Rider Time Zi-O: Roze from Remnant
Chapter 89 – Pawns with Power
"As it is written in this book, Sougo Tokiwa embarks on a path which will lead him to become the overlord of time, Oma Zi-O," Woz said as he was within Amity Communication Tower's main stage, everything still as he had a single spotlight shining down on him, "With Amity Tower reactivated, the efforts of the Kamen Riders are seen all throughout Remnant. And with a decisive action from my Overlord himself… the tide of this battle has turned quickly."
He closed his book and looked over to the side, an unconscious Penny with Maria and Tsukasa standing nearby.
"Salem and Ironwood are no longer in full control," Woz continued as he looked upwards, "The Time Jackers have fully gotten involved and while the turning point has been reached, it will still be a grueling effort to win this new battle. However with these changes come new outlooks on the situation…"
Remnant – Solitas Tundra
To say the Winter and the Ace Ops were surprised was probably the most understated way to describe how they felt due to the past several minutes. They were all in complete shock as they saw the Grimm Geyser pierce through their shields before individual Grimm tore down the main pylons. They all watched with dread as they saw the once stationary Monstra move closer and closer before something caught their attention. A yellow beam of light had shined down on Geiz before forcefully transforming him into his Rider Form. He then further transformed into something resembling a wristwatch of all things before it vanished entirely.
In the next instant they heard a loud crash occur as Monstra reeled backwards from a sudden visible shockwave. Geiz had returned within minutes in the same yellow beam of light, but before questions could be asked, everyone's Scrolls went off. That was when they had seen the message Tsukasa had made on global communications.
"He's such a damn showoff," Geiz sighed.
"So Global Communications are back!?" Jaune asked in excitement.
"Looks like it," Oscar said, "Seems like the repairs worked."
"What the hell just happened?" Harriet asked.
"We stopped that giant Grimm from landing," Geiz said as he crossed his arms and looked up, noticing that Monstra hadn't moved in the slightest, "And it looks like Zi-O's kick was strong enough to keep it from trying a second time."
"Wait… you're saying that kid, Sougo, did that?" Marrow asked as he pointed upwards, "Seriously?!"
"Well he had mine and Woz's help," Geiz replied, not wanting Sougo to take all the credit, "But I don't think the specifics matter much."
"Why couldn't you all use it before?" Elm questioned.
"Such a powerful ability would be able to end the war early," Vine argued, "If it was able to just push back a Grimm that size with a single kick, what else could it do?"
"There was a time and a place for Trinity, and Sougo felt now was the time," Geiz replied as he lowered his arms, "And besides… your military would have been all over him had you seen its raw power."
"Whatever the case, it looks like you kids are still playing favorites with Mantle," Harriet glared, "All those armored guys we saw, they're Kamen Riders from the other world, right? So why aren't they helping in Atlas right now?"
"Oh trust me, I'm sure we'll bring the fight to Atlas now," Geiz answered as he met Harriet's glare, not impressed, "But out of the two cities of this Kingdom, which one had no heating alongside damaged defenses and no military to protect them?"
"You know…" Marrow was the first to speak up, "He's right."
"Really, you're going to side with them?" Harriet turned towards her ally.
"I'm just saying, we weren't under attack like Mantle was," Marrow pointed out, trying to get his ally to see reason, "We had defenses up, all they have is likely whoever's willing to help out."
"But now we are under attack," Vine said before looking over at Geiz, "You all should stand down and maybe we can work out some kind of agreement."
"Its way past any chance of that happening," Yang replied with a bored look, "Did you not hear what was just broadcasted?"
"Yeah, they basically declared war against us," Harriet said, "And that's fine, we have our own allies thanks to Swartz coming to us."
"You all seriously do not want to work with the Time Jackers," Oscar pleaded as he stepped forward, "They're just going to use you all alongside Ironwood for their own ends. They do not have your best interests in mind."
"Clearly they care about us more than you all do," Harriet cracked her knuckles before her exoskeleton armor shifted and formed over her arms, "So I think it's time to make some arrests."
"Reminder on who is in charge here," Winter said as she cleared her throat, having stayed silent the entire time, "But yes, unless you tell us where Penny is then we'll have to arrest you six to keep from getting to her. Plus there are the charges in place after all."
"You're seriously going down this path, huh?" Geiz asked.
"I believe in the General," Winter said before drawing out her sword, trying to push down her clearly conflicting feelings by focusing on a simple capture mission, "Stand down now or-"
"I think we all get it," Geiz interrupted, "Tsukuyomi."
"Right," Tsukuyomi said as she flicked her wrist, catching Winter and the Ace-Ops in her time stop.
"So what's the plan?" Ren asked.
"We knock some sense into them," Geiz replied as he prepared his transformation, "Because like hell I'm letting these idiots think they're doing the right thing any longer."
"Then how about we get started?" Yang said as she summoned her Magma and Blizzard Knuckles.
"Right," Tsukuyomi said as she prepped her Driver and Ridewatch as well.
"Henshin!"
[RIDER TIME!]
[RE-VI-I-VE GORETSU~! GORETSU!]
[KAMEN~ RI~DER~ TSUKU~YOMI! TSU-KU-YO-MI!]
The two Riders stood alongside their friends while Jaune, Ren and Oscar brought out their weapons. The time stop soon faded on the Ace-Ops as they all stepped back in surprise before the remainder of them drew out their weapons.
"We're really doing this… huh?" Marrow asked.
"They aren't giving us much of a choice," Elm admitted.
"I was hoping that we could talk things in a more civil way," Vine sighed.
"Sorry but when it comes to these punks it looks like all they care about is fighting," Harriet said as she charged up her Semblance.
"So this is your decision?" Winter asked as she stared directly at Geiz.
"It is," Geiz replied before raising his Jaclaw in its saw mode, "If we can't get through to you with words, we'll let our fists do the talking."
"Very well then," Winter said as she drew out the secondary sword within her main sword and took a dual wielding stance.
Remnant – Atlas Central Command
The room was now an eerie dark coloration as the lights had mostly been shut off, only a few flickering as the various Atlas Officials and Officers in the room were no longer their usual selves. They had been transformed into something more. While they kept their clothing, underneath they resembled that of Another Agito. All of them either were sitting and making basic keystroke taps or lumbering around.
At the very end of the room where the main monitors were was a makeshift cross made of various metals that could be found throughout the military compound. There was also various wiring running all over it as the Prime Another Agito was strapped to the cross, its arms spread as its head hung down. Its eyes flashed every now and again in rhythm as it hung there, motionless.
"I want any and all Atlesian Knight-200's on the main field of battle now," Ironwood said, temporarily out of his transformation. Despite not being in his Another Rider form, he was able to move around the Another Agitos freely, likely due to his status as Another Zi-O.
"What incredible command skills," Swartz said as he watched the Another Agito's at the consoles type away, albeit slowly, "You're definitely getting use out of these. And with Another Agito hooked up to the main defense system…"
"Yes, I can expand my army even further," Ironwood said, giving a nod before smiling, "To think this is the power that Sougo Tokiwa was keeping from me…"
"Indeed, and with a leader of your class you can hopefully push Another Zi-O's power beyond its normal limitations," Swartz added.
One Another Agito let out a groan before giving a salute towards Ironwood, the General of the Atlas Military somehow understanding that.
"Good," Ironwood said as he walked forward, "Prepare a transmission, I need to make sure that my troops are aware of what's going on."
"I shall leave you to it," Swartz gave a bow as he began to back away.
"Swartz," Ironwood turned towards the Time Jacker Leader, "My message will be going out shortly, make sure you make it to my top soldiers in time."
"Of course," Swartz said before vanishing.
Remnant – City of Atlas Outskirts
"It's still not doing anything," Sougo noted when he saw Monstra having floated back further before resuming its coasting position that it had held since arriving in Atlas, "I think I really did scare her."
"Good," Summer said before hearing something approaching from behind, she turned to see various Atlesian Transport ships making their way towards the army that was set up farther away, "They're deploying more forces?"
"They probably don't want to take any chances with Salem still waiting," Sougo said before getting a sudden chill. With a shiver he instinctively activated his Semblance, the view before him growing grey with dozens of red shapes before him. That was except for the airships, the red stiff shapes that likely were Atlesian Knights had suddenly morphed into more monstrous shapes and turned purple.
"Is something wrong?" Summer asked before noticing the glow on Sougo's eyes, "Wait is that…?"
"My Semblance," Sougo said as he put a hand to his chin as he dismissed his Semblance, "I haven't though up a name yet though. But that's not the important part."
"What is?" Summer asked, "You seemed very confused."
"I don't think those reinforcements are normal," Sougo said.
The hatches of the airships opened up before Another Agito clones leapt from the ships they were in, landing in front of the army. Their appearance causing yells as the Atlesian Soldiers raised their weapons to take aim.
"Soldiers, this is General Ironwood with an important announcement. Please do not fire on the new combatants that have entered the field. I also need you to put me on visual."
It wasn't long before the entirety of the Atlas Army began getting emergency local broadcast transmissions on the military line of their Scrolls. Taking them out they were able to see Ironwood standing in front of the camera with his arms behind his back.
"Despite what it may seem, those monstrous beings before you are our Atlesian Knights, converted into a stronger but still obedient form," Ironwood addressed, "This is Another Agito and they will be a great asset in our war against Salem. They are simply a new soldier in this army. And it is all thanks to a powerful ally we were able to do this. I alongside my top subordinates will also be taking the next step forward in leading you."
[ZI-O!]
The entirety of the Atlas Army could only stare in surprise at Ironwood taking out the Zi-O Anotherwatch before transforming into Another Zi-O. He then gestured behind him as he moved out from the middle of the frame, showing the transformed Atlesian Officials in the Control Room.
"I expect you all to work well with them, or I will have to simply turn you into better soldiers the hard way," Ironwood said in a near dangerous tone, "This was the necessary next step if we are to defeat Salem. So with that said, good luck out there soldiers."
The entire army could only stare in silence and shock before they heard the Another Agito Army turn towards them with low growls. The Another Riders weren't hostile however, simply showing that they were awaiting commands. The army quickly went to stand at attention before going to file among the ranks of the Another Rider Army. The Another Agito Army turned before moving forward, the Atlas Army slowly but surely following alongside them.
"Are those Another Riders…?" Summer questioned, "How?"
"He used the power of Another Agito to create an army…" Sougo narrowed his eyes, "Ironwood's really desperate to win this war."
Sougo and Summer soon turned when they heard a loud groan, it coming from Monstra as it puckered its lips before it spit out a ball of black liquid at the edge of the floating city. The two could only watch as a variety of Grimm began to erupt from the black liquid, Beowolves, Ursa, a Nevermore, a Teryx, a few Creeps, even a Deathstalker emerged alongside a lone Apathy. As this happened the aerial Grimm that were flying alongside Monstra began to move in.
Upon closer inspection, the source of the storm could also be seen, it being created by large electrical jellyfish-like Grimm known as Tempests. It seemed as though while not landing, Salem was determined to try and fight some kind of battle.
"We need to get going," Sougo turned towards his friend's mother, "The others need to know about this."
"Right," Summer opened up an Aurora Curtain before heading through alongside Sougo.
Remnant – Atlas, Schnee Manor
An Aurora Curtain soon opened in the entrance hall of the manor, Summer and Sougo hurrying through. Ruby and May were sitting at the steps of the staircase before standing up when they saw the two come through.
"Sougo that was incredible!" Ruby quickly hurried over, "I didn't know ZI-O Trinity could do that!"
"Same," May gave an impressed smirk, "What other tricks are you hiding?"
"Sadly that was our strongest trick," Sougo had a sheepish smile, "But it worked, right?"
"And you all saw the message?" Summer asked.
"You mean Tsukasa hogging the limelight and having the time of his life?" Ruby asked in a deadpan manner, "Yep."
"So what's the situation now?" May asked, "Did Salem attempt to land again?"
"No," Summer shook her head, "But she is sending some forces to meet Ironwood's army. And that's where the current issue lies."
"What's the issue?" Ruby asked.
"He created an army of Another Agito," Sougo explained. "So he has access to Another Rider powers."
"That isn't good," Ruby gave a frown.
"So what exactly is the plan?" May asked.
"We'll wait to hear from Geiz," Sougo suggested, "He and his team are busy and I'd like to confirm he's doing alright before making any more decisions."
"You better make sure you wait."
Sougo flinched when he heard the voice, recognizing it instantly as Weiss'. He looked up to see an annoyed Weiss hurrying down the steps of the staircase.
"Sougo Tokiwa you are an absolute dolt you know that?!" Weiss called out in near anger as she hurried down and marched over, "What were you thinking pulling that stunt?!"
"That uh… I couldn't let Salem land?" Sougo asked as if the answer was somewhat obvious.
"And what if Zi-O Trinity wasn't strong enough?" Weiss questioned with a sigh as she pinched the bridge of her nose only to instinctively close in before hugging Sougo, "I'm just glad your reckless idea didn't get you hurt."
"Uh…" Sougo blushed at this before slowly but surely hugging back. He had to admit this felt really nice, "T-There's no need to worry Weiss. I'll be fine, I promise."
"Good," Weiss felt relief course through her before realizing what she was doing. She quickly pulled away and dusted herself off before clearing her throat, her face looking nearly flushed as she was blushing heavily, "I think I'll make some tea to refresh everyone."
Sougo could only watch as Weiss walked off before going to follow after her, "Uh, I'll join you if you want?"
"That'd be nice," Weiss said as she kept from facing Sougo while making her way towards the kitchen.
May rolled her eyes at the interaction while Summer gave a light giggle.
Blake was currently coming from the kitchen with a cold towel and some ice water, she noticed Weiss pass with Sougo and tilted her head a bit, "Huh…" she muttered, "Her face looked just as bright as Ruby's hood right there…" She then noticed the grouping in the entrance hall, "Uh… what exactly is…?"
"Just a hug," Ruby said.
"Oh, oh…" Blake smirked in realization before walking past the group to head back to Weiss' room, "Carry on then."
"So…" Summer trailed as she moved over to Ruby, "They seem cute."
"Yeah, but I'm really wondering when they're going to admit it to each other," Ruby said before giving a sigh, pausing for a moment so that Blake would be out of range before lowering her voice, "Admittedly it's worse with Big Sis. I'm not sure if it was being away for a year that made me realize it more heavily but she and Blake are so obvious with each other it's not even funny."
"What about yourself?" Summer asked.
"W-What about m-me…?" Ruby asked in surprise as she backed away.
"Oh, so you do have a special someone," Summer put a finger to her chin as she had a teasing smirk on her face. Though she already had an idea given what she had seen briefly of Ruby and Penny.
"I have no idea who you're talking about," Ruby turned her head to side and crossed her arms.
"Sure I don't," Summer replied.
"I'm going to go help Blake check on Nora!" Ruby suddenly shouted as she pulled her hood up and used Petal Burst to launch through the manor.
"Well that was fun," Summer giggled before deciding to go and wander around.
Remnant – Solitas Tundra
The Solitas Tundra was normally a silent wasteland aside from the scattered villages and the occasional Grimm. Though in this case, the fight against the Ace-Ops, Huntsman and Riders echoed throughout the area. Vine threw his weapon forward, the throwing star extending and launching forward. Ren quickly braced against the star with his blades, trying to force it back but was unable to. He was surprised when Oscar quickly moved in, slamming Long Memory into the throwing star and sending it back towards Vine.
Vine caught his weapon before he used Aura Vines to extend his Semblance outwards, creating Aura constructed limbs to attempt to grab Oscar and Ren with. Jaune quickly rolled into the way, activating his shield's Gravity Dust function, creating a pulse that repelled the hand constructs away from the shield.
"Why do you fight so hard?" Vine asked, "This would all be easier if you surrendered."
"Sorry but we have a job to do," Jaune said before glancing back at his two partners, the two giving a nod as the three charged forward.
"And we do too, so if we have to get rough, so be it!" Elm called out as she used her Semblance to stick to the ground and brace herself. She then brought out her hammer and slammed it into the ground, causing the ground to shake for the three Huntsmen.
Vine then yelled as he leapt upwards, extending his arm out via his Aura in an attempt to sweep them away. Jaune quickly got between the Aura Arm and his teammates, bringing out his shield's hard-light extensions and defending against them. The defense had worked as the sweep attack had sent the three only tumbling back a short distance.
Tsukuyomi meanwhile was dodging blasts from Marrow and his rifle, taking aim with the Zikan Girade Tsu and shooting at Marrow to force him to dodge. Tsukuyomi then drew out the Faizphone X, dual wielding and firing at Marrow rapidly.
Marrow gave a yelp, dodging back and switching his weapon to its saw-bladed boomerang mode. He managed to deflect a few shots before one lucky hit knocked his weapon out of his hand. He quickly pointed forward, "Stay!"
Tsukuyomi gasped as she was forced to stop thanks to Marrow's Semblance.
"Sorry about this," Marrow apologized before gripping his bolas with his free hand and tossing them towards Tsukuyomi.
[THUNDER HAWK! SHIBIRE-TAKA, TAKA!]
The Taka Watchroid soon flew out from Tsukuyomi and struck the bolas in mid-air, electrifying and shorting them out. Marrow could only stare in surprise as his tactic didn't work only to wince as he was suddenly pelted by dozens of small projectiles against his stomach.
[THE KODAMACHINE GUN!]
The Kodama Suika Arms was up next as it launched dozens upon dozens of small seed-like projectiles against Marrow's stomach. It didn't take long for both the Kodama Suika Arms and Takawatchroid to charge towards him at once.
"Stay!" Marrow called out as he stopped both Ride Gadgets before realizing what he did. His usage of Stop on the Gadgets had freed Tsukuyomi and that meant she was free to attack. With a yelp he threw himself out of the way and towards his weapon, dodging a few incoming blasts. He picked his weapon up before switching it back to its rifle mode and taking aim.
Yang meanwhile was dodging against a Beowolf Summon, Winter having brought it out in an attempt to disarm Yang before moving in herself. The Beowolf Summon tried to grab at Yang who punched forward, it managing to catch the Magma and Blizzard Knuckles. Despite this Yang gave a smirk as she pushed forward, her weapons erupting in their respective elements, the added damage allowing her to slip the weapons past the Beowolf's grip, striking the summon directly in the stomach.
The Beowolf Summon was thrown back towards Winter who immediately dismissed it. Winter shouted as she leapt towards Yang, swinging both blades forward to force Yang back. Yang raised her weapons, blocking against the blades and digging her boots into the snow.
"You know, you're a terrible sister, right?" Yang gritted her teeth.
"What?" Winter narrowed her eyes.
"Just saying, of all the people you could follow, it's Ironwood," Yang said as she went to push back, a bit surprised and impressed by Winter's strength, unaware that the armored braces were enhancing the Specialist, "Not your own sister?"
"That's not relevant right now!" Winter called out as she pushed forward further, glad that her exoskeleton was giving her the strength needed to match and slowly overpower Yang. She shouted as she managed to swing further, forcing Yang to stagger back, "I'm trying to save Atlas!"
"Well you're doing a poor job by following Ironwood!" Yang called out as she dismissed her weapons before leaping backwards from a follow-up slash by Winter, she then used Ember Celica to launch herself forward, "Meanwhile Weiss is doing all she can to help!"
Winter's eyes widened as she saw Yang summon her Magma Knuckle, quickly dashing to the side and avoiding the knuckle smashing into the ground, causing a small plume of snow to kick up.
"I've made my choice," Winter said despite the clear doubt in her voice.
"Yeah, I can see that," Yang said as she stood up straight before cracking her neck, "But was it one you really wanted to make?"
"That's…" Winter trailed.
"Hey don't let them get in your head!" Harriet called out as she was currently battling against Geiz, speeding past and punching against him whenever she could, "We have a job to do remember!"
"A job that results in innocent people getting hurt," Geiz called out as thanks to him being in Revive Gouretsu, the hits only really pushed him slightly.
"Orders are orders," Harriet said as she continued to strike past Geiz to try and keep him guessing before suddenly leaping into the air. She then gave a yell as she fell downwards, reeling her arms back as she planned to strike fast and hard.
[POWERED NOKO!]
Geiz gave a yell and threw his arm upwards, planning on clashing with Harriet. Harriet herself gave a gasp and crossed her arms instead of going for the punch. She then braced against the saw of the Zikan Jaclaw.
[NOKO SETSUZAN!]
Geiz yelled further as his saw unleashed its energy forward, Harriet screaming out as she was thrown backwards her Fast Knuckles exoskeleton arms breaking from the forearms and falling into pieces all around as she was thrown back against the snow.
Harriet winced as she rolled to her side, her eyes widening when she saw her weapon completely torn apart. Everyone could only pause their fights in surprise, all of them staring as Geiz had essentially finished off his opponent first.
"Damn it," Harriet yelled out as she stood up, anger in her current glare, "Tell us where the Winter Maiden is already!"
"We're not giving her up!" Geiz called out.
"Don't let your stupid feelings get in the way of making the right call!" Elm called out, "She's needed at Atlas!"
"Yeah right, like we're going to let that convince us," Yang replied, "Besides if the roles were reversed wouldn't you all fight just as hard to keep the other safe?"
"You make it sound like we're going to do something horrible to her," Harriet replied, "We just want her to open the vault so we can be on our way."
"And she doesn't want to do that!" Tsukuyomi called out in annoyance, "What part of that do none of you get?!"
"Her personal feelings are hurting Atlas more than they're helping," Vine called out.
"I don't get how you're all so worried about a tin can that's just meant to protect Atlas," Harriet shook her head, "And right now she's acting like a broken tool."
"Don't speak about her like that," Ren spoke up as he stepped forward, clearly visibly annoyed by all the remarks the Ace-Ops were giving, "She's more than just metal or machinery. She's our friend and we'll do whatever it takes to keep her safe."
"Seriously…?" Harriet scoffed as she looked over, "I really had you pegged as the most level-headed of the bunch, but I guess you're just as naïve. Feelings don't matter, the job matters. It shouldn't matter if you lose her anyway, she can be replaced by another Penny probably. When you lose someone on your team, you move on. Replace them, like Marrow replaced Tortuga and Winter replaced-"
"No! No one is replaceable!" Ren snapped in near anger as he interrupted her before giving a gasp. His vision changed to a more almost grayscale coloration, only Harriet was in color as red flower petals rose up around her like fire, "You don't really believe that. You're furious about Clover's current state, and you miss his guidance."
"Huh?" Geiz turned in surprise.
Harriet held a light look of surprise before glaring as she went back to her anger, "You don't know anything about me!"
Ren began to look around, glancing at the Ace Ops, seeing Marrow surrounded by slowly falling blue petals. Elm had red and yellow petals surrounding her and Vine had green petals swirling gently around him. Ren looked down at himself, seeing pink petals gently falling down.
"Now it makes sense, this is one of the reasons why you lost against Team RWBY," He realized, "You, you try to fight how you feel about each other, so you'll never truly work as a team."
"What is… going on?" Tsukuyomi asked before realizing it could be only one thing, "Is that… his Semblance?"
"No it can't be, isn't it…" Geiz trailed off before realizing something, "Wait, did it evolve?"
"Shut up!" Elm called out as she was getting fed up with Ren's words, "You don't know what you're talking about!"
"You don't like this at all," Ren said as he looked directly at Marrow, "In fact, you don't want to be a part of it at all right now."
"I… I have a job to do," Marrow tried to refute though it was clear his conflict was visible, "I'm going to do it…"
"You don't want to be doing this either," Ren turned towards Winter, seeing a numerous amount of petals swirling all around her, red and yellow rising, swirling green, and falling blue petals.
"I…" Winter trailed as she looked off to the side.
BEEP BEEP BEEP
Winter and the Ace Ops suddenly got an emergency military call, all of them opening up their Scrolls to see the message. It was at this time that the message Ironwood had told the rest of the army was reaching them.
Winter could only stare in horror as she watched Ironwood's speech. Her hand shaking as she could barely keep her Scroll steady.
"…I alongside my top subordinates will also be taking the next step forward in leading you…"
Upon those words and Ironwood's transformation into Another Zi-O, she let her arm drop in shock as she stared down at the ground.
"Why…?" Winter muttered.
"Damn…" Geiz muttered as he noticed this.
"Hey, hey wait," Marrow spoke up as he hurried over to Winter, "Hey what did he mean by take the next step? What is he talking about?"
"I…" Winter's voice was barely above a whisper.
"Why, you all will become Another Riders of course," Swartz said as he suddenly appeared in the middle of all the fighting.
"Swartz!" Tsukuyomi called out.
"I have the Watches all set up," Swartz said as he held up five Anotherwatches, "So who wishes to take the first step?"
"Gladly," Harriet said as she rushed over to Swartz, "This is going to even the playing field, right?"
"Of course," Swartz smiled before shoving an Anotherwatch into Harriet.
[FAIZ!]
Harriet yelled out as she transformed into Another Faiz. She hunched over and gave a chuckle as she looked at her new form, "This power…"
"Harriet…" Elm's eyes widened.
"Is this absolutely necessary?" Vine asked.
"Of course, after all it's the General's orders," Swartz said, "I mean you heard what would happen if you disobeyed, right?"
Elm and Vine looked at each other before looking back and nodding.
"You all need to stop!" Oscar called out, "You're treading a dangerous path right now!"
"If it means keeping my sanity then I will do what I must," Vine said simply, figuring that if he was unwilling then he wouldn't be able to keep conscious control over his new form.
"I'd rather not be mindless," Elm admitted as well, realizing their current position here.
"I think it's time the peanut gallery went quiet," Swartz said as he spread his arms out, catching everyone but Winter and the Ace Ops in a time stop. Tsukuyomi could only try to struggle against it with her own powers, but even she was having trouble.
"Good," Swartz said before handing Another Faiz two Anotherwatches.
Another Faiz nodded before using her Semblance to speed towards Elm and Vine. Once she stopped near them she held out the Anotherwatches before shoving them into their bodies. The two Ace-Ops both gasped out as their transformations began.
[BLADE!]
[GAIM!]
Elm yelled out before transforming into Another Blade, Vine doing the same as he transformed into Another Gaim.
"I suppose you two are next…" Swartz said as he looked towards Winter and Marrow before holding out his hands and walking forward. He couldn't help but smile as he saw the clear hesitant expressions on both of them, "Now, now, don't be shy."
"I…" Winter muttered as Marrow looked at her and then at Swartz in concern, "I…"
Remnant – Mantle Streets
"Sento, how much more time do you need?" OOO asked.
"Just a bit more," Sento said with a grunt as he nearly bit his lip, "You cannot rush genius!"
"Will you hurry up already?!" Ankh yelled out.
"I told you not to rush genius!" Sento shouted.
"Ankh, stop patronizing him," OOO called out, "Anyway, I need something fast, so Medals please!"
OOO was standing alongside Ankh who was currently in his Greeed form. OOO was in base TaToBa, using the Medajalibur to slash through any Sabyr that came near the area. Ankh meanwhile was smacking away any Sabyr that got near before blasting a few from afar with fireballs. The two were near a building wall where Sento was untransformed and working on a scroll. The Genius Physicist was currently trying to hack and bypass various system codes for Mantle's infrastructure.
"Fine," Ankh said as he drew out Lion and Cheetah Medals before throwing them forward while moving backwards, "Eiji!"
"Thank you, Ankh!" OOO caught them before swapping his Head and Leg Medals with the two yellow feline Medals, readying his Driver before scanning it.
[LION! TORA! CHEETAH!]
The Medals circled around before lining up, giving OOO a gold lion themed head with blue eyes, alongside bright yellow cheetah styled legs.
[LA-TA LA-TA LA-TORA~~TAR!]
OOO yelled and unleashed an intense heat wave with just his roar, the pulsations launching outward and burning all of the Grimm in front of him. He then sped side to side, clawing through any Grimm that had managed to survive being burned away. The remaining Grimm tried to charge at him in a large grouping, hoping to overrun him.
[SCANNING CHARGE!]
OOO summoned three yellow rings in front of him. He charged through them with the Cheetah Medal's speed, his claws shining brightly as he performed several cross slashes against the Grimm. He skidded to a halt past the grouping, all of them exploding into black dust as OOO had managed to deal with the last of them.
"Jeez," OOO said as he dismissed his transformation and hurried over, "Ever since that geyser thing happened the Grimm have been agitated."
"More like annoying," Ankh scoffed as he reverted to his human form, holding his arm, "To think we're stuck on guard duty…"
"It's done!" Sento declared as the bottom edges of buildings began to glow a bright orange, revealing that the heating grid had come back online, "It's incredible, right? It's perfect, right? I'm a genius, right?!"
"You're an annoyance," Ankh remarked.
"Ah, I'm sure having the heat back will be good," Eiji smiled.
"It'll take a while to warm things back up but we can move onto phase 2 while we're waiting," Sento said as he went to pack away his tools before walking over.
"Is it clearing out the Grimm?" Eiji asked.
"That would be after both phases," Sento replied, "Come on, we should make sure Musclehead isn't lonely at the edge of the city. We have important business to attend to there."
Remnant – Amity Communications Tower
Pietro wiped some sweat off his brow, he had to admit being the central figure of Amity Tower and how it worked was a tough job. He had managed to pull away from explaining how the system worked and any major calls asking him questions for a bit. Using that time he had worked on fixing up any damage on Penny from the fight with Cinder, having had Tsukasa set up a long crate as a makeshift operating table. Thankfully Tsukasa's ability to warp different places via Aurora Curtains came in handy, having had the dimensional Rider grab supplies for Penny's repairs. Of course there were still some pieces of visible damage from the fight with Cinder but nothing too bad.
"How is she?" Woz asked as he walked over.
"Her body is patched up…" Pietro said before bringing out his Scroll to run a scan on her to try and strengthen her systems, "Now to try and figure out how to help her."
"That may be hard if it's an Another Rider transformation," Tsukasa admitted.
"Perhaps it may be different due to Ms. Polendina's unique physiology," Woz said.
"Hopefully," Pietro replied before giving a cough, "I hate seeing my sweetheart like this…"
"She'll pull through," Maria said as she tried to reassure her friend.
Suddenly Penny opened her eyes, her green eyes flashing purple as she stood up on the crate she was resting on. In a near instant a wind began to form around her and force everyone away.
"Miss Polendina!" Woz called out as he braced against the strong winds, "You must fight the Another Rider's control!"
"I don't think she can hear you!" Tsukasa called out as he braced to keep from blowing away.
"Penny!" Pietro called out, "Calm down, it's just us!"
"D-Dad…?" Penny spoke up as her eyes flashed green for a second before holding her head and dropping off the crate, falling to her knees, "I… I can't control it!"
"Come on girl, just focus!" Maria shouted, trying to reach Penny only for the attempts to be in vain.
[KIKAI!]
Woz's eyes widened as he heard the Another Rider announcement.
Penny was covered in dark wisps of energy before those broke apart. Another Kikai emerged in her place while yelling out as it stood up and swung its arms around it. Despite this it suddenly paused and jittered in its movements, growing stiff as it seemed Penny was fighting back.
"I… no… I don't want this!" Penny called out through Another Kikai.
"That's why they wanted my watches…" Woz suddenly realized as he went to prepare his transformation, "Tsukasa…"
"On it," Tsukasa said as he drew out his Decadriver, "If it's a mechanical issue I know just the trick."
The two were ready to transform when they alongside Maria and Pietro were caught in time stop. The two could only grit their teeth as they realized who had stopped them.
"Time… Jackers…"
"No… please… help…" Penny called out as she tried to gain control of Another Kikai.
"Looks like it's time to cash in," Uhr said as he walked over, "You remember the password?"
"Yeah," Ora said as she walked over as well and pressed a hand against the stalled Another Kikai, a keyboard projection appearing as she went to type in the code in the interface, "It's, will be the King."
WILL BE THE KING
Authenticate Unlock
Penny could only scream out before that scream faded, Another Kikai slumping forward before suddenly jolting into a straightened position.
"I live to serve my masters," Another Kikai said, utilizing Penny's voice as a template to speak.
"Good," Ora smiled, "We have an important job for you."
"Yeah, it's time we give some thorns in our sides some payback," Uhr said before snapping his fingers, "So come with us."
In an instant the Time Stop was dismissed as Another Kikai, Uhr, and Ora all vanished.
"NO!" Pietro shouted as he moved forward, "PENNY-!"
Woz winced as he stepped forward, clicking his tongue in displeasure while Tsukasa gave a sigh. The two looked over to see Pietro having a heavy coughing fit, Maria hurrying over to help calm him down.
"What do we do now?" Tsukasa asked.
"I'm… unsure," Woz admitted, trying to figure out why Uhr and Ora would simply take Penny instead of trying to attack and disable Amity. He had to run through all the potential uses they could have for her, and which ones would be beneficial to the Time Jackers.
Remnant – Solitas Tundra
"How about we finish this set of Another Riders," Swartz smiled as he got closer towards Marrow and Winter. He was fairly relaxed since he had caught his enemies in a strong enough Time Stop to last just a bit longer. Now all he needed to do was turn Ironwood's most loyal subordinate into an Another Rider.
"I refuse," Winter suddenly spoke up as she kept staring at the ground.
"Excuse me?" Swartz asked as he stopped, raising an eyebrow, "You what?"
"I said I refuse," Winter said as she glared while she looked up, "I am not becoming a damn monster!"
The frozen in time Riders and Huntsmen were surprised at Winter's words and her reaction to everything given how stubborn she was earlier.
"You refuse?" Another Faiz questioned, "What, are you abandoning everything you've worked for?"
"The only ones abandoning everything they've worked for are yourselves and General Ironwood!" Winter snapped as her glare stayed fierce, "If you really think I'll let myself be corrupted like that, after everything I've seen that kind of power do… then you don't know me. I won't lose myself to that kind of power like you all have!"
"What a shame," Swartz sighed as he was ready to move forward before gasping out as he was suddenly stopped. He moved his eyes to glance at Tsukuyomi only to see she was still struggling against the Time Stop.
"Stay… away from us!" Marrow had his hand pointed at Swartz, managing to keep the Time Jacker leader at bay.
"Marrow…?" Winter looked in surprise.
"You stupid little traitor," Another Faiz hissed out before speeding towards the two.
"Winter, do it!" Marrow called out.
Winter nodded before shouting as she summoned a Glyph underneath her, launching forward as she swung both her blades at Swartz. One struck against his gut and the other against his hands. Just as she did that, Harriet came in with a yell, shoulder checking Marrow and forcing him to hit the ground.
Swartz gasped out as he was struck twice, the Anotherwatches being thrown out of his hand as he was suddenly forced to stagger back. Despite this, his nature as a Time Jacker allowed him to keep from being easily cut into. The attack against him had done its job though, hitting him hard enough to free everyone else from the time stop.
"If you all won't join us yourself, then I'll make you join," Another Faiz sped towards the fallen Anotherwatches only for a blue blur to pick them up.
[REVI-I-VE SHI-PPU! SHIPPU!]
Geiz had entered Revive Shippu immediately, grasping the Anotherwatches in his hand before tossing them forward and slicing into them with his Jaclaw's claw mode. The claw struck only once and shattered them completely.
"Like hell I'm letting you do that," Geiz said as he glared underneath his helmet.
"You…" Another Faiz hissed out as she stepped forward.
"That's enough," Swartz said as he held up his hand, "They can learn the hard way of what happens when they cross the General."
Harriet looked towards Swartz, "But-!"
"No," Swartz shook his head, "I think we've gathered enough to bolster our forces regardless."
"It would be wise to retreat," Another Gaim agreed, managing to keep calm despite the transformation.
"That's a shame," Another Blade admitted as she looked herself over before gripping her hands, "I really wanted to test this power out…"
"In due time, in due time," Swartz smiled before suddenly vanishing alongside the three Another Riders.
Winter took a deep breath before falling to her knees while dropping her weapons, Marrow quickly hurrying over.
"Hey, are you alright?" Marrow asked.
"I'm not…" Winter admitted as she stared at the ground.
"I figured…" Marrow gave a sigh as he put a hand on Winter's shoulder to comfort her.
"Tsukuyomi," Geiz looked over at his friend, "Call the Time Mazines."
"On it," Tsukuyomi said as she dismissed her transformation. She then drew out her Tablet to remotely pilot the Woz and Geiz Unit Time Mazines to their location.
Jaune, Oscar, Ren and Yang slowly but surely made their way over, dismissing and holstering their weapons. Geiz meanwhile dismissed his transformation and walked over to Winter and Marrow.
"I'm sorry it had to come to this," Geiz said as he looked down at Winter specifically, "I know the feeling of looking up to a leader only for them to betray you."
"…you do?" Marrow asked.
"Yeah," Geiz replied, "Still haven't forgiven him for that stunt either."
"I wanted to believe in him, I wanted to believe he had the best interests for Atlas, for Remnant," Winter shook her head as she stared at her hands before gripping them tightly, "What have I been fighting for this whole time?"
"For a better future," Geiz replied before holding out his hand, "And you can still fight for it because now you know for sure that Ironwood doesn't have that kind of future in mind."
"I was honestly such a fool," Winter admitted as she took Geiz's hand firmly before she was helped up, looking Geiz directly in the face, "I brushed off the General's more questionable actions because I always kept telling myself it was for the end result, the greater good. What greater good is this then? Selling his and his soldiers souls to a devil just to gain more power? What good comes from allowing the Time Jackers to take over?"
"Yeah, I was getting freaked out too," Marrow admitted, "Just the way that Swartz guy carried his presence… it was setting off all kinds of alarm bells. The fact that no one else felt off about him at all was creepy."
"Because they wanted to turn a blind eye and simply follow orders," Geiz added before looking back at Winter, "What are you going to do now?"
"I have a request," Winter said, "The further this goes on, the more Ironwood is going to spiral out of control. I want you to help me stop him before he goes further."
"There's a limit and he's way past it," Marrow agreed before sighing, "I used to wear this uniform with pride, but now…"
"I know," Winter gave a nod.
"So um… please," Marrow turned towards Geiz, "I know you have no reason to-"
"I can tell you two are serious about this," Geiz interrupted, "I'll agree with it."
"R-Really…?" Marrow asked, "You're fine with just two Specialists just joining up?"
"You two didn't stand idly by and let yourselves be turned into Another Riders," Geiz replied, "You actively refused and fought back. That's enough for me, and that should be enough for the others, right?"
"If you're willing to fight with us, then yeah," Jaune agreed as Tsukuyomi nodded.
"You two do seem to be more willing to follow your true feelings now," Ren admitted.
"Don't worry," Oscar reassured, "We'll fight together and save both Atlas and Mantle, not just one or the other."
"Well what do you know," Yang smirked, "It may be pretty late but it looks like you did make the right decision after all."
"I suppose so," Winter replied before looking around, "Thank you all, for giving us this chance."
"Yeah, it means a lot," Marrow nodded.
"In the meantime though we should get to planning," Geiz said as he walked past Winter, the Geiz and Woz Unit Time Mazine's coming into view before landing, "And get to somewhere with friendlier faces."
Remnant – Atlas, Schnee Manor
"So… aside from my crazy stunt…" Sougo trailed as he went to help Weiss prepare the tea in the kitchen, "How are you holding up?"
"As best as I can," Weiss admitted, "Its… hard being in here. But well, I suppose having my friends here kind of helps."
"I can't even begin to imagine," Sougo admitted, "Though from what I've seen, your family other than Jacques don't seem too bad."
"You've… met them?" Weiss asked in a worried tone.
"Yeah, your mother seemed kind of cautious," Sougo admitted before continuing, "Your brother seems defensive but I think that's just him trying to act like your father and not be himself."
"Well she is the reason I was able to catch Jacques…" Weiss muttered at the mention of her mother's cautiousness before speaking up, "I wouldn't really call my mother cautious though…"
"What do you mean?" Sougo asked.
"She uh…" Weiss started before giving a sigh as she shook her head, "Sorry, it's just she has a drinking problem and because of that she sort of just checked out emotionally after a while."
"Oh…" Sougo trailed, realizing what she meant by that, "Weiss… I'm…"
"Its fine," Weiss said as she gripped the countertop, "While her drinking does bother me, it doesn't bother me that much with you and the others here."
"Well Ruby did say we'd be by your side, and that includes now," Sougo said as he put a hand on his friend's hand, "And… I know you do have some issues with your family but…"
"I know," Weiss gave a nod as she relaxed at Sougo's touch, "It's hard, but I know that they aren't fully to blame for everything falling apart. It was my father's influence that caused everything. It's just… hard given how things turned out for the longest time."
"I know it is," Sougo said, "I can't even imagine how you'd be feeling right now. But we can get through this, together."
"Thanks Sougo," Weiss looked over with a smile.
"Now how about we get the tea to the others," Sougo suggested as he noticed the whistle of the kettle starting to sound, moving away from Weiss to check.
"Sounds good to me," Weiss said as she followed after.
It didn't take the two long to set up a tea tray before walking towards where Weiss' room was. They figured some tea would calm them down a bit while they worked on a new plan now that things were moving forward. That was until they paused when they noticed May was still in the main entrance hall pacing around in an almost anxious manner.
"May?" Sougo asked, "Is something wrong?"
"Sorry… I just didn't think we'd be here this long," May said when she realized she was being watched, "I don't know about you all but I think it's time we head back."
"If you want to go you can, but we can't leave," Weiss said, "Nora is still injured, plus Ruby and Sougo need to be on Atlas just in case something happens further with Ironwood."
"Yeah, yeah I figured," May sighed.
"You don't need to worry about Mantle not having the few of us here," Sougo replied, "Most of the Riders should be down in Mantle already helping out."
"That's reassuring," May admitted, "But I at least still need to head back."
"Don't you have family in Atlas though?" Weiss asked, "Aren't you worried about-"
"No. Mantle needed me," May interrupted in a near bitter tone, "And to the Marigold's, that meant I wasn't their son anymore. And I made sure everyone knew that I wasn't their daughter. So forget 'em."
"Oh..." Sougo muttered as he heard this.
"Besides, they've got Henry just like yours have Whitley," May directed her next comment towards Weiss specifically, "You get what I'm saying."
"I…" Weiss trailed before shaking her head, "Either way you shouldn't go back empty handed, we'll give you some supplies before you go on your way."
"That'd be nice," May replied.
Near the corner of one of the upper rooms listening in was Whitley. He was trying to see if he could find Sougo again to talk to him only to catch their conversation. He looked to make sure he wasn't seen before hurrying off.
Remnant – Mantle, Time Jacker Hideout
Cinder was currently in the Time Jacker's hideout, looking over the Hi-Roze Anotherwatch while laying on one of the couches. Another Shinobi was standing nearby, completely still and docile. Finis meanwhile was sitting at the desk Swartz would normally sit at.
"To think, there was a power that surpasses the Maidens," Cinder said as she looked the Anotherwatch over, "With this… I could care less about that Puppet's Maiden Power."
"Combining that Anotherwatch with your own power has created a new transformation," Finis said as they looked towards Cinder, "Though there's still one more step before you're fully free…"
"This arm," Cinder said as she looked over her transformed Grimm Arm, "I can no longer feel any connection to Salem. It's like a weight's been lifted… but…"
"A replacement would be best," Finis said, "For now let us hone your abilities before we work on fully giving you your independence."
"That sounds good to me," Cinder said before glancing over at Another Shinobi, "I must admit she's very obedient."
"A testament to your strength my Queen," Finis smiled.
"Queen, huh?" Cinder asked before chuckling, "I could get used to that."
Remnant – Atlas, Schnee Manor
May was currently heading towards the front door with a bag of rations and spare medical supplies, while Ruby, Blake, Weiss, Sougo, Summer and Philip went to see her off.
"Sorry about not going with you," Sougo apologized.
"Eh, its fine," May replied, "It's not like your purposely lazing about. You've given us way more help than we ever could have gotten normally."
"Once we figure out where to go next we'll get in contact with Robyn," Ruby replied, "But right now we need to watch the situation in Atlas carefully."
"Just make sure you keep us updated," May said.
Knock Knock Knock
Everyone suddenly got on guard, Ruby, and Blake drawing their weapons while Sougo drew out his Ziku Driver, Summer brought out her Rosaber while Philip got on guard. Weiss took the lead alongside Ruby and Blake, placing a hand on Myrtenaster to quickly draw it. She slowly and carefully inched towards the door before gently pushing it open.
Weiss' eyes widened with a gasp as she fully pushed the door open once catching sight of who was on the other side. It was the old butler of the Schnee Manor and who Weiss considered a close friend.
"Klein!"
"Miss Schnee!" Klein called out with a smile, "I heard there was a patient here who needed my help."
"I, I am so sorry, Klein," Weiss immediately broke into an apology, "It's my fault that Father…"
"Please don't worry, my snowflake, it had nothing to do with you," Klein spoke with a slight stammer, his eyes changing to green as he held his hat to his chest. He put his hat back on as his eyes turned red, adopting a more fierce persona, "And everything to do with Jacques."
Everyone could only stare in surprise at the older man's sudden change of personalities while he promptly shut the door with a loud slam.
"Well, that's sweet of you," Weiss said, "But wait, how did you know-"
"Ah, young Whitley, I'm so glad that you rang!" Klein called out in his normal voice as his eyes changed back to their normal sky blue coloration, "May I please see the patient? I understand it's urgent."
Sougo, Summer and Philip turned to see Whitely walking down the staircase.
"Yes, she's in Weiss' room," Whitley said, "Just go up the-"
"I haven't been gone that long, Master Whitley. I believe I can find it," Klein interrupted, giving a pat on Whitley's shoulder before heading up the stairs.
"You called Klein?" Weiss asked in near surprise.
"That girl needs a medical professional," Whitley said before turning away from Weiss, "I didn't do it for you… I did it because I wanted to."
"I know, that's why it means so much to me," Weiss held a genuine smile as she hurried over despite Whitley's apprehension before pulling him into a hug.
Whitley couldn't help but give a sigh of relief when he realized what Weiss was doing, and after some hesitation hugged back.
Sougo couldn't help but crack a small smile, glad to see there was some progress being made.
The moment wouldn't last long however as the area shook briefly with a loud crash being heard.
"Uh…" Summer trailed.
"Did you call anyone else?" Weiss asked her brother only for him to shake his head.
Ruby couldn't help but feel something was off, opening up the doors before her eyes widened at the sight. Right in the main driveway of the manor was Penny who had seemingly crashed and made a shallow crater in the ground. Ruby could only stare in panic before using Petal Burst to launch herself near Penny. Sliding near her friend she went to sit her up.
"Penny," Ruby said as she shook her friend, "Penny! Are you okay?!"
Penny's body was still despite the shaking before her eyes suddenly opened, revealing them to be pure purple in coloration. She immediately stood up and unleashed a purple tinted tornado against Ruby, sending the Huntress Rider flying back with a scream.
Ruby could only yell out as she tumbled against the ground, landing near the Schnee Manor doors as everyone rushed out to see what was going on. Weiss immediately put a protective arm in front of Whitley to keep him from moving too forward.
"Oh no…" Sougo muttered.
"P-Penny…?" Ruby coughed out as she looked towards her friend.
"It is pointless to call out to the previous version," 'Penny' spoke in a more robotic and harsher tone as she dismissed the purple tornado, closing her eyes as she soon began her transformation into an Another Rider. Dark wisps of energy began spreading out from her chest, wrapping around her slowly but surely as her transformation began to take shape and the dark energy shattered off of her.
[KIKAI!]
Another Kikai released a brief yell before as it stood in Penny's place as all Ruby could do was stare in horror at what had happened to her friend.
"I am Another Kikai," The Another Rider spoke up, "And it is my mission to eliminate Kamen Rider's Zi-O and Roze."
To Be Continued…
Next Time:
"I don't want to lose her again…"
"No matter what you do, you'll kill her!"
"I think I've got something to help boost your pet up."
"There is another weapon master Rider here, is there not?"
"REJOICE!"
Chapter 90: All or Nothing Maiden Rescue
Author's Note: And so we continue to derail Volume 8 as similar but still different events happen from how everything else went. Swartz's appearance was enough for Winter and Marrow to defect earlier than usual, but even then we've still got issues. As Penny's arrival at the Schnee Manor now has brought a confrontation with it in the form of Another Kikai.
Now the main question becomes can Ruby and the others free Penny? Well, you'll just have to wait and see once we get to the next chapter. With that said, thanks for reading and I'll see you all next time.