Reviews:
Furyuu: You know, we'd like that. We just need to learn Japanese so we don't mess up.
KRNexus: Thanks very much.
Pikatwig: Glad we could make you laugh from this.
HackerEX: Yeah, he had a 'sheltered' childhood to a certain extent.
Ushindi: 1: Overall, they're awesome. 2: Depends, it's either Evolt or Ohma Zi-O. 3: No, I haven't. Grey do you want to take this one? 4: Yes, I thought the ending was sad as hell. Fuck ZAIA. 5: *raises devil horn hand gesture with a smile*
Makosultima12: Dude, we're going to make sure that Gai gets his just desserts.
Spidey Viewer: Thanks for your kind words mate.
Shooting Star Dragon 3000: Ooh! I'm excited for it to appear again too. Yeah, the fainting bit was fun to write.
Guest 2, chapter 5, Sept 22: There are not enough fingers, but I'll sum it up as thus: Grey and I are NOT going to ditch writing Saber to go fuck off to write a movie so that the project we're working on suffers.
KoutaMamba24: There might be elements of Hiden Bodyguards, but mostly it's its own thing.
Here are reviews from our own GreyKing46:
furyuu: Might be problematic. We don't speak Japanese.
Pikatwig: Okay... No. In every level fucking no. Yua had ZERO romantic interest in Amatsu and if you... Sorry, sorry. I'm calm now.
The reason Yua was so loyal is that that is how work/jobs in Japan works. She is loyal because if she isn't, she is literally throwing her entire life away.
HackerEX: More that he rushed through school and skipped so many years that by the time puberty hit he was finished with school and no one around his age was looking at him 'like that'.
Ushindi: 1- it was lazy. It makes sense thematically, but they should have at least changed the eye colour to help show how it's a new power.
2- Evolt because black holes. Unless you count Oma Zi-O as a dark rider.
3- that is a fan made form. It has nothing to do with cannon.
4- I already mentioned this
5- good so far.
Makosultima12: We already SAID we weren't going to redeem him!
Spidey Viewer: Arguing implies aggression. They were debating their points.
Hiden Bodyguards was us going full Fanfiction crack fun to test certain elements. As well as how we would write the story and how we do some stuff.
Also, what're the problems with RealXTime? Sorry dude you said you had problems with it and didn't mention anything. You're leaving us hanging, we aren't psychic.
Sep 22 c5Guest 3: ... No? There was no terminator reference? The hell were you talking about?
Shooting Star Dragon 3000: As far as you know.
Sep 22 c5Guest 2: Too many problems. Saber has way too many.
Sep 22 c5Guest 1: Corruption and Redemption arcs are only good if either of them is written well.
Ohma flame: No Rider has EVER done a move like that. And if they did it would technically fall under a finisher name like "Rider Throw".
/ / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / /
Kamen Rider Zero-One Revised
Chapter 5: Progrise the three gather
Co-Writer GreyKing46
We do not own these characters. All rights belong to Shotaro Ishinomori, Ishimori Productions and Toei Company
It was the following day. Aruto was fussing over his suit as he was told to wear. There was an important morning meeting that was scheduled, and he needed to make a good impression since meeting the board.
"Hold still, President Aruto." Izu urged, doing up the president's tie for him.
"I'm sorry. I just. This is a big day and I'm worried I'm going to mess it up." Aruto admitted as Izu finished. "It's the first time since the will that I've met the Board and-"
"President Aruto." Izu spoke, interrupting him. "You are going to be fine." She patted down his lapels, looking into his eyes reassuringly.
Aruto had to wonder why his grandfather made a robot that looked like... this to be his secretary.
"There." She smiled as she took a step back. "You look prim and proper."
Aruto was wearing a black suit with a white shirt, a red tie neatly tied up and black trousers, however, he was still wearing his neon-yellow and black sneakers.
He was still Aruto Hiden, after all. He still had a bit of a flair.
"Thank you, Izu." He took a calming breath and nodded. "I think...I can do this."
"I know you can, Sir." She smiled and gestured to the door. "I shall be by your side. But I cannot interfere."
"I. Y-You can't? I-oh. Okay." He answered nervously and walked out of his home's door where a limousine was waiting for them.
"President Aruto." The driver spoke, waiting for him.
"Thank you." He bowed, entering calmly as he could.
"Miss Izu." The driver bowed.
"Thank you." She smiled, going into the other side.
The driver got into his seat and drove to Hiden Intelligence through the traffic and the sights of the city.
"It's going to be alright, President Aruto."
They drove away, silence filling the air between them.
Aruto was fiddling with his coat still, his eyes flicking to Izu again and again. He had a lot of questions about the secretary.
'Oh god, Izu. Why were you made like this?' He thought nervously, getting flustered by her just by being there.
She was... why?
Why did she look to be around his age? Why the super loyal personality? Why that outfit? Why was she so intent on using the most formal and professional dialect and support?
She was originally his grandfather's secretary, right? Why did he design her that way?
'She's...God.' He thought as he looked nervously at her.
Why did his Grandfather make her look so cute?! What the hell?!
Izu looked at how Aruto was fidgeting, seeing how nervous he was. Her scanners saw that his heart was elevated, and his fingers were twitching.
"Are you okay, President Aruto?" She asked.
"Huh? Oh. Um. I-I'm okay." He 'lied', trying not to see her cute features. "I'm just...nervous."
She reached over and held his hand. "It's okay. I'm here."
"Yeah. I know." He nodded "... Thanks for all the help, Izu." He smiled.
Izu respectfully nodded and smiled.
Moments passed as the limo drove to Hiden Intelligence. "President Aruto, we're arriving at the company." The driver spoke.
"Thank you." Aruto answered as they soon parked up.
As they stepped out, Aruto felt a bit more at ease. He was at his grandfather's company...his company. A place where the future could be made. Both Izu and Aruto walked inside, where he saw HumaGears guarding the entrances and working at the reception area. "President Hiden." The employees respectfully acknowledged him.
"Hi, everyone. Good morning." Aruto waved as he and Izu walked towards the elevator. "Hi, hi, hi, good morning." He rattled off, trying to greet literally everyone.
Izu saw this and nodded gently, seeing Aruto doing his best to make everyone feel welcome.
However, upstairs in a room, Mr Fukuzoe and Shesta saw this. "Shesta, did you see that?"
"Yes, sir."
"It seems our 'President' is making a good impression of being late. And finding time for the employees." Mr Fukuzoe remarked. "I can only imagine what he was doing." He looked down at Aruto, feeling disappointed. "Who knows what he does with that secretary model."
"Are you saying that President Hiden is taking advantage of his station?" Shesta asked, her headphones whirring.
"I want you to observe him, Shesta. Any slights that he makes, report them to me." Mr Fukuzoe answered.
"As you have said before, Mr Fukuzoe." Shesta bowed.
"I refuse to let him make a mockery of this company." He said seriously.
Shesta understood what he meant. She was also concerned about the future of the company, since Aruto didn't have the knowledge or experience to run such a scale of operations.
She didn't see him as a bad person but being given such power at such an age without any training just screamed the definition of nepotism in her database and was a clear trajectory for something horrible happening. As the Vice President's secretary, it was her job to make sure the company succeeded and would not be harmed, and so she knew something had to be done about the young Hiden.
She would do her best to make it painless.
"Hey Mamoru, how are you?" Aruto smiled, seeing the HumaGear at the elevator. Yellow scarf around his arm, training symbol still flashing beside his headset.
"I am very well, President Hiden." Mamoru answered respectfully. "I am still working hard.
"Great to hear." Aruto responded, patting his shoulder. "I'm glad you are okay." he nodded, hugging him lightly.
Mamoru blinked in shock as Aruto just hugged him. It was-It wasn't unwelcome, but it was a surprise.
"Let us go, President Aruto." Izu urged gently.
"Oh, sorry." Aruto apologised, breaking the hug and felt sheepish because of it.
They entered the elevator, being lifted and high into the building.
"President Aruto, I know you are happy to meet everyone, but please retrain yourself." Izu asked gently.
"Right. Sorry. I'm just happy to see Mamoru. Because of the Magia attack." Aruto explained.
"I understand." She nodded. "But you must be prepared for the meeting."
Aruto nodded and brushed himself down. "I know. I just...I hope I don't mess up."
Ping~
As the doors opened, Aruto and Izu walked through and headed to the board room. Aruto could remember it from the first time he was there. He had a knot in his stomach then too. Inside were the members of the board, heads of different departments and sections of Hiden Intelligence.
He walked around the rooms, all eyes on him.
It was like he was being judged and his feet felt like lead. "L-Ladies and gentlemen." He cleared his throat as he acknowledged them.
"President Aruto. You're late." One commented.
"I'm sorry. I was-" Aruto apologised.
"It's unbecoming of the President to be late for meetings." Another added. "What kept you?"
"Traffic." Aruto commented.
The board members returned to silence, knowing that it was a bad traffic day. But it was still an unacceptable means to be late as Aruto sat down at his seat, which was an inch or so larger than him.
"I'm sorry." Aruto repeated.
"Well, now that you're here. We can at least get down to business." A member of the board spoke.
"Yes." Mr Yamashita spoke up. "It's been brought to our attention that you, President Aruto, delivered a HumaGear to one 'Chef Nigiro' of 'Sincerity Sushi' the other day."
"Um-" Aruto quickly looked at Izu as he was put on the spot. "Y-Yes. That's correct."
"And gave it away for free, as well as a previous body that was destroyed."
"There were c-compli-" Aruto stuttered a little.
"So that's two HumaGears we have lost profits on." A board member interrupted.
"And how much is that compared to how much we make?" He argued "How much did we lose to make one family happy?!"
The board were surprised by the increase in the tone of their new President's voice. "There is also the fact of the increase of Magia."
"I know?"
"Even with the reassurance of Kamen Rider Zero-One, people are beginning to get worried." A board member added. "What are we gonna do about this?"
Aruto's mouth went dry, he felt like he was being cornered by all these people. Eyes looking at him with an intense glare. "I. I've said that...We-we're going to work with A.I.M.S."
"AIMS?!"
Aruto flinched back as he heard their immediate reaction.
"You're actively working with the people who think the HumaGears should be destroyed?" A board member snapped.
"That's like saying we're a food company in work with a rubbish company! People will see us in a negative light!"
"I-" Aruto tried to argue but was ignored and overrated.
Mr Fukuzoe was seeing this, this wasn't planned by him. This was all reactionary and the truth. Aruto had made choices that weren't advisable for the company. It was all inexperience that he was making.
Voices overlapped as the members of the board began to barrage Aruto with questions; Aruto getting worked up as he tried to answer them but was overwhelmed. How was he supposed to come up with all these answers?
He couldn't even keep up with the questions.
"E-Excuse me!" Aruto got up and almost raced out of the room, holding his head making everyone blink in shock.
Izu saw this and followed, having registered his heartbeat increase and because of the earlier stress from the morning. 'Oh dear.' Mr Fukuzoe thought to himself.
Shesta nodded, following as well.
Aruto had almost run out of the building through the halls because of that stress and 'assault' of questioning. He felt like his mind was on fire and he couldn't keep up with it all.
He was leaning against a wall, letting out deep and ragged breaths.
'I can't-I can't do this.' He thought, having nearly all his weight against the wall.
"President Aruto." Izu spoke up as she arrived at his side.
"I-Izu. I'm sorry. I guess I couldn't...I can't do something like that." Aruto admitted.
"You have been in front of people before when you were on stage and performing. Even during the news conference when informing people about Magia and MetsuBou JinRai. Why was this time different?" Izu inquired.
"It just is!"
Izu took a small step back from his reaction, seeing his heart elevated and how stressed he was. "President Aruto."
"What?" He looked at her before she gently put her hand on his back.
"Perhaps we can meet some employees. You seemed happier being with them than being in the boardroom." Izu suggested.
Aruto looked at Izu and began to slowly compose himself. "I. I think that'll be better."
Izu helped up Aruto to his feet, him using her as a 'crutch' as they walked off. Shesta remained at a distance but still kept an eye on them. 'President Aruto is leaving the company's area?' She thought, making notes on this.
*Elsewhere*
"Jin." Horobi called.
"Yeah, Horobi?" Jin leapt down from his spot and landed in the room. "What's up? New friends?"
"In a sense." He answered, pulling out three Progrise Keys. "But also 'old friends'."
Jin blinked as he took the offered items "But... Didn't we already use these Zetsumirise Keys?"
"Exactly. It's for added data. The Riders won't expect returning Magia." Horobi answered. "And the Ark requires more data from these keys, it did not get enough combat analysis from them."
"Oh, okay." Jin nodded and took the three Keys.
The Berotha, Kuehne and Pyren.
The three that began their journey would make a return.
*Elsewhere*
"Alright, Mr Fuwa, your arm has fully healed now." A doctor spoke as Fuwa went for a checkup.
"Thanks." He gruffly responded. "I can get back to work."
"Try to be careful with it." The doctor urged.
"I've got a tough body, doc. I'll be fine." Fuwa answered, walking out of the office.
"You should listen." Yua commented.
"Yaiba. You've been busy. Good job with that Magia." He commented.
"I've been working." she nodded.
"Any news on that Grasshopper Rider?" He asked as they walked together.
"If you've read my reports, then you'd know that he helped during the 'Neohi Magia'."
"'Ne-ho'? What is that?" Fuwa asked.
"An extinct animal. Specifically, a cephalopod or squid." She answered.
"What are these Magia things?" Fuwa huffed "They all seem to be based off animals."
"Extinct animals." Yua answered as they entered the debriefing room where there was a chart of MetsuBou JinRai's current status with pictures of the various Magia they had fought. "All themed with their name. 'Metsubou' meaning 'Extinction'."
"These are the Magia you fought?" Fuwa asked, noting some of the new ones and the ones he fought.
"Correct." She nodded.
"Alright then. Let's get to work." He answered, looking over the notes and the information they had accumulated. "Aside from the obvious; what do we know about the origins of these forms?"
"You want animal history?" she smirked.
Fuwa scowled at her as he looked over the pictures. "These. Where did these come from?" He pointed to the waists of the Magia.
"We don't know yet, but it seems to be based on a transformation device. The Keys in the belt, seem to be based on Progrise Keys made by Hiden Intelligence." An AIMS member responded.
"They are called Zetsumarise Keys." Yua stated mysteriously.
"'Zetsu-'? Who names these things? It sounds like a kid with 8th grader syndrome." Fuwa commented, thinking back to his teaching days.
"The same person who designed the Progrise Key's and the basics of all our gear." She shot back.
"Meaning Hiden. It all comes back to Hiden." Fuwa glared. "All back... to DayBreak." he said darkly.
Yua noted how intense Fuwa was getting, and considering the severity of the source, it made sense not to pry.
She just put her RisePhone away and sighed.
*With Aruto*
Aruto was currently with some of the HumaGear down in the cafeteria, it was nice seeing them happy with their part in life. "Hey, everyone."
"President Hiden!" The HumaGear spoke and respectfully bowed.
"How's it going?" He smiled.
"We're doing well, Mr President. We were just making sure that the meals are prepared for everyone." One of the chefs responded.
"That's great." Aruto responded, feeling better and calmer. "You go and use data about people's health and taste buds to go and produce the best possible meals for every member of staff, right?"
"That's correct, sir." The chef answered. "Would you like something?"
"Yeah, sounds nice." He answered as Izu input the data.
"President Aruto, your choice has been selected." Izu informed.
"Ooh? Izu that right?" He smirked. "What is it? What's recommended?"
"A boiled butterbur shoot." Izu smiled.
"Eh?" He doubletook. "A boiled butterbur shoot?"
"One boiled butterbur shoot."
"Just one?" He almost fell. "Why?"
"One boiled butterbur shoot coming up." The chief nodded.
"No~!" Aruto cried.
"You have been eating quite a number of sweets and unhealthy items in your diet as of late. A boiled butterbur root is what you need to feel more energised and healthier." Izu explained.
Aruto lowered his head as he heard that. Izu knew him just as well as he knew himself.
"But why only one?" He grumbled "That won't fill me up."
"There are weekly recommendations, President Aruto." Izu informed, showing the menu to him.
"Oh, let's see...Ooh, that looks nice. Meat and vegetable stir-fry." He smiled. "How's this? I'll have the boiled butterbur and the stir-fry?"
"Coming right up, President!" The chief smiled.
"A good compromise," Izu responded.
"I know." He answered. "Thanks for helping me, Izu."
"Of course, President Aruto." She bowed.
Aruto was soon sat at a table with his meal before him, seeing the different employees walking around the building calmly.
"Hmm~, smells delicious." He smiled and began to eat the meal before him. 'It's nice seeing everyone here.' He thought as he looked at the employees.
Humans and HumaGear, working together.
This was the dream his grandfather wanted, both sides working and living together. Bringing the future ever closer.
He blinked, seeing a few HumaGear by themselves.
"Izu. Why are those HumaGear by themselves?" Aruto whispered to Izu in concern.
"It seems that they are talking among themselves, Sir. Possibly from other departments." Izu answered.
Aruto looked over and picked up his tray, walking towards them. "Hey." Aruto greeted.
"President Hiden?" The table gasped.
"Do you mind if I sit with you?" He asked. "If I'm not imposing."
"Of course, Sir. Please." Two HumaGear shuffled upwards so that he could have a seat.
"Thank you." He responded. "How are you all? It seems you're on your own."
"We were just discussing changes in our jobs, how we can improve." One of the HumaGears answered.
"Oh? Let me hear it." Aruto smiled "I'm sure I can help."
"Are you sure? We don't want to take up your time." Another HumaGear answered.
"Don't be. I want to make this place as best as I can make it." Aruto responded. "I'm happy to help." He smiled proudly.
"Well. We want to try and take turns making deliveries. Put us on a rotor so that our co-workers don't have to remain sitting in one space for hours at a time." The HumaGear answered.
"Bad posture is terrible for the spine, especially if it's for hours at a time." Another agreed. "However, we can help lighten the load of those driving while they can help load and unload back here."
Aruto nodded as he started to listen, time ticking by as they all bounced around ideas on how to improve their work.
In fact, some other HumaGears had joined because of how passionate the talk was. They were bouncing so many ideas around, Izu was taking notes from her table.
Shesta was observing this, seeing how strongly Aruto was working towards an equal Hiden Intelligence.
It was... Strange. He was somehow more... Calm? Comfortable.
She had never seen the young President in such a manner. And it was literally the exact opposite of how he was in the meeting.
'This is illogical. How can he switch from anxious and tense to relaxed in such short of time?' Shesta thought to herself.
"Oh, sorry guys. I should probably get going." Aruto commented as he saw the time.
"Of course, President Hiden. Thank you for listening to our suggestions." The HumaGears and some humans responded, bowing to him.
"Any time." He bowed back.
Izu got out of her seat, following Aruto out of the cafeteria. "That was good, President Aruto."
"Yeah, I know. I just...I wanted to help." Aruto nodded.
"President Aruto!" A worker called and rushed over to him, seeing Aruto need the elevator.
"Y-Yes?" Aruto asked, nervous almost instantly.
"I need to talk to you." The worker responded, not out of breath, but needed his attention.
"Okay!" He squeaked.
"President Aruto, in regard to the functionality of different departments and updates; where do you think attention needs to be brought to?" The worker asked.
"I-er-well..."
Izu wanted to step in, seeing how he was struggling. "President Aruto will get to this matter soon. He is currently on important business around the building."
"Right, right, sorry."
"Um. If-if you want to send me the info...Send it to my desk. Okay?" Aruto nervously responded.
"No worries."
As the elevator dropped to the cafeteria floor, Aruto and Izu soon entered, and the former began to sigh heavily. Bombarded with hard questions again as they were alone. "Izu...I'm worried."
"You were much more at ease with the HumaGear employees." Izu noted.
"I guess."
"If I may offer some advice, President Aruto. It will be beneficial if you take some time to talk to some human employees." Izu offered.
"I know, it's important to know." Aruto agreed but covered his face. "Just..." He sighed, unsure what to do.
Izu went to his side and patted his shoulder gently. "You will do well, President Aruto. There may be a lot to be expected of you, but you will persevere."
"Can I have a minute?"
"Of course, sir." She nodded, retreating her hand and let Aruto think in peace.
She entered the elevator, heading upwards.
Aruto waited and thought about what he was supposed to do. Listening to people, being yelled at, making tough decisions for entire departments, having to come up with answers for everyone. He walked around randomly, hands in his pockets.
'What am I going to do?' He thought as he walked through and out of Hiden intelligence.
He needed fresh air.
As he walked outside, he could feel the chilled air fill his lungs, his mind slowing down. 'Grandfather...What should I do? being Zero-One and helping HumaGear I can do but...being a president? I've managed not to screw up because of how busy I am.'
CRASH!
"Owie..." A young-sounding man grumbled.
"Hey, are you okay?" Aruto asked, going over to him.
"Yeah, I'm fine." The young man reassured. "Just landed on my butt."
"Here, let me help." Aruto nodded.
The young man was wearing a pink hoodie, black trousers and mismatched shoes, long hair that covered his eyes.
"Come on kid, let me help you out." Aruto encouraged.
"Oh, err. Thanks." The young man answered, taking Aruto's hand and brought him to his feet. "Um, who are you?"
"I'm Aruto." Said person, responded.
"I'm Rin." The young man responded. "I was just looking around."
"That's cool." Aruto nodded.
"Do you work here?" Rin asked, looking at Aruto.
"Yeah. Yeah, I work here." He nodded.
"Do you want me to show you around?" Aruto smiled.
CRASH!
"Gah!" A HumaGear yelled as he accidentally dropped a box of supplies.
"Hold on!" Aruto called, rushing over. "What happened?"
"I-I lost my footing. I-I'm sorry, Sir." The HumaGear apologised.
"No, no, it's fine!" He encouraged. "Let me help!"
"Th-Thank you, Sir." The HumaGear appreciated it and was helped up.
"Are you okay?" Aruto asked.
"Yes. Yes, Sir." The HumaGear answered.
Rin was seeing this, seeing Aruto help the HumaGear without worry. It was...strange to him. Why was this human so nice and helping?
Both Aruto and the HumaGear picked up the boxes from the ground and carried them back to the doors where other employees were working. "Are you going to be okay?" Aruto asked.
"Yes, Sir. Thank you for helping me." The HumaGear appreciated it.
Rin was seeing this, seeing Aruto helping the HumaGear it was good. It was strange but good.
But... Weren't humans supposed to be evil?
"Give me a heads up if you guys need anything," Aruto spoke as he waved towards the workers.
"Thank you, Sir!" They responded.
"I'm sorry, I had to help." Aruto apologised to Rin.
"It's... fine?" He blinked.
"So, do you need any help? Where were you trying to get to?" Aruto asked.
"Um, well...I was just. Just looking around." Rin answered. "I wanted to see Hiden Intelligence."
"Oh, cool." He nodded.
"I wanted to see...what happens in here. I thought HumaGear were...Slaves." Rin asked.
"What? No, no, no. That's the farthest thing from what we do here." Aruto answered.
"Really?"
"We make HumaGears here, but we treat them with respect. We help show them their jobs and give them homes." Aruto responded. "They are our friends."
"Friends?"
"It's part of our motive. 'To Take Off Towards A Dream'. And the dream of the company is to bring unity for Humans and HumaGear." Aruto explained. Aruto then grinned, winding up his arm for one of his jokes "And with HumaGear working with humans, I am sure we will humour-seeya a bright future! HAI! Aruto ja~ Naito!"
...
The two stood in silence for a moment as Aruto pointed at Rin, the air still.
...
"Bwahahahahahaha!" Rin began to laugh, holding his gut.
Aruto's eyes widened and jaw dropped. A full belly laugh? And by a stranger?
WAS THIS REALITY?!
At one of his jokes?!
What the hell?!
"I-I can't-! Bwahahahaha!" Rin gripped his stomach and tried to stop. But that had to be the funniest thing he had heard. "So good! Hahaha! Brilliant!"
Aruto almost lost his footing. He was smiling as he heard that, seeing someone laugh at his jokes. Like someone hadn't had a good laugh in a long time.
It was... what he wanted for forever!
"Hoo...Okay. Okay, okay. Hoo. I'm good. Hee-hee-hee." Rin began to calm down. "Thanks for that."
"No problem." Aruto smiled gently. "Um, do you...want that tour?"
"You sure you haven't got anything else to do?" Rin asked.
"I. Yeah. I do. I'm busy, sorry." Aruto apologised. "But...all this actually helped me."
"Really?"
"Yeah, I've been struggling today. And...I think you've given me the motivation to do a good job." Aruto smiled. "Thank you, Rin."
"It's fine." He nodded.
"Will I see you around?" Aruto asked.
"Err...Maybe." Rin nodded. "Later." He waved and went off, as Aruto walked back inside.
Rin rushed off as quickly as he could, ripping his hood off after getting around the corner.
And it revealed that it was Jin! He held his head in shock at Aruto...Him being Zero-One, the enemy of MetsuBou JinRai and Ark's Will...and being so dang funny.
And... Was everything he was told by Horobi wrong? No, no way!
It had to be right. Horobi was always right!
Ark had to be right.
The Magia were meant to liberate HumaGear, to free them from human's cruelty.
He pulled out his Zetsumarise Key's, his hands shaking.
'A-Am I doing the right thing? Zero-One. He. He didn't seem bad.' He thought, gripping his head.
Suddenly his eyes widened, the communication device Horobi gave him beginning to ring.
"H-Hello?" Jin picked up the device and answered it.
"Jin, what is happening?" Horobi's voice spoke through the device. "What is taking so long? The keys have not been activated yet."
"W-Well, that's. Um. There's been a slight hiccup. And-"
"Inexcuseable!" Horobi snapped.
"Gah!"
"Did you forget that this is Ark's Will? How important this mission is?" Horobi snapped. "It's what we were created for!"
"I-I haven't forgotten." Jin stammered as he became defensive.
"...Good. Good, Jin." Horobi calmly praised him. "Send in the Magia. Each in different locations. Cause as much freedom for the enslaved HumaGear as possible."
"Y-Yes, okay Horobi."
"Remember, this is-" Horobi spoke.
"Ark's Will." Both repeated as Horobi cut the line.
Jin sighed and looked at the HumaGear who were working on the loading area...and held the Key in his hand.
*with Aruto*
Aruto was back inside Hiden, feeling a bit of vigour back in his stride as he headed for his office, unaware that Shesta was still tailing him.
As he approached the elevator, he saw Shesta in the reflection, making him turn around and caught her trying not to notice. "Shesta? Are you okay?"
The very serious secretary's eyes widened as she was found out, stumbling back in surprised shock.
"Yes, President Hiden. I am fine." She answered seriously, trying to save face.
"Is something the matter?" He asked.
"No, Sir. I was asked by Mr Fukuzoe to find you, the board were concerned for your storming out of the meeting this morning." She 'lied'.
"Oh... Sorry about that."
"Where is Izu?" Shesta asked. "Is it not a secretary's job to be by the President's side?"
"I asked for a minute alone, I needed some fresh air."
"Ah, I see." She responded.
"But I think I'm ready to go and face the board again." He answered. "Damn... I just wish I could speak my mind properly."
"It's just... I feel so awkward about this. I know I'm a comedian, I am used to performing in front of crowds. But that involves a planned routine, rehearsal. Practice. Carefully crafting the best response. Yeah, there is some improvement in there as well, but the outline is there. But this is so... There is no safety net. I am thrown into this headfirst."
"I see, President Aruto." Shesta responded. "You are not used to being 'in the spotlight' in this scenario."
"I guess." He shrugged "Plus it is always a bit... Weird talking to other humans. At least with my... Condition."
"You mean growing up with HumaGears instead of people." Shesta inquired.
"Yeah, that to." He nodded casually while rubbing his neck.
"I believe that you will overcome this stigma, President Hiden. It comes with time." Shesta offered her thoughts. "But maybe seeing the members of the board as HumaGear would help your nerves?"
"Huh. Didn't think of that. Thanks, Shesta." He smiled.
BOOM!
"What was that?" Shesta exclaimed.
'Oh no.' Aruto thought in shock. "Shesta, evacuate everyone out. And make sure you don't get caught!" And he ran outside to the source of the explosion.
He ran, following the noise... Only to freeze as he saw them again.
"But... We beat you already!"
His eyes widened as he saw the three formerly destroyed Magia. The mantis-like Berotha, the deer-like Pyren and the flying reptile Kuehne Magia.
"I need to get them away!" He immediately went into action and attached his Zero-One Driver to his waist.
ZERO-ONE DRIVER!
JUMP!
He brought out his Progrise Key and scanned it over the scanning section of his belt and ran towards the Magia.
Authorise!
"HENSHIN!" Aruto proclaimed as the Grasshopper crashed down to the ground and digitized over him.
RISING HOPPER!
He was already in the air as the transformation ended, kicking the Berotha Magia in the face.
"HA!"
The Berotha Magia rolled onto the floor, ignored by his fellow Magia who ran in and began to attack Aruto.
The Pyren Magia rushed forward with its antler head down. Aruto knew that he couldn't take this Magia head on, but he couldn't let it rampage around the Headquarters.
BLADERISE!
Aruto had pulled out the AttacheCalibur and used it to hold back the Pyren Magia, holding its growing speed and dug his feet into the ground.
The Kuehne Magia leapt into the air, circling around the site and struck down as the Berotha Magia got back up and ready to carve its blades into Aruto's back.
"Gah!" He yelled in pain, feeling the blades cut into his back.
"Hum4n5 mu5t D13!" The Magia proclaimed as they fought Aruto three on one.
"No. Can't. Can't let that...happen!" Aruto grunted. "I'll stop you!"
Aruto's eyes glowed for the briefest of seconds, gripping the AttacheCalibur and slashed upwards, carving one of the Pyren's horns off and cut into the Kuehne Magia's torso. He rolling-jumped over the Magia and landed on his feet as the two crashed down.
BANG!
BANG!
Two bullets rushed through the air, spiralling around one another. They zoomed, towards Zero One.
"Huh?" Aruto blinked, his voice echoing slightly as an orange bullet slid past his right cheek guard and a blue bullet brushed by his left antenna.
BOOM!
BOOM!
The two Magia behind him were blasted in the chest, knocking them back.
The two bullets whizzed past him and aimed right for the shooters, where the bullets separated into fragments as Fuwa and Yaiba stood there.
SHOOTING WOLF!
RUSHING CHEETAH!
Both Valkyrie and Vulcan had arrived to 'back Zero-One up', but more likely, they were there just for the Magia.
"AIMS!" Aruto cheered.
"Zero-One! Struggling protecting yourself?" Vulcan called out, shooting at the Kuehne Magia. "Pathetic."
Valkyrie rolled her eyes and aimed for the Pyren Magia. "I've got the deer. Take out the mantis."
"Right." Aruto nodded with a smile "Thanks." He stood up, the three standing side by side. Vulcan on the left, Zero One in the middle and Valkyrie on the right "Here." He stated, holding the AttachéCalibure to Vulcan.
"Don't you need it?" Vulcan asked.
"You need it more. It's a cut above the rest." Aruto quipped.
Vulcan blinked for a moment before he doubled over, his body quaking as if in pain.
"Look out!" Valkyrie called out, the Magia lunging at them, with the Kuehne Magia going down to Vulcan while she dashed at the Pyren Magia.
"Got it!" Zero-One responded, leaping at the Berotha Magia. He gave a harsh side kick, the grasshopper foot overlapping his own as he smashed his foot against the Berotha Magia's chest.
CRASH!
"Over here!" Valkyrie called out, distracting the Pyren Magia with her speed, shooting at its feet to disrupt its speed.
Fever!
Quickly pulling the trigger of her ShotRiser once it was docked, being surrounded by an orange aura. Ripping the ShotRiser off its dock once more she rushed forwards, a blast of super speed pushing her faster than normal.
Fuwa grabbed the AttacheCalibur and gripped it tightly, slashing the stupid flying Magia.
The Kuehne Magia dodged around the slashes, using its flight to get out of the way. This 'stupid human' couldn't hit a flyer with a ground weapon.
'Blasted-!' He thought angrily and ejected his Key from his belt.
BULLET!
And almost jammed it into the slot in the Attache Calibur.
Progrise Key Confirmed Ready To Utilize Werewolf's Ability
...
"Werewolf?!" Fuwa blinked in shock, a slight about of disbelief at the same time ... "Ah, whatever." He shrugged, gripping the weapon tightly.
The Kuehne did a somersault before lunging down at Fuwa, its clawed hands and feet ready to connect with his body.
Fuwa almost broke the button on the Attache Calibur's grip and slashed hard, creating a large neon-blue data-stream of a blade's outline right at the Kuehne as it got too close to dodge. "HRARGH!"
SHOOTING KABAN STRASH!
The Kuehne Magia was caught in the full slash, exploding as the belt and Key around its waist was flung far away from the fight as the main body of the Magia was destroyed.
Yua and the Pyren Magia were running around, trying to hit each other.
'This little punk!' she thought angrily. 'It was like this last time.' As she let loose a barrage of bullets at the Magia who seemed to halt and do a sharp ninety degree turn to run right at her.
SLASH!
"G4h!" The Magia yelled as Fuwa cut across its back.
"Yaiba, now!" Fuwa called out as the Magia began to fall out of its stride.
"Right." she nodded, docking her ShotRiser into her belt.
DASH!
Yaiba had pressed her Key's button, the belts normal standby chime filling the air. Crouching a bit, preparing her leverage, before she flicked the trigger of her ShotRiser
R! U! S! H! I! N! G! B! L! A! S! T! F! E! V! E! R!
Orange energy emerged from Yaiba's belt, the energy whirling around her, before the power was all absorbed into her armour. The bronze of her armoured leg began to glow and pulse with energy, Yaiba pushing herself into the air with a mighty push of her leg.
She jumped high into the air, shifting her form, before she came rushing down. She had her right leg extended, revealing the cat paw detail at the bottom of her foot, as she came down like a glowing bronze comet at the Pyren Magia.
RUSHING BLAST! FEVER!
BOOM!
The Pyren Magia exploded into pieces, the belt and its Key clattering away as both AIMS agents had finished their end of the bargain.
"What the hell is Zero-One doing?" Fuwa asked, wondering what was keeping him so long.
In Aruto's fight, Aruto was learning more about this Magia. It was strange, it had evolved somehow. Its movements seemed more fluid, aiming more with close-quarters combat than using its energy scythes for long range attacks.
Luckily, Aruto had the perfect counter for this...
FANG!
SPLASH!
"A SHARK?!" Fuwa called.
AUTHORISE!
"Let's go, Sharky!" Aruto spoke as he replaced the Keys.
PROGRISE!
The mechanised shark swam through the water and leapt through the air, chomping at the Magia before digitizing over Aruto.
KIRIKIRIBAI! KIRIKIRIBAI! BITING SHARK!
"Hoo!" Aruto got into a martial artist's pose and rushed forward. "This digital shark will take a byte out of you!"
Fangs That Can Chomp Through Concrete.
"He can change forms?" Yua blinked, her eyes glowing a bit.
Fuwa was grunting, gripping the Attache Calibur tightly at Aruto's quip. He acted mad.
Aruto leapt out and began to strike at the Berotha Magia, true his abilities were lowered on land, but the attack strength made up for it.
SLASH!
SLASH!
CHOMP!
Aruto had closed the gap between him and the Berotha Magia, using his fins and legs to slice into the controlled robot.
"Here we go!" Aruto called, kicking the Magia away as he pulled out the Rising Hopper Key once more.
"What?" Yua blinked. "What is he doing now?"
Aruto took the Key in his hand and scanned it over the area to Authorise it. But instead of hearing the same sound, it was different.
Bit-Rise! Byte-Rise!
"What the-?" Fuwa gasped as he heard that.
Aruto grinned as he slotted the key into his hip holster, slamming his hand into the Biting Shark Key.
B! I! T! I! N! G! B! Y! T! E! I! M! P! A! C! T!
Aruto leapt through the air as the Magia got back to its feet and saw the outline of a mechanical shark slicing down at him, chomping hard on its body with a menacing bite.
BITING BYTE IMPACT!
BOOM!
Aruto skidded to the floor, maintaining his dignity as the Magia was destroyed and its Belt and Key flew off into the distance. "Wahoo!" He cheered "I really had to sink my teeth into that one!" He smirked, his eyes flashing as the Magia exploded behind him.
Vulcan gripped the Attache Calibur's grip hard as he heard that, almost doubling over...which was interrupted by laughing from a distance.
"Huh? Who's there?" Yua asked in confusion.
"A civilian?" Fuwa turned as he was brought out of his rage and went in that direction.
"Rin!" Aruto gasped.
"'Rin'?" The AIMS agents asked in confusion as Aruto ran towards him.
"Hey, you okay?" Zero One asked... And stopped as he saw the person's hood down "Wait, you?! The Metsubo Jinrai member?!"
"Ha-ha-huh?" Rin, or should we say Jin, looked up at Aruto as he was calming down from laughing. "Z-Zero-One? I. Err."
He took a step back, gulping in worry.
"Why?" Aruto asked, holding back anger. "Why did you send those Magia?"
"I...It's because. It's Ark's Will." Jin gulped, feeling cornered.
"'Ark'?" Aruto asked in confusion. "Who's that?"
"It. He's. He created us. For HumaGear freedom, from the tyranny of Humans."
"Jin, I told you, we're not like that." Aruto frowned.
"Shut... Shut up!" Jin snapped.
Aruto took a step back as he saw Jin becoming defensive. What was so terrifying about 'Ark' that made him this way?
Suddenly Jin rushed around with a streak of pink, grabbing the there's Zetsumarise Key's.
"Gah! Jin, wait!" Aruto called out, seeing the gale-wind rush through the field and took the Keys but it was too late.
Jin had vanished, catching the AIMS duo off guard as the Keys were gone, but the belts remained.
Yua walked over, picking up one of the fallen Zetsumariser's "Well. At least we have something to analyse."
"Zero-One. How do you know that guy?" Fuwa ordered, demanding answers and pointed the Attache Calibur at Aruto.
"I met him a while ago. He works for Metsubo Jinrai. I met him when he attached one of those belts on a HumaGear bodyguard here at Hiden." Zero One responded.
"These belts?" Fuwa glared, grabbing one and was about to crush it in his hand.
"Vulcan!" Yaiba called out. "We need those." She informed.
Fuwa growled and shoved the Attache Calibur into Zero-One's hands. "You better not be working with them."
"I'm not." Zero-One answered. "They are harming HumaGear's worse than any abusive human. Robbing them of their own free will, of their sense of self. Of their choice. I will stop them."
Fuwa glared at Aruto. "Alright. Fine."
"May I have one of those?" He asked.
"Why? What're you going to do?" Fuwa retorted.
"I'm going to inform President Hiden. He'll probably need to inform the people what the belts look like, so they know what to do." Zero-One answered. "I'm not going to have people think it's a new addition on their bodies."
"Well, there is only two left." Yua said as she cancelled her transformation, glaring at Fuwa.
"Alright." Fuwa answered, detransforming as well. "Take it."
Zero One nodded, grabbing one of the Zetsumariser's off the floor. "Thank you." Zero-One nodded, leaping away and headed inside of Hiden Intelligence.
"We should go." Fuwa grumbled.
Yua nodded, seeing Fuwa walking off as she carried the Zetsumirisers. 'What was that back there?' She thought as she vaguely recalled Fuwa doubling over.
'Why is that Zero One... Such a comedic genius?!' Fuwa thought as he remembered the jokes, holding back his laughter.
*Time skip*
It was the following day, Aruto was getting ready for the next meeting...and he had the Zetsumiriser in a briefcase ready. "Izu, it's okay."
"Please forgive me, President Aruto. I did not assist you in that last fight." Izu frowned, almost fussing over him.
"You were busy getting people out of the building." Aruto answered, holding her hand tenderly. "I'm just glad you and everyone are safe."
Izu felt Aruto's hand in her own and nodded. "Of course, Sir." She answered.
"Besides. I need you now." Aruto answered. "We've got another big meeting today."
"Rescheduled, yes." She nodded.
"Hopefully, this time it'll go better." Aruto hoped as Izu straightened his tie. "Ready?"
"Ready, sir." She answered.
Aruto nodded... And dramatically opened the door.
Inside the board room, the members of the board were there and they...looked as emotionless as before. Though some looked angry at him. "Finally, back, President Hiden?" One asked, feeling a little confident and defiant.
"Yes." Aruto nodded with confidence which honestly freaked out the board.
Mr Fukuzoe looked in confusion. Less than twenty-four hours ago, the young President was scared by bombarded questions...now he had a stride about him.
"Now, to a matter of important business," Aruto spoke, taking charge...which made Izu have a smile on her face.
And over by Shesta, there was a small creep of a smile on her face too. Though not as prominent.
"President Aruto...forgive my asking, but; what's in the briefcase?" A member of the board asked.
Aruto produced the case and opened it. Inside was the Zetsumiriser from yesterday. "The means of MetsuBou JinRai corrupting HumaGear. I haven't scanned it into Zea or the computers as I'm worried it'll corrupt them. But I'm going to make a statement with the press that this is the tell that HumaGears have become corrupted."
The board were stunned and shocked by it. This small device was the cause of it? They had seen the footage and pictures. But this was going to be a massive turn of the tides.
To be continued
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