Sympho-Saber: Song of Swords
S1:SP – Acquire the Book of Ruin!
Everything had been relatively calm since the Kadingir incident now known as the Lunar Attack, but all was not quiet. New issues had popped up in the month between the Wielders release from lockdown and now. As such it was currently Daishinji's duty to explain the current situation.
He was in a darkened room, a monitor behind him as he held a pointer in one hand and a button in the other as he faced several seats filled with people. Well, facing was being generous as he was currently giving all his attention to the blank screen. He pressed a button to reveal pictures of an archaeological site, going across various photos before stopping at one.
The picture revealed a worker holding up a fairly old black book that looked to have a felt cover. The pages were browned and dirtied. But it held a fancy silver band with a circular amulet that held a red jewel on the front cover.
"Due to current regulations and for the sake of our operations continuing… we've had to make compromises," Daishinji said in a lightly strained voice as he pointed towards the book, "One such of these being this dangerous book. This book, the Book of Ruin, is said to be one of the few stronger links to the Almighty Book as it did not revert to a Wonder Ride Book."
The slide was changed to show a map of the southern region of Japan, Daishinji using the pointer to gesture to a specific area.
"Despite our country discovering it, due to its nature as a fragmented Relic and our current agreements… we need to transport it alongside Solomon's Cane at a later date," Daishinji explained in a tense voice, "If you were asking me I'd say we shouldn't transport both dangerous Relics, but well…" He cleared his throat, "Regardless we need all hands on deck for this, as it is a fragment of the Almighty Book, the Megid are sure to target the site. As a result, all available Wielders and Riders will be deployed for this mission."
"Okay but…" Hibiki's voice could be heard as one of the people seated in the dark room raised their hand, "What's the Book of Ruin?"
"You're really asking that after he just explained it dummy?!" Another voice called out, likely Chris'.
"Now, now, calm down," A voice said as one person stood up, the voice being Touma's, "We know why it's important… but why does it have that name?"
"That reasoning is simple," Daishinji answered as he switched the slides again, showing old text and old paintings that were found near the Book of Ruin, one such painting showing a hole of destruction towering over the world and tearing it apart, "It is said that the Seiken can resonate even more so with this book than the other Wonder Ride Books. Utilize that power wrongly and you risk destroying the entire world with said Seiken's power… thus, the Book of Ruin."
Everyone grew silent at these words, Daishinji's grim expression telling them what exactly would happen if this book got into the wrong hands.
A helicopter from Section 2 was currently making its way towards a densely packed forest, its destination being the excavation site. Inside the helicopter aside from the pilot, was the team designated to handle the pickup of the Book of Ruin. Three Wielders and three Riders, Hibki, Tsubasa, Chris, Touma, Rintaro and Genjuro all sat and waited to arrive at our destination.
"It honestly feels weird," Tsubasa admitted before looking over to her uncle, "With you joining us in the field, Commander."
"Well thankfully Sophia is back at base to allow this to happen," Genjuro said as he glanced at Gekido which was resting next to him, "Because of our merger we have certain advantages to there being two Commanders."
"This is so cool," Hibiki admitted with starry eyes as she pumped her fists, "I get to fight alongside Master!"
"H-Hibiki…" Rintaro nervously chuckled, "So far we won't have to fight. We're just retrieving the Book of Ruin and taking it back to base to secure it."
"Yeah, cool your jets," Chris said as she leaned back and put her hands behind her head, "If we're lucky we won't have to deal with anything entirely stupid."
Touma meanwhile was quietly writing notes via a pen and small notebook, giving a small hum on occasion.
"What are you writing down?" Tsubasa asked.
"Hmm, oh," Touma looked up, "It's just the whole idea of this Book of Ruin and it being recently discovered has got my creative juices flowing."
"You want to be a novelist correct?" Rintaro asked, to which Touma gave a nod.
"Yep," Hibiki chimed in, "He's been getting a lot of good ideas lately."
"Well you know when your life basically turns into a large grand adventure, you sort of get inspired," Touma explained before giving a bit of a chuckle, "I'm just glad I'm not too restricted in terms of my ideas given well…"
"It's not like you're writing an autobiography," Genjuro said as he crossed his arms, "Plus having read your drafts alongside Sophia we've determined that you've taken enough creative liberties to not jeopardize our secrecy."
"Well that's a relief," Hibiki replied.
It wasn't long before Genjuro's communicator began to beep rapidly, the Commander taking it out and answering, "This is Genjuro, what's the matter?"
"We're picking up something on the radar where you all are at," Sophia spoke up.
"We're getting a high concentration of unknown signals in the area you all are heading to," Sakuya came through, "The signals however fade in and out, they're pretty fuzzy."
"The worst likely scenario given the familiarity of the signals is Megid," Aoi added.
"Try and get the Book of Ruin and get out if you are able to," Sophia ordered, "But please prepare yourselves for the worst case scenario."
"Of course, Genjuro out," Genjuro hung up before pocketing his communicator, "I take it you all heard that?"
"Loud and clear," Tsubasa replied as the others gave a nod.
"Good, let's run over our equipment situation then," Genjuro suggested, "Our three Wielders are pretty much armed with the Relics they need."
"I'm allowed access to all of my books up to my Wonder Combo," Rintaro said as he held out his three water elemental Wonder Ride Books.
"I'm allowed access to all of my books as well," Touma took out his fire elemental Wonder Ride Books, "Alongside extra books I've already used. But I'm only allowed to use my Wonder Combo if necessary. That leaves you Commander."
"Right," Genjuro took out Genbu Shinwa but also Jackun-To-Domamenoki, "With myself active as Buster, I'm now the current owner of the extra book paired with Gekido."
"It's a bit of a shame," Touma admitted as he slumped, "I was kind of getting used to Jackun…"
Genjuro couldn't help but laugh, "Well if we have the chance I can always lend you it."
"Commander Kazanari," The pilot suddenly called out.
"Yes, what's the situation?" Genjuro asked.
"You're going to want to see this," The helicopter pilot spoke up, his tone of voice more grim.
Genjuro immediately bolted from where he was, going over to the front before his eyes widened at the sight he was seeing.
The archaeological site itself was actually in a fairly open quarry area, the site itself being an old temple that was dug into a small nearby mountain. Of course the issue came with what was also there, Shimi Megid were currently flooding the quarry area, a few spots indicating that unique Megid alongside Calibur were also in the large army. As if that wasn't bad enough, some of the Shimi Megid were glowing a bright purple, all of them floating alongside the army.
"Get us down there now!" Genjuro called out.
"S-Sir…?" The pilot stammered out.
"You don't need to stay there, but I need you to at least get us between that army and their target," Genjuro answered as he gripped the pilot's seat tightly.
"Yes sir," The pilot gave a gulp before flying the helicopter towards the side in order to avoid detection before diving down towards the open space between the archaeological site and the incoming army.
Calibur was currently walking forward, leading the army of Shimi. Among the army were one of each of the Piranha, Ari, and Kirigirisu Megid's. There were several workers and guards all standing near the entrance of the temple, all of them slowly backing up but being unwilling to back down despite the size of the Megid army.
"You will hand over the Book of Ruin," Calibur's voice echoed as he walked forward, "Or I will take it by force."
As if reacting to his declaration, the helicopter containing the Wielders and Riders soon dived down beside before getting in their path. It wasn't long before both side doors opened up as all six combatants hopped out.
"Leave this to us, hide inside where it's safe," Genjuro called out to the workers and guards as he rested Gekido on his shoulder, "We'll keep them from coming any further."
Heeding the Commander of Section 2's words, the workers and guards gave a nod before heading inside the discovered temple. Genjuro then turned to meet with his group.
Hibiki, Tsubasa, Chris, Touma, Rintaro and Genjuro all walked side by side as they held their Pendants and Sacred Swords at the ready.
"Jeez, you're really going all out aren't you?!" Chris called out with a slight impressed whistle, "Well I guess you have to since you can't use the Noise as a means to an end anymore."
"Why do you need the Book of Ruin?" Hibiki questioned, "From what I heard I thought you just wanted to stop Finé."
"There are other things to worry about than her," Calibur answered, "And leaving the Book of Ruin out in the open like this or with you all only spells disaster. So even if I have to break through, I will be obtaining that book."
"Disaster…?" Tsubasa questioned, "The only disaster that will occur is if you activate it with your Seiken, we know that's why you really want it."
"Is that so?" Calibur asked before chuckling, "Then prepare for battle because I'm not leaving without that book!"
"If it is to protect the balance of this world, we shall!" Rintaro called out.
"Looks like we have no choice but to fight them off," Genjuro said as he cracked his knuckles.
"Everyone, let's make a promise!" Touma called out as he glanced from side to side, "We will protect the Book of Ruin and come out of this together in one piece!"
"Hell yeah we will," Chris agreed before looking over at Tsubasa, "No doing any stupid stunts today, alright?"
"Are you referring to me or yourself, Yukine?" Tsubasa asked with a knowing smirk, looking away from Chris just as she received a glare.
"Get ready," Genjuro called out as he readied his Wonder Ride Book, Touma and Rintaro doing the same.
Chris and Tsubasa meanwhile pulled out their Relic pendants, Hibiki placing a hand to her chest.
"~Balwisyall nescell Gungnir tron~"
"~Imyuteus Ame no Habakiri tron~"
"~Killter Ichaival tron~"
"Henshin!"
[REKKA BATTOU! BRAVE DRAGON~!]
[NAGARE BATTOU! LION SENKI!]
[ITTOU RYODAN! BUTTA GIRE! DOGO! DOGO! DOGOUKEN GEKIDO!]
Hibiki, Tsubasa, and Chris stood clad in their Symphogears, the trio standing beside Saber, Blades and Buster. The six gave battle cries as they charged directly for the Megid army before them.
"Go!" Calibur yelled as he pointed his sword forward.
The Shimi all gave moans and groans as they ran forward, all brandishing their blades as they went to meet their enemies in battle.
Saber was the first to charge in, his sword lighting on fire, slashing twice and cutting through two Shimi before leaping and bringing his sword down on the third. He quickly backed up to avoid two swipes from two more approaching Shimi before cutting through both of them. The Shimi that he had cut through gave groans before exploding into flames.
The Rider of flames rushed deeper into the crowd, slicing through more Shimi before leaping up into the air. He spun several times before slamming his sword down and releasing the built up fire into a wave that exploded outwards. The Shimi could all only yell out as they were struck by the flames, falling back and exploding.
Blades opted for a more graceful approach, making his way into his own section of the army and twirling his blade. It shined bright with blue energy as water gathered around it, quickly holding it behind his back to block a slash from behind. He then spun and slashed through his assailant, batting away a slash from another Shimi before giving a yell. He leapt up and slashed forward, unleashing the elemental energy in his blade into a crescent wave of water energy that sliced through all the Shimi in front of him.
"Take this, and this!" Chris called out as she leapt into the air, arming her crossbows and firing off homing bolts of energy towards the Shimi that were floating around. She then decided to show off a bit, landing on a Shimi's head before leaping off of it. She then began to leap from Shimi to Shimi, using their heads as springboards as she took aim and struck at the floating enemies to clear the air for her teammates.
{MEGA DETH PARTY}
"Suck on this!" Chris called out as her skirt opened up and extended, launching out dozens of missiles against the incoming horde of floating Shimi.
Joining in crowd control alongside Chris was also Buster. The Commander of Section 2 gave a yell as he stomped against the ground, cracks forming before a slab of earth erupted underneath a set of Shimi, launching them towards him. He then gave a yell as he slashed forward with Gekido, slicing through the Shimi in one go.
The Shimi seemed to silently declare Buster as a threat, more and more rushing towards him in order to try and overwhelm him. Buster blocked against several frontal slashes against him, Gekido being large enough to catch all of them at once. He swung his blade forward to force them back before kicking at one that tried to slip in.
[GEKIDO RANDOKUGEKI! DOGON!]
Gathering all the rubble around him in an instant, Buster spun around and swung Gekido outwards. The rocks had formed against his sword and enlarged it in an instant, allowing him to slice through the horde of Shimi surrounding him. He wasn't done however as he kept his blade enlarged before slamming it down to cause even more damage to the Megid army.
Hibiki gave a yell as she punched against a Shimi before spinning around and kicking out with her right leg, kicking two other Shimi away from her. She then ducked against several slashes by more approaching enemies, thinking quickly she spun and kicked out, sweeping the Shimi's legs from underneath them. It wasn't long before more Shimi began to try and close in to slash at her.
Hibiki however gave a grin as she quickly ran away, luring them to a nearby hill in the area. She quickly ran up the side of it before leaping off, reeling her fist back as she pulled back on her gauntlets piston, "ORA!" She yelled as she slammed her fist into the ground, the piston slamming down and unleashing a shockwave that blew all the Shimi near her away.
Tsubasa meanwhile like the swordsmen was in her element, parrying, dodging, and blocking. She clashed blades numerous times against the Shimi that struck at her. Falling forward and getting on her hands, she began to spin around and move forward as her ankle blades extending. Her attack had allowed her to easily slice through the Shimi.
{Reverse Rakshasa}
Tsubasa easily sliced through the Shimi, pushing against the ground and flipping back onto her feet.
She pushed against the ground and flipped back onto her feet, quickly slashing through a Shimi that attempted to swing down at her. She then tilted her body to avoid another slash from a Shimi before stabbing through it. Several Shimi charged towards her and clashed blades with her only to push back and force their weapons away before slicing through them. She then raised her weapon, blue daggers of energy raining down in front of her and skewering the rest of the Shimi.
{One Thousand Tears}
Saber meanwhile brandished his sword against two Shimi he was fighting, slicing through them and sending them sprawling to the floor before they exploded. He then turned to look, noticing that they were clearing through their enemies at a steady pace. He was ready to move forward when he saw something out of the corner of his eye and gave a light gasp.
Calibur had casually walked over to Saber during the battle, before stopping beside him.
"Now that we're here I can complete my secondary goal," The Dark Rider spoke up, "Hand over Brave Dragon and Kaenken Rekka."
"What?" Saber asked.
"You heard me," Calibur immediately swung Kurayami towards Saber, getting into a clash with the swordsman of flame.
Saber yelped as he braced his sword by holding it with both hands, managing to just barely hold back Calibur. But that didn't concern him, what did concern him was the fact that the Wonder Ride Books that both Saber and Calibur wielded began to pulsate together, red and purple electricity shooting out from them and clashing against each other.
"What's going on?" Saber asked.
"So you've finally grown strong enough," Calibur mused.
"Enough!" Saber yelled out as he pushed forward enough while kicking back, managing to break out of the clash with Calibur before staggering back, "What just happened?"
"Just as I thought," Calibur said after he regained his bearings, "Avalon is one step closer."
Saber could only stare at the Dark Rider, "Avalon?"
[BATTOU!]
Saber and Calibur's heads shot up as a fireball soon impacted against the ground between them. The two kept their blades up, Saber hopeful at the sound of the announcement while Calibur was wary.
[ETERNAL PHOENIX!]
Out of the flames, Kamen Rider Falchion emerged, brandishing Kyomu as they stayed between the dragon Riders of flame and darkness.
"Oh it's you," Saber breathed a sigh of relief as he began to walk over, "Talk about timing, looks like we'll be winning this fight after all."
"Are you sure about that?" Calibur asked.
"What?" Saber asked before suddenly stopping, Kyomu's blade being pointed directly at him, "What are you doing?"
Falchion said nothing before silently charging towards Saber with a slash, clashing blades with the swordsman of flame before grabbing their blade with their free hand, pushing forward to force Saber backwards.
"You don't get it do you?" Calibur asked, "Then let me tell you this warrior's title. They are Falchion, the swordsman of the void who wields the Mumeiken Kyomu."
"Void…?" Saber asked.
"The Book of Ruin reacts to the sword used to fully activate it," Calibur explained as before giving a yell as he slashed at Falchion who blocked his attack, "If Falchion's element is void then what do you think will happen if Kyomu interacts with it?"
Falchion said nothing as they clashed with Calibur before hopping backwards to get away from the clash, running their hand through the blade of the sword.
"Void then… the Book of Ruin would destroy the world by turning it to nothing?" Saber asked.
"Precisely," Calibur called out as he readied his blade, "Falchion didn't come here to help you. They came here to take the Book of Ruin. I'm trying to prevent the Book from falling into their hands. But I cannot allow you members of Section 2 to claim it either."
"Then I'll just stop both of you!" Saber called out as he quickly loaded in Storm Eagle before he initiated his Two Book Combo.
[REKKA BATTOU!]
[TATSUMAKI DRAGON EAGLE!]
Saber now assumed his form of Dragon Eagle, kicking off the ground and giving a yell as he flew towards Falchion and Calibur. Both Riders looked towards Saber before looking at each other and charged inward as well. It wasn't long before all three Riders clashed blades with each other, the each one trying to overpower the other two.
Meanwhile, the other members and Commander of Section 2 were busy slowly but surely whittling their way through the Megid forces. It was to the point that the Piranha, Ari, and Kirigirisu Megid were forced to get involved due to their dwindling numbers.
"Uh oh," Hibiki called out before quickly jumping and placing her hands on a Shimi, spreading her legs as she leapt over it, "Why is the orange Rider attacking Touma?!"
"This seems to answer our theories," Tsubasa quickly blocked a slash from two Shimi, forcing them back before slicing through them, "It appears as though our alliance with them against Finé was only temporary."
"Hibiki, Tsubasa!" Buster called out as he raised Gekido and braced with both hands, blocking a set of slashes from the Kirigirisu Megid, "Go and help Touma! The three of us will clean up here!"
"Are you sure Commander?" Tsubasa asked.
"Leave these small fries to us!" Chris yelled out as she kicked the Ari Megid in the head to send it stumbling before launching out a barrage of energy arrows to strike against the incoming Shimi.
"By Suiseiken Nagare, I vow that we will not fall!" Blades called out as he blocked a slash from the Piranha Megid before kicking it away. He then gathered water energy in his blade before slamming it against the ground, bursts of water shooting out and launching any incoming Shimi away.
"We'll be off then!" Hibiki called out as she turned and ran off, Tsubasa following after her.
"Now then," Buster drew out Jackun-To-Domamenoki, "Rintaro, let's go all out and finish this off!"
"Right," Blades called out as he leapt backwards and drew out Tenkuu no Pegasus and Peter Fantasista.
Enlarged copies of the Wonder Ride Books for Buster's Wonder Rider arm change and Blades' Wonder Combo dropped down from the sky. Several Shimi had attempted to attack them from behind only for them to get crushed and destroyed by the books.
[JACKUN-TO-DOMAMENOKI! ITTOU RYODAN! BUTTA GIRE! DOGO! DOGO! DOGOUKEN GEKIDO!]
[NAGARE BATTOU! AOKI YAJUU NO TATEGAMI GA SORA NI NABIKU! FANTASTIC LION~!]
Green energy vines had wrapped around Buster's right arm, ensnaring it before snapping off to reveal the Jackun bicep and forearm gauntlet armor. In addition to that, the vines from the armor snaked their way into and around Buster's shoulder plate to fully complete Buster's Genbu Jackun form.
Blades meanwhile was encircled by a crystalline Pegasus, the Lion Senki and a glowing fairy, all of them converging and forming the two extra sides to his armor, completing the Wonder Combo of Fantastic Lion.
"Well, look at you two and your fancy toys," Chris scoffed as she readied her crossbows with energy bolts, "Me, I'll stick with the classics for now."
"Let's get going!" Buster yelled out as he rushed away from Blades and Chris, slashing through several Shimi before aiming his left forearm forward, unleashing a storm of energy seeds out towards the Kirigirisu Megid to force it backwards.
"Too much," The Kirigirisu Megid yelped as it was struck by the energy seeds, trying to deflect a few by slicing forward only for sparks to fly as it staggered back, "Way too much!"
"Not enough!" Buster argued as he charged forward.
"Destroy her!" The Ari Megid yelled out as it spat acid towards Chris, trying to force her to dodge instead of stay in one spot and fire, "Don't let her overwhelm you!"
"Sorry to say but that won't be happening!" Chris yelled out as she leapt into the air, flipping to go higher and avoid any acid spit that was sent her way. As she did so she opened up the back of her skirt, unleashing her reflector crystals. The crystals rained down and floated all around the Ari and Shimi Megid. She then aimed downwards and began firing off her crossbows, the arrows bouncing between the reflectors and striking against the grouping of enemies. The Shimi groaned before exploding as the Ari Megid was forced to roll away.
"You'll get tired and lose eventually!" The Piranha Megid yelled as it clashed blades with Blades.
Blades gave a yell as he kicked the Megid away, turning and slashing through the Shimi with ease thanks to his enhanced sword. He then leapt backwards, flipping as he used Peter Fantasista to float through the air with ease. He kept his height and slashed forward, unleashing waves upon waves of water against the Piranha Megid and the Shimi.
"So long as my heart still beats, I will protect this world!" Blades yelled out.
Saber gave a yell as he slashed forward, his blade clashing briefly with Falchion's and Calibur's, the three running past each other. They all then turned, Calibur slashing at both Saber and Falchion to force them back. He then rushed for Saber to clash blades with.
"Just give up!" Calibur yelled out.
"I won't give up!" Saber called out.
Falchion raised their blade, slowly making their way forward before running and holding their blade overhead, swinging downwards to strike at Saber.
"That's right Kamiyama!" Tsubasa called out as she leapt into the battle, quickly holding her sword with both hands as she blocked Falchion's strike. She then spun and slashed forward, Falchion leaping away to avoid the slash, "So long as their evil threatens this world, we cannot yield. That is our duty as sentinels."
"Tsubasa," Saber gave a chuckle before giving a light gasp, "You made it."
"She won't be able to help you," Calibur growled out.
"Then how about me!" Hibiki gave a yell as she fell from up high, kicking out towards Calibur with her right leg.
Calibur gave a gasp and quickly withdrew his blade, rolling away as he avoided Hibiki's kick, the Gungnir girl smashing into the ground and creating a small crater.
"Hibiki," Saber chuckled as he fully stood, "Glad to see you could make it too."
"Tachibana, Kamiyama," Tsubasa glanced back at the two, "I shall keep the phoenix warrior busy, you two force Calibur to retreat."
"Got it," Saber gave a nod.
"You can count on us," Hibiki pumped her fist.
The three looked at each other and turned, bumping their fists against each other before splitting and rushing off towards their fights, Hibiki and Saber charging for Calibur while Tsubasa charged towards Falchion.
The Piranha Megid gave a yell as it charged forward with the Shimi, summoning its piranha familiars to help lead the charge. The grouping closed in on Blades who tapped his Lion Senki book.
[LION SENKI!]
Blades gave a yell as he ran forward, slashing through several Shimi before morphing into a mass of water that shot forward, tearing through the Shimi's ranks alongside the piranha familiars and launching upwards into the air. Reforming fully, Blades sheathed his sword before initiating his finisher.
[HISSATSU DOKUHA! PEGASUS! LION! PETER FAN! SANSATSU GEKI! W-W-W-WATER!]
Blades spread his arms out, unleashing streams of water from his body and sending them all out towards the Megid he was facing. Soon enough he had wrapped the water around the Piranha and Shimi Megid, trapping them in a giant bubble.
"Fantastic Blazer!" Blades yelled out as he kicked forward with his right leg, bright blue energy flowing into it. He gave a yell as he kicked through the giant water bubble, cutting it through and causing an explosion that destroyed the trapped Megid.
Buster gave a roar as he spun around and swung his left arm forward, the whip on his Jackun Arm extending and lashing out, striking several approaching Shimi and sending them flying back.
"Hurry, hurry, we must overwhelm him!" The Kirigirisu Megid shouted as it charged forward with the Shimi.
"Your way too early for that to happen," Buster remarked as he scanned Jackun-To-Domamenoki before holding Gekido upwards.
[JACKUN-TO-DOMAMENOKI! DOGON!]
The blade glowed a bright green as large beanstalk vines began to ensnare and grow larger and larger into a gigantic beanstalk blade, "Earth Bean Grand Judgement Cut!"
[KAISHIN NO GEKIDO RANDOKUGEKI! DOGON!]
Buster slammed the giant beanstalk blade down against the Earth, slamming it directly on top of the Kirigirisu Megid and crushing it. The various vines of the beanstalk blade soon began to unfurl and lash out, striking and smashing any remaining Shimi that had dared to get near it.
"Take this, and this!" Chris called out as she used her tri-tipped double chainguns to completely tear through the Shimi that were charging her way, "Come on, is that all you've got?!"
The Ari Megid gave a laugh as it used the Shimi to move through from the side, "Gotcha!"
"Huh?" Chris turned and took aim only for acid to strike at the barrels of her chainguns, melting them and making them unable to shoot anymore bullets, "Ugh, seriously?"
"I've taken out your strongest weapons!" The Ari Megid cheered as it charged forward with the remaining Shimi, "Now you're ours!"
"Like hell I am!" Chris yelled out as she began spinning the barrels of her guns as if she was about to shoot at the Megid. But she didn't, instead she just allowed them to spin as she channeled the ammo in her guns into the weapons themselves. She then gave a grin before rushing towards the incoming Megid.
{FIERCE MAIDEN}
Chris gave a yell as she kicked off the ground, crossing her arms and launching forward. She then swung her arms outwards, using her chainguns as makeshift drills to completely tear through the Megid.
"Impossible…" the Ari Megid gasped out before falling over and exploding alongside the rest of the Shimi.
"What excellent quick thinking, Chris!" Blades called out as he hurried over with Buster.
"It's not over yet," Buster said before looking towards the sky.
While the Megid on the ground had fully been defeated there was still a small batch of floating Shimi left, the grouping flying towards the three fighters.
"They just don't know when to give up huh?" Chris asked as she shifted her weapons back to their crossbow forms, "You two get what we came here for, leave them to me!"
"Don't do anything reckless," Buster warned before rushing for the temple.
"Good luck," Blades said before following after Buster.
Chris could only scoff as she readied her crossbows, taking aim before giving a grin, "Luck? I don't need luck!"
While Tsubasa clashed blades with Falchion in an attempt to overwhelm them, Hibiki and Saber were fighting in tandem against Calibur.
"ORA, ORA!" Hibiki shouted as she punched at Calibur several times, while she was fast and powerful, Calibur was skilled in using deflections to keep the full force of her punches from overwhelming him in their brief clashes.
"You're quite skilled," Calibur admitted as he hopped back before raising his sword with both hands and bringing it down on Hibiki.
Hibiki gritted her teeth as she crossed her arms, blocking with her gauntlets as she held the blade back, "Why?"
"What?" Calibur asked.
"Why are you still hurting people?" Hibiki asked, "You used to be friends with the others right? Finé's gone for now, why do you have to keep working with the Megid?"
"Excellent questions," Calibur admitted before giving a gasp as Hibiki managed to push her arms up and force his sword back. He quickly leapt away to avoid and incoming slash by Saber who had ran towards them, "I guess you could say people are natural backstabbers."
"You're wrong!" Saber called out as he gathered fire in his blade before launching several fire slashes towards Calibur, "People helping each other to move forward in life is what friends are!"
"Friends are unnecessary!" Calibur yelled out as he gathered dark energy in his blade, using it to easily cut through the fire slashes. He then gave a yell and slashed downwards, unleashing a wave of dark energy towards both his opponents.
Hibiki and Saber both kicked off to the side, rolling away from the dark slash that then impacted between the two.
"Then what are you trying to achieve!?" Saber asked.
"I told you already," Calibur growled out, "The truth."
"How is the truth so important that you'd betray your own friends?!" Hibiki questioned.
"The truth lies beyond what you can see," Calibur answered, "I know more than just what Finé planned with Kadingir. She is but the first obstacle to eliminate. So I've decided that I will obtain absolute power and reach the final truth!"
"If obtaining absolute power means getting your hands on the Book of Ruin then we won't let you!" Saber yelled out as stood up, "Hibiki!"
Hibiki looked towards Saber before giving a nod and raising her fists, "Right, I was hoping that…"
"We could reach him?" Saber asked before sighing, "It sounds like he doesn't want to be reached."
[HISSATSU READ! JAAKU DRAGON!]
Calibur had scanned his book on his weapon, raising it high as dark energy began to form around it before gathering within the blade itself.
[KURAYAMI HISSATSU GEKI! SHUUTOKU ISSEN!]
Calibur then gave a yell as he launched a massive crescent wave of dark energy towards Saber.
[BRAVE DRAGON!]
"Dragon Wonder," Saber gathered fire along his right arm before punching forward, unleashing the Brave Dragon and launching it out. The dragon gave a roar as it mouth lit up with fire, turning on its side and biting down onto the dark wave to snap it in half.
The counter had worked, but the two split halves of the dark wave began spiraling into dark discs. The discs flew towards Saber at high speeds before combining into a cross slash.
"Is that even fair?!" Saber yelped as he quickly braced with his sword.
"Hibiki Style: Fierce Tiger Soaring Paw!"
Hibiki had leapt up into the air, spinning around as energy gathered around her right leg. She gave a yell as she spun and kicked forward, unleashing a shockwave of orange energy that crashed against the cross slash before completely tearing through it.
"Thanks Hibiki," Saber sighed in relief as his friend landed beside him, "But um… what was that name?"
"What?" Hibiki asked, "You and the others shout your finishers so I thought I could too."
"Yeah, but Fierce Tiger Soaring Paw?" Saber asked.
Hibiki put her hands on her hips, "Oh yeah but what about Flame Dragon Kicking Break?"
"Erm…" Saber trailed in embarrassment, "Point taken."
"Enough of these games," Calibur called out as he began to walk towards the two only for his head to jolt. He turned towards the side to see explosions in the air as his remaining Shimi were torn apart by Chris' artillery. Calibur could only chuckle, "I suppose I lose today. But your battle isn't over yet."
"You're retreating?" Saber asked.
"Of course, there's no point in continuing this when I've lost the advantage," Calibur replied, knowing that the longer he stayed the more likely it would be that he'd lose even with his skill and power. He turned and opened up a dark corridor, "This is goodbye for now."
Saber and Hibiki could only watch as Calibur walked through the dark portal before it closed up completely. The two then heard the loud clanging of swords before they quickly turned to see Tsubasa's battle with Falchion.
Tsubasa gritted her teeth as she was forced back by a two handed swing from Falchion. She holstered her blade before falling forward. She landed on her hands before extending her ankles blades, kicking out towards Falchion.
{Reverse Rakshasa}
Falchion raised their blade and began to block against the spinning strikes that Tsubasa dealt out. That was until something unexpected happened, Falchion closed in, taking advantage of a small gap in Tsubasa's attack to grab her by the ankle, stopping her rotation entirely before lifting her up and tossing her away.
Tsubasa gave a gasp as she was flung back, spinning in mid-air before landing and skidding along the ground, "What?" She asked in near shock, "That Rider found an opening in my attack? That's impossible…"
Even if they had fought in each other's presence before, the fact that Falchion knew the timing of when to grab at her was suspicious. She decided to try something trickier, leaping up into the air and reaching towards her thigh before spreading her arms out, unleashing a rain of blue energy daggers upon Falchion.
{One Thousand Tears}
Falchion seemed to notice the odd movement as fiery orange wings extended from their back. They curled up and formed a shield in front of them before suddenly flapping and spreading out. A fiery wave was launched outwards, deflecting the energy daggers and completely incinerating an actual dagger that was among them.
Tsubasa gritted her teeth as she dropped to the ground, "Another counter…"
Falchion said nothing, though they seemed to have been able to guess that Tsubasa was going to attempt to use Shadow Weaving within the cover of her prior attack.
"Then I'll simply go for something different," Tsubasa drew out her sword again before stabbing it into the ground, she slid forward, sparks forming at the tip of the blade as it was dragged. She then stopped her movement forward before slashing upwards, the sparks igniting and forming a blue fireball that launched towards Falchion.
{Knight's Ignited Flash}
Falchion quickly braced against the fireball, the attack exploding against them as they were forced to leap backwards.
"Tsubasa!" Saber called out as he hurried over alongside Hibiki.
"Are you alright?" Hibiki asked.
"This Swordsman is persistent," Tsubasa admitted as she kept her hands on her blade, "I'm not sure who they are but they were able to counter two of my techniques."
"There's no reasoning with them, is there?" Hibiki asked as she looked towards Falchion.
"Unfortunately they don't seem to want to talk," Saber admitted.
"They've not spoken in our presence," Tsubasa replied, "The only way to truly understand them is to clash in battle."
"Then I'll take the lead for now," Hibiki said as she dug her feet into the ground and braced herself, "You two come up with a combination to force them to leave!"
"But they can revive," Saber pointed out, "How are we supposed to-"
"We'll figure something out," Tsubasa interrupted, "No matter their capabilities there has to be a limit."
"Then… I'm off!" Hibiki called out as she launched forward, using the boosters to propel her towards Falchion.
[TOWA NO FUSHICHO!]
[MUGEN ITTOTSU!]
Falchion had scanned their book before slashing forward, unleashing an orange wave of energy that curved upwards before transforming into a phoenix. The phoenix screeched out as it launched directly towards Hibiki.
"Nothing will get in my way," Hibiki called out as she kept her pace, "I'll keep going forward, as quickly as shortly, and as directly as possible!"
Hibiki stopped her charge forward, slamming her feet into the ground and activating her power jacks to launch her upwards. She then slammed her feet down just as the phoenix closed in, kicking off of it and sending it flying directly into the ground. An explosion occurred behind her as she launched herself away from it with her boosters, giving a yell as she reeled her fist back.
Falchion's head perked up at this and held their blade up, bracing the back of it with their free arm as they braced against Hibiki's punch. The resulting attack had caused a crater to form as Falchion managed to keep from being blown away by Hibiki's explosive power.
Hibiki gritted her teeth as she tried to push forward, hoping to make some sort of opening. That was until she gave a wince, a bright light below her catching her eye. She glanced down before noticing her scar was starting to glow, "Eh?"
Falchion tilted their head at this, but noticed that Hibiki had faltered slightly in her attack. They then grabbed Hibiki's fist to force it away only to pause. Orange pulsations of energy were suddenly released from their joining of hands.
It was raining hard, and yet it didn't seem like a dour mood.
"There's nothing to fear as long as we're together"
Hibiki gave a light gasp as she pulled away and stumbled back, holding her chest as she received brief flashes and words echoing in her mind, "What… was that?"
Falchion stumbled back as well despite not getting pushed, holding their head before shaking it fiercely. They then immediately slotted Kyomu into the Bladriver, withdrawing it in a wild fashion before spinning and slashing forward.
[HISSATSU MOKUDOKU! BATTOU! TOWA NO FUSHICHO MUSOU GEKI!]
Falchion's spinning swing had sent a slash of orange energy surrounded by crackling black electricity towards Hibiki who was still trying to get her bearings.
"Tachibana!"
[STORM EAGLE!]
{Blue Flash}
A fiery red tornado erupted in the slashes path, clashing against it before a slash of bright blue energy crashed into both, causing a large explosion that cancelled out all of the attacks.
"Hey, hey," Saber hurried over, "You alright?"
"What happened?" Tsubasa asked as she ran over not long after Saber.
"S-Sorry," Hibiki shook her head, "I'm not sure what happened, I was punching and then… I think Gungnir reacted to something and I felt…" she began to flex her fingers, wondering what those flashes were about.
[TOWA NO FUSHICHO!]
The three soon turned in surprise to see that Falchion was still raring to go immediately.
Falchion themselves didn't seem to want to give the three fighters any chance of rest. They had drawn out Eternal Phoenix and scanned it on Kyomu. They gripped the blade tightly before performing two forward slashes, unleashing an orange cross-slash forward with a phoenix forming right behind it.
[MUGEN ITTOTSU!]
"No you don't!" Saber yelled out as he rushed forward, gathering flames in his blade as he swung forward with both hands, clashing with the cross slash. He gave a yell as the finisher overwhelmed him, the explosive force had launched him upwards, sending him flying back a large distance. He gave a yell as he expected to hit the ground hard only to feel his back and arms braced.
Hibiki and Tsubasa had leapt up to catch Saber and brace him, the two helping him land as they dropped to the ground.
"Something's wrong with them," Hibiki spoke up, "I'm not sure why but they're acting a lot rougher than they were before."
"You're right," Tsubasa narrowed her eyes, "Whatever happened in your clash caused them to grow wilder in their attacks."
"I'm assuming this sort of situation counts as a necessary one," Saber admitted as he drew out Saiyuu Journey.
"Wait, are you really going to use it?" Hibiki asked.
"I have to," Saber gave a nod, "We need something to stop them before they grow further out of control."
"We'll back you up," Tsubasa gave a nod.
"Thank you," Saber said as he slotted Saiyuu Journey in, closing up Brave Dragon and Storm Eagle before setting his sword in. He took a few steps forward before giving a yell and drawing his sword.
The three fire elemental books dropped behind Saber, all opening up and releasing themselves. The Brave Dragon, fiery eagle and dark red cloud emerged from their books before spiraling around Saber to imbue him with their power.
[REKKA BATTOU! KATARITSUGA RESHI SHINJUU NO SONO NA WA! CRIMSON DRAGON!]
In a flash of red, he had assumed his full three book Wonder Combo form of Saber Crimson Dragon.
"I'm not sure why you're acting like this, but I can't allow you to go any further," Saber called out as he began to take a few steps forward. He then kicked off the ground, a burst of fire and wind erupting from the wings on his back as he launched himself towards Falchion.
Falchion slashed forward, clashing blades with Saber just as he landed. The two had tried to overtake each other in a simple clash but found that neither was able to do so. The two broke away from each other by taking a step back, stepping forward as they swung at each other several times. Sparks flew as they were equally matched in the slashes.
Saber couldn't help but notice that Falchion's swings were getting wilder, risking it he allowed himself to get cut in the gut, sparks flying from it. Despite this he had moved in close enough to slice against Falchion's left shoulder and bicep, sparks flying from the phoenix Riders suit.
Falchion took a few steps back before raising their sword to block several successive slashes from Saber. What they weren't expecting was their sword arm to get grabbed as Saber came in close.
[STORM EAGLE!]
Saber pushed Falchion away before slashing an unleashing a tornado of fire right underneath them. The phoenix Rider was then thrown upwards into the air. Saber then readied his finisher, holstering before drawing out Rekka from the Swordriver.
[HISSATSU DOKUHA! REKKA BATTOU!]
Falchion was sent spinning into the air but briefly formed bright orange wings that allowed them to right themselves into a floating position.
That didn't last long as Saber had shot after them at high speeds, his blade coated in flames as he stabbed past the phoenix swordsman. Saber began flying at high speeds and slashed past Falchion three more times, each hit knocking the phoenix themed Rider around.
[DRAGON! EAGLE! SAIYUU JA! SANSATSU GIRI! F-F-F-FIRE!]
"Explosion Crimson Slash!"
Giving one final yell Saber spun towards and slammed his sword against Falchion, the force from the impact sending Falchion hurtling towards the ground.
Falchion remained silent as the slammed into the ground, an explosion occurring as the Haken Bladriver with Eternal Phoenix and Mumeiken Kyomu clattered amongst the flames.
"Did we…?" Saber landed in a crouched state, breathing heavily as he realized his time with the Wonder Combo was nearly up.
[MUMEIKEN KYOMU!]
A single orange feather had landed on the Bladriver, the Seiken and Driver erupting into flames as Falchion reformed with ease.
"Jeez, they really are a Phoenix!" Hibiki yelped as she ran in front of Saber and raised her fists.
"So even a Wonder Combo isn't enough to put you down?" Tsubasa questioned as she ran over, blade raised high as she stood alongside Hibiki in front of Saber.
Falchion took a step forward, raising their blade before their grip suddenly faltered, Kyomu falling to the ground. Falchion quickly gripped their face with both hands before falling to their knees.
"I… what…?" Hibiki asked.
"The finisher did do something to them?" Tsubasa asked.
Saber could only stare intently as he slowly picked himself up, readying his blade just in case of the worst.
Falchion, hunched over, bracing themselves on their hands and knees before pounding the ground multiple times. They then grabbed Kyomu, shakily standing up in a hurry before turning. Orange phoenix wings formed on their back before they launched upwards into the sky, stopping and staring back briefly before flying off into the distance.
"Just what was that about?" Tsubasa asked.
"I don't think it matters much right now," Saber admitted as he looked around, noticing that the battle was over. He removed his Wonder Ride Books to cancel his transformation before giving a yelp, his legs buckling underneath him.
"Easy now," Hibiki quickly braced her friend, reverting to her civilian form alongside Tsubasa.
"You still require much training," Tsubasa said as she helped Hibiki brace Touma.
"I suppose I do," Touma admitted with a bit of a grin.
"I see someone decided to use their Wonder Combo despite not properly training with it fully yet," Rintaro spoke up as he walked over alongside Chris and Genjuro.
"Jeez, how reckless can you get?" Chris sighed.
"Hey now, it worked out didn't it?" Genjuro said before holding up a silver briefcase, "We were able to secure the Book of Ruin thanks to you three."
"Thanks to you all too," Touma added, "Calibur ran once he saw his army was being thinned out a little too well."
"Still, you all managed to deal with those two Riders and force them back," Genjuro replied.
"They were tough but we pulled through," Tsubasa gave a nod.
"I would hope so," Chris replied.
"Regardless, now we can head back to base," Genjuro said before looking up, the sound of a helicopter descending being heard as their ride from early began to approach them for a landing.
"He's grown strong enough to where I don't need to take back Kaenken Rekka or Brave Dragon for this," Calibur mused as he was currently making his way through a path in a forest, "And thanks to our clash I confirmed it, Brave Dragon really is the key."
"I must admit I'm curious."
Calibur soon turned, watching Storious walk out from behind one of the trees.
"I believe it's time you told me," Storious looked over towards his armored ally, "Aside from obvious reasons, why it is you have a fascination with that new Saber?"
Calibur fully turned around, "Avalon."
"Avalon you say…" Storious trailed as he gave a grin, "Such a peculiar place you're interested in."
"It is necessary to my future goals," Calibur explained before turning and walking back on the path he was on, "That is all."
"Then allow me to offer my assistance to you in that regard," Storious replied.
"Very well," Calibur gave a nod before stopping, "It's about time to start getting involved with our new partners."
"Ah yes," Storious said, "I'll let the others know… speaking of…"
"Yes," Calibur replied without hearing the full question, "He'll be getting involved as well."
"I must admit, given what you did… to think he's willing to follow you," Storious mused, "Or did you actually manage to hide it from him?"
"He realizes what is at stake, that is all," Calibur said before continuing to walk down the path and away from Storious. After a while he dismissed his transformation, the shade of the forest hiding most of his upper body. He wore a black suit and oddly enough had a black glove on only his right hand, which he was currently holding Kurayami with.
The man drew out a picture from his pocket, staring at it in a fond manner as it was one of Sophia and two men who were wearing similar coats to those in the Logos Sector. One had long curly hair and was holding Kurayami. The other was a man with who had short nearly buzz cut styled hair and was holding Rekka.
He pocketed the photo before walking off deeper into the forest.
In an unknown building with stone walls, a fireball suddenly formed at the end of the hallway. Emerging from it was Falchion who gave a groan before stumbling forward onto a knee. They held their chest before their transformation began to shimmer, it breaking apart just as Reika was walking past the hall.
"Huh?" Reika turned before her eyes widened, quickly walking over to her ally, "Is everything alright? You're back sooner than expected."
"I was unable to complete my task," The user of Falchion was still clad in the cloak that hid their identity. But now without the armor hiding their voice it could indeed be confirmed that Falchion was female. The cloaked woman stood up before shaking her head and going to walk past Reika.
"Hey, wait," Reika watched as her ally walked past her before she grabbed the woman by the hood. She then used that to force the woman to turn while also accidentally removing the hood, "Is everything alright?"
The wielder of Falchion had turned but only gave a somewhat blank stare from her dark red eyes as long fluffy red hair began to flow out now that it was no longer restricted by the hood. Though looking at her now explained why she wore the hood to begin with as most would recognize her instantly. The woman standing before Reika was none other than Kanade Amou, somehow still among the living.
"I asked if everything was alright," Reika said before she gave a concerned look, "Kanade…"
"Everything is fine," Kanade said.
"The way you're still here now is a bit unorthodox," Reika reminded, "If there are any issues you should let me or the Master know so we can try and figure something out."
"I'll be fine," Kanade said, "But speaking of the Master, I should report to him my failure to acquire the Book of Ruin."
"I can handle that," Reika insisted as she walked to stand beside Kanade, placing a hand on her allies shoulder, "Just get some rest and await your next mission."
"Understood," Kanade gave a nod.
"And remember if something's bothering you just let me know," Reika said before walking past Kanade and further down the hallway before turning a corner.
Kanade glanced at where Reika had gone before unbuttoning the cloak she had on, removing and throwing it over her shoulder to reveal a fairly casual outfit compared to her allies. She wore an orange tank top with black ripped jeans and brown boots. Over her tank top was a black high collar coat that reached down to the back of her shins.
She was ready to walk forward before giving a light grunt, clutching her head slightly as a bit of color returned to her dull, near blank eyes. Her thoughts began to drift back to the strange feeling when she and Hibiki had clashed. There was only one question on her mind now.
"…just what was that?"
Author's Note: I figured I'd hit this particular reveal right about now. Originally it was going to be in Falchion's last scene in the prior chapter but that all changed when I decided to do my own spin on Saber's theatrical special. As much fun as dragging the identity out would be, I feel like having us know its Kanade would be more interesting. It adds the new layer of "When will the others find out" when it comes to the main cast who have no idea of this reveal and allows me to do some things I couldn't if I just kept Falchion a secret from you all.
But yes, I decided that I would absolutely commit to Kanade dying. Her staying dead… well let's just say that Falchion inspired me to take this route instead of bringing in Bahato. After all with how fantastical and insane Saber can get, I figured I'd take advantage of that. Plus, Kanade becoming a literal phoenix was too good of an idea to pass up if I'm being honest.
It was fun adapting the Book of Ruin as a Special Chapter, even if only half the Riders showed up. Even then I got to show off Buster's Wonder Rider armament with Jackun, and that was fun alongside giving us some more time with the Wonder Combo's. Of course, I couldn't help but have some fun with the Symphogear Characters as well. If possible I'll try and use their XDU exclusive attacks that aren't tied to specific special Gears, like I did here. But now with this chapter done we just have some fun times with the OVA Chapter before we get to G. Thanks for reading and I'll see you next time.