Sympho-Saber: Song of Swords

AXZ:EP04 – Ruinous Dragon's Rebirth

It was early in the morning as Chris was already in uniform and currently making sure she had everything prepared for the day ahead, or rather days given what had just come up.

"Man you all have been busy lately, huh?"

"Yep," Chris replied as she glanced back to see Desast sitting on her couch and reading Manga, "Thanks for agreeing to this again by the way."

"Hey, as much as I like wandering around I also like having a place to crash and grab snacks from," Desast remarked as he held up his Manga, "Plus the fights have been dull as of late… well aside from that odd Megid scent I thought I smelled."

"Ah right," Chris said, recalling the Charybdis incidents, "I wouldn't worry too much about it."

"You're right, I could care less about that group now," Desast replied, "Damn shame that Alchemists seem to be boring in how they work though."

"Yeah but they're still a pain in the ass," Chris said as she made her way to the door, "Well, hopefully I won't be too long."

"Don't worry, the neighborhood will keep me busy if I'm too bored," Desast remarked before inhaling slightly, "That said… when are you going to lose the sour smell?"

"What?" Chris asked as she turned back, "What are you…"

"Ever since you got back in the country I've noticed a sour stench when it comes to your mood," Desast pointed out as he stared directly at Chris, "Just what's been bothering you?"

"None of your business, as if you care," Chris huffed as she walked off, "And I'd appreciate it if people didn't keep trying to poke their noses into it!"

"Whatever you say," Desast scoffed as he went back to reading his Manga.

"Sorry, Mom but I couldn't find any food today either. It's okay though, we still have some bread from a couple days ago."

"Mom?"

"Mom?!"

…

"Mom…"

Despite the unpleasant memories she recalled, Saint-Germain was tirelessly efficient in her work. She had set up an alchemical work station in one of the smaller rooms of another hotel that the Bavarian Illuminati were staying in. Various liquids and chemicals shone in their beakers and containers, lighting up the darkened room. At the center was an alchemic circle etched into the ground, and at the back was a table that had a machine with tubes running through all the chemicals that were in use. Above the machine in a pink force field were three heart-like crystals.

'Lapis,' the Alchemist shifted her thoughts as she stared at the crystals with veins running through them in front of her, 'That which harnesses the power of alchemy to right the laws of this world rife with oppression.'

In another fairly spacious room within the hotel Tiki could only give an exasperated sigh while lying on the bed. She had been trying to read Manga to pass the time to no avail.

"What is it now?" Ryoga questioned through nearly gritted teeth as he was currently rhythmically tapping the chair he was sitting on.

"I'm so bored!" Tiki answered as she flipped through her manga, "if Adam doesn't come to see me soon, I'll get so bored I'll rust to death!"

"I'm not sure that's even possible…" Reika muttered as she watched Tiki flail like a child, having simply chosen to lean on a wall.

Prelati could only scoff, ready to go back to her tea.

"Hey, hey," Cagliostro looked over, "Do you know where Saint-Germain is?"

"She's busy with the final adjustments on our Faust Robes," Prelati answered, "Basically we owe a lot to the data Carol gathered. Also…" she stopped herself when she realized Cagliostro had walked past, soon standing, "Where are you going?"

"Ooh, ooh, don't tell me…" Tiki quickly sat up in an excited manner, "You're stealing a march on us?"

"So basically, you can't even wait for the Faust Robes to be finished?" Prelati asked with a fairly bored stare.

"Using protection feels wrong," Cagliostro answered simply before caressing herself, "I want to touch and feel those kids directly."

"I… was there not a better way to word that?" Reika questioned as she quickly turned towards her wall with a mortified expression, hanging her head as she used her arm to lean off of it.

"Skin to skin, that sounds like love!" Tiki spoke up as she held her face with both hands before going to lie down while caressing herself, "I wanna touch Adam too! I want him to have his way with me from head to toe!"

"I'm going with you as backup, no objections," Ryoga called out as he suddenly stood while marching towards Cagliostro, "Understood?"

Tiki was testing his patience and going under the excuse of giving some kind of backup would work, plus it would keep Reika out of the field. It was very much a win/win situation in his mind, for wildly different tonal reasons mind you, but it was enough for him to justify the decision.

"Eh?" Reika turned to look over, "Brother, are you sure? I can-"

"There's no need to worry," Ryoga gave a reassuring smile.

"Can't say I'm too happy having to share but if that's what you want to do," Cagliostro remarked before walking out of the room with Ryoga following after.

"Basically, he just wants to show off," Prelati remarked, though her real analysis was more along the lines of figuring that Ryoga was trying to keep Reika from confronting the Wielders.

Several armored trucks were traveling together, passing by military evacuations of civilians in the area. Inside one of the armored trucks was a mobile version of SONG's bridge, the Kamen Riders and Symphogear Wielders of SONG inside alongside the usual support staff.

Normally a mission out of town would warrant another split, but for their destination in particular they were practically forced to bring every member they had.

"Before the end of WW2, the military chose to relocate their headquarters here to Matsushiro," Genjuro explained as he kept his back turned to the others while monitoring the main screen they had, "It also housed the predecessor to the Special Disaster Response Unit: the secret Kazanari institute."

"The Kazanari institute…?" Hibiki spoke up as she, Chris, and a few others like Rintaro and Kanade glanced towards Tsubasa who was currently sitting with her arms crossed and eyes closed.

"As Japan was short on natural resources, they sought a means to turn the tides of war," Genjuro continued, "By researching the powers of Relics…"

"Such as the Ame no Habakiri, and those they received from their then-ally Germany: the Nehushtan armor, the Ichaival, and the Gungnir," Tsubasa spoke up as she opened her eyes.

"The documents we received from Val Verde are encrypted using the same method that Nazi Germany employed during the war," Ogawa explained, "We need the cipher machine held here to decrypt them."

"I can understand why the local security level would be raised to maximum for such an operation," Tsubasa admitted, noting just how many checks and procedures as well as precautions were in place, "But why would you burden the residents by ordering them to evacuate?"

"It is not the people we must protect but the country," Genjuro answered, though it sounded more like he was reciting words he had heard time and time again.

"Not the people?" Hibiki asked.

"That is what Kamakura thinks, at least," Genjuro replied.

"What an old-fashioned way of thinking," Yuri remarked.

"That, I'm sure we can agree on," Sophia finally spoke up while Genjuro gave a nod of agreement, "However this might just be the best course of action considering the target on our backs."

Of course upon arriving, the decryption of the cipher was something that wasn't the most exciting process. It was just a bunch of analysts standing over equipment or monitors and performing their duties as a fairly large machine began working as fast as it could.

"It's a complicated, difficult cipher, decrypting it will take time," Genjuro said as he and everyone began viewing the process. He then looked towards his left, "Tsubasa."

"After the briefing, I alongside a few of the other Riders and active Wielders will stand by and guard the area," Tsubasa said, not missing a beat.

"Um, what should we be doing?" Shirabe asked as she raised her hand.

It was a genuine question, since she and the others weren't sure why they were brought along when they couldn't feasibly fight.

When it came to how defenses would be handled, Hibiki, Miku, Chris, Touma, Rintaro, and Tsubasa were placed at various points all around in order to intercept any trespassers. Genjuro, Ogawa and Daishinji would stick to the SONG caravan alongside the area near the cipher lab to act as a more personal defense.

With Shirabe, Kirika and Maria however… their jobs landed them near some tomato fields in the company of Kanade and Yuri.

"9 o'clock, all clear," Shirabe stated, her and Kirika having binoculars they were using to see farther ahead as the others lazily followed from behind.

"12 o'clock, all…." Kirika trailed off only to let out a yell, soon pointing forward, "Civilian sighted, right there! Let's go, dess!"

"I understand you want to copy the others," Shirabe spoke up, instantly recognizing what her friend had spotted, "But that's…"

"Oh my god…" Kanade recognized it as well, covering her mouth as she had to hold her laughter.

"You need to evacuate!" Kirika called out as she hurried around the 'civilian' only to let out a shriek as what she had found was a scarecrow, "Yikes! It's not a person at all!"

"Scarecrows are quite realistic these days," Shirabe remarked with a sigh as she walked forward.

"Oh, so scarecrows do still see use in the modern day," Yuri remarked as he walked after Shirabe, "Quite splendid."

Maria however couldn't help but be distracted, "This is all we can do without more LiNKER."

"Hey, Yuri and I are here too," Kanade remarked as she gave a swift slap to Maria's back, giving a light grin at the yelp she heard, "It's not like they stuck us here for being weak, you know?"

"I suppose…" Maria trailed.

"We have to keep going and make sure no one's been left behind, dess!" Kiriika called out.

"You're overdoing it a bit, though," Maria said as she looked over.

"I have to keep myself occupied somehow," Kirika admitted before quickly patting her face a few times, soon turning to keep marching forward, "Alright, time to recommence the mission, dess-woah!"

Yuri had not been paying attention to the conversation, having been observing the scarecrow. Of course that was until he heard footsteps getting closer that didn't belong to anyone in their group. In a swift motion he had stepped forward, quickly grabbing Kirika by the collar and yanking her back as an older lady came into view.

"I have found the first bystander," he remarked as he let go of Kirika while making sure she kept steady.

"Wait, what?" Kanade asked in surprise as she began to hurry over with Maria not far behind, "There was actually someone left behind?"

"Oh hello dears," the woman gave a smile as she turned to greet them. Her outfit gave away that she was a farmer, having a basket on her back that was filled with the tomatoes that were from the field they were next to.

"A full-scale evacuation has been ordered," Maria said as she stepped forward, "You should leave right away."

"Of course, of course," the old lady said as she was clearly aware of what was going on. Soon turning to a couple of vines and picking a few tomatoes to show the group with a smile, "But I have the last tomato harvest of the year to see to."

Shirabe and Kirika couldn't help but marvel at how perfect the tomatoes looked.

"Those look wonderful, dess!" Kirika admitted.

"And they taste even better!" the old lady said as she held them out, "Give them a try."

It didn't take long for the two Wielders to receive a tomato, the old lady even giving some to Yuri and Kanade to try as well when she saw the two with just as curious looks.

"It's great dess!" Kirika called out, "You all should try yours too!"

"Alright," Shirabe said as she went to take a bite alongside the others, "You're right! It's nothing like the ones you get in supermarkets!"

"Whoa," Kanade couldn't help but widen her eyes at the flavor, "These really rock!"

"Exactly," the old lady remarked with a clearly proud expression, "You can taste the love put into it!"

"So this is love, huh?" Yuri asked as he held up the tomato, marveling at how a simple vegetable tasted so delicious, "How splendid…!"

"E-Excuse me, ma'am…" Maria spoke up as she held up a hand, feeling as though they were getting off track, "You really-"

"Yoo-hoo! Found you~!"

Everyone turned to see both Cagliostro and Ryoga nearby, the former turning to face them while the latter was already staring down the group.

"Oh cancel that, kind of…" Cagliostro said as she realized who they were dealing with, now showing clear disappointment, "Aside from Chicken and Comic Man it's just Team Dango again."

Shirabe's eyes could only widen in confusion, "Team…"

"…Dango?" Maria questioned, also confused.

"Who're you comparing to dango?!" Kirika questioned in near insult at being assigned the nickname.

"Just take a look at your hair, you mad?" Cagliostro remarked.

"I see you've done your research," Yuri said, not bothered by the insult.

"Hey at least have the decency to call me a rooster!" Kanade called out in annoyance as she gestured towards her hair, "I don't have these flowing locks for nothing!"

"That's what you're taking from all this?" Maria muttered.

"That said, it won't be any fun fighting some spoiled dango," Cagliostro admitted, "Even if a couple of you can put on a fight. Or can the three Wielders here use their Gears now?"

Shirabe went to reach for her pendant, "If that's what you want…"

"…then take a look at this, dess!" Kirika called out as she reached for hers as well.

"Yeah, how about no," Kanade said as she immediately stepped between the two while pushing their heads down, "Two on two is absolutely fine by me!"

"She's right!" Maria called out as she kept herself in front of the old lady, "We need to do everything we can within our means!"

"Thought so," Cagliostro said, "Out of meds which means you can't fight."

"Oh that's absolutely fine," Ryoga said as he finally spoke up, having Kaiji drawn out as he initiated his transformation, "Because Team Spoiled Dango as you so crudely put it are exactly the people I need purged here and now."

Normally Maria, Shirabe, and Kirika would speak up at that insult, but they alongside Kanade already realized what was going on. If their theories on Reika's true identity were correct, then that meant the Swordsman of Time wanted to cut away all loose ends to keep her as Reika.

"Knew it," Kanade said as she narrowed her eyes while preparing her transformation with Gekisō Gungnir, "Yuri!"

"There's no need to shout," Yuri said as he went to prepare his transformation with X-Swordman "Defeating one of Master Logos' Riders here and now would be a crucial blow."

The three Riders stared each other down before letting out their own shouts.

"Henshin!"

[KAIJI GYAKKAI! WARENAI! OCEAN HISTORY!]

[BATTOU! ETERNAL RELIC!]

[SAIKOU HAKKOU! GET ALL COLORS! X-SWORDMAN!]

In a flash and splash of water, Durendal stood before the two enhanced Kamen Riders before him, Falchion and Saikou striking their own stances with their spear and sword respectively.

"Not bad, but I think we'll need to be just a bit faster before everyone else gets here," Cagliostro admitted as she drew out a handful of Alca-Noise crystals, tossing them up and letting them land to form an army of Alca-Noise behind Durendal, "Time to take out the trash!"

Falchion let out a shout as she launched towards Durendal, recalling how he activated his Seiken's ability and not wanting to give him the chance. Saikou meanwhile leapt upwards while charging light within his blade.

Durendal let out a grunt as he was forced to shift his stance, catching the spearhead of Gungnir with his trident's tips, now locked in a clash with Falchion. Meanwhile Saikou had launched a slash of light downwards, hurtling past them and cutting into the Alca-Noise nearby.

Chris was currently near the top of a hill, quickly holding a hand to the earpiece she had once she heard radio communications pick up.

"Alca-Noise detected!" Sakuya reported, "Falchion and Saikou have engaged the enemy but we're picking up Jikokuken Kaiji and Ocean History, which means Durendal is likely engaging them! The location's at S1-6! There's about fifty!"

"Not good," Rintaro let out a light gasp.

"Roger!" Hibiki was heard next, "Heading there right away!"

"Leave it to me! I'm the closest!" Chris called out, taking the lead and running forward while leaping off the hill, drawing out her pendant.

"~Killter Ichaival tron~"

{SG-r02: Ichaival}

Immediately firing a missile she got on top of it, riding the rocket to boost towards the area of the fight. Upon arriving she saw that Maria, Kirika and Shirabe running away from the battle with the farmer they had met, the civilian on Maria's back. Of course, despite the two combatants that were already there, a few Alca-Noise had tried to get past and chase after the trio of untransformed Wielders.

"Maria we gotta go faster, dess!" Kirika urged.

"I hate having to turn my back on these things!" Shirabe admitted.

Maria meanwhile let out a frustrated grunt, while she didn't mind a tactical retreat she could only go so fast while the Alca-Noise kept gaining on them. At least until they were shot down by a hailstorm of energy arrows.

It didn't take long for the three to turn and look up, watching as Chris rode her rocket like a surfboard in the sky, raining down energy arrows all over to clear out the Alca-Noise horde.

"Backup has arrived!" Kirika called out as she pumped her fist, "She's so cool, dess!"

"We'll leave it to you!" Maria called out before looking at her friends, "Let's go!"

Durendal let out a light grunt as he pushed Gungnir down, "No you…!"

"Don't!" Falchion interrupted as she twisted the shaft of her spear while continuing to put pressure on it, trying to force it into a position to free it from Durendal's grip.

"Chris has arrived!" Aoi called out.

"She's engaged the enemy!" Sakuya added.

"The Alchemists are powerful and Durendal is no joke!" Genjuro reminded, "Try not to do anything reckless!"

"Yes, if possible try and stay cautious until backup arrives!" Sophia added.

"We would if we could!" Chris admitted as she now had to contend with Cagliostro launching energy blast after energy blast towards her.

"I missed you so much!" Cagliostro admitted as she kept hurling energy blasts forward, "Oh, the estrogen's boiling my brain!"

"Yeah, you guys are severely underestimating how stubborn these people are!" Falchion called out before letting out a gasp as Durendal managed to pull away, "Crap!"

"You won't keep me from my mission!" Durendal shouted as he pulled apart his Seiken just as Falchion went to rush forward for a stab.

[KAIJI MASSHOU!]

The area turned grayscale all around Durendal as he began to move to the side and away from the fighting, Falchion slowly but surely thrusting towards a now empty space. When it came to movement within this ability that only lasted a few seconds he could only walk. It was good for disorienting opponents in combat, but it did allow him to gain enough distance on his own. He swapped his Seiken's trident mode into its sword mode, adopting a running stance as everything faded back into color.

[SAI KAIJI!]

Durendal immediately bolted away, planning on chasing after Maria and the others.

"Wait, huh?!" Falchion let out a gasp as she ended up skewering the last Alca-Noise, it having avoided Chris' shots only to end up in Falchion's path thanks to Durendal. She then turned and hissed out, "That little-!"

"Let there be light!"

[FULL COLOR GOES TO LEG!]

Durendal heard something hurtling towards him and turned while shifting his body and backpedaling, Saikou in his Wonderful state kicking past and landing nearby in a kneeling stance. The two were quick to strike, Durendal swinging his blade down while Saikou fully reformed into X-Swordman while blocking the slash with his blade.

"You're not going anywhere!" Saikou called out as he kept Durendal in a lock, Falchion quickly closing in on the two to assist.

Chris meanwhile was still contending with Cagliostro, the Alchemist having managed to land a hit on the back of the missile the Wielder was riding on. An explosion occurred in mid-air but Chris managed to make a safe landing.

"Finally, you're close to me!" Cagliostro grinned playfully before spreading her arms out and unleashing beams of energy out from numerous alchemic circles.

Chris had flipped backwards several times to dodge them all, managing to get behind a raised mound of the ground to take cover. As the smoke cleared, it appeared Chris had reemerged while expanding her Armed Gear into a massive bow state, a large arrow ready to launch.

"You're in a hurry to pull out the big guns, I see," Cagliostro smirked before she dashed towards the side in a burst of speed, reappearing near Chris' right, "Big mistake, since I can slip right behind you."

A monkey screech was the response however as the smoke cleared with "Chris'" face being obscured by yellow monkey's mask that turned towards a baffled Cagliostro, it soon being revealed that her Gear was modified.

{Ride Change: Ichaival Sanjo!}

"You should be worried about your side," Chris spoke up as the smoke blew away to reveal her in her Ride Gear form, the dog and pheasant masked clones beside her as they all had their large bows primed and ready, "That said, you're right about having someone behind you."

Cagliostro felt a chill and quickly turned only to be too late as Hibiki was right behind her with her armed Gear. Her turning only allowed Hibiki a more susceptible target, the Wielder smashing her forearm into Cagliostro's gut. The Alchemist could only let out a gasp as she was sent tumbling across the ground, landing on her face.

"Unite the inner three harmonies with the outer three… and thus, my fist becomes the spear of six harmonies!" Hibiki called out as she was still in her stance, "Movies have all the answers!"

Cagliostro winced as she got up only to realize something large was behind her, "A wall?"

It wasn't a wall as looking up revealed it to be an enlarged sword with Tsubasa standing on top, "How boorish of you to call my blade a mere wall."

"They're here?" Durendal asked with a gasp as he was forced back by Saikou, quickly ducking underneath a swing from Falchion before raising his blade to block two more blades.

Saber and Espada had arrived as well, the duo deciding to head after Durendal to keep him distracted as Blades meanwhile moved into view to where Cagliostro could see him.

"Team Primary Colors x2 are all here, huh?" Cagliostro realized, clearly annoyed that they had lost the advantage entirely.

'You two have had enough fun playing maverick, you are to return at once understood?' Saint-Germain's voice echoed through Cagliostro and Durendal's minds via telepathy.

Cagliostro and Durendal could only let out small ticks of frustration as they realized not only were they outnumbered, but arguing with Saint-Germain was not an easy option. The two smashed teleportation crystals at their feet.

"I'll be attending the next ball in my lovely new clothes!" Cagliostro explained as she went to wave, "Please do look forward to it, bye~!"

"You all got lucky today," Durendal hissed out as he raised his sword, "But I will not give up so easily."

In a flash of light the two vanished, leaving the Riders and Wielders to wind down as the fight was now over.

Thankfully there was no other incident when it came to Maria, Kirika, and Shirabe dropping the elderly farmer at the evacuation center.

"Thank you, dear," the woman replied.

"You're welcome," Maria smiled as she began to pick herself up, having knelt down to let the woman off her back.

"I'll get you some water, dess!" Kirika called out before running off.

"Wait up, Kiri! I'll come too!" Shirabe called as she ran after her friend.

The woman could only chuckle, "They sure are full of beans."

"Are you hurt anywhere, ma'am?" Maria asked.

"I'm fine. But you must be tired, dear," the woman said, "I caused you so much trouble by sticking around."

"Not at all," Maria answered only to glance downwards, "If only we had the power to protect you, we could have avoided all of that."

"That reminds me," the woman said as she set down her basket before shuffling around in it, "Since you're here, you should try a tomato too!"

"I-I'm not much of a tomato person," Maria admitted, wanting to politely decline it. Despite the intention though, she couldn't say no to the smile the woman was giving her, "But okay. I'll just try a little bit."

The woman could only keep smiling as she watched Maria take a bite, taking note of the wide-eyed expression the Wielder was giving.

"It's sweet! Like a fruit!" Maria remarked.

"The harsher a tomato's environment, the sweeter it grows," the woman explained as she held up a finger, "Deny it water as long as possible, and it'll turn sweet all on its own."

Maria could only stare at the tomato she held, "Won't it shrivel up?"

"Being too soft on it actually does more harm than good," the woman answered, "The biggest harvests are the ones that have endured the harshest times."

"The harshest times…" Maria muttered.

"You know what I think?" the woman asked as she gently patted Maria on the leg, noticing the contemplative look, "People are just the same as tomatoes."

Daishinji was currently with Elfnein, the two in the main truck with the other support staff of SONG as they tried working on the decryption together.

"Commanders," Aoi spoke up, as a specific emblem popped up on her screen, "We've got a call from Kamakura."

"Wait, what?" Sophia asked, eyes widening.

"He came straight to me, huh?" Genjuro asked as he glanced away before shaking his head and staring directly at the main screen, "Put him on screen."

"Putting him on," Aoi nodded.

Any data being compiled faded away to reveal a main video screen, showcasing a man at a desk behind a screen that obscured most of his features. The most that one could tell was that he wore a brown traditional coat and had long white hair.

"You disappoint me," the figure spoke near instantly, "Not only did you let them breach the lockdown, you allowed them to escape with their lives."

"I have no excuse for these failures," Genjuro answered in a rather stiff tone.

"I allowed the use of the facilities to indebt the UN to us," the figure reminded, "However, I cannot allow a cornerstone of national security to be endangered for any reason."

"Of course," Genjuro said tensely.

"Do not let them lay foot on Yashima ever again," the figure responded before cutting the call before anything else could be said.

"He's not the boss for nothing," Genjuro let out a breath he had been holding.

"What an unreasonable man," Daishinji muttered before speaking up, "He's aware of what we're dealing with in regards to our enemies' movement, isn't he?"

"I doubt he cares about that," Sophia replied.

"The Alchemists pursued us all the way here to Matsushiro," Ogawa said, figuring he'd focus on a different side of the topic, "What could they be after?"

"Either the Val Verde documents, a showdown with the Riders and Wielders… or something even worse," Genjuro replied, trying to figure out which option it could be though there was another nagging thought, "And that's not counting the Megid out of the picture."

"True, they have been acting on their own," Sophia realized, "Do you think they could use our absence to turn more humans into Megid?"

"Doubtful, if anything I'm sure they'd gather here too," Genjuro admitted as he crossed his arms, the other members glancing at him as he said this, "Especially because…"

At the Megid base, Legeiel was currently walking around with clasped hands, glancing every now and again at his allies. The group had just gotten done observing the failed attack attempt that Cagliostro and Ryoga had tried.

"So what's the plan today?" he asked as he looked around, "SONG just decided to leave for Matsushiro, so clearly that means we can make plenty of Megid while they're gone."

"Do we even need to at this point?" Zooous asked.

"As opportune as this moment is, unfortunately we don't," Storious admitted as he kept grip of Charybdis' Alter Ride Book, staring at it intently, "In order for our plan to proceed smoothly… I'll need to infiltrate Matsushiro in order to take the hidden treasure it holds."

"Of all the luck…" Legeiel groaned, "That's a hotbed of resistance waiting to happen."

"Do you really need something that's held there?" Zooous asked.

"I've kept a keen eye on the locations of the Great Book's pieces through my long life," Storious replied as he glanced back, "While several were lost to time alongside most being claimed by the Logos Sector, the Japanese Military did personally receive one in particular that they chose to house within Matsushiro."

"Well you're out of luck," Legeiel remarked as he put his hands behind his head, "Just how do you expect to get past all those Riders and Wielders?"

"I've already thought of a plan," Storious smirked as he turned to face his allies while lowering his hand, "SONG will have their hands busy with the Alchemists, which means we just need to push the right distractions to keep their attention divided."

"Oh, I think I know where this is going…" Zooous trailed with a smirk.

"You two will be let loose against those that are being evacuated," Storious replied, "Draw SONG's attention further away from where they're supposed to be."

"Sounds good to me," Zooous said before letting out a yell, "All the better if that Swordsman of Water comes out. I don't want him to get too comfortable on me."

"That's the spirit," Storious smiled.

"The Swordsman of Fire is sure to come if people are in danger," Legeiel nodded, "So long as I get him, no one else matters."

"Oh I'm sure he'll appear," Storious said as he went to put a hand on his ally, wanting to make sure Legeiel was on board. He couldn't help but smile further when he saw the Phantom Beast leader grin at his words, "With that said, I'll leave you boys to it."

Master Logos was currently in his main room, the stacks of televisions playing various battles that the Riders and Wielders had been involved in. The earliest footage was from Val Verde, while the latest was from the attack that had just recently occurred.

"I do hope your plans have been going well," he said as he currently had a rotary telephone in his hand, the base sitting on a nightstand next to his chair, "Though there have been some hiccups."

"What matters is that we're on the right track," Adam said as he was on the other line, "I do wish to thank you for your support, as minor as it has been."

"I can only spare so much of course," Master Logos replied.

"You say that and yet I know you're holding onto quite a few Relics that could easily help bridge the power gap," Adam remarked, "As well as certain individuals who I'm sure would be more than willing to assist in tearing SONG apart and leaving us free to do as we please."

"The right pieces haven't moved in place yet," Master Logos replied as he drew out Amazing Siren to stare at it briefly before going to pocket it, "Once they have, I'll be able to proceed."

"Well let's hope these coming battles provide you with just that chance," Adam remarked, "Just as a reminder while we are allies, once my group achieves what we desire…"

"I am well aware," Master Logos said, though he kept a calm demeanor, "That said I do believe the next key piece of my plan is about to enter the fray."

"Oh?" Adam hummed, his curiosity peaked.

"Matsushiro contains a very dreadful piece of the Great Book, one that holds great but dangerous power," Master Logos replied, "I have no doubt with all of the combatants present there, as well as those who are on the sidelines waiting for a chance well… things might grow more interesting."

"Perhaps I'll take a gander then," Adam replied, "I never truly cared about the Great Book… but that doesn't mean I'm not curious about the inner workings of your 'plan'."

"So long as you're careful about it," Master Logos stressed.

Adam chuckled, "No promises."

With that simple response Adam hung up, Master Logos going to hang up the phone before the entire device vanished. The robed man simply clasped his hands together, a small smile crossing his face despite Adam's final remark.

More time had passed and night had fully fallen over the Kazanari Institute's facility. Of course with everyone stationed at different areas, there wasn't much to do except wait on the off chance the Alchemists, Enemy Riders, or even the Megid showed themselves.

But the latter were already making their move, Storious having snuck deep within the facility without issue. He had yet to sound an alarm and was dealing with every guard he could in a swift and timely manner. Footsteps caught his attention however, soon turning as he was met with the robed figure of Master Logos.

Master Logos quickly held up the book he was grasping, a red shine emanating from it as he blocked an attempted energy blast by Storious.

"Oh… what wonderful powers," Storious couldn't help but grow amused by this turn of events, before realizing where exactly he recognized the design of the cloak from, "I take it you're the current Master Logos?"

"And you are one who has existed back in the days of Finé, correct?" Master Logos asked.

Storious could only give a chuckle as he showed a pleasant smile, "Pleasure to meet you."

"Why have you come here?" Master Logos asked.

"I could ask the same question," Storious replied as he began to walk in a particular direction, "I'd love to stay and chat… but if you're here then you're well aware of the dangerous Book that I'm after."

"I suppose I am," Master Logos said, "That being said…"

Monitoring and decrypting continued as usual in SONG's lead truck, Sakuya and Aoi helping Elfnein as much as they could.

"Here you go," Shirabe said as she walked over with a cup of hot chocolate and handed it to Aoi, "It'll warm you up."

"Dess!" Kirika smiled.

"Thanks. It does feel warm," Aoi admitted as she took the cup, "I'm used to doing this the other way around."

Maria was on the other end of the control station, passing a mug to Sakuya while also giving one to Elfnein.

"Here's one for you too," she said with a smile.

"Thanks," Elfnein nodded.

"Is that your research? How's it going?" Maria asked, though noticed their alchemist ally had gone silent, soon seeing ID information about the other children that were under the FIS' experiments, "Wait, is this what I think it is?"

"Yes. I think we'll need it if we want to have the LiNKER ready as soon as possible," Elfnein admitted.

"That brings back some horrible memories," Maria admitted in a sober manner, "None of us orphans had been chosen by Finé, so they used us as guinea pigs in their experiments to maximize sync rate… Mom…"

Shirabe and Kirika glanced at each other though they were quick to turn their attention to the alarm suddenly picking something up.

"No way," Aoi let out a light gasp as she was trying to confirm what she was reading, "We're getting a strong signal for a Megid, triangulating now!"

"I'll inform the Commander, Ogawa, Rintaro, and Daishinji!" Sakuya spoke up as he began to bring up communications, "Their locations are closer to the center than the others-huh?!" he let out a gasp, "We're now detecting Alca-Noise too!"

"A two-pronged attack…?" Maria questioned, "This kind of timing…"

"It's either a coincidence, or coordinated," Shirabe grimaced.

"Both are just as bad, dess!" Kirika admitted.

"The Alca-Noise are moving from Matsushiro 3rd Elementary toward the Kazanari Institution!" Aoi spoke up, "It's looking like the Megid signal is in the same area, closer to where the evacuation stations are!"

"That's where we took the tomato lady, dess!" Kirika realized.

Shirabe looked over, "Maria!"

"Right," Maria nodded as the three began to move out.

"You mustn't!" Elfnein called out in worry, "You've got no LiNKER!"

Sophia was entering the truck again, accidentally blocking the three benched Wielders from leaving, "Where are you three going in such a hurry?"

"The Riders and Wielders can take care of the enemy," Maria explained, "We'll help the civilians evacuate."

"Fine," Sophia said, realizing they'd get nowhere by arguing and stepped aside, "Just be safe and don't do anything reckless."

"Of course," Maria nodded as she and the others hurried out.

Touma was further than the others when it came to his position within the Kazanari Institute. He was rushing forward to meet with them, already prepping his transformation only to let out a gasp when he bumped into a guard.

"Ah sorry," Touma let out a gasp, "Listen, you need to-"

"Ah, you're one of the special security guards, right?" the officer asked, having oddly curly hair for a guard though Touma didn't seem to pay that any mind, "We've got a breach by a monster, the attack going on right now is simply a distraction."

"What?" Touma asked as the guard nodded, "Lead the way then."

The guard gave another nod, hurrying off in a certain direction with Touma following after, the Rider of Fire not knowing the guard had a grin crossing his lips.

Zooous let out a yell, having already transformed as he was peppered with bullets by the soldiers stationed at the evacuation area. Sparks flew but the Beast King leader wasn't bothered by them at all.

"Come on!" he yelled out as he drew his blades and kept approaching, "Bring out the Kamen Riders!"

Sparks suddenly flew in front of him, the power behind them causing the Megid Leader to back away and turn towards the source.

"You should be careful what you ask for," Slash said as he had his gun prepped and ready, Kenzan nearby with drawn blades.

"That's right!" Buster's voice called out, the Megid following it to see both him and Blades in King Lion Dai Senki from behind, "Whatever you plan to do here, we'll stop you!"

"Took you all long enough," Zooous scoffed as he prepared his blades, "It's been a while, Swordsman of Water."

"Zooous…" Blades hissed out as he kept his blade steady, "Just why are you here?"

"You all have been getting it too easy," Zooous replied, lying entirely but needing to keep up appearances, "That's why I decided to show up and cause some trouble!"

Within the shadows of the area, Legeiel was currently scoping the situation out in his human form. He wasn't about to rush forward like Zooous was who was attracting all the attention.

"Idiot, good thing I waited," Legeiel remarked as he turned away, planning on heading for the Kazanari Institution since that was likely where Touma was, "The Swordsman of Fire's a no show here…"

When it came to the remaining Riders and Wielders, the six were all gathered up and transformed to stare down the Alca-Noise at one of the pathways that led to the Kazanari Institute. Hibiki, Tsubasa, and Chris had gone to start with their base forms. While Falchion decided to keep her base form, Espada was in Lamp do Hedgehog while Saikou simply defaulted to X-Swordman.

"Hey, Bookworm isn't here yet?" Chris asked as she glanced around, "He should have come by now."

"I don't think he's late on purpose," Espada said, "Something must be going on."

"I don't think they're going to wait for us though," Falchion admitted as she looked at the crowd in front of them, "Should some of us…"

"Touma can handle himself," Saikou said, trying to reassure the others, "We should focus on this battle."

"This many though…" Hibiki trailed, realizing the Alchemists were serious about this assault.

"You're right," Tsubasa replied, "We'll need to cut through them in a flash and then assess the situation from there."

"Roger!"

"Ignite Module! Bakken!"

{Dáinsleif}

With the trio of Wielders taking their strongest forms, the battle began as they and the Riders charged forward. Chris was currently dealing with whatever Alca-Noise had taken to the air, Saikou slashing through any that were trying to get near her in order to keep their anti-air support going strong. Tsubasa and Falchion stood side by side, the duo slashing through whatever Alca-Noise they could. Hibiki meanwhile sent a kick that slammed one into several others, soon leaping up and flipping back as Espada was behind her, the Rider unleashing electrified needles outwards that pierced the Alca-Noise.

"He's in there," the guard pointed towards an isolated facility that had its door busted down.

"Thanks," Touma said as he prepared his Swordriver alongside Dragonic Knight, "You should get going, I'll handle this."

"Right, I'll make sure everyone else gets to safety," the guard said before hurrying off, quickly rounding a corner and disappearing out of sight.

"Alright," Touma said, ready to enter the facility when he heard a laugh, "Huh?"

"There you are, Saber!" Legeiel called out as he stood on top of a nearby building in the facility before transforming into his Phantom Beast state, "I'm going to smash you to smithereens!"

"Legeiel," Touma narrowed his eyes, "Why are you here?"

"It's obvious," Legeiel said before letting out a laugh as he leapt off from where he was while raising his blade up high, "I'm here to strike you down!"

"Fine then," Touma called out as he immediately drew out Rekka, unleashing a cross slash to clash with Legeiel's blade as he backed away, "Henshin!"

[REKKA BATTOU! DON'T MISS IT! DRAGONIC KNIGHT!]

Legeiel let out a yell as he pushed back, the flaming cross slash hurrying back towards Touma who gained the sterling silver armoring of Dragonic Knight. The Phantom Beast leader then landed, raising his sword as he let out a yell.

Saber shouted in tandem, slashing with Rekka as he clashed blades with Legeiel. He then managed to shift Legeiel's away slightly before slamming his fist into the Megid's face.

[SPICY!]

Legeiel let out a gasp as he staggered back, quickly stabbing his blade into the ground and summoning large chunks of rock to launch towards Saber.

The Rider let out a light yelp as he backed away, dodging while slashing and punching away the projectiles as best he could.

Of course as the two battled, the perpetrator that had broken into the nearby entrance had emerged. It was Storious, the Story Megid Leader giving a satisfied smirk as he held a black book with claw marks and bone decorations alongside a bone-like spine.

"Wait, Storious…?" Saber asked as he glanced away after dodging back from a few bursts of fire, "What are you doing here?!"

"I could ask the same of you," Storious admitted with a light glare, not liking that the Swordsman of Fire had been in the area, especially after Master Logos had simply stood aside. He then held up the book that he had taken, "But if you must know, I'm here for this dangerous piece of the Great Book, given to this facility a long time ago for study."

"If that's the case, then I can't let you get away with it!" Saber called out as he aimed his blade towards Storious.

"Hey, don't you dare ignore me!" Legeiel spat out as he stepped forward.

"Wait a minute Legeiel," Storious held up a hand as he transformed into his more monstrous state, "Allow me to give our Rider friend a demonstration of the power we now wield."

Upon opening the book, it began to erupt with a purple aura as the lettering flashed brightly. Erupting from the center was a long blue snake-like tendril with a three pronged claw at the end, a purple aura surrounding it as it reached high into the sky.

Buster yelled out as he slashed downwards against Zooous who crossed blades to block his strike. With a mighty shout he pushed Zooous' blades down, gathering all his strength. Of course his tactic wasn't to disarm but distract the Megid.

Slash shot at the Megid's back while Kenzan unleashed Hayate in its shuriken formation, the duo peppering Zooous with attacks.

Zooous let out a yell as he let go of his weapons while yelling further, his yells turning to roars as energy slashes began erupting out from his body. The assault managed to force Buster backwards who suddenly hunched forward.

This was all so Blades could use him as a kickstand, the Swordsman of Water unleashing water filled cannon blasts from his shoulders while dropping down. The attack managed to distract Zooous, allowing him to slash and force the Megid leader back.

"Not bad!" Zooous called out before suddenly turning towards the side, "What?"

The other Riders, civilians, and soldiers there also turned when they saw a glowing spot in the distance. Everyone could only stare in slight awe and fear as the tendril that Storious had unleashed could be seen from where they were.

"What's that?" Blades questioned.

"This feeling…" Slash shivered, "What even?"

"Is it…?" Buster muttered.

Of course when it came to viewing what Storious had unleashed, the other Riders and Wielders could only stop and stare at what was going on. Even the Alca-Noise seemed to react, briefly pausing and turning towards the tendril.

"What?" Hibiki said before wincing slightly as she felt a light pain in her chest, "Huh? What was…?"

"This feeling…" a familiar voice spoke up as a faint dragon's roar was heard.

"Eh?" Hibiki glanced downwards, "Bahamut?"

"That's not good," Espada admitted with a shiver, "Some of us need to break off."

"Unfortunately I think we have bigger issues," Saikou said as he turned towards one of the buildings nearby, taking note of the Alchemists that had been watching them the entire time, "Like them."

"This dreadful presence…" Saint-Germain muttered as she stared at the tendril, watching it snake its way back down. She then looked down at the Riders and Wielders who had taken notice of them, "Regardless, we're to finish this up as quickly as we can, understood?"

"Basically, we're on a time limit," Prelati remarked, also noting the tendril's presence, "Fine."

"Sounds fine by me too, makes it more exciting," Cagliostro smirked, seemingly brushing off the ill omen before them, "We've been waiting for them to unsheathe and they have for a while now so we're good to go."

"Basically, that Ignite module is a fine piece of work," Prelati added.

"Indeed," Saint-Germain said as she pulled out a pistol, having a heart-shaped crystal embedded within it, "That's why we hold these glimmering red keys to victory."

Cagliostro brought out a ring that held the same gem, placing it on her left hand's middle finger. Prelati meanwhile drew out a kendama from her frog plush. The three wasted no time in triggering their items, energy shining out as they began their own transformations.

Tsubasa was quick to act, not wanting to give their opponents an opening to strike. Especially when it came to the dreadful energy she had just witnessed and felt jabbing at her chest. Her leg blades extended outwards, igniting into flames that launched her further as she split her blade into two, blue flames igniting as she launched directly towards the Alchemists.

{Soaring Phoenix's Slash}

She had slashed down against a barrier that had been formed as a result of the transformation. Prelati had donned a full bodysuit with a red cloak covering her body, with Cagliostro having a yellow and purple outfit that accentuated her body, while Saint-Germain held an armored look, having blue-white armoring with blue accents, the key feature all three sharing were gold decorations all over. As their transformations completed a light began to shine forth from the barrier, a light that began to shine on Tsubasa's Ignite form as well…

The tendril had slammed downwards after writhing in the air long enough, unleashing a burst of energy that knocked both Megid Leaders and Saber backwards. The result had also closed the book shut, flinging it from Storious' grip as it clattered between the three of them.

"I didn't expect it to be that strong," Storious hissed out.

Legeiel let out a light growl, "I thought you knew a lot about this book! How is it that this slipped by you?!"

"I have not handled this power directly," Storious let out a light hiss, "But I know of its dangerous power… I just underestimated it."

"Sorry to say but I'm not letting you keep your hands on that!" Saber shouted as he ran forward and grasped the book, the object releasing a quiet pulse as he held it up, "I'll fight you both off on my own if I have to!"

"The only one you have to fight is me!" Legeiel called out as he ran towards Saber, blade raised.

As if sensing the danger the claw marks on the book shined a bright purple, it suddenly opening up as Saber glanced down at the movement. He let out a gasp as the writing in the book shined yellow and expanded outwards, his eyes moving on their own as he was forced to read every last bit of the pages before him.

He felt his heart race as he found his mind swallowed by a black and blue darkness, an intense sadness flowing over him as he could barely make out what looked to be a boy amidst the darkness he was witnessing.

The tendril launched outwards from the book and smacked Legeiel away, seemingly defending Saber… at least until it began to wrap around the Rider. The Rider of Fire could only yell out as he felt excruciating sadness and pain, his body feeling like it was being crushed and overwhelmed by these negative feelings.

His yells began to distort before they turned to gasps as Dragonic Knight's armor was torn apart by dark electrical energy, reverting the Rider back to his civilian state.

Touma hunched over, the dangerous book turning into black smoke and suddenly reforming into a new upgrade styled Ride Book. It was bulky and black at its core, yet somewhat hollow as if it could fit something else inside of it. There were light blue elements to it, having a light blue claw-like molding at the top of the cover. A swirling vortex could be seen on the cover, a blue ethereal bone-like dragon hovering over it with the title at the very top…

[PRIMITIVE DRAGON!]

Legeiel let out a gasp as he began to pick himself up, Storious simply watching and humming in interest at what had just happened.

Touma's eyes shined a deep blue, yet they looked to have lost most of the shine from them. They were dull, and his stare was one of being in a trance more than being aware of what he was doing.

A distorted cord alongside crunching could be heard as he crudely opened up the Ride Book, revealing a slot for one of the smaller Ride Books. There was also what looked to be the palm of a hand covering a more bestial themed Saber. He then drew out Brave Dragon and slotted it in.

[BRAVE DRAGON! GET!]

Primitive Dragon was then slotted onto the God Beast portion of the Swordriver, Touma grasping at Rekka with an underhanded grip as a large version of Primitive Dragon's Ride Book crashed down behind him. It opened up, revealing a large version of Brave Dragon within it as well.

Touma rolled his neck, cracking being heard as he let out a raspy breath, "Henshin…"

[REKKA BATTOU!]

Drawing out Rekka he raised his arm and let the blade hang downwards, the drawing of the sword causing the hand to clutch the Brave Dragon Ride Book to keep it from opening up.

[BAKI! BOKI! BONE! GAKI! GOKI! BONE!]

A transparent fiery version of Saber Brave Dragon formed over Touma as a bone-like dragon emerged from behind the giant Ride Book, lurching forward and grasping the young man in its clutches. It then moved inwards, becoming armor that warped Saber's base appearance even further.

The bodysuit was black like with Dragon Knight, though it was less armored than it. The armoring was light blue, covering the arms and legs in bone-like armor though covering less than Dragonic Knight had. He had a black armored chest that was fairly plain with a book themed left shoulder piece. Covering most of the chest was a three pronged bone-like claw with a dragon's head as the right shoulder. Printed on the left half of the chest and shoulder however was Brave Dragon's cover imagery and title. Due to this Ride Book not extending outwards, the coattail was simply running down the right side like it normally would for Brave Dragon.

[PRIMITIVE DRAGON!]

The helmet meanwhile matched the rest, having a bone-like and bestial appearance, being black with a light blue mask, the only red being thin lines marking the front of the visor. Oddly enough the helmet seemed to hold a resemblance to Ultimate Bahamut's.

"RAAAAGH!"

Saber let out a distorted yell as he hunched forward before leaning back and spreading his arms out, unleashing a shockwave that tore through the area and caused explosions all around. Letting out another breath he adopted a more hunched beast-like state, keeping the Kaenken Rekka in a reverse grip stance.

Storious could only stare at the beast before him in near awe, letting out a shiver at the dreadful presence he was feeling.

"Is that book supposed to scare me?!" Legeiel questioned as he charged forward.

Saber switched Rekka's grip, gripping it by the blade in his left hand while grabbing out with his right. He managed to lift Legeiel up before shoving the Megid leader away.

Legeiel let out a light gasp as he was sent rolling, getting up only to get assaulted by Saber. There was no strategy behind the Rider's attacks anymore, Saber simply acting like a rabid human-shaped beast that occasionally swung Kaenken Rekka and caused sparks to fly. Legeiel tried to stab at Saber only for his blade to get caught. Sparks flew after he was reeled in and subjected to more wild and improper swings from Saber.

Saber let out a wild yell as he swung his leg to trip Legeiel up and force the Megid to the ground. He then leapt up into the air while stabbing down with Rekka, still holding it by the blade.

Legeiel let out a yell as he managed to push himself into a roll, managing to avoid Saber stabbing into the ground and skewering him, "What in the world? Is this even the Swordsman of Fire anymore?"

"Legeiel," Storious said as he walked over, his tone immediately changing as he gathered energy in his blade, "This form is far too dangerous."

The two watched as Saber began to crouch forward and walk towards them. Storious' solution was immediately launching a slash of energy that engulfed the Rider in an explosion. Except just like a cockroach having a shoe thrown at it, Saber sped up and out of the smoke towards the two at high speeds.

"RAAAAGH!"

Unfortunately on the other side of battle, things had immediately fallen apart the second Tsubasa had clashed with the Alchemists' barrier. Her Gear had shined a bright white before she was repelled with great force, having been forced back into her base form.

The trio of Saint-Germain, Cagliostro, and Prelati had donned their own Faust Robes. Chris' attempts at trying to overwhelm them were met with indifference when Prelati brought out a giant kendama to deflect her arsenal. It was enough for Cagliostro to launch a counterattack which sealed Chris' fate. The Ichaival Wielder had attempted to use her reflectors against a beam conjured via the Faust Robe but even her Ignite form destabilized and was forced to disengage as she was smashed into a nearby wall.

"Crap, it hit her too?!" Falchion questioned as she had gone to check on Tsubasa while dealing with any stray Alca-Noise due to them still being in the area, "Hey Basa, are you with me?!"

"I'm… alive… but... my Gear…" Tsubasa let out pained gasps only to feel a comforting hand on her shoulder, "Kanade…?"

"Don't worry, I'm here," Falchion said.

Hibiki meanwhile turned in shock at seeing Chris get taken out, "Chris!"

Saint-Germain dropped down to deal with Hibiki next only to pause when she felt the dreadful presence even more than before, "This is… no it can't…" she took aim at Hibiki only to quickly dodge out of the way of electrified needles and slashes of light, bringing out a barrier to block more, "I see you're not willing to make this easy."

Espada and Saikou quickly leapt between Saint-Germain and Hibiki, the two getting back to back however as they realized they'd likely have to defend their friend against Prelati and Cagliostro as well. They needed all their eyes available as Espada drew out Golden Shinjukyo to try and even the situation out.

"Hibiki…!" Bahamut's voice spoke up in an almost hurried fashion, "This presence…! You need to dismiss Ignite! We need to fight together, now!"

"I thought I heard you Bahamut," Hibiki quickly drew out Ultimate Bahamut in surprise as her Ignite transformation dismissed herself, soon staring at the Ride Book, "But what's wrong?"

"What?" Saint-Germain lowered her weapon at this before her head suddenly jolted as a nearby wall was smashed through, catching everyone's attention, "This is…!"

"RAAHHHHH!"

Legeiel and Storious were thrown into view, Saber Primitive Dragon soon leaping into view as he had followed after them.

"What in the hell…?" Falchion questioned as she pulled away from Tsubasa who barely managed to turn towards the yells.

"The bookworm…?" Chris winced as she barely lifted her head up.

"Touma…?" Hibiki's eyes widened, ignoring the hot sensation that Ultimate Bahamut was giving off as the only response to her words was more rabid yelling, "Touma?!"

"Touma, what's wrong?!" Espada asked also got no response, only watching as her friend let out inhuman snarls towards the Megid.

"This aura… he's gone into a rampage," Saikou realized almost instantly, "Right now, he's lost all sanity!"

Espada turned in shock, "What?!"

"This rampaging beast…" Saint-Germain narrowed her eyes as brief memories of men in armor overwhelmed by a burning blue dragon flashed through her mind, "These Faust Robes formed by lapis philosophorum, the pinnacle of alchemy, uniting the philosophers stone and human body… will fell this beast just like it did Ignite!"

"True, we used the data from the Château de Tiffauges' analysis of world's composition after all," Prelati remarked, "Basically, it should be able to deal with him with ease like the others."

"Wait a minute!" Hibiki called out when she heard those words.

Bahamut let out a low growl, "Hibiki!"

Lightning struck before another word could get out, hitting nearby every active combatant as they were forced to pause.

"You all can wait your damn turn!" Legeiel called out in a clearly angered tone with his sword raised while glancing side to side, "My fight isn't over yet!"

[GRAPPU HISSATSU DOKUHA!]

Saber had slotted Rekka back into the Swordriver before slamming Primitive Dragon's Ride Book with his left fist. Soon spreading his arms forward as black and blue energy began to gather.

"This is bad," Storious let out a gasp as he staggered back and moved towards his ally, "We have to leave!"

"Like hell I will!" Legeiel called out near desperately as he began to charge up multiple elements in his blade while holding the flat of it forward, "I can take that thing straight on!"

With those words and two slashes, he sent lightning bolts, fireballs, razor sharp winds, ice blasts, and chunks of rock all hurtling towards Saber.

[REKKA BATTOU! CRASH HISSATSU GIRI!]

All it took was a tendril launching out of the Ride Book to snake forward and smash through all of the elemental attacks in an instant. It grabbed Legeiel and reeled the Megid in as Rekka shined a sickly blue coloration, Saber slashing forward with a reverse grip as claw-like energy erupted from the slash. Of course that wasn't all as a shockwave of black and blue erupted outwards as well, expanding in a circle that shot through the entire area.

Legeiel was blown away, his monstrous form exploding as he was forced out of his transformed state. Storious had attempted to defend himself but ended up receiving the same fate.

The trio of Alchemists quickly brought up barriers, their Faust Robes shining bright as they were able to dispel the tainted energy that came their way.

Most of the Riders were unlucky, Falchion quickly getting between Tsubasa and the blast while spreading her wings. Saikou had stepped in front of Espada while unleashing his own light outwards while Hibiki ran towards Chris to shield her. Ultimate Bahamut however leapt out from Hibiki's hand, entering his spectral state as he crossed his arms to brace against the explosion.

Falchion let out a yell as she burst apart into flames, Yuri shouting before bursting into light at the same time once he was hit. Kyomu and Eternal Phoenix fell to the floor near Tsubasa who desperately went to reach for them, Espada being blown back as Saikou's Seiken form and X-Swordman clattered near her.

Bahamut meanwhile let out a roar while spreading his arms forward. This managed to disperse the energy hurtling towards Hibiki and Chris, protecting them as he hunched over in a tired state. His spectral form dissipated as the Ride Book launched back and went to nestle itself into Hibiki's hand.

Saber let out a few hitched gasps as he began to come to a standstill, the transformation suddenly dismissing itself. Touma dropped forward, his consciousness fading as he passed out near instantly.

Espada let out a gasp as her head jolted towards her fallen friend, "TOUMA!"

"He's at his limit, huh?" Saint-Germain asked before raising her gun to aim it at the unconscious Rider, "Then…!"

"Wait a minute!" Hibiki shouted as she launched away from Chris, flipping over Saint-Germain and landing crouched near her unconscious friend as she held an arm out, "I won't let you hurt him!"

Saint-Germain stared Hibiki down, unwavering, "Move."

"No," Hibiki said as she narrowed her eyes, gripping Ultimate Bahamut tightly as she stood. She also noted how Saint-Germain's aim had adjusted to keep the gun trained on her, "If you intend to use that power to hurt others, I'll stop you."

"Hurt others?" Saint-Germain repeated, "Please. All we wish for is to free mankind. We seek to break the chains of oppression."

"Then why are you trying to kill Touma?!" Espada questioned as she got up while eyeing the situation, realizing just how bad it was.

"He is a danger to the world now that he wields that dreadful power," Saint-Germain answered as she kept her aim, "That is all the reason I need."

"He's not dangerous!" Hibiki shouted as she kept where she was, soon deciding to shift the conversation to hopefully distract her opponent, "You want to free mankind, right? If it's for the good of others, then why can't we work together?"

"Hibiki…" Espada muttered before wincing slightly as a bright light high up began to catch her attention, "Huh?"

"Work together?" Saint-Germain asked.

"Saint-Germain," Cagliostro said as she looked over, "Let's fini-" she had also caught what Espada had noticed, a bright light that was illuminating the night sky as if it were the sun itself, "That light-!"

Ryoga was currently enjoying some tea courtesy of Reika, the two back at the hotel the Alchemists were staying at. It had been decided that the Riders weren't needed for this next phase, as Saint-Germain wanted no outside assistance when it came to testing the Faust Robes.

The two however jumped slightly when they heard Tiki perk up.

The Autoscorer could only give a big grin, "I can feel it in my heart!"

"Eh?" Reika looked over, "What does that…?"

"Wait a minute," Ryoga set his cup down as he recalled Tiki's actions and reactions prior only to realize exactly what this meant, "She can't possibly mean that he's…!"

High above the battleground within the Kazanari Institute was a man in a white sharp suit and fedora, holding long flowing indigo hair and red eyes. In his palm was an orb of fire that exuded energy and light to an absurd degree.

"Oh dear…" Storious let out a grunt as he finally picked himself up, staggering over to Legeiel and grabbing onto his currently unconscious ally, "So he's finally shown his face."

Espada could only mutter as she shivered, "Who?"

"Lodgemaster Adam Weishaupt!" Saint-Germain shouted as she looked upwards, "Why are you here?!"

Adam simply responded with a smirk, tossing his hat away as the orb grew larger and brighter. This resulted in his clothes burning away entirely.

"What is this exhibition?" Prelati questioned.

"Chrysopoeia, my dear, I'm transmuting gold!" Adam answered confidently before raising his arm as the orb increased in size in an instant, a massive inferno now about the battlefield, "We're alchemists, are we not?!"

Hibiki and Espada could only stare up in shock at the blazing inferno before them, the two quickly looking at each other as they realized that only two of them were active while the rest were knocked out or incapacitated. That also wasn't considering the fact that despite the Alca-Noise having stopped, there were still several on stand-by in the area that hadn't been taken care of thanks to the Alchemists interrupting them.

"He's using alchemy… to trigger nuclear fusion?!" Elfnein called out in realization as she had been monitoring the situation at hand, her shock of Ignite losing to the Faust Robes fading once this new problem arose.

"In addition to the new enemy combatant, we're also detecting Airgetlam, Shul Shagana, and Igalima on the field!" Sakuya reported in worry.

Sophia's eyes widened at the news, "They transformed?!"

"They're fighting without LiNKER and Ignite is active for them as well!" Aoi added, "The strain is tearing their bodies apart!"

"You three reckless girls…" Sophia muttered before she clasped her hands in prayer, realizing that despite the dangers the situation was desperate enough since the other Riders were too far away, "Please… be safe!"

"Hey, what's going on?" Buster called out as he had quickly got on the communications line once he and the other Riders had seen the display, "What is that light?!"

Maria, Kirika and Shirabe were charging straight into the lion's den when it came to the situation at hand. The plan was simple: clear the path of the remaining Alca-Noise and then try and get everyone out before getting engulfed by the attack.

Saint-Germain gritted her teeth as she drew out a teleportation crystal, "Get out before you get caught in the Lodgemaster's chrysopoeia!"

"This will not be the end, no matter how much you want it to be Adam," Storious narrowed his eyes at the inferno in the sky before vanishing alongside Legeiel.

At the same time the Alchemists had smashed their crystals onto the ground, transporting away in quick bursts of energy.

"Hibiki, get Touma!" Espada called out as she went to hurry towards Chris, her friend doing as she asked, "I'm not sure how strong that is but-"

"The fireball's estimated destructive power is ten megatons!" Sakuya called out.

Sophia gasped, "The same as the Tunguska event?!"

Espada stumbled when she heard the radio chatter, glancing back in shock as she recognized the terms used. She began to breathe heavily but shook it off as she hurried to Chris only to pause when she saw Kirika hurry over.

"I've got this, dess!" Kirika shouted as she went to lift Chris up.

"Just help Touma!" Shirabe added as she went to help Tsubasa up, the blue sword Wielder still holding onto Kyomu and Eternal Phoenix.

"Alright," Espada nodded before hurrying over to help Hibiki with Touma, "But this is reckless you know!"

Maria meanwhile ran forward and went to grasp Saikou alongside X-Swordman, staring at them before looking up at the fireball before her.

"I'll save you all, even if it destroys me!" she called out in defiance as a blue aura began to form around her and what she was grasping even if she wasn't aware of it herself.

Saikou let out a gasp as the eyes of his sword form flashed, "Eh? What is going on?"

"Yuri, you're awake?" Maria asked.

"I am now, but…" Saikou was in position to see what exactly was going on and let out a light gasp, "Maria, we must combine our powers! Utilize your Ride Gear feature! Everyone else needs to gather near her now!"

The remaining active Rider and Wielders all nodded as they went to converge towards Maria and Saikou with their unconscious and incapacitated allies.

Maria nodded as she tossed X-Swordman up into the air, fighting against the pain she was feeling as she locked Saikou onto the back of her left gauntlet. She then caught the Ride Book and held it over her pendant as a chime was heard.

{Wonder Ride Sync}

Her left gauntlet opened up, allowing her to slot X-Swordman into place as her armor closed up around it. Soon enough comic panels began manifesting into some of the armor pieces that Saikou would wear, latching onto Maria as the aura she was exuding shined even further. It wasn't long before the others gathered behind her, most wondering what exactly the two's plan was.

Adam didn't seem to care for the display he was seeing, giving a grin as he tossed the fireball down. It impacted against the ground as a wall of flames shot towards the group in a near instant.

Maria however let out a defiant yell as she held her left fist up as if bracing by holding her gauntlet forward. Saikou matched her yell as well, the Seiken's eyes shining brightly.

"…LET THERE BE LIGHT!"

Amidst the inferno of an explosion hurtling towards the Riders and Wielders, a warm light began to engulf them all just before it reached them.

As the explosion finally died down, the reveal of what had occurred was a disturbing sight to behold. The entire Kazanari Institute was erased from existence as the only thing left in its place was a massive smoldering crater. Adam still stood in the air, observing the crater while opening his palm only to reveal a few drops of gold.

"Oh? Is that all it amounted to?" he couldn't stop himself from chuckling before breaking into laughter over the display of destruction he had caused, his laugh echoing in the night sky, "Life's so damn cheap!"

To Be Continued…

Author's Note: And here he is, the monstrous power-up I know quite a few people have been waiting for, Primitive Dragon! I always did enjoy the Primitive Dragon Arc in Saber, so it was really fun to finally get started on it here. When first drafting where power-ups would go, I instantly knew that Primitive Dragon's book had to be at the Kazanari Institute in Matsushiro, because of course it would be. And I also figured, what better way to illustrate things have gone to hell than both the Lapis Faust Robes and Primitive Dragon debuting at the exact same time. With that said, thanks for reading and I'll see you all next time.