A/N: Hello everyone. I AM SOOOO SORRRY. This chapter is over a month late. My life just got swamp with a million things. My job keeps adding more and more project for me to do because we're understaff and training people at the same time so I've bee stuck with working so many hours. I had felt under the weather a bit and just unable to get to my computer to work on this. Things have also been tense (i live in the US and we had a very historical election so it was a bit tense for a week, still sorta tense so my mind was on that. ) But to make up for this. I have added some more content to this Okumura arc finale to make it about roughtly 10k words gve or take. So I hope you all enjoy.
With the holidays coming I'll more off days so I'll try to use that to work on this, I have no idea how many chapters are left. We still got about two arcs to go but since this is a AU I can do whatever I want. But thank you thank your THANK YOU to everyone that has read my story so far, who has share feedback, the love is felt and I'm excited to see this story through to the end. I'm going to try to get a schedule date out that shouldn't this long again or make sure to provide a note.
As always love you all, enjoy the chapter, feel free to review, comment, or suggestion about shows, games etc. (Also there's a few easter eggs in here, can you find them?)
Present Day, 1885
An abandoned building was the first place to continue their "conversation." No one would be there to bother them for quite some time. The man in question was tied in a chair, a dirty rag stuffed in his mouth. The other man sitting across from him continues to twirl a pocket knife around his fingers. A red bandanna covered the lower half of his face.
A younger man also wearing a bandanna stood behind him impatiently tapping his foot.
"If I take that cloth out, will you promise not to scream this time and answer the question?"
The gaudy man muffled his answer, vehemently nodding his hand.
He pulls the rag out letting Sugimura breathe after a few minutes. His arms were tied with rope behind the chair, no way of escaping.
"I will ask you again, have you ever heard of a man called Mammon?"
"And I said no you dumb peasant!"
"Shame then. Your value continues to decrease, but maybe we can get some back. He is Okumura's future son-in-law. I'm sure he would be wanting you back," Ren had bluff. Who would want this guy for a son-in-law anyway?
"That old idiot doesn't know what he lost, I'm the son of a famous pol—" Ren stuff the rag back in not wanting to hear this spiel again. He motions to Morgana who stood behind the chair. Walking out of the hearing range but still far from Ryuji's lookout.
"Sounds like there was a fallen out, do you believe Mona?"
The younger brother pondered, "It didn't seem like he was lying there. But what would prompt him to end the engagement so abruptly… if it is true?"
"Maybe he'll say a bit more then, why don't we give him a little scare," The two chuckle at the plan. Sugimura was a pompous asshole who thought the world resolved around his 'prestigious' bloodline.
The two brothers walked back to Sugimura who was still fighting the cloth in his mouth.
"Well, it seems today is not your lucky day. If you can't be any use to us," Ren threaten the man aiming his revolver right at him, "then there's no need to keep evidence around." Cocking the hammer back, Sugimura panics some more.
"Mhhm…MMHH…MHHHHMMH!"
"You have something to say?"
He frantically nods, Ren tugs the rag out as planned.
"You want information, I have loads of information. Please don't kill me, I'm too handsome to die!"
"That's debatable, "Morgana mumbled under his breath.
"Okumura, what do you know?"
"Weird people show up at his mansion at lot, he tends to stay in his office and—"
"Something useful, or I'm changing my mind about wasting a bullet," Ren threaten again.
"Wait, wait! Night, sometimes he goes out on late-night carriage rides. Maybe he's heading to secret business meetings?"
"Are they random occurrence?"
"I….I don't know. Maybe? I've seen it head in the direction of the cemetery."
Ren stuck the gun right under his chin, glaring down the once gaudy man, "I need answers, not guesses. What do you know!"
"Joker, Joker! I think he's done. Besides he should be worried about getting new underclothes."
It seemed Ren's intimidation tactic worked to well as the son of a politician soiled his pants in fear.
"Blind wrap him, we'll drop him off someplace," The elder sibling ordered. He took another cloth piece trying it around Sugimura's eyes who was still whimpering.
"He's pathetic. Haru can do much better."
The night sky was illuminated with stars as no clouds were seen. Three men waited in the foliage, out of sight from the road.
Not many carriages came by if any this time of night.
"Why are we waiting out here again?" The blond Phantom Thief said.
"If what Sugimura said was true, which I believe cautiously, we may be able to confront Okumura tonight. They followed where the man claim Okumura likely travels before dumping him near the old Mill outside of town. Still in his soiled clothes.
"And what if he was lying out of his ass Ren and this is nothing but a trick?"
"We have our weapons, don't we Ryuji," Ren went back to his binoculars to see if anyone was coming down the road. Checking again 10 minutes later, was indeed a carriage over the hill coming from the cemetery.
"Morgana, take a look at this," passing the item over.
"...The bastard might've been right, but how do we know?"
"Maybe his carriage has some sort of ornery or carving symbol. Do you remember if Haru's carriage had any distinct features?"
"I don't know!? I wasn't…..exactly looking at the carriage," Ren shook his head, they may have skip plan B and go back to Plan A.
They were running out of time to decide as the carriage got closer. It began to pass them buy on the road with no distinguishing feature.
"Hey…hey, I recognize that guy," Ryuji whispered loudly.
"Which one?"
He points to the gunman next to the driver, "He was at the Gala, the one trying to make a pass at Ann."
"Gentlemen, have we come to a decision?" No longer needing to whisper as the carriage passed by their hiding spot. Both heads nodded in agreement, "Alright mask up."
Ren whistles for Arsene, as Ryuji and Morgana do the same chasing the suspected carriage down.
The gunman notices them behind in the road, he pulled out his shotgun trying to take out the outlaws.
Ren fires his own shot back near the driver, a warning shot. "STOP NOW!"
"Keep driving!" Te gunman warned back to his companion. He fired 2 shots at Ren and Ryuji before he was force to reload. The horses were frightened and drifted across the dirt road widely. Ren had to back off the chase as the last buckshot came close to Arsene. He signals to Morgana to veer off and ride ahead, hopefully cutting them off.
Mercurius was the fastest horse.
The other two Phantom Thieves had to buy time for Morgana. Purposely shooting wide but close enough, causing them duck.
Coming around a turn in the road, Morgana was head charging to the carriage. The Okumura's carriage was surrounded on both sides, all guns pointing at it. The gunman wasn't sure who to focus on, quickly reloading.
Switching targets, the hired gun decided to focus on the younger Amamiya brother head-on. But Morgana was just the distraction. Ren aims and fires a non-fatal shot at the gunman's shoulder, all while the carriage front right wheel runs over a rock, effectively knocking him off.
The driver was still terrified hoping to outrace the bandits in a hopeless attempt.
"STOP THE CARRIAGE NOW!" Ren yelled now beside the carriage. He held his revolver, aimed at the driver who eventually slowed down on the empty dark road.
"P.P...Please don't kill me," the man whimpered with his hands up.
"We're not here to kill you, we just want a word with your passenger. Don't try anything funny. Skull, keep an eye on him."
"Will do," Ryuji keeps his shotgun aimed at the driver, eyes on the hands.
Ren walked up to the door and grabbed the handle. He let out a breath he didn't realize he was holding. He could finally get his answers maybe even the location of Mr. Samuel itself once and for all.
Morgana nods beside him in position, Ren yanks open the door, gun at the ready, "You're times up Okumura! I have a question and—shit…."
Tonight was getting worse and worse with their luck. This was indeed Okumura's carriage and there was an Okumura in it. It wasn't the level headed businessman but his daughter, Haru Okumura. Huddle in a corner in fear as tears streak down her face and knuckles white from holding a broken iron bar.
Morgana looked inside to see why Ren pause, "Haru!?" The younger man inadvertently gave himself away.
As if a switch was flip, the young Okumura heiress realizes one of the bandits recognized her. The voice seemed familiar, it was hard to see his face this time of night as the mask blocked the lower half. The first man seemed oddly familiar as well.
"I'm s-sorry….have we met before?" She hesitantly asked them, "Whatever my father did, I'll apologize in his stead, I have a little bit of money—"
"We're not here for your money, we didn't think it was uh..well."
"Mona stop talking!"
"...Mona? Morgana is that you?"
"I….uh…." He wasn't sure what to do, he looked to Ren for instructions.
Ren heaved a heavy signed rubbing his face. He takes his bandanna off showing his full face.
Haru gasp in surprise just as Morgana followed.
"I guess we have some explaining to do."
Elsewhere….
The two Phantom Thieves on a mission began to get ready for their day, Yusuke kicking dirt on their campfire from the previous night.
Ann looked at the hand-drawn map Ren gave them to see they were getting close. Getting to her feet, she wipes the dirt off her only pair of pants and hopped on her mare.
"Ready when you are Yusuke."
Clicking his tongue, Goemon started in a trot heading towards the main road.
The trading post was a high traffic area, merchants and carriage littered any open space. A train track cut through the middle cluster of shops.
"We should start asking around, but where would a man hiding from Okumura be?" Yusuke wondered.
"Let's check for any taverns or bars, they tend to be rumor mills."
There was a Tavern at the end of the dirt road, a few horses tied up already. Tying their horses to the pole, Yusuke and Ann wander in together. A receptacle on the side greeted them.
"Mornin strangers, I'm afraid you'll have to surrender any weapons on your person while you're here. You'll get them on your way out, house rules."
"Okay then," Yusuke handed over his 6 throwing knives on his belt along with a tiny pistol concealed on his back.
Ann handed over her gun and raised her lasso she keeps at her side, "Does this count?"
"That counts too Miss," she hands it over with a pout, "Thank you very much, enjoy your stay."
"Actually, we have a question if you may? Do you know anyone named Shinsuke Kishi?
"Mmm, don't think anyone with that name rings a bell, Ma'am. Maybe ask around the other patrons?"
They calmly asked if anyone had seen Kishi, some grunted out no while others didn't want to be bothered.
Yusuke's stomach growled as they sat outside the steps of the Tavern. No luck so far in finding their target, "It seems that excursion was a bust, though I wish we had enough food for some lunch."
Ann's stomach had followed soon, all she had was a can of fruits she split with Yusuke earlier and whatever they ate the previous day.
"I got about 55 cents, maybe we could get some apples around here?"
"It would be better than nothing I suppose."
There was a small grocery store that had fresh fruit, as fresh a week old apple can be. When purchasing the items Ann had to ask the cashier the same questions they've asked everyone else.
"Shinsuke Kishi eh?" He scratched his head, "A man came by maybe a week ago asking the same thing…"
"What did he look like?" Yusuke urged.
"Uh well, it was kinda hard to see him, shrouded by the face, black cloak, I think he had some burn marks on his hand."
"Burn marks?"
"Yeah, the guy had the presence like a bounty hunter. If this Shinsuke Kishi got a price on his head, he ain't breathing. Wouldn't hurt checking the graveyard up the hill"
"I see, well thank you for your time Sir," Ann and Yusuke left the store biting into their purchased apples.
"Do you think we're too late Yusuke?"
"We best hope our target has safely moved on to another location and did not meet a grizzly fate. However, my gut tells me we should check the graves."
The graves were on the outskirt of the trading post up the hill. A steep hike it was to check the resting place of others.
"We should split up and check. I'll take the left side, you take the right," the artist said. Some of the graves had the grass grow over, some from different points in time.
It was disheartening to Ann to find grave markers with the shortest years. She circled around the outside of the grace when an unmarked patch of fresh dirt caught her eye.
"Yusuke! Yusuke over here." The pile of dirt was the length of a person's body away from the others.
"What is it, Ann?" Yusuke rushed over.
She points to her discovery, "Do you think this might be him in there?"
"We don't have a photograph to go off of. This could be anyone."
"You're right."
".….There is one way we can check but…"
Ann knew where his thought process was going, "WE ARE NOT DIGGING UP A BODY!"
"What else do you suppose we do, we are out of leads."
"...….."
An hour had passed by as they continue the dreadful task, "I'm so sorry, sorry, sorry," The two dug up the top layer of dirt and was getting closer to where a body would be.
"Ugh, this is so gross. I feel all sweaty and covered in dirt."
"We're almost done Ann, keep digging. The least we can do is make a proper marker once we're done."
The appearance of a suit covered in dirt was found, a dead man wearing it. Yusuke gently brushed off as best as he could without disturbing the body.
"It appears he's wearing well-made clothing, a sign of money perhaps?"
"Um…Yusuke….I think I know what killed him." She points to her side of the body. Peaking over he sees a bullet wound etched in his head.
"That's not a wound obtain in a duel, this man was clearly murdered." The bullet hit the back of his head, dirt and dried blood stained his hair.
Ann tries to hold down her food as she observed the body. The smell alone makes her gag. Something in the man's hand catches her eye, "Hey what is this?"
He held onto a card partially covered in bloodstains. One side of the card was empty, the other side had an image of a lion.
"A lion? What could this mean?" Yusuke couldn't come up with an answer, "It's best we go back and deliberate with the others."
"Okay."
Carefully placing the dirt back over, the two found some discarded wood tying it into a grave marker for the unknown man.
"Whether that was Kishi or not, may his soul find peace," Yusuke offered small words. Ann had added some flowers to the grave from nearby.
"Come out Yusuke, let's go back."
Yoshizawa Estate
".…We were running away from the Deputies when Morgana and I fell into a river. When we woke up Boss, our guardian was mending us back to health. After that, some bounty hunters came after me in the name of their employer to finish the job, but they were dealt with. I started training under Boss for a bit, until I felt comfortable on my own. Since then I've been chasing that man down, with a few setbacks."
Ren, Morgana, and Haru were sitting at the dining table, cups of tea in their hands as Ren explained how they got there.
"Oh my goodness, you must've had a really rough time all these years…..and you believe my Father is associated with this man?"
"Unfortunately, yes. They go by secret names and the one connected to Okumura was mention by other higher associates. Your Father is in a very high close circle to the man I need to find."
"Um, do you intend to…..harm my Father?"
"We have no intention of doing that Haru," Morgana spoke up, "We just need names, places he would surely have."
"Perhaps I could talk to him—"
"No, it's too dangerous, it would be best if you stayed here actually. We would need to meet your Father face to face and well things could get ugly fast. We don't want you to get hurt, Miss Haru."
"I see. Is there any other way I could possibly help?"
Ren taps the table in thought, "Is he planning to leave town anytime soon?"
"Not that I know of."
"Okay. When he does have to travel outside of town, do you know if he takes the normal train at the station or a personal car?"
"We do own a personal rail car that is stationed in the train yard….but it's, sadly we don't use it like we did when I was younger." She reminisces of the summer breeze through her hair whenever she pokes her head out the window, "It should still be there hopefully."
"Is that train yard near the one at the edge of town North of here?" Morgana asked.
"I'll have to check the map again. But we have some more questions, Miss Haru. What were you doing out there so late at night?"
She wraps her hands around her teacup holding onto the fading warmth it provided, "I was visiting my mother's grave."
"Why not during the day?"
"I can't really go out much during the day, to many people Father said. But the quietness at night allows me to talk to her without being interrupted."
"I see." Ren and Morgana knew what its like losing a mother. "It's getting quite late, we should get some sleep. Morgana, can you please show Miss Haru to Shiho's room for the night."
"Sure."
"While Miss Kasumi has already retired for the night, I hope you enjoy your stay with us and I apologize for scaring you tonight."
"I am thankful it was you two instead, you're not as scaring as they say in the papers."
"We're not typical outlaws Miss Haru, we want to help those who have been wronged."
"We're Phantom Thieves Haru, honored gentlemen who help any damsel."
The Okumura heiress chuckles, "Well this damsel appreciate your efforts."
The younger Amamiya brother guides her to her room. Ren was feeling exhausted, back to back late nights, his sleep was long overdue. Making the trek up the stairs, he was surprised to see someone waiting by his and Morgana's door.
"Makoto? What are you still doing up?"
"You're back!?" She seems surprised to see him.
"Yeah… it's been a long night. How has packing been going?"
"We're almost done, just miscellaneous stuff. But how are you, you look stress."
"We received a tip of a possible location for Okumura. Turned out it was his daughter. She's sharing Shiho's room for tonight." The elder brother ungracefully leaned on the wall, trying to keep himself standing.
"We messed up badly, that driver is going to report to Okumura that we took his daughter." They were all to stun to bother chasing him down when he ran for it.
"That does sound bad," following his example she leans back on the wall, "But we come too far only to be discouraged."
"I'm not discouraged, I'm tired," He said.
Ren closed his eyes, mentally drained for the day especially after having to tell Haru about their past.
Shuffling and warmth surprised him, looking down Makoto had given him a hug.
"My father use to say hugs help during times like these." Her face turns a rosy color near her cheeks. Maybe her father had a point as he returns the embrace.
"Thank you, Makoto." Her hand rubbing his back was soothing, almost lulling him to sleep. Her head came up to his chin allowing him to rest on it. He noted she must've taken an evening bath as her scent was intoxicating. The smell had always brought in a sense of relaxation, but lately, it reminded him of other things on his mind and —oh his heart did that thing again.
"I'll always be here for you Ren. Remember you're not alone in this," Separating but still at arm's length, the two were matching smiles.
"I do feel a bit better after that," he said returning to a neutral face once more, "But now that we lost the element of surprise, when we confront Okumura I want you to stay cl—I want you to be careful. Okay?"
"...Okay."
"Hey, Ren! Haru is all tuck…..uh did I interrupt something?"
Realizing they were still holding each other arms, the two immediately dropped their embrace.
"I was wishing Ren a good night actually…goodnight you two." She quickly walked down the hallway to her room.
The brothers walked into their room closing the door behind them and started their nightly rituals.
"Hmmm," Mona thought out loud.
"What is it, Morgana?"
"I like Makoto, she seems nicer these past few months."
"Because she's gotten to know us. Her being smart has helped the group as well. Her combat skills have gotten better and her nerves have calmed down. Probably why she doesn't push her hair behind her ear that much anymore and…."
Ren stopped himself, seeing what he was doing. Morgana sat on the bed, legs cross and face in hand smirking ear to ear.
Sighing, "Go to BED!" Ren said hurling a pillow at his younger brother.
A Few Days Later, 1885
Akechi kept a close on his watch. They had to depart on time. The gray hair prosecutor had checked the last of her things before queuing into her own train. She was heading back to HQ against all warnings the Detective could provide her.
"She's going to get herself killed." He couldn't dwell on it for too long. As promised to Mr. Okumura, he would deliver the "goods" in exchange for the names of the top leaders in this circle.
He even offered his personal train car along with the assigned conductor and help. No doubt paid to stay quiet, "Okumura better keep his end of the bargain."
Peaking into the engine room, he sees the man shoveling coal into the fire, "Are we all set up to leave soon Conductor?"
"In a minute boy, I wanna make sure this fire is nice and hot. This girl gotta drag extra cars behind it."
"Right, carry on." Akechi walked back to the first car that held luxury seating. No one else was here besides the conductor and 3 extra hands of help to load and unload. Seems the old man wanted the less to know the better.
The train was ready to depart 40 minutes later, only 5 minutes behind schedule. Hopefully, everything will be a smooth ride leaving Breaux.
Detective Akechi had kept a sidearm with him just in case, they shouldn't be encountering any outlaws but caution is necessary. He decides to get up to check the other cars. The cargo boxes lied in them, what is Okumura delivering? He wasn't able to peak a few years ago but he's older now, with fewer eyes around him. But whoever is receiving these boxes would know they were tampered with.
"They'll be going to jail soon enough," the Detective said out loud. Grabbing a crowbar station on one box, he pries open the first box to view the content. A dark powdery substance met him. Pinching a little he brings it to his nose, "Smells like gunpowder," Opening another box he found more gunpowder. The next three all had gunpowder in them.
"There's enough gunpowder in here to blow up Headquarters if he wanted." Starting to get concerned, Akechi opens up another crate. In this container was the last thing he wanted to see, a pack of dynamite connected to a ticking clock with 30 minutes remaining on it.
"I need to stop this train!" The Detective rushes to the engine car to alert the conductor of his discoveries.
"Hey! You need to stop this train!" Reaching the door separating the two cars, he swings it open, "Hey we've—" he tried to say only to be met with the butt of a rifle to his face, dropping him like a rag doll.
"Put him in the sitting area, we'll disconnect the car on mile marker 331," the conductor order them. The other men dragged the unconscious body of Akechi to its destination….
Yoshizawa Estate, Present Day earlier…
The guest house was bursting with activity that morning, everything had been moved out and pack in their wagons. The gang eats a quick breakfast, packing the rest for the trip on the road.
"Ryuji hurry up, we need to keep on schedule! Boss, is everyone packed?"
"We're all good to go kid. You sure the others will make it in time?"
"Miss Yoshizawa will point them in the right direction. They have back up coordinates," Ren said. He was all over the house making sure the plan was in place. Ryuji, Morgana, and Makoto were striking Okumura's mansion today. His daughter hidden under the watchful eye of Boss.
"Ammo check," addressing the 3 people mention.
"I'm all good to go," Ryuji mentions walking in, "Has Ann and Yusuke returned yet?"
Ren shakes his head at the blonde gunslinger, "Not for another day."
"Damn."
"I know you're worried but we need to stay focus. We'll ride out ahead, Boss and Doc will deport an hour later. Are we clear?" Three heads nodded back at him, "Okay, head to the stables, I'll be there in a moment."
The elder Amamiya brother knew where she would be after breakfast. She already said her farewells to the group as a courtesy. He finds her looking out the stairwell window.
"We're leaving Kasumi, I…I want to thank you for letting us stay here this whole time. It's appreciated by all of us."
She was still looking out the window, unable to look directly at him, "Will you ever come back?"
"Afraid not. This is goodbye for good. Whether I live long to see through my plans has yet to be seen. But I won't forget what we almost had. Those memories will remain where they belong, in the past."
".….Just like before, I can't change your mind can I?"
"No. You're free to live your life without trying to wait for me. Find a clean nose young man, get married, have children, whatever you want. I just won't be the one waiting at the end of the aisle."
Closing her eyes, Kasumi let out a deep sigh, that man never changes. Walking up to him, she offers a kiss on his cheek just shy of the corner of his lips, "….Goodbye Ren."
With that said, he left Yoshizawa estate for good.
Hopping on Arsene, he took a moment to gather himself before catching up with the others.
"I thought you said we were on a strict schedule Ren," Ryuji complained.
"We are, come on we need to ride hard to get to Okumura." He yips Arsene to move faster down the dirt road.
"The four of us will fit the front hard, his office is located on the 3rd floor so our first priority is reaching the stairs. It will be a handful of guards hanging around that floor exclusively." Re had to yell over the wind in their ear, "Morgana and I will take point, Ryuji and Makoto you two will back us up. But stay close, we don't want them to split us up in the mansion.
The four continue to ride coming up to the city, but before they can enter, they had to wait at a railroad cross just outside. One train was currently departing, gaining steam down the track.
"Uh, Ren…..that's the train yard Haru mention over there right?"
Looking to where the train was coming from was indeed the description the heiress provided, "Dammit, you're right, check to see if there is anything else in there."
"On it!" Morgana road Mercurious past the station to the train yard further down. He looked for a rail car that would be fancy or still idle. Nothing but an old merchant train in need of repair was left. Racing back to the others, they were still steadying their mares on the south side of the track.
"Any luck?"
"It's not there Ren, what if that is Okumura's train? What then?
"Ren it could also be a diversion. We should split up, cover all out routes," Makoto spoke up. She brought up an excellent point.
"I don't like this one bit, but we have little choice in the matter. Morgana!"
"Yes!?"
"Head to the mansion, keep yourself hidden. If you see Okumura take one step out of the door, tail him, Makoto, Ryuji! Let's go, we've got a train to catch."
Parting ways the three older Thieves followed the track with Morgana following the road.
"I have to say this is much more exciting than our original plan. Come on Kidd HYAH!"
The train was about 3 miles ahead of them already. It would take some time to catch. There was land on both sides of the track to ride on but that road was going to narrow. They had to get on before they reach the bridge.
"Come on Arsene, faster," He was pushing the mare as fast as it could go, Makoto and Anat closely behind as Ryuji and Kidd trailed a few feet. The horseshoes kicking up the grass beneath them.
"I can hear the train, we're closing in!"
There was a curve up ahead that would cause the train to slow down, avoiding potential derailment. But they're on horse they don't have to slow down. Coming around the bend, they could see the rear car half a mile away now.
"You two go ahead, I'll trail behind," Ryuji told them while riding the slowest of the three. They still should have a few miles to work with before that narrow bridge.
The heavy breathing of Arsene could be heard as he was reaching his limit, heart-pounding, nostrils fighting for each breath, "Almost there boy, I….just ..need to reach."
Catching up to the rear car, Ren rode along the side of the back railing, his outstretched arms and unsteady pacing of his horse kept him out of reach. This plan wasn't working. Carefully hopping up the saddle, reins in hand, and his balance as steady as he could, he waited for Arsene to drift close but not to close before making the leap onto the platform.
"I'm on!" Arsene without his rider slows down and veers off, Makoto took this opportunity to to race to the rear car.
"Makoto, here grab my hand!" Ren reached over, grabbing her arm and lifting her from the horse. He pulls her onto the train as Anat veered off as well.
The two unholster their revolvers before quietly making their way in. The lat car was mostly empty, save for a few crumbs. The next room was the same result with a few crates.
"Everything is empty so far, where are they?" the young woman question.
"Shh, stay quiet, we don't wanna alert them."
Ren tried to open up the railcar door as quietly as possible, revolver pointed out first, checking his left, checking his right, there was nobody. But there was plenty of open cargo and a hinged door leading to the next car. Examining the content, they were quick to find most was gunpowder fill to the brim.
"Seems like someone wants to blow Okumura sky high."
"Ren," Makoto whispers, "Look." He walks up behind her to see her concern. It was a big concern indeed.
"That has to be about ten sticks of dynamite wrapped up. It's not much normally but with all this gunpowder around…whatever we need to do, we gotta do it fast. There are about 18 minutes before the next hour if that's when it's planned to go off. Come on, we need to keep moving."
Peaking in the unhinged door, Ren found where the people were at. Three men stood around the seating area with a fourth slumped in a chair….wait he seen that mop of hair before. Was that the Detective? Then were was Okumura? Either way, they needed to stop these men and get off the train.
It seems the guards chattering didn't even look in their direction. Ren and Makoto could crawl throw the hinged door finding cover behind the benches.
"Hey was that old man telling the truth about paying us double?" The first guard said.
"He doesn't pay his employees anything most times, why should we not trust him for this?"
"Hush money pays more. Besides getting that hardnose Detective out of the street would be a plus for us all."
The three continued chatting as he signals to Makoto to get ready. He always carried his handkerchief under his shirt, pulling it up when need be. Ready to go with the clock still ticking, he reveals himself above the sits, gun aimed at the surprised guards.
"Hands where I can see them."
"What the hell! How'd you get aboard!?"
"I have my ways. Now, where's Okumura!"
"He ain't here and neither should you be," The second guard reached for his gun and fired. This was a precarious situation, he didn't want any stray shots to hit Akecho who was still unconscious and tied up.
Ren took his place hiding behind the benches on one aisle, Makoto, still undiscovered was hiding behind the benches on the other aisle.
Amamiya returned fire to the first man, just grazing his arm before ducking. The other two were also all firing chipping off pieces of fine wood.
Makoto made a motion dipping underneath to crawl. If she could get to Akechi, that may even the odds.
Ren noticing this offered covered. He shoots at the 3rd guard this time, the bullet ripping through his thigh.
"AUGH!" Dropping the gun he falls as he clutches his leg.
Makoto was still un-noticed until the guard with the injured leg spotted her on the ground.
"TWO! ACK there's two of them!"
"Oh no," Makoto quickly draws her gun and shoots his hand that was reaching for the fallen gun. Now bleeding from the leg and hand, the 3rd guard was incapacitated in pain. Makoto moved vertically to hide behind the train benches making further progress than Ren.
The man in question was pinned down by the remaining two, this was taking to long, they need to move forward. Inching up between benches each pause of gunfire.
The loud noises and gunfire stirred the unconscious Detective awake, suffering from a massive headache and bruised face.
".…ugh," Feeling his arm tied he tried to get a sense of surrounding The noises were coming from behind him as he tried to wiggle out of his predicament. He did keep a pocket knife hidden on an anklet, but could not get to it with his hand tied behind his back.
"Twisting his head, he sees the two "helpers" were shooting at a pair of intruders…..or would-be intruders. Akechi should've known Amamiya wouldn't stop snooping and….Makoto was there as well. He needs to act fast as someone will get hurt.
As luck would have it, his legs were never tied up, a stupid move on their part. Getting his barrens, he slowly gets up carefully avoiding stray bullets
The thieves were still pinned as the 1st guard attempts to reload. Now was Akechi's chance barreling forward, he throws his body into the man knocking him down. The 2nd guard, surprised by the action failed to notice Ren popping up from his cover, and aimed straight at his chest.
One was officially down, the third guard withered on the ground bleeding out. All that was left was the one knocked down, the 1st guard tried to reach for his weapon only to have his head locked up by Akechi's legs.
The Detective tightens them as hard as he could, having the man go redder and redder. Struggling to get the Ace Detective off him, his struggles slowly died down as the final guard passed out. Letting go in relief, Akechi huffed a sigh of frustration as he struggled to get up.
"Hang on, give me a moment," Ren pulled out his hunting knife cutting the ropes for Akechi.
"Thanks," he rubs his wrist which is a little sore from rope burn, "We need to get off this train now, there's a bomb."
"We're aware, we can try to slow it down, jumping off from this speed could kill us," Makoto suggested.
Trying to rub the pain in his head away, the Detective shakes his head, "No, he's one of them, I was surprised my first time. Of course, Okumura would find a way to keep his secrets. How could I have been so STUPID!"
"We'll handle Okumura later, we gotta find a way to get off this train. Makoto checks the clock, Detective," Ren address as he cocks back the hammer of his gun, "I believe we need a word with our conductor."
"Indeed."
Playing it smart, they stood back on either side of the door collecting their nerves. The elder Amamiya kicks the door open, only to find the engine railcar had been detached from the lead engine car. The distance was gaining between the separate rail cars. Akechi thought about making a leap but he may not make it.
The conductor stood on the edge of the engine car grinning cockily, waving his hat in goodbye.
"Oh Detective, Mr. Okumura gives his regards…..Enjoy the rest of your ride," He continued to laugh as his car continues to pick up speed.
"We're slowing down but not fast enough!" Ren yelled over the wind, "Makoto!" yelling back into the train, "How much time!"
"Uhh… maybe about 4 minutes. Now for 3 minutes!"
"Dammit!" The Phantom Thief leader yelled.
"Calm down, we need to think….and fast."
"We're still too fast to hop off, there's also rocks everywhere near the track. It would put us in more danger."
"Agreed," The clock was ticking on them. The track continues to narrow as a bridge came in sight.
"The bridge! It's above the river, we can jump there."
"Guys TWO MINUTES!" She yells back at them.
"A river yes Amamiya, but a rapid river at that. We'll be lucky to survive the fall and rocks."
"What other choice do we have?" They had to decide quickly as the bridge was right in front of them. It wasn't too long in length but it was now or never. The faint outline of the engine car could still be seen across.
"The river it is then. Let the water carry you to lesser waters and you'll make it through," Akechi says climbing the railing preparing to jump.
"Makoto! Let's go! With about a minute left, Akechi took the leap over the bridge. Securing their weapons, Makoto and Ren followed right after. The wind rushing into their ears as they fall to the rushing river below. The impact of the water hitting his boots stung as the water came flooding to his face. He didn't fight the raging water so much as to keep his head above water and let himself be drifted.
A large boom was heard as the train exploded towards the end of the bridge, debris fell into the water. A large tower of flame caught on the bridge with smoke rising high.
"Ren!" he heard Makoto yell. She was a little further away struggling to stay up.
"Hang on!" Swimming over to her, he let the water push him closer, pushed under a few times during his attempt, he kicks up above to keep breathing. He had to be careful of the small rocks that were springing up. Bumping against a few, he could feel scrapes on his shoulder.
He was almost in reach of her as the water got worse to the point he had trouble keeping himself afloat.
"Almost there…." Makoto attempts to turn herself around to reach Ren when she suddenly smacked her head into the rushing rock.
"MAKOTO!" Diving for her body that was rapidly sinking, he stretches against the wave and his own fatigue, he was able to grab her arm and haul her in.
Spots of red smeared the water near them as they floated to calmer waters. No longer fighting the rapids, Ren swims with his left arm as he keeps a tight hold on the young woman.
The rushing water and large rocks leveled out to calmer streams and pebbles. A shoreline was in site, the same shoreline he could see Akechi crawling to as he coughed up water.
Keeping a tight hold on his fellow thief, Ren swam to land after their futile effort to catch Okumura. Laying her gently on the ground he takes off his black duster coat and places it upon her trying to keep her warm as much as possible.
The red he saw in the water was from a nasty gash on her forehead. Blood seeping down the side of her face and neck. Taking his wet handkerchief, he wrings it out before applying pressure to her wound.
He could hear Akechi coughing to his side as the detective also faced struggles getting through the river.
"How bad is it?" he asked. This wasn't what he wanted to happen. This day was going to shit.
"She has a nasty cut on her head. It….its bleeding badly." Ren was worried. She needed medical attention and fast.
".…Ug…ugh"
"Makoto! Makoto can you hear me?!" But the young women faded back into unconsciousness. The blood was seeping through the cloth slowly but slowing down.
"We need to start moving Amamiya." Akechi, getting to his feet walked further away from the stream.
Ren knew they had to get back to town, or to people nearby. Gently placing his arms under her knees and shoulders, he lifted Makoto into his arms and followed Akechi.
Walking a way, they heard the sound of hooves fast-approaching. If it was more of Okumura's men, they had little way to defend themselves. Akechi's gun was still wet, while Ren's arm was preoccupied.
"Ren! Makoto!" A familiar voice shouted through the trees.
"Ryuji? Ryuji! We're over here!" He shouted back. The blonde gunslinger rode into view, Arsene and Anat reins in his hand as he guided Kidd closer to the trio.
Ryuji gave a wary look to the Detective as he hopped off his horse. But his concern switches to the women in his friend's arm.
"What happened?"
Ren gently lays her back down, ripping off his sleeve and tying it around Makoto's head, cover the bloody handkerchief.
"She hit her head in the water on some rocks….I need you to take her to Dr. Takemi right away. The caravan should already be on the road."
"What're you gonna do?"
"Detective Akechi and I have some unfinished business with Okumura."
"Give that bastard hell then," Ryuji took Makoto sitting her on the horse before placing himself behind her.
"Get her to Takemi safely….place." Nodding, he signals Kidd to move, going in the direction of the caravan.
Ren grabbed Arsene's reins and climbed on while Akechi had to use Anat for travel. The mare only fussed a little before staying steady.
"Let's go."
Riding as fast as they could they made it back to town to confront the man name, Okumura.
"We should head to the mansion first, my brother will be there to back us up," Ren yelled over to the Detective.
"What about his daughter!?"
"Don't worry," Ren said mid-sentence before dodging on-coming carriages. "She's somewhere safe."
The traffic started to pick up as they got closer to the middle of the city. Riding at full speed had caused some near accidents and curses in their direction.
"We're almost there," Akechi could see the mansion in his sights, but it sounded too quiet.
Slowing down Arsene, Ren jump down and rush through the gates, Morgana should've been hiding somewhere. The guards were not out patrolling and the general activity was quiet. Some workers looked up to the surprised guest but immediately went back to tending the garden and minding their own business.
"You, where are the guards!?" Ren pointed out to someone.
"Uhhh."
"Answer the man, or I'll make you," Akechi threaten to back him up.
"They left!" a smaller gardener said.
"Left where?" Ren needed to keep his attitude in check. He could feel his anger rising.
"With Mr. Okumura, he is having a speech this afternoon in the park."
Akechi backed off with that answer and return to the horse, "Follow me Amamiya."
"Where are we going?"
"If he's giving a speech, I have an idea at which park he will be addressing it at. Would your brother be there?"
"He should be I told him to tail Okumura if he leaves."
"Then I hope my hunch is right," Clicking Makoto's horse into motion they rode towards their destination.
"Did he tell you about this speech?"
"No," The two had to do their best-avoiding pedestrian traffic, "He wanted me to oversee a 'business transaction'. Goods was supposed to be delivered. If I completed this delivery, I would be informed about his conspirators as long as we didn't convict him."
"A plea deal, sell out his friends only for him to come out on top," the elder Amimiya brother understands, "And you were going to be okay with that?"
"Not really, I would've found a way to take him down. I always get me targets."
"Well let's not miss this one."
"The crowds are getting heavy ahead, we should stash the horses. Don't want to alert him just yet."
Nodding along, they tied up the horses right outside the park. A crowd gathers on the grass as a stage was set up, a podium in the middle. But no Okumura.
"Where is Okumura?" Ren had thought out loud.
"I can tell you brother," The two turned around finding Morgana in the crowd, "What happened to you? You look wet, and…..why are YOU here?" Addressing the Detective.
"It's a long story, Morgana, now where is he?" Pointing to the stage he signals the other two to follow him through the mass of people.
"I had waited outside the mansion for some time before he got into a carriage. He stopped at the tailor's for a moment, then the barber, before coming here. He hasn't spoken yet just guest. He should still be behind the stage."
Ren pats Morgana on the shoulder, "Excellent work as always."
Getting out of the crowd was the easy part for them, with Akechi's face bruised up currently, many didn't recognize the Ace Detective at first glance. Going behind the stand, they found a group of Okumura's bodyguards surrounding the man while he read over some papers.
"Kunikazu Okumura!" Goro Akechi yelled in anger at the Tycoon. If the businessman was surprised, he didn't show it.
Passing the papers to an assistant, he addresses the two men, "Ace Detective Goto Akechi, I'm a little surprised to see you amongst the living. Almost didn't recognize you."
"You can thank your lousy conductor."
Turning to ren this time, Okumura looked him up and down, "You, I've seen you on Wanted signs. How scandalous Detective, working with a known criminal and you haven't turned him.
"Mr. Samuel where can I find him," Ren asked cutting to the chase. Okumura huffed at the questioning.
"You'll only find him when he wants to be found."
"So I've been told," He couldn't draw his weapon to threaten the man as there were many eyes upon them, but he did have a bluff up his sleeve, " You're a businessman, you like making deals. You tell me where Samuel is right now, and I'll make sure your daughter is returned safe and sound."
"So YOU'RE the one who took her," anger rising in his voice.
"Do we have a deal, Mr. Okumura," Ren stressed out.
"Cause if not, I will charge you with attempted murder of an SIU agent," Akechi added. Ren had glance at Akechi appreciating the help to get this matter resolved.
The business tycoon was tight-lipped, weighing his options. His assistant ran up to him interrupting his thoughts.
"Mr. Okumura, Sir, you're due on stage in 30 seconds."
Straightening his tie, he looks at the two again, "We'll discuss this after." He makes his way to the stage to the applause of the locals and reporters.
Akechi and Ren were forced to wait on the side for this speech to be done under the watchful eye of the guards.
"Think he'll take the deal," Ren wondered.
"From what I know from living in their house, he can be stingy but I do believe he does care about Miss Okumura."
".…And so as we transition into these new times, our spirit has never once waiver. Our frontiers are becoming peaceful as the old way dies out, this is no longer a land for ruffians and outlaws. We are a refined people and just like I have lead my company into the greatest organization, I would like to lead you all as a people. With that said, I would like to officially announce my candidacy." The applause of the crowd was loud as Okumura decided to into politics officially.
Settling down the crowd, he continued, "I already believe my path is clear, while talk of other candidates has begun, I don't believe they will get far. You all may have heard of the current leading candidate, but not all is as it seems." The older man paused as the crowd murmured between themselves. Okumura is going to get what he wants even if he has to put others beneath him as well to forge his path.
"There are many rumors that are said about people some true some that are not, mudslinging between the debates. There is one thing that you all may not be aware of about him. And that is—that…. …..is."
Okumura could not finish his sentence as he slumps backward, all chaos breaks loose. Before his stuttered statement a shot and whiz of the bullet could be heard hitting directly to his chest by a sniper.
Akechi immediately went into action running towards the down man while Ren tried to pinpoint where the shot came from. From the angle of the impact it couldn't have been anyone in the crowd, maybe someone in the nearby buildings. But what building had the angle.
"Brother look there!" Morgana shouted pointing to one of the housing building across the park, a figure shrouded in a black hooded cloak was fleeing the scene, "I'll go after him."
"Be careful," Ren said turning his attention to the bleeding Okumura.
Akechi was putting pressure on the wound as best as he could, but blood continues to pour on the stage.
"Y..you..u."
"Slow down, what are you trying to say."
"Da-mn you S..ssh." he was having a hard time breathing as the blood lost continue to flow.
"Okumura please, where can I find him?"
"Crest…..lions….crest, but." Okumura starts to cough up blood as he struggles to speak.
"My daughter…..my fluer….m….make… ure she's s..safe."
"We promise…." With an assurance from the Phantom Thief leader, the great business Tycoon Kunikazu Okumura closed his eyes one last time.
A/N Okumura has sadly died, murdered in cold blood. The "Dark mask" is here, and has been here for awhile. But its a dark cloak instead. Also I do not recommend digging up the dead, highly unwise. This is most likely the last we seen of Kasumi, I think my take on her, I try to be between the game and my own impressions. Writing Akechi is so fun. He's sorta fed up, he's tired and he wants to find the truth. What will happen to Makoto, how does Ren feel, found out on the next chapter...
As always feel free to reveiw, comment or suggestion