Neo Soul King Yhwach

Tatsumi: (observant) We're about to step into the heart of the beast. Any advice, Yhwach?

Yhwach: (serene) In a city of ambitions and deceit, trust sparingly. Everyone has an agenda, and alliances can be fleeting. Keep your objectives clear, and let the currents of power guide your actions.

Their journey through the city streets led them to a central plaza, where the pulse of the capital's ambition seemed to beat strongest. Tatsumi, a mix of excitement and caution in his eyes, surveyed the scene.

Tatsumi: (enthused) This is where it begins. The capital won't know what hit it.

Yhwach: (stoic) Remember, Tatsumi, the capital is a crucible that forges both legends and failures. Choose your path wisely.

Small Timeskip

Tatsumi Pov:

Tatsumi found himself standing before a receptionist, tasked with enlisting in the city's forces.

Receptionist: So y'all would like to enlist, would ya? Alright just fill out these forms and bring them back to me, ok?

The receptionist said.

Tatsumi's eyes widened as he read the form, realizing they would be starting as Privates.

Tatsumi: Wait, wait, wait, wait... It says we'll be starting as Privates.

He exclaimed in shock, prompting a nonchalant response from the receptionist.

Receptionist: What, do y'all think you're special?

Tatsumi, fueled by a burst of frustration, unsheathed his sword.

Tatsumi: WE'RE NOT STARTING FROM THE BOTTOM!

I yelled while unsheathing my sword.

Tatsumi: I don't know about Yhwach, BUT I'M TOO GOOD FOR THAT!

He yelled, catching the attention of those nearby. Yhwach, ever composed, placed a calming hand on Tatsumi's shoulder.

Yhwach: (calmly) Tatsumi, the titles we bear are but labels. In the grand scheme, it matters little where we start, but how we rise above.

Tatsumi, still grumbling, sheathed his sword, meeting Yhwach's gaze.

Tatsumi: (grumbling) Fine, but I won't forget this.

He added with a smirk.

Tatsumi: I was thinking more along the lines of a, say Captain.

Receptionist: ...GET THE HELL OUTA HERE, BOTH OF Y'ALL!!!!

Unlike Yhwach walking outside, I got thrown out of the building.

I sighed as I sat on the ground. Clearly now out of options to join the Guard. Ideas of possible ways to get in entered my mind. 

Tatsumi: ....Maybe I could stage a kidnapping... and save the day just in time... Nah, I think that's way too obvious.

I said sadly.

As Tatsumi sat on the ground, contemplating his next move, Yhwach joined him, his expression unchanged.

Yhwach: (calmly) Unconventional methods may not be the wisest course of action, Tatsumi. There are other paths we can explore.

Tatsumi, looking determined yet somewhat disheartened, glanced at Yhwach.

Tatsumi: (thoughtful) I just wanted a quicker way to make a difference, you know? But it seems like they don't appreciate our skills.

Yhwach: (wise) The system may not always recognize potential immediately. We must find alternative avenues to showcase our strengths.

Somehow, those words gave me reassurance. I felt a little better knowing that someone was here to help me, rather than drag me down.

Women: Helloooooooo!

 She was now walking towards Tatsumi. until she bent over now facing him.

Women: What's with the face lil' guy? It'll be alright, Big Sis is gonna cheer you up.

Tatsumi: aaaaaaaaaahh

Tatsumi: ( in thought ) I think I love this place!.

Women: Try to focus here buddy. 

She said, trying to get his attention.

Tatsumi: aaahhhh.

Women: Lemme guess, y'all came in from the countryside in search of fame and fortune didn't ya? 

She said with glee.

Tatsumi, still recovering from the unexpected encounter, managed to nod in response to the woman's question.

Women: (laughing) Well, ain't that the classic tale? Don't worry, sweetie, Big Sis Leone's got your back!

Leone, as she introduced herself, extended a hand to Tatsumi, who hesitantly shook it.

Tatsumi: (mumbling) Thanks, I guess.

Leone: No need to be shy, hun. Now, why the gloomy faces? Trouble with the recruitment office?

Yhwach, who had been silently observing, spoke with a measured tone.

Yhwach: Bureaucracy has a way of dampening one's spirits. But we adapt and explore other avenues.

Leone: (smirking) Adapt, huh? I like the sound of that. So, what's the plan, boys?

Tatsumi, feeling a spark of optimism, looked at Yhwach, awaiting his guidance.

Yhwach: (thoughtful) Leone, do you have insights into alternative opportunities within the city?

Leone: (leaning back) Well, Big Sis has her ways of finding jobs. There's always a demand for capable folks in various... ventures.

Tatsumi, intrigued yet cautious, asked for clarification.

Tatsumi: Ventures? What kind of ventures are we talking about?

Leone: (winking) Let's just say, opportunities that pay well and require a bit of... finesse. You catch my drift?

Yhwach, analyzing the situation, nodded in understanding.

Yhwach: We're open to exploring such opportunities, Leone. Lead the way.

Leone: ( Grinning ) Well... First y'all gotta treat me to lunch.

She said with a smirk.

Not long later, we arrived at a local bar to "discuss" our way to the Imperial Guard.

Leone was having a lot of fun. Drinking away her worries as if she had no responsibility to bear whatsoever. 

Leone: Hahahaha! Man! Never too early in the day to get some hooch, am I right?

Leone: Go ahead drink up there's a little bit more left.

Tatsumi: Look just forget the drinks and tell us how we can become officers!

Tatsumi demanded as he slammed his hand on the table, getting her full attention.

Leone: Yeah... well about that, uh...

She spoke while pouring another drink

Leone: Your gonna need a lot of money.

Tatsumi: Money?

Leone: Ya see, I just happen to know someone in the army. He could hook you up if y'all make it worth his while. 

She said while swirling her drink around in her hand.

Yhwach observed the exchange with a calm demeanor, and as Leone mentioned the need for money, he turned to Tatsumi.

Yhwach: Tatsumi, I must confess that I don't possess the currency required for such arrangements.

Tatsumi, determined not to let this setback hinder their progress, smirked and reached into his pocket.

Tatsumi: No worries, Yhwach I'll pay for the both of us

He says as he takes out a big bag. The rattle of money makes me assume the currency here is silver. Possibly gold as well.

Leone: Woah What do we have here? 

She says as she looks at the bag of cash.

Tatsumi: It's just some award money from killing a class 1, Danger Beast. No biggy.

He gloated.

Leone: Hmmm... big kill, you might just go straight up to Captain!

She said.

Tatsumi: Hehehe, yeah, let's hope so. 

He said with a gleeful smile.

Leone: I believe our little encounter's been more educational in more ways than you know, kid.

She said as she took the bag of money.

She stood up off her stool and stretched her arms out, yawning as she did so.

Leone: Right, I'mma go talk to him. Y'all wait here ok? 

She said looking at the both of us.

Tatsumi: See yaaaa! 

He said as he waved goodbye to her.

Yhwach, watching Leone leave, turned to Tatsumi with a calm expression.

Yhwach: Tatsumi, while your optimism is commendable, there's a thin line between investment and being taken advantage of.

Tatsumi, still basking in the excitement of the moment, looked at Yhwach with confusion.

Tatsumi: What do you mean? We're getting a shot at the Imperial Guard, right?

Yhwach: (sighs) It appears you've been a bit too generous with your earnings. That bag of money you handed over, it was more than just an investment.

Tatsumi, now more attentive, furrowed his brows.

Tatsumi: What are you talking about?

Yhwach: Tatsumi, you've just been ripped off. That bag of cash was probably worth far less than what you had in mind for our ambitions.

Tatsumi's eyes widened in realization, a mix of shock and frustration crossing his face.

Tatsumi: (angered) Ripped off? But she said it was just for the guy in the army!

Yhwach: (calmly) And that's where the deceit lies. It's a common ploy in these parts. They play on the dreams of newcomers, promising connections and shortcuts to success. In reality, it's often just a quick way to empty your pockets.

Tatsumi, clenching his fists, felt a surge of anger and disappointment.

Tatsumi: (frustrated) So, what do we do now?

Yhwach: We learn from this experience. In the capital, trust is a precious commodity. We need to be more discerning in our choices and ensure that our ambitions are not exploited.

____________________________________

In the middle of the streets, we see Tatsumi and Yhwach walking down the streets in the middle of the night. Broke. Tired. And Frustrated. They decided to call it a day and go to sleep, but not before a little girl decided to 'help' them and give them a place to stay.

Little Girl: Stop right here. 

Said the little girl

Sodlier: Are we really doing this again, Milady? 

He asked.

Little Girl: You know I can't help it, It's just the way I am. 

She said while getting out of the wagon.

Little Girl: Excuse me, if you two need to a place to rest your heads tonight, your welcome to come with me.

Tatsumi was already skeptical about this girl, but he had to be sure, Tatsumi looked over to Yhwach. to which Yhwach responded to shaking his head left to right. He understood Yhwach's answer.

Tatsumi: Um... Thanks but we're broke.

She giggled

Little Girl: Well if y'all weren't you both wouldn't be here now would y'all?

Tatsumi, still wary but with a hint of curiosity, exchanged glances with Yhwach before responding.

Tatsumi: What's the catch, then? Why would you help two strangers like us?

Soldier 2: Lady Aria has a bit of a weakness for helping others with nowhere to go.

Soldier: You should really accept her offer.

Aria: Pretty Please.

Tatsumi was about to stand up but Yhwach intervened, his voice cold and resonant.

Yhwach: And why would we do that?

He stated firmly, his piercing gaze fixed on Aria, demanding an explanation.

Soldier: Well, yall wouldn't want to be killed by Night Raid would you.

Yhwach: We'll take our chances out here

His glare made the soldiers step back.

Tatsumi: Oh c'mon Yhwach, just give them a chance. I mean, what's the worst that could happen. Were already broke. 

He stated.

Aria, seemingly unbothered by Yhwach's intimidating demeanor, flashed a sweet smile.

Aria: I promise, no harm will come to you.

Tatsumi, swayed by Aria's assurance, looked at Yhwach with a pleading expression.

Tatsumi: Yhwach, maybe it's worth considering. We're in a tough spot, and she seems genuine.

Yhwach, after a moment of contemplation, sighed.

Yhwach: Very well. Lead the way.

But before Tatsumi went into the wagon, Yhwach whispered into his ear.

Yhwach: Stay vigilant, Tatsumi. Trust can be a double-edged sword. We'll proceed with caution.

I was now inside the living room with Aria's father, mother, and Aria. There were a couple of guards too. Yhwach went into his guest bedroom to get some early rest, saying he's got to get his "strength back up." I don't know what he meant by that, but he does need rest.

Aria: Tatsumi, did you come up here all by yourself? Well... before you meet Yhwach I mean. 

She asked me with curiosity.

Tatsumi: No, I wasn't alone... there were three of us. 

I said as I recalled the memories of what happened before we left our village.

Tatsumi: At first it seemed like things were going pretty smoothly, but then we got attacked by bandits and well, we lost each other. Both of them are decent fighters so I'm not too concerned. It's just that Ieyasu still can't navigate his way out of a paper bag.

Tatsumi: We planned to meet each other at the capital but I don't think he's gonna make it.

Aria's Father: Then it's settled, I think I have a friend in the military who can help you. I'll give him your name and ask him to look for your two friends.

Tatsumi: That'd be great! Again thank you so much.

I said bowing my head in respect.

Aria: I have an extremely keen intuition, so I just know you'll see your friends again very soon.

She said with a smile.

Tatsumi: That'd be great.

____________________________________

Yhwach, in the dimly lit guest bedroom, continued his attempts to gather reishi, his brow furrowed in concentration. However, the spiritual energy eluded him, creating a sense of frustration. After several unsuccessful tries, he decided to focus inward, delving into the recesses of his own being.

As Yhwach closed his eyes, he found himself standing once again in the Dark Void, Zaegar's Prison. The colossal figure of Zaegar loomed in the darkness, the ethereal chains rattling as he turned his attention to Yhwach.

Yhwach: Zaegar, explain. Why can't I gather reishi properly? What have you done to my body?

Zaegar, his hollow eyes gleaming, chuckled with an air of ancient wisdom.

Zaegar: Quincy King, your body is a vessel, a convergence of the pure Quincy and the primordial hollow. I have allowed the infusion of my ancient hollow energy, healing and reshaping your essence.

Yhwach, maintaining his composure, pressed for clarity.

Yhwach: Healing? Reshaping? Explain the consequences. Why do my powers waver, and why can't I gather reishi consistently?

Zaegar, the chains clinking with every subtle movement, spoke with a resonant voice.

Zaegar: Quincy, your essence rejects the intrusion of hollow reiyoku. The clash of pure Quincy and hollow energy within you creates an imbalance. At times, your powers will be in harmony, and at others, they will wane.

Yhwach, analyzing the situation, sought a solution.

Yhwach: What is the remedy, then? I cannot afford such inconsistencies in my abilities.

Zaegar, the dark void pulsating around them, revealed the path ahead.

Zaegar: Patience, Quincy King. Allow time to be the mender of the rift. Your essence must acclimate to the fusion of Quincy and hollow energies. In due course, the side effects will diminish.

Yhwach, ever resolute, nodded in understanding.

Yhwach: Patience has always been a virtue. I shall endure until the balance is restored. But tell me, Zaegar, what purpose does this fusion serve? What is the true potential that lies within me?

Zaegar, his hollow laughter echoing through the void, spoke with certainty.

Zaegar: The potential within you is boundless, Quincy King. The fusion of Quincy and hollow energies opens pathways to abilities yet untapped. The next Soul King shall rise beyond the limitations of mortality.

Yhwach, absorbing Zaegar's words

Zaegar: (whispering) Rest now, Quincy King. The journey ahead is one of revelation and ascension. When the time is right, the true extent of your power shall manifest.

With those words, Yhwach felt the pull of the void, and the Dark Void swallowed his consciousness once again.

In the physical realm, Yhwach found himself back in the guest bedroom, the dim light casting shadows on the walls. The residue of Zaegar's presence lingered, and Yhwach, with newfound resolve, acknowledged the path that lay ahead.

Yhwach: (thoughts) The fusion of energies within me is both a challenge and an opportunity. Patience shall be my ally once again as I navigate this uncharted territory.

he allowed the currents of reishi to flow around him, sensing the subtle changes within his own essence.

Yhwach, having concluded his introspective moment, stood up with purpose. He reached for the hilt of his sword, unsheathing it with a fluid motion. To his mild displeasure, he found the blade slightly rusty, a testament to the trials and battles it had endured.

Yhwach: (thoughts) A blade reflects the spirit of its wielder. Neglect is not befitting of one who aspires to greatness.

With a determined gaze, Yhwach began the meticulous process of cleaning and fixing his blade. Each stroke and movement seemed deliberate, a ritual of restoration. As he worked, the room filled with the faint sound of metal against metal, echoing the quiet determination of the Quincy King.

Meanwhile, outside the guest bedroom, Tatsumi knocked on the door, interrupting Yhwach's task.

Tatsumi: Yhwach, dinner's almost ready. The folks here are really treating us well.

Yhwach, without pausing his work, responded calmly.

Yhwach: I'll join shortly. Ensure they know my appreciation for their hospitality.

Tatsumi, intrigued by Yhwach's dedication to his sword, couldn't help but ask.

Tatsumi: Why bother with the sword maintenance now? We're not in the midst of a battle.

Yhwach, still focused on his blade, provided a measured response.

Yhwach: A warrior's blade is an extension of oneself. Neglecting its care is akin to neglecting one's own strength. Besides, discipline in the small matters cultivates discipline in the grand.

Aria: Tatsumi, Yhwach. Dinner's ready!

Yhwach and Tatsumi were finally told about who Night Raid was and Tatsumi got his answer to why The Capital ordered so many taxes on his village.

Right now we see Aria's mother writing something on her diary.

Aria's Mother: "Well, well, now I can add another entry to my diary. What an addicting little hobby this is-.

Aria's Mother was interrupted as she was cut in half by a purple haired girl with VERY BIG scissors.

Purple Haired Girl: I'm Sorry.

Tatsumi Pov:

Tatsumi woke up because of the noise.

Tatsumi: Huh. What was that?

He took a second to gather his thoughts.

Tatsumi: Trouble. I should get Yhwach, He'll know what to do. 

He ran out of the halls until he saw something that caught his eye... Night Raid was standing outside the window upstairs. Tatsumi immediately turned around and saw Yhwach right behind him.

Yhwach: Night Raid.

Tatsumi: But why are they here?

Tatsumi: We've got to do something. Here, you protect the family while I go hel-

He was interrupted as he saw all of the guards getting killed very quickly.

Tatsumi: They... They were killed in seconds. We have to protect Miss Aria.

Meanwhile

Bodyguard: Hurry Milady this way. 

He said while running with Aria trying to protect her.

Aria: What's happening? 

She asked confused and unaware of the situation.

Bodyguard: Just get to the shed for now.

Tatsumi: There you are! 

He said while catching his breath.

Aria: Tatsumi? Yhwach?

Bodyguard: Ok, Great, Y'all are here. I'll hide the young lady and wait for the guards. See what you can do to stall them until then. Got it?

Tatsumi: You really expect us take ou-.

He was interrupted as someone landed behind him.

Tatsumi: Well, a little too late to complain! 

He said taking out his sword.

The black haired girl came dashing towards Tatsumi.

Black Haired Girl: You both are not targets.

She jumped over Tatsumi but she was brought back down by Yhwach.

Yhwach: Why does that matter? 

He said, Staring at the black haired girl.

Black Haired Girl: Do not interfere.

She said, releasing herself from his grip.

To Yhwach's surprise, she was very quick and strong, He couldn't keep up with her speed because he was still recovering from the amount of power he had lost from the Walker's Bites and Zaegar

Bodyguard: Damnit!

He said while firing a gun at the girl.

Black Haired Girl: But you are!

She cut the guard in his abdomen, but something was running up his body where he was cut. Yhwach quickly found out what this was.

Yhwach: ( Thoughts ) Poison.

 He concluded.

As she was about to cut Aria, she was stopped by an Arrow. She dodged the Arrow that was approaching her and saw Yhwach holding a Quincy Bow.

Black Haired Girl: I told you, you're not a target. You don't have to die.

Yhwach: Your distinction between targets and non-targets is irrelevant. We won't allow harm to come to those under our protection.

The black-haired girl, assessing the situation, sighed.

Black Haired Girl: Very well, if you insist on getting in the way.

She dashed toward Yhwach with incredible speed, her movements a blur. Yhwach, despite his weakened state, managed to fire a series of arrows in rapid succession. The black-haired girl skillfully evaded most of them, but a couple grazed her, leaving small wounds.

The black-haired girl, with swift and precise movements, closed the distance between her and Yhwach. Her katana sliced through the air with deadly intent, aiming for a decisive strike. Yhwach, displaying his Quincy prowess, quickly activated Blut Vene, reinforcing his arm with a solid layer of Reiyoku.

 ( Picture )

The clash between the katana and Yhwach's protected arm created a resonating impact, sending ripples through the air. Yhwach, despite the strain on his weakened body, stood firm, his unwavering gaze locked onto his assailant.

She swiftly disengaged, leaping backward to create distance. Yhwach, maintaining his composure, readied his bow once again, drawing spiritual energy to the arrowhead.

Tatsumi, witnessing the intense confrontation, felt a surge of frustration. He couldn't stand idly by while Yhwach faced this formidable opponent alone. With determination in his eyes, Tatsumi unsheathed his sword and charged towards the black-haired girl, aiming to catch her off guard.

Tatsumi: I won't let you harm Aria or anyone else!

The black-haired girl, sensing Tatsumi's approach, effortlessly evaded his initial strike. She countered with a swift kick, sending Tatsumi staggering backward. However, Tatsumi quickly recovered, fueled by determination and the desire to protect.

Tatsumi and the girl charged at each other as their blades clashed together. She jumped off of Tatsumi as he got pushed back, but when her blade was about to touch Tatsumi, Yhwach interfered as he punched her away, knocking her 10 feet away. Yhwach and the black-haired girl stood their ground as they stared at one another. She was about to attack but she got pulled back by the same yellow-haired girl that took Tatsumi's money.

Black haired Girl: What are you doing?

Leone: Well, we've got some time left, and I kinda owe these two a favor. I'm pretty sure they'd like to cash it in now. 

She said with a wink.

Tatsumi: HEY! Your that girl with the boobs!

Leone: Yep, that's what they call me.

Yhwach: Why are you attacking this family? If I may ask?

Black Haired Girl: They have innocent blood on their hands.

Said the black haired girl

Leone: If you don't believe her Take a look inside of the shed.

Tatsumi turned around and saw the shed, and he smells innocent blood, he turned to Aria and she looked nervous.

Aria: O-oh trust m-me, Th-there's nothing in th-there, I p-promise.

she said as she sweat dropped.

Yhwach broke the door to the shed and took a look inside. He couldn't believe what he was seeing. Bodies... Bodies everywhere, most of them dead. They've been tortured with poison, starvation, bruises, and broken bones, some set on fire.

Tatsumi: Yhwach Wha-

He stopped and saw what the Black Haired Girl was talking about, he saw everything.

Leone: Welcome to the capital, kid.

Tatsumi: W- wh- what is all of this?

Leone: We learned that they pick up out-of-town newcomers from the countryside, and then torture them for their own sick, twisted entertainment. That's the reality of this "poor, innocent happy family".

Tatsumi gasped as he looked up and saw someone that looked familiar to him.

Tatsumi: Sayo... no... that's... that's Sayo.

Leone: Do you know who this little girl is?

Yhwach: That is one of his closest friends that he came here with before they got separated.

He said as he looked at Tatsumi.

Aria was about to turn-tail and run, but not before Yhwach grabbed her by the throat.

Yhwach, his grip firm on Aria's throat, looked at her with a stern expression.

Yhwach: You won't be going anywhere. It's time to answer for your crimes.

Tatsumi: These people... really did this?

Leone: Yes, they did and their guards are just as guilty for keeping it hidden.

Aria: SHE'S LYING, I HAD NO IDEA THA- 

She was interrupted as Yhwach punched her in the stomach, causing her to cough up blood.

Yhwach: Ignorance is not an excuse. You were complicit in these heinous acts. Your association with this family implicates you.

Aria: Tatsumi... please, you've got to believe me.

Tatsumi: ...I-

He was interrupted as someone called out his name.

Ieyasu: Tatsumi. Is that... Is it you?... It's me. 

Said the voice weakly.

Tatsumi: Ieyasu?! 

Tatsumi said while running towards his cell.

Ieyasu: She invited us to stay at her house, she gave us something to eat and then everything went black. Then we woke up here.... And..... and then that girl... sh- she tortured Sayo to death!

Aria: Fine, fine I did it ok?! 

She said getting out of Yhwach's grip.

Aria: THESE TRASH ARE JUST WORTHLESS FILTH, THERE NOTHING BUT... BUT LIVESTOCK FOR ME TO USE AS I SEE FIT! GARBAGE LIKE HER DOESN'T HAVE THE RIGHT TO HAVE SUCH BEAUTIFULL HAIR, MINE IS ALWAYS GIVING ME TROUBLE, SO I TREATED HER EXTRA SPECIAL! SHE SHOULD BE HONORED I GAVE HER SO MUCH ATTENTION! UNGREATFUL PIIIIIIIG!

Leone: Sorry honey, I don't mean to interrupt your little tantrum, but you are kind of disturbing.

Black Haired Girl: I'll kill her. 

She said as he unsheathed her blade.

Yhwach, sensing the black-haired girl's intent to retaliate, stepped forward and raised his hand, signaling her to halt.

Yhwach: No. Let Tatsumi handle this.

The black-haired girl, her eyes filled with a burning rage, hesitated for a moment, then reluctantly sheathed her blade. She turned to Yhwach with a stern expression.

Black Haired Girl: Why? She deserves to pay for what she's done.

Yhwach, his voice steady, explained his reasoning.

Yhwach: Tatsumi has a personal stake in this. She took the lives of his friends. Let him be the one to deliver justice.

Tatsumi, fueled by a mix of anger and sorrow, approached Aria. His hands clenched into fists, and his eyes reflected the pain of the betrayal he had just witnessed.

Tatsumi: You... You killed Sayo... and all those others. Why?

Aria, still defiant, sneered at Tatsumi.

Aria: Because they were weak. I made them suffer for my amusement. You're all just cattle to be used and discarded.

Tatsumi, unable to contain his rage, swung his sword at Aria. The blade cut through the air with a swift, determined motion. Aria, now defenseless, braced herself for the impact.

The room fell silent as Tatsumi's blade struck true, and Aria fell to the ground, her life extinguished. The weight of the moment hung heavily in the air.

Leone, watching from a distance, sighed.

Leone: Well, that's one way to deal with it. Brutal, but effective.

The black-haired girl, though visibly unsatisfied, nodded in acknowledgment of Yhwach's decision.

Black Haired Girl: It's your call. Just remember the lives she took.

Tatsumi, standing over Aria's lifeless body, felt a mix of emotions—relief, sorrow, and a burning desire for justice. The reality of the capital's darkness had been laid bare before him, and Tatsumi knew that his journey was far from over.

Yhwach, placing a hand on Tatsumi's shoulder, offered a word of solace.

Yhwach: This was a necessary step, Tatsumi. Justice is not always clean, and you did what needed to be done.

The moment didn't last long as Ieyasu caught Yhwach's attention.

Ieyasu: Thank you... whoever you are...

Yhwach: My name is Yhwach, Tatsumi told me a lot about you.

Ieyasu: Huh, so he did. T- Thank you Yhwach... I needed to see that bitch be put in her place. 

Tatsumi: Ieyasu!

Tatsumi quickly ran after his friend and broke open the gate to his cell. Tatsumi laid down Ieyasu gently as he was close to his dying breath.

Leone: It's the Lebola Virus.

Tatsumi: HUH?!

Black Haired Girl: The mother enjoyed poisoning people with different medicines, she even kept a diary detailing each victim's reactions.

Tatsumi's eyes widened in shock as he processed the information about the Lebola Virus. He looked at Ieyasu, who was visibly weakened, struggling for breath.

Tatsumi: No... Ieyasu, hang in there! We need to find an antidote or something!

Leone: Sorry, kid, but there's no cure for Lebola. Once you're infected, it's just a matter of time.

Tatsumi started to tear up, he didn't want to lose his best friend after all that they've been through together.

Ieyasu: Tatsumi.

He said, gaining Tatsumi's attention.

Ieyasu: You should know... that Sayo never did break, she never let herself give in....She was incredible. So, I wanted to... to go out.... a hero-.

He could barely say it on his last breath.

Black Haired Girl: His strong will was the only thing that kept him alive.

Tatsumi: Wh- What the hell is wrong with this place?!

Tatsumi's tears flowed freely as he knelt beside Ieyasu, his heart heavy with grief and anger. The reality of the atrocities committed in the mansion weighed on him, and the loss of his friend felt like a crushing blow.

Tatsumi: Ieyasu... I'm so sorry. I should've found you sooner, should've protected you.

Tatsumi, determined through his grief, looked at Yhwach, who had been watching the scene unfold. Yhwach approached Tatsumi and placed a comforting hand on his shoulder.

Yhwach: Tatsumi, life is filled with moments of pain and loss. It's how we rise from those moments that defines us. Your strength is needed now more than ever.

Tatsumi, wiping away his tears, looked up at Yhwach.

Tatsumi: Yhwach, I can't let them get away with this. I need to make them pay for what they've done.

Yhwach: And you will. But remember, revenge isn't the only path. Seek justice, bring light to the darkness, and ensure that no one else suffers as your friends did.

Tatsumi, his resolve renewed, stood up, nodding in agreement.

Tatsumi: You're right. I won't let their deaths be in vain. I'll expose the truth and put an end to this madness.

Yhwach: That's the spirit. We'll face this together.

Black Haired Girl: Let's go. 

she said, turning around.

Leone: Hey, Akame.

Akame: Hmm?

Leone: Don't you think we should take them with us, we could use an extra pair of hands, I mean, Yhwach here was able to get a punch on you and is decent with archery he held his own against you 

She said making a piont.

Leone: And, Tatsumi here seems to have potential and a little luck on his side.

She said dragging Tatsumi with them while Yhwach just walked.

Tatsumi: Wait, I need to bury my friends!

Leone: Oh, and If you want, I can take the bodies back to the hideout later ok. Just relax.

The group finally arrived to the rest of the Night Raid members with Tatsumi still being dragged around with Yhwach still walking.

Pink Haired Girl: Your late! What took you so long? And who are these two?

Said a girl with pink hair and pink eyes.

Leone: NEW RECRUITS!

Tatsumi: HUH!

Leone: Oh yeah, forgot to tell you, starting today your both part of the team.

Yhwach: What..

Leone: Congratulations, you just joined, The Night Raid.

Tatsumi: Wait, don't i get a say in this?!

Akame: Just give up, Leone gets her way no matter what.

Leone: Look at that! My best friend knows how it works! Oh yeah, Bulat, he's all yours 

she said to a guy in armor.

Bulat then picked up Tatsumi as he was struggling to get free.

Tatsumi: Hey! Let me go, I don't wanna murder people!

Bulat: Aww, it gets easier. 

he said with sparkles floating around him.

Akame: The Mission is now complete. We're heading back.

Tatsumi: Wait, where are we going?

Leone: To the secret base! Ya' dummy.

Tatsumi: Aw man, how did I get myself into this?