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.


Deep in the Helheim Forest, a human body lay to rot. The Inves avoided it as it had no nutritional value to them.

Once, the body belonged to a man with ambition, who wanted to be known far and wide as a great hero. He took the name 'Ryuubi Gentoku' and rallied people to join him. He made them believe he was an honorable, brave and selfless hero. But the truth was he was merely an imposter with selfish desire, and he became known as 'Nise'. It was an appropriate name for a con man like him. He lived his life as a conniving weasel, so he was fated to die like one.

He first started to go down this path when he stole the real Ryuubi's name and her family heirloom, manipulating others in order to elevate his status. He even tried to gain fame by attempting to become an Armored War God himself but failed. Once all the lies and deceit were revealed, he fled in disgrace, vowing vengeance against Gaim for taking away what he believed to be rightfully his.

He joined the Armored War Devils and became Bloody Gaim. Unfortunately, even with the new power in his hands, he was nowhere near as strong as Gaim who just kept becoming stronger. It was frustrating and humiliating each time he was defeated and forced to flee by the Blue King.

He finally had some decent power when he took Zangetsu's GenesisDriver and Melon Energy Lockseed. Unfortunately, it still wasn't enough! He had power, but not the skill to use it! He was still so weak!

He was slain once and for all by Armored War God Ryugen after the Demon Dragon shot him in the head and left his body to rot. It was what he deserved after all the sins he had committed in his selfish pursuit of fame, fortune and glory.

His spirit could not rest and he was bound here, to his body, where he laid to rot. Even his handsome features were no more as Ryugen had blown his head up.

Envy, resentment, anger, hatred...all these emotions festered within his soul. But what could he do? He was just a spirit now. He could do nothing. He would now be forgotten. His days of glory and fame were gone now and this was his retribution.

No! He wasn't going to accept that! He had come so far without giving up! Why should death decide it was time to quit!?

He hadn't left his SengokuDriver or his Blood Orange Lockseed behind. In fact, he still kept the devices on him even after he started using the GenesisDriver and Melon Energy Lockseed. Thus was his nature and greed for power, never letting go of even a drop of it. The two objects floated into the air, surrounded by a dark malevolent aura.

The Blood Orange Lockseed was not like any other Lockseeds. It had power in and of itself which the villain Bujin Gaim once held. When the Lockseed was brought to the world of the Three Kingdoms, that malevolent power was reborn with it. Now that dark power which remained untouched was finally coming back to life.

The Blood Orange Lockseed unlocked itself.

[BLOOD ORANGE!]

Once it was unlocked, the Blood Orange Armor Part materialized. As it glowed, his body dissolved into a red mist that rose up and entered the opening on the underside of the Armor Part. That was all that it needed to complete its transformation.

The Blood Orange Lockseed locked onto the SengokuDriver and the Cutting Blade came down by itself.

[BLOOD ORANGE ARMS! JA NO MICHI ON STAGE!]

A dark shadowy figure seemed to emerge from the belt as the Blood Orange Armor Part descended and disassembled onto the dark figure's body. A glowing dark figure now stood in the center of the forest, its visor glowing blood red.

Its manifestation had not gone unnoticed. Various Elementary and Berserker State Inves had been drawn by the Lockseed's activation. The entity saw them and he watched as they came onto the clearing, curious.

The dark figure didn't let them come any closer. It spread out its arms, unleashing a mass of tentacles that burst out in all directions. They struck as swift as lightning, impaling each of the Inves before they drew the Inves towards the entity. It devoured them, gobbling them up as it swallowed them whole.

"Gaim..." the entity growled. It then sensed the presence of more Inves as they surrounded it. For a moment, the entity gazed at them. Thoughts of revenge were temporarily forgotten as a different urge took its place.

It was hungry.

Taking hold of one of the fruits, the entity brought it to its mouth and took a huge bite out of it, before finishing it off with another. It continued to eat as the Inves watched, just watched, completely intimidated by this entity's presence and power. None dared to confront it. Perhaps they were smarter than people gave them credit for.

"More..." the entity growled and turned its gaze back towards the Inves. It licked its lips and started to approach them. They would be its next meal to satisfy its hunger.


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

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

Chapter 10: A Mysterious Beauty Appears

Beta Reader/Editor: Busterleader92


Something was happening in Touka Village. Gaim was already prepared for battle as he crouched down with his Musou Saber gripped tightly and held to his shoulder. His Daidaimaru was held in front of him, pointed forward. His eyes darted left and right as his jaw clenched.

Gaim was already prepared for battle as he crouched down with his Musou Saber gripped tightly and held to his shoulder. His Daidaimaru was held in front of him, pointed forward. His eyes darted left and right as his jaw clenched.

His opponents were none other than the Shoku Warriors. They had him surrounded and threatening him with their weapons. Ryugen stood in front of him in his Kiwi Arms. Looking around, he saw Chou'un, Bacho, Kanu, Batai and Gien all glaring at him with their weapons leveled at him.

How had it all come to this?

Kanu suddenly leaped towards him and he twisted his body to block her blow. This left him wide open as Batai and Chou'un rushed at him from the other side. He was struck and sent reeling. Ryugen rushed at him and slashed him repeatedly with the Kiwi Gekirin. Gien smashed him with her kanabo, the Blunt Shattered Bone, violently disarming him and sending him tumbling.

As the Shoku Warriors rushed in to finish the job, Ryofu and Chouhi came out of nowhere and blocked their charge.

"Leave him alone," ordered Ryofu.

"Stop hurting Nagata-niichan!" Chouhi shouted.

Gaim rose to his feet and stepped forward before gently patting Chouhi's head. He did the same to Ryofu as everyone relaxed.

"Ren, Rinrin, it's OK," Gaim told them. "This is training, remember?"

"Oh?" Chouhi blinked and she laughed awkwardly. "Oh, right. It's training."

"You forgot again, didn't you?" Batai deadpanned.

"Of course not!" Chouhi denied.

"You totally did."

"Did not!"

"Did too!"

"Did not!"

"Did too!"

"Did not!"

"Girls, we really don't have time for this," Kanu scolded.

"Aisha's right. Besides, it's not like we can't start over again," Ryugen remarked.

"I forgot too," said Ryofu as she raised her hand.

"You were just doing your job as my bodyguard, Ren," Gaim smiled. "Alright, let's start over." The Shoku Warriors, except for Ryofu and Chouhi, got into their position as they surrounded Gaim. "Ren, Rinrin, you girls can join too."

"OK, Onii-chan!" Chouhi beamed.

Ryofu silently nodded before taking her position as well.


"Suikyo-sensei, Hoto, how are you both settling in?" Nagata asked as he greeted the two. Both Komei's former teacher and kohai had come to visit Touka Village sometime after the Venom Fists' defeat. Komei had sent them a letter which described the events, so they came to check up on her in person. Sure enough, they were relieved to see that Nagata's little strategist was doing fine.

During their visit, Nagata offered if Suikyo would stay and teach at their local schoolhouse. The teacher asked to be given some time to think over the offer. He didn't force the issue and invited Suikyo and Hoto to attend the Harvest Festival. He could wait for an answer later.

Nagata had invited both Hoto and Suikyo to stay for several reasons. Mainly, he needed a teacher seeing as Kanu would be busy with her duties as a general to teach the children like she used to. They did have some capable teacher in the village, but they were getting old. Also, he knew that Suikyo lived isolated in the mountains. Her only source of company were her students who would eventually leave the nest. Hoto was her latest student and quite intelligent as well.

Perhaps he did have some ulterior motives. Hoto Shigen, like Shokatsuryou Komei, was a great strategist. Maybe he was just trying to stack the deck in his favor while also bringing this family closer together.

"Oh, we're doing fine," Suikyo smiled. All her things had been brought to Touka Village safely. She had agreed to be a teacher here due to her love for children. While the children weren't prodigies like Komei or Hoto, Suikyo should be able to provide them with an education. Reading and writing were the basics, and so were math skills. She should be able to nurture them and maybe awaken another prodigy among the children.

"And the children? What do you think of them?" Nagata asked.

"Oh, the students are learning fine. Except for..." Suikyo hesitated to say.

"You're talking about Rinrin, right?" Nagata guessed.

"She has trouble focusing, unfortunately," Suikyo sighed. "She's not a bad student, she's just very challenging."

"Rinrin's a good kid, and she's busy with training and her duties as one of my generals. She's just a bit playful," Nagata said.

"I know, and it's good that she has so much energy. It's contagious, and the children love playing with her," Suikyo smiled.

"Well, just be patient with her. I know she can be a good student if she tries," Nagata replied. "How about you, Hoto? How do you like it here in Touka Village?"

"It's great! I get to spend more time with Shuri and she tells me what she's done! I hope to be able to do as much as she does for you!" Hoto answered before she blushed and lowered her hat to hide her face.

"You will be," Nagata assured her.

"Hinari is quite capable as a strategist and advisor," Suikyo commended. "If she and Shuri work together, I know they can help you in many amazing ways."

"I look forward to that."


While it was a peaceful day in Touka Village, that was no reason to be complacent. Danger could unexpectedly appear. In Shoku, this village was both the safest and the most dangerous place to live in. It was dangerous due to the frequent monster attacks it experienced, but the villagers felt safe knowing that they had the Armored War Gods and the Shoku Warriors present to protect them.

A couple of guards stood in front of the village gate while sentries stood on the wall that surrounded the village. There was even a watchtower used by guards to watch for any incoming attacks coming from the distance. A gong would be sounded to ring the alarm and warn the villagers of an attack. It would also summon their ruler, Armored War God Gaim, and the Shoku Warriors to do battle with the threat.

The two guards, Aah and Bie, stood guard and looked intimidating with their spears. They had been given gate guard duty based on the schedule that was drawn up by the strategist, Shokatsuryou Komei. This month, it was their turn.

"You know, the Harvest Festival was fun this year," said Aah.

"It sure was. I even got to shake hands with the Chou Sisters," smirked Bie.

"Come on, Bie. Don't lie. You fainted as soon as it was your turn in line," Aah teased.

"Did not!" Bie denied. He looked ahead towards the path leading towards the village and squinted his eyes. "Hey, Aah. I think I see something."

"Is it a monster?" Aah asked, a bit nervous. He had taken part in the battle that took place weeks ago. He really didn't want to be part of another battle so soon after the last one. It took him some time to recover after he witnessed many of his fellow soldiers being killed in action.

"No, I think it's a woman," said Bie. He was right. A woman was approaching the gate. They would've halted her and asked her to identify herself. However, the two of them were struck speechless. First, it was due to her beauty. She had to be the most beautiful woman they had ever seen. The second reason for their speechlessness was due to the state she was in. She was exhausted and injured, with her clothing ripped in place.

"Miss, are you alright?" Aah asked worriedly. Had this woman been attacked by bandits and managed to escape?

"Please...please help me..." the woman pleaded before she collapsed in front of the gate. Aah caught her before she landed face down on the ground, holding her against him.


"Place her on the bed right here," Kada instructed the guard who was carrying the injured woman. He gently laid her down on the bed. "There, she can rest."

"Something's happening," pointed Aah as dark energy rippled all over the woman before she changed before their eyes. The red robe and pale mask-like face were immediately recognizable as the woman's true identity was revealed. "It's one of those monsters!"

"Wait! Call Gaim-sama and have him come and see," Kada instructed. The guards left and Kada looked at the unconscious Rinrinshi. "Why did you come here?"


Nagata sat on his throne. Today, he held court so that the citizens could have an audience with him. He dressed casually as that would help him connect better with the peasant. He would give them advice and solutions to their problems, while Komei and Ryuubi also advised him on the right course of action.

It was just part of the job, it seemed. The problems weren't very serious, at least not to him, but it was still his job to make sure his people could live in peace and harmony.

"Alright, that's the last of them," Komei noted.

"How many was that?" Nagata asked.

"You managed to resolve 56 problems, Nagata-sama. You should be proud of yourself," Komei complimented.

"I know, but what bothers me is what some of the minor lords are asking me to do," Nagata said. "And it's not the marriage proposals this time."

"It's about your new Ryujin Arms," Komei concluded. "They were trying to persuade you to take the throne as the new Emperor."

"I've read some of those letters, and they really want you to be Emperor, Nagata-sama," added Ryuubi.

"That isn't my goal. I didn't obtain this power to conquer or rule. I just want everyone to live in peace, not force them to accept my rule," Nagata replied.

"I'm afraid that it's all just a matter of politics, Nagata-sama. Ever since the tales of how you single-handedly defeated Braco spread, many nobles have been trying to earn your favor," Komei started to explain.

"Believe me. I know. They made their intentions pretty clear with the gifts they sent," Nagata remarked.

"The nobles are just trying to take advantage of your newfound power. If they can convince you to take the throne as Emperor, they can then claim they helped put you on the throne. If they manage to make you look good, they look good too," Komei finished.

"And they think because I'm supposedly the strongest Armored War God, I should be the new Emperor?" Nagata asked.

"A strong ruler is a symbol for a strong nation, and a good deterrent against enemies," Komei remarked. "Invaders from outside our borders would think twice before they attempt to attack. That means our territories will be safe."

"They also expect me to conquer the other kingdoms with my newfound powers," Nagata reminded dryly.

"Yes, that is problematic. That could lead to war," Komei agreed.

Nagata sighed. "Why can't things be simple and not involve politics for once?"

"It's always about politics. Part of being a ruler is dealing with it. Of course, some loyalists of the old dynasty may not accept you. You don't have the Seal of Heaven."

"Because it's in the RinJyuKen's hands," Nagata finished with a sigh. "I bet they wouldn't believe me if I told them I wasn't interested, would they?"

"I'm afraid not. Only a lunatic would refuse the chance to become Emperor."

"Then call me crazy, because I don't intend to become Emperor."

"You should consider it, Nagata-sama," advised Komei. "Being Emperor could give you the power needed to bring about the peace that you've wanted all this time."

"And I think you would make a great Emperor, Nagata-sama," praised Ryuubi.

"Thanks, you two," Nagata smiled before he stood up. "Now, I could use a break and stretch my legs. Sitting on a throne all day is not how I plan to spend today. Thanks for helping me, girls. I don't think I could've handled all those complaints and requests on my own."

While Komei accepted Nagata's praise graciously, Ryuubi beamed. He had praised her after the battle as well and it felt good to have his approval. She really did do well in his eyes and would strive to impress him in the future. The best part was that he finally accepted her feelings. While it meant sharing him with Kanu, Ryofu, Chou'un and Bacho, she was not disappointed. As long as he returned her feelings, she was happy.

"Well, I have to gain experience. You did say that I would one day rule Shoku," she reasoned.

"And you will," he promised. It wasn't the right time. He wasn't trying to hold power. He needed to stay in power, at least until the RinJyuKen were dealt with. Ryuubi was compassionate, idealistic, and also selfless, kind of like him. However, she just wasn't ready to rule just yet. He wasn't going to put her on the throne until the time was right. "You know, I think we should all go grab a bite to eat and-"

"Seiryuoh-sama!" Bie shouted as he entered the throne room. Walking alongside him was Ryofu who had been guarding the entrance.

"Oh, what is it now?" Nagata groaned as he sat back down.

"Nagata-sama, he says it's urgent," said Ryofu.

"There's a Rinrinshi in Kada-sensei's clinic, Seiryuoh-sama!"

Now that got their attention.

"Girls, let's go," ordered Nagata. "Guess we'll be getting that snack later."

"Yes, Nagata-sama!"


Nagata headed towards Kada's clinic, followed by Komei, Ryuubi, Ryofu, and Gien. It did not take them very long to reach Kada's clinic. In fact, it was very close to the castle. When the doctor saw them arrive, he stood up straight to greet them.

"Welcome, everyone," he politely greeted. "Especially you, Seiryuoh-sama."

Nagata rolled his eyes. "Kada-sensei, you don't need to call me that. We're friends. I gave you my name and everything."

"Indeed, Nagata-sama, but that is your official title. I didn't wish to be disrespectful," he told him.

"So, where's the Rinrinshi?" Nagata asked. Ryuubi had her hand wrapped around the hilt of her sword, ready to draw it. Gien was at her side, hands gripping her own kanabo and ready to defend Ryuubi. Ryofu also had her guard up. She needed to be ready to defend her beloved lord. Komei, the only non-combatant, stood behind Nagata for protection.

"She's inside and currently unconscious," Kada answered as he pointed towards the room inside.

"She?" Ryuubi asked curiously.

"Yes, I'll explain later. Nagata-sama, could your officers wait outside here?" Kada asked.

"Girls, do you mind waiting out here?" Nagata asked.

"I'm going in with you," Ryofu insisted. She was not going to shirk her responsibilities as his bodyguard.

"Can at least one of them come in with us?" Nagata asked. Ryofu would not budge. She took her duties very seriously.

"Just don't start a fight inside, alright?" Kada requested. Nagata had to agree that starting a fight inside Kada's clinic would wreck the place. They had this place built so he could practice in Touka Village.

Ryuubi, Gien, and Komei watched as Nagata and Ryofu followed Kada inside. They were worried. What if the Rinrinshi attacked Nagata? They really couldn't afford to lose him because he was being careless.

Nagata and Ryofu stood, surprised to see a Rinrinshi lying in bed.

"She has no heartbeat, no pulse, but she does have Ki," Kada listed.

"Rinki," Nagata corrected.

Rinrinshi were an advanced form of Rinshi, and thus still undead. Rinrinshi just had the power of speech and access to more powerful techniques compared to the grunts that functioned as mere cannon fodder.

"How did she get here?" Ryofu asked. She didn't trust the RinJyuKen, and the sight of the Rinrinshi unnerved her. One of them had nearly killed her beloved Nagata-sama. She would not allow another to succeed in doing the same.

"Well, she apparently came in the form of a woman. She looked hurt and exhausted. I thought she escaped from bandits, but now I'm not so sure. Something definitely attacked her," answered Kada.

"Kada-sensei, do you have any talismans to contain her?" Nagata asked, frowning in thought. "I wish to question her once she regains consciousness."

"Nagata-sama, don't you want to destroy it?" Ryofu asked.

"I'm not going to kill an opponent that can't fight back," he replied. He was no monster. He was better than that.

"My apologies." Ryofu bowed her head. He caressed her cheek and looked her in the eyes.

"I understand. You're just worried," said Nagata. "Kada, I'll send some soldiers here to help you guard our guest. Inform me if there are any changes, alright?"

"Yes, Nagata-sama," Kada bowed.


"Nagata-sama, is it wise to leave Kada-sensei alone with that Rinrinshi?" Komei asked as the group headed back to the castle.

"It should be okay," replied Nagata. While Kada was first and foremost a doctor, he was also a capable martial artist. A weakened Rinrinshi wouldn't be able to take him down, much less without kicking up an alarm.

"I know you'll send some guards to help him watch over the Rinrinshi, but what if it breaks out of the containment spell?" she questioned.

"Well, that's why I know just who to send to guard Kada and our guest." He had the perfect candidate for such an assignment. It was someone he trusted, someone he knew would not fail him, someone who would be able to deal with the Rinrinshi if things got a bit too dicey.


"You want me to guard Kada-sensei and a Rinrinshi that's currently lying unconscious in his clinic?" Karasu asked.

"Can you do it?" Nagata asked.

"Of course I can, Naga-kun. I just think it would be so much easier to just eliminate it," Karasu answered.

"She's not a threat. According to Kada and the guards, she came to the village, injured, exhausted and in need of help. Something attacked her and forced her to run to us for help. I just want to find out what could scare a Rinrinshi so much that she would come to us for help," Nagata stated.

"It could be a trap. The Rinrinshi could be taking advantage of your compassion so it could assassinate you when you least expect it," Karasu argued.

"That's a strong possibility, but I still need to ask her if she knows anything at all. The RinJyuKen have been quiet for weeks and I need to know what they're planning," Nagata told her. This was an opportunity for some Intel which couldn't be ignored. "Can I trust you to watch her until she regains consciousness?"

Karasu thought she should just kill the Rinrinshi and be done with it, but she could not disobey Nagata. "Alright, but I am only doing this for you."

"Thank you, Kara-chan," Nagata said as he gave her a brief hug. Karasu smiled as she returned the hug. "Call me on your LockPhone when she wakes up."

"Alright, Naga-kun."

As Nagata left Karasu, her pet crow Po landed on her shoulder. Its red eyes seemed to follow Nagata before turning to look at her. Karasu shrugged and headed for Kada's clinic to help look after their 'guest'.


When Kada started studying under Master Brusa Li, he learned about the properties of Rinki. It was Ki powered by negative emotions such as fear, anger, sorrow, hatred and envy. It just felt so cold and dark that Kada didn't want to have anything to do with it. The polar opposite of Rinki, however, was called Geki, and it was Ki that was powered by positive emotions like joy, righteousness, courage and love. It was truly amazing how much he had learned from the old sage.

The sage had also given him instructions to stay in Touka Village. He said he would be needed. That was why Kada, of the WAY OF THE FIVE GRAINS, had opened a clinic here in Touka Village. So far, the sage wasn't wrong as he arrived to help Nagata recover from the Madoku.

As Kada sat by the bed, his eyes could not leave the Rinrinshi. He was curious about its ability to disguise itself as a beautiful young woman. It even had him fooled until it was forced to drop its disguise due to its injured condition.

"Who or what attacked you?" Kada wondered. Karasu entered the room and he greeted her, "Idunn-sama, did Nagata-sama send you here to guard me?"

"It only makes sense he would send me in case our 'guest' here suddenly turned aggressive," answered Karasu. "So, how is it being kept in place?"

"I placed paper talismans around the bed to form a barrier around it," answered Kada. "Using properties of Geki, I infused the talismans with energy so the Rinrinshi may not escape."

"And you're sure it can't get out?" Karasu asked.

"I'm positive," confirmed Kada. "But it couldn't hurt to have a contingency plan."

Kada had only spoken to Karasu a few times. The first time they had met was when he came to treat Nagata after his unfortunate encounter with Braco. He knew she cared about her cousin and had heard how she lashed out and attacked the physician who had checked him that time.

She was a dangerous person, but Kada had met plenty of dangerous people in his line of work. He still couldn't enter Sou Gi without risking Sousou's wrath.


"You're crazy," Iori said.

"I second that notion," agreed Bacho.

"I know," sighed Nagata.

"Nagata-sama, what were you thinking?" Chinkyuu asked. She was pretty vocal among his officers, mostly because she didn't have much respect for him before. However, she had warmed up to him. That still didn't stop her from insulting him when she felt it was necessary.

He had gathered his officers at the Round Table to inform them of this current development. The reason they were upset was that there was a Rinrinshi in their midst and it hadn't been eliminated.

"Nagata-sama, you of all people should know what a Rinrinshi is capable of if left unchecked," Kanu argued.

"I left Kara-chan to help Kada-sensei guard her," he pointed out.

"'Her'?" Chou'un raised an eyebrow.

"She showed up disguised as a woman. That's why I'm identifying the Rinrinshi as female," Nagata clarified. There were female Rinrinshi, after all, even if their gender was not so obvious until they transformed.

"You should've just killed it and put it out of its misery," Iori coldly suggested, a notion everyone at the table agreed. Well, almost everyone.

Well, almost everyone.

"Nagata-sama is just doing what he think is best," Ryuubi argued.

"But one of those monsters nearly killed Onii-chan!" Chouhi rebutted. "I say we just kill!"

"Rinrin's right," agreed Batai. "I mean why do we need to keep it alive anyway?"

"For information. Once the Rinrinshi wakes up, I will question her about the RinJyuKen," Nagata told his officers.

Now they understood.

"You want to interrogate her," Chou'un concluded.

"Still seems pretty risky if you ask me," Bacho said as she crossed her arms.

"Kada-sensei has her behind a barrier and she won't be able to break free from it. I'll be fine," Nagata reassured them.

"This is a rare chance for us to learn more about the RinJyuKen. Something we learn today might just help us stop them for good," Komei supported.

"I still don't like it," Bacho frowned.

"If it makes you feel any better, you can all be in the room with me," Nagata said to them. "I mean, what could go wrong?"

"Seriously?" Iori deadpanned. "After everything that has happened, you still say that?"


"NO! NO! PLEASE, NO!"

The unfortunate bandit choked on his own blood as the sharp tentacle penetrated his throat. Tentacles then wrapped around the bandit's body and he was drawn into the entity's gaping jaw.

The entity looked around the now empty bandit camp. It had devoured all the bandits, but it still wasn't satisfied.

"Not enough. Need to find her. Need her power."


"It's been hours and it still hasn't woken up yet," Karasu complained. The sun had long set and the Rinrinshi was still asleep. It could be dead, but then it would've turned to dust. It was an undead being, so there was no point in checking its breath and pulse.

She had updated Nagata on their 'guest's' status. She told him there had been no change since he last saw the Rinrinshi. Honestly, Karasu was eager to draw her sword and end it right now. But she remembered Nagata's orders. She would not disobey him no matter how tempted she was.

Suddenly, the Rinrinshi sat up on the bed. Kada jumped to his feet and Karasu reached for her blade. The Rinrinshi turned towards them as its appearance changed, becoming more human-like and female. She was a very beautiful woman, and Kada blushed at the sight of her. It might just be an illusion, but she just looked so beautiful.

"Do you..." the female Rinrinshi spoke slowly, "Have anything...to eat?"

What?

Karasu flipped open her LockPhone to call Nagata. He would want to hear about this.

"Naga-kun, our guest has just woken up. She's also hungry. Bring food."

"Hey, do I know you?" the female Rinrinshi asked. "You seem familiar."

Karasu ignored the Rinrinshi's inquiry and waited for Nagata to arrive. He would bring food, as requested. He never could ignore an order for his cooking.

"Yeah, I think I've seen you someplace before," the female Rinrinshi continued. "Can't seem to remember right now, but I know I've seen you."

"We've never met," Karasu denied.

"Ah, it'll come to me. The easiest way to remember something is to not think about it too hard. Just let it come naturally," the female Rinrinshi said lazily. "By the way, I love your hair and you have a really nice outfit. It really suits you."

Karasu cocked an eyebrow. Why was this Rinrinshi trying to converse with her? Didn't she know she was a prisoner? It was like she wasn't aware of what was going on.

"So, where am I?" the female Rinrinshi wondered.

"Look, just shut up and don't talk to me," Karasu ordered.

"Wow, you sound like you woke up on the wrong side of the bed. Cranky and grumpy. You should get laid. Works wonders and really helps with stress," the female Rinrinshi replied, ignoring Karasu's order for her to shut up.

Karasu's hand reached for her sword and gripped the hilt tightly. But then she reminded herself that the barrier around the Rinrinshi would just prevent her from harming it. Besides, once Nagata got here, the Rinrinshi was no longer her responsibility.


"So, how's our guest?" Nagata asked as he arrived at the clinic.

"Oh, Naga-kun! You're finally here!" Karasu greeted happily once he showed up.

"Ah, now you're happy," observed the Rinrinshi-in-disguise.

"Shut up!" Karasu hissed.

Nagata arrived at Kada's clinic, bringing his officers with him. They wanted to meet this new Rinrinshi 'guest' of theirs. Kada advised to not startle their guest. Nagata agreed. This was a chance to use diplomacy instead of strong-arm tactics to achieve a goal. That was why he was carrying a bento box full of rice balls instead of his swords.

Nagata entered the clinic first, followed by the rest of his officers. This was his first time seeing the Rinrinshi in her human disguise. He had expected to see a human girl, but he had not expected to see an incredibly beautiful human girl.

She wore a dark red kimono, but the front was open and hung off her shoulders, nearly exposing her chest. The edges of the cloth were lined with soft brown fur that could tickle with a touch. The sleeves on the kimono hung long, hiding her hands with more fur on the ends of the sleeves. The bottom half of the kimono was also wide open, revealing her legs. She wore lacy dark stockings which were held up with a garter belt just barely hidden. She also wore thigh-high boots with high heels which had a number of belts keeping them tight on her legs. She wore a black choker around her neck with a purple stone in the center. Her face was beautiful with lush red lips and tasteful purple-black mascara on her eyes. Her hair was dark, the front coming over her left eye while the rest was tied back into a bun that was braided up and held with needles. Topping it all off was the beauty mark near her lips adding a bit of sexiness to her face.

Nagata didn't want to admit it out loud, but the Rinrinshi sure knew how to create a gorgeous human disguise. No one would realize she was an undead being.

It was Bacho's reaction that surprised everyone.

"EEEEEEHHHHHHHH!?" Bacho screamed as she saw the female Rinrinshi.

"What is it, Sui?" Nagata asked, surprised.

"I know her! She was one of Zhong's mistresses!" Bacho shouted.

"Nice to meet you again. My name is Nanamomo," the Rinrinshi-Nanamomo-introduced herself with a smile.

"A Rinrinshi. I was speaking with a Rinrinshi and I didn't even know it," Bacho muttered.

"Don't be too hard on yourself. When I look like this, men don't tend to ask a lot of questions," Nanamomo winked.

"They certainly wouldn't," Iori muttered in agreement.

"Ano, Nanamomo-san, how did you become so beautiful?" Ryuubi asked. She couldn't help it. She felt envious. It was the same kind of feeling Kosonsan had regarding her own looks.

"Oh, just effective beauty treatment, a healthy diet, and exercise," Nanamomo answered nonchalantly.

"Are you really a Rinrinshi?" Chouhi asked. She had seen a lot of Rinrinshi, a lot of them, but none of them ever looked so human. Nanamomo could pass off as any other person, but she would still stick out due to her unearthly beauty.

"Would it help if I looked something like this?" Nanamomo tilted her head as her human features were temporarily replaced by the white mask-like face of a Rinrinshi. The group took a step back in shock before Nanamomo reapplied her human disguise.

"OK, now I'm convinced she's not human," stated Batai.

"So, I was told I would get something to eat," Nanamomo said.

"Um, here," said Nagata as he held the bento box. "Kada-sensei, could you make a small opening in the barrier? Big enough so I can hand this box to her?"

"Actually..." Kada began before he slapped a talisman on the box. "Alright, it should be able to pass through."

Nagata blinked and then held the bento towards Nanamomo. He saw rippling in the air-that was probably the barrier-as it gave way to allow the box entry. Nanamomo got up from the bed and snatched the box from Nagata's hands.

"Thank you," she said as she opened the box and then picked up the first rice ball before shoving the whole thing into her mouth. Her eyes widened with delight as she began chewing before swallowing it. "That was delicious! The best rice ball I've had in ages!"

"If you must know, Naga-kun made them with his own hands," Karasu boasted proudly. She would not hesitate to proclaim her cousin's skills.

Nanamomo took a bite out of another one and praised, "These are really good! Did you really make them yourself?"

"It's kind of a hobby of mine, really, but yeah. I made them," Nagata admitted. He and others observed as Nanamomo continued to eat, and she was not at all alarmed by their presence. As he watched her eat, Nagata was thinking about the questions he planned to ask her, questions that would help them gain valuable information in order to defeat the RinJyuKen.

"So, can we start the questioning?" Nagata asked.

"You mean 'interrogation', don't you?" Nanamomo corrected. "OK, but I'll only talk with you. Everyone else will have to leave us alone."

Nagata considered her request and nodded before he addressed the others, "Everyone, could you leave us alone?" Normally, his orders would be obeyed without question. This was not one of those times. Protests rang out from his friends as he attempted to talk them down. Nanamomo watched as she continued to eat, intrigued by their interaction.

"Nagata-sama, you can't be serious!" Kanu cried. "You can't expect us to leave you alone with her!"

"She's a Rinrinshi, Naga-kun. She's the enemy," Karasu stated.

"We can't trust her to be alone with you," Iori said.

"I don't think Nagata-sama has anything to worry about, though," rebutted Bacho. "When I met her, she didn't seem to care about much beyond her own comfort and satisfaction."

"She was playing a role to deceive everyone around her," Karasu argued. "She didn't want to blow her cover so she just pretended to be a mistress."

"Look, she's sitting behind a barrier. She can't break out," Nagata pointed.

"Actually, with enough force, I might be able to break this thing wide open," Nanamomo answered, causing everyone to look at her warily. "What? This is a pretty formidable barrier, but it's not impregnable." She shrugged. "But that's just way too much work for me. Besides, this is a pretty comfortable bed and the food's not so bad."

"See? She won't try anything as long as she gets everything she needs," Bacho said.

"So, you'll just sit there quietly?" Nagata asked.

"If you make me more delicious treats like those rice balls, I'll stay here forever," Nanamomo answered.

"It's getting a bit crowded in here. You should all wait outside." Kada ushered the group out so Nagata could be alone with the Rinrinshi.

"Nagata-sama if anything happens, do not hesitate to call us," Kanu advised.

"Don't worry. I think I can trust our guest not to do anything bad towards me," Nagata replied. It sounded pretty flimsy, trusting a Rinrinshi, but he couldn't help but feel that Nanamomo was different. "Besides, I have my Driver and Lockseeds, just in case."

"Be careful," Karasu advised her cousin. She then stepped towards the Rinrinshi and threatened, "If you do anything to harm him, anything at all, I swear I will make your afterlife a living Hell."

Nanamomo responded by rolling her eyes and yawning, infuriating the dark-haired girl.

"Relax, I won't try to seduce him," Nanamomo said to her, winking and smiling. "But then again, with my looks, would I even need to try?"

Karasu was already reaching for her sword as she was dragged out of the room.

"You really love pushing people's buttons, don't you?" Nagata asked.

"I need to get my entertainment somehow. Anyway, thanks for getting them to leave. I mean, I could've ignored them, but it's hard to eat when people are watching. It gets awkward," said Nanamomo gratefully.

"They're just very protective of me," Nagata replied.

"I can see that. The way you inspire such loyalty is commendable. They'll even go against your orders if it means keeping you safe," said Nanamomo, impressed.

"So can we get started?" Nagata asked.

"Go ahead," prompted Nanamomo as she took another bite out of a rice ball. "But try not to ask questions that are far too personal, OK? A girl has to be allowed to keep some secrets, don't you think?" Nanamomo winked, causing Nagata to blush a bit. She made it hard for him to remember that she was a Rinrinshi right now.

"So I saw the ornament on your forehead earlier. Were you the same Sloth Rinrinshi we met some time ago?" asked Nagata.

"Yes, that was me," Nanamomo confirmed.

"But you sounded male."

"An old trick of mine. I practiced it when I was alive. Really helped when I used to pass myself off as a male."

"And you can assume a human form too. Can all Rinrinshi do that?" asked Nagata.

"Only those who remember what it's like to be human, like the Femme Fatales," Nanamomo answered. "Most refuse to even take on a human form since they have too much pride in being monsters."

"Your leaders can assume human form too?" Nagata was shocked. He had not known that at all.

"It helps them blend in with society and spy on their enemies, or so they say," said Nanamomo. "Personally, I think it's about vanity."

"And what about you?" Nagata asked.

"Oh, why I choose to use a human form?" Nanamomo asked. "Isn't it obvious? Just look at me!"

She had a point there.

"Bacho knew you from Zhong's place," Nagata stated. "What were you doing there exactly?"

"I was part of his little harem," Nanamomo answered.

"Why would you willingly be part of that?" Nagata asked.

"The guy was rich, and he was offering to let me stay in his place as long as I was willing to go to bed with him," Nanamomo answered with a casual shrug. "It seemed like a pretty sweet deal. I had a comfortable place to sleep and access to some very delicious cuisine. He wasn't bad in in bed either. I mean, he wasn't great but he was satisfactory, at least."

That was not the answer Nagata expected. He initially thought the Rinrinshi just wanted to cause trouble in order generate Rinki to absorb, but all she wanted was a roof over her head, a place to sleep, and food to eat.

"So you weren't gathering Rinki?" he asked.

"Oh, I was, just not actively," she answered. "Do you know how much jealousy, greed, and lust was floating around there? There was a whole lot of that floating around the place that I barely needed to lift a finger. I just had to look pretty, service Zhong whenever he asked, and the other girls would be simmering in envy. It's just too bad that it didn't last very long, but nothing lasts forever."

"So you don't actively cause anything to generate Rinki. You just let it happen and collect the energy," Nagata concluded.

"I don't like to work, so I use this form so men can fight over me. Men rarely resist a woman if she's beautiful. Makes life very easy, don't you think?"

'That's pretty lazy...' noted Nagata mentally. "So you just live off your looks?"

"Like I said, I don't like working," she repeated for emphasis. "Even collecting Rinki is too much of a hassle, but I still gotta do it. As long as I fill my minimum quota, the Femme Fatales would leave me alone."

"That sounds devious," Nagata remarked disapprovingly.

"I don't have a choice. It's in my nature."

"Rinki isn't just a power source. It's something you need in order to live."

"I'm a walking corpse. How do you think I got that way?" she asked rhetorically.

"Who were you when you were alive?" he asked.

"Centuries ago, I was the Emperor's concubine and bodyguard," Nanamomo answered. "You know how it is. My job was to comfort him and keep him safe. It was a pretty sweet job."

"But then you died," Nagata concluded.

"Yeah, killed by another jealous concubine. She poisoned me then hid my body in a well," Nanamomo answered. "I wasn't even dead yet when she put me in that well, so I pretty much drowned."

"That must've been horrible," Nagata sympathized.

Nanamomo shrugged. "It was all in the past. Fate just dealt me a bad hand. Of course, then I was revived and brought back as a Rinrinshi. I was just lucky I remembered how I used to be human."

"You were brought back as a Rinrinshi? You were never a Rinshi?"

"The Emperor insisted that all of his concubines were to be trained in order to protect him. I just picked to study the JyuKen. Since I did, and I was particularly good at it, I changed into a Rinrinshi when I revived instead of a Rinshi. No Chamber of Trials for me."

"What is the RinJyuKen gathering Rinki for? And what do they plan to use the Seal of Heaven for?"

Nanamomo lost the coy look in her eyes as she gave Nagata a sharp and intense gaze.

"To revive Dai Shi-sama," she warned him gravely.

"Dai Shi...?" Nagata questioned. Why did that name fill him with such dread? While it translated to 'Great Death', it really shouldn't have affected him like that.

"Dai Shi, the one who started it all. The founder of the RinJyuKen Akugata. The one who taught the Kenma how to turn their Geki into Rinki. Centuries ago, he fell in battle. However, according to a prophecy, he would one day return. The Femme Fatales have been working towards his revival, gathering a huge abundance of Rinki in order to do so. They did not think anyone would be able to oppose them. But then you all showed up, the Armored War Gods as foretold by the Celestial Chronicles. We were not prepared for that at all. I was actually amazed that there was even anyone who could stand up to us."

"Someone has to stop the RinJyuKen," Nagata justified. That was why they all decided to come back and stay. If they allowed the RinJyuKen Akugata to do as they pleased and run amok, this world would fall into an endless age of darkness and despair that could affect the future.

And if they revived their true leader, who was likely the strongest of them all, then their victory could be assured. And if the RinJyuKen were victorious, innocent people would suffer.

Nagata could not allow that to happen.

"You know, I came during the Harvest Festival," Nanamomo informed him.

"You did?" Nagata asked, surprised.

She answered, "I love festivals. There may not be a lot of negative emotions floating around, but it was fun. What, didn't expect a Rinrinshi to enjoy festivals?"

"No, actually." He honestly couldn't imagine any Rinrinshi being a fan of festivals. Well, maybe Halloween. They were scary enough for it, in his opinion.

"Let me guess. You expected me to prefer a cemetery, right?" she inquired.

"Well..." The thought had come to mind. They were zombies, right? It made senses for a graveyard to be their usual hangout. Although, now that he thought about it, that sounded like a rather rude stereotype.

"Cemeteries are way too depressing for me. I prefer to enjoy my un-life instead of being reminded of it."

"Fair point," Nagata agreed.

"You know, I watched you perform on stage. You're a pretty good singer," Nanamomo complimented him.

"You saw that?"

"Well, I heard the Chou Sisters were going to be there. I'm a huge fan, actually. Didn't know you and the other Armored War Gods were going to be the opening act."

"I was talked into it actually," Nagata replied. Marcus had been quite persuasive and had somehow convinced him to perform on stage with the others. He had been reluctant, but he did not regret doing it. It had been fun.

"Well, it was a great show nonetheless. Hard to believe that was your first time performing."

"Actually, it wasn't. I once performed in a play when I was a kid," admitted Nagata.

"Oh, what kind of play?" she asked.

"...That's not important. We're getting off track." He still had questions to ask her.

He still had questions to ask her.

"OK, so what else do you need to know?"

"What were you running from?" Nagata finally asked out of concern. He needed to know if any of them were in any real danger.

As soon as he asked that question, Nanamomo's entire demeanor changed. She paled as her form flickered, looking unstable. She involuntarily shifted into her Rinrinshi form before changing back to her human form, and then back and forth she went before her form stabilized and settled on her human disguise.

She hugged herself and trembled. She looked completely vulnerable, alarmed and frightened. No, not just frightened. She was terrified. For the first time, he saw her as only a woman needing help instead of the undead creature she actually was.

"A...demon..." she answered, trembling in fear.

"A demon?" he repeated.

"A demon...with lots of big teeth...and tentacles..." she described.

Nagata's eyes widened. A terrifying demon with huge teeth and tentacles? Now he was genuinely creeped out.

"The demon came out of nowhere. When it saw me, it knew what I was. I didn't stick around to find out what it wanted me for. I just knew I had to get out of there. So I ran. It followed me, but it wasn't chasing me. It was like it enjoyed watching me run in fear of it. I didn't look back to see if it was still after me. Even if I couldn't see it, I knew it would be there, waiting for me. That's why I came here. I knew you would be able to help me," Nanamomo explained.

Normally, Nagata would not turn away someone who was in danger. However, Nanamomo was a Rinrinshi. She was the enemy. Her kind had been trying to cause humanity to fall into misery and despair, killing them bit by bit. Their goal was to revive their master and take over the world.

But then, Nagata looked at Nanamomo. She was pleading with him, desperately begging him for his help.

She needed help and Nagata Oda did not turn away anyone who needed his help.

"We'll protect you," Nagata promised.

"Huh?" Nanamomo asked.

"I swear. We're going to protect you," Nagata vowed.

"But why would you?" she asked. She had come to Armored War God Gaim's territory to ask for their protection, she just did not expect to get any, at least not so easily.

"Because you asked for help," Nagata answered. It was just that easy.

"But we're supposed to be enemies, aren't we?"

"We don't have to be. To be honest, I always believed that you all were evil. I'm a bit ashamed of that now, but I'm glad I was wrong. It gives me hope that we can perhaps coexist and become friends."

"Friends..." Nanamomo murmured. "You really think we could be friends?"

"I know we can be friends if we try," Nagata smiled. Nanamomo blushed a bit as he smiled at her and hid her face with her sleeve. She closed the bento box, having finished the food, and handed it back.

"Thank you for the food. It was delicious."

"I'll make you more if you'd like."

"...Thank you."

"Just one last question before I go. Can you tell me the exact location of the RinJyuKen Akugata's headquarters?" Nagata asked.

Nanamomo smile fell before she offered, "If I tell you it's location, I will be marked as a traitor. I've already told you too much."

Nagata reminded, "In your desperation, you came to us instead of your own group. You came to us because you believe we can protect you. If you want our help you need to give us something that we can use. You owe us that much."

Nanamomo looked down to the floor thoughtfully. After a few moments of pondering, she looked up and said to him, "If you manage to protect me from this demon, then I'll tell you where to find the RinJyuKen Akugata."

"Is that a promise?" Nagata asked hopefully.

"You have my word. Please, just don't let it get me."

Nagata considered the deal. There was a chance that Nanamomo might be lying to him and would back out of the deal as soon as he and his friend fulfilled their side of the bargain. However, there was something that compelled him to trust Nanamomo. She had not been dishonest during the interrogation. Her claims might need to be checked for their authenticity but she had been sincere since the beginning. It was like she was too lazy to come up with any lies at all.

"Alright, it's a deal. We'll do whatever we can to keep you safe," Nagata vowed.

"Thank you. When you come back, do you mind bringing me some more food?" Nanamomo replied.

"I'll bring you a bowl of katsudon. It's really good. All my friends love it," Nagata stated. "I'll even throw in some egg rolls."

"That sounds lovely."

"I'll see you later then." Nagata bowed to Nanamomo and left the room. This left Nanamomo alone with Kada and her thoughts. The doctor had been watching the entire interrogation, never saying a word, but he was intrigued by what had happened. He smiled.

"Nagata-sama, you are truly something else," he said.


"You promised to do what!?" Iori and Karasu yelled simultaneously.

"I promised we would protect her," Nagata repeated. The Shoku Warriors were once again gathered at the Round Table. Truth be told, they were shocked by what they had just heard.

"Why would you even promise to do such a thing?" asked Karasu. "She's the enemy!"

"Idunn-sama is correct, Nagata-sama. The RinJyuKen Akugata are our enemy. Why make such a promise to one of them?" Kanu asked.

"Because she knows the location of the RinJyuKen Akugata, their exact location. We won't have to waste time looking everywhere for it. However, she'll only give it to us if we protect her," Nagata answered.

"You could've forced her to tell you," Karasu suggested.

"I can't do that, Kara-chan. Besides, she says she's being hunted and that she needs our help," Nagata answered.

"Then you should've just sent her away," Iori coldly suggested. "We don't need whatever's hunting her knocking at our door. We have enough trouble from our enemies without adding more to the mix."

"You didn't see how scared she was. I know Rinrinshi are capable of deceit, but the fear I saw was real, and whatever she's afraid of is coming. It's a threat we need to deal with, and we'll deal with it together," he told Iori.

"So in exchange for information, you granted her asylum," Karasu concluded.

"She needs help and so I can't turn her away. Besides, we still managed to get a lot of useful information out of her," Nagata said.

Karasu gave her cousin a cold accusing look. "Naga-kun, are you sure you didn't just make that promise just because she happens to look very beautiful in human form?"

Everyone looked at Nagata expectantly for his answer. His eyes darted left and right as everyone stared at him, waiting for an answer. Nagata gulped nervously but composed himself.

"No, I didn't promise to protect her because of her appearance. I made that promise because she looks like she's in trouble and needs our help. I'm not about to turn my back on someone who needs help just because she's different," he stated confidently.

Iori quipped, "Did you rehearse that speech?"

Nagata did not appreciate the tone. "I'm serious. She needs help. That's all the reason I need."

"Dai Shi..." Komei murmured. "That was the name she mentioned?"

"Yeah, it was," Nagata confirmed. "She says Dai Shi founded the RinJyuKen Akugata but he died a long time ago. The Femme Fatales are trying to revive him, using the Rinki they've been gathering."

"So they're trying to bring back their leader..." Chou'un frowned.

"That doesn't sound good," Bacho added.

"Relax, everyone! Nagata-niichan will be able to beat this Dai Shi guy!" insisted Chouhi optimistically.

"Actually, I was thinking that maybe we can end all this without fighting. Maybe we can try to make peace with them," Nagata said.

Everyone was silent. They stared back at him as he waited for their response. He did not expect them to obey his orders absolutely, not without good reason. They did have good reason to question him right now.

"...Are you serious?" Iori asked in disbelief. "After everything that has happened, after everything they've done, you want to make peace with them?"

"I spoke with Nanamomo. She doesn't want to hurt anyone. There's a possibility not all the Rinrinshi agree with the current situation either. If we can reason with those like her in the RinJyuKen Akugata, maybe even get them on our side, then we can stop this war for good," Nagata answered.

"I think that..." started Ryuubi. "I think Nagata-sama might have the right idea here."

"Aneue..." Kanu responded.

"We've been fighting the RinJyuKen for a couple of years now, but it still isn't over. How long will this continue? Perhaps it doesn't make sense, but maybe we could make peace with the RinJyuKen, help dissenters like Nanamomo-san take their place in order to avoid a war," Ryuubi said.

"These aren't people, Touka. They're monsters," argued Iori before he addressed Nagata, "What you're proposing won't work."

"Airen, I think I have to agree with Nagata-sama," Kochu spoke up, surprising her husband.

"Koi, these monsters can't be reasoned with. They're pure evil and desire nothing more than our utter annihilation," argued Iori.

"I don't want Riri to think that violence is always the answer. We should strive for more peaceful solutions," Kochu replied.

"Koi..." Iori softly responded.

"We need to stop the fighting somehow," Kochu urged.

Nagata concurred, "I really think it's time for a diplomatic approach. We've been fighting and fighting and what do we have to show for it? So many people have died already, Iori. If there's a chance we can end this without any more casualties, I'm willing to take it. I just ask that you give me your support. All of you."

The Shoku Warriors quietly looked to each other uncertainly, but it was Kanu who broke the silence.

"I'll stand with whatever decision Nagata-sama makes," swore Kanu loyally.

"Me too!" Chouhi agreed.

"You have my support as well, Nagata-sama," Ryuubi beamed.

"I'll draw up plans for the negotiation," Komei volunteered.

"Are we seriously considering this?" asked Bacho.

"Sounds interesting," Chou'un smirked.

Ryofu simply smiled and gave a nod.

"It's time we ended all this fighting," said Kochu as she looked to her husband. "What about you, Airen?"

"I still don't think it's entirely possible, but crazier things have happened. Alright, I'm backing you up on this. But remember, Nagata. If anything goes wrong, it will be on your head," Iori warned.

Karasu took a deep breath, looked at Nagata, and said, "Alright, I'll help too. Honestly, this is a crazy idea, but I'm willing to do this for you, not for that creature."

"Her name's Nanamomo," Nagata corrected.

"Whatever, I don't care," Karasu shrugged.

"Thank you, everyone," Nagata smiled gratefully.

"OK, so now that we've agreed to try and make peace with the RinJyuKen Akugata, let's talk about what's hunting down our guest. Did she say what exactly we'll be dealing with here?" Iori asked.

"I wasn't able to get much out of her. She only mentioned it being a demon with tentacles," said Nagata.

"Tentacles? Really?" Iori had not expected that and did not like the sound of it.

"Yes, tentacles," Nagata confirmed and the girls shivered at the mention of tentacles. It just sounded so wrong. "With teeth. Lots of sharp teeth and tentacles."

"Well, I guess we have our work cut out for us then, huh?" Batai asked, trying to lift the mood.

"Why are tentacles so bad?" Chouhi asked.

"Rinrin, you don't want to know." Komei shook her head. Nagata looked suspiciously at his strategist, wondering what she had read. He would need to have to talk with her again about her choice of reading material.


KRC: MERRY CHRISTMAS! Nanamomo once more makes an appearance, and it's a major one. Something is after her, and it's a relentless predator. What is it and what does it want with her? Also, we find out a little more about the RinJyuKen Akugata. Anyway, please read, review, follow and fave for more content. Oh, and don't forget to check out my Romance in the Shoku Kingdom side story.

TFP: Well, we see the capricious Nanamomo again, but now it seems things have gone downhill for her. A new demon stalks the lands and I think we can all guess who or what it is. Nagata's given his vow to protect Nanamomo from it, but from how she is reacting it's not going to be an easy fight. Still, if it pulls through, will this be the beginning of the end for the RinJyuKen Akugata?


Nanamomo was lying on the bed in Kada's clinic, just minding her own business and chilling out. It felt nice just to lounge around and relax. She was technically a prisoner, but the accommodations weren't all that bad. She even got good food courtesy of Nagata Oda himself.

And he promised to protect her. Now she could finally relax.

Suddenly, her eyes popped wide open as her skin turned as pale as her true appearance and cold sweat beaded on her body. The calmness she had was now replaced by absolute terror as she began to panic.

"No...He's found me..."

Kada looked to her. "Excuse me?"

"He's found me!" she yelled as she jumped out of bed and pounded on the barrier frantically. "HE'S FOUND ME! LET ME OUT! LET ME OUT! HE'S COMING FOR ME!"

"Relax, Miss. You're perfectly safe!" Kada insisted, trying to calm her down.

"YOU DON'T UNDERSTAND! HE'LL KILL US ALL! YOU NEED TO LET ME OUT! LET ME OUT! I NEED TO GET OUT OF HERE!" Nanamomo screamed hysterically.

"Oh dear," Kada frowned. He needed to call Nagata and the others. This sounded urgent.


AWG CHIBI #10A: MERRY CHRISTMAS IN SHOKU

"Have you noticed that Nagata-sama and Iori-sama have been acting odd lately?" Kanu asked Ryuubi.

"Now that you mentioned it, I saw him the other day speaking with the maids. When I approached them, they immediately went silent and Nagata-sama made an excuse that he needed to leave," Ryuubi recalled.

"This sounds suspicious," Gien frowned.

"Enya-chan, I'm sure Nagata-sama has his reasons," Ryuubi defended.

"But it still sounds suspicious," insisted Gien.

A maid then approached them. "Kanu-sama, Gien-sama, Ryuubi-sama, you have been summoned to the throne room."


The officers of the Shoku Faction were gathered in front of the throne room's doors. The doors opened to let them inside and their eyes widened as they saw a banner hanging from the ceiling.

"MERRY CHRISTMAS!" Iori and Nagata cheered. The girls were shocked and confused.

"Christmas?" echoed Ryuubi and Kanu.

"Come inside. We're having a party for you girls," Nagata invited. The throne room had been decorated and there was a table covered with food and drinks.

"Nagata-sama, what is all this?" Kanu asked.

"It's a holiday from our homeworld," Nagata answered.

"Once a year, we come together with friends and family to celebrate Christmas. It's a day to celebrate peace and show generosity towards each other," Iori explained.

"Speaking of which..." Nagata went over to the pile of presents and took a couple of boxes which he handed over to Ryuubi and Kanu. "These are for you."

Kanu opened her box and she saw a beautiful pair of jade earrings. Ryuubi's box contained paper talismans, but these were the special musical paper talismans which contained the Chou Sisters' songs. It was an entire collection.

"Nagata-sama, these are lovely!" gasped Kanu.

"And these are all the Chou Sisters' songs!" Ryuubi exclaimed.

"Merry Christmas, girls," Nagata winked.

"This is for you." Iori held a box to Kochu and she opened it to reveal a beautiful necklace. He also gave Riri a new doll which she loved.

The other girls received presents as well. Batai got a new pair of ornamental daggers, Bacho received a cool good luck charm, Chouhi received a miniature tiger figurine, Komei received a new book and Gien herself received a dakimakura with Ryuubi's image on it.

"It's so you can hold her as you sleep," Iori whispered to Gien cheekily as the two-toned haired girl blushed in embarrassment but she loved the gift nonetheless.

Ryofu and Chinkyuu weren't excluded either as they also received their own gifts. Ryofu received a new brush she could use to brush her pet's fur. Chinkyuu received a new coat since hers was looking rather worn out.

"Merry Christmas, Kara-chan," Nagata said as he gave her a new scabbard.

"Oh, Naga-kun," Karasu smiled as she accepted the brand new scabbard for her sword. "This is so sweet. Thank you."

"Well, your old scabbard just seems to need replacing," he replied.

Smiling happily, she kissed her cousin on the cheek.


Iori and Nagata both watched the snow fall as they stood on the balcony. They had done a lot of preparations and spent a lot of money on those gifts. They even gave the soldiers a bonus in their salary.

"How does it feel?" Iori asked.

"Worth it," smiled Nagata.

"It does feel good to give back to our friends after everything they've done for us," grinned Iori.

"It sure does. We should do this next year too," Nagata suggested.

"Let's make it a tradition. Now, let's go back in. The party's still going on."


AWG CHIBI OMAKE #10B: EATING CONTEST

"Alright, everyone! Let's begin today's eating contest! As usual, we have Chouhi, Bacho, and Ryofu!" Batai said as she introduced the competitors. "And we have a new contender: Nanamomo!"

Chouhi, Bacho, Ryofu and Nanamomo sat down at the table.

"And today they will each attempt to finish 100 fried rice balls!" Batai announced.

The plates of fried rice balls were served up, the food items piled up high in front of each of them.

"And go!" Batai announced.

"Done," Nanamomo revealed her empty plate. The other competitors gawked at her. The contest had just started and she was already finished? How was that possible?

"Wait, what? How!?" Bacho exclaimed.

"So fast!" Chouhi was amazed.

"Looks like we have a winner! It's Nanamomo!" declared Batai.

"Congratulations." Ryofu shook Nanamomo's hand.

"Thank you," Nanamomo accepted.


AWG CHIBI OMAKE #10C: THE ONE WITH THE OSTRICH

"We're lost!"

"We're not lost!"

"Alright, then where are we?"

"Not where we're going, that's for sure!"

"Well, that clears it up! We're lost!"

Kayu watched with a bored expression as her two traveling buddies, Hideyoshi and Kenshin, argued back and forth. Kenshin, who was holding the map, insisted they weren't lost. Hideyoshi claimed otherwise.

They weren't going anywhere if these two kept arguing.

Kayu lost patience and yelled, "You two, stop arguing! Gridon, you help me set up camp! It's already getting dark! Kurokage, you try to figure out where the hell we are!"

Kayu dragged Hideyoshi away.

"Make sure there are no monkeys!" Kenshin yelled. He looked at the map while mumbling, "Damn monkey. Furry freaks with hands for feet. Unnatural."

He lowered his map and saw a couple of girls taking the path. They were pretty cute looking and he smiled.

Maybe he did need to ask for directions, but he would have to do it without sounding desperate. He pocketed the map after folding it, half of it sticking out of his pocket as he approached the ladies.

"Hello, ladies," he greeted, trying to be suave. "Mind helping a guy out? I think I'm a little lost, so could you tell me how to get to the closest town?"

He reached for the map but found his pocket empty. "The hell?" That was when he turned and found himself looking straight at an ostrich who was looking back at him.

It was also holding his map in its beak.

"My map!" Kenshin shouted.

The ostrich suddenly took off with the map.

"Hey! Get back here!" Kenshin yelled as he chased after the ostrich. It didn't manage to get far as he caught up to it, leaped on its back, and grabbed its neck.

"Give it up! I said give it up! Spit it out!" Kenshin demanded loudly as he tried to wring the ostrich's neck, but it was a lot tougher than he thought. He reached for the map while holding tight as the ostrich tried to shake him off. The ostrich finally managed to throw him, tossing him on his ass before it fled. Kenshin could do nothing but sit in the dirt and watch as the ostrich disappeared into the distance.

Kenshin screamed at the fleeing ostrich, "Damn you, big bird! When I find you again, I'm going to cook you up like fried chicken and have you for dinner! Do you hear me!?" Of course, the ostrich had already run too far to hear him and he could only mutter in frustration, "They're so not going to believe this."

At that moment, Hideyoshi and Kayu showed up again.

"There you are," Kayu said.

"We just set up camp nearby. Hey, where's the map?" Hideyoshi said.

"An ostrich took it!" Kenshin claimed.

He was right.

Neither of them believed him to this day.

*In Gkoh's "Hunt of the Armored War Gods" story, Kenshin claimed an ostrich stole their map. This is how I pictured it happening.