Lurker
- Joined
- Mar 3, 2011
- Messages
- 654
Chapter 26: Broken Ace
Vic stumbled back as Mina walked out, holding her hand towards the Rider. His armor vanished as he fell to his knees, holding his head.
“Enough of this!†Mina shouted at them. She looked at James, “Get up, James. Come here.â€
He came to his feet and undid his transformation. He moved over to Mina’s side. She cast a glance at Tasha, who shook her head. “I’m not getting involved,†Tasha stated.
“Tell me, what do you mean about my brother?†James demanded, “He was no traitor! He lost! I saw roaches take him away!â€
“And do you know what happened after that?†Vic questioned, “He sold us out! He joined with the roaches! He sold out this village…his home…and now we’re stuck here because of him! This is your home, and Lucas’s home, but it’s not our home! Tasha and I have been trapped here for months because of your brother!â€
“This is your job!†James told him, “Your job was to protect this village! That’s what Ace hired you to do!â€
“Yeah, well, you know what? Ace sent us into a trap,†Vic said, “Maybe they didn’t realize it, but they trapped us here. I’ve never been happy about it, but at least I could deal with it. And now, here you are, with Dynasty gear and cards, along with your friend, who’s the same way. What am I supposed to think?â€
“How do you know my brother is a traitor?†James demanded, “What proof do you have?â€
“We saw him with the roaches, ordering them around,†Vic said.
Tasha stepped forward, “Look, if we’re going to do this, we need to find somewhere else to go. This place is too open.â€
James looked around, and then he broke off into a run.
“James!†Mina called after him, but he kept going.
James walked alone, and stopped at a few buildings. He looked at them and smiled.
“This is where we first worked together,†he said softly.
[Decade 23. 4:40-4:48]
The three Riders on bikes drove, with a truck following. They rode past barricades, while the truck stopped, unable to follow.
[End Decade footage]
James sat behind the wheel, shaking his head. He grabbed a radio and turned it on, “Lucas, I can’t follow!â€
“That’s good enough!†his brother’s voice came back, “We can take it from here, just try to maintain the communication systems and see if you can find another way around. Don’t abandon the vehicle.â€
“Got it,†James said. He set the radio down, “I’m coming,†he said softly, “Don’t go too far without me.â€
“We worked well together, you and I,†James said softly, “We’re brothers. We love this place, and…and there’s no way you would have given up on it. There’s no way you’d have joined the Dynasty.â€
“James?†Will asked, walking up slowly behind him.
James looked back at him, “What do you want?†James asked.
“You look like you need someone to talk to,†Will said, “I’m here.â€
James shook his head, “No, I’m fine.â€
“You’re not fine,†Will told him, “Something is wrong. I saw Vic attack you. I saw you go down. You’re a fighter, and you could have done something. What’s wrong?â€
“He was one of my brother’s allies and friends. I had no reason to fight back,†James said.
“He’s our ally. Why did he attack you anyway?†Will questioned.
James remained silent and just looked at the buildings.
“James?â€
“He said that my brother betrayed them. He betrayed us to the roaches months ago, when all of this started. He called me a traitor as well, for using a Dynasty belt and cards.â€
“They thought I was Dynasty too,†Will said.
“Yeah, but Vic is claiming it as fact against me. He thinks both my brother and I are the same. If Lucas betrayed them – which I don’t believe – then I’m also Dynasty.â€
“You’re not,†Will said.
“You and Mina know that. Vic and Tasha don’t,†James responded.
“We can convince them,†Will said.
“How? By tracking down my brother, who may not even be here anymore? By finding out what he knows? And…and if he is with the Dynasty, whether he is a traitor, or if he was brainwashed, then what? That’ll only make me look even guiltier in Vic’s eyes.â€
“You fight for the people. You fight for justice, for hope, for the future. We’re the same like that. If we keep fighting, we can prove that.â€
“And you think someone like Vic will believe that? He’s stubborn. He thinks it, so he’s not going to let it go. He’ll just keep assuming it’s an act, or something. There’s no reason for him to be thinking anything else.â€
“Then give up,†Will said, “If you don’t think he can change his opinions, then don’t do anything. Just keep fighting.â€
“I intend to,†James said, “I also need to try to find Lucas. If he’s here somewhere, I need to find him.â€
“And what if it’s true? What if he betrayed the others?†Will asked.
“It’s not true,†James said, “But…let’s say it is. If…if it were true, then…then I would defeat him. I would take his belt. I would destroy the roaches under his command, and I would prove myself to those two. I would show them that I’m not a pawn. I would show them that I’m a genuine ally, and that I’m not with the Dynasty.â€
“Where do you think we should start?†Will asked.
“We’ll go home,†James said. He looked at Will, “To my home. We’ll see what we can find there, and we’ll see if Lucas has shown up. Or my parents.â€
Will nodded, “Well then, lead the way.â€
The two came upon a house ringed by trees. “Behind the house leads into the forest,†James said, “Well, most houses are like that. It’s a very tree-filled village.â€
“Yeah, I gathered that,†Will said. The two made a careful approach towards the small house. James pushed the front door open, and they saw a dining table with food still on it, spilled over and rotten.
“They were taken,†James said, “The roaches took my family, like they took everyone else…â€
“It doesn’t look like your brother has been back,†Will said, looking around the kitchen. He ran his hand over a countertop, but collected dust on his hand.
“No, he hasn’t,†James said. He paused and looked at a door. He walked towards it and opened it, “This was my room,†he said softly. He looked at the bed, at the dust covered shelves with pictures of James and his family, with persona possessions from school and life.
“Which one was your brother’s?†Will asked.
James pointed to the one next to it. Will went and opened it, but James didn’t object. “James,†Will said.
James walked over, looking inside. It was clean. James ran his hand over a shelf, but there was no dust. Everything was in place. It looked as if it had been lived in yet, unlike the rest of the house.
“He’s been back,†James muttered.
“What’s that?†Will questioned. A sound was evident outside the house.
“Roaches,†James hissed. “Follow me,†James said, leading him into the hallway. He opened another door which lead outside, “Move for the woods,†James told him.
“We’re not going to fight?†Will asked.
“We could, but not at my house. We’ll lead them away and deal with them inside,†James said, running off. Will ran after him. Soon a few roaches gave chase into the woods.
As they ran, James slowed. Will almost ran into him.
There was a man standing up ahead, a bit older than the two of them.
“Lucas…,†James said.
“Your brother?†Will questioned.
“Who is this man?†Lucas questioned James. “Oh wait, nevermind. He is the one with the Legacy powers.â€
“So then, it’s true,†James said, “Something is true, anyway. Either you betrayed us to the Dynasty, or you’re brainwashed.â€
Lucas shook his head, “All that matters is that I’ve seen a better way.†Roaches caught up shortly, approaching the two Riders from behind, “And I have the power to enforce my order upon this village.â€
“We were home,†James said, “Everyone was taken suddenly. You clean your room, but nothing else. Is this what you want? To let memories rot? To be disrespectful to the past? To take people from their homes?â€
Lucas shook his head, “You misunderstand. I’m creating a better world! A better village!â€
“And just how is that working?†James demanded.
“You’ll come to understand soon enough,†Lucas said, “Once you see the light! Once you bow down to the Great One, like I have!â€
“Great One?†Will questioned. He looked at James, “I guess we have our enemy now. Whoever, or whatever, this ‘Great One’ is.â€
“I’ll destroy it then,†James said, “Lucas! I’ll save you!â€
“No. It is I who will save you,†Lucas said, lifting his belt. He lowered it to his waist, “Power Ride.†He opened the belt and a card flew forward. It passed over him, forming his yellow armor.
“Power Rider Ace,†James told Will, “The strongest of these three. Named after the company itself, because of the power it holds.â€
“It doesn’t look like anything special to me,†Will said.
[Decade 23. 9:00-9:02]
“Attack,†Lucas said, “I grow tired of their talking.â€
[End Decade footage]
“Power Ride!†both shouted, swiping their cards.
[Decade 23. 9:02-9:08]
The two Riders fought off the roaches while Lucas stood there, watching. He turned his back and walked away.
[Decade 23. 9:11-9:21]
Will slashed a roach back, “Lucas, stop!†Will shouted.
Lucas turned and threw his hand out. Explosions struck at the two Riders.
“He’s gone!†Will shouted.
“That’s just a fraction of his power,†James said.
Will looked at the path, but there was nothing. He hit his arm into the tree, “Gone,†he muttered.
[End Decade footage]
The two came out of the forest in human form. “We almost had him,†Will said.
“No, we didn’t,†James said, “It’s one thing to find him, it’s another entirely to almost have him. He’d have put up a very strong fight.â€
“We’ve fought a lot of hard enemies in the past,†Will said.
“Lucas is a Rider. He’s being controlled. He’s my brother. He’s a fighter by nature. He would have put up an amazing fight,†James said.
“Will,†Will said, “He will put up an amazing fight. We’ll get our shot yet.â€
“Unless we destroy the ‘Great One’ first,†James said, “Then hopefully he’ll be free.â€
“Any idea where we could even find this thing?†Will asked, “I mean, we don’t know anything about it, but is there anything you can think of?â€
“No,†James said, “I have no idea.â€
“Why don’t you go find your friends?†Tasha asked Mina. The three walked through the woods, stopping from time to time as they heard roaches moving not far from them.
“Because you need me,†she said. They stopped as he held her hand out. “It’s gone,†she said, “You need me to find the roaches for you. And to cloak our sounds.â€
“We don’t need it,†Vic said, “You’re just making it easier.â€
“Look, there’s something wrong here,†Mina said, “You think James is a traitor, you fought him. He’s a good man. You need to know that.â€
“How long have you known him?†Vic questioned Mina, “How well do you know him? For all you know, I’m right. He might be hiding his true self.â€
“I don’t believe that,†Mina said, “He’s genuine. He’s a good man.â€
“Look, you’re not convincing him,†Tasha said, “Whatever the truth is, I’m sick of listening to this. Until James does something that makes him clearly the enemy, I’m trusting him.â€
“Why?†Vic questioned.
“Because I know him. I know what Lucas was. If he’s anything like Lucas, we need him. We need his help. We’re outnumbered, after all.â€
Vic sighed, “You’re too trusting.â€
“And you’re not trusting enough,†Tasha said. The group came to the edge of the treeline, “Ok, now we have to choose our next move.â€
“We should try to find Will and James,†Mina said.
“Of course you’d say that,†Vic muttered.
“It’s not a bad idea,†Tasha said, “Can you find them?â€
“I can feel them, yes,†she said, “I’ll try to get us there.â€
Vic sighed as the other two went on ahead. He finally went after them.
As Will and James made their way through the open ground, then stopped. Roaches began to appear around them.
“So, can they just appear now?†Will questioned.
“Whatever,†James said, lifting his card, “Let’s destroy them.â€
Will put his belt on, “Right. Power Ride!â€
“Power Ride!â€
Legacy and Ender ran forward, both of them shooting. They blasted roaches aside and engaged them in close combat.
Mina came behind them soon, “There!†she shouted.
The two Riders watched as James and Will fought the roaches back, then Tasha looked at Vic, “We’re going in,†she said. “Power Ride!†She ran forward, pulling on her belt.
“Power Ride!†he shouted, going after her.
Lance and Arrow fought through the roaches with physical attacks. James looked at them as he kicked a roach aside, “So, do you trust me yet?†he questioned.
“No,†Vic said, “But I’m following Tasha’s orders.â€
“We’ve learned something,†Will said, punching a roach back.
“Lucas is being controlled by something called the ‘Great One’,†James said, “If we can destroy it, then things should go back to normal.â€
“Good,†Tasha said, “We have a target now.â€
“We just don’t know where it is,†James said, “But luckily, we have a psychic who can hopefully detect it for us.â€
“I can hear you, and I didn’t hear a please!†Mina shouted, throwing roaches aside with a thrust of her hand.
“Fine, can you please do it?†James questioned.
“Of course,†she said. “Wait…there’s something ahead! Two things! One feels like a belt, and the other…I don’t know what it is…â€
Explosions struck around the five of them as Lucas lowered his hand.
“So, his powers aren’t just confined to his suit anymore,†James said, “The Great One’s influence must do that to him.â€
“He’s wearing his belt,†Will pointed out, “Is it possible he doesn’t need to transform?â€
“Maybe,†James said.
“Why don’t you five just give up?†Lucas questioned, “Come and see the glory of the Great One. It will open a new world for all of you.â€
“Lucas!†James shouted, “I’m going to destroy the Great One and save you!â€
“Power Ride,†Lucas said, activating his belt.
[Decade 23. 15:13-15:18]
A card passed over him, forming the Ace suit. He walked forward.
The four Riders ran towards him, with James in the lead. “Lucas!†James screamed as they ran.
[End Decade footage]
As Lucas walked, roaches came to his side and ran forward.
[Decade 23. 15:21-15:46]
James pushed through them, “I don’t have time!†he shouted. Will pushed past them and ran to help James.
James clashed with Lucas, but Will pushed himself in, fighting the golden Rider, until taking a punch to the chest. Will stumbled, then moved forward with a shout and kicked.
Vic and Tasha fought the roaches, doing rather well.
Will grabbed Lucas, “James, go after the second energy source!†Will shouted.
“Yeah…just keep Lucas restrained!†James shouted as he ran off. Lucas and Will continued to struggle.
[End Decade footage]
As James ran, he stopped, “What is that?†he muttered, seeing a dark glob of energy. He ran forward and shouted, firing.
[Decade 23. 15:54-18:08]
He fired on it repeatedly as it formed up in the sky, becoming a giant flying beast of white and gold. It lashed its giant tale down, smashing James aside. It also separated Will and Lucas.
James rolled. Will looked up at it.
“Great One!†Lucas shouted, “You came to destroy the non believers!â€
“What is that?†Vic questioned. Roaches approached the two of them. The two turned to face the roaches.
“Keep focused!†Tasha told him.
The giant beast floated in the sky, holding a giant blade. It roared.
“Let’s try something,†James said. The two Riders ran for the giant, shouting. It plunged its sword down, but they avoided it. Will leapt up to slash, but was batted aside.
James was shouting and firing as Will fell. He moved to his friend’s side, “Will, you ok?†he questioned.
The shots were doing nothing to the giant. It was charging energy in its mouth.
“Run!†James shouted as the two ran, the beast flying over them, unleashing fireballs. It continued to roar and flew over them. The two rolled.
“How can we fight this thing?†James muttered, “It’s too big!â€
“Wait,†Will said. The two rose to their feet, “We’ve fought harder enemies,†he said, pointing at the beast, “We held up against Apollo. We can defeat something like this! This is your home, James. We’ll free it from this beast’s grasp. We’ll free everyone!†He lifted his secondary belt and card and slotted them together.
“Legendâ€
“Grandâ€
“Dragon Knightâ€
“Phiâ€
“Spadeâ€
“Echoâ€
“Beetâ€
“Railâ€
“Fangâ€
He touched his own emblem.
“Legacyâ€
“All Riders Combine†rang out.
He opened his belt and a card appeared, loading on his head. His body shifted and the cards of the Riders appeared on his chest. He twisted his belt, loading the touch device as the new buckle.
The two Riders stood to face the monster together.
It slammed its tail down and the two rolled.
Will drew his buckle up and hit a button.
“Echoâ€
“Samuraiâ€
He loaded it back on as an armored version of Echo appeared at his side, sword in hand.
As the monster unleashed a fireball, both slashed it in half. Will slashed a card and the two lifted their swords, burning with energy and fire. They slashed, cutting the monster in half.
It screamed as it exploded, and Echo vanished.
Vic and Tasha watched as the roaches vanished.
[Decade 23. 18:18-20:27 (note: edit in lasers)]
Will looked back, “Got him.â€
“Yes!†Vic shouted, “With that thing gone, there are no more roaches!â€
Lucas walked forward in his armor, standing there silently.
“Lucas?†James asked.
Vic clasped Tasha on the shoulder. “Lucas!†she said, running towards him with Vic.
“Lucas!†Vic said.
The two stopped behind him. He span and shouted, slashing them across the chest with his sword.
“No! Why?†James shouted.
“Is he still controlled?†Will muttered.
“You will never purge the Great One from me,†Lucas said, “He will always be in my heart. In my soul. I am his knight, and will restore him!â€
“No way!†Tasha shouted, “How can you still be controlled? It was destroyed!â€
“I spent months as the Great One’s knight. His influence will never leave me.â€
“I don’t believe that,†Vic told him.
“Believe that. Join me in this glory and experience true life!â€
“Quiet,†Will said.
Lucas turned his head, “I will speak the message of the Great One,†Lucas told him, “And none of you can stop me.â€
“I’ll stop you,†James told his brother, “It’s my duty. We’re brothers, after all!†he shouted as Lucas stood there.
“I will crush you!†Lucas shouted, raising a clenched fist high.
“No…I will save you!†James shouted, running at him. Vic and Tasha ran forward as well, but Will got in front of them.
“You’re allies, but James is his brother,†Will said, holding Vic back.
The two brothers fought.
“I’ll save you!†James shouted, striking his brother, but he was knocked back. The two fought against each other, striking each other.
James was knocked back and continued to evade and take hits. He struck back, but took more hits.
On the ground, James shot, blasting Lucas back. He got up and ran across the short distance, pointing his weapon at his downed brother.
“I won…,†James hissed.
“What next? Will you shoot?†Lucas questioned.
James continued to tremble. Lucas shouted and stabbed James back. He came to his feet and ran at James, swinging. His sword stopped short of James’ helmet.
The two stood there, looking at each other.
“I think it’s over,†Will said to himself.
Lucas lowered the weapon, “James…,†he said.
[End Decade footage]
“As we fought I realized something,†Lucas said, sitting down while the others stood around him, “You’re my brother, James, and I could never hurt you. The Great One had been destroyed, his influence was mostly gone, but…but I’d been his servant for five months. It took some time to break out.â€
“I understand,†James said, “What matters is that you’re back to normal now.â€
He nodded, “I’m back, and I’m ready to fight again.â€
“And the village is free,†Tasha said, “We can report back to Ace and get sent out again.â€
Lucas nodded, “Maybe I should take some time off. Just…just recover, in case there’s any lasting effects.†He looked at James, “But if you’re fighting this hard, then I need to fight hard as well. I’ll keep fighting.â€
“Don’t push yourself too hard,†James said.
Lucas smiled, “You’re the younger brother. I’m supposed to tell you that.â€
James smiled, “Well, I’ve grown up.â€
“I know,†Lucas said, “You’ve become a strong young man.†He rose to his feet, “I’ll help get everyone settled back into their homes, and their daily routines. Then I’ll report back to Ace and see what happens.â€
“We’ll be here too,†Tasha said, “Until the people are back, our mission isn’t over.â€
Vic nodded, “You can count on us.â€
“We need to be off,†James told his brother, “We have a mission to finish.â€
“Defeating the Dynasty,†Lucas said, “Go. Show them what you can do.â€
James nodded and hugged his brother. The two separated and James went off with his two friends, while Lucas went off with his.
“I have a question,†Will said.
“What is it?†James asked.
“Why was the Dynasty here, in such a small village anyway? To enslave a single Rider? To try to get three? But, Lucas remained here. What’s so important about this place anyway?â€
James stopped, “I never thought of that…,†he mulways thought it was just a captured city on the Dynasty’s warpath. But…but yours was used for the harbors. Other cities have other resources and monsters to command. This village has nothing. And to put something like the Great One here, there had to be some reason. Otherwise why not just send monsters?â€
“There’s something bigger here,†Mina said, “Something we’re all missing. Is there anything important in this village?â€
“No,†James shook his head, “Nothing they would want. Unless…unless they wanted the mines.â€
“Mines?†Will asked.
“There’s a mine in the southern part of the village. But…but there’s nothing there, not really. It’s been dug up already.†James turned and ran. His friends ran after him.
James entered into the mine cave when they arrived and began to move through it. Mina threw her hand out, creating light in the darkness. As they moved they came to the end, where there were fresh marks.
“They were mining recently,†James said, running his hand over the spot. He crouched down, picking up a piece of metal, “They found more in here…,†he held the silvery material up for the others to see.
“What is it?†Will questioned.
“There’s an unnatural feeling to it,†Mina said, “It’s not ordinary material.â€
“Then…then just is the Dynasty planning on using this stuff for?†James muttered.
“Let’s not wait to find out,†Will said, “Let’s go back to Harper’s Coast and put an end to Apollo. Let’s destroy the Dynasty!â€
James and Mina nodded. He dropped the metal as the three ran off.
The three Ace employees stood, looking at a few monsters.
“The Dynasty sent them to see what happened here, if I had to guess,†Lucas said, lifting his belt to his waist.
“Let’s not let them report,†Vic said, loading his belt.
Tasha nodded, “Let’s protect the people. Together.â€
“Power Ride!†the three shouted. Cards shot out.
[Decade 22: 14:45-14:48]
The three Riders stood together, “Go!†Lucas shouted as they all ran forward.
[End Decade footage]
-----
22: 14:45-14:48
23: 4:40-4:48, 4:49-4:53, 6:27-6:31, 6:32-6:39, 6:41-6:50, 7:01-7:04, 7:05-7:08, 9:00-9:08, 9:11-9:21, 15:13-15:18, 15:21-15:46, 15:54-18:08, 18:18-20:27
Total: 5:19
Vic stumbled back as Mina walked out, holding her hand towards the Rider. His armor vanished as he fell to his knees, holding his head.
“Enough of this!†Mina shouted at them. She looked at James, “Get up, James. Come here.â€
He came to his feet and undid his transformation. He moved over to Mina’s side. She cast a glance at Tasha, who shook her head. “I’m not getting involved,†Tasha stated.
“Tell me, what do you mean about my brother?†James demanded, “He was no traitor! He lost! I saw roaches take him away!â€
“And do you know what happened after that?†Vic questioned, “He sold us out! He joined with the roaches! He sold out this village…his home…and now we’re stuck here because of him! This is your home, and Lucas’s home, but it’s not our home! Tasha and I have been trapped here for months because of your brother!â€
“This is your job!†James told him, “Your job was to protect this village! That’s what Ace hired you to do!â€
“Yeah, well, you know what? Ace sent us into a trap,†Vic said, “Maybe they didn’t realize it, but they trapped us here. I’ve never been happy about it, but at least I could deal with it. And now, here you are, with Dynasty gear and cards, along with your friend, who’s the same way. What am I supposed to think?â€
“How do you know my brother is a traitor?†James demanded, “What proof do you have?â€
“We saw him with the roaches, ordering them around,†Vic said.
Tasha stepped forward, “Look, if we’re going to do this, we need to find somewhere else to go. This place is too open.â€
James looked around, and then he broke off into a run.
“James!†Mina called after him, but he kept going.
James walked alone, and stopped at a few buildings. He looked at them and smiled.
“This is where we first worked together,†he said softly.
[Decade 23. 4:40-4:48]
The three Riders on bikes drove, with a truck following. They rode past barricades, while the truck stopped, unable to follow.
[End Decade footage]
James sat behind the wheel, shaking his head. He grabbed a radio and turned it on, “Lucas, I can’t follow!â€
“That’s good enough!†his brother’s voice came back, “We can take it from here, just try to maintain the communication systems and see if you can find another way around. Don’t abandon the vehicle.â€
“Got it,†James said. He set the radio down, “I’m coming,†he said softly, “Don’t go too far without me.â€
“We worked well together, you and I,†James said softly, “We’re brothers. We love this place, and…and there’s no way you would have given up on it. There’s no way you’d have joined the Dynasty.â€
“James?†Will asked, walking up slowly behind him.
James looked back at him, “What do you want?†James asked.
“You look like you need someone to talk to,†Will said, “I’m here.â€
James shook his head, “No, I’m fine.â€
“You’re not fine,†Will told him, “Something is wrong. I saw Vic attack you. I saw you go down. You’re a fighter, and you could have done something. What’s wrong?â€
“He was one of my brother’s allies and friends. I had no reason to fight back,†James said.
“He’s our ally. Why did he attack you anyway?†Will questioned.
James remained silent and just looked at the buildings.
“James?â€
“He said that my brother betrayed them. He betrayed us to the roaches months ago, when all of this started. He called me a traitor as well, for using a Dynasty belt and cards.â€
“They thought I was Dynasty too,†Will said.
“Yeah, but Vic is claiming it as fact against me. He thinks both my brother and I are the same. If Lucas betrayed them – which I don’t believe – then I’m also Dynasty.â€
“You’re not,†Will said.
“You and Mina know that. Vic and Tasha don’t,†James responded.
“We can convince them,†Will said.
“How? By tracking down my brother, who may not even be here anymore? By finding out what he knows? And…and if he is with the Dynasty, whether he is a traitor, or if he was brainwashed, then what? That’ll only make me look even guiltier in Vic’s eyes.â€
“You fight for the people. You fight for justice, for hope, for the future. We’re the same like that. If we keep fighting, we can prove that.â€
“And you think someone like Vic will believe that? He’s stubborn. He thinks it, so he’s not going to let it go. He’ll just keep assuming it’s an act, or something. There’s no reason for him to be thinking anything else.â€
“Then give up,†Will said, “If you don’t think he can change his opinions, then don’t do anything. Just keep fighting.â€
“I intend to,†James said, “I also need to try to find Lucas. If he’s here somewhere, I need to find him.â€
“And what if it’s true? What if he betrayed the others?†Will asked.
“It’s not true,†James said, “But…let’s say it is. If…if it were true, then…then I would defeat him. I would take his belt. I would destroy the roaches under his command, and I would prove myself to those two. I would show them that I’m not a pawn. I would show them that I’m a genuine ally, and that I’m not with the Dynasty.â€
“Where do you think we should start?†Will asked.
“We’ll go home,†James said. He looked at Will, “To my home. We’ll see what we can find there, and we’ll see if Lucas has shown up. Or my parents.â€
Will nodded, “Well then, lead the way.â€
The two came upon a house ringed by trees. “Behind the house leads into the forest,†James said, “Well, most houses are like that. It’s a very tree-filled village.â€
“Yeah, I gathered that,†Will said. The two made a careful approach towards the small house. James pushed the front door open, and they saw a dining table with food still on it, spilled over and rotten.
“They were taken,†James said, “The roaches took my family, like they took everyone else…â€
“It doesn’t look like your brother has been back,†Will said, looking around the kitchen. He ran his hand over a countertop, but collected dust on his hand.
“No, he hasn’t,†James said. He paused and looked at a door. He walked towards it and opened it, “This was my room,†he said softly. He looked at the bed, at the dust covered shelves with pictures of James and his family, with persona possessions from school and life.
“Which one was your brother’s?†Will asked.
James pointed to the one next to it. Will went and opened it, but James didn’t object. “James,†Will said.
James walked over, looking inside. It was clean. James ran his hand over a shelf, but there was no dust. Everything was in place. It looked as if it had been lived in yet, unlike the rest of the house.
“He’s been back,†James muttered.
“What’s that?†Will questioned. A sound was evident outside the house.
“Roaches,†James hissed. “Follow me,†James said, leading him into the hallway. He opened another door which lead outside, “Move for the woods,†James told him.
“We’re not going to fight?†Will asked.
“We could, but not at my house. We’ll lead them away and deal with them inside,†James said, running off. Will ran after him. Soon a few roaches gave chase into the woods.
As they ran, James slowed. Will almost ran into him.
There was a man standing up ahead, a bit older than the two of them.
“Lucas…,†James said.
“Your brother?†Will questioned.
“Who is this man?†Lucas questioned James. “Oh wait, nevermind. He is the one with the Legacy powers.â€
“So then, it’s true,†James said, “Something is true, anyway. Either you betrayed us to the Dynasty, or you’re brainwashed.â€
Lucas shook his head, “All that matters is that I’ve seen a better way.†Roaches caught up shortly, approaching the two Riders from behind, “And I have the power to enforce my order upon this village.â€
“We were home,†James said, “Everyone was taken suddenly. You clean your room, but nothing else. Is this what you want? To let memories rot? To be disrespectful to the past? To take people from their homes?â€
Lucas shook his head, “You misunderstand. I’m creating a better world! A better village!â€
“And just how is that working?†James demanded.
“You’ll come to understand soon enough,†Lucas said, “Once you see the light! Once you bow down to the Great One, like I have!â€
“Great One?†Will questioned. He looked at James, “I guess we have our enemy now. Whoever, or whatever, this ‘Great One’ is.â€
“I’ll destroy it then,†James said, “Lucas! I’ll save you!â€
“No. It is I who will save you,†Lucas said, lifting his belt. He lowered it to his waist, “Power Ride.†He opened the belt and a card flew forward. It passed over him, forming his yellow armor.
“Power Rider Ace,†James told Will, “The strongest of these three. Named after the company itself, because of the power it holds.â€
“It doesn’t look like anything special to me,†Will said.
[Decade 23. 9:00-9:02]
“Attack,†Lucas said, “I grow tired of their talking.â€
[End Decade footage]
“Power Ride!†both shouted, swiping their cards.
[Decade 23. 9:02-9:08]
The two Riders fought off the roaches while Lucas stood there, watching. He turned his back and walked away.
[Decade 23. 9:11-9:21]
Will slashed a roach back, “Lucas, stop!†Will shouted.
Lucas turned and threw his hand out. Explosions struck at the two Riders.
“He’s gone!†Will shouted.
“That’s just a fraction of his power,†James said.
Will looked at the path, but there was nothing. He hit his arm into the tree, “Gone,†he muttered.
[End Decade footage]
The two came out of the forest in human form. “We almost had him,†Will said.
“No, we didn’t,†James said, “It’s one thing to find him, it’s another entirely to almost have him. He’d have put up a very strong fight.â€
“We’ve fought a lot of hard enemies in the past,†Will said.
“Lucas is a Rider. He’s being controlled. He’s my brother. He’s a fighter by nature. He would have put up an amazing fight,†James said.
“Will,†Will said, “He will put up an amazing fight. We’ll get our shot yet.â€
“Unless we destroy the ‘Great One’ first,†James said, “Then hopefully he’ll be free.â€
“Any idea where we could even find this thing?†Will asked, “I mean, we don’t know anything about it, but is there anything you can think of?â€
“No,†James said, “I have no idea.â€
“Why don’t you go find your friends?†Tasha asked Mina. The three walked through the woods, stopping from time to time as they heard roaches moving not far from them.
“Because you need me,†she said. They stopped as he held her hand out. “It’s gone,†she said, “You need me to find the roaches for you. And to cloak our sounds.â€
“We don’t need it,†Vic said, “You’re just making it easier.â€
“Look, there’s something wrong here,†Mina said, “You think James is a traitor, you fought him. He’s a good man. You need to know that.â€
“How long have you known him?†Vic questioned Mina, “How well do you know him? For all you know, I’m right. He might be hiding his true self.â€
“I don’t believe that,†Mina said, “He’s genuine. He’s a good man.â€
“Look, you’re not convincing him,†Tasha said, “Whatever the truth is, I’m sick of listening to this. Until James does something that makes him clearly the enemy, I’m trusting him.â€
“Why?†Vic questioned.
“Because I know him. I know what Lucas was. If he’s anything like Lucas, we need him. We need his help. We’re outnumbered, after all.â€
Vic sighed, “You’re too trusting.â€
“And you’re not trusting enough,†Tasha said. The group came to the edge of the treeline, “Ok, now we have to choose our next move.â€
“We should try to find Will and James,†Mina said.
“Of course you’d say that,†Vic muttered.
“It’s not a bad idea,†Tasha said, “Can you find them?â€
“I can feel them, yes,†she said, “I’ll try to get us there.â€
Vic sighed as the other two went on ahead. He finally went after them.
As Will and James made their way through the open ground, then stopped. Roaches began to appear around them.
“So, can they just appear now?†Will questioned.
“Whatever,†James said, lifting his card, “Let’s destroy them.â€
Will put his belt on, “Right. Power Ride!â€
“Power Ride!â€
Legacy and Ender ran forward, both of them shooting. They blasted roaches aside and engaged them in close combat.
Mina came behind them soon, “There!†she shouted.
The two Riders watched as James and Will fought the roaches back, then Tasha looked at Vic, “We’re going in,†she said. “Power Ride!†She ran forward, pulling on her belt.
“Power Ride!†he shouted, going after her.
Lance and Arrow fought through the roaches with physical attacks. James looked at them as he kicked a roach aside, “So, do you trust me yet?†he questioned.
“No,†Vic said, “But I’m following Tasha’s orders.â€
“We’ve learned something,†Will said, punching a roach back.
“Lucas is being controlled by something called the ‘Great One’,†James said, “If we can destroy it, then things should go back to normal.â€
“Good,†Tasha said, “We have a target now.â€
“We just don’t know where it is,†James said, “But luckily, we have a psychic who can hopefully detect it for us.â€
“I can hear you, and I didn’t hear a please!†Mina shouted, throwing roaches aside with a thrust of her hand.
“Fine, can you please do it?†James questioned.
“Of course,†she said. “Wait…there’s something ahead! Two things! One feels like a belt, and the other…I don’t know what it is…â€
Explosions struck around the five of them as Lucas lowered his hand.
“So, his powers aren’t just confined to his suit anymore,†James said, “The Great One’s influence must do that to him.â€
“He’s wearing his belt,†Will pointed out, “Is it possible he doesn’t need to transform?â€
“Maybe,†James said.
“Why don’t you five just give up?†Lucas questioned, “Come and see the glory of the Great One. It will open a new world for all of you.â€
“Lucas!†James shouted, “I’m going to destroy the Great One and save you!â€
“Power Ride,†Lucas said, activating his belt.
[Decade 23. 15:13-15:18]
A card passed over him, forming the Ace suit. He walked forward.
The four Riders ran towards him, with James in the lead. “Lucas!†James screamed as they ran.
[End Decade footage]
As Lucas walked, roaches came to his side and ran forward.
[Decade 23. 15:21-15:46]
James pushed through them, “I don’t have time!†he shouted. Will pushed past them and ran to help James.
James clashed with Lucas, but Will pushed himself in, fighting the golden Rider, until taking a punch to the chest. Will stumbled, then moved forward with a shout and kicked.
Vic and Tasha fought the roaches, doing rather well.
Will grabbed Lucas, “James, go after the second energy source!†Will shouted.
“Yeah…just keep Lucas restrained!†James shouted as he ran off. Lucas and Will continued to struggle.
[End Decade footage]
As James ran, he stopped, “What is that?†he muttered, seeing a dark glob of energy. He ran forward and shouted, firing.
[Decade 23. 15:54-18:08]
He fired on it repeatedly as it formed up in the sky, becoming a giant flying beast of white and gold. It lashed its giant tale down, smashing James aside. It also separated Will and Lucas.
James rolled. Will looked up at it.
“Great One!†Lucas shouted, “You came to destroy the non believers!â€
“What is that?†Vic questioned. Roaches approached the two of them. The two turned to face the roaches.
“Keep focused!†Tasha told him.
The giant beast floated in the sky, holding a giant blade. It roared.
“Let’s try something,†James said. The two Riders ran for the giant, shouting. It plunged its sword down, but they avoided it. Will leapt up to slash, but was batted aside.
James was shouting and firing as Will fell. He moved to his friend’s side, “Will, you ok?†he questioned.
The shots were doing nothing to the giant. It was charging energy in its mouth.
“Run!†James shouted as the two ran, the beast flying over them, unleashing fireballs. It continued to roar and flew over them. The two rolled.
“How can we fight this thing?†James muttered, “It’s too big!â€
“Wait,†Will said. The two rose to their feet, “We’ve fought harder enemies,†he said, pointing at the beast, “We held up against Apollo. We can defeat something like this! This is your home, James. We’ll free it from this beast’s grasp. We’ll free everyone!†He lifted his secondary belt and card and slotted them together.
“Legendâ€
“Grandâ€
“Dragon Knightâ€
“Phiâ€
“Spadeâ€
“Echoâ€
“Beetâ€
“Railâ€
“Fangâ€
He touched his own emblem.
“Legacyâ€
“All Riders Combine†rang out.
He opened his belt and a card appeared, loading on his head. His body shifted and the cards of the Riders appeared on his chest. He twisted his belt, loading the touch device as the new buckle.
The two Riders stood to face the monster together.
It slammed its tail down and the two rolled.
Will drew his buckle up and hit a button.
“Echoâ€
“Samuraiâ€
He loaded it back on as an armored version of Echo appeared at his side, sword in hand.
As the monster unleashed a fireball, both slashed it in half. Will slashed a card and the two lifted their swords, burning with energy and fire. They slashed, cutting the monster in half.
It screamed as it exploded, and Echo vanished.
Vic and Tasha watched as the roaches vanished.
[Decade 23. 18:18-20:27 (note: edit in lasers)]
Will looked back, “Got him.â€
“Yes!†Vic shouted, “With that thing gone, there are no more roaches!â€
Lucas walked forward in his armor, standing there silently.
“Lucas?†James asked.
Vic clasped Tasha on the shoulder. “Lucas!†she said, running towards him with Vic.
“Lucas!†Vic said.
The two stopped behind him. He span and shouted, slashing them across the chest with his sword.
“No! Why?†James shouted.
“Is he still controlled?†Will muttered.
“You will never purge the Great One from me,†Lucas said, “He will always be in my heart. In my soul. I am his knight, and will restore him!â€
“No way!†Tasha shouted, “How can you still be controlled? It was destroyed!â€
“I spent months as the Great One’s knight. His influence will never leave me.â€
“I don’t believe that,†Vic told him.
“Believe that. Join me in this glory and experience true life!â€
“Quiet,†Will said.
Lucas turned his head, “I will speak the message of the Great One,†Lucas told him, “And none of you can stop me.â€
“I’ll stop you,†James told his brother, “It’s my duty. We’re brothers, after all!†he shouted as Lucas stood there.
“I will crush you!†Lucas shouted, raising a clenched fist high.
“No…I will save you!†James shouted, running at him. Vic and Tasha ran forward as well, but Will got in front of them.
“You’re allies, but James is his brother,†Will said, holding Vic back.
The two brothers fought.
“I’ll save you!†James shouted, striking his brother, but he was knocked back. The two fought against each other, striking each other.
James was knocked back and continued to evade and take hits. He struck back, but took more hits.
On the ground, James shot, blasting Lucas back. He got up and ran across the short distance, pointing his weapon at his downed brother.
“I won…,†James hissed.
“What next? Will you shoot?†Lucas questioned.
James continued to tremble. Lucas shouted and stabbed James back. He came to his feet and ran at James, swinging. His sword stopped short of James’ helmet.
The two stood there, looking at each other.
“I think it’s over,†Will said to himself.
Lucas lowered the weapon, “James…,†he said.
[End Decade footage]
“As we fought I realized something,†Lucas said, sitting down while the others stood around him, “You’re my brother, James, and I could never hurt you. The Great One had been destroyed, his influence was mostly gone, but…but I’d been his servant for five months. It took some time to break out.â€
“I understand,†James said, “What matters is that you’re back to normal now.â€
He nodded, “I’m back, and I’m ready to fight again.â€
“And the village is free,†Tasha said, “We can report back to Ace and get sent out again.â€
Lucas nodded, “Maybe I should take some time off. Just…just recover, in case there’s any lasting effects.†He looked at James, “But if you’re fighting this hard, then I need to fight hard as well. I’ll keep fighting.â€
“Don’t push yourself too hard,†James said.
Lucas smiled, “You’re the younger brother. I’m supposed to tell you that.â€
James smiled, “Well, I’ve grown up.â€
“I know,†Lucas said, “You’ve become a strong young man.†He rose to his feet, “I’ll help get everyone settled back into their homes, and their daily routines. Then I’ll report back to Ace and see what happens.â€
“We’ll be here too,†Tasha said, “Until the people are back, our mission isn’t over.â€
Vic nodded, “You can count on us.â€
“We need to be off,†James told his brother, “We have a mission to finish.â€
“Defeating the Dynasty,†Lucas said, “Go. Show them what you can do.â€
James nodded and hugged his brother. The two separated and James went off with his two friends, while Lucas went off with his.
“I have a question,†Will said.
“What is it?†James asked.
“Why was the Dynasty here, in such a small village anyway? To enslave a single Rider? To try to get three? But, Lucas remained here. What’s so important about this place anyway?â€
James stopped, “I never thought of that…,†he mulways thought it was just a captured city on the Dynasty’s warpath. But…but yours was used for the harbors. Other cities have other resources and monsters to command. This village has nothing. And to put something like the Great One here, there had to be some reason. Otherwise why not just send monsters?â€
“There’s something bigger here,†Mina said, “Something we’re all missing. Is there anything important in this village?â€
“No,†James shook his head, “Nothing they would want. Unless…unless they wanted the mines.â€
“Mines?†Will asked.
“There’s a mine in the southern part of the village. But…but there’s nothing there, not really. It’s been dug up already.†James turned and ran. His friends ran after him.
James entered into the mine cave when they arrived and began to move through it. Mina threw her hand out, creating light in the darkness. As they moved they came to the end, where there were fresh marks.
“They were mining recently,†James said, running his hand over the spot. He crouched down, picking up a piece of metal, “They found more in here…,†he held the silvery material up for the others to see.
“What is it?†Will questioned.
“There’s an unnatural feeling to it,†Mina said, “It’s not ordinary material.â€
“Then…then just is the Dynasty planning on using this stuff for?†James muttered.
“Let’s not wait to find out,†Will said, “Let’s go back to Harper’s Coast and put an end to Apollo. Let’s destroy the Dynasty!â€
James and Mina nodded. He dropped the metal as the three ran off.
The three Ace employees stood, looking at a few monsters.
“The Dynasty sent them to see what happened here, if I had to guess,†Lucas said, lifting his belt to his waist.
“Let’s not let them report,†Vic said, loading his belt.
Tasha nodded, “Let’s protect the people. Together.â€
“Power Ride!†the three shouted. Cards shot out.
[Decade 22: 14:45-14:48]
The three Riders stood together, “Go!†Lucas shouted as they all ran forward.
[End Decade footage]
-----
22: 14:45-14:48
23: 4:40-4:48, 4:49-4:53, 6:27-6:31, 6:32-6:39, 6:41-6:50, 7:01-7:04, 7:05-7:08, 9:00-9:08, 9:11-9:21, 15:13-15:18, 15:21-15:46, 15:54-18:08, 18:18-20:27
Total: 5:19
