[GAME] Kamen Rider Knights (Main Thread)

[MagiPink]

Knowing that it would only make her mother proud to attend such a formal gala agreed to visit the fashion boutique recommended highly by a fellow co-worker during the hospital charity events. After listening to her mother’s heartily banter how the fashion designer either find a dress or create one that will contemplate Raina’s features had retired to her bedroom while the phone call was being made. Flopping onto her back let out a long tiresome sigh that had been withheld from the brief introduction of the rudely man and suspicious email. When the coast was clear the small white kivat flew out from her hiding place hovered looking down upon Raina.

There was a deep contemplating expression strewn across her partner’s face Kivarra knew all too commonly. When Raina’s soft blue irises hinted a glint of red voluntarily rested down upon the young woman’s pillow. “What do you make of the invitation?†Kivarra questioned. Twisting her body to lie sideways on the bed Raina pulled out the invitation that had been cast aside onto the nightstand. “While the messenger did not give off any negative aura you still feel this to be suspicious.†Raina nodded silently agreement towards Kivarra’s statement. Skimming the invitation for anything that may have been overlooked sat upright look towards the closed bedroom door. Without the need of exchange words Kivarra moved over where Raina’s laptop rested upon the writing desk turned it on.

“That is precisely why we are going to do a bit of a solo recon mission before the formal event.†Raina replied taking a seat at the desk. “While doubting keeps records of their true inner workings on the Saber Incorporation website mainframe we can find out the address. From there can gather some ground what their objectives are before going into the lion’s den.†Typing Saber Incorporation into the internet search bar came up with numerous hits searched for keywords that struck out the most.

(I had forgot to add this one. Oops! This is what happens when one is half awake)

 

[KamenRiderIota]

(OCC: I was planning on waiting for Ryuuya's reaction to Helios but since Zig isn't going to post until Sieg does, I'll go ahead and post anyway.

And oh crud, I made a foreshadowing friendship/brotherly relationship sound like yaoi, didn't I? I'm going to rectify that.)

"This is a Gaia Memory?" Damon asked, looking at the newly revealed Fang Memory with a new suspicion. "You think it could track down any other memories?"

Helios glared at Ryuuya, still somewhat frozen in terror before dismissing him. "I will be able to tolerate him for a while, but I cannot promise anything else"

Damon shrugged, "I'm not asking you two to hold hands and sing Kumbaya. All that I am asking is that you not kill each other for a while. By the way," Damon looked at him curiously, "Did you select your room yet? I have several open... Judging by that look on your face, I'm guessing no." Damon sighed, "We'll discuss it later. What delayed you?"

"Undead. I encountered two of the Undead on my way here."

"Undead?"

Helios sighed, "It is... difficult to explain this to others unfamiliar with the tale of the Battle Royale, but I will attempt to explain this as best as I can." Helios sat down in a nearby coach, shifting slightly in thought, although he was slightly uncomfortable with soft seat. Exhaling as he gathered his thoughts, Helios began.

"In the beginning, before Fantasia was the place it was, 54 immortal fighters were released to decide who would rule over the planet. These were known as the Undead, fighters created with the sole purpose of winning the Battle Royale.

The battle raged on with almost no apparent winner until one of the Undead, the one known as the Joker, destroyed the Sealing stone after gaining emotions from the Human Undead. Thus the Battle Royale ended, with the multiple survivors sowing the seeds of life within the universe. The Undead were then sealed away, allowing their seeded life to prosper and grow."

"But why would the Undead be unsealed now? It's not like Aesir controls them..." Damon quickly began to think before he came to a sudden conclusion, "Aesir created the Undead, didn't he?" Damon asked. Helios nodded once.

"He was the one who proposed the Battle Royale and made the Undead."

"Then we have an army of 54 immortal monsters under Aesir's control. How the hell are we going to manage that win against that?" Damon growled in frustration.

"A rider was able to use the Undead's power to seal it." Helios explained, "It drew power off of one of the Royal Class Undead and thus had an advantage over it. Those riders seem to specialize with fighting the Undead. We can rely on them to seal most of the Undead. You need not worry about those. We'll face them when we do. What else does it matter?"

"I-..." Damon said before exhaling, calming himself, "I just hope those riders will be enough," he stated looking down slightly discouraged. "As we stand now, we have little to no chance of winning this war. I don't trust the Knights yet so we'll have to find more people willing to ally themselves with us. That's the only way we'll have a chance of staying alive."

"What happens will happen. All we can do now is prepare for the worst." Helios said, "That's all there is to it."

Damon remained silent, did Helios genuinely try to comfort him? It was a strange feeling. Being isolated for most of his life, Damon was completely unaccustomed to the various social situations that he encounters. So he genuinely had no idea what to do. But regardless, it felt nice to be comforted.

"Thanks," Damon said. Helios nodded in response.

"You saved my life and brought me here. I'll support you in any way I can."

"Alright then. Moving on, let's plan out our next move." Damon said, clapping his hands together once. "Any ideas?"
________________________________________

Out of sight and lacking Blade's armor, Alice began her wandering again throughout the town. She was completely and utterly alone, as usual.

Glancing around at the chaos that she had unintentionally caused fighting the Undead as Blade. People were whispering and chattering among themselves, looking around at the carnage and destruction that Alice's battle had left.

'If only they knew what was actually happening...' Alice sighed as she turned and walked away. She had felt a certain presence in her mind that she wanted to check out. Thus, Alice began to walk with her single destination in mind.

 

[MagiPink]

(OOC: Normally, I do not want to post OOC in the main thread of the game, but want to let you know Iota, that there's nothing to fix. It really did not come out as such so you're good))

 

[Ziginz Zegell]

Ryuuya felt very uncomfortable with the glare he was getting from the being called Helios. He would have offered a hand in friendship, or at least commradery, but had a sinking feeling he might loose the hand in the process. Surprisingly, Ryuuya wasn't overly shocked at Helios' not-so-human appearence. After all, Ryuuya had turned into a golden armored dragon bugman at least three times already; who was he to complain at this point? Instead the new rider just kept quite and distant, listening to the almost terrifying story about immortal foes. Talk of an army and a losing battle was helping Ryuuya to understand to a greater extent just how dangerous the situation was. When Damon asked for any ideas, Ryuuya answered; perhaps revealing more about his true personality then he had intended. That is to say his false persona as the clueless young rider when, in fact, he had a good sense of planning, information gathering, and understanding of people. “Well we can’t keep being as discrete as you both have been. I figure there are probably others like me out there; humans who have started to discover unique abilities. A few of them must have posted something on the web hoping to find someone with answers. Then of course we have to think about this “undead rider” Helios saw. If we can’t recruit him or her then we need to find out where that system came from and try to acquire that tech for ourselves. Well…assuming it was technological. Gaining intelligence on the enemy should come after we have bolstered our numbers a bit. No use knowing what the enemy is up to if we don’t have the man power to do something about it. Why are you all staring at me like that?” When Ryuuya noticed everyone in the room looking at him half dumbfounded he realized he had gone off on a rant. He had played the fool up until this point to get closer to a possible lead to his family’s killers. Instead he was now involved in a war for the planet and was quickly casting his false persona aside. “Ummm…or at least that is what they would do on the movies?” Ryuuya knew his attempt to regain his fellow’s former perception of him would fail and was prepared to spill his guts regarding his true past and intentions. He only hoped the three would understand why he had worn a preverbal mask up until this point.

---------------------------

Ragna’s rage was burning brightly as he charged at the dark rider before him. Xeph did not move as the rider in white made his first attack which seemed to do little to his hated foe. Another attack, and another after it seemed to do little if anything to Xeph. The rider called Eternal threw a flame covered punch which Xeph caught in his iron grip. “How disappointing…you are drawing to little power from the relic within you. As it is you are using nothing but this world’s memory of Eternal, which is fragile at best.” Xeph twisted Ragna’s arm and lifted the man into the air. Ragna kicked Xeph in the chest to escape his grasp, but his attempt proved to be in vein. Xeph sighed to show his disappointment as he tossed the white rider aside. Ragna’s recovery was swift as he launched another volley of attacks which Xeph easily avoided; one after another. A swift punch from the dark figure sent his light counterpart flying back several feet. As Eternal tried to recover, the one called Dark Kiva shook his head in dissatisfaction. “Perhaps if I beat you enough you will recall more of our past and reclaim your true form and power. Do you not remember that first battle we had so many eons ago? Do you not remember the satisfaction we both felt; having finally met our match against one another? If only you hadn’t except the foolish concepts of justice and peace. No matter…” Xeph raised his hand as Ragna finally made it to his feet, only to find himself ensnared in green energy radiating from a source behind him. A menacing emblem had manifested behind Ragna and now had him ensnared in it’s power. With a motion of Xeph’s arm, the rider in white was sent hurdling toward his hated foe. With a powerful kick, Xeph sent Ragna back toward the emblem which caught him once more. This cycle repeated several times until Ragna was beaten severely. Satisfied with his evaluation of Ragna’s current level of power, Xeph finally released the injured rider and allowed him to rest upon the cold ground. “How unfortunate…yet the fact you still live after such an onslaught is sign that you are regaining at least a shadow of your former strength. Still…I wonder what it will truly take to wake you up?” Xeph awaited the man’s answer, if there was any to be given.

 

[Denjin_Zaboga23]

It took longer than she thought, but Sakaki made it to the graveyard and started to look around for anything out of the ordinary. I thought I sensed something like that Locust thing...where is it? She kept looking around, but to no avail as she didn't feel such a presence anymore. Great, now what do I do? Do I head back to my place? Or do I sort of just patrol around? Sakaki sighed to herself when it finally hit her on just where she was, shuddering some. Yeah...I'm getting out of here. Not feeling very comfortable in a place where the dead were lay to rest, Sakaki left almost as quickly as she came in, still not exactly sure on where she should head next...

 

[Sieghartdarage]

Due to the earlier chaos caused by the Magma Dopant’s rampage, the streets seemed somewhat bustling with the arrival of emergency vehicles at the scene of a tattered frame of what used to be a tall building. Ambulances, fire trucks and police cruisers are all around the site of destruction. If that isn’t bad enough, there are even the remnants of a recent battle between other unidentified riders and monsters known as the Undead. Even with that as the case, a different atmosphere appears to be brewing at the hospital. An atmosphere that can be better described as unusual or awkward as it wafts from a particular room which was assigned to two young girls, supposedly victims of the recent mayhem that rocked the city with flames of terror. The visit of a familiar guest had contributed to the awkwardness but mostly incited by one of the temporary occupants in the room, namely Reiko, whose ditzy and carefree nature is the main reason for such a turn of events. Sad as she once was, her cheeriness now restored due to aid from her close friend, Joan, one she came to consider as a sister. The visit of the girl, known only for her alter ego of the white bat like knight, Kamen Rider Kivarra but not by her human identity of Raina seemed to have escalate the already awkward feeling in the room due to Reiko’s innate ability to discern Raina’s identity without any form of hint nor clue that led to a series of weird exchanges in their conversation.

The situation took a surprising turn when Reiko gave Raina a warm embrace while relaying her feelings about her assurance of getting Cisne back as well as her strong determination if ever there is a need for her to do battle in order to achieve her mentioned goal. This display of gratitude for Raina’s concern and understanding left her stunned and surprised as she had not encountered such gesture besides those close to her. Such a sight had caused Joan to display a small smile, that of relief and delight. Reiko was still embracing Raina until she felt Raina’s hands gently grasping her own as Raina proceed to slowly removed them from her waist and is later seen making her way to the arm chair situated near the window. Reiko was somewhat confused by Raina’s action as indicated by her facial expression only for her to clasp both hands near her mouth. “Awww….Rai-chan’s too shy to hug some more. That's adorable!†remarked Reiko with a cheery tone, a statement that could have made Raina blush in embarrassment.

Even so, Raina seemed to keep her composure as she praise Reiko's faith in Cisne while producing a smile in process only for her to later turn her attention towards the outside view through the aid of the window behind her. "Rai-chan....Thank you," muttered Reiko softly as she felt Raina's hand on her shoulder. Reiko then remained silent as Raina delve into the details of their encounter with Xeph. Listening to her words made Reiko have a mix reaction of anger and fear at the thought of Xeph not using his full potential against them during their brief battle as she clenched her fist tightly in regret. However, instead of delivering n outburst of anger and disappointment, Reiko remained cheery as she responses with a big smile. "That guy is a big meanie. No! The biggest meanie there is and I won't rest until he is put to justice! So, don't worry about it, Rai-chan!" exclaimed Reiko with a somewhat mix of determination and cheerfulness in her tone while displaying a pose as she points at Raina heroically. Raina's pondering about the black kiva's ability led to Reiko displaying a moment of thought as she, herself ponders about it as well. "Ummm.....if that bat thingy is the same as your bat thingy, won't that big meanie have the same power as you too? Another bat rider knight thingy?" inquired Reiko with a somewhat curious tone. "Eternal? Aegis?" quipped Reiko as she wonders about who they are. "Oh! you mean the white prince and the hero. Aren't they dreamy?" responded Reiko with a smitten sigh as her eyes appear to gleam with romantic thoughts. "Especially the hero guy. He is so charming," remarked Reiko once again with a love struck tone.

Reiko's romantic fantasies were then interrupted with the mention of the other two riders, namely Kaixa and Delta. "Kaixa? I don't know that one. Delta? Have I seen him before?" questioned Reiko curiously as she tries to recall the identity of the two mentioned riders. Reiko appears to be in deep thought as she tilts her head from left to right slowly until an image of a black and white rider firing shots at her whiz by her mind. Suddenly, her eyes flare open with a disgusted expression on her face. "Delta! Now I remember! he's that cockroach meanie that shoot weird bullet things at me for no reason! No wait. Is he a badger thingy? Mou! It doesn't matter, he's still a meanie!" exclaimed Reiko with a fired up tone as she appears to display great dislike towards Delta. "Oh! I'll understand him alright! right after I make him apologize for all the mean things he did!" responded Reiko with an annoyed tone, which is much similar to a ranting child. Reiko's childish angst was then diverted as Raina had written something on pieces of paper and is seen distributing them to Reiko and Joan. Upon closer examination, a phone number and Raina's full name is scribbled on each piece. Suddenly, Reiko let out a squeal of delight at the realization of what she had obtained. "Look Jo-chan! Rai-chan had just given us her contact number! Now we can be phone buddies! Of course I would have to get a phone since I don't have one but that is so cool!" exclaimed Reiko excitedly as she hops up and down in delight. "Now we're buddies for real!" remarked Reiko cheerfully as she wraps her hand around Raina's shoulder in celebration.

Reiko's celebration of their so-called confirmed friendship was halted momentarily as Raina explains her normal lifestyle to her. "Aww....Rai-chan. I still think you're awesome no matter what you do because that's what you are to me always," responded Reiko with a big smile. "But tell me one thing, what is a college? I've not seen one? Is it great?" inquired Reiko suddenly as her question made the atmosphere even more awkward. Her questions remained unanswered as Raina began to advise both Reiko and Joan to rest as she heads for the door. "Aw....You're leaving already? I thought we could talk some more....." sulked Reiko with a disappointed tone as Raina leaves the room. "As soon as we're healed up, we'll meet again, Rai-chan! It's a promise!" called back Reiko with an excited tone as she sees Raina out the door.

As Reiko waves at Raina, who just left the room, she noticed a somewhat distressed Joan as she sulks on Reiko’s bed looking unmotivated and defeated as her facial expression obviously shows. “Aww…Cheer up, Jo-chan! The food here isn’t that bad! I’m sure if rest a little, they will let us out of this prison!†remarked Reiko with a cheerful tone in her bid to cheer Joan up. As Reiko rant on about how bad the food is, Reiko couldn’t help but think that deep down Joan was afraid of something, a constant fear that had been bugging her, a thought that long eludes Reiko until now as Cisne is no longer around to point out the facts to her, being that Cisne has a stronger understanding in this matter than her. However, being the friend that she is, Reiko thought that it would be best not to pry deeper into this matter and decided to just cheer her on. A thought that has been churning around in her mind despite the fact that she is ranting nonsense to Joan the whole time while such thoughts were going through her mind. Reiko’s rants halted when she heard Joan inquiring about her wound. Reiko had a confused look on her face in response to Joan’s question where her expression of fear is the reason for Reiko’s confusion. “Wound? Well….,†responded Reiko with an unsure tone as she slowly unbuttons the top part of her hospital attire slightly to reveal a stylized heart symbol near her chest. “There isn’t any wound, just this really cool tattoo. I would understand your fear because I don’t remember getting it. It’s like you’re drunk one night and you go do something crazy and this tattoo is prove of that,†remarked Reiko with a somewhat concerned tone as she examines the heart symbol once more.

“Luckily there isn’t a name on it or I’m done for. Ah… My poor sweet innocence might be gone for good,†noted Reiko with a somewhat mixture between pity and excitement in her tone as she clasp both hands together looking like a pitiful maiden in the process. A notion that might make Joan feel even more awkward at such a sight. “Do you remember anything about me getting this tattoo?†inquired Reiko as she appears puzzled by her own question. “All I remember is feeling a sharp pain and my consciousness fading and the next, no pain and some freaky dream about me floating around in space. Weird huh?†remarked Reiko with a curious tone as she stare at herself with the aid of a tall mirror hung up at another part of the room. Reiko’s self examination in the mirror was interrupted when both she and Joan heard a knocking at the door followed by the entrance of the nurse who in turn had with her two envelopes that made the curious Reiko draw closer near the door as she watch the nurse hand the envelopes over to Joan . As the nurse proceeded to explain the nature of the envelopes, Reiko saw two nurses talking outside near the room opposite of hers’ and was immediately drawn to it instead of the conversation at hand as she inch closer to hear what is said between them.

“Seeing that you’re a new trainee, let me get you up to speed with the patient residing in room 702. Her name is Yukina Nezuma, age 18. She was involved in an accident three months and is now in a comatose state since then,†noted a senior looking nurse. “Does she have any family members?†inquired the younger looking nurse. “Apparently she doesn’t. The accident claimed both her parents and her brother. You could say that she’s lucky to have survived but frankly she may not be so lucky in her state,†explained the senior nurse. “That’s so sad,†responded the young nurse. “Well, don’t be. She’s been like this for quite a while now and honestly, it’s like she’s a freeloader here. Using up our resources when chances are that she may be better off dead than wasting our time,†noted the senior nurse with an annoyed sigh. “That’s cruel,†remarked the young nurse softly. “That is indeed cruel you big meanie!†exclaimed an eavesdropping Reiko as she stood behind the senior nurse. “You should be ashamed of yourself. That girl in there is not able to fend for yourself and here you think she is better off dead? You’re the worst!†exclaimed Reiko with an angry tone. “Listen kid. I have no time to argue with you. Unless you are a close acquaintance of this girl, you have no say in this,†responded the senior nurse with an annoyed tone. Her remark made Reiko’s veins pop up with anger as her face boils red. “Kid?! I’m no kid! You’re an old bitter lady!†exclaimed Reiko with an angry tone as she stuck her tongue out. “Old lady? Fine! Be that way! Let’s go! Humph!†quipped the senior nurse in disgust as she departs the place but not without dragging the young nurse along with her. The young nurse nodded her head in appreciation for Reiko’s action of standing up to the girl as she was being drag away by the senior nurse. Reiko, despite being angry, calmed herself as she notice the little gesture by the young nurse which made her display a thumbs up and a wink in acknowledgement until the young nurse in no longer in sight. Reiko then looked back at the room where the young comatose girl resides. “Don’t worry. I’ll visit you as much until you’re better,†promised Reiko softly with a a determined look on her face as she makes her way back into her assigned room.

Feeling proud of herself of her supposed victory over that ogre of a nurse, Reiko struts confidently into her room, noticing that the conversation between Joan and the nurse had ended leaving Joan to study the contents of the given envelopes. As Joan reads it out loud, Reiko was silently listening to every word she read. As Joan inquires about whether the invitation would turn out to be trap, Reiko was still silent as she appeared to have a serious stare as she contemplates the situation. “You are right. But so far I have not felt any intent to kill from anyone so far in this hospital. Besides, if they have that intention, they wouldn’t have waited this long,†responded Reiko with a serious tone as she folds her arms and close her eyes, appearing to be in deep thought. “However, the most important question would be…………what is a ball?†remarked Reiko as she suddenly alters her serious tone to that of an aloof one, a gesture that would make anyone faint in surprise. “Does it have something to do with food? Is it a sport? Are there boys there? What is it?†inquired Reiko as she let out a barrage of questions at Joan while jumping up and down at the edge of the bed like a little kid demanding answers.


~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~


Meanwhile, while Reiko and Joan are preoccupied with the arrangements of attending a ball, something dark seemed to be taking place within the vicinity of the same hospital as footsteps could be heard but no one is present as the door marked 702 creaked open slowly revealing a dark room where a girl named Yukina Nezuma resides. The door then slowly closes itself as shadow figure appears to be looming over the Yukina who remains asleep, unable to awake from her comatose state. The sight of her being hooked up to a breathing apparatus as the heart monitor keeps track of her faint pulse is all there is to witness. The shadowy figure appears to be just watching her as it stood by the side of the bed. The figure appears feminine as it gently places a hand on the Yukina’s forehead, stroking her hair as it did. “I only wish to be better. I do not want to die,†a thought flash in the shadowy figure’s mind. “Poor thing, you must have endured a lot. Just like I did,†remarked the figure softly her voice soft with a hint of sadness. “As a Fantasian, I am unable sustain myself too long in this realm, therefore I hope you don’t mind me using your body,†noted the shadowy figure softly as her hand begin to glow a bright blue, revealing her to be none other than one of Aesir’s general, Valeria. “You should be thankful. To be able to serve the great Aesir is a great honor that no human could imagine,†remarked Valeria as Yukina’s body began to glow as the energy began to consume her. The glow growing brighter to the point it created a blinding flash of light only for it to fade slowly later on. As the light fades, Valeria is gone leaving only Yukina resting on her bed, her face and body appearing to have experienced some changes as a result. Suddenly, there was a slight spike in the heart monitor as her recently faint pulse began to flare with life.

At this time, the young nurse; who is charge of Yukina’s care is seen entering the room, unaware that the room was visited by Aesir’s general, her eyes focused on her clipboard as she examines the content of the document placed on it. As she turned her attention on Yukina, she dropped her clipboard in shock at the sight of an empty bed where Yukina used to lie on. “Where….How…†muttered the nurse in shock as she looked around the bed for the patient only for her to feel someone place their hand on her shoulder which caused her to scream in terror. Her screams were halted when she realized who it was that touched her. It was none other than Yukina who appears to be ling at her with a blank expression on her face. “Yukina-chan….You’re awake….†replied the young nurse nervously as she quivered in fear. “Where am I? What am I doing? Where is everyone?†inquired Yukina with a weak tone as she suddenly slumped forward, laying on top of the nurse as she did. “Yukina-chan? Yukina-chan!†exclaimed the young nurse as she tries to awaken a now unconscious Yukina.

 

[Ziginz Zegell]

Joan stared at the heart shaped mark for a few moments in disbelief. Her memories had not failed her, yet she still couldn’t comprehend what had happened. What was that power she had used, and why had it changed her into that fearsome state. “Do you remember anything about me getting this tattoo?” Reiko’s question brought Joan back to realty, but only caused a streak of fear to pass through her mind. The confused woman did remember how her eye patch wearing friend got the mark, but she had no idea what it was or how Joan had branded her with it. Joan remembered feeling helpless, afraid, and alone before that feeling of rage and desperation washed over her. The blonde haired girl remembered denying the very thought of Reiko dying and a feeling of something ancient and powerful swelling inside of her. That power…like the very universe was afraid of defying her. It was awful; terrifying even! Joan opened her mouth trying to find the words, trying to explain to Reiko what she was feeling, and what had happened; but nothing came out. She felt like crying because she couldn’t understand what was happening to her. Then the knock came from the door and the nurse entered with the two letters. Joan was still a bit distraught, but the sudden appearance of the nurse brought her some relief. She was running away from Reiko’s question as much as she was from her own. She wished she hadn’t asked, yet Joan knew she would have to tell Reiko what had happened eventually. More importantly, she would need to confide what she was feeling to the light hearted girl.

As she read the invitations aloud, Joan was surprised by a sudden outburst from Reiko who was verbally attacking a nurse in the hallway. At first Joan thought to restrain her friend until she heard what the verbal transaction was regarding. The distressed young woman smiled and felt a bit of weight lift off of her as she was reminded yet again just how wonderful a person Reiko was. Once Reiko had returned to the room and began to speak her own mind regarding the letters, Joan grabbed and hugged her tightly as she let her emotions loose. “Reiko…you’re good you know that…you really are.” As she spoke, her voice began to quiver; it was clear Joan was more distressed then she had seemed. “I-I’m scared Reiko…I’m scarred of something I don’t even understand. Something inside of me that…I don’t know…I don’t know what I did to you back then…I don’t know what that mark is. But it scares me Reiko…I’m scared.” As Joan let loose her tears and confided in her closest friend, Reiko would almost be able to feel what Joan was feeling. It would come off as a strange sensation deep in her heart, but it was more then simple empathy.

As Joan cried in Reiko’s arms, a terrible sensation would pass through them both; though far worse for Joan then for Reiko. Something was wrong; but it was hard to tell what it was, or whether it was good or bad. It was a disturbing feeling for Joan that almost seemed familiar. Almost in response to the feelings, there came a scream from a room near by. Joan tried to rise to her feet to reach the cause, but found her legs were still weak. “R-Reiko”, Joan spoke knowing her friend was in better shape then she was. The tone of her voice was enough to relay to Reiko to go on without her and make sure all was well. Though the disturbing feel Joan had felt was gone, the girl worried something had happened, or was happening.


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“So…what do you guys think? It isn’t much, but it is better then nothing.” Takuya presented the small, two room apartment to his new comrades with a mix of embarrassment and pride. The living area sported a few, old pieces of furniture, with the next room having a cluttered desk and small loft area that was only big enough for a one person bed. The closest thing to a kitchen was the makeshift sink and an electric hot plate for cooking. On a wall in the living area was a door with many fedora’s hanging from it on hooks. It looked as if the door was hidden at one time, being the same as the surrounding wall. Now, chipped pant and a broken latch left the door hanging ajar revealing its true nature. “The pool hall upstairs has been closed down for a while, but the owner stores all the old billiards equipment in there. The side room is massive but there is a lot of old equipment in there. Not sure what my grandpa used to do with all that stuff, but I plan to clean it out and expand my living space a bit. Assuming I ever get a decent job…” Takuya scratched his head at the thought of his current employment, but broke from such thoughts as Ingram spoke. “It isn’t that big, but it should be more then enough for us I think. I assume Fang gets the bed and you’ll take the couch?” Ingram hinted toward Takuya who quickly picked up what the warrior was trying to translate. “O-Of course; Fang can have the bed and I’ll take the couch.” Takuya repeated Ingram’s words since he still wasn’t sure what to say to Fang after his earlier mistake. His suggestion that Fang change her name didn’t go as well as the new rider had planned. Fang didn’t seem upset over the incident, but it was still a rather embarrassing moment for Takuya. “Oh...I guess I should find the cot for you Ingram. Don’t want you sleeping on the floor now do we?” Ingram raised his hand and shook his head signing for Takuya that he need not be worried over. Takuya wasn’t sure what Ingram meant; surely he didn’t intend to sleep on the wall or something. “I don’t need to sleep…well not as often as most people anyway. While you two get some rest I plan to look around the city for more information. It is bad enough not knowing where Javiero is, much less Xeph. Then there are the other knights out there; we need to find them as quickly as we can.”


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As Sakaki turned she would meet face to face with a terrifying sight; well at least it was terrifying in Sakaki’s slightly scared mind. A young woman stood before her with a scar upon her face, and in the lighting of the evening, the girl looked almost spectral. After any shock Sakaki might have had would pass, she would realize Kotone stood before her. However something seemed amiss with the young woman; her eyes were hazy and she seemed to be mumbling lowly. Any attempt to speak with her would proof feudal, but what happened next might explain her current state. A light glowed around Kotone’s waist, and soon took the shape of a strange belt. Almost in response, Sakaki’s own belt manifested and Kotone peered at Sakaki with pale eyes. As the light form the belt grew brighter, Kotone approached Sakaki with a strange look in her pale eyes. The entranced girl balled her fists and it was clear she was about the strike. One final plea from Sakaki reached Kotone’s ears as the belt vanished and the light returned to the scared girl’s eyes. For a moment Kotone just stood there dumbfounded staring at her new room mate. ‘Sa-Sakaki?” Kotone asked before looking around not sure where she was or how she had gotten there. When she realized she was outside, Kotone grabbed her face and started to breathe heavily, becoming almost panicked. “W-Why am I outside! I-I…my face and…” Kotone had quickly slipped into full panic mode; her shyness mixed with her fear of people’s judgments were taking hold of her fast and she wasn’t sure what to say or do. Add in the fact that she had just found herself in a cemetery with no memory of how she had gotten there, and you had yourself a girl ready to pop from stress. She covered her face and crouched down as if to hide from the world, and it was now clear to Sakaki why her room mate had been so apprehensive during their first meeting.


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During her searches over the internet regarding Saber Incorporated, a few things would pop out for Raina that others might not notice as strange. First was Saber’s funding of archeological digs in Eastern Europe which had produced many unique artifacts. What made this strange was that many of the artifacts had gone missing shortly after they were discovered. Similar incidents had occurred at sites in Egypt, and northern Japan. Many claimed Saber was taking these precious artifacts for various reasons, but no evidence has ever been found to prove such claims. Kivara would recognize some of the artifacts found at the sites as being very Fantasian looking. Another strange bit of information regarded the stunning similarity that the current president of the company; Dorian Saber the 4th, shared with his three predecessors. Then there was the matter of his only daughter, Isabelle, who is rarely if ever seen by the public. Saber’s public relations claims Isabelle suffers from albinism and is very shy, and have produced a few pictures of her over the years. Some claim these are just edited pictures of Isabelle made for the public, but, yet again, there is no evidence to support this theory. Even with all these strange factors, Saber Incorporated has flourished in a relatively short time and is now considered one of the world’s biggest companies. The ball Raina had been invited to is a charity event for cancer research being hosted by Saber for at least a dozen other major corporations or organizations. Dorian Saber himself has announced that he will be making an appearance himself; something that rarely if ever happens. Rumors claim many of the guests are attending both to do their part as much as to finally see Dorian face to face.

 

[KamenRiderIota]

A sudden wave of power, almost undetectable except to those who were attuned to the Undead like Alice was caused her to freeze and her head began to pound.

'Undead?' Alice thought to herself as she quickly tried to determine the source of the sudden influx of presence. She began to run, her legs pounding the earth and pavement as she dashed towards the source of the commotion.

When she finally found the source of the disturbance she found herself in a local graveyard. The tombstones were scattered throughout the area, forgotten monoliths of people who had nearly been forgotten to all but their relatives. However, that wasn't what drew her attention, nor what had called Alice to this forgotten place.

Standing in front of her was two individuals, both wearing ornate belts of some kind. She couldn't recognize one of them, but she knew the other one well.

"Joker? No, the crystal is red, not green," Alice frowned, Daito, her category Ace whispered in her mind, "She's... Chalice? No, Joker with the form of Chalice."

Chalice and, by proxy, Joker was the winner of the Battle Royale, the one who defeated the Master in single combat. Joker had garnered her Ace's respect and although Joker was now different in form and by aura, it was still the one who decided to shatter the chains that bound the Undead.

Alice sensed something else though, the presence of a couple of sealed Undead with Joker. Specifically Alice's Category 5 of Spades, Kick Locust.

Deciding to make an entrance, she turned to Sasaki, "Hello there, Joker. No, Chalice, am I right? I believe you have something that belongs to me. The Category Five of Spades, to be precise."

"I'm like you." she explained, drawing Daito's card out of her pocket, "One of the Ace's Champions. As you are known as Chalice, I am known as Blade."

Judging from Sasaki's expression, Alice frowned, "You really don't know anything, do you?" Alice asked, putting her card away, "You have no knowledge about your powers or the Battle Royale. Would you like to make a deal? I will tell you everything that you want to know in exchange for the Category Five. Does that sound fair to you?"

It was then that she realized Kotone was there, sobbing. "Oh, pardon me. Am I interrupting something? I can leave if you want..." she winced slightly. "Sorry."
________________________________________

Damon blinked once. Did Ryuuya just say something intelligent for once? Ryuuya, as in the Ryuuya that tried to look up porn on his computer and the one who blew up his microwave?

"We should probably focus on getting more allies established before we do anything major," Damon conceded, "The question is, where? Nobody would want to post how weird they are online. The only result they might get is getting laughed at and ridiculed. The media is all-encompassing, if we keep an eye on the reports we should be able to keep track of any new riders that show up. Speaking of which... I found one more."

Turning the screen of his laptop, he played the video of the newly named Kamen Rider Blade fighting off an creature that Helios instantly labeled as an Undead. The military arrival after the fight only deepened Damon's concern.

"Ryuuya, that is the reason why we have to lay low. The moment the military finds out who we are... well, I'd rather not think about it."

"That Undead... It was the Category Seven of Spades, Thunder Deer."

"Wait, did you just say seven of spades?" Damon binked, "Are you telling me that the Undead are based off of playing cards?"

Helios tilted his head in confusion, "What are those?"

"Here," Damon pulled out a deck of cards out of his pocket. He spread them out on the table and quickly began to sort them into four piles upon the table. They were all ordered from 2 to Ace in a matter of seconds, dealt as if by a casino dealer.

"The resemblance is... disturbingly accurate," Helios admitted.

"Judging by the structure we can assume that there are four Riders that specialize in the Undead and each of them will probably be using a Ace or a King to fight."

"The Aces are labeled as Change and the Kings are labeled as Evolution."

"...So we have four Aces to deal with." Bringing up another screen with a picture of the new Rider Garren, he took out the Ace of Diamonds as well as the Ace of Spades, the Seven of Spades, as well as the five of Spades.

"Now that we have that issue cleared up I wish to show you something." Damon pulled up another news report.

"Saber Incorporated is hosting a Ball in order to raise money for the National Cancer Association," Damon explained as he brought up another screen, "We also now know that Saber Inc. has founded several excavations and have recovered several 'mysterious' artifacts, all of which have disappeared immediately after they have been discovered."

"So this... Saber group is involved with the Riders?" Helios asked, Damon nodded.

"If we want to recruit some new Riders, it will be likely that Saber Inc. will have them there in order to recruit them to their own cause. If we're lucky, we'll be able to recruit them to our side. However, if Saber Inc. knows about Aesir and the Riders, the Knights themselves will be invited as well so we'll have to be careful."

"How do we get in?" Helios asked. Damon looked at a loss for words.

"Well, my family holds many shares within Saber Inc. But I haven't received an invitation yet, so it's likely that I won't be able to be invited. Or maybe I haven't gotten it yet... Who knows?"

Damon sighed, he had a wonderful opportunity to recruit some new allies but he had no way of reaching them. It frustrated him. Something so close was just out of his reach.

 

[MagiPink]

From a small international café four blocks east west of the Saber Incorporated building Raina sat outside stirring the straw in her flavored ice tea. While the fact that the small business risen to popularity in the business world such a short period time plausible given that many well-known business globally had had all started small at first did not dismiss her other findings as easily. With her suspicion only heightened did not hold any regret going on the recon solo than seeking out help. Maybe not entirely solo as the small white kivat descended taking shelter within Raina’s long soft purple-hair. In consideration that the mysterious corporation was not careless of competitors and thieves alike was not without property security protecting them around the clock knew she could not approach it directly. In either form Raina her actions likely to be recorded did not want to draw attention nor fight its Security Team who are merely doing their job Kivarra set forth being able to go unnoticed or mistaken for wildlife. “What did you find out?†Raina lifted the glass up taking few long sips from it.

“It is like what we’ve deduced from a simple glance.†Kivarra poked her face out giving out like an appearance of a hair beret decorating Raina’s hair. “There are indeed surveillances positioned around each sector of the grounds beyond its gates and check points. Also talk amongst the guards appears that they are in fact human themselves knowing nothing save the same cover-up made to believe.†Raina merely nodded, “As for the security that lies within must regretfully unable to deter being the only entry point guarded landing pad above the roof.†Drawing back into the seat stared at the building contemplating the next course of action. “If we were to investigate any further I fear that we might bring off the wrong impression those simply making an honest living.†A statement that Raina commonly shared frown troubling what this Dorian Saber true intentions were for such an arrangement.

A known fact that family resemblances may occur rarely with each generation did not in regards of Dorian Saber’s case. “Civilizations both present and past have had some sort of Fantasian influence from building structures down to the fine art.†Raina repeated what Kivarra once said when they had first become partners. “These items that are currently within Saber’s collection bare the mark of Fantasian craftsmanship far too strongly simply to have been done by human hands and imagination alone. Now either we have someone to have quite the taste for ancient artifacts or someone well inverse with Fantasia’s existence and their importance. And in this case my instinct is leaning more toward the latter finding it difficult to believe that a man look exactly like his father or grandparent.†Leaning forward slightly fished out the now folded up invitation. What Raina did not quite make out the rest of the invitation to be simply publicly relations or them in a dangerous situation where the other guests being part of something way bigger.

Raina’s mind drifted toward her two new comrades mentioned invited to the formal event. Aside having fought alongside them had had learned only their fighting style and personalities a little. It only dawn upon the young soft purple-hair woman if either of them were like her being half human/fantasia. Come to think about it Femme’s lack information of the Human World could only speculate that maybe they were pure blood Fantasians. Shaking her head lightly smiling briefly returned to the invitation now sitting onto top of the daily newspaper. It did not take long for the local paper write up an article about the strange magma creature attack and mysterious armored figures that had engaged brought her back into focus.

“If Dorian’s intention merely wants to speak with us….†Raina muttered with a scrutinizing look, “Why host such an elaborate event surrounded by the other organizations? Something really does not add up….†It seems that there was no choice except to accept the invitation. However, if any moment during the gala taken a turn into a less pleasant evening it would be one that Dorian will regret getting so many innocent lives being used like a human shield. Xeph’s action still stirred bitterly within Raina’s memories vowed never again to let that happen.

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Fang…Karoi a name that shall take quite some time for the silver-hair fantasian to be familiarize with than that she was originally classified with. When questioned why take on such an earthly name Takuya’s response that it served to draw less suspicion and reflect that of a typical young woman. It was not the exact answer Karoi deem fitting due to the time length it had taken to be decided upon and simple body gesture displayed an emotion not seen by those overseeing her ‘birth’ awakening within the stasis unit. Coupled with Takuya’s generosity providing them a place to stay knowing them only for a brief short period of time. â€Albeit reckless on your behalf find it oddly comforting. Why is that?†Karoi thought followed behind the two inside did not understand further Takuya’s embarrassment. Walking around running a hand along each object noted the deep history Takuya regarded so highly without relying on her senses. “If I may make a suggestion…†reaching one of the books on the shelf dusting off layers dust collected over the years, “…do what your grandfather did for that of many? Follow your own path and that not predetermined for you.â€

It was a suggestion only said from experience could offer to that of her partner having shared that of a glimpse into Takuya’s thoughts. “I don’t need to sleep…well not as often as most people anyway. While you two get some rest I plan to look around the city for more information. It is bad enough not knowing where Javiero is, much less Xeph. Then there are the other knights out there; we need to find them as quickly as we can.†Ingram response immediately caught Karoi’s attention knowing the true reason behind Ingram’s course of action head back out into the city more inversely. Running a finger down the spine of the book sighed deeply respecting to keep Ingram’s past services to the dark deity a secret till ready be shared. “Then it is best that your hopes finding the other knights who had followed the Royal Family to be alive within the Human World. Even with that said do not believe that this world is completely without hope…I can…you simply need to trust me on that one feel some sort the knights presence exist, but not that of those originally.â€

Karoi did felt the connection faintly as it was that the Kamen Rider Knights were in fact within the Human World. Having once served Aesir knew of the regret and need of atonement weighing upon Ingram’s should found it no place to stop him. “Whatever you find this evening do not expect quite as much and if needed do not face it alone. Takuya’s reckless enough on his ownâ€

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Another childhood tale past onto the children Kitsune did not find it terrifying like many of the elders spoke of when one acted misbehave to be true. “Do not be dishearten prematurely Damon†Kitsune brought few strands of hair close to her mouth, “While I believe much as the next person that there are others who are much like ourselves do not want to see you burned by those who have their own intentions. This organization you speak of reeks of hidden agendas that might put our own lives at stake. Do you know the feeling being trapped like an animal and everything stolen from you….â€

Realizing the tone rising in her own voice look away remorsefully, “Forgive m outburst just that this is the first actual moment I do not want to lose anything important. We know nothing of either sides true intentions feel….on edge that there might be a third group claiming to be in the right.â€

 

[Ziginz Zegell]

“Couldn’t we try to steal one of the invitations? I mean…if your family owns stocks, then surely you can get access to a list of other stock holders, right?” Ryuuya thought aloud, but the question had been asked and it was becoming clearer that Ryuuya wasn’t a fool after all. Kitsune’s words and concerned tone brought familiar feelings to the young man. He knew what it was to loose everything except questions and uncertainties, and to feel backed into a cornor. “She is right…maybe we shouldn’t…” Before Ryuuya could even finish a knock came from the front door accompanied by someone whistling a made up tune. A man wearing a brown coat, worn blue jeans, old army boots, and a red T-Shirt stood on the other side of the door. His hair and eyes were both brown, and he had an unshaven face with an almost cheerful air about him. Upon being asked his identity and intentions, the man would produce two envelopes from his jacket and smiled and would smile as he spoke. “Katsu Tsurugi; I’m with Saber Incorporated’s human resources department. I was in the neighborhood so I figured I would drop off these invitations to the up coming charity event. I was told to give them to some one named Damon whose family holds stock with the company. Though his last name evades me…bah, I’ve never been very good at this part of the job unless there is a lady involved. Still, the invitations are for Damon and a guest. So…should I just leave them on the door step or what?” The man sounded honest enough and didn’t seem to have any weapons on him, though his large jacket could easily conceal some sort of armament.

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Takuya was surprised by Fang’s words, but he knew the two had formed a very unusual connection. Though they hadn’t been connected long, Takuya had gained some insight into Kaori’s own situation and knew it was far from a good one. Takuya wanted to say something to Ingram as the fantasian left the apartment, but he couldn’t find the words. “I-I’m not the reckless am I?” Takuya asked this in response to Kaori’s question, more to himself then to his new room mate. It was a strange thing seeing Fang with the book she had seemingly picked up at random; it was the book his grandfather loved most. A story of a hard boiled man seeking justice in a world that didn’t seem to have any left; it was practically about his grandfather. Takuya looked toward the back wall of the building and saw a dusty hate hanging from a lone hook. Kaori was right; it was time for him to stop lying to others and start being truthful about who he wanted to be. “Fang…my grandfather helped people, he wasn’t just a detective…he was someone you could trust to do that right thing in a world full of wrong. That is the kind of man I want to be.” Takuya scoffed and looked toward the beautiful woman with a half hearted smile. “Only problem is I’m not sure how to be that kind of person. I’m not exactly brave or capable, and I don’t know the first thing about being a detective. I guess the first thing I can do is help the person right in front of me.” Takuya nodded and walked over to the number of hats hanging from the secret door and reluctantly took one from its resting place. Takuya seemed almost reluctant as he looked at the hat, almost like a person looking off the edge of a cliff at the ocean bellow. Finally, with a deep breath and a sudden motion, Takuya placed the hat atop his head and felt different some how. He wondered if this was how his grandfather had started out; with inspiring words from an amazing woman and a single decision. Almost in response to this feeling, the secret door opened a bit more revealing to Fang an unexpected sight. Within the room was a lot of sorted equipment; technology that could have only come from her home land.

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Ingram walked silently as he pondered the events of the last few days. Aesir was making his move, and new riders were appearing to oppose him. Three thoughts echoed through the warriors mind; find any Enchantic royalty left in this world, find out how much of Aesir’s forces had made it here, and find the one warrior that might have a chance of defeating Xeph before the monster became to powerful in this world. “Ragna” was the only word Ingram said as he walked down a dark alley way. The warrior with the Eternal power had opposed Xeph before, perhaps he could again. All and all, Ingram knew who would have the most information. A man the rider had met shortly after coming to this world who had helped him settle. While he didn’t tell Fang or Takuya, the truth was that Ingram had been in the realm of earth for some time, though he had done little in that time other then brood over his past mistakes. Resolved to fight once more after seeing the passion of people like Takuya, Ingram was ready to except the offer once given to him by the closest thing in the world he had to a friend. He was ready to ally himself with the Enchantic royal turned exile; Dorian Saber.

As he turned a cornor, Ingram walked into a young woman who he quickly apologized too. Then he looked upon the girl and felt something familiar that caused him to step back from her. “This feeling…I felt it earlier…you bare his taint.” Ingram knew the girl before him had some connection to the wicked warrior called Xeph, yet he felt no evil intent from her. Still, Ingram was on alert as he spoke to the young woman hoping to gain answers while not revealing to much of his true identity. “Who are you…I can sense the fabric of the between realms still thick upon you so I know you only arrived a brief time ago. So are you one of his servants, or one of his many progeny left behind from some old conflict?” The question was harsh, but there was no other way to ask it even as the golden kivat that appeared released a wave of insults and accusations. The kivat’s presence did little to help the girl’s situation or Ingram’s views on her allegiance. Ingram wasn’t one to judge automatically, but he knew better then to let his guard down against someone connected to Xeph.

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