Reviews:
Tigracho: Yeah, this chapter was a whole meme. Kuroiwa just casually spiking people's drinks and not thinking about the consequences. Also, I'm glad you liked that Takeru and Chris moment. I was looking forward to writing it for a long time. As for the death flags...In reality, they all have death flags. Maybe the only one who doesn't it's Hajime since he's the main character and Hazuki since he's the main antagonist aside from Odin. Though some of them have more death flags than others. Takeru since he's being hunted down by Allister. Jades, Raiden, and Andreas since Terunosuke said he would kill them. Chiaki wants to kill Miku and this might piss off the wrong people, Hazuki included. But that line from Takeru I got from a book. I don't remember what book exactly but I didn't mean to give him any death flags lol.
lordri25may2001: The reason why Yosuke and Tsubasa seem to be the less interactive couple is because of a few things. Mainly because of Tsubasa's dad. It hasn't been explained yet, but it was established back in season 1 that her dad doesn't like Yosuke and doesn't approve of him. Also, Tsubasa is an idol. Japanese idols have a strict rule to not date anyone. So Yosuke said to keep their relationship a secret for those reasons. Also, they're kind of awkward in general so they don't know how to express their feelings all that much. Maria is the same case with the idol stuff, but she's loved Jades for a long time so she doesn't care about hiding it from anyone. Kuroiwa wasn't really seducing Shirabe. He just thought she looked like a doll and wanted to dress her up like one. It hasn't been said yet but he used to be into girl stuff when he was a kid so that's why he reacted that way when he saw her. As for the Garie and Damian moment...it's coming. Next chapter. I forgot Hibiki's dad's name was Akira too. That's why the first Ryuki was named Akira.
FlameFireZero X: Kuroiwa is not planning anything good lol
Tenzalucard123: Yes, Hibiki's dad still running at the sight of danger. Maria is the one in charge of her relationship with Jades and all he can do is say yes to her. Chao-Xing wants to be better than Hibiki, but Hibiki doesn't want to compete with her like that. I was happy to write Chris and Takeru scene. It's one of my favorites. I loved that movie. Kuroiwa is going to regret putting stuff in their drinks.
Chapter 60
Dangerous Games
"Garie Schwarzer! What room is she in?!" Damian slammed his hands on the receptionist's desk, startling the poor woman.
"G-Garie-"
"I'm her husband! Royal Knight, Damian Schwarzer!" He cried again, desperation in his voice."My wife! What room is she-"
"Third floor, room 10."
A middle-aged man with dark hair and a well-kept beard stood near the stairs. He was wearing very elegant clothes and a long red cape along with a crown, guarded by two knights.
"M-my Liege!" Damian quickly took a knee, but due to exhaustion and his nerves all over the place, he slipped and fell on the ground."I-I'm sorry, King Dario, but I-"
"Forget about me, my boy." The King helped the knight up, urging him to get to his wife."Go. Wait not for me."
"Do not go into the fourth floor!" The nurse cried."That's where those infected with the plague are being quarantined. You mustn't do, under any circumstances, go there!"
With a nod, Damian broke into a sprint, running up the stairs of the capital hospital, Damian made his way to the operating room after returning from a mission on a horse. He bumped into plenty of people, ignoring the protests of those he shoved out of his way. He had missed it. Or at least, he thought he didn't. He didn't know a storm was going to delay his return for another day. But when he received news of his wife about to give birth, he ran from his makeshift camp back to the kingdom, even if he would catch a disease from being out in the storm. Once he got to the floor, he began looking around wildly, searching for the room number.
"Over here!" Micha waved him over, guiding him to Garie's room."It's over here!"
Damian followed the red-haired down the corridor until they reached the operating room Garie was in. Fortunately, due to his status as Royal Guard, he was able to get Garie to the best hospital in the kingdom and with the best doctors Ventara had to offer. But he still was a nervous mess.
"Easy." Leiur grabbed him by the shoulders, noticing how much he was shaking."You're going to go into shock at this rate. Then you'll be staying here with Garie."
"Everything will be fine." Lulu, Leiur's little sister, who looked similar to her except for being a bit shorter, also offered words of comfort.
"Sit him down." Phara grabbed a nearby chair from another room and set it next to the door. Leiur and Lulu guided Damian over to the chair while Micha fetched him some water.
"I should probably let you know the Queen is inside," Leiur said, nearly causing the bluenette to have another heart attack.
"To accompany her, of course." Phara emphasized, glaring at Leiur."Also, she wants to bless the baby herself. You're soaked. Did you ride her while the storm is going on?"
Damian said nothing, gazing firmly in front of him. Micha waved her hand around, but the young man made no response.
"Gods, Damian, relax." Leiur chuckled, leaning against the wall next to him."You'll be a great father."
"I've...never done this sort of thing..." Damian muttered, running a hand through his hair.
"Most first-time parents haven't." Phara quipped, trying to ease the tension to no avail."So...do you know what it is yet?"
"Garie said she wants it to be a surprise," Damian responded.
"Which one do you want?" Micha offered him the cup of water, which he downed in one sip.
"Not sure..." And it was true. He didn't know which one would be better to raise. He would love them either way, that's for sure. Naturally, he was leaning on it being a boy, since he wanted to teach them the arts of the sword. But a girl was capable of being a knight, as demonstrated by Princess Lucine."I kept wondering what it's like for it to come out of here like that?"
"What?" Leiur glanced at him.
"Every night, I could barely sleep, thinking that she would go into labor and I wouldn't be ready. So when I was requested for that mission outside of the kingdom-"
"You asked me to watch over her." Phara finished for him."Then when her water broke, Zeke and I brought her straight to the hospital. Like I promised."
"Right. Thank you..." Damian rubbed his exhausted eyes."I just...I heard from other knights that some women die like that. It all goes wrong and the kid breaks something inside them and they bleed out. I...I don't want to lose my wife and child like that. Plus, she's not exactly putting on weight. What if the birth is too much for her body to handle? She's frail, slender, and she-"
"It will be fine."
Izak, Carol, and Leonardo came into view, escorted by Zeke. The King, Prince, and Princess also made their way to the group, all of them radiating a huge amount of respect.
"Looking a little rough there, man." Zeke quipped sarcastically."I've been protecting the prince this whole week. Hope you're not too jealous."
"Damian!" Bragard ran to his second knight."Congratulations! Is it a boy or a girl?!"
"The baby is not out yet, Bragi." Lucine ruffled her brother's hair.
"Your Majesties-"
Dario rose his hand, halting them from kneeling."Today, I am not here as a king. But as a father visiting a new father."
"If it's a girl, you better be careful." Izak folded his arms with a smile."They grow up fast. Bossy too."
"Papa, what's that supposed to mean?" Carol pouted at the implication.
"Damian Schwarzer?" The nurse opened the door, revealing the beautiful blonde queen giving the young father a tender smile.
"That's me. Your Highness, thank you for accompanying my wife." Damian bowed down.
"Anything for a knight of your caliber. You've been by my son's side all these years. You are practically part of the family now." The Queen smiled, causing a few tears to fall down Damian's cheeks."It's too soon to be crying, dear. Get in there."
"She's tired. But she made it through. She's requesting for her husband." The nurse grabbed the young man's hand, guiding him inside."Steady, dear knight. Surely you have faced life-and-death situations before in your line of work. This should be easy."
"It's different..."
Damian immediately saw Garie and rushed to her bedside."Garie..."
"Hey..." Garie smiled tiredly after being hours in labor."Come say hi to our son..."
"Our...son...?" Damian nearly passed out there and there, but somehow managed to fall on his knees and crawl closer to the bed. And that's when she moved the blankets around the small baby in her arms. Their son, his tiny face exploring his own.
Garie giggled at his reaction, her eyes glowing glassy as the scene warmed her up. The baby boy had her pale complexion but his dad's eyes. Damian was a little hesitant. He had killed people before in the name of Ventara. For his hands to hold this child so casually...
"Why don't you show him to the others?" Garie drawled, giving him a reassuring smile."Everyone's eager to meet him."
"Garie...our son is the most beautiful thing I've ever seen." Damian broke into a sob, holding the baby in one arm and grabbing her hand with the other."We've been blessed. I'm so happy..."
Garie was unable to keep her calm facade and started crying with him. She had promised herself to remain strong for her husband since she knew he was more emotional than he let on. But finally meeting their son...She wasn't prepared."Don't leave me... I missed you a lot. It's been hard...these past few days without you. And when I heard this storm coming through I...I couldn't eat, I couldn't sleep. Where is my husband, I wondered. Will he be able to make it back? I feared our baby would not get to see his father..."
"And I made it just in time." Damian sniffed, brushing his face against his damped uniform."I always will."
"Darling, you're soaked!" Garie gasped."At this rate, you'll be in the hospital here with me!"
"I'm fine." Damian smiled, tugging the baby into the white sheets so it wouldn't get wet too."I'm fine. We'll be fine."
"Damian." Dario and Queen Pauline entered the room."You have our utmost congratulations. Why don't you step outside for a minute? I had Leonardo bring you some food and fresh, dry clothes."
"I'll keep your wife accompanied." Pauline smiled, looking over her shoulder to see."The girls want to see the baby too."
Damian looked over at Garie, who gave him a gentle nod."I'll be fine..."
"Also, I should let you know, I'm giving you a few months to accommodate your new life as a father," Dario informed them, causing their eyes to widen.
"B-but your Highness, who will guard Prince Bragard...?"
"Zeke was a little too eager to take that position." Dario mused."He doesn't want to admit it, but he's worried about your well-being. So he offered to take up your tasks and be with Bragard. Besides, this is only temporary. So you can be with your wife for the first few months and take it easy. You've earned it. Your father would be proud."
"Thank you, your Highness..." Damian gave a firm nod. He slowly set the baby back on Garie's chest, afraid to drop him.
"Darling, I got him." Garie giggled, wrapping her arms around her child."Go. I'll wait. I love you. So, so, much."
"I love you too. I love you too. With all of my life." Damian nodded, making his way to the door while his gaze remained on his family.
"Hey, eyes up front." Leuir grabbed his head, forcing him to look straight. Damian muttered an apology and exited the room.
"How are you feeling?" Phara asked her friend, who heaved a long, exhausted sigh.
"So fucking tired..." Garie moaned, feeling her energy completely sapped."Everything hurts. And pushing felt like hell. But...I am the first in our group to be a mother."
"At least you're honest." Leiur quirked a brow."And you put on quite the show, I'm sure."
"Look at the baby! So cute!" Micha beamed along with Lulu.
"So chubby."
Outside of the room, Damian bumped into the chair outside and nearly fell to the ground.
"Easy, man. Get it together." Zeke caught him with one arm, preventing him from collapsing."Sheez. You're supposed to be a Royal Knight and a father. Look more dignified, for heaven's sake."
"Sir Damian!" Carol and Bragard ran to the tired knight."Can we...see the baby?"
"Huh? Oh, yes." He offered a tired smile."Go right in..."
"Yay! I can meet the baby!" Bragard cheered, rushing inside with Carol.
"Your clothes." Leonardo handed him the dry spare clothes they had fetched for him.
"Thanks," Damian muttered.
"Be ready to wake up in the middle of the night from the sounds of crying." Izak rested a hand on the young man's shoulder."And for the constant sleepless nights and the worries. But also prepare for the future. Because let me tell you, they grow up fast."
"I will." Damian forced a smile."I'll make sure to protect them and give them love. No matter what."
"So, what will you call him?" Lucine folded her arms under her chest."Thought of a name yet?"
"Tobias." Damian closed his eyes, a small smile forming on his lips."Tobias sounds like a good name, just like my father."
After changing into some dry clothes, Damian made his way back to his family. The baby was back in Garie's arms, who had fallen asleep in her arms. The young father limped his way over to her side as she patted the spot next to her. He carefully sat down on the bed, wrapping an arm around her slim frame.
"We might have to get a new house." Garie muttered, gazing at her baby lovingly then back to her husband."Tobias will need more space to play. And just more space, overall."
"You...knew I was going to call him that?" He tilted his head in bewilderment.
"Of course. You always told me how much your dad inspired you to become a knight. So it's only fitting." She leaned her head against his, yawning after a long day."I love that name."
"Well, I'm sure we can start looking for a new house. Money isn't an issue. And thanks to the generosity of the King, I'll be around the house for a while to help you with Tobias."
"But you'll go back...won't you? To the frontlines?" She frowned, reaching for his hand. Tears glistened in her eyes, but Damian was quick to comfort her.
"I must, Garie dearest." He leaned forward, kissing her on the lips."But much like today, I will always ride back home to see my family. Our child will have both of his parents and he'll grow up splendidly. I...suppose you can also teach him how to dance."
"Really?" Garie's eyes gleamed with happiness.
"Indeed." Damian settled down on the pillow as his adrenaline finally died out. Garie was also exhausted and was unable to keep her eyes open. Soon enough, the family of 3 was asleep on the hospital bed.
Garie lost her footing once she teleported back to the base, falling on her rear.'What...was that? Was I hallucinating?'
"Everything alright? Did they hit you too hard or something?" Phara asked derisively."You're looking like you're spacing out. How unlike you."
"Always the one to want to put on a show." Leiur addressed her."You don't hold back."
"Whatever." Garie closed her eyes, trying to recall back that strange dream but she had already forgotten it.
"What, you mad that you're the only one who never broke a Pendant or Deck?" Micha snickered.
"Shut up." Garie sneered in disdain at the jab."It's not my fault that bitch is useless. I'll get back at her for this."
"Whatever the case, I should probably make my move soon." Phara said."No point in wasting time."
"Right. But I won't let you be the first." Garie looked up to the banners on top of them."I'm going to go visit Lord Bragard."
"Why?" Phara inquired, a sly smile gracing her features."Do you want to see your prince charming?"
"Prince?"
"I believe she means Damian, not Prince Bragard himself." Leiur clarified."You two have gotten quite attached lately."
"Hah. You're misreading the situation." Garie scoffed, taking out a red vial."I'm just making sure he knows I will follow my reason for my creation."
With those words, Garie broke the vial and teleported away.
Once she reached the inside of Bragard's base, or rather, castle, which essentially worked as the Overall, she noticed she had teleported inside his laboratory. He was sitting in front of his computer, legs on top of the keyboard, and the light snoring gave away that he was sleeping. She took a quick glimpse at what he was looking at and felt a sickly feeling in her stomach.
Goliath Noise.
Four...monsters. That's the only one she could use, were being worked on. Their appearances were blacked out, but the silhouettes were visible, as well as their gigantic sizes. She shook her head, focusing on her task. She ventured further into the lab, walking in the quiet halls of the Overall until she reached the maintenance room. The door opened up after the sensor sensed her, allowing her inside. There, she saw two tubes containing Zeke and Damian, who were in an unconscious state. He looked...peaceful floating in the liquid inside the tube. As if he was in a deep slumber. Though more than likely he was just deactivated while he was being upgraded.
"Hey, Damian." She approached his tube, staring at his face with a stoic expression."I don't know if you can hear me. If you don't that's good, because I don't want you hearing this embarrassing stuff. I was hoping we could talk. At least, one last time. I'm going to go fulfill my purpose. The reason I was created. I'll be the first."
Of course, no reply came back, but she expected that. She ran a hand through the glass with a sad smile."I want to do this. I thought about what you said. About something more out there for us. But I don't think there is. We were created for this. And I think you should do the same. Follow our Masters' orders and obey. This...humanity thing. I don't get it. What's the point of that? We're better in every way than humans. And yet, you want to be one."
She took a deep breath to compose herself."But...I suppose I get it. I don't know why, but I'm starting to see what you meant before. When you said you felt a familiar feeling with me. I feel the same now. I don't want to go like this, but I must. I just hoped I could talk to you one last time."
"There will be time for that."
Garie yelped, shifting her gaze to the door and noticing Bragard standing there with a smile."L-Lord Bragard! How long were you there for?!"
"I heard the last part, so don't worry about it." Bragard rose a hand, easing her worries. He placed his hands behind him as he approached the tubes."Unfortunately, they're not quite ready yet. These are the biggest upgrades so far and they'll allow them to fight on equal terms to the Kamen Riders, even in the Survive forms."
"I see..."
"But you don't need to worry. Once we kill them and defeat Adam, we'll set our sights on Odin. Once I get my wish, I can reunite you two again." Bragard grabbed her chin with his fingers, forcing her head to look at him."That is what you want. Well, as your Prince, I would not be fit to rule over my subjects if I didn't reward them. So I shall make it so you two are reunited in the new world after we massacre humanity."
"I'll see him...again...?" Garie whispered, but Bragard heard her just fine.
"Of course, dear. You guys are my closest confidants. I want what's best for you. A true ruler has to make sure his subjects are happy at all times. But...I suppose I can wake him up now. However, he will miss out on finishing his upgrades. But I am sure he would love to accompany you and be there to see you fulfill your purpose."
"Can...you do that...?"
"Of course!" Bragard skipped over to his computer, typing a few things on his keyboard. The glass tube began draining the liquid inside, slowly opening up and revealing Damian. The shark young man cracked his eyes open, wincing due to the light.
"Damian, my boy!" Bragard clapped to wake him up."Garie is going on her mission! And I thought you might want to go with her. Of course, your upgrades aren't finished. I haven't properly accustomed your body to the Divine Power. So if you go now, you might not be able to get these upgrades."
"I'm going." Damian rubbed his eyes, fully waking up from his slumber."Garie...this means a lot to you, doesn't it?"
"It does..." Garie nodded, taken aback by how he glanced at her. His face was full of sadness, and yet, he looked happy for her.
"Then I'll be there for you. I'll protect you." Damian shifted his gaze to Bragard."I don't mind waiting for the upgrades. I think the ones I have should be enough to put me on par with them."
"Then be on your guard. Do your job, Autoscorers." Bragard waved his hand dismally."I must get back to work."
"Right..." Damian trailed off, walking with Garie outside of the room.
"Why are you coming with me?" Garie asked, frowning skeptically."You better not be trying to steal my spotlight."
"I just want to be with you." He easily answered, taking her by surprise."Nothing more. Nothing less."
As they teleported away, Bragard let out a boisterous laugh that echoed through his laboratory.
"Hahahaha! I can't wait! I can't wait to see just how far my game will go!" He grinned wickedly."You are my property. It's your job to entertain your prince, toys!"
"Everyone!" Kuroiwa rose his arm in the air, his eyes not focused at all due to his drunken state."Pick a chopstick! We're playing King's Game!"
"W-what's a what now?" Maria hiccuped, her face flushed.
"Why is everyone drunk?" Chao-Xing wondered, examining her drink."I thought they said this was non-alcoholic..."
"Go on, don't be shy now!" Kuroiwa walked around the room, letting everyone pick a chopstick at random from the cup."The one who gets the chopsticks with the red tip is the king!"
"Yeah, we know how to play." Hajime groaned, rubbing his head to try and ease the headache he was feeling.
"I got it!" Takeru rose the chopsticks with the red marking."As king...I order number 8 to hug me!"
"What?!" Yosuke stood up in a rush."But I'm number 8..."
"Come on, Yanagi-san." Kuroiwa folded his arms, tapping his foot."King's orders are absolute."
"It's just a hug." Tsubasa shrugged nonchalantly."Can't be that bad."
"Hug! Hug! Hug!" Everyone demanded, peer pressuring Yosuke to march over to Takeru and engulfed him in a hug.
"There, there." Takeru tapped his back."Let it all out, my boy."
"Shut up." Yosuke pulled back, embarrassed beyond belief.
"Now, according to the rules of the game, the next command has to be a little more...Shall we say, intimate?" Kuroiwa suggestively wagged his eyebrows, collecting the chopsticks."Oh, Kirika~!"
"I don't want to play anymore!" Kirika shouted.
"Relax, Kirika-chan." Setsuna giggled, her body moving around due to her inability to stand straight."It's going to be fine..."
"Seriously, what was in that drink?" Chao-Xing repeated, pouring more into her cup.
"Dunno what you're talking about sweetheart." Kuroiwa feigned ignorance, suddenly opening up the buttons of his shirt."Damn, it's fucking hot in here now."
"No kidding." Jades agreed, fanning himself with his hand. Nonetheless, they all took another sip from the drinks, further putting more alcohol into their systems.
The group grabbed the chopsticks again and the game began anew.
"I'm...the king." Hajime declared, flipping his hair dramatically."And as King...no as the Messiah...I demand number 14 to sit on my lap!"
Shirabe immediately paled at the request."I'm 14..."
"Hey, no funny ideas." Jades pointed his finger accusingly at Hajime.
"I have a girlfriend. It's all good." Hajime drawled, leaning back on the couch."You're welcome anytime, Shirabe-chan."
"Uh..." Hibiki trailed off. Despite being drunk, she still felt this was kind of weird. Shirabe wordlessly made her way to Hajime and unceremoniously sat on his lap.
The raven-haired kept a straight face as if deep in thought while the dark-haired girl shifted awkwardly.
"Can I get off now...?"
"Sure."
"Nice, it's getting spicy in here." Kuroiwa grinned, secretly celebrating that his plan was coming to fruition."Now, let's go for ano-"
"WAIT!" Hibiki jumped from her spot, sitting on top of Hajime's lap."I want to do it too!"
"Oh?!" Kuroiwa's eyes widened."So direct! Did you get jelous, Tachibana-chan?!"
"Hibiki...!" Miku gasped at how shameless her friend was being.
"I can't help it...I feel weird and I just want to be with my boyfriend right now..." She blushed with a silly expression on her face.
"Now we're getting serious." Kuroiwa walked around as everyone took their chopsticks.
"I'm the king!" Setsuna beamed, jumping up and down."No messing around! Number 3, come and give me a big old kiss!"
"YES!" Andreas cheered, but immediately backpedaled when everyone glanced in his direction."I-I-I mean...that's me..."
"Aw, I was hoping it was Jades-san." Setsuna shrugged, skipping over to Andreas and sitting on his lap, pulling him by the collar of his shirt and kissing him.
"WHAT THE FUCK!" Hajime fumed, running over and pulling Setsuna away."What are you doing?! You can't just do that!"
"Hey, the king's orders are absolute!" She hiccuped, giggling as she pulled on his cheeks."Loosen up a little, Haji..."
"But...your innocence..." Hajime lamented.
"They gotta grow up at some point, Hajime," Jades said, laughing like a child.
Andreas, meanwhile just collapsed on the ground, unable to keep playing.
"Okay! Now I'm getting into this game!" Takeru finished another cup, tossing it to the ground."Bring it on!"
"Seriously?" Hazuki blinked, turning to talk to Miku."Miku, I think this-"
"Haz..." Miku wrapped her arms around his neck, forcing him down to the ground."What cologne do you use? You smell so good..."
"Hey! Save it, you guys!" Kuroiwa shook his head."There's plenty of time for that later. Now, let's begin the new round!"
"I'm the King!" Jades cheered, nearly losing his balance from standing up too fast."I want number 4 and number 1 to come here and let me carry them like babies!"
"What?!" Both Raiden and Tsubasa exclaimed in horror.
Jades approached them with a big smile, scoping Tsubasa in his right arm before picking Raiden up on the other, carrying them effortlessly and rocketing them in place."Aw, who are my little babies? Yes, you are~. Yes, you are~!"
"This is so embarrassing..." Tsubasa, despite being drunk over her head, still had some self-consciousness left in her.
"Sorry, Tsubasa-san..." Raiden muttered dryly.
"Hey, Raiden. I used to do this to you when you couldn't sleep, remember?" Jades cooed."Good times."
"Don't remind me..." The brunette deadpanned. Eventually, Jades grew tired and fell back onto the couch before everyone put their chopsticks back in the cup.
"Okay!" Kuroiwa shook the cup around."Let's-"
"Hold on." Raiden interrupted."They passed out."
In effect, Tobias, Shirabe, Andreas, Setsuna, and Elfnein were out cold on the ground.
"We're down 4 players." Kuroiwa clicked his tongue. He should have expected that such an amount of alcohol would knock out kids like them."And I'm the king. Number 7...straddle me."
"Bro, what?" Hajime's jaw dropped to the ground."You know there's more than just girls here, right? What if you get a guy?"
"Hajime, I'm a man of principles, who believes in faith more than anything. As well as luck. Plus, 7 is my lucky number." Kuroiwa stated."So, who is number 7?"
"No...Absolutely not!" Kirika shot up to her feet."I am not doing that-desu!"
"Kirika, don't be such a party pooper." Maria slurred, leaning against Jades."Just do it."
"J-Jades-nii-chan!"
"I mean...King's orders are absolute, right?" Jades chuckled, his head spinning."Hey...since when did you have a twin? Why are there like...3 of you now...?"
"Are we drunk...?" Tsubasa wondered, realization finally setting in.
"No. It's just your imagination." Kuroiwa dismissed the thought.
"Ah. Makes sense." She nodded, taking his word as law.
Kirika begrudgingly approached Kuroiwa, resting her legs on top of the couch before sitting on top of him, and grabbing his shoulders.
"You know...I know I didn't say it, but you can kiss me if you want, Power Girl." Kuroika cupped her cheek, trying to bring her lips close to his.
"No..." Kirika pushed his face away, but he leaned forward."Are you really interested in me...? Really...?"
"I am. I never met a more beautiful girl than you. Your jolly personality is the best thing ever and I love how carefree you are. You're a little like me."
Kirika blushed at the compliment and closed her eyes in anticipation."Desu..."
However, before their lips could touch, she lost consciousness, falling limp onto the couch.
"Damn it...I was so close..." Kuroiwa cursed his rotten luck, but seeing as how the girl he liked was out of the game, he decided to finally let sleep overtake him and lay next to her, bringing her closer to him.
"Fucking asshole. He must have spiked our drinks." Chao-Xing cursed under her breath as she stood up, heading for the kitchen."I'm going to kill him when he wakes up..."
After leaving, the room was left with only Hajime, Hibiki, Yosuke, Tsubasa, Takeru, Chris, Jades, and Maria still awake. Hazuki, Miku, and Raiden volunteered to help carry the others to their rooms as well as clean up the mess left behind.
"Man...what a weird ass night, huh?" Hajime chuckled, feeling extremely dizzy."What do you guys-"
Out of nowhere, Maria was on top of Jades, removing his shirt as they kissed hungrily. He lifted her shirt, revealing her bra while she wrapped her arms around him.
"Hey! Hey!" Hajime yelped, covering his eyes."Don't do it here! What the fuck?! Go to your room!"
Jades picked up Maria, not stopping with their kissing, and headed for their room.
"Jesus..." Hajime muttered, grabbing a pillow and burying his head.
Takeru and Chris left wordlessly, with the former mercenary guiding her away as they both giggled like children.
"Hibiki, we should get everyone to bed." Hajime suggested, raising a brow once he felt Hibiki laying on top of him, pinning his arms."Uh...what are you doing?"
Hibiki just smiled at him with her whole face a deep shade of red as she leaned down, kissing him."Hajime..."
"Hibiki, stop..." Hajime muttered, shuttering when he felt her biting his earlobe."Hibiki!"
"Stop? Stop why?" She mewled, giggling.
"You're drunk...this isn't like you." He shook his head, pushing her off him."We need to get you to bed now before you do something dumb."
"But I want to do this." She forced him into another hug, but the young man pushed her away, quickly standing up.
"No. It's not. I mean, we do but...not like this." Hajime quickly ran for the door and that's when he noticed the predatory look she was giving him. He yelped, slamming the door shut as she heard Hibiki running after him.
"Guess that settles that." Yosuke erupted into boisterous laughter, much unlike him."They ignored us and went on their way."
"Should we stop them...?" Tsubasa slurred.
"I can't even stop myself, much less them." He muttered.
"So...does that mean you...you know...want to do...it...?"
"Yeah. To be honest, we haven't done anything as a couple." Yosuke heaved a deep sigh."But...we can't. For a few seasons. One, you're an idol. Our relationship can't be known to the public."
"But that's-"
"That doesn't mean we can love each other outside of the public's eyes." He cut her off."Tsubasa, I love you. But I know how much your career as an idol means. I don't want to take that away from you. Also...as much as I dislike your Dad, I don't want to take your purity away without his blessing. He doesn't know we're dating in secret. And while I hate him for how he treats you...I also have to respect him. My father taught me the importance of tradition. So before we take the next step...I want to ask for his blessing. Is...that okay with you? Sorry. I know I may sound like such a drag."
"No. It's fine." She shook her head, a warm smile gracing her features."I'm just happy you feel that way about me. I agree. We should wait until we're a little older and more prepared before we cross that line. And yes, eventually we'll have to talk to my father...Though I'm a little concerned about that."
"You're concerned? Hah. I'm shaking on my boots." Yosuke scoffed."And don't even get me started on your grandfather...Seriously...Anyways, should we head to bed?"
"Can you..." Tsubasa averted her eyes, blushing."Sleep with me today...? We don't have to do anything explicit...but I just want to be with you. Is...that okay...?"
"Of course." Yosuke nodded, surprising her by carrying her bridal style."Sakamoto told me to do this. But...It's a little embarrassing."
"I think it's fine." She wrapped her arms around his neck."You're fine the way you are. I love you."
"I love you too."
Hajime ran down the house, looking for a place to hide, hearing Hibiki cry for his name. He eventually reached the kitchen, slamming the door shut and putting a chair against it.
"Oh. You're here." Chao-Xing acknowledged him, stuffing her face with the leftovers of their feast from earlier.
"What's going on?! What happened to everyone?!" Hajime exclaimed to his cousin.
"Your dumbass friends spiked the cocktail." She answered, resuming her big meal."We're all drunk."
"Well, I don't feel that drunk. They're all out of it."
"Us Liangs have a high alcohol tolerance." She replied, setting her chopsticks down."Except, of course, for the children. So that's why your sister passed out earlier. But we are affected by it. For example, when I'm in a drunken stupor, I get extremely hungry. More so than usual. Some others get sleepy, like that Hazuki kid. And you just stay wide awake."
"Again with Hazzy-san being a Liang." Hajime rubbed his temples."He's not a Liang."
"You're just in denial." Chao-Xing rolled her eyes."I can tell by his Chi. It's similar to yours. Way too similar. It feels just like you and Xiangling."
"Xiangling?"
"Your sister. She told me her middle name." Chao quickly elaborated."Anyway, it makes sense. He must be that bastard child your father had and left running around."
"Just...shut up." Hajime sighed, taking a side on the opposite chair."You're just lying to rile me up."
"I am many things, Lingyun. But a liar isn't one of them." She rested her chin on her palm."Look. I'm not saying this to spite you. Sure, I don't really like you. But at the same time, we're the few remaining Liangs. Whether I like it or not, we're...family, I suppose."
"We're not." Hajime spat scornfully."We're related, yes. But we're not family. Your side of the family vanished us and refused to help us look for my Dad."
"You must understand, we're a clan that values loyalty and costumes." She stated."The fact your father went against our tradition and married not one but two Japanese women is nothing short of an insult to our honor."
"Yeah? And look where that honor got you." He growled.
Chao furrowed her brows, glaring daggers at him."That's because of your fucking father. I don't know what he did to piss Bragard off to the point where he ordered the extermination of all Liangs, but we're in this mess today because of him. Your father created the enemy we're facing today!"
"I...I can't deny that." Hajime relented, lowering his gaze in shame."But Dad abandoned us. Walked out on us without an explanation. He wasn't there nor did he watch us grow up. And when my mom died...he never showed up either. I don't know where he is today. Odin said he's closer than I think. But...I can't refute your words."
Chao raised a brow, not having expected this reply.
"I know. Everything that's happened is his fault. The Rider War. All of those affected by it. The Liangs. And while...I don't like them. I also didn't wish them to die. You lost your mom. Your whole family except for your dad and brother. I know this may not be what you want to hear, but...I'm sorry."
"Look..." Chao-Xing sighed, scratching her head."I...don't blame you. It's your father who did that, not you. And thus, you shouldn't blame yourself either. Hold your head high. You are a half-bred, but still a Liang nonetheless. I must admit I may have judged you too harshly. My whole life has been filled with people singing praises for me. For my talent. My strength. All for a purpose that will never come true. I am not the heir to the Liang clan anymore." Her gaze darted over to her bionic arm."I am not invincible as I once had thought. Even with this power, I still have limitations. But still, I will fight to the last breath. I will fight to avenge our family. And I may need your help for it."
"Oh, I want to fight Bragard too, trust me." Hajime nodded."I also want to protect the family I have left. And my friends. There's a lot a stake in this fight."
"Indeed." She trailed off, glancing over to one of the cakes."You and I are fundamentally different. We herald from the same clan but our cultures, our worlds. Are different. Chinese value honor and loyalty, even more so than the Japanese. Actions speak louder than words. Ever since I was a child, I was raised to meet those expectations. I was told I was to be the one with limitless potential who would lead the clan. Our clan has been dwindling for various reasons over the years. Eventually, we were split into two groups. Those who stayed in China, and those who came here for new opportunities."
"So you weren't born here...?"
"Neither was my father nor yours." She added."I suppose, in a way, I'm not 100% Chinese, even though both of my parents are. I was born in Tokyo. In fact, I even have a Japanese name."
"Really? I figured you were a city girl due to all the cursing. But you have a Japanese name?" Hajime perked up at that, curiosity taking over his drunken mind."What is it?"
"I won't tell you." She shrugged, earning a dismayed look."Anyway, what I'm trying to say is that we're similar but we have some aspects that make us different. And now, we have the same common goal. To kill Bragard. I want to avenge the Liangs and restore their honor and you want to protect your family."
"Not only that...I'm hoping to put an end to him for the sake of what my Dad caused. All of the people who suffered because of his decision."
"Is that so?" She sounded genuinely surprised."Why? You had nothing to do with it. His sins shouldn't be carried by either you or Xiangling."
"Maybe so. But he's still my Dad. And I want to be better than him." He confessed, clenching his fists."For that, I'm going to put an end to the problem he caused. So that no one else has to suffer because of Bragard. I'm going to put an end to this crusade of chaos. I think I can say the same about you. You have another reason, don't you?"
"Another reason?"
"You want to protect your family too." Hajime smiled warmly."Not just revenge or honor. You're fighting for what you have left. I think there's no greater other than fighting for those you love. Right?"
"Heh. Look at you, lecturing me about honor." Chao-Xing scoffed at the idea."I suppose you people are changing me somewhat. You and your friends are quite strange."
"They're your friends too, you know. Or could be."
"Friends?" She repeated."That...may not be possible. After my revenge is over, I'll have no more reason to hang around with you people. My time here will be over."
"And you'll do what?"
"I..." She cursed under her breath, unable to come up with a response.
"Like I said, they can be your friends too. Just be a little nicer, that's all. But they all want you on the team. Believe it or not, half of them were our enemies at one point. Life just works itself out. I guess...I do as well. I guess I've warmed up to you a bit."
"Yes, I noticed."
"Really? How?"
"You started responding whenever I call you Lingyun." She pointed out."Before you would just flat-out ignore me. It goes to show we're learning to tolerate each other. As for your idea...I could consider it. Overcoming those girls would prove to be a fine challenge. I can already see myself as the strongest Symphogear."
"Humble much?" He laughed, earning a chuckle from her. Hajime then noticed something off about her food."Chao-Xing...so you're hungry, right? But why are you eating all of the sweets we bought?"
"Huh?"
In effect, Chao-Xing had piled up all the cakes, cupcakes, cookies, and ice cream around as well as a jog of milk and some Nutella on the side."I-I-I..."
"The stoic Chao-Xing loves sweets." Hajime teased his cousin, receiving a growl."I didn't expect that from you. I also have a sweet tooth."
"You mention this to anyone, I'm coming for you."
"Fine."
"Speaking of, I'm going to castrate that friend of yours for what he did."
"Feel free. I have a feeling that's the least of his problems."
Just then, the door was kicked down, revealing a hyper Hibiki, blushing furiously and breathing heavily from her nose."Hajime!"
"Aw, shit!" Hajime shot his cousin a pleading look, which she just shrugged in response.
"I believe this is where I give you advice and say "Wear protection."
Hajime bolted out of the kitchen, followed by a rabid Hibiki that finally managed to grab onto him, pulling him inside of her room and setting him flat on her bed."Hajime!"
"Hibiki, stop!" Hajime shouted, grasping her wrists."You're drunk! You don't want to do this!"
"But...I want to..." She lowered her tone, looking rather meek."I mean...we are a couple, right? Couples do this...sort of stuff...I thought that maybe...we could..."
"But not like this." Hajime whispered, releasing his hold on her wrists and caressing her face."Hibiki... you're not just a girl I just met and want to get freaky with. You're the love of my life. One day, I want to make you happy and make you forget all of your bad memories. Spend my life with you. So...if we're ever going to cross this line, I want it to be special. I want us to both agree on it. Not just something that happens because we're both drunk. Besides, your Mom and Grandmother would kill me. Don't even get me started on my Grandmother. I'm sorry...I guess you're disappointed..."
"Oh, gosh..." Hibiki gasped, sobering up slightly."What was I doing...? This isn't me. Hajime, I'm so sorry! I didn't mean to force you into anything!"
"It's okay, Sunshine." Hajime muttered, bringing her to his chest as they lay on her bed together."One day. But not today. We still have a lot to do together, right? No need to rush things. I can wait."
"I can wait too, Sunny." She kissed his cheek."I'm a little better now. Sleepy, but...I can think straight. Somewhat."
"When all of this ends, I want to give you a gift." He muttered, gently rubbing her back."I want to surprise you and give you a Promise Ring like the Captain did to Chris-san. It may seem like I'm rushing things, but...I do believe it's true when I say I want to be with you my whole life."
"I want to be with you forever too." She said lovingly before giggling."You said it's a surprise, but you just told me what it is."
"Oh. Shit..."
Meanwhile, Chris and Takeru were laying in bed, barely clothed as they kissed passionately.
"Chris..." He started, pulling back from the kiss as a trail of saliva connected their mouths."If we're going to do this, I want you to be in control, okay?"
"Me?"
"I know you're scared. And all things considered, you have every right to be." He muttered, laying down on the bed with his arms up."So we'll go at your own pace. You'll be in control and you'll do things you want to do. So don't worry about anything else. It's my first time...And yours too. Don't worry. This is the one that counts."
"Takeru..." Chris' heart skipped a beat. She smiled, laying on top of him before they resumed their makeup session.
"And that's the last one." Hazuki closed the door to Shirabe's room.
"We should get ourselves to bed too." Miku rubbed her sleepy eyes."Raiden-kun must have already gone to bed. I hope the others don't stay up too late."
"I would be too worried about them." Hazuki chuckled, though he knew something weird was going on."Well...goodnight, Moonlight."
"Good night, Starlight." She beamed, taking careful steps toward him. Standing on her tippy toes, Miku took the initiative and kissed Hazuki on the lips, much to the blonde's shock."Our first kiss. Good night. I love you."
"I-I love you too..." Hazuki muttered, watching as his new girlfriend made her way across the corridor, heading for her room."My heart...finally feels full. Miku...you-"
THERE WILL BE NO EXCEPTIONS
Hazuki winced, grabbing his head as he used the wall to support himself."No...Is there really no other way...? Will she understand?"
Kirika stirred awake from her slumber, releasing a loud yawn. She glanced down at her phone, realizing it was 7 in the morning. But as she began to get her bearings, she realized that she was laying on the couch she had fallen asleep on yesterday. Not only that, someone had tugged her in, which she appreciated due to how cold the air conditioner was.
"Must have been Jades-nii-chan." She deduced since it was something he always did for them.
She decided to go get some water for her dry throat and made her way to the kitchen. On her way, she passed Yosuke and Tsubasa, who were asleep on the couch. The others were gone, presumably back to their rooms. She could hear a vague noise from one of the rooms. She thought it sounded like...grunting? She shrugged, deciding to get her water and go to her room. She dragged her feet to the kitchen, which she realized had the lights on. She peered through the door frame, noticing Kuroiwa cooking something. His face was swollen and had a black eye, but he kept a smile as he prepared breakfast.
"Oh, hey." He greeted with a wave."Just making breakfast for the group. You just woke up?"
"I'm thirsty. And I have a headche-desu..." She shyly said, vaguely remembering how they were almost about to kiss yesterday."What happened to your face?"
"Chao-Xing-chan saw fit to beat me up a little. She was going to break one of my arms too but decided not to since she said she likes my cooking. I'm also making something perfect for hangovers." He grinned."I'm almost done with it. I call it the Kuroiwa Special."
"I don't trust that kind of name. Sounds fishy." She grabbed a nearby stool and sat on it, crossing her legs."But I love your food. It's good-desu."
The bluenette scoffed, shaking his head in disbelief."I...I know you may not believe it, but I'm sorry. For causing all this mess."
Kirika studied his face for any sign of deceit."What did you put in the drinks anyway?"
"Alcohol, as you may have guessed." He pulled on the collar of his shirt."And maybe some aphrodisiac."
"SAY WHAT-DESU?!"
"I didn't know!" Kuroiwa yelled, raising his arms in defense."My friend knows a bartender and he's the one who mixed it up! I told him it was for a party and well-"
"Oh...Oh..." Kirika's face turned blue one realization washed over her."So that's what those noises were..."
"Noises?"
"Nothing!" She quickly waved her hand, changing the subject."A-a-anyway, why did you do it!?"
"Because...Well, to be honest..." He scratched his neck."I always wanted to do this sort of thing. Commune with friends like this and just have a good time. I'm sorry. I took it for a game but for you guys, it's training, right? I'm sorry I haven't been much of a guide."
Kirika blinked, taken aback by his sudden shift in tone compared to the flirty boy from last night."You could have kissed me last night when I was spacing out. Why didn't you-desu?"
"It's...well, I guess I backed out at the last second. And you passed out. I didn't want to do anything weird so I just fell asleep too. When I woke up, you were curled up against me but it didn't feel right. I mean, it did. But not at the same time. So I tugged you in so you wouldn't feel cold."
"That was you?" Kirika gasped.
"Yeah..." Kuroiwa chuckled sheepishly."I'll be honest, Kirika. I've always had a thing for you. Back when we were kids, I used to play close enough to see you when you were playing with Hajime. I always tried approaching you but I guess you mistook me for a bully. Not that I blame you. I was a bit of a bully. But when you disappeared...I was a little heartbroken. I never asked for your name."
"Oh..." Kirika breathed, listening in with curiosity, feeling her cheeks flare up.
"Your outgoing and jolly personality...and your strength. I guess they made a big impression on me because I always remembered you. It hurt me when I moved to Okinawa. Because I was abandoning my best friend and also I thought I would never see you again. I was shocked when I saw you with Hajime. I...was really happy. I felt like there was so much I wanted to tell you. But my dumb ass just tried to act up and be cool so you could be impressed with me."
"You did impress me." Kirika confessed, brushing her hair behind her ear."But you're a bit of a pervert-desu. And you're too insensitive."
"Sorry, sorry. I'm trying to get better." He apologized again, resuming his cooking."But like I was saying, I really like you. A lot. But honestly, I'm fine if you don't feel the same way. I want to conquer your heart the hard way. I think that a girl that's hard to get is the most precious thing you'll ever find in your life. Those are the keepers. Or so my aunt says. So please, make it hard for me, okay? Because I'll keep trying until one day you're my girlfriend. No matter how tough it gets."
"Hamaguchi-kun..." Kirika blushed, astonished at his declaration. Was he really the Kuroiwa she met just yesterday? Or was this his real personality?
"Anyway, here. Dig up." His gentle smile turned sinister and he set a plate of food that radiated danger."Flame-grilled squid tentacles dressed with some Nutella that Chao-Xing bought yesterday. Usually, I use jam or whatever, but this works."
Kirika cringed at the sight of tentacles, holding the urge to vomit."T-t-tentacles-desu..."
"It's one of my specialties." Kuroiwa grinned, scooping some of it on a spoon and approaching Kirika, who fell on her rear and tried crawling away."Hey, you said you love my food!"
"Y-yeah! But not whatever this-"
Kuroiwa shoved the spoon inside Kirika's mouth, her face contorting in one of disgust. She felt as if a giant octopus was wrapping its tentacles around her body and forcing her in lewd positions."NOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!"
She punched the young man straight in the face, sending him crashing against the wall before rushing out of the room to vomit.
"I...deserved that..." He forced a smile, feeling blood streaming down his nose."I think she broke it..."
"That's not the only thing you'll break today."
Suddenly, a crowd of people with pissed-off expressions surrounded him from all angles.
"Oh, fuck..." He closed his eyes, saying a few prayers."Tell my sister and aunt I loved them."
Hajime raised a puzzled eyebrow as he walked by the kitchen, hearing the screams of his best friend but opting for ignoring them. He headed outside and into the early morning breeze. His cousin was sitting on the sand, meditating, he presumed.
"Morning." Hajime greeted, making his way toward her and sitting on the sand next to her.
"Have you given what I said any thought?"
"Hazzy-san is not related to us, Chao..."
"I guess you have not."
"What makes you say that anyway? I'm sure he would have told me."
'You look alike." She began listing with her fingers."He has pink eyes, his Chi feels similar to ours and his family is a mystery. Have you actually asked him?"
"Not yet...I mean, do I really want to know?" Hajime rubbed his arm."If he's connected to us...it would mean a lot of things. If he is my brother, I'm sure he would have told me. I doubt he would keep that to himself like that."
"Fine. Suit yourself." Chao-Xing abruptly stood up."Let me address the reason why I asked you to come out to meet me here. I want to fight you. No add-ons. Just our fists."
"Fight... seriously?"
"As serious as a heart attack." She nodded."Everyone seems to hype you up. And some even call you this...Messiah. I want to see if you're as strong as everyone claims you to be."
"No powers?"
"No powers."
"Well...okay then." He sighed, getting back on his feet."I haven't fought without my armor in a long time."
"I haven't fought in a while either. Not without my arm." She flexed her bionic arm."I can remove this if you want."
"No, that's okay. It's part of you."
"Very well then." She pressed her fist against her palm, giving a quick bow. Hajime did the same, assuming that this was a costume for the Liangs."You may be a half-breed, but you should still be a capable fighter. Let's see what a crossed-bred Liang can do."
"I'm curious to see what a full-fledged Liang can do too." Hajime rose his fists. Both Liangs stood opposite of each other, with the sound of the waves crashing against the shore serving as the only noise before their fight began.
I'm so sorry, but we have one more chapter to end the beach saga. I was going to finish everything here but I kept writing and realized it was going to be a huge chapter so I'm diving into it. Next time we'll have Garie and Damian fight and end with Hibiki's dad.