Sympho-Saber: Song of Swords
RXU:EP05 – Price of Failure
Kanade let out a low yawn as she was currently sitting on her apartment's windowsill, staring out at the city in front of her as she had a glass of water in her hand. It was already fairly late in the day and she had basically spent it alone in her apartment. Despite the fact that there were no current missions or issues going on with SONG or the Megid, she couldn't help but worry. This concern was so great that she hadn't really decided to head out recently while also declining any invitations to hang out from the others. This current worry wasn't directed at their recent battles though, but more towards herself.
She thought back to the Ousama Megid incident, in particular the fights she was a part of. Sabela was coming at her in full force and she wasn't able to get an advantage against the Swordswoman. Of course what didn't help was when she tried to fight Legeiel and it became a three way fight in which she was barely able to do anything later.
While she tried not to let it get too to her, the fact that everyone wanted her to hang back during the final moments of the mission did annoy her. But it did make sense the longer she mulled about it. Falchion wasn't exactly the strongest Kamen Rider when it came to those who wielded Seiken. And despite having a similar Driver to Saber, Blades and Espada, its functionality was far more limited.
"Jeez…" Kanade chuckled as she recalled one of her only solo missions which involved Gjallarhorn, "Just like back then… I couldn't really do much without help."
Thinking back on that mission, she had confronted the now labeled Phantom Megid like normal after it had started a scare. Of course even when the fight first started she knew it was going to be tough due to the Phantom Megid's high regeneration shrugging off her opening attacks.
Then a lone young man that seemed only a few years older than her jumped in, donning fancy and incredible gold armor that made him look like a Kingly Kamen Rider. She was grateful for his assistance since she didn't have any intentions of dying at that point. And she did recall a brief conversation she had with him, asking him what exactly he was supposed to be.
"What's your whole deal?"
"I'm not exactly there yet… but I want to be a King and a Kamen Rider."
"Not sure what any of that means… but keep at it, I'm sure you'll get it done some day."
Kanade's thoughts couldn't help but linger from the conversation, her mind now relating how she was back when she fought with a Symphogear to her time currently as Falchion. Back with Gungnir, she could only last so long due to needing LiNKER, and even then her abilities and attacks weren't as potent as Tsubasa's. Now as a Rider she was only so strong thanks to Falchion's strength only being able to reach so high compared to others like Saber and Blades.
Her lack of strength aside, it was only the core of her worries as that had spiraled out into an entirely new but important question that Kanade was now consistently wondering.
"Why am I still alive?" she asked herself again as she stared at the glass of water before going to down it, letting out a sigh as she lowered the glass, "What am I supposed to do now that I've been given a second chance?"
Daishinji was currently in the SONG workshop, though only he and Miku were in as Elfnein was currently on the main bridge still trying to decipher the data chip that Ver had left.
The swordsmith had been fairly impressed by Miku's progress ever since she started training. He had to admit that when it came to her being a blank slate, she still picked up combat rather well. There were theories he had but he decided to go on the idea that Miku was just that adept of a learner for now.
Though upon thinking of adept learners he was surprised to see how well Touma was able to pick up his practices. The fact that Touma was able to utilize a technique that was only just learned against Storious only hours later was definitely impressive. He also recalled how it felt to clash against Rekka, there definitely being some resonations with its wielder.
His thoughts began to shift more towards Touma as he worked on maintaining Suzune, but let out a soft smile as the thoughts of the swordsman of flame sparked an old memory of his grandfather.
'When he who lights the raging fire unites with the first Seiken ever forged by man… the stars themselves will align their powers, and the Seiken that will lead this story to its finale shall be born!'
He recalled the Kakyokuken Sympho Saber and how it was born from the resonations between the Seiken and Symphogear. Sadly the sword had quickly broken apart after its usage, likely because it was haphazardly brought together and used in a desperate moment. But that moment did remind him of his grandfather's tale just like how Touma had made him think of it now.
"You've been staring at Suzune for a while," Miku noted as she walked over, "Is everything okay?"
"Yes," Daishinji nodded as he held the sword in his hands and looked it over, "Just recalling a story my Grandfather would tell me while I watched him forge."
"That sounds like a nice memory," Miku smiled.
"It is," Daishinji nodded, "I was reminded of it briefly back when we had fought Cinema, when we created a new Seiken even if it was only for a brief moment."
"Interesting," Miku said as she looked over to where Ikazuchi was hanging, "Do you think that Ikazuchi resonated with me back then too? Or was it only because of Kento's…?"
"Now that's hard to say," Daishinji admitted, "Though Seiken can pass hands quickly, resonations like yours are special cases."
"It's likely you were always meant to wield it."
Daishinji and Miku both yelped as Yuri was standing at the doorway with his arms crossed.
"Y-Yuri…?!" Miku let out a yelp as she began to look around, "H-How long have you been there?"
"Just long enough to catch this part of your conversation," Yuri pointed at the hanging Ikazuchi, "Though I've already known since I've laid eyes on you recently."
"Wait…" Miku paused in shock, "Seriously?"
"You were able to tell without any evidence?" Daishinji questioned.
"Of course, I am a Seiken myself after all," Yuri answered confidently as he entered the room, "As such I am granted certain abilities. One such ability is being able to easily sense the resonations between Seiken and the Swordsmen or Swordswomen they belong to."
"Fascinating…" Daishiji trailed in awe.
"And that's how you were able to tell?" Miku asked.
"Very much so," Yuri nodded before giving a thumbs-up, "The bond between you and Ikazuchi is quite splendid. It's the highest compatibility I've seen of someone using that Seiken."
"What about me?" Daishinji asked.
"To spare repeating details… the current roster of Riders SONG has are likely the strongest that will exist in history for quite a while," Yuri explained, "Each Rider resonates greatly with their Seiken in a level I haven't seen before… and possibly will never see again."
"Incredible," Miku admitted in awe before shaking her head, "Wait a minute, Yuri!"
"Huh?" Yuri tilted his head at this.
"I need you to keep this a secret," Miku said as she realized she couldn't have Yuri talking constantly about this, "At least for now."
"I am unsure as to why you're keeping this great news a secret," Yuri said as he crossed his arms, "However I will respect your wishes, especially since it seems as though your training is still ongoing."
"Thank you," Miku bowed.
"With that out of the way however," Daishinji carefully set Suzune down, "I'm glad you're here Yuri."
"How so…?" Yuri asked.
Miku felt chills run down her spine as she glanced back, seeing an almost disturbing expression of mad glee from Daishinji of all people.
"I'd like to do a very thorough examination on you," Daishinji said as the air grew thick in the workshop, "In order to learn more about how to separate Megid from Humans…"
Yuri suddenly felt a chill as he looked around, feeling a dangerous presence and unaware of where it could be. At least until he slowly turned and saw how Daishinji was looking at him, "I… believe I should see a professional…"
"I am a professional," Daishinji said calmly, though his expression said otherwise.
Meanwhile in London, it was still rather early in the day. So much so that Tsubasa and Maria were currently having some brunch at a café as they wanted something other than the standard hotel room service. Of course because of their status, the two had gone for the usual trick of hats and some sunglasses, it working like usual.
Thankfully despite the alchemist presence in London, there were no constant attacks to worry about or deal with. So the two were able to eat at a moderate pace and finish up before simply sitting around, lounging while they finished up their drinks.
"To think you're so relaxed," Tsubasa remarked as she took a sip of her coffee, "I would have assumed you to be trying to continue your search."
"Oh trust me I've been keeping an eye out," Maria admitted, "I've only gotten dead ends as of now, so I'm taking your advice and keeping a steady pace."
"At the very least it's not like we're completely slacking off," Tsubasa reminded, "Ogawa and his team are currently doing all they can as well."
"Very true," Maria said before sighing a bit, "I wonder how the others are doing."
"I'm certain they're handling themselves fine," Tsubasa replied, "From what Ogawa said in passing, there was another Megid attack but they were able to deal with it fairly quickly."
"Oh?" Maria asked, "Sounds like Touma and Hibiki are going strong."
"From what I heard it was actually Akatsuki and Tsukuyomi who ended up dealing with the Megid in the end," Tsubasa said, giving a light smirk when she saw Maria grow surprised, "It seems as though they've become fairly reliable in our absence."
"I suppose so," Maria said as she shook off her surprise, "I am proud of them, though that doesn't stop me from wanting to worry…"
"That being said, I doubt you're concerned over their battles," Tsubasa added, "Just like you, I miss seeing my close friends every day. It's selfish and even dangerous to say this… but sometimes…" she shook her head briefly, "No, I'd rather not say it. It's bad enough that I'm thinking it to begin with."
"It's alright to be a bit self-indulgent," Maria pointed out, "It's natural to miss others, especially when they're our friends."
"That being said, it's a good thing the Megid usually stick within Japan," Tsubasa added, "I couldn't even begin to imagine what havoc they could wreak world-"
BOOM!
Tsubasa and Maria immediately stood up as they heard and saw bursts of dark energy strike the street nearby them as well as any buildings, causing explosions. Everyone around could only yell out and run off to hide as a Megid walked into view.
It was a strange Megid as it had the usual lower half, but its upper body resembled an almost modified Goblin Megid, the left half being red and muscle-like in texture while the right half was more armored, having a mix of purple and silver. It had gold accents over his armor alongside its face, having two gold horns as its face was also split, the left half being red while the right half was white.
"Is that…?" Maria's eyes widened.
"A Megid…?" Tsubasa questioned in shock.
The strange goblin Megid turned towards them before giving a gasp while giggling, covering its mouth before quickly running off.
"It recognized us," Maria said, "And it's trying to lure us away."
"Luckily that works to our advantage," Tsubasa said as she quickly rushed off after the Megid, "Let's go!"
"Right," Maria said as she nodded and followed after.
"You know I've got to say, I'm impressed you two," Chris said as she was currently in SONG's cafeteria, sitting across from Kirika and Shirabe, "To think you two are nearly done with your summer homework."
"Well I suppose it's because of your strict tutelage," Shirabe noted.
"Thank you again, dess!" Kirika said as she bowed slightly.
"I guess I do make a pretty good teacher," Chris chuckled slightly, feeling pride in her managing to help her juniors, though of course part of this was just to feed her ego.
"So is this why we aren't doing a study session today?" Kirika asked, since they usually didn't meet at SONG Headquarters like this.
"It can't be for dinner either since if you wanted to treat us you wouldn't have picked here," Shirabe added, already picking up on Kirika's questions.
"I was wondering if we could get a late training session in soon after the dummy and the bookworm wrap up with theirs," Chris admitted, "I know we're supposed to conserve LiNKER but I've heard your times have been getting extended thanks to the treatments Daishinji's been using Bremen for. Plus I want to check out what you two can do with your Ride Gear forms after how hyped the dummy's been about them."
"A chance to show off and grow stronger," Kirika said in awe at the thought, "Dess!"
"It would be our pleasure," Shirabe agreed.
"Ah!" Yuri quickly slid into the cafeteria through one of the few entrances it had before looking around, "Oh no I believe I've trapped myself…"
"Huh, Yuri what are you doing, dess?" Kirika asked.
"Probably something stupid," Chris held a bored stare.
"What's going on?" Shirabe asked.
"I must hide from your swordsmith!" Yuri called out, "He insists on examining me and I shall not have that!"
"Oh right you're a sword on technicality," Chris said in realization, as if she had pushed that thought to the back of her head, "Wait, can't you teleport or something? Why don't you just teleport somewhere else where he won't find you?"
"Ah you're right," Yuri said as he quickly prepared his transformation before drawing out Saikou, "Let there be light!"
[SAIKOU HAKKOU!]
A blinding light enveloped the cafeteria before fading, Chris, Kirika and Shirabe all wincing before blinking several times as Yuri was no longer in the area.
"I swear," Chris hung her head.
"I wonder where he teleported to…" Kirika mused.
"Where is he?!" Daishinji called out as he slid into the cafeteria while looking around frantically, "I know he's in here!"
"You just missed him," Chris replied before shrugging, "No clue where he went though."
"There are only so many places he can hide," Daishinji said before running out through another exit, "My curiosity as a swordsmith must be satiated!"
The three were ready to start talking again when Miku suddenly ran in.
"Daishinji went that way, no clue where Yuri is," Chris immediately pointed towards the exit where Daishinji had left through. She had an easy time recalling that Miku was helping out in the SONG Workshop from time to time and was likely on duty today.
"Thank you Chris," Miku said before hurrying out the same exit that Daishinji had left through, "Daishinji, please calm down!"
"Today is rather lively," Shirabe noted in a dull manner.
"Livelier than usual, dess," Kirika admitted.
Maria and Tsubasa were running for who knows how long through the London streets, barely managing to catch sight of the strange goblin-like Megid only to lose sight of it suddenly. The two looked around, now in the middle of an alleyway while trying to get their bearings but unable to.
"Did we really lose its trail?" Maria asked as she looked around.
"I think…" Tsubasa said as she looked around, trying to find any kind of clue, "Just what was that?"
"A Megid from the looks of it," Maria said, "But something seemed different about it."
"You're right," Tsubasa agreed, "We've seen Goblin Megid before… but this one felt like an evolved… nay, a completely different variation on it."
"Do you think it's a different Megid that Legeiel uses?" Maria asked.
"Perhaps," Tsubasa said as she put a hand to her chin, "We should put in a call to SONG, see if they might be aware of anything."
"I suppose that might be best," Maria nodded as she turned to head back.
"E-Excuse me…?"
Maria and Tsubasa immediately turned only to relax when it was a lone woman with long black hair. Despite being dressed for London, she oddly enough seemed of Asian descent. It was a detail that both Wielders immediately took notice of.
"And you are…?" Maria asked, wondering if it as a fan from overseas that had seen them.
"Mi-Misaki…" the woman introduced with a bow, "I… I…"
"I take it you're a fan, correct?" Tsubasa asked, figuring the same thing that Maria had.
"You know something about the monster right?!" Misaki asked as she hurried over before getting on her knees and bowing, "Please, you need to help me save my uncle!"
"Eh?" Maria looked in surprise, "What do you mean?"
"Did that monster kidnap your uncle?" Tsubasa asked.
"No," Misaki shook her head before looking up in a pleading manner, "That monster is my uncle!"
Maria and Tsubasa both held looks of shock as they stayed silent at this, the two looking over at each other and wondering how exactly this was possible. Due to the limited contact between SONG and their operation in London, that meant they didn't have up to date details on the new type of Megid like the others had.
"Could you excuse us a moment," Maria politely smiled as she dragged Tsubasa over to a corner before huddling with her, "Tsubasa… you heard her correctly, right?"
"I did…" Tsubasa replied, "Just what is she implying…?"
"Clearly we need to talk to the others immediately," Maria said as she pulled out her communicator and accessed the emergency radio line they would use to contact SONG overseas. Once she got a hit she spoke up, "This is Maria speaking, Tsubasa is with me."
"Maria, Tsubasa," Sophia spoke up in surprise, "Just what's going on?"
"You know not to use this line carelessly," Genjuro added, the worry in his voice clear from his tone of speaking, "What happened?"
"We've encountered a Megid in London," Tsubasa said.
Genjuro gasped, "What?!"
"Did they target you?" Sophia asked.
"Not exactly," Maria replied, "It was causing trouble and then ran off."
"But what we found out next was disturbing," Tsubasa said, "Supposedly we've run into someone claiming the Megid is their uncle. Is that even possible?"
There was silence for a long time, at least until Genjuro spoke up.
"It is…"
"What?" Maria gasped, "Since when?"
"And why weren't we aware of this information?" Tsubasa asked.
"It's been a few weeks admittedly with only two incidents," Genjuro replied, "But given the Megid have more often than not concentrated themselves in Japan… we didn't think that we'd need to bother you two with this information."
"Especially when Maria has her own mission she's on that doesn't concern the Megid," Sophia added.
"That's fair…" Tsubasa admitted, "But we need all the information you can give us now."
"It's a new part of their schemes," Genjuro answered, "The Megid are transforming people to create new Alter Ride Books."
"There is a way to save them however," Sophia replied, "The Sword of Light, Kougouken Saikou."
"Wait a minute… do you mean…" Maria trailed in shock.
"The very same sword that appeared to us at the end of the fight against Carol," Genjuro confirmed, "Normally I'd be concerned we wouldn't make it in time but given the abilities Yuri has showed, I'm sure he can get over to you before it's too late."
"Before it's too late?" Tsubasa asked.
"If an Alter Ride Book is completed… the host is devoured and the Megid permanently takes shape," Sophia answered.
"Send him over immediately," Maria nearly ordered, "We'll keep tracking this Megid and hopefully find it by the time he arrives."
"Good luck," Genjuro said before cutting communications.
"Um…"
Tsubasa and Maria turned towards Misaki who gave a light wave when they turned towards her.
"We can help your uncle," Maria reassured as she walked over.
"In exchange however we're going to need you to sign some confidentiality papers at the end of this all," Tsubasa explained in a firm manner, "Given the nature of this situation."
"E-Eh…?" Misaki looked between both idols in surprise.
Saber and Hibiki were currently in the training room, the two staring each other down as Saber initiated his finisher, Hibiki shifting her right gauntlet to where her gauntlet now had boosters to propel it forward.
Saber let out a deep breath before leaping up and kicking out, "Flame Dragon Kicking Break!"
"Hibiki Style…" Hibiki took a deep breath, leaping upwards before kicking out, "Star Stream Spear!"
The two shouted out as they closed in on each other, Hibiki using the booster on her arm to launch at higher speeds while fire began wrapping around her leg. Saber continued on his path forward, fire erupting from his leg as it formed a dragon's maw.
The two hurtled towards each other, almost ready to connect… until Saikou suddenly appeared in front of them in a brief burst of light.
The Rider and Wielder yelped as they quickly veered away from their kicks as Saikou had appeared between their attacks. The two could only yell out as they crashed into the ground, tumbling away.
"Oh," Saikou began looking around, "Oops… let there be light!"
[SAIKOU HAKKOU!]
In another burst of light, Saikou had vanished.
"Ouch…" Saber groaned out as he began to pick himself up, "Hibiki, are you okay?"
"I think so," Hibiki let out a light groan as she shook her head to pick herself up, "Was that Yuri?"
"I think so," Saber said as he dusted himself off, "Why'd he show up and then vanish though?"
"I don't know," Hibiki answered honestly with a shrug, "So did you want to…"
"Maybe after a break," Saber admitted as he plopped down on the ground to sit, "That kind of took all the energy out of the practice match."
"True," Hibiki said as she went to sit down as well.
The two were starting to lie down to relax further in their armor only to jolt up at the alarm ringing. The two stared at each other before dismissing their transformations and rushing for the training room's exit.
"So it seems as though the Wielders took the bait," Legeiel said as he was currently standing on the edge of Big Ben, staring down at London with a disgusted look.
"You don't seem too happy," Zooous remarked as he was next to Legeiel, squatting down near him.
"Because London is awful," Legeiel admitted as he looked around before glancing to the side, "But I suppose I'll put up with it if it means absolutely crushing their spirits. Especially if they do the predictable thing and bring who I think they will…"
"You're awfully confident…" Zooous chuckled, "But I'll admit I like seeing this side of you."
"He'll pay for making a mockery of me," Legeiel gripped his right hand tightly while bringing it up.
"Well on the bright side we have Storious on cleanup," Zooous mentioned, "He'll make sure the ones we set up are all withdrawn while we distract everyone with this."
At SONG Headquarters' bridge, Genjuro and Sophia had called a meeting with all available Riders and Wielders on the submarine. Elfnein was already present due to being on bridge beforehand, though she was currently working with Aoi to decrypt the data chip while Miku had decided to accompany Daishinji even if she wasn't an official Rider yet. It was very much everyone but Kanade and those in London, though of course Genjuro noticed the lack of certain Seiken of Light.
"Where's Yuri?" Genjuro asked.
"Hiding somewhere probably," Chris replied before glancing at a nervous Daishinji, "Someone was a bit too forward with him from what I heard."
"Well we'll need to find him soon," Sophia urged, "We've gotten word from Tsubasa and Maria that a Megid has shown up in London. And it's the new type of Megid we've been facing down."
"Seriously…?" Rintaro asked in shock, "They're all the way in London?"
"Hold up, that's nowhere near here!" Chris called out, "Are you telling me they could have done that from the get go?!"
"Or… they have been doing it," Shirabe theorized out loud as everyone paused at her words, most wondering if that had actually been the case or not.
"T-That's not good, dess!" Kirika called out after her moment of shock.
"Even so, we need to save the person who was turned into a Megid," Hibiki said, trying to get everyone back on track and trying to push out any worst case scenario theories for the moment, "Right?"
"Hibiki's right," Touma nodded, not liking how plausible Shirabe's theory was so he was glad for the distraction, "But how do we get to London in such a short time?"
"I can help with that."
Sakuya yelped as Saikou suddenly shot out from underneath his station to greet everyone.
"H-How long were you there?!" Sakuya questioned.
"Oh, that's where you were…" Daishinji remarked.
"No comment," Saikou remarked before floating over to Touma, "I can travel at high speeds and get you to London in a few minutes at most."
"Then let's go," Touma nodded.
"Very well, let's go," Saikou shifted as if nodding, "Just do not let go of me."
"Alright," Touma nodded as he gripped Saikou tightly only to yelp as Saikou launched directly out of the bridge.
The sword of light shot through the halls of SONG's submarine headquarters in a flash, taking care to not slam into anything as he launched upwards into the air and carried Touma along with him.
"The skies feel nice, eh?" Saikou asked while Touma was now screaming.
Sakuya had immediately pulled up a camera feed the minute Saikou left, everyone on the bridge watching the entire sequence in awe as they could only stare in surprise at the precision Yuri displayed as Saikou. Once Saikou and Touma were far enough in the sky and unable to be tracked via camera, Sakuya cut the feed off.
"This is still troublesome," Rintaro admitted as he crossed his arms, "To think they might be making more Megid without us knowing…"
"There have been a few incident reports, with monster rumors popping up," Sophia admitted as everyone turned towards her in surprise, "But we haven't been able to catch much which is why we haven't acted on them."
"There's also the fact that they're taking place outside of the city," Genjuro replied, "Meaning it'd take longer to mobilize and we couldn't risk going on rumors alone."
"There has to be a way to track them," Chris crossed her arms, "Have we really not figured that out yet? Especially with how advanced our technology team is now?"
"Sorry," Elfnein apologized, "With what little data we have of the Megid, even if we started on one… it would take a long while…"
"What would you need to have a lot of data to make it quicker?" Hibiki asked curiously.
"An Alter Ride Book," Daishinji spoke up, "If we had one of those directly on hand, then it'd be easy."
"Alter Ride Book…" Chris muttered before her eyes widened in realization. She quickly turned and ran towards the exit of the bridge to everyone's surprise.
Hibiki turned, "C-Chris?!"
"Where are you going?" Shirabe questioned, "Don't we…"
"We're putting a rain check on that training!" Chris called out from the hall, "I've got somewhere important I need to be!"
"Wonder what she means by that, dess…" Kirika tilted her head.
Maria and Tsubasa were currently still in the alleyway with Misaki, the idol duo currently questioning the young woman.
"Now, and excuse us for assuming otherwise," Maria prefaced as she went to ask her question, "But what exactly is someone of your nationality… doing here?"
"We can only assume tourism, though we haven't really seen many people from my home country here admittedly," Tsubasa added, trying to not make the question seem that harsh.
"O-Oh I actually live here with my uncle," Misaki explained, "My uncle moved over a long while back, and once my parents ended up passing away, he asked me to live with him here."
"Ah I see," Tsubasa nodded, "Do not worry in the slightest as we plan on assisting you on getting him back."
"Even if this is a first for us as well," Maria admitted.
"Can't you slow dow-wait you're landing there?!"
The three looked up as they saw a glint in the sky, a bright light impacting near them as Touma stumbled out of it. He looked around in awe, "Jeez… we really are in London, huh?"
"Kamiyama," Tsubasa greeted with a smile as she walked over with Maria, "It's been a while."
"It has," Touma smiled back before frowning, "Sorry it couldn't be under better circumstances."
"How splendid, I've yet to visit London," Saikou remarked as he removed himself from Touma's grip before reverting back to his human form. He looked over the group in front of him though he tilted his head and began to look around curiously, something seeming off.
"I suppose this is a first for both of us," Touma chuckled before looking over and seeing Misaki, "Who is she?"
"Oh right, I suppose they only told you the barebones in order to cut down on how long it would take," Maria noted before gesturing towards MIsaki, "This is Misaki, her Uncle is the Megid and we're currently helping her."
"Hello, and thank you," Misaki bowed.
"Do we know where the Megid is?" Touma asked.
"We don't, we ran into Misaki after we had lost it," Tsubasa shook her head.
"What kind of Megid was it?" Touma asked again, figuring they needed some kind of clue.
"It was a goblin themed Megid," Maria answered, "It seemed different than the ones we faced down while fighting Carol though."
"Goblin but different… that doesn't help much so we can only go off on basics," Touma replied, "The new type of Megid's usually have a mission they're trying to accomplish. If it's a Goblin then it's a troublemaker and probably wants to mess with something Misaki's uncle is attached to greatly."
"Ah, there's a factory that shut down recently that he used to work at," Misaki spoke up in realization, "Would that be enough?"
"That's the first place you consider?" Tsubasa asked with a raised brow.
"It's a special place that means a lot to him," Misaki admitted as she looked down and twiddled her thumbs, "He made a lot of friends there, and he still goes by to reminisce about the 'good old days' as he calls them."
"That sounds very personal," Yuri noted.
"It does," Maria agreed.
"If it carries a lot of precious memories then it's a perfect place," Touma realized, "Can you lead us there?"
"Of course," Misaki nodded as she pulled out her phone and began to search through the map, "Just follow me!"
The Riders and Wielders watched as Misaki took off in a hurry, all four looking at each other and nodding before taking off.
"Why is it that the Swordswoman of Smoke gives off a familiar scent…?" Desast muttered.
He was currently lying on the top of a parked supply truck, his hands behind his head as he looked up at the sky. While the truck was high enough to hide him for the most part, due to it being windy his scarf was being blown. The result was of course, a red scarf flowing out from the top of a supply truck.
This was just what Chris needed to track Desast without leaping around buildings with her Symphogear. Especially upon figuring the absurd amount of questions she'd get if she donned her armor suddenly.
"Hey," Chris spoke up as she approached.
"Oh?" Desast sat up before leaning and lying on his side while shifting himself closer to the edge of the truck, "Well this is rare, you usually don't go out purposely searching for me…"
"Yeah, I know," Chris replied as she put her hands on her hips.
"You also seem rather serious…" Desast noted, "Well more so than your usual uptightness."
"I'm going to choose to ignore that comment," Chris said as her eye twitched.
"Okay but seriously," Desast leaned forward, "Why are you here?"
"I'll cut straight to the point," Chris said as she lowered her arms before looking the chimera Megid dead in the eyes, "I need your Alter Ride Book."
Desast stared back with a seemingly neutral expression, "Huh?"
"This Megid issue is getting out of hand and we need a way to track them but don't have the proper data," Chris explained, "We'd need a fully intact Alter Ride Book to do so."
"And what makes you think I'll give mine up so easily?" Desast asked, keeping his tone neutral but there was clearly some tenseness in his voice.
"I don't expect you to," Chris admitted much to the Megid's surprise, "I'm not about to beg you either for it."
"Then why ask me?" Desast asked.
"I figured given our current standing with each other, you'd trust me enough to hold your book for a while," Chris replied, "Plus wouldn't you love to see us easily undercut your former 'employer's' plans?"
"You make a tempting offer…" Desast admitted, "But how can I trust you? What can you do to reassure me that you won't just have me put on SONG's leash?"
"Because I know what it's like to be put on one, so I know how you feel," Chris answered, "But unfortunately the only thing I can give you is a promise."
"A promise… huh?" Desast asked as he thought on Chris' words, "Well then…"
"Hey so did you all hear about that monster attack?"
"Monster, wait you mean it's not Noise?"
"Nah, those were mostly dealt with and seem to be Japan exclusive now."
"You think it's the one that's been reported stealing food since last night?"
"Wait, that's a thing?"
As Misaki led them to the factory, the Riders and Wielders were hearing strange murmurings. Maria in particular wondered if the new Megid was stealing food, and what kind of relation that had to Misaki's Uncle. Of course she didn't get much time to mull on it as Misaki had been quick on escorting them all to the closed down factory. It seemed to only be recently closed down though its age was apparent with how worn the outer walls were.
Upon entering they were greeted by a factory that was still in the process of being stripped down. Of course without any lights and only the natural lighting of daylight, they could only see so much.
"Jeez, it's dark," Touma said as he looked around, "Even though it's daytime."
"I think I can recall where my uncle said the power was," Misaki said as she looked around, bringing out a light on her phone to try and clear up the area just slightly before moving off on her own, "Let me try and find it."
"Stick close everyone," Maria said as the others nodded, everyone carefully making their way through the factory before they heard the sounds of metal boxes falling to the floor. Everyone turned before carefully approaching the direction they heard it in.
"I see something," Yuri squinted as there was a figure that was stumbling forward.
"E-excuse me, sir…?" Touma spoke up slowly causing the figure to freeze in place, assuming they were Misaki's uncle.
"Are you alright?" Tsubasa asked, "We're here to help."
"I don't understand…? What are you saying…?"
Everyone paused at the voice, it being fairly young but also being that of a woman's alongside them not speaking Japanese in the slightest.
Before anyone could even question anything, the lights were suddenly turned on. Everyone winced as they shielded their eyes briefly as they soon saw a local woman who was frightened. The woman could only yell out as dark wisps of energy formed out from her body, wrapping around her and transforming her into a Megid.
[SNAKE TOGURON!]
Like always the Megid had the usual lower body, but had scales on its forearms, chest, and shoulders, snake-like heads acting as its hands. It had a monstrous snake shaped head, various snake-like tendrils wrapping around its shoulders.
"H-Hungry…!" the Snake Megid shouted out with a hiss.
"That wasn't the Megid we were looking for!" Maria's eyes widened.
"Just what's going on?" Touma questioned.
"They made two Megid at once?" Tsubasa asked.
"More than two actually…"
"I was curious as to why something seemed off," Yuri narrowed his eyes as he turned with the others, "But to think you were able to trick me."
Before everyone was Misaki who had a smile with her hands behind her back.
"What's the meaning of this?" Tsubasa asked.
"No way…" Maria said as she began to put two and two together, "You're!"
[AMANOJAKU!]
Misaki spread her arms out with a wicked grin as red energy erupted from her and tore her body apart, revealing the Megid that had lured out Tsubasa and Maria earlier, its name now known as Amanojaku.
"What's the meaning of this?" Touma questioned, "More than one human turned Megid?"
"What?" Amanojaku scoffed, "Did you really think we were going to play by the rules and only bring out one at a time for the first batch?"
"Excuse me?" Touma asked as his eyes widened in realization, he let loose a glare as he quickly prepared his Swordriver, "Yuri, Tsubasa, Maria! Let's save them!"
"Of course," Yuri nodded as he prepared Saikou.
Tsubasa and Maria both nodded, getting back to back with the Riders while preparing their Relic Pendants.
"Henshin!"
"~Imyuteus Ame no Habakiri tron~"
"~Seilien coffin Airgetlám tron~"
[REKKA BATTOU! BRAVE DRAGON~!]
[WHO IS THE SHINING SWORD? SAIKOU!]
{SG-r01: Amenohabakiri}
{SG-x00: Airgetlám}
Saber immediately gripped Saikou before charging forward, "I'll save Misaki first!"
"I'd like to see you try!" Amanojaku laughed as he charged forward.
"If he's focusing on her then we'll deal with our snake friend," Maria drew out her dagger.
"Of course, Tsubasa drew out her sword and gripped it with both hands.
"Hungry, must devour!" the Snake Megid shouted as it opened its mouth, dislocating its jaw and creating a gaping maw that began to form a vortex that would suck anything nearby inside.
"W-What…?" Maria gasped out as she tried to keep her ground.
"It wants to eat?" Tsubasa questioned before quickly moving in despite the suction making her move faster. She shifted her blade into its cleaver state before swinging while unleashing a burst of energy from it.
{Blue Flash}
The Snake Megid yelled out as the blast struck the sides of its mouth while attempting to inhale it, sparks flying as it was sent to the ground while holding its face. It hissed before launching its snake mouth hands out like tendrils to ensnare Tsubasa's weapon.
"Not bad," Tsubasa mused as she kept a tight grip and a firm stance to keep from being pulled, "However…"
"You forgot about me," Maria reminded as she brought out a trail of knives before launching them out towards the Megid.
{INFINITE†CRIME}
The Snake Megid hissed out as its tendrils were cut, flopping back to the ground as it tried to back away and gain more space, "No, do not interrupt my meal!"
Saber meanwhile shouted, flipping over several blasts that Amanojaku sent out before rushing forward. He then used Rekka and Saikou to easily bat away any other blasts Amanojaku sent before closing in and pressing Saikou's blade against Amanojaku.
"What?" Amanojaku gasped out.
"It's over, I'm saving Misaki!" Saber called out as he initiated Saikou's finisher.
[SAIKOU HAKKOU!]
"Dragon's Gleaming Slash!" Saber shouted as he struck Amanojaku with just Saikou, sparks flying as Amanojaku staggered back, "Now for-"
"Ha ha…" Amanojaku was leaning back as far as he could while managing to keep his balance, slowly but surely standing upright again, "Not bad Swordsman of Flame."
"What?" Saber questioned in shock before looking at Saikou, "But that should have…"
"I suppose it was only a matter of time until they got the drop on us," Saikou realized.
"Huh?" Saber held Saikou up, "What does that mean?"
"I'll tell you what it means!" Legeiel called out as he walked into view with a smile, "It means you've failed!"
"Yep, we tricked you all so hard!" Zooous called out as he moved into view to stand alongside Legeiel.
"Eh?" Saber lowered his weapons as he turned towards Legeiel, his hands starting to shake when he saw the Phantom Beast Megid Leader hold up the Amanojaku Alter Ride Book, "It… it's…"
"It was completed like a good few days ago," Amanojaku remarked nonchalantly, "Oh and Misaki was just a sob story I concocted to get you guys to play along. I actually came from some old fart that didn't really matter to anyone."
"You what…?" Tsubasa turned with a glare.
"Yep," Amanojaku saluted with a giggle, "I'm quite the troublemaker when it comes to assuming different identities."
"Sure you'll be able to save that girl more than likely," Zooous said while squatting and pointing at the Snake Megid, "But that doesn't mean the dozens of people we've already turned into Alter Ride Books will be saved."
"We've been very busy out of country," Legeiel nodded, "While you all were running around dealing with what minor plots we made you aware of, we were making six times as many Megid."
"D-Dozens…?" Saber gasped out as he felt lightheaded at the news, dropping to his knees, "Y-You mean… I couldn't spare them from that fate…? The pain and suffering that engulfed and nearly took over my mom…?"
Tsubasa's eyes widened, "Kamiyama!"
"You sick monsters," Maria glared, "Just what is the whole point of this?!"
"To break the Swordsman of Flame's spirit of course," Legeiel spread out his arms, Zooous taking the Amanojaku Alter Ride Book from him as he did so. He then summoned his sword as he shifted into his Phantom Beast form, "You all can be so predictable. So much so that we knew what you'd likely do when you found a Megid out of country…"
"Well then, I think we're done here," Zooous said as Amanojaku began to walk over, "You sure you didn't want your new Megid to stick around?"
"Nah, I want to savor this myself," Legeiel remarked.
"Thank you for allowing me this chance Master Legeiel," Amanojaku put an arm to his chest and bowed before Zooous clawed at the space in front of them, energy being released and engulfing the two Megid before they vanished.
"Touma, get up," Saikou said as he managed to shift his way out of Saber's grip before floating over to him, "Touma!"
"I couldn't… I couldn't save them?" Saber asked, the shock still fresh.
"Saikou," Tsubasa spoke up as she walked over to stand by Saber, "You've fought with Maria once before, correct? Go to her now… I will deal with Legeiel."
"Very well," Saikou sighed as he shot towards Maria who quickly caught him with her left hand, "Show me your resolve, Maria!"
"Of course," Maria nodded as she charged towards the Snake Megid which had fully recovered.
"Oh?" Legeiel chuckled as he began to approach the fallen Saber alongside Tsubasa, "Normally I'd be annoyed that you're in my way… but to think you're protecting this defeated man."
"I will not allow someone to harm my friends in any way and get away with it," Tsubasa steeled her resolve as she grabbed her Pendant, "And I still have a score to settle with you in particular… Ignite Module, Bakken!"
{Dáinsleif}
Tsubasa allowed the sharpened Pendant to pierce her as black energy formed over her before bursting apart to reveal her Ignite Module form. She drew her enhanced blade and charged towards Legeiel, leaping up before slashing forward, Legeiel blocking with his own blade as an invisible shockwave occurred from their clash.
Daishinji and Elfnein were both surprised when they were asked to meet in SONG's workshop by Chris of all people. They waited for who knows how long before Chris entered, staying silent as she walked over to the table they were near before slapping her palm onto it.
To both the Alchemist's and Swordsmith's surprise, what she had slapped onto the table was Desast's Alter Ride Book.
"This is…" Elfnein's eyes widened as she stared at the Alter Ride Book.
"Desast's book," Daishinji spoke up before looking at Chris, "How did you get this?"
"Not important," Chris said, "Would you be able to use this to make a tracker for the Megid?"
"Considering we have an actual sample on hand, if we study it extensively then yes," Elfnein nodded.
"We should get started then," Daishinji suggested, ready to grab it only for Chris to snatch it away.
"I'm only giving this to you all on two conditions," Chris said as she held up the book but kept a tight grip on it, "We're not telling anyone how we did this aside from who needs to know, and I'm taking it back to Desast after you're done."
"We can work with those conditions," Daishinji nodded.
"Considering what I've heard and can recall about the Megid from Carol's memories… their books are very important to them," Elfnein admitted before nodding, "We'll do our work and then let you take it back."
"Thanks," Chris said before holding it out for Daishinji to take.
Maria was currently lashing out with her dagger, it extending outwards and striking at the tendrils that the Snake Megid launched out towards her.
{EMPRESS†REBELLION}
She quickly backed away as a few snake tendrils managed to get through the attack and rushed straight for her. With a swift swing of Saikou she unleashed a burst of light that forced the tendrils back.
"This Megid isn't going to let us get close," Saikou noted.
"We'll need speed and defense," Maria said before smirking and dismissing her dagger before drawing out Bakusou Usagi to Kame.
[BAKUSOU USAGI TO KAME!]
[A record of the prideful competition between a rabbit and a turtle…]
She wasted no time in holding it up to her pendant, it chiming in response.
{Wonder Ride Sync}
In a flash the white colored buckle that the other Symphogear Wielders would gain appeared around Maria's waist. She slotted the Ride Book in place before pressing down on the button to open up the book, "Henshin!"
{Ride Change}
Saikou quickly shot out of Maria's grip and went to float by her as she held her left fist up, a green turtle shell projection forming over her as a pink whirlwind formed, the shell shattering due to the whirlwind and turning it into a mix of green and pink that coated Maria and covered her in a bright light. The wind and light soon faded to reveal her new form.
Maria now had a dark grey sleeveless open long coat with a high collar over her Symphogear Armor, the coat tucked beneath the buckle. There was some armoring near her chest, having a soft green coloration to them. Her right shoulder now had rounded shoulder armor on it, there being a checkered pattern as if representing a racing flag.
Her Airgetlam gauntlet was modified, green turtle shell armoring over it with a jet booster on the back. Likewise to tie further into the motif, her boots had pink rabbit armoring over them, jet boosters on the back of her heels. A mechanical white face mask covered her mouth, having light blue lines running through it while she also had a pink sunglass styled visor over her eyes.
{Usagi-Kame Airgetlam!}
"How splendid," Saikou remarked as he floated over, Maria grabbing and wielding him in a reverse grip with her left hand, "Let's go!"
"Hungry, too hungry," the Snake Megid complained before yelling out and unleashing its shoulder tendrils towards Maria, "So I'll devour you first!"
Maria quickly raised her left forearm, forming an energy projection of a turtle's shell to block the tendrils and bounce them back. She then leaned forward as the boosters on her heels activated, "Right… let's go!"
The Snake Megid hissed as its tendrils were forced away, withdrawing them back only to yelp as it watched Maria close in at high speeds.
"Not bad!" Legeiel called out as he clashed blades with Tsubasa before forcing her back, he then gathered fire in his blade before swinging it outwards in a wave.
Tsubasa braced against the wave while splitting her sword down the middle, energy spewing out and helping her brace before she dispersed the fire near her. She then rushed forward, her energy in her blade still building as she began striking rapidly at Legeiel who was forced to block.
Legeiel gasped as the strikes were growing stronger and stronger, coating his sword in ice and rocks constantly to keep his defenses strong.
Tsubasa let out a yell as she leapt upwards before slashing down, a blue burst of energy exploding outwards.
{Blue Flash Kshetra}
Legeiel gasped out as he skidded out of the explosion, his body smoking as he let out an impressed grunt, "No bad for a Symphogear Wielder… but-"
"I'm not done yet!" Tsubasa stole Legeiel's come back as she extended her ankle blades, lighting them on fire while splitting her sword into two and leaping up. Her ankle blades extended downwards as the swords she held lit on fire, she spun forward, fire engulfing her and erupting into the form of a phoenix that launched straight for Legeiel.
Legeiel let out a light gasp before charging his sword with electricity and slashing out at the Phoenix just as it approached, clashing with it.
{Zenith's Soaring Phoenix's Flash}
The Phoenix screeched out before erupting into a tornado of fire, Legeiel yelling out as the fires burned him while the harsh winds launched him backwards and slammed him against the factory entrance.
Tsubasa landed as she shifted her weapons back to their single blade form, staring at her blade and gripping her hand tightly, "So we truly can go toe to toe against them now with Ignite's raw power."
[SAIKOU HAKKOU!]
"Let there be light!" Saikou called out as Maria launched forward, using the boosters on her heels and gauntlet to launch forward at high speeds while the Seiken of Light shined brightly.
The Snake Megid yelled out and launched dozens of tendrils out only gasp as they were all cut in an instant, Maria and Saikou slamming against it.
[GOOD LUCK!]
The result was the young woman being freed from the Snake Megid, Maria quickly tossed Saikou in the air before catching the woman and backing away from the Snake Megid who howled out.
"No, I must rejoin with her!" the Snake Megid hissed out desperately before rushing forward only for Saikou to launch down and strike against it several times, "We must feed this great hunger!"
Maria quickly tucked the unconscious woman away in a corner before moving back to the fight, initiating her finisher when she heard the Snake Megid's remark, "We're not letting the Megid's machinations go any further!"
{Hissatsu Dokuha!}
The area grew dark for the Snake Megid, it looking around before it saw glints of pink light. It turned only to not see the glints of light anymore as it was now unaware of the green glint of light that was now on its blind spot. In an instant Maria let out a shout as she launched forward. She slid across the ground with the help of all three of her boosters while reeling her left gauntleted arm back.
"Rapid Oblivion…!"
The Snake Megid turned but couldn't yell out as it got its face smashed in by Maria's left fist immediately, energy having gathered in her gauntlet and being released as she punched. The result was an explosion of energy that engulfed the Megid causing it to explode as well.
{Usagi-Kame Airgetlam! Issatsu Geki!}
Maria turned away with a scoff before raising her left hand and gripping it tightly, "So this is our extra power?"
"I suppose I'll let you all off the hook today," Legeiel growled out as he managed to stand, not exactly the happiest that a Symphogear Wielder was able to get the drop on him again. Though compared to the first time Hibiki did it, he at least knew that Ignite was meant to pack a punch, "Besides I got what I wanted."
"You damn inhuman beast…" Tsubasa narrowed her eyes.
"That being said I think we can relax more easily now," Legeiel laughed as his pride and ego began to show, "Your strongest member is broken, and we've gotten more than enough Alter Ride Books to afford to slow down for a moment."
"You're very confident," Tsubasa said as she aimed her sword forward, "But we will keep you from turning more innocents into fuel."
"I'd like to see you try," Legeiel laughed as he vanished in a burst of elemental energy.
With Legeiel gone, everyone including Saber went to dismiss their transformations.
Maria sighed as she walked over to Touma, "Are you really going to let Legeiel's words-"
"Maria, there's no need," Tsubasa said as she walked over and put a hand on her friend's shoulder before closing her eyes and shaking her head.
"Tsubasa…" Maria muttered before simply looking away and going to check on the young woman with Yuri following after her.
Tsubasa glanced at Touma, already knowing that her friend was letting the failure of protecting a human life, multiple human lives, eat away at him. She knew this especially since she could only assume that he was meant to be Saikou's standard wielder.
"Kamiyama," she said as she knelt down near Touma and put a hand on his shoulder.
"I won't let them get away with this," Touma finally spoke up as he gripped his hands tightly while they began to shake, "I promise… I'll find a way to save the humans they've transformed into Alter Ride Books alongside keeping others from sharing that fate. Somehow, some way…"
"And we'll walk by your side as you do," Tsubasa reassured.
Maria meanwhile gave a sigh as she looked at the unconscious young woman, "How are we going to explain this?"
"Simple," Yuri said as he walked over and placed a hand on the woman's head before a bright gold glow appeared and washed over her, "There, her memories of becoming a Megid should be completely erased. Placing her in a more comfortable area should also cause less confusion when waking up as well."
"You can erase memories?" Maria asked in surprise.
"Yes," Yuri nodded, "I didn't do it before, mostly because you all have your reports and all. Of course considering the current situation…"
"An international incident with the Megid would be hell for reporting, I'm sure the Commanders will be fine with it too," Maria sighed before looking over at Touma and Tsubasa, watching as Tsubasa glanced back, the two's eyes locking.
It was a momentary glance but the two realized that they'd need to support their friends in full force from this point onwards now that the Megid's assault has grown worse. They'd need to start making plans, because it was time to return home to Japan once more.
Unknown World:
When it came to the Noise, they didn't discriminate in where they attacked. Sometimes it was a busy intersection, other times it was a park, a stadium, and just about any crowded area. Sometimes they spawned in forests and attacked the wildlife or anyone who was around. Sometimes they found themselves in caves, or in other cases they found themselves in subway systems.
Due to the destructive nature of the fights against them as well as what other monstrous being inhabited this world, there were damages.
Such was the case of this subway line that had long been abandoned due to the damage in one area and most workers and companies refusing to touch it. Of course that meant it was the perfect resting ground, the perfect hiding place for an experiment to occur.
"Gaze's Log," Gaze said as he walked through the abandoned subway system, "I have spent enough time searching for potential avenues to move forward in what I've classified as the 'Main World'. While the results are better than expected, the tedium in searching will still take its toll so I shall occupy myself with older experiments in the interim. In this case I have chosen to interact with a subject I've yet to interact with in a while…"
As he narrated into his recording device he stopped near a gigantic hole, dropping down into the hole and landing as within the hole itself were various tunnels that were carved out. Low growls were heard as sets of glowing pink spikes could be seen within the darkness. Of course there was one tunnel that held something that had numerous glowing pink spikes, low muttering being heard from the tunnel.
"…or rather subjects would be the proper way to categorize your existence…" Gaze continued as he walked towards the main tunnel, "You've rested long and well and I've gathered up all I could find to keep you stable. Now is the time for you to try and ascend to my level."
Two bright pink eyes flashed, the eyes being the same shape as a standard Phantom Megid's as it seemed to respond to Gazer's words.
A yell could be heard as Kamen Rider Blades was sent stumbling away from a burst of darkness, his Seiken being thrown away as he lost his transformation.
The Suiseiken Nagare clattered away from its owner before stopping near a pair of familiar purple boots. The owner of said armored boots was none other than Kamen Rider Calibur who stared down at the Seiken before taking hold of and holstering it. Turning around Calibur sliced through the air, a corridor of darkness opening up before the Rider walked inside, the darkness dissipating before vanishing entirely.
To Be Continued…
Author's Note: For those not in the know about the opening scene, Kanade's referencing the first Phantom Megid she went on which was also a cameo in my other story Roze from Remnant. It's nothing too major, she just meets Sougo briefly and leaves after the Phantom Megid is killed, but I figured I'd give context. So yeah, just a little chapter before we actually get to our parallel world affairs. This is mostly a transition chapter but also one I really wanted to do when it came to modifying a plot point from Saber. And that's basically giving our heroes or rather Touma a more direct smack in the face when it comes to the Megid and them playing a whole other ballgame when it comes to the human turned Megid.
Aside from that, I finally get to show off Maria's Ride Gear form, which basically means all six of the Wielders have their alternate forms debuted. Well unless I decide to maybe add alternate alt forms like with Tsubasa but we'll just have to see. Next time for sure though, we begin our journey into a parallel world and one with a familiar mask if the final scene of the chapter is anything to go by. Thanks for reading and I'll see you next time.