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20 mintues ago...
Hiiro, I need you to call me back asap. Things are going down in the city and we’re stretched thin. Kuroto thinks Gemn Corp is reading something.

10 mintues ago...
Hiiro, you there? If you can’t make it please text me back. Akihito has been trying to get in contact with you and Taiga. Neither of you have answered.

4 minutes ago…
Hiiro please call me. I’m worried about you.

2 mintues ago…
Please. I’m scared.

You let out a shaky sigh and tear your view away from the phone. No. Now was not the time to be weak. You had to push that fear down. Just like your first time competing. Just like your first nationals. There was too much at stake right now to let your nerves get the better of you. You decide that if your boyfriend wasn’t going to talk to you then you’d talk to the only other person that could.

“Kuroto what are you-”

BANG

Your vision goes sideways as the entire ambulance is knocked aside. Everyone screams as you feel the front of the vehicle lift off the ground and subsequently slam into something very very solid. You’re flung out of your seat and into Kuroto as you both slam into the side. You feel your ears ring and your vision blur as you struggle to untangle yourself from Kuroto and stumble around. Somehow the two of you fall through the back doors and onto the pavement. The sudden movement forces you to upend the contents of your stomach.

Concussion… You think to yourself as you look around trying to get a bearing of your surroundings. You recognize the symptoms and briefly remember Poppy and Emu giving you a lesson about them while you were interned in the hospital.

You see that the ambulance had crashed right into the side of a building. People were running around screaming in panic and trying to figure out what had happened.

Kuroto swears behind you and helps you to your feet when you both see it. A lone Rider striding towards you from the flames of the explosion you assume forced the crash. They bore a yellow motorcycle helmet with what looked like exhaust pipes coming out of the mouthpiece. In their hand was Kuroto’s signature weapon. The Gashacon Sparrow, only this one was monochrome. In one deft move, the rider splits the bow into its two sickle form.

“Impossible…” Kuroto says angrily. “It can’t be you…I KILLED YOU!” You look confused.

“What? What do you mean? Who is that?” You ask as Kuroto’s screaming makes your head ache violently, threatening to make you vomit again.

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Last night…

“Night!”

You make sure Reiko enters her home before you get in your car and start to drive away. You can still feel her soft hair in your hands and lips against yours as you feel your mind drift back to your last kiss with her. Shaking your head, you can’t help but feel yourself smile. She had somehow made her way to your heart and seeing her smile elicited feelings you hadn’t felt since…

Saki…

Had you made the right decision? To open up to someone like that again? Doubt nags at your thoughts but you push it aside. There was no use mourning like that any longer. Saki wouldn’t have wanted you to be like that for so long and doing so was putting lives at risk. You had Reiko’s white hair and dulled eyes as a constant reminder of that. You weren’t simply abandoning Saki’s memory, you remind yourself. You were simply moving on. It was natural and healthy to do so. As a doctor you knew this but you couldn’t help but feel a small sense of betrayal.

As you immerse yourself in your thoughts, you barely notice a black vehicle race by you and break the speed limits. You have no time to even get angry at such disregard for the law before your forced to slam on the breaks. The black vehicle had come to a sudden stop and parked itself across both lanes. Preventing anyone from passing by. Your car comes screeching to a halt a few feet away from the blockade and you step out without thinking. Instinctually you assumed something was wrong but those worries were unfounded as a man steps out to greet you.

Masamune Dan.

You immediate reach for your Driver but as you react you hear the sound of cold steel being drawn from a sheathe. “That won’t be necessary Taddle Fantasy. I’ve come to speak to you. I believe a small promotion is in order.” He says with a small smile as he motions for you to step in the car.

Later…

You stand in the CEO office of Gemn Corp, looking out into the city. Masamune slowly pours two glasses of scotch. “Taddle Fantasy. I have to start by saying that I’m quite pleased with your performance in Chronicle. As your CEO I feel confidant in promoting you and allowing you to move up in my company.”

“I don’t work for you Masamune.” You reply curtly as you turn and glare at him. Masamune shakes his head.

“Nonsense. You are Kamen Rider Brave and you play an important role in Chronicle. Everyone who plays and the areas they play in are assets of Gemn Corp. By extension so is the city.” He says nonchalantly. “But I digress. I came to speak to you about a promotion. You have shown competence in your role but I feel it’s time I expand on those roles.”

“What makes you think I’d ever help you? I’m going to stop your sick game and cut it out of this city.” You reply coldly as you start to make your way to Masamune. He simply smiles and holds up a Chronicle Gashat menacingly.

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“I see. That is understandable. I’m not a heartless man Taddle Fantasy. I understand that my employees should be compensated properly. I didn’t make Gemn Corp a multi billion dollar corporation by not knowing these things. Of course, as CEO it’s also my duty to know how best to reward loyalty. So I know money would not-”

“Get to the point Masamune. So we can end this charade.” You interrupt.

Masamune grins broadly. “I’m talking about Saki.” He says quietly. Your heart skips a beat at the mention of that name. You struggle to control your emotions as your reply.

“What are you talking about? She dead. You think you can control me by reminding me of her-”

“She doesn’t have to be.” Masamune replies. You balk, confused. What Masamune was implying was impossible. But he spoke those words with such confidence, such conviction that you almost believed him. “You see...recently Chronicle has become unbalanced. As a game maker, such a thing will not bring in more players or clients. I need you to maintain that balance. But I can see you still do not believe me. So as a measure of goodwill I will demonstrate to you that I am a man of my word. I don’t make false claims. Let me show you one of my closest assistant. I believe that you two used to collaborate.”

Masamune motions towards the two of you and you see someone make their way out of the shadows. Your blood freezes as he comes into the light and you recognize who it is. “Impossible…” You choke out. The young man gives you a cocky grin and lowers his shades as you recognize his attire. A leather jacket over a hawaiian shirt and jeans.

“Kujo...Kiriya?”

>Roll me 1d20 to see how things are going on in the present

Rolled 16 (1d20)

>>4055061

>>4055084
Damn good roll. Alright. I'll get to writting.

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“KUJO...KIRIYA!” Kuroto roars and puts on his Driver as he smashes the button on his Gashat.

Dangerous Zombie… Mighty Action X!

Gashatto!

Kuroto’s blades crashes against Kiriya’s sending sparks everywhere. Even with your higher reflexes due to your Bugster physiology both combatants look like blurs to you. The sheer concentration you need to exert to keep up with the fight makes your head feel like it’s splitting in two.

“CORONER! You’ve defied me for the last time! I’ll make sure that you’ll never come back from whatever shallow grave Emu put you in!” Kuroto shouts as he deflects a blade turning it into a glancing blow and returning the favor with a vicious kick. The man named Kiriya raises his leg to intercept the kick with his shin. He hops and spins sideways, slicing into Kuroto with both blades and planting both hands on the ground to continue the assault with a series of handstanding kicks.

Kuroto slowly backs up growling as he struggles to fend off the attacks. He’s pushed back into a small ledge that serves as a place to sit. Hopping on to it, he snaps both sickles back into a bow and fires wildly at Kiriya. Kiriya simply deflects the bolts of energy and they crash into nearby buildings. Screams rise as the panic in the streets increase.

You struggle to stay on your feet and slowly dig into your bag. You had to go help Kuroto. Otherwise people might get caught in the crossfire. As you dig around you hear voices come from within the crash ambulance.

“Help us...please…” A weak voice echoes out. You look back into the ambulance to see one of the Ride Players you were rushing to the hospital begging for help. Blood runs down from his hair as he struggles to get up. Various other players and the EMTs were out cold, strewn about within the vehicle. Or so you hope. You look between the fight and the ambulance. You had to get these people to a hospital. Game Syndrome or no, they were now more injured and needed medical attention. Problem was...you don’t know how to drive….

Kuroto HP: 12/15
>What do you do?
>Get in the Driver’s seat and try to drive the Ambulance to the hospital. Kuroto can hold off the other Rider. Hopefully you have some kind of natural skill with vehicles.
>Ask Kuroto to back off and try to drive the players to the hospital. With your head injury you don’t think driving is a good idea. But that doesn’t stop you from being a meat shield and try to hold the other Rider’s attention.
>Tell Kuroto to disengage and try to drive away. Maybe the ambulance can outrun the other Rider and hopefully you could dodge and attacks he might throw at you while you try to escape.
>Try and call for backup. Surely the others must be free to come and help. You’re just not sure you or the ride players have the time to wait for an extraction team.
>Write in.
With that I'm going to head to bed. Votes open til tomorrow.

Oh and 1d20 for any choice.

Rolled 11 (1d20)

>>4055104
>Ask Kuroto to back off and try to drive the players to the hospital. With your head injury you don’t think driving is a good idea. But that doesn’t stop you from being a meat shield and try to hold the other Rider’s attention

Rolled 1 (1d20)

>>4055104
>Ask Kuroto to back off and try to drive the players to the hospital. With your head injury you don’t think driving is a good idea. But that doesn’t stop you from being a meat shield and try to hold the other Rider’s attention.

Rolled 18 (1d20)

>>4055104
>Ask Kuroto to back off and try to drive the players to the hospital. With your head injury you don’t think driving is a good idea. But that doesn’t stop you from being a meat shield and try to hold the other Rider’s attention.

>>4055164
>>4055132
>>4055113
Continuing the trend of throwing ourselves into danger for the sake of others. I dig it. Writing.

“KUROTO!” You scream as you feel your vision explodes into lights and you hold your head in pain. “Get them out of here and back to the hospital!” You shout pointing to the ambulance and drawing your Driver. The belt clamps around your waist and you grit your teeth, fighting the pain.

Noir Mystery Drago Hunter Knight Z!
Gashatto!

You run unsteadily towards the two drawing both your arm blades. Jumping your twist in midair to strike Kiriya with your armor’s tail. Kuroto nimbly jumps over the two of you as your attack connects and slams Kiriya into the concrete ledge, shattering it completely and sending rubble everywhere.

“What are you doing?! This is my fight! You go and help those people! It was your idea to begin with!” Kuroto argues. You duck under the pair of sickles and try to ignore the fact that everything is spinning around you as you drive a blade into Kiriya’s abdomen.

“I can’t drive you idiot! And I have a concussion!” You shout back as you throw yourself out of the way of a barrage of arrow blasts. “I’m in charge right now Kuroto! Now go! Tell the others what’s going on!”

Kuroto looks at you for a while and untransforms with a maniacal grin on his face. “So you’re done moping around? Excellent! This is my chosen player! Do you dare die on me Reiko! We still have a game to finish!” He shouts closing the back doors before he climbs into the driver’s seat of the ambulance, pushing the unconscious driver into the other seat and shouting. “Your Game Master is here! In my benevolence I’ve decided to take you to the hospital!”

Kiriya aims his bow at the ambulance, ready to finish off Kuroto and everyone inside, only to feel a rope wrap around his body and immobilizing him. You pull with all your might, sending the trapped Rider flying towards you. Dashing forward, you catch the back of his head and roar as you slam him face first into the concrete sidewalk. The sudden movement triggers your vertigo and you fall to the ground, dizzy.

The ambulance races down the road, unsteady and making noises that would have made you uncomfortable to ride in, in any other circumstance but at least it was mobile. You feel yourself being kicked aside as the other Rider untangles themselves from your grapple hook. Crashing into a nearby wall you struggle to get up so you do what you do best. Talk.

”So...sounds like you have some history with Kuroto. What’s the deal? Failed assassination attempt? Gemn Corp promising you revenge?” You cough out and get to your knees.

Silence.

”Oh...the quiet type...I’m not sure if I should be happy or not. Everyone else was willing to yell at me during fights.” You pushing yourself up against a wall to stand up. At this point everything is a blur, and the only indication of where your opponent is, is the large yellow blur moving towards you.

>What do you do?
>Fight. This Kiriya guy probably won’t let you get away and with your concussion, you’re not sure how far you can run. If you can beat him however, maybe you can get some information out of him. Maybe even find a way to end the game once and for all.
>Play the waiting game. Be evasive and try to wait for back up to arrive. However long that might take.
>Run. Plain and simple. This man was able to go toe to toe with Kuroto with a Proto Gashat and a Level X Gashat. You’re only at half that power and can barely stand.
>Write in

1d20 for any choice.

Rolled 5 (1d20)

>>4055632
>Fight. This Kiriya guy probably won’t let you get away and with your concussion, you’re not sure how far you can run. If you can beat him however, maybe you can get some information out of him. Maybe even find a way to end the game once and for all.

Rolled 16 (1d20)

>>4055632
>Run. Plain and simple. This man was able to go toe to toe with Kuroto with a Proto Gashat and a Level X Gashat. You’re only at half that power and can barely stand.
Uh-uh.

Rolled 14 (1d20)

>>4055632
>Run. Plain and simple. This man was able to go toe to toe with Kuroto with a Proto Gashat and a Level X Gashat. You’re only at half that power and can barely stand.

>>4055701
>>4055661
Fucking booking it! Writing.

”So...uhh...if there’s nothing you wanna talk about...I’m just gonna go. Have a good day!” You say as you breathe fire at Kiriya. The flames engulf him but he merely shakes it off. Fortunately for you, that wasn’t the point. Using the flames to obscure Kiriya’s vision, you dash away in the opposite direction. You manage to stumble away for a block before you hear the sound of a bolt of energy cutting through the air. The blast hits a car near you and explodes, sending your flying from the blast.

You land on your back and groan as your vision goes out and your ears ring violently. Above the din of screaming, fire and ringing, you hear the sound of heavy footsteps making their way towards you. ”Great...he’s the damn terminator…” You groan as you push your screaming body to get a move on. Kiriya manages to make his way towards you and the two exchange blows. Kiriya swings for you head but you manage to raise your arm and block the attack, stepping in to limit his range of movement and smash your elbow into his head before bringing your other hand in and grabbing his neck. You slam him twice into a lamppost, denting it, before throwing him aside and running away once more.

You draw out your grappling hook and spin it as you run trying to find a good place to hook it onto and swing away.

Another blast of energy explodes nearby but luckily you manage to be far enough away to not be knocked off your feet. As you’re running you see several points where you can swing from.

>A nearby fire escape. You can latch onto that and swing up on to it and then to the roof of the building.
>An overpass with a busy road going underneath it. You can jump over the fence, hook your grapple to it and swing underneath it. From that position you can attempt to land on a passing car or swing back around and behind Kiriya if he follows you to the bridge.
>Not really swing but you can latch your hook onto a manhole cover and fling it at Kiriya. From there you can escape down the sewers.
>Or don’t try to swing. Keep running and see if there’s a place where you can untransform or simply hide in. (Write if you’ll untransform or stay in your suit as your try to hide.)
>Write in.

1d20-1 rolls as your concussion is starting to get worse.

Rolled 14 + 1 (1d20 + 1)

>>4055788
>An overpass with a busy road going underneath it. You can jump over the fence, hook your grapple to it and swing underneath it. From that position you can attempt to land on a passing car or swing back around and behind Kiriya if he follows you to the bridge.

Rolled 9 - 1 (1d20 - 1)

>>4055788
>An overpass with a busy road going underneath it.

Rolled 1 - 1 (1d20 - 1)

>>4055788
>Not really swing but you can latch your hook onto a manhole cover and fling it at Kiriya. From there you can escape down the sewers.
Can't lead him yo civilians.

>>4055796
>>4055888
Overpass but these rolls. Gonna hurt. Writing.

>>4055923
Yes it's me. Forgot my tag thing.

>>4055788
The overpass would probably give you the best shot. If you climb up to the roof of the houses, he could follow, if you tried to go down the sewers then you’d run the risk of limiting your mobility too much. Kiriya jumps and comes crashing down on you with his bow split into. You try to twist around and avoid the attack but the blades manage to clip into your back. Sparks fly as you stumble forward. You try to swing at him but the angle it too awkward and you miss completely. Your vision swirls and threatens to go dark as you flail around. Kiriya rewards your attempts with another kick to your side and you fly across the street like a rag doll. Luckily closer to your target. You roll away from another attack, Kiriya’s sickle’s digging deep into the concrete. You swing your leg in a mad attempt to gain some level of control over the fight. Your heart races as you feel it connect and Kiriya is sent sprawling backwards. Picking yourself up, you make a mad dash to the overpass spinning your grappling hook as you desperately try to get away. You jump over the high fence, latch your hook into it and begin your swing underneath the bridge.

Kiriya, however, had other plans. He brings up his sickles and slashes at the fence, slicing effortlessly like string. Without an anchor point, you fall straight into oncoming traffic! It all goes by in a blur as you hear screeching, feel yourself collide with something heavy, and hear glass shatter and metal crunch under your weight. As your vision fades in and out, you can see Kiriya leap down from the overpass directly in front of you and slowly make his way towards you.

>1d20-2 to do...well...anything. Write ins allowed. Otherwise I’ll go by what is rolled.

Rolled 2 - 2 (1d20 - 2)

>>4056064
Try not to die?

Rolled 1 + 2 (1d20 + 2)

>>4056064

>>4056122
>>4056111
>>4056122
>>4056111
Jesus Christ... I uhhh...give me some time. I gotta head to work.

Rolled 15 - 2 (1d20 - 2)

>>4056147

>>4056190
Oof...now I'm in a bind. That's a nice roll but I've already counted the votes. Hmm...

>>4056200
Meet halfway?

>>4056209
Yeah best idea. Alright I'm gonna brain storm how to write this. I have a vague idea and, if I go with it, it won't look pretty but just bear with me on it. I'll start writing when I get home from work.

You scream mentally to do something, anything, as you hear the crunch of asphalt under Kiriya’s boots approach you but your body fails to comply. Soon after you feel it. Kiriya stomps his foot right on your chest, pinning you down. The hood of the poor car underneath you crunches some more as the impact dents the metal even further. You hear what you can only assume to be the engine crash onto the ground as the attack pops it out of it’s rigging. Kiriya leans down and slowly pulls out your Gashats.

Gashun…

Your driver announces. If you weren’t half unconscious you would’ve sworn there was a hint of sadness in it’s tone. You feel your Drago Knight armor despawn as Kiriya removes the first Gashat and you hear him speak for the first time.

“Drago Knight Hunter Z…” He says quietly. “I remember when Emu fooled us all to use it as a team.” He continues with a hint of amusement. “Interesting that you could wield it alone.” You try again to make your body move and take back your gear only to find yourself immobile. “This one however…” Kiriya continues as you feel him grip your personal Gashat.

Gashun…

“...I’ve never seen. I’m guessing Kuroto was behind it.”

The last of your armor dematerialized and you find yourself feeling exposed as the layer between you and and Kiriya’s armored foot vanish making you feel the full weight of the Rider on you. Kiriya pulls your Driver off of you and you can’t help but wonder.

Is this how it ends?

For the first time in your life you feel yourself facing your true mortality. No Emu holding back just to rewrite your memories, no false memories belonging to your host. Just you and a man who never met who wants you dead. You find yourself surprised when you don’t feel fear. It could be the fact that your body is slowly falling into unconsciousness. It could be the fact that you know that with your death, you helped save those Ride Players. Or maybe it's because you realize that even if you die right now...that it’s not the end. You did your part. You helped recreate NCR and they could take care of the rest.

At the precipice of your awareness you can hear a Gashat click into place. “It’s over. Bugster. I’ll admit. You were pretty feisty.” Kiriya says.

Kimewaza! Bakusou Critical Finish!

As the weapon charges up you can’t help but smile. “You know…” You say. “My brothers and I prefer to call it stubborn…” Over the roar of the Gashacon Sparrow’s energy charging you faintly hear Kiriya reply with a small chuckle.

“Yeah...I used to be really stubborn too when it came to mysteries.”

And then the world goes dark.

(Just a small snippet while I write the rest up.)

You are...Hojo Emu…

And today has been a really bad day. First, the surprise party meant for you was interrupted by some kind of trouble with Chronicle. Then you’ve been running around trying to deal with victims of an accident. Most of the victims were more or less ok. A broken limb, some bad scratches, and the luckiest only came with bruising. However, the less fortunate had to be rushed to surgery. You didn’t have to go and prep to go into the operating room but you were left tending to the families. All the while having to deal with regular patients in between. Not to mention the constant tripping and falling over.

You sigh and rub your bruised elbow as you eat your lunch with Parado...your brother. You weren’t sure how you felt about it when Reiko and Parado announced they were adopting you but it felt kind of rude to tell them no. What really surprised you was their legitimate joy over you accepting. Thinking back, you wonder why you weren’t more happy over the idea. Ever since you were a little kid you’ve always wanted a friend to play with. One who loved video games as much as you. And now you had two people not only offering to be that but also be family.

You find yourself smiling as you bite into your sandwich prompting Parado to speak up. “What’s so funny?” He asks half curious, half absent minded as he looked off into the Hospital’s parking lot.

“You should know. I thought you could read my mind.” You joke. Parado gives you a small smirk.

“Only when I’m in charge. Otherwise all I got is your memories.” He replies taking some of your chips. You laugh and nod.

“I’m just realizing that I’m finally getting those friends I always wanted when I was little.”

Parado coughs a bit and swallows his food. “Yeah...I guess you are.” He grins. “Now we just need things to settle down so we can actually sit down and play some games.” He adds as he absent mindedly looks out at the parking lot once more.

“You’ve been pretty out of it. You ok?” You ask looking in the direction Parado was staring at. He shakes his head.

“Not really...something just feels off. I can’t shake this weird feeling something’s wrong.” He says. You open your mouth to reply when you hear it.

Screeech!

The sound of tires fighting against the road as you see a very damaged ambulance race towards the hospital and come to an unsteady stop at the entrance. You and Parado instinctively get to your feet and race towards trouble. Kuroto stumbles out of the vehicle and grins at you.

“See? Never say the Game Master never does anything for his people. Of course the police might have something to say-”

“KUROTO! What the hell is going on?!” You shout. “Why’d you steal an ambulance?! It’s not even one of ours!” Kuroto’s face falls into one of frustration.

“Because. These people have game syndrome and Reiko told me to drive them here while she holds off the coroner!” He spits.

“You left Reiko alone?!” Parado shouts.

“The coroner?” You ask confused. Kuroto waves you both away.

“Yes. Yes. I left her alone and yes that meddling coroner is alive again.” He says dismissively.

“Kiriya is alive?!” You shout. Parado grabs the front of Kuroto’s suit.

“Just spit it out old man! What the hell happened!?” He shouts. Kuroto grumbles something about unrecognized heroism before continuing.

“Reiko had decided to save these people rather than hunt down the bugsters running rampant in the city. While we were riding back were we were attacked. By none other than Kamen Rider Lazer. She ordered me to drive everyone back here while she held him off. Granted she yelled about having a concussion but I have full confidence she’ll win. After all I did.” Kuroto says smugly. Parado gives you an exasperated look before pushing Kuroto away.

“Emu...we have to go and help her. I have a really bad feeling.” Parado says as security starts rushing out of the hospital.

“Parado...I have to help these people. Reiko put herself up for them. We can’t ignore them.” You protest.

“But she’s my sister. Our sister!” Parado hisses back. You wince.

“Just...I have to help…” You say quietly. “Listen let everyone know what’s going on. I’m going to get some doctors and see if I can sneak out.”

You dash into the hospital and, after picking yourself up from tripping, you manage to gather some hospital staff to help rush the Ride Players to the ER. Getting down to HQ you see only Parado, Akihito, Kuroto, and Poppy there.

“Where are the others?” You ask confused. Akihito speaks up nervously.

“Well...they’re off handling some other threats that popped up in Reiko and Kuroto’s absence. It’s only us.” He says adjusting his laptop. You nod nervously.

“Ok...so we need to find send a team to back up Reiko and another to deal with the missing bugsters. We have a handful of people with Game Syndrome so we need to find that Bakosou Bike Bugster while the others handle Kaiden.” You summarize. Parado stands up.

“I’m going after Reiko.” He says immediately. You shake your head.

“Parado, you can’t transform.”

“Yes I can! We have Mighty Brothers. That’s all I need.” He protests.

“Emu…” Poppy says quietly. “We still can’t get in touch with Taiga or Hiiro...You’re the only one left who was an original member. This is your call.” You look at her and nod slowly.

>How does Emu distribute the team? Because there’s like a million ways to do this Write ins are preferable but I’ll give you a few choices.
>You and Parado go find and back up Reiko. While Poppy and Kuroto go look for the other bugsters. Mighty Brothers is more than enough to handle Kiriya and it’s better to have him look for his sister than have him be all antsy and worried doing other things.
>You and Parado go look for the missing bugsters while you send Poppy and Kuroto after Reiko. Parado might not make the best choices while he’s this emotional so it might be best to keep him away from his sister for now.
>Tell Parado to stay here while the three of you each split up for a single task. As much as he wants to help. Mighty Brothers might hinder the both of you if you need to keep an eye on him at all times.
>Write in

>>4056694
>You and Parado go find and back up Reiko. While Poppy and Kuroto go look for the other bugsters. Mighty Brothers is more than enough to handle Kiriya and it’s better to have him look for his sister than have him be all antsy and worried doing other things.

>>4056694
>You and Parado go find and back up Reiko. While Poppy and Kuroto go look for the other bugsters. Mighty Brothers is more than enough to handle Kiriya and it’s better to have him look for his sister than have him be all antsy and worried doing other things.

>>4056694
>You and Parado go find and back up Reiko. While Poppy and Kuroto go look for the other bugsters. Mighty Brothers is more than enough to handle Kiriya and it’s better to have him look for his sister than have him be all antsy and worried doing other things.

>>4057598
>>4057596
>>4057562
Alright. WRiting.

“Parado and I will go get Reiko. Both of us should be able to handle…” You shake your head. It can’t be him. Just can’t. “We’ll go make sure she’s safe. I’ll be able to keep an eye on her concussion.” You stand up and gather your things. “Poppy. Go with Kuroto and try to find the Bakusou Bike bugster. Then go look for the other. Saving the patients comes first.” Poppy nods and Kuroto smirks.

“Finally, we get on with seeking revenge.” He says. You turn to Akihito.

“Once Graphite and Poppy’s twin get back, direct them to the side that needs the most help. We’ll keep in touch. Let’s go Parado.” You say. Parado wastes no time to keep up with you as you both make your say out.

---

You rev up the motorcycle summoned by the original Bakusou Bike Gashat trying to ignore the feeling of dread in your gut. Parado climbs on behind you and speaks quietly.

“Do you think she’s ok?”

“I don’t know. She’s always been able to handle herself. Comes out a bit worse for wear but overall ok right?” Parado nods.

“Yeah…” He says quietly.

“Then we have to trust she can keep it up.” You reply as you drive around a corner. “I’m worried about all this. Simultaneous attacks to spread us thin. Hiiro and Taiga aren’t responding. This doesn’t feel right.” Parado stays quiet.

“Gemn Corp is fighting back. This might not be just a game to them anymore.” He replies.

“It wasn’t really a game for us to begin with.” You say as you come around another corner and see...destruction. A broken down wall of a building. Various cracks and holes in the sidewalk and road. Flames flickered here and there from energy blasts and destroyed cars.

“Jesus…” Parado whispers. “We should transform.” You nod and get off the bike while putting on your Driver.

Mighty Brothers! Double X!

Gashatto!

The two of you start to make your way through the broken streets and immediately hear sounds of fighting. “She’s over there!” Parado shouts running forward and you follow closely. It seems that even as fast as you go, the fighting is always just out of sight. As you run, you hear an explosion and soon after hear the sounds of cars screeching to a halt and what you think is a crash.

“I think the fight just spilled on to civilians.” You shout as you run towards a nearby overpass. As you reach the edge you see it. Reiko, untransformed and laying broken in a pile of rubble that was once the hood of a car. Kamen Rider Lazer pointing his bow and aiming to finish her off at point blank range.

“STOP!” You scream as you jump off the overpass with your weapon drawn.

“NOOO!” Parado screams as he does the same.


>Is it gents. This is what your 13 bought you on your last rolls. You get one shot. A hard roll. Better make it a good one. Give me 1d20.
Of course...the game doesn't end if you fail. Since when has death ever been the end in Kamen Rider?

Rolled 6 (1d20)

>>4057707

>>4057709
Oh geez...

>>4057709
Ouch...we still got 2 more rolls before it's set!

Rolled 14 (1d20)

>>4057707

Rolled 18 (1d20)

>>4057707

File: highest-of-fives.gif (731 KB, 500x264)

731 KB GIF

>>4057812
My friends. Today, just this once, everyone gets to live! Writing.

Sorry guys, lost track of time and had to go to work. I'll post when I get home.

As you drop from the overpass you swing down with all your might, silently trying to will yourself to fall faster. To just make gravity work harder. It seems like your prayers are answered and your blade strikes true. You cut down from Kiriya’s shoulder and waist with Parado following up soon after with another cut from the other shoulder down.

Kiriya’s shot is thrown off and flies to the side, hitting one of the support pillars for the overpass and blasting it to pieces. Parado swings again and again, his attacks wild and unrestrained. “Kiriya? Is that really you? It’s me! She and Kuroto are with us!” You plead deflecting another shot at you into the ground. Kiriya spins and kicks Parado away before rushing you. Your blades clash as you both maneuver father into the tunnel under the overpass.

“How are you ailve? What happened? We saw you fade away.” You ask but Kiriya remains silent as he parries your attacks. Parado rushes to meet you as you both team up to fight off Kiriya. It seems that death had not robbed your opponent of his skills has he keeps up with your attacks though you’re combined assault prevent him from being able to launch a counter attack. As he slips between your attacks, Kiriya unleashes a flurry of shots at the ground near your feet. You and Parado brace for impact but as you lower your guard to see what is going on you see that Kiriya has jumped away to the top of the walls that line the sides of the road your on and is trying to make his escape.

>What do you do?
>Chase after him. You want to question him. Why is he attacking you? Even if he mistook Reiko and Kuroto as enemies, he would never stoop down to attacking an ambulance full of innocent people. How did he come back to life?
>Fall back for now. You came here for your friend not to go around chasing specters.
>Split up. You or Parado can head back while the other goes after Kiriya.
I’ll need 1d20 rolls for any choice.

Rolled 10 (1d20)

>>4058648
>Chase after him. You want to question him. Why is he attacking you? Even if he mistook Reiko and Kuroto as enemies, he would never stoop down to attacking an ambulance full of innocent people. How did he come back to life?

Rolled 12 (1d20)

>>4058648
>Chase after him. You want to question him. Why is he attacking you? Even if he mistook Reiko and Kuroto as enemies, he would never stoop down to attacking an ambulance full of innocent people. How did he come back to life?

Rolled 9 (1d20)

>>4058648
>Chase after him. You want to question him. Why is he attacking you? Even if he mistook Reiko and Kuroto as enemies, he would never stoop down to attacking an ambulance full of innocent people. How did he come back to life?
Fleeing bosses are the worst video game mechanic

>>4058969
>>4058977
>>4059205
Chasing after him. Not the greatest of rolls but it'll get you something.
>>4059205
It's also a common Kane Rider trope but uhh...He's fleeing for other reasons. Namely he has Reiko's Driver and Gashats

>>4058648
“You’re not getting away!” Parado shouts and runs past you. He leaps high into the air and lands right next to the escaping Rider while you hesitate for a bit before chasing after the two of them. Unfortunately, it seems that your opponent was anticipating this and as soon as Parado lands Kiriya is swinging his blade at him. Parado tries to side step out of the way but in his rage he had miscalculated how wide the top of the wall was and his foot slips causing him to stumble a bit. Parado’s fight to maintain balance manages to help him avoid the attack and Kiriya’s blade flies over his head.

Parado growls and steadies himself, once again swinging his sword with reckless abandon. “You get some kind of a rise out of this? Using a finishing move on an unarmored opponent? You would’ve killed her!” He shouts as his attacks miss and go wide. Kiriya ducks and drives a sickle right into Parado’s gut.

“Oh?” He says softly. “You bugsters think you’re people now?” He asks as Parado grunts in pain and doubles over Kiriya’s arm. He follows up by driving his elbow down onto Parado’s back, knocking him to the ground, and then kicking him off the wall just as you manage to jump onto it. You raise your blade defensively, glancing down at Parado to make sure he was ok. Looking back at Kiriya you ask him,

“Kiriya, why? There was innocent people in that ambulance. We’re supposed to help them! This isn’t what being a Kamen Rider is about! You’re the one who showed me that!” Kiriya turns to face you.

“Kamen Rider?” He asks. “Emu...I entrusted the fate of humanity to you. Placed my faith in you. And when I come back, what do I find? You working with the man who murdered me. And some bugster wearing my driver! The one I entrusted to you.” He spits in disgust. “No Emu. If that’s what being a Rider is about then I want no part of it. Under Chronos’s rule and within Chronicle humanity is safe. This is the way things must be.”

“No...it’s not like that Kiriya. I didn’t-” You stammer and hesitate. “This isn’t like you…” You start but Kiriya uses your hesitation to strike. The two of you duel and you desperately try to deflect his attacks but your mind is clouded, trying to make sense of the situation. Another lapse in concentration and your opponent kicks your legs from under you. You slip and fall only to feel a series of energy blasts strike you on your way down. You crash on to the hard road and look back up to the top of the wall, only to find it empty and Kiriya gone.

>What do you want to do?
>Try and continue the search for Kiriya. He can’t have gone far! With two of you, you can cover more ground.
>Go check up on Reiko. You’ve wasted time messing around with the rogue Rider and you don’t know how injured she might be beyond her concussion.
>Split up. One does the searching, the other looks around the area.

1d20 for the first and last choice.

>>4059365
>Go check up on Reiko. You’ve wasted time messing around with the rogue Rider and you don’t know how injured she might be beyond her concussion

>>4059365
>Go check up on Reiko. You’ve wasted time messing around with the rogue Rider and you don’t know how injured she might be beyond her concussion

>>4060352
>>4060339
Gonna go check out Reiko's condition. Writing.

>>4059365
You pick yourself up and undo your transformation. Parado grunts and jogs over to you. “We have to go get him! We can’t let him get away with this.” He argues and glaring at where Kiriya was. You shake your head.

“No, we need to see how Reiko is doing. That’s why we came here in the first place.” You remind him. Parado’s face falls and his eyes widen.

“Shit!” He says panicking and runs off towards the wreck, with you following close behind. Reiko lays on the ruined hood with her limbs splayed out. Much to your relief they’re not bent in wrong angles but that’s a small relief when compared to the myriad of bruises and cuts littered around her body. Parado hold his, and your sister's hand. “Hey come on. You gotta get up. Don’t do this to me again. Please.” He pleads. You rush over and pull a first aid kit that you brought from the hospital. You pull out a small vial encased in cotton and wire. Giving it a bend, you break the glass within and spill it’s contents onto the cotton before holding it under Reiko’s nose. For a moment nothing happens before she snaps wide awake in a coughing fit. She gags and rubs her nose before stopping mid way and holding her chest.

“That’s...ugh...not the best way to wake up.” She winces and groans. “What’s wrong with me…” She moans. “Hurts to breathe. Hurts to be alive.” Parado looks at you wide eyed seeking an explanation.

“Smelling salts.” You explain holding Reiko still. You gently press against the side of her chest making her blush and try to bat away your hand before hissing in pain. “And I think some broken ribs.”

“Good because it’d be awkward if you didn’t find anything.” Reiko replies holding her head. “Head’s killing me.”

“Anything else hurting?” You ask blushing harder as you realize how it must’ve looked. You never understood how Hiiro could examine a patient without being bashful. Reiko nods.

“Arm burns like hell. I think it’s swollen. I can’t lift it right.” She replies. You can confirm that it’s swelling up pretty bad.

“Probably broken too. But with your healing it probably won’t be too bad. The ribs might take a bit longer. For humans it usually takes weeks and worst case months to heal. And that’s with them not exerting themselves. Something I doubt you’re gonna do.” Reiko gives you a pained grin.

“Welcome to the family.” She says. You motion Parado to help you get Reiko on to her feet. “So who was that guy. He seemed to have history with Kuroto.” She asks. You glance away and stay quiet. Parado simply lifts his sister in his arms much to her annoyance. “I can walk Parado...come on guys. You know something don’t you?”

>How do you respond?
>Tell Reiko you don’t want to talk about it right now. She needs medical attention first.
>Lie to her. Tell her you don’t know what that guy’s deal is.
>Tell her the truth. It’s a bit of a long story but Reiko’s injuries don’t seem to dangerous right now.
>Tell her to ask Kuroto. He murdered Kiriya, so he should be the one to tell the story even if he only knows a small portion of it.

>>4060496
>Tell Reiko you don’t want to talk about it right now. She needs medical attention first.

>>4060499
>Tell Reiko you don’t want to talk about it right now. She needs medical attention first.

>>4060517
>>4060658
We don't wanna talk about it. Dead friend hurt our feelings. Writing.

File: vlcsnap-2017-06-11-09h25m(...).png (219 KB, 600x338)

219 KB PNG

“I don’t want to talk about it.” You say quietly and start walking off towards the hospital. You weren’t sure if you could handle telling Reiko what was going on right now. Your mind swirling confused emotions made it hard to think how you wanted to word everything. Was Kiriya right? Did humanity’s fate come first before all else? No. You were sure that didn’t feel right but why would Kiriya go on a rampage like that? Was he lying again? Was this another of his tricks? You shake your head and close your eyes.

As you deal with these thoughts, you heard Reiko say, “Oh...sorry.” but you don’t feel like responding because even among all these doubts, all these thoughts, one question reigns surpeme.

Who is Chronos?

---

Please. I’m scared…

Reiko’s last text echoes in your mind. You nervously wring your hands and look around the room once again. You’ve been trapped, for lack of a better term, in the CEO office of Gemn Corp. The only exit guarded by two Bugsters. Had you had your Driver you could have fought your way out. Had you had your phone, you could have at least comforted your girlfriend. But Masamune had taken both away from you.

”My apologies Taddle Fantasy, but until you’ve proven your loyalty to the company, which I do not doubt you will, I’m going to have to restrict your access to company property and outside communication.”

Those were his last words before you two finished talking. Soon after he and Kiriya had left to God knows where leaving you alone to your thoughts. You bury your face in your hands and try to keep yourself composed. But every time you do so the same thoughts kept creeping back into your mind.

He can bring back Saki. He can bring back the dead.

You moved one you thought. You had Reiko. You love her and there’s no doubt she feels the same for you but...Saki. The sole reason you became a Kamen Rider. He could bring her back. Did you want her back? Was it too cruel to think that you didn’t or was it worse to think that you did?

The door opens and you look up to see Masamune walk in, humming quietly to himself. He turns to face you with a business like smile. “Forgive me but I had a small announcement I had to make to my people. Nothing you need to worry yourself about.” He says as he takes a seat at the CEO’s desk. Steepling his fingers, he continues, “Now, I mentioned proving your loyalty to the company earlier-”

“You’re a fool if you think I’d help you terrorize the city.” You interrupt but Masamune remains unfazed. He waggles his finger as if chiding a child.

“No Taddle Fantasy, you’d be a fool to ignore what I’m offering you.” He counters. “You see I have some news regarding your coworkers. Lazer Turbo, if you please?” With that Kiriya enters. He gives you a smirk as he holds up a Driver and a pair of Gashats. A strange new one and Drago Knight Hunter Z. It takes a moment to process what you see. The last person you saw with it was...Reiko…

You stand up, “You didn’t!” You shout. “She’s not-”

“No. Unfortunately, it still lives. A shame, I was hoping to promote Mighty Action X next. But it seems he has shown where his loyalty lies. That however...is where you lie. I promise you your lost love and all you need to do is kill the bugster.” Masamune replies.

“I won’t kill her!” You shout. “She’s not some animal to be put down! She has a life and feelings!”

“It is a glitch and a menace to my game!” Masamune says raising his voice. “It is a mistake and has upset the balance of Chronicle! The glitch should not exist! Bugsters and humans should not be working together. Listen to me Taddle Fantasy. With my power, death no longer has meaning. People can be brought back to life. They can face dangers, be heroes all without risking their lives. All they need to do is simply agree to my terms and services. I can bring back the ones you love.” Masamune stands from his desk and paces.

“I understand, much like your friends that glitch has enthralled you. Made you forget who you once were with lies. Didn’t you become a Kamen Rider to avenge Saki? Didn’t you want to make sure Graphite could never hurt anyone again? But now look at where you are right now. The man who murdered your love was standing in your home. In your base and with a few words that accident is keeping you from avenging Saki. All while the bugsters are laughing behind your back. Just look at Lazer Turbo. He’s in the same situation you are. The people he trusted, the man he put all his faith to save the city, is working with the man who murdered him and even acting like they’re all friends. All because of a single bugster. Doesn’t that strike you as odd Taddle Fantasy? That a single person has changed the course of a war? That somehow, this one person has brought together the two factions that were willing to kill one another without remorse.” Masamune shakes his head.

“I understand that this is a lot to take in. Especially after you’re slowly losing the effects of whatever power she has over you. But I will ask one thing and then I shall indulge you in a few questions. Saki couldn’t get your attention while you studied. You brushed her off. I understand, it is a painful memory and I am sorry to remind you of it. But in pain there is truth. And I must point out that you brought the bugster into your home. She managed to make you break that mold of yours. The cold calculating demeanor of the world’s best surgeon. Something...not even the woman you wanted to marry could do. If you help me. I can give you that chance again. The chance to propose.” Masamune looks away from his window and faces you. His expression serious.

“Now. If you have questions I will answer them.”

>What will Hiiro ask the man who promises him to make things go back to they once were?
>Ask him about bugsters. Chronicle needs them so that humans can continue to fight. The way he explains things, it sounds like he wants to wipe them all out. And if not, how will things change if they remain rampant within the city?
>Ask him were Lovelica is. Before Masamune became CEO, he was in charge.
>Ask him...ask him to prove he can bring Saki back to life. You’re not giving up on Reiko just yet...or maybe what he says makes too much sense. It doesn’t matter either way because you just want to see her...if only for one last time.
>Ask him how he intends to cheat death. It’s obvious he brought back Kiriya back but how would he help regular humans.
>Ask what he intends to do with the others. Poppy, Emu, Taiga, and the rest.
>Write in.

>>4061019
>>Ask him about bugsters. Chronicle needs them so that humans can continue to fight. The way he explains things, it sounds like he wants to wipe them all out. And if not, how will things change if they remain rampant within the city?
>Ask what he intends to do with the others. Poppy, Emu, Taiga, and the rest.
>Ask him how he intends to cheat death. It’s obvious he brought back Kiriya back but how would he help regular humans.

>>4061960
Slow day today. But I'll take these. Probably gonna be a long post. Writing.

“The bugsters.” You start, “You’re going to wipe them out? Doesn’t Chronicles need them?” Masumune nods.

“As I’ve said, death no longer means anything while Chronicles is on going for both humans and bugsters.” He says. “All who suffer a Game Over can be brought back. All bosses defeated will eventually respawn. Much like in any game.”

“But that won’t change anything. Bugsters will still run rampant. Humans will die to create them. How is that any different than it is now?” You point out frustrated.

“Gemn Corp’s management has been...lackluster I agree. Partially thanks to my incarceration. But all that was part of the plan. Dangerous Zombie played his part, and so did Amagasaki. I however will be less lenient when it comes to bugsters. While an interesting concept of allowing them to act on their own, I’m afraid that development will need to be patched out as you have seen. All it took was a single glitched bugster and both sides have become unbalanced. Once the bugsters have been discontinued. I will proceed to create a new generation of them that will only adhere to their designated programming and as such they will be much easier to control.”

“So you’ll take away their freedom...and turn them into mindless animals.” You growl.

“That freedom was something Gemn Corp chose to grant them. And they squandered it. They were given an open playground that was this city. All they had to do was fight humans and be hunted down. Instead they chose to try and revolt. I will not allow insubordination in my company. I understand that you might consider some of them your friends but remember, they were created to kill humans. Unless you mean to tell me you fully trust Parado and Graphite?”

You grimace and look away. Truth be told, you had your reservations about them. Especially Graphite. But they had fought alongside you to save the hospital. Masamune continues.

“It all comes back to her doesn’t it? The glitch. From what Amagaski told me, she was the one who “talked” them into it. Into helping you. A bit suspicious isn’t it? How do you know she’s not planning something. To destroy you all from within?”

You glare at Masamune. “First to you tell me that she’s ruining the game by putting both sides together. Now you’re saying she’ll betray us! She’s been saving lives! Human lives. So why don’t you get your lies straight!”

Masamune raises his hands in peace. “You misunderstand me Taddle Fantasy. Need I remind you she turned on Parado a few days ago? As I’ve been telling you, she is a bug. Unpredictable and unstable. What if you say something wrong? Upset her? If she has the ability to break the game as it is now, what if she focuses her efforts against you? From my understanding, for a while, she thought she was a human. She’s not stable.”

You clench your fists and try not to think of that. “What about the others? Emu, Taiga, Poppy, Kuroto...what will you do to them?” You ask quietly. Masamune nods quietly. “Ah...concern for your coworkers. Understandable. Mighty Action X has proven his disloyalty. He cannot be trusted but I am not unreasonable. I will give him the choice to hand over company property and then he will be dismissed. He will be an ordinary player in Chronicle, free to live his life as everyone else does. The others will be offered the same. They may continue their roles as arbiters in Chronicle and as special bosses or they can hand their equipment in. Of course probation periods will be enacted but should they pass then their positions in the company will be guaranteed.”

“And Poppy? She’s a bugster. What about Kuroto?”

“The bugster and her copy will follow the of her kind. They will be discontinued and brought back in the next generation as guides for Chronicle. As for Dangerous Zombie? I’m afraid he cannot be allowed to continue is actions. He will be discontinued along with the rest and will remain that way. He is a liability and is maybe attempt another take over again. I’m sure you agree that he’s too unpredictable to trust.”

You nod. No matter how much the others trusted him, Kuroto was insane and there was no guarantee he wouldn’t try something. He already did once before. “So you’ll kill him then? And not revive him? What about other people? How will you revive them? How will you bring back Saki?”

“Proto Gashats.” Masamune says smiling broadly. He walks over to his desk and pulls out a small briefcase. He sets is gently on the desk and opens it revealing a set of black Gashats, each titled with the name of a game. Including Taddle Quest and Bang Bang Shooting. “Held within these Gashats is the data of every person who has ever died in Chronicle.” He pulls one from the briefcase, Drago Knight Hunter Z. “Saki is in here.” He says holding it up. You take a step forward before you catch yourself.

“Yes, Graphite’s game. Because he was her killer, her data lies with in his game. The same applies with all the other games and their relevant bugsters. Mighty Action X for Parado, DoReiMiFa Beat for Poppy Pipopapo. All of humanity is safe within these devices.” Masamune puts the devices away.

You eye the briefcase unsure how to process the information beyond asking more questions at the moment.

>Will Hiiro ask more questions?
>Yes
>No

>If yes what does he ask? (You can ask two more questions)
>Ask him were Lovelica is. Before Masamune became CEO, he was in charge.
>Ask him...ask him to prove he can bring Saki back to life. You’re not giving up on Reiko just yet...or maybe what he says makes too much sense. It doesn’t matter either way because you just want to see her...if only for one last time.
>Ask him what he has planned for humanity. You know what he will do with bugsters, but how does everyone else fall into play?
>Ask why he chose you specifically? Taiga was the original Kamen Rider from Gemn Corp. Wouldn’t he be a better candidate? Emu is a genius Gamer. Surely that qualifies him as well.
>Write in.

>>4062454
>Yes
>Ask him...ask him to prove he can bring Saki back to life. You’re not giving up on Reiko just yet...or maybe what he says makes too much sense. It doesn’t matter either way because you just want to see her...if only for one last time.
>Ask why he chose you specifically? Taiga was the original Kamen Rider from Gemn Corp. Wouldn’t he be a better candidate? Emu is a genius Gamer. Surely that qualifies him as well.

>>4062454
>Yes
>Ask him...ask him to prove he can bring Saki back to life. You’re not giving up on Reiko just yet...or maybe what he says makes too much sense. It doesn’t matter either way because you just want to see her...if only for one last time.

>>4062587
>>4062578
Alright. I'll take these questions. Writing.

“Why me?” You ask finally bringing your gaze back to Masamune. “Taiga and Emu are both equally as qualified. A Genius Gamer and the First Kamen Rider.”

Masamune smiles. “Because there is nothing you will not cut.” He replies. “You hold the determination that only the world’s greatest surgeon can possess and the willingness to move forward with your goals no matter the cost. Emu is blinded by his emotions and his tendency to become personally involved with his patients. Taiga was a failure as a Kamen Rider and we both know why.” You clench your fists harder. Graphite. “You have also shown an impressive will power as evidenced by your taming of your dual Gashat. Fighting off two Gashats worth of the virus is no small feat. That is why you were chosen Taddle Fantasy. You are a man with the determination and will power to do what no other will do. If we are to proceed with Chronicle, then I will need someone like that on my side.”

“I see.” You reply quietly. Perhaps that was true. You were always investing all you could into whatever task you had in front of you. Getting your medical degree, becoming the best doctor in the world, taking on jobs no other doctor would. Ever since her death, you had used what pushed her away to help others. You may have become withdrawn and distant but that was for the best if it meant saving lives.

“Isn’t this what you wanted as a doctor?” Masamune asks. “A world where people no longer need to fear dying. Where you always know that your loved ones will come back?” You don’t respond.

“I want one more thing.” You say softly. Masamune tilts his head. “I want to see her...prove that you can bring her back to life.” Masamune smile softly.

“I see...perhaps I could advance you a small favor…” He says pulling a BugVisor and Gashat from his suit’s inner pocket. You feel as if your body is being pulled away from you and the world goes heavy for a moment. In that brief instant, less than a blink of an eye, the day has become night and only the moon’s light illuminates Masamune’s form.

File: kamen_rider_cronus_smartp(...).jpg (149 KB, 670x1191)

149 KB JPG

“Today you will see the power of Chronus…” Masamune clicks his gashat and an ominous tone announces the title,
Kamen Rider Chronicle

Masamune smirks as he slots it into the BugVisor,
Henshin.

Gashatto...

The world seems to come to a halt as time itself seem to be unable to comprehend what had happened was trying to catch up. A neon green energy envelops Masamune as his driver announces the presence of an all new Rider.

Take hold of the sky, Rider...

Forward through time, Chronicle...

The end of time is here!

”Kamen Rider Chronus.”

Chronus removes his driver from his belt and slots in the Drago Knight Proto Gashat into it. ”Behold Taddle Fantasy, the true power of Kamen Rider Chronicle!” A beam of light shoots out from the driver and into the floor a foot away from Chronus. Slowly a woman fades in, the exact same effect you saw on Saki as she died but in reverse.

“S-Saki…” You whisper as you slowly make your way towards the woman you once loved. You’re stopped by Kiriya as he blocks your path. “Stand aside coroner!” You shout trying to push your way past. Kiriya smirks at you but doesn’t relent. Masamune nods and pushes a button on his Driver causing Saki to shatter into nothingness. “SAKI!” You scream holding out your hand in a desperate attempt to catch something. Anything of her.

“No Taddle Fantasy. I don’t believe you’ve earned that right. I can take her away as easily as I can return her to you. But as you can see. I do not make things up.” He crosses his arms behind his back. ”But the time for conversation is over. In exchange for your loyalty, I offer you the woman you love. In exchange for work, I promise you a world without death. Will you join me Taddle Fantasy? Will you bring Chronicle to fruition?”

>Does Hiiro join Masamune?
>Yes. Maybe Masamune is right. It’s all too convenient. The rebirth of NCR, the bugsters coming over to help humans. That aside, isn’t this what everyone strives for? A world where death is nothing to fear? You’d be lying if that was your only motive. All your life you’ve worked for the sake of others. Sacrificing your personal life, your love, your friends. Is it really so much to ask, just this once, to be selfish? Just to have her back again?
>No. This is all too good to be true. Even if he can bring back the dead. What is the cost? The genocide of an entire race and subsequent enslavement as they’re reprogrammed to be mindless animals? Could you sleep at night knowing that you had helped with that? But in doing so would you be willing to sacrifice Saki’s life? And the others in the ProtoGashats?
>Write in? Not really sure what but it’s kind of hard to do more than yes or no.

I guess yes but only do it as a way to inflitrate gemn corp works too.

>>4062927
>Yes but only do it as a way to inflitrate gemn corp

Well I need to head off to work. I hate late shifts but what am I gonna do? Vote is open until tomorrow. Big decision. Personally I feel like I wrote well enough that Hiiro could decide either way with Masamune making a convincing enough argument to make him say yes and his time at NCR being enough for him to say no. But that's just how I feel. Any advice is always welcome. See ya guys!

>>4062927
Yes. Just yes

>>4062942
>>4063098
Looks we got a bit of a tie. Both are yes but for different reasons. Still time for votes as I'm still at work for a few more hours.

>>4064494
I'll switch to just regular yes.

>>4064546
Gottcha. Looks like someone is gonna be heartbroken then. I got a break in about an hour so I'll tally any votes by then.
Inb4 this is the start of ReikoxKiriya

>>4062927
>>4062927
>No. This is all too good to be true. Even if he can bring back the dead. What is the cost? The genocide of an entire race and subsequent enslavement as they’re reprogrammed to be mindless animals? Could you sleep at night knowing that you had helped with that? But in doing so would you be willing to sacrifice Saki’s life? And the others in the ProtoGashats?
Goddammit Hiro

>>4062927
>No

Torn between no or yes to infiltrate

>>4063098
>>4064546
>>4064616
>>4064666
Vote's are in and...it's a tie! Between full yes and no. Alright I'll give another 15mins before I just do the good ol coin toss. Still...I'm happy theres so many voters.

Rolled 1 (1d2)

Alright coin toss time.
1=yes
2=no

We breaking gamer girl's heart today?

Gotta admit it though, Reiko is suspicious as fuck because of the godly friendship rolls we manage to pull out of our ass all the time. But then again that's Kamen Rider for you. Or it could just be that Masamune is a big liar.

>>4064757
Huh...I was honestly expecting a 2. Writting. Posting from my phone so no formatting. Sorry about that.

>>4062927
Your eyes remain locked where Saki once stood, your arm still outstretched trying to reach her. You fight back tears and shove Kiriya away as turn your back to the two. You thought you had moved on. So why did it hurt so much to see her again? But what about Reiko?

You grit your teeth and try to push that thought away. She was too good to be true. Masamune had a point. As much as you hated to admit it, he made sense. Out of nowhere she appeared and slowly brought everyone back together. Turned enemies into allies and somehow brought back Kuroto from the dead. More importantly she had latched on to you. For what reason? You always brushed her off. Gave her no reason to want to be with you. And yet, you found yourself coming back to her. Worrying about her. She had done nothing but ask for your help once, and from then on she lingered around you and you found yourself more and more attached to her.

What had happened to never getting personally involved with a patient? What had happened to only caring about getting the job done? Images of Reiko flash through your mind. Of her smiling and holding on to you, burying her face in your shoulder, you running your fingers through her snowy white hair. You shake your head trying to clear them. No, it was too convenient. You suddenly falling in love with a patient. Maybe she had some power to control a person’s emotions. She was a bugster and they wanted to destroy humanity. Why would that suddenly change? Why would Graphite of all people agree to suddenly help humans? There must be something behind it all.

You turn to Masamune and nod. “Alright. I’ll...I help you. If only for Saki.” You say quietly. Chronus nods and untransforms.

“Excellent. Welcome to the company. Taddle Legacy.” He holds out his hand for you to shake, a professional smile of a business well done on his face. You take it and shake, his grip firm and confident. Again you try to push away your lingering feelings for Reiko. This was for Saki, and your other feelings were probably due to some sort of manipulation. After all, you could never truly fall in love with bugster.

...Couldn’t you?
---

The air in NCR was heavy and quiet. Everyone was sitting around the table thinking to themselves trying to figure out what was going on, save for Kuroto who’s shouts in the background were ignored.

“STEAL MY GASHATS! REIKO! YOU WERE MY CHOSEN ONE! HOW DARE YOU FAIL ME!”

You rub your ribs gingerly, wincing as pain lances up your side and making it hard to breath for a moment. You look back at your phone, your messages to your boyfriend remain unanswered. Stifling a small sob, you feel a hand gently pet your head. Parado hugs you with one arm and sits next to you as you both watch Emu pace back and forth. Ever since you three arrived he hadn’t been able to sit still. You weren’t sure if you wanted to ask what was wrong but clearly something was bothering him.

“MY TALENTS! ALL STOLEN BY THAT...THAT CORONER!”

You look at Poppy and her twin, quietly conversing with each other as Graphite looks at you unamused. Akihito was rapidly tapping on his computer trying desperately to learn what Gemn Corp was trying to do. He had profusely apologized when you arrived for being unable to locate Taiga or Hiiro but you assured him that he had tried his best.

Sighing you lean against brother for support and try to get up. There was work to be done and mysteries to solve. It was best you get started or you’d be liable to nap on Parado.

>Who does Reiko want to talk with first?
>Emu, something has been bothering him a lot since you returned. You don’t like seeing your sibling like this, or anyone for that matter.
>Akihito, maybe he’s figured something out. If not, the two of you can try to brain storm ways to get information.
>Graphite, You need to take him up on his offer to train. Last fight you got completely curb stomped. If you’re going to start taking on the big bosses of Gemn Corp, you’ll need to be at your peak.
>Kuroto. You’ll need to do this eventually. You lost your gear and now you need to confront the Game Master about getting a new driver and Gashat.
>Parado. You’re worried yourself and need to vent. You don’t know why Hiiro isn’t answering and you just want someone close to you to listen.
>The Poppys. You want to know how the patients are. Maybe they can teach you a bit more about first aid incase you have to treat someone in the field.

>>4064920
>Emu, something has been bothering him a lot since you returned. You don’t like seeing your sibling like this, or anyone for that matter.

>>4064920
>>Kuroto. You’ll need to do this eventually. You lost your gear and now you need to confront the Game Master about getting a new driver and Gashat.

>>4065074
>>4064946
I'll take them both. Start with Emu and work on to Kuroto. Tears and crying incoming...maybe?

You gently pat Parado on the head and he gives you an uneasy smile as he tries to reassure you. “I’m going to go talk to Emu. I think he needs a shoulder to lean on.” You whisper and give your brother a small hug and try not to wince as your ribs flare up in pain. You stand up from your seat and quietly make your way to the pacing Emu. You tap his shoulder and he jumps in surprise as he turns to face you. “Hey.” You say softly. “You wanna talk?” Emu looks at you briefly and sighs, nodding.

“Yeah...I think I need someone to talk to.” He replies. “Meet you on the roof? It’s quieter there.” You’re pretty sure he was just making up and excuse to be alone but a sudden screech from Kuroto reminds you that there might be some truth to that statement.
---

You push open the door to the roof and helipad, only to find Emu pacing again. He stops and looks out at the city wistfully for a moment before returning to his pacing. You keep an eye on him for a moment before you knock on the door to get his attention. “Hey. You doing ok?” You ask gently as you walk into the sun. Emu stops in his tracks and looks at you. He studies you quietly for a moment before blurting out.

“Why are you a Kamen Rider?”

You look at him in surprise and slight confusion. “Sorry?” You ask. Emu rubs the back of his head.

“Why are you a Kamen Rider? Why do you keep doing it?”

You give him a look and think about it for a moment before responding. Truth be told you never did take time for introspection. Usually you went from task to task without much time to contemplate it. Now that the question was in the air, you actually had to give it some thought.

>Why is Reiko a rider?
>You got...no Emu gave you, your first driver and Gashat. That’s about it. You kind of went from fight to fight trying to get to the bottom of all this and you never really stopped once you reached your inital goal. Nothing really special.
>Because it’s the right thing to do. You have the power to help people. Maybe it’s your host’s memories filtering into your personality or maybe it really is you but once you had the power to help, then you felt that it was your responsibility to help people.
>Because you want to be a Kamen Rider that doesn’t just fight for Humanity. You want to be a Rider that helps everyone in need. Bugster or Human. If anyone has their hand out asking for help, you want there to be someone who holds out theirs to offer that help.
>Because being a Kamen Rider means you can be strong. The harder the challenge the more you get out of it. You use that strength to lift up those in need.
>Being a Kamen Rider is a means of making friends. Who says that saving lives is all about fighting. Sometimes it's as simple as bringing a smile to someone’s face.
>Being a Kamen Rider means you can solve mysteries and in doing so you help people. The truth to help people is out there. And you’ll do your part to uncover it.
>Write in

>>4066522
>Because you want to be a Kamen Rider that doesn’t just fight for Humanity. You want to be a Rider that helps everyone in need. Bugster or Human. If anyone has their hand out asking for help, you want there to be someone who holds out theirs to offer that help

>>4068783
A vote! I'll take that and will write asap.

“Because…” You says slowly. “Because Kamen Riders fight for all of humanity...and I don’t want to be that.” You say. Emu turns to look at you confused and intrigued. “I want to be a Kamen Rider that fights for everyone.” You say firmly. You move to stand next to Emu and look out into the city. “There’s bugsters out there now Emu. We’re people too. We have feelings and desires that are just as valid as humans. You always want to get a patient’s smile back right?” You ask.

Emu nods slowly. “Well what if your patient isn’t human? What if they’re a bugster? Does that make their smile less than a human’s? Does that make me less than you Emu?” You ask looking at him in the eye. “You treated me when I was dying. Why can’t we protect bugsters?”

“No...you’re not less than me.” Emu admits quietly. “You’re my friend...my adopted sibling.” He adds grinning sheepishly.

You shoot a grin back and study the clouds quietly. “I know we’re fighting bugsters today. Parado says when we are first born we can only follow our programming but we slowly learn to be our own people. But I only fight them because their birth will hurt a human. We have the gashats...I hope that maybe someday in the future we can give them proper lives without costing someone else’s. That’s why I fight. Because I want to be a Rider that protects anyone. Humans, bugsters, and anyone else we might find.” You say with determination. You look back at Emu and your expression softens a bit.

“So...what’s with you? That question was kind of out of the blue...and you’ve been kind of on edge since we got back.” You ask him. You put your hand on his shoulder and smile at him. “You can talk to me. I’m always here to listen...lately that’s all I’ve really been good for.”

Emu tries to give you back a confident smile but it wavers under his doubt. “I just...Am I a good Kamen Rider? Have I been doing the right thing?” You tilt your head confused at the questions.

“What’s with those questions?” You ask. “You’re usually more headstrong about these things.”

Emu’s shoulders slump. “It’s just...with my fight against Kiriya he just brought up a few things.” He says sitting down and holding his knees. You sit next to him. “Kiriya was one of the first of us. He was a liar, tricked us multiple times, and when he was finally coming clean it got him killed. He was the one who discovered Kuroto was behind the bugsters and Chronicle and Kuroto killed him for it.” Emu explains. He looks up to the sky like you did.

“He was the one who helped me figure out what it was to be a rider. To protect people’s smiles and stop Chronicle. He entrusted his driver to me. Said that the fate of humanity was in my hands. That he left it to me to finish.” He says as his voice trails off. “It’s the one I gave you…”

“Oh…” You say quietly. “He kind of took that back.” You mumble as you mess with your hair. Emu nods.

“But now...I’m working along with the man who killed him. I’m working alongside bugsters and trying to save them rather than stop them.” Emu sighs. “Am I still a Kamen Rider? Or have I been doing it wrong all this time? I feel like I failed Kiriya but at the same time it feels wrong to do it any other way. The Kiriya I knew wouldn’t ever attack an ambulance full of innocent people. So why does what this one say hurt me?”

You stay quiet unsure of how to respond.

>What do you tell Emu?
>Tell him that he’s doing the right thing. Giving people a chance to redeem themselves. Isn’t it Justice to give someone the chance to fight for others? Riders are here to protect people even if the definition of People changes.
>Tell him that Kiriya doesn’t dictate who he is. Especially one that’s acting out of character according to him.
>Ask what he intends to do about Kiriya. He’s back from the dead apperantly and he’s going to be an issue if he continues to fight against NCR
>Just hug him and let him know everything will be ok. This isn’t really an issue you can help him with. Figuring out what it means to be a Rider is something he needs to find out himself.
>Write in.

>>4069518
>Tell him that he’s doing the right thing. Giving people a chance to redeem themselves. Isn’t it Justice to give someone the chance to fight for others? Riders are here to protect people even if the definition of People changes.

You pat Emu’s back. “I think you’re doing the right thing...” You say. “You’re giving people a chance to change. Who says being a Rider is all about fighting and enemy? Sometimes all a person needs is a chance to make things right. Since the start we were all doing what we thought was right. Fighting for humans, fighting for bugsters...trying to find out what happened to one’s friends. Then it all sort of started changing. We saw different sides of what we were fighting for and slowly our goals changed. Just like our definition of what a person is. And that’s what I think is Justice. Sometimes the best way to beat an enemy is to make them your friend...uhh that kind of sounds weird.” You admit.

Emu snorts and smiles. “I guess you’re right. My view of who to help just widened is all. As long as I continue to try and bring back people’s smiles I supposed I haven’t really changed at all. It just happens that humans aren’t the only ones that I consider people anymore.” He says extending his legs. “But what if we meet someone who doesn’t want to change? What if there is no option but to fight to the end? Does that mean we failed? Or were we simply wrong this whole time?”

You frown. You hadn’t really thought about something like that before. Normally when you fought it was mostly to survive and to stop someone from hurting other people. In the case of bugsters, the fact they could be brought back and their lives were stored in Gashats meant that death wasn’t really the end for them. You always held out hope there was a way to bring them back without costing human lives. When it came to Ride Players you always fought to disarm and never escalated the fight beyond that. Having experienced death through your memories, you knew all too well how fragile a human life was and what having a single life meant. But up until now you had never considered the idea that maybe there might be a Ride Player who wouldn’t back down. That they’d fight to the very end and that idea unsettled you.

“I don’t really know.” You admit. “I’d like to say that if it ever comes to that, that we tried everything else first. At least then we can say we did everything we could first. I’m not sure I could ever say I’d be looking forward to it.”

“I don’t think I could either.” Emu admits. “But I think we should stick to what we’re doing. We’re saving lives right? So we must be doing something right...right?”

You grin and gently poke Emu’s forehead. “Course ya goof. That’s what I’ve been telling you. You can’t go around acting like it’s your revelation.” Emu laughs.

File: 20d3e5b3700fd41deb5349727(...).jpg (39 KB, 570x318)

39 KB JPG

“Hey! Sometimes it helps me to voice my opinions out loud before they settle in.” He relaxes and lets out a sigh of relief. “Thanks. I guess I did need someone to talk to. I can see why Parado likes to be with you.”

You laugh. “No I think he just likes the hugs. Or just to dote on me. I’ve never had siblings before all this...or I did but...nevermind. Its just... I can imagine what it would be like to lose family. So I’m guessing he’s trying to be extra careful around me now.”

“Well...he’s mellowed out more.” Emu admits. You half shrug.

“Did he? Or maybe you two have started seeing each other as lives with worth?” You say. Emu opens his mouth and closes it as he thinks. “If you look at it from his view. Humans were hunting bugsters down like animals. In your view bugsters were killing humans without remorse. It seems like you two just got lost in the frenzy.”

“And you got caught up in the middle…” Emu says quietly. You open your mouth to say something when you feel it. A heaviness and the feeling of your body being pulled away. You blink in surprise, only to find it that it was night time.

“Wha? What happened?!” Emu asks confused as he gets to his feet. You rise as well and look around. Buildings all around you were dark but were slowly coming to life as lights were being switched on. No doubt by the confused residents as they were slowly coming to terms with what is going on.

The door to the stairwell flies open and the two of you reach for your Drivers. You wince as your bag and pockets are empty. Parado rushes from the door, “We have a problem.” He says looking around. “And I’m guessing it’s worse that I thought…” He mutters as he stares into the night sky.
---

Back at HQ everyone huddles around the meeting table as you watch a recording of a live broadcast. “It started out bad.” Akihito explains. “A breaking news story about…” He shuffles around nervously.

“About our fight with Kiriya.” Poppy continues. “There was a lot of damage but it was the ambulance attack that got everyone’s attention.” The news report shows a still image of the ambulance Kuroto drove sitting in front of the hospital. Police were walking around it and tape was being set to quardon off the area. Suddenly however the feed cuts out.

“And this is where the trouble began. The news feed was hijacked, right around the time we all felt that weird pull and everything turned to night.” Parado points out. The static slowly fades away revealing a Kamen Rider. Dressed in neon green and with a helmet adorned with spikes. He stands there for a moment before crossing his arms behind his back and speaking.
”Good evening Ladies and Gentlemen of Seito City. I am Kamen Rider Chronus and I’m here to introduce you to the next phase of Kamen Rider Chronicle…

With that, I feel like it's a good place to end this thread. It's kind of buried now that it's not being bumped anymore but I also don't want to spam thread after thread. What do you guys think? should I make a new one or just continue this one? It's barely got 100 posts so I don't mind going on.

I need to head to work so I'll see what people think later.

>>4070067
New thread, always. Making one every 5 days would be annoying, but doing it after ending a chapter isn't