Rider Time Zi-O: Roze from Remnant
Chapter 94 – The Spark of Revolution
A spotlight shined down in a blackened room, Ironwood soon walking into the shadows from behind it and standing in the spotlight, arms behind his back. He leaned forward, somewhat stepping out of the light and allowing some shadows to cover him. He cleared his throat before speaking in a disturbingly calm manner.
"I have always promised to defend this Kingdom. Its technology, its future, from those who would see it destroyed. I figured it would be simple, especially when close allies brought help in the form of what could have been Atlas' crowning achievement, my very own Kamen Riders. But they were selfish and chose to side with a city that would never be able to offer itself to the world like Atlas can and will starting today."
He then raised his right arm, holding up the Zi-O Anotherwatch in his hand.
"But do not worry Mantle, as you will be able to offer yourselves to the world as my new army. For you see, I have gained the power of something that rivals a Kamen Rider. Thanks to the Time Jackers, Atlas' place as Remnant's savior has been ensured via the Another Riders."
[ZI-O!]
The Anotherwatch was activated as he placed it near his waist, the dark wisps and corrupted watch-like rings circling around him before shattering and revealing his Another Zi-O form. He spread his arms out, as if basking in his own glory and ego.
"I am the King of Another Riders, Another Zi-O, and already have my army of Another Agitos prepared. In fact I plan on having the students of Atlas Academy alongside the population in Mantle turned into Another Agitos to fully complete Atlas' crowning achievement. Salem may still be outside of Atlas, preparing for her next move. But I will tell you all that her next move will never come. I will eradicate her with my newfound powers and then I will work on quelling any chaos left on Remnant."
He then placed his arms behind his back as he leaned forward, the face of his Another Rider form shrouded in the shadows.
"I will begin both developments shortly, for tonight will not be a night of rest for Atlas. Once everything is under way, I expect that we will be waking up to a new Remnant from tomorrow onwards."
Woz was currently staring at the message utilizing his book, slamming it shut as he stared forward. He was currently at the center of the entrance hall of the Schnee Manor. Everything was dimmed around him but what could be clearly seen was a crowd of numerous people. Next to him was Tsukasa though he was also dimmed and dulled out like the rest.
"I will keep it short this time," Woz stated as he held up his book, "As it is written in this book, Sougo Tokiwa embarks on a path which will lead him to become the overlord of time, Oma Zi-O. Ironwood has made his statement, and with everyone now aware of it and what our plans are… it is time to begin our counterattack to finally bring about Remnant's new era."
The area began to grow brighter as he finished, but even then it was still dark as it was fairly deep into the night at the moment. Tsukasa looked around at everyone, both him and Woz facing the crowd before them.
"Our dear General has given his response but we've had time to make our preparations," Tsukasa clapped his hands a few times before gesturing to everyone, "I think it's time to get this show on the road."
Behind Tsukasa and Woz, an Aurora Curtain formed before it began shrinking and splitting apart into multiple ones. The two Riders exchanged a brief smirk as they watched everyone prepare themselves.
Remnant – Atlas Academy, Auditorium
The students of Atlas Academy were all wondering what exactly was going on. Every student's Scroll that was connected to the net was disconnected shortly after Salem unleashed Briar Rose. And after a while there was an eventual announcement to gather at the main auditorium that was usually reserved for school assemblies. Despite this some students chose not to go, simply hiding out in their rooms but that didn't matter much as there was still a large amount of students gathered. Ironwood had made sure to cut access off completely when it came to the Scrolls, already knowing how irrational his students would act if they knew his plan in advance. So he simply made sure they didn't hear his message.
There were a few people who were curious as the students began to chatter a bit, like Team FNKI.
"So what do you think this is about?" Neon asked.
"Not sure, but I'm really not liking the vibe here," Flynt admitted as their two other team members, Kobalt and Ivori, nodded in agreement.
Of course before much more chatter could be heard, everyone was starting to turn quiet as Ironwood began to make his way onto the stage. Harriet, Elm and Vine were not far behind him and stood at attention while he walked up to the podium. The stage behind them was covered up as well, the curtains that would cut off the front of the stage from the back still closed. Swartz was not around this time however, as he had mentioned needing to check on a few stray issues and left any spare Anotherwatches with Ironwood himself.
Harriet glanced towards Vine who had given an audible sigh, "Want to say something?"
"Just thinking back to how we got to this point," Vine admitted.
"It's not like we had much of a choice," Elm reminded, "The situation pushed us into doing this."
"You're absolutely right," Ironwood turned towards his operatives, "I'd rather not resort to this, but for the sake of Remnant's future, I will do whatever it takes."
"I believe that's just about everyone gathered," Harriet noted as she looked up at the mostly filled up assembly hall.
"Good, then let's get started," Ironwood said as he walked over to the podium and cleared his throat, tapping the microphone a few times, "Hello everyone, I'm sure you're all wondering why you're gathered here today."
There were a few murmurs but everyone was relatively quiet.
"Because of the current calling that Atlas needs to heed, effective immediately, all students are transferring into military service," Ironwood said as he heard the various gasps and yells from all the confused students, "I know it may seem daunting, but you do not need to be afraid. You all will become the strongest versions of yourselves when you become Another Riders!"
The curtains behind him soon opened up to reveal several Another Agito clones in docile states all standing around before moving forward as the students began to back away while screaming and yelling out.
"Do it," Ironwood said, narrowing his eyes at the unruly students.
The Another Agitos all growled out before leaping upwards to pounce at the students.
"Stay!"
The Another Agitos all froze in the air before an icy blue flock of small Nevermore's shot forward, slamming into the Another Riders and sending them backwards and against the stage as the students began to back away further while also clearing a path. Winter and Marrow walked forward through the cleared path, the two staring defiantly at their former superior.
"So you chose to come back, traitors," Ironwood said in a bitter tone.
"The only traitor here is you," Winter said with narrowed eyes, "You've betrayed Remnant for siding with the Time Jackers."
"And this idiotic coup you're about to attempt will only ruin Atlas' future as the savior of Remnant," Ironwood said before bringing out his Anotherwatch, the remaining Ace Ops preparing theirs alongside him, "You were foolish to come here alone."
"Who said we were alone?" Winter asked as she threw her arm back, glyphs appearing at and smashing the doors open.
It didn't take long for more people to enter as more students began to back off and make way for them. A few students had even slipped out of the now open doors to get a head start in trying to run and hide.
Jaune, Nora, Ren, Qrow and Robyn all walked out from one door while Tsukuyomi, Godai, Gentoku, Alain, Poppy, and Takatora all walked out of another one.
"Sorry to say, but we're absolutely serious about this," Robyn said, her usual jokey expression gone.
"We're taking Atlas back from you," Qrow said, "And you don't have a say in it."
"I knew that if I was going to face you I'd need help," Winter admitted, "That meant making sure we had more than enough people for this operation."
"So this is how it's going to be," Ironwood said before activating his Anotherwatch, "Very well!"
[ZI-O!]
[FAIZ!]
[BLADE!]
[GAIM!]
Another Zi-O gave a growl, kicking the podium off the stage as he held up a hand, the Another Agitos all growling and leaping at the mass of students. A few of them managed to land on some students and began converting them as screams and panic overtook the auditorium. Thankfully with the doors busted wide open, it was somewhat easy to start bolting towards an exit. Despite this, thanks to the Another Agitos taking initiative, more and more students were transformed into the clone army.
"You all need to run now!" Marrow called out as he drew out Fetch and began shooting at the Another Agitos, "Because I'm pretty sure you don't want to turn into monsters!"
"Hide if you need to, fight back if you need to," Winter said as she drew out her sword, sending out fireballs from Glyph's to knock a few of the Another Agitos around, "But you don't need to get involved in this madness if you don't want to!"
"Let's get going, everyone," Tsukuyomi said as she readied her transformation alongside the other Riders, all of them nodding.
"HENSHIN!"
[KAMEN~ RI~DER~ TSUKU~YOMI! TSU-KU-YO-MI!]
[CROCODILE IN ROGUE! ORAA!]
[NECROM! MEGA ULORD! CRUSH INVADER!]
[OTEME WA ITSUMO TOKI MEKI CRISIS!]
[SOIYA! MELON ARMS! TENKA GOMEN!]
Tsukuyomi stood alongside the five other Riders, all of them adopting their stances before charging forward alongside the Huntsmen and Huntresses.
Another Zi-O watched as the Another Agitos charged towards the Huntsmen and Riders, a big brawl breaking out as a result. It wasn't long before Another Faiz, Blade, and Gaim leapt past him to join in on the fray. He held out his hands, summoning his guns, Due Process, before taking aim at Winter who stepped forward despite the chaos, pointing her sword at him.
"Even if I don't get the entire student body, I still have Mantle," Another Zi-O said as he sent enhanced energy blasts at Winter who dashed towards the side. He quickly spun to avoid chunks of ice being launched out of Glyph's towards him, "With all the time between my announcement and now, I already have automated forces en route to secure my new army."
"You're still single minded your approach," Winter called out as she used a Glyph to leap towards him, slashing at him with her blade clashing against his raised arms, "Did you really think we'd leave Mantle defenseless while dealing with you?"
"What?" Another Zi-O asked with a growl as he swung his arms back, forcing Winter to stagger back before shooting at her, the only thing protecting her being several stacked glyphs that shattered almost instantly from his enhanced shots.
Remnant – Mantle Streets
Ironwood had a simple plan when it came to turning Mantle into his army, he'd have his Mantas drop the remaining Atlesian Knight turned Another Agito's near the Crater. With the amount of Riders likely helping Mantle out near The Crater, he couldn't risk them taking down his forces mid-air. So he dropped what forces he could spare throughout the city, all of them meeting up and forming a horde while making their way to their next objective.
However when it came to The Crater, it was never intended to be defenseless as there was already a line of Riders outside and standing in a line between the Another Agito clones and the people of Mantle.
Ryuki, Faiz, Chalice, Kiva-la, Proto Birth, Beast, Kanon Specter and Snipe all stood together in their base forms, readying their respective weapons. These eight Riders were planning on holding the line while the others were inside to help in case evacuations needed to take place.
"If he thinks these things are going to get past us, he's wrong," Snipe remarked as he raised his Gashacon Magnum.
"Yeah, we aren't letting these guys through," Proto Birth said as he slung his Birth Buster over his shoulder.
"If Mantle can't offer itself to the world like he thinks it can't then so be it, we'll still protect it regardless," Faiz said, crouching forward before running towards the Another Agito clones alongside Kanon Specter, Chalice, Beast and Kiva-la.
[STRIKE VENT!]
Ryuki meanwhile brought out his Dragclaw, launching out fireballs while Proto Birth and Snipe shot at the incoming Another Agito army. Their attacks hit and forced the army to slow down as the Riders charging forward began assaulting them at close range.
Remnant – Monstra
Salem was currently tapping her fingers against her throne. She had been at this for several hours ever since the defeat of Briar Rose. And despite attempting to call or beckon for Narutaki, he had yet to answer any of her calls. She could at least realize he was being brutally honest when it came to only giving her two assists. But she also realized that she had squandered her only opportunity to deal with the thorns in her side. That was until Monstra let out a loud groan, her attention looking up as she saw a green speck flying towards her flying fortress Grimm.
She quickly called a Seer, connecting it to Monstra directly and using it to enhance the vision of her whale, zooming in and seeing Penny flying towards her.
"You were foolish to come here alone, puppet," Salem narrowed her eyes.
"Oh she's not coming here alone."
Salem's eyes widened as she heard the familiar grating voice, and she was so caught off guard she spoke loud enough in response, "No…"
"Yes."
An Aurora Curtain formed as Tsukasa exited it with Summer, the two having their Decadriver and Roseiber at the ready.
"You…" Salem narrowed her eyes at Summer before giving a smirk, "Come to nearly die again?"
"My mistake last time was facing you alone," Summer spoke up, undeterred by the Grimm Queen's taunt, "This time we're facing you together."
"Besides we can't have you interfering with Penny's role," Tsukasa held a hand up.
"Her role…?" Salem asked before suddenly noticing the speck of green immediately move towards the side as if trying to go around Monstra, "So that's your plan…" she trailed as she placed a hand on her Seer, "The puppet is attempting to cause disarray on the inside, subdue her so that we can claim our victory here and now."
Tsukasa and Summer could only watch as the Seer lifted itself up and floated off in a rushed pace towards the door, floating through before the door closed behind it.
"Now then," Salem said as she stared down the two, holding up her hand that held the strange ring that Narutaki had given her, "I think it is time I rid myself of you pests once and for all."
"Like we'll allow that," Summer said as she drew out her Kamen Ride Card.
"By the time dawn breaks, you'll be defeated," Tsukasa added as he readied his own Kamen Ride Card.
"And just who do you think you all are to be making claims like that?" Salem asked.
Summer smirked, "We're passing through Kamen Riders…"
"…Remember that!" Tsukasa called out as he pointed forward.
"Henshin!"
[KAMEN RIDE: DECADE!]
[KAMEN RIDE: ROSE!]
The two stood still as their transformations took place, the grey holographic armoring overlapping on their bodies and fully forming the armor of Kamen Riders Decade and Rose. The two looked at each other before nodding, shouting and rushing towards Salem who awaited their approach.
The two punched forward in tandem, only for a sudden white barrier with red glyphs to form, blocking their attack and pushing their fists back. The two stepped back in surprise, Rose drawing her Roseiber and slashing while Decade went for a kick. Despite this the barrier was formed again and the two were forced to step back.
"What?" Rose asked.
"This isn't a video game," Decade let out a frustrated growl, "Why is there a barrier here?"
"One added gift when Briar Rose was created," Salem smiled as she held up her ring, "That card of yours held traces of your Silver Eyes. I've heard them once said to be the power to protect. Well… I've had a sample of that power twisted in order to protect me."
"Just great…" Rose muttered.
"Well we can't back down now," Decade dusted his hands off before drawing out his Ride Booker, "We need to keep this up."
Penny meanwhile made her way over towards the side docking area of Monstra, lowering herself and landing on one of the platforms. Waiting for her on the platform were Geiz, Emerald, Oscar and Ruby, the three having arrived via Aurora Curtain a bit earlier.
"Salem should be confronting Summer and Tsukasa right now," Oscar said as he walked forward with everyone else.
"Then we need to make sure they don't get interrupted," Geiz cracked his knuckles.
"Right, it's time for our job," Ruby said before looking over at Emerald, "No funny business, alright?"
"Like I said, I only stuck around because of Cinder," Emerald replied with raised hands, "And I could care less about her anymore. But there is still something I need to do here which is why I volunteered for this part to begin with."
"Then I suppose it's time we grab their attention," Geiz said before pointing at a wall, "Let's do this."
"Right," Penny said as she brought out Floating Array, gathering them in front of her and aiming them forward as she began to charge for her beam cannon. She also activated her magic, summoning storm clouds above her and using it to charge her weapons up further. At the peak of the charge she shouted and pushed her hands forward, a beam of energy striking through fleshy wall after fleshy wall and creating a makeshift shortcut path through the massive Grimm.
This didn't go unnoticed as Monstra loudly wailed at the sudden cutting through its flesh and insides.
"Alright, let's get moving," Ruby said as she ran forward through the path Penny had made, the others following after her as they made their way towards the center hallways. Various Grimm howls caught their attention as it was clear they had also agitated any Grimm that had currently inhabited the beast.
"Okay," Oscar said as he looked around, "What do we want to do next?"
"OZPIN!"
"And I suddenly regret that statement…" Oscar trailed nervously as he looked down one of the halls to see Hazel at the end, glaring at them and specifically him.
"You have some nerve coming here of all times," Hazel gave a glare as he began to stomp forward.
'Well this was part of the plan…' Ozpin reminded.
"Doesn't mean I have to like it," Oscar muttered.
"He isn't laying a hand on you," Geiz said as he stepped forward and prepared his Ridewatches.
"Out of my way," Hazel said as he stopped advancing before noticing who was with them, "Emerald?"
"Hazel…" Emerald said in a low voice as she didn't try to look at him.
"You got out," Hazel said, clear confusion on his face, "Why come back?"
Emerald sighed, "I-"
"Well what do we have here?"
Ruby and Emerald turned to see Mercury walking down from the other side of the hallway they were in.
"Mercury…" Emerald said as she stared at her friend.
"You really decided to come back after all this?" Mercury asked, "Would've thought you'd pickpocket them and run away."
"I'm here to get you out of here," Emerald glared at her old partner in crime, "It's for your own good."
"Sorry to say but it's too late for that," Mercury got in a fighting stance before noticing Ruby taking the lead, "Huh?"
"Sorry to say but I want a bit of payback," Ruby let loose a light glare as she recalled the night of the Fall of Beacon, how Mercury had stopped her from reaching the stage in time to stop Penny and Pyrrha's match, "So if you're making this hard then I'll gladly accept."
"Ruby…" Penny muttered.
"We'll be fine, just keep wrecking shop," Geiz called back.
"Yeah we'll deal with them just fine," Ruby agreed as she drew out the Silver Roze Ridewatch.
Penny gave a nod before running off, preparing Floating Array as she went to continue her part of the plan. As she got further away, both Geiz and Ruby's voices echoed throughout the Grimm whale.
"Henshin!"
[RE-VI-I-VE GORETSU~! GORETSU!]
[KAMEN RIDER~! (RIDER~!) SILVER! (SILVER!) SILVER~! ROZE!]
Remnant – Atlas Academy, Auditorium
"You Riders aren't so tough!" Another Faiz called out as she used her speed Semblance, zipping around and managing to strike at both Necrom and Tsukuyomi a few times to catch them off guard, "I'll finish this quickly!"
"Your arrogance is astounding," Necrom scoffed as he got back to back with Tsukuyomi, the two drawing their weapons in their gun forms.
"You really shouldn't underestimate us," Tsukuyomi said, "Me especially…"
"Maybe before," Another Faiz said as she began to run around them at high speeds, growing faster and faster as the red lines on her armor began shining red and leaving trails, "But with these powers enhancing my speed there's no way you can stop me!"
Necrom and Tsukuyomi both watched as Another Faiz circled around before realizing they still had one more blind spot. The two quickly rolled away from each other just as Another Faiz slammed into where they were standing from above. Tsukuyomi quickly held her hand out, freezing Another Faiz in place.
Necrom shouted as he began shooting at Another Faiz, Tsukuyomi doing the same.
Another Faiz could only gasp out, sparks flying heavily as she was struck by the blasts. She gave a growl, ready to speed up again before an explosion happened near her feet, sending her on her face.
"Sorry, can't have you running around too much," Robyn said, having used one of her explosive bolts. She then yelped, dodging out of the way of an Another Agito before kicking it back, "Jeez you all are feisty!"
Another Gaim meanwhile was quick to summon a twisted and corrupt zanbatto, slamming it down at Jaune who blocked with his shield.
"Just give up quietly," Another Gaim said, "I'd rather not do this."
"Then you shouldn't have shown up," Jaune gritted his teeth as he boosted his Aura to help him hold the sword back.
Ren slid into view, launching out the blades of his weapon via their wire cables towards the Another Rider's hands. The blades struck and forced Another Gaim to let go of the weapon, Ren shifting and pulling to wrap his wired blades around the sword before tossing it aside.
"What?" Another Gaim gasped.
"You can stop," Ren called out, "You don't have to do this."
"Sorry but it's too late for that," Another Gaim said as he leapt up into the air, summoning Thorn and shifting it into its active shuriken mode. He then spun and threw it towards Ren who braced only for Rogue to leap in at the last second, the crocodile themed Rider kicking Thorn back and sending it slamming into the Another Rider.
Rogue grunted as he clutched his right hand tightly, purple glass-like energy forming as he leapt towards Another Gaim who had been staggered. Rogue then slammed his energized fist into the Ace-Op turned Another Rider, sending his opponent flying backwards.
"Vine!" Another Blade called out as she saw this before gasping as she was assaulted by grenades, the explosives forcing her to take a few steps back.
"Hey!" Nora called out as she rushed in, transforming her weapon into its war hammer form and slamming it against Another Blade's stomach, "Eyes on me!"
"You want to play, fine," Another Blade gave a yell as she grasped the hammer and began charging electricity before unleashing it against Magnhild to send straight into Nora.
Nora gasped as she let out a light yell, feeling her Semblance power-up but realized that Another Blade was going to try and overload her again, "BRING IT!"
"Chou-Henshin!"
Kuuga leapt in, his red Mighty Form changing to the bulkier Titan Form. He quickly grabbed onto Nora and Magnhild as the electricity began flowing through him as well. Electricity began crackling on his armor before it shifted further into Rising Titan form, the armor fully turning purple as the trimming became gold.
"Nora, let's go!" Kuuga called out.
"On it," Nora yelled out as they pushed further, turning the electricity briefly against Another Blade and sending the Ace-Op turned Another Rider staggering back.
"Alright, no more Ms. Nice Operative," Another Blade growled out before summoning the corrupted Blay Rouzer, it crackling with electricity as she stepped forward.
"Hey Kuuga," Qrow called out as he batted away an Another Agito, planning on getting to Another Zi-O when he had stepped on the discarded sword that was Another Gaim's, "Take this!"
Kuuga looked down and saw Qrow kick the sword his way, gripping the blade he began charging his power through it, shifting its form into that of the Rising Titan Sword. He then stood with Nora, the two nodding with each other before bracing right as Another Blade charged.
Winter shouted as she leapt up into the air, slashing down at Another Zi-O who blocked with his right arm. She quickly drew out her secondary blade, stabbing at Another Zi-O who stayed where he was, it striking against his neck with a few sparks flying but not much else.
"Even with the enhancements you're not doing much," Another Zi-O said before he gave a yell, forcing his arm forward and sending Winter staggering back. He then rushed forward, swinging at Winter who leapt back, "Winter, you're making a mistake! I am sacrificing everything for the sake of Remnant!"
Winter landed on a wall, using a glyph to keep her stuck to it before she leapt to the side when she was blasted at. She summoned several glyphs, forming ice chunks that launched at Another Zi-O and managed to hit, causing him to take a step back. She then landed, quickly using a repulsion Glyph to slide her away from an incoming projectile.
"No, you have sacrificed everyone else!" Winter yelled out as she used her Glyphs to launch forward, slashing and clashing with Another Zi-O in a back and forth, "You closed the borders, you squeezed Mantle until it broke, and you've willingly become a puppet of people who desire Remnant's destruction!"
"Shut up!" Another Zi-O yelled out as he continued to charge at Winter, getting in a clash as he tried to point his weapons at her through her holding them back with her swords, "I have only done what's best for Remnant, and no one is grateful!"
Winter gasped as she pushed the guns away before backing up, but was too late as Another Zi-O had managed to aim quickly sending enhanced blasts that grazed the sides of her biceps. She winced as her Aura flickered while smashing could be heard as the blasts had torn up parts of the exo-suit she was using.
"No one will ever be grateful to a tyrant, smartass!"
A crow flew over before transforming into Qrow, already having Harbinger out in its scythe formation. He began twirling it around, trying to overwhelm Another Zi-O who was forced to back up. It wasn't long before Zangetsu and Poppy rushed in past Winter to help out as well.
"Take a quick breather," Poppy suggested as she ran past.
"We'll cover for you!" Zangetsu gave a nod.
The two closed in just as Another Zi-O kicked Qrow away, Zangetsu raising his shield and blocking the blasts that came his way with his shield while Poppy ran behind him. Poppy then leapt over Zangetsu, spinning and kicking Another Zi-O directly in the face.
"You have all this power yet you make people suffer!" Zangetsu called out, "Those of us with power should use it to help others!"
"And we shouldn't use it to control others!" Poppy called out as well, "I heard what you nearly did to that poor Polendina girl!"
"Penny was nothing but a failure, a machine that I could never control," Another Zi-O growled out, "Likewise, what good are those below me if they won't fall in line?"
"Why you…" Poppy hissed slightly and drew out her Bugvisor Zwei in its chainsaw mode, rushing in alongside Zangetsu, the duo slashing in tandem at Another Zi-O.
Another Zi-O tried shooting at them but Zangetsu deflected his blasts via the Melon Defender. Slowly but surely he was overwhelmed, due to both Riders immediately making his guns near useless because of the pressure they were putting on him. It didn't take long for him to lose both of Due Process, the guns sparking and clattering to the sides as he was struck in the chest, sparks flying as he staggered back.
"Sorry Jimmy but you aren't going any further!" Qrow called out as he rushed in from the side while Poppy and Zangetsu split up, approaching from two other angles.
"This world… Remnant doesn't need Riders like you all protecting it!" Another Zi-O yelled out as he slid his hand across his makeshift Driver.
[ANOTHER BREAK!]
He summoned twin swords, the signature weapons of Another Zi-O, before slamming them down. Cracks began forming outwards before exploding with energy, catching the Hunstman and Riders in it. Yells were heard as Qrow was slammed onto his back, his Aura flickering while sparks flew as Poppy and Zangetsu were sent rolling back, losing grip of their weapons.
"But first, I need to deal with the one who betrayed me the most…" Another Zi-O said as he began to move towards Winter, dragging his swords along the ground.
Winter lightly gasped before feeling her grip slacking on her weapons. Her hands were shaking at this confrontation. She could only softly chuckle as she looked down, sighing before steeling herself. She yelled out and raised her blades, slashing at Another Zi-O.
Another Zi-O's front mask began to shimmer as projections of clock hands formed in front of his eyes. He soon saw Winter attack alongside all of her movements and let out a cruel scoff. He began blocking and countering Winter's strikes, forcing his former right hand on the defensive as he grew more forceful in his attacks. It didn't take long for him to strike at Winter's hands, forcing her to drop her weapons before working on tearing off the remaining portions of her exoskeleton with his blades.
Winter gasped out as she was completely overwhelmed, soon screaming as she struck by both blades. The remaining pieces of her exoskeleton began falling off of her while her Aura had been torn through, shattering as she fell to her knees. Everyone began to pause and slow down as they heard and saw this, everyone except for Zangetsu who realized that Winter needed some kind of protection and fast.
"I honestly wasn't hoping it would come to this," Another Zi-O said as he raised his right sword up, "Do you have any last words?"
"Not yet…" Winter muttered in a near daze.
"Very well then," Another Zi-O raised his right blade further up, "This is goodbye."
[MELON ENERGY!]
[LOCK ON!]
"Winter, you need to live!" Zangetsu called out as he had drawn out his Genesis Driver and Melon Energy Lockseed, loading the Lockseed into the Driver and tossing it over, "Use it!"
The Driver was thrown, clattering near Winter who bolted slightly when she realized what had been tossed her way. Quickly leaning forward and grasping it she placed it on her waist, the silver strap forming as the white/black golden trimmed suit of Zangetsu-Shin formed over her body. She stood up as the blade slammed into her now protected right shoulder.
"What?" Another Zi-O gave a light gasp as Winter had grabbed his arm with her left hand.
"I won't die here," Winter said, giving a glare as she kept hold of Another Zi-O's arm. She then used her free hand to grip the Genesis Driver's pump, "Not when I still have to rebuild this Kingdom after this battle finishes. For the sake of Remnant's future I will keep fighting… Henshin!"
[SODA! MELON ENERGY ARMS!]
Japanese themed techno music blared out as the Melon Energy Armor landed on her shoulders before spinning around, releasing a juicy shockwave that forced Another Zi-O to stagger away from Winter. The armor part unfolded before transforming Winter fully into Zangetsu-Shin.
Zangetsu-Shin watched the HUD of her helmet inform her of various technical aspects of the suit. She managed to catch them clearly as she summoned the Sonic Arrow, pulling back on the weapon and unleashing a semi-powered up arrow.
Another Zi-O had crossed his arms to block only for the arrow to break through his defense, forcing him back. He then gave a gasp as he saw Zangetsu-Shin rushing towards him, moving to block and attempt to counter her incoming slashes.
"It's time for our counterattack," Zangetsu called out.
"Right," Poppy and Qrow both nodded as they fully stood.
Remnant – Monstra
Salem let out a light gasp as Monstra began to shake and rock, glaring as she steadied herself.
"Sounds like Penny's doing a good job," Decade said as he kept his ground.
"Looks like it," Rose gave a nod.
Salem quickly grasped at her throne, sending a pulse through Monstra as the giant Grimm began to shake further. The cloudy front of the bridge/throne room soon cleared up to show that Monstra was moving forward and upwards.
"Huh?" Rose looked back.
"Just what's your game?" Decade asked.
"I will not allow you to win this without some loss," Salem held a gentle smile, lifting herself off the ground via a twister, magical energy gathering in her hands, "I will merely crush Atlas Academy with my dying Grimm and then wrestle the Relic from the debris."
[KAMEN RIDE: EX-AID!]
Decade had form swapped into Kamen Rider Ex-Aid, bringing out numerous Item Blocks all around. He leapt up and smashed into one.
[SPEED UP!]
Becoming a yellow blur he began bouncing from item block to item block while striking at Salem. Of course his attempts to hit her had been stopped by the barrier, scraping past or bouncing off of it as he tried to break through it.
[WEAPON RIDE WIZARSWORDGUN!]
Rose meanwhile had brought out the signature weapon of Wizard in its sword mode, summoning a Flame Style ring to her fingers before scanning it on her weapons open palm.
[FLAME SLASH STRIKE!]
Rose spun and sent a wave of fire outwards, the fire crashing against the barrier before petering out. The Huntress Rider narrowed her eyes behind her mask before she quickly rolled out of the way, Salem tossing magic blasts her way.
Salem then looked around before spreading her arms out, magic being unleashed all around and breaking apart the item boxes. (D)Ex-Aid gave a yelp as he had just bounced off of the barrier only to have nothing to land on. He quickly spun in mid-air before landing on a knee, reverting back to Decade form.
"Your foolish attempts won't work," Salem said.
"There has to be a limit to that barrier," Rose muttered.
"We can do this all day," Decade boasted.
"Coward, stop hiding!" Hazel yelled out as he punched forward, his punch being caught by Geiz who used Goretsu's strength to force it away, "Stop hiding behind this lackey and that kid!"
Geiz scoffed as he was punched in the chest, barely feeling anything. He then gave a yell and kicked Hazel in the stomach, managing to force the brute back.
"You think I'm Ozpin's lackey," Geiz said as he hadn't even brought out his weapon yet, "That's a laugh."
"Hazel you need to stop this!" Oscar called out, "I understand your feelings but with the way things-"
"If you understood my feelings then you'd bring out Ozpin and have him face me himself!" Hazel called out.
"Fine then," Oscar said after feeling an invisible nudge, closing his eyes before opening them. They flashed before he adopted a different stance.
"Hazel," Ozpin spoke up as he walked up and stood beside Geiz, preparing Long Memory, "The way this is going, Salem is going to lose."
"You all really think you can beat her?" Hazel asked as he let out a pitiful laugh, "Salem can't be stopped, she's a force of nature and I've seen it firsthand."
"You say that but she isn't!" Ozpin called out, "Salem can be fought! And unless she brings the Relics together, which she physically cannot anymore, she poses no true threat to Remnant!"
"You say that but she'll find a way, just like she can come back from anything," Hazel remarked, "It's too late to back down now. She'll create a new world order, no Kingdoms and no Huntsmen Academies."
"Do you really believe that?" Geiz asked.
"He does and he's a fool for it," Ozpin sighed as he shook his head, "If Salem gathered all four Relics there will be no world left at all. The only thing she wants out of this all is the sweet release of death."
"That would be one way to do it," Geiz remarked, recalling the flashback Jinn had shown them detailing the Relics, "But at the cost of everyone on this planet. Which none of us are letting happen."
"And you're both fools for thinking that Salem can be stopped," Hazel growled out as he ripped his shirt off, beginning to jab his shoulders with various Dust Crystals, glowing cracks spreading from them and scarring his already scarred body, "When she came for me, I killed her over and over again. The longest she was gone was only a few hours before she put herself back together."
"So you just gave up when she offered you sweet words," Geiz spat out before looking to the side, summoning his Zikan Jaclaw before facing Hazel once more, "Pathetic…"
"What did you say?" Hazel asked as elemental energy crackled in his hands, he gripped them tightly as the elemental energy spread further.
"You saw her power and gave up," Geiz replied, "Like I said, pathetic."
"How dare you…" Hazel gave a glare before rushing forward and reeling his left arm back as rock armoring coated his fist and forearm, fire erupting from it.
"That's it, focus on me," Geiz muttered before giving a yell and moving forward, reeling back his left arm and punching with his saw, clashing with Hazel's punch.
"Mercury you idiot," Emerald called out as she kept back from Roze's and Mercury's fight, wanting to try and talk to him while Roze worked on wearing him down, "Will you just leave Salem already?!"
"Sorry but I'm not stupid," Mercury called out as he kicked at Roze who defended with Silver Crescent in its spear formation. He then gave a light gasp as his leg was forced down, quickly leaning back and dodging a thrust from Roze, "You hear what the big guy just said? He couldn't kill her so he got in line!"
"Come on, do you really think that killing Salem is the only way?!" Roze called out as she rushed in while twirling her weapon, slashing and stabbing at Mercury, "There's a difference between stopping and killing!"
"And you still can't stop her!" Mercury called out as he managed to avoid the strikes before performing a few kicks, firing off several rounds from his boots, Talaria. His attacks had managed to work, managing to disarm Roze of Silver Crescent, "Cute new weapon kid, but this is-"
He was cut off when he suddenly had Crescent Rose aimed at his stomach. Roze immediately pulled the trigger before he could react, sending several blasts of energy straight into Mercury's abdomen. He could only yell out as he was thrown backwards, slamming against the floor as his Aura shimmered.
"If you really thought I'd let you get close you're wrong," Roze called out as she dismissed Crescent Rose before kicking Silver Crescen up and catching it before twirling it and holding a hand forward as she held it behind her, "I'm not the same girl I was back then."
"You're really pissing me off…" Mercury hissed out before the area shook violently.
"Geiz, it's time we move locations!" Roze called out, "It sounds like Penny is doing enough damage now!"
"On it," Geiz said as he began to back away from his fight with Hazel.
Remnant – Atlas Academy, Auditorium
Another Zi-O didn't exactly like the potential outcome of the battle he was dealing with. With Winter joining in as Zangetsu-Shin, he was slowly being pushed back by her, Zangetsu, Poppy and Qrow. Despite this, the Another Agitos were still able to keep their numbers and grow steadily as his Ace Ops managed to keep most of the Huntsmen and Riders occupied. This also resulted in several Another Agitos had managed to slip out from the Auditorium, heading deeper into the school to convert more students into Another Riders.
Another Faiz was trying to move around quickly, using Another Agitos as cover as she went to strike at Necrom and Tsukuyomi a few times. Kuuga meanwhile was trying to overpower Another Blade with Nora while Robyn provided potshots wherever she could with Rogue going to take out a few of the Another Agitos
"This all ends here!" Another Gaim called out as he threw his arms out, sickly green Aura forming from his arms as he extended them out into projections of hands, managing to grab Jaune and Ren, squeezing tight, "All those opposing us drop your weapons lest your friends pay the price!"
"That's enough!" Tsukuyomi yelled out as the entire room became a tinted green, everyone being frozen in time by her. She then shook her head and walked towards where Another Gaim was, loading in the Gaim Ridewatch.
[FINISH TIME! GAIM JINSOKU SHOOTING!]
She took aim before firing two orange bursts of energy on a delay. The first hit Another Gaim and coated him in a fiery orange shaped prison before the second hit, the prison breaking and opening up as if being sliced before exploding.
Time resumed for everyone as they soon turned towards the explosions they heard and caught out of the corner of their eyes. Vine coughed out as he was slammed against the ground, having lost his transformation as the Gaim Anotherwatch clattered to the ground and shattered.
"Why you," Another Blade yelled out as she unleashed a dark pulse, forcing both Kuuga and Nora backwards. She then brandished her weapon, electricity charging in it as she walked towards Tsukuyomi, "You'll pay for that!"
"You're going down kid!" Another Faiz yelled as she leapt up into the air.
"No," Tsukuyomi held her hand out and froze Another Faiz in mid-air while preparing the Blade Ridewatch, switching her weapon to its sword mode.
[FINISH TIME!]
Another Blade shouted as she ran towards Tsukuyomi before bringing her massive sword downwards.
[BLADE JIGOKU STRIKE!]
Tsukuyomi used her small and nimble frame to slip past the Another Rider's attack and defenses. Electricity crackled off of her blade, energy coating and extending it as she struck Another Blade in the gut. She shouted as she slashed past, the elongated electrical blade piercing Another Blade and causing an explosion.
Elm gave a groan and fell forward out of the smoke, the Blade Anotherwatch clattering to the ground and shattering as she fell unconscious.
"Now then," Tsukuyomi turned towards the still frozen Another Faiz.
"Hey watch out!" Kuuga suddenly yelled.
Tsukuyomi turned and gave a gasp, the combined naginata form of Another Zi-O's weapons spinning towards her. She quickly threw herself to the ground, the time around Another Faiz resuming as a result.
The clock themed naginata returned to Another Zi-O who ran over to Another Faiz, "That wasn't good. You nearly lost your powers."
"I'm sorry sir," Another Faiz apologized.
"Don't be, we need to embolden our defenses," Another Zi-O said as he gathered energy in his weapon, "So let's retreat for now."
"Whatever you say, sir," Another Faiz nodded.
Another Zi-O yelled out, unleashing energy strikes outwards to force everyone in the area to dodge out of the way. By the time everyone was able to get their eyes back on where Another Zi-O was, they could just barely see him running out of the auditorium with Another Faiz.
"Crap, we can't let him run!" Qrow called out as he shifted into his crow form and flew off.
"Hey wait, it's too dangerous!" Tsukuyomi called out as she ran after him.
"I'll back you two up," Kuuga said as he began to run after them, shifting back into Mighty Form.
"Alright," Robyn called out as she kicked an Another Agito away before blasting another in the face with an explosive bolt, "Start rallying the students, keep mowing these suckers down, and start taking back key spots in this Academy! Our revolution isn't over yet!"
"You heard her!" Zangetsu-Shin called out as she took aim and began shooting arrows to strike at the Another Agitos. The Huntsmen and Riders there all cheered in response as they moved forward to continue the fight.
Remnant – Atlas Military Prison
"Just what is going on?" Watts questioned as he looked around, "They haven't checked up on us in ages."
"Who cares if they do or not," Tyrian said as he had managed to mellow out a bit before punching the bed he was sitting on, his knuckle getting bruised, "If it's not the damn brat that got me in here I don't care."
"Ah yes, from what you described he's the same one giving James issues," Watts said as he fiddled with his mustache.
"Well if it's Ironwood getting issues then I could care less," Jacques sighed as he went to lay down, "Seriously… I thought for sure by now I'd get out."
"You seriously haven't realized it have you?" Watts asked, "Atlas is currently at war with Salem, do you really think they'll have time to care about someone like you?"
"Like I can tell what's going on from in here," Jacques huffed before sighing, recalling all the muffled sounds of war, "Okay fine… that maybe did dawn on me…"
"Do not worry, for soon your pitiful existence will be over," Tyrian gave a chuckle, "Once our grace finishes her conquest, she will send this floating rock plummeting to the ground. What a beautiful end…"
"I highly doubt that."
BOOM!
A sudden explosion occurred near the door, Atlesian Guards being thrown into the room as the wall around was blasted apart, destroying the main camera as a result. The resulting burst had also managed to damage Watts' cell wall, the Hard-Light Dust failing as he now had an exit.
Walking through the smoke and rubble were Finis and Cinder, the latter of which having a brown cloak which covered the left half of her body.
"Cinder…?" Watts asked in surprise before noticing who she was with, "Who is that?"
"They're a Time Jacker," Cinder said with a smirk, "You should be aware of the group, after all Finis said that Swartz had met with you briefly."
"So you're a part of that group," Watts narrowed his eyes as he stood up, "Clearly you want something, right?"
"We could care less about you," Cinder said as she walked over, holding out the Quiz Miridewatch, it holding a corrupt Aura, "But we do want to give you a chance to cause some chaos."
"What do you mean?" Watts asked as he took the Miridewatch.
"It's not long before both Ironwood and Salem fall, so we might as well speed things up," Cinder replied as Finis began making their way towards Tyrian's cell.
"You dare mock her grace?" Tyrian gave a glare towards Cinder.
"I dare, because I'm not allied with Salem anymore," Cinder smirked, "And really, she already abandoned you two by leaving you to rot in here. I'm simply giving you all a chance to cause some much needed destruction."
"I accept, so long as you don't get in my way," Watts said.
"Oh come now Arthur, I would never get in the way of your revenge however petty it may be," Cinder had a near mocking smile as she said this before frowning, "However I know plenty of people who can, so you better use those smarts."
"I'll take that as a challenge," Watts said as he activated the Miridewatch before its dark aura began wrapping around his hand before spreading throughout his body.
[QUIZ!]
Dark wisps wrapped around the disgraced Atlesian's body before he gave a yell and transformed into Another Quiz. The Another Rider flexed his fingers a bit as he felt the power surging through him. He could only chuckle to himself before walking out of the room.
"Now then…" Cinder turned towards where Tyrian was.
Finis gave a nod and slammed their palm against Tyrian's Cell, shattering the Hard-Light Dust and freeing the scorpion Faunus.
Tyrian immediately gave a yell and tried to pounce at Finis only for the Time Jacker's cape to lash out and wrap him up in it. Tyrian began to scream and yell out as he tried to break free only to be unable to.
"You're perfect for this one," Finis chuckled as they drew out the Kuuga Anotherwatch before shoving it into Tyrian's chest.
Tyrian glared as he was let go before rushing after Finis who began dodging around his attempts while making their way towards one of the walls. The scorpion Faunus gave another yell as he charged forward, dark wisps surrounding his body as the transformation completed just as Finis had vanished. The result was Tyrian transforming into Another Kuuga while smashing through the wall and breaking out of the building itself, falling down due to the prison cells being high up.
"J-Just what is going on…?" Jacques asked in fear as he was currently backed near the safest corner of his cell he could find.
"Nothing that concerns you," Cinder said as Finis reappeared near her, she then began to walk off, "So be a good little businessman and look pretty while sitting there."
Finis could only smirk before following after Cinder, "Now then, let's work on replacing that arm of yours."
"I was wondering when we'd finally get to that," Cinder admitted.
Remnant – Atlas Academy
"Sir, where exactly are we going?" Another Faiz asked.
"Clover was brought to the medical wing, right?" Another Zi-O answered with a question of his own.
"He was," Another Faiz gave a nod.
"Good," Another Zi-O said.
The two were still in their Another Rider forms as they hurried through the now chaotic halls of Atlas Academy. There were Another Agitos all around, trying to convert students and now staff to their army, and while some tried to fight back, others stuck to running and hiding.
"Are we planning on waking him up now?" Another Faiz asked, a bit of hope in her voice.
"Yes," Another Zi-O drew out an Anotherwatch, that of Another Ex-Aid, "If anyone's going to turn the tide in our hour of need, it's him."
"You're right," Another Faiz gave a nod.
The two entered the medical wing, heading for the furthest bed when they paused. Clover was already up, shaking his head as he seemed somewhat groggy. He was also moving his arm around as he checked to make sure everything was in order.
"Clover…?" Another Faiz asked.
Clover looked up before giving a light gasp, quickly standing and getting in a defensive stance.
"Wait, Clover," Another Zi-O held up his hands as he dismissed his transformation alongside Another Faiz, "It's us."
"General Ironwood, Harriet…?" Clover asked as he raised an eyebrow as he saw his Leader alongside one of his squad mates, "What's going on?"
"Too much," Ironwood shook his head, "A rebellion has broken out and is threatening my rule. I came here to hopefully get you the help you needed. If we're going to stand a chance at crushing our enemies then we need your help."
"I see…" Clover said as he went to sit down again, "I actually woke up a while ago, figured I'd get my bearings and wait for someone to show up."
"I see," Ironwood said before holding up the Ex-Aid Anotherwatch, "This is for you, courtesy of the Time Jackers."
"I'm sorry but I'm going to have to refuse," Clover shook his head.
"If it's because you just woke up don't worry," Ironwood reassured, "The power it gives will make up for that."
"No sir," Clover said as he stared directly at his leader, "I refuse."
"Clover, what's going on?" Harriet asked.
"Why are you refusing?" Ironwood asked with a frown, "We're at war and we need everyone we can get."
"Well you can discount me from that," Clover said, "I respected you sir, and this is what happens while I'm knocked out? You conspire with the enemies that were trying to cause distrust among us and Mantle to gain more power?"
"Hey now," Harriet stepped up, "He had to-"
Ironwood cut her off by raising his hand, giving a light glare at Clover, "What exactly are you trying to say?"
"Specialist Schnee asked me what I'd do if any of our fellow officers became monsters," Clover said as he stood up and got in a defensive stance, "And while you may have had good intentions, you're too far gone to be keeping your position. I was hoping that it was just a few slipups but if both you and Harriet…"
[ZI-O!]
"I see," Ironwood sighed as he transformed into Another Zi-O before chuckling, dropping the Anotherwatch and crushing it with his foot, "Fine then, if you're not with us you're against us."
"Sir…?" Harriet asked.
"It seems we were mistaken to come here," Another Zi-O said, "Harriet, it looks like it's up to us to take control of the situation."
"Harriet, don't do this," Clover warned.
"Sorry, but I've already come this far to protect Atlas," Harriet said before dark wisps surrounded her, "And I'm about to stop!"
[FAIZ!]
"And I'm not going down without a fight," Clover said as he got in a defensive stance since he was without his weapon.
Another Zi-O was ready to move forward when a black blur moved past him, Qrow suddenly appearing in front of him and shooting him in the face with Harbinger's gun. The Atlesian General gasped out as his vision became blurry, staggering.
"You," Another Faiz called out with a glare and punched at the Huntsman, "Won't you buzz off!"
"Sorry but I'm not about to let you all go," Qrow glared as Harbinger shifted to its sword mode, managing to block the punch but staggering back near Clover.
"Qrow…?" Clover asked in surprise, "How did you-"
"No time," Qrow glared at the Another Riders as he raised his sword up, "But I'm glad to see you're up."
"Sorry I took so long," Clover said before sighing, "And sorry about everything else."
"As long as you realize what's going on then we're cool," Qrow replied.
"You need to stop running off!" Tsukuyomi shouted as she was now at the entrance of the medical wing.
Another Zi-O glanced back and forth, "Three of you won't-"
[KUUGA!]
The wall nearby was suddenly shattered as Tyrian in control of Another Kuuga busted through with a laugh. Clover and Qrow quickly backed away as Another Kuuga landed near where they had been standing.
"This power is incredible!" Another Kuuga howled out as he was a medium sized Another Kuuga that while still big, wasn't as giant as the one Tid used.
Another Faiz backed up, "How the hell is he an Another Rider?!"
"Damn it, what's going on?" Another Zi-O questioned before bringing out both of his swords and combining them, gathering energy in them before unleashing it outwards.
Another Kuuga yelled out as he was struck by the attacks, Tsukuyomi throwing herself to the ground while Qrow tackled Clover down.
"Harriet, we're leaving!" Another Zi-O yelled.
"On it," Another Faiz called out as she grabbed onto Another Zi-O before lifting him slightly. She used her Another Rider powers to charge her Semblance even further, the red lines flashing silver before they became a blur that slipped out of the room and zoomed through the halls.
"That hurt… but didn't…" Another Kuuga began to laugh as he picked himself up, before noticing Clover and Qrow, "I might as well have some fun while I'm here… especially with you two…"
"Not on my watch!" Kuuga yelled out as he rushed into the room leaping forward and kicking against Another Kuuga's head before kicking off and landing on a knee.
"Ah, that hurts!" Another Kuuga yelled out as he staggered back before noticing Kuuga's armor, "What disgusting armor…"
"I could say the same," Kuuga hissed out, "I'll deal with this!"
"Not alone," Qrow said as he aimed Harbinger forward.
"I'll second that," Clover said, "I may not have a weapon but I'll still help out wherever I can."
"Well we could use your good luck," Qrow chuckled before looking back at Tsukuyomi, "We'll handle this, stop James!"
"On it," Tsukuyomi said before getting an idea, quickly bringing out her Zikan Girade Tsu and the Kuuga Ridewatch, "Clover, catch!"
Clover caught the weapon and Ridewatch, "What?"
"Use those to finish the job!" Tsukuyomi called out before running to head off, "Good luck!"
"Like we'll need it," Qrow remarked, "Shouldn't be too hard to use, right?"
"It's simple but I can work with simple," Clover said as he raised the Zikan Girade Tsu, aiming it in its gun mode at the Another Rider.
Another Kuuga stared at his opponents before shouting with glee, "Good! I'll slaughter you all!"
Remnant – Monstra
Decade and Rose leapt backwards from several magic blasts, their most recent attempts to strike at Salem having proved ineffective.
"We're making absolutely no progress…" Decade remarked with a sigh, "Just what are we supposed to do?"
"As worrying as this is for the next phase…" Rose said in a low voice, "We just need to keep this up and hope that the others are on time with their plans."
"Honestly…" Salem gave a smirk as she lowered herself, dismissing the tornado and putting her hands behind her back, "Normally I wouldn't mind having to regenerate from attacks but the amount of damage you Riders can do is sickening."
"Thanks for the compliment," Decade said.
"Take this seriously," Rose sighed.
"So this barrier is definitely beneficial to me," Salem continued, "Now then, how about we-"
"GET BACK HERE!"
[REVI-I-VE SHI-PPU! SHIPPU!]
An explosion of fire, ice and electricity occurred, blowing open the door as a blue blur sped through alongside silver rose petals. It didn't take long for Roze to slide near the two elder Riders, Emerald in her arms while Geiz appeared near them, Oscar wrapped underneath his arm with Ozpin currently in control.
"Never do that again," Emerald gave a groan as she was set down.
"This is so humiliating…" Ozpin sighed as he was set down.
"You…" Salem narrowed her eyes at Emerald before looking over at Ozpin, "And my dear Ozma…"
"Ma'am!" Hazel called out as he rushed through the door with Mercury, "Are you alright?"
"Quite," Salem said, "Seems as though they've been causing you trouble."
"Yes," Hazel gave a nod.
"Don't know why you decided to run here," Mercury gave a smirk, "You're clearly out of your mind if you think running here helps you."
"Honestly we just needed to meet up again," Roze chuckled, "Right, Tsukasa?"
"Yep, we've set the stage," Decade said as he glanced back, Monstra slowly but surely approaching the top of Atlas Academy to try and ram into the main tower and crush the school in the process, "I'd say we're ready to start."
"What is the meaning of this?" Salem narrowed her eyes.
"The point of this intrusion was never to beat you," Geiz called out, "It was to give Penny enough time."
As he said this Monstra shook further despite being on its steady path.
Penny yelled out as she unleashed her full powered beam from Floating Array down a hallway, Grimm having come to try and stop her. She then tilted her weapon upwards, slicing through the ceiling. She had been doing this several times, using her Maiden powers to carefully recharge and supercharge her weapons to keep them from running out.
"Alright, I do believe that is enough," Penny put her hands on her hips before looking down the hallway, "Good luck everyone."
With those words she aimed Floating Array again, unleashing another beam of energy that tore through another portion of Monstra and led outside. She then activated her boosters before flying through the makeshift hall and out of Monstra before initiating a call on her Scroll.
"Penny, did everything go well?" Sougo asked.
"It did," Penny saluted, "What is next?"
"Head to Atlas Academy and help everyone there," Sougo said, "They could use some backup while the rest of us will handle Salem."
"Got it," Penny said as she began to set course for Atlas Academy.
Remnant – Atlas Academy, Ironwood's Office
Another Zi-O quickly rushed out of the elevator and towards his office, planning on using the main control terminal there to take direct command of the Another Agito clone army. Another Faiz jogged after him, wondering exactly what the General was planning now that they were backed into a corner.
Another Zi-O yelled out, using his Another Rider strength to tear off the dented security doors that had been partially pushed open ever since the fight between RWBY and the Ace-Ops. After that was done he walked further in only to pause.
"Sir…?" Another Faiz asked before noticing he was staring out the window and also pausing, "Sir…"
"We need to get up to the roof now," Another Zi-O said as he turned and hurried out of his office, "There's a staff only elevator that will take us up, we need to get there now!"
"R-Right…" Another Faiz gave a nod as she followed after him.
What had shaken the two up was them seeing Monstra high up, heading straight for Atlas Academy. Of course as soon as they exited to the side to get to the staff elevator, one of the main elevators opened up.
Another Quiz waltzed out the elevator through the hallway, flexing his fingers as he had stopped by the holding area for prisoner weapons and finding his rings. While he only had one set now, he figured his new form would allow him to enhance them greatly as he evenly distributed them across both hands.
As he looked around he soon saw that there was no one around before noticing that Ironwood's office was wide open. Without anyone around he was able to just walk inside, pausing at the sight that caused the Another Riders to run. He could only give a light scoff at Monstra approaching, noticing it visibly smoking likely due to someone doing heavy damage. He decided to ignore that however and moved towards the headmaster's desk.
"Now then…"
He tapped a few buttons on the desk, electrical shocks being seen as various holographic screens popped up. He began navigating his way through the system, using his knowledge and new powers as he worked to find the source of the Another Agito Army. With a few keystrokes on a holographic keyboard and a confirmation noise he sat in the chair and put his hands behind his head.
Remnant – Monstra
"Looks like we're just about ready for Sougo's part," Decade said as he stepped forward with Geiz, the two holding their weapons up.
"And what do you two think you're going to do?" Salem asked.
"Give us enough time for this," Roze said as she dismissed her transformation alongside her mother.
Summer nodded and held out her hand, Ruby clasping it as both soon closed their eyes.
Salem's eyes widened as soon as she saw this, quickly summoning Glyphs all around the two, Shadow Hands erupting from them to ensnare the mother and daughter. Ozpin hopped back, pressing down on the Long Memory's handle, the gears in the cane glowing gold as an energy barrier formed around him and the Rose family, blocking the Shadow Hands from striking at them.
"Stop them!" Salem yelled out as she launched bursts of magic out, Decade and Geiz using their weapons to deflect them to the sides.
Hazel and Mercury rushed forward, planning on either running past or beating their way through the two Riders while Ozpin kept the barrier held up.
Both Mother and Daughter squeezed each other's hand before opening their eyes wide, both sets of silver eyes shining brightly as the area was engulfed in a blinding white light.
Remnant – Atlas Academy, Tower Rooftop
"What's the plan?" Another Faiz asked as the elevator finally arrived at the roof.
"I'll use the power of Another Zi-O to destroy that monster," Another Zi-O said as the doors opened, walking out before he stopped, giving a light gasp at what he saw, "You all…"
Sougo was accompanied by Woz, Weiss, Blake and Yang, the five looking at the incoming Monstra before turning when they heard footsteps.
"General Ironwood," Sougo said as he looked over.
"So that's why you were nowhere to be seen," Another Zi-O said before shaking his head, "Just step out of my way Overlord, it's time for me to show everyone what my new power is capable of."
"Sorry to say but you don't know me if that's what you'd think I'd do," Sougo said as he turned to face the incoming Monstra that was nearly hovering above them, he drew out his Zi-O and Trinity Ridewatches, "I aim to become a King and Kamen Rider, and saving this world is just one more step closer to that dream."
[ZI-O!]
[ZI-O TRINITY!]
As he slotted both Ridewatches in, he began turning the dial for Zi-O Trinity. The Ridewatch called out Geiz and Woz's name, the star of Regulus shining bright even in Remnant as it once again sent down beams of light, one for Geiz which was aiming itself at Monstra while the other hovered over Woz.
"Henshin!"
[TRINITY TIME!]
Bright beams of white light suddenly began piercing through Monstra before a flash occurred, most of the Grimm being turned completely to stone minus the gravity dust all over it. Despite this, without its sentient movement, the giant Grimm began to drop down towards the Academy.
"What?" Another Zi-O gasped out.
Sougo gained his base form of Zi-O, the beams from Regulus transporting Geiz over to him in his strap watch form while Woz was transformed before everyone else. The two attached to his shoulders before combining with the base Zi-O suit and the gold rings that circled around, creating Kamen Rider Zi-O Trinity.
[MITTSU NO CHIKARA! KAMEN RIDER ZI-O! GEIZ! WOZ! T-RIN-I-TY~! TRINITY!]
"Weiss," Zi-O called out as he crouched down.
"On it," Weiss summoned a Glyph underneath Zi-O's feet, the Rider launching high up into the air before initiating his finisher.
[FINISH TIME! ZI-O! GEIZ! WOZ!]
Zi-O kicked upwards, projections of base Zi-O, Geiz and Woz following after him before combining with his body and coating him in their energy. He yelled out as he slammed his foot into the Gravity Dust on Monstra's underbelly. Cracks began to form on the Dust itself, with energy flowing into them as rings of katakana and hiragana shaped in the visors of Zi-O, Geiz, and Woz began to spiral around the gigantic stone beast.
In that instant an Aurora Curtain opened up to the side, Hazel and Mercury tumbling out of it as it slid back to reveal Tsukasa, Oscar, Emerald, Ruby and Summer.
[TRINITY TIME BREAK BURST EXPLOSION!]
Zi-O let loose a final yell as he pushed further, the cracks grew further and further before the Gravity Dust shattered. Numerous gravity filled explosions began to rock throughout all of Monstra as a result. The combined Rider soon dropped down towards the rooftop, landing as Monstra exploded further, shattering into millions of pieces of stone debris as the area now had a purple tint to it, similarly colored electrical shocks being seen from time to time.
The debris of Monstra didn't drop immediately, the Gravity Dust explosion causing an anti-gravity zone to occur around the tower of Atlas Academy, debris floating around in a spherical shape while also floating inwards and towards the center.
Nearly everyone was watching in awe or surprise at this sudden occurrence, that was except for Another Zi-O. The General could only look around the area with dread as he realized that Sougo had set the stage for the final battle that would decide Atlas' fate.
To Be Continued…
Next Time:
"This'll do nicely."
"This is our one chance!"
"You will not hurt anyone anymore!"
"There's something I need to tell you."
"I am done playing these childish games…"
Chapter 95: Clashes in the Shattered Sky
Author's Note: Alright, so not much to say here other than we've fully started up the final battle. Most of the pieces are in place, and we've already covered a few fights which resulted in a couple of people being knocked out of the battle already. I will say though that giving Zangetsu-Shin to Winter is my way of 'making up' for her not being able to claim the Maiden Powers this time. Normally this would leave Takatora without a power-up, good thing I decided to do the Zangetsu Stage Play to introduce Kachidoki.
Remember that I've got a twitter, 'Zero's Workshop' with the handle of ZeroEnchiladas. If you want to have updates on when chapters drop and view the occasional random tweet from me since I do post more than updates there. When this Saga is over I might even do a behind the scenes thread there on things that changed in the Saga. But that's not the only thing I've got to shill because I do want to remind everyone that Roze from Remnant as a TV Tropes page. Feel free to check it out and edit it if you have something you want to add.
With all of that out of the way, thanks for reading and I'll see you next time as we continue onwards through the final battle.