Episode 10: Alliance
Odawara Outskirts, 14:20 PM
It took me quite a while to figure out how to tune in to the police's radio frequencies via the Trychaser's radio. But Asuka shoved me away and dialed some numbers via the keypad, only then I realized that I never knew what the frequency was to begin with. Not sure if I will be using them in the future, but that's just stupid of me, trying to tune in without knowing what the frequency is.
We did so because I have no idea where exactly the cops have Mebio surrounded… and if this goes on, she'll gouge their eyes out, all of 'em. On the other hand, I'm currently one of Nippon's Most Wanted. What would the cops and detectives dispatched to hold her do if they saw me? I know this being the Precure Universe makes things a bit more optimistic, but would said optimism work on me?
A tap on my shoulder broke my pondering, "Rasyid, come on! The chatter said that they got the Grongi surrounded, but there have been multiple requests for backup. I don't think they can hold her off for much longer!"
"…Bismillah. Let's do this!"
Hopping onto the Trychaser, I revved the vehicle up. Asuka went into her car, and I followed her to the crime scene… Oh man, what a time to get cold feet.
Worried that these lawmen will shoot you again, Linto?
That and I don't know what to do to convince them that I'm one of the good guys.
I have faith that you can. Whatever these cold feet are, do not forget the maidens' encouragement.
As if I'm forgetting that. No way, this time… I'm going all out.
"Young One, can you hear me?"
I looked around for Asuka, only to remember that we're on the road, currently stopping on a red light, and her car's window isn't open… No way, "Asuka, how did you know the Trychaser's frequency?"
"Sorry, trade secret." She said with a coy tone.
Heh. Must be something the Feds taught her, "Alright, be that way. Something you wanna tell me, other than showing that you somehow manage to get the bike's frequency?"
"There's something I forgot to tell you, about the police. You don't have to worry about them shooting you anymore."
Wait, what? "Are you serious? In the timespan of me passing out and waking up, you convinced the entire police force of Japan to not shoot me like fish in a barrel? What's this, another FBI mumbo-jumbo they taught you?"
She laughed for a bit before continuing, "Actually, having a grandfather who's the Commissioner General of the entire police department who adores his granddaughter kinda made it easier for me to convince the others. I don't know how he did it, but at least he'd convinced half of the force that you're not a threat."
"… Does that mean he's basically the boss of the entire police in Japan?"
"More or less, yeah."
… Damn. You know what, thinking about how exactly Japanese law enforcement work won't do me any good. Just compute the information you just heard, and nod. Just nod in acceptance… Better answer her though, "Asuka, that's one helluva grandfather you got there." Wish mine was as nice as him, though… Then again, Cracked said that old people have their brains switching to either Fight or Flight often, so… yeah.
"However, I don't know if everybody got the order, so in case the ones holding the Grongi off didn't hear it, don't worry; I'm here to back you up." I looked to my left, even though the windscreen of the driver's side was a bit dark, I could see her giving me the thumbs up, which I give back in return.
The number indicator next to the traffic lights were on 10, indicating that it would be green in a few seconds… or in this country's case, blue. When it changes, I waited for Asuka to drive first, and I followed her car steadily.
Let's just hope I'd found out what to do when we get there.
"Shoot it!"
"Damn, that thing is too fast! Oh God she's coming!"
Zu-Mebio-Da effortlessly dodged the projectiles being shot at her, the ones that did hit her merely bounced off her tough hide. Even with a missing eye, her abilities did not decrease; in fact it made her deadlier, combined with her vengeance-drive mindset.
Another unlucky officer lost an eye, screaming in agony at his missing appendage. Many others were beginning to be fearful of her, but one officer-a captain-rallied them to attack the Unknown Lifeform.
"Stand firm, men! If that thing went through us, thousands of innocents would be lost by its claws! Unless you want your families to be included as its victim, we will stand our ground! Don't let that bitch win this fight!"
"Yessir, Captain Hikaru Noa, sir!"
"Now, open fire and give her hell!"
Following his orders, the policemen shoot the Unknown Lifeform with their pistols and shotguns. Despite the ineffectiveness of their rounds, they somehow managed to stagger her a bit. Her inhuman speed allowed her to dodge most of the shots, but for some reason they'd slow her down.
Not that it would hinder her much.
Eventually, she managed to pass through the hails of hot lead and lunged towards one of the policemen, taking one of his eyes out with her claws. The others retreated behind their cars, but only Hikaru Noa stood firm. He's afraid, make no mistake, but he's determination to stop the Unknown Lifeform was stronger.
"Foolish Linto! You may have numbers on your side, but that will do you no good against me."
Hikaru Noa realized that it was capable of speech, the thought of reasoning with these Unknown Lifeforms crossed his mind, but seeing what she could do, he doubts that reason was a familiar concept to her or any of her comrades. "I don't know what you're saying," said the captain, "But if you think I'll just let you kill me that easily, you have another thing coming!" and with that he fired the last round of his revolver, hitting the center of her forehead. He retreated alongside his men, reloading his revolver as he kept his eyes on her.
Mebio plucked the bullet out of her forehead, slowly stood up and proceeded to approach the policemen. In a blink of an eye, she went straight to an officer with a shotgun, stabbing her fingers into one of his eye sockets. Throwing him away, she repeated the process until only few handfuls of officers remained, including Captain Hikaru Noa. The rest were beginning to scatter as fear took over them.
The black haired police fell on his back as Mebio slowly walked towards him. She batted his revolver away, and had her hand clenching his jaw. "Hold still, I am going to enjoy this…"
As she chuckled evilly, her fingers were slowly approaching for his right eye. Noa grabbed her right wrist and attempted to push it away with all his might. But her inhuman strength was overwhelming, "No! I… I won't let you!"
"Even in death you face it with courage? No matter, Linto, you will still be in pain as I… Huh?"
Then, as he began to think about his family in his last moments, Hikaru Noa heard the revving engine of a motorcycle. The noise was getting louder, as the rider got closer to them. Before he knew it, Mebio was thrown away, rammed by the motorcyclist on a dull grayish bike. The dusts obscured his visions, but the bright red armor the rider wore was a dead giveaway of who saved him.
"It can't be… you?" was all Hikaru could mutter, before the rider got off of his bike and approached him.
"Officer, are you alright?"
Hikaru Noa had read the reports of the previous encounter in a junkyard. After the reports of the first three lifeforms, dubbed numbers one through three, a fourth one emerged and attacked the third. Unknown Lifeform #4 was kneeling in front of him, talking in accented Japanese. A few hours ago, the higher-ups had given orders to not assault Number Four. He was a bit skeptical of why they ordered him and the others to leave him alone, but he knows why now.
'They say that he looked like a Kamen Rider,' thought the captain to himself, 'but damn… Kamen Rider Kuuga himself, even the same designation given to him in the show. Why does he look a bit different, though?'
"I have waited for you, Kuuga!"
Both of them turned to see Mebio laughing hysterically, albeit only one of them able to understand her. Kuuga stood back up, and responded the Unknown Lifeform in a language unknown to Hikaru. Could he be able to talk to them?
"Mebio… this Game of yours ends now. I won't let you kill anymore people." Said Kuuga to Unknown Lifeform #3, clenching his fists. The captain noticed the words Mebio and Gegeru being emphasized, but before he could ask what's going on, the creature lunged towards the two, only for Kuuga to punch her away, and called out his attack.
"MIGHTY RIDER SLICE!"
Regardless of why he did so, the captain saw Kuuga's right palm momentarily engulfed in flames, as the attack impacted horizontally against her face, it created a small explosion, powerful enough to have her flying a few meters away. Whatever reasons he cried out his attacks, it seems to trigger something that allows Kuuga to increase the strength of the chop.
Kuuga turned around to Hikaru Noa, "Officer, if you have any questions regarding me, go buy the DVDs of the show Kamen Rider Kuuga. They have all the answers you need to fight these things. Don't worry, I'll help out," he told him as he did Kuuga's signature thumbs-up gesture. "As long as you guys don't shoot me, that is…"
'By God… he's the real deal. He's not Godai Yuusuke, but he's real.'
Kuuga hopped back onto his bike, Hikaru noticed that his bike was an exact replica of the TRC series motorcycles used in the show. With so many questions in his mind, he did not get a chance to ask them as Kuuga chased the Unknown Lifeform—or the Grongi, as he remembered their real names from the show—and left him and his remaining men alone.
That is, until he heard a car stopping by a few meters behind him. He looked back, and saw a woman in a suit running to him, "Hey, are you alright?" she asked, "Come on, I got you."
He didn't resist and let her carry him off. His legs were numb after the adrenaline was gone from his veins, and Hikaru Noa was tired as hell. But he wasn't too tired to ask questions, "Who are you?"
"Taki Asuka, FBI. Don't ask why, just know that I'm here to help."
Hikaru Noa was no fool, his guts told him that she's here more than just to help. But he had a feeling that this whole situation may be more complicated for him to handle, so he did what she told him. However, one thing did catch his attention. "Taki… hold on, do you have any relations with Commissioner General Taki Kojiro?"
With a smile, Asuka answered, "I'm his granddaughter. Anything else you want to ask?"
"… I assume that you know more than any of us grunts, so let me ask you this." Hikaru pointed at Kuuga, chasing Mebio up on a hill and into an abandoned building. "Was that really…"
"Yep, Kamen Rider Kuuga. He's on the side of justice, just like the Pretty Cures."
Forest near Odawara, 15:00 PM
(Play BGM – Road Racin' by Riot)
Damn… that guy seriously looked like Bright Noa from UC Era Gundam, complete with those dot eyes he has in his early appearances. Not sure whether he looked like the Bright Noas from the first three shows and Char's Counterattack or how he'd looked like in Unicorn but… damn!
What is it with this world and having certain people looking similar to other non-Precure characters? First the four girls who looked like they were drawn by some of my favored hentai manga artists, then Mishima Akagi-sensei who's an exact copy of the young Heihachi from Tekken Tag 3, Tachibana-san and Doctor Midorikawa who respectively looked like Izumi Curtis from FMA and Bayonetta, and now Captain Bright himself! Don't tell me this author-self of mine or whoever this R.O.B. is will have other people I might or might not meet to have faces similar to animanga or video game characters? So goddamn uncreative-
Watch the road, Linto!
I am! I'm multitasking as I chase that crazy bitch!
Right now, I'm somewhere in a forest, riding on a dirt path with Mebio running a few meters away from me. I realized that the Trychaser was still in its civilian colors of gray and black, but I don't have time to change it. Man, does this hill goes on forever or what?
Linto, I could sense her slowing down… I have yet to discover how we achieve this power, but I do know that it tells me what the current Grongi we face are doing, even though it doesn't tell me how and why…
Riku, we'll worry about that later… Although, now that I think about it, this Spider-Sense thing we have are kinda similar to what Tsugami Tsuichi and Ashihara Ryo felt in Kamen Rider Agito. Shit, no way I have a Seed of Agito in me, I have one group of monsters that I can barely handle, those Lords guys would make things even more difficult… then again, they also hate the Grongi and did protect the original Linto Tribes according to background materials, so-
Incoming!
I looked over yonder, and saw a large branch being thrown at me. I don't have enough room to duck or dodge… here goes!
Balancing the bike, I let go of the handles and karate chopped the branch in half. I didn't call out the attack like last time, because I just… felt that I don't need to do that. Anyway, grabbing the handles again, I throttled the bike and sped up. No more distractions, her time has come!
After probably ten minutes of playing cat and mouse (how ironic considering what she is) I followed her into an old abandoned concrete building… Not sure if that building is the exact same building in the show or not, but after crashing through the chain link fence, I more worried about how I beat her.
Entering the building, I was amazed by the architecture of this place… was this a rich guy's home before they changed their minds and didn't finish building it? I scanned the room, and looking up, I saw Mebio with her hand on her hips… What does she has to say this time?
"Hmph. I'm impressed that you can catch up with me, Kuuga… Let's see if that machine of yours is as agile as it looks!"
Taunting me? Heh, I should come up with some sort of comeback, but nah. Action speaks louder than words, and my bike is very, very loud.
I revved up the Trychaser, and climbed onto the staircase after her. Holy shit, this place is bigger than I thought! What is this, some sort of obstacle course maze?
It matters not Linto. Her overconfidence shall be her downfall.
True that.
I… could explain how I chase her down in this huge ass place, but I'll make it simple; it's almost similar to how Godai chased Mebio down in the show, with me going up some makeshift ramps, both of us dodging each other on the empty pool, and more climbing with the Trychaser… Man, I knew how exciting it was when I first saw it on TV (or was it the internet before I got here? My memory's kinda fuzzy since it's been 13 years) but doing the chase myself… 'Tis exhilarating!
(End BGM)
And now… here we are. Whatever this room is, it's most likely a garage, since there are abandoned cars here (who have garages on rooftops anyway?) and here I am with my bike on one of them. Both Mebio and I stared down at each other, waiting for the other to make a move…
"What's wrong?" I asked her, can't tell if she's irritated or not with that monstrous mug of hers, "Surprised that us Linto have machines capable of outmatching your kind? You should have thought twice before messing with us."
With a laugh, I continued, "You Grongi are so damn primitive. This Game your kind make is nothing but a waste of time… and a waste of life. And for what, entertainment? You think our kind is as violent as you are?"
"Do not lecture me, Kuuga!" She spat out, "You think that just because this age are more advance, means that humanity doesn't change their habits?! I remember some of my preys, and none of them are as kind as you think."
"Of course they're not kind to you, since you're trying to kill them for this sick Game of yours!" I countered, "Your kind believed that humans are always violent? That's wrong; we're not just some single-minded monstrosities like you are. We have hopes and dreams, and even though violent humans do exist throughout history, that doesn't mean every single one of us in existence are born to kill! Like peace, kindness, and love, violence and anger are taught, whether by experiencing it or by someone telling others about it…" I revved the throttle up, focusing myself for what's coming, "And now, I'm going to teach you how to say your prayers."
The two of us lunged at each other at the same time. I pulled the bike up, and smacked her with the front wheel. She went down, only to come back up. I spun the bike around, planning to ram her again, but this time she dodged to my left and raised her claws up, but I managed to deflect her strike with my punch.
Unfortunately, her attacks made me pull the brakes, allowing her to get near me and put a choke hold. She threw me off the Trychaser, but flipped back up immediately. At first we circled each other, before Mebio made a move and attempts to strike me with her right hand. I parried it away from me, and did a combo attack consisting of punches and elbow strikes. I finished it with a knee crush to her belly.
She wasn't done yet, however, as Mebio did a backflip once and lunged at me. Her fingers got me in the visors, but I rolled back down and kicked her away from me. I made my way to her, disoriented as she stands up, I took my chances and punched her in the gut. I continued with more gutbuster punches, then some elbow strikes to her head.
Alas, my attacks are eventually blocked, and she countered with some claw swipes to my armor and helmet. She did some knee kicks in return, and the third hit pushed me away from her. Argh, they hurt, but that won't stop me!
Before I could do anything else, she got a hold of me and pushed me into some rows of iron bars. They must be really rusty, because as my back hit them, they began to fall apart. As I lie on my back, Mebio began a barrage of punches and claw swipes. She got me a few times, but after 3 or 5 hits, I caught her left wrist and throw her away. I felt one of the bars hitting my foot… An idea!
I kicked the bar upwards, which I grabbed. Even though I have yet to achieve either Dragon or Titan Form, perhaps I could practice a bit by smacking her with these bars!
Hmm… I would say this seems unfair, but I won't bother lecturing you on your pragmatism.
Hey, if it works, it works! Besides, what do these Grongi know about being fair, all their victims are normal humans, and I have to be the one to fight them. Of course, if I'm lucky, I could get help from the Pretty Cures once I made an impression on them. Also, this fight counts as a street fight; if I want to fight fair, it's only on tournaments, and this is most definitely not a competition. Too bad I can't throw a Hadouken or a Shoryuken or something.
I keep smacking her with the bar. Even though she managed to catch and bend one, there are a few more here I can use. I can just feel her irritation as she growled at me. "Enough of this!" she cried out, disarming me and kicking me away from the bars, back to the area where the cars were.
Something flew past behind me, hitting Mebio in the shoulder… Shit, was that a bullet?!
"Hold your fire, he's on our side!" I heard a woman's voice echoing in the room, struggling to stop the officer shooting at me, whoever they are. Must be Asuka.
"What gives?!" said the cop, he's seems to be having trouble getting Asuka off him. "I'm not blind, I was trying to hit that other thing! What do you want me to do, nothing at all?"
I hear more footsteps approaching, seems the cops are finally here… what's left of them anyway.
"Stand down, Kai. It's alright. He can do this."
Lo and behold… captain Bright Noa himself… At least, a version of him for this universe. Bah, no time to ponder, he's giving me a chance to fight back unhindered, and I ain't gonna waste it.
Uh-oh, guess Mebio's even more pissed off. Thankfully (or not) she goes after me instead of the cops and Asuka. I dodged right, putting myself away from her. Suddenly, things started to slow down. I still don't know how this Bullet Time thing I have works, whether Riku did or I did, but now's not the time to ponder it… I got it!
As her hand almost reached my face, I crouched down, and give her belly a right hook, then a left. Left, right, left, right… my attack goes on as I drove her close to a wall. I finished the attack with a powerful uppercut, sending her flying to the ceiling. She dropped down, groaning in pain… Waittaminute, did I just do Dudley's Rolling Thunder, which is basically the Dempsey Roll?! Holy shit, how's this even possible, I was only thinking of how to attack, but to actually do an advanced maneuver in boxing? Sweet Merciful Allah, this is nuts!
My amazement was cut short as Mebio stands up, roaring furiously. "I will kill you, Kuuga!"
Heh, not this time.
Okay, I moved backwards farther from her… Damn, I don't think the room is big enough for me to jump and kick her away. Do I really have to roll down and pushed myself towards her?
Remember Asuka's training, Linto. Do as she'd instructed and you shall be victorious.
Yeah… I can do this.
The she-grongi charges, once again everything seemed to be slowing down. I charge with her, but instead of clashing fists, I did a front roll. The world was upside down for a bit before I upright myself. My left hand is heating up, I can feel that it could give me the boost I need to do this move.
"Mighty Rider…"
With a push, the force of the hand blast sends me flying towards Mebio. I can't tell if she's surprised or not, but that will be the last expression she'll have.
"RISING TACKLE KICK!"
The both of us kept flying, my right foot still on her chest as we flew closer to the wall. As her back finally crashed to the wall, creating an impact crater, I finish her off with a bouncing kick.
"OORAAAAA!"
Kicking her with my left foot, I kicked her again with my right, this time the flames appeared and ignited on her chest, sending her through the wall. With an agonizing scream, she flew off and exploded to bits. Booyah, victory for me!
Kneeling as I catch my breath after the finisher attack did its job, I stand up and turned around, only to see the cops standing in awe, and Asuka in front of me. She's smiling with joy, and the sunlight from the nearby window shined on her… If this isn't one of those clichéd 'She looks like an angel' moments, this has to be it.
Yet, she looks rather… radiant than usual, am I wrong?
No, yer not… Well, might as well do 'that'.
I raised my right fist, and made the signature thumbs-up gesture. Widening her smile, she shook her head and turned around, giving me her thumbs-up as she walks away. Just like the show…
What is it, Linto?
I dunno. These past few days had got me thinking. How come most of my fights against the Grongi were somehow similar to what happened in the show? They're not exactly a cut-and-paste copy of the battle, but the way they're going, it's as if the universe wants the fight to be similar to the original ones… Am I making any differences then, even though I know what to do, are all the Grongi I face would do the things they did in the show, resulting in the same body count?
Hmm… a difficult thought to ponder on. However, you do plan to ally yourself with the other Pretty Cures, correct? I believe that we could change the outcome once you meet them.
Yeah, I know… speaking of outcome, how do I get out of here? Should I just hop on my bike, wave goodbye to the cops to bolt, or what?
"Uh, excuse me…"
A voice brought me back to reality, it was Captain Bright Noa… or whoever his name is. "Oh, something I can help you with, officer?"
I see a small smile forming, but it was mixed with guilt or something, "No, I would like to thank you, for helping us in a pinch… I understand that the higher-ups have given the order to cease any attack on you. That lady said that she's the Commissioner General's granddaughter who convinced to made the order, even though I still find that hard to believe, but again, I thank you for helping us."
The captain raised his right hand, and with a smile, introduced himself. "Captain Hikaru Noa, good to meet you, Kamen Rider Kuuga."
Oh… wow. Name being basically the Japanese version of Bright Noa aside, wow. Someone actually called me a Kamen Rider, and he sounds so sincere… I took his hand, and shake it firmly. "Well met, Captain."
…Fantastic, of all the times to remember it, why now?
"I… would like to apologize, Captain." Letting go of his hand, I continued, "I should've gotten here sooner. If I've just arrived a few minutes earlier…"
His hand is on my right shoulder, comforting me in a way, "Hey, it's quite alright. We all know that this job has occupational hazards… even though the hazards we're facing now are very unusual. But it's alright, you did your best. If you want to honor the fallen, never surrender to these Unknown Life—no, the Grongi I should say—and keep fighting to protect the people. Whatever the odds."
He may not be able to see it, but I get the feeling that he knows I'm smiling. "Thank you, Captain Bright. I guess I was more out of funk than I thought so…"
Hold on, did I just… Oh, hell no.
A burst of laughter echoed in the room, instead of Asuka, it was this cop, close to my age. I think his name was Kai… Hold on, why does he look like Kai Shiden?
"I told you that you looked like him! But you wouldn't believe me!" Kai said as he chuckled, earning a glare from Brig—I mean, Captain Hikaru—which serves only to make him laugh louder.
"For crying out loud…" Hikaru said, rubbing his forehead, "Ever since I joined the force and have Kai as a partner, he keeps pestering me that I looked like Bright Noa from the Gundam shows. Just because my eyes looked smaller than most doesn't mean I have his dot eyes! I mean, he's an anime character, and I'm a real human, we don't have eyes like his!"
…Hate to break it to ya, Captain, but to me you are a mirror image of Bright Noa. Of course, I didn't say that out loud. However, I did manage to apologize, "Forgive me, Hikaru-san… But when I first saw you, Bright Noa was the first thing that came to mind. I will not offend you by referring you as him again."
"Never mind, Rider." Hikaru shooks his head in disbelieve, "It's quite alright. Still, it confirms another thing I've been thinking; if you know what Gundam is, you must be familiar to every other pop cultural creation. Which means you're a human being, just like the rest of us." He turned around, it seems Kai turned tail as he slowly walks towards the younger man, "Now if you'd excuse me, I need to have a word with one of my subordinates…"
Yikes… if he's a mirror image of Bright Noa, then his sternness might be the same. I feel sorry for no-Kai Shiden there.
If you are finished, Linto, perhaps we should get going. Do we not have a plan once we are finished here?
Huh… Of course! After dealing with Mebio, I will go train with Akira, Yumiko, and Ryuuko so they can teach me on their respective combat styles so I'd be ready when I get Dragon, Pegasus, and Titan Forms later on!
I fast walked towards the Trychaser, still standing near the abandoned car, and pulled it away so I can hop onto it. Activating the ignition, I revved up the bike and went down towards a roadway, which seems to go counterclockwise. As I ride down, I saw the cops walking down a bit further, I slowed down, garnering their attention. I gave them all the thumbs-up, and as tired as they were, each of them gave one back. I continued on outside, until I see Asuka's black car.
"Go on ahead, Rasyid," she told me via the bike's radio, "would be suspicions if we go together. Wait for me at the outskirts near the freeway."
I complied, and await for her return as I detransformed. Man, this has been one helluva day… Now what should I do next?
Friday, 4th of February 2011, 15:30 PM
After doing the Friday Prayers on Midori City's mosque around noon, I went for a ride around the city for a while, until I decided to head back to park near the Hyuuga Bakery in the evening for an important meeting. A few minutes after waiting for my usual sandwich to be made by Missus Hyuuga, I see Saki, Mai, and the Kiryuu sisters, the blue long haired Kaoru, and the red haired Michiru. All in their uniforms, guess school's out for today, since they've the weekends to relax.
Apparently they're in their third semester now, with spring vacation in March 26… a week or two after Sendai. Ugh, dammit, not now. I'll worry about that later, Mai's waving at me.
"Rasyid-kun, you're here!
Heh, from san to kun, Mai? Alrighty then. "Hey there, Mai-chan. Saki, Michiru, Kaoru." I sat down as I bite down the sandwich. "So, how's school?" If I'm to hang out with high school girls, better act like the big brother and be the considerate one.
"Oh, you know, the usual; classes being hard as always, Saki having a hard time catching up, I have to help her out as always, but overall it's just your normal school day."
Saki pouted at the jab towards her, "Very funny Mai. You know how hard math is for me, and sensei's methods are soooo complex!"
As they argue for a bit, I turn my attention to the sisters. "So, what about you two? It seems unfortunate that we don't get to know each other as often as I did with these two, so…"
With a smile, the blue haired Kaoru answered, "Well, we still find it fascinating that human schools have so many subjects to teach. I'm not sure if I'd remember most of what we're taught once we reach adulthood… Speaking of which, it feels great, growing up I mean."
It was Michiru the red head's turn to answer. "Yes, I would never think that we ever grow up being… who we are." Yup, the two told me their stories, even though I kinda sorta remembered it, but they told me nonetheless. With Saki and Mai watching, of course. "But I look forward to what adulthood feels like."
With a smile, I told them, "Well, let me tell you that adult life is… messy. Messier than your teenage years, even. But the future hasn't been written in stones, so you can do what you want once you graduate. Still, if you need help, you can always ask your friends here. And if you want, count me in." giving them the thumbs-up, the sisters smiled at my enthusiasm.
Sighing, I gathered my thoughts, because I called the girls here for a reason. "Okay, let's get serious… You girls know why I called you here, right?"
That got their attention. At least, Mai's, since she's the perceptive one. "… You're going to leave on a journey, right? I asked Taki-san about it, she told me that if you're going to get stronger to fight the Grongi, you asked her three friends to teach you the necessary skills, right?"
I nodded, "Indeed. It might take a while, since I'll be training in their respective hometowns… Let's see; I'll be training for Dragon Form in a Clover Town, Pegasus Form in this… something-something Lumieres all-girl school somewhere near Tokyo, and Titan Form in a town called Garden of Rainbows. Too bad I don't know anything about their places… Nor where they are, I'm kinda bad with directions."
A bit of a white lie; I do know where I'm going. One is the hometown of the Fresh Precures, the other is the all-girl school attended by the Yes Five Cures, and the last one is the hometown of the Max Heart Cures. However, I genuinely have no idea what each of those places has in store for me. But if there's one truth, is that I suck at directions. Sure, I'll remember which road leads to where once I go through them enough times, but my attention span is… lacking.
Should've try to Google them yesterday, but I was… distracted.
Your habit of staying up late on the internet is making you tire more. I suggest you stop for a while and focus on your training, Linto.
I… I can't help it, they have so many interesting things for me to see…
"No way!" Saki cried out, bringing me back to reality, "Those places are where our friends are! You know, the other Precures?"
Blinking, I feign surprised and said, "Really? I didn't know that. So, which teams lives where again?"
I asked the four, even though I know the answer, but gotta keep up appearances, y'know? Besides, a bit more info about the places I'm going wouldn't hurt.
"Okay, then." I told them, "At least I know where the Max Heart Cures are, and who they are, fortunately. But can you tell me anything else about the other two teams? Also, if I may ask… are there any other new teams?"
Of course, the Hearthcatch Cures are "airing" right now, should have had the whole ensemble now, with Cures Sunshine and Moonlight helping Blossom and Marine… I do wonder what will happen when Dune did his thing where he made the whole planet a desert. Anyway, that's for later, right now I gotta listen to the girls.
After they finish telling me what they know about the Fresh and Yes5 Cures, the continued with the ones after the Fresh Cures, "Actually, we did meet two new Cures last year." Mai answered, putting her fingers on her chin "Cure Blossom and Cure Marine, they call themselves the Heartcatch Precures. I'm not sure if they're a two member only team, like us, but it seems nowadays more Cures have more than two for a team…"
"Just the two of you? What about Michiru and Kaoru, I thought they're part of your team?"
… Okay, that may seem like a sensitive subject, due to the sudden silence the four made, but I steeled myself. Even though Toei didn't have them appear a lot despite the Kiryuu sisters helping the Splash Star Duo in their final battle, but there's got to be a reason why they don't participate in battles anymore in-universe. I don't care if their answer might be different in their original universe or whatever answers Toei come up with… I just gotta know. However, the way I asked them might sound inconsiderate now that I think about it…
"I'm sorry, was that a touchy subject?"
"Oh, no, it's alright… It's just unexpected, is all." Saki ensured me.
Michiru scoots closer to the table, taking a deep breath, and answered my question, "To be honest, me and my sister wish for a normal life. Ever since our… creation, evil is all we know. Until the day we met Saki and Mai, we have no clue of what to do in life, other than evil deeds. Yes, you could say we are… team members, but neither of us are obliged by the ones who gave these two their Precure powers to fight evil."
Oh yeah, I remember that each team has their own bosses that gave them their powers… I wonder why they haven't contacted me yet. Whatever, I better continue listening to the two.
"Do not misunderstand," Kaoru told me, "Just because we do not want to fight anymore doesn't mean we can't, nor will we not help our dear friends when they are in trouble. If push comes to shove, as they say, we will do whatever we can to fight back."
"But you're able to access the power of the Precures, right? Saki and Mai told me that the two of you used the power of the Moon and Wind to fight this… Goyan you fought years ago. And wasn't there another Precure who wasn't a human to begin with, but was once one of the villains? Her name was Cure… Passion, wasn't it?" I looked at Mai for confirmation, which she answered with a nod. "I get the feeling that you could access those powers anytime you want, but why don't you two fight alongside Saki and Mai, like Passion did with the Fresh Cures?"
"Oh, Setsuna-san? Yes, we met her sometime ago, sharing our experiences when we were on… opposing sides of our respective friends," Kaoru answered solemnly… Now I feel bad, but I must keep going. "But her circumstances that resulted in her joining her team were… drastically different than ours, yet somehow they're also similar…"
"We do not know how to properly explain this, unfortunately," said Michiru, "but again, we simply wish to live normal lives. We have been introduced with the other Cures, and their company is most enjoyable. However… as my sister said, we are not obliged to defend the world every time a new evil appear."
"So… what, you're like auxiliary members? Which reminds me, there are two other Cures who don't have Cures in their name, right? I remember Shiny Luminous of Max Heart… and then there's Milky Rose, from the Precure Five teams, correct? Hypothetically speaking… what would you call yourselves? Personally, I'd call you Kiryuu Bright and Kiryuu Windy, but that's just me."
…Way to derail the subject, buddy. "Anyway, I'm just saying, is that I think the other Cures would benefit even more in the fight against evil if the two of you are along for the ride. I do understand the want for normal lives, even after I entered this world of yours… But if I just leave, the Grongi would run amok. I believe you Precures can handle them, but… I'm just worried about you all, you know?"
Sighing again because I keep jumping the subject, I told them sisters as I rub my forehead, "My point is, is that I'm not asking or forcing you to fight again. I just want you to know that it would be wonderful if the two of you were also there to help out. Honestly, the rest of the Cures get more members while Saki and Mai here are stuck by just themselves? Kinda unfair that you didn't join the fun, if you ask me."
After a few seconds of silence, I heard Saki giggling, "Oh, Rasyid you worrywart. It's fine that our team only has me and Mai, it just means that our team coordination is easier to manage than the others!"
"If you consider "I go low, you go high" a proper proof of our team coordination, then it is." Mai said cheekily, earning a glare from Saki, with that… crooked pout of hers. I think that's her thing.
I cannot help but laugh, bless these two for having the skill to cheer people up. Thankfully, the Kiryuu Sisters laughed along with, "Anyway, as I said, I understand your decision, and I won't force you to fight again. So, back to the topic at hand; here's my plan, I train under these ladies in each week of this month. For the weekends tomorrow, I'll be touring the city with them to familiarize myself with the town, in case the Grongi were to attack there. Then, from Monday to Friday, they'll tutor me on their ways of combat. Afterwards, sometime close to March… Well, I've yet to think of anything, so I may just go with the flow."
… Damn, go with the flow? I'm not sure if I should laugh at perhaps my only attempt for black humor or be horrified that I made a tsunami joke. I know it's been two years my time but… I'm not even sure if it will happen here.
Linto, did I not say that you should focus on the present instead of the future and the what-ifs? Worrying about them are pointless, and a waste of energy. Concentrate on the current matter at hand, and come what may, we shall deal with any future problems when we get there.
… Thanks, Riku. "So, any questions, girls?"
"So who are these ladies, exactly?"
… Dangit, Saki. "As I told you, they're all Asuka's friends. Each of them has the skills I needed to learn, and they're quite trustworthy."
"How old are they?"
Michiru, you too? "Well, since as of two thousand thirteen my time, I'm going to be twenty one in July… They're older than me, but a bit younger than Asuka. One of them is as old as I am, albeit a year older."
"What are their names?"
Really, Mai? "Okay… the first one to teach me is Hayakawa Akira, she'll help me get the skills to use Dragon Form, and all I know about what to expect is that I'll be training my footwork. Then there's Iruma Yumiko, apparently she's a tutor for the archery club in the Lumieres school, and I have to enter sometime afterschool for her to teach me. Finally, there's Ichijouji Ryuuko, she has her own dojo inherited by her father, and… I get the feeling that her training would be the toughest. But as a Kamen Rider, I should be able to handle them."
"Are any of them pretty?"
… Et tu, Kaoru? "Well… I guess they are pretty." As if I'm telling them that I see those three and Asuka as if they're drawn by hentai manga artists I favored. Shit, I managed to found the specific girls in the stories they made last night and they literally looked alike. Anyway, better continue to answer them—
"Are you going after Asuka or any of those three? Could you be after all four?"
"Well, I do find the thought of having four wives to be quite pleasing, since in Islam it's actually allowed, provided I'm rich enough to take care of them all. Unfortunately since I don't even have a job or my own home, I have to settle with either one of them or maybe I could convince them to be my harem, but such things are… are…
… So does this make the sixth time you made a fool out of yourself, Linto? I have lost count.
"FFFUUUUUUUUUUU—" slamming my forehead on the table, I groaned in shameful agony as the four girls laughed at me. I can't believe it, I did it AGAIN! Why does this keep happening to me?!
"Oh, man, your reactions are even worse than Nagisa's when we tease her!" cried out Saki as her arms hold her belly, laughing out loud as she did so, "And here I thought you've become more mature when we're away, guess you're still the dork Taki-neesan told us!"
… Goddammit, Asuka!
Something soft landed on my hair, then another one. Before I asked, the things on my head began to speak.
"Rasyid-niichan, are you okay-mupu?"
"They didn't hurt your feelings, did they-pupu?
"…No, Moop, Foop. I'm fine, they didn't do anything wrong…" I could say what the girls did, but they're too young to hear what I have to say to these four. "I just… keep making a fool out of myself as always."
"Rasyid-niichan," Moop said, since when they started calling me as Rashidoniichan? Heh, since my name in Japanese ends with an O, anybody calling me with the elder brother term have no choice but to always use Oniichan instead of Niichan, or any variations thereof. Anyway, better pay attention to the little tykes, "It's okay, they're just saying so because they like you-mupu."
"That's right-pupu!" declared Foop, "Ever since we met you they keep talking about you whenever they have the chance-pupu! I think they miss you so much when you left-pupu!"
…Revengeance… is mine.
Raising my head up, I could see that the girls began to pale a bit, and I know they know that they're in for it now, "Ladies… don't tell me you're jealous that I've been hanging out with them instead of you four? If you have just told me so, I would love to take you on a date! I may not have a lot of money on me, but surely I could keep you company if you only ask. I mean, four pretty girls like yourselves never having the pleasure of a date? That is a crime, I say!"
For my next trick, I locked my eyes to Mai's, and now I can see her blush as clear as day. "Mai-chan, you are my savior. Ever since I got here, you're the first friendly face that I saw, and you're the most active at taking care of me and I am sad to say that I don't know how to properly repay this debt… That is, until today." With a smirk, I continued as her blood kept flowing into her cheeks, "If you would like, maybe after my training is over, I'll take you to the movies. Or maybe we could go outdoors and gaze upon the heavenly stars together? I assure you, I'll have you experience the best date in your life."
Leaning back, I stop my teasing as Mai covers her flushing face. "That is, if you want to." Only to continue with the others, "Otherwise, I think these three are available. Saki-chan, what do you think? I could help you with softball training or help you in English. It would be just the two of us, all alone, with nobody disturbing us, so we can focus intently on our… studies. Would you like that?"
Saki was flabbergasted at my actions, "No? Then maybe you, Michiru-chan… Or Kaoru-chan. Hah, maybe I should date the two of you at once! I don't mind dating twin sisters as beautiful as you two."
Michiru's face is as red as her hair now, with Kaoru blushing as well, but adorably trying to maintain her composure. "If… if you think your teasing will work on me, that you are wrong!"
"Then why are you blushing so much? Don't tell me you secretly want me to be your boyfriend?"
Hah! So now she's lost for words. Man, I'm on a roll! How and why am I doing this? Heh, whatever, better keep at it and see what—
A pair of hands sat upon my shoulders. A right on my left, and vice versa. Whoever the owners are, they're men.
"Good evening, Rasyid." Said the owner of the hands at the same time.
"Oh, Kaz… Hyuuga-san… Good evening. Something I can help you with?"
… I got a bad feeling about this.
"Actually, there is, young man." Said Mister Hyuuga, "I have one question for you that I need answers; if I am not mistaken, were you… hitting on my daughter?"
Oh… shit.
"And even though I helped out getting you settled in this country, I can't believe that you're after my dear little sister all this time. I am shocked."
Oh… fuck.
"Uh…"
Some battles cannot be won, Linto. This is one of them.
Yer not helping, Riku!
"Oh well, I should have expected it," said the baker, "Saki-chan is growing up to be a fine young woman. I have expected that someday someone would have their eyes set on her. Never expected that someone would be you, Rasyid-kun."
"I feel the same way, Hyuuga-san." Kazuya added, "I adore my dear sister, and I'm proud that she's also becoming a fine young woman. I'm sure our parents would say the same. I never expected it as well…"
"Um…"
"You know what, I don't mind if it's you, Rasyid-kun." Said Hyuuga-san calmy—Wait, what?!
"As do I, you've proven yourself to be a good man, and a trustworthy one too." Kaz, what gives?!
"However…" this time, the two take their hands off me, and for some reason I am looking at the sky—Oh God!
The two are just… smiling. But my everything tells me that these are not that kind of comforting smiles. Most. Definitely. NOT.
"If you break their hearts, Rasyid-kun," Hyuuga-san told me, continued with Kaz finishing his sentences, as if they're one. "We'll break your bones. I believe that's a fair trade, don't you think so Hyuuga-san?"
With a nod, he replied, "I believe so, Kazuya-kun."
OsweetmercifulAllahinwhateverrealmYouliveinepleaseforgivethisfoolofastrangerforhehasnotanideaforwhathehas
donepleaseifYouletmelivethroughthisthestrangershallbemorecarefulofhisactionandwordsPLEASEIWANNALIVE!
The two slowly put me back in an upright position. I keep myself still, as the girls are too, trying to comprehend what just happened in a span of a few seconds.
"Anyway, Rasyid-kun, I would not mind that I have you for a son-in-law."
"I always wanted a brother… Guess you'll do just fine, Rasyid. Ah, but I don't believe he's ready for such commitment, is he?"
"True, guess we have to wait and see…" Hyuuga-san put a glass of fresh milk onto the table, "Here's one for you, on the house. Now, Kazuya-kun, what were we talking about again?"
I didn't try to listen to what they're talking about as they walk away… instead I slowly hold the glass of milk, despite my shaking hands. And sip the milk slowly, until I basically suck the whole liquid down my throat.
Finishing it, I put the glass down on the table. Only now I realize that Moop and Foop were gone; fast little hiders, aren't they?
After a few minutes of agonizing silence, I attempted to break the silence. Alas, the only that came out of my mouth was a two second burp.
…I heard someone snickering, only realizing that it was me all along. Then, Saki and Mai began to snicker alongside me, as the Kiryuu Sisters did too. At last, we all laughed like hyenas, laughing at the absurdity of the situation we just came out of.
I have no idea how long we all laughed, not even sure if the four mascots were laughing along either, but after we stopped laughing, we basically made our peace together. I asked the girls what time it is, surprised that it's 16:30 already. I haven't even packed yet!
Oh yeah, I just remembered that Asuka gave me a cellphone yesterday, one of those flip-phones from the olden days of mobile phones. At least the software is modern, not to mention it's somewhat bulky and sturdy enough to take some hit, despite its thinness. The fact that the outer casing is based on Faiz's cellphone helps. Heh, even the beeps sounds are similar to it. Standing By!
Anyway, we exchanged phone numbers and… emails as they call it here. I forgot the Japanese these days do online stuff mostly on their phones, but nothing beats a laptop or a computer. Now I've easier time to contact them, huzzah!
I stood up from the chair, and said my goodbyes… But, despite what happened, I'm feeling quite cheeky all of a sudden, "The next time I'm flirting with you, I'm definitely doing so with my back on a wall. No way I'm gonna get ambushed like that again. Those weren't even my best lines for you." I finish it off with a wink and made a finger gun at them, saying this sentence one word at a time as I "shoot" each of them, "See you later, baby."
Ignoring their outburst of protests, I ran towards my bike and waved goodbye at them, eat my shit eating grin, my darlings!
… Kept you waiting, huh?
Anyway, I lost my internet connection, and I've been working on this chapter ever since it's lost a few weeks ago. Not sure when it will come back by the time I post this chapter, but at least I have fewer distractions.
The Mighty Rider Slice comes from a moment in a stage show where Kuuga and the Timerangers teamed up. Kuuga cried out "Mighty Slice!" as he attacks the kaijin, and I thought that might be cool to add.
This situation brings me back to the days I've no internet connection; just me, my TV, and my PS2 games to keep me company. Hell, I still have it hooked up—on a new TV of course—and have been playing old PS2 games just for kicks ever since I lost the connection.
Playing Ryu ga Gotoku/Yakuza 1 & 2 was a nostalgic trip down memory lane. I may have finished them before, but replaying it from the beginning was an experience. Not to mention I'm doing the substories since I rarely pay attention to those things during the time I got them all those years ago.
And of course, Ace Combat 5. Good God, that game is fantastic! I do wish that they made HD versions of the PS2 AC games, but since my copies are still working, I'll settle for them. Man, how much I miss the Wardog/Razgriz Squadron after all this years… And the theme song, Blurry by Puddle of Mudd! I am loving it again! So much I'm reading AC5 fanfics here, mostly BlazexEdge/Kei Nagase ones. I would love to have someone reliable as Kei as my wingwoman.
Oh, ever heard of Another Century's Episode? If you head of Super Robot Wars, then ACE is the Real Robot equivalent of it, since the mechs are mostly from Real Robot series, like Gundam, Dragonar, L-Gaim, Nadesico, and some older series like SPT Lazyner, Brain Powerd, Dunbine, etc. No VOTOMS though since the game involves a lot of flying and the Scopedogs rarely flies. I've been playing ACE2 and waiting to finish that so I can play 3. I wish I could find translated scripts of this game so I can understand what the hell is going on; all I know is that I'm going through the plot of all the available characters in the game (except for Amuro's Char's Counterattack, that came in ACE3 and by God the finale is more epic with other mechas pushing Axis away form Earth. (Also hint on what's gonna happen in Rising's DX3 Finale)
Anyways, I have… news.
My uncle from my mother's side has passed away recently. Since we have little money, only my mom can go to his funeral. He was the eldest son of her family… Honestly, I still can't believe that he's gone. I know death come and go as it pleases and whenever it wants… but you just can't believe its suddenness, you know?
Don't worry, I'm fine. I'm mourning him my own way.
Next is that I have been thinking… I don't know when I won't have internet connection again, nor will I know how long I will have it once I get it back. I apologize to OathToOblivion for worrying him, but brother, This Stranger is alright.
However… this got me thinking. Here goes; if I'm gone for two years, assume that I'm dead.
Yes, you read that right. I always, ALWAYS try my best to inform any people who follow me online of what I'm doing (not much, guys gotta have his privacy) and I will always tell people whenever I'm going to be gone somewhere or whatever.
Again… if I don't make contact for two years, assume that I'm dead. Morbid thought, I know, maybe my uncle's death hits me this way, but I'm very serious about this for once.
… That's it for the bad news.
Anyway, Rising unto the Stars has 50 reviews! I should be celebrating… if not for the fact the 50th review is… just see it for yourself.
That, coming from someone who has been around for seven years, yet has made absolutely NOTHING at all in this site, not even a favorite or follow?
… Heh. I always knew I'll get haters and trolls someday, just waiting for them, is all. Now that one has appeared… Meh. I ain't even mad.
If you have seven years to do that instead of being productive, then Doom Marine 54, you need a better hobby. Because wasting your life like this is a shame. Not to mention it must be unhealthy.
Besides, the 49 reviews and 40 follows and faves I got before your review appeared said otherwise.
Speaking of reviews, MaesterDimentio! You mention something about this story having no Precure characters despite being a crossover with Precure being a problem for you? Hope the last bit makes up for the lack of Precure interaction, for the heroines, the supporting casts, and their mascots. Oh, wanna know why I wrote it that way? Three words: Because It's Funny.
Anyways, don't worry, the next chapters for the February Arc/Training Arc will have SI-Me interact with the Precure casts of the respective locales he visits… What I need to do next is to find episodes of Fresh Precure so I can get them right. Then the Yes5, then the Max Heart… And I need to marathon Heartcatch if I were to tell the Heartcatch Finale in SI-Me's POV.
That's right! Due to the lost of my internet, I won't know when this will happen again, so to keep your minds company, I will tell you a few bits of my plans after this chapter.
Five things for sure; SI-Me will visit the locales, interact with the place and characters, SI-Me will team up with the Cures, SI-Me will be involved in the Heartcatch finale (not telling what will happen though), SI-Me will enter the Sendai Earthquake Arc and come out with renewed vigor, and SI-Me will do something DRASTIC when All-Stars DX3 Arc comes out.
After DX3… I dunno what will happen to be honest. I know what to do, but putting them on paper is… very difficult.
Anyway, by the time I post this chapter, I'm going to catch up with a LOT of things, mostly on Tumblr and Youtube. Especially the final episode of Gaim and the first episodes for Drive. And EXTRA especially for RWBY. Which reminds me, better continue Dusts of Avarice. And Showa Riders Grand Glorious Gathering… and Project Super-1… Dangit all _
Oh, almost forgot! I DO have internet access via my blackberry… but I heard tales of horror regarding the mobile versions of some websites… The only ones that work best for me are the text based ones, like this website and TV Tropes. Alas, I dunno how to log in with the mobile version of FF, so I didn't do anything of the sort. At least I could download songs. Go listen to Shonan no Kaze's (aka Gaim no Kaze for you Gaim fans) song titled Born to be Wild… Fucking BADASS.
I could go on, but alas this website doesn't have the journal system from deviantArt or is it like Tumblr where you can easily post stuffs like this, so I must stop. However, that's because I am leaving you a snippet of what I had in mind for DX3. Basically a trailer, only words I come up with on the fly, and I dunno if what I've typed here will be final but here goes nothing.
So… thus began DX3.
That's a lot of… whatever they are.
Heh, more crowded than I thought… Wait, who's there?
Greetings, Kuuga.
Hold on, you?!
I have come with a message, Kuuga. A message from N-Daguva-Zeba.
What do you mean there's more than just Daguva in the N Group?
Linto, this does not bode well…
Dammit, a Grongi civil war? And Japan is caught right in the middle…
What is this… darkness I am sensing?
HENSHIN!
Showoff!
Just being myself, is all…
We finally meet… Kuuga.
You!
Yes… Me.
W… why do you have my face?
Your face? Kuuga, don't tell me…
Enough of this foolishness.
You're here too?!
Show him what you can do, Old One...
It… it can't be. How could I have forgotten about that?
Then… all this time, we have been…
How… how many lives have you taken?!
How many loafs of breads have you eaten in your lifetime?
DAGUVAAAAA!
LET'S DO THIS, KUUGA!
StrangerDenB4 Presents… The exciting conclusion to the first chapter of a saga.
I am… nothing but a monster. What hero, what ally of justice, your hands are stained it blood and it's all my fucking fault!
Rasyid, snap out of it already!
I can't, why should I?! I'm not worthy anymore!
Stand firm, Kamen Rider Kuuga! We Kamen Riders must keep on fighting, to protect I humanity's future! Fight to the bitter end!
It's… it's you. I can't believe that it's you.
Let it be known, that our Genealogy of Justice lives on within you, Kamen Rider Kuuga!
Rasyid, don't leave us…please, don't leave me!
Goodbye, my dear… Farewell, Pretty Cures.
To be continued… Shining Amongst the Stars.
Rise Up!
And be Amazed—
For the Ultimate Awakening!
STONEEEEEEEEER! SUUUUUUUUNSHIIIIIIIIIIIINE!
Coming soon when the idiot author gets his lazy ass off to work on it.
Hey!
You kept them waiting too long, and I haven't been paid!
Dangit, girl, you're ruining the trailer!
I don't care! This isn't even a proper trailer you lazy oaf!
Aaaaaaah shut up!
Whatever.