My next chapter! All of you who loved this crossover, the wait is over. I hope you enjoy it. It took a while before I could finally think of how to continue. And I released this on the week of the last episode of Gaim. Man, I loved that show. I will be sad that this didn't get a longer episode run. Definitely deserved it more than Wizard. These are the last changes to mention. After that, no more.
- Dan Eagleman will be Bravo. But it will be short-lived. Looking back, I was undecided on who Bravo will be, but now I am sure about my choice.
- DJ Sagara will be Kurokage Shin. His lockseed will be similar to Kiwami, but its abilities will be limited, and will still be an energy lockseed.
- No other riders (aside from Blood Gaim, but that's it) will be in this story like Jam, Kamuro, etc. This story will follow only the main Gaim/Guilty Crown storyline with none of the crossover episodes/specials/movies. It may cause some disappointment, but that is my decision. With that out of the way, here's my next chapter.
Phase 07 - Temptation: The Durian Rider Appears!
Shu and Inori were taking the train to school as if nothing happened. Shu was in his thoughts as he felt familiarity in his old routine.
'Huh. Feels like forever since I took the monorail to school. Time really files when you moonlight as a resistance fighter. Part of me wants to go back, but another part of me feels like it doesn't want to.'
The usual scenery of students passing by GHQ tanks on their way to school made Shu feel like what he used to think of as normal now felt like a travesty that saddens his heart. As Shu and Inori switched their regular shoes for the school issued ones, a bunch of male students were talking among themselves as they saw the pop star hang around the convict. One of them spoke out,
"Look who's back guys. Our very own GHQ ex-con."
"I heard about it. Hiromi saw it all go down."
"Looks totally guilty."
Inori look at the male students and wanted to shut them up by force. Shu got in front of her and said,
"Don't bother, Inori. Let them say they want."
Shu grabbed Inori by the wrist and briskly walked away from the peanut gallery continued to paint him as a criminal for laughs. Until a loud slap planted on one of the male students was heard. Shu turned around as he saw a female student with her hand in midair with a stern look on her face. Her hair was blond, her face was beautiful, and possessed a mature figure for someone in her teen years. A group of students near the entrance of the school gathered to see what was happening.
"Care to show me the evidence? Oh wait, you don't have any proof do you? So just drop it."
Shu looked her with surprise. He wondered how she was. The blonde girl approached Shu and talked to him.
"Shu Ouma?"
"Yeah?"
"Let me walk you to class."
xxxxxx
In the classroom, Hare looked at Shu's desk as she sat on her own. She still missed him as she was still under the impression that he was still in jail for crimes he didn't even do.
'I know Shu didn't do anything. He would never do something to deserve to go to jail.'
Just then, the class door slid open and everybody heard it. Of the few students who saw who was coming in, Hare was one of them. They saw Shu Ouma at the door. One of the students spoke out.
"Whoa. Look it's..."
The rest of students in the classroom stopped talking to see him come in. Behind him were Inori Yuzuhira and the blonde girl who stood up for him. Hare smiled in glee to see him in piece. Shu spoke to his classmates.
"Hi everybody. I'm back. Anybody miss me?"
The students were equally stunned not just by Shu's arrival, but at the appearance of the blonde female student. She spoke to Shu to help him get any unsavory rumors squashed when he came back.
"I hope the GHQ took it easy on you."
"Yeah. Turns out it was a total misunderstanding.'
"I have a feeling the debriefing process was a hassle, but we have to do our part to help the government, right?"
"Yeah. As a matter of fact, I was retuning some stolen materials I found when I was walking home. I went to one of their garrison stations, left it at the reception room, that's it. I never expected to be arrested for doing the right thing."
"Well, I just hope this will kill any nasty rumors floating around. But, if anyone does give you anymore..."
Just then, a loud voice calling out Shu's name pierced the air. Souta had just heard of Shu's arrival, and was beaming out joy as ran to hug Shu fiercely.
"SHU! They finally let your ass out of jail, buddy?! So spill, man. How was your time at the big house? What kind of food did you eat? Was it burgers or Japanese?"
Shu was regaining composure when Souta almost shocked him to the floor.
"Uh... Well, in that order: Yes they did. It wasn't that bad. And it was Japanese."
The next person who wanted to ask Shu questions was another female student. She had glasses and brown hair. Her question was a freaky one.
"Um, Shu? I have to ask: They guys in prison, did they try anything when you were in there?"
Shu instantly got the implication of the question. More students stood up, asking Shu all sorts of questions about his time in the GHQ jail. From Endlaves to what the inmates looked like to the soldiers. As Shu and the blonde student were surround by curious classmates, Kanon tried to stand between them, telling everyone to calm down. The blonde female student then spoke to Shu.
"Safe to say, I think nobody will bother you now.
"Pretty much. Thanks for helping me out."
"No problem. It's my job as Student Council President."
Shu smiled. As the excitement simmered down, Shu realized that he never met the Student Council President before. The homeroom teacher came inside last, and saw all his students surrounding Shu. He spoke to Shu first.
"Well, Shu. I see you're enjoying your popularity. Welcome back. Now, if everyone would take a seat. I would appreciate it very much."
The students did so as they sat down for class. The homeroom teacher spoke once again.
"All right, class. We already know the first piece of news I was going to announce today. So, let's go one to the second announcement. We have yet another new student joining us today. Come on in."
As the new student stepped inside, Shu instantly recognized him, and it filled him with rage. The homeroom teacher spoke to the new kid.
"Please introduce yourself to the class."
"Pleased to meet all of you. My name is Takumi Inui"
Shu recognized him. It was 'Kill'em all' Daryl. A.K.A. Kamen Rider Baron. He recognized the blonde hair, but saw Daryl wearing a pair of wire glasses. Shu thought that this guy was enrolling under another name and in disguise. As he saw 'Takumi' taking his seat, the new kid made eye contact with Shu. 'Takumi' briefly saw the anger in his eyes before Shu turned away from him. Daryl had this thought in his mind.
'He doesn't look like much. But that look I saw for a bit. Maybe he's Gaim.'
xxxxxx
As Shu and the rest of his friends/club members went to their club building, Souta was talking about the Student Council President that visited their classroom. Inori was eating a rice ball with the rest of her club mates.
"Arisa Kuohouin. Her grandpa's part of the Kuohouin Group, so she's rich. She's also got a great personality, she's smart, and a total fox. She's the whole package."
Hare was with Shu, helping him catch up on assignments he missed out on. As she help Shu, she noticed that there was something different about him as Shu actually paid her a confident compliment.
"Thanks. You know, you can pretty awesome, Hare. I just regret not saying it sooner."
He smiled at her, and Hare blushed red. She started acting nervous.
"It's nothing."
"I mean it. Really. I can't believe I forgot all about that IC exam."
As Hare looked at Shu, she noticed that he was different somehow. Before she could say anything, Shu spoke first.
"Hey, has anyone heard from Yahiro?"
Souta answered him.
"He hasn't been to school since you got picked up."
xxxxxx
Back at the classroom, Kanon looked over at Yahiro's empty seat. Clearly indicating she was worried about him and if he was safe.
xxxxxx
Back at Shu's apartment, He, Inori, and Funell were folding laundry. Inori asked Shu a question.
"Hey Shu. When you were asking your friends about where Yahiro was. Why do care if he's safe or not? Yahiro did betray you."
"You're right about that. But also he gave me this."
Shu took out his Ichigo lockseed.
"Yahiro gave me this as proof that we were friends for real."
"You also can't forget that they know that GHQ knows you're Gaim, and he played a part in it."
Shu realized that as Inori reminded him of it.
"That's a good point."
Both were silent as Funell kept on folding laundry. Then, the front door of Shu's apartment opened and a voice called out Shu's name.
"Shu, honey. I'm home."
"Ah jeez, Haruka."
Inori was confused.
"Haruka?"
"You gotta hide. Like right now."
However, Shu tripped on the laundry basket and onto Inori in a compromising position.
"Well, well, well. Look who was busy while I was away."
All this happened just when his mother came to the living room, wearing only her purple bra, panties, and nightgown.
"Item 1: Welcome Home. Item 2: WHAT THE HECK ARE DOING? WHAT, DID YOU STRIP IN THE HALL OR SOMETHING?"
Shu yelled as he blushed like crazy seeing his mother in her underwear in front of company.
"Well, hello to you too. What ever happened to 'Hi Mom. Glad to see you.'"
"I am glad, but come on."
"Chill out, my little prude."
Haruka rubbed the top of Shu's head as a way of apologizing less than mature. She then noticed the extra person in the room.
"Hi. Haruka Ouma, and who are you?
Inori bowed on the couch and introduced herself.
"Inori Yuzuhira. Your son has been letting me stay here."
"I hope you don't mind. She's got this brother who works a lot. And the apartment they both stay in is in a bad neighborhood. I hope you don't mind she stays here."
"What's with the robot?"
"Well, Inori's got this genius friend on the other side of the city. So she's... pretty far. She also works for Inori's brother. And, when it comes to this guy, he acts like a total saint in front of everyone. But he's not really like that all. Although he's kinda cool. Wait, that's wrong. Let me start over..."
As Shu kept on talking to keep himself consistent, Haruka took another couple gulps of her beer. Then she spoke.
"GOD, I'm hungry. What about you, Inori? I'm buying. The choices are pizza, pizza, and pizza. Oh, and cake for dessert. Shu, go get it, will you?"
"Like right now?"
"I need more than beer, silly. You can tell me the rest over dinner.
xxxxxx
(Funeral Parlor Headquarters)
As Gai was looking over some files, Ayase, Shibungi, and Argo were with him to discuss about Shu returning to civilian life.
"Gai, are you sure you're okay with Shu going back to school?"
"Better for him to hide in plain sight."
"That seems to be the strategy the Anti-Bodies are using, sending one of their own undercover in Shu's school."
Shibungi spoke, commenting on Inori's report that Daryl Yan enrolled in Shu's school under an alias. Argo spoke next.
"At least Inori with him just in case he gets out of hand."
Ayase spoke out her concerns when it came to Shu's anger over Daryl.
"I don't know how if she can handle it. I heard from her that this Yan guy is a total prick with a homicidal edge. Not her words though, it's just how I describe him."
"I'll talk with Shu tomorrow to see how he is about him. If he feels the impulse to do something reckless, I'll talk him out of it."
Said Gai. Shibungi spoke next, wanting to address another concern he had on his mind.
"As much as I am genuinely concerned about this matter, there's another problem I like to talk about. The last few missions has left us dangerously low in supplies."
"We got some money out of the OAU, didn't we?"
"As a matter of fact, yes Argo. But the issue I am raising is funding. We need a benefactor to do the purchasing on our behalf."
Gai spoke out the necessary solution to their financial situation.
"We need a sponsor. A partner in our operations."
"Indeed."
"I might have someone in mind."
xxxxxx
(Shu's Apartment)
Funell was picking up some garbage that was mostly Haruka's doing. She felt the need to entertain her guest in a major way. She was in her nightgown ready for sleep. She wanted to talk to Shu in private for a while Inori helped Funell with clean-up duty.
"Nice one, kiddo. She's cute. A little weird, but not bad. There's something about her that wanna make you take care of her."
"Kind of. It's like she's way stronger than I am, but she can also be fragile. I care about her. But it's not in a boyfriend-girlfriend kind of way. She doesn't have a lot of friends, and I just wanna make sure that she can trust someone and not feel weak because of that."
Haruka hugged Shu from behind. This caused Shu be embarrassed due to the fact that Haruka drank a lot of beers.
"Cut it out. You're being all clingy and drunk."
"Aw, now you're old for hugs?"
Shu sighed in resignation.
"Do whatever you want."
Inori knocked on Haruka's bedroom door.
"Sorry to interrupt, but I finished with the cleaning."
"All right. It was a long day, so I don't know about you but I'm ready to call it a night."
Shu silently agreed to what Haruka said and decided to go to sleep himself. Before he did so, his mother wanted to embarrass him one more time.
"Don't be so loud, you two."
"...Haruka!"
"Good night."
Shu was still blushing red. Inori looked at Shu's back with curiosity.
xxxxxx
Shu and Inori took the train to school as usual. Shu spoke to Inori about last night.
"Hey Inori."
"Yeah?"
"Sorry about my mom last night. She can be like this sometimes. All immature and shameless. Don't hold it against her"
"I'm not. She seems nice."
Shu was surprised that someone liked his mother's company. Inori even smiled about last night. When they were walking to school, they both noticed a large crown near the entrance of the school. Shu and Inori asked one of the students what was happening.
"The new kid, Takumi Inui. He challenged one of the members of the karate club to a match. New guy's totally kicking his ass."
Both of them were surprised by this. Shu and Inori dug through the crown only to see something horrifying. The karate club member with a bloody and bruised face while his opponent did not even had a scratch on his face. Shu knew that the guy is actually both a GHQ Endlave pilot and Kamen Rider Baron. He felt bad for the karate club member, with short black hair and a muscular build, putting up a valiant fight against a seasoned warrior who thrives in and enjoys intense battle. Takumi ran towards his opponent to deliver the finishing blow, but Shu did something unexpected of him. He got in front the karate club member, and grabbed Takumi's wrist just before he was going to deal a fatal blow to his opponent's face. Takumi had an angry look in his eyes, and proceeded to kick Shu in the face. But Shu blocked it by grabbing Takumi's leg by the ankle. He squeezed them for a while until he let go of both of Takumi's arm and leg. Shu then went to the karate club member.
"Hey, what's your name?"
"Hiroshi... Sato."
"Let me take you to the nurse, Hiroshi."
Shu carried Hiroshi to the nurse's office. Takumi wanted to continue the fight, but before he could do anything, a teacher yelled out to the crowd. The crowd dispersed, with Takumi disappearing inside as they fled. The only one left were Shu, with Hiroshi on his left shoulder, and Inori. Before the teacher could interrogate Shu, he interrupted him.
"Sir, I don't exactly know what happened. But right now, I need to take Hiroshi to the nurse's office. He's hurt pretty bad."
"All right. Help him out."
xxxxxx
Shu eventually made to the nurse's office with Hiroshi on one of the medical beds, with Inori following him. Hiroshi thanked Shu while Inori waited near the door.
"You're Shu Ouma, right? The student arrested by the GHQ?"
"Yeah, I am."
"Thanks for helping me out."
"Anytime."
"Although, can you do me one favor? Can you not tell anyone about this fight? I don't want to dishonor my teammates."
"Don't worry, I won't."
"Thanks."
"Get better, pal."
Shu left the nurse's office. He heard a few of his schoolmates about the fight. He went to them to ask about the fight.
"Hey, um... did you who started the fight?"
One of his schoolmates spoke first.
"I heard it was Inui. Hiroshi just bumped into the guy. Next thing you know, Inui just whaled on the guy. Knew where to hit him hard, and fast."
Another student spoke out.
"Hiroshi tried to fight back, but he didn't stand a chance."
Then a female student spoke out, telling Shu of Takumi's depravity in the fight.
"It was almost scary, too. They way Takumi fights; it was almost like how an animal kills its prey. Sato was a member of the karate club. I don't know how he could be defeated so brutally."
Shu knew who Takumi was. And how he fights. He wanted to tell. Just then Inori pulled his arm.
"We need to get to class. Thank you for your time."
Inori pulled on Shu's arm, but she was not leading him to class. They both walked out of the building until Shu and Inori found an empty spot. Shu was curious as to why Inori wanted to be here.
"Inori, why'd you bring me here?"
Inori took out an earpiece, and handed it to him.
"Gai wants to talk to you."
Shu placed the earpiece on his ear. He heard Gai's voice.
"Shu, did you do anything to Daryl?"
"Wait, why are you concerned about what happens to Daryl?"
"Because I didn't send back to your regular life only for you to lose it just because you're pissed off at someone."
"Okay, first of all, if I did anything to him, he deserved it. You know what he does, and he does it with glee. Second of all, I didn't reveal to anyone I want I do, okay? I just stopped a fight that he started."
"Did you fight him back?"
"No, I didn't."
"Good. I want you to understand this, Shu. Even though all the data GHQ had on you were erased, there are still a percentage of people who still know who you are and what you can do. However, they don't want anyone to know the existence of those monsters that you face as well. GHQ still operates as a governmental body, so they don't want the citizens of this country to go on a rioting frenzy. That stands, the powers that be have decided to send Daryl to keep an eye on you. I don't know exactly why, but..."
"I guess to make sure I don't blow the lid of the fact that they have the Inves they have on a leash."
"Yes. Was the fight interrupted, by any chance?"
"Yeah. A teacher saw the whole thing, and the rest of the students ran. Come to think of it, so did he."
"That means he's trying to keep a low profile as well. Shu, this is really important. You need to avoid Daryl as much as you can. If you do encounter him, just try not to start anything. Pretend you don't know who he is. If you have to, be on friendly terms with him."
Shu knew what Gai meant, and he took this opportunity to be honest with himself and his leader.
"HOW CAN I?! EVERY TIME I LOOK AT THIS GUY, I WANNA KICK HIS ASS. NOT BECAUSE I'M A BULLY, BUT BECAUSE I AM SERIOUSLY PISSED OFF AT THE FACT THAT HE LOOKS AT MY FRIENDS AND EVERY OTHER GOOD PERSON IRRELEVANT! He was willing to kill other people, and he doesn't even care that he does so by accident. I know you want me to do this, but I really want to make him pay because I never seen anybody with such a callous disregard for other people. Not to mention, he's a Kamen Rider. And so am I. I take that mantle seriously, and he looks at it like it's another toy he can use for laughs."
Gai, impressed by his passion to do the right thing, calmed him down.
"I know how you feel, Shu. People like Daryl Yan are part of the reason why we exist. Yes, I do understand making people like him pay. But, if you get taken by the GHQ for good, who will be left to take them on when you can't? Believe me when I say this. Daryl may destroy them, but you're the only super-powered person who cares who the monsters hurt. Do this not for me. Do this for what you believe in."
Shu was surprised by what Gai said. Every reason to act in anger, Gai dosed it down with reason rooted in a reality he wanted to change. Shu eventually agreed.
"All right. I'll keep a low profile."
"Good. Tonight, I'm going on a solo mission. I have to meet with a potential benefactor. Stay in touch in case I need you."
"All right."
Gai hung up. Shu returned Inori's earpiece and said to her,
"We need to get to class."
Inori nodded, and both of them went to class.
xxxxxx
(GHQ Headquarters)
Keido has having a video conference with Segai about Daryl's undercover assignment.
"How is the lieutenant doing so far?"
"We have a slight problem regarding that. It seems he's started a fight with a student. Luckily, none of the students are talking to the teachers. But as high school gossip goes, all sorts of rumors are flying around. One piece of useful information came out. Shu Ouma stopped the fight."
"Does he still have connections with Funeral Parlor?"
"Unfortunately, we don't know that. We simply can't arrest him without the proof to show for it. All our evidence were mysteriously wiped out after the Tsukigase attack."
"Did Sagara have anything to do with this?"
"All he said was he met with the terrorists, talked with them, and deduced their attack on us was a double-headed effort to destroy both the Leukocyte and all evidence pertaining Shu's connection to Funeral Parlor. That was all he reported."
"You have any doubts?"
"Unsubstantiated, but yes."
"Wish we could do more, but the Anti-Bodies have been reduced to a smaller unit."
"Could've been worse. We could have been disbanded if it wasn't due to the Inves 'situation' that we have."
"Now we're stuck with only a handful of soldiers, and the latest recruit."
"What I can't believe is that Sagara would actually think that man would be a Rider candidate."
xxxxxx
(two days earlier)
In an undisclosed medical room, Sagara, Keido, and Segai were meeting a Rider candidate. He was large and wide, had military cut blonde hair, a jacket with lots of medals, and attitude that was both "bro" and condescending. In short, American. His name was Dan Eagleman. While Keido and Segai were internally scowling, Sagara had a big smile on his face.
"I'm know I'm new around here, but I'm sure my gums will be knocking you dead sure enough. I'm Dan Eagleman. I'm the kind of guy who believes that the right kind of attitude gets the job. GO BIG OR GO HOME!"
Keido and Segai looked at each other and thought internally,
'Is he for real?'
Sagara, on the other hand, just laughed at Dan's eagerness.
"That is an awesome thing to say, Colonel."
"Just Dan, Mr. Sagara. Colonel just too stuffy. I like to keep it real."
"Hey so do I. I'm sure we'll get along just fine."
"Now that's what I'm talking about. The reason why I came here was because of this."
Dan took out his holo-tablet, and played video clips of Gaim defeating monsters.
"I don't mind decent citizens like him going out of their way to protect innocent civilians, but killing these things should seriously be a job for the GHQ. I heard with some of the soldiers that you already one of these armored monster fighters in your ranks. So, I was wondering if there's was a new unit comprising of these guys. And if so, I want to join."
Before either Keido or Segai could speak, Sagara spoke first.
"Well then, Dan. Follow me to the operating room."
"All right. Do I need a gown or anything?"
"No, but considering your size, we feel the need for you to be secure during the procedure."
They all got to the operating room with a rectangular board in the center under a large lamp. The board had huge steel restraints meant to keep the person on the table for safety reasons.
"So, uh... you're a doctor, Mr. Sagara?"
"That is one of my professions, yes. Don't worry, Dan. You're in good hands. The procedure doesn't have any side effects, but we need you on that table due to your body size. The procedure will cause some intense convulsions. Once that part is over, you will receive the power to destroy the Inves that plagues this nation."
"You're talking about those monsters, right?"
"Precisely. Please lay down, and I will administer the vial for the procedure."
Dan followed Sagara's instructions. Sagara then turned his attention to Keido and Segai.
"I'll need you two gentlemen to wait in the observation deck."
They both did so, and went to the seats above the operating table. Keido and Segai sat, and looked down on the doctor and his patient. Sagara took out a blue vial, and placed it on an injection needle. He then applied rubbing alcohol on Dan's arm, and proceeded to ease Dan into the operation.
"Now, this will not be an easy procedure to go through. You will not die from this, but I am going to put under anesthesia. You might experience a psychological event, but just let the whole thing run its course. You'll wake up a new man capable of great things. Are you ready?"
"You got it, man. LAY IT ON ME!"
Sagara placed the knock-out gas on the Colonel, pierced Dan's skin with the needle, and injected the Sengoku Genome. After a while, convulsions started to happen. Dan's body started to jump a bit until the table started to shake. The metal bindings almost came off the bolts. After the worst of it passed, crystal streams materialized out of the colonel's chest, and formed a Sengoku Driver. It dropped on the ground. Keido and Segai watched a familiar sight, and both came to the conclusions that one of the most overbearing people they have ever met is a GHQ Kamen Rider.
xxxxxx
(Now)
"I don't know what went through that man's mind, but it must be quite a mess up here to choose the quarterback as a candidate."
"Regardless, having an additional rider to our ranks might help us apprehend Funeral Parlor. Make sure the colonel does not know of our plan. He has a connection to the top brass. Everything he knows, they know. In the meantime, we continue the undercover assignment. Make sure lieutenant Yan doesn't blow his cover."
"Affirmative sir. Segai out."
xxxxxx
(Afternoon)
Shu and Inori were taking the train home. Shu remembered how the rest of his day went. The students who still kept talking about him, the teachers who asked him questions about the fight, and how he had to lie to them all because of his secret. All the while Shu wanted to tell his friends that he was Kamen Rider Gaim, but he couldn't due to that he would put their lives at risk. Luckily, no monster attacks happened and GHQ didn't brutally violated human rights today. Just for once, Shu could just relax. When he and Inori came home, they both saw Haruka in a scarlet dress. She explained.
"I'm going to a social event tonight. Shu, you're in charge tonight. I see you both tomorrow."
When she left, Shu had a blank look on his face. Inori then told him about the social event that was going to happen.
"Tonight, a social event will be held in an anniversary of the day when Japan surrendered its sovereignty to the GHQ. It will consist of powerful Japanese capitalists who are in opposition of the occupation currently happening here. The one organizing this is the head of the Kouhouin Group."
"Arisa's grandfather?"
"Yes. Okina Kouhouin."
xxxxxx
(Nighttime in International waters)
A cruise ship belong to the Kouhouin group was still in the ocean, and quite a distance from the GHQ building. In the main ballroom, Okina Kouhouin was prepared to give a speech to his guests. Within the crown were Haruka, Arisa, and Gai Tsutsugami. Arisa looked around the people who see her grandfather as a leading figure. She wondered if she would viewed the same way when she takes charge of the family company.
xxxxxx
(flashback)
Arisa was having dinner with her grandfather. Also at the dinner table were a couple of her grandfather's assistance. They were discussing the state of the family company. Needless to say, due to the harsh economic regulations imposed by a foreign body, it was bad.
"There are external factors at work, sir. Yes, the Kouhouin group's overall market share is down by 25 points from last year, but with the GHQ putting Article 301 into effect last month, we're lucky it wasn't even worse."
Arisa's grandfather loudly tapped his pipe to the table, ceasing his assistance's underwhelming attempt to find the bright side to a dismal situation.
"I don't pay you to feed me excuses. Next time, give me results."
The assistant left, leaving Arisa alone with her grandfather.
"Arisa, my dear. You will accompany me to the party tomorrow."
"With pleasure, grandfather."
xxxxxx
The speech commenced.
"It has been 10 long years since we have ceded control of our nation to the GHQ. Judging by their apathy, our countrymen are content to let this occupation continue. But Japan is our land. The time has long since past for us to stand on our own two feet, and hold our heads high. Even as we speak, there are those within our nation who would rather fight and die than see this land continue to live in occupational rule for one more day. We must take this as a sign of necessary changes to come. Radical changes that must take place in order for us to regain our pride and restore our dignity as a country."
The crowd applauded and cheered for Okina's words of necessity and hope. Then the party started. As Haruka was talk amongst the various guests, one of Okina's bodyguards approached and told her,
"Mr. Kouhouin requests your presence. Come with me, please."
As Haruka went upstairs to where Okina was sitting, Gai was at the bottom. He disguised himself as one of the waiters handing out hors d'oeuvres on a silver platter. He then went back to the locker room to retrieve an item. A cell phone that could only receive calls, and it was made for Okina Kouhouin in mind. Back on the private table, Okina was having a conversation with Haruka.
"I didn't think you would do me the honor of coming here tonight. Did you tell Keido about this?"
"No. After all, what did took place was, in fact, partly my responsibility."
"What happened was tragic, but it was just an accident."
"I know that, but the reason why I feel this way is because of my son. My husband was always busy. The Apocalypse Virus made sure of that. But he loved his child. He just didn't have enough time to show it. Sometimes I wonder if Shu even remembers him."
"Your son, Shu Ouma?"
"Yes. How did you know...?"
"My granddaughter, Arisa, goes to his school. She also heard about his encounter with GHQ. I thought you knew that he was arrested on false pretenses."
Haruka was shocked to say the least. Al this time she was working, her son was in GHQ custody for something he didn't commit. This made her feel like a bad mother, knowing that she wasn't there for him.
"I am the worst..."
"Don't say such things. If your son is a good person as you believe him to be, then I am sure did nothing wrong. But all the more reason why we must strive to rid ourselves of the GHQ. How much must our young suffer like this if we adults fail to prevent this sort of fascism happening on our shores?"
"Thank you. Please excuse me."
As she descended down the stairs, Gai was in earshot of the conversation. He whispered,
"I sorry to do this to your son, Dr. Ouma."
She did hear him, but turned around too late as Gai made his way to Okina Kouhouin. The bodyguards reached for their firearms. Okina stopped them by raising his hand. He spoke to Gai.
"I don't recall giving you an invitation, Gai Tsutsugami."
"I trust that it was nothing more than a harmless oversight on your part."
Gai had with him a silver platter with a metal cover. He untopped the platter to reveal a phone.
"Do you now?"
"I come to you with a proposition. To save Japan"
xxxxxx
(The next day)
Shu's day started out as usual. He took the train to school with Inori by his side. What was different this morning before he left was that his mother acted different.
xxxxxx
(Earlier)
As Inori was waiting by the door, Haruka appeared in the hall, fully clothed. She asked Inori,
"Inori, could wait a little bit? I just want to talk to Shu."
Inori nodded yes to the request. Shu, having heard it, was curious about this sudden change.
"Haruka, what is it?"
"I know, Shu. I understand why you don't want to talk about it."
Shu was thinking,
'What is she talking about? Wait, is she talking about when I got arrested? Or is it about me being Gaim? I need to calm down a little bit. I'll go with the obvious first.'
"It was a big misunderstanding. It turned out fine in the end."
"Shu, you got arrested. That's not something you just sweep under the rug."
'Okay, so it was about me being arrested.'
"If you ever want to talk about it, I'm here."
"Thanks, but right now, I gotta get to school."
Haruka looked at Shu, and thought the reason why Shu didn't want to talk was because she wasn't much of an adult to confide in. She looked on at Shu, wondering if he was fine as he says he was.
xxxxxx
As Shu and Inori made it to the train station, an announcement was made over the station intercom.
"Attention, all train routes have been delayed due to an emergency situation at the Shibuya district."
Shu knew that district. It was one of the stops on his way to school. Inori saw a nearby TV monitor with a live news report. Inori called out to Shu.
"Shu, look at this."
He went to where Inori was. He saw the news report.
"I repeat, all citizens are to avoid Shibuya district immediately. This is Shinji Ishikawa reporting to you live from the scene. GHQ soldiers have cordoned off the area to avoid more civilian casualties. We are reporting to you live to bring you this development. There are monsters. Human-sized, grey, hunchbacked monsters with big claws, and they are attacking ordinary citizens on the streets. One of the monsters is distinctive for being like that of a bat."
Just then, the bat-like monster the reporter was describing attacked the cameraman. The live feed cut, but the news station had the last image of the bat-like creature. It was black red all over with red and white wings that were a part of its body like extensions of his wings. Shu saw all this with horror. This was the Komori Inves. Inori received a call from Tsugumi. She tried to grab Shu by the wrist, but he had already went to the men's room to change. Shu went to an empty toilet stall, and took out his blue hoodie from his school bag. Standing near a back emergency exit, Inori spoke to Tsugumi.
"Shu, do you read me?"
"This is Inori."
"Where's Shu? I need to talk to him."
"He's changing right now. He knows about the Inves attack in Shibyuya district, and is heading there, right now."
"Tell him not to go. It's a trap set by the GHQ. Gai told me they have new recruit to take Gaim down. You have to make sure he doesn't go."
By the time Inori found Shu, it was too late. Shu ran outside, activated his lock vehicle, and sped to the Shibuya district. Inori had a worried look on her face. She spoke to Tsugumi.
"Shu has already gone ahead."
xxxxxxx
(Funeral Parlor Headquarters)
Tsugumi had her holo-terminal on various channels. One for the news report, one for the street cameras, and one for GHQ communiques. What she gathered was ongoing situation with the Komori Inves, how the soldiers were handling of the situation, and the requested back-up that was proceeding to its destination. Gai came shortly to the main library where the Funeral Parlor members usually meet. Argo, Shibungi, Ayase, and other fighters were there as well. They were all hearing about the ongoing situation and were wondering why they weren't there to do something. And why the one guy in their ranks who could do something about it cannot go and fight the monsters. Gai came as soon as everyone got in. He went to Tsugumi.
"Did Shu get the message?"
"No, he didn't. As soon he heard 'monster attack,' he goes into superhero mode, and races to save the day. Idiot didn't stop to hear what he needed to hear."
"Let him go."
Everyone was confused as why Gai said that. Ayase and Argo said what everyone in the room was thinking.
"Gai, you actually want Shu to go to the Shibuya district?"
"Last time I checked, there's a trap involving GHQ soldiers, vicious man-killing creatures, and quite possibly, another Kamen Rider with no sense of humanity."
"Shu can handle it. However, let's keep an eye on the situation. See how it all plays out."
Shibungi looked at Gai with a look on his face indicating that Gai has a hidden reason for this.
xxxxxx
Shu raced to the scene of the Inves attack that was happening in Shibuya. He cut through traffic and looked for any shortcuts to take. He eventually found a direct route to Shibuya. One thing came to mind as he took the route.
'That's funny. I don't see any soldiers guarding this route.'
Just as Shu took the route, one GHQ soldier saw him pass by. He took out a radio, and called to his superior.
"Target confirmed. He's heading to the scene."
"Good. Close off the route. Relay to all units that Gaim has enter into the vicinity. If he attempts to escape, open fire on him."
"Affirmative, Major Segai."
Segai was in a command trailer. He then made the call to the new Kamen Rider.
"Colonel Dan? We have a situation."
xxxxxx
The people in the Shibuya were panicking for their lives. Some of them went running in droves trying to get away from the monsters trying to eat them. While other hid in alleyways and barricaded buildings to have any semblance of safety. There were only a couple dozen citizens left. However, it wasn't enough. The Inves would tear down their attempts of survival with sheer, inhuman strength. The survivors were now surrounded by monsters in the middle of the street. No hope was in sight. Just then, motorcycle sounds were heard. From the monsters to the civilians, time had stopped the moment all heard the sounds of revving gears. From the east, a figure concealing his face with a blue hoodie had arrived. Two of the civilians saw and recognized that person. One was an elder man with grey hair and the other was a young female with short black hair and freckles.
"Oh my god. It's him. I saw him fighting against these same kinds of monsters from before. Remember, Grandpa?"
"Yes, sweetie. He saved us from these monsters before."
Among the civilians was the news reporter that was on the scene of the Inves attack. His cameraman died on the line of fire, and the camera had broken into pieces. However, he had one camera. They were his glasses. Shu looked at the civilians who were scared for their lives. As well as hearing a couple of them mentioning saving their lives before.
'I think a heard a couple of them saying I saved them before. Maybe they were there when I wiped out the Inves that attacked the park near my apartment. I'll worry about that later. Right now, I need to transform.'
He summoned his Sengoku Driver and placed it on his waist. Then he activated his lockseed and said,
"HENSHIN!"
"ORANGE!"
A metallic orange appeared over him. Shu did his pose and placed his lockseed on his driver.
"LOCK-ON!"
The driver then played the Japanese horagai music with a techno beat before Shu used the Cutting Blade on his driver.
"SOIYA! ORANGE ARMS! HANAMICHI ON STAGE! "
Shu pulled the cock hammer on his Musou Saber, shot a couple rounds at one of the Inves in the face, and called out to the monsters.
"Yeah, I shot you in the face. Big whoop, wanna fight about it?"
The Inves horde charged towards Gaim. Shu readied his Daidaimaru for the fight that was coming his way. Just then, a RPG shell exploded between Gaim and the Inves horde. A large force of GHQ soldiers appeared. Amongst them was a large, muscular, blonde American with a loud voice and an obnoxious tone.
"That's awesome, troops! Now get the civilians to a safe distance. Right behind the roadblock we got here."
The Inves continued their assault on Shu. While the soldiers were confused about histhe Colonel's orders. One of them spoke up.
"But sir, shouldn't we get them to a safer distance than here?"
"My first appearance needs to be unforgetable. I intend to redine the word 'superhero' because of that guy."
Colonel Dan pointed to Gaim while he was fighting off the Inves horde.
"He may have good fighting skills, but we soldiers of GHQ are here for a reason. And if these monsters are here because of the Apocalypse Virus, then it's our responsibility to fight these things. Not his."
Colonel Dan took a RPG launcher and fired a round at one of them. The Inves horde turned around at him.
"Why don't you ugly freaks take a shot at me?"
Shu thought,
'Is this guy crazy? Yeah he's big, but it takes more than raw muscle to kill them.'
However, instead of acting like the Hulk smashing monsters, Colonel Dan instead closed his eyes and did something familiar.
'Please don't tell me.'
Colonel Dan did the visualization technique to summon his Sengoku Driver, and placed it on his waist.
'Ah damn. Not another GHQ rider. I already got my hands full with the sociopath that goes to my school.'
Colonel Dan then took out a lockseed. It was a darker shade of yellow with spikes on the front. The lettering on it read 'LS-12.' This was the Durian lockseed. Colonel Dan did an exaggerated pose while yelling out,
"HEEEEENNNNSHIN!"
"DURIAN!"
A metallic durian appeared over Colonel Dan. He then placed the lockseed on his driver.
"LOCK-ON!"
The driver played an heavy metal tune with a techno beat. Colonel Dan acted like a heavy metal rock star playing his guitar in a 'kick-ass' way, then sliced the lockseed with the cutting blade and another electric guitar riff played as the lockseed opened. The metallic durian descended onto Colonel Dan, and formed a green with silver on the torso pre-arm suit.
"DURIAN ARMS! MISTER DANGEROUS!
The durian unfolded into a type of armor. It was green with spikes all over. Its design was similar to that of football shoulder pads. The shoulder pads had spikes on them as well. The helmet had a comb of hair on the top, similiar to that of how punk rockers would fashion their hair. The weapons that appeared in his hands were the Duri Nokos, a pair of spiked clubs with serrated edges.
"ALL RIGHT. HERE I AM FOR ALL THE WORLD TO SEE! I! AM! KAMEN RIDER BRAVO!"
The only sound that was made for the moment was the gusty wind as the humans and the monsters stood silent. Shu broke the silence.
"Uh... Bravo?"
"Well, yeah. It's what people are gonna say when they see me in action saving their lives. Now, watch me be a bad-ass!"
Colonel Dan began his battle at the incoming Inves horde. He swings his Duri Nokos at the monsters and swatted them like flies. His strength was formidible, to say the least. One by one, the Inves horde were struck down by blows with the same force of a wrecking ball. The horde were on their last legs. Weakened by Bravo's powerful strikes, the horde were facing certain death. Bravo flipped the cutting blade on his driver. As he did, a guitar riff played.
"DURIAN SQUASH!"
A large wave of energy formed at the hair mane. With one swing of his head, Bravo slammed the energy from his comb to the Inves horde, effectively destroying them. When the explosion subsided, Shu stopped fliching. He saw the sheer power of this new rider.
'I just hope he isn't like Baron. I don't thing I can take on two hearless murderers coming after me.'
Bravo then turned his attention to Gaim and talked to him.
"One chance, kid. Surrender to us, and I won't hurt and arrest you. Rather the opposite will happen if you do surrender. You can join us. I can get you inducted as a special member of a new unit that's forming right now. One that this dedicated to battling these monsters that's harming innocent people. I know for a fact that you want to protect people. And that's good! That is awesome that you decided to use your powers for other people instead of yourself. But the Inves are not our only problem right now. There's terrorists that doing the same kind of damage that these monsters are doing. This is a fact. There are people in the world right that use their might to do wrong things. We can be the ones who can take them down, and deliver freedom. So, how about it?"
Shu had only one thought in his head.
'Is he serious? Or maybe he doesn't know?'
Shu spoke out to Bravo.
"No, I won't. And it isn't because I'm some glory hog. I know the true face of the GHQ, and believe me. It's not the one you're painting right now. I have seen horrors that your organization have committed. And THAT is a fact."
"Then prepare for pain, because that's all you're getting from me from now on."
The fight between Gaim and Bravo was on. The citizens that saw from a few feet away saw Bravo's fight with the Inves, his conversation with Gaim, and how both sides eventually fought against each other. The on-feld reporter recorded all this through his camera-glasses. He even had a little notebook with him to make notes about this story. Gaim and Bravo struck at each other with ferocity. Both had relatively similar military training. However, the big difference between the two of them was physical strength. Bravo had more muscle on him than Gaim. As such, he was striking him down hard. Even though Gaim was putting up a valiant effort, determination wasn't enough to win this fight, let alone escape. Gaim did land a few sword blows onto Bravo, but Bravo dealt greater damage onto Gaim. Shu was feeling fatigue as his fight against Bravo dragged on.
'The longer this fight goes on, the more I feel the pain finally getting to me. Time to shake it up.'
Shu took off his orange lockseed...
"LOCK-OFF."
and placed it on his Musou Saber.
"LOCK-ON! 1, 10, 100! ORANGE CHARGE!"
Bravo got closer to Gaim until Bravo was hit by Gaim's Musou Saber energy slice. This wasn't enough to force Colonel Dan out of his armor, but it was enough to buy Shu time to change into his Jimber armor. He took out his Genesis Core. The faceplate on his driver dissipated, and then he slid the core sideways onto his driver. He activated his energy lockseed.
"LEMON ENERGY!"
The lemon lockseed then played a techno tune as it was activated. The Orange folded shut and unlocked on its own when that happened. Shu then placed the lemon lockseed on the core and locked both of them.
"LOCK-ON!"
The driver then played the Japanese horagai music with a techno beat before Shu used the Cutting Blade on his driver.
"SOIYA! MIX!"
As Shu's orange armor folded back to a metallic orange, a metallic lemon was above him and the orange. The metallic fruit collided and fused together to create a new type of armor.
"ORANGE ARMS! HANAMICHI ON STAGE! JIMBER LEMON! HA HA!"
Bravo stood cautious and confused.
"What the hell is that?"
"This is my stage."
The tides of battle had changed to Shu's favor now. The increased strength that the Lemon Energy Lockseed gave to Shu increased his power by a significant margin. Now Bravo was feeling the pain getting to him. Even though Bravo was dealing powerful swings from his Duri Nokos to Gaim, the slashes from Gaim's Sonic Arrow dealt more damage to him than he to Gaim. Colonel Dan was feeling frustrated to the fact that his behind was being handed to him.
"Damn it! Why can't you see we're here to really help people?"
"Because whatever your bosses are telling you are straight-up lies. Your organization are killing us in our country behind our backs. And if being against the systematic genocide of innocent people makes me a enemy of GHQ, then I take that mantle with no regrets. I have to fight because I know the truth of your actions, and I refuse it take it anymore. Because of the inherent inhumanity that exists in GHQ, I can't afford to lose. And I know I am not alone when I say that."
Shu placed his Lemon lockseed on his Sonic Arrow.
"LOCK-ON!"
"Than eat this."
Colonel Dan flipped the cutting blade on his driver twice.
"DURIAN AU LAIT!"
Shu flipped the Cutting Blade on his driver once.
"SOIYA! ORANGE SQUASH!"
Yellow energy was gathering when Shu pulled back the firing bow on his Sonic Arrow. Bravo raised his two clubs to form a large energy durian. As both energy attacks finished froming, Bravo launched his attack first...
"LEMON ENERGY!"
Only for it to be shattered through by Gaim's energy arrow and then later to be hit by the same arrow. This caused the transformation to be cancelled. The GHQ soldiers at first were apprehensive to to retrieve Colonel Dan because Gaim was in between them and their commanding officer. However, Shu let them go, but not before saying something.
"If you want to make sure he's alive, I won't get in your way. Just remember, I will not tolerate massacres like Roppongi."
Shu opened his lock vehicle, it unraveled and expanded, and rode off from the scene. From the people who witnessed the whole fight between riders and monsters to the soldiers who were recovering their commanding officer, all were confused as to what Gaim had. The citizens who lived in the city were wondering if the government they trusted with their security and aid were lying to them and actually conducting some sort of secret holocaust. While the soldiers mostly believed the orange armored warrior's words to be complete garbage, some of the wondered if some of those words had a sliver of truth in them. All this was caught in the field reporter's camera-glasses. Camera-glasses that had a secret live feed to the Okina household.
xxxxxx
(In a mansion)
"I admit, your claims of being able to defend against the second order Leukocyte were valid. That live demonstration of yours is hard to argue with. Very well. You have a deal."
Gai was on the phone with Okina Kouhouin, who just agreed to be the benefactor of Funeral Parlor.
"Please give my regards to your associate, Mr. Ishikawa, for his cooperation. Pays to have friends in the media, doesn't it?"
He then turned around to break the news to his fellow team members.
"I have good news to report. As of right now, the Kouhouin group as agreed to be the sponsor of Funeral Parlor."
All cheered at the good news with glee. Ayase eagerly asked Gai,
"So I can use Steiner again?"
"Pretty much."
She cheered as well alongside her teammates. Tsugumi then remembered the question that was on her mind.
"Hey Gai, how did you know about the new Kamen Rider had with them?"
"Let's just say I have an inside source."
Gai remembered how it took him and a certain other presenter to convince him to invest in Funeral Parlor.
xxxxxx
(Flashback)
As Gai explained how his group were able to stop the Leukocyte from being completed, Okina Kouhouin, although impressed, was somewhat unconvinced.
"As much as I am interested in hearing more about your group and their efforts to resist against the GHQ, you must understand that I am, to put it lightly, unconvinced at the more 'fantastic' aspects of your battles."
"If it wasn't for the existence of the Apocalypse Virus, I would agree with you. However I am telling the truth. GHQ is utilizing genetically-engineered creatures to further their control of Japan. And I have someone from the GHQ to prove it. And I am definitely not talking about Dr. Ouma."
"Listen to me when I say this. He's definitely not talking about the cute fox in the scarlet dress and brown ponytail."
All turned their heads at the sight of DJ Sagara holding a steel briefcase.
"Nice of you to finally come, DJ Sagara."
"Well, it was a little hard to come here without my bosses knowing."
Okina was vaguely familiar with that name.
"Pardon me for asking, but do I know you from somewhere?"
"Maybe not face-to-face, but do you have a granddaughter who goes to high school? Because my webcast is largely popular with the high school kids. But, that's just my day job."
Gai stepped in and explained who he really works for.
"He's actually a GHQ scientist. He specializes in Void technology."
Okina smiled halfway at the concept of what kind of person Sagara actually was.
"A GHQ scientist working as a DJ for an internet show. It's kind of funny in a surreal way. Let me ask you: Is this something the GHQ is doing now? Silently manipulating our children with propaganda while creating creatures that kill everyone else who do not agree with them? You sound less like an organization dedicated to humanitarian aid and more like Spanish Conquistadors."
Gai looked at Sagara. Sagara still had a smile on his face.
"And you are right...about them. As for me, I have my reasons for being in GHQ. It's just not the ones you're thinking of. To prove it, I have something to show you."
Sagara then placed the suitcase on the table between the two groups and opened it.
"What I am going to show you is classified information. This isn't even shown to the supreme commander of GHQ. This just goes to show what is being told and what isn't"
He turned the case around to show a holo-terminal with actual footage from inside the facility. The Inves experiments, the developments of the Void gemones, and all the secrets meeting being kept from the top brass. There were also footage of Kamen Rider Gaim destroying the monsters and weapons they created. All this surprised Okina. Sagara then closed the case and proceeded to make his point.
"As you can see, what this guy is telling you is no lie. We have a classic scenario straight out of a Shotaro Ishinomori manga. A secret organization with an ulterior motive that ruins lives as a consequence is here in Japan, and we are suffering for it through biological terrorism, fascist manipulation, and subjugation. As brave as those who see their 'goodwill' for what it really is, a front, and resist with every fiber in their being, it is not enough. They need something more. So, I let one of my discoveries escape and land into Funeral Parlor's hands. That orange armored warrior you saw on the footage is proof."
"And for what reason do have that could justify you taking this course of action that will eventually get you in hot water with the very organization you intend to betray?"
Gai and Okina paid close attention to Sagara's words. What he could say next determined the kind of man he really was. Sagara said only one word.
"Loyalty. That's all I want to say. The rest will be explained by Gai."
Gai then took his turn.
"Sir, if you need more convincing, then I may have something that can make you see we are telling you the truth. A live demonstration of what Funeral Parlor is capable of. We will prove to you that we are serious when I say this. We will free Japan from GHQ."
xxxxxx
Shu finally arrived at the station where he took off. On his way back, he once again noticed that there were no obstacles blocking his path.
'I got away from there just as easily as I go in. Maybe it was a trap?'
The following train of thought made Shu ripe with anxiety.
'Holy crap! If it was a trap, then I lost the fight, I would've been a prisoner of GHQ again. Last time I was in jail, I got off easy because I was a pawn. If I got caught again, there would be no going back! I'd go to real jail with thugs and criminal bigger, taller, and badder than ME! Even worse, if I went to real jail, what would happen I... I... dropped the soap?'
Shu acted out in panic as he let his imagination get the better of him. While in the process of internally freaking out, someone touched Shu on the should. This made him majorly flinch in fear. When Shu turned around, he saw Inori with her hand reached out. He blushed in embarrassment. He spoke in a slightly fast and high tone.
"Uh... hi. I'm back in one piece, and ever so grateful that I can help people the way I was trained to thanks to you and everyone else."
Shu laughed nervously. Inori took it as gratitude and smiled.
"I'm glad."
Shu stopped acting like a doofus, and smiled back as both of them went back to the train taking them to school.
xxxxxx
Shu and Inori finally made to school. They were late as they both missed second period. After Shu told to the second period teacher about how the trains stopped due to a incident involving the GHQ, she accepted it considering that she knew about the incident as well. Lunchtime came, and all the students were talking about two things. What had happened in Shibuya was first in their minds. They also talked about how Takumi was in another fight, but this time he was caught by the principal. Some of the students saw the principal talking to his father. The decription was clear. Brawny, loud, and overbearing with blond hair. One person instantly came to mind in Shu's thoughts.
'Seriously?! That Bravo guy is here, and acting like he's the father of 'Kill'em all' Daryl?'
Shu racked his brain as to how things from here on in were going to be harder to handle. Inori looked him as if he was in anguish.
xxxxxx
(Shu's apartment)
Haruka spent half her day drinking away her regret as she was disclosed by another person that her son was a inmate at a GHQ prison. She knew who she had to talk to. But for now, all she could do was deal with her guilt. She held her wallet. Inside of it was, among other things, a picture. On the picture was her, Shu when he was seven and a pink-haired girl. She spoke in a sad tone.
"I promised I would keep him safe. Just like you wanted me too. I'm sorry"
A tear fell on the picture.
"I'm so sorry."
xxxxxx
(Sagara's radio room)
DJ Sagara had just finished his afternnon show. He had the rest of the day to himself. While sitting on his chair, he took out a picture out of one of his desk drawers. It was a picture of Sagara when he was 21, and Kurosu Ouma.
"Don't worry, old buddy. He's doing just fine. I'm making sure of it."
And that's the end of this chapter. The Komori Inves will make an appearance in the next chapter. I left it out intentionally as a plot point for the next chapter. As you may or may have not noticed, Daryl's alias name was the same as the protangonist of Kamen Rider 555. Some of you may like it, and some of you may not. It took me a long while, but this chapter is out. The next one will come. But I still have school. So, please have patience. Later.