Sympho-Saber: Song of Swords

RXU:EP12 – Ghost in the Machine

Heavy breathing could be heard through the back alleys of the late Tokyo night as a man dressed in a cloak hurried through the mostly quiet and dead streets of the section he was in. His cloak was familiar attire to those in the know as he was the same man that Maria and Tsubasa almost caught alongside the one Durendal was sent to execute.

Of course said executioner was on his mind as he could have sworn he had caught glimpses of both Durendal and worst of all, Sabela, lurking on the rooftops.

The man just had to hurry, because he knew he was in the right place despite his rush. He wouldn't have run if he didn't have a place to hide out at for a while that no one could reach. Eventually he managed to find an old shack behind an apartment complex.

"Here it is," the man said with near glee as he quickly drew out a key, opening the lock on the doorknob with ease before quickly slipping in and slamming the door shut. The doorknob locking could be heard alongside additional locks being used.

Smoke suddenly dropped down from above, spiraling as reality warped via water-like ripples next to the rising smoke. Soon enough Sabela appeared out from the smoke alongside Durendal appearing beside her out of the warped ripples.

"He's cornered himself," Durendal said as he tapped Kaiji's pole against the ground.

"Does he really think locking the door will help him?" Sabela asked as she brandished Noroshi, "It shouldn't be too hard to enter."

"It won't," Durendal nodded as he began to approach.

"So this is where it's located…"

Sabela and Durendal immediately turned, both of them backing up in surprise as they saw Gaze standing before them.

"Oh hello there," Gaze said as he held up his hand as if to wave, "I didn't think I'd run into the Riders who oppose SONG."

"You know of us?" Durendal asked, caught off guard but hiding it well enough.

"What even are you?" Sabela managed to speak up as she could barely hide her shock.

"Of course I know of you," Gaze chuckled as he lowered his hand, "As for what I am well… it would be a waste for me to explain to you everything. Just know that I'm an anomaly that's evolved past its primordial form, Gaze is my name most importantly."

"Why are you here?" Durendal questioned as his grip on Kaiji tensed, he wasn't sure what to make of this new entity.

"Clearly not for the same reason you two are," Gaze answered before he clasped his hands together, as he gave an inquisitive hum, "Is there any way I can ask you to leave?"

"That's a ridiculous request to make," Durendal growled out, "Especially concerning our mission."

"Very well, I suppose I can't fault you for this," Gaze said as he unclasped his hands before raising his left hand and snapping his fingers. In an instant he brought out numerous eye drones that began to aim towards Durendal and Sabela, their eyes shining brightly, "Please do forgive me, but this is a necessary part of my next plan."

Sabela and Durendal were ready to initiate their Seiken's elemental powers when they gasped, sparks flying from their backs. They staggered forward and turned to see that Gaze had summoned eye drones behind them as well. They could only turn back towards Gaze who gave a simple wave as the eye drones near him fired off their charged shots.

The man on the run wasn't aware of what was transpiring outside aside from muffled voices. Once locking the door he had pushed away a drawer that was at the very end of the shack. Pushing it revealed nothing except for a chipped tile on the floor. Of course the man simply grabbed at broken portion of the tile, lifting it up and setting it aside to reveal a ladder that descended further, going underground.

He wasted no time in making his way onto the ladder, managing to just barely slide the broken tile mostly back into place as he went to move downwards into the underground passage. Upon reaching solid ground he realized the area was fairly dark but quickly managed to bring out a lighter, managing to light his path enough to see an aged solid metal door a few feet in front of him.

"Alright, this bunker should be good," the man said as he managed to open the door before entering the room, shutting and locking it as he went to switch on the lights. Despite creaking and flickering, the lights came on to reveal a fairly dusty and old but surprisingly large room.

The room itself was odd as there were various shelves with what looked like various historical artifacts or at least well kept replicas. There were a few odd jars here and there that were obscured by dust and a few boxes on the shelves that weren't labeled. Various papers were strewn about, some having writing accompanied by drawings of black humanoid creatures with blue eyes but with different armoring.

The back wall was the most curious part, as there were stacks of machinery similar to a computer server. All of them were attached to an old junk computer that sat in front of the server machines. The man could only question why something like this was in a bunker to begin with but shook his head.

"Alright, just need to wait this out, maybe hopefully don't starve," he said as he looked around only to yelp as he heard the door suddenly began creaking as muffled blasts could be heard from behind it. He rummaged around his pockets as he backed away in surprise, accidentally knocking a flash drive he was holding onto out of his pocket and onto the floor, "Did they really not fall for empty room upstairs?!"

The door began to smoke before suddenly falling over as if gently shoved to reveal smoke obscuring the one that had forced the door open. As the door fell a slam echoed in the bunker as the area shook, the resulting shake just enough to jostle the server and computer, beeps being heard as they suddenly activated.

The man wasn't concerned with the sudden activation however, backing up and reaching into his pocket only to gasp. He had been trying to find some Alca-Noiser crystals to use as defense only to realize he had wasted them all against Maria back in London. He was internally kicking himself because in all his time running and hiding he didn't think to restock somehow.

Of course, those concerns were out the window once he saw Gaze walk through the smoke, staring in shock at the strange being before him.

"Ah hello there," Gaze said casually, "I assume you're what those two Riders were after."

"More than likely yeah," the man remarked before doing a double-take when he noticed the tone used, "Wait, what do you mean by were?"

"I managed to scare them off," Gaze replied, "Mostly because they wouldn't let me proceed and I truly wanted to see if I was right in this location. It seems as though I was."

"Wait, you know about this place?" the man asked, "But the only one who should was a relative of mine, he told me about this place on the off chance I got in trouble with the Illuminati."

"I have my ways," Gaze replied simply much to the man's chagrin, "That said, your relative certainly dabbled in some unique projects then if what you say is true. Though I doubt you'll really be of use to me as you are now…"

"What exactly is that supposed to mean?" the man asked in a guarded tone.

"I wish to transcend the boundaries of this world and many others, hopefully with what is here," Gaze said as he turned towards the computer which had fully booted up at this point. 15 strange symbols appeared in a circle, the image starting to glitch every now and again.

Multiple swirling black vortexes suddenly began opening up as numerous Phantom Megid with Argus headbands walked through before crowding the room. A few had immediately grabbed onto the man, restraining him.

"W-What the hell?" the man gasped as he looked around, recognizing the Phantom Megid's features but also knowing that they were different, "M-Megid?!"

"The proper term is Phantom Megid," Gaze replied before looking over with a devious chuckle which unnerved the man before him, "I do hope a live subject will allow me a prosperous experiment while I start my grand design."

The Next Day

Hibiki, Chris, Tsubasa and Yuri were currently making their way through a park, Tsubasa having the day off from any work due to varying circumstances. She had opted to wear a hat and sunglasses to help hide her appearance like always. Despite Chris and even Yuri's skepticism, it had managed to work thus far.

"Told you we'd be fine," Hibiki smiled.

"I'm still amazed that works," Chris remarked, "How?"

"Indeed," Yuri agreed, "I did not think changing a few accessories could give someone the ability to hide that well."

"It's honestly a surprise to me as well, but it works," Tsubasa commented, "Not to mention Kanade's been able walk around freely by utilizing this technique too."

"I'm still surprised she's able to do anything given she can't just put a hat on," Chris remarked, recalling how the phoenix Rider would go for a change in hairstyle while adding sunglasses. She then sighed, "Also, how the hell isn't she hot all the time with that new leather jacket?"

"Maybe it's made out of a good material?" Hibiki suggested.

"Well she doesn't wear it all the time though it has been her preferred style recently," Tsubasa added before glancing at Yuri, "Though speaking of odd clothing choices, I'm surprised you haven't gotten anything new."

"What I wear is fine enough to protect this world," Yuri answered as he spread his arms out.

"Okay, but what about everyone who stares at you?" Chris asked, "It's the same reason I'm always on Rintaro's case."

"I don't really care what others think of my appearance," Yuri admitted, "And I'm sure for Rintaro it's a matter of pride in his profession so he doesn't mind either."

"I suppose you can't argue with that," Hibiki admitted with a sheepish chuckle before giving a light groan and stretching a bit, "It does feel nice to have a day off though."

"Especially after yesterday," Chris agreed, "Seriously a Mermaid Megid?"

"We were lucky Tsubasa stepped up like she did," Hibiki admitted, recalling how they had borrowed Daikengou Urashimajirou with Tsubasa utilizing it to literally fish the Megid out of the water. She couldn't help but have stars in her eyes as she looked over towards the senior Wielder, "How did you even get that good?"

"Oh it was nothing," Tsubasa admitted, blushing a bit in embarrassment at the praise, "I have a little practice, that's all."

"I'm surprised you're one for fishing though," Chris admitted, "I never figured you'd be one for that kind of thing."

"Uncle owns a boat and whenever I'd have free time he'd take me fishing to relax," Tsubasa replied, "Admittedly we haven't done it as of late but it's a fond memory of mine."

"Quite splendid," Yuri replied, "I recall fishing back in the day simply from the lakes I'd come across with my allies."

"I kind of want to learn admittedly," Hibiki spoke up, "It seems like it could be fun."

"It takes a lot of patience," Tsubasa replied, "But it is rather rewarding once you get it right."

"Seems like a lot of trouble to be honest," Chris admitted with a light groan, "I'll just stick to my usual hobbies."

"That said," Tsubasa said as she decided to switch the conversation, "What did you all want to do today?"

"Pretty sure there's a bookstore I frequent nearby we could go to," Chris replied, "Need to stock up on some new Manga, and I have been tempted by a few model kits that I saw."

"Feels a bit weird, going to a bookstore that isn't Touma's," Hibiki admitted.

"We use it as more of a hangout spot than an actual establishment," Chris reminded.

"Not all of us do," Tsubasa remarked, "I make purchases quite frequently."

"It is a good place to learn," Yuri agreed.

"Yeah but Fantastic Bookstore Kamiyama doesn't really have the latest Manga in stock," Chris argued, "Which is why I usually go to the place I'm thinking of."

"Fair enough," Tsubasa replied, "Considering the lack of other options being given, lead the way Yukine."

"We've been making good progress with the Megid," Sakuya remarked as he sat at his station in SONG HQ's bridge, "That new tracker really works wonders."

"Between dealing with the new Megid type alongside exploring and defending Parallel World via Gjallarhorn, we've hit a good stride," Aoi agreed as she continued work at her station only to sigh, "Now if only it could rub off on trying to decipher the information Dr. Ver left us…"

"That would be nice," Sakuya replied, "Admittedly with this latest info we might be able to tie up one loose end…"

"Indeed," Sophia nodded.

"And if I'm right…" Genjuro trailed off before glancing back when he heard the doors opened, "Good, you all made it."

Upon turning the two commanders were greeted with Maria, Kanade, and Rintaro, the three having been called specifically to the bridge.

"You wanted to see us Commanders?" Maria asked.

"Yes," Genjuro replied, "There's something we need you three to look into."

"Last evening there was a sudden power outage in a section of the city," Sophia explained, "Though it only lasted for several minutes it's still notable in that the cause was unable to be identified by officials."

"I'm not sure I understand?" Rintaro questioned.

"Why exactly do you need us to look into a power outage?" Kanade asked, "Isn't that something that just gets brushed aside and only brought up again if it happens repeatedly?"

"Normally yes, but eyewitness reports mention armored figures lurking on the rooftops in the area," Genjuro replied, "Alongside a peculiarly cloaked individual rushing through the streets in a hurry."

"Armor huh…" Kanade muttered, realizing it was likely either Durendal or Sabela, though the thought of it being the latter made her worried.

"Said individual's clothing matches Maria's description of the one from London," Sophia added for clarity, "And given the report, while we have no way of knowing it's the same individual…"

"We have a lead again," Maria said as her eyes widened.

"Eh? You had a mission in London?" Rintaro asked.

"Yes," Maria replied, "The details aren't too important right now, what is important is that we have a lead."

"Normally I'd send you on your own but considering your Gear is still under repair we're sending you with two of our Riders," Genjuro answered.

"But where are we going?" Kanade asked, "A blackout area's too wide to narrow down isn't it?"

"Normally yes," Sophia nodded, "But there were sounds of a fight at the back of an apartment complex in the area. An old shack was discovered alongside signs of a confrontation."

"We've since closed off the area but considering Ogawa is busy and we also had you as an investigator Maria, you'll be taking the lead," Genjuro explained, "Understood?"

"Yes," Maria replied, "While there is some concern I'll trust in Rintaro and Kanade to keep me safe."

"We won't let you down," Rintaro said.

"Hopefully it'll just be a simple investigation," Kanade said.

"Well let's hope someone didn't jinx us," Maria remarked as she glanced at Kanade, "Especially since all the pressure of fighting is not on me this time."

"Ooh, snappy," Kanade grinned at that, "Don't worry, Rintaro and I will help get the job done."

Within a mostly stripped down CEO's office, the man that Gaze had met the prior day was currently tied down to a rolling chair at the center.

"This is really unnerving me," the man admitted as he thrashed around, trying to get out, "Where did you even bring me?!"

"Just a company that went out of business," Gaze admitted as he was sitting on the desk, "It's a very intriguing history, what with the Demia scandal I assumed Deep Connect would have gone under immediately. But it only just now buckled under its own weight, such perseverance though fate works in mysterious ways regardless…"

"What do you mean?" the man questioned, a bit curious as to what his captor was even talking about.

"The Demia incident is connected to the data found in the computer alongside the supplies me and my allies took," Gaze replied, "Utilizing what's left of this company as the cornerstone of my plan works nicely."

"And how do I even fit into this?" the man asked, still not liking this situation, "You keep mentioning experiments and plans, what the hell do you even want?!"

"Please stop yelling," Gaze sighed as he held up a strange eyeball-like device with a button on the side, the area near the desk warping and forming a portal which a Phantom Megid stepped out of. He then held the device towards the Phantom Megid as his eye shined brightly.

The headband on the Phantom Megid shined brightly as its body was soon converted into energy that entered the eye-like device before it pulsated with black energy. The button was soon pressed, a strange emblem flashing as an announcement was heard.

[ULTIMA!]

"Now then, please show me something interesting with this Eyecon," Gaze said as he tossed the device forward, the Eyecon suddenly launching forward at high speeds before entering the man's body in an instant.

The man yelled out as he suddenly broke through his bindings, soon spreading his arms out as a bright white flashed over him. He had transformed into a black suited creature with white armor covering most of his body. The armor held gold intricate detailing as his white face-like helmet was framed with gold and a few white pieces of detailing. At its waist was a gold buckle with a stylized eye at the center, making the being almost Rider-like in essence.

This wasn't exactly an ideal situation however as the newly created Ultima suddenly began yelling out while grasping its head, unable to think clearly. The Phantom Megid and Human aspects of this transformed individual were clearly at odds with each other.

"Hmm, not the best result…" Gaze stated as he tapped a finger against his chin, trying to figure out how to get a better result than a mindless Ultima. He needed something to overwhelm the two sides and get them under control only to gasp as he had the perfect solution, "That's it!"

Gaze soon drew out the Ultimate Bahamut Ride Book, walking over to the Ultima which was still holding its head while hunched over now. He unleashed a quick pulse of energy to force it into a prone state before slamming the Ride Book against the Ultima's chest. The result was him pushing it into the Ultima so that it could mix with everything else.

[ULTIMA!]

A burst of black fire forced Gaze back, the white of the Ultima's body being stained black and turning it into an Ultima Ebony as its body began to grow docile. That didn't last long however as black flames erupted from the armoring, slowly but surely burning away the monstrous body and forming new armor.

[ULTIMATE BAHAMUT!]

Soon enough the fires faded to reveal a familiar suit, the Ultima Ebony had transformed into what appeared to be Saber in his Ultimate Bahamut form. However there was one key difference, the Swordriver and holsters were not around the waist. Instead a gold belt strap and buckle similar to Calibur's was in its place, Ultimate Bahamut opened and set in it.

"Incredible," Gaze stared in awe only to wince and brace when an invisible force was unleashed from the armored warrior who stayed still. Despite this he could only laugh at his Rider-like creation, "Just what I'd expect from a book such as Ultimate Bahamut!"

"Bahamut…?" the new being repeated only to yell out as he unleashed another invisible pulse while raising his arms. Soon enough black fire erupted from his body as he crouched slightly before launching upwards through the ceiling, tearing through it and any other part of the building in the way in order to launch out of the building and into the sky.

"Well now…" Gaze stared at the hole before looking over at the office window which provided a good view of the city, watching as a black fireball hurtled down towards it, "Not the best case scenario since I'll have to follow to make sure he sticks around. Though I suppose he will keep SONG's eyes divided. Especially considering I've already started on making sure they'd be distracted regardless…"

Miku let out a few heavy breaths as she ran into an abandoned warehouse. She was quick in raising a wooden sword as Ogawa had flipped into view, bringing his own sword down at her. She forced him back before quickly twirling away from another sword swing, stopping on a dime and raising her sword, the point facing down as she blocked a swing from Touma who had moved in.

Touma let out a yelp as he was forced back, quickly avoiding a stab only for Miku to back off once Ogawa moved back in. He gripped his practice sword and rushed back in to assist Ogawa. The Swordsman of Wind and Fire were an odd combination in that they hadn't fought together. But the two were fairing quite well, while Touma was one for high and loose swings, Ogawa was more precise, going for lower and more middle leveled swings to keep Touma from being overwhelmed.

Miku slashed forward against Ogawa who managed to duck while forcing her practice sword down, Touma swinging his at Miku now that Ogawa was out of the way. Miku let out a light gasp as she nearly lost her balance, catching herself while avoiding the various strikes from the Swordsmen before her.

Watching the three from further away was Daishinji, having asked Touma and Ogawa to spar against Miku today. They had each sparred individually in a flat more open arena, but now it came time to increase the difficulty.

"As impressive as always," he said as he watched the three go at it, "This should help you refine a style that works well for you."

Miku was on the defensive, though it was clear she was trying to figure out how to outmaneuver the two. Eventually she had gone for more offense against Touma since he wasn't as seasoned as Ogawa was. She'd compensate by playing defense and going for more careful strikes while trying to make sure she didn't lose sight of him. Eventually the three got into a lock once Ogawa and Touma had gone for a combined cross-slash, Miku managing to stop it by holding the hilt and blade of her practice sword while keeping herself grounded.

"That's enough!" Daishinji called out as he clapped a few times, "Let's take a quick break."

"Whew," Touma let out a light gasp as he pulled back alongside the others, "You're really good at this Miku."

"You're no slouch either," Miku replied, "Though that goes double for Ogawa."

"I appreciate the kind words," Ogawa let out a smile.

"That said, are you starting to figure it out?" Daishinji asked as he walked over, "Your style I mean."

"I think I've got ideas," Miku nodded, "Practicing alongside you all, plus with what Tsubasa is able to show me has definitely helped."

"Why didn't we call her in for this today?" Touma asked.

"I wanted two different levels for Miku to go up against," Daishinji admitted, "You and Ogawa are further apart from Tsubasa and him in terms of sword skill."

"A smart idea," Ogawa replied, "Especially because Touma and I haven't really fought in tandem either."

"Our lack of synergy ended up making things a lot more chaotic," Touma agreed.

"Which is the perfect practice," Daishinji said as he held a finger up, "It's random enough to keep Miku from getting an actual pattern down."

"So what's next after we relax a bit?" Touma asked.

"I'm thinking we can get a practical match between you and Ogawa in," Daishinji suggested, "Have the two of you transform and go at each other with your own styles to give Miku some more ideas."

"That sounds good," Miku nodded.

"In the meantime I'll go check in and see how everyone's doing," Ogawa suggested as he drew out his communicator.

"Sounds good," Daishinji said before he heard a sudden faint whistling sound before turning towards the entrance, "Huh?!"

Energy slashes impacted against the ground, sparks flying as the four were sent staggering back. Everyone quickly got in defensive stances while keeping on guard, watching as a silhouette began to walk into view from the brightly lit entrance.

A Rider-like figure similar to Ultima had made its way into the warehouse. It had a light-bluish green body with silver armoring and detailing. The head was entirely silver with a clear blue wis-like horn, a singular visor with an eye visible from behind. Of course it also had the same buckle Ultima had as well.

[SUPERIOR!]

"Hold up," Touma said as he could only stare in confusion, "Just who is this guy?"

"Is it a new Megid type?" Ogawa asked.

"He doesn't look like a Megid," Miku said, noticing the clear differences in design philosophy.

"Why are you here?" Daishinji questioned as he kept his guarded stance, "How did you find us?"

Superior said nothing before rushing forward, raising its fists as it charged for the group.

"Not on my watch!" Touma called out as he rushed forward, preparing his Swordriver and Brave Dragon, "Henshin!"

[REKKA BATTOU! BRAVE DRAGON~!]

Saber let out a shout as he slashed past the Superior, turning on a dime and slashing down again. He managed to strike the Superior just as it turned, sparks flying as it staggered back. Superior however countered by thrusting its hand out, unleashing short energy pulses that forced Saber to leap back.

"Alright," Ogawa quickly went to bring out Hayate, "Let's try and-"

"Hold on a moment," Daishinji said as he raised a hand, "That might be what this thing wants."

"You really think so?" Ogawa asked.

"Why else would it attack us alone?" Daishinji questioned.

"Then we just let Touma handle it?" Miku asked.

"Until we can figure out what exactly it is," Daishinji said before turning towards Ogawa, "Find cover and call Command, let them know what's going on."

"On it," Ogawa nodded before leaping away and into the shadows of the warehouse.

Saber meanwhile ducked under a punch, stabbing the Superior before following up with a slash. To his surprise the Superior blocked with its arm, wrapping it around the blade and reeling Saber before sucker punching the Rider in the face.

Superior quickly let go while kicking Saber away, unleashing more energy pulses that forced the Rider back further.

"I knew it, it's learning," Daishinji said, noticing how the Superior was becoming more aggressive, "We need to blindside it entirely."

"But how do we do that?" Miku asked.

"We need something it would never expect," Daishinji said before looking directly at Miku, "I know this is a lot to ask, but you need to transform."

"Wait, what?!" Miku asked in shock as her eyes widened.

"Eh?" Saber questioned, having heard this as he was currently grappling with his Superior, "Isn't this a bit too sudden?!"

"Yes, but her unpredictability and still building style combined with your experience and power might just be what we need," Daishinji called out, "Just trust me on this!"

"But can she even transform?!" Saber questioned as he kicked Superior away.

"Of course she can!" Daishinji called out in complete confidence, "She's gone a lot farther than most trainees have in what time she's had!"

"I…" Miku trailed before shaking her head and taking a deep breath before preparing her Swordriver and bringing out Lamp Do Alangina, soon opening her eyes and giving a determined stare, "I'll try it!"

[LAMP DO ALANGINA!]

Miku loaded the Ride Book into the Story Slot before gripping Ikazuchi tightly, "Henshin!"

…

…

…

"Huh?" Saber looked over in surprise, "What's going on?"

Superior had turned when it heard Miku's shout only to tilt its head in confusion.

"No way," Daishinji said in shock as he saw what was going on, "I was sure that would work."

"What?" Miku grunted as Ikazuchi was not allowing itself to be drawn, wincing when she pulled so hard her hand ended up flying off the handle due to how stuck it was, "Why can't I draw out Ikazuchi?"

Superior simply turned back towards Saber before rushing for him, Saber turning with a yelp and blocking an incoming punch with the flat of his blade.

"Huh?" Miku looked over to see the fight continuing as she gripped her hands tightly. She pulled at Ikazuchi again only for there to be no budge in it whatsoever, "Alright…" she muttered as she realized that she couldn't waste time attempting to transform.

Saber managed to unleash a burst of fire from Rekka, forcing Superior back before he turned as a glint caught his eye. He yelped as he caught Lamp Do Alangina, "Huh?"

"Touma, use it!" Miku called out.

"Alright, I will," Saber said as he removed Storm Eagle and prepared Lamp do Alangina, "Let's go, Ikazuchi!"

[REKKA BATTOU!]

A burst of fire and electricity occurred as Saber gained the armoring of Lamp Do Alangina on his left half. While the transformation took place, Ikazuchi vanished out of Miku's Swordriver with it forming in Saber's hand.

[WONDER RIDER! DRAGON! ALANGINA!]

Saber looked over at Miku who simply nodded at him, the Rider nodding back as he leapt upwards to avoid a grab by the Superior. He gathered fire and electricity within their respective Seiken before unleashing a cross slash of dual elements that crashed down against his still unknown opponent.

"It's not a new Rider, but I bet this will keep you guessing," Saber said as he brandished both Rekka and Ikazuchi.

Miku pumped her fists, glad to see that her friend had the advantage again. She couldn't help but let out a short breath and glance down at her empty Swordriver though.

"Miku," Daishinji muttered as he saw this.

"I must say, that was a rather quaint place," Tsubasa said as she exited the store with the others, having a small bag as she had bought a book that caught her interest.

"Told you so," Chris said with a smirk as she had a big bag that held some manga and two model kits inside.

"Hmm," Yuri crossed his arms.

"What's the matter Yuri?" Hibiki asked, "Not excited because nothing really peaked your interest?"

"No, that one Manga with the swordsman in the black coat and fish that Chris bought caught my interest," Yuri replied, before tilting his head briefly, "But something feels off today."

"Wait if it caught your interest then why didn't you buy it?" Chris asked, completely ignoring Yuri's concerns.

"I do not have money," Yuri answered as if it was obvious, "And I figured it would be a waste since we know each other."

"I am not going to turn myself into a library for you," Chris said in near deadpan as she glared at her ally.

"Regardless, something does feel off," Yuri said, choosing to backtrack in his conversation "I'm not sure what though."

"There's not much we can do however," Tsubasa replied, "We've yet to-"

It didn't take long for a brief bright flash in the distance to be seen, a distinct crashing sound being heard as well alongside screams with people running into view.

"I feel like someone jinxed us," Chris glanced towards Yuri who remained stone-faced despite the accusation.

"That doesn't look good," Hibiki said, "Another Megid attack? Or is it Alca-Noise?"

"I think there's only one way to find out," Chris said as she glanced towards Tsubasa.

"Of course," Tsubasa said as she quickly drew out her communicator to contact SONG HQ, "Commanders, this is Tsubasa, we've got a disturbance occurring near our location."

"Another disturbance…?" Genjuro asked in surprise, "We'll look into accessing the cameras in that area but you're clear to investigate. We haven't detected any Alca-Noise or Megid on our sensors. So proceed with caution and transform if needed."

"Understood," Tsubasa said, catching the phrasing of 'another' in her uncle's words before hanging up and looking over, "It's not Alca-Noise or a Megid, but we're to investigate immediately."

"It would be poor form to do so like this," Yuri noted as he went to take Tsubasa's and Chris' bags, "I will take these back to Touma's shop."

"Are you sure?" Chris asked with a raised brow, not really minding it but questioning the decision, "We can just put them aside."

"No, too much risk," Yuri shook his head, "Besides if it's not a Megid then there is no need for me to intervene."

"He has a point Yukine," Tsubasa replied, "Besides we don't have time to waste."

"Yeah, we should make sure no one's hurt from whatever that crash was," Hibiki agreed.

"Fine," Chris groaned out before hurrying off with Tsubasa and Hibiki while Yuri went to return to Fantastic Bookstore Kamiyama.

It didn't take long for the trio to make their way to the impact zone, black fires raging upwards and obscuring an armored shape amidst them.

"What the hell?" Chris asked as she stared at the black fire,

"These flames," Tsubasa narrowed her eyes, "They seem…"

"Familiar," Hibiki finished for her friend before letting out a gasp in realization, "Aren't those?!"

It wasn't long before the flames spread outwards and suddenly dispersed to reveal a familiar sight. It was the armor being that Gaze had created but to the three Wielders this was the same armor that Touma wore when accessing Ultimate Bahamut. The clear difference was the lack of Kaenken Rekka as they noted the buckle similar to Calibur's.

"How did someone get their hands on that book?" Tsubasa asked.

"How did they transform more importantly!" Chris called out in shock.

"Is… is he alright?" Hibiki asked, breaking her two friends out of their shock when they realized how exactly the armored man in front of them was acting.

The armored being created by Gaze was currently grasping his chest and head, letting out audible gasps of pain.

"You're right," Chris realized, "What's going on?"

"This might not be as normal as we think it might be," Tsubasa said.

"I want to talk to him, he hasn't hurt anyone yet," Hibiki said, ready to step forward when both her friends grabbed her shoulders, "Huh?"

"While I understand the sentiment Tachibana," Tsubasa said as she drew out her pendant, "We should be prepared in case he retaliates."

"Yeah, there's no telling how he'll react," Chris agreed, "We'll talk but we need to make sure we can defend ourselves."

"Right," Hibiki nodded as she drew out her pendant, starting to sing alongside Tsubasa and Chris.

The armored being meanwhile let out a groan as he tried to focus himself, but too much information was assaulting his senses all at once. Whether it was the overwhelming fear and dread of dying from the man whom Gaze had taken, the strange otherworldly technology of the device that absorbed the Phantom Megid trying to subsume him too, or even the Phantom Megid's insatiable desire for more food trying to drown that all out.

Buried underneath that all were faint voices… a faint promise… slowly but surely fading…

Then he suddenly heard singing…

"Huh?" the armored being managed to push down all the conflicting feelings as he saw flashes of orange, blue, and red in front of him.

{SG-r01: Amenohabakiri}

{SG-r02: Ichaival}

{SG-r03': Gungnir}

Tsubasa, Chris and Hibiki were now in their Symphogears, the trio noticing that Bahamut was now staring directly at them. Tsubasa and Chris each nodded when Hibiki looked over at them, the two not drawing out their Armed Gears yet.

"Hey," Hibiki said as she noticed this, carefully approaching while holding her hands out in a non-threatening way, "Are… are you alright?"

"I… don't know…" the armored being spoke up suddenly realizing he was able to look around and began to look himself over, "What… what am I?"

"Huh?" Hibiki perked up at the way the armored being was talking, "Do you not have any memories?"

"Everything's… blurry…" the armored being admitted with a low groan as he held his head, "I can't remember… I'm only now just… just awake… why am I awake?"

"Slow down a bit," Hibiki said as she kept her hands up, "So you don't know your name…"

"I don't…" the armored being shook his head, "It's, frustrating…"

"Command," Tsubasa said as she put a hand up to her headset, "Are you seeing this?"

"We are," Sophia confirmed, "Sakuya and Aoi have also confirmed readings that indicate Ultimate Bahamut is in usage."

"It's the real deal then," Chris said.

"Indeed," Genjuro replied.

"We were barely able to figure it out too," Sakuya spoke up, "There's a lot of interference with Bahamut's signal for some reason."

"You think that's why he's like this?" Chris asked.

"Perhaps," Tsbuasa replied, now curious on if there was a correlation, "Can you try and isolate what's interfering with it?"

"We'll try," Aoi responded.

Tsubasa and Chris meanwhile stayed where they were, readying themselves just in case they needed to jump in.

"I can only imagine how frustrating and confusing this might be," Hibiki admitted in a soft tone before putting a hand to her chin before snapping her fingers, "Does the name Bahamut ring any bells?"

"Bahamut…" the armored being repeated before grunting and grasping his head before letting out as gasp as he staggered back, "That's…"

"Did I say something wrong?" Hibiki asked.

"No… that name was familiar," Bahamut said as he shook his head only to shake it further in frustration as if his confusion wasn't clearing up despite this, "But, what am I?"

"I mean you look like a Kamen Rider," Hibiki said, "But I don't think you are one."

"Then what am I?" Bahaumt questioned in a frustrated voice, stepping forward with a strong stomp, "I am Bahamut, but what exactly am I?!"

"Eh?" Hibiki stared in surprise at the frustration before quickly crossing her arms to block against a punch from Bahamut, "Calm down!"

"Nothing makes any sense!" Bahamut yelled out before letting out a gasp as Hibiki forced his fist back. He raised his leg, black fire erupting from his foot as he slammed it down against Hibiki who backed away, "Why doesn't it make any sense?!"

"Slow down a bit!" Hibiki called out, "Just take a deep breath."

Bahamut seemed to take this advice, only for Hibiki to notice that blue flames were gathering at the dragon head that was on the Rider-like entity's chest. Bahamut soon let out a harsh breath as the fireball launched towards the Symphogear Wielder. It was suddenly intercepted and dispersed by multiple red energy arrows.

"Shouting and fighting aren't going to help you!" Chris called out as she quickly landed beside Hibiki.

"You must focus and calm yourself!" Tsubasa called out in a stern firm tone as she drew out her sword while standing beside the two, "Fighting mindlessly like this won't help you!"

'Fighting', that was a word that Bahamut paused at that. It resonated deeply within him as he went to take a step back while lowering his head. He began to take a deep breath, then another, and another, seemingly calming himself down. The three Symphogear Wielders eyed him warily as he began to take a fighting stance.

"What's going on?" Chris asked.

"Is he taking my advice to heart?" Tsubasa questioned.

"There is but one thing etched into my very soul," Bahamut said as he firmed up his stance, "And that is to fight!"

"Eh?" Hibiki stared in surprise, "But-"

"Now allow me to release this burning feeling within my heart!" Bahamut shouted as he launched towards the three Symphogear Wielders who entered defensive stances, "Let's go!"

The three Wielders quickly leapt back while lifting up off the ground as Bahamut slammed his fist into the ground, a crater forming as the ground shattered.

"You gave him terrible advice!" Chris called out.

"There's no point in blaming one another for anything!" Tsubasa called out, "For now we fight!"

"Right," Hibiki nodded as she watched Bahamut leap towards her, batting away a left hook before striking with one of her own, Bahamut bracing with his right arm.

Watching the fight undetected from a building was Gaze. He was simply staring at the scene in interest as while the three Wielders confronting Bahamut wasn't ideal, their meeting was causing them to mold Bahamut into something more complete.

"So this is it, huh?" Kanade asked.

"Yes," Maria said.

The two were currently inside the storage shack that had been identified by SONG. The area had been turned into a mess, likely by Gaze in an attempt to keep things seemingly hidden.

"You sure you just want the two of us in here?" Kanade asked.

"It lessens the chance that someone from outside will get the jump on us," Maria answered as she began to look around, "Now come on, clearly there's something here if it's a mess like this."

"Right," Kanade said as she began to look around with Maria before noticing a strange gap in the floor that was mostly covered by a metal shelf, "Hey, what the heck?"

"Did you find something?" Maria asked as she was looking in a corner along with the walls for any clues.

"Yeah," Kanade said with a grunt as she managed to lift the metal shelf, tossing it to the side as dust was kicked up. She coughed a bit and waved away the dust before her eyes widened, "Jackpot."

"Oh?" Maria looked over before seeing Kanade standing near a gap in the floor, a clear ladder visible, "What do we have here?"

"The passage to an evil secret lair," Kanade said as she went to start climbing down the ladder.

"Please be serious," Maria rolled her eyes as she went to follow.

"I mean considering what we do on a daily basis, I'm not really joking," Kanade remarked as she continued downwards.

"I meant in your tone," Maria sighed.

Eventually the two reached the bottom of the tunnel, the dimly lit bunker room managing to shine light in the shallow tunnel they were now in due to the doors still being busted down.

"Yep, we totally hit the jackpot," Kanade said as she stared at the destroyed entrance.

"We'll see about that," Maria said as she went to look around before stepping on something. She had assumed it was a piece of debris but surprisingly it wasn't. It was a flash drive of all things, "A flash drive? And it looks like it's a recent drop as well."

"Huh, weird that it's just lying on the floor," Kanade replied, "Think our 'friend' got a bit reckless?"

"There's the potential for that, yes," Maria said as she went to pocket the flash drive, "This will be useful once we get our experts to look at it."

"Well that's one clue," Kanade said as she looked around, noticing that the place was rather sparse for a bunker area. In fact some spots were a lot cleaner compared to others, as if objects had only just been removed, "Something tells me that whoever was in here decided to leave with a bunch of stuff."

"The question is how they managed to take whatever back there that was clearly hefty," Maria pointed towards the back, it being the most noticeable that something had been moved.

"Then let's see what else we can find," Kanade said as she looked around before noticing a toolbox that wasn't touched, "Huh…" she trailed as she walked over and went to open it up. She coughed a bit at the dust nearly exploding out before noticing while there were random tools in it, there was a fairly thick but small journal of all things buried beneath, "Oh, bingo…"

Rintaro was currently waiting outside while keeping watch, trying to stay vigilant as he only had his own thoughts to keep him company. SONG's agents had set up a perimeter and were in the area, but he was the only one near the shack. Despite the sense of boredom slowly creeping in he shook his head, realizing that he had a very important job.

There was no telling if Sabela and Durendal would show up, or if the Megid would try and take advantage of the situation.

"Hey, what are you doing-gah!"

"What?" Rintaro jolted into action as he drew out his Swordriver, watching as several agents were thrown along the ground, various cuts on them, "I knew it, a Megid-"

"So I see they have someone guarding this place," a black suited monster with blue eyes walked into view, having the same buckle as the others. It had an elegant white armored body with blue sleeves and a blue skirt piece, gold detailing lining the armor pieces, "It was the right move to send me."

"Who are you?" Rintaro asked, recognizing that this wasn't a Megid he was facing as he prepared his Swordriver alongside Lion Senki, "Why are you here?"

"I am a Ganma, more specifically the Katchu Ganma," the now designated Ganma said as it brandished its saber, "I am here to dispose of this location, so step aside and allow me to perform my duty."

"I will not, my precious family is in there," Rintaro said with narrow eyes as he drew out Nagare, performing his transformation slashes, "Henshin!"

[NAGARE BATTOU! LION SENKI!]

"If there are others in there then I must hurry and dispose of you," the Katchu Ganma said before shaking its head, holding its sword upwards with both hands, "Have at you!"

"Here I go," Blades said as the transformation completed, brandishing Nagare before rushing towards the Ganma before him.

Fire and electricity lashed out as Saber swung forward, managing to force Superior back as sparks flew.

"How do you like that?" Saber asked.

The Superior yelled out, energy gathering around it and lashing out as it gained additions to its appearance and arsenal. It now had a gold hooded coat with similar aesthetics to its design, alongside a large gold broadsword that it held in its hand, resting it on its shoulder.

[SUPERIOR PERFECT!]

"So it can evolve?" Ogawa asked as he rushed back in, "I've informed the others though we might be too spread thin for backup."

"Not good," Daishinji said, not enjoying the odd feeling this Superior Perfect was giving out.

"Touma can handle it," Miku said with a tone of certainty, putting her faith in her friend.

The Superior Perfect charged forward, bringing its sword down on Saber who backed away. The Rider rushed in to slash, Superior Perfect simply raising his sword while swinging it out to deflect the slashes. The enhanced enemy then stabbed the blade into the ground, unelashing a wave of energy that struck Saber and knocked him back.

"Jeez, am I really going to have to go Dragonic Knight for this?" Saber questioned.

"Looks like we're going to need to get in on this," Daishinji said as he brought out Suzune.

"We'll need to end this quickly before it evolves further," Ogawa agreed as he drew out Hayate, "Let's-"

[EYE!]

"Eh?" Miku and the others began to look around at the abrupt announcement.

Suddenly a black and white blur suddenly flying into view, smacking into Superior Perfect before floating around Saber in a friendly manner despite the Rider's defensive stance. It moving more slowly revealed it to be a black almost ethereal parka with white accents and two white glowing eyes.

[BATCHIRIMINA! BATCHIRIMINA! BATCHIRIMINA!]

"Henshin!"

The shout had caught everyone's attention as they turned towards the source of it. Unfortunately they were unable to see who as a bright light had covered them before dispersing, revealing a black armored body with white bone detailing and an eye-like a purple sigil on the chest. Their helmets visor was blank however, simply being circular lines growing out from the center.

[KAIGAN! ORE!]

That was until the ghostly parka flew towards the bare armored individual, floating around before coming from behind and slipping onto him. A visor slid out from below the shin, it being primarily white with two round black eyes, a wispy horn protruding from the forehead.

[LET'S GO! KAKUGO! GO GO GO! GHOST! GO! GO! GO! GO!]

Around the individual's waist was an orange belt. It connected to an oval face-like belt with an orange lever that was covered by a barely translucent cover, it acting like a sheet of sorts.

"Whoa," Saber stared in awe, "Is that…"

"…a new Kamen Rider?" Miku finished her friend's question.

"I've never seen one like him before," Ogawa admitted.

"Just who is he?" Daishinji questioned.

"I'm Kamen Rider Ghost," the Rider introduced as he pulled his hood back before holding his hands out while getting in a stance, the eyehole of his Driver releasing energy and forming a large blade, "Allow me to help!"

[GAN GUN SABER!]

Superior Perfect turned towards Ghost almost instantly, quickly rushing towards the newcomer and slashing several times. Much to its frustration however, Ghost was able to dodge every one of its strikes with fairly fluid and near ethereal movements.

Ghost quickly parried the last strike before slipping past and slashing past the Superior Perfect's gut.

"Incredible," Saber said in awe.

"His movements are something else," Miku said as her eyes widened, realizing that this Rider was definitely more experienced than most.

"Of course they are," a familiar yet robotic voice spoke up near Miku, "The kid's been at it for years!"

"Huh?" Daishinji perked up and froze at the suddenly familiar voice, "That's…"

"Eh?" Miku turned in surprise as she could have sworn she heard Hibiki's voice next to her, "Hibiki what-EH?!"

Floating near Miku, Daishinji and Ogawa was a blue bodied chibi-like ghost with a silver head and cape. The head had a circular blue eye with a wisp protruding from it.

"What even…?" Ogawa asked.

"What?" the ghost-like being remarked, "Why are you all staring at the Great Robosen like that?"

"Great Robosen…?" Miku asked before shaking her head, "Sorry, for a second I thought you were my friend, your voice sounded similar."

"Eh? Sounds like she lucked out in the voice department then," Robosen remarked with a giggle.

"Touma, get in there and help him," Daishinji said as he tried to focus on the fight at hand for the moment, still surprised at Robosen's similar voice and needing a distraction, "Try and end this quickly!"

"Right," Saber turned with a brief nod towards the others before hurrying for the fight at hand.

Ghost had managed to dodge back from a swing before yelping as the Superior Perfect was quick to counter with a stab. He quickly raised the flat of his sword and blocked against the stab, wincing as he tried to push the stab away.

[LAMP DO ALANGINA!]

[BRAVE DRAGON!]

The Lamp do Alangina suddenly erupted from behind the Superior Perfect, grabbing and holding the Ganma's arms at its side, forcing it away from Ghost. Soon enough the Brave Dragon came into view from above, it spinning rapidly and becoming a wheel of fire that slammed into Superior Perfect, grinding against it before exploding outwards into fire.

"Hey there, I'm Kamen Rider Saber," Saber introduced himself as he hurried over, "Mind if I lend you a hand?"

"If you could," Ghost nodded as he glanced down at Saber's waist, taking note of the Ride Books slotted in place, "Once this is over I can maybe explain everything."

"I take it this sudden attack is new for you," Saber said, noticing the wording.

"You could say that…" Ghost trailed as he went to brandish his sword alongside Saber, "Let's go!"

Blades let out a yell as he clashed blades with the Katchu Ganma, the two trying to overwhelm each other with their strength. They backed away before closing in again, swinging their swords and clashing briefly several times.

"What impeccable swordsmanship," Blades admitted as he held his blade up in defense.

"I agree," the Katchu Ganma said as it brandished its blade before fire erupted from it, "However I will not back down!"

"Nor will I," Blades said as he slotted his blade into his Hissatsuholder.

[NAGARE IAI!]

Water spiraled around Nagare as Blades unhooked it from his holster, slashing forward and unleashing a burst of spiraling water against the wave of flames the Katchu Ganma sent out.

[DOKUGO ISSEN!]

The two attacks clashed and caused a burst of steam to occur, the Katchu Ganma stepping backwards in surprise while Blades took the initiative.

[HISSATSU DOKUHA!]

Setting Nagare in his Swordriver he leapt upwards, the steam and moisture gathering around his leg before forming a spiraling burst of water around his boot.

[LION ISSATSU GEKI! WATER!]

The Katchu Ganma quickly raised its blade and braced with both hands, Blades' kick clashing against it as a watery explosion occurred. The Ganma screamed out as it was thrown backwards, managing to just barely block the finisher.

"Incredible," Blades gave a gasp as he landed on his knee before standing in a hurry as he reached for another Ride Book, "I suppose…"

"Hey, what's going on here?" Kanade called out as she and Maria exited the shack before noticing the Ganma, "The hell is that?"

"That's not a Megid," Maria said as she was currently holding onto a small box of the items they were able to recover.

"So there was still valuable information here," the Katchu Ganma said as it stood up, raising its blade before watching as Kanade hurried to Blades' side while drawing out a Driver, "On the other hand…"

"It would be wise for you to leave," Blades suggested as he took a defensive stance.

"My Master may not like that," the Katchu Ganma admitted before turning, "However it would be smart for me to take that offer."

"Wow, a smart one," Kanade said in surprise as she watched the Ganma hurry off before looking over at her ally, "You alright?"

"Yeah," Blades nodded, "What about you two? Did you find anything?"

"Considering that monster's reaction," Maria said as she looked down at the box she was holding, "Yes."

"Then we should head back to base," Blades suggested.

Hibiki let out a few yelps as she backed away, defending against several wild strikes by Bahamut. She managed to bat away a punch before punching herself, Bahamut managing to match her as a shockwave was unleashed from their fists connecting.

It didn't take long for Tsubasa to slip between the two, managing to strike against the Rider-like entity several times, sparks flying.

{MEGA DETH PARTY}

"Let's see how you like this!" Chris shouted as she unleashed a flurry of missiles against Bahamut.

The Rider-like entity leapt upwards with a growl, blue fire erupting from the mouths on his armor before spiraling around and forming a shield of flames. The missiles crashed against the shield and detonated near instantly, covering Bahamut in smoke.

It wasn't long before Bahamut launched out of the smoke unharmed, slamming down at Chris who leapt backwards to dodge. He then raised his arms, blocking a punch and slash from Hibiki and Tsubasa respectively. By letting out a shout, the dragon armoring resonating and roared out as Hibiki and Tsubasa were forced backwards, the two regrouping with Chris.

"Damn!" Chris called out, "Just what's with this power?!"

"Considering its Ultimate Bahamut, this shouldn't be a surprise," Tsubasa said before holding a hand to her headset, "Command, what's the situation?"

"Shirabe and Kirika are the only ones free right now," Genjuro answered, "But even it'll take some time for them to get there,"

"We're observing the fight right now and it looks like you're going to need to go all out to push through," Sophia suggested, "Especially considering your opponent."

"Understood," Tsubasa said before grasping her pendant, "Tachibana, Yukine, we're using Ignite."

"Looks like we've got no choice," Chris remarked, "I'm with you."

"I'm still not sure," Hibiki admitted but grasped her pendant alongside Chris regardless, "But if it'll help him calm down, then I'm with you too."

"Considering this is the most focused he's been, we might be on the right track," Tsubasa replied before steeling herself, "And if that's the case…"

"Ignite Module! Bakken!"

{Dáinsleif}

The trio all shouted as their pendants changed shape and struck their chests, being engulfed by black energy outlined by red. Soon enough the energy was torn away to reveal the trio's Ignite Symphogears.

Bahamut gasped as his stance faltered, feeling a pulsation go through him. He held his chest gently as he looked towards the group curiously. Of course a strange pulsation also went through the three Wielders.

"Huh?" Hibiki yelped, "What was that?"

"Don't know," Chris replied, "Seemed like a quick hiccup."

"Hiccup or not, let's go!" Tsubasa called out as she charged forward, Hibiki and Chris following after her, "We're on a time limit, remember?"

Bahamut let out a shout as he charged forward to meet the group, planning on striking against Tsubasa. To his surprise however Hibiki immediately slipped past Tsubasa, the Wielder slamming her elbow into his gut. He could only cough out at this, ready to grab at Hibiki only for the end of a rifle to smack into his face.

{RED HOT BLAZE}

Chris had combined and extended her Armed Gear into its rifle form, smacking Bahamut back with it before flipping it around and firing almost immediately. The piercing beam hit its mark against the warrior, Bahamut sent skidding backwards.

The center of Tsubasa's blade split open, energy gathering rapidly as she rushed in and struck against the prone Bahamut several times. She then brought down her sword with both hands, energy erupting from the between the split halves of the blade.

{Blue Flash}

Bahamut gasped out as he was sent stumbling backwards only to watch as a fireball hurtled towards him, Hibiki's yell growing louder as it got closer. Bahamut let out a defiant shout, gathering his energy and thrusting forward with his palms, managing to catch the fireball and clash against it.

"I'm not… giving up!" Hibiki shouted though despite this she was slowly being pushed to a standstill.

"He's able to hold the dummy back still?!" Chris questioned.

"If that's the case then let us assist her, Yukine!" Tsubasa called out as she launched forward.

"If it means ending this now, then fine," Chris called out as she followed after.

Bahamut yelled out as he continued to hold the fireball back, only for bursts of red and blue to come in from behind the fireball. Soon enough it became a tri-colored ball of red, blue, and orange, multiple yells echoing from within it. The Rider-like entity gagged as he lurched forward, his arms faltering slightly as the fireball began to push through. The attack wasn't overwhelming him though as it instead was resonating with his body.

Still watching, Gaze couldn't help but chuckle at these events.

"Looks like we've both gone beyond the form of a Phantom Megid as our presences don't cause issues with Ignite," he stated as he clasped his hands, "Ignite's power being unleashed like this though could prove interesting if everything lines up…"

Bahamut suddenly spread his arms and took the full force of the fireball, grasping and almost hugging it as he yelled out further. Suddenly the dark aura surrounding him wrapped around the fireball before turning it fully black as well. The shouts of the Wielders suddenly turned to screams as all the energy was swallowed into the maws of the dragon heads on Bahamut's armor before a white flash occurred and an invisible force was unleashed.

Hibiki, Tsubasa, and Chris all yelled out as they slammed against the ground, having reverted back to their base Symphogear states in that instant.

"What the hell?" Chris asked with a wince.

"Just what was that?" Hibiki groaned out.

"Something's wrong… something's…" Tsubasa winced before her eyes widened, seeing Bahamut but with a transparent Phantom Megid overlaid on his body. Her eyes could only widen, "Impossible, it was a Phantom Megid?!"

"Is that what the interference was?!" Chris questioned as she stared in shock.

"Yes, we're detecting some kind of Megid-like presence within that entity!" Sakuya confirmed.

"But how were they able to utilize Ignite then?" Aoi questioned.

"That hiccup was because of that?" Hibiki asked but was confused now, "But we shouldn't have been able to transform."

The projection of the Phantom Megid faded with a weak squeal as Bahamut began to breathe heavily, slowly perking up and looking his armored body over. His movements now had something more to them, as if his awareness was increased compared to his previous actions.

"Everything's quiet now," Bahamut stated to himself as he looked over his armored body curiously, "Quiet, yet empty."

"What's even going on?" Chris asked.

"He calmed down utilizing our Ignite?" Tsubasa questioned, "How?"

"Yeah shouldn't that have driven him mad?" Chris asked.

Hibiki however could only stare in surprise at this, "Eh?"

Saber and Ghost slashed against Superior Perfect to force it back. To their surprise the Superior Perfect countered with its own slash, sparks flying as they were forced back. The Superior Perfect immediately stabbed the ground while charging its sword with energy, a shockwave lashing out and striking against them to force them back even further.

"Jeez he packs a punch," Saber admitted as he managed to stand straight, "You've got any ideas?"

"You use books, right?" Ghost asked almost instantly.

"Uh yeah," Saber looked over, "Why?"

"My father entrusted me with this," Ghost said as he drew out an orange covered Ride Book with a gold spine, soon tossing it towards Saber, "He said that I'd know what to do with it when the time came!"

"What?" Saber asked as he caught it before staring at it in shock, the title was 'Ghost Ijinroku', it having an orange variant of Ghost on it with stylized smoke and various parka-like ghosts filling up space on the cover, "A Ride Book, but how do you-?"

"Just use it," Ghost urged.

"Alright then," Saber said as he removed his two Ride Books before opening up Ghost Ijinroku.

[GHOST IJINROKU!]

[The soul of a great man who once lived in history dwells in this body and burns his life bright…]

"Alright… let's go!" Saber called out as he placed the Ride Book into the God Beast slot and initiated the form change, giving a yelp as an orange burst erupted from the now open Ride Book.

The orange burst was an orange sleeveless parka with silver and black armoring. Various helmet-like sigils representing various luminaries of the world were emblazoned on the shoulders and chest which held a similar styling to Ghost's.

[REKKA BATTOU! SHINJUU WO YADOSU LEGEND RIDER! GHOST!]

Saber slashed forward, the flames lighting the parka on fire as it spun around and behind him. Soon enough it slid itself over his armor as he felt a burst of otherworldly power wash over him.

[DENSETSU ISSATSU!]

[Hearts of justice shall annex more power upon this sword!]

"It's just like father said," Ghost said, recognizing the various sigils on Saber's new armor, "The Luminaries would be used to guide the new warrior's way."

"Whoa, I didn't know a Ride Book like that existed," Miku let out a light gasp.

"Because it shouldn't," Daishinji said with a hint of shock yet excitement, "Despite researching the Great Book we've never seen any Ride Book based on a pre-existing Rider."

"I suppose it's just another unprecedented thing today," Ogawa remarked sheepishly.

"Huh," Robosen said as it tilted its body, "So that's what his dad's gift does."

"His dad gave him that book?" Miku asked.

"Yeah, his dad's friend also gave him something similar," Robosen nodded, "To think it belonged to an entirely separate Rider… didn't seem like it at the time…"

"Odd," Miku said as she tilted her head, figuring there was more to the Ride Book than they knew.

Daishinji stayed silent at this information, trying to go through any and all scenarios though there was one likely possibility. He'd just have to hope Ghost and Robosen would be willing to stick around to answer their questions.

"Let's go!" Saber called out as he rushed forward, summoning a copy of the Gan Gun Saber as he closed in.

The Superior Perfect swung his blade, clashing with Saber's cross slash. Despite its great strength, its arm began to shake as Saber shouted and pushed forward further. The emblems on Saber's coat shined brightly as the strength of sixteen great warriors were all combined into one, the Superior Perfect's sword snapping as Saber struck against its body.

"Whoa," Saber let out a light yelp as he looked himself over, "This feels different… like I'm not fighting alone."

"That's the power my father wielded during his time as Ghost," Ghost explained as he hurried over.

"Incredible," Saber said in awe before gesturing towards Superior Perfect with his head, "Let's keep it up then!"

"Right," Ghost nodded as he rushed forward.

Saber and Ghost tore through Superior Perfect in record time thanks to Saber's enhanced form alongside Superior Perfect losing its weapon. The two struck in tandem, Saber managing to get a groove going with Ghost to where the two were able to compliment and cover each other perfectly.

Saber rushed in, performing a cross-slash that sent Superior Perfect staggering back. Ghost meanwhile leapt over Saber, bringing his blade down on the enhanced Superior's head which caused sparks to fly.

"Alright, let's wrap this up," Ghost said as he dismissed his Gan Gun Saber and pumped the lever of his Driver.

"Right," Saber said as he sheathed Rekka and dismissed the replica weapon before tapping his Ride Book.

"My life is going to burn bright," Ghost said as he clasped his hands together in an almost prayer-like stance, a red eye sigil forming behind him and Saber as energy poured into both of their right legs.

Saber meanwhile got into a kicking position as he felt the energy flow through him, "I'll decide how this story ends!"

[DAIKAIGAN! ORE OMEGA DRIVE!]

[GHOST IJINROKU!]

The two leapt upwards before kicking outwards, striking against the Superior Perfect and kicking off of it. The two landed and turned away as the Superior Perfect crackled with electricity, soon yelling and exploding.

"Whoa," Saber said as he raised his arm up.

"Yeah," Ghost nodded as he pressed his forearm against Saber's, "Thanks for going along with all of this despite just having met."

"Well considering my usual job… things suddenly happening is a lot more common than you'd think," Saber chuckled as he dismissed his transformation.

"Speaking of jobs," Daishinji said as he and the others walked over, "We need to talk given you seem to be aware of what just happened."

"Your cooperation would be appreciated," Ogawa said with a kind smile.

"I'll help wherever I can," Ghost said as he disengaged his transformation, revealing a man around his mid-twenties or so. He wore black jeans and a black shirt with white sneakers and a white open button up over his shirt, "I'm Ayumu Tenkuji, it's a pleasure to meet you."

"Touma Kamiya," Touma introduced with a bow.

"And I'm the Great Robosen!" Robosen shouted as floated between the two, "Shower me with praise!"

"Eh?" Touma looked over at Robosen, "Your voice…"

"It's exactly what you're thinking, yeah," Miku said as she walked over.

"Ah right," Touma said as he went to hand Miku back Ikazuchi and Lamp do Alangina, "Thanks for letting me borrow them."

"Its fine," Miku shook her head as she took them back only to stare at them.

Daishinji meanwhile glanced at Miku, wondering exactly why she couldn't transform.

Gaze silently watched as the confrontation between Bahamut and the Wielders had calmed down, reaching into his pocket and drawing out a stone-like shard he now held in his right palm. Gripping it tightly he prepared himself as he'd need to intervene soon.

"Are you alright now?" Hibiki asked, deciding to take the lead again now that Bahamut had seemingly calmed down, "You seemed confused…"

"That's one way of putting it," Bahamut admitted as he looked over at Hibiki, noting a familiarity with her, but he wasn't sure why exactly, "Everything feels quiet, but empty."

"You said that yeah," Hibiki nodded, "What do you mean?"

"When I woke up I felt like I was drowning in a spiral of emotions," Bahamut admitted as he put a hand to his chest, "Nothing clicked together, nothing fit."

"But now it's quiet?" Hibiki asked.

"Yes, but this silence is just as bad," Bahamut replied, "It still feels like something's missing, something important."

"So that's why you said you feel empty," Hibiki said as the armored entity nodded, she then stepped forward and held out a hand, "Maybe we can help you?"

"Help me?" Bahamut asked.

"Whoa hold up," Chris called out, "Think about what you're saying, this guy is-"

"Clearly confused," Tsubasa interrupted, "This is not like anything we've seen yet."

"You're really willing to take this guy in?" Chris asked.

"I want to believe in Tachibana," Tsubasa replied, "Just judging from reports, he's already shown a lot of difference from Hebi-O and Chimaera."

"What do you say?" Hibiki asked as she kept her hand outstretched.

"I…" Bahamut trailed as he began to step towards Hibiki.

"I wouldn't trust them if I were you!"

It didn't take long until Gaze leapt into view, landing between the two but closer to Hibiki. Using his nimble nature he closed in as he got directly in front of the Gungnir Wielder.

"Huh?" Hibiki asked before letting out a gasp, "You're-!"

"That's enough out of you!" Gaze called out as he struck Hibiki in the chest with his right palm, subtly sending in the strange shard while releasing a pulse that knocked her back, "You'd do well to get away from him."

Hibiki let out a gasp, unaware of what happened as she was sent stumbling back, Tsubasa and Chris rushing forward to catch her.

"Who are you?" Bahamut questioned as he took a step back, but couldn't help but feel a familiar presence from Gaze, "What are you?"

"You're Gaze," Tsubasa narrowed her eyes as she answered the armored entity's question, "Leader of the Phantom Megid correct?"

"Ah so the others did tell you about me which means I won't have to introduce myself or my intentions," Gaze said as he clasped his hands together, "That said I'd like to thank you for helping in my experiment."

"What are you talking about?" Bahamut asked.

"You really don't recognize me?" Gaze asked in surprise.

"Wait," Bahamut said before wincing as he recalled his first moments upon waking up, "You were there when I first awoke."

"I did bring you into existence in a way," Gaze nodded, "So of course I'd be there."

"You created me…?" Bahamut could only step back in surprise.

"Indeed," Gaze nodded.

"What exactly is your experiment this time?" Tsubasa questioned, "Creating a Rider-like being?"

"The variables were admittedly heavily unknown but here is what I did," Gaze admitted as he started holding up fingers as he listed off the process, "Ingredient 1: An above average Human in some form. Ingredient 2: Ganma technology powered by a Phantom Megid's essence. 3: A Ride Book, the purified true form of the Books the Megid sought out. Combine them all together and we get Bahamut here!"

"You monster," Tsubasa hissed out, "You casually sacrificed a human for this?"

"He was scum from some cult that practiced alchemy," Gaze answered in a deliberately dull tone, "One that opposed you, so are you really that torn up about it?"

"Hold on, what technology powered by a Phantom Megid?" Chris spoke up as her eyes widened, "Is that why we were able to utilize Ignite without strain and there was only that weird hiccup?"

"Yes, that's exactly it," Gaze pointed towards the gun wielder, "Dampening the Phantom Megid's presence allowed you to access the peak of your negativity. But of course once enough negative energy was present in one spot, the Phantom Megid power source took full control to absorb it."

"Absorb it?" Chris asked.

"Yes, you see when a negative reaction occurs in space and time it results in an anomaly that gives birth to the Phantom Megid," Gaze explained his findings as he had researched as thoroughly as he could, "The question is why this happens, which even I don't know. But the point is, Phantom Megid thrive on negative energy. Now I wasn't expecting us to get to this point, but I'm thankful for you all feeding Bahamut what he needed to gain true awareness."

"So what is the purpose of this experiment?" Tsubasa asked, feeling like they were getting nowhere.

"To see if I could make someone like me, someone beyond a Phantom Megid," Gaze explained as he approached Bahamut, "And I succeeded in making a kindred spirit."

"That's all this was?" Hibiki asked, "You wanted a friend?"

"Friend…?" Bahamut spoke up finally.

"Highly unlikely considering there are apparently other attacks going on at the moment," Tsubasa narrowed her eyes at the claim, "What is your real goal here?"

"Well, he was simply a result of the pieces lining up correctly," Gaze explained, "Spur of the moment, but he'll make a good successor in the end I think."

"Oh cut the bullshit," Chris called out, "You're making it sound like you're going to die."

"I may indeed perish in battle as I'm putting myself in direct conflict with you," Gaze said as he held a hand up before holding his fingers close in a claw-like shape, "Especially as I plan to grasp multiple worlds in order to tear past reality and get the answers I want."

"What?" Hibiki asked in shock, "You'd harm multiple worlds just for answers?"

"I would, because I'm tired of not knowing why I exist," Gaze replied, "So if I must do something drastic, so be it."

"You're worse than Calibur then," Hibiki realized, "Making all those sacrifices in the name of truth…"

"Oh come now, Calibur was a small fry," Gaze scoffed, much to everyone's surprise, "He simply wanted to gather the Great Book to learn the truth of this world. I want to learn what is behind the existence of my kind within the greater cosmos. There's a clear difference."

"The hell there is you damn freak!" Chris called out.

"We'll put a stop to you right now," Tsubasa said as she raised her sword, wincing slightly due to still recovering from the Ignite backlash.

"Sorry to say but I don't want to fight," Gaze said as he walked towards Bahamut, "I simply showed myself to pick up friend Bahamut."

"You all keep using that word, friend," Bahamut said as he stared at Gaze, "Why?"

"While I did give you life and am your creator, I'd like us to not think of each other in that light," Gaze replied as held a hand out, "I'd like to say we're equals, especially in comparison to the other Phantom Megid."

"You did not create me, you reignited my flame," Bahamut corrected almost instinctively, everyone including himself seemed to pause at that but he shook his head, "Why should I go with you?"

"You want to know why you were reignited," Gaze said, choosing to build off of what Bahamut had said, "Why you're suddenly awake now, right?"

"And if I do?" Bahamut asked.

"Then come with me, and we can open the doors to those answers," Gaze said as he held out a hand.

"Wait a minute," Hibiki called out, "You don't have to go with him!"

"And what will you do to help him?" Gaze asked as he looked over, bringing out his Eye Drones as he began to project various digital screens all around the area, "After all, every Phantom Megid you've come across as only faced one answer when it comes to your group."

It showed various battles in parallel worlds against different Phantom Megid, the Riders and Wielders of SONG thoroughly defeating them each and every time.

"That's…" Hibiki trailed before biting her lip.

"He's got us there," Chris muttered while Tsubasa stayed silent, realizing that Gaze had been aware of more of their battles than they realized.

Bahamut stared at Hibiki before walking over to stand beside Gaze, though he did not take his hand and simply crossed his arms.

"I'll take that as a yes," Gaze chuckled before snapping his fingers, opening up a portal to the side before entering into it.

Bahamut glanced back at Hibiki before simply walking into the portal after Gaze.

"We need to get back to base," Tsubasa said.

"We should probably grab Yuri too," Chris added.

Hibiki meanwhile could only stare at where Gaze and Bahamut had left from, curling her hands into fists.

"Bahamut…"

"So what do we tell him?"

"What we saw, it's as simple as that."

Reika and Ryoga approached the doors of Master Logos' viewing room, Ryoga taking initiative and opening them before stepping into the room and getting on a knee. Reika followed after, getting on a knee as she and her brother went to bow their heads.

"I'm aware your mission wasn't successful," Master Logos said in a neutral tone as he stayed in his seat, the televisions lit up with the various battles that had taken place recently on their world, "Care to explain?"

"A strange entity that didn't want to explain itself got in our way," Reika answered, "We tried to fight back but were caught off guard."

"An entity you say?" Master Logos asked curiously.

"Yes, it didn't seem human and had dozens of these eye-like drones accompanying it," Ryoga answered, "They were able to easily counter our movements before we could try anything."

"The best we could do was retreat," Reika replied, "We beg for your-"

"That sounds like the Eye of Argus, yet from what I know that Relic is still intact and very much in our possession," Master Logos interrupted with an amused hum, "Did he give any hint as to what his plan was?"

"No sir," Reika answered.

"You two are to be on standby then," Master Logos answered, "It appears as though this entity revealing itself coincides with an old enemy of this world resurfacing."

"Excuse me?" Ryoga asked, "What do you mean?"

"Just know that for now we are to put aside all missions at the moment," Master Logos continued, his voice holding a clear serious undertone, "If I deem it necessary you are to help SONG with this threat, understood?"

Reika and Ryoga looked at each other in surprise, wondering just what this threat was before going back to staring at the floor.

"Yes sir, it will be done."

It didn't take long for all of SONG's Riders and Wielders to reconvene at their submersible headquarters. Maria had handed off the box that held the journal, flash drive, and a few other notes to Genjuro and Sophia. The two in turn had handed it off to Aoi and Sakuya to work on while other details were discussed. Delivering said details of course were Ayumu and Robosen, the two now having the spotlight on them as they were all gathered on the bridge.

"Thank you for complying with us," Sophia said.

"Its fine, whatever lets me inform you all faster," Ayumu answered.

"I must admit, it's a genuine surprise to see another Rider here," Genjuro beamed, clearly ecstatic at Ayumu's presence, "Especially a legendary one."

"O-Oh I'm not really a big deal," Ayumu admitted with a light blush of embarrassment as he rubbed the back of his head, "You're thinking of my father."

"Oi kid, just take the compliment," Robosen remarked as he smacked Ayumu in the back of the head, "You've been doing this for years already and are just as good as he was in his heyday."

"I suppose so," Ayumu chuckled sheepishly.

"That's even cooler though," Hibiki admitted with a smile, "The fact that you carry your father's legacy as a legendary Rider."

"Indeed," Rintaro agreed, "I never thought we'd normally see a different type of Rider."

Ayumu raised an eyebrow, "Normally?"

"Dimensional shenanigans," Kanade waved it off.

"You make it sound like you were there," Maria remarked.

"I was," Kanade smirked as she crossed her arms, "Even if I wasn't really."

"I get what that means, but you're just going to confuse him more," Maria huffed.

"Point is, it's a bit of an honor to be meeting with someone like you," Touma said as he decided to take the lead to keep things from growing too confusing, "I remember reading stories about Riders all the time. But they sort of faded away after a while…"

"There are still active Riders," Ayumu admitted, "Though they're few and far between."

"That being said, we're not here to talk about Riders," Robosen remarked, "Right?"

"Right," Ayumu nodded before looking at everyone, "We need to talk about the reemergence of an old enemy, the Ganma."

"I believe Gaze mentioned something about them," Tsubasa replied, "Something about empowering their technology."

"Yeah, he did," Chris nodded, "So what exactly is the connection here?"

"I'm not sure but I do believe he's got an even more dangerous power," Ayumu replied, "I could sense a dangerous force re-emerging almost immediately, which is why I made contact."

"What exactly did you sense?" Ogawa asked.

"It can't be anything good," Daishinji frowned.

"Deity-like beings above the Ganma, the Ganmaizers," Ayumu explained, "They've persisted in many different forms, and now they're likely to be revived again."

"Deity-like…" Genjuro trailed as his eyes widened.

"Ganmaizers…?" Sophia asked.

"Right, I should get to explaining," Ayumu realized, "It all started on my father's 18th birthday, when he was attacked and killed by a Ganma…"

Everyone followed along until Ayumu trailed off on that important detail...

"EH?!"

Gaze and Bahamut were currently walking through the halls of the empty Deep Connect building. They were silent the entire time, though that was starting to get on Bahamut's nerves.

"So this is your base?" Bahamut asked as he finally spoke up.

"Yes," Gaze nodded, "There are some preparations I need to personally attend to. So you can simply wander around for now."

"Of course, I…" Bahamut trailed off when he saw the Katchu Ganma kneeling on the floor, "Who is that?"

"Oh, someone I sent out alongside another though I'm surprised this one even survived," Gaze said as he stopped near Katchu while Bahamut trailed behind, "How did your mission go?"

"I have terrible news," Katchu said as it lowered its head as if to bow, "I was unable to claim any scraps of what was left from the bunker."

"So SONG was pretty quick in responding or was likely there already," Gaze remarked as he went to step past Katchu, "Why did you retreat?"

"The Wielder of Nagare alongside the Wielder of Kyomu and Gungnir were there," Katchu replied, "I figured it would be best to retreat in order to keep our forces strengthened."

"A worthless idea but I suppose I can't do anything about it," Gaze said as he continued to walk off, "For now I'll simply proceed in my plans."

Katchu said nothing as it went to stand, Bahamut simply staring at Gaze while taking in the very dismissive view his new partner had of their allies.

"Alright," Gaze entered a spacious and cleared out room, the computer from the bunker underneath the shack was placed at the center.

The server terminals were now clumped together in a cube with various wires running out from them and being attached to electrical sockets throughout the room. On the surrounding walls were 15 Phantom Megid, all of them in a docile state as they stood at attention.

Gaze soon began accessing the computers database, going through the files before finding the program to activate the 15 emblems he had seen when it had first activated. With a few more button clicks he stepped back as the computer sparked and unleashed electrical energy, the energy forming into the 15 sigils that all launched towards the 15 Phantom Megid.

Once an emblem hit a Phantom Megid, the anomaly contorted and morphed into a tech-like stone tablet with the respective symbol on it. Each tablet was colored differently as they all began to spiral around Gaze who spread his arms out.

The tablets shined brightly and formed into spheres that entered Gaze who suddenly gasped out as he lurched over. He felt the power overwhelming him, what little sentience these tablets were capable of were trying to overtake his own. He could only chuckle however as he pushed it all back once he had been pushed enough.

"Ganmaizers… Great Demia… you are tenacious but you cannot beat the combined knowledge I hold," Gaze chuckled as he let out a yell, a burst of white energy being unleashed as his body began to morph, "I am no mere Phantom Megid like the others I've used to replicate Ganma Technology. I will subjugate you and utilize you for my own means!"

Soon enough he became a white plant-like monstrous creature, 15 large gold beads around his neck and forming a collar around a knight-like face-helmet he had.

"Ah, there we go," the transformed Gaze chuckled as he looked himself over, "Perfect Ganmaizer became Great Demia… and so Great Demia shall become something new under my command, Great Gazer!"

To Be Continued…

Author's Note: I'm curious as to who expected Ghost to suddenly crash the party, though I feel like some might have been hopeful given the existing TTFC crossover content. That said, I figured I'd do a spin on the fact that the last Rider active in Sympho-Saber canon was Ghost and this does take place far enough in the future for Next Gen Rider shenanigans. Plus it lets me relax on designing Phantom Megid by utilizing them to power pre-existing suits via the Ganma and Ganmaizers.

That said this chapter is also important as I've fully reintroduced Ultimate Bahamut back into the story in a much different way than just being a form for Saber. I've got a couple of fun plans in store for him, so I hope you look forward to it. That said, thanks for reading and I'll see you next time.