Sympho-Saber: Song of Swords
S1:EP11 – A Fantastic Return to Form
Daishinji stared at the sight before him, it was a familiar sight but it was definitely different from usual. As the days progressed since Tsubasa waking up again, Touma had asked if she could join in since she was interested. While normally Daishinji would be against it, he was a bit amused at the idea of helping train Tsubasa so he allowed it. Needless to say he was surprised by how astute and disciplined Tsubasa was, allowing her to adapt well to the different styles. Rintaro was also trying harder than usual, though he knew the reason. He recalled the confrontation between him and Zooous when the Noise and Megid were targeting Chris. He figured that Rintaro was trying to get closer to bringing out his Wonder Combo and he couldn't blame him for that. He knew the time was fast approaching as well. To his genuine surprise, Touma also upped his performance as well.
Today was different however, Touma was unable to show up and Tsubasa had shown up a bit later since she was running a full medical check. After finding out that all the damage from her Swan Song had healed, he decided to go for slightly more intense drills and was pleasantly surprised to see both Tsubasa and Rintaro keep up. He did seem to notice that Tsubasa also picked up Touma's habit of humming the song he taught the fire wielder.
"That's enough for today," Daishinji spoke up, "I think we managed to pull a good session here. You're free to do what you'd like."
"I must admit I'm still surprised to see you training with us," Rintaro admitted as he hunched over a bit.
"I figured that I needed to train my body and gain a new perspective," Tsubasa explained between a few deep breaths, "This is the most I was able do since I'm not allowed on the front lines until the Commander clears my medical check."
"Well at least you wish to better yourself," Daishinji remarked before holding a hand in front of him when he saw Rintaro and Tsubasa looking at him, "You have discipline, unlike a certain Swordsman of Wind."
"I notice you mention them quite often, at least by title," Tsubasa noted, "Were they really that bad?"
"Ren was… he was very excitable but he had the skill and tenacity for it, so much so that he was able to attain the position," Rintaro admitted as he thought back a bit, "But he also wasn't the most mature."
"His excitable nature for battle cost him two years ago," Daishinji said in a grim tone, "It's why I'm so hard on the Swordsmen now."
"I see," Tsubasa gave a nod.
"I think I'll go get a drink," Rintaro admitted to lighten the mood slightly, "Tsubasa did you want to join me?"
"I'll be fine Shindo," Tsubasa answered, "There's something I'd like to do first."
"I'll leave you to it then," Daishinji said before heading back for his workshop. As he walked through the halls he felt something off, his ear twitched before he turned, "What are you doing?"
After he had left, so had Tsubasa, but the blue haired girl had been following him from a distance the entire time.
"I'd like an answer," Tsubasa said as she stared directly at the swordsmith, "How do you know the song that you taught Touma?"
"Of course it can't be that easy…" Daishinji turned away with a mutter as he hunched over for a few seconds before straightening up, "Follow me, I'll answer your questions."
"I appreciate it," Tsubasa said as she followed after Daishinji.
The two had eventually arrived at the workshop, Daishinji shutting the door as he sat down and gestured for Tsubasa to sit down as well. He clasped his hands as he looked at the floor and stared at it for a while.
All he had was one simple question, "How?"
"Excuse me?" Tsubasa asked.
"How do you know about the song?" Daishinji asked.
"Well… it happened quite a while back," Tsubasa trailed as she recalled her memories, "Before the incident… for a brief time Kanade and I did go to Lydian together. Though I wasn't exactly the person I am today."
While it wasn't for a long while, Tsubasa and Kanade after forming Zwei Wing, were asked to attend Lydian Academy to help gather those with a passion for music and singing. Tsubasa wasn't exactly sure how to take this, purely because she wasn't the most outgoing person. While Kanade clearly ate up the attention, Tsubasa wasn't a fan of it for a while.
After a few weeks she had resorted to hiding in various spots during her breaks to avoid all the attention on her. Though it wasn't long before the students grew more accustomed to Lydian and others started showing up at those spots.
She wasn't exactly sure what to do, at least until she was approached by one of the teachers. It was an older man having khaki pants, a white buttoned up shirt alongside a plaid jacket, with circular glasses shining briefly.
"Excuse me, Ms. Kazanari right?" The older man asked.
"U-Um, yes," Tsubasa managed to get out before recognizing the man, "Ah, Kamikawa, did you need something?"
"Please, please you don't need to be so formal," The man waved it off, "Just call me Toshikazu, please."
"I uh, I'll stick to Kamikawa," Tsubasa apologized with a bow.
"If that makes you comfortable," Toshikazu gave a soft smile, "Come with me."
It didn't take long before the two eventually found their way to one of the unused music rooms. Toshikazu set his bags down on a desk before sitting down, he then pulled out a book and began to read.
"Um… uh…" Tsubasa sat down, unsure of what to really do.
"You can relax," Toshikazu mentioned, "This room isn't being used for a while. I do still clean it up though just to make things comfortable."
"I see," Tsubasa said as she glanced towards the side, "So what did you want from me Kamikawa?"
"Oh I just wanted to help out," Toshikazu admitted as he looked over to his bag and rummaged in it, "I noticed that out of the two of you idols, you're the least active of the two. I've seen you hide away and I figured I could help you out."
"Help me out?" Tsubasa asked before giving a yelp as she suddenly caught a book that was thrown at her. The title caught her attention immediately as it seemed to be a samurai themed story, "Huh?"
"Reading helps me relax pretty well, I'm sure there are long periods of time where you don't have anything to do. It'll help make you less anxious," Toshikazu explained, "Especially in a quiet spot like this. If you're interested I can get you a key for this room. You can come back as often as you want, it'll be your secret little hideout."
…
As the days passed, while slow at first, it became a habit for Tsubasa to join Toshikazu in the music room he had offered her. The two didn't really interact much, just reading, and even then most interactions would be the teacher mentioning different books and genres for Tsubasa to invest in. It did help however as Tsubasa now had a new hobby and she was becoming more relaxed thanks to the isolation from all the hustle and bustle of Lydian.
"~One, it's every man for himself on this lonely world~ Two, but by walking together hand in hand~ Three, we will become strong~"
Toshikazu had sung while he was reading, softly though he had gotten so comfortable with Tsubasa's presence that he ended up singing more loudly than the other times.
"Excuse me, Kamikawa," Tsubasa spoke up as she looked away from the book she was reading, "What's with the song?"
"Oh, was I singing that loud?" Toshikazu asked before giving a laugh, "Though given your history I'm sure you know a thing or two about songs."
"I don't think I've ever heard it before," Tsubasa admitted.
"Ah, you see my wife actually used to be a music instructor," Toshikazu admitted with a fond but wistful look, "She was the one who actually wrote that song. She wanted to make an inspiring tune of sorts, and I think she succeeded."
"It's a very nice song," Tsubasa agreed with a nod, "Um… I was wondering… if it was alright with you… if you could teach me it..."
Toshikazu stared at Tsubasa for a while before giving a smile.
"Sure thing!"
"What also didn't help two years ago was hearing that he had ended up passing away during an accident when the Zwei Wing incident occurred…" Tsubasa was staring at the floor as she concluded her story, "It was thanks to him I ended up picking reading as a hobby."
"…" Daishinji remained silent as he stared downwards.
"I remember clearly that he told me his wife had come up with it," Tsubasa repeated as she looked up, "So I'd like to know why you… Daishinji?"
Daishinji was currently looking down, his hands pressed against his forehead as he sat deeper and deeper into his seat, "There's something you need to know…"
"What?" Tsubasa asked.
"Come over here," Daishinji stood up and avoided eye contact before going over to a work bench that had his current project, the Dogouken Gekido.
"I'm not sure I understand?" Tsubasa asked as she stared at the massive sword before her, "Is this another Seiken? Why exactly show this to me?"
"Yes, the Dogouken Gekido," Daishiniji pressed a hand against the book slot on the blade, "This blade was wielded by the Swordsman of Earth, Buster. His name… Toshikazu Kamikawa."
Tsubasa's eyes widened when she heard this, "E-Excuse me?"
"He was a great swordsman, a loving husband, and a wonderful teacher," Daishinji gave a saddened smile as he began to gently run his fingers along the Seiken.
"I…" Tsubasa wasn't sure what to say, "He… he was a swordsman? Wait then does that mean…?"
"Yes, you wouldn't know because at the time our groups were separate and we didn't interact really," Daishinji explained as he continued to stare at Gekido, "And even then I wouldn't expect you of all people to look up our prior members. For the sake of covering things up, and because we weren't part of normal security during the Zwei Wing incident, any deaths were pinned on unrelated accidents that happened around that time."
"H-He was there…" Tsubasa began to shake a bit as she held her arm to calm herself.
"Despite all the danger, all the chaos…" Daishinji continued as his voice shook, "He was most concerned about you, so he tried to reach the stage to make sure you were alright but… he couldn't. He was strong but he was old, it wasn't enough."
"All this time…" Tsubasa put a hand over her mouth as her eyes watered, "I thought that they just didn't care… that their carelessness was why Kanade…"
"I'm sorry," Daishinji gave a bow as he hung his head, "I tried to go after him but I was too careless, my blade was broken and I was no longer able to fight as hard as I could. Even after everything, the most I could do was save Rintaro."
Tsubasa could only stare at Gekido for the longest time before rubbing her eyes and clearing her throat. It took a long while for her to find the words she wanted to say.
"How was he…" She finally spoke up, "How was he as a swordsman?"
"Strong," Daishinji replied, "Kind."
"I see…" Tsubasa trailed as she went to touch Gekido, feeling a small bit of warmth from it that made her smile, "I appreciate you telling me."
"After what you told me, you had a right to know, so it's only fair," Daishinji said as he kept his gaze away from Tsubasa, "I don't expect you to forgive all of us but at least know that there was one person there that day that cared about your safety above all else."
Tsubasa glanced towards Daishinji, "Thank you."
"It's no problem," Daishinji replied.
"I should get going," Tsubasa said, figuring she could use the space for a bit but also give Daishinji some room as well.
"Jeez, it's been getting a lot more annoying with the rain," Touma muttered as he held up an umbrella.
"It's not much farther," Genjuro said as he had his own umbrella but had a bag in his hand.
"So why exactly are we doing this again?" Touma asked.
"Think of it as a way for her to trust us," Genjuro replied before he slowed to a stop, "Not to mention I figured she'd be more comfortable with you around."
"This seems to be going a bit out of our way though," Touma mentioned as he slowed to make sure he didn't pass the commander, "I mean, in regards to Section 2 anyway."
Genjuro could only give a melancholic chuckle, "I suppose it's also a way to make up for not being there for her."
"I see," Touma said before staring up, "This is the place?"
The two were currently staring at an old and abandoned apartment complex that had been completely stripped down and laid bare.
"Yes," Genjuro said before heading for the entrance.
On the top floor leaning against the wall in a blanket was Chris, she had been scavenging for food and supplies, and had ended up finishing up everything. She kept contemplating her current situation as she realized she couldn't keep up like this, especially with her stomach growling and reminding her of how she was only going to get hungrier at this rate. That was until she heard doors opening and footsteps following after. She quickly emerged from her blanket and got near the doorway, trying to peak and see who was nearby.
"It's me," Genjuro suddenly held a bag through the doorway before entering, "There's only one other person with me."
"Excuse me," Touma gave a nervous smile with a bow as he entered while clasping his hands.
Chris immediately got in a defensive stance, raising her fists.
"It's just the two of us," Genjuro said before looking at Touma, "Touma, as we discussed."
"Yes sir," Touma said before taking out his Swordriver with Rekka slotted in alongside Brave Dragon before sliding them into a corner, "We're not here to fight."
"You expect me to believe that?" Chris gave a glare though she did relax her stance slightly.
"Reminder that I did allow you into my shop and didn't do anything to you then," Touma pointed out before going to sit down.
"As for why I'm here and why I didn't just send Touma, as it stands I'm the only one left to take care of you," Genjuro explained as he sat down while keeping his grip on the bags.
"How did you even find me?" Chris asked.
"I used to work in the secret service, so I'm used to it," Genjuro admitted, he then held up the bag, "It's food," He said before noticing Chris' hesitance, he set the bag down before taking out an anpan and biting into it before holding it out, he swallowed, "It's not poisoned."
Despite her hesitance Chris knew she needed some form of food and quickly took it to bite into it.
Touma meanwhile could only watch as Chris demolished the anpan in near record time.
"The violinist Masanori Yukine and his wife, the singer Sonette M. Yukine, were helping refugees as members of an NGO when they were killed in a civil war eight years ago," Genjuro started as he worked on opening up a carton of milk and drinking from it briefly before holding it out, "Their only daughter went missing as well. Then the UN Army's Val Verde intervention changed the situation. That girl was saved from the claws of a local gang and was transported to Japan."
Chris gladly took the milk once she was done with the anpan, taking in a big gulp with a light glare, "You certainly did your homework. But I'm tired of dealing with schemers like you."
"Chris, he only wants to help," Touma replied.
"Shut it," Chris turned towards the bookstore owner with a glare, "Don't think just cause you're here I'll let my guard down."
"At the time, we had been looking for Attuned all over the world of professional music," Genjuro continued, "So I volunteered to take care of that lonely girl."
"How nice of you," Chris remarked, her voice dripping with sarcasm as she went to finish up the milk.
"But that girl vanished the moment she arrived in Japan," Genjuro added, "We panicked. The second branch tried to assist with the investigation, but most of the people who were involved died or even worse, went missing, and the case was closed."
"Just get to the point already," Chris was growing more frustrated, "What do you want from me?"
"I… we want to help you," Genjuro said as he looked over towards Touma, "At least for me, it's an adult's duty to finish what he starts."
"You shouldn't be living like this," Touma added, "Even if you don't want to take the Commander's offer at least stay at my store."
"An adult's duty, I shouldn't be living like this?" Chris' glare intensified as she threw the empty milk to the side, "What made you think I asked for any of your help?!" She soon rushed past Genjuro flipping and breaking through the window of the apartment.
Touma turned in shock at this, "C-Chris?!"
"Killter Ichaival tron~!"
Flipping towards the ground Chris activated her Symphogear, donning her armor before leaping up into the air and launching off into the distance. Genjuro and Touma could only stare off into the distance as Chris vanished from their line of sight.
Chris eventually landed on a rooftop, 'What am I doing?' she questioned before suddenly noticing the downpour of rain suddenly stopped on top of her. She looked up to see an umbrella before looking back to see Desast.
"Surprised you left your buddies," Desast remarked.
"They aren't my buddies," Chris gave a glare.
"Yet they've treated you better than anyone else has," Desast pointed out as he kept his arm raised high, "You have a chance at freedom, and you aren't going to take it?"
Chris raised an eyebrow, "What's with this freedom crap you keep talking about?"
"The ability to do whatever you want, whenever you want," Desast pointed out, "Human's are bound by laws yes, but even with those in place you'd have more freedom compared to your past accommodations."
"Let me ask you something then," Chris said as she took the umbrella from Desast, "Why are you so obsessed with freedom?"
"Like I'd tell you straight up," Desast remarked, "But let me ask something back, have you noticed the Megid that have shown up? What do they all have in common?"
"They're freaks?" Chris asked though she could tell despite his unmoving face, that Desast was giving her a blank look, "Fine, fine," she sighed before thinking a bit and looking back at Desast, soon noticing something, "Hey wait, they only had the one theme to them but you…"
"Have multiple, yes," Desast replied, "Why do you think that is?"
Chris narrowed her eyes and looked away, already getting the gist of it, "So that's what you mean…"
"The other Megid are content with living their minor roles their books tell. But me, I'm uncontrollable, so much so they need to hold onto my book," Desast replied, "I want more, and now you know why."
"Well I hope you find this freedom you're looking for one day," Chris said before leaping towards an empty street.
"Heh, how kind of you," Desast gave a chuckle before vanishing.
Rintaro was currently wandering through the halls of Section 2 when he heard a surprising yell. He quickly rushed over and turned the corner to soon see Ogawa on the floor with Sakuya trying to see if he was okay. Tsubasa could only stare at the sight before her while Ryoko was finishing a conversation with Hibiki and Miku before walking off. Wait… Miku?
"Eh?" Rintaro hurried over, "What happened?" He then shook his head, "More importantly Hibiki, why is your friend here?"
"Hello again Rintaro," Miku gave a bow.
"Oh right," Hibiki snapped her fingers, "Well the Commander figured since she's been involved to have her work alongside Section 2 as an ally."
"I figured I might be able to help out, even if it's small," Miku gave a nod, "So I was fully on board."
"I see, it will be a pleasure working with you then," Rintaro gave a smile and a bow.
"I should be thanking you though," Miku admitted, "You were working hard to help Hibiki and Touma, so I appreciate that."
"Oh it's nothing," Rintaro gave a light chuckle as he rubbed the back of his head before he realized something, "So what exactly is everyone doing here?"
"Well aside from being introduced to Kohinata, I was meeting up with Ogawa to try and find the Commander," Tsubasa replied.
"And um…" Rintaro looked over to Ogawa.
"I may have made some comments I feel are justified to Ms. Sakurai," Ogawa admitted with a wince before looking over at Sakuya, "I think I'm fine now, thank you."
"I'll get going then," Sakuya said, figuring his co-worker was in good hands with everyone else before taking back off to the control room.
"Are you sure you're alright?" Tsubasa asked.
"Probably," Ogawa admitted as he rubbed his face, "Perhaps we should sit though."
Rintaro went to help Ogawa over to one of the couches as Tsubasa, Hibiki and Miku all went to sit nearby. Rintaro also offered to get everyone some drinks and hurried over to the nearest vending machine, arms full of water, soda, even coffee as he managed to get it to everyone without shaking or spilling it.
"So why exactly are you two waiting for the Commander?" Rintaro asked after he set the drinks down.
"I wanted to report the results from my checkup to him," Tsubasa explained.
"It's getting rather late though," Ogawa admitted, "We need to get going soon."
"Are you back on assignment already?" Hibiki asked in surprise.
"I'm taking it little by little," Tsubasa admitted, "The training with Daishinji has also helped keep me mobile while being not too strenuous. As of now, I'm slowly getting used to it again."
"Then, I guess your schedule won't be too busy yet?" Hibiki asked.
"Um, no it shouldn't be that busy…" Tsubasa confirmed but was unsure of what Hibiki was leading towards.
"Let's go on a date!" Hibiki declared.
Tsubasa was surprised, "A date?"
Rintaro was currently drinking his water when he nearly choked at that. As someone who was used to the standard terms of use for words he was surprised to see Hibiki suggesting that, "T-That is quite sudden, isn't it?"
"What's a bit sudden?" Hibiki asked, "Hanging out can be just the fun Tsubasa needs, plus MIku will be there too. Ooh, do you want to come too Rintaro?"
"I uh, thank you but I must decline," Rintaro said as he composed himself, "There's still some training I need to work on."
"Aw, suit yourself then," Hibiki replied.
The Next Day
Rintaro was currently standing in front of Fantastic Bookstore Kamiyama and was currently without his Sword and Ride Books due to Daishinji taking them away.
"While I appreciate you trying to better yourself I cannot allow you to train any further without taking at least a full day break."
He gave a sigh before walking over, opening the door and heading in, "Coming in."
Thankfully for him, there were no kids at the moment, which meant he was able to relax and not be bombarded with question after question.
"Oh Rintaro," Touma smiled from his desk as he saw the water swordsman enter, "What brings you here today? Is it a mission?"
"No," Rintaro shook his head before sitting down, "Touma… how exactly do you… relax?"
Touma raised an eyebrow, "What brought this on?"
"Daishinji told me to take the day off," Rintaro spoke in a more dejected manner.
"This seems different though," Touma pointed out, "Usually you aren't this low energy."
"He restricted my access to my equipment so that I could fully take the day off," Rintaro admitted, "He also restricted me from reading the various books in his workshop since he figured that also as a form of training."
"Ah… well he is trying to look out for us, even if I dislike that last little bit," Touma admitted before clasping his hands together, "Well then, I can see why you'd come to me."
"So you have an idea of what to do to relax?" Rintaro asked.
"I just…" Touma started before looking at Rintaro, "How often do you leave the base? Is there anything you like to do?"
"Oh I usually stay there unless it's to inform you, otherwise I read or train," Rintaro explained, "Why do you ask?"
"No important reason," Touma said in a quick manner as he turned away, his face showing fear as this was worse than he realized. He quickly turned back to his friend with a smile, "Regardless in your case the best way to figure out what you want to do is to just go out and about and see if something catches your eye."
"You really think that'll work?" Rintaro asked.
"We won't know until we try," Touma grinned before making sure he had his equipment on him, "Let me close up and then we can take a stroll around town, maybe get a bite to eat too."
"Jeez I'm stuffed," Touma sighed in slight satisfaction as he rubbed his stomach, "Miku was right, that lady from Flower really does make the best Okonomiyaki around."
"It truly is a delicious experience," Rintaro agreed.
"Still I'm surprised you managed to eat two portions," Touma admitted, "Just one was big enough to stuff me."
"I suppose that just says how big of a stomach I have," Rintaro gave a light chuckle.
"Not as big as Hibiki's though," Touma pointed out, "That girl can swallow mountains of food and still not be full."
"I do recall hearing something about her eating three times as much as the usual portion," Rintaro said as he recalled his first time there, "So what now?"
"Well I was thinking of looking around the shopping district," Touma admitted as he led the way, soon enough hearing and seeing the hustle and bustle of people out and about, "Pretty busy today."
"Indeed," Rintaro nodded before his expression changed to one of shock when he spotted something, "Touma…"
"Huh?" Touma turned before noticing his friend's expression, "What's wrong?"
"I don't believe it…" Rintaro managed to get out before quickly making his way over.
"A-Ah Rintaro wait," Touma called out as he hurried after his friend.
"It's an Arai model rotating lottery machine!" Rintaro called out in amazement as he had quickly hurried up to the raffle desk, nearly spooking the old man that was running it with his excitement.
Touma couldn't help but chuckle as he walked over, "That's all?"
"I've always wanted to try one!" Rintaro admitted as he turned towards Touma and pumped his fists in excitement.
"Then let me indulge you," Touma said before placing the money on the counter, "Two tickets please."
"Yes sir," The old man said as he took the money and loaded up the lottery machine, "You've got two spins."
"Well?" Touma gestured towards the machine.
"I um…" Rintaro soon got a bit nervous, "I mean would you mind going first? You did pay after all."
"Sure, let me show you my luck," Touma grinned as he rotated the machine in one swift motion, a bronze ball dropping out. His face dropped when he realized what that meant.
"Ah sorry about that, seems your luck wasn't that good today," The old man mentioned before pulling out one of the minor prizes that would be given out, a bookmarker.
"I suppose I can make some use out of this," Touma admitted as he took it, "Your turn Rintaro."
Rintaro gave a nod but gulped as he shakily took hold of the handle, "Here I go!" he slowly but surely turned the crank of the lottery machine. With a full rotation the small ball dropped out, this one being a pearl blue in coloration. Rintaro pointed towards it when he saw it as a different color, wondering what that meant.
The old man was shocked but that shock turned to a smile as he grabbed the bell from the desk and rung it several times, "You win the grand prize!"
Touma's eyes widened, "Rintaro that's incredible! You won on your first try!"
Rintaro's hands shook in surprise when he was presented with the prize, it was a light blue instant camera, "This is… I heard this camera produces photos that develop themselves in an instant fashion! It is both revolutionary and wonderful. An 'instant camera'…"
"Well good on you," Touma couldn't help but smile even if he was surprised at Rintaro's excitable reaction.
After suggesting they get some drinks from somewhere, Touma was carrying both his and Rintaro as they walked through a less busy area of the city. He was currently watching Rintaro play around with the camera, the swordsman of water having taken it out of the box near immediately.
"I have received something most wonderful," Rintaro admitted with a smile, "I am deeply moved."
"You're really happy about that camera, huh?" Touma asked.
"Of course," Rintaro smiled, "Photos are a way of sharing precious memories, correct? I was thinking maybe when all of us are together, that we could take a photo. My dream has always been to take a family photo."
"Really now," Touma said, given the wording he figured what family meant so he decided to not ask about that, "You're definitely a fountain of knowledge… but you don't seem to have much practical experience. You act like you're seeing most things for the first time. Is Section 2 that strict on where you go usually?"
"Not exactly, I don't have any parents, so I was raised by the organization before it became a part of Section 2," Rintaro explained, "While I was free to go places while I wasn't busy training, I found comfort in simply reading, so all my knowledge comes from books. I admit I might be heavily sheltered as a result. I just haven't had an ample opportunity to experience many things for myself."
Touma gave an understanding nod, "Really?"
"My master, the previous Swordsman of Water, was a very kind person, he raised me as his own," Rintaro explained fondly as he thought back to his master and their training, "That's why even if we merged, I still consider Section 2 as my home. Sophia, Daishinji, and now Tsubasa, Hibiki, even you, I consider all of you my family."
Touma couldn't help but give a smile, "I see, well I'm glad to be a part of your family Rintaro."
"It's why I'd like to take a picture with the others when we have the chance," Rintaro admitted, "I think it would be nice."
"It would," Touma said before looking around, "So what do you want to do next?"
"Hmm…" Rintaro hummed before giving a nervous chuckle, "Well..."
"Oh, sounds like you have an idea," Touma gave a smirk.
"There is one place I do wish to go that I read about," Rintaro admitted.
Touma was admittedly a bit surprised at Rintaro's destination of Karaoke Town. The swordsman of water had wanted to do a bit singing since he was admittedly inspired by Tsubasa and Hibiki singing as they fought. To Touma's absolute surprise though just as they were entering they had run into not only Hibiki, but Miku and Tsubasa as well, the trio well into their 'date' as Hibiki had put it.
The two groups decided to join up in order to make things less of a hassle, everyone a bit surprised at the sudden coincidence of them meeting there. After ordering drinks, and figuring out who would go first, everyone was relaxing and chatting.
"So why show Rintaro around?" Miku asked.
"He was in a slump," Touma replied, "So I figured taking him around town to see if he spotted anything he might like would do."
"I must admit it's quite a surprise," Tsubasa mentioned as she scrolled through the various songs to see which would suit her best, "I wasn't expecting you two to be ones for karaoke."
"It was actually Rintaro's idea," Touma admitted.
"Y-Yes," Rintaro gave a nod, "It seemed like it could be fun."
Hibiki's mind was in other places however, "Amazing! This is just amazing!" She leaned over towards Miku, "We're going to sing karaoke with a real pop star!"
Tsubasa meanwhile managed to make her selection, grabbing a mic as the song began to start before giving a brief bow, "I always wanted to try singing something like this one day."
It was a noticeably different song from the ones she'd usually sing from her time as a solo artist alongside when she performed with Kanade. The title was Koi no Okehazama. It was a traditional sounding song and despite it being likely out of her usual comfort zone, Tsubasa sang with great beauty and grace, enough to make one think she had done this kind of song dozens of times over.
Hibiki and Miku were in awe at Tsubasa's performance, Touma clapping along to the beat in order to keep a rhythm going from him while Rintaro was surprised at what he was hearing.
"She's so cool!" Hibiki cheered.
"Incredible," Rintaro whispered, "I have never heard Enka styled songs in person before now, and she pulls it off masterfully."
When the song finished, everyone was clapping at the performance.
"Remarkable," Rintaro admitted.
"That was pretty good given it's seemingly out of your wheelhouse," Touma pointed out.
"Thank you," Tsubasa gave a small smile.
"So, Rintaro, you want to go next?" Touma asked.
"Are you sure you do not want to go next yourself?" Rintaro asked.
"No I'm fine," Touma waved it off quickly, "Come on, I'll help you pick out a song if you want."
"Oh, of course," Rintaro said as he went over to the tablet to make a selection, Touma helping Rintaro figure out what song he wanted to sing.
"Now I am admittedly curious," Tsubasa mused.
"What are you curious about?" Miku asked.
"I just didn't take Kamiyama for one that would be interested in singing," Tsubasa admitted.
"Oh that's simple," Touma spoke up quickly when he heard Tsubasa's inquiry, "Rintaro really wanted to come so I decided to join him."
"Oh, do you not plan on singing?" Rintaro asked.
"I don't think I'm that great…" Touma admitted with a nervous smile as he rubbed the back of his head.
"Oh come on Touma, you've got to at least once!" Hibiki called out.
"Nope, you can't make me sing!" Touma called out in a dramatic fashion as he pointed towards Hibiki.
"But you've got to!" Hibiki pointed in a dramatic fashion towards Touma.
"Do I really need to?!"
"You do!"
"I don't!"
"Yes!"
"No!"
"What am I witnessing?" Tsubasa blinked a few times.
"My friends," Miku sighed as she buried her face in her hands.
"Ah, I've got it!" Rintaro called out as he shot upwards, "I think I know what I'll sing!"
Tsubasa and Touma were currently out of breath, the two having stopped midway up some stone steps only to see Hibiki and Miku already at the top.
"How do you two have so much energy?" Tsubasa asked.
"I thought I was getting better… but clearly not as good as those two," Touma breathed heavily as he leaned on a railing.
"Even my training as a swordsman could not prepare me for this level of endurance," Rintaro called out as he was lower than everyone else, finally managing to catch up to Touma and Tsubasa, "Truly stairs are one of the most challenging foes around."
"Man you all really tire so easily," Hibiki admitted.
"It's at least unusual for Tsubasa," Miku pointed out, "And even with all the training the other two do, they probably aren't used to walking for extended periods of time."
"I am but a sentinel, watching over the field of battle," Tsubasa admitted as she finally made it the full way up, "Today, I felt like I saw a whole new world I'd never known."
"That's not true," Hibiki pointed out as she grabbed Tsubasa by the arm and dragged her along.
"H-Hey, Tachibana, what are you doing?!" Tsubasa asked before realizing she was led over to a railing that overlooked the city.
"Look that's the park where we met today!" Hibiki pointed out, "Everywhere we've been, and everywhere we haven't… that's the world you know! It's because you fought to protect this world that we can all live in it. So, don't say that you don't know it."
'I think there is something waiting for us beyond all the fighting. I fought believing in that, and now I know for sure.'
"I see. So this is the world Kanade saw," Tsubasa realized as she remembered the words of her dear departed friend, she couldn't help but give a small smile.
"Such very true words Hibiki," Rintaro said as he walked over, having finally made it up but he had taken it slow and fiddled with his camera, "Though I only know so much, it is because of my passion for this world and its many features that I strive to protect it as hard as I can."
"And now the rest of us are here to make sure you two don't fight alone anymore," Touma pointed out as he walked over, "We fight together."
"I suppose that is true," Tsubasa admitted before noticing the camera that Rintaro had, "Shindo, what is that?"
"Oh, it's an instant camera!" Rintaro smiled, "I won it from a rotary lottery machine earlier, my first try too!"
"Whoa that's pretty cool!" Hibiki called out in surprise.
"You seem pretty excited to have it," Miku noted.
Rintaro gave a nod, "I'm hoping to-"
"I've got it! Let's take a picture!" Hibiki interrupted suddenly, "The five of us."
"Eh, right now?" Touma asked before realizing something, "Wait, someone is probably going to have to stay out of the picture if we're going to do this."
"Perhaps we should wait then," Rintaro suggested, "I'd like it if we took one of all of-"
"Bonne Lecture."
Everyone was surprised to see someone else was around, and an oddly dressed man at that. He wore a shirt, vest, and pants that were all pink, having orange socks with bat patterning alongside pink shoes. He had a silver bow tie around his collar, while over his clothes was a red and green floral patterned jacket alongside white gloves. His most odd features was the fact he had a bird nest and a fake bird on it perched on his shoulder alongside having long teal green curly hair with a pink top hat, a brown mustache and circular glasses finishing it off.
Rintaro stared at the man a bit, something about him seemed off but familiar, and with no one else speaking up he decided to do so, "Um, who are you?"
"My name is Tassel," The man gave a genuine smile. "I couldn't help but overhear you need a picture taken of all of you?"
Tsubasa stayed partially on guard, unsure of what to feel at the moment. The man's sudden appearance and presence were slightly off but his offer to take the picture and his actions felt genuine.
"Uh, yes…" Touma gave a nod.
"Are we sure this is alright?" Tsubasa asked.
"I think we're fine," Hibiki admitted, clearly not put off like the others, "He looks nice."
"His fashion sense is interesting though," Touma muttered, wondering if Tassel was a performer.
After a while of making sure everyone was in frame together and smiling, Tassel clicked the button and took the picture. With a click and a hum, it wasn't long before the camera itself developed the photo instantly.
Rintaro excitedly hurried over as he was handed the picture and the camera, giving a smile when he saw the picture of the five of them.
"This is wonderful," Rintaro said before turning to show the others.
"Incredible, that fast?" Tsubasa asked.
"I suppose Rintaro got his wish after all," Touma smiled as he patted his friends back.
"Got his wish?" Miku asked.
"I wanted to take a picture with my family," Rintaro admitted with a hint of embarrassment, "I consider every one of my allies at Section 2 my family. While it's not everyone, I'll still cherish this photo."
"Aw Rintaro that's so sweet," Hibiki smiled.
"Thanks again Tass-" Touma turned but cut himself off when he couldn't find Tassel anymore, the man having vanished almost immediately.
"Where'd he go?" Hibiki asked.
"How strange," Tsubasa admitted.
1 Week Later
One week had passed since both outings had occurred. Tsubasa had been scheduled to perform at the same arena that she and Kanade had their last performance at two years ago. Despite the hard memories that came with that stadium, Tsubasa was determined to perform so that she could overcome the pain of her past.
Of course Hibiki was rushing to the stadium, having been given a ticket alongside Touma. While the concert hall held bad memories, everyone figured it would be best to confront it head on. Touma could only sigh inwardly as his friend dragged him along.
"Hibiki… Hibiki wait!" Touma yelped as he was dragged along.
"Touma we've got to hurry, we're going to be late!" Hibiki called out.
BEEP BEEP BEEP
The two slowed to a stop once they heard their communicators beeping suddenly, the two quickly taking them out to answer.
"This is Hibiki, reporting in."
"Touma here, I'm with HIbiki."
"We detected signs that the Noise are emerging," Genjuro called from the other line, "I'll get in touch with Tsubasa."
"Commander," Hibiki interrupted as she grew more serious, "You can just send three of us there instead of calling Tsubasa. I can handle it alongside Touma and Rintaro."
"Are you sure?" Genjuro asked.
"I want to let Tsubasa fight her own battle tonight," Hibiki answered firmly, "I want to let her sing that show to the end. Please!"
"Very well," Genjuro relented, "Can you handle it?"
"Of course," Hibiki and Touma answered together before hanging up.
The two rushed for a discreet area to transform, soon finding a rooftop as Touma had an idea he wanted to test out. Readying his Swordriver he slotted in both Brave Dragon and Storm Eagle while Hibiki began her chant.
"Henshin!"
"Balwisyall nescell Gungnir tron~"
[REKKA BATTOU! TATSUMAKI DRAGON EAGLE!]
Touma assumed his two book form of Dragon Eagle while Hibiki donned the Gungnir Symphogear. Saber lifted up into the air before holding his arms out. Hibiki leapt up and grabbed onto him as he flew towards the scene of the disturbance.
Rintaro gave a smile as he tried to catch his breath, having pushed himself further in his training after his break. The result had been him using the week to finish up his training to obtain his Wonder Combo. He took a deep breath before standing up, walking forward to exit the training room only to be met by Sophia and Daishinji at the door.
"You've got a mission," Daishinji replied.
"The Noise have appeared with Hibiki and Touma going to confront them," Sophia continued, "There are also traces of Ichaival at the scene."
"I see," Rintaro replied as he straightened up, "Then it's likely another attack on her."
"Due to Tsubasa's performance tonight, Hibiki requested just the three of you fighting," Sophia explained.
"Be careful," Daishinji warned, "One of the Megid Leaders might be there."
"Don't worry," Rintaro smiled as he held up his three books, "I'm ready."
"Then get going," Daishinji gave a soft smile.
"You can't win!"
"Shut up you freak!"
Chris was currently engaging Zooous in his human form. The Megid Leader was perched atop fortress type Noise. It looking like a gold castle that held cannons at the front that launched out flying Noise at high speeds. Of course alongside the fortress type it was flanked by hundreds of Noise alongside the Shimi Megid. While Chris was tearing through the grunts easily, the fortress Noise's artillery was proving too much for her to handle, especially with its sturdy exterior.
Chris gritted her teeth as she had been caught off guard, being sent to the ground as a result of being unable to fully avoid one barrage.
Several flying Noise had been launched at Chris again, but help came in the form of Hibiki dropping down and kicking through them.
"SEIYA!"
[STORM EAGLE!]
Several Shimi leapt forward only for a tornado to spawn between them and the Symphogear Wielders, the tornado spinning them around rapidly before launching them away. Saber soon landed next to Hibiki as he drew out his sword.
"So the swordsman of flames and Gungnir Wielder arrive!" Zooous laughed out as he clawed at his chest, assuming his transformed state, "Then let's have some fun!"
Hibiki said nothing as she quickly pulled back on her right gauntlet, gathering her power and gripping her fist tightly. In an instant she sped through a large grouping of Noise and Shimi, taking out all the Noise in an instant and dealing with most of the Shimi in that grouping, several flying backwards as they just barely survived.
"Not so fast!" Zooous yelled as the Fortress Noise launched more flying Noise at Hibiki.
The flying Noise didn't get far as they were immediately torn through by Chris' chainguns, the Ichaival user having recovered.
"Now we're even!" Chris called out as she leapt into the air.
Hibiki couldn't help but smile before seeing movement, quickly leaping back to avoid a Zooous smashing into the ground in front of her.
"So you can fight now, no big deal!" Zooous called out as he tried to grab at Hibiki only to be blocked by Saber's sword, "Hey!"
"Sorry but I'll be your opponent!" Saber called out as he spun away before coating his sword in flames and launching a wave of fire at Zooous.
Zooous tanked through the flames as he began to charge towards Saber, energy gathering in his claws as he lashed out.
Saber blocked the first strike before leaping back to avoid the next strike, "Tch, they're all really strong."
"Don't think I'm weak!" Zooous called out as he charged straight for Saber.
"Touma watch out!" Hibiki called out before yelping, blocking against a Noise before punching through it. She then swung both arms, blocking a pair of Shimi that tried to slash at her, she spun, and kicked both away.
"Hey bookworm, get out of my way!" Chris yelled out as she was in the air, with her skirt piece opening up.
{MEGA DETH PARTY}
Saber gave a yelp as he leapt to the side before using Storm Eagles speed to boost back further.
Zooous had stumbled as he had struck at thin air only for his eyes to widen when he saw the dozens of missiles launching towards him. He gave a yell as he was struck by the missiles, the explosive force causing a smokescreen.
"Take that," Chris smirked.
"Fat chance you worthless kid!" Zooous' voice echoed as the smoke screen was dispersed by his energy. He then summoned his twin swords before leaping towards Chris while she was still in the air, "I'll slaughter you!"
"Crap!" Chris hissed out as she braced with her chainguns, hoping they'd be enough to brace against the attack.
Hibiki and Saber's eyes widened, "CHRIS!"
[LION! MM-HM! SHUUTOKU ISSEN!]
Suddenly a pillar of water shot up right in front of Zooous, the force of the pillar causing him to smack face first into it. The water soon spread outwards, launching Zooous away. Zooous gave a yell as he was slammed into a nearby building.
"What the….?" Chris had relaxed her posture as she went to land, barely managing to keep on her feet as she originally wasn't bracing to land with ease.
The culprit was Blades who had just arrived in his base form, utilizing his swords learning ability to block Zooous' attack.
"Sorry to keep you all waiting," Blades apologized.
"Rintaro…!" Hibiki smiled.
"Good timing!" Saber called out.
"You know you stand no chance of beating me!" Zooous pointed out as he picked himself up and walked out the building.
Saber quickly readied his blade, "Rintaro shall we…"
"Please," Blades spoke calmly as he held up his hand, "Leave this to me."
"Rintaro…" Hibiki could tell there was something different about Rintaro and gave a nod, "Touma, the two of us and Chris will deal with the small fry!"
"Sounds good," Saber gave a nod, deciding to respect Blades' wishes.
Chris was surprised by this, "H-Hey why are you including me in this?!"
"Because you're being attacked remember?" Saber pointed out.
Blades meanwhile stared down Zooous before sheathing his sword and taking out both of his main elemental books.
[PETER FANTASISTA! TENKUU NO PEGASUS!]
[NAGARE BATTOU!]
Slotting both books in, Blades gave a yell as he drew out his sword, all three books appearing behind him as the three familiars of his books emerged to cycle around him. The books formed a complete and cohesive image just as the familiars all combined with Blades. His right and left sides shined as he gained the additional armoring of both Tenkuu no Pegasus and Peter Fantasista in addition to the existing armor of Lion Senki.
[AOKI YAJUU NO (AOKI YAJUU NO!) TATEGAMI GA (TATEGAMI GA!) SORA NI NABIKU! (SORA NA NABIKU!) FANTASTIC LION~!]
[NAGARE SANSATSU!]
[The azure sword turns its fangs and controls the galaxy!]
Blades began to flourish his blade as the transformation completed in a burst, white feathers raining down while a fairy encircled him before entering his blade. Raising his sword he readied himself, "I swear by Suiseiken Nagare that I won't let you lay a finger on anyone else!"
"Like you can keep that swear," Zooous yelled out as he rushed forward to slash with both weapons, he was surprised when Blades had parried both before stabbing him in the chest. Sparks flew from his body and he was forced to take a few steps back.
Blades readied himself as he saw his opponent charge in again, this time he used his hook to block one blade while dodging the other. He then stepped forward and slashed down, sparks flying further as he managed to stagger Zooous again.
Zooous gave a gasp as he held his chest, "H-How?!"
[LION SENKI!]
Blades said nothing as he flipped backwards, a plume of water appearing underneath him and catching him before he touched the ground. He then held his blade forward before the plume of water carried him forward.
Zooous yelled out and met Blades' charge, slashing forward with both blades.
Both combatants clashed against each other but in a surprising display. Blades' body had liquefied, the water launching straight through Zooous to heavily damage him. Blades soon reformed behind the Megid Leader, arms spread out while Zooous fell to his knees.
"What the hell kind of power is that?" Chris questioned, surprised to see Blades taking on Zooous so easily. She then looked to the side and began firing at incoming Noise and Shimi that tried to reach her.
"Whoa, so that's what a Wonder Combo can do?" Touma gave a light gasp when he saw the clash and its result. He then ducked underneath a Shimi that swung at him, slashing through it before spinning and sending a kick against an incoming Noise.
"Way to go Rintaro," Hibiki cheered before leaping out of the way of a Noise, quickly jumping back further to avoid another assault from the Fortress Noise, "Now it's my turn!" She pulled back her right gauntlet before slamming it into the ground. The punch tore a path through the ground, the surface underneath the Noise launching up and collapsing to force the Fortress Noise into a less stable area.
"You won't get away with this you brat!" Zooous yelled s slammed his swords against the ground, the weapons clattering away from him away from him as he threw a light tantrum.
"Come try then," Blades answered as he readied himself.
Zooous leapt towards Blades, but to his surprise the Rider had summoned a reflective barrier of water between the two. Zooous still rushed through, clashing against the barrier with his claws only for it to reflect his attack back at him, water splashing against him and forcing him back.
Zooous growled out as he hunched over, "You stupid swordsman, how did you get so good?!"
"I won't let you threaten anyone, especially my family," Blades said in a deathly serious voice.
"You'll fail then!" Zooous yelled as he gathered energy in his hands, slashing forward and sending several clawed strikes towards the Rider. To his surprise the Rider had coated Nagare in water before easily deflecting each and every strike.
"By my pride as a swordsman, I will safeguard this world's balance!" Blades declared as he sheathed his sword before drawing it out.
[HISSATSU DOKUHA! NAGARE BATTOU!]
[PEGASUS! LION! PETER FAN! SANSATSU GIRI! W-W-W-WATER!]
"Hydro Vortex!"
Zooous clicked his tongue, as much as he hated running he knew that taking a hit from this attack would cause even worse damage. So swallowing his pride he gave a loud whistle.
Blades began gathering water in his blade before leaping up into the air. He held his hand forward as a sudden burst of water underneath Zooous to trap the Megid Leader. To his surprise the remaining Shimi had gotten in the way, the grunts being flung upwards by the water burst.
"I'll see you around," Zooous called out as he began to step back.
"No you don't!" Blades called as he gave a yell, slashing through the Shimi to reach Zooous, but by the time he had slashed past, the Megid Leader had vanished. Rintaro quickly steadied himself as he landed, a large plume of water erupting behind him. Despite Zooous escaping, he couldn't help but give a sigh of relief, because that escape was still a retreat, "I did it…"
[HISSATSU DOKUHA! REKKA BATTOU!]
[DRAGON! EAGLE! NISATSU GIRI! F-F-FIRE!]
Saber gave a yell as he swung his sword forward, a red tornado with a thin flame launching out and capturing the remaining Noise in the area to round them all up, "Chris, now!"
"Don't give me orders!" Chris barked back as she leapt into the air, aiming her chainguns and firing at the gathered up Noise.
Hibiki meanwhile pulled her gauntlet back once more, but this time gritted her teeth as she pulled it back even further. Rushing forward she now had a clear path and leapt upwards, giving a yell as she punched against the downed Fortress Noise. The piston on her right gauntlet slid in and unleashed a powerful concussive force, completely blowing apart half of the Noise. The Fortress Noise soon began to fully turn grey and crumble up.
Chris gave a sigh as she saw this, dismissing her weapons before leaping off while no one was looking.
Hibiki couldn't help but give a proud smile as she landed before looking over to her ally, "Rintaro!"
Rintaro was breathing heavily as he dismissed his transformation. He had managed to take on a Megid Leader all by himself, and that was something he felt proud about. But it didn't take long for him to notice Hibiki quickly running up and giving him a hug.
"You did it Rintaro!" Hibiki gave a laugh, "Hooray!"
Rintaro couldn't help but laugh as he returned the hug, nearly falling over but just keeping his balance for long enough, "I… I sure did huh?"
"Not bad Rintaro," Saber said as he walked over and dismissed his transformation.
Rintaro gave a nod towards his ally as Hibiki finally pulled away.
"Huh?" Hibiki looked around, noticing that Chris was no longer in the area, "Where's Chris?"
"Seems she vanished again," Touma sighed.
"I see," Rintaro said before giving a smile, "Still this is good, Tsubasa's performance is likely to go well, and we took care of the Noise and Megid."
"We've all grown stronger," Touma agreed.
"Now if only I could get better at homework," Hibiki sighed.
Rintaro and Touma couldn't help but laugh at that though that caused Touma to snap his fingers.
"Wait, I think I have an idea," Touma admitted, "But I'll have to run it by the Commander first."
"Wait, an idea?" Hibiki asked.
Desast gave a light groan as he shifted onto his side, he was told that he could do as he pleased for a while but he wasn't allowed to pick fights. Deciding to take the short leash of freedom he decided to simply relax for a bit in the city. He was currently on a rooftop near the stadium that Tsubasa was performing at, hearing the muffled music coming from inside.
"So you can do something other than fight… maybe I should try singing," The hybrid Megid remarked before giving a laugh, "Yeah right, singing… that's funny."
Desast however perked up when he felt another presence nearby. He quickly sat up and looked into the distance, soon seeing Falchion staring at the stadium.
Falchion turned towards Desast, not saying a word before vanishing into the night.
"Well now…" Desast chuckled as he fully stood up, "Seems like the finale is about to get interesting."
To Be Continued…
Author's Note: This was a fun chapter to write, from Tsubasa finding out she unknowingly had a connection to the Swordsmen this entire time, to introducing Tassel into the story finally, and then of course getting to the debut of one of the major form changes in Saber via Blades' Wonder Combo.
Tassel was someone who I debated on how to use for a while, and ended up choosing to not do the recap segments at the start. This is mostly because of Roze from Remnant where I have Woz narrating the opening segments. I didn't want too much a repeat in that regard.
Meanwhile I figured since this was primarily a Tsubasa and Rintaro focused chapter they'd get some highlights as well. Tsubasa meeting with Kamikawa and him being the reason she took up reading was something I wanted to do once more details of the Buster Manga came out. And then I figured I'd give Rintaro a bit of a spotlight, since the episode this chapter is based on is about Tsubasa getting back on track. So what better way to add Rintaro than by this finally being the chapter he unlocks Fantastic Lion in.
Of course we've still got another update at the end of the month as we approach the endgame of S1. So I'll be seeing you all next time.