Hello again, everyone! Welcome to Chapter 5 of Tatsumi Ga Kill. In this chapter, Tatsumi will help defeat intruders, train with Night Raid and defeat Iokal as well as Zanku the Executioner. There will also be focus on Esdeath and her conquest of the North. I like to think Instruments of Destruction (by N.R.G) would make a good theme for her army (both the official version and uncensored versions work).
We're also introduced to Prime Minister Honest (the main villain/antagonist). I genuinely think Only a Chilling Elegy would suit him.
Lastly, there's a mention of Tatsumi's parents in this chapter. Their theme would be Mind Space (DBZ: Budokai Tenkaichi 2). Thinking about it, I like to think Tatsumi would have Chou Super Dragon Soul as his theme. It's up to you as to which themes would suit who, though. Those are just my personal headcanons. Heh.
Once again, I want to thank every single one of you that has chosen to read this story, as well as those who have been following/favouring it. I am truly honored to know that people like my story. I mean that.
Anyway, I hope you enjoy this chapter.
Also, Air, Fal and Luna (and Mimi, for that matter) are now the same age as Tatsumi in this story, just to clarify (since the manga never revealed ages for them).
Ah, yes! We must cover the Reviews!
Guest (Chapter 4): I was thinking of having Tatsumi just train the girls for now. I also want the fanfic to be as original as possible. I do appreciate that you offered a suggestion, though.
ExcaliberShooter: Indeed. Tatsumi and his family should be able to expand without issue. Also, glad you liked Chapter 4. I agree that it had parts that were less detailed than others. I'll try to work on that next time. The woman who lost her fiance will be addressed in this chapter. Don't worry. Thanks again for your reviews.
Alright then. Let's get to it.
Note: All characters involved in intimate relations are 18 or over.
Disclaimer: I do not own anything. I do not own Akame Ga Kill or any of its characters.
Additional Disclaimer just in case: I own none of the music I just referenced above.
(Main Story, Imperial Capital, Various Locations)
The Capital of the Empire was never a stranger to gossip, rumours and strife. In fact, strife was essentially its bedrock. But in recent times, a particularly concerning/awe-inspiring (depends on who would be asked) legend emerged in the Capital, one shrouded in mystery. One that had no face…
(The Barracks)
An Imperial captain by the name of Xander drank from a bottle of alcohol. He had been recently promoted and was greeted by a mess of paperwork and reports at his desk. But that wasn't his primary concern as of right now.
He spoke aloud. "So Ogre's dead, then?"
A subordinate, Alex, responded. "Yes, sir. We found his body in an alley. His head had been removed from his shoulders. We can only assume his death was immediate."
The captain responded sharply. "I'm well aware of the logistics of decapitation, soldier. What I want to know is why. What the bloody hell happened that night?"
Silence.
A constable, Drew, spoke up. "Well, my cousin said he once saw a guy lose his head, and he was still conscious for a bit before-"
Xander lost his composure. "SHUT UP, DREW!" He then sighed and took a breath, turning back to Alex. "I trust you've started an investigation into his death? Do you have any witnesses? Evidence or leads of any kind?"
Drew and Alex looked at each other, as if wondering who would speak first. Alex decided to. "Well, witnesses just saw Ogre walking down Main Street. He had just left a tavern and had been conducting an interrogation. Some people said he was talking to someone…"
Xander narrowed his eyes. "Define someone…"
Alex cleared his throat, sweating nervously. "Well…. Some witnesses say they saw a man wearing a cloak. He looked quite tall…. But that's all we have. None of them got a good enough look at him. He seemed to speak in a hushed whisper… then he and Ogre went down a nearby alley. That's the last they saw of Ogre before he turned up dead."
Xander pondered Alex's report. "I see. Have you searched the perimeter for any signs of the cloaked man? Do you know where he went? Any trail we can follow?
Alex scratched his hair. "No, sir. We checked the rooftops, the alleys, and the nearby streets. We even questioned more of the locals. There's no sign or trace that anyone except Ogre had been there."
Xander countered immediately. "But someone HAD been there besides Ogre. That cloaked man! He's the prime suspect! And you're telling me he just vanished into thin air like a… a ghost? Main Street is one of the most heavily policed districts in the Capital. And not one person saw him? NOT ONE!?
Silence again. The Imperial Police had pointed the finger at Night Raid, and that hadn't changed. But it couldn't have been any of the ones on the wanted posters, obviously. So, it was likely a new recruit. But then… how could he just vanish so easily? It didn't make sense…. None of it made any damn sense!
Drew chose to speak once more. "Maybe it WAS a ghost."
Xander and Alex collectively groaned. "Not this again." Alex said.
Drew tried to defend himself. "I'm just saying! I mean… look what happened to Bach!"
Xander stiffened. "We've been through this, Drew. Bach and his clients had a disagreement. They killed each other. The. End."
Alex, surprisingly, questioned this. "But why would that happen? They had a good working relationship. It… It wasn't the first time they brought girls to that place."
The atmosphere grew tense. Bach and his clients' practises were not to be spoken of. Especially since Seryu was to NEVER find out.
Xander decided to quickly approach the subject. "Does… Does anyone know where those three girls are? Have you found them?"
Alex shook his head. "No, sir. There haven't been any sightings of them anywhere. We don't even know if they even left the mansion at all."
The Police had thoroughly searched the Enthusiasts' Mansion from top to bottom. They checked every room, every inch… nothing. The girls had been seen being dragged into the mansion, but they never came out. If they escaped, surely they would have been spotted by someone. If they were dead, there would be bodies. The girls had just…. Vanished off the face of the earth.
Just like the cloaked man.
The problem is that no one had seen anyone else enter the mansion other than Bach and his men. Not even Night Raid. They hadn't even heard fighting or sounds of an argument… They had heard the girls scream but then… nothing.
Alex had another theory. "Do you suppose that Ogre and Bach's deaths are related? They're only a week apart. It could be a serial killer like Zanku."
Admittedly, there was some merit to that, but Ogre and Bach couldn't have died by Zanku's hands. Zanku would have been seen on Main Street if he had dared to show his face. As for Bach, Zanku would have killed the girls as well, surely.
So as well as Zanku… they now had a "ghost" on their hands. Fucking brilliant.
Xander sighed heavily. He was getting too old for this. "Alright. Tell all street patrols to be on the lookout for any suspicious individuals. We'll pin Ogre's death on Night Raid. Bach's story must remain the same. He got into an argument and he and the Enthusiasts killed each other. Do you both understand?"
Alex and Drew nodded obediently.
Xander looked around and then spoke in a hushed whisper. "One more thing… the journal…. Do you have it?"
"No, sir." Alex replied.
Xander was red in the face. "WHAT!?"
Drew spoke again quickly. "It wasn't on Ogre, sir. We looked everywhere and examined everything, but Ogre's journal was gone. Whoever killed him must have taken it."
Xander sighed. This hopefully meant that Seryu didn't have it. If she ever found out what was written in there… They were all so fucked.
"Fine. You're both dismissed for the day. Ensure that Seryu doesn't learn anything about a journal or what Bach got up to. I'd rather not be eaten alive by that fucking mangy mutt of hers. And fetch Officer Waylon for me. Our armour needs polishing again." Xander said.
Drew spoke hesitantly, knowing Xander was going to lose his temper again. "He's asleep in a brothel house, sir."
And as predicted…
"WELL, WAKE HIM UP!"
(Imperial Garrison at Main Street)
As Jonathan did a weapon maintenance check, he found himself in a conversation with Eric about the…. The rumors. Whereas some believed the public story about Bach's death, these two were more skeptical. But they valued their lives, so they never talked back to their superiors.
"Nah, someone killed them. I'll bet my commision that it was probably a new assassin. You've heard the story, right? Eric said, pestering his colleague.
Jonathan responded, still tending to the weapons. "The ones about a supposed phantom or spirit. Yeah, and it's probably bullshit. I'm telling you, it's a guy like anyone else."
Eric continued. "They're making up stories about him now. A man you don't dare look in the eyes. You could even just blink at him and you'd be dead straight away. They say he knows you better than you know yourself."
Jonathan replied. "How would they know what he looks like? No one saw anything…. Well, out of the ordinary that night." This comment caused them to shudder. It was common knowledge among some of the Capital about Bach's business practises. Knowing what they allowed to happen… It made it difficult to sleep at night.
"They think that Bach and Ogre's deaths are related. The guy last seen with Ogre…. People think he killed Bach, somehow. They claim he wanted nothing…. Not gold or titles. He didn't say anything, either. He just went through the mansion like the Grim Reaper himself. He killed those men. All of them. Hell, he even killed their sex-crazed dog. Bach and the others probably didn't even have time to beg… but that's just how the stories go." Eric said as he recounted the rumors. Again, no one actually saw anyone suspicious enter the mansion (or leave), but people loved gossip and speculation.
Then Eric added something chilling. "Do you think he's coming for us next? He could be watching us right now…"
Eric had always thought that this mysterious assassin was probably like Akame and Kurome… but at least they were human… this man did not seem human at all…
Jonathan gulped…. The thought had crossed his mind. "I… I don't know… but we can take him, right? He can't be all that scary, right?"
Eric replied. "Ogre probably thought the same thing."
Silence. If this "Demon of Death" (as the figure was known to some) was able to take out the infamous Ogre… Jonathan and Eric didn't stand much of a chance themselves…
Eric and Jonathan sat in silence… complimenting the gravity of their situation… then Eric joked.
"If he kills you first, I'll be sure to tell people how valient you were…heh…. Valiantly quaking in your boots, I mean."
Jonathan decided he was going to get a transfer. He replied to Eric. "Eric, just so you know… I hate you."
Eric just chuckled.
(Brothel)
Two women, having finished with their clients, were gossiping about the "Handsome Angel."
"I bet he's really sexy underneath that cloak. I bet one look could impregnate any woman." Delilah fantasised whilst filing her nails.
Jessica rolled her eyes next to her, applying makeup. Naturally, they were discussing the rumors spreading of a Divine Knight who brings light to the darkness.
Jessica replied, scoffing. "I know thinking about sex comes with the job, but could you keep your mind out of the gutter for one minute?"
Delilah giggled. "Oh, come now, dear. Surely you imagine what he looks like underneath that cloak of his. How tall he is, how handsome. How long and hard his sword is, how you'd be practically weightless as he carries you into bed. Hehehe…. Just thinking about it makes me giddy, he's playing havoc with my ovaries, I tell you. I don't even know him… and I still want him."
Jessica, with a deadpan expression, commented. "You are something else, Delilah… by the way, is Waylon still asleep?"
Delilah cringed at the mention of the slovenly officer. "Yeah. The slob passed out after five minutes with me. Either he was that inebriated or he was that bored with me… Do you know what he said to me? When I asked who I should dress up as, since he's into that, do you know what he said?"
Jessica guessed. "A noblewoman? General Esdeath? That crazy Seryu chick?"
Delilah answered. "No. None of them. He said, and I quote, "I don't know. Prime Minister Honest, for all I care. I'm way too drunk." Yeah… that's what he said."
Jessica and Delilah burst out laughing.
Yes, the legend of a mysterious, Divine assassin had spread quite quickly throughout the Capital, indeed.
(Night Raid's Base, Afternoon)
All things considered, things had been going well recently for Night Raid. Najenda blew a cloud of smoke from her cigar as she watched Tatsumi train with Aria, Fal, Luna, Sayo and Aria. Tatsumi always allowed them the first strike. He knew he couldn't do the same on the battlefield, but this wasn't the battlefield, and these were people he would die for.
He always tended to injuries and apologised afterwards (even to Aria), but he reaffirmed that it was important that everyone knew how to defend themselves. Sayo specialized in ranged combat, but Tatsumi felt that she needed to be ready for up close combat.
After Tatsumi dealt with the Enthusiasts and Bach, he took a substantial amount of gold from the Enthusiasts' vault (they had planned to pay the sum to Bach) before escaping with Air, Fal and Luna. The gold wasn't for himself, though. After killing Ogre, Tatsumi secretly met with the client of that contract (the woman who lost her fiance thanks to Ogre and Gamal). He gave her the mansion gold and even cured her disease that she contracted. The client and her family were able to move out of the Capital the next day. Tatsumi still remembered the tearful smile and thanks that he had received from her. Of course, there was no need for thanks, but between this and rescuing Sayo and the girls, Tatsumi… felt truly happy. He really felt like he was starting to make a difference.
"In battle, you need to utilise the unorthodox as well as the usual techniques. Control your opponents' central lines. Keep them guessing and keep their focus broken. Keep a firm grip on your weapon, but not too tightly. Think of your blade as an extension of yourself." Tatsumi said. He made sure to teach them hand-to-hand combat as well, focusing on different styles and how to balance them out.
Air, Fal, Luna, Sayo and Aria often sparred with each other. Other times, the five sparred with Tatsumi himself. The objective during those sessions was to land a single blow on him. That was easier said than done, however.
Sayo performed the best out of the five. Fal, Air and Luna were also quite formidable. They had learnt basic skills in their village, but nothing on this level. Aria was catching up and had improved dramatically. At first, she found training difficult. Her now deceased guards were meant to do the fighting for her. But she clearly wanted to learn and better herself, and that was reflected in her training.
Naturally, Tatsumi had his training, as well. Starting from tomorrow, he would begin his training with the other Night Raid members. The first was going to be Mine (much to the Genius Sniper's shock). Tatsumi hoped they would be able to work together, but right now, he had other things on his mind.
Namely… Ogre's Journal. What Tatsumi read made him sick. On top of everything he had read (Murder, framing innocents, ect.), Tatsumi remembered one section where Ogre was going to let Gamal have his way with Seryu for extra gold. Gamal had been wanting to…. Try her out for a long time…The only reason this never happened is because Tatsumi and Night Raid killed them both. He didn't know how he felt about Seryu yet… but even she didn't deserve that. Still, the time was approaching where he would encounter her… where she would kill Sheele. He had to be ready.
Suddenly, Lubbock burst into the training yard in a hurry. "Boss! Guys! Big problem! Intruders! Assassins! Eight of them!"
(Perimeter of the base)
Tatsumi, along with a few others, were quickly selected by Najenda to intercept the intruders… and make their trip very short. Bulat was paired with Tatsumi.
"Come, Tatsumi! Let's show them our combined awesome power!" Bulat declared.
"You can count on me, Big Bro!" Tatsumi replied.
Tatsumi and Bulat crushed their foes with minimal effort. Bulat donned Incursio and unleashed his raging spirit. Tatsumi simply carved through his enemies like a hot knife through butter, without needing to use Messiah's armour.
Mine had incinerated a fleeing assassin with Pumpkin, while Sheele cut down another enemy who attempted to ambush Mine.
Leone (in her Lionele form) sat atop a pile of corpses, her hands stained crimson with blood. Elsewhere, Akame faced off with a small group of opponents.
One assassin leered at her. "Hey. She's pretty cute. We should have some fun with her when she's dead-"
Akame had sliced through the group of men in a mere second. All except one briefly survived… but then Murasame's curse killed him. Akame sheathed her Teigu and walked away.
Meanwhile, Lubbock had found a girl restrained by his Cross Tail wires. She begged and pleaded for her life… but Lubbock knew better than to trust her. She was an assassin and had likely killed a man using seduction before. Lubbock knew from experience.
With a simple "nope," Lubbock tightened his grip on the wires, but before Lubbock could kill her, Tatsumi appeared and cut the woman free from her bindings.
Lubbock was stunned, to put it mildly. "Wha- Tatsumi! What the hell are you doing?"
Tatsumi held the female assassin in his arms bridal style and turned toward Lubbock. "Let me speak to this woman before you do anything. I think she can help the Revolutionary Army."
Lubbock wasn't having any of it. "Are you crazy? This girl's probably killed dozens of people! One of my friends died because they trusted a girl like her! You're putting us all at risk, you bastard!"
Tatsumi responded calmly. "I promise that I won't let her harm anyone. I just want her to be given a chance."
Lubbock scoffed, but he knew that there was nothing he could really do. If Tatsumi wasn't going to budge, then Lubbock had to hope that Tatsumi knew what he was doing… Or they would all end up paying for it.
"Fine… Let's get back to the others, then. I bet they're all dying to see you, as usual." Lubbock replied sarcastically.
Tatsumi, with the assassin still in his arms, followed Lubbock out of the cave. He spoke to the girl he was carrying. "What's your name, miss?"
The girl replied nervously, but truthfully. "Maya. My name is Maya."
Tatsumi nodded. "Alright, Maya. We're going to take you back to base. Please don't do anything to make me regret this decision, or I'll have to put a stop to you. Understood?"
Maya replied with a genuine smile. "Yes, I understand. Thank you for sparing my life, sir."
Meanwhile, Lubbock was silently bitter and envious. In a single moment, Tatsumi had upstaged Lubbock. He spared the girl Lubbock was going to kill, and was likely going to effortlessly win Maya over. Lubbock wished he could do what Tatsumi could… but Lubbock wasn't Tatsumi. A certain memory of Tatsumi causing Najenda to blush entered his mind.
"No… I'll never be Tatsumi… will I? Lubbock thought bitterly.
(Later)
With all hostiles neutralised, Tatsumi and the rest of the group had returned to base. He explained the situation regarding Maya to the others. They were unsure as to how this would play out in the long run, but they chose to trust Tatsumi's judgment. Tatsumi set Maya down once they returned to Night Raid HQ. Messiah had searched her soul for ill intent, and found that Maya had no intent to betray Tatsumi's kindness.
Aria, Sayo, Air, Fal and Luna gave Tatsumi a hero's welcome, much to Lubbock's chagrin. Aria and Sayo had looked Tatsumi over for wounds, whereas Tatsumi's Sister Squad (as Air, Fal and Luna were collectively known) tackled Tatsumi in a hug, which the boy returned. Najenda stood up from her chair and… struck a cool pose.
"Good work, team. We've avoided the worse-case scenario for now. Looks like those fools met a… dead-end." Najenda said.
…
Tatsumi gave a warm chuckle. "I have to say, that was quite clever, Boss."
Najenda smirked… her cheeks slightly red from Tatsumi's praise. She had wanted to look impressive in front of him, and it seemed to be working.
Lubbock quickly spoke up. "I… uh… I found it funny, too."
Najenda replied nonchalantly with a neutral expression. "Oh, right, good."
Glass shattered in Lubbock's mind. She had just brushed him off… Just like that.
Najenda debriefed Night Raid. "Right, just so you all know, Tatsumi will be training with you one by one starting from tomorrow. Mine, you'll be first."
Mine grumbled with a blush. "Yes, Boss."
As for Maya, it was decided that Tatsumi would escort her to a nearby rebel outpost. When they arrived, Maya offered to become a scout for the Revolutionary Army. Tatsumi had no doubt that Maya would be happy with her new job.
(That Night)
After tucking the Sister Squad into bed and reading them a story, Tatsumi returned to his room to rest. Tomorrow wouldn't be easy. Mine was probably going to test his patience to its very limit. But… he knew he couldn't be angry at her…. Not after all he had seen.
Tatsumi couldn't help but think about his village, about Ieyasu. He wondered how they were all doing. Admittedly, Tatsumi had once been jealous of Ieyasu. The reason being that Sayo once had a crush on him (at least in the original timeline). Before their original journey to the capital, Ieyasu had fantasised over the "Hot babes" they would find there, which Sayo punched him for. In this timeline, it happened a bit differently.
(Flashback, Tatsumi's village)
"This is a map of the Capital. When you get there… you're gonna want to remember the routes to travel and all that." Ieyasu said to Sayo and Tatsumi.
Admittedly, Tatsumi wasn't focused on Ieyasu's advice… He was more focused on how good Sayo looked in her robes… especially with how-
Messiah cleared his throat. Tatsumi stood at attention. Sayo had noticed his gaze and blushed with a small smile. Ttasumi simply scratched his head while looking away.
"Damn it, Tatsumi. I'm jealous. I bet you're gonna be surrounded by hordes of hot babes!" Ieyasu exclaimed, still lamenting that he wasn't joining his friends on their journey.
Sayo simply sighed. "Geez, Ieyasu. You're going to find it difficult to get a girlfriend if you keep that up."
Tatsumi decided to join in. "To be fair, the Capital's women…. They are said to be quite beautiful."
Tatsumi's innocent admission had caused him to be placed in an aggressive headlock by Sayo. "Baka! Tatsumi is a baka!"
Tatsumi struggled in her grip, but couldn't help but smile. "What? I'm just saying…"
Ieyasu also chuckled and thought to himself. 'Look after her, Tatsumi… and don't take her feelings for granted forever…'.
(Flashback end)
Tatsumi smiled softly as he remembered. He often dreamt of marrying Sayo back when they lived in the village… maybe someday, they might actually be married, after all…
He reflected on it all, his training with Messiah, His time with Night Raid… he smiled sadly. If only his parents could see him now.
His mother, Iris. And his father, Ryu.
They were the bravest, most selfless parents that Tatsumi could have ever had.
Iris was the heart of the village. She tended to the sick and elderly, and always thought of others before herself. Ryu was a serious man with an indomitable will, to be sure… but he loved his village, his wife and his son more than life itself. Tatsumi's birth was the happiest day of their lives.
Tatsumi only remembered some parts of his childhood that were before he met Messiah. The village Elder, who cared for Tatsumi as if he were the Elder's own son, told him the full story.
When Tatsumi was five, Prime Minister Honest had decided to raise taxes. Tatsumi's village suffered dearly and struggled to get by. Iris succumbed to an illness that no one could afford to cure. Her decline had accelerated because she wasn't eating enough food…. Because she gave her portions to Tatsumi so he wouldn't starve. Ryu mourned his wife, but promised to protect Tatsumi with his life… and that's what he ultimately did.
One week, the village failed to pay up. Honest ordered the death of one of the inhabitants. At random, the soldiers that were sent to the village selected a five-year old Tatsumi as a "tribute". But before they could kill him, Ryu stepped forward.
"Kill me instead." Ryu demanded… and they did. His last request to the Village Elder was to protect Tatsumi… and remind him every day that his parents would always love him and watch over him from the stars.
When Tatsumi met Messiah and gained the power to write the world's wrongs, he swore he would kill Honest and avenge his parents. Even now, that has not changed.
But Tatsumi never forgot his first and most important mission: To save his friends and the ones that he loves… even at the cost of his own life.
No matter what, He would live for the sake of others… just like his parents did.
(The next morning)
Tatsumi was summoned to the Main Hall after waking up. He was greeted by Najenda and Leone.
"Tatsumi, you're up. Good. Since you're learning from Mine today, why don't you go get her? She should be in her room, I think." Najenda suggested.
Tatsumi nodded and headed to Mine's room. He remembered that, in the original timeline, he simply opened the door and caught sight of Mine in nothing but her underwear. This time, he wisely knocked, as he didn't fancy having to dodge blasts from Pumpkin.
"Who is it?" Mine asked from behind the door.
"It's Tatsumi. We're training today, remember?" Tatsumi replied.
"Yeah, don't remind me… Could you wait there for a minute?" Mine asked.
Tatsumi did as he was asked. A minute later, Mine stepped out of her room. "Thanks for knocking. I'd thought you'd burst in like a pervert or something." Mine said.
"Don't worry about it. Now, what are we doing today?" Tatsumi asked.
"We're going to the Capital. I need to teach you about blending in. Also, you're my subordinate. So, I expect you to be on your best behaviour." Mine explained.
(That afternoon, Streets of the Capital)
As he wandered through the streets with Mine at his side, Tatsumi received a grim reminder of the corruption he was fighting against. Citizens living in poverty, Imperial Police bullying the innocent. It made him sick to his stomach. As they walked, Tatsumi and Mine stopped at an alley. There, they saw two delinquents harassing a young girl, a refugee.
"What are you assholes doing?" Mine barked.
One of the delinquents sneered. "Move along, lady. This kid has to do what we say. She's just a-"
Tatsumi stepped forwards, wordlessly, and sliced off the men's trousers. They ran off in embarrassment. The refugee stood in silence as she looked at the boy- no, the Angel- who saved her. She had no idea who he was, but he had stepped in to help her…. And he exuded such a heavenly aura of goodness. Maybe he really was an Angel.
Tatsumi silently knelt to the girl's level and handed her a fresh apple, one that he had bought from a market earlier. The girl took a bite… It was delicious!
"Thank you so much, Mister." The girl quietly said, with a bright smile on her face.
"No need to thank me. Stay out of trouble." Tatsumi said with his own soothing smile.
"Just… learn how to protect yourself, alright?" Mine gently advised the girl. Mine and Tatsumi left the alley. The Genius sniper was trying to forget how wholesome and sweet that was.
The duo continued their journey. Just like the previous timeline, they encountered five wanted posters on the wall…
….
Wait… five? Wasn't there meant to be only four?
Tatsumi took another look at the wall of Wanted Posters. Mine stood next to him as he did.
The three posters on the bottom row weren't a surprise. Najenda, Sheele and Bulat (with his pre-Night Raid appearance). One of the two above them was Akame's wanted poster.
Then, he looked at the other poster next to Akame's. The poster's illustration was simply of a faceless, cloaked man with devil's horns on his head. Question marks were also above the man's head, and a single question mark was in the space where there would be a name and affiliation. There was a bounty of 666,666 gold. The subtitle read: Wanted DEAD. That was it.
So… it would appear that Tatsumi had left quite the impression. But at least they didn't know his face.
Mine cleared her throat. "Right, then. Ready to begin our mission?"
Tatsumi replied. "Yes, of course. You can count on me, Mine."
And with what Mine made Tatsumi do next, it was clear that she took those words to heart… much to Tatsumi's peril.
(Three Hours later)
Tatsumi didn't know if Aria told Mine about the things she made Tatsumi do, or if he was just destined to be every girl's manservant. But Mine had made Tatsumi carry ALL of her shopping whilst at the Capital. For three hours straight, Tatsumi had to sit through Mine trying on different outfits and dresses. All the while, he was being mistaken for Mine's boyfriend (though Mine never denied the claims for some reason). Though Tatsumi had to admit that Mine looked really good in a maid outfit. Secretly, Tatsumi took the opportunity to buy gifts for the others. He had asked Mine what everyone liked. When they returned to base, Tatsumi would store the gifts in his room. They would be a surprise for later.
They were now at a cafe, and Mine looked particularly pleased with herself. "Mission complete. What a successful day off."
Tatsumi shrugged his shoulders. "I suppose. Thanks… I enjoyed my time with you today, Mine."
Mine blushed at Tatsumi's words. He wasn't angry at all for being treated like a butler. He wasn't even being sarcastic… He liked being around her… and he meant every word.
"Well… You weren't so bad yourself. You made sure that you didn't stand out, and you were pretty reliable. Not bad for a newbie. But then, considering that I was the one teaching you, of course you wouldn't fail." Mine complemented Tatsumi… in her own way, of course.
"Of course. I owe a lot to you, Mine… Thank you," Tatsumi replied with his signature smile.
"Gods, this guy is gonna be the death of me." Mine thought, another blush appearing on her cheeks.
As they conversed, they noticed several civilians heading in a certain direction… Tatsumi and Mine both knew where they were going… The Plaza that was often used for public executions.
Tatsumi had seen it before, of course… but as they arrived at the Plaza, Tatsumi felt like he was going to vomit. A legion of poor souls tied to (and nailed to) crosses. Their screams filled the Plaza… and yet the civilians were desensitized. To them, this was nothing new.
Tatsumi could only guess they had the misfortune of suffering the wrath of… him.
As Tatsumi looked toward the direction of the Imperial Palace, whilst clenching his fists so tightly that he could break steel, Tatsumi could only guess that he was there.
Prime Minister Honest.
(Imperial Palace)
Inside the throne room of the Imperial Palace, the young Emperor Makoto sat atop his throne, ready to pass his judgment on the latest traitor…. But everyone else in the room knew it wasn't Makoto's judgment at all. It was Honest's.
Makoto, staff in hand, spoke with uncertainty and as if he was reciting a script. "Domestic Affairs Official Shoui. For speaking against my policies, as well as delaying governmental affairs, you are hereby sentenced to death by being drawn and quartered by bulls."
Shoui, kneeling in front of the court, went pale. The six members of the Imperial court (who were each hand picked by Honest) who were inside the room went pale, as well. They all knew that Shoui hadn't actually betrayed the Emperor… he had just spoken out against Honest one too many times.
Makoto turned to his right. "This is what needs to be done…. Right, Minister?"
As if on cue, Prime Minister Honest appeared from the shadows, chewing on a large piece of meat. He had an incredibly wide grin on his face. "Yes, My Lord. Excellent work. You are an incredibly wise ruler."
Makoto noticed that Honest was eating meat (again), but accepted Honest's explanation that it's best when fresh. Shoui, in a moment of desperation, cried out. "Your Majesty, please! Honest is tricking you! He is whispering poison into your ear! Please, I beg of you, listen to your people!"
Honest nonchalantly replied. "Oh, I'm sure that he's just gone mad. Pay no mind to him, My Lord. As for you, Sir Shoui, this is our sad farewell."
Shoui's pleas grew more desperate. "My Emperor! Please think of our Empire and its people! At this rate, it is doomed! That man will lead us all into damnation!"
Honest decided to approach Shoui and stood in front of him. Honest covered his face with his hands, as if to feign grief… then, as he knelt, he moved his hands, and Shoui saw what could only be described as the true face of Evil. The Devil Himself was clearly walking the earth…. And named himself Honest.
"Sir Shoui, please don't worry at all about that beautiful wife that you're leaving behind… I will take care of her… to the fullest extent." Honest spoke with a smirk, running his tongue over his lips.
Shoui, currently in despair, was dragged away for his punishment. His last thoughts were of hope, however. Hope that, one day, a Hero would rise to end that man… no, that Devil and his tyranny.
(Iokal's Mansion, Night Time)
Tatsumi sprinted through the forests alongside Bulat, Sheele, Akame, Lubbock and Mine. He remembered Najenda's briefing.
(Flashback)
"We have a new assignment. Your target this time is Iokal. He is a relative of Minister Honest. Iokal uses his connection to Honest to be able to kidnap women and savagely beat them to death. His five men are complicit in his crimes. They have been getting their own shares, and have been confirmed guilty." Najenda spoke as she stabbed an image of Iokal with a dagger.
She continued. "This is an important mission, so I'll be sending quite a few of you on this one. Strike fast and true. Deliver swift judgment on them."
Tatsumi had left the room to explain to the newly formed Team Tatsumi what was going on. Team Tatsumi consisted of Sayo, Aria and the Sister Squad. Apparently, it was Fal's idea of honoring her Big Bro. Tatsumi nearly died from cuteness overload… again.
When Tatsumi left the Hall, Najenda privately spoke to the other Night Raid members. "I have an additional objective for the rest of you. From this mission onward, if you can, try to compile a report on Tatsumi. I trust him, of course, but I want to know more about him… his fighting style, his movements, any abilities he has from his Teigu. Report back to me when the mission's over. Dismissed."
While Tatsumi and the others were out, Najenda intended to have a discussion with the members of Team Tatsumi about what they knew about him. She…. She hoped to learn his likes and dislikes, his favourite type of gift, what his favourite meal was… for purely professional reasons, of course.
(Flashback end)
Tatsumi and Mine took up positions on a cliff overlooking the mansion that Iokal lived in. Mine prepared Pumpkin. Tatsumi was ready to leap into action when Iokal's guards would come running.
Tatsumi remembered his code, the one he and Messiah devised together: Only kill those who must die. Do NOT harm any civilians or non-combatants. Mine must have sensed some of his thoughts from her next words.
"Don't worry. We're only killing Iokal and his guards. That's it. You can trust us… especially me." Mine said as she lined up her shot.
"Yes… I trust all of you, Mine. More than you'll ever know." Tatsumi quietly remarked.
Mine kept her composure, but secretly she was trying to fight off another blush (how many times had she blushed because of Tatsumi now?). She saw Iokal stepping out of his mansion, that smug arrogant grin never leaving his face.
Mine lined up her shot with Pumpkin, controlled her breathing… and fired a shot. Pumpkin's bullet travelled all the way across the forest, to the mansion… and then into Iokal's head. His lifeless corpse hit the floor with a sickening thud.
Mine hoisted Pumpkin over her shoulder with a smug, victorious grin "Not bad, if I do say so myself."
Immediately after Iokal's death, his elite guardsman dashed into the forest in hot pursuit of the killer.
"After them! If they escape, Honest will have all of our heads!" One guard ordered. They were panicking immensely. They had trained at Koukenji, The Empire's top martial arts temple. And yet this happened on their watch… How in Hell's name were they going to explain this!?
"Do you think… that he is here, too?" One guard asked with a cold sweat.
Another chimed in. "If that cloaked bastard is here, then either he kills us or Honest does. I don't know which is fucking worse!"
Night Raid intercepted the guards. Leone was particularly pleased that she could go all out. "Hell yeah! Let's do this!"
It was a short battle. The guards put up a good fight, but they were struck down all the same. Leone certainly felt better, letting out all of that pent-up agitation. But then they did a recount. There were supposed to be five guards… yet there were only four corpses.
Lubbock sighed. "Damn. I didn't even kill any of them."
Leone chimed in. "Well, I guess this means that you only get half the reward, Lubbock. Too bad for you. You really should start training with Tatsumi. He could teach you a thing or two."
Lubbock stiffened as Leone said that, which Bulat noticed. Tatsumi wasn't even here, yet he was getting the spotlight… again.
'Yeah… because Tatsumi's just SO great, isn't he?' Lubbock thought to himself. He walked off to the rendezvous point without saying a word.
"What's his problem?" Leone asked the others.
"When we return to base… I'll talk to him, man-to-man. I don't know for sure what the issue is… but… I have a guess" Bulat said.
(Rendezvous Point beneath the cherry blossom tree)
Tatsumi and Mine approached the Rendezvous Point. This is where they would meet up with the others once they had dispatched the guards. Mine was trying to fight back ANOTHER blush. When Mine and Tatsumi arrived at a higher ledge that they needed to climb, Tatsumi, without saying a word, picked up Mine bridal style and jumped, safely and perfectly landing on the path above. Mine didn't protest, despite her embarrassment. Instead, she focused on how safe and warm she felt in Tatsumi's grasp, how he held her like she weighed nothing at all.
Mine decided to tell Tatsumi a bit more about herself, on their way to their destination. Mine was from a land near the western border and was half foreigner. She was often insulted and discriminated against, and people threw things at her. That was why she joined the Revolutionary Army. They were friends with the western foreigners. She wanted to help bring about a world where geography didn't matter, and that no-one else would ever go through what she did.
"Plus, I'll get rich from helping the rebels and I'll be able to live a life of luxury. Ah-hahahaha!" Mine chose to add.
However, Tatsumi just smiled. He would do all he could to help bring about Mine's dream.
After more walking, the assassin duo arrived at the Rendezvous Point. At the center stood a beautiful cherry blossom tree. In a way, the tree reminded him of Mine.
Tatsumi was then snapped out of his reverie. He sensed there was something amiss. They weren't alone.
From behind Tatsumi and Mine, slowly approaching the pink-haired girl, was the fifth and final guard. The guard could only assume that his four allies were dead. What a bunch of useless weaklings.
Well, he wouldn't fail like they did. He was a master of Koukenji martial arts. Sure, it was ten years ago. Sure, he got kicked out. And sure, it was his own fault. But none of that mattered. These punks thought they could just kill Honest's relative and walk off scot free. Well, he'd show them. He would prove that he had no equal in the Empire, here and now.
He saw that there were two of them. A rather tall young man, and a short pink-haired girl.
'Heh. That bratty girl is kinda cute. I think I'll kill her boyfriend first. Then, before I hand her over to Honest… I'll have some fun with her. It's not as if that man will be able to stop-'
The Koukenji master never managed to finish that thought. Though, to be fair, Tatsumi DID just behead him. The man didn't even have time to register Tatsumi's attack.
Tatsumi knew what that beast was thinking about, and he would never let that bastard near one of his girls…
…
Wait… ONE OF HIS GIRLS? Where in Messiah's name did that come from? They weren't even dating!
"Yet." Messiah decided to add. Tatsumi could tell that his Teigu was smirking right now.
"Huh… I didn't even see that guy. Not bad for a rookie, I suppose." Mine said with a smirk.
"I'd never let anything happen to any of you, Mine. You know that." Tatsumi spoke softly.
Mine… smiled. It was nice to have a reliable guy like Tatsumi around… but she wasn't about to tell him that. Instead, she looked at the tree in front of them. "It's beautiful, isn't it?"
Tatsumi nodded in agreement.
As the rest of Night Raid approached, Tatsumi pondered the tree. It was beautiful and precious. In fact, it reminded him of those he wished to protect. Akame, Leone, Mine, Sheele, Najenda, Aria, Sayo, Air, Fal and Luna… Of course, the tree's colour mainly reminded him of Mine. But he also considered the tree's purity, how wonderful and precious it was, its sublime nature, its potential for growth. How it stood as a light in the darkness. All of that reminded him of the most precious people in his life… the ones that kept him going. It amplified his resolve to fight. Not just for a better world… but for them…
…
…
"Tatsumi, just so you know… You actually just said all of that out loud." Said Messiah.
'Wha-what?' Tatsumi thought internally. No… they… did they all really just hear him say all of that? Out loud?
The answer was yes…. Yes, they did.
Mine, for the sixth or seventh time so far (she had lost count at this point), felt her face turn deep red. Akame, meanwhile, felt her rate increase dramatically. Leone's cheshire grin tugged at her lips. Sheele's smile was serene and soothing, her own blush being quite visible.
Akame and Sheele calmly approached Tatsumi, whereas Leone ran at him and pounced on him in a hug, Tatsumi's face buried into her chest.
"Aww! You really do love us, don't you, Tatsumi?~~" Leone sang.
"Tatsumi… I never knew we were all so precious to you." Akame said.
"Tatsumi… You make me feel strange… in a good way." Sheele spoke softly.
Lubbock and Bulat had just arrived. They weren't quite aware as to what Tatsumi had just said or done… but the girls were clearly smitten, even if they didn't know it yet.
Bulat smiled like a proud big brother. Tatsumi never ceased to amaze him. Lubbock's brain lurched, trying to process what was happening. Mainly that Tatsumi's face was currently being smothered by the two things that Lubbock dreamt of every single night. What the actual fuck was going on?
"Messiah… Any advice for what to do here? Messiah? Please respond." Tatsumi begged of his Teigu.
Messiah simply said the following. "Be prepared to hear about this for the rest of eternity, young Tatsumi."
(Elsewhere, in the Imperial Capital)
"Hey, Brian. Do you suppose we are EVER going to find this guy?" Jack asked his fellow officer. Jack and Brian had just finished putting up another wanted poster for the "Angelic Demon."
"Honestly, I would say it's more so a matter of him finding us." Brian replied.
"If he gets to you first, could you make some noise before you die? That way I can run?" Jack requested.
"No. I'll say 'Jack's the one you want'" Brian replied.
Suddenly, they felt a chill in the air. Then, a third voice.
"What do we have here?" The third person asked.
Jack and Brian turned to the direction of the voice. There stood a tall man wielding a sword… and a Teigu that appeared to be a third eye on his forehead.
Phew… for a minute there, Jack and Brian thought it was the Ghost… But It's just Zanku The Executioner….
…
…
'OH, FUCK. IT'S ZANKU THE EXECUTIONER.' Jack and Brian thought… and it was their last thought.
In the blink of an eye, Zanku had just beheaded them. He then walked toward the wanted poster they had stuck to the wall.
He saw the "Ghost" illustration… and smiled. Not only did the Capital have waves of people he could kill… but there was also someone just like him. He looked forward to taking his head off, too.
"Splendid. Splendid. I'm so happy." Zanku spoke, his wide, psychotic smirk never leaving his face.
That night, under a blood red moon, Zanku happened upon two fools who chose to walk about after dark. So he killed them. As always, it was quite the cathartic experience.
"Splendid… Splendid. I could never quit this!" Zanku declared to the skies above.
(The next day, Night Raid's base)
Tatsumi's day started with training alongside his Big Bro. The training yard could only be described by Leone as "Testosterone Town". Tatsumi and Bulat were both shirtless during their sparring. The shockwave and impact of each sword clash could be felt for miles. Afterwards, Tatsumi helped Akame with breakfast… which was croquette bowls. Tatsumi then witnessed Akame scoff down two whole bowls in just under a few seconds. Then, she told Tatsumi that they would be making tuna bowls for lunch.
Trying to comprehend Akaem's metabolism was a mystery to Tatsumi, but (because of his memories of the original timeline) he knew that it wouldn't be the greatest challenge he would face today. His thoughts drifted to what would be his mission for today… and his target.
Even with Messiah's power at his command, Zanku the Executioner was not to be underestimated. Especially considering his Teigu, Almighty Five Sights: Spectator.
Spectator granted the user the ability to read minds, see through mist and objects and see across long-distances. It could also allow the user to study muscle movement. The most dangerous ability of Spectator was its Trump Card: Illusion Sight. It allowed the user to project an illusion at the enemy… an illusion of the person they cared for the most.
Tatsumi knew that he would need to use speed, precision and agility if he was going to defeat Zanku… and an indomitable will,
Meanwhile, Najenda had met up with a spy for the rebel army in a secret location…but he was the only one to arrive… and he was dying.
"This is the list of those who will offer their support for when the revolt starts." The spy managed to say whilst coughing up blood.
"Well done. I'll take good care of this." Najenda spoke solemnly.
"Please… make sure that the Revolution… succeeds…" The man said as he took his final breath.
"Understood. Leave it to me." Najenda said as she left the area, returning to Night Raid's base.
That night, Najenda briefed the team on their next mission. "This time, our target is Zanku the Executioner, a serial killer with a penchant for beheading his victims. He likes to strike at night. We don't know how many he's killed, but at least a third of them were Imperial guards."
"Apologies… but who is that again?" Sheele asked softly, clearly having forgotten.
Mine reminded Sheele. "Zanku the Executioner was the headsman for the largest prison in the Empire. Because of Honest, the number of death row prisoners increased dramatically. Day after day, he continued to cut off the heads of victims who begged for mercy. They got none. And I guess after a while, beheading people became a habit for him. Years of doing it likely drove him to madness. Now he does it indiscriminately."
Bulat continued for Mine. "A punitive squad was formed and he vanished… Now it looks like he's resurfaced in the Capital."
"Then we don't have time to waste. I'll leave immediately for the Capital. I'll make sure he won't hurt anyone else again." Tatsumi decided.
"Hold on, Tatsumi. Zanku isn't like your previous targets. Like you, he wields a Teigu that he stole from a prison warden. Even for you, he may prove too much. It's probably for the best that we send someone with you." Bulat warned his Little Bro.
Immediately, Akame spoke up. "I'll go with Tatsumi. I'll keep him safe."
Tatsumi interjected. He knew where Zanku would likely be. Surely, he could handle this himself. He knew he could. "I don't want you to be put in danger, Akame. One mistake will be all it takes to seal one's fate. This is my responsibility. I won't put others at risk."
Akame smiled softly. "Tatsumi… you don't have to worry. I've been doing this for a long time… and I've fought worse than Zanku. I won't die on you."
Najenda joined in with a smile of her own. "Also, we can't expect you to do all the work for us, Tatsumi. You'll be putting Night Raid out of business at this rate. We're a team. In times like this, we have to stand and fight together. No-one should have to carry the burden that we do alone."
Tatsumi relented and addressed Night Raid. "Alright. Akame, Leone, Mine, Sheele, Big Bro, Lubbock… if you think you're in serious danger… Please retreat. I couldn't live with myself if anything happened to any of you."
They all nodded. Leone in particular was determined. Tatsumi had marked her when they first met. He had to take responsibility for it. That's why she wouldn't go dying on him.
Najenda continued, speaking directly to Tatsumi. "I have faith in you, Tatsumi. Everyone here is skilled, but you've become something of a legend from your exploits. I know you can do this. Team Tatsumi and I will be waiting for you when you get back."
Tatsumi nodded. In memory of his parents, he'd make sure they would all return alive.
Najenda finished her briefing. "That's it then. Go and hunt down the prey that the heavens cannot judge."
(That night, Capital streets)
Tatsumi and Akame patrolled a section of the streets. Lubbock, Leone and Bulat covered another area. Mine and Sheele covered the rooftops. At one point, Tatsumi had to quickly duck for cover as a squadron of Imperial soldiers passed through the street. He earned a blush from Akame in the process, as he had swept her off her feet as he did so. Afterwards, they stopped by a cafeteria, waiting in plain sight for their target to appear.
High above on the roof of a building… there was Zanku. His Spectator eye scanned the streets for his next victim. His eye was drawn towards Tatsumi, so Zanku chose him.
"Splendid. That one exudes such a divine aura! I shall take his head, so that Heaven will sing for me!" Zanku decided.
Messiah warned Tatsumi of the danger approaching. "Zanku has spotted you. Lure him into an alleyway, just like we planned."
Tatsumi nodded. He got up and turned to Akame. "I need to… relieve my bladder, so to speak. I'll be right back."
Akame nodded as he left. She made a note to follow him if he was longer than five minutes.
Tatsumi reached the alleyway and waited in silence. He made himself look as oblivious as possible. Zanku took the bait.
Suddenly, Tatsumi was greeted by a group of people. Akame, Leone, Mine, Najenda, Sheele, Aria, Sayo and the Sister Squad. They all stood at the end of the alley, facing him. Half of them weren't actually supposed to be here, so he knew immediately that this was a trick. He vanished into the shadows.
Zanku… was curious. He utilised Illusion Sight and Tatsumi clearly saw it… so why did he just disappear? Zanku followed the direction that Tatsumi went… but he couldn't find him… Where did he go?
Meanwhile, a woman by the name of Hibiki, who had brown hair, was out on the streets of the Capital. The night before, she was meant to join two of her friends for a nightly stroll…. But she decided at the last minute to join them another time. That decision, in hindsight, saved her life. In the original timelines, she would have been killed alongside them by Zanku. But she was unaware of any of this. As far as she knew, they had apparently gone missing. She supposed they wound up in a brothel, likely in a drunken sleep. Not realizing that they had died the previous night, she went looking for them.
That was when she found two individuals walking into an alley. Thinking that it was her friends, she followed them.
She called out to the man in front of her. "Laslow? Lawrence? Is that you? God, do you have any idea how worried I-"
In the blink of an eye, Zanku had turned around and lifted Hibiki into the air by the neck.
A psychotic grin was plastered on Zanku's face. "What's this? A young woman out by herself after dark? Didn't your parents tell you that the monsters come out at this time? Hehehe…"
At that moment, Hibiki had realized what had happened to her friends. This man had killed them… and now he was going to kill her.
"Oh, God… Please, don't kill me!" Hibiki pleaded with tears in her eyes.
"Oh, but I must… Like I said before, you really shouldn't have been out here, so It's your fault." Zanku said, barely able to control his excitement.
"If you let me live, I'll do anything you want!" Hibiki pleaded, her feet dangling in the air as Zanku held her by the neck.
"Really? Well, I like to talk a lot. Will you talk with me?" Zanku asked.
"Yes! I will! I really will!" Hibiki desperately sobbed, pleading in her thoughts for someone to save her from this maniac.
"Then-"
Zanku never got the chance to ask his question or kill the woman like he intended. In the blink of an eye, Hibiki was gone. Some force or presence that moved too quickly for Zanku to register… had taken Hibiki from his grip.
Zanku nearly stuttered. "Wha-"
SLASH!
Zanku's head was separated from his shoulders. Tatsumi, after rescuing Hibiki, had appeared behind him and sliced through his neck. Zanku the Beheader… had just been beheaded.
At that moment… Zanku finally had clarity… For so long, his victims' screams and cries had haunted him… the voices had driven him to madness…
Now… they stopped. They finally stopped. He felt at peace… and he knew that man… no, that Angel had finally laid him to rest.
'Whoever you are… Thank you…' Those were Zanku's last thoughts.
As Zanku's headless corpse slumped onto the ground, Tatsumi felt relief. Zanku had suffered from madness for so long… and now it was over. And though nothing could bring back his victims, the threat was gone.
Tatsumi carefully removed Spectator from Zanku's head… and shut Zanku's eyes. He then carefully approached Hibiki. She was still clearly frightened, so Tatsumi had to calm her.
"It's alright. I won't hurt you. You're safe now. I promise." Tatsumi whispered softly as he removed his hood, revealing his face to Hibiki.
Hibiki immediately hugged him, gasping in relief and sobbing into his shirt. "Thank you…. Thank you…."
She had no idea who Tatsumi was, but he had just appeared from nowhere and saved her life. And his presence… his aura… they were so comforting. She felt at peace and safe. It was as if the rest of the world had faded away and she could only focus on his warm, reassuring smile.
"No need to thank me. My group and I are going to take you back to our base now, okay? You'll be safe with us.
Hibiki nodded and didn't protest when Tatsumi lifted her into his arms. Tatsumi, carrying Hibiki, left the alley to rejoin Akame. On the way back, Tatsumi allowed Messiah to inspect Spectator with his power…
…
…
"It is done. No doubt this power will serve us well in the future." Said Messiah.
When Tatsumi trained with Messiah in the village, he was shocked to learn that Messiah could learn to replicate other Teigu. Messiah simply needed Tatsumi to take hold of the Teigu, and allow Messiah to examine it. Once that was done, Tatsumi could use that Teigu's power without needing the actual Teigu itself.
Of course, there were a few caveats. First, the replication wasn't perfect. Tatsumi would have to don his Messiah armour to utilize any of the learned abilities. Additionally, just because Tatsumi had access to a Teigu's power (for example, Spectator, in this case) doesn't mean he immediately knew how to use it. He would need to do extensive training to fully master the Teigu's power. It could take a long time to adjust to and learn, and would require deep concentration and effort on Tatsumi's part. Lastly, he could only use one learned Teigu's power at a time. If he ever learned Perfector, for example, he would need to switch Spectator out for it.
As Tatsumi returned with Hibiki, Akame was relieved to see him safe, and was surprised to see him carrying a new Teigu. She presumed it was Zanku's… which could only mean…
"He's dead. Zanku won't be hurting anyone else." Tatsumi stated, confirming Akame's theory.
"I see. Who's the girl?" Akame asked., referring to the girl in Tatsumi's arms.
"This is Hibiki. I saved her from Zanku. She'll be coming with us."
Tatsumi and Akame went to rendezvous with the rest of Night Raid. Before returning to HQ, they quickly and secretly stopped by Hibiki's residence, which thankfully wasn't far. They gathered all of her personal belongings (such as a bracelet that was left to Hibiki by her late mother). Then, they all returned to base.
(Night Raid's base)
"I have to say, I'm impressed, Tatsumi. This was your first job against a Teigu user and he was no match for you. Well done. The world's future is brighter for your actions." Najenda praised Tatsumi.
"No need for praise, Boss. I couldn't have done it without Akame and everyone else's help." Tatsumi said.
"Huh? But I didn't do anything." Akame corrected.
"Well…You and the others still provided valuable emotional support. Your presence alone gives me courage." Tatsumi said earnestly.
Akame had to fight back a blush and smiled softly.
"So… what are we going to do with Spectator?"
"We usually send any retrieved Teigu to Revolutionary Army HQ, but your "Team Tatsumi" lack a Teigu right now. Maybe one of them could make use of it?" Najenda suggested.
"That's a good idea, Boss. I'll consider who would benefit from it the most." Tatsumi agreed. With a small blush, he remembered the glorious sight that he bore witness to in the original timeline: Mine, Akame and Sheele in their underwear…
Messiah cleared his throat again.
"Ah! Of course. What am I thinking? Bad Tatsumi! Down, boy!" Tatsumi thought, trying to control his hormones.
Najenda's thoughts drifted to the North, where a particularly powerful Teigu user that she knew all too well was subjugating the Northern Tribes.
Numa Seika, the Heroic Prince of the North, was a man who never lost a battle. His strategic mind and fighting spirit were unparalleled. His army had used their most fortified city as a base to stage an invasion of the Capital… So the Empire had sent Esdeath, arguably the strongest being in all of the Empire… maybe the world…
No… there was no use panicking. Numa Seika would not fall to Esdeath's army so easily. And besides, even if Esdeath was successful, conquering the North would surely take over a year… And yet Najenda had a very bad feeling. She could feel that a storm was approaching…
Hibiki raised her hand, wanting to ask a question. "Uh… excuse me, but I want to know.. What's going to happen to me now?"
Tatsumi decided to speak up. "You can stay with us tonight. I'll escort you to the nearest Rebel outpost in the morning. You'll be safe there. I promise you."
Hibiki smiled with a blush. "Alright…. Thank you again for saving my life, Tatsumi. You…. You're my hero."
Tatsumi chuckled with his own blush. The girls didn't mind, though they felt a tad bit jealous. Tatsumi decided it was now time to reveal his surprise for Night Raid.
"Anyway, could you all meet me in the Main Hall? I wanted to give you all something." Tatsumi requested. The others were puzzled, but they nodded.
All of Night Raid, including Team Tatsumi, assembled in the Main Hall. Tatsumi arrived… and brought with him bags of gifts and shopping. "Remember when Mine was training with me for the first time? Well I decided to get you all something while I was out there."
Different types of perfume for Aria, scarfs for Sayo, sweets and bedtime stories for the Sister Squad, Books on strategy and puns for Najenda, a new set of glasses and a calendar for Sheele, booze and a lioness stuffy for Leone, a red pendant and cookbook for Akame, a modest outfit and fashion catalogue for Mine, a guide to advanced traps and tricks for Lubbock, and a hair comb, a muscle training tips book, and a hairstyle guide for Bulat.
"Before I first arrived at the Capital, I took on a few Danger Beasts and got quite a few rewards for it… I thought that I could spend some of the gold on you all… Mine told me what you all may like… so, I went by that. " Tatsumi explained.
Night Raid had no idea what they had done to deserve someone like Tatsumi, but they were thankful for him, anyway. He was everyone's favourite that day… And even Lubbock couldn't help but think that Tatsumi wasn't all that bad…
(The North, Numa Seika's fortress)
"Army of the North! You were born in ice and forged in blood! No matter what the Empire sends our way… We will stand and fight! We will prevail!" Numa Seika delivered a speech to his soldiers.
The soldiers bellowed a war cry and stood resolute. They were blissfully unaware that their courage was all for naught.
Esdeath's army attacked the fortress and burst through the gates. Numa's men fought their hardest, but it was futile. Thousands of men were slaughtered in mere seconds.
One of Esdeath's men was a tall, brutish man. He had dark yellow hair, and his eyes had no pupils. He raved about how many kills and experience points he had gotten. He carved through Numa's forces with his Teigu, Belvaac. "I'm gonna get so much stronger after this fight. Haha!" Daidara bellowed. He was a member of Esdeath's elite bodyguards, The Three Beasts.
Another of Esdeath's men dominated the battlefield with his power over water, granted to him by his Teigu, Black Marlin. He moved with grace and skill. "It is a shame that this bloodshed had to take place. But unfortunately for you all… our Master's orders are, above all, absolute." General Liver spoke softly. He was the leader of the Three Beasts.
The last of the Three Beasts was a short woman with blonde hair and golden eyes. She had a petite build, but noticeable curves. Unlike her fellow Beasts who wore trousers, she wore white shorts (in spite of the cold). She had sharp teeth and horn-like accessories in her hair, which complimented her demon-like tail. She skipped across the battlefield with her flute Teigu, Scream, in hand. It could affect the emotions of others (strengthening her allies and weakening her enemies), and it could also grant her a muscular body (though she rarely used it).
This little fiend was named Nyan, the most attractive (in her own words) of the Three Beasts.
As she walked, she noticed that one of Numa's soldiers was still alive… He actually had a cute face… she decided that it would be a fine addition to her collection.
She sauntered over to the wounded soldier. She knelt down in front of him.
"Hey there, pretty boy. Aww… did big bad Daidara hurt you? Don't worry, I'll take good care of you." Nyan chirped.
Nyan caressed the man's cheek as he felt sweat run down his face. He had a pretty good idea as to what was about to happen.
"Hmm… You have such a nice face… Growing up, I was taught that a face was a window to the soul… it hides so many secrets, you know… I wonder what yours are? Shall we find out together~?" Nyan sang as she pulled out her knife.
The man tried to struggle… In doing so, he struck Nyan across the face.
Nyan recovered from the punch and glared at him… her face darkened as she hissed in pain.
"Now, that was very rude, wasn't it? You're such a meanie and a very bad boy… I was actually going to kill you first before the main event… but just for that, I'll get to work….. Right. Now." Nyan spoke softly. She raised her knife and it cut through the man's face.
The man's blood-curdling screams could be heard for miles. All the while, Nyan simply sang and hummed as she crafted her next work of art…
"La, dee dah, la, de dah~" Nyan sang while her victim screamed in pain, a blush and a sickeningly sweet smile across her face.
After 10 minutes of skinning, Nyan was done. The man only lasted five minutes before dying of shock and blood loss. "There we go~ Finished! I'd say I did quite well there, wouldn't you say?" Nyan asked.
No response.
"I'm glad you agree~ You're such a sweetheart! Anyway, it's time that I got going. Bye-Bye!" Nyan blew a kiss as she skipped away, leaving the faceless corpse behind her.
Meanwhile, Esdeath slaughtered her way through Numa's guards before finally confronting the Northern Prince himself.
"Monsters! You'll pay for what you've done here!" Numa shouted as he lunged at Esdeath…
(Sometime later)
Numa Seika fought valiantly… but it was in vain. He fell to Esdeath's might, like so many before him. His army was in ruins, his soldiers either frozen in ice or reduced to severed heads on sticks… 400,000 of his forces were buried alive.
And now he was nothing more than a naked, helpless wretch, licking the boot of his conqueror, and panting like a dog in heat. Esdeath held him up by a chain as she watched him. She was bored. She expected a challenge, but the North's Hero proved to be a waste of time. It made her wonder why he bothered fighting at all. Such heroic nonsense, she thought.
"The northerners were defeated in an instant… as expected of you, General Esdeath." One soldier said.
"To think that this was the Hero of the North. Pathetic. Die." She said coldly. She swung her boot across Numa Seika's face… and he was no more.
Esdeath stood up. "Is there truly no enemy in this world who can satisfy me?" She said with a cruel smirk.
(Esdeath's Tent)
"Well done, my Three Beasts. You performed well today." Esdeath praised her bodyguards.
"Thank you, Master Esdeath. We live to serve." Liver spoke softly whilst bowing.
"I managed to kill a lot of them. I think the amount of experience points I got were enough for me to level up over ten times! Awesome!" Daidara declared, feeling quite proud of himself.
"I even managed to get another trophy for my collection! Do you guys wanna see?" Nyan asked sweetly.
"No thanks! The thought of your sick hobby makes me wanna vomit! It's worse than Liver's cooking!" Daidara responded quickly.
"Come now, Daidara. I even went to the trouble of seasoning the meals with an Evil Bird. Next time, I shall prepare for you all my latest and greatest stew." Liver announced.
"Geh. Liver! You're gonna make me lose my lunch! Remember how you incapacitated Master Esdeath for a few minutes. That stuff should be used for torture, you know!" Nyan spoke.
"You're one to talk, Nyan! That poor kid spent his last moments screaming his lungs out! It's probably gonna cause nightmares for weeks!" Daidara said.
"Hehe! That reminds me! I gotta show you all my latest piece of art!" Nyan declared as she reached into her pocket.
She presented her "work" to Esdeath and her fellow Beasts.
"Ta-da!"
It was a face… A human face.
Liver looked away as his face went pale while Daidara tried to resist the urge to vomit. Esdeath, meanwhile, wasn't bothered at all. "Not bad, Nyan. "
Nyan blushed. "Thank you, Master Esdeath. He didn't make it easy with all the screaming and struggling, but I'd say it came out pretty well. Hehe! He did die from shock while I was skinning him, but he lasted longer than most do~ One might say he was trying to… save face… Hehe!"
'You need serious help." Liver and Daidara thought simultaneously..
Esdeath stood up. "Now that we are victorious, we can return to the Capital. I'm certain the Minister will be pleased with our efforts. Make ready to leave tomorrow at first light."
"Yes, Master Esdeath." Nyan, Liver and Daidara said in unison.
"Perhaps I'll find a man for myself when we return. I look forward to dominating him." Thought Esdeath.
"I bet I'll get even more experience points soon enough. I'm going to reach the highest level!" Thought Daidara.
"I wonder…. Will I ever cross paths with Bulat again? If so… which one of us will live, and who will die? Liver pondered to himself.
"Hopefully, I'll be able to add more faces to my collection… and maybe I might find my Mr. Right. With Esdeath's permission, of course." Nyan thought to herself.
(Present Day, Tatsumi's Homestead)
It had been a few years now since Tatsumi's family found their new home. Tatsumi sat in the garden with Ryu and Iris, his children with Akame, as they observed the night sky and the stars above. There was a special reason Tatsumi had brought them here tonight. It was the 31st anniversary of his parents' deaths.
What made the occasion easier to bear was not just being surrounded by his family, but also the recent additions of Maya (the assassin he recruited) and Hibiki (the woman he had saved from Zanku so long ago). They had decided to seek out Tatsumi and their family. They didn't really have anywhere else they felt they belonged. Tatsumi welcomed them with open arms.
"Wow! The stars are so pretty, Papa! I just wanna reach up and grab them! Hehe!" Iris chirped.
"Heh. I imagine that you would need quite a few of us to help you reach them, Iris. Though you can rest easy that your smile shines as bright as any star." Ryu added with a smile.
"Aww… You're the best, Big Bro Ryu!" Iris sang as she hugged her brother.
Tatsumi smiled. His parents would have loved to have seen this. But of course, they were seeing it. They were watching from the stars above, after all.
"Since we're out here, do you mind if I told you two a story? It's a story about your grandparents." Tatsumi softly asked.
Ryu politely bowed. "Of course. Father. We would love to hear about our grandparents."
Tatsumi began. "This is a story about Ryu and Iris. One a stoic, serious protector, and the other a kind-hearted soul…"
And that was Chapter 5 of Tatsumi Ga Kill. Goodness, that was a long one! Hope you all enjoyed it.
Please feel free to leave a review or PM. I would like very much to hear your thoughts and ideas on the story.
Until next time, everyone. Take care and stay safe out there!
