Reviews:

Ryugen: Interesting card ideas. I'll for sure be using a couple that I found incredibly good. And yes, I think wyverns can work. But yeah, a dragon and a chameleon mixing would be weird. But who knows?

primenidus: Hugs for everyone.

SoutaAmetsuchi: Yeah me too. Especially considering what's coming ahead...But yeah, I decided to go with that for Elfnein instead of using the Dur Da Bla.

Dragstorm rider: Terunosuke fought to the end, using the life Jades gave him. Yeah, Oversurvive requires perfect balance with Rider and Monster. That's why someone who has a contract with multiple monsters can't do it. So the bad guys won't be using Oversurvive.

nicolasseverino95: No worries. I didn't know you could use Facebook to log into fanfiction. Yeah, Hazuki is a menace. He's too dangerous and hurt too many people. I think that Odin's vent might be too overpowered, but it could work. I definitely love that yo-yo with flames. I like all the others as well.

Tenzalucard123: Everyone is having a good time except Allister and Terunosuke. Maybe it's karma for all the wrongdoings they have done.

Author's note: Sorry if this chapter took longer than normal. But since this season is exclusively original, I have to come up with everything, so it takes longer than back when I was following the canon's script.

Chapter 145
The Left Wing of the Black Dragon

Ryuki opened his eyes, standing face to face with Fine, clad in her Nehushtan armor.

"You know, after all this time, I guess I did get a little taller," Ryuki muttered to himself upon comparing his height to Fine. As he recalled back then, he reached Ryoko up to her chest. But now, he was past Fine's chin.

Sword Vent: Dragsaber

Fine wasted no time in lashing out her whips, forcing Ryuki to dodge them with ease."You were scary before from what I heard, but now...?"

He closed the distance in a second, striking her in her chest and sending her flying."We're 100 times stronger than what we were before!"

A loud roar caused Hajime to turn around, coming face to face with the Nephilim in its final form. The monster unleashed several tendrils, forcing Ryuki to use his Ignite Vent to form large arms of fire, using them to stop the tendrils. He activated his Booster Vent and Final Vent, kicking the monster in its face, and knocking him back. Out of his peripheral vision, he saw a black arm trying to catch him, prompting him to leap back. However, he felt his body being pulled by a gravitational force. Kamen Rider Alternative appeared in front of him, punching Ryuki across the face.

Ryuki wasted no time in going Survive, recuperating his foot.

"Bragard..." Ryuki grumbled."You were a nightmare to fight back then. You caused me and so many people so much pain. But now..."

Sword Vent: Dragsaberzwei

Using his nine-rigged blade, Ryuki cut clean through Alternative. Before he could react, he sliced him clean in half but knew it wasn't over. Hundreds of Alternatives began crowding the area, surrounding Ryuki. On top of that, the Overall towered over all of them, several metal arms sprouting from its body. Ryuki summoned Dragranzer and both of them got to work. The dragon turned into his bike form, and Ryuki activated his Blaze Vent, crimson flames covering as they formed a giant dragon of crimson flames. The dragon mowed down through the countless clones before heading toward the Overall. The giant machination tried to stop it, but it went cleanly through its main core, bringing it down for good.

They separated and were now face to face with Adam and Lilith. Adam hurled his hat toward him, but Ryuki grabbed it with his hand, igniting it with fire and chucking it back, forcing him to jump away. Lilith used her brush to paint several elemental golems into existence. Ryuki conjured several fireballs, destroying the golems before blasting himself toward them. He kicked Lilith in the face, destroying half of it while punching a hole through Adam with his Dragknuckle. However, they merged to form Eden, firing several energy balls towards Hajime. He tried blocking them, but they were too strong, and was forced to take them head-on. Not only that, all the enemies he just defeated had returned and were now attacking at the same time.

A loud dragon roar echoed through the area, and a blast of flames incinerated all of them in an instant. The flames died down, revealing Hajime in his Oversurvive form...Conqueror's Regalia.

Two shadows caught his attention, descending from the sky. It was Shem-Ha and Lucifer, glaring down at him with extreme arrogance. Ryuki swallowed the lump in his throat, ready for what was to come.


Hajime yelped when he felt someone grab his shoulder. It was Bragi."W-w-w-what?!"

"Sorry for intruding." Bragi quickly apologized.

"Seriously, Adachi?" Tsubasa, who was meditating with Hajime, scowled at the raven-haired boy."We're in the middle of meditating and mental training. Could I ask you to avoid raising your voice like that?"

"O-oh...Sorry, Tsubasa-san!" Hajime clasped his palms together."Is there something you wanted, Bragi?"

"I wanted to ask you something important. Mind if we walk for a bit?"

"Sure." Hajime shrugged.

Both of them started walking toward the track field, where some of the others were doing a few laps. It had been some time since their official training began, and all of them had already come a long way from when they started.

"So, should I be worried?" Hajime adopted a sly smile."If you want to ask me something, it must be pretty bad."

"It's not because I want to ask you of all people." Bragi scoffed."Listen...You met with Hibiki-dono's parents before, right? How did you do it? How did you go about it? I'm meeting Miku's parents soon and well...I don't have any experience with that. I was hoping you could give me some pointers."

Hajime considered making fun of him like he usually did. But instead, he took a deep breath."Well...To be honest, it's not like I had much experience either. Hell, I punched Hibiki's Dad's face when I first met him."

"Huh?!"

"Don't worry. We're pretty close now. We watch football every now and then." Hajime waved his hand dismissively."Anyway, about your question. It depends on each person. All I can really tell you is to be natural. Be yourself."

"But...you know what I am." Bragi frowned."How can I tell them that?"

"The good basis of a relationship is not only to be truthful to your beloved but also to their family." Hajime pointed out."Eventually, you'll have to tell them. Besides, other than your rotten personality, you're pretty much human."

"Take your back-handed compliments and stick them up your ass." Bragi growled."I'm not asking for advice ever again."

"Are you afraid of my wisdom?" Hajime grinned haughtily."That's so like you."

"Fuck off." Bragi began jogging away, silently thanking Hajime.

"Honesty...I can do that."


A few weeks later...

Allister stuck out like a sore thumb in Lozere. Most people wore modest clothing, but the former assassin was wearing expensive clothes and a trench coat for the cold. But he didn't bother to obscure his footsteps as he walked down the cobblestone streets of his hometown. Surrounded by wilderness, his hometown was somewhat in the middle of nowhere, making it an ideal place to lay low. At least, that's what he told himself.

His eyes were glued to his home screen. A picture of Mona and Elsa smiling at the camera. He had taken this picture while they were together before the whole Shem-Ha incident happened.

"I miss you both so much." He whispered to the phone. It had been a long month without either of them. There was nothing more in the world that he would rather do than spend time with his girlfriend and his daughter. But he knew they wouldn't be safe with him. He was strong. But he was scared of them being caught in a fight between him and Hazuki. A fight was coming. It was inevitable. And the brand on his arm was proof of that.

As he walked down the streets, he reminisced of his past. Of the times he and Elsa used to run down the streets. Just talking about their dreams. It was a small town, but it was a good town. Walking by his old house brought back some bad memories. An elderly couple was living in there, and they waved at him as he walked by. Further ahead was the school he attended.

"Same as always." He smiled."This place never changed. I feel like I never left, even though it's been so long. I wonder..."

Curious, he made his way over to Elsa's house. Or what remained of it. After killing her relatives, he had burnt the house down, leaving nothing behind. And even after all those years, they never bothered to build anything new. It was just as he had left it.

"A terrible tragedy, isn't it?"

Allister froze in place, looking to the side and noticing Hazuki leaning against a tree, a maniacal smile on his face."Hazuki-kun..."

"Wrong. Guess again."

The dark-haired young man gasped when he noticed the golden eye."Loki..."

"You too, huh? You also dropped all honorifics? That's so unlike you, my dear Allister." Loki grinned, folding his arms."Did Terunosuke rub off on you too much?"

"Wait...Did you...?!" Allister gritted his teeth."What did you do to Terunosuke-san?!"

"Same thing that's going to happen to you." Loki sighed."So why did you do it? Why did you betray me, Allister? This is the kind of shit I would expect from Teruno. But you? Not in a million years."

"I'm done following you on your crusade. I finally know...what I truly feel. I know my true feelings now. I'm done wanting to see the biggest emotion aimed toward the strongest goal. Right now...I only care about what I feel. I'm taking control of my life now!"

"Is that what you really think?" Loki sighed in exasperation."Seriously, when did you become so sentimental? I liked you better when you were in this for the hell of it. What happened to the cold-hearted assassin?"

"He's gone...A certain girl warmed up his heart...And made him remember who he used to be." Allister glared daggers at the Trickster God."Elsa made me remember what I am! I am not Code Cypher! I am Allister Albedo!"

"So that little girl gave you these stupid ideas? And what? Do you want to stop us now? Why? Ragnarok is going to give you the life you want." Loki began advancing towards him."Think about it, Allister. I can give you the ideal world you want. You want to be together with your beloved and your little girl, right? You are distancing yourself away from them, aren't you?"

Allister grimaced, clenching his teeth.

"But you don't have to do that. I can promise you. Once the new world is created, you will be happy. I can give you your wildest dreams. You can spend eternity with them. Come on, Allister. You believe in our cause. You killed for it. Surely you understand that you..." He looked at Allister's hand."...you're in way too deep at this point. This world is doomed to die, Allister. Don't fight for it. We can fix everything. Elsa...and Mona. You can be with them again. So just-"

"Let you kill them, along with all of humanity? Sorry, but I won't let that happen." Allister said, drawing out his Deck."Even if it's pointless...even if I die here and now...and even if the world ends up being destroyed anyway...I'll fight for them. I'll give them even one second of life. And for that, I'll stand against you right here and now!"

"Tch." Loki clicked his tongue."You really have fallen off, Allister. You used to be cooler. Now you're a family man? How lame. But it's fine. I'll just have to retrieve my other wing!"

"Henshin!" Both of them yelled.

As their beasts chased after them, both of them rushed toward each other, their fists colliding. Their monsters engulfed their bodies, and their bodies were now covered in their armor.

"Ohohoho! I can actually feel that, Allie!" Ryuga cackled in delight.

"Don't call me that!" Ouja went for a horizontal kick, but Ryuga quickly avoided it by jumping back. To Ouja's surprise, Ryuga was already in front of him, going for a punch. The snake-themed Rider narrowly avoided the attack by weaving his head out of the way.'He's so fast! What's with this speed?!'

Ryuga kicked behind him, a portal appearing next to Ouja and kicking him in the side of the head, sending him flying. In one smooth motion, Ouja drew a card from his Deck, activating it.

Sword Vent: Venosaber

Ouja dashed toward Ryuga, who blocked the swing of his sword with his visor as a card activated.

Sword Vent: Dragsaber

Ryuga's sword appeared in his free hand, slashing Ouja across the chest, sending him staggering backward. But the dark Raider continued on his advancing, slashing Ouja's body with his blade, not allowing him a moment to rest. He went for a kick, but Ouja rolled out of the way, swinging his blade. Ryuga bucked his knees, grinning as he saw Ouja's blade in slow motion before kicking him in the chin, and launching him into the sky. Ouja gasped, noticing that people were starting to come out of their houses due to the commotion. He started leaping outside of the town, heading deeper into the wilderness.

"You too, huh?" Ryuga chuckled, chasing after him.

Ouja ran through the trees, trying to get away from his hometown to avoid involving innocent civilians. As much as he loathed the place, it was where he was born and where he and Elsa met. It had meaning.

"You know, Teruno also tried the same thing."

Ouja stopped in his tracks upon hearing Ryuga's voice coming from around him. He brandished his blade, trying to guess where he would come from but was hidden in the trees.

"You know very well it does not matter whether these people live or die. Or...what, do you truly believe you can be redeemed? Ha! Hahahaha! That's hilarious. You have no way of ever being redeemed. The amount of dead people behind you is enough to make a whole new country with your name."

"I don't want to be redeemed. I'm not a fool to ever think that." Ouja sneered."I just-"

"What? Want to live in peace? After everything you've done? Do you think this cruel world can ever allow that?" Loki's cackle could be heard all around Ouja, disorienting him further."I am the only one who could have given you that. And yet, you and Teruno decided to be idiots and try your luck. But it's all a shame. I have already acquired Teruno back. Your little friendship and trust...has all been for naught."

Ouja bit his lower lip."Terunosuke..."

"But it's fine. You're not the first person who tried to help him for no reason. Didn't his brother die for him? And for what? So he could end up in my hands again? What a joke!"

"Is that all we were to you? Just slaves?! Then what about Chiaki-chan?!"

"Chiaki performed most admirably. Funny enough, she did way more than the two of you. I didn't expect much from her. But I suppose...the more delusional one becomes, the more detached they get from reality. Allow me to get you back down...from the clouds!"

Strike Vent: Dragclaw

Ouja gasped, noticing a dragon made of black flames coming toward him.

Guard Vent: Shelldefense

Using Scissors' shield, he managed to block the attack, but the force of it sent him skidding away. Ryuga jumped into the sky, firing several fireballs toward Ouja, who deflected them with his sword. One of them hit Ryuga in the chest, causing him to fall back to the ground, allowing Ouja to chase after him.

"Tch." Ryuga opened a portal in front of Ouja, causing his foot to slip inside. He instinctively pulled it back before it closed on him, avoiding having his foot chopped off. But this was all a distraction, as Ryuga appeared behind Ouja. His highly trained awareness allowed him to dodge, attempting to slash at Ryuga, but he parried with his sword. Ryuga pushed Ouja back, but the snake-themed Rider moved out of the way and made Ryuga trip over his foot.

"Struggle all you want, you're not going to-"

"Just shut up and fight."

Shoot Vent: Gigacannons

Ouja blasted Ryuga away with Zolda's cannons, bombarding him with everything he had.

"I won't go down here. For Chiaki and Terunosuke's sakes! I will take you down!" Ouja continued shooting, destroying the forest around them."For Elsa! For Mona!"

"Seriously...ever since you became so emotional, you've gotten so lame."

Ouja turned around, but Ryuga slammed his fist against his cheek, sending him flying away and rolling across the area. He aimed his gauntlet, shooting several firewalls toward Ouja.

Advent: Magnugiga

Magnugiga appeared in front of Ouja, displaying its arsenal and shooting several bullets and missiles toward Ryuga, who countered by activating an ability.

Wing Vent

Using Femme's wings, Ryuga took off into the air to avoid the attacks, unwillingly heading for Ouja's trap.

Shoot Vent: Gigamini

Ouja sprayed his bullets toward Ryuga, forcing him to fly away to avoid the bullets. He noticed Venosnaker slithering on his left before spitting venom at him, hitting one of his wings. Ryuga crashed to the ground, growling in annoyance.

Ouja dashed at full speed toward him, closing his visor and activating another card.

Final Vent: Scissors Attack

Volcancer appeared in front of Ouja grabbing him by the leg and spinning him at high speeds before hurling him toward Ryuga. Ouja curled up in a ball, becoming a high-revolving sphere.

"Ah...You're a lot better than Teruno. That's for sure." Ryuga drew a card from his Deck, sliding it inside.

Advent: Dragblacker

Dragblacker emerged from the ground, bitting onto Ouja and spitting him away. Magnugiga shot a few rockets, but the dragon flew over to his master, as he prepared for another attack.

Final Vent: Dark Flying Rider Kick

"S-shit! Shit!" Ouja quickly stood up, sliding a card inside of his visor as he rushed behind Magnugiga, his visor changing to Zolda's.

Final Vent: End of the World

Ryuga cackled as he flew over to Magnugiga as soon as Ouja inserted his gun into the slot of its back, kicking the robot and sending him flying away with Ouja. The French rolled down a hill until he crashed into a tree, groaning in pain. He gasped in pain, using the tree to properly lean against it, coughing blood.

"You're holding up quite nicely." Ryuga hollered from on top of the hill."Good thing Magnugiga took the impact. I'll say, you are putting up a better fight than Teruno, but..." He showed him two cards before sliding them inside his visor."Mind if we speed up a bit?"

Unite Vent

Survive: Kuroyami

Allister gritted his teeth, watching as Blancswan and Dragblacker appeared behind Ryuga."Well then...what are you going to do?"

The French responded by mimicking Ryuga, activating his own two cards.

Unite Vent

Survive: Modoku

Venosnaker, Volcancer, and Magnugiga came to Ouja's defense.

"I'm curious...Why haven't you tried killing yourself?" Ryuga tilted his head as he was beginning to morph into his Survive form."You know I'm after your secrets. And if you're so desperate to stop me and protect your beloved family, you could just end your life right now."

Allister didn't respond, his Survive form cladding his body, glaring daggers at the dragon-theme Rider.

"I know. It's because...you want to make sure I don't lay a hand on them, right?" Ryuga chuckled."You think you can beat me. Even if you have less than a 1% chance of doing so, you'll gladly take it. If it means fighting for the people you love. Then come..."

"I'll stop you right here and now!" Ouja screamed as the monsters entered his body, going into his Trinity Mode.


A few weeks ago...

"Oh, no! I still can't decide what to wear!" Elfnein cried out in distress, browsing through her wardrobe. She pulled out a dress in one hand and shorts and a jacket in another."Raiden, help me!"

"I'm on it." Raiden chuckled. They were currently in Elfnein's room. It was on the simplistic side, with nothing standing out. Raiden had been invited because he was experienced in being asked for opinions from his sisters regarding what to wear. That, and because he was her boyfriend."They both look good. Why can't you decide on your own? I don't think it matters how you dress."

"Because Carol bought this dress when she was around and it's too form-fitting for me. Too tight. And well...this other outfit is okay. But maybe I should try something else?

"Darling, you're meeting Miku's parents. Just go with something casual."

"I can't! It has to be perfect. I am going as Bragi-chan's parent. He trusted me for this task. And besides...if I go too casual, wouldn't it be weird? I mean...I am his Aunt. I don't think someone of my size would look good as someone's aunt. He's taller than me."

"Okay. Then I have a simple solution." Raiden gently set her arms down before removing her labcoat."There you go. Perfect."

"Huh?" She blinked.

"Sometimes, being yourself is the most important thing. And honestly, you look extremely cute without your lab coat."

She blushed profusely, covering her face in embarrassment, much to Raiden's amusement. He gently uncovered her face, kissing her on her lips. She was taken aback but immediately reciprocated the kiss, wrapping her arms around his neck. Once they were out of breath, they pulled back.

"Sorry. I wanted to do that for a while." He grinned."We haven't had time for ourselves, have we?"

"I believe not. I guess all of this has been taking a toll on us." She meekly said, still recovering from the kiss."Honestly, I've been aching all over. I never had to do this much physical training before."

"I'm used to it. Back at FIS, it was even worse. At least here, the atmosphere is more friendly. Aside from worrying about the fate of the world, of course."

"That is pretty concerning." Elfnein giggled cutely, making Raiden blush.

"I'm still not okay with you fighting, Elfnein. I know you have a Relic and are pretty smart, but...This fight..."

"It's precisely why I have to fight." Elfnein grabbed his hands gently."I'm tired of sitting on the sidelines. If this fight is so important...I want to help! I want to stand by your side. I know you're in pain. And you're afraid of losing what you have left, but...I'm terrified of losing you and Bragi-chan. I don't want to have any regrets. Not anymore."

"I...Damn...So this is how Kirika feels, huh?" Raiden ran a hand through his hair.

"Nope. You're stuck with me." Elfnein grinned playfully."Believe me. Bragi-chan has already tried talking me down. And I'm on board 100%. You won't get rid of me so easily."

"Fine. I suppose I can't take that away from you..." Raiden rolled his eyes.

"But you know...I want to do the best I can. Carol gave up her life so that I could live." Elfnein told him."So...I want to do all I can to ensure this world doesn't end."

"I get what you mean." Raiden kissed her forehead."Jades...He sacrificed himself for Teru-nii...and us. Even though he always kept things a secret...he did it to protect us. The four of us are here today because of him. So I get what you're saying...It's just..."

"I won't be involved directly in the fight." She reassured him."I'll be more of a support than anything else. I'm not worried. I have you and Bragi-chan to protect me in case things don't go as planned, after all."

"Yeah, you're right. We'll protect you. No matter what." He leaned forward, going for another kiss. Elfnein gasped but reciprocated the kiss. They had gotten better than when they first started going on. He pulled back, laughing at her expression."By the way, you should probably go get ready."

"Oh, right! Are you sure you don't want to come too?"

"Nah, it's okay. I was invited somewhere else. Besides, this is your chance to impress Miku's parents." He tilted his head."Besides, if I go...It kind of seems weird for me to go, no? I mean...I know we're together and all but...wouldn't that make me Bragi's uncle? Or step-uncle? So just go with him."

"Alright. If you insist." Elfnein sighed."By the way, where are you going?"

"I'm...not sure..." He trailed off, prompting Elfnein to arch a brow in confusion.


"Alright! Let our day in the mall begin! Ladies, make sure to have fun!" Hamaguchi announced as the group entered the local mall.

"So this is a mall, huh?" Garie marbled at the sight."It's like a market, but..."

"Just 10000 times cooler, right?" Hamaguchi shot her a toothy grin."The wonders of technology. Take a look around. It's way different than what it was back in your time."

"Woah..." Amber was stunned at how big the place was."So this is a city mall...The one in Okinawa doesn't even begin to compare..."

"Oh, right." Yumi hummed."I guess this is new to you, huh?"

"We'll show you around." Shirabe smiled.

"And make sure you don't hold back on me. If you see something you like, or if you're hungry or whatever, let me know. I'm treating you ladies today." He winked at them.

"Really now?" Yumi raised a skeptical brow."And why are you being so generous all of a sudden? Is it because your girlfriend is not here?"

"What? Of course not! It'd just seem rude of me to not let you guys have a good time." He waved her off."Besides, I have too much money saved up. Ever since I started working in SONG, I've been saving up since I haven't had time to spend anything. So don't worry about me."

'Of course, I can't let them know that I want to make it look like I have a harem with me. It's perfect!' He thought to himself with a cheeky smile.'Or it would be perfect...except for...'

"Well, if he's offering to buy stuff, then it's okay, right Mama?" Tobias asked Garie, who was holding his hand.

"Normally, yes. But this is Hamaguchi we're talking about." She grinned."He's probably doing this to make it look like he has tons of girlfriends. Unfortunately for him, while he is a cute boy, I am happily married and have a precious son."

"What?! Is that true, Hamaguchi-kun?!" Yumi placed her hands on her hips."You better not be trying to flirt with all of us."

"He wouldn't dare." Shirabe glared at him."Right, Hamaguchi?"

"O-of course not! I am genuinely just trying to have a good time with my friends!" He raised his hands in defense.

"Just to make sure, you should buy Kiri-chan some stuff. I'll pick." Shirabe patted him on the shoulder with a knowing look. She stepped on her tippy toes, whispering in his ear."Or else your secret is out."

"Okay! Okay! I'll do it!" The bluenette cried out."I'll pay for everything..."

"That's more like it." Shirabe smiled sweetly as they walked ahead of the group.

"That was a complete 180 in his personality," Garie commented.

"I wonder what Shirabe-chan has against Hamaguchi-kun to make him that docile." Yumi pondered.

"Knowing him, it's probably something he did and doesn't want others to know." Amber giggled."He gets flustered when it comes to himself."

"Probably something perverted." Gasrie snickered."Anyway, we need him tamed so he doesn't get the wrong idea. So I invited someone else."

"Someone else?"

"There you guys are."

The group turned to see an annoyed Raiden approaching them."You could have told me where exactly I was supposed to meet you, Garie..."

"I'm sorry!" Garie giggled, not at all sorry.

"Mama..." Tobias deadpanned.

'Damn it! Of course, he had to show up! Now everything is ruined!' Hamaguchi lamented inside of his head, but on the outside, he smiled."Hey, bro! What's up? Glad you joined the party."

Raiden looked at the group, noticing the overwhelming amount of girls."Should I be concerned why you invited mostly girls and Tobias?"

"I've got it handled, Raiden," Shirabe said, and he seemed to understand what she meant.

"So...how's the little missy?" Hamaguchi asked as they walked around.

"She's getting ready for her meeting with Miku's parents." He responded.

"What, you didn't tag along? Don't wanna be an uncle?" Hamaguchi nudged him on the side.

"Shut up." Raiden groaned."Let's go eat something. You're inviting right?"

"What?! Hell no-"

"He is" Shirabe cut in, leaving Hamaguchi no choice but to accept. The group enjoyed a meal together before going on a shopping spree. Yumi was buying tons of clothes and helping Amber pick good outfits. Garie continued buying clothes for Tobias, loving every second of seeing her son in adorable outfits. Shirabe was on the phone, asking Kirika what she wanted while also getting things for herself. As everyone bought things, Hamaguchi's wallet became thinner and thinner, until it was completely empty.

By the end of the day, they were lounging around in an ice cream parlor, Hamaguchi crying in silence as he stared at his wallet.

"Are you alright?" Yumi sat next to him, handing him an ice cream cone."Here. I got you this. As a thanks for today."

"Oh. Thanks." Hamaguchi grabbed the ice cream.

"So, Love Detective, was it?" Yumi smirked."I thought you would help me find love. Or did you think that by getting me all this stuff I'd be able to get myself a boyfriend?"

"Oh, that. Well, it's pretty obvious you like Hajime."

"W-what?!" Yumi squealed."W-what do you mean?!"

"Come on, it's pretty obvious. Back at my party, you would constantly stare at him. Even back during Hibiki-chan's party." He grinned."Don't forget, I'm also good at reading people."

"What...you like Adachi-kun...?"

Amber, who was casually standing next to them, covered her mouth.

"I...I do." Yumi heaved a long sigh."I have a huge crush on him. I have for a long time. I was always interested in that bad-boy attitude he used to have. Made him seem like a tough guy. And you know, girls our age kind of like that. But then he started warming up and being kind...And he always seems to have others rely on him...It got even worse when he saved me when our school was attacked."

"I see. Well, you shouldn't feel bad about it."

"Of course, I have to feel bad about it!" Yumi exclaimed."I like my best friend's boyfriend!"

"Yeah, but you can't blame that on yourself. No one decides who they like. The heart works in mysterious ways. Besides, Endou-chan always has a huge crush on Hajime too."

"What?! You too?!"

"Well...Yes! But not that much anymore! I mean, when we first met, I was smitten instantly. And he went ahead and saved us all from that psycho girl...But I do have some feelings for him..." She twiddled with her thumbs."He's...kind of dreamy, actually."

"Right?!" Yumi's eyes sparkle in glee."He's so reliable and handsome! A little boyish but that makes it better! But..." Her shoulders slumped."I could never hurt Hibiki-chan like that."

"Neither could I." Amber nodded.

"I understand. It's normal, don't feel bad about it. Like I said, we don't control who we like." He crossed his arms under his chest."My advice is to give it time. Trust me, this is a cliche line, but it's true. There are plenty of fish in the sea. One day, I'm sure you both will find the right person for you. If a guy like me found someone who loves me unconditionally, you guys will have an easier time. Trust me."

"Maybe you're right." Amber agreed."Hopefully, that person is as loyal as you and caring as Adachi-san."

"Hopefully not perverts like Hamaguchi-kun" Yumi added.

"Wait, what?"

The group shifted their attention to the group behind them, with Raiden's mouth open.

"You two...like Hajime?" Raiden blinked."Why?! What the heck?!"

"Can you blame them, Raiden?" Hamaguichi grinned mischievously."Honestly, if I were a girl or if I were into guys, I'd be all over him too."

"R-Raiden?!" Shirabe blushed at his comment.

"What? The guy is fucking buff. The amber-colored eyes and the black hair sell his appearance." He shrugged nonchalantly."Pretty sure Kirika said she was crushing on him when we were kids."

"To be honest, he is quite charming. I'll say that much." Garie chuckled shamelessly.

"Mama, seriously...?" Tobias sighed.

"Are you fucking kidding me?! Why does Bakime of all people have a fan club?!" Raiden threw his arms up in the air.

"Oh, are you jealous?" Hamaguchi leaned forward, hands behind his back."Want me to be your fan~?"

"Get away from me!" Raiden screamed, rushing away at full speed.

"Come on, man! Just one quick hug! I'm perfectly secure, don't worry about it!" Hamaguchi rushed after him, leaving the girls and Tobias to watch as they ran around.

"So...is he serious?" Yumi blinked, puzzled.

"He might be bisexual. Not really sure with how much he sexually harasses girls." Shirabe shrugged nonchalantly."But I doubt he's being serious."

"What does bisexual mean?" Garie promptly asked.

"It means he likes both guys and girls," Yumi responded.

"Oh. Well, that's a surprise. It's amazing how accepting the world has become of that. A huge advancement in comparison to back when I was a human. By the way, what's the secret you're holding for Hamaguchi?"

"He and Kiri-chan had sex."

"Oh." Garie blinked."Is that it?"

"W-what do you mean?!" Amber blushed, embarrassed."That's a real personal secret for someone to have!"

"Yeah, but those two are so into each other, it was kind of a given they fuck like bunnies." She shrugged."I'm assuming there's more to this story."

"Well, it was back when Jades-nii was alive. And he was rather overprotective of Kiri-chan. So whenever Hamaguchi would act out of line, I'd threatened him to tell Jades-nii. Of course, he knew. Maria figured it out. But he decided that Kiri-chan was her own woman and could make her own decisions."

"So why is he so spooked?" Yumi inquired.

"I think he just never moved on from that." Shirabe adopted a small smile."But it helps me to manipulate him. So it works out."

"Woah, that's evil." Garie smirked."I didn't know you had it in you."

"It's a necessary evil." Shirabe puffed out her chest."The anti-pervert solution."


Later that night, Elfnein and Bragi were standing outside of the Kohinata residence, anxiously waiting before making their move. Bragi was wearing a white hoodie underneath a black jacket and black jeans. An outfit picked for him by Maria, who had said that monochrome colors suited him the best.

"So...should we ring the doorbell?" He asked the blonde next to him.

"I believe we should, yes." She nodded. She noticed Bragi looking apprehensive and grabbed his hand.

"Auntie?"

"It's okay. I'm nervous too." She reassured him, leaning against his arm."But we'll be fine. We may be different than normal humans, but deep down, we're humans."

"Of course. I know that. It's just...I don't want to make her parents think I'm weird or anything..." He rubbed his nape, feeling insecure.

"I understand. I feel the same way. But we've been through a lot of things, haven't we? I believe having dinner with Miku-san's parents shouldn't be outside of our skillsets."

"Good point." He nodded. The dichromatic-eyed boy rang the doorbell, waiting patiently for someone to open it. It didn't take long before a loud and bombastic voice grew closer and closer. Until the door swung open, revealing a tall, and rather curvaceous and well-endowed woman with black hair and green eyes.

"Oh, my~!" She gushed at the pair in front of her."Well, aren't you the cutest kids~! Are you siblings?"

Bragi froze in place, instinctively taking a step back. The woman in front of him reminded him of someone he'd much rather never think about in his life.

"How about you give me a good time, Little Prince?" His mind flashed back to his fight with Cagliostro and the devastating blows she landed on him. He began sucking on his thumb, comforting himself.

"B-Bragi-chan?! What's wrong?!" Elfnein asked in concern.

"Oh, no! I did it again! Dang it! I try to go easy on guys younger than me, but he's so cute I couldn't resist."

"Aunt Yukino! You're overwhelming them!" Miku pulled the woman away from them. Bragi gaped at her appearance. She was wearing a navy blue dress with heels.

"Do you know them, Miku?" Her aunt tilted her head.

"Yes! I told you that I invited my boyfriend and his Aunt here for dinner!" She groaned in exasperation.

"Oh, right! I completely forgot about that!" She playfully hit her own head before turning to the homunculi duo."Sorry about that! It sort of slipped my mind."

"I-it's okay! Really!" Elfnein shook her head."My name is Elfnein...Elfnein Malus Dienheim."

Bragi's eyes widened at that. It was the first time his Aunt had introduced herself using his Mama's name.

"I'm Bragi Third Dienheim." Bragi bowed slightly."I am Miku's boyfriend."

"Wow! Miku, you got quite the catch here! He's so stylish and that mysterious aura he has...Irresistible!" She examined him from head to toe, much to his dismay."I'm a fashion designer. I can think of a few outfits that would really make you stand out. By the way, your white and black hair...and those dual-colored eyes...Are they real?"

"Yes. It's all natural." Bragi said.

"Incredible...I've heard of people having heterochromia...and others that had two hair colors. But you got both things going on. Almost like you represent two sides of a spectrum."

Bragi visibly flinched at that. She was more right than she realized.

"And you are his Aunt? You're just so cute!" Yukino grabbed Elfnein's hands."I am Miku's aunt! Let's become the best aunts together!"

"S-sure..." Elfnein stammered.

"Aunt Yukino, you're running late." Miku reminded her.

"You're right! Well, it was nice meeting you two! I hope to see you around sometime soon!"

With that, the woman rushed away, leaving the trio behind.

"Sorry about her...She's very eccentric." Miku apologized.

"It's okay..." Bragi shook his head, trying to forget about his mini panic attack."You look... beautiful today, Miku. I mean...you always look beautiful, but...You know..."

She giggled."I understand. You look very handsome in that outfit. Elfnein-chan you look adorable! I like the clothes you wear underneath your lab coat."

"Thank you, Miku-san. Raiden told me not to overthink things." Elfnein smiled."So I went with something more modest."

"What's important is you being comfortable. Come on in! We're just about ready to start dinner!" Miku guided them inside. Once they reached the kitchen, Elfnein and Bragi noticed Miku's parents setting the table.

"So glad you could make it!" Miku's mom beamed."I was worried you'd have gotten lost. These streets can be a little hard for newcomers to navigate through. So glad to finally meet. I am Shizuka Kohinata.":

"Oh. No, no! It was really no trouble." Elfnein bowed."Pleased to meet you. I am Elfnein Malus Dienheim. And this here is my nephew. Introduce yourself, Bragi-chan."

"We heard all about him already." Miku's father chuckled."Miku doesn't stop talking about the great Bragi Third Dienheim."

"D-Dad!" Miku blushed.

"Oops! Sorry!" He laughed."Anyway, my name is Amon Kohinata. It's a pleasure. Please, sit down. Dinner will be ready shortly. In the meantime, I have to ask. Elfnein...Bragi...I never heard of those names before."

"They're European names, sir." Elfnein supplied.

"I know. I also know you're from the great Kingdom of Ventara." He pointed at Bragi."And you...are a Prince."

"H-huh?!" Bragi and Elfnein gasped."You know about Ventara?!"

"I study ancient civilizations. Ancient Greece, the Roman Empire, Sparta, the Atlantis, and such. Ventara intrigued me the most because there was little to no information about it. It was a mystery I never got to unravel. So imagine my surprise when my Miku told me that you are the last Ventarian Prince."

"I'm sorry, Bragi..." Miku lowered her gaze."I know it's not my place to say anything about your private life..."

"No. It's okay." Bragi reassured her with a gentle smile."I want to be honest with your parents. And to you as well. Eventually, this was going to come up. So, Amon-dono, if you know about that, then I guess you know about..."

"I know that you're both artificial humans. And then your original self was the former Prince that lived for centuries after the fall of the kingdom." Amon leaned forward."You're quite an interesting man, Bragi-kun."

"I...hope that doesn't mean you don't want me to date your daughter..."

"What? The not-human thing?" He scoffed."Please, I'm not so shallow. I'm an old-school kind of guy. What matters is what's inside. Besides, you saved my daughter's life. And she seems very happy with you. So you have my blessing to continue dating her."

Bragi sighed in relief, holding his chest.

"And let's not forget about Elfnein-chan." Shizuka said, setting the food down on the beef stew down on the table."It must have been a challenge to look after Bragi-kun. Despite being so young and inexperienced, I would say you did a fantastic job."

"You really think so?" Elfnein smiled."Thank you! I have done what I can. And honestly, I've made plenty of mistakes. But I do it for him. And for his Mother...my original self, Carol."

"You've done more than enough, Auntie." Bragi said softly."Way more than I could ever put into words."

"Bragi-chan..." Elfnein felt tears glistening in her eyes, but Miku hugged her immediately.

Amon and Shizuka glanced at each other, smiling. Dinner went surprisingly better than Bragi had expected. They talked about what he wanted to do in life, his ambitions, his dreams, and things like that. Maria had given him some pointers on how to behave and the purpose of these questions. They wanted to know what he could bring into Miku's life and he respected that.

They felt accepted. They were afraid people outside of their social circle wouldn't look at them as humans. But this wasn't the case.

"Elfnein-chan, I'm sorry for asking, but you're pretty good with computers, right?" Amon asked.

"I am." She nodded.

"Mind taking a look at mine? It's been malfunctioning for a few days, and honestly, I don't want to spend money to get a new one so soon."

"Sure! I'd love to!"

"I'll come with." Miku sighed."My dad doesn't know what the problem is. And no matter how many times I explain it, he doesn't get it. So I'll show you."

With that, the 3 of them headed out of the kitchen, leaving Shizuka and Bragi behind.

"Mind if I help you wash the dishes, ma'am? It's the least I can do after today."

"Thank you so much, Bragi-kun. Honestly, I've been getting tired of washing dishes lately. I'm thinking of getting a dishwasher, but they're too expensive." She and Bragi stood side by side, piling up the dishes.

"Well, Miku is earning a decent salary from SONG. So maybe if you ask her, I'm sure she'll get one." Bragi offered.

"Right...She is part of the government's defense team, isn't she?" She suddenly stopped moving, earning Bragi's attention."It's hard to fathom. It wasn't that long ago when all she did was track team...and then play the piano. And all of a sudden, she's doing something even greater...It's like she's growing at a rate I can't keep up with."

"She found herself in the necessity to grow." Bragi said."All of our friends have. We've all gone through difficult trials. And to overcome them, we had to get stronger and adapt. Miku feels like she is part of this because of the times she was...used as a weapon. She wants to do good."

"God..." She sniffed, tears streaming down her face."A few years ago, she was supposed to go to a concert with Hibiki-chan, but my sister, Yukino, got into an accident, so we had to go visit her in the hospital. Later that day...I found out about the horrible Zwei Wing incident...and how all of those people were massacred by the Noise, except for Hibiki-chan."

By now, the woman was in tears, covering her mouth."I was so relieved. I was so happy that Miku didn't go. But I felt so horrible because of what happened to Hibiki-chan. She's been Miku's friend for years...and I was glad that my daughter was not there, disregarding Hibiki-chan's safety. I...I felt like I was the worst human being in the world."

"Shizuka-dono..." Bragi placed a hand on her shoulder."You shouldn't feel guilty for being happy that Miku didn't go to that concert. It's completely justified. That day...All of the people there died, yes. Except two."

"Two...? But I thought-"

"There was another survivor. A girl by the name of Amy Regulus. But unfortunately, her circumstances were much worse than Hibiki-dono's..." Bragi closed his eyes, trying not to feel guilty for the girl's fate."That being said, I believe in destiny. Destiny had a hand in what they ended up becoming. It's like fate itself wanted only those two to live. If Miku had been there...I don't think she would have been lucky enough to live. So don't feel guilty to be happy she wasn't there. Rejoice that feeling. You are blessed not to mourn for your child. So instead of feeling bad about it, make sure to keep loving Miku with everything you have. That's how you can honor the parents who lost their children that day."

The hybrid took a deep breath before continuing."I know you're scared of what's to come for her now. But once Miku makes up her mind, you can't convince her otherwise. Trust me. I tried to get her to not get involved. But she understands that the battle that's ahead of us will determine the fate of the world. Of all human beings. We need all the help with can get. Especially hers and her Shenshoushing." A small smile graced his features."But I can promise you one thing. I'll protect Miku with my life. I want to prevent her from suffering any more than what she has."

The woman's eyes widened, staring at Bragi's dichromatic eyes.

"I love Miku. She helped me realize what and who I am. I changed into a better person because of her and found happiness with my friends. I want to return that favor and make her happy. So I want you to know that I won't let any harm come to her. No matter what it takes. She'll be safe."

"Thank you...You have no idea how happy that makes me." Shizuka grabbed his hands."Thank you for loving my girl...thank you so much..."

"Of course." Bragi was pulled into a hug, earning a surprise gasp from him.

"What do you say we continue cleaning up?"

"You'll make a great son-in-law."


Several weeks later...

On the side of a mountain, Ouja was pinned to the wall, a blade piercing both of his hands above his head. The area around them was destroyed, looking more like a wasteland than a forest. Genocider was lying on the floor, sparks coming out of its mechanical body as Calamity glared down at him from the top of a tree, like a predator to prey. Black and white feathers circled the area as the battle ended.

"You went down faster than Teruno." Ryuga made his way over to Ouja, snapping his fingers."But I suppose it's because you are not as durable as he is. But you make up for it with your power. If I had to compare you guys...He's an absurdly large water tank, while you are more of a pistol. You can do more damage, but your defenses are severely lacking in comparison. The same could be said in reverse for him."

The sword pinning Ouja's hands disappeared, his body dropping to the ground with a loud thud. He groaned, trying to get up, but fell back on the floor."I...I can't feel my legs..."

"Don't worry. You'll be fine. " Ryuga squatted in front of him."You know...I know why you don't try to kill yourself. It's because...if you die, your power, and by extension, your essence, becomes part of us. Meaning that I can use a Dupe Vent to summon you and make you tell me what I want to know. In other words, you had no hope of ever winning this fight. No matter what you'd chosen to do."

"Don't...don't hurt Elsa or Mona..." Ouja pleaded."Please...Loki-sama, I-"

"Unfortunately, I lost all hope in you, Allister. My most loyal soldier turned his back on me and betrayed me. But it's okay. I can make sure you don't ever disobey me again."

Ryuga produced a small purple sphere in his hand, tossing it by Ouja's feet. Instinctively, Ouja began to crawl away, but a black void opened beneath him, trapping his feet and preventing him from moving."W-what is this?!"

"Don't be so dramatic, Allister. It doesn't suit you. I'll just get rid of that bothersome Free Will of yours so that you can open up your eyes to the truth. You'll be thanking me."

"No...No! I won't!" Allister tried to crawl away, but the void began to suck him in, now swallowing him past his knees."I won't...I won't let you harm them!"

"You're so disgusting, Allister. A failure of a human being and a failure of an assassin. You truly have no place in this world. What a pity." Ryuga taunted, watching as Ouja's armor disappeared. Genocider let out a shriek before it vanished into thin air."But I can still fix you. I will make good use of you. You shouldn't feel bad. You've been nothing but a tool your entire life. So this isn't anything new for you, right? Hahahahahaha!"

Allister felt hands grabbing his body from within the void as voices flooded his head.

"Stop fighting, Allister."

"Elsa...?" Allister looked down at the void, and he could swear he saw several faces inside.

"Come inside. You don't have to fight anymore." Came Mona's voice.

"You've fought so hard all this time. It's enough."

"Akira...?!" Allister's eyes widened.

"Just let it go. It's okay to lay down and rest." Elsa's sultry voice said. By now, Allister was up to his neck within the void, glaring at Ryuga.

"Thank you for your services, Allister. See you on the other side. HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA!" He cackled manically, opening a portal and disappearing.

"Elsa..." Allister stared at the cloudy sky, stretching out his arm as if trying to grasp the sky."I'm so sorry...I'm sorry I couldn't make things right between us...Please...take care of Mona..."

He gave a thumbs up before the void swallowed him completely, his face disappearing and instead, a black void appearing in its place.

"Because I'm nothing. I am nothing in this world. All I am...is a Zero."


Loki opened a portal back in their base, ending his transformation."Well, that takes care of that. Thanks for letting me out to play, Superstar. I needed the exercise."

"Well, honestly, I didn't have it in me to take them down." Hazuki said inside of his mind before they switched places, his golden eye returning to its natural pink color."Also, when you're in control, you're a lot stronger than I am. I wasn't sure I could have taken them both in quick succession like that."

"Don't be so modest, Superstar." Loki chuckled."Anyway, I'll take a nap. Wake me up if anything good happens."

"Right." Hazuki nodded, heading for their command room. Once the opened the doors, everyone's attention was focused on him.

"You're back already?" Yomi arched a brow."You sure don't waste time."

"So...Did you do it?" Wei asked.

Instead of answering, two portals opened beside Hazuki. On his right, was Terunosuke, and on his left, Allister. Both had black voids in their faces with red dots serving as eyes. Their skins were extremely pale with black veins covering them, and their hairs were now pitch black.

"So...I guess Allister and Terunosuke winded up coming back, huh?" Wei mused.

"Not quite." Hazuki corrected."They are Zero and Null from now on. They were fortunate enough to be the first humans, alongside Chiaki, to be stripped of their Free Will. Soon enough, all of humanity will follow along. For now, they shall serve as the wings of the dragon. My wings. The time for Ragnarok draws near. We are more than ready. For now, it should be smooth sailing from here."

He shifted his gaze to Zero."I'll be using Allister's memories and knowledge to turn the world upside down. Using what secrets he hides from government officials around the world, it should be enough to send every major country in the world into an uproar. All these attacks we've been causing around the world will now be nothing compared to what the world is about to endure. A noble sacrifice of the people so that we may continue our mission for salvation."

Setsuna stepped forward, handing Hazuki a crown.

"In the meantime, I should give the people what they want." He put the crown on, heading for the balcony."A word from their prophet. Their savior. And most importantly..."

He stepped into the balcony, watching the streets of the city they were on."Their emperor."


And with that, we're done with the pre-World War 3 side of the story. Next chapter we'll be going straight to the present time.