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: Hey everyone! Sorry about the longer wait than the usual but I'm back with the next chapter of this story. I'm pleasantly surprised to see that there are now over 200 favorites; it is a pleasure to know that there are so many readers out there who are interested!
As usual, thank you so much to Dracus6, SeihoTheNeko, Ultimatrix bearer, and the silver-eyed knight for leaving a review.
Dracus6: Hi there, I'm happy that you're giving me an idea to start another fanfic. Unfortunately, I haven't watched Dororo yet nor do I currently have any plans on starting another story with the two I'm in the middle of writing.
SeihoTheNeko: Once again, your feedback leaves me flattered and I thoroughly appreciate your comments as well as your patience. Yep, Akame is somewhat in control during the fight with Stylish; you can say that her more primitive side was released, though she could still differentiate between friends and foes (fortunately for Night Raid). Oh, and complications arise just after Yukio comes to realize and accept(?) his feelings. Well, this fanfic isn't filled to the brim with drama, though I couldn't exactly let the two's chemistry develop so smoothly right? ;P Don't worry too much though, given his personality, I'm sure that anyone can guess that Yukio won't get far trying to ignore Akame or take his distance.
Haha, so I answered some questions only to then bring out more. Well, I'm hoping that you'll have fun speculating and coming up with theories, as I have enjoyed listening to your thoughts as I try to make the wheels in my brain turn to conjure ideas that will keep you guessing.
Ultimatrix bearer: Thank you; it's great to know what you're thinking about the story. Yeah, the contagious thing may seem a little out of the blue, especially since I kinda just dumped it in the last chapter. Although the idea has always been there to begin with and I did give some foreshowing in previous chapters, such as Yukio going berserk against Aria's mother in chapter 5 after Akame held his hand, and again when he fought against The Three Beast in chapter 17 after Akame made a close contact with him in chapter 15. Then there is also Najenda's reaction in chapter 9 when she tried to strip Akame's bandages. Still, I guess I was lacking creativity in the manner of delivering the piece of information so it sounds a little too convenient. It's something I'll look at improving in the future.
Ah, I'm pleased to see that you remembered Kurome, considering that her Teigu is technically part of the trio too. Well, it is indeed an interesting plot point that I intend to explore later on. Oh, and maybe it may be interesting to know that back in chapter 22, there was a moment when Yatsufusa pulsated in resonance when Tatsumi first activated and donned on Incursio.
silver-eyed knight: That's actually quite a difficult question to properly answer since gauging everyone's abilities and ranking them would incorporate quite a few factors; in reality, having the greatest raw strength doesn't necessary mean you're the best. Although if I do simplify things and leave it to the basics one-to-one combat, then Esdeath would definitely take the number one spot, no question there. Bulat, Budo, Susanoo, and Hidou would also be top-tier combatants (in terms of being soldiers). But if you're considering the strongest 'assassin', then Akame, Chelsea, and Mamoru would top. And if a hand-to-hand (no Teigu) battle is being considered, then Wave, Leone, and Ieyasu would shine.
…
…
…
(Beta read by Revan the Edgelord)
Chapter 31— Kill the Trickery
"Beyond a secret...
What does swaying sadness disclose?
Touch the secret...
You can touch it and drink down the truth, right?
Reach out your hand, reach it, far ahead..."
- Choir Jail (Tasogare Otome × Amnesia OP)
Location: Imperial Palace (Training Room). Time: Nearing Noon. Year: 1024 (Day 108).
With a towel draped over his shoulders, Tatsumi grabbed one of the ends to wipe some sweat off his brows. Fast flowing currents of wind drifted in from the half-opened window and came into contact with his heated face in refreshing waves. The Vice-Captain of the Jaegers savored the blessed sensation that cooled his sweaty skin as he observed what was happening before him.
In all honesty, he wasn't sure what to make of the scene. But at present, he felt that interrupting would only shift Esdeath's attention to him. That was the last thing he wanted. As captivating as the Ice Queen was, he was reluctant to be the primal subject of her never-ending affection. His stance was firm; he had no intention of taking a wife. Yet, the reality was cruel. Their wedding was scheduled in twelve days and preparations were being made.
More droplets of sweat appeared on his forehead, formed from a mixture of anxiety rather than exhaustion. He pressed the towel to his skin. 'I'm trying everything I can think of. I try to dissuade her by telling her all my possible flaws. But she said she was going to accept all of me. I told her I already have a crush... and she responded by saying that she'll crush that crush. I even warned her that I'll run away at first chance. But she doesn't seem bothered at all. It's like she's so assured she'll catch me no matter where I go. There's nothing I can say! Nothing at all! How the hell am I going to change her mind? I don't have much time!'
While Tatsumi was inwardly pulling at the roots of his hair as he drilled deeper into his brain for new ideas, Esdeath was unaware of the teen's concerns. She stood several feet away from Mamoru on the field that was marked as a box with white lines. In contrast to the former who wore a confident smirk and gave a sense of pure self-assurance with a hand on her hip and the other on her wooden sword, the latter was as motionless as he was expressionless, with both arms hanging by his sides as he held onto his own practice weapon loosely. From their posture alone, it was apparent that the desire for the sudden spar was purely one-sided.
"Come, General Mamoru. Entertain me," said Esdeath, hoisting up her wooden sword as she would with her rapier. Her tone was uncompromising, giving off the impression of a demand that Mamoru was compelled to oblige.
The Silencer gave her his customary indifference, though there was a bit of disinterest latched on that could be perceived. Presumably realizing that Esdeath was not one to relent, he decided to supply a rare verbal response, as if hoping that would change her mind. "I don't entertain. That's General Hidou's job."
"True. You don't entertain, precisely because you're weak with your talent restricted." Whether it was because she was being amused or in contempt was questionable, but Esdeath let out a scoff. There seemed to be a sudden understanding since she tossed away her practice sword. The blade slid across the ground and slammed against the bench leg that Tatsumi was sitting on, successfully startling the boy enough that he was pulled out of his deliberations.
"Alright, now shall we?" As the last word left her lips, the Strongest General of the Empire discharged a wave of suffocating killing intent that was filled with a daunting sense of suppression. A pair of challenging cerulean eyes met unfazed sapphires, daring her opponent to act first.
Mamoru followed her example and tossed away his weapon, though he kept his aura concealed behind his inexpressive features.
Tatsumi watched as the second sword came to a stop before his boots. His eyebrow furrowed for a few seconds before they returned to their normal resting position. Comprehension struck him and dispersed the question that was forming in his mind, prompting him to continue watching in silence. It was better if he didn't interfere, he realized.
While other people might be perplexed by the scenario, Tatsumi knew that Esdeath was demanding Mamoru to take her challenge seriously. Throwing the practice swords away was a symbolism to the desire. Being revered as a genius assassin, the Silencer's ability to slaughter in an instant meant that he was unsuited for sparring. He could never unleash his true potency when death wasn't part of the equation.
In that sense, Tatsumi should've asked Esdeath to be his causal training partner. However, he did not. Personal feelings such as his indisposition for marriage aside, the new Incursio user realized that her fighting style was quite different to his. Given that his Teigu's primary weapon was the Neuntote, he needed someone who was proficient with a spear. Unlike Esdeath, who used a rapier and Hidou, who enjoyed fighting bare-handed, Mamoru had no specialty or preference in weapons. His job meant that he was exposed to almost everything arsenals imaginable, which made him more suitable tutor.
That was the reason why he had gotten up early in the morning to meet up with Mamoru for the past few days whenever his presence was not required with the Jaegers. Today was supposed to be another part of his recently devised routine when Esdeath's arrival brought it to a quick halt. Although he did receive valuable experience and the workout he wanted from the Ice Queen, the situation escalated because he had to retire from exhaustion before she could be satisfied.
"I grow bored of urging you. Come," challenged Esdeath, looking in impeccably top form despite having sparred with Tatsumi for two hours straight. "You should aim with the intent to kill. Fear not. I'll take down anything you can hurl at me."
That last part seemed to be all the incentive Mamoru needed as he lifted a finger.
Tatsumi felt a sudden shift in the air flow. But before he could determine what was happening, four thick layers of ice rose from the ground and surrounded Esdeath in all directions. Screeching sounds that were akin to running something sharp across a hard surface rang into his ears. His eyes widened and focused on the long thin scratches that ran across the miniature icebergs.
'Hoh, he aimed for my neck with no hesitation. Excellent! He hasn't lost his touch, preferring to kill rather than maim.' Pleased, Esdeath's smirk broadened to a grin. With a snap of her fingers, the shields of frozen water shattered and were instantly reshaped into dagger-like diamonds. They hovered around her, doting on her as loyal subordinates would to a queen. She flourished an arm. As if projected by cannons, the ice shards sped towards Mamoru with the ferocity of a thousand cannonballs.
'Fast and furious,' noted Mamoru. Yet, the volley of barrage never managed to reach him. A gale of wind swirled with the general in the center and drove all projectiles off course. The ice rained down, pelting the ground until it was filled with small dents. Some were even hurled back at Esdeath, though they all dissipated into nothingness upon her mental command.
"You are still sharp," Esdeath smirked. Placing a hand on her hip, she noted how all the returns were aimed for lethal areas like her heart and brain. Whereas her attack was widespread with the intent of making a porcupine out of Mamoru, his was concentrated and precise despite the extensive range his element had.
Tatsumi couldn't help but be in awe. Despite being a witness to numerous spars involving Esdeath and the Jaegers, he still couldn't get used to the inhuman level of power she possessed. The fact that Mamoru could match her display also made things appear more impressive. Against the might of nature that any human should be wary of, neither of them had moved an inch, a testimony that they were indeed in their element. Not to mention that they were refraining from using large-scale moves that could obliterate the building. To Tatsumi, their fight already felt like it was on another level altogether. But to them, it was the equivalent effort of causally waving an arm around with some concentration.
"Likewise." Mamoru acknowledged the compliment with a quick reply. Taking the Ice Queen's lack of movement as an indication that he was done here, he then spun on his heels and made his way for the door. However, he got no more than three steps before Tatsumi called out to him.
"Mamoru-sensei, thanks for your time. Are you available again for tomorrow?" Pushing himself off his seat, Tatsumi utilized the opportunity to escape some lone time with Esdeath as he stepped over the ice projectiles to follow after the Silencer. He wanted to see if this form of rejection would dissuade her. The chances were slim considering that she hadn't given up yet, though with his future hanging by a thread, he was more than willing to try anything he could think of.
Without looking back, Mamoru passed him a nod and continued to walk in a straight line towards the exit.
If Esdeath was aware of Tatsumi's intent to ignore her, then she didn't appear offended in the slightest. She took a seat on the bench that her fiancée had occupied moments ago and crossed her right leg over her left. The smirk on her face never waned as she relished the blessed surge of excitement she obtained from her short exchange with Mamoru. In the countless battles she fought, there was nothing quite like fighting someone who was strong enough to be recognized by someone of her caliber. "Heh, General Mamoru. Wouldn't you say that was an interesting session? Next time, we shall do it outside and let the potency of death drive us further. Perhaps I could even give you the exhilaration you lack."
The Silencer stopped completely, being only a step away from the opened door. Yet, the reason for his sudden course of action was not because of Esdeath's words but was rather due to a breathless Seryu charging in. Just a second away from a collision, he took a quick sidestep and pulled Tatsumi to the side with him.
Under normal circumstances, the Imperial policewoman would've been apologetic. However, there was only desperation and worry etched onto her features. Her distressed pair of ambers flew across the room and ascertained the identity of the occupants. "Captain! Sir Mamoru! Tatsumi! Has anyone of you seen the doctor? He's nowhere to be found! I've searched almost everywhere for him. He didn't even go home last night."
"The doctor? I didn't see him at all since yesterday. Then again, the rest of us came back from Mt. Fake pretty late last night. So we could've missed him," Tatsumi answered, searching his memories.
"Did he run away?" asked Esdeath nonchalantly as she popped an elbow on her knee and rested her chin on her palm.
A droplet of sweat trailed down the side of Tatsumi's face and he couldn't halt the urge to flinch. Was he simply imagining it when he thought the Ice Queen's words contained another layer of meaning that was directed straight at him? Did her lack of concern stem from the assertion that he could never escape her even if he tried? Or was she actually referring to Dr. Stylish under the assumption the doctor had fled because he couldn't withstand the Jaeger's vigorous daily training program?
While Tatsumi was bombarded with questions from both possibilities, Mamoru was preoccupied with his own suspicions. After all, he was familiar with the mad scientist and couldn't help but think that something was misplaced, especially when considering the timing of the events.
"No way! He wouldn't—" Seryu began but, in her current state of franticness, couldn't supply proper evidence to back up her claim. Fortunately for her, Run arrived just in time to come to her aid, along with Hidou trekking a step behind him.
"Captain, we've conducted some searches since this morning. While we couldn't find any definite evidence as to where he's disappeared to, we did discover that several valuable experiment materials and tools were left in his laboratory. So we assume that he didn't run away," the blond explained, his face solemn as he summarized his findings.
Hidou shuffled forward and secured a spot next to the door. With his bulky body leaning against the frame, he gave off a sense of contempt as he said, "Then that just means he has been butchered somewhere."
"What brought you the conclusion?" Noticeably discontented for once, Mamoru's eyes pierced into his fellow comrade as he inquired with a low tone.
"Aren't you a bright one," Hidou scoffed with an ooze of sarcasm. Yet, he didn't pass off the chance to showcase his intellect as he elaborated, "Look idiot, all of his enhanced soldiers are missing. You should know the ones I'm talking about. None of the soldiers came back neither so it's a high chance they were all killed in battle."
"But…" A sob came from Seryu as the Imperial policewoman hugged her mechanical arms tightly. The fact that her prosthetic limbs were gifts from Dr. Stylish only brought growing grief and terror. "A-are you telling me that… that he's gone? No… No, it can't be. First my parents… and my teacher… and now my savior! They can't all be gone!"
'Seryu. She's just like how I was back then. Honestly, even now, after everything that Ieyasu said… There's a part of me that denies Sayo's death, that I don't want it to be the truth and that I probably will never come into terms with it until I see her body for real.' Troubled by his own inner reflections, Tatsumi was at a loss of what he could do as he helplessly watched Seryu succumbed to her knees in tears. Similar to his own experience, words of comfort were hollow and the only thing to be done now was to ascertain the doctor's status. With that in mind, he whirled around to face the Ice Queen, who seemed to have gone pensive during Run's report.
"Esdeath," he called out and was encouraged when she immediately leveled her gaze with his. "I think we shouldn't jump straight to the conclusion just yet. It's still too early to call the doctor's death. There's no actual proof, no corpses or any indications. Even General Hidou can't say for sure that the doctor is dead. So we should conduct a proper search and find some definite evidence."
"Hoh, I see. This is the devil's proof. Well, assumptions and discussions are indeed meaningless at this point. I'll have nothing less than absolute certainty." Almost having anticipated such a suggestion from Tatsumi, Esdeath stood up and carried her customary air of authority. Her voice matched her posture as everyone in the room found their attention pulled by an irresistible force towards the Ice Queen. Even Seryu, who had receded into her emotional turmoil, looked up at her.
"In other words, the members of the Jaegers are going to suspend their hunt to search for a lost teammate. Didn't think you had the heart for these sort of things, General Esdeath? If I didn't know better, I would have said you're getting soft. Oh well, best of luck to you. Both of you actually, General Esdeath and Vice-Captain Tatsumi," Hidou shrugged his shoulders in what appeared to be casual dismissal. "Who knows, maybe you'll find him along with Night Raid."
Sparing Hidou a long passing look, Esdeath then proceeded to head out into the hallway as she issued her orders. "Alright. Tatsumi, go gather the others and have them assemble in the Jaeger's lounge. And Run, I want you to take Seryu into her room for now. Given her mental state, she will be excused from the meeting. The rest of us will all meet up in thirty minutes."
With that, the people shuffled out of the room until Hidou and Mamoru were left. For some reason, the Wildfire lingered behind as he watched the others disappeared around a corner. Only when he was certain that they were out of earshot did he swivel his head towards Mamoru.
Facetious azure orbs found a pair of stern eyes of a similar hue. Their line of sight was leveled, with their eyes studying each other in an apparent evaluation.
It was Mamoru who ceased their impasse by shifting his focus towards the opened door. He took several steps forward, only to be stopped by Hidou's voice as they brushed shoulders. "Where do you think going you're going without my permission? There's something we need to talk about."
"If it's about that decision, then no." His monotonous cadence was unwavering, though if one squinted hard enough, they would've been able to catch a quick flash of annoyance that manifested in his sapphire orbs.
Ever since their abrupt assault on the Revolutionary Army's camp, Hidou had been complaining non-stop about the final order he had issued. Having driven the rebels so far back into a corner that they had to abandon their camp and retreat into the neighboring forests, Hidou couldn't accept how Mamoru had given up the chase. One might assume it was out of caution that the forest was unfamiliar territory, though the Silencer was like the Wildfire in certain regard; neither particularly cared if soldiers' lives were lost. Still, that didn't mean he would heedlessly fling people into unnecessary danger. He was not the vicious sadist that Hidou was, so he ordered a tactical retreat.
"Not this time, even if I'm still pissed off that you were too much of a coward. What're a few more weaklings dead anyway?" the Wildfire scoffed, brushing the topic off for another occasion.
"Then what is it you want?"
"Hmph, I would drop the cool and haughty persona in front of me if I was you. I've thrown my cards onto the table while still keeping my ace hidden. You, on the other hand, are running out of time."
For someone who appeared to be at a disadvantage, Mamoru maintained his inexpressive countenance as he zoned in onto Hidou with a narrowing side glance. "So, you linger to confirm my suspicion?"
Hidou toyed with his plait that was looped around his neck as he let loose a derisive laugh. "You mean why I sounded so sure that he had encountered Night Raid? But one would think it's a logical deduction since hunting down those assassins is exactly what the Jaegers are supposed to do. Or are you going to tell me that the idiot wouldn't have charged straight for his death if I hadn't provided him with the incentive? That he would've dedicated some more time to devise a plan against Night Raid? Is that what your naïve and stupid little brain thinks?"
"Stylish angered you," Mamoru paused and glared at Hidou. However, the Wildfire didn't seem to be bothered at all. If anything, the smirk on his features seemed to have spread into a grin.
"Bravo, bravo. Great deduction, detective," Hidou chuckled and clapped his hands with the intent to mock the younger general.
Unmindful of the taunt, the Silencer's eyes glistened with a rare intensity as he kept track of what was vital. "Night Raid unknowingly did your dirty work."
Hidou burst out in uncontrollable laughter and had to clutch his stomach. He stayed in that position for half a minute or so before he returned to his full height. He was slightly taller than Mamoru and he used such fact to his clear advantage as he tilted his chin and regarded his coworker as inferior as a bug on his foot. "I figure you would've seen me storming into his lab. But that's hardly discriminating evidence to point your accusing fingers at me. Besides, even if you do possess something that could get me screwed, you wouldn't dare use it."
Mamoru didn't reply, though Hidou could tell by the subtle way that his jaws had tightened that he was not as unruffled as his appearance would suggest. So he persisted, keen to initiate the next phase of his plan. "Let's face it. You know you can't afford to get on my bad side now. Stylish is gone, that much I can confirm for you. You know what that means. I'm the only one who has the brains to help your precious Mariko. That scientist was on a major breakthrough but didn't manage to complete his research before his demise."
"What do you want?" The Silencer's hands clenched and unclenched under the cover of his wide sleeves. If he had possessed less self-control, then he would've exploded with murderous intent. However, he maintained his level-headedness, fully aware that recklessness was nothing more than a guide to suicidal acts.
"This could've been over quicker if you hadn't been so stubborn. Well, I don't have any plans for you at the moment. People call me the devil who summons fire. As accurate as the depiction is, even I won't intentionally make my coworker's life a living hell," Hidou snickered, as if having told a joke that was side-splitting. Contented, he patted Mamoru on the shoulder in a teasing manner before exiting from the room with a casual wave. "Just continue to be the obedient puppet you are. And when the time comes, I'll take over Honest and become the one pulling the strings. In exchange, I'll see what I can do for your sister with that idiot scientist's legacy. Pfft! Heh… Hahahahahahaha!"
Settling into a casual pace as he walked down the hallway, Hidou allowed the smile on his features to grow tenfold until it nearly split his face into half. With the Silencer added into the list of available pawns, he was setting the stage for something terrific. He could feel it inside his bones, the need to stir chaos within this dystopian era. 'This is good. Excellent even if I say so myself. Everything is going according to plan and my mole is planted deep into the enemy's core. Next, I'll need to find someone to create a diversion to give them a false sense of security. Hmmm, if I get phase C set up properly, I could also pluck that brat away from Esdeath-san. Heh, this is gonna be memorable. The excitement is gonna be a blast!'
Even though his eyes were glued onto Hidou's retreating back, Mamoru could swear that a malicious grin was plastered on the Wildfire's countenance. Contrary to the impassive features he wore, he was wrestling with emotions that he was seldom exposed to. A wave of rare humiliation and vulnerability flooded in. It disgusted him to learn that he was being played for a fool. But more importantly, if he wasn't careful with where he trekked on next, he might end up as a second Dr. Stylish. While the prospect of death wasn't daunting for him, there were things that were achievable only where one was still alive.
However, beneath all the prideful nature of a man was hidden content that lurked deep within, unnoticed by all and uncalculated even by Hidou. Even supposing that he was made to be a puppet, there was no denying that he had broken the status quo for his sister with that exchange. As malevolent the Wildfire was, he was just as intelligent. By discreetly directing his interest to Dr. Stylish's research, Mamoru had found the opening he was looking for. If he proceeded carefully, then he could grasp the ultimate objective he yearned to achieve.
In the end, he supposed it didn't matter what needed to be done or what role he must play in the upcoming revolution. So long as the desired result was obtained, all the sacrifices he made and would have to make could be deemed worthwhile in the long run. He cemented the notion into his mind, convincing himself that he was gambling with everything at stake.
There was a potential to lose everything. But there was also an equal chance to acquire the missing piece to his world.
Location: Margue Plateau (On a Lake). Time: Afternoon. Year: 1024 (Day 108).
Margue Plateau, situated 800km south-east from the Capital, was dotted by dozens of mountains that supplied the inhabitants with a unique ecosystem. With high-level Danger Beasts, it was not a place suitable for humans to reside in and despite having its general locations marked on maps, it was still considered to be an unexplored region. Having decided to exploit the advantages of the terrain, Najenda finally settled with establishing Night Raid's operational base inside one of its dense forests.
Once Susanoo had built the foundation of their temporary base, the members of Night Raid were assigned different roles in pairs. By luck or perhaps it was through Najenda's consideration, Yukio was told to scavenge for their next meal with Susanoo. Hence, it was because of such order that the young man found himself holding onto a fishing rod and sitting on one end of a small wooden boat out in the middle of the lake.
Lured by the gentle swaying motion of the boat, Yukio had to stifle a yawn. He hadn't slept at all yesterday night, nor had he been given the opportunity to catch up on his sleep. Although if he was to be frank, he doubted that he would be able to slumber peacefully while his mind was flowing with aggravated and stressful thoughts.
"Your concern is well-founded, but it's ineffective." As if connected by telepathy, Susanoo interpreted the young man's mental condition and tried to be encouraging. "It's best to concentrate on what we can do at present rather than fret about what cannot be done."
"I recall a similar phase from father." The blond ran a finger down his makeshift fishing rod, tracing the wooden surface without much regard. His words drifted to a more formal approach out of the familiarity of speaking with his former caretaker. He had chosen a casual mannerism to feel a sense of connection with those of the modern time. With just the two of them, it wasn't necessary to be conscious of how he talked. And in all honesty, such formality came more naturally for his brain to process.
"He was a wise man," said Susanoo, almost wistfully.
"How did he die?" Even supposing that he was stern and considered himself as a ruler for the people before he was a father to his sons, Yukio knew the First Emperor mostly in the later years as a broken and grieving man who wished to follow his wife in death. Therefore, while he questioned the cause of his passing, the young man had a lurking feeling that his father didn't live long after his supposed disappearance.
His notion proved to be accurate when the biological Teigu supplied the answer. "The search for you halted after a year, roughly around the time when your brother, Yuudai-dono, succeeded the throne. Not long after, His Majesty passed away in his sleep."
"I see," he mumbled, his head lowering and his bangs shielding his eyes from the rest of the world. A brief moment of solemn then descended upon the two, which the blond was glad for. He dedicated the silence for a reflection of the father who had placed all his hope on the youngest son, just so that the Empire could prosper into a paradise deprived of war and filled with happy people.
Yet, that did not happen. The youngest son never met his father's expectation and the eldest son usurped the throne.
Considering what Yukio witnessed thus far in this time, he couldn't even dare to hope that his father could ever slumber peacefully in his grave.
"…Yukio, I am counting on you." The deep voice that rang inside his head carried an emotion that he hadn't realized until now. The usually authoritative tone was lacking and was instead laced with an odd sense of reliance. The notion struck him hard and spurred his next question.
"…Do you think I failed him?"
Susanoo loosened the line and allowed the water to carry the bait further. Without turning around or halting his task, he returned Yukio an inquiry of his own. "Why do you ask?"
"Father prohibited Taimugyaku because he was wary of the dangers involved in manipulating time… because there was only one attempt. When I was freed from Shīru's curse, the most appropriate course of action would be to use Baransu to transport myself back and inherit the throne," Yukio sighed and slipped a hand into his pockets, where his finger found the smooth surface of Baransu. "Except… that wasn't what I did. I used it like this and the repercussions were something I could never imagine."
"Do you regret it? Do you believe it's a wasted opportunity?" Susanoo's eyes flickered to his side and he watched Yukio over his shoulder. The supposed second heir of the Empire sat with his legs crossed and his gaze distant. However, upon hearing his words, Yukio unknowingly straightened his spine and his pair of emeralds glimmered with an unknown passion.
"No." The blonde shook his head, sounding more assured than usual. "My intention may have been self-centered at that time. But I don't regret giving Akame the second chance she sought for… even if things didn't turn out the way it was supposed to."
Perhaps it was because he thought it was fitting, but Susanoo decided to reach out a hand and rubbed Yukio's unruly hair in an affectionate manner that imitated what a proud father would do to a son. "If that is your answer, then you should have no reason to worry. Your father once longed for you to learn two lessons before your succession. Do you know what they are?"
Since he couldn't proclaim he knew his father well, Yukio could only shake his head. That was enough for Susanoo to continue speaking in his customary flat tone.
"To possess the courage to face your decisions and to live without any regret – he wanted you to understand their significances. His Majesty had immense faith in you, Yukio-dono. He believed that you would not repeat his past mistakes."
"Father had faith in me… I-I suppose I had always been conscious of it. But I dared not dwell too long on it, fearing the responsibilities that would rest on my shoulders should I attempt to walk the path he wanted – the path of a ruler…" the young man paused, the hand on Baransu making a withdrawal from his pocket and heading towards the rod. Spinning his head to regard his former caretaker, he mimicked Mine's conceited smile. It tugged at the corner of his lips and brightened his entire features, chasing away all the uncertainties that had plagued him and leaving his pair of emeralds to radiate with determination.
Unfamiliar with this side of Yukio, Susanoo's eyes widened by a slight margin and he found himself tilting his head in some kind of expectation.
"You know, I've been awfully indecisive since the day I could remember. I've been trying to avoid making decisions and leaving them to other people because I fear making the wrong one. However, now that I've mustered the courage to reflect upon my way of life, I realized that it was nothing more than an act of cowardice. There's no meaning in life unless you make an active attempt to follow your heart, even if it means challenging the entire world. Akame taught me that with her fortitude," Yukio admitted, his hands unconsciously tightening on his fishing rod as if trying to highlight his own growing resolve. "Therefore, I've officially decided to reclaim what should be mine… It's not because I'm trying to live up to father's expectations but because I believe that this is the right choice for me to make."
"If you are resolved, then I shall support you." With an encouraging nod, Susanoo pulled his hand away from Yukio's head and his fingers curled in. He held it before the young man, who responded with by bumping their fists together. It was a humanly gesture that Yukio had once insisted he should learn. The biological Teigu was once perplexed by the significance behind such deed. Even now, he wasn't entirely sure of its purpose, though there seemed to be an unspoken implication attached, one that Yukio seemed contented with.
"Hmmm, Sheele-san was correct. There are benefits to sharing your troubled thoughts." Yukio heaved a loud sigh, easing his mind. Naturally, his worries were still not completely erased; Akame's condition was a constant cause of concern. However, the heavy pile of anxiety that was compressing onto him had lessened its load somewhat and for the first time today, his trademark grin found its way to the surface.
Additional comments didn't seem necessary so Susanoo merely nodded in acknowledgment.
With that, the two settled back to fishing and silence draped around them once more. However, the quietness was refreshing and Yukio took the moment to relish what the beautiful afternoon had to offer him. Despite being partially covered by the clouds, the sun managed to cast its rays over the white veil. Warm sunlight streamed down and generated a stunning effect on the water. The calm surface glittered with the alluringness of a star-filled night sky.
Then, the quiet was taken away when Susanoo spoke. Contrary to his typical monotone, there was an underlying hint of doubt, as if he was inwardly wrestling with a life-changing notion. "Yukio-dono. There is something I've been refrained from informing you because His Majesty prohibited it. But the circumstances have changed. You should learn the secrets of Baransu, the Imperial Arms that had tipped the scales during the decisive war that had given rise to the Empire."
"What are—" Sensing the peculiarity in Susanoo's words, it was on the tip of Yukio's tongue to probe when he felt an intense tug. Mentally cursing the timing of what he assumed was a large fish, his fingers curled around the rod in a secured position and he stood up quickly. The boat swayed from his motion, forcing him off balanced.
Steadying himself to avoid falling into the water, he immediately understood the limits of his capabilities and sought for help. "Susanoo, this one is strong. I'll require some assistance!"
"All right!" The Imperial Arms had leaped into action in an instant. Discarding his own rod and grabbing onto Yukio's, he flicked his wrists with the casualness of someone swatting away a flying insect. However, there was no doubting the amount of strength he possessed as the giant Danger Beast was pulled into the air, generating a temporary shower.
Even as Yukio was left gawking at the gigantic shape that had cast its shadow over the entire boat, Susanoo was unfazed by the size of their prey. If anything, he seemed rather pleased that there would be enough meat to feed everyone. He whipped out his weapon—the Wolf Fang Mace—from behind him. With a robust thrust, the fish was sent spiraling onto the edge of the lake, where it was rendered immobile by the lack of water.
"That's going to be a decent meal, even with Akame's abnormal appetite." Although the red-eyed assassin hadn't regained consciousness when they left, Yukio willed that she would be able to greet them upon their return. Optimism was never his strong point, though he kept his mind occupied with hopeful thoughts. If he continued to lament, then it would only worry his comrades and distract him from what he ought to be doing.
"Indeed," Susanoo nodded, before placing his mace back into its original resting position.
"And that was quite a dynamic strike. I can only imagine Aniki being capable of doing something similar. You're as amazing as always, Susanoo." Taking a moment to marvel at Susanoo's feat, the young man expressed his earnest opinion.
Perchance he wasn't programmed to be flattered when receiving a compliment because the blue-haired weapon let the remark go without thinking much about it. Instead, he drew his full attention towards the fish. Plopping a hand on his chin, he assessed every inch of the creature's body, as if trying to speculate the best way to prepare it.
"Yukio-dono." After a few minutes, Susanoo turned to look at Yukio with a serious countenance, akin to someone who was prepared for a fierce battle.
"…Yes?" The stern expression might've startled most people, but Yukio was no stranger to the Teigu's peculiar quirks. Hence, he could predict what would come next. 'Any moment now, he would say—'
"We should hurry back while it is still fresh and alive."
'…As expected.' With a comical sweatdrop dangling on the back of his head that was unknown to all but him, Yukio replaced his fishing rod with the oars resting by the sides of the boat. He handed one over to the humanoid weapon, who took it and moved to his side of the boat.
The two paddled in a steady rhythm, with Susanoo slowing down to match Yukio's pace.
By the time he had gotten accustomed to the paddling, the boat was already nearing the shore. It was at that point that something clicked into Yukio's mind and he was engulfed by a wave of curiosity. It washed into his mouth, gathering the words he needed for the question. "Susanoo, what is it that you wanted to tell me about Baransu?"
He didn't answer, which heightened the young man's inquisitive nature. Nonetheless, there was also a sense of uneasiness that gnawed at him, stirred by the Imperial Arms' odd behavior. "Susanoo, are you hesitating? Is it something… bad?"
In his current position, he could only see Susanoo's back, which unfortunately provided no answers to him. The biological Teigu remained silent, seemingly absorbed in his own musings. Just when Yukio thought that he would have to drop the subject, Susanoo opened his mouth. What came next flipped his knowledge of Baransu upside down.
"Scale Tipper: Baransu. Unlike what its name implies, it does not provide balance. Rather, it is the catalyst to distort the fabric of time. Yukio-dono, you were misled about your Imperial Arms' abilities. Baransu was never an enhancer to begin with."
"Huh? Wait… w-what?" Unsure whether to be confused or surprised, Yukio could only stare at Susanoo's back as his arms unwittingly slackened in their task. His oar was left skimming the surface of the water, creating ripples that distorted the surface's reflection. The information was being registered into his brain but the pieces weren't arranging themselves into something that was comprehensive. It was like he was listening to a story that he had heard thousands of times being narrated in another language.
"Baransu does not enhance your abilities the way you believe, Yukio-dono. It accelerates and decelerates time to give you the impression that your agility has increased."
"B-but… that wouldn't make any sense. W-what about father telling me that the abilities are dependent on the enemy? I mean, isn't this why I cannot use Baransu on other people because everyone has a different type of balance, different stats?" As if some sort of barricade was unclasped, Yukio spluttered question after question. His mind was a terrain ravaged by tornadoes that tear at the foundations of his knowledge, pulling it into a tangled mess. "Is this not the reason why he told me to activate it on myself only, to eliminate the unknown variables? Because I'm slow to act, the effects that Baransu would have on me are apparent… Isn't this how it's supposed to work?"
"No. Your reaction time has nothing to do with Baransu's effects. Unfortunately, it was all a falsehood so that you would try the possible effects on others." Now that the truth was out, Susanoo reverted to his customary delivery and uttered the brutal facts without any reserve. Taking note that the boat was as close as possible to the lake's shore, he took a small leap and cleared the shallow waters between the transport and land.
"I… Are you telling me that my father lied to me? But I thought you said he had placed his faith in me. If so, then why did he find it necessary to lie to me about my Teigu? I don't get it… Isn't this contradictory? I don't get his reasoning no matter how much I try…" There was a need to chase after Susanoo and receive some answers so the blond immediately tried to follow suit. However, he underestimated the distance between the water and the solid ground. The back of his boots found slippery mud and he would've toppled backward if Susanoo hadn't made a grab for his jacket and pulled him upright.
"Please calm down," the Imperial Arms advised, releasing Yukio's sleeve once the blond regained his footing. "You're letting your emotions hinder your thought process."
His words proved to be adequate when Yukio took a deep breath in an endeavor to calm his raging mind. He was just a step away from falling into his customary routine of doubts and laments when he had just recently reaffirmed his resolve. 'Calm down… That's right, calm down. Demanding answers like this isn't good. Logic is panic's prey. I can't lose my focus now, even if the things I'm hearing are ludicrous.'
He flicked his muddy boots with a careless shake. The brown muck lingered on the back of his footwear, though he was beyond caring about something as insignificant at this point. "I'm sorry… but I'm having trouble trying to distinguish the truth from the lies."
"In other words, what Yukio-dono wishes for is proof. I understand. I'll tell you how to reach this truth that you're struggling to accept and eradicate all the lies that have been misguiding you." With that said, Susanoo then proceeded to give Yukio a set of instructions. "First, please take out Baransu."
Yukio obliged and held his yoyo-like relic up for Susanoo to see. The metallic surface of the Imperial Arm glimmered from the sun, almost in anticipation of whatever revelation awaited its master.
"So…! Ah, a twist here… and a turn there. Then another tilt… And spin that clockwise…!" Given how meticulous the biological Teigu was, the young man had braced himself for a set of very specific instructions. But never could he have predicted how stressing they were to follow, even as Susanoo slowed down and articulated each word with great precision.
Sufficient to say, he had no clue what he was doing. Yet, he followed every single step to the letter, adamant to discover the 'truth'. He didn't want the 'reality' that had been a part of his life to be nothing more than a deceitful tale. He wanted what his father told him to be the truth, even if it meant branding Susanoo's words as a sick joke. Alas, when he twisted the side-cap for the last time, he was met with a sight that crushed his hope.
The metallic layer that covered Baransu's side flicked upward like a covering for a lid, revealing a clock underneath. Rotating around the Roman numerals with a pacing that was unlike a usual time-telling device, the three needles continued to turn at their own speed silently.
Yukio's face was filled with surprise, his eyes widening at his own reflection from the glassy surface. With the evidence cupped in his shaky hands, there was no rebuttal that he could use to deny what he could now affirm was the truth. "I-it has the design of a pocket watch. Was it… was it disguised as a yoyo so that I would unknowingly wind it up? Thus giving it the power it needs for acceleration?"
Susanoo nodded and only opened his mouth to speak once he felt certain that Yukio could cope with more information. Even if he wasn't in tune with human emotions, he was equipped with enough knowledge to know how delicate a human's mind could be. If he wasn't careful, he could reach Yukio's breaking point. But since the blond showed no signs of an emotional outburst, he decided it was safe to proceed. "But while the disguise is true, I'm under the impression that His Majesty conjured the lie not to deceive you but to protect you and the country from those who would do wrong."
"I see... You're telling me that he had kept Baransu's true abilities confidential so that it would not become an object of desire for anyone else. I think I can understand." Perhaps it was because he had been through quite a few pressurizing ordeals in the past few months, but Yukio's brain managed to assemble Susanoo's statements without too much trouble. Honestly, such a feat would've been unfeasible for him when he had just arrived in this era. But with all that he had accumulated, he supposed this revolution wasn't exactly terrifying or detrimental now that he could calmly think. The concept of his Imperial Arms might have changed, though that wouldn't affect how he was supposed to use it. All in all, it simply meant that there was a greater potential inside Baransu that could be extracted and that it wouldn't 'change someone else's balance' as he was first made to believe. "Even so… can you tell me how you drew such a conclusion? Can you be certain that this is what my father had in mind?"
"I cannot. I'm only speaking with the consideration that even Yuudai-dono was also misled to a certain degree."
"Onii-sama was too? So what does Shīru do if it isn't meant for sealing?" asked Yukio, his interest piqued. His thumb fiddled with the relic's lid, flicking it open and close. Apparently, after he had worked out the mechanism of the trick, the component that his father had kept hidden for centuries was now easily assessable to him. Irony at its finest, he couldn't help but think.
"Baransu and Shīru were deliberately named to be deceptive. Their abilities are in fact the opposite of what their names imply. Yukio-dono, you and your brother were unknowingly chosen by the Teigu that could manipulate time and space respectively. As I've mentioned before, Baransu distorts rather than provide balance. And Shīru releases space, not seal it up."
"So you're saying that I was actually trapped in a suspended space that my own brother unwittingly created instead of—" There was the intention to say more, though Yukio halted himself the moment he detected someone's approach.
"Hey, you guys!" The urgency latched within the husky tone captured the receivers' immediate attention. Two heads concurrently turned to the same direction and were just in time to see Bulat clear the last pile of the rocks with an astounding leap.
Although he had anticipated something of grave importance, Yukio couldn't prepare himself from what left Bulat's mouth next. Each word cut straight into his eardrums and the meaning screamed alarm bells inside his spinning mind. Once the key message was delivered, the young man sprinted off with a speed that he had never displayed before, all the while ignoring Susanoo and Bulat's calls.
In his haste, he had forgotten all about accelerating with Baransu as he used the strength of his own body to carry him back to their newly established base – a large cottage that Susanoo built. Careening as if his entire existence was hanging by a thread, his arms frantically brushed away all the dangling leaves that got in his way and his legs propelled him forward with each anxious step.
He reached his destination in a record's time and shoved opened the front door. Disregarding Chelsea's confused shout, he rushed up the stairs two steps at a time. He passed the first three rooms before stopping at the fourth. Under normal circumstances, he would've knocked first as his modesty demanded the polite act. However, he was in too fraught to think straight so he barged in without a second thought.
The door flew open as he pressed half of his weight on it. In that instant, he sensed two presences in the room move.
"Akame!" he shouted, much or less out of breath. Not allowing his heart any time to regulate its rate, he lifted his head and captured every part of the room with his darting eyes. His vision skimmed past Sheele, who had stood up from her chair, and continued to wander until it at last found the subject of his interest.
Akame stood a few feet before him, once again conscious after her long slumber. The sight should've brought Yukio immense joy. Yet, he found neither the heart nor spirit to force a friendly smile on his features upon noticing the odd manner that the raven-haired girl was staring at him. It was an expression that he thought he would never have to be the recipient of ever again. It was what she gave him back when they were at the cave, one that was filled with weariness and the slightest hint of curiosity; it was the look of a stranger.
As if that wasn't confronting enough, Akame inadvertently nailed the coffin with her inquiry. After having a full exposition from Susanoo about how his life as a Teigu user was nothing more than a lie, it was ultimately the girl who he had come to treasure that made his world collapse.
"Do we know each other?" she asked, tilting her head.
That was a loud clamor that sounded like a thunderclap echoing inside Yukio's head. Then everything crumbled away, drained of all color as he stood there, devastated.
12 days left until Tatsumi and Esdeath's wedding!
Night Raid Members Remaining: 10
Mission: None
The Four Present in the Capital: 4
The Jaegers Members Remaining: 6
This section is dedicated to recapitulating the relevant plot events. Here are some things that can be reviewed over or considered for this chapter:
-Mamoru has been relying on Stylish to keep Mariko's condition stable (as seen in chapter 24) and with the doctor gone, he has no choice but to turn to Hidou.
-According to Hidou himself, his plan is moving on to phase C. His scheming has been ongoing since chapter 24 and he is waiting to reap the rewards of his patience. Some of you may have an inkling as to what he's going for; to confirm your suspicions, phase A involved him using the captured Yukio as a tracker/lure to bring Stylish to confront Night Raid, which ultimately ended in the doctor's demise. This enabled him to settle the long ongoing rivalry he had with Stylish, gain the research materials that were left behind as well as obtaining leverage to use against Mamoru. As for the rest of his elaborated plan, that is still up for speculations!
-Yukio has been lied to about the ability of his Teigu. This explains why he could never use Baransu's ability to affect others (as it was never meant to do that it the beginning). Also, this gave some foundations as to why Baransu could be used for Yukio and Akame to travel back in time.
-As Susanoo stated, Baransu and Shīru were deliberately named to be deceptive. Baransu (balance) can upset the flow of time with its trump card. The primary effect of Shīru (seal), although it can be used for sealing, is supposed to be releasing/creating space. With time and space being the elements for manipulation, it is no surprise why the First Emperor would want his sons to hold onto the two Teigu without knowing what they really are capable of.
-Oh dear... it seems that Akame has lost her memories. The reason behind this seeming cliché (trust me when I say I did not do this for the sake of romantic drama) point runs deeper than what can be taken at first glimpse. Here's a hint; there're some critical parts to solving this mysterious amnesia somewhere between chapters 20-30. Also, there're implications thrown in somewhere in this chapter too.
…
Preview- Kill Your Memories: Tatsumi and Esdeath confront each other on the intricacies of their conflicting principles and future lives. At the same time, Yukio asks his teammates for advice on how to interact with the current Akame.
Esdeath: "Why did you run, Tatsumi?"
Tatsumi: "Dammit! Can't you be reasonable for once in your life?"
Sheele: "Well, I think that knowing fear is necessary. It keeps us grounded in reality. But if you become too scared to pursue something that you believe deeply is worthwhile, then that's when I think you should fear yourself."
Chelsea: "It won't work, not for you at least. If you're stronger, then maybe. But as you're now, you'll die once you let your emotions run wild."
Yukio: "That's because I don't expect what I feel to be reciprocated."