We do not own Koihime Musou or Kamen Rider Gaim. They belong to their respective creators. We just thought this idea would be fun and decided to give it a try. If you like it then that's great. If you don't then we tried. Anyway, come along and let's see what you think.
Sangokuden Armored War Gods Saga: Age of the Armored War Gods
Co-Written By: Ten-Faced Paladin and Kamen Rider Chrome
Chapter 3: Fall of the White Devil
The Armored War Devils arrived at the chamber where the coffin of the RinJyuKen's master lay. Present as well were Shirokumahime and Takahime of the Femme Fatales. The other three were noticeably absent.
"I see you have arrived on time," Takahime spoke approvingly of their allies' punctuality.
"Yeah, yeah," Shishi said dismissively with a wave of his hand. "What's the big deal calling us all here?"
"We are annoyed by the slow progress in collecting negative energy," Shirokumahime answered.
Saji snarled, "If you're here to berate us, you have another thing-" However, he was interrupted.
"Therefore, we wish to present you with gifts," finished Shirokumahime.
Suddenly, Rinki formed around the coffin. The Armored War Devils became tense at the sight of this as the Rinki gathered in the form of cloud. Suddenly, bolts of Rinki struck the four Armored War Devils. They thought it was some kind of attack at first, a betrayal by the RinJyuKen. However, oddly enough, the bolts caused no injury or pain and soon enough the energy stopped.
Saji inspected himself. "What just happened?"
"Does anyone else feel weird?" questioned Shishi.
"What did you just do?" Ukitsu asked curiously.
"Inspect your Lockseeds," Shirokumahime instructed and the Armored War Devils took out their Energy Lockseeds to see them flash with Rinki. "Your full potential has just been unlocked. These new abilities will be useful in our war against the Armored War Gods."
"Alright! I can't wait to try it out!" Shishi grinned eagerly.
"I recommend you train with your newly acquired abilities. That way you won't find yourselves too stunned when you use them in battle," advised Takahime.
The four left the chamber together. Once the door closed, Takahime scowled.
"How long do we need to entertain those four?" Takahime demanded.
"Patience, my little warhawk. Once Dai Shi-sama has been revived, we won't need them anymore," Shirokumahime spoke reassuringly.
Takahime sighed and gazed softly at the coffin of their lord and master. She went and stroked it tenderly.
"Have you heard from the others?" Takahime asked.
"Not yet. They are still searching for the Seal of Heaven. Imagine, once we have retrieved it, then we can awaken our lord and he will bring this world to its knees. History will be changed and the RinJyuKen Akugata shall rule all," Shirokumahime said.
As the Armored War God of the Ultimate Shield, Masataka had a pretty well-known reputation as the White Devil of Son Go. It wasn't an undeserving title. When he introduced the Inves to Sonsaku, he also applied them to warfare. When enemies saw him leading an army of monsters that followed his command, they immediately believed that Son Go had made a pact with demons. Thus, the legend of Son Go's White Devil was born.
However, officially, Masataka wasn't a general in Son Go's army. He was an advisor to the queen's younger sister, Sonken. She decided that her sister needed someone to advise her once she stepped down.
When the Armored War Gods were transported from Tokyo to Ancient China, they always ended up bringing along whatever they had. The Fuma Twins were just the same and they actually kept a few of those items.
A deck of playing cards was one of them.
"So, wanna play, Zangetsu-sempai?" Natsu asked as he shuffled the deck. Natsu always played cards with the troupe. He introduced them to the concept and on some nights he and the guys would get together to play a few rounds. They bet money and favors but it was all in good fun.
"We are in a library," Masataka responded. He was trying to catch up on his reading. Natsu was sitting on his table, cross-legged, and shuffling the deck of cards in his hand repeatedly.
"Can't you just take a break and play a game of cards, Sempai? What do you do for fun anyway? Don't tell me you don't know how to have fun."
"I have fun when it's time to have fun, but right now I just want to sit down and read a good book without interruption. Why don't you go find your brother?" Masataka asked.
"Fuyu's spending time with Rikuson again," Natsu told him.
"They've grown quite close, like how close you've become to Kogai-dono."
"Oh, me and Sai are plenty close. We've seen each other, and I mean really seen each other," Natsu grinned.
"So, you like older women," Masataka noted.
"Hey, I can't deny that she's hot. She might be older than me, but she is still fine."
"You're not the only one attracted to older women," remarked Masataka, recalling Iori who was married to Kochu. Masataka also remembered when he used to be in love with Sonsaku, but now he was engaged to Sonken and was quite happy with the arrangement. "Anyway, if you want someone to play with you, there's always someone here. Minmei, do you want to play?"
"Can I?" Shuutai appeared out of nowhere and Natsu yelped in fright before he fell off the table.
"Ugh..." Natsu groaned as he picked himself up and rubbed the back of his head. "Seriously, Shuutai. You know how to sneak up on people."
"She is my bodyguard. Her job is to make sure I am safe," said Masataka.
"But Zangetsu-sama always knows I'm watching," Shuutai said.
"I always have to assume you are watching over me and I appreciate it," Masataka smiled, causing the girl to blush.
"OK, Shuutai! Lemme explain how to play the game!" Natsu grinned as he shuffled his deck.
"Minmei, be careful. This game is tricky and unlike anything you've played before," Masataka advised.
"Don't you worry. We're just playing for fun. I'm not gonna make her bet anything," Natsu reassured. As the two started their game, Masataka left the library. He actually had another appointment to attend to.
"Oh, finally. You're here," said Shuyu as Masataka entered the room. Ryomo and Kogai had already taken their seats at the mahjong table. A game which quickly became Masataka's favorite was mahjong and the ones he played with were some of the high-ranking officers of the Son Clan.
Rarely did the officers of the Son Clan have time to themselves. They were always so busy. For example, just recently, a staff member got careless during a test of a Lockseed and an Evolved State Inves had gone out of control. It took days to clean up the mess after Masataka took care of the rampaging monster.
Mahjong may be a game played for money, but it did require a certain level of skill and strategy. Those who lacked the skill would lose a lot of money. Also, they did it once a month because they did it after receiving their monthly wages.
Masataka, Shuyu, Kogai and Ryomo sat at the square table with the mahjong tiles in front of them. Masataka looked at his set and looked up at the other players who were deciding their moves.
"Alright, let's begin," Masataka prompted. He felt lucky tonight.
Masataka yawned as he headed to back his room. The game of mahjong had ended with his pockets being a bit lighter but he swore that he would be getting his money back plus interest in the next game. As he walked by Sonken's room, he heard a groan from within. Curious, Masataka went to check up on her.
He knocked on the door and she answered, "Who is it?"
"It's me, Masataka. May I come in?" he requested.
"Sure, come inside," Sonken allowed and he went in. He saw her sitting at her desk with books open and massaging her neck.
"What's wrong, Renfa-sama?" Masataka asked.
"It's my neck and shoulders. They feel pretty sore," she said as she rubbed the sore areas.
"You have been studying very frequently. Perhaps you're experiencing soreness because of that," Masataka suggested.
"You're probably right. Leaning over books hasn't been doing any favors for my back either," she said with a groan.
"Perhaps you need a massage. I'll be happy to give you one," offered Masataka.
"Hold on," Sonken interrupted and she first slid off her sleeves before tossing them onto the bed. What came off next was the top part of her outfit which she tossed onto her bed as well. Masataka's eyes widened at the sight of Sonken now. Her usual outfit was rather revealing, but without the sleeves and the collar which normally covered her neck, shoulders and the top of her breasts, her dress looked absolutely skimpy.
She sat down on the bed and Masataka licked his lips and his throat felt dry as beads of sweat ran down his forehead. Why did his beloved fiancée have to be so damn sexy? He knew that it would just start with a backrub but then what would happen? Still, he couldn't just leave Sonken sitting there and do nothing after offering to give her a massage. He took a deep breath and sat behind her before placing his hands on her shoulders. She gasped as she felt his hands on her skin but soon relaxed as he started to massage her sore shoulders.
Meanwhile, Sonsaku was humming as she headed to her little sister's room. Since they had been busy, they hadn't had the chance to spend quality times as sisters. Also, maybe Sonsaku could get a progress report about her sister's relationship with Zangetsu.
As Sonsaku was about to knock on the door, she heard a feminine moan coming from inside. Eyes wide, she pressed her ear against it.
"Ooh~! Masataka-kun~!" moaned Sonken.
"Renfa?" Sonsaku whispered. "Are they...?"
"Oh...right there~! Yes! That feels so good~!" moaned Sonken in what sounded like pure pleasure. Sonsaku smiled. Well, it sounded like their relationship was progressing well.
"I should leave them to their privacy," Sonsaku smiled before she went on her way. Inside, Sonken was lying face down on her bed as Masataka gave her a massage.
It was the next morning and Sonsaku was sitting on her throne with Shuyu standing at her side. As ruler of Son Go, Sonsaku was obligated to listen to the complaints of her people and try to rectify them as best as she could. Her duty was to her people after. What good was she if she couldn't help them in their time of need? A nation which lost confidence in their ruler was doomed to fall.
A fisherman knelt before her with dire news, "A river monster has been attacking many fishermen in the river! We need to feed our families but the river monster prevents us from catching fish! Please, I beg of you! Help us!"
"A river monster," Sonsaku frowned. "Can you describe it?"
"It was a giant serpent, Sonsaku-sama."
"Perhaps this requires an investigation," suggested Shuyu.
"Indeed, Meirin," agreed Sonsaku. She assured the fisherman, "Do not worry. We will take care of the river monster."
"Thank you, Sonsaku-sama!" the fisherman bowed gratefully before respectfully leaving the throne room.
"Send for Zangetsu. He should hear about this too," instructed Sonsaku. Shuyu nodded and ordered a guard to go fetch Masataka immediately.
After some waiting, Masataka entered the throne room and bowed before Sonsaku and Shuyu respectfully.
"You asked for me, Sonsaku-sama?" Masataka asked.
"Indeed, Masataka-kun. It appears that we have a monster problem," Sonsaku informed him.
"What kind of monster problem?" Masataka asked.
"A giant serpent, and it has been attacking our fishing boats," Shuyu informed him.
"Odd that none of our soldiers reported anything from their patrols."
"Do you have an idea of what could be causing this?" Sonsaku asked.
"I suspect the RinJyuKen might be behind this, but I would need to confirm it for myself," answered Masataka.
"If this is indeed caused by the RinJyuKen Akugata, then as Son Go's Armored War God you must put a stop to it," Sonsaku ordered.
"I won't let you down, Sonsaku-sama."
Accompanied by Shuutai and Kogai, Masataka was heading to the docks for their mission. A ship would be ready for them along with a small crew of soldiers. He had informed them about the mission and that their job was to investigate if a river monster was truly responsible for attacking the fishing boats. If there was a river monster, then they were going to have to take care of it. Once preparations were complete, the crew set sail down the river.
In Masataka's cabin, Kogai, Masataka and Shuutai were gathered around a map of Son Go.
"According to our sources, the monster attacks right here." Masataka pointed to a spot in the middle of the river.
"That spot is very popular among fishermen due to the abundance of fish," agreed Kogai. "A good place for a monster to make its home."
"So, why do you think it's the RinJyuKen, Zangetsu-sama?" Shuutai asked.
"The RinJyuKen Akugata gains power by increasing the amount of negative emotion experienced by humans. That is why they attack people. They want to cause as much fear and suffering as possible so they can convert it into power," Masataka explained.
"But attacking fishing boats? Seems pretty small scale compared to their other plots," Kogai supplied.
"Yes, and that is why we're going to check it out. If it is a RinJyuKen, we have to stop it before it escalates."
They had soldiers armed and ready to face the RinJyuKen Akugata. They were trained to handle Rinshi but only the power of an Armored War God would be enough to face a Rinrinshi. There were also concerns that it might be an Inves too. As the RinJyuKen Akugata had made an alliance with the Armored War Devils, they too had access to Lockseeds and Inves to do their bidding.
"Alright, we're going to keep moving but we weigh anchor when night falls. Then we'll set our trap," Masataka ordered.
"What's the plan?" Kogai asked promptly.
"We'll set ourselves as bait. As we'll be right in the middle of the river, we'll be an irresistible target for our so-called river monster. Then when it comes to strike, we'll launch a surprise attack with our Lily Surfers."
"And then you'll finish it off," Kogai concluded.
"Of course. That's my job. The only flaw to this plan is that we can't be sure it will even strike tonight. It could take days or even weeks of waiting."
"We'll just have to be ready for it, then," Kogai suggested.
"It's a waiting game. Fortunately we have enough supplies so we can afford to wait," he agreed.
Once night fell, the ship weighed anchor in the middle of the river. Soldiers were up on deck to keep watch. They were on shifts and would take turns, waking up the sleeping soldiers for their shift when their own shift was over.
Masataka was also on the deck and looking at the night's sky. He was admiring the beauty of the stars, "It really is a beautiful night."
"Indeed," Kogai agreed. "I wish Natsu-kun was here with me."
"Well, Mars and Kamuro have to stay in the capital to protect it in our absence," Masataka replied. Before the twins' arrival, Masataka was Son Go's sole Armored War God. Now that they were around, his workload was much lighter.
"So, how about a drink while we watch the stars?" Kogai offered, holding up a bottle of wine.
"Should we really be drinking at a time like this?" Masataka frowned in disapproval.
"Maa, maa, it's a beautiful night. A perfect time to be drinking," she dismissed his concerns.
"Maybe later after we finish the mission." He looked to Shuutai who was looking through a telescope. "Minmei, you see anything?"
"Nothing yet, Zangetsu-sama," Shuutai reported.
"Well, keep your eyes open in case you see something," he instructed.
Shuutai nodded and continued to look around with her telescope.
That was when a soldier came and reported, "Zangetsu-sama, we've found a stowaway!"
"Excuse me? A stowaway?" Masataka cocked an eyebrow. Stowaways were a risk on a ship. They were one of the many dangers while traveling. It could be a bandit waiting for them to fall asleep so he could kill them when they were unaware. Even if it wasn't a bandit, their food supply was limited until they returned to port. They couldn't afford an unlisted stowaway to steal any of the supplies.
"Yes sir," the soldier confirmed. Masataka's wasn't a cruel person so he wasn't going to throw anyone overboard. However, he was also pragmatic so the stowaway would need to be detained.
"Bring them to me," Masataka ordered. The soldier saluted and went to retrieve the stowaway. The White Devil of Son Go was not prepared to discover the identity of the stowaway as Sonshoko was escorted by the soldier.
"Shao-sama?" Kogai uttered in disbelief while Masataka just looked disappointed.
"Shao-chan, what are you doing on this ship?"
"I'm sorry, Zan-niichan. I just wanted to join you on an adventure," Sonshoko told him.
Masataka shook his head. "Shao-chan, this isn't some pleasure cruise. We're on a dangerous mission. It's no place for a young girl like yourself."
"But I can help!" Sonshoko insisted.
"How can you help? I have half a mind to turn this ship around and drop you back home at the palace." He didn't mean to sound harsh, but against monsters Sonshoko would be outmatched and just end up as food for them. He didn't want someone he cared about to get hurt.
"But Onee-sama will scold me!" Sonshoko whined.
"Then you shouldn't have come onboard without permission. Your sisters are probably worried sick about you right now," he continued to scold her. Sonshoko's eyes welled up with tears. He hated seeing her cry but he wasn't going to apologize for scolding her.
Back when she had run off on her own, he had gone looking for her. He had spied on her from afar when she joined Nagata's group and was glad that she had found companions that would look after her. He did have suspicions about Nagata when he first saw him, but he had heard rumors of the Ultimate Sword's heroic deeds and knew he could trust him to make sure Sonshoko was safe.
Kogai suggested, "Perhaps we should let her stay, Sensei. At least for tonight. It's already dark and we have gone far down the river. It's too late to turn back to the capital."
Masataka accepted Kogai's suggestion, "Fine, she can stay. But when morning comes, we'll bring her back to the capital." He addressed the youngest princess, "Shao-chan, promise me that you will stay out of trouble."
"I promise." Masataka patted her head. Her eyes were still wet with tears but a pleasant blush now colored her cheeks.
Once Sonshoko was escorted back to the cabin, Kogai asked, "Are you upset with Shaoren?"
"She took a stupid risk and stowed away on this ship," he answered. "Why did she stow away? Doesn't she know this is a dangerous mission? How did she even know about our mission?"
"Perhaps she was eavesdropping," Kogai suggested.
"Well, she shouldn't have. She should know better."
"It seems like she misses you," Kogai remarked.
"How?" Masataka cocked an eyebrow.
"You have been working pretty hard and you haven't spent a lot of time with her recently," Kogai reminded.
"That's because I've been busy," Masataka tried to defend himself but failed. True, he had been busy with his duties, but even so he could spend some time with Sonshoko. It wasn't like he was swamped with work. He had delegated his duties.
"Too busy to spend time with her? You're like a big brother to her, Sensei. So, it just makes sense that she would want to spend more time with you."
"Yeah, I know how she feels. I miss my little brother too. Back when we were younger, I kept myself busy with my studies and barely had any time for him. Now I'm here and I feel like I've abandoned him."
"He does understand that your duty here is important, right?" Kogai asked.
"Funny thing is, he has no idea about my duty or where I am right now," he admitted. "I feel like a horrible brother. I never even got to say goodbye and now I won't be able to see him again either. "
"Oh, Sensei..."
"It's fine." He shook his head. "I'm here now. No use regretting things I can't change. At least he's got our grandfather looking after him."
"Zangetsu-sama, if you manage to see your brother again, what would you do?" Shuutai asked.
"First I would apologize and then tell him about what I've been doing."
One of the soldiers on patrol yawned as he continued to look out for signs of a monster. He blinked when he thought he saw something but then he saw a barely visible outline of a creature going under the ship. He checked again with his lantern but the shape was gone.
"Must be my imagination..." he mumbled.
All of a sudden, the water around the ship swelled and this caught the soldier's attention. Then, three loud splashes were heard as three serpentine shapes burst out of the water and surrounded the ship.
"RIVER MONSTER!" the soldiers yelled.
Masataka immediately recognized the shapes. "Seiryuu Inves! Evolved State and three of them!"
"Archers! Fire!" Kogai ordered.
The archers aimed their bows but the ship shook, causing them to miss. The Seiryuu Inves all roared and started to attack the ship, ramming their bodies against it. This caused the ship to shake violently. They were trying to capsize the boat.
"Zan-niichan?" Sonshoko asked as she came on deck to see what was causing the ship to shake.
"Shao-chan, get back inside the cabin!" instructed Masataka loudly. "Minmei, look after her! Sai, you're with me! You need to take command of the soldiers!" He put on his GenesisDriver and activated his Melon Energy Lockseed.
"Henshin!"
[MELON ENERGY! LOCK ON! SODA! MELON ENERGY ARMS!]
Zangetsu-Shin leapt overboard and activated his Lily Surfer, riding it to confront the Evolved Seiryuu Inves. He took aim and fired the Lily Surfer's weapons, shooting at the Inves.
"He needs support!" Kogai ordered as she took out her own Lily Surfer. She leapt overboard and activated the Lockvehicle, landing on it perfectly before she went shooting off after Zangetsu-Shin. The Lily Surfers were deployed and the soldiers mounted the vehicles before racing along the surface of the river.
"Fire!" Kogai ordered and they shot the Lily Surfers' laser guns at the Evolved Seiryuu Inves. The creatures thrashed from the firepower and dove back into the water. Zangetsu-Shin gathered with them to study the water.
"They're gone," Kogai uttered as Zangetsu-Shin scanned the water. All of a sudden, one of the Evolved Seiryuu Inves burst out of the water and grabbed a soldier in its jaws. Zangetsu-Shin's eyes widened in horror as the screaming soldier was swallowed whole by the monster. Another of the Evolved Seiryuu Inves rose from the water and fired at them.
"Scramble!" Zangetsu-Shin ordered as they separated to escape the fireball. The other soldier tried to get to the ship but the third Evolved Seiryuu Inves rose in his path. He screamed as a fireball hit him, causing his Lily Surfer to explode and take him with it.
"No!" Kogai cried out as Zangetsu-Shin grimaced.
"Sai, get back to the ship!" ordered Zangetsu-Shin as the third Evolved Seiryuu Inves rose up and flew straight towards him. "I'm not on the menu!" he shouted as he raced towards the Inves and pushed in his Seaboll Compressor.
[MELON ENERGY SQUASH!]
The Sonic Arrow charged up and Zangetsu-Shin leapt off his Lily Surfer to swing. He sliced the Evolved Seiryuu Inves in the head and it exploded before he landed on his Lockvehicle. He spotted one of the Evolved Seiryuu Inves following Kogai towards the ship.
"Not on my watch," Zangetsu-Shin declared as he unlocked his Melon Energy Lockseed and locked it into his Sonic Arrow.
[LOCK ON!]
As the Evolved Seiryuu Inves opened its jaws, Zangetsu-Shin fired.
[MELON ENERGY!]
Multiple energy arrows shot towards the Inves and pierced its body. It then exploded and Kogai was catapulted off her Lily Surfer and onto the ship where she landed ungracefully upon her shapely rear.
"Itai..." Kogai groaned and spotted Zangetsu-Shin coming over to check.
"Are you alright?" Zangetsu-Shin asked and he saw Sonshoko look over at him. "Shao-chan, you were supposed to stay in the cabin!"
"I just wanted to see and you were amazing!" Sonshoko cheered.
"The last one is escaping!" Shuutai pointed at the fleeing Evolved Seiryuu Inves.
"I'm going after it! Stay here!" ordered Zangetsu-Shin as he pursued the Evolved Seiryuu Inves. It had risen from the water and flying towards shore. After what the other Inves had done, he wasn't about to let this one go free.
When he reached shore, he docked his Lockvehicle on shore and deactivated it. The Evolved Seiryuu Inves had fled into a wooded area. Narrowing his eyes and gripping his Sonic Arrow, he ventured forth in pursuit. He scanned his surroundings for any sight of the Evolved Seiryuu Inves. He didn't find it. Instead, he found an open Helheim portal.
"It must've come through here, but who opened it?" Zangetsu-Shin said to himself. Should he venture into the portal to investigate? An open portal was a threat as more Inves could come through. It would close eventually, unless it was opened by someone using a Lockseed.
"Admiring our work?" Zangetsu-Shin turned and aimed. He then saw that it was Kagemusha, one of the Armored War Devils.
"You!" Zangetsu-Shin hissed. "I should've known you were behind the Seiryuu Inves' presence in the river!"
"Congratulations! You figured it out!" Kagemusha congratulated Zangetsu-Shin insincerely.
"Another plan cooked up by your RinJyuKen buddies? Are you using the Inves to spread fear?" Zangetsu-Shin interrogated.
"Actually, this entire operation was meant to draw you out."
All of a sudden, the Evolved Seiryuu Inves came out of the portal and grabbed Zangetsu-Shin in its jaws before dragging him back through. Kagemusha chuckled and followed them into the portal which soon closed moments later.
The Evolved Seiryuu Inves released Zangetsu-Shin and he went tumbling. He picked himself up only to be thrown backwards by a shot that came out of nowhere.
Zangetsu-Shin picked himself up and scanned his surroundings for where the arrow had come from. He finally spotted the sniper and saw that it was Sigurd. His eyes narrowed and he sprinted straight towards the Armored War Devil who fired another shot at him.
Zangetsu-Shin deflected the energy arrow with his own Sonic Arrow as he closed the gap between them before he crossed blades with him.
Zangetsu-Shin sent a kick at Sigurd but the evil Rider leapt back to avoid it. This left him wide open for an arrow shot which the evil Rider deflected. Sigurd then charged at Zangetsu-Shin and swung his Sonic Arrow, but Zangetsu-Shin parried it, only to be kicked hard in the stomach. Sigurd then threw a punch, hitting Zangetsu-Shin across the face.
Zangetsu-Shin quickly recovered, slashing at Sigurd who parried the blow. Zangetsu-Shin didn't let that stop him as he drew his arm back and swung again, harder this time. Sigurd's defense was broken as he was hit in the chest, causing sparks to fly. Zangetsu-Shin then slashed him repeatedly before the White Devil landed a snap kick that sent his opponent staggering.
"Take this!" yelled Zangetsu-Shin as he fired at Sigurd repeatedly. Sigurd tried to deflect the arrows but they came in rapid frequency. He was forced to leap to the side to avoid the volley but Zangetsu-Shin was already upon him, hitting him with a kick that sent him tumbling.
"Dammit," Sigurd cursed before he shot at Zangetsu-Shin who shot right back, causing their arrows to cancel each other out. Zangetsu-Shin then used a shoulder tackle to knock Sigurd to the ground and brought his heel down, but Sigurd rolled out of the way before hitting Zangetsu-Shin in the chest with an energy arrow. Zangetsu-Shin recovered and fired right back, only for Sigurd to deflect the arrow with his Sonic Arrow.
The two stared each other down before they rushed at each other. Violent blows were exchanged between them, sparks flying as they connected or were blocked. Sigurd hit Zangetsu-Shin in the chest with a slash and the White Devil retaliated with a kick to the chest. The two were locked in combat with the intent of killing each other.
Sparks erupted as they continued to clash. Sigurd's hatred towards the Armored War Gods for their interference was a great motivator. As for Zangetsu-Shin, his motivation was the protection of the Son Clan and the Kingdom of Son Go.
Breaking away from Sigurd for a moment, Zangetsu-Shin swung and landed a brutal slash across Sigurd, sending him staggering backwards. Zangetsu-Shin continued to land slash after slash upon Sigurd, not giving him a chance to fight back or defend himself.
"This ends here," Zangetsu-Shin coldly concluded as he prepared to land the killing blow. However, he never got the chance as he was suddenly shot in the chest. Marika came jumping down in front of him and his eyes widened in surprise at the sight of her.
"Nihao!" Marika greeted cheerfully before she kicked him in the chest. He staggered back and slammed against a tree. He raised his Sonic Arrow, only to be slashed across the chest, causing him to cry out as sparks erupted from his chestplate. A series of quick slashes from Sigurd followed moments later, knocking him from side to side before he was hit again in the chest, sending him reeling backwards.
"You've both had your fun. Now leave him to me," instructed Duke as he walked into the clearing.
"All of you, here!?" Zangetsu-Shin now realized that he was facing the combined might of all four Armored War Devils. He was now at a disadvantaged, outnumbered and outmatched.
Duke charged at Zangetsu-Shin who tightened his grip on his Sonic Arrow. The two clashed and Zangetsu-Shin's eyes widened as he felt the force behind Duke's blow as their Sonic Arrows connected. Duke then kicked him in the side before landing a brutal punch that sent him flying.
Zangetsu-Shin tumbled along the grass and groaned before picking himself up. Arrows suddenly came at him and he used his Sonic Arrow to deflect them. However, some of the arrows curved in mid-flight to strike him in the back, causing him to scream.
[LOCK ON!]
Zangetsu-Shin looked up as Duke aimed his Sonic Arrow at him, with the tip glowing as it charged up.
"Goodbye," Duke declared as he released the shot.
[LEMON ENERGY!]
The last thing Zangetsu-Shin saw was a bright yellow flash as the Sonic Volley came flying towards him.
Sonsaku and Shuyu were taking a nightly stroll together through the palace's courtyard. Usually, a walk like this would be romantic and a chance for them to reaffirm their romance. Unfortunately, tonight the subject of their discussion would be a depressing one.
"I am worried about Renfa, Meirin," Sonsaku sighed. It had been two weeks since Masataka's disappearance. When Kogai and the others had returned with Sonshoko but without their Armored War God, Sonsaku and Shuyu knew they only had bad news to bring back home.
Shuyu agreed, "I can imagine why. We've sent many search parties but there have not been any reports or leads regarding his whereabouts. I fear the worst."
"As do I," agreed Sonsaku. Masataka was part of their family and not knowing whether he was alive or dead made Sonken feel utterly distraught. "I just wish he would appear before me right now to ease her pain."
Be careful what you wish for, Sonsaku.
Suddenly, an arrow made of energy struck Sonsaku in the chest and threw her backwards. Shuyu screamed loudly at the sight of her beloved lying on the ground.
"SHEREN!" Shuyu screamed and her eyes turned towards the assassin who revealed himself. Shuyu's eyes widened in shock as she turned pale.
Standing before her was Zangetsu-Shin with his Sonic Arrow leveled at Son Go's strategist. He pulled on the string and charged up another arrow to shoot. Shuyu quickly ducked to the ground as the arrow flew over her. Shuyu gasped and quickly unlocked a Lockseed to summon an Inves to her aid. Instantly, a Byakko Inves leapt out of the portal and tackled Zangetsu-Shin.
Shuyu stared in shock at Zangetsu-Shin before her gaze went towards Sonsaku.
"Sheren..." she uttered as she crawled over to her lover. "Sheren..." She gently cradled her in her arms. "Please, speak to me." However, it was already too late. Sonsaku had died the instant the arrow had hit her. "No..." Shuyu sobbed as she tightly embraced Sonsaku's body and shook back and forth. "Please...please no..."
Meanwhile, Zangetsu-Shin had struck the Byakko Inves with his Sonic Arrow before pushing his Seaboll Compressor.
[MELON ENERGY SQUASH!]
A single energized slash made short work of the summoned Inves as it exploded. Once that was dealt with, Zangetsu-Shin turned his sights towards the mourning Shuyu. He strode towards her but all of a sudden he was struck by an energy blade which sent him staggering back. Looking up, he spotted Mars with Kogai.
"Sensei...?" Kogai was shocked to see Zangetsu-Shin.
"Sempai, what the hell are you doing!?" Mars demanded. Zangetsu-Shin snorted and activated a Lockseed which opened a portal. Two Elementary Inves and a Shika Inves jumped out of the portal and charged at Mars and Kogai. Zangetsu-Shin decided to leave through the portal, locking the Lockseed before tossing it out before the portal zipped close.
"Kuso!" Mars cursed as he blocked the Shika Inves with his shield before sending it staggering with a bash. He hit his Cutting Blade and activated his finisher.
[COME ON! GOLDEN SQUASH!]
He swung his blade and shot out an energy slash that sliced through the Elementary Inves. They stopped cold in their tracks before exploding. Once they were dealt with, the gold Armored War God engaged the Shika Inves as it lunged for him. The kick he received sent him staggering but he was ready for it when it swung at him. He slashed it furiously before he continued his assault, causing sparks to explode off it with each blow. He then sent it flying with a bash of his shield before hitting his Cutting Blade twice.
[COME ON! GOLDEN AU LAIT!]
He conjured a giant apple made of energy before launching it like a missile. The Shika Inves was hit directly and it let out a death cry before it exploded.
Mars took a deep breath and cancelled his transformation. Though he had defeated the Inves, he had no reason to cheer.
"ONEE-SAMA!" Sonshoko screamed as she saw her sister's body as Rikuson held the distraught princess back. Sonsaku's sisters were immediately summoned after Sonsaku's body was brought back into the palace. The body of Son Go's queen was laid down with a sheet to cover her out of respect.
Sonken demanded to know, "What happened!?"
Shuyu refused to meet her gaze, still shaken by the incident. Her beloved was gone and soon all of Son Go would learn of the death of their ruler. Her death would be shocking enough, but the cause would be earth-shattering itself.
"It was Sensei," Kogai spoke and Sonken looked at her in disbelief.
"No...No it can't be. Masataka-kun wouldn't...he couldn't...No, it must be a mistake!" Sonken denied.
"That's right, Zan-niichan would never do that!" agreed Sonshoko.
"It was Zangetsu," confirmed Shuyu coldly. "He has betrayed us and assassinated Sheren-sama."
Sonken stood there, hanging her head as she trembled. Her fists were clenched as tears fell from her eyes. Sonshoko quickly went and embraced her older sister who didn't push her away as they shared a hug, offering each other's comfort. Tonight many hearts were broken and they needed comfort.
Natsu watched and crossed his arms. He felt that something wasn't right about all this. However, the fact was that Zangetsu, the Ultimate Shield of Son Go and the White Devil himself had assassinated Sonsaku.
Masataka Miyamoto was now a traitor.
ARMORED WAR GODS BIO TIME!
Name: Masataka Miyamoto
Alter-Ego: Armored War God Zangetsu/Zangetsu-Shin
Epithet(s): Ultimate Shield, White Devil
Faction: Son Go
Like most of the Armored War Gods, Masataka just so happened to be at the museum when Saji tried to steal an ancient mirror. Transported by its magic, Masataka ended up in the bath of Sonsaku. When he discovered that his SengokuDriver and Lockseed toys had somehow become real, he saved the lives of both Sonsaku and Shuyu from a Rinrinshi that was sent to assassinate them. Since then, he was accepted as part of Son Go's court, becoming close to the Son Clan as a result.
Masataka also founded the Lockseed Distribution Department. As the head, he manages the harvest and distribution of Lockseeds in Son Go when he discovered that the Inves could be used as weapons to help Son Go. Lockseeds could also be sold to provide war funds for Sonsaku's campaign to unite China. He also managed to harvest a wide array of Lockvehicle Lockseeds, providing Son Go with advanced weaponry that gives them a whole new advantage in warfare.
Masataka is later made the personal advisor of Sonken and is also engaged to her. Prior to this, he had feelings for Sonsaku but when he discovered that both Sonsaku and Shuyu were an item, he gave up on those feelings and moved on.
When he was young, he and his younger brother were abandoned by their parents and were raised by their grandfather. Due to this, he holds resentment towards his parents and wondered why they left.
Masataka rarely participates in battle as Sonsaku prefers to keep him as a secret weapon. On the battlefield, he mainly acts as a strategist alongside Shuyu. However, once he's deployed onto the battlefield, Masataka reveals his true combat prowess. With sword and shield in hand, he can decimate most foes with brutal efficiency. Also, as he gave Son Go access to Inves, he has been given the nickname 'White Devil' by enemies alike.
Masataka is a calm and collected person, at least most of the time. He gets intense nosebleeds when he sees a naked woman. He is very pragmatic when dealing with situations and not afraid to shed blood for the greater good. He is also quite honorable and loyal to the Son Clan. He cares quite a lot for Sonshoko, treating her as if she was his own little sister.
KRC: OK, first of all, I would like to apologize for the long wait because of the Hunt of the Armored War Gods movie event of the series. But then I decided the show must go on. Anyway, let's review what has happened in this chapter so far. Masataka was ambushed, taken by surprise, and outnumbered by the evil Genesis Riders. He didn't stand a chance. Plus, these guys now have their full potential unlocked. And it gets way worse. Sonsaku has been assassinated and by Zangetsu-Shin no less. Has Masataka been brainwashed by the villains? Is he now a traitor? Want to see what happens next? Stay tune.
TFP: Well, this is certainly a grim twist. What happened to Masataka to turn him against the family he had grown so close to? The evidence seems damning since he didn't even bother hiding himself. So what are the Son Clan going to do now that their leader is dead and their most powerful Armored War God has turned against them?
BL92: Okay, now I'm really starting to hate those Armored War Devils already. They've really crossed the line by ganging up on Masataka. But then, to make matters worse, Zangetsu-Shin assassinates Sonsaku! Has he turned against the kingdom that he has sworn his loyalty to and become a traitor? What has happened to him and is he out of his mind? Also to all readers who were upset about Sonsaku's death, you should know that you can't make an omelette without breaking a few eggs. In other words, for the greater good of this story and to make it interesting with a twist, sacrifices must be made.
