Chapter 16: Who are the enemies?
A/N: Long story short, I lose interest, But was planning out the overall story. There are just some parts of the story I can't half-ass.
Where am I now?
I scan my surroundings. It is nothing but darkness until I look further away. I could see a white curve stretching across the horizon. My eyes trace the curves until I see floating rocks? No, They're too massive to be mere rocks. They are as large as mountains floating in the black void with light illuminating them from a single direction.
I took a step and nearly fell over. Why do I feel light? And why is it the only thing I feel?
I took a deep breath but didn't feel air coming in.
I don't feel hot or cold.
I can't hear nor smell.
All my senses are muted.
This must be a dream, or I'm dead.
The God of Light must have killed me faster than I can comprehend.
"Welcome, My pawn," I could hear his voice," Welcome to the moon."
Can't he be bothered to learn my name?
And I'm on what?
Should I be hyperventilating? While my fragile mind can't comprehend the lack of air or most of my senses? I know what it's like to have all of those senses locked away with barely a room to breathe. Mere minutes would feel like hours.
"This is a dream, isn't it?" I turned around to see a dragon. Somehow, It pitched black, yet I could see him clearly in the void. He slowly descended in front of me and transformed into his humanoid self.
"Not quite, All of this is real," He confirms," I needed this perfect opportunity."
I would roll my eyes at his attempt at being grandeur again. Instead, I look at him with clear annoyances.
"I get it," I called him out," You're a divine God I have no hope of fighting. You don't need to be a show-off every time you appear."
He paused, unsurprised by my harsh words.
"Congrats my champion, You made the right choice in denying my brother's offer," His voice boomed, and the moon shook violently.
….
He didn't seem to care.
"I came to reward you for your loyalty," He said with a wave of an arm.
Like every deal, I'm going to end up regretting it.
"I'll grant you a place of respite. Tell me? That patch of land, the island I directed your birth into, what is the name?"
"Patch," I deadpanned.
"Yes, That's what it is. What is this island called?"
"This island, my home, is called Patch."
"Patch? What an uncreative name. Champion, I will remove all Grimm on the island and near the coastline. Any of my creations outside of the island shall be compelled to turn away," He offered.
"What the catch?"
"If you die, My Grimm will return. I'll only allow one of my creations to be tied to this land."
"I'm not your creation," I snared.
"Listen here," He leaned in, but I didn't step back," For millennia, I tossed you into this failed world until bits and pieces of you fell apart, and I needed a way to mend them."
I felt immense pressure inside my body and wanted to topple over. Yet, I stood still.
The ground shifted, and I was blinded by the light. It now felt like I was floating.
"Your soul is the same, but that soul has been broken, scattered, implanted, and mended thousands of times over. You're an amalgamation that should have faded until you no longer exist. Tell me, How much of you is left?" He continued," Are there any memories in there that aren't real or belong to someone else?"
A sudden migraine impacted my head.
My sister…killed her-spared her-What sister?
Parents abandoned me-Parent both died-Father sold me.
Captured by slavers-sold to slavers. Never freed.
Someone formed Night Raid-Command form-I formed Night Raid.
"That's enough," I stared back at him.
"Did I hit a nerve?" He taunted," I thought so."
He leaned back, waiting for my migraine to subside.
"Look to your left," He moved an arm in that general direction.
I did a quick side-eye before astonishment overtook me. A blue orb hovering in a black void.
What in the-
"Remnant," he narrated," Once home and now a battlefield. I could turn it into remnants. How quickly do you think my brother will race to Remnant aid if I drop the moon?"
There was no sound.
The moon collided with the planet in the blink of an eye. Any scream of horror from the people below was immediately extinguished. Remnants become a mess of burning red fragments hurling in every direction. I felt nothing but dread and rage. A hundred million lives were lost because of two Gods.
I blink and the illusion is gone.
I didn't know if it was my vivid imagination or his trickery.
"That will prove you're the inferior brother," I snapped," That would mean throwing the chessboard and the table before the game even begins. All this setup would be for nothing because you can't control your ego."
We stared at each other in silence for a moment before he nodded.
"I should smite you for that outburst, but your lack of fear makes it clear to me. I made the right choice in choosing you," He admitted," A weaker human would be mentally impaired or a schizophrenic. Even losing their sanity in my presence. Stand up and keep moving forward. Patch will become a safe haven, and not even Salem could bring a horde against it without my Grimm turning on her."
"What if I decided to relax on the island for the rest of my life?"
"My brother would prefer if you do and I can't do anything about it because it's your choice. It will always be your choice," He spoke without a hint of malice. It sounded joyous, making me suspicious.
This sounds reasonable. I can work with this. If Patch is free of Grimm, it will be seen as a true safe haven once people start to realize it. Plus, That would mean only human threats could affect the island. I could make it a base of operation.
The downside is that eventually, The prospect of moving to a safe zone with limited space could cause a housing crisis. Plus, My death will bring the Grimm back into an overpopulated island. Patch is being held hostage. I can't neglect my mission, or else I'll doom the people here.
I can deny his offer. But if everything works out, there will no longer be Grimm on Remnant.
"I accept."
It is impossible to fight him. He teleported me onto the moon the moment I stepped into the bathroom. It isn't even possible for me to be in space without dying. At least, That is what was theorized when I was homeschooled. No one on Remnant ever got close to being in space until now.
I look at the reflection in the mirror.
I'm his pawn in his feud against his brother. It is as if everything is one multilayered chess match and the brother Gods are the true players standing above all the other pieces. While those pieces play their matches. Even with strength and experience, I find myself at the bottom.
I shouldn't be too upset over it. The new government in my old world branded Night Raid as a criminal syndicate. We played our part for the sake of a better tomorrow, and in the end, all our sacrifice wasn't in vain. Even if it will all be forgotten, buried in secrecy as time passes.
Why should this be any different?
The answer is clear. I need to end all this for a better tomorrow. Even if…
If…I…
I can't even finish my own sentence.
Damn it.
How could I even make that possible? Against them?
But for now...I decided to put aside my scheming. I could feel the God of Darkness eyes watching over me. The God of Light wouldn't make a move while his brother is nearby. Meanwhile, Everyone else is tied up in Mistral for the time being. I doubt they could hunt me down so soon.
It is clear to me what this means. Rest and Peace for now.
"KYAAAA!" A scream from the 1st floor echoed throughout the house. That sounds like Ruby!
I responded instantly. I sent the bathroom door flying off its hinges and jumped down the stairs without touching a single step. I feared that the peace I desire has broken and nearly activated my semblance to eliminate that threat.
When I landed downstairs all my worries evaporated.
My dad was in the kitchen setting down a small box. He has a wide smile across his face.
Ruby is hugging a tiny black, furry loaf. It snorts constantly nuzzling and licking her face.
It's a puppy?
What is a puppy doing here?
"Oh Rube," Yang slowly made her way downstairs while brushing her hair," Nice superhero landing, Akame. What with all the noise?"
"A what?" I looked up at her.
"Superhero landing!" Yang shouted," Right after you kicked open the bathroom door and almost hit me."
"Sorry," I apologized and stood back up.
"Don't worry, sis," She smiled," Uncle Qrow did the same thing last month to the back door."
"Is that why we don't have a back door?" I deadpanned," Explain?"
"He said something about a bird," Yang shrugged.
"Qrow thought he saw a raven bothering Ruby and didn't have the money to pay for it," My dad revealed," If he didn't spend all his money on-nevermind."
"Puppy!" Yang screamed. I watched as the hyperactive puppy shot out of Ruby's arms and into Yang's face, knocking her over.
I couldn't help but smile at the antic of-Oh crap!
The furry loaf pounced at me, and I barely caught him in time. Both my arms reacted on instinct to catch the puppy. I felt its hot breath on my face. It did nothing as its soft...cuddly fur, and wet tongue met my cheek. This isn't a bad way to be attacked. It reminded me of how Leone will smother me in her boobs; Both are annoying, soft, and strangely comforting.
The puppy calmed down after I was able to get a good grip. I held it at arm's length as it kicked its stubby little legs in the air. What an adorable little puppy. I brought the animal closer to my chest and hugged it.
"What is the dog's name? Dad?" I asked as it snuggled into my embrace.
"I wanted you three and Umber to decide for yourselves," He explained and walked past us," I'll bring her downstairs."
"You don't have to," Umber called out from upstairs," This is your special moment Akame, Yang, and Ruby."
She is around the corner but refuses to step out to even look at us.
"I'll go grab-"Ruby was about to run upstairs until our dad interrupted her.
"Wait," He tapped her shoulder and looked at me," Umber needs some time alone first."
"Umber," I uttered under my breath while the puppy, sensing my emotion, whimpered.
Yang reached over and gently lifted the puppy from my arms. She slid a pair of sandals and opened the door.
"I think we got a tennis ball outside," Yang said as she walked outside," Let's play with the puppy!"
Ruby looked back and forth between Yang and dad before he gave a reaffirming nod. My little sister brightly smiled as she ran outside to play.
"Join us whenever you're ready!" Yang yelled and raced outside with the dog and Ruby.
"I'm coming too," He smiled and walked outside," Don't want a few Beowulf's ruining the fun."
The creature of Grimm is going to be a problem anymore. I decided to believe the God of Darkness word that he removed all the Grimm on Patch. He is their creator, and Salem is a bitter widow with a God complex. She would need to send her own minions onto this island, and I'll be more than happy to end their lives.
He closed the door behind him, and I knew it was time to handle the situation. I have a few ideas on why Umber would act like this. None of them are correct until I unveil the truth.
I walk up the stairs. When I round the corner, Umber's eyes seem to study every part of my body. A soft expression settled on her face when she looked directly at me. She opens her mouth but closes it again as if she's at a loss for words. I waited patiently for her with my arms crossed.
"Akame," She gulped," Do you-Why is-I-I don't want to stay here!"
"What did my dad tell you?" I confronted Umber," Before I entered the house."
"He wouldn't mind adopting me if I don't have a family," She explained," But I do have a family, and that family is the tribe."
Is this a good time to tell her? That the tribe killed her parents and took pity on her? I have to be truthful to Umber. She's my best friend. Right, Let me say it directly to her.
"The tribe isn't your parents. I'm talking about people that share your flesh and blood."
"I-I don't care about that because they left me behind."
"Umber, forgive me," She is going to hate me for this," The tribe killed your parents and took pity on you. All the care and love are fake. You're a replaceable tool to them."
Was I too blunt? I needed to let her know. It was also information I needed to get off my chest.
"You're not making sense," She narrowed her eyes," Let me see one of your hands. I want to hold it."
I'm not making sense? Umber is brainwashed, but I didn't expect it to be this bad.
I lifted a hand for her to hold. I couldn't see an issue with her request. She wrapped both hands around mine without a single finger on my wrist, where my pulse is located. I guess she just wants to hold my hand. Umber's hands feel warm.
I noticed how she nearly retracted in shock.
Huh? Is it because my hands are...crap. My hands are cold; As cold as the creature of Grimm. I can't tell anyone about what happened to me.
"Akame," She choked out," I can't stay here. I need to leave."
It takes me a moment to process her words as I stare at my hand and arm. It is clear of scars and imperfections. Well, I taught Umber to be perceptive of her surroundings, and now it's going to backfire on me.
"I can't allow it," I told her," Stay with me on Patch. I'll work on bringing proof of who you once were. Before the tribe robbed you of it."
"Parents I don't give a damn about," she hissed, fully believing their lies," I need to return to them, and Raven, my leader, will come back. This place is nice, but my home will always be with the tribe. They're not lowlife or killers to me. The tribe is where I belong."
My mother is not coming back. I'm confident that the sword has pierced her heart. I killed my mother the same way I killed my mentor, my father, in my old world.
I need to break her fanaticism before it pushes her to the point of no return. I'm scared of seeing a repeat of my past life. I will have to eliminate Umber the same way I dealt with my comrade and friend, Tsukushi. A gun wielder with utter devotion to the Empire and Gozuki.
What do I even say in this situation? I don't want to see this world becoming a mirror of my old one.
"You are their pawn. The tribe will discard you and find another child to take your place. You're nothing to them," I vocalize bluntly," Let go of them, or you'll end up on the wrong path."
"If you considered everyone low life and killers, Are you saying the same for Martha," she snarled," And Flaxen too?!"
Damn it, Umber. You just have to bring the only two people beside you, I give a damn about. My mother too but...
Martha is a born killer who ruined her life beyond repair. I came to accept that the path she walks will haunt my nanna for the rest of her life. It was only a matter of time. I shouldn't have taken revenge.
Flax was a model citizen who reached her breaking point. She embraced the darkness and will never turn back. She changed after Martha's death, but it wasn't for the better. Martha was the one moral compass holding her back.
Flax is planning something in the future.
"Umber," I looked at her," Never walk that path. You still have your life ahead of you. Neither Martha nor I want it to be wasted. She is already far gone even when she wants to live peacefully. I don't know if I can escape my mistake. It isn't something you want to embrace even if you're at the lowest point in your life like Flaxen."
"I want to die with a purpose."
"Here is your purpose. Find a way to cut your own destiny and decide what you want to believe in," I smiled," Live, Umber."
She isn't too far gone, yet. Umber hasn't killed anyone, nor does she develop the will to commit such an act. She is still a child.
"And what better way to achieve it by standing over the weak."
"Only cowards and narrow-minded fools live by those ideals," I sighed and pulled my hand back. I was referring to my mother and Esdeath, respectively.
"Bull shit," She snapped back," The weak are cowards and don't see the bigger picture of this world. Salem will bring society down, and we'll be ahead of the curve."
Of course, arguing with a child feels like I'm talking to a brick wall. I would have beaten some sense into her if I had any less patience. I need to convince her that what she believes is wrong or Umber will die.
Please, Umber. I don't want to be enemies. I don't want to kill you.
"The tribe is doing what Salem wants!" I yelled at her.
"As if the wizard isn't any better? Remember our history lesson?" She countered," He has and will toss us aside if it means keeping his lies intact. It will just repeat if we side with him."
The space between us felt distant even if we were in arm's reach. Umber thinks I'm not the same Akame that was on the airship. I don't blame her judgment because I would come to the same conclusion if we switched places. If I tell her the truth, it will only push her away.
"What do I have to do to convince you that I'm me?" I asked her.
"Come back to the tribe if you're Akame," She continued," Raven will decide if you are her daughter. Whatever you are! You Geist, Chill, some Grimm clone."
I took a moment to figure out a way out of this mess. Failure would mean Umber will become my enemy in the future. I can't watch her my whole life, and eventually, she will escape. I don't want to turn her over to authorities, nor do I want to kill her. I need to craft a good cover story on the spot to dismantle her reasoning while covering up my actions.
"Fine," I take a deep breath," Here is the truth of what happened."
"I'm listening," She crossed her arms," Imposter."
"Imposter?" I raised a brow," You're pretty calm for someone who thinks she is talking to a Grimm in disguise."
"So you are a Grimm!" She accused me.
"I'm not!" I fired back," And I know you don't fully believe it either."
"W-what?" She stuttered, broke eye contact, and took a step back," Well, I thought you would a-attack me! If you do, I'll scream, and Mr. Xiao Long will save me."
Ah, There's a lie and a slip-up. Umber shouldn't have spoken that last sentence. If I really was an 'intelligent' creature of Grimm, I would have slashed her throat and kept her from screaming.
"You wouldn't risk your life like this unless," I paused for the reveal," You still cling onto the hope that I'm still the same Akame."
"That proves you're not Akame!"
"Umber," I closed my eyes," How did I get here?"
"Walking up the stairs," She said with a smug expression.
"How did I go from Anima to Patch?"
"You could have flown here," She countered," Maybe you got a pair of Grimm wings."
I resisted the urge to facepalm. I reminded myself that I'm talking to a child.
"Four years ago, my semblance activated, and people thought I was a Grimm-human hybrid. Yet, You stood by me," I reminded her," Why are you treating me differently now?"
"I-I," She wanted to argue but stopped in her tracks.
"My mother used the last of her life to send me here," I lied," The same way she has dropped you off."
"Last of her-"Umber paled," No! It can't be! You mean her aura is depleted, right?"
I took a deep breath as I began my cover story.
" An Atlesian shot you. After you broke into the interrogation room," I watched as she placed a hand over her stomach," Enraged, I used my semblance to break free and fought my way out with you on my back."
She looked down speechless, seemingly recalling that night.
"I called my mother to come to save you, and she dropped you off here while I continued my mission onboard the ship. It was a failure," I took a moment to collect myself and omit specific details like how Vernal took down the engine and how my mother pulled her to safety," The ship went down when a swarm of Grimm overwhelmed the defenses. In desperation, I was forced to fight alongside the Atlesians."
"Why didn't she save you?" Umber questioned," And Vernal? That coward abandoned us, didn't she! That brat left us on the ship."
That is why I omitted that detail. I needed to craft my story in a certain way that wouldn't aggravate Umber. The idea that my mother would willingly save Vernal is foreign to her. She wouldn't believe the rest of my story. It would be better to set up a separate cover story for Vernal. I know she wants to run away from all this madness, and I'm happy to help her.
"The reason why she wasn't able to save me has to do with a coordinated assault from Salem," Her name left my mouth. Umber's palpable rage turned into icy hate," I saw Grimm darkening the very landscape and skies. Countless lives were lost to these monsters. If it wasn't for my semblance, I'd be dea-busy fighting them for a long time."
"What happened next?"
"The younger and weaker Grimm ignored me, but I still killed any that got close. I fought Chimera Grimm, upgraded Alpha's, and escaped with the survivors. Where I was 'escorted' to their military base," I revealed," I was questioned for two days, and Ironwood tried to arrest me. Luckily, Ms. Malachite bailed me out in the nick of time."
"Wow, That's nice of her, but Raven told us to never trust her."
"I didn't either, but I don't have a choice in the matter."
"But what about your mom? My leader?"
My next part is my own theory on why my mother and uncle were in that town. All the puzzle pieces point toward a planned assault, and my uncle happens to be at the right place but at the wrong time. The majority of the tribes are concentrated down south, while smaller cells wage guerilla warfare throughout the kingdom. Clearly, This wasn't something my mother or anyone involved would talk about openly. I suspect they only told me outdated intel that I could feint ignorant with if I was ever captured.
"There is a small town in central Anima. It was a secret staging area for a surprise attack on the capital," I continued," Sadly, It was also the epicenter of Salem's army. They hid in the vast cave network long before the tribe occupied the land above. I don't know whether the local tribesmen caught him or the Grimm attacked first. All I know is that my mother teleported into that town after rescuing you and was immediately overwhelmed."
"You didn't know she was trapped there for two days? But Grimm don't-"
"Don't take hostages unless they're directly under Salem command," I interrupted," I told Malachite the same thing when she took me to the front line. As I was saying, Due to my semblance, I became almost invisible to most Grimm. Ms. Muffintop offered me a deal to save my uncle and mother while wiping out the stronger Grimm. I accepted it."
"Something is not adding up," She pointed out," Why would you do something so suicidal and for our enemies? And didn't you say you dislike the tribe?"
"Are you doubting my combat prowess to fight millions of Grimm?" This sounds extremely arrogant, but since this is Umber…
"NO! You absolutely could."
"Good because," I try to speak, but I know the next sentence is going to weigh on me," I studied the history of what the tribe once was, and I could respect it. None of it exists anymore, and my mother did nothing but make it worse. So tell me, Umber, Am I really betraying the tribe, or have the tribe betrayed the freedom fighters they once were?"
"You're right," She stuttered.
"Thank you, Umber."
"Do you still love her?" Her question caught me off guard.
I found it hard to keep a straight face as we looked directly into each other's eyes. I know the answer, but it hurts to admit when I wanted to convince myself of the exact opposite. I want to treat my mother as another target to eliminate. I killed my mother at her most vulnerable. When I knew she truly loved me.
All I do is kill.
"Yes, I love her," I uttered while keeping my emotions under control. A smile spread across Umber's face, and she nodded. She moved around me and sat at the top of the stairs. Yet her body language told me she was still tense.
"I'm getting tired of standing," She complained," Please sit with me."
I sat next to her.
A minute of silence stood between us.
"Is she dead?" Umber whimpered," Your mother. Exhausted or not, She is too skilled to be killed so easily."
The word hangs in the air like stalagmites in a cave. Umber is using my own investigative skills against me. I-I hope she doesn't realize I'm the killer. If she finds out. I don't think any moment of persuasion or tears will keep her from being my enemy.
"That's the truth. She didn't make it."
"...Please continue."
"I received what I needed beforehand. I got a new sword from my mother and an outfit from Ms. Malachite. Those were early birthday gifts. I fought alongside the coalition of kingdoms and was airdropped near the town. It was defended by a swarm of Nevermore. Those things created an impenetrable wall, a living tornado. As I slaughtered thousands of Grimm, my mother somehow broke free long enough to bring me directly into the town. Salem was present, and so was one of her lackeys, the murderer herself," I watched Umber's body tense up.
"Did you kill her?"
"I'm getting to that part."
"Sorry."
"The townspeople and the tribesmen were forced to fight to the death in her makeshift arena. My uncle was one of the participants and the last one standing," I said with a somber tone.
I decided to omit the detail that I stabbed myself. I can't say Cinder Falls was able to fatally injure me. The thought of a severe injury inflicted on me would make her question the story. Plus, My kimono lacks any stab wounds for me to show. I could lie about my body temperature and scarless body being part of my semblance, but I can't explain how my outfit is mended. The only explanation for why my outfit is undamaged is because I'm just that skilled.
I have to play into her perception of Akame the Shinigami.
"I'm sorry. I tried my best to save her," I looked down in guilt," That coward killed my mother at her most vulnerable and while Qrow and I were distracted fighting the Grimm. At least that's what I recall."
I looked up to see Umber narrowing her eyes at me.
"Have you heard of the Apathy?" I asked her.
She visibly shuddered.
"Because Salem created something similar and arguably much worse. They're called 'Insanity' Grimm. They affect mental state and perception of reality," I revealed truthfully," Those things are the reason why my mother can't escape, and how messy the whole situation was. That town is also where Salem had her most elite Grimm known as Chimeras."
"How did you survive?"
"I inflicted enough casualties on Salem forces for the three kingdoms to pick up the scraps," I explained," Salem and the killer escaped once her elite forces engaged the kingdom's."
"Is this where it is about to end?" She inquired," What happened to the traitorous Qrow?"
"Knocked unconscious in the fighting," I revealed. I hope Uncle Qrow is okay. I still need answers from him," It was around this time the coalition entered the town and my mother...she was fatally wounded."
"And after she dropped you off here," She quivered," She left?"
"Sis!" Ruby suddenly opens the door and yells into the house," Umber! What's taking you so long-"
"Ruby," my father said," Let them talk it out."
Ruby whined before gently closing the door again.
"I'm going to wrap this up," I concluded," She wants us to start anew. This place, Patch, is our new home. If it wasn't, why didn't she drop you-I mean us off anywhere else?"
"That's-" I interrupted her.
"The truth is right in front of us," I decided to nail my point," Are you going to defy the dying wish of my mother? My wish for happiness? A direct order?"
"The tribe…"
"Are none of our concern," I explained while considering my next sentence," Because we're together."
I feel awful for manipulating Umber like this. It isn't different from what the tribe has done. No, This feels like I'm emulating Salem.
Back then, She was brainwashed and any attempt to break her fanaticism would've been noticed under my mother, Malachite, or the tribe's watchful eyes back then. Even if I avoided all that, Umber would just tell someone. She is my closest friend and my mother's spy.
Now that all that is gone, I need to get her off the wrong path.
"If she wanted us to return to the tribe, Why didn't she drop us off at the stronghold down south, a secret outpost, or even at Malachite castle? Some of our own kin are already there," I reasoned. Although it did bring up the question. Why wasn't Umber sent anywhere else, and why was Vernal back in the castle. It's smarter if they were both sent to South Anima.
I stood up and reached out to her. She looked at my hand and tentatively brought her own hand up.
What I'm doing…I hate it, but it must be done.
"I'm sorry for doubting you," She said meekly.
I closed my eyes and thought about the consequences. If Umber found out about what I've done and hated me for the rest of her life, I'll understand and won't need forgiveness. As long as she isn't my enemy because there is only one way it will end. I will eliminate her.
"Let's go outside," I gently led her downstairs," Our new family is waiting."
Mistral
Normal PoV
Akame Branwen is an enigma to the general public. Akame's action is nothing short of spectacular and infamous, while tales and rumors elevated the mystery surrounding her. But there's one thing clear to Glynda Goodwitch: Akame Branwen wants to be granted a second chance. Now that's far from possible with the fake story Lil Ms. Malachite has crafted to scapegoat the poor girl.
She remembers Milly Malachite standing in front of international TV, congratulating herself and Remnant for saving the kingdom. How she talks of peace and unity in front of her supporters, hired extras, and paid journalists. She spoke of sweeping reform to demolish an ineffective government but did not clarify the steps. Milly insisted she dismantled the major crime syndicates even if she merely got rid of her rivals and became ruler of the rest.
The beep and whine of medical equipment reminded the huntress of her colleague's condition. Luckily, his breathing is normal, wounds healed, heart rate stabilized, and wasn't on life support. The doctor explained he needed extended rest.
She looked down and sighed.
She would prefer if Qrow rested a little longer. It would be heartbreaking for him to learn that his attempt to bring Akame home was for nothing. Glynda doubts she could hide the truth for long because Akame would be the first thing he asks for and the spotlight of the news, again.
The criminal defended her action to send Akame to the front line for the greater good. She had testimony from survivors of the airship, Dauntless, including Specialist Cordovin, to confirm Akame's skills. She piled on proof and reasoning that a 10-year-old isn't in any real danger because her semblance kept her safe from Grimm. She also gives a half-truth about Akame agreeing to fight alongside the coalition only to backstab them on the battlefield.
The proof is two bodies linked to Akame's sword.
Glynda knows Malachite lied about Akame killing the 'handlers' and disappearing into the swarm of Grimm during the chaos. Even hinting at Akame killing more huntsmen as she escaped.
She crafted a tale of the villainous shinigami. Who aided her bandits in pillaging and oppressing the defenseless people of Anima.
All the lies and slanders make the combat instructor want to twist Malachite's neck like a champagne cork.
The huntress wanted to stop the madness, but it could doom the peace and unity of Remnant. While fracturing the group even more. Despite the slander, Akame is well-liked in Vacuo and Mantle. Utterly hated in Atlas and half of Mistral. With opinion being mixed in Menagerie and Vale.
The situation isn't black and white anymore.
A gentle knock on the door took Glynda out of her musing.
"Can I come in?" The men in white asked.
"Come in, James," She called out. Ironwood entered the room with a frown. There were bags underneath his eyes as well as his slightly disheveled uniform. He crosses his arm with a heavy sigh as his eyes wander from Glynda to Qrow.
"Ms. Malachite is being truthful," He revealed," The meeting she set up between Salem and Ozpin has cleared her of all our suspicions. She is \ on our side, and Lionheart is the traitor."
"What did she say to convince you, Ozpin, and Fang to trust her?" She clenched her fist," We have been trying to put her and other criminal organizations down ever since this operation started."
"She tricked Salem into giving us valuable intel by using Watts as bait," He explained," Salem wasn't there personally. She sent some sort of floating Grimm orb, a seer as Ozpin called it, and a small pack of Beowulf's. But even if she came, We would have killed her with all of us available."
"James," She narrowed her eyes," We don't know her full capability."
"Have faith, Glynda," He assured," Isn't that what you teach your students?"
"I teach them what it means to be protectors of humanity," She countered," Don't confuse arrogance from power with the will to strive forward. Even if there is no hope left."
The room fell silent until the combat instructor spoke again.
"Sorry," She apologized," I have a lot on my mind."
"We all do. Watts is currently en route to Atlas as we speak," He explained," And…We received intel from South Anima. There is a new leader of the Branwen Tribe after they announced the passing of Raven Branwen."
Glynda perked up after hearing the news. At the very least, One woman she hated with a passion has now died.
"Who is it?" She uttered, hoping it wasn't Akame.
"Vernal Easter," He revealed," The Spring Maiden and Lionheart killer."
She breathes a sigh of relief before the realization hits her.
"VERNAL?!"
As much as Lionheart's death impacted the general public, it became a blessing to the group. Even if she wishes Malachite was lying about his involvement, it can't be understated how efficient her information-gathering skill is.
"Yes, He was killed by an icicle piercing his throat," He continued," Fang investigated the crime screen. There were no traces of dust around the wound, leading Fang to believe that the icicle was magical in its creation. Even when he melted it down and tested for traces of ice dust. I would like to believe Vernal had gone rogue. "
"And now we have a 'potentially' rogue Maiden, James," She countered," Did she do it willingly, or was she forced?"
"I doubt she did it willingly, but regardless, She's his killer," He explained," My meeting with her was brief, but she couldn't hurt a fly. She's likely a figurehead within the tribe. But that was four years ago, and people change."
"She's ten!" Glynda countered.
"And she's responsible for dooming the Dauntless," He snapped back," Video and testimony from the wreckage and survivors clearly show she made her way to the engine room before the explosion. And the next time she appeared was back in Mistral. I'm not going to say she murdered Lionheart or killed several thousand Atlesian in cold blood. I'm saying she's being manipulated. The same for Akame, who clear-likely had fallen under Salem control."
"We don't know if that's true."
"We watched Salem lift her off the ground and infused her with unknown black liquid, and the next time we saw her, She ate Grimm. We were on the same battlefield watching all those Grimm get absorbed into her," He reasoned," And Vernal is compromised. Those are clear, tangible facts."
"James," She stood up," For four years, there has been a rumor that Akame is a Grimm. That wasn't the case when your men did a medical examination on her. She is as human as the both of us."
"What about now? You can't ignore what we both saw."
"If we find her again, then we will run another examination," She continued," The Grimm absorption we saw could be a part of her semblance, and unless Ozpin says otherwise-"
"He isn't saying anything," Ironwood fired back," Ozpin kept his mouth shut about the whole ordeal. I don't know what he saw, but it frightened him."
"I'm still keeping my word," Glynda affirmed," We aren't here to treat her like a new species of Grimm. Unless proven otherwise, She deserves a second chance like me. The same applies to Vernal, too."
"I'm giving Akame a second chance," He lectured," If we bring her back, We'll get to the bottom of what happened to her and try to remedy the situation. If she is still human that's fine, but if Akame is a new form of Grimm. Something similar to Salem. Either she retains her humanity, or else we'll terminate her."
Ironwood wasn't convinced Akame is salvageable. After seeing what happened to her on the recording. He suspects Akame killed her mother, yet there hasn't been any intel, even in South Anima, confirming if it's true or a body to investigate. From his perspective, She disappeared from an active battlefield, surrounded by hundreds of Huntsmen and thousands of Militias and Atlesian soldiers. If her mother died, how could she escape?
He doesn't know if she escaped via the tunnels, captured by Salem, or teleported to South Anima. But if Raven is dead, it would be one less loose end. Ironwood just found it disturbing if Akame did it. A child plotting to kill their own mother raised a lot of questions.
Another part of him wonders if she can still become a valuable asset to Atlas. Executing Akame could be a waste of humanity's best warrior. Maybe her semblance or whatever she did to those Grimm could be studied for the benefit of Remnant?
"Are you making some kind of deal?"
"It's fair and logical," He explained," I already spoke to Ms. Malachite and the others about this. Ozpin is still undecided while the rest are on board. Remember Glynda, The world is divided because of her, whether you want to believe it or not. We need to take care of this situation one way or the other. Do you accept it?"
"You already know the answer," She stood firm.
"I understand," He acknowledged," And I need to tell you that it isn't just Akame or Vernal who need saving."
"James, I tried calling child protective services on Lil Ms. Malachite. It never works."
"It's-Wait what?"
"Ignore it."
"Well *ahem*," Ironwood dryly coughed," From the recovered security feed onboard the Dauntless, There was another little girl with Akame and Vernal. She has been identified as Umber Karolina, the daughter of Atlesian civilians and thus under Atlas jurisdiction to retrieve."
"And a bargaining chip for you to draw out Akame," She said bluntly.
"She would naturally become one if we brought her back to Atlas. Akame cares for Umber enough to kill one of my own men, who I will admit has stepped out of line."
"How far out of line?" She narrowed her eyes," When was this?"
"Onboard the Dauntless and after her capture. He threatened a restrained prisoner and shot Umber after she fell out of the vents," He spoke with anger in his voice," I would've shot him if I was in that same room."
"And the current whereabouts and condition of Umber?"
"Unknown, same with Akame," He revealed," Worst case scenario, Umber died in that town, and Akame is with Salem."
"These poor kids," Glynda whispered under her breath.
"It's the world we live in, Glynda," He sighed," I just wish one day, Humanity can be free from the darkness."
She looked at the clock and noticed it was about to be 4 PM. Mistral needed to be repaired, and her semblance made the process quicker.
"I will take my leave now, James," She stood up," I'm glad we are having this conversation, but it is time for me to help with rebuilding this kingdom."
Glynda was nearly out of the door when her scroll vibrated. It was a video sent from an unknown sender.
"Glynda? What's wrong?"
"A video," She tightened her lips," It has somehow been sent to my scroll."
"Don't do anything," He warned as he lifted his hand, beckoning her to hand the scroll over," It could be a malicious program."
Glynda was apprehensive about tapping the play button until curiosity got the better of her. She observed the video title, and it became clear who it was.
HF: En Umbra.
Hui Fang could be the sender.
"James," She looked directly into his eyes," It's Fang."
She sighed and pressed play.
It took a full minute for the video to load, but once it did.
Glynda Goodwitch was left speechless.
Unbeknownst to them, Qrow clenched his fist.
Haven Academy
Headmaster Fang Hui Office
Fang took a sip from his teacup as he looked across from him. A dozen huntsmen and huntresses stood ready to end his life. The headmaster is unphased by the killing intent.
"Come sit, Ms. Councilwoman," He beckoned," Or would you prefer to be called something else? Empress, maybe?"
"Why?" Ms. Malachite stepped forward, and the wall of Huntsmen parted," You realized that you stole classified information from the Government, right? I have every right to arrest you for treason with the people's blessing."
Fang closed his eyes, knowing the public distrusted him while Malachite had the majority on her side. He knows that none of the staff or students are willing to stand with him. He doesn't blame them, nor is he worried.
"Intel that I edited before leaking," He explained," It will doom everyone if I release the raw footage with radio chatter and Salem appearance. You could weather the storm long enough to get me killed, and I would lose support from Ozpin. The video I leaked is nothing more than an hour and a half of Akame slaughtering Grimm."
"And you expect me to stand by after that?!"
"Yes," He responded bluntly," Milly Malachite. If I had my way, you wouldn't get this much power. Mistral would be saved from corruption and crime. If Ozpin hadn't been holding me back, I would have fulfilled the dream of unity."
"What you wanted was genocide."
"Genocide? No, You're wrong, Milly. It is my sworn duty to eliminate all evil. It is the motto of the heroes of the past. The same hunters who dismantled Salem's Empire in ancient times. I'm merely following it. Lionheart saw my intent was pure and invited me into the group even as a former enemy," He recalled and sighed. He is loyal to Ozpin's ideal of peace, But Fang disagrees on how it must be achieved. He realized the wizard is too complacent and soft on his approach. They need to be proactive in snuffing out potential recruits for Salem.
"Foolish, Even if you eliminate all evil, there will always be one left," She chuckled dryly," Ironic isn't it? What you fought against is now the one to fulfill your desire. This…I wouldn't even call it a betrayal because I never trusted you. It can still be to my advantage. Now all of Remnant knows the Shinigami live up to the rumors. Akame is now a credible threat."
"More like perverting it to fit your needs. I recommend cooperation. Even in death, I'll make you suffer."
Various guns were switched off the safety, and melee weapons were slowly raised against him. Fang knows he could run or fight his way out. But he will die. The headmaster had a stone expression, but fear gripped him internally.
"I still have the original video with transcripts," He reminded Malachite," I have it sent to someone if I don't leave this room alive."
"You're lying."
"Do you want to take the risk?" He growled," Either we reunify Mistral on equal terms, or we both die."
Of course, He did lie to Ms. Malachite. The video he sent to an ally and a former enemy was the unedited version. He barely got started on the edited one.
Silence permeated the office until Ms. Ma+lachite spoke up again.
"You win, Fang," She admitted," You have ensured your continued survival and my respect."
Fang smiled. He wouldn't be discarded by the crime boss. The headmaster is surrounded by enemies and uneasy allies. The headmaster has always been the Black Sheep of the inner circle.
Only Ozpin shows the slightest increment of trust. Fang still adamantly believed what he was doing was right. Lionheart's faith in him was what kept him from being sent to prison or exiled.
A frightening thought crosses his mind. If Lionheart betrayed him, the public and even the group wouldn't think much of it. Almost as if it's expected of a man like him. Lionheart's judgment wouldn't be questioned even by Ozpin. A shiver ran down his spine.
In an alternate timeline, He is a dead man.
"Has this interrogation concluded?" He sighed," I would like to continue packing for my vacation. I need time to mourn the loss of my old friend. Afterward, We will talk about moving forward on equal, transparent terms."
Malachite understood Fang needed leverage. Without it, He would be at her mercy at all times. If Fang was forced to resign as headmaster, Malachite could appoint a sympathetic supporter. Even Ozpin couldn't do anything about it lest he risks destroying the peace he holds dear.
"Fang, Those people you killed to retrieve the video," She brought up," They had family and in no way affiliated with my illicit side."
The man paused and turned around.
"And? Their loyal service to you is enough reason," he fired back," I don't think Grandpa Malachite would be happy to know what you're doing either?"
If their one thing Fang will always commit to is eliminating all evils but will never raise a hand against the side of good. In fact, He has nothing but respect for the team of trainees that stopped him. He started collecting paperwork and files into a briefcase.
"Where are you going?" She questioned.
"Vale," Fang answered," The weather's nice this time of year."
"You can't just leave!" She yelled," This will reflect poorly on you."
"And?" he latched his collapsible spear onto his back," My reputation is about to be buried alongside Lionheart. It can't get any lower. There will be a demand for a new headmaster no matter what I do. But I could count on you for job security? Maybe another seat once you expand your power?"
"Yes, Anything for an ally," She gritted her teeth," It will be an uphill battle."
"I trust you know what you're doing," he weaved past Malachite agents," This kind of battle should be easy for you."
Once he stood at the doorway, he turned around and bowed, "Now you're free to audit."
Once he was out the door, Ms. Malachite let out a loud scream. Seconds later, he walked out the front door of the main building and half jogged out of the campus. The next moment, Fang sprinted out as far as he could from the school. Fang jumped on rooftops, transverse down steep hills, narrow alleys, and leaped over barricades. He entered the most damaged section of the city, alive with activity. He ran past Huntsmen, Militia patrols, and Atlas knights.
The landscapes were torn to shred by Grimm, maidens, and artillery. He didn't stop until he was deep in the forest.
Fang is considered one of the strongest huntsmen in the Academy, but it isn't from power alone. He's a schemer, and duelist, who stacks the advantage in his favor before the battle starts. Even his fighting style is methodical: analyzing and dismantling the opponent with quick jabs and feints. All in all, he's a huntsman who excels against a single opponent.
It is a fighting style that makes up for his shortcoming. He's a late entry into the Academy.
Fighting multiple well-trained opponents will end badly for him.
The headmaster stopped to catch his breath. He took a moment to recollect how he got to this point. Everything he did was for the sake of Mistral.
He is the huntsman rumored to have killed more humans than Grimm.
The vermin's lurking in alleys, vultures scrapping for power, and pests in the countryside. They must be purged like Grimm. He isn't planning to restore the monarchy nor rule over Mistral. Fang wants to free the continent from all the evils of both humans and Grimm.
Fang has never changed nor sought redemption even after joining Ozpin. He remained adamant to the ideal that good must triumph.
He will dispose of all evils.
Akame PoV
It has been two weeks since I got home. The happiest two weeks in both lifetimes that I can recall and so far. Besides light exercise, I forgo any training to spend time with them. Of course, I would need to keep my mind and body ready again when the time comes.
I could see the scattered moon in the afternoon sky.
He's hiding up there, occasionally peeking down at this planet. I could tell when his eyes were on me.
Meanwhile, the sun hides the other brother. According to the Dark Lord, He's currently sitting on top of the sun staring down at me.
This would explain why the sun rays felt more intense the last few weeks. Even if the temperature for everyone else was moderate with a cool breeze. It constantly feels like he is holding in his divine wrath against this single mortal. It's manageable, but I can't imagine what summer or a trip to Vacuo would be like. The only time I felt respite was when it was nighttime.
I yawned, feeling drowsy.
"Good afternoon, Sis," Yang jumped into our bedroom and hugged me," You are such a sleepyhead."
"Morning Yang," I greeted her as I tentatively searched for my toothbrush.
" Sleepppyy," She poked my cheek," It's 6 PM in the afternoon."
I mentally facepalmed.
"Oh," Was the only response I could muster.
I couldn't bring myself to sleep last night. I stayed awake the entire morning to make them breakfast. After that was helping Umber and dad with household chores and yard work. I think I fell asleep a bit before 12 PM.
I have been testing my newfound curse in private. It's all simple things like aura manipulation, temperature check, and physical tests. Nothing too invasive or extreme.
I found a razor blade once and performed a test after everyone was asleep. I only needed to cut my index finger deep enough to draw blood.
To my surprise, My blood isn't completely black but a dark shade of red. This means my normal blood is intermixed with Salem's.
I rubbed the single droplet between my thumb and index finger. It doesn't even act like blood as it feels slimy and absorbs right into my skin, leaving behind no trace of the cut from earlier. I didn't even have my aura active, yet it healed itself.
Could I purge this vile blood out of my body?
I repeated the test by getting rid of a single drop. The droplet of blood stopped midair and shot back up into my freshly healed finger.
Damn it.
Another test was with a thermostat I found in a medical kit in the kitchen. I'm cold to the touch, but my inside isn't too bad. It's a worrying 26 Celsius, Mistral/Atlas standard, or roughly 78.8 Fahrenheit for Vale/Vacuo standard. That isn't normal.
Another notable change is my aura sensing, at least the quantity of a person's aura if I look at them and concentrate. My father has the most aura, as expected of an experienced huntsman. While Yang and Ruby came in second and third, respectively. Umber's aura level is abysmally low.
How am I even alive?
I may not even be human anymore.
I can't push my newfound curse to its limit at home.
"Remnant to Akame," Yang lightly tapped my head.
"I'm awake, Yang," I smiled and turned toward her," Sorry, I'm still a little sleepy."
"Eh," she shrugged," Anyway, Akame. How good of a fighter are you?"
I thought about my answer. I can't tell Yang the exaggerated story Umber knows.
"I got a custom-made sword from mom," I grabbed the hairbrush," I'm decent."
"Mom," I could faintly hear Yang whisper under her breath. It was filled with sadness and anger.
Our father tried his best to keep the news from reaching this household.
But Yang and Ruby would have to head into town for groceries, friends, and school. It is bound to happen eventually. That's how I found out Yang is a stubborn and determined girl. Yang would have already known about the situation in Mistral and my involvement. The CCT can almost instantly exchange communication between kingdoms, after all.
"Akame," She said solemnly," When I first read and then watched the incident four years ago."
"When I murdered someone?" I spoke bluntly," What of it?"
"I wasn't sure if you were my sister," Yang revealed," But it was like I was looking at something missing."
This better not imply she is one of my fragments.
"There were a lot of harsh words about you and as your older sister," She puffed out her chest proudly," I must protect you even if you could protect yourself."
Cute except for…
"Yang, We are twins," I deadpanned.
"Don't give me the cold shoulder, sis," She joked," I'm taller!"
"We aren't even done growing yet, Yang."
"Nope, I don't know if it is a lack of eating or milk drinking with those bandits. But you're barely taller than Ruby," She explained.
I narrowed my eyes at her logic. I ate well in Malachite castle, and I did drink milk. This is just a case of genetics, somehow.
I slowly got out of bed and made my way to the bedroom door. I could hear dad playing with Zwei in the living room.
"Dad!" I yelled," Who came out first?"
I waited a few seconds before he yelled back.
"What is this all about sweetheart?" He said.
"Yang thinks she is older because she is taller!"
"Firecracker," He continued," Akame came first."
Yang instantly deflated, and I patted her on the shoulder.
"I'm sorry, little sister," I smiled," But you are the bigger sister."
"Thank you!" She straightened up. A smug smile adorns her face.
"Don't get bigger here," I quickly pinched Yang's love handle and walked away.
"HEY!" She screamed, and her hair burst into flames.
"So that's how you two are sisters," I look out of the room to see Umber holding a tray of food in one hand and a notebook on the other," Hot and cold."
She gave a happy smile at our antic.
I smiled back at her.
I didn't want to let her go.
Flashback
"Dad," I sat on his bed as he browsed the dustnet," It wouldn't work out. She won't be happy."
I crossed my arms.
"I understand you have known each other since you were babies, but Umber needs to see her true family too," He sighed.
"Her mom and dad are dead! I know that is true because the tribe, my mother, confirms it with proof," I responded," She can't leave. There is nothing for her to return to."
I know it's the truth because I overheard it when I was very young. I think around 3-4. There wasn't any reason for the tribe to lie. They often proudly boast about the people they killed or 'found' dead.
Patch is a safe zone from Grimm and any enemies that will use her against me. If she is far away from my protection, I could lose her.
"What proof?" He inquired.
"I saw their corpses, dad!" I lied," It's burned into my memory."
His shoulder tense, and he uttered a few words under his breath.
"I'm sorry."
He regretted asking me the question and changed the subject.
"Ironwood…The Kingdom of Atlas has renewed its search for its missing citizen. According to them, She has relatives that are still searching for her," He revealed," I can't keep her here forever. It's international law, Akame. She is a child who still has family back in Atlas. I want her to be a part of this family, but I can't, in good conscience, take her away from her people. It wouldn't be fair to them."
Ironwood!
So he made a move to lure me out.
"So what?" I uttered," She is a wanted criminal like me. Atlas will arrest her before even sending her to her relatives! Also, Why would her family want her back?"
"Because they still love her as much as I still love you," He answered, and I was left speechless," And second, What crime did she commit? Is there something she has done that the public isn't aware of?"
My mouth became dry, and my eyes started to water. I didn't want to cry over this. I have to tell dad what will happen to her if she leaves.
"No, She hasn't done anything to get arrested besides being a part of the tribe and my friend," I gritted my teeth. Minor thief isn't even going to be included since Vernal and Umber played video games the whole mission.
"So? What is the problem?" He asked," She was bought onboard an Atlas airship because she and another girl needed help. I can't see why anyone would harm her unless-"
"Dad," I investigated," When she got dropped off. Was she hurt?"
"Yes, She was bleeding badly," He Acknowledged and retrieved a plastic bag from his top drawer with a single bullet inside," Point 357 peacekeeper, standard round for Atlesian sidearms. Akame, That round would have even killed me if I had my aura down. Neither could it stay inside her body in a way that stops excessive bleeding. If it punched all the way through, She would have bled out within minutes with even worse internal damage. It's a miracle she's alive."
"A miracle?" I echoed. Umber must have focused every bit of her aura into a single spot to cushion the damage.
"A miracle," He answered back," Sweetheart, I think I'm starting to understand your concern. Why was she shot?"
"Being near me."
We looked into each other's eyes. He wanted more details but decided against it. Instead, we came to an agreement.
"I won't hand her over to Atlas," He compromised," But if she has a family. We need to find out for ourselves. I get it. Umber wouldn't want to leave, and I find it strange that her family hasn't made a public appearance."
"See?" I warned him," It's a trap."
"Regardless," He stood up," I'll continue to help locate her real family if there's any left."
"Or you don't do that."
"Akame Branwen," He spoke sternly.
"I don't like that last name," I looked down," Just first name."
"Akame Xiao Long?"
"No," I shook my head," I don't want to bring shame to yours."
I would like to stick to my old world naming system. I didn't need a surname to be tied to any family. I was fine before, and I will be fine now.
"My point is," He crossed his arms," If nothing turns up or I don't like what I see, I know a few people who can make the required documents for her to legally be my adopted daughter."
"Fine," I reluctantly agreed.
My mind briefly thought about the others. Maybe I should steal the twins away from their mom. Vernal would love it here. I even thought about Martha's son, Mercury. I want to save him as Martha's final wish. But I can't rush in even if I knew Marcus Black's location. He is a powerful assassin. I must be cautious.
Wait for me, Mercury. I'll come and save you.
"Good," He turned around and got back on his computer," Akame, You haven't got caught up on the news these last two weeks, right?"
"I want to keep my sanity," I reply seriously.
"It's best that I show you," He turned the monitor toward me.
The video took a few moments to load, and the title is LEAK COMBAT FOOTAGE: Shinigami.
Uploaded 2 days ago with 50 million views and like to dislike ratio of 2 to 1. I don't use the dust net often, but Remnant's population is slightly over 100 million, and somehow this video has that many views. It was posted by AnonLave.
I wonder what it is?
The video loads after a few mundane ads, and I didn't even know how to react.
The first few seconds, I know what it is.
My suicide mission inside the horde.
Shinigami…
I mentally facepalmed myself for forgetting that annoying nickname. A string of profanity would be preferred over being called a God of Death.
"Sweetheart," He gasped," You are gripping my shoulder too tight!"
I now realized I wasn't sitting on the bed but standing next to my dad with a single hand tightly gripping his shoulder. I relaxed and apologized.
"I'll be a-okay," he flexed his shoulder," Normally, I promise to not pry into your banditry life until you're ready, but I have to ask you. How. Did. You. Survive. THAT?"
He pointed at the screen with confusion and concern.
I took a deep breath.
"My semblance and determination is the only reason I'm alive."
"Okay," He deadpanned," This is real?"
"Yep, I was airdropped into my suicide mission to-"
"Wait! Wait! Wait! WHAT?! A suicide mission?" He looked shocked and slightly relieved," You were on a mission?"
"Yes?" I tilted my head in confusion," Did Ms. Muffintop say something else?"
I expected Malachite to slander me, but I was curious what it was.
"She said you murdered your handlers, and ran into the horde to rescue your mother," He revealed, barely containing his anger at Ms. Malachite," That bitch! Sorry for the profanity Akame."
Great, I'm being framed.
"I've gotten used to having bad luck, dad," I accepted," Everything I touch only makes it worse. So how bad did I mess up the world? Don't sugarcoat it."
I give my family time one month before I'm active again. I need to deal with the mess I made.
I once thought the world could resolve its own issues, including my own. Instead, it only festered. I left it in that state for four whole years, and Mistral may as well be a lost kingdom.
Now, how bad could my two weeks hiatus be?
He started typing on his computer, pulling up a few articles. The titles made me extremely worried.
A new reform in Mistral.
Anamesia Succession.
Civil disorder in Mantle.
Refugee Crisis.
"Do you really want to know?" He asked me.
"Yes," I said confidently. I can't sit around and do nothing again.
"What happened after you came home is-"
It only took my dad 30 minutes to get me up to date. Afterward, I couldn't sleep for the rest of the night.
A/N: Sorry if Akame came off as extremely manipulative but that's the point. She is learning and adapting. So instead of the original plot of a war-weary Akame refusing to fight. It's Akame forcing herself to fight because it is the only thing she knows. It is the theme of choice and redemption for Akame.
Hopefully, my updates are quicker. It's mostly going to be slice-of-life stuff.
R&R