Slay the Persecution III

Time: 7:00 P.M.

The family that composed Team AKARA had finally gathered in the dining room to sit down and have dinner together for the night. After their long day out together, the newly formed couple had already taken the time to get cleaned up as did Akaro after having to deal with the dirty work of skinning the meat for this meal. Now having the time to relax and enjoy one another's company, the five individuals sat and ate to their heart's content before having a bit of banter.

"That was great babe," Akaro commented upon finishing his fill for the night while wiping his lips off.

"Of course, I cooked it after all," Akame spoke hinting at pride in her culinary skills despite keeping her flat and emotionless demeanor.

"I'm just happy you were able to make some pancakes as well as prepare this meal. I approve," Kimiko remarked also finishing up her fill.

"You really do enjoy your pancakes Kimi-nee," Raizo pointed out taking his last few bites before immediately taking a sip of water.

"Oh please, it's like how you enjoy sushi Raizo," Adena teased before taking a little more to eat then finishing what was left on her plate.

"Oi, sushi is a delicacy that I cannot help but to enjoy," the former blood wolf countered.

"Indeed and that is how I feel about pancakes. They are a necessity. Though our dishes are different in context, you understand me little brother," Kimiko spoke.

"Yes, we are comrades in this," Raizo responded. The pair shares a mutual thumbs-up motion agreeing with the other's logic.

"Oh no, they're beginning to bond over food. This is bad," Akaro comments after watching his two younger siblings share a moment.

"It's okay Big Bro, I got ya," Adena reassures the male reaching out for a fist bump.

"My bestie," Akaro nods in approval reaching out but Akame grabs his wrist.

"No, no more earthquakes. You two aren't doing that again," she sharply replies.

Laughter bursts out at the table as they all share in a good time enjoying one another's company. For them, being together like this dispelled all the anxiety and concerns with matters of great threat. It was like conflict and chaos didn't matter. There was nothing but joy to be expressed when they were able to come together like this. Even though this may be the second time they have come together as Team AKARA, it felt like their bond had stretched many lifetimes. It was hard to describe it exactly but to put simply, it just felt natural.

As the little slip of laughter faded, Adena turns her eyes to Raizo with a smile on her face like that of a fawning girl in her teens. The Stormbringer immediately feels like his air was cut off in his lungs and feels heat rush into his cheeks forming that blush while he narrowly looks away. Though it was something small, it did not pass from the attentive eyes of the three visitors from another universe.

"No way," Akaro gasped in surprise.

"It happened at last," Akame sighed in relief.

"My ship is finally canon; this night has been made," Kimiko calmly remarked.

"Hehe, told y'all I wouldn't let ya down," Adena winked. Simultaneously, the three red-eyed individuals gave Adena a small salute of an approving nature. The redhead enthusiastically returned it. Lost for words, Raizo could merely witness the actions taking place.

"Wait…y…you guys were in on this?!!" he exclaimed.

"Well of course lil' bro, I mean…you seriously needed to give this girl a yes. Honestly man, how could ya do that?" Akaro chastised in a humorous way.

"It seems I'll have to teach you the ways of dealing with women Raizo. Sigh, always the student of mine," Akame remarked with hits of criticism.

"You already know how much I shipped this, does it really come as a surprise?" stated Kimiko.

"Y…you guys! R..really?!! T…this is…what the hell?! Tch…idiots," Raizo stumbled over his words caught between being upset and being embarrassed. As a result, he just folded his arms and puffed hot air out of his nose.

"And there's that lovely tsundere personality, totally classic," Kimiko instigated bur in a non-antagonizing manner.

"Yeah, that's one thing you can always count on with his sparky ass," Akaro chuckled.

"Indeed, a quality that never gets old," Akame added while calmly sipping tea.

"Ya might as well be honest Raizo. You're as happy as I am!" Adena grinned.

"Hmph…I…I won't confirm or deny these things willingly, gosh…" Raizo huffs with slight irritation.

""""Tsundere,"""" the others state at the same time before another fit of chuckling.

Team AKARA enjoyed their time together like this for a little while but eventually they had to call it a night. Tomorrow was going to be the big day in which the family would come together to support Raizo in his effort to face his demons and confront the unfinished business he left with the Revolutionary Army. After helping to clean up after dinner, everyone went upstairs into different rooms for the night. Akaro and Akame slept together in one room, Kimiko had a room further down the hall to herself, Adena had a room just one door away from Raizo and the Stormbringer had his own room. With the sleeping arrangement made, Team AKARA sought to call it a night.

It was some time after midnight. Raizo lied on his bed half naked wearing only black, pajama bottoms while his torso was exposed. The youth stared at the familiar ceiling above trying to force himself into slumber but he just couldn't settle his nerves. He tried to listen to the rhythm of his own heartbeat but that sounded like a tribal beat more than a relaxing tone. All he could think about was the day that was to come and what he would say.

Am I really ready for this? Can I truly be absolved of my sins? Perhaps going back is a mistake…no, I can't run away now; not when I'm so close. I mustn't run away. I can't afford to.

The feeling of doubt tried its best to fill his mind but the Crimson Harbinger was not trying to allow his heart be swayed by such negative emotions. He felt himself dwell in such dark places for too long given recent events and he felt like the mental ridicule lasted for a lifetime or more. No, he wanted to be strong through the night and sleep peacefully but the latter was coming with difficulty. It was then that he heard a knock on the door. Caught off guard by this, the lightning user jumped out of bed then immediately walked to the door before swiftly opening it. The person there was a familiar redhead dressed in a dark blue night gown that showed a little skin mainly for the sake of comfort for the wearer to sleep in. Nonetheless, Raizo was surprised by the appearance.

"Adena?" he tilted his head in shock. The girl was scratching her head slightly with nervousness.

"Hey Raizo, sorry if you were sleeping at all. I just couldn't sleep so…"

"It's okay, I couldn't sleep either. Um…you want to come in?"

"Yeah sure, if you don't mind that is…"

The boy merely opened the door wide and began to walk back inside the room. The young woman let herself in before quietly shutting the door. She then followed the male and sat down on the bed beside him. Silence passed over them both before anything was exchanged.

"I'm nervous about tomorrow," Raizo whispered voicing his concern.

"I can understand that. You're heading into a place where you were essentially shunned. It's like a sheep walking into a den of predators," Adena replied placing a hand on Raizo's leg. She was shocked when the youth grabbed it gently but worried when she felt the subtle trembling.

"These people literally put me to death; they think I'm a traitor. Is it wrong for me to go back given that I escaped and all but showed how much of a vile person I can be?"

"No, it's not. In fact, I think you're being very brave right now. You could have easily said screw those guys and moved on with your life but you're choosing to set the record straight. You're choosing to confront people who chastised you in order to prove your innocence. I mean, you crossed the cosmos to get help in order to do so."

"Yeah…"

"Don't worry about it Raizo. You have me and the others by your side."

"Thanks Adena."

"Of course my love."

Raizo looked at her with a slightly stunned expression hearing her say that but the girl could only smile being sincere about it. With that, he felt like his chaotic world was just made to be peaceful at that point. Taking a deep breath, the youth felt his nerves settle. Now it was time to give sleep another try but…well his guest didn't seem to want to leave.

"If it's all right with you…can we sleep together?" Adena suddenly asked.

"Wait…what?" Raizo responded feeling his face get hot again.

"Not like that…I mean like…cuddle or something," she clarified.

"Oh…well…sure??"

Nodding in affirmation, Adena then climbed on the back side of Raizo's bed and patted the soft mattress. Raizo then climbed back on the bed and lied down beside her. Once doing that, she slid closer to him pressing her body gently against his. The boy could only tense up feeling her curvature against him but he tried to resist that feeling as much as possible. When she brought herself close to his person, he could feel her abnormally higher body heat but of course that was because of her powers. Regardless, Raizo didn't really complain about it. In fact, he enjoyed it. Adena wrapped her arms around him as she snuggled close.

"Good night, Raizo," she said lovingly.

"G…good night, Adena."

Despite the unexpected nature of the arrangement, the new couple would achieve a blissful sleep.

*****

Year 1025, 12th of November

Time: 1:00 P.M.

In the deep south of the land, the Revolutionary Army encampment has been busy doing much of the same thing as the Sapphire Phoenix. Even though the land was currently enjoying some semblance of peace, they still had to gather their forces to prepare for the imminent battles ahead. The Empire still held an iron fist of tyranny over the land but they were weak. Although they seem like an easy target now, there was no telling what they were doing in order to prepare for a final stand. In addition, the rebels still had the Sapphire Phoenix to contend with. Supplies also needed to be secured as well as the establishing routes to gather resources. Refugees from the recent conflict had been steadily making their way south so some forces had been devoted to helping them as well.

Among the rebel forces were the last members of Night Raid: Chelsea, Tatsumi, and Leone. Akame struck out on her own a few weeks ago after the Pandora War ended. None of her fellow comrades knew why she left but she made it sound urgent. Currently, the remaining members were present to keep an eye on the camp and protect the grounds from any unwanted visitors. Since Najenda's untimely death, Chelsea has been heading up the team as the leader and has also been given a position of power among the upper echelon within the military infrastructure of the rebellion especially since she had close ties with Team AKARA.

Though the girl welcomed the responsibility, she didn't do it without reluctance. She was qualified because of experience but she felt bad for it because the auburn haired girl felt like she was only qualified due to having a lack of combat efficacy. However, when the troops started to depend on her for leadership in some cases, doubts about her abilities within herself were dispelled. Tatsumi has been working with the soldiers by ensuring the able-bodied men had been training regularly as well as working with those who recovered from injuries. As for Leone, she just kept herself active with hunting and other menial activities appearing distant from time to time.

As the day began to wear on with the usual routine until something new occurred, the Red-Eyed Killer of this universe suddenly popped up in the encampment. She was walking around carrying her empowered Murasame blade when she saw the blonde assassin coming out of her tent. Leone was standing at the entrance stretching out when she witnessed the figure of her best friend coming up in the distance. Surprised, the woman ran up to the master swordswoman and hugged her tight without delay.

"Akame, I've missed you so much! Where on Earth have you been?" the feline warrior inquired as she let the female go. The emotionless killer yielded a small smile but quickly went back to her usual deadpan expression before answering.

"I've been around preparing myself for the promised time. Even though it's far away, I still have a job to do in the distant future," the black-haired woman replied with a philosophical tone but of course it goes over Leone's head.

"Whatever that's supposed to mean but I'm just glad to see you."

"It's nice to see you again as well Leone, but where are the others?"

"Tatsumi is training with the soldiers while Chelsea is probably off dealing with politics."

"I see…"

"What's wrong?"

"Nothing, it's just that…"

Before Akame could finish her sentence, a radiant flash of light blinded the entire area. Moments later, an alarm bell rings out as hundreds of guards start to move in response to a problem at one of the gates. Unsure of what exactly just happened, the two women looked to one another then proceeded to check out what exactly just happened. Soldiers were rushing from all over from low-ranking grunts to officers. Among them was Fujitora himself. The guards were up in arms about five silhouettes that were standing in a dust cloud where the beam of light came from as they didn't know if they were friend or foe.

MOMENTS BEFORE…

Team AKARA was geared up and ready to go. Raizo held the confidence needed to face his demons and put an end to the mistakes of the past that had been eating away at him. He was ready for a fresh start and with his family at his side; he knew he could get it done. Akaro reached out and patted him on the back.

"You ready for this lil' bro?" he asked him trying to ease the boy's nerves.

"Yeah, this is the day I've been waiting for," Raizo nodded in affirmation.

"Someone's sounding confident, that's good," Akame commented with an approving tone.

"Of course he's confident, he got snuggles with Addy all night," Kimiko swiftly added without any warning.

"K…Kimi-nee! Wh…what the hell?!" Raizo tensed with a blush stamped on his face.

"Welp, that didn't stay secret for long. Not like I was gonna deny it though," Adena shrugged casually.

"Oho, did you two…ya know…" Akaro inquired deviously.

"NO MORON! We…just….we just…" Raizo tried to answer but was too flustered for words.

"We just cuddled Big Bro, I'm being a good girl…for now," Adena answered in place of the Stormbringer.

"Well damn…I was listening out for…" Akaro was about to say but Akame elbowed him in the side.

"That's enough out of you. Remember, I can deny you any time," the black-haired mature swordswoman remarked.

"Babe…damn."

"Couples," Kimiko sighed while shaking her head.

"Anyways," Raizo coughed trying to get everyone back on track. It was then that the team's attention focused on him.

"We're going into semi-uncharted territory. I have no idea how Fujitora will respond to us in person so be ready for anything. Even with us being Team AKARA, that man has a way of using his ambition to twist the minds of those under him. Regardless, we're gonna put in him in his place today," the youth spoke firmly.

"Damn right, let's go put this filthy casual in his damn place," Akaro added.

"Six feet under right?" Adena asked pounding her fist in her hand.

"Addy, be a good girl now," Kimi calmly remarked.

"Sorry, had to make a little joke," the redhead responded.

"Everyone ready?" Akame asked. Nodding in unison, the five members disappeared into a beam of light before dropping down upon the rebel base a fraction of a second later.

PRESENT…

Team AKARA stood before the gate of the Revolutionary Army headquarters. In the distance they could see a large crowd gathering each of them armed with rifles aimed directly at them. It was to be expected given the entrance but when the dust cleared would be the real test of whether or not they were welcome there. Exhaling a brief puff of air, Akaro dissolved the cloud that was in their way. As the soldiers were in their full view and them within the view of the men and women at that gate, Raizo couldn't help but whistle.

"Well then, talk about having a welcoming committee," the former blood wolf remarked taking a few steps forward. The distance between the five heroes and this firing line was about fifty feet at the most. Seeing their faces sparked controversy among them as they were hesitant on what to do but just then, a masked officer stood in the middle with his hands behind his back. Although his appearance was veiled, his voice was heard clear as day when he began to speak.

"I was wondering where that awful dog smell was coming from at the front door. You just don't know when to stay dead do you, Raizo Arashi?" taunted the man showing his displeasure upon seeing the youth once again.

"What can I say? Death is quite literally my sensei," the Stormbringer spoke aloud with a deprecating tone against the man.

"Of course," he said shaking his head. Fujitora looked out and hardly paid attention to the others standing behind him. He didn't know who they were nor did he care but he felt like he recognized them in some small regard. However, he dismissed it.

"Too bad you and whatever riff raff you brought with you are about to pay for it because you had to come back. This time I'll make sure you stay dead. Men, take aim!"

"This again? You sure that's gonna work? I mean, you failed once already."

"Oh trust me," Fujitora chuckled as the hundreds of guards loaded their rifles and began to train their sights in the direction of the targets, "You only had a few men last time but a small platoon's worth of guns should do the trick!"

"You really like wasting ammo. Well, if you feel like it then knock yourself out."

Raizo turned his back and rejoined his family as he rolled his eyes in utter annoyance over Fujitora's terrible logic.

"Brace yourselves, the asshole is about to waste bullets," Raizo warned with sarcasm not even feeling threatened.

"Perhaps I could just shut them up just by stepping closer so they can see my face," Akame proposed.

"Well it's hard for some people to recognize you. After all, you're a mature woman and your counterpart in this world is still in her teens. Though the resemblance is uncanny, these guys are idiots Babe," Akaro explained.

"It amazes me how far human ignorance can go sometimes," Kimiko sighed heavily.

"Well, I guess we could stand here and be tickled," Adena chuckled while shaking her head.

"Yeah because they know that their penetration game isn't on point," regarded Akaro making a lewd joke.

"No wonder why there are hardly any women on that side," added Adena onto that joke. The pair then passed grins to each other before saying something simultaneously.

""What a bunch of quick shots.""

"Oh great, now they're sharing punch lines at the same time," Raizo complained.

"No offense my student but I'm glad we live in separate universes. I thought these jokes annoyed me when he was alone," Akame sighed.

"Now there are two of them…but both my ships have sailed so I'm satisfied," Kimiko nodded in approval.

"What do you mean Kimi-nee? We haven't visited any ports," the youth asked not grasping the lingo she was using.

"She's referring to couples, Raizo," the black-haired sensei stated.

"Oh…okay. Hey, Kimi-nee, d…don't talk about that, g..gosh!"

"And there's the lovely tsundere, classic," Kimiko smirked slightly.

Meanwhile in the distance, all of the soldiers were ready and awaiting the order. Fujitora lifts one arm up in the air then swings it downward giving everyone the sign to do it. It was in that next moment that hundreds of rifles sounded off in unison and rapid succession as wave after wave of flying projectiles were unleashed upon the five warriors. However, they were simply unimpressed by it. The bullets struck their bodies and bounced off dropping dead on the ground like annoying insects. After a solid 15 seconds, the bullets stopped flying but when everyone looked, they saw the five still standing there unaffected by it.

"Reload, then fire at will!" Fujitora shouted out in outrage over what he just saw.

"Yeah, this is taking too long," Akaro said from the other side of the field hearing that order. A few hundred shots were fired but the Red-Eyed Hero easily caught them all and blinked over to the other side appearing right in front of the officer and dropping the bullets at their feet. Witnessing this incredible feat, the soldiers instantly ceased their fire expressing astonishment over the appearance of the man.

"This is getting' really boring bud. Why don't you and your cronies here stand down and listen to what's about to happen 'kay?" Akaro proposed peering into the eyes of the sinister officer. Realizing that he was not able to stand up to this man, he made a motion giving the soldiers the order to stand down. Witnessing this, Akaro stepped back a bit before turning and waving the rest of the team to come over.

In the meantime, two figures maneuvered through the crowd. Leone and Akame were able to at last check out what was going on and who caused the disturbance. The Red-Eyed Killer of this universe saw the red scarf of the man before dashing over to him not caring about who was watching and instantaneously latches her arms around him giving him a hug. Akaro gave a slight chuckle of surprise but nevertheless hugged her back as well. Leone was stunned to see the man here but she knew that if he was here, a certain someone else wasn't too far behind.

Raizo then approached with the rest of Team AKARA behind him. The Crimson Harbinger's gaze locked with that of the emerald hues belonging to Fujitora. No words of respect or admiration passed between them but glares of disdain for one another. Unaffected by those around him, the Stormbringer got straight to the point.

"We have business to settle. Gather up whoever you need to gather for a trial because this time, you won't have your way."

"You really think the outcome will be the same? Now you have to deal with the consequences of being a war criminal since you escaped your death sentence. The same verdict will be handed down but I'll just have to find a way for you to stay dead," the arrogant officer scoffed.

"We'll see about that," Raizo grinned fiercely. Fujitora merely turned and walked away heading back into the encampment escorted by guards. In the growing distance, one could see him giving orders as he was setting the proper procedures in motion for this trial phase once again. As the crowd of soldiers slowly began to disperse in order to return to regular duties, the new visitors walked onto the premises. With the commotion, Tatsumi and Chelsea arrive to the scene late but they see the five faces of the heroes that saved this world and join in with the reunion; especially since Raizo was present. However, there was a touching moment currently in progress.

"You're back already? My feeling about your return turned out to be true," the younger Akame spoke still misty-eyed upon seeing the man she truly loved before her.

"Heh, yeah and I can sense some serious power growing within you," Akaro spoke with pride over the fact.

"Indeed, but what you all doing here?" she inquired. It was then that the rest of the legendary red kings gathered around her in this conversation. Being responsible, the Stormbringer spoke up.

"They're here on my personal request," the young man explained. The younger swordswoman turned her attention to the man she once fought alongside of. She examined him seeing all the different armaments on him including the mysterious black gauntlet on his left arm. Though his appearance was relatively the same as when she last saw minus the fancy equipment, there was something different about him.

"Raizo, you…feel different," she spoke with a hint of caution.

"It's a long story…but given your connection with Aka-sensei, I'm sure you'll see it at some point," he responded.

"I suppose but still, there's something that has changed you."

"A lot of things have for me, which is why there is one thing I absolutely have to settle before I can truly move on."

Nodding in regards to this sentiment, the girl then turned her attention to the taller redheaded female among them. Adena looked at her as well as the two seemed to have some sort of understanding between them.

"So you've chosen the path you wish to follow then?" the younger Red-Eyed Killer asked.

"Indeed I have. Though I still have my affairs to settle with the Sapphire Phoenix at some point, my priorities lie with this family no matter what," the Scarlet Beast declared.

Raizo's attention suddenly wandered as his eyes happened to land on Leone and the other two remaining members of Night Raid. The boy feels a strong twinge in his chest like something grabbed his heart but that was just nerves. He had to face this as well. Those around the youth saw the trio approach as it seemed like the mood was just halted for a moment. The Stormbringer gave a non-verbal expression using his eyes as if telling them: Let me handle it

"Hey," Raizo spoke giving an anxious greeting to his former comrades. Leone folded her arms and lifted an eyebrow.

"Hey? Is that really all you have to say considering what happened when we last spoke? What gives you the right to show your face around here?" the blonde began to rant.

"Let's see…free will and the support of my family for starters," Raizo remarked with a tone of sarcasm.

"Oh look at who's the smartass now. You've got some serious nerve showing up here kid."

"Leone…"

"No, don't go there with me. I thought I made it clear when we parted ways weeks ago that you're dead to us. So tell me why on Earth do you think is it okay for you to be here now?" she tilted her head in a demanding manner. It was then that Leone saw Adena in the background and remembered her face as the one she fought once before.

"Also, why did you bring that bitch here with you? What the fuck? Are you trying to show how much of a traitor you are by bringing some new slut here?"

"Did she just…" Adena began to say before cutting herself off feeling a surge of anger well up in her.

"Well, this just got interesting," Kimiko said crossing her arms.

"Oh boy…there's about to be a fight," Akaro quietly chuckled watching the triggered redhead march over towards her. The Akame twins both elbowed the man at the same time.

"Looks like you didn't learn from the last time we fought just who's the alpha female around here. I don't mind beating your ass again then burning you to a fucking crisp, you disgusting, rapist whore," Adena seethed with fury as an aura of scarlet flames began to circle around her body when she approached the target in her sights.

"Rapist? Who are you calling a rapist you manipulating bitch? Let's go another round so I can tear you in half!" Leone yelled out as she transformed into her lion state itching for a fight. The flame warrior balled up her fists while the blonde seemed like her claws and fangs sharpened at once but then two hands appeared on either side each blocking their advance with the heterochromia youth in the middle sparking with electricity.

"THAT'S ENOUGH!" he shouted as the resulting cry echoed out like thunder. Instantly, the soldiers on the field stopped moving being chilled with fear while the members of Night Raid and Team AKARA stared at Raizo with surprise. The Crimson Harbinger took a deep breath to calm himself before turning his attention to his new female companion.

"Adena, calm down I can handle this," he advised.

"Tch…fine," the young woman sighed heavily as her flames seemed to fade away. Leone backed down as well but couldn't help to comment.

"Under control? Yeah…you really have a good job at that," she spoke coldly. It was then that Chelsea and Tatsumi decided to include their opinions even though they were silent this whole time.

"Define under control?" Chelsea asked in a condescending tone.

"And why the hell should any of us be calm right now?" the Incursio successor questioned rhetorically trying to cast a chastising tone as well. It was then that the youth in question began to grit his teeth feeling his temper coming on but he had to keep his composure. Bad enough they were attracting extra attention with the soldiers walking around so he had to hold back a bit with his reply yet get the message across.

"Well if you'd shut the fuck up for five goddamn minutes, you'd be able to learn something," the Stormbringer responded despite Tatsumi not expecting an answer. The youth took a brief moment to slow down his heart rate so that he would calm down before he would go on with what he needed to say.

"Now then, I will not deny that I own you all an apology; however, now isn't the time for it. There's a trial that I left unfinished and a responsibility I have to take for it. Besides restoring my reputation, the outcome of this trial will be to the benefit of everyone fighting in this rebellion and will hopefully make the war effort easier for you all. There's a lot that needs to be done and not a lot of time to do it so for the meantime, all I ask is that you guys just listen to what I have to say in that courtroom."

Being rendered speechless, Night Raid unanimously agrees. The two groups achieve a peace for now and make their way towards the makeshift area serving as the courthouse for yet another trial where Raizo hopes that justice will be properly served.

Time: 2:00 P.M.

Once again Raizo found himself inside the courtroom where trials were held within the Revolutionary Army. Since the last time, the grounds actually managed to build a relatively spacious cabin for these sorts of proceedings although the room was arranged much like the last time. About two hundred personnel were in attendance behind the court area. On the left side was the jury, the trio of three judges in the front, Fujitora in the prosecutor's pulpit while Raizo was on the defense side. This time in the stands on his side were the remaining members of Team AKARA along with the Akame of this universe. There were whispers in the audience about how the two women looked alike but no one guessed it. Soon the gavel struck the wooden plate calling order in the court and the trial began once more.

"Your Honor and honorable delegates of the jury, this is a complete waste of your time and the resources of this army. We already know that Raizo Arashi is a traitor therefore, the prosecution still wishes to proceed to the guilty verdict for not only that crime of treason but for also being a war criminal!" Fujitora began with his opening statement but the judges maintained their position of being neutral.

"Though the prosecution has a point, the accused party has stepped forward and requested a retrial. In addition, given his status as a member of the five heroes who saved this land from a threat that was on a scale that none of us were prepared for fighting, he has earned his chance to speak on his behalf," spoke one of the three judges motioning Raizo to go ahead with his statement.

"Thank you, Your Honor. I'd like to begin by addressing why I am called a traitor for those who are present here today and do not realize what is going on or may have forgotten since the last time I was present among you. So with that in mind, what did I do? Pursue a personal vendetta which eventually led to my capture by the Empire? Yes, I did do that but I was able to take down one of the two strongest generals the Capital had to throw at us. Kill an entire division of enemy troops during a time of a ceasefire order? Yes, I did do it. They were the regiment that raided my clan's village but what no one knew was that they were marching on vital supply lines to this army and would have crippled the resources needed to keep the war effort going. I may have done things in ways that were not always approved but I always tried my best to fulfill my role. However, what annoys me the most is how ignorant this army has been about major events.

Let's start with the first great shift in our world, The God's Tear. Now when it happened, the shift in power was so great that it couldn't be properly explained and well it didn't affect many people at a time. It could have if the force at play was left unchecked but casualties were thankfully kept to a minimum so the truth of it was obscured ultimately to preserve the integrity of our universe. Then the Pandora War occurred and those safeguards were destroyed," Raizo explained first.

The crowd was left to marinate on this thinking about all the strange occurrences that happened after these two incidents. The rules of engagement did indeed change and people who surpassed the logical boundaries of conventional teigu users appeared. That much was clear when the Sapphire Phoenix emerged and was only accentuated by the Pandora Conflict. All of the factors were there but of course, Fujitora had to speak against this.

"You say that these two major incidents caused such a major change to our world but isn't it then safe to say that if it wasn't for your very being that these incidents never would have occurred? From what I can pull from a report given to us by Najenda about the showdown in the Capital, the God's Tear incident didn't happen until after you obtained your trump card. So maybe your power is just a beacon for unwanted problems no?" Fujitora proposed.

This shook the Stormbringer for a moment. Considering that he was only half human and half something else was it really because of his power that forces beyond mankind's control threatened their very livelihood? He turned his eyes towards his family. They all sat there staring back as if telling him not to give up or let the words of that bastard tear him down. It was then that Raizo felt a sharp pain in his chest and time seemed to slow down. He felt something coming, a presence that was familiar to him yet foreign to this world as well. He felt a shock race up his spine and a surge of an electrical force similar to his own rapidly approaching.

Can it really be?

He thought to himself but that doubt was dispelled when a white-colored lightning bolt burst into the room in the middle of the court. In that next moment, everyone shielded their faces from the blinding light as a myriad of cries leaked out filling the entire room. The light flickered within the room for a moment but eventually subsided as a new presence was present. As everyone turned to look, the new presence had long, white hair and rose-colored eyes. The right side of the room immediately recognized who she was, especially Adena who felt that thump in her chest once more. Raizo's back burned a bit due to the fact that two users of the same teigu were in the same room but unlike before, the boy was calm.

"Who the hell is this?!" Fujitora yelled in outrage while the rest of the courtroom began to speak. The girl turned around and saw the male Stormbringer only yielding a small smile but she couldn't hide the pain in her eyes.

"Vesta…" Raizo called out but the girl could only nod.

"Hello Raizo-san, I thought I'd come to help," the girl explained still not shaking the sadness within her. The female Stormbringer turned her attention to the court before speaking up.

"I've come to speak on behalf of Raizo Arashi," she began.

"Who might you be?" one of the judges inquired.

"My name is Vesta Arashi. I am the bearer of Indra's Judgment in a different universe. For the ease of argument, you could say that I am Raizo's sister."

The room stirs once again before one of the judges strikes the gavel to call order in the court. They merely nod giving the girl permission to speak.

"I have come to this universe to testify on behalf of my brother. He is a good man who does not deserve to be chastised over events that took place initially because of my own actions. You see, I am the force that caused the events of the God's Tear incident. I came to this world to kill Raizo and take his power for myself causing the destruction in the past," she explained.

A series of gasps were emitted from the audience and all officials present. The Crimson Harbinger shook his head in disbelief unsure of what the Godspeed was trying to do. Why was she trying to take the blame for something that she had no control over? He didn't understand it. He knew that there was good in her and if it wasn't for her help then a lot of people would have died during that last war.

"Well that settles things. Guards, arrest the girl then. We can execute her then get Raizo another time," Fujitora swiftly ordered ignoring the procedure of things. Just as soldiers felt it appropriate to move in, the members of Team AKARA began to move but quickly stopped. A violent swarm of electricity spiraled around Raizo as he stepped forward not caring about respect for the courtroom right now.

"Anybody who dares to lay a finger on this girl will have to answer to me. Especially since this trial isn't anywhere near over," he spoke with fury tinging his voice. Vesta looked at Raizo as if to wonder why he would go so far for her especially after all she did to him and his world but he merely patted her on the head trying to ease her worries.

"For the record, Vesta was not in control of her actions when she attacked this world. Though she does recall the events vividly, she could not control her impulses. In fact, she also helped me save thousands of people in the Capital during the Pandora War and saved my own life in the process. We've had our differences yes but we have come to an understanding. I will not stand for a court that will be so quick to execute someone just because of them making a confession under duress."

"Motion accepted. Guards stand down. Vesta Arashi is not to be touched and no one is allowed to move on anyone within the defendant's group until this trial is over," another judge decreed while yielding a chastising look at Fujitora.

"The Prosecution would like to call into question this whole idea of other universes when it could just be smoke and mirrors with parlor tricks meant to deceive humanity. I mean, are there really other universes out there?" the egotistical man called out.

"Sure there is. The Defense calls Akame to testify…both of them," Raizo spoke. It was then that two females with red eyes and long, black hair stood up and made their way towards the bench. The Stormbringer tapped Vesta's shoulder suggesting that she take a seat while he handled this.

"Raizo, you really don't have to do all of this for me," she mumbled to him but he shook his head.

"I appreciate the gesture but no one is dying on me today. That includes you. Go ahead and take a seat. I'm gonna win this thing," he replied back. As the twins stepped forward, Vesta went to take a seat in the stands. Both swordswomen stood before the court. Although one had more mature features than the other and was taller, they were still identical in many regards.

"Now then, the Akame on your left is the assassin from Night Raid of this universe. You can tell by the trademark outfit that she is known to wear among us. The Akame on your right comes from an alternate universe where the Earth is currently in the year 2025. Now, there aren't many people in this world that have red eyes and black hair. The only ones who do are all currently in this room on my side of the courtroom. Now as for beings with ridiculous godlike power, you saw how Vesta arrived and you've also seen my own power. In addition, my confidants that are supporting comprise the team that saved this world from annihilation: Team AKARA. Does anyone still think I'm lying?" Raizo explained.

"P…Please, you're clearly just using make-up here. I mean really?" Fujitora tried to counter argue.

"The Prosecution still seeks to discredit me when I've been providing evidence in regard to every statement I've made today. There is even living proof right before everyone in this courtroom. Honorable members of the court, I find my opponent's argument to be rather absurd at this point. Though I do believe he is only doing it to cover his own misgivings."

"What do you mean Raizo?" a judge inquired.

"Well, Fujitora has been attempting to tear me down since the moment I even aligned with the Revolutionary Army. At first, I just thought it was because of my attitude but then I recalled this man's history with my clan only to find out that he is indeed the real traitor. Has no one figured out that he was the man who orchestrated the demise of the Blood Wolves? Or was he so good at being a spy for the Empire that no one knew the wiser?"

A deathly silence washed over the courtroom as all eyes immediately turned to the masked officer who was being accused.

"H…He's lying clearly! Don't buy into it!" the man panicked.

"As you can see, he defaults back to his initial argument. I'm giving my best to be honest here for the sake of my own honor and redeeming myself in the eyes of everyone present…why would I jeopardize that by lying?" Raizo counted. He turned his gaze towards Kimiko giving her a slight nod. Knowing what the boy wanted, she stood up and snapped her fingers. The two Akame women stepped away from the bench and made their way from the stands. From a portal appeared Aquilo as he was dropped into a seat. The man was scarred all over still and barely breathing but fully conscious.

"Forgive me for the rude intrusion but this man is none other than Aquilo of the Imperial Army. His wounds were caused from our battle that we had fought and he revealed to me an interesting fact about Fujitora. Silver Fox, would you please muster the strength to identify the person that helped you wipe our clan out 6 years ago?"

Aquilo nodded compliantly. He didn't care what happened to him after this moment given how much pain he was in. The Silver Fox just wanted to die. He wanted out as soon as he could but he was kept alive for this moment. Hopefully after this, he would be granted the death he craved. Lifting his arm, he pointed at Fujitora before borderline falling over.

"Nonsense! Any man could be coerced into saying something when close to death. Where is the proof?!" the guilty officer yelled out. Raizo then walked over to his brother who handed him those letters.

"Oh and here are even more documents," the Red-Eyed Hero said aloud before pulling out more pieces of paper from his pocket. Fujitora didn't realize that Akaro summoned the letters he burned. With those items in hand, Raizo handed them over to the three judges and awaited their judgment. During this time, the Stormbringer delivered his last statement.

"I'm not going to stand here and try to say that I am without sin because I'm not. I have my fair share of blood on my hands from enemies and even some allies. I've hurt a lot of people and made mistakes that cost me dearly. All I can do is stand here and say that I apologize. You can blame me or even hate me for the decisions I've made but I will not stand by and let myself take the fall for things I've never done in my life. I will not be a scapegoat for another's misgivings. I came here to seek justice and redemption; I just hope that I communicated my sincerity on this matter," he spoke before ending his statement.

The judges take a few minutes to deliberate and await the jury's opinion. When all of these were gathered, the ruling was made.

"The jury and this court finds Raizo Arashi innocent of all charges and rescinds and redacts any documentation incriminating the party in question. As for Fujitora, for high treason, espionage, conspiracy to commit high treason, as well as mass genocide and war crimes, he is stripped of all rank and sentenced to be executed. Aquilo, the Silver Fox will also be executed for being a war criminal as well. This court is adjourned. Guards, please take both men away and hold them until their execution."

As the trial draws to a close, the members of Night Raid, Team AKARA and Vesta Arashi gather outside. They talk with one another about the next step now that this is all behind them and what will happen next and such. Fujitora and Aquilo were definitely assured to die as indicated by the court's decision. Now being cleared, Raizo was a free man and it was going to be known everywhere soon enough.

"I'm sorry Raizo for judging you so harshly," Tatsumi bowed.

"As am I, please forgive me for being angry," Chelsea soon followed.

"I apologize too for calling you a traitor and stuff," Leone said reluctantly. Raizo's family simply watched as the events unfolded.

"It's okay guys. You were all hurt and I apologize for my own actions in the past and the decisions I made that affected you guys the most," the Stormbringer responded.

"What's going to happen now? You can come back to Night Raid fight on our side again right?" Chelsea asked.

"Yeah, we need you man!" Tatsumi agreed while Leone merely stayed silent.

"I would but…I have my own business to take care of. To a degree, Fujitora has a point. Danger of a grand scale has a habit of picking me off so I can't let you guys get involved in my mess. I have to protect our world in my own way with my own power. Chelsea, they will probably look to you now more than ever for leadership so promise me you'll keep the south free from anyone's control okay? Make it a safe haven for the people that are trying to flee from the war zone," Raizo stated.

"I understand Raizo. But wherever you go, try to come back and visit sometime okay?" the lollipop lover requested.

"I will. And Tatsumi, be sure to protect Chelsea alright? She's gonna need you too."

The brunette boy merely nodded. Leone still looked like she had something to say so Raizo pulled her off to the side so she could say it privately. Meanwhile, everyone was breaking into conversations among each other.

"So…" Leone said looking down while Raizo merely stood there waiting for her to say something.

"I can't find myself saying sorry for calling you selfish. You really did just push me away," she began.

"I don't expect you to. In fact…let's be honest Leone, it's for the best," he replied plainly.

"What are you talking about? You know how hard it is for me to just let you go and crap?"

"It may be hard for you but…it's not hard for me. Especially since I let you go a long time ago. How are you going to try and justify any feeling you had for me when you basically forced yourself upon me?"

"I…"

"Save it Leone, we both know I'm right. You took advantage of a moment of weakness on my part and used me for your sexual purposes. You didn't love me, you never did. I was just your toy. Yeah, you made me feel some emotions but I was in the illusion of love with you…not genuinely in love with you. I mean, being in love with the woman who raped me? That sounds like some awkwardly twisted book. I was just a sex toy for you and you just got mad that I was not paying attention to you anymore. So go ahead, hate me for the rest of your life but I moved on. Good luck, Leone. That's all I have to say to you. And thanks for teaching me a lesson about conniving people. But I forgive you, not for your sake but for my own."

The Red-Eyed Stormbringer walked away leaving the woman to stand there completely silent. He spoke his heart and did not think twice about looking back. Was there any hatred lingering inside him? No, not at all for he was able to attain his closure that he needed in order to get on with his life. It's something that he longed for but was never able to truly get. Now he could truly close the book that contained the Revolutionary Army and Night Raid in his life and move on to bigger ventures.

Around that time, Akaro and the two Akames were speaking to each other in a group conversation. The Akame of this universe was concerned about the Bleeding Effect and how it would affect her now but the two visitors assured her that she would be okay. If anything was to happen, she should trust in her instincts as well as believe in the bond that connected her with her older counterpart as well as her tie with Akaro if she needed anything.

With Adena, she found herself confronting Vesta for the first time since the Pandora War. It was weird for them both since they had a bit of an elephant in the room over a thing or two. Yes, the complications in relationships were finally going to get real.

"So…I had sex with Raizo," Vesta spoke with a bit of awkwardness in her tone.

"I know…he told me. I told him that we kissed," Adena replied.

"I see…"

"Yeah…but we're dating now nevertheless."

"Well, that's good. I hope it works out for you two."

"Thanks. So like…you two aren't gonna…do it again if you're around each other right?"

"I…can't say. I mean, you're drawn to me and I am to you because of my connection to your alternate self in my timeline. Then you have that same connection with Raizo and then I'm drawn to him. It…it's so weird."

"Yeah tell me about it…"

As the two girls talked, Raizo walked up to them taking a deep breath.

"You okay love?" Adena asked hugging his arm.

"Yeah, I feel good now. I feel relieved honestly, like an entire weight was taken off my shoulders," he replied.

"Well that's good, Raizo-san," Vesta nodded hugging the boy from the other side.

"Um…what are you two doing?" the boy asked quickly feeling himself blush.

"I'm hugging you obviously. Vesta, what are you doing?" Adena asked the white-haired female.

"I'm also hugging Raizo-san. He's been through a lot so yeah."

"This is seriously awkward for me right now," the Crimson Harbinger sighed.

""Let's make it less awkward.""

It was then that both girls kissed him on his cheek on both sides at once which made Raizo feel like his heart stopped beating in his chest.

"Hey, what the hell are ya doin' to my man Vesta?" Adena asked gritting her teeth.

"Giving him a thank you kiss for sticking up for me, besides we Stormbringers have a bond you know!" Vesta countered.

"He only needs one onee-san in his life and that's me."

"Well he might just have two because if I come around and my battery needs to be recharged…"

"Oh hell no you didn't…"

"What's the matter? Jealous that you haven't gotten any yet?!"

"Raizo, let's go back to that one place and have some fun. Okay? You only need your lovely Adena."

"No Raizo, come with me. We can have that massively faster than light lovin' like last time."

"Both of you need to seriously calm down right now…come on what the hell is this?! I…idiots!" the boy complained while embarrassed.

"That tsundere is so strong," Kimi sighed while watching him.

"Guys, let's just go okay?" Raizo suggested.

It was then Team AKARA gathered together along with the younger Akame and Vesta and blasted off in crimson light leaving the Revolutionary Army behind.

*****

Time: 4:00 P.M.

Raizo, Adena, Akaro, Kimiko, Vesta, and both Akames were gathered together at the freshly restored hideout after a long day. Before everyone would part ways, the Stormbringer wanted everyone to come with him for a moment up the mountain near the base. When they all gathered, there was a place that held different graves for all the members of Night Raid that died. The former blood wolf stepped forward as he saw the graves of Mein, Susanoo, and Rabac. Alongside them, there were the graves of Sheele and Bulat in this timeline. He only knew of their faces from the Shatterpoint timeline but he felt like they were good comrades to have in this world. In addition, one more grave was there as well that had been marked for Najenda.

They must have come back here in secret to bury her remains.

Silence passed over the mountain as the wind blew in the sky. The youth looked around for a big stone, any stone that would be suitable. He just needed something to fulfill a purpose. Finding one, he picked it up and set it along the line of stones there. Those behind him merely watched unsure of what he was doing.

"Adena, do you have my broken blades on you?" he asked. The redheaded female reached in her satchel waiting for the boy to say something about it. After all, she promised to hold onto them for him until he needed them again. As she passed them over, the youth dug a small hole and placed them inside before moving the dirt over them. When he stood back up, he stepped back a bit. He thrust one hand out and bolts of lightning came out. The others still watched and waited to see what exactly he was doing. Currently, he was writing something.

"Done," he said before kneeling down before the grave.

Anata no Tatakai wa Owatta [Your Fight Is Over]…

The boy clasped his hands saying that small prayer of remembrance in recognition of someone who had served their purpose and died an honorable death. It was a way of respect for those lost that was universally shared in the Conclave but was mainly kept as a Blood Wolf tradition. On the stone, it read the following:

"May Your Blades Find Peace

Raizo Arashi, Last of the Blood Wolves."

The group could also see what that stone said. He held his head down feeling a small trickle of sadness sink in his heart but he mostly felt a release. As a line in a chant of his stated, his chains were broken and now he finally felt free.

"Are you okay?" Vesta asked knowing what it's like to say goodbye to a piece of yourself, especially when you have to let go of something that you held onto in order to move on.

"Yeah, I'm fine. I just needed to formerly bury the old me that's dead and gone. It's about time I live my life anew now more than ever," he stated.

"You know you're still Raizo Arashi though."

"I know that. I always will be but my life as Raizo Arashi has changed…the definition of who that person was has served its purpose which is why I laid him to rest. Now it's time for me to begin my life as Raizo Mercer."

"Now that sounds like a plan. Hate to interrupt a moment but I need to talk to you real quick lil' bro," Akaro interrupted. The two brothers step away for a moment leaving the women behind.

"Listen, I'm glad you managed to find your peace with yourself but I need your help."

"Of course Aniki, what's going on?"

"It's the Architect; he's coming after Kimiko…"

"When do we start?"