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: OK, we left you guys with some pretty action-packed chapters. The Venom Fists, with the exception of Braco, have been destroyed. Unfortunately, Braco planned for them to die so that he could absorb their Dorinki. He sent them out to confront the Armored War Gods in order to wear our heroes out until he showed up. What an opportunistic and slimy snake. He also turns out to be a powerful opponent as he was able to single-handedly defeat the Armored War Gods.
The Shoku Warriors tried to fight him too, and while they managed to harm him with their newly blessed weapons, Braco was able to subdue them all with his venomous Dorinki. He could've done it before. In fact, he could've used his crippling venomous Dorinki at any time. He was just playing with them. Oh, and Chulainn/Ichiro got kicked in the dick a lot. Hopefully, there is no permanent damage there. I better not overdo it.
Anyway, in this chapter, we're shifting our focus back to our comatose protagonist of the AWG series. What else will we see in his dreams? Well, that's what we're here for. We're gonna find out.
Kada was in a deep meditative trance as he sat at Nagata's bedside. Brusa-sennin had told the young doctor that the Blue King's comrades were going to need him. That meant he needed to be awakened immediately.
Since he started treating Nagata, Kada discovered that Braco's True Poison was not a regular type of venom. It was a poisonous Ki that would corrupt and destroy a person's natural Ki, killing them instantly. A person could not live without Ki. It was part of their soul. It was part of their very being. Without Ki, nothing could live. Miraculously, some higher power had intervened and saved Nagata's life, preventing the poison from completely killing him. However, Nagata was left comatose as a result.
According to Iori, Braco's True Poison could also raise the dead, but if such a thing were true then it would be wonderful. Though he had his doubts that something called 'True Poison' would be anything good even if it could bring the dead back to life. Death was a part of the laws of nature and bringing the dead back to life was a violation of those laws. That didn't mean Kada needed to accept that absolutely. One could still fight to stay alive and as a doctor, his duty was to save lives.
Kada used his acupuncture technique to purify Nagata's Ki. For the most part, it seemed to be working. He managed to get rid of the poisonous Ki infecting Nagata. However, he wasn't recovering as fast as Kada would've hoped. He should've awakened, but he didn't.
Now it was time for Kada to use a technique he had been keeping as a last resort. It was only to be used in times of emergency and desperation. This certainly qualified.
"Kada-sensei, what are you doing?" Komei wondered as she witnessed Kada forming a set of hand seals. Much to her amazement, a golden aura began to radiate from his hands, growing brighter and stronger with each hand seal he made. He also chanted, repeatedly.
"Rin, Pyo, To, Sha, Kai, Chin, Retsu, Zai, Zen. Rin, Pyo, To, Sha, Kai, Chin, Retsu, Zai, Zen. Rin, Pyo, To, Sha, Kai, Chin, Retsu, Zai, Zen."
He chanted, over and over, repeating the same pattern of hand seals as he did so. Brusa-sennin had taught him this technique. He said it was a technique that could heal a person's mind, body, and soul. It required the aura of the person casting it to initiate the healing process and only to be used for dire emergencies. It required focus and concentration as even one small mistake could lead to dire consequences.
"Rin, Pyo, To, Sha, Kai, Chin, Retsu, Zai, Zen. Rin, Pyo, To, Sha, Kai, Chin, Retsu, Zai, Zen. Rin, Pyo, To, Sha, Kai, Chin, Retsu, Zai, Zen."
Bringing his hands up to Nagata, Kada placed them down upon his chest and the aura surrounded the comatose Blue King.
Brusa-sennin had taught Kada this technique. In order to revive someone, Kada would need to use his own Ki to 'jump start' their Ki. Right now, Nagata's Ki was dormant. In his current state, this was stopping him from regaining consciousness. In order to fully restore Nagata, Kada would need to offer his own Ki in the process.
"Wake up, baka-niichan," Chinkyuu whispered as she watched.
Due to past trauma, she didn't have a very good impression of Armored War Gods. From her experience, they were monsters who could kill without mercy. They were ruthless and could not be trusted. Baron seemed to support that fact.
She grew to fear them, to hate them, but over time there were individuals she learned to accept. For example, she accepted Kenshin and Hideyoshi. As long as she didn't see them in armor, she had nothing to fear. She accepted them as people, not as the armor they wore. She got used to their armored forms eventually too.
Then came Nagata Oda and he showed that he was incredibly powerful compared to the other Armored War Gods, and that frightened her. He could cause a lot of destruction with that kind of power and nothing could refute that. He was powerful and that scared her.
Even though he had saved Totaku and the others from Chojo and given them a new home, a part of her couldn't trust Nagata because he was an Armored War God, an absurdly powerful one that just seemed to get stronger. Ryofu seemed fond of him, which made things worse, as Chinkyuu believed he was trying to charm the redhead whom she loved like an older sister.
However, the more time they spent together, just hanging out with Ryofu's pets, Chinkyuu's opinion of him gradually changed. As a strategist, her job was to observe the enemy, analyze them, and come up with a plan to beat them. She had Nagata labeled as a possible enemy but that had changed a long time ago.
He wasn't strong because he was an Armored War God. He was strong because he held onto his ideals and sense of justice. He was strong because he was using his power to help others, to save them even if they didn't always show gratitude.
So, here she was, praying for him to wake up.
Ryofu, who vigilantly guarded Nagata, also prayed for him to wake up as well. While her strength would be an asset on the battlefield if she lent her aid to her comrades, she insisted that she stay and watch Nagata. After all, she had appointed herself as Nagata's personal bodyguard in gratitude for rescuing Totaku. She never left his side for anything until her shift was up. Even when it was time to switch with someone so she could rest, she would insist on keeping vigil.
Chinkyuu had never seen her big sister figure look so sad before. While Ryofu was not usually very expressive, Chinkyuu could tell that seeing Nagata like this depressed her. She missed seeing his smile, she missed talking to him, and she missed spending time with him.
"Wake up, baka-niichan. Ren-dono's waiting for you. She needs you. We need you. I need you. So please...wake up."
Suddenly, Nagata's body began to glow before a blinding flash of light completely enveloped the whole room.
Could this be the sign of a miracle?
Sangokuden Armored War Gods Saga: End of the Armored War Gods
Co-Written By: Ten-Faced Paladin and Kamen Rider Chrome
Beta Reader/Editor: Busterleader92
Chapter 7: A Spiritual Journey
It was a beautiful day in town and Nagata was sitting at a local cafe with all his friends, having a good time. They shared stories, laughing at all the funny bits while enjoying delicious cakes with refreshing tea. As Nagata took a sip of tea, he heard a voice in his head.
"This isn't real."
Nagata blinked and looked around for the source of the voice.
"What's wrong, Nagata-san?" Aisha asked.
"Did you girls hear that?" Nagata inquired.
"Hear what?" Touka responded, confused.
"I heard..." He paused. "Must be my ears playing tricks on me."
"Wake up."
Nagata's eyes widened as he shot out of his seat, alarmed. He heard the voice clearly now like it was being whispered directly into his ear, but there was nobody there.
"Nagata, are you OK?" Sui asked.
"You look like you've seen a ghost," added Sei.
"I..." Nagata started when he heard the voice again, repeating the same phrase.
"Wake up. Wake up. Wake up. Wake up. Wake up. Wake up."
"What is happening to me...?" Nagata covered his ears. Where was that voice coming from? What was going on?
"WAKE UP!"
He heard the sound of glass shattering before everything went dark.
Nagata's eyes shot open. Now he could see a canopy hanging above him. Feeling the ground under him, he discovered that he was lying down in a bed of grass. He stood up to take a better look at his surroundings.
He felt disoriented and confused. He panicked. Where was he!? Where had the cafe gone!? Where were the girls!?
"Huh? What? Where am I? Aisha! Touka! Rinrin! Where are you!?"
He blinked as the realization suddenly dawned on him.
"It was...a dream...It was all just a dream...Okaasan and Otousan...it was not real..."
None of it was real.
Tears welled up in his eyes in bitter realization. It hadn't been real. It had all just been a dream, a fantasy forged by his own desires.
After wiping away his tears, he scanned his surroundings to see where he was now. He finally recognized the trees, the strange plants, and the fog that surrounded him.
"...Helheim...? What am I doing here? How did I get here?" Nagata wondered as he looked around. Indeed, he was in the eerie foggy Forest of Helheim. All around him were alien plants while the Fruits of Helheim hung from vines wrapped around trees. Was this just another dream?
All of a sudden, he let out a cry of pain as he held his chest and head.
"Daijaho!"
BOOM!
"Argh!"
"Daijaho!"
BOOM!
"Argh!"
"Daijaho! Daijaho! Daijaho!"
BOOM! BOOM! BOOM!
"ARRRGGGGHHHHHH!"
Braco repeatedly blasted Gaim, causing him to yell painfully, each time he was hit. The last Daijaho blast managed to send him flying via a massive explosion.
Gaim crashed to the ground and he groaned in pain as his armor flashed and vanished, leaving him in his powerless civilian form. The Shoku Warriors watched in shock at how easily Braco had defeated their lord while he was in his strongest form. At the same time, the Seal of Heaven dropped to the ground, completely inert.
Braco went and picked Nagata up by his collar. The young man stared up at Braco, his entire body aching in pain. Braco simply grinned as he looked into the eyes of his defeated opponent.
"You were a worthy opponent, Gaim. However, in every duel, there is always a loser." Braco pointed one of his fangs at Nagata's chest. "Hiden Ringi. Madoku."
Nagata's eyes widened as the single fang pierced his chest. As soon as it pierced his skin, Nagata let out a bloodcurdling scream as he arched his back. He continued to scream in agony before the pain became too much for him and he went still in Braco's grasp.
"I'm...I'm dead?"
The grim realization finally dawned upon him. It was bound to happen. After all, he was fighting against monsters. Eventually, his luck would run out and one of his opponents would be the one to finally kill him. But why did the afterlife look like Helheim Forest? He understood that Helheim translated to 'Land of the Dead', but he did not expect that this would be where he would end up.
Suddenly, he was assaulted by another vision.
Gaim took aim as the DJ Gun gathered power and pulled the trigger, firing a powerful burst of energy at Jam.
[KACHIDOKI CHARGE!]
As the blast came close towards her, Jam countered it with two strikes of her Cutting Blade.
[DARKNESS AU LAIT!]
The DJ Gun's Kachidoki Charge blast smashed into a giant dark energy apple and exploded, with the resulting explosion consuming Jam. Gaim lowered his DJ Gun, putting his Kachidoki Lockseed back into his SengokuDriver. He thought he had won.
He was wrong.
Suddenly, Jam burst right out of the curtain of smoke and came right at him. Startled, he frantically leveled his DJ Gun at her but she was faster as she sliced his weapon in half.
In the blink of an eye, she had the tip of her Musou Saber pressed against his throat. Gaim froze, cold sweat rolling down his face as the seconds passed. Jam kept her position, her sword on his throat. She had complete control of the situation and the advantage.
She had won, and as the victor, she could do whatever she wanted to him.
Jam mocked, "The people call you a savior. Can you really save anyone when you're so weak?"
"...when you're so weak."
"...you're so weak."
"...so weak."
"...weak."
Of course. It made sense now. The reason he was here, the reason he was dead was that he'd been too weak. Braco had defeated him because he was weak. Just too weak to do anything.
He sensed a presence and turned around to see a figure standing before him. He stepped back in fright.
"Who are you?" he asked.
The figure was petite and wore a blood red cloak with the hood up to conceal their features. He really wasn't focused on the figure's appearance. His eyes were glued to the big red scythe the figure was holding. It was massive as it dwarfed the figure in height. The huge curved blade was just frightening to look at.
He knew enough mythology to guess who this was. While the figure didn't have a place in Eastern mythology or religion, Nagata knew enough about Western mythology to put a name to the figure.
"Are you Death? Are you The Grim Reaper?" Nagata asked. The figure did not respond. He didn't need any confirmation. Just seeing the cloaked and hooded figure told him all he needed to know. "So, I really am dead."
This was all the confirmation he needed. He was in a place where souls waited before they were taken to their final resting place. He could either go to Heaven or Hell. He just hoped it was the former.
"You're not dead."
Nagata blinked and turned around to find Chosen leaning against a tree with his arms crossed. The strange man with pigtails was in his usual pink clothes, much to Nagata's relief.
"Chosen..." Nagata identified as Chosen walked over to him.
"You're not dead, Nagata Oda," Chosen repeated reassuringly before adding, "At least, not yet but you are hanging by a thread at this very moment."
"Is that why he's here?" Nagata asked as he pointed at the 'Grim Reaper'.
"She's just an observer right now," Chosen answered.
"Death is a girl?" Nagata's eyes widened in surprise as he turned back to examine the 'Grim Reaper'. He realized that she was a head shorter than he was. For a personification of death, this was not what he was expecting. Perhaps that American comic company Marvel was actually on to something.
"Don't you have more important things to worry about?" Chosen asked.
"Like what?" Nagata asked back.
"Well, you need to help your comrades," Chosen answered.
"What do you mean? What's happening?" Nagata demanded.
"While you were busy dreaming, your comrades have been preparing for war. Right now, they're fighting against Braco's forces. The good news is that they've managed to ask for aid from the other Armored War Gods. The bad news is that they're losing," Chosen explained.
Waving his hand, the air shimmered in front of Nagata to create a sort of makeshift screen. On the screen, he could see a great battle taking place. He witnessed as Baron, Zangetsu, Gridon, Chulainn and Knuckle came to their aid. He also witnessed as the Armored War Gods confronted Kademu, Sorisa, Maga and Moriya as they came with an army before defeating them. The scene soon changed to another battle as he saw the Shoku Warriors battle against an army of Rinshi. When the tide turned against them, even with the barbarians coming to aid them, the Armored War Gods came and obliterated the RinJyuKen army.
And then Braco appeared. Nagata saw as the Armored War Gods were no match for him. He watched as they fell to Braco's power.
Nagata's eyes widened in alarm. His friends were in trouble. But what could he do when he was stuck here? What could he do for them when, as Chosen claimed, he was stuck between life and death?
"You need to send me back, Chosen!" Nagata pleaded desperately.
"I can't," Chosen answered.
"Why the hell not!?"
"Because you're not ready yet. You still have some unfinished business."
"What unfinished business!?"
The Red Reaper raised her scythe and slashed the air. This caused a Helheim portal to open right in front of Nagata. Instead of a door, it functioned as a window and Nagata's eyes widened at a familiar and horrific sight.
It was the fire that destroyed Rakuyo.
He could only watch helplessly as the blaze took the lives of the innocent people trapped inside. That memory was one he would rather forget but couldn't. It was the memory of one of his greatest failures. Even when he tried to forget about it, his nightmares would remind him of the day he failed so miserably. They may have won the war against Chojo, but innocent people still suffered and died. People he could've saved if he hadn't pushed her into a corner.
"Why are you showing me this?" Nagata asked the Red Reaper, but she only answered by pointing back at the portal. Nagata looked and his eyes widened as the flames burst out of the portal. He screamed as he shielded himself with his arms and closed his eyes while the flames engulfed him. However, he didn't feel like he was being burnt alive at all. In fact, when he opened his eyes, he found himself standing right in the middle of the burning city of Rakuyo. He saw the bodies lying around him and could only grimace.
He heard pleas for help as people tried to flee from the flames. There were smoke and fire everywhere. People began to collapse as they inhaled too much smoke. He saw a mother cradling her child's dead body. He saw children trying to get their parents to wake up. He heard the cry of babies who were dying around him.
Then he saw the bodies of people he recognized sprawled all around him.
His eyes widened further in shock.
They were his friends.
Kanu was on her back with Chouhi draped lifelessly over her. Nearby lay Ryuubi as she was reaching for her two sworn sisters.
He spotted Bacho who was impaled by her own yari with Chou'un being crushed under the rubble.
Komei, Ryofu, Chinkyuu...
Totaku, Kaku, Gien, Batai...
Iori, Riri, Kochu...
Even Karasu...
They all lay dead around him.
"No...No...No..." Nagata shook his head in denial. This was his biggest regret and worse nightmare all rolled into one. He could not save them and they died because of his weakness.
He couldn't move, he couldn't close his eyes, and he couldn't say a word. He could only watch as the entire tragedy played out in front of him.
This was Hell for Nagata.
He felt absolutely powerless, and that was when he saw a figure approach him. It was being bathed in the light of the flames as it walked towards him from the direction of the Imperial Palace. As it came closer, Nagata recognized the figure's shape.
It was Gaim, clad completely in black armor over a matching Ride Wear suit, with the Musou Saber held against his shoulder. The visor of this Black Gaim, this Kuro-no-Gaim, was yellow as he stared coldly at Nagata.
"What...what's going on...?" Nagata trembled at the sight of Kuro-no-Gaim.
This was like the nightmare he had a long time ago.
Chosen and the Red Reaper stood behind Nagata, watching.
"Looks like she's saying there's something you need to face," Chosen advised.
"So I'm supposed to fight him," Nagata concluded as he narrowed his eyes. "Very well then." He reached for his SengokuDriver, only to find it missing. "Huh, where's my belt?" He checked his pockets to find that his Lockseeds were missing as well. He then looked up and saw Kuro-no-Gaim coming right at him.
"Shit!" Nagata cursed as Kuro-no-Gaim swung at him. He ducked under the swipe and turned on his heels as he panted.
Nagata was far from helpless without his armor, but without his ability to transform into his Rider form, he was forced to rely on his own wits and skill. Fortunately, he still carried his swords in this realm. Unfortunately, he was still no match for Kuro-no-Gaim who was obviously stronger than him as the armor boosted his physical power to superhuman levels.
His twin katanas released sparks as they clashed against Kuro-no-Gaim's Musou Saber. His dark reflection parried the swords and knocked Nagata away before sending him tumbling with a kick.
Nagata groaned as Chosen continued to watch with the Red Reaper. They weren't going to help since this was his challenge to overcome.
Nagata rose to his feet and slashed at Kuro-no-Gaim, but his armored foe just took the blow without flinching. Kuro-no-Gaim retaliated with a swing, breaking his swords in half. Nagata gulped as he looked at his broken swords and saw Kuro-no-Gaim ready to land the killing blow. He aimed for Nagata's neck, but he quickly ducked. He took several steps back as Kuro-no-Gaim gazed at him.
"How am I supposed to beat this thing?" Nagata questioned.
"First, you mustn't give up. Second, you need to realize what he is," Chosen advised him.
"I mustn't give up," Nagata repeated to himself as he dropped his now useless, broken swords. "I need to realize what he is."
"Now think. What is he supposed to be? You can sense it, can't you?"
Nagata tried to think of the answer while trying to keep himself alive. He closed his eyes as Kuro-no-Gaim approached him.
Ever since they started fighting, Kuro-no-Gaim invoked a certain emotion in him. He even stepped out of Rakuyo's fire and it did nothing...
...did nothing...
Nagata gasped as he opened his eyes in realization. Kuro-no-Gaim was right in front of him and had his sword raise over his head. He brought it down on Nagata's head to slice him in half, but the young man quickly raised his hands and clapped them, catching the sword's blade between his palms. Kuro-no-Gaim tried to pry his Musou Saber away but Nagata held a firm grip on it.
"I..." Nagata struggled as he heard the voices of his friends.
"Don't give up!"
"I..."
"Don't give up!"
"I...!"
"Don't give up!"
"I WON'T GIVE UP!"
Suddenly, Nagata emitted a bright light from his body which repelled Kuro-no-Gaim, blasting him away. Not only that but the darkness surrounding him cleared away to reveal clear blue skies and the shining sun. The fire and smoke were also being put out by whatever energy Nagata was releasing.
"There are still people I want to protect! That's why I won't give up! I am...A KAMEN RIDER!"
The black Rider was forced to shield his eyes from the radiant light surrounding Nagata grew brighter and brighter. Within the light, Nagata's SengokuDriver materialized on his waist, containing the Orange Lockseed in its open state. His blue Ride Wear suit materialized before his armor finally formed over him.
When the light faded, Nagata was revealed in his Rider form. But something was different about his armor, though. His Orange Arms and Ride Wear suit appeared to be shinier as they sparkled with the armor now trimmed in gold. His mouthplate was also a sparkling golden color in the space between the 'upper jaw' and 'chin'.
This was Gaim's Sparkling Orange Arms.
Kuro-no-Gaim recovered as he gripped his Musou Saber. He summoned his Black Daidaimaru and charged at Gaim. Gaim summoned his weapons in a splash of sparkling orange juice-a pair of matching Daidaimaru and quickly parried both of Kuro-no-Gaim's swords as sparks flew on impact. He pushed the offending swords away before he slashed Kuro-no-Gaim repeatedly in the chest. Kuro-no-Gaim staggered back from the slashes before he received a kick to the chest that sent him flying. He slammed into a wall which collapsed on top of him.
Gaim watched as Kuro-no-Gaim rose out of the rubble before his dark doppelganger charged towards him. He waited for his opponent and sidestepped a slash before he smacked Kuro-no-Gaim's right wrist with the flat side of his blade, causing him to release his Musou Saber. Gaim kicked the sword away before he jumped back from the Black Daidaimaru.
[SOIYA! ORANGE SQUASH!]
The Black Daidaimaru charged with dark energy as Kuro-no-Gaim dashed towards Gaim, but he stood his ground as he waited. Anticipating the strike, he dropped his swords and ducked before he punched Kuro-no-Gaim in the chest. Kuro-no-Gaim doubled over as Gaim knocked the wind out of him, his Black Daidaimaru dropping from his hand before he dropped to his knees.
Gaim stood victoriously over Kuro-no-Gaim. He picked up the Black Daidaimaru as Kuro-no-Gaim looked up at him before he lowered his head in resignation. He was offering himself to be executed. However, Gaim had a different idea in mind. He knelt down in front of Kuro-no-Gaim as his Sparkling Orange Arms armor vanished along with his Ride Wear suit. He stared kindly into Kuro-no-Gaim's visor before he threw his arms around him in an embrace as he accepted his dark counterpart.
"I understand..." Nagata whispered gently. "You're everything I've tried to keep hidden. You're my fear and regret, aren't you?" In response, Kuro-no-Gaim lost his physical shape and dissolved into black smoke that entered Nagata's body.
"I am thou...and thou art I..."
Chosen and the Red Reaper both smiled in approval at the sight of this. Rakuyo suddenly vanished around Nagata and he found himself standing in an endless white void with a white floor and infinite space. He wasn't alone, though. Chosen was still with him.
"So, you've finally embraced what happened," Chosen assumed.
"Yeah, I have. We won but I didn't consider it much of a victory. The cost was too high. That was why I couldn't accept what happened and it haunted me ever since," Nagata confessed.
The empty void didn't remain empty for long. A series of screens, connected like a movie reel, appeared and Nagata found himself looking at them. These were more of his memories.
He was seeing everything he had experienced since coming to the world of the Three Kingdoms and even before then.
Nagata recognized a particular scene. It was a scene that took place many years ago. He was at a picnic with his biological parents. He was only a young child back then.
He watched as his child-self was resting his head in his mother's lap as she told him a story.
"And so the Knight and Princess rode towards the sunset, living happily ever after," Ruby finished. "The End."
"I love stories like that, Okaasan," smiled little Nagata. "The heroes always get a happy ending."
Ruby smiled as she gently stroked her son's hair. She looked up at her husband who smiled at the scene. He took out his camera and took a picture. He wanted to save it for posterity.
"Tell me another, Okaasan," Nagata requested.
"How about the samurai who fought against an evil witch to save his village?" Ruby suggested.
"OK!"
His mother always told him stories when he was a child. His favorite stories were about heroes who fought against evil villains, impossible odds and always saved the day. They conquered every challenge they faced and would be victorious. No evil could stand in their way and they would always live happily ever after.
Of course, the reality was that a happy ending was not always guaranteed. He had to learn that himself, tragically. Even when won, there were times it was a pyrrhic victory that was not worth celebrating.
Another scene was being shown. It was an early memory when he was a child. He remembered that this took place after the accident that took his parents' life. He was adopted by his aunt and uncle whom he called 'Mom' and 'Dad' since that day. Back then, he had yet to regain his memories of his biological parents and still believed that his aunt and uncle were the only set of parents he ever had.
"Hey, Nagata. Come on, I've got a story I want to read to you," called Yang.
8-year-old Nagata looked up at his mother as he was playing with his action figures.
"OK, Mom."
Yang sat down on the couch as Nagata climbed on. Picking up her son, she sat him on her lap before opening a novel.
"This is a book written by your Aunt Ruby," Yang told him. "It's called 'Remnant: The Legend of the Silver-Eyed Huntress'."
"Awesome title." Nagata's eyes widened in amazement. Yang smiled.
"Yeah, it is an awesome title. Alright, let's begin." Yang cleared her throat before she read the first passage, "'Legends. Stories scattered through time. Mankind has grown quite fond of recounting the exploits of heroes and villains, forgetting so easily that we are remnants, byproducts, of a forgotten past.'"
The scene changed as he saw himself sitting in Yang's lap as they watched TV together. That was the first taste of Kamen Rider that he got. He sat on her lap, watching the action, but at the same time, he also watched the struggles of the heroes while learning about their resolve. Each Rider had a different thing they were fighting for. They each had a purpose that motivated them and defined them.
Kuuga fought to protect the smiles of the people around him.
Ryuki fought to protect people from the Mirror Monsters and to stop the Rider War.
Faiz fought to protect the dreams of others even when he didn't have his own dream.
Decade fought to find the place where he belonged.
OOO fought to redeem himself while reaching his hand out to help others.
Fourze fought in the name of friendship.
And Wizard fought for the sake of hope.
Those were just some examples of what Riders fought for. They fought for what they believed in, even if they were mocked for it. Even when their resolve was challenged, they always rose back up and became stronger for it.
"Those stories set the foundation for you, didn't they?" Chosen asked.
"Yes, they did," Nagata confirmed.
The memories continued to play out in front of him. They showed all of his adventures, starting with his first meeting with Kanu. He saw all the friends he made and everything he had done up until now. Every battle he had been in was shown in vivid detail. He also saw the memory of when he wrote the final letter to his parents, of the decision he made that changed his life forever.
Nagata blushed brightly as a very vivid memory was shown.
"Don't look at that!" Nagata shouted as Chosen was admiring the memory.
"Oh, why not? It just shows how passionate you are towards your lover," Chosen teased.
"It's private! My memories aren't a cheap peep show!" Nagata snapped in irritation with an embarrassed flush on his face.
"Fine, fine." Chosen snapped his fingers and that particular memory stopped playing before it vanished.
Nagata saw a memory that still affected him greatly. It was early on during his travels with Kanu, Chouhi, and Chou'un. Bandits had attacked their campsite and they defended themselves. One of the bandits tried to attack Kanu and Nagata had...
He had stabbed and killed a man.
That was the first time he had killed a man.
"I never meant to kill him," Nagata murmured.
"You did it to protect a friend," Chosen replied. "Nobody can fault you for that."
"I know. Aisha was in danger and I just reacted. It's just...I never ever thought that I would kill a man."
"You must've known that she had killed bandits before," Chosen stated.
"I know, but I just never thought about it," Nagata argued.
They watched what happened next. It was after the bandits were dealt with. Nagata watched as his past-self was kneeling by a river. He was in shock and trying to wash the blood off his hands, desperate to get it off. However, no matter how much he washed his hands, he could still feel the blood on them.
It was strange to see it from a third person perspective.
Nagata watched as Kanu approached his past self with his cooking knife and knelt down next to him. She held the knife in the water, washing off the blood that stained it.
He also remembered the talk they had.
"I killed a man," Nagata spoke, trying to process what had happened.
"You only did it to save me," Kanu replied, hoping her words brought him some measure of comfort.
"I know, but it still doesn't make it any easier to deal with. Killing a person is different from killing a monster."
There was silence between them for a moment before one of them decided to speak again.
"Aisha, you've killed bandits before," he stated.
"Yes," she answered.
"How do you deal with it?"
Kanu admitted, "The first time shook me to the core. I had blood on my hands. However, I realized something. When I kill, I don't do it for the sake of killing. And I don't do it for pleasure either. When I kill bandits, I do it to protect the innocent and to make sure no more people in the future will be threatened again."
"Does it get any easier?" Nagata asked.
"You just get used to it," Kanu answered.
Nagata paused, deep in thought. He was in a whole different era now. Things were done differently here and he just needed to adapt.
He needed to adapt to this and move forward.
He needed to accept it.
It was all he could do in order not to break down.
He spoke resolutely, "I'm going to be here for a while. This won't be the last time I'll be forced to kill someone."
"I'm sorry it had to happen this way," Kanu apologized as she hugged him.
Nagata hugged back. "I know, but it had to happen eventually."
"Thank you for saving me," she told him gratefully.
"I'm...I'm glad I did. Could you stay with me for a bit, like this?"
"Of course, Gaim-sama. Whenever you need me, I'll be by your side," she vowed.
After the first time he had killed, he had trouble sleeping peacefully. It just wasn't easy, knowing that he had taken a life. Eventually, like Kanu said when he confided in her, he got used to it. Since then, Nagata has taken his sword up against monsters and bandits alike. The incident had traumatized him, but he gradually got over it.
He learned something important, something that would forever be part of him. To protect someone, you may need to kill someone else when there was no other option.
Kanu was right. He got used to it, and now his hands were stained with blood. While he wasn't proud of killing, and would still regret it, he didn't regret the reason why he killed bandits. He did it to protect people and he accepted the responsibility. He was a warrior now, and protecting the innocent was a good enough reason to kill.
"You know, I would've been worried if you had enjoyed killing. That would've raised a few warning flags for me," said a new, yet familiar, voice. "I don't know what I would do if you turned into a homicidal psychopath."
The next newcomer to this dream realm was a young woman clad in a black kimono top with a matching mini skirt. Around her waist was a purple obi sash. She also wore bracers on her arms and shin guard. A pair of black tabi socks covered her feet which were in a pair of sandals. A long scabbard hung from her left hip with a sword sheathed in it.
Nagata blinked and his eyes widened in recognition as he realized who this woman was.
"Tenmaru-sensei!?" Nagata exclaimed, instantly recognizing his History teacher.
"How do I look, Nagata-kun?" Ran Tenmaru asked, referring to her outfit. She gave him a twirl, revealing that she wore a pair of white shorts under her skirt as it flipped up. "I rock this outfit, huh? I really do love cosplay. It's the only time I get to be myself." Her long hair, which he usually saw being worn in a bun, was now hanging down in a high ponytail.
"What do you mean 'be yourself'?" Nagata asked.
"Mori Ranmaru," Ran answered. "Recognize that name?"
"You're...!"
"I remember serving Oyakata-sama until the day he died. I also remember being reborn so many times but still retaining the same memories. It's funny, really. Am I immortal, eternally young, or just lucky to be born over and over with my old memories intact? It just blends together after a few hundred years."
"This...this really is some crazy dream. I'm dreaming about my History teacher..." mumbled Nagata.
"It's not like you haven't dreamt of me, once or twice," Ranmaru teased. She looked upon the tender scene. "Isn't that the most romantic thing you've ever seen?"
"The seeds of love were planted in that moment," Chosen agreed. He addressed Nagata with a teasing tone and a mirthful smile, "You wanted to kiss her then, didn't you?"
Nagata blushed in response as he sputtered out a denial, "N-no I didn't!"
"Such a shame. It was the perfect moment. The two of you were alone, you were vulnerable, you were bonding, and you had a nice setting. It was the perfect moment for a kiss," Ranmaru pointed out. "A bit of a wasted opportunity if you ask me."
"He did get to kiss her, eventually," Chosen told her.
"Yeah, but it would've been nicer if the kiss happened here," Ranmaru pointed.
Nagata didn't voice out an agreement, but he had to admit that Chosen and Ranmaru made some good points. It did seem like the perfect setup for a first kiss, but he was still recovering from his first kill and really wasn't in the mood for romance.
"Are you both seriously discussing first kiss settings?" Nagata asked in disbelief.
"Sorry, it's just that it is rare for me to see the descendant of Oyakata-sama score with such a lovely young lady when you've failed several times in the past," said Ranmaru.
"You were spying on me?" Nagata asked, aghast.
"Observing," Ranmaru corrected. "Anyway, your first kill always defines what kind of person you are. The act of killing is actually pretty easy. It's the aftermath and dealing with the fact that's hard. Seeing how you reacted after that, I can safely say you still have a good heart. Just like Oyakata-sama."
"You mean Oda Nobunaga," scowled Nagata.
"I know you're not Oyakata-sama," Ranmaru said, smiling sadly. "He's gone while I remain, watching over his descendants. But I do see some of his spirit in you. Oyakata-sama was indeed a kind man, but he could be just as ruthless as well. He had to be. He could not afford to look weak. His enemies would attack if they thought he was weak. Of course, only those closest to him would know about his kind heart. He was also willing to make himself into the enemy of all the lords. His dream was to unite Japan and stop the Warring States Era. The land would've been united, either against him or under his rule. Either way, his dream would've been a reality."
"So his dream came first before his own life?" Nagata asked.
"He was always a stubborn man. Nobody could sway him from his dream. He was also very unique. He appreciated the knowledge that came from the west when many lords just saw foreign things as dangerous or something that could destroy their way of life. However, Oyakata-sama embraced foreign ideas. Firearms became the norm in Oyakata-sama's army, and while the guns could only fire once before reloading, he was able to utilize them successfully. He was a visionary, a man who instilled fear because his ideas were seen as insane. But to me, he was my most beloved master."
"And what about me?" Nagata asked.
Ranmaru answered, "You're my student, but I see a fire burning inside you. A passion for justice. The same passion that Oyakata-sama put in his ambition. Your dreams for peace are not weak, Nagata-kun. They can come true. It all depends on what you can do to make them come true."
"I won't treat my comrades as pawns or my soldiers as disposable cannon fodder," Nagata told her seriously. "I won't treat the people closest to me as disposable tools once their usefulness has ended."
"Then don't. Treat them as you've always treated them. They already follow you without a moment's hesitation. Only a great person can inspire that kind of loyalty, but I think you have the potential to be something greater than you are now."
"And all it took was for me to be dimensionally displaced," Nagata quipped.
"Not many people get the chance like this. The fact that you survived for so long shows that you're strong because you managed to adapt. Yet you adapted without compromising your kindness," Ranmaru said.
"I've killed people. How can you call that being 'kind'?" Nagata shot back.
"The people you killed would've harmed innocent people. How is allowing that to happen be considered 'kind'?" Ranmaru rebutted. "Sometimes being kind to the innocent means being equally cruel to the guilty. You can't have one without the other. Even the desire to save people, to protect people, is just another way of wishing for people to be in danger so you could be there to save them. Nothing is ever black and white. Good and evil are not absolutes, and while Oyakata-sama may have been seen as an evil Maou, his desire to unite the land was pure and sincere. A true leader doesn't always do what's best for himself. He does what he thinks is best for his people."
"So I have to pick and choose who I can save? I can't just save everyone?" Nagata asked.
"Do you think you can?" Ranmaru challenged.
"I know I can try."
"It won't be easy."
"So what? Doesn't mean I have to stop trying."
A sudden flash of golden light forced Nagata to shield his eyes. When he opened them to see the source, he found himself looking at a familiar sacred artifact. He easily recognized the golden dragon statue floating in front of him. Chojo had used it to gain power.
"Is that the Seal of Heaven?" Nagata asked, pointing at the statue.
"Yes and no," Chosen answered cryptically.
Nagata deadpanned, annoyed, "Don't you ever get tired of being so cryptic?"
Ignoring the deadpan comment, Chosen elaborated, "Before Braco struck you down, the Seal of Heaven was in the process of granting you its power. That is what saved your life. What you are seeing right now is the power that currently sleeps within you, the power you would've awakened if he had not interrupted."
"So, what am I supposed to do? Just reach out and touch it?" Nagata asked as he curiously reached out for the Seal of Heaven. Suddenly, it released a blinding light and Nagata was shoved backward by an invisible force, his feet sliding across the white floor.
"It would appear that the Seal of Heaven wishes to test your resolve," Chosen observed.
"Of course it does," Nagata muttered sarcastically. When had anything so profound been that easy? He approached the Seal of Heaven again and glared at the artifact as it seemed to stare right back at him with its eyes.
"Perhaps the Seal of Heaven sensed potential inside of you. Gridon, Baron, and Zangetsu were chosen by the Seal of Heaven and were able to awaken great power because they managed to achieve a great resolution of heart," Chosen explained.
"A great resolution of heart, huh?" Nagata considered Chosen's words. Did he truly deserve this power?
"I sense doubt within you," Chosen observed.
Nagata responded, "This is an honor but I don't deserve it. The Genesis Riders attacked the innocent and left Chinkyuu scarred for life. Where was I when that happened? When Rakuyo was burnt to the ground, I was unable to save anyone."
The mysterious Chosen asked, "Did you not avenge those people?"
"I did, but I wish they hadn't perished in the first place," Nagata answered.
All this time, Nagata had to endure the guilt of failing to save Rakuyo and its people. That guilt had burdened him since but he carried it with him all the same. Could he really find the strength to prevent such a tragedy from taking place again? His friends believed he could. They had faith in him, despite what happened back in Rakuyo.
"Sometimes tragedy happens. It's up to us to decide what happens next," Chosen replied.
"Do you really think I can do it?" Nagata asked as he considered Chosen's words.
The Red Reaper made her presence known as she appeared.
This time she spoke as she gave him advice, "You can't change the past. What you can do is learn from it and move forward. You will always lose something important in your life, and make mistakes, but life goes on and so must you. Acknowledge your weaknesses and learn to overcome them. That way you can become stronger."
"Acknowledge my weaknesses," Nagata repeated. "Overcome them, and become stronger."
Why did this Red Reaper seem so familiar to him? Ever since he met her, there seemed to be some kind of link between them. He felt it then and he felt it now. Just who was she?
"Who are you?" he asked.
She responded with a cute childish giggle.
"That is a secret~" she said as she pressed her index finger against her lips.
Nagata had a feeling she could get along with Chou'un.
"But try to guess anyway," she challenged playfully.
Okay, now he knew there was something familiar about her.
Chosen asked, "Why did you want to become a hero in the first place?"
Nagata answered without missing a beat, "I was inspired by them and the stories told by my mother. I wanted to be just like them. I wanted to be able to protect and save people so they wouldn't suffer losses like I have. I can't just stand by and do nothing when someone needs help. But I've only done the opposite. I've led good men to their deaths because they chose to follow me. I've let thousands die because I was too late to save them. How many have died under my command alone?"
It was sincere, with no trace of deception, straight from the heart of an honest soul.
How many graves had he filled? How much blood was on his hands? How many families mourned when their sons, brothers, and fathers did not return from war?
Chosen replied, "Those men followed you because they were inspired by you. Just like you, they fought in the name of peace so that their families could live in a world without conflict. Like you, they were willing to risk their lives. You're making it sound like their deaths didn't mean something. You're making it out as if their deaths were in vain. As for the ones who died in Rakuyo, it was a tragedy. It shouldn't have happened, but it did, and you truly understood the path you've chosen. You've already confronted with the manifestation of your guilt and shame. What have you learned from it?"
What had he learned? After being forced to confront the manifestation of his greatest regret, he learned to accept it. Perhaps he could forgive himself now. Perhaps he could move on.
"I've learned something important. I realize why I held onto that memory. It wasn't just out of guilt. I needed to come to terms with it. This memory is a reminder of not just one of my biggest failures, but also to remind me of what is important. It's to remind me of my duty! I'm a Kamen Rider and my mission is to save people!" Nagata declared.
Steeling his resolve, Nagata looked back at the Seal of Heaven and reached out for it again. The Seal of Heaven unleashed a powerful aura that attempted to push Nagata back. However, he resisted it as he forced his body to move forward. He reached out to the Seal of Heaven, despite the power pushing him back. As his fingertips touched the Seal of Heaven, he was flung back by the aura again.
Nagata tried again and stood up, bracing himself this time. He dug his heels into the ground as he dragged himself closer and closer towards his goal.
"I can't give up! I won't give up!" shouted Nagata as he reached out to the Seal of Heaven, fighting against the aura that tried to push him back. He recalled the time he was separated from Kanu and the others and how much he wanted to return to them. He remembered how incomplete his life felt without them.
"I came back for them and gave up my chance to return to my world for them!" He had sacrificed any chance of going home to modern Tokyo and had no regrets, only a strong resolve.
"I will return to them again!"
As the Seal of Heaven threatened to push him back again, he felt a firm hand on his right shoulder, supporting him. Surprised by the contact, he turned his head to see Kanu smiling at him with a determined gaze.
"Aisha...?"
"Don't give up, Nagata-sama."
Nagata felt someone touching his hand and looked down to see Chouhi beaming at him brightly.
"Onii-chan! You can do it!"
"Rinrin...?"
He felt another hand on his left shoulder and turned his head to see Ryuubi smiling confidently at him.
"We believe in you, Nagata-sama."
"Touka...?"
He soon felt more hands on his arms and he saw the friends he had made since his time here. Chou'un smiled teasingly at him, Bacho and Batai grinned confidently at him, Kochu and Iori both gave him nods of approval. Even Ryofu was giving him a small smile. More and more people emerged and gave him words of encouragements.
"You can do it, Nagata-sama!"
"Don't surrender!"
"We're with you!"
He had come so far since his days as a normal high schooler. He wasn't just a boy anymore and was more than just a man. He was a king. He was a protector.
He was a Kamen Rider. An Armored War God!
"This is for them...they're the reason why...THEY'RE THE REASON WHY I WON'T GIVE UP!" Nagata roared as he finally grasped the golden Seal of Heaven and held onto it tightly. The Seal of Heaven's aura gave him one last push, more intense than before, but he hung onto the statue with all his might as he grasped it with his other hand too. He was not alone, as everyone who was with him in spirit was helping him hold on.
"I AM ARMORED WAR GOD GAIM! WE ARE THE SHOKU WARRIORS! WE ARE THE ONES WHO PROTECT THE INNOCENT! AND THIS IS OUR STAGE NOW!"
Finally, the Seal of Heaven's aura calmed down before it vanished.
"You did it, Nagata-kun," smiled Ranmaru.
Suddenly, Nagata had a vision of a supreme warrior. He was clad in a majestic blue coat and wielding a magnificent blade. Surrounding him was the brilliant aura of a Heavenly Dragon.
"What...what was that?" Nagata whispered after he saw the vision.
Chosen spoke wisely, "It is true that these atrocities should not have happened. You feel regret over the lives you fail to save. It's perfectly natural to feel this way. However, you do not allow that to stop you. Instead of allowing them to become a burden to your heart, you use these memories to become stronger so they may never happen again. In the face of adversity, in the face of failure, you did not give up. Rather, these failures push you to become stronger and move forward.
"These are indeed dark times, but those who rise against cruelty and oppression possess a light of radiance in their soul. Your radiance shines the brightest, brighter than anyone I have ever seen. It is this radiance that draws others to you so you are never alone. Perhaps this is what the Seal of Heaven sensed within you. Congratulation, Nagata Oda. You've proven your worth. You've earned this gift."
"Gift?" Nagata asked. He looked at the hand which he had used to grab the Seal of Heaven. He could feel that there was something in it.
He opened up his hand to reveal a small device that resembled a Lockseed. The device's gold body was shaped like a dragon's head with a colored circle decorating it and attached with a U-shaped handle. In the center of the larger circle was a smaller orange circle and marked with the ID code S.L.S.-QINGLONG on it. The outer circle was cut into six sections with each section colored red, blue, green, yellow, indigo and violet. These were the seven colors of the rainbow. The device actually fit in the palm of his hand and had a switch on it.
"Congratulations."
Nagata looked up when he heard that and saw four familiar women standing in front of him. The Red Reaper was standing beside his adoptive mother Yang, and standing with them were Blake Kurogami and Weiss Yukihime. They were close friends of his parents and his godmothers. When the Red Reaper lowered her hood, revealing her face, Nagata's eyes widened as he recognized her.
It was his biological mother, Ruby Oda.
"Okaasan..." he whispered.
"I knew you could do it, Naga-chan," Ruby smiled.
"Always move forward, kiddo!" Yang added proudly.
"Don't ever sacrifice your compassion for power," advised Blake.
"I knew you had potential. Just remember, Nagata. Maintain proper poise and good manners," finished Weiss.
Yang, Weiss, and Blake vanished. Even though he would never truly see them again, they were part of who he was. It was because of these women that he had become the man he was today.
Nagata allowed himself to smile. "Thank you...everyone. Thanks, Okaasan...Mom..."
"Can you really save anyone when you're so weak?"
He heard Jam's question again, but this time he had an answer. He turned to face his friends and smiled at them as they faded from view. They were, after all, just figments of his memories. Still, they remained as a proof of their bond.
"When I'm alone, I'm not always strong enough. But with them, and because of them, I am strong. Maybe I can't save everyone, but I can sure as hell try to save them whenever I can," Nagata answered.
He realized that he had been shouldering a great burden all on his own when there was no need to. The burden he carried was not his alone. It was a burden he needed to share because his greatest strength was not his ability to shoulder everything. It was in his ability to accept, share and move forward. He was strong not because of his own power but because he had his loved ones to encourage him every step of the way. If it weren't for them, he would've broken down a long time ago.
His true power was not in the Lockseeds or the SengokuDriver. It was in the bonds he forged, creating something greater than an army.
He had made a family in this world.
Ruby stood in front of Nagata. She smiled and kissed her son on both his cheeks. She had to stand on her toes, however, since he had grown much taller than her.
"Nagata, I'm so proud of you," she smiled.
"Thank you, Okaasan," Nagata replied, tears dripping from his eyes. He was going to miss her. "Looks like this is goodbye."
"I guess it is," Ruby nodded, smiling sadly. "I love you, Nagata."
"I love you too, Okaasan."
"Excuse me, but I think I should also be allowed to bid our son goodbye," Nagato Oda said as he appeared as well.
"...Otousan," Nagata whispered as he saw his father. He was wearing a black kimono top with a matching hakama. His dark hair was slightly spiked and he had blue eyes. A katana hung from his hip.
"You're late," Ruby frowned at her husband as she crossed her arms.
"Sorry, sorry, I was busy dealing with something. But it looks like you were able to handle things here without me." Nagato rubbed the back of his head in embarrassment. He approached his son and smiled. "Look at you. You're all grown up already."
Nagata suddenly wrapped his arms around his father and cried.
"Otousan...Otousan..." Nagato smiled and patted his son's back.
"I'm sorry I couldn't be there for you growing up," Nagato apologized. "Really wish we could catch up."
"It's OK, Otousan," Nagata said as he dried his tears. "I'm fine. I had Aunt Yang and Uncle Monta, I mean, Mom and Dad, to look after me."
"I have to admit, I was a bit worried when I found out Yang would be your adoptive mother. I'm just glad you didn't pick up some of her bad habits, or her puns," Nagato joked, earning an elbow to his side from his wife. "Ow, Ruby. I was just joking."
"Dad made sure of that, don't worry. So did Aunt Weiss and Aunt Blake," Nagata said gratefully. He looked at the sword hanging from his father's hip and remarked, "Well, that explains why I have such an affinity with swords."
"Yeah, and from what I've seen you've only gotten better," Nagato smiled proudly. "You might even be better than me."
"I hate to cut this family reunion short, but it's time to go," Chosen prompted Nagata. He was right. His friends needed him now.
"Okaasan, Otousan, there's so much I want to tell you," Nagata said.
"Just speak to us using your shrine. We may not be able to answer, but we're always listening," Ruby said.
"And I'm very proud of you, son. So very proud," Nagato added.
"Wait, before you leave, a last bit of motherly advice: open your heart to those girls. They really do love you," Ruby said to her son.
"Thank you," Nagata said gratefully before he vanished completely. "Goodbye..." This was the path he had chosen.
There was no turning back now.
KRC: Truth be told, this chapter was part of another chapter, but something told me it was best to make it its own chapter so I don't break the focus or your attention span if you need to focus on several events happening in the same chapter at the same time. Having two plots in the same chapter doesn't really work in literature.
So this entire chapter was just a test for Nagata's resolve. We get to see how Nagata gains the power of the Sovereigns, but it was in his head the whole time as he's stuck between life and death. Then he has to be tested, first to see his resolve as he faces his regrets and learns to accept them. It was to see his progress, how he deals with his failures, and whether or not he has the strength to move on or is held back by the terrible memories. He also gains some encouragement by his mother, as in his birth mother, who died. This could just be a manifestation created by his memories...or something more? What do you think?
Also, there is a lesson we can learn from this chapter. We're not perfect and we make mistakes. Sometimes these mistakes can cost others and we end up carrying the weight of the regret with us. We allow these regrets to drag us down and it turns into depression. But, we have the power to make things right and the first step is to accept these regrets and change them into something else. Change regrets into strength so that these mistakes are not repeated ever again. Basically, you need to accept your mistakes so you can move forward.
TFP: So Nagata had a trip to limbo and got a good look at himself. He's been given his final test and it seems he's passed. Still, with all the images and weird faces, how much of it was actually true and how much of it was simply a dream? Either way, he had to face some truths about himself that he had been avoiding up until now. Hopefully, with his resolve now restored, he can get back in action and bring down Braco once and for all!
Fruits of the Tree, Yggdrasil
Sparkling Orange Arms: This is the form Nagata assumed while fighting Kuro-no-Gaim. In terms of appearance, it resembles his Orange Arms but with a sparkling orange color scheme. His Ride Wear suit has also received minor redeco as the part of the mouthplate, wristbands, the trim around his boots and his knee pads also turn sparkling orange. Sparkling Orange Arms also possesses a pair of Daidaimaru. Not much else is known about this form as Nagata uses it in his mindscape and thus it is unlikely that this form will appear in reality. (Note: This form is based on Fresh Orange Arms).
(Black) Orange Arms: This is the form assumed by Kuro-no-Gaim. It is a black version of Gaim's default Orange Arms. It can be assumed that the stats are identical to the normal Orange Arms. It also has a black version of the Daidaimaru as its main Arms Weapon. The black color of this Arms represents the darkness surrounding Nagata's heart because of his regret as he failed to save the citizens of Rakuyo as it was burned.
After a moment of silence, Chosen turned to address the Red Reaper, aka Ruby Oda.
"Didn't you want to keep your identity a secret before?" Chosen asked Ruby.
She answered, "He never got the chance to say goodbye to us. Besides, he'll believe this was just a dream anyway."
"And that last bit of advice?" Chosen asked.
"I have been watching him all this time. I can't believe he's gotten so many girls interested in him," Ruby admitted in amazement and with a hint of pride.
"Tell me about it. I never thought our little boy would be great with women," added Nagato proudly. "He's turned into quite the ladies' man."
"He has Oyakata-sama's blood running through his veins. I'm sure he can handle the responsibility," said Ranmaru. "He'll have many heirs if he plays his cards right."
Chosen smiled and then turned towards a new figure who had just appeared. This figure had his back turned to Chosen, and was wearing a royal purple cape with a high gold collar. His hair was black and styled into a topknot.
"So, when will you make your presence known to him?" Chosen asked the mysterious figure curiously.
"Once he learns to accept his legacy," the figure answered before he vanished a moment later.
"See you again someday, Oyakata-sama..." Ranmaru said quietly before she vanished.
Chosen smiled before he vanished as well.
"Ruby, it's time to go," said Nagato.
"Nagato, do you think Naga-chan will know what happened to us?" Ruby asked with a hint of worry. "Do you think he'll find out how we died?"
"He'll find out," Nagato said with grim confidence. "Let's just hope he can handle it."
And then they were gone as well.
AWG CHIBI OMAKE #7: AFTERLIFE MOVIE NIGHT
Chosen was sitting in a movie theater with a tub of popcorn.
"Sorry we're late," Ruby apologized as she took the seat to his right.
"The line at the concession stand was long," added Ranmaru apologetically as she took the seat to his left.
"Plus Ruby wanted all the strawberry candy," Nagato stated as he sat next to his wife.
"It's alright. The movie hasn't started yet," Chosen smiled.
"So, what exactly are we watching again?" Ruby asked.
"Oh, we're just going to see your son kick reptilian ass."
"Cool! This is going to be so awesome! I can't wait!" Ruby pumped her fists.
"Ruby, calm down," Nagato chided. "Save your excitement for the movie."
"Ah, to see Oyakata-sama's descendant in action. Now that is something truly worth watching," smiled Ranmaru blissfully.
"Put on your 3D glasses. It's starting," Chosen instructed.
"ROMANCE IN THE SHOKU KINGDOM"
"HUNT FOR THE LEGENDARY RIDER LOCKSEEDS"
"SANGOKUDEN ARMORED WAR GODS SAGA THE MOVIE: PAST AND PRESENT, ALL HEARTS UNITED!"
"WOW! THIS IS AWESOME!" exclaimed Ruby.
"It's just the previews, Ruby," Nagato pointed out.
"Hey, keep it down in front!" yelled a voice and Ruby stood up to look behind her. She gasped. Sitting in the seats behind them were Maga, Kademu, Sorisa and Moriya.
"What are you monsters doing here!?" Ranmaru demanded.
"We're on our Hell Break and we thought it would be nice to do something together," said Moriya.
"Actually, we don't have a choice. We're shackled together," Kademu added.
"But we still get to see Braco get his ass handed to him, so it's not so bad," Sorisa said.
"We need more snacks," whined Maga.
"We got plenty! So pipe down!" yelled Moriya.
"Well...enjoy the movie...I guess," Ruby awkwardly replied and sat down. "Hell gives breaks?" she whispered.
"I don't think so," Nagato responded, unsure.
"They probably just snuck out," Chosen whispered back. "Oh, and now the real show is about to begin."
"I bet Naga-chan will be awesome," Ruby said confidently.
"I wager he will perform majestically," added Ranmaru.
"And he'll get the girls," nodded Nagato. "All of the girls."
"We just have to wait and see, won't we?" smiled Chosen mysteriously as he saw the title that was onscreen:
"AZURE ASCENSION"
"Nagata-sama!"
"Nagata!"
"Nagata-niichan!"
"Everyone...everyone's calling for me..." realized Nagata as the glow around him grew brighter.
"Then go to them," Ruby's spirit told him.
"Guys!" he shouted as blue lightning burst around him.
Back in the real world, the Kachidoki Lockseed in Nagata's SengokuDriver glowed. The orange glow enveloped the unconscious young man before it flew away, leaving an empty bed.
Meanwhile, outside, the Shoku Warriors were facing against Braco. They were marred by their injuries, but they still stood their ground. While Nagata was out of commission, it was up to them to protect Touka Village and the Kingdom of Shoku.
Braco gathered up energy into his hand before he threw the Rinki sphere at them. Suddenly, an orange sphere intercepted the purple energy sphere and shattered it. The orange sphere then vanished to reveal none other than Nagata.
He was alive and back in action.
The Shoku Warriors gasped in shock, but were overjoyed to see their precious Blue King back on his feet. They ran towards him, gathering around him as they wept tears of joy.
"Naga-kun, you're alive!" Karasu exclaimed joyfully as she wiped the tears from her eyes.
"Nagata-niichan, huwaaaaa~!" Chouhi cried as she hugged her big brother tightly.
"Nagata-sama," Kanu said who also cried tears of joy as she saw her beloved.
"Nagata-sama, you're alive," Ryuubi spoke softly.
"I heard you hearts call out to me," Nagata said. It was thanks to his mother's spirit that he could hear their hearts calling out to him. He couldn't be anymore happier.
Chosen stood in the distance, awestruck by this. He then smiled in approval. "So, looks like he created his own miracle."
Braco hissed, "So, you're alive."
Nagata saw Braco and walked towards him, stopping only a few feet away. Blue lightning flashed from his chest before something came out. Nagata took hold of the object and activated it.
[LOCK OPEN!]
A bright light enveloped him as a result before revealing his Rider form. However, the radiance surrounding him prevented anyone from seeing his new form clearly.
[RYUJIN ARMS!]
Chosen's eyes widened as he shouted at the sight of the phenomenon, "NOW IT'S A SUPER MIRACLE!"
Braco fired a concentrated sphere of Rinki at Gaim, but he casually smacked it away.
[MUSOU SABER! HINAWA DAIDAI DJ JU! DAIDAIMARU!]
The weapon he summoned was the DJ Gun Sojinto Mode.
"I'll protect my friends, my family, and everyone in this land!" Gaim swore loudly as he swung his weapon.
[SOIYA! RYUJIN SPARKING!]
He swung vertically and horizontally, sending a giant cross of crackling blue energy flying towards Braco. He was engulfed by it and destroyed instantly.
* Special thanks to Bloodyredrose1994 for the above 'preview' clip.
