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: This arc will be dedicated to D-Generation XX for his helpful criticism.


Before Sonsaku's death, she and Masataka once had a conversation in front of the portrait of Sonken Bundai, the late mother of Sonsaku, Sonken, and Sonshoko.

Masataka had not met Sonken Bundai personally, as she had died long before his arrival, but from the looks of it, Sonsaku, Sonken, and Sonshoko definitely inherited their beauty from her. Sonshoko was still a child in comparison, but she would definitely grow into her looks and become as beautiful as her older sisters. She had good genes after all.

Sonken Bundai had the same skin tone and hair color as her daughters, wearing an outfit that was quite revealing. Well, when you got it, you flaunt it. She definitely had the looks to qualify her as a MILF, not that Masataka would ever say that out loud.

Sonken Bundai had died in battle, leaving her daughter Sonsaku to inherit the throne of Son Go. Sonsaku did not just inherit the throne, but also her late mother's ambition.

Sonsaku and Masataka's conversation took place not long after the Fall of Rakuyo. During the final battle against Chojo, the Alliance had witnessed the appearance of the Seal of Heaven as it granted Gridon its power before it vanished.

They were talking about the Seal of Heaven when Sonsaku changed the subject.

"We have so many enemies," Sonsaku mused. "The RinJyuKen Akugata, the Armored War Devils, and whoever else that might be plotting against me."

She recalled how her own aunt, Sonsei, had attempted to assassinate her. She expected some of her vassals might attempt a coup d'état, but she had not expected her aunt to be part of the conspiracy.

It was actually Choshi Shifu, one of the conspirators and the apparent ringleader, who had revealed to Sonsaku about the plot to assassinate her. In truth, he had only pretended to be on the traitors' side to gather evidence and was allied to Sonsaku the entire time.

Sonsei's betrayal was painful and Sonsaku was forced to sentence her aunt to death for treason. It needed to be done, to set an example and to discourage any future betrayals. Sonsei's co-conspirators managed to get away, but as they had fled into Helheim Forest their fate was already sealed.

Sonsaku knew that she was often criticized for her campaign to unite the nation. Her hands were stained with blood from each battle she fought in. She managed to expand Son Go's territory, but it also meant making a lot of enemies along the way. Fortunately, she still had people she could trust within her own faction. Sonsaku just hoped that there was nobody else within Son Go plotting to betray her. She really did not want to put someone she loved to death like her aunt.

Masataka himself had to work hard to earn the trust of the Go Faction. He may have saved Sonsaku and Shuyu's life, but his timely arrival was met with suspicion. It just seemed too convenient for him to just appear when Sonsaku and Shuyu were in danger. He had to prove himself to them, and all his effort paid off. Now, he was one of Sonsaku's most trusted advisors, next to Shuyu. He did have her to thank for mentoring him.

Masataka had introduced the Lockseeds to Son Go, which helped in increasing their economy and military power. It made Son Go a fierce force to be reckoned with. He also revealed the existence of Helheim Forest to Sonsaku and Shuyu, sharing with them the forest's dark secret after he discovered it.

The sight of the ruins of a long-dead civilization haunted Sonsaku. It served as a warning and reminder for her. One must be careful when obtaining power. Trying to claim a power beyond one's comprehension could only lead to ruin. The power would only consume the one attempting to covet it and then everyone else would suffer for that person's recklessness and greed.

As Sonsaku trusted Masataka, she was not afraid to confide in him.

"Masataka-kun, you care about my sisters, do you not?" Sonsaku asked.

"You know the answer to that, Sheren-sama. They're important to me," Masataka answered.

Sonsaku smiled at how earnest he was. She had seen it herself how much he cared about her sisters. She also saw how much Sonken and Masataka loved each other and Sonshoko looked up to Masataka like an older brother.

He would do anything to protect them.

"If anything were to happen to me, I want you to look after Renfa and Shaoren," Sonsaku requested.

Masataka blinked at her request.

"Sheren-sama, what are you saying?" Masataka asked. Sonsaku sounded like she was foretelling her own death.

"Oh, you know, after I'm done, I'm going to abdicate my throne to Renfa so she can rule in my place. I do plan to retire with Meirin and live the rest of our lives in peace," Sonsaku answered with a whimsical smile.

Masataka was not buying that. Sonsaku might put on a facade of an easygoing woman, but she was more than just a pretty face. She was intelligent and she planned ahead for any event.

She might tease him from time-to-time, but even he could see right through her words.

"Sheren-sama, please be serious."

Sonsaku sighed. There was no fooling her Ultimate Shield.

"I have made many enemies, Masataka-kun. When I'm gone and Renfa takes the throne, they might plot against her as well. They might even assassinate her when they can't use her so they can put Shaoren on the throne and manipulate her, using her as a puppet ruler," Sonsaku explained.

True enough. How many child rulers were simply figureheads with others ruling behind the scenes? Chojo had done that with Totaku, using her influence to take control of the capital and using Totaku as a scapegoat.

"I won't let that happen," Masataka swore. There's no way he would allow anyone to manipulate his fiancée and her little sister. If there was anyone trying to plot against the royal family, Masataka would expose them with Kannei, Shuutai, and Shuyu.

Sonsaku smiled at Masataka's dedication. She had such trusted advisors who would never scheme on stabbing her in the back. But, it paid to be cautious and to have contingency plans just in case.

"And that's why I know I can trust you. Even when I'm gone, you'll be around to look after them."

Masataka did not like where this conversation was going. The subject was too upsetting. Oh, he knew that Sonsaku died in battle, it was in the history books. Now that he was here, he could prevent her death. She did not have to die.

However, at this point in time, he did not know that he would fail.

How could she say such things so easily? This was not a joke.

And if it was a joke, it was not funny at all.

"Don't say such things, Sheren-sama. You're not going to die yet."

Sonsaku cocked an eyebrow. Masataka was so upset that he was in denial.

"Won't I? I'm always going to war, always conquering to expand our territory. I was also betrayed by my own aunt and vassals. We have so many enemies, some that pretend to be our allies. At any time I may fall on the battlefield or be assassinated in my own home."

She did not know this at the time, but she would be killed by an assassin who wore the appearance of an ally.

"But-"

"I'm not immortal, Masataka-kun. I might be powerful, but like any mortal, I can still die."

Masataka wanted to argue, but she was right. Life and death were not matters to take lightly. With how she lived, the chances of dying were high. He might not be able to save her, no matter how hard he tried.

So, if he could not save her, then the best thing he could do was honor her request.

"I understand. I'll do what you ask."

Sonsaku smiled. To be honest, she did not really need to ask him to protect Sonken and Sonshoko. He would do it of his own free will.

He was Son Go's Ultimate Shield, and he would protect the royal family without any doubt.

But, there were many ways to protect the royal family line...and Sonsaku smiled mischievously.

"Good, because I have yet another request for you."

"Oh?"

"I have this idea of you becoming our kingdom's stud horse."

Masataka's glasses nearly fell off his face in shock.

"Excuse me!?"

He had not expected Sonsaku to suggest that!

"Oh, yes. I had this idea of introducing your bloodline into Son Go."

"But I'm already betrothed to Renfa-sama!" Masataka protested, flustered.

Sonsaku's grin only widened.

"Yes, but I think you could also have children with the others. I know that Minmei would happily bear your children."

Masataka's cheeks darkened in embarrassment.

"Shuutai's my bodyguard! It would not be appropriate! And I'm engaged to your sister!"

Sonsaku loved teasing Masataka and started to laugh. That was when he realized she was messing with him. He took a deep breath and regained his composure to give her a deadpan look.

"Sheren-sama, are you messing with me again?" he questioned, not appreciating the joke at all.

"Oh, you're just so much fun to tease," Sonsaku giggled as she gently patted his cheek. "But no, I'm being serious right now. Non and Sai are obviously out of the question since they've fallen for Kamuro-kun and Mars-kun, but I don't think the others will mind bearing your children. You may even take Shaoren as a second wife once she comes of age."

Was Sonsaku seriously trying to set him up with a harem, even getting her youngest sister involved? The idea just made Masataka feel ill. Sonshoko was like a little sister to him.

"And Shuyu-dono?"

"Well, I always wanted to have a child I could raise with her. I just need you to offer your seed for it. We could each bear your children."

A long time ago, if Sonsaku had asked him to help her conceive a child, Masataka would be willing. But a lot had changed since the time he had a crush on Sonsaku. He realized it was just infatuation and any affection he had for Sonsaku was familial. She was like a big sister to him.

He was in love with Sonken and faithful to her. There was no way he would cheat on her, no matter how tempting it was. After all, Sonsaku and Shuyu were very attractive. To sleep with two beautiful women as part of a threesome would be quite an accomplishment.

But Masataka would not risk his relationship with Sonken and Sonsaku knew this. She just loved to see him get all flustered and embarrassed for kicks.

Masataka's eyes narrowed as he gave Sonsaku a glare.

"I'm telling this to Renfa-sama and Shuyu-dono," Masataka forewarned her before he turned and walked off.

Sonsaku realized she might've gone a bit too far. Shuyu and Sonken could get pretty mad and Sonsaku really did not want to experience their legendary wrath.

"Wait, Masataka-kun! I was only kidding!" Sonsaku cried as she gave chase, but he sped up his strides to maintain his distance. "Masataka-kun, wait! I was just joking!"

Masataka smiled as he walked out of Sonsaku's reach, turning his walk into a jog. He was not really going to tell Shuyu or Sonken, but he wanted to pay Sonsaku back for her joke by making her sweat a little.


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

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

Beta Reader/Editor: Busterleader92

Chapter 26: The Tiger Festival


Masataka drove his Sakura Hurricane with Shuutai riding behind him, her arms wrapped around his waist so she would not fall off. Actually, that was an excuse. She just wanted a reason to put her arms around him without feeling awkward. They were sent by Sonken to inspect one of the nearby towns. She had received reports of some suspicious activity taking place there that required investigation. As Son Go's Ultimate Shield, part of Masataka's job was to check on the kingdom's security.

Natsu and Fuyu were left back at the capital in case their enemies decided to attack in Masataka's absence. The Fuma Twins should be able to hold off any attack that came their way. They had fluid teamwork that made them a formidable fighting force. Also, the guards were well-trained in the use of the Lockvehicles so Masataka had nothing to worry about.

As a precaution, Masataka had on his SengokuDriver. He had been ambushed before so he did not want to be caught unawares again. He also had Shuutai to watch his back.

His bodyguard was still wearing the ribbon he had gifted her and had her hair up in a ponytail. It was quite adorable.

The Sakura Hurricane was much faster than a horse, so they could visit the town and then be back at the palace within a day. As they neared their destination, Shuutai spotted something in the distance.

"Zangetsu-sama, look," Shuutai pointed and he did. There were pillars of smoke rising into the sky from the distance. Masataka frowned grimly when he saw it was in the same direction as the town.

"That's not a good sign," Masataka remarked. "Come on. Let's go in for a closer look."

Masataka revved up the Sakura Hurricane's engine and sped up, heading toward the smoke.

Masataka and Shuutai arrived at the town and took off their helmets as they dismounted the bike. The sight that welcomed them was eerie. The town looked deserted with Helheim vines crawling all over every inch of it with the deadly yet delectable fruit hanging from the vines. A few buildings were still on fire, which explained the smoke they saw earlier.

They were too late.

"Do you think bandits did this?" Shuutai asked, horrified by the sight but still able to maintain a calm facade.

Bandits had gotten their hands on the Lockseeds to summon Inves, not even bothering to close the portals after they called out the creatures. Open Helheim portals were a huge risk when left unchecked. Wild Inves could enter this world and spread the Helheim plants which bore their deadly fruit. The plants would spread like an infection before becoming an epidemic.

The fruit was irresistible. The Drivers prevented the Armored War Gods from being entrapped by the fruit's allure, but normal people needed to have strong willpower to resist the fruit. It also helped to wear a perfume-soaked scarf to mask the scent of the fruit. It was what the workers in the Lockseed Distribution Department used when they gathered the Fruits of Helheim.

Masataka looked around. If bandits had used Inves to attack this town, then they were long gone. But Masataka did notice something.

Where were the bodies? If bandits had attacked this town, the ground should be littered with bodies and stained with blood.

Bandits were not known to be merciful. Their raids often led to the death of innocents and any survivors that were left would be scarred and traumatized. Could the bandits have taken everyone in town? Bandits would take prisoners during their raids. Young girls that were kidnapped could be sold as slaves or used for entertainment and children could be held for ransom. Young men could be forcibly recruited and coerced to join the bandits. The adults could be taken to be used as slave laborers, forced to serve the bandits. That left only the elderly who held no value to the bandits so they would just be disposed of.

The townspeople could've been killed in their homes. That would account for the absence of bodies in the streets. Some bandits preferred to sneak into towns under the cover of night while the townspeople were asleep before they broke into their homes.

Masataka decided they should look for clues to find out what really happened here.

Masataka chose a random house and opened the door. He stood still as he spotted a couple of Berserker State Inves, a Yagi and Komori, crouched over a bunch of Helheim Fruits. When they heard the door open, they immediately became aggressive.

Wild Inves were very protective of their food source. Seeing anything or anyone trying to steal their precious fruit would cause them to attack.

Masataka quickly retreated and slammed the door, but the Inves broke through it. He avoided their initial attacks as he took out his signature Melon Lockseed.

[MELON! LOCK ON!]

Masataka locked the Melon Lockseed into his SengokuDriver and gripped the Cutting Blade.

"Henshin!"

He pushed down the Cutting Blade, which sliced open the front of the Melon Lockseed, exposing the core and a depiction of his Arms Weapon. A rainbow-colored image of his Melon Defender popped out in front of his belt.

[SOIYA!]

The Melon Armor Part dropped on Masataka's head and his white Ride Wear bodysuit materialized. The Armor Part disassembled, revealing his helmet, and folded onto his body to form his armor.

[MELON ARMS! TENKA GOMEN!]

His signature Melon Defender appeared as he drew out his Musou Saber.

Masataka Miyamoto had transformed into Armored War God Zangetsu.

As the two Inves lunged for Zangetsu, he bashed them away with his Melon Defender, knocking them to the ground. He then hit his SengokuDriver's Cutting Blade, pushing it down thrice over his Melon Lockseed.

[SOIYA! MELON SPARKING!]

Zangetsu swung his Musou Saber multiple times, delivering a series of green energy slashes. The two Inves were overwhelmed by the attack and were obliterated.

Zangetsu lowered his weapon.

"Zangetsu-sama!" Shuutai cried in alarm as she ran over to him.

"There are Inves here," he told her. Shuutai knew that tone. She knew that Inves could not be left unchecked and needed to be eliminated. An infestation this big also needed to be dealt with to stop it from spreading. She knew what that would entail.

The door of another house opened and they readied themselves in case it was another Inves or a horde of them. What neither of them expected to see was a little girl, no older than nine, come stumbling out of her vine-infested home. She looked hurt judging by the cuts on her clothes and the bits of blood Shuutai and Zangetsu could see. The little girl fell on her hands and knees, coughing.

Zangetsu could not believe it. There was a survivor. Shuutai, unable to watch a child suffer before her eyes, quickly went to check to see if she was alright. As Shuutai approached, the little girl seemed to want to crawl away.

"Don't be scared. We're here to help," Shuutai told the little girl as she knelt down in front of her. She was sympathetic. The child had survived a horrific experience and was likely an orphaned. Her parents were either killed or taken. They could've even abandoned her to save themselves, which was worse for the child.

The child looked up at Shuutai and the female warrior gasped at the sight of the child. She had green veins across her right cheek and her eyes were glowing bright red. Suddenly, the little girl shrieked like an animal and tackled Shuutai to the ground. The child's right hand morphed into a set of claws with green vines wrapped around her forearm.

Shuutai immediately threw the infected child off her, tossing her to the ground before rising to her feet. She backed away as the little girl-monster stood up and snarled before leaf-covered vines burst from her body. The flora receded moments later to reveal a child-sized Byakko Inves.

The child-sized Byakko Inves lunged at Shuutai who drew her sword to defend herself. Suddenly, Zangetsu put himself between the two and knocked the Inves away with his Melon Defender. The Byakko Inves threw its head back and roared before it went on the attack again, this time aiming for Zangetsu. He smelled like Lockseeds and the Inves wanted them.

Zangetsu never gave the Inves a chance as he fired his Musou Saber, hitting the Inves dead center in its skull, blowing a hole right through its brain. Shuutai watched in horror as the Inves collapsed as it died and reverted to human form. She trembled at the sight of the little girl who had a hole right in her forehead.

Shuutai was used to this, but even she was shaken by the sight of a child dying so meaninglessly. But it was not over yet. The Byakko Inves' roar had awoken the rest of the townspeople who stepped out of their homes. They too had been infected, judging from their red eyes and the vines growing on their bodies. Their hands had monstrous claws on them and their eyes no longer showed any signs of humanity. They were only filled with a deep hunger.

"Minmei, put this on," Zangetsu ordered as he handed his bodyguard his GenesisDriver. Shuutai did not question him as she took the Driver and placed it on her waist. The belt wrapped around her waist, securing the device. He then handed her his Melon Energy Lockseed. "And use this."

Shuutai took the Melon Energy Lockseed as Zangetsu lent it to her. She saw him take out his Baihu Lockseed and knew what he wanted her to do. He needed her help to take care of the infestation. None of the Inves here could be allowed to leave this place alive.

[BAIHU!]

[MELON ENERGY!]

No mercy.

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

[SODA! MELON ENERGY ARMS!]

It was time to purge this place.


Masataka and Shuutai rode back to the palace, his hands gripping the handlebars tightly. Shuutai was holding him tightly from behind, looking pale. Masataka and Shuutai stopped in front of the palace and dismounted the Sakura Hurricane. He shrunk the bike back to its Lockseed form before pocketing it.

"Minmei, I'm going to deliver my report to Sonken-sama. You should take the rest of the day off," Masataka advised her.

"Thank you, Zangetsu-sama." Maybe some time with her pet cat could help her soothe her nerves.

The pair entered the palace grounds and went up the steps that led up to the palace. They went their separate ways as Masataka headed for the throne room and Shuutai went back to her room. She needed a break and he had a report to deliver.

Sonken was sitting on her throne with Kannei and Ryomo standing beside her when Masataka arrived. He bowed before her. He might be an Armored War God and Sonken's fiancé, but even he needed to show proper respect to Son Go's ruler.

Sonken had sent Masataka to check on a nearby town. He had returned sooner than expected. What had happened?

Masataka stood straight, hands locked behind him, and his face set in an expression that betrayed no emotion. Sonken had seen that face before. He only looked like that when there was serious business to discuss.

"What do you have to report, Masataka-kun?" Sonken asked.

"Shuutai and I went to the town you sent us to check. At first, it appeared deserted. We initially believed that it might have been raided by bandits using Inves since we found an infestation of Helheim Forest vegetation. What we found was much worse."

Sonken looked concern. A bandit raid with Inves was bad enough, but how much worse could it be?

She was about to find out when Masataka continued.

"There were survivors. One of them was a little girl who appeared hurt. Shuutai went to help her and the child..." Masataka took a deep breath, still affected by the experience. He resumed delivering his report. "The child transformed into an Inves. I was forced to put her down when she attacked Shuutai. Then, the rest of the townspeople-all of them infected by the fruit-came out of their homes. Since they were hostile and we could not risk them spreading Helheim Forest infestation, Shuutai and I purged the entire town."

Sonken, Ryomo, and Kannei were shocked when they heard this.

"Sonken-sama, this was no accident. This was not the work of bandits carelessly playing around with Lockseeds. I believe the town was deliberately infected," Masataka concluded.


Masataka went to his office after delivering his report to Sonken. She was angered by the news. The last time Masataka ever saw his fiancée that upset was when he accidentally called out Sonsaku's name while they were making love. He felt ashamed of the memory, especially when she kicked him out of the room without his clothes. He had to walk back to his quarters while completely naked.

As humiliating as it was, it was behind him now, and Sonken forgave him once she cooled down. By then, the whole incident had spread throughout the palace through gossip. Even now, Natsu would occasionally poke fun at Masataka about the incident.

Fortunately, nobody had lost their respect for Masataka. It had just been a very bad day which he would much rather forget about. Masataka also wanted to forget about what happened at the town earlier, but he could not. The memory would stick with him forever.

After Shuutai and Masataka purged the town, he came to a conclusion that the infestation was deliberate. Bandits were foolish enough to leave portals open and cause an outbreak, but neither Masataka nor Shuutai found any open portals.

But why was the town infected? For what purpose? Was it to spread fear? It was an isolated incident, but somehow news about something like that could still spread. It had happened before. There was always a witness even if they did not identify themselves publicly.

Was the RinJyuKen Akugata behind this?

On Masataka's wall was a map of the entire nation. Territories were color-coded for each faction. The largest territories fell under Son Go (green), Sou Gi (red) and Shoku (blue). On the map were spots that were marked with an 'X'.

Masataka was plotting locations of RinJyuKen attacks with information he managed to gather. He was trying to pinpoint the location of their headquarters based on the pattern of their attacks. There had to be a source and if he found a pattern then it could lead them to their enemies' hideout.

While the RinJyuKen Akugata consistently attacked the capitals of the Three Kingdoms, they also attacked nearby settlements, villages, and towns, but rarely did they ever kill their victims. They needed people alive to harvest negative emotions, but they would still resort to murder if it could spread chaos and terror.

Sonsaku's death was an event that greatly benefited the RinJyuKen as it devastated the people of Son Go, especially the Go Faction. The grief coming from Son Go's people provided the evil organization with a huge source of Rinki. Framing Masataka accused of assassinating Sonsaku also gave the RinJyuKen plenty of anger and hatred to harvest so they could supplement their power.

Masataka removed his glasses and rubbed his eyes. Staring at the map all day was not getting him anywhere. He needed a break to clear his head. When he got back to this afterward, he might be able to think clearly.


Masataka visited Sonsaku's grave frequently. He was not the only one as he spotted Shuyu standing in front of it.

"You've been coming here every day," Masataka commented as he stood next to Shuyu in front of Sonsaku's grave. He was not surprised. Shuyu was not just Sonsaku's strategist but she was also her lover.

"I know. It's just that I can't forget about her," said Shuyu as she placed a hand upon the gravestone. Shuyu came to visit Sonsaku's grave each day without fail. Sometimes she would just stand silently in front of it, and other times she would speak to it as if she was speaking to Sonsaku herself. It was her way of coping with her loss.

"I think Sonsaku-sama would want you to move on and live your life," Masataka suggested. Sonsaku would want everyone she loved to be happy. It was why she worked so hard and carried such a heavy burden on her shoulders.

"She always says that I get obsessed with work at times and need to loosen up," Shuyu smiled fondly, remembering her whimsical lover.

"True, same here," Masataka replied. "Remember how she would always tease me and Renfa-sama?"

"She always knew how to get under your skin."

"Yeah, and sometimes she could be infuriating. Like that time she drank the wine you set aside for your anniversary."

"She just did whatever she wanted like she did not have a care in the world."

The two advisors sighed simultaneously.

"I miss her."

"It's not the same without her. I just wish she was still here with us."

"Me too, but life is full of changes. What we do with those changes is up to us. Right now, Renfa-sama is queen. Let's help her rule Son Go. It's what Sonsaku-sama wanted."


Kannei found Shuutai sitting in her room, playing with her pet cat. Masataka's bodyguard had taken off her bow ribbon, letting her hair down.

"How are you?" Kannei asked.

"I'm fine," Shuutai lied and Kannei saw right through it.

"No, you're not."

"So, you know what happened then."

"Yes, and I'm sorry."

"It had to be done, Shishun-dono."

"I know, but I know it wasn't easy."

"Not to Zangetsu-sama. Sometimes...he scares me."

Shuutai knew that people infected by the Helheim Fruit could not be saved, but to see a child become one of those Inves only to be gunned down by Masataka deeply disturbed the poor girl.

Kannei understood Shuutai's fear. Masataka was coldly efficient while dealing with the infected. In fact, he was coldly efficient at whatever job he did, except when he tutored Sonshoko. While tutoring the princess, he could be warm. With everything else, he was cold, focused, and borderline obsessive. He was a perfectionist to a near-insane degree.

There was a reason for his attitude. He hated leaving things unresolved and work unfinished. He might take breaks, but when he was focused on something he was not going to drop it for any reason.

He might be difficult to work with when he got overly obsessive, but it was understandable. He was working for the sake of Sonsaku-sama's dream. That dream was to unite the nation so that Sonken could rule in peace.

Kannei attempted to assuage Shuutai of her fears.

"I think Zangetsu-dono...Masataka scares himself sometimes," Kannei stated.

Shuutai blinked at the unexpected claim.

"What do you mean?" Shuutai asked.

"He's like Sonsaku-sama and Sonken-sama. He has to be strong and harden his heart when he does what he has to do. He knows how terrible it is, but he's willing to do so," Kannei explained.

"But...they were people..." Shuutai trembled, remembering the little girl that Masataka had killed when she turned into an Inves. He was just so cold and calm when he did it.

"They were people, but not after they became infected by the fruit they ate. They were nothing more than feral walking corpses. What he did...what you both did...was a mercy killing."

Shuutai closed her eyes. She understood that it was necessary, but it still hurt. She did not want to become cold and unfeeling. She was not like Masataka who could just push his feelings aside so that he could kill innocent people whose only crime was being turned into monsters.

But when there was no other way, then the best and only route was to be merciful for the poor souls.

"You'll be alright," said Kannei.

"Yes, I think I will," said Shuutai as she rubbed her cat's belly. Her pet purred at the treatment and Shuutai sighed as she smiled blissfully.


Masataka had not forgotten about his mission to find the RinJyuKen Akugata's headquarters, but he still had other responsibilities too. Namely, his responsibility as Sonshoko's tutor. Sonshoko did have Rikuson as her tutor already, but the green-haired strategist had other responsibilities as well so she could not always be around to tutor the princess. Sonsaku had once suggested to Sonshoko of making Shuyu her tutor. While Shuyu was more experienced and knowledgeable, Sonshoko had not exactly bonded so well to her eldest sister's strategist, advisor, and lover. Therefore, Sonsaku elected Masataka to be Sonshoko's new tutor.

When Masataka turned up, Sonshoko had not trusted him at first. He was a stranger. Then, when she nearly drowned in the river, he had saved her life with 'CPR'. She also learned that while he was saving her life, Masataka had technically stolen her first kiss. He called it 'mouth-to-mouth resuscitation', but Sonshoko still counted it as her first kiss.

She wished she could remember what it felt like, but honestly, she would much rather have Masataka as her big brother than a boyfriend. He was nice, but not really her type.

Well, she did have a bit of a crush on him, but she was not going to let him know that.

So, as she became fond of him, she wanted to spend more time with him. When she needed a tutor, his name was at the top of her list.

And yet, having him as her tutor still did not make studying easy for the young princess.

"I'm tired of studying!" whined Sonshoko as she rested her forearms and chin on the table, a book sitting open in front of her. She glared at the book, wishing it would just burst into flames.

"Shao-chan, studying is important," Masataka reminded. He had to constantly remind her that even if she was the youngest, she couldn't be the baby sister forever. She was getting older and eventually be given duties. She would be representing the Kingdom of Go for political events one day.

"But it's so boooooooring!" she complained as she kicked her legs. Masataka sighed and gently patted her head. She liked it when he gave her attention like this.

"Look, if you manage to finish your work tonight, I'll spend a whole day with you during the Tiger Festival," he bargained.

Sonshoko looked up at him, eyes sparkling.

"Really!?" Sonshoko exclaimed with glee.

"As a reward. Meaning you need to earn it first. Now, focus," he chided and she pouted before picking up the book as he watched her study. She read the book and took notes as he watched vigilantly. Masataka was instilling good study habits in Sonshoko.

The same way he instilled them in Minato, his little brother.

"Nii-chan, look! I got 100 on my test! It's all thanks to you!"

"Zan-niichan! Zan-niichan!"

Masataka blinked. Sonshoko had been calling his name while tugging on his sleeve.

"Huh? What is it?"

"You zoned out for a moment there. Is something wrong?" Sonshoko asked.

Masataka shook his head.

"Nothing. I was just thinking about something I might've forgotten," Masataka replied. "Now, let's continue your studies. We'll be covering diplomacy."


"Alright, good job everyone! That was a great rehearsal!" Taishiji praised her troupe as she applauded them.

Taishiji was the troupe master. She was a beautiful young woman with a tanned complexion, green eyes, and reddish-brown hair. Her hair was long and tied into a braid that was draped over her left shoulder. She also wore a feather in her hair as a decoration. She had a trim, hourglass figure that was showed off by her outfit. It was a red strapless dress with a very short skirt, a flowery pattern, and extremely low cut in the front with tassels hanging from her hip. On her arms, she wore transparent flared pink sleeves. On her feet, she wore sandals that were secured to her feet and legs by pink ribbons. She painted her toenails green and while her right leg was bare, she wore a leg sleeve on her left leg which matched her attire.

She should be cold with how exposed she was since it was winter, so Taishiji had a winter cloak draped over her shoulders to keep her warm.

"Now grab some dinner and get a good night's rest. We have a lot to do tomorrow for the Tiger Festival! Natsu, Fuyu, I need to speak with you both."

Natsu and Fuyu walked up to Taishiji as the rest of the troupe went to get their dinner.

"What did you want to speak with us about, Taishiji-san?" Fuyu asked politely.

"Just wondering how you both have been. I know your other boss has been keeping you boys busy," answered Taishiji.

"Oh, you mean Sempai? He's cool. He calls us when he needs help. We're just working for him part-time," Natsu explained.

"He drew up an acceptable contract for us, assigning us shifts that would not get in the way of our responsibility to the troupe," added Fuyu.

Taishiji had read the contract when she met Masataka. Everything seemed in order and it appeared fair. She just did not want the Fuma Twins to be taken advantage of. She saw how the factions were trying to gain power and influence. When the Armored War Gods first emerged, everyone wanted them for their power. It was why she did not want the twins to reveal themselves.

But then they came to perform for Princess Sonshoko's birthday, a day the RinJyuKen decided to attack. The twins could not let the RinJyuKen get away with ruining the princess' special day. They hated party crashers who showed up to ruin the whole party for everyone.

"It's just you've missed practice several times. I know your duty as Armored War Gods is important, but I need to know I can count on you both," said Taishiji.

Fuyu and Natsu understood. The troupe was Taishiji's family and she needed to know that she could count on the twins to be there when she needed them.

The twins were no stranger to time management. They grew up in an amusement park since their parents owned one. They worked part-time once they were old enough. It cut into their social time and their study time, which caused their schoolwork to slightly suffer, but they learned to manage their time well.

Taishiji was also worried when they got hurt. When she heard that Fuyu got hurt by a Centipede Rinrinshi, she feared she would lose him.

"When our enemies come to threaten the kingdom, we have to fight. But the rest of the time, we're yours," Fuyu promised.

"Yeah, we were yours first, Taishiji," Natsu added.

The twins understood their priorities. That brought a smile to Taishiji's face.

"Just don't get yourselves killed, alright?" Taishiji pleaded. "Now go get something to eat before it's all gone."


Sonken and Masataka left the palace together to take a walk in the city. The Queen of Son Go was dressed in peasant clothes to blend in and not draw too much attention to them. As they walked together, while holding hands, they watched as preparations for the Tiger Festival were underway. A festive atmosphere hung in the air as people were putting up decorations, replacing the normal lanterns with colorful versions. Numerous stalls were being set up as well.

The Tiger Festival was an annual event that was started when Sonken Bundai became ruler of Son Go. It was done in commemoration of her creating the kingdom and the festival was named after Sonken Bundai as she was also known as the 'Tiger of Koto'.

"Is now really a good time for a festival?" Sonken wondered. Under her leadership, Son Go and its people continued to prosper after they recovered from the loss of Sonsaku. They were also under the protection of Zangetsu, their Armored War God. Despite being threatened by the forces of the evil RinJyuKen Akugata, the people felt safe knowing that their protectors would always be there to defend them from any threat.

Sometimes, though, Sonken had doubts that she could live up to her eldest sister's example. Sonken might have disapproved of some of Sonsaku's methods, but there was no doubt that they had been effective during her time as queen.

Masataka understood Sonken's concern. Being Queen of Son Go meant making some difficult choices. It was not always so clean cut. Sometimes you had to decide on the best choice when there were not a lot of good options available.

Sonken wasn't sure a festival during these times was the best. They should be spending more time preparing themselves for when their enemies attacked. But, depriving the people of such an important festival would be wrong.

Masataka thought the Tiger Festival could ease some of Sonken's worries and make her forget about her burden, even for a little bit. Everyone deserved to have some fun every now and then.

All work and no play make Jack a dull boy.

"At times like this, we all need a bit of cheering up," Masataka answered as he stood beside her, putting an arm around her shoulders. She leaned in against him, comforted by his presence.

"You're right," Sonken agreed. "Besides, I doubt my Okaa-sama and Onee-sama would forgive me if I ever canceled the festival for any reason."

"Your sister did love to party, especially after a successful battle," Masataka recalled fondly.

"I wish she was here, though."

"She is. Her spirit is watching over us and she's right here in our hearts and our memories. As long as we remember her, she's never really gone."

Sonken agreed. Sonsaku might be gone but her memory lived on with the people who loved her. Instead of being worried, the current Queen of Son Go should relax and enjoy a romantic moment with her beloved betrothed.

"I wished my brother could be here to see this," Masataka said as he watched the preparations below. Sonken knew he meant Minato Miyamoto. Masataka had mentioned him before.

"You miss your brother," said Sonken.

"Yeah, I really do," Masataka admitted.

"Do you have any regrets for coming back here instead of staying in Heaven?" Sonken asked.

"I don't regret my choice. I only hope he understands why I'm not there with him anymore," Masataka answered.

"Tell me more about your brother," Sonken requested. That brought a smile of nostalgia to Masataka's face.

"Minato loves festivals. We used to go as a family until our parents left us with our grandfather. Since then, it was up to me to look after him and make sure he was happy. I would take him to the local summer festival and we would have so much fun."

"What kind of fun did you have?" Sonken inquired.

"Oh, we played all the games and ate so much that we both had stomachaches," Masataka recalled fondly. "Worth it, though. Those snacks were delicious."

"I suppose they were if you stuffed yourself until you got sick," Sonken replied with an amused smile. She could imagine Masataka looking all bloated and lying on the ground, groaning.

"Well, the stomachaches were much worse during Halloween-I mean a festival where children wear costumes and adult gives them sweets. On Halloween, we had so much candy that we got really sick the next day."

"And was it worth it?" Sonken asked.

"It was worth it," Masataka answered resolutely. "And on Minato's birthday, I always made sure to spend the day with him."

"You were always there for him," Sonken concluded.

"When our parents left, he needed me so I made time for him even with my busy schedule," Masataka said. It was a habit he carried over even now as he made sure to spend time with Sonshoko if he was not too busy with work.

Masataka just hoped that Minato was living happily even without him by his side. At least Minato was not alone. He had their grandfather with him.

Guards were on patrol. During festival preparations which were a busy time, there could still be trouble going on. Someone could be pickpocketing honest hardworking people or some drunks who decided to celebrate early would cause a disturbance. The guards needed to be ready for anything and enforce the law when necessary.

A couple of guards were approached by a stranger in a red shirt and black vest. He gave them a friendly smile. He did not look like a local; likely a visitor who had come to enjoy the Tiger Festival.

"Excuse me, sirs. Do you know where someone like me can go for a good time?"


That evening, Shuyu Koukin decided she needed time away from the palace and went out for a walk. She went out by herself, without a security detail, as she needed some time alone. Besides, the one person she wanted to spend time with was gone.

The red light district was easy to spot. The entrance was a red gateway which led into a section of the city that was made exclusively for taverns, gambling dens, and brothels. The place was marked by red lanterns that lit up the district at night.

She entered an establishment that Masataka frequently visited. When she got inside, she frowned as she saw men sitting around, having drinks, while being served by scantily clad waitresses. Up on stage, a girl was performing an exotic dance. There were some girls walking around, talking to men, then walking with those men to the rooms upstairs.

As Shuyu walked towards the bar counter, she felt someone smack her in the butt, causing her to gasp. She whirled around, her eyes narrowed in a glare as she looked at the man who had just touched her.

"Hey, how much for a night with you?" the man asked, slurring his words. He was drunk and Shuyu resisted the urge to gag as she could smell his body odor. While this establishment used scented candles to mask such scents, the man stood uncomfortably close to Shuyu.

Shuyu was not just disgusted by his odor but also by the lecherous leer he was giving her as he hungrily licked his lips. Under her winter cloak, Shuyu was dressed as she usually was, in her standard qipao, which had a plunging neckline that left her stomach and cleavage exposed. So, just by her looks and comparing her to the girls working here, the man thought she was another whore.

"C'mon, don't be shy, honey. How much just for a night?" the man continued to accost Shuyu.

Shuyu growled in anger. How dare this man believe her to be some kind of prostitute! Did he think she would sleep with him for money!? The nerve!

She smacked the man hard in the face and knocked him down. He lay flat on the floor. Either he passed out because he was drunk, or Shuyu had knocked him out. She did not care. Either way, he would not be bothering her any longer.

Shuyu took a deep breath and calmed down, ignoring the man now lying on the floor. The people working here should drag him out soon enough. In the meantime, she could use a drink.

The empty stool next to her was soon occupied. Shuyu regarded the person for a moment. He was a young man dressed in a red kung fu shirt with a black hooded vest. He wore black pants and brown boots. His hair was a dark shade of brown, though that was hard to see with the place's dim lighting. He also had green eyes.

Shuyu blinked a bit as she stared at him. The young man caught her staring and turned to face her, cocking an eyebrow.

"What?"

Shuyu realized that she had been staring. That was rude of her.

"I'm sorry. You just resemble someone I know."

"Oh, an old boyfriend?"

Shuyu gasped.

"What!? No!"

The stranger snickered.

"Sorry, just messing with you. Anyway, the name's Minamoto. What's your name?"

"It's Shuyu. Shuyu Koukin."

"Well, Koukin-san. What's a lady like you doing in a place like this?"

A decent question. Honestly, Shuyu realized with how she was dressed, more men would think she worked here.

"Just needed some alone time," Shuyu admitted.

"Really? Would you like some company?" Minamoto asked.

"I don't work here," Shuyu insisted.

"I know, but if you did, I'd bet you'd make a lot of money. Not saying you should, I mean. I'm just saying you're gorgeous."

Shuyu blushed at the praise, but she kept her guard up. She was not going to be buttered up by some pretty words.

"Just so you know my boundaries, Minamoto-san."

"Yeah, I can respect boundaries. So, would you like some company? Could I buy you a drink?"

"I would not be opposed to it."

It was better than drinking alone and feeling pathetic.


When the morning came, it was the first day of the Tiger Festival. As part of the opening ceremony for the Tiger Festival, an Inves Games Tournament would take place. The Inves Games were very popular in Son Go. Once Masataka found a use for the Lockseeds besides warfare, it seemed like a good idea to have them become a source of entertainment. He made sure to implement strict laws regarding the ownership and use of the Lockseeds. He was not blind to how dangerous they were but the pros outweighed the cons. Besides, the sale of the Lockseeds made sure there was a steady flow of money to the treasury and the people enjoyed possessing such interesting trinkets.

Many Inves Games players from across the kingdom had come to participate in the tournament so they could win the grand prize money. As Head of the Lockseed Distribution Department, Masataka had an obligation to attend such events. In case of out of control Inves, he would instantly cut down the beast before it harmed anyone.

"Welcome to the Tiger Festival's Inves Games Tournament!" Chinrin Kosho announced as she spoke into her microphone. At the mention of the event's name, cheers erupted from the crowd. She waited for the cheers to die down before she continued, "First of all, allow me to introduce the organizers of this event: our ruler Sonken-sama and her Armored War God Zangetsu-sama!"

The Son Royal Family was seated at the very top of the steps that led into the palace's entrance. They were joined by their officers so they could watch the tournament from a safe distance and still be seen by the citizens who were allowed entry into the courtyard. The price of admission was expensive.

The entire Go Faction was present, but Shuyu seemed oddly absent. Perhaps she was not in a celebrating mood. While Sonken was worried about Shuyu, she knew the woman could take care of herself.

"No matter how many times we do this, it's still new," Sonken smiled, blushing at the attention as she waved to her people.

"Sonsaku-sama loved the attention too," Masataka reminded nostalgically.

"Indeed she did. Hopefully, this event will bring her spirit much joy," Sonken nodded.

"Oh, this is just so exciting!" chirped Sonshoko happily. She was upset that she wasn't allowed to participate, but at least she would get to watch an exciting tournament.

"Now, let's begin the tournament!" Chinrin announced. "Players, get in the ring and unleash the beasts!"

"That's not a bad catchphrase," Kogai commented.

"Indeed, it was quite apt," Rikuson agreed.

"Meh, I could think of something better," Natsu shrugged.

"Just enjoy the matches, Nii-san," advised Fuyu.

The first two participants released their Inves using A-Class Lockseeds. One player released a Byakko Inves while the other released a Kamikiri Inves. Instantly, the special energy field that kept the Inves within the confines of the stage erected itself, keeping the players and audience safe.

Once given a command, the two Inves began to fight. Masataka watched as both players shouted orders. The Kamikiri Inves was using fast strikes but the Byakko Inves was using its armor and claws to defend itself. The Byakko Inves then threw the Kamikiri Inves to the ground before it brought its claws down for a killing blow.

Sonshoko cheered loudly at the action taking place along with Shokyo and Daikyo.

Masataka scanned the crowd. Members of his own Moon Brigade were ready in case anybody tried anything funny with the Inves. With this many people using Lockseeds gathered in one place, it would be a disaster if an out of control horde was summoned. He was not going to be careless and allow another tragedy to happen.

Among the audience stood a man in white robes with a hood covering his head. He was just standing there. He didn't seem to be very threatening, just odd. Even when he took out a Lockseed, he didn't seem out of place. After all, Lockseeds were very common in Son Go since Zangetsu introduced them to the people.

While traveling merchants used the Inves to protect themselves from bandits, the farmers used the creatures as extra farmhands, and the carpenters and construction workers used them as extra muscle to carry tools and building material. They were also used to bolster Son Go's military power.

Though, the Lockseed in his hand didn't seem normal. It was modeled after a pomegranate and lacked a code.

When he unlocked it, the Lockseed blinked repeatedly while making a beeping noise.

"And we have a winner!" Chinrin declared as the Kamikiri Inves was destroyed. The winner caught the loser's Lockseed as it flew into his hand and smiled victoriously. "And next-!"

Chinrin was interrupted by a loud scream.

"DEATH TO THE FALSE GODS!" the man in white screamed before the Lockseed in his hand flashed brightly.

The explosion was deafening and bodies were thrown in all directions, some in pieces. Those fortunate enough to stand far from the blast range were taken aback. The ones standing at the edge of the range, however, were knocked down.

Once the shock subsided, there was screaming as panic spread across the courtyard as people tried to flee. The guards tried to enforce order but were roughly shoved aside since they stood in the way of the exit.

Watching all this happening was the Go Faction who stood frozen in horror. The color drained from Sonken's face as she witnessed what happened. Rikuson was able to shield Sonshoko's eyes in time to spare her from the gory sight.

As for Masataka, he clenched his fists tightly as he gritted his teeth. A growl passed through his teeth at the sight below.

The first day of the Tiger Festival had just started with a bang.


KRC: The opening scene actually took place during the first chapter of "Age of the Armored War Gods". I thought an appearance by Sonsaku, even in a flashback, would make this special. Now, this arc is inspired by "Gaim Gaiden: Kamen Rider Duke" for this arc. You will see many references to that V-Cinema movie. Also, the twins' background was something that was given to me by Gkoh. Try to guess the source.

Now for some continuity notes:

*The first scene is set during "Age of the Armored War Gods Chapter 1: Prophecy of the Four Sovereigns".

*Sonsei was caught trying to assassinate Sonsaku during "Tales of the Armored War Gods Chapter 10: Slaying Moon" and has not been seen since. She was most likely executed for her crimes against the kingdom. Her co-conspirators also tried to flee using a portal to Helheim Forest to escape, but since the portal can only be opened in the human world with a Lockseed, they ended up stuck there. They were likely killed by Inves or had become Inves themselves from eating the fruit.

*Sonsaku was assassinated by Nise-Zangetsu in "Age of the Armored War Gods Chapter 3: Fall of the White Devil".

*The white ribbon that Shuutai wears was given to her by Masataka in "End of the Armored War Gods Chapter 9: The Harvest Festival".

*Kademu injured Kamuro with his Gaidokuken in the final chapter of "Age of the Armored War Gods".


Shuyu was in bed as she rolled over on her side. She was soon roused awake by her internal alarm clock and opened her eyes. She let out a yawn and reached for her glasses which she had placed down on the nightstand.

As her vision cleared, she soon realized that this was not her bedroom. The next thing she noticed was that she was naked. Finally, she became aware that she was not alone in bed. Looking over, she saw the back of a man who was also in a state of undress like herself.

"What have I done...?" Shuyu murmured, eyes widened in horrified realization.

Careful as to not wake her bedmate, she snuck out of bed and picked up her clothing which lay scattered all over the floor. She first put on her underwear before pulling on her dress. Next, she put on her shoes. She adjusted her clothing and ran her hands through her hair to straighten it. Finally, she walked out the room, opening the door carefully before she quietly left.

She stepped out of the brothel in her winter cloak and called a rickshaw. As she got on, she ordered the rickshaw driver to take her straight to the palace.

Hopefully, Shuyu could put this whole incident behind her.

As the rickshaw pulled away with Shuyu riding in it, Minamoto looked out the window to watch her leave. He did not seem upset that she ran off as he smiled.

It was not a very nice smile.