For a while now, Kenzaki had kept his eyes on Koneko. While the small Kitten Imagin seemed harmless enough, it was her contractor that worried him. Koneko could possibly be a spy and using her cute appearance to fool them. It was possibly a façade to hide her true sinister personality. Maybe this stemmed from his distrust of Kat. Despite helping him save Neko, she only did it for her sister and not him. She hadn't even apologized for most of the things she'd done. However, she had apologized for causing the rift between Neko and Kenzaki. Kenzaki still doubted her sincerity and his suspicions were proven when the CCNS was formed to attack him. They were a bunch of like-minded groupies that idolized Neko, wearing cat ears and t-shirts with her face on them. It was disturbing. Like the KLLA, SSSS and LLRB Ryuji had to deal with they were still just a bunch of weaklings in comparison to him, a master of the GekiJyu Wolf-Ken.
As much as he wanted to believe that the little Imagin was harmless, the fact that she was created by Kat made it hard to accept. He had started to become attached to the little Imagin. It was hard not to. She was excitable and was so much like Neko, only smaller. It was just so hard trying not to like her. Koneko had even managed to get him to take her to a park at King's Terminal, just so she could go out and play.
Koneko was like the little sister Neko never had and the two were inseparable. It just made it all the more painful for Kenzaki since he was going to have a talk with Neko about Koneko.
"Ken-kun, what's wrong?" asked Neko, worried about her fiancé's silence.
"Hm…it's Koneko. I don't trust her," answered Kenzaki.
"What!? Why!?" cried Neko.
"Her contractor. As far as we know, she's a spy for Kat," answered Kenzaki.
"But Koneko-chan's harmless! She would never hurt us!" defended Neko.
"She APPEARS harmless," argued Kenzaki. "But she's still an Imagin and the fact that it was Kat that contracted her makes it all the more likely that she IS dangerous."
"No…she won't betray us. Koneko-chan…she is…my imouto."
"I know Neko, I know. But still, it's difficult for me to trust her…no matter how sweet she may be."
"Kat won't betray me, so Koneko-chan won't betray me."
"Yes, but Kat would betray me," countered Kenzaki.
"Ken-kun…if you don't trust Kat-neechan or Koneko-chan, then trust me," pled Neko.
"Neko," began Kenzaki, "You're one of the few people I do trust."
"Then trust me that Koneko-chan won't betray us. Please…don't send her away."
Kenzaki let out a sigh. "I never said anything about sending her away…I may not trust her, but that doesn't mean I don't like her."
"How generous of you, Kenzaki-sama. The young catgirl does love you both a lot from what I can see," said Gekiryuken.
"Well, she reminds me a lot of Neko…only smaller," explained Kenzaki.
"And Ojou-sama does seem happier with having a little sister that looks up to her."
"I do. I do," nodded Neko.
"Onii-chan! Onee-chan!" called out Koneko as she ran up to her beloved 'older siblings'.
"What is it Koneko-chan?" asked Neko as she hugged the little Imagin.
"I wanna go to the park and play!"
"Sure," Kenzaki smiled warmly as did Neko. "Let's go."
"Yay!" the little Imagin girl cheered before jumping onto Kenzaki and latching onto his back. "Piggyback! Piggyback!"
"THE 7 TASKS OF KENZAKI TSUKUBA"
It was a huge party in the DynoLiner's dining car as Loki tried to serve them as fast as he could. The results of the final exam had already come out and Ryuji and Kotonoha were celebrating. However, celebrating with them were the kings and princesses of the Demon and God Kingdoms. Also with them were Kenzaki and Neko who'd been invited to join in the festivities.
"That's my daughter!" howled King Eustace. "There's no test she can't pass!"
"But, remember, Eustace," said King Frederick as he reminded his friend, "My dear Rina got better results."
"Well, then all my daughter needs to do is catch up," countered Eustace.
"Want to make a bet?" challenged Frederick.
"Dad!" shouted Siera.
"Pop!" yelled Rina.
"No gambling!" the two princesses finished in unison.
"Aw…" the two kings frowned.
"Honestly," spoke Ryuji as he frowned. "They should act their age and their status." Seeing them right now made Ryuji respect them as kings even less and less. Luckily for him (or them) they weren't pressuring him into choosing their daughters to marry. It was actually kind of fun to have them here. No fights.
Kenzaki was in a rather foul mood. His fight with Kat didn't go as he thought it would…
"Kuso!" cursed Kat as she shook the unconscious and bleeding Kenzaki. "Wake up you idiot! Why the hell didn't you tell me your injuries were still that bad!? Oi!" Kat looked toward the doorway as Neko entered. "Crap…"
"KEN-KUN!!! Nee-chan, what did you do!?" cried Neko as she shoved her sister out of the way and cradled her fiancé.
"I challenged him to a fight," Kat tried to explain but then went silent at the look of fury etched on Neko's face.
"YOU CHALLENGED HIM!? He's still hurt from when Nanimo attacked him!" Neko used her phenomenal strength to lift Kenzaki up. "Help me get him to the infirmary."
"Oh, hai," Kat nodded dumbly. She then helped Neko carry Kenzaki to the medical car.
The fight was supposed to be Kat's chance to prove who was better, but with his injuries, Kenzaki had not been able to fight at 100 percent. Thus, he lost and Kat was winner. However, as much as she was a sore loser, she was also a sore winner. This victory did not count for her and she wanted a rematch once he recovered.
The train stopped and the door opened to allow a woman to enter. She was in her forties but was still elegant and beautiful, possessing fair skin, dark hair and storm blue eyes. She wore a purple business suit and skirt combo over a white shirt. Ryuji and Neko's eyes went wide as they smiled with glee. "Mom!" Ryuji exclaimed.
"Mama!" Neko yelled out as well. Both brother and sister then went to greet their mother.
"Oh, Neko-chan, Ryuji-chan!" Emiko Narukawa Hasuma smiled as she approached them. "It's good to see you again." She gave them each a hug. Smiling, Kotonoha too went over and bowed.
"It's good to see you again, ma'am," said Kotonoha.
"Oh, Kotonoha-chan," Emiko smiled. Ryuji had brought Kotonoha to meet with her many months ago and the matriarch of the Hasuma Clan had approved of her. With her husband's busy with his duties in the Celestial Realm, she was thus the Clan Head. "Please, there's no need to be formal. You may call me 'Okaa-san'."
"Hai, Okaa-sama," Kotonoha said with a blush.
Siera and Rina exchanged looks and smiled. Their chosen's mother was here. This would be their chance to make an impression and advance one step further. Of course, before either princess could speak, their fathers decided to speak with her.
"So, you're young Ryuji's mother," said Eustace with a grin. "I'm King Eustace of the God Kingdom."
"And I am King Frederick of the Demon Kingdom," the other king introduced himself. "And you are quite lovely, Hasuma-san."
Emiko blinked. "Call me Emiko." She turned to look at Ryuji. "Kings, Ryuji-kun?"
"It's a LONG story, Mom," answered Ryuji. "But, apparently, I'm engaged to their daughters."
"Engaged?" Emiko blinked. She finally noticed Siera and Rina. "You mean those two pretty girls? They're princesses"
"Yes." He sighed.
"Hi, I'm Rina. It's nice to meet you."
"Call me Siera. Greetings, Mrs. Hasuma."
Both princesses curtsied.
"May we speak in private?" Emiko asked the kings and they nodded. "We have much to discuss."
Neko watched as Emiko spoke with the kings before joining Kenzaki. She took his hand. "I want to introduce you to Mama."
"Is that a good idea?" asked Kenzaki warily.
"Why do you ask?" Neko blinked.
"Nothing, it's just a feeling…" Kenzaki had seen the way Emiko was looking at him. Obviously, she didn't approve.
Emiko was sweet to Neko, hugging the girl closed before kissing her forehead. Neko purred warmly, lavishing the affection. Emiko did eye Kenzaki with a hint of disdain before saying, "Neko-chan, do you mind if I spoke with Kenzaki-san alone?"
"Sure," smiled Neko.
Emiko and Kenzaki watched as Neko went to mingle with the others and out of earshot.
"So, you're the boy my daughter is enamored with?" questioned Emiko as she looked Kenzaki up and down.
"Yes, I am," nodded Kenzaki.
"I'll get straight to the point. She's too good for you, and I don't like you. I don't approve of this relationship, at all," said Emiko.
"Why does this sound so familiar?" sighed Kenzaki. "Big shock, ANOTHER member of the Hasuma family hates me. Get in line."
Emiko reminded, "Well, you did try to shoot her, all because of mistaken identity and a misunderstanding."
Kenzaki winced at the reminder. "Look, I'm tired of defending my actions on that day. But the fact remains, Neko imprinted on me."
"Yes, but as strong as it is, it isn't unbreakable," revealed Emiko.
"What?" asked a shocked Kenzaki.
"There is a way to break the imprint, and as a result the person loses their memory of the person they imprinted on."
"So, you're gonna severe the link between Neko and me?" Though he wasn't showing it, Kenzaki was terrified.
"If I must. However, I will give you a chance to appeal to me. All you have to do is to choose to accept or not."
"I'll do anything," said Kenzaki.
"Good. In one week come to my mansion. I have much to prepare. In the meantime, enjoy this party with my daughter…it may be your last," warned Emiko.
"This…is bad…" Neko's mom didn't accept nor approve of him and was challenging him to see if he was worthy. "And now…I need a drink."
Later, at a bar in the King's Terminal, Kenzaki was getting himself drunk at the counter when Kat came in and tapped her fingers against the countertop, making her presence known.
"What do you want?" asked Kenzaki. She was not the person he wanted to see right now.
"Hey, Kenny, mind talking over some chili cheese fries and ribs?" suggested Kat with a large grin on her face.
"That depends, did you poison them?" asked Kenzaki.
Kat looked insulted at that remark. "And waste tasty food? You nuts?"
"No, but you are," Kenzaki pointed out. "Just thought I'd ask."
"If there's one thing we Hasumas respect, its food. Poisoning food is blasphemous!"
"Fine, fine," said Kenzaki, waving her off. "I believe you."
Meanwhile, Neko had brought Emiko to the GaroLiner. She'd introduced her mother to the crew and told her about her job as a bounty hunter. Emiko listened and praised her youngest daughter sincerely for her courage. She didn't like how Neko mentioned Kenzaki in a positive light but kept her dislike hidden. Of course, introductions weren't done. There was still one more person Neko wanted Emiko to meet.
"Mama, I'd like you to meet Koneko-chan…" introduced Neko as she showed Emiko the Kitten Imagin.
"She is an Imagin?" questioned Emiko as she looked at the little Imagin.
"Yes, she's Nee-chan's but she imprinted on me," explained Neko.
Koneko looked up at Emiko. "Mama?" She then smiled widely. "MAMA!" she cried happily as she hugged Emiko, who hugged her back happily.
"And imprinted on you, obviously," chuckled Neko. Koneko was Kat's Imagin, so it made sense for her to also share some of Kat's memories.
"Oh, how precious!" cooed Emiko as she rubbed her cheek against Koneko's. Emiko always wanted more kids. "I could just eat you up you cute little furball!"
"Daisuki!" beamed Koneko.
Kenzaki told Kat, over a plate of chili cheese fries, what Emiko had said to him and Kat knew exactly what her mother meant.
"So, Mama is putting you through '7 Tests of Worthiness', huh?" asked Kat as she stuffed her face.
"7 Tests of Worthiness?" questioned Kenzaki.
"The challenge she made could only mean that," said Kat. "This must mean she wants you to REALLY prove yourself worthy of Neko-chan."
"If that's the case, then yeah, she is." Kenzaki questioned, "Any idea as to why she hates me?"
"Actually, she pretty much found about how you first met and tried to put a bullet in Neko's head."
"Hm, I wonder who told her about that?" said Kenzaki as he glared at Kat. It just had to be her.
"Hey, she could've asked the Titans!" Kat weakly tried to defend. Kenzaki didn't look convinced. "OK, fine, I told her! But she also asked Ryuki and he confirmed it."
"Yeah, but Ryuki doesn't know how Neko and I REALLY first met."
"Yeah, she told me…thanks for saving our lives," said Kat.
"It's what heroes do," shrugged Kenzaki.
"Well, anyway, she got all the info from me when I didn't like you. She has a lot of trust in me."
"OK, so, thanks to you, your mom hates me and is looking for any reason to destroy the bond between Neko and me? Wonderful, I finally get you off my back, and now your mom wants me out of the picture. What is it with your family and hating me?"
"Ryuki doesn't hate you and neither does Ryuji," corrected Kat.
"They did at first," retorted Kenzaki.
Kat sighed and spoke, "Well, I can try to tell her differently but since you agreed to take the tests, you're stuck with having to complete them."
"I didn't really have a choice in the matter at the time," growled Kenzaki. Had Kat told her mother the truth earlier, he wouldn't be in this mess. "So, given our past together, how do I know that this isn't just another plot of yours to break Neko and me up?"
"You know that I may lie, but I never break my word," said Kat proudly.
Kenzaki sent a look at Kat. "You'll have to forgive me if I don't believe you."
"Right, well, I wish you luck. You know, I always thought Neko and I could be happy together, just like when we shared the same body. But, I lost, to you. Goodnight," said Kat. And with that she left.
Kenzaki sat there for a moment before he realized that Kat left him stuck with the bill. "Figures…" grumbled Kenzaki.
"Mama wants to test you?" asked Neko. It was hours after the party and now Kenzaki wanted to speak with Neko about the upcoming tests. "And not just any test, but the '7 Tests of Worthiness'?"
"And in a week she wants me at your mansion to take them. Apparently, she has the same opinion of me as your sister. Meaning she'd love to see me dead," said Kenzaki.
"I don't believe she'd go that far," said Neko. Her mother would never wish that on anybody, unless they'd wronged her or her family.
"Trust me, Neko. I'm pretty good at reading body language and hers said, 'If I could, I'd kill you myself'."
"But she's giving you a chance, Ken-kun. What will you do?" asked Neko.
"I don't have a choice," sighed Kenzaki. "It's either I take the tests or I lose you."
"Ken-kun, considering all the challenges we've been through…" She took his hands in hers. "This will be the greatest of them all. I don't want to lose you."
"I don't want to lose you either. So, I'll go through these tests, and then your mother will have no choice but to accept me."
"I must warn you, Kenzaki-sama, that these tests will challenge your limits. Be prepared, for if you fail you stand to lose the most," warned Gekiryuken.
"Then I just won't fail," said Kenzaki. "So, what kind of tests will there be?"
"As the name implies, there are 7 tests," started Gekiryuken. "The Test of Truth, the Test of Courage, the Test of Windom, the Test of Loyalty, the Test of Emotion, the Test of Strength and the Test of Pride."
"OK…" nodded Kenzaki.
"Be warned that if you fail even ONE test, then you fail the entire thing and lose what's most precious to you," warned Gekiryuken.
It was a week later when Kenzaki and Neko arrived and were dropped off at the Hasuma-Narukawa Estate. With them was Koneko and she looked in amazement at the large property.
"Sugoi…" said Koneko. "Onee-chan, this is where you live?"
"Yes," answered Neko. "Come on, let me show you inside."
Kenzaki was about to follow when two women in black suits suddenly showed up. "Are you Kenzaki Tsukuba?" one of them a brunette, asked.
"Yes I am," said Kenzaki.
"You must come with us," said the blonde.
"OK," said Kenzaki. "Lead the way…"
Kenzaki was led into an office where Emiko was seated. She stood up and said, "So, you decided to come."
"I never decline a challenge," said Kenzaki.
"Well, you may want to rethink your decision once you meet who I have helping me," said Emiko. "Boys, you can come in now."
Kenzaki looked to his left to see another door open and three familiar young men entered the office. They were Yoshiyuki Takada, Ryuki Hasuma and Ichijyo Amakusa.
"It's been awhile, Kenzaki," greeted Ichijyo.
"Konnichiwa, Kenzaki-san," greeted Ryuki.
"Yo," greeted Takada.
Kenzaki looked towards Emiko. "They'll be helping you?" asked Kenzaki.
"That's right, and your first test starts now," said Emiko. "Takada-san."
"Hai!" Takada nodded.
"Where's Ken-kun?" Neko wondered as she was with Koneko. The Kitten Imagn was playing with some of Neko's old stuffed animals.
#1. THE TEST OF TRUTH
Kenzaki found himself strapped to a chair. His wrists were bound to the armrests and his ankles were bound to the forelegs of the chair. On his head was a helmet with a light bulb on top. Cables connected the helmet to a computer. Sitting across from him as Takada.
"You designed this, didn't you?" asked Kenzaki.
"Of course!" smiled Takada. "How did you guess?"
"The light bulb," said Kenzaki. "Thank god I can't feel pain."
"Oh, it won't zap you like my previous models. When the bulb turns red, it means you're lying and it will also show up on the screen. If it's green, you're telling the truth. Now, I got ten questions, just answer yes and no. "
"OK, shoot," said Kenzaki. He then thought over his words. "And I don't mean that literally."
"OK…" began Takada. "First one is…are you a virgin?"
"No, I'm not," answered Kenzaki. The light bulb turned green but Emiko, who was on the other side of the two-way mirror, didn't look pleased.
"Question 2: Are you a bounty hunter by choice?" Takada asked.
"Yes, I chose to be a bounty hunter." The light bulb is turned green.
"Do you drink?" asked Takada.
"Yes, I drink," answered Kenzaki as the bulb turned green
"Do you smoke?"
"I used to. I quit because Neko asked me to." The bulb again turned green.
"OK…" said Takada as he looked over the list. "Have you tried to have sex with Neko?"
Kenzaki hesitated. "No, I haven't." The light surprisingly blinked between red and green.
"Have you been tempted?"
"Yes, I have been tempted. But I would never force myself on her." The light became green.
"Have you ever hurt Neko?"
"I have never physically harmed Neko." Green light.
"How about emotionally?"
"I have…unfortunately" sighed Kenzaki. The light was green.
"Have you ever killed?"
"Yes, I have," nodded Kenzaki. Green light.
"Will you be willing to risk everything for Neko?" asked Takada, finishing off the list.
"I am willing to do anything for Neko," answered Kenzaki, his eyes full of conviction. Even Takada was convinced. The light shone green.
Emiko read over the results of the first test and was satisfied with most of the answer. Though she didn't like how some of the answers sounded, at least he was honest enough to answer truthfully. "So, he managed to pass…" She rubbed her chin thoughtfully. "Well, let's see how he handles the next test."
"You wish for me to test him next?" asked Ichijyo.
"Of course," said Emiko. "You are the best at intimidation and fear."
Ichijyo didn't like how that sounded but agreed. 'I sure hope he can survive what I'm going to put him through…'
#2. THE TEST OF COURAGE
The Test of Courage was next and was being administered by Ichijyo. For this test, Kenzaki was put in the interrogation from inside Smart Brain Tokyo. Kenzaki drummed his fingers on the tabletop impatiently as he waited for Ichijyo so they could start the test. The door creaked open and Kenzaki saw Ichijyo enter. "Took you long enough, said Kenzaki gruffly.
"I apologize for being tardy," said Ichijyo as he sat down across from Kenzaki. "By Mrs. Hasuma's request, I shall administer this Test of Courage."
Kenzaki nodded. "Alright, let's just get on with it."
"Please, be patient," said Ichijyo as he fixed his glasses. "Now, there's a reason this called is the Test of Courage. I'm going to go into your mind and find what you fear most and have you experience it. Whether you pass or not depends on how you come out of it. Are you ready?"
"Yes, I'm ready," said Kenzaki without even hesitating for a second. "Bring it on."
"Then…" Ichijyo's eyes turned demonic, with the irises red, pupils narrowed and the sclera turning black as darkness bled into them. His Mark of Sin was exposed and glowed bright red. "Open your mind to me!"
Neko was hoping, with all her heart, for the best. Gekiryuken had told her that the Test of Courage would be amazingly difficult for the challenger since they would have to face their worst fears and try to come out of it stronger.
'Kami-sama…please help Ken-kun.'
Kenzaki was breathing hard as he found himself back in the interrogation room.
"How do you feel?" asked Ichijyo.
Kenzaki glared at Ichijyo and growled, "I just witnessed the woman I love being torn apart by a part of my subconscious. How do you think I feel?" Kenzaki had seen horrible things. He'd seen Sauron taking control of his beast form and forcing him to kill Neko, over and over. It was his worst fear. However, he managed to, barely, break out and assume control over his fear.
"I'm sorry this affected you in such a way," said Ichijyo regretfully. He hadn't wanted to do such a thing, but it was Emiko's orders.
"Let's…let's just move on to the next test." He had little time to waste. Two down, and 5 more to go.
"Okaa-san," said Neko as she approached her mother. "Must you put Ken-kun through these tests?"
"If he wishes to be with you, then he must," said Emiko. "Don't you believe in him, Neko-chan?"
Neko didn't hesitate. "Hai, I do…"
Emiko stared. 'My daughter has a lot of faith in this one. I hope he doesn't disappoint me. It would be painful to separate my daughter from the one she loves.'
#3. THE TEST OF WISDOM
"Alright, Kenzaki-san," said Ryuki politely as he stood with Kenzaki at the entrance of an elaborate looking maze made using the Smart Brain's Danger Room. It was basically hard light holographic technology but looked convincing enough to be real. "This is the Test of Wisdom."
"What do I gotta do now?" asked Kenzaki. After the previous two tests, the next few were either gonna get easier or harder for him.
"You must enter this maze, and maneuver your way out. However, the exit is locked. On the door there's an old Hasuma Clan riddle. The exit will not open unless you answer the riddle," explained Ryuki.
"What else?' asked Kenzaki.
"You got only one hour to complete it," said Ryuki. "So, don't waste time. The clock starts as soon as you enter."
"Right!" said Kenzaki before he entered.
"And watch out for the traps!" Ryuki warned, but it was too late. "I sure hope he'll be alright."
Kenzaki, using his keen wolf-like senses, managed to maneuver his way through the maze. He did meet several obstacles in the form of traps like flying circular saws, laser guns with motion detectors, flamethrowers, robot drones and even a boulder following him. He, however, managed to survive but he had only 5 minutes left once he arrived at the exit.
The door had the riddle written on it, which read, 'It can be held, but not seen, it is contained but also freed, it is strong but also weak, it is powerful but also fragile.'
Kenzaki wracked his brain but he was running out of time. If he was unable to solve this riddle in time, he'd lose Neko, and if he answered wrong then he'd fail completely and ALSO lose Neko. He had to find an answer, quick. He only had 4 minutes left on the clock and he was slowly running out of time.
"What could it be…what could it be…?" Kenzaki asked himself. "Think, damn it!" He thought long and hard and was now left with less than 30 seconds. He then got the answer and shouted it out.
"THE HUMAN HEART!"
The clock stopped and the door opened. Relieved, Kenzaki walked out of the maze and one step closer to passing this test.
#4. TEST OF LOYALTY
Next was the Test of Loyalty and because of the venue, Kenzaki was taken to the Hasuma Ancestral Training Grounds via a private jet. Once there, he met with Kokoru Hasuma.
"OK, boy," said Kokoru. "This is your test. Neko is tied up in a cave on the other side of this field. All you have to do is save her."
"What's the catch?" asked Kenzaki suspiciously.
"Oh…just save her, and survive."
'Traps,' Kenzaki mentally guessed. From the look of the training grounds there could be a number of traps planted to hinder Kenzaki. This test would challenge how far Kenzaki would go to save her one he loved.
"Now, GO!" shouted Kokoru and Kenzaki was off. "Good luck, boy, you're going to need it."
Like in the previous Test of Windom, Kenzaki had to avoid a series of traps that would seem lethal to anyone but himself. Luckily, Kenzaki managed to get through without a fuss, having predicted when and where the traps would activate. He soon arrived at the cave and saw Kat standing guard at the entrance.
"Should've known," muttered Kenzaki. Kat would be the final obstacle in this Test of Loyalty.
"Sorry, Kenny," said Kat without a hint of remorse, "You wanna get in, you gotta beat me..."
"Sounds fine to me," said Kenzaki before he charged at her to fight.
Kat was using her best weapon too. She continued to taunt Kenzaki about how he wasn't worthy and how he would never be worthy of Neko. Kenzaki ignored her but then Kat hit a sore spot and mentioned how he could never save his family.
"You'll never be anything but someone so lowly and pathetic who couldn't protect his family! How can you think that you can protect Neko?" taunted Kat.
"ARGGGGGGGGGGGGGHHHHHHHHHH!!!" That just caused Kenzaki's bottled up rage to explode and he basically went berserk and started to beat Kat up with all his might and anger. Kat yelled out in pain as Kenzaki struck her hard, fast, and brutally.
Kat was now on the ground with Kenzaki over her, his fist drawn back and animalistic features on his angered face. Kat could feel his Ki and it frightened her, chilling her to the bone. 'Crap, I went too far…' she realized and shut her eyes as his fist came down.
POW!
The crushing blow never came to Kat as the fist was buried next to her head. She blinked and stared up at Kenzaki.
Kat asked, confused. "Why did you stop?" Now was his chance to kill her and take her out of the picture once and for all. He drew back his fist and sighed.
Kenzaki answered, "If you die, Neko would be sad. And as much as your death would make me happy, Neko comes first."
Kat smiled, "Well, then I guess you pass. Go and save your princess."
Kenzaki didn't reply and walked into the cave where he found Neko tied to a wooden pole and unconscious. He untied her and then carried her out of the cave.
#5. TEST OF EMOTION
"OK, now THIS is ridiculous," said Kenzaki as he stood on stage with a microphone stand in front of him. The place was decorated like the stage for 'American Idol'. At the Judges' Table were Kat, Ryuki, Takada, Ichijyo and Emiko.
Emiko stood up with a microphone and said, "This test is the Test of Emotion. Therefore, in order for you to pass, you must convince this panel of judges that you deeply love Neko through song. Choose your song carefully, Tsukuba-san." She then sat down and Kenzaki grimaced.
'Great…I got Kat and her mom judging,' Kenzaki groaned mentally. This was not gonna be easy. "So, any song?"
"A love song is recommended," said Emiko.
"OK, then I choose…" What song could Kenzaki choose? He then recalled the song he sand with Neko on their first date at the Karaoke bar. It was a no-brainer and he sang his heart out. Even Kat was touched by the emotion in his song. Neko shed tears of joy. The stoic Ichijyo even smiled slightly.
The verdict: he passed.
Kenzaki sighed and muttered, "I am never doing THAT again…"
"KEN-KUN!" Neko tackled and glomped him.
It was much later when Kenzaki came to Neko with a drastic decision.
"Neko…let's get married right now!" said Kenzaki. "We'll elope."
Neko was completely speechless. Both were in her room. He'd gone over to speak with her in private. He wanted to elope?
"Kenzaki-sama, what are you saying!?" exclaimed Gekiryuken.
"It's a stupid idea isn't it?" asked Kenzaki. "But I don't know what else to do."
"You…" began Neko. "You can't be serious."
"I am serious Neko. I don't want to lose you and this is the only way I can be sure."
Neko questioned, "But…what about everyone else? They'll wonder where we went."
"You can't just leave like this either," added Gekiryuken.
Kenzaki told her. "We'll return after the ceremony. Once you and I are married, not even your mother will be able to break us apart."
"But, isn't this like running away?" questioned Neko. "I love you, I really do, but I don't think it's a good idea that we elope. It's like…the coward's way out."
"I see..." muttered Kenzaki. "So if your mother severs our bond you'll be fine with it?"
"Of course not!" cried Neko. "I would rather die than let that happen! Just, I really want to do this the right way. Ken-kun, pass the tests…for me?"
"I just don't think that'll be enough…Your mom's smart, I'm afraid she'll find a way even if I past the tests…"
"She won't do anything if you pass. Please, Ken-kun. Do it for us. You've faced Sauron with me, now please do this. Please. I love you…" said Neko as she gave him a really deep kiss.
"I love you too, Neko-chan…that's why I don't want to lose you."
"You won't. If I matter all that much to you, then fight."
"Do I look like the kind of guy to run from a fight?" Kenzaki smirked.
Neko smiled, "That's the spirit!" She hugged him close. Once they shared a moment, he exited her room. It wouldn't take long until he bumped into Kat.
"So, you want my sis to elope with you?" asked Kat with a scowl. Kat had overhead the conversation Kenzaki and Neko had before.
"I'm running out of options. Your mom hates me as much as you do, except she actually HAS the power to break Neko and me up," responded Kenzaki.
"Yes, she does, and this just proves to me how selfish and how cowardly you are," sneered Kat.
"Me wanting to be with the woman I love by any means necessary makes me a coward? Can you honestly say that if your mother or Slade didn't want you and Rose together, you'd be fine with it?"
"No, but I wouldn't choose eloping. You're doing this only because you believe you CAN'T pass the tests," hissed Kat.
"No, I believe that even if I DO pass the tests, your mother will STILL find some kind of loophole and use it to break Neko and me up," retorted Kenzaki.
"So, instead of facing this to the end, you'll run?" questioned Kat.
"If it means being with Neko," answered Kenzaki. "Like I said during the first test, I'll do ANYTHING for Neko. That includes swallowing my pride and taking the coward's way out."
"If you indeed love her, then show everyone that NOTHING will stand in your way. I respect you, Kenzaki, so don't make me change my mind."
"Since when did you respect me?"
"Since I realized how much you love Neko-chan and how much she loves you. I guess I was blinded before but no anymore. Complete the tests and win Mama's acceptance, for Neko-chan, OK, Garoh-chan?"
"You are NOT allowed to call me Garoh-chan," growled Kenzaki. "Neko's the only one who can call me that."
"Sorry, but just do this for her…I guarantee you'll win this," winked Kat.
"A guarantee from you? Great, now I feel confident."
"Relax. Believe it or not I got a friend betting on you." Kat was actually referring to herself. She just wasn't going to say it.
"Thanks, I guess…"
#6. TEST OF STRENGTH
It was NOW time for the nest test and Kenzaki was getting himself ready. The place had been set up for the test and it happened to be the rooftop of Smart Brain Tokyo's building where a wrestling ring was set up. Kenzaki stood at one corner, shirtless and wearing his jeans and boots, doing some stretches. In the centre of the ring was one of Emiko's bodyguards who spoke into a microphone.
"Kenzaki Tsukuba has passed the previous 5 Tests of Worthiness!" said the bodyguard. "Despite all the odds against him he has come out at the top no matter what. However, this test will test him to his limit. This is the TEST OF STRENGTH!"
Emiko, Ryuki, Takada, Neko, Kat and Ichijyo all sat at the spectator seats.
"Wonder who my opponent is?" asked Kenzaki. He got his answer as a lightning bolt struck down from the heavens and the ring exploded. There was a thick smoke cloud and when it dispersed it showed a man, much older than Kenzaki and fitter, with rippling muscles and wearing a tight sleeveless red shirt and baggy black pants. He had green eyes, short and black spiked up hair, and three scars running over his right eye. His black hair had red tints he looked vaguely familiar.
"ANATA!" cheered Emiko. "Gambatte!"
Kenzaki blinked and then gawked at his opponent.
"MAMA!" exclaimed Neko in shock. "You want Ken-kun to fight…PAPA!?"
'Papa!?' Kenzaki thought and then he realized who his opponent was. 'LIBRA!?'
"And just arriving is Kyousuke Hasuma, the TRUE Head of the Hasuma Clan!" announced the bodyguard.
Kyousuke Hasuma, also known as Libra of the Zodiac Knights. A Celestial…A god…an immortal.
"But, Okaasan," protested Ryuki. "Otousan could kill him."
"Maybe," nodded Emiko. "But the rules did state that the challenger must face the STRONGEST member of the clan in the Test of Courage."
"That's right," said Kat in agreement. "And who's stronger than our dear old dad?"
Ryuki and Neko NOW looked incredibly worried.
"So, it's been a long time, hasn't it, Kenzaki?" asked Kyousuke.
"I guess, sir," replied Kenzaki. "So, I have to fight you."
"Yes," answered Kyousuke. "I'm sorry it had to come to this."
"Don't be," smiled Kenzaki. "It's an honor."
"Personally, I think you're the right man for my daughter," said Kyousuke.
"Thanks."
"And now…BEGIN!" the bodyguard announced. A gong was banged.
Kenzaki was the first to attack and struck fast and ferocious like a wolf, only for Kyousuke to block with ease. All of Kenzaki's hits didn't hurt all that much but they did put some pressure on Kyousuke. Kenzaki then kicked out but Kyousuke jumped over the leg and swung his leg in a tornado kick.
WHAM!
Kenzaki was sent flying across the ring and into the ropes before bouncing back. Kyousuke looked at the young man who loved his daughter with a look of regret but his wife wanted him to help see if Kenzaki was worthy and even he was powerless to stop the tests when it got to this point.
Kyousuke rushed forward and started to pummel Kenzaki with punches and the Wolf Rider did his best to block. Despite not being able to feel pain, he could feel the impacts against his body, breaking his bones. One uppercut sent him skyward and then Kyousuke leapt up to slam Kenzaki to the ring's floor with an axe kick.
"KEN-KUN!" Neko shouted in horror.
"I'm…fine…" coughed Kenzaki. He definitely felt that. He heard Kyousuke land and picked himself back up, getting shakily onto his feet.
"I'm surprised that you survived," said Kyousuke.
"That's probably because you haven't used all your power," remarked Kenzaki. "Come on, aren't you supposed to be the strongest?"
Kyousuke shook his head. "I am not allowed to go all out on a mortal," said Kyousuke. "So, I am only using 10 percent of my true strength."
"I can take it," said Kenzaki.
"If you wish," said Kyousuke before he blurred and then…
POW!
WHAM!
THUD!
A punch and kick combo sent Kenzaki flying into the ropes which bounced him back to Kyousuke who swung a bloody haymaker into the bounty hunter's face.
CRACK!
That definitely was the sound of bones breaking.
Kyousuke flicked his wrist as he saw Kenzaki's prone body. He sighed. "It's over…" He turned but then heard shuffling behind him and some gasps from the audience. He turned around to see Kenzaki, getting up to his feet and using the rope around the ring to support himself. He reached up to his nose and set it back into place with a crack.
"You're defiant," said Kyousuke. "Never know when to quit."
"That's why I always get my man," said Kenzaki. "So, are we gonna finish this, or not?"
"Are you so eager to die?" questioned Kyousuke.
"I'm eager to prove my worth to your daughter, even if I gotta die trying!" shouted Kenzaki.
"Ken-kun…" Neko let out.
"Very well, then," said Kyousuke. "Since you wish to see this to the end, then I shall oblige…"
"Bring it on, old man!" challenged Kenzaki.
Kyousuke dashed forward and then threw his fist at Kenzaki who howled and then threw his own Violet Fierce Ki covered fist. Both fists met on impact and caused an explosion of light.
The light was so bright that it temporarily blinded the audience and once it died down they could all see Kenzaki standing against Kyousuke.
"Ken-kun!" shouted Neko as she ran to the ring and climbed up the side so she could get to him. She ran over. "Ken-kun!"
"He's got internal injuries, before coming here," said Kyousuke.
"Yes," answered Neko.
"And yet he managed to survive until now," added Kyousuke. "Anyone else would've died."
"True…"
Kyousuke looked towards Emiko who nodded and Kyousuke announced, "KENZAKI TSUKUBA PASSES!!!"
Kenzaki was immediately taken to the infirmary to have his wounds treated and healed. Ichijyo was there to do the healing. Neko was present too. Outside, Emiko was leaning against the wall. She was wondering if it was a good idea for her to challenge Kenzaki. Look what was happening. She was breaking her daughter's heart, but she was only doing what she thought was best for her daughter like any mother in these sorts of situations.
Emiko heard the tapping of footsteps and looked to see Koneko. "Koneko-chan?" She had accepted the small Imagin as part of her family but the look the Kitten Imagin was giving her chilled her to the bone. Is was cold and filled with rage, and also tears. "Koneko…"
"Mama is trying to break up Onee-chan and Onii-chan. Mama is bad…" sniffled Koneko. She clenched her tiny fists.
"Koneko…" began Emiko.
"I HATE YOU!" cried Koneko. She then stormed off in anger.
Emiko watched her run away, crying. "Wait!!!" called Emiko. "Oh, what have I done?" Still, even she was powerless to stop the tests at this point. Maybe she needed to speak with someone.
"Okaasan, are you alright?" asked Ryuki as he saw his mother. He'd gone to get some bandages from the supply room.
"I don't know anymore," answered Emiko. "Ryuki-kun, am I doing the right thing here?"
"I believe you are doing what you think is best for Neko-chan," answered Ryuki. "But, maybe you need to speak with someone else about this."
"Who?"
"A very dear friend of mine," said Ryuki.
"My son, Ryuki, speaks highly of you, Warren-dono," said Emiko as she took a sip of her tea. Both were seated across from each other. Ryuki had Emiko taken over to Warren's apartment via the ChronoLiner. Warren, having a degree in psychology, would be a definite help in this situation.
"Thank you, Emiko. Ryuki's a good kid. A little sensitive, but a good kid," replied Warren.
"Yes, but I do blame myself for turning him into a hero," sighed Emiko. "I told him all those tales in his youth and set him on that path. He was so young and didn't understand the trials and tribulations."
"I went through the same thing. I grew up on the tales of heroes like Captain America and the Justice Society of America. Even after everything I've been through in life, the stories I heard about those great men is what made me the man I am now," said Warren.
"Yes, so I've heard. Great men they were. Back in my youth I was in the hero business with my husband. I, however, retired, while he ascended to godhood. I do miss him greatly but he does visit. Still, the way Ryuki speaks of you, it's like he speaks of a father figure."
"Really?" asked a shocked Warren. "I knew he looked up to me like an older brother, but a father figure?"
"That's the impression I got. He respects your wisdom and appreciates your guidance. But, now, let us talk of my other son, Ryuji."
"Well, he's a little rough around the edges, but he's a great kid. He reminds me a lot of myself actually."
"Yes, but he hasn't visited much. Can you tell me what has been happening with him and Kotonoha-chan?" asked Emiko.
"Kotonoha is the best thing that could have ever happened to Ryuji. They complete each other. But, things have been both good and bad for them."
"Could you please tell me more of what has happened?"
"Well, a while back Ryuji proposed to her, and she accepted happily."
"Really?" questioned Emiko. She then went starry eyed. "Oh…another daughter-in-law...but…what of the bad?"
Warren's face became sad, "Well, they found out that Kotonoha was pregnant…and there was an attack."
"Attack?" gasped Emiko. "Is she alright?"
"She's fine, Ryuji helped her…but they lost the baby."
"My god…What happened to the one who caused it?" asked Emiko, an edge to her voice.
"A slow painful death…much more than it deserved."
"Good, it suffered for its transgression. Nobody should lose a child like that. They were looking forward to having it, I assume?"
"They were. They were even picking out names and coming to Rae and me for parenting advice."
"So, the recovery process went smoothly for them?" asked Emiko.
Warren nodded, "Yes, it did. Like I said, Ryuji helped her through it. But…" He rubbed his left shoulder, the one with the bullet lodged in it. "The pain will stay with them, forever."
"Hm…and what of my daughters?" questioned Emiko.
"Well, Kat's been causing trouble for everyone," sighed Warren.
"I presume as much. As a child she did all she could for attention. I hope it wasn't serious."
"She turned all the female students at the school into catgirls. And then there was that fiasco with the Loathe Arrow."
"Catgirls? I recall a similar incident in Jump City. And what is a Loathe Arrow?"
"Well, she hypothesized that it would cause anyone who was shot with it to hate the person they loved. In truth, it only amplified the hatred that was already there," explained Warren.
"I guess nothing good came out of that?"
Warren answered bluntly, "Kenzaki bit her."
"Bit her!?" shouted Emiko.
"The Loathe Arrow forced Kenzaki into a beast-like state. His hatred of Kat was amplified…greatly," explained Warren.
"Hm…it seems Kenzaki hates Kat-chan a lot. Why is that?" asked Emiko.
Warren answered, "Kat reminds Kenzaki of the Living Gate, who killed his family. That and Kat tends to antagonize him…a lot."
"So…that's why he hates Kat-chan. The Living Gate again," sighed Emiko. "And yet he loves Neko despite the similarities?"
"The major difference is that Neko shows regret for their actions during that time, while Kat seems to want to stay that way. Most her plans also focused on trying to break up Kenzaki and Neko."
"Hm…so she does have her reasons for not wanting them to be together. I doubted this relationship when Kenzaki nearly murdered Neko, but I can't blame him for it, it seems.
"Kenzaki's a good man, who loves Neko more than anything else. I've seen what a love like theirs is capable of. To take Neko away from him would just be cruel."
"I misjudged him then. Thank you, Warren-dono, but Kenzaki must still complete the last test, the Test of Pride."
"What will he have to do?" asked Warren.
"It will test his forgiveness," explained Emiko.
"Hm, it should be interesting to see how this all plays out."
"Yes, because he will need to swallow every ounce of his pride for this one. Please, continue to watch over my children, Warren-dono."
"They are like family to me. My kids love them. I'll do anything and everything for them."
"Yes, because I sense that they will need your support for further challenges ahead of them."
"Just as I think I'll need theirs."
#7. TEST OF PRIDE
It was time for the final test. This time it was going to be a huge challenge for Kenzaki. It all depended on his actions.
Kat and Kenzaki were standing in a dark and empty room. "Alright, Kenny, this is your final test," informed Kat.
Kenzaki asked, "OK, so, what exactly do I have to do?"
Kat swallowed her own pride. This was a test for her too. She slowly got down on her knees and bowed down to Kenzaki with her hands on the ground. He just stared at her oddly but then was surprised by her words.
Kat was asking for forgiveness. "I...apologize for all the things I've done to you. I'm sorry for trying to break you and Neko up. Please, forgive me for all the horrible things I've done."
He was having an inner struggle of his own. Could he, really, forgive this girl who enjoyed tormenting others for fun, as well as being partly responsible for him and Neko nearly breaking up? He closed his eyes and looked through his memories. Despite all the bad things she'd done, she had done some good. Even if her reasons were in her own interest, she still pulled through. She was swallowing her pride by asking for his forgiveness, so he might as well do the same for her. It was what Neko would've wanted.
Kenzaki was silent before answering, "Do you swear on your honor that you'll never do anything to try and harm mine and Neko's relationship ever again?"
Kat swore, "I do, on my honor. My word is my bond."
Kenzaki snorted. "Stand up, kneeling doesn't suit you."
Kat did as told, gratefully. "Yea, it hurts my knees. My legs were about to fall asleep."
Kenzaki continued, "Kat...I thought I could never forgive you. However, I will...thank you." Kat was surprised by his answer and even more surprised when he got down on his kness in front of her.
"H-h-hey!" she stammered. "W-what are you doing!?"
Kenzaki continued, "Despite how rare they are and the fact that you do them for selfish reasons, thank you for all the good you've done. I no longer see you as being just as bad as Sauron, though you still piss me off just as much as she does. And...you're not the only one that has stuff to apologize for. Because of my blind hatred for you, I hurt the girl I love. I just blamed you while it was really all my fault. I...I just thought it'd be easier to just blame you so I didn't have to take the blame." He was inwardly struggling with his next set of words. He rose up and finished, "So...as you have apologized, I too ask for forgiveness as I forgive you." He then stood up to face her.
"You're asking for my forgiveness?" Kat blinked in confusion.
"Pretty much," nodded Kenzaki. "And I've already forgiven you too," he reminded.
She hadn't expected him to just forgive her, or even apologize for his own actions, even with the apology which she had planned out. This was actually as much as her Test of Pride as it was Kenzaki's. Her mom had a long talk with her regarding her behaviour and after Kat explained herself and apologized, Emiko ordered her to apologize to Kenzaki and ask for his forgiveness. She didn't expect to be forgiven, much less for him to apologize either.
"So, are we even?" Kat asked.
"Yes," said Kenzaki. "But, if you ever do anything to mess with Neko and I…" He let the threat hang. She understood perfectly.
"So, as I've apologized and forgived, so do you?" questioned Kat.
"I can't believe it myself either," admitted Kenzaki. "But that's what happened."
"Well...it looks like you pass," said Kat. "Now it's up to Mama to see if you're worthy or not."
"Joy…" mumbled Kenzaki sarcastically.
In the GaroLiner's dining car, Emiko came to announce her decision. After all she'd witnessed, she could only draw ONE conclusion.
"After much thought…" began Emiko, "I guess I can allow you to be with my daughter."
Kenzaki frowned. "So, after all I went through, the best I get is an 'I guess'?" questioned Kenzaki.
"Ken-kun…" warned Neko. He should really hold his tongue.
"Figures, I knew I could never be completely accepted," growled Kenzaki. He then turned around and left. "I'll be back later," he said as he exited the dining car and the door slid close as soon as he left.
"There he goes again," sighed Okami.
"Ken-kun…" said Neko sadly. She felt a hand on her shoulder and turned to see Okami.
"Don't worry about it, Shoujo," said Okami.
"What was that about?" asked Emiko.
"Shonen-kun is pretty simplistic, you gotta spell stuff out to him or he misunderstands," explained Okami. "He's taken so many blows to the head over the years sometimes he forgets to read between the lines. He ends up taking things in the literal sense. By you saying that you guess he can be part of the family, he heard it as, 'You can marry my daughter, but you still won't be part of our family'. The same thing happened when Shoujo here said 'no' to his first proposal."
"Emiko-sama, you should've worded your answer carefully," said Gekiryuken.
Emiko frowned grimly. 'Looks like I need to clean up this mess now.'
"Tsukuba-san, matte!"
Kenzaki looked over his shoulder to see Emiko approaching him. "Hasuma-san? Why are you here?" asked Kenzaki.
"I came to clear up a misunderstanding," said Emiko.
"What misunderstanding? I passed the tests. So what if I won't be part of your family? It's not like you exactly liked me to begin with," said Kenzaki.
"I have been told more sides of the story from my other children, not only Kat-chan. She had a biased view of you and I do apologize on her behalf."
"She already apologized. She hates me, she'll always hate me. I accept that. But thank you," nodded Kenzaki.
"And, I also apologize for the way I was wording my sentence before. I already gave you my blessing, Tsukuba-san. After all, you did risk your own life for Neko-chan."
"I'd do anything for her. Nothing would ever stop me from helping her. And it wasn't the blessing I was upset about. It was the fact that Neko's family will always be first in her heart. And if I'm not considered a part of your family, I can never be first in her heart."
"Then how would you like to be officially adopted into the Hasuma Clan?" offered Emiko.
"Really?" asked the shocked Kenzaki.
"Yes, as long as you promise to always love and cherish my daughter. You are part of this family as far as I can see. Only family goes so far for one another."
"Thank you, Hasuma-san," nodded Kenzaki. "You have no idea how much this means to me."
"Well, you passed all the tests even in your condition. Still, I will have a long talk with Kat about what she's done."
"Don't be too hard on her. She was just looking out for Neko. Even if she was being overly possessive about it. So, I take it Neko told you about the first time I proposed?" questioned Kenzaki.
"And how you reacted," added Emiko, referring to the two weeks that Kenzaki had spent drunk. "You took her by surprise and she's still young."
"Well, given how everything was going smoothly until then, I was hoping she'd say yes…but well, things only got worse after that point."
"She and Kat were burdened with a curse when they once shared a body and I had only one daughter. The Living Gate. One of my relatives was with the Makai Council in Kansai and voted to have her executed. However, he was outvoted thus she was put under protection and heavy observation. However, she also felt isolated and overshadowed by Ryuki-kun. She could sense all the stares and I feared the darkness grew within her and I was powerless to stop it. Thankfully, they are free now."
"Yes, she is. And I'm glad. I sort of know what that's like, to be overshadowed and pushed into the background."
"Well, you make her feel like the centre of the universe. I never saw her so happy before. I was happy too when Kat found Rose. Love is the only thing that can keep the Living Gate at bay while hatred feeds it."
"In that case, Sauron better not mess with Neko and me," said Kenzaki proudly.
"See that she doesn't, Kenzaki-kun."
"I will, Emiko-okaasan."
ZK Chromedragozoid: Looks like Kenzaki has OFFICIALLY been welcomed to the Hasuma Clan. BTW, wonder where Ryuji and Kotonoha were during the tests? Well, take a looksie at this!
RYUJI DAYS
Ryuji purred contently as he lay on the floor with his head in Kotonoha's lap. She stroked his hair gently as she cleaned his ear. He shivered pleasantly as she touched a sensitive part as she continued with the cleaning.
Kotonoha loved to hear him purr and had learnt by touching which spots would get him to make the sound. She giggled as she listened to his purring. This was the side of him he would never let anyone see. She now understood why he was like this due to her travelling into his mind many months ago. He had some feline traits and tendencies. He loved to drink milk, eat seafood, and possessed the cat-like agility, reflexes and senses of a cat.
"Koto-chan…" he let out with a purr. "Please, don't stop. Feels good…"
"I know, but I'm done with this ear. Turn over." He did as told and she started cleaning his other ear while still stroking his hair. As messy as wild as it was, it was surprisingly soft. Sometimes she would braid it and one time she even cut off a lock of hair as a keepsake. Actually, it was when she'd trimmed his hair. It was really long as it reached down to his waist.
"Daisuki…" Ryuji uttered, eyes closed as he purred. Kotonoha smiled. In public Ryuji had trouble expressing how much he loved her with words. He would flirt with her, but actually saying it was another issue entirely. Still, in private moments like this, the words felt special. "Aishiteru…"
The Imagin attacks were becoming less and less frequent and since summer vacation was just around the corner, Kotonoha wanted to spend each day with him. She just loved him so much with all her heart. Her hand went from his hair to the pendant which dangled from her neck. The ice crystal shaped like a heart represented how he'd willingly given her his heart. It was such a romantic gesture.
Kotonoha purred slightly with her eyes closed as she snuggled against Ryuji's back. She was riding behind him on his bike while he sat in front with his hands gripping the handlebars tightly. His bike, the Machine Dyno-Breaker, was in disguise and without the tusks looked like any other bike and wouldn't draw any attention. They were on their way to school, to be exact, and it was Kotonoha herself who'd suggested they take a ride on the bike. Ryuji had a spare white helmet for her to use.
Kotonoha loved the feeling of riding with Ryuji. Though a motorbike was a dangerous vehicle, she felt safe with him at the controls. As he was a Kamen Rider, it was only natural for him to ride a bike and be good at it. She wrapped her arms around his waist tightly, pressing her front against his back. He smirked behind his helmets visor.
As they approached the gate, the KLLA was waiting for them and looked ready to fight. Kotonoha heard three distinct words, "Hold on tight." She didn't need any other warning and tighten her hold on him.
"RYUJI HASUMA, TODAY WE…HEY, STOP!!!" Ryuji, however, wasn't going to stop and continued to accelerate as he got closer. Though they were willing to be beaten up for the sake of Kotonoha, none of them were brave enough or stupid enough to risk a head on collision with a speeding motorcycle. As Ryuji got close, the KLLA all scrambled to safety. Ryuji put on the brakes and his bike skidded against the ground, coming to a halt sideways. Kotonoha screamed excitedly as the rush and adrenaline finally came to her. Finally, the vehicle stopped.
Dust had been kicked up, creating a cloud. Ryuji kicked down the stand and helped Kotonoha off the bike as he did the same. Reaching up, he undid his chin strap and pulled off his helmet, allowing his long hair to fall down like a curtain. It was as messy as ever and on impulse Kotonoha ran her hand through it. He shuddered and purred from the contact.
The KLLA looked ready to fight again but this time Ryuji had an idea. "Stand back," he told Kotonoha and he quickly replaced and strapped on the helmet onto his head. He mounted his bike again and started the engine. The Dyno-Breaker growled as he revved up the engine before he kicked up the stand and sped straight towards the groupies, screaming, "BANZAI!"
Kotonoha watched as her fiancé defended her honor by sending the KLLA members all scrambling for their lives upon his bike. He even performed a wheelie to frighten them. One of the things she learnt about Kamen Rider was that the bike itself could be used as a weapon.
"ARGH!!! WE SURRENDER!!! MERCY!!!" the KLLA all ran for their lives from the charging beast named Ryuji Hasuma. It was easy dealing with a mob mentality. Scare one and you scare them all.
"COME BACK HERE!" Ryuji howled as he continued to chase them around on the Dyno-Breaker.
Warren looked out the window of the staff room and sighed. "I guess I should stop this…" He watched as some stragglers ended up getting clothes-lined by Ryuji, "But…it is self defense." He witnessed as Ryuji removed his helmet and used it as a club on the KLLA while still riding on his bike. "Of course, I can't let this go on any longer, no matter how fun it looks."
"FACE ME, YOU COWARDS!!!" Ryuji laughed as he continued to go on a rampage.
At the Radish's locker room, Ryuji was changing into his work clothes. Since there was only one room for him to change in, he had to wait until it wasn't being used. While it was nice and private, what he didn't seem to realize was the peephole the girls had drilled into the wall just days after he started working. While the waitresses themselves were eye candy for the male customers, Ryuji was eye candy for the waitresses.
One waitress muttered, "Woah, look at that chest."
"Forget that, check out those biceps."
"His abs look so yummy. Ooh, check out his butt!"
Ryuji's ears twitched. Though they tried to whisper, he could still hear them with his superior hearing. Once he finished changing, he exited the locker room to join up with rest of the staff out in the dining area. As he passed by the flushed waitresses, he said to them, "Enjoy the show?" They all blushed when they discovered they'd been caught.
Kotonoha skipped over and flashed him a brilliant smile which he returned before going over to a table where a group of girls, Otome and her friends, had sat down. They were surprised to see Ryuji actually working in the Radish.
"So, what will it be?" Ryuji asked politely, shocking them.
"Woah, Ryuji," Otome whistled. "You clean up nicely."
"Thanks, Otome," Ryuji nodded. She and Ryuji were on friendly terms now since she was sincere in her apology to Kotonoha. Her three friends (Kumi, Narsumi and Minami), whom he did not care to even learn their names, were still fearful of him. "So, what will it be?" Suddenly, his ears picked up the sound of his girlfriend's discomfort. With a curt, "Excuse me," he quickly went over to see some boys messing with her and trying to flip her short skirt.
Everyone watched as he made short work of them and tossed them out. "AND STAY OUT!" Ryuji roared before slamming the door shut.
Youko smiled as she watched her male employee do what he did best. Her girls always complained about customers who were a little 'too friendly' for their taste. At least with Ryuji around they could be kept in line, lest get beaten up and kicked out. Ryuji was the bouncer and waiter of the Radish and the waitresses' knight in shining armor. A true asset to their workplace.
"Guess Mom made the right choice of hiring him," noted Sekai from the counter. Setsuna was sitting there, enjoying a parfait.
"Yes," Setsuna acknowledged.
"Wow," said Rina and Siera in amazement as they both entered the King's Terminal. Ryuji just thought it was a good idea to bring them here. With him and the princesses was Kotonoha and although she wasn't too pleased with Ryuji's decision, she smiled at the princesses' reaction. This was their first time visiting the Time Train Station after all.
"That was my initial reaction too," said Kotonoha.
"What is this place?" asked Siera.
"The King's Terminal," answered Ryuji. "Also known as the Time Train Station. There are others like it." He explained, "Basically, this is a place where time trains like my DynoLiner can get repaired, maintained, cleaned up, refueled and restocked with supplies."
"That's it?" questioned Rina with an arched eyebrow. She was expecting more.
"Well, not exactly," said Ryuji. "While the staff here is working on the trains, travelers and time train owners can walk around."
"So that people don't get bored while they visit, this place has an amusement park," said Kotonoha.
"Really?" Siera sounded interested.
"And several different types stores and restaurants," added Ryuji.
"Stores?" Rina was interested. "You mean shops and the like?"
"Naturally," nodded Ryuji, having taken Kotonoha shopping here.
"Well, what are we waiting for?" Rina grabbed Ryuji's left arm. Kotonoha glared and instantly grabbed Ryuji's right arm. "Let's shop till we drop!"
Siera giggled. "Rina, no matter where we go, you love to shop."
"But of course, Cousin Siera," said Rina with a wink. "What else can a girl like me do?"
"By the way, where did you send the kings?" asked Kotonoha.
"They're with Warren," said Ryuji.
Warren was at a bar in the King's Terminal with the two kings. It was hard to believe that they were loyalty since they didn't act as such, especially now.
King Eustace down an entire glass of beer and smiled. "Now THAT hits the spot!"
"Thank you for bringing us here, Warren," said King Frederick who was drinking small shots. At least he was showing some restraint.
"Yeah, you're welcome," said Warren. At least he could keep these two under control. If King Eustace got too drunk and loud then Warren could just knock him out.
"It's great, just us guys, while our daughters are on a date with their fiancé!" said King Eustace happily.
"My daughter's only 4," corrected Warren. "But your daughters would have fun with Ryuji." Ryuji was capable of being nice…sometimes.
"He is a little temperamental, however," said King Frederick with some concern. "It took him a long time to just accept our daughters as friends."
"Ryuji's got trust issues, so he doesn't let people in that easily," said Warren. "Oh, and by the way, you've both met his mom, right?"
"Yes, a charming woman," spoke King Frederick. "And also a powerful one at that since she owns and runs her own company."
"Not to mention being her Clan's Head," added Eustace.
"Well, with his father being elsewhere (the Celestial Realm), his mother had to take over for the sake of the Hasuma Clan," said Warren, having met with Emiko several times before. "So, what did you talk with her about?"
"Oh, it was about the engagements," said King Frederick. "She was happy to see our daughters showing interest in Ryuji, but…"
"Let me guess," spoke Warren. "She told you about the 'imprint', right?"
King Eustace became depressed and downed his beer once more after it got filled up by the bartender. "Yup," he said. "She told us, because of it, Ryuji will only be with Kotonoha."
"Rina wouldn't be pleased if she found out," said Frederick, frowning.
"True," agreed Warren as he swirled his drink around his glass. "But I guess your daughters have to learn for themselves what it means to love and lose."
"To our daughters!" announced King Eustace as he raised his glass.
"To love!" added King Frederick.
"And to loss," said Warren. "May those girls become stronger because of it all."
"Here, here!"
Clink!
"What do you think?" said Rina as she posed in a little black dress that went down to mid thigh. It was sleeveless and backless.
"It looks great on you," admitted Ryuji. Kotonoha, not wanting to be upstaged, came out of the changing room with a red Chinese cheongsam, trimmed in gold with a dragon on it, and a slit on the side that exposed her leg.
"What about me, Ryuji-kun?" said Kotonoha flirtatiously. Ryuji blushed.
"Uh…" he was at a loss for words.
Siera too came out in a lovely evening gown. "What about me? How do I look?"
"Well…" Ryuji rubbed the back of his head uncertainly. He then noticed a few young men in the stores staring at the girls and a few looked jealous.
"Good, so can we get these?" said Rina hopefully.
"Rina!" scolded Siera.
"Oh, come on, Siera!" retorted Rina. "It IS the gentleman's job to pay for his ladies' purchases. He has to foot the bill."
Ryuji sighed. At lease he had enough credits saved up from his previous Imagin kills.
"I am NOT going in there," said Ryuji firmly as they all stood in front of a certain store. He could see what was being sold and wasn't about to set foot inside. It was a lingerie store.
"Oh, come on…" Rina pouted. "You're no fun."
"Don't force him," said Kotonoha, angered by Rina's flirting. "If he doesn't want to come inside, then he shouldn't have to."
Rina gave Kotonoha a challenging smirk. "Oh, so you DON'T wanna show your body off wearing sexy lingerie." Kotonoha blushed.
"Well…"
"Look, you girls can all look around and try out bras, panties or whatever," said Ryuji. "I'll just wait out here."
"Suit yourself," shrugged Rina. "But you'll be missing quite the show."
"I'll live," said Ryuji flatly.
"See you later, Sir Ryuji," said Siera as she went inside with Kotonoha and Rina.
"That was close," said Ryuji as he sighed in relief. "Don't know how much I can take." They'd taken him to a store selling bathing suits. Since they were all going to the beach for summer break, it seemed like a good idea. He looked up at the ceiling. "Kami, what did I do to deserve this?" If he ever got the chance to speak to his future self, he was going to let him have it. Ryuji pocketed his hands and looked over to see an arcade just across from him. "Well, knowing girls, they'll take hours. Might as well go kill some time."
In the Station Master's office, Ant was having lunch with an elderly gentleman who wore a white captain's uniform. Both were eating fried rice and chatting.
"So, how is your team?" asked the Station Master. He and Ant were old friends.
"Well, they can be a handful," admitted Ant. "But they're good kids."
"I suppose," agreed the Station Master somewhat. "So, is Ryuji Hasuma still part of your group?"
"Yeah, but he doesn't listen to me all that much. He only listens to Warren, but only barely. Why?"
"Keep an eye on the boy," said the Station Master. "He has something very powerful in him."
Ant couldn't agree more. Suddenly, the large monitor in the room came to life to show something big was happening. The Station Master now looked panicked as he stood up. He picked up his microphone and spoke, "Sound the alarm."
The alarms in the King's Terminal suddenly blared and this caused the people to panic. "What the hell!?" shouted Ryuji as he was carrying the girls' shopping bags. His phone rang and he put the bags down to take out his phone. "What?" he spoke into the phone.
"Ryuji," said Ant from the other line. "Look up at the JumboTron."
The creature that appeared on the JumboTron had to be the ugliest thing ever seen. It stood on two legs with a blocky torso and no arms. The feet were clawed. Swinging wildly around were mechanical necks that were tipped with wicked looking drills. It was starting to make its way towards the King's Terminal, ready to tear the train station apart with its drills and sheer power.
Ryuji looked grim as he saw the Gigandeath emerge. "Damn, that has got to be the ugliest Gigandeath I've ever seen."
"That's right," agreed Warren as he arrived.
"Warren," said Ryuji.
"Ryuji," spoke Warren who gave his kohai a look that spoke volume. "Let's go."
"Right behind you," said Ryuji as he followed his senior. They were running to the platforms where the DynoLiner and ChronoLiner were docked. The girls watched them leave.
"Be careful!" the three girls called out.
"Henshin!" Ryuji called out as he swiped his pass over the buckle.
"MAMMOTH FORM!"
"Shatter!" called out Warren, activating his Skull Rider Wraith suit.
Once at the platforms, the two Riders entered their trains. Ifrit took hold of the DynoLiner's controls as Wraith did the same inside the ChronoLiner. As soon as he activated the ChronoLiner, it transformed into Wraith Mode.
"Ikuze!" shouted Ifrit as he dashed forward on his train. The ChronoLiner sped out as well into the Sands of Time.
Once there, they could see the mechanical Gigandeath. It was bigger than expected, towering over the two trains and big enough to crush the King's Terminal. Ifrit suspected someone had sent it, someone with the name Nanimo. "Kuso…" Ifrit swore under his breath. He entered the attack commands and his train sped forward.
"Ryuji, wait!" called out Wraith but if Ifrit had heard him, he didn't show it. "Damn it."
The DynoLiner started to fire with its weapons. Ice cannon blasts, energy bolts, lasers and flames all struck the tri-drilled Gigandeath but the attacks didn't even seem to affect it. However, the attacks did get it to notice the DynoLiner and it struck with its drills.
Bombs and missile exploded upon the Gigandeath and it scrambled backwards. Wraith called, "Ryuji, don't get too hotheaded. We're a team, let's do it as a team!"
Ifrit was about to snap that he didn't need help but quieted down. Wraith was right. "OK, together."
"On my signal…" began Warren as the creature started to come forward. "NOW!"
The two trains fired their entire salvo of weapons, hoping to destroy the massive mechanical monstrosity. Unfortunately, nothing seemed to penetrate its tough metal hide.
"Damn it!" cursed Ifrit. "What now?"
"Ryuji! MOVE OUT OF THE WAY!" Wraith warned but he was too late as the drills struck the DynoLiner in the side and sent it skidding across the sand. "KOHAI!"
"I'm fine!" Ifrit relayed, weakly.
"Damn, this thing's tough," muttered Wraith.
"But we can't let it get to the station," said Ifrit. There had to be a way to stop that thing and that was when Ifrit got the idea. "Warren, remember that other combination we tried out?"
"Yes," nodded Wraith, remembering what Ifrit meant. "I do. If separate we can't beat it, then maybe together we can."
"Then let's do it!" commanded Ifrit, accepting Wraith's statement as an affirmative.
"OK, kiddo," replied Wraith. "Let's go with your plan."
"Ikuze!" shouted Ifrit. Ifrit entered the command sequence before shouting out, "DynoLiner and ChronoLiner, CHO GATTAI!"
"CHO GATTAI!" repeated Wraith as he too entered the command sequence.
The DynoLiner and ChronoLiner sped along each other before breaking apart into their separate train cars. With the Mammoth in the lead, the Bomber-3 and Missile-2 linked up to Cannon's sides. The front of the Cannon-1 and the back of the Mammoth connected via clamps. The laser turrets of the ChronoLiner Cannon-1 revealed themselves. The Tyrano roared at the Mammoth's left before connecting itself to the side of the steam engine while the Tricera bellowed and connected itself to the right side. The Jet-4, while not part of the combination, released the jet inside it which connected to the top of the Mammoth.
The four Rescue Cars came out of their individual portals and combined with the Liners. The Fire-5 jumped up and set itself upon Bomber-3 as the Submarine-8 joined atop the Missile-2. The Digger-7 and Gyro-6 also combined, with the drill tank coming up in front of the Mammoth and joined together by clamps. The helicopter-like car hovered down and then attached itself upon the top of the Cannon-1.
"Dyno-Chrono Formation!" called out Ifrit. Mammoth trumpeted, Tyrano roared and Tricera bellowed.
"GOD-STRIKELINER!" the two Kamen Riders called out, "COMBINATION COMPLETE!"
"Sugoi," said Kotonoha in amazement as she watched the JumboTron with Siera and Rina. Everyone in the station was watching.
"Wow, they combined," said Rina.
"Ryuji! Sensei! Gambatte!" Siera cheered.
Now united and powers combined, the DynoLiner and ChronoLiner – NOW the God-StrikeLiner – renewed their attack, blasting the Gigandeath with whatever weapons they got. The ice cannon managed to freeze the feet of the monster to the ground as lasers, flames, energy bolts, missiles, and cannon fire struck it mercilessly.
The Gigandeath Tri-Drill tried to launch a counterattack and struck with its three drills, but with two pilots instead of one maneuvering the combined vehicle, the God-StrikeLiner was able to avoid the drills that struck the ground.
"OK, time to finish it!" said Ifrit. "TYRANO! TRICERA!" roared Ifrit as he sent his two saurian trains at the mechanical monstrosity. "TAKE A BITE!" The two trains roared and bellowed as they jumped up and snapped their jaws down on two of the neck. The Mecha Gigandeath thrashed around, but it was futile as both trains held on firmly.
"Launch Fire-5 and Submarine-8!" shouted Wraith as he released the combination too, sending both Rescue Cars flying like missiles with their own artillery firing upon the giant Mecha Gigandeath. The two train cars exploded impressively on impact, causing heavy damage upon the mechanical monstrosity. Two of the drills were destroyed as a result and yet the Tricera and Tyrano still held on firmly to the damaged limbs.
Once the two Rescue Cars were launched, the ChronoLiner Cannon-1, Missile-2 and Bomber-3 cars released their own ammunition, pelting the robo-monster with laser fire, missiles and bombs as the God-StrikeLiner raced around it. The thing tried to strike back with its lone undamaged drill but then the Gyro-6 was launched and the rotor blades cut through the segment which held the drill-bit in place. The limb, however, swung down and crushed the Gyro-6 beneath it, destroying the helicopter completely.
"Ryuji! Finish it!" called Wraith.
"OK!" Ifrit spoke to Ant through the com-link, "Ant, requesting permission to use the kamikaze attack!"
Ant received the request and sighed. The Station Master spoke, "It looks like he's waiting for you to make the call."
"At least he's asking for permission now," replied Ant. He said to Ifrit through the communicator, "Approved! Finish it now!"
"Roger! LET'S END IT!!! TIME TO GO EXTINCT!!!" roared Ifrit as he sent the combined trains flying with the Digger-6's drill spinning rapidly. "COMPLETE EXTINCTION! KAMIKAZE ATTACK!!!"
"ATTACK!!!" yelled out Wraith.
The God-StrikeLiner smashed right through, the drill burrowing deeply into the bi-pedaled mechanical beast's torso.
Back at the King's Terminal, all eyes were on the JumboTron. Things were very tense as Kotonoha, Siera and Rina were all praying hard for Ifrit.
The entire robo-beast exploded into nothing but scrap metal as it sent the trains flying away. The DynoLiner Mammoth, Tyrano and Tricera all skidded along the desert ground on their sides. Though heavily damaged, they seemed fine for the most part. The ChronoLiner Cannon-1 was, however, the only other train car that survived.
The JumboTron at the King's Terminal showed static for a few seconds. The girls were praying to whatever deities they knew, hoping for the best. When the JumboTron came back on to show the damaged trains, they feared the worst, but then when Ifrit and Wraith's faces were displayed. Ryuji could only grin as he removed his helmet and gave a thumbs up. Even Warren was grinning from ear to ear in his damaged cockpit as he did a V sign.
Announcing simultaneously, both pilots shouted, "MISSION ACCOMPLISHED!!!"
"YATTA!!!" Kotonoha, Siera and Rina cheered. The other people also cheered. "THEY DID IT!" The girls went into a group hug and hopped around happily.
The Station Master nodded approvingly. "Looks like you have very capable subordinates."
"Yeah…" Ant frowned wryly. "But did they really have to sacrifice all those train cars to prove it?"