Sympho-Saber: Song of Swords
S1:EP06 – A Much Needed Restart
It was a very active rest of the night for the entirety of Section 2 as the Wielders and Riders were taken to the main hospital situated next to Lydian. While it did work as a hospital for students should anything happen to them, its main purpose was to tend to those in Section 2 due to the nature of their job.
Tsubasa out of the four was the one in the worst condition due to initiating her Swan Song. Rintaro was next due to being extremely close to it, while his finisher acted as a cushion, he was still hurt and had to be assigned a room because of this. Touma had some cuts and scuffs, but ended up being one of the least injured, being patched up and told to take it easy. Due to not directly getting involved in the fights and only being at the edge of Tsubasa's attack, Hibiki was the least injured out of all of them.
Touma himself was currently wandering the halls to see if he could find Hibiki after being told by the doctor he was free to go. Needless to say while he didn't ask for the situation on the others he was listening out to anything he heard, and managed to pick up what had happened mostly.
"We managed to save her life with great difficulty," A doctor's voice caught his attention as he turned the corner to see Genjuro and a few Section 2 Agents conversing with the doctors, "She needs rest until her condition stabilizes. This is crucial."
"Thank you," Genjuro gave a bow with the rest of the agents before turning to them. "We have to trace the armor after she escaped. Do whatever you must!"
Touma quickly pressed himself against a wall to avoid the stampede of agents that hurried off to start their search. He then looked over to Genjuro, "Sir."
"What did they say?" Genjuro asked.
"So long as I don't strain myself, I'm fine to head home," Touma explained, "I'll be a bit sore though so I might end up using one of the beds here at base."
"That's good," Genjuro sighed in relief, "Given Sophia and Dashinji's reactions, I assumed the worst. I'll give you some space."
Touma watched as his superior left before he walked a few steps forward, soon seeing Hibiki sitting in a vending and lounge area that was tucked into the wall nearby.
"Hibiki…" Touma sighed in relief as he went to sit next to his friend, "I see you didn't get that injured either."
"Yeah…" Hibiki gave a nod as she glanced towards her friend before looking down at the floor. She was still thinking about Tsubasa and Rintaro, and while she was genuinely glad that Touma looked to be alright she was still deep in thought over the whole situation.
"What's wrong?" Touma asked.
"I just… Rintaro… and Tsubasa…" Hibiki managed to mutter.
"Those aren't your burdens to bear," Ogawa soon walked in and used his communicator to buy a few drinks, "She chose to sing of her own free will."
"But why would she resort to something like that?" Touma asked.
"As I believe you are well aware, Tsubasa used to be part of a duo," Ogawa explained as he handed a cup of hot chocolate to Touma.
"Zwei Wing, right?" Hibiki asked as she received a cup of hot chocolate as well.
"Her partner was Kanade Amou, bearer of the Gungnir Symphogear, whose fragments are still burrowed in your chest," Ogawa explained, "Two years ago, so that the devastation from the Noise attack on their show would be minimal, Kanade sang her Swan Song."
"Swan Song…" Touma trailed, remembering the reactions that Calibur and the previous Saber had that day. The name had bothered him though, it felt too grim and unfitting to him, though he wondered if the reason it was named was the grim nature of Section 2's work and the secret battles they fought.
"Swan Song…" Hibiki gave a nod, "Tsubasa used that term too."
"The Swan Song amplifies the power of the Symphogear beyond its constraints without regard to the effect it may have on the user," Ogawa explained. "The Noise were annihilated in an instant, but Kanade's life was burnt away with them."
"Did she do it to save me?" Hibiki asked herself, still feeling some guilt over her survival that day.
"Kanade died and Zwei Wing was disbanded," Ogawa said after taking a few long sips from his cup. "Tsubasa was left alone, and to sweep away the gloom Kanade's death left in her heart, she fought with savage fury. She lost a friend who was her own age, and to drive away that sorrow, she lived as a mindless sword with no heed for love or games. And today, prepared to fulfill her duty as a sword, she sang fully expecting to die for it."
"That's why…" Touma muttered in realization that back during the Hanzaki Megid incident, the two had come to a somewhat understanding after he explained why he kept his promises, "So she wanted to make up for two years ago too… in her own way…"
"Tsubasa was admittedly close to using it when fighting Desast," Ogawa admitted.
Touma's eyes widened, "She was?"
Ogawa gave a nod, "But she told me she couldn't do it, because she promised you she wouldn't lose. And going out with a Swan Song would mean just that."
"I… I see…" Touma trailed.
"It's awkward isn't it?" Ogawa asked, "But that's Tsubasa kazanari's way of life."
Hibiki though couldn't take it anymore and let out several tears, "That's such a cruel fate. It must have hurt to hear me want to fight with her. How could I ever replace Kanade?"
"I don't believe you could or should replace Kanade. I don't believe so. No one believes so.I have only one thing to ask of you both, Hibiki, Touma," Ogawa said as he gave a soft smile watching Hibiki wipe her tears, "Please don't hate Tsubasa. Don't let her be all alone in the world."
Hibiki stared at Ogawa before giving a nod after a while, "We won't."
Touma gave a firm look, "It's a promise."
"Thank you for hearing me out, but it seems like you have someone else to understand," Ogawa smiled but excused himself as he caught something out of the corner of his eye, getting up and walking out of the small break area.
The Rider and Wielder were confused, that was until they saw Daishinji walk over, sitting down next to the two while keeping his gaze away from them.
"Daishinji…" Touma trailed. "I'm…"
"Reckless?" Daishinji interrupted before giving a soft chuckle, "Not as reckless as Rintaro I'm afraid. You had no real choice honestly. Honestly I'm glad you had Peter Fantasista on you… if he had it, he would have done something more incredibly stupid."
"O-Oh…" Touma said, remembering how much he had bugged Rintaro to let him borrow the water elemental Story Book. He had felt a bit guilty about it, but he guessed it worked out in the end.
"Daishinji sir… why did… why did Rintaro act like that?" Hibiki asked.
"It's another tale from two years ago," Daishinji explained as he sat deep in thought, his hands clasped together as he kept his gaze downwards, "The Zwei Wing Concert… the tragedy of the Gungnir Wielder wasn't the only one that day."
"What exactly happened?" Touma asked. "I'd like to know."
"And it's best if you do if you're to continue fighting from here on out," Daishinji answered more firmly, "To put it simply, our ally Calibur betrayed us when the Noise started attacking, bringing in the Megid at strategic points to overwhelm us."
2 Years ago…
A pink flash occurred, Daishinji yelling out as he was thrown to the ground, rolling and hitting a wall. He was in his usual uniform but also had a dark blue jacket on. He gave a gasp as he went to lift himself up, utilizing a pink short sword, with a black inner blade that held blue patterning.
"Impossible… are they actually coordinating with the Noise?" Daishinji coughed out.
Approaching him was Legeiel who gave a smirk, having not transformed but simply wielding a large jagged bronze blade with silver edges.
"What a weak swordsman," Legeiel grinned as he approached, "Don't worry I'll relieve that from your grasp."
"I'd like to see you try," Daishinji gave a glare as he got on one knee and lifted his blade.
[ONJUUKEN SUZUNE!]
What happened next caused him to give a light gasp however. Red cracks appeared on the blade of Suzune briefly before fading, "Suzune…" He whispered as his ears twitched, he could hear the sword itself crying out in pain.
"Looks like I might have hit you a bit too hard," Legeiel remarked before giving a chuckle, spreading his arms out as he transformed into a brown armored draconic like monster with a white mask. Narrow red eyes gazed upon the shocked swordsman as he raised his sword.
[DOGOUKEN GEKIDO!]
A large grey cleaver sword with an orange edge broke through, slicing and slamming straight against Legeiel. The Megid Leader gave a gasp as he was sent stumbling back a few steps. He was ready to counter when he was suddenly stabbed by Gekido once more, a thrust being applied as he gave a yell, being thrown backwards and through a wall.
"Daishinji, are you alright?" An older voice asked as Gekido's owner was revealed, it was an older man who looked to be a teacher of sorts. Having khaki pants, a white buttoned up shirt and a plaid jacket, circular glasses shining as he gave a soft smile.
"Kamikawa…" Daishinji trailed as he managed to pick himself up fully. "I'm fine but Suzune…"
"Please just call me Toshi," Kamikawa remarked as he hefted the blade up, despite looking in his 50's he was able to lift the massive sword he held onto his shoulder. He gave a grimace, "Try and regroup with the others, we need a plan."
"What about you?" Daishinji asked.
"I need to get to the stadium immediately," Kamikawa gave a more serious expression as he drew out a Ride Book, rushing forward, "She's right in the middle of all those Noise, I can't just ignore that!" He called out as he loaded it in, rocks spiraling around him as he ran off, "Henshin!"
"Toshi…" Daishinji sighed before running to find someone when he heard an explosion nearby, "What?"
"That damn old man!" Legeiel yelled out as he broke out of the rubble before taking off in the direction where he thought he saw Kamikawa run last, "I'll end his life!"
"Oh no…" Daishinji went to rush after him when Desast suddenly jumped into view, "Crap."
"Oh… a swordsman with a broken sword…" Desast remarked as he pointed his own blade at him, "How lucky for me… but also how boring…"
"You want exciting I'll give you it!"
[FUUSOUKEN HAYATE!]
A green blur shot between the two, wind tearing the ground apart and forcing the two away from each other. Soon enough what looked like a teen in blue ninja-like robes jumped in front of Desast. He raised his hand and caught Hayate, a green colored shuriken which he quickly closed up into a singular blade.
"Ren, don't be stupid!" Daishinji called out, "We need to find the others!"
"Hey you seem pretty strong," Ren ignored Daishinji and called out to Desast as he took out a Wonder Ride Book, "Maybe you won't be as boring as the others!"
"I suppose I can indulge you," Desast gave a chuckle. "But I'm pretty strong."
"No way I'm stronger! And through my strength you'll realize that justice prevails, because strength is justice and justice is strength!" Ren called out as he rushed forward, loading his book into the slot and splitting the blades, "I'll show you all I'm the strongest there is! Henshin!"
"Ren!" Daishinji yelled in frustration, ready to chase after him only for a torrent of wind to erupted form him as Desast unleashed his own attack. Daishinji gave a grunt as he skidded back, quickly dodging a few swipes from some Shimi who tried to attack him while he was distracted.
"Give up!" Leading the Shimi was Golem who chuckled, "There are already hundreds dead! So give up quietly!"
"So long as my heart beats…" Daishinji gave a glare as he looked towards Suzune, "I'm sorry… but please lend me what little strength you still have." He said as he began slashing his way through the approaching Shimi. Managing to find an opening he slipped through and bolted as fast as he could. He'd only use his blade to get by if needed. With Kamikawa rushing for the stadium and Ren foolishly charging in he needed to gather whoever else he could so they could try and get this situation under control.
"Rintaro stay back!"
"Kenshin…" Daishinji's ears twitched as he barely heard the shout. He was briefly struck with fear before turning and bolting forward. He made it towards a deeper section soon seeing a sight that shocked him.
A younger Rintaro could be seen against the wall, having ripped part of his uniform to wrap it around his left arm, though blood could be seen leaking through. Nearby was Kamen Rider Blades, Kenshin Nagamine in his base form. The Tenkuu no Pegasus and Peter Fantasista Ride Books were on the floor nearby as they had been scattered away from him. He was desperately fighting against Zooous who could only laugh out.
Daishinji held Suzune, soon shifting the blade forward to have it split in the middle as it was tilted, revealing it to be a gun. He took aim and pulled the trigger only for nothing to happen, he grimaced, "Please Suzune…" He trailed as he held the gun with both hands, trying to shoot something out to distract Zooous but to no avail.
"Take this!" Zooous laughed out as he crossed his blades, slashing against Blades' chest with both of them. He then flipped backwards before slashing again, unleashing a fireball.
Blades gave a gasp as he was struck by the blades, staggering back before trying to slice against the projectile. He grunted as it was too fast for him, striking him directly in the chest, sparks flying everywhere as his body fell limp.
"R-Rintaro…" Blades muttered out as he fell to his knees, his sword dropping from his hand as he fell forward. He soon lost his transformation but gave a defiant grunt, trying to push himself up.
Rintaro could only stammer in surprise, "M-Master!"
"Now then… you gave me a good fight so I'll take care of the weakling first," Zooous knew that his opponent was done, running forward and stabbing at Rintaro only for Kenshin to suddenly get in the way.
The Swordsman of Water gave a gasp as he was run through his stomach by the twin blades. However in forcing himself up he had grabbed his fallen sword. He gave a yell as he stabbed directly against Zooous' mouth, sparks flying as the Megid Leader howled out in pain.
Zooous slashed out as he removed his blades, causing further damage before staggering back. The Megid Leader dropped his blades and held his mouth in pain as he screamed out.
Kenshin meanwhile gasped for air as he soon fell on his back.
"Master…!" Rintaro hurried over to check on his fallen teacher. "We need to get you somewhere safe…" He trailed as he tried to lift Kenshin up only for the elder swordsman to force himself out of his students grip and back onto the floor. "Master…"
"I'll always be with you… so long as you carry Nagare…" Kenshin coughed as blood leaked from his mouth. He held out Lion Senki before pushing it into Rintaro's free hand, "Stand tall… my pupil…"
"Master…" Rintaro began to tear up as his Master raised a hand up to ruffle his hair.
"Rintaro…" Kenshin gave a soft smile before he suddenly fell limp his eyes closing as his hand fell from his students head.
Zooous shook his head as he was ready to get back towards the fight when he suddenly yelled out again, sparks flying as Daishinji had run over and slashed the Megid Leader, hitting his mouth once more.
"We need to run, Rintaro!" Daishinji called out as he sheathed Suzune before quickly picking up Tenkuu no Pegasus.
"Master Nagamine…" Rintaro cried out as he kneeled over his fallen master, gripping Lion Senki tightly.
"Nagare… please forgive me for using you so hastily but I must protect the one who will wield you next," Daishinji quickly grabbed the blade of water, scanning Tenkuu no Pegasus.
[PEGASUS! MM-HM! SHUUTOKU ISSEN!]
He gripped the blade with both hands before stabbing it against the ground, unleashing a flurry of feathers that encircled the two of them before spreading out and causing minor explosions that rocked the area they were in.
Zooous had recovered only to brace against the explosions, giving a growl he swiped forward to wave away the smoke. To his surprise both Daishinji and Rintaro were gone, the only thing left being Kenshin's fallen body and the Peter Fantasista Wonder Ride Book. Zooous could only scoff as he dismissed his weapons, grabbing the Wonder Ride Book before taking off.
Present Day…
"I… I didn't know…" Hibiki sniffled as she received a handkerchief from Daishinji who had scooted closer and offered them out.
"All those Swordsmen are gone… right?" Touma asked with a sniffle, rubbing his eyes as he had begun to tear up as the story went further.
"Kamikawa was strong but Legeiel was stronger…" Daishinji gave a nod, "Ren well… he was a hot-headed kid who managed to fit the physical requirements to become a swordsman. The main reason he managed to get through was because we needed a new Swordsman of Wind and our leader at the time was a kind one. But Ren's attitude was what got him slain."
"What about the others?" Touma asked once more.
"After finding a safe place to regroup at, a sudden wave shot through the area," Daishinji replied as he twiddled his thumbs a bit, "I wasn't sure what it was at the time, but it managed to eradicate the Shimi and seal the minor Megid."
"A sudden wave…?" Hibiki asked, "Was that Kanade's…"
"No wait, I remember something else too," Touma realized, "Saber… he…"
"From what you've said of how you gained Brave Dragon… and the reports on that day…" Daishinji paused as he collected his thoughts, "It's likely that Saber's attack and the Swan Song reacted to each other once they collided and sent a strange new energy throughout the arena. Regardless… afterwards Saber, Espada and Calibur were declared MIA."
"Is that why you're so harsh on me?" Touma asked.
"Indeed," Daishinji gave a nod as he kept glancing at the ground, "After losing so many allies that day and suddenly receiving someone who barely has any idea what they're doing… I had to be harsh."
"Sorry if I haven't been doing much," Touma sighed and looked down, "I feel like despite all the Wonder Ride Books I'm getting, I'm still not making much progress. Rekka's probably disappointed…"
"Rekka is…" Daishinji trailed before closing his eyes and giving a nod, "Rekka is content."
Hibiki looked up in surprise, "It is?"
"Wait," Touma's head shot up in surprise, "Rekka's content with me?"
"It chose you, and despite how you wield it, it still see's you as a valuable partner," Daishinji answered before crossing his arms, "Regardless, you are right. While your abilities and creativity are strong, you are lacking as a swordsman."
"I figured," Touma rubbed the back of his neck before realizing something, "Wait…"
Hibiki realized it too, "Wait, didn't Sophia mention there was a Slash?"
"I think I figured it out," Touma realized, "Daishinji, you were Slash weren't you?"
"I was…" Daishinji gave a sad smile, "But I ignored my blades cries, it's why I chose to become more serious in my swordsmithing duties."
"So is it gone forever?" Hibiki asked with a pause before continuing, "Suzune I mean…"
"Suzune is under repair thankfully, but it's a long arduous process," Daishinji admitted, "I'm still in no condition to fight."
"Well if it's under repair then you don't have to worry too much right?" Hibiki asked, causing Touma to turn towards her, "I mean, it might take a while but you'll still be able to fight alongside each other again. And now you know to be more understanding, right?"
Daishinji couldn't help but let out a soft chuckle as he glanced towards the girl, "Hibiki… don't ever lose that kind heart of yours."
"Even if you can't fight…" Touma spoke up, "Is there any way you could help me fight?"
"Help you?" Daishinji raised an eyebrow.
"I figured I could learn a lot from you," Touma answered before standing up and giving a bow, "I'd like to train with you, if you wouldn't mind."
"I'll consider it," Daishinji admitted as he stood up before cracking his neck, he held his hand up as he blocked his eyes from view as he exited the small break area, "For now get your rest."
"Right," Touma said, standing and giving another bow before sitting back down. He figured he'd spend some time with Hibiki now that they had a lot to sort out.
Daishinji meanwhile wandered the halls of the hospital before noticing Sophia walking away, "How much did you hear?"
"Enough," Sophia admitted before turning with a smile, "I think things will be alright."
"I hope so," Daishinji admitted before taking out Storm Eagle, "I'm going to need to make sure they're strong enough, at least until I can get back on stage."
"Gekido and Hayate are available," Sophia reminded.
"It would feel wrong using their swords," Daishinji admitted as he pocketed the book, "And we don't have anyone who could possibly wield them."
"There… are a few options," Sophia admitted before looking off to the side, "Though you wouldn't agree."
"You're right," Daishinji admitted as he walked closer, soon getting beside Sophia, his voice becoming hushed, "While they are genuinely alright, there's a bad feeling still at the pit of my stomach."
"Given what happened, correct?" Sophia asked in a low voice before giving a nod, "If that girl with Nehushtan knew about Hibiki then that means Section 2 has…"
"Right," Daishinji stopped his superior from uttering the words, "It means we have to be careful about our next move."
"In this case though, I do feel as if we can come to an understanding," Sophia admitted. "After all, both our dwindled group and Section 2 now share something common. A mutual ground that I feel will allow us to stand together from here on out."
"I suppose we do…" Daishinji gave a nod before taking off.
Tsubasa was currently comatose from her injuries. She was placed in an advanced medical bed that acted as a pod, it monitoring all her vitals as she was wrapped in a blanket alongside being bandaged from nearly head to toe, her respirator fogging up briefly as she laid still. She couldn't feel anything at the moment, at least physically.
Mentally she felt like she was falling endlessly in what looked to be an endless sky. That was until she felt something pass her, quickly turning to where she was now standing in mid-air. That was when she saw a familiar sight, a girl with long red hair. The scene seemed to change just as quickly as they now were under a sea of blue.
"Kanade…" Tsubasa managed to get out.
Kanade turned with a blank look in her eyes as she had a neutral expression.
"One wing is enough to fly! I'll show you I can climb to any height!" Tsubasa called out, hoping to get some kind of change in expression only to receive nothing, "Just smile! Please, Kanade!" With her last words she gasped out as the scenic change matched her falling mood, she soon felt like she was drowning as she fell deeper into the dark abyss of the ocean.
Kanade could only stare for a few seconds longer before launching upwards and further away from Tsubasa.
A meeting had been called after the failure to find the girl in the Nehushtan Armor alongside any sort of clue regarding her allies in her operation, Zooous and Desast. Needless to say, the idea of a traitor was hinted at briefly and Hibiki's morale had essentially plummeted after all the revelations unveiled. Touma couldn't help but worry for his friend as he watched her head back up to return to Lydian.
After the meeting Touma had decided to take a brief nap in one of the rest rooms that Section 2 had for those who didn't feel the need to go immediately home.
Waking up he gave a stretch and was surprised to see that it was around noon, granted given he fell asleep early in the morning so it made sense. Making sure he was presentable he made sure he had his guest pass for Lydian on him. He had been given it at the start of his job, to where he could easily make sure that no one questioned why he was there. Of course he was hoping to get away with easily exiting the school to get back to his shop.
"Touma is that you?"
Touma froze as he heard a familiar voice, turning slowly to see a confused Miku, "A-Ah Miku, funny seeing you here."
"I'm honestly surprised to see you here," Miku admitted as she walked over, "What brings you to Lydian?"
"Um uh… oh," Touma needed to think quickly and snapped his fingers, he hated lying but he needed an excuse, "I've been thinking of stocking up on a variety of different books and wanted to take a peek at what the library had."
"You really think there's stuff here?" Miku asked.
"Surprisingly there was," Touma replied, he knew this was a lie, he wasn't even sure if the library did have any good books. But he needed an alibi and quickly, so he was hoping that Miku wouldn't poke about and ask the librarian. "So I was able to compile a list of authors and series together."
"Oh, that's good," Miku smiled before noticing something, "Hey, are you alright?"
"Huh?" Touma soon realized she had noticed that one of the bandages underneath his sleeve was showing. He waved it off before giving a nervous chuckle and rubbing the back of his neck, "Oh yeah… I ended up getting in a small accident last night. Nothing too major"
"I swear," Miku sighed as she pinched the bridge of her nose, "You're such a clumsy guy."
"Oh I'm hurt," Touma pressed a hand against his chest, but winced a bit, quickly shaking it off and glad that Miku wasn't directly looking at him, "I'm probably going to head back to the shop now."
"Actually do you mind coming with me?" Miku asked, "I wanted to see how Hibiki was doing."
"Ah she's been spending more time by herself?" Touma asked, feigning ignorance as he knew the real reason.
"Just a bit and she's been getting more and more down as of late," Miku admitted. "But I figured seeing you might help me cheer her up since it's been a while since you two have seen each other."
Touma knew this was also false but gave a smile regardless, "That sounds nice. I think I'll accompany you then."
Miku gave a nod before leading to where she figured Hibiki was spending her time, which was a rooftop lounge that had various benches on it. The two quietly approached a pondering Hibiki who was thinking on the meeting earlier on in the day.
"Hibiki?" Miku asked, smiling when she saw Hibiki break out of her thoughts to see the two of them.
"Miku, Touma?" Hibiki asked, trying to hide the concern that Miku had possibly found out.
"He was doing some research on some books," Miku explained as she walked forward.
"Yep," Touma smiled though because he lagged behind Miku he made several quick gestures that he just barely managed to make up a story in time so he wouldn't get caught.
Hibiki could breathe easily, and gave a smile, "Oh, is that all?"
"You've gone on a solitary streak lately," Miku mentioned.
"Really? Are you sure about that?" Hibiki immediately went into panic mode once more, wondering if this was a trap devised by Miku to get them to spill. So she did what only she could do best, she rambled as she rubbed the back of her head with a nervous laugh, "I'm no good on my own. Remember that I only enrolled here because you were going to? You know, isn't the tuition surprisingly cheap around here? I thought I wouldn't have to sponge off my mom and granny as much!"
Touma could only sigh as he saw Hibiki's defense mechanism at work, walking closer as he saw Miku take the spot next to Hibiki on the bench.
Miku meanwhile gently took Hibiki's hand, saying nothing as she tried to let Hibiki subtly know that it was alright to speak her mind.
"I can't hide it from you, can I?" Hibiki asked as she looked down.
"Don't put yourself through this, Hibiki," Miku gave a soft smile.
"Please give me some breathing room, though," Hibiki admitted, she was grateful for Miku and especially Touma being there for her. But after last night's encounter, "I have to think this through alone."
"Okay," Miku complied.
"Thanks, Miku," Hibiki answered.
"You know, Hibiki…" Miku started as she stood up, still wanting to help her friend, "Whatever you decide to do next, be sure to remain true to yourself."
Hibiki could only stare, "Remain true to myself?"
"Yeah, you don't have to change. Just go on being yourself, I will support you." Miku said as she looked out into the distance before turning towards her friend, "You're irreplaceable, you know. I don't want to lose you."
"Is it okay for me to remain true to myself?" Hibiki asked as she looked down once more.
"Hibiki should be Hibiki," Miku said simply.
"Being a person means you're constantly growing in minor ways, whether it's physically or mentally," Touma spoke up, "But that doesn't mean you can't stay true to who you really are."
"I have people I want to protect!"
"Hibiki… don't ever lose that kind heart of yours."
Hibiki could hear both her own and Daishinji's words from earlier on echo through her mind. She looked over at Miku who gave a reassuring smile, then towards Touma who did the same. She stood up and stared out towards the campus hospital where Tsubasa was housed before looking down at her right hand, gripping it.
"Thank you, Miku, Touma," Hibiki had a more determined look now she turned towards her friends and gave a genuine smile, "I feel I can take steps forward as I am."
Touma simply waved it off since Miku did most of the heavy lifting, but he was glad to see a change in Hibiki by just reading her expressions.
"Oh right, you two want to watch the Lyra meteor shower?" Miku offered as she took out her phone. "I took a video of it."
"Oh, so you did get a video," Touma remarked.
Upon viewing the video however, something was clearly wrong… mostly in that it was entirely black with little to no actual visibility in what was going on.
"It's all black…" Hibiki trailed.
"I think if you squint hard enough you might," Touma squinted before backing off and shaking his head, "Actually no, that doesn't work."
"Yeah," Miku gave a sheepish chuckle, "It was night and all."
Hibiki was in disbelief, "No way!"
It wasn't long before all three began to laugh, Hibiki laughing so hard she began to tear up a bit.
"Oh man, I can't stop crying," Hibiki admitted as she wiped her eyes, "Let's make sure we all see it next time."
"It's a promise, okay? Let's make this one a promise for real," Miku gave a smile.
"Trying to steal my thunder huh?" Touma put his hands on his hips, "Still a promise between two childhood friends is always good."
"You make it sound like you don't want to be a part of this," Hibiki remarked.
"To be honest I think this should be a just you two thing," Touma admitted as he rubbed the back of his head. He figured it would be best for the two of them to do something like that on their own. Mostly since he already figured how close the two were, "But promise me you'll take actually good video of it!"
Miku gave a small smile, "Then that's our promise."
Hibiki could only stare out into the distance with renewed determination, 'I have people I want to protect as well! It might just be a small heartfelt promise or my quiet everyday life, but I want become stronger to protect them and still be myself!'
Rintaro gave a wince as light shined on his sleeping face, slowly but surely giving a light groan as he began to wake up. He had ended up passing out shortly after being treated, and had been knocked out until recently. He glanced around as his eyes adjusted, giving a light sigh.
"I see you're awake," Daishinji spoke up, sitting in a chair next to his ally's bed.
"Daishinji…" Rintaro trailed as he shifted his head, "How long have you…"
"Just an hour," Daishinji replied, "The rest of the time I've been working on making sure Rekka and Nagare and the Ride Books have been maintained."
"I take it Nagare's mad at me…" Rintaro chuckled softly.
"Worried is the better word," Daishinji admitted as he looked over, "I'm mad at you however…"
"I'm sorry I just… I can't forgive him…" Rintaro trailed as he went to stare back up at the ceiling, "I wanted to make up for my weakness. Those years ago I had gotten ambushed by Zooous but Master Nagamine stepped in and… and then he…"
"You won't be able to avenge him if you act irrationally though," Daishinji answered firmly as he looked over at the Swordsman of Water, he sighed however, "I can understand your pain but you need to act carefully about this. You were lucky that Touma held onto Peter Fantasista… you probably would have attempted a Wonder Combo if you had it on you."
Rintaro gave a dry chuckle, "I'm that easy to read huh?"
"You may be upstanding and noble but you're also reckless when it comes to these situations," Daishinji replied. "There are more people than Sophia and I that care about you now. Especially that girl, she was back to crying when she heard what happened alongside Touma…"
"You told them?" Rintaro asked as he shifted his head quickly, giving a wince when he did.
"She deserved to know after you acted that way in front of her," Daishinji replied. "I figured it was right to let them know. I wanted them to understand what exactly we're dealing with."
Rintaro gave a light cough as he chuckled, "I guess I should apologize to her when I get the chance…"
"You probably should," Daishinji said as he stood up, "I'll keep Nagare safe until you recover so just rest. You'll need it since your next step is mastering the Wonder Combo. That is if you plan on continuing…"
"Of course," Rintaro said as he felt it was the obvious answer as he stared up at the ceiling. "I won't give up on myself."
"Good," Daishinji smiled as he turned to exit, "I'll make sure to train both you and Touma well since he asked me to."
Rintaro could only watch as Daishinji left, "Touma asked him to?"
"You're being stubborn about this."
"You really think I care what you think?"
Calibur was currently walking after the white haired girl who wore the Nehushtan Armor. She was back in her civilian clothes and was currently wandering around the mansion until she was needed. Of course she had a few visible bandages but gave a wince occasionally as she held her side, it being the same area where her armor had cracked and dug into.
"It's not about what I think," Calibur insisted, "That armor is a nuisance given it eats away at you while trying to fuse with your body. To the point where you need to do something about it after you get those heavy injuries."
"And, what's your point?" The Nehushtan Girl asked.
"I can help you easily deal with it instead of having to go to her for what I'm assuming is even worse treatment," Calibur said as he currently held a yellow Wonder Ride Book, a Cerberus creature on it as it held the title Tri-Cerberus. When the girl didn't answer he gave a groan and looked to the side, "Honestly Chris…"
"Don't you dare speak my name," The girl turned with a glare.
"Fine then," Calibur said as he turned away, "I am simply only trying to help ease any pain you might have. But if you so wish to do this the hard way…"
"I didn't take you as someone who cared," Chris scoffed, "Especially since you barely had interacted with us before things started up recently. Just what exactly are you after?"
"The truth," Calibur replied.
"What's that supposed to mean?" Chris raised an eyebrow before shaking her head and turning away, "Whatever, feels weird that a guy like you wants something as simple as the truth."
"My goals are a lot more complex than you give me credit for, even if I do play the simple role of a villain," Calibur replied, "I'll leave you to your own devices though, I'm sure you'd rather not extend this conversation further."
"You're all just a bunch of freaks…" Chris muttered and glanced back as she watched Calibur walk off. Thinking on Calibur and the Megid unnerved her to no end, especially the latest one they had brought out extensively, Desast. She just hoped that their partnership would end soon, clearly wanting to just deal with everything on her own.
Sitting on the dock at the edge of the estate was Desast, sitting forward enough to where he dipped his toes in the water. He couldn't help but let out a satisfied sigh as he relaxed, thinking back to his fight with Touma.
"What a wonderful fight that was even if he lost…" The chimera Megid admitted to himself as he kicked his feet back and forth. He could only stare out at the lake before him, gripping the edge of the dock tightly. "I need my book back…" He hissed silently, hating how he was basically under lock and key when it came to his new life. Of course that was his purpose, to be an added weapon for them… something he hated. He loved to fight, but he desired freedom more than anything else, there was no point to strength or fights if he wasn't free…
A Few Days Later…
Touma wasn't sure why he was here, though a part of him wondered if it was just simply being moral support. He was currently staring at an estate, the front plaque reading 'Kazanari' as he was with Hibiki who had wanted to meet with Genjuro fairly early in the morning. And given it was a school day Touma also had to wonder why exactly Hibiki was skipping school…
It wasn't long before a confused and clearly still waking up Genjuro opened the doors to greet them.
"Master!" Hibiki shouted.
Touma raised an eyebrow, "Eh?"
Genjuro was a bit startled by Hibiki and Touma's sudden appearance, "What is it?"
"Please teach me how to fight!" Hibiki called out before giving a bow.
"Me? Teach you?" Genjuro asked in near surprise.
"Exactly! I figured you'd know some amazing martial arts!" Hibiki explained as she held her fists close to her, remembering how the commander was able to easily stop Tsubasa's attack. If she couldn't summon her Armed Gear then she needed an alternative.
"Huh… that is true," Touma remembered how surprised he was at Genjuro's skills. If the explosively powerful Commander had some kind of protection and way to fight the Noise, he'd be unstoppable.
Genjuro thought on it a bit before crossing his arms and giving a firm stare, "My training is rather harsh."
"That's okay!" Hibiki called out.
"Now then, I can understand Hibiki," Genjuro looked over at Touma, "But you?"
"Honestly I was wondering that myself," Touma admitted as he rubbed the back of his head. "I thought I was here for moral support but…"
"Well if I'm training then it's not just learning moves right? Its exercise," Hibiki explained the reasoning behind dragging her friend with her, "I figured since you want to train with Daishinji on sword stuff you could also train and get your body worked up with me."
"I do have a fair amount of exercise routines," Genjuro admitted, "Especially since I'd help Tsubasa with stuff that doesn't involve swordplay, would you be up for it?"
Touma gave a light gulp, wondering if he'd be able to handle this, but he also realized that he wasn't that physically fit. If he was going to continue as a Swordsman and especially as a Kamen Rider, he'd need to train his body as well as master swordplay.
"I'll do it," Touma gave a determined stare before that slacked slightly, "At least to start out with anyway, I could work on improving my body."
"I'm sure I can get you a good workout routine," Genjuro grinned, glad to see the two wanting to take charge and change. He gave a more curious look, "By the way, are you two into action movies?"
Hibiki and Touma could only stare at these words.
"What?"
To say the training was odd at first was an understatement, the fact of the matter was that it started from a place no one expected… movies. Bruce Lee, Jackie Chan, Ip Man, any martial arts action flick they could find. Genjuro even put on a few classic samurai films to help Touma familiarize himself with various stances and techniques when it came to swordplay. Genjuro even unveiled what he considered his secret stash, having managed to compile together a series of archive footage regarding older Riders that people had managed to film. The purpose in this was him wanting to build up Touma's Rider spirit by watching his predecessors.
Eventually it came to standard exercising, running, sit-ups, push-ups, etc. And after that Hibiki went onto more practical exercises involving punching bags. Of course Touma would still join in when it came to exercising and endurance training.
As the days passed it wouldn't be long until Touma started arriving at Section 2 to receive sword training from Daishinji. The former Swordsman now Swordsmith working through the various basic motions with both Touma and Rintaro present. The two would train together and train hard, as both needed to better themselves for the coming battles while Hibiki did the same.
Late at night and just outside the city limits there was a cliff that held a grand view of the city. But more importantly it was far enough to where it was out of range of Section 2's immediate sensors. Approaching the edge was a figure wearing a velvet hooded cape that covered the front of their body. Pushing the front away revealed they had a Swordriver with an orange bottom, the Animal and Story Slots being taken up by an orange wing-like attachment. Resting in it was an orange hilt with an orange emblem that held black detailing, a black blade sheathed within the driver.
[HAKEN BLADRIVER]
Reaching inside the cloak they drew out a black covered Wonder Rider Book with an orange inside. It was a God Beast book with a fiery bird glaring on the cover, its name…
[ETERNAL PHOENIX!]
The book's cover was soon opened, the incantation being read out.
[The legend of the phoenix passed down for ages has now become a reality]
Slotting the Wonder Ride Book into the only available slot, a larger version of Eteranl Phoenix dropped down behind the hooded individual. Wasting no time, they drew out the sword, a fiery orange glow surrounding it as the book opened on the Driver and behind them. All became silent as if there were no sound occurring, the Eternal Phoenix escaping the giant books pages as it circled around.
[BATTOU!]
Reeling the sword backwards they swung forward, unleashing the energy outwards before it rushed back towards them. The Eternal Phoenix rushing toward the users left side before merging with them, forming the armor as the energy slammed into the users face to fully form the helmet.
A black and orange themed Phoenix Rider was in the hooded person's place, having a feathery coattail hanging from the left hip while their right shoulder held a phoenix's head as its main ornament.
[ETERNAL PHOENIX!]
[Kyomu! The jet-black sword returns to nothing]
[MUMEIKEN KYOMU!]
Staring over the city now was none other than Kamen Rider Falchion, the warrior of the void. Gripping Kyomu in their hand they became a being of fire that launched upwards into the night sky.
To Be Continued…
Author's Note: Bit of a slow chapter this time, and a nice way to bring in the New Year honestly. Touma and Hibiki both stepping up to the plate to grow stronger and improve themselves. And then you've got the introduction of the second to last Rider I'm introducing in S1. Can't say you were expecting Falchion to show up already were you? Either way, thanks for reading and I'll see you all next time.