Rider Time Zi-O: Roze from Remnant
Chapter 49 – The Day It All Began 2009
As Geiz and Sougo fought, the area turned into a muted dull coloration as their fight began to slow down tremendously. Soon enough a book came into view as Woz waltzed into the scene, the entire area blurred and dulled as everything was fully in slow motion. Indeed, while he narrated he had all the time in the world.
"As it is written in this book, average high schooler Tokiwa Sougo embarks on a path which leads him to become the overlord of time, Oma Zi-O. He is confronted by Kakogawa Hiryu, also known as Another Zi-O. Alongside this adversary is Kagami Rose, Another Roze. Formerly with them was a newborn Greeed known as Muchiri, but Miss Rose's clever thinking and skills were enough to put to rest. While one adversary is defeated another takes its place as Myokoin Geiz has obtained the power of Geiz Revive, surpassing even Zi-O II."
Sougo and Geiz continued their fight as he narrated, their punches impacting against each other as Ruby soon came into view running out of the factory they were near.
"Now, with Zi-O and Geiz on the verge of their final battle, the time appears to be at hand for me to enter the fray and become a Kamen Rider," Woz narrated though he seemed to be getting a bit too far ahead like usual. He looked back, "Oh dear, I suppose this is no time to be reading… I will need Miss Rose's assistance to try and pacify Geiz however…"
Earth – Late February 2019
Geiz and Sougo both ended up punching each other backwards, the two readying their own finishers. Geiz loaded the Geiz Revive Ridewatch into his Zikan Jaclaw.
[ZIKAN JACK!]
[RIDER FINISH TIME!]
Sougo had responded by initiating his belt's finisher, rotating it as he leapt into the air. Pink and yellow katakana for 'Kick' encircled Geiz before flying out and entering Sougo's right sole.
[TWICE TIME BREAK!]
[GORETSU SUPER NOKO SETSUZAN!]
Geiz punched forward with his weapons saw, bright energy gathering as it clashed with Sougo's kick. Waves of pink and orange energy began rocketing off of each other before both Riders were thrown backwards. Geiz landed on his back as he lost grip of his weapon while Sougo ended up hitting the outside wall of the factory.
"It's not over yet, Zi-O…" Geiz growled out as he rolled over before picking himself up, grabbing his weapon as he began to rise.
Ruby immediately got between the two, holding her arms out as she faced Geiz, "That's enough!"
"Out of the way," Geiz called out. "I don't want to hurt you."
"I won't let you kill Sougo!" Ruby called out.
"R-Ruby…" Sougo gasped as he tried to pick himself up.
"Don't you dare think of continuing either you dolt," Weiss ran over to Sougo and helped him brace as he stood, "There's more important things to deal with than your stupid fight."
"Yes, please wait," Woz quickly emerged from an entrance of a warehouse as he got near Ruby. "My Overlord and you as well Geiz… the two of you settling your duel would do little more than please my alternate self."
In an instant Woz threw his scarf out, it wrapping around himself, Geiz and Ruby and vanishing as it warped the trio away from the area.
"Woz no, wait!" Sougo called out in a near panic before holding his stomach and falling to his knees, his transformation dismissing itself.
"My goodness," Weiss sighed as she helped Sougo down. "Just what's your issue?"
"It's… it's nothing…" Sougo shook his head, he was only praying that Ruby would be alright because he didn't want to tell Weiss he had a dream where Ruby had…
"Jeez, he did a number on you," Yang remarked as she and Blake quickly hurried over.
"Where did Geiz and Ruby go?" Blake asked.
"Woz took them away," Weiss explained.
"Crap," Yang immediately took off to try and see if Woz had taken the three of them anywhere nearby.
"Yang, wait!" Blake called out before following.
Geiz gasped out, having lost his transformation as he rolled onto a rooftop that was nearby the area they were fighting in. Ruby gave a yelp as she stumbled forward, losing her transformation as well while Woz caught her by the arm.
"Uh, thanks," Ruby said as she managed to regain her footing thanks to the chroniclers help.
"What do you think you're doing, Kuro-Woz?" Geiz questioned as he stood up.
"This is for your sake," Woz answered. "I'm hoping that Miss Rose being here will help you see reason."
Geiz rolled his eyes as he began to march forward, "Don't act like-"
"Haven't you realized?" Woz asked as he held up a finger before pointing towards Geiz and then at the ground.
Geiz and Ruby could only stare at the ground as blood dripped down rapidly, it coming from Geiz's nose. He wiped the flowing blood away, wondering what was going on.
"Hey, are you okay?" Ruby asked, a bit surprised by the sudden nosebleed.
"Indeed, your power as Geiz Revive is unparalleled," Woz continued to explain, "But it carries an equal risk."
"What risk…?" Geiz questioned.
"Oh no," Ruby stared in horror before narrowing her eyes, "I knew that there was something wrong with that form the minute Shiro-Woz spoke about it."
"The power of Goretsu and speed of Shippu…" Woz continued as he walked past Geiz. "They appear to be the result of your Watch compressing and expanding time itself. This as a result, is inflicting untold damage on your body. You are fighting by chipping away at your own life. Will you really go that far in pursuit of my Overlord's downfall?"
"Geiz… you can't keep on using it," Ruby said as she walked over to him. "What happened between then and now? Was it why you wouldn't answer my calls or texts?"
Geiz stared at the ground, "My only goal since coming to this time has been defeating Zi-O."
"What about stopping the Time Jackers?" Ruby asked. "Didn't you also say they were an immediate threat that needed to be taken care of?"
"You've also seemed to have developed a fondness for my Overlord," Woz mused, recalling all the prior conversations since everyone had come back from Remnant. "With those points in mind, why are you suddenly so intent on defeating him?"
"I saw something…" Geiz admitted. "Tsukuyomi was attacking Zi-O when he was just a kid…"
Ruby stepped back a bit in near shock, "But why? That doesn't make any sense!"
"I know what I saw!" Geiz snapped as he closed his eyes tightly before opening them again, being up close it could be seen that his eyes were redder than usual, "She was going to live with that blood on her hands, all because I couldn't make up my mind. And then, she…"
"Geiz, what happened?" Ruby asked, noticing his mannerisms and his trailing off.
"My mission is to stop Zi-O, I could never feel any fondness for him," Geiz called out more firmly with a glare, prepping his transformation. "If you get in my way I will fight you."
"Geiz…" Ruby backed up as she readied her transformation as well.
"Henshin!"
[RIDER TIME! RE-VI-I-VE GORETSU~! GORETSU!]
[SILVER TIME! KAMEN RIDER~! (RIDER~!) SILVER! (SILVER!) SILVER~! ROZE!]
Ruby immediately drew out Silver Crescent, firing enhanced blasts of energy towards Geiz. She could only lower her weapon in surprise once she saw them bounce off.
"You can't pierce this armor Ruby," Geiz spoke coldly.
Ruby had an idea though, she knew that both her rifles alone couldn't… but if she combined them like back in Remnant…
"Have you forgotten?" Woz questioned. "You have yet to ever best me, Geiz. Even with your defense, Ms. Rose and I can easily defeat you."
"That's all in the past now," Geiz answered as he raised his Zikan Jaclaw in its saw formation.
"Miss Rose back up," Woz warned before tossing his book upwards.
"Wait, wha-whoa!" Ruby quickly backpedalled as she watched Woz's book enlarge itself as it opened up.
The open book soon landed, Geiz between the pages before it closed on him, the small watch-like clasp closing up to keep the book shut. Before Woz could continue however it was immediately cut through, Geiz spinning out as it was torn apart.
Woz launched out his scarf to warp behind Geiz before launching out his scarf again, fabric detaching from it as he tried to detain Geiz within the fabric tornado.
[SPEED TIME! REVI-REVI-REVI! REVI-REVI-REVI! REVI-I-VE SHI-PPU! SHIPPU!]
In an instant Geiz immediately cut through it with his Jaclaw in its claw formation, the fabric trap being torn apart in an instant.
"Remarkable, I had no idea…!" Woz quickly used his scarf to warp himself away.
"H-Hey did you just ditch me?!" Ruby questioned before yelping when she saw Geiz turn towards her. She quickly raised her rifle in defense.
"You're no threat to me," Geiz answered before speeding off after Woz.
"Way too fast!" Ruby hissed out as she leapt forward, using Petal Burst to follow after.
Woz had managed to reach the edge of the factory area that held a multitude of concrete blocks. He began to walk at a steady pace as he figured that Geiz would try and fight Ruby while he could make a more relaxed exit.
"Think you can get away?"
Woz quickly turned in horror as he saw Geiz standing nearby on a stack of concrete.
"I'm even faster than Zi-O II's precognition and can easily outpace Petal Burst," Geiz jumped down while quickly clawing at and striking Woz several times, "You could never outrun me!"
Woz gasped out as he was cut into. Surprisingly he seemed to bleed pages of all things as various written pages flew out from his body as he was struck. He could only reel back as he slammed into the ground, holding his chest as he tried to recover.
Geiz turned to leave only to quickly turn, swiping out with his claw as he unleashed an energy slash against several energy blasts of light.
Ruby quickly landed on a stack of concrete blocks as she took aim at Geiz, "Geiz just calm down and let's talk this out!"
"You can't convince me Ruby," Geiz called out as he got in a fighting stance.
"Then you leave me no choice," Ruby quickly shot at the ground in front of Geiz to distract him. She then summoned Crescent Rose, this was a risky move but she needed to try. As she began to combine them together the smoke cleared from her attack and she gave a light gasp when she saw Geiz was no longer there. "Where did he-ngh!"
A sharp pain had hit the back of her neck as she soon began to lose consciousness, her transformation dismissing itself as a result.
Geiz was right behind Ruby, his free hand outstretched as he had chopped her in the back of the neck with it. He discarded his weapon and used his speed to grab Ruby and carry her in his arms, landing on the ground and setting her down.
"Hopefully you'll realize you need to stay out of this," Geiz sighed as he stood up straight before walking off, dismissing his transformation.
"My damnable alternate self has given rise to something truly horrid… something must be done," Woz gasped out as he rolled onto his side, staring at the fallen Ruby. He quickly managed to stand before walking off.
Ruby gave a wince as the hit had only managed to knock her out briefly. She gently reached for her neck as she began to sit up. She gave a sigh as she stared at the ground before glancing back and forth. Woz was gone, so was Geiz, she was all alone. She had managed to beat Muchiri but for what? Now Geiz had an insanely busted form that was killing him slowly, and the battle went from two sides to three sides. There was so much she wanted to do now that she had peace, now that she could just…
"Ruby!"
Her thoughts would have to wait as she looked over, seeing Blake and Yang run over.
"Oh," Ruby gave a smile, "Hey guys."
"Come on seriously?" Yang gave a bored look as she hurried over and knelt down, "You look like you just beat to Remnant and back."
"It wasn't too bad," Ruby said. "He just got me off guard with a chop to the neck."
"Are you going to be alright?" Blake asked, though she was also hoping that Ruby might finally say something about anything bothering her.
Ruby gave a nod, "Don't worry about me… there's something I need you two to do, I want you guys to watch over Geiz. Geiz Revive is damaging him just as much as he dishes out the damage."
Blake and Yang's eyes widened when they heard this, the two looking at each other and nodding before looking back to Ruby.
"We'll see what we can do," Blake gave a nod.
"Are you sure you want us to though?" Yang asked. "He is…"
"I know he's trying to fight Sougo," Ruby admitted as she managed to shakily stand, she hunched over as she put her hands on her legs. "But that power isn't doing him any favors and I at least hope you all will make sure he won't overdo it."
"We'll try and talk some sense into him," Blake replied. "He'll probably only trust us given our well… stances we've had with him prior."
"Good luck," Ruby gave a soft smile before taking off back towards where she assumed Sougo and Weiss are.
Geiz meanwhile was currently making his way to the exit of the construction area. But of course he wasn't alone.
Shiro-Woz smiled, "My Savior!"
"I have no intention of being your savior," Geiz answered coldly as he continued to walk, "Be quiet and watch. I'll use this power to beat Zi-O."
As Geiz walked away Shiro-Woz could only counter his words, "Well, I am afraid you are my savior nonetheless!" He then turned and began to speak to himself, "Incidentally, that salvation may only apply to a certain few…" He trailed as he glanced over, the familiar robes and wear of Kagen and Jogen watching from a corner out of sight of anyone other than Shiro-Woz.
"Your future is starting to come to fruition…" Kagen remarked.
Jogen gave a chuckle, "So let's see how this all ends."
The two then looked upwards, Regulus shining brighter and brighter to where its presence could easily be seen in the daytime as a result.
It had taken a bit for Ruby to meet back up with Sougo and Weiss. The trio had decided the best course of action was to recover at 9-5-DO since it was one of their safe spots. Sougo paused however when he saw there was a sign that read 'Rooms Available – Owner' right next to the door.
Ruby and Weiss noticed Sougo's pause but the two said nothing as they entered the workshop. Weiss couldn't help but be surprised by the two gigantic pieces of machinery that Junichiro was currently working on.
"I'm home," Sougo called out.
"Oh, welcome home!" Junichiro called out as he was currently working on a miniature fridge and a washing machine. He glanced as he saw Ruby and Weiss, smiling, "Ruby, Weiss, welcome, welcome!"
"Hey there Mr. Junichiro," Ruby gave a meek wave.
"Sorry to visit so soon again," Weiss gave a bow.
"Its fine it's fine," Junichiro smiled as he stood up.
"Uncle… the sign…" Sougo started.
"Oh, that?" Junichiro asked, "Y'know, now that the rooms upstairs are empty, I figured I'd try and find some new tenants.
"So soon though…?" Sougo asked.
"I mean, Tsukuyomi and Geiz aren't coming back, right? And as much as I'd love to ask Ruby I'm sure she doesn't want to leave her sister. Plus she visits so often anyway," Junichiro said before sighing and turning away towards the back of the shop, "Those other two though I sure do miss! It's just not as much fun cooking for two!" He looked back at his nephew, "I'm sure you miss the excitement!"
"Nah, I'm fine," Sougo shook his head as he went to take off his shoes.
Junichiro could only stare, "Really?"
"I mean, I've been alone all these years, right?" Sougo asked as he went to head upstairs, "Plus I've still got Ruby and Weiss to hang out with."
Junichiro could only give a concerned stare alongside Ruby and Weiss as they saw Sougo walk up the steps.
Ruby gave a sigh as she went to sit down at the table near the entrance. They weren't getting anywhere like this, and morale was starting to drop for everyone.
Weiss looked over at Ruby and walked over, "Is everything alright?"
"I don't know," Ruby admitted as she rested her forehead on her hand. "Every time it feels like we're getting somewhere, new issues pop up and I'm just… I just wonder how we're even going to get through this."
Junichiro seemed to notice Ruby's mood and looked over at Weiss, "Say Weiss, could you warm up some milk for us?"
Weiss looked over before noticing the request and glancing back towards her partner, giving a smile and a nod before heading over to the kitchen.
"Ruby…" Junichiro said as he sat down near Ruby and gave a soft smile, "I know we're not exactly related by blood. But I'd like to consider you a part of this family."
Ruby gave a look of surprise when she heard this, "R-Really?"
"Really," Junichiro gave a smile and a nod, "And as family I want to help you out whenever it might seem like you need help. If you want to talk about anything, please, just let me know."
Ruby thought about it for a bit, it would be a bit rude to say no given he seemed to read her mood instantly. And he did seem to have experience but…
"I just…" Ruby finally spoke up, "I feel like this is something I need to handle on my own. I'm pretty much the leader, and well, everyone's counting on me to figure things out. It's not about me, it's about everyone else."
Junichiro gave a small frown at this, "So you feel as though you have to push your own issues and feelings down."
"I mean that's what a leader does right?" Ruby asked, "Put everything and everyone else first before themselves?"
"Right, well I'm not sure what sort of leadership stuff you're talking about," Junichiro admitted, as he still wasn't aware of what was going on behind his back. "But you've got a wonderful sister and even more wonderful friends. Leader or not I don't think that it will hurt if you reach out to them so that they can help ease your burden."
"…" Ruby stayed silent as she twiddled her fingers, wondering if there was a merit to just letting it out, "But, wouldn't that just make me seem weak? Like a failure?"
"Not at all," Junichiro shook his head with a smile as he put a hand on Ruby's to grab her attention. "Being open with your feelings to those close to you, it's an important trait for a leader to have. I'm not going to have you tell me all about it, but I'm sure there are plenty of people who would still see you as strong even if you let it all out."
"If there's something bothering you then you should let us know. We're a team right?"
"I…" Ruby paused and stared at Junichiro for a bit as the realization hit her.
"Sometimes there are things we want to keep to ourselves," Junichiro continued with a nod. "But that's also pretty harmful to just keep everything inside all the time. It's always good to just let it out, especially if they're issues bothering us. And especially to those you trust and those who trust you back. It doesn't have to be everything, even just a little bit helps."
"I've been really stupid as of late…" Ruby gave a soft smile as her eyes watered before wiping them, giving a soft chuckle before taking a deep breath. "I think I know what to do now."
"I'm glad to be of some help," Junichiro smiled.
"Well if you're starting to figure stuff out I think I know what might help you relax a bit more," Weiss said as she came with the tray from the kitchen, on it being three mugs of warmed milk as she set them down on the table.
"Ooh," Ruby immediately grabbed a mug before sipping it a bit, giving a satisfactory sigh. "That hits the spot…"
"Actually I was wondering," Junichiro spoke up as he looked over at the two, "If you two could give me some advice…"
Weiss stared in slight surprise, "Advice?"
"What kind of advice?" Ruby asked.
Both Uhr and Ora were pondering to themselves, overlooking the city as they had just gotten news of Geiz's new transformation from Finis. The elder Time Jacker had left them to their own devices before the two received a new visitor.
"Well, look who decided to drop by…" Ora turned towards the lower level of the rooftop they were on.
On the lower level Woz entered through a doorway but kept his distance.
"Woz?" Uhr asked.
"What do you want?" Ora asked before giving a glare. "You've got some nerve, showing your face around us."
"My apologies for any difficulties I may have caused," Woz gave a brief bow.
"Hearing you actually apologize is totally unnerving…" Ora admitted with a shiver.
"As it now stands, Geiz will defeat my Overlord… resulting in exactly the outcome my alternate self desires," Woz continued despite the remark. "But it goes beyond that… There is some mystery involving Hiryu Kakogawa's past with my Overlord… This is more than I can manage on my own. I ask for your cooperation."
"Are you out of your mind?" Ora asked while Uhr stayed silent and turned away. She leaned on the railing that separated both levels of the roof, "In the end, you're just going to use us. It couldn't be more obvious. Get lost."
Woz relented and began to head down from where he had entered, Ora had chosen to walk off and warp away while Uhr glanced back at where Woz used to be.
"Wait a second."
Woz stopped his descent down the building as he tilted his head. There was an identical set of stairs across from him. It was Uhr who soon came into view.
"I'm in," Uhr kept his hands in his pockets. "You've got my help. I want to know, too. What is going on with our past and present? And what will be waiting in the future…"
Woz gave a satisfactory smirk as he turned to fully face Uhr, "I've got an idea in that case."
"And you're sure it will work?" Uhr asked.
"It's a rather risky gamble." Woz admitted. "However… I see no other alternative."
Geiz was currently making his way through the more empty areas of the city, planning on walking off his most recent usage of his transformation. He was also currently trying to gather his thoughts as he tried to figure out the best way to draw out Sougo.
"Hold it," Hiryu stepped in Geiz's path while giving a glare.
"Hiryu Kakogawa, I have no business with you," Geiz answered.
"Maybe not, but I've got some with you," Hiryu called out in annoyance as he drew out his Anotherwatch, "Because I'm going to be the one to kill Sougo Tokiwa."
[ZI-O!]
Hiryu gave a grunt as he kept himself unarmed this time when transforming into Another Zi-O.
Geiz readied his transformation before initiating it as he walked forward, "Henshin!"
[RIDER TIME! REVI-REVI-REVI! REVI-REVI-REVI! REVI-I-VE SHI-PPU! SHIPPU!]
Geiz leapt forward, using his Jaclaw to slash forward and force Hiryu on the defensive. He sped forward and became a blue blur that struck at Hiryu multiple times.
Hiryu kept his arms up as he kept on the defensive, just barely managing to keep up with Geiz's speed. He then saw Geiz rushing forward to ram him from the side, bringing out his weapon in its naginata formation he stabbed against Geiz just as he got hit. Despite landing a hit, Hiryu yelled out as he was flung back from the force of the attack that had hit him, losing his transformation due to the heavy damage.
Geiz tilted his head when he heard a familiar ringing, noticing a red shape moving through the window's around him.
[ROZE!]
Kagami jumped out of a nearby window with her bident, jabbing forward to try and catch Geiz off guard. To her surprise he had only stepped backwards by a few steps as he initiated his armor change.
[POWERED TIME! RE-VI-I-VE GORETSU~! GORETSU!]
Her bident clanged against the orange armor of Goretsu, she was ready to pull back when it was batted away before getting grabbed. Kagami gave a gasp as she was reeled in, the Jaclaw's orange tipped saw slamming and digging into her chest as sparks flew.
Geiz pushed further and could only watch as Kagami yelled out, the Another Rider getting slammed into a nearby window and shattering it.
"I was right…" Kagami coughed out, "You really are a monster…"
"Given you chose to run I'm surprised you decided to confront me now," Geiz remarked.
"Well, let's just say Ruby knows what I let her know, but I know everything she knows," Kagami managed to pick herself up as her transformation dismissed itself.
"What does that even…?" Geiz's transformation faded as he fell on a knee, blood dripping out of his ear as a result of using Revive. He gently touched his ear only to see his fingers caked in blood. He managed to stagger back onto both his feet, "I'm gonna be the one to beat Zi-O. Both of you need to back off."
Both Another Riders could only watch as Geiz turned and walked way.
"Well if we get our asses kicked enough times maybe he'll kick the bucket himself," Kagami remarked with a light cough before walking over to Hiryu. She held out her hand, "Come on…"
Hiryu however pounded his fist against the ground, "Why?!"
"Looks like you're still short on power," Uhr remarked as he walked over to the two before shaking his head when he saw Kagami, "It's still odd seeing you here."
"Oh trust me this is awkward for both of us kid," Kagami admitted.
Hiryu quickly backed away, "Who the hell are you?"
"Relax," Kagami said as she went over to help Hiryu up. "He's on our side."
"I'm an ally of Swartz's," Uhr gave a nod. "While I can get why Finis chose Another Roze here, I have no idea why Swartz gave the power of Another Zi-O to you."
"I… I just want to beat Sougo Tokiwa!" Hiryu called out. "I want to destroy him in whatever way I can!"
"But at this rate you won't be able to beat Zi-O II, Silver Roze, or Geiz Revive," Uhr remarked.
"So then what do I do?!" Hiryu asked in an almost pleading manner. "Please tell me!"
"There's another Rider from the future, besides Geiz," Uhr explained as he drew out a Blank Ridewatch. "You need to take his power."
Hiryu took the Blank Ridewatch and stared at it before looking at Uhr, "All I have to do is that?"
"But you'll need some help," Uhr replied before smirking. "Luckily you're sitting on quite the amount of Another Rider's. Just find some poor sap to use it on." He then held out his hand, "Of course that might take a bit too long. Keep a few of them, I'll figure out how to make you an army faster."
Hiryu could only grin as he handed over most of his Anotherwatches, only keeping Another Ghost, Gaim, and OOO. He then took off, planning on finding suitable punching bags to become Another Riders.
Kagami however stayed where she was before looking at Uhr, "Just what are you planning?"
"Like this gets in the way of your schemes," Uhr scoffed as he went to skip off. "Mirror half or not, you're only using us to seek your own ending, right?"
Kagami could only chuckle as she turned away, "I suppose you are right, kid."
Sougo was in his room when he heard his phone vibrate, so he checked it to see that Geiz had sent him a text message.
'It's time to settle this. I'll be waiting at Saturn Parking.'
Realizing that it was time to end this he quickly hurried down while making sure he had his helmet. He was also hoping that he'd make it past his uncle and friends before they could stop him.
Junichiro was currently finishing his drink alongside Ruby and Weiss, the three having been talking about Sougo and the best way to go about things as they were.
"Sougo, where are you going?" Junichiro asked.
"Uh, something just came up…" Sougo trailed, he had wanted to just bolt out but knew that he'd just worry his uncle more.
"Oh, okay then." Junichiro said as he wasn't sure if he should bring this up now or later.
"Now's your chance," Ruby whispered, figuring that what Junichiro wanted to say would help them out in the long run.
Sougo though noticed something was off, and despite wanting to make sure he and Geiz settled things alone, he couldn't just leave his uncle. "What's wrong?"
"Well…" Junichiro slowly stood up. "I'm not sure if I should say this, but… I'm going to… it's just well, ever since you came to live here, there's one thing I regret…"
Sougo tilted his head a bit, "Regret? What is it?"
"Well, I've never really been able to reprimand you, have I…?" Junichiro asked. It was an odd question but something bugging him as of late since Ruby had first moved out. He rested his arm on a nearby display case, "I know I should have, I kick myself for being so complacent…" He chided himself before taking a deep breath and looking at his nephew. "To be honest, I've never really known what I was supposed to do… You lost your parents, you were all alone… How was I supposed to treat you? How close should I really get?"
"I see…" Sougo trailed as he glanced to the side.
"But y'know now that those two are gone… I think this might be a chance for me to get over it…" Junichiro said as he summoned to courage to speak further before he took a step forward, "So I'm gonna reprimand you."
Sougo could only stare at his uncle while Ruby and Weiss watched from where they were sitting, the two slowly standing up.
"You're lonely, right? Now that Geiz and Tsukuyomi are gone. Even with Ruby close by with her and her friends visiting you still feel lonely right?" Junichiro asked but didn't wait for a response as his voice grew more firm in tone, "If you're lonely, don't just say "its fine" when it isn't true! Just come out and say it!"
"Uncle…" Sougo trailed.
"If you can't admit when you're feeling bad… You'll end up as a leader who has no empathy for his people!" Junichiro called out.
Sougo took a breath as he gave a smile, "Thank you, we're heading out."
"Thanks for the milk and advice," Ruby gave a bow before hurrying out with Sougo.
Junichiro meanwhile breathed in deeply before letting it all out as he realized what he had managed to do. He was surprised when he felt a hand pat his back a few times. He turned to see that Weiss had walked over.
"I know you aren't a replacement for his parents," Weiss mentioned but gave a fond smile before slowly walking for the exit. "But I think you've been doing a wonderful job."
Outside, Sougo had brought out his Ridestriker and went to get on but paused when he saw Ruby and Weiss nearby, "Geiz wants to settle things…" He trailed. "So I want to keep that promise."
"Please don't do this…" Ruby pleaded.
"Ruby, we have to accept Geiz's judgment…" Sougo replied. "If he believes that I need to be taken out then I'll accept that. But I won't go down without a fight."
"Geiz isn't thinking clearly," Ruby pointed out before shaking her head, "Listen I just…"
Sougo gave a smile, "Please just let me do this. I'm trying to do what I think is right."
"If you insist on fighting then at least let us go with you," Weiss insisted. "All of us should at least be together, whether it's working or cheering you on."
"I…" Sougo trailed before figuring he could just ask them to not interfere, "Fine."
"Together…" Ruby trailed before realizing what she had to do before Sougo and Geiz met. "Weiss go with Sougo, I need to take care of something and then I need to find Blake and Yang."
"Are you sure?" Weiss asked.
"I need you to make sure Sougo makes it to Geiz in one piece," Ruby answered as she took out the Taka Watchroid and tossing it into the air. "Kagami and Hiryu are both out there. We need to be on guard."
"Fine, just stay safe alright?" Weiss asked.
"You too," Ruby nodded before running off after the Taka Watchroid.
"Let's get going," Sougo said as he mounted his motorcycle, waiting for Weiss to get on before taking off.
Geiz meanwhile was making his way through the city, his destination in mind after the text. He didn't need any other interruptions, so he made sure to try and take the most discreet and empty routes he possibly could to get to Saturn Parking.
"Tsukuyomi, I'm going to beat Zi-O," Geiz told himself, though this was about the fifteenth time he had repeated this phrase. His doubts were starting to return as he wondered if he didn't have the full picture. So he kept repeating that mantra over and over again to try and keep him on the path he was going.
He was unaware another individual was watching him as he walked off into the distance.
It was Swartz who gave a curious look, "That day was the first time I ever encountered Tsukuyomi… April 24th, 2009."
Earth – April 24th 2009
SUNSUN TOURS was what the sign had read, the destination being Nanohana Lake for a strawberry gathering tour. A white bus was currently being boarded, various families heading over to board it.
A young Sougo was currently hurrying over to a bus that was parked, excitement building in him as he managed to pull his dad and mom along, Sotaro and Namie Tokiwa. None of the families seemed to question what seemed like a young bus attendant that was making sure everyone made it inside without trouble and at a steady pace. Even those that did questioned were cut off by the driver who said that the attendant was currently training.
No one also seemed to notice the Zi-O Unit Time Mazine flying nearby and landing, Tsukuyomi making her way from the Time Mazine over to the bus. She was surprised when there didn't seem to be any issue of her entering. She was a bit suspicious at the attendant, especially when he lowered his head to allow his cap to cover his face. But she decided not to waste anyone else's time and went to take one of the few empty seats.
The bus attendant let out a silent sigh as he boarded the train, keeping his face from facing the seats as he scooted over to the driver. He raised his head revealing that he was Oscar the entire time, looking over to his partner, Tsukasa who was the driver.
"You didn't tell me she'd be here," Oscar whispered.
"Looks like you've got your ticket home," Tsukasa muttered as he ignored Oscar's comment. He looked over, "But that's everyone right?"
"Yeah," Oscar muttered as he made sure he was holding onto the support rails in the front.
"Alright, we're pulling out…" Tsukasa said as he started the bus up before beginning the designated trip.
Minutes upon minutes passed as the bus trip went as planned. Tsukuyomi was still unaware of Oscar's presence.
"Something happens on this bus…" Tsukuyomi muttered, "…But what?"
All she could see were families and children all excited to go and pick some strawberries. There wasn't a singular suspicious person aside from the driver's attendant to her. Not knowing it was Oscar she was suspicious about his young age, and why someone so young would be helping on the trip. She had caught murmurings of training but that still didn't add up.
Oscar was tapping his fingers a bit before his eyes widened, he saw a man with a white shirt, dress in black pants and shoes alongside a black coat and wide brimmed hat. The man began to walk in the path of the bus without a care in the world.
"Tsukasa…" Oscar trailed.
"On it," Tsukasa said as he began honking, but when the man didn't move from the spot, Tsukasa had quickly slammed his foot on the brakes.
The bus despite braking was still going to hit the man who kept where he was, but the familiar green tint of the Time Jackers time stop washed over the bus and halted its movement.
"I applaud you all for accepting my invitation," The man said as he lifted his head up, revealing himself to be Swartz. He soon forced the doors open before removing the time stop, the bus jerking forward as he made his way past Oscar to face the families sitting down.
Oscar could only keep as far away as he could from Swartz while reaching towards his pocket, his hand was grabbed however by Tsukasa who shook his head.
"You, all potential kings…" Swartz spoke as he walked down the aisle, passing Tsukuyomi.
"Swartz? But, why…?" Tsukuyomi was now seriously confused and also it was starting to dawn on her that this was bigger than she first thought.
"The ruler of time, traveling beyond time and space to reign over past and future…" Swartz continued to narrate as he walked further. "Among those of you born in 2000, some possess the potential to rise up." He suddenly turned and held out a hand, a purple wave pulsing through the bus.
In an instant the wheels reacted as the bus began to move forward on its own, skidding back and forth as it seemingly began to lose control.
"Uh… Tsukasa…" Oscar muttered.
Tsukasa didn't react for a second before suddenly realizing that they were moving without his input. He quickly began to try and work on regaining control of the bus, but to no avail.
"Not good," Tsukasa admitted.
"Isn't there an emergency stop?" Oscar questioned.
"As you can see…" Tsukasa gave a grunt as he tried to work on stopping the bus, "This thing is out of my control."
"Thus you will undergo this life and death trial," Swartz declared as he sat in the very back seat that was vacant.
Sougo's father quickly got up to confront the man, "Who are you?!"
Another father had gotten up as well, "What do you want?!"
"I won't accept any objections!" Swartz called out before unleashing a purple wave, this time using his Time Jacker powers to freeze all the parents onboard. This also forced both father's back as they fell to the ground but were paused mid-fall.
"What did you do to them?!" The young Sougo called out amongst all the children calling out to their mom's and dad's. He gave a yell as he charged for Swartz only to get grabbed by the older man.
Tsukuyomi saw this and her protective instincts kicked in, she glared at Swartz, "Sougo!"
"W-Wait hold up," Oscar stammered as he turned towards where Tsukuyomi was.
Tsukuyomi aimed her Faizphone X before shooting at Swartz.
Swartz quickly removed his hat with his free hand and batted the blast away, it hitting the seat near Hiryu causing the young boy to pass out.
"What are you trying to do in this time?!" Tsukuyomi called out as she walked forward. She was tempted to use her own abilities to stop the Time Jacker leader, but realized that she'd be outing herself. So she could only rely on her Faizphone X to get her through this fight.
"An unwanted visitor from another time, are you?" Swartz asked, seemingly not recognizing Tsukuyomi in the slightest. He was amused admittedly but he had a job to get done, "But I will not let you interfere!"
Tsukuyomi gasped out as she stumbled from a pulse of energy that Swartz had unleashed. She fell back only to get caught by Oscar who had rushed forward. She gave a wince before seeing who had caught her, "O-Oscar?!"
Oscar gave a sheepish grin, "Hey there."
Swartz meanwhile had immediately brought out a purple ball of energy, dragging himself and Sougo inside before it sucked in Hiryu alongside the other children on the bus. The purple ball launched backwards, slamming into the back of the bus and exiting it, slipping out of sight before it flew to the airspace above before entering a time gateway.
The resulting exit from Swartz had caused the back of the bus to catch on fire as it started to spread further and further towards the gas tank.
"Oscar what are you doing here?!" Tsukuyomi questioned as she was helped up.
"Uh, no time to explain," Oscar grabbed Tsukuyomi's wrist and dragged her to the front, "We need to get out of here!"
"I couldn't have said it better myself," Tsukasa agreed as he tried to keep control of the bus, forming an Aurora Curtain that slid past and engulfed himself, Oscar and Tsukuyomi just as the bus exploded. The explosion just barely reached them as they vanished.
Earth – Unknown Timeframe
The young Sougo gave a wince as he and the other kids began to wake up, the only one not waking up being Hiryu. While the others had briefly passed out due to being taken, Hiryu had been knocked out completely due to the attack nearly hitting him.
"Mom, Dad, where are you?!" Sougo looked around with the other kids, all of them shouting for their parents as they were in an area with a lot of fallen debris and damage. Something caught the kids eye however as he rushed over to the railing.
Sougo and the other kids could only stare in surprise and shock as they watched gigantic silver machines destroy countless buildings around them.
Tsukuyomi had managed to get her bearings after Tsukasa had transported them but wasted no time in trying to find her way around. When she saw Sougo she had tried getting to him only for debris to block her path. That was until she noticed the machines hovering above and destroying everything.
"Dai-Mazine's…" Tsukuyomi trailed.
"Just what's going on?" Oscar questioned as he looked around, "Where did you take us?"
"Where Swartz took the kids," Tsukasa said as if it were fact. "It's time we uncover a few mysteries."
Earth – Late-February 2019
Shiro-Woz was walking along at a steady pace. He had a smirk on his face as all he had to do was stay patient and wait for Geiz to defeat Sougo. He was so focused on this final battle that he wasn't aware of HIryu running around, transforming two unassuming bystanders into Another Riders.
Well that was until both Another Ghost and Another Gaim suddenly jumped out from behind at him. He had noticed two presences sneaking up on him and quickly managed to slide between the two to avoid their attacks.
"What kind of chicanery is this?" Shiro-Woz questioned as he readied his transformation.
[WOZ! ACTION!]
Shiro-Woz closed up his Driver to initiate the transformation, the standard screen appearing behind him as his digital katakana for 'rider' shout out.
Both Another Gaim and Another Ghost had attempted to rush forward only to get struck by the lettering and sent backwards.
"Henshin!" Shiro-Woz called out.
[TOUEI! FUTURE TIME! SUGOI! JIDAI! MIRAI! KAMEN RIDER WOZ! WOZ!]
Bringing out his Zikan Despear in its spear formation he charged towards his targets once his transformation completed itself. Moving close he slashed to stop a swing from Another Gaim before jabbing the butt of his weapon into Another Ghost's gut to keep it back. He then blocked a strike from Another Gaim attempting to retaliate. Using his singular nature he pushed back while spinning away, dodging a rush from Another Ghost.
Another Ghost and Another Gaim had both attempted to catch Shiro-Woz but were unable to accomplish even that. Shiro-Woz had gotten past the two before slashing them back with an enhanced slash to stagger them.
Shiro-Woz gathered energy in his weapon before unleashing energy slashes outwards. The attacks had hit their marks on both Another Riders and forced them to the ground. Wasting no more time he rushed towards them to finish them off before feeling something wrong. Something very wrong as he quickly turned.
"I'll be taking your power," Hiryu called out as he was right behind Shiro-Woz, jabbing the Blank Ridewatch against the future rider's chest.
Shiro-Woz gasped out as his suit began to shimmer and glitch, it became static filled before turning into green energy that flooded into the blank Ridewatch. Shiro-Woz staggered back as he held his chest while Hiryu backed away with a smirk.
[WOZ!]
Surprisingly the powers of Woz had managed to turn the standard Blank Ridewatch into another Woz Miridewatch.
Shiro-Woz gasped out, "…But how?"
"Zi-O was originally supposed to take the powers of the Heisei Riders, or so I heard," Uhr skipped into view. "So of course Another Zi-O would be able to do something just like that, no matter how much the rules have changed."
"What he said," Hiryu gave a grin.
"We're taking the power of Kamen Rider Woz from you," Uhr added.
"Boy?" Shiro-Woz questioned as he started to feel great anger at being outplayed by Uhr of all Time Jackers.
"It serves you right," Uhr remarked in a teasing manner. "And with your power gone, I'm gonna mess with you."
"I think not," Shiro-Woz called out as he opened his Future Note, even if his powers were taken it was a simple matter of taking them back.
~Kamen Rider Woz's power returns to Woz~
Uhr could only smirk while Hiryu was confused, but what happened was simple. The Woz Miridewatch turned into a ball of green energy that launched towards Shiro-Woz. Before Shiro-Woz could grab it a yell was heard.
Woz soon jumped into view, grabbing the energy ball before landing in a crouched state. Woz smiled as the energy reformed into the Miridewatch. It showed no effort in even attempting to go back to Shiro-Woz either. Woz straightened up as he flashed the Miridewatch, "Indeed, the power of Kamen Rider Woz… is in the hands of Woz."
"What are you doing here?!" Shiro-Woz asked.
"You're not the only Woz out there," Woz reminded.
Shiro-Woz soon realized this was all a trick for him to let down his guard and slip up. He gave a yell as he hunched forward, clearly venting his frustrations out. When he rose to make his next statement he was stunned. Hiryu, his Another Riders, Uhr, and Woz had all completely vanished.
"Everyone's just moving around today huh," Kagami remarked.
"Indeed," Finis gave a nod.
The two were currently enjoying some coffee at the rooftop patio that the Time Jackers had ended up taking a liking to. After Hiryu decided to go along with Uhr's plan, Kagami herself had decided to retreat to home base to gather her thoughts. Of course Finis was around while Ora and Swartz seemed to be going about their own business. This meant that Kagami couldn't have too much time to herself as she was in the company of someone who was fairly talkative.
"And you're sure you can't tell me all there is to know about Roze?" Finis asked before taking a sip of her coffee.
"Sorry to say but that isn't how it works," Kagami lied though her tone had made it effortlessly seem like a fact. "While I am connected to her, there's certain invisible rules that cannot be broken."
"That's a shame," Finis admitted as they took another sip before continuing. "But it doesn't matter in the long run if you lose, or even if Another Zi-O loses. Swartz will find his next golden goose and continue his plans."
"Well aren't you confident," Kagami remarked. "What's your stake in all of this anyway?"
"I've said it once before but I'll say it yet again," Finis replied. "Kamen Rider's have forgotten their true purpose. They are tools of evil, they are weapons of destruction. I suppose in a sense you are my greatest creation due to your power of corruption. Due to your very nature as being an opposite of Roze, you are everything I want."
"Well I'm flattered," Kagami smirked as she took a sip. "But it's not that simple with me… regardless, this game is going to end soon. And I can't wait to see what ending we'll be witnessing."
"What ending indeed," Finis gave a nod. "I know you have your own goals in all of this, so I'm curious as to see if the ending that occurs will be to your liking."
"To be honest, I win regardless of the outcome," Kagami answered as she stood up. She walked over to the window and pressed her hand against it, it warping at her touch. "Here's a warning for you if Roze does happen to win against me. She'll become stronger than you could ever imagine… to the point where you won't be able to win." She trailed before heading through the reflective surface to travel quickly.
The older Time Jacker could only scoff as they watched Kagami enter the mirror before standing up and walking outside.
"You honestly think you're clever by using us," Finis said. "However, your defeat will open the door to new possibilities."
Geiz was making his way through an empty university at the moment, going through the courtyard when he heard footsteps. He turned and was surprised to see both Blake and Yang running over.
"You two," Geiz said simply. "What do you want?"
"Is it true?" Yang asked. "That Watch is slowly killing you?"
"Does it matter?" Geiz asked.
"Your life matters!" Blake called out with clear concern. "Don't tell me you plan on using that thing anymore today."
"Yes I am," Geiz answered. "I'm planning on meeting Sougo to settle our score. I'll use the power of Geiz Revive to defeat Zi-O. That way, none of you will have to deal with that burden. I thought you two would be happy, this is what you want right?"
"I…" Yang trailed, she was afraid of Oma Zi-O but this whole situation was starting to feel further and further off than what it originally started as. Especially since this all started with Another Zi-O and Another Roze of all things.
"We won't stop what you want to do," Blake spoke up as she had the same thoughts but knew that they at least needed to get Geiz to slow down. "But we do care about you. And we just think that maybe you should rest a bit."
"Yeah," Yang gave a nod as she snapped out of her thoughts. She then patted her left bicep. "Like don't you want to make sure you're at peak physical condition to beat Sougo?"
"I get your concern," Geiz remarked. "But-"
"If you really got our concern you'd give yourself at least a break," Yang interrupted and crossed her arms.
"Geiz we're not asking you to stop," Blake pointed out, "I doubt we'd be able to convince you, but you need to slow down."
"They're right."
Everyone turned to see Woz walking out of a corner, holding a smirk as he kept a firm grip of his book.
Geiz turned slowly, "You again, Kuro-Woz…?"
"Bad timing buddy!" Yang gave a groaned out as she knew that Woz's presence would get Geiz to fight.
"Kuro-Woz, we're handling this," Blake gave a glare. "Get out of here."
"I told you…" Woz called out but directed his gaze towards Geiz. "I will not allow you to engage in mortal combat with my Overlord."
"And I told you…" Geiz countered. "My days of losing to you… are over."
[GEIZ!]
Geiz held his Ziku Driver up and loaded his Ridewatch into it without putting it on yet. Just as he was about to it was suddenly grabbed out of his hand by Yang.
"Whoops," Yang tossed the Ziku Driver away, the Driver clanging against the floor as it tumbled into a corner.
Geiz gave a glare, "What are you…"
"You aren't wasting your time with Woz," Blake answered as she stepped forward and drew Gambol Shroud, removing the main blade out of the sheath as she readied both of its blades.
"Yeah, you can have that win some other time buddy," Yang patted Geiz on the shoulder before readying her Ember Celica, both gauntlet and prosthetic.
"You two aren't realizing what you're getting into," Geiz warned.
"Had they faced me before this moment they might have won," Woz admitted with a smile. "Those from Remnant are definitely more capable fighters than you without your armor Geiz. However…"
[BEYONDRIVER!]
"What the…?" Geiz had to do a double take at this.
"Wait when did you get your own?" Yang asked.
"Where did you get it?" Blake asked.
"Let's just say I relieved my damnable alternate self of the burden of being a Kamen Rider," Woz answered as he allowed the Beyondriver to wrap a strap around his waist to lock it in place.
[WOZ! ACTION!]
Woz kept hold of his book in his left arm as he outstretched his right arm, the familiar watch projection forming behind him. But instead of the digital styling of Shiro-Woz, Woz's held styling similar to his book, numerous gears turning within.
"Henshin," Woz called out as he closed up his Beyondriver with one swift motion.
[TOUEI! FUTURE TIME! SUGOI! JIDAI! MIRAI! KAMEN RIDER WOZ! WOZ!]
The familiar transformation occurred as despite being a differently styled Woz, Kamen Rider Woz's appearance remained exactly the same. Of course despite assuming this form he still held his book under his arm.
"Rejoice!" Woz called out as he raised his free hand. "I am the chronicler of past and future, prophet of the one true timeline… My name is Kamen Rider Woz," He then held up one finger. "And this is the first page in a new chapter of history!"
"Was rejoicing yourself really necessary?" Yang asked as she raised her arms.
"I'm pretty sure for him it was," Blake admitted as she kept her stance.
"You two…" Geiz said as he went to back up to slowly make his way towards his tossed belt.
"Don't think of interfering," Blake called out.
"We'll be fine," Yang cracked her knuckles.
"Ready yourselves, Miss Belladonna, Miss Xiao Long," Woz called out as he held up his book as if he was going to use it as a weapon only to toss it aside. He then gave a yell as he charged towards the two Huntresses.
Blake and Yang both yelled out as the rushed forward, the two rushing to meet Woz in their clash.
Sougo was currently making his way through one of the more empty stretches of road, his destination being Saturn Parking. Weiss meanwhile held on firmly to him and kept her balance to keep from falling off by accident.
"I'm coming to you, Geiz!" Sougo called out as he continued to go at a steady pace.
"Sougo…" Weiss spoke up loud enough for him to hear, "Why are you so insistent in wanting us to stay on the sidelines?"
Sougo heard this and began to slow down heavily before finally stopping and pulling over to the side.
"I…" Sougo trailed, he remembered his Uncle's words. He knew he couldn't push this down any longer, "The dreams of Oma's Day… when Ruby got involved, Geiz suddenly evolved in strength and speed. He completely outmatched her and… she went limp and I think…"
"Trust your friends to be able to handle their own and know when they're outmatched," Weiss tightened and shifted her grip around Sougo a bit to hug him, "And you know as well as I do that Geiz would never do that to Ruby. He may try to deter her but he wouldn't go that far."
"R-Right…" Sougo trailed before he began to move back towards the center of the road while picking up his speed, "I'm just… scared."
"We all are," Weiss admitted. "But we'll get through this, together."
To Be Continued…
Next Time:
"Wait, what? No freaking out?"
"We're not going to stop you but we do want to help you."
"Here's your reward for cooperating."
"Now we need to see where it changes."
"Grab on!"
Chapter 50: The Enigma of Zi-O 2017
Author's Note: Time for a bit of a slower chapter this time even if we did have a few, albeit brief fights. I figured that if there was anyone that could give Ruby a good push with her dilemma it would be Junichiro. She has spent the most time with him and Sougo out of everyone else for the past year of her staying on Earth after all. Meanwhile both Blake and Yang have realized that their want of Geiz Revive comes with some nasty side effects and now they need to at least try and stall Geiz before he hurts himself further.
And of course we've now got team investigation with Tsukasa, Oscar and Tsukuyomi and their whole thing to deal with. That being said, the next Chapter title is certainly interesting, wouldn't you agree? Either way, thanks for reading and I'll see you all next time!