Blood-Soaked Rain: Yhwach's Grim Discovery in the Capital

Capital Location - Tea Shop

Esdeath: Unexpected meeting, isn't it?

Yhwach: Odd coincidence, considering we crossed paths here before... right before our clash.

Esdeath: Clash? I'd call it more of a petty squabble.

A silence enveloped them until Esdeath broke it.

Esdeath: You know, I've yet to witness you truly fight.

Yhwach: The feeling is mutual.

Esdeath smirked, her eyes gleaming with a hint of mischief.

Esdeath: How about we change that? A little spar to break the monotony of the day.

Yhwach raised an eyebrow, considering the proposition. He wasn't one to back down from a challenge.

Yhwach: A spar, here and now?

Esdeath: Why not? The tea shop can serve as our arena, and the patrons can enjoy a unique show.

Yhwach leaned back in his chair, a calm demeanor in contrast to Esdeath's eagerness for a fight.

Yhwach: Esdeath, as tempting as a spar might be, I came here to enjoy some moments of tranquility. Tea, not combat, is my priority at the moment.

Esdeath's expression shifted from mischief to slight disappointment, but she couldn't hide a smirk.

Esdeath: Tea over a good fight? You're a peculiar one, Yhwach.

Yhwach nodded, taking a sip from his cup.

Yhwach: Sometimes, a moment of peace is more precious than a battle. I'm here to appreciate the simple pleasures.

As Yhwach enjoyed the last sips of his tea, Esdeath couldn't resist a playful grin.

Esdeath: Well, since you're so insistent on tea over a thrilling fight, we might as well enjoy some conversation.

Yhwach acknowledged her with a subtle nod, setting his cup down.

Yhwach: Conversation can be as enlightening as combat, in its own way.

Esdeath leaned forward, a curious gleam in her eyes.

Esdeath: You're a mysterious one, Yhwach. There's a lot about you I'd like to uncover.

Yhwach maintained his composed demeanor.

Yhwach: Perhaps one day, our paths will cross under different circumstances, and you'll learn more than you expected.

As Yhwach finished his tea, he stood up, expressing his intention to leave.

Yhwach: It's been a pleasant diversion, Esdeath, but I believe it's time for me to take my leave.

Esdeath, however, wasn't ready to part ways just yet.

Esdeath: Wait, Yhwach. Before you go, have you ever considered joining the Jaegers?

Yhwach turned to face her, a hint of surprise in his eyes.

Yhwach: Join the Jaegers?

Esdeath nodded, her gaze unwavering.

Esdeath: You're strong, skilled, and, believe it or not, I enjoy our conversations. You'd make a valuable addition to the Jaegers.

Yhwach paused, contemplating her proposition.

Yhwach: I appreciate the offer, Esdeath, but I have my own responsibilities to attend to. I have a path to follow.

Esdeath leaned back in her chair, a mix of disappointment and understanding in her expression.

Esdeath: Well, if your path ever leads you to us, you're welcome to join. I believe we could accomplish great things together.

Yhwach inclined his head in gratitude.

Yhwach: I'll keep that in mind. Farewell, Esdeath.

Esdeath's tone carried a sense of melancholy as she replied.

Esdeath: Until we meet again, Yhwach. May your path be as intriguing as our conversations.

With those parting words, Yhwach left the tea shop.

Yhwach: ( In thought ) I shall deliver justice to this world. If that entails your demise, then so be it.

Timeskip - Jaegers Base

The Jaegers are seen exiting the capital gates while riding horses. As they were leaving, two spies were hiding in a bush, watching their every move.

Spy 1: It's the Jaegers! All six are headed east!

He said as a falcon was resting on his shoulder.

Spy 2: It's all going according to Najenda's plan!

He said as he wrote a letter and handed it to the other scout.

The first spy took the letter and gave it to the falcon.

Spy 1: I'm counting on you. Take this message to Night Raid.

He said as the falcon took off in the sky. 

Spy 1: (In thought ) Assassinating a religious leader and doing battle against the Jaegers... Regardless of their manpower, it's a treacherous mission. But you must survive, Night Raid! We need your power to cleanse this depraved world.

Timeskip - A cliff in the east hanging over a small beach

Najenda: Six, huh? So all the Jaegers are on the move.

She said as the read the letter.

Najenda: Judging by Esdeath's speed, the soonest they could arrive is past noon tomorrow, even if they head straight for our location.

She said as the falcon took off in the sky again.

Najenda stood up off her chair and looked towards Akame and Mine who were wearing bikini's.

Najenda: That was a message from the Revolutionary Army's spies. You two are to attract attention as we planned.

Akame and Mine: Roger that.

They both said it simultaneously.

On the bottom of the cliff was a small beach where the rest of the team was hanging out. All of the girls were wearing bikini's while the guys were in their swimming trunks. Sheele, Leone, Chelsea, and Bulat were in the water having fun together while Tatsumi, Lubbock, Susanoo were on the shore.

2 hours later - In a small town in the Capitol

The Jaegers were currently in the Capitol, unable to find Night Raid in their search. The team of assassins were near a giant water fountain and some nearby local stores. All of the members except Wave had an ice cream of their desire. Kurome had Chocolate Chip (obviously), Seryu had Vanilla with strawberries on top, Run had Peanut Butter, Bols had Neapolitan, and Esdeath had Strawberry.

Esdeath: Najenda is continuing east. Akame is headed south. In this area is where they were seen splitting in two groups. If we go east, we'll end up in Kyoroch, the Path of Peace's headquarters. If we go south, we'll run into cities sympathetic to the rebels. Their activity is suspicious either way.

She said while crossing her arms and her head down.

Wave: Then if we leave now, we can catch up to them. Let's go!

Wave said enthusiastically, about to march off into the distance with his head high and weapon in the air.

Esdeath: Hold on, Wave. Night Raid are enemies of the state. The wanted posters haven't been circulated this far out yet, so they lowered their guard, and that's how they were sighted. And they were seen splitting up. Doesn't that sound a little too convenient?

She questioned.

Run nodded his head.

Run: I agree. It's very likely to be a trap. Perhaps they wanted to be seen.

He concluded.

Seryu: Maybe they want to lure us from the Capitol and defeat us.

Esdeath: That's exactly what Najenda wants. She fights calmly, but her heart is filled with fervor.

Wave: So then following them would be dangerous. Maybe we should bail on this one-

Esdeath: No. We can't let this opportunity go to waist. Night Raid's been careful to conceal themselves all this time, but now, they're practically showing themselves off in front of us. Not only will we be prepared for the trap, but we will defeat them utterly. Seryu, Run, and I will pursue Najenda. Kurome, Wave and Bols will go after Akame. Be aware of your surroundings at all times, because Yhwach is with them. Avoid him at all costs. He's NOT to be meddled with. And remember that there's no shame in retreating if you're hopelessly outnumbered or outpowered. I want you to give it you're all. They're the last remaining rats that defy the Capitol. Chase them down, and exterminate them!

Everyone else: Yes, ma'am!

An hour later, with Kurome, Wave and Bols

One of the groups of the Jaegers were headed south, headed towards where Akame's group were supposedly at. The group was composed of Wave, Kurome, and Bols. All three were riding horses in a small dried up canyon. Kurome was up ahead while Bols and Wave were behind her.

Bols: So, our opponents are the most powerful assassins in the empire, Night Raid. I wonder if someone like me can win.

He contemplated it out loud.

Wave: We also have to worry about Yhwach. But as long as we avoid him, we'll be fine. I encountered a Night Raid Member earlier, and he refused my challenge to battle. But I could tell that he was as strong as me.

Bols: .....I see.

Wave: Bols, your Teigu is excellent for taking out multiple opponents. I'm sure that if we work together we can win.

He assured Bols.

Bols: Are you sure?

Kurome laughed.

Kurome: You're good at saying what people want to hear, but you'll probably hold us back the most, Wave.

She said while smirking devilishly.

Wave: WHAAAAAAT?!?! Are you saying you don't trust my skills?!?!

He said, shocked.

Kurome: That's right. I feel like you'll buckle when we'll need you the most.

Wave: Huh?! I'll GLADLY show you what I'm capable of when I wipe that smirk off your face!-

Bols: Now is not the time to fight.

He said, gaining both of their attention.

Wave and Kurome looked at him. He pointed ahead of them to show they were approaching something. When they got closer, they saw a buff scarecrow with a straw hat and a balloon for a face. "Hot Guy" was written on his chest. All of them were unimpressed.

Kurome: ....Are you serious?

Wave: This is the stupidest thing ever.

Bols: It's a trap.

Wave: It's a trap.

Kurome: Definitely a trap

The group got off their horses and made their way towards the scarecrow, preparing themselves for whatever came their way.

Timeskip

Bols: WAVE!!

He cried out.

Wave hit the ground with a thump, seemingly out cold. Bols went to check on him, but then a voice called out.

Najenda: It seems our sniper has failed. But in terms of battle strategy?...heh...well...

Bols and Kurome turned around, seeing Najenda, Akame, Chelsea, Leone, Sheele, Mine, and Tatsumi standing in front of them.

Najenda: Removing a combatant that we don't need to fight puts us to an advantage. Don't you think?

Bols: (In thought ) It's Night Raid! But what's more concerning is that Najenda is also here. So their eastern party was just a red hearing...which means that....oh no..

Najenda: Kurome and Bols. You two are our main targets concerning the Jaegers. Come with us quietly or we'll use force.

Bols: (In thought ) Targets?....It makes sense. I've incinerated countless numbers of people in the past, so it's understandable that I'd be targeted by assassins....but.....I need to live on....for my wife...for my daughter....No! I won't die here!

Meanwhile, Kurome and Akame were standing in front of each other. Each one basically staring into each others soul. It was tense. Unsettling. Each one ready to slash each others throats whenever they get the chance.

Kurome: ..Sis...

Akame: ...Kurome...

Kurome: ...I missed you so much, isn't this great? You see, now I can kill you.

She said as she drew out her sword, causing Akame to do the same.

A devilish smirk grew more and more on Kurome's face. To say the least, it was terrifying.

Kurome: You'll make a nice addition to my collection!

Kurome lifted her sword up high, making a little purple plasma ball at the tip of the sword. Black plasma bolts of lightning hit the ground rapidly, and the ground started to shake violently. Soon, the bodies of the dead started to rise from the ground. One by one. But that wasn't all. Out of nowhere, a fucking giant dragon-like creature's skeleton rose from the ground. It stood at least 15 stories tall.

Kurome: I'm not the same as I used to be. Now, I can turn anything I kill into my puppet...sis.

The dragon's hand went down to the ground and opened its hand. Kurome kept her gaze locked on Akame as she jumped onto the hand of the giant beast. The dragon-like being lifted her up from the ground and brought his hand near the creature's chest.

Kurome: Even an ultra-class Danger Beast like this Destaghoul. They are under my full command, willing to do anything that I say exactly as I say it. Hehe, you guys don't stand a chance against me.

She said it with an evil smirk.

The group of assassins' were now, to be honest with themselves, a little scared. They never fully understood the power of her Teigu. And even though Yhwach was a great help in knowing what their battle strategy was and what their weapons were capable of, he never said they were capable of power like this.

The battle had now begun, the Jeagers of the Imperial Capital against the Night Raid of the Revolutionary Army has started.

Kurome: ....I wonder...how many of you will die?....Well, let's find out how weak you all really are!

She said as she lifted her sword up high, still standing on the skeleton dragons hand.

Night Raid didn't move a muscle. All of them were too shocked to see the power level Kurome had with her Imperial Arms. The power to control the dead that you've killed?! How is such a thing possible?! But more importantly, this is a problem. If she has the power to control the dead of those she killed, if she kills one of them, she could theoretically use the power of their friends against them, and that will be a big issue. Akame was just staring at Kurome, deep in thought. Holding her sword as her hand and eyes twitched.

Akame: ( In thought ) Kurome....No, I need to focus. I need to think. Even though she can control her fallen enemies, I'm very sure the strain of controlling them will leave her to be slower than us. I don't want to kill you, dear sister, but you've caused us too much damage. Forget saving her, she CAN'T be saved. I need to take action and kill her as soon as possible.

Akame immediately grabbed Murasame with both hands and charged at the giant beast that was holding Kurome. As Akame was running, the beast proceeded to slash and attack Akame, only for Akame to dodge all of its attacks and proceed to climb the beast, getting closer to Kurome.

Najenda: Akame! Don't kill her!

She yelled out in desperation, hoping that she would hear her, but Akame didn't care to listen.

Najenda: Damn it! Leone, Tatsumi! Prevent Akame from killing Kurome. Everyone else, proceed to help me get rid of the rest of the dead.

She ordered.

Everyone else: Yes ma'am!

As ordered, Tatsumi and Leone proceeded to make their way towards Akame and Kurome, proceeding to kill some of the dead that stood in their way. The others proceeded to kill and destroy as much of the dead as they could, but the more they killed, the more that would pop up out of the ground.

Najenda: ( In thought ) The more we kill the more that come up from the ground! How many people did Kurome kill?! I don't know how much more we can deal with until we can't hold out anymore! C'mon Yhwach! Where the hell are you?! 

Meanwhile with Yhwach

Yhwach gazes down at a map clutched in his hand, depicting a ravine and a stretch of desert. As he lifts his eyes, a swampy forest unfolds before him.

Yhwach: ...Reluctant as I am to admit it... it seems I've lost my way.

Yhwach's gaze narrowed as he sensed the impending danger. In an instant, he vanished from his current location, using Hirenkyaku to traverse the distance rapidly. The Quincy King soared through the air, his spiritual pressure allowing him to sense the presence of others around him.

As he descended towards the battlefield, Yhwach focused his spiritual senses using Reikaku. The energy in the air vibrated, revealing the locations and auras of those present. Night Raid and the Jaegers, locked in a fierce struggle, became clear to him.

With pinpoint accuracy, Yhwach located the imminent threat. Bols, preparing to unleash his flamethrower Teigu on Akame, found himself interrupted as Yhwach in the blink of an eye. Sent A swift kick sending Bols flying away from his intended target.

Yhwach gaze fixed on the flamethrower-wielding Jaeger.

Yhwach: Your interference ends here.

Bols, recovering from the unexpected attack, faced Yhwach with a mix of surprise and determination.

Yhwach: To combat fire, why not unleash the flames ourselves?

Bols: Mh. If this is how it is, do your best.

Yhwach observed the aftermath of the explosion, realizing that a landslide had isolated them from the rest of the group.

Yhwach: This complicates matters.

Bols: What's the issue? Can't call for backup?

Yhwach: Quite the opposite. I can't ascertain if any of my allies are at risk.

Bols: So, you'd halt our battle to ensure their safety?

Yhwach: Without a doubt.

Bols: ...Commendable. But that won't exempt you from our fight!

As the tension heightened, Yhwach noticed Bols preparing to unleash his flamethrower. Reacting with incredible speed, Yhwach rushed at Bols, closing the distance rapidly. In a split second, he was close enough to throw a powerful punch. However, Bols, quick on the defensive, blocked the punch with a metal plate hidden on his arm. With a swift counter, Bols threw Yhwach away, creating some distance.

Seizing the opportunity, Bols conjured a fireball and launched it towards Yhwach.

Yhwach, however, was ready. With a precise swipe of his blade, he sliced the fireball in half, the two flaming halves harmlessly dissipating in the air. Yhwach, now sprinting towards Bols, unleashed a rapid series of attacks.

Bols, blocked and dodged as best as he could. Yhwach closed in and delivered an axe kick, causing Bols to stagger and fall to the ground.

Before Bols could recover, Yhwach closed the remaining distance. However, Bols utilized the moment, blasting Yhwach point-blank with a torrent of fire. Flames surrounded the Quincy King, but Yhwach's spiritual pressure surged, creating a protective barrier using Blut Vene.

Yhwach, emerging unscathed from the flames, stood a few paces away from Bols. The Jaeger, catching his breath, looked at Yhwach with a mix of curiosity and respect.

Bols: You're strong and skilled. Tell me, why are you with the rebels?

Yhwach, his expression calm and composed, replied.

Yhwach: The corruption within the Empire has become undeniable. Innocents suffer, and I seek retribution for their sake.

Bols: ...You may be a righteous man. But...

Bols charged his flamethrower at Yhwach.

Bols: My duty is to incinerate you and your belief!

Yhwach dashed at him, skillfully evading the flames, and delivered a powerful punch to Bols's stomach.

Yhwach: You've taken countless lives. Your hands are stained with the blood of the innocent.

Yhwach pushed Bols back with a swift kick and halted him with a firm grip.

Yhwach: But we know the truth. You're not inherently evil.

Bols's eyes widened.

Yhwach: Beneath your duty, there lies kindness and concern for your comrades. So, why do you persist in serving the Capital?

They locked eyes for a moment.

Bols: ...You're mistaken... I am not kind, and I will pay for my sins... But I have two reasons to fight, waiting for me at home!

They confronted each other, Bols prepared to face his fate.

Yhwach: ...Fate is truly cruel.

A powerful punch struck Bols's chest, sending him crashing into the wall.

Yhwach leaped into the air, closing in on Bols. But just as he was about to strike...

Bols: I'm sorry.

Bols aimed his flamethrower at Yhwach, enveloping him in a tornado of flames. When the flames subsided, Yhwach stood before Bols, unscathed.

Bols: No way! How did you—

Yhwach seized the tip of the flamethrower, breaking it in half before Bols could react.

Bols: M-My Teigu!

Yhwach took hold of Bols's gun, pointing it at his head.

Bols:... So the time has come. I knew this day would arrive, and yet... Go on then. Do what you must.

With arms lowered, Bols looked up, anticipating Yhwach pulling the trigger.

Yhwach continued to observe him.

Yhwach: ...You have a family, don't you?

Bols: ...

Yhwach: ...Take them and leave the Capital immediately. Begin anew.

Yhwach holstered the gun and started to walk away.

Bols: Why!? Your task was to end me, right!? Why spare me!?

Yhwach halted.

Yhwach: I don't care what you say; your soul is pure. Your self-blame is punishment enough.

Yhwach turned away.

Bols fell to his knees, tears streaming down. Yhwach proceeded to leave.

Bols: ..Thank you... thank you for your kind words... and please, forgive me... but I can't leave.

Yhwach turned to him, noticing Bols holding the tank of the flamethrower.

Yhwach: No, don't!

But it was too late; Bols had already pressed the button.

The explosion devastated our surrounding, turning it in a crater.

Just an instant before the detonation, Yhwach was able to protect himself with Blut Vene.

Yhwach noticed something. Yhwach could still feel his soul.

Yhwach noticed the others coming to him.

Tatsumi: Yhwach! Are you alright!?

Akame: What was that explosion!?

 Yhwach: It's good to see you're unharmed... Leone. What happened to your arm?

Her left arm was cut in half and she was holding the piece.

Leone: A gift from a Bitch. Don't worry though, I'll heal with no problem.

Yhwach: I see.

Yhwach finally observed Susanoo's distinct transformation.

His shirt torn, revealing a bared chest, and his hair turned white, with a large stone circle forming behind him.

Yhwach: Susanoo?

Susanoo: Indeed. This is my ultimate technique, 'Magatama Manifestation.'

Najenda: It harnesses the user's life to unlock its true potential.

Yhwach: The user's life... you mean your life?

Najenda: Yes, there's a three-use limit. I still have two left before it takes my life.

Tatsumi: What happened here? Did you trigger this?

Yhwach: No, Bols detonated the tank of his Teigu and managed to escape. What about all of you?

Akame: Kurome got away.

Leone: The explosion provided her an opportunity.

Tatsumi: At least now she's left with only two puppets.

Yhwach: I see.

Then Yhwach sensed a fading soul, one he recognized.

Yhwach: (In thought) ...This...

Najenda: Is something wrong, Yhwach?

Yhwach: ...I must check something. I'll be back as quickly as possible.

Without addressing the others' inquiries, Yhwach swiftly departed from the area.

But when Yhwach arrived, he was greeted by Bols' lifeless body. Dead.

What caused Yhwach to feel sorrow was the fact that Bols was crying.

Yhwach: I'd like to tell your family... if only I knew who they are...

Lubbock: Yhwach? What are you doing here?

Yhwach turned to the right and saw Lubbock standing there.

Yhwach: Lubbock. Still here, I see.

Lubbock: My strings warned me of a presence, and I honestly hoped it was Chelsea.

Yhwach: Chelsea? Why? What's the problem?

Lubbock: She chose to transform into Bols after killing him and decided to confront Kurome alone.

Yhwach: ...Lubbock... go tell the others... I'll try to reach her as fast as I can.

Lubbock: I'm going right away. Although she has a lot of advantage right now...

Yhwach: I don't care.

Yhwach took a direct path to the Capital.

Yhwach was very confused. Why attack someone like Kurome if not everyone from the team made it? It made no sense.

And then Yhwach realized. Her puppets.

Kurome had only two puppets left, so Chelsea wanted to prevent her from obtaining another six.

Yhwach: But still, why didn't she wait for reinforcement? That idiot!

Yhwach kept going until he reached a field of flowers.

The flowers around him were pink and violet.

Yhwach: (In thought) What is that red?

Yhwach gave it a closer look and found his answer.

Blood. Fresh blood.

Yhwach: ...No...

He noticed a blood trail.

Yhwach: Don't you dare...

As if it wasn't enough, it started raining.

The blood trail led into the Capital.

Until Yhwach spotted a small crowd gathered around something.

Yhwach: What are they looking at?

Examining more closely, Yhwach noticed that the 'something' was a pole.

With blood flowing down it.

Yhwach: ...No...

Hesitantly looking up, he saw the source of that blood.

( Picture )

Chelsea's head was impaled on the top of the pole.

( Picture )