died before him. Look, just because one man is down, that doesn't mean it's the end of the world."

"You don't know him like I do." Lyn frowned. "He has been doing all he could to save those who are in need. What gives you the right to belittle that?"

"Does that include your loud voice when you're together with him?" Hector teased, seemingly hits her nerves.

"Shut up!" Lyn shrieked.

"Please, you two! Now's not a good time for arguing!" Sain added.

"Well, tell him that!"

"That girl needs to loosen up…" Hector groaned.


"Man, even at this alleyway, they're keep sending Archers at us!" G3–X exclaimed, taking the arrow shots that hits his Riot Shield.

"We got this, laddie! Just trust me mates!" Dart assured, hacking a Sniper with his Hand Axe. "Alright, boys! CHARGE!"

"UWOOOOAAAAAHHH!" the band of Pirates suddenly flows out from the nearby taverns, ambushing the group of Snipers and Black Fang Monks and Shamans.

"Die, you whelp!" Fargus also joined, chopping off the Black Fang Sniper's arm before killing him off with a big cut on his chest.

"Will you look at that! They came through!" Wil cheered.

"We got them on the run now! Let's take the fight to them!" Guy said before charging in.

"This is going to be our win!" Rebecca added, drawing out her arrow and shoots another one down.

"Awww~, this would be one of those times I can't let loose with my Cerberus…" G3–X pouted.

"In time, friend. In time." Canas assured before opening his Luna Tome. "Right now, we have other enemies to deal with."

"We shall guide them to the path of repentance…" Renault added.


"Elfire!" Erk and Priscilla shouted as they both sent towers of flames towards another group of Black Fang soldiers.

"Aren't you two cute? Fighting together as one?" Bartre laughed.

"W–What are you talking about?" Erk stuttered.

"Please… do not assume something that is not related..." Priscilla noted. "He is only my retainer…"

"Really? I thought the two of you liked each other?" Bartre got out.

"Stop pestering. Start fighting back." Karla said sternly, walking forward with her Silver Sword in hand.

"Yeah, yeah, whatever 'Nee–san'!" Bartre snarked.

"…" As much as she wanted to tell him to stop calling her that, there's another time for another place for that.

"Sister!" Florina called her out, getting Fiora's attention.

"What's wrong, Florina? Is something the matter?" Fiora asked.

"There' a group heading towards us… and a man at another!"

"Hm? What do you mean by that?" Fiora got out, not understanding what her sister just said, as the said man entered the village, heading towards the chaotic battle.


"That's right! Keep hiding, Agito!" the Fish Lord mocked me, continuously splashing water at me, which dissolved the walls and barrels like acid. "That's all you can do! Hide! You would only be an embarrassment to my Master!"

"Damn you!" I exclaimed, chasing after it, only to it suddenly leaps into a small puddle.

"Hahahahahahahaha! What's wrong, Agito? Can you catch me? You cannot stab the puddle I am in, can't you?" it mocked me even more, in which it infuriates me even more.

"RAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAGH!" I yelled as the flames around me intensified and a heat wave was sent out throughout the area.

"Hah! Like that would work on me!" it suddenly leaps out, slashing deeply on my exposed back with its trident before stabbing me as well, inflicting heavy damage.

"Gaaah!" I exclaimed, before I got the boot on my back, sending me to the fountain nearby.

"This is the famed Agito that destroyed my commander?" the Fish Lord mocked me, stepping on my back to immobilized me. "You're a complete mockery, Agito! A feint of a strong figure!"

*STAB!*

*CLASH!*

"What?!" I gasped, seeing it blocked another attempt of striking it with my Shining Calibur.

"Hah! Do you really think your feint attacks work on me?" it roared, before spitting his spit on my helmet.

"Gh…!" I gritted as the helmet melted away to reveal my face.

"And now I get to kill you. Any last words?"

"You still can't fight properly now, can't you, boy?"

What? Who said that?

*SWIIIIIIIIIIISH! CRASH!*

"WAAAARRRRGGHH!" it roared in pain, courtesy of the long lance that was thrown from afar before the chain yanked back to his direction.

"What the–!" I got out before I managed to get up and see… "WALLACE?!"

"Honestly, I thought you'd grown up to be a strong fighter and tactician, but what did I see? Your butt getting whooped again!" Wallace sighed. "You still need to learn a lot more than this, boy!"

"I…" I trailed off. "No… sorry won't cut it anymore… I have no one to blame but myself."

"Worry about that later, boy! We got a bigger fish to fry!" Wallace laughed proudly, as I noticed Gills entering the fray in a frenzy, attacking the weakened Fish Lord. "Who's that? Your pet?"

"UWAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAARGH!" Gills roared out loud, charging forth at the Fish Lord.

"No. He's Kamen Rider Gills, like me." I said.

"Looks like a Berserker to me, boy!" he noted.

"He may be one, but I know he's on our side." I replied.

"An enemy of my enemy is my friend, huh?" Wallace looked at me. "You still haven't changed one bit on that principle. I can't hate you for that!"

"What can I say? Old habits die hard. C'mon Wallace! Like you said, we got a fish to fry!" I said before my head shined to bring back my helmet.

"Didn't I say that earlier?" Wallace got out. "And you gotta show me what you're made off with that new armor of yours, too!"

"You want it? You got it!"

"Why must you be a hindrance you failed experiment?!" the Fish Lord snapped, keep taking damage from Gill's whips.

"UWAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAARRRGGGHH!" it roared, continuing lashing out onto it..

"Is that all he can say? A big fat roar?" Wallace asked.

"It's best not to question it." I said.

"Here, fish head! For you!" Wallace exclaimed, thrusting his chained lance once more. This time, the Fish Lord took more damage, ended up crashing onto the wall behind him.

"Grrrr…" Gills growled, looking at me. "…friend?"

"Yes. Friend." I said.

Gills slowly nodded, as Wallace turned his attention at both of us. "Well, what are you two standing around for? Kill that blasted fish already!"

"Right! Gills!" I said as I got into a stance and the flaming Agito symbol appeared in front of me.

"UWAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAARGH!" he roared, as his horns split into six as well. The Gill Fillers shot out from his arms, tying the Fish Lord's body up.

"GAH! Let go! Let go, I say!" the Fish Lord demanded.

"HAH!" Gills exclaimed, already leaps into the air and executed the Gills Heel Stab, buried the blades on the back of his ankle on its head, stunning it completely.

"G–Gaaarrrggh!" it roared in pain as Gills quickly shoved his free foot on its chest, doing a backflip. Now, it's my turn to dive in for the kick.

"SORYAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAH!" I yelled as I did my Burning Rider Kick hitting the Fish Lord dead on the chest where Gills hit him. The Fish Lord yelled in pain as the halo above its head appeared before-

*BOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOM!*

–the Fish Lord was no more.

"Ya did it boy!" Wallace cheered as I landed back on my feet.

"Yeah… we did…" I muttered panting heavily as I turned around and went back to civilian form.

"I see you have finished that Lord." Renault said as he approached us.

"Yes, Your Excellency." I nodded.

"Hm?" Wallace looked at Renault.

"What is it?" Renault asked.

"Have we met somewhere before?"

"…" Renault remained silent before turning his attention to Gills.

"Something I said, boy?"

"I don't think so." I said. "By the way, thanks for taking out those Taliver Bandits."

"Ah, so Lady Lyndis read it, hm?" he said.

"Yeah."

"I just don't want to see her eyes tainted with revenge. It's already beautiful as it is." Wallace said.

"Just like her mother's."

"And you, my boy? Since when did you become a man?" he asked, noticing the necklace on my neck. "Who's the lucky Sacaean girl?"

"Who else?" I smirked.

"Who?" he repeated the question.

"Seriously…? I'm sure you know who the only Sacaean girl was in our group." I deadpanned.

"Boy, you're not making any sense whatsoever." he said. "I also saw a few Sacaean girls along the way, too."

"It's Lyndis, Wallace!" I comically yelled. "Lyn!"

"Oh… you finally did it, didn't ya?" he grinned proudly before patting my back rather hard. "That's my boy! Becoming a great man, I see! What did you do to charm her, eh?"

"I just… be myself." I said. "Look, all questions aside, we need to get the rest of the Black Fangs out of misery."


"It ends here! Your journey is over, and only oblivion awaits you!" Oleg shouted swinging at Legault again.

"You are rather repetitive, aren't you?" Legault said as he dodged again. "I got speed in my advantage, remember?"

"Speed means nothing in front of power!" Oleg roared.

"Once a stubborn mule, always a stubborn mule." Legault sighed, as he took off his cloak and got into his stance. "Guess I gotta show ya' how I got my name… in one blow!"

"Then, I'll decimate–"

*SLASH!*

"–you? I don't think so." Legault finished his words, already grinning widely as he stood behind Oleg, with both of his weapon hands stretched out.

"H–How did you…" Oleg got out.

*GUUUUUUUUUUUUUUSSH!*

Oleg immediately collapsed on his back, while Legault placed his daggers back into its sheaths. "In defeat… there is only… death. Urgh…" Oleg muttered before coughing out more blood and went lifeless.

"Can't say I didn't warn you." Legault shrugged. Looking around him, he noticed the Black Fangs were afraid of him. "I'll give you all a chance to escape before I deal the same damage on all of you."

The Black Fang members didn't dare try to take any chances as they immediately ran off.

"Yep, I still got it." Legault grinned.


I don't know how, but somehow managed we managed to win and drive out the Black Fang out of town. Our three groups then met up back at the caravans, and when we did, Lyndis's Legion were surprised to see an old face.

"Wallace?!" They shouted.

"Ba ha ha! Seems like everyone's in good shape!" Wallace laughed.

"What are you doing here?" Lyn asked.

"I traveled aimlessly once more… until I stumbled upon a small group heading towards here!" Wallace laughed out loud.

"I see…" Lyn said.

"No matter how long we haven't met, Sir Wallace would always be the same man we respected." Kent said.

"Indeed, my friend!" Sain proudly added.

"Sir Wallace… there's something I want to say." Lyn said.

"Say no more, Lady Lyndis. Your husband told me everything." Wallace stopped her. "I just don't want to see your eyes filled with revenge. It would only sullied your mother's only heritage to you."

Lyn didn't say anything else as she suddenly hugged the ol' dastard, much to his surprise.

"Thank you…" Lyn whispered.

"Hey, buddy. Who's the tin can?" Hiroji asked.

"Who are ya callin' a tin can, greenhorn!" Wallace snapped after Lyn broke the hug.

"I said so! That's what!" he replied, grinned sheepishly. "Your armor resembled the color of–"

"Guys, stop." I sighed. "Hiroji, this is General Wallace, a retired Caelin soldier, now taking arms again for us. And Wallace, this is my friend Hiroji. He's a Kamen Rider like me. Kamen Rider G3–X."

"What kind of name represented with only three letters?" Wallace said.

"That's two letters and one number." Hiroji corrected. "And by the way, don't mock my armor!"

"I don't think… Hiroji isn't going to get along… with Sir Wallace, Kurogasa…" Florina muttered, fumbling with her hands nervously.

"I have a feeling he won't." I said before Lyn approached me.

"Are you okay?" Lyn asked.

"Yeah… Just… needed to let out some steam." I smiled sadly. "I'm sorry for everything Lyn… I…"

"Boy, why do you apologize in the middle of war?" Wallace reminded me. "Didn't I tell you that you are either killed or be killed?"

"Sir Wallace… please…" Lyn said. "He's… been through enough as it is today."

"I've been through a lot more than that boy, more than enough to understand how the world works." Wallace grimaced. "My boy, if you can't let go of your past, you'd be stuck there forever. Remember my words well, boy! Because it's going to stick with you for the rest of your life."

"…" I remained silent at that. I can't say anything anymore. He's… right about it. I can't just sulk on one person's death…

"Hey, are you okay?" Hector asked, as Serra finished tending Eliwood's arm that protected Ninian earlier.

"Mm. Sorry to worry you." Eliwood nodded. "We'll have time for mourning when this is all finished. For now, in my father's name… I will do everything I can to stop Nergal and protect our lands."

"I see." Hector replied. "So, what do you have in mind?"

"…We need to see Marquess Ostia."

Hector flinched at that, "My brother?"

"…?" Raven listened to us quietly, not wanting to interfere with it.

"After all we've learned… We can't not tell him, can we?"

"Sure, I guess…" Hector said, looking away with a weird expression.

"Hector? Why that odd expression?" Lyn asked confused as Eliwood chuckled.

"Hector doesn't want to meet Lord Uther. He's been lax in contacting him and is afraid to face him, right?" Eliwood teased.

"What! And how did you expect me to send him any messages when we're traipsing about the isles like merchants on holiday?" Hector snapped.

"Chicke~n, bawk, ba~wk!" I teased.

Eliwood could only laugh. "Ha ha ha! He is going to be so mad!"

"Ba~wk, bawk, bawk, bawk, bawk, bawk, bawk, bawk, bawk, ba~wk!"

Hector, being already annoyed as it is, decided to chase me. "C'mere!"

"Ha… They're both in good spirits." Lyn sighed wistfully, as Hector already caught me and gave me a noogie, much to my chagrin. "It's a lot better than giving into despair, I suppose."

"Eat this, Tactician!" Hector exclaimed, drilling his fist on my temple… and it's really painful!

"Never, Lord Chicken!" I gritted with a painful smile.

"Two grown men, arguing about the smallest thing…" Fiora sighed lightly.

"At least it improves the mood, yes?" Canas noticed, as Hector already decided to drag me to a nearby pier and… kicked me into the sea?!

"WHOOOOOOOOOOA!"

*SPLASH!*

"How do you like me now, Tactician?!" Hector said proudly.

"K–Kurogasa!" Florina noticed as Serra quickly ran towards the pier with a float in hand.

"Hector, why did you do that?!" Lyn scolded.

"He deserved it." Hector said bluntly, as I managed to catch the float Serra threw at me.

"He was only teasing you!"

"Like I care!" Hector replied before heading back.

"Oh, Lord Hector…" Oswin sighed.

"Hold it right there Hector!" Lyn fumed stomping over to him.

"Oh, Hector… why can't you just admit that you miss him…?" Eliwood chuckled lightly.

"Lord Eliwood…" Marcus got out, getting his attention. "Are you feeling better?"

"Marcus… I'm fine. I know I worried you." Eliwood said.

Marcus was silent before he said, "About Lord Elbert… At my own discretion, I sent a messenger to Lady Eleanora."

Eliwood nodded at that. "…I see. Thank you, Marcus. That was well done."

"…I thought she should know as soon as possible." Marcus added. "The marquess's final moments were so… very noble…"

"…" Eliwood could only remained silent, knowing well Marcus' words held truth.

"Lord Eliwood! Commander Marcus!" a female voice called out as Eliwood and Marcus turned around to see a female Paladin show up with her horse.

"Ah!" Eliwood gasped, as the female Paladin seemed familiar to him.

"Is… Is that you, Isadora?!" Marcus asked surprised.

"I've finally found you. I'm glad you're well…" She said relieved.

"Isadora, what are you doing here? Don't tell me something's happened to Mother…" Eliwood slightly panicked.

"No, Lady Eleanora is well. Do not worry, Lord Eliwood." Isadora waved off making Eliwood sigh in relief. "When word of Lord Elbert's death reached her yesterday… she said not a word…" she trailed off, as Eliwood seems to understand the pain his mother felt. "She merely gave her full attention to the messenger."

"…Mother." Eliwood muttered.

"Then, she issued me orders without hesitation. She commanded I deliver this sword to Lord Eliwood and remain at his side." she said, presenting herself to him.

"You?"

"Yes." she nodded.

"But… the castle defenses will be shorthanded." Eliwood pointed out.

"Lord Eliwood… please… understand your mother's feelings." Isadora consoled. "Lord Elbert is not coming home. All your mother can do now is pray for your continued safety. "Obey your father's dying wish." That is her message to you, and I have delivered it."

"Why not petition Ostia for reinforcements to help ward Castle Pherae?" Marcus suggested.

"Good idea. I guess it would ease my mother's fears and bow to her wishes." Eliwood replied.

"It's that thinking that makes you Lord Eliwood." Isadora stated.

"Our battles are like nothing you've ever prepared for." Eliwood said sternly. Looking at the female Paladin, he asked, "…Are you ready to face them, Isadora?"

"Yes. I will serve with my very life." she pledged.

"Then, you might need to wear this." I said, offering her the armband, which somehow surprising her a bit, and even Eliwood himself.

"Oh, Kurogasa!" Eliwood gasped a bit. "Didn't see you there…"

"Yeah, you can thank Hector for… for… ACHOO!" I sneezed.

"Lord Eliwood, who is he?" Isadora asked, looking at me. "And why is he dripping wet?"

"It's… quite a tale." Marcus sighed.

"You can thank the lout Hector for kicking me into the… the… ACHOO!"

"Bless you." Isadora said.

"Thank you." I said before taking out a handkerchief and blew my nose.

"Are you alright?" Eliwood asked.

"I'm gonna need a bath for this…" I grumbled.

"I agree, my friend." Eliwood nodded. "You might catch a cold if you leave it as it is. Lady Lyndis might be worried for you again, if you are being stubborn."

"Yeah… then again, I guess I kinda deserve it after embarrassing myself today…"

"Milord?" Isadora said, getting our attention once more.

"Oh, forgive me." Eliwood got out, now introducing her to me. "Isadora, this is our tactician, Kurogasa. Kurogasa, this is one of our Paladins of Pharae, Isadora."

"This emblem…" Isadora noticed, as she looked upon the armband in her hand. "Are you the rumored bug–eyed tactician for hire?"

*POP!*

"That's– never mind… yes, I am." I slumped in defeat.

"I guess it sticks with you, my friend." Eliwood chuckled a bit, making me sigh in relief knowing Eliwood's mood improved a bit.

"I suppose… but I wish I'm not a rumor anymore…"

"Then, I thank you for aiding Lord Eliwood's quest. I heard good deeds from your work as you travel across Elibe." Isadora praised.

"You… have, huh?"

"Yes, especially in Etruria." she pointed out.

"But for now, you should take a bath." Eliwood suggested. "The rest of us can take over from here. You can ask for her details tomorrow morning."

"I agree with Lord Eliwood's words, lad." Marcus said.

"Right…" I nodded before I started leaving.

"And Kurogasa?" Eliwood said, making me turn to him.

"Yeah?"

"Do not worry about my father's death. What's done is done. You did all you could. Just move on."

"…" I could only stay in silence for a moment. With a slight nod, I eventually walked away, leaving them behind.


As the night deepened, so was I being restless. I just can't help that he's still hurting inside, despite all of those words he spoke out. I think I should check on him, despite the fact that Lyn told me to stay put while she's out scouting the area.

Lyn, you should know by now there are times I tend to follow my own path, too.

As I stepped out of our room and walked back towards the pier, I noticed Hector was looking at the pier from afar, specifically at Eliwood.

"Hector?" I said confused.

"Huh? Tactician?" he got out, noticing me as both of us stood near Hiroji's mini Tornador, hearing him sleeping in it. "Do you need something?"

"I was gonna check on Eliwood."

"Eliwood?" he raised his eyebrow. "Bah, y, you don't need to worry. Despite what you may think, he's as strong as there 're " Hector assured me.

"Well… I guess… I'll take your word on it."

Looking back where Eliwood is standing at, he began to talk to me seriously. "Look, even you're not having the greatest run of luck either."

"Gee thanks for adding salt to the wound. I've already been embarrassed enough as it is tonight." I grumbled.

"Despite all of that, I'll wager you never thought things would turn into such a terrible mess, did you, Kurogasa?" he said, which was one of those rare times he used my name instead of my title. He must be pretty serious about it.

"Did you just–" I blinked.

"…If it gets to be too much, you can leave at any time." Hector suggested, as his tone is also quite stern, too.

"I'm not leaving this army." I said. "There's too much at stake here and I'm not going to leave because of my stupid mistakes."

"I know that. You're a reliable and dependable Tactician, but… you're not our servant, you know? If you think our task impossible, you should get out." Hector suggested. "You're as smart as they come and you can fight. I know you don't need me to tell you that. You know who you are truly well." he added.

"Yeah I know…" I muttered.

"Well, time for me to hit the hay, after my guarding time is over." Hector said, deciding to head up into the main Tornador. "Go get some rest when you can. The battle we saw in Dread Isle is just the beginning of what's to come. Don't screw things up if you know it's going to be impossible to win on your own, even with those gifts you have in you."

"Yeah, okay…" I said, before I started leaving.

"Kurogasa?"

"Gah!" I suddenly exclaimed, surprised by his sudden appearance.

"Oh, forgive me." Eliwood got out. "I was just about to head back to the inn. Why are you here? Is something wrong?"

"Uh… nothing. Just wanted to check on you."

"Oh, you were worried about me, despite what I said earlier today." Eliwood got out. "I apologize for all of the trouble. I'm fine now. I have my friends to lean on." he smiled. "Hector, Lyndis, and you, Kurogasa…"

"Eliwood…" I got out.

"Thanks to all of you, I'm getting stronger. I am coming to believe that together, we can overcome anything!" Eliwood said, now holding my hand firmly in a handshake. "Let us win this war and stop the madness before everything ends in chaos. Please help me to the very end, my friend."

"Yeah." I smiled back, shaking his hand firmly. "You can count on me."

With those last words, he went back into the inn and wanted to call it a day.

"That went well. I guess things do work out in the end, huh?"

"Yes, I believe so, child."

"Gah!" I suddenly exclaimed, surprise to hear her tone after days of unable to contact her.

"Did I startle you?" Elimine asked. "Forgive me if I do. It wasn't my intention…"

"Where were you when I needed you? I was… fumbling and making an embarrassment out of myself tonight."

"I… have been thinking… about our last encounter with the being of darkness…" she said.

"The Overlord?" I asked.

"Yes." she nodded. "The book you are currently in possession of, and the similar darkness I felt. It seems like it's somehow connected with my missing memories…"

"Are you sure?"

"Child, you must remember something." she began. "Do you recall why you shed tears without your knowledge?"

"Because… it was actually you that cried. Not me."

"Yes." she replied. "And… I'm starting to gather more memories after your recent battle… I now realized that it wasn't you who could understand the Linto language… I do."

"What?" I gasped. "Then… that means–"

"I cannot be so sure whether the being of darkness is someone I knew before my prime…" Elimine got out. "But I had a feeling everything is connected to me. Which is why I would require your help once more, child."

"Of course. You know that I will."

"Thank you." she smiled in my mind. "To discover my lost memories… and learn of the Overlord's identity. That is my true mission I must discover with your help. You are the only one I can rely on, as much as you have relied on me."

"Yeah…"

"Now then… get some rest. I'm sure everything would turn– oh?" she paused.

"Huh? What's wrong?" I asked. "An enemy nearby?"

"No… on your left." she said, making me turn my attention to a… Pegasus? And it's looking at me? "A Pegasus is watching you, child."

"A Pegasus? When did that guy get out from its place?" I asked, as the said Pegasus started to walk to a direction. It paused, turning its head at me and looking at me with its serene eyes.

"I think it wants you to follow."

"Are you sure? For all I know, I might get kicked by it."

"There's only one way to find out." she suggested, as the Pegasus started to walk once more.

With a heavy heart, and making sure taking a few steps away from getting kicked, I followed the Pegasus until it led me to… a cemetery? And I can see a figure placed a flower at a blank tombstone. "That's Fiora… and you're Elie?"

*SNORT!*

"Okay, and… what do you want me to do?" I asked the Pegasus. This is so awkward right now.

*SNORT!*

"Gh!" I cringed, as Elie shoved me forward, which startled Fiora.

"Oh…" Fiora got out. "What brings you here, Kurogasa?"

"Uh… your Pegasus actually." I blinked.

"My Pegasus?" she asked, as I approached to where she's at. I can see there were a lot of flowers in front of a blank tombstone, which confused me.

"Why are you here?"

"I'm… here to honor my friends' death back at Dread Isle…" she began, looking back at the lone tombstone. "It… is at least I can do for them."

"I see." I nodded. "It's good that you're doing that."

"Yes." she nodded. "Despite the fact we're just mercenaries for hire, I just can't turn a blind eye just because of a job. I… have a few friends that went together with me and… because of them, I survived. They're willing to sacrifice themselves for my escape… and all I can do is looking ahead without helping them."

"Fiora…" I muttered. I don't know why, but this sounds strangely familiar.

"Tell me, Kurogasa." she asked, looking at me. "If your comrades took the blow for you, would you return to help them or continue on with the mission, despite the fact you knew very well that your comrades would fall someday…?"

"I…" I trailed off. "I'm not sure how to answer that."

"I see." she got out. "Forgive me to ask such a hard question. Not even a Tactician such as yourself would face such a situation, just as mine."

"No it's okay. But still… to be honest with you, it's… impossible to save every person in front of you. And I learned that the hard way when Lord Elbert died." I sighed sadly. "As much as we want to, sometimes it can't happen. Circumstances forces us to make the choice. But… that doesn't mean we shouldn't try right? If we are able to save someone, we should do it."

Fiora listened to my words intently, understanding it. A small smile was on her face, saying, "I guess… you're right about that. Just as you said before, I shall fight for their sake."

"Yeah, you should." I said. "Just have faith in yourself, Fiora. And trust me, I'll make sure no one dies on my watch. I'll make sure of it."

"Yes… I do believe you, but… it's going to take a while for me to regain my own belief in myself…"

"Take your time." I told her. "If your sister has faith in herself and tried her best to get around men, why can't you do the same?"

"I will." she nodded. I noticed she slowly advanced towards me and–

*CHU!*

–she… pecked my left cheek, making me blush.

"U–Uh…" I stuttered.

"I thank you for lending an ear to my problem, Kurogasa." she said. "I believe Lyn is quite lucky to have such a husband like you." and just like that, she walked away, leaving me all by myself.

"It would seem she has faith in your judgment now, child." Elimine consoled me.

"Yeah…" I muttered as I saw her walk away along with Elie.

"I noticed many girls within our group have started to put their faith in you, up to the point of kissing you." she noticed. "And it slowly expanded from the people of the cloth. Even Pegasus Knights, I see."

"What do you mean by that?" I asked, noticing her slightly teasing voice.

"What would happen if your spouse caught wind of this?" she said. "She might understand if it was your sworn sisters, but… what about other girls with the kiss?"

"Uh… that's…" I blushed heavier.

"Beloved?"

"GAAAH!" Darn it! Stop it with the sudden surprise. When I looked at the source of the voice, my face paled instantly.

"Why are you here at the cemetery?" Lyn asked. "Should you be in your room, resting?"

"Uh… Fiora was here earlier and… I wanted to give her some company."

"She was here?" Lyn asked, walking and standing next to me, looking at the blank tome.

"Yeah… she was… praying for her friends that fell in Dread Isle. It's the least she could do for them."

"That's nice of her." Lyn said. "But… it still doesn't explain why your blushing face is still written on you, beloved."

"Uh… well that's…" I said. Oh man, I can't lie to her! And I can't hide anything from her either! "She… thanked me… with a kiss to the cheek…" I admitted.

...

"…oh." Lyn got out. "I see."

"Eh?" I blinked. "You're… not mad?"

"I should be." she said, making me flinch from her blunt words. "But, I know it's your duty as a tactician and Fiora needed someone to listen to her troubles. I was kind of expecting that would happen some days later."

"Uh…"

"Don't you remember? I did the same thing to you, too… before you departed on your own adventure." she reminded me. "You listened to all of my complaints and gave me good advice, too. And up to this day, I still kept it to heart, even after our marriage. As long as it is still related to your job, I won't complain because I know you're being honest with me."

"Thanks, Lyn…" I sighed in relief, as she understood my situation.

"But…" she trailed off, sternly glaring at me. "If I ever caught you with another random girl and acted the same way as Fiora did, you would be getting a punishment for it."

"Uh… right…" I sweat dropped.

"Come now, let's head back to our inn. I need to rest after scouting." she said, extending her hand at me. "And you're going to massage my stiff shoulders; that's your punishment for not staying in your room."

"Anything for my wife." I smiled a bit, taking her hand before we headed back to the inn.


Meanwhile… in an unknown location…

"Gh…" Nergal cursed, feeling the wound on his stomach was deep, courtesy of Lord Elbert's last attempt to take his life away. "Sonia. Limstella." He growled.

"You called, Lord Nergal?" Sonia asked, as Limstella remained silent, obediently listening to his orders. The new morph, Sonia, consists of long black hair that reached to her hips, golden eyes, pale skin and red lips on her face. She wore a very alluring black long dress and arm sleeve, patterned with gold highlights and decorations on it, a gold dancer-like belt around her waist, golden anklet, and black high heels.

"My wound… needs time. It was a deep cut, and my strength is not what it was." Nergal said. "The man who did this to me is dead. I'd like his son's death as compensation. Sonia. You will use Brendan to move the Black Fang. I do not need mere underlings now. I need the Four Fangs."

"Hee hee, leave it to me. I'll have them bowing their heads to you, my lord." Sonia slightly cackled.

"Limstella. I want you to gather me quintessence. For this injury to heal, I will need much. You are the strongest of all my morphs. Kill all those who bear signs of great power."

"As you will…" Limstella replied before she walked away.

"The plan will go on, hm?" Overlord of Darkness said, getting Nergal's attention.

"It will continue to succeed, no matter what happens." Nergal added.

"But the Dragon's Gate is no more. It crumbled to pieces remember?"

"I shall find another. That place isn't the only one that leads to the Dragon Realm." Nergal reminded. "And yourself? Why do you acquire the quintessence of a dragon?"

"I have plans to use this… 'Seed'." it added, holding the said 'Seed' in his hand. "And I'm certain Agito would not see this coming."


(Cue Bravely You by Lia)

(Instrumental) The scene begins with the Dragon Gate, chained and closed up. The piano key notes played, shattering the chains before it slowly opened. The camera zoomed into the light of the gate, moving onto the next scene.

(Kuzurete~ owaru sekai~) Kurogasa, Lyn, Eliwood, and Hector along with their army were on the Isle of Valor. They all rushed towards the temple where Nergal and the Overlord of Darkness were waiting.
(Mujihi ni~ tsu~ge~ru~)
Meanwhile inside, Ninian was in her prison cell as she was kneeling in prayer, hoping for someone to save her. A tear came down her face before it dropped to the ground making a ripple effect before the camera zoomed in on the ripple to move to the next scene.

(Kimi wa~ (kimi wa) hitori~ (hitori)) At the training grounds, Kent, Sain, Lowen, and Oswin surrounded Wallace as they readied their weapons before charging in and the latter saw them coming and defended accordingly.
(Nani wo~ (nani wo) kiiteta~ (kiiteta))
The scene then changed to a campsite as Vaida and Heath tended to their wyverns and Priscilla tending her pony. Legault was at the bonfire as he sharpened his daggers. Nino and Jaffar were there too as Nino mending Jaffar's wound on his arm with a bandage while the latter didn't mind and stared at the fire.
(Boku wa~ (boku wa) tooi~ (tooi))
At another part of the camp, Dart and Geitz were having an arm wrestle as Guy cheered on who's going to win. Rath was silent as he sat next to his horse while Harken and Isadora try to catch up on old times.
(Yume wo~ (yume wo) miteta~ (miteta))
The scene then moved to Hiroji, Athos, Canas, Renault, Nils, and Hawkeye who were gathering at a table with some books opened as they discussed about how to defeat Nergal and to prevent the Dragon Gate from opening while talking about the Lords, El Lords, and Overlord of Darkness.

(Nani o erabi toru? Nani o akirameru?) There was a quick flash on the screen as Erk was being cared for by Louise and Pent at a castle during winter. Another screen flashed, showing Lucius and Raven traveling together at another place.
(Kimeyou to shiteru, boku wa nani sama da?) It was then replaced with the three Pegasus Sisters, where Farina was teasing Florina, while Fiora smiled looking at the two. Then, another memory appeared, where Karel had a standoff against his own sister, Karla, under the moonlight with the burning village surrounding them.
(Nani o erabu kawa, mou kimatte iru)
The next scene flashed where Dorcas and Bartre marched on, with Marcus and Merlinus behind them. It was quickly replaced with Wil and Rebecca inside the caravan, fixing their bows together, while Serra and Matthew watched the two.
(Machigai wanai ka, kami ni toikakeru)
The final scene is shown where First Agito stood tall on the left with G3–X on the right; both looking to the front. As soon as the screen flashes, Kurogasa leaned back–to–back with St. Elimine on the right, as both of them smiled before the screen flashed.

(Hitori kiri ja nakatta) The scene was at the campsite, where Ninian is dancing and singing beautifully, while Nils played the song with his flute.
(Zutto soba ni itanda kono te wo~ no~ba~su~)
While Eliwood was in awe with her sacred dance, the rest of the group were enjoying themselves while laughing happily, relieving their stress from their march. As the group were enjoying, Serra looked around, searching for someone, which got Karla's attention. Karla already knew who's she searching for, pointing at one direction for her.
(Kowaimono nanka nai)
Serra looked to one side, smiling as she noticed Kurogasa and Lyn enjoying their time together at the small hill.
(Tatoe bakemono ni narou tomo na~shi~to~ge~ru~) As Lyn and Kurogasa were watching the starry night together, Kurogasa leaned to her side and Lyn felt Kurogasa's head suddenly falling onto her lap, much to her surprise. Instead of feeling embarrassed, a smile graced her face, as she combed the sleeping Kurogasa's hair before looking at the sky again. The scene ended as the screen panned out and shot towards the sky, while a shooting star flew across the sky.


PREVIEW:

Hector: …I've had word from my brother. He's already on his way here. We're to wait for him.

Man #1: There are women and children in their group. What you would ask of us… It's something no knight… No man could do without shame.

Soldier: Sir! We're under attack! It's the east gate! The foe is already inside!

Man #2: …So you're being hunted again, are you, Lyn of the Lorca?

Uther: Go and meet the living legend.


Next Time on Kamen Rider Agito: Rekka no Ken: Kinship's Bond


Raven: DIE, MARQUESS OSTIAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAA!


TWF: A~nd with that, that's the end of another chapter… and oh, I didn't plan on that last line Fen-kun added, regarding Raven shouting his head off. Dunno if it occurred in the story before… o.o

Fen: No, it didn't originally in the game, but in this story it will.

TWF: You heard him, fellow fans. And if that scene occurred, blame it all on Fen-kun. I got nothing to do with it. o.o

Fen: O ye of little faith, I got this…

TWF: You got that? *wearing black glasses, wielding two shotguns in hand* I'll be back… to Burger King!

= DUN! DUN! DUN, DUN, DUN! =

Fen: And while he's killing everyone to get his burger, we'll see you next chapter…

TWF: *in a deep Arnold's voice* You are terminated!

*BANG!*