Revolutionary HQ, Imperial South. 1 day before Tatsumi and Walker arrive
In the late afternoon, in the private chambers of Cesare, two individuals were once more having a heated debate over one of the key changes demanded by the Revolutionary Army once they have overthrown the Imperial Empire.
One individual is Cesare himself, sitting at his desk writing one of many orders to be delivered to the various Dark Ops units under his command in the coming days.
The other individual is a fellow Council member and a man Cesare has known all his life. He stood with his arms across his chest, attempting to change Cesare's mind in what would be another futile attempt.
They were both stubborn individuals after all.
The standing man has brown, medium length hair with black eyes and a long, youthful face. Wearing a dark khaki military uniform with a red cape with gold outlines and straps.
He is Cesare's twin brother: Caesar, the poster boy of the Revolutionary Army, head of their PR department (propaganda), unofficial head of the Council, and the person behind the whole revolutionary movement.
"As I have stated before, he has to die in order for our new government to form." The leader of the Dark Ops stated matter of fact-like, quill pen moving fast in his left hand as he hastened to finish his work.
Caesar shook his head in protest. "He is a child, Cesare!"
Cesare let out a tisk, annoyed he have to go through this whole conversation again.
"Yes, brother. He is a child. A child that has been lead by the nose to conduct the worst kinds of atrocities this country has seen in 500 years. Further more, his negligence has allowed this corruption to fester into the heart of the Empire."
"That is all Honest's doing." Caesar countered. "The boy doesn't know any better. He only took the throne at the age of 6, too naive to know not to believe everything one tells him. We only need to take him into protective custody, teach him his wrongs and work with him to correct these mistakes."
"Agreed. The boy doesn't know any better." Cesare nodded. "For that, we shall execute Honest and all his fellow cronies first. Then, the boy. The people demand it."
"Cesare we cannot just kill the Emperor!" Caesar took a step forward, throwing a hand to his side. "The nobility, the royalists, they will not stand for it! We need them to ensure a simple transition without needless bloodshed!"
"Then well shall kill them along with everyone else that threatens our New Kingdom."
Caesar shook his head with a sad look on his face. "So that's it? Kill everyone that doesn't agree with us? How does that make us any better than the current government? Tell me that, Cesare."
Cesare snapped his quill pen. He sharply turned in his seat. "How are we different? Let me inform you, again." He rose from his seat, nearly knocking it on the floor as he quickly paced to his firm faced twin.
Cesare spoke with pure venom, poking his brother's chest with each point he made.
"We are different, because we kill those who must die! Not anyone that we dislike such as these fat politicians whom gleeful carry out such atrocities in the Empire for far too long!"
"We are different, because we bring hope to a people who know nothing but suffering!"
"We are different, because we work to correct the mistakes of the past and ensure they will never be made again!"
"We are different, because everything we do is done with purpose! Every step connected to bring about a better tomorrow!"
"IF you are telling me that this is all pointless, that every evil I committed for this dream of yours was in vain, then how the hell am I to live with myself with all this blood on my hands?!"
Cesare grabbed Caesar by the collar, bringing his face close.
"HOW DO I CONTINUE ON KNOWING I HAVE KILLED BOTH MONSTERS AND MEN?! INNOCENT AND EVIL?! TELL ME BROTHER! TELL ME THERE'S A DIFFERENT, LOGICAL PATH TO FOLLOW AND I WILL GLADLY CAST ASIDE ALL I HAVE PLANNED! IS THERE SUCH A PATH?! IS THERE?! HUH, BROTHER?!"
"NO, THERE IS NOT! NOT ONE WITHOUT THROWING EVERYTHING WE HAVE BUILT OVER THE YEARS, ALL THE LIVES AND DREAMS WE HAVE ACCUMULATED FORGING THIS REVOLUTION TO THE WAYSIDE ON NOTHING BUT NAIVE HOPES AND FOOLISH GAMBLES!"
"CONTINUE TO DREAM BROTHER! TELL ME YOUR FOOLISH TALES AS I FORGE THEM TO TRUTH! I SHALL BE THE RATIONAL ONE AND DO WHAT NEEDS TO BE DONE TO MAKE YOUR CHILDISH IDEALS A SOUND REALITY!"
"AND IF I SAY THE EMPEROR NEEDS TO DIE TO MAKE YOUR DREAMS A REALITY, THEN HE NEEDS TO DIE! DID YOU FINALLY GET THAT THROUGH YOUR THICK SKULL, HUH BROTHER?!"
The twins kept their eyes locked with one another for the entire ordeal and long minutes after.
Neither saying a word in this battle of wills for a long time after the younger said his peace.
Finally, with that same determined gaze he had since he first decided to fight against the fate of this nation, Caesar gave his one word reply.
"No."
Cesare's nostrils flared in spite. His grip tighten around his brother's collar, half lifting his older twin up in the air. All the while, that same stubborn look never left Caesar's face.
After what felt like an eternity, Cesare forced himself to relax, taking several deep breaths.
"...You are impossible..." He muttered, closing his eyes as he let Caesar go. Cesare turned around, readjusting his hair and clothes.
"Apologies for that unsightly behavior. I should remain professional despite our differing views on that particular subject."
"Nothing I am not used to seeing, brother." Caesar replied with a slight grin. "Good to know somethings never change."
Cesare shook his head with a chuckle. "You truly are impossible, you know that? No wonder we all foolishly gathered around your banner."
Caesar shrugged. "I say its thanks to my charisma."
"Oh it's certainly something." Cesare, turned half his body back to his twin. "Enough of this for now. Best be off to the daily meeting."
"Yay, politics, my favorite pastime." Caesar replied with a laugh, marching out of the room with his twin on his heels.
The twins marched down the mostly straight corridor leading to the Council room when the spotted a fellow member of the Council entering from a room off to their left.
"Good evening, Arthur." Caesar said in greeting, nodding as they grew close.
"Greetings, Caesar and Cesare." Arthur replied, falling into step along the twins. "I trust the day has been well for you two."
"Nothing more than the usual." Caesar soundly answered. "Are you alright? You seem tired."
"Well being in charge of both Diplomatic and Logistics departments of the army can be quite draining at times." Arthur replied with a laugh. "To be honestly, I have had trouble finding ample time to sleep these past few weeks."
Caesar nodded sympathetically. "I am sure given the last obstacle to our general offensive has been removed thanks to the efforts of Night Raid."
"Indeed. The final preparations never seem to end." Arthur continued, closing his eyes with a sigh.
"Are all armies properly equipped? Everything up to standard? Enough munitions available for the march? Are the horses properly feed and do we have everything needed to keep them so throughout the whole ordeal? How are the carts we shall use to transport men and material? Do any of our swords, armor, food, water, medical supplies, clothes, and so on need to be replaced or updated with the newest edition we can afford? These are but a handful of our every growing issues."
"Truly a tiring and unforgiving task." Cesare cut in. "Also, I've been meaning to ask you; how was the representative of the Southern Confederation?"
Arthur let out a sigh, answering as he rubbed a hand through his hair. "As rude a man as I remember from the days I thought I left behind."
"Ah..." Cesare mouthed. "A past that one cannot leave even after you cut ties. Truly a conundrum that plagued many in this day and age."
"I trust we shall hear the official stance of that monstrous power in the coming meeting?" Caesar asked.
"Correct, and apologies for not informing you all sooner." Arthur said with a nod. "As I hinted at, things have been...tiring."
"Better late then never, my friend." Caesar replied with a smile. "As long as we don't have to fight two fronts at once."
"On that, there's no need to worry." Arthur soundly answered. "I'm more concerned with the individual representative then the nation he represents at the moment."
"Should Axel prove to be...unsavory during his stay here, I ask that you leave him to me." Arthur looked directly into Caesar's eyes. "I am the only one who knows how that man operates, and given our history I would make the ideal bait to lore that troublesome man away."
"If such an even comes to pass and if that is what you desire Arthur, then I have no qualms with your proposal." Cesare replied, he turned his head slightly to his twin. "And you, brother?"
"I agree, if its what you think is best." Caesar added with a nod. "Now we best hurry, else we'll get an earful from Field Marshal Bifrost."
"Wouldn't do to get on the bad side of the all important Father of the Revolutionary Army." Cesare stated with a chuckle.
It took the better half of a dozen minutes to reach their destination. Already, the other four members of the Revolutionary Council gathered outside their meeting room.
The first to meet them was in fact the aforementioned Field Marshal Bifrost, Commander in Chief of the Revolutionary Army's regular forces. He is an elder man with blue-grey hair, sideburns and beard. He wares the standard Revolutionary Army outfit with a brown cape with black outlines.
A man with the most experience recruited into the Revolutionary Army. He is the one that put together the Logistic Corps, Infantry Doctrine, and Officer Corps. Biforst took the lead and truly turned these rebels into a professional fighting force, thus he is rightfully called the Father of the Revolutionary Army.
"About damn time." He muttered to the trio, turning around, heading through the slowly opening double doors and into the room beyond. With a sigh, Arthur and the two newest members of the Council followed after.
The twins glanced at each other, smirking before moving to join them.
"A moment, you two." The last member of the Council, Head of Intelligence and Strategy, and user of the Imperial Arms possessing the ability of clairvoyance approached the pair.
Miss Fortune, a woman as cryptic as her name suggests. She wore a purple cloak with gold outlines over top a pair of light colored pants with dark purple slip on shoes.
"I have news that you twins must hear."
"Of course, Miss Fortune." Caesar replied. "Anything for our residential clairvoyant."
"My gratitude, Caesar." She held out her open hands. "Last night, my Imperial Arms have revealed to me a rather alarming revelation."
Cesare took a step forward. "What sort of revelation?"
"One that shows us at a crossroads..." Miss Fortune began. "Before us stand two paths, one leads to the desired outcome, the other complete ruination for all."
"My crystal ball revealed as such, and spoke to me these very words:"
"In the days that follow, important visitors shall decide the course of the nation, for in their hands are the oars."
"Tragedy shall certainly fall should the passion of youthful vigor fail to convince the minds of the old guard. Thus, loss compounds upon loss."
"If such proves true, for the dawn of a better tomorrow the moon shall swallow the sun."
Cesare placed his hand upon his chin. "The moon shall swallow the sun..."
Caesar turned his head to his twin. "Quite ominous. What do you think of it Cesare?"
Cesare turned around, placing his hands in the small of his back. "I can only deduce the first half of the message more likely means our expected visitors from Night Raid...Unless we are expecting anyone else?"
Caesar shook his head. "No one but Night Raid and our recently arrived envoy."
"Troubling..." Cesare took a few steps forward. "If we are to take this message at face value, then these two assassins shall hold the the fate of the nation in their hands...Youthful vigor...perhaps that means Tatsumi, the younger of the two we are expecting."
"While I'm a tad offended to assume I am part of the old guard, does this mean Tatsumi will try to convince us of something?" Caesar asked. "Any idea what that could be?"
"I have an idea..." Cesare turned to face his brother. "It may have to do with our orders on a certain group that revealed itself as an ally to Night Raid."
"In that case, he will certainly fail." Caesar stated. "No one wishes to trust anyone within the current Imperial Government. You yourself stated as much."
"Indeed, though perhaps Tatsumi will reveal to us information we previously haven't heard. Like the true head of this organization, as I doubt it is this Joker individual as has been reported."
Cesare paced to his brother's side. "Best remain open minded in that case."
"And what of the last bit?" Caesar asked.
His twin lowered his gaze. "If Tatsumi should fail to convince the Council...The moon shall swallow the sun for the dawn of a better tomorrow..."
Realization formed on the Dark Ops Commander's face as he rose his gaze to meet his brother's.
"I am appalled to think thusly, yet if we follow this thought process, it means that Tatsumi will assassinate you."
Caesar rose his eyebrow in a disbelieving smile. "Come on Cesare, that's a poor joke. Why would one of your subordinates ever try to kill me? What even makes you think I'm this 'sun' anyway?"
"I have no doubt that you are the sun, brother." Cesare started. "You are the public face of the Revolutionary Army, practically the head of the Council, and founder of the revolution. Ask anyone to picture a single leader among us and it would be you without a doubt. Frankly, I would be alarmed if you weren't the sun in this prophecy."
"Fair points, and excellent flattery haha. Still, is Tatsumi truly this 'moon'?" Caesar asked, extending his hand. "I don't see how he can be the one simply for the fact that he is an assassin."
"Very true, I only assumed as much given the insignia of Night Raid." Cesare placed a hand upon his chin again. "Though, it might have said Owl of the Moon if it meant him specifically...if so...there are a number of individuals that could fit the role of 'moon'..." After a few moments, the Dark Ops Commander lowered his hand.
"This a matter I must debate upon later. Let us go, any longer and the Field Marshal shall surely burst through those doors and drag us into the ongoing meeting."
"That would be a sight wouldn't it?" Caesar added with a laugh. "Come then, Cesare, Miss Fortune, before we attract the wrath of the old wolf."
"And thank you for the warning." Cesare said to Miss Fortune. "I shall do what I must to prepare countermeasures against the unthinkable."
"Do as you must." Miss Fortune replied. "Note thusly however, that fate has a way of carrying out its predestined will regardless of what we mere mortals try to prevent it."
"I have chosen to warn of the coming storm. Whether this choice has set fate in stone or allow what I foresaw to change into a different destiny, is something only the gods know for true."
11 days after The Revolution began. Eastern Imperial Territories at a strategic chokepoint in route to Kyoroch...
The location chosen to stop the forces of the Path of Peace has some interesting history.
Once, this had been a long valley that served as a sort of halfway point between the Capital and Kyoroch. Within the year, the forces of Night Raid, the Jagears, Clockwork, and the Sons of Nors fought a battle here that left part of that valley shattered beyond any semblance of its former glory.
In the months that followed that event, great pains were taken to not only insure this path was once more clear but built from the valley floor up from the point of devastation to the end of the road facing toward the Capital.
A very uneconomical move, but when the patron of said project has nearly endless money, you just don't say no to that much cash regardless of how much of a pain the project is.
As planned, Captain Brigid and the 2 companies of Imperial Soldiers were awaiting General Heiscliff and their party of 50 fellow soldiers.
What waited in addition to these soldiers was an unexpected, yet welcome sight.
"Well, well, well..." General Heiscliff muttered, impressed with the sight before them. "Looks like someone has been busy."
"General Heiscliff!" An Imperial soldier called out as she approached on horseback. She had short cut, spiky, light gray hair, a wide scar across her nose, dark blue-gray eyes, and a youthful face that would easily cause other to mistake her as a boy.
This tomboy soldier pull her horse to a halt a respectable distance from the general, saluting once her mount settled.
"Captain Brigid, commander of 1st and 2nd Company of the Mid Eastern Occupation Army." In other words, the garrison troops for this sector. Lead by a rather young officer, as tend to be the case with the garrison. Far too young to be truly useful in war time, exceptions not withstanding.
"General Heiscliff, assigned to whatever hot mess this task was expected to be." The flamboyant general smirked. "Now however, I see something rather fabulous being constructed. Is this something you came up with on your own initiative, captain?"
Captain Brigid shook her head. "We were just as surprised as you general. Construction of the palisades, dug outs, and other fortifications you see before you began long in advance. As soon as 3 months ago if what we were told earlier is true."
"Any word on who assign these...civilian contractors?"
"That's the thing, general. They say they have been ordered and paid in full by Chairmen Fuyu." Captain Brigid scratched the side of her head. "For the life of me, I cannot figure out why the Chairmen of the Senate would do something like this."
General Heiscliff let out a single laugh. "It seems you have no idea who Chairmen Fuyu was before his current post. That man is a calculating demon, planning for the far future down to the last trivial detail. No doubt this is only the start of his plot."
"Captain Brigid!" Another Imperial Solider came running. "Ma'am, we have armored riders approaching from the Southwest. Around a hundred or so in number. They appear to be mercenaries."
"Mercenaries?" Captain Brigid managed to speak before another of her subordinates approached.
"Captain Brigid, we have mercenaries approaching from the North and Northwest! They seem to be at least three groups of 50 each!"
"Captain Brigid!" A third soldier approached from the same direction the tomboy officer approached from earlier. "Heavy riders in front of the barricade! 150 in total! Their leader announced themselves as the Scarlet Band and requests an audience!"
"By all means, fetch their leader and bring them here." General Heiscliff answered. "Send riders out to guide the other mercenary groups here as well, along with any others that may appear from hence forth."
"G-general?" Captain Brigid asked as her subordinates moved to carry out their orders.
"Brigid, sweetheart. When additional reinforcements numbering 400 show up unexpectedly in your time of need you simply do not ignore such needed aid." General Heiscliff replied with a series of tisks. "And if you are worried about these mercenaries secretly being an enemy force pretending to be allies, need I remind you that such tactics are beneath the righteous Path of Peace we are soon to face?"
"In fact, I would bet my favorite china set that these mercenaries are an additional gift from Chairmen Fuyu."
As if waiting for that very line, the leader of the Scarlet Band, escorted by two Imperial troopers, approached the gathering.
"Salutations and good tidings to you, fair General Heiscliff." The mercenary, dressed in heavy, red armor with black outlines armed with heavy shield and lance stated.
He lifted his helmet's visor, revealing a noble-looking man with a thick, brown mustache, black eyes, and curly eyebrows.
"I am Sir Dun'kar of the Scarlet Band. We have been paid in advance to aid in your upcoming conflict by Chairmen Fuyu."
Sir Dun'kar saluted with lance in hand, thumping his weapon against his armored chest. "We 150 shall carry out whatever orders required of us, be it noble or dastardly! Simply give the command and we shall move heaven and earth!"
General Heiscliff clapped at the display. "Deeply poetic, Sir Dun'kar. Many thanks for arriving with much needed reinforcements. I have only arrived at the scene myself and have no orders at the moment other than to settle your troops at an area nearby, for I have no doubt I shall be utilizing your talents soon."
The general dismissed the man with a wave. "Your escorts shall show you where your men can stay for the time being."
Sir Dun'kar nodded, lowered his visor, and followed the Imperial troopers back.
"Did...Chairmen Fuyu...really do all this?" Captain Brigid struggled to comprehend. "How...can one man...arrange things this quickly?"
"That, dear Brigid, is the foresight of the former Flash Demon of the Imperial Army."
The tomboy's eyes widened in surprise. "Th-th-the Flash Demon is real?!"
"Oh dear, it has already devolved to that state amongst the new generation?" General Heiscliff shook their head. "Sad state of affairs that is. One I shall aim to correct after all this warfare is over."
General Heiscliff maneuvered their horse to the left, heading to a massive tent they spotted with a map of the area set up in the center of a large table.
"I can here expecting to fight a running battle. Instead, I find the tools and forces to hold these fanatical forces back for as long as everyone requests of me." The general said to no one in particular. "Oh Chairmen Fuyu, you spoil me so. I may have just fallen in love." General Heiscliff allow themself a few moments to let out a flamboyant laugh.
Within a few minutes, General Heiscliff and their group dismounted and flooded into the command tent.
"Right, down to business." Heiscliff placed their hands on their hips. "Miranda, get out your notepad and begin to write down my orders."
The general's secretary smiled, quickly pulling out the requested notepad and pen.
"I need a detailed report on the already built fortifications and the plans of what it should look like once completed.|
"I'll also need to know full details on each mercenary force that arrives as reinforcement. Their numbers, arms, composition, specialties, and so on. We need to know everything about what we have to work with."
"Also, get me an updated scouting report on how far out the Path of Peace's main force is from here along with an estimation on when the planned fortifications shall be 100% complete."
General Heiscliff listed all these off as they studied the map before them, noticing that apart of the first thing they requested had already been included upon these ink filled diagrams.
"That is all for the moment, carry on Miranda."
As their secretary headed out, the general called out two names.
"Xiao Su, Xiao Mei."
A pair of twins approached the flamboyant general, one man, one woman. Each had long black hair and armor belonging to a nation beyond the Eastern Islands.
"Yes, Parent." The twins answered in unison, bowing to one knee and raising arms in salute. (If you have ever seen any Chinese shows on any of their Warring States periods, they are preforming that military submissive salute you constantly see.)
"Come here my children. I want you two to study this map with me." General Heiscliff pointed to the center of the fortifications planned to be built.
"I require the two of you darlings to memorize every detail on this map. You, my Twin Pearls, shall aid me in planning out our order of battle once I have obtained full details on the forces we are to command."
"Also for the coming days, you may refer to me as Father or Papa. We are about to make war and, while any woman can be adept at such a task should they posses the right mindset, the destructive nature of the male sex makes it all too natural a skill to excel at."
"As you wish, Father." The twins replied, bowing further before moving to both sides of their now father. General Heiscliff, for the time identifying as a male, slowly began to wipe the makeup from his face as he studied the map before him.
The general allowed himself a smile. One cold and crude, unlike what he offered prior.
For he had been gifted the pieces needed to ensure what most certainly eluded his grasp from the start.
Victory against a deeply fanatical foe.
How utterly delightful.
13 Days after The Revolution began. Nighttime at Fuyu's Mansion...
"Wild Hunt is quickly growing into a problem." Fuyu stated for all within the room to hear.
In front of the chairmen sat one of Serpentine's shinobi host and Drake, the latter has been hiding here since his faked death.
"They are killing needless civilians under the context of establishing order." Fuyu crossed his arms. "Though I suppose we should have expected as much given their leader."
"The people are in fear." Serpentine added. "At the mere sight of the group, everyone runs and hides in whatever hole they can find."
"Before we begin our coup, they need to be dismantled and destroyed." Fuyu continued. "Drake, I'll need you to create a bit of noise once we are ready to deal with them. Draw out both these bastards and the Jagears into the open. I shall deal with Syura's twisted toys one at a time."
"That's all and good, but are we sure I'll be enough to draw all that heat?" Drake countered. "The Jagears sure, but I doubt those bastards will come unless something like Night Raid appearing in broad daylight will have'em all come running."
"If we add in some subterfuge from Joker...and if we could find Pyro." Fuyu cut himself off. "Regardless, even if you can draw away only the Jagears so I can kill at least some of Wild Hunt, it'll be worth the risk."
"That's not much of a plan...You're that desperate to get rid of em huh?" Drake leaned back. "I understand. I'd appreciate any intel on their members you can send my way before you send me on a suicide mission in case they really do all jump on me."
"Already done." Serpentine said, presenting a stack of documents to the engineer.
"You guys don't miss a beat huh?" Drake said, impressed as he took the packet.
"Naturally. After all, we have a mole installed in the group." Fuyu answered with a smirk.
"Of course you do." Drake replied with a sigh, quickly skimming through the papers. His eyes widened upon the instant recognition of this certain individual.
"Hold on...this...can't be..."
Fuyu raised an eyebrow. "Problem?"
Drake nodded. "This guy knows me. How the hell...did he survive that?"
"So, change of plans?"
Drake lowered the packet. "Unless you're ok with half the Capital becoming a battle ground between two insane engineers and everyone else that gets caught up in it."
"Very well, I'll let you come up with an alternative plan." Fuyu waved his hand in dismissal. "Make it quick, we don't have too much time to spare."
"Alright then." Drake said with a somewhat surprised look as he rose to his feet. He didn't expect his boss to act in such a way without so much as a bit more interaction. Just goes to show that Fuyu wants these bastards gone but doesn't care about how.
"See you later boss. Tell me if you find my partner."
Fuyu waited until Drake had left before returning his focus the the shinobi before him.
"How is the search going for our missing pyromaniac?"
"Still no leads, even after watching the girl." Serpentine answered. "If Raryu was in a more complete state, I could focus more clearly on such a daunting task."
"I told Jast using the Conqueror's Hand on him was a gamble." Fuyu shook his head. "Stubborn man believes everyone needs a worthy cause to fight for. He's still young, in that way." He let out a sigh.
"Nothing to be done about it now. As much as I loath the idea, we may have to deploy the armor to deal with my dear sister. It's the only other thing we have that can defeat that monster in human flesh. Otherwise, I have to team up with Budo and given my sister's new ability, it won't be enough."
"On that note, let us address our other guest." The Chairmen of the Senate rose from his seat. He walked to the far side of the room, knocking on a door twice.
"Show her in."
Fuyu stood back as the door slowly opened. In came a pick haired teenager holding a cosmetic case and a lolipop in her mouth. This girl is Pyro's current love and AWOL Night Raid member: Chelsea.
"Welcome, Chelsea. I am glad you agreed to come."
"Not that you left me much choice." Chelsea replied with a smirk. "As soon as you said what happened to my Pyro though, how could I refuse?"
"Jack is a lucky man to have such a spunky girl like you." Fuyu said with a laugh. "I should know, I have several."
"Right, you're the guy with the maid harem. Tell me, how many girls do you have again?"
"Maids? Lets see...about 40 last time I really counted. Probably much more now though." Fuyu honestly answered. "As for lovers, haha I assure you, I have countless women throughout the Empire at my beck and call."
"Right, celebrity and playboy. Forgot about that." Chelsea shook her head. "You really are shameless aren't you?"
"Can't have fun if I'm not." Fuyu quickly countered. "As pleasant as this back and forth is, we need to talk business."
"What do you need?" Chelsea asked, pulling the lolipop from out her mouth.
"I need you to impersonate a certain someone." Fuyu answered. "Follow me."
Fuyu lead Chelsea through the room and out a third door. The pair traveled part of the open balcony featured on the second floor of the mansion, took a left turn, down a series of hallways, and arrived at what appeared to be a dead end.
Fuyu placed his right hand on a chest level part of the wall and pressed. A moment after, a part of the wall receded inward and to the right revealing a hidden room.
The Partas clan survivor reached inside and off to the left, pulling a lantern from the wall. He lit said lantern, and gestured the young assassin behind him to follow.
The pair stepped inside the room, containing a single chair and enough space for three or four people to stand shoulder to shoulder.
In the chair sat a single person, bond with blood and wounds all over, either unconscious or dead.
Chelsea took a step closer to examine the person.
It was a man, a rather high ranking government official at that. Chelsea let out a laugh.
"Looks like you caught a big fish here."
Tied to the chair before her is none other than Warumo, the Minister of Commerce.
"The timing was the hardest to nail down." Fuyu stated. "The man lives in the most unorthodox of manners, schedules be damned. His habits stayed the same however. Only a matter of getting the when and where right."
"Sounds like a hassle. You want me to impersonate the guy?" Chelsea concluded.
"Smart girl." Fuyu turned his head around, handing the young girl a dossier of all the recorded information Clockwork has collected on Warumo.
"This here is everything you need to know about the flashy bastard. Habits, speech patterns, relationships, background, all down to the most trivial matters. I'd like you to memorize it all and fill the Minister of Commerce's shoes for awhile. Within the next two days if possible."
"Oh? So high risk, deep cover spying huh?" Chelsea smirked. "Something spook you to ask little old me for a job like this?"
"Saikyuu." Fuyu stated plainly. Just the mention of the name of Honest's secretary was enough for Chelsea to drop her usual playful routine.
"That bastard's been snooping more than usual. I need another set of eyes and ears close to that man to see what his game is at." Fuyu paused for a breath before continuing. "If the opportunity allows, assassination would be ideal."
"I see..." Chelsea looked at Warumo. "If I help you with this, then the Empire will become a better place right?"
"It'll be a big step towards what it was before Honest got his grubby hands on it." Fuyu soundly answered. "We shall turn back the clock, and restore the Empire to the height of its glory."
"Clockwork huh?" Chelsea closed her eyes, smiling. She turned toward the chairmen, taking the dosser from his hand.
"I'll do it. In return, you bring Jack to me." She grinned, showing off her teeth. "I have a lot to say to that man for leaving his beautiful girlfriend alone for so long."
15 Days after The Revolution began. Western Territories of the Imperial Empire...
General Esdeath arrived in the West to gaze upon the miserable state of so called Imperial Might. Dozens of forts toppled, miles of territory lost, and any trace of competent thinking long gone.
Inexcusable.
For 5 days, she organized whatever force she can salvage from the tattered and mostly useless remains of the Western Imperial Armed Forces.
For 2 days after, she hastily trained said forces to carry out the most simple of plans she could conduct with such poor forces.
Esdeath silently regret that she chose to leave her personal force to garrison the North, correctly surmising that those Norsemen would eventually try to take back their lost territory.
Now they were all slain, and all she had left to work with are incompetent officers leading poorly trained and equipped conscripts.
The only thing going for them was their high moral. Despite all that was happening, these men and women still believed that the Empire could win.
And with the Ice Witch leading them, well... Lets just say that right now, in terms of fanatical loyalty, they could put even the Path of Peace's Armed Forces a run for their money.
Here, on the 15 day after the beginning of The Revolution, General Esdeath and her token force of 2,500 Imperial Garrison Soldiers begin their march against the invading barbarians.
"General Esdeath." A soldier, riding up to her horse at the head of the column. "From what we can gather, there appears to be 3 different warbands ravaging our territories." He reported once his horse pulled up to the fearsome general. "Numbers vary given the lack of any organized formation, but the reports suggest each to possess at least 10,000."
"A force of 30,000 barbarians invading from the west to reclaim their lost territory?" General Esdeath chuckled. "I don't believe we should take that number at face value. Most likely, the numbers have been raised to act as a sort of excuse for the incompetent officers to explain their losses."
"No, I think that the total number of invading forces are no more than 10,000 at most." She continued. "More likely a force between 5,000 to 9,000."
"Going from that logic, if there are in fact 3 warbands, we can estimate around 3,000 barbarians each. Give or take a few hundred at the very least." General Esdeath tilted her head, smiling as she glanced at the messenger. "Much more manageable then 10,000. Isn't that right?"
"As you say general." The soldier replied, bowing his head. "Be it 3,000 or 10,000 or even 1 million foes we shall surely defeat any enemy while you lead us!"
"I surely aim to live up to your expectations." General Esdeath replied with a sly smile. "We'll take these invaders out piece meal. Wipe them out before they can form together into a large host."
"I expect us to be done within the month, assuming the barbarians don't have any special tricks to play." She looked to the sky. "As tempted as I am to finished this quickly, we need to be precise with this work. Can't leave too large of a force left alive to conduct raids against Imperial Territory, especially behind our lines."
"Whatever you wish of us General Esdeath, we shall carry it out to the letter!" The soldier said with a bit more enthusiasm as needed.
The Ice Witch closed her eyes, smiling while showing her teeth.
"I expect nothing less."
18 Days after The Revolution began. The Capital, Imperial Palace.
Sitting at the head of a long table filled with various military officers and ministers, Prime Minster Honest munched on a slab of meat. His son and head of the infamous Wild Hunt stood off to his left.
"As you all should know by now..." Honest began, voice filled with venom. "The Revolutionary Army has managed to pass through En Gate without so much as a single scratch. How this has come to be is obvious." He paused, taking a moment to study the collection of officers before him.
"Do any of you have some sort of ingenious plan to counter this grave threat on its merry way to the Capital?"
"This is what, the third fortress to fall without a fight?" A younger minister commented. "Cowards, traitors the lot of them!"
"Why haven't we sent anything to counter these rebels yet?!" An older minster added. "What are our soldiers doing!? Wasting their time putting down the armed civilians?!"
"We have sent several mounted forces to assess their capabilities. Very few have returned." A major replied. "They confirm what we feared; a highly professional and experienced force lead by talented officers. Several Imperial Arms have been confirmed among their ranks as well."
"Perhaps we have underestimated them..." The officer next to the major added.
Honest let out an annoyed snort."They panic over the most trivial of details. I can't even eat in peace."
Syura eyed his father, eyebrows half raised. 'Even with all this, pops ain't worried in the slightest.' He thought to himself. 'Must be thanks to the Ultimate Imperial Arms only the descendants of the 1st Emperor can use.'
"What is the Minister of Military Affairs doing at a time like this?!" The older minister shouted.
"Actually doing something that benefits the Empire in this time of crisis, unlike you windbags that do nothing but bitch and point fingers." An all too familiar voice called out.
"Hohoho, well said my dear friend." Prime Minister Honest replied with a jolly laugh after eating a mouthful of meat. "Come in, tell all these foolish military men and ministers what our own Flash Demon has to say about the current situation."
"Gladly." Chairmen Fuyu smirked, walking with stride towards the long table were a dozen or so sat. Following close behind is a beautiful blond woman dressed in a Valkyrie styled armor set; the famous former general Flora Gainey.
"Gentlemen and ladies, on such short notice I have forged a way to buy us all about 2 months of time to prepare for the inevitable assault of the Revolutionary Army." Fuyu stated, holding up a hand to cease any premature questions or comments.
"And yes, the Capital will be put under siege. The current Imperial Empire we find ourselves in simply doesn't have the forces free to do more than stall the coming tide. Thus, we shall be bought 2 months to prepare anyway we can, allow my sister Esdeath to return from subjugating the Western Barbarians, allowing Generals Heiscliff and Batto ample time to quell the unrest in the East, and settle any loose ends we might have to attend to in these trying times."
Fuyu smirked at Honest as he stated that last bit.
The Chairmen of the Senate took a half-step to his side, holding a hand out to present the former general beside him. "May I present to you, Flora Gainey; the famous Valkyrie General and one of the prized members of my harem."
The ministers and officers that knew the name let out some approving grunts, others simply looked at one another in confusion.
"Was...was that last bit really necessary, Chairmen Fuyu?" Flora asked in a whisper.
"Of course, after all" Fuyu turned, pulling his head forward, "I need these fools to know that you are mine..." and kissed his woman on the lips once he finished speaking.
"Now go on, tell them our plan."
Blushing from the bold act and subsequent embarrassment, Flora Gainey cleared her throat. "A-as Chairmen Fuyu said prior, we have developed a plan to stall the enemy advance for 2 months. Before that, I would like to share solid information with everyone here about how the next few weeks will play out."
"First, all the strongholds we have leading up to Shisuikan will surrender to the rebels without a fight."
A collective of alarmed gasps and "what"s sounded out in reply.
"Didn't Chairmen Fuyu take a trip down to all these southern strongholds to assure of their loyalties?!" A minister shouted. "Why in the world would they surrender-"
Flora raised her hand to silence the man. "Minister, I assure you that the majority of these points are surrendering because of the chairmen's visit."
Honest let out a inquisitive ho at that bit.
"The chairmen discovered that many of the lords of these forts colluded with the rebels due to unfavorable treatment by you, the government." Flora continued, despite the scoffing of the previous remark by the crowd before her. "Instead of publicly denouncing this, he decided to take it upon himself to visit each individual and offered them a deal they couldn't refuse."
"Assuming this is true, then why -my lovely Valkyrie-, are these same lords surrendering now?" Prime Minister Honest personally asked the question on everyone's mind.
Flora smiled. "That's obvious. To lore the vanguard of the Revolutionary Army into a trap."
Honest place his meat down on the plate before him. He wiped his hands on the handkerchief around his neck, them quickly did the same to his mouth. "Do tell, what sort of trap are we expecting for these rebels?"
"One that will extend their front line far into our territory before being wiped out." The former general soundly replied. "The plan calls us to forge the formidable Shisuikan into an even more impressive wall the rebels shall crash against like waves against rocks on a storm filled day."
"General Nouken has been deployed with a reinforced brigade to Shisuikan. From there, he will buy as much time as he can against the coming tide of revolutionaries before employing the fail-safe measure."
"And what, is this fail-safe measure?" A major asked.
To this question, Flora Gainey pointed an armored finger up. Some of the more...slow ministers and officers rose their heads to glance at the roof.
"The only kind we can deliver with the utmost efficiency: Death from above."
19 Days after The Revolution began. Midday, The Capital, Imperial Palace.
Wave, tray in hand, walked the long halls of the Imperial Palace. Like clockwork, he carried Seryu's afternoon meal to the room she shut herself in.
He'd been doing this ever since they returned from Kyoroch. Ever since they lost Drake.
Seryu understandably has taken the lost the hardest as she refused to leave her room for anything. Given how close they were, or at least how she held him in such high regard, it would be odd if she didn't lock herself away.
Surely General Esdeath could talk to her, get her to come out. With her deployed to the west, the rebellion, along with the growing insecurity Wave had been feeling recently, things were stagnate.
Even after decided what type of ideal world he wanted to bring, Wave had proven to be helpless in trying to carry out his vision.
Every time this seeming fact has been thrown in his face, the same man stood in his way.
Pyro.
Last time they meet, Wave somehow unlocked a new ability: Aqua Fist. However, no matter what he tried after that night, Wave couldn't unleash that power again. Let alone that voice that spoke to him.
And then there's the other problem.
Wild Hunt.
A group under the control of the Prime Minister's son created to reinforce the Jagears after all the casualties they sustained. A group of murderers, maniacs, rapists, and other scum that months ago the Jagears had been tasked with hunting down similar criminals to keep the peace.
Now the Capital was held by fear of these so called allies...
If the government could sanction this...
'Perhaps it be better if it all just...' Wave stopped himself mid thought as he came to his destination. He gazed upon the door, letting out a sigh before adding one more thought. 'Maybe...Chairmen Fuyu could offer some advice...'
Wave knocked on the door with the back of his hand. "Seryu?" He called. "It's Wave. I brought your food again."
He waited to the usual silence that followed, let out another sigh, then placed the tray down before the door. "It outside the door, like usual..." Wave placed his hand on the door, leaning his head against it.
"Seryu...I can't imagine what you are going through." He gave a sad smile. "I lost a close friend...you lost a lover. Drake has been there for us when we needed him. He helped us both become who we are today."
Tears started to pool in his eyes. "I...I failed you. Failed him. I...I know that strength alone couldn't save everyone I care about. If only I could get around that tribesmen, or if I didn't act the way I did. Maybe...maybe things could be different."
"There's still so much I find lacking! Every time I take a step forward, I'm pushed back two!" Wave cried. "Everything I think is the right choice costs me someone I'm close to! What am I suppose to do?! How can I-"
A bang on the other side of the door startled the young man. He pulled his head back. "Ser-Seryu?"
"...It's...ok." Her barely heard voice called out. "You've done...enough...Wave."
Wave's eyes went wide. "What are you saying?" He asked, wiping away the tears with his sleeve.
"You...you're tired..." Seryu replied, voice so low and filled with sadness, depression, and sounding like she's done with it all. "We are all...so tired..."
"Everything we do...everything we've done...it's all so...pointless." She let out a sorrow filled laugh. "What is the point...of it all? When those...we care about...die...no matter what is done..."
Wave shook his head. "Seryu...yes we lost people but that doesn't mean we can give up. What about the Empire?"
"FORGET THE EMPIRE!" The unexpected raised, broken voice of Seryu startled Wave so that he fell on he rear.
"What good is the Empire we live in when they allow innocent people to suffer at the hands of injustice?! Why should we care when all the sacrifices we make amount to nothing in the minds of those who rule?! How can we proudly claim to be the good guys when everything -EVERYTHING- our actions cause are suffering, suppressing free will, and allowing the continued reign of EVIL?!"
"Seryu, what's going on?!" Wave quickly rose to his feet. "This...this isn't like you!"
"...My eyes...are open to the truth..." Seryu's voice returning to the low pitch from before. "Best you realize too...before you also...die..."
"Seryu!" Wave banged on the door. "Seryu, open the door. We need to talk about this!"
"...I'm done talking, Wave."
Minutes passed with only the sound of what Wave thought was the sound of Seryu walking away.
Wave let out an exacerbated sigh, about to call out his comrade's name again when his own was spoken. He turned his head, noticing Run approaching from the other end of the hall.
"Wave." Run called once more, quickly approaching his comrade. "How's Seryu?"
Wave pushed himself off the door. "Having a mental breakdown...or something." He turned to face Run. "She just spoke to me. Said a lot of things I never expected her so say in a million years. Things that would get her accused of treason."
"That's...concerning but understandable." Run replied, crossing his arms. "The lost of a loved one can change a person drastically. This is the first time she lost someone she loved, and that must be crushing on her soul."
"You would know, given your past." Wave replied.
Run's eyes turned cold for a moment as he replied. "In a way..." He glanced to the floor of the door. "She's been eating, at least?" Run asked.
"Every meal so far." Wave replied, glancing at the tray. "Not a single bit wasted."
"Curious." Run placed his hand on his chin. "For someone as depressed as her to eat all her meals..." He took a turning step towards Seryu's door.
"What are you thinking?" Wave asked.
"Its odd that-"
"Did you see that stupid bitch's face after we killed her fellow temple fighters?" The laughing voice of Enshin called out. "Seeing Syura take out almost all of them single handily caused her to piss herself!"
"Surprised he still had her way with her after all that." Iron Skull added with a chuckle. "Guess the boss ain't too picky when it comes to those sort of things."
"It was so boring." Champ added. "No inspiration for my work."
"Who cares about you're work?" Enshin replied. "We killed a bunch of idiots who dared to rise against us and had some fun while we where at it."
"You don't understand true art!" Champ shouted back. "To bring kids to the height of perfection before they can be corrupted and ending their lives to preserve those precious angels! It's what I live for!"
"Man, you are twisted." White Scorpion laughed. "And that's coming from a man who lost his mind!"
Run's eyes widened as he heard the members of Wild Hunt speaking. Soon after, a group of four came into view.
It took every bit of willpower to hold his ground. To resist the urge to lash out and kill the one he been seeking.
Wave and Run moved to the side, allowing these men to pass by.
Enshin purposely shoved his elbow into Wave. "Sorry there, comrade!"
"Hey!" Wave shouted after the force of the cheep shot caused his foot to knock into the tray with Seryu's food.
"What?" Enshin smirk, turning his head towards Wave. "I said I was sorry."
"You ruined Seryu's food!" Wave took a step forward, raising his arm up.
"Dumb bitch shouldn't have left it on the floor then!" Enshin shot back. Before Wave could reply, Iron Skull took the pirate by the elbow and shoved him forward.
"Back off Enshin. Clearly they are worried about their buddy." The giant man said.
Enshin let out a tisk. "Touch me like that again and see what happens."
"Oh piss off ya pirate!"
Enshin stuck the middle finger at the merc and continued on. Champ and White Scorpion followed.
Iron Skull turned to face the two Jagears. "Sorry bout that. Most of em are assholes to anyone outside our group." The massive man tilted his chin toward the door. "What's up with your friend?"
"In short, PTSD." Run answered, aiming to occupy his mind. "She's been like that ever since we got back from Kyoroch."
"She see something that spooked her?" Iron Skull tilted his head to the side as he crossed his arms. "Night Raid got some scary, crazy shit they used on you?"
Run gave the merc a smirk. "If only it were that simple."
Wave clenched his fist. "A man name Pyro." He answered. "He did this to her. He...he killed Drake, someone she loved very dearly. Right in front of her eyes."
"Huh?" White Scorpion quickly spun around, somehow able to hear the conversation from a reasonable distance like he was next to the trio. "Drake?"
"Did...you...say...DRAKE?!"
1 month ago...
Cesare, Walker, and Tatsumi walked the halls of the Revolutionary HQ, the forward leading with the two close behind. Tall, blue gray walls with tilled floors as far as the eye can see. Impressive set up, really shows the kind of backing the revolutionaries had all these years.
Walker noticed how clean the the place looked, despite how busy they must be given the final battle soon approaching.
"Keeping the place in good order eh?" The merc commented.
"Oh of course." Cesare turned his head back. "Even if we are busy, that is no excuse to neglect cleanliness."
Walker replied with a grunt. 'Something's off.' He thought, studying his surroundings. 'Why haven't we seen anyone else?'
Tatsumi seemed to ignore this, or at least pretend not to notice the fact.
In truth, the young man's mind is focused on playing out exactly how he was going to say what he needed to the Council. To ask why they were ordered to eliminate the members of Clockwork and try to convince them to resend these orders.
In a few minutes, Cesare guided Walker and Tatsumi through a four way intersection. Then two turns, and finally a spun around to face the pair. The commander of the Dark Ops place a hand on the wall, a moment after the wall retracted to reveal a hidden room.
"Gentlemen, if you would please wait in here." He said, waving his arm towards the room in question. "There are a few matters that need to be addressed before we can see to your request for a meeting with the Council."
"Why the hidden room?" Walker asked, taking a step forward. "And why didn't we see any other personal on the way here?"
"I insured the way be clear when I brought you two in," Cesare started. "the reason why is related to the hidden room. The regular revolutionaries see the members of Night Raid as celebrates. To avoid any unnecessary and unwanted attention, I've painstakingly arranged to maintain your privacy."
"Any other concerns I can answer before I depart?"
Walker squinted his eyes for a moment. "Nothing left to complain a'bout boss. More for ya later maybe."
Cesare smiled. "Very well then. I will send an escort for you in no less then 3 hours. If you require anything, there is a phone on the far corner. Dial 154 and ask for the quartermaster. He'll provide you with what you need."
Tatsumi nodded. "Understood. Thank you."
"The least I can do." Cesare replied with a smile. He waited for Walker and Tastumi to enter the hidden room before closing it from the outside and headed off.
Walker stared at the movable wall. "I really don't like where this is goin." He muttered.
"Why are you so concerned?" Tatsumi asked, hoping onto a crate nearby.
The merc turned around, finally taking in the room there where in. As expected, this seemed to be a storage room of some kind. A good amount of crates scattered around, but not so much that you couldn't see any point of the room without moving.
Least there's a desk with a chair by that phone Cesare mentioned.
"Things are a bit...off." Walker stated, crossing his arms. "Can't ya'll see that?"
"What do you mean?" Tatsumi tilted his head.
"Keeping us hidden like this." Walker answered. "Sure, he gave us sound excuses, but that don't mean it could've been all a lie. Sides, those two sentries saw us outside and called it in. You tellin me no one leaked our arrival between then and now? That no one would come take a peak at the very least? Ain't that raising a few red flags for you?"
"Cesare said they were busy." Tatsumi reasoned. "Between the coming offensive, and perhaps the discipline of their regular forces, maybe no one could even if they did know."
"Na, don't sit right." Walker scratched his chin, placing his free arm on his holster. "Sides, there's a contradiction. If these guys are so busy with this offensive, how can they clear out the entire area we where traveling in? Even if we didn't see nothin, should've at least heard some people."
"Come on Walker, you are worrying too much." Tatsumi smiled. "These guys are our allies. Sure, we are here to voice my disagreement on some orders, but that doesn't mean we should treat them like they're ready to kill us."
Walker took a good, long look into the young man's eyes.
Years of experience telling him that Tatsumi is wrong on so many levels. Thought of course, he wouldn't know what he knew. That key difference, along with the surprising job from an unexpected source, are the very reason why Walker insisted on coming here with the optimistic lad.
"I hope you're right kid...For both our sakes." He finally replied.
Unbeknownst to the pair, Cesare planted a number of listening devices in the hidden room prior to their arrival.
He listened to the whole conversation in detail via a device in his right ear. The Dark Ops commander smirked, approving of the mercenary's paranoia. He would do the same were the roles reversed.
He had no hostile intentions...only...playing it safe for what may come.
Cesare meant every word he spoke to the pair. Though he didn't wish to at times, it is his job to doubt others and prepare for the worse case.
And steal himself to carry out the darkest of tasks.
"For the dawn of a better tomorrow indeed."
THUS ENDS ANOTHER ENTRY TO AKAME GA KILL: CLOCKWORK!
And Happy Halloween as I somehow managed to finish this on that holiday hahaha!
Got things moving in this entry with everything developing along all these different times and hinting at some things that are to come/watch out for.
Finally looped Chelsea back into the story too and getting her doing what she does best: Being smug and spy work. Also, you can take this as a sign that Night Raid will be back in action within the next entry or two.
God I love prep work stuff like adding to the suspense. Its exciting in a way to see myself come this far with this story, knowing it'll be finished soon. Still a bit to go b4 that though so no worries yet hahaha.
General Heiscliff's bit showcasing how far in advance Fuyu planned things outside the coup along with showing how a group that's fighting the rebels is something I felt is needed for a few reasons.
Showing the "ordinary" soldiers during the revolution, the respect for the former general and depth to the preparation he has planned out, world building and simply giving ppl a side unseen in the normal story.
Like yes, you have the main cast and such, but what about the people that know about them and do some not as noteworthy but important stuff?
Yes, the manga of Akame Ga Kill is good showing moments of the citizens during the end game and such here and there, but what about the ordinary soldiers of the rebels, Imperials, Path of Peace, and so on?
All these things going on that aren't really expanded upon irk me a bit as wasted material but I've stated as such b4 haha.
Guess there's a reason I like Legend of Galactic Heroes so much. Similar to the world building of Romance of the Three Kingdoms only IN SPACE AND FUTUREEEEE.
Back on topic, how do you guys like the steady revealing of the Council members leading the Revolutionary Army? 5 out of 7 introduced thus far and touching upon most of what they do in the organization. The last two will be revealed in the next one, least that's the plan anyway.
And then we got Seryu's scene there, with her lashing out bout everything. Is that Seryu? Serpentine? A little of both? I'll let you all guess but one thing is for sure.
They just tired haha.
How will Tatsumi's meeting with the Council play out? Will all be as foreseen by Miss Fortune or will destiny take a different turn? Now that White Scorpion's trigger word has been uttered, what will happen to the already stale relationship between Wild Hunt and the Jagears? With Fuyu hastily adding bits to his carefully conscripted plans, will things go as expected or will more deviations take place?
Find out this and more next time on Akame ga Kill: Clockwork!