Sympho-Saber: Song of Swords
G: EP03 – Cornered by their Prey
In a dark room a man was sitting in a chair, he was cloaked in a red hooded coat with grey edges and gold lining. In front of him was a curved table that held various boxed televisions. All of them were currently showing various reports and footage of the Queens of Music concert. Though some bits of footage were constantly replaying, such as Maria's brief clash against Saber and Blades, Espada showing up, and some found footage online of people who caught the colorful tornado finish of S2CA.
"So the Raimeiken Ikazuchi has emerged after seemingly being lost for two years," The man said as the hood hid his grin. The remaining screens began to show footage of the other Riders, Slash, Kenzan, Buster and Calibur, "That makes 10 altogether including ours… but the 11th is still hidden."
"Master Logos."
Reika was the one who spoke up as she soon arrived from the entrance to the room, soon kneeling and bowing her head, "You wanted to see me?"
"Yes," the man, Master Logos, spoke up as he glanced back, "Nearly all of the Seiken are back out into the world. Meaning our plan can begin moving once more."
"Wait," Reika glanced up and noticed Espada on one of the monitors, "Ikazuchi has finally resurfaced?"
"Yes," Master Logos replied, "I need you to send Falchion back, she is to try and push things along so that each side keeps vying for power."
"Vying for power, sir?" Reika asked.
"Yes, while the Seiken are out in the open, we lack the necessary tomes required to continue our goal," Master Logos answered, "And while they are on the path of doing this themselves, it would help if we push both Calibur and Section 2 further so they may grow and open up new avenues for us."
"Understood," Reika gave a nod before standing up. She paused however, thinking about Kanade's state after the last mission, "But there is one concern I have… about Falchion."
"What about her?" Master Logos asked.
"Ever since her attempt to claim the Book of Ruin, she's been off," Reika replied, "I'm concerned that something might be wrong with her."
"Ah I take it you're worried about her mental state given the way I saved her," Master Logos said, "Am I correct?"
"Just a bit," Reika admitted.
"While I hold a great mastery over the books we have in our possession even I am not infallible," Master Logos admitted, "However unless she displays any irrational or odd behavior then she should be fine."
"I see, I'll take my leave then," Reika trailed before giving a bow, soon turning around to exit.
Master Logos simply looked back at the screens, this time showing various images and video of the S2CA in action. He clasped his hands together as he watched the footage on the three center screens.
"Superb Song!"
"Combination Arts!"
"Set Harmonics!"
"By harmonizing multiple Superb Songs, not only can she amplify their power, but she can also reduce the strain that the relics put upon their users," Master Logos mused as he saw Hibiki Tachibana on screen, "According to the Sakurai Theory, each Superb Song has a special ability that extends the user's armed gear. However that girl's linking of hands is a unique ability that she adapted to the song itself. This is the very reason they could use their Superb Songs to destroy the falling pieces of the Moon but return safely…"
It wasn't long before the side screens began showing various images of the Wonder Ride Books in use.
"…And then there are the Wonder Ride Books which are able to react and combine with the power of song," he said as he leaned forward, continuing to ramble to himself, "The fact was that they were able to return in mere minutes thanks to that connection. A triple combination of Superb Songs on its own is unimaginably powerful… but with pieces of the Great Book… perhaps this combination is the key I'm looking for. I know for sure that massive amount of Phonic Gain at least is what someone else was looking for…"
It had been a week since the concert incident, with Genjuro and Sophia both overseeing the operators in Section 2's main control room. Daishinji was currently leaning next to the entrance, his arms crossed as he had his left foot pressed up against the wall.
"One week has passed since the declaration of war at the concert," Sakuya mentioned.
"Yeah," Genjuro agreed, "A week has passed, and nothing has happened."
"According to our government sources," Aoi spoke up, "The terrorist organization known as Finé hasn't attempted to threaten or negotiate with any countries since then."
"Could it have been a bluff?" Sophia asked.
"A foolish one if you ask me given how big the bluff was," Daishinji remarked.
"Which means we have no idea what they want," Genjuro said.
"They certainly made a name for themselves with that ostentatious performance," Sakuya said as he typed away, "Luckily, that afforded us at the Second Branch the opportunity for swift countermeasures."
"Hardly typical behavior for would-be revolutionaries," Genjuro pointed out, "But perhaps that's what they wanted all along."
"Commanders," Ogawa's voice was heard as he opened a communications line.
"Ogawa," Sophia spoke up, "How's the information hunt going?"
"I had a look into the origin of the abandoned trailer we found near the stadium," Ogawa answered.
"You little asshole...!" A gruff man spoke loud enough be heard before kicks and punches sounded off, it wasn't long before screams and yells echoed through the call.
"What is this guy, a ninja?!"
"I can't move my body!"
All the while Ogawa continued speaking, "I found many large-scale purchasing orders to fictional sources for medical and measurement equipment as well as pharmaceutical supplies."
Genjuro put a hand to his chin, "Medical equipment?"
"The dates on the records extend back two months," Ogawa said, "It would appear these antisocial gentlemen were laundering money. Don't these records pique your interest?"
"It does seem worth looking into," Genjuro admitted.
"Please proceed with caution however," Sophia spoke up.
"Ogawa," Daishinji said as he walked over towards the commanders while raising his voice, "I do hope I don't need to remind you about the proper use of a Seiken, correct?"
"There's no need to worry," Ogawa gave a chuckle, "Considering why you picked me to wield Hayate, it would be a waste of it and my skills to simply use it on these gentlemen when I'm more than capable without it."
"Very well then," Daishinji said.
"Still being fairly protective I see," Genjuro gave a smile.
"I have five swords I must work on constantly now, not to mention what little I can do for the Symphogear Pendants," Daishinji answered as he turned away before heading for the door, "I'd rather everyone be careful with their equipment if possible to ease the workload."
"I suppose that's fair," Genjuro chuckled.
"We'll call you if anything comes up Slash," Sophia gave a smile.
"Of course," Daishinji nodded before heading out of the control room.
At a remote abandoned hospital, it was anything but what it appeared to be on the outside. While it wasn't the most cleaned up inside it still had basic living conditions that could be used. Not to mention it was retrofitted with various monitors and hardware. This was the base that held the group known as Finé. While the Wielders of Finé were off further into the hideout, Nastassja was currently with Kento, the two observing the monitors in a dimly lit room.
It was a grey monstrous creature with a large head and large fists, its body and legs being proportionally smaller. It also had orange glowing markings, the patterning almost similar to magma. Currently it seemed to be sleeping as it lay on the floor and breathed in and out.
"So this is it, huh?" Kento asked, this being his first time fully seeing the beast.
"Indeed, this is what that final attack of that night allowed us access to," Nastassja confirmed, "Using that I awakened the Nephilim."
"Giants that fell from the heavens…" Kento muttered, recalling some passages he read when he found out what they'd be using for their plans.
"Indeed," Nastassja gave a nod before glancing to the side, "So is he not joining us today?"
"For now no, he had some business with the Megid Leaders," Kento explained, "So I'm the only one of us here today."
"Not like that matters," Nastassja admitted, "It's been like that ever since you were brought in as a technical expert regarding Seiken and Wonder Ride Books. His appearances were always brief and scarce, at least until the Lunar Attack concluded."
"Yeah," Kento gave a nod.
"While I'm still unsure of Calibur's true intentions alongside those of the Megid," Nastassja openly spoke up, "I appreciate you for assisting wherever you could, you've been a genuine help and influence to have around."
"I appreciate that," Kento said before turning away and giving a grimace, glad that it was dark and he was more towards the back of Nastassja's side. He knew what his real purpose was, and he hated that his genuine nature did allow Nastassja and the girls to drop their guards somewhat. Because if they knew… then…
Kento's thoughts were broken when he heard low growls, turning back towards the screen to see the Nephilim waking up. Though its awakening was rather rowdy as it slammed its hands against the ground, thankfully it didn't cause any shaking due to it still being groggy, but their time was short.
"Initiating protocols," Nastassja said as she pressed a button, the alarm sounding within the hospital as various doors began to slam shut before locking. On the screen an audible thump could be heard as the Nephilim began to grab and bite into what landed in front of it.
"It got rowdier and hungrier," Kento realized, noticing that its awakening was a lot louder than previously alongside its hunger returning faster.
"This is the legendary hunger that drives them to consume even their own kind," Nastassja spoke up, "Despite our precautions the Nephilim really is an uncontrollable…"
"…An uncontrollable legacy of an ancient civilization?" A voice interrupted as square glasses shined through a dark hall that was connected to the room, a figured walking forward, "Please don't think of it that way."
"Unfortunately given what we've seen it's hard to think otherwise," Kento admitted.
"Dr. Ver," Nastassja said as she watched the scientist walk into the room.
"Even if we humans cannot control it, does that matter if it can become a heroic figure for us all?" Ver asked.
"But will we have time to nurture it into this heroic figure?" Kento asked.
"A fair concern to have," Ver said before placing a hand on his chest, "I for one believe we will."
"Mom! What was that alarm?!"
Kento glanced back alongside Nastassja and Ver, the three watching as the trio of Maria, Kirika and Shirabe entered from another door.
"The next flower is still only a bud, so I wish to handle it carefully," Ver explained.
"Thank you for your concern, but we are all right," Nastassja replied, "The Nephilim just went a little wild. I closed the blast doors and provided it with food, so it should calm down soon."
Despite those words, the room shook as the Nephilim grew more agitated for a short bit.
"Mom!" Maria called out as she wasn't convinced.
"If need be I can go out there," Kento offered, "A few good electric shocks could do the trick."
"Don't be ridiculous," Maria narrowed her eyes, "It's too dangerous."
"She's correct," Nastassja replied, "You're at a huge risk since while different, you also use the power of Relics to fight."
"Admittedly I am curious as to what its reaction would be if it fed on a Wonder Ride Book," Ver admitted as he put a hand to his chin, "It's a shame that we don't have some disposable books around. The Alter Ride Books don't seem that important…"
"Unfortunately Calibur has yet to convince Storious to hand any over," Kento replied.
"Regardless the appropriate measures have already been taken," Nastassja replied, "Don't worry."
"More importantly, isn't it time for your inspection?" Ver asked.
"The Frontier is a key element in the execution of our plan," Nastassja said, "It is necessary to keep a close eye on it to ensure operations begin smoothly."
"Please don't worry about me," Ver gave a pleasant smile, "I'll hold the fort while you're gone and procure some more food for the Nephilim while I'm at it."
"Then let me leave Kento, Shirabe and Kirika to serve as your bodyguards," Nastassja offered.
"I wasn't planning on getting into any fights, so that shouldn't be necessary," Ver politely declined, "It might be better for you to keep our forces as your personal guard."
"I'll relent with our Wielders," Nastassja replied, "But it would do you some good to at least have one Rider here."
"I suppose if you insist," Ver gave a simple shrug as he admittedly didn't mind Kento's presence too much. He'd just have to be careful so he felt it fine to relent, "I'll allow Fukamiya to be my personal guard."
"We shall return at the scheduled time," Nastassja said, "I'll leave the rest to you two."
"I'll go see you all off at least," Kento said before walking off with Nastassja and the trio of Wielders.
Unbeknownst to them, now that Ver was on his own and he couldn't help but give a smirk, 'Now then. Will the prey take the bait?'
The new Lydian Acadamy, alongside the school changing venues since the old school grounds were no longer usable, was going to be host to a festival in the coming days. As such after school each day, everyone was getting things prepped and ready to go for it. Touma himself was one of these people, having volunteered to represent Fantastic Bookstore Kamiyama since the storefront itself had partnered with Lydian. His idea was simple and as such he had to set up fliers around town the days prior since it was a book drive.
While Lydian had government funding and compensation for getting the supplies they needed to restart the school, there were some small issues. Parts of which was the fact that while the library was able to get the necessities in terms of books, it was still a rather limiting variety. Touma had thought this was a travesty and immediately asked to run a book drive, planning on running a booth where he'd be accepting various books people brought in. Those that were considered to be good would be filed and added to the library while those that weren't would be given to charity.
Overall it seemed like a pretty easy thing to do aside from the preparations and making sure people were aware of it prior to the festival. There was just one small issue…
"I see, so he's been like this for a while?"
"Yeah, I'm not sure what happened."
"I can hazard a guess."
Tsubasa was currently talking to Miku, the two in one of the vacant classrooms as it was a couple hours after school had wrapped up. Touma had been skipping his usual study sessions with Hibiki in order to get everything prepared, Hibiki offering to help. Of course both of them were currently mulling on issues of their own. Hibiki was still trying to figure out her feelings regarding Shirabe's words, and Touma, well…
Touma was currently sitting on a chair backwards and deep in thought while Hibiki was currently trying to distract herself from her thoughts on Shirabe's words by putting the finishing touches on the sign for Touma's booth.
"It's odd seeing Tachibana so fired up like this," Tsubasa admitted.
"Yeah she's been a bit distracted lately so I'm surprised," Miku replied before shaking her head, "So what's wrong with Touma?"
"Well it's…" Tsubasa trailed, wondering how exactly to word this. Especially since this all started with a meeting a couple of days ago in regards to return of Kamen Rider Espada.
"It's been several days, thank you for bearing with us as we work on figuring this situation out," Genjuro said as he addressed the Wielders and Riders in the control room with Sophia. The trio of Symphogear Wielders, Hibiki, Tsubasa and Chris were present alongside the Riders they had, Touma, Rintaro, Daishinji, and Ogawa.
"So what is this about exactly?" Chris asked, "You've got a lead on that Finé group? Are we finally about to strike back?"
"Unfortunately no leads just yet," Sophia admitted.
"Then what exactly is this about?" Tsubasa asked.
"As you all know, this new group has the support of the Megid," Genjuro said as he crossed his arms, "However they now have a new member we weren't aware of until that night."
It wasn't long before the main screen at the front of the control room lit up. Images of Kamen Rider Espada were brought up from what footage of the concert there was. Of course it wasn't long before other shots of Espada were shown off alongside a full body view of it.
"Espada was the swordsman of the Logos Sector that we were unable to locate two years ago," Sophia explained.
"So he's showed up again, but he's an enemy?" Hibiki asked.
"I take it that Calibur found a replacement for whoever used his sword?" Ogawa asked.
"Not exactly," Genjuro sighed.
"What?" Tsubasa asked.
"If I recall, he sounded exactly like the guy who saved me back during the concert two years ago," Touma admitted as he put a hand to his chin, "I'm not certain why he'd join Calibur though."
"There's a simple explanation for that…" Daishinji admitted in a slightly tense voice.
"Not only did his voice match up, he didn't deny knowing me, plus those enemy Symphogear Wielders were close enough to him to call him by name," Rintaro spoke up as his voice shook, his hands gripped tightly, "That confirmed to me his identity."
"Rintaro…?" Hibiki gave a concerned glance.
"From all the information gathered, there is only one option as to who is now wielding the Raimeiken Ikazuchi," Sophia explained, "And that is that it is still in the hands of the same user as two years ago."
"It would be too hard and risky to bring in a new swordsman," Daishinji replied, "Especially given Calibur's identity, it all lines up."
"Okay, enough with the vague nonsense!" Chris called out in slight annoyance, "Who are we dealing with? Heck, who even is Calibur?"
"Wait, you never knew?" Tsubasa asked.
"Every time he was in that manor he was always in that armor," Chris replied, "Why do you think I call him a freak?"
"The identity of Calibur is Hayato Fukamiya," Genjuro said as Hayato's image was brought up on the screen. He was an older man with long almost messy and curly hair, having a beard and a goatee.
Touma had to pause at this, "…Fukamiya?"
"How exactly does Calibur's identity relate to Esapda?" Tsubasa asked.
"Because Hayato Fukamiya also had a son," Sophia said, not noticing her words had caused Touma to tense up, "He was one of our youngest swordsmen at the time, taking up the mantle of Espada."
It wasn't long before pictures of Hayato's son appeared next to him, Touma recognizing him as the same swordsman of thunder that saved him. Touma's heart skipped a beat however when the son's name appeared on screen.
"Kento Fukamiya," Genjuro spoke clearly.
"Wait, what?" Hibiki asked, a bit surprised by this revelation, "So then…"
"It makes perfect sense that he'd be allied with Caibur," Daishinji spoke up, "After all, Calibur is his father."
"His father…" Hibiki muttered.
"The only question is why?" Tsubasa asked, "Even if Calibur's intentions were to stop Finé's plan, would he really be that desperate to follow his own father over doing what's right? Especially given how malicious the Megid are?"
"If he was with his father he had to be aware that Hayato was the one who cooperated with the Megid to help cause that tragedy," Daishinji mused, "Still…"
"Does it really matter why?" Rintaro asked in an almost hurt voice as he tried to hold back his emotions, "Just like Hayato… Kento's betrayed us."
"He has to have a reason," Touma spoke up after everything registered for him, everyone looking over to him as he continued, "Would he really be willing to work with the Megid? Even if…"
"There is no reason Touma," Rintaro turned towards his fellow Rider, "He chose to abandon us and work with our enemies, he's a traitor."
"Even so he still has to have a reason!" Touma called out as he raised his voice, "Kento isn't like that!"
It wasn't long before the entire room went silent, most were in surprise on how Touma raised his voice. Meanwhile the rest were plain confused, especially given the way that outburst was structured.
Touma suddenly realized his outburst and quickly held his hat before clearing his throat, giving a bow and quickly excusing himself before walking out into the hallway.
"T-Touma…?" Rintaro stammered, surprised at his friends outburst.
"What was that about?" Chris asked.
"I'm a fool…" Daishinji clicked his tongue, suddenly remembering the Swordsman of Fire's prodding when he first joined Section 2 about the Swordsman of Thunder, "So that's why he asked…"
"Excuse me Commander," Tsubasa gave a bow before hurrying off after Touma.
"Uh, y-yeah, excuse me too!" Hibiki gave a quick bow before running after Tsubasa.
Touma meanwhile was in the hallway, hands pressed against the wall as he looked down at the floor, trying to process the information that was given to him, "Kento…"
"Kamiyama…?" Tsubasa asked as she slowly approached with Hibiki, she was unsure of what to say before deciding to go for the obvious, "Is everything alright?"
"Touma, what's wrong?" Hibiki asked.
"Tsubasa, did I ever tell you about my childhood?" Touma suddenly asked.
"I don't recall you ever telling me," Tsubasa admitted before raising an eyebrow, "Why bring this up now?"
"Back when I was a kid, before I met Hibiki and Miku, I actually met a boy and a girl who were my best friends for a short while," Touma said as he gave a sad smile, turning around and leaning against the hallway before sliding down to sit, "Even when I was a kid I still had a creative spark, creating tons of strange and wonderful ideas. So much so that she, Luna, was enamored by them. She even gave me a book I cherish as a memento. But it wasn't just her, there was this boy who I thought at the time had an even bigger imagination. He talked about how his father was a great swordsman to a great legacy and how he was going to become a great swordsman one day too. His name was Kento Fukamiya…"
"Touma…" Hibiki looked down at her friend in concern.
"Oh," Tsubasa said, soon realizing why Touma shouted like that earlier, "I…"
"It's funny in a cruel way honestly…" Touma gave a sad laugh as he raised his knees and wrapped his arms around them, "One day, Luna and Kento ended up not showing up at our usual spot anymore. I guess life got hectic for them, I didn't ever see them around the city again either. I was hoping one day we'd meet again… but I wasn't expecting it to be like this…"
"Touma," Hibiki quickly walked over and sat next to her friend, placing a hand on his hands, "I'm sure he has a reason."
"Even then…" Touma muttered.
"I can only hope he'd be willing to let us in on his reasoning's," Tsubasa spoke up before walking over to Touma and soon sitting down on the other side of him, "But do you really think he's the same man after all these years?"
"He saved me back in the Zwei Wing concert and was genuinely concerned when I said Hibiki was in danger," Touma said as he relaxed a bit, "It's hard to believe that he'd join up with Calibur, even if it meant stopping Finé… going about it how Calibur did…"
"You won't be facing him alone," Tsubasa reassured, "Tachibana and I have your back, as do the others."
"Yeah, we'll help you get through this!" Hibiki added.
Touma couldn't help but give a small smile, removing his hands from his knees before shifting his hat downwards, "Thank you…"
"That's awful…" Miku frowned, "To think that he finally finds one of his friends after so long only to find out they're an enemy."
"It's an unfortunate occurrence," Tsubasa agreed.
"Kento…" Touma muttered as he stared at the wall.
"He's been like that nearly the entire time he's been here today," Hibiki admitted with a bit of concern as she glanced back after Tsubasa had finished catching Miku up.
"I'm surprised it hit him today though," Tsubasa said.
"He was probably able to distract himself for a bit… but I guess going through the same routine caused his mind to wander back to what's going on," Miku replied.
"Hmm…" Tsubasa realized that she technically also had somewhere to be, "Tachibana, can you work on the finishing touches by yourself?"
"Uh, I should be able to, why?" Hibiki asked.
Tsubasa didn't say anything but pointed towards Touma before pointing towards the door.
Hibiki realized what Tsubasa was trying to do and gave a nod, "I'll do my best!"
"I'll stay here to make sure she isn't alone," Miku added.
"Thank you," Tsubasa said as she went over and grabbed Touma by the arm, "Kamiyama I require your assistance."
"Huh?" Touma wasn't able to say another word as Tsubasa lifted him up out of his chair before pulling and dragging him away, "Huh, wait Tsubasa, what are you doing?! I need to finish the sign!"
"You've been doing a wonderful job with that today," Tsubasa's voice was dripping with sarcasm as she dragged him along, "Tachibana and Kohinata can pick up the slack. I need you to help me with something."
"Eh, seriously…? Wait, you can just decide that!?" Touma called out as he flailed a bit before he was dragged out.
After struggling for a bit Touma eventually relented and followed Tsubasa, the idol student going to get supplies and grabbing a paper bag of art supplies while instructing Touma to do the same.
"So what's this for?" Touma asked.
"While I did say I'd help you out in running your booth I do have my own duties as a senior student," Tsubasa explained, "I'd already offered to take care of some preparations for the festival and was mostly just checking on your progress before I went my own way."
"Oh, I see," Touma replied before giving a hum, "The breeze is nice today."
"A nice cool breeze is sure to help clear your mind," Tsubasa replied, "I must admit, I wasn't sure how I'd enjoy the new location for the school but it's quite nice."
"It really is," Touma gave a smile.
"You're also saying that because this was an older building and thus it doesn't have that confusing modern architecture you despise," Tsubasa said, recalling his outburst at the concert, "Am I correct?"
Touma gave a nervous chuckle, "That obvious?"
"Very," Tsubasa said.
It wasn't long before the two were blindsided by a student suddenly running into them after immediately turning a corner. Touma and Tsubasa had ended up tumbling to the ground alongside the student.
"If you're going to run, you could at least look at where you're going," Tsubasa chided as she rubbed her hip.
"Jeez, what's the rush?" Touma gave a groan as he leaned over to get on one knee, as he got a good look at the student he blinked a few times, "Eh, Chris?"
"Yukine?" Tsubasa asked as she stood up, "Why are you in such a hurry?"
"They're… they're after me!" Chris explained in a vague but hushed voice, "They'll be here any moment!"
"Wait, are we under attack?" Touma asked as he picked himself up.
"What?" Tsubasa asked.
Chris quickly went further into the hall and behind Tsubasa and Touma, glancing towards the corner she had run in from. Both Touma and Tsubasa peaked out and were confused as they only saw a few students running by.
"I don't see anyone suspicious," Tsubasa said.
"I see," Chris said, "I guess I managed to shake them off, then."
"Um, who…?" Touma asked.
"Yes, who are you talking about?" Tsubasa asked.
"These girls in class who keep trying to find ways to drag me into participating in some school event," Chris explained.
"Wait, seriously?" Touma asked, though Tsubasa merely smiled.
"Yukine!"
"Where did you go?"
Tsubasa meanwhile went to go pick up the art supplies that dropped, Touma doing the same.
"I feel like you might be overreacting slightly," Touma looked over to his friend.
"Did you forget we were attacked by those mysterious militants known as Finé?" Chris reminded, "We don't have time for this. Not to mention Calibur and the Megid are making their move again."
"Yeah, but there hasn't been any activity for a week," Touma said as a reminder.
"And you really think they're just sitting around doing nothing?" Chris asked, "What are you two doing, anyway?"
"What does it look like?" Tsubasa asked, "We're both preparing for that school event they're trying to drag you into. You should help too, Yukine."
Chris was surprised by this, "Why?!"
"You're going to get dragged into it sooner or later," Touma replied.
"Tagging along with us for a bit won't hurt, will it?" Tsubasa asked.
Chris simply gave a frustrated look, realizing both of them were right. It didn't take long for the art supplies to be fully gathered as the three made their way through the school halls.
"You know I thought you were around because of your whole tutoring job," Chris admitted, "Not this."
"I figured I'd help out a bit by running a book drive booth," Touma replied, "The school has its essentials but more books won't hurt to expand its catalog to what it was before."
"Of course you'd be doing that," Chris sighed.
"Speaking of tutoring though, did you need another session or do you think you've got it?" Touma asked.
"I'll ask you in a few days while I see how my schedule is," Chris replied, "I'm pretty sure I've got it but more help couldn't hurt. How's the dummy doing?"
"Better than she was when she first started, that's for sure," Touma said before giving a soft chuckle.
"I must admit it was an ingenious idea," Tsubasa admitted thoughtfully, "While my workload is slightly lightened, I was just barely able to come back from that mountain of work I had after I was out of commission, especially with the sudden shutdown of the school. Your brief assistance helped me greatly."
"Always happy to help," Touma gave a smile.
It wasn't long before Tsubasa found an empty classroom, opening the door, "I think we should be good here."
"If that's the case then I think I'll head back to get my sign finished," Touma said as he went to hand the bag to Chris.
"Really, ditching us already?" Chris asked, "Why'd you even come if you have business already?"
"Tsubasa sort of dragged me out for some fresh air," Touma admitted before looking over to Tsubasa, "Thanks for that."
"It's not an issue," Tsubasa said before looking over to Chris, "Yukine and I will get out of your hair so you can go, alright?"
"If you need any help just text," Touma said before giving a wave and heading off. He put his hands in his pockets while whistling. Admittedly Kento was still on his mind, but his brief excursion with Tsubasa definitely helped relieve some of that weight. He just hoped whatever answers he'd find would be enough.
"So where are the others?" Calibur asked.
He was currently with Storious in a fairly large closed room, it having a similar aesthetic to the one that was in Finé's mansion. Unlike the minimum furniture in that room, this one had several tables and bookshelves, and even a peculiar stained painting that was hanging off to the side. It even had an organ of all things against one wall.
"Currently making sure our other hideouts are prepared in the event we need to change locations quickly," Storious answered.
"I see, I should mention that it shouldn't be long before Dr. Ver's bait is taken," Calibur said, somehow aware of the doctor's plans.
"Perfect," Storious smiled, "Then I believe it's time you spoke more on Avalon."
"I agree," Calibur nodded, "With our new allies making their move and Saber now strong enough, I can work on acquiring that power. However…"
"Saber will not willingly open the gate to Avalon, nor does he know the location of where to go," Storious answered, "I believe I can help with that. But the bait will need to be made tonight."
"Very well," Calibur said as he turned away, "Do what you must."
"Of course," Storious gave a smile as the Left and Right Winged Ahiru Megid soon walked through the door, both of them crossing their arms. Storious turned with a smile, "It's time for you two to play your part."
Later that night
At the edge of town, the three Symphogear Wielders alongside Touma and Rintaro were all against the corner of an abandoned hospital. Tsubasa was currently taking the lead, holding up her communicator.
"Understand?" Genjuro's voice called through the communicator, "We need to put an end to this tonight!"
"I'm terribly sorry we called you out so late, especially for the girls on a school night," Sophia apologized.
"Don't worry about it. This is our duty as sentinels," Tsubasa explained.
"So those girls had their hideout right on the edge of town?" Hibiki asked.
"A good vantage point," Touma mused, "Especially so if they have a way to escape through the ocean easily."
"This hospital has been abandoned for a very long time," Ogawa said, "But various supplies have been flowing in, little by little, over the last two months. Unfortunately, that's about all we know, so we're heading in blind."
"Buster, Kenzan, and Slash are on standby," Sophia said, "Just remember it will take them a bit to make it to your position should you need their help."
"Understood, we'll give a heads up," Rintaro gave a nod.
"Well, if they're not gonna show themselves," Chris said before rushing to take the lead, "We'll just have to chase them out!"
Touma, Rintaro, Tsubasa and Hibiki soon began to run after her, the five heading for the first easily accessible entrance they could find.
Of course the presence of the five members of Section 2 wasn't undetected. The monitors in the main control room pulled out multiple camera angles of the five rushing into the hospital. And of course viewing these were both Kento and Dr. Ver.
"No way…" Kento trailed as he saw this, "How did they find us?"
"Section 2's a lot more resourceful than we give them credit for," Ver gave a calm response as he went to press a button, "Let's give them a warm welcome."
"We should run," Kento suggested.
"Unfortunately we have precious cargo," Ver reminded, "Even if we attempted to run we'd be forced into a fight not long after. If we're to maintain the advantage we need to strike first. You were put here to protect me after all."
Kento gritted his teeth, "Fine…"
A red gas soon began to erupt from the vents, slowly but surely flooding the hallways that the Riders and Wielders of Section 2 would come across.
"Wow, they're really setting up the whole "abandoned hospital" atmosphere," Hibiki admitted as she peaked around the corner of a door.
Chris wasn't as shaken though, giving a smug grin, "What's wrong? You scared?"
"That's not it!" Hibiki protested, "The air just feels so heavy…"
"It is rather unnerving," Rintaro admitted.
"I feel… inspired," Touma admitted.
Tsubasa glanced at him with a bored stare, "Really, now of all times?"
"What?" Touma asked, "I'm sorry if our lives make good inspiration alright?"
"You can write down notes for your book later!" Chris called out in annoyance.
"The welcoming party also got here quicker than I thought," Tsubasa narrowed her eyes as she looked ahead.
It wasn't long before the group could see a small batch of Noise making their way forward through the smoke. The five all moved forward into the hallway before readying their transformations.
"~Balwisyall nescell Gungnir tron~"
"~Imyuteus Ame no Habakiri tron~"
"~Killter Ichaival tron~"
"Henshin!"
[REKKA BATTOU! BRAVE DRAGON~!]
[NAGARE BATTOU! LION SENKI!]
Chris took the lead, giving a grin as she transformed her crossbows into their chaingun states.
{BILLION MAIDEN}
Chris' opening fire had managed to take care of quite a few Noise and clear the front slightly. Hibiki, Tsubasa, Saber and Blades all stepped forward, raising their weapons and hands as Chris switched back to her crossbows.
Green flashes could be seen however as more Noise began to form from the back of the crowd.
"These Noise…" Hibiki trailed.
"Yeah, someone's controlling them," Tsubasa confirmed.
"Then we must have found the one who's holding onto Solomon's Cane," Blades said.
"Tachibana, Saber, Blades, we need to give Yukine cover," Tsubasa said as the five rushed forward, "Don't let them slip behind her back!"
"Roger!" Hibiki, Saber and Blades all called out as they rushed forward.
While Saber, Blades and Tsubasa worked on cutting through the Noise, Hibiki went for precise and powerful strikes against the bodies of the Noise. Chris meanwhile backed them up with heavy fire with arrows from her crossbows. The group should have been tearing through the enemy forces, but it wasn't even an issue of more being summoned.
"What?" Saber soon noticed that some of the Noise near the Wielders hadn't been completely destroyed, most of them reforming from the hits. He gave a yell and slashed through one vertically before spinning and slashing horizontally, managing to completely destroy it, "Huh?"
"Ora!" Hibiki punched a Noise in its stomach, but the impact was so weak it only ended up forming a small hole in it to where it began to regenerate from it, "Huh?"
"What's going on?" Blades questioned as he began gathering water around his sword, spinning and sending several water slashes out that struck and shredded the Noise he was facing.
Tsubasa transformed her katana into its larger cleaver state, gathering energy and slashing forward.
{Blue Flash}
The Blue Flash was a direct hit, tearing through a group of Noise, but it wasn't strong enough either, a few of the Noise surviving and reforming from the edge of defeat.
Several Noise launched forward to push their advantage, becoming missiles that Hibiki batted away at first with kicks and punches before she leapt back. Hibiki however gave a gasp as her breathing became heavier, but it wasn't just her, both Chris and Tsubasa were starting to feel worn out as well.
"Why can't we do enough damage?" Chris asked.
"How are they not doing damage but we are?" Saber questioned as he stabbed through a Noise, unleashing fire from his blade and cutting through it.
Tsubasa raised her buster sword only for it to be forced back into its original state, her eyes widened as she felt her Gear weighing down on her, "The output of our Gears is dropping!"
"What?" Blades asked in surprise.
"Saber, Blades! We don't have visual but something's very wrong with the Symphogear Wielders outputs!" Sophia called through the communication channels.
"No need to tell us twice," Saber called out as he brought out Saiyuu Journey, "Rintaro!"
"Very well," Blades gave a nod and drew out Peter Fantasista.
The two prepared their Story Wonder Ride Books before drawing out their swords.
[NAGARE BATTOU! KAGAYAKU LION FANTASISTA~!]
[REKKA BATTOU! KISEKI NO SAIYUU DRAGON!]
As Blades took his Lion Fantasista form, the cloud of Saiyuu Journey flew out and spun around Sabers arm, forming the Saiyuu armor on his left side and transforming him into Saiyuu Dragon.
[REKKA NISATSU!]
[The Buddha's monkey meets and dances with the sword of flames!]
Blades gave a yell as he swung his left arm forward, unleashing the hook and chain and lashing out against the remaining Noise. Touma meanwhile flipped into the air, landing near the Wielders while extending out the pole on his left arm, swinging and striking through the remaining Noise.
"Are you three alright?" Saber asked.
"Not really but thanks for that," Chris admitted between heavy breaths before giving a frown, "How the hell are you all not affected?"
"Because Rider's don't sync with our Seiken like you all do with your Gears," Saber explained.
"Let us consider it a blessing in disguise," Tsubasa suggested.
Hibiki however noticed something out of the corner of her eye, quickly getting in front of Touma and slamming her fist into an approaching grey blur. The blur had had landed against the ceiling before launching towards them again. Tsubasa immediately went for a slash, smacking her sword against the creatures head and sending it backwards. To everyone's surprise, it didn't immediately get killed. The creature before them was the same that had been kept contained in the hospital, the Nephilim.
"You hit it head-on with your armed gear!" Chris called out.
"Then why didn't it crumble into ash?" Tsubasa questioned.
"Is it a Megid?" Blades asked as he raised Nagare up.
"It's too small to be one," Saber said as he kept Rekka raised, noticing how small the creature was.
"Wait, so it's not a Noise or Megid?" Hibiki asked.
"Then what is that monster?!" Chris asked.
Everyone suddenly got on guard further as they could hear clapping as someone approached from the shadows, a person that everyone was very familiar with.
"Dr. Ver?" Chris asked.
"Wait a second…" Saber trailed, remembering the reports of Dr. Ver going missing.
"You're surprisingly sharp," Ver stated as the Nephilim moved back to its cage, the cage auto locking itself.
"But… when the Iwakuni base was attacked…" Hibiki trailed.
"I get it," Chris narrowed her eyes, "Those Noise attacks were all orchestrated!"
"It was all rather simple, I assure you," Ver gave a pleasant smile before fixing his glasses, "By the time of the attack, Solomon's Cane was no longer in its case. I had concealed it underneath my coat."
"So to steal the Cane, you pretended to be attacked and went missing?" Tsubasa asked.
"Alongside the Book of Ruin," Chris gritted her teeth, "Let me guess, you also took that didn't you?"
"It's a very valuable Relic, one of the greater pieces of the fabled Great Book," Ver explained, "I couldn't just leave it on its own."
"Just what do you plan on doing with it?" Saber questioned.
"There's so much to be gained from looking further into it," Ver said as he brought out Solomon's Cane and summoned another set of Noise, "As for the Cane… calling Noise forth from the treasury of Babylon and controlling them is something only it can do. And the one most suited to wield the Cane right now is me! Don't you agree?"
Chris glared, "Of course not!"
Ver said nothing as he pointed the cane forward somewhat, the Noise beginning to march towards the Riders and weakened Wielders.
Chris meanwhile wanted to get this over with, getting so hasty that she went for one of her special attacks, her skirt armor extending to reveal missiles. That was until she suddenly felt a sharp pain, launching out missiles for Mega Deth Party only to scream out as the missiles began unleashing wildly all over the place.
"Chris!" Saber called out before everyone was engulfed in fire and smoke.
Genjuro and Sophia could only watch in concern as they had pulled up the readings for the three Symphogear Wielders alongside their two Riders. While Saber and Blades were alright, the Wielders status was deteriorating due to the sudden drop in sync rates.
Ogawa and Daishinji were both in the control room as well, the two watching with concern as they saw the status of the Wielders.
"With the lowered sync rates, the Gears are placing great stress upon their users!" Aoi called out.
"I need transport ready," Genjuro stood up as he began to fix the coat he wore, fully putting it on, "Ogawa, Daishinji and I will go out and support the Wielders!"
"No, it's too risky to send all of us out without assessing the situation," Daishinji protested, "There's something off about what's going on."
"What do you suggest?" Genjuro asked.
"I'll stay behind just in case, you two go," Daishinji replied.
"Slash, are you certain?" Sophia asked.
"I am," Daishinji replied, "Something's wrong."
"But won't you able to use Bremen no Rock Band to help their sync rates?" Ogawa questioned before Daishinji suddenly held up the mentioned Wonder Ride Book towards him.
"I'm not the only one who can use this book," Daishinji said, "Remember that."
The explosive burst of missiles had caused a gaping hole in the wall of the abandoned hospital. A blob of Noise slid backwards before dissolving, Dr. Ver revealed to having used the Noise themselves as shields.
Thankfully the Wielders and Riders managed to make it out alright. Despite the missiles going all over they were unharmed, well, except for Chris who was currently being helped out by Tsubasa.
"Damn… Why do I feel like I got hit by those missiles?" Chris hissed out.
'If we were to use a more powerful technique in this state, the recoil from our Gears might even kill us,' Tsubasa thought as she realized what had happened.
"Huh?" Hibiki soon heard humming before seeing a floating air transport Noise taking off with the cage the Nephilim was housed within, "One of the Noise is carrying away that cage from before!"
"Rintaro, let's go," Saber said as he brought out Storm Eagle.
"You won't be going anywhere!"
Thunder suddenly howled as lightning struck near them all, Espada soon stepping out of the flash as he raised Ikazuchi forward.
"K-Kento…" Saber paused.
"You…" Rintaro hissed out.
"Doctor I'd suggest standing off to the side," Espada replied, "I can deal with them."
"If you insist," Dr. Ver raised his hands but kept grip of Solomon's Cane before stepping back, he glanced back towards the fleeing Nephilim, 'That's one problem out of the way. I suppose I can observe the situation here carefully since young Fukamiya's here.'
"Tachibana! Apprehend the doctor and take care of Yukine!" Tsubasa ordered as she set Chris down, "Saber, Blades, I'll leave Espada to you."
"No you don't!" Espada was ready to rush forward when he quickly tilted his blade, blocking slashes from both Saber and Blades.
"If you wish to fight us then you shall!" Blades called out.
"And once we're done here you're going to have a lot to answer for!" Saber yelled.
Tsubasa gave a nod before leaping past Espada, soon rushing after the Noise carrying the cage, 'With the superior mobility of Ame no Habakiri, I can still make it!'
Of course the chances of that happening were starting to seem slim as the Noise had just managed to make it clear of the land, meaning Tsubasa would have to jump over the ocean. And that was no easy feat…
"Keep going! Jump for it, Tsubasa!" Sophia called out.
Tsubasa kept her pace as she gave a questioning look, "Jump?"
It wasn't long before a missile suddenly shot out of the ocean, it curving towards the ground only to reveal it to be hollow as the paneling around it gave way. Launching out of the hollow missile were both Buster and Kenzan, the two landing before running to help with the battle near the hospital.
"Keep going Tsubasa!" Buster ordered.
"Jump out over the sea! You'll never be alone!" Kenzan instructed as he ran past.
Tsubasa gave a nod as she realized what Section 2 was planning, keeping her top speed before leaping off of the unfinished road that she was running along, leaping out over the sea. Her ankle blades acted as boosters, allowing her a small boost towards the Noise but she slowly but surely started to plummet.
Sophia's voice could soon be heard, "Temporary HQ, rapid ascent now!"
Suddenly the tip of a massive submarine breached the ocean surface, Tsubasa landed on the tip before jumping upwards and off of it. As she did the submarine fell and landed against the water with a splash.
Tsubasa used her boosters to launch higher and slashed once she was close enough, cutting through and destroying the Noise. The cage then began to fall down towards the ocean, Tsubasa diving for it and reaching her hand out.
A spear had suddenly shot down out of nowhere, knocking Tsubasa away and sending her down into the water with a splash. The spear meanwhile didn't hit the ocean, an invisible force allowing it to over with its tip downwards.
Buster and Kenzan both stopped their advance and turned in shock, "Tsubasa!"
Hibiki was ready to try and apprehend Ver when she saw what had happened, "Ah, what happened?!"
"Quack!"
"Huh? Whoa!" Hibiki quickly stepped backwards, the Right and Left Winged Ahiru Megid's landing where she was. Hibiki's eyes widened, "The Megid from before!"
Meanwhile Maria had landed on the spear and caught the cage, keeping her balance as the sun rose behind her, creating a stunning image.
"It's that girl!" Chris called out.
"Looks like our reinforcements have arrived," Espada said before quickly kicking back and leaping away from Saber and Blades.
"Just in time, Finé," Ver gave a smile.
Everyone suddenly turned towards the doctor in shock.
Chris was in disbelief, "Finé?"
"It means 'the end'." Ver explained, "It is a name borne not only by our organization but also by the girl you see before you."
"Wait, do you mean she's…?" Hibiki trailed.
"Yes, a newly awakened, reborn Finé!" Ver exclaimed.
Storious meanwhile was walking towards the sounds of battle, approaching from deeper in the city as he held a black thick book in his hands, "Now then…" He grinned before noticing something towards the side in front of him.
He quickly summoned a sword that split into two blades towards the tips, blocking a strike from the Mumeiken Kyomu as he was currently assaulted by Kanade who was wearing her hooded cloak.
"Oh?" Storious gave a chuckle before yelling out, unleashing a dark burst from his weapon as he managed to force his assailant back.
Kanade gave a gasp as she was sent back, landing and stumbling back as her hood was thrown off, unveiling her identity to Storious.
"You…" Storious trailed as he saw who was before him, "You're…"
"You won't be going another step," Kanade spoke up, throwing her cloak back to reveal the Bladriver was on her waist before going to insert Kyomu into it. She then drew out Eternal Phoenix and opened it up before slotting it into her Bladriver's book slot. She gripped her sword before drawing it out and reeling back before spinning and slashing forward.
[BATTOU! ETERNAL PHOENIX!]
The Eternal Phoenix Wonder Ride Book landed behind her before a fiery orange phoenix launched outwards, flying towards Storious and forcing him back before returning towards Kanade. The phoenix circled around her before she donned the armor of Falchion.
"Well now…" Storious smiled as he saw the transformation, but kept a relaxed stance as he dismissed his sword entirely, "I can use this to my advantage…"
To Be Continued…
Author's Note: Huh, you know Kanade seems to have a thing for ending the chapters in a dramatic fashion. Speaking of Kanade though, we do have an introduction for her boss of sorts, Master Logos. Also fun fact about his setup, it's basically the same setup as the villains from Garo Versus Road. Felt it was a good way to subtly show that he's a bit different in terms of ranking compared to his canon counterpart.
I did this on my other main story but I figured I'd do it here. And that's the reminder that I do have a twitter account for my writing that posts every now and again via memes or small tidbits and will post updates as soon as I post a new chapter. It's Zero's Workshops (at sign)ZeroEnchiladas on Twitter. Thanks for reading and I'll see you next time.