Chapter 6: Clash! Meaning of Protector! And True Desire!
Disclaimer: Kamen Rider created by Ishinomori Shotaro while Senki Zesshou Symphogear is licensed by Discotek Media. I gain no profit from this and don't own any of the series, the proof is the lack of official crossover.
The night sky was illuminate with azure flash and eery green light.
OOO waste no time bring out the Medaljalibur and deflect all the energy slashes, making them bite to the ground around them instead. The stray explosions still make Hibiki flinch a bit, but none of it do any real harm to her. She then carefully glance from behind OOO to see both Tsubasa and the Yummy are getting ready for another attack, reluctantly OOO also settle into his battle stance. The Gungnir's wielder bit her lip in thought, she then put herself in front of OOO and face Tsubasa directly much to the Multi Rider surprise.
"Hibiki-chan that's dangerous!" OOO warned.
But Hibiki didn't listen, she once again call out to Tsubasa.
"Tsubasa-san! Stop it please! Why are you attacking Eiji-kun and me!? Aren't we all working together to protect humanity from the Noises!?" Hibiki put all her heart into her words, hoping it would convey her feeling.
But not a second after she finished her sentence, Tsubasa already sprint at the girl with inhuman speed and swing down her blade.
CLANG!
Hibiki's widened her eyes in shock, staring in stunned silenced at the point of the sword. It would only take few inches for the sharp tips to stab at her forehead, If it not for the the Medaljalibur stood in its path. With a push, OOO easily repelled Tsubasa's attack. Partly is because the blue haired girl didn't press on, instead she jump back and land next to the Yummy again.
"Hibiki-chan, I known how you feel right now." OOO said, snapping Hibiki out of her stupor. She look at the Rider who still keep his attention on the Yummy and Tsubasa. "But that exactly why you need to trust me, I will not let the Yummy use Tsubasa nor will I let her do something that she herself will regret." He finished with assurance in his voice.
Hibiki nodded, despite the situation, OOO's words just have that strong of an effect for her. Plus, the girl didn't even entertain the thought that Tsubasa herself is too far gone anyway. But if her voices can't reach her then...
"Song...Maybe if it with my song..." Hibiki thought with mix of excitement and nervousness.
The girl look at her chest, the scar that now hidden from view by the Gungnir's Gear. But then a growl from the Yummy broke her out of that thought, the Yummy has been content with letting Tsubasa fight by herself until now, but that soon will change. With a screech, static gather around it before explode into web of green electricity striking everywhere but where Tsubasa stood.
OOO raise up his sword and blocked the static without much issue, but that was never meant as an attack, rather a signal of what to come next.
The green electricity gathered above the Yummy with a pulling effect, not toward OOO or the Gear Users, but rather the masses of ash from the destroyed Noises. Before the King of Desire and the Gungnir's Inheritor can make sense of the scene in front of them, the masses of ash already mix in together with the green orb of lightning. The Kamakiri then proceed to lift its head up and suck in all the electrified ashes into its mouth, or at least Hibiki assumed it a mouth, considering the monster didn't even open it. But the ashes did went in, and within seconds the mantis themed monster have inhaled all of it.
Deafened silence follow, since both OOO and Hibiki didn't said anything, only paying rapt attention to the Yummy.
"CREC!"
Another loud shriek, follow by another burst of electricity come out from it, but this time instead of stray shots, the energy is focused onto its scythes hands. The Yummy swung it edged limbs, the green bolt of energy shot straight at OOO. Who in response, dash forth and swing down his blade with all his might, fully intent to disperse the attack.
But much to his alarm, OOO find himself got pushed back despite being able to deflect the same attack moment prior! Unable to hold it back forever, the bolt of energy finally exploded in a shower of spark and send the Rider skidding back with slight smoke linger on his armor and sword.
"Eiji-kun!" Hibiki out in worry.
She run toward OOO just as he managed to brace himself.
"I'm fine Hibiki-chan, it is nothing." OOO said in assurance as that attack really didn't affect him that much. "But still that was clearly a stronger hit than before." The Rider admitted as he held up his sword in fighting stance while keeping a cautious gaze on the Kamakiri. "As expected then...the Yummy really did..."
Before he can finish his sentence the Yummy let out another shriek as its body undergo change with its scythes now grow bigger and bug wings made out of Noises colors spread out on it back.
"That thing...really absorbed the Noises..." Hibiki said in shock, looking at the transformation.
Tsubasa, not budging an inch by what transpiring right next to her, fall into her sword stance, her blade lit with azure energy.
Opening: Synchrogazer!
Image: OOO and Tsubasa cross their sword, with the former's blade show the reflection of a somber Hibiki and latter's show a smiling Kanade. Both reflection clad in their own version of Gungnir Symphogear.
Once again, Hibiki find herself being shielded by other. As OOO keep deflecting the relentless assault of sword and scythes from the unstable Tsubasa and her Yummy. The Rider try his best to parry all the attacks from both of them, using his Medaljalibur along with the Tora Claw not letting any stray hit reach Hibiki. But given the fact that he has to protect Hibiki, not willing to direct attack Tsubasa and on constant defense, this mean the Rider is keep getting pushed back in the exchange.
Eventually it leave an opening for the Yummy, the monster swing both of its scythe upward breaking OOO's defense stance for split second. Which was more than enough for Tsubasa to deliver multiple slashes, with speed seems like a blur to a human eyes, at his chest. Spark shot out follow each slash and by the fifth slash, Tsubasa and the Yummy in perfect sync go for a stab.
The Rider only have a split second to quickly push Hibiki out of the way, knowing her Gear would protect her, he has no qualm push her to a far distance.
Hibiki can only let out a startled gasp, by the time she regain her bearing, she saw the sword and scythe coat in blue and green static respectively strike at OOO's heart.
The Rider didn't stumble back. He was send flying! And to top it off is the resulting explosion that swallowed OOO before spitting him out violently.
OOO then crashed and tumbled to the asphalt pavement. True to its power, the OOO's armor held strong, but that doesn't mean inside of it, OOO didn't feel like his innards got switched around in a brutal fashion. Not to mention, beside the smoke still sizzling out of his armor, there is a a signed line on his armor right where his heart is.
Hibiki quickly run to OOO's side, her words of concern die in her throat when she see how damaged the armor is, specifically the heart's area. The Rider himself groaned in pain for a few seconds before he push himself up.
"Eiji-kun! Don't push yourselves!" Hibiki called out out in worry.
The girl bit her lips in frustration, Hibiki known if it not for shielding her, OOO would have more than enough time to dodge those attack just now even if he couldn't counterattack Tsubasa. She tried to support him, but OOO already stood up on his own. The moment he did, he give her a quick up and down look.
"Hibiki-chan, are you hurt?" OOO asked, when the girl shook her head quietly, he let out a sigh of relief. "That's good then, that's what mattered most."
Hearing this, something inside Hibiki cracked.
Sure Miku have chided her as someone who always put other before her first but...how could Eiji just risk his life like it nothing? Because of her? Was she worth it? Back then as Hino Eiji, he was there for her along with her families and Miku. Now as OOO, he has to endanger his life for her. Hibiki understand no matter how strong he is, if he keep defending her and not fight back he will be struck down either by that monster or Tsubasa herself.
"He would risk his life for me...just like with Kanade-san...that's why she isn't here helping Tsubasa-san...a person important to Tsubasa was hurt so badly because of me..."
As all that thought go through Hibiki's mind in just a second, she look back at Tsubasa who still has that dark smirk and look like she just want to rip the cream haired girl's heart out. But why wouldn't she? Is it not because of her that right now instead of Kanade being next to the bluenette, it is that monster? Why didn't she realized it sooner.
"I see...so it had indeed been my fault since the beginning eh?" Hibiki said with a smile that just rang all kind of alarm in OOO's head, that pained and depressed smile, no not even a smile, shouldn't appear on her face. An expression void of joy and full of loathing, she then walk toward Tsubasa. "Don't worry Eiji-kun, I will resolve the trouble I created in the first place." Hibiki said with strange calmness, almost resigned.
She then walk forward, to the waiting blade that want nothing more than to be taint in her blood.
The 2nd Division is in uproar, not even Sakurai Ryoko can keep her bubbling attitude. After all, on the screen it is showing Kazanari Tsubasa all but ready to kill a young girl in cold blood. There could be no other interpretation of the blue haired girl actions, it is more clear for those with battle experience, namely Kazanari Genjuro and Ogawa Shinji. The two of them can tell right away, there is genuine bloodlust in the swordstresses's strike, with no hesitation whatsoever. She really will kill Tachibana Hibiki if given the chance, and with the gap of skills between the two of them factor in the fact the cream haired girl wouldn't have put her guard up. It would have happened in an instance with no chance of intervention if OOO hasn't been there.
When the Division heard Ankh's explanation of the Yummy's origin, they couldn't help but look in disbelief, at the monster that supposed to be Tsubasa's desire given form. Not to mention its act of devouring the Noises to gain more power. All of them tried to contact Tsubasa, especially Genjuro. But no matter how much he shout out her name, it all amounted to nothing. Their words fall on deaf ear as the Ame no Habakiri's wielder still mercilessly attack OOO and Hibiki.
This leave Ankh silently stare at the screen analyzing the situation.
"The Yummy...maybe being spawned from Poseidon has let it carry the trait of crave for destruction, giving it the abilities to absorb the Noises. Tch! As a pseudo Greeed that once hold all the Core Medals it is not impossible for him to do so."
Ankh then caught the sight of Genjuro, his expression hardened, it didn't giveaway his composure, but Ankh can see his fist gripping tight. The red haired man turn around and made his way to the elevator, of course this didn't go unnoticed by other people in the room.
"Commander! Where are you going?" Aoi asked in worry.
With the current situation, they can't risk to operate without their leader, but the red haired man is dead set on helping his niece snap out of it. Before his hand can press the elevator's button though, Ankh out of nowhere grabbed the reaching limb and stop him in his track.
"Let go." Genjuro said, his words carry steel in them, anyone lesser would have easily stumble in front of such pressure. For Ankh, this gain some of the Greeed's approval. "I have to snap her out of it before she do anything she regret." Genjuro said.
The man is clearly losing all hint of his easy going attitude but Ankh didn't budge, if anything he tightened his grip.
"If you go out there now it will make thing harder for Eiji, there are chance you will withhold your strike against your niece. And she doesn't seems to be aware enough right now to recognize you, that go double for the Yummy having no qualm of going for the killing blow. You will only end up as another dead weight for Eiji." Ankh spoke calmly.
The Greeed's tone suggest he barely care of the situation transpiring, lowered it credibility to Genjuro. The man yanked his hand free and look at Ankh with a sharp gaze, the mask of the Commander in control cracked for an understandable situation. If anything, Ankh would be distrust of the Commander if he show no trace of emotion for what happening.
"So you said I should just stand here and watch my niece commit murder in her blind rage? To kill another person being? How could I answer to Kanade-kun? How could I ever face Tsubasa again if I let her do that?!" Genjuro raised his voice.
The man's tone dared Ankh and by extension anyone in the room to argue with him. Not a voice of oppression but of compassion and righteous, some of his fellow man have pointed out while fine traits, if not keep in check might hinder Genjuro's judgment as the Commander. While it maybe true, Genjuro certainly never see that effect. And right now it grant him the unknown benefit of Ankh slightly open up to the idea of tolerate the man for future conversations. Which is a big step, really.
But the problem right now is none of the other staff can rebuke to him. They themselves don't known what to do too, even Ryoko can only look on grimly, could they suggest the intervention of the military and other branch of government? That might just make the matter more complicated and give said other brand the chances they wish to confiscate the Symphogear for their own gain. But the idea of just letting their Commander who call all the shot to bring himself to battle and leave the spot empty is outrageous, doesn't matter if they all know of Genjuro's incredible combat prowess.
It is when they struggling with their remaining options, Ankh replied with a tone of conviction and confidence that gain everyone attention.
"Who said she will? He is right there isn't? I will only said this once, so listen carefully." Despite possess no eyes, Genjuro feel a powerful confident gaze bore into him. "Right now Hino Eiji is there. I'm willing to bet that right now in the whole world, you can't find someone who is dumber and better to be there than him. Rest assured, your niece's hand won't stain with any blood, that idiot would never let that happen. So focus on your job as this Division's leader, right now that's what you can and need to do." Ankh spoke leaving no room for argument.
Everyone look in surprise as the sudden change of tone from the Greeed. It contain absolute trust, confidence and ooze with an aura that a being consist only of a limb shouldn't be able to exude. Not to mention, it isn't hard for someone to draw a conclusion from Ankh's demeanor that he a realists to an extreme, prioritizing himself first and foremost, which isn't too far but not the entire truth either, so what he just said of course come off as unexpected.
But what matter is that Genjuro can't detect a hint of deceit in those words at all, it actually make him believe the chance of Eiji being able to resolve this problem. And now that he has calm down, he also realize how true Ankh's words have been and so with a reluctant sigh he took step back.
"But if it seems there a chance he can't do it then I will go out there no matter what. If that's happen, for your own sake please don't stand in my way." Genjuro said.
The Commander spoke with a controlled tone despite the weight his words carry that Ankh can feel clearly. This is not a vocal pressure, rather Ankh is feeling genuine power weighing down on him, coming from the red haired man.
"Hm. The world really is big." Ankh thought.
He know the man before him is powerful, not just in political or military strength, rather his own being contain great strength. If his world surprised him with its 800 years of advancement ever since his slumber, then this world in front of him certainly surprised him with this human. Is it an exception? Or there are more to such a case? Can human in this world attain powers in different way beside their Symphogears and conventional weapons? Right now it not the priorities but it seems there are more research Ankh will need to do.
"Heh, don't bother worry for something that won't happen then." Ankh simply said, falling back to his default snarky tone.
He then look back at the monitor while Genjuro do the same, Ryoko herself now also look at it especially the image of OOO with glint of interest.
"Well now...how would you answer these expectations, Eiji-kun? Show me if you are indeed a box full of tricks." Ryoko thought, her expression unreadable.
"Of course, I didn't said anything in the past few minutes, understood?" Ankh's tone leave no doubt if it is a request or not.
The heat in his voice that actually make them shudder for a moment, beside they have enough trouble on their hands already, so the 2nd Division come to an unanimous agreement.
Playing Symphogear OST Shoujo no Uta ni wa, Chi ga Nagarete iru
Back to the battle, Hibiki just walk toward Tsubasa without any hint of fear for her life. She stopped about few feet away from Tsubasa, the blue hair girl steeled expression have a mixture of minor curiosity of the cream haired girl actions. Even the Yummy ceased its movement, for now. Its crouched stance show that it ready to pounce at Hibiki any moment notice, not that the cream haired girl even seems to care.
"Tsubasa-san, I am sorry." Hibiki said, for a moment it seems Tsubasa's cold expression twitched. "I never try to understand what pain I have caused for you, yet here I am spouting all these ignorant words of replacing your partner, Kanade-san." Hibiki said, withheld a hitch in her throat. "W..when it was because of me that you are alone. Because of someone like me, who can only rely on other for help that I was able to survive till now. Because of that I thought the least I could do is keep moving forward for them, but this too...is an excuse for me leisurely live a life I gained through other's sacrifice." She said with a tone of resignation.
The girl's fingers traced the spot where the scar was, before it turn to a tight grip, as if she want to dig her digits deep into the tissue.
"Tsubasa-san, if it will atone for the sins I caused, for Kanade-san that can't sing with you anymore, then do whatever you want to me." Hibiki said, with a relaxed smile, a usual beautiful smile turned to something bizarre because of the current situation. The cream haired girl remember, how the exhausted Kanade give her a reassuring smile in the midst of the Noises surrounded them. Even in her dazed hazy mind, that one image still imprint in Hibiki's mind clearly. "And then...please return to the one who happily sang with Kanade-san...the one who bring happiness to other with her song." Hibiki give one last desperate plead.
Tsubasa seems to consider Hibiki's words for a second as her sword arm lowered a bit.
Yet seconds later the tip of the sword is now merely a feet away from Hibiki's chest.
End OST.
CLANG!
And a feet is also the distance the tip of the blade stopped, not because Tsubasa has a second thought, but more due to the fact OOO's right hand is gripping the blade tightly. Spark can be seen from the friction between the blade and the gauntlet due to the tense struggle, and as much as Tsubasa is pushing forward, OOO is not letting the blade gain another inch.
"Eiji-kun! Please stop! I just need to let Tsubasa-san vent her anger for a bit! Then she will return to normal for sure!" Hibiki shouted.
But the tricolor Rider still didn't budge from his position, instead he send a palm strike right at Tsubasa's abdomen making her stagger back then drop to her knee and coughed a few times.
CRACK! BAM!
The sudden sound of impact was followed by slight tremor of the ground.
Tsubasa quickly snapped her gaze back to where OOO and Hibiki was, but all that left is a sizable crack with green static sizzling out of existence. The blue haired swordswoman gritted her teeth, the mantis themed Yummy also chirped out in annoyance.
OOO peek his head out of the corner, when his eyesight reveal to him no one is on to their tail yet, he let out a sigh of relief as he retreat back to the alleyway.
Hibiki herself is slumping down the wall, finding it hard to meet the Rider's gaze.
"Hibiki-chan." OOO called out.
This does it, even if reluctant, she can't help but look at him in the eyes and despite the helmet obstruct his gaze, it not so hard for her to picture a variant expression of disappointment, bewilderment.
"Eiji-kun...I...I trust in Tsubasa-san! If she get a chance to vent her frustration it would have been fine! I believe she wouldn't have really ki- "
TICK!
The flick she receive to her forehead stopped whatever she was going to said.
"Ouch!" Hibiki yelped as she quickly rubbed the sore spot. "E...Eiji-kun? What was that for?"
"Hibiki-chan, why do you think doing that will solve anything? Do you really believed Kazanari-kun would have stopped?" OOO asked.
His question make Hibiki thought over her course of actions, the girl's brows crunched together in frustration.
"Be...Because of me that everything turn out this right!? Kanade-san is in a coma now. And it make Tsubasa-san lost her best friend! All this time she been distance herself, being alone because she didn't want to be reminded of the person she lost! Because her close friend was hurt all for someone like me!"
The girl outright screamed in frustration, she feel like the realization finally hit her full force. The simple fact that Tachibana Hibiki is the cause of Amou Kanade and Kazanari Tsubasa's current situations. Thus this set off a chain of thought making her remember Tsubasa cold and emotionless attitude, it has all been because of her. Even now with Tsubasa being controlled by her own anger, Hibiki can also only see herself as the root of all this problems.
"Amou-kun really did risk her life saved you." OOO's agreement only make the girl lower her head even more. "But isn't that why you tried to live your life as best as you can Hibiki-chan? Or did you forgot about it already?" OOO asked softly.
The girl snap her head up at OOO out of surprise.
"That..." Hibiki muttered quietly.
If it was a day before, no even if it was just an hour ago Hibiki would agree to what OOO said without hesitation. But now seeing Tsubasa like this, it understandably make her feel harder to answer. The cream haired girl can only lean back to the wall and slump down with a sigh.
In turn, OOO also copied her action as he sat down next to her.
Both of them look up, the view in the alleyway obstruct the night sky, but the small gap is just enough for the duo to see few of the stars twinkling above.
"I have known you for a while right Hibiki-chan? Remember I used to said I'm at awe with how you are always so energetic matter what?" OOO asked quietly.
"How could I ever forget those moment?" Hibiki, nodding, thought with a fond smile.
The good memories already helped a bit to lift her spirits up.
"Your positivity in life, your will to always smile no matter what obstacle you face."
"Including what happened after of the event." The words were thought of, yet need not to be speak of.
"That's your way of 'repaying' right, Hibiki-chan? Of being saved." OOO balled his fist as he continue. "Because Amou-kun give you a second chance, you want to live your life with a smile on your face, with resolve to always keep that happy expression no matter what. That's how you have been and even now I don't see how that isn't a good way to repay Amou Kanade. I never get to know her, but surely, the life she want you to live for her, is the life you are most happy with."
After all, to be able to save someone, isn't it natural that's what you would want for them?
"Eiji-kun, I...I just...I feel what happening to Tsubasa-san right now is my fault, I have to do something." Hibiki said with a sad frown on her face.
OOO's hand make a victory sign, he then put it on Hibiki's down curved lips and pushed it gently so now that a smile is on her lips. Despite the gauntlet covered his hand, Hibiki can't stop the heat rushing to her cheek from a brief touch as OOO retracted his hand.
"One fact never change: It is not your fault. Regardless, you want to help Tsubasa-kun right? Then it still the same, reach out for her, not abandon yourself." OOO said with an understanding tone. "It's normal to doubt yourself sometime, is fine to give in to the sadness that weight you down sometimes. It come with being alive, it a proof that you are pushing forward everyday. But by the end of the day Hibiki-chan, remember your own smile." OOO said soothingly. "Your smile, that come from bottom of your heart, that your Mother, Grandmother, Miku-chan, and I love to see. Don't let it be a fake smile for the sake of reassurance, but rather proof." OOO's words surge with energy that seems to pull Hiubiki in. "Proof that your are happy, of being alive, right this instance."
No, rather he reminded her.
Reminded Hibiki why she always greet the world with a bright smile, not because she is ignorant of all that is sad in this world, far from it. Hibiki herself has got a fair share of what harsh reality can bring to one life, and it was not just the attack at the concert. In fact that might just the beginning of the onslaught of misfortune that happened to the girl, but even then she still keep her smile. Because if she lose it, the young girl afraid she might have stained everything Amou Kanade had fought for in some manner.
The Songstress that have face down the army of Noises with a brave smile on her face and sang her song with conviction, all the while protecting her. This one action of being saved awoken something within Hibiki. It finally dawn on her how truly , truly precious one life is. For by protecting her life, Kanade have also protected her future, the bond she has with her families and friends.
Yet right now because of a problem she doesn't known how to solve she basically just gave up? Throwing away the life that was saved by Amou Kanade? No. That's not how Tachibana Hibiki is before and it definitely won't be now! With her mind cleared, the girl give both her cheeks a firm slap of self motivation, then proceed to flash OOO a bright smile to show Tachibana Hibiki is back.
"Yeah...now that the expression of Hibiki-chan I known." OOO said with relief.
After all, It was short but OOO already found himself missing the girl's smile.
Though a thought put a strain on the cream haired girl smile.
"By the way, you flicked my forehead just now." Hibiki said, comical tears start to gather in her eyes. "Eiji-kun, since when were you this mean?" She protested.
In fact this method of reprimand is too familiar...
"Well you were acting funny right?" OOO asked sheepishly, letting out a sigh. "And I promised your grandmother that I will look out for you, which also mean I need to do this," OOO said as he flick his finger to the air for demonstration, which Hibiki instinctively flinch back comically. "If eh...to stop you from doing something...unwise?" OOO said, with a guilty tone.
"Idiotic! He totally was thinking something along the line of idiotic! And I knew it! It is Grandma's deadly reprimand flick!" Hibiki thought dreadfully. "Uwah~ How could she just let Eiji-kun use this on me!? What's wrong with him just watch over me and spoil me only?"
Hibiki's comical thoughts was justified in her opinion, everyone just don't know how painful the flick is!
OOO let out a sigh, as much as he like to keep the easygoing conversation going, they don't have that luxury.
"So, do you think there is anything wrong with what I said Kazanari-kun?" OOO asked with a more neutral tone.
And indeed, as Hibiki follow his gaze and look over the corner and glancing up, she saw it.
"Since when?" Hibiki thought as she feel her heart jumped.
True to OOO's words, standing on one of the rooftop looking down at them, with her back illuminate by the crescent moon of the night was Kazanari Tsubasa. And despite her out of control visage, the girl restrained herself when she heard the discussion was related to Amou Kanade.
Hence OOO decided to take a gamble and keep the conversation going till the end despite the guard he put up. What he said wasn't only for Hibiki but also to see if he can get to Tsubasa, and it seems just like with Hibiki, his words managed to strike a chord within her.
After all, the blue haired swordswoman hasn't moved an inch despite the Kamakiri Yummy clearly showing sign of restlessness, barely containing itself to charge at OOO. Obviously the creature's interest lie in the Core Medals. Nonetheless, Tachibana Hibiki is also a target implemented to its mind by its master.
However all of that is meaningless if its host didn't regain her impulses for her desire. Whose mind right now is struggling, about whether or not she herself is dishonoring the effort of her friend. The desire to spill blood for her partner and the desire to protect for the same partner is tearing mind and emotions apart.
Was what she doing really for Kanade? She is trying to kill the last life that Kanade manage to save before she fall into the coma, doesn't that mean in someway she is trying to destroy the reason that Kanade risked her life in the first place? Isn't what she doing basically throwing dirt at Kanade's effort? At what Kanade fought for? To protect every single life from the Noises? Can she face Kanade after this then? What would Kanade say to her? Will she be grateful? Why? Because she has snuff out the life that Kanade protected at the cost of her songs? When she suppose to fight against the Noises itself? The true culprits for Kanade's condition?
"I...I...I don't know! Why can't I wield my sword without hesitation!?"
"My words alone can't mean much to you, I know. But this is the effort of Amou Kanade, as protector and her friend, are you really fine with letting the Yummy guide your desire?" OOO asked.
And it seems that was the last straw.
"AAAAAHHHHH!" Tsubasa snapped as she swung her sword wildly.
"Eiji-kun, is not a good idea to keep riling Tsubasa-san up like this!" Hibiki warned but OOO shook his head.
"She is confusing, that's fine, it mean she is starting to regain her sense of self! But she still need to calm down." OOO said with certainty.
He rush forth and unfold his claws, skillfully trapped Tsubasa's sword right between the gaps of the claws, keeping its in place.
The Yummy rushed forth, OOO send a quick side kick to the monster, despite the strength behind it, it only make the Yummy stubmled back. Before it can rush it again however...
"Take this!" Hibiki shouted.
...A punch that certainly lacking in stances and performance, but in the end, it doesn't matter. For a surprise punch only one factor is needed, strength. And for that, the Gungnir's fragment in her chest have more than enough to spare.
Thus both OOO and the Yummy shared equal surprise when Hibiki's fist release a burst of orange light, resulting in an impact that throw the Yummy crashing through a truck.
"I won't let it interrupt you, bring Tsubasa-san back, Eiji-kun!" Hibiki told him.
The rush of the situation make the cream haired girl temporarily ignore the unexpected result of her strength just now.
OOO nodded to her as he keep held Tsubasa in place, if he can keep her still for a moment, he can use the chance to destroy the Yummy, that's a best chances to resolve the issues.
Tsubasa still offer resistance, but with how her entire body is shaking, her grip itself is starting to slack, it seems the girl herself is just a step away from dropping down her sword. She is certainly not in any condition to interfere or stop OOO in time.
Now, all the Rider have to do is shove her off with a kick, he will apologize when she regain herself, and execute a TaToBa Kick to the Yummy.
BOOM!
That is if the Yummy didn't jump up, crashing through the roof of the building it was buried under and landed onto the roof. The Kamakiri's chest certainly look somewhat caved in, but beyond the wheezing sound it make, the Yummy still in fighting condition. The matter worsen when its eyes flashed the ominous green energy.
The same green lights that now cover Tsubasa's eyes. The blue haired girl then suddenly let go of her sword as its slip from OOO's claws and clattered to the ground.
"A...A..The song...The...KANADE! KANADE! NOOOOO!" Tsubasa cry out in pain.
The sword wielding songstress clutched her head as she stumbled around, she grip her hair tightly to the point some blue strands can be seen falling off.
Both Hibiki and OOO can only watch in shock not knowing what they can do to help.
The Yummy seems to amplify the effect by scratching its scythes together, leading to a twisted concert composed of the scream from Tsubasa and the ear deafening noise of steel grind steel.
Back to the station, everyone still watching with baited breath. Just when the situation seems to be improving, things just have to take a dive downhill again.
At least now, Genjuro is more composed. Taking back the stance befitting of the Commander he is, the man calmly instructed the Division of what the controlling actions need to be done while the battle is happening. Since unlike at the beginning when he hasn't got the grip on the situation, now there really sign showing Hino Eiji is someone who can resolve this mess. As Commander, if there dangers on the battlefield, he can't recklessly charge in, not without endangering the order of the the entire 2nd Division he is maintaining. Can the red haired Commander bring himself to harm his niece? Can he confidently guard himself without hurting her when she will go at him with intent to kill with disregard to her own safety, given her unstable conditions?
Possibly, but can the 2nd Division, the one ray of hope for humanity against the Noises, afford to take that risk? So for now Genjuro will hold himself back and watch how will Eiji resolve this issue.
"My guts, it telling me to trust you, OOO. But hurry, you won't have all days." Genjuro decided with veins clearly showing on both his fists.
After all, the Division is monitoring the intel for now, but if a Gear User keep rampaging like this? It will only be a matter of time before other government branch got hold of this. And if it happen to be one that want the Symphogears technologies? Then things will go downhill very fast, after all, a reason to confiscate the Gear from 2nd Division would present itself on silver platter to those faction. If it come down to that, Genjuro would no doubt abandon all protocol and get down there himself. His own safety be damned if it mean risking his niece get caught up in the nasty web of political manipulation on top of what she is already dealing with.
And that is not counting the entirely different trouble from his family, sad as it is for Genjuro to admit it. Unlike himself who has resolve to distance himself from his family name. With his relation to his father being superficial at most nowadays, it more like a Commander talking to another top politician of Japan if anything. Tsubasa is still a member of the Kazanari's family, if not deeply involve with it. And despite Tsubasa's devotion, Genjuro known, understanding and concern is the last thing on that man mind if he learn of what happening to Tsubasa.
But there is another severity that only Ankh himself understand.
"So the Yummy also amplifying the negative aspect of her desire too. That's a new nasty trick, should have expected from that fake." Ankh thought with annoyance.
He can clearly see the influence the Yummy has on the girl after all, though this will be good harvest of Cell Medals for him.
Hey, who can blame the Greeed for being an opportunist?
Playing ZeTtoU AMe nO HabAkiRi?
Somehow in the mix of her cry of pain and anguish, Kazanari Tsubasa's song can be heard. However one can argue if it really a song, there was not a single reminder of the famous voice that capture the hearts of many. Instead it was diluted by the swordstresses's scream so much, it was a miracle both Hibiki and OOO can still hear the lyrics she spouting.
"ARGH!"
With an enranged battle cry mix in with the 'song', Tsubasa show further proof of her deranged state. In contrast of the usual graceful swordsman style, the bluenette throw a sluggish right hook at the Rider, who easily dodged the punch.
But that also when the Kamakiri leap down and swing its scythe in cross formation.
OOO held up his claws but the force of the attacks bypassed his guards, knocking him back with spark flied.
Tsubasa despite her unclear mind, still use this chance to pick up her sword and unleash a series of wild slashes that has no pattern or technique in it, all sloppy sword swings that represent how her mind is right now along with the song she singing. One has to wonder if she aware of the stream of tears flow from her eyes right now.
In response to this OOO still ignore her attack and focus more on trading blow with the Yummy, he use his claws to counter each of the Yummy scythe slashes while outright tanking the slashes from Tsubasa. But this prove to be enough of a distraction for him, after all sluggish swing they might be it is still drawing power from a Relic. Thus this give the Yummy a chance to slip pass OOO's defense once more and deal multiple heavy strikes at him. When the Rider grunt in pain and stumble back from those hits, Tsubasa raise up her sword and about to swing down on his neck.
That's when an orange blur tackled her, sending both of them rolling to the ground.
End Song.
After a few roll both of them come to stop with Tsubasa end up being the one pinned down by Hibiki, who use all the strength she never knew she has to keep her hold, her face has a determined expression.
"Stop it Tsubasa-san! This is not how your song is like! Your song is used to protect other and comfort them! That's the song I love to hear you sing! Right now...your song is filled with sadness and tears only, that is not the song Kanade-san would want to hear you sing!" Hibiki yell out pleadingly.
But Tsubasa still thrashing around in her grasp.
Still, with Tsubasa now out of his way, OOO use this chance to retaliate the Kamakiri. Just in time too, since the Yummy is ready to decapitate him with one of it scythes but OOO ducked underneath the swing. Then with a swept kick, making the monster fall down horizontally to the ground. However, before it can even touch the cement road, OOO concentrate the power to both of his Batta legs and gave a mighty dropkick right at the Yummy abdomen, a green shock-wave ignited from the impact, sending the Yummy flying 100 meters away, dragging an entire trail on the road.
With the pile of Cell Medals dropping out from the kicked spot, the Yummy groan in pain as it struggle to stand up.
This seems to has interrupt whatever the influence the Yummy has on Tsubasa as she finally stopped struggle against Hibiki's hold, good thing for the cream haired girl too since she almost lose her grip on Tsubasa with all the struggle and thrashing and the bluie hair girl almost regain the use of her sword. But now with the blue haired girl seems to calm down somewhat Hibiki also able to relax her grip on the girl.
"Tsubasa-san?" Hibiki call out to the girl in worry.
The blue haired girl pained visage has now returned to a blank expression, with the stream of tears flow down from her eyes being the only proof of the emotions she currently feeling.
"What am I suppose to do?" Tsubasa mumbled weakly without any spirit. "I thought I can make myself become a sword to cut down all my enemy, then I won't have to experience the feeling of lost again. But in the end I ca't tell what have I become anymore." She then let out a depressed chuckle. "Look at me, which part of me suppose to look like a sentinel sword? I let my emotions get the better of me, in the end I have not change one bit from that idiotic and useless girl who can only watch her friend sacrifice herself. I even try to destroy the proof of Kanade's effort, I really am worthless eh?" Tsubasa asked, though the question clearly aim at herself.
Hibiki want to comfort her but momentarily doesn't known what to said to hopefully restore the spirit for blue haired girl, after all despite regain her spirits, Hibiki still worry if she can speak of any subject regard to Amou Kanade.
"I don't see what's wrong with that." OOO interjected with a lighthearted tone as he approach them. Tsubasa sat up as she gave a confused look at the Rider. "Does it really matter that you can become an emotionless sword or not? Even if you can I don't think that's what Amou-kun would want."
"And how would you known that?" Tsubasa asked, her tone while blank still held a bit of defensive in it.
"Of course, I can't claim to know someone I have not known of." OOO spoke with a shrug. "But, isn't natural? For someone like Amou-kun, who risk her life so other can live their. Would she want her friend to live a life as an emotionless tool?" OOO asked with a confidence that startled Tsubasa as she widen her eyes listen to his words. "She would want you of all people to live your life to the fullest, to feel all it can offer despite the hardship you might face. Is it not true that till the very end, Amou-kun herself still keep a smile on her face when she face down that army of Noises and ready sing her Swan Song?" OOO said with an understanding, sympathize tone.
So understanding and confident OOO's tone was, it almost as if he voicing out his own thought instead of Kanade's.
But is it really that strange? After all, back then even if he lacked the powers, even if he can't take the same actions as Kanade, what they both wish for was identical. That's why in some way, OOO can never outright dismiss Kanade's actions. For if instead of the concert hall, it had been at that village, where his regret never leave him. If it was him who got the same options, then he will sing the Swan Song a thousand time if it guarantee the safety of the village and his friend.
While Tsubasa can only listen quietly, Hibiki kept her quiet for her own reasons, hearing the tone OOO is taking.
"Is such thought...belong only to Kanade-san?" Hibiki thought with a sense of unease that she didn't quite understand herself.
"B...But if I don't become a sword...I might one day have to experience the feeling of losing those that are important to me again!" Tsubasa shouted out, it has been the most expressive Hibiki got to see of the blue haired girl, of course she wish it has been in more positive circumstance. "The sadness and anguish from it..." Tsubasa said as she now choke in her own tear, she can see the sense in OOO's words but every time she remember the pain she feel looking at Kanade's condition, of the helplessness. It make her just want to throw it all away. "Heh...in the end all that talk of becoming a sword is because I was too afraid to endure those feelings. I was a foolish girl since the beginning already."
Suddenly, Tsubasa found herself in a receiving of soothing pat on the back by OOO. It was strange, despite the gauntlet, she can feel the warm, or maybe sincerity from it. It offer the confused bluenette a fleeting moment of calm and safety that she hasn't felt ever since Kanade in a coma.
After a few seconds, OOO pull back his hand with a chuckle.
"You were looking so tense for a moment, so I am not sure what to do, but moment like these a pat on the back won't hurt." OOO said lightheartedly as he stood up.
Honestly OOO wasn't sure if that would work, but the tears has stopped, progress right?
The Yummy stood up, shaking off the dizziness before zero its sight onto OOO and the Gear Users. Then simultaneously both the Yummy and the Rider crouched down with green electricity gathered around their feet.
"Is there anything wrong with feeling overwhelmed? When it come to your emotion no one can really said it right or wrong, your feeling for your friend is just that strong. Of course you can't runaway forever, so when you has finish crying. When you finish having doubt about yourself then stand up." OOO said as Tsubasa's widen from surprise with what he said. "You can do it, if you acknowledge you aren't just a sword. After all, Hibiki-chan love listen to your song the most! She can tell you why is that." OOO said with a smile.
Right then and there both OOO and the Yummy leap toward each other. With OOO swing down the Medaljalibur, clashing against the scythes of the Yummy, they struggle for dominance, with OOO not backing down despite the Yummy shot out electricity around the area. The stray bolts of lightning scratched against the armor, but with no visible damage, OOO endure it and swing down his Medaljalibur, the slashes knocked the Yummy back.
Tsubasa watched the battle, unable to momentarily comprehend the meaning of his words.
"Your song, it was passionate." Hibiki spoke up drawing the blue haired girl attention, like her, Hibiki watching the battle. However unlike Tsubasa's confused gaze, Hibiki's is one of focus and concentration that Tsubasa hasn't saw on the young girl before. "It make me feel like you put all your heart in each songs. Beside the fact I was wondering whether or not you saved me, I genuinely liked how your song seems to convey your want to protect and care for other. If you really were just an emotionless sword, then I don't think I could have heard such wonderful song." Hibiki said confidently.
Tsubasa want to said that is just her job, her obligation. The front she put on to appeal the mass as an idol. But the thought of lying regarding her songs, what created the bond between her and Kanade is unthinkable, she just can't. Thus Tsubasa was once more confronted with her own truth.
"So...Am I not fit to be the blade of sentinel for humanity?" Tsubasa asked dryly.
"Honestly, I am not sure if I understand everything bothering Tsubasa-san." Hibiki admitted with a sheepish chuckle. "However..." She trailed off, her eyes gain a hint of...it was hard to put to words but Tsubasa can associate with it well enough, considering she too held such gaze whenever she look at Kanade who sings, fight, and help other with all her heart. "I know Eiji-kun believe you can protect other and sing your songs happily as the same time. And I believe in Eiji-kun while also love your song, so I suppose that is?"
That is? Such an answer...
"How irresponsible. But...Maybe. Just maybe. You would pick such a straightforward person, wouldn't you? Kanade." Tsubasa thought with a soft smile.
How long has it been already, since such a calm smile formed on the blue haired girl lips.
What plague her minds, the weights, the burdens. All of it is still there...but she can face it now...the feeling that she so uncertain and locked away not out of will but out of fear. The words of two people she tried to harm minutes ago make her being able to look at herself once again, something she stopped doing since what happened to Kanade.
And so with a grit of her teeth she asked aloud toward OOO.
"Can I...truly protect all those I care for?!" Tsubasa's voice contain no hostility, just genuine curiosity and a hint of frustration.
"I don't known!" OOO replied instantly surprise her a bit. "But you can always try, and if it seems you can't do it always remember there are someone who care for you and you are not alone! But...you already knew that, right Tsubasa-chan!?"
OOO momentarily turn toward Tsubasa, with an understanding look, before resume his fight against the Yummy who picked itself up.
"Kanade..." Tsubasa muttered her friend name with an emotion she thought she has manage to throw away.
But how foolish she was, how could she throw away the bond between her and her best friend like that? What would remain of Kazanari Tsubasa if she did something like that?
"And there are many more. It was easy to tell, all of them they care for you. They are your comrades, friends and families, all of them in the 2nd Division are waiting for you to return safely." OOO then declared confidently. "So first, I will defeat this Yummy that used your desire!"
OOO's visor flashed green and he launch himself straight at the standing up Yummy who let out a loud shriek once again and also charge straight at him, now the battle between the Rider and the Noises absorbed Yummy truly start!
Claws and scythes meet in a shower of sparks, mixture of yellow and green aura. OOO then broke the struggle and release multiple claw strikes that too fast for human eyes to follow while in return the monster also retaliate with it own slashes.
"Just...who is that man?" Tsubasa wondered, with an expression of disbelief.
She watch as OOO battling the Yummy that born out of her desire, the man whom she has unjustly accused of crimes he didn't commit, now displaying true strength. Not limited in terms of battle prowess, but also mindset. It represent a kind of strength she has been pursuing. She has once forgotten why she admired this strength, why she want to strive for it herself, but now thanks to him, she has been reminded. She then feel a hand on her shoulder as she look up and see Hibiki, the girl she tried to kill despite she did nothing wrong, look at her with a warm smile. Ironically it stung more than if Hibiki just outright slapped her, which Tsubasa now know she deserve.
"He is Hino Eiji, just someone who believe that there's nothing wrong with helping other." Hibiki simply said, but the trust she has in her tone is unmistakable.
In return Tsubasa once more look at OOO, from here she saw his back and she was reminded, to always face the dangers ahead, and showing one back to those they want to protect as if reassuring everything will be okay. It was also the feeling Amou Kanade given off when fighting alongside with her.
Such is a form and true strength of a protector. A true protector that Kazanari Tsubasa will once more strive for.
This time there is no more distraction, just a straightforward clash between a Rider and a Kaijin. OOO ducked a swipe aim for his head, he instantly jab both of his claws at the monster's belly sending the Yummy tumbling back. It quickly recover though, the Yummy snarled before it cross both of its scythes together as blue electricity suddenly crackle around its scythes.
"..Wait."
"That stance..." OOO muttered cautiously.
Both Hibiki and Tsubasa widened their eyes at the movement of the monster.
"Isn't that..." Hibiki said in surprise.
"There's no mistake...that is my..." Tsubasa growled with gritted teeth.
The Kamakiri then swing down its scythe in a cross formation, sending out a familiar energy slashes.
CERULEAN SLASHES!
The difference between the Kamakiri and Tsubasa attacks were obvious. Beside the fact slash it is colored green, OOO was sure he has only ever seen Tsubasa utilize the attack in a one slash style, similar to his OOO Bash. Definitely not the cases for the Kamakiri's cross shaped version rushing straight at him.
OOO instantly brought up the side of the Medaljalibur for defense, but the impact still force him back. His feet dug to the ground, dragging a trails through the roads. In the end, the attack exploded, sending the Rider flying. He grunt in pain as he crash to the ground and come to a few roll before stopping.
Despite his effort to get up right away, the damage finally caught up, making OOO's movement slowed for few seconds. But that was enough opening for the Yummy to leap forward with its scythes swing high cackling with energy.
CLANG!
The scythes swing down only to meet the blade of Tsubasa's sword in enlarged mode, her sudden intervene surprised the Yummy making it froze for a moment. Just in time for Hibiki to deal another Gungnir's fueled punch to the Yummy, making it stumble back in daze. Using this chance the two girls quickly help OOO back to his feet.
"You already tired yourself out when just taking my attacks along with that monster earlier." Tsubasa said professionally, and the lack of coldness in her voice give OOO's great relief, but he didn't expect the honest smile she flashed to him. "Beside...this being was born from my desire, how could I disgrace myself further by sit back and let you do all the work?" Tsubasa asked.
She look forward to his immediate response, probably because thanks to him she can now face her true feeling, she is curious about his reaction to a different attitude she showing him now.
"So that's your real smile eh? Look great." OOO complimented with a smile himself. "Alright, let's go! Tsubasa-chan, Hibiki-chan!" OOO declared energetically.
The Rider then stood forth with the two Symphogear Users flank his side, their trio formation is the image of confidence and determination!
Of course, inwardly though, is a slightly different story.
"T...Tsubasa-chan?" Tsubasa thought barely withheld a surprise stutter.
Safe to said, among all the response Tsubasa thought she would got clearly this is not among them. Let it be known, despite her occupation Tsubasa is weak against such a way to address her. Rather it because of her closed lifestyle, Tsubasa do not interact with anyone who address her such, even her Uncle would just call her first name only. Of course how the fan address her is a whole different matter, they are filtered by her life as an idol.
In other words, in her own way, Kazanari Tsubasa is just social awkward.
Meanwhile OOO wonder if he imagining it or is Hibiki's grip suddenly get a bit stronger to a point like she trying to crush his hand? Nah, probably just his fatigue kicking in.
"I'm counting on you two then. Hope you don't mind if I take the lead though." OOO suggested as he step forward.
After all, Tsubasa herself still seems quite out of it from the Yummy's influence, not knowing if it might contain some side effect and Hibiki is undoubtedly still inexperience with her Gungnir.
Tsubasa and Hibiki nodded, with the former also have the same thought. As an experienced fighter, the bluenette known her own body best and it still feel tingling. Then also the fact known your enemies known oneself, and OOO once again take that category here.
For Hibiki it simply a matter of trust. That and she still doesn't know what to do beside clench her fist, this make the cream haired girl feel a bit dampened that she can't create the same massive spear Kanade had wielded.
"Right. Let's us finish this battle." Tsubasa replied, her expression is the prime example of calmness, not a trace of her prior thought linger.
The blue haired girl's battle mind set help her get over her flutter instantly, though one can still spot a slight pink dust on her cheek, only slightly.
"Yeah we should finish thing right away!" Hibiki quickly agreed.
Her voice carry an enthusiasm that a bit different compare to her usual cheerful tone to OOO but he just can't put his finger on it. Still he couldn't agree more as the three of them get to their battle stances.
Hibiki herself settle for a simple actions of putting up her two hands in a guarding positions. It completely full with weakness for the experienced eyes like Tsubasa, but the fiery determination shine in Hibiki's eyes was enough for the blue haired girl.
And so with the two Songstresses by OOO's sides, all three of them dash forth.
Playing Regret Nothing Tighten Up.
Seeing this, the Kamakiri Yummy swing it scythes at them, but OOO intercepted the strike with his forearm. Follow by a quick twirl movement, the Rider deflected the scythes and dealing palm strike at the Yummy at the same time with his other hands, pushing the Yummy back with. OOO then quickly step out of the way.
"This is my true-!"
Just in time for the Yummy to hear its host's booming voice.
CERULEAN FLASH!
Tsubasa's signature electric slash hits it target, sending the Kamakiri Yummy flying back further. It last act of crossing its scythe prevented more lasting damage. Then giving Tsubasa a heated glare, the mantishopper themed monster eyes shone with the malicious green light once more.
Though to no avail.
"Sorry, but no more am I a person that was easily controlled by your trickery." Tsubasa said with conviction and concentration.
Her defying clear blue eyes meet the gaze of the Yummy unflinchingly.
"CREEEECCCKKKK!" The Yummy suddenly let out a large shriek.
Its cry caused the nearby streetlight to turn on and off erratically before they broke with a burst that release shower of sparks and fragments of glasses fall crashed to the road.
With light bulb busted and bringing some darkness to the street plus the surprise ear piercing scream, both Tsubasa and Hibiki was left momentarily distorted.
Taking this as a chance, the insect monster spread out its wing and took off to the sky. Its intention is clearly retreat rather than another attempt of attack. Its cry caused the distractions that delay the pursuit. Now it just have to return and bring back the Cell Medals it accumulate and find another chances to-
[KUGAWATA- KUJAKU- CONDOR!]
Right, how in the Core's sake could it forgot about it original and biggest problem at all?
BAM!
The answer to that question came appropriately in a form of a punch engulfed in fire and electricity slammed right into the Yummy's back, right where its wing are connected. Needless to said the punch did more than enough to take away the Kamakiri's ticket to the sky, with the flame burning its wing viciously and the electricity restricted its movement, the Yummy was send pummeling down the ground.
As the same time, with a ticked off expression, Tachibana Hibiki dashed straight toward said spot, with her fist cocked back.
"You used Tsubasa-san's feelings! You trampled on her feelings for Kanade-san and her songs! And most of all you tried to make her kill Eiji-kun! I have had enough from you already!" Hibiki yelled with rare fury that OOO haven't seen before.
Then the girl simply throw out a punch, a punch that contain all her anger. Unknown to her, her face was shrouded in black shadow with her eyes flashed a vicious red gleam and a fanged grin can be seen. Just like when she first transformed but like last time, it quickly disappeared after her punch landed squarely at the airborne Yummy's abdomen.
The punch she thrown moment prior, that contained a burst of Gungnir's power, was strong enough to send the Yummy through a truck.
BOOM!
But compare to this one, it is like a swat from a kitty! For a shock-wave can be seen pierce right through the mantis monster, sending it flying back, crashing through multiple vehicles, knocking them all away at once. If the last punch was surprising, then this punch is astonishing! This time even Hibiki has registered how powerful her punch was.
And it is indeed so, abnormally powerful even by Symphogear's standard in fact. For Tsubasa can only look at the damage with astonishment.
"That was an Armed Gear level attack just now! And Tachibana unleash such power from a simple punch!?" Tsubasa asked in shock, then her eyes widened seeing an afterimage of Kanade standing next to Hibiki, she then let out a small smile. "It seems...in the end you really handed Gungnir to a right person eh, Kanade? I should have known not to doubt you." Tsubasa muttered with a content smile.
Hibiki also stare at her hands in surprise, she only meant to maybe try and land another minor hits, help out the battle in whatever way she can like she has been. She didn't expect to throw a punch that can make a freaking shock-wave and send her foe flying like some finisher from a fighting game.
But while Hibiki was contemplating the surreal powers she didn't realize she possess, the cream haired girl saw OOO have landed next to her while Tsubasa also make her way to them. OOO gave a nod to her before he step forward and change his Medals back to the Multi-Combo.
[TAKA-TORA-BATTA! TATOBA! TATOBA! TATOBA!]
Just as the change completed the girls see OOO take out his Medaljalibur as he load three Cell Medals into it. As the same time the Yummy stand up again and once more it cross its scythes while thick electricity cover its blades.
The girls seems to tense seeing this but OOO still calmly swipe his OOO Driver along the side of the Medaljalibur.
[TRIPLE SCANNING CHARGE!]
Tsubasa and Hibiki look on as OOO's sword now coated in a white/blueish energy, with three rings of energy, sharing the same characteristic, looped over the blade.
"Seiyah!" OOO cried out.
The Rider then swing down his Medajalibur.
CERULEAN CROSS!
just in time as the Kamakiri Yummy also swing down its crossed arm, sending its cross shaped green electric slashes in retaliation.
Tsubasa watch on with focus gaze as the two attacks clashed, with Hibiki looked on in worry. Wondering who would win in the end, but then the blue hair girl let out a smile.
End Song.
"In the end...there's no way a false blade forged from my foolishness can stand up to a blade of a true protector eh?" Tsubasa said with a resigned smile.
From her and Hibiki perspective, OOO's slash cut through the Yummy's. It then continue its path to the Yummy with no opposition and the moment the energy slash meet its target? Space itself seems to be cut apart with a clear line showing the cut. None watching the scene can describe it in any other way, as crazy as it sound, it is like reality itself have been cut by the attack.
"Arg...A...Ah! Eiji-kun! You destroyed the space itself!" Hibiki cried out comically.
But then she let out a relief sigh as the cut effect quickly gone and the space along with everything in their view seems to be back for normal.
Except for the Yummy itself, with it upper half clearly separate from it lower half now. It barely manage to grunt before it exploded and from it, a huge amount of Cell Medals pour down at the spot where the Yummy perished.
"Coins?" Hibiki said in surprise, watching a literal coin rain.
Tsubasa also look at the Cell Medals with mixed feelings. After all, just till moments ago her desire was controlled by these harmless looking coins.
"Eiji! Hurry up and gather the Cell Medals!" Ankh's voice suddenly can be heard, shouting from their earpieces.
This make the girls gave a small flinch in surprise while OOO hearing that just let out a knowing sigh before he comply. But just as he is five steps away from them, all the Cell Medals was covered in azure aura before they pick themselves up and fly away. Seeing this OOO quickly jump up and only manage to grab a handful of Cell Medals before the rest quickly fade away from view toward unknown destination. The Medals Rider can just imagine Ankh's frustrated expression right now but at least these will do.
The moment OOO landed to the ground, Hibiki and Tsubasa already running toward him.
"Uhmm...what's just happened?" Hibiki asked with a confused expression.
"It seems...whatever happening is just a beginning...isn't?" Tsubasa asked.
OOO merely nodded in response
"But...tonight it no doubt victory was ours, plus..." OOO said as he tilt his Driver back to original position and his armor quickly fall apart to gold particle with Hibiki and Tsubasa followed suit and dismissed their Gears to white particles. "We manage to resolve the knot in your heart, so that's good enough right?" Eiji said with a happy smile.
Now Tsubasa think about it...
"His smile...is of genuine relief. The care he has for other, not a words of blame or contempt for my actions against him. This is Hino Eiji's powers?"
"So, how are you feeling now, Tsubasa-chan?"
Eiji asked when he notice the bluenette seems to be spacing out. His concern snapped Tsubasa out of her staring, feeling a bit flustered of allow herself to be distracted, Tsubasa managed to keep her composure.
"Ah. I am alright now. I am both grateful and apologize for all the troubles you two have to go through for my selfishness." Tsubasa replied formally as she gave both of them a formal bow.
"It's alright Tsubasa-san! As long as you don't glare at me so much anymore please?" Hibiki asked jokingly.
Though it seems to have more dire effects than Hibiki expect, as she and Eiji have to convince the constant apologetic Tsubasa that everything is fine, during their trip back to the 2nd Division.
During the middle of it, the conversation also contain a minor detour of dissuade Tsubasa from the notions that letting them hits her with equal numbers of hit she had dealt them, and yes she keep count, will at least be an acceptable peace offering for now.
15 minutes later, the trio find themselves back at the 2nd Division.
Right when they walk through the door, Genjuro already make his way toward Tsubasa. Hibiki and Eiji share a knowing glance before giving the two family members their privacy.
"Commander." Tsubasa said.
But instead of her usual aloof gaze, the bluenette eyes held a soft gaze in them. The girl was fully prepare for any punishment dealt toward her for her insubordinate, not the large hand rubbed her head gently and warmly.
"For now, let me just reassure myself with the fact you are safe and sound. Of course there will be some reprimand later, but the lessons can wait." Genjuro said with a heartfelt grin, then his expression dropped to a more vulnerable smile. "Welcome back, Tsubasa."
"...I'm back. Oji-sama." Tsubasa whispered, for a moment her tone is that of a young girl simply greeting her kind uncle. "Then, Commander, I would like to go with Tachibana and check up on our Gear, especially to see how she handled the aftermath of her first real battle." Tsubasa said, with her disciplined tone return.
Genjuro smiled in relief, knowing this is how Tsubasa make herself comfortable around everyone, and nodded in approval.
This left Eiji, Ankh, Ryoko and Genjuro in the room. The few staffs in the background already occupied themselves with handling the aftermath of the battle. Ankh make note to stay as faraway from the female scientist as possible much to Eiji's amusement, though Ankh seems to noticed it, if the failed attempts to swat Eiji's ups head upside is any indication.
Though the Vagabond Rider wasn't able to avoid the second attempt and let Ankh got the satisfaction, due to the fact Genjuro suddenly gave him a standing deep bow.
"Hino Eiji-kun. I'm grateful for what you have done to help Tsubasa. She had been closing herself from everyone after what happen to Kanade-kun and I still don't know how to help her. Now thanks to you, she once again being able to trust other and open herself once more. Known that what I own you isn't something I can easily repay halfheartedly, if you have anything you need, please speak. I will do all in my capacity to fulfill it." Genjuro spoke seriously.
At first, Eiji considered there seems to be not much in term of similarity between Genjuro and Tsubasa, but now he can said there are a great deal of resemblance between this pair of uncle and niece.
Of course, in this room the only one who realize the true gravity of the Commander's words is Ryoko. This isn't simply the matter of favor, it is the fact Genjuro believe whatever demand Eiji named out will be within moral reasons despite having hold over the Commander of the 2nd Division, this told the scientist the trust Genjuro placing on the young man right now.
"That's alright, I actually didn't do much." Eiji said waving his hand in a placate manner. "In the end, Tsubasa-chan herself is the one who make the decision to move forward, I only give her a bit of a push that's all." Eiji said, his expression melt to a solemn one. "Beside, it was my fault she became like that anyway. So this is the least I can do to help. It natural."
Genjuro was about to make a remark about how it is definitely not his fault but someone already beat him to it.
"Heh? Tsubasa-chan eh? So this is your reward of literally slaying her inner demon?" Ryoko said with raised eyebrows and a grin. "My, my. Flirting is far less destructive back in my days."
While Genjuro just shook his head, it was actually quite normal for Eiji's case. In the first place, given their ages, Eiji have more leeway of addressing Tsubasa when they talk. The guy understandably held back due to how Tsubasa was clearly harbor animosity to him and Hibiki at first. Now that the issue seems to have been resolve, Eiji just subconsciously let his habit take over again, if the way he address Hibiki is anything to go by.
"Better keep my mouth shut though, never good to deprive Ryoko of her fun when she is like this. Sorry Eiji." Genjuro thought with a small bemused smile.
And who know, call him crazy, but time working with the scientist make Genjuro think this is her own way to cheer Eiji up from the somber mood he brought on himself seconds ago. And it seems like she isn't the only one with such tactic, a blur of red smacked against the back of Eiji's head. More startled than anything, Eiji rubbed his head while giving Ankh a sting eyes wonder what is up with the Greeed again.
"Finally got your attention eh? I was worried if I don't remind you, you will just stuck in old stories and ignore the current problem of Yummy just spawn in this world, right in front of your eyes?" Ankh asked snarkily.
Even then, Genjuro can see the consideration extended toward Eiji from the Greeed. No doubt about it, using works to temporarily distract oneself from guilt or distress is a common tactics, of course most would settle for some desk jobs, rather than the prospect of more life or death battles. But then as the Commander of the Anti-Noise Division, Genjuro really has no right to judge. Of course there also a possibility the Greeed require his companion to focus on the battle for his own sake, but Ankh's prior words of faith regarding Eiji make Genjuro doubt that.
"Plus, they share the same kind of bonds Tsubasa and Kanade do." Genjuro thought with an appraising gaze.
The man then let out am amused grin seeing those two start to argue again, with Ankh the one giving out insult while Eiji just rebuke at him, only make Genjuro more confident in his assessment. Despite how apparent it may seems that these two have more different than a cat and a dog. But then he notice Ryoko, who had been quiet from the beginning till now, which was totally unlike her, is also staring intently at Eiji with a gaze that he knew all too well.
"So Eiji-kun, with what you said, would it be wrong for me to assume you will protect our two cute little Gear Users?" Ryoko asked with a lopsided grin.
Her question gain the attention of the young man who engaging in an arm wrestling with Ankh, who now find himself flying straight to the wall, due to the fact Eiji suddenly let go of his grip while Ankh was still pushing himself. An ignorant Eiji just nod with a resolute expression to Ryoko's question.
"Ah. Both Hibiki-chan and Tsubasa-chan are strong in their own ways, but I know they can be stronger. I want to help till they reach their full strength, beside Rider helping out R- eh non-Riders are natural." Eiji said, chuckle at his slip of tongue.
He didn't think that particular quote would be pass around among his comrades, while not untrue, it make him so fond of it that he almost slip up.
Genjuro have no qualm with Eiji's response. No, if anything what cause Genjuro to be on guard is the teasing gaze his old friend has, not to mention that smirk he knew all so well also showing itself, the same smirk that signal a poor soul have become her new teasing target.
"So...does that mean you intend to make the two of them yours any time soon?" Ryoko asked coyly.
"And...round two begin." Genjuro sighed.
"Hm...Well me and Hibiki-chan are close friend already." Eiji replied with a hand to his chin in thought. "For Tsubasa-chan, I'm sure it only matter of time." Eiji said with a shrug, but then he notice the owlish look Ryoko was giving him, even Genjuro giving him a look of disbelief. "...if that's what you mean...that's not what you mean is it?" Eiji asked with a strained expression.
Genjuro coughed to his hand and decide to stay silent, he isn't going to look for trouble when trouble not looking for him. Nope.
As for Ryoko herself, after a full minute of silent, her eyes seems to sparkle in excitement.
"But this is...oh my...I can't believe it...a dense type...oh this will be a gold mine for my work life!" Ryoko exclaimed with star in her eyes.
"Ah~ It been a while someone call me that." Eiji said with a reminiscence tone as he held back a twitch in his smile.
"Better give it up woman. Trying to discuss that basic topic to him would take more effort than you people battling the Noises everyday." Ankh deadpanned as he float up next to them after picking himself off the ground. "In fact, whenever love is involved then his usefulness is like lifting a match under the Sun. Like the time when he can't seems to realize that a girl's desire was a teenage crush despite how obvious it is, or when a Yummy's ability make him act like he is in love- HMPH!"
As he was about to continue, Eiji frantically stopped him by grabbing said floating arm.
"Ankh! Didn't we promised to never talk about it again? Beside that girl real target was Date-san from the start."
Eiji frantically explained while restraining the Greeed. Somehow, among all the ridiculous situation he found himself in, that is the one memory that make Eiji want to just bury himself in the ground. How does he think that is any worse than showing up in public in just his boxers, no one will known.
Just at that moment, the glass door slide open with Hibiki, Tsubasa, Shinji, Aoi and Sakuya walk in.
"Heh~ Eiji-kun's love story? May I known the detail of it?" Hibiki asked with a closed eyes smile.
Though it a smile that is way more sweet than the standard it need to be natural. Eiji can tell, the fact surprised him, plus the chill go down his shivered back side is definitely not a good sign. Just what is wrong with his cream haired friend recently? What could possibly bring out such reactions from her!?
Meanwhile the other, even Ankh, shot him a pitiful glances, like a mass knowing a man who was convicted is in fact innocent.
Except for Tsubasa, who seems lost at what transpiring, though she does find the topic to be a bit interesting.
"Hi...Hibiki-chan." Eiji didn't mean for his voice to stutter but for some reason it still did. "It was nothing really. Me and my friends once encountered a woman, who at that time have a desire to be more attractive you see. So the Yummy used that to make all the man around her infatuated at her instantly, at that time I wasn't prepared so I was also affected." Eiji said sheepishly as he scratch the back of his head in embarrassment.
"Oh is that all?" Hibiki said happily as she let out a sigh of relief before she continue. "I am worried cause Eiji-kun definitely is inexperience with love so I wouldn't want you to be tricked." Hibiki said without missing a beat.
Those who didn't know her would assume the cream haired girl is challenging anyone to correct her on her reasons, but that can't be it. Impossible.
"I see eh? Thanks Hibiki-chan you really are a good friend." Eiji said with a grateful smile.
Though that make a small part of Eiji wonder, did a 14 years old just assume he is naturally that bad at romance? Not sure how he should feel about that.
As for Hibiki, the girl averted her gaze in face of his gratitude, for a reason one could get unless you are Hino Eiji, she feel kind of guilty right now.
"Dense!"
Despite not linking their mind together, everyone managed to share this same thought. Except for one person.
"I understand very well. As a warrior, one must continue to improve everyday. It nothing to be shameful about if you make mistake in your younger day Hino-san." Tsubasa said encouragingly, giving him an apologetic smile. "As you already see, me myself still have much to learn as well. Too much."
Genjuro can only shook his head in amusement. Bless his niece's ignorant heart.
Then again for a young girl in her 16, who spent her life solely on discipline, music and art of the sword, one can't blame his niece for her lacking of social interaction. In fact, Genjuro pretty sure that was the reasons why as the duo, Tsubasa always get dragged by Kanade's pace. Not that she mind of course, but it hard to see Tsubasa take the lead except it is in the battlefield.
Though now that the mention of the Yummy come up, it reminded Genjuro of the ordeal that just happened, thus he decided it is time to get back to business once more.
"Eiji-kun, Ankh-kun, if you two don't mind me asking. Just what was the creature that used Tsubasa's desire?" Genjuro asked with steeled expression, one can tell he is still angry over the fact someone make use of his niece's moment of weakness. "I heard Ankh-kun call it a Yummy so you two must known something about it right?"
Everyone hearing this question all turn toward Eiji and Ankh, hoping to get some answer, the room's atmosphere become silence in anticipation.
"Not to mention when that creature was exterminated, lots of silver coins was flow out of it. No doubt it relate to the colored coins Eiji-kun use to fight as OOO right?" Ryoko asked with an intrigued tone.
Eiji wasn't that surprised, such connection would only take someone with keen observation, and the one who talk to him is a renowed professor. The young vagabond then send a look at Ankh and it didn't take a second for the Greeed to understand what he want to said, the Greeed just let out a grunt before he response.
"Fine. Now that they all saw it already, the cat is out of the bag. If you want just explained it them."
Eiji give him a thankful nod before he turn back to everyone who patiently waiting to hear him speak, he can see the anticipations in all their eyes.
"Alright, remember when I said in each realities I known of there are certain Riders with different origins right?" Everybody gave a collective nod at Eiji's words. "Well now I will tell all of you what I known about the origin of OOO along with the threat me and my friends fought against back in my reality."
Thus Eiji began the tales of OOO.
How it all began 800 years ago, when a certain King, who ruled the land of European, with the specific timeline lost to the pages of history. He who possess the unique yet dangerous Soul of Desire, yearn for godhood and never satisfy despite having a kingdom of his own. So by gathering top alchemists at that time, the King ordered the creation of the OOO Scanner and the OOO Driver along with the Core Medals.
But first, to achieve this, the gathered top tier alchemists need to bring to life five powerful creatures that embodied the desire itself.
It is till this part, Hibiki can't content her curiosity as she raise up her hand like she was in a classroom. Only speak when Eiji give her a 'go ahead' gesture.
"Uhm...Why desire?" Hibiki asked curiously.
Ankh decided to be the one who answered this question.
"Look around you little girl." Ankh promptly ignored said 'little girl' protest. "This world is made out of desire itself, all creation you knew, all form of action you take. Each of it is a living beings in actions, wanting to fulfill their desires one way or another. Even this Division was created out of the desire for the survival of humanity against the Noises right? And emotions like love, hate, respect, jealousy and all other kind? All of it in the end are aspects of desire too." Ankh said in his matter of fact tone. "Well most of us that's it." Ankh muttered, sending a sideway glance.
Not that anyone can tell due to Ankh's appearance as an arm but Hibiki actually noticed, or rather she feel the glance toward Eiji, who has a somewhat unreadable expression, all of this was under a split second.
"Desires are just desires, no one said it have to be good or bad, it all depend on how one go to fulfill it." Eiji said, almost cryptically, if not for his disarming smile.
"Amazing, the concept is simple but true. It encompass life itself, if one can indeed harness the powers follow this line of thought, the results would be astonishing." Ryoko said analytically with an exciting grin on her face. "But, saying is one thing, to put it to practice is a whole different matters! What I wouldn't give to hold a conversation with even one of the talented mind involved in the creation of the OOO!" Ryoko exclaimed with a wistful sigh.
"Hm! Maybe they are sharp in their heads, but those bastards all gotten dull when it come to their hearts. Spineless cowards who will only listen to a tyrant, even in aiding him to get his hand on a dangerous powers." Ankh said snarkily.
The annoyance in his tone surprised everyone, due to it not just a usual flare of personality, one can tell he is genuinely angry.
But Ryoko saw something else in Ankh's reactions.
"Ankh-kun, would it be wrong for me to assume you are also..." Ryoko purposefully let her words hanging.
"I will clap, if I have my other hands, for you woman." Ankh said with an uncaring snort. "Indeed. I am one of those creatures who were considered Gods to humanity, with powers many can only dreams. Even a King desperately sought out our powers. And we are called...Greeed." Ankh said somewhat dramatically.
Eiji wonder briefly, since Ankh has experienced his full powers return to him, did he decide to act in a more flaring style? He certainly wouldn't pass that possibility for the avian Greeed. When he not acting overly cautious, then he would act arrogantly, a contradicting mix for sure but that just how Ankh is. He just merely express both trait side by side now.
For the rest of the listeners, they were looking at Ankh with mixed expression. For despite his current appearances now, Eiji has confirmed this is just a temporarily situations. Then what will it be when Ankh regain his full body?
Though again it was Hibiki that first speak and with a whole different questions than the one on everyone mind right now.
"Greed as in the English word that describe being greedy right?" Hibiki asked innocently.
Though Ankh didn't exactly appreciate the that innocent tone ruined his race name.
"No! G-r-e-e-e-d! See there are three 'e' instead of two!" Ankh snapped comically.
Like a frightened kitty, Hibiki quickly hide behind Eiji.
"Rig...Right! Got it! Sorry Ankh-san!" Hibiki blurt out apologetically.
The girl practically hold on Eiji for dear life...that is until she realize what she is doing, her face turned beet red but didn't let go and maintain her hold on him. Eiji give her a sympathized look, knowing how scary Ankh can be sometimes. Seeing this, Hibiki has a shaky smile as she decide it not wrong to go with the flow, hence she stuck in that position for few minutes.
"Ah-hem." Genjuro fake cough into his fist. "If you don't mind can we continue with the story?" The Commander asked politely.
Ankh just let out another grunt before resuming.
"Anyway back then when we first created we were a complete being. One could said we are literally God-like being. And with it? We did nothing." Ankh scoffed mockingly. "Guess being perfect mean sitting in one spot like a glorified piece of furniture. Honestly, I never remember how I 'spent' those moment. I don't think I even feel anything." Ankh said, for once his tone carry a hint of solemn.
Everyone save for Eiji, who already understand this part very well, look at him with mixed feelings. For Hibiki herself, the girl outright showing sadness for the Greeed, to hear he once was an all powerful beings but the way he describe it...
"Sometimes...we get reminded how lucky we are for what we already have eh?"
Hibiki's rare moment of reflection isn't alone. Given her already pensive nature and her recent experience, Tsubasa can't help but sport a small grimace as well.
"Emotionless...unfeeling...was that what I was aiming for?"
"Of course, the King isn't very thrilled of this development. Kind of pointless when his supposed Ultimate Weapons are just a bunch of statues sitting on all that massive powers, so in the end to create a purpose for us he decide to take part of us away." Ankh said. "Heh, if it not for how much of a piece of work that bastard is, I might have consider send him a word of gratitude for that. Turn out nine is just the right number."
As everybody confused look Eiji decide to explain for them.
"Everyone wondered what my colored coins are right? Well they called Core Medals and I guess you can said they are the vital organs of a Greeed? Ah that remind me Ankh, here."
Eiji then dug inside his pocket and take out a boxer out of all thing.
Everyone of course gave the young man a weird look, even Hibiki who more used to his antics still has a tint of red on her face, Tsubasa herself also try to hide it but one could see she share the same reaction.
Still without a care, the young vagabond unwrap the boxer which show the Cell Medals he collected from before.
"Now you remember it? Argh. Whatever perfect timing anyway." Ankh grumbled, the floating arm get near the Cell Medals before absorbing all of it through his palm. "Well that will have to do for now. Anyway as you can see, the Core Medals are what make up our power and what hold us together while the Cell Medals act like our body."
"Think of an ice cream stick, the stick is the Core while the ice cream is the Cell." Eiji added to clarify, using the first example Ankh used for him back then.
It definitely do the trick give Hibiki understand more easily if her brighten up expression is anything to go by.
The story then continue, everyone listened to the consequence of the King's action. By taking one Core Medal from each of the Greeeds away, they have indeed truly awaken for the first time since their creation. But they only feel a sense of lacking.
"No. At that time we can't even describe it in words, basically we just known." Ankh scoffed at what must be one of his worst memories. "We were no different than toddler who cried for some breast milk without knowing why." Ankh said.
The edge in his tone make those like Hibiki, Aoi and Sakuya feel squirmish under the intense pressure. While other like Genjuro has a frown on his face but otherwise show no other signs of discomfort.
The greedy King's plan backfired even more as lacking one Core Medal leading to the Greeeds to unleash their powers wildly in hope of gaining that missing pieces back.
"Of course, lacking one Core Medals isn't a small change but with the remaining Cores, our powers are still above everything human have seen. Hence the damage we unleash at that time is akin to natural disasters razed through it."
Hearing what Ankh said, everyone grimaced while Hibiki in particular looked distraught.
"W...Was there anyone..."
"Of course there are casualty" Ankh said without missing a beat. To the Greeed, shying away from his own actions are never a way to deal with a problem. "Forced to gain consciousness by got part of our beings stolen from us. So we didn't really think clear of where we aim our power at that time. And frankly is just not our nature to care anyway, as being of desire we learn of humanity idiocy before we even known how to roar."
Seeing the girl's expression became even more distressed, Eiji decide to intervene while shooting a glance at Ankh.
"But now he is different, Ankh himself has known the value of being alive now right?" Eiji asked reassuringly.
"Well who known? Depend on the weather I guess." Ankh replied flippantly.
Eiji can only let out a small sigh at this at he give a light slap to the floating arm.
"Alright then, I think we should move on to the detail of how the OOO Driver finally come to play." Eiji said, hoping it work to distract Hibiki from the blunt response Ankh gave her. "Again the King still didn't give up, he determined to use the power of Greeed for his desire to be a God. So he order the alchemists to make one last item which was the OOO Driver, the only item to let a human bring out the full power of the Core Medals. And so with the stolen Core Medals in hand along with the OOO Driver, the King himself become the first OOO."
"Someone with a power like that and it is a King who drown in his desire...if the power Eiji-kun show us is any indication..." Genjuro muttered gravely but he was quickly cut off.
"Ah, no. Please don't mistake the power of OOO in the King's hand to the power I display currently." Eiji said with a wave of denial.
"I also believe Eiji-kun is stronger than someone who would abuse their power carelessly!" Hibiki exclaimed.
Ankh let out a guffaw surprising everyone, while Eiji adopted a sheepish chuckle.
"Honestly, in comparison I'm like a kitty to a lion." Eiji admitted, with Hibiki unable to contain her surprised expression. "From what I known, the King himself faced against all the Greeeds when they only missing one Core Medals. There were five of them in total, each contain nine Core Medals along with few Yummy feeding on the King's desire himself. And yet he still overpower all the Greeed who participate in that battle despite all the advantage they hold. Then there's me, who was smacked away easily by one of those Greeed with nine Core Medals."
Of course the truth Eiji offered make everyone here beside Ankh, to be quite anxious. Just by what they witness of OOO's strength and Eiji own account, the massive difference in powers are as clear as day and night. Though the fact of such being already no longer in mortal realm is a consolation thought.
"Hmph! As if it was only the King who fought that day." Ankh thought.
That thought also open up many emotions to the Greeed, a normal occurrence whenever he think back of that fateful day. Despite what he thought, he knew the King's victor is all the more apparent compare to the Greeed who blindly use their powers. The King is different. He is mad, but he focus on that madness, hone his desire like a peerless sword. It was a fundamental trait that perhaps let the mad conqueror wield the power of OOO better than anyone else.
The fact such a trait missing from him is what make Eiji lacking to be an equal OOO, but it is not something Ankh will deem as unfortunate.
But he keep quiet to himself, what need is there for such fact to be slip? To these stranger who he just interest for a business deal, regardless of what Eiji thinking, the both of them have been honest enough to show a lot of their hands, if anything they already showed too much in Ankh's opinion.
Eiji even if unable to grasp all of the Greeed's thought, still understand some facts belong to the Greeed to disclose alone, so he too make no mention of Ankh's specific role in that battle, it isn't wrong to said the King defeated all the Greeed in the end anyway.
"So the King finally got all the Core Medals and try to use it for himself, yet even the King can't handle the strain of using all those Medals so in the end he ironically lost his life while becoming a Seal that locked the Greeed away for 800 years. It was pure coincidence I was there when the event of the Greeed's reawakening happened. Then by meeting Ankh who was in a pinch at that time, he entrusted me with the Driver that he managed hold on during the Sealing and so I become the next OOO."
"Well it sure seems like fate was on my side at that time too." Ankh snorted haughtily at the reminder of said memories. "Here I am in a pinch due to the unfortunate circumstances and being hunting down by a Yummy and then this guy drop in right on time, proving to be a perfect tools for me to use, all I need to do was bait him with the OOO Driver's powers." Ankh said with a bored tone. Uncaring of the obvious glares he is receiving from both Hibiki and Tsubasa, while the other also didn't hide their displeasure. Eiji himself just let out a sigh. "But then I realize too late what a crazy decision I make! Not only you are uncontrollable but you also somehow force me to go with your pace!" Ankh suddenly snapped and vent toward Eiji who flinched comically, surprising everybody. "Did you people known the moron once refuse to transform if it mean I won't let him use the Driver whenever someone is in danger!?"
"Well that's how Eiji-kun- "
"While he was hanging for dear life, then subsequently, falling off of a 30 stories building that was on fire." Ankh added in with a deadpan tone.
His words successfully shut off whatever defense Hibiki was saying for Eiji.
Eerily silent...everyone seems to go silent over hearing that. Especially Hibiki, who went from talkative to not utter a single words, with her bang cover her eyes. Eiji for some reason got a feeling of dread again, a kind he get when a female onto him for screwing up and this time is no exception as Hibiki turn to him, her teary eyes now visible, her face is a mix of angry and concern together.
"Eiji-kun!" Hibiki growl out cutely, in Eiji opinion, but nonetheless still terrifying.
"W...Well at that time that seems to be the best leverage I have Hibiki-chan. I can't just ignore someone in need of help right?" Eiji attempted to reason.
It seems that appealing to the aspect of helping other worked given that Hibiki stopped her growling but she still keep a pout at him.
"Regardless you should look after yourself more Eiji-kun! And Miku-chan said I am the one who didn't care for my own safety." Hibiki said in worry.
Eiji can only chuckle helplessly in response to the criticize tone of the usual carefree girl, of course he appreciate the gesture.
"Alright lovebirds, save your quarrel later. I think all of us would want to hear the rest of the story now?" Ryoko said teasingly and impatiently.
Poor Hibiki yelped, while Eiji just nodded, already understand the antic of the Professor now.
Ankh just let out a sigh as he continue.
"Anyway long story short, Eiji battled against the Greeeds and their Yummies, with some help from other, among it being the descendant of the King out of all people." Ankh said, everyone seems taken back by this news. Imagine how Ankh himself feel the same way too, he can't believe he missed some of the obvious resemblance between the two relative. "His company is what provided Eiji the Medaljalibur sword as well as the bike he use, all utilize the power of Cell Medals."
"After that, in our final battle we manage to destroy the last Greeed." Eiji said as he momentarily thought back and remind himself that said Greeed was once human, no matter how twisted the man was. "But with it I temporally lost all the Core Medals until a recent events that let me regain the Medals. Since it turn out they had traveled 40 years to the future. But with it came a new threat." Eiji said grimly.
This caught everyone attention even more. Not to mention set them all on guard.
"A new enemy, was it related to the one who used the Yummy on Tsubasa?" Genjuro asked with schooled feature, honed naturally in his career.
"Yes. As it turn out in the future, said descendant of the King still trying to utilize the power of Core Medals once more and created a set of artificial Core Medals, with it a Kamen Rider/Greeed hybrid named Poseidon was born."
"Named after the Greece's God of Sea. Then I assume his power over water are what stand out the most?" Ryoko asked in interest as Eiji nod.
"He was a battle hungry existence and only care to find opponent to satisfy his urge for battle, I with the help of another Rider also from future managed to defeat him and we thought that's the last of him. But he survived, not only that he manage to come to this world." Eiji said with a grimace.
This suddenly make Ryoko thought of the event transpire months prior.
"The huge energies signals we detected along with the damage left behind...was that's the result of your clashes against said Rider, Eiji-kun?" Ryoko asked.
"Yes, he has become stronger than before but we manage to caught him off guard and dealt a heavy blow. Of course because of that battle we also suffered some damage with Ankh become like this and I suffered some wounds." Eiji explained casually, mostly trying to not rouse anymore worry from the way Hibiki still look at him. Ankh let out a snort as he listen, if one consider having ice spikes poke out from their body 'some wounds' then sure. Eiji was a bit wounded indeed. "But now with the appearance of the Yummy it mean he is on the move again, which lead us to now."
After Eiji finished his tale, everyone understandlby have a moment of silence, absorbing all they just heard.
Finally Genjuro is the one who speak first.
"Thanks for letting us known all of this Eiji-kun, Ankh-kun. I understand it not easy recalling all those memories at once." Genjuro said, giving a grateful nod.
After all, it is almost an equivalent of someone making Genjuro recount most of his memories during his younger days. Time when he still didn't have his Commander's title held him back, if anything many want him to be on the front line dealing with whatever dangers there is. And needless to said, during those time the Ki Master has faced many things that is not a best topic to bring up during a dinner.
"Hm, worry not. We do expect some compensation, I can expect you to not be too tightlipped if I want to know more about these Relics right?" Ankh asked.
"Oh, indeed. Worry not, my friend. I am happy to explain thoroughly whatever you want to know. Perhaps a one on one Q&A Session?" Ryoko asked...seductively.
Or perhaps that's what other would perceive but for Ankh, he can only feel an unimaginable dangers staring to his soul. A pair of eyes shone with passionate belong to a beautiful woman? As if! It a pair of eyes shone with malice containing the urge of seeing where she can start dissect him first!
"Okay, here a compensation right now! No leaving me alone with this woman, I mean it!"
Genjuro honestly wonder if the presence of another would even hinder his friend, so he can only give a shrug. Which does not help to appease the Greeed, at all.
"Ah-hem, no worry Genjuro-san. Poseidon is a threat of my world, you guys already have to worry about the Noises, rest assured I will not let Poseidon bring more harm to your world." Eiji said amicably.
"Don't said it like you are alone Eiji-kun, I will be there to help you too! Despite how little help I can give, I will make sure to be there for you just like you did for me." Hibiki said with a determined expression, leaving no room for argument.
"Thanks Hibiki-chan." Eiji simply said.
The young Rider's expression strained somewhat, obviously not comfortable with the ideas Hibiki involving herself to more of potential dangers. But EIji has a feeling, or maybe already known, he won't has much choice in said matter.
"Tachibana is right. You have helped us many time before despite not from this world so we will be there to support you too, plus we can't let a threat like Poseidon roam free either." Tsubasa said with a grateful tone.
It was a good sign for the 2nd Division to see the blue haired songstress can expression herself like this once more.
"I understand. It great to be able to receive support from the 2nd Division and you, Tsubasa-chan." Eiji thanked, feeling argument would be pointless now.
"Hm...they are shaping up to be quite a team." Genjuro thought with a smile.
He watch the two girls that until while ago couldn't seems to be able to sit in a room together, now they conversing with each other about their deepest problems, it seems in the end he really didn't need to worry after all. Having someone who fought against you in the past become your comrade, as dangerous as that sound, surely will contribute a lot to their teamwork when they finally fight side by side. It is what Genjuro believe can happen when you can see the strength and weakness of your friends clearly.
"Anyway it is late now, I think Hibiki-kun would need her rest for school tomorrow. Same goes for you Tsubasa." Genjuro said.
And with that all of them temporally left behind what they learn today and all agree to go home for a rest that they need, which is more true for Hibiki, Tsubasa and Eiji.
"Hino-san, Tachibana!" Tsubasa called out.
The mentioned duo turn around, just in their way to the Ride Vendor. They see Tsubasa run toward them with a conflicted yet determined expression.
"Anything we can help you with Tsubasa-chan?" Eiji asked, but finally seeing Tsubasa startled, Eiji widened his gaze. "Ah...sorry, did you feel uncomfortable? I can call you Kazanari again."
Genjuro have hit the nail right on the head, Eiji didn't really notice how he called the girl after the battle. But seeing the girl's expression make him become self aware of it, needless to said he didn't want to trouble the young girl just by the way he address her.
"Ah no, no." Thankfully, Tsubasa dispersed Eiji's worry right away. "You are my senior in life and in battle, there is nothing wrong with the way you address me, please do as you like. And it not uncomfortable, I just...admittedly not used to it." Tsubasa sounded somewhat...sheepishly?
In fact, her demeanor is a bit...familiar...
"Tsubasa-chan, could it be...you are shy around other?" Eiji asked curiously, without a hint of offend.
"Ah?" Though the way Tsubasa's expression frozen which is a good confirmation as any.
"Eiji-kun, it great Tsubasa-san let you call her the way you like, we should just leave at that eh?" Hibiki asked cheerfully.
Rather forcefully of course, what with the girl driving her elbow to Eiji's side, who quickly realize his slip up given his sheepish expression.
"Hm...it is just me or sometimes Hibiki-chan seems to have no issue be a bit more forceful? Expressive? in her speech when it come to me. Or maybe it one of those case where girls stick together?" Eiji honestly not sure.
And of course he isn't upset, rather amused by Hibiki's antics if anything. After all, he hasn't always been around but given how Hibiki interact with other, specifically Miku, he has a good grasp on how the girl use to take everything in stride more.
Back to the conversation at hand, seems like the duo antics have provided relief to the tension Tsubasa feel, this lead to the girl finally speak what plagued her mind ever since she free from the influence of the Yummy.
"Hino-san...I am sorry, it was foolish of me to blame you for what happened when your arrival was what saved Kanade's life!" Tsubasa spoke like a confession, giving the duo a deep bow. "While I can only stand there powerless, all this time I was projecting my frustration at myself on to you and Tachibana. For that you have my deepest apology." Tsubasa gritted out, her frustration and regret can only be describe as intense.
"It's fine Tsubasa-san, your close friend were in trouble after all. Eiji-kun said it didn't he? Our emotion can make us feel a bit lost sometimes but that just show how much we care for those close to us. What matter is you can move on to tomorrow right?" Hibiki said with a sympathized.
After all, Hibiki herself during that moment also temporally lose herself too and thought maybe her suffering can contribute to something. But Eiji was there, helping her realize her mistake. Now that the adreline have die down, Hibiki can't believe she didn't think of what Miku, her mother and grandmother would feel if she just throw her life away like that.
"Regardless, this is a stain of shame on my honor and pride as the Protector. Hence this is also me reaffirm myself." Tsubasa said before she bow to both of them. "I will be honored to have you two fight by my side. For believed in me and for looking pass my transgression, I swear on my Ame no Habakiri, that I will be giving it my all when fighting alongside you two. More than that, if there is anything I can provide assistance with, please let me know right away. It will be the least I can do." Tsubasa declared.
While Tsubasa honestly thought this barely meet the standard of an apology, both Eiji and Hibiki can only be described as floored by the intensity of how...apologetic? The young swordstress in front of them is. A glance was exchanged from helpless cream orbs to reluctant brown orbs. Finally the latter let out a small chuckle.
"Alright, I look forward to working with you from now on, Tsubasa-chan." Eiji said making Tsubasa snap her gaze up at him. "When the time come and the masses need your songs for their life, known I will be there to share the burden of battle with you." Eiji said.
He already decided it is pointless if not off-putting to the bluenette to just shrug off her apology. Instead, simply accepting it might just be what make her feel better too.
"Uhm. It will be my honor." Tsubasa said with a relieved, if not elegant, smile.
And judging by her reaction, Eiji was spot on.
"Uwah." Hibiki muttered in awe.
She has seen the polite smile of her idol during the stage, her smirk in battle, but to see this sincerity smile in front of her like this make the girl's heart skip a bit.
"Then you welcome to do the same, just call me Eiji is alright, if you want to add honorific that's fine too." Eiji offered.
"Ah no that is fine." Tsubasa quickly shot that idea down. "I find it more comfortable to address you as Hino-san."
The blue haired girl respond with fidget and rigid in her tone only serve to futher confirm a thought Eiji has.
"Aha! She is like Gotou-san."
"If you ever have anything, anything at all. Don't hesitate to consider for my help. Whatever it maybe, Kazanari Tsubasa's blades will always be ready for your need."
The blue haired idol's words are that of a samurai sworn an oath toward one benefactor. The weight she put in it signal Eiji his attempt to dissuade her would not work if not can be considered throwing mud to her sincerity.
"It's lucky of me to have your aide ready any time." Eiji said amicably. "I will try to think of a reasonable request." Eiji said lightheartedly.
Tsubasa cracked a small smile.
"Don't underestimate my Sword and Songs now, Hino-san. Feel free to bring me a challenging favor for me to demonstrate my capabilities." Tsubasa said, which might just be her equivalent of a joke. "Well then goodnight, Tachibana. I look forward to see more of your performance as fellow protector of humanity against the Noises." Tsubasa said with a calm smile, though her attempt to ignore what happen just now was clear.
Hibiki can't help but nod back with a goofy smile.
"Ah~ Please count on your biggest f- I mean your reliable junior! Please!" Hibiki saluted energetically, if her words not a bit slurred.
"Ah. She nervous to the point her sentence is tripping itself." Eiji thought with amusement and amazement.
After all it not everyday he can see a real life example of human's expression mimic a tomato.
Ankh also let out an amused snort from where he is. It seems thing look a bit okay for now, but given his experience it might not last long though.
Back to the mansion that was now also cover in the veil of night, a female figure walk through the hall of it. And if the glimpse of moonlight is any indication then beside a knee length black sock, she is naked for some reason. She then stopped, in front of her is a back of a black boss chair and someone seems to be sitting behind it.
"Just like we expected, he has make himself known to the 2nd Division." A soft, sensual and alluring feminine voice can be hear.
Now the moonlight got a chance to concentrate on her, the natural light reveal she has long blond hair that reach down to her waist, smooth, almost glistening like gold.
Meanwhile the chair turn around and sat on it is Poseidon in the form of Minato Michal, the last and only person Poseidon possessed. He gave her a chuckle while smoothly roll a Cell Medal, one of the many that just returned to him, across his knuckle.
"That's was to be expected right? And how is it? Your first impression of him?"
"He will be a problem." The woman simply said without elaborating.
This make the artificial Greeed Rider chuckled.
"That's a given, but do you think you can take him down? Knowing he no doubt would interfere with your plan?" Poseidon asked, taunted.
The woman didn't raise to the bait one bit.
"It not just a matter of strength. I can deal with those toys called the Relic, after all no one know about them better than me." The woman said with a grin before her smile faded. "But the Core Medals, the one know as OOO...he's an unknown to me. And nothing more troublesome and dangerous than an unknown variable in an equation. But...that's where you come in right?"
In response Poseidon just grin and release a pulse of his power, and despite his wounded state the women can still feel the vast power from it, truly like his namesake a power as wide as the ocean. The women even with all her powers and experience that exceed that of any human can't said she had seen that much of example for true power. Still she show her worth too by keeping a calm expression in face of such power, just because it rare doesn't mean she hasn't encounter power like that before after all.
Living in the legendary Age of Gods tend to allow one for such otherworldly experience.
"No need to show off, a simple 'yes' is fine. No matter what, it seems the male species always want to flaunt their superior around like it on sale." The woman commented coldly.
Poseidon, whether realize her attempt to keep calm or truly amused by the fact she stand up to him, simply give her a grin as he stood up from the chair.
"No need to be so snarky, we are currently partners right? As for your question, indeed my goal is to take down OOO. And I will complete it whether it will benefit you or not."
"Hmph. Then it is fine. With my planning and your might, we will be able to easily handle this unexpected interference." The woman said with an air of authority as she walk away.
"By the way...where is your little doll go?" Poseidon asked in amusement.
The women tilt her head around and look at him.
"Chris? Just keeping an eye on her target. She seems to be improving a bit training with you by the way, it seems once in a while a doll can show it worth after all."
"All in the name of love right?" Poseidon said humorously as the women didn't response and keep on walking away. "But it seems you got a fair share of experience on that regard too right?" Poseidon muttered to himself.
The Greeed can easily sense her desire and he got to admit, he never see the appeal in basic desire such as that. Then again, to simply want to fight is not that much more complicated anyway. Each with their own tastes he guess, he then look up to the dark night with the moonlight pierce through the thick cloud. Soon the storm will swipe through this land and that where his ultimate battle stage will be.
The Greeed is no doubt excited, a rematch against OOO that might even shock the Gods.
The Ride Vendor zip through the street, before Hibiki meet Eiji she never really see the appeal of it, but getting a backseat like this she certainly enjoy these ride. The cool breeze of wind wash through her face, plus at night like this, when the building all turn on their light, the speed they go make the lights more mesmerizing. There is certainly a rush, but the speed Eiji going at also somehow put Hibiki at ease, it let the girl once more reminiscence all that happened these past few days. It feel like a dream, but one thing is clear to Tachibana Hibiki. She is glad she got to meet Hino Eiji.
But to some, that feeling is the exact opposite. They simply see Hino Eiji's existence as a hindrance, an obstacle unnecessary for their plan. And that was the thought run through the mind of a white haired girl covered in an armor that seems to be like the Gungnir and Habakiri. Yet this Relic seems to be more armored than the other Gears with, it only color is pure white. Then dangling off her shoulders are two set of chains, made from unknown material that resemble violet jewel or crystal. Despite the distance being the top of the building she standing on, the white haired girl have no trouble seeing her target clearly, no doubt thanks to the visor equipped with the armor.
"Heh! One is an idiot who I just need to fetch, while the other is a nuisance that need to be taken care off. Well no matter really." She spoke confidently, looking at the object she hold, a curved silver staff. It's unique design is not enough to describe its worth, as the Gate of Babylon. The key to one of the most deadly legacy of the ancient civilization, Noises. While on her other hand are a few Cell Medals. "After all...dead man won't be that much of a nuisances anyway."
Next Time Kamen Rider OOO: Songtress of Desire.
"How dare you...make me break my promise!?" Hibiki yelled out.
"What do you want to do with your weapons?" Tsubasa asked with a stoic expression.
"For the Nehustan Armor to reveal itself now..." Genjuro mutter in shock.
"OUR WORDS LIE IN OUR STRIKES!" Tsubasa and Chris shouted at the same time.
"I need to finish them now...ANKH!" OOO call out.
[LION-TORA-CHEETAH! LA-TAH-LA-TAH! LATORATAR!]
Next Time: Crisis of the Nehustan Relic! Target is Hibiki!? The Lion's Brilliance!
And that's another chapters done, you know I really should have just make a new story instead of using the same one to upload my rewrite on. Now it just look like I have this story since 2013 and haven't finish it yet...I mean it true but it probably be better if they can tell it a rewrite hahaha. Oh well the ship is sail, here hope I can finish this season within this year. And once again thank you for reading my story hope you all at least have some fun doing it. Ciao. And Happy New Year.
