As of this writing, I'm in Semarang with relatives; no worries, everyone here's doing fine. Aaaaand I'm back in Jakarta as of August 15th, my time.

So far, our hero has had his first proper kill as Kuuga Mighty Form, with the assistance of the Pretty Cures. As I said before, some of the events will follow the TV series. This time, we'll get some bike action from the Trychaser 2000! Well, you would if only the chapter wasn't this long. Next chapter, promise!

But wait, how does the SI-Me would learn how to do some Bike-Fu like Godai? If you reread the last few chaptes, Arcle/Riku had altered his body so he could have easier time learning those skills.

"Wait a minute!" you may ask, "Doesn't that means the SI-You is a Kaizou Ningen?"

Well… Yes. After some researches, Kaizou Ningen does NOT translated into "Cyborg", because it basically meant, "Altered Human." They used the word cyborg with "Saibougu", aka in Gratuitous English/Engrish. At first I'm okay with the word translating into cyborg, and then we have Kamen Riders Amazon and Shin (Yeah, he counts to me, shut it). Nope, no metallic body parts whatsoever, but their bodies WERE altered so they can take many punishments. Godai Yuusuke is also a Kaizou Ningen, how else do you explain him coming back from the dead and getting the Rising Forms?

Anyways, I'll get to the point of SI-Me achieving Rising Form… Not quite sure how, but I'll worry about that later.

Alright, ON WITH THE STORY!

Oh yeah, from now on, the narration—be it from the SI-Me or third person, will tell you when non-Japanese language is being spoken, and spoken Grongi languages will still be in italics. And like in many literatures, when a word is emphasized, it's in italics too. Bolded word means that's in English; see Date Masamune of Sengoku Basara (whether it's the games or the anime) to get how it's being used.

Episode 6: Calmness

Tokyo Police Headquarters, February 1st 2011

"Alright, people. As you all know, there have been many disappearances and deaths since the mass breakout last month. From Hokkaido to Kyushu, the reports have only increased since. We need a solution."

The Japanese Commissioner General of Japan's national police force briefed the gathered police representative Superintended Generals from all over Japan. "It has been rumored that the three days rain that happened from January first to third were an omen which caused this incident. However, we are investigating this on a scientific basis, not superstitions."

Then, a projector showed pictures to the white screen, one by one they showed remnants of various crime scenes; one has a warehouse covered in webbings, another shown one of the naval JSDF bases that are littered with human limbs, and finally-perhaps the most troublesome—was an American owned military airfield in Okinawa, some of the jets have claw marks with bloods. Not to mention of scattered multicolored feathers lying around.

"These… were the bad news. The good news is that we have pictures that may identify who or what was responsible for this problem. We have designated them with the codename, Unidentified Life Forms(A/N: Mikakunin Semetai, just like in the show)" As the General nodded to the projectionist to continue the slideshow, the attendants watched in disgust as each pictures shown hideously grotesque humanoid creatures, from insectoids to beastlike types, the representatives were getting more worried. "Sir, just what are these things? They are unlike any creatures on Earth."

"If I didn't know better, they looked like something out of a tokusastsu show; don't you think so, grandfather?"

"Hmm, now that you mention it, the spider and bat creatures somewhat remind me of the ones I saw back in '71 and—Waittaminute, who said that?!"

All the men within the room turned their gaze to the young woman behind them, wearing a dark brown trench coat, Taki Asuka stood proudly, but instead of her usual ponytailed hair, she had braided it this time.(A/N: Think Lara Croft) "Asuka! Long time no see, granddaughter of mine. I really miss you." The Commissioner General said as he walked and hugged his granddaughter, which she responded in kind, "Kojiro-Ojiichan, I missed you too." As they broke the hug, the FBI agent took out a bunch of photographs from her coat, and put them all on the table. The Commissioner General; Taki Kojiro, took one in his hand and asked, "Asuka, where did you get such clear pictures?" "Sorry, grandpa; that's FBI secret." Asuka replied, who then "activated" her puppy dog eyes, "I really do want to tell you how I got those pictures, and I have my orders to help you guys… But you know how it is with the FBI and all their secrecies..."

The old man merely smiled and nodded, "I understand, my dear… But as much as I love to get back in touch with you, we still have business to discuss. Tell us how you made contact with these things." He then put on a serious face and tone; he does love his granddaughter, but right now he has a more important matter to attend to. In return, Asuka put on her game face, and retold how she wound up with those pictures, "It all started back in January twenty eight, when my leads led me to Midori City…"

January 29th, Midori City Mall, 20.00 PM

My, my, what a day…

Not only I have finally achieved Mighty Form, I gained new allies in the form of the Max Heart Pretty Cures. Although, it wasn't quite easy to explain to the trio; especially Nagisa… But I'll worry about her later. I arrived early at the mall, Kaoru and Michiru were still there, comforting the children. A few minutes later, the Cures came back.

The six of us regrouped back at the mall, since Asuka had no idea that these five girls were the Pretty Cures, they immediately flew away with me as I rode back into the mall. Fortunately, I didn't bump into any police cars. Don't want them to get suspicious.

The good news is, Asuka returned to the mall with none the wiser. The bad news is that she immediately karate chopped my forehead for leaving the girls. "Dammit, woman! What was that for?!" "That's for disobeying orders and abandoning the girls, Young One." She argued, which I retorted, "I'm not even a deputy, how am I disobeying an order if I'm not a member of a group who follows order, like the military?! Besides, if I didn't come you will surely land in a bigger pinch!"

As the two of us argued, Mai came to my rescue and calmed both of us, "Both of you, stop fighting! Asuka-san, don't be mad at him, I mean… He's only trying to help, right?" Oh yeah, Kaz told her that his sister and Saki are in the know, so Asuka knew what she meant. Saki followed immediately and said, "Yeah! And besides, we're big girls now! Would be embarrassing if we can't take care of ourselves like you do at this age, right?" Ooh, nice touch.

After a few seconds, Asuka sighed in defeat, "Alright, I get your meaning. As for you, Young One…" oh boy, here we go again—Why is she petting my head? "Thanks for the help. Maybe one day I'll return the favor." She said with a wink.

"So… what now, Asuka? I mean, I've beaten the monsters except the bat Grongi, Gooma is surely to report to Daguva of the completion of his mission. That's the bat guy's name in the show, by the way, so I'm using it." And then it hit me, "Say, you're going to report this to you superiors, aren't you?

"Yes, what of it?" I immediately cupped my hands together and kneeled, "Pleaaaaaaaase don't tell them about me, Onee-sama! I know you probably have your orders and all, but I don't want them to experiment on me! And I'm most afraid that they wouldn't believe you and they'll no longer take you seriously if you reveal me, and—"

Once again, Asuka put her hands on my mouth to shut me up. "I get it, I get it! Calm down already!"

Linto, do you always overreact like this?

You don't get it, they're one of the few female friends I have, and they know and understand my quirks! As an introvert that's something important!

Still, you should learn to not overreact like that all the time.

Suddenly, Asuka grabbed my head and… put her forehead against mine? "A-Asuka?"

"Rasyid, I understand what you mean; it's true that I have to report my findings to my superior, but you can trust me to leave you out. However, I have to report that a dashing figure in red saved me and the hostages, with the Pretty Cures help, of course. Don't worry, everybody know who those girls are."

"B-but what if they don't believe you-" She jerked my head again to stop me, "I'll worry about that, Rasyid. All you need to do is grow stronger and be brave. Oh, by the way, that karate chop was for making me worry."

"Well, sorry… I was worried about you too." I should be embarrassed for saying that, since it's an indication of sorts that a person fancies another. But I'm genuinely worried for her safety. Hell, I will NEVER lie when it comes to people's safety and my concern for them, "I mean it; I'm not one of those stupid hardheaded bashful anime guys who don't know how to handle their emotions when it comes to some individuals. Wait, that's basically all of them. I still need control over my emotions, but I'm not like those guys and—" a pair of lips came down on both of my cheeks, and my forehead, "This one is for saving my life again, this one for congratulating you on getting Mighty Form… And this one is just because I find you to be cute this close."

"… Hubbada habbadi hwa? Shing-Ding Shamalama Bring-Brong!"

Linto, what matter of speech is that?

Shabbadoobee Tacchi Hengshim! Hiisuifuudou Boujabayudogon!

"Uh… Young One? Are you alright?" Hazukha Breddi! Huee Raikki! "OW!" Once again, she chopped my forehead. "W-what did I do this time?"

"… And that's it. After he came to my rescue, I returned to the mall to survey the situation, and when the captured citizens were returned, I left the city and reported the event to my superiors."

"Unbelievable! Not only you didn't get the Pretty Cures' autographs, but you said a Kamen Rider saved you?!"

"Ojii-chan! Forget about the autographs, you're beautiful granddaughter's life was in jeopardy but you worry about that?"

"Nonsense! I've recommended you myself to be enlisted to the force, I know you could handle yourself… Not to mention you have your own bodyguard, it seems…"

The other representatives were having mixed reaction regarding the FBI agents account; some were quite accepting over the sudden appearance of an actual Kamen Rider—a famous name amongst their country's television screens—since they knew the existence of the Pretty Cures. Others were skeptical, for said sudden appearance aroused suspicions within their minds. Who is the man behind the mask, what was his true purpose in their country, how are they going to find out where he is, and when will their luck would lead them to getting the Pretty Cures autographs… For their daughters and grandchildren, of course; it's silly that these old men want anything to do with a bunch of magical girls in frilly dresses. However, only the projectionist was wondering why the representatives were are okay with the Takis' bantering in the meeting hall? Fortunately, she has seen crazier things than that.

"But, seriously though, Ojii-chan. What are you going to do next?" Asuka asked, her tone returning into a serious one. "I mean, in the original show, Kuuga was attacked by the police since they thought him to be one of the monsters." General Taki pondered, he really wants to make his granddaughter happy and do what she asked, but as the man in charge of Japan's entire police force, his decision could change the nation's opinions, for good or worse. "Asuka-chan… You know that as Commissioner General, I must do what is best for this country, right? I can't simply let my emotion get the better of me; we have to do this professionally and analytically."

Asuka felt disheartened, but she knew that he was right. She does want to protect the citizens, and as an FBI Agent, the ones from other countries also count. And it is also those citizens that are part of the problem; many weren't too eager to be protected by a mysterious figure like the appearance of the "real" Kamen Rider Kuuga, even the Pretty Cures are targets of their hate. She had heard naysayers protesting that the girls were too young for such harsh life. Their supporters countered that they were the only protection they got from the crazy and weird creatures that have appeared since 2004 (or was it 2007? They still debate which team came when) and many women, mostly mothers, said that the Pretty Cures were role models to their daughters.

However, she must do this professionally and not let her emotions get the better of her, "A-alright, Ojii-chan… Just promise me that you ask first, shoot later. And I want to interrogate him myself."

"… Alright. But you must follow my orders, is that clear, granddaughter of mine?" said Kojiro as he straightened himself, "I still remember how enamored you were watching Kamen Rider Kuuga eleven years ago, I know you and your siblings are fans of the show, but this is reality; I doubt the rest of the police force would want everything to be handled by the Kamen Rider."

He then turned towards the representatives, "Gentleman, I have come up with some decisions; our first order of business is to increase patrol in all parts of the nation, tell them to leave no stone unturned, and make them go into an abandoned warehouse or the forests in order to find these creatures… Before I forget, we shall keep designating the creatures with the moniker, 'Mikakunin Semetai", I doubt they will take it seriously if we named them after a group of monsters from a television show. Second, if any one of your men or women spots this Kamen Rider Kuuga, observe his actions before any of you decide to arrest him… And do NOT shoot on sight. Honestly, if the media found out that one of the police shot a Kamen Rider, our public image would be slandered; we would be called "Hero Killers!" or something like that. What say you all?"

The representatives murmured with each other over the General's decisions and words. After a minute or two, they came to a decision, and they agreed to his terms.

"Very well, then. This meeting is concluded. Thank you for coming, all of you."

One Hour Later, Taki Kojiro's Manor, 13.00

Both of the Takis were having lunch, just a simple, non-fancy lunch. They were conversing as they fed, and the General decided with one topic, "So, Asuka-chan, it's been five years since I have heard from you… How's work with the FBI? Mind telling me again how you got recruited?"

"Let's see… I remember that an Interpol agent, an American-German named Henrietta Birkin, and a detective named Sayama Kaede; Henrietta got married and changed her name to Yuuki now. There was this incident in Kamurocho and I was there helping them; you remember the back in two thousand six?"

Kojiro nodded at the memories of the grim event, because he was in charge of the situation then. "I remember. The Hojo-kai Yakuza and the Jungweon Mafias were at war, and that city was the epicenter. Wasn't there a man involved, a former Yakuza with a dragon tattoo on his back? I think there were two of them with such tattoos, going after each other according to the reports given by detective Sayama—" Asuka interrupt Kojiro by raising her hand, "Speaking of detective Sayama, how is she? Wasn't she sent to the United States for special training?"

"Indeed she was, and I believe she's with the CIA now… You haven't been in touch with her?" "Well, not really… Anyway, during the event the three of us were in a shootout inside the Millennium Tower, not to mention there was a bomb at the top of the tower. Kaede went ahead, and Henrietta ordered me to cover her. I did, but I lost her after a few floors, and there were civilians at the floor I was in. I stood my ground, and when I ran out of ammo, I pick up the MP5's the mobs used and kept going. Unfortunately, they got one of my arms and legs, but I kept shooting… Fortunately, Henrietta came to my rescue, Kaede too, and she was carrying a man with him, one of the guys with the dragon tattoos… He's a good looking guy, but I feel that Kaede nabbed him first."

"Hmph. I thought you're not one of those girls who like these so-called bad boys, Asuka-chan. Don't tell me you're…" "N-no way, Ojii-chan! I've passed that phase ages ago! Besides, even though I'm not really sure… I found this cute guy. He's a year younger than me, but he's more mature than most guys his age." Kojiro piqued his eyebrow, so she has found someone for her, he thought. Unlike most men with children or grandchildren, Taki Kojiro rarely does the "You're-a-man-who-fancies-my-female-relatives-and-I-hate-your-guts-until-proven-otherwise" routine, because he trusted Asuka. No to mention that she's capable of fending off random hooligans, "So, who is this young man that piqued your interest, granddaughter of mine?"

"Oh, how do I explain it…"

January 29th, 22.00 AM

Alright, if you have been paying attention, me and Asuka have… a bond of sorts. Whether it's her impulsiveness or her own will, she kissed me three times. I remember the girls scolding me for my overreaction, but I can't help it; such thing has never happened to me before, EVER! Fortunately, they dropped the matter and we; yours truly, the Max Heart trio and Team Splash Star minus Saki who went home after her parents called, and the Kiryuu sisters who went their way… Where is their house, anyway? Never mind, we then decided to have a chat regarding my… condition inside the Mishou family's house. Mr. and Mrs. Mishou immediately glomped their only daughter out of worry. As much as I wanted to go to sleep immediately as I return, a pair of hands belonging to a certain redhead dragged me into Mai's room. A 14-16 year old girl dragging the 20 year old me… that's new.

"Alright, we're no longer in danger now; mind telling us what did you just do?"

"…Gee, I dunno. Maybe if you asked me nicely I would probably—"

"Speak Japanese, will you?! Why are you being difficult?"

"Why don't you just calm down; I AM willing to speak, but yelling won't help, you know? Not to mention it's in the middle of the night, you'll disturb the neighbors."

Linto, perhaps agitating her is not the best choice for now.

I can't help it; for some reason trolling her like this is irresistible!

Then get rid of such desires and explain to these three. This juvenile behavior must stop, and do you not want to be more mature?

Jeez Louise… So, I cut to the chase and explain to Team Max Heart everything. My being from another universe, why I can Henshin into a Kamen Rider, what the Grongi are, who's in charge of them, etc. I thought the three would be more skeptical, but since they ARE the first team, they've seen enough weird shit to accept my existence and any other weirdness.

Yukishiro Honoka, Cure White, then asked me, "You speak of a wormhole, tearing the fabric of time and space, was the cause of you being here, Surataruna-san." "Please, just call me Rasyid. Seriously, it's alright." "…Very well, Rasyid-san. As I was saying, that in theory, shouldn't said wormhole could help you bring you back home?"

I pondered for a few seconds, and replied, "Well, according to some of the science-fiction shows I've seen, it is possible for a wormhole to go both ways. I mean, an actual wormhole made by earthworms DO go both ways, right? But the problem here," I stood up and walked as I talked, "is how, where, and when will this wormhole reappear. And the biggest question for me is… Why? Why did it bring me to this world? If whoever responsible wanted a powerful warrior to combat the threat, this world have you girls; why me?"

"Not only that," I laid my back against Mai's bed as I sat down on the floor, "Why did this Random Omnipotent Being brought not only me, but the Grongi leader N-Daguva-Zeba? This belt inside me, and Daguva, were all just toys… J-just why? I don't understand."

As we sat in silence, digesting the information, I began to wonder… What if this entire event that happened to me, is all part of a fanfiction?

Wait, what nonsense do you speak of, Linto?

Well, I did tell you that I believe that there are other versions of myself and they all exist in the multiverse. In return, in one of those multiverses there exists one or two where the fictional characters that are based on Earth actually exist. Like, Batman exists for real, or there's another me who is a woman…

Your point is?

What if the one responsible for my predicament… Is myself? I theorized that if one imagines it, whether it is an action or an idea; there exist five to one hundred universes where one's action or ideas are done, regardless if they happen exactly how they envisioned it or not. And it's like Rule Thirty Four; if you thought of it, there's porn of it. But in this case, if you thought of it, in another place and time, it just happened. Makes me wonder if all those self-insert stories actually happened to the authors in one of many parts of the multiverse… Even if they appear in a relatively normal fictional work, like romance novels, or Sherlock Holmes stories.

You are saying as if your existence is fictional…

Well, look at these girls; I know they are fictional in my universe, but here, they're real. And perhaps in seven or more universes… Damn, why am I thinking metaphysical bullshit like this? I know I'm real, and they know they're real; fiction or not, they have their own existence and questioning this kind of thing is irrelevant to the situation I am right now!

"Rasyid-san… Are you still with us?"

Mai's voice brought me back to reality, "Wha—Yes, I'm still here. What's wrong?" Oh, wow, she really looked worried. "Is there something wrong? You looked tired, Rasyid-san."

"I… maybe it's because my body isn't used to the transformation yet. In the show, Godai did have some difficulties during his early episodes as he becomes Kamen Rider Kuuga. Maybe since I wasn't exactly experienced, that was the reason why I'm this… odd."

"You're saying you weren't this odd before?" "Haha, very funny, Nagisa. Fortunately, I like being odd." I smiled smugly to her, which slightly annoyed her. "But seriously though, the Grongi are the bigger problem right now. From the fight hours ago, we know that they are kidnapping humans for a reason. Whether it's for food, or enslavement, we must stop them."

I dragged myself over to the Max Heart trio, and explained, "I'm sorry for dragging this problem into your world, but if you want the people you cherish most to be safe from their claws, we have to work together." I explained my plans and gave the three a few moments to comply, and Honoka, the smart gal of the team (hell, every Mahou Shoujo team have their smart ones), speak up, "Alright, let me make this clear; you propose for an alliance against the Grongi. And to do that, you want us to tell the other Pretty Cures to patrol their cities alongside the local police force… But you don't want us to tell them who you are?"

"Yes, I do realize that's a weird request… But I'm not really ready to reveal myself to this world. I mean, even though the world practically know you girls exist, I doubt they believe that a TV show character from an eleven years old toku show has suddenly become real. Not to mention that I am from another universe; I'm honestly unsure if there's another me in this universe and even if that other me exist here… Surely you can guess how incredibly problematic and complicated this will be, right?"

Nagisa scratched her head, "I can't believe this! I never expected a trip to Midori City would lead to this mess! And you said that you want to visit each of the Pretty Cures hometowns, including ours, to train with us? I thought you're training with that detective lady; you're sure quite chummy with each other, you know that?"

... The memory of Asuka kissing me reappeared, and I felt my face burning up. Blast it, woman. "About that… I'm not entirely sure if she's interested in me in that way. Maybe she was just being grateful, maybe that's was all an impulsive decision… Honestly, I don't get this romance thing."

I laughed at myself, and switched to English, "Alive for twenty years, and I'm still clueless when it comes to love… What use do I have for romance, anyway? Not exactly a boyfriend or husband material. All I know best is otaku knowledge and all sorts of pop cultural trivia… Other than that, fighting is what I can only do."

Once again, Mai looked at me worriedly, and this time the Max Heart trio joined in. "Hey, it's alright. Even if I can't do all that, I can still be a good company. I won't let my so-called misfortune put me down. Nor would I let it affect any of you, don't worry, okay?" with a thumbs up and a smile, I assured the four, and went out to Kazuya's room. "If you excuse me, it's getting late and I want to sleep; you all should get some rest too."

…You know, I'm not even sure why I insisted on doing the thumbs up thing. It IS Kuuga's thing, but I'm between not into it at all, and obliged to do it. Heh, must be the other me that's orchestrating this bullshit. Whatever, there's one thing I do now for sure, though.

And that would be?

I'm not going to die. Not yet, at least. That's how I would write a story, and I'm sure that other me thinks the same way as I.

Police HQ, Basement Parking Area, 12.45 PM

"Hmmm… this Indonesian sounds like an interesting fellow. You're saying he has lost his belongings? Perhaps I could order the men to search for his items, and maybe…"

"Oh, I forgot to mention that he lost them all in a freak storm. He claimed that a lightning bolt struck down his suitcase to smithereens. I'm… no really sure if his claim was true, but, as the Americans say, shit happens, you know?"

"Indeed… But next time, watch your language, young lady." Said the elder Taki as he lightly chopped his granddaughter's forehead. "I am still your grandfather, and I do not tolerate random foul languages. We may work in different fields, but we share the same idea; to promote justice. Perhaps starting by promoting polite speaking would be beneficial?"

Asuka rubbed her forehead, despite the lack of strength seen during his karate chop, she felt the pain just as any other kind of assault; the old man is stronger than he looks, she thought to herself. "Oww… If you say so, Ojii-chan."

As they reached Kojiro's car, Asuka planned to walk straight to her car, before her grandfather stopped her to speak momentarily, "Asuka-chan, from what you told me of the boy, he's still hasn't quite grown up. If you really do fancy the Indonesian, I suggest you be blunt with him, and be honest with your feelings; you know how clueless most men are when it comes to romance. I should know; that's how I met your grandmother. You have no idea how embarrassed I was when she told me all those years ago…"

"Don't worry, Ojii-chan. I know what I'm doing. But for now, I think him and I being friends first would be the best step." "Then perhaps you should ease down the teasing; young men these days are too stupid to figure it out, you know?" "I can't! Rasyid is just too fun to tease!"

With that, they went their separate ways; Kojiro going for a different meeting while Asuka returning to Midori City; she remembered her promise to help Rasyid to make himself stronger, and she knows what to do next.

Midori City Outskirts, February 2nd, 2011

I'm going on a date!

…That's what I would love to say, if only the circumstances didn't lead to this.

Anyways, Asuka phoned me in the morning via Kazuya, telling me that my riding skills needed work. Not being a morning person, I argued halfheartedly that we can do it tomorrow… That is, until she told us that the Tachibanas could help me.

Seriously, first Taki, then Tachibana. I knew of the Tachibana is an actual family name, thanks to Koei introducing Tachibana Ginchiyo in Samurai Warriors 2. But if this is the Tachibana that I think it is; be it someone who represents the Tachibana Tobei, or the ones in Hibiki… Damn, who are next on the list, Hongo and Ichimonji suddenly appearing from another dimension just to help me out? Kamen Riders Agito through Kabuto popping up when All-Stars New Stage begins with each seven Riders including me teaming up with the seven Pretty Cures team while that Seven Riders song from Kamen Rider Stronger plays at the background, only with the lyrics matching the Heisei Riders? Hogwash, I say!

Someone smacked my left arm; I looked to the left and see Asuka in the driver seat of her car, "Come on, Young One! Stop dozing off, the light's going to change!" "Gah! My bad, my bad!"

I shook my head, and prepared for the light to turn blue (not green like in most countries), and when it did, I let Asuka drive ahead and followed her. Wherever the Tachibanas of this world are, they're somewhere close to the highways.

As we stop to a rest area to refuel and buy some food in the minimarket, I approached Asuka and asked in English, "So, what's the story? I mean, the Tachibanas… You do know that they share the same name—" which Asuka finished, "-With Tachibana Tobei from the original Kamen Rider, just like me with Taki Kazuya. I know." She drank a bottle of water as she continues talking, "You could say me and Oba-san formed a bond thanks to some of the kids making similarities with those two."

Hold the phone… Oba-san? "So… not Oya-san?" she looked at me judgingly, "Hey now! Don't take this the wrong way, I don't mind with women being in charge, I'm just… a bit surprised that this particular Tachibana you're going to introduce me is a woman. Nothing wrong with that, honest! I'm not one of those guys who go," I started imitating a mock tough guy voice, "What's a woman doing in a bike shop? This is a job for guys, man! You don't belong here!" I immediately switched to my normal voice, "If someone actually does that, he's either a dumbass or have a death wish. I mean it; some guys just keep underestimating women..."

Fortunately for me, Asuka giggled at my explanation, "Nice save there, Young One. Yes, her name is Tachibana Kairi. She took over the business when her husband, Taiichi passed away a decade ago, now she had help from her nieces. Don't get any ideas with them."

"Hey, consider whatever ideas you think I would have banished. I'm probably not their type of guy, anyway." This remark earned a curious glance from Asuka… and was that sympathy I saw from her eyes this time? Nah, can't be. For the record, I'm not one of those guys who are like, "I don't need sympathies from others." I just don't get those kinds of people; what's wrong with people worried about you? Then again, perhaps whatever harshness that befall upon them made them like that, can't really blame them from being douchey.

With a giggle, she asked, "What's wrong, Young One, not confident with the opposite sex?" I sighed, she just hit the bullseye. "Exactly… I'm shit when it comes to romance; even if I'm confident to get in a relationship, my only way to know what to do are the movies. And you know how mostly clichéd they all are." I wanted to stop at that, but for some reason I continued," But the most important problem for me… I'm no self sufficient. I mean, I'm not mature enough to be able to take care of myself; I don't even have any job experience other than being the Saki's delivery man, and I suck at remembering routes if I suddenly got thrust into someplace new. Now how am I going to take care of my future lover or wife if I can't even take care of myself, what kind of man am I if I can't even take care of myself?!"

I felt the patron's gaze upon us, I clicked my tongue and walked outside, Asuka following. "Rasyid, wait!" she grabbed my shoulder lightly, as sour as my mood was, I won't lash out on her. Let's hear what she has to say this time, "I… I'm sorry. I didn't knew you were this sensitive—" "Yes, because we aren't supposed to be sensitive with their feelings; we have to be macho men who thinks with their muscles, are we?" "You're not listening, calm down!" "FUCK CALM! How about I—"

As my rage boils up, my body froze, and I heard… HIM speaking.

Yes… let it loose, it is easier that way… Kuuga.

I felt that time was frozen as his words echoes throughout my mind… But I was saved.

Linto! Do not let the beast tempt you! Do not succumb to the bloodlust! Do not let grave harm come upon the maidens you have begin to care and love!

By the time Riku snapped me out, I must have blacked out, since I was lying on the floor, with Asuka shaking my body. "Rasyid! You're okay!" cried the agent in Japanese—Wait, she's actually crying! Oh, hell no! What have I done—

The FBI Agent hugged my as tightly as she could, "Oh my goodness, I'm sorry, I'm SO sorry!"

"A-Asuka… It's okay, I'm fine… I'm fine…"

One Awkward Minute Later…

Right now, we're sitting at Asuka's car, her being on the driver's seat and me at the passenger's seat. And my Trychaser a few meters next to it. I guess…. This is the part where we talks things out.

"Asuka… Look, it's obviously my fault. I should've had better controls over my emotions. Yes, it's true that's a sensitive subject for me, but… I have never gotten that angry before, ever!" she listens on as she wiped her tears with some tissues. Goddammit, me, good job shedding a maiden's tears!

"And as you said days ago, I DO have quite a problem with these overreactions… But I swear to Allah, I will never, EVER, let my anger get the better of me. I won't let it blindside me, no matter what the subject that angered me was. I would rather punch my own genitals!" This time, it's my turn to hold her hands, "I… I heard Daguva's voice as my anger boils." "W-what? Really?" "Yes, this isn't some lame-ass excuse, his voice echoed in my mind, and this isn't the first time it happened… He wants me to get angry, and as we have discussed last month, we both know why…"

"He… he wants you to go berserk so you'll create chaos upon the land… Before you bring forth the Ultimate Darkness, to end everything… Oh my God." I held her hands tighter, "Asuka, I will never let it come to that. And I'm sure the Pretty Cures would be there to stop me from doing it!"

A realization came to me, as I let go of her hands, "But… if they do that, they will live with the guilt of killing a person. It's not like the monsters people say they've fought, but if they fight me in my berserk Ultimate Form, they have no choice but to KILL me… I can't let them live with that, I can't!"

That Final Solution… is always the most difficult solution to carry out.

Indeed… And I know that you might suggest getting Asuka to do it, since she has been "hardened" due to her job. But… I don't know, it feels so damn wrong to make her—

"You're suggesting that I should shoot you then?" "Yeah, but I won't—Wait, how did you know—"

Something hit my right cheek. No matter what injury I will sustain in the future, I believe this shall remain to be the most painful injury I have ever gotten. "How fucking dare you!" cried Asuka, her tear ducts are basically leaking from her eyes. "How dare you suggest that I have to be the one take your life!"

"Asuka, you don't understand, I wasn't suggesting that! I would never let you do such a thing; no, I REFUSE to let such task befall upon you! I don't want to subject you with such pain and guilt! I—"

What follows, is the most tender moment I have ever experienced in my life, second only to my mother's love… This is a woman's love to a man; be it in friendship or… that type of love.

Asuka held me tight and squeezed, not wanting to let go. "Rasyid, whatever happens… I believe you could surpass it. I know you are stronger than you think you are, but you shouldn't follow someone else's example; don't try to become Godai Yuusuke, don't try to become one of those shonen anime heroes… Just be Rasyid Surataruna. In all my life, many of the men that I've met were uncouth. Other than my grandfather or my male relatives, you are the only man I know to see me as not just a woman, but a person… I don't want to lose someone like you."

I've said it before, and I'll say it again; this kind of thing has never EVER happened to me before. Forget the "other me from another universe orchestrating everything I'm experiencing" bullshit, this… I'm so speechless I can't even comprehend how it has led to this moment… But no use complaining, you know?

However, there is one thing I could do, and it was an impulsive move… No regret!

"Asuka…" She slowly released me as I said her name. In return, I slowly move my hands to hold her face, and kissed her forehead. "In the name of Allah, I swear I will not let myself be consumed by the darkness, and I will protect everyone's smile… Yours is my number one priority. So please… won't you show me that beautiful smile of yours to me? I always find it to be one of your most charming points."

It felt like hours to me, but Asuka slowly showed me that smile of hers. I could see a bit of redness on her face, whether it's because of her crying or me calling her beautiful, it doesn't really matter…

… Holy shit, I actually said that and it works! I thought only the movie protagonist could make a woman do this!

Linto, stop your monologues and make your damn move already.

And… I did. She seems to reciprocate.

…That is, until one of us accidentally hit one of the buttons that made everything loud.

"Holy shit, what is this noise?!" "Make it stop!" "It's your car, fix it!" "Then help me find the button!" "Is it this one?" "No, that's the siren—Argh! You're making it worse!"

Another Awkward Minute Later…

…

A single matchstick is all one needs to start a fire.

And what's that's supposed to mean?

I'm basically saying that shit happens, Linto.

…

The two of us sat on the car for minutes. Having enough, I decided to speak up, "So… maybe it's time to go to the Tachibanas now? I mean, don't want to keep them waiting long, right?" "Huh? Oh, of course! I did called Oba-san yesterday that we're coming today…. Better not keep her waiting." "Uh, yeah, just what I said. "Uh-huh."

…

As I attempt to exit the car, Asuka held my hand, "Rasyid… I won't fool myself that what happened a few minutes ago didn't happen. I'm… kind of glad it did. However, I'm not… really sure if we're both ready for this, not this soon, at least." The cymbal monkey in my brain processed the information she just gave to me… Fortunately, I said something coherent. "So… you want to take things slow for now?"

"Uh… yes, I do. That is, until all this fighting is over, you know? I… I know it might take a while, but…" I held her hand tighter to make her focus her attention on me, "Hey, it's alright… I'll wait until hell freezes over if I have to." I said with a wink, and this time, it's her turn to blush.

Hmm… You have gained quite a confident boost Linto. Wherever did you get such inner strength?

Haven't you been paying attention, Riku? That's how humanity works; it just happens.

Meanwhile, at the same time the stupid not-couple are doing their thing… Aaaaand cue the car ruining it.

"My, my… young couples these days sure are rowdy." Said a woman with short green hair. Very few know who she is, but she is the elder sister of one of the Pretty Cures. With her trusty motorcycle, she put on her helmet and rode to her destination; the Tachibana Racing Club. "Hope those two do well in the future."

Unbeknownst to her, but on the forest overlooking the highway, a pair of feline eyes were watching for its next prey… and she has found one speeding with her machine steed. Her hunt begins…

Alrighty then, it's done!

This is my first attempt to write something romantic, terribly sorry for the crappy results. I hate reading romance novels (they're mostly for middle aged women, anyway lol) and my only source of knowledge of romantic stuffs are eroge visual novels and hentai manga with romantic plots. Yes, you read it right. Napata (whom Asuka's looks are based on one of the artist's girls) is one of such hentai mangakka who write such kind of stories. Go find HER stories (yes, apparently Napata's a she) yourself and enjoy. In the meantime, search for the ones with Vanilla tags.

Am I making their relationship move too fast? This story will have a harem element, the girls will consist of some of the Cures and the normal ones, be they established character from the shows or OCs.

Sorry for the meta crap in this chapter; but that's something I'm quite interested in about.

I bet most of you are wondering why there are few actions here… If you have been paying attention, you know that Kamen Rider Kuuga is mostly a tale about the humans trying to survive the Grongi attacks, with Godai as the POV character for the most part. You must remember that in all toku, it's not about the mask or the suit of armor; it's about the person underneath it and who he or she socializes with. I've been reading a lot of fanfics, and I only read few that dwells on the human part of socializing in depth. I know they exist, but 80% of the time, they're hard to find.

Another thing, I have a timeline for this particular Pretty Cure universe; the All-Stars movies.

It all started in '07, with the first seasons of Futari wa Pretty Cure (aka the original show) and Yes! Precure 5 happening. In '08, Splash Star happens, alongside Max Heart and Yes! 5 GOGO at the same time; it's hard to believe, but all those final battles happened only in their respective cities, are isolated incidents, and let's just say a bunch of MIBs neuralyze many them. (I could say a wizard fixed it, but nah XD)

Then, in 2009, the first All-Stars movie premiered, not to mention Fresh Precure happening (although still only three of them then) and then the rest is history!

And yes, I'm probably the only self-insert author to admit that he's… not quite right in the head. It's this kind of weirdness that spice up life, you know?

If there are parts where I fuck up and/or created plot holes, grow a pair/steel your ovaries and just tell it to me straight. I still have a lot to learn when it comes to story telling, and I wish to make it better. I don't want a simple "lol Cool" or a "Meh" or whatever. FYI I will ALWAYS reply to my reviews, and to anon reviewers that have good points in their reviews, thanks. Wish I could discuss it with ya, though.

Now if you excuse me, I must come up with a character for the Tachibanas… Also, guess who the green haired woman is! Imma give you lots of cookies so you can eat them like Cookie Monster rofl

Oh, and guess what Asuka was talking about that got her recommended to the FBI. Here's a hint; Sega owns the franchise.

Read, Review, and Rejoice! For The Stranger shall return…