Hey all, PanickingNoob here, been a while eh? Here I am with a new chapter. But before that, as always just addressing some review!

Tenzalucard123: That's a cool idea, it a bit iffy for now though since I can't imagine how such a form will look and I'm not good with describing original design (^_^;).

5074: Thanks, nothing wrong with using an OC for your story of course, but I myself just enjoy matching the armor with the user we already know more haha. If anything it just show I don't know how to make an interesting OC myself for a protagonist.

Alright that's about it, do have some more words to said but that will be for at the end of the chapter.


Chapter 15: The Date! Acquaintances! And the Test!

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.

Though given the crossover the Symphogear mobile have that itself might not be a viable proof soon.


The tension is so thick in the air right now, one can cut through it with a knife. On one side is the line up of the 2nd Division agents and on another are Yukine Chris with Tachibana Hibiki and Hino Eiji standing next to her. While the silvernette already looking ready to go to a fist fight, needless to said Tachibana and Hino is hoping for a less violent solution out of this.

"You sure you bring enough people here?" Chris asked with a daring grin.

Facing such provocative questions from the person who wield one of the most destructive Relic, the agents is understandably nervous. They are all hand picked by Kazanari Genjuro, expert in the art of combat with training matching of the best of the army, it is nothing to scoff at. But in the end it is still within the 'reasonable' realm of human strength, even if they at the peak of it, they know in the face against the incredible strength a Symphogear wield, they would be no different than a bunch of toddler try to pick a fight against an adult.

Sadly while they did achieve additional training from Genjuro, that doesn't mean all of them can just suddenly start to punch boulder apart easily.

However.

"Oh we will be sure to bring more, we aren't underestimating a seasoned Gear User." One of the agent said stoically.

That is fine, is not like the agents have a delusion thought that they can just suddenly out-muscle or outgun the Ichaival, but if they can stall long enough, surely the might of the entire 2nd Division would be enough to contain the girl. That is not to mention their very own Gear User and the Kamen Rider, though given how said two person are standing next to the target, the agents understandably are nervous about how reliable they will be in the upcoming fight.

Still, the agents are the eyes and ears of the 2ndDivision, in their own way they are as vital as the Gear Users to the Division, naturally they have a good degree of understanding the personalities of their main fighters.

"Given what we know about them already, they probably won't make a rash move like outright helping out either one side. Even the worst scenario is just them standing by and be neutral, though the most likely action they will take is..."

"Wait! Just a moment please!"

Hibiki pleaded to everyone.

"...yep she is hoping to dissolve this fight peacefully."

One would wonder what both the Chris and the agent would think if they know they are secretively sharing the same thought.

"Apology, Tachibana-san but you must realize a fight is unavoidable unless Yukine-san here is willingly surrender herself to us." The agent said politely.

Hearing this, the cream haired girl flinched. She obviously know how slim a chances for that to happen, still she spared a glance at Yukine, who noticed this and send a deadpan stare back.

"Nope! She is definitely asking for a fight!" Hibiki cried inwardly.

At time like this she wish she can resolve the fight the same way she did when her friend argued. Perhaps it doesn't hurt to try?

"Uhm...how about we all talk about this over a meal instead? Hahahaha." Hibiki asked jokingly.

Because of this the deadpan stare she receive multiplied since it now coming from some of the agents as well, some even given her a pitiful look as if to said she tried. This make the girl wilted instantly.

"It's okay Hibiki-chan, you tried your best."

Eiji said encouragingly, patting the girl on her shoulder.

"Somehow that feel more hurt than a harsh comment." Hibiki sulked, one can almost see a raincloud hover over her head.

Hino would have like to continue to cheer her up, but sadly there are more pressing matters right now.

"Hibiki-chan is right, do you guys really have to do this? Was this order given by Genjuro-san?"

Eiji asked the agents.

He also purposefully positioned himself between them and Chris, much to the annoyance of both side. Still, the fact they don't ignore him and just start shooting at each other count is something at least.

"The purpose of the entire 2ndDivision is dealing with the Relic and Noises." The agent answered in an indirect manner, in a way Eiji can understand, is not like Genjuro can give out all types of command for all types of situation. At times like this, the field agents need to make their own decision and in a way they just fulfilling their duty. "We are not looking for a violent solutions, as mentioned before if Yukine-san is willing to, we are more than happy to resolve this in a civilized manner."

To his credit, the agent speak with sincerity in his tone despite the tense situation.

However, both Eiji and Chris known very well in these line of business, crafting a trustworthy persona is child play to these people. That is not to said the former is distrusting toward people who work under Genjuro, however he know for sure this isn't enough to make the silvernette waver.

"So in the end you still want me to follow you, if that's the case you don't have to worry. We can just skip the pleasantry and go straight to the part where we resolve this in an uncivilized manner, pal." Chris gloated with a sharp glare.

Not good, a brawl definitely gonna break out if they keep things going like this and that is something both Eiji and Hibiki can't let happen.

"Wait, let's wait for Shishou to arrive first okay? Surely we don't need to fight anymore." Hibiki pleaded once again.

"As always that's trait of your is troublesome, get out of the way or you gonna get hit by some stray blows." Chris warned.

Using the chance everyone is focusing on Hibiki, Eiji reached inside his pocket and took out his the mini Ride Vendor and quickly slot a Cell Medals into it. Then a blue can was produced by the Vendor into his hand, it quickly transformed into a Tako Candroid.

"Counting on you buddy." Eiji said, clapping his hand together. In response, the Tako Candroid raise one of its tentacle up as if to do a thumbs up, then float up to the sky. It then spat out a big amount of black ink that successfully obscured the view of everybody. "Chris-chan, use this chance and getaway please. You wouldn't want to cause anymore trouble for the people around here right?"

He asked urgently without giving the silvernette a chance of rebuttal.

As expected, this make Yukine hesitated as she clicked her tongue.

"Fine, picking a fight against me would just end up with them embarrassing themselves anyway. Might as well spare them the experience." Chris said, then look at Eiji. "You coming?"

"Well I do have to answer to the agents for messing up their works plus I have been away from my job for quite a while already I need to check up on my boss." Eiji said with an awkward chuckle. Plus, another reason is he know Chris has found a new answer for herself already, he doesn't has to be too worrying for the girl's safety anymore, that said... "We have each other contact info so it will be easy to get in touch, if you switch your safe house just let me know."

"Hm, got it, how many times do I need to said it, stop acting like you my mom." Chris said with a huff. It strange, the girl has wanted some alone times to herself but now knowing they will be parting temporarily, she actually feel a sense of longing. Of course, Chris would take on a Noises with bare hand before she admit to this feeling. "...See you later." She said quickly then left, her face has a soft smile obscured by the thick black smoke.

"Yeah, you too." Eiji said with a matching smile.

With that, Chris take her exit, by the time black mist cleared she is nowhere insight.

"Hah, I hope you understand the consequences of your actions, Hino-san." The agent said sternly.

Despite wearing the sunglasses, Eiji can easily tell the piercing glares all of the agents are giving him.

"I don't think I will be able to return to the shop just yet."Eiji thought.

CLICK.

And his thought is further confirmed when an object is slapped onto his wrist, a glistering silver handcuff.

"Ah, ah." Hibiki uttered in shock by the turn of event, then she grabbed Hino's hand. "Eiji-kun, don't worry, I support your actions, let's meet Shishou together, I'm sure he will understand." She said with a hopeful tone albeit a bit nervously.

"Hahaha, I sure hope he would." Eiji said with an strained tone.

The agents quickly 'escorted' both of them back to the 2nd Division.

Seriously, can't these pairs understand? The additional amount of paperwork they would have to deal now that Yukine Chris slipped from their hand would be astronomical! They seriously don't need that right now when weekend is coming up.

Both Eiji and Hibiki feel a big chill traveled down their spines as they follow the agents. Their lives isn't in danger...right?


Opening: Synchrogazer by Mizuki Nana.

Cover Image: A grinning Tachibana Hibiki hugging the arm of a flustering Yukine Chris and Kazanari Tsubasa who has a small frown, the background showing the city during sunset.


Later, at the 2ndDivision base.

"Well I suppose I should said it great to see you are safe, Eiji-kun." Sakurai Ryoko said with a lazy grin. "But to already get yourself arrested by my agents in the first day you come back? Truly you are always full of surprises."

In front of her, both Hino Eiji and Tachibana Hibiki shared a same flustered expression. And Eiji is still wearing the great gift courtesy of the 2nd Division's agents, the pair of handcuff.

Next to the scientist, is Kazanari Genjuro who has only listened to the agent report and said nothing. By the time the report is done, he also stare down at the duo, except his gaze is more stoic in nature.

"Just so you two know first, I'm not mad. Just a bit disappointed." Genjuro said.

Hibiki looked more guilty hearing this from her Shishou, while Eiji have a pondered expression.

"Genjuro-san, I just want you to know Chris-chan isn't with Fine anymore." Eiji began.

However, the red haired Commander raised his hand, cutting the man off.

"First of, it seems there is a lot of things we didn't know yet. While we have make some guess, it would be better to get a full account of what happened, if you don't mind, Eiji-kun." Genjuro said, then eyed the cuff before letting out a sigh. "And for God's sake would someone just take the cuff off please? This is ridiculous, is not like this alone is enough to restrain him if he want to leave anyway."

This make the man in question wince, why does that make it sound like he is some troublemaker?

"Hm...perhaps in a certain way I was, depend who you ask..." Eiji pondered.

With the cuff taken off by the ever helpful Ogawa Shinji, Eiji began to recount what happened to him these past two days. Starting with what happened since he left to chase after the silvernette, his unexpected encounter to Fine, albeit he didn't get to see her clearly through the monitor screen. Then the fight against the Poseidon and the event that lead to him return.

As his story is finished, everyone has an astonished expression.

"Man, to think you get into all that mess in just two days." Fujitaka Sakuya said, crossing his arms.

"I should said your luck is something alright, Hino-san." Tomosato Aoi added, shaking her head in disbelief.

"So Yukine Chris has found herself a new path, that is indeed a great news." Genjuro said with a small smile.

"That said, this mean it would have been much safer for her to come with us." Ogawa Shinji said with a sigh. "But, given it you, Eiji-san, it seems almost expected for you to do this." He said with an amused smile.

"Ah trust me, given Chris-chan's personality, she wouldn't want to come along quietly. I thought a fight between the 2nd Division and her to happen now would be pointless. So it best to let Chris-chan to do what she has to do now, this way she might trust us even more." Eiji hastily explained with a strained smile.

"Hm, it better for her to come to us herself eh?" Genjuro hummed. "But Eiji-kun, I of course understand the tragedies that Yukine Chris has to endure. It still didn't change the fact she has committed lots of crimes when working with Fine and using the Noises to attack the city. It better for us to be the one who take her in now, you understand what I mean right?"

How could he not? This isn't the first time Eiji was told the step some people would take to get their hand on lost technologies. In other words, right now Chris is all alone with no backup whatsoever, it is her against the world. Fine might not even have to spend any effort to hunt Chris down, various organization, either official or not, would want to do so. That said, Eiji can guess the woman wouldn't want anyone to learn any secret from Chris so the danger from her side is still there.

In situation like this, it definitely would have been better for Chris to be detained by the 2nd Division. Ignoring the fact she is indeed a criminal that need to paid for her crime, but this organization is the best bet of a safe haven for the girl.

Still...

"I know Chris-chan have no intent to runaway from her responsibilities so she would definitely come back, of course I have no intention of letting her face danger either." Eiji said with steel in his eyes.

This make Genjuro raised an eyebrows in response.

To Hibiki, this expression of Eiji is a good of guarantee as any that he not just making an empty promise. It is a great relief for the cream haired girl, who unknowingly sporting a similar expression.

"That's right, I wouldn't let any harm come to Chris-chan either. Eiji-kun, this time please don't leave me behind, I want to help her as well, you know that." Hibiki said, full of vigor.

"Hahaha, you were looking so tired that time so I have no choice, of course I wouldn't belittle your determination." Eiji said with a nod.

"Hm..." Ryoko who has been uncharacteristically quiet the entire time, closed her eyes with concentration as she listened to the story. She finally opened her eyes, showing a sharp glimpse. "So Eiji-kun, from what you telling us...you have spend more than a day alone with Chris-chan in an apartment?"

"..." A moment of silence in everyone mind.

"THAT'S THE PART YOU DECIDE TO FOCUS ON?!" Followed by this.

Well almost everybody, as Hibiki has a shocked expression on her face, as she finally noticed the, supposedly? Biggest problem here!

"Uwa...Uwahwah! Chris-chan is so sneaky! I'm not letting her hog Eiji-kun anymore!" Hibiki exploded.

It seems like the scientist's words has successfully crashed the poor cream haired girl mind as she doesn't even think about muffling her words anymore.

"Eh? Hibiki-chan what do you mean?" Eiji asked in bewilderment.

He can only stare at his friend then the scientist in stupefied shock. What a terrifying woman! She has completely driven Hibiki mad!

"Bruce Lee give me strength." Genjuro said, massaging his temple. "Must you do this every time we having an important discussion?"

He asked his friend with an annoyed expression.

"Hehehe, thing was getting to tense you know? Plus how could I miss such a God given opportunity?" Ryoko asked with star in her eyes.

"I'm glad we are all getting our priority straight here." Aoi said with a tired chuckle.

"Hibiki-chan, I think it more important right now to figure out what would this Fine person do next now that Chris-chan have gotten away from them?"

Eiji asked, raising his hands up to placate the restless Hibiki.

At the mention of this, the mood become serious again, the cream haired girl understand this involve the safety of Yukine Chris.

"As I thought, it is best she is detained by us quickly. First of, we really can't write off her crimes. Second, it will provide the best security for her." Aoi offered her opinion with a hand to her chin.

"Hah...the problem is Chris-chan have no intention of running away from her responsibilities." Eiji rebutted softly. "If anything she probably just want to do it once she has properly settled thing with Fine." He said confidently.

"But that sound dangerous isn't? This Fine character sound extremely intelligent not to mention we can guess she must have quite an amount of resource backing her up given her scope of operation." Sakuya said with a doubtful frown.

"Hence it would be best for her to just work with us eh?" Ryoko said, pushing her glasses up then glanced at the now quiet girl next to her. "Hibiki-chan, don't you think so too? You would want to help her right?"

"Yes, however..." Hibiki murmured in thought. "I can see where Eiji-kun is coming from, Chris-chan won't accept our help so easily. She really seeing this as her responsibilities and it matter of her own pride as well. That's the feeling I got from Chris-chan." She said without hesitation.

The scientist blinked in surprise then shifted an annoyed glance at her friend who has a subtle grin.

"Is this one of those irrational moment you mention when someone somehow can actually understand each other after getting into a brawl of all thing?" Ryoko asked incredulously.

"Heh, who know? Not everything can be explained by logic all the time, Ryoko-kun. Isn't that what you accept as well?" Genjuro asked, crossing his arms, clearly amused.

"Yeah, but only when it come to pure emotion like love." Ryoko said with a dramatic swoon then in a complete 180 give her friend a sting eyes again. "Not in those barbaric behavior, I think you are a bad influence on our dear Hibiki-chan." She said, waggling her index fingers in a disapproving manner.

"Apology, just leave them like this, it usually only take them about few minutes to return back to us Earthlings." Sakuya said jokingly with a shrug.

Both Eiji and Hibiki nodded with a sweat-drop, seeing the commander and scientist of the Division descend down into heated argument between romance and actions genre.

"Well I see we are engaging into the core of a matter on a timely manner." A criticized voice rang out.

The reactions are instant, Genjuro go from engaging in idle talk to battle ready as he dash forward the voice of the intruder, Shinji also dashed toward the figure at incredible speed for a human.

"Ah wait!" Eiji called out.

He quickly dash in between before both the martial art master and the ninja can attack the newcomer. After all, it hard for Hino to not recognize who the voice belong to.

"Hmph, quite a nice greeting you guys have." Ankh, in his human form, said with a scowl.

"Your friend Eiji-kun? How does he manage to get in here?" Genjuro asked cautiously, still keeping his fist clench.

"Well obviously because I was granted access by you guys." Ankh said, raising his Greeed arm up.

Seeing this, both Genjuro and Shinji relaxed their stances, though everyone except Eiji has a surprised and intrigued expression.

"Ankh-san? So you regained your body." Shinji said.

He along with the other of the 2nd Division got the brief summary of Ankh's situation from Eiji already, that still doesn't completely stop the surprise though.

"Hohoho, interesting, so this is your human form?" Ryoko asked, a hand to her chin as she already by Ankh's side, scrutinizing him up and down. "Not a bad form for sure." She said with a grin.

"Hmph whatever, now that I am like this, don't think you can just treat me as a lab rat easily as you did before woman." Ankh said with a huff, crossing his arms.

Though Eiji notice the Greeed clearly still trying to subtly inching away from the scientist, the trauma must run deep for sure.

"Nice to meet you Ankh-san, this is the first time we meet like this eh? Must have been hard for you to just float around as an arm all this time." Hibiki greeted cheerfully at the Greeed. "Now that you have your human form, we can celebrate it with a meal at Sunflower store!"

"Argh, I guess one of the downside is now that I am like this, it harder to hide from your nosiness than when I am an arm." Ankh said with a huff, however his voice lack the usual heat in it.

"Eh? I am that troublesome?" Hibiki asked, her expression drooped down, almost like a kicked puppy.

"Tch, do whatever you want, as long as the meal has ice cream involved, I am satisfied." Ankh said, turning a way from the girl. "And? Any new plan you guys cook up against your enemy yet?" He asked, crossing his arms.

"I'm surprised Hibiki-chan, even for me it took me lots of trial and long time for Ankh to behave like this. It his own way of saying he is fine with you."

Eiji whispered to the cream haired girl's ear.

"Really?" Hibiki asked with a delighted surprise.

Eiji about to nod but he quickly notice a heated glare from the not so amused Ankh, this make the man quickly look the other way, whistling not so innocently.

As the Greeed turn around, he see that those like Sakuya and Aoi still looking at him like he grew a second hand. Though in his case, a whole body, one can see why they still need a few more minutes for everything to settling. Too bad Ankh isn't exactly the understanding type.

"If you all done gawking at me, are we actually trying to get anything done here or should we call it a day already?" Ankh asked snarkily.

Hearing this snapped the two computer experts out of their stupor.

"Yep...that...sound like Ankh alright." Sakuya said, scratching the back of his head.

"No doubt about it." Aoi agreed with a nod.

"I take it this guy here has given you all an update on his most recent idiotic adventure?" Ankh asked, crossing his arms.

"Ankh-san, don't said that! Thanks to it, Chris-chan have stopped being our enemy now." Hibiki said defensively.

The Greeed merely let out a huff and said nothing else, likely that is his way of admitting the cream haired girl point.

"Ah-hem." Genjuro coughed into his fist, a sign for the discussion to continue. "Alright then. Now that we know Fine side has one Gear User short, this could be the chance for us to be on the offensive side for once." He said with a stern expression, the man want to make sure the next step they make the best move they could right now. "While the presence of Poseidon can't be ignored, as well as the Noises under her command, their force must be reduced somewhat compare to before."

"Then do you have a plan of attack?" Eiji asked.

"We are currently tracing the trait from the mansion, while the location itself is smithereens now..." Shinji said with a small smile while Eiji let out an embarrassed chuckle. "The fact we know who owned it provided a small hint."

"Hoh? It hard to believe this Fine would leave such easy bread crumb to follow." Ryoko asked with interest.

"Of course the trait is very small, this Fine is a formidable opponent but couple this with the clue we been gathering has yield some interesting result." Shinji said confidently.

Hibiki feel some of these talks can get too complicated for her sometimes, yet even she can understand what this mean. This would mean they are getting closer to a full confrontation against the mysterious woman who controlling the Noises. A big fight for sure and while the girl will not drop her ideal of conversations are possible between all party, she also know the chance that's all it gonna take to resolve the issue is very slim, just like against Chris back then, she need to prepare for more hard battles in the upcoming future.

It is definitely not a comforting thought, but knowing the 2nd Division, Ankh and of course Eiji will be on the front line of this battle give the girl all the motivation she need. Not to mention, she can't just let the Noises keep ruining the life of innocent people.


"Sorry for taking so many days off so suddenly, Boss Lady." Eiji apologized with a sheepish expression as he give a light bow.

"Hahaha, it's not like I haven't used to work alone before you came anyway, don't worry about it. That said, I would appreciate if you give me a heads up earlier next time." Boss Lady said in a teasing tone, wiping one of the plate. "And, you are Ankh-kun is it?"

She asked toward the new face around here.

After the meeting has been concluded, Eiji and Ankh returned to the Sunflower shop. Of course this mean a new introduction is needed even though the Greeed has been a residency in this place at the same time as Hino, not that the Boss Lady is aware of that.

"Yes! He is the friend I told you about, because of various circumstance he is without a place to stay right now." Eiji said earnestly, pushing Ankh in front of him to face the Boss Lady, he also try to make sure the Greeed didn't make a scowling face at the person who would provide both of them a place to stay, well in his case is continuing to do so. "I can vouch for him and he will help out with the work as well! Please, let him share the room with me!"

"Well not that I mind but it more for your convenience's sake, Eiji-kun. You sure both of you can stay in that small room?" Boss Lady asked worriedly.

"It's no problem at all we used to this setting already, the fact you willing to provide a place for us to stay is already enough." Eiji said with a relieved smile.

"Oi, oi. None of that." Boss Lady said, playfully hitting Eiji's head with the plate she cleaning. "The way you said it make me sound like a slave driver or something." She said with a grin then giving Ankh a look over once more. "Hm...your appearance is fine, hair dyeing and flamboyant style isn't a problem by itself, but you definitely need to work on a smile. Can't have you scare away the customer now can we?"

The Greeed would have few less than pleasant words as a retort ready, if not for the fact Hino already clamp his mouth shut while having a nervous chuckle.

"Indeed you are right! In fact, I will make sure to coach him about that right now! Goodnight Boss Lady!"

After saying that, Eiji rushed Ankh up to their room in a blink of an eyes, his employer stared at their retreating figure then let out a sigh.

"Really, what a troublesome guy I hired." Boss Lady said with an amused chuckle.


At an undisclosed location, there is a dark room, filled with strange machinery. Some is operate by following the law of physics, yet some seems unexplainable even by modern science. The machinery is run by following the peak of both science and magic, or in this case, alchemy. And the owner of this location has an appearance that would have fooled most people, said owner sit in a throne in the middle of the room. She is closing her eyes, seemingly in sleep. Around her, on spinning pedestals are multiple colorful dolls with a very human like expression.

Of course they would be even more human like when they start moving, but right now they have no duties needed to be carry out for their master, so they are in rest mode right now.

Their master, the blond haired little girl who is resting, is named Carol Malus Dienheim, the leader of the Alchemy Cult and a very powerful alchemist, possibly one of the top 10 in the world right now. However, that is of no matter to the girl, all of it is just a means to the end of her ultimate goal. Right now her plan is in slow motion, but she is in no rush. Despite her appearance, the girl has been alive for very long time. Patience is a virtue she doesn't lack, hence she is using this moment to think over the plan process while getting some deserved rest of mind.

That is until Carol received a communication signal she didn't expect.

"And to what do I own this pleasure, Fine?" Carol asked dryly.

Sprang to life in front of her is the hologram screen show the blond haired woman who command the Noises.

"Now don't be so cold, Carol-chan, can't I simply call you for old time's sake? Remember how close we are back then?" Fine asked in a joyful manner.

"Hm, by that are you are you talking about the time in England back in 1455? Or is it Egypt back in 1807?" Carol asked, clearly not amused.

Judging by her voices, those encounter isn't as 'joyful' as Fine make them out to be.

"Come now, Carol-chan." Fine said, waggling her finger playfully. "You know how the saying go 'holding a grudge doesn't make you strong, it make you bitter'."

At this Carol snorted, last she checked, both of them are not a monk. And they both are also the furthest thing away from being religious, though in Fine's case it a bit more complicated.

More importantly, Carol know this woman can only sprout this crap simply because their last encounter ended in Fine's favor, not that Carol suffer much from it mind you, except for a bruised ego due to falling short slightly at the last moment. That result in a valuable research document fall into Fine's hand, thus set Carol's plan back for a few years. Though as stated, patience is her strong point and time is not something either of them lack, in their own way the two woman have surpassed the limit of a human lifespan.

So, not enemy, the competition was pure business as far as two of them consider. While it is a sore memory for the one who fall short, both of them known it not worth making an enemy out of another immortal but they also the furthest thing away from being friends. At worst, they are competitor, at best they are acquaintance.

"Enough chit chat, if you won't state your business then leave me be. I have no intention of partaking in your foolish quest." Carol said dismissively.

"Hahaha is my foolish quest anymore asinine than your?" Fine shot back, this got her a glare from the blond haired alchemist. Pissing off the girl is interesting in its own way but it will destroy the whole reason she is here, so the blonde woman held back. "Alright, that is my bad. Really I am calling because I thought you will be interest in this, have you catch up with the news lately?" She asked mysteriously.

Obviously, the news Fine referring to isn't something one found by turning up the news channel in afternoon.

"Hmph, my attention was on my research, not really have time to snoop around lately. Just out with it, what's your game this time, Fine?" Carol asked doubtfully.

"Merely thought you will be interested in a new player I encountered recently." Fine said with a mischievous smile.

Now this, earned a quirked eyebrows from Carol, showing she is intrigued. Fine is many thing, but she isn't one to gather one attention only to embarrass herself. If the blond haired woman said there is something that could interest Carol with such confidence? Maybe the blond haired alchemist can spare a few minutes.

What is that for someone who has all the time she need?


In a way, Ankh's employment to the Sunflower shop pretty much recreated the atmosphere at Cous Cossier. His help is minimum, only pushed to it by Eiji's bribery of ice cream. Naturally one shouldn't expect the guy to actually follow through with a duty of a waiter, bur he at least set up the table and chairs while occasionally help with washing the dish. Of course, Eiji know better than let Ankh handle any job that require him to interact with the customers, he wouldn't want to make the Sunflower shop lose its diner after all.

The sound of the door rang, showing another potential customer just walk through.

"Welcom- ah Hibiki-chan. Good afternoon." Eiji greeted.

"Hi, Eiji-kun. Hey can I ask you something?" Hibiki asked excitedly.

"Sure, what do you need?" Eiji asked curiously.

"Well, do you by chance have Chris-chan's phone number?" Hibiki asked, fidgeting around, as if she on some sort of secret mission.

"Ah, that I do." Eiji said, nodding his head.

"Then can you send her a message for me?" Hibiki asked.

"If you want I can give you her number, I think it might surprise her but she won't mind." Eiji offered.

But the cream haired girl shook her head.

"No it's fine! I prefer to get it from her directly." Hibiki said confidently.

"Okay then." Eiji said quizzically, not fully understand the girl's intetion but decide to let it be. "Then what do you want me to tell her?"

"I want to see if Chris-chan interested in going on a girls hangout with me, Miku and Tsubasa-san!" Hibiki exclaimed with beaming smile.

"...Eh?"


"You gotta be kidding me, what make you think this is a good idea?"

Eiji feel like he can imagine Yukine Chris's deadpan by just hearing her voice through his phone.

"Well, think of it this way, this is a good chance for you guys to make up with each other? What with all the misunderstanding you guys have?" Eiji tried weakly.

On the other line, the silvernette scoffed.

"Is that's what you call me endangering Tachibana Hibiki and almost killed her multiple times?" Chris asked in deadpan. "You sure she is your friend?"

Hino feel an arrow strike at his heart, of course he by no mean belittle the danger his friend faced. However, he has no intention of pin the blame on Chris who is also a victim in her own right, of course it clear the girl herself doesn't share the sentiment. Not to mention, it is Hibiki herself who begged Eiji to make sure Chris accept the invitation.

"Alright, time to change the approach!" Eiji thought.

"Well, Hibiki mentioned she and Miku know all the good sweet shops around the area, plus they will also try out various arcade store as well." Eiji said, the other line went silence, not bad but not good enough either. "Also, safe to said Fine hasn't given up on Hibiki-chan yet so isn't this a chance for you to guard her easier?"

"Well...That's not wrong I suppose." Chris said unsure.

Time for the final nail in the coffin.

"Plus you said it yourself, you have caused much trouble for Hibiki-chan right? She said this is a way for you to make it up for her." Eiji said with a wide smile.

"...Why can I already imagine the cheeky smile you have right now?" Chris asked with suspicion.

"Eh?" Eiji instantly frozen. "That just your imagination Chris-chan, well what do you said?" He asked hopefully.

"Hah...well, what's the worst could happen I suppose." Chris muttered in a resign manner.

Cue a small fist pump from Hino, mission accomplished.


As she reviewed the footage showing Kamen Rider OOO's battle provided by Fine, Carol Malus Dienheim hummed in thought. So the one time she decided to take a break and rest, the world show such a new variable, an interesting surprise indeed. A whole new different system of alchemy from another world, a concept even an immortal like her hasn't come across before during her long lifetime until now. It is this moment a memory of a dearest person flashed in her mind, for once it is not filled with regret but another nice simpler time...

"Remember Carol, no matter how much one thought they already learnt from it, life still has a new things to teach you. It is a best teacher one can ask for."

The girl's stone faced expression faltered for a slight second as a frown make it way through because of the memory, it quickly faded though. Now onto business, what should we do with this? At it stand it's not like this OOO is her problem, it is Fine. The alchemist of course is not blind to what the blond haired woman trying to do, clearly this man has managed to bring a decent amount of problems to Fine, a fact that almost make Carol's face break into a satisfied smile. Hence that woman decide to bring his existence to her attention, if Carol isn't interested then that's that but by chances she does?

Then OOO will have a more than Fine to worry about, giving the latter more free time from the meddling Rider, a win win for Fine.

And while Carol has no intention of playing into Fine's ruse, there really no much lost for her if she intervene, plus the idea of learning more about an otherworldly alchemy power, might yield unexpected result for her plan. All in all? Carol suppose she can afford to 'play' around a bit with this newcomer.

"Hm...let said it a late welcome party from one alchemist to another."


"So what do you think Ankh?" Eiji asked.

Hino has just recounted the encounter he has against Poseidon to the blond haired man, who quietly listened the entire time. There are a few times his eyes twitched, scowl formed, as he listened to the tale. In fact the scowl is still on his face right now, but he hasn't said anything, until now.

"Goddamn it Eiji, you are an idiot. How you not dead yet is still one of the greatest mystery in life to me." Ankh groaned, holding his forehead in annoyance. "From what you told me that damn fake just become more annoying and dangerous, the move you pulled could have ended badly given Poseidon's personalities are so random now."

"Well I guess I got lucky." Eiji admitted sheepishly, scratching the side of his cheek, then his expression turned serious. "So, you think this is due to all the Core Medals?"

"At this point there no other reason." Ankh said with a scoff. "That thing got greedy, it absorbed the so called Galaxy King's powers on top of all the Core Medals it has. Now as the result the domain personalities related to the Greeed of those Core Medals are influencing Poseidon to the level he can't control anymore." He then sneered. "I would have laughed at the foolishness of that thing but it annoying how this make it more dangerous in a way one won't know how it will behave."

"I think his main personalities is still strong enough to hold on consistently." Eiji said, crossing his arms with a contemplating look. "The problem is during the heat of battle that could change any moment." He said frustrated.

"Hmph, can't believe I will said this." Ankh said with an incredulous snort. "But our best bet is hoping that thing has enough self control to not let those other personalities infect him and then we will finish him off before he can make any unexpected actions."

"That oddly optimistic of you?" Eiji asked with a raised eyebrow.

"That's because you clearly don't have a better idea right now." Ankh shot back with an annoyed look.

"That's harsh Ankh." Eiji whined playfully, all he got in return is a flat glare from Ankh. "But fair." He relented.

"Whatever, I will head to bed, perhaps some peace and quiet instead of all this mess will give me some new idea." Ankh said.

Then without another words, he jumped on the bed and closed his eyes.

With a shrug, Eiji settled on the sofa, his thought then went to Hibiki and what she planned for tomorrow. And in a certain way, what she is doing would be as hard as facing Poseidon.

"Best of luck Hibiki-chan."

Something tell Eiji she will need it.


In the morning, standing in the midst of bursting street of the mall are Tachibana Hibiki and Kohinata Miku.

"That's weird, it been 20 minutes already?" Hibiki pondered, waiting for two more person to arrive. "I'm sure Tsubasa-san is excited for this, and Eiji-kun is sure Chris-chan promised to come..."

The cream haired girl is currently wearing short jean, black shirt and yellow blazer and wearing a yellow sneakers.

"Perhaps they just not familiar with this street?" Kohinata Miku guessed.

She is currently wearing a white skirt, beige short sleeved t-shirt, a small black casual coat and purple sneakers.

"I hope so." Hibiki said nervously, honestly speaking, gathering everyone is just the beginning and it already seems to be complicated. "And then there's the part I hope they actually get along as well." She muttered with a sweat-drop.

Before Miku can ask what her friend mean, a voice draw both of their attention.

"Excuse me for being late, I got a bit sidetracked with the preparation." Kazanari Tsubasa said.

Both of the girls looked behind their back, sure enough, standing there is the famous blue haired idol. Dressed in a white sundress, with sun hat matching in color, a blue silk pants and white sandal. The silk pants, while also for stylish purpose, is also to hide the healing scar of her legs to avoid drawing too much attentions on the idol.

Both Hibiki and Miku subconsciously let out an awed wow as they saw their favorite singer in such beautiful outfit, this make the bluenette a bit nervous.

"Sorry, was it too flashy?" Tsubasa asked.

Safe to said, she was very serious about choosing a right outfit for this outing.

"No, no. We just awed that's all!"

Hibiki quickly try to assure her idol, with Miku nodding rapidly in agreement next to her.

"I see." Tsubasa let out a sigh of relief hearing this. "Then, where should we go first?" She asked, eyes twinkling with excitement.

"Well we actually still missing one person." Hibiki said with an embarrassed smile.

"Hm? Who? I thought you not gonna invite Hino-san." Tsubasa asked, tilting her head.

"Eh no, is not him." Hibiki said, averting her eyes away.

"She talking about me, blue hair."

A snarky familiar voice to Tsubasa and Miku, called out.

""You!?"" Both Miku and Tsubasa exclaimed.

Though both of them are equally surprised, only the latter have the additional feeling of alarm and irritation.

"Hm? Oh, didn't expect to see you here. Wait, don't tell me you are this kid's friend?" Yukine Chris asked Miku with an incredulous expression, then she let out a dry chuckle. "Hah, what a small world."

"What are you doing here, Yukine Chris?" Tsubasa asked warily. "I heard of your circumstances, but that doesn't mean I will just overlook all of your past actions, if you looking to cause trouble..."

"Ah no!" Hibiki quickly interrupted before thing get too heated, though it might already is. "I invited her you see!"

"Heh, see? This isn't my idea Ms. Idol." Chris said, crossing her arms with a huff.

"You what?" Tsubasa asked in bewilderment. "Tachibana, did you just suffer a blow to the head? Haven't you forgotten the harm she brought to you?" She asked.

"Wait...Chris-san is the person you guys fought against?" Miku asked in disbelief.

"Yeah." Hibiki said, rubbing the back of her head sheepishly. "I didn't expect you guys to already know each other." She said looking at Miku and Chris, then turned her attention to her senior Gear User. "Tsubasa-san, of course I understand what you said. But to put it simply, I believe Chris-chan just did what she believe is right at the time, she know better now and working to repent for her past actions. So why can't we try to get along as fellow Gear Users, who use our songs to help other?" She pleaded.

Tsubasa along with Chris both released a sigh at the same time, once again they were shown how nice this girl is, perhaps a bit too much, to the point one can't help but worry for her safety.

Miku, who is already used to this can only let out a given up smile, she pretty much understood the situation already. Who would have thought the girl who given her advice unwittingly after saving her back then was the person who was fighting against Hibiki and the other? But it seems to all be in the past now.

"It's not that simple Tachibana, I am not saying one doesn't deserve a chance of redemption, however that also mean she need to be paying for her crime. Not being free doing whatever she want like nothing happened." Tsubasa said sternly.

"Oi, do none of you 2nd Division stuck up understand human language?" Chris said, annoyed. "I'm not running away from my own responsibilities, I'm just saying I will start them once I taken care of my business."

"And what give you the right to make such demand after what you done?" Tsubasa asked, crossing her arms, narrowing her eyes.

"Hm, as far as I known, might make right isn't? It mine own decision to turn myself in eventually, if you have a way to force me to do it now, then try it." Chris said challengingly, doing a bring-it-on gesture with her hand.

Even Miku who isn't directly involved in all this business feel like face faulting, the silvernette definitely isn't making her case looking any better with her attitude.

"Such words, shall I take that as a challenge?" Tsubasa asked with steel in her eyes, shifting her stance into one ready for battle.

"Please listen to me already!" Hibiki suddenly shouted loudly.

Not only did she succeed in interrupting the fight that almost break out, she also gathered all the attentions on her. And by that it mean the ENTIRE street focused their attentions on her, not just the one the cream haired girl aimed her words at. Usually this would be enough to make Tachibana feel embarrassed, but right now she is determined to make this date work!

"Jesus, did you swallowed a speaker or something?" Chris asked in annoyance, digging a finger to her ears.

"Tachibana, it not wise to gather attentions onto us." Tsubasa said in a similar manner, wincing slightly from the surprised volume.

Miku who already used to her friend's antic covered her ears the moment she saw Tachibana take a deep breath.

"I was the one who asked everyone to come here today, because I truly believe we have no more reason to fight." Hibiki said, not wanting to waste this chance now that she finally gathered everyone's attention. "Tsubasa-san, you trust my decision right?" She asked with resolute in her eyes.

"That..." Tsubasa muttered.

"And Chris-chan, you want to make up for me due to all the time you tried to hunt me right?" Hibiki asked again with the same level of resolute.

"W- well..." Chris for once stammered.

"Be it a favor or a repayment for whatever reason, can both of you give this a chance just for today? No, just for a few hours! We are all those who use our songs to protect everyone from the Noises, I want us to get a chance to understand each other." Hibiki said calmly and warmly, her usual carefree attitude momentarily forgotten.

Both the bluenette and silvernette stared at each other in silence, a same thought going through their mind.

"This is pointless."

"Hah, whatever, don't blame me if this lead to some big mess." Chris said, crossing her arms grumpily.

"As long as she know her manner, I can ignore her existence just for today." Tsubasa said with a cold tone.

And yet at the same time, due to their own reasons they don't want to deny the heartfelt request of Tachibana Hibiki, hence both of them begrudgingly accepted this strange date.

Meanwhile, watching from the sideline, Kohinata can't help but has a dumbfounded expression.

"W...Was Hibiki always been so manipulative?" Miku thought in awe.


Meanwhile, standing on a tall building, watching the entire city is a young boy. He has short blond hair, with a lean built, dressed in dark pant, white button up shirt and a red sleeveless coat. In fact, if one know how Carol Malus Dienheim look like they would think they are looking at her twin brother. But this is actually a homunculus name Noelle created by the girl using alchemy, she has many homunculus, all powerful in their own right and absolutely obedient to her. And right now, Noelle is fulfilling one of the order given to him by Carol, to find and test the one known as Kamen Rider OOO, Hino Eiji.

"Now then...what would be the best course of actions to draw Hino-san out, I wonder?" Noelle pondered, putting his fist under his chin. The homunculus talk about his target so politely, like he is thinking how to ask for a raise from his boss. "Should I destroy the city? Or perhaps hold a bunch of human's hostage? The man's actions clearly paint him as a typical delusional naïve man who think himself a hero..."

Yes, such is a perfect way to describe whoever act like they fight for other. After all, if real heroism exist, then his Master wouldn't have suffered nor would she embark on her current journey. Regardless, the boy's actions are clear. His Master want him to test the newcomer's capabilities and him alone only. Causing a wide scale event might attract the attention of other, such as the Symphogear wielders and the 2nd Division. And while a clash against them is not something his Master would shy from nor can she avoid it given her future plans, now is simply not the time for it yet. So that's leave one certain way.


Back to Eiji, he is out on an errand for the Boss. Walking back from the grocery store, the man hummed a cheery tune. But unbeknownst to Hino, his simple errand is about to be derailed in quite a chaotic way.

"Help me! Please!" A voice of a young boy shouted.

Alarmed, Eiji quickly look around to find the source and saw a young man with blond hair being carried away by a supposedly stone monster. The course of actions are clear for Hino, he quickly sprint after them to help. However, the monster make a huge leap, carrying its and the boy far away. Not one to give up just because of that, Eiji quickly take out his OOO Driver. In a quick movement, the belt has latched onto his waist with the Core Medals slotted in.

"Henshin!"

[TAKA-TORA-BATTA! TATOBA! TATOBA! TATOBA!]

With the armor equipped, Kamen Rider OOO easily catch on to the pace of the monster by making a high leap himself.

Eventually, the Rider chased the monster and the boy into a nearby forest. Just when OOO trying to figure out how to safely retrieve the kid from the monster's grasp, the latter stopped running and turned around to face him. Even more curiously, it gently put the boy on the ground, who has stopped showing a scared expression from few seconds ago and instead now have a more composed look. Already, the Rider knew something isn't right.

"Thank you for coming to my rescue. Though as you can see, I am completely fine. Unfortunately, depend on how well you do on the test, I can't guarantee the same for you. That would be rude of me, so I would ask for your forgiveness beforehand." Noelle said calmly, bowing with one hand on his chest.

"There seems to be some misunderstanding, I don't have any reason to fight you." OOO said, already understand the boy's intention. "If you not in any danger then please be careful on your way home." He said amicably, turning around to leave.

"Hm...it is good if you retreat so easily, that's mean getting Tachibana Hibiki wouldn't be difficult." Noelle said with a small smile.

This make the Rider paused in his step.

"Hibiki-chan is strong, she also protected by the 2nd Division. You will just hurt yourself if you try." OOO said, his voice gaining some edge to it.

"Well, I'm sure the kind-hearted Tachibana Hibiki wouldn't put her guard up against a harmless kid right?" Noelle countered. "By the time she realized, it might be too late." He said.

With a touch to the ground, the rocks rise up around him then launched itself toward the Rider. In response, OOO kicked them all away effortlessly. This is merely a demonstrating shot from Noelle, he hasn't even tried yet. But the message is clear.

"Must we really do this?" OOO asked one last time, hoping a peaceful solution.

However, he can't do that if this dangerous individual keep threatening his friend.

"Oh we don't have to, then you can wallow in despair for allowing someone like me to take your friend away. Beside surely you must have noticed." Noelle said, his soft smile faded away to a blank cold expression. "I am different from you human."

Indeed the Rider has, his Taka eyesight allowed him to analyze the being in front of him. And despite having an appearance of a child, he is far from being human, he is like some kind of living construct, almost like...

"The Greeed..." OOO thought.

Of course, the boy in front of him isn't make up of Core and Cell Medals so that's where the similarity end. Still, this make the Rider put on his guard. He already saw the boy has some kind of ability to manipulate that rock monster, is that the only power he has or is there something more? OOO about to find out because his opponent is already taking the initiative.

"Since you still clearly hesitate, let me give you another sign that holding back would be foolish for you." Noelle said.

He then put his hand onto the tree next to him, a flash of green light occurred then the tree twist and turned. Then all the leaves on it shot toward OOO, sharp like shuriken. The Rider unfolded his claws and swatted away the projectiles, some of them hit the nearby tree, easily cutting through the thick trunk.

"So he manipulate not just the rock but the tree as well? Or is it anything he touch?" OOO thought.

The Rider soon got his answer, with a wave of his hand, Noelle send a gust of wind toward OOO. Pulling him high into the air then dropped him down to the ground in a crash. The Rider quickly get back into his feet, shaking the slight daze away from the high drop.

"You sure not kidding, that is amazing." OOO commented, rolling his shoulder.

"I'm glad you enjoyed that, these are just pony tricks compare to what I can really do, I assure you." Noelle said, flexing his hand. "Though the same can't be said to you, I sure hope being a punching bag isn't all you can do." He said.

"I guess we will see eh?" OOO said.

Playing Kamen Rider OOO Regret Nothin Tighten Up.

With that he leap toward the homunculus, who in response send another gust of wind at the Rider. But this time he already anticipated it, thus OOO deliver a powerful straight kick, the pressure from it canceled out the gust of wind. Noelle let out an intrigued hum, then snapped his finger. A barrage of stone shot toward OOO, who twisted his body to avoid a few of them then skillfully used the rest as literal stepping stone to close the distance between him and the homunculus.

"You should be careful where you walking." Noelle said with a smirk.

The stones OOO is stepping on start to have crack spread out then...

BOOM! BOOM! BOOM!

All the stones exploded mid-air, engulfing the Rider in the explosion. Noelle has no intention of fooling himself that this would hurt the Rider so he waited cautiously, even then he wasn't able to react in time when OOO shot through the smoke like a missile and continue to charge toward him. In response, Noelle quickly conjured a circular alchemy barrier with various words and symbols on it.

CLANK! WHOOSH!

Kamen Rider OOO slammed into the barrier, kicking up a shockwave. Other than that, not a crack can be seen on the barrier. Should the Rider pour more strength into it? But even now he hasn't really want this fight, he still hoping an amicable end can be found. Yet, would this really mean the homunculus would mean harm toward his friend? In that cases, can he afford to take it easy?

Just when the Rider still stuck in his own dilemma, Noelle already prepare another attack. This time the young homunculus conjured a fireball in the palm of his hand, he then hurled it toward the armored warrior. OOO saw the fire ball coming toward him so he slashed down with both of his claws, this bisected the giant fireball to multiple smaller orb as they all scattered.

However, this was what the homunculus expected.

"You easily cut it just as I expected." Noelle said with a smile.

He then clapped both of his hand together, this also make the fireballs fragments combined together again.

"Eh?" OOO muttered in shock.

End Song.

Given the position he stood, the Rider was in the center when the fireball reformed itself. Thus, he is now locked inside a fire prison that can burn him to death. No, rather than burn him, the fireball exploded with OOO still in the epic center. The impact shook a wide area, spreading fire everywhere. Despite this, Noelle stand amidst all this destruction with a focus expression, his gaze never leave the spot where OOO is. He continue to do so for a few seconds, yet there is no movement except for the spreading flame.

"Is that it?" Noelle muttered.

And that's when he received an answer.

"Be careful, we wouldn't want a forest fire to start now would we?"

The voice undoubtedly belong to OOO can be heard from inside the flame, followed by another sound.

[SHACHI! UNAGI! TAKO! SHA-SHA-SHAUTA! SHA-SHA-SHAUTA!]

Playing Kamen Rider OOO Shout Out.

Following that declaration from the OOO Driver, Noelle widened his eyes then he quickly conjured the alchemy barrier full powered in front of him. Just in time, because at that moment, the sky darkened. What followed is heavy raining and a torrent of water splashed out from where OOO stood, it instantly put out the fire surrounding the forest and the excess amount of water crashed into the barrier. Except this time instead of holding the damage back, the barrier instantly shattered knocking Noelle back.

"This power! So this is the Full Combo?" Noelle thought, his stoic expression finally gave way to shock.

That said, on OOO's side he isn't exactly in a leisure position either. For once he really didn't expect the need to use a Combo already. But he also didn't expect their fight to have such dire consequences to the forest, not to mention the attack unleashed by the homunculus really was very powerful. The most sure way to counter it and make sure the fire doesn't spread at the same time is using the current Combo, at the very least among all the Combo this one is the least taxing, only a bit more than the Burakawani Combo.

"Not bad, this is what I have wanted to see. Well then, how about this?" Noelle asked, regaining his composure.

He then throw multiple red crystal onto the ground, which spawned multiple red alchemy circle. Then appearing from it are...

"Noises?" OOO asked in surprise. "There are other way to summon them without using that Relic?"

The Noises then start to surround the Rider, in response he throw the Unagi's Whips in a full circle striking all of them. The electricity from the whips crackled to life, shocking the Noises and disintegrated them. The homunculus widened his eyes seeing this, his expression then went back to normal.

"This should be enough for the report." Noelle thought.

End Song.

"That was an interesting battle, thank you so much for playing with me." Noelle said with a small smile toward OOO. "But that is all for today, let see if our path will cross again in the future."

With that, the homunculus summoned an alchemy circle where he standing. He then sink through the portal, his destination unknown to OOO. But at the very least, the Rider know this mean the abrupt battle is over. Tilting the OOO Driver back, he let his armor fade away. Hino Eiji let out a small shaky sigh, even if it less taxing doesn't mean the stress isn't there. The young man let out a groan as he stretched himself, all the while pondering the implication of what just happening.

An unknown being who wield power that is definitely not Symphogear, he seems to has a way to utilize the Noises differently from how Chris and Fine did. All in all, this is definitely a new headache if not handle carefully. But for now...

"For now I should make sure Boss Lady get her stuff...oh no where did I left the grocery bag?" Eiji asked himself in dread.


On the other hand, at the other side of the city the girls are currently in hiding in one of the clothes stall inside the mall.

"Again why are we hiding? Are we under attack? Just let me handle them." Chris grumbled.

The silvernette obviously not liking the fact she has to avoid the potential attackers.

"No, no. They are just Tsubasa-san's fan who happened to recognize her!" Hibiki quickly explained.

Going back the clock for a bit, beside the rocky start, the date have actually went pretty well for the girls. Obviously there is still moment when Tsubasa and Chris trade bark at each other, but that to be expected, if anything that is quite light given their previous encounters. Other than that, Hibiki and Miku have bring the duo to various place.

There was the cloth store at first.

Kazanarai tried out various outfit with an excited look.

"How is this?" Tsubasa said, striking a well practiced pose.

"Oh!" Both Miku and Hibiki shared an exclamation and clapped.

Safe to said being able to see their idol trying out various outfit like this make both of them feel like they just win some special guests privilege or something, though not all of those here share the same thought.

"I don't really need another clothes you know? Mine is working just fine."

Chris said, crossing her arms, with a bored tone when she was asked by other to try some outfit herself.

"You, don't tell me you have only been using that only outfit for all this time?" Tsubasa asked with a narrowed gaze, her voice full of disgust.

"Why you? Not all of us like to flaunt our riches around on trivial stuff alright? And for your information my clothes are clean!" Chris snapped back.

"Uwah, no fighting please!" Hibiki pleaded, holding a stop sign that she grabbed out of...somewhere.

"She the one who trying to piss me off here." Chris said grumpily. She then feel someone tapped her shoulder, the girl expression become a bit more neutral when she see it is Miku. "Huh? What do you want?" She asked neutrally.

"You know...perhaps showing you can wear those clothes better than Tsubasa-san would be a good comeback as well?"

Miku whispered into the silvernette's ear, making sure the other can't hear her words.

Inwardly, she think of a quick apology to Tsubasa, but at this point she has been infected by her friend and also want to see this date work with them get along, no matter how small it might be.

"That..." Chris said with a doubtful expression, this make Miku thought her attempt have been too naïve, that is until a vicious grin make it way to the silvernette's lips. "Might not be a bad idea, alright that blue head asked for it."

With that Chris also started to change to some of the outfit as well, with some serious vigor put into it. Once again both Miku and Hibiki clapped in excitement, this time is because seeing how nice the clothes fit the silvernette. On the side, Tsubasa let out a small huff but she too can't deny the silvernette fit all the clothes very well. The girl could give some professional model a run for their money, not that the bluenette would admit it out loud anytime soon.

Then they have went to a nearby fast food store, once again the contrast between the Ichaival and Ame no Habakiri Users can be seen clearly. While Tsubasa is taking time to savor the experience of eating junk food with friend, on the other side, Chris already devouring her with vigor. Miku who already have a meal with Chris before so she is somewhat expected this, while Hibiki watched in amazement.

At the karaoke, Tsubasa once again proven why she is a famous idol with her singing skills. Though the songs she pick is a song of a tragic love from the last decade, safe to said this clash with the usual bright idol song that both Hibiki and Miku used to listen to from the bluentte. While Chris wondered what would make her choose such a depressing old song in the silvernette's own words, though Chris herself didn't sing any songs and the other didn't really force her to.

There was also some movie viewing, though this time Chris didn't get to choose instead she was dragged to a romance movie. While Hibiki and Tsubasa was crying the entire time, Miku enjoyed the movie neutrally. As for Chris, she dozed off almost immediately.

Then they moved on to the arcade, safe to said for this one Chris is more in her element while Tsubasa looked around in confusion and wonder. It was quite a shock for the rest of them, including Chris, that this is the bluenette first time in an arcade. Of course she know what it is, the girl just never found herself a chance to go into one. Despite Kazanari Genjuro suggested her to go into such a place to let loose like other kid her age, the bluenette was too busy with her Gear practice, singing and various other training to go out of her way to go into such a place.

"Kanade wanted to drag me into this place when we get a free time from the Zwei Wing and the Noises but..." Tsubasa said, trailing off.

Safe to said this make both Hibiki and Miku have a pitiful expression, even Chris flinched as she scratched the back of her head in an irritated manner.

"Alright then let's me show you how this done, here's the money, come!" Chris exclaimed.

She then dump a few coins into a surprised Tsubasa's hand, then proceed to went ahead to one of the machine. The bluenette look at the coins in her hand with an unreadable expression as she followed the silvernette, behind her both Hibiki and Miku have an amused expression.

Obviously being her first time here, there was a lots of game she didn't known. Some she do recognize, since Kanade do have a game console and she showed Tsubasa a few games whenever there is a chance. But as expected she is no match to the rest of the group when it come to competitive game, such as fighting, driving and of course shooting game. There is the drum music game though and that one Tsubasa is very good at it, given it lay out is similar to how the real music instrument is. Kazanari has a rare excited smile on her face as she keep playing, a sight that make Hibiki and Miku cheered her on while Chris has a small smile as she watch on the side.

Though this is also when some of the people standing by to watch happened to recognize the girl who is playing the drum game is in fact the famous idol, Kazanari Tsubasa.

Thus, we found ourselves back in present times, with the group hiding away from the crowd of fans. Hibiki led them to a nearby park after making sure nobody saw them, the group then sat on one of the bench.

"Hah, that was close." Miku sighed in relief.

"Sorry, it was my fault our fun got interrupted." Tsubasa said in embarrassment.

"Don't said that please." Miku said, shaking her head. "If anything this just show me how hard you have it."

"Geez if it bothered you that much you could have just tell them to screw off you know?" Chris said in a matter-of-fact manner, sitting cross legged on a separate bench.

"As if I could do that to people who supported me and my songs." Tsubasa shot back with a frown, crossing her arms. "I was hoping at the very least you can understand the feeling of appreciation one have for music."

"So troublesome, what would you know about me huh? Don't start assuming just because you read a few lines that lazily summarized my life." Chris said heatedly.

Just when Miku thought she need to intervene before these two come to blows, her friend spoke up.

"Ah here it is, look everyone, how nice the sunset is!" Hibiki cheered, pointing at the scenery.

This draw the other three attention so they looked to where the cream haired girl is and sure enough, the park position give them a good view of the sun going down, signify the afternoon of the days about to reach evening. It is a calming and beautiful scene that managed to temporarily make both Chris and Tsubasa forgot their argument, instead the two just take in the scene with a startled expression.

"You see, all this fighting have always scared me. But watching this, in a way I want to believe I have helped protect this scenery." Hibiki said, letting out an exhale with a somber smile. "Tsubasa-san, this is what you have been protecting all this time, thank you so much." She said toward the stunned bluentte then shift her attention to the silvernette. "Chris-chan, how about it? Won't you said this is worth protecting? Let's work together okay?" She asked.

Both of the more experienced Gear Users didn't response right away and it seems Hibiki isn't in a rush either, consider she just walk next to Miku as they both continue enjoy the scenery. This leave the two of them more times to brew on the cream haired girl's words.

"What I protected eh?" Tsubasa thought with a small smile.

"What I can protect huh?" Chris thought with a somber expression.

All the while, the warm ray of the setting sun continue to bask on the city.


Author's Note: Hi guys, thanks for reading this chapter. Truth to be told wanted to release this chapter during 2023 but as you can see, it is not as I planned. Still, hope you guys enjoyed this.

Anyway this chapters decided to introduce Carol a bit early, also decided to add some backstory for her and Fine. I mean something always seems cool to me about Symphogear is all these antagonists, who easily achieved immortality in their own way haha, seems to know each other in a way. Not buddy buddy of course, but they know each other exist, sometimes they even stand against each other due to conflict of goal. But it never really show Fine and Carol have reason to be antagonistic to each other, I mean spoiler alert if you haven't watch it yet, but it show Fine do have an antagonistic relationship to another antagonistic organization but never to Carol so I decided to take some liberty here! And that bring me to Noelle, a character that should be familiar to those who played or watch the gameplay of the Symphogear XD. Seriously Dracula or Vlad is somehow also in that game, it sure has the crazy fun vibe from it anime originator, that said I never really know how Noelle fight so I also decided to take some liberty with that as well. Would he stay around for more? Well perhaps, that is if I can even get that far ahead into Symphogear seasons.

Alright that's all I got to said for now, once again thank you for everyone who decided to spent their times reading the chapter, hope you all have a Happy New Year and take care \(^_^)/.