KS: (sighs) This was much longer than I wanted it to be. Regardless, my spirit as a writer refuses to waver, so I continue to persist. Also, I want to say this here and now: for anyone who is going to talk smack about Hachiman's current personality and how it is detrimental to this fic, I politely ask you to see yourselves out. I am looking for contstructive criticism, not flames from ignorant trolls. Alright, that's enough from me. Enjoy the fic.

Night had fallen on the town of Kuoh. Every corner was dead with silence, which was filled by the sounds of a bike chain rattling. A patrolman rode around the neighborhood, looking for anything out of the ordinary.

"This patrol has gotten uneventful," he muttered. "I like how quiet this town is, but sometimes it's too quiet. Makes me wonder what's the point in scoping things out at night.

He turned a corner and hit the brakes, getting of his bike. He picked up the flashlight and turned it on, looking around for anything odd.

"I'll just look around here and head back to the station," he said. "There's absolutely no way that something weird is going on here."

He walked around and shined his light near every corner that evaded the street lights, but nothing interesting was seen.

"Another boring patrol." he muttered. "I'll head back, fill my report and call it a night."

Before could reach his bike, the patrolman heard a muffled sound coming from above. He aimed his light upward, what he saw caused his blood to go cold.

"What in the nine hells is that?"

A large, cocoon-like object was latched onto the light post, and inside of it was a young man.

(Theme: "All My Life" by Daiki Kasho)

(Opening vocals) The sun rises and shines upon Hunter's armor, which glows in the light as he watches a swarm of dragons fly over him.

(Walk for a thousand miles down this road) Cuts to Hachiman walking past the school gate with Sona and Tsubaki rapidly lecturing him, which he pays no mind to.

(I don't know where its taking me) Pans to Rias and the ORC, who are standing a few feet away, watching him with interest.

(I feel I must carry on) Cuts to Hachiman again, being harrassed by Issei, only to knock him into the jaws of the irate kendo club, ready to beat the stuffing out of him.

(So that I can justify my everything) Hachiman walks off while taking out the Monster Amulet of Rathalos out of his pocket, the object glowing bright red.

(Past is what, past is what will be cast) Cuts to a silohette of Hachiman walking forward as Komachi and Nezumi are shown in the background, the former grinning and the latter with a neutral expression.

(You will be alright, be alright, 'cause I'll be me) The background changes to the ORC in their club room.

('Cause I know, 'cause I know that I'll prove myself) The background changes to a group of shadowed people with a logo reading "Elysium Corporation."

(In the end, I will be standing here) Shifts to Hachiman holding Rathalos' amulet and inserting it into the Hunter Driver, causing him to transform into Hunter.

(All my life, I've lived alone) Shifts to Hunter fighting against multiple monsters.

(This is a path I have to take) Shifts to Hunter swinging a great sword, then shooting a bowgun and thrusting with a insect glave.

(Shan't go back to who I was) Cuts to Hunter gathering flames around him with Rathalos behind him before jumping into the air.

(This is my time to break away) Hunter performs a diving kick as he decends with flames following him.

(Just break away) Cuts to Hunter using a multitude of weapons, along with performing melee attacks.

(From who I was) The screen glitches to reveal a girl concealed by shadows, with only her frown visible.

(Just break away) Cuts to Hunter driving down the road on his Dragon Shifter.

(From who I was) Hunter brakes and performs a skid before stopping and looking at the camera.

Chapter 3: Whispers in the Dark

The following morning, the majority of Kuoh's student body stood in the gymnasium. Whispers of confusion were heard amongst the large crowd.

"What's with the sudden assembly?"

"I don't know. We were just told to come here."

"This had better be good. I was finally finishing up on an assignment, only to get sidetracked by this crap."

Among the crowd, Hachiman and Nezumi stood near the center, barely registering the hushed chatter around them.

"I wonder what happened," Hachiman said.

"Whatever it was, we're about to find out right now," Nezumi replied.

Soon enough, Sona walked up on stage and stepped to the podium. Almost immediately, the crowd fell silent, allowing her to speak.

"Good morning, students of Kuoh Academy," she said in a serious tone. "I am sure you are all wondering what the purpose of this assembly is."

Nothing was heard from the crowd.

"I shall be blunt then," Sona said, hardening her features. "Last night, someone was found in a cocoon."

Immediately, whispers erupted from the crowd, surprised by what they had heard.

"A cocoon? What the hell is she playing at?"

"If this is her idea of a joke, it's very tasteless."

"This doesn't sound like a joke. I mean, look at her face. Does that look like the face that would crack a joke like this?"

The chatter continued for a moment before Sona made a gesture with her hands, making everyone fall silent again.

"I'm sure many of you are shocked from hearing this, and are worried about what will happen next," she said. "But rest assured, the police department are already at work trying to determine who or what is responsble for such a contemptable act. That being said, the faculty has made a decision that until this issue is resolved, all clubs will be cancelled until further notice. That means all you must head home immediately and remain there. Do not stop at any shops or hang out at parks. Go. Straight. Home. I should remind you that we have zero tolerance for those who disregard the rules that have been set out." She spotted Hachiman in the crowd and narrowed her eyes. "Do not test me. You know who you are."

The boy in question flinched when he saw the student council president glaring at him.

"Did she just lowkey call me out?" he whispered.

"Sure looks like it," Nezumi said. "Though I doubt everyone will take out the frustration of having their clubs cancelled on you."

Hours have passed since the assembly, and the school was now having a break. Hachiman and Nezumi walked down the hall, passing students who gave the former cold stares or heated glares.

"Are you sure they're not going to take it out on me?" Hachiman asked.

"They're not that petty, dude," Nezumi replied with a dismissive wave of his hand. "When have I ever steered you wrong?"

Hachiman sighed. "You got a point. Still, if a stopped clock can be right twice a day, then a running clock should be wrong at least once."

Nezumi looked at confusion. "That's just stupid."

Hachiman shrugged. "Doesn't matter. It's my opinion."

As the two walked, an object suddenly hit Hachiman in the back of his head, causing him to stumble forward.

"Are you alright?" Nezumi asked with concern.

"I'm fine," Hachiman groaned while rubbing the spot where he was hit. He turned around to see a basketball near his foot. "Who would attempt this, I wonder."

"Hey, Hikigaya!"

He flinched upon hearing the voice, along with the anger that held it. Looking up, he saw an imposing student with red hair in a buzzcut and golden eyes storm towards him.

"Great, it had to be him," Hachiman muttered.

The student walked up to him, glaring at his very being. Everyone in the hall stared at the duo, wondering what would happen next.

"You just had to piss off the president again, didn't you?"

Hachiman sighed. "I think you got me mixed up with whoever wrapped up that poor schmuck last night."

"That schmuck doesn't matter right now," the boy growled. "Every club is cancelled until they nab the guy who did this. And we can't even hang out because of the danger of being attacked!" He grabbed Hachiman by his collar. "The student council is breathing down everyone's necks to make sure nobody hangs around. And your dumbass just had to stir the pot."

Nezumi walked up to the student and grabbed his arm in an attempt to make him release Hachiman.

"How about you let him go," he said. "It's not like beating up will change what's been-"

The imposing student used his free hand and knocked Nezumi away.

"Shut up, Rat," he growled. "My beef is with your dumbass friend here, but I'll get to you real soon."

"Hey," Hachiman said, glaring at him. "Only I get to call him Rat. I've known him longer than you, knuckle dragger."

The boy's expression grew more hostile. "Knuckle dragger, huh? Well, how about I drag my knuckles across your face-"

"This really is not the place or time for such petty squabbles."

Everyone went silent when they heard a familiar voice. Hachiman looked past the boy holding him up to see Rias and Akeno walking towards them.

"Rias? What brings you here?" he asked.

"I was on my way to the rooftop, but I heard a commotion on the way there," the redhead replied. "It's true what they about you Hachiman. No matter where you go, you always manage to invite trouble."

"It's not like I do it on purpose," Hachiman said in a dry tone.

"If you say so," Rias replied, before forming a serious expression on her face as she turned towards the larger boy holding him. "Now Ken, would you be so kind as to let go of Hachiman?"

"Not gonna happen," Ken replied. "The student council wouldn't be holding us by our throats if this prick over here didn't keep pissing the president off. Now we're all suffering because he didn't know when to stop."

"While I understand your frustration, taking it out on Hachiman will not change the fact that all clubs are cancelled until further notice," Rias said in a stern tone. "As a matter of fact, if Sona caught wind of this, she could have you removed from the basketball club. You wouldn't want that, now would you?"

Ken narrowed his eyes. "Is that some kind of threat, Gremory?"

"Don't think of it as a threat," Rias said. "Just think of it as a friendly reminder to adjust your attitude in the future before it gets you into all kinds of trouble."

Ken kept his gaze on Rias for a few seconds, but he eventually relented and tossed Hachiman onto the ground before storming off.

"You're lucky this time, Hikigaya! But next, you're really going to get it!"

Hachiman sighed as he picked himself up. "I seem to be a magnet for all the undesireables around here." He extended an arm towards Nezumi. "You alright?"

"I'm fine," he replied, taking the hand and getting up. "He just bruised my ego. Nothing major."

"Well, glad to see you're both alright," Akeno said with a smile. "Would you mind joining us on the roof? We would like to talk for a bit."

The four were on the rooftop, sitting in a circle.

"Are you sure you're alright, Hachiman?" Rias asked with concern. "You look a bit shaken up."

"Ah, it's nothing," he replied. "I experienced far scarier stuff a while back. Sudo was nothing."

Rias smiled. "That's good to hear." Her expression suddenly turned serious. "But you should know that what I said to Ken applies to you as well."

Hachiman widened his eyes in shock. "How?"

"In case you've forgotten, your attitude towards Sona along with your homeroom teacher as of late are very essence of inappropriate," she said in a tone that matched her expression. "You need to adjust speak and act around them or it will lead to greater problems in the future."

"Is this your idea of a joke?" Hachiman asked indignantly. "One moment, you were sticking up for me, and now you're berating me in the next. Do you contradict yourself when the mood strikes you?"

"It's not a matter of being contradictory, which I am not," Rias replied. "I am saying this so that you will have a reason to present yourself in a more dignified matter towards those around you," Her expression softens and she smiles. "Keep in mind that I am not saying this to bully you. I believe that you are a good person at heart, and I am inspiring you to act open it so others will see you in a more positive light."

Hachiman sighed, taking in every word that came out of the redheaded beauty's mouth.

"I understand what you're saying," he said, standing up. "Maybe I could stand to improve myself as a person." He walked up and headed for the door. "But you should know one thing about me."

"What's that?" Rias asked.

Hachiman turned towards Rias with a dry look.

"I don't give a damn about what people think about me."

With that, he left the rooftop.

"He's certainly a unique kind of person," Akeno said in amusement.

"Unique isn't a word anyone would use to describe him," Nezumi replied.

"I just hope will truly take what I said to him to heart," Rias added. "He needs it more than he thinks."

"Man, what a day," Hachiman sighed as he walked down the stairs. "I get lowkey called out by Sona during the assembly, the knuckle dragger tried to beat me into a pulp and now Rias is telling me to be more socialable. I seem to attract all kinds of annoyances."

"Hachiman," a curt voice called out.

He sighed once more. "Speaking of annoyances, here's one now."

Once Hachiman made it down the stairs, he was met with the stern faces of Sona and Tsubaki.

"We need to talk," the student council president said.

"You must be using the royal 'we', because I'm not in the mood to talk," Hachiman replied in a bitter tone. "In fact, you're the last person in this entire school that I want to look at, let alone talk to."

He attempted to walk past them, but he was stopped by Tsubaki grabbing his shoulder rather tightly, like she was trying to rip it off.

"You will not speak to the president in that tone," she seethed calmly. "You will stand hear, listen to what she has to say and act accordingly."

Hachiman scoffed and knocked Tsubaki's hand off her shoulder. "Why don't you two find someone else to enact your shadow dictator tendencies towards and leave me alone. I need some space after getting the cold shoulder from everyone here."

He quickly walked away, ignoring the two women calling out to him to return.

"I need to find someone who's not going to get into my business all the damn time. But where?"

"Oh, cruel fate, how could you do this to me?"

Hachiman immediately recognized the pitiful lamentations of a certain pervert. In all honesty, he would be last person he would ever associate with for a number of reasons, but at this rate, he had no alternatves.

"Beggars can't be choosers," he muttered, walking towards the source of the wistful moaning. Soon enough, he found Issei leaning near a window, looking as if his dog has died.

"I'll never have the opportunity to peek at melons again," he groaned. "My life is over."

Hachiman sighed again, only it was louder and riddled with irritation. "Look, man, before you go and do something stupid, how about you and me go walk for a bit."

Issei turned around with a sullen expression on his face.

"No offense, Hachiman, but I'd rather be shot than be seen with you, especially after you left me hanging a few days ago," he said.

"Personally, I feel the same way," Hachiman replied. "But my friend is currently stuck with the school's resident bombshells, so I'm flying solo at the moment. However, I could us a co-pilot until he gets back."

At the mention of the bombshells, Issei suddenly brightened up and was in Hachiman's face.

"You lucky bastard! A lot of guys dream of getting close to those two, and you just let the opportunity happen!" There were stars in his eyes and steam blew from his nose in excitement. "Did you get a look at their jugs? Did you cop a feel? Please tell me that you copped a feel!"

Hachiman released another sigh, only it was much longer and more haggard than before.

"This is going to be a long day."

The two boys walked around the school, chatting the day away. As much as Hachiman couldn't stand hearing Issei go on about a peculiar part of the female body, it sure beats being lectured until day's end.

"Hey, Issei. Don't you have any other interests other than huge melons?"

"Hell yeah!" Issei replied with vigor. "I want to get my own harem!"

Hachiman used every nerve in his body to keep himself from facepalming.

"I don't know what I expected," he groaned.

"Come on, man, why do you have to do that?" Issei said in a slightly annoyed tone.

"Do what?" Hachiman asked dryly. "Withhold my boundless discontent for your materialistic and perverted desires which you proudly announce for one reason or another? I have no idea what you're talking about."

"Well, if you think you're hot stuff, what do you want in life?" Issei asked, slightly irritated by Hachiman's attitude.

"I want to go out in the wild and live off the land," Hachiman said matter-of-factly. "Free from all the pointless chatter of people like you. Just me and the beauty of sweet Mother Nature."

Issei ignored the remark he made and put his attention what was said at the end. "What do you plan to do, live in the forest or something?"

"I'm gonna live in a forest when this is all over," Hachiman said. "I've camped in the woods before, so it shouldn't be any different."

"You don't say," Issei said, putting his arms behind his back. "I don't mean to pry or anything, but what do your parents do for a living?"

"Hmm… I guess you could say my parents are hunters," Hachiman said. "They specialize in hunting and capturing large animals."

"What, like bears and tigers?" Issei asked.

Hachiman was silent for a brief moment before answering. "Yeah, let's go with that."

Suddenly, a scream was heard from the other side, getting the boys' attention.

"What the hell was that?" Issei asked, put off by the pitch of the scream.

Hachiman, on the other hand, said nothing as he broke into a fast run towards the source, much to Issei's confusion.

"Hey, where are you going?" he called out.

Katase and Murayama shook with fear as a humanoid, arachnid-like creature slowly skulked towards them. Its gray body with purple spikes on its shoulders were present, making the monster all the more frightening.

"S-Stay back!" Katase shouted, fear hanging from her voice as she held up her shinai towards the monster.

It stared at her for a brief moment, then released a horrible, bloodcurdling noise that rattled their very souls. It was so terrifying, they couldn't bring themselves to scream again.

"W-We're gonna die…" Murayama shuddered as the monster slowly approached them while slowly opening its mouth, prepared to feast upon its potential victims.

At least, it would have, had it not been for the timely intervention of a masked hero, punching it in the face and knocking it back.

"That's as far as you go, freak," Hunter said.

The monster staggered briefly, then snarled at the interloper, finding a new target.

Hunter turned towards the shaken girls. "Get out of here! I'll take care of this!"

Murayama was still shocked, but quickly regained her senses and guided Katase way from the the duo. The monster aimed its wrist towards the retreating girls and attempted to shoot a web, but Hunter quickly grabbed it and changed the direction, sending it towards a wall before punching the monster again.

"First you try to eat those girls, and now you're ripping off Spider-Man?" Hunter asked with distain and anger. "That's it. You've offically made my shit list."

The monster snarled at Hunter and charged at him with the former doing the same. The two engaged in a furious fight, matching kicks and punches. One got a lucky hit on the other, but Hunter had the upper hand as he dodged the monster's strikes and countered when need be.

"After seeing your freaky mug and equally disturbing body, you must be a Nerscylla," Hunter said, kicking the monster back. "But last I checked, your kind has four legs. All I see are two."

The Nerscylla stared at him, then hunched over with its arms held close to its chest as it shook. Then, much to Hunter's brief horror, two arms quickly grew from it's back, thrashing about.

"Well… this is what I get for tempting fate," he muttered.

He pressed a button on his driver and extended both of his arms.

"Equip: Sword and Shield!"

Two lights were seen on his right hand and left forearm, which quickly formed into a sword and shield, respectively. The sword had a medium length with a sharp edge, and the shield almost resembled a chest plate.

"Now… let's begin the hunt."

Hunter attacked the Nerscylla with his weapons. He blocked and parried the strikes from its extended arms, landing many successful hits.

"This is getting too easy," Hunter taunted. "At least give me a challenge, you creeper."

Snarling once more, The Nerscylla shot a large web from its mouth, pinning Hunter to a wall and leaving him defenseless.

"Okay, I really should not tempt fate like that in the future," he muttered miserably.

The Nerscylla slowly approached Hunter, ready to sink its claws into him. Unfortunately for it, the attempt was foiled by a bolt of lightning being shot at its feet, making it jump back in surprise.

"Well, aren't you a naughty little bug, trying to eat our friend."

The monster turned towards the speaker, who was none other than Akeno, who stood with Rias and Nezumi. Upon seeing them, Hunter released a sigh of relief and exasperation.

"I suppose this is your idea of bringing in the cavalry," he said.

Nezumi looked at him while digging into his ear. "It was best I could do on short notice. You know what they say about beggars and choosers."

"Don't remind me"

Rias ignored the banter as her narrowed eyes fixed towards the Nerscylla.

"I don't care who or what you are," she said in a low tone. "I will not permit anyone who would dare bring harm to the students of this school."

If the Nerscylla was frightened by the sheer amount of power it felt coming from Rias, it didn't show it. Still, even with its ferocity, it knew when to fold as it quickly shot a web upward and launched itself away to safety.

"It looks like you scared it away," Akeno tittered. "It's a shame, really. I was hoping to play with it a bit."

"We'll have the opportunity when it presents itself," Rias replied, turning towards Hunter. "I see you're in a bit of a bind."

"That's putting it mildly," Hunter deadpanned. "Now, would one of you be so kind and help me out."

"Say no more," Nezumi said, taking out a knife and walking towards Hunter. Before he could get any closer, Akeno stopped him by putting a hand on his shoulder.

"What's the big idea?" he asked in a mildly annoyed tone.

"Just a minute," the black-haired beauty said.

Rias walked over to Hunter, putting her hands on her hips.

"Are you gonna release me or not?" he asked.

"I should," Rias said. "But I won't."

Hunter widened his eyes beneath his helmet. "Why the hell not?"

"I want to free you, but I don't know why I should free someone as disrespectful you," she said in a stern tone.

Hunter sighed and hanged his head. "Are we seriously doing this now? Just get me down."

Rias did not comply with his request and continued with her lecture.

"Tell me, Hunter. Are you familiar with the saying 'treat others how you want to be treated'?"

"I've heard of it," Hunter replied. "Never really cared for it, honestly."

Rias sighed. "I thought as much. You know, I have a general idea of your character."

Hunter scoffed. "Don't jerk me around, Rias. What could you possibly know about-"

"You alone live with your sister while your parents are working overseas, you ride your bike to school almost every day of the week, nearly running over other students who simply walk there. This is one of many reasons Sona takes exception to you, leading to numerous pointless confrontations and ending with you imposing some kind of punishment on you. Your teacher, Misaki Yuuki, whom you constantly refer to as 'Ms. Sharyu' on the pretense that her resembles a baby monkey. On the same note, you always refer to your friend, Tsugiyoshi Sumino, as Nezumi, due to his hair style resembling rat ears. Everyone in the school gives you a wide berth because your unpleasant appearance and equally distasteful personality, and your favorite canned beverage is MAX Coffee."

Hunter was speechless from Rias listing every single thing about him in an orderly fashion.

"How do you know all of that?" he asked.

Rias smiled. "I observe all the students carefully, and ask people in a tone and expression that makes them feel comfortable. You should consider trying it out."

"Pass," Hunter replied in a deadpan tone. "If I want information, I'll just ask for it, plain and simple. There's no sense in putting up a front."

"It's not putting up a front," Rias replied. "It's merely showing others that you can be friendly once in a while."

"Uh, how is that not putting up a front?" Hunter asked.

Rias sighed in annoyance. "I swear, it's like talking to a wall. That happens to be stuck to another wall." She turned to her companion. "Akeno, we're leaving. Take Nezumi with us."

"With pleasure," Akeno said, lifting Nezumi up and carrying him over her shoulder, much to his surprise.

"Do you work out or something?" he asked as he was carried away.

"That's for me to know and you to find out," Akeno replied with a giggle. She and Rias walked away with Nezumi in tow, leaving Hunter alone and incapacited.

"They really left me alone here," he muttered. "Truly, they are devils of the highest order."

15 minutes later…

"Swing low, sweet chariot… come to take me home…"

Hunter sang miserably to himself as he remained pinned to the wall. He was stuck there for a quarter of an hour, nobody in sight to help him. Every part of him was immobilized due to the web, and he could not do anything about it.

In spite of all of that, there was one thing that remained true in his opinion.

"I should've known this would happen. Nice girls will be the end of mankind as we know it."

"Holy crap! I don't believe what I'm seeing here!"

"This is amazing! To think we would see one in person!"

Hunter slightly turned left towards the source of the voice and saw Issei with two of his equally perverted and moronic friends standing with him.

"One of you guys pinch me!" Matsuda shouted. "There's no way I'm seeing an actual Kamen Rider!"

"I must be dreaming as well," Motohama replied with great zeal. "I'm seeing one as well!"

"A Kamen Rider at our own school! Everyone is going to go crazy when they hear about this!"

Beneath his helmet, Hunter felt his face flush from the adoration he was getting.

"Yeah, it's nice that you find my presence awesome, but would either of you be so kind as to release me?" he asked.

The trio immediately complied without any words and immediately got to work freeing him from the web. Though parts of the substance were stuck on their fingers, they manged to free the masked hero from his confines.

"Thanks a lot," Hunter said, stretching his arms. "I would have been stuck forever had it not been for you lot."

"No problem!" Motohama said excitedly. "It's not every day that you get to free a hero!"

Hunter chuckled. "I'm glad you think that. But I must be off, or else that monster will get away! You keep yourselves safe, alright?"

With that he dashed off, leaving the trio amazed.

"He's so cool," Issei said. "I bet he gets all kinds of girls."

Matsuda and Motohama nodded dumbly in response.

School has ended for the day and everyone prepared to go home since all clubs were cancelled. Hachiman and Nezumi were packing their books in their bags while their classmates prepared to leave.

"A Nerscylla, huh? I heard those are a pain in the ass to deal with," Nezumi said.

"Yeah, I've heard the occassional horror story about them, but seeing one up close really shook my core," Hachiman said. "It's even more disturbing that one would show up in this town."

Nezumi gave Hachiman a knowing look. "You think its responsible for tying up that poor sap the other night?"

"Unless its another monster with the abilities and appearance of a mutated spider, I have no doubt in my mind that it is one," Hachiman mused with a serious expression. "In fact, I would say someone or something created a monster that had the abilities of the Nerscylla and sent it here to lure me out."

"Is that so," Nezumi said, putting a hand to his chin. "You think someone is mass-producing monsters?"

"I can't say for sure," Hachiman replied. "But I have a sneaking suspicion that may be the case. Unless that tag I found alongside the Barroth's Spirit Amulet was just a red herring."

"Red herring or not, it's worth looking into," Nezumi said. "I'll continue digging for info. You should get home and prepare yourself."

Hachiman nodded and put his bag over his shoulder. "Will do."

The two walked out of the classroom, only to run into their teacher.

"Oh good, I caught you two," Ms. Yuuki said with a smile. "Would you mind helping me with something?"

Hachiman and Nezumi looked at each other, then to their teacher.

"We're actually quite busy," Nezumi said. "Can't it wait?"

"It can't," Ms. Yuuki sighed. "There's a lot of boxes that need to be moved and I can't do it all alone. I'm only one woman."

"One woman with the strength of a ten men," Nezumi deadpanned.

Ms. Yuuki pouted. "Don't give me that. You make me sound like I'm a gorilla."

"You said it, I didn't," Nezumi replied.

Ms. Yuuki sighed and turned towards Hachiman. "Would you be able to help me out, Mr. Hikigaya? It will only take a moment."

In all honesty, Hachiman had every reason to refuse her request, although he couldn't explain why. The chances of her believing what he would say bordered on non-existant. He opened his mouth to deliver his refusal, but something clicked in his mind.

I believe that you are a good person at heart, and I am inspiring you to act open it so others will see you in a more positive light

Recalling what Rias said to him made him close his mouth let out a frustrated groan.

"Why am I remembering that now of all times?"

He looked at his teacher, who gave him an expectant look. He had something far more important to do, and he couldn't waste a single second on it. However, what Rias said stuck in his mind.

Maybe it wouldn't hurt him to show that he had a heart beneath his rough, cold exterior.

"If it's that important, I can help you," he said.

Needless to say, both Ms. Yuuki and Nezumi were surpised to hear him say that.

"Y-You'll help me out?" the orange-haired teacher asked.

"I did say that," Hachiman replied with a shrug. "A few boxes won't be any trouble for me. Just guide me too them."

Ms. Yuuki was definitely shocked to see Hachiman this way. While she knew he wasn't selfish in any way possible, he never made any effort to lend a hand unless it benefitted him. But for him to offer his assistance without expecting anything in return warranted some questions.

Questions that would wait for another time.

"Well, I guess I should take you up on that offer," Ms. Yuuki said. "Come with me. I'll show you what needs to be put away."

"After you," Hachiman replied.

The two walked down the hall, leaving Nezumi very confused.

"One day, I'm going to invent something that will check the weather in Hell," he mused.

Rias and her group were scouring the area that was a few meters from the school, searching for the monster that made its appearance. Unfortunately, their laborious search bore no fruit, as they saw neither hair nor hide of the abomination.

"This sucks," Koneko groaned as she kicked a rock. "How hard is it to find an overgrown bug?"

"It is based off of a spider," Kiba replied, looking behind a tree. "They are known to hide in places while they wait for their prey."

"Unlucky for it, we're anything but prey," Akeno tittered. "Around here, we're the hunters."

Rias paid no mind to her comrades' banter, as she was deep in thought.

"What purpose would that monster have in showing up on campus? Its appearance and demeanor match those of the previous monsters, but this one was more sinister." She sighed and turned to the others. "We'll comb over this area some more, then we'll move on."

"The sooner, the better," Kiba said. "I don't like the idea of some monster terrorizing the students, especially since we know next to nothing about it."

"We know some things about it," Akeno cut in. "Nezumi was kind enough to tell us about that ugly creature. One of it's weaknessess is thunder, which I am quite proficient in."

"Yeah, yeah, you're a walking lightning rod," Koneko deadpanned. "No need to brag about it."

Akeno smiled. "It's not bragging if its true."

A loud snarling cut the chatter short, putting the group on high alert.

"Looks like it decided to show up," Rias said with a serious expression.

Indeed, the Nerscylla showed up, looking more hostile than ever. But unlike before, it was not alone. Behind it were several more of its kind, at least 15. Rias and her party were outnumbered.

"This was not mentioned in the slightest," Akeno said with a grim expression.

"How are there so many of them?" Kiba asked. "And were they waiting for us?"

"Either the bug has friends or he's been breeding like a champ," Koneko mused while cracking her knuckles. "Doesn't matter. We'll squash them all."

"Don't underestimate them just yet," Rias said sternly. "We need to be prepared for anything."

Hachiman sighed as he put down the last box in the faculty room.

"There. All done."

Ms. Yuuki smiled at him. "I have to say, we got done a lot faster. It just goes to show that having an extra set of hands will get you far."

Hachiman stretched his arms out. "I guess."

"I'm honestly amazed you were able to carry that much," Ms. Yuuki said. "Some of those boxes were really heavy. Do you work out in your spare time?"

"I just have experience with heavy lifting," Hachiman replied in a nonchalant tone.

Ms. Yuuki giggled. "I would imagine. You look like you lift very often."

Hachiman snorted. "Is that a fact now?"

Both of them were silent for a moment until Ms. Yuuki spoke up.

"Mr. Hikigaya… Hachiman, I want to thank you for taking the time out of your schedule to help me out. I know we haven't had much of a good relationship, but… I'm happy nonetheless."

Hachiman stared at her. Never in his life had he heard such sincere appreciation.

"Think nothing of it," he replied.

He heard his phone ringing from his pocket, prompting him to take out. He saw a number on the display he did not recognize.

"Who's calling you?" Ms. Yuuki asked.

"Damned if I know," Hachiman replied, opening his phone and answering it. "Hello?"

"Hachiman, is that you?! We need your help!"

Despite the frantic tone, Hachiman immediately noticed who was speaking.

"Rias? How did you get my phone-"

"That's not important!" she shouted. "That monster you face earlier… there's more of them converging in the forest near the school!"

Hachiman's eyes widened in shock. "More? How is that possible?"

"I have no idea!" Rias shouted from other line. "Each one we defeat, another one takes its place instantly! They're multiplying somehow!"

If Hachiman's eyes weren't wide enough, they certainly were now. However, his eyes returned to normal.

"Hold them off until I get there," he said, hanging up and looking towards his teacher. "I need to go. Someone out there needs my help."

"Someone else needs your help?" Ms. Yuuki said. "I'm amazed you're going out there to do it."

"Well, I can't leave them hanging," Hachiman said matter-of-factly. "They are in a bad spot right now. The sooner I get there, the better."

Hachiman dashed out of the faculty room before his teacher say anything. In spite of that, she found his attitude refreshing for some reason.

"He should show that face more often," she said.

Hachiman rushed out of the school and headed towards the bike rack. When he reached his bike, he saw a pouch hanging off of it with a tag that read "from Nezumi." Grinning he took the pouch and put it in his pocket.

"Alright, let's go," he said, taking his bike out and getting on. He started to move it towards the gate, but he was stopped by Sona and Tsubaki, who looked more agitated than normal.

"This is as far as you go, Hikigaya," Sona seethed.

"Tell me something I don't know," Hachiman scoffed. "Now would you kindly move? I got somewhere to be and you're in the way in both senses."

"I will not," the student council president replied, anger hanging from her voice. "Your attitude is beyond unacceptable and you will be punished for it-"

Hachiman groaned, cutting her tirade off. "Screw it. I should have done this when I had the time."

He pedalled swiftly and dashed past the two women, surprising them.

"Hey!" Sona shouted as she chased after him.

Hachiman threw up a peace sign as he pedalled faster, increasing the gap between them.

"Hold on, Rias. I'm coming."

Rias fired a ball of energy towards the horde of Nerscylla, striking and obliterating them. A puddle of dark sludge was where horde stood, and it quickly formed into a new Nerscylla.

"They just keep coming, no matter how many times we strike them down," she growled.

Kiba sliced down many of the monsters, but more return in their place.

"What are they made out of?" he asked himself.

Koneko held her ground against the monsters, knocking many of them back, but none of them showed any sign of stopping.

"I really hate bugs," she growled.

Akeno appeared to have the least amount of trouble with the monsters, as they were severely weakened everytime she shot lightning at them. However, she appeared to be reaching her limits as well.

"As fun as this has been, I can't keep this up," she panted. "There's just so many of them."

All of them were near their limit. Even with all of their powers, it would take a miracle for them to defeat the horde.

"I hope I didn't keep you waiting."

Everyone of them turned around to see Hachiman on his bike, the Hunter Driver fixed on his belt buckle. His eyes were narrowed towards the horde of Nerscylla that they were fighting off.

"Hachiman," Rias said in relief. "You came."

"Of course I did," Hachiman replied. "You called and I arrived." He got up from his bike and joined up with the group. "That's a lot of bugs."

"Like you wouldn't believe," Koneko deadpanned. "We squash a few of them, and they leave behind some gross ooze that makes them grow back."

"Interesting," Hachiman said. "We should use this to our advantage."

He took out the pouch from his pocket and reached into it, taking out an amulet that had the picture of a monster he fought long ago.

"Keep me covered while I transform," he said. "They're sure to come after me."

"Right!" they all said.

The group immediately held back the horde while Hachiman put the amulet in the driver.

"Spirit Locked!"

Hachiman performed the pose as usual, but this time, white marks appeared on his body, and when he opened his eyes, they were bright red.

"Henshin!"

Pressing the claws on the driver, the tattoos grew around his body, settled, and formed a new kind of armor: whitish-blue with brown straps and a helmet with red eyes.

"Spirit Form: Tobi-Kadachi!"

Hunter looked at his new form with intrigue.

"I like this," he said. "Now, let's take it for a test run."

He ran towards the horde, and felt that he was going faster than normal.

"The monster is really fast. I expected no less."

As he ran, he felt electricity gather in his hands. Grinning, he rushed towards one of the Nerscylla and punched its face with an electric-charge fist. Upon making contact, the beast was stunned.

"These bugs are definitely weak against lightning," he mused. "This is awesome."

Hunter noticed more of them approaching Kiba and Koneko. Immediately, he rushed over to their side and performed a sliding kick, knocking them off their feet while electrocuting them.

"This is as far as you go!" he announced. "Now… let's begin the hunt!"

KS: Due to the unexpected length of this chapter, I had to end it here, but rest assured, the fight will continue in the next chapter. Also, I should mention that characters from Juuni Taisen: Zodiac Wars and Classroom of the Elite will make appearances in this fic, so look forward to that. One more thing: I have written and posted a real-life book on Kobo called "Black Flare", and would greatly appeciate it if you could find the time to check it out, I would greatly appreciate it. Now, on to the preview.

Next time on Kamen Rider Hunter...

Veiled Threats

Rias: Whoever this person is, they really hate you.

Hachiman: Is that a fact now?

A Disturbing Lead

Akeno: This is how the monsters are created?

Kiba: How horrible...

Koneko: Gross is what I would call it.

Another Kamen Rider

Hunter: Who the hell are you?

?: I'm the man who's going to defeat you.

Chapter 4: No Stone Unturned