25 Days after the Revolution began. Morning, The Capital, Fuyu's Mansion...
Fuyu, accompanied by Run, walked briskly toward their destination: The room Seryu had taken up residence in. There was still time before the planned meeting with Prime Minister Honest and thus time to enlighten the young Jagear.
Not on everything of course, but of one illuminating truth in sea of shadows.
To build trust, this was an essential step.
Once the pair reached the door separating them from Seryu's room, Fuyu place his hand on the knob. He turned his head back to the blond man behind him.
"What I am about to show you, Run, is something I choose to share out of trust." Fuyu explained. "You will be alarmed, I am sure, but know that it was a decision made for the betterment of your friend."
Run raised an eyebrow but failed to reply before Fuyu slowly opened the door.
Revealed beyond stood the form of Seryu, fully dressed in a simple green sundress that made her look more girly than Run had ever seen before. She turned her head toward the door with a smile.
"Good morning Chairmen Fuyu. Run, is that you?" Seryu greeted, turning and half running to the door. "How have you been? Are the others with you?"
Run smiled, amazed at this sudden reversal since the last time he saw his comrade. "I'm well, and no. Wave and Kurome will be along later." The young man answered.
"I see, I see." Seryu nodded. "Come in! There's so much to talk about!"
Fuyu allowed Run to pass by as the pair walked into Seryu's room.
"How have you been?" Run asked with a smile. "You've improved a great deal since last I saw you."
Seryu nodded, smiling wide while showing her teeth as she clasped her hands behind her back. "It's all thanks to Chairmen Fuyu! He's been taking time each day to talk and help me out! I should've expected no less from Commander Esdeath's brother-"
"As cute as this is, drop the act." Fuyu said, closing the door behind him.
Run turned his head around, raising an eyebrow once more at the strange sentence Fuyu spoke. "What act?"
"Are you sure about this?" Seryu asked, narrowing her eyes at Fuyu.
Run whipped his head back around, eyes alarmed in confusion. "Seryu?"
Fuyu nodded. "Run and I have come to an agreement. As an act of trust, and in turn introducing him to a means of aid for his revenge, I have decided to introduce you properly: Serpentine."
Seryu blinked a few times before letting out a deep sigh. Her mannerisms changing in a manner of moments. She closed one eye, scratching the top of her head as she let out a tisk. "I wish you informed me of this decision ahead of time." She said. "You know how I hate improve."
Fuyu chuckled. "Apologies, but does it really matter? Besides, don't you deal with spur of the moment situations all the time with your other hosts?"
"That is that and this is this." Seryu pouted, crossing her arms. "It took time to get her mannerisms down, you know? I told you Seryu isn't like my usual hosts."
"What exactly are you two talking about?" A reasonably calm toned Run spoke up.
"Right, I suppose we should start there." Seryu, or rather the one that looked like her spoke, walking closer to the confused Run. She held out her hand. "Greetings, Run of the Jagears. I am known as Serpentine. I am a parasitic Imperial Arms spread among many individuals. Your comrade Seryu is one of my newest vessels."
Run stared at Seryu - Serpentine for a long time, processing this information.
"...I take it this is how you are so well informed?" Run finally managed to say.
Fuyu crossed his arms, smirking. "Serpentine's one of my methods, yes."
Serpentine, with Seryu's hand still held out, cleared their throat. "I am a secondary source of intelligence, yes. My role per Fuyu's instructions are to provide personal for clandestine operations, mostly information warfare and assassinations."
"And the reason you are inside Seryu now?" Run asked, narrowing his eyes.
"Drake." The parasite answered, which wasn't a lie in the slightest.
Run's eyes widened. "What are you trying to say?"
"That depressed mess...that was the real Seryu." Serpentine answered. "She came to realize many truths about the world after what happened with Drake, thus she lost the will to live. She hasn't stooped to the point of suicidal actions, yet at the rate of her mental instability, this was only a matter of time."
"So you...imbedded yourself inside her-"
"-to repair her broken mind."
Run stared into the eyes of Seryu, trying to get a feel for this Serpentine inside of her. Failing at that, he slowly raised his hand a tad.
"So...how is she now?"
Seryu - Serpentine tilted it's head, looking to the side. "Still a mess, but recovering. Slowly."
"Can she tell you are...inside?"
The parasite nodded. "In fact, I introduced myself to her subconscious. Through there, I can keep her up to date...She says that she's glad to see you, but you shouldn't have bothered."
Run chuckled. "Yeah, that matches up with how Wave described her before."
"Ah yes, the outburst. A necessary venting of emotions. Very healthy for the mind."
Run took in a deep breath, closing his eyes for a moment before continuing. "Tell me, Serpentine. You have been keeping her alive and trying to help her in a way myself and Wave could never hope to. Would you mind if you can keep looking after her until she recovers fully? That you will do everything you can to make it right for her?"
"I promise to do everything I can."
And with that answer, Run grasped the outstretched hand. "I'll hold you to your word, however good it is."
Seryu smirked. "Come on Run, haven't we known each other long enough? You can trust me to uphold a promise to any fellow bringer of justice!"
"A little smug, but you got her more or less down." Run smirked back, withdrawing his hand before Seryu lowered hers.
"Now introductions are over with," Fuyu cut in. "needless to say that you have to keep this information to yourself."
"You have my word that I won't say anything." Run turned, nodding his head.
"Not telling someone something and lying to their face are two completely different things." Fuyu stated, his gaze turning a familiar cold. "With what we plan to do, there will be many lies told to those close to us. I know you are capable of deceit, but can you truly lie to those you consider friends?"
Run lowered his gaze for a moment. "You asked me what I am willing to sacrifice to achieve my revenge. While I am touched by your concern, I already gave you my answer."
"As long as we are clear." The sly man smiled. "With that out of the way, I must get ready to meet that fat bastard." Fuyu began heading for the door. "I will be back in an hour at the most. I'll have a maid come collect you once I've returned."
The Partas survivor opened, walked out, and closed the door to a crack. A single eye peaked at the two. "Have fun you too, and don't do anything you'll both regret." He winked, then closed the door softly.
Run smirked, closing his eyes before returning his focus on Seryu - Serpentine.
"What can you tell me...about that rotten clown?"
Seryu's head tilted up, eyes narrowing as she smugly smiled like a child that proved they were better than an adult.
"Everything. What do you want to know first?"
Yes, this creature will be a great help. A great asset indeed.
18 Days after the Revolution began. Dawn, Eastern Imperial Territories. Strategic fortifications known as Holzwand...
Holzwand, otherwise known as Wooden Wall.
That is the newly given name to these fortifications built to contain the advance of the Path of Peace.
Within these past few days, the finishing touches were added to this impressive set of construction. In addition, various mercenary outfits of all sorts, shapes, and sizes have arrived to reinforce the Imperials stationed here.
What was once a meager 451 force barely able to fight a delaying action grew to a fighting force of 5,530 with seemingly more on the way.
In an hours time, they were expected to clash with the enemy vanguard.
As expected, the Path of Peace's advance had been slow. The reason being the very nature of their leader Lord Fairchild. The man just couldn't help but assist anyone suffering his army had come across.
That and given their numbers have swelled with civilian rebels armed with little better than determination and whatever crude weapons they can acquire it's little wonder why General Heiscliff and thus under his command had a productively peaceful week.
Thus, whatever passed as military command for the religious zealots decided to detach a force of 8,000 properly trained soldiers, all core Path of Peace fanatics, to act as a recon in force. According to the latest reports, this vanguard was a full three days away from the main force.
Now General Heiscliff and his chosen staff of officers stood inside the command tent, gathered around a large table to smooth out the details on wiping out a fighting force that would surely fight to the bitter end...
"The civilian contractors are withdrawing." Xiao Su reported. "They should be long gone by the time the enemy arrives."
"Everything has been set in accordance with your wishes, Father." Xiao Mei added. "Nearly everything is ideal."
"Indeed." General Heiscliff, hand upon his chin, replied. His focus on the figures portrayed on the map.
"Our forces are placed in such a way that we will hold once we engage in melee. The traps are set to fall upon those that follow the path on the lower end of the cliffs, but should the enemy commander have the foresight to split their forces to travel on the high cliffs and match their pace we have inadequate missile troops to harass they before engaging hand to hand."
Most of the mercenaries and Imperials gathered there were melee forces, be they on foot or on horse. There was a unit of 80 crossbowmen, but they were to cover the cliff edge. Additionally, there were mixed units with bowmen attached but these weren't enough to do more than shave off some numbers.
This was a note that would save some men on their end. A luxury given their task of delaying the oncoming force of over 100,000. Still, every soldier helped even if they bought another second.
And once more, that solution to their problem arrived in a timely fashion.
"G-general Heiscliff!" Captain Brigid shouted breathless, opening the flap to the command camp. "S-sir! You...You gotta..."
"Breath, my dear Brigid." The general said, spinning around. "Someone, bring her water."
An officer complied, stepping toward and holding out their canteen. Catching her breath, the tomboy took the canteen of water handed to her drinking deeply. She gasped after a few gulps, taking in a few deep breaths.
"Thank you." She handed the officer back their canteen, taking one more deep breath before looking General Heiscliff right in the eyes. "General, you have to see this."
"Whatever it is has gotten you in high spirits I see." Heiscliff smirked. "Very well, lead on."
With Captain Brigid leading, General Heiscliff and the majority of his officers that were in the tent followed to find another welcomed surprise.
500 men.
500 riflemen to be exact. Standing in formation all in dark blue colored uniforms with what appeared to be black thunderbolts portrayed on the fronts of their shirts, black boots, and dark colored steel helmets.
What was most peculiar about these riflemen where the very rifles they carried.
Guns were a rare item in the Imperial Military, and those that are available were either single shot rifles or machine guns. These particular firearms looked to be of a completely different type.
General Heiscliff quickly noticed what appeared to be a magazine and a bolt like attachment upon each rifle. Curious.
"I was taking one last look around the camp, just as you ordered general, when I noticed these guy approaching." Captain Brigid said. "They said that they were sent to help us out, but claim they aren't mercenaries."
"I would be alarmed if a mercenary outfit of this size had such uniformity. Must be a new formation fresh out of training." General Heiscliff said with a laugh. He took a step past the captain. "Who amongst you is the commanding officer?"
"Gunnery Major Halve, commander of the 1st New Rifle Corps, 2nd Company." The newly revealed officer stated. "Chairmen Fuyu sends his regards and placed us at your disposal, general."
"That man...haha, he spoils me so." Heiscliff muttered cheerfully. With a smile, he motioned the new arrivals to follow. "Perfect timing Major, your arrival solved a critical issue with our formation. Come, I'll show you where to place your men."
19 Days after the Revolution began. Midday, Western Imperial Territories...
"General Esdeath." A middle aged man with a military cut hairstyle and assumed officer saluted. "A pleasure to meet the fearsome Ice Witch. Unfortunate news reached us about your defeat the other day."
The infamous general, smirking upon her horse, let out a short chuckle. "A miscalculation on my part. Who would have thought those dibbling idiots making any excuse for their failures would actually speak the truth for once?"
"Thus the reason why you now seek refuge at our humble fortress?"
Humble fortress is an understatement.
This fortress is the corner stone of the Western Territories defenses.
While their exist several alternate routes to travel through the line, such as a more southern approach Esdeath used prior with her decimated force, each of those are place in strategic locations that limit how many forces can traverse at a time. Meaning each alternate approach was a proper killing ground in its own right.
Thus, the barbarians have no choice but to attack this particular fortress if they wish to travel further east or risk unnecessary losses.
"Given the only logical choice to head east for any attackers would be to take over this fortress, I have decided it best to regroup my forces here and launch an effective counterattack once my preparations are complete." General Esdeath answered.
The officer nodded. "We are at your service, general. However I should let you know that there are very few forces I can spare. As it stands, we barely have sufficient numbers to hold the fortress. The most I can spare is 300 men."
"Keep your troops," General Esdeath said with the wave of her hand, nudging her horse forward through the open gates. The officer followed on foot, along with his two escorts. "I have a means of providing myself with an effective fighting force that will make short work of these barbarians. All I require are large amounts of water and open space."
"We have some open areas that might work for your needs." The officer replied. "As for water, I'll have some men collect snow and boil it down for you to supplement whatever of our water supply we can shave off as a start." He scratched his chin as he continued. "Fortunately, we aren't lacking in resupply convoys. I'll be sure to pass along your request for large amounts of water."
"Very good." General Esdeath stated. "This process with take several days. I stress the fact that I cannot be disturbed during the process unless absolutely necessary. Even so, depending on how far along I am on any current day, I doubt I can be much help beyond offering advice and commanding others to carry out whatever plans I can devise on the spot."
"I'll keep that in mind, general." The officer replied with a nod. "Rest assured that even if all the barbarians attack us at once, we will holdout for as long as needed. From what intel we have gathered, it appears that these foes have little more than siege ladders and the occasional archer platform."
"Perhaps, but expect them to bring something more for the attack on this fortress." General Esdeath cautioned. "There are quite a few tribes out there, some of which we have never encountered before. Who knows what surprises they have in store."
24 Days after the Revolution began. The Capital, Imperial Palace...
It took Chelsea a whole day to memorize everything provided in that very detailed packet.
It took half a day after to put everything into practice.
Now, 9 days after Chairmen Fuyu asked her to impersonate Warumo, the Minister of Commerce, Chelsea took a gamble.
To sneak into the office of Saikyuu, the prime minister's personal secretary, in broad daylight.
It was a simple task picking the lock and slipping inside without a sound.
Chelsea looked around, silently commenting on the rather average accommodations for one who stood at Prime Minister Honest's side.
Quick and quiet, Chelsea moved to the work desk and began looking for anything important. Drawers opened, files will shifted and carefully place back exactly as there were once deemed useless.
Several minutes passed before she stumbled upon a false "floor" within a drawer. The professional licked her lips, carefully opening the wooden covering with slow, delicate motions.
"Now what could you be hiding..." Chelsea muttered as she placed her hands inside. What she pulled out wasn't what she expected.
A book, nearly as long and wide as the drawer she pull it out of. The cover featured something rather disturbing: The open mouth of some sort of creature with a single red eye peering out. What seemed like blood vessels surrounded this mouth from the four corners and a text from an unknown language was written on the spine of the book.
Chelsea placed the odd book upon the desk. She smiled and moved to open the book. He eyebrow raised, the book didn't budge. She tried harder, both hands this time get the book remained stubbornly shut.
Chelsea let out a breath, cursing at the book in a low a tone as possible when it did something even creepier.
The red eye moved, and it looked directly at her.
"What the hell is this thing-"
"What are you doing here Warumo?" A voice she knew called out. Looking up, she noticed the frowning face of Saikyuu glaring straight at her. 'I didn't even sense his approach!' She mentally screamed as she calmed herself down. The worst thing would be to look alarmed.
"Ah, there you are Saikyuu!" Chelsea, slipping into character, replied with a wide smile. "I was looking for you! The door to your office was unlocked so I let myself in!"
"Odd, I sworn I locked it..." Honest's secretary muttered, looking off to the side as he placed a gloved hand on his chin. After a moment to ponder, Saikyuu returned his focus to his unexpected guest. "No matter, what business do you have with me? And what are you doing at my desk?"
"See, that's the thing Saikyuu, old buddy!" Chelsea replied, stepping to the side of the desk. "I heard you're got a private army of spies that are pretty good at tracking things down and I was hoping you can help me out!"
Saikyuu let out a sigh, adjusting his glasses. "I hope this isn't to find some lost piece of jewelry or some other material item you fancy."
"Ha! Na just some dirt bags that owe me quite a bit of collateral and fled to the countryside now that everything gone tits up is all."
Saikyuu took big steps to his desk, pulling out the chair and sitting down in one motion. He stared at the creepy book for a moment before smirking at Chelsea.
"Now how on earth did you find this, Warumo?"
Chelsea rubbed the back of her head. "Oh well when I couldn't find you I started to look around, seeing if you written down the location of those spies anywhere and found that creepy ass book. What the hell is it anyway? I tried to open it but it's sealed shut."
Saikyuu chuckled. "I should've known you weren't one to respect privacy, giving your past as a debt collector. I'm surprised you noticed the hidden mechanisms I installed to keep this book hidden."
"You know how it is, sharp eyes help spot any hidden troves of cash."
Saikyuu smiled, laughing a little. "You are more clever than I thought. Not even Prime Minister Honest knows about this book."
'Crap.' Chelsea mentally spoke. She lowered her hand, looking dumbfounded. "Uh really? Does that mean I'm in hot shit right now?"
"As long as you keep your mouth shut, there will be no trouble." The secretary returned his gaze to the book with the red eye. "Rongo Rongo, be a dear and reveal the locations of the spy villages I have established please."
With what sounded like an exaggerated breath, the book -this Rongo Rongo- opened all on its own. Pages flipped for several moments until settling on a particular page: An extremely detailed map of the Empire featuring several circled positions scattered all around. A handful of the circled spots had Xs across them.
"Hmmm..." Saikyuu placed a finger on the side of his chin. "Looks like 4 more have been destroyed since last I looked."
"What do you mean?" Chelsea asked.
"Rongo Rongo shows detailed maps of whatever territory and location or locations I ask in real time." Saikyuu pointed a finger. "See there? On the eastern side, another village has been hit."
As he spoke, another X drew itself over another circle.
"Shame, but given the location I would blame that on General Batto. That Amazon bitch enjoys razing villages to the ground."
"That...is hella creepy." Was all Chelsea could say. A book that tracked locations in real time? Where did he acquire such a device?
"Precisely why I keep him hidden." Saikyuu stated, picking up the page containing the spy villages. "I'll have to train more and build those villages once the war is over..."
'Him?' Chelsea mentally spoke. 'That thing is alive?!'
"Normally, I wouldn't bother my spies with such a trivial task as tracking down individuals fleeing from debt collection." Saikyuu stated, ripping the page neatly from the living book. "Seeing as we are at war, many of my spies remain idle. I'm sure they will appreciate the work." He handed the paper out to Chelsea with a smile. "Do be kind to them, they are very efficient and somewhat expensive to train up."
"Sure..." Chelsea took the map. "Uh...is it ok to rip out pages like that?"
Saikyuu blinked a few times before letting out a laugh.
"Ah right, you don't know. Rongo Rongo isn't your average book. He's a type of domesticated Danger Beast from the Deep South, a very rare species mind you. Any pages I pull out will be regenerated by the day's end. In fact, I can set him on fire and he'd regenerate in a week or so. He's a very handy tool for intelligence work."
"That so?" Chelsea chuckled. "Damn Saikyuu, you really found yourself a nice trove of gold there! Hey, you ever looking to sell that guy let me know. I'm sure we can make a fortune on him!"
Saikyuu smiled, shacking his head. "I'm afraid Rongo Rongo only works with a select few individuals, besides he is far too useful to me to waste on monetary gain. If there's nothing else, I wish you a good day, Minister of Commerce."
"Right back at you, and thanks." Chelsea turned to leave, holding her hands out in the air. "And would it kill you to redecorate in here? This place is far too bland man!"
"I'll...consider it." Saikyuu replied, focusing on whatever work he now started to get into.
With that, Chelsea casually walked out of the office, carefully closed the door, and fast paced down the hall.
'Goddamn it!' She mentally screamed. 'That man is more dangerous than we thought! I have to end his life the first chance I get, but first...' She felt the torn page in her hand. 'I should pass this along. This intel is too valuable to sit on.'
As Chelsea under the guise as Warumo headed off, Saikyuu smiled at his desk lightly tapping a pen on his cheek.
"I'll admit, you have his mannerisms down." He spoke aloud. "Were I an ordinary human, I would've never known you were an imposter. I'll offer this half's spies as tribute to your brilliant performance. They are all expendable, so no harm done."
He looked over at Rongo Rongo, now place back in the drawer where he normally belonged. "My time in this country has been full of surprising sources of entertainment. I wonder how my other half is faring against our archenemy? That damn Reaper and his Southern Confederation..."
Saikyuu looked at the ceiling. "I suppose I'll find out soon. After all, we can see the end of this regime in site. Now the question is, what sort of move should I playing as Saikyuu, Secretary to Prime Minister Honest, carry out next?"
He smiled wide, flashing his teeth as he returned his gaze to the papers before him.
They were a collection personnel documents and dossiers of all the suspected traitors or those that would turn traitor when the tables turn. Honest tasked him with rooting out the rats and dealing with them in the usual manner.
On top of this collection, the being known as Saikyuu added a few more noticeable case files.
He grabbed one particular file, nodding to himself as he drew a circle around the attached picture of the individual detailed in the dossier.
A son of a wealthy merchant family that has bought themselves residence in the palace.
A youth known by the first name of Steven.
25 Days after the Revolution began. Near noon, The Capital
Chairmen Fuyu, leading the way, traveled the mostly vacant streets of the Capital on foot. Accompanying him are most of the remaining Jagears; Wave, Run, and Kurome.
Fuyu hummed as he went, a silly smile on his face to accompany the upbeat way he was walking. To be seen with such a man acting like this was rather embarrassing to say the least or it would be if more people were out and about.
Still, the Partas insisted on carrying on in such a manner.
"I thought we would be talking in his mansion..." Kurome stated, munching on her cookies. "Where do you think he's taking us?"
"I have no idea." Wave replied. "How about you Run? Did he tell you anything since you arrive earlier?"
Run shook his head with a laugh. "Sadly I haven't the foggiest idea. I spent most my time chatting with Seryu."
"Right, all we had time to do was say hello." Kurome chimed in. "Then Fuyu comes rushing in and drags us out here. Not that I mind but still."
"But the lack of people is...unnerving." Wave added.
Run frowned. "Just another example of how much the people live in fear thanks to Wild Hunt..."
Wave looked at the ground for a moment. "Makes you wonder what it is we're fighting for with allies like that..."
Kurome glanced at Wave, staring at him intensely for a moment but said nothing.
Fuyu looked over his shoulder, smirking at the sight but kept his thoughts to himself for once. He continued his exaggerated march, leading the trio towards a peculiar side of the city that is commonly more active at night.
Kurome was the first to realize the intended direction of their destination, eyes squinting at Fuyu as she munched on her cookies. A look of disappointment but otherwise she didn't react in the slightest.
Fuyu smiled. "Almost there you three!" He announced, looking over his shoulder.
A few minutes afterword, the group could see the target location not too far ahead of them though only Fuyu knew where they were heading.
It was a very different sight at night after all.
The Red Light District of the Imperial Capital.
"Hey," Kurome spoke up. "Why are we in the Red Light District?"
Wave did a double take. "We're where?"
"Ah that explains a few things." Run commented. "I've never been here in the daytime, but now that you've mentioned it I do recall a few of these buildings."
"What, you've been here before?" Wave whipped his head around. "Why?!"
"Patrolling the area, of course." Run answered, eyebrow raised. "What, did you think I would do something scandalous here with these type of workers?"
"WHAT DO YOU MEAN YOU DON'T HAVE ANY MONEY?!" A single voice yelled out, echoing across the nearly empty streets and interrupting the Jagears conversation. The doors to their intended destination: A triple story building with a raised staircase covered by an elegant archway leading up to a set of double doors.
In a way, this building resembled a tea house, a rather out of place sight for this debortuous district.
The double doors swung open with such violence a small gust of wind picked up. A single figure flew out with such force that he bounced of the ground twice before rolling along to the other side of the street.
The man: A rather plumb, balding figure of short stature dressed in plain clothes, was bleeding from his forehead. With great difficulty, he rose to a side with the support of his arms, shacking with equal part fear and anger.
He looked at the one who caused him such a wound, now standing in the open doorway of the one unique styled building this side of the district.
It was a teenage girl of fair complexion with golden blonde hair that stretched down to her shoulders and had amber colored eyes.
She wore an orange headband, black fingerless fighting gloves, a hoodie colored dark green on the outer half, white on the inner separated by an orange line, black booty shorts with while highlights, and black sneakers. Over all, she looked more like an athlete or boxer minus the abs though she did possess firm legs.
This was Fal, the third of the trio of girls Fuyu saved from the scum collectively known as the Enthusiasts.
With her legs spread and hands on her hips, Fal looked at the rather unattractive man with disgusted fury.
"The hell do you think you're trying to do, walking in here without any money?!" She screamed. "We don't give out any freebees here without the owner's specific orders bud! Go take your poor, ugly self somewhere that cares about whatever sob story I'm sure you'll try to preach to me to let you back in!"
"You...you dare!?" The balding man shouted. "Do you know how I am?! I'm the first cousin of Youkan-"
"No one is gonna give a rats ass about you fatso!" Fal cut in, smirking as she slowly stepped down to ground level. "Run along now. No need to show the masses, as scarce as they are today, that you have balls the size of acorns."
The furious man wiped blood from his eye, his teeth chattering as he rose to his feet. "Dumb bi-bitch!" He shouted, launching himself at Fal. "I'LL KILL YOU!"
Wave moved to assist but was waved down by Fuyu. Locking eyes with the young man, the latter stood down but remained alert.
Fal tilted her head, squinting her eyes as she frowned at the man now charging in blind fury. "Some people never learn..."
She rose her left leg straight up at a near 180 degree angle while maintaining perfect balance. One the agitated bastard reach her range, Fal struck down hard.
The heel of her foot hit the man's forehead dead on. A cracking of bone could be hear a moment before the ugly fat bastard face came crashing into the paved ground. A brief cloud of dust kicked up for a second as new cracks began to soak up some of the blood now trickling out in all directions.
Fal clapped her hands in that work-well-done way with a hump. "Serves you right, fat ass." She turned around, heading back to the tea house looking building when a series of clapping drew her attention.
The teen turned her head, eyes widening in joy upon registering the source of the noise.
Fuyu smiled, clapping in congratulations as the show of Fal protecting herself and the establishment he stationed her to guard. Run, ever polite, join in the act while Kurome look indifferent. Wave smiled slightly, unsure what else to do as he was currently at a lose.
"Well done Fal, just like we taught you!" Fuyu spoke, ceasing in his clapping. "Good work giving that scum what he deserves."
Fal ran across the distance between her and the chairmen, smiling wide. Run stopped clapping just as the young girl threw herself, arms wide, at Fuyu. The latter caught the young one as she rubbed her cheek against his, giggling.
"You rascal of a master! I missed you!" Fal spoke in joy. "I know Luna went to see you a few months ago, made me a little jealous until I head what she had to do. Glad I didn't have to appease that fat bastard. How's Air doing? You've been taking care of her right? If not, I'ma kick your ass mister!"
Fuyu laughed, placing his hands upon Fal's butt. "She's doing well, though acting a bit bolder than you remember. Finally convinced her to let me take her first awhile ago."
"Eh? What taking mine and Luna's wasn't enough for you huh?" Fal grinned her teeth in a smile, for the moment ignoring her Master's hands rubbing her lower cheeks. "You just wouldn't be satisfied till you lay with all the cute, attractive woman you lay your eyes on eh? Pervert."
"Hey come on Fal, I have standards."
"Right, there just aren't many."
"I...OK true but still! I don't go after other peoples' lovers unless they hit on me first."
"Uh huh. Sure, whatever helps you sleep at night, Master."
Fal let go, dropping to the ground as Fuyu returned his hands to his sides.
"How can I help you today, Master?" She leaned to the left and right, studying Wave, Kurome and Run for a few moments. "I see you brought some friends. They aren't new recruits are they? The one is pretty but far too old for the regular clients. The girl might make it."
Fuyu burst out laughing. "No, nothing of the sort I assure you! Besides, I'm sure she'd kill half the usual clients herself."
"That'd do the world a favor and let me breath easy for once. Please let her stay."
Fuyu patted Fal on the head. "Now now, you only have to put up with those scumbags a little longer."
"K. So what are you here for?" Fal smiled. "Not a social visit right?"
"Actually, its mostly that." Fuyu answered, looking over his shoulder. "I want to show these three another side of the Capital, and talk some business."
Fal crossed her arms. "You know best, sides with those Wild Hunt savages out and about we have a lot more room than usual." She turned around, heading back to the three story building she emerged from. "I'll make sure you all have your privacy."
With that, the group headed off. It was relatively silent for a moment as they drew near the body of the fat bastard.
"Where did you learn to fight?" Wave asked, curious how a rather small woman had such strength.
"Self taught at first." Fal answered, tilting her head back. "When Master her rescued me from a group of savage assholes pretending to be civilized men, he trained me to become super strong while retaining my cute form."
"I helped get her started is all." Fuyu cut in. "Head Maid Ophelia did the real work on her."
"Please don't mention that sadist in front of me, Master. I'm already in a shit mood thanks to this asshole." She spit upon the unconscious or dead man body after speaking as they were now passing it by.
"Haha, I'll keep that in mind." Fuyu answered.
The group began to head up the stairs when Run picked up the conversation.
"I thought these kinds of establishments open up at night?" He asked.
"Most do, but this one and a few others I own are open almost all day." Fuyu soundly answered. "While most rather not be seen partaking in such pleasures in the daytime, there are those that honestly don't care. Those clientele I have a firm monopoly on."
Arthur's note: From this point till the next divider is gonna feature topics that are sensitive to some. Those are prostitution and age of consent. The forward is obvious while the latter is a touchy topic depending on what part of the world you are in. At the time of writing IRL national standards are between 11 and 21 with the most common being between 14 to 18.
From what I have gathered in the Akame ga Kill universe, the age of consent is either 14 or the concept simply doesn't exist at all.
Evidence for both points are the fact that it's common practice for young children to be sold off to help villages pay off the high taxes the Empire imposes on its citizens.
Akame and Kurome are prime examples, giving their whole story portrayed in Akame ga Kill Zero and again in the Akame ga Kill manga chapter 23.5 that features Air, Luna and Fal.
That extra chapter shows us that its common for sold young girls are brutally raped and tormented beyond fucked logic all for the sick enjoyment of bastards that dare call themselves human. Granted, in that case no one knew that was gonna happen till it did but there are sure to be similar situations were they did know and did in anyway as everywhere outside the Capital is basically being bled dry.
This is a very dark universe but all of you reading should know that by now.
So by those examples I assume the Empire runs on a very young age of consent law or they operate on the whole IF IT BLEEDS IT BREEDS logic. For the sake of this story(and morality), I'm going with the forward.
That said, if you wanna avoid the portrayal of a bunch of 14-16 year olds playing prostitutes in a brothel for old perverts and/or rich clients feel free to skip down to the next dividing line(though it'll be mentioned a little and you will miss some important plot bits).
Not that we really go into too much detail or description about all that, but I feel it should be addressed none the less.
This has been you fair warning and now on with the story :D
The group entered the building, the sights within removing any shadow of a doubt the truth behind this establishment. While the outside may deceive some, the fact remains this place is a brothel.
The color of the walls were a mix of light and dark purples. Multiple sets of doors for single rooms located off to their left and some on the right. A little bit to the left and front lay a staircase leading to other rooms. To the right was a reception area featuring a long bar like table and a set of couches placed around a square table. The smell of narcotics was palpable.
Scatter around here and there are the would be clients, mostly middle aged to elderly men but some woman here and there, all of whom wore military uniforms, politician outfits, or dolled up in elegant or flashing outfits that screamed I'M RICH.
The majority of these people were very ugly by society's standards, featuring fat or super skinny figures, crooked noses, blemishes or warts, bald or thinning hair, and other such unattractive features.
Standing amongst them were the workers; various young teenage boys and girls in various revealing outfits that seemed to mostly be made with silk died in various eye appeasing colors and varied on the individual if they are see-through.
Thankfully, these characters didn't decide to do the deed for all to see. Unfortunately, some of these clients were being rather flirty to their chosen mates.
It was enough to make Wave avert his gaze, face in full blush. Kurome studied this new face portrayed on the young man, smiling to herself as she continued to munch on her cookies.
"Interesting company..." Run stated.
"Indeed, as you noticed they are all official members of the government or those with ties to said officials." Fuyu answered.
"Parasites, every last one of em." Fal added. "The Empire would be better off without the lot."
"Quite true, but do keep your voice down." Fuyu answered. "It'll be bad for business if they hear you."
"How old are these workers?" Run asked, eyes squinting a tad.
Fuyu turned around to face the young blond. "All of consensual age I assure you. No one under the age of 14 or older than 17 in this establishment, aside from clients and us of course. Feel free to ask if you doubt my words."
Fal and Fuyu ushered the Jagears toward the thankfully unoccupied couches. Run, Wave, and Kurome sat on one side while Fuyu and Fal sat on the other. Fuyu wrapped an arm around Fal as they got comfy.
"Now then, you must be wondering why I brought you all here." The Chairmen of the Senate started.
"Th-that did cross our minds." Wave blurted out, keeping his eyes low and his hands clenched upon his knees. Kurome found it cute how baffled the usually dependable man was being and decided to tease him.
"What's wrong Wave? Not used to seeing the night life?"
"I...have no idea how you are so calm about this!"
"Easy, I've assassinated plenty of targets in the middle of sex." Kurome shrugged. "You're all nervous over something that isn't a big deal."
"Yeah well, I am ok?"
Run cleared his throat. "Aside from an...unorthodox place to talk, why did you bring us here?"
"Two reasons." Fuyu raised two fingers with his free hand. "First, to show you all a side of the Capital hidden from view, one that I have an active hand in." He smirked, drifting his hand wrapped around Fal down and copped a feel as if for added effect. Fal let out a short yep, then shook her head before leaning it against Fuyu's chest.
"This sort of debauchery is something many entitled people of rank, most that have been personally appointment my the Prime Minister or his close circle, is but one sin that they conduct on a daily basis. Now, before you ask, I made this brothel along others to herd these sick fools."
"You mean control?" Kurome asked, eyes focused on Fuyu.
"No, more like shepherd." Fuyu replied, looking over his shoulders at the scum mixing with his servants. "If I didn't provide this service and made it readily available, what do you think those bastards would do to satisfy their fetishes?"
A pause of relative silence lasted to let that thought sink in.
"They would take random citizens off the streets." Run answered, frowning as he folded his hands together under his chin. "Further alienating the government and the masses with sparks of outrage."
"That in turn would provide the revolutionaries a firmer foundation within the Capital then the already have." Fuyu added with a nod.
"If I didn't stifle these people -if you would call them such- with pleasures that suited their tastes, then the rebels wouldn't even need to invade with an army. The people would simply allow as many covert groups like Night Raid to infiltrate the Capital, provide them with whatever necessary support, and sit back cheering as every government official gets assassinated."
"Then those people would be branded traitors and hunted down!" Kurome near shouted. "The government is doing everything they can to ensure peace for the Empire as a whole!"
"Kurome, you should know by now that the current officials holding the reigns only care about their self-interests." Fuyu shot back.
"They couldn't give a damn about the Empire as a whole. Look at Wild Hunt, a legal police force run by that entitled asshat Syura. If Prime Minister Honest sanctions a group that needlessly kills civilians in broad daylight, what does that say to everyone living in the Capital? How can they trust those that let a band of genocide rapists run around freely doing whatever the hell they please with governmental backing?"
Kurome lowered her head, shacking it back and forth. Years of indoctrination where being tested on the young assassin relentlessly these past while. Even she had growing doubts about those in power.
Fuyu let out a sigh. "It just goes to show how hard work can all be undone with a single, stupid decision." He leaned back, causing Fal to sit upright and look at him.
The Partas tilted his head up, placing his left hand upon his face.
"Everything I've done to keep the peace here in the Capital. All those years keeping a lid on the flames of anger these people hold for those fools in power, brushed aside by a man I loath the most in this world."
He let out another sigh. "Shame on me for delaying the inevitable. Should've just let the whole place burn if I know this was what my pain staking efforts would get me."
Wave clenched his hands. This wasn't what he was expecting...The Chairmen seemed so sure of himself before, so full of answers and clear of purpose.
Had the situation really gotten that out of hand?
No...it had...has been for some time now...
He witness proof the other day. When Wild Hunt tried to come after Seryu.
Like Fuyu said, if the government can approve of such a group...
"Maybe..." Wave said in a low, grim tone. "It's better if we let it all burn."
Silence.
A heavy silence was cast upon the group.
Kurome turned her head, a look of shock upon her face as if staring at Wave like he was some stranger she never knew before.
Run gazed in their direction but silently sympathized with the young man.
'For someone who was once so hopeful to reach such a point...' He thought. 'Speaks volumes on its own.'
"Yeah. I can understand your frustrations." Fuyu said after a few lasting moments. "Everything sucks right now so I totally get it." He threw his head forward, leaning closer to the table.
"I completely agree with that statement, Wave. That said, I don't think we need to burn everything to solve our problems."
"What do you mean by that, Chairmen Fuyu?" Run asked.
"Well, if we went about burning the foundations down to cinders, we'd be little different than the Revolutionary Army." Fuyu began his answer.
"They want to tear everything down and make a New Kingdom. Starting a nation from scratch is too much work. Instead why don't we focus on routing out the rotting cancer infecting the Capital?"
"You're talking about a coup." Run stated, crossing his leg over the other. "I agree. As things stand, that would be the only way to fix things."
"I-I won't have it." Kurome said, but not with as much vigor as she once would have. "We can't just...betray-"
"The Empire isn't going to heal otherwise." Fuyu cut her off. "We need to purge those that harm the very people you Jagears are suppose to protect. That's the only way we can begin to regain the peoples' trust and support."
"Didn't you once tell us that you wanted to create a would were those in power don't stand idle while those they are sworn to serve suffer, right Run?" Wave picked up. "Where justice will be served on the criminals that deserve it."
"In a paraphrased way, yes." Run confirmed.
"Is that so?" Fuyu added, tilting his head in curiosity.
Wave nodded. "What I want is a world at peace. I know enough now that I won't be able to obtain my ideal world in its entirety, so I'll settle for a world where those I care about are taken care of."
"Were they aren't killed before my eyes while I remain helpless or fear being despised of because they aren't seen as a useful asset." He genitally placed his hand upon Kurome's as he spoke that last bit.
"I want a world free of such pain...While that may seem like a naive notion given the way the world works, I'm going to try my damnedest to forge such a world with my own two hands. It might be pointless, but I don't care."
"An idealist answer." Fuyu nodded. "Dipped with the reality of the world. So...that's your answer to the question I asked so long ago."
Wave looked at the table before him. "I might have matured a lot over this past year, much in part to your help, but I have no idea how to go about my goal. Ever time I try by myself I end up seeing those around me suffer."
Run placed his hand upon the young man's shoulder. Without looking, Wave placed his hand upon his best friend's.
"I'm not that smart of a person, especially compared to you, Chairmen Fuyu." Wave locked eyes with Fuyu. "You want to make the Capital a better place for all? Fine by me. Tell me what you want and I'll do it. Come hell or high water, until the day you betray these ideals of mine I'll follow you."
Fuyu clapped his hand once, straightening his posture. "Good! I'm glad to have you aboard then!" He stood up, leaning across the table and held out his hand to Wave. Without any hesitation, Wave took his hand and shook it.
As this happened, Fuyu glanced at Run. "And you?"
"I'm with you." Run answered with a nod. "I intended to climb the ranks and change the Empire from within, but I see now that the corruption is too vast for one man to tackle on his own...and we've run out of time to play the long game."
Fuyu nodded, glancing at Kurome a moment after. "And you?"
"I..." Kurome blinked a few times. "My orders...are to eliminate the enemies of the Empire...but...if the enemies of the...Empire are those...that give me orders...then...what should I-"
She grabbed the sides of her head. "What should I-!? What...What have I been doing all this time?! It...makes my head hurt! My orders...they...they-!"
In a move that surprised most, Wave spun around and pulled Kurome in a hug. "W-Wave?!"
"We're going to make things right Kurome." He muttered. "We're going to set the Empire right and rid all those that get in the way of peace. I swear this to you. So please...stay with me."
"Wave..." Kurome blushed a little.
"Bold to give a love confession in a situation like this." Fuyu teased with a smile. "Asking her to stay with you in a brothel of all places, well you two are cute together so I can give your poor taste of time and place a pass hahaha."
Wave blushed, pulling himself up a bit but continued to hold Kurome as the pair looked at the Chairmen. "We...well it just..."
"Say no more." Fuyu laughed. "Let's chalk it up to never wasting a moment. Speaking of, you two are virgins right? Never even kissed anyone right?"
"I...I haven'-"
"Aside from my sister, I kissed someone once." Kurome answered honestly, face half flustered.
"You-you have?" Wave whipped his head back to the young assassin.
"It wasn't serious. Part of an undercover op I took part in a while back." She answered, averting her gaze from Wave. "Does...does that make it weird?"
Wave opened his mouth, but no intelligent words came out.
"I see, well let's remedy this situation!" Fuyu turned his head to Fal. "Can you go get Luna? I have an rather stimulating idea."
Fal flashed her teeth in a smile, shaking her heard. "Such a shameless Master. I got you through!" She hopped up from the couch. "She should be starting her shift soon, so perfect timing really."
As she headed off, Fuyu turned his head back to Wave and Kurome. The pair now separated from each other's grasp, faces blushed red in embarrassment.
"Do you remember Luna?" Fuyu asked, directing the question to Wave. "If not, that's fine. You two only meet once before is all."
Wave looked down. "No sir."
Fuyu nodded, and the group fell into silence once more as they waited for Fal to return.
In a matter of minutes, the tomboy bouncer returned with her childhood friend.
Luna, with her blue hair grown down to her neck and light blue eyes, wore an outfit suiting for brothel work.
She was dressed in a loose, light blue see through veil that left nothing to the imagination (she's a B cup), white-blue stockings that ran past her knees, matching frilly, fingerless gloves that extended past her elbows, a blue bunny ears hairband, and light blue panties that barely covered anything.
Stunningly cute and seemingly glowing even with all the dim light in this place. That is what many would think when first seeing Luna in her work clothes.
"There's my adorable snow rabbit." Fuyu said, standing up to greet the girl. The two hugged, Fuyu patting the back of Luna's head. "How have things been recently?"
"As good as it gets, given I'm a prostitute and all." Luna bluntly replied. "Though any troubles I have are usually handled rather brutishly by Fal."
"Damn straight, I do!" The tomboy nodded with an enthusiastic smirk. "Anyone messes with the girls or gals, I kick their asses into oblivion just like you told me to Master!"
"Good, good!" Fuyu replied with a laugh. He turned around, extending an arm towards the Jagears. "Do you remember Wave? He and his companions came for a visit."
"Ah, the cute soldier boy." Luna took a few steps forward, stopping beside the table. She place her hands upon her chest, just above her boobs, perked herself up a bit, and blushed slightly while giving Wave this innocent look. "Did you...come all this way to see me?"
Wave was taken aback by how someone so young could be so cute and attractive at the same time. His face turned a deeper shade of read as he leaned back into the couch, heart rising in his chest. The young man fumbled with words as he started to sweat.
Kurome pouted, pinching the side of Wave's leg.
"Ow Kurome, what-?!"
Fuyu, with Fal at his side, stepped to and stood behind Luna. He placed his hands on his snow rabbit shoulders before speaking. "I know right? She's a natural at seduction. Doesn't even have to try that hard."
"It's...alarming to say the least." Run, whom had been silently observing the past few minutes, spoke up.
"She's good at what she does." Fuyu said with a nod. "Which is why I propose that she help the two of you with your little predicament."
"Wh-what predicament?" Wave fumbled out.
Run's eyes widened a tad with realization. "Surely you jest."
"Not at all young Run." Fuyu began. "Seeing as we are talking about a coup where anyone of us can die once we get underway, I think its best we leave behind no regrets. So, I'm going to instruct Luna here to guide our two love birds here in the arts of bodily pleasure."
"In other words, you want me to take these two virgins upstairs and have a threesum."
"Basically, yes."
Luna closed her eyes. "You really are a lustful man."
"What can I say? Sex is one of the greatest pleasures on earth." Fuyu smiled. "We have no idea what may happen tomorrow so I think its best we help speed things along. Like I said, best not to leave any regrets."
Fuyu removed his hands from Luna, leaning over to Fal and placing a hand on her far shoulder.
"If you think Luna's a bit too much for you to handle, I recommend Fal here." Fuyu shamelessly said, patting the young girl's shoulder as the latter began to blush. "She does this trick with her thighs that I personally find adorable and-"
Fal, her face fully red with embarrassment, elbowed Fuyu in the stomach. She turned around, repeatably slamming her fists into her savor's chest as she spoke aloud.
"Why do you have to tell him that stuff?! That's a private service I'd only do for you, idiot!"
Fuyu, doubled over in pain, coughed several times. "Li-listen. I'm just looking out for the young lovers is all. While some might argue with me and let nature take its course I believe that having someone with experience would greatly improve their first time!"
Fal crossed her arms, pouting as she studied Wave. "...I'll admit he's cute but I decided that I'm a one man woman Master. So like it or not I'm only sleeping with you!"
Fuyu stood to his full height, taking in a breath before replying. "I'm flattered, but you shouldn't limit yourself to only me. Charming as I am, and likely to ruin all other men for you, there's no guarantee that I'll be around forever."
"I'll worry about that when and if the day comes." Fal soundly replied.
"OK, enough stalling." Luna stated, walking over to Wave. She wrapped her hands around his arms and pulled him up with surprising strength for such a small girl. "Come along, we only have so much time before my regulars come gushing in."
With that, Luna spun around and lead Wave along with one hand. Kurome, eyes widening, hopped up and quickly followed.
"Have fun you three!" Fuyu called out to the trio, sitting down on the couch once more with Fal at his side.
Luna lead the two upstairs, passing by several clients and fellow prostitutes, before arriving at a door decorated with blue bunny stickers, pictures, and other such items.
"My room." Luna stated, opening the door and soundly pulling Wave inside. Kurome followed, awkwardly closing the door behind her. She chose to lean against it, hands behind her back as she gazed into the carpeted floor.
The room held an obvious design; rabbits. All sorts of light blue colors with some reddish pink decorated the walls and furniture. It looked like a normal teenagers room, aside from being more spacious and having a transparent walled shower and bathroom further in.
Luna pulled Wave to the bed, spinning him around, then pushing on his shoulders to sit. Nodding, Luna spun on her heels then paced to Kurome. She grabbed the assassin, pushed her off the door then push marched her to the bed. She sat the blushing teen off to Wave's left, nodded, than sat down on the latter's right.
"Normally, I'd ask if you'd want to do this fast or slow," Luna spoke, turning slightly towards the two. "but since this is both your first times, I think its best we take things slowly till you find your rhythm." She placed her hand on Wave's leg and slowly began to rub it back and forth.
"Yo-you're the expert here..." Wave stuttered, looking toward the far wall.
Luna chuckled, leaning forward till Wave could feel her breath. She kissed his neck, causing the latter to jump a bit. "You're cute but so stiff." Luna said. "Loosen up."
"Easy for you to say!" Wave spoke.
"Mmmm..." Luna leaned over, looking a Kurome. "Hey, help me take off his clothes."
Kurome's eyes widened.
"Wha-"
"What?!" Wave shouted, now looking at the snow rabbit.
"Or you can take off yours first." Luna said. "Either is fine."
Blushing, Kurome stood up. She turned her back to Wave, arms reaching down to the ends of her shirt. "Don't...don't look ok?"
Wave closed his eyes, lowering his head. Luna placed his head in her chest, stroking the back of his dark blue hair. "My, you are burning up." She said with a chuckle. "Relax, you're just gonna make yourself sick at this rate."
Wave could do anything but relax. Still, Luna's stroking was strangely calming...
After a bit, he managed to loosen up a bit. Wave let out a breath, opening his eyes when he heard his name.
Raising his head ever so slowly, with Luna's hands shifting down to his shoulders, the young man was breathless.
Kurome took off her sailor outfit, looking to the side as she stood before Wave with only her black pantyhose and surprisingly adult black underwear.
"Sexy, isn't it?" Luna whispered in Wave's ear. "Such a cute girl wearing such things...All for you...Doesn't that make you feel...good?"
Wave gulped, slightly nodding without a word. Luna smiled, lightly blowing air into Wave's ear. "Go to her."
He stood up a bit too eagerly, surprising both girls. Wave took a few breaths before walking to Kurome. They stood chest to chest, well as best they could given the height difference.
Kurome had one hand up to her face, the other at her side, looking away from Wave as she looked utterly flustered. Wave never seen her like this before. He found it...cute.
Slowly, and awkwardly, Wave wrapped his arms around Kurome. The latter closed her eyes for a second, taking a few breaths before staring right into Wave's eyes.
The two softly called each others names, took a moment to gaze into the others' eyes, before Kurome rose up on her tippy toes, closed her eyes, and puckered out her lips.
Wave felt his heart skip a beat, then realized he could feel hers racing. With an almost forced smile, Wave brushed one hand through the side of her head.
"You're so beautiful Kurome..."
"Shut up and kiss me before I change my mind, idiot." She muttered through puckered lips. "Or are you too much of a coward to do it?"
Wave smirked, realizing that some things never change. He leaned down, wrapping one hand around Kurome's back while the other the back of her head. Taking another moment to look at her face, Wave closed his eyes and gave his first kiss to Kurome.
Luna gave the pair a cute yet smug smile.
"There. That wasn't so hard was it?"
A few minutes earlier...
"That should keep the pair busy for a few hours." Fuyu stated soon after Luna guided the young couple upstairs, then dismissed Fal to carry out her bouncer duties. "Now onto business, but first I thank you for playing along."
"Interesting game you're playing here." Run commented. "Lying while telling the truth. Answering questions while not really giving whole answers."
"It's how I've stayed alive in the grand pain in the ass game of politics for all this time." Fuyu smirked. "Besides, I've spoken the truth to those two. I am plotting a coup, just haven't given the pair any details."
"Nor have you told me." Run added.
"True, but I've told you our next step." Fuyu answered. "Wild Hunt needs to go, there's no doubt about it. We're simply hashing out the details relating to your revenge is all."
"Of which I am glad to have access to a portion of your information network." Run said with a nod. "With the intel, I have formed a workable plan."
"By all means." Fuyu gestured with his hand. "Let me hear and work out any issues."
Run smiled. "As you know, that fat bastard has particular tastes. He's also blindly gullible, jumping at any chance to...work on his art as he calls it."
"I intend to use that to my advantage, lure him to a destination of my choosing, and assassinate him."
"Simple, and workable." Fuyu spoke, rubbing his chin. "Do you have a time and ideal location in mind?"
"Night time for obvious reasons." Run answered. "As for location, I have to scout them out but I do have a few in mind."
"Backup?"
Run let out a sigh. "Originally, I planned on doing this myself. However, Serpentine has informed me on that clown's surprising vitality. I can hit him with everything I have and he still may live. Thus, I officially wish to request a helping hand if you can spare a man."
"I may have one or two under my employ who would be more than happy to assist." Fuyu smiled. "And I can gather up some masses with a bone to pick with Wild Hunt should you really want the man to drown in blood."
Run tapped his finger upon his knee. "Tempting, but no. One or two competent fighters should do." A cold look formed on the young man's face. "Besides, I don't want him to die in one go. I want him to suffer a bit. To pay for his sins in full before I send him to hell."
"My, now doesn't that send chills down the spine." Fuyu teased. "Very well, I approve of the plan. Tell me when you are ready to go and I'll arrange everything on my end."
Run smiled, closing his eyes as he bowed his head. "Thank you, Chairmen Fuyu. Oh and I would like it if Kurome and Wave do not get involved."
The young man leaned back. "Those two have enough problems, I rather not burden them with my personal baggage...Or show them my other self..."
"I'll mention nothing if you don't." Fuyu replied with a nod.
Run smirked sadly. "The costs of creating our ideal word...What is a few lies between friends if I can bring about long awaited justice?" He turned his head, studying the government officials mingling about.
"You never said everything about this establishment. About its real purpose."
Fuyu smiled. "Clever, but I should expect as much. Indeed, this brothel and others like it serve three main purposes."
"As I said earlier, I have a monopoly on this clientele." Fuyu continued. "A type of clientele that spills it secrets when seduced enough by wine, women, or men. Sinful pleasures make for loose lips after all."
"So, part of your spy network." Run concluded. "What better source of intel than from the very officials that have a hand in the day to day of the Capital."
"The second purpose is like I described earlier," Fuyu glanced at the sick bastards that called themselves human.
"These establishments are made to shepherd these sick fucks. Someone needs to guide their desires or they will run wild kidnapping whoever catches their fancy and place them in sex dungeons or whatever hole these scum crawl out of."
"Not everyone takes the bait of course. I say a good 89% of the deprived individuals in power frequent at least one of my many brothels strategically placed across the Empire. Not to mention the added boon of taking money from these privileged fools and using it toward their downfall. Oh the poetic irony."
Run nodded several times, crossing his arms. "And the third?"
Fuyu tilted his head, frowning at the young man. "I'm sure you've heard plenty of stories about villages across the Empire selling children to pay the outrageously high taxes."
Run's eyes narrowed. "You don't mean..."
Fuyu leaned forward. "A good number of these teens are those I've paid for directly. Others are those I've intercepted as their so called masters are monsters in the guise of men. I saved these kids, gave them a choice to aid in my cause, and this is the result of that choice."
"I haven't forced them to become spies under the cloak of prostitution. They had other options but this is what they chose to help me, their savior."
Fuyu looked at the young workers scattered about. "I spared them from a worse fate, in return they willingly sacrifice a part of themselves to make the world a better place. If that doesn't inspire you to make a difference, I don't know what will."
"I understand." Run said with a slight smile. "Guess I have to step up my game if I wish to made a difference."
Fuyu laughed. "Oh don't fret about that Run! We pull this off and everyone will be singing your name!"
32 Days after the Revolution began.
Finally, the members of Night Raid -minus Walker and Tatsumi- were fully healed from their previous encounter with General Esdeath.
While mostly incapacitated, they Revolutionary DarkOps group had received overwhelming requests by the citizens of the Capital through their usual channels.
All for the same thing.
The destruction of Wild Hunt.
The group prepared for their mission. To remove the dark stain plaguing the hearts and minds of the common people.
Though missing two members that should have returned from their trip to the RAHQ by now -some held them more dearly than others- each member of Night Raid knew what they must do now.
What awaited them on that cold winter night however, was something completely unexpected.
Something that would shake their belief in their leaders, and the revolution itself...
Najenda held a scrolled up paper in her hands. Official orders from HQ, no doubt authorizing an assassination order on Wild Hunt or so she believed. She paced to the room where her subordinates waited.
'Mine and Bulat keep asking about Tatsumi.' She thought, gazing at the paper. 'I'm worried too. Even delayed, they should've been back by now since our armies are marching from the south. Hopefully this dispatch will explain.'
A few minutes passed before Najenda enter their HQ's debriefing room which was for all appearances a fancy dinning room.
Susanoo, her Imperial Arms noticed her first, followed by Lubbock. Mine, Akame, Bulat, and Leone acknowledged their leader's arrival soon after.
The gathered around the center table, sitting in chairs with far larger backs than reasonable. Najenda took her place at the head of the table, sitting down in one swift motion as she held up the scroll for her subordinates to see.
"Falcon carrier just delivered this." She stated. "New orders from the top, most likely an official order to eliminate Wild Hunt...and maybe an explanation for our two missing members."
"About time we get orders to kill those monsters." Lubbock stated. "We've gotten a little too rusty, sitting idle this past month."
"Look at you, trying to play the badass." Leone teased. "Just cause Walker ain't here doesn't mean you can play the rough and rowdy type."
"Sh-shut up!" Lubbock slammed his hand on the table. "I can be whoever the hell I wanna be thank you very much!"
"Go ahead boss, lets see if HQ has some answers." Bulat cut in.
"If they don't, I'll march down their myself for some answers!" Mine added.
Akame simply nodded while Susanoo remained quiet.
Najenda closed her good eye, smiling. "Very well. You're right, we do deserve to know what's going on." She straightened her back, rolling the scroll open and began to read what was written.
It didn't take long for her blood to boil.
"What the hell is this?!" The leader of Night Raid shouted, slamming her metal fist into the table leaving a small dent. "Are those guys insane?! What happened?!"
As the others reacted in their own fashion, mostly looks of concern and nothing further, Susanoo calmly took the paper from his fuming master.
He read the words silently at first, comprehending his master's frustrations. "Indeed. This raises more questions than answers." He said before lowering the scroll.
"Well?" Lubbock, now raised out of his seat, threw his arms to his sides. "Gonna leave us in suspense big guy? Care to share what has Boss all pissed off?"
"Go ahead and read it to them Susanoo." A fuming Najenda said, her head handing low as she tried to contain her anger. "They deserve to know what's going on."
Susanoo nodded, clearing his throat before raising the scroll once more.
"Members of Night Raid, over one month ago, the operative known as Tatsumi and the mercenary known as Walker have committed high treason against the Revolutionary Army."
"Two members of the Revolutionary Council have been assassinated through their actions. Further more, the pair have been charged with sedition, bribery, and attempted murder of further council members."
"Effective immediately, their ranks and privileges provided by the Revolutionary Army are revoked. The fugitives Tatsumi and Walker have been declared high value targets and are to be eliminated on sight."
"THEY WHAT?!" Lubbock interrupted, slamming his hands on the table. "Tatsumi and...well maybe Walker, but Tatsumi would never-"
"There's more." Najenda pinched the bridge of her nose, interrupting whatever the others were about to chime in with. "Let Susanoo finish before we all raise hell."
Susanoo waited for Lubbock to give his consent before continuing.
"Due in part to your affiliation with the fugitives, questions have been raised concerning your loyalty."
"Henceforth, the DarkOps group known as Night Raid is officially disbanded. Individual members are to remain on standby and await reassignment. Former General Najenda is to return to HQ immediately for questioning. Imperial Arms Susanoo is to remain at former Night Raid HQ."
"Refusal of these orders will confirm growing suspensions against Night Raid concerning your commitment to the cause and result in an order for your complete and total termination."
"Signed, Commander-in-Chief Bifrost."
THUS ENDS ANOTHER ENTRY TO AKAME GA KILL: CLOCKWORK!
Goddamn we dropped some bombs in this one hahaha!
From introducing Run to Serpentine, setting the stage further with the conflict with the Path of Peace along with a hint of what Fuyu has in store, Esdeath beginning to form her artificial army, Chelsea discovering a major secret, a hint at Saikyuu's true identity that ties in with a number of other lore if u've been paying attention, Fuyu convincing Wave and by extension Kurome to aid in his goals (among other things :D) to the final bombshell thrown Night Raid's way.
There is a lot to go over and most will be expanded upon in later entries but I'll explain one bit now. Saikyuu and his book Rongo Rongo. Originally, the book was an Imperial Arms in the official cannon.
Here, it is a creature of sorts that originates from where Saikyuu hails from. A creature that records things on various maps in real time, which is super scary in itself. I felt this is a bit more...plausible both for what I plan and given how I've come to believe most Imperial Arms work.
As for Saikyuu, he is something relating to a bit of lore I dipped in the last entry. Something that will raise its head once we get around to explaining more about the Sons of Nors. That's a bit to look forward to as it'll be a big plot point later.
I decided to really twist this character into something more as, again, I hate it when certain characters are barely expanded upon when they have certain potential. This man is the mastermind behind many of the fucked thing that happened in the Empire after all! He's the reason Akame and Kurome were involved in all this mess!
We have to, by principle alone, give this guy as much effort as Prime Minister Honest if not more so in terms of story development.
Plus it just feels right having it all tie in with the cheeky girl with the ability to transform into whatever organic thing at will.
Now as you noticed, between Run, Wave, and Kurome, Fuyu has been convincing them to help change the Empire but he hasn't told them everything. This is something of a gamble for the Chairmen but worth it if he can remove Wild Hunt.
Gotta love how Wave has been thrown through the wringer through this entire journey of his. From dumbass hopeful that is a little too dumb when it comes to certain things, to more mature hopeful aware of the nature of the world, to loss of hope and doubting himself given that everything he is fighting for is coming into question, and coming to a state of determination to set things the way they should no matter the personal cost.
Feel like I've been giving Wave the favorite spot or something with all this attention hahaha.
Also yes, Wave and Kurome got laid. Luna played wingwoman and the forward lost his virginity in a threesum. Most of us guys would like that opportunity hahahaha.
And that brings us to the bit with Night Raid at the end. This sets the narrative for how serious what happened during Tatsumi and Walker's visit in BIG BOLD LETTERS really is.
Now the question remains: What really happened one month ago?
Find out on the next entry as it will be dedicated to the entire event and finally conclude that mystery!
Till next time!