Author's Note: (I don't own the characters. They are from the Light novel/Anime/Manga called "Juuni Taisen" story made by NisioIsin) This story is not original and, it takes place after the Anime where the Winner got his One wish where the other 99 wishes got rejected. An AU Story Start. Let's not forget some War Criminal characters from the "Juuni Taisen vs Juuni Taisen" stories are there. So, I hope you learn them.

[Hey, I know there may be bad grammars, not clear details or something but, my mind is flooded with this! So please don't be harsh on me.. thank you..]


Chapter 10: "The Nameless Warrior who seeks Entertaining Twists"

=NO POV=

After Class,

It's been two weeks since that student, Meland Sherry was transferred and going home with her feels normal. For some reason, Nezumi was getting used to her rebellious behavior and he's too tired to complain her. He doesn't like her in the first place and yet, he started to get used to her company even if he doesn't want to.

As they were about to cross the street, Nezumi noticed someone following Meland behind and he knew this was a stalking act. The suspicious man was about to reach Meland's back until Nezumi grabbed his hand.

"Who are you?" Nezumi asked, gripping the Stranger's hand. Meland didn't see that coming as she watched Nezumi keeping his eyes on the stranger.

"Oh sorry about that. I was wondering if your friend is free? You see, I'm looking for a good actress and she's just good for that role." This guy looks suspicious and they're not buying his words. He suddenly panicked as he used his hand gestures to try and convince them. "Sorry, I'm not meant to harm you kids. Here's my ID card, see?"

As the man picked his card from his pocket, Meland noticed his clothes looked clean and professional. It was something she recognized from an entertaining career from TV. "So you're a Director? From a Theatre, huh?"

The man nodded back as he showed them his Personal card. Apparently, he was working in a Famous show and most of his status is highly professional. After seeing his ID card, Nezumi and Meland are convinced he is the real business guy. The moment he discussed his deal, Nezumi took a look behind the business man and asked, "If you're not stalking us, then who is that friend over there?"

The businessman turns to Nezumi's gaze and finds a mysterious guy watching them beside the lamp post. He was confused and pointed out. "Huh? He's not one of mine."

"Skull pyon?" Meland slipped their name out from her mouth as she immediately covered her mouth. The moment they glanced at her, Meland coughed back and revealed her relationship to him. "Sorry, he's my friend. He looks worried when you follow us."

"Sorry about that. I didn't mean that, I swear." The business man apologised, rubbing his head. He turned to Meland's observant friend and waved him, "Hey, you can join us if you want. There's something I want to share with your friend. "

When the masked guy named Skull Pyon joined their conversation, he went closer to Meland, who whispered something that those two can only hear.

"What are you doing here?" Friendsheep asked with an irritated tone.

"Same as you, scouting." Skull pyon replied.

"But that doesn't mean you have to join me."

"I have extra time. I couldn't let you do all the work when Sir Cancer entrusted this mission to you" Skull Pyon said.

"How noble you are.." Friendsheep let out a disappointed sigh back.

"Now that we're here, can you tell us why you're interested in hiring her?"

"About that, our screenplay is going for one week and we need someone who can play the princess role. Our previous actress fell ill and I was desperate to find her replacement. Of course, we'll pay you once this is over, please help us!" He bowed down and begged seriously.

In other words, the business man wanted to find a volunteer actress who will play a princess role and a villain actor. He was interested in finding an elegant young girl and he was hoping she could help them. The Theatre will take place three days before.

"How about it?" The Business man said.

"Well, I don't know." Meland looked away,

"Why don't you give it a try? We'll never know if it's worth it or not." Nezumi suggested. He doesn't mean to say it but since he knows this transfer student is capable of lying everyday, maybe her acting skills are good enough.

It would be a waste to ignore her talents of acting and deception. Nezumi reminds Meland of a certain warrior who is good at being weak but she's actually capable of deceiving strong warriors and manipulating people. Not only that, his memories from his last war with her has made him learn not to trust a kind-hearted and naive woman who knows how to play unfairly.

The only time this warrior thinks pretending to smile will bring fortunate results that could survive her. But sometimes, good talent comes for a better use when it comes to acting. Why not make it use for performance that will make people fall for the lies?

Nezumi wanted to prove Meland if she wanted to take that performance and show her talent. But it seems she doesn't buy his suggestion, which makes it understandable that she's stubborn enough to take it. With his disappointed reaction, Nezumi decided to call it a day and tell that guy she's shy or scared to act. Before he does that, the white haired girl surprised him with her answer.

"Okay, I'll take it." Meland said. Nezumi and Skull Pyon didn't expect her to oblige.

"Perfect! You two could come as well. To be honest, we could use a helping hand around here. I still need to find the Villain Actor." The business man smiled back. Skull Pyon and Nezumi took their glance before they reached an agreement they would come.

There was no other choice. Nezumi would've wanted to ditch them again but seeing Meland and Skull Pyon's glares gave him shivers.

"In that case, we'll make our choice once we check your play." Meland commented.

"Of course, I'm not forcing you." The business man replied.


=NO POV=

Minutes Later,

Who would've thought their stage play show is being held near the school. Meland took precautionary notes of her exit roads if things didn't go by. It turns out those recruited guys have few staff working on their props. Not only that she is disappointed in their lack of progress but their costumes are not fashionable in their play. It felt cringe to see those terrible costumes. Meland could vomit when she sees people wearing them in the middle of their live show.

On the other hand, the script of the play was so good that Skull Pyon admitted it's suited for drama performance. The name of the show is fitted to a story about presenting how bad war is. Nezumi read the script and thought their hero portrayal is quite different.

"I think the Hero should be ignorant and oblivious to the survivors before giving advice." Nezumi corrected without thinking. "I mean, what's the point if they save them without giving them a reason to live. It should be better to give them lines where they teach their moral ways to survive more."

"You think so?" Nezumi nods back and the Scriptwriter took notes of his personal feedback, hoping to improve the Hero's lines. The young teen points another lines where the Hero script gets off and suggests, "Over there, maybe you should add a depth to this character to portray him as someone respected their rival. The audience would be touched to see this play off"

"You're right. We should try that." The Scriptwriter got inspired as he took more advice from Nezumi. The staff workers nearby didn't expect their fellow visitor can lead the scripts to improve their story. Not only this young boy but the lady and the mysterious masked guy offered to help them voluntarily.

The white haired girl volunteered to lead the costume design and recreate her own style based on the play, which the staff allowed her choice. The mysterious guy volunteered to manage the actors and how they perform in different scene. At first, they don't want strangers to be the leading team of different roles but after the first try, they easily got along and win their leadership trust.

"The three of you should join our team and help us for our performance! We beg you, please." The Business man asked them as he bowed his head. Skull Pyon and Friendsheep turned their glances to each other before they come to their mutual agree.

"Since we have free time, we'll do our best." Friendsheep said. After their answer, she took a threatening glare at Nezumi, who was supposed to refuse their volunteer job but got stunned when Skull Pyon gives him a look of "Killing him if he tries to reject their request".

Nezumi wanted to refuse, thinking it's a bother but the people's eyes were expecting him to agree. He bets if he turns down, his personal life could get into trouble. Skull Pyon and Friendsheep's vicious eyes are on him. If he won't help them, they're going to scold him like those Blonde twins.

"I'll help. Send me those scripts and we'll revise it." The staff and their scriptwriters rejoiced of his answer, giving a round of applause.

With new teams on their side, they bet the performance of this show will improve well.


=NO POV=

Whenever class is finished, Meland reminds Nezumi to pack his things and accompany him to that theatre place and he agrees. He brought supplies for props and mending clothes to make it stylish.

As for Skull Pyon, he volunteered to be the Villain Actor and led his team to improve their act. It's like they have double roles and Skull Pyon doesn't mind. At least, they were having fun.

Three days later,

Time goes by and the people are ready for their show. The audiences got their seats and waited to watch the Theatre. Some workers have stage fright and some have confidence to share with them and make it successful.

Nezumi is currently part of the props team. Even everyone agrees the young teen is too weak to act and carry the show. He also handles reminding the team on their performance. Just when the play started and actors taking their roles, he took a peek at the first to second act and he reminded them about the battles from the previous warriors he encountered before, especially the twelfth zodiac war.

Not only that but the show where Skull Pyon plays as a villain and fought alongside with the Acting Warrior Princess Meland, gave him a feeling that their story is like the part where Ox and Tiger warrior joined up to beat a hideous looking monster. Some things may end up coincidence but Nezumi believes the script he improved might have mixed up in his personal experience.

When the villain was defeated in the next scene, a secret plot twist villain will come around to have a last fight against the Warrior Princess. This team has few actors but, with the help of the masked guy, Skull Pyon, he volunteered to take three roles and everyone felt worried if they messed it up.

However, Skull Pyon blew everyone's expectations as he was able to play their role as a plot twist villain. Right after that, they changed their costume and acted as a main hero again, defending the Warrior Princess and fighting side by side.

The play went to an astounding performance as people clapped the best scene, the immersive impact and the actor's lines. No one knew the person behind the hero, the first and second villain were played by the same actor. The co co-workers were amazed at Skull Pyon's multitasking job.

As time went on, the Theatre came to a close and the audience loved the show as they left positive feedback. When the stage is closed, the workers tend to clean their props before leaving. Some of them thanked Skull Pyon and Meland for their outstanding performance, they also requested to work with them more.

Meland refused, saying she still needed to continue her studies and finish her education while Skull Pyon will think about it. Nezumi immediately refused to join but he gave them personal advice and methods to improve their story script for the next play. So, leaving up to the passionate group is a good idea.

As they head out, Nezumi accompanies them to the riverbank, hoping to give them a change of pace and relax their mind.

There was a gentle cold breeze blowing on their face and Nezumi wanted to go home. Skull Pyon lifted their head as they started the conversation.

"I think I should try."

"About what?" Nezumi asked.

"An actor. The times when I played those roles weren't that bad. If I acted as a part of the fictional people in the script, maybe I could find my own name?"

Friendsheep can hear Skull Pyon's voice sounds humanely and desperate as if they have another goal. Nezumi thought about something and he replied,

"That's impossible." Skull Pyon clenched their fist and wanted to argue the brat. Before he did that, Nezumi finished his lines with a brave expressionless face, "I'm not saying it's over. You will never find your real name but, if you start taking an Actor job like the time you took three character roles, you can create your Own and True Name that everyone will never forget about you. You don't need to find it. Just make them if you want to."

"Are you serious, brat?" Skull Pyon sounds so intimidating that one lie could end his life.

"You never know unless you try." Nezumi responded. He knows that convincing this guy doesn't gain anything but, he doesn't want to ignore those workers who kept praising Skull Pyon's talents. "If you're giving up now, be my guest."

"Well then, why don't you watch while I create my own name? How does that sound, Nezumi?"

It wasn't Nezumi's intention to help his goals because he's willing to and now, he regrets not using his hundredth paths. If he wasn't talking to Skull Pyon, none of these deals would come. Still, it's best to go with the flow unless someone gets to hear more lectures.

"Deal. I'm looking forward to that, Skull Pyon." Nezumi and Skull Pyon shook hands and they agreed on their terms.


=Rounder POV=

The War Veterans Journal Part 1,

One month after the Twelfth Zodiac war, Rounder expects their deaths weren't wasted and the endless war would come to an end. However, he was wrong.

The times when he spent relaxing with his fellow respectable warriors didn't last long. He remembered they were fighting against the Zodiac War Organisation and their alliance with other countries, which turned into a complete defeat.

The rebellions fled from countries to other countries, hoping to find a good shelter to hide and blend in the shadows. Other times, they knew the only way to survive is to be their slave or, joining the Champion's side.

Of course, Rounder joined the Twelfth champion's side because of his clan's will. He also wanted to live and help the youngest champion for his friend's sake. It was two weeks when he realized the Champion unintentionally formed a War Veteran team led by their Manager.

Every week, Rounder always meets up with the team and checks their Young Champion, Nezumi to ensure that he's safe from the organisation's hands. Each member took turns to watch over him until something changed.

It was the first week of April night that made Nezumi act strange. Rounder was the next person in charge to watch over the team as he went to the Cheese store to meet up. This time, he noticed that Nezumi looks gloomy and more miserable than before. The young teen doesn't bother to look him in the eye.

Rounder wonders if Nezumi actually knows the situation he's dealing with. He was aware this young champion was only thinking of going to school and sparing warriors who tried to kill him.

"Say Rounder nii-san, can you leave me alone for one night. I have someone to meet up with. They wouldn't like you, especially how they have a history with those previous warriors." Nezumi said, trying to look away.

"I understand. But I must take you to that place, is that alright for you?" Rounder gave him a condition and Nezumi approved.

How mysterious. Rounder believes that Nezumi might have some plans that require someone to rely on. But he doesn't want anyone to be involved in his problems. It was getting strange when Nezumi wanted to be alone and meet up with strangers. He doesn't usually go out with friends in his high school.

Later on, Rounder finds the Silver teen sleeping in the bench near the bus stop and he carries him all the way to the abandoned building, a place where he planned to meet up with. Once they arrived, Nezumi told him to stop. The silver teen stood up and asked the man to leave this area. Rounder obliged and left him be. However, he was so curious that he sneaked behind thin walls and left a small hole for him to find out who Nezumi was going to meet.

Oh, now he came at a worse timing. The person Nezumi was going to encounter is not someone related to his fellow zodiac warriors. Rounder knew he lied but what's even worse is that person is not meant to underestimate so much.

That person was actually the most dangerous guy in the organisation, the Wishmaker and the one of the referees of the Zodiac war,

Duedecouple.

That old man is here. He knows the twelfth champion's whereabouts and his personal business with them. Rounder doesn't want to admit that he doesn't like to meet this guy. He heard the rumours of the Wishmaker's legacy and he didn't want more troubles to deal with him.

But the first comes to mind, what is his business with the Twelfth champion? The Wishmaker doesn't hurt him but he requests a strange offer that I don't understand. An important offer where the Rat warrior has to leave the others around 3rd. And what do you know, Nezumi agrees with a silent nod. Not only the confusion started out but the Wishmaker actually noticed Rounder and despite that, he respected to spare him.

When Nezumi and Rounder met up again, the young teen wanted to keep this secret between them and the War Veteran accepted his request reluctantly. What is he up to, making a deal with a devil. As much as he highly respects this lesser champion, he doesn't like his reckless decision of taking the palms of the enemy's hand.

The second morning came by and every War Veteran has a different job. While Listener went to the battlefield and evacuated her clans out, Rounder went to the Boar clan and met up with Eleventh.

"Tell me about the Wishmaker." Eleventh raised his eyebrows and he turned away, not interested in their discussion. Rounder knew this champion knew that legend that he doesn't bring that topic.

I met him Yesterday." Eleventh turned to Rounder with a glare. "Dueducuple, isn't it? He knows where the Twelfth Champion lives. He knows us. So, if you don't make your move, your life will be in danger."

Rounder knows a half lie won't convince him but he knows this little trick has a twenty percent chance to make him fall for it. And what do you know, Eleventh fell for it and decided to explain it reluctantly.

The Next Night,

Nezumi was going to head out in secret until he noticed Rounder, who was waiting for him. Just before he confronted the Veteran Warrior, Nezumi suddenly fell down.

Rounder got him on time and noticed he was unconscious. He carried him on his back and walked towards the same destination. The black haired man gave the young teen some time to sleep.

Doing this reminds him of a zodiac tale where the Rat hops on the Ox before they jumped out and won the tournament. Funny that Rounder was part of the Ox clan and he's following that tradition by coincidence. It doesn't matter if everyone thinks he's been treated like a ride as long as he doesn't lead the wrong path. Even his best friend, Uushi, respected this warrior and accepted his death for him.

Minutes later, once they went to that abandoned building, Nezumi woke up and thanked Rounder for taking him there. They were waiting for the last person and then. Rounder used his ability and heard footsteps coming closer.

The Wishmaker, Dueducuple, has finally arrived at last and greeted them with a bow. Rounder starts to get shivers down the spine while Nezumi looks tired as he gives a silent yawn. Rounder remembered Eleventh's information about the old man as he recalled from his mind and took caution.

Dueducuple, one of the organisation's strongest referees and the mysterious guy who watched countless zodiac warriors in battle. Most champions know not to mess with him. Even if he's an old man, he can take trials that will lead to life and death situations. Rounder was beginning to worry about Nezumi but the Eleventh didn't bother, he also advised taking videos and evidence about their meeting wouldn't get suspicious because the Wishmaker will eventually erase them in the end.

"Say Wishmaker, I don't know your deal for this and I know you're stronger than me but-" Rounder stood on the front with a brave face and answered. "If anything happens to him, I won't forgive you. I swear on my life if you dare to kill him somewhere we don't know, I will chase you to the end and make you regret you were born."

He sounds like making a childish proposal to the strongest guy in town. Everyone would think a heartless guy like him could make a joke but, Rounder got a promise from Uushi to respect the Winner and honour their existence. Getting attached to a certain warrior was out of his character and yet, he's willing to be reckless and fulfil his best friend's sake.

Now the next problem is their response. Surely, the Wishmaker would be upset and end his life in a blink of an eye, right? He heard this judge can easily kill warriors in two seconds. Rounder feels mocking this mysterious guy will turn into a bad point and Nezumi is sweating, thinking his friend is in danger.

"Rounder is it? Such bravery and marvellous your words are, you truly are one of the Veterans I respect." Dueducuple started laughing like he was amused with his intentions. The warriors were stunned to see how relaxing the judge was.

"Okay, I accept your resolve." Dueducuple nods back. He turned his eyes behind them and continued, "And let's not forget to invite someone who has been hiding from the shadows from the time you arrive. Come on now, there's no need to hide in shame, I won't hurt everyone."

The moment Dueducuple calls that person, who walked closer and showed themselves, Rounder didn't expect, he, of all people, would follow them to get involved in their secret mess.

"Eleventh?" The Boar warrior stood up in silence, not reacting to the Wishmaker's presence. Rounder has a lot of questions for him but, the Wishmaker and Nezumi looked impatient that their meeting is taking it serious from now.

"With everyone around, let's get this show on the row. Come on, everyone. Clap your hands." Dueducuple clapped his hands, hoping they would join in but everyone literally ignored him and didn't follow.

Out of amusement, the Wishmaker sighed to see this tension gloomy. He doesn't mind the audience but seeing Nezumi's determination gave him a sign to start this trial at once.

When Rounder observed him more, he noticed Dueducuple's last smirk as he snapped his finger and teleported them out of this abandoned area.


*Character Details 10:

Name: Skull Pyon

Occupation: Nameless Villain Actor

Title: Former War Criminal of Scorpio

Power: Assassin skills

Warrior Quote: "Kills Randomly"

Wishing Quote: I want a Name

(My Creative Non-Cannon) Personality:

Mysterious, Serious and Quiet Nature. As an assassin, they don't want to blend in society but without a name, they would lost their existence. Their current goal is not to be forgotten by finding their true name while hiding their status at the same time. They like watching Dramas and read Tragic and Entertaining stories, hoping to find interesting and meaningful names. As for the team, they are the fastest warrior who can blend in the shadows and defeat anything including ability users.