Sympho-Saber: Song of Swords

AXZ:EP05 – Last Chance to Fight Onwards

Just outside of the edge of the smoldering crater that was once the Kazanari Institution were the Riders and Wielders.

Tsubasa had managed to recover, keeping hold of Kanade's Seiken and Ride Book as the Phoenix Rider had yet to immediately reform.

Chris meanwhile let out a groan as she began to pick herself up, "What…" she trailed before her eyes widened at the destruction before her, "…happened here?"

"The Kazanari Institution HQ… was utterly annihilated," Tsubasa managed to gasp out, as if coming to terms with what she had just witnessed.

"Hey," Chris finally noticed what Tsubasa was holding onto, "Is she going to be alright?"

"She should be, from what I was barely able to gather she protected me from a blast," Tsubasa said as she held up the items only to quickly let go of them when they grew hotter, "There we go."

The Mumeiken Kyomu and Eternal Phoenix shined brightly and before clattering against the ground reformed into Kanade who was now holding both.

"Jeez, that new form Touma had packed one hell of a punch," Kanade admitted as she began to stretch her neck, "Plus it's been a while since I've had to revive…"

"Crap, that's right," Chris let out a gasp as she looked around, "What the hell happened to the bookworm?"

"We're not sure," Espada's voice was heard as the three looked over to see her and Hibiki kneeling near and unconscious Touma. She then looked at the Primitive Dragon Ride Book which was nearby, "But something tells me it has to do with this new Ride Book."

"That has to be it," Hibiki nodded as the three began to walk over, "Touma… he wasn't acting like himself…"

"Just where did he get it though?" Tsubasa muttered, since she was sure that Primitive Dragon didn't exist or wasn't in their arsenal by this point. She then let out a light gasp, "What of the others?"

"They're alright," Yuri spoke up as everyone glanced over towards the side. The Sword of Light had returned to his human form and was currently healing Maria after Shirabe and Kirika insisted on it.

The three Wielders were back in their base forms after being knocked out of their Ignite forms due to the strain. Of course Maria seemed to be the worst off as she looked to be unconscious despite sitting, Kirika and Shirabe helping her brace.

"Stay with us, Maria!" Kirika called out.

Shirabe looked in concern, "Maria!"

Maria let out a light wince as she finally began to open her eyes, the pain dulling as Yuri's healing was working on her, "We're alive…?"

"That's right," Yuri nodded before looking up as a spotlight was cast on them, "And it seems as though our allies have arrived."

Another spotlight had shone down on the remaining Riders and Wielders, two helicopters having been sent to check for survivors and finding the battered and beaten heroes of SONG as a result.

Maria, Kirika, Shirabe, and Touma had all been shipped off back to Tokyo to get medical treatment, with Miku, Rintaro, and Sophia accompanying them for added security and faster processing. Meanwhile the remaining staff and combatants of SONG were in the process of regrouping and holding an emergency meeting as the sun began to rise.

There was a dour mood currently penetrating the inside of the main armored truck that SONG was using as a temporary base of operations shared by everyone there.

"We lost, completely and utterly," Genjuro said simply.

"We've finally come face-to-face with the lodgemaster of the Bavarian Illuminati: Adam Weishaupt," Ogawa said as an image of Adam mid-attack could be seen on screen, though that was dismissed as pictures of Saint-Germain, Cagliostro, and Prelati in their new Faust Robes, "And with him…"

"The alchemists' Faust Robes," Chris spoke up.

"The moment we clashed with them, it felt as if they'd ripped the Ignite Module's power from our bodies," Tsubasa admitted, recalling the sensation as she grasped her hand tightly, relaxing when Kanade put a hand on her shoulder, "Just how could that happen?"

"The lapis philosophorum," Elfnein answered, "In other words, the power of the Philosopher's Stone."

"They mentioned that yeah, so it really does exist?" Hibiki asked with light surprise, "I remember reading some stories with Touma and Miku about it a long time ago… but I didn't think…"

"When it comes to our world, most stories are based on reality," Yuri reminded, "The philosopher's stone is likely no different."

"It is the end result of alchemy's magnum opus," Elfnein explained further, "The goal of all Alchemists who pursue perfection, possessing the power to cleanse all impurities and illnesses with the purifying flames of purgatory."

"Well that would explain quite a bit," Daishinji realized as he had finally spoken up, "Especially considering what exactly Ignite is."

"Exactly, the magic of Dainsleif which powers the Ignite Modules is powerless against it," Elfnein confirmed.

"So in essence, it's the natural enemy of the Ignite Module," Tsubasa realized, "That shock that felt like I was being torn apart was the Ignite effect being forcibly undone."

"It did feel kind of similar to when Bahamut was created via our Ignite's power yeah," Chris nodded, recalling the feeling before sighing, "So what was basically our trump card is now our Achilles heel?"

"Thankfully we have multiple trump cards," Daishinji said as he looked around, "Even if their raw power isn't on par, the Ride Gear forms do still exist and should be fine."

"Those shouldn't be affected, yes," Elfnein nodded, "While Dainsleif was utilized to allow synchronicity between the Wielders and Ride Books via the placement of a blade within the mechanism, the Ride Gear forms are not powered by the cursed blade."

"Plus we're not about to let you all fight alone," Kanade replied as she let go of Tsubasa and pointed at herself with a smirk, "If we're lacking in power we'll fight together to make up for it."

"Kanade…" Hibiki looked over with a smile.

"There's comfort in that at least," Chris admitted, "But we're still handicapped… and that's not counting…"

"Ah, right," Hibiki realized what her friend was getting at before turning towards Aoi, "I heard Touma and the others were transported to Tokyo, are they alright?"

"We don't have the full exam results yet, but miraculously, he alongside the others seem to have avoided any major injuries," Aoi explained, "Thankfully with Sophia there they were able to bypass a couple of formalities, while Rintaro and Miku have reported nothing has gone wrong in regards to any potential sneak attacks."

"I'm sure they'll be okay," Elfnein reassured.

"You're right, they'll be fine, they have to be," Hibiki nodded, having mostly said that for her own reassurance.

'They used their Gears without LiNKER,' Elfnein thought on the situation some more in regards to Maria's team, 'Add the stress from the Ignite Module, and I wouldn't be surprised if they suffered Superb Song levels of recoil. That's not even thinking about Maria adding a Wonder Ride Sync onto it all. And yet…'

"I think it's time we finally address one important factor of that battle," Daishinji said as he stared at the table that took up most of the space in the truck, at the center of it was Primitive Dragon, "This Ride Book."

"Just what the hell was up with it?" Kanade asked, "It looked like it made him go completely insane."

"He wasn't responding to anyone calling him either," Hibiki said as she glanced down.

"Could he have been entirely unconscious?" Tsubasa asked.

"Normally I'd ask about a Ride Book having enough autonomy to do that but…" Ogawa glanced at Hibiki, recalling Ultimate Bahamut.

"Everything we saw was likely a result of this Ride Book," Yuri said as he took hold of the Ride Book without hesitation while looking it over, "It's not reacting, this is a power foreign to me."

"There's a more pressing question that everyone else needs answered," Daishinji said as he walked over and took it from Yuri while holding it up, he was already aware of its likely origins due to an earlier conversation with Genjuro and the other support staff members, but everyone else was clueless, "Where did Touma even get this from?"

"It was likely within the Kazanari Institution HQ," Genjuro answered immediately which caused the remaining Riders and Wielders aside from Daishinji to turn towards him in surprise, "While the Logos Sector was the main recipient of pieces of the Great Book, the Institution was directly given a piece themselves which they stored due to its dangerous power, hoping to utilize it one day."

"Considering the man at the top we're dealing with, I'm not surprised," Daishinji replied before glancing at the screens which were currently replaying what recovered footage from Primitive Dragon's battle they could, "But this kind of power…"

"That would explain the Megid," Yuri replied, "One of them went to distract us while we were already distracted by the Alchemists. That was likely the reason Touma was late, he found out about their scheme and hurried to stop them."

"That makes about as much sense as it can," Kanade said as she ruffled her hair a bit, "Speaking of, what happened with that other attack?"

"Zooous ended up fleeing after seeing Adam's display," Ogawa replied, "Despite it being nowhere near us, I suppose even he felt he needed to leave."

Daishinji stared at Primitive Dragon before looking over at Genjuro, "So what now?"

"The Kazanari Institution HQ is to be abandoned as of now," Genjuro ordered, "Prepare to pull out."

"If we had been able to analyze the Val Verde documents, we might have found a way to turn this situation around," Sakuya lamented.

Ogawa was ready to speak up before letting out a light gasp when his communicator began to ring, soon pulling it out as a familiar sigil flashed on it.

"Commander," he said as he moved in closer while lowering his voice, "It's Kamakura."

"I doubt I'll get away with a mere scolding this time," Genjuro remarked with a light smirk, clearly accepting what was about to happen. Of course despite their lower voices, Tsubasa could instantly tell what had happened.

"When we get back I'll see what I can do about analyzing this Book," Daishinji said as he raised it up only for Genjuro to take it instead, "Huh?"

"Unfortunately I'm going to have to deny that," Genjuro said as he stared at the dreadful Ride Book, "When it comes down to it, this power is not only dangerous for us but to Touma especially. I'm not about to put him through that."

"So you're just going to return it?" Daishinji asked.

Genjuro nodded, "The further away it's from us and the deeper in lockdown it is, the better."

"What the hell was all of that about?!" Zooous questioned as he paced around the Megid lair, "First that freaky power and then that supernova!"

"That last one was Adam Weishaupt deciding he wanted some gold apparently," Storious replied as he noticed Zooous immediately tense up, "Seems he's finally decided to make himself known."

"Seriously…" Zooous muttered, "Of all times?"

"You should have expected this when Saint-Germain originally came to us," Storious reminded before sighing as he glanced upwards, "Which is why I've been trying to gather supplies, such as the dreadful Book that I attempted to snatch away from that Kazanari Institute… only for Touma Kamiyama to obtain and get taken over by it."

"So we went through all that work and you lost it, huh?" Zooous asked as he glanced towards the exit of the room, "Legeiel got what was coming to him though, serves him right for making me have to fight all those Swordsmen."

"I suppose so, however do not worry," Storious said as he glanced back, "I will definitely get it back as that kind of power is meant for the likes of us."

"Just how do you even plan on using that power?" Zooous questioned, "I bet the only reason you lost it was because it almost consumed you, didn't it?"

"If it proves to be unusable then I plan to give it to Charybdis," Storious said as he went to take a seat, "Either way-"

SLAM!

The two turned towards the doorway to see Legeiel holding onto the frame in a vice grip, his clothes torn and tattered as he was filled with scuff marks. Despite just waking up, it was clear he was frustrated by his loss.

"Look who's happy to be alive," Zooous said with a mocking smile.

Legeiel said nothing as he staggered over to a nightstand that held several of the basic Alter Ride Books, grasping several in his hands. He raised them up as he smashed his hands together and let them all fall, letting out a frustrated and vengeful yell.

Back at the Illuminati's hotel, Adam had gotten a new change of clothes and was currently sitting on the bed while reading a book in one hand. Tiki meanwhile was curled up like a cat and making actual cat-like noises as she began nuzzling her head against his leg.

The Alchemists that worked under Adam were there, as were Reika and Ryoga. A surprising guest that had chosen to stop by however was Master Logos, the man keeping his hood up despite the relaxed nature of the meeting.

"The lapis' radiance swept the darkness of Ignite away," Saint-Germain said as she looked directly at the lodgemaster, "Victory was ours. And yet…"

"We almost ended up in the soup too!" Cagliostro continued, sitting near Prelati who had a series of hexagons that projected video for them.

"Not to mention," Prelati said as she watched a video of the unscathed Riders and Wielders preparing to head off, utilizing a frog construct to spy on SONG, "You basically failed to eliminate any of them."

"Come on, Adam finally joined us!" Tiki called out with a pout as she sat up, soon spreading her arms upwards with a smile, "Don't worry, be happy!" she pouted further when she realized she got no real response, "Come on!"

"Thank you, Tiki, but they're not wrong you know," Adam spoke up as he put a hand on his ally's head, "I just figured that if I showed up, I'd best make the experience memorable after seeing something else rather memorable."

"Ah, so you did end up seeing it like you had mentioned you might," Master Logos spoke up with a smile, "How was it?"

"What?" Ryoga asked, unaware of the conversation the two had prior.

"I've seen so many try to utilize that power only to be torn apart," Adam remarked flippantly only to hold an amused smirk, "So to see it become a piece of Rider equipment… well, I never thought I'd see the day. I can see why you were excited about the prior battle."

Saint-Germain stayed silent at that, realizing that Adam had been viewing their fight for far longer than she had assumed.

"But on reflection, I think I'd rather leave dealing with the Symphogear and Riders to the rest of you," Adam admitted as he went to put on his hat, getting up from the bed with Tiki and walking towards the exit of the room.

"Where are you going, Lodgemaster?" Saint-Germain asked.

"Tiki told me something useful she'd gleaned from the stars," Adam answered as he briefly stopped on his exit, "Didn't you?"

"Mhm!" Tiki answered quickly as she held Adam more tightly.

"The experiment was a success, wasn't it?" Adam continued before glancing backwards, "Then it's time we put what we learned into practice and give the divine power form."

It didn't take long for Adam and Tiki to exit, Reika in particular wondering if it was alright if Tiki was out in public since she assumed Adam wasn't going to simply warp away.

Saint-Germain however had other concerns, "Isaac."

"Oh, using my actual name," Master Logos said as he went to remove his hood, revealing himself as the same man that had helped Touma, "You must have something very important for me to hear if that's the case."

"I suppose you could say that," Saint-Germain said tensely as she turned towards him, narrowing her eyes, "Just what part did you play in that beast being unleashed last night?"

"Storious was already preparing to claim the Book, thus I simply directed Saber to try and stop him," Master Logos answered as he held up his Book, the gem shining a bright red and showing projections of the battles unseen by Alchemists and his personal Riders, "It would be foolish for me to try and claim the power of Primitive Dragon personally."

"Primitive… what…?" Cagliostro asked.

"Basically, it has a name now that it's become a Ride Book," Prelati said as she glanced upwards.

"What is this crude fighting?" Ryoga questioned as he recalled how Saber had fought before, with Primitive Dragon resembling nothing of the Swordsman of Fires original style, "We should retrieve it at once."

"It won't be easy to retrieve," Saint-Germain replied, "What needs to be done instead is dealing with the current Kamen Rider Saber alongside that dangerous Ride Book."

"That won't be necessary," Master Logos answered, "The best course of action is to leave it with him and SONG for the time being, so do please simply try and target the others."

"You can't be serious," Saint-Germain said in near disbelief as she stepped forward, "That power is too dangerous to be left to use frivolously like that."

"You act like we can't just use the lapis to deal with it easy-peasy," Cagliostro remarked, "I mean that's what you were going to do, right?"

"Our Faust Robes should have no issues dealing with it in combat," Saint-Germain gave a nod, "However I've seen that power rampage and tear apart those who wield it far too often. It needs to be dealt with permanently before it moves onto a new host."

"May I ask one question?" Reika spoke up after keeping silent, "Just what is that Ride Book?"

"It is a book that is necessary for us to complete our plans," Master Logos explained before anyone else could speak up. He dismissed the projections and stepped away from where he was before moving for the exit, "But, it carries a soul of profound sorrow. There may not be a soul who can comprehend the sorrow within it. And because it cannot be understood, it shall continue to destroy."

"Then why consider something like that necessary?" Saint-Germain pressed.

"Because knowing SONG's current roster, there is one person who could be the key to controlling its power entirely," Master Logos replied as he went to put his hood back up, "The dangerous and unruly Ultimate Bahamut submitted to her after all…"

With that said the gem of his book shined bright before he vanished entirely, leaving Saint-Germain to ponder his words.

Slash currently ran through the forest, electrical bursts striking at the trees to try and hit him. Eventually he made his way to a clearing before firing several bullets forward. His target was Espada who managed to dash to the side via electrically charging herself before she pivoted and dashed towards him. He managed to shift to the side, quickly switching Suzune to its sword mode and slashing.

Espada had quickly spun, managing to block the slash before bracing the rest of her blade with her free hand as she held Slash's attack back. The two kept clashing for a while before backing away from each other.

"I think that's good enough for a warm-up," Slash said as the forest and clearing began to fade away to reveal both of them were in SONG's training room, "We'll take a breather real quick before we keep on."

"Of course," Espada nodded before bowing briefly before she dismissed her transformation alongside her sparring partner, "Thanks for agreeing to this."

"I'm always up to helping my students improve," Daishinji said as he went to holster Suzune for the time being, "That said… just what are you trying to improve on?"

"I've been working hard ever since becoming Espada," Miku replied, "But I still haven't practiced or even attempted to access my Wonder Combo."

"Ah, that kind of improvement," Daishinji nodded, "I understand balancing yourself out, but are you really that in a rush to obtain it?"

"The fight against the alchemists kind of put things in perspective for me," Miku admitted, recalling how she had frozen up briefly when seeing Adam's massive fireball. She chalked it up to her inexperience, and figured she'd try to grow more balanced as a result, "So I'd like to do whatever I can."

"I see," Daishinji said, taking note of the brief pause and deducing it was likely due to the prior fight, "I may have a trick to help get it out more smoothly that I've been researching, though your consistent use of Golden Shinjukyō has likely helped prepare your body already."

"I was honestly hoping for that kind of news," Miku admitted, "But I appreciate whatever ideas you have for me to try."

"That said I don't think I'll be able to go all out," Daishinji said before groaning as a light blush crossed his face, "Seriously… of all the Ride Books to misplace… Bremen was not one I expected…"

"I'm sure it will still go well," Miku reassured with a small smile.

"I suppose so, now…" Daishinji trailed off as his ear began to twitch, "Huh?"

"What's-" Miku was cut off when Daishinji held an arm up to stay quiet, leaning forward to listen to a conversation happening just outside the room.

"This will be hard, but we need to surpass our limitations."

"Good thing we managed to snag Bremen without anyone noticing, dess."

Daishinji narrowed his eyes, Miku looking over towards him before turning back towards the entrance of the training room. The doors opened not long after with Kirika and Shirabe stepping in, or rather Kirika only as she was too distracted by the prospect of improving in secret.

Shirabe however had frozen the second she had caught sight of the two Riders, "Kiri…"

"Huh?" Kirika looked over at her friend who was pointing forward before turning and only now noticing Miku and Daishinji, the latter of which had a stern look on his face, "Uh oh dess…"

In the medical wing two beds had been set up, Maria was currently sitting at the edge of one, looking over at Elfnein who was near another bed and currently monitoring Touma's unconscious form.

"Coming in," Hibiki's voice was heard as she entered with Chris and Rintaro. She couldn't help but smile in relief, "Maria, you're alright."

"Are you sure you should be up right now?" Chris asked.

"Don't worry, I'll be fine," Maria reassured before glancing towards the side, "At least better than…"

"Touma," Rintaro muttered as he walked over to where his friend was, "Is he alright?"

"He's still asleep," Elfnein replied, "The transformation into Primitive Dragon seems to have exhausted him mentally. He'll likely be in this state for a while longer."

"I see," Hibiki said before taking a deep breath and walking over as she went to hold up what she had brought, the book that Touma had as a memento from his old friends, Wonder Story, "Well, let's make him a bit more comfortable then."

"Eh?" Elfnein tilted her head.

"To think that's what you wanted from the shop," Chris sighed, "I get why you did it, but…"

"I just figured he could use something after what happened last night," Hibiki said as she went to place Wonder Story on Touma before putting his arms around it. She couldn't help but smile when she saw Touma relax and give his own soft smile.

"At the very least, from what we were told, that dangerous book won't be with us for much longer," Rintaro replied, trying to reassure everyone but mostly himself, "Which means Touma should be back on his feet in no time."

"Hopefully we can figure out what happened via a personal report," Maria replied, "I doubt he purposely used that Ride Book just to keep it out of the Megid's hands."

"Considering how crazy that power seemed at first, yeah," Chris agreed.

"Yeah, I don't think Touma would be that desperate," Hibiki nodded only for her to feel her phone buzz, "Huh? What is Miku texting about?" she went to take it out before letting out a yell, "EH?! KIRIKA AND SHIRABE ARE-?!"

Everyone stared at Hibiki as she had immediately cut herself off and clamped her mouth shut with her free hand, though she could already feel a stare penetrate her very being.

It was Maria, though she clearly had a kind expression which was terrifying in its own right.

"Please Hibiki, continue," Maria said as she closed her eyes and gave a smile, a dangerous aura emanating from her at that very moment, "What are Kirika and Shirabe doing?"

"They're uh… trying to use Bremen to train and get stronger and Daishinji's about to stop them…" Hibiki trailed with a slight sheepish chuckle.

"Of all the stupid…!" Maria immediately stood up, slipping on some slippers since she was still in a hospital gown as she quickly hurried out of the medical chamber, "Do those two have a death wish?!"

It didn't take long for everyone else aside from the unconscious Touma to follow after her, mostly in concern for Kirika and Shirabe, but also in concern for Maria pushing herself this far.

"You're asking that as if you should be running around," Chris scoffed, "You were in pretty bad shape yourself!"

"Like I said, I'll be fine!" Maria called out as she continued to lead the way.

Everyone grew worried when there was no one outside the training room, entering it only to see what was actually happening inside. The training simulation was still off as Daishinji was currently staring down Kirika and Shirabe who did the same, the Rider having taken back Bremen no Rock Band.

Miku was currently watching the three in worry before glancing back when she heard the door open, "Everyone!"

"Hey, what's going on?" Hibiki asked, she knew but she figured she'd ask regardless.

"Thank goodness you're here," Daishinji sighed as he looked over, "These two are trying to strain themselves further by training and only using Bremen to help them out."

"You don't have any more LiNKER!" Maria reminded as she hurried over, "Why are you even thinking of doing this?"

"Because if we didn't have to rely on LiNKER to fight…" Shirabe trailed, recalling the previous fight, "Then maybe that wouldn't have…"

Miku remained silent, realizing how she herself had ended up pausing in that crucial moment. If she was fast enough, Lamp do Alangina's carpet would have made a fast enough getaway without Maria, Kirika, and Shirabe damaging their bodies.

Chris stepped forward, "That doesn't-"

"We need to keep training as much as we can," Shirabe replied, "Had we been active, Touma likely wouldn't have been as in rough shape as he was…"

"If we can increase our sync rates enough, we won't need LiNKER anymore, dess," Kirika added.

"You need to take better care of yourselves!" Hibiki called out in worry, "One mistake, and you could die!"

"You were blessed with your sync rate without even knowing what it was," Shirabe called out, finally snapping as she glanced towards the Gungnir Wielder, "Don't act like you understand!"

"Shirabe…" Hibiki muttered.

"I can't stand being useless again," Kirika admitted as she looked down, "Getting to fight alongside you all this summer, especially because of that LiNKER restock… it felt great. So how else are we supposed to feel when we're practically dragging you all down again?"

"Even so," Daishinji sighed as he crossed his arms, "This isn't-"

"Please, let them do this," Maria spoke up, surprising everyone.

"Of all people…" Daishinji muttered in near surprise, "Maria, I thought-"

"I… understand how you all feel," Miku admitted, causing a couple of the others to turn towards her in surprise, "That's why despite being against it at first… I have to agree with Maria now."

"Eh?" Hibiki looked over in surprise, "Miku?"

"I still have a long way to go despite transforming and being capable of fighting," Miku said, wishing to express some of what she was feeling, "So I understand why they want to try and better themselves."

"I understand the situation," Rintaro spoke up, though he was clearly concerned for everyone's wellbeing, "But even then…"

"I'll make sure they don't do anything dangerous," Maria replied.

"You're not gonna raise their sync rates!" Chris called out in near frustration, "The only thing they'll level up in is stupidity!"

"Eventually, more LiNKER will be available," Maria said, still putting her faith in Elfnein, "But we don't have the luxury of waiting for that, especially when one of our strongest is out of commission."

"There is a way," Elfnein spoke up in a firm voice causing everyone to turn towards her, though she was currently staring at the floor, "A way to find the last missing piece of the puzzle."

Shirabe looked over, "The last piece?"

"Are you serious, dess?" Kirika asked.

"The one part of Dr. Ver's LiNKER recipe I was never able to decipher," Elfnein explained further, "It concerns which part of the brain the Symphogear should be connected to in order to minimize stress. He may have been supported by Finé and the FIS, but I have to hand it to him… despite his shortcomings, he was a great scientist of the heretical arts."

"That "great" is one point on which we'll have to disagree," Maria said as she crossed her arms.

"I mean some of us have seen he can be a decent guy if he wants to be," Chris reminded, Rintaro nodding as the two recalled their experiences with a Parallel Ver.

"A-Anyway," Hibiki held a sheepish smile, "Could we skip the messy stuff and fast forward to the part about that final piece?"

"The key is Maria's Airgetlam," Elfnein answered as she looked over at said Wielder.

Maria looked over in surprise, "The Silver-my Gear?!"

"Your Gear is very special on its own," Daishinji said as he put a hand on his hip, "Unlike Hibiki who molded Gungnir to fit her needs, your Airgetlam on its own has been a key piece in pulling off several miracles."

"That is because one of Airgetlam's abilities is the control of energy vectors," Elfnein continued, "I noticed recently it would occasionally light up in battle. That was the aforementioned ability, visualizing the electric signals between your brain and the Gear. I hypothesize it was also working to mitigate the Gear's stress on you at that time. Your sync rates have improved somewhat after the training and therapy with Bremen you've done between missions. I suspect this might be why."

"Maria's sync rates have always been the highest among us," Shirabe noted, "Does that mean…"

"…all the work we've done wasn't in vain, dess?" Kirika asked.

"Yes," Elfnein confirmed with a smile, "If I can analyze the traces of electric signals in Maria's brain…"

"Then you can find out which part the LiNKER should act on," Maria realized, "But how?"

"Can we even do it without Ver's help?" Chris asked.

"Oh, oh," Hibiki said in realization, "Have we considered bringing the nice Ver over?"

"That wouldn't work," Rintaro replied with a light sigh, "Remember, you need to be a Rider or Wielder to use Gjallarhorn."

"Ah, right…" Hibiki trailed, "Nevermind…"

"Plus considering Elfnein's expertise is needed and she doesn't have a way to cross…" Chris added.

"When it comes to these desperate situations involving the mind, there is one singular tool that can do that job," Elfnein reassured as Miku and Daishinji's eyes began widening when they realized what exactly the alchemist was planning, "So please, follow me."

Elfnein led them to the main workshop that she shared with Daishinji, particularly her station as on it was a peculiar headset that both Daishinji and Miku instantly recognized.

"This is…" Miku spoke up, causing everyone to glance at her.

"Dr. Ver left behind a certain 'Direct Feedback System', which I went through the process of remodeling with a few elements of alchemy," Elfnein explained, "It can be used for many different purposes. One such purpose was allowing Miku to confront the mental block that prevented her from immediately transforming into Espada."

"So it'll be something similar here then?" Maria asked.

"Somewhat, though in this case a different method utilizing it will be needed due this being on the more technical side," Elfnein replied, "By converting one's consciousness into electric signals and transmitting it into the brain of another, it allows direct observation."

"So you're saying that thing also lets you peek into people's brains?" Chris asked.

"That sounds kind of incredible honestly," Rintaro admitted.

"In theory," Elfnein replied, "But the brain is like a labyrinth surrounding the mind. At worst, the observer's mind could meld with that of the subject, reducing them both to a vegetative state."

"It's a dangerous process, more dangerous than Miku's usage," Daishinji said, deciding to provide some clarity, though it was clear he was worried, "Since she was simply exploring her own mind within a deep sleep, she was fine, if a bit strained by the process… this however…"

"I'll do it," Maria answered without hesitation much to a few of the others surprise, "We're within striking distance of finishing that LiNKER. I'm not letting this chance pass."

"But that's way too dangerous!" Shirabe protested.

"Maria's gone mad, dess!" Kirika called out.

"Like either of you can talk!" Maria chided as she turned towards the two with a firm glare, only for her face to soften with a smile before looking over at Elfnein, "The observer… in other words, you, would face the same risk as well?"

"This is the least I can do," Elfnein answered, the resolve on her face clearly showing she wasn't about to back down, "Let's fight together!"

"You're really going to let them do this?" Chris asked as she looked over at Daishinji.

"Yes," Daishinji nodded as he looked over at Elfnein, "While I am worried about you, especially after recent events, I can tell this is something I won't be able to talk you down from."

Elfnein gave an apologetic smile, "Sorry."

"It's fine," Daishinji held up a hand, "I'll do anything I can to help with the process."

Kanade let out a yawn as she was currently standing guard near a black car, staring up at an old-fashioned mansion that held the symbols for Kamakura. She figured she'd show up just in case there was an attack targeting Tsubasa, though admittedly she was a bit bored. Granted, she knew the meeting taking place was anything but boring.

"You didn't have to be here," Ogawa said, currently in the driver's seat, "The Commander and Tsubasa can transform you know. And even beyond that…"

"I figured I'd be around at least," Kanade shrugged as she leaned against the car, "Sure potential ambushes are a thing, but that was mostly an excuse. I figured I'd be there for them even if I can't be directly with them."

"Fair enough," Ogawa nodded, "I can only imagine how it's going."

"Considering who they're talking to, probably bad," Kanade admitted.

Outside of the main office divided by the screen door was Tsubasa, simply sitting and waiting.

It was a fairly long meeting room, Genjuro and Yatsushiro at one end, while facing the two brothers at the very end was the one who had contacted Genjuro earlier during the Matsushiro operation. The man dressed in traditional brown robes and had long sharp white hair and a beard was their father, Fudo Kazanari.

His words were simple as his eyes were closed, "You allowed our foes to invade."

"As a result, the Kazanari Institution HQ in Matsushiro was destroyed," Yatsushiro confirmed, "We lost most of the secrets we have kept since the war."

"We attracted a foreign threat and failed to repel them at the critical time," Genjuro added, "The responsibility is ours. We have no exc-"

"Save your breath," Fudo interrupted without hesitation as he kept his eyes closed and began to stand, making his way to the door.

"There is one other thing I'd like to discuss," Genjuro spoke up as he drew out Primitive Dragon and placed it in front of him, "This was one of the artifacts we were able to recover, and given its power I believe we should-"

"Keep it," Fudo said, opening his eyes as he stopped inches from the door but didn't look at either of them, "You have nearly every Seiken and Wonder Ride Book under your disposal and yet you have still managed to do shockingly little with them out of some absurd notion of respect I can barely begin to imagine. I would like to hope this would change that."

"With all due respect," Genjuro replied, "This power is too dangerous to keep near our Saber."

"Then simply turn him and it into a tool if he proves to be unable to handle it normally," Fudo answered only to shift the conversation back to what he intended it to be, "Now then if that distraction is done, one of you knows what your job is, correct?"

"I will do all in my power to pass the defense bill we discussed as soon as possible," Yatsushiro spoke up.

"Pathetically insufficient," Fudo called out with clear disappointment, "Enact it immediately!"

Tsubasa realized that was her cue and went to open the sliding door for Fudo, simply sitting and keeping her eyes closed.

"You are indeed unfit to be a sentinel," Fudo said, despite no prompting, "It pains me to see the Kazanari blood suffer such a fate."

"I believe it is the spirit and not the blood that makes a sentinel," Tsubasa responded in a firm but neutral and simple manner. While she had many things she'd like to say, especially in regards to her grandfather's disregard for Touma's life, she wasn't about to make an unnecessary scene.

Fudo let out a scoff as he went to walk away, with Tsubasa glancing inwards into the meeting room, catching sight of Primitive Dragon still near her uncle.

"What will you do now?" Yatsushiro asked.

"It'll take time to make the necessary preparations to keep it locked tight by SONG," Genjuro admitted as he took hold of Primitive Dragon while standing up alongside his brother, "Meanwhile I can only hope Daishinji might be able to figure this out."

"I'm sure you'll find a solution," Yatsuhiro reassured as he put a hand on his brother's shoulder.

"Thank you, brother," Genjuro glanced back.

When it came to setting up for the procedure Maria and Elfnein were going to do, the main room that had been used for the Direct Feedback system had been modified slightly. This time there were two seats as well as two machines, various alchemical tools placed between the two as Maria and Elfnein went to place their headsets on.

Aoi and Daishinji were currently monitoring via the main control panel on the room, diagnostics of both Maria and Elfnein pulled up on the screen.

"Shall we begin?" Elfnein asked.

"Yes, let's," Maria nodded before tapping her headset, "So you'll be entering me through here?"

"More precisely, I'll connect to a model of your brain in a virtual space," Elfnein figured she'd explain further, "This in turn will lead to a state of shared consciousness."

"Understood," Maria replied.

With not much else to do except wait for either Touma to wake up, or for Maria and Elfnein to finish with their procedure, the remaining members of SONG had decided to relax by going to an open food market that had a lot of snack booths laid out.

Everyone had gone to get their own snack with Yuri having obtained an obanyaki stuffed with custard crème, Miku having gotten some shaved ice, while Hibiki had gotten a vanilla ice cream. When it came to Chris, Kirika, Shirabe, and Rintaro however… they had chosen chocolate pollock roe flavored crepes.

Needless to say, Kirika was starting to have regrets.

"Kiri, I know you're worried," Shirabe said, trying to reassure her friend.

"I get it, dess!" Kirika answered as she put on a brave face, "It was a decision made with full awareness of the risks involved, dess!"

Rintaro held a nervous look as he saw Kirika instantly regret biting into it.

"That's what you get for ordering chocolate with pollock fish," Shirabe reminded.

"You better eat it after making me pay Miss Sensible," Chris replied with a look that showed she clearly wasn't amused by Kirika's regret. She then bit into it before giving a light hum, "Huh, this isn't half bad."

Rintaro saw this and took a bite as well, letting out a light gasp, "Oh, it's bold and adventurous… yet, it tastes fairly unique and not in a bad way either."

"Huh," Shirabe was a bit surprised at this, "Considering your sweet tooth I didn't take you for a sweet and salty kind of guy."

"Éclairs are actually saltier than you'd expect," Rintaro admitted with a silly smile.

"This is a dare!" Kirika shouted as she tried to work up her nerves, "If I can finish this, it'll bring Maria and Elfnein good luck so their experiment succeeds!"

"I suppose I lucked out," Yuri said before he went to bite into his pancake some more, "Truly this custard creme is splendid."

"I guess so," Miku said with a soft smile before noticing Hibiki seemed distracted, not like she was anyone to talk. She was reminded of a brief conversation she and Daishinji about her Wonder Combo before they left. She shook her head of those thoughts however as she figured she'd do a bit of prodding, "Hibiki, Earth to Hibiki!"

"Eh?" Hibiki looked over, "What?"

"It's melting," Miku pointed towards Hibiki's ice cream which indeed was starting to drip down outside of the cone.

"Wah!" Hibiki yelped as she quickly shoved the ice cream into her mouth before it fully melted.

"You know I'm always here for you, whether it's listening to your worries or just wiping ice cream off your face," Miku reminded as she drew out a handkerchief to wipe Hibiki's mouth, "All you have to do is ask."

"Thanks so much, Miku, you really are the warmest spot I know," Hibiki smiled before her expression sobered slightly, "You can talk to me too, you know?"

"Ah, right," Miku gave a bit of a blush at realizing how she was feeling was likely obvious to Hibiki as well, "I suppose we still are bad at this…"

"So long as you acknowledge that, you've still improved," Yuri answered, though his mouth was partially full.

Hibiki and Miku could only stare at their friend for a bit before laughing, at least until a report on a big screen nearby caught everyone's attention.

"Our next story," the announcer said as footage of Stephan was seen, the boy in a wheelchair with Sonya nearby, various doctors and nurses around them as he was receiving flowers, "Stephan lost one of his legs to civil war in his home country. But he's so determined to play his beloved soccer again that he came to Japan from Val Verde today to get a new prosthetic leg."

"That's great! He can play soccer again!" Hibiki said before looking over towards Chris.

"That'd be nice," Chris said as she didn't seem to be happy, "Just because you agonize over a decision doesn't make whatever you do the right choice. Sometimes, there never was a right choice to begin with."

Aoi and Daishinji were currently monitoring Maria and Elfnein who were all set up now in their chairs.

"Ready? Let's go," Aoi said as Daishinji nodded, the two starting up the procedure.

Soon enough a large alchemic circle formed above the center of the two as the both participants tensed up slightly.

"Everything's looking normal so far," Daishinji said before hearing the door open up behind them, "Huh?"

"Slash," Sophia said as she stepped through, "You're needed at the workshop."

"Why?" Daishinji raised an eyebrow, turning only to grow silent at what he saw Sophia was holding onto, "That's…"

"It's ours now unfortunately," Sophia admitted with a grimace as she lifted up Primitive Dragon, "As such…"

"I'll look into figuring out what's up with it, yes," Daishinji said as he glanced towards Aoi, "Can you…?"

"I'll do whatever I can for these two," Aoi nodded, "Please do whatever you can for Touma."

"Thank you," Daishinji nodded as he went to take Primitive Dragon before walking out with Sophia.

Elfnein felt herself grow lighter as she opened her eyes, being engulfed by a bright light. The light then faded as a calming song began to be heard, Elfnein finding herself in a field of yellow flowers surrounded by tall trees and a mountain range.

The apple floated in the sky…

The apple dropped to the ground…

"Is this Maria's mind?" Elfnein asked, "This mental scenery is constructed from her memories?"

The stars are born, and the songs are born

As she turned she saw a younger Maria and Serena playing in the field. Of course she felt a presence appear near her, soon glancing and seeing a younger Nastassja walk over.

…

The song seemed to stop as a loud snap was heard, the warm scenery changing to that of the FIS facility, Nastassja having used a riding crop to discipline a young Maria with numerous other receptor children nearby.

"Ouch!" Elfnein winced as she felt the blow Maria had just received as well, "But why?"

"From today, you'll all participate in combat training," the memory Nastassja explained, "You receptor children who failed to become Finé's vessels: now is the time for you to serve the facility by shedding blood, not tears."

Elfnein pushed back her sleeve, revealing a similar mark in the same area Maria was struck. She could only stare at the scene before her, watching as a young Serena cowered behind the young Maria. Of course that's when the realization dawned on her…

'Since we are sharing our consciousnesses, her memories and sensations affect me too.'

There was one question that was bothering her as the scenery shifted into that of a darkened room as the children all around her tried to sleep.

"Where could it be?" she inquired, "Where is the part of her brain that connects to the Gear?"

Elfnein continued to move through memories, watching as the FIS conducted their combat experiments on the various children. There were notable individuals within the memories of course, Ryoka, likely Finé already alongside Dr. Ver. But the memories were moving at a fairly brisk pace that she didn't have time to really comment on anything. Of course when she had gotten to a memory of Serena alongside the infant and dormant Nephilim Relic, something changed.

She was now in a dreary and damaged city, Noise all around and ready to strike.

"These are her memories of the Noise?" Elfnein asked at the sudden change in scenery. She let out a light gasp as she went to run, stumbling a few times but trying to keep distance between her and the Noise that began chasing after her, unaware that some of them were being taken out by a few random elemental themed bursts, "If I die here, I probably won't wake up again!"

As if she had jinxed herself, when attempting to run over some rubble she ended up tripping. She turned in horror as she watched as the Noise approached, only for her eyes to widen when she heard a familiar song.

"~Seilien coffin Airgetlám tron~"

A light flashed in the sky before dozens of blades of light rained down upon the approaching Noise, enveloping them in a bright light as Elfnein shielded her eyes. Lowering them she saw Maria standing before her in the Airgetlam Symphogear.

{SG-x00: Airgetlám}

Elfnein could only stare in shock, "Maria?"

"It's a bit embarrassing having someone peek into my memories," Maria admitted, "Even you."

"Um… What memory is this?" Elfnein asked, "Which Maria are you?"

"Didn't we just promise we'd fight together?" Maria asked with a slight smile, "We're sharing our consciousnesses, so I'm present just as you are. What's wrong with me going wild in my own mind?"

The Wielder charged forward, slicing through the Noise horde that had appeared with quick and precise slashes and strikes.

"That's not a memory?" Elfnein asked in surprise, "It's Maria herself?"

Of course, Maria was soon confronted by a horde of Noise trying to drop down and pounce on her. The Airgetlam Wielder however slid her fingers across her blade while holding a defiant look. Instinctively she held her blade in a standard grip, reeling it inwards before swinging outwards. Light and what seemed like white lightning lashed outwards as her blade shined a bright yellow as it began to shift shape.

She let out a shout as she charged forward, "We're breaking through!"

Elfnein nodded, "Okay!"

It didn't take long for the two to make their way through the horde, Maria leading Elfnein forward as they made their way into a new bit of scenery. Of course neither of them was aware that the procedure they were a part of was starting to grow more dangerous when it came to Maria's mental health.

The two stopped in a snowy field, somewhere that Maria didn't even recognize in the slightest.

"Where are we?" she questioned.

"This might be a half-forgotten image buried deep in your subconscious," Elfnein guessed.

"My subconscious," Maria said before letting out a light gasp as she realized her blade felt heavier, lifting up her shortsword only to reveal she was holding the Raimeiken Ikazuchi the whole time, "This is…!"

"…Miku's blade?" Elfnein questioned.

"No, Kento's," Maria shook her head, realizing that she must have accidentally called upon her memories of Kento if her weapon had shifted like this, "He was just as much Espada as Miku is now."

The two paused their discussion however when a strange void-like portal began to open above and below them, both expanding and engulfing the two in mere seconds.

Genjuro, Kanade, Ogawa, and Tsubasa were currently at the bridge, all of them patiently waiting for information on Primitive Dragon now that Daishinji had begun analysis. However Tsubasa herself was worried for Maria and Elfnein, the group having been informed of the experiment.

"How are they?" Tsubasa asked over the intercom system.

"Their vitals are well below the safety zone," Aoi admitted, "They won't last long like this."

"We don't have many options," Genjuro said, "If it comes down to it, abort the experiment."

Of course that was only just the tip of the iceberg when it came to bad news as the alarm started blaring.

"Alca-Noise detected in the Tokyo Bay!" Sakuya confirmed before pulling up an image of a large red winged seven-headed Alca-Noise.

"Is it another space-splitter or something new?" Ogawa asked, "Either way, it's gargantuan!"

"We can't let them pass," Tsubasa realized before hurrying off, "I'm heading out!"

"Don't forget about me!" Kanade called out as she hurried after.

Ogawa glanced at Genjuro who gave a nod, the Rider of Wind soon taking off after the two.

Cloaked in the sky above the gargantuan hydra Alca-Noise was an airship that the Alchemist Trio was using as their main base of attack.

"There were a bunch of nice toys besides Tiki hidden below that opera house," Cagliostro remarked, holding onto a short staff that held the head of a hydra at the tip.

"Basically, we just had to share the joy with all these people," Prelati said.

"With the power of God in our hands, we of the Bavarian Illuminati will right the laws of this world," Saint-Germain replied, yet for some reason, Hibiki's words were on her mind.

"If it's for the good of others, then why can't we work together?"

"We fight for a just cause," she continued before pausing briefly, "No, for justice itself. I can't afford to reconsider the steps already taken, even if I have to struggle alone."

"But you're not alone," Prelati reminded, "Basically, we can't leave you by yourself."

"It's thanks to you that we're here at all," Caglisotro added before giving a wink towards her friend, "Wherever you go, we go together."

Saint-Germain couldn't help but smile at those words, steeling herself for the battle ahead.

"If humanity truly wishes to stand as the dominant life form of this planet, it cannot live in subjugation," she said as she continued to observe her plan in action, "Alchemy seeks perfection. It cannot fall to the likes of Symphogear."

Calibur was currently on one of the taller buildings of the city, staring out at where the large Hydra type Alca-Noise was. Despite the distance he was still able to get a good view of it thanks to his vantage point. His blade was drawn as he simply stayed where he was, waiting, watching…

"Aren't you going to help them?"

"…" Calibur glanced back, watching as Luna walked over.

"I know how much they mean to you," Luna said as she went to place a hand on Calibur's bicep only for the Rider to pull away from her, "You can't do this alone."

"…"

"I was hoping that maybe I could convince you off this path," Luna sighed before turning away, "Fine then, I'll do whatever I can."

Calibur stayed silent as he could sense Luna vanish from behind him. He simply kept staring in the direction of the Alca-Noise, gripping his free fist tightly as his grip on Kurayami held firm.

"Roger! We'll head to the helicopter pickup point!" Hibiki called out.

"No time to waste!" Chris called out as she hurried off, "Let's go!"

Rintaro nodded and followed after, "Right!"

"We should head back to HQ," Shirabe said as she looked at Kirika.

Kirika responded by managing to scarf down the rest of her uneaten crepe, "I'm wobbied adout Mawia ad Elfnwein!"

The two quickly hurried off, leaving just Hibiki, Miku and Yuri.

"While it is imperative we send all of our forces to face the enemy…" Yuri trailed, "I have a bad feeling about this."

"Did you want to stay behind?" Hibiki asked.

"Leave the city's protection to me," Yuri said as he pointed towards himself.

"You mean to us," Miku stressed as she looked over at Yuri, "I'm not about to let you go at this alone even if you have a new form."

"Are you sure, Miku?" Hibiki asked.

"I am," Miku nodded, "When it comes to protecting the place where you'll return to, you can count on me."

"Thank you," Hibiki let out a small smile before hurrying off.

Miku however couldn't help but look back, "Hibiki!"

Hibiki paused as she didn't turn, "Everyone has something they'll never give up on. But that doesn't mean I can afford not to win."

"You don't have to win," Miku said with a soft smile, realizing what exactly this was about and keeping her smile as her friend looked over to her, "Just don't lose."

Hibiki couldn't help but look away, nearly tearing up before giving a nod, "Miku, don't worry, you're strong."

Now it was Miku's turn to look away, almost tearing up as well and nodding, "Thank you."

"So long as we believe in the song of our hearts…" Hibiki trailed as she grasped at her chest before turning and hurrying off, "We can see this story through to the last page!"

Maria and Elfnein found themselves floating within the ocean depths, a soft light shining down on them as white sparks floated around.

"Maria…"

"Maria, wake up."

Maria and Elfnein managed to hear these words, the two fully awakening and getting into standing positions as in the light itself was none other than the one man Maria detested more than anything…

"Are you…?" Elfnein questioned.

"Indeed," the man replied as he floated downwards, now revealed to be none other than Dr. Ver, "I am but a passing hero."

"Dr. Ver!" Maria called out in shock, "I thought you died!"

"And yet I live on in your heart like so," Ver remarked, pushing up his glasses before he grew a disturbing grin and spread his arms out as the area around them distorted into a mess of green and blue colors, "That's what we dead people do!"

To Be Continued…

Author's Note: We've got a bit of a breather chapter this time, what with everyone taking a step back after the prior battle to see what to do next. Probably the most fun bit of this chapter is what I chose to keep to a minimum, Touma. I figured it would fit the lower energy if we hardly saw him and he was still unconscious when we saw him. Overall, pretty fun to write, especially when writing a lot of minor scenes and details as well. Anyway that's all I have, thanks for reading and I'll see you all next time.