Sympho-Saber: Song of Swords
RXU:EP19 – Land that Decisive Strike!
Within the halls of Master Logos' castle, there was a room that held no purpose other than to hold a singular object. It was a room that only had a single dresser at the very end of it, two stands holding up the Ankokuken Kurayami on it. The red lines on the sword shined a bright red before the sword itself was enveloped within a purple glow. It lifted itself upwards and away from the dresser as the glow began to spread and take a male humanoid shape, soon bursting away to reveal Kamen Rider Calibur.
Calibur let out a low near shaky breath as he lowered his arms, letting them drop to his sides while keeping grip of Kurayami. He began looking around before staring at Kurayami long and hard, the visor-like indentions in the hilt of the blade shining as his own visor shined as well. He gave a slight jolt but shook it off, quickly hurrying over to the door.
Upon touching the doorknob, an electric burst was released which forced him to reel his hand back. The door shimmered as electrical energy could now be visibly seen coursing through it. He simply raised Kurayami, gripping the Seiken with both hands before slamming it downwards against the door.
"Hibiki…" Miku took a deep breath, soon staring forward intently, "I'm the new Kamen Rider Espada."
"Good," Chris said as she and Touma were standing in front of Miku, the trio in the Workshop at SONG HQ, "Now actually tell Hibiki that."
"I'm not sure I can," Miku admitted as she turned away while sighing.
"Okay, plan B then," Touma clasped his hands together, "We get a picture of Hibiki, print it out, cut out her face and-"
"Like hell that's going to work!" Chris called out in annoyance as she kicked Touma in the shin.
"That was too hard!" Touma yelped as he began to hop around while trying to keep balance, "Too hard!"
"Thank you Chris," Miku sighed as she didn't care much for the idea either, "Just because it's her face doesn't mean it'll make a difference."
"Okay, no on the mask idea," Touma said as the pain faded, slowly putting his leg down as he leaned on a table, "But you were able to tell me. If you just give her your reasoning like you did for me then you'll be fine."
"Touma, it's not that simple," Daishinji said as he was currently working on maintaining Rekka, "Your circumstances were enough for Miku to push herself to do that for you."
"That and it's entirely different telling you and Hibiki the truth," Miku added, "No offense."
"None taken," Touma waved off the remark.
"Is it really that much of a pain to tell the dummy?" Chris asked as she crossed her arms before pacing around, "Either way, its better you tell her soon before something happens like when you found out about her."
"I know that, it's just…" Miku sighed, despite pooling together her determination to save Hibiki, telling her was an entirely different story for some reason, "When it comes to Hibiki, it's… hard."
"Is it? Or are you just making it hard?" Chris asked with a raised brow, "It's not like she can force you to stop if that's what you're worried about."
"No, just…" Miku sighed before shaking her head, "I know it's silly, but when it comes to Hibiki… some things just can't be easily said."
"Perhaps an alternate way to say them might be best," Daishinji remarked, having an idea in mind though he wasn't about to suggest it unless absolutely necessary, "That said, psyching yourself out like this isn't going to help in the long run. Don't plan it out, the minute you feel comfortable around her, let her know and don't stop talking until you've let everything out."
"I think… that could work," Miku said with a nod, thinking on Daishinji's idea and nodding further, "Yeah, I think I'll try just that."
"Just don't wait too long," Touma suggested, "No pressure obviously but…"
"I know, I want to do it on my terms too," Miku replied before turning when she heard the door open.
"Ah there you all are," Genjuro said as he entered, though oddly enough he was in his training gear than his usual casual business attire, "If it's not too much trouble, Touma, Miku, Chris, can you all accompany me? Sophia's gathering most of the other Riders and Wielders."
"What's this all about?" Chris asked.
"Is it a mission?" Touma asked, "Because Daishinji's still working on Rekka."
"Don't worry, it's nothing like that," Genjuro waved it off, "It's nothing too strenuous either if I'm being perfectly honest."
"It's not training is it?" Chris asked in near deadpan.
"I'd say it's more fun than training," Genjuro admitted.
"Is it alright for me to be joining in on this?" Miku asked as she grew nervous, "After all, I haven't exactly told Hibiki…"
"Don't worry," Genjuro reassured as he held up a finger with a confident smirk, "I've got the perfect excuse to keep your secret safe until you're ready."
It didn't take long for Genjuro to gather the remaining Riders and Wielders, though noticeably Ogawa was absent. But aside from him and Daishinji, everyone was gathered at a waterfront that wasn't that occupied at the moment. Of course with everyone out in public, that meant that Tsubasa, Maria and Kanade had to cover up in the usual ways. Despite this, they all waited as a group, wondering when their Commander would speak up.
The Commander himself had kept standing in front of them, arms crossed and eyes closed as his head was lowered. It didn't take long for him to unfold his arms, relaxing his body as he raised his head and opened his eyes.
"So I'm sure you're all wondering why you're here," Genjuro said as he got various curious responses and gestures, "Considering things have been slowing down, and the intensity of our work over this recent Summer, I thought something fun but productive could be done."
"Finally, he speaks," Yuri remarked.
"What exactly do you mean?" Tsubasa asked the question that mostly everyone there was wondering ever since they had been gathered.
"Simply put, we'll be playing a game," Genjuro said much to the surprise of everyone there before he let out a wide smile, "I want one of you to try and hit me."
"Wait, what?" Rintaro asked.
"Sounds simple enough," Kanade said as she instantly rolled with the 'game' being given out.
"I knew it," Chris groaned as she slumped forward at the realization of what this really was, "It is training…"
"Why do we need to hit you again?" Shirabe asked.
"Yeah, dess," Kirika nodded, "What kind of game is that?"
"I'm sure some of you must be aware of Miyamoto Musashi and his master Tsukuhara Bokuden," Genjuro said as he already knew who would answer, "Right?"
"Ah that story," Touma spoke up in realization just like expected, "Musashi tried to get the drop on Bokuden while the latter was eating. But Bokuden had managed to defend himself with the lid of a pot."
"That's the type of game we'll play," Genjuro nodded, "I want you all to try and land one hit on me. And don't think of this as training either. You can do this whenever you're ready with whatever method you need to so long as it doesn't involve your transformations or anything that will deal heavy collateral."
"I feel as though that should be a given," Maria remarked at Genjuro's stipulations, trying to figure out who would be crazy enough to use their Seiken or Gear.
"That sounds simple enough," Hibiki nodded before realizing something, "Wait, Miku gets to participate too?"
"I figured she could join in on the fun since this is a fairly relaxed exercise of sorts," Genjuro answered with a smile, "Don't you agree?"
"Oh," Hibiki said before nodding, "Yeah, sure!"
"I appreciate it sir," Miku smiled and gave a short bow, glad to see that she had an easy alibi this time when it came to the game at hand.
"Now then, you're free to start whenever you want," Genjuro said as he placed his hands behind his back, "Though be warned that no matter the time, my guard-"
"Ah look, UFO!" Kirika shouted as she pointed towards the left, managing to get Hibiki and Touma to look.
"What?" Genjuro's eyes widened in surprise as he turned towards where Kirika was pointing, "Where?!"
A few of the others who hadn't turned could only stare in deadpan, mostly Yuri, Chris, and Shirabe. The three clearly in disbelief that Genjuro had managed to get tricked like that. Some like Rintaro and Maria were ready to warn their Commander against the incoming attack by Kirika, though were unsure if they should.
"Got you," Kirika called out as she leapt from where she was to try and grab at Genjuro only to yelp when he moved out of the way at the last second, "DESS!"
"I figured," Kanade let out a chuckle while Tsubasa and Miku shook their heads.
"My guard won't falter easily when it comes to this game," Genjuro smiled as had continued where he left off before he backed away, "Even if it looks like I've been caught off guard."
"Dang it…" Kirika groaned out as she was now sprawled on the floor.
"Now then, let the game begin!" Genjuro said with a grin before a look of realization came across his face, "Ah yes actually. I forgot to mention but the person who manages to land a hit on me gets a prize. You may ask me for any favor you desire within reason."
The instant he uttered those words, everyone's attention was on him as they were already getting ideas on what they could get from Genjuro. The Commander and Kamen Rider could only give a chuckle as he turned and went to jog, clearly planning on enjoying himself just as the Riders and Wielders were likely to when it came to trying to get the jump on him.
Luna let out a small groan, her eyes finally fluttering open before she let out a gasp and immediately shot up from where she was laying. She let out a few heavy breaths as she tried to get her breathing under control and figure out her bearings. She was in a dimly lit bedroom, it being fairly furnished as if it was a guest bedroom within Master Logos' castle.
"Just what…?" she trailed before realizing what had happened. She was watching the final fight between Carol and SONG before Master Logos suddenly got the drop on her. She let out a small wince as she held her head while getting on the edge of the bed and standing up, still recovering from suddenly being knocked out, "How long have I been out?"
She seemed to be alone so she closed her eyes, hoping to utilize her abilities to leave only to open them and look around. Something had prevented her from easily leaving the area, and it was clear what it was as the walls, floor and ceiling all around her pulsated with a red aura upon her failed escape.
"I see he's using whatever power he has to trap me…" she muttered before her ear twitched slightly.
She quickly hurried over to the door, wincing at it released a shock when she touched the doorknob. She went to carefully touch the door after that, noting that it only lashed out when she tried to open it. Upon discovering this she pressed her ear against the door, having sworn she had heard sudden shouts from what she assumed were the castle residents. She couldn't make it out, but it sounds like they were mobilizing for whatever reason.
Calibur's sudden emergence and destruction of the hidden room he was kept within had caught the attention of several residents of the castle. Those residents were mainly spare swordsmen who were unable to handle the Seiken but were still skilled and had sworn loyalty to Master Logos. All of them wore somewhat baggy maroon pants and coats with a black high collar, wide belt strap and boots. Several of them stumbled across Calibur lurking through the hallways, the group drawing out their swords.
Their swords were similar in fashion to the Swordriver Seiken, though their metal was a dull grey and they were flatter in shape with no elemental emblem at emerging from the hilt. Instead a flat image of the Sword of Logos emblem decorated it, the center flat of the blades being plain black in coloration. The grouping of swordsmen all yelled out as they rapidly approached Calibur whose visor shined bright red in response.
Sabela and Durendal were already transformed as they rushed through the halls. The two had been meeting with Master Logos only for him to be alerted to Calibur's escape. They were not about to take a chance when it came to the Swordsman of Darkness and took off immediately, especially since they weren't even sure of who was utilizing Calibur to begin with.
"Just what's going on?" Sabela asked, "It shouldn't be able to act on its own, and only us and the Master are aware of the secret room."
"Whatever it is, we'll deal with it," Durendal answered as he led the way.
The two quickly entered a more open ballroom area of the castle, ready to move through it only for the door on the other side to suddenly be thrown open. Several swordsmen yelled out as they were thrown through the door and across the floor.
Stepping through the door was Calibur, none the worse for wear. The Rider of Darkness quickly took notice of Sabela and Durendal, not even wasting a moment to charge towards them even if several now unarmed guards were in the way.
"No you don't," Sabela hissed out as she dispersed into smoke, reforming right in front of Calibur and slashing. She managed to force him to raise his blade horizontally, blocking her slash, "Who are you?"
Calibur said nothing as he kept Sabela back, slowly but surely shifting his blade… until he was forced to back away from the female Rider in a hurry. Durendal had quickly gotten between the two, switching Kaiji's trident to a reverse grip as he jabbed with the pole to force Calibur away from his sister, soon twirling it and aiming the trident's tip towards the dark Rider before them.
"I'd answer my sister's question," Durendal said as he entered his own fighting stance, "Who are you? Why did you take the Ankokuken Kurayami?"
Calibur said nothing, simply standing where he was in response.
"He's not answering," Sabela said as she kept her stance up.
"Reika, we move in together and subdue him with our teamwork," Durendal said as he began to inch forward, "Just like we've practiced."
"Understood," Sabela said as she inched forward.
Calibur raised his blade before charging towards the two, the Riders of Master Logos charging towards him as well. Durendal went for a jab, forcing Calibur to block and allowing Sabela an opening. That was until Calibur twisted and forced the caught Kurayami and Durendal into the path of her slash. The result was forcing both blades away from each other.
Durendal let out a light gasp as he quickly flourished his trident while Calibur backed away and held his blade at the ready. Sabela glanced back towards Durendal who gave a simple nod, Sabela quickly rushing towards Calibur with a series of rapid jabs.
Calibur went to defend against the jabs, quickly stepping to the side to avoid a thrust from Durendal, Sabela having converted her body to smoke while the oceanic Rider stabbed through the smoke to reach Calibur faster. He then held his trident firmly with both hands, the smoke reforming on top of it to reveal Sabela who sent a slash towards Calibur. The Rider of Darkness barely managed to block, managing to shove Sabela off of the trident while backpedaling.
"He's skilled," Sabela said as she landed with a slight stumble.
"Indeed," Durendal replied as he entered another stance, aiming his Seiken at a slight downward angle, "No more holding back."
Calibur kept his blade at the ready, slowly but surely inching forward as he felt out his opponents. At least until Durendal split the Jikokuken Kaiji while Sabela ran forward, his body tensing.
[KAIJI MASSHOU!]
In an instant Sabela was in front of him and while he was already in the process of blocking her attack he realized something was off. He just barely turned to see Durendal behind him, the Rider slashing downwards with Kaiji.
[SAI KAIJI!]
'Normally I'd be against such sneak attacks, but considering this game… I shall make use of my environment,' Tsubasa thought, having added a white headband to her outfit as she now had a wooden katana on hand, figuring she'd play to her strengths, 'As well as our intelligence network…'
Tsubasa had contacted Sakuya and Aoi, having recognized the area that they started at was one of Genjuro's favorite spots to start or end off a training session. She then asked for them to find the standard route that he would take, eventually finding her spot of ambush. It was a t-section that wasn't fairly traveled at the time of day were at, Tsubasa peaking around the corner of the dead end in said t-section as she awaited her target.
It wasn't long before Genjuro came into view, jogging at a steady pace and seemingly paying no mind to his surroundings.
'It is a risky maneuver, but if I strike at his side the instant he passes…' she thought as she prepared herself, making sure she backed far enough away to where she couldn't be seen waiting.
"Commander, it is time!"
'Huh? Shindo…?' Tsubasa paused before slowly but surely peaking out of her hiding space.
Soon enough she'd be able to see that Genjuro had stopped his jog and turned to face Rintaro who had his own wooden sword.
"A direct assault huh," Genjuro said, having let out an impressed hum before spreading out his arms, "Then come!"
"Yes sir!" Rintaro called out as he charged forward, he wasn't able to transform but he could put his swordsmanship to the test. He flourished his sword while swinging, going for his usual loose and graceful combat style.
Genjuro surprisingly went to back away and easily dodge against Rintaro's swings. Though as a result he was inching himself closer to Tsubasa's hiding spot.
'Now's my chance… I'm sorry Shindo but…!' Tsubasa quickly dashed out from the corner, now behind Genjuro before letting out a short shout while thrusting with her practice sword.
The result was Genjuro shifting to the side as Rintaro lunged as well, both blades clashing against each other briefly and causing both Rider and Wielder to come to a halt.
"Eh," Rintaro soon gasped in surprised, "Tsubasa?!"
"He knew?!" Tsubasa questioned in shock.
Genjuro let out a shout, stepping between the blades and chopping upwards, managing to force the blades spinning out of their owners hands and into the air. It didn't take long for them to drop as Genjuro caught them with both hands.
"What incredible senses," Tsubasa said with a wince as she shook her hand.
"Indeed," Rintaro agreed as he shook his hand as well.
"Not bad," Genjuro remarked as he held both swords in one hand now before dropping them to the ground. He gave a grin before jogging off, "But you'll need to try a lot harder than that!"
"We'll need to rethink our strategy," Rintaro said as he went to pick up the wooden swords before handing one back to Tsubasa.
"We will," Tsubasa nodded as she took the wooden sword.
Genjuro had slowed down on his jog as he walked through the city, soon looking down briefly as he noticed something off. Well until he looked up to see both Touma and Yuri in his path.
"Oh?" he raised a brow.
"The time has come to stop you, evil villain!" Yuri called out as he was holding his Sword X Man Comic forward, "I have made a truce with Blademan Y in order to defeat you!"
"Eh? This is what we're doing?" Touma looked over in surprise, "Also, Blademan Y?"
"He is Sword X Man's strongest rival, be honored," Yuri said as he drew out the comic Blademan Y, it having an image of a black armored hero with Y styled markings in red. He then handed it to Touma who took it in a rather awkward fashion.
"Oh I see," Genjuro chuckled, "So you two will face me together then."
"Evil villain, if you are truly as strong as you think you are… you won't dodge against my assault," Yuri said, having already enacted his plan as he entered a running stance, "Blademan Y, to me!"
"Uh… sure, I guess…" Touma trailed but didn't move forward in any meaningful manner, not exactly sure what Yuri was trying to attempt here.
"Are you sure about this?" Genjuro asked, though his eyes weren't entirely on Yuri which Touma was able to notice.
"Of course I am," Yuri answered.
"Then come," Genjuro called out as he spread his arms out.
"Wait, Yuri, I don't think this is a good idea!" Touma called out but to no avail.
"Fear not, as the hero I am invincible!" Yuri declared as he ran forward only to suddenly slip and fall backwards, slamming into the ground. He stayed where he was, simply staring up at the sky for a long while, "What?"
"You should watch your surroundings," Genjuro said as he walked over and took hold of a skateboard that had just been discarded and left in the middle of the path. He then went over to the side to place it out of the way.
"That could have worked out better…" Touma trailed before watching as Genjuro walked over, "I'll admit uh… I'm not sure how to approach this at the moment. Do you mind if we grab a bite to eat though? I admittedly wanted to talk a bit about my progress in terms of the scenario writing."
"True, that is rather important…" Genjuro nodded in realization as he knew what Touma was implying despite the vague wording before smiling, "I know a pretty good café nearby actually, mind if we head there?"
"Sounds good," Touma said before realizing he was still holding the Blademan Y comic, hurrying over to Yuri who was still on his back before placing the comic on the Seiken of Light's face, "Here you go."
As Touma went to rejoin Genjuro, the two heading off, Yuri was still unmoving from where he was.
"What?"
"Better luck next time Yuri," Miku said as she walked over, having decided to observe how Yuri and Touma were going to try and land a hit on Genjuro. It was quite the challenge, one she'd want to try and overcome solo as well. It was why she had decided to let Hibiki go for her own attempt, figuring that her friend would have better luck on her own.
"Oh, is that you Hina?"
"Huh?" Miku perked up at her name being called, soon looking over.
[SAI KAIJI!]
Durendal appeared beside Calibur who stumbled forward in the middle of a swing, the trident wielding Rider yelling out and striking the Dark Rider in the side.
[NOROSHI MUCHUU!]
In an instant smoke had spiraled around before reforming into Sabela who was crouched in front of Calibur, stabbing forward and striking the dark Rider in the gut.
Calibur let out a light gasp as his arms fell limp, until they suddenly regained life as he raised his sword and slashed downwards at the surprise Sabela who tried to move away.
[KAIJI MASSHOU!]
Calibur had swung but was now further away from where he was, as if he had been shoved back into a stumble. He looked in front of him to see that Durendal was holding onto Sabela, the siblings Riders further from where he and Sabela were a few seconds ago.
[SAI KAIJI!]
"Brother?" Sabela asked with a gasp of surprise.
"I'm not about to let him hurt you," Durendal said only to hear an audible scoff from Calibur, "Huh?"
[JAOU READ!]
"No way," Sabela quickly pulled away from her brother, watching as Calibur had brought out and scanned Jaou Dragon, "He has Jaou Dragon as well?!"
"We need to end this now!" Durendal called out as he initiated his Seiken's special ability alongside his sister as the wielder of the Ankokuken Kurayami initiated the form change.
[ANKOKUKEN KURAYAMI! JAOU DRAGON!]
Just as Calibur's form change completed, ripples of time and space were unleashed outwards towards his right as Durendal suddenly appeared while jabbing, planning on catching Kurayami in Kaiji's tips. Sabela meanwhile had reformed in a burst of smoke while swinging out, planning on forcing Calibur to utilize his free arm to defend.
That was until Calibur simply spread his arms and unleashed a sudden wave of dark energy and smoke, forcing both Riders backwards before he initiated his buckle's finisher by closing his book.
[JAOU HISSATSU DOKUHA!]
He then activated the Ride Book again before stabbing downwards. From below both Riders, erupting from the dark energy were two large purple dragons. The constructs suddenly bit into the two Riders before pinning them down against the ground, breaking apart into a spherical purple energy field.
[JAOU HISSATSU GEKI!]
The two Riders immediately tried to use their Seiken's elements to escape only to gasp out as the field managed to shock and force them to stay in place. Calibur's visor shined brightly in tandem with the emblem on Kurayami's hilt, the Rider quickly moving past the siblings and out of the room they were in. While finishing them off would have been preferred, that wasn't the reason why he had chosen to stay since he knew he could leave at any time.
Genjuro and Touma had stopped by a café, the two sitting on one of the outside tables as they had just finished up their meal. Though as they ate they conversed on certain topics, more specifically a draft that Touma was working on. Their stay had gone on for so long that they had ended up getting a tray of cream puffs that the café specialized in for dessert.
"I must say you're fairly far along," Genjuro said as he looked over the notepad that Touma had slid over, "Thankfully you shouldn't have to worry about anything yet, you've already given a wide enough scenario and guidelines to last a while."
"True, but I figured I'd share my progress," Touma said before going to pop another cream puff in his mouth. That was until he noticed that there was only one left after that and Genjuro was raising his hand as if to reach for it. This was his chance now…
'Sorry but I'll be taking that!'
'Ah, so you managed to land your hit while also securing the last cream puff, not bad Touma!'
'I try sir, I try.'
The imaginary scenario ran through Touma's mind in an instant as he instantly went to grab at the cream puff. Until Genjuro's hand suddenly slammed down on the plate, knocking the cream puff upwards and tilting the plate up to smack Touma's hand away.
"Ouch!" Touma winced as he reeled his hand back while clasping it tightly.
The cream puff meanwhile fell only to be caught by Genjuro who flicked it into his mouth, chewing on it before swallowing, "Not bad Touma, but not good enough. It'll take more than getting the last cream puff to truly get me."
"I see you two are having fun," Chris said as she passed by on the sidewalk their table was near, a large bag in her hand. She had just purchased something though due to the bag it was hard to tell what it even was, "Old man, think I could borrow you for a bit?"
"What do you need?" Genjuro asked.
"I've got a package that's going to arrive at my apartment soon, but it's pretty heavy," Chris replied, "Think you could help out."
"It would be my pleasure," Genjuro said though he had a small smirk, figuring that Chris would also go for the more strategic approach.
"I'll go ahead then," Chris said as she walked off with a hum, "See you soon."
"Sir…" Touma trailed with a slight wince as he shook his hand a bit, deciding to speak up now that Chris was far enough away, "You're aware that…"
"Oh I am, but that's what makes it more fun," Genjuro replied as he clearly enjoyed the prospect of an ambush, "A home field advantage could make for an interesting attempt."
"Well, I won't keep you waiting then," Touma replied, "I'll foot the bill."
"I appreciate your sportsmanship," Genjuro said with a smile, figuring it was because Touma was unable to one-up him. He handed Touma back the notebook, standing up before excusing himself and taking off.
"Well I think I'm done for the day…" Touma sighed as he slumped on the table, "As fun as a favor sounds, it is not worth the trouble when it comes to a man like him…"
"No luck Touma?"
"Huh?" Touma sat up and glanced back before giving a yelp as he mostly turned, seeing Miku approaching him. Of course it wasn't just her but her and Hibiki's friends as well, Yumi, Kuriyo, and Shiori.
"How long have you been watching?" Touma asked in a rather nervous fashion as he quickly put away the notepad, hoping the details of which he and Genjuro were discussing weren't specifically heard.
"We actually only just got here to see your failed attempt," Miku admitted, "Why?"
"Nothing, no reason," Touma cleared his throat, "I suppose that was rather embarrassing…"
"I thought it was a solid attempt," Yumi admitted, "Trying to get one up on your boss by getting the last dessert… it's like something out of an anime!"
"Huh, very true," Touma said in realization.
"Hina told us what you all were up to after we ran into her," Kuriyo added, figuring that Touma could use the context.
"Ah right, yeah," Touma said before sighing, "That man is something else I swear…"
"And that's not counting you know what, either," Shiori added.
"But that's why we're here!" Yumi said as she slapped her hand on the table while holding her other hand up, balling it into a fist, "To help our dear friend achieve victory against him!"
"Eh?" Touma tilted his head while Shiori and Kuriyo simply sighed.
"They're going to help me brainstorm a way to get one up on the Commander," Miku said with a sigh, deciding to clarify for her friend.
"Oh, mind if I join then?" Touma asked much to everyone's surprise, "I've already decided I'll likely pass on any further attempts. Plus I feel like planning is more my forte anyway."
"Of course, the more the merrier," Yumi replied enthusiastically.
Luna had been listening from her room for a while now. The shouts had grown more scattered and faint, and it wasn't long until she had stopped hearing anything. Well that was until she could hear armored footsteps rapidly approaching. She gripped her chest, feeling an odd sensation building inside as she quickly backed away from the door.
In an instant the barrier around the room began crackle before suddenly dissolving, purple cracks suddenly littering the door before darkness burst out from the cracks. The door was splintered and torn apart as Calibur walked into the room, still in Jaou Dragon.
"Calibur…" Luna trailed before shaking her head, suddenly realizing what the odd sensation was, her eyes widening, "You're…!"
Calibur said nothing as he held a hand out towards Luna who slowly but surely walked towards him, holding her hand out as she took his hand with her own. The dark Rider gripped Luna's hand firmly but gently, pulling her close and holding her before they were both enveloped purple flames, the flames forming a sphere that launched against the wall facing the door.
In an instant the flames had burned and busted a hole through the wall, leading to the outside as it flew off and away from the castle itself.
Durendal and Sabela quickly entered the room, the two stumbling due to stepping on the debris that littered the room. Both of them carefully made their way towards the hole, dismissing their transformations as they realized that Calibur had escaped with Luna.
"This isn't good," Reika admitted.
"I know," Ryoga nodded, "Master Logos won't be pleased."
"Thanks for coming by."
"Well I couldn't just say no to your request."
Chris was at the door to her apartment with Genjuro, a fairly large package right next to the door that Genjuro proceeded to lift up and take inside. Shirabe was inside as well, though she was behind the kitchen counter, simply enjoying an ice pop while watching everything transpire.
"Commander," Shirabe nodded.
"Shirabe," Genjuro nodded back before deciding to ask the obvious question as he finally had a handle on the weight of the box, "What did you even buy if I may ask?"
"Just some stuff that'll help me out," Chris said simply as she let Genjuro pass her before she began to back away.
"Where did you want me to put this?" Genjuro asked as he glanced around, his ear twitching however when he heard the clacking of plastic alongside what seemed to be movement from inside the box.
"Oh you can stay right where you are old man!" Chris called out as she took aim immediately, having a motorized foam ball gun in her arms, "You said anything goes, right?!"
Genjuro quickly turned and held the box forward, blocking against a rapid series of foam balls that began pelting the box. Of course this caused the box to shake even more as Chris hurried towards Genjuro's side.
"DESS!"
In an instant the box opened up to reveal Kirika with a squeaky hammer. She had been hiding in the box the entire time, it large enough and sturdy enough to hold her as she waited patiently once she was told to enter right before Genjuro arrived. She was ready to bring the squeak hammer down on Genjuro when he suddenly tilted the box on its side.
"DESS?!"
"Wait, what?!" Chris yelled out as Genjuro tilting the box with enough force shoved Kirika out of it and sent her crashing on top of her, the two being sprawled across the floor as a result.
"That was a pretty solid attempt," Genjuro said as he dusted off his hands before glancing over at Shirabe, "No attempt?"
"With all due respect sir, I doubt it would work," Shirabe replied.
"Well you'll never know unless you try," Genjuro said before quickly catching a Frisbee that Shirabe had suddenly tossed out towards him as he finished the sentence, "Oh, trying get my guard down I see."
"No I was being honest," Shirabe admitted, "Though I was also trying to mind our surroundings as well."
"Honestly I'm impressed we didn't break anything," Genjuro nodded before heading out while placing the Frisbee on the kitchen counter, "Well if you want to try again I'll still be out for a while longer."
"Understood," Shirabe nodded as she watched him exit the apartment. She then walked over to her friends, "Are you two alright?"
"Dang it… and here I thought we had him…" Chris groaned out as she was helped up alongside Kirika, "Just what kind of reflexes does he have?"
"I don't know but I can't believe I've messed up both attempts," Kirika pouted.
"Dang, you all are livelier today compared to usual," Desast said as he had opened the kitchen window from the outside before leaning in, "The hell is going on?"
"Our boss decided to hold a game where we have to try and land one hit on him," Chris replied, "And so far we haven't been able to land a hit on him."
"Sounds fun," Desast said, "Can I join in?"
"I'm pretty sure that's against the rules," Shirabe replied.
"Well he did say no transformations," Kirika replied as she considered their options, "He never said no to any Megid…"
"He also said nothing that could cause collateral damage," Chris added, deciding to snub the idea almost near immediately. While she didn't mind Desast, even she realized this could go too far too fast, "So no."
"Dang, oh well," Desast replied as he managed to shrug the rejection off rather well, "I guess it wouldn't be fun if he was only dodging and on the defensive all the time anyway…"
As Genjuro made his way fully down the apartment stairs he quickly dodged out of the way from a punch by Hibiki, hopping back.
"Oh," he smirked, "A surprise attack?"
"No, I knew you'd know I was coming," Hibiki admitted as she entered a fighting stance, controlling her breathing as she stared straight ahead, "I'm not as crafty as the others, so I'll simply play to my strengths!"
"Then get over here!" Genjuro called out.
"Of course, here I come!" Hibiki called out as she launched forward as fast as she could, punching at Genjuro who dodged out of the way. She stopped on a dime however, managing to pivot and spin, performing a punch at Genjuro who managed to back away just in time, "Not bad!"
"Of course, you're up against your mentor after all," Genjuro chuckled as he hopped back while crossing his arms, "Of course just because you're my pupil doesn't mean I'll go easy on you."
"I'd be insulted if you did!" Hibiki called out with pride as she rushed towards Genjuro again.
Watching from nearby were Maria and Kanade who had been trying to keep tabs on most of the attempts thus far. Though while they were technically scoping out the competition they were also trying to figure out what they'd try.
"He seems to be having fun," Kanade remarked.
"A bit too much fun I feel," Maria sighed, recalling the already failed attempts that had happened. It was clear that the Commander was toying with them, which made Maria wonder what a serious fight or actual sparring session with the Rider would entail.
"So you've got a plan yet?" Kanade asked.
"Unfortunately no, so I'll probably hang back until I can figure out a solid one," Maria replied, "I'm surprised you haven't tried rushing him down like crazy."
"Eh I'm not too insanely interested even if getting one up on the old man is an entertaining thought," Kanade replied, "Besides the more I thought on it, the more likely that I'd probably just ask for more money like a raise or something."
"Really, that's it?" Maria asked in surprise.
"I'm a simple girl, what can I say?" Kanade smirked before growing a curious expression, "What about you? What would you use the favor for?"
"Honestly, money is the logical choice here," Maria replied, "But I wouldn't use it on myself. I'd more than likely ask for money to be set aside to help Kirika and Shirabe once they graduate from Lydian."
"Oh that's sweet," Kanade said with a smile.
"While I've been learning to give them the space they need, they're still my family," Maria said as she glanced upwards, "So I want to support them however I can."
"Well you've got me rooting for you," Kanade replied before giving a sigh only to let out a light laugh, "Though that doesn't solve our problem on how to get the jump on him…"
"Very true," Maria sighed, trying to figure out a plan.
Master Logos was currently in his main chamber, watching the footage of Calibur tearing through the base. He didn't seem to mind the Rider suddenly awakening and going on a rampage, nor did he seem to mind that Durendal and Sabela were unable to capture him. There was the issue of Luna though considering who he guessed this Calibur was, but…
"Master Logos, we're terribly sorry!" Reika called out as she entered with Ryoga, the two immediately kneeling and bowing their heads, "We were unable to apprehend Calibur and even worse, he took the reincarnation of the priestess you acquired."
"Our deepest apologies," Ryoga said as he kept his head bowed, "If you so wish we can…"
"Enough," Master Logos said in a firm tone as he stood up from where he was sitting, slowly but surely moving towards his Riders, "It was unexpected that Calibur would suddenly appear like this, as is his sudden acquiring of the Priestess that was the guardian of the Great Book. However, it's not as bad as first thought."
"What do you mean?" Reika asked curiously, keeping her head bowed.
"I was able to analyze his fighting style, it is unlike any Calibur before him," Master Logos said, taking note that Calibur was fairly quick in movement as well as acrobatic when shown, "Which is why I likely know who took up this mantle to begin with."
"You do?" Ryoga asked.
"Yes, a certain someone that interacted with the previous Caliburs in the past," Master Logos said, a smile crossing his lips, "It makes sense why he would abscond with the Priestess. And with him in play and active in this manner… our options are still as out in the open as I'd like them to be."
"So there's no need to chase them?" Reika asked.
"None at all," Master Logos shook his head, "At least not immediately. The pieces will fall into place like they usually do, that I'm certain of."
"I see," Ryoga said, not willing to question Master Logos' fluidity, though that did make things a bit easier when it came to failing, "What shall we do?"
"For now we need to make preparations to meet with our partners," Master Logos explained, "The next chapter is about to begin and I feel as though our new Calibur will add an interesting wrinkle to it once we set everything up."
Reika glanced at her brother who did the same, the two not really saying anything before bowing their heads further.
"Yes sir."
As the day grew later, the attempts grew more numerous and that meant attempts overlapping with each other as well. Genjuro was currently running away from Hibiki who was trying to catch up to him, though at the same time Kirika and Shirabe were trying their next attempt. The two had gotten rollerblades and were currently skating forward with a jump rope, the duo planning on wrapping it around the Commander to capture him.
Though there was one slight flaw and that's while Shirabe was used to this method of transport, Kirika wasn't, so she lagged behind slightly. Despite this she tried her best keeping up with her friend, the two letting out a shout as they began to swerve inwards while ready to pass and capture Genjuro…
That was until the Commander of SONG to quickly leap into the air with a "TOH!"
The result was Kirika and Shirabe catching Hibiki, unable to course correct and wrapping the jump rope around her.
"Ah…" Shirabe trailed in surprise.
"S-Sorry about that," Kirika yelped before yelping further as Hibiki didn't seem to pay much mind to the two having captured her.
"Don't think I'm done yet!" Hibiki confidently called out as she rushed forward despite the handicap, dragging Kirika and Shirabe along who were holding onto the jump rope in shock.
"That's the spirit," Genjuro smirked before suddenly looking up quickly hopping out of the way and avoiding a falling Yuri, "Oh, going for the height advantage this time."
"This time I will catch you," Yuri called out as he landed and pointed forward, "For I am-!"
"Yuri you're in the way!"
Yuri glanced back, "Huh?"
CRASH!
Hibiki had crashed into Yuri, both Kirika and Shirabe adding to the crash seconds later and turning the group of four into a crumpled pile.
It didn't take long for both Tsubasa and Rintaro to come out of hiding, the duo rushing forward and utilizing their standard sword styles in unison to overtake Genjuro. The result was the Commander backing away from the assault, managing to avoid the hits as he slipped past once each of them performed a swing with a wide enough opening. He was ready to turn and back away when he quickly stopped on a dime, two fairly long poled brooms now aimed at him.
Both Kanade and Maria had decided to go for a frontal offensive as well, though planned to go with makeshift weapons that had a longer reach. While spears were only an upgrade for them now, they still had their experience.
"Well now," Genjuro smirked as he looked on all sides before glancing up and seeing that Chris had perched herself nearby on a wall, already aiming with her foam ball gun, "Let's see if this will go as well as you think it will."
"Respectfully sir, I do believe you're outmatched," Maria replied, "You can't dodge all of us at once."
"Yeah boss, we've kind of got you cornered," Kanade added with a smirk.
"Yes you do," Genjuro said though he didn't lose his confidence in the slightest, "But you should always be wary of cornered prey…"
"One of us will land a hit," Rintaro said as he steeled himself.
"Indeed, though I'm sure we all have our bets on who will," Tsubasa said, figuring that while everyone was working together, they were all planning on thinking of themselves.
"Then let's see you land that hit," Genjuro said.
With those words the four rushed forward, Tsubasa and Rintaro closing in rather fast and swinging while Kanade and Maria jabbed forward just as quickly. In an instant Genjuro managed to hop over their weapons, all of them clashing as he landed on them briefly before leaping further, forcing everyone to yelp as they let go of their weapons due to the force behind the leap.
"You're open!" Chris called out as she began rapidly firing off dozens of foam balls against Genjuro. Her eyes widened however when she saw the Commander cross his arms before swinging outwards, the force behind the swing deflecting the balls and even managing to get one to strike her hands. She let out a hiss and a yelp as she dropped her weapon.
"Not bad," Genjuro said before perking up and looking over, "Huh?"
What looked to be a young lady was currently making her way towards the war zone. She seemed to have been shopping all day, having boxes upon boxes stacked up alongside bags. Despite the heat she managed to beat it with some sunglasses alongside a sunhat. She obliviously walked towards where Genjuro was, though her path would likely have her pass him.
This normally wouldn't be an issue but Genjuro had a target on his back and the adrenaline from the prior attempts had overridden any common sense for all of his opponents. The result was nearly everyone encircling Genjuro and the lady, Chris having stayed back while the others mostly recovered. There were no weapons or tricks, the eight simply rushed forward.
"Hey, wait a minute!" Genjuro shouted though his words were put on deaf ears as everyone else's shouts and battle cries had drowned him out, and also spooked the lady who began to tremble slightly. Genjuro let out a growl as he quickly punched against the ground, unleashing a shockwave that managed to force everyone off their feet with a yelp.
The lady had also been launched up slightly, the boxes she was holding on flying upwards as the Commander of SONG quickly went to catch them while catching her.
"That was close," Genjuro sighed in relief as he began to look towards the civilian, "Are you alright-"
SMACK!
"Eh?"
The young lady had punched Genjuro right in the stomach, and that was when the Rider of Earth himself realized the boxes were lighter than they should have been.
"Got you," the 'lady' finally spoke in a very familiar voice as she immediately took off her sunhat and sunglasses, revealing herself as Miku.
Everyone had just recovered only to just barely see what had happened, well everyone but Chris who had been far away enough and could only smirk when she realized what was going on. Everyone else however…
"EH?!"
"Miku actually landed a hit?!" Rintaro asked in shock.
"How did that disguise even work?" Maria questioned, "I would have assumed the Commander would have figured it out instantly."
"Because he was too busy having to deal with 9 opponents all at once," Touma spoke up, everyone turning to see him alongside Yumi, Shiori and Kuriyo, the trio of friends cheering and celebrating while Touma himself had his arms crossed with a proud expression.
"Eh?" Hibiki stared in surprise at seeing her friends from school, "What are you all…?"
"We ran into Miku during an earlier attempt she was watching and she explained what was going on," Shiori explained for everyone, "So we decided to help out."
"Yep, us and Kami managed to figure out the best way to get one up on the Commander," Kuriyo nodded.
"That was just like a thrilling spy anime," Yumi called out as she pumped her fists, "The target thinking that he protected a bystander only for them to reveal they're anything but!"
"Not bad," Genjuro chuckled as he set Miku down finally before dropping the boxes to reveal they were all empty, only having wadded paper in them, "To think you caught me off guard."
"We figured that even you could get too into the heat of the moment," Miku admitted, "So we decided to wait until everyone would try their attempts all at once before initiating the plan."
"Clever strategy," Genjuro nodded as he crossed his arms, "Just what I'd expect from you all."
"Guess that means the game is over Dess," Kirika realized.
"Thank goodness," Shirabe admitted as she slumped slightly.
"Yeah, it's finally over," Chris sighed in relief as she hopped down from where she was while walking over, "Now we can stop wasting our time on this."
"Says the person who bought a toy gun specifically to try and get in on the fun," Kanade glanced over with a teasing smirk.
"Hey!" Chris called out with a glare.
"Honestly I think I've had enough fun for today," Maria admitted, glad that it was over since she wasn't sure what she'd do for another attempt.
"I must admit Kohinata, most impressive," Tsubasa said as she walked over to Miku with Rintaro only for them to back up as Hibiki tackled Miku into a hug.
"That was crazy Miku!" Hibiki called out with a smile, "I didn't know you have it in you."
"I suppose I'm just full of surprises," Miku admitted with a sheepish chuckle.
"Do you have any ideas for your request?" Rintaro asked curiously.
"Actually… I didn't think I'd get this far," Miku admitted curiously before giving a light laugh much to mostly everyone's surprise, "I'll have to think on it."
"You're free to take as much time as you need," Genjuro replied, "I'm a man of my word, and a patient one at that."
"Thank you sir," Miku said with a bow.
Touma couldn't help but smile a bit at the scene before him. Despite the secrecy he could already feel Miku becoming more of a part of the team than she had been before. He simply put his hands in his pant pockets and walked over with Yumi, Shiori, and Kuriyo to join the others.
The fireball that Calibur and Luna were had flown for miles. It even managed to enter a fairly dense forest, compacting itself and navigating with surprising ease. Eventually it impacted against an open path, dispersing cleanly and not spreading out as the two stepped onto the path.
"Thank you," Luna said as she pulled away from Calibur, "I never thought we'd be meeting again like this."
Calibur stayed silent, simply walking towards Luna before passing her.
"Wait a minute," Luna said as she turned, "Please, allow me to return the favor."
Calibur continued to walk as if ignoring her, drawing out Kuryami and opening up a dark portal.
"There's someone I know who can help us hide ourselves," Luna replied, "It might be best, especially considering the man who swept both of us away from our friends."
Calibur glanced back before flicking his wrist, the dark portal dispersing as he set Kurayami on his holster. He then walked towards Luna, before stopping near her.
"You won't regret it," Luna said as she closed her eyes, walking over to where she was now side to side with Calibur before clasping his left hand with her own. A sudden gust of wind occurred, leaves blowing as the two vanished into thin air.
To Be Continued…
Author's Note: A bit of a relaxed chapter in a lot of ways this time around, but I figured both the readers and our heroes could use a break like this. Of course it wasn't all fun and games as our 'mysterious' new Calibur is now in play and he's rescued Luna. But aside from that, the main purpose of the chapter was just to give the younger fighters of SONG a fun inconsequential plot to mess around in. Also it was just fun having Genjuro as this brick wall they'd have to attempt to overcome. Despite him not having the strongest equipment, he's not a slouch when it comes down to it so I wanted to portray that as best I could.
That said we've only got two more main chapters left… just what will they entail? Well that's for me to know and for you to eventually find out, so don't worry about it too much. In the meantime, thanks for reading and commenting, it really means a lot, and I'll see you all next time.