Author's Note: First and foremost...A NEW SYMPHOGEAR TRAILER ANNOUNCED! I'M SO HAPPY AND SO EXCITED! We don't have anything concrete yet, as far as I know. I could be wrong and maybe there's more information in Japan but for now, we got something and it's coming. Whether it's a continuation or a reboot, I will love whatever I get.

Second: I want to thank all my readers for keeping up with the story. I never expected the story to receive this kind of support, honestly, since the regular Symphogear fanfic stories are pretty much dead. Nonetheless, thank you all for joining me on this adventure. I love writing every chapter which is the main reason why there are at least 2 chapters per week. I just have so much fun writing it. I know the story is going rather slow, but I want to expand on each character so they become an actual part of the cast instead of just boring ones. And besides, Ryuki had slow episodes from time to time as well and those were fun. And I have a lot planned for this story so I hope you continue to enjoy it and show your support. Maybe in the future, I'll request a commission for a personal story cover but we will see how things go. Without further ado, here's today's chapter! Don't forget to review and leave your favorite and follow!

Reviews:

DCDGojira: Glad to see you again, friend!

TheOkWriter: Yeah, I guess I see your point. I didn't watch many of the older Kamen Riders but I know that power ranger had evil versions at one point. I vividly remember Power Rangers in space had their evil versions, Psycho Rangers, and those came out in the 90s. I agree that now evil versions of characters are more polished and elaborated like Kagerou in Kamen Rider Revice rather than the "grrr I'm evil so I'll kill you" characters back then, I also have to say that some series like Digimon did it well with Blackwargreymon and such. Though I also believe that Ryuga was meant to be introduced in the series along with Verde and Femme but due to either the producers running out of time or budget had to cut him off. Hence why we see only 10 riders out of 13. The thing that gets me is that Ryuga has like 2 different origin stories. One where he's Shinji's mirror version and the other one where he's his brother. Both these weren't hinted at in the original series. I looked back to the series and I agree that Ryuga's concept of being mirror Shinji makes the most sense since we have mirror Yui and all that. We kind of got screwed over at the end and everything felt rushed. Alternative and Imperer died within 3 episodes of their introduction, Tiger died in a car crash(though his death is very poetic), and other things. I guess that's why Ryuki has so many specials. Like 13 Riders and World of If(which features Ryuga and an official Survive Ouja) Or even the most recent Ryuki film where Ryuga bodied the toughest Riders like Gai, Ouja, and Knight himself. Sorry if this message is longer than the others but I had some things to say about Ryuga. I don't hate or dislike him but I wanted to see more. I'm content with what we got.

Chapter 9
A Reason to Fight

"You don't have to do this, ma'am. I'm fine."

"Nonsense. Someone has to change your bandages. You must feel really dirty right now after not showering for a while so I want to make sure my dear boy is comfortable."

"Yes but...couldn't you have worn something?"

Takeru sat on his bed with Fine behind him, removing his old bandages from his body. The boy was infuriated at Fine for making Ouja put him in the state his in, but he was still a teenage boy with his naked mistress behind him. He winced in slight pain when Fine rubbed a towel soaked with alcohol before applying fresh bandages.

"Has Chris visited you? She came back from her mission with Cypher. They didn't get Durandal but we did learn some valuable things about the enemy. In particular, that girl who possesses Gungnir can awaken it with her singing alone."

"What? That little kid?" Takeru voiced his surprise, flinching when Fine removed the bandage over his eye. He slowly opened it, sighing in relief that he could still see from it."It can't be."

"Oh, but it can. She shows more potential than even Chris. Which is why capturing her is of utmost importance."

"But that's why you got Ouja, right?"

"Ouja is more of insurance rather than anything." She caressed his cheek, prompting him to tense up."You 2 are still my go-to options. Believe it or not, I do love you. You are like my very own children."

"Then why do you...why do you hurt Chris so much?" He attempted to move away from her but couldn't."Why did you let Ouja beat me up so much?"

"Silly boy. There is still much you don't know about life." Fine retracted her hand."Sometimes you have to hurt those you love for their good. I'm sure that will come a time when you'll have to hurt Chris just to protect her."

"I could never." Takeru denied."I would never hurt her."

"Ah, but that's where you're wrong. You have hurt her before. Maybe not indirectly. But the Breaker Alliance caused countless deaths back in Val Verde and around the world. Chris' parents included. And the head of the operation was none other than your foster father, Raphael Salazar."

"No. I had nothing to do with that. I was just-"

"A simple-minded child that couldn't do anything?" Fine began bandaging his torso, her voice cold as ice on his neck."Do you think that's an excuse? You still pulled the trigger on several occasions. You ended families because you wanted your father to accept you. You wanted to be loved, to be yearned for, and to be needed. That's why you got so stuck to Chris. You both had nothing but each other's company. You must be glad that her parents died and left her all alone. Because you got to meet her."

"No! I didn't want Chrissy to be without her family!" Takeru screamed, Fine tightening the bandages and causing him to hiss in pain."I...I never wanted those kids to be treated like slaves! I just wanted them to be happy! I wanted them to be my friends!"

"Is that what you tell yourself to make yourself less responsible?" Fine forged on, a twisted smile on her face."You can lie to yourself all you want, Takeru. But this is the life you wanted. The life I gave you. You even killed your whole crew because you thought you could free Chris from that. You felt guilty."

"You kidnapped us!"

"I saved you." She corrected him sternly."Do you honestly believe that they would have let you live a happy life with Chris once you got to Japan? You are pretty much recognized as a war criminal, a terrorist, wanted in several nations. Dead or alive. You were going to either be thrown in a prison or be executed for your war crimes. But because of me, you got to be with Chris. You can question my methods all you want, but the results speak for themselves. You had fun. But now ask yourself: Is Chris suffering worth your happiness?"

"W-what?"

Fine grabbed his chin, forcing him to stare at her eyes."Chris only suffers because she's connected to you. Because you became too needy of her. Like a parasite leeching off its host. Because you thought you could fill the hole her parents left behind. But you do all of that because you're afraid of being alone. Afraid of her rejecting you and tossing you aside. As does she, because other than me, you have no one else left in this rotten world."

"I make...Chrissy suffer?" Takeru repeated, his breathing erratic."Do I not...love her?"

"No. You do. It's like I told you. Sometimes you make the people you love suffer. Whether it's for their good or your own, that's up to you."

Fine finished patching him up, eyeing her handiwork."You look better than before. You should be back on your feet in a couple of weeks maybe. You'll have plenty of time to think about what I told you. And remember...only I can understand your pain."

The sound of the door opening caused them to stare at the newcomer. It was Chris, wearing her pajamas which consisted of short amethyst-colored shorts, a purple shirt, and white socks."I came to bring Takeru his dinner."

"He's been patiently waiting." Fine stood up and walked past Chris."I'm retiring for the night. I have some business to take care of."

With Fine gone, the teens were left by their own devices, unsure of what to say to one another.

"So...soup again?" Takeru asked, trying to break the ice.

"Yeah. Sorry. I'm not much of a cook." Chris said, walking over to the stool next to his bed and taking a seat."This is the only thing I can whip up without issue."

"No, no. It's fine." Takeru shook his head."Trust me, your soup is way better than what I had to eat sometimes in the barracks."

"You think you can finally eat by yourself?" Chris quipped, already stirring up the bowl of soup with a spoon."Or am I going to have to keep feeding you?"

"I should be fine." Takeru gave her a small smile.

The lavender-haired girl scoffed, setting the bowl on his night table."Well, I'm heading to bed. It's been a long day."

"Wait...you don't have to leave." Takeru slowly said."We could...talk?"

"About?" Chris rose a brow.

"I don't know. How was your day?"

"How was my day? Well, other than the mission. Not much. Just been hanging out in my room."

"Come on, you can be a little more descriptive than that." Takeru insisted."How was your mission? Like, I know that it didn't go well but I want to hear it from you. You look like you're a bit frustrated. I'm all ears and ready to hear you vent."

"You want me to...vent at you?" Chris looked puzzled at his request."But why...?"

"You're my friend." Takeru offered a bright smile despite Fine's words echoing in his mind."I want to make you feel better like you make me feel better."

"Well...okay. But don't complain if you don't like the story, okay?"

Chris proceeded to tell Takeru about what had happened during their fight with the other Riders and how the Gungnir wielder and Ryuki had become stronger.

"So she awoke Durandal. Fine said that but I still find it hard to believe." Takeru crossed his arm over his sling.

"Yeah. And she kept intercepting me at every turn." Chris grumbled aloud."So damn annoying. Which reminds me. What did you tell them? Because they kept going on about how I needed 'saving'."

"Oh. Well..." Takeru scratched his cheek nervously."I might have told them that I had a friend I wanted to protect."

"You colossal moron! Why are you going around telling that to the enemy!" Chris pulled on his cheek, earning repetitive yelps of pain."They don't need to know about us!"

"It happened in the heat of the moment, okay?! I thought I sounded cool!"

"God, you're such a corny dork sometimes."

"Sometimes?" Takeru rubbed his cheek."At least it's not all the time now, eh?"

"Whatever." Chris turned away, hiding a small smile gracing her features."It's too bad you weren't there. Fighting without you feels weird. Like I don't have anyone watching my back. Ouja was off doing his own thing. And frankly, I don't trust him."

"But...don't worry. I'm almost healed. Just need a few more weeks." Takeru flexed his good arm."Once I'm back in the action, we'll kick their sorry asses together!"

"Right. They won't see what's coming." Chris flexed her left arm, patting her bicep."We won't lose to shitstains like them. We're the strongest duo there is."

"I think you mean trio."

The couple gasped at the new voice in the room. Somehow, Cypher had entered without being detected or making any sort of noise and was leaning against the door frame, twirling his cane. His vendetta mask obscured his real face.

Takeru grabbed Chris' arm, pulling her closer despite his injuries. He knew Chris was more than capable of defending herself. And yet, seeing as the state Ouja put him in, he knew he was not one to be underestimated."What do you want, Ouja?"

"Come on, call me by my name. Code." Cypher hummed, a cruel smirk under his mask."I can do the same for you, Takeru. And you too, Chris."

"Don't address us so casually you psychopath!" Chris bellowed."We're not your friends."

"Okay then, Yukine. Sakamoto." Cypher decided to indulge her request."We're pretty much a team. Officially, anyway. So I figured we might as well try to get along."

"Kind of hard to do that with the guy that made me bedridden, don't you think?" Takeru rhetorically asked.

"You're still holding that against me?" The assassin scoffed in indignation."Are people really this petty? Much like you, I was just following orders. You should be grateful I went a little easy on you. She wanted me to be thorough. Could have been a lot worse, believe me. At least you're not missing a limp."

"You're full of shit." Chris snarled."You seemed to be enjoying yourself for someone who was just "following orders". We don't need your stupid help. We can do this ourselves."

"Are you sure? Because the enemy has the advantage of numbers over you 2." Cypher put the information on the table."2 Symphogears and 3 Kamen Riders. And they're continuously improving. Yukine found herself being pushed back by the Gungnir girl. Maybe next time she'll straight up beat her. My point is, having me on the team will benefit you immensely. I'm far superior to whatever they can throw at us. But you can choose to go at it alone. My mission is completely independent of you. But do keep in mind that if you lose you'll most likely be locked away and tortured for information. The government types aren't above that. I should know."

"You are pretty much recognized as a war criminal, wanted in several nations. Dead or alive. You were going to either be thrown in a prison or be executed for your war crimes."

Takeru thought back to Fine's words. For all intents and purposes, Chris was still a missing girl. Meaning that she could probably act as such. But if she were caught, all those chances of getting out of this would be gone.

"You can shove your offer straight up your ass." Chris left no room for argument."I know what you're planning. You want to earn our trust so you can backstab us in the back and kill Takeru. You're after the wish too."

"If I wanted that, I could have just killed him right here and now. Or while he was sleeping." Cypher reasoned, chuckling at their combined glares.."I'm an honorable person, believe it or not. Once I get a contract I like to follow it. Fine said to leave you for last and I plan to honor that. But really, I'm not that into the wish. I just want to see the strongest resolve created by the strongest emotion."

"You keep saying that but what does that mean?"

"Think about our fight earlier today. Gungnir was able to unleash Durandal's power with her rage after I hurt her friends. Before that, Ryuki was able to surprise me a bit when I threatened to kill his little girlfriend. People have all sorts of reactions based on different circumstances. No one is the same. But I want to see how far those emotions can take them. You 2 are connected by a deep bond of love but you have yet to impress me. Perhaps that will change. But overall, the wish isn't my main concern. You have my word."

"The word of an assassin isn't much." Takeru sneered, gritting his teeth.

"Is that so? Well, I was hoping you and I would understand each other. Considering we're so much alike."

"Takeru is nothing like you!" Chris snapped but Takeru held her back from lunging at him."He's not a mindless murderer!"

"He's still a murderer. Both of us get paid to kill. He fights in wars, I fight independently. We both have taken lives and ruined families for the sake of a mission. Just because I don't feel remorse doesn't mean he's suddenly free of guilt. I guess that's what sets us apart. You felt every death, didn't you? It tore you apart. I envy you. I wish I could have felt something. But no matter how much I force myself to do it, I just can't. Maybe you can teach me all about it?"

"Get out." Chris pointed at the door."Get out right now and don't come back. We can work together but we don't fucking trust you. That's for damn sure. Now get the hell out of here and leave us alone!"

Cypher smiled under his mask, waving them off before exiting the room.

"That asshole...Why the fuck did Fine think hiring an uncontrollable person like him would be a good idea? He has no allegiance no anyone."

"Chris...maybe he's right." Takeru let go of her arm."Maybe we do need his help."

"What? You can't be serious." Chris looked at him as if he had grown a second head."He nearly beat you to death. What, did he hit you in the head too hard that you're spouting bullshit too?"

"But he's right. We're outnumbered. I was beginning to have trouble the last time I fought those Riders and if they get more allies, things would get even harder. Not to mention I'm out of commission right now. If he wasn't here, you'd have to fight all of them alone. We need his power."

Chris shook her head, baring her teeth."You're kidding. No way you're being for real right now. You think trusting an assassin that only cares about his twisted desires is trustworthy?"

"I'm not saying he is. I'm just saying we have no choice." Takeru trailed off."Just to cooperate..."

"That's the same thing!" Chris screamed, grabbing him by the collar of his shirt."We don't need his help. We're fine the way we are!"

"And what if we're not enough?!" Takeru grabbed her shoulder, raising his voice."What if we lose? What if we get locked away? Separated? We can't risk that! If we go down now, the flames of war will never be extinguished. The world will continue to be at war. Nothing will change. And...I'll lose you..."

"I'm not yours to lose." Chris harshly swatted his good hand away."Listen...we don't...I told you that a happy ending is probably not waiting for us on the other side of the road. Maybe it's best if we just do what we have to do."

"If you cut that bond, you won't have to suffer when I have to kill him." Chris trembled after recalling Ouja's words to her.

Takeru noticed her shaking, and tried to comfort her, but she backed away, shaking her head."Chrissy...?"

"I'm sorry...Look at you. You're all beat up because of me. And even then, you're still thinking of me. You've always been that way. But one day you'll be hurt even worse for trying to protect me. I don't want that..." Chris shook her head, tears threatening to fall from her face."I have to go."

"Chris!" Takeru cried out after her but to no avail. Once again, Takeru found himself alone in his room. Unable to do anything else, the boy buried his head into the pillow and scream in anger.

"So there is a mastermind behind that girl and Zolda." Genjuro surmised after Yosuke briefed him."And Ouja too. That's another enemy to deal with. It was good you jumped when you did. A second later, and Goro..."

"Right. That's another Rider on their team. I...wasn't expecting for Riders to start teaming up." Yosuke rubbed the edge of his nose."I thought we were the only exception since we want to erase all the Noise. But what could have sparked for them to work together?"

"Whatever it is, it might be a shaky alliance." Genjuro said."Hajime-kun told me that Zolda was presumably out of commission because of Ouja. I think that while they're working together, they aren't necessarily allies."

"Speaking of that, Commander, I have the report you requested." Aoi earned their attention, typing a few things on the console which made an image of a purple snake logo appear."Code Cypher. He's a notorious hitman on the deep web."

"Deep web?" Yosuke asked for clarification.

"Also known as the dark web. The obscure part of the internet in which most illegal activities take place." Aoi explained in simpler terms."These range from drug deals, hired gunmen, and human trafficking, among other things. Users there meet unanimously and can't be tracked down easily. Code Cypher is more than likely a fake name which would be in character for assassins since they tend to use certain names for an active user and has an impressive amount of reviews on his page."

"So all these criminals..." Yosuke frowned upon seeing the many disgusting pages one could find on the deep web flashed before his eyes."They do all this stuff and get away with it?"

"I'm afraid so." Genjuro voiced his displeasure."A lot of sick people out there in the world. And Cypher seems to be one of the many who provide such services. So whoever their leader is must be quite wealthy, judging from the prices."

"But this doesn't tell us much either." Aoi continued analyzing the data."No age, no name, no location. We can't even track down the bank he uses. He's the very definition of a ghost. And if he's a Kamen Rider..."

"No wonder he easily dispatched Adachi, Tachibana, and Goro." Yosuke concluded."This is getting out of hand. Zolda is one thing but Ouja? And we also have Gai and that vigilante guy running around."

"Hey, don't worry." Genjuro placed a firm hand on his shoulder."I'm sure there are good Kamen Riders out there. Look at Hajime-kun for instance. Zolda can be convinced I'm sure. And if we can get that vigilante, maybe we can get his side of things too. Things aren't looking the worse just yet."

"I know, it's just...if only we had a way of defeating Odin this whole thing wouldn't be happening. It's too bad we can't use Durandal for that. Though I don't think it would be enough to stop him."

"Don't worry too much about it now. You'll stress yourself out." Genjuro ruffled his hair as he stood up."You're doing a good job. Keep up the good work. And make sure to visit Tsubasa soon. She's been asking for you."

"Yeah...I've had my mind on some things so I wasn't able to visit her sooner. I'll go tomorrow." Yosuke smiled when the red-haired gave him a thumbs up."By the way...should I bring her flowers or chocolates?"

The next day, Hibiki made her way over to the city's outskirts near the beach to meet up with Genjuro for training. After the first gruesome week, she had grown accustomed to the routine and made it second nature. Thankfully, Miku would cover for her when she could, but eventually, she knew she would have to switch up her training schedule to after school.

"Hibiki-kun. Glad you made it." Genjuro greeted her when he noticed her."Ready for some training?"

"Yes, master!" Hibiki nodded with vigor."I'm ready for training!"

"Good. But today will be a little different. We have a guest. Maybe even a future training partner."

Hibiki followed his gaze, curious to see who he meant."That's..."

"Yo." Hajime rubbed the back of his neck, his eyes darting to the side."Morning."

"Hajime-kun! You came to train too?!" Hibiki's smile widened, her eyes gleaming with glee."But wait, are you sure you should be moving a lot?"

"After the beating that asshole snake gave me, I figured I have to step up my game." Hajime walked over to them, hands on his hips."I nearly died and couldn't do anything to protect Goro or you. I can't let that happen again. So I want to get stronger and fast. I don't want to lose another fight. I've been on a losing streak since I got involved in this."

"Hajime-kun..." Hibiki gently grabbed his arm."You did what you could. We all did..."

She then noticed how they looked and quickly retracted it, much to their chagrin.

"Well, if you want to get stronger, you came to the right place." Genjuro crossed his arms."Unlike Hibiki-kun, you have some experience fighting and know your way around in a fight. But for now, I want to see where you 2 stand. How about a quick match?"

"Huh? You want me to fight her?"

"A spar." Genjuro elaborated."To see where your abilities are and how you can improve. Of course, you'll be using your powers. And don't worry, no one is around these parts this early in the morning."

"Uh...okay." Hibiki nodded, albeit unsure.

"I...I don't really want to fight my friend, though." Hajime frowned as he did not want to harm Hibiki in any way.

"You won't be fighting per se, just a friendly spar. Nothing too serious. Besides, your resistance and resilience it's increased when you're transformed. You'll be fine."

"I think it should be okay, Hajime-kun." Hibiki reassured him with a gentle smile."It should be a good experience for when we have to fight that girl and those Riders again."

"Okay then." The boy ultimately decided to accept. Taking out his Deck, his V Buckle manifested around his waist"I guess this is what I have to do to join the gang, huh? You ready, Hibiki-san?"

"Right!"

"Henshin!"

"Balwysyall Nescell Gungnir Tron..."

(Gekiso Gungnir)

Hajime rose his hands, circling Hibiki while the cream-haired girl simply followed him with her gaze as she sang. Ryuki dashed towards her at full speed, winding his fist back. To his shock, Hibiki grabbed it before he could collide with her stomach, holding him in place. He threw a second punch, but the girl easily grabbed it. She kneed him in the chest, launching him in the air.

'She's fucking strong!' Ryuki was freaking out in his head. Hibiki wasted no time and jumped after him, winding her fist back for an attack.

Ryuki reached for his deck, drew a card, and opened up his visor, activating it.

Guard Vent: Dragshield
DEF: 2000

Two shields appeared in his arms, and he used them to block the barrage of punches that Hibiki continued to deliver. Ryuki used her momentum to lean back in the air, grabbing her arm with his legs and throwing her down to the ground.

Hibiki spun for a second before landing on her feet, taking a battle stance.

'Hibiki-kun's improved tremendously in these past few weeks. She's a whole different person than when she first started.' Genjuro observed the fight with pride.'As for Hajime-kun, his instincts are good, but I would imagine he's taken aback by her improvement. But he should be able to start adapting soon.'

Ryuki drew another card and used it, calling forth his sword.

Sword Vent: Dragsaber
ATK; 2000

However, Ryuki threw his sword at Hibiki, catching her off guard with his sudden action. The girl used her gauntlets to block the blade, giving Ryuki enough opportunity to land a double kick against her arms, knocking her back.

The girl skidded to a halt, shaking her head and regaining her barring. She swiftly ducked her head to avoid another kick by Ryuki and aimed a punch at his torso. But this time, Ryuki blocked with his knee, stopping the attack. Hibiki punched his arm, knocking the sword out of it and disarming him.

The two engage in a fistfight, blocking each other blows as they threw them. Hibiki countered each attack and while she landed a few, Ryuki was slowly starting to adapt to her fierce blows, growing accustomed to them and countering appropriately.

Realizing she had to get more creative, Hibiki began imitating various moves she had seen in the many movies Genjure made her watch. She stopped a few inches away from Ryuki's chest, puzzling him before delivering a powerful punch that knocked the air out of him. The young man was launched over the railing, landing on the sand.

"Hey! Where are you guys going?" Genjuro sighed when he saw them playing around in the sand. Hibiki leaped in the air, going for a kick but Ryuki grabbed her leg, spinning her around before tossing her into the water.

"Hajime-kun!" Hibiki gasped as she landed on her rear, splashing water on herself."I'm all wet now!"

"You looked like you needed to cool down a bit." He snickered as he approached her. Hibiki splashed water aimed at his face, but his helmet kept him protected."Really?'

Hibiki tackled him to the water without another word before the war began. They both giggled as they continuously splashed water onto each other and had tons of fun.

"Well...I guess they are still young." Genjuro couldn't help but smile at the scene."Hey, you two! If you're done flirting, we have to start our warm-up jog!"

"Flirting?!" Hibiki froze, leaving herself open for a splash of water to the face."We're not flirting! R-right, Hajime-kun?!"

"Huh? Oh, right." Ryuki coughed in his hand, flustered."That was fun though. But wait! What do you mean we have to go running?! What about the fight?"

"I got what I need from it. Hajime, your fighting prowess is good but you leave yourself open a lot of times because you have no follow-up. Also, you're very rigid in fights. You need to watch more action movies. You fight like a high school delinquent."

"I am in highschool." Ryuki scoffed."And I'm not a delinquent. Don't listen to batsy."

"But Haz-san also said you-"

"I didn't even know that guy until recently!"

"But you're not that bad, Hajime-kun." Hibiki tried to comfort him, but she could tell he was pouting under the helmet."You're really nice. To me at least. And Miku."

"He's a handful but he's getting there." Genjuro added his piece."Anyway, take five, and don't worry about drying up. When you return to normal, your clothes go back to the way they were."

"Oh, that's cool," Ryuki said, undoing his transformation and in fact, his clothes were now dried. Except his shoes since he was still in the water."I...should have waited before doing that."

"Thanks for the heads up." Hibiki safely got out of the water before undoing her transformation and returning to her workout clothes. She proceeded to begin stretching to warm up her muscles before their jog.

"Guess you became a pro, huh? Look at you go." Hajime whistled at how fluid her movements were."I definitely need to watch those movies."

"Oh, no. Miku is the one who taught me how to warm up before running. She used to be the star track team's ace." Hibiki explained, a smile forming on her face when thinking of her friend."She doesn't run anymore but she's still pretty fast. We race each other every now and then."

"Sounds like you got your work cut out for you then." Hajime smirked, imitating her stretching poses though he was less flexible."I bet she supports the idea of you training like this."

"Well, she is happy to see me be more proactive. But it still feels wrong to lie to her about the reason, you know?"

"I get ya. I don't like lying to my sis or my grandma. But like the Commander said, we have to in order to not get them involved. It's bad enough we're in this shit knees deep already."

"True. But we got each other's backs, right?" Hibiki glanced in his direction."It was scary fighting against Ouja. With that girl, I felt like there was still a way to reach her heart and talk her down. But him? Goro nearly died."

"Not all Riders are good. That's what Yagami told me before. I guess the 3 of us are the only exception right now. But yeah...we could have died at any moment. I wasn't able to do anything. I said I was going to be another member like Akira was, but so far I can't even make up the difference. It feels like I'm still so inexperienced."

"I understand how you feel. I can't even manifest my Armed Gear. I sure hope this training helps us get stronger so we won't be helpless again. I don't want anyone to get hurt..."

"Hey, no negative thoughts." Hajime chopped her gently on the head."We got this. As long as there's a will, there's a way. That's what my grandma says all the time. We Adachis live by that motto. I made a promise to protect my sister, my grandma, and yo-" Hajime clamped up before he could say something he would regret. Coughing in his hand, he cleared his voice."And our friends. Doesn't matter how we gotta fight. Next time? We'll be the ones doing the ass-kicking."

"You're right!" Hibiki yelled, her enthusiasm returning and energizing her."What are we waiting for?! Let's start!"

"Hey, wait up!" Hajime ran after her, struggling to catch up.

"That's the spirit, you guys." Genjuro praised his pupils, jogging next to them."We'll increase your stamina and your endurance Hajime-kun since you're a brawler. You can't be running out of steam in a fight."

"Got it!" Hajime gritted his teeth, forcing his legs to run as fast as they could to catch up to Hibiki, but before they could run side by side, the girl kicked it into high gear and accelerated."That's not fair! You've been doing this longer than I have!"

"Catch me if you can!"

"What am I going to do with the two of you..." Genjuro sweatdropped at their antics. This was going to be an interesting journey in their training.

Meanwhile, on the other side of the city, in a small apartment on the 10th floor, the morning routine of a son and his father ensued.

"Alright, dad. I made some waffles today. With some blueberry on top and a little bit of butter." Goro entered his father's room, pushing a small cart."Oh! And of course, we can't forget about a tiny bit of cinnamon to sweeten the deal. Also, your cafe con Leche. I got the ingredients from that Hispanic shop you told me about the other day. Their coffee is really good. Better than what I usually buy in the vending machines, anyway."

"Goro, my son. You don't have to make every meal feel so grandiose." Goro's father, Jo Tanaka, was sitting up on his bed, the sunlight hitting his face ever so slightly due to the blinds."I'm okay with oatmeal. You'll be late for school."

"It's fine, dad. I wake up early anyway so I prefer to use my time on something other than sleeping." Goro dismissed his father's words."Besides, you must be bored of eating oatmeal every day when Kowaru-san gets here. Should I tell her to try and change things up for you?"

"That poor lady has enough on her plate as is." Jo gave his son a stern look."I'm happy with what I got. You should be focusing more on yourself, Goro. You're in your teenage years. The golden years. Enjoy them while you can. You already do enough by protecting the world from the Noise."

"I barely do a thing, dad. It's my senpais the ones who put in all the work." Goro chuckled, handing his dad a plate of food."I'm just good for support, is all."

"Trust me, son. A support role is as important as any. It's crucial for any team. You might think it's less meaningful but every big machine has small ones working on the clock."

"Maybe so, dad." Goro gave him a ghost of a smile.

His dad grabbed his hand, squeezing it."Goro...have you ever thought of stopping this Kamen Rider business?"

"Huh? Stop? But what makes you say that?" Goro asked, taken back by such a request.

"You're putting your life in danger every day for me. As your father, I can't have that. You've done all you can for me. For your mom, God rest her soul. But...she wouldn't want to see you in danger. Your life is way more precious than ours."

"But dad..."

"I know you hide it, but you sometimes come covered in bruises. Just...I know you agreed to keep fighting for humanity but...ah, screw the government. I'm still your legal guardian. If I can get in touch with-"

"No, dad." Goro grabbed his dad's hand, squeezing back."I want to do this. Not just for you, but for my friends too. For the world. So people don't die. So they can get to go home and get at their kitchen tables and enjoy a hot meal with their families. That day...I watched two friends die. Along with a lot of innocent people and I couldn't do anything. Even now, I'm still a pushover. But I know that one day I will make a difference. That my hard work will pay off and that my contribution will mean something."

Jo listened to his son pour his heart out, fresh tears decorating his cheeks."I want to at least do something to make a difference. Save someone. Do my job as a Kamen Rider. And one day end this whole thing. Look back at it like a bad nightmare and just laugh it off with my friends. One day...this will all be over. I believe in that."

Goro placed his Scissors deck on the bed."But for now, I have to keep on fighting. Doesn't matter how scared I am. It doesn't matter how much I want to run away. When I think of all those people who couldn't even say goodbye to their loved ones...when I think of my senpais fighting relentlessly for a better world. And when I think of my juniors doing their best to fit a much bigger role, it gives me the strength I need."

"Juniors...so that means-"

"I'm finally a senpai, dad." Goro said between tears."It's so silly and dumb but it fills me with happiness. And I want them to look up to me like I look up to Tsubasa-senpai and Yosuke-senpai."

"My boy..." His dad set his breakfast on the side and pulled his son for a hug."You've grown so much. Just like you're mother, you persevere despite anything the world throws at you. Just...come back home safely, okay? A parent can't bury their children, after all."

"No worries, daddy..." Goro gentled and rubbed his dad's back as they both cried in each other's arms."I'll come back. Always."

Yosuke checked his watch for what seemed the fifth time that morning. He had an hour to spare before school started. But right now his friend was of utmost importance. The stares of all the girls in Lydian Academy did not matter nor did the many whispers that no doubt would spark rumors. Right now, he carried a bouquet in one hand and a box of chocolates in another. The kind nurse, who knew him well enough as he had been in that hospital wing numerous times since Tsubasa was taken in, led him in without issues. And now, he stood in front of her room.

Deciding that standing around wouldn't do him any favors, the purple-haired boy knocked on the door.

"Yosuke?"

Yosuke practically jumped at the familiar voice next to him. Tsubasa, still wearing her hospital gown, stood in the hallway."What are you doing here so early?"

"Is that really the type of greeting I get after you idiotically almost died?" Yosuke gave her a scornful glare."Nearly gave me a heart attack, you know?"

"I'm...sorry..." Tsubasa looked dejected, almost ashamed.

"Well, no use crying over spilled milk." Yosuke marched up to her, noticing just how short she was without her heels."These are for the sleeping beauty. I know hospital food isn't that good so...I got you some chocolate. And flowers. Ryoko-san's courtesy. She sends her regards."

"Oh." Tsubasa shyly grabbed the bouquet of orchids."These are lovely. The chocolate is very much appreciated. I've been dying for something sweet other than that stale pudding."

"Why don't we go in and settle down for a bit? I got time for a chat." Yosuke made his way to the door and turned the knob.

"Wait, don't!"

And immediately, he closed it."Okay. I did not need to see that. You're just as messy as ever, aren't you? Why the heck is your bra just laying on the floor? Holy shit. Tsubasa what do you do in your room?!"

"You did not need to see that!" Tsubasa was beyond flustered, poking Yosuke in his chest."Ever heard of knocking?! A girl needs her privacy!"

The young man was stunned by her words, processing what he just witnessed. A smile. Then a chuckle. Then full-on laughter.

"It's not funny, Yosuke." Tsubasa huffed, cheeks flushed."Ogawa-san usually helps me with that."

"What, a dude needs to clean up your room, Ms. Perfectionist?" Yosuke said, holding his stomach as he continued laughing."That was so cute just now. Haven't heard you lose your cold composure in a long time."

"I...well..." Tsubasa was at a loss for words, stammering.

"Just teasing you."

"You're acting like Kanade..." Tsubasa joined in on the laughter."But...thanks. I feel a lot better thanks to you. I guess I needed to let loose for a bit."

"Don't we all." Yosuke leaned against the wall."I was going to bring Tachibana and Ryu-kid. But they're training with the Commander."

"I heard. I read the whole report yesterday night." Tsubasa nodded, her expression turning serious."I'm caught up with everything. About the vigilante Rider, Zolda, the Nehushtan Armor user, and this assassin, Ouja. You narrowly secured Durandal and saved them."

"It's been tough. This whole thing seems to keep getting worse and worse." He sighed wearily."I'm basically in charge of the kids. Goro helps but..."

"He does what he can. We can't ask him for more." Tsubasa finished the thought.

"Of course. But...at least one of us is having some time off."

"You call this time off? I nearly died."

"I...well..." Yosuke took a step back, realizing just how insensitive he sounded."I'm sorry..."

"Just teasing you." Tsubasa punched his arm with a small grin."We're even."

"You're an ass..." Yosuke scoffed, not amused.

"You sounded like Adachi just now. Seems he's rubbing off on you." Tsubasa continued teasing him but took it with humor.

"By the way...I think I understand the kids a little better now." Yosuke closed his eyes, a fond smile gracing his features."They both suffered as much as we have. And yet they are both fighting for what they have left. Similar to us. I'm sure you'll see it next time you see them. They're different."

"I'll take your word for it. Though, I was a bit hard on them. That much I will admit. I spoke to Kanade...did I...die?"

"No? I would have heard if you were declared dead or something." He gave her a puzzled glance."Though...maybe it was Kanade reaching out to you. What did she say?"

"She said...that it's up to me to find out my value and meaning in life." She rehearsed the exact words Kanade had told her while she was in a coma."She made it sound so easy. But I haven't the slightest clue about what to do."

"Those things take time. Even I don't know what I want to do with my life other than fighting." Yosuke offered his sympathy."We'll have time to figure that out. By the end of this...all this fighting. I'm sure we'll be able to come to a conclusion. But for now? I guess what I have to do is protect them. To make sure they don't lose anyone else. As their leader, I must make sure they don't die on duty. Like how Kanade and Akira did for us."

"Then it's my duty as well as the second eldest." Tsubasa solemnly stated."That's a heavy burden to bear. One that I'm more than willing to share with you."

"You know...normally I'd deny the idea since you've been through enough. But I'm tired." Yosuke's smile morphed into a toothy grin."I'll take what I can get. It won't be easy but we'll manage."

"Sounds as good a plan as any." Tsubasa agreed and they both remained silent for a few seconds, collecting their thoughts."I heard you want to try to talk Zolda and the Nehushtan Armor user into joining us. But do you think that's a good idea? I mean, given their history, I doubt it'll be easy to persuade them."

"We'll need all the help with can get. Even more so if more dangerous Kamen Riders like Ouja are going to start appearing." Yosuke clenched his fists, frowning."And to top it off, we still have to find a way to defeat Odin."

"I'm not opposed to the idea. But...be careful. I'm still stuck in here for the time being and Ouja sounds like an extremely dangerous person. Don't do anything unnecessary."

"I know. But Tachibana and Ryu-kid are also on board with the idea." A chuckle escaped his lips."This is a bit out of topic, but they've been getting closer lately. I think it's just a matter of time before they get together."

"Tachibana? And Adachi?" Tsubasa blinked."But they're...I wouldn't say polar opposites but Tachibana is such a sweet girl. And Adachi is an andrenaline junkie."

"The kid has a heart of gold believe it or not. Besides, they say opposites attract. If anyone can bring the best out of someone like Adachi, it's Tachibana."

"And what about you?" Tsubasa took reign of the conversation."Have any girls caught your interest?"

"Would you believe me if I say it's you?" Yosuke snickered at his comment."Just kidding. You're like a sister to me. But no. I suppose not. I haven't given it much thought. Same as you, I suppose. But having a relationship is no good for you since you're an idol. Wouldn't want your fans to hunt down the unfortunate soul."

"And what does that mean? Unfortunate?"

"Never mind." Yosuke poked her forehead before walking past her."Anyway. I must get going. I wouldn't want to ruin my attendance record. As the student council president, I have to set a good example for my peers."

"That's true. Take care and come visit soon. And don't tell anyone about my room!"

"I won't have to." Yosuke laughed at her expense. But for the first time in years, they were finally acting their age. As regular teenagers with no worries or concerns.