We do not own Koihime Musou or Kamen Rider Gaim. They belong to their respective creators. We just thought this idea would be fun and decided to give it a try. If you like it then that's great. If you don't then we tried. Anyway, come along and let's see what you think.

KRC: I know I piss people off because I left a cliffhanger and made you wait, but I have a good reason for that. I needed to make this epic and really show how much of an underdog Baron is. In the face of adversity, he can show you what real strength is.

Also, starting from this chapter onwards, a bit of an aesthetic change to the Drivers' announcements. Now, I've always done it using double quotation marks. From this chapter onwards, I will be using square brackets to indicate the Drivers' announcements.

So, from now on: "LOCK ON!" is now [LOCK ON!]

And this change will be applied to the previous chapters as well.

Sangokuden Armored War Gods Saga: Age of the Armored War Gods

Co-Written By: Ten-Faced Paladin and Kamen Rider Chrome

Chapter 10: Flight of the Crimson Phoenix

Mitsuki and Saito stared each other down.

Former friends, now enemies on the battlefield.

The time for words had ended.

Now it was time for action.

This was a duel to decide who deserved the title of Baron, Armored War God of the Ultimate Spear and the fate of Sou Gi.

Saji was about to dismount from his horse to join in when Ukitsu stopped him.

"There's no need to intervene, Genpou-dono. I want to see how Saito-dono handles this himself," Ukitsu told him.

"We all know how it's going to end. I just want a piece of the action," Saji responded.

"Patience, my friend. You will get your chance soon enough."

"One shall stand…" started Mitsuki.

"One shall fall," finished Saito.

"Henshin!"

[BANANA! LOCK ON! COME ON! BANANA ARMS! KNIGHT OF SPEAR!]

[RED BANANA! LOCK ON! COME ON! RED BANANA ARMS! SPEAR OF BLOOD!]

Their Armor Parts dropped on their heads, materializing their Ride Wear suits. Then, the Armor Parts disassembled and with a splash of juice their Banaspears were summoned. Once armored and armed, Baron and Black Baron charged straight for one another, screaming their battle cries. The Crimson Guard and Yellow Turbans began to cheer out for their commander as he clashed against his dark doppelganger.

Sparks burst violently as their Banaspears crashed into one another. Following their opening moves, they began to take swings at each other.

Black Baron brought his Black Banaspear down upon Baron's head, but it was blocked by his opponent's Banaspear. Baron kicked Black Baron back and then thrust his Banaspear forward, only to miss as Black Baron sidestepped.

Pulling his Banaspear back, Baron swung a roundhouse kick into Black Baron's chest, sending him staggering. He then jumped and landed a punch into his opponent's face, knocking him onto the ground.

"Damn you!" Black Baron cursed as he hit his Cutting Blade.

[COME ON! RED BANANA SQUASH!]

Black Baron jabbed his Black Banaspear into the ground and a giant red banana made of energy burst out of the ground and struck Baron, sending him tumbling. Black Baron furiously rushed at him as he got back up and began to viciously land blow after blow upon Baron, not giving him a chance to fight back. He then sent him flying with a swing, and watched as Baron landed on his back.

Baron's army all shouted in encouragement for Baron to get up and he gave them what they wanted.

"I need more power," Baron declared as he switched Lockseeds.

[MANGO! LOCK ON! COME ON! MANGO ARMS! FIGHT OF HAMMER!]

Charging at his enemy again, he swung the Mango Punisher which collided with the Black Banaspear. The powerful collision caused Black Baron to skid backwards.

Baron smashed the head of his Mango Punisher into Black Baron's chest, sending him reeling backwards even further. Black Baron retaliated with a forward thrust, but Baron firmly caught the lance in his hand and pulled Black Baron forward to knee him in the gut. He then landed a brutal blow that slammed into Black Baron's face.

Baron's pride was hurt because he had lost a fight against this Black Baron earlier. His injured pride, plus allowing Sousou to be brainwashed, made him angry. So, Baron was going to savagely destroy the thing that made him angry.

"TAKE THIS!" Baron roared as he hit his Cutting Blade.

[COME ON! MANGO SQUASH!]

The Mango Punisher glowed before Baron swung, causing an explosion that sent Black Baron flying before he landed roughly on the ground.

"Looks like he's not doing so well," commented Saji. Ukitsu was silent as he continued to watch analytically.

Black Baron groaned as he rose back to his feet, supporting himself on his Black Banaspear. He glared at Baron and charged forward. Baron swung his Mango Punisher but Black Baron ducked before he shoulder-tackled Baron. He then proceeded to land several consecutive strikes across Baron's chest, knocking him around, before knocking him down with a violent stab.

"You just don't know when to give up, do you?" Black Baron asked in annoyance as Baron picked himself back up.

"Not until I win," Baron responded confidently as he unlocked another Lockseed.

[PUMPKIN! LOCK ON! COME ON! PUMPKIN ARMS! HAPPY HARVESTING!]

Armed with the Pumpkin Kusarigama, Baron threw the weighted part of his weapon at Black Baron and hit him right between the eyes. Black Baron grunted as he held the spot before Baron twirled his weapon around and sent it flying again. Black Baron cursed as he was struck in the head again and Baron withdrew the pumpkin-shaped weight as Black Baron came charging at him.

Black Baron swung the Black Banaspear down, but Baron caught it with his weapon's chain. He then wrapped the chain around the Black Banaspear and gave his opponent a hard kick in the stomach, knocking him backwards while disarming him at the same time.

"Looks like you're not holding back," observed Black Baron. "Guess I should do the same then." He suddenly vanished in a puff of dark smoke before he suddenly reappeared right in front of a surprised Baron to punch him in the face.

Ukitsu had given Black Baron a few unique abilities that the original Baron did not possess. One of these new abilities was the power to perform short range teleportation to instantly get close to his opponent and take them by surprise.

Baron and Black Baron began to exchange blows, punching at each other furiously. Black Baron felt nostalgic as he and Baron fought barehanded. This was just like back in Fight Club and now they were doing the same thing all over again to decide the fate of a kingdom.

Black Baron's fist connected with the side of Baron's face, but the latter retaliated with a straight punch into his dark counterpart's chest. Black Baron landed a kick into Baron's stomach, but, Baron grabbed hold of the foot and pushed, causing Black Baron to temporarily lose his balance. Baron then performed a sweep kick, knocking Black Baron down.

Baron immediately jumped on top of Black Baron and began to repeatedly punch him in the face. In their current position, Baron had the advantage and Black Baron was unable to defend himself.

Black Baron suddenly vanished in a puff of smoke, causing Baron to hit the ground instead of his foe. Quickly rising to his feet, Baron looked around for his opponent. Black Baron suddenly reappeared in a puff of smoke that obscured Baron's vision.

"Hyah!" Black Baron swung his Black Banaspear like a baseball bat and struck Baron across the chest with all his might. Sparks exploded as Baron screamed and went tumbling before he came to a stop.

"We can keep doing this all day if we have to, but it won't make a difference. I'm still stronger than you, Mitsuki. Just give up and let us through. Maybe you can join us and take down the other kingdoms. It'll be like old times," Black Baron offered. However, Baron was not just going to quit. The condition for their duel was that the loser would be the one unable to fight anymore, and Baron still had plenty of fight in him.

"I can still fight, Saito! This isn't over until you kill me!" Baron snapped as he shakily rose to his feet. He was in pain, but he ignored it.

"Just surrender, Mitsuki," Black Baron told him.

"Never! You messed with my Karin! I don't care why you're doing it! I don't even care about your plan! But you messed with my family, and I'll kill you for that! I will not allow you to disgrace Karin's ambition!"

"You can't beat me. Not as you are now."

"Then I'll just become more than I am now!" Baron shot back.

Baron quickly took the Rider Indicator off his SengokuDriver and replaced it with the Genesis Core. After removing the Pumpkin Lockseed, he unlocked the Lemon Energy Lockseed and Banana Lockseed.

[BANANA!] [LEMON ENERGY!]

He placed his Banana Lockseed into his SengokuDriver's Drive Bay and Lemon Energy Lockseed into the Genesis Core before he pushed down the Cutting Blade.

[LOCK ON! COME ON! MIX!]

The Banana and Lemon Energy Armor Parts descended before they fused into the Jimber Armor Part which came down on Baron. It covered his head before disassembling to form his armor. Like the Jimber Arms worn by Zangetsu and Gaim, it resembled a Jinbaori with the front decorated by a pattern of yellow lemon slices with his personal emblem on the left side. His helmet was once again adorned with the Banana Arms' Burn Casque headpiece as the visor flashed with a yellow light.

[BANANA ARMS! KNIGHT OF SPEAR! JIMBER LEMON! HA-HA!]

Black Baron's eyes widened at this change. Baron was clad in the Jimber Lemon Arms. In his right hand was his Banaspear and attached to his left forearm was a shield shaped like a round lemon slice. The shield was called the Citron Buckler. At that moment, Baron's armor glowed and he suddenly felt refreshed. It was like all the fatigued he felt just vanished.

A spark of realization came upon Black Baron. "Of course. So this was your plan from the start. You were trying to wear me out before you went for the big guns."

Baron confirmed, "That's right. You might be stronger than me, but even you have limits."

Black Baron let out a snort of amusement, "Same old, Mitsuki. This is how you lasted for so long."

Back in the Nega Gang, Mitsuki became second-in-command not just because he was strong, but because he was smart as well. When they went up against another gang, Mitsuki would plan beforehand on how to handle the situation so that the Nega Gang came up on top. It was that strategic mind that made him such a valued member.

He wasn't just dangerous because of his combat prowess but also due to his sharp mind. He wasn't some grunt who followed orders blindly. He was smart and it really hurt the Nega Gang when he left.

Black Baron's expression softened at the good old days when they used to be friends. He put a stop to the nostalgia as he steeled himself before he charged at Baron with the intent to put him down for good.

Ukitsu and Saji watched this development, clearly not expecting Baron to catch his second wind. Saji looked irritated while Ukitsu was impressed. It would seem that Baron's reputation was well-deserved. He would never surrender if he saw a chance for victory, even if it was slim.

"So, what about now?" Saji asked as Black Baron and Baron resumed their clash. He watched as Black Baron and Baron made sparks fly as their weapons slammed against each other. Baron was using his Citron Buckler to great effect, even using it as a melee weapon as he knocked Black Baron down with a shield bash.

"Now we may intervene," Ukitsu confirmed.

The two dismounted and put on their GenesisDrivers. While Saito had promised that his duel with Mitsuki would be between the two of them, the two Genesis Riders made no such promise.

"Henshin," Ukitsu called calmly.

[LEMON ENERGY!]

"Henshin!" Saji called menacingly.

[CHERRY ENERGY!]

They loaded their Energy Lockseeds into their GenesisDrivers and pushed the Seaboll Compressors.

[LOCK ON! SODA!]

The Energy Armor Parts landed on their heads, forming their Genetic Ride Wear suits, before they disassembled to fold onto their bodies and became armor.

[LEMON ENERGY ARMS!]

[CHERRY ENERGY ARMS!]

Unlike many fighters, Baron focused his fury instead of letting his rage cloud his judgment. Also, not many things could anger him. Annoy him, yes, but not anger him. Only few things could make him truly angry.

The loss of his family angered him. The fact that he was too weak to save them angered him. The fact that he joined Saito because of his own weakness angered him. He hated himself for being so weak, which was why he tried to seek out strength. He used to think Saito was strong, but that was far from the truth.

He realized what true strength was the day he met Chitoge Dosan. She had both compassion and strength, and while he never saw himself as a compassionate person, he wasn't some unfeeling monster who trampled over the weak just to feed his own ego. She was strong enough to reach out to him. She was strong enough to care for others.

And he wished he could be as strong as her.

Black Baron had pushed Baron's buttons in the worst possible way. By taking control of Sou Gi, he had essentially harmed the people Baron cared about the most in this world. He wasn't about to let such a thing slide.

Black Baron roared and teleported towards Baron to strike him down, but ended up hitting the Citron Buckler instead. This allowed Baron to strike Black Baron with his Banaspear, knocking him down to his knees. He then bashed Black Baron in the face with the Citron Buckler, knocking him down.

As Baron stood over his opponent, he suddenly found himself being bombarded by energy arrows and raised his Citron Buckler to shield himself. Getting a good look, he saw that it was Duke and Sigurd who were attacking him.

This was supposed to be a duel between himself and Black Baron, but it would seem that the Armored War Devils weren't going to let this be a fair fight after all.

"Hey, that's cheating! They can't interfere!" Riten protested.

"Boo!" Ukin shouted. The rest of the Crimson Guard and Yellow Turbans let out shouts of protests while the White Clothes cheered on both Armored War Devils. They didn't care if this was cheating. They just wanted to win and get on with their mission.

Gakushin said nothing but she agreed with her fellow lieutenants. The duel was supposed to be between Baron and Black Baron. Duke and Sigurd's interference was in violation of the rules.

Sigurd grinned and then launched himself at Baron with his enhanced speed. He slashed his Sonic Arrow across Baron's chest, causing sparks to fly. Baron grunted as he was pushed back but managed to retaliate and strike Sigurd with his Banaspear.

Duke charged in and swung, but his Sonic Arrow met resistance as it slammed against the Citron Buckler. Sigurd got back up and swung his Sonic Arrow but he was parried by the Banaspear.

The two Energy Lockseed-powered Armored War Devils repeatedly struck at Baron. However, he was able to counter and block their blows with his weapon and shield. As Black Baron rose to his feet, he glared at the sight and gritted his teeth in anger.

"MOVE!" Black Baron demanded.

[COME ON! RED BANANA SPARKING!]

With a shout of rage, Black Baron stabbed his Black Banaspear into the ground. Gigantic blood red energy bananas burst out of the ground to attack Baron as Duke and Sigurd were caught in the crossfire and were knocked aside.

"Hey, what are you doing!? We're on your side!" Sigurd snapped angrily.

"This is my fight! Stay out of it!" Black Baron shouted before he vanished in a puff of smoke.

"Perhaps we should stay back and allow him to finish this," Duke recommended. No reason to get on their new comrade's bad side. Sigurd grumbled irritably under his breath. However, he then got a nasty idea and turned his gaze towards Baron's army.

"Or we could take care of Baron's little army while their leader is busy with our partner," Sigurd suggested with a grin before he darted towards Baron's army. With his speed, he would be able to kill them with ease, and none of them would be able to fight back.

Duke decided to follow his partner's suggestion and loaded his Lemon Energy Lockseed into his Sonic Arrow. He looked up at the archers positioned upon the canyon's wall and took aim.

"Goodbye," Duke said as he fired.

[LEMON ENERGY!]

The Sonic Volley attack flew straight for the archers, when all of a sudden it was intercepted by a white and green blur. Then, the same blur zoomed to intercept Sigurd. He did not expect it and sparks flashed as two solid objects collided with each other, followed by screams of pain and outrage. Duke was momentarily startled as Sigurd was tossed backwards, landing on his back.

Who or what had interfered?

"Zangetsu..." Duke identified as Son Go's White Devil stood before them, clad in his Melon Arms, wielding both his Musou Saber and Melon Defender.

Zangetsu glared at both Armored War Devils as he cut a line in the ground with his Musou Saber.

"You shall not pass."

"Zangetsu, what are you doing here?" Gakushin asked. She wasn't ungrateful. Far from it. She was just wondering what Son Go's primary Armored War God was doing here.

"To protect my client's interests," Zangetsu answered cryptically as he turned to face both Genesis Riders, daring them to attack again.

"Dammit!" Sigurd cursed as he rose to his feet. "Why the hell are you here, Zangetsu!?"

"All you both need to know is that while I'm here I won't allow any harm come to Baron's army," Zangetsu replied.

"And how do you expect to protect them from the both of us?" Duke challenged. Zangetsu's answer was to sheathe his Musou Saber and take out his Baihu Lockseed.

"I don't expect to protect them. I know I can protect them," Zangetsu replied as he activated the Lockseed.

[BAIHU!]

Sigurd, Duke and the spectators heard the roar of a tiger as a portal opened at Zangetsu's feet. A tiger made of energy burst out and Zangetsu's Melon Arms Armor vanished before he loaded the Baihu Lockseed.

[LOCK ON!]

And the Cutting Blade came down.

[SOIYA! BAIHU ARMS! BYAKKO NO KIBA, TENSHIN!]

The Aura Tiger fused with Zangetsu, forming his Baihu Arms Armor. His arms glowed as the Baihu Claws materialized. He scraped his claws together and posed menacingly before the two Genesis Riders who could only stare in trepidation at the sight of Zangetsu's present form.

"So, who's going to try something next?" Zangetsu challenged as he brandished his Baihu Claws threateningly.

Sigurd decided to take Zangetsu on and sped towards him. Raising his Sonic Arrow, he brought it down for a slash, only for Zangetsu to block with his right Baihu Claw. Immediately, he struck with the left Baihu Claw before unleashing a painful combo of savage slashes upon Sigurd.

Zangetsu was going to enjoy this opportunity. While Sigurd and Duke had not directly been the cause of Sonsaku's death, it was their involvement in his disappearance that brought upon the circumstances leading towards her demise. They may not be Nise, but they were just as good a target for his revenge.

After Baron recovered from Black Baron's last attack, he tossed his Citron Buckler and hit the Cutting Blade over his Lockseed.

[COME ON! BANANA SQUASH! JIMBER LEMON SQUASH!]

Black Baron reappeared behind Baron and raised his Black Banaspear. Suddenly, he was struck in the back by the flying Citron Buckler which bounced off before it came down to strike him again. It bounced off and performed an arc before it came down and struck him painfully across the back again, forcing him to whirl around and get hit again in the chest. Baron spun around and struck Black Baron across the back with the Banaspear before the Citron Buckler reattached to his arm.

This actually wasn't the first time he had donned Jimber Lemon Arms, but it was the first he used it in actual combat. In the week spent preparing for this day, Baron had actually transformed into this form and trained with it to know what it was capable of.

He had Bravo train with him to familiarize himself with his new strength and skills so he wouldn't be caught unaware or by surprise. He was glad that he managed to pick up his Lemon Energy Lockseed and Genesis Core before he retreated earlier. He just knew they would come in handy.

"Hyah!" Baron kicked Black Baron hard in the chest and sent him flying before he landed on the ground and came to a stop.

"Saito, this is the end for you!" Baron declared as he hit his Cutting Blade, twice.

[COME ON! BANANA AU LAIT! JIMBER LEMON AU LAIT!]

He first threw the Citron Buckler like a Frisbee and the flat side of the shield attached to Black Baron's chest. Immediately it glowed and erected a lemon-shaped energy barrier around him. He tried to move but the barrier had him completely immobilized.

Baron bent his knees as his Banaspear ignited, charging up with yellow flames. He then shot towards Black Baron, gliding fast across the ground. His dark counterpart's eyes widened as he saw Baron coming but the barrier prevented him from dodging.

Baron let out a roar as he aimed for the Citron Buckler, shattering the barrier as he struck with the Banaspear using all of his might. The attack struck explosively, sending Black Baron flying. His armor released a flash and vanished as he tumbled through the air and landed hard on the ground.

Meanwhile, Duke had joined in Sigurd's fight against Zangetsu. His enhanced strength and his partner's enhanced speed should be enough to beat Zangetsu. Unfortunately for them, Zangetsu possessed both speed and strength. Despite possessing enhanced S-Class Energy Lockseeds, the power of Zangetsu's Sovereign Lockseed vastly dwarfed their own. Sparks flew as they fought but Zangetsu had the obvious advantage.

Realizing this, Duke decided that fighting Zangetsu now would be foolhardy. However, Sigurd did not feel the same way.

Sigurd was frustrated. The only thing standing between them and Baron's army was Zangetsu. He would intercept any attack aimed at Baron's army before launching a devastating counter. His speed outmatched Sigurd's and his strength was above Duke's. Nothing they did could break through Zangetsu's defense.

Sigurd decided the best way to finish off Zangetsu was to go all out, so he reached down to his Seaboll Compressor and pushed it in twice.

"Take this, Zangetsu!" Sigurd shouted.

[CHERRY ENERGY SPARKING!]

Seeing this, Zangetsu prepared his own counterattack. He casually pushed down the Cutting Blade, activating the Squash finisher function.

[SOIYA! BAIHU SQUASH!]

Zangetsu's Baihu Claws glowed and began to spin like drills. Sigurd leapt up and came at Zangetsu to execute a flying kick, red energy crackling around his extended foot. Zangetsu leapt up towards him and they both met halfway. Sigurd's foot connected with Zangetsu's chest, but did nothing as crimson energy splashed from the impact point. Zangetsu roared back and struck Sigurd with the spinning Baihu Claws, causing the two to break apart with explosive force. Zangetsu landed on his feet like a cat while Sigurd landed roughly on his back. His chestplate was smoking and showing obvious signs of damage. He also began to realize that he had no chance to beat Zangetsu.

This just incensed him even more. Duke looked at his partner. He knew he hated to lose. His pride would not allow him to admit defeat. But with Saito's defeat and Zangetsu's intervention, their plan was falling apart.

The spectators became silent. The wind blew past as they saw that Saito had fallen as the true Baron stood victoriously over him. It wasn't long before the Crimson Guard and Yellow Turbans cheered boisterously while the White Clothes hung their heads in despair.

Saito gritted his teeth and rose to his feet in anger. "Is this the strength you have!? Are you strong because you serve that blonde brat of a loli!? Huh!? Is that it!?"

"Saito, all I've done is found a reason to fight," Baron answered. He then watched as a purple aura began to envelop his old friend. What was happening to him?

"This isn't over, Mitsuki! Just because you're stronger than me, doesn't mean you'll always be strong! You may have beaten me now but I'll keep coming back, stronger and stronger!" The purple aura around his body intensified. "No matter how many times you strike me down, I will...I will...AAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!"

Saito's eyes bulged as he threw his head back and screamed, the dark aura enveloping him completely. Suddenly, dark vines with black leaves erupted from his SengokuDriver and wrapped around his body like a cocoon. Baron's eyes widened as he witnessed the phenomenon.

The vines drew backwards to reveal Saito again, only this time he had completely changed. His skin was now dark and leathery as organic purple armor covered his forearms and shins. His feet were exposed as well and looked beast-like. His body was covered in a mix of black, purple and white armor. His chest armor was bone white with purple vein-like patterns all over it. He had broad purple shoulder pads with black vein-like patterns covering them. A tattered black cape hung from his back. His fingers were tipped with purple claws. Finally, his head was covered by a helmet with demonic ram horns that curved forward and his face was skeletal and bone white, with an open maw filled with sharp teeth. His eyes were just empty sockets with a purple glow in them.

He looked like some kind of demon from Hell.

The creature that now stood in Saito's place let out a loud roar as if announcing itself.

Baron stared back in horror at the monster Saito had become.

'So this is the price you've paid for using the RinJyuKen's power. Saito, now I truly pity you.'

Zangetsu was surprised by this development as well. He didn't know what had happened, but he had a feeling that the RinJyuKen Akugata had something to do with it. Sigurd was just as shock but Duke was simply curious.

Saito growled as dark energy gathered in his right hand to form a wicked broadsword. The blade was jagged and made from a strange purple alloy that radiated with dark energy. The grip was bone white and the guard resembled a pair of bat-like wings extending from a skull that was set between the grip and blade. This was Saito's new weapon, the Overedge.

Saito snarled and glared at Baron before he rushed towards him. Baron stood his ground as Saito swung his sword at him. Baron blocked with the Banaspear, but the force of the blow blasted him across the battlefield, sending him tumbling along the ground. Saito then jumped into the air and came down upon Baron, forcing the latter to use the Citron Buckler to defend himself. Saito did not let that stop him as he repeatedly rained down blow after blow upon Baron and finally shattered the shield. Baron cried out in pain as the blade dug into his arm. Saito then grabbed hold of him and tossed him up before swinging his sword like a baseball bat.

Baron was sent violently tumbling across the ground and in a flash his Jimber Arms was reduced back to his default Banana Arms.

"Boss!" cried Gakushin.

"Baron-sama!" exclaimed Ukin and Riten.

"Stay back! This is still my fight and it's not over until one of us is down for the count!" Baron ordered. Saito rushed him again and Baron blocked with his Banaspear which shattered from the blow, allowing Saito to land a vertical slash across Baron's chest. He then punched Baron repeatedly in the face and chest before knocking the wind out of him with a punch to the stomach. Baron collapsed to his knees and then let out a grunt as Saito's sword slammed down on his shoulder, hard.

The White Clothes cheered on their general, not caring that he had turned into a monster. All that mattered was that Baron was going to die.

Baron grabbed hold of the sword digging into his shoulder and his eyes met with Saito's. Any trace of the man he once knew was gone. With his humanity gone, an animalistic and primal desire to kill replaced all rationality. He then looked to Sousou who continued to watch and gritted his teeth.

"Karin...Shunran...Shuran...Keifa..." Baron uttered as he forced himself to rise back to his feet. "That's right. I can't lose." His eyes narrowed and he let out a roar before he gave Saito a punch in the face, knocking him backwards.

Everyone watched, stunned, as Baron was back on his feet despite the punishment he took. He raised his right hand and looked at Saito, and then he looked past the monster to look straight at Sousou and her hypnotized officers. He pointed straight at her.

"Karin, I want you to watch closely! I want you to witness my strength!" He clenched his fist and let out a roar as he punched Saito one more time, sending him skidding halfway across the battlefield.

Baron continued, "I swore to help you realize your ambition! Since that day, that has been my ambition! That has been my reason for following you! I do not recognize the Sousou that sits in front of me like some kind of doll! The Sousou I swore an oath to is a strong woman who took whatever she wanted with all her might!"

Baron charged at Saito and landed a kick into his face, knocking him back.

Baron finished, "So, wake the fuck up, you damn loli! If you're going to unite the land, then you'll do it right! And I'll stand with you every step of the way!"

The Crimson Guard and Yellow Turbans were moved by Baron's words and started to pound their spears on the ground. Then, they started to roar in unison as they shouted Baron and Sousou's name.

"BANZAI BARON-SAMA! BANZAI SOUSOU-SAMA! BANZAI BARON-SAMA! BANZAI SOUSOU-SAMA! BANZAI BARON-SAMA! BANZAI SOUSOU-SAMA!"

Baron glared at the Kaijin that used to be Saito. "Do you hear that? That's how strongly they believe in us! Sousou and I will make history and we won't let anyone get in our way!"

He punched Saito in the face.

"Not the RinJyuKen!"

He followed up with a right hook that slammed into Saito's jaw.

"Not the Armored War Devils!"

He buried his left fist into Saito's stomach.

"And certainly not you!"

He punctuated his last statement with an uppercut that smashed into Saito's chin, stunning him.

Suddenly there was a bright flash of light in the sky, and it was not the sun. It was something else entirely as it began to descend from the Heavens.

The eyes of all individuals present widened as they beheld the majestic golden dragon statue which served as the physical representation of the Mandate of Heaven.

"The Seal of Heaven!?" Sigurd gasped. Sousou had sent out countless search parties in hopes of finding it, but to no avail. Now, it had appeared in response to Baron's words and resolve. This was bad. When it appeared, it had given Gridon and Zangetsu access to the Celestial Armor. Did this mean Baron was one of the chosen warriors?

Indeed he was.

One of Baron's spare Lockseeds floated in front of the Seal of Heaven before it was transformed into a new one which depicted a phoenix on it and marked with the code S.L.S.-ZHUQIAO.

After that, the Seal of Heaven vanished once more, leaving behind the newly transformed Lockseed. Not questioning the Seal of Heaven's appearance, Baron took the new Lockseed into his hand. It felt hot in his hand, but in a good way, and that was how he liked it.

"Alright, time to see what this thing can do," Baron stated as he hit the unlocking switch.

[ZHUQIAO!]

A circular portal of fire opened above him and a flaming phoenix shot out of it. It flew around, and everyone who witnessed it gazed in awe at the majestic firebird. Baron removed the Lockseed he was using, and then locked the Zhuqiao Lockseed into his SengokuDriver before he pushed down the Cutting Blade.

[LOCK ON!]

The revealed core had the character for 'phoenix' and the lid's backside showed an ornate broadsword.

[COME ON! ZHUQIAO ARMS! FLIGHT OF PHOENIX!]

The flaming phoenix flew back towards Baron, releasing a loud call before it fused with him. The flames enveloped Baron's body, but instead of burning him, they peeled away to reveal his new form.

Zangetsu commented as he witnessed this, "So, now it's your turn, Baron."

Duke was a well-studied man and had himself read the Celestial Chronicles. He could only utter one thing as Baron's new armor was revealed.

"The Celestial Armor of the Vermilion Phoenix..."

Baron was now clad in golden and crimson armor with the face of a phoenix on his chest. Hanging from his back like a cape was a pair of metallic wings. His shoulders resembled the talons of a phoenix and his attached headpiece sported wings on the sides with his visor turning red. His gauntlets had talons which were folded back against his forearms.

Gakushin, Riten and Ukin stared in awe at the transformed Crimson Enforcer. The Crimson Guard and Yellow Turbans were also struck speechless as they witnessed his transformation.

"It's just like in the prophecy..." uttered Gakushin.

"Baron-sama has inherited the power of the Sovereigns!" Ukin and Riten yelled out, finishing Gakushin's sentence.

Saito didn't look impressed in the slightest as he roared and attacked Baron. Quickly, Baron's Zhuqiao Talons unfolded and he used them on Saito before his opponent could land a blow first. Baron was relentless in his assault, slashing his former friend furiously with his Zhuqiao Talons. Saito used his Overedge to parry Baron's talons, but then Baron kicked him hard in the chest, sending him flying back. He recovered and picked himself up, glaring furiously at Baron.

Suddenly, Saito's cape morphed and spread out of his back in the form of a pair of demonic bat-like wings. The emergence of the wings just made the Kaijin an even more frightening and demonic sight to behold. Using his wings, he took off into the air. In response, Baron spread his own wings and followed Saito into the air to resume their fight in the sky.

Saito and Baron became engaged in an aerial dogfight as they clashed explosively. Flames trailed behind Baron as he soared while dark energy trailed behind Saito as he flew.

"Go, Baron-sama! Go!" Riten cheered loudly, pumping her fists.

Sparks flew as they clashed in the sky, slashing with their weapons as they tried to subdue one another. They smashed into each other repeatedly, creating explosive impacts. Booms and bangs were heard as they collided and everyone tried to follow the fight in the sky to the best of their ability. However, the fighters' speed was hard to follow and they just blurred around with only the booms of their impact telling the spectators that they were engaged in combat. The only way the spectators could follow was from the trails that they left behind.

Making some distance between them, Saito roared and fired a barrage of dark energy spheres at Baron. In retaliation, Baron threw fireballs at the dark energy spheres. Both attacks collided and exploded as they made contact until they stopped.

Baron smirked as he realized that this was indeed the power he had been seeking. After seeing how Gridon had used it, Baron wanted it. He was patient though. He knew he couldn't demand for it. He had to prove himself worthy, and the Seal of Heaven had seen how strongly he supported Sousou's ambition. So it had bestowed on him this new power.

"My turn then," said Baron before he shot towards Saito and slashed. Sparks flew as they clashed but Baron continued to attack with furious swings and slashes.

Switching tactics, Baron folded his talons and summoned his primary Arms Weapon. Flames burst from his hands as he clasped them together before forming into a magnificent broadsword. The guard was shaped like the wings of a phoenix and the blade was a mix of crimson and gold.

It was called the Suzakalibur and it was his to wield.

The Suzakalibur and Overedge collided, creating a shower of sparks as they ground against each other. Saito snarled as Baron growled while they tried to push their blades to strike each other down. Dark energy and flames clashed violently as the two stared each other down.

They broke apart again and Saito fired his dark energy spheres. Baron countered with fireballs that he launched with his wings and multiple explosions bloomed in the sky. In the midst of the explosions around them, the two combatants battled it out again.

Baron roared as he swung his Suzakalibur and it shattered the Overedge. Saito let out a roar of pain as the blade dug into his armored body and pushed him backwards.

"You're finished." Baron reached for his Cutting Blade and pushed it down twice to execute his finishing move.

[COME ON! ZHUQIAO AU LAIT!]

Baron's wings became enveloped in flames that extended and formed massive wings of flames. Saito's eyes widened at the sight of Baron's impressive wingspan.

"SAITOOOOOOOOOO!" roared Baron as the cry of a phoenix followed. He rocketed towards Saito with his blazing wings. He realigned his body, aiming his feet at Saito to execute a dropkick as the flames of his wings enveloped his body. Saito was unable to evade as Baron's feet smashed into his chest. He used the momentum to push Saito towards the ground, screaming out loud before they both crashed, causing an explosion.

BOOOOOOOOOMMMMMMM!

Everyone who witnessed the explosion was speechless. Once the smoke and flames cleared, a huge crater was revealed and Baron could be seen standing in the centre of it with Saito now restored to human form as he lay at Baron's feet. Saito's SengokuDriver and Red Banana Lockseed were ruined beyond repair now and lay in pieces.

"Heh, looks like you've really become strong, Mitsuki," Saito smiled weakly. "Guess I'm the one who's wrong, huh?"

"Not wrong, just different," Baron responded neutrally. It was rather ironic. He once looked up to Saito at his lowest. With no family and no purpose, he joined the Nega Gang to find a reason to live. Now it was Saito who was looking up at him, and Baron was able to find a new source of strength.

"I was just close-minded then..." Saito uttered as he breathed his last breath. His skin turned grey as his body broke down, becoming dust that was scattered by the wind. Baron closed his eyes and clenched his fists.

"Unforgivable..."

The rage he felt right now was intense. Ukitsu had taken advantage of an old friend of his. They might have had their differences, but once upon a time, they had been as close as brothers. Then things changed, and they had a falling out, severing their ties to each other. Now he was gone, and it was all because of Ukitsu.

He narrowed his eyes and glared at both Duke and Sigurd, the men responsible for bringing Saito to this world and giving him that accursed power. They were the ones who had forced his hand and now they were going to pay.

Spreading his wings, Baron launched a barrage of fireballs at both Armored War Devils. Immediately, Duke held up a talisman which raised a dome-shaped barrier around both himself and Sigurd. Baron continued to throw fireballs at the dome. When that didn't work, he shot out a stream of flames like a flamethrower at the barrier.

Sigurd and Duke didn't like their odds right now. They were facing not just one, but two Armored War Gods that were clad and empowered by the Celestial Armor. Zangetsu alone managed to handle the two of them, but now Baron was added to the mix and he was furious. The two were already beginning to feel the heat as Baron's flames continued to slam against Duke's protective barrier.

"Congratulations, Baron-dono! Today you have proven your worth! Clearly, you are one of the warriors chosen to wield the power of the Sovereigns! We stand no chance against both you and Zangetsu-dono! In light of this, my partner and I will now take our leave. We will meet again," Duke said before he and Sigurd teleported away, leaving behind their White Cloth soldiers.

Baron dropped his arms to his sides before he threw his head back and screamed in anger, "AAAAAARRRRGGGGGGHHHHHHHHH!" All his rage and grief was in that scream.

Once he got that out of his system, he turned his attention towards Zangetsu and asked, "What are you doing here, Zangetsu?"

"You came to me, remember? I just came to see why to sate my curiosity," Zangetsu replied.

"I already paid for what I needed from you, and extra for you not to ask questions," Baron retorted.

"You know that's not how I work, and it's a good thing too. Those Genesis Riders would've slaughtered your entire army while you were busy with your opponent."

"I could've handled them," Baron defended.

"Not before they killed most of your men. Pride comes before the fall," Zangetsu advised. With his speed, Sigurd would've killed every man where they stood. Duke's strength made him a powerhouse among the Genesis Riders, meaning not many would be able to stop him. With Baron's attention focused on Saito, those two would've slaughtered Baron's army.

"Just go, Zangetsu. I can handle this now," ordered Baron.

"Very well, but next time, don't be afraid to ask for help. We're allies for a reason," Zangetsu advised as he prepared to leave.

"Thanks," Baron said, causing Zangetsu to pause.

"Pardon?"

"Thanks for protecting my soldiers. I owe you one," Baron elaborated.

"You've paid me already, remember? Consider this one on the house," Zangetsu replied before he sped away in a white and gold blur.

Baron turned to face the White Clothes. He glared at them hotly. Oh, he so wanted to watch them burn for what had happened. His glare was so intense it was like he wanted them to burst into flames, right there on the spot.

"I've defeated your general! According to the terms of the duel, you must surrender or else!" Baron threatened.

Saito had been defeated while Duke and Sigurd had fled, leaving the White Clothes to their fate. However, the White Clothes didn't seem like they were willing to surrender. Was that courage or stupidity? Maybe a bit of both.

One of the braver White Cloth soldiers stepped forward and shouted, "Don't think you can scare us! We know you won't dare harm Sousou as long as we have her! As long as we have her in our grasp, you won't dare to attack! She is the perfect shield against you!"

"A shield, you say?" Baron's frown deepened. "Well, in just a few moments, your shield is about to rip you apart."

"What are you-?" the White Cloth soldier started, only to be interrupted by music that came out of nowhere. "What is that music!?"

"The song that marks your end," Baron grinned victoriously as the next phase of his plan had begun.

In the rear of the Crimson Guard and Yellow Turban army were Bravo, Chouryou, and the Chou Sisters. With Ukitsu and Saji gone, it was time for them to implement their part of the plan. The Chou Sisters were ready, with their instruments and microphone. It was time to sing a song of victory.

"Alright, my lovely angels! Sing! Sing and break this evil spell!" Bravo cheered.

"Alright, Chii-chan! Ren-chan! Ikuyo!" Chokaku started.

"Let's do this!" cheered Choho.

"Yes," agreed Choryo.

When Marcus started writing the song, he had been inspired by Mitsuki. The lyrics reflected Mitsuki's indomitable will, his drive to move forward, and his desire to fulfil Sousou's ambition no matter what it took.

He even had the perfect title for it:

"Never Surrender"

Butsukaru tabi ni Ignition, hisoka kokoro moyasu

Ippo datte shinai ze Back Step

Ikari no me ga Turn Me On

Ugoki midare teru ze

Kanzen kakutei… Look, I'm A Winner

As the Chou Sisters began to sing, Sousou began to blink as her eyes returned to normal. The eyes of her officers were also beginning to change back to normal as well.

Kachi tsudzukeru mono dake ga

Kono sekai shihai suru no sa

Dare ni mo watasanai dare ni mo yuzuranai

Shinji rareru no wa jibun dake

Top kiwameru made

Dare mo ga shitagai dare mo ga hirefusu

Saikyou no kajitsu kono te de

Tsukamu made Never Surrender

"What...?" Sousou uttered in confusion as she found herself sitting on a palanquin instead of her throne. "What's going on? Where am I?"

"Karin-sama, why do we look like we're heading into battle?" Juniku asked in confusion.

The Kako Sisters dismounted from their horses as Kyocho, Kakuka and Ten'i did the same. They looked like they had just woken up from a dream. They were trying to make sense of what was going on. Sousou looked ahead and saw Baron with the Crimson Guard and Yellow Turbans behind him. She then looked over her shoulder at the White Clothes who were armed. It looked like she was about to go to war against her own Armored War Gods and their men.

Miageru biru no Reflection

Tsuyosa ga mata tarinai

Isogi ashi asu Step Forward

"Karin!" Baron called. "You see those men in white? They were trying to use you as a puppet in order to attack our allies! Why don't you show them what happens when they try to manipulate you?"

Sousou's eyes narrowed as she processed this and drew her scythe. She leapt off the palanquin and turned to face the White Cloth soldiers holding it up. They stood stunned and it cost them. Swiftly, she swung her scythe, aiming for their throats. Blood splashed the ground and they gagged before they dropped to the ground, dropping the front of the palanquin as the two soldiers behind them gasped and released their grip as well.

Kakoton and Kakoen followed Sousou's lead and drew their own swords. Ten'i and Kyocho also took out their weapons and glared at the White Clothes.

"Looks like you won't be starting any wars, you assholes!" Baron shouted.

Ubawareta mono wasurete

Ubaikaesu sono tame dake

Dare ni mo tanoranai dare ni mo ikasanai

Ore no mae wo hashirasenai

Tatoe kizutsu-itemo

Dare mo ga tekiwanai dare mo ga todokanai

Yuuiitsu muni no sonzai ni naru

Sono hi made Never Surrender

The White Cloth commander gulped as a bead of cold sweat rolled down his brow. Ukitsu and Saji had abandoned them and now their puppets had been freed from their control. Was this the end?

No, this was not the end. The White Cloth Society still had the blessing of the gods and would use that to prove their might.

"Don't think we'll surrender so easily! You may have freed Sousou and her officers, but we still have the power to take you all down!" the White Cloth commander declared and revealed what he meant as he reached out from his robe and took out a GenesisDriver! The rest of the White Cloth army also took out SengokuDrivers of their own.

This was a surprising development but Baron maintained his cool as the White Clothes strapped on their Drivers. However, they had made one fatal mistake.

They had forgotten about the archers that Baron had positioned on the walls of the canyon.

Shibai was with the archers and she pointed her fan at the White Clothes below as she loudly ordered, "NOW!"

Sousou and her officers went for cover as the archers fired at the White Clothes as they started to activate their Lockseeds. Arrows rained down on the White Clothes, and many of them fell from the arrows before they could transform. The remaining White Clothes urgently transformed to summon their armor for protection.

[MATSUBOKKURI ENERGY!]

[MATSUBOKKURI!]

The White Cloth commander quickly locked in his Matsubokkuri Energy Lockseed as his soldiers also did the same with their Matsubokkuri Lockseeds.

[LOCK ON!]

[LOCK ON!]

Cutting Blades were pushed down as the commander pushed in his GenesisDriver's Seaboll Compressor.

[LIQUID! MATSUBOKKURI ENERGY ARMS! SEI, YOISHO, WASSHOI!]

[MATSUBOKKURI ARMS! ICHIGEKI IN THE SHADOW!]

The white-clad soldiers turned black as so many Matsubokkuri Armor Parts and a single Matsubokkuri Energy Armor Part dropped out of the sky and landed on their heads. Their Armor Parts disassembled and folded onto their bodies. They all looked identical, all looked just like Kurokage. These were the Kurokage Troopers.

Unlike Kurokage though, they each sported a white scarf that was tied around their necks. It was probably to signify their affiliation to the White Clothes.

The Kurokage-Shin who was in charge, aka the Kurokage Commander, pointed his Kagematsu-Shin arrogantly at the Sou Gi army. Like the Kurokage Troopers, he also wore a white scarf, but his was also gold around the edges to show that his rank was above them.

Now that they were clad in armor, arrows were useless. While many of them had fallen before they could transform, the army of black clad Kurokage Troopers was still an intimidating sight to behold.

The Kurokage Commander boasted, "Do you see now? We have been given power! We may not have your numbers, but our united force will decimate you completely! This is why we are confident that we will be able to crush your kingdom, Son Go and Shoku!"

Kachi tsudzukeru mono dake ga

Kono sekai shihai suru no sa

Dare ni mo watasanai dare ni mo yuzuranai

Shinji rareru no wa jibun dake

Top kiwameru made

Dare mo ga shitagai dare mo ga hirefusu

Saikyou no kajitsu kono te de

Tsukamu made Never Surrender

A moment of silence passed after that declaration before Baron's shoulders shook. He then threw his head backwards and laughed hysterically.

Angered, and a bit confused, by Baron's laughter, the Kurokage Commander demanded, "What's so funny!?"

"Oh, I'm just laughing because..." Baron's tone turned dark, "You idiots actually think you stand a chance with those cheap knockoffs."

"Knockoffs...?"

Baron ordered, "Everyone, show these guys what we've got!"

The Crimson Guard and Yellow Turbans took out their own Lockseeds. The Lockseeds included the ones used to summon the Dandeliners and Tulip Hoppers as well as the Suika Arms. Not everyone had them, but enough did and that was the most important.

The Lockvehicle Lockseeds were unlocked before they were tossed. They grew and unfolded into their vehicle forms which the Crimson Guard and Yellow Turbans quickly mounted.

After witnessing their power when used by Son Go's own army, Baron decided to take a page out of Zangetsu's strategy book and use them to his advantage. The shocked looks he got from his enemies were worth it.

As for the Suika Lockseeds, well there was something special about them. Unlike most Lockseeds that would summon Inves when unlocked by someone without a SengokuDriver, the Suika Lockseeds could only summon the Suika Arms. That was why large Helheim portals opened, dropping the Suika Arms.

Another thing he discovered was that the Suika Arms could also be operated like Lockvehicle. Meaning a SengokuDriver was not needed to operate it.

Soldiers quickly boarded the Suika Arms and activated them.

[YOROI MODE!]

[GYRO MODE!]

The Kurokage Troopers froze as now the odds seem a bit stacked against them. Tulip Hoppers were aiming their guns at them, Dandeliner hovered in the air threateningly and finally Suika Arms stood or hovered in the air, looking intimidating with their guns and Suika Sojinto.

The Kurokage Commander trembled in rage and ordered, "KILL THEM! KILL THEM ALL!" He rushed forward and the Kurokage Troopers followed him.

What a bunch of fools.

"Aim for the belts!" Baron ordered. The Crimson Guard and Yellow Turbans charged right back at the Kurokage Troopers, causing both armies to crash violently into each other.

It was absolute carnage. Tulip Hoppers blasted at the Kurokage Troopers, blowing them away. Dandeliners also fired and killed the Kurokage Troopers on the ground. The Gyro Mode Suika Arms fired their Seed Vulcans and the Yoroi Mode Suika Arms flattened them with their fists and feet. Occasionally, they struck down the Kurokage Troopers with their Suika Sojinto.

The Crimson Guardsmen and Yellow Turbans that were not armed with Lockvehicle Lockseeds or Suika Lockseeds were aided by Bravo and Chouryou. The spiky Armored War God brutally cut down the Kurokage Troopers as his soldiers made sure to aim for the belts. When surrounded, the Kurokage Troopers were confused and their belts were easily taken from them. Some were even able to cancel out their transformations by hitting the Lockseeds as hard as they could.

"Ora, ora, ora, ora!" Chouryou yelled. She was enjoying herself. While she enjoyed being Marcus' bodyguard, she loved fighting and she rarely had a chance to fight like this. Now she was truly in her element and her Flying Dragon Crescent Blade was being used to its full potential as she cut down the Kurokage Troopers and sent them flying. Their armor did nothing to protect them against her might.

She was no Ryofu Hosen, but she came pretty close.

Kakoton, Kakoen, Kyocho and Ten'i attacked with the Crimson Guard and Yellow Turbans. The petite fighters used their immense strength and weapons to send the Kurokage Troopers flying while the Kako Sisters used their sword skills to strike down their opponents. Kyocho flattened them with her spiked ball and chain while Ten'i bashed them with her giant yo-yo. They may be small, but they were strong and made a formidable pair.

The Crimson Guard and Yellow Turban took losses, but not as much as their opponents. The Kurokage Troopers fell as their Lockseeds and Drivers littered the ground along with their bodies.

Sousou smiled wickedly as she fought against the Kurokage Troopers. She was indeed mad. She was angered by the fight that these men were trying to manipulate her and use her to attack their allies. No man had the right to control her. She was Sousou Motoku, Queen of Sou Gi, and future ruler of all of China.

Juniku and Kakuka took cover with the Chou Sisters. The trio of idols continued to sing, this time a song to boost their soldiers' morale. It also had an additional effect of increasing their fighting strength and spirit. It was all just magical enhancements and it truly showed when the Yellow Turbans were seen overpowering the armored Kurokage Troopers.

Baron remained stationary as the Kurokage Troopers attacked him. They were cut down with ease by his Suzakalibur. Gakushin hit one with a kick and sent another flying with a punch. Ukin was at her side with her dual swords and slashing at the enemies. The two women aimed for the belts as instructed and knocked out their Matsubokkuri Lockseeds. Once their armor was forced to power down, Ukin cut them down and moved on.

Riten just laughed and cheered excitedly, "HAHAHAHAHAHAHA! THIS IS AMAZING!" The reason for her excited cries was because she was piloting a Suika Arms in Yoroi Mode.

Riten fired the Seed Vulcans, gunning down scores of Kurokage Troopers. She also used the Suika Sojinto to cut them down. With the Suika Arms' monstrous strength and thick armor, none of them could touch her.

The Kurokage Commander targeted Sousou and charged right at her. If he managed to strike her down, then Sou Gi would be without its leader, and the loss of morale would force them to surrender. However, Baron saw him coming and immediately intercepted him.

The Kurokage Commander swung his Kagematsu-Shin, only to be countered by Baron's Suzakalibur. Baron repeatedly slashed the Kurokage Commander with his sword, causing sparks to erupt with each blow. The Kurokage Commander used his Kagematsu-Shin to block but the polearm was sliced in half before Baron repeatedly slashed him with his blade.

The Suzakalibur ignited and Baron brought his blazing sword down for a vertical slash. Finally, Baron stabbed his blazing Suzakalibur right where the enemy's Matsubokkuri Energy Lockseed was located.

Steel met flesh as the blade ran right through like a hot knife through butter as the Kurokage Commander went rigid. The Suzakalibur had gone right through his GenesisDriver and Energy Lockseed, causing sparks and electricity to burst from both devices. Baron withdrew his weapon and held a flaming palm in front of his enemy's face.

"Burn," Baron commanded and the Kurokage Commander let out an agonizing death cry before he was covered in flames and exploded.

Seeing as the combined forces of the Crimson Guard and Yellow Turbans were nearly done, Baron decided to clean things up.

[COME ON! ZHUQIAO SPARKING!]

Baron took off into the sky and flames enveloped his wings. His armor glowed, turning gold as the fire began to envelop his entire body before morphing into an avian shape. All witnesses stood in awe, gaping speechlessly at the sight, as the flames surrounding Baron expanded and took shape. They saw wings, talons, majestic tail feathers and a head with a beak that opened to release a shrill cry.

A flaming phoenix now occupied the sky and its gaze was locked upon the Kurokage Troopers.

Sousou knew what this meant and ordered, "Fall back!" She didn't want any of her soldiers and her subordinates to be caught in the attack's blast zone. The Sou Gi forces immediately scattered.

The blazing phoenix let out a shriek and shot down towards the Kurokage Troopers. It continued to accelerate, gaining speed and the black-clad Kurokage Troopers could only scream in fright before it hit.

First there was the impact, followed by a massive explosion that sent all the Kurokage Troopers flying. None were spared as they let out screams of shock and disbelief as the phoenix came down and immediately wiped them all out.

Baron stood in the middle of a smoking crater, its circumference surrounding him. The Kurokage Troopers all lay sprawled on the ground with their SengokuDrivers and Lockseeds littering the ground. Fortunately for them, their suits of armor protected them from the worst of it before they vanished. Unfortunately, they no longer had any way to fight against Baron.

The White Clothes stared in shock and horror at what Baron had done and now realized what he was capable of.

They also realized how fucked they were.

With no way of fighting back and injuries that would hinder their fighting capabilities, the soldiers of the White Cloth Society did the only sensible thing.

"RETREAT!"

They ran. The White Clothes screamed as they all fled once they realized that they were completely outmatched. Without Sousou, they had no way to protect themselves from Baron's wrath. Without their Drivers and Lockseeds, they stood no chance against the Sou Gi army and their Armored War Gods. Without Duke and Sigurd, they no longer had anyone to protect them.

This was the chance the Sou Gi archers had been waiting for as they fired, hitting the fleeing White Clothes with arrows as they tried to escape their judgment. Not only did they use their crossbows but Riten's arrow launchers as well. Many of the white-clad soldiers fell as they tried to escape, only to fall with arrows covering their backs.

Shibai looked pleased as the cowards ran.

"Gakushin, give the order! Wipe them all out!" Baron furiously commanded.

Gakushin loudly gave the order, "Pursue them! Don't let any of them escape! Take no prisoners!"

Bravo added, "You heard the lady! Get them!"

"Good luck, everyone!" Chokaku cheered in encouragement as the soldiers chased after the enemy. The Crimson Guard and Yellow Turbans roared as they gave chase, running past Sousou and Juniku. Kakoton, Kakoen, Kyocho and Ten'i all joined in the chase, leaving Sousou with Juniku and Baron.

"Karin-sama, are you alright?" Juniku asked worriedly.

"I'm fine, Keifa. I just have a very nasty headache," Sousou answered. Being mind-controlled was not a pleasant experience. It was like being trapped in one's mind while your body followed someone else's commands.

"How can we be sure we're cured?" Juniku asked.

"Easy," Baron smirked. "...Little Loli."

WHAM!

Baron gripped his shin and hopped on one foot. "Ow...yup, she's back to normal!"

"Yes, and there's more of that if you call me that again," she growled after kicking him.

Baron smiled at Sousou. If she was able to scold him like this, then she was back to normal. He resisted the urge to pat her head. She was his ruler after all.

Baron put down the leg she had kicked and Sousou took a moment to look at his new Zhuqiao Arms Armor. Clearly this was proof that the Seal of Heaven had chosen her Armored War God and granted him the power of the Sovereigns.

"Baron, kneel," Sousou ordered and Baron dropped down on one knee. Leaning forward, she planted a kiss on his forehead. "Thank you for saving me, my sworn brother."

"That's my job, Little Loli," Baron smiled. Sousou scowled but sighed as she relaxed. No sense in getting mad at him right now.

"Come on. We have some white scum to slaughter," Sousou ordered.

"You took the words right out of my mouth," Baron grinned before he lifted her bridal style and took off. Sousou cried out as she was lifted into the air by Baron but relaxed as she saw Baron's army and the fleeing White Clothes.


The fleeing White Clothes were chased towards the other end of the canyon. The Crimson Guard's archers had taken out quite a number of them as they left a trail of arrow-riddled bodies behind while trying to retreat. The roars of the Crimson Guard and Yellow Turbans motivated them to pick up the pace lest they be killed.

They needed to get back to Saji and Ukitsu, regroup and come up with a new plan. But first they needed to get out of this canyon alive. Spotting the exit, they thought they were home free. However, they soon discovered that their exit was blocked by a makeshift wall of sandbags, piled high to prevent them from getting through.

"What do we do!?"

"We climb! Climb fast, you fools!"

On the other side of the wall was a group of archers, lined up with crossbows. Their arrows were lit and aimed at the wall. Baron had ordered them to wait until they saw a least one of the white-clad bastards trying to climb over the wall.

As soon as the Crimson Guard saw a soldier clad in white with a hood over his head, the archers knew that it was time.

"Fire!" the captain commanded and the archers fired not at the White Cloth soldier but at the wall of sandbags.

BOOOOM!

The sandbags began to explode once they were hit by the flaming arrows. The truth was the bags were not filled with sand at all, but explosive black powder. It was a volatile substance that reacted explosively once exposed to fire. Only a single flame was needed to cause a violent chain reaction as the bags filled with black powder exploded, blowing away the White Clothes and killing them. The loud explosions caused confusion and panic to spread among their ranks as the remaining White Clothes tried to find a way out. Those too close to the black powder bags were either dead due to the explosion or were on fire as they slowly perished.

The explosions also disoriented the survivors who were either hearing ringing in their ears due to the loud sounds of the explosions or had their vision temporarily blurred by the bright flashes of the explosions.

This was Mitsuki's plan from the start. For what they had done, he wasn't going to let any of the White Clothes get away with it alive. With death coming at them from both sides, their end would come both swiftly and painfully.

The Crimson Guard, Yellow Turbans and Sousou's officers soon caught up with their prey. With the White Clothes completely outmatched, it was no longer a fight. It was now just a slaughter. That was the day the canyon became known as the Canyon of Blood, all because of the blood that was left behind once the White Clothes were killed by Sou Gi's forces.

Baron and Sousou soon joined them as they dropped from the sky. Twirling her scythe, Sousou glared menacingly at the White Clothes. Blood splattered the ground as heads rolled when she got to them.

Unaware by the combatants below, Zangetsu stood atop the canyon wall to watch the battle. When Mitsuki had come to him to purchase those Lockseeds, Son Go's White Devil came to see what Sou Gi's Crimson Enforcer had wanted them for.

It was a truly brutal end for the White Clothes, but it wasn't Zangetsu's place to judge how Sou Gi dealt with invaders. This was how they did things here. Besides, he was used to the violence. They all were. Satisfied with what he saw, Zangetsu mounted his bike and zoomed away, trailing dust behind him as he headed to Son Go. Sonken would want to hear about this development.


Later, back in Sou Gi's capital, things were beginning to go back to normal. Whatever spell Ukitsu had cast on the city was broken and life soon returned to it.

In her throne room, Sousou sat upon her throne, proud as ever. In her hand was the Zhuqiao Lockseed. This was proof that her Armored War God Baron was indeed one of the warriors chosen to wield the power of the Sovereigns. He had accomplished this with his resolve and deserved to be rewarded.

"Baron, step forward," Sousou commanded and Mitsuki approached the throne. "You've done well. You saved Sou Gi and myself. For that I am grateful."

"Just doing my job, Karin," Mitsuki replied casually and Sousou nodded. Juniku was also grateful to Mitsuki, even if she didn't show it. He was a brute, and an absolute monster on the battlefield, but he would always be there for them when they needed him the most.

Kakoton and Kakoen also smiled at their beloved Crimson Enforcer. No matter what, he would never abandon them or Sou Gi. If any threat came upon their beloved kingdom, he would be there to destroy it.

Sousou addressed Mitsuki's new strategist who was kneeling before her, "So, you're Shibai. Baron has spoken highly of you. You do realize that pledging yourself to him is the same as pledging yourself to me. What's his is also mine, and that includes his subordinates."

Shibai silently nodded.

"But you did pledge your allegiance to him first, and since he did save me and my kingdom, he deserves a reward. Shibai, you now belong to Armored War God Baron. His orders to you are absolute," Sousou declared.

Juniku and Mitsuki were surprised as Shibai gratefully bowed her head.

"Thank you, Sousou-sama! I will serve Baron-sama loyally and faithfully," swore Shibai as she clasped her hands together.

Sousou accepted her vow, "See that you do. He is my sworn brother, after all."

"A gift for me, Little Loli? You shouldn't have," Mitsuki joked.

"Careful, Baron. I might just take it back," Sousou shot back playfully. Shibai was quite lovely and if Sousou wanted to, she could take her to bed with her.

She could, but she didn't. Shibai belonged to Mitsuki. Her strategic mind and beautiful body were all his to do with as he pleased.

"And Mitsuki, we need to discuss how you've been spending our war funds," Sousou smiled sweetly as she held a familiar invoice. It was for the Lockseeds Mitsuki had bought.

"I felt that it was a pretty good investment at the time," Mitsuki defended.

The reason why Mitsuki's army had been so well-equipped was because he had gone to Son Go and purchased the Lockseeds. While he refused to beg for help, it didn't mean he was opposed to making deals so that his Crimson Guard and Bravo's Yellow Turbans were well-armed. His pockets were lighter when he came back with the Lockseeds, but it was worth it. They could not afford to waste time and energy to harvest specific Lockseeds. It was more convenient to buy them straight from Son Go.

It had not been cheap.

Despite being allies, Masataka wasn't just going to lend Mitsuki the Lockvehicle Lockseeds for free. They weren't available for the public as they were used mainly for combat. Due to their exclusive nature, they were even more expensive than the standard Lockseeds used to summon Inves. Masataka was running a business after all. Still, despite how much Mitsuki had to spend, it was worth the price of saving Sou Gi.

"Due to the circumstances at the time, I can't fault you for making such a decision," Sousou sighed. "Next time, consult me whenever you want to make such an extravagant purchase."

"Hopefully, you won't be brainwashed or under mind control next time," Mitsuki countered.

Sousou smiled. Mitsuki made the right choice in purchasing the Lockseeds. With the Dandeliners, Tulip Hoppers and Suika Arms in their arsenal, Sousou was one step closer to realizing her ambition.

Mitsuki was thinking about his new power. How appropriate that he received the powers of the Vermillion Phoenix. He was now one step closer towards his goal to help Sousou realize her ambition. And if anything or anyone were to get in his way, they could all burn.


Shibai left Sousou's throne room together with Mitsuki. Sousou was impressed by the strategy they managed to come up with. Mitsuki even coined its name and dubbed it as the 'Checkmate Stratagem'.

"Looks like you're officially part of the Crimson Guard now, Shibai. Well done," congratulated Mitsuki.

"Sera," Shibai corrected.

"Excuse me?" Mitsuki responded.

"My true name is Sera, Baron-sama. Now that you are my lord, you have the right to call me by my true name," she informed him.

"Alright, Sera. Welcome to Team Baron. Now get some rest."

"Very well, Baron-sama."

After parting ways with Shibai so she could return to her quarters to rest, Mitsuki made his way towards Riten's workshop.

"Baron-sama," Riten bowed as she greeted her commander. He looked towards several crates that were filled with the SengokuDrivers and Matsubokkuri Lockseeds.

After the battle, the bodies of the White Clothes were gathered so that Baron could burn them. The bodies of his own men were given a proper burial out of respect for their sacrifice on the battlefield. He also had his men gather all the SengokuDrivers and the Lockseeds that littered the canyon. While most of them were damaged during the battle, there were a few that appeared still intact. There was also something else he managed to uncover from these blank SengokuDrivers. Besides the blank Rider Indicators, the belts that materialized were metallic silver instead of the yellow straps that secured the SengokuDrivers belonging to the Armored War Gods.

"How many still function?" Mitsuki asked.

"Well, as you can see, the ones that appear broken are in that crate. This crate contains the ones that still function," Riten informed him. He had the Crimson Guard test them out by placing the Drivers to their waists and watched as the belts materialized. This proved that these blank SengokuDrivers could be used by anyone like the GenesisDriver.

"Good, and the Lockseeds?" Baron asked.

"Unfortunately, most of them were damaged in the battle," Riten said regretfully.

"No matter. We can always get more Lockseeds from Son Go or Helheim Forest," said Mitsuki. He had plans for these SengokuDrivers. Oh yes, he had plans.


Saji was unhappy with the conclusion of their mission. Not only were they forced to retreat, but their army was decimated, they lost a comrade, and Baron had awakened one of the Sovereigns, the Vermillion Phoenix.

Ukitsu took note of this and asked, "What's wrong, Genpou-dono?"

"What's wrong? What's wrong!?" Saji angrily repeated. "Do you really have to ask!? You made us run away!"

Ukitsu explained, "We were clearly outmatched when Zangetsu-dono appeared, and once Baron-dono was able to summon the Celestial Armor, there was little we could do."

"Dammit! We had an army ready and Sousou as a figurehead! But no, we had to withdraw, and only because those Femme Fatales wanted us to!" Saji shot back.

"What they wanted was for the next Sovereign to be awakened. Zangetsu-dono and Baron-dono just gave us a good excuse to retreat. With the Black Turtle, White Tiger and Vermillion Phoenix awakened, all that is left is the Azure Dragon," Ukitsu explained.

The plan had succeeded. The Femme Fatales were one step closer towards awakening their lord. While it meant sacrificing members of the White Cloth Society, it was a small price to pay in order to achieve their goal.

"Now we need to find someone to fill in Saito's spot on the team," Saji grumbled.

"Don't worry, Genpou-dono. I already have a replacement in mind," Ukitsu smiled mysteriously.


Inside the Bloody Canyon, within the crater that Baron made, a piece of Black Baron's Red Banana Lockseed laid buried at the bottom. For a moment, a dark aura rose from it before it faded. Then, a chilling laugh was heard.

Was it the wind?

Who knows?


Fruits of the Tree, Yggdrasil

Jimber Lemon Arms (Baron Version): By combining the power of the A-Class Banana Lockseed and S-Class Lemon Energy Lockseed, Baron obtained this form. It is balanced like his Banana Arms, but all its stats are far superior. His physical power has been increased exponentially and his running speed is on par with Gaim's Ichigo Arms. However, jumping height has taken a hit due to the bulky armor. However, besides being able to wield his Banaspear, this Arms makes up for it in its special enhanced ability. Jimber Lemon grants Baron strength, allowing Baron to receive an extra boost in power. Because of this, it is the most suited for close combat among the Jimber Arms. The default weapon for the Arms, like the Matsubokkuri Energy Arms, is for once not the Sonic Arrow but instead a shield shaped like a round lemon slice called the Citron Buckler. While he receives significant boosts in his punching and kicking power, his speed and jumping height are decreased due to the bulky Jimber Lemon Arms.

Zhuqiao Arms: Formed using the Sovereign Zhuqiao Lockseed (S.L.S-ZHUQIAO), this new Arms is used exclusively by Baron. The primary Arms Weapon is the Suzakalibur. He is also armed with the Zhuqiao Talons that fold out from his gauntlets. Zhuqiao Arms comes equipped with wings that allow him to fly. Like the phoenix, he can control fire and possess the ability to heal and regenerate which had yet to be seen.

Red Banana Arms: Black Baron's signature Arms is summoned using a red version of the Banana Lockseed that is usually used by Mitsuki. In terms of appearance, the Arms is a red version of Baron's yellow Banana Arms. It also comes equipped with its own version of the Banaspear called the Black Banaspear. In terms of combat performance, it is a match for Baron's Lemon Energy Arms. This is likely due to it being infused with Rinki to increase Black Baron's combat prowess. However, this comes at a cost as Black Baron was transformed into a monster when he lost control of the Red Banana Lockseed's power.


KRC: Well, this was an intense arc to work on. Even though it was only three chapters, it was still fun to write. We get glimpses into Mitsuki's past which helped make him into the man he is today. We also see his ability to convince the bandits to follow him as their new leader. He gives them something back, the honor of being soldiers again and to fight for a cause instead of being bandits. He gave them a chance to redeem themselves. Sadly, Saito did not get the chance to redeem himself. Well, now that 3 out of 4 Sovereigns have awakened, that only leaves one more. Who is our lucky candidate set to inherit the spirit of the Azure Dragon?

There are two lessons here. One is to never give up. An underdog, while seemingly weak with no chance of winning, will obtain victory through perseverance. Mitsuki's life had not been easy, but he managed to get by since he never gave up.

A second lesson here is to not let your pride override logic. Mitsuki would probably still lose. Even if Saito did abide by the conditions of the duel, Duke and Sigurd would just attack and not care. Fortunately, Zangetsu was there to prevent the situation from getting worse as he protected Baron's army while he was busy fighting Saito.

Originally, Zangetsu wasn't even supposed to be in this chapter, but then I added him as a cameo, and now I added him actively participating. This is also a reference to Riders making a cameo in the Kamen Rider summer movies and special episodes. Like when Double appeared to help Decade, when OOO came to help Double, when Fourze showed up to aid OOO, and also when Wizard came to assist Fourze. Also when Gaim and Ghost appeared to help their predecessors. Zangetsu was just there because he was there and I wanted him there. Simple as that. Also, Sigurd and Duke wouldn't really care about the duel. They would use the chance to attack Baron's army while he was busy. It was a good thing Zangetsu was there to help and hold the two off while Baron and Black Baron fought.

OK, Mitsuki gaining Zhuqiao Arms was an obvious choice for me. He once donned OOO Arms and one of OOO's Super Forms is the Tajadol Combo which is based on a phoenix. Baron Zhuqiao Arms' two finishers were also based on OOO Tajadol Combo. Also, I was basing the Zhuqiao Arms on Sousou Gundam from BBW. Look up the anime. It's awesome.

There is a symbolic meaning to Mitsuki being the phoenix here as well. When he lost his family, he felt dead inside and was just going through the motions and tried to find a thrill to make himself feel alive. He found a purpose by joining Sousou and was spiritually invigorated as a result. Hence, like the phoenix, he rose from the ashes.

Anyway, Saito's transformation is quite similar to what happened to Alfred during Kamen Rider Gaim Gaiden: Kamen Rider Baron. He turned into an Overlord Inves. I just decided not to call him that in narrative, but he's obviously an Overlord, albeit a mindless one. It was also inspired by Kaito's transformation into Lord Baron.

I originally had Saito's transformation announcement being similar to Baron's. However, a friend of mine, Vanishing Raptor, helped me to come up with a new one. So, the Red Banana Arms' announcement is 'Spear of Blood', befitting the Arms' red color.

Some other things you may have noticed is that the Baron's army came equipped with Lockvehicles. It's not to the same degree of Son Go which organizes monthly raids into Helheim to gather Lockseeds, but enough to make sure they stand a chance against their enemies. There is also the fact that Suika Arms can function like Lockvehicles. This I learnt from the Gaim Movie. I mean, Bravo's soldiers were obviously piloting them like mechs and I decided to use that here.

This chapter had to go through a lot of revisions, and for good reason. The factor is that I had time before my partner can look at them, and I decided to make revisions as new ideas pop up. And this season has to be as good as perfect. Can't let the quality decline.

Also, you note I used the song "Never Surrender" which is Kamen Rider Baron's theme. If you read the English translation for the lyrics down here, you'll see that they fit with the chapter's theme and Mitsuki/Baron.

Every time you strike, my heart ignites and burns

Don't take just one step, as it'll only take you back

Those angry eyes turn me on

And I violently shake

I'm completely determined… look, I'm a winner!

Only those who always win

Have a reason to conquer this world

I won't let anyone through me,

I won't stand down to anyone

I'll believe it's mine

Until I've mastered the top

Everyone follow me, everyone bow down

Until the ultimate fruit is in your grasp, Never Surrender

Looking up at this building's reflection

I realize strength isn't enough

Hurry, step forward to tomorrow!

Those who've been deprived of everything

All you must do it take it back!

I can't rely on anyone, I can't let go

I can't let you run from me

Even if it ends up wounding me

Not everyone is my enemy, not everyone can reach

and become that one and only presence

Until that day, Never Surrender

Only those who always win

Have a reason to conquer this world

I won't let anyone through me,

I won't stand down to anyone

I'll believe it's mine

Until I've mastered the top

Everyone follow me, everyone bow down

Until the ultimate fruit is in your grasp, Never Surrender

One last thing: If you think this will be the last time we see Black Baron, then think again.

TFP: Whew. Things are really going all out. With so many plots and twists, can war really be that far behind? The Armored War Devils and RinJyuKen are making bigger and bolder moves in order to achieve their goals. This has to be the boldest one they thought of yet. Still, the Armored War Gods are up to the challenge with the Sovereign Lockseeds appearing to increase their own power in turn.

Still, it seems that the Armored War Devils are creating a cult to recruit soldiers and announcing themselves as True Armored War Gods. An army of fanatics is never a good thing since they will not be sensible like regular soldiers will be. Worse, they all are equipped with Kurokage Trooper equipment. If it comes to open war, it will not be an easy one, as if war is easy in the first place.

GKoh: About Mitsuki, Saito and Chitoge. Mitsuki met up with Saito. This would parallel with Mitsuki's ancestor, Mitsuhide allying with the Saito Clan. In a way but going deeper, we learn that Saito was abandoned by his father, holding resentment towards him and corporations. Now why does that sound familiar? That's because it sounded like one particular Saito, Saito Yoshitatsu the man who rebelled against his own father.

What's most intriguing was that both Mitsuhide and Mitsuki did not side with these individuals and instead went to the other. Mitsuhide remained loyal to Saito Dosan while Mitsuki met Chitoge Dosan.