Hey guys, I'm finally back to update this fic. Like usual I will try to post at least three chapters for this fic before I move on to work on my Pokemon story. Thank you all for your continued support and patience, and for not spamming me to update this fic. This chapter will pick up right where the previous one left off, and will have Tatsumi finally try to convince Esdeath the leave the empire and join the revolutionary army's side. Well that's all I wanted to say, so let's get to the fic.
P.S. If you haven't seen Spider-man Homecoming yet, I highly recommend you do, in IMAX or 3D if you can. I just saw it the other day and it's hands down my new favorite Spider-man movie. They absolutely nail Peter Parker in this movie and I loved see him growing into his role as Spider-man. I knew Tom Holland was gonna be great as Spider-man after his short appearance in Captain America: Civil War, but he absolutely kills it in this film, and he's definitely my favorite version of Peter Parker/Spider-man. So if you love Spider-man, super hero movies, or just good movies in general, I can't recommend this movie highly enough.
P.P.S All of Esdeath's attacks are simple German to English translations. So if you want to know what the attack's name are in English just plug them into google translate.
"Speech"
"Thoughts"
Teigu
Disclaimer: I don't own Akame ga Kill, or any of its characters.
"Hmm, there's nothing up here either." Tatsumi muttered, scanning the entire summit of the mountain. "Not a sign of life in this whole place." With a brief cloud of smoke Incursio disappeared, and Tatsumi hopped of the large rock he hand been standing on. "Maybe they're all asleep or something." Releasing a light sigh, Tatsumi stared up at the full Moon overhead. "I wonder how everyone else is doing...I hope they're all okay." As Tatsumi stared up at the shining Moon, he failed to notice the large danger beast silently soaring through the night sky, and the dangerous woman riding atop it.
"I know I'm supposed to be out patrolling..." Esdeath said, as she stared brilliant Moon that filled the sky before her. "But the Moon's light is so lovely, I thought it'd be nice to take the scenic route...even I have to admit it's not very like me to do something like this..." Closing her eyes, an image of Tatsumi's bright smiling face appeared in Esdeath's mind. "It's all your fault...I'm acting so weird because of you, Tatsumi. So many strange thoughts are floating around in my mind." Opening her eyes, Esdeath glanced down at the mountains below her, and something happened to catch her eye. "A silhouette? Is it perhaps a danger beast?" A devilish smirk spread across Esdeath's face, as she unsheathed her rapier. "Heh, in that case...it's quite unlucky." Without a moment's hesitation, Esdeath dove off her mount and plummeted towards the silhouette. "He caught me when I'm in a bad mood."
"Why do I get the feeling that something very dangerous is flying towards me?" Tatsumi said to himself, mere seconds before something crashed into the ground behind him. The young assassin quickly raised his arms to shield his eyes from flying dust and debris. "W-What the hell?!" As the dust started to settle, Tatsumi began to make out a human-like figure.
"You will face me..." When the debris fully Tatsumi's eyes widened when he saw that the mysterious figure was actually Esdeath, pointing her sword at him. "And I'll test out some new torture techniques on-" Esdeath stopped dead in her tracks when she realized that it was Tatsumi who was in front of her. A fierce blush spread across Esdeath's face, as she once again came face-to-face with the man she loved. "H-Huh? Tatsumi?"
"Okay..." Tatsumi thought with a fierce gaze in his eyes, gulping audibly. "I guess it's do or die time now." Steeling his determination, Tatsumi tightly balled his fists. "This can't be a coincidence, it must be fate! I have to convince Esdeath to leave the empire!"
"Oh my...what do I do? I'm not prepared for this..." Esdeath muttered to herself, as she rested her head on her hand; her blush darkening several shades. "I knew in my heart that we would meet again...but I never thought it would be this soon...I guess our love is truly meant to be...this feels like some kind of dream..." As Esdeath continued to murmur to herself, Tatsumi noticed several danger beasts crawling out of the shadows behind her.
"Now these bastards come out!" Tatsumi thought in annoyance, quickly reaching for the shotgun on his back. "I have to stop them before they hurt-" However, before Tatsumi could even unsling his weapon, he felt a spray of warm liquid splatter his face and chest. Touching a hand to his cheek, Tatsumi was surprised to see blood running down his fingers. "W-What the..." When Tatsumi raised his head, he gasped in shock at the carnage that lay before him. Standing in the middle of a mass of mutilated danger beasts was Esdeath, her rapier coated in monsters' blood. Adjusting her cap, Esdeath flicked her blade, splashing the ground before her with blood. "H-Holy shit...I didn't even have a second to react...s-she's the real deal..." Witnessing such an overwhelming display of power, Tatsumi felt his entire body begin to tremble. In an attempt to stop his shaking, Tatsumi tightly held onto his arm. Hearing a weak snarl, Tatsumi glanced down and saw that one of the butchered danger beasts was still clinging to life. The monster slowly crawled towards Esdeath in a feeble attempt to attack her.
"Stay out of this!" Esdeath growled, as she slammed the tip of her boot heel into the danger beast's head; coating her white boot in a spray of crimson blood. Tatsumi couldn't help but feel a twinge of pity, as he watched the danger beast whine in pain. Not bothering to kill the danger beast, Esdeath turned to Tatsumi with a bright smile on her face. "Now I know I'm not dreaming...I've eagerly been looking forward to the day we'd be reunited, Tatsumi."
"I've been anticipating this as well..." Tatsumi said with a sweatdrop, glancing down at the writhing danger beast that Esdeath was still standing on top of. "But before we continue any further...can you please put that thing out of its misery."
(Same Time: With Lubbock)
"Damn that Tatsumi...where the hell is he?" Lubbock muttered to himself, as he leaned up against the cliff's wall. "He said he'd be right back." Releasing a light sigh, Lubbock stared up at the night sky. "I hope nothing-" Lubbock stopped mid-sentence when he felt a tug on one of his wires. "What the...looks like an intruder is coming up from the base of the mountain...to the top?! And it's only one person...and they're moving so fast! This totally isn't normal!" In a snap decision, Lubbock used his wires to climb up into a nearby tree to avoid the intruder's detection. "That person was able to climb halfway up the mountain in just a few minutes...I have no idea who they are, but I really don't want to face them...with Tatsumi not back yet...something definitely isn't right here..." Trying to think of a plan, Lubbock glanced up at the mountain's summit. "Get ready Tatsumi...because something dangerous is coming your way."
(Back With Tatsumi and Esdeath)
After reuniting with Esdeath...it didn't take Tatsumi more than a second before he was captured once again by the empire's most feared general.
"Mmmm..." Esdeath hummed, hugging Tatsumi's head against her breasts and burying her face into his hair. Inhaling deeply, Esdeath released a content sigh. "Yeah...this is Tatsumi's scent without a doubt. You're definitely the real thing." Esdeath's smile widened as she hugged Tatsumi even tighter. "You're such a naughty boy, running away from me like that...I was so lonely without you...I was really worried about you..."
"Esdeath was worrying about me?" Tatsumi thought, as a slight blush began to spread across his face. However, Tatsumi quickly remembered what he had to do and shook his head to clear his mind. "I can't let my self be charmed by her right now! I have a job to do! I'm doing this for the revolutionary army and Esdeath herself!" Taking a short breath to collect himself, Tatsumi turned his head to look back at Esdeath. "By the way...why are you here Esdeath? It seems sorta odd for you to be all the way out here in the mountains."
"The Jaegers and myself have been exterminating the danger beasts that have been threatening the capital lately. I like to do my patrolling at night...it's quiet relaxing actually." Esdeath replied with a smile, combing her fingers through Tatsumi's hair. The young assassin felt the hairs on his neck stiffen when he saw Esdeath's eyes narrow slightly. "Actually...I'm the one who should be asking you why you're up here, Tatsumi."
"She's starting to get suspicious..." Tatsumi thought, as he bit his bottom lip. "I can't let her find out that I'm in Night Raid...not yet at least...I need to think of something to say..."
"Just tell her that you're up here to test your strength against the local danger beasts. She'll most likely buy that...and it might even earn you some points with her."
"That's not a bad idea...thanks Incursio!" Tatsumi thought, trying to push away from Esdeath. However, Esdeath had a firm grasp on Tatsumi and showed no sign of letting go. "U-Uh...could you please let me go?"
"No." Esdeath replied without a moment's hesitation, as she rested her chin on top of Tatsumi's head. "I won't let you out of my sight again."
"Damn this woman...she is too persistent!" Tatsumi thought, once again trying to wriggle free of Esdeath's grasp. After a few moments, Tatsumi managed to worm out of Esdeath's arms and stumble forward. Regaining his balance, Tatsumi turned to face Esdeath. "You wanted to know why I'm up here..." Tatsumi unslung the shotgun off his back and presented it to Esdeath. "I'm up here to test my abilities! I've heard rumors of really strong danger beasts in these mountains!"
"Hmmm, I see..." Esdeath muttered, as she stared at something on the ground. Quirking an eyebrow in confusion, Tatsumi lowered his gaze to see what Esdeath was looking at. Tatsumi's eyes widened when he spotted several of his specialty shotgun shells scattered on the ground.
"Shit! Those must have fell out of my pocket when I stumbled forward earlier!" Tatsumi thought in a panic, patting the pocket where he had been keeping the shells. "I have to-"
"These shotgun shells..." Esdeath said, as she crouched down and picked up two of the cartridges. The first shotgun shell Esdeath held in her hand had a metallic body and four small fins on the end, while the other shell was a solid crimson color. "This is a fragmentation round...and this other one like an incendiary shell. These are hard to come by, even for those in the military...and they're definitely not legal for civilians to own..." A chill ran down Tatsumi's spine as he watched Esdeath get back onto her feet. However, Tatsumi was caught off guard when Esdeath walked over and returned the shotgun shells back to him. But what surprised Tatsumi the most was the sad smile that was on Esdeath's face. "So...it looks like you really did join the revolutionary army."
"Is...Is she upset because she thinks I joined the revolutionary army? I guess she really doesn't want to have to fight against me...Despite her personality, she does seem to care about those that are close to her." Tatsumi thought, tightly balling his fists. "This only confirms my suspicions...there is some good within Esdeath, she's not the heartless witch everyone makes her out to be...she'll be led to ruin if she stays aligned with the empire...I have to get her to join our side!"
"It's a shame that I didn't find you sooner..." Esdeath said, as she lowered her head, avoiding Tatsumi's gaze. "If I did, I may have been able to convince you-"
"I haven't joined the revolutionary army...not yet at least." Tatsumi cut Esdeath off, causing her to raise her head and lock eyes with the young assassin. "But I haven't changed my mind at all!"
"Then how do you have those shotgun shells?" Esdeath asked, as she pointed to the ammo in Tatsumi's hand. "That ammo can't be purchased in any stores and it's only given to highly trained soldiers."
"While I was in the capital I made some...connections...that can get me things that normal people can't." Tatsumi half-lied, rubbing the back of his head. Sure, Tatsumi had made connections when he came to capital, he just couldn't tell Esdeath that his connections were Night Raid. "Since the danger beasts in these mountains are so strong I decided to bring some extra firepower."
Esdeath stared at Tatsumi suspiciously for several moments, before she released a sigh of relief, a small smile spreading across her face. "Well, that's a weight off my shoulders. I'm glad I won't have to fight you...for now at least." A slight blush spread across Tatsumi's face when he noticed that Esdeath was eyeing his body.
"W-What is it?" Tatsumi stuttered in an embarrassed tone, almost feeling the need to cover himself.
"Hmmm..." Esdeath hummed, as she walked over to Tatsumi. The young assassin was surprised when Esdeath began to pat his chest and squeeze his arms. "I see..." Esdeath could feel her heart rapidly pounding in her chest, as she gave Tatsumi's bicep another quick squeeze. Tatsumi didn't have massive, bulging muscles like some of the men Esdeath had met, but she could tell that he was very well built; and Esdeath was impressed by the raw power that seemed to emanate from Tatsumi's body. But what excited Esdeath the most was how fast Tatsumi's strength had grown. Esdeath knew that Tatsumi had some hidden potential the moment she laid eyes on him, that's one of the many things that drew her to him. But, Esdeath had to admit that she was quite shocked at how much stronger Tatsumi appeared to be after only a few short months. With the right training and tutelage, Esdeath believed that Tatsumi could one day become a warrior who could be her equal in battle. While Tatsumi still had an innocent side that Esdeath loved, she could tell that he was rapidly growing into a very capable man. "Your body has quite considerably since I last saw you...I'm very impressed!" With a sweet smile, Esdeath patted Tatsumi on the head. "It looks like you worked very hard in such a short time...and you still have so much growing to do. You'll be an impeccable warrior one day."
"T-Thanks...that means a lot coming from a person as strong as you..." Tatsumi mumbled, his face tinting red in embarassment. "Damn it! I'm getting swept up in her pace again! I have to take control of-"
"We've crushed almost all of the danger beasts...they were quite a handful, but..." Esdeath said, as she cupped Tatsumi's cheeks and pressed her forehead against his. When Esdeath next spoke, her voice sweet and loving. "Thanks to them, I was able to see you again. This must be what they call, "fate."
"GAH! She's not giving me any openings! I'm never gonna get a chance to talk with her seriously!" Tatsumi thought, tightly balling his fists. "At this rate Esdeath is gonna capture me again and there's no way she's gonna let me escape again! My plan will be ruined! I need something to distract Esdeath so that I can talk to her...what do I do?!" Tatsumi's brow furrowed, as he tried to think of a solution. But, Tatsumi stopped when he felt a shiver shoot down his spine. "There's someone else here!"
"Tatsumi is so adorable when he's thinking hard." Esdeath thought, as she smiled at the young assassin. However, before Esdeath could further bask in her lover's presence, she sensed someone watching them from the shadows. Releasing a heavy sigh, Esdeath gently pushed Tatsumi away and unsheathed her rapier. "This mountain is overflowing with nuisances." With an irritated look on her face, Esdeath pointed her blade at a large rock in front of her and Tatsumi. "I know you're hiding there. Come out this instant, or I'll attack first and ask questions later."
"So Esdeath noticed the presence as well...that's to be expected from what I've seen her do." Tatsumi thought, glancing at Esdeath, before turning his attention back to the mystery eavesdropper.
"Bah! I thought I did a better job masking my presence, but...well done I guess." A hooded figure said, as he emerged from behind the rock. "It's no surprise that they call you the empire's strongest...that boy also seemed to notice me, he must be pretty powerful too."
"Tatsumi sensed this guy too?" Esdeath thought, a smirk spreading across her face. "Maybe he's even stronger than I originally thought."
"Still, I never imagined that I'd run into you here..." The hooded figure said, as he raised his head, revealing a dark-skinned man with a large x-shaped scar across his face. "I suppose this will bring an end to my toy play."
"This guy looks dangerous..." Tatsumi thought, covertly reaching into his pocket and grabbing an explosive shotgun shell. "I better be prepared for anything."
"Maybe you should consider equipping your armor partner. I'm getting a bad feeling about this guy."
"No." Tatsumi thought, slowly pulling his hand out his pocket, explosive shotgun shell in his grasp. "I can't let Esdeath know that I'm a part of Night Raid. I'll only use my armor if I absolutely have to."
"You seem to be quite knowledgeable...that could be troublesome." Esdeath said, as her eyes narrowed dangerously. "Allow me to personally escort you to my torture room."
"That's a tempting offer, but I think I'll pass." The mystery man said, reaching into the sleeve of his cloak. "Heh...since we're both here...I think I'll have you take care of a rather big thorn in my side."
"Here it comes!" Tatsumi thought, as he watched the mystery man pull out a strange device. The young assassin's muscles tensed, and time seemed to slow around him, as he waited for the right time to strike.
"Teigu: Shambala-"
"Now!" Tatsumi thought, seeing the perfect opportunity to attack with the hooded figure's guard down momentarily. Using a quick draw technique Mine had taught him, Tatsumi grabbed his shotgun's buttstock and pulled the weapon so that he was ready to fire from the hip. Tatsumi loaded the explosive shell into the shotgun, just as Esdeath and the hooded man began to react to his movements. In the blink of an eye Tatsumi had brought his firearm into a firing position and loaded it.
"Activate!" The hooded man finished his exclamation, just as he spotted Tatsumi aiming his shotgun at him.
A split second before Tatsumi pulled the trigger, a large, blinding circle of light appeared underneath him and Esdeath. The flash of light caused Tatsumi's aim to go off target, as he slammed his eyes shut. When Tatsumi fired his shot, the explosive shell hit a rock a few feet away from the mysterious man. The hooded figure may not have been hit by the actual explosion, instead several pieces of shrapnel and rock lodged themselves into his arm and and side.
"Gah!" The hooded-figure roared in pain, as he fell to one knee and pressed a hand to his side. The mysterious man growled in anger when he saw blood coating his hand. "That son of bitch!" Slowly getting back onto his feet, the mystery man tossed away his tattered cloak. Glaring at where Esdeath and Tatsumi had been staring a moment before, the mystery man tightly balled his fists. "How dare that little fuck hurt me! I'll skin him alive the next time I-" Wincing as intense pain once again shot through his body, the mystery man pressed his hand against his side. "Fuck...visiting my old man will have to wait...I need to find a doctor fast."
(Moments Later: Unknown Location)
"H-Huh..." Tatsumi muttered, his mouth hanging agape in shock as he stared at the vast beach and sprawling ocean in front of him. "What the hell is going on here!? Where are we?!"
"This is quite odd." Esdeath said in a calm tone, as she stroked her chin.
"T-This can't be happening! This has to be some type of dream or illusion!" Tatsumi exclaimed, grabbing a fistful of his hair. Starting to panic slightly, Tatsumi quickly turned the blue-haired woman next to him. "Esdeath, please hit me! Nothing that will leave a mark, just something that will sting for a second!"
"Oh Tatsumi..." Esdeath breathed out, as she pressed a hand against her cheek, a slight blush dusting across her face. "We truly are meant to be!"
"I didn't mean like that, damn it!" Tatsumi yelled, stomping his foot in irritation. "What I mean is that weird guy from before might be making us hallucinate or something...so if I feel some pain it might wake me up!"
"*Sigh* Very well...close your eyes, Tatsumi." Esdeath said, as she raised her hand to slap Tatsumi. When Esdeath saw that Tatsumi's eyes fully closed, a small smile spread across her face. Tatsumi kept his eyes shut as he waited for Esdeath to hit him, but he was surprised when nothing happened after several seconds. Peeking for a moment, Tatsumi's eyes widened when he saw that Esdeath's face was inches away from his own. Esdeath gave Tatsumi no time to react, as she cupped his face and kissed him passionately. Tatsumi stood frozen in shock for several moments, dozens of thoughts racing through his brain. This was the second time Esdeath had kissed him, and once again Tatsumi was enjoying the liplock. Esdeath's lips tasted oddly sweet and Tatsumi found them intoxicating. The young assassin knew that he couldn't let himself be charmed by Esdeath, but something about her seemed to draw him closer. However, just before Tatsumi began to kiss back, Esdeath pulled away. Adjusting her cap, Esdeath turned her back to Tatsumi, mainly to hide the fierce blush on her face. As Esdeath walked slightly further down the beach, Tatsumi couldn't help but stare at the subtle sway of her hips. "That proves this isn't a hallucination. Everything here is too real. The scent of salt, the sea breeze...the temperature and humidity...it's all the real deal."
"Partner, you need to get a hold of yourself."
"Shit...you're right!" Tatsumi thought, patting his cheeks to help regain focus and rid his mind of any indecent thoughts. "I need to stop getting caught up in Esdeath's pace!"
"Damn horny teenagers, all they think about is sex."
"What was that, Incursio?"
"Nothing, now focus on convincing that woman to join the revolutionary army's side. This might be your last chance to try."
"I know I heard you say something...but you're right! It's go time!" Tatsumi thought, his eyes burning with fiery determination.
"Then that means that man's teigu was able to transport us?" Tatsumi asked, as he stroked his chin. "Is something like that even possible?"
"Yes, very much so." Esdeath replied, crossing her arms underneath her chest, still not facing Tatsumi. "The empire created forty-eight super weapons, called teigu. I've heard that some of them are capable of lost arts...that are even able to manipulate space itself."
"Wow...that's incredible." Tatsumi said, as he glanced down at Incursio's key. "Now that I really think about it, that must be how Incursio suddenly appears on me out of thin air."
"Just who was that man?" Esdeath thought, staring up at the sky. "That teigu he was using was quite powerful, possibly even in the top five..."
"So I guess it's pretty safe to presume that we're on the kingdom's shore or something." Tatsumi said, as he jogged over to Esdeath. "What do you think, Esdeath?"
"I can't be too sure, but how about we get a better look around?" Esdeath said, slamming her hand onto the ground.
"How are we-" Tatsumi was cut off when the ground beneath him began to tremble. Moments later, Tatsumi's eyes shot open in shock when he suddenly found himself standing atop a massive pillar of ice with Esdeath. "Holy shit...we're so high up...it feels like I can see for miles." Kneeling down, Tatsumi stared in awe at the seemingly endless ocean before him. "The ocean seems to stretch on forever...I take back what I said earlier, we must be on an island."
"It's quite the lovely view." Esdeath said with a smile, sitting on the edge of the ice tower next to Tatsumi. "You know...us being all alone like this...it kinda feels like we're on a date."
"You sure are calm, despite the situation we're in." Tatsumi said, as he chuckled lightly. "Well I can't say I'm too surprised. After spending some time with you, it seems like you always manage to keep calm under pressure."
"Well after living the life I have, you learn to keep a flexible attitude." Esdeath said, covertly scooting closer to Tatsumi. "But let's forget about that for now..." Without warning, Esdeath lunged forward and wrapped her arms around Tatsumi's neck, hugging him against her chest. Looking back, Tatsumi felt his heart race when he saw a bright smile and slight blush on Esdeath's face. "It totally feels like we're on a date! I'm so happy right now!"
"S-So cute...this is the side of Esdeath that I want to see more often." Tatsumi thought, as he stared at the overjoyed general. "She's like a little girl when it comes to love...I guess she really has never experienced anything like this before. I still don't really understand why she chose me out all people, but I will do my best to teach this coldhearted woman about love. But first I have to-" Tatsumi was pulled from his thoughts when the ice tower began to shake and the deep rumbling could be heard in the distance. Turning their heads to to look towards the horizon, both Tatsumi and Esdeath were surprised to see a massive danger beast towering over the treeline. But what shocked Tatsumi the most was that the massive danger beast looked eerily similar to Dr. Stylish after he had transformed into a hulking monster. "There's no doubt, that thing has to be connected to Dr. Stylish somehow. Last time it took all of Night Raid to take something like this down. Will just the two of us be able to do it?"
"All of these distraction, one after another." Esdeath muttered, releasing a heavy sigh as she stood back onto her feet.
"Here it comes!" Tatsumi called out, as he watched the gigantic danger beast barrel towards them. Wasting no time, Tatsumi grabbed the shotgun off his back and loaded in several explosive shells. "Esdeath, I'll back you-"
"No." Esdeath cut Tatsumi off, holding out her arms and pressing her fingertips together, a faint glow emanating from the mark on her chest. "This scum has interrupted our time alone together." Tatsumi watched in awe as dozens of spears made out of ice formed in the air all around Esdeath. "We were interrupted once earlier, I will not tolerate anymore interference! You'll look like a delicious treat speared by my icicles!" With a wicked smile, Esdeath waved her arm towards the charging colossus, sending her icicles flying towards it. "Weiss Schnabel!"
"What is Esdeath's teigu exactly..." Tatsumi pondered, as he watched another wave of ice spears seemingly form out of thin air. "From what I've seen, she doesn't use power from a weapon or armor...I'll try asking her about it later...but for now..." Turning his attention back to the monstrous danger beast, Tatsumi grit his teeth in frustration as he watched the monster block Esdeath's icicles with its massive arms. "Just as I thought, this bastard is gonna be tough to kill." Pumping his shotgun, Tatsumi fiercely glared at the approaching danger beast. "I can't just stand around and let Esdeath do all the work."
"Oh-ho, he's much tougher than I thought. This certainly has become more interesting." Esdeath said in a calm tone, a smirk spreading across her face.
"That thing on his forehead..." Tatsumi said, as he pointed towards the human fused to the top of the monster's head. "That's got to be some type of weakness, right?"
"I was thinking the exact same thing." Esdeath replied with a grin, slamming her hand onto ice pillar. "I knew we were destined to be together! Grauhorn!" The ice tower they were standing on shook for a moment, before a massive spear of ice erupted from the center of the pillar. The spear of ice raced towards the danger beast's head, but the monster dodged to the side at the last moment, causing Esdeath's attack to just barely miss her target. "You're quite the stubborn aren't you?" Esdeath prepared to launch another attack, but she was shocked when she saw Tatsumi take off running passed her. The young assassin leaped off the tower and landed on giant spear of ice. Without a moment's hesitation, Tatsumi sprinted toward's the colossal danger beast. Esdeath's eyes filled with worry, as she watched Tatsumi prepare to take on the danger beast by himself. "Tatsumi!?"
"Remember everything you've been taught! Don't forget all your training!" Tatsumi chanted in his head, as he grew ever closer to the massive danger beast. As Tatsumi neared the danger beast, he spotted a gap between him and the monster. "Remember Akame's speed training!" Tatsumi increased his stride length, concentrating on bringing his knees closer to his chest on each stride, which helped his speed increase even further. "Remember Leone's agility and strength training!" Reaching the end of the ice spear, Tatsumi poured all of his power into his legs and leaped into the air above the danger beast's head. "Remember Mine's weapons training!" Tatsumi took a deep breath to calm his racing heart and time seemed to slow around him. Raising his shotgun, Tatsumi took aim at the man fused to danger beast's forehead. Tatsumi rapidly fired three explosive frag shells, all of them hitting their target dead center. After firing his shots, Tatsumi quickly closed his eyes and raised his arms to shield himself as he fell into the explosion's fireball.
"TATSUMI!" Esdeath exclaimed, watching as Tatsumi disappeared into the ball of fire. For several moments Esdeath could feel her heart thundering with worry, waiting with baited breath for a sign that Tatsumi was safe. Esdeath breathed a massive sigh of relief when she saw Tatsumi burst out of the fireball a few moments later, a stupid grin on his face. What had only lasted a few seconds felt like an eternity to Esdeath.
"WAHOOO!" Tatsumi cheered with a massive, childlike grin, as he landed on top of the collapsing danger beast. The young assassin's hair was blown back and completely disheveled, and his clothes were burned and covered in soot. "That was fucking awesome!"
"Why is my heart beating so fast?" Esdeath thought, lowering her gaze and clutching a hand over her still pounding heart. "I've lost numerous comrades and underlings before...but when I think of losing Tatsumi...my chest starts to ache and I almost feel like crying...is this because I truly love Tatsumi? Is this what it feels like when you lose someone you love? I've never experienced this type of feeling before...not even when father..." Esdeath briefly balled her fists when that unpleasant memory flashed through her mind. "Well I don't like this feeling, and I don't want to lose Tatsumi...I have to do my best to keep him safe...he's become too precious to me." A small smile spread across Esdeath's face, as she turned her gaze back to Tatsumi. "It's quite funny...I wanted to show off and make Tatsumi fall for me...but somehow he made me fall for him even harder...however he'll need to be punished for making me worry like that."
"Esdeath! Look out! There's another one of those things coming right for you!" Tatsumi's concerned screams pulled Esdeath from her thoughts. Turning around, Esdeath spotted another towering danger beast barreling toward her.
"Now's not the time to be thinking about those type of things." Esdeath thought, her eyes narrowing in frustration. Glaring at the charging danger beast, Esdeath hopped off her tower of ice. "Leave it to me, Tatsumi. I'll give him a death fitting a disgusting beast." With the snap of her fingers, a ball of ice the size of a small building formed over Esdeath's head. "Hagel Sprung!" Throwing both her arms forward, Esdeath hurled the huge chunk of ice at the danger beast, crushing the monster underneath tons of frozen water.
"That sure is a flashy way to fight...it's like she's on a completely different level." Tatsumi muttered in awe, before he hopped off the dead danger beast he was standing on. The young assassin watched as Esdeath landed gracefully, looking as if she hadn't even broken a sweat after using such powerful attacks. "So, this is the power of the empire's strongest? After seeing something like that, I can't imagine how we'd be able to defeat her. It would take all of Night Raid working together to even have a chance of stopping her." Lowering head and releasing a light sigh, Tatsumi remembered the declaration Akame had made to defeat Esdeath if he couldn't convince her to join the revolutionary army's side. "I don't doubt Akame's strength, but for her sake, and for everyone else I care about, I can't let them fight against someone this strong. Even if we managed to defeat Esdeath, we would end up suffering heavy casualties. I can't allow the empire to have such a powerful fighter!" When Tatsumi raised his head, he was surprised to see that Esdeath was rapidly walking towards him, her cap hiding her eyes. "What's up with Esdeath? She looks-" Tatsumi's thoughts were interrupted when Esdeath harshly slapped him across the cheek.
"Don't you ever worry me like that ever again." Esdeath said, hugging Tatsumi's head against her breasts, much to the young assassin's shock and embarassment. "I thought I was going to lose you."
"What's with this woman? I can never get good read on her." Tatsumi thought, as he gently pushed away from Esdeath. "But...I am kinda glad that she's worried about me, that means I might have a higher chance of convincing her to join our side." Looking up, Tatsumi locked eyes with Esdeath. "Sorry Esdeath, but I had to step in. I couldn't just let you fight by yourself."
"I appreciate the thought Tatsumi, but I could have handled things myself. Don't forget..." Esdeath said with a smirk, cupping Tatsumi's chin. "You will be mine Tatsumi, so don't go doing reckless things." Planting a quick kiss on the cheek she had slapped, Esdeath began to walk down the beach. "Now, let's find a suitable place to set up camp."
"That woman scares the hell out of me..." Tatsumi said with a slight blush, as he rubbed the cheek Esdeath had slapped and kissed.
"Hmm, that's strange."
"What is it, Incursio." Tatsumi thought, as he began to follow after Esdeath.
"It seems like the Esdeath in this time is more attached to you, than the Esdeath I remember."
"Well that's a good thing, right?" Tatsumi thought, gazing at Esdeath's back. "That means I'll have a better chance of influencing her."
"Well let's hope so, partner. Because the time is coming soon, this is most likely your last chance to win Esdeath over."
"You're right." Tatsumi thought, as his eyes filled with determination. "I will get Esdeath to join our side!"
(Two Hours Later: Makeshift Camp)
"I must admit Tatsumi, this was quite delicious." Esdeath said, setting down her makeshift bowl and picking up a small notebook. "You're an excellent cook."
"Thanks, I did what I could with what little materials we managed to scrounge up." Tatsumi said with a smile, as his face flushed slightly in embarassment at Esdeath's praise. "Anyways, it looks like those two were the last of the danger beasts on this island."
"Which means this is where those danger beasts were hiding." Esdeath said, scribbling down something in her notebook.
"Yeah, but we're still stuck on this island." Tatsumi said, as he stared out at the ocean behind them. "Once we're done with our break, what do you think we should do?"
"First we need to investigate the surrounding area." Esdeath replied, not looking up from her notebook. "We still need to get a good grasp of our situation."
"Fair point." Tatsumi said, as he set down his own makeshift bowl. "There's still so much we don't know."
"If we panic, we'd be shooting ourselves in the foot. We must not start panicking." Esdeath explained, standing onto her feet. "I must say you've been taking this whole situation remarkably well."
"Well I've been taught by some of the best on how to remain calm under pressure." Tatsumi replied, as he got onto his feet as well. "Besides, I can't help but feel secure when someone as strong as you is with me."
"Don't worry Tatsumi, I'll do whatever I can to keep you safe." Esdeath said with a smile, a slight blush spreading across her face. "Now, let's start exploring this island."
"Roger that!" Tatsumi cheered with a grin, as he pulled out Incursio's blade. "I'll lead the way!"
"That boy, so full of energy." Esdeath thought, watching as Tatsumi hacked away some vines and made his way into the jungle. Once Tatsumi was out of sight, Esdeath pulled out her notebook and gazed down at a rough drawing of her and Tatsumi. However, Esdeath frowned as she stared at her drawing of Tatsumi. "Hmmm, it doesn't quite look like him."
(That Night: Beach Near the Makeshift Camp)
"Hah, we sure covered a lot of ground today and we managed to get a good grasp of our surroundings." Tatsumi said, as he stared up at the night sky. The young assassin was sitting on the beach with Esdeath near the makeshift camp he had set up with her. "The Sun even set while we were exploring."
"Yes, but we had fun!" Esdeath said with a smile, covertly scooting a little closer to Tatsumi. "It's been such a long time since I enjoyed myself this much."
"I...had fun to." Tatsumi said, as he watched a shooting star fly by overhead. "By the looks of it we're on a deserted island to the far southeast of the empire, we're probably even in a different timezone."
"Tatsumi...how did you know that?" Esdeath asked in a surprised tone, her eyes widened slightly.
"I read a lot, so I picked up on the signs in our surroundings." Tatsumi replied, as a grin spread across his face. "Actually, I wouldn't know any of this if Sayo hadn't pushed me so hard to study." Turning around, Tatsumi pointed towards a strange looking plant near the edge of the jungle. "I noticed when we exploring that most of the flora only grows wildly in the far South." Next Tatsumi pointed to the night sky overhead. "I can also roughly tell our location by reading the stars."
"That's amazing Tatsumi!" Esdeath exclaimed, clapping her hands together. "I was about to say the same thing, but you beat me to it!"
"So we really were transported here?" Tatsumi muttered, as he rested his head on his knees. "I want to get back home...I miss Akame and everyone else."
"Oh, don't look so glum Tatsumi." Esdeath said in a playful tone, moving closer and pressing her hip against Tatsumi's. "You and I are the only one's on this island, we should make the best of our situation."
"Yeah...I guess you're right." Tatsumi said, as he released a light sigh. As Tatsumi continued to stare up at the night sky, he felt something touching his hand. Glancing down, Tatsumi wasn't surprised to see Esdeath's hand on top of his, trying to interlock their fingers. "Her hand...it's warm...and oddly comforting..." Sneaking a glance at Esdeath, Tatsumi saw that she had a content smile on her face. "I would love to stay like this for a while...but I can't put this off any longer." Releasing another sigh, Tatsumi pulled his hand away from Esdeath, much to the general's surprise. "Listen Esdeath...we need to talk."
"*Sigh* I was wondering when this would be coming." Esdeath said with a slight frown, leaning back on her palms. "Yes, I suppose we do have some things to discuss. Since you're bringing this up, I assume that you have some enticing news for me."
"Well I've spoken with some people high up in the revolutionary army and-"
"I thought you said that you hadn't joined the revolutionary army yet." Esdeath said in a suspicious tone, her eyes narrowing faintly.
"I haven't!" Tatsumi quickly exclaimed, as he frantically waved dismissively. "I just...have some friends that are in the revolutionary army and they allowed me to speak with some of their leaders. I told them about your situation and...they're willing to make some exceptions."
"Alright, I listening." Esdeath said, leaning forward and gazing intently at Tatsumi. "Let's hear what you have to say."
"While the revolutionary army can't give you the same freedoms you have right now, they'd be willing to allow you to personally interrogate any prisoners we capture. Then once we assault the capital, you would be leading the charge with the other soldiers providing support." Tatsumi explained, which definitely earned Esdeath's interest.
"That's actually sounds like a tempting offer Tatsumi. After hearing what you said about the minister I've done quite a lot of thinking, and I can't help but find the man utterly repulsive now. All his underhanded and shady tactics make me absolutely sick. He's a pathetic worm that deserves to be squashed underneath my boot." Esdeath said, sparking a fire of hope within Tatsumi. "While the freedoms you offer me may satiate my desires, I still don't fully believe in the revolutionary army's strength...and there's still one more thing...what will happen to me after this war is over? I'm sure the leaders of the revolutionary army aren't too happy with the things that I've done. I refuse to fight for someone that's just going to stab me in the back once the fighting is over."
"I completely understand that and we came to an agreement. Instead of executing or imprisoning you after the war is over..." Tatsumi said, as he balled his fists, which wasn't missed by Esdeath. "You'd be exiled from the empire and would never be allowed to return."
"Exile? I don't really like the sound of that, but I suppose that's better than being executed or imprisoned." Esdeath said, cocking her head slightly, noticing that Tatsumi appeared to be fidgeting. "What's wrong Tatsumi? You seem tense right now."
"There was one more condition I agreed to." Tatsumi replied, which caused Esdeath to quirk an eyebrow. "When...When you go into exile...I'll go with you." When Tatsumi said this Esdeath's eyes widened considerably. "I'll stay with you to make sure you don't do anything too bad."
"Tatsumi..." Esdeath breathed out, her heart pounding in her chest. "You'd be giving up your chance to return home...why would you go so far for me?"
"Because no one has seen the sides of you that I have, Esdeath." Tatsumi said, as he grabbed ahold of Esdeath's hand and locked eyes with her. The blue-haired general was shocked by the intensity she saw in Tatsumi's emerald eyes. "Everyone thinks that you're some bloodthirsty witch who only desires to kill and torture, but in the time we've spent together I've seen a side of you that few others have. You sincerely care for those under your command, you laugh and smile...and you want to go on dates and experience love like a normal girl. The way you've been smiling so brightly today...the way you hold me and comfort me...it's not something a heartless murderer would do." Tatsumi gently squeezed Esdeath's hand. "Look Esdeath, I know you've done some truly horrible things in the past...I know you've killed lots of people...I know that you believe in survival of the fittest...but I've seen that there's good inside you, I've seen it first hand. I want to see that good side of you more often, and if you have to fight I want you to fight for a just cause. I want you to help destroy the current empire and make this country stronger."
"Tatsumi...I don't know what to say..." Esdeath said, clutching a hand to her head. "I'm so confused right now...my heart is telling me to follow you and stay by your side...but my mind is telling me to stay in my current position...I don't know what to do..."
"Esdeath..." Tatsumi said, as he pulled the bemused woman in for a tight hug. "Listen to your heart...fight back against the minister...prove to him that the revolutionary army is stronger than his forces. If you do I'll be by your side the entire way...and once the fighting is over we'll go on a journey together...we'll explore new places all over the world."
"Tatsumi...this all sounds too good to be true." Esdeath said, resting her head in the crook of Tatsumi's neck. "I...I'm still hesitant to leave the empire...As much as I hate the minister, I can't help but feel that you'd be safer with me back at the palace."
"Please Esdeath..." Tatsumi said, as he gently pushed Esdeath away to look her in the eyes. "I don't want you to become my enemy. Is there any other way I can convince you?"
"There might be one way I'd consider going..." Esdeath muttered as a hidden smirk spread across her face, causing Tatsumi's eyes to light up. "As you know Tatsumi I value strength over anything else...well back in my home village we would often challenge each other to various contests...the loser would have to something for the winner, whatever it may be." Standing onto her feet, Esdeath loomed over Tatsumi. "So what do you say Tatsumi? I'll let you pick the contest...and if you beat me I'll go with you to join the revolutionary army...but if you lose you'll come back with me to empire." Tatsumi gulped when he saw a devious glint in Esdeath's eyes. "However Tatsumi, you can't simple beat me, you must completely dominate me in whatever challenge you choose. I won't accept your offer unless you can prove that you can best me. Well...what do you say Tatsumi?"
"Shit...what do I do? " Tatsumi thought, as he quickly racked his brain. "If I want to get Esdeath to join our side, I'll have defeat her in some sort of contest...I have to think of something I know I can beat her in...not just beat her, dominate her..." Soon, Tatsumi's eyes landed on his shotgun. "I could challenge her to a shooting contest...but then again I don't know how skilled she is with firearms. I've never seen her shoot a gun, but I can't take that risk! Come on Tatsumi think of something! Your friend's lives are on the line here!" As thoughts raced through Tatsumi's mind, he began to remember how Esdeath would act whenever they were alone together, as if she were a little girl spending time with her crush. "There's one thing I know Esdeath has absolutely no experience in..." Standing onto his feet, Tatsumi gazed at Esdeath. The blue-haired general had undone her button-up shirt, revealing a pale blue bikini underneath, one that barely covered her impressive bust. Esdeath had also taken off her cap, her flowing blue hair seeming to glow in the pale moonlight.
"Damn horny teenagers, all they think about is sex."
"There's one thing I know I have more experience in." Tatsumi thought, as he took a deep breath to calm his nerves. "Alright, this something I have to do...but I have a feeling that I'll enjoy it." Locking eyes with Esdeath, Tatsumi began to advance towards her.
"Oh, have you-" Esdeath was cut off when Tatsumi suddenly cupped her cheeks and passionately kissed her. The general's eyes widened considerably when she felt Tatsumi's tongue snake into her mouth. "T-Tatsumi is kissing me! This is the first time he's initiated a kiss!"
"Okay Esdeath..." Tatsumi thought, as he slowly allowed his hands to roam Esdeath's body, causing her to moan softly into their kiss. "You asked for it, so I'm going to dominate you!"
And done! God damn, this chapter took way too long to get out, and I'm so sorry about that! Again, I sincerely apologize for the ridiculous wait for this chapter, I actually planned to have this chapter out almost a month ago, but I've been absolutely slammed with work lately. Because of people taking vacations, I had to work three 40 hour weeks in a row, and that absolutely killed all the energy I had. Any free time I had I was usually too exhausted to do anything other than lazing around. But thank you for being patient with me. Well, I hope you all enjoyed this chapter! Tatsumi is close to making Esdeath switch side, but he'll have to dominate her in a contest of his choosing! I bet you can all guess what's coming next chapter! I will try to have the next chapter out as soon as possible. Remember to follow/favorite if you enjoyed, PLEASE REVIEW (I need your feedback), PM me any ideas you have for any of my fics, and check out my profile and other fics if you haven't already. So until next time, I'm outta here!