Neo Soul King Yhwach

Inner World Location - Dark Void

Zaegar's monstrous form loomed over Yhwach, its hollow eyes fixated on the Quincy King. The dark void seemed to resonate with the immense power radiating from Zaegar.

Zaegar: ( chuckling ) Welcome back Yhwach How does it feel to be expelled from the depths of the void?

Yhwach, still seething with frustration, glared at Zaegar.

Yhwach: Why did you throw me out?

Zaegar: (chuckles) Boredom, Yhwach. Boredom is a powerful force, even for one as ancient as I. Watching you struggle and writhe in the emptiness of the void was... entertaining.

Yhwach: Entertainment? Is that what I am to you?

Zaegar: (still chuckling) In a sense, yes. Your existence, your struggles, they amuse me. I wanted to see how you'd react, how you'd claw your way back.

Yhwach: You find joy in my suffering?

Zaegar: (unfazed) Joy, amusement, call it what you will. It breaks the monotony of eternity.

Yhwach let out a sigh, his frustration slowly giving way to curiosity.

Yhwach: Fine, if you're here to apologize, then speak your piece.

Zaegar: I apologize, Yhwach. My actions were driven by the whims of boredom, and I did not consider the impact it would have on you.

Yhwach raised an eyebrow, still wary of Zaegar's intentions.

Yhwach: Apologies? From you? That's unexpected.

Zaegar spoke, its tone earnest.

Zaegar: Yhwach, I assure you, my intent was not to cause you distress. The void can be a lonely place, and I sought a diversion, albeit at your expense.

Yhwach: (looking at Zaegar blankly) Apologies from a Hollow for causing boredom. This is peculiar.

Zaegar continued, trying to convey sincerity.

Zaegar: Did you not believe me, Yhwach? I understand that trust is a delicate matter, especially considering our shared existence.

Yhwach: Trust is earned, not freely given. Your actions left me with doubt, Zaegar.

Zaegar: Fair enough. I will strive to be more mindful of our connection and your well-being.

The dark void seemed to ripple with a subtle shift in energy. Yhwach remained vigilant, still uncertain of Zaegar's true nature.

Yhwach: Your words are noted, Zaegar. But actions will speak louder than apologies.

Zaegar nodded, a strange synchronicity in the otherwise disconcerting realm of the dark void.

Zaegar: Understandable, Yhwach. 

Yhwach's stern gaze pierced through the shadows as he confronted Zaegar.

Yhwach: Zaegar, what's the purpose of my presence here?

Zaegar's grin widened, his imposing figure casting a dark silhouette over Yhwach.

Zaegar: The reason for your presence? Simple, Yhwach—to undergo rigorous training, nothing more.

Yhwach looked up at Zaegar, a skeptical expression on his face.

Yhwach: Train? How do you propose we do that when you're chained up?

Zaegar's grin widened, and he chuckled.

Zaegar: Ah, Yhwach, my dear Quincy, that won't be an issue. I'll create a clone of myself to engage you in combat.

As Zaegar spoke, the shadows beneath Yhwach's feet expanded, morphing into a distinct, shadowy figure. The figure solidified, revealing itself as a dark, ethereal version of Zaegar.

Zaegar's Shadow Figure: Ready yourself, Yhwach.

Zaegar held out his hand, and from the shadows, two blades materialized. He threw the first blade to Yhwach, a challenge in his eyes.

Zaegar: Let the training begin. Show me your strength, Yhwach.

Yhwach caught the blade mid-air, eyeing the shadowy figure before him. He assumed a battle stance, the dark energy in the void intensifying as the training duel commenced.

Yhwach: If this is your method, Zaegar, so be it. Prepare yourself.

As Yhwach focused on the shadowy figure, he sensed a presence behind him. Swiftly turning, he found Zaegar, the real one, ready to strike him down. Yhwach sighed, almost finding it predictable.

Yhwach: Predictable.

With a swift motion, Yhwach sliced through Zaegar, cleaving him in half. However, to Yhwach's surprise, the real Zaegar was standing behind him, completely unharmed. Zaegar taunted him, his voice echoing through the dark void.

Zaegar: Look behind you, Yhwach. Seems like you underestimated me.

Yhwach turned, his gaze shifting between the Zaegar he cut in half and the one standing unscathed. A moment of confusion passed over Yhwach's face.

Yhwach: Impossible.

Zaegar grinned, enjoying the Quincy King's bewilderment. Without warning, he rushed at Yhwach at the speed of light, attempting to deliver a fatal blow. Yhwach, caught off guard, barely managed to parry in time, causing a shockwave that rippled throughout the dark void.

Yhwach: Are you trying to kill me or train me?

Zaegar laughed, the resonance of his voice echoing through the emptiness.

Zaegar: What's the difference, Yhwach? In the crucible of combat, one learns, one grows. Embrace the chaos; that's where strength is forged.

Zaegar's laughter echoed through the dark void as he effortlessly overpowered Yhwach, kicking him away. Yhwach tumbled into the abyss, but quickly caught the edge of the dark void, preventing himself from falling further. With a swift climb, he ascended back into the emptiness, only to find Zaegar waiting for him with a scowl.

Zaegar: (mockingly) What happened to the great king of Quincy? Is this truly Yhwach, the first Quincy, the mighty leader?

Yhwach, his frustration mounting, glared at Zaegar.

Yhwach: You revel in challenging me, don't you?

Zaegar grinned, the dark void casting an eerie light on his monstrous form.

Zaegar: Oh, Yhwach, I revel in pushing you to your limits. That's how strength is honed.

Yhwach steadied himself, his Quincy pride refusing to be overshadowed by Zaegar's taunts.

Yhwach: Enough games, Zaegar. If we're to train, let's do it seriously.

Zaegar's expression shifted, and he nodded.

Zaegar: Very well, Yhwach. Serious it is.

The dark void seemed to intensify as the two beings prepared for the next round of their training. Yhwach assumed a focused stance, determined to prove his strength. Zaegar, his monstrous form exuding power, grinned as the tension in the void thickened.

Zaegar: Show me the true might of a Quincy, Yhwach. Let the training continue.

In the blink of an eye, Yhwach and Zaegar rushed towards each other within the dark void. Zaegar, with a sinister grin, reveled in the impending clash, while Yhwach maintained a stoic and focused demeanor. As they closed the distance, Zaegar summoned a second blade into his hand, aiming to cut through Yhwach's arm.

Yhwach, anticipating the attack, moved with incredible speed, narrowly dodging Zaegar's blade. The dark void resonated with the sheer force of their movements, creating ripples in the emptiness around them.

Zaegar: You disappoint me, Yhwach. As the new Soul King, I expected more from you.

Yhwach, coming to a sudden halt, narrowed his eyes in confusion.

Yhwach: What do you mean, "new Soul King"?

Zaegar chuckled, a low and mocking sound that reverberated through the dark expanse.

Zaegar: Oh, Yhwach, always so unaware.

Zaegar's laughter grew louder, echoing in the emptiness.

Zaegar: Denial suits you, but it won't change the truth.

As Zaegar spoke, the shadowy figure of the clone disappeared, along with the ethereal sword Yhwach was carrying. Yhwach, now unarmed, looked at the real Zaegar with a mix of defiance and questioning.

Zaegar: (still laughing) Why do you think you were given a second chance, Yhwach?

Yhwach, meeting Zaegar's gaze, responded with a stern tone.

Yhwach: Because of my sins. The damage I caused in Soul Society, the lives I took, the pain I inflicted on my sons and daughters.

Zaegar's laughter gradually subsided, replaced by a calculating stare.

Zaegar: Indeed, your sins are vast, Yhwach. But there's more to it than mere atonement.

Yhwach, though skeptical, listened intently.

Yhwach: Enlighten me, Zaegar. Why was I given a second chance?

Zaegar's expression turned serious, his hollow eyes locking onto Yhwach's.

Zaegar: While I may not know the actual real reason, I can sense that your second chance isn't just a matter of atonement. 

Zaegar: ( laughing) Maybe It's a late birthday present from the Soul King.

Yhwach's eyes narrowed, and a cold fury emanated from him. Without uttering a word, he held out his hand, and in an instant, countless chains emerged from the dark void, snaking their way toward Zaegar.

Zaegar's eyes widened in surprise as the chains bound him, tightening with an unyielding force. The monstrous form of Zaegar struggled against the constricting chains, his growls echoing through the dark void.

Zaegar: What is the meaning of this, Yhwach?

Yhwach, his gaze unwavering, spoke with an air of authority.

Yhwach: While my powers may be sealed in this realm, it doesn't mean I've lost control over my inner world.

The chains continued to tighten, and Zaegar grunted in discomfort.

Zaegar: Testing your newfound control on me, are you?

Yhwach: (smirking) Consider it a demonstration. A reminder that even with my powers sealed, I remain the master of this realm.

Zaegar, though restrained, maintained a defiant glare.

Zaegar: Impressive, Yhwach. But what do you hope to achieve with this display of control?

Yhwach's expression turned serious.

Yhwach: I want you to understand that I am not to be underestimated, even in this state. I may not fully comprehend the purpose of my second chance, but I will not allow anyone, not even you, to toy with me.

With those words, Yhwach exerted more control over the chains, causing them to squeeze tighter around Zaegar.

Zaegar: (grinning) A bold move, Yhwach. It seems the Quincy King is not one to yield easily.

With a subtle gesture, Yhwach loosened the chains, allowing Zaegar to break free. The monstrous form of Zaegar straightened, the chains disintegrating into the shadows. Yhwach, without a word, began to walk away from Zaegar, the dark void stretching endlessly around them.

Zaegar, still recovering from the restraint, watched Yhwach with a mix of curiosity and amusement.

Zaegar: Leaving so soon, Yhwach? Do you think you've proven your point?

Yhwach didn't turn back, continuing his stride through the emptiness.

Yhwach: I'll yield when I see fit, Zaegar. I won't be a pawn in your games.

Zaegar's hollow laughter echoed through the dark void.

Zaegar: Pride, Yhwach. It's always been your downfall. The Quincy King, so full of pride.

Yhwach stopped, his back still facing Zaegar. He spoke with a calm yet resolute tone.

Yhwach: I've learned humility, Zaegar. In death, one gains perspective. Pride is a fleeting notion, and I've seen the consequences of such arrogance.

Zaegar, floating in the dark void, observed Yhwach with a critical eye.

Zaegar: Humility, you say? A fleeting lesson, perhaps. But don't mistake a moment of clarity for a cure. Pride is deeply ingrained, and its roots are not easily severed.

Yhwach turned slightly, glancing back at Zaegar.

Yhwach: I've learned many things during my time in the world of the walking dead. Pride is a double-edged sword, and I have no intention of letting it consume me again.

Zaegar, still with a mocking grin, offered a cryptic piece of advice.

Zaegar: Pride is the mother of all spiritual diseases, Yhwach. It is extremely destructive and one of the most difficult diseases to cure. Learn humility, for it is the antidote to this affliction.

Yhwach chuckled, a genuine but restrained amusement in his voice.

Yhwach: I've already learned humility, Zaegar. Death has a way of humbling even the mightiest.

Zaegar's grin widened, his hollow eyes glinting in the dark.

Zaegar: Humility can be a fleeting lesson, Yhwach. The true test is whether you can carry it with you beyond the confines of death.

Yhwach resumed his departure, his figure gradually fading into the shadows of the dark void.

Yhwach: Time will tell, Zaegar. I walk my path, not dictated by pride but shaped by the lessons I've learned.

Timeskip - Morning

Yhwach found himself in the spacious, modern kitchen of the new Night Raid base. The abrupt transition from the dark void to the warm, well-lit surroundings didn't erase the memories of his encounter with Zaegar, which lingered in his thoughts.

Tatsumi stood by the table, holding a plate of freshly cooked breakfast. Upon noticing Yhwach's presence, he greeted him.

Tatsumi: Morning, Yhwach! Had an interesting night?

Yhwach, still contemplating the lessons learned in the dark void, nodded in acknowledgment.

Yhwach: Indeed, Tatsumi. It was an enlightening experience.

Tatsumi, ever eager to engage in conversation, raised an eyebrow.

Tatsumi: Enlightening, huh? Anything you want to share?

Yhwach walked over to the table and took a seat, the stern expression on his face softening.

Yhwach: Perhaps later, Tatsumi. For now, let's focus on the present. I appreciate the effort you put into preparing breakfast.

Tatsumi beamed with pride.

Tatsumi: It's nothing, really! I'm just happy to help. Dig in, and let me know if you need anything else.

As Yhwach started his meal, the rest of the Night Raid members gradually joined the breakfast gathering. Leone, Lubbock, and the others took their seats, exchanging casual greetings and discussing the plans for the day.

Tatsumi: Wait a minute. Quick question... Boss, just how old are you?

Najenda: I'm in my mid-twenties, and fun fact, Esdeath is just a little bit younger than me.

Tatsumi: You're in your mid-twenties?! I thought you were WAY older!!!

He shouted.

Najenda let out a gasp of shock and anger. She took his comment about her age very personally, and so, she beat the hell out of Tatsumi in only a few seconds, leaving bruise marks and a bump on top of his head.

Akame: Tatsumi, you should know better than to ask a woman about her age. It's rude.

Susanoo: Food is ready!!

The plates that Susanoo was carrying had chicken, rice, biscuits, mashed potatoes, and a huge slab of meat on the side for a certain meat lover.

Akame rushed over to the table and sat in her chair, leaving Tatsumi on the ground.

Everyone began to converse with one another, whether it was about the Capital, their plans for taking care of the Jeagers, or just irritating Lubbock because he can't get a girl... but mostly the last one.

Tatsumi: Yhwach, I didn't know that you knew how to make tea! This is amazing!

He said as he took a small sip of tea from his cup.

Yhwach: Tatsumi, tea-making is among the simpler skills I've acquired along the way.

Tatsumi, still sipping the tea, looked genuinely impressed.

Tatsumi: Akame, what happened to that girl with the huge ears?

Akame: She's still locked up in her cell. And don't worry, we are feeding her.

Najenda: I know this is a bit sudden, but after we eat, we're going to have a strategy meeting in the living room. It's time to move out. The Revolution is finally here. We're ready to make the first steps towards overthrowing this corrupt government once and for all!

Timeskip - Living room

The group of assassins and Ogre were sitting around a large table with a map on top of it, holding multi-colored markers that showed the position of the Revolution and the Capital. Najenda stood up off her chair to begin the meeting.

Najenda: I assume you're all familiar with the popular religion among citizens known as the Path of Peace?

Chelsea: They're the ones who believe that a person's good deeds determine their happiness and longevity of life.

Tatsumi: Oh, yeah! They used to teach that religion back in my village. In fact, on the day I left to head towards the Capital, the mayor even gave me a hand-held statue of their god.

Najenda: In the past ten years, more and more people have been joining this religion.

Najenda: Its influence is quite high in the eastern part of the Capital. We have a reason to believe that they're taking up arms. They're looking to launch a rebellious religion. The plan is to use this to our advantage.

When Tatsumi heard this, he immediately stood up off his chair and started to speak.

Tatsumi: Are you kidding me?! Don't you understand how many people could die if there's a religious rebellion?! Shouldn't we try to stifle it or something?!

Najenda: The capital's backward government has driven the people over the edge. Even if we manage to quell the uprising, the enraged masses will simply burst somewhere else. This forsaken empire is already in its final days.

Chelsea: You should have let her finish before you threw a tantrum.

Lubbock: Remember the story about the renegade tribe and the hero from the north? They failed because they tried to tackle the Empire on their own. The powers can be rather capable. Give 'em a little time, and they'll put out the Path of Peace rebellion too, and when they do, it won't be pretty.

Najenda: And that's when the Revolutionary Army comes in! We're allies with the tribe in the west, who were planning to launch an investigation as soon as the religious revolt began. When they do, the Empire will be obliged to defend itself from both sides of the border. But this will not be enough to bring it down. So, for the final blow, the Revolutionary Army will stage a riot in the south. As soon as we march into the Capital, we'll bring the Empire to its knees.

Tatsumi: An attack from more sides... it might work... but aren't you forgetting the Teigu users of the Capital, the Jeagers?

Najenda: We already have a strategy. Anyway, to reach the Capital, the army will take all the castles and bastions. But many nobles turned to our side since they were demoted just for working hard. The Capital will be so shocked from the advance without bloodshed that it will surrender.

Najenda: Their trump card, the Great General Budo, and his soldiers will attack. But that will mean the security of the palace will be compromised.

Then Akame grabbed her Murasame.

Akame: When that happens, we will have the opportunity to assassinate the Prime Minister. We'll storm the palace and assassinate the minister. We will demolish the capital from within.

Lubbock: But usually jerks like him tend to run away.

Leone: He can forget it. I'll chase him anywhere.

Najenda: To pay the West tribe for the help, we'll restore their land as it was before.

Najenda: However, the Path of Peace, the core of the plan, is currently unstable.

Tatsumi: How so?

Najenda: The founder of the cult is very charismatic, but his advisor, Borick, is a spy of the Prime Minister.

Najenda: Borick's mission is to take control of the cult and stop the rebellion. Now, here's the mission.

She drew an arrow on the map, pointing at an 'X'.

Najenda: We'll go to the headquarters of the Path of Peace to kill Borick. He's a monster who mixed drugs in the food of the cult, turning them into puppets. There's no need to hold back.

Suddenly, Lubbock and Susanoo made really scary faces, grinding their teeth.

Lubbock: He probably went with any woman he wanted!

Susanoo: Mixing drugs in food is a crime against food itself!

Lubbock and Susanoo: I'll never forgive him!

That said, they crossed their right arms as a team-up.

Najenda: You two... don't you think something else should make you mad?

Leone: If left alone, more followers will be drugged... we must stop them.

Tatsumi: But what should we do with the Jeagers? You said you already had a strategy.

Najenda: Until they serve Esdeath, they'll be part of the minister's private army. So, for our plan to work, we should face them first. At this point, they'll do anything to hunt us. And with that, we'll lure them away from the Capital. And then we'll attack.

Najenda: The headquarters gave us the order to kill Bols and Kurome, if possible.

Najenda: You can fight them without a problem, even if you met them, right Tatsumi? Yhwach?

But he clenched his fist, staring at Najenda.

Tatsumi: I'll give all myself, even if they aren't our main targets! I'm sure of it!

Najenda awaited Yhwach's response, and after a moment of contemplation, he finally spoke.

Yhwach: Najenda, your strategy is comprehensive. I understand the importance of our mission. We must proceed carefully and decisively.

Najenda nodded in acknowledgment, appreciating Yhwach's seriousness. The discussion continued, with each member providing insights and suggestions. As the planning unfolded, Yhwach interjected.

Yhwach: Before we delve further into the details, there's a matter I'd like to attend to. I believe a moment of reflection is necessary. If you'll excuse me, I'll retire to have some tea. It helps clear my thoughts.

With that, Yhwach excused himself from the meeting and headed to the capital.

Yhwach reached the Capital and went to the tea shop. After taking his cup of tea, he sat outside.

With his cup in hand, Yhwach settled into a comfortable seat, choosing a quiet corner to enjoy his solitude. The gentle breeze carried the fragrance of blossoming flowers, enhancing the tranquility of the moment. Yhwach decided to indulge in a newspaper, wanting to catch up on the latest events in the Capital.

As he immersed himself in the articles, absorbing the political and societal happenings, a voice interrupted his quiet reading.

Voice: Excuse me, is this seat taken?

Without lowering the paper, Yhwach responded without missing a beat.

Yhwach: No, feel free to join me.

Voice: Don't mind if I do.

Yhwach promptly set the paper aside, and his eyes, filled with shock, locked onto the equally surprised gaze of the newcomer.

Voice: Yhwach!?

Yhwach: Esdeath!?