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.
There was rampant chaos in the kingdom. Wild panic spread uncontrollably through the streets as screams of terror filled the air with people desperately trying to flee to safety. Black columns of smoke rose into the air as buildings were set ablaze. The guards were trying to evacuate the citizens and get them to safety all the while fighting against enemy forces. Huge explosions erupted throughout the city, filling the air with loud booms, spreading carnage everywhere.
As the kingdom suffered from the attack, the palace was under siege, surrounded from all sides by men and women of various ages with glowing red eyes. These were the innocent people that Saver had enthralled and made into his personal suicide bomber squad as they carried Zakuro Lockseeds, threatening to blow themselves up. They had no idea what they were doing and had no control over themselves.
The palace seemed to be trapped in a cage and on the rooftop stood Zangetsu-Shin and Saver, both of them glaring at each other as ashes and embers floated in the air.
Zangetsu-Shin roared furiously and rushed at Saver who howled madly as he charged right back.
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 31: Climax of the Tiger Festival
4 Hours Earlier...
Masataka's door opened and Shuutai entered to see him already awake. He was putting on the spare glasses she had left on his bedside table.
"Zangetsu-sama!" Shuutai gasped and she ran over to him. "You should be resting!"
"Minmei..." Masataka paused, gaping in disbelief once he got a good look at her. She was not in her usual uniform. Instead, she was dressed as a maid with cat ears on her head and a collar with a bell hanging from it. "Um…any particular reason that you're wearing that?"
Shuutai blushed in embarrassment. It was not her usual uniform, far from it, but she couldn't help but find it adorable with the addition of the cat ears and bell. Cats were her weakness, after all. She just couldn't resist their adorableness and playfulness.
"Shoko-sama insisted I put this on if I was going to be taking care of you," Shuutai confessed.
"Even the ears and the bell?" Masataka asked.
"Yes, she said you would like to wake up and see something cute greeting you...nya."
"'Nya'?" he repeated and Shuutai's blush deepened.
"I'll go change. I know I look ridiculous-" Shuutai reached up to remove the cat ears.
"You look cute," Masataka complimented.
"Y-you really think so, Zangetsu-sama?" Shuutai asked.
"I do, Minmei," he reaffirmed.
Shuutai kept the cat ears on. The maid outfit and cat-like accessories might be embarrassing, but hearing Masataka compliment her-calling her cute-was worth it. She should consider dressing up more like this in the future.
"I'll go and inform Sonken-sama that you've awoken," Shuutai said.
"Actually, I'm going to see Sonken-sama myself," said Masataka as he threw off his covers and got up. He went to his cupboard to grab his clothes and didn't seem to mind Shuutai watching him as he got dressed.
"Wait, Zangetsu-sama. You should be resting," Shuutai urged as Masataka slipped on a new pair of pants.
"I'm fine," Masataka told her as he put on a shirt before grabbing his signature white robe. "And my mind is still as sharp as ever." He put on his robe and tightened the sash he wore around his waist. "And now I know someone we can question about our enemy."
"Who is it, Zangetsu-sama?" Shuutai asked.
"Shuyu-dono." Shuutai gasped in shock. After a brief pause, Masataka asked awkwardly, "...Minmei, are you wearing a tail?"
"Shao-sama insisted it was important to complete the costume," Shuutai admitted with a hint of embarrassment as her cheeks pinkened. Sonshoko had offered paws, but Shuutai drew the line at that. She needed her hands to fight and those paws would make gripping her weapons impossible. Nonetheless, Shuutai still kept the paws for personal use.
"Of course she did," Masataka remarked flatly. He would need to have a chat with Sonshoko about taking advantage of subordinates.
Meanwhile, speaking of Sonshoko, she was out on the festival grounds with Rikuson and escorted by a group of female guards clad in the same uniform as Kannei.
The festival grounds were packed with various stands that offered games, souvenirs, and refreshments. All sorts of food were being sold by vendors like dumplings, noodles, and rice balls, but Sonshoko was not hungry, even if they all smelled so good. Her stomach rumbled, but she ignored it. She didn't come to the festival to eat and have fun. She was out here looking for something.
She was here looking for a gift for her Zan-niichan. One stand sold dolls in the image of the Armored War Gods. It seemed the Gaim dolls were the most popular ones as Sonshoko saw some children playing with them. While Sonshoko accepted that Gaim was popular and powerful, her favorite would always be her Zan-niichan.
"Non, what do you think Zan-niichan would like?" Sonshoko asked as she scanned the festival grounds, looking through the sea of people, searching for a gift like a shark seeking its prey in the ocean.
The gift Sonshoko was looking for needed to be perfect. It needed to be something good, something special, something that her Zan-niichan would appreciate coming from her.
"Well, it should be something meaningful to you and Zangetsu-sama," Rikuson suggested.
"Something meaningful, hm..." Sonshoko murmured. What sort of gift could be meaningful? It needed to be something that represented their bond and how close they were. As they continued to look around, a certain stand caught Sonshoko's eye. She quickly went for it, with Rikuson and the female guards following her. They needed to keep an eye on the princess. With such a large crowd, Sonshoko could get lost and they didn't want that to happen. She was vulnerable all on her own and could get attacked or kidnapped if they lost sight of her.
The last time Sonshoko went missing, Sonsaku had sent search parties to look for her. Zangetsu went to look for her too, worried about the young princess. One day, he returned and told Sonsaku that Sonshoko was coming home with some friends. No longer worried, Sonsaku called off the search and waited while Zangetsu checked up on Sonshoko until her return.
Sonshoko got lucky the last time when she met Gaim and his vassals. She could've run into some unsavory characters who would take advantage of her naivety. What was she thinking when she left home without guards to escort her? She was a princess and a tempting target for bandits who could kidnap her and hold her for ransom.
"Shao-sama, you shouldn't run off like that!" Rikuson huffed once she and the female guards caught up with the young princess. They found her in front of a stand which displayed a unique collection of jewelry that caused Sonshoko's eyes to sparkle while Rikuson cast them an appreciative look. There were necklaces, earrings, rings and bracelets that looked so beautiful.
"I see you ladies are interested in my merchandise," the vendor greeted them. His nose was long and crooked while he wore a green coat with a tall hat and a friendly smile. "Are you looking for something in particular?"
"I'm looking for a gift for my big brother," Sonshoko answered.
"Ah, so a gift for a loved one. How nice," the vendor responded happily. "If you're looking for something special, would you like me to recommend something?"
Sonshoko could not decide what she wanted, so listening to some recommendations should help her make a decision. Of course, he could try and sell her something expensive or try to cheat her. She learned her lesson the last time she spent all her traveling money on a decorative hairpin. She would not make the mistake of making frivolous purchases again.
"Alright, show me your recommendations," Sonshoko accepted. If he tried to cheat her, she could look elsewhere. There were plenty of stands around for her to find a suitable gift for Masataka, but she was also interested in the jewelry the vendor offered.
"How about these bracelets?" the vendor suggested as he showed Sonshoko a set of three silver bands with a jade stone in each. Each band was etched with a beautiful pattern of vines. "These bracelets are meant to be worn by members of a family to signify the bond they share."
"Family bracelets?" Sonshoko's eyes shone. That would make an excellent gift. Masataka was practically part of the family and he would soon marry Sonken, making it official. These bracelets would be the perfect gift for him. There were also three of them: one for Sonshoko, one for Masataka and one for Sonken. "How much?"
"Shao-sama, are you sure?" Rikuson asked. Sonshoko could be impulsive and end up making unwise decisions due to her youthfulness and inexperience.
"I'm sure," Sonshoko replied before she repeated to the vendor, "How much?"
The vendor gave her the price of the bracelets. It was not too high or too low.
It was just right.
Taking the bracelets, which the vendor put in a beautiful decorative box, Sonshoko smiled as she walked away with her purchase. Masataka would be so happy when he got her gift, and he could even give one to Sonken. Sonshoko put one on herself and was already happy.
"Should we head back to the palace, Rikuson-dono?" one of the female guards asked Rikuson. They were right to be wary. While it might seem festive, the tension caused by the incident at the opening ceremony days ago still lingered. Sonken's speech to the people might've worked to calm them down, but it would be foolish not to remain vigilant. The perpetrator behind the explosive incident still remained at large.
Rikuson looked at Sonshoko who seemed to be enjoying herself. Her safety was top priority. She was the kingdom's princess, so she needed to be kept safe. However, to keep her locked up in a gilded cage would do her no good either. Sonshoko had been looking forward to this and Rikuson did not have the heart to disappoint her. Besides, when the people saw that Sonshoko was not afraid to venture out and enjoy herself, it eased their worries.
"Maybe we can stay out here a bit longer," Rikuson replied. The female guards nodded and obeyed. Rikuson also wanted to be out here at the festival as well. Fuyu told her that there was going to be a parade and she wanted to see it. Sonshoko would probably like to see it too.
When Sonsaku decided to sponsor Taishiji's performance troupe, she had also given them a building which they could use as a practice studio and a place of residence. It could also be used as a theater for their performances.
Originally, the troupe would travel around like nomads, setting up camps near towns and cities where they performed like a traveling circus. Having a place to come home to was a welcome surprise for the troupe. A proper roof over their heads and beds, especially during harsh weather, was not an offer Taishiji could reject. Besides, the royal family was paying them to perform, and it would be foolish to reject the money being offered so generously.
Of course, Taishiji knew that Sonsaku only did it so she could have Natsu and Fuyu serving Son Go, the young lady was business savvy enough to see that. So, Sonsaku and Taishiji compromised. The twins would still be part of Taishiji's troupe but would serve Son Go when they were absolutely needed. The twins would not allow their duties to the kingdom to interfere with their duties to Taishiji. They still traveled to other cities, towns, and villages to put on their shows. It was a tradition for them and their new circumstances did not change the fact that they were a traveling performance troupe. Once a traveling troupe, always a traveling troupe.
A parade was scheduled for the last day of the Tiger Festival, which was today, and Taishiji's troupe would be giving a show for all to see as their procession went through the city. It would be a loud and colorful performance, chasing away all their fears.
Taishiji had been organizing their parade for weeks, putting everyone through rehearsals almost every day. The money they got from the royal family allowed them to afford brand new costumes and props which were bright and colorful. Everyone was clad in red and gold, the colors of Son Go.
They had been practicing for weeks, working hard and making sure they would put on a grand display for the parade. They wanted everyone in Son Go to enjoy what they had prepared for them to see.
Taishiji stood before her troupe as they were in the middle of their final preparations for the parade that would take place in just a few short hours.
"Alright, everyone! I'm so proud of all of you! You've worked hard, shown me how dedicated you are and I am so happy with all the effort you've shown to make this the best parade ever! I know that we don't normally do parades and this will be our first, but it's no different than our usual shows! Instead of a normal stage, the entire street will be our stage!"
"Taishiji-san, what about the incident at the opening ceremony? Are we in danger?" one of the troupe members asked.
"You have nothing to fear, everyone! We have our own Armored War Gods to protect us!" Taishiji answered, referring to Natsu and Fuyu who were present. "They'll make sure we stay safe! There's only one thing you need to worry about is putting on the best damn parade ever and enjoy yourselves! And after the parade, we are going to party all night long!"
The troupe cheered at that announcement before resuming their preparations.
Taishiji walked up to Natsu and Fuyu who had put on their lion dance costume. The twins put on matching furry pants for the lion's legs while the full body costume lay nearby.
"So, how's my lion doing?" Taishiji asked.
"We're good. Thanks for choosing us for the lion dance and putting us at the front of the parade," Natsu said. They weren't the only lion dancers, either. There were four other pairs who would be dancing alongside them at the front of the parade, but the twins would be the ones leading the dance.
"Well, you both do have the best teamwork and coordination," Taishiji said. "And you did earn it during additions."
Taishiji was not just going to let anyone do the lion dance for the parade. She needed people who could work well together and not fight over who would be the head of the lion. Natsu and Fuyu showed what they could do and they definitely earned their role as their parade's lead lion.
"I'm still worried, though," said Fuyu. "Such a public spectacle would be a tempting target for fanatical terrorists." So many people would be gathered to watch and the terrorists had shown that they were not afraid to attack a public event. In fact, bombing a public event as huge as the parade would make a great statement for their cause.
"I know you're worried, but if we run and hide then they win. We've also rehearsed for weeks," Taishiji replied.
"So you're saying it's worth the risk?" Fuyu asked cautiously.
"You need to risk big in this business to shine brightly, Fuyu. Besides, with you boys around, I'm sure those cowards won't have the nerve to try anything," said Taishiji optimistically.
Fuyu was not too sure about that. Son Go's Armored War Gods were all present during the opening ceremony and looked what happened there.
The bombing was not the only reason he felt worried. Last night, he had lost his Silver Lockseed to Majin Gaim and Natsu had also lost his Golden Lockseed the same way. They had gotten replacements, being members of Masataka's Lockseed Distribution Department and Moon Brigade, but Fuyu just wasn't so sure and confident if they were to encounter anyone like Majin Gaim again. Would they even stand a chance next time? They had fought with their strongest Lockseeds and were still beaten. It was a miracle that Majin Gaim even allowed them to live.
Fuyu got a slap on the back that brought him back to Earth.
"Chill, little bro. We can do this. If anyone tries to mess with the parade, they'll have to mess with us first," Natsu grinned encouragingly and confidently.
At this point, Fuyu wasn't sure if his brother was in denial or just ignoring the issue in favor of focusing on the parade. But, Taishiji was right. This parade was important. They could still be cautious and put on a show both at the same time. To them, the show must go on.
According to Masataka, there would be guards assigned at the parade. If anyone even thought of making trouble, they would be taken down and subdued.
"Now, you two should practice your routine again. Remember, the parade is in a few hours and we want to put on the best show ever," Taishiji instructed the twins.
"Come on, Fuyu!" Natsu picked up the lion's head and put it on. "Get behind me so we can practice!"
"Alright," Fuyu said as he got under the lion's body behind Natsu. "Are you ready?"
"Born ready! OK, drummer! Hit it!"
The twins practiced their lion dance, but Fuyu still could not shake off the bad feeling that something bad was going to happen. He might just be paranoid, but recent events supported his worries.
Masataka and Sonken were in the throne room, accompanied by Kannei and Ryomo. Kannei seemed to have recovered, but she still needed to wear her bandages and avoid strenuous activities lest she reopened her wound. Masataka had sent Shuutai (in her uniform) to call Shuyu over.
"Are you sure about this, Masataka-kun?" Sonken asked her fiancé.
"I know what I heard, Renfa-sama," Masataka answered firmly. He would not be swayed.
"Maybe he only said that to make you suspicious, Zangetsu-sama," Ryomo suggested.
"Perhaps I might be getting a little paranoid," Masataka considered. Their enemies had used deception before, so Saver was probably trying to make Masataka suspicious by dropping Shuyu's name. "I just need to speak with her to make sure."
He really did not want to believe Shuyu had anything to do with Saver. She was a loyal friend and comrade who had sworn her loyalty to the kingdom and the royal family. There was no way she would even consider getting into bed with a terrorist and conspire against them.
There was no way.
Masataka just needed to be sure.
'Please, Shuyu-dono. Don't be involved with Saver.'
Any other time, Masataka and Sonken would be happy to learn that Shuyu was able to move on and find someone, but not this time.
This was a nightmare.
Shuyu entered the throne room, escorted by Shuutai.
"You sent for me, Sonken-sama?" Shuyu asked. She took note of her surroundings. There stood Masataka and Ryomo to Sonken's right as the queen sat upon her throne. There was also Kannei standing to Sonken's left with her guard up, ready to take down any threat that would dare harm Sonken.
"Actually, it was Zangetsu who summoned you," Sonken corrected.
"Zangetsu-dono?" Shuyu noticed the way Sonken addressed Masataka. She never called him 'Zangetsu' while with them, not since he revealed his true name to her. It seemed this was a serious situation as all eyes were on Shuyu.
"Shuyu-dono, I must ask you about your whereabouts in the last three nights," Masataka ordered. Shuyu narrowed her eyes at him. How dare Masataka think he could give her commands? Who did he think he was? He might be an Armored War God, but she still outranked him as his superior.
When Shuyu refused to answer, Sonken pulled rank.
"Shuyu, please answer the question," requested Sonken. Shuyu could not refuse an order from her queen (as undeserving as she was). Doing so would cause them to become suspicious of her. She might as well save herself the trouble and answer truthfully.
"I was out drinking," Shuyu answered unhappily.
"Were you alone?" Masataka questioned. Shuyu refused to answer his question, but Sonken could still order her, and refusing to answer the queen would not look good for her. She also could not lie. Obviously, Masataka already knew the answer to the question judging by the tone he was using.
"…I was not alone. I went drinking with a friend," Shuyu answered after some hesitation.
Masataka remembered Kuma mentioning that he saw Shuyu at his club's bar, having drinks with someone.
"And is this 'friend' the reason you did not return until the following morning?"
"It was late, so I spent the night with them." Shuyu did not lie. She merely omitted some details.
"Who is this 'friend' of yours, Shuyu-dono?"
"A casual acquaintance."
"I need a name," Masataka demanded insistently.
Shuyu tightened her lips. She did not want to rat Minamoto out, but it did not look like she was being given a choice.
"His name...is 'Minamoto'," Shuyu answered after much reluctance.
Masataka's eyes widened in recognition when he heard that familiar name and he leaned in and whispered something into Sonken's ear. Shuyu's suspicion grew. First the odd questions and now this whispering.
What were they up to?
Shuyu watched as Sonken closed her eyes and sigh. When she opened them, they were hard and aimed at Shuyu.
Was that shame reflected in those eyes?
"Shuyu Koukin, it is with a heavy heart that I put you under house arrest," Sonken declared.
Shuyu was shocked, and then her shock turned into outrage.
"On what charge!?" Shuyu demanded.
"Suspicion of treason," Sonken said before she ordered Shuutai and Kannei, "Take her away to her room."
Kannei and Shuutai moved to restrain Shuyu, holding her by the arms as they led her out of the throne room. As Shuyu was under house arrest, the strategist would be confined in her quarters until Sonken decided what to do with her.
"I'm really sorry, Shuyu-sama," Shuutai apologized.
"Please, do not resist," Kannei pleaded.
"Unhand me! This is an outrage! I am not a traitor!" Shuyu screamed as she struggled while being taken away by Shuutai and Kannei. They had to drag her out as she put up a fight while resisting them.
Once Shuyu had been taken away, Sonken buried her face in her hands.
This seemed terribly familiar to her. Her aunt had conspired against her sister and now Shuyu might be conspiring against her and the kingdom.
This was like a bad dream.
Shokatsuryou Komei had once said that the ones most likely to conspire against a ruler were the ones closest to them. There would be disagreements which could cause resentment that could lead to radical actions.
It just did not make sense for Shuyu to be a traitor. She had always been so loyal to Sonsaku and the Kingdom of Son Go. To betray them like this was unthinkable.
What was going on here?
"Renfa-sama?" Masataka asked when Sonken suddenly went silent.
"Masataka-kun, why is this happening?" Sonken asked him.
"I...I don't know..." Masataka answered doubtfully. "But until we capture Saver and question him ourselves, we won't get any answers."
Masataka had told Sonken through whispering that Minamoto and Saver could be one and the same and that Shuyu had made contact with their enemy. It was possible that Shuyu was unaware of Minamoto's secret identity, but Masataka could not risk it.
Like Sonken, he did not want to believe that Shuyu was a traitor, so there had to be another explanation. Maybe Saver was using Shuyu, manipulating her in fact.
Saver had to be the most frustrating enemy Masataka ever had the misfortune to face. He was cunning, tricky and slippery, always managing to escape. Saver taunted Masataka and drove him crazy as he chased every possible lead, even causing him to lose sleep.
And now Shuyu could be in league with Saver.
"I don't think it was fair of you to accuse Shuyu-sama without proof," Ryomo argued as she spoke up.
"She knew him, Ryomo," Masataka defended. "That's enough to implicate her."
"It's just a coincidence," Ryomo retorted. "You cannot accuse someone of treason because of a coincidence."
"She has a point, Masataka-kun," Sonken agreed. "I trust you, but if you're wrong, you owe Shuyu an apology and so do I."
Masataka wanted to believe Shuyu was innocent as she was his mentor and friend, but he could not afford to take any chances right now with a threat hanging over their heads. He could not afford to be careless because the last time he was careless, it cost him dearly. He got ambushed, had his identity stolen and worst of all Sonsaku was killed.
Masataka swore he would not let something like that happen again. It might seem unfair to accuse Shuyu of treason without proof, but a dangerous terrorist was at large and she already admitted that she had met him in the last three nights. She could lead them right to him.
It wasn't like Saver was just going to come up to their doorstep and surrender. That would be crazy.
Masataka's LockPhone rang at that very moment, stalling his train of thought. Who was calling right now? Whoever it was, they had terrible timing. He considered ignoring it, but he quickly took it out of his pocket to answer. It would just ring continuously if he did not answer, which would be annoying.
"Whoever this is, now's not a good time," Masataka said into his LockPhone.
"Is that any way to speak on the phone? Now that's just rude."
Masataka froze when he heard the voice on the other end, recognizing it immediately.
"Saver."
Sonken gasped. Saver was calling Masataka directly. She had not expected that at all.
"Yeah, it's me. I just called to say hello," Saver continued in a calm yet taunting manner. "How was your little swim?"
"Cold," Masataka answered flatly. "I wouldn't recommend it in this weather."
"Well, you weren't always the adventurous type, but look at you now. You've moved up in the world, haven't you? Advisor and fiancé to the Queen of Son Go. Pretty nice gig you got going."
"Enough with the pleasantries, Saver. What is this about? What do you want?" Masataka demanded.
"I just called to say that I'm gonna be dropping by your place."
Like Sonken did not expect the call, Masataka did not expect that.
"Where are you?"
"Oh, I'm just outside the gate. Come see if you don't believe me. Bye~!"
Saver hung up and Masataka put his LockPhone away.
"What did he say?" Sonken asked.
"He says he has come to see me and is waiting just outside the palace gate," Masataka answered. This surprised Sonken and Ryomo. During the call, Sonken observed Masataka. He definitely knew who Saver was and it was personal.
"Wait, so he's here? Right now? Already?" Ryomo asked worriedly.
"Masataka-kun, who is Saver and how do you know him?" Sonken asked.
Masataka looked Sonken in the eye with an intense gaze. He knew he should tell her, but this was a family matter. However, it had gotten complicated and become a matter of great urgency for the kingdom. Saver was a dangerous terrorist with terrible plans for Son Go and Sonken deserved to know who he was.
Masataka closed his eyes, took in a deep breath, opened them and gave his answer to Sonken.
He was about to drop a huge bomb on her, figuratively speaking.
"He's my brother."
Kannei and Shuutai had taken Shuyu to her room and were now headed back to the throne room. The guards assigned to watch Shuyu's door would make sure she would not escape.
"I can't believe Shuyu-dono is a traitor," Kannei spoke. "I guess it's true when they say it's always the ones we least suspect."
"...Is she a traitor?" Shuutai asked.
"She admitted that she was meeting someone in secret, and you saw how Zangetsu-sama reacted."
"Well as much as I don't want to question Zangetsu-sama's judgment, but he hasn't been behaving like his usual self. Actually, he's behaving like too much of himself."
"What do you mean?"
"He's become obsessed with capturing Saver, to the point of neglecting his sleep. I know he tends to overwork himself, but this is too much."
"So you don't think he's thinking straight."
"His heart is in the right place, I'm just not sure if his head is."
Minamoto whistled as he walked up to the gate of the palace. He had his hands in his pockets to keep them warm and his hood up. He was really looking forward to seeing his brother and could not wait to see the look on his face.
As he arrived at the gate, the guards crossed their spears across it to stop Minamoto from going any further.
"What business do you have here?" Guard #1 asked Minamoto who lowered his hood and smiled.
"I'm here to surrender myself to Armored War God Zangetsu. I was the one behind the explosions at the ceremony and the docks," Minamoto confessed with his head down, falling to his knees and presenting his arms out in a show of submission. "Take me to your leader or I swear I'll blow something else up!"
That was a threat neither of them could ignore.
"...Your brother?" Sonken asked after a long pause. The shock of finding out their enemy was her own fiancé's brother had stunned her momentarily. She certainly had not expected that to be the identity of their enemy. She believed Saver to be some kind of sadistic monster-he had to be when he was in the Armored War Devils' ranks-but to find out he was her beloved's own flesh and blood was a huge shock.
"Your brother!?" Ryomo cried. While she had not met or seen Saver personally, she knew enough about him from Sonken. The guy was scary. It shocked her to learn that the man threatening the kingdom during the Tiger Festival was none other than the White Devil's own brother.
But how could an Armored War God have a Devil for a brother? It did not make a lick of sense!
"Yes," Masataka answered, feeling guilty. It was his own brother who was behind the terrorist attack at the opening ceremony.
"How can you be sure? How do you know it's not some kind of deception?" Sonken asked.
"That's what we're going to find out, Renfa-sama," Masataka answered. "Now let's go say hello. He's waiting for us at the door."
This was going to be a very awkward and uncomfortable reunion for the Miyamoto Brothers.
Minamoto was still on his knees in front of the guards, surrendering himself to them. The guards were about to pick him up and take him to Sonken when the queen herself and Masataka arrived to see Minamoto kneeling in front of the gate.
Masataka's eyes widened when he saw Minamoto and Sonken could see the family resemblance. Minamoto looked like Masataka, but younger with lighter hair and green eyes. He did not wear glasses like his brother and seemed unperturbed.
"Sonken-sama! Zangetsu-sama!" the guards both stood at attention.
"Is that him?" Sonken whispered to Masataka and he nodded. "I see. I notice the resemblance."
"So the Queen and her Knight have honored me with their presence!" Minamoto quipped with a smile. "I'd stand and bow, but I'm currently surrendering myself to you."
"Quiet, you!" Guard #1 snapped.
"Take him to the dungeon and lock him in chains. Make sure you search his pockets too," Masataka ordered. It might seem cruel but he was not taking any chances. Even if Minamoto was his brother, he was still a terrorist. "I'll come down to speak with him later."
The guards grabbed Minamoto by his arms and escorted him to the dungeon, but the smirk never left his face as he winked at him, which bothered Masataka.
"So, he's surrendered. That means that it's over, right?" Sonken asked hopefully.
"No, it's too easy. He wouldn't do this if it wasn't part of his plan. He's up to something. I just know it."
"Are you sure you even know what his plan is?" Sonken questioned.
"That's what I intend to find out," Masataka decided. He was going to get to the bottom of this. "You should speak with Shuyu-dono to get her side of the story, Sonken-sama. I'll deal with my brother."
Masataka headed down to the dungeon to see Minamoto. The last time Masataka ever saw his brother was before he made his decision to return to this world, even though he knew it might be permanent. He accepted the fact that he could never go back and see his brother and grandfather again. He did not expect for Minamoto to end up in this world too and become his enemy as well. Even if Minamoto was his enemy, he was still his brother, he was still family.
But Minamoto was now a threat to Masataka's new family here. He would need to be dealt with. When Sonsei was revealed to be a traitor, Sonsaku had her executed even though she was her aunt. Masataka was aware of Sonsaku's zero tolerance for traitors, an approach adopted by everyone in her court. But, Masataka could not do that to Minamoto. Minamoto may have tried to kill him before, but he could not bring himself to put his own brother to death even with the seriousness of his crimes.
Masataka cleared his head. Getting overly emotional would do him no good. He was here to question Minamoto and get some answers. The ultimate punishment for Minamoto would be decided afterward with a fair trial, but even Masataka could see things weren't looking good for him. If Minamoto could provide Masataka with some kind of explanation, then maybe Sonken could show him mercy.
Masataka felt responsible for his brother, so Minamoto's life was essentially in his hands. It might be hypocritical of him to want to spare Minamoto even though he swore he would do anything to protect Son Go and the royal family, even if it meant dirtying his hands, but killing his brother was a line he could not cross. After their parents abandoned them, Masataka swore to take care of his brother. Now he was stuck between his loyalty to his brother and his loyalty to Sonken.
Honestly, it was much easier when the monster did not turn out to be his own family. Masataka wondered if Nagata ever experienced such a betrayal. Masataka would ask him if he wasn't already dead.
Masataka swore he would protect Son Go and the royal family, he just never thought it would ever be from his own family. Masataka was no traitor, but right now he felt he would be betraying his oath if he let Minamoto go. However, on the other hand, if he allowed Minamoto to be put to death, then he would betray his family and he could never forgive himself.
He would betray someone either way.
What a dilemma.
Just as Masataka instructed, the guards had put Minamoto in a cell and chained him to the wall by his wrists. They also searched his pockets, finding only a satchel of money, his LockPhone, and nothing else. That was pretty much everything he had on him. The Lockseeds he had taken from his brother were not on him, but the absence of his SengokuDriver just seemed odd to Masataka.
Maybe Minamoto was trying to convince them that his surrender was sincere, but to come without his SengokuDriver just seemed strange when he could've just surrendered it when he gave himself up. This did not sit well with Masataka as things were not adding up.
But Masataka had other things to worry about besides a missing SengokuDriver.
"Leave us," Masataka ordered the guards. He wanted to do this privately.
"We'll be at the door if you need us, Zangetsu-sama," one of the two guards on duty in the dungeon informed the White Devil before they went to wait at the dungeon's entrance. Now that they were left alone, Masataka could chat in private with his brother.
"Thanks for the hospitality," Minamoto said.
"So it really is you, Minato," Masataka responded. "I almost didn't believe it."
"You sound surprised, Onii-chan."
"Honestly, when I figured it out, I wanted to be wrong," Masataka confessed. He recalled Saver's behavior, how cruel and sadistic he was. How he did not care about the lives of his own men. He really did not want to believe it was his own brother. But facts were there, and here he was. "You turned yourself in? Why?"
"To see you," Minamoto answered calmly.
"The guards told me you threatened them at the gate," Masataka said.
"Well, when you threaten to blow something up people are easily convinced to listen to your demands, especially when they think they might get blown up too," Minamoto responded casually. "So, this is supposed to be an interrogation, right? Do I need to be in chains for a simple questioning?"
"Knowing what you can do, I didn't want to take any chances," Masataka responded. He was referring to Minamoto's ability to teleport. The only limitations he had was that he would teleport anything that was in physical contact with him. Keeping him in chains was to secure him and prevent him from escaping.
Masataka was not entirely sure if Minamoto could teleport without his armor, but why leave it to chance?
"So it'll just be you, huh? I won't be getting the 'good cop, bad cop' treatment then," Minamoto quipped.
Masataka ignored the quip and began questioning his brother.
"You sent a suicide bomber to the Tiger Festival's opening ceremony, did you not?" Masataka asked.
"Oh, you know the answer to that. But I'll tell you why, though. I needed to make a loud statement and it seemed to have worked," Minamoto answered nonchalantly.
Masataka's eyes narrowed. His brother had just admitted to causing the deaths at the opening ceremony, yet he showed no remorse.
"Why are you in the kingdom?" Masataka asked.
"Oh, you know me. I can't pass up a good festival," Minamoto answered. Masataka knew that was true. Minamoto loved festivals since their childhood.
"Why did you get close to Shuyu-dono?" Masataka questioned.
"Oh, she told you that, did she?" Minamoto returned innocently.
"I asked her who she was meeting and she told me her friend's name was 'Minamoto'," Masataka responded. "I mean seriously, that's the best you could come up with?"
"I thought it was clever," Minamoto said with a shrug.
"You used a portmanteau of our surname and your given name as your pseudonym. I wouldn't exactly call it clever," Masataka remarked flatly. Minamoto's real name was 'Minato Miyamoto'. Not only was his alias unclever, but 'Minamoto' was also used by Masataka's brother when he played the MMORPG known as 'Blade Quest Online'.
"Meh, everyone's a critic."
"Why did you get close to Shuyu-dono?" Masataka repeated his earlier question.
"OK, that was not planned. I just saw a gorgeous woman sitting alone at the bar and thought she could use the company. We only talked, shared some drinks, and pretty soon we were sharing a bed." Minamoto grinned. "And let me tell you something, Onii-chan, she's one freaky tiger in the sack! Total wildcat!"
Masataka covered his blush. He did not want to think about Shuyu so indecently, but then he remembered how she looked naked when he originally saw her during their embarrassing first meeting. Yeah, she had a great body, which was probably the reason why Minamoto decided to approach her for some company.
Masataka had a reason why he wanted to speak with Minamoto alone. As their enemies were capable of manipulating and brainwashing their victims into becoming their loyal followers, he believed that maybe his own brother could just be enthralled by them. He heard that the Chou Sisters and Marcus had once fallen under Ukitsu's spell, and Sousou had also been a victim of his mind control as well. So, Minamoto was likely just another helpless victim in all this, being used by their enemies as part of a plan to hurt them with their own loved ones.
"Are they controlling you?" Masataka asked.
"What makes you think I'm being controlled?" Minamoto returned.
"Because the group you're with, if it's the same group that's running this Genesis cult, are not above using mind control on their members," Masataka explained.
"Look me in the eye. Do I look like I've been brainwashed?"
Minamoto's eyes did not look dull and soulless, but looks could be deceiving. Still, Masataka had to be sure.
"Why did you turn yourself in?" Masataka asked.
"You asked me that already," Minamoto reminded.
"I know. I just want to know why you really turned yourself in."
Masataka found it strange that Minamoto would give himself up like that, but then the elder Miyamoto remembered that his younger brother was not working alone. He had Majin Gaim with him at the docks and Gaim's dark doppelganger was likely still present in the kingdom. Perhaps Minamoto just gave himself up knowing his cohort could come and break him out at any time.
Minamoto's composure began to change as he hung his head. He then looked up at Masataka. The confidence he showed before had faded, replaced by fear and desperation.
"I need your help, Onii-chan. I never wanted to hurt anyone. Please, you have to believe me. What happened by the docks was just an act."
Masataka knew it. Minamoto was being threatened and forced to work for Ukitsu. Minamoto was forced to create this persona and act like some kind of diabolical terrorist, but he was just a scared kid being forced to hurt people against his will.
Minamoto was a victim and Masataka wanted to save him, not just because he was his brother, but because he was someone who needed to be saved.
But a suspicious part of Masataka remained doubtful. Saver's act seemed genuine, like Minamoto's right now. Nevertheless, Masataka still needed to give his brother the benefit of the doubt, if only just to solve this case.
"Don't worry, Minato. Whatever trouble you're in, I can help you get out of it. You just need to trust me," Masataka said reassuringly. "First, tell me how you got here."
"They just grabbed me and told me if I didn't do what they said, they'd kill me. I had no choice."
"I believe you, Minato. When I tell Sonken-sama what is really going on, I can persuade her to show some leniency."
"Thank you, Onii-chan. I just can't believe..." Minamoto's pleading look soon turned into a sinister expression of sadistic glee, fixing Masataka with an intense glare. "...I can't believe how stupidly sentimental you are." Masataka frowned, a part of his suspicions vindicated that it had all been an act, but a part of him still ached and he forced the pain down. Minamoto continued to mock him, "I can't believe you bought that crap of a sob story! Really? How gullible are you? I mean, wow. Just wow, even after all this time and all it takes is just a few crocodile tears to make you fold."
Masataka regained his composure. He would not let Minamoto get to him. Honestly, he thought his brother would show remorse for his actions but he was just hoping for too much.
"Where are the rest of them, Minato?" Masataka questioned.
Minamoto tilted his head to the side, feigning ignorance.
"You gotta be more specific, Onii-chan."
"Your explosives. Where are they?" Masataka asked again, more insistently.
"Oh, you're talking about those. What makes you think I didn't just blow them all up by the docks?" Minamoto retorted.
"Because you wouldn't just waste them all like that. Those weren't the only ones you had, were they?"
"Well, you got me there," Minamoto affirmed, seeing no reason to lie.
"Where are they, Minato?" Masataka demanded.
"And ruin the surprise? Figure it out, Onii-chan. After all, you're the smart one," Minamoto taunted.
Masataka gritted his teeth in frustration. He wanted to go into that cell and shake the answers out of his brother, but that would only cause Minamoto to clam up entirely.
"Why are doing this, Minato?" Masataka asked, wanting to know Minamoto's motives.
Minamoto's expression changed as his eyes narrowed dangerously and his lips widened into a vicious grin. He looked positively demonic and what he said to Masataka shocked him.
"Why? You have the nerve to ask that? You really don't get it, do you? Well, let me spell it out for you! I'm doing all this because of you!" When Masataka heard this, he wanted to rebut, but Minamoto would not allow him to interrupt and continued, "You practically raised me, Onii-chan, after they left us. I thought you would always be there for me but then one day you decided to leave without a second thought and you abandoned me like our parents abandoned us!"
"Minato, it's not like that!" Masataka denied. He needed to be here to protect Son Go and the royal family. "I had no choice when it happened."
Minamoto laughed bitterly in response.
"Oh, I know you didn't have a choice the first time but then you decided to come back to this place! It's quite ironic since you spent so long hating our parents for leaving us only to abandon me just like them! You're just a damn hypocrite! After our parents abandoned us, you promised you would always stay with me, but then you left me behind like they did, and for what!? So you could play hero like some kind of glorified LARPer!? So people would worship you!? So you can be married to some queen!? What about me!? Tell me, did you even think about coming home after the first time you were displaced here!? Or did you decide to forget about it and me!?"
Minamoto took a deep breath before his next words came out harsh, cold and calmly.
"Everything I've done, Onii-chan, is because of you, and I can't wait to see the look on your face when everything you've built here burns to the ground."
Masataka was completely shaken as the color drained from his face. He turned away from Minamoto to address the guards who were standing by the exit.
"Report to me everything he does, and I mean everything! I want to know when he eats, when he sleeps, coughs, sneezes, and even when he uses the toilet! Do you understand?" Masataka instructed the dungeon guards.
"Yes, Zangetsu-sama!"
"OK, I'll just hang around until you come back. Bye-bye, Onii-chan!" Minamoto called as Masataka hastily left the dungeon.
Shuutai was waiting for Masataka outside the dungeon when she saw him. His skin was pale and he appeared to be freaked out. He looked spooked like he had seen a ghost.
"Zangetsu-sama, what's wrong?" she asked him. "Are you okay?"
"I..." Masataka started as he removed his glasses to rub his eyes with his thumb and index finger. The look of distress and uncertainty never left his face as he looked at her. "...I don't know."
He did not recognize the person in that cell. Whoever that person he spoke to was, it was not his brother.
Meanwhile, Sonken and Ryomo stood in front of Shuyu's room. As she was under house arrest, she would not be allowed to leave. Guards were posted in front of her door to prevent Shuyu from escaping and any unauthorized entry.
Sonken was having a moral dilemma. Shuyu's treachery was merely suspected right now, nothing was confirmed yet, but she knew Minamoto, aka Armored War Devil Saver. That was enough to possibly suspect that she was conspiring with him, but that was all it was, a suspicion.
Shuyu was loyal to Son Go and she had been Sonsaku's lover when she was alive. Ever since Sonsaku's death, Shuyu was very critical of Sonken's rule. Deep down, Sonken suspected that Shuyu did not see her as a worthy successor to the throne, and sometimes Sonken had her doubts she was as well.
But this was not about Sonken's worthiness to be queen. This was about Shuyu and her alleged crime of treason. Sonken just hoped Shuyu had a good explanation that could clear her name. Sonken did not have the heart to put someone who was like family to death like her sister did to their aunt.
"Thank you for coming with me, Ashe," said Sonken gratefully. She was going to confront Shuyu but she could not do it alone. She would've done this with Masataka, but he was questioning his brother in the dungeon.
"It's no problem, Renfa-sama. If you need help, I will jump in for you," Ryomo replied.
Sonken nodded and then turned to the door. She took a deep breath to center herself.
"Let me through," Sonken ordered the guards. They obeyed and opened the door for her so she and Ryomo could enter. They saw Shuyu sitting on her bed and she looked unhappy and Sonken could understand why. The strategist was being accused of treason, which was a very serious crime.
The punishment for treason was death.
"Shuyu...Meirin..." Sonken said softly.
"What do you want?" Shuyu demanded, not even looking at Sonken or Ryomo. She was definitely upset about being accused of being a traitor. She had always been loyal, so this was humiliating for her.
"I just want some answers," said Sonken. "That's all."
"Why bother? It's already decided. I'm a traitor, aren't I?" Shuyu spat.
"That remains to be proven," Sonken responded.
"Shuyu-sama, please. We want this matter to be resolved as much as you do. So, please answer Sonken-sama's questions," pleaded Ryomo. She had great respect for Shuyu. When Ryomo was just starting out as an apprentice strategist and advisor to Sonken, Shuyu took her under her wing.
"Very well. Ask me anything," Shuyu allowed, willing to open up to them to prove her innocence.
"Were you aware that your friend, Minamoto, is actually a member of the terrorist group responsible for what happened at the opening ceremony?" Sonken asked directly.
"No, I was not aware of this," Shuyu answered after a beat, surprised that her casual lover was involved with that incident. "Is this true?"
"According to Masataka-kun, it is," Sonken affirmed.
"And you believe him?" Shuyu continued.
"Yes, I do."
Sonken trusted Masataka, so of course, she believed him. Although, not a whole lot was adding up. It was why Sonken was here, to get answers.
"When did you first meet Minamoto?"
"I met him the night before the first day of the Tiger Festival," Shuyu answered truthfully, not seeing any need to lie. She had nothing to lie. "We met at a tavern." Well, she could lie a bit. Technically, she met Minamoto in a brothel, but she was not going to let anyone know that. It was embarrassing, especially the times she had to chase some guy off for thinking she was a prostitute. Honestly, she could not blame them. She knew she was attractive and she used it to her advantage during negotiations. Men lost their focus when they were looking down her dress.
"And he was the reason you returned late the following morning," Sonken continued.
"Yes," Shuyu confirmed. The cat was out of the bag already, so she could not deny she had relations with Minamoto.
Sonken wanted Shuyu to move on and Sonsaku would want her to move on as well. Life goes on and nobody could wallow in misery forever. Sonken and Sonshoko had mourned the loss of their sister too, but even they moved on so they could feel better.
But Shuyu was not healing. She had gone to bed with a man she just met at a tavern and that was not exactly what could be called a healthy behavior, especially when her bedmate was a terrorist.
"And then you met him again," Sonken stated.
"I did. He was a pleasant company," Shuyu replied.
"And what did you do with him?" Sonken asked.
"We talked and drank, and we even shared a bed."
"So, you did not reveal any secrets to him? None at all?" Sonken questioned.
"No, I did not. All I did was vent out my frustration to him and he would listen," Shuyu answered defensively. "Why do you think I would reveal any secrets?"
"Well, you were drunk..." Sonken murmured.
"Listen, Sonken-sama. I am no traitor. I may have slept with him, but I have not conspired against you or this kingdom," Shuyu told Sonken firmly. "This is all just a misunderstanding."
Sonken nodded. It did sound like a misunderstanding. Shuyu just got into bed with the wrong man without realizing who he really was. That made sense.
"Why did you jump into bed with him?" Sonken asked. She knew the answer but she wanted to hear it from Shuyu.
"I...was drunk...and lonely..." Shuyu confessed, her resistance failing as she exposed how emotionally vulnerable she was. "It hasn't been easy since Sheren died and I wanted to find some companionship, at least for one night."
"You could've talked to us," Sonken said kindly.
"It was something I needed to do myself," Shuyu replied. "So, who is Minamoto really?"
"He's Masataka-kun's brother."
"I knew it." Shuyu almost felt like laughing. It was staring her right in the face and she had missed it. "So that's why I saw a resemblance. But Minamoto and Zangetsu's familial relationship is not the reason you suspect me for committing treason now, is it?"
"It's not that. Who you befriend or sleep with should not be any of our business, but this is a bit more complicated than you just sleeping with a terrorist who just happens to be Masataka-kun's brother."
"What do you mean?" Shuyu asked. It seemed like grave news so she prepared herself. She could take it.
"Masataka-kun's brother, Minamoto, is Armored War Devil Saver," Sonken stated.
And so another bomb was dropped, this time on Shuyu. She was so surprised that her glasses nearly fell from her face.
"…I'm sorry, could you repeat that?" Shuyu asked after a moment of stunned silence. She must've misheard. "I could've sworn you just said that...Minamoto...is Saver."
"Minamoto is Saver," Sonken confirmed, echoing Shuyu.
"No, no, there's no way that can be true," Shuyu denied shakily. When she was told he was responsible for what happened at the opening ceremony, she just thought that he was just some kind of lackey. That was already pretty bad, but to learn he was Saver, an Armored War Devil, well that just made things worse.
The Armored War Devils were dangerous. They were monsters in human skin, clad in the same armor as the Armored War Gods.
And Shuyu had slept with one.
What had she done?
"It's true, because he confessed," Ryomo affirmed.
"He confessed?" Shuyu repeated in disbelief. "Wait a minute, you mean he's here?"
"He is and he also surrendered," Ryomo asserted. "Right now, Zangetsu-sama is questioning him."
"Minamoto is Saver," Shuyu murmured, feeling dizzy and a bit ill from the revelation. "I-I need to sit down."
"But you're already sitting," Ryomo pointed out. Shuyu was already sitting on her bed but that did little to placate the strategist. She had gone to bed with a terrorist and an Armored War Devil. She would've called them out for making the whole thing up, but they were not lying. She felt nauseous as she had done things in bed with Saver, things that only she and Sonsaku had done, intimately.
"What...what have I done?" Shuyu uttered in horror, guilt, and shame that were all mixed up in a blender to create a very disgusting mix.
She felt like throwing up.
"Shuyu, it's not your fault," Sonken consoled. "You were vulnerable and he took advantage of you."
"I was so stupid! I let my guard down when I thought I met a nice guy! Then I gave him my body!" Shuyu exclaimed, ashamed of herself. "You should kill me now!"
"Shuyu, I can't do that. I won't do that," Sonken stated firmly.
"Sheren would, and you should too, because I betrayed her, and you know what happens to traitors." Shuyu now had tears of shame running down her lovely face.
"It has not yet been decided if you're a traitor," Ryomo jumped in. "And based on what you just told me, you only happened to meet him. What happened here is that you met someone, but he was the wrong sort and he took advantage of you while you were at your lowest. You're not at fault, Shuyu-sama."
Wasn't she?
"So, what happens now?" Shuyu asked as she twiddled her fingers.
"Now...now we wait for Masataka-kun so we can decide what to do with Saver," Sonken answered. Minamoto should be executed for his crimes, but he was also Masataka's brother, which only complicated matters.
The parade was already underway and it was quite a sight to behold as Taishiji's troupe marched rhythmically down the street. It was a treat for the citizens who had come to watch as they stood all lined up on either side of the street. There were guards posted as well, looking out for any trouble that may need preventing.
There were dancers dancing a delightful dance, drummers drumming on their drums dramatically while accompanied by symphonic cymbals, and flag twirlers twirling their flags fantastically. With bright costumes accompanied by upbeat music, the anxiety that hung in the air seemed to evaporate.
At the head of the parade was the lion dance and both Natsu and Fuyu were giving the crowd a show as they led it, performing with the other lion dancers. Natsu definitely loved the attention he got, and so did Fuyu who shared his brother's love for the performing arts. Leading the parade with the lion dance was Taishiji as she carried Son Go's flag while twirling it.
She was the troupe master. Where else would she be but at the front of the parade?
Standing in the crowd was Sonshoko and Rikuson who seemed to be enjoying themselves. With everything that had been going on, it was nice to have something bright and colorful to see. It made everyone happy as they forgot their troubles just for this moment.
"It's too bad that Renfa-neesama and Zan-niichan are missing this!" said Sonshoko.
"Indeed," Rikuson agreed. It really was a shame that they all couldn't be here to enjoy the parade. She heard from Fuyu that he would be performing the lion dance and she smiled when she caught a sight of the lion.
"Hey, Rikuson," Kogai greeted as she came up to Rikuson and Sonshoko.
"Kogai-dono, you're here too?" Rikuson asked, surprised to see her.
Kogai took a swig of wine from her bottle then wiped her mouth.
"I didn't want to miss the parade," Kogai informed the busty strategist. It was not just Rikuson's lover who was in the parade, but Kogai's as well. Kogai noticed Sonshoko standing beside Rikuson. "I see you even brought the little princess with you."
"Zangetsu-sama promised to take her to the festival, but he could not because of his duties, so I decided to take her instead."
"That's nice of you. Sensei's been pretty busy with this whole 'Saver' situation."
"I heard he's been pretty obsessed with it since Sonken ordered him to handle the matter."
"Yeah, he was so obsessed that he stayed up all night without any sleep," Kogai confirmed. "Seriously, Sensei works way too hard."
"It is one of his qualities that are both good and bad. He's a hard worker but he pushes himself too hard," Rikuson remarked.
"Yeah, and it's a shame he's at the palace with everyone else. They're all missing this."
"Sonsaku-sama would've loved to see this," Rikuson mused.
"Yeah, she would," Kogai agreed.
Sonshoko wished everyone could be here to enjoy the parade. Perhaps when she gave Sonken and Masataka the bracelets she had bought for them, she could tell them all about her day and the parade.
And even though they missed the last day of the Tiger Festival, there was always next year.
The parade continued uninterrupted. The guards kept their eyes open but saw no sign of any terrorists in sight. There was not even anyone acting suspiciously. All they saw were people enjoying the parade.
It appeared it would be a quiet day.
If the guards had paid better attention, they would've noticed that some members of the performance troupe had glowing red eyes.
That was when a huge explosion hit right in the middle of the parade.
KRC: Well, Saver/Minato "Minamoto" Miyamoto turned himself in, but it just seems too easy. What is he up to? Well, we know he plans to destroy Son Go to get back at his brother, but how can he do that while he's locked up? Oh, right. He's got people on the outside and they were hiding in the parade. They just blew it up. Literally. Can't wait to see Masataka and Sonken's panic when they realize Sonshoko is out there. But will Minamoto get out and have a chance to see the carnage? Well, guess we'll have to see it real soon. Oh, and Buster, do you have anything to say about this chapter? Any thoughts? Also, I put in some subtle references if you can catch them.
Also, a message to Gundam Ibo: Sometimes, criticism can be taken very negatively, especially by those with fragile egos. But I would like to thank you for removing me from your list of worst toku-mentality fanfic writers. I can understand that, but I'm glad to know that you believe I've improved. So, thanks for that. Anyway, maybe I can reply someway.
Maybe on forums, perhaps?
BL92: I have a bad feeling that Saver's up to something and in his mind he would say, 'death is only the beginning'. Also, what Minamoto did to the guard is giving me the creeps like he's a vampire.
TFP: The climax has come and Minato has begun the final phase of his plan. It seems he has truly drifted to the dark side if he has started killing so easily and draining them of their blood like a blood-sucking vampire. Shuyu seems to be in the hot seat, connected to Saver as she is now. She seems to have a plausible excuse, but in such times of turmoil and doubt, will 'plausible' be enough to exonerate her?
Minamoto stood in his cell, chained to the wall. The chains were not too short to hamper his mobility, but they would make sure he would not get very far if he tried to escape. At least he wouldn't have any trouble going to the toilet, but couldn't they have given him something besides a wooden bucket to do his business? Had it even been washed recently?
He had nobody to talk to or entertain him, save for the two dungeon guards, but they were busy playing mahjong and they also had rice balls to snack on. Well, since he had nothing better to do, he might as well get their attention.
"Excuse me!" Minamoto called to the guards who occupied themselves by playing mahjong. "Hey, excuse me! Hello! Hey! Hey! Listen! Hey! Listen!"
"What do you want?" Dungeon Guard #1 snapped in annoyance.
"Could you give me one of your rice balls?" Minamoto asked. "I'm starving."
"Um, no," Dungeon Guard #1 refused, taking a bite out of a rice ball to Minamoto. "These rice balls are for guards only. You'll get your food soon."
"Geez, and here I thought I was an important prisoner. So no VIP treatment then?" Minamoto complained. "So, is there anything happening right now? There's a festival right now, right?"
"There's a parade. Unfortunately for us, we're going to miss it because we're stuck here guarding you." Dungeon Guard #1 sounded really unhappy about this and for good reason since he wanted to be anywhere but here right now. The dungeon had been empty before they locked Minamoto here. If there had not been anybody to guard, then he and his buddies would be out there, enjoying the last day of the festival.
"Oh, I'm sorry to hear that," Minamoto apologized, but he did not sound sorry at all.
"Shut up and don't talk," Dungeon Guard #1 ordered. He did not care if the prisoner was Zangetsu's brother. He was just a criminal that deserved to be locked up.
"How could Zangetsu-sama have a brother that's so evil?" Dungeon Guard #2 asked.
"I don't know. Maybe he was dropped on his head too many times when he was a baby."
"Can that really mess with someone's head?"
"Sure it can. I have a cousin who got hit in the head one too many times, and he was never the same again."
"Is this the same cousin who performed on the street by breaking boards with his head?"
"Hey! Hey, listen! Hey, hey, look at me!" Minamoto called to the two guards.
"I told you to shut up!" Dungeon Guard #1 snapped angrily, waving his spear in front of Minamoto's cell. "Wait, how did you get out of those chains?"
"Magic!" Minamoto claimed, waving his hands in a flourish, now free of his chains. "Do you want to see another trick?" he asked as his eyes glowed red.
"What are you doing?" Dungeon Guard #1 demanded when Minamoto's eyes glowed like that. Suddenly, Dungeon Guard #2 drove his spear into Dungeon Guard #1's stomach, much to his shock.
"Why...?" Dungeon Guard #1 asked as he was betrayed by his partner before he collapsed on the floor and started to bleed out. Dungeon Guard #2 then grabbed the keys and let Minamoto out.
Once he was out of his cell, Minamoto knelt over the dying guard as blood pooled around the poor man's body.
"Just relax. It will be all over soon," Minamoto told him soothingly. Then, all of a sudden, he plunged his hand into the dying guard's chest and the man gasped as he felt his life being drained from him. As Minamoto squeezed the guard's heart, streams of blood flowed from his chest and into Minamoto's mouth. The guard started to become skinnier and skinnier until he was nothing but skin and bones. Minamoto continued to drain him until there was nothing left as he dried up like a prune before his body crumbled into a pile of dust.
Satisfied with his meal, Minamoto stood up and swiped his hand across his waist, materializing his SengokuDriver as it appeared out of red flames. He went to address Dungeon Guard #2 whose eyes glowed red much like his own, but they were also dull and lifeless.
"Tell my brother to come meet me on the roof," Minamoto ordered. Dungeon Guard #2 bowed as he complied before he ran off to fetch Masataka. Minamoto smirked. "The fireworks should be starting right about now." He snatched the plate of rice balls from the guards' table before he vanished, leaving red mist lingering in the dungeon.
