Thank you for all those who is reading my story, here is another chapter, before that to address a review!
Kup: Nothing rude as all I know my English writing skills still leave much to be desired and probably wont improve leap and bound anytime soon. Really appreciate the review.
Little Voracious: Thank you for the kind words as always.
Tenzalucard123: Appreciate the enthusiasm, while such an idea would be interesting I haven't plan for such a form yet and even if I did using it now feel too soon hahaha.
Alright with that let the chapter begin!
Chapter 16: Approaching Threat? Idol. And Unknown Hatred!
Disclaimer: I own nothing except some OC here and there, which is rarely. Otherwise just searching a character name on Google and you should easily see where they are from and who own said franchise.
"Hm, hm, hm."
Currently, Tachibana Hibiki can be seen humming a cheery tune as she walk down the hall of the 2ndDivision, staring at her phone with a cheerful smile.
"You really in a good mood aren't you?" Walking next to the cream haired girl, Kazanari Tsubasa asked with a curious expression. "Was it really that big of a deal?" She asked.
After all, the bluenette known the reason why Tachibana is so happy, she just can't see the reason for it.
It been a day since the girls hangout yesterday, school have resumed. With her legs injury now healed and just have some stitches left, Tsubasa has returned to school. As expected, many were concerned when they learnt she was in an 'accident' and have asked her questions of concern. But other than that it have been a normal school day, with the classes now over the two of them are making their way to the command room.
"Of course I am!" Hibiki exclaimed, showing the device in her hand toward a startled Kazanari. "Chris-chan herself agreed to give me her phone number! You know what this mean? It mean Chris-chan is finally warming up to us!"
"I suppose." Tsubasa said with a hesitant nod. "It...really is admirable the way you can ignore all the past danger she put you through." She said with respect.
"Like I said, it's all in the past, we all have our own circumstance." Hibiki said with an unreadable expression for a split second, then it was replaced by her usual smile. "What matter is now all of us Symphogear Users will use our songs together to protect people from the Noises, not to mention we are all friends now."
Tsubasa didn't said anything else beside giving a silent nod. She was being genuine with her words, for someone who faced danger that could have end her life any moment, Hibiki's capability to look past that so quickly and befriend said individual with such a happy smile is amazing. But in its own way, it also quite abnormal, if not somewhat worrysome.
"Then again, that might just be my grim mindset talking, not everyone have to be like me. That just show how strong a character Tachibana is." Tsubasa thought to herself, decided to put these thoughts behind her for now.
Walking through the glasses door, the pair of girls arrived at the commanding center of the Division.
"Hello everyone." Hibiki greeted.
"Kazanari Tsubasa, reporting for duty. My apologies for all the inconvenience I have caused." Tsubasa said giving a deep bow.
After all, this is the first chance she finally get to talk to everyone of the 2ndDivision beside her uncle and her assistant, Ogawa Shinji. Hence, the girl is resolved to at least able to express her regret for all the trouble she caused when she was being influenced by the Yummy.
"Raise your head Tsubasa-chan, being so formal will give you wrinkle before you hit 30, how many times do I have to tell you that?" Sakurai Ryoko jested, crossing her arms with an amused smile.
"Though if you want to make me some coffee as a repayment then I won't said no." Fujitaka Sakuya said jokingly, currently sitting in his desk. "After all, it not everyday I can said an idol make me coff- OW!" He yelped.
The reasons is because the person next to him just punched him on the shoulder with an unamused expression.
"What this idiot trying to said is don't take it too seriously Tsubasa-chan." Tomosato Aoi said with a serene smile, if one to ignore her smoking knuckle that is. "We know the fault didn't lie within you."
"I told you, Tsubasa-kun, no one here will blame you for what happened. We all understand the pain and burden you have to carry." Ogawa Shinji said sympathically.
The bluenette look at everyone's reaction, she can tell they are genuine with their words. They were willing to forgive her foolish behavior, however, that...
"If you seek something more severe from this then it not because you want our forgiveness." Kazanari Genjuro said knowingly, crossing his arms. "Rather you are hoping to receive angry words as a way to punish yourself for the mess you feel responsible for." He said with a small chuckle. "You idiot niece, you are always like this. Rather than focus on that, use this chance to move forward with the lessons you learnt from this, isn't that better?" Genjuro said, going back to read a document on his hand.
Hearing this, the younger Kazanari become silence with her thought. She then has a softened look in her eyes with an awkward smile.
"I really still have a lots to learn eh?" Tsubasa asked self-mockingly, yet her tone also carry a hint of relief in it.
"We all do Tsubasa-san, that's what it mean to be young after all." Hibiki said with a grin.
"Ohoho, what is that suppose to mean Hibiki-chan?" Ryoko asked, suddenly appear behind the cream haired girl, making her yelp in surprise. "You implying this know-it-all-me is old then?" She asked.
The scientist then start to grip the cream haired girl tightly in a comical manner.
"Ahahaha, no, no I'm not, spare me please!" Hibiki cried out jokingly.
At that moment, Hino Eiji walked in along with Ankh. The former carry a quizzical expression as if he is thinking of a hard question.
"Hello? Earth to Eiji-kun?" Hibiki asked.
The girl poked the side of the man, earning a surprised yelp from him.
"Sorry, sorry I was just in thought. Good afternoon everyone." Eiji said with an embarrassed look, giving a light nod.
Next to him, Ankh just scoffed.
"He been like that this whole morning but maybe you guys can help with this." Ankh said, crossing his arms.
The bird Greeed then send a sideway glance at Sakurai much to the scientist's curiosity.
"Me?" Ryoko asked then huffed her chest. "Hm~Hm~! It seems Eiji-kun has realized my great genius, go on, let me share my wealth of knowledge with you!"
"Ah, supposedly is there a way to summon the Noises without using the Solomon's Cane?" Eiji asked.
"..."
"..."
"..."
A moment of silence with the one who most rigid is Sakurai Ryoko herself.
"I think we gonna need coffee." Genjuro said with a sigh.
As if on cue...
"WHAT!?" Ryoko exclaimed.
Opening: Synchrogazer by Mizuki Nana.
Cover Image: Kamen Rider OOO Tatoba Combo stand next to Kazanari Tsubasa, who has a serious expression, clad in Ame no Habakiri. The two have their swords out and crossing them over each other.
After the supposedly casual questions by Eiji, Ryoko went back to the computer screen. The woman have an excited look on her face after she demanded the man to tell her the reason to ask her such a question, of course, the former proceed to tell her along with everyone else the encounter he has with the strange boy name Noel.
"Uwah, Hino, has anyone ever tell you that you have one heck of a luck?" Sakuya asked with a wince.
"Hah, at this point, this got to be a record right? Not that I think you have anyone competing against you." Aoi said in agreement.
Granted, they all not exactly one to talk, however the 2ndDivision actively seek out Noises to stop them. And while the danger of those who want to steal Symphogear's technology is true, the 2ndDivision power both politically and literally along with the Gear Users themselves have deterred those attempts from being too frequent. And yet Hino here after his deadly clash, not even a week has been pass and he has been targeted by another unknown force?
"Hold on here, if anything, Hibiki-chan could be their target." Eiji argued back.
Both because he didn't want to believe his luck is that bad, also because he is more worried if his friend really is the intended target. However, those who able to keep a more clear head was able to see the flaw in this.
"If that's true, then this Noel character did the foolish thing of revealing his hand." Genjuro said, shaking his head. "His words are true, with his appearance as described by you, I can see him approach Hibiki-kun before she can react. Why bother go through such elaborate ploy to get your attention first?"
"Most likely, this Noel for some reason want to gauge Eiji-kun's abilities and used Hibiki-chan as a trigger to make him fight seriously." Ogawa Shinji said in agreement.
On the side, leaning against the wall, Ankh snorted. He completely agree, it just he knew Eiji always become rushed when he thought other beside himself is in danger so he didn't want to waste his breath.
As for a certain cream haired girl, she shot a concerned look at her friend hearing what happened to him yesterday.
"Sorry Eiji-kun, I didn't know." Hibiki said with a guilty expression. "While you were in danger I was..."
The girl can't accept the notion that she was having fun while Eiji was caught in an ambush, next to her the younger Kazanari's frown show she most likely has the same thought.
"Hibiki-chan, Tsubasa-chan don't worry about it." Eiji waved it off with a smile. "I didn't want your hard earned date to be ruined, especially when you managed to get Chris-chan to join. My only concern was you guys were in danger but hearing you call and tell me about your fun times put me at ease, especially now that we know for sure it isn't you guys Noel is aiming for." He said with a relieved tone.
Now that Hino understand his friend wasn't the intended target and just himself, he feel much better. The man wasn't kidding, Hino really was debating between ruining the girls dates or wait for a day yesterday until he got the aforementioned phone call. And even then he still send out multiple Candroid to survey the are just to be sure, he want the girls get their rest, doesn't mean he want to leave their safety to chance. Too bad, while Eiji doesn't find anything wrong with his words, Tachibana didn't feel the same.
"Of course is not okay!" Hibiki exclaimed angrily, surprising Hino. "You are targeted for some reason Eiji-kun, why are you always make it sound so lightly when it only concern you?" She asked in frustration.
"Tachibana is right, Hino-san." Tsubasa chime in, her face set in a concerned frown. "Weren't you trying to tell me about how many people care for me? I hope those words aren't just for me." She said with a somber smile. "For example, I have considered you a comrade already and I don't want to watch those I known hurt anymore."
Both of those girls words caused Eiji to have a nervous expression, partially because he didn't expect a passing comment would draw such big reactions from them. No, rather, the fact he didn't think of that mean he still need to be more aware isn't? Just looking around, Hino can see Genjuro and the other also have a same stoic expression, showing they agree with the words from the two young girls.
"Rest assured everyone, I am being careful. I didn't mean to be dismissive about my safety." Eiji said tentatively, he then look toward the silent Greeed. "I also have Ankh with me as well! No one is more jumpy then him, nothing get pass him." He said reassuringly.
"Oi, why are you dragging me to your mess?" Ankh asked with an annoyed tone.
"Ankh-san is right Eiji-kun! No excuse this time, can't you see we all worried how little you care for your own safety?" Hibiki continue her criticize with a heavy pout.
"Oi, since when did I said that?" Ankh asked, this time both his expression and tone is completely dry.
"No, I heard you guys, I will be careful. Promise." Eiji said, clapping his hand together apologetically.
"Ah, yes, yes. Watching out for your crush is cute and all but that can be for later!"
Ryoko suddenly snapped, ignoring the sputtering words Hibiki is spewing out.
The scientist has an excited crazed look on her face, this draw one single thought from the rest of the 2ndDivision.
"Oh no, her flip is switched again."
In other words, the usual know-it-all scientist has saw something she wasn't aware of and this has peak her interest in an extreme way. Already, she practically teleported to Eiji's side much to his shock.
"Now tell me, what exactly was the manner he summoned the Noises? Were there any different? Did you encounter a new variant? Did they perhaps behave differently from the Noises you see until now?" Ryoko fired off rapidly as she shook Eiji back and forth. "Detail, boy! I need DETAIL!"
"Ah...ah...all...I..see...is some kind of crystal?" Eiji shakily replied, it hard to form a sentence with all the shaking. The scientist probably realized that too since she thankfully stopped, but the man known if he doesn't hurry up the shaking will proceed. "He throw them to the ground and some magic circle appeared then the Noises come out from it." He recalled. "So I guess you guys haven't heard about this before?"
"Are you kidding me, it not like we can reserve a sit to watch when the Noises spawn." Ryoko said with a sigh of regret, the other occupants in the room have no doubt she truly mean it. This scientist will really jump at such a chance. "All we can do is react when they already attack the city, it isn't until recently that we learnt of the Solomon's Cane. And even then it just a glimpse, I haven't got my hand on it yet." She grumbled. Again, the occupants have no doubt, dead serious. "And now you suddenly told us about this new summoning method that seems to have nothing to do with the Cane? Ah the mystery, how I would love to learn more." Ryoko said with a wishful sigh.
"Is this really something to be excited about? All this mean is that even if we manage to get the Solomon's Cane, humanity could still face the danger of the Noises." Tsubasa said disapprovingly, crossing her arms.
The girl is more than familiar with the scientist's antics, even then, her sentinel's heart can't approve such excitement over the potential of more danger for humanity.
"Well think of it this way, if we learn more about it we can prevent it from becoming a problem." Ryoko said flippantly.
It was such a quick response that many wonder if the scientist even serious about her words, it really sound more like an excuse.
"Maybe you should hold your horse woman." Ankh finally decide to speak up, sparing a glance at Eiji. "According to what he said then, perhaps these magic circle are just summoning circle. The Noises already spawned from the Solomon's Cane, then it was bring forth when they need."
"Interesting idea, would be great if that is true." Genjuro said, with his hand to his chin pondering about the idea. "Hopefully that would be the cases, then as long as we get the Solomon's Cane that would still mean we can free humanity from the Noises."
"Hm, nice theory is nothing but just that without more proof." Ryoko said, crossing her arms with a challenging smirk. "What's your evidence, bird boy?"
In return, the Greeed offered a sincere scowl.
"It called a guess, can you prove me wrong yourself then?" Ankh asked.
Invoking devil's advocate, not a bad way to defend one stance. Also a good way for Ankh to not have to admit he is wrong to the smug scientist, now that's important, for the Greeed that is.
"Well hopefully Eiji-kun's popularity won't go down yet, then I might have that chance." Ryoko said with a beaming a smile.
Despite how innocent that smile is, being the recipient of it, Hino can only feel cold sweat go down his back. And he wasn't alone as his friend already latch herself onto his right arm protectively.
"No using Eiji-kun as bait! I will really be angry at you, Ryoko-san!" Hibiki threatened.
In a way, it make one think of a teddy bear trying to be intimidating. Hino feel so touched, bless his friend's heart. Facing such a terrifyingly (cute) sight, even the scientist who was drowning in her excitement was unable to resist.
"Fine." Ryoko said with sour look.
The scientist act like a kid that was just told no to ice cream before dinner.
"Well I'll be damn, she managed to make Sakurai-san back off." Sakuya said with an impressed look.
"For now, but yes." Aoi said, sort of agree.
The commander then clapped his hand together, gaining everybody's attention.
"Alright let's focus back on the matter at hand people, regardless we have already know we live in an abnormal world." Genjuro said with a resigned tone, crossing his arms. But the man has a confident smile that didn't match his tone. "Which mean the 2ndDivision's mission still didn't change, we are here to protect humanity from anyone or anything that dare to threaten it. We will start to see if any intel can be gather about this potential new threat, as the same time the main focus is still to locate and deal with this Fine's character and put a stop to the threat she and the Solomon's Cane pose." Genjuro said with finality in his tone.
The man confident and energy easily influenced his subordinate as they get back to work. Watching from the sideline, the Greeed take note of the situation with a passing interest.
"He act easygoing but I suppose if he didn't have at least this level of charisma then he wouldn't have been able to take charge of this kind of place huh?" Ankh thought. "At the very least he held back when it come to the Core Medals, but if such a man is more ambitious then Eiji would have been in deep trouble."
Would such a person exist though? Possibly, this world is large and unknown, regardless though something never change. Ankh have a feeling that Eiji had become way too 'popular' in this world already, not that too different back in his home world where his power as OOO mean he will get drag into many dangers even if they don't involve the Greeed or the Yummy. And the attack from this Noel is just another proof of that.
"I wonder, if I am not around to nag at him, would this idiot be able to watch his back?" Ankh thought in a rare moment of somber, his finger twitching.
With the debriefing over, the staff of 2ndDivision get back to work. Thankfully no Noises have been sighted today so it is standby time for the Gear Users and the Rider, so said trio along with Ankh found themselves with some free time. The four of them currently sitting at the break area, with Ankh lazily checking news on his phone, tuning out the ongoing conversation.
"Any major pain from your leg today, Tsubasa-chan?" Eiji asked in concern.
"No, the stitches are still a bit itchy but other than that it is recovering smoothly for me." Tsubasa said with a shook of her hand, her expression forlorn. "In fact, I think it is possible for me to get back to my Zwei Wing's activities now but Ogawa-san denied it."
Hearing this, both Tachibana and Hino nodded in agreement.
"I can see why, Tsubasa-san, you shouldn't be so rush. The fan can wait, your health come first." Hibiki said in concern.
Ankh snorted at the cream haired girl words, this make Eiji give him a sting look before he lightly slapped the Greeed on the shoulder, much to the latter annoyance. It not the Greeed's fault the little brat can't act what she preach.
"Thank you, Hibiki-chan but it not just for the fan, I too want to sing for myself. I told you didn't I? Zwei Wing is something made by both me and Kanade together, I want to keep it going strong to show it to Kanade when she awake." Tsubasa said with a confident smile.
"Even more reason, if Kanade-san know for you guys dream you hurt yourself like this, it wouldn't make the dream fun anymore you know?" Hibiki pressed on.
The girl's determined expression startled Kazanari, the latter clearly didn't expect this strong rebuttal. The bluenette let out a defeated chuckle.
"You got me there. Ogawa-san is right after all." Tsubasa conceded with a small sigh. "Still, my wounds really are better now so I am not really pushing myself. I just can't wait to be back on the stage again."
"It really great to see you enjoying your singing Tsubasa-chan." Eiji said, crossing his arms. "Maybe one of these days me and Ankh will finally check out your concert to see how it look like?" He asked jokingly.
"Oi, again, why are you dragging me to your mess?" Ankh asked with an annoyed frown.
"Hino-san...you haven't heard me sing before?" Tsubasa asked, her voice carry a complicated tone.
As if the bluenette herself wasn't sure how to feel, it was a passing comment but it seems to effect her more than she thought.
"Hm? Ah...well I wasn't really into concert or idol you see." Eiji said sheepishly. "Ah, not that I think it bad or anything it just never come across my interest. Plus you guys already know I usually wander here and there right? That kind of make it hard for me to attend any concert regularly in Japan." He said with a shrug.
Both of the girls did adopt a sheepish expression as they realize they have overlooked that glaring problem, but Hibiki quickly regained her interest as an idea pop up in her head.
"Ah! Then it perfect! Tsubasa-san can be your first and exclusive favorite idol, isn't that right?"
Hibiki asked, looking at the bluenette excitingly.
"E...eh?" Tsubasa muttered, look like a deer get caught in the light. "Well that would not be bad for sure. Yes, that would be fine indeed." She said, nodding to herself as if each words give her more courage. The girl then look at Eiji with a determined expression. "Please rest assured, I have faith in my song, if you give me a chance I will be sure to show you the best I have to offer!" Tsubasa declared.
It not just overconfident, rather to Kazanari Tsubasa, her entire being consist of battle and song. It is natural she would want to prove herself to the veteran protector, as if to demonstrate her determination and way of life.
As for Hibiki? She just a fan that want to drag another person down the rabbit hole with her.
"Ah, that sound interesting." Eiji said, leaning back in his seat with a sweat drop, a bit intimidated by the intense aura both girls releasing. "It would have to be a day when I have a day off from the Sunflower store of course."
He already feeling bad taking so many days off and left the kind lady to herself. Having to fight against the Noises, Yummy and battle frenzy Rider are one things but he can't in good conscious just skip work when it isn't an emergency.
"That should be no problem, the concert usually happen precisely on day that people would have times off from work. Plus I'm sure I can have a said in the scheduling as well." Tsubasa said with a reassuring smile.
"Eh? That sound a bit extreme isn't?" Eiji asked with a sweat-drop.
Hino pretty sure he is having a privilege that most fan would kill for, having an idol influence a possible concert schedule around them, and he isn't sure what to do with this.
"Don't worry about it, it is like Tsubasa-chan said, having a concert scheduled during weekend is much better anyway." Shinji interjected, the man walked toward the table with an amused smile, having overheard the conversation. "Beside, to have the usual reserve girl here doing this much for someone other than Kanade-chan is refreshing for sure." He said with a good nature smile, yet one can tell a teasing tone from it.
"Ogawa-san, please stop already." Tsubasa said with an embarrassed expression, especially when she saw Hibiki's playful smile. "So how go the schedule? We are doing a photoshoot for the CD cover this weekend right?" She asked, changing the subject.
"Hah, yes, since you insisted we can resume the plan now I have make the time to be this Saturday." Shinji said with a resigned tone. "I know you said you are fine now, and it good to keep up your public image by showing the fan you are okay but it still best to do the more lighter activities for now."
"I suppose so." Tsubasa said, willing to relent on this part.
Meanwhile both the cream haired girl and the brown haired man shared a glance.
"Doing an entire photoshoot is already considered a lighter event eh?" Hibiki asked in wonder.
"Idol sure have it tough." Eiji said, nodding in agreement.
"Oh right, would you guys like to join Tsubasa's photo session this weekend?"
Shinji asked to both of them.
"E..eh? Are you sure that's okay?" Hibiki asked happily.
"If my manager have given an okay then I have nothing to worry about." Tsubasa asked with a light smile in agreement. "If anything, I was worried you guys would think it boring..."
"That's not true at all we would be happy to, right Eiji-kun?" Hibiki asked full of vigor.
"If it not too much trouble to you guys, that's a day off for me too anyway." Eiji said.
"Awesome!" Hibiki cheered, almost jumping out of her chair before she paused. "Ah...I guess it would be pushing it to ask for many people to come along eh?" She asked timidly.
"Indeed, it would be too crowdy for this time. This is a first photoshoot since Tsubasa get discharged from the hospital, so the studio want to keep it in control." Shinji said apologetically. "I understand you want to invite your friends for this, Hibiki-chan. However in return I can promise you that you guys would have the best seats whenever Tsubasa perform, without a cost of course." He said.
This make the cream haired girl flustered, feeling like she has been to pushy.
"No, no I was just asking, it okay!" Hibiki exclaimed frantically, waving her hands in front of her.
"Don't worry Tachibana, we are friends right?" Tsubasa said, a bit hesitantly, the girl definitely not used to such a words. But it make her like it that she get to use it like this. "I would be happy to know my friends enjoy my songs." She said.
The bluenette's gaze lingered on Hino for a split second.
"Hahaha...she really fixated on that eh? Guess I do need to make some times in the future." Eiji thought, amused.
"Now pardon me, I would like to visit Kanade, it has been a while." Tsubasa said, standing up to leave.
"See you later, Tsubasa-san." Hibiki said with a wave.
She and Eiji didn't want to intrude this time, it will be the bluenette first visit since she get discharged from a grievous wounds after all. Not to mention, Kazanari's departure unknowingly create a perfect opportunity for the next topic.
"Now then, since the one in question already left. Are you gonna be frank about what you planning?" Ankh spoke up.
The Greeed have been silent, as in not even messing with his phone and just listen to the conversation quietly with one eye open. One would think he has doze off in boredom, but the Greeed actually just get interested when he realize something. Thus he directed that question at Ogawa much to Eiji and Hibiki's surprise.
"I guess I am not that subtle eh?" Shinji asked with an apologetic expression.
"Nah you hide it pretty well, not enough for me that's all." Ankh said with a snort.
"Eh what do you guys mean?" Hibiki asked, looking lost.
Eiji keep silence and wait for the man to continue.
"Actually, there might have been an ulterior motive for me asking if only you two want to come." Shinji confessed, taking a seat in the chair left empty by Tsubasa. "You see, I am a bit worried that her upcoming photoshoot might have some danger involved." He said with a complicated expression.
The cream haired gasped in surprise.
"What do you mean? Is it Fine?" Hibiki asked urgently.
"Well that's the thing, we are not too sure yet. She could be related or it can be something completely different." Shinji said with a sigh, seeing the confused expression he decided to take out a letter in his pocket. "We received this letter among the mails sent to Tsubasa."
As the man spread the letter out, both Hibiki and Eiji read with a sense of unease. The letters have many characters, they have been cut out from various newspaper and magazine that said.
(I KnOw yOur SEcret, yOu FRAUD! Do NoT ReTurn tO thE sTages oR YoU WonT EvEn MAke iT TO ThE HoSpital NexT Time.)
"This is horrible." Hibiki said in disgust.
"Unfortunately with her line of words threatening letter isn't exactly a rare thing." Shinji said with a sigh. "Of course, with us 2nd Division not to mention her capability as a Gear User, normal threat mean little. However this one..." He trailed off.
"'I know your secret' right?" Eiji guessed in concern.
"Interesting choices of words given the idol's circumstance huh?" Ankh said calmly with a narrowed gaze.
"It couldn't be, they know about Tsubasa-san's role as a Gear User?" Hibiki asked, then she become more upset. "But if that's the cases then how can they send such a letter knowing Tsubasa-san is risking her life for other?!"
Hino patted the enraged Tachibana on the shoulder comfortingly, he too share the same sentiment but didn't voice it out. Ogawa nodded in agreement with a somber expression while Ankh still keep quiet, just glancing over the letter again.
"Honestly we can't be too sure if what they talking about is Tsubasa's hidden identity or it something else completely." Shinji said, crossing his arms. "For all we know, it could just be a rambling of a deluded individual, that would be the best cases scenario. But given all that happening recently, with the latest being the attack on Eiji-kun, both me and the Commander agree it better to be safe than sorry."
"Then why not simply call off the whole photoshoot in the first place?" Hibiki asked in great concern.
The gravity of the situation is clear to her now, this is no longer a rare opportunity but rather a dangerous route. But Ogawa can only chuckle helplessly.
"Hibiki-chan, is not that you don't know Tsubasa's personalities by this point right?" Shinji asked.
"Ah." Hibiki make a sound of realization. "True...I guess I can see Tsubasa-san will push on knowing about this to see who would target her..." She said sheepishly. "So Tsubasa-san still hasn't know about this yet then?"
"Yes, she is still wounded, I would prefer if she isn't too worked up." Shinji said with a nod. "But she of course will know something is up if I keep trying to prevent her from doing her works hence..."
"Hence the whole roundabout way of inviting the brat and Eiji to come together as bodyguards without the blue hair's knowledge eh?" Ankh guessed, leaning back on his chair leisurely.
"Yeah, even if Ankh-kun didn't said anything, I would have properly explained the situation to you guys." Shinji said, looking at both Hibiki and Eiji with an apologetic expression. "Now that you two know the danger, can I still ask the both of you to lend me your aid?" He asked earnestly, giving a small bow.
The two in questions shared a glance then let out a same knowing smile, the answer couldn't be more obvious.
Meanwhile, Ankh let out a sardonic chuckle, what a waste of a questions.
Located deep in a forest, a two floor cabin stood by itself. Despite its humble appearance, if one take a look inside they will see its lay out would put a five star hotel to shame. With beautiful furniture and various technology equipment set up in it, just the way its owner prefer. Fine, with a glass of wine in her hand, take a small sip as she walk toward the giant monitor, not unlike the one back in her old mansion. Shame it was destroyed, she quite like the view, but that just one of the many she has ready for whenever she need. Taking a sit at the armchair with her feet kicked up on the table, the woman make a call on an 'old friend' she unexpectedly reconnect recently.
The call is answered, on the other side of the screen, Carol Malus Dienhem watch with an irritated expression.
"Would it kill you to put on some clothes instead of giving me this unwanted view?" Carol asked, narrowing her eyes.
"Aw come on Carol-chan, don't be jealous just because you can't be like this, well not all the time anyway." Fine said provokingly, hugging her arms to her chest with deliberation.
"Fine, I know we both have all the times we want, that doesn't mean I want to waste mine on you if this is all you have to said." Carol said with a twitch of an eyebrow, her hand look like she ready to end the call.
"Wait, wait, come now child, learn to appreciate a joke would you?" Fine said in a calming manner with an amused smile. "Hah~ such impatience for someone with your experience. Alright then, main topics it is, how was our guest's performance? As impressive as I told you right?" She asked, taking another sip.
"It is certainly an impressive display of alchemy prowess I will grant it that." Carol said, straighten up her posture in contrast to her fellow immortal. "The data of the alchemy formula used to forge such an armor would indeed be quite useful for my research. However," She said as her gaze sharpened. "That doesn't mean I will let myself dance to your tune with such a basic bait, Fine. If I probe at them more right now I will gain unwanted attention and will relief you from some heat is it not?" Carol asked knowingly.
The blond haired woman shrug in what can only be describe as an 'oops' manner.
"Look like nothing get past you, as expected for one of the greatest Alchemist in the world." Fine said, leaning her face on one of her arm. "But are you sure you will just let such an interesting toys running around then?" She asked.
"Hmph, you misunderstood me, Fine." Carol asked, here her lips has a sharp smile. "I have no intention to follow your script, however, you should also know how we both have a way to get what we want." She said.
"In other words, she already has something prepared just in case." Fine interpreted in her mind.
Honestly the woman never deluded herself to thinking things could have gone so smoothly that a fight between the Alchemic Cult and the 2nd Division would happen right now anyway, wouldn't that be a perfect little world she live in? Then this lonely immortal woman could continue with her grand plan without any interruption. If anything this small smokescreen was enough, it was all Fine could ask for to give her a bit more time, not to mention her plan have been proceeding steadily. Both the main and the side one that is, even now one of said mentioned side project is already coming along nicely and should be complete soon.
"Of course not." Fine said with a dismissing wave, her expression betray nothing. "Be as it may our past history have make you, and let us be honest here, an acquaintance at best. And for our life, a constant is a rare thing especially when it is in a form of another living being." How many lives that Fine known has start then ended in what seems to be a blink of an eyes to her? Sometimes in a rare occasion she would actually found a friendship she would treasure but then it would last at most for few centuries in her memories before it get buried by the passage of time. She sure it must apply to a certain level to the fellow blonde on the other side of the screen. "Hence I hold no delusion of leading you around the noses like some boorish mortal, if anything I appreciate the help you provided, intentionally or not." Fine said with no deceit in her words.
"Hm." Carol hummed, an indescribable emotion passed through her expression, one that seems to reserve only at someone she feel is similar to her in some way. "You gonna play your hand soon eh?" She asked knowingly. "Perhaps it mean this is the last time we can hold such conversations leisurely then."
To those who unaware, is not like these two decided to one day sit down and trade their grand scheme mechanism to one another. Rather with their wells of knowledge, experiences they have accumulated, the two of them have start to understand bits by bits of each other goal and plans, likely not the complete structure but surely a general design that they both know what each other aiming for at this point. In a certain way, if things have been a bit different they might have even gone head to head against each other but as of now their plans while parallel haven't collide yet hence that isn't needed. However would that remain true forever? Perhaps not, it all depend on how their plans would proceed and as thing stand Fine would reach her end stage before Carol.
"Oh, is that a hint of nostalgia I hear? Carol Malus Dienheim, are you gonna miss me?" Fine asked with a grin.
"Hmph..." Carol didn't react too strong, instead she let out a whimsical hum. "Like you said, some constant isn't bad in these long years. But miss is too strong a word."
As far as friendly banter go, perhaps this is the best these two could get.
"Well, Carol-chan in that case let me express my good will by wishing you luck at least." Fine said in good sportsmanship spirit, as if wishing a fellow runner up luck. "Here hope your crazy plan will also be as successful as mine is."
"Heh, don't you mean would, or perhaps could?" Carol asked with that same sharp smile. "Regardless, I appreciate the sentiment Fine, I too hope you will have luck in your own perilous journey. Good luck, oh heroine."
With that the screen turn dark. Watching the screen with a stoic expression, Fine take another sip.
"Done with your friend chat?" Poseidon asked, stand leaning on the side of the wall with an eager expression. He has heard the conversation and even if he didn't just by knowing the woman's progress on thing he know it would be time soon. "The grand stage would be done soon, I will have my best fun, you will get closer to what you looking for." He said, looking down at his trembling hand. "When that happen, heh...even if I do lose myself in these torrents of thought it would be no problem. If anything I can throw all cautious to the wind."
"Yes, yes, you can go nuts all you want then, as promised. A stage befitting for warriors to battle to eternity, with Gods themselves as the witness." Fine said with a mysterious smile.
"Perhaps, the world I aim for would even be the answer you seek as well, Carol Malus Dienhem." Fine thought.
On the other side, once the monitor gone dark, Carol turned toward Noel who been standing by patiently.
"So, even the prototype of the Alca Noises wasn't able to effect this Full Combo eh?"
Carol asked, reviewing the footage of the fight.
"Yes that is true Mistress." Noel said respectfully.
"Hm, this simply mean we need to be more sure of our preparation for our project." Carol said calmly, sitting back and kneading her hands together.
"Respectfully if I may ask, does this mean you think Fine's plan will not success?" Noel asked.
"Heh, it simply matter not that's all. Regardless, I myself will attain my goal." Carol said, narrowing her gaze. "It can't be otherwise."
Still, the Alchemist known one thing for sure. In the upcoming days, something very interesting will happen, one that even someone like her who lived so long get to witness easily.
"I know I shouldn't, but I am still so excited." Hibiki said with a wide grin.
The girl is dressed in a yellow shirt with an orange sport jacket, along with a white skirt and yellow sneakers with long black sock. She is currently looking around the studio where it gonna held Tsubasa's photoshoot.
On the side, dressed in one of his trademark colorful shirt and loose pants in dark color, is Eiji who also looked around in interest. But also to keep an eyes out if there anything abnormal, of course not to said Tachibana has forgot what they came for. She still understand the risk, it just why not enjoy oneself as well?
It has been three days since they learnt of the threat letter from Shinji, thankfully no incidents have been happen and now the day for the photoshoot is here. Ankh has opted out to come along, it was no surprise to Hino, at the very least the Greeed have said if something do happen he can just fly by instead of wasting his time waiting.
"You guys can hang around here." A staff member said with a smile, she was already informed these two people are a friend of the idol, Kazanari Tsubasa. "The snacks and drinks are all free so help yourself out if you like and please just let me know if you need anything, I will be around the room all the time during the session." She said with a polite bow.
Both Hino and Tachibana respond with a small bow themselves as the staff member walk off.
"Uwah, these look good." Hibiki said, drooling at the colorful display with sweet. "Eiji-kun, let's try some!"
"Ah, sure." Eiji said with a chuckle.
He known the girl wouldn't forget about the danger her friend is facing but it always refreshing how she can be so excited at a time like this.
On the other side, Tsubasa has finished changing into her outfit, a blue dance dress and small boots with matching color. She went out to the shooting booth where the lead cameraman greeted her. He look half Japanese, half American.
"Kazanari-kun, it good to see you doing so well." He said politely. "Are you ready? Remember if you feel unwell, let us know right away. It would be pointless if in exchange for a photoshoot we injure our talents even more." He said cautiously.
"I am fine, Kent-san." Tsubasa said confidently.
"Wonderful! Your spirit despite your calm demeanor is always a joy to capture on my camera. Since you have said so yourself we can go all out, alright everyone let's get to work and make our star shine as brightly as ever!" The now named Kent declared energetically.
With that the photo session begin.
Hibiki and Eiji watched in awe at the professional level Tsubasa is displaying under the flash of the light, the former already thinking how nervous she would be under all this attention. Forget posing with such confidence, she would be nervous stiff!
"This look so fun but it seems so scary isn't Eiji-kun?" Hibiki whimpered.
"Yeah..." Eiji said with a nervous chuckle. "It is fun but it a whole different kind of nerve wrecking when you have all those camera focus on you. Make me wonder how I managed to complete that fashion show..." He muttered with a sweat-drop.
"Yea...wait what?" Hibiki asked, whipping her neck at a breaking speed. "E...Eiji-kun why do you said it like you have been under this situation before?" She asked.
"Huh?" Eiji muttered startled then have a look of realization. "Oh, right. It's because of my friend, Hina-chan." At this, the cream haired girl let out a twitch. "She dream to become a fashion designer and was entering a contest, so I help out by being her model. Thinking back it really is nervous." He said with a light hearted laugh.
"Hah, I see, this Hina-san make the clothes and you wear it on a stage eh? Sound nice..." Hibiki muttered quietly, a bit out of character for the girl. "I'm not against it but...muh..." She whimpered then latch onto Eiji with crocodile tears. "I also wish I can have such a special moment with Eiji-kun!"
"Eh? EH?" And of course Eiji is completely lost.
As the photo session take a quick break, Tsubasa use this chance to meet up with both Hino and Tachibana.
"How are you two doing?" Tsubasa asked, wiping the sweat off her face using a towel handed to her by one of the staff. "I hope it wasn't too boring for you two to just stand around here." She said apologetically.
"Of course not, it was amazing to see you work in person like this." Hibiki said with a quick shake of her head.
As Kazanari about to reply, she was cut off.
"Oho? If it isn't Tsubasa-chan. How you doing?" A female voice, sound sweet yet also has a hint of coldness in it asked.
Turning to the sort of the voice, the trio saw a beautiful young girl, she seems to be a bit older than Tsubasa but not by much, still within a range of a high schooler. She is wearing an idol looking dress herself, with long purple hair tied into a twin tail with a charming yet somewhat challenging smile on her lips.
"Ah! You are, Tojo Nozomi-san." Hibiki gasped in realization.
Meanwhile Kazanari narrowed her gaze.
"Tojo-san, to what do I own the pleasure?" Tsubasa asked with a neutral tone.
This just remind Hino back when he and Hibiki first met the blue haired girl.
"As stiff as always when the camera not on you eh?" Nozomi asked with a tilt of her head, still keeping her smile. "I just finish my own photo session and just want to check on my coworker, nothing wrong with that is there?"
"Thank you for your concern but I am fine." Tsubasa said politely.
"That's good, it would be bad for all your fan if you stay away for too long." Nozomi said, crossing her arms. "Though I guess that mean I should work hard to make them fall for me instead while waiting for you eh?" She said with a wink. The bluenette's eyes twitched for a second hearing this. The purple haired girl then turned her attention to both Hibiki and Eiji, the former still having a surprised expression on her face. "Oh? Bringing friends along? That's rare for you, Tsubasa-chan." Nozomi said curiously then adopt a sweet smile, this time no coldness seems to hide in it. "Hello there you two, I wonder you two must be quite close to Tsubasa-chan here for her to bring you guys along eh?"
"Ah, ah. My name is Tachibana Hibiki! Nice to meet you, Tojo-san. I also really like your music." Hibiki greeted.
Kazanari would like to believe she is more open minded and have no right to control other music taste, however she can't help but twitch for another second hearing this.
"Aw it nice to see a fan." Nozomi said, looking at Hibiki up and down much to the girl nervousness. "Especially from such a cutie like you, I feel like I could eat you up." She said with a grin.
Suddenly Hibiki shivered as she was reminded of a certain scientist from the 2nd Division. Nozomi then turned her gaze to Hino who been quiet this entire time, looking like he just watching the weather passing by.
"Ah, hello, my name is Hino Eiji. Nice to meet you." Eiji said politely.
"Hm...You don't know who I am do you?" Nozomi asked innocently.
"Eh, I'm afraid not."
Eiji said, not sure if he has offended her in that way.
Instead the purple haired girl just look amused.
"I knew it. Otherwise no fan would look so lost in front of an idol." Nozomi said.
"Eiji-kun, she is Tojo Nozomi! She is a very famous idol you know?"
Hibiki asked with a rare exasperated tone toward Eiji, she know he is ignorant of this but she didn't think it would be to the level he doesn't even found her face familiar considering she, like Tsubasa and Kanade, have her picture plastered on the street and subway as advertisement!
"My bad." Eiji said, rubbing the back of his head with a sheepish chuckle, he is clearly out of his element here.
"Well that's fine, someone who doesn't know about any idol? That would make it perfect if I am your first now isn't?" Nozomi asked with a wink.
The girl definitely know what she is saying! That both Hibiki and Tsubasa have no doubt as they now share the same twitch with their expression darkened.
Yet without missing a beat, Hino already give his response.
"Really sorry for that, but I promised to give that position to Tsubasa-chan already." Eiji said with a chuckle. All three of the girls suddenly turn completely silence as they look at the man like he has grown a second head, the silence stretched for a full minute much to his confusion. "Eh, is something wrong?"
"Hino-san that is eh...uhmm..." Tsubasa stuttered unable to find her words.
"Eiji-kun...you are the worst." Hibiki said with a dull expression for once.
"Eh? What did I do?" Eiji asked in surprise at these reactions he getting.
At this point the cream haired girl has learnt a troubling fact that the older male is surprisingly slow when it come to these topic, rather perhaps he just didn't think much about it. Still...
"That doesn't excuse him to just said whatever he want like that! Look at the damage Tsubasa-san is suffering from!" Hibiki thought with a pout.
True enough, Tsubasa's face is still imitating Kanade's hair color, as the same time Tojo who has been keeping her quiet watching in disbelief finally can't hold it in anymore. She burst out laughing.
"Hahaha, Mister you really are...Tsubasa-chan where did you find this adorable gentlemen here?" Nozomi asked in amusement.
"Tojo-san, there you are." Another voice called out.
This time a brown haired girl run toward them, looking rushed. Unlike Tojo and Kazanari, she isn't dressed like an idol, if anything with her jean and t-shirt, one can guess she another staff member here.
"You are slow Ritsuko, isn't your job as my manager is to always be by my side?" Nozomi chided coldly, her teasing smile gone momentarily.
"I...I'm sorry, but is not like you were suppose to walk over this area, there are other project scheduled today." The now named Ritsuko said timidly.
"No excuse, if you can't do your job properly you gonna get yelled at again, how many times have I told you that? Beside, what's wrong with me stretching myself after a long hour of work? Can't you see I am talking with a colleague that just get discharged from a hospital? Isn't normal for me to greet her as courtesy?" Nozomi asked, crossing her arms with an intimidated pressure.
"You right, sorry." Ritsuko said, looking down.
Both Tachibana and Hino give the brown haired girl a sympathized look while Tsubasa frowned at the exchange.
"Hah, sometimes I wish she is as competent as your manager, Tsubasa-chan." Nozomi said with a cold smile.
"You shouldn't so casually dismiss someone effort like that, especially one who looking out for you." Tsubasa said with some heat in her tone.
Especially since the bluenette still remember her recent blunder of pushing those closes to her away due to the Yummy's influence and her own weakness.
"It's called tough love Tsubasa-chan, unlike when we deal with our fan, giving a sweet side to everyone isn't gonna cut it." Nozomi said with a shrug.
Both the purple hair and the bluenette lock gaze to each other, it as if one can see lightning shoot out from their eyes.
"Please it alright." Ritsuko cut in, likely feeling a tension between the two idol rising and doesn't like that it might have stem from her. "Tojo-san really is just showing me the rope." She said, turning toward the purple haired idol. "Please Tojo-san, we really need to go now."
"Hm alright, it is a busy day ahead after all. I can't remain idly if I want to surpass our No. 1 idol here right?" Nozomi said with a wink toward the still frowning Tsubasa. "Well then have a good days, oh and cutie over there." She said looking at a startled Hibiki. "Between me and Tsubasa-chan here who would you listen to more?" She asked testily.
"Eh? Well...Tsubasa-chan is my friend so I have to support her but...I like your music as well!" Hibiki answered with an earnest tone.
"Hah, that's as good as I get I suppose." Nozomi said with an amused gaze, not at all seems bothered by Hibiki basically ranking her below Tsubasa. "You are lucky for sure Tsubasa-chan, take care of your health and give my regard to your friend."
With a wave the purple haired idol and her assistant leave the place. Kazanari then let out a breath she seems to be holding, her expression still rigid.
"I'm assuming Tsubasa-chan doesn't get along well with Tojo?"
Eiji asked Tachibana after seeing the bluenette's reaction.
"Well..." Hibiki muttered unsure, tilting her head.
"It just her style seemingly clash with Tsubasa-kun a lot." Shinji answered, walking up to them. "Till this day she is one of the few who can make Tsubasa break her cold persona when she not on stage." He said then paused with an awkward smile. "While usually that's a good thing I suppose you guys already guessed in this case it not so much."
"I just can't handle her personalities." Tsubasa admitted with a sigh, crossing her arms.
Just then, some employees talking among each other as they look at where Nozomi left.
"Uwah, Tojo-san is as beautiful as ever." One of the guy said in a day dream voice.
"Heh, given up man, you will never reach her view." The other guy said.
"Who know, maybe if you manage to become a successful producer, you might have a chance since that seems to be her type." Another girl commented with a chuckle.
They then continue to work while still chatting among themselves, however, their conversation was overheard by Tsubasa's group as Tachibana make a small gasp.
"Ah...come to think of it there were some articles mentioned this isn't?" Hibiki asked timidly.
The girl didn't bother to follow them for long since she not interest about news that defame other however, it was still a trending topic among the show business news.
Hino blinked in surprise hearing this while Ogawa nodded.
"Indeed, is it hearsay or not it hard to tell in these line of business but Tojo herself has make no attempt to deny or make any comment about those articles." Shinji said.
Now Eiji feel like he understand even more, it not just personality clashing, rather if this rumor is true no doubt this is the biggest offend to Tsubasa who is proud of her song. After all, it represent so much for the girl, it both the reliable power to protect other and a way for her to connect to her friend, to bring smile to other.
Still...
"She doesn't strike me as such a person though?" Eiji said, tilting his head.
Though it was a passing a comment, his supposed defense of the purple haired idol draw a dry look from both Hibiki and Tsubasa.
"Eiji-kun, don't tell me...you get tricked by her charm?" Hibiki asked accusingly, despite the fact she herself didn't fully trust the rumor.
"Hino-san, I...honestly I expect more from you." Tsubasa said with a saddened frown, again, she herself hasn't fully believe those rumor yet.
"It would really help if you can clarify just what you expecting from me." Eiji said with a weak smile.
He then turn to a fellow man in hope of an assistant, only to see the man has liven up to his name as a modern day ninja and already sneaked off. Honestly, Hino would be lying if he said he didn't feel a tad bit betrayed.
After that interesting interaction, the photoshoot resume for about half an hour. During that time Shinji, Eiji and Hibiki keep their eyes open for any abnormality, thankfully, nothing stand out.
"Alright great job, Kazanari-kun. The rest is my jobs, you go ahead and take a change." Kent said with a thumb up, holding his trusty camera on his other hand.
"My thanks, Kent-san." Tsubasa said with a bow.
She then proceed to walk to the changing room with a satisfied sigh, the girl really is someone who find comfort in a familiar daily routine of work.
"Shinji-san, nothing seems to happen." Eiji said.
"Uhm, it's good that it is. Honestly it would have been quite troublesome anyway if we make Hibiki-kun and you show off your powers in this place where so many people know Tsubasa." Shinji said with a relieved tone.
Hino admittedly hasn't thought of that. Sure, is not like he go around publicly advertise the fact he is a Kamen Rider, but compare to some of the other Riders like W he really never care much for his secret identity. The fact he consciously keep his identity hidden during the first few months in this world is also something drilled into his head by Ankh, not a conscious choice made by Eiji himself. But now he is reminded it is not just about him, if he not careful he could inconvenience the life of the Gear Users as well. This make Eiji put a mental note to be more self aware when and where he decide to transform just in case.
"I guess we can relax then, I mean I was enjoying the show don't get me wrong." Hibiki hastily corrected herself, not wanting Shinji to get the wrong idea. "However it was indeed quite stressing to be on alert like someone will start attacking us out of nowhere." She admitted with a sheepish chuckle.
"Rest assure I understand what you mean." Shinji said with a kind smile. "Again I am grateful you all did this. I guess we can- "
"KYAHH!"
The panic scream of the girl who showed Eiji and Tsubasa to the snack bar can be heard, she also the one who accompanied Tsubasa to the changing room. The trio shared a look for a second before they dashed toward the source of the noises, everyone else still showing a confused expression from the sudden scream of panic.
A same thought shared by the three.
"Look like we thought too soon!"
A few minutes prior, the bluenette idol is walking toward her changing room accompanied by the staff member.
"Thanks for the hard work today, Kazanari-san. Go ahead and change, if you need anything just let me know." The staff member said. The girl opened the door for the bluenette, yet that also when she saw a sight that make her heart leap out of her body "Wah!" She shouted in surprise.
Out of nowhere, standing in the middle of the room is a walking shark, that's the only words she can use to describe it. The staff member have many thought run through her head. That can't be real is it? But it so realistic to be an outfit? No, wait, how does it appear here in the first place?!
In contrast, Tsubasa's mind already kick to gear the moment she saw the monster stand in the middle of the room.
"Look out!" Tsubasa shouted.
She instantly run forth and pushed the staff member and herself out of the way, just in time as the shark monster charge forth and missed them by a second. As a result it crashed into the wall, leaving a big crack that no human in a cosplay outfit could have made.
"K...KYAH!" The staff member shouted in full frightening mode this time as she saw this.
This lead to the current moment as the trio already made their way to the changing room.
"It is a Yummy!" Eiji exclaimed knowingly. "This time is a Mezool's kind."
"It a shark on land?" Hibiki spluttered in confusion.
Tachibana is close, the official name for this one would be Same Yummy.
"You guys be careful, I will make sure no one come here and keep everyone's safe." Shinji said with a cautious tone.
The other two nod.
"Hibiki-chan, be careful. I don't know if this one have any new abilities but the one I know it have is that it can dive underground like water." Eiji warned, strapping on the OOO Driver.
"Eh? Dive underground?...How would...Anyway I got it!" Hibiki shook off her confusion. The girl then closed her eyes and concentrate. "Balwisvall nescell Gungnir tron."
"HENSHIN!" Eiji exclaimed as he swipe the OOO Scanner across his belt.
[LION-UNAGI-CONDOR!]
As both the energy orb and Core Medals energy plate surrounded Hibiki and Eiji respectively, the former burst into spark of light to reveal the girl clad in Gungnir Gear and the latter slam into Eiji, transforming him into Kamen Rider OOO, the mismatch Combo Laudol. The two quickly assumed their battle stance and rush toward the Yummy who already notice the incoming attack, with a growl it also rush forth meeting the two in battle.
On the other side, Tsubasa carried the girl who is still confused about what's going on. Before she can see Hibiki and Eiji transform, Shinji is already there putting himself between them, conveniently blocking the view.
"You guys okay? This place is dangerous, let's get out of here." Shinji said.
"W...what?" The staff member said in confusion.
Not waiting for her response, the ninja already lift her up bridal style and start running. Even in this situation the girl can't help but be embarrassed to be in such close proximity to such a handsome and let's not forget the fact he is bridal carrying her!
"Come on Tsubasa-kun, remember where we are right now." Shinji said as a warning.
His words of course is clear, given right now she is here as Kazanari Tsubasa, the idol of Zwei Wing, with all the commotion people would be looking for her the most so she can't just run off without the entire staff going nuts and look for her. That would make the matter worse with the Yummy running amok.
That doesn't mean the bluenette like it one bit, despite still feeling some pain in her healing leg, she wanted to join in and help. Especially when it clear this monster come for her, thus the girl throw one last glance at the fight before begrudgingly followed Shinji.
"You definitely know what's going on, we need to have a talk after this Manager-san." Tsubasa said with a narrowed gaze.
Ogawa let out a sigh, yep, his idol is definitely not happy. Kind of expected really.
Playing Gekisou Gungnir.
On the other hand, the fight has begun. Hibiki went in first for a punch but the Yummy already make use of the ability she was warned about, it instantly dived down. The floor it stood on part like clear liquid before reformed back to solid ground, with the Yummy 'swimming' underneath it.
"So that's what Eiji-kun mean, yep it look as weird as I expected!" Hibiki thought with a sweat-drop.
At that moment the Yummy leap out of the 'sea' behind the cream haired girl, aiming for a sneak counterattack. However, OOO already cover the girl's blind spot. He quickly swing the Unagi Whips, tying it around the shark monster's torso. Surprised by the sudden binding of movement, the Yummy quickly turned toward OOO to try and free itself, only for Hibiki to take this moment and send a piercing punch right at it back. Spark shot out from the impact, the Yummy grumbled in pain, but that's not all. The Rider instantly send a voltage of electricity from the Unagi's Whip, shocking the Same Yummy, further damaging it.
"Hibiki-chan, we can't fight here!" OOO exclaimed.
The cream haired girl nod in understanding, then she and the Rider tackled the Yummy crashing through the building wall and leap out of it. They landed onto a street with few people walking by, however the moment they saw a girl clad in a weird armor, another person completely clad in another weird armor and a shark monster crash through the sky? They know it a cue to start running away from whatever is happening. With no fear of surrounding anymore, OOO and Hibiki about to continue their attacks, however that's also when the Yummy managed to free itself from the binding and dive into the street once more.
Both the Rider and the Gear User instinctively stand back to back to cover their weak spot completely, keeping a focus gaze to see where the Same Yummy would pop out from. Only to find themselves surprised when the answer is more than one spot, as multiple Same Yummy emerge from the ground surrounding the duo.
"It can clone itself?!" Hibiki asked in alarm.
"It must be an upgrade, back then there is more than one only because it stored its eggs somewhere and they hatched." OOO guessed. However, if this is the extend of the Yummy upgrade, it isn't beyond what they can handle, that was the thought running through both of their mind. At that moment the group of Same Yummy rush toward them. Only one of them stand back and watch. No doubt that must be the real one! If OOO and Hibiki can deal with these clones then they can take care of the Yummy before it can escape. However, the two find something is wrong when the Yummy rushed at them didn't both to fight back and only latched onto them. The reason is clear when they start to glow in the color of the Noises. "This is bad!? Hibiki-chan we need to get away!"
After leaving the staff member behind for other staff to take care of her, Tsubasa managed to find a convenient moment to slip off. With the explanation being Shinji as the manager is ensuring her safety by taking her away from here, he know there is no way the bluenette can handle sitting by and do nothing. It already a miracle she held herself back for so long, yet the moment she and him managed to get to the scene, they were just in time to see the Rider and the Gungnir's User get engulfed in the watery explosion.
BOOM! BOOM! BOOM! BOOM! BOOM!
The pressure and shockwave was so strong that despite standing far away from it, both Shinji and Tsubasa can feel the force push themselves down to the ground.
Rather than a fiery one it is one full of pressurized water. No it more accurate to said the epicenter must have been like what happen if a waves of water suddenly crash right down into it, a deep crate is left behind with the area around it flattened and wash away by the left over water. The Same Yummy left out a satisfied growl then it dive away.
"No..." Tsubasa mutter with a horrified expression, shared by Shinji as they both managed to stood up and saw the devastating aftermath of the attack. "HIBIKI! EIJI!"
The girl's scream echoed through the empty ruined street.
NOOB'S NOTE: And that is! Hope this chapter was enjoyable to you guys who spend time to read it. And if anyone recognize it since I keep the name the same, yes I used two characters from two idol anime Love Live and Idolmaster, I have always want to do another chap focus more on Tsubasa since I feel my other chap give a good enough focus on Hibiki and Chris, with the former being easy given the plot revolve around her and the latter had her own dedicated chapters already. I would said after this we are near the end of Fine's Arc for the story since her final plan is ready to be in gear as this chapter also hint. Now for the two characters I used, sorry to said but since it was idol related for Tsubasa I searched up idol anime characters and found these two with their look seems to work for what I have in mind, not knowing anything about their personalities is so apology in advance if any fan of these two anime happen to read this and I get their characters wrong (^_^;). Well you can think of this as an AR version of them that share nothing in similarity beside the look...maybe I should have pulled a Decade and make their last name difference and keep the first name? Oh well. The next chapter will be up as soon as possible, thanks for reading, Panic Out!
