crazychessgurl: Honestly, I'm not sure when the sadness is going to let up. xD

Kalos-rei: That part was hilarious! I seriously felt sorry for Yata. And the fact that when Yata returned her undergarment she didn't put it back on lmao.

hisuiryuu: Ha! Thank you, I'm glad I captured her well! I had to re-watch a couple episodes to kind of familiarize myself with her character a bit more, which made me realize how annoying she could be.

Toreh: I can for sure picture them doing that too! They're so into each other. c: And I'm so happy to hear that, seriously! I'm glad you love this!

I'm really sorry for the longer wait with this chapter btw. :c

I've been busy but I have a lot of free time now.

I hope you all enjoy this chapter, and I'm sorry for any errors.

I plan on going back and editing earlier chapters in the future to clear any mistakes and such.

But anyways, thank you all for reading, reviewing, etc.! ❤

Chapter 48


My fingers knead into Reisi's shoulders while my thumbs move in circular motions just behind his neck. He's lacking a shirt right now which I don't mind at all. I'm lacking one too actually, along with pants. It's late and we are both ready for bed. We would be sleeping right now if Reisi didn't have paperwork to fill out.

He said I could go to bed but I denied. I'm going to stay up with my Pirate King. I sit up a bit on my knees to look at his tablet. He's signing his signature at the bottom of a lot of documents using a surface pen.

Mihashira Tower along with the Slates have been turned over to Reisi, as well as the government agencies that the Gold King would normally be responsible for. I frown a bit. Now he has even more work to do. I can tell everything is starting to take a toll on him, but yet he's still remains strong and is working hard.

I've never really paid attention to the government, so I don't know the debts of it. However, I do know the obvious and basic things. I guess I sort of have an idea with how the debts of it works if I think really hard about it. Point is, I'm not able to help as much with stuff along those lines as much as I would like. I can help with everything else though. In fact, I'd say I'm just about a pro with everything else.

Ever since the "coffee table alliance" started, I didn't think we would have to dispatch as much as we were, but more Robot Ninjas are crawling out—higher ranked ones especially. The HOMRA Firefighters have been a huge help, but with so many Robot Ninjas neither of our Clans have been able to get much of a breather. Things may be even more difficult.

Now that I think of it, I don't think the Alien Clan has been out detaining Robot Ninjas as much as everyone else. I frown. That Alien King doesn't do much at all to my annoyance. This feels like a Scepter 4 and HOMRA alliance more than anything. I relax back on my knees and focus on giving Reisi the best shoulder/neck massage I can.

"What's today's date?" Reisi asks. I briefly pause in my massaging and peek at my stalker bracelet.

"It's December 21st." I answer happily, continuing my current task. I can feel his muscles loosening up beneath my fingers. "Which means Christmas is in four days. We should get another picture with Santa."

"Another one?" He questions with a smile, sending the documents to the file room for printing. He leans back into me, the back of his head against my chest. I smile warmly and my hands move to play in his soft hair.

"Maybe this time you can sit in his lap." I tease. He laughs, sinking deeper into my body. One of my arms wrap loosely around him and my lips press against the top of his head.

"Maybe." He replies, obviously dismissing that idea. That just makes me even more determined to have him sit in Santa's lap. "What do you want for Christmas?"

"You." I vocalize with a grin, hugging him to me. "Just you."

"Just me?" He smiles and sets his tablet aside.

"Yup. Nothing in this world can make me happier than what you make me, Reisi." I beam. "What about you? What do you want for Christmas?"

"You." He chuckles when I laugh. He turns so he's facing me. I peck his nose right before he crawls on top of me, making me lay flat on the bed. "You're all I've ever wanted."

"Reisi," I say his name tenderly, looking up into those pretty eyes of his.

My heart is fluttering in my rib cage, taking off into flight. My hand settles behind his neck to urge him closer. His lips come in contact with mine. We both stupidly smile as we exchange a loving kiss. His arms loop around my waist and he pulls us both up into a sitting position. I let out a happy sigh and rest against him.

"If you don't want me to go out and buy you something, what do you want to do for Christmas?" He inquires.

I close my eyes as I think. What do I want to do for Christmas? I know for sure I want to spend it with Reisi. Something we can do together… My answer pops up in my head and I peer up at him with a smile.

"Ice skating. I've never actually attempted it before, but I like watching people do it."

"You've never been ice skating?" He looks at me in surprise. I nod sheepishly. "I'll take you then."

"I can't wait." I smile blithely. "What do you want to do for Christmas?"

"I want to hunt for a Christmas tree." He answers with a smile. I wrap my arms around his neck.

"Aw, that's cute Reisi." I coo, leaning back with a laugh when he acts like he's going to bite my nose at that.

"You'll pick one out with me, won't you?" He chuckles lowly.

"Of course!" I say through a sudden yawn. He smiles at me. "When do you go see the Prime Minister tomorrow?"

"First thing in the morning." He answers. "I would take you along with me, but I have this strong feeling you might attack him." He lightly scratches the back of my head when I make a confused face.

"Why would I attack him?" I blink.

"That man isn't fond of me or Scepter 4." He explains and my mouth drops open. "So he's considerably rude."

"Now I have to be there with you." I poke his chest for emphasis. He grabs my hand, bringing it to his lips with a smirk. "I promise I won't attack him. Well… as long as he doesn't try to attack you I won't."

"I'll take you with me. I was only teasing." He laughs. "Ms. Awashima will be coming too."

Before I can reply, another big and loud yawn escapes my mouth which makes Reisi lay me down with a smile. He lays next to me, pulling the covers over us both. His body moves so it's against mine and his arms wrap around me. The side of his face is pressed against mine as his head rests atop my own almost like it's a pillow. My lips tug upwards.

"Thank you for staying up with me," He whispers, turning his head and kissing my cheek. "My beautiful Pirate Queen."

"Anything for my handsome Pirate King." I murmur, closing my eyes and nuzzling against him. I love being close to him. It's the best feeling in the world.

After a minute or two, my eyes slowly crack open when I feel Reisi's hand move in between my legs. His digits rub against me in all the right places, making me let out a helpless and pleasurable breath. Clearly he's not ready for bed. My eyes move up to his face to see an innocent yet suggestive expression.

"Reisi." I exhale, not even feeling tired anymore. He just has that much of a magical effect on me.

"Want me to stop?" He asks, his fingers slowly moving beneath the fabric of my undergarment.

"No. I just wanted to tell you you're crazy." I say before rolling on top of him. He lets out a laugh when my hands glide up his muscled front, and right before my lips seal his with an ardent kiss.


There is a slight bounce in my step as I stroll down the city sidewalk and enjoy my breakfast. The cold breeze ruffles my messy bun and fails at penetrating through my furry earmuffs. I hum happily, dragging my tongue across my breakfast again.

Reisi is walking by my side, papers tucked under his arm. He's smiling at me. Seri is walking at my other side and openly looking at me like I'm weird. We are on our way to see the Prime Minister, supposedly the most powerful man in Japan, after my Pirate King that is. When I lick my breakfast again, Seri lets out a sigh. Reisi looks over at her with an amused smirk.

"What's wrong, Ms. Awashima?" He asks.

"Do you want to try?" I ask, turning my head in her direction. I hold out my cream cheese covered bagel to her. She takes a step away from me at that.

"After your tongue along with the Captain's have been on it?" She speaks bluntly. "No thanks."

I giggle in response, holding my bagel up to Reisi's mouth instead so he can take another lick at the cream cheese on top. At this rate this bagel is going to turn into a plain one. Oh well. Reisi takes a decent lick, and then our teeth both bite into the opposite ends of the bagel. We stare at each other lovingly as we chew, humming happily at the taste of cream cheese. Then, our faces slowly morph into disgust. Seri smiles proudly.

"Ms. Awashima…" Reisi starts in distaste.

"Anko filled bagel?!" I shrill in horror. "You said this was cinnamon!"

"It is, but it is also filled with red bean paste. You both should be happy. You are getting an adequate amount of nutrients." She smiles.

"Punish her Reisi! Make her walk the plank!" I jab a finger at Seri in complete betrayal.

"Ms. Awashima, you are to walk the plank when we return." Reisi informs and Seri raises her brows, wondering if he is serious.

"In this cold weather, Captain?" She asks a bit nervously.

"Perhaps that is a little cruel…" Reisi muses to himself, smirking. "Alright, laps then."

"C-captain?" Seri looks at him in shock. He probably never told her to run laps before. I laugh out loud, looping my arm with Seri's after I toss the bagel to a group of pigeons who happily eat it.

"You can be my running partner for tonight." I beam.

"You have laps to run?" Reisi inquires. I grin sheepishly and nod. "What did you do to get Ms. Awashima mad this time?"

"She said anko is the worst thing on the planet." Seri answers.

"Only because you said cheesecake was trash." I respond with a huff.

"I was only stating the truth." She smiles in amusement at the narrowing of my eyes. "On top of that, she also has a habit of sneaking into my room to steal my nail polish."

"Yeah…" I admit. I then suddenly gasp as I remember something and drag Seri and myself closer to Reisi. "You know how my garlic crackers have been disappearing? Well, I caught Seri red-handedly eating them. She's the thief."

"That was my first time eating them. Dōmyōji is the one 'stealing' your crackers. Hidaka and Gotō too. They bring them into the men's dormitory all the time."

"Those Pirates." I grumble to myself. I should've known it was them. "Quartermaster Seri, why was I not informed of this sooner?"

"I thought you already knew, due to your 'Pirate Queen' status."

"I as the Pirate Queen have more important things to worry about."

"Like?" She inquires.

"...Top secret things." I answer, not able to come up with anything else.

I'm not sure why, but me and Seri start laughing right then and there. Reisi shakes his head at us both, his lips curved upwards into a smile. His hand moves to hold mine when the Prime Minister's Official Residence comes into view.

It looks just as important as all the other government buildings. Its sleek and shiny glass glistens under the sun. Security is posted outside the front doors, and I can only imagine how many of these professionally trained security guards are actually inside. Before we get into earshot with them, Reisi bends down so his mouth is by my ear.

"Remember what I said about the Prime Minister's demeanor. Don't lash out or else I will have to bail you out of jail." He whispers.

"If they can catch me." I snort in laughter. He nudges me playfully with a chuckle.

When we approach the front doors, the security people tense at the sight of Reisi. My brows raise. No way, even they are intimidated by Reisi? I laugh to myself. Could the Prime Minister be intimidated by him as well? Now I'm eager to get to his office.

We don't need an escort, and nobody bothers to ask us if we need any assistance. It's probably because of our uniforms which makes sense. We are a Special Police Force Organization which is sort of a federal agency. I always tend to overlook that though. I don't really care about the government.

The three of us enter an elevator, going up to the top and fifteenth floor. There is a door already propped open towards the end of the long hallway with a woman standing just outside of it. I stare at her as I trail behind Reisi.

Her black hair is cut into a short bob, ending at her chin. The attire she is clothed in is a sumptuous white business suit with black hems. In her arms that are crossed over her chest is a clipboard with attached papers. Her dark eyes land on us and she pokes her head inside the opened doorway.

"Mr. Prime Minister, Captain Munakata of Scepter 4 has arrived along with Lieutenant Awashima and another subordinate." She informs the Prime Minister that is residing in the room, her tone very formal. I smile a bit, crossing my arms. She doesn't know my name. I'm not sure why that brings me some satisfaction.

The Prime Minister speaks almost inaudible words, but I can tell by his tone he is annoyed. That's when my smile fades. I take a couple wider steps so I'm walking just a hint in front of Reisi, like a vigilant bodyguard. I feel Reisi's amused eyes on me. We step into the Prime Minister's office. It's nice, but I personally think Reisi's office is nicer.

The Prime Minister is sitting at his desk which is placed in front of a large window that takes up a good portion of the wall. There are two tall lamps places behind his desk, and in the corner of the room is a sitting area with white chairs, as well as a pot of white flowers. Very sophisticated.

I stay beside Seri, the both of us standing by the door as Reisi walks forward. My keen eyes are locked onto the Prime Minister. He's a middle aged man with short brown hair and equally brown eyes, and with quite pronounced cheekbones. His attire consists of a dark blue business suit. He looks irked when Reisi places the papers on his desk. The Prime Minister doesn't even greet him or any of us. It's clear he really does hate Scepter 4. One would think someone like him would be thankful for us.

"What is all of this?" The Prime Minister asks in a vulgar tone. My eyes narrow into a glare and Seri gives me a look, a look that silently says, "control yourself."

"Oversight of Mihashira Tower and the Dresden Slates has been officially turned over to us, Scepter 4." Reisi explains coolly, standing tall in front of the Prime Minister's desk with his arms folded behind his back. "You should also be getting a letter from the Gold Clan soon."

"So you get to act like King now that His Excellency is gone, is that it?" The Prime Minister rudely retorts. Oh I definitely don't like this man. The way he's talking to my Pirate King makes me want to jump him right now.

"Not 'acting.' I was chosen by the Slates." Reisi counters calmly, walking off to the side. It's obvious he's used to the Prime Minister's attitude. "Also, the Gold Clan's sole authority to issue orders to each government agency will be transferred to us."

"That's absurd!" The Prime Minister growls and my jaw locks. "Just when…!"

"'Just when is the weight hanging over my head is finally gone?' Is that it?" Reisi starts walking back towards the Prime Minister with a smirk.

My heart constricts and the Prime Minister remains silent. It's clear to me the Reisi stole the words out of his mouth. So… the Prime Minister wants Reisi to…? My fingers curl into fists at my sides. This jerk.

"Let me reassure you, Mr. Prime Minister. We have no intention of controlling this country's future out of self-interest. At this time, we are confronting the Green Clan which threatens the peace of our nation. And I'm just going to request cooperation from various quarters. That is all." Reisi explains.

"You demand sole authority to issue orders and then call it request?" He speaks to Reisi like he's dumb.

"One must have a foundation to maintain order. So, Mr. Prime Minister, I 'request' your cooperation as well." Reisi replies. Even though his back is to me, I can tell he's giving the older man one of his intimidating looks.

"In other words, I have to obey you." The Prime Minister grumbles lowly.

"If you put it that way, yes."

I draw in a calming breath, trying to ignore this 'Prime Minister.' Out of the corner of my eye, I can see a look of unease and worry on Seri's face. The longer I stare at her, the more my eyes sadden. I know she's worrying about Reisi. Sometimes I forget I'm not the only one worrying.

Since I'm close enough to her, I hold her hand briefly in a comforting gesture. She looks over at me, forcing a small smile. She looks at me in turmoil. I frown, getting ready to question until my ears pick up the Prime Minister's voice again. I had blocked him out for a moment.

"You're just an intolerable young brat." He scowls. "What could the Slates possibly see in you?"

That's it. I release Seri's hand and strut forward. My face is deathly calm as I approach the Prime Minister. His eyes are drawn to me. They roam up and down before they settle on my face. Seri whisper shouts at me, the color draining from her face. ...I'm so going to get in trouble. But this man deserves to be told off.

"An intolerable young brat you say?" I walk past Reisi and my hands slam against the Prime Minister's desk. I lean forward, glaring at the man. Reisi's eyes on the back of my head are extremely distinct. "It sounds like you are referring to yourself. Quit acting like a pouty child because the Slates didn't see any worth in you to be King. You're supposed to be the Prime Minister, so why don't you fix your 'intolerable' attitude and act like the professional man you are supposed to be."

It's silent, too silent. The Prime Minister's eyes glare into mine. His face is a little red. He slowly raises his hand, pressing down on a red button at the corner of his desk. His eyes don't once break from mine. I hear rapid footsteps behind me and turn around, paling slightly at all the buff security guards stomping towards me. They all have guns in their hands.

"...I was just kidding." I hold my hands up and take a step away from the Prime Minister, smiling sheepishly. Reisi lets out a miffed sigh, bringing his hand over his face. A disappointed gesture. Disappointed. My heart kicks my rib cage hard at my actions. I then squeak in fright as the security lunges towards me.


Reisi stands in front of Akira, arms crossed as he peers down at her. Awashima is standing at his side, giving Akira the same look he's giving her. A chiding look. Akira's head is ducked in a blameworthy gesture. Her thumbs are twirling around one another in her lap timidly.

She's sitting on a bench a good ways away from the Prime Minister's Official Residence. The good news is she didn't get arrested, but she did get escorted out of the building with guns at her back. She is also banned from the building, in fact, she can't go within one hundred feet of it.

He holds back a sigh at what she did. He really does appreciate how she sticks up for him all the time. Her fortitude is also greatly admired by him. Whether it's Kings or high ranked Government Officials affronting him, or just simple people walking down the street, she defends him. Honestly when people affront him it doesn't bother him much, but it seems to bother Akira a ton. But he had warned her about the Prime Minister earlier.

"Akira." He speaks her name earnestly. She slowly peeks up at him, her eyes nervous and gleaming completely with remorse. Anyone would compare how she looks to a puppy who knows it did wrong, tail between it's legs and all. She is practically giving him the puppy eyes right now. She knows he's not pleased with her. It is hard to be mad at a face as cute as hers.

"What did I tell you?" He asks her in a lecturing tone.

"You told me…" Her eyes slowly revert from his to stare at his feet. "Not to lash out."

"And what did you do?" He questions further. Inwardly he is fighting the urge to smile at how adorable she is.

"I lashed out." She answers, her hands now flat on her thighs.

"You realize you went against my words, don't you?"

Akira visibly tenses. Her eyes are shining with horror now, absolute shame and guilt. She looks like she was just told the most worse news in the world. Although Reisi doesn't like that look, he's trying to take this seriously. Trying, though not hard enough. Akira clasps her hands in front of her and she bows lowly in immense apology.

"I'm really, really, really, sorry Reisi." She apologizes. "I just didn't like how he was talking to you and I…" She trails off.

Reisi stares at her clearly sorry form. He can't be mad at her. There is no way. He wasn't really mad at her, just a little disappointed. He knows she didn't mean to go against his words and is completely loyal to him. The man did deserve it, he wanted to tell him off himself actually. He's not going to say she went against his orders, because he didn't give her any orders.

Thinking about her actions now is almost laughable though. It wasn't funny when it happened, but now it's the opposite. Her form towering over the Prime Minister of all people was bold, priceless. He's never seen that ignorant man's face turn red in anger. How is she able to make everything funny to him? He doesn't understand it.

He crouches down in front of her, making her eyes meet his. Easily he can sense her nervousness as he glares intensely at her. Her lower lip trembles slightly at his severe glare. Little did she know he's only acting. His hands dart to her sides, his fingers tickling her. She starts laughing her hilarious laugh uncontrollably. He loves that laugh.

She tries to get away from him, but she ends up falling forward into him. At her sudden weight, Reisi's bottom comes in contact with the sidewalk. He doesn't stop tickling her. She tries crawling away from him but he drags her back with a laugh. She gives up, her laughs too intense and eating away at her strength. Nearby people watch in amusement, some stunned that the Captain of Scepter 4 is on the ground and laughing. Awashima merely shakes her head, smiling at them both.

When Reisi stops tickling Akira, she's still laughing. He chuckles, hugging her to him with a smile and wiping the tears of laughter from her eyes. She breathes deeply into his chest, trying to compose herself.

"I thought you were mad at me." She breathes out. Slowly she pushes herself off of him so her bright eyes can meet his.

"I can't be mad at you." He caresses her cheek. "Just listen to me next time."

"I will." She nods her head with a small smile. Then she apologizes again, her head lowering. His hand moves to the top of her head, his fingertips pleasantly rubbing against her scalp. "...Sorry."

"I'm surprised they didn't do anything more strict to you." Awashima speaks up. Reisi and Akira both look over at her. "They actually let you off easy."

Reisi can't help but to silently agree. He expected something more extreme to happen. There is no reason to complain though. His Pirate Queen is here with him. She is the light in his life, the source of his many smiles and laughs. Akira smiles innocently when all their PDAs start beeping.

With a small frown, Reisi pulls out his PDA. Since all three of their PDAs went off, that means they have all received the same alert. If they have all received the same alert, that would mean a Beta Strain has been spotted and is causing trouble. His eyes scan over the alert on his PDA, confirming his thoughts. He lets out a sigh, inwardly complaining about why there is a Beta at this time. Truthfully he just wants to relax. He has been very busy for a while now.

"Captain?" Awashima's voice makes him look over at her. She's giving him an awaiting look. Akira's giving him the same look, though her face is more curious and maybe a hint excited. She likes action. Reisi slowly smiles. He's going to be fighting alongside his Pirate Queen.

"Ms. Awashima, inform the rest of the Special Operations Squad to head towards the scene of the crime." He orders.

"Sir!" She salutes and carries out her task.

Reisi gets on his feet, helping Akira up as well. His eyes land on a police motorcycle. Since he is the Captain of Scepter 4, the Special Police Force, he naturally has authority to take the vehicle. He grabs Akira's hand and begins striding towards it with her in tow.

"Me and Akira will go on ahead." He informs Awashima.

"Wait a second…" Akira starts, her face a little uneasy as she stares at the motorcycle Reisi stops in front of. "We're getting on this thing?"

"You're not scared, are you?" He smirks, getting on the motorbike and patting the extra space on the seat behind him. Akira suddenly wears a pout on her face. She's pouting at him questioning if she's scared, as well as the fact that she is a little nervous at getting on that. He reads her easily. With a short laugh, he grins at her. "I'm proficient in driving a motorcycle."

"I-I know it's just… ah, what the heck." She sighs to herself, carefully taking a seat behind him on the bike. Her arms wrap around his midsection firmly. Reisi can't help but to smile at her touch. Even the simplest of contact with her can make his heart surge elatedly. He can feel her forehead press against his back.

"It's just that you've never been on a motorcycle." He states knowingly, finishing her most recent sentence. She nods just before he starts the bike. It's loudness surprises her, making her hold onto him tighter. One thing he noticed is that she doesn't like loud noises.

He places his hand over her arm around his midsection before looking over at Awashima. They both exchange a resolute nod. He then makes the bike accelerate at full speed, taking off towards the crime scene. Akira's arms around him grow tight, her whole face buried in his back. An amused and small smile forms on his face. Is her fear of being on this motorcycle equal to her fear of bugs? He still can't believe she's so scared of bugs.

He weaves the motorcycle around traffic swiftly and skillfully. At one point he glances of his shoulder and at Akira. Her face isn't buried in his back anymore, making the uneasy expression on it apparent. Wide eyes, furrowed brows, pursed lips. She looks like a frightful kid about to get a shot. It is then he remembers she's scared of needles too. He can't stop himself from laughing at the memory of her trying to escape getting a shot by claiming she had to use the bathroom. She has so many quirks and he loves each and every one.

"You're laughing at me aren't you?!" Akira whines in complaint.

"Perhaps." Reisi laughs out. She pouts just before a smile suddenly tugs on her lips at the sound of his laugh, the laugh she adores. Both of their eyes suddenly widen a bit when another motorcycle pulls out in front of them, traveling at a much faster speed.

Reisi looks down at the odometer, seeing the motorcycle he is on is traveling at the maximum speed. He looks back ahead to see the other motorcycle ahead of them getting smaller as it get a further away. There is no way a bike can be traveling that fast. Judging by the way the man on the motorcycle keeps glancing back at them warily gives away that this may the Beta they are after.

"Akira contact Enomoto." Reisi tells Akira who quickly nods and starts dialing Enomoto's number on her 'stalker bracelet.' "He should know by now the details of this Strain we're after."

"Aye, aye." She salutes, her bracelet ringing as she waits for Enomoto to answer. He answers almost instantly. "Hey Enomoto, do you know anything about the Beta we're after?"

"Yes. I have just confirmed that he is able to amplify technology." He answers.

"...So." Akira starts in confusion, looking ahead at the speeding motor bike.

"So he is able to control the flow of complex machinery, enhance it and push it beyond its limit." Reisi affirms, making Akira's mouth form an "o" shape as she understands his power now.

"He's a Goober Biker then." Akira speaks. He looks over his shoulder, giving her a tedious look at that nickname. She smiles widely at him. "You got a better nickname?"

"Beta Biker." He answers and she starts laughing. He chuckles.

"Uh…" Enomoto speaks sheepishly. Reisi and Akira nearly forgotten he was still on the phone. Reisi clears his throat, composing himself during this serious and unexpected mission. Akira bites down on her tongue, trying to keep her many more laughs at bay.

"Thank you, Enomoto. We are currently pursuing the Beta Strain." Reisi informs.

"Yes, we have located him on the city camera. Captain, should we set up a road blockade and get a trap ready?" Enomoto asks.

Reisi is quiet for a moment as he thinks. Setting up a road blockade and a trap would work, but right now it is extremely difficult since he cannot keep up with the Strain to lure it to the designated location. He can't keep up, but Akira can. He looks at her from over his shoulder, getting ready to give her orders to catch up to the Beta but pauses.

She's looking at the motorcycle beneath them with calculating eyes. Her bright eyes are squinted, her cheeks puffed out a bit. That's her adorable thinking face. If he wasn't driving this motorcycle, he would touch her cheek. It's obvious she has some sort of plan, or is thinking of one at least.

"What's your plan, Akira?" He asks her, looking forward. He can sense her surprised gaze on him for asking her what her plan is. His lips curve upwards as he smiles. She should know by now he trusts her with everything. "I'm trusting you with the success of this arrest."

"R-really?" She stutters. The look she's giving him reminds him of when he told her to drive. "But what if my plan fails?"

"Then I'm tying you down." He smirks, glasses gleaming. "I can picture it now. You tied to the—"

"You're so dirty!" Akira squeaks with extremely red cheeks, refusing to let him finish. She thumps the back of his head. He laughs. "If anything, I'm tying you down for putting me in this situation!"

"I can't wait." He purrs lowly, making Akira's eyelid twitch because he doesn't seem to mind being tied down. She briefly looks to the side, trying to get rid of her blush. He loves teasing her.

"Um…" Enomoto mumbles quietly, embarrassed at hearing their exchange. Reisi and Akira yet again compose themselves.

"Well anyways, I was thinking if maybe I could make the motorcycle travel faster by lowering the air's resistance around it." Akira explains. "Maybe the both of us will be able to catch up, and when we do we can jump him together."

Reisi thinks over her plan of catching up to the Beta Strain. Akira is able to move at blinding speeds by lowering the air's resistance around her into the negatives. He recalls her doing that once before on him when she had helped him regroup with his clansmen on the school island when he was injured. She wasn't even sure it was working until he had confirmed it to her.

She's used to doing such things on herself, and once claimed it takes more effort to enhance speed than to turn invisible. Enhancing the speed of a motorcycle as heavy as the one they are currently on, and as well as they air around themselves may drain her quickly.

He glances at her again, seeing determination shining in her eyes. She can do it. He has no doubt in his mind. She'll just go to sleep earlier tonight. That's one thing he noticed; whenever she uses a high amount of her abilities she grows tired and requires more sleep—however, she also complains about sore muscles which is the strain her powers cast upon her body if over exerted.

If they do catch up to the Beta, they can either stop him themselves or slow him down to lure him into a trap.

"Alright. Enomoto, get the trap ready." Reisi tightens his grip on the handlebars, getting ready for this huge speed boost they are about to get. His next words are directed to Akira. "If you feel yourself growing tired, let me know. I don't want you to exhaust yourself."

"Aye, aye. I can't tie you down if I'm exhausted, can I?" Akira smirks, her hands moving to his shoulders as she focuses. She tried to mimic his tone. He smiles, his teeth showing. She's hilarious.

The air around him suddenly starts the feel foreign. It feels cold, but at the same time it doesn't. It's difficult to describe, but his body feels strikingly light. He would describe it by saying it's like gravity doesn't exist. He raises a couple of his fingers off the handlebars to experiment with the new feeling. His fingers curl back around the handlebars when the bike slowly starts to gain speed. She's making it gain speed slowly on purpose so he can adjust to it.

Light and hazy mist starts to surround the bike. He recognizes the sight from when Akira uses her enhanced speed. It's like a light fog, a morning mist you would see drifting across the ground as the sun rises. Akira lightly squeezes his shoulders and leans forward so she can see his face.

"You ready to go faster?" She asks, an excited smile on her face. Her eyes give away that she's questioning whether he could steer the bike when it's going so fast.

"Of course." He smirks, his glasses gleaming as he stares ahead at the Beta. "Are you scared of going faster?"

"Psh, no." She grins and leans back. "Alright Pirate King, lets see how well you do when you're traveling as fast as I can."

"Don't hold back, my Pirate Queen."

She doesn't hold back. The motorcycle shoots forward, visibly cutting through the air. They gain on the Beta who now looks tense. Moving this fast is a first. It's exciting. Akira starts laughing all giddy. Reisi's smiling, genuinely having fun. Akira Yukimura, you are amazing. Everything he does with her he cherishes and enjoys.

He only wishes he could do more.


Oh man, what a rush. There is a wide grin on my face. My hands move from Reisi's shoulder to his sides. Traveling at super speed with my Pirate King. This mission is by far my favorite one yet. My eyes move from the now frantic Beta Strain ahead to the motorcycle below me.

This thing is seriously heavy, requiring a lot of focus and energy to make it move as fast as it is. I feel myself draining already, like falling sand in an hourglass. Using this technique on another person and a motorcycle is undoubtedly draining me way faster. I'm sure I'll be able to hold out for at least a few more minutes. I shake my head. I won't focus on my draining energy, it'll make it even more obvious.

Reisi's an expert at steering this thing, especially at this speed. I'm amazed. But then again, Reisi always amazes me. The Beta is nearly within our reach. He doesn't appear to have any weapons on him, so that's a good sign. He suddenly waves his hand in the air, making me raise a brow. Reisi narrows his eyes slightly. That kind of looked like a signal.

Just then, I feel something cutting through the air above us at a startling rate. I look up, my eyes growing large when I see a thick and large green electric blast barreling towards us. That almost looks like the Lightning Bolt Jutsu that Reisi dispelled back when Mihashira Tower was under attack. It took Reisi's kingly strength to freeze the Lightning Bolt Jutsu, and even Anna the Red King wasn't able to stop it. Cold sweat breaks out along the side of my face.

I thought the Green King could only summon that? That has to mean he's nearby, right? No. He summoned that even though he wasn't present at the Tower. My eyes catch sight of someone along the rooftop with a large sniper-like weapon. Even though I don't know what the Green King looks like, or even if he is a person, I know that's not him.

It doesn't matter who is behind that thing though, this shot is meant to kill us no doubt. I'm aware of how much points me and Reisi are worth, and I'm also aware how these Robot Ninjas will do just about anything to acquire points to become J-Ranks. All they're interested in is points. My teeth grit.

Reisi could counter that, but he is focused on driving. He needs to keep focused on the road ahead. With how fast we're going the chance of crashing is high. However, he keeps glancing up. He's aware of the attack. In fact, he's probably debating on what we should do. If he was going to do or say something, I don't give him time.

"I got it." I say determinedly, standing straight up on the footrest. Honestly I have no clue if I could counter this. I keep a firm hand on Reisi's shoulder for balance, raising my other one skyward. Blue Aura seeps from my fingertips, forging a large barrier force field over our heads. Half of my energy is directed towards keeping this bike moving fast and the other half is directed to this barrier.

The green electricity clashes against my Aura vigorously. It's packed full of power, but not as much as I expected. Reisi's Aura clashing against my own when he lost control of it a couple times was more difficult, so was our spar at the tower. Maybe this attack is just something similar to the Lightning Bolt Jutsu. Or… I look down at Reisi. Is it because my Pirate King is with me? He's my strength, and the person I will protect with everything I got. I look back up, watching as my Aura starts to freeze the foe's attack.

Reisi removes one of his hands from the handlebar and raises it up much like mine is. My lips part when Aura seeps from his own fingertips. His Aura combines with my own, strengthening it to a whole new level beyond anyone else's reach. I've never seen such a powerful in appearance Aura. I glance down, seeing a smile on his face when our Aura freezes the green electricity, making it shatter into tiny shards of ice. Carefully, I lower myself back onto the seat and briefly stare at my hand.

"Well what do you know… we really are strongest together." I murmur to myself with a warm smile.

"Of course." Reisi chuckles as he confirms. I smile at him. "Ready to wrap this up? Draw your sword."

"Okay." I nod, doing as he says.

"Enomoto, is the trap ready?" Reisi asks. I look down at my stalker bracelet, forgetting he was still on the line.

"Yes sir!" Enomoto answers. "Everyone is in place and waiting."

"Good. Check their location, Akira."

"Aye, aye." I say, pulling up the city map on my stalker bracelet. They are little ways ahead. "They are just ahead. We'll have to make this guy turn left in order for him to get there."

"Alright. We'll need to cut him off then." Reisi affirms. I nod, agreeing with his words. We need to pass him, so we have to go faster. "Is this as fast as you're able to make this bike go?"

"I can make us go faster but only for a short amount of time… this is kind of hard." I admit sheepishly.

My energy is draining so much faster than normal with this giant and heavy motorcycle. I can feel a minor amount of strain in me already. Reisi makes a face, like he's thinking of another route to cut him off. He's concerned.

"I'll be fine." I smile in reassurance. "We're so close. One last speed boost won't hurt. Are you ready?"

"I'm ready when you are." He answers.

"Here we go." I say, closing my eyes and tinkering with the air.

I make the already lowered air's resistance drop drastically. I can feel us shoot forward. My eyes open, seeing us speed past the Beta. Before we pass him fully, I slash my sword into the back tire of his motorcycle. Reisi turns in front of the Beta's path, and I raise the air's resistance so he can stop successfully. The Beta turns his bike, down the road the trap isn't on.

Hastily, I get off the motorcycle and run down the road the Beta went at blinding speed. Sparks are flying from his back wheel. I pass him, turning on my feet while taking a couple backwards steps. With a grunt, I swing my sword horizontally, hitting him with my Aura and a gust of wind. My attack hits him hard like a hammer, sending him and his motorcycle backwards and down the intended road we wanted him to turn down. I see Blue Aura erupt where he was sent flying.

I lower my sword with a sigh of relief, barely making out my Pirate Crew down there. The back of my hand rubs against my forehead. I lower it, seeing a thin layer of sweat despite the chill in the air. I actually wasn't aware weight played a factor in enhancing speed. That was my first time attempting that. It's not something I would do again unless I really need to. That was still so fun though.

"Are you alright?" I turn my head, seeing Reisi walking towards me. I face him with a grin.

"Yeah. Did the trap work?" I ask, moving towards him. When I'm close enough he wraps his arm around me and we both start walking towards where the Pirate Crew is.

"It did. You blasted him right into it." He chuckles, no doubt remembering the sight. It probably looked funny from his angle. "I nearly laughed at the sight."

"You did laugh." I state, having a strong feeling he did. His smile gives away that I'm right. "Ha! But I guess this means I helped this mission become a success."

"Indeed. You did a great job." He ruffles up my hair as the Pirate Crew comes into view. They all wear successful grins, well, everyone but Fushimi who looks bored as always.

"You and the Captain are so dirty!" Hidaka starts laughing, clutching his stomach when we near them. Everyone nods immediately in agreement. If everyone agrees, then that means…

"...It seems Enomoto wasn't the only one who heard our exchange." Reisi whispers to me.

"W-we weren't serious!" I stutter out, my cheeks warming.

"I was." Reisi smirks, making me openly gawk at him.

"Reisi!" I complain.


"R-Reisi! Stop it!"

"Stay still." He says, grabbing my foot again.

"That won't help!" I whine.

"It will if you stay still and relax."

"I'm too ticklish." I try to pry my foot from his grasp. He swats at my hand and I can't help but to snort in laughter at how determined he is.

On the way back, I got a cramp in my foot which is normal for me after displaying a certain amount of my powers. I would describe the cramp as a muscle pulling, like a rubber-band about to snap. Reisi said it was a "charley horse." Anyways, I caused a huge scene going up the stairs by clutching my foot and repeating the word "ow." So now he's trying to give me a foot massage. I briefly start thinking about the massage I given him earlier.

Reisi's finger grazes against the bottom of my foot and I start laughing uncontrollably. He shakes his head in amusement, placing my foot in his lap when the upper half of my body falls backwards onto the tea platform.

"Relax, seriously." He chuckles, grabbing a bottle of lotion and squirting it into his hands. "Don't laugh."

"But you're laughing!" I laugh. The smile on his face vanishes and he gives me a deliberate look. I can tell he is fighting a smile.

"No laughing."

I nod, bringing my hands over my mouth and biting down on my tongue. My eyes bore into the ceiling. I recognize the sound of him rubbing his hands together so the lotion can get on both of them. My body starts quivering. I can practically sense his hand moving towards my still achy foot.

"Don't think about it." He tells me, gesturing to how I'm picturing his hands moving towards one of my many ticklish spots. I nod, feeling his cold lotion covered hands grip my foot. A helpless and high-pitched sound seeps from my closed lips. He shushes me with a slight and unintentional laugh. "I've never knew someone could be as ticklish as you are."

His thumbs firmly and with pressure rub into the bottom of my foot, not lightly which would make me laugh. My face is openly shocked at my lack of laughter. It feels good and relieving. Reisi's touch really is magical. Slowly, I remove my hand from over my mouth. Reisi smirks at me.

"See?" He speaks, implying he was right that it would feel good. He applies more pressure on the middle of my foot, right where my cramp was. It hurts in a good way, relaxing and soothing whatever muscles are in my foot. The slight pain gradually fades. My eyes shut in content, my arm moving over them.

"Mhm," I hum softly. "...I'm spoiled."

"Spoiling you is my favorite thing to do." He smiles, his eyes catching sight of the nail polish on my toes. They are painted a sparkly blue. "Is this the nail polish you stole that caused Ms. Awashima to assign you laps?"

"Yup. Were you serious about making her run laps?" I ask, laughing at the memory.

"Yes. She made me consume my most despised food." He answers, making me laugh some more. In all honesty, she was probably trying to make me eat it. So Reisi being a victim was probably unintentional. Oh well.

"How many laps are you going to make her run?"

"The same amount she is making you run."

"So five then." I smile. "Oh, this is going to be so fun."

"You're going to be teasing her the whole time aren't you?" He chuckles.

"Of course. Seri's going to be running laps with me~"

"She's fond of you, you know." Reisi suddenly says. "You're the only one she'll let use her first name."

"What about you?" I ask, lowering my arm from over my eyes and opening them. "She's your Lieutenant."

"Well, I use her first name on rare occasions when I tease her with petty things." He admits, moving to massage my other foot. "She never comments on it."

"So you intimidate her too then." I giggle. "You intimidate everybody."

"Everyone but you." He smiles. "Even when you were a prisoner, I've always failed. Why was that?"

"Because Reisi, I am amazing." Is my simple and cheeky answer.

"You exceed amazing."

My eyes unintentionally widen as I recall him saying those words once before. He said them just before we shared our first kiss. My lilac orbs soften, and my lips curve upwards in a warm smile.

"So do you." I reply softly, sitting up so I can gaze at him. His eyes are already on mine. Those violet eyes of his… deep down they hold heartache.

"Akira…" He starts, faltering a bit. I lean forward and he releases my foot. I take his soft hands in mine, looking at him dolefully. He lets out a sigh, looking to the side. "I just wish I was able to do more."

"What do you mean?" I ask, eyebrows knitting together. "Reisi, you've already done and accomplished so much."

He shakes his head in objection, his fingers intertwining with mine as he grips them tightly.

"I wish I could do more with you." He says, making my eyes widen. "Like perhaps being able to call you, Mrs. Munakata." My heart swells, making my insides ripple and grown warm. My fingers tremble, and his hold grows tighter. "Maybe even be the father of your children if you'd be willing."

I stare at him, my mouth slightly agape while moisture gathers in my eyes. His words… they make me happy, more happy than words can say. But… I swallow a lump in my throat. My heart pangs. His words also make me feel dismal, mournful. His grip grows even tighter, his eyes gazing deeply at our hands.

"Once you said everything happens for a reason. For what reason is this happening?" He asks, sounding frustrated.

I'm quiet for a moment, my eyes moving to our hands. I don't know the answer. Normally he's the one strengthening me about his cracked Sword, telling me to stay strong, telling me not to lose my smile. Right now though, he's the one crumbling. His usual vitality is… vanishing.

His eyes are downcast, his head lowered slightly as he stares downwards grievously. Everything isn't starting to take a toll on him, it already has. My Pirate King… Right now, I need to do what he does for me no matter how hard it is. I made him a promise. Before I speak he does.

"Sorry." He sighs heavily at his most recent words.

I shake my head mutely, pulling my hands from his grip. I crawl forward, sitting up on my knees and wrapping him in my arms. My hand tangles itself in his soft and silky hair as I hold his head to my chest. My eyes squeeze shut. I wish the same. I really do.

"I wish the same, Reisi." I get out, my voice trembling. "So badly. To be able to spend countless more days with you. I don't know why everything is going the way it is, but…"

But what?

I don't know if everything is going to be alright. What we both want doesn't seem like it'll happen at all. I don't know what to say. There is nothing I can think of.

Each day that passes, the bigger the crack in his Sword grows, the more heavily everything weighs, the more our pessimistic emotions become. It's hard. Very hard, hitting us out of nowhere and randomly throughout the days. Reisi never let it show when it hit him like he is now. We're kind of capricious lately. I just hold him closer, feeling his breath seep through my clothing and into my chest. Then I find words. I open my eyes.

"I'm in your heart too, alright? Forever. My extremely handsome Reisi Munakata, my Pirate King who makes me the craziest person in the world because of how deeply he etched himself into my heart. That's what I claim but, you always say I was crazy even beforehand." I smile when his shoulders quiver, a chuckle sounding from his lips.

He looks up at me. A infatuated smile is on his lips, his glossy eyes are shining affectionately. Glossy eyes… He then crushes his lips against mine. He takes my breathe away so easily and makes me feel so many things. I move my lips against his promptly.

"Let's go somewhere." He murmurs against my lips. "Just me and you. No one else. Just us, alone and away from all of this." I nod, smiling against him and kissing him softly once more. "We would have to come back of course…" He chuckles, caressing my cheek before brushing my hair back from my forehead. "But it would be nice to get away even for a moment."

"Yeah." I agree, leaning into him. A secluded getaway. "Let's go."

"Soon." He whispers, his nose in my hair. "Very soon."


"It's Awashima." Awashima knocks on Captain Reisi Munakata's Office door, her expression… discontent. She's discontent with herself. Originally she had intended to trick Akira into eating the anko bagel. She should've known that those two share their meals. Those two probably do so much together. She'll leave some of those things to her imagination.

"Come on in, Seri!" Akira's happy voice calls out from within. Awashima barely hears Reisi's low and amused laugh. She sighs to herself, having a hard time believing she was assigned laps. She was never assigned laps. Her hand grips the doorknob and she walks in. Her eyes are immediately drawn to the cute and optimal couple sitting on the floor. Reisi Munakata and Akira Yukimura.

They are embracing each other, wrapped in each other's arms, leaning into one another, looking happy together. Despite her discontent, she smiles slightly. Akira has been perfect for her Captain. Ever since they met, her Captain smiles and laughs a lot more. Awashima's slight smile turns into a troubled one.

"Ready for your laps, Ms. Awashima?" Reisi asks, smirking as he adjusts his glasses so they briefly gleam. "You have five to run."

"Yes, Captain." She nods, resisting the urge to sulk right here and there. She came dressed in running clothes. Sweatpants and a hoodie to help her cope in the night air.

Akira's petite form stands up, sliding her boots and socks on. She's still in her uniform. The blonde's hands find her hips as she grins over at Awashima.

"Aren't you excited? We're running partners." Akira beams, bending down to share a kiss with Reisi before practically skipping over to her. Awashima doesn't understand how she's so excited about running laps. Laps are a normal thing for the girl however. Akira loops her arm with her own and her grin grows wider. She's teasing her about running laps.

"Yes. I'm very excited." Awashima plays along, acting like she cannot wait for this task. She removes her arm from the blonde's surprisingly strong grip.

"Eh?" Akira makes a confused sound. She wasn't expecting Awashima to be excited about running laps. Awashima's arm is then wrapped around her neck, holding her small form to her side with a headlock. "Hey!"

A short laugh slips from Awashima's lips. Akira is uproarious to her. She considers her a close friend. Slowly she has made her usual uptight and serious nature crumble, around her at least. Akira has taught her how to loosen up and have fun. They constantly and purposely try to get on each other's nerves back and forth, whether that would be from teasing and joking around with one another or just childishly arguing back and forth while laughing right after.

"Don't kill my Queen, Ms. Awashima." Reisi lowers his hands from the bridge of his glasses with a smile as he watches the two frivolously interact.

"I won't." Awashima replies, moving out the door with Akira in tow. "If I were to do that, I wouldn't have someone gullible enough to trick into eating red bean paste."

"Funny." Akira pouts with narrowed eyes.

Akira escapes from Awashima when they get outside. After fixing her hair, Akira faces Awashima with a smirk that she instantly compares the Reisi's usual ones. Awashima raises a brow at her challenging look.

"Let's race!" Akira declares, pointing at her with her tongue sticking out in a goofy fashion.

"I'll pass." Awashima waves her hand in objection. She knows she would lose if she were to accept. Akira is extremely fast.

Awashima starts her laps, Akira pouting after her. Soon though, Akira starts running by her side. Awashima keeps seeing her glances over.

"What?" She asks.

"You're running laps."

"You won't ever let me live this down, will you?" Awashima sighs. Akira laughs with a nod.

During their run, they see Mr. Zenjō through one of the windows. Seeing him makes Awashima remember a conversation he and her had. Her brows knit together and she begins to feel uneasy.

She knows her Captain's Sword of Damocles is getting worse, and she knows his Weismann levels are even more out of control. The countdown the the Sword's downfall is happening fast, and as the Lieutenant… when that happens… she has to…

"You alright, Seri?" Akira asks, her eyes concerned. "We ran an extra lap."

"Did we?" Awashima asks, coming to a stop in her steady run. Akira mimics her. "Sorry. I was lost in thought."

"It's okay. I've done that a couple times." Akira smiles, signalling it's nothing.

"Akira, you are aware of the Captain's Sword of Damocles." Awashima states. She watches as Akira's face drops, and how her eyes hold immense sadness.

"Yeah." She whispers. "Reisi said… his Sword falling is inevitable."

"It is." Awashima says sadly, looking downcast. "Akira, I'm going to bluntly say even though you annoy me on some occasions, you're my friend." Those words earn a smile from Akira. "And I would like to stay friends with you. But, I'm afraid…" She trails off, trying to find words.

"...Are you worried I'll leave Scepter 4 when Reisi does?" Akira asks, her voice weak. "I won't. I'll stay with you and everyone else. Reisi's dream is my dream, and I want to make our dream a reality one day. ...Though whoever is the next Blue King I won't consider my King..." She mumbles those last words to herself. Awashima smiles slightly at that because she feels the same.

"I'm not worried about that. It's just as his Lieutenant, when his Sword falls I will have to… slay him." The words "slay him" came out of her mouth shakily, weakly, frightfully. Akira's breath catches and her eyes widen and quiver ever so slightly. Her face is pale. "This is selfish of me, but I don't want that to come between us."

Awashima closes her eyes, her lips down-turned. How could Akira possibly be friends with her if she kills the man she's in love with? If she was in Akira's shoes, she couldn't be friends with herself or let alone look at her. Arms wrapping around her makes her open her eyes. Akira is hugging her, tears swirling in her eyes.

"I'll still be your friend. You'll still be my friend." Akira's voice trembles. "You won't be the one killing him… the Slates… the Silver King… it's his fault. Everything is his fault." She breathes deeply. "We're cleaning up his mess again and I hate it."

"...Yes." Awashima agrees quietly, moisture pricking at her eyes as she returns her embrace. She's dreading the same day Akira is.


"We will attack on the 24th. On Christmas Eve." Nagare informs his clansmen seriously. "We will summon every ounce of our power to seize the Dresden Slates, the ultimate sacrament. And with it, fulfill our goal as JUNGLE to..." Nagare looks around. "Are you guys listening?"

"Sure we are, Nagare." Yukari replies, checking his face mask in his mirror. He frowns and leans closer to the mirror. "Oh dear, I got a wrinkle here."

"I see, Yukari." Nagare nods. "Then I shall continue. Presently, the Slates are kept inside Mihashira Tower. My original plan was this: Now that the Gold King is no longer around to suppress its power, the Slates should be able to serve its original purpose to evolve mankind. After all, Daikaku Kokujoji was an exception, there was no way that young and inexperienced Blue King could possibly control the Slates' power. That's why I left it untouched in that building, and yet…" Nagare pauses again to look at his clansmen. "Are you guys listening?"

"Sure we are, Nagare." Sukuna answers, staring at his handheld game system. He grins suddenly. "Yes! I leveled up!"

"I see. Congratulations, Sukuna." Nagare compliments then continues. "In any case, the Blue King has proven me wrong by lasting longer than I had anticipated. Most impressive. To make matters worse, the Silver King has returned, and a new Red King was born. Now, they have joined forces to guard Mihashira Tower and to counter against JUNGLE as a whole." Nagare pauses yet again. "Are you guys listening?"

"Sure we are, Nagare." Raiden replies, stuffing more cheesecake in his mouth. "This is the best cheesecake I've ever had…"

"I see. Enjoy it then, Raiden." Nagare says and continues once again, but this time carefully looking at everybody as he does. "So, then we are left with one other option to bring the Slates under our control… And, none of you are listening to me at all."

"Come on you three, pay attention." Iwafune waves his can of beer at everybody before opening it. "He may not look it, but he's still our King. Stop fooling around and show some respect."

"Seems to me you're the one with least respect, Mr. Iwa." Nagare stares at him.

"Don't get me wrong, Mr. Iwa." Yukari begins, wiping his face mask off and revealing beautiful and glowing skin. "I'm just fixing myself up for the coming battle. I want to make sure I look gorgeous and elegant as I walk through the battlefield. My heart is filled with excitement, and I'm ready to draw my beloved Ayamachi anytime."

"Yeah, same here." Sukuna smiles, sitting up and holding his game. "I'm playing games to keep myself busy. Otherwise, I can't stop myself from going out and wanting to fight. Seriously, I totally get what you are saying, Nagare."

"Exactly." Raiden swallows his cheesecake, grinning. "I'm eating this cheesecake to build up energy. Eating my favorite foods inspire me to go out and fight and carry out any mission as quickly as possible so I can get a second plate quickly."

"I see…" Nagare observes, believing them. "So you three are fully prepared. I am most impressed. Well then, after we take possession of the Slates, we'll lavish a Christmas party to celebrate."

"Chicken, chicken!" Kotosaka squawks happily, making Nagare look over. "Juicy and yummy!"

"Kotosaka, I expect you to do your fair share too." Nagare says.

"You see?" Sakuna smirks proudly. "We're all pumped up and ready to go."

"And you know me, I'll just be relaxing and drinking my beer." Iwafune smiles.

"Say, Nagare. Isn't it unusual for you to hold an official meeting like this before a job?" Yukari asks. "Could it be that you are starting to feel a little insecure? After all, you're taking on three Kings."

"As if. Right, Nagare?" Iwafune grins at the suggestion that Nagare would be a little worried.

"Well… I must admit, an alliance of the Silver, Red, and Blue Kings is formidable." Nagare concedes. "However… I have a plan and I am going to give you all specific rolls."

Raiden listens quietly and intently along with everyone else to Nagare's plan. Personally he thinks it is extremely well thought and put together. Raiden smirks to himself. His King, Nagare, is the most powerful. He cannot wait until JUNGLE gets their hands on the Slates.

"And Raiden," Nagare looks at the blonde. "I want you to deal with Akira. Exert all of your abilities against her and don't hold back, for she is a huge threat to us." Iwafune stops drinking his beer, listening carefully. "Earlier today, she has shown the ability to be able to freeze an attack as powerful as the Lightning Bolt Jutsu, but what also worries me is her ability to help the Blue King control his Aura."

"Don't worry about her. I got her." Raiden narrows his eyes in determination.

"How is she able to do that, Nagare?" Sukuna asks, face openly confused. "She's not a King."

"I have to say I'm curious too." Yukari admits, stretching his legs.

"I have a theory, that she might be meant to be the next Blue King." Nagare expresses his thoughts. "Either way… it doesn't matter. I have faith you will be able to remove her from our game."

Iwafune's eyes widen a bit. He hides it by bringing his beer to his lips. Being removed from their game means death.

"You can count on me, Nagare." Raiden smiles atrociously and looks at his spear. "I've been waiting to be assigned this."

"Oi, Nagare…" Iwafune speaks up, lowering his beer. "I don't have anything against your plan, but do you mind if I make a request?"


Things are going to start picking up even more!