Disclaimer: All characters from Akame ga Kill that appear in this fanfic rightfully belong to Takahiro. I do not own anything; I have Takahiro to thank for that.

Author's Notes: Alright, I'm here once more to deliver all of you another chapter. The second arc is going to hit its climax in a few chapters and I'm having a lot of fun laying out some foreshadowing for the past few months. Well, what I'm trying to say is that there're clues scattered throughout this arc that will be mostly unravelled in this, if not the next, arc.

I'm pleased with all the speculations that are going on thus far. Seeing how some readers are gathering the pieces together is really motivating, as I have created a fanfic that is worth the engagement.

Also, I would like to give a special thank you to Ultimatrix bearer, SeihoTheNeko, and Commonwealth1991 for the thoughtful reviews provided. All your feedbacks are very much appreciated.

Ultimatrix bearer: Thanks for your reviews, which are definitely amongst the earlier ones. ;) I'm glad that you enjoyed the fanfiction reference. I couldn't help but sneak it in, though it is somewhat ironic since Ieyasu really isn't the main protagonist here.

Ieyasu: This is all your fault! You guys took the spot! Dammit! _

Tatsumi: I've always been the main protagonist for the series. ¬_¬

Yukio: So you two are shifting the blame onto me? T~T

SeihoTheNeko: Yep, Yukio is back after being left in the shadows for a couple of chapters. Well, he was being sneaky so I guess that's why he's been off the spotlight (haha, excuses…). And we can already guess that Akame will be pleased to see him alive.

Before coming to the Capital, Ieyasu is stronger physically but Tatsumi has improved by bounds after joining the military while Ieyasu focuses on the art of assassination. So yeah, Tatsumi's win is pretty much set the moment Ieyasu thought he could best his friend with brute strength. Haha, having Ieyasu win shounen-style was a tempting thought but I resisted. I'm glad that you found the outcome acceptable. :)

The confrontation was inevitable, especially since both of them were emotionally stirred by Sayo's death. Ieyasu just let it slip that he is with Night Raid, though to be frank, he's too direct and honest to keep it a secret for too long, especially when things came to Tatsumi.

There are reasons for having Tatsumi know Ieyasu's secret so early. Aside from the fact that Ieyasu is bad at deception, given his character, I also wanted to avoid the cliché of a close friend not knowing your true identity until much much later on. More importantly, it sets Tatsumi on a path of deliberations.

Commonwealth1991: Fate is indeed a terrible obstacle that our casts will have to face. Although funny enough, most men (like Lubbock) would probably envy Tatsumi for being a chick magnet. It's just too bad that said 'lucky person' wants to remain single, at least for the time being.

I think you're right that Leone would've gone for a sly and indirect approach… but under the circumstance that she is the one directly involved. So in other words, if Leone herself was trying to show affection towards Yukio, then she would've approached it by first teasing the young man but never probing too deeply. However, in that scene, Leone was trying to get Yukio closer to Akame since she knows that the former is the only one who the latter could share about her time travelling secrets/future concerns with without needing to worry about creating more paradoxes. So I was trying to capture the essence that Leone is worried about Akame's mental health, as noted in chapter 19. That's the main reason why she did what she did.

I might have said it before but fight scenes are indeed one of my weakest parts in a narrative so it's always great to hear suggestions for improvement from the readers. Thank you for pointing out the potential effects dialogues may have on the flow of the scene. I'll take all that into account the next time I construct an action scene.

Yeah, I agree on you with the capitals. Usually, I tend to place emphasis on what a certain character is doing and/or the expression being shown so I was thinking that the dialogues themselves may pale in comparison. Hence, I was trying to experiment with the effects of capitalization and I might've overused the format a bit, perhaps even exaggerated the dramatic impact of the confrontation. I'm going to see how I can tone it down in the future. Definitely appreciate you telling me your honest opinion of it.

Ieyasu was too temperamental, even if he was trying to control it somewhat, for the confrontation to end nicely. And it doesn't help that killing and Night Raid have become quite sensitive topics to Tatsumi since coming to the Capital. Moreover, the timing of Ieyasu's delivery about his identity was horrible, since Tatsumi was highly strung after hearing about Sayo's death. So things heated up, fast… And if you ask me, I think it's actually quite fortunate that those two didn't start another fight in the middle of the street.

Once again I thank you for your honest opinions on the chapter. Your points are very noteworthy and they will assist me with future writing.

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(Beta read by Revan's Wraith)

Chapter 26—Kill the Dispute

"Cut through the time, the darkness, the lost, and the fate.

Even the inconsistency, even the irrationality, and anything.

Shine above us, o Shimmering light.

Even if we are destined to stab each other,

As I stand, I'll see you by my side.

I am not certain if the thing I saw that day was a dream.

Yet, I wonder if everything my eyes saw is reality."

- Jyoumei no True Force (Seirei Tsukai Blade no Dance OP)

…

"Exposed in a flickering instant that flew by too fast.

I can't reach anything alone.

These mere wishes and fading words.

Can't get us anywhere by themselves.

Though I fixed my eyes right on them,

I've still lost sight of the stars.

But their light remains, and no one can steal it."

-INVOKE (Gundam Seed OP1)

Location: Imperial Palace (Esdeath's Bedroom). Time: Night. Year: 1024 (Day 106).

'Why Ieyasu? I understand what you're trying to say. You believe that my eyes are blinded. That I can't see the darkness of the Capital… But Ieyasu, is darkness the only thing you can see?' With a weary heart, Tatsumi paused his brooding to cast his gaze towards the closed window. His eyes beheld the stars that twinkled high above the skies of the Capital. 'I know how corrupted this place is… Still, I can also see the hidden light that exists in the hearts of some here. Bols-san and his happy family. Seryu going to the orphanage and playing with kids. Ran offering to teach part-time at an old school. Mamoru-sensei donating to the medical research. Wave's village and the established trades with the Empire. Esdeath's army patrolling the borders to keep the people safe from invaders. All these things are things you can't see, like those clouds blocking out the stars.'

The sound of the running shower was still going strong, though it was hardly a distraction to the countless thoughts that entered his head. 'The Empire isn't beyond repairs… It isn't just filled with scumbags that need cleansing. Why do you think that killing is the only means of salvation? There is enough blood spilled already. So why are you creating more? There has to be a better way. I just need more time to find it. But you just won't give me that chance without accusing me of wrongdoing.'

The regret that he didn't manage to convey his thoughts to Ieyasu bit deep into his heart and he insouciantly inclined his body backward, throwing himself down onto the soft sheets of the large bed. Immediately, a delicate scent of a certain woman whiffed into his nose and he temporarily forgot about everything else. With his face glowing red, he jolted back up and was relieved when the owner of the bedroom didn't come and push him back down.

"What's with the sullen look, Tatsumi? It doesn't suit you at all." The shower's door creaked as it opened and closed, followed by the alluring voice of the Empire's Strongest.

'What am I supposed to say at the moment? That I'm a nervous wreck because you called me into your room at this time? Or should I start complaining about Ieyasu's stupid decisions that are gonna get him killed one day?' Tatsumi's eyes dropped to the carpeted floor and he bit back the sarcastic questions.

"Tatsumi, answer me when I demand it." Due to presumably having just indulged herself with a drizzle of steamy water, her volume was no more than a soft whisper. Even so, the authority latched onto her tone was overpowering.

At that, he looked up to speak, only to then gawk at what he was presented with. "A-ah! E-Esdeath! What… what the hell are you wearing?!"

There, standing no more than a few feet away from him was the Empire's Strongest General in her white pajamas. Perchance he wouldn't have been as bewildered if her choice of clothing was less revealing. Clad in nothing but a single-layer long sleeve, Esdeath was exposing more skin than he had ever seen before. The clothing gave the outlines to all her curves in a way that was impossible with her general attire. Her buttons were only done up to the midriff, exposing a huge proportion of her ample breasts. More importantly, he could tell that she wasn't wearing any undergarments as she ambled towards the bed with her eye-catching legs in full view.

Heat rushed into Tatsumi's face. He wouldn't be surprised if his nose started bleeding. Still, a curious observation made itself known inside his overheating brain. It was amazing how the general's skin could remain unblemished despite her years on the battlefields. But sure enough, that simply meant that no one was strong enough to leave a permanent scar on her. In short, her power was definitely something to be in awe of.

"As adorable as you're being right now, I still want my question answered. Tatsumi, you should know I hate repeating myself," said Esdeath firmly. In a relaxed way that would've made many erroneously believe that was she now vulnerable to an ambush, she lowered herself down onto the bed. There was easily enough room for all the Jaegers to be seated, though she took pleasure in closing in the distance between her and Tatsumi.

"Sorry… but it's nothing. Really. Just a little argument with Ieyasu. He wasn't happy that I took the prize money." Knowing that he was on thin ice in this regards, Tatsumi had no other alternative but to respond, even if it was a lie that spouted from his lips. It wasn't easy to be deceptive, especially when the recipient was someone as insightful as Esdeath. Nonetheless, telling her the truth was out of the question. He might find Ieyasu's stupidity to be disdainful but the possible act of betrayal was not something he would ever want to commit.

"I see," Esdeath nodded in understanding, accepting his words without any noticeable doubt.

Tatsumi shuffled a little in an awkward manner. Frankly, what did that tell him about her devotion?

A comforting smile settled on Esdeath's features and she closed her eyes. "Ease yourself, Tatsumi. Do not let your worries impinge on you tonight. I do wish to spend some eminent time with my fiancé but not when he is low in spirit."

"Eh? S-shouldn't we do this after marriage?" He automatically left out the pronoun our in hopes of drawing Esdeath's attention to the new topic. As troubled as his mind was, he wasn't going to let the opportunity of convincing Esdeath go untouched and allow her to steer the direction of their interaction, even if the current priority had shifted from his freedom to proving Ieyasu wrong. 'You said that I'll chicken out at the end. Well, now we'll really find out how wrong you can be.'

Unfortunately, Esdeath didn't seem to have picked up on his intention. A tinge of red materialized on her cheeks, giving her an impression of a lovesick teenager rather than the awe-inspiring general she was. "You really are adorable. Then again, I'm not quite sure what to do in this situation either. But I'm sure we'll figure it out once we permit our desires to take over."

"Permit our desires to take over?" Tatsumi reiterated, his tongue brushing the dry roof of his mouth. 'Damn, this isn't going where I want it to go.'

"I'll demonstrate." The Ice Queen's face came close to his and she inched forward before he could react.

"…!" Tatsumi's eyes widened as their lips connected. Somehow, amongst all the rushing torrents of astonishment, came a stronger emotion that begged for the teen's attention. Something deep inside of him, something more primal, probed him to indulge himself. He obliged and reciprocated by parting his mouth, all the while studying the general's fascinating countenance.

Esdeath's eyes were closed and her eyelashes were inches away from his skin. As possessive as she was being, the kiss didn't feel over-dominating. Rather, it was like she was inviting him to take some initiative.

A foreign sensation stirred from the enticement as strength built itself from within Tatsumi. His right eye momentarily flashed red and a marking made its way to his pupil, though the oddities all vanished without a trance when the teen looped an arm around Esdeath's head and pulled her down with him.

As the two plunged into the soft coverings, with Esdeath saddling on top, Tatsumi's tongue ventured outward and danced with its partner. What came afterward was pure euphoria, followed by a pleasurable aftertaste moments later when Esdeath pulled back, her luxuriant blue tresses spilling around him.

"Not bad. So this is what it feels like." With one hand resting on Tatsumi's heart, Esdeath could feel his nervousness directly as his pulse quickened. As if trying to match the tempo, her own heartbeats accelerated in response to her overflowing excitement. Her head inclined and her tongue flicked out and ran up Tatsumi's neck.

"Esdeath." Tatsumi almost whimpered, his breathing becoming the more erratic as the general continued to draw a wet trail on his warm skin. With dilated pupils, he watched as the general arched her head up, only to lick the corner of her lips. The motion was ravishing and deliberate, done to tease the inexperienced teen.

"What the HELL was that? Why are you, of all people, getting married?! And to that crazy battle maniac! What's wrong with your taste in women? So not cool!" Ringing in his ears were Ieyasu's words. They manifested as a bucket of freezing water that chilled Tatsumi's bones. His mind grasped onto reality and trampled over his teenage desires. He shoved Esdeath back, with adequate force that she had to adapt to a seated position.

"Tatsumi?" A momentary confusion flashed across Esdeath's features.

"I-we shouldn't be doing this…"

"And why not? We're going to be wed. There shouldn't be any problem with some little intimacy. It's good practice."

"Our marriage is the problem. If we do get married, I'm going to be even more tied down to the Empire than I am now. Isn't that right?" Tatsumi utilized the opportunity to address both of his main concerns.

In response, Esdeath nodded but said nothing else. He took that as a gesture for elaboration. Hesitation briefly materialized inside his brain and he wondered whether or not it was a good idea to be candid? Should he really be delving into the particular topic with Esdeath? Would the Empire's Strongest care? Perchance if she did, then the Capital would've ascended to glory or fallen due to her sadistic ways. Still, he tried his luck, if only to appease his troubles. "It's been a while since I started to have second doubts about the Empire. It's not really the paradise I want it to be."

"What we were—what you are—trying to fight for is a complete hoax! The Capital isn't the paradise we dreamt of when we were kids. It's hell, I'm telling you!" Ieyasu's words haunted him like a nightmare that wouldn't disperse.

"Esdeath, why do we fight for the current Empire?" In order to quench his reservations, Tatsumi decided to test the Ice general. Getting her option on the issue could either solidify or eradicate his beliefs, though he only needed one outcome for some assertion. Still, he dared not tempt fate with direct questions so he went for a less straightforward approach. "I mean, the Revolutionary Army seems to have a more plausible reason for fighting. I heard that the rebels are trying to free the Capital from tyranny so that everyone can live ha—"

"Tatsumi…"

By the time he realized that her countenance showed that of morose, it was too late to prevent the general from landing a hardcore slap to the side of his face. The sound echoed in the room and his face strung from the impact. Placing a hand to nurse his red cheek, he noticed the glare that Esdeath had directed at him.

"Tatsumi, you do realize that you are speaking to an Imperial general," she stated matter-of-factly.

"I know that my words sound ridiculous to you. But if I stay as I am then we may end up as enemies!" he more or less shouted, frantic.

"So this is what all the brooding was all about. Your friend wants to join the Revolutionary Army," the Ice Queen inferred, making a mental note of the pronoun Tatsumi used and his change in demeanor.

'So he is affected by his friend's decision but is still tentative in regards to siding with the rebels. Perhaps I was being a little too hard on him, not knowing the reasons behind his foolish claims.' Feeling a rare sense of remorse crawling into her heart, Esdeath allowed it to dictate her action. Seldom would she allow pity or regret, which she deemed were signs of weakness, to take over. But there was no one else who could see her uncharacteristic display of compassion, save for the man who she was madly in love with. On that note, she leaned forward and licked Tatsumi's cheek, as if that alone could lessen the pain enforced from her slap.

"Esdeath…" Tatsumi stiffened but didn't recoil.

"Tell me, Tatsumi. Are you afraid of getting hurt? You don't want to betray your friend but you feel abandoned. I understand that you've had a hard life. But from now on, I won't let anything or anyone hurt you. All your fears and uncertainties, I will pluck them out from their roots." Shuffling back a little and kneeling on the bed, Esdeath allowed some time for Tatsumi to digest everything before continuing, "And I won't seek out any other lovers. You're the only man for me. I will lead you and you will never feel lonely or abandoned again."

"I'm happy that you would go to such lengths for me. You trained me, promoted me, gave me new powers, and now you're even offering me a future by your side. Out of all the people you could've picked, you chose me… But it's still no good," Tatsumi uttered, his gaze down and his bangs shielding his face. "It's not that simple. This isn't just about my happiness."

"Are you concerned for your friend? I'll arrange for a search and place him under my protection. Even if he has joined the rebels, I have the power to spare him from any punishment. "

"That'll be great. But that's not what we want. Being safely sheltered means nothing to us if everyone else is suffering. We want a nation where everyone can live their lives as they see fit. And that can never happen unless something is done to change how the Capital operates. With how it is now, with the Empire preying on the weak, there won't ever be any peace."

"Tatsumi…" Esdeath's tone was unrevealing and her face was unreadable. Even so, there was no doubt of the ominous air that surrounded her.

"Y-you understand, don't you?" Tatsumi perked his head, mentally bracing himself from another slap. Fortunately, Esdeath merely sat up straighter and pressed her two hands onto the bed's surface behind her.

"I do not understand," she bluntly replied, catching Tatsumi off guard. "I told you before. I feel no empathy for the fragile. Nor do I have the intention of sowing the seeds of harmony the way you want. War exists to differentiate the strong from the weak, the healthy from the ailing. An edgeless blade and the wish for equality contravene the universal law of survival of the fittest. They're meaningless."

"Meaningless? There's no way I could possibly love someone who thinks that way!" Tatsumi exclaimed and stood up on top of the bed, inwardly grateful that the ceiling was still far above his head. As he flourished his right arm to the side, his other hand reached for his heart. "If you truly have feelings for me, then I beg you to change your principles! It doesn't have to be this way. The strong shouldn't draw a sword to kill the weak or kill for the weak. The strong should raise their shield to defend the weak! That's what I wholeheartedly believe in!"

'Even that expression is nice!' Awestruck but not delusional, Esdeath swiftly rose to her feet. Now half a head taller than Tatsumi, she took the position of dominance and pointed an accusing finger at the boy. "That won't happen. Don't misunderstand the nature of our relationship. You aren't the one who will change me. You are the one I shall change. That's all there is to it!"

"I refuse to believe that that is all there is to it," Tatsumi retorted, crossing his arms in an act of defiance.

Esdeath scoffed, "We've spent some time together, Tatsumi. So tell me, when did I ever allow you to take control over my actions? There were times when I would indulge you. But everything I did was according to my own pleasure and satisfaction. I certainly will not have it any other way."

"And I certainly can't do things your way. I'm no one's dog to be led around on a leash."

"Don't tempt me. I can arrange a collar specifically for you."

"I'll never wear it. Not even if you torture me or drag me off to the guillotine." Puffing out his cheek like that of a little kid, Tatsumi turned his face away, not wanting to look at the woman before him. Given that Esdeath seemed placid, he figured that luck was providently on his side for tonight and decided to remain obstinate. Against General Esdeath, a quick submission might've been the best option. Yet, giving up was not something he was willing to do. "If things can't work out for the both of us, then maybe I should go and request the emperor to cancel our marriage."

"Heh, you dare pressurize me into your ways? So headstrong." An enlivened smile descended on Esdeath's lips. She placed both hands on her fluttering heart, unable to contain this tempest of foreign emotions. It was apparent that Tatsumi was not afraid of publicizing his opinions, regardless of the possible consequences. 'He's fearless and optimistic. Perhaps that's exactly why he can smile like that. I want to see that smile again. All these feelings make me want to possess all of him. In that case…'

"Well, I'm sure you're left exhausted after today's events. We will discuss this again later." Sitting back onto the bed and pulling Tatsumi's gaze back on her, she thought that she ought to halt their conversation. Admittedly, both she and Tatsumi were willful and no understanding was going to be reached if they persisted. Calling off their disagreement as a temporary draw—a very lenient deed for someone like her—she gestured for Tatsumi to take his place beside her. "For now, let's rest."

"Huh? So we're done for today. Okay… Then, I'll head back to my room." The gloominess was substituted by an air of awkwardness as Tatsumi tiptoed stiffly towards the door, having figured out what Esdeath's intention was.

Retreating into his bedroom seemed like an uncomplicated task, considering how his new quarters was right next door. It previously belonged to the heavy-built General Nouken, who was in the foulest of moods when he was ordered by Esdeath to relocate himself. Tatsumi had never seen the man again, though he supposed he would rather face his wrath if it meant he could get away from Esdeath's bed.

Unfortunately, his escape fell short when he was grabbed by the arm and yanked back towards the bed.

"No, we're sharing a bed tonight. I understand you're tired so I won't do anything else tonight. So just sleep in the bed with me." As if reading his thoughts, Esdeath coaxed Tatsumi to lie supine and was pleased when the boy didn't try to bolt. Then again, he probably realized that it was futile to run when her mind was set like stone.

Not taking any chances however, she turned on her side and wrapped an arm and leg around his body. Landing a soft kiss on his collarbone, she closed her eyes and allowed all of her senses and even her dream to be taken up by Tatsumi's presence.

Location: Imperial Palace (The Jaeger's Lounge). Time: Morning. Year: 1024 (Day 107).

"Ugh! Not again!" exclaimed Wave, his hands clutching his hair in utter exasperation. The young member of the Jaegers had his blue eyes glued onto the chessboard on the center of the table, with his expression bordering hopelessness.

The reason for his dramatic reaction was none other than the outcome of the game. At one corner of the black and white board, his white king was isolated and surrounded by several black pieces, effectively putting him in the position of checkmate. While he was never strategic to begin with, suffering five consecutive defeats against the same opponent was a more than adequate blow to his confidence.

Raising his head to look at the victor who had beaten him fair and square, Wave slipped in a congratulating smile as Run drew close towards his opponent's chair.

"I must say that was very impressive," Run commented thoughtfully as he studied the pieces' arrangement.

There was a faint tinge of red noticeable on Bols' mask as the older man chuckled timidly, "No, no. It was just luck."

"Bols-san, I can't believe this is actually your first time playing," Wave sighed, crocking an eyebrow at the muscular man. The sailor took a sip of the tea placed in front of him, acting as though it was a form of consolation. Despite being the one who had suggested a game as a pastime, he didn't think he would spend the morning on a losing streak, first to Run and then to Bols.

"I suppose Bols-san is a natural at this game." Run made a casual remark that managed to deepen the blush on Bols' face.

"I guess that must be it, right? I mean, I tend to play it with the crew members on long voyages but I've never gotten myself around to a professional level. I must lack skills in this department." Not afraid to admit his shortcomings, Wave merely gave a dismissive shrug to hide his discontent. Plopping a hand to his chin and resting his elbow on the round table, he played with his white king, twirling the piece around the board as if it was his dance partner.

"Hmm, I wonder if it's because Wave's moves are too predictable," mused Run out loud, to which the sailor grimaced.

"Don't sell me short like that. It's you guys who are above the average people," Wave protested, though his furrowed brows relaxed upon recalling the short time that Yukio accompanied him. Because the young man's injuries, they avoided any strenuous activities and chose chess as a means of killing time while on the waters. Yukio was phenomenal at playing the game, capable of utilizing creative strategies that would constantly limit his opponent's moves. Try as he might, Wave couldn't figure out a way to emerge victorious, not even once during their dozens of games. "You know, I think I've broadened my horizon a little more. There sure are a lot of talented people in the Capital. Bols-san is the third guy to have beaten me at the game recently."

"Hmm, did you play with the doctor or Tatsumi?"

"Nope. He's a nobleman that goes by the name Yukio. I was gulping like fish on land when he completely dominated the playing field. He's so good it makes you wonder if he had spent half of his entire life memorizing known strategies, creating new ones and perfecting each of them."

Run hummed in thought, a finger on his chin as he gave a pensive look. "Well, that is quite interesting. While I must say I would love to face this Yukio-san you speak of in a game myself, I do have to wonder why he would place such dedication in a mere form of entertainment."

"Um, is it true that an exceptional tactician is also an experienced chess player?" Bols asked his fellow Jaeger members, though he was looking specifically at Run. "I heard that somewhere. Maybe the young man wishes to join the military. Could that be the reason why he is dedicated?"

"I don't think it's the same. In terms of similarities, premeditating your moves and protecting your pieces are assured means of guaranteeing success. However, I believe things are much more complicated on the battlefield. There are many other factors that contribute to a win," Run explained, giving the impression of a teacher educating his students in a classroom. Slowly, he began counting his fingers, supplying his teammates with a list but was careful not to over-cram them with the information. "Some of these include available arsenal, troop morale, weather, terrain, and so on."

At that, Wave studied the squares on the chess board. Looking at it now, he could definitely say that it was a lot simplified when compared to an actual war zone.

Run continued, "In a real war, soldiers aren't as eager when it comes to sacrifices. Most of them have a family back home and therefore won't be as willing to forfeit their lives unless it's to a great cause. It's all part of the human nature and any commander would be wise to never overlook such a thing."

That was something Wave could comprehend. Pinning was amongst the most common moves used in chess but was not highly regarded in a real war. After all, a good commander ought to devise a strategy that would have as little casualties as possible. "But doesn't that just prove that not all professional chess players are brilliant tactician?"

"That's correct. For instance..." The sound of something crunching followed the phrase in the background as everyone else turned to take in the speaker. Sitting on a lone chair in the corner of the room was Kurome, who was munching on her snacks. Unlike before though, she didn't resort to ignoring the others completely and had her dark eyes fixed in their direction. Had the others been closer, they would've noticed a shimmer of amusement dancing across her usually emotionless eyes. "General Hidou is a strategist of transcendent reputation. But you cannot find anyone who is more irremediable than him when it comes to chess. In fact, I heard that he cannot distinguish a king from a queen."

"Oh, Kurome-chan! I'm sorry that we didn't notice you there. Why don't you come and join us over here?" Although his face was masked, Bols' voice projected genuine remorsefulness. He and the others were so caught up in their game that they didn't notice when Kurome had slinked through the door, a feat exclusive to her role as an elite assassin.

"And risk smelling like the ocean?" Kurome's eyebrows shot up to deride Wave. Somehow, that seemed to be her new founded hobby lately. "No thank you, I'll rather not."

"Huh? Seriously?" Bowled over by the news rather than Kurome's critical tone, Wave took a sniff of his own armpit to confirm things for himself. He detected nothing abnormal but assumed that it was because he was so accustomed to his own scent. "Wait, I smell? I showered this morning! Do you have something against the ocean?"

"No, nothing at all with the ocean," Kurome uttered, her tone acerbic, "It's you who I have problems with."

"What did I ever do to you?" The defensiveness in Wave's voice was apparent, as he stood up and slammed both hands onto the table.

For all his efforts to bond with Kurome time and again, the girl seemed to reject him with repulsion. It was difficult to assume from appearance alone that Kurome could be so unmoving, even when he gave his hardest to become friends with her. Either the girl was an introvert or she hated humanity. While he was beginning to think it was the latter supposition, something inside of him begged him to reconsider the former. 'Alright, one more try can't hurt anybody. If she's engaging in a conversation willingly, then she has to be in a good mood… Well, as good as her generally pessimistic outlook can bring out.'

"Come on, you haven't even given me a chance yet," he argued, "Who knows? Maybe I'll come running and save your ass one day."

"You say slick things like that. But you'll probably hold us back the most," Kurome said bluntly, shrugging her shoulders in what Wave assumed was a silent laughter.

"Are you saying you don't trust my skill?!" Wave, feeling a vein pop in his head, was just about ready to march to Kurome and deal with her nose to nose. Just what was with this girl? All he wanted was to become acquainted with her by having a decent conversation like ordinary friends. Yet, she insisted on being cynical. 'The last time I knocked on her door and asked for a moment, I ended up with a katana pointed at my throat… Is being friendly really that much to ask of her?'

"It seems pretty obvious. I feel when we need you most, you'll be weak." This time, there was no doubt of the mockery latched onto Kurome's voice.

"If I equip Grand Chariot—"

"Then show me how strong you are." Displaying a semblance of an unadulterated smile, Kurome stood up and grabbed her katana resting against the wall. Her eyes glistened with a forbidding intensity as she exposed a fraction of her weapon's daunting steel to light. "Prove to me that you are not the idiot who will be our first casualty."

"Ohh, bring it on!" Pumped, Wave was prepared for the challenge. He ardently pounded his fists together, a fearless grin inching towards his lips. He supposed he should've adopted a more forceful approach in the first place, to prove to Kurome that he was no pushover. If no amount of talking could get through to her, then perhaps his fists would. It's was not exactly a friendly method but it could be effective depending on the intended target.

Looking at Kurome, Wave thought that his aggression might have its appeal. This was the first time that he saw something other than mockery and indifference coming from Kurome. Her barely perceptible smile was a welcoming change and he realized that the assassin actually had some sort of anticipation.

They would settle their differences with a spar.

That would be the ideal solution…

But it was too bad that not everyone shared the opinion.

"Please don't fight, you two!" As the oldest member excluding Dr. Stylish on the team, Bols felt the responsibility of keeping the team together. Grabbing onto Wave's shoulder with one hand, he held out his other hand to pacify the situation. "Everyone, let's discuss everything peacefully, alright?"

"Bols-san is right. Even if you two have a good reason, you don't want to face Great General Budo's wrath for destroying the palace." The unenergetic voice was kept in chorus with the soft click of the closing door as everyone's attention was pulled to the speaker.

Several eyebrows went above hairlines at the sight that was presented to the occupants of the room. With his shoulders hunched and eye bags visible beneath his drooping eyes, Tatsumi stood before them, lacking all of the supposed bearings for a vice-captain.

"Whoa, Tatsumi? Didn't you get enough sleep?" Under Tatsumi's permission and request, Wave had dropped the formality and shattered the quietness that shrouded over them upon Tatsumi's sudden entrance.

"I was so nervous, I stayed awake until the sun came up," replied Tatsumi, stifling a yawn. Choosing to be vague with his answer, he was hesitant to disclose the real cause to his restless night. As impactful as being in close proximity to Esdeath on the same bed was, it was somehow easier to assimilate than the weird dreams he had last night.

Perchance he was still stressed out by his current state of affairs with Ieyasu, as his sub-consciousness last night was infested with scenes of his childhood friends being tortured and drugged. He dreamt of Sayo dangling in chains, her bare body broken and lifeless while Ieyasu was slowly dying from the effects of a deadly virus. Although he knew that the reality he was presented with yesterday partly contradicted what he dreamed about, it was still too disturbing and realistic, especially the parts about Sayo.

"Huh? You were nervous? Why?" asked Wave, arching an eyebrow.

"Esdeath was using me as a body pillow," Tatsumi muttered.

Before Wave could comment on it, Esdeath strolled into the room and cut off their conversation. Whereas Tatsumi was insomniac last night, the general gave an appearance of an invigorated person who was blessed with extra hours of sleep. Strolling in with feminine posture and majestic dignity, she spared each of her subordinates a look before addressing her lover. "Tatsumi, we're heading to Mount Fake. We'll be hunting for the next few days. Let us settle any qualms and dissatisfactions there."

"What's Mount Fake?" It was a brainless question to any of the inhabitants of the Capital but being a foreigner that Tatsumi was, he was still learning the names of places that surrounded the outskirts.

"Mount Fake is Fake Mountain, of course." There was a blank look on Esdeath's face as she adjusted the cap that was on her head, almost as though she was explaining the most obvious thing in the world to Tatsumi. Then, freeing herself from her mild exasperation, she turned to address the rest of her members. "Alright, I've decided that everyone present here will also be going. We'll hunt Danger Beasts while keeping an eye out for enemies. Every now and then, we'll exchange partners so that by dusk, we will hopefully have developed better coordination with each other."

"Roger," all members of the Jaegers said in unison.

Location: Close to Night Raid's Hideout (Forest). Time: Dusk. Year: 1024 (Day 107).

Something felt wrong.

Covering his tracks, Yukio proceeded through the forest with as much caution and agility that was feasible for someone injured. Although he willed that his instincts were wrong, the unsettling feeling lingered even after the tournament. He had hoped that it would fade as he neared Night Raid's hideout, though his uneasiness only intensified the closer he got.

He supposed the reason was rather simple; there were no traps around to obstruct him. Lubbock was not one to slack off when it came to their base's security. Therefore, he couldn't help but feel undaunted when he couldn't find even a single thread of Cross Tail.

'I'm checking all the feasible locations… This doesn't look right.' Determined to prove his own instincts wrong, Yukio picked up speed, having decided that covering his trail was less pressing than returning home. His pair of emeralds darted frantically around, scanning for anything that he could've possibly missed. The green forest and the orange sky were the first things prominent to him, though what he was searching for was still nowhere to be found.

After about a full thirty minutes of scampering through the forest, the young man was left breathless as he came to a small clearing. Exhaustion compelled him to slump down onto a fallen log, using the dead trunk as a seat. Baransu's abilities had reached its limit and he was left with an unresponsive Teigu, aching muscles, and throbbing wounds.

With a tired sigh, he pulled out his Imperial Arms from his pocket. He flung the relic down but failed to pull it back up. Mentally cursing how stiff and sore his fingers were, he rewound the string and attempted the action again. 'Now that I'm handicapped by my injuries, I've realized how silly Baransu's design really is… Whose idea was it to make playing with it the only means for a quick recharge? Man, I guess the creator never considered what would happen if the wielder's fingers are hurting—Owww, it really does hurt… Hmm, huh?'

All of a sudden, he felt something coming.

Tensing, Yukio leaped up and prepared for flight when something tackled him off balance. His head narrowly missed the log and instead touched grass strands. Familiar with the beast-like pounce and his less than dignified position on the ground, he felt a sense of relief and lowered his guard.

"Ouch. Nee-san, as gentle as you may think you're being, it still hurts whenever you do that. I don't have the recovery ability that you're so proud of," he said, having figured out that getting up was impossible when Leone was saddled on top of him. Not that he was going to openly voice his thought, but the combination of Leone's strength and weight was enough to pin down men thrice his height. It was sufficient to say that Yukio wasn't going anywhere unless Leone released him.

"Ah, my bad, my bad. I got a little too excited when I smelled you." Leaping off, the woman's fangs protruded from the corners of her mouth, showing exultant in a way that resembled someone winning a lottery. "So everything went well?"

"Yeah."

"Good! Come, let's get you back home and you can file an official report on this…" Leone trailed off, scratching her head with a mixture of disbelief and confusion. "Jeez, did I really say that? I sounded like Akame for a sec."

"Hmmm?" Yukio hummed, not in a hurry to leave the ground when his body felt like shattered bones.

There was a small pause, followed by a pout from the woman. "Our serious little vice-leader is rubbing on me, isn't she?"

"Nee-san, I think your high-spirited personality is still intact… But more importantly, did something happen to Lubbock? I couldn't find any of his traps around." His voice grew softer as he forced the inquiry out of his throat.

The typically optimistic Leone lost all signs of her mirthful attitude and averted Yukio's gaze. There wasn't any need to say anything since the soundless message was clear, effectively causing the young man's pupils to dilate.

"How?" rasped Yukio, inwardly beseeching for a miracle to happen. If no one saw how Lubbock perished, then there could be a minor chance that the Night Raider was still alive. It was a pitiable form of hope, though he grasped onto it tightly, relying on it to preserve his sanity.

"Around the same time as your disappearance, Lubbo was murdered by the bastard Hidou. Akame was the one who came back with the report." Leone's ears slumped down when she saw Yukio visibly flinched, as if his worst nightmare had just become a reality. Having been in the assassin trade far longer than Yukio, she had far better control over her emotions than the young man. Capable of holding back her own grief, she elaborated, "But she managed to avenge Lubbo. The bastard is buried six f—"

"No, nee-san…" Terror was welling within Yukio as he jumped up and seized Leone by the arm. Despite his sorrow and pain, there was something inside of him that screamed out the single fact that he instinctively knew was the truth. "Hidou is still alive!"

"What? Are you sure?" demanded Leone with an edge of hostility in her voice. Her sudden change in demeanor intimidated Yukio, though he nodded as he let go of her hand.

"...Yes." Although sniffing, he somehow managed to sound a lot more confident that he actually was.

"That bastard really likes to play dead, doesn't he? Thinks he had us fooled," she growled with the ferocity of a caged lion hungry for food. She flexed her furry paws as a touch of anger raised up in her golden eyes, only to be controlled by a mental vision of herself pummeling Hidou mercilessly. "Damn him to hell! I swear I'll personally grind his heartbeat to a halt the next time I face him!"

So wrapped up in their own emotions, both Night Raiders were caught off guard when a shadow burst from the covering of the forest's trees, noiseless even amongst the fallen leaves. With fortune being lenient, they noticed that the newcomer wasn't an enemy. Instead, they saw a face framed by long, straight hair. A pair of crimson orbs shifted from Leone to Yukio, and softened upon landing on the latter.

"Akame," Yukio called out to her, unaware that his forlorn expression was being overwritten by a small smile.

Akame made no indication that she heard him while wordlessly moving towards the duo. As his eyes were drawn to the female's light movements, Yukio didn't pay Leone any heed and found himself being shoved forward. He stumbled and shut his eyes, bracing himself for an impact with the ground. The pain never came; someone stopped his fall. With a pounding heart, his eyes fluttered open and he saw that Akame had wrapped an arm around him, effectively catching his fall.

"T-thank you," Yukio stuttered and instantly took a step back, which earned him a snicker from Leone and a bemused look from Akame. Neither of their reactions was regarded as he felt like heaving a loud sigh of exasperation. 'Man, I wouldn't have minded as much if our roles were reversed. Ugh… why do I get this feeling that if this was a scene from some fantasy story, I'm the one who role plays as the damsel in distress while Akame is the knight in shining armor? It's so pitiable that I can't even describe it with words.'

Lost in his own world, Yukio didn't notice that Akame was stripping him until he felt a light breeze touched his bare back. Repressing a shiver, he stared wide-eyed as Akame removed his layers in record time. In that instant, his arms wandered in every direction in an endeavor to cover his exposed body. More concerned than mortified, Yukio was more than ready to flee when Leone grabbed him by the shoulders to hold him in place. At any other time, he would be impressed that Leone caught on to Akame's intention with a single glance. Although at present, he was more afraid of what the raven-haired would say.

"Uh, A-Akame… I'm o—" His voice died away, unable to muster the courage to say anything when the evidence to contradict his words was right before Akame. He resisted the urge to gulp when the girl couched down.

Suspected in midair was Akame's left arm, with the raven-haired assassin torn between the decision of undoing the dressings to check the extent of his injuries and the knowledge that she might aggravate the wounds. She eventually lifted her head to regard Leone in a silent confrontation.

"Don't look at me like that. I never stripped him down to his boxers. I couldn't tell how bad they were so I took his words at value." Leone gave a helpless shrug, as if exasperated that she was fooled by Yukio's 'I'm fine' act. The truth was the opposite though, for her enhanced senses didn't miss the strong stench of blood. However, she had kept quiet about it, understanding that it would only worry Akame more.

"Um… they'll heal, and I'm not in that much of pain… so I er, am feeling better?" Averse to telling a lie, Yukio could only conclude his sentence with uncertainty. It sounded nothing like a reassurance. Nevertheless, it was the best he could manage despite how much he loathed the fact.

"That's not the issue." Akame shook her head, her crimson orbs drifting towards Yukio with a tinge of sorrow. "I've seen comrades who died of infectious wounds because they weren't honest about them."

"I... I got them treated. Wave-san, from the Imperial Navy, did it," the young man said, inwardly berating himself. Why did his words always manage to have the opposite effect to what he desired? But at the very least, he knew he couldn't tell Akame how disoriented his memories were or risk losing credibility of his own condition.

"Wave?" The name evoked an image of a blue-haired man who was present on the night she killed Kurome. While she knew close to nothing about his character, just the fact that he'd cared enough to intervene with the sister's fight spoke volume.

"Yes," he nodded, mildly curious. The discreet way in which Akame's brows were narrowed alerted him that she was drifting in between the present and her memories.

"I trust you, so I won't pry further. But let me help tend to your wounds later." For now, Akame decided to drop the issue and returned to her full height.

"Okay..." There was a part of him that disliked the word that left his lips but he nodded nonetheless. It was a compromise that Akame was willing to reach.

Letting out an inaudible sigh, Yukio accepted his clothes from Leone and took a minute to slip them back on. As he pushed his arm through the sleeve of his western tuxedo, he realized that the garment had seen better days; there were holes and tears on the fabric. Inwardly, he thought it was a miracle that Wave actually believed he was of nobility when the clothing was actually secondhand. 'Well, I did pinch this from a wardrobe that belonged to a very rich target.'

"…I was worried when Leone told me you went out to investigate alone. It was tempting to come looking for you." In a rare display of public affection, Akame divulged her inner fears to Yukio. Although she had faith in the young man's promising growth, she was not so imprudent to think that he was guaranteed safety. One single misjudgment would've been jeopardizing.

"Akame…" Yukio was moved, knowing that the female assassin was very reserved when it came to her emotions. Stoicism was how she conducted herself and her assassin training had limited her display of emotions, though the latter was gradually being reformed as she spent more time with Night Raid. In short, he felt content knowing that Akame was showing her humanity, without the properties that designated her as a killing machine. "It's comforting to know that you got my back. But… it also makes me feel useless, having to rely on you all the time."

A sense of déjà vu hit him concurrently with the hand that Akame dropped on him. Yukio cringed, grabbing his head. Once again, he felt like cursing his height; this was one of the many avoidable situations if he was taller.

"I believe we've been through this already; you are not a burden," admonished Akame, though the smile that had graced her features informed Yukio that angry wasn't the suitable adjective to be used. In fact, what she said next confirmed his supposition. "Besides I'll always come to your aid. After all, we're friends."

Despite the reassurance she offered in her sentence, Yukio's brows clandestinely furrowed without his knowledge.

"We're friends? Seriously? Is that really the best line you can give, Akame?" Leone sighed. The response was probably the best they could expect from someone like Akame. With a comforting tap on Yukio's shoulder, she decided that she had wasted enough time. "Well, if you two ain't gonna get a room together then we can just go back and organize a homecoming party for Yukio-kun or something."

"A homecoming party is certainly convivial, given that there'll be a lot of meat… Alright, I approve." As expected, Akame reverted to her glutton self and was completely oblivious to Leone's implications.

Leone and Yukio both exchanged a knowing look, with the former shrugging a helpless shoulder.

Casting a glance at the sky while being careful not to look directly into the sun that was low on the horizon, Akame predicted that they had an hour or so before nighttime. Not that such trivial matter bothered her, for she was more productive when concealed in the darkness. However, there was the matter of covering their tracks, which was definitely easier when there was still light. "You two should return. I'll stay and cover up our trail."

"Hold on a sec, I'm calling the shots for once," Leone said, grabbing Akame by her jacket's collar and stopping the girl from leaving. A coy smile crept its way up her lips and her golden eyes were sparkling with enthusiasm. "Tell you what, you two head back first and leave the rest to me."

"Are you sure, Leone?" asked Akame, "It's my shift now until the evening."

"Change of plans. I know you're done with the cooking but don't you think we'll need more on the plate for tonight? You two should scurry off. Get something good on the way back," Leone unshed the two by pushing them in the direction of the base. "Oh, and remember to get Ieyasu… Nah, actually go and tell Mine to grab me a few more of the usual. She should know what I mean."

"Yeah, I can do that. But I'm the one who left the trail, shouldn't I be the one to clean after it?" asked Yukio as he looked over his shoulder and at Leone.

"It's fine. Now, scurry along," said Leone as she gave the young man a meaningful wink.

Interpreting the message, Yukio nodded and mouthed a heartfelt appreciation.

"Yukio, give up. Once she's made up her mind, Leone always gets her way regardless." Whether or not the unspoken exchange went unnoticed by Akame was a mystery, though Yukio couldn't find out as the female assassin left the clearing straight after.

"As expected, Akame knows me so well. Better go after her, Yukio-kun. She's gonna leave you in the dust."

The statement was indeed well founded because as impassive as Akame tend to be, there was one thing that could kindle her zeal unfailingly. Anyone who knew the female assassin well enough was able to discern the iridescent sheen currently within her eyes. Her footfalls were faster and lighter, evidently motivated by the thought of meat.

But for Yukio, that meant another challenge…

"Man, she's like miles ahead! Baransu is still recharging… A-Akame, wait up!"

Night Raid Members Remaining: 8

Mission: None

The Four Present in the Capital: 4

The Jaegers Members Remaining: 7

Author's Notes: Wow, after a good majority of this arc (that being 10 chapters), we're finally getting our two main protagonists back together. It feels great to be writing about Akame, especially since she hasn't made an appearance since chapter 19.

Also, you've probably guessed already but we're now going to redirect the focus back to Night Raid for the next couple of chapters. So hopefully, you guys will be ready for some more assassins in action.

But more importantly, please feel free to provide your thoughts and opinion on this chapter. Reviews, regardless whether they're compliments, suggestions, criticisms, or questions, are all very much welcomed as they will serve to motivate me as I continue writing.