Sorry this chapter took so long. I know you've heard the exams/summative/blahblah (excuse). What's important is that it's finally out! (may have to read a few old chapters to remember stuff since it's been so long).
Tatsumi and Mine made it back to the imperial city in the waning hours of the night. They never said a word to another, nor did they want to ruin the mood between them as the horses had trotted through the wilderness, carving their path across the darkness. Tatsumi was happy to have made up with his friend. When he had fought, it was for the protection of others. The emperor was slowly realising the truth about himself; One who fought only for others would require someone to fight for himself.
His comfort came from the care of others, yet Tatsumi knew his moment with Mine would end. And what then? I shall be alone, away from everyone with noone but myself. And after I have slept, and after I have ate, and after I have worked, what then will be left for me?
When had he become so obsessed with companionship? Wondered the boy. Why now did he feel the need for the warmth of others, at a time when his coat should be sufficient?
The horses pulled past the walls of the castle, the size of the rear gate drawing Mine and Tatsumi together as they entered the courtyard. They dismounted just outside the stables.
"Thank you Tatsumi." Said Mine. "For everything you've done. It means a lot to me."
There. That was what he lived for. Everytime Tatsumi was praised, every time we was thanked, he felt as if he could soar a million miles. The emperor watched the girl skip away, to his slight disappointment. This glimpse of happiness only made him want more.
He could hear faint footsteps landing behind him. "Ah- Akame." He said, noting the sheer height of the roof she had leapt off of. "Why're you awake so late?"
"I was waiting for you to return safely." She said, walking around him and looking at every spot on his body. "I'm not injured!" He shouted exasperatedly. She stopped, returing to her place in front of him with her arms at her side. Although I'm not especially mad that she cares about me so… And I have been wanting to spend time with her… and, I think, just maybe, maybe I want to spend more time with her.
Tatsumi's feelings for Akame had started out as fear, changed over time into admiration, and eventually comradery. But now, he was beginning to look at her more, and notice just how loving, warm, and kind she could be. I know it's selfish. I know that being with her would only weigh her down. But I don't want to be alone.
"Hey Akame." He asked tentatively. "Tomorrow… Would you like to go somewhere with me?"
She stopped polishing her katana and fixed her stare on him. "G-go where?"
"Into the city with me. I feel like it's been a long time since I went there, and you need a break with everything that's been happening."
"I… don't really like the city." She said. That wasn't the response I was hoping for! Thought Tatsumi. "It's full of people who might remember me from the wanted posters, and there are many directions from which we may be attacked." Tatsumi was beginning to regret choosing the city.
"But if it's with you, I don't mind." She said, to his relief. Tatsumi felt the energy rise within him again. "Okay Akame! I'll meet you at the gates at noon!"
"Yes." She said, nodding her head.
"It's a date then." Said a new voice. Tatsumi sighted the familiar blonde.
"Don't you start again Leone." Said a bemused Akame. Tatsumi could tell the two had made up from their fight the other day.
"But it's true though, isn't it?" Pressed Leone. "You're asking her out!"
"Akame, she's right." Said Tatsumi slowly. "You will come, won't you?" The assassin felt her cheeks redden, she put her hand to her mouth. "Y-yes of course!"
Thank god thought Tatsumi. Truth is, I probably needed Leone to tell Akame. Else I would have been too timid to say it myself. Now that it was in the open, and she had accepted him, there was no need to be afraid.
"Well that settle's it." Said Leone. "C'mon Akame, there's a few things I have teach you." The two of them left, walking through the gardens under the moonlight. Tatsumi went the other way. He and Akame frequently looked behind them, watching each other, but they never looked at the same time, and went their separate ways…
Tatsumi watch: Lubbock's monologue
So Tatsumi finally came back eh? Too bad, I was kind of hoping he would stay out. Then I could go read some sleazy fanfiction instead of sitting in a dark room watching the windows and doors.
I have to admire Tatsumi, in a way. That guy, he gets everyone's attention. Akame, Leone, Chelsea, Mine, Bulat, hell even Esdeath. And he does all of this without even trying. Why does God give gifts to those who don't use them? It's so unfair!
But what can you do? If there's one thing Tatsumi has taught me, is that you can't drop the world over one person. I love Najenda, I truly do. My passion for her is an intense fire, my desire for her is a hungry lion. But after Tatsumi came around, I started noticing things about the other assassins, things I never would have seen if I kept my eyes on Najenda. I think, for the first time, I began to see them as people.
I know what I'll do! I'll make Najenda jealous! She can't possibly resist a stud like me if I actually become a stud! As long as I don't actually do anything I'll be fine (still saving my first time for her).
I know that this might seriously backfire. But really, what could possibly go wrong?
End of monologue, Lubbock exits
"You're back." Said the giant spider.
Akame had returned to the throne room the following morning, facing the ancient entity from across the room, Katana with her in case Haleolith tried to eliminate her.
"Yes. And I have thought about what you have said."
The spider came out of the corner where it hid from the common dignitaries Tatsumi had to speak to. It's eyes locked on to her, as if judging the threat she posed to him. When it found only defensive precautions, it settled down on the floor.
"And?"
"I'll help you. If it means protecting Tatsumi from our enemies, I'll help you."
The spider raised it's head. "Splendid! I knew a smart young lady like you would see the light of reason. Now, do I have your word you will not speak about this matter of revival?"
"I will not tell the emperor, or anyone else for that matter." Replied Akame. I will not tell him again of course. Which meant she was telling the truth.
"Ok. Now we can set our plan in motion." And the spider brought forth several drawings and maps. "Our enemies will be working in secret. They will stay hidden until they are able to launch a full scale attack."
"Be more specific on who our 'enemies' are and what their goals are."
"Unfortunately we can only assume that they are after the secret of revival. Beyond that, their goals and motives are unknown, beyond their intentions to do us harm."
"The attack several days ago proved one thing." Continued the spider. "They are capable of penetrating this castle's defenses. To do this, they have to have someone on the inside. Someone spying for them."
"I'll look into it. But enough about our opponents. How do we help Tatsumi get back his friends?"
The Arachnid looked at her, it's eyes projecting a melancholy stare onto Akame. "Peace. We must not let him know what we are up to. For now, convince Miss Najenda to explore and map out the underground once more. For our own good, we will require knowledge on the state of affairs in the catacombs."
"I see." Said Akame, turning her back on Haleolith and walking away.
"Oh, Young lady." Said the spider. She turned around. "What?"
"Take care not to place yourself in any unnecessary risks. You are more important than you know."
After Akame left the throne room, she went back to her room and got changed. She felt immensely happy as she remembered her date with Tatsumi. The assassin wondered if she should put some ribbons or bows on her hair, settling on a simple bow and a casual dress.
She combed her hair with care, making sure it was absolutely straight and perfect. I'm going on a date with him… I should be presentable.
She wondered how he felt about her. Was Tatsumi harboring feelings for her? Or was this the doing of his inner sadness and loneliness. Akame didn't know how she felt about either, or whether she was really right in judging him. The killer looked in the mirror, red eyes slightly hidden by hair staring back at her. Akame had looked at herself enough to know that she was never afraid of herself, except maybe when she saw her eyes reflected in those of her opponents. And that was when she buried her feelings.
I'm not nervous She told herself. I'm just… cautious. She looked at the clock. She wasn't going to be taking any shortcuts and the castle roof, so she knew she needed more time today.
I will be watching him. And I hope he will be watching me.
Imperial palace, main gate
Tatsumi was waiting for Akame at the main castle gate, wearing a white t shirt and jeans. His hair ruffled gently in the breeze, as he adjusted his collar for the seventeenth time. Not because he was a neat freak, but because he didn't want anyone to see the emperor standing around doing nothing.
"Tatsumi." A voice called out to him. He turned to see Akame.
There she was in a casual blue dress, carrying a beige leather purse (and her Kattana) and wearing a cute bow and with her hair swaying gently in the breeze. And of course, she looked beautiful.
"Akame." He replied, walking over to her where she stood underneath a tree. "That dress really suits you! I like it!"
"Thanks." Said Akame, turning her head away and looking at the ground as He drew near, "Well, shall we go then?" He asked.
"Of course," Said Akame, starting to walk but then stopping, noticing that Tatsumi was outstretching his hand. She took it rather eagerly.
It's so warm She thought.
Her hand is so soft He thought.
They began walking down the city streets. Making conversation became easier as Tatsumi began pointing out all of the shops and public places. Akame found herself giggling, and the two became less stiff and began walking closer. After that they had lunch, and soon found themselves walking through busy avenues full of people.
"Hey Tatsumi." Said Akame, pulling him over to the side of the street. "How come people aren't noticing us? As the emperor, your face is easily recognizable."
Tatsumi had been prepared for this question. "Well, I suppose it's because noone really looks at us."
"What do you mean?" Asked the confused girl.
"Well, people usually keep to themselves in this town. When the old Empire ruled, it was dangerous to do anything other than mind your own business. Anyone could be a spy, or It's been several weeks since the new government kicked in, but people are still afraid to talk to each other."
"It's hard to change a lifetime of habits." Akame said quietly.
"Your thinking about Kurome, aren't you?"
"She stepped away so she could turn and face him. "Tatsumi, I'm worried about her. She's hiding it, but I can sense her killing intent growing stronger everyday. And it's not towards any one person…"
Tatsumi said nothing, so she continued. "I fear if she goes too long without killing someone, Kurome will lose what little sanity she has left."
"Akame, we can't let that happen." Said Tatsumi. "I'll do whatever it takes to help you."
"Thanks Tatsumi." Said Akame, wiping away a single tear. "And sorry I brought it up on our date, I just… Hey! Isn't that Lubbock's old book shop?"
Sure enough, there was the faithful old store, only today it looked brighter and busier than ever before. People Came and went, laughing and talking to each other. The Sun Guards decided to go in.
Tatsumi walked around the shop, looking at the rows of shelves aimlessly while Akame explored the light novels and manga section.
"Can I help you?" Said a young woman walking up to Tatsumi.
"I'm just looking around. The previous owner of this shop, Lubbock, was my friend. Er- By the way, did he tell you about the secret passageway that would appear if you pulled a certain book?"
"Master Lubbock told us about the passage, but we never managed to find it."
"It's got to be a book that noone would take out. Something really really boring." Said Tatsumi. The woman was thoughtful for a second, then reached for an old gray book, titled : A CONTEMPORARY STUDY OF ASHTRAYS. Sure enough, the bookshelf swung backwards, revealing a passageway. But while the woman ran excitedly down the tunnel, Tatsumi's attention was being drawn in other directions.
"What the hell is this?" Yelled Akame, as Tatsumi turned the corner. In her hands were several mangas. Tatsumi looked at their covers as Akame gave the clerk a hard look. Within seconds the store was deserted.
"Err.. uh." Said Tatsumi, unable to formulate words. In each of the paperbacks was the emperor, -was him- doing lewd acts. Titles like The secret life of Tatsumi and In the bedroom of the emperor: Tatsumi's dark secret? He leafed through the pages, eyes widening as he found page after page of him engaged in lustful acts.
"Oh those? They're all the rage among young girls these days." Said the shopkeeper.
"They are defamation of the emperor's good name!" Said Akame.
"Um, I'll wait outside." Said Tatsumi, sensing that things were about to get ugly. Akame drew her Katanna. "EEK!" Screamed the clerk. "Please don't kill me! I'll do anything."
"I'm taking this." Said Akame, restraining herself. She held the mangas in her hands, about to rip them to pieces. Although, She thought, The artist did a good job of drawing Tatsumi's face. She studied the books for a second. The girl he's courting… she looks kind of like me. She put the books in her purse, thankful that Leone had given it to her.
I must conduct further research on this. She told herself.
Imperial Capital, deep underground.
Volvanox crawled through tunnels on her hands and knees. There was pain in her feet, but she continued on, ignoring it. She passed several connecting passages leading to nothing but dead ends, decaying bricks and mortar of thousand year old secret passages emitting a damp and musty smell.
Not much further Said the voice in her head. Turn right here. Her friend had memorised the passage, as it would always do for her, but as with all things it memorized, it gave Volvanox a painful sensation in her head when unburied, as if they shared the same mind.
Volvanox. Said the whispering voice. You don't have to serve under the hooded one. You could use this power for yourself. Turn it against them and have everything for yourself.
"How will I use a power that I have no idea how to control?"
Power is not learned. It is taken. Or stolen. Or borrowed, and never returned.
She dropped down a sheet metal hatch and landed on the floor, dust falling from around her as she looked at her new surroundings.
"Maybe… Give me some time to think about it. Until then, I'll play the servant's role."
She reached a sort of stone altar, an ancient workbench, and reached for her bag. What she pulled out was a most peculiar device as the voice in her head prepared a response.
Coward. It chided, turning harsher, more concerned. You only say that so that you may give an excuse to never change. She ignored it, setting the device down and observing it. It had a peculiar wedge shaped blade a - foots length at the base and culminating in a sharp point- , with a handle splitting off at the end.
The design inspired Volvanox as the room begun to grow warmer. It's shape, it's design, it's lack of a guard and raw chopping power, this was a failed weapon created with the idea of ruthless aggression, sacrificing any defense for pure attacking ability.
She backed away from the hissing sounds made from the rejected shingu to listen for approaching footsteps. "You're wrong. I'm cautious, but even I am willing to work for what I desire."
The sound of hard, scaly feet could be heard coming through the tunnels. Volvanox sealed and covered the way she came, so that they wouldn't break the surface.
There was no turning back.
Imperial capital, city
Tatsumi waited expectantly for his date. He hoped she wouldn't be too long, although he wasn't too excited to do anything about it.
To his relief, she popped out of the store, taking her position at his side. "Akame, shall we continue?"
"Affirmative." She said. "Where next?"
"I was thinking we would go for some ice cream." Akame took his hand, and they walked over to the shop.
They ordered two vanilla ice creams, coming in a sweet waver cone. It was the best thing Tatsumi had ever tasted, and Even Akame was surprised by how good it was.
"Tatsumi, you have ice cream on your cheek." She said, wiping it off with her finger."
"Thank you." Said Tatsumi, as the two walked home. The sun was setting, casting an orange glow
"The city is such a nice place, I can't believe I only saw the bad parts of the city." Said the assassin. "I didn't know it could be so nice!"
"Of course!" Said Tatsumi. "Everything has a good side!" To which she gave him a wierd look. "Would you say the same about Esdeath?"
"I guess… yeah, she had a good side to her. She was extremely sadist, cruel, and selfish, but also hardworking, honest, and even caring at times... When it suited her."
"Tatsumi?"
"Yeah Akame?"
"Forget about her. You have me." And she wrapped her arm around him. Tatsumi was embraced by her scent, her hair brushing lightly against his side. With each step Tatsumi could feel a growing feeling of happiness. Soon it was all he could do to not throw himself onto the girl. Maybe it was the novelty of seeing the girly side of Akame, or that the contrast of her and Esdeath was so great that it shocked him to his very core.
Because for all intents and purposes, several weeks ago he could not have imagined himself with anyone other than Esdeath. Whether it was his fear of leaving her or a deeply buried sadism with him, Tatsumi had no idea.
But I'll forget about her for you, Akame-Chan.
Imperial palace, main gate
"Thank you Tatsumi. I enjoyed our day together."
The two of them stood under the moonlight, in the imperial gardens. The high walls of the imperial palace contained Akame's vision, but she cared not for any sight but Tatsumi's green eyes.
"I enjoyed it too." Said Tatsumi. Giving her one of his warm smiles. "Let's do it again sometime."
She planted a kiss on his cheek, giving her the satisfaction of seeing him blush, though she felt her cheeks warm as well. "Goodnight Tatsumi." Really girl... He could hear Leone's chiding voice in her head. You're too timid to do anything unless meat is involved.
"Goodnight Akame."
The emperor left, but Akame remained, standing silent and still. When she was sure that Tatsumi was gone, she leapt into the bushes and wrenched out a screaming young girl.
"Why were you spying on me?" She asked threateningly. The girl had to be a bit younger than her at 16, perhaps one of the servants in the palace.
"Please! Don't hurt me!" She cried, hanging onto her hair as Akame pressed her against a tree. I'm not really that scary, am I?
"Who do you work for?" Said Akame. This girl was clearly working for someone, and the quickest way to kill the weed was to get to the root itself.
"It was Agrammok the oil merchant!" The girl cried. "He said he'd kill my sister if I didn't do as he said."
Akame pushed her away and the girl ran off. As soon as the assassin was sure that she too was gone, she left in the opposite direction, deciding not to follow or interrogate further. Agrammok would meet his retribution, but for now it could wait.
She had some reading to do.
And there you have it! An anime/fanfic date that DIDN'T end in disaster/get broken up by a fight sequence. Keep in touch for chapter 12
