Sympho-Saber: Song of Swords
G: EP01 – A New Song of Battle Begins
There was a young girl with long warm brown hair and lilac colored eyes, standing in a hellish room with debris and fire all over. It was a hellish situation, and yet there was another pink haired girl, older than her trying to brave the fires and destruction to reach her. Despite blood dripping from her eyes and mouth the brown haired girl was relieved to see the other girl was alright.
The apple floated in the sky…
The apple dropped to the ground…
The stars are born, and the songs are born
The Lulu Amelu smiled for eternity
The older girl could only yell out before an older woman tackled her to the ground, a piece of debris falling on the older woman and pinning the two down. The older girl could only scream, tears streaming out as she watched debris start to fall near the younger girl.
The stars kiss the songs to sleep
Where will they call home…?
Where will they call home…?
Unbeknownst to anyone in the area, a man wearing a velvet red robe with gold trimming and black cuffs was in the room. He approached the younger girl with a somewhat thick book slung under his arm, it having a large jewel on the cover. Just as the debris began to fall towards the younger girl the jewel on the man's book began to shine a bright red.
The apple dropped to the ground…
The apple floated in the sky…
This was the tune hummed by a young woman with pink hair as she gathered her thoughts. She was currently sitting in an empty stadium that was getting set up by various workers lifting equipment and testing various special effects.
"So this is where you are Ms. Candenzavna Eve," A young man with neatly combed dark brown hair walked over, he seemed to be 18 at most. He was currently wearing a black business suit and yellow framed glasses as he held a briefcase, "I'm surprised you're out here of all places."
"You really don't need to be so formal since it's just the two of us right now," The woman answered, "Maria will do."
"Fair enough, I'm just trying to keep up appearances," The young man replied as he pushed his glasses up.
"I just feel more comfortable out here instead of being stuffed in my dressing room all day," Maria finally answered, "Especially since we're not letting people in yet."
"True," The young man gave a nod, "So are you ready?"
Maria was ready to speak up when she heard her phone ring, answering it instead.
"We are ready. We can begin as soon as Sacrist S is here."
"No time to waste, huh?" Maria asked aloud, before standing up, "Okay, Mom. Let's set the stage for the end of the world."
The young man could only fix his suits collar briefly as he heard this, "I'll take that as you're ready then."
"Yes," Maria said before turning towards the young man and giving a playful smile, "Once we start you'll finally be able to get rid of that suit you don't seem to be fond of, Kento."
"Even if it is to keep up appearances, I can't help but feel too restricted in this," The young man, Kento, admitted as he shifted his collar again, "Still though, end of the world? You really like being dramatic, huh?"
"And here I thought you liked that side of me," Maria remarked.
"Well you've got me there," Kento gave a light chuckle.
"I suppose I should get ready," Maria said as she began to walk off, "And also scout out my rival."
"Of course, I'll take care of everything else," Kento gave a nod.
Earlier on in the day an operation was underway. Section 2 had been ordered to transport Solomon's Cane and the Book of Ruin alongside scientist John Wayne Vercingetorix, or Dr. Ver for short, to a specialty Japan and US joint base in order to study both. The three assigned to this mission were Hibiki, Chris and Daishinji who accompanied Aoi and the Doctor in order to make sure they had the protection they needed.
This of course was the right decision as Noise had swarmed their transport, Hibiki and Chris having to fight them off while Daishinji made sure that both Dr. Ver and Aoi were protected as they moved further into the train. Needless to say thanks to some quick thinking from Hibiki they were able to deal with the threat and make the delivery.
With a simple stamp by Aoi on some paperwork, the mission was over. Dr. Ver stood behind the lead soldier with the other officers, two holding the cases that secured Solomon's Cane and the Book of Ruin.
"This completes the transfer mission, thank you for your work," The lead soldier said as he held out his hand.
"Thank you, sir," Aoi said as she shook his hand.
Daishinji waited alongside Hibiki and Chris in the back, the man simply holding the case he was carrying with both hands while both Wielders exchanged a smile.
"Now I've seen it with my own eyes," Dr. Ver said as he walked forward, "You're not called the Heroes of the Lunar Attack for nothing."
"Really? We're heroes?" Hibiki asked and pointed towards herself before rubbing the back of her head, "We hardly get any praise, so please don't hold back! Keep those compliments comi-"
WHACK!
Chris resorted to a quick chop against her friends head, "Dummy! This is why you get no praise!"
"That hurt, Chris," Hibiki whined as she held her head.
"Does the praise of your peers mean nothing?" Daishinji asked.
"Ah, no, no, no," Hibiki gave a yelp as she began to panic, "I didn't mean anything by it Daishinji, it's just that well, everyone at Section 2 knows about it and stuff but everyone else and…"
"It's a shame that I was unable to witness the Kamen Rider's in action. Such legendary heroes reborn in this day and age, it's a miracle honestly. Still to see two of you risk your lives to defend this important research…" Dr. Ver explained with a smile, though his face grew more oddly excited as he rambled, "In this chaotic world, we need heroes, great heroes, carrying the hopes of all mankind!"
"Aw, you're making me blush!" Hibiki rubbed the back of her head.
Daishinji could only raise an eyebrow as he heard his ear twitch, something seemed off but he wasn't sure. Granted that could just be his distaste for Dr. Ver's opinion on heroes, to the point that he was kind of glad he didn't need to transform during the mission.
"I'll be sure to make good use of the cargo you protected for us," Dr. Ver finished.
"It's just Solomon's Cane and the Book of Ruin, but I hope it helps you out!" Hibiki said before giving a bow.
"Please do be careful with both," Daishinji warned.
"We expect great things," Chris said, crossing her arms and feeling a bit wary of handing over two important Relics.
With the drop off complete, the four members of Section 2 made their way back to the entrance of the base.
"Mission complete without a hitch," Chris said, "Not to mention…"
"We're still in time to make it to Tsubasa's show!" Hibiki called out in excitement before looking over at Daishinji, "Are you sure you didn't want to join us?"
"As much as I am a man of music, my work calls for me," Daishinji answered with a smile, "Someone's got to maintain our gear after all."
"Ah that's true," Hibiki realized before giving a pout, "It's a shame though because I was really hoping to see you in action."
"Perhaps next time," Daishinji replied, "I'd rather ease myself in if necessary."
"Well hey, at the very least we managed to get through this mission without needing all of us right?" Chris asked, "I consider that a success."
"Since you two girls worked hard, the Commander's said you can take the helicopter to Tokyo," Aoi mentioned as she lowered her communicator.
Hibiki's eyes lit up, "Seriously?!"
BOOM!
Suddenly from within the base an explosion occurred as several gigantic Noise emerged from the buildings alongside a plethora of smaller Noise.
"…Seriously?" Hibiki asked as her excited expression dropped entirely.
"Looks pretty serious to me," Chris called out as she ran back to the base.
"Just great," Daishinji muttered as he watched Hibik run off with Chris, he set the briefcase he had down. He retrieved a leather blue coat with a set of straps that was a holster. Removing the two and putting them on revealed Suzune was in the case alongside two Wonder Ride Books. He pocketed both books before holstering Suzune.
Inside the various soldiers were firing for their lives as they tried to hit the Noise but to no avail as their weapons were unable to affect them. As a result the soldiers that were unlucky had ended up being turned to carbon dust as soon as the Noise began their attack.
Meanwhile Hibiki and Chris arrived on the scene, the two shocked to see the amount of Noise in the area.
"Chris!" Hibiki looked over.
"I know, I know," Chris gave a nod, "Let's get to work."
"~Balwisyall nescell Gungnir tron~"
"~Killter Ichaival tron~"
The two Symphogear Wielders gave their chants before leaping forward, bright orbs surrounding them before they instantly changed into their armors of Gungnir and Ichaival respectively. The two quickly got to work, Chris taking aim with her crossbows at several Noise and shooting arrows at them to start clearing them all out. Hibiki meanwhile leapt in, performing a spinning kick and tearing through several Noise at once.
Watching the battle from the top of one of the destroyed buildings via the cover of smoke was Storious. He could only give a sly smile as he held up an Alter Ride Book, "You should provide us with what we need."
[MIENIKUI AHIRUNOKO!]
"Quack…"
Tomes began to fly out of the Alter Ride Book, but this time there were more than ever before, six Megid had ended up forming, all of them having the base body alongside a feathery chest plate and shoulders, each having a face with a golden beak, feathers sprouting out resembling a duck. All except for one plain one had a distinct feature, two had a single claw on their right and left respectively, the other two had a single wing on the right and left side of their back. The last one simply had a green headpiece that acted as large horn-like eyebrows holding gold feathers.
All six of the Ahiru Megid leapt downwards to join in on the action.
The right clawed Ahiru Megid gave a laugh as it slashed against a soldier's back, knocking the soldier into a Noise and turning him to carbon.
"Good sir, are you…" The right wing Ahiru Megid lifted up a soldier to help him up before smacking him away, "HURT?!"
"Let's go, let's go, let's go," The left clawed Ahiru Megid chuckled as it began picking up debris before tossing them all over, "Quack, quack."
"Hey, hey don't come this way, quack!" The left wing Ahiru Megid called out to fleeing soldiers before kicking them away, "Bye~ bye~!"
"Quack, quack, quack…" The lead Ahiru Megid gave a chuckle as it walked forward holding two blank books in its hands. It began to gather the carbon dust in the area, slowly but surely turning the books into blackened books, that was before it suddenly stumbled. The plain Ahiru Megid came into view suddenly as it staggered away, having been invisible.
"Watch out, sheesh…" The plain Ahiru Megid groaned out in a dopey voice, "Didn't you see me standing there, quack?!"
"You were invisible, you imbecile!" The lead Ahiru Megid called out before grabbing and forcing the plain Ahiru Megid away, "You have a job to do so don't get in our way, quack."
Chris continued to shoot at Noise only to suddenly give a growl, "The hell is with all the quacking?!"
"Ah, ducks!" Hibiki pointed.
"…Ducks?" Chris turned to see the team of Ahiru Megid only to narrow her eyes, "Megid."
"You cannot stop what has been started," The Lead Ahiru declared as it closed the books before putting them away. Both of the Claw Ahiru and Wing Ahiru joined him, the five getting ready before rushing towards the Symphogear Wielders.
Both of the Wing Ahiru leapt up into the air, gliding towards Chris to try and punch and kick at her. Chris however dodged out of the way, taking aim with her crossbows and firing at them, managing to strike them in their backs and send them falling.
Hibiki meanwhile charged for the Lead Ahiru. She avoided its swipes before grabbing onto its head when it tried to headbutt her. She then gave a yell as she kicked it away. It wasn't long before the Claw Ahiru's moved in to strike at her sides. Thinking quickly she held her arms up, using her gauntlets to block strikes from both Claw Ahiru's. She forced their claws back before kicking and punching the two away.
Daishinji had finally made it to the area, gripping the hilt of Suzune as he kept his distance. Despite his behavior around Ryoko he couldn't help but be impressed by the Symphogear system. This was mostly due to the fact that while Hibiki and Chris improved with practice, Gungnir and Ichaival reacted to that change, changing shape and design. This was also the case with Tsubasa and Ame no Habakiri. While the Riders had to manually activate their own upgrades, the Symphogears could evolve slowly but surely as more experience was gained.
But even with the experience the two Wielders weren't prepared for the Megid's underhanded tactics.
"You're back is defenseless!"
Hibiki yelped as she was suddenly struck in the back, "Huh?"
"Pay attention!" The Lead Ahiru called out as it quickly kicked her in the chest, sending her stumbling back.
"You're next!"
Chris gave a gasp as she was suddenly punched in the side. Turning, she aimed only to see nothing, "Huh? Invisible attacks…?"
"Take this, double quack kick!" Both Wing Ahiru glided towards Chris and kicked past her, managing to strike Chris and send her tumbling to the ground.
"You dirty…" Chris gritted her teeth as she took aim and fired arrows from her crossbow at the Wing Ahiru to force them away from each other. She then looked around as she watched all the Noise, including the giant ones slowly approaching them, "We're getting overwhelmed."
Daishinji's ear twitched, hearing something off with the situation as he just barely managed to catch the shimmers in the air. He quickly rushed forward to grab everyone's attention, "I take it you two could use some help?"
"Finally, there you are!" Chris called out in annoyance before raising her crossbows and blocking slashes from the Claw Ahiru's that tried to strike at her. She pushed them away before firing her arrows, sparks flying as the two staggered back.
"Ooh, ooh! He's finally jumping in!" Hibiki called out with joy before giving a yelp as she dodged a kick from the Lead Ahiru.
"Who the heck are you?! I'm not letting you get in our way!"
Daishinji quickly shifted his body to the side after his ear twitched, the Plain Ahiru giving a yelp as it became visible, stumbling and falling flat on its face.
"Wait, you could see me!?" The Plain Ahiru asked as it barely picked itself up.
"I didn't see you," Daishinji corrected before holding a finger up to his ear, "I simply have a keen sense of hearing."
"Oh…" The Plain Ahiru gave a nod of understanding.
"Time for my debut," Daishinji declared as he brought out his main Wonder Ride Book, opening the cover.
[HANSELNUTS TO GRETEL!]
[A story about the strange adventure of two young siblings who got lost in a forest…]
In one swift movement, Daishinji drew out Suzune, the blade pointing downwards as he then loaded in the Wonder Ride Book on the front slot. The standby sound began to play as he flipped the blade to where it pointed forward before gripping it with both hands, pressing down on the trigger.
The enlarged Wonder Ride Book of Hanselnuts to Gretel dropped behind him, it opening up as enlarged candy began to flood out. He withdrew his left hand from the sword, twirling the blade a few times with his right arm before reeling it back, "Henshin!"
[JUUKEN GEKIDAN! JUU DE GO! GO! INA! KEN DO IKUZO! ONJUUKEN SUZUNE!]
Thrusting forward he unleashed a bright blue sound wave that began to pull backwards. The sweets began to spiral around him as pink energy flared up, forming his Rider suit. His main bodysuit was black in the center with pink sides, having dual brown almost chocolate styled armoring with white lines to break up the colors. The horn on the helmet resembled an open Suzune as the sound wave launched back against his face. It had slipped past the high front collar and formed a black visor with pink sound details and a blue rimming. Before everyone, Daishinji now stood in his revitalized Rider form, Kamen Rider Slash.
[SUZUNE GAKUSHOU!]
[A sweet and charming bayonet cuts the beat with a strange rhythm!]
Slash chose to perform a few simple flourishes, looking to warm himself up before fully entering the battle.
"Daishinji transformed!" Hibiki called out with a cheer.
"He looks a bit… loud," Chris admitted as she saw how bright and different Slash was to the other Riders of their group.
"Here I come~" Left Wing Ahiru sung out before running forward.
"I'm finally back on the stage…" Slash said as he readied his blade before charging forward, "Let's go!"
Both Slash and the Left Wing Ahiru charged towards each other, the Megid punching forward only for Slash to slip past and cut through its chest. The Megid turned and tried to roundhouse kick Slash only for the swordsman to duck and counterattack, Suzune being swung several times against its chest with sparks flying.
"Didn't even land a hit…" The Left Wing Ahiru gasped out as it fell to a knee.
"How dare you!" Left Claw Ahiru yelled out as it charged forward.
Slash simply removed his Ride Book before pressing it against the indention on the bottom of his sword, "Snack Sound Chopper."
[HANSELNUTS TO GRETEL! YAY! SUZUNE ONDOKU GEKI! YAY!]
Suzune shined a bright pink as Slash allowed the Left Claw Ahiru to close in on him. With a single horizontal slash he struck against the Left Claw Ahiru, candy pouring out of the cut as stylized sound waves engulfed the Megid before it exploded.
"So cool," Hibiki pumped her fists.
"Jeez, his movements are incredible," Chris said, a bit impressed by Slash's minimal and precise movement.
"Let's go with this next," Slash brought out the familiar book of Bremen-No Rock Band, opening it up while also shifting his blade forward, the blade splitting open from the tip and tilting forward as Suzune entered its Gun Play mode before he slotted the book in.
[BREMEN-NO ROCK BAND!]
[JUSO!]
Slash pressed down on the trigger, the enlarged version of Bremen No Rock Band landing and opening up behind him. Soon enough the shoulder, bicep and forearm armaments of the Ride Book floated outwards as Slash held his left arm out. The armaments soon attached on a rapid pace to complete the transformation into Hansel Bremen form.
[JUUKEN GEKIDAN! KEN DE IKUZE! NO! NO! JUU DE GO! GO! BANG! BANG! ONJUUKEN SUZUNE!]
Suddenly sparks began erupting at Slash's sides, using his free hand he made a rocker hand gesture as he gave a yell, "Yay!"
"Forget the Wielders… we'll avenge our brother, quack," The Lead Ahiru declared as it gripped its fist tightly.
"Righty'o!" The Right Claw Ahiru called out.
"Prepare yourself, quack," The Right Wing Ahiru declared before rushing forward.
"Quack this, quack that, shut the hell up!" Slash called out in a more excitable and less reserved voice, "Time to get a taste of my ultimate sound at full blast!"
In an instant Slash had aimed forward and fired multiple times at the Right Wing Ahiru, sparks erupted from the Megid as it fell to the ground.
Slash gave a yell as he turned and began holding down the trigger of his weapon once more, "FIRE!"
The Right Claw Ahiri gasped out as sparks flew, being sent rolling onto the ground as it was hit heavily by the gunfire, "He got me!"
"Come on!" Slash yelled out as he leapt upwards and took aim before firing once more.
The Lead Ahiru gave a gasp as it fell to its knees, sparks erupting from its body as several direct hits landed against it, "Quack…"
"Yeah, yay, let's go!" Slash screamed as he began firing at any Noise that attempted to leap towards him, tearing through them with his energy bullets.
"Did he just suddenly become crazy?!" Chris questioned as she took a step back in surprise.
"M-Maybe he's just super hyped up to be back in action?" Hibiki remarked with a bit of an awkward chuckle. She was admittedly surprised to see the swordsmith act this way but figured there was a reason.
"Come and get a load of this sick beat!" Slash called out as he loaded Bremen up for a finisher. He held his gun up as multicolored strings of musical notes began to gather, "That's it! I'm feelin' it!"
[BREMEN-NO ROCK BAND! YAY! SUZUNE ONDOKU GEKI! YAY!]
Slash tapped his foot a bit before performing a spin, raising his gun up before pointing it towards Chris and Hibiki. The two Wielders gave yelps and raised their arms before a burst of musical energy was unleashed from the tip of Suzune, the colorful music notes entering their bodies as they suddenly felt stronger.
"Whoa!" Hibiki called out as she gripped her fists tightly.
"Just what the hell did you do?" Chris asked in surprise as she could feel the power flowing through her.
"Hibiki, Chris!" Slash yelled out as he pointed towards them, "Let's hear how extreme your sound can be and wrap this up quickly!"
"This is like a power boost!" Hibiki called out as she raised her fist.
"Heh, took the words right out of my mouth," Chris gave a grin as she shifted her crossbows into their double tri-barreled chaingun forms.
{BILLION MAIDEN}
"Take this!" Chris yelled out as she began using her guns to tear through the Noise that were around.
"ORA!" Hibiki gave a yell as she began launching herself into the Noise crowds, slowly but surely punching through them.
"We must retreat," The Lead Ahiru realized with a gasp as it watched the Noise Army crumble before Chris' superior firepower and Hibiki's insane strength.
"I'll cover us brother!" The Right Claw Ahiru declared as it raised its claw before charging towards Slash to deal with him.
"Thank you for your sacrifice," The Lead Ahiru said as it gestured for the other Ahiru Megid to follow it.
"Hibiki Style: Spears Violent Destruction!" Hibiki yelled out as she transformed her left gauntlet, it gaining a turbine in the center as it powered up a set of rocket boosters that now jutted out of the back, a red knuckle protector forming in front of her fist. She rocketed herself forward with her fist, tearing through multiple Noise by ramming into them fist first before spinning around and slamming her fist into the ground to send a large group of them flying.
"Did… did you just name your attack?" Chris asked after a pause, "You didn't do that before when we were on the train."
"Yeah, but we're fighting with a Rider right now," Hibiki said as she shifted her gauntlet back to normal, "They've got cool announcements and stuff so I want to try and keep up!"
"Seriously…? You don't need to go that far…" Chris deadpanned before perking up when seeing several large feathers flying towards her. She took aim and fired off her chainguns, tearing through the feathers and noticing it was one of the large Noise that had done it, "Time to tear these things up!"
Shifting her chainguns back to her crossbows she only kept one out as she braced her arm, extending the length and width of it as she brought out two crystal spikes as her ammo. Aiming upwards she shot them past the large Noise, the crystal spikes began to separate before splitting further and further. Soon enough a rain of crystal spikes began to rain down on the large Noise and the smaller Noise, completely tearing through and decimating the Noise army before her.
{GIGA ZEPPELIN}
The Right Claw Ahiru's plan to distract Slash had ended up being a self sacrificial one. No matter its speed or its attempt to dodge, Slash's gun had too much range on it to where it was unable to get close enough to strike.
"Guns and Music!" Slash called out as he began running towards the side, taking aim and loading in Bremen to his gun once more. He then began firing blue homing shots that curved and overwhelmed the Right Claw Ahiru as he strafed to the side. He then slid to a stop before dropping down and performing a hand stand with his left hand, lifting himself up and shooting at the Right Claw Ahiru even further.
[BREMEN-NO ROCK BAND! YAY! SUZUNE ONDOKU GEKI! YAY!]
The Megid could only gasp out as its body began to spark violently from the attacks, slowly but surely falling over.
"My sword echoes on a different level, baby!" Slash declared before using both hands to give rocker hand gestures while lifting his head up as he screamed. Behind him the Right Claw Ahiru could only groan out before exploding, "EXPLOSION!"
"He is way too into this…" Chris gave a deadpanned stare as one of the few remaining Noise tried to leap at her. She simply brought out her normal crossbow and fired off several shots to destroy it, "Ease himself in, huh?"
"But he's having so much fun," Hibiki said as she quickly lifted up her fist, slamming it into a Noise that attempted to sneak attack her.
"Now then with all the small fry out of the way," Chris began to scan around for the remaining Ahiru Megid only to realize something, "They fled?!"
Needless to say even with the Noise defeated and the Megid having fled, there were still some concerns that needed to be checked. While cleanup began, Section 2's worst fears were confirmed after checking on several key people and objects.
Genjuro was currently in the command center of the new Section 2 headquarters, wearing his usual casual outfit of khaki pants, a red button up short sleeve shirt and his loose pink tie tucked into his shirt pocket. But he now had a dark blue coat draped over his shoulders, it being in a similar style to the swordsmen coats worn by Rintaro and Daishinji. Sophia was currently beside him, the two listening into the current situation.
"We've managed to contain the incident," Aoi reported in via her communicator, "However Dr. Ver has gone missing, as has Solomon's Cane and the Book of Ruin."
"I see. Hurry back here," Genjuro replied.
"Understood," Aoi said before hanging up.
"Megid," Sakuya sighed as he turned from his seat, "In all likelihood it was Calibur who orchestrated the attacks, right?"
"We can only assume," Genjuro crossed his arms and went into deep thought, "Do the Megid now have their own way to control Noise? But even then… why would they need Solomon's Cane if that were the case."
"Perhaps they only have limited control," Sophia suggested.
"Still, it feels odd that Calibur would go through all the trouble trying to secure the Book of Ruin earlier when he could simply do it like this," Sakuya replied.
"Unfortunately we don't know what their next move is," Genjuro sighed, "As of now we can only wait till they strike next given how hard it is to track the Megid and none of the Leaders were present in the attack."
Ogawa was currently backstage in a stadium with Tsubasa, the idol currently mentally preparing for the performance that was about to happen in the coming minutes. She had ended up making it to the top of the ranks as Japan's Top Idol Singer, and tonight she was to sing with Maria Cadenzavna Eve, who broke into America's idol circuit and made her way to the top as well.
Needless to say it was a very important performance for a variety of reasons. After all, it was the first time Tsubasa would perform a duo act with another after several years. Not to mention the fact that it wasn't just being broadcasted to the US or Japan, but it was being broadcast worldwide.
Every idol fan was bursting with anticipation, to the point where Miku alongside her trio of friends from Lydian were in the crowd alongside both Touma and Rintaro. Of course the two weren't exactly just there for fun, though that was the main reason given. Both Touma and Rintaro were positioned in the audience on official orders by Section 2, just in case something went wrong.
Ogawa himself was also in position just in case something went wrong, a black briefcase being next to where Tsubasa was currently sitting.
"I understand," Ogawa said as he was speaking to the Commanders of Section 2 on his communicator, "Then I should inform Tsubasa of-"
"No need. If she caught word of the attack, she'd cancel tonight's show," Genjuro answered.
"As of right now we have no leads, so just let her enjoy tonight," Sophia added, "We have you, Saber and Blades positioned there for a reason."
"Understood, then we'll leave it to you," Ogawa said before taking off his glasses and pocketing them.
"What did the Commander's say?" Tsubasa asked when she heard the call end.
"Genjuro wants you to make tonight a show to remember, and Sophia said to enjoy yourself out there," Ogawa said as he turned to walk over, giving one technical lie and a truth.
Tsubasa gave a sigh as she crossed her arms and walked over to intercept him, "You took your glasses off, which means it wasn't a business matter. You need to take note of your own habits, or the enemy will make us-"
"It's almost time for the show! Please come this way!" A worker called out to the two.
"Okay! I'll be right there!" Tsubasa called out.
"Healing the hearts of those who were hurt is another one of Kazanari Tsubasa's important duties," Ogawa said before giving a smile, "Good luck!"
"I'm not happy about this, but it can wait I suppose," Tsubasa admitted, "Just make sure you tell me the details later as soon as you can. I'm still not happy that I was the last to find out about your new role."
"Of course," Ogawa gave a sheepish chuckle and a bow before he watched Tsubasa walk off. He then walked over to the briefcase and picked it up, "I can only hope tonight goes off without a hitch."
Hidden from view behind several stacked crates a figure began to rise up out of the shadows that were casted by them. It was none other than Desast who gave an amused quiet chuckle, "Tonight will certainly be a party…"
"Of all things," Kento muttered as he pinched the bridge of his nose before walking over to a heavily armored black van that was parked out of view near the Queen's of Music Concert Hall where the performance was to be had. He then entered to show that the inside of the van was a high tech control room.
Watching one of the screens was an elderly woman with blue hair, supporting herself on a high tech wheelchair. Next to her was Calibur who simply held his hands behind his back.
"Nastassja," Kento said as he fully made his way in, he had a tenser look on him as he looked at the dark rider, "Calibur…"
Calibur simply gave an amused grunt at the reaction.
"I'm surprised to see you came all the way over here," Nastassja mentioned, "Why?"
"Maria was very insistent I get this to you all before her performance," Kento said as he held up a bags that held several foam trays of what smelled like food in them.
Calibur could only give an amused scoff, "Of course she was."
"Well set it down to the side, we'll probably need it after tonight," Nastaasja answered.
It wasn't long before a beep could be heard, a message appearing on one of the monitors.
Si Vis Pacem, Para Bellum
"If you want peace, prepare for war"
"So you're finally here. We've been waiting for so long," Nastaaja gave a smile.
"I suppose it's time to get ready," Calibur said as he drew out Kurayami.
Watching from around a corner were two figures, both holding crystal-like pendants around their necks.
As the time drew closer, the audience was getting pumped up further, chanting Maria's name over and over again.
"I must admit for not being used to these sorts of things, this is fairly exciting," Rintaro said as he was currently in a VIP seating with Touma, Miku and her friends from school.
"That's Maria Cadenzavna Eve for you! She just rocks live!" Yumi called out as she waved her glow sticks like crazy.
"She only just made it onto the US charts a few months ago," Shiori explained, "But she's already got a great stage presence."
"I thought we could do something like this for the next school fair, but there's no way we could pull off an event of this scale," Yumi mentioned.
"That plan of yours was doomed from the start, Itaba," Shiori admitted.
"Speaking of the school fair," Miku looked over at Touma, "You mentioned you'd be taking part in it?"
"Given my connections yeah," Touma said as he rubbed the back of his head a bit, "I wasn't sure at first but Tsubasa had ended up convincing me to go through with it."
"I'm still impressed we were able to get seating like this," Rintaro looked around.
"Well that's what you get for knowing one of the two idols performing," Kuriyo said before noticing Miku checking her watch, "Still no word from Bikki? The show's about to start..."
Miku shook her head, though she, Touma and Rintaro all knew that it was likely the transport mission taking longer than expected. Though they all remembered her words of reassurance prior to her leaving.
"Don't worry I'll make it just in time, I promise!"
"And Kazanari extended her a personal invitation, too," Shiori said, "I can't believe she'd miss tonight's special duet."
"C'mon, she never lets anyone down!" Yumi defended.
It didn't take long before the lights dimmed and the crowd went quiet at that. As the venue was now filled with glow sticks shining in the night, the center of the main stage began to rise as spotlights revealed the two singers. Maria was sporting a white European styled dress while Tsubasa contrasted with a traditional styled Eastern dress. The two holding microphones that were fashioned to look like swords.
"Show me the blade you draw on the battlefield," Maria called to Tsubasa who simply smirked in reply.
With that silent declaration, the song started as the duet began.
Desast couldn't help but peak around, using his abilities to his advantage as he kept out of view of any security cameras. Thankfully the backstage setup area was very relaxed in people walking around, so much so he was able to catch the current duet on one of the monitors.
"Look at you two having fun…" Desast gave a chuckle as he leaned against a crate. He couldn't help but tap along to the song as he watched the two sing their hearts out, "So this is what one can do off of the battlefield…" He then turned and went to slide against the crate, sitting down as he drew out his sword and inspected it, "I doubt I'd be able to pull anything off like that."
"Enjoying the show?"
It wasn't long before Calibur walked out of a dark corridor with Kento, Dark Rider bending the shadows around them with Kurayami to keep them fully hidden.
"Like you need to know," Desast scoffed before standing up, "So I take it we're ready?"
"Once Maria gives the signal, we'll begin," Kento replied, "But remember your job is to make sure this backstage area is secure, got it?"
"So bossy," Desast remarked before resting his blade against his shoulder, "But fine, I get it."
"Good," Calibur replied, "Regardless I doubt you'll be bored much anyway. Just make sure no one tries to interfere back here and we'll be good."
"Meanwhile you two get to hog the spotlight huh?" Desast asked.
"Call it what you will, we're here to get a job done via some misdirection," Kento replied before heading off since he was still in his disguise.
"What a good kid," Desast said, sarcasm dripping from his closed mouth, "I'm honestly surprised you managed to get him to cooperate all things considered."
"Yes, I've been made aware of that numerous times," Calibur replied, "But he's aware of the bigger picture. We'll be fine."
"Right…" Desast replied before perking up, "Sounds like it's just ending…"
"More like it's just beginning," Calibur said.
"Thank you!" Tsubasa spoke towards the cheering crowd after the song had completed, "Every day, your support inspires me to do my very best. That's why I hope my songs can give a little inspiration in return to everyone who listens to them!"
The crowd continued to cheer louder, their glow sticks illuminating the stadium before them.
"What an incredible performance," Rintaro admitted as he clapped.
"That's Tsubasa for you," Touma chuckled as he heard the cheers of the crowd, "She also has really good chemistry with Maria, it's surprising given its their first time."
"Ah you noticed it as well," Rintaro said to which Touma gave a nod.
"I'll make my songs reach all around the world!" Maria declared as she threw her arm forward, "Never looking back, always charging ahead! Keep up with me if you can!"
The two singers couldn't help but smile as they heard the cheers grow louder and louder, as if they were hearing the entire world cheering for them at that very instant.
"I'm grateful for the chance to stand on this stage tonight," Maria admitted, "Especially alongside Tsubasa Kazanari, Japan's most famous singer."
"I'm also honored to have met a wonderful singer like yourself," Tsubasa said as she walked over and held out a hand.
"We must show everyone the true power of music," Maria said as she shook Tsubasa's hand.
"Power that can change the world," Tsubasa agreed.
Maria then released her grip on the handshake, walking away and giving a smirk, "And that's not all."
Tsubasa could only raise an eyebrow as Maria flung her arm out to the side, her dress flowing out as a result of the flourish.
In an instant Noise materialized in front of the stage before they began appearing all throughout the stadium. Needless to say the crowds themselves screamed out in fear and began to panic, everyone shoving themselves as they tried to get away. Tsubasa could only look on in horror as she witnessed this.
"Don't panic," Maria said in a near whisper as her lips quivered, she then held the microphone closer to her mouth and shouted out, "Don't Panic!"
Thanks to that she was able to reign in the crowd for the most part, the screams stopping as everyone was now murmuring in confusion.
"What's going on?" Yumi asked as she watched everything occur down below.
"Why is this happening again?" Kuriyo asked.
"Hibiki…" Miku trailed as she hoped that her friend would be able to make it in time. She then looked over towards her two Rider friends.
Touma and Rintaro had fully stood in surprise, the two glancing at each other as they reached and held their Swordrivers at their sides, Rekka and Nagare slotted in and ready to go.
"Confirmed, a large mass of Noise have appeared!" Sakuya called out as Section 2 had just received the Noise Alert, "Location: the Queen's of Music concert hall!"
"What?" Genjuro asked as he stood up from his seat.
"Oh dear," Sophia said as she took a step back.
"I need to get going, get a transport ready for me," Genjuro said as he shifted the coat on his shoulders, putting his arms through the sleeves before fixing it up. He then walked over to the entrance where Gekido was leaning against the wall, already slung into its holding strap. He grabbed it and slung it around his shoulder.
"On it," Sakuya said as he began working on getting a helicopter prepped for the Commander of Section 2 as soon as possible.
"Please be careful," Sophia looked over at her fellow Commander, "The Noise showing up here after the attack earlier in one day can only mean one thing."
"I know," Genjuro grimaced before heading out.
A helicopter flew through the air, making its way towards the stadium. Hibiki and Chris had been on their way to view the Queen's of Music show live. Thankfully they had a monitor to view the performance but that just meant they had ended up witnessing what had just occurred.
"Roger," Aoi answered her communicator, "I'll be arriving at the scene in forty minutes with the three combatants. We'll get the situation under control then."
Daishinji couldn't help but tap his fingers gently against Suzune as he sat with the two Wielders. The plan was to just drop the two off and then head back to Section 2 but now they needed to fight again.
"You heard what they said," Aoi looked back at the three, "I know three battles in a row must be exhausting, but we can't take any risks."
"That's why I'm here, I've only participated in one of the prior two," Daishinji reassured, "Not to mention once Saber and Blades get involved, we shouldn't have to worry about straining ourselves."
"And something's controlling the Noise here too," Chris noted as she looked towards the monitor.
"We don't know the details yet, but…" Aoi trailed.
Hibiki looked over, "But what?"
"When you consider the targeted Noise attack on Solomon's Cane and the Book of Ruin, and the events at the arena right now, it's almost certain that the incidents are related," Aoi explained.
"It's the most educated guess we can have at the moment," Daishinji agreed while Hibiki and Chris could only look on in worry.
Tsubasa could only look around, pulling off her outfit's collar to reveal her pendant as she prepared herself.
"Aren't we scary?" Maria lowered her mic and addressed Tsubasa directly, "You're still ready to fight, even at such an overwhelming disadvantage. But you shouldn't be so hasty. Do you really think you could stop the Noise from slaughtering the audience?"
Tsubasa could only grit her teeth in frustration at this fact.
"Not to mention," Maria then looked over to the screens on the stadium that were broadcasting the show, "This show is being broadcast all over the world. While the Japanese government disclosed the technology behind Symphogear and Kamen Riders, they said nothing about its users. Am I right, Tsubasa Kazanari?"
"Do you think so little of me?" Tsubasa questioned, "Do you really believe I'd hesitate to draw my sword?"
"I kind of like that about you," Maria pointed out, a more solemn expression crossing her face, "If everyone had the guts to fight for each other like you do, the world might have been a better place."
"What?" Tsubasa asked, confused by what she was seeing, "Maria Cadenzavna Eve. Who are you?"
"Right, I guess it's time to start the real show," Maria said before spinning the microphone in her hand, soon moving it close and speaking into it.
"We hold dominion over the Noise! Thus, we claim rulership of all countries throughout the world!"
"She's turning the whole world against her?" Tsubasa questioned, "This is-"
"Is she declaring war?!" Touma questioned.
"T-This is insane…" Rintaro managed to get out.
"And so…" Maria started before suddenly tossing her microphone into the sky, it flipping high up as she closed her eyes, "Granzizel bilfen Gungnir zizzl~"
Energy erupted from Maria as a pendant around her neck could be seen briefly before the energy encased her in a sphere.
"It can't be!" Tsubasa called out in shock.
The energy sphere cracked before breaking, Maria clad in blackened armor as she caught the microphone once it fell. While there were some changes, the most obvious being a cape, the Symphogear she wore was indeed Gungnir.
"Are… are my eyes deceiving me?" Rintaro asked.
Touma could only step forward at this, "A black… Gungnir?"
"I…" Rintaro's trailed as he saw this.
"I… we are Finé!" Maria called out through her microphone, "Yes… we are the ones named "the end"!"
To Be Continued…
Author's Note: And so at last, we begin Symphogear G! I figured the train mission would go normally to where Daishinji didn't need to transform and I didn't really need to show it. Instead I chose to add to and show the base attack to fully debut Slash. Plus Chris and Hibiki still get to show off their cool new moves.
Of course the start of G is going to be packed with debuts, what with Ogawa holding onto a case of sorts for a reason you might know. Also the fact that Kento is now fully in play starting now. So fun fact, he was originally going to be part of the S1 Debuts and even be with Section 2. But I realized having 6 Riders debut in S1 alongside having all three Swordriver Wielders meant bloating and shoving in more Rider/Form Debuts when I already had a good flow. So he was saved for G where his role is much different than originally planned.
That aside, we've officially updated this story for one year straight! I'd like to thank everyone for the support with faves, follows, subs, bookmarks and kudos, and I'm glad to have gotten this far. Your support means everything to me when it comes to my long form stories and I really appreciate it! So again, thanks for reading and I'll see you all next time as we continue the G Arc of SoS.