Twenty minutes after Dr. Stylish's defeat, inside Night Raid's Hideout.
The members of Clockwork and Night Raid gathered in the hideout's meeting room. Unlike most of the hideout, this room was left undisturbed, creating the illusion that the base was never attacked at all.
Najenda, whom sat in her throne chair, flanked by her subordinates on both sides faced the majority of the (known) members of Clockwork. In the center of the group, directly across from Najenda, stood the masked figure known as Joker.
"First, I wish to thank you for allowing us to have this conversation." Joker said. "It is an honor and privilege to be in the presence of such esteemed enemies of the Empire."
"Not at all." Najenda replied. "If fact, it should be I thanking you for your assistance in that last battle. If you and your subordinates weren't there, who knows who we could've lost."
"Perhaps." Joker paused for a moment. "I suppose we should start with the formal introductions." He held up his right hand, moving it to one side.
"To my right is Pyro, whom a number of you are familiar with. His Imperial Arms is All To Ashes: Phoenix Flame. After seeing him in combat, I assume most of you have figured out by now that this Imperial Arms allows him to freely manipulate fire, as well as morph his very body into flames."
"Besides him is one of the many Hosts of Serpentine; a parasite organic type Imperial Arms. This particular host also wields an Imperial Arms known as Faster Than the Wind: Twin Hurricane Dancers."
Joker pointed to the twin swords holstered around the young Steven's wast. "These twin blades allow its user to manipulate the very air for all sorts of wind elemental attacks."
"Standing behind him is a man whom left an impression on Bulat and Tatsumi, or so I've come to believe. One of the few warriors who can defeat Imperial Arms users without using one himself and one of the last survivors of the Ban Tribe; Raryu."
Najenda's eye half twitched as Joker mentioned the Ban Tribe. It made sense now why this large tribesman stared at her with such an unnerving gaze. He knew who she was, and her role in the battle that eliminated most of his tribe.
He was out for revenge. Had to be.
"To my left," Joker continued, holding a hand out in the indicated direction. "Are the infamous Bloodborn Twins. A pair of cannibals who roamed the lesser cities around the Capital, preying on all unfortunate to cross their path."
"Beside them is a foreigner known as Xein Shi; a mercenary from a land in the far east."
"Towering behind them is Norman the Giant Slayer. A famous warrior from the Northern Tribes, as his title suggests he's fought and slain a number of Frost Giants among other large Danger Beasts."
"And finally," Joker placed his hand on his chest. "I am Joker, leader of Clockwork. For personal reasons I choice to hide behind a mask befitting the current state of this once glorious Empire."
"This might seem rude before formally introducing myself and my subordinates," Najenda said. "But I have a question I'd like to get off my chest."
"Of course," Joker replied with a nod. "I'll be happy to answer any questions you should have."
"What exactly do you and your origination hope to gain from all this?" She said bluntly. "You've gone well out of your way for us, and though we appreciate all you have done, I think we deserve to know your reasons."
Silence filled the room as both team's leaders stared at one another.
"We only hope to gain your cooperation." Joker said after a few moments of silence. "An alliance if you would, between the coup faction I've sided with and the Revolutionary Army you've pledged your services towards."
"Our goals are similar, yet quite different. However, we share a common enemy." He extended his hands outward. "Therefore, it would benefit both our factions if we joined forces to cut the rotten cancer the currently infests the heart of the Capital."
"I see," Najenda closed her eye, giving a half smile as she rested her head on her artificial arm. "Cooperation would certainly make our jobs that much easier." She opened her eye before lifting her head up. "It's unfortunate that decision isn't mine to make, but rather those at the Revolutionary HQ."
"Of course." Joker held up a hand to his face. "After all, we shouldn't make deals behind our superiors backs. That's a tactic befitting those who wish to act...independently."
Najenda stared at the masked man for a few moments. Was that meant for her? Or someone else? Was Clockwork not as united as they appeared or was it a hint toward something other? Until she found out more about Clockwork and this masked man who claims to lead them, the former general chose to drop in for the time being.
"It's our turn for introductions." She said, holding out her left hand. "To my right are Tatsumi, Akame, Balut and Leone."
She gestured to her left. "On my left are Lubbock, Mine, and our three newest recruits Susanoo, Walker, and Chelsea."
She smiled, resting her chin on the backsides of her hands. "As you should know, I'm former General Najenda. Together we make up Night Raid."
"So you choose to withhold which Imperial Arms they each process." Raryu added.
Najenda looked at the large man. "I was under the impression you've already knew about our Imperial Arms."
Raryu tilted his head, frowning at the former general.
"We do." Serpentine cut in. "But since we shared ours its only polite to return the favor." He glanced at Susanoo, smiling. "You're an organic aren't you?"
"...Yeah." Susanoo replied. "I am Master Najenda's Imperial Arms."
Norman let out a chuckle. "I knew you weren't normal, after all you fought blow for blow against that abomination."
"If they don't wish to share such valuable intelligence that is fine." Joker cut in. "The only reason I revealed the capability of ours is to help build trust between our two groups."
"Trust huh?" Lubbock replied. "Funny, coming from a guy behind a mask running a group who have a known habit of appearing out of nowhere. Why should we tell you anything if you already know?"
Najenda held up a hand, commanding Lubbock to calm himself. The young man was always the cautious type, so she couldn't blame him for saying such a thing.
"We do appreciate the assistance you've given us so far." She repeated, lowing her hand. "But at this point, I cannot promise you anything. The most I can guarantee is a truce between the two of our groups until my superiors advice me further."
"That is fine." Joker replied with a nod. He turned his head to Tatsumi. "This boy has more details on our overall objective as several members from our faction discussed with him during his time at the Palace."
Joker turned his head back to Najenda. "Be sure to include that in your report, if you would."
He turned to his right, looking directly at Serpentine's host Steven. The latter turned his head and nodded. A moment later, another one of his host appeared as if out of thin air: It was one of his shinobi, one with blue patched of hair popping out of the single opening of his face mask.
"This is Shi, another of Serpentine's hosts." Joker walked over to the ninja. "If you would allow it, I would like him to accompany you until you've received word from you superiors."
"And why would I allow that?" Najenda raised an eyebrow.
Joker turned slightly towards her. "In return, you will receive information from our agent inside the ranks of Esdeath's Jaegers."
The former general's eyes widened. They infiltrated such a high ranking group? One that belonged to General Esdeath no less!
"He's a man Tatsumi is already familiar with." Joker continued. "If you wish to confirm our credibility, ask him."
Najenda glanced at the young man, whom returned her gaze with a nod.
"He can also assist with any task you wish to give, as long as it doesn't compromise his objective." Joker fully turned to face Najenda, crossing his arms behind his back. "Think of him as a loan."
Najenda closed her eye, a smirk appeared on her face. "Very well." She reopened her eye. "He may accompany Night Raid until Revolutionary HQ send us their reply."
Joker nodded, he half turned, looking at the various details put into a far wall. "Its a shame that a well built hideout such as this has been discovered."
"I've already made plans to relocate for the next few months until another hideout can be put in place."
"Very good." Joker looked at Najenda. "In Night Raids absence, I promise we of Clockwork will harass the forces of the Empire as much as possible. Specifically Esdeath and her personal army."
"It would be ideal if you could eliminate them in our absence."
"We shall see."
As the two leaders talked, Pyro couldn't take his eyes off the brownish pink haired girl known as Chelsea.
It was, an obsession? Maybe not quite like that but...She was cute, very cute. The Clockwork member seen many cute girls before, especially in Fuyu's mansion, so it wasn't just that he though she was cute. There was something...more.
Chelsea noticed the young adult staring at her intimately. She turned her head slightly, giving the latter a smile. Pyro blinked a few times before turning his head aside. He paused before looking back at the hot pink haired girl. The latter chuckled, finding amusement in the gesture.
"That is all I wish to discuss." Joker said bluntly. "I bid you good day, members of Night Raid." He bowed, spinning around, then headed for the exit. The majority of the Clockwork members followed suit, the only exceptions being Pyro, Steven, Raryu and of course Shi.
Steven walked up to Pyro, he pulled at his arm successfully drawing his attention. "Hey, we're leaving." He said with a smirk. "You'll get plenty of chances to make goo goo eyes at pretty girls elsewhere."
"I wasn't...Sh-shut up."
Pyro turned around and followed his comrade for a few steps before turning his head back. Chelsea meet his gaze, smiled, and waved at the man. Pyro smiled, waving back at her before continuing on his way out.
When Pyro was almost out the door, Chelsea leaned over to Mine. She nudged on the latter's shoulder, catching the pink haired girl's attention.
"Hey, I think that guy likes me." She smirked. "Guess my feminine charms caught his attention huh?"
"Yeah well I wouldn't be to proud of that."
"Or maybe you're jealous cause I have a bigger chest than you. Flat chest!"
Mine's pig tails spiked up with her anger. "ARRRAAA TAKE THAT BACK!"
"Nope!" Chelsea grinned her teeth. "Chibby Chibby~"
"NOT EVEN THE FIRST DAY AND I ALREADY HATE YOU!"
Ignoring the potential cat fight going on beside him, Lubbock stared at the exit door.
"Man, that Joker guy's a total freak." He said, crossing his arms.
Not even a moment after, Raryu started to approach the group.
"Oh uh, I think he heard you mate." Walker said with a smirk.
Lubbock uncrossed his arms, a drop of sweat ran down his face. "Ah crap..."
The large tribesman continued towards Night Raid, each of them watching the man with caution. (Except Mine and Chelsea of course, still in their little cat fight.) Raryu stared at Najenda, the intensity of his gaze was so focused that it almost seemed palpable.
"I assume you have some business with me?" Najenda said, breaking the lasting silence.
"Correct." The man bluntly replied. "I wish to express myself, and make clear the actions I intend to carry out concerning yourself."
"This is about the Ban Tribe?"
"Indeed." Raryu paused a few moments. "I intend to avenge the destruction of my tribe, of the deaths of each of my brothers and sisters but striking down every notable officer commanding the Imperial forces that day."
The large tribesman tilted his head down, his eyes beating down on Najenda like an animal waiting for the right time to strike. "There are only two left now. General Esdeath, and yourself: Former General Najenda."
Raryu felt a hand on his shoulder. He turned, looking into the intense eyes of Bulat.
"If you think we'll stand by and watch you kill our boss, you have another thing coming."
"You'll have to get through all of us before that happens!" Tatsmui added. "You may be strong, but you're not strong enough to take us all at once!"
"I don't care how strong you are," Leone added. "We'll kick your ass!"
"My vengeance shall be satisfied." Raryu turned his head back as he closed his eyes. "If you wish to stand in my way then so be it."
"I can't ask you to forgive me." Najenda cut in. "I've done many things I'm not entirely proud of when I was with the Empire. That is why I deserted, to make amends for my sins and build a better tomorrow."
Raryu opened his eyes, his gaze focused upon Najenda.
"The only reason that I don't strike you down at this very moment, is thanks to your necessary role in the reformation the Empire so desperately needs." He turned around, tilting his head back so one eye still gazed upon Najenda.
"Never forget that."
Raryu turned his head back around as he walked towards the exit.
Before anyone could add on the matter, Shi approached the group. "I apologize, he's always been one to speak his mind."
"I hope this won't turn into a problem for our two groups." Najenda replied.
"We have him focused on taking out Esdeath first. After all, she did spearhead the devastation of the Ban Tribe. You were simply along for the ride."
"And what's to stop him if General Esdeath's taken out?" Lubbock asked.
Serpentine glanced at the green haired man. "As Raryu said before, he'll wait until the reformation of this Empire is complete before trying to take Najenda's life." He looked back at the latter. "Until then, you should be spared from his vengeance."
"How delightful." Najenda replied with a smile.
The next day, In the Imperial Palace...
A number of the Jaeger force had been dispatched to find any trace of Dr. Stylish. The doctor had been missing for two days now, along with his personal army.
Judging from his undisturbed lab it was ruled out that Dr. Stylish deserted. In all likelihood, the doctor as well as his private enhanced army were killed. Probably by Night Raid's hands to boot.
Everyone took it rather well, seeing as barely anyone really knew the good doctor. Everyone except Seryu, whom looked up to the doctor. Dr. Stylish was her savor, sort to speak. He was one who gave her the Judgements of the Ten King as well as installed her new arms.
Now he was gone, another she cared died by the hands of her enemies.
Drake walked along the open hallway connected to a courtyard. As he went, he noticed Seryu polishing one of the many weapons she stored inside Coro. In this case, the giant cannon.
Honestly, if the little dog wasn't an organic Imperial Arms Drake wouldn't know how the hell he stores such massive weapons in such a little body.
Drake decided to cut across the courtyard to check on the young girl. He did have to keep up appearances after all.
"You think you can manage those weapons by yourself?" He asked as he neared Seryu, the latter looked up at him and smiled.
"Yeah, Dr. Stylish's lab has plenty of materials I can use. Upgrades will be impossible though."
"Right." Drake scratched the back of his head. "Well, I'm sure you can manage without'em. You seem like a resourceful girl so-"
Seryu's composure caved in at that point. Tears rolled down her face as memories of Dr. Stylish played through her mind.
Drake took a half step back, thinking he said something wrong. "Awh jezz, you're crying now?"
Seryu lowered the cannon she was polishing. She wrapped her arms around herself as she continued to cry.
"My parents, Captain Ogre, Dr. Stylish. Everyone I care about is taken away from me." Seryu said amongst the tears. "I can't take it anymore...I just want to-"
Drake placed his right hand on top of her head. "Say no more." He patted Seryu's head. "I know exactly how you're feeling. We've both lost people we care deeply about."
Drake moved his hand back. Seryu looked up at him, tears still flowing from her eyes but she seemed to calm down a bit. The old soldier smiled at the girl.
"All we can do is honor their memory, and try to get the bastards that did took them away in the first place."
Seryu let out a snuffle, then without any warning wrapped her arms around Drake's waist. The latter was surprised by the sudden gesture, he held his hands out to his sides as he quickly looked around to see if anyone was watching them.
"Thank you." Seryu said, the tone of her voice a bit calmer than before. "I swear I'll dedicate myself to the memory of those I lost and to justice even more than I ever have."
Drake inwardly let out a sigh as he place one hand around the back of Seryu's head. He smiled. 'I guess this is something like how a father feels huh?'
The Clockwork member frowned, noticing he was starting to get attached to these people. 'Ahhhh. I need to stop. Otherwise it'll leave a bad taste in my mouth when I leave these guys.'
He shook his head fast. Then an idea popped into his head.
"If you want, I might be able to help out with your maintenance."
Seryu looked up at the blue haired man, he eyes ecstatic with joy. "Really?"
"Yeah, they don't call me the Engineer for nothin ya know?" Drake scratched his cheek with one finger. "Course, I'll need a workshop or something first."
"You could always use Dr. Stylish's lab." A chilling voice replied. "The schematics for her weapons should still be there as well."
Seryu and Drake turned to the voice, noticing General Esdeath leaning against one of the many columns along the open hallway.
"Commander Esdeath!"
"How long have you been standing there?"
"Long enough." She pushed off the column and began to walk over to them. As Esdeath neared the two, she looked at Drake with a smile. "Perhaps you have you're uses after all."
Drake raised an eyebrow as a half smile formed on his face. "Was that a compliment?"
"Don't let it go to your head." General Esdeath knelt down to Seryu's level. "I'll handle it from here. Go about your business Drake."
'Ah there it is, the bitch I've come to know and loath.' Drake spun around. He stepped away with a shrug. "Sure thing boss."
In an adjacent hallway, Wave and Kurome walked towards the courtyard Esdeath, Seryu and Drake were gathered.
"Alright! Time to go cheer Seryu up!" Wave said enthusiastically.
"And how exactly are you going to do that?" Kurome asked, obviously doubting the man's ability to cheer up anyone.
Wave tilted his head back, looking the latter in the eye.
"Doesn't matter. My mom always told me: 'If you're a man and you see a girl crying, you should do everything you can to cheer her up.' And this is one of those times."
Kurome simply looked at Wave. Not in doubt this time, but in a form of some respect. At least towards the wisdom his mother bequeathed to the former sailor.
A few moments after, the two seen Drake heading their way. The latter's head perked up as he noticed the two. "Hey Wave, Kurome. What you up to?"
"Going to put a smile on Seryu's face!"
"What he said."
Drake stopped, grinning his teeth in a smile. "Ha, you're a little late. Boss and me already took care of it."
"You're kidding!" Wave's mouth dropped. He was totally committed to helping his fellow teammate only to be beaten to the punch.
"Nope, you got horrible timing boy." Drake teased the young man.
"Man..." Wave lowered his head in disappointment. "That sucks..."
"That you couldn't do it you mean." Kurome added.
Drake paced over to Wave, tapping the latter on his shoulder. "Come on, I know what'll cheer you up. Sparing with yours truly."
Wave picked his head up. "How will that make me feel better?"
"Stress revealing." Drake smirked. "Unless you're too afraid I'll beat you ass so bad the smell of blood with overtake that horrible fish odor you have about you?"
Wave smiled. "Oh now I have to smack you around old timer."
"31 ain't old, boy!"
"Yeah whatever," Wave turned around. He along with Drake and Kurome began to walk in the other direction. "Just don't use you age as an excuse when I beat you bad."
Drake let out a laugh. "Now I need to kick you ass!"
The two laugh as they walked. Kurome let out a half-smile. These new teammates of her's were quite...interesting to say the least.
A nice change of pace from what she was used to.
One month later...
The Margue Plateau, a mostly unexplored region filled with a vast number of Danger Beast. It was here that Night Raid chose to stay and train until the Revolutionary Army could build a replacement hideout for the group, as well as send their next orders.
They stayed in a cottage house, built by Susanoo no less. Turns out fighting wasn't his only ability.
The organic Imperial Arm apparently was designed to care for VIPs, so to provide the best service along with protection he knew how to preform a vast amount of house chores along with an almost countless amount of food recipes.
For the past month, the members Night Raid had been put up against the various Danger Beasts species of the Margue Plateau. At first, several particular species proved difficult. Now, they managed quite nicely against even the toughest of the Danger Beasts.
Serpentine's host Shi leaned against a wall in the living room of the log cabin. He remained in that position most of time Night Raid spent here, the only exceptions was when they asked him to preform some sort of task or required substance. It was dull to be sure, but nothing this host wasn't used to.
The members of Night Raid were out and about, either training, gathering tonight's dinner or some other activity that kept them occupied. Hours had passed, the sun was setting on the horizon.
Serpentine's eyes glanced to one of the nearby windows. Bulat and Tatsumi were heading back from their long day of training. The pair constantly trained with each other every day, sometimes Susanoo or Leone would join them but they manly kept to themselves this past month.
The two were master and student, a bond Serpentine had witnessed through the memories of his various hosts time and time again. It was similar to how father and son bond with each other.
As the two neared the cottage, Shi could hear their voices through the walls.
"I'm really impressed Tatsumi. You're progressing faster than I expected." Bulat let out a chuckle. "Only a matter of time till you leave me in the dust."
"Hey you've been getting stronger too Bro!" Tatsumi replied before one of them opened the wooded door and stepped inside. "You can totally handle these Danger Beasts without an Imperial Arms now, I still have a way to go before I've caught up to you."
"Training went well I assume?" Serpentine said, drawing their attention.
"Yeah, today Tatsumi completely took me by surprise." Bulat smiled, slapping the latter on the back. "He summoned Incursio's weapon Neuntote before my very eyes!"
Tatsumi closed his eyes, he laughed as he rubbed the back of his head. "It's not that impressive really."
"Of course it is Tatsumi! It shows how much you've bonded with Incursio!"
"Congratulations are in order." Shi cut in. "You are truly an impressive human being Tatsumi."
"Thanks, I think."
Bulat turned his gaze to Shi. "Hey, there's a question I've been meaning to ask for some time now." The latter raised his head, giving his full attention to the ex-commando.
"I know you inhabit several different hosts, but how come you act so differently with each one? I mean you acted so innocent with that younger host we've meet before and with this one you act so calm and collected. I was wondering what's the story with that."
"I figured someone would ask that sooner or later." Shi raised one of his hands. "You see, while I have free will over my host when it comes to what I wish to say or do. However, I can only act or carry out an action in a way similar to how that current host can."
"When I take over a host body, in a way I become that person. After all, I can't more or act in a way that host isn't familiar with can I?"
"So you don't have complete control?" Bulat added.
"Only over free will and memories. Any other action I'm limited by how the host can preform." Serpentine closed his eyes. "Subconsciously, odd habits carry on. I still find myself carrying on the usual routes of my hosts, though this makes it that much harder to deduce a person under my control."
"Yeah, until they look into those bright yellow snake eyes of yours." Tatsumi added.
"Normally you'd be correct." Serpentine opened his eyes, revealing his host's unique colored eyes. "However, the people I work with developed a type of contacts that mask these odd eyes of mine. We only use them on my host's that are deep undercover or in positions to valuable to our goals."
"I see." Bulat replied. "Back to what you said before with how you can't move one of your hosts in a way they are unfamiliar with. Wouldn't it be possible to train that host into moving the way you want."
"Unfortunately no." Serpentine held out one of his hands. "When I take over a host, that host looses it adaptability humans seem to posses."
"While I can improve skills and abilities already known to the host, I cannot train a body in a way unknown to it. This doesn't mean they can't learn new techniques, it just makes it hard to come up with something, for lack of a better word, original."
Bulat nodded. "I understand now. Thanks for answering my questions."
"Of course." Shi closed his eyes. "I am here to assist after all."
More time passed, soon enough the other members of Night Raid arrived back at their temporary home. That night for dinner they had a large fish like Danger Beast Akame and Susanoo acquired earlier that day.
After they ate, Susanoo revealed why he suddenly moved when he felt Najenda's presence back at the Revolutionary HQ. Turns out she was the spitting image of his last master: A great general from times long past. A male general.
Leone and Tatsumi broke out in laughter once they heard that, only to receive a rather stinging punch from their boss.
Aside from that, Chelsea revealed her Imperial Arms: Gaea Foundation in an act of embarrassment at Mine's expense.
Literally, a make up box with various make up accessories. It allowed it's user to transform into pretty much anything. Only in appearance though, making it excellent for stealth and infiltration operations.
Thing calmed down after that, well more like once Chelsea stopped teasing Mine. Most of the members of Night Raid fell asleep some time after. The only ones out of bed were Najenda, Walker, Lubbock and Susanoo whom literally didn't need to sleep at all.
The organic Imperial Arms and Serpentine's host Shi would hang around the living room at night, sometimes engaging in one word conversation, one time they even tried playing a round of cards but usually the two silently waiting until dawn.
It was dull, but nothing this host wasn't used to.
Outside the wooden cottage, Najenda and Walker stood out in the moonlight.
It was a cold night, but then again every night here was thanks to the high elevation. They were high enough that the air was thinner than what they usually experience.
That too was part of their training, to adapt to the harsh environment.
The pair nearly stood shoulder to shoulder as the gazed upon the vast forest before them. Walker reached into his coat pocket and pulled out a cigar. He held the lighter up to his mouth, ignited it, and took a puff from the cigar.
"What do you think of the team so far?" Najenda asked as she pulled out a cigarette.
She placed it in her mouth, about to reach for her own lighter when Walker extended his own over to her. With a nod, he lit her cigarette then placed the lighter back in his coat pocket.
"They're alright. A few of them have some personality quirks though." He pulled out the cigar in his mouth and let out a puff of smoke.
"Especially that Mine girl. Seems she's set on making me her rival or something. Shouting about how she's a genius sniper and she won't loss to some hasbin sharpshooter or some crazy shit like that."
Najenda chuckled. "That's our Mine. Always loves to prove she better than everyone else at the things she does."
"Aye." Walker tilted his head to his new boss. "You're the only one I can really talk to so far, you know that?"
Najenda closed her eye as she pulled the cigarette out of her mouth. She smiled after letting out a puff of smoke. "You make it sound like that's a bad thing."
"I don't know," Walker grinned his teeth. "Especially after that whole bit with Susanoo sayin you look like a man."
Najenda turned her head towards the sharpshooter. "Do I need to knock you over the head too?"
Walker let out a laugh. "No ma'am." He turned his head forward. "Been through enough firefights to know when to keep my head down."
Najenda turned her head back to the forest. "I know. I'm glad we have someone with your experience on our side."
"I'm just a merc ma'am. I side with who pays me the most for the job is all."
"Still, it's reassuring to have the famous North Star Shooter under my command."
Walker tilted his head up. "Now that's a name I haven't been called in a long time." He pulled his head down and turned it to his left.
"Speaking of," He nudged his head to a patch of bushes and trees a far distance behind them. "That Lubbock bloke's been watching us for some time now. Clawing at the bark of a tree or so it sounds."
"That so?" Najenda tilted her head towards the indicated location. She smiled. "Well I've known for some time that man has a crush on yours truly." She looked at Walker. "Seeing you here with me must have sparked some jealousy."
"That right?" Walker smiled, he loved messing with these types of people. "Wanna fan those sparks into a flame?"
Najenda chuckled. "I don't mind." She eyed Walker. "Just don't do anything too dramatic."
"Yes ma'am." He took a side step towards Najenda and slowly wrapped his arm around her shoulders.
Behind them, the two could hear a sudden snap. No doubt Lubbock just ripped off a chunk of that tree he's been clawing at.
Najenda and Walker smiled, doing their best to keep themselves from bursting into laughter.
"Uh oh. I think that got him riled up." She said between little bursts of laughter.
Walker let out a loud snort, causing Najenda to laugh for a tiny bit before elbowing the man in his chest. "You're gonna make me laugh, cut it out!"
"I wish I can see the look on his face." The mercenary said with a wide grin. "This is priceless."
One week later...
Tatsumi and Leone were the first to exit the log cabin that morning. They headed off to subjugate a group of Danger Beasts that looked a lot like velociraptors.
Walker and Mine left shortly after that. The latter shouting about a contest to see which could shoot down the most flying Danger Beasts while the latter simply said whatever he thought would shut the girl up quickly.
Suanoo and Najenda left the house an hour later. The two took a stroll into the forest, the sounds of battle raged shortly after as the pair engaged several of the Danger Beasts lurking within.
All who remained were Akame, Bulat, Lubbock, and Chelsea...Oh and of course Shi.
With half the team gone, Pyro decided to risk getting closer to the cottage.
He deformed and reappeared by the cottage window, peaking inside. Lubbock was hunched over a chair, deeply involved in a book. Sitting on the couch next to the latter was Akame, holding her sword Muramase.
The Clockwork member moved around to the back. He stopped by the far corner, popping his head out to see what was going on. In the open field was a shirtless Bulat, holding a wooded pole. He whirled it around as the man practiced various strikes and moves.
Seeing this way was a no go, Pyro though it best to double back. Maybe he could approach from above and-
"What are you doing?" The masked form of Shi suddenly appeared in front of the latter's face.
Pyro took a few steps back in surprise, but otherwise remained silent. "I...I'm just...checking in is all."
Shi crossed his arms. "Unnecessary. I've sent numerous situation reports to Joker and Fuyu."
"Well maybe I didn't hear them."
"You were present for each one up until a week ago."
Pyro grinned his teeth. "Well maybe I wanted to see for myself ok?"
Shi closed his eyes. "Or maybe you wanted to see her for yourself."
Pyro's face blushed a tad. "Shuttup!" He almost shouted before vanishing in a swirl of fire.
Bulat, after hearing the last bit, paced over to the shinobi. "What was that?"
Shi tilted his head back. "Nothing really, just an annoying fool."
Hours later...
The members of Night Raid stood outside the cottage, all aside from Najenda, Chelsea and Walker stood aligned in a row before the other three. Najenda smiled at her subordinates.
"You've all made incredible progress over this past month." She told them. "Given the thin air in this region along with the strong Danger Beast have leveled you all up quite a bit."
Najenda looked at Chelsea. "Chelsea, what do you think of Night Raid after being with us so far?"
The latter smiled. "Yeah, there's strong. Stronger than the last team I was with."
Tatsumi and Mine let out a cheer.
"But strength isn't everything you need to survive." Chelsea added, ruining Tatsumi and Mine's parade.
"I've looked over you past reports, and I have to say I'm not impressed."
"What's that supposed to mean?" Tatsumi replied.
Chelsea looked right at the young man. "Sheele," She paused. "Whom died during a previous mission. While she may have been a 'good' person. As a killer, she was incompetent."
Tatsumi and Mine's eyes widened. The latter shouted in complaint.
Chelsea spun around, casually she walked back to the cottage.
"All I'm saying, is that if you don't get it together you're not going to see this fight through to the end."
Everyone was silent until the latter closed the door behind her.
Walker let out a sigh. "Hate to say, but the girl's got a point." He looked at Mine and Tatsumi in turn. "You have to do something about how soft you are. Unless you wanna die that is."
"Like you're one to talk tough guy." Lubbock replied. Ever since that night one week ago, this guy took every available chance to challenge Walker. Even though half the times ended with Lubbock looking like a damn fool.
"Hey," Walker held his hands up. "I'm just clarifying what Chelsea meant is all."
Lubbock quickly stepped up towards the middle aged man. "Well I like to clarify what I mean to your face!"
"That doesn't make any sense."
"Well it makes more sense than an adult dressing up like some wannabee cowboy!"
"You picking a fight with me," Walker's hands drifted down to his gun holsters. "Boy?"
Lubbock smirked. He held his hands out, lines of strings filled in between them. "Damn right I am."
"That's enough now." Najenda cut in. "Focus that energy towards something productive."
Lubbock grinned his teeth before lowering his arms. "Yes boss."
Walker let out a laugh. "You were told, boy."
A few moments prior...
Chelsea leaned on the wooded door of the cottage, feeling mixed emotions.
Serpentine's host Shi looked at her in silence for a few seconds. "That was a bit harsh." He said, breaking the silence.
"It's something they need to hear." She replied without as much as a glance.
"...I agree." Shi paused before adding. "Still, it hurts doesn't it?"
Chelsea pushed off the door and moved upstairs. Shi watched as she went, the latter not even acknowledging the shinobi's presence. Once she vanished to the second floor, Shi let out a sigh.
'Seems Night Raid has as much of a dysfunctional family as we do.'
Later that night...
Tatsumi, fully hidden from the naked eye thanks to Incursio, sat behind a large rock. He looked over at Chelsea, the latter was bathing in a natural hot spring not far from the log cabin.
Earlier, Mine dragged Lubbock and Tatsumi into a little revenge plan she had in mind for Chelsea. And the plan...Well it wasn't really a plan more like a vague idea at best.
Lubbock and Tatsumi were left on their own to figure something out while Mine brainstormed on her own part of her 'plan'.
Of course, Lubbock had the brilliant idea of sneaking up on Chelsea while she was in the bath and dump a bucket on her head. It would certainly surprise her for sure but...
And Tatsumi laid wondering how the hell did he convince himself to go through with this.
He looked over at Chelsea once more, debating on waiting a little bit more or to go for it. Then, he felt a tap on his helmet. Tatsumi turned his head.
"Hey~" Pyro grinned widely at the boy. "What yeah doing?"
"I-I was...What are you doing here!? " Tatsumi shot up, still invisible but clearly forgetting to stay quiet. "How did you even know I'm here?!"
Pyro stood up, placing a hand on his hip. "Incursio only makes you invisible Tatsumi. It doesn't hide your aura. You have to hide you presence otherwise invisibility or not you're as good as dead."
The latter's eyes widened as this realization hit him square in the face. His armor's invisibility faded, revealing the shock armored Tatsumi. A moment later, his armor vanish in a swirl of wind.
"You're right." Tatsumi lowered his head. "Ah, how could I forget such an important detail?"
Pyro placed his hand on the boy's shoulder. "Hey, don't beat yourself up over it." He smiled. "Now you can focus on finding a way to hide your presence as well as getting stronger."
Tatsumi raised his head, smiling at the Clockwork member. "You're absolutely right. I should use this as a chance to better myself!"
"That's the spirit." He lightly smacked the top of teenager's head. "Now get out of here you peeping tom!"
Tatsumi nodded in acknowledgement. He turned around and ran off, all the while forgetting to ask why Pyro was there in the first place.
"Thanks I guess." Chelsea called out to the man. "You've saved me the trouble of teaching him myself." She let out a sigh. "Kind of disappointed I couldn't fool him like I planned though."
Pyro turned toward her, his eyes darting elsewhere as the man could bring himself to look at her.
"Uh...Y-yeah...You're welcome..." He face blushed a bit. Pyro cursed at himself. Honestly, he'd never been this flustered before.
Chelsea let out a laugh. "You can look you know, I'm wearing a towel."
Slowly, Pyro glanced in Chelsea's direction. It was true, she had wrapped a towel around herself. Pyro let out a sigh, feeling a strange sense of relief. He stared into Chelsea's eyes and smiled.
"Uh, like I was saying before." Pyro rubbed the back of his head. "I'm glad I could take care of that for you." He let out a nervous laugh.
"Let's just say that's payment for all the free looks you had over the past few days." Chelsea smirked as Pyro blush in embarrassment. "Don't think I didn't notice you looking into my window at night." She added.
"That was...I-I mean...Uhhhh..." Pyro let his head drop down. "I don't even know..."
Chelsea broke out in laughter. "Wow, you're adorable when your flustered." She said between laughs.
Pyro raised his head, adding his own awkward laughter into the mix.
"But~" Chelsea grinned her teeth in a smile. "I won't forgive you for spying on me while I bathe, you perv."
Pyro blinked a few times. "Perv?"
"Next time I catch you, I'll snip it off. Am I clear?" She said while moving her index and middle fingers up and down like a pair of scissors.
Funny thing was, she couldn't do it even if she tried.
Pyro smiled before letting out a single laugh. "Right, I understand."
He turned around, about to leave when he remembered something. He turned his head back around. "Oh and before I go, there's something I wanna say."
Chelsea looked at Pyro, give the latter her full attention.
"I know underneath that 'heartless' act of yours, you really care for those Night Raid guys." Pyro closed his eyes as he smiled at his crush. "That why I think you such a sweet girl Chelsea."
The latter blushed after hearing that.
"How dare you say that about me!" She splashed the man with water. "I'm just looking out for my mental well being like anybody would!"
Black smoke started to rise out of Pyro's body. "OW WHAT THE HELL?!"
Chelsea blinked a few times. "Wait did that hurt you?"
"Well yeah! I'm pretty much walking fire, of course water's gonna hurt me!" Pyro raised his hands above his head. The glowed red before small bit of fire raced out to evaporate the water stinging him. "Damn it, you had to splash me with so much huh?!"
"Oh, well that's what you get for trying to take a peek."
Pryo lowered his hands, the smoke originating from his body turned from black to white. Meaning that the water he was splashed with was nearly evaporated.
"I wasn't trying to take a peek! I was preventing Tatsumi from taking a peek!"
"Why should I believe you?" Chelsea grinned her teeth. "After all you've been stalking me."
"I'm wasn-You know what? Forget it." Pyro turned around, waving his hand back before taking a few steps forward. "Have a nice night." And with that, he vanished into a swirl of flames.
Chelsea spun around, slowly she sat back into the bath. The young assassin let out a sigh. She looked up at the stars above and smiled as her face blushed a bit.
Meanwhile in the Capital...
In his impressive mansion, Fuyu held a pleasant conversation with Jast.
The two sat inside one of Fuyu's many dinning rooms. Up till now they only talked about small detailed stuff; what they had for dinner last night, the recent decrease in crime thanks to Esdeath's Jaegers, what current bit irritated them the most involving Prime Minister Honest. Those sorts of things.
A few minutes into their discussion, the young maid Air appeared in the doorway. She carried a tray with two tea cups, the accompanying tea pot, and a small assortment of sweets.
As she placed the tray down between the two, Jast studied her. Noticing that he never seen her around before.
"Here's a new face." He said with a smile.
"Oh, that's right. You two haven't been introduced." Fuyu held up one hand to the young pink haired girl. "This is Air; a young girl I rescued from a vile cult that I eradicated to the last member."
"Nice to meet you." She said with a bow.
Jast sat up. "My name is Jast." He held out his hand to the young girl. "The pleasure's all mine."
Air smiled, she grabbed his hand. Once their greeting had finished, Air walked to the corner behind Fuyu were she would wait in silence until her master instructed her otherwise.
Jast sat back down. "She's rather cute."
"Isn't she?" Fuyu turned his head back. "Innocent too. Which makes her all the more adorable." Air blushed in response, causing Fuyu to chuckle a bit.
A that moment, one of Serpentine's shinobi host appeared. "I have a report." He said bluntly.
Jast looked at Air. "Should she hear this?"
Fuyu turned his head back around. "It's fine," He said with a wave. "After all I told her I plan to change the Empire for the better." He looked at the ninja. "Is Pyro coming home?"
"Heading back now, but there's a little..complication I should mention."
"Such as?"
"It would seem that he has a crush."
Fuyu let out a roar of a laugh. First Esdeath, now Pyro? It was like love was a disease flying rampantly these days. "Really? And who's the lucky lady?"
Serpentine paused for a few moments before answering. "Chelsea, from Night Raid."
Fuyu frowned. "That could complicate our plans..." A half smile formed on his face. "Then again, it could give us an angle to work with. Who knows?"
"Only time will tell, right?" Jast added.
Fuyu smiled. His friend was starting to predict what he was going to say. Most people would find that weird, but Fuyu wasn't most people. In fact he found it amusing.
He remained silent for the next few minutes, deep in thought. Finally, Fuyu looked at Jast. "Do you regret it?"
Jast raised an eyebrow. "What exactly?"
Fuyu moved one hand to a tea cup. He picked it up a took a sip. "Using my Imperial Arms to manipulate Jean. Bending his mind and memories to our will."
Jast let out a sigh, he looked out a nearby. He held his silence for a few moments, looking out to the tips of trees and the seemingly dancing city lights beyond that.
"He was a broken man when we first found him." Jast returned his gaze toward Fuyu. "His family, his home, all taken before his very eyes." The politician closed his eyes. "Honestly, I think it's for the best that I made him live on a lie."
Fuyu closed his eyes and smirked. "You're the closest thing to a brother that man has." He reopened his eyes, still smirking. "Even if that bond was built upon a lie."
The two fell into an awkward silence. Fuyu reached into his pocket and pulled it out before Jast: It was a piece of paper full written to the last line.
"Here's a list of generals, nobles and other notable persons with a significant amount of power that I need you to convert to our cause or eliminate with extreme prejudice." He said as he handed the list to Jast.
"So we're beginning that phase of the plan?" Jast took the paper and carefully placed it in his pocket.
Fuyu nodded. "Steven will unavailable thanks to his play date with the young emperor tomorrow, so you'll have to make do with Raryu and the Bloodborn twins."
"What about Xein Shi?"
"He's tasked with assassinating a number of bothersome politicians who've been planning a sort of boycott against my position as Chairmen of the Senate." Fuyu let out a chuckle. "Clearly they don't like that I force them to do their jobs."
"But won't that raise suspicion?" Jast said as raised one of his arms.
"Normally yes. Which is why I'll have Xein turn himself in once he's carried out his mission, but not before Serpentine's ninja hosts plant hard evidence connecting the payment for Xein's services to my old friend Senator Nark."
Fuyu smirked as he said the last bit.
"After Xein is imprisoned and Nark soon off on his way to the execution grounds, I'll use my authority to free Xein and place him under my care, that way we will remove a number of annoyances while placing another agent within the palace walls."
"Tomorrow will be our first major operation since our premiere several months ago." Jast rolled his hands into a ball before resting his chin on it. "With Pyro playing decoy, this should go off without difficulty."
"Assuming he can keep the Jaegers occupied until we're done." Fuyu tilted his head back and smiled. "That shouldn't be a problem though. After all, he's one of the few people who can go up against my sister and probably win. Given he's inspired enough."
The next day...
General Esdeath walked the crowded shopping area of the Capital, she was accompanied by Run whom was proving to be a useful secretary as well as an excellent subordinate.
As they went, Esdeath couldn't help but search the crowd, hoping to spot Tatsumi among them. Run noticed this act shortly after it began.
"Are you alright commander?" He ask with honest concern.
"In large crowds like this, I can't help but look for Tatsumi." Esdeath answered the attractive young blond. "I hope to find him among the many faces in the crowd, though it's probably a futile effort."
Run frowned. "About that," He pulled out a list of names the young man took the time to write down. "I've identified a number of bachelors with similar appearances to Tatsumi. If you wish I could arrange a meeting."
"No." Esdeath bluntly said. "There can be only one Tatsumi." She looked up into the sky, yearning to see her beloved once more.
Run smirked. 'This is troublesome.' He thought. 'For such a powerful, sadistic woman who does the minister's bidding she's rather interesting. Originally, I though Esdeath would nothing more than scum.'
He smiled even wider. 'It might be worth it to watch such an interesting general for a bit longer.'
At that moment, a swirl of fire suddenly appeared in an open area before them. The swirl vanished, leaving a spiky haired man in its place. He looked in General Esdeath's direction.
"I've found you. General Esdeath." He said with a smirk.
General Esdeath stared at the latter, unmoved by his sudden and mysterious appearance. "And you are?"
"The name's Pyro. The man who killed that ugly ass son of a bitch called Dr. Stylish." He grinned his teeth in a smile as he pulled his fist up and clenched it.
"Pleasure's all yours."
Meanwhile, in mine outside the Imperial Capital...
A group of miners hacked into the lantern lit candle walls, picking away for any valuable minerals hidden within the rock. A low grow came from the group's left. The all turned in time to see some sort of horrid humanoid monster emerge from the shadows.
"The hell is that thing?!"
"It's some kind of new Danger Beast! Run!"
And so they ran, trying to escape the monster behind them. The beast was faster, much faster, than the group of humans. It grabbed one of the miners and bit off his head.
The Danger Beast paused to eat the rest of the human's body. The rest of the miners stared in horror, completely unaware of the approaching threat from behind them.
More of the same kind of monster seemingly appeared out of nowhere, each grabbing one of the remaining miners and proceeded to eat them alive.
A wicked laugh echoed from the darkness, originating from a dark skinned man cloaked in a brown hood. He held a lock in his right hand, crushing it beyond usage.
"Well it looks like I've obtained some interesting new toys." He said with a wide grin. "It's been so long since I've returned home. This should be rather fun!"
AND HERE WE END ANOTHER ENTRY TO CLOCKWORK IN A WAY THAT I KNOW WILL BUG SOME OF YOU READING THIS. (You know who you are:)
Somewhat fun to write this one, given all the potential ships I've created in the process.
A number of important bits in this one, especially about Pyro, along with the official names of two of the Imperial Arms I've created. (There are plenty more waiting to be revealed I assure you.)
A showdown between Fire and Ice is about to commence as a figure of ill intent moves in the shadows. Who will remain standing in this epic battle between Esdeath and Pyro? Find out next time!
