Chapter 11: Kill the Qualifications

Honest didn't know the word to describe the atmosphere while he stood a few feet away from Esdeath. For months now, his invincible general had been bedridden due to an unknown illness she contracted. Even though she was still alive, Honest was still greatly worried due to her refusal to accept any assistance from the doctors.

"Do you think I'm responsible for what happened?" asked Honest.

"With my Jaegers out of the way, you could let your son's unit do whatever they pleased in the Capital," she answered with her back facing him. "Perhaps, you wanted a group who would do what you said without question? Or maybe…you were afraid of what would happen if my team learned of your true nature?"

"…I'm not here to discuss this. Why are you refusing treatment?"

"I don't require your medicines to help me survive. I've lived this long on my own, and that's how I prefer to have it."

Honest sighed before he said, "This isn't about strength. Do you understand the situation you're in?"

"Of course I do…" Esdeath slightly turned her head, allowing Honest to see her devious smile. "Imagine if I overcome this severe debilitation through sheer willpower."

Honest closed his eyes and turned to walk out the room. He knew further argument wouldn't do any good. Whenever Esdeath had that look, there was no convincing her. There was one more thing that was bothering him, however.

"Do you hold a grudge because of what happened to your subordinates?" It was a question that had been on his mind for a while. He doubted Esdeath really cared, but it sent shivers down his spine at the thought of her turning against him.

"I'm on the side that will best fulfill my desire for battle. The Empire still gives me the best chance. However, you've done a bad job of handling Nocturne. You've let them gain momentum and confidence. It's only a matter of time before they come for you. My regret is that I might not be able to see how it turns out."

With those final words, Honest left Esdeath alone on her balcony. She gripped her chest as the pain continued.

To think something like this is trying to get the better of me… After the pain subsided, she thought about a certain brown-haired boy. I wonder where you are right now…Tatsumi.

VVV

Back at Nocturne's headquarters, everyone in attendance was stunned to hear Wave's sudden demand to invade the Capital. As stunning as the proclamation was, it wasn't surprising Wave wanted to take the Capital because he made it his biggest goal since day one.

"You know we can't do that," replied Chelsea, who didn't bother to give the matter much thought. "If we get ahead of ourselves—"

"I know that!" he yelled while looking down. "Haven't you seen what we've been able to do in half a year? People are afraid of us."

"Don't confuse fear with attentiveness," added Akame. "In the end, we're still up against an army. Fear won't help us win against the Capital's forces."

"But this is the perfect chance to strike. We still don't know what happened to Lady Esdeath, and General Budo is somewhere in the South. What better chance is there to attack then when both of their generals are gone?"

"I want to have your back on this, but…" said Tatsumi, looking indifferent. He knew Wave was undoubtedly suffering from what happened to his village, and he had no qualms about helping him carry out his revenge. Still, attacking the Capital right now seemed like too risky a gamble.

"I understand your feelings, Wave," added Seryu. "I, too, was obsessed with infiltrating the Capital after learning about the possibility of their treachery. As a result of my rash actions, one of us died…"

"I guess what we're trying to say is—" continued Chelsea.

"Try to put too much on your shoulders, and you'll throw out your back," added Kurome. "Don't forget you still haven't outgrown my services yet—don't cause me trouble."

He looked happier because he's gotten used to the way Kurome expressed concern by joking around. "Alright, just forget I mentioned it."

The tension in the air seemed to lighten up after that. While he still wanted to take the Capital, he didn't want to do it at the expense of his teammates. For now, he decided to let it go.

"With that settled, I have a request of my own," said Tatsumi, pulling out a piece of paper from his pocket. Upon closer examination, it looked to be some kind of advertisement for a tournament. "I've been holding on to this for a month now."

"Some kind of competition?" asked Wave, examining the poster. "It's being held in a town far to the West in the desert region."

"I was thinking I could take part in it because the Empire doesn't know I'm apart of Nocturne. As long as I don't use Incursio, I'll be fine."

"Why the sudden interest in this?" asked Leone.

"Take a look at the prize money," replied Tatsumi, holding up a poster in front of Leone.

She practically had dollar signs in her eyes when she saw the value. "Good luck, Tatsumi! Make sure you bring me a souvenir!"

"Hold on a minute!" interrupted Mine. "We're not seriously going to risk this are we?"

"I'm on board," added Wave. "I think I'll join the tournament, actually."

"If people see your face—" began Tatsumi.

"I'll just make a disguise. Plus, typically in competitions like this, shady types flock to it in droves." Wave developed a determined grin. "It'll be like killing two birds with one stone."

"Make that three birds," added Chelsea. "The town you're talking about actually has an infamous church. It's members sacrifice their children to appease their god or whatever. Even though they don't harm anyone outside of their members, it doesn't change the fact they're killing children. They've apparently been a lot more active lately with their protest in broad daylight."

"Delusional heretics," said Kurome, taking a bite out of her cookie. "Another day at work, I guess."

"It seems this will be a two-part operation," continued Run, sipping his tea. "Wave and Tatsumi will take part in the tournament, and one of us shall deal with the church."

"That'll be me," volunteered Akame. "I'll be able to deal with them quickly and quietly."

"Count me in," added Kurome. "I'll watch your back in case something goes wrong." She said this in a light tone, but her eyes signaled she wouldn't be denied.

"Very well. If that's all, then—"

"I want to participate as well!" yelled Seryu, getting out of her chair. Her rosy cheeks were puffed out as if she'd been holding that outburst in.

"That's fine, but…why?" asked Tatsumi.

"I think greater numbers will improve our chance of victory. Also, I would like to assist in the purging of any fiends taking part."

"Well, I guess that's that," said Chelsea. "Tatsumi, Wave, and Seryu will take part in the tournament. Akame and Kurome will wipe out those fanatics. Lastly, the rest of us will remain here on standby. Is everyone fine with that?" Nobody spoke up which meant everyone was in agreement.

"Since all of us are competing, that means we might fight each other," concluded Tatsumi. "May the best…Teigu user win."

"Well said," added Wave.

"No matter who the opposition may be," began Seryu with a sadistic smile, "I shall crush them with my justice!" She paused when everyone in the room stared at her. "I mean…I look forward to this competition of strength."

I hope I don't have to fight her…thought Tatsumi and Wave simultaneously.

"Just keep in mind that Incursio and Grand Chariot will have to stay with Akame and Kurome," reminded Chelsea. "Koro won't be able to come at all."

The dog responded to the news with a disappointed growl.

"You should be glad I'm not entering," said Kurome while still snacking. "There wouldn't be a competition."

"Oh, I'm sure," replied Wave, which looked like it rubbed her the wrong way.

"By the way, the one that gets the farthest gets to take me on a date." Several people spit out whatever beverage they happened to be drinking while Kurome carried on as if she said nothing out of the ordinary.

"Say what…?" asked Wave, thinking he misheard.

"The one who makes it the farthest gets a date."

"What if it's me that should be victorious?" asked Seryu with a confused expression.

Kurome merely shrugged as both Akame and Mine face-palmed. Mine said, "I thought Chelsea was bad. That sister of yours, Akame…"

"She's a special one," replied Akame, who couldn't help but let a smile appear.

"I guess we have a little more incentive, Wave?" asked Tatsumi, rubbing the back of his head. Instead of an answer, he looked to see Wave talking to himself.

"If I just use half my strength at the beginning, I should be able to outlast anything that comes in the final round…"

He's already planned this out!

VVV

The plan was for Chelsea to fly the five to the city in the morning. Counting today, the tournament would last two days in total. It was decided Akame and Kurome would wait to assassinate the church members after the tournament in order to avoid a huge uproar. After a few hours of flying on Elle, the town was within sight. The hot air danced across their faces while Chelsea dropped them off and reminded them to be at the appropriate spot on time. Grains of sand spread through the sky when Elle took off, leaving the five to their task.

"Damn it's hot," stated Tatsumi. They were all wearing high-quality robes that were meant to keep their bodies insulated along with scarves to better protect their identities. "Your artificial limbs won't be affected by this heat, right, Seryu?"

"Fear not," she said while giggling. "It's a special metal that is resistant to extreme temperatures. I'll be fine."

"Let's hurry and get to the town," added Kurome, yawning. "I want to go back to bed as soon as possible."

"Chelsea picked out where we should stay, so Kurome and I will go on while you three register," informed Akame.

"Got it," replied Wave. "Meet us at the Coliseum later on."

Once they finally reached the town, they split up as planned. Despite it still being early, the streets were fairly packed with civilians. Not wanting to waste any time, the three ventured to the center of town where the stadium was located. It wasn't as massive as the one in the Capital, but it was still an impressive building. Once they entered, a huge lobby with officials behind a counter could be seen.

"Excuse me, mam," said Seryu, greeting a woman official dressed in business attire. "The three of us would like to participate in this tournament."

Almost like she was a robot, the woman quickly handed them three pieces of paper and said, "Sign your name here, and proceed through the hallway to the right."

"You don't want any identification?" asked Tatsumi. Just in case that problem arose, they had fake ID's made beforehand.

"No identification is required."

I can only imagine how many shady assholes are gonna be in this thing, thought Wave before gesturing to Seryu. "Sign us up while we go ahead."

"Roger." Seryu was about to complete her task until a problem appeared. I cannot write our real names… She turned to ask them what aliases they'd like, but they were already gone. What would be a good name for them…

While Seryu was busy deciding what names to write down, Tatsumi and Wave were taking a look at the competition. It only took seconds for them to spot plenty of suspicious and sleazy characters. The others either looked average or were concealing their appearance.

"Whoa!" exclaimed Tatsumi. "Take a look at that!"

Tatsumi pointed to a wall that was entirely decorated with multiple types of weapons and armors. As a blacksmith, Tatsumi couldn't help but be excited at the scene of nicely made items. It didn't take him long to lock onto a silver-colored two-handed sword.

"I'm definitely taking this one," he said with a cheeky grin, hefting the blade onto his shoulders.

"They even have ornamental swords," informed Wave, taking a blue sword covered in various symbols.

"I didn't know you could use those."

"I used to practice with them all the time when I was younger. Not many people use them nowadays, so I'm shocked they'd have one here."

"I didn't think anyone here would use that type of weapon," said an unfamiliar voice.

Wave and Tatsumi turned to see the smiling face of a black-haired dark-skinned boy that looked to be around their age. He was wearing a black traditional martial art garb.

Where did he come from? thought Wave.

"Oh, I'm sorry I surprised you! I was just saying how I never see people use ornamental swords around these parts."

"You've competed here before?" asked Tatsumi.

"This year would be my fifth!" he exclaimed with a friendly smile. "Is it your first time here?"

They were both hesitant to give any information about themselves, but they didn't see any harm in answering the question. Naturally, they had a cover story ready.

"We've competed all over the Empire, but this is the first time we've ever visited this town," answered Wave. "How stiff is the competition, usually?"

"Most of them are mere travelers who participate in competitions like this for a quick buck." The boy's eyes narrowed. "I can tell you two are strong, so it shouldn't be a problem."

Tatsumi took a good look at the guy and came up with a conclusion. He's stronger than he's letting on… He exchanged glances with Wave for a second that signaled it was best for this conversation to end.

"Thanks for the advice," said Wave. "We'll be on our way now."

"Do your best to win the consolation prize!"

"Huh?" paused Tatsumi, raising an eyebrow. "What do you mean consolation?"

"In this tournament, the runner-up is rewarded with a consolation prize."

"Why would there be something like that?"

"Well…no one actually expects to win." His eyes became more serious, which was strange because he was still smiling. "Not with the Titans of the Desert participating."

"…Titans of the Desert?" repeated Wave. Both him and Tatsumi were sure they'd never heard of a group like that.

"This town is usually peaceful, but every now and then a Danger Beast happens to rampage. In order to combat the attacks, the town elected four guardians. It also happens that three of the Titans takes place in the tournament annually. Most hope two of them will take out each other, and then they'll just take the loss in the finals."

This place has a task force similar to what the Jaegers were, thought Wave. Don't tell me these guys have Teigu…

"This year is said to be special—all of the Titans are competing."

"Sounds like we have our work cut out for us," replied Tatsumi. "Thanks for the heads up."

"No problem," the boy said, waving as the duo left.

Titans of the Desert, thought Tatsumi. Maybe this tournament won't be easy money after all…

VVV

"I have signed the documents!" passionately announced Seryu while the official just blankly stared at her. Wait until those two hear of the superb names I gave them! They'll be overjoyed!

Her self-praise was interrupted when she felt a strange presence around her. It turned out to be a short, blue-haired girl in a bunny-hoodie. She was wearing knee-high boots and the hoodie looked to be several sizes too big.

Don't tell me she's a participant. "Are you lost, young citizen?" Seryu asked while reaching for the girl's shoulder. She stopped instantly when a pair of stone gray eyes met hers. The girl kept walking without a single word, leaving Seryu frozen. "That just now…"

"Don't mind her," said an approaching woman, adorned in beautifully made battle armor. She wore a cocky expression, and her short blond hair partly covered her bright-yellow eyes. "She's not the talking type."

"My apologies," Seryu replied, bowing. "She looked so young that I…just assumed she was lost. I should've been more aware." The woman's expression hardened as she gazed at her. Not knowing what to do, Seryu averted her eyes in response.

"…Where are you from?" she asked.

Does she suspect me? Shoving her worries aside, she answered accordingly. "I hail from the North. I am a traveler who takes part in these types of events often."

"Is that so…?"

While not saying another word, she walked past her slowly. A feeling of danger was coming from behind Seryu so suddenly, she moved into a battle stance while being prepared for a confrontation. After turning around, she was met with the woman's cocky smile, as well as her spear, being only inches from piercing her neck.

"You're experienced," she said, withdrawing her spear. "I hope we face each other in the tournament. Bye." She walked away while Seryu began to have a bad foreboding feeling.

That little girl and woman are dangerous. I can't really say what the girl is, but that woman is definitely an exceptional warrior—she's a seasoned killer.

VVV

The two raven-haired sisters were doing some reconnaissance. The corrupt church was located far to the east of the city. Akame and Kurome were positioned on the rafters while the preacher was talking about some strange events.

"These guys are nuttier than that giant squirrel-like Danger Beast I fought one time," concluded Kurome. "How long do we have to stay here, Sis? That tournament will probably start soon."

"I thought by observing them, some new information might surface. However, we have learned nothing that Chelsea didn't already inform us of beforehand."

"Our glorious day of salvation is here!" yelled the preacher, making many of the members start clapping. "The day where God shall rise is upon us!"

"God shall rise…" repeated Kurome. "What could that mean? Think it could be just more hot air?"

"I'm not sure, but…" Akame had the feeling something interesting was about to come to light. "Perhaps, there's something more to this than some crazy prophecy…"

"For in two days, when this town is most active—we shall resurrect Enti!"

Every single church member cheered even louder as Akame put a finger to her chin. She had no idea who or what Enti was. She looked at her sister for a possible answer and was surprised to see how serious she looked. Her eyes were wide and her breathing had gotten erratic.

"Kurome?" she asked. It was incredibly rare to see her shaken up like this.

"Hey, Sis…" Kurome had a shadow crossing over her face. She stood up while putting a hand on Yatsufusa's hilt and said, "Let's kill all of these bastards right now."