Reviews:
Akira: Yes, at least they're slowly becoming friends. Not like back in AXZ where they couldn't stand to be in the same room. As for Nightmare...I don't know. Who do you think he is? We'll see. Yeah, the Divine Weapons were created from Takeru's Weapon back in GX. Now all the Riders have them. I needed to give them something for the time being.
primenidus: At this rate, the whole building is going to burn down.
nickseverino8: Sad chapters lately. Hopefully, they can save Yosuke soon before Psykos keeps using his body for bad things.
SoutaAmetsuchi: Yeah, Hazuki is a fucking psycho lol. The dude has no qualms about mentally torturing people just to get the wish.
Lord Ri The Husbu King: Is there a difference? To be honest, the Amalgam scene was pretty lame to me. It just happened too quickly and out of nowhere. And nothing really happened. Hibiki fought Noble Red alone and everyone just watched. Only for the mission to be called off before we saw more. I liked the Ignite Module introduction better, to be honest. More build-up. Also, damn, you're giving up on Yosuke already? I thought he was your favorite character. If so, do you have a new favorite character now? As for why they didn't fuse, it's because both Monster and Rider have to be in perfect synch for a split second. Also, the Rider needs to be pushed over the edge both physically and mentally. That's why it took Hajime his whole family dying in front of him, learning that his dad is Odin, and getting his arms cut off for him to do it. Also, the trigger differs from every Rider. Hajime needs rage or anger. Which works because he's a very volatile person. If you read the scenes when his angry, he's pretty angry.
Tenzalucard123: From enemies to friends? Maybe? Goro and Takeru came back, but Gai didn't bring back Andreas. Jades couldn't keep that secret anymore and let it out. Now Terunosuke wants him dead more than ever.
Chapter 120
Aiming for the Heart
Elsa and Allister were lying in bed, watching as Mona sleeping in the middle of them. After their altercation with SONG, they retreated to the DDV's penthouse to rest. Noble Red was due for a meeting with Fudo, as well as for a new base of operations. In the meantime, they were allowed to rest for the day until they were called in.
"She's worried about you." Elsa said, her voice as quiet as a whisper, her eyes fixated on her lover."So am I."
"I know." Allister heaved a sigh, closing his eyes."I'm sorry you had to see that today. What did Mona tell you?"
"Apparently she met up with that girl, Chris, when she went out to buy some things for the cupcakes she made." Elsa gently rubbed the little girl's cheek."And she's sad for her. Because she sees her in me. I think she's scared that you'll go away too."
"That's not going to happen," Allister reassured her, reaching for her hand.
"She's a danger to you. Chris Yukine. And I want to crush her so you're safe." Elsa's ears perked up."But...I sympathize with her. And when you summoned her dead boyfriend like that, I...Well, it made me uncomfortable-de-arimasu..."
"I know. And I'm sorry. But I needed to do that to get them to waver."
"But...isn't that too much? I think that's what Mona meant. What if one day..." Elsa's eyes began to water."What if one day I have to see you like that?"
"It won't come to that, Ellie. Don't worry. Look at me, Mademoiselle."
"Oh, stop it. You said you lost the accent, but that was perfect." Elsa giggled. They continued staring into each other's eyes for a while before Elsa broke the silence."But is it necessary? To do all of this?"
"It is. It has a purpose."
"You're hiding something from me."
"Elsa..."
"I can tell." Elsa frowned."I can tell you're hiding something from me or you don't want to tell me-de-arimasu. Please be truthful, dear."
"There is...something I haven't told you."
"Does it have to do with that form you showed me?" Elsa pursed her lips."When your eyes turned red and you had those horns?"
"Something like that, yes."
"Is it bad...?"
"No..."
"Will you tell me one day?"
"I will. Just...not now, okay? I promise you I'll tell you everything." He kissed the top of her hand gingerly."But everything will be alright. I won't let anything happen to you or Mona. I promise."
"I believe you. Just...be careful." Elsa pleaded, squeezing his hand tighter."Because Mona needs us both-de-arimasu. I need you."
"Got it. Orders received." He played with her ears a little bit, making her purr at his touch.
"Do you remember back when we were little and we used to read those tell-tale stories?"
"Yeah. They were pretty wacky, I won't lie."
"Sometimes...I wonder if we can have a happy ending like those stories."
"We will. Trust me." He said, not wanting to reveal more of Hazuki's plan to her.
He kissed her cheek before getting off the bed.
"Where are you going?"
"Just going to get a drink or something. My throat is dry. Try to get some sleep. Remember the meeting later."
With that, the snake-themed Rider exited the room and headed for the refrigerator. To no one's surprise, they had raided the fridge. But it was fine. He was going to get groceries with Terunosuke tomorrow. So he got a bottle of black tea and popped it open, heading for the balcony to get some fresh air. He was surprised to see Terunosuke up and about, cigarette in hand.
The air was cold and the sun was just beginning to rise.
"Oh. Kuwana-san. Didn't expect to see you awake."
"Yeah." He puffed some smoke."Vanessa took over my bed with that Reina brat. So I figured I'd take this moment of silence to relax."
"I can leave if you want."
"Nah. It's fine. You're the one paying for this place after all." He snorted.
The assassin silently made his way over to the railing, leaning against it as he stared down at the streets below.
"I didn't know you smoked."
"First time for everything." He chuckled dryly."Funny. I always made fun of smokers and people who drank like it was fucking water. But...I can see the appeal."
The younger man took a sip from his tea. He felt slightly awkward in his presence. They'd known each other for a while and had been working together for the same objective, but they kept their relationship as professional as they could.
"I knew."
"Knew? Allister perked up, not expecting the older man to break the silence.
"I thought at first I was just jealous. That I was just being a little kid and being upset that Jades got the Deck and I didn't." He inhaled some smoke before letting it out."But in hindsight, maybe I knew all along. My memories were suppressed, so maybe part of me felt it. That Deck was mine. Maybe that's why, no matter how much I tried to rationalize it, I could never come to terms with it. Because I knew."
"I can't believe he actually said it. I mean, to admit it like that. Maybe he really didn't want you to give Andreas his consciousness back."
"It's because that motherfucker can't face his failures like a man." He spat scornfully."All he does is run away like a spineless coward. Never even thought of telling me the truth. And from everyone's reactions, no one knew either. He probably thought he could take that to the grave. But the guilt was eating at him and he couldn't keep lying."
He crushed the cigarette in his hand, tossing it off the balcony."All these years thinking I was inadequate...all those years when I tried my hardest to appease the old hag...to prove myself that I was worth something. That I could do it too. All of my hard work...it meant nothing. Just for this piece of shit to take that from me and then pretend he did it for my sake. I told you his Mom had a miscarriage, right?"
"Yeah. You said that he told you that back in Greece, his Mom killed herself after the miscarriage." Allister recited something he heard countless times when Terunosuke wanted to put Jades down.
"He couldn't cope with it. So he ended up wanting to make everyone in FIS his siblings. Since that was his fucked up way of coping with reality." He chuckled bitterly."What a fucking bastard. I told this to the others when we first met again. And no one seemed to give a fuck. But now, they know he lied again. And he's been lying this whole time. He destroyed my life. Now I won't stop until I make him suffer and pay for all of his sins."
"Didn't think I'd ever see you this motivated, Kuwana-san."
"Heh. Look who is talking. You've changed too." He sideglanced his comrade."Look at you. You went from being a mindless killing machine with only the mission in mind to a family man. Is that what you were doing back there? Talking to the Miss?"
"Yeah...She's worried about the future. And...she's onto me. She knows I'm hiding something." He removed the bandages covering his snake brand."It's a matter of time before she finds out the truth."
"Do you think she'll tell her friends? If Fudo finds out about our plans and that we have Loki, it could be problematic."
"She's not that close to finding out. Naturally, I wouldn't tell her, as much as it pains me. But..." He looked at his hand with a small smile."It's funny. I joined with no objective in mind, thinking that I was just here to make Hazuki-kun succeed. Because I was just a puppet with no goals of my own. But I found something I didn't even know I wanted. I found Elsa and adopted Mona. And...it's like my wish has already come true. Quite ironic it happened way late into the game, though."
"Want my honest opinion?" Terunosuke breathed in the cold morning breeze."Take your girls and get out of here. Ain't nothing left for you here. Take Strike too. I don't like dogs. I'm a cat person."
"What? You want me to just leave?"
"Let's face it, you got more to lose than I do." Terunosuke made eye contact with him, speaking man to man."Those girls need you. So the only thing I can do is tell you to leave."
"And go where?" Allister huffed."Ragnarok is destined to happen. When it goes off, no place on the planet will be safe."
"Maybe so. But at least you'll live the rest of your days in peace. Away from this shit. Before shit hits the fan." Terunosuke shrugged."Either way, it doesn't matter. Once Ragnarok starts and all life is decimated, all we have to do is wait for Kaburagi-kun to defeat Odin and get that wish. Then we can enjoy the new world to our liking. Where none of this will even matter."
"Makes sense. Eternal peace and salvation. That's what we seek." The assassin smiled at his friend."Do you think we'll meet in the new world? All of us? Or do you think we'll just be strangers?"
"Well, if I understand correctly, anything you wish will become a reality. So if you wish it enough, we might be able to see each other again."
"What about you? Do you want to see us?" He teased.
"Mmmm..." Terunosuke rubbed his chin."Maybe if I find some spare time and I'm not too busy with Serena, I might see you guys again."
"Heh. You're a softie, Kuwana-san."
"Shut the hell up." He smirked.
"But...I can't leave." He noticed his brand pulsing."We knew what we signed up for. A new world free of evil. It's too late for any of us to back down after coming this far. You said this before. We all have our roles to play. And I have one as well."
"I did say that." He nodded."You also said we all gotta compromise."
"Yeah. So I'm compromising. I'll stay and fight to make sure we achieve our goal and all of this is worth it. We have our part to play in Ragnarok. And then, it's up to the Calamities to continue."
"What a depressing thought. But...As long as I kill Jades, I don't give a damn about anything else."
"Do you think killing him will make you happy?"
"Did killing Takeru Sakamoto make you happy?"
"It...did. At the moment. Though...I think that was just the Divine Power taking control of me. I felt euphoric. But when it passed, I felt vacant. And I didn't even hate Takeru. It was part of my mission. For you, it might be different."
"Possibly. Whatever the case, I know what I have to do." Terunosuke got off the railing, making his way back.
"Whatever you have up your sleeve, good luck, Kuwana-san."
"Heh. Like I need something as dumb as luck. After all..." He turned on his heels with a wide grin."I was the better choice all along."
To say the atmosphere was tense was an understatement. Jades was standing far away from the others, receiving glares from Raiden every now and then. But right now, it was not the time for that.
"Tsubasa..." Genjuro wasted no time in receiving his niece in her arms.
"Uncle...they...they got..." She sobbed in his chest, the man soothingly rubbing her back.
"I know. We'll get him back. That's a promise."
"Tch." Bragi didn't bother hiding his annoyance when he noticed the unknown people who no doubt were the reason they were called back."Great. So while we were fighting for our lives, our HQ got seized."
"Seize? Boy, you make it sound like we're barbarians."
The group looked to see a man in a brown suit with a smug smile."The Disaster Prevention and National Defense Law, Article 6."
"The Japanese government has ultimate authority regarding all special disasters domestically." Genjuro recited, still holding onto Tsubasa."Right?"
"That's correct." The man grinned, holding out an official warrant in his hands."We are conducting a lawful investigation of SONG as representatives of the Japanese government. So I would appreciate it if you don't refer to it as some invasion by force. We can't have you causing a disturbance."
"So coming in unannounced and stopping us in mid-operation doesn't count as an invasion-" Elfnein quickly covered her nephew's mouth to prevent him from running his mouth.
"At any rate, UN special forces units like yourselves are allowed to use force on Japanese soil only because the Japanese government has prior notification and approval. Am I correct?"
"That would be the case if we didn't submit the necessary paperwork last year-"
The man held his arm out, prompting Genjuro to stop."The weapons we observed earlier weren't mentioned anywhere. Care to explain?"
"He's talking about the Amalgam..." Elfnein then gasped."Wait a second, Bragi-chan. Did you not submit your paperwork when you created the new cards?"
"Ah...I sort of...forgot." He chuckled sheepishly."My bad, gang..."
"No way!" Everyone glared at him simultaneously.
"I-I had a lot in my mind, okay?! Even a genius like me can make mistakes..."
"Even if the boy didn't screw up, the other weapon those girls used is still a factor." The man forged on."If you truly have nothing to hide, then you have nothing to fear from our investigation, right?"
"Of course. But I have one condition." Genjuro furrowed his brow, easily towering over the man."The Gear users and Kamen Riders must be allowed to roam free with their Pendants and Decks. We're at war here. We need to be prepared for the unexpected.
"That seems reasonable." He nodded."But for the time being, they may not use those weapons of theirs until we're done. Now, if you don't mind, we'd like to begin as soon as possible."
"So are we done?" Raiden broke his silence."Good. Let's step outside for a bit."
"Oh, shit." Hamaguchi whispered to Hajime."It's going to get ugly, man. Do you see that look in his eyes? That's the look he makes when he's pissed. We should probably be ready to restrain him."
"I seriously doubt it'd get to that point." Hajime shook his head."It's Raiden we're talking about. The guy is pretty self-controlled to avoid starting swinging immediately."
As soon as they exited the room, Raiden wasted no time and slammed his fist against Jades' face, knocking the man down to the ground. Hajime and Hamaguchi quickly restrained him, holding him back as he fought to break free.
"You just had to jinx it!" Hamaguchi hissed.
"You piece of shit! You fucking liar! You lied to all of us, you bastard!" Raiden screamed.
"Raiden, calm down!" Shirabe stood in front of him."Please!"
"Jesus, keep it together, man!"
"No. It's fine." Jades sat up, blood dripping down from his mouth after bruising the inside of his cheek."I deserve it. I lied to you guys...I kept this hidden for so many years..."
"But why?" Maria scowled."Why would you do something like that? To...to lie to us all of these years...and to...You crushed Terunosuke's dreams...?"
"How could you...?" Kirika muttered, standing far from the others. They all were keeping their distance from Jades."Why did you do that to him...?"
"I thought...I was doing it for his own good. I wanted to protect him...to protect all of you..." Jades closed his eyes in shame."But..."
"That didn't even matter. You know what surprises me?" He wrestled from Hajime and Hamaguchi's arms."The amount of excuses you're willing to go before you realize you're a fuckup."
"Raiden!" Elfnein exclaimed in shock.
"Come on, man. Give him a break-"
"No. Fuck you. This has nothing to do with you." Raiden jabbed his finger against Hamacuhi's chest, causing him to recoil."I hate this so much about you, Jades. You always, and I mean ALWAYS think you know what's best for us. The same shit happened with Fine! You went behind our backs and you almost condemned one of the girls to become her host! If things went even a little bit differently, then what?! You said you wouldn't lie to us anymore! That you would trust us! But you never trusted any of us to handle ourselves! And you thought you had everything under control!"
Raiden stormed his way toward Jades, but Elfnein grabbed his arm to prevent him from hitting him again."Let me tell you something. Because of that stupid shit you did, Terunosuke is the way it is. You made him feel inferior and that he wasn't good enough. That's why he accepted Ryuga's deal. Because he wanted to be recognized. For this effort to be worth something. To...see Serena again..."
"But how do we know he wouldn't have just gone rogue like he did?" Bragi said, bringing up a good point.
"Yeah! I mean, if he wants to revive Serena, then wouldn't he have taken the deal too?" Hibiki asked.
"He wouldn't. He may not have cared much about us but he never hated us. He had his way of showing his affection." Raiden turned to face his sister."Kirika, and Shirabe, you both know. How he was. He wouldn't have taken that deal if we at least...we at least made him feel like he wasn't worthless. Andreas knew all along. And he's dead. Because of you!" He pointed at Jades.
"I'm sorry...I'm sorry..." Jades covered his face, unable to look at them in the face.
"Personally, I never want to talk to you again." Raiden spat with all the venom he could muster."You girls do what you want. I'm done with this fucking selfish liar."
He harshly pulled away from Elfnein, storming away.
"Shit..." Hajime ran a hand through his hair. No one knew what to do or what to say. Even Maria was stunned.
"Cheer up, Jades-san..." Hibiki and Chris approached the burly man on the floor."It's going to be alright. It's-"
"It's not fine, Hibiki-chan. But I appreciate the thought." He slowly got up and started to walk away.
"You're not going to say anything?" Tsubasa asked her idol friend, but she remained silent.
"I don't know...I just don't know..."
"What a cool place." Reina twirled around as she and her friends were not inside of the ruins of the Chateau de Tiffauges."It's like a mini castle!"
"Yeah. Except for all the holes." P. Yosuke cringed when he saw yet another hole in the wall."Ah...I remember. Or well, Yosuke does. Here's where Maria and the group fought to stop the Chateau. Yeah, yeah. Yosuke heard about this later."
"Wow...I can see the city from here." Vanessa marbled at the city from afar.
"If I'm not mistaken, my body is located in the hospital in that city," Amy informed them.
"That means we can go visit and you can see your mom!" Vanessa smiled at the robot on her shoulder.
"That'd be great, but...Not now. I want to have my body back first before I see my Mother again..."
"Still, is this a good idea?" Angelo pondered, staring at the city in the distance."To be in such a place?"
"Since the Disaster Prevention law was passed, cleanup of special disasters in Japan has been my jurisdiction." Fudo emerged from the dark, accompanied by two men."In other words, this is now a sanctum where none shall meddle carelessly. Which makes it perfect for a hideout."
He turned to one of the men behind him, and he stepped out, holding a briefcase and opening it, revealing Shem-Ha's bracer."It's time to begin the last phase of the plan. You will forget the divine power into a blade fit for a sentinel."
Angelo hummed, walking up to receive the briefcase.
"As I mentioned earlier, you will also require energy for the activation. And we're preparing for that." His gaze hardened."You have managed to give me some decent results, but from now on, I'll be expecting nothing but the best. Am I understood?"
"Yes, sir." Angelo responded for them."We'll handle this."
"Good. Now, I will send more blood later. I know how some of you desperately need it." He glanced out the hole, staring at the city."And I need you all at your best for what's to come."
Later that day, the members of SONG were gathered around the cafeteria. Of course, people like Jades, Raiden, and Maria were missing. The former because he had chosen to stay away from the group for a while, and Raiden and Maria because they both needed some time to themselves.
"I wonder if I'm not a good person for not reacting the way Raiden and Maria did-desu..."
"Of course not, babe." Hamaguchi sat closer to his girlfriend, giving her a loving embrace."It's just you guys aren't as into the matter as they are. If I'm not mistaken, you said that everything back in FIS happened without your knowledge, right?"
"That's right." Shirabe nodded."We were too little. Andreas didn't know either. Most of the arguments and fights they had, they did it without involving us. So we weren't aware of what was going on..."
"Still...I can't believe Jades-san really did do that. It's...fucked up." Hajime ran a hand through his hair.
"How? He just prevented that psycho Terunosuke from getting the Deck. Who knows what he'd have done with it." Chris scoffed."You already saw what he did with the Gai Deck."
"Yeah, but that happened because he allegedly killed Atticus-san after Jades-san had the idea to bail him out of FIS. It connects to Raiden's point of him just assuming what's best for someone."
"You're not seriously excusing a mass murderer!" Chris slammed her hand on the table."The fuck is wrong with you?!"
"Yukine..." Tsubasa frowned.
"I'm not. But my point is...I get I understand..."
"Understand?" Hibiki tilted her head.
"What if your one motive in life, or something that you had believed for so long, turns out to be completely wrong? How would you guys feel?" Hajime asked the group."It happened to me when I found out the truth about my Dad. It...changes your whole point of view. It's not easy."
"I...guess you have a point." Chris caved, turning her face away."But do you think it would have been any different?"
"Who can say? I think all it takes is the right person." Hajime said, eyeing Hibiki with a loving gaze."I wasn't the best of people out there. But when I met Hibiki, I managed to become a better person. 7 billion people, 7 seas, 7 continents, and despite all of that, I was lucky enough to meet her."
"Hajime..." Hibiki blushed, her heart melting."W-where did that come from...?"
"But for real, people can change, Chris-dono." Bragi chimed in."I changed. I thought I was meant to be like the Second since I was created for that purpose. But everyone did their best to turn me around. And I became a better person. I can guarantee you people can change."
"But can you really say he would have been a better person?" Chris pressed.
"Who can say? I think that's why Raiden-dono and Maria-dono are so upset. Maybe he could have been a better person. Maybe he wouldn't. It's impossible to know and all we can know is speculate."
"I...don't think he hates us." Shirabe rubbed her arm."When he summoned Andreas...he didn't give him consciousness right away. Not until Ryuga was pressing him."
"And to be honest, he was giving me shit the other day because Kirika was dating me." Hamaguchi shrugged."I think only a brother that cares can be bothered with that."
"Are you idiots listening to yourselves?! You're siding with a murderer!" Chris exclaimed.
"No one is siding with him." Hajime said, his voice calm."It's just...maybe Jades-san fucked up. As Raiden said, maybe he didn't trust them enough. I'll be honest, I don't think this is something for us to get involved in. At least, not to judge. Remember, except for Kirika and Shirabe, we're not involved with what happened in FIS. We can't say who is right and who is wrong. But what we can do is support them, as their friends. This past week has been very somber, hasn't it? Maybe we should try to take our minds off of things?"
"Yeah, that sounds like a good idea!" Bragi exclaimed.
"You two are agreeing on something?" Chris arched a brow."Is hell about to freeze?"
"Uh...Well..." Both boys trailed off.
"It's fine. Sorry. But...I need some time alone after what happened." Chris got up from the chair and excused herself, reducing the number of people again.
"What do you guys do for fun?" Hamaguchi asked the aunt and nephew duo."Since we're all off for the time being, might as well hang out, right?"
"Well..." Elfnein pondered for a bit."I like to take it easy. By using an applied version of the direct feedback system, I can simulate the electrical signals that represent memories in the cerebral-"
"Wow, you almost put me to sleep." The blue-haired boy sweatdropped."What about you, Bragi?"
"I like to build things."
"Like machines?"
"Nah, like Legos." He grinned."I bought some Legos and I'm trying to assemble them."
"Why Legos?" Hibiki blinked.
"Well, you remember the model I made for Tobias? I wanted to expand my horizons for a bit and try different things. So right now, I'm building Legos. Well, I had been. I've been trying to put these Relics we got into use. I can make one into a Faust Robe. The Golem. The other one though...it's still a hard code to crack. But I could use a break."
"Well, at least you seem to have more fun than your Aunt." Shirabe giggled.
"That's not true." He moved his chair closer to Elfnein and leaned on her shoulder."My Auntie is awesome and very smart. I'm just a little more practical with things."
Eflnein giggled, gently brushing her nephew's hair.
"I guess that's true..." Kirika hummed."Raiden never seems to get bored around Elfnein-chan."
"Speaking of, I should probably go talk to him." Elfnein got up from her chair after Bragi sat up.
"Invite him to come with us." Hajime said."Hibiki and I have been planning to go out for a bit now. You can bring your nephew with you if you want. What about the rest of you guys?"
"I'll pass, thank you." Shirabe shook her head."I promised Wei-kun I was going to go practice with him."
"Practice?"
"We're practicing for an ice-skating tournament coming up." Shirabe replied."Well...he has. Due to everything that's been going on, I haven't been able to make it to practice..."
"I get it. It's cool. Have fun with my cousin." He nodded in understanding."What about you, Hamaguchi? Kirika?"
"We're just gonna Netflix and chill."
Hajime and Shirabe stared at him with judgemental glares, much to the confusion of the others.
"I-I swear! We're gonna binge-watch Harry Potter!" He waved his hands frantically in front of him.
"It's true." Kirika backed him up."Just movies."
"Kiri-chan..."
"I just need to get my mind off of things too, Shirabe," Kirika said, her tone sad. And Shirabe understood she was being sincere.
"Okay..."
"I'm so lost," Bragi muttered to his aunt.
"Me too."
Raiden was sitting in one of the lounge rooms of HQ, lying on a couch and staring at the ceiling.
"Raiden?" Elfnein peered through the door."Are you okay?"
"Yeah." He said in a not-okay tone, his gaze glued to the ceiling.
"Can we talk?"
"Sure."
She made her way over to the couch as he sat up, allowing her some space to sit.
"How are you feeling?" She asked, her voice full of concern.
"Like complete shit, if I'm being honest. Sorry about screaming earlier." He apologized."I didn't mean to startle you."
"It's okay. You were upset. It was a natural reaction after what you learned..."
"I just...I can't believe he hid that for so long. Years and years. We believed that maybe Teru-ni didn't have what it took to be a Rider. We saw him train and train but never got a Deck. Even after we thought he died, Andreas and I got ours pretty easily." Raiden covered his eyes."All this time...it was a fucking lie. And what did that lie do? Possible ruin hundreds of lives."
"But you can't blame Jades-san for what Terunosuke-san did."
"Can't I? Teru-nii did it because he thought we turned our backs on him. That we never saw any worth in him. Andreas believed that he didn't kill Atticus-nii-chan. And I believe him now. All of this...is the product of what Jades-nii did."
Elfnein gently caressed his hand, easing the tension in his body. She learned on his arm, and he laid his head on top of hers.
"Back then, you came to me, confused about your feelings about him. You cared about him, didn't you? About Terunosuke-san."
"I looked up to him. Sure, he was a jerk and never gave us the time of day. But his determination was admirable. It made me want to work just as hard. No matter how never got the results he wanted, he pushed forward. I guess that's what helped me push forward as well. Although...he did try to get me to kill Andreas. So I can't forgive him. No matter what. But still...I understand him a little better now."
"And what about Jades-san? He had the best of intentions in his mind."
"I can't forgive him either. In my opinion, they're both wrong. Jades is a fucking liar that lied to us countless times because he assumed he knew best and Terunosuke is a pompous asshole that thinks he knows better than anyone else around him."
"So ultimately, they think they're right." Elfnein surmied from his little ranting.
"Yeah...I mean...I understand Jades-nii's reasoning but...I can't help but feel like this. Betrayed. Backstabbed. Maria feels the same way. All of these years he kept this from us, making us believe Teru-nii turned evil for no reason. But now we know. Sorry..."
"About what?"
"I know you came to cheer me up, but..."
"I came to check on you because...you're my boyfriend." She blushed profusely."And...I love you, honey..."
"I love you too. Thank you..." He managed a smile, some tears streaming down his face. Elfnein sat up as much as she could, prompting him to lean down as they both kissed. Not as perfect as they would have wanted, but they were getting there.
"I'll return your smile to you." She pumped her fist, full of determination.
"I'm looking forward to it." He chuckled, finding her cuteness to be too much, and pinched her cheeks."So squishy~."
"R-Raiden!"
Hibiki and Hajime collapsed onto his bed, exhausted from the arduous day today.
"Now that I think about it, we haven't really slept, have we?"
"It was an all-nighter. A lot happened after we fought Noble Red and the DDV." Hibiki nodded, rolling over and bringing him closer to her."We'll need some rest if we want to be full of energy tomorrow when we go out with the others."
"You're right. Good thing we convinced Tsubasa-san to tag along." Hajime smiled, his arms traveling underneath Hibiki's shirt, rubbing her bare back and massaging her."Hopefully, she can cheer up too."
"That's the plan." Hibiki muttered, her lips close to his."Is Setsuna home?"
"No. She's hanging out with some school friends today doing some homework." He responded, feeling her breathe due to how close she was.
"It's...been a while since we had some time for ourselves..." She touched his chest."Hasn't it?"
"Yeah...It has." Hajime gulped. Despite the few times they'd gotten intimate with each other, Hajime was never the one to initiate things. It was Hibiki, and it surprised him how pushy she was, despite being just as clueless as he was about these things."Hey...take it easy today, alright? Sometimes you're too much."
"I'll try." She meowled before stealing his lips. They rolled around on the bed, kissing passionately as things slowly progressed. Hibiki did not take it easy. And Hajime was already regretting his decision.
The next day, everyone met up at the mall.
"Not looking too good there." Bragi raised a brow at the couple in front of him. Hibiki looked as jolly as ever, even jumping in place while Hajime looked drained and tired.
"Long night." He said, refusing to elaborate further.
"My goodness, Hibiki. Do you not have any self-restraint?" Miki chastised her."Is that why you didn't come home last night?"
"M-Miku?!"
"What are they talking about?" Elfnein asked her boyfriend.
"You don't want to know..." Raiden shook his head.
"How peculiar." Tobias was equally perplexed.
"You'll understand one day, lad!" Thor guffawed inside his head, making the Autoscorer more confused.
"You better not have hurt Hibiki-onee-chan!" Setsuna stomped on her brother's foot, causing him to yelp."You said you guys were sparring before, right? That's why you had those bruises around your neck! You better not have done the same to her!"
"B-bruises?!" Miku gasped.
"It's a misunderstanding!" Hajime protested before he glared at Setsuna."Watch how you phrase stuff!"
"What do you mean? That's what you were doing, right?" She innocently asked.
"Yeah...For sure."
"Hey, guys! Sorry for the wait!"
The group noticed Despia, Shiori, and Yomi walking up to them, the male twin holding a big grin as he let go of Shiori's hand."I hope we didn't keep you waiting long."
"Not at all." Miku shook her head."Glad you could make it."
Despia held out her notebook."Thanks for inviting us."
"Despia-san! I like the outfit today!" Setsuna beamed at her cousin.
The female magician smiled, patting her head.
"So..." Yomi scanned around."What's on the agenda today?"
"Well, it's early." Hajime checked his phone."How about we get some breakfast? There's a pretty neat pancake place around here."
"Sounds good." Hibiki agreed. The group embarked on their journey and idle chat started almost immediately. Hajime and Bragi trailed behind them.
"Thanks," Bragi muttered.
"Hmmm? For what?"
"Sticking up for me back then." He clarified."When we were fighting Angelo."
"Oh." Hajime's eyes lit up."Don't worry about it. It wasn't fair that he was just berating you with stuff. I was a victim of Bragard too. So if anyone knew what Angelo was feeling, it was me."
"I see." Bragi put his hands in the pockets of his jacket."Still...you called me Dienheim."
"I did."
"But you've been calling me hellspawn ever since we met."
"...That's true."
"What changed?"
Hajime pondered on that question for a minute before he answered."I guess...I understand how you feel as well."
"Me?"
"You feel guilty, don't you? For the stuff that Bragard did to these guys." He spared a glance toward the hybrid."I felt the same way when I found out my Dad was the one who helped Bragard with the Decks. So I understand what it's like to carry the sins of your Father. Besides..."
He looked ahead, watching as Miku and Hibiki were giggling with each other, conversing.
"I think we have to put a stop to the cycle of hatred. We've been fighting so many bad guys I kind of lost count. So I figured...why not strive to stop the origin?"
"Origin?"
"The cycle of hatred. I think...people understanding each other is possible. We just have to overcome that hate." He smiled."If we can get over our hate, then maybe the world has a chance, don't you agree?"
"You make a fair point..." Bragi agreed."Fine. Then let us get rid of our hate then, Hajime Adachi. But don't think this means I'll let you get ahead of me."
"I wouldn't have it any other way, Bragi Third Dienheim."
Later in the day, the group had booked a room for karaoke and were currently listening to Elfnein and Yomi sing together.
"They're really into this..." Raiden muttered to Shiori.
"Yomi loves to sing." She giggled.
"But then again..." Raiden glanced around the room and noticed some people were not feeling as energetic as the current singers.
"Are they singing bad or something, Tsubasa-san?" Hajime asked the bluenette sitting next to him."I guess for an idol, amateurs like them don't hold a candle to you."
"No, no. It's not that." She shook her head."I didn't know what to do with my free time, so I decided to take you guys up on your offer. But...I guess I just can't forget what happened. I keep thinking that I should be sharpening my skills instead of being here."
"That's not true..." Hibiki's gaze softened.
"Ever since that day, I haven't been able to stop shaking." Tsubasa hugged herself."I let all of those people die...And I couldn't do anything to prevent Yosuke from having his body taken over and used to massacre them...And then...Goro..."
"Oh, crap! I forgot I have to meet with a classmate right now!" Yomi tossed the microphone to Setsuna."Cover for me, will you, cousin?"
"S-sure!" Setsuna was all too happy to take her spot, joining in on the singing as she and Elfnein began to dance around.
"You're the best!" Yomi winked at them.
"Are you sure you're okay, Despia-san? I mean...I don't want you to be uncomfortable. Seeing as how we're in a karaoke place and well..." Tobias trailed off.
Despia shook her head, writing something in her notebook."It's completely fine. I love hearing people sing. It relaxes me. So don't feel bad. I'm enjoying myself."
Yomi waved at his friends before leaning closer to his sister."You ready?"
She nodded silently, earning a chuckle from him. The young man exited the room, noticing Bragi and Miku talking next to the door.
"Oh. Sorry. Don't mind me." Yomi chuckled.
"Going somewhere?" Bragi asked.
"Yeah. I promised a friend I was going to meet up with him to help him carry some things to his house. He's moving, so he's buying furniture and wanted to get some seats for his living room."
"That sounds nice." Miku smiled."See you later, Yomi-san!"
"Take care!" The blonde waved at them before he made his way out of the mall.
Bragi took a deep breath, but this only lasted for a second before Miku folded her arms again."So are you going to answer me or not? What is it that you're keeping to yourself that you can't tell me?"
"It's really nothing, Miku-san. I told you I'm fine-"
"You're lying!" Miku snapped, startling the monochrome-haired boy."Why are you lying to me?"
"W-why do you think I'm lying?"
"Because your expression and your eyes are telling me all I need to know." Miku frowned."I know you're hurting inside...but you don't want to say anything because you think it's somehow your fault. I know you."
"I guess nothing escapes you..." Bragi chuckled dryly.
"Is it about the enemies you're fighting?"
Bragi sighed."It is. But...I don't want you to get involved in this, okay? You shouldn't have to go through this too. It's my burden to carry."
"It's not fair..."
"Huh?"
"It's not fair for you to suffer alone!" Miku raised her voice, catching the attention of a few people walking by but she didn't care."I told you I wanted to help you and understand you. I want you to count on me if you need a shoulder to lean on. Why are you always so determined to blame yourself for everything?"
"Why do you want to help me so badly? What did I ever do to deserve your kindess?" Bragi scowled."I really...I really don't..."
"I know what it's like to blame yourself for something..." Miku lowered her gaze."I'm the reason Hibiki is doing all of this. I invited her to a concert that I never even went to and ever since then, she's had to risk her life to save the world...So I understand..."
"Miku-san...But why? I told you I can handle it, so why do you-"
"You're so dense! IT'S BECAUSE I LOVE YOU!"
Several people gasped upon hearing the love confession. But Bragi's brain started to malfunction, his mouth mimicking a fish out of the water.
"Y-you what?"
"I love you." She repeated, this time more softly."You're so smart, determined, faithful, protective, and selfless. And I want to make you happy. You say you don't deserve it, but I say otherwise. I want to make you happy if you'd allow me."
"Miku-san...I...I don't know. I mean...Look at me." Bragi averted his gaze."I don't think a girl as kind as you should waste her time on someone like me. I'm a mess."
Miku deflated, a few tears streaming down her cheeks."I see...Maybe you're right. Maybe...this can't work. I tried helping someone before and I failed. Maybe I'll just fail again. I'm sorry I brought this up."
"Miku-san, wait-"
Suddenly, the door opened, and Despia, Shiori, and Setsuna were exiting the room. The younger girl was squeezing her legs shut, clearly panicking.
"What's...going on?" Shiori asked."Did we interrupt something?"
"No, nothing." Miku shook her head."Where are you guys going?"
"Well, Setsuna-chan needs to use the restroom. So we're all having a little trip there." Shiori briefly explained."Are you sure you're-"
"We're fine," Miku said, walking past her and into the room. Bragi followed close behind and sat down next to Hajime.
"Is everything okay?" Hibiki inquired, noticing how tense both of them were.
"It's fine. We were just talking."
"It seems like it wasn't just talking." Tsubasa pursed her lips."Did something happen?"
"Let's just leave it alone for now, Tsubasa-dono," Bragi said, not wanting to elaborate further. Before anyone could ask more questions, their communicators went off. Hibiki had her hand in her purse already, so she took out hers and answered."It's Hibiki. Tsubasa-san, Elfnein-chan, Tobias-kun, Hajime, Raiden and Bragi-kun are with me."
"As SONG is currently being investigated, I will be issuing your combat directes as a representative of the investigation team."
Tsubasa snatched the phone away from Hibiki."Very well. What are our orders?"
"Alca-Noise and Mirror Monsters have been detected in Area 32. Units SG-01, SG-03, Kamen Rider Alternative, Kamen Rider Raia, and Kamen Rider Ryuki are to engage and eliminate the enemy.
"Oh, fuck!" Hajime quickly dialed Setsuna's number and the girl picked up."Setsuna! Where are you?!"
"Despia-san and Shiori-san are taking me somewhere safe! There are Noise outside!"
"Okay! I'll be right there as soon as I'm done! Tell the girls to keep you safe in the meantime!"
"Okay, Haji! Be careful!"
Without wasting more time, the group exited the cafe and noticed the civilians running for their lives and the Noise and Mirror Monsters wreaking havoc.
"I'll take the girls and Tobias somewhere safe," Bragi said.
"Got it. You got any Seal Cards on you?"
"Never leave home without them." Bragi grinned. They split up, but before they started running, he turned to Miku."Miku-san...can we talk later?"
"Okay..." Miku muttered softly, already feeling bad for her earlier outburst. He grabbed her hand, and she grabbed Elfnein who grabbed Tobias.
"Stay close to me!"
However, as soon as they crossed the first street, a black figure landed in front of them, shaking the ground.
Bragi gritted his teeth, standing protectively in front of them.
Nightmare stood tall, glaring at Bragi and not saying a single word.
"What the hell?" Bragi muttered before glancing over his shoulder shoulder."Miku-san! Take them somewhere safe! I'll catch up in a minute!"
"Okay! Don't do anything reckless!" Miku pleaded before she continued running in another direction with Elfnein and Tobias.
"So...you're not a Noise or a Mirror Monster. So what are you?"
Nightmare said nothing and did not move a muscle.
"Not much for words, huh? I can respect that!" Bragi opened a magic circle beside him, shooting a dark blade from it. However, Nightmare opened a magic circle identical to his, shooting his own projectile and blocking the sword.
Bragi's eyes widened in shock."No way...You have Broken Alchemy too? But that's impossible-"
He did not have time to finish his sentence since Nightmare kned him in the chest, sending him crashing through several buildings.
The hybrid groaned in pain, sitting up and glaring at the silent fighter.'Something is off. What is this guy?'
He pulled out his Deck, his V Buckle materializing around him before shouting."Henshin!"
Once his armor covered his body, he took a fighting stance."Alright, round 2 it is!"
He increased his gravity, going for a right hook but Nightmare was quick to counter, raising his fists and both fighters connected their attacks. Bragi felt some kind of electricity flowing through his body before his mind was filled with a memory.
It was of him back when he was still in his pod and hadn't been released into the world.
"He's growing up splendidly, isn't he? He'll make for a good body replacement."
'Wait...that's...the Second's voice?'
"You don't seem too happy, Carol."
"Why would I be happy after you use my DNA to mix with yours and form this new life just so you can use him as a vessel?"
'That's my Mama's voice!' He didn't know Carol's voice, but he had heard it in his memories before. As well as when he thought he heard it when he was fighting S. Ryuki.
"It's all part of the process, my dear Carol. He'll do great things. You'll see."
He shook his head, coming back to his senses before he used his gravity to launch Nightmare away.'Were those...memories? But why did I see them just now? They never came to me unannounced like this...'
Nightmare stood back up again, black tendrils emerging from within his sleeves.
'Dark Matter...but why does he have it...?'
Suddenly, the being came to a stop as if he was listening to someone speak. He suddenly retrieved his tendrils before jumping into the air, leaping from building to building.
'He just left? It looked like someone was talking to him. Maybe he got orders to retreat?' Alternative then gasped.'Oh no! I have to go save Miku-san and the others!'
Meanwhile, Hibiki and the others were fighting off the Alca-Noise and Mirror Monsters invading the streets. The Riders were focusing on the Mirror Monsters, using their Seal Cards to seal the mirrors and prevent more from coming out.
Advent: Dragreder
The red dragon descended from the heavens shooting fireballs at the Mirror Monsters whom Ryuki couldn't concentrate on.
"There has to be someone behind this!" Ryuki grunted, kicking a Mirror Monster into an Alca Noise.
"I agree!" Hibiki slammed her fist against a Noise before jumping in place, giving a spiral kick, and slamming a Mirror Monster to the ground.
Tsubasa kept on singing, fighting her own battle, focusing only on following orders and cleaning the streets of their enemies.
"Remember, you are all to refrain from using any unauthorized weapons."
Tsubasa scowled but didn't object to the order.
Raia continued circling the skies on top of Evildiver, destroying any aerial enemy he could find while also scanning for any of Noble Red or DDV who could be controlling the Noise and Mirror Monsters.
"Are you positive you've thoroughly checked the area for any hostiles?" Raia placed a hand next to his helmet.
"No other hostiles other than Alca-Noise and Mirror Monsters have been detected in your area."
"It makes no sense. Alca Noise and Mirror Monsters don't just pop out on their own."
"I repeat, we've already analyzed the surrounding area and found nothing out of the ordinary. Kamen Rider Raia, limit yourself to eliminating the enemy and follow your orders. If you do not comply, your combat permit will be revoked and you will be taken into custody."
"Fucking hell..." Raia sighed, annoyed.
"No luck," Hibiki muttered. She had been listening to the conversation in hopes of finding a cause for all of this.
"This lady is really pissing me off," Ryuki grumbled, concentrating his anger into his fist and punching through a Mirror Monster.
"Don't worry. We're taking charge of the operation." Came the voice of Aoi, much to their delight.
"Aoi-san!"
"Missed us?" Sakuya chuckled."Fortunately, the Commander managed to get a court order to call the investigation off. But no sign of the lead investigator."
"So there is something fishy going on..." Hajime mumbled to himself."We should probably let Tsubasa-san know-"
However, Tsubasa had not been listening to the conversation and focused solely on destroying her enemies. She mowed down through the countless Noise, doing a hand spin and unfolding the blades at her ankles, cutting through them like butter.
"Tsubasa-san is really aggressive today," Raia remarked from above, taken aback by her ferocity.
'I'll never...EVER LET THAT TRAGEDY HAPPEN AGAIN!' Tsubasa screamed to herself, completely eviscerating a horde of Mirror Monsters with her katana.
"I wonder about that..."
Tsubasa gasped, raising her head to see Millaarc standing on top of a building, smirking at her."Y-you! YOU FIEND!"
Blue Flash
Tsubasa swung her blade, releasing a slash of blue energy that cut through a building Ryuki was standing on, causing it to start collapsing."W-woah! What the fuck?!"
"Tsubasa-san?!" Raia saw Tsubasa going berserk, swinging her blade with anger and destroying everything in her path. He was about to stop her, but he noticed a huge Alca-Noise in the air and decided to prioritize it."Hajime! Hibiki! Stop her! I'll handle the Noise!"
Final Vent: Venom Hide
Meanwhile, Ryuki rushed over to Tsubasa in hopes of stopping her, but she saw him coming."You!"
"Huh?! Me?"
She lunged at him, swinging her katana, forcing the Rider to block with his gauntlet."H-hey! What's wrong, Tsubasa-san?! It's me! Hajime!"
She raised her fist, ignoring him and aiming to punch him, but he grabbed her wrist and held her in place."I'LL MAKE YOU PAY FOR WHAT YOU DID!"
"W-what do you mean?!" Ryuki was utterly confused."It's me! Don't you recognize me, Tsubasa-san?!"
"Hajime! Hold her!" Hibiki cried out.
Hajime nodded, tightening his grip on her hands and allowing Hibiki the opportunity she needed to come up from behind and chop Tsubasa on her neck, knocking her out, a trick Genjuro had taught her before. The dragon-themed Rider caught her in his arms, gently setting her down on the floor.
"What happened?! Are you guys okay?!" Raia flew over to the couple, jumping off his monster.
"Yeah, we're fine..." Ryuki said, kneeling next to Tsubasa."But...something happened to Tsubasa-san..."
Despia, Shiori, and Setsuna continued running from danger, entering a secluded alleyway in hopes of finding a safe place to hide.
"Oh, no!" Setsuna gasped when she noticed they reached a dead end."No place to run!"
"W-what do we do?" Shiori trembled."S-should we head back where we came from?"
Despia looked calm, but her face had a hint of sadness to it. Something that Setuna was easily able to pick up.
"Despia-san...?"
"I'll get you...to your...brother." The blonde girl bent her knees, clearing her throat."I'm...sorry..."
"Huh? Sorry for what-"
Out of nowhere, Yomi appeared and grabbed Setsuna by her face, covering her mouth before slamming her into a wall.
"Y-Yomi?!" Shiori cried out."What are you doing?! Drop her right now!"
Setsuna trembled like a leaf, unable to comprehend what was going on or why he had done that to her.
"Good job, Despia. You did well." Yomi snickered, leaning closer to Setsuna's face."Now, as for you...Despia said she'd get you to your brother. But she didn't say which one.
Setsuna's eyes shot wide open and she began to kick her legs, hoping to break free. But this only served to annoy Yomi.
"Don't fight it. It'll only hurt more if you do."
Without warning, Yomi turned on his runes and electrocuted the girl. The youngest Adachi couldn't even scream due to her mouth being covered, but every inch of her body hurt like never before as Yomi mercilessly shook her with his lightning. Once she stopped squirming, he deactivated his electricity, noticing steam coming off her body. He released his hold on her and she fell to the floor, her body spasming.
"Yomi...!" Despia croaked.
"Relax. She's good. I only made it so that she can't move for now. She's conscious though, so she can hear us just fine. I think I went a little too hard on her so she must be in a lot of pain. That's why her body is twitching like that."
"Y-Yomi! How could you...? What's...going on...?" Shiori took a few steps back in fear. Yomi slowly turned to face her with a wicked grin.
"How unlucky for you, Shiori-chan. But I can't leave any witnesses alive. You were pretty fun though. Don't worry. I'll take really good care of your friends."
"Run..."
Something in Shiori screamed at her to run and she ran. But she didn't make it very far. She didn't even notice that she was dead the moment the lighting strike pierced her head, killing her instantly. Her body fell to the ground, blood splattering everywhere.
Setsuna saw the whole thing but couldn't move. All she could do was cry silently before passing out from the shock.
"Why...?" Despia asked, grabbing her aching throat.
"Why? We can't leave any loose ends, sister. You know that. Besides, I got bored of her already. She's a good fuck, but her goody-two-shoes attitude is kind of lame. It's better to break that type of girl down rather than anything else."
"But...But you said-"
He suddenly backhanded her across her face, almost breaking her nose. The girl gasped but Yomi grabbed her neck, slamming her against the wall.
"I said I would consider leaving her alive. I didn't think she'd come with you guys. But we couldn't afford to leave her alive. You know how it is. Orders from Hazuki. It was either a quick death or...worse." He scowled, tightening his grip on her neck."You've been too vocal lately. All you ever do is say stupid shit."
Despia whimpered, struggling to breathe.
"I don't know why you never defend yourself. Your crystals can negate my lighting since they're not good conductors."
He sighed, dropping her on the ground before she started to wheeze.
"But you know, you did a good job today. I was wondering why you kept buying her drinks. You wanted to make her go to the bathroom so you could trick her." He squatted down, patting Despia on the back."So smart of you, sister. We were lucky Noble Red decided to act, otherwise we'd have to fight. But it all worked out."
Despia slowly raised her head to meet his gaze and he smiled.
"It's okay, Despia. You did a very good thing today. You're very smart, you know? We were able to pull this off because of you. With this, we're one step away from salvation." He shifted his attention to Shiori's corpse."She'll be revived in the new world Hazuki is planning. So there's no need to feel sad for her. You did her a favor by taking her out of this wretched world we live in. So stand proud. You did well."
The female twin smiled, nodding at her brother.
"Anyway..." Yomi noticed how quiet it had gotten."Guess they're done fighting the Noise and Mirror Monsters. We should get going and-"
He noticed the yellow puddle that had formed underneath Setsuna's body.
"Guess you gave her too much lemonade. She pissed herself."He shuddered in disgust."God damn it. I don't want to carry her."
Out of nowhere, Nightmare landed a few meters away from them.
"Oh, cool. There you are, Nightmare. Did you have fun?" He asked, receiving no reply from the masked man."Good, good. Anyway, mind carrying her back to the base?"
Nightmare obeyed, bending down and grabbing Setsuna by her shirt.
"With this, part 1 of the plan is done." Yomi grinned triumphantly."Things can finally get interesting from now on."
Meanwhile, Miku, Elfnein, and Tobias ran down an alleyway, but Elfnein accidentally tripped over her feet and fell.
"Elfnein!" Tobias was quick to go to her help, but a chuckle caught his attention.
"So Elfnein was the one who screwed up, huh? I can live with this." Millaarc grinned maliciously.
"Oh, no..." Tobias yelped at the sight of the vampire girl.
"I won't let you hurt my friends!" Miku stood in front of them protectively, acting as their shield.
"Miku-san! You can't!"
"So, a little hero, huh? That's cute." Millaarc guffawed.
"But this works to our advantage. I didn't think it'd be so easy to get them to leave HQ." The lead inspector appeared from the shadows, a creepy smile plastered on his face.
"W-why are you here...?" Elfnein breathed.
"Who cares?" Millaarc shrugged."My orders were only to secure Elfnein and her little pet project. You two will come in handy. As for the other one...I'm not sure. I can't exactly make that decision on my own."
"Hello, hello~!"
"Vanessa." Millaarc smiled upon hearing her friend's voice.
"Message for you, Millaarc."
"Miku-san, please, take Elfnein and run." Tobias swallowed the lump in his throat.
"W-what?! You can't!" Miku shook her head.
"I might be able to buy a few seconds at most...If I can use Thor's power, as risky as it is..."
"But you might die! Remember, your core is unstable as it is!" Elfnein reminded him."If you use his power, you might just die!"
"I know, but..."
"So that's how it is." Millaarc groaned to herself."Guess I have no choice. Nothing personal...so sorry."
Before she could do anything, she noticed a figure standing at the end of the alley."Oh, fuck."
Elfnein, Miku, and Tobias turned around and were overjoyed to see Alternative who had come to their rescue.
"Bragi-chan!"
"Bragi-kun!"
"Bragi!"
"Don't worry! I came to save you!" Alternative reassured them with a thumbs up."I just need you to stay calm!"
"So Bragard's son is playing hero now?" Millaarc sneered."What a joke. Do you realize how many people your father killed?"
"Maybe...Maybe so...But I'm not like him!" He said with determination, immediately dashing at Millaarc."And I'm going to save the people that I love! So I'm saving you...Auntie, Tobias...Miku!""
"What a coincidence. I feel the same."
Alternative didn't even see Angelo in his demon form coming out of the shadows, grabbing him by the face with his left arm, which was glowing."Dissect."
Taking Angelo's Dissect at point-blank, his head was blown into smithereens immediately, the slash cutting the building next to them in half as it started to collapse. His transformation became undone and he landed on the ground with a thud.
"NOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO! BRAGIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIII!" Miku yelled in utter despair, running over to him. But Angelo slapped her, knocking her out.
"B-Bragi-chan...?" Elfnein couldn't believe her eyes, tears streaming down her cheeks uncontrollably.
"Reina told me a simple stab through the head didn't do the trick. But for sure he's not getting up from having his head blown to pieces." Angelo said, flicking Elfnein in the forehead with such force she was knocked out as well.
Tobias tried to lunge at him but he slammed him on the ground head-first, losing consciousness immediately.
"Oh, yeah. I almost forgot. Sever."
The lead investigator's body was cut into countless pieces, lumps of meat hitting the ground next to Millaarc as it caught on fire to erase all evidence.
"Hey! You got my feet stained with blood!" Millaarc clicked her tongue.
"My bad, babe. Anyway, help me carry one of them back to see base, will ya?"
"Fuck you. You carry them. Next time, let me know you're going to tear someone apart so I can move out of the way."
Angelo groaned, picking up the bodies and standing next to Millaarc as she broke the vial in her hand, teleporting away before the building collapsed, covering Bragi's body and the alleyway entirely.
Hibiki and Hajime stood in front of Shiori's dead body. The cream-haired girl collapsed on her knees and Hajime was quick to embrace her, his mind tuning out her screams of sorrow after seeing one of her best friends dead on the ground.
'What happened here...? Where are Setsuna and Despia...? Did they...?'
Another chapter is done. We're finally getting into the juice parts of this season. We're almost halfway through according to the anime but we still have a long way to go!