(Episode 4: Justice for Whores!)

It would soon be the end of May as Francis and Oda had in the time since defeating Lieutenant Caceres to focus on unlocking the various brands of Haki, as well as hitting another one of Iokal's whorehouses. Which on the former was coming along with varying degrees of success, as unlocking either Observation or Armament just in its beginner stages was a rather arduous process, but nonetheless both were determined to do so for the potential of further overcoming their enemies.


(May 30th, 1176 I.E, Fallujah, Western Carnifex Imperium, 2:10 Pm)

It would be a bit after 2 in the afternoon as Francis and Oda were at a Shrawma place in the city of Fallujah, discussing their next move regarding one of Iokal's whorehouses in said city.

"I'm not gonna lie, Oda. I underestimated how hard it was gonna be to learn Haki...I figured it was going to be a cake walk, but apparently it is a lot more complex than I thought it'd be!" Francis said as he ate some of his chicken shawarma

'Fuck me, sideways, they made this stuff look easy.' Francis remarked to himself

"I agree, soldier, but look on the bright side…Once we do have access to it and mark my words we will. Then their won't be anything that we cannot overcome." Oda Nobunaga replied as she at her grilled beef shawarma

"By the way, this is delicious!' Oda Nobunaga further spoke enjoying said meal

"Hey, I told you this stuff was gonna be great!…Have I steered you wrong yet?" Francis asked his servant

"No you have not, and I am all the more proud of you for it. It is nice to work alongside someone that actually knows what they want to do, and is straightforward nonetheless." Oda Nobunaga spoke as the two continued to eat their meals

"Thanks, and trust me once all this is over. I plan on taking a nice break from everything to focus on our next move…As much as I love breaking up this Iokal guys' stuff, I do want to take some time for myself to relax and figure out where we go from here." Francis replied in hopes of taking a mini-vacation after taking down Iokal

Because, as much as Francis was down to take down people like Iokal for being just the absolute worst in his eyes, and those associated with him; even he had his limits despite being a superhuman who was going at this alongside his sharpshooting companion for over a month straight. Hence why he was putting it in the books that the moment this whole hot mess was over that he was going to go somewhere nice, and chill out for a spell; so he could both relax for an extended period of time, while also figuring out what else he was gonna do in this weird new world.

"I will admit that it does sound like a good idea...While I am all for the action of destroying our enemies, and crushing them underfoot. Even I will admit that having a break will be nice." Oda Nobunaga spoke in agreement with the idea of a future vacation

"Glad, you feel that way, Oda. Because, oh boy do we have a lot to think about once this is all over." Francis replied

"Indeed, we do. However, if I may suggest something, that would be prudent of us to do going forwards. Especially regarding the enemies we will be facing against in the future." Oda Nobunaga spoke as Francis paused his devouring to listen

"Shoot!" Francis said all ears

"Once we deal with this latest in the long line of whorehouses Iokal has. That we should summon forth another into our ranks…While I am happy with what we have done so far, even I must admit that there is only so much the two of us can do together. Which is why a 3rd party into the mix would help greatly." Oda Nobunaga suggested to the redheaded Gamer

"Huh, that's actually not a bad idea. Plus with how things are going at the moment, we are gonna need all hands on deck." Francis spoke knowing that with the danger level rising that they would need all the help they could get

'Especially, with whoever this General Esdeath person is…If I'm gonna need Advanced any Haki to be on equal playing field with them. Then they gotta be a tough customer.' Francis noted to himself in regards to the mystery Genreal and his Haki quest

"However, we do need to be wary of the fact of who or what we will bring too our side…As far as I know, the chances of who you summon are completely randomized, soldier." Oda Nobunaga spoke

"Pretty much. Whenever I decide to get something from whatever gives me my powers. It basically acts like a lottery system...but on crack. I could get something really cool like a ring that grants me 3 wishes, or something really lame like a rusty bowl of mushroom soup…So honestly, Oda, its anyone's guess on who were gonna get if I do this." Francis replied in regards to the randomized nature of the system

"However, and I can't stress this enough. If we get a total nutjob out of this, we kill them immediately. Because, the last thing I want to do; is unleash a total psychopath on the world, just because we wanted another pair of hands on deck." Francis further spoke regarding on if they got someone like the Joker or Blackbeard from One Piece

"Fair enough. The very last thing we need is a loose cannon running around." Was the militant sharpshooter's response

"Hey, as long as we're on the same page, then we are golden…Because no amount of help is worth getting mixed up with a complete lunatic." Francis spoke back as they continued their meal

"Agreed…Now then, after we are done here. I say that we begin our preparations to take that whorehouse down, and do more Haki training?" Oda Nobunaga suggested

"Sounds great to me, Oda." Francis replied as the two continued eating their meal

However, in the far North where one of the Empire's most terrifying soldiers in General Esdeath and her regiment were succeeding rather well in their continued push against Numa Seika's rebellion, as she was about to begin her torture/interrogation of one of Numa Seika's men when she sneezed.

"Is something wrong, sir?" One of Esdeath's soldiers questioned

"I'm fine, I just have the sneaking suspicion that someone is talking about me." Esdeath answered back as she returned to looking at her torture implements

"Understood, sir. In the meantime, what do you want us to do with the rest of the prisoners we've captured?" Asked the soldier in question

"Simple. Put them in chains for now. Later on they will have the choice of either being put to work as labor, or be executed. Either way, they will be bled dry for every ounce of information they have." Esdeath answered back as she picked up a pair of pliers with a cruel menacing smile

"Now then, I think its time we get started. Ensign, make sure that they don't bleed out too quickly, I want to hear their suffering for a long, long time." Esdeath spoke as smile turned absolutely predatory


(4 days later, Fallujah, 8:44 Pm, June 3rd, 1176 I.E)

Meanwhile, in the next set of days that would pass did Francis, Oda, and an unexpected 3rd party in an Imperial police woman named Seryu whom after overhearing them requested to aid them in their efforts of taking down the warehouse full of who knows how many corrupt officials.

"Thanks again for wanting to help us, ma'am. You know you don't have to go out of your way to help us, right?" Francis said to the brunette policewoman
"Of course, as a guardian of Imperial citizens; it is my sworn duty to bring those that are evil and corrupt to justice! Which is why it would be a great disservice to the people within the empire, to not help you and your friend, Mr. Holyfield!" Seryu said back excited to help out

"Alright, and remember Miss. Seryu. We bring down the bad guys here and rescue the women that are being forced into this against their will. Because, as far as I'm concerned; this cannot happen again no matter what." Francis said to the brunette before him

"So I am asking you again, Miss. Seryu, and I need you to be completely honest here…Can you make sure that they get out of there safely and to a good place? Since I want justice for them being put in this predicament in the first place, and I am trusting you as a person of the people to make sure this happens. Otherwise, this will have all been in vain." Francis further spoke as Seriyu nodded

"Don't worry, Koro and I will see to it that they are brought out safely, and these corrupt men are brought to justice!" Seryu swore to Francis

+7 Reputation to Seryu Ubiquitous for having her join you and Oda to bring Justice to the corrupt officials in Iokal's whorehouse. (13/100)

"Great, great, great... Alright, I'll get started on blocking any exits they could use to make a getaway. In the meantime, you and Oda get started on any last minute prep." Francis said as he left the militant sharpshooter and excited guardswoman to themselves

"Before we begin, Office. I would like to know why you chose this profession, as a fellow former soldier. I am curious as to why you chose it…that is if you don't mind my asking?" Oda Nobunaga questioned

"Both of my parents were part of the Imperial military. My mother currently serves in the Imperial Navy as an officer... My father...My father unfortunately died in the line of duty fighting against the Revolutionaries…Which is why I chose to enlist to honor their memory!" Seryu enthusiastically answered back although their was a somber pause in regards to her father

"That is a very admirable reason to serve your country." Oda said as she finished the last-minute checks on her rifle

"What about you? Why did you serve your country's military…at least before you joined with your red-haired friend?!" Seryu questioned whilst feeding Koro dog-treats

"I had joined in hopes of unifying my homeland, which I accomplished through many, many years of war against our nation's enemies. It was an incredibly brutal and torrid affair, but one that I alongside my countrymen were able to valiantly claim victory over!...Trust me, officer when I say that it was a momentous affair when we crushed our enemies underfoot and unified my home under one banner!" Od Nobunaga answered back in vivid memory when she had claimed leadership as her countries' shogun

"That sounds incredible! You must have been an incredibly skilled soldier to do that!" Seryu spoke

"Indeed, I was, and through my leadership my country was able to flourish to heights that would have made the prior rulers green with envy…My only regret is that I did not live long enough to see it come to pass." Oda Nobunaga replied her voice regretful towards the end of her boasting

"What happened that you couldn't live to see it?" Seryu asked

"I cannot say, as it is a subject I have not even told my companion about. All I can say is that it is one that saddens me to this day…But it is one that nonetheless, I choose not to dwell on too much. For I now have, soldier Holyfield by my side, and together I plan to help unify this country of yours as well…It is a damned shame that it is being ravaged by war and petty squabbles. Which is why, he and I are traveling around the Empire exterminating the corrupt and exacting our own justice on the corrupt." Oda Nobunaga answered back

"Then why not join the Imperial military?" Seryu asked

"That is a decision that I leave to him. We work together as a unit, and any decisions made we do so in unison…A divided front is a doomed one after all." Oda answered back as she gestured to Francis making his return

"Alright, you guys. I've boarded up all exits to make sure that unless it's the entryway, that no one gets in or out." Francis said as he rounded the premise of the whorehouse in question

"So is everyone ready?" Francis asked as Oda finished loading a pistol she had taken from Carceres's encampment

"I'm ready when you are, soldier!" Oda answered back

"Koro and I are ready to go on your mark!" Seryu assured Francis as Koro barked in agreement

"Great! Let's do this." Francis said

From there they proceeded to quite literally walk in through the front door, given how Francis had used his superhuman strength in tandem with his flight capabilities; to knock out the guards stationed around said perimeter of the building. Once inside the trio proceeded to quickly rush through towards where the' main events' were taking place were they were eventually set upon by a small squadron of guards/mercenaries hired to keep intruders out and away; thanks to the security cameras on the premise alerting them to the trio's presence.

However, to their surprise and that of Oda who was ready to take aim and Francis ready to charge into the fray; did Seryu give Koro the order of 'sick em', and from there both the Gamer and sharpshooting archer bore witness to something that would rank amongst their top in weirdest things seen in the new world. Which was said dog turning into a hulking behemoth of fur and muscle the size of the Incredible Hulk that proceeded to go to town in pummeling and mauling them with relative impunity, much to the shock of the duo and the combination of chilling pride of Seryu at seeing her 'good boy' butchering the guards in their way.

As such while Koro was busy tearing through the 1st wave of guards that were attempting to surround them, to the point the halls were becoming painted a thick crimson from the encroaching gore and viscera from Koro's fury. All the while, Seryu who in tandem with Oda was using her Observation Haki to guide them towards the captured and enslaved women within said whorehouse; that weren't being forced into servitude already; using it as an guiding beacon towards their quarry; while she and the sharpshooting archer gunned down their targets.

Hence why after a few minutes worth of bullets punching through flesh, and Francis's fists and knees plowing through guards and mercenaries as though they were made of tissue paper did they find their quarries in one of the rooms that Seryu led them to. Which had numerous women from their mid-to-late teens to women well into their 40's and 50's in cages or in chains; with looks of fright and horror; that had varying states of abuse; that ranged from the physical in terms of various bruises, welts and even whip and knife wounds…to some that were of a more sexual nature that reviled Francis, horrofied Oda, and enraged Seryu.

"How…How could something this disgusting be allowed in the Empire?!..And how could I have been so blind to miss it?!" Seryu spoke disgusted and furious that corruption and debachuery of this level was allowed under her nose

"That's the thing, Miss. Seryu. Sometimes the worst things are just hiding in plain sight. Not to mention that someone higher up probably was on Iokal's payroll, or was being given a little 'something' to look the other way." Francis spoke back as he went to free the women from their cages and bonds

"But look at it this way, this is all going to go a long way towards cleaning things up. We get this done and we can get started on making sure nothing like this ever happens again." Francis added as Seryu went about aiding him as well

"I hope so, as I feel disgusting knowing that I failed to uphold justice, while evils like this were going on here." Seryu spoke in frustration and anger

"At the very least we can make sure that these women are taken care of, and returned to their families. On top of making sure everyone here gets what's coming to them." Francis replied as Oda was laying down surppressive fire against the guards or running officials in shooting the latter in the legs and former in the chests and head

"Quick question, officer. But do you know a tall man that looks as strong as an ox, with black and white hair; in 4 braids, with a black and red right eye, and teeth like a Devil, wearing armor like yours…and a broadsword in hand?!" Oda Nobunaga questioned as she continued to lay down suppressive fire

"...That sounds like Captain Ogre, but what is he doing here?!" Seryu asked as bullet fire continued ring out as Oda swiftly reloaded

"I don't know, but he's currently deflecting my bullets…granted it is at some of his own men. But it is problematic nonetheless." Oda Nobunaga replied

"Oda, you switch with Seryu and I; we'll take care of this Captain Ogre guy." Francis said to Oda who continued to lay down suppressive fire

"Understood, soldier." Oda Nobunaga said as she quickly switched places with Francis and Seryu

"Well, well what do we have here? The redheaded foreigner whose been the reason why I haven't gotten my dick wet in the past few months, and my own student. Ain't this a laugh." Captain Ogre spoke eying both his student and the Gamer in question

"Captain Ogre, why are you here?!...Better yet, why aren't you bringing these maggots to justice?! They've captured innocent imperial citizens, forced them into prostitution, and who knows what else…why haven't you stopped it?" Seryu questioned as Captain Ogre let out a monstrous laugh

"Because, Seryu, justice didn't get me all the whores I could want, or enough power to make myself King of this city! What it did get me unlike your goody two-shoes dad, was siding with the real people in power of the ones who could give me what I wanted if I looked the other way here and there." Captain Ogre told Seryu

"It's just a real fucking shame you and this foreigner had to come in and start ruinning everything. Hell, I could've cut you in so we could both share; in what Honest's fat bastard for a cousin could give us. That's already on top of the merchants giving me a slice of heaven every now and again…But don't worry, I'll be sure to give a report how you were always a good officer till the end." Captain Ogre further spoke as Seryu's face was caught in a mixture between anger and heartbreak

"Miss Seryu, how are we gonna handle this schnook? 'Cause if we don't a lot of innocent people and those women back there are gonna get hurt or worse." Francis asked as Seryu drew out her tonfas

"Is there anything else you have to say, Captain Ogre?" Seryu asked her voice chilingly still

"Yes, that it's going to be a real pain in the ass finding your replacement. But don't worry, I'm sure I'll find one who I can make sure will keep their nose out of others' business. Hell, I can do a better job of showing them what 'my justice' looks like." Captain Ogre responded with a monstrous laugh

"In that case, you are under arrest for your crimes against the Imperium, and I hearby sentence you to death for corruption and other crimes against the Empire." Seryu said back as she raised her tonfas with a stone-cold focus as any remnants of mirth of happiness were long gone in her expression

"Mr. Holyfield, will you assist me?" Seryu said her voice having only resolve and laser-focused anger in it as she glared daggers at her mentor

"Gladly." Was Francis's sole response

"Well, what are the rest of you fuckers waiting for?! Get 'em already, so we can get back to it!" Captain Ogre ordered

However, with Francis not wanting to waste time with lives on the line he took a deep inhale and let loose with a blast of brilliant green lightning; the crackling stream of lightning flash frying the mercenaries and guards that charged after the duo. What with Captain Ogre using Armament Haki on his broadsword to better deflect and shield himself from the stream of otherworldly lightning that while he felt it cook him inside of his own armor, had nonetheless managed to tank the power of it nonetheless.

That being said, he was immediately put on his backfoot as Francis had launched an angry tear-filled Seryu at him that began to attack him with the ferocity of a pissed-off honey badger; with Francis flying on close behind with a Spartan Kick to the face that broke his nose on contact. Something that allowed Seryu to rush in and use her own Armament Haki-covered tonfas to land a quick flurry of blows to his armored stomach; the strength of which in tandem with Francis landing a heavy overhand right to his chest was enough to send him stumbling backwards.

So from that point on ward after taking the quick succession of attacks did Ogre find himself on the backfoot as Seryu's relentless barrage of anger-fueled attacks with her tonfas, and Francis's own thunderous punches leave him with little if any time to launch a counterattack of his own…Yet even when he did land a counterattack it was soundly parried by Seryu's tonfas or blocked by Francis who would launch a counter of his own in the form of a devastating uppercut or hook to the body that further dented in his armor.

Not to mention that he was essentially cornered as well, given how anytime he tried to get distance away from the fearsome duo; did Francis shift angles through a combination of technique and flight to cut him off and land a devastating calf-kick or gut shot; that was followed through by Seryu striking out at his exposed joints or jaw. The corrupt captain was soon finding himself quickly battered and bruised as the relentless pressure from both ends had him fighting a losing battle, as Seryu's unyielding offensive combined with Francis's dogmatic cadence of hooks and crosses left his armor heavily dented, and even his sword beginning to crack.

Yet it was with Francis who channeled a considerable amount of force into his overhand right; that did Captain Ogre in as the moment the fearsome blow connected as the corrupt captain was mid-exchange with Seryu, did he find his chest armor shattering like fragile glass as he was sent flying 20 feet through the corridor. The walls he was sent skidding across being shredded as he was sent skidding, but not before Francis had flown with Seryu in hand to once more launch her at her treacherous mentor did she use her tonfas in a impressive display of strength to impale them through his now exposed chest.

Ogre was left coughing blood as he felt his ribs shatter and innards rupture as she drove them as deep as she could until her knuckles were flush against his chest and abdomen, and subsequently pressed the handles on them to fire a short burst of gunfire into him; splattering the shredded walls with blood and gore as he lay shaking on the ground. All the while a furious Seryu stood over his shaking corpse as he tried in defiance to swing his sword at her, only for Francis to fire a shard of dense obsidian into the bicep of said sword-wielding arm and pin it to the remains of the wall.

"You know what, I ain't even mad about this. Because, no matter what you do, Seryu, justice won't fix the Imperium worth of a damn. The only thing that matters is getting what's yours, and stomping over any maggot that gets in the way!" Captain Ogre spat using all of his strength to speak in defiance of his student

"You're wrong, Captain. No matter what, justice can and will prevail over corrupt monsters." Seryu responded as she raised her tonfas

"Funny, that's what your father said before he was taken care of." Captain Ogre responded

"My father died a hero fighting against the revolutionaries!" Seryu hollered

"He died a hero alright…but he was getting too much of a complex for being one…So some of the higher-ups agreed that he needed to be taken care of. So I helped do just that, and in exchange I landed this cushy jo as a police captain." Captain Ogre replied as Seryu's horrified and furious face looked at him

"Y-You killed him?" Seryu questioned as the blood-filled smile of Ogre widened

"Yeah…Yeah, I did, and I'd do all over again…The Empire pays well for those who are willing to keep its skeletons hidden…So I did what I had to, led him to an ambush where he fought 'valiantly' and the rest…well that's…that's just historACCKKK!" Captain Ogre said before Seryu began to beat his face in with her tonfas

"Beat me…alll yuuu wannntt, buttt it dozent ge…wwttt yur…rr… father…" Captain Ogre tried to further say as Seryu continued to beat his face in with her tonfas until it collapsed in on itself into a pile of skull fragments and grey matter

"...Miss Seryu, do you need a?" Francis tried to ask before seeing the heavily breathing and almost dead looking Seryu turn towards him

"Let's hunt down the rest of these corrupt maggots, save these women, and deal with the fallout. Mr. Holyfield." Seryu said as she walked past the red-head her voice unnervingly calm but her face said it all in the look of someone who had their whole world just shatter before them

"Gotcha." Francis said back

As such Francis with Seryu and eventually Oda's help once he told her that the coast was clear were able to arrest the corrupt officials within the whorehouse that had tried or would've tried to buy off the women, and use them for who knows what kind of debacherous and malevolently perverse means. What with Seryu with Francis who helped put them in chains; had Koro to usher them to the nearest prison cell where she would deal with them in due time, all the while a very much emotionally exhausted Seryu was trying to collect herself as she stood before Francis and his servant.

"I want to again, thank you two for allowing me to join you on this raid. Between those we've captured, and the security camera footage. I should have enough evidence to get started on conducting raids and investigations onto how far the corruption of this city goes." Seryu thanked the two for their assistance

"It was the least we could do, Miss Seryu. There were good people whose lives were at risk, and horrible people who were going to do a lot of messed up things to them. So the least we could do have a lawman who seems to have their head on straight, help us out." Francis replied

"And I appreciate it…I will also make sure that the two of you are compensated for your help." Seryu said trying to sound her usual optimistic self but…the truth of her captain very much soured things

"Hey, as long as those jerks get punished for their crimes, and these women are returned to their homes. Then that's all good and fine by me." Francis said back

"Whatever compensation you deem necessary, will be fine by me. Although, I do have to ask…will you be ok after tonights' events, officer?" Oda Nobunaga questioned seeing the downtrodden policewoman

"I should be fine, Miss. Nobunaga. Thank you for your concern. But I have to escort these women to the station for them to be accounted for." Seryu told them

"We can help with that so its less on you to do." Francis offered

"That would be appreciated…" Was Seryu's almost hollow response as she led the way

"Alright, come on Oda, we've got a crap ton of people shepherd." Francis said to his millitant servant as together the 3 herded the mass group of women

"Understood, soldier." Oda replied as she aided in doing so


(2 days and a half later, 2:53 Pm, Fallujah, Seryu's House, June 5th, 1176 I.E)

It would be some time after the raid on Iokal's whorehouse as Francis in wanting to check on how Seryu was doin after it all decided to visit the policewoman in question to see how she was fairing, in the time since then.

"Miss Seryu, are you ok? I swung by to check in on you?!" Francis said as he knocked on her door

'I at least hope she is.' Francis said to himself before he heard the door unlock

"Oh…Mr. Holyfield. I wasn't expecting you to come by today." Seryu spoke dressed in dark green sweatpants and a camo tank-top and her usually long hair done up in a set of messy buns

"I was just coming by to check in on you, to make sure you're doing ok after what happened on Monday…I even made pie and cookies to help brighten things up for you." Francis said as he pulled a still freshly baked apple pie out for her

"Thank you, you know you didn't have to do that right?...Your allowing me to assist with the raid on Lord Iokal's disgusting whorehouses was enough." Seryu replied surprised to see the pie made for her

(+4 Reputation with Seryu Ubiquitous for bringing her homemade sweets. 34/100)

"I know, but with everything going on, and you seeming like a pretty stand-up person. I figured that you deserved something nice done for you. Besides, you were a big help in making sure those corrupt jerks were taken out of the picture, and those women gotten to safety." Francis said back

"...So my making you an apple pie is the least I can do, as part of my trying to make sure your alright…Is it ok if I come in?" Francis requested

"Sure, come right in!" Seryu said back as she opened her door to invite him inside
"Thanks." Francis said as he came inside

From there he was welcomed inside of the policewomans' home, which was a rather well upkept and orderly, with picture frames of her as a child with her parents, her graduation from the police academy, among other things hung across the walls. The two eventually settling in into her kitchen which was modest in its and painted dark green and silver, where a sleeping Koro was off to the side slumbering, with Francis taking a seat and putting the sweets he made on the counter while Seryu put out glasses of lemonade for the both of them to drink.

What with the next several minutes being rather calming as they ate as Seryu took comfort in the apple pie and cookies, which not only tasted wonderfully but also reminded her of when her mother would come home to make her peach cobbler on her birthdays or during the holidays.

"Thank you again for making this for me, Mr. Holyfield. It was really good." Seryu said as she took another slice of pie

"Glad you like it, as I figured that even with it being on short notice…that it wouldn't hurt." Francis replied as he took a drink of his lemonade

"After what happened with Captain Ogre, and taking care of those corrupt maggots. I could use something to brighten my day…Especially after what I found in his house." Seryu spoke before eating her pie

"...If you don't mind my asking, what did you find there?" Francis asked as he started munch on some of his cookies

"I found not only his journal detailing his dealing with merchants and other officials traveling through Fallujah. But also, a number of other incriminating things that he kept locked away in a safe in his closet…Apparently my mentor had his hands in almost everything rotten with my home…All the while, I was too blinded by my admiration to see any of it." Seryu answered back sourly

"Had I been a few steps more vigilant, or kept my nose just a bit closer to the ground. I could have found out about his dealings in the dark, with those foul monsters in mens' clothing. Then I could have helped bring justice even further by stopping them…Instead I let myself get caught up in my admiring and wanting to be like him and my parents." Seryu further spoke dejected over how her borderline hero worship of Captain Ogre blinded her to the foul man he was it her bloodshot eyes were any indicator

As ever since seeing her mentor in that place and having started pouring over how far the rabbit hole went in regards to his corruption, that Seryu had found herself in a state of anger, grief, resentment, and guilt; over how she had failed to recognize the monster that her mentor was, and how truly corrupt he was as the puppet of the Empire's elite…Not a single hour went by as she blamed herself for not having been more perceptive, and more vigilant against him, as had she done so; then so many lives could've been saved, and so many foul men and women in power could have been brought to justice instead of riding high.

"Miss Seryu, I don't think you could have seen it coming. If this guy was able to get away with this stuff for who knows how many years. Then I think it is unfair to blame yourself for not having been able to magically catch him in the act." Francis said as Seryu still had a somber look on her face

"Then what do I do? How do I go forward knowing that because I was too caught up in trying to follow his example...Not just that, but the examples set by my parents as good honest people of the Empire. That I unintentionally turned a blind eye to the people of the Empire that I took an oath to protect. How do I live with that?!" Seryu asked struggling not to let tears once more streak down her face

"I…I cannot give you a concrete answer, Miss Ubiquitous…The best I can tell you, is to do and be better than Captain Ogre. That the best you can do to keep moving forward, is to carry out justice in the way that he failed to do. Which is by protecting the common man from the evils of those above in power, where he failed to do. As that, and making sure that you do your due diligence to show that despite him being a greedy power-hungry asshole; that the Empire still has good people who want to do the right thing…That in my honest opinion is how you live with that, by being better and doing the best you can." Francis told Seryu on how she should go about this from his personal standpoint

"But…But how do I do that?...I don't know where to begin to even do all of that?" Seryu wondered

"...If it means anything to you, I'll talk with Oda and try and stay here for another month or so to help you clean things up, and make sure your good enough to stand on your own footing." Francis told her

"Why? Why would you go out of your way to help me like that?...You barely know me at all, Mr. Holyfield." Seryu asked as Francis couldn't help but give a bashful grin

"Because I wanna help do the right thing across the empire. And I can see it in you, that you are someone that's trying their best to do just that…All you need is some help to push you forwards and keep you steady. Which is why, I feel in my heart of hearts that the best thing to do is to stick around and help you bring justice to people who need it." Francis answered back

"If I can't help at least one person to be better, or give them that chance when they really want it. Then I am failing outright to do good in the world, and much moreso in being a good man overall…So you can count me in, in helping you out for a spell." Francis told her as he put a comforting hand on her shoulder

"T-Thank you, that means a lot that you're willing to go out of your way to help me." Seryu said feeling her heart beat faster at the gesture Francis was showing her

"Hey, it is no skin off my back to help out. Besides, what your trying to do is something great by helping out and trying to bring justice to people…Which is why, I'm gonna do my best to help you out." Francis replied once more reaffirming his stance on helping her

"And it is incredibly appreciated…We're going to bring justice to Fallujah, and even the Empire if I have anything to say about it!" Seryu said back her demeanor almost doing a 180

"Heck yes we are! But we need to start somewhere decent and work from there. Because, we can bring people to justice no problem, but we need to start somewhere where we aren't getting in over our heads." Francis told her

"That sounds good, and I think I may know where to start, but I'll need a few days to myself before we get started." Seryu spoke in knowing somewhat where to start

"That sounds great, and when you do get settled and situated. I will be ready and waiting to get started on helping you out." Francis replied ready to help pitch in

"Until then, how about we enjoy the rest of the day with some pie and cookies…I think you've earned it, by being one heck of a policewoman." Francis said as he took another gulp of lemonade

"Thank you…To bringing justice to the people of the Empire!" Seryu said with a renewed sense of hope

"To bring justice to the people of the Empire!" Francis said back as the two continued their rather chill day together


(4 hours later, Fallujah, Drunken Falcon Inn ,7:27 Pm)

A few hours after Francis's visiting with Seryu and his checking in with her, that he would return to his hotel room at the Drunken Falcon to relax whilst Oda was out and about doing some errands of her own.

'At least everything went ok with Miss Seryu.' Francis remarked to himself

I'll certainly say, in fact, color me impressed that you actually made the attempt to reach out to Seryu. Not many often take the chance to invest in seeing what she's all about…so kudos for you on doing so.
"Of course, I would. She seems like a nice enough lady, plus she actually seems like she's trying to do the right thing here. So I figured why not stay for a while to help her out…Someone should and help make sure that good is being done around here…It isn't like Captain Ogre did much to make sure this place wasn't getting shit-canned." Francis spoke not seeing why he wouldn't do so

That is a fair point, considering how messed up Ogre left things. But nonetheless, the fact that you actually have helped create a turning point in Seryu's life, by agreeing to help her out should not go without notice…Given that in the canon, and even in most playthroughs, Seryu is left to go down more sinister routes. Often due to players having made their mind up about her from the get-go, or not seeing her as much of importance to do anything.

"Well shame on them for not helping her…Just because she might have been a rotten apple in one instance, doesn't mean she's gonna be one now. Plus, with her literal mentor outting himself as a massive dickhead right to her face. That right there is leaving behind a lot of fucked shit, and even admitting to getting her pops killed…My conscience would not let me just bounce when I have it in me to help out where I can." Francis responded

"Like I said from near day one. If I can't have fun and try to do some good with my superpowers. Then I'm not doing enough out here…Which is why, I have to try and help out, as I can't just sit around and not." Francis further spoke knowing his heart of hearts wouldn't let him sit idly by

Which is to be commended…Honestly, it makes you one of the more interesting players. You good-hearted ones certainly are the most entertaining when it comes to your choices.

"I don't know about interesting. But all I DO know is that; I'm gonna help her out as much as possible before going back on the hunt for Chimaev and Iokal. Since this requires my full attention at the moment." Francis said in recognition of where his energies could be best put to use

It is good that you see things as such. Which is why, and I rarely do this sort of thing for players. But with you having proven to be an interesting case thus far…I'm going to give you a freebee this one time.

"Really? You know you don't have to do that right? I'm just trying to be a halfway-decent person with superpowers…I don't really expect much else, other than a thank you or knowing I'm making some kidn of an impact somewhere. Everything else is just icing on the cake." Francis said in not really expecting much else when it came to his deeds

Well, this ones on the house, so deal with it. I don't give out freebies all that often, so take this one on the house numbnuts.

New Item Obtained
Legendary Item Obtained: Mera Mera No Mi
(That's right this is the one and only Devil Fruit wielded by Fire Fist Ace and the Sabo themselves, with the power over flame and fire to be yours to manipulate, create, and even transform into. This Devil Fruit has it all and potentially more for you to unlock and take to heights it's original owners hadn't even thought of, so go nuts and try not to burn the world down while your going at it with your newfound powers)

"Holy shit, I didn't think I'd get one of these...Thanks, whatever I call you." Francis said as he looked at the large flame patterned pomegranate in his hands

Like I said, this is a freebee for being one of the more interesting of the players thus far…People often forget that not being a self-serving asshole has its benefits from time to time."Well, thanks. Anyway, I guess I'll catch you later then…Also, thanks for giving me a second go-around at life. It actually means a lot that I get to do it with superpowers this time." Francis thanked the entity

You are welcome, and godspeed in the rest of you're adventures…Even with that Devil Fruit, you are going to need it.

'Semi-ominous warning aside, I'll take it…as for you however, I'll tuck you away in my inventory for later…Once Oda and I are done helping out here. Then I'll go for having kickass fire powers.' Francis said before Oda came back with bags full of new clothing and other items

"Oh hey, Oda. How'd your day go?" Francis asked his servant as he put the Devil Fruit in his inventory

"It went rather well. I purchased new casual attire to wear, and even more magazines for my rifle and pistol, as well as a kit for cleaning my katana. Overall it was a rather fortuitous day." Oda answered back

"That's great to hear!" Francis said as she set aside her shopping bags

"And what of you, soldier? Did everything go as planned with the officer?" Oda queried

"Yeah, and I figured that we could stay for a while and help her clean things up. After all, her former leader/mentor left her with a lot to clean up, and I feel that it we wouldn't be doing our due diligence; if we didn't pitch in." Francis told the millitant archer

"While that is a commendable and honorable thing to do, as befitting someone of your talents and morals. I do have to ask if it is the prudent thing to do? We are aiming to take down Colonel Chimaev and Iokal are we not?" Oda Nobunaga spoke to their master

"Of course we are. That's still on the agenda." Francis said back

"Understood, I do not wish for us to become too distracted from our main objective…While it is admirable to help those in need. We must never stray too far from what we have dedicated ourselves toward completing." Oda Nobunaga said in wanting to remain on target

"I understand, Oda. That's why after we've helped her take enough of the load off here. That we are right back on the road toward getting things taken care of." Francis replied to the militant archer

"As long as we do not detract to far from our main objectives. Then I am fine with aiding Officer Ubiquitous with whatever she needs." Oda Nobunaga said back

"After all, I can more than respect the goals and admirations of someone wanting to serve their country…It takes me back to my days during the warring states era…such fond memories made on the battlefield." Oda Nobunaga further spoke in a small amount of respect towards Seryu

"Good point, and also if you wouldn't mind. I'd like to hear more of your war stories from back in the day…I don't know how you do it, but you are one heck of a storyteller." Francis said as he sat cross-legged and ready to hear her regailing

"If that is the case then who am I to deny you the regailings of my greatness! Very well, then let me spin you the tail of one of my greatest victories! It all began on a fine Summer morning, the day was incredibly warm, and we just received our newest shipment of arquebuses! And trust me when I say those fools at Nagashima stood no chance the day we unleashed our 3rd and final siege!" Oda Nobunaga spoke their voice brimming with pride and glory over the victorious siege

'Man, I get a Devil Fruit and one of Oda's kickass stories…My life just keeps getting better!' Francis remarked as he devoured his bag of pretzel sticks as he listened to Oda's regailing

So with Francis and Oda having stopped another one of Iokal's whorehouses with the unexpected assistance of Seryu, we now see him making the effort to aid her in cleaning up the streets of Fallujah in the wake of the mess left behind from Captain Ogre's corrupt dealings with the Imperial elite! The question being how will Francis and his sharpshooting compatriot deal with Seryu being added into the mix of things?!...Well, stay tuned to see in the all new installments of, A Gamer Amongst Monsters: Alternative!


Alright, that takes care of this one, as I hoped you guys have enjoyed this chapter and everything that has gone along with it, because oh boy was I not expecting things to go this way, but hey somethings just happen when writing a chapter. But that being said, I wanna thank all of you for sticking around and supporting the story thus far, and hope you guys will stick around for more of what's to come!

Since this is Pravus666 signing off until next time, as our next chapter to come will be a mini-arc with Francis, Oda, and Seryu taking out the muscle of Captain Ogre's enforcements…the Dark Scorpions, so stay tuned for all of that good stuff.

Part 1 Theme Song: ShutterSpeed by Karnivool

Random End Song: And Justice for All by Metallica


Now then onto the reviews from the last chapter.

abrickner815: He will but it will be awhile before he goes to other worlds, since I want for him to be at least a good chunk of the way through the Akame Ga Kill timeline before that happens. Otherwise, its going to feel weird for me to have him jump into another worlds' nonsense and not even be halfway through the events of the one he's in.

Imperial warlord; Glad you like it, and Francis won't 100% join anyone. Because as far as he's concerned neither side is really all that, in terms of making a convincing case on why he should join. So while he will help out when and if he can, its only going to be because 'hey its a friend that's asking me to help them out with something' more than doing it to help out a particular side. Not to mention that I do plan on Francis busting Night Raid's balls about what they do later on, considering that as far as he's concerned he's only helping them out with anything because it aligns with him trying to be a good man and not shit else...Otherwise, anything else they want out of him, can have them make like Michael Jackson and beat it in his book.