104On a lone dirt road, within a peaceful and quiet lush forest, a carriage with two travelers humbly followed its direction. Their intended destination was another village, where they would trade their food and tools for funds to support their own village. Such was the nature of living outside in the country, without any support of the Capital, and with their increased taxes on their home, they had little choice but to travel these dirt roads much more frequently than years before. Unfortunately, this journey will not go on as peacefully as usual as the ground shook beneath the two drivers.
"W-What the hell!"
Huge cracks began to surface on the dirt floor, huge enough that the drivers feared they and the carriage would fall in. Unfortunately, this would not be the problem they faced as a large, horrifying creature emerged from the dirt cracks.
"I-It's a danger beast!" The second driver said in horror.
It was an Earth Dragon, known for hiding underneath the ground in order to catch their prey. It's armor was resilient and tough, enough to withstand large boulders. And its claws were huge and sharp, enough to chop down entire trees. It looked like it would take at least a small army of swordsmen to take it out, perhaps more. But one thing was for sure, they could not fight, and the beast is surely going to enjoy its feast.
The beast lashed out, launching a wild claw to slaughter the two drivers. A claw that size would surely leave nothing but minced meat, and the drivers would soon face their annihilation. There was nothing they could do. As they screamed in horror, they closed their eyes, thinking about their loved ones they'd failed due to this horrible encounter they couldn't have possibly prepared for. But their deaths would not come, leaving themselves blinded for seconds on end, waiting for their supposed deaths to painfully occur.
Instead, the loud crash of a tumbling monster was heard, launching dirt and debris around their area. Still frightened, they slowly opened their eyes and saw the same beast, imposing and mighty, dead right in front of their wagon.
Everything happened far too fast for any human to comprehend that they are suddenly saved. Their hearts still pounded in their chest, their faces still dripping with sudden sweat, and their eyes continued to shake. What they have just witnessed was impossible. What had just happened? An Earth Dragon was a Class 1 threat, and what they have witnessed was said threat alive one second and dead in the next. They saw the dust and dirt begin to settle down, allowing them to analyze the wounds that have made themselves visible on the beast.
The wounds were done by a sword, and the locations of the wounds were specific and precise. One to decapitate the claw, removing the weapon of death that the driver's would have endured; another onto its leg, having been sliced open enough for it to fall towards the ground; and lastly to its neck, supposedly covered by protective armor, now exposed due to the monster's instinct of preventing it's head from damage had it landed on the ground. It was an instant kill, and they continued to stare at the wounds like they shouldn't have been there.
The dirt finally settled from the large Danger Beast's fall, allowing the travelers to see the culprit of such a precise and efficient kill. It was the same young boy they had allowed to travel alongside them. He waved the blood covered sword in a quick fashion, removing it all by doing so. They watched him place the sword back into its sheath and rub off the dirt that had fallen into his medium long brown hair and off his near perfect suit he wore upon their meet. They thought the sword was meant for basic protection, but had they known he was superbly trained in the art of swordsmanship, they wouldn't have given him a hard time allowing him to join them. They had to thank him.
"My god!" said the first driver, "That was…That was incredible!"
"We didn't even see that danger beast coming!" said the second driver, "We…we don't know how to thank you!"
"Are you both alright?"
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Again, the boy spoke with a plain, even tone of voice. So plain it could have completely disregarded the amazing feat he had just accomplished. When they first met, they disregarded him as a rich man's child who had gotten lost and wished to find his way home. After all, what kind of boy could afford such a well-made, slick, and professional suit. With a nice white button up undershirt, a slim black blazer, tapered trousers, black glistening dress shoes, and all of which contrasted with a bright red tie, had it not been for his young age they would have confused him for an entrepreneurial man. But now, their view of this young man completely changed, their lives were saved thanks to his remarkable skills.
"Y-yes, we're both fine!"
"That's right, yes, really."
The young man nodded, beginning to make his way back inside the back of the wagon.
"Then, if you don't mind, let's continue on then."
Again, he spoke straight to the point. With the time they've spent with him, he did not waste words. Everything that he spoke held some form of meeting. Some objective he wanted accomplished. It was never small talk or wistful words from the mind. Straight business, nothing more, nothing less. And when he did speak, he spoke with that very same tone. The very tone of voice that conveyed certainty and presented a quiet confidence that a boy his age shouldn't be in possession of. Was this even a boy they were traveling with? Perhaps he was a man with a growth deficiency? Well, he might as well be a slab of iron, because his face, posture, and body language spoke only resilience and sturdiness. There was very little he revealed about himself, only that his desired stop was at a crossroads that they would eventually pass by. However, that did little to satiate their growing curiosity of the boy, he held such an air of mystery around him that the death of this creature only fuel that emotion. It was very rude, they admit, but they couldn't help it.
"W-Wait a minute!"
Before the young man could disappear behind their wagon, he faced the driver that called him.
"I-If you don't us asking, we'd like to know where you're heading."
"You…only told us where to stop. With skills such as yours, you must be going somewhere important, yeah?"
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"The Capital," he responded.
They gasped, yet for some reason they were not entirely surprised. The location was in the back of their minds, given their previous first impressions on the boy. However, what reason could the young man have that could possibly motivate him to go to such a dark, cruel, and corrupt place. Everyone in the country knew of the economic depression that was currently going on, so what is this boy's reason?
They looked at each other, then the second driver decided to ask the question.
"And…again if you don't mind us asking, what would be your reason?"
It felt so odd to feel such nervousness around someone much younger than them. Granted, he had saved their lives, but he looked just three years older than the first driver's eldest daughter. He couldn't be any age older than sixteen. Yet he held himself with such poise, with proper posture and eye contact, that they felt as if he was years older.
"…I'm going to meet someone there," the young man said, "And, with all due respect, I'd prefer not to reveal anything more."
Interesting. Perhaps it was a love interest? Someone from his past that he hasn't seen in a long time. They can only guess, for the boy only gave answers that gave birth to more questions. His face and attitude didn't change, preventing any possible information from being revealed or assumed. He was an interesting boy, but something about him…wasn't right. Or…maybe they were overthinking it. After all, terrible things happened on this Earth all the time. Perhaps the boy suffers from trauma? Perhaps he could be joining the military, with skills such as his, and the proper attitude to boot, he should be able to enter with the highest ranking. But, either way, despite their curiosity, they would be remiss to turn this peaceful trip into a gripping interview. And they would rather not pry further, as the young man closed himself off behind the wagon, waiting for them to continue their ride.
"Alright, let's continue on then."
The other driver gave a firm nod.
The rest of the drive was just as quiet as before the danger beast attack.
The boy who calls himself Tatsumi entered the Capital with little, if any, protests from the guards. His focus never left his surroundings, having nothing better to do within his mysterious mind. He notices the faces of the citizens moving out of his way, likely mistaking him for someone of importance. He should be wary of this, drawing too much attention was never how he liked to function. Luckily, he brought a change of clothes if this situation occurred. Being prepared for all and possible scenarios was his specialty, and once he was given the opportunity, he will change his clothes.
He took out a piece of paper from his pocket. Written on it was a note by the former general of the Empire, Najenda, who has since led the assassin group known as Night Raid. Ignoring the note he had read numerous times, Tatsumi focused on the small map that lead to a rendezvous point, where he is expected to meet with a Night Raid member. He had to make a left, and thus he did.
The left took him to a marketplace full of food, restaurants, and stands. Many tried to get his attention, but we're immediately put off by his focused avoidance. He didn't have time to waste with them, nor would he benefit from their interactions. He imagined that their rendezvous point would be somewhere secluded. There were far too many people here, so perhaps they would go somewhere secluded once they met? He would have to see.
*PAT*
Someone grabbed his shoulder, gently as if greeting an old friend. It was remarkably smooth, likely belonging to a young woman.
"Hey there little buddy!"
He turned around and confirmed his suspicion. Blonde, golden eyes, two inches taller, likely in her early twenties, has a remarkable chest size and dresses in scantily clad clothing, probably for provocative reasons.
"Man, when I heard you were going to meet me in a suit, I almost laughed! But wow, is this like a job interview for you or something?"
Interesting, she seems to know about him. She does match the description given to him; this must be the contact he was expected to meet with.
"I suppose you must be Leone?"
"Yessir! But you can call me big sis if you want!" she said with a smile, as she began to ruffle his brown hair, "And I guess you're Tatsumi!"
Strange, supposedly this is a member of Night Raid. He expected someone more…poised, professional. He had only met this woman and already she is treating him like a childhood friend…or little brother if the "big sis" comment didn't reveal anything. She didn't seem the type to kill, but perhaps he was judging to harshly. It would be a great diversion of expectations if that were the case.
She released herself from him, allowing Tatsumi to fix the disorganized mop she created on his head. He wished she wouldn't have done that, but perhaps playing along would be less troublesome in the long-haul. After all, they would be working together after tonight.
"You seem really uptight? You remind me of someone else I know, all cold and brooding. You're a funny guy you know that?"
Interesting response, she finds his attitude humorous. Not surprising, given her personality he was able to deduce thus far. Also, being compared to by someone else, that is interesting. Perhaps she is the exception regarding her character. Are there others that are more professional? He would have to see for himself.
"If you don't mind me interrupting, I'd like to discuss the…test I'm being given," he spoke, careful with his words.
Leone smile slightly faltered, then came back to life almost as soon as it fell.
"Okay Mr. Sophisticated!" she fondly called him, "But fiiiiiiiiirst…."
She turned around, causing Tatsumi to raise an eyebrow in suspense. Was there more to the test? Perhaps this is a test to see how capable he is in the field? What would it entail, seeing as they were in public? It would be a tough task, but Tatsumi always liked a challenge. It would be as expected from an assassin group.
As he quickly pondered this, Leone had quickly turned back around, with a bigger smile than she had before.
"First!" she exclaimed, "You have to buy me a drink!"
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"…Is this a test?"
"Nope!" she said with enthusiasm, "Buy me a drink and I'll tell you what you have to do!"
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Leone downed her fourth jug of alcohol, a remarkable feat considering she barely looked tipsy.
"Man!" she exclaimed, "Never early in the day for some hooch, am I right?!"
"It 11 in the morning."
"Pfft so what!" she put the jug down with the others, "Well, aren't you going to get yourself a cup!"
"I don't drink."
"Really?!" she raised her voice, "You're missing out on all the fun lil' bro! You're never too young to enjoy a good brewski!"
"With all due respect, Miss Leone, we have been here for quite some time and I'd like to know what my test entails."
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She blinked a couple of time, surprised with such a blunt request.
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"PFFFFFT-HAAAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAAHA"
Tatsumi watched as the blonde assassin continued to laugh her lights out at the request he thought would motivate her to get straight to business. This was an interesting reaction, to say the least.
"Oh…Oh my god! Oh my god you act just like her!" she tried to say in between breaths, "Oh my god…this is too good!"
She continued laughing.
"Oh my god there's two of her!"
She, again, continued to laugh.
Again, he was being compared. A woman to be exact. Perhaps she was making the comparison of personality at face value. As far as Tatsumi was aware, he has never met anyone that was like him, but it mattered little to him.
However, right now, Leone's laughing fit was telling him so much about her character.
It was obvious that this woman was confident in herself, at least in face value. Her looks, personality, clothes, and smile convey a woman of poor discipline and very little shame. She must use her looks for a reason outside of getting the attention of the opposite sex. Also, if she were an assassin, then it's very unlikely that she would coerce them into a false sense of security through promises of foreplay. Her apparent lack of discipline and self-control wouldn't allow that to happen. Perhaps it's a method of mocking? If that were true, then it would indicate that she finds pleasure in the misfortune of others. Killing must be a great pleasure for her if this were the case. However, being a part of Night Raid indicates that she must be living with a strong sense of justice, otherwise she'd be nothing more than a mindless murderer.
To put it simply, she's a sadistic sociopath that means well. It's an interesting combination.
Her laughing fit was beginning to die down.
"Oh my god," she said, calming down, "You're…You're really a funny guy, you know that."
"I'll keep that in mind."
She calmed herself down with deep breaths. Leone must have found the comparison truly hilarious to be at this point.
"But I will say this," she said, "It's about your test."
Finally, straight to business. If he's lucky, he could have more time to prepare if needed.
He noticed Leone was suddenly quiet, betraying the laughing fit she had moments ago. It was a serious, pensive look, which confirms the assumption of her "meaning well". It seems she is debating whether to tell him the details of the mission.
"Are you all right?" he asked, gaining her attention again.
"What? Oh right…It's just…" she looked pensive again, "Are you sure about this? Taking this…test?"
"Yes."
She was taken aback at his immediate, confident response. She let out a small laugh.
"I haven't even told you the details of it."
"Then by all means."
Leone frowned at the response again. She looked concerned for him.
"Listen," she said, "…I know only as much as what the boss told me about you, alright?"
She shifted herself in her chair, to a more straightened, serious posture.
"What you're about to do…it's…it's never been done before…Not of this scale at least. The place the boss gave you for this test…well, it was meant for us to do as a team but…it seems as though she saw it fit to give it to only you."
She got closer to the young man.
"Night Raid will not be associated with this test," she whispered, "Meaning, if you fail…it's over. We will not help you, nor will we spare your life if you reveal anything about us."
She said that last aspect with a cold tone.
"I can guarantee that won't happen," Tatsumi responded, "I'll die with my mouth shut."
She exhaled a bit of breath. Another straightforward response.
"Funny," she responded, "The boss said you'd say something like that, you really made an impression on the Revolutionary Army apparently. Unfortunately, I don't know what that means yet."
She backed up again, back to her seat.
"Look…you…You seem like a…decent kid, and I'm not quite fond of seeing young people…suffer…especially from something like-"
"Miss Leone," she blinked at the sudden interruption, "It would be better to save your concern, I can guarantee it's not necessary."
She slightly widened her eyes at the response. He spoke with a voice of certainty, of confidence, maybe even experience. She didn't tell him the details, but maybe he already knows what it could be…
"And if on the off chance I fail, then I implore you to forget about me, as I assume you do to your…clients."
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It was such a cruel thing to say that it made her pause. It seems as though he had little regard for his own life and assumes she should have little for his as well. Albeit, she often forgets about the people she kills, especially if they were of no importance, but she never enjoyed young people such as him dying on a mission, especially something of this magnitude.
"Please, the details," He finished.
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"…Alright then," was all she can say.
She got closer to him again.
The targets are a family of humanitarians, or at least that's what they like for people to see them as. On the surface they seem like the normal, albeit extremely wealthy family whose kind enough to allow guests either from the country, down on their luck, or for reasons on a personal level into their large home. But as our client revealed, it's nothing but a front. Their true intentions are as vile and sadistic as what the Capital has become.
We have proof that the family takes pleasure in brutally torturing the guests they bring in, all of which participate in this activity like a sick family game night. The client's brother was unfortunately taken and killed by this family, and only now was she able to afford the money to ask for our help. The vile in that woman's voice asked for nothing more that justice for her lost brother. And its Night Raids obligation to give her that justice.
The names of the targets are Reginald, the father; Julia, the mother; and Aria, the daughter. Again, normally we would handle this as a team, considering how huge their mansion it, as well as the number of guards that patrol there, but since only you will be doing this mission I cannot interfere. I should warn you that the guards in this house don't mess around. They will protect this family no matter the cost. You can do whatever you want with them, working for this family is just as worse as being the family.
The boss' impression on you is very…positive. She wants you to get this done before the sun rises. And while you're at it, she also wants you to check for survivors that may still be alive in their…torture chambers. They're known for being thorough, so…I'm not sure if it's worth saving them, but you'll have to decide that when the time comes. Also, you're going to have to figure out where the torture chamber is yourself, we couldn't get details for you, so…sorry.
There's a lot to do in this mission, and again, Night Raid will not be associated with this. If you fail, we will not help you, nor will we spare your life. You only get one change bro, hope you pull off whatever magic you have up your sleeve for this, because you're on your own.
"I'll be watching you as you get this done, but don't expect my help if you run into trouble."
"That's perfectly fine." Tatsumi responded, "Is there any way I can get access to the house."
"Well, again, the family often takes people in from the streets, so…look homeless I guess and hopefully they'll take you in. Just don't get tortured."
"I'll keep that in mind," He got up, "Is that all Miss Leone."
"For Pete sake dude, just Leone is fine, or Big Sis!" she got up, "I'll be honest, I may not help you, but I'll be rooting for you!"
She gave him a smile.
"Then I'll be seeing you soon." He said, making his way to the exit.
Leone watched the young boy walk out of the bar. First impressions were…very bland and rough around the edges. He did seem like a good kid, albeit very quiet and blunt, but to take on a mission all by himself was nothing to mess around with. It seemed the boy took this mission with stride and confidence, maybe a bit overconfident. She couldn't tell. She frowned as the boy finally left the establishment. Can he do it? Can he single-handedly take on this mission of this magnitude all by himself?
Either way, she had to see this for herself.
10:23 PM
Aria yawned as she relaxed herself inside the carriage, hoping that she would arrive home sooner rather than later. It was such a long day of shopping that she hoped she can reap her rewards soon, but unfortunately she forgot how long it took for her to get from the shopping district of the Capital to her house. She looked outside the window, noticing that she was on the bridge to enter the district that led to her home. She saw the water glisten from the moonlight, and the old yet sturdy bridge that held the large weight of her bags and bags of clothes and other miscellaneous things she'll probably not use after a couple of days.
And then…she saw someone on that bridge.
It was a young man, probably a young teenager with shuffled brown hair. He was wearing long white jacket, a beige colored sweater with a white undershirt, dark khakis, and brown boots. It wasn't the clothing of someone who was poor, but it was obvious that he was down on his luck. His head was down, likely in frustration and shame of his current predicament, and he was carrying a bag by his side, likely whatever belongings he had with him. Perhaps he had lost his money somehow, and now he had nowhere to go…
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It was too good. What a treat.
Perhaps this long ride home was worth the trouble after all!
Her heart skipped a bit. Excited, hopeful, she smiled at such a great opportunity.
Now to take her shot.
"Stop right here!"
The carriage stopped without a moment's notice.
"Are we really doing this again, my lady?" asked the guard driving the carriage, knowing full well what she was going to do.
"I just can't help it," she said, with a glint in her eye, "It's just the kind of person I am!"
She composed herself, stepped out of the carriage, and began to approach the young man.
As she approached the boy, she noticed he hasn't acknowledged her approach. She couldn't help but smile at this, enjoying the feelings a shark approaching its prey might have.
"Excuse me!" she said a little too excitedly.
The boy looked at her with curious eyes.
"U-Uh…yes?" he responded, slightly on edge.
"If you have no were to go, then I'm more than glad to let you stay at my home."
There's the bullet.
The boy, not expecting such kindness looked at her suspiciously. It's to be expected, but if she can get him to come, then it'll be so much sweeter.
"…Thanks, but I'm broke."
She giggled.
"Well if you weren't, then you wouldn't be out here, now would you?"
She loaded the gun.
The guards were approaching her from behind.
"Lady Aria has a bit of a weakness for helping people with no were to go."
"You should really accept her offer."
The gun took aim.
"Pretty please?" she said, blushing with anticipation.
The boy seemed to be affected by her charm, grasping the back of his head in embarrassment.
"Uh…Well…Uh…" he said timidly, "…It's better than sleeping outside I guess."
Bullseye.
"Great! Then let's go home!"
She couldn't be more pleased. Another guest to spend time with. Perhaps he'll be more amusing than the two others.
10:51 PM
"Oh my, it seems Aria has brought another guest."
"Oh my, so it would seem, how many does this make?"
"Mother!" Aria said embarrassed.
She looked at the boy, innocently looking around the house. He must have never been inside a mansion before.
"Wow, this place is beautiful," he commented.
"Well thank you so much for your kind words, Mr…?"
The boy realized his mistake.
"Oh, I'm sorry, my name is Tatsumi!" he quickly bowed, "Thank you so much for letting me stay in your wonderful home!"
They laughed at his comment.
"Nonsense," said Aria's father, "My daughter does this all the time, it's become quite the habit!"
"Father, please, that's enough," she said embarrassed, "You know I can't help it."
"And I love that so much about you, sweetheart." The father replied back, "Always helping out those in need. I raised quite the great daughter."
"Reginald, if you coddle her more in front of our guest, she'll grow as red as a tomato!"
"MOOOOOOOOOM!"
They both laughed at her expense.
"Well, either way, good to have you. Please Tatsumi, make yourself at home!"
"Thank you again…Would it be okay if I make a small request?"
A request? Interesting, thought Reginald.
"And what would this request be?"
"I've…" he began nervously, "I've never been inside a mansion before. I'm from the country, so this is all very foreign to me, so-"
"I'm assuming you would like a tour then," said Julia with a bright smile.
"Y-Yes, if that's alright!"
They all laughed at his request. This wouldn't be the first time someone would have asked that question, and it definitely wouldn't be the last.
"Then by all means, Guards!"
The guards raised themselves upon Reginald's call.
"Show our fine guest our wonderful home, see to it that he sees every nook and cranny his heart desires. Just…don't go in the shed outside, it's horribly messy in there."
"Yes sir!"
Tatsumi smiled brightly.
"Thank you so much sir!"
"Please, sir is what my father used; Reginald is just fine," He adjusted himself from his chair.
"Now please go on and enjoy yourself Tatsumi," said Julia, "I have a feeling your time here will be a time you'll never forget!"
"Thank you," he said, "And I home my time here will be one you'll never forget as well!"
They chucked at that response.
And with that, he left with the guards.
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"My goodness Aria, where do you find these people!" he said.
"I question that myself, he's so…ripe!" said Julia, licking her lips.
"Should we do it tonight? That hick won't know what's coming!" asked Aria.
"Oh no no no!" answered Reginald, "It'll be far better tomorrow."
They all smiled a vile smile.
"After all, the little he knows, the more fantastic the experience will be."
"His look of betrayal will be amazing!" Julia commented.
They all chucked in agreement.
"For now, I believe it's past your bedtime Aria."
"Awww, but Father!"
"No but's young lady!" said her mother, "You need your beauty rest to say young and healthy."
She pouted, but begrudgingly complied. After all, she must rest for another shopping spree tomorrow. Maybe he can get Tatsumi to help, he seems to be the type to help a lady in need.
After all, it would be the icing on the cake for his ultimate fate.
11:56 PM
Tatsumi entered his temporary room spacious enough that any guest would be grateful to be in.
"And this is where you'll be staying tonight," said the guard, "I hope our tour was satisfying enough."
He said this with a tired sigh, the tour lasted far longer than he wished. The boy must truly never have seen a mansion before. When Sir Reginald mentioned every nook and cranny, he didn't literally mean every nook and cranny. It was very irritating, but unfortunately as their guard he must do as they wish. If the boy complained, then they would complain, and his fate would not be as assuming as they wished for it to be.
"Yes, this place is amazing, I wish I could live like this!" he said with less enthusiasm than before.
Perhaps he was as tired as he was.
"Well, that's good. Sir Reginald would rather you stay in your quarters, at least until the morning."
"Ah, well alright. I was going to go to bed anyway," he answered back, "Thanks again for the tour."
The guard nodded in response.
"Have a good night."
"You too!"
And with that, the guard promptly left the room, leaving Tatsumi all alone.
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Tatsumi's smile left his face. His posture tall, and his demeanor vastly different than what was presented moments before.
The shed…this must be the torture chambers. The tour was greatly informative, so much so that he even knew that, in the event of an attack, the family would shelter there.
Perhaps he can use this, but for now he would play the cards that come his way.
He looked around his room. With a queen-sized bed, a private bathroom, and a great view, whoever would have stayed here would have likely never thought of such a terrible fate being possible. This family was smart, they must have done this for a very long time. He walked to the window, looking at the gorgeous view of the Capital. Whoever had the misfortune of staying here must have thought this was a view among views.
And then he saw a small light flicker on one of the rooftops. The frequency was not normal, likely being shown by someone. Looking through the drawers, he found an old telescope, likely for those who would like to get a better view of the city.
They sure take care of their guests, Tatsumi had to admit.
Looking through the telescope to find the source of the light, he discovered that it was none other than Leone, flashing the light of a bright lantern while holding a pair of binoculars. It seems she has found a good vantage point to monitor his progress.
"Nice, he saw me!" said Leone in excitement, stopping her light flickering
She got into a sitting position, now using both hands on the binoculars.
"Alright Mr. Sophisticated, let's see what you got!"
Tatsumi took a deep breath and exhaled.
It's time to get to work.
He approached the door and placed his hand on it.
Two guards were monitoring the door. One adult, the other much younger. Both were armed with swords. It was reasonable protection, considering the family's true intentions. He would have to create a diversion, lure at least one of them to his room.
He turned to his private bathroom, knowing where he can start.
Leone saw Tatsumi enter the bathroom.
"Hm? You going to freshen up lil' bro?"
He went for some toilet paper and placing it inside toilet.
"What on earth are you doing?"
Tatsumi flushed the toilet, and as expected, the toilet paper completely clogged it. The water continued to rise until it overflowed the toilet, allowing the water to rush out of it.
He left the bathroom and made his way to the door.
Turning the doorknob, he opened the door and was greeted with two swords blocking his path.
"We're sorry, but we cannot allow you to leave at this hour."
"You have to understand, despite Sir Reginald's kindness, you are still an outsider."
"Alright then," Tatsumi responded, "But if you don't mind, the toilet is clogged…and I don't know how to use a plunger."
They both lowered their swords.
"…Are you serious?"
"I'm afraid so."
The taller guard grasped the bridge of his nose.
"Can you take care of this please?" he asked the younger guard, highly irritated.
"What? Why me?"
"Because I'm your superior, now go!"
The small guard, highly annoyed by the request, lightly shoved Tatsumi out of the way to make his way to the bathroom.
Tatsumi followed suit.
As they entered the bathroom, they can see the water continue to overflow.
"Oh god!" the Guard said, "The hell did you do?!"
"I really am sorry, I tend to use too much toilet paper."
"Oh for God sake, get out of my way," said the Guard, grabbing the plunger.
He began to unclog the toilet; the numerous amounts of toilet paper being pushed down the pipe with every push continued to frustrate the already irritated Guard.
And after a couple of pushes, the toilet successfully cleared up, sucking up the overflowed water and flushing.
The Guard led out a sigh.
"Alright," he said, "Please don't use so much-"
He couldn't react in time to the slick garrot being wrapped around his neck.
With a twist, like a tourniquet, the garrot wrapped tightly around his neck as he was hoisted onto the leveled back of the young guest.
It was so sudden that he couldn't think properly.
He flailed for his sword but couldn't reach for it at his angle.
Desperate for air, he grasped for his neck, hoping to break free.
But as the garrot grew tighter, he could feel his airway closing.
And then.
*SNAP*
He was dead in an instant.
"God damn," commented Leone, "Smart son of a gun, aren't you?"
She smiled, honestly impressed by his plan.
Although she was more of a hands-on girl, she can appreciate a good kill like that.
She was beginning to understand why Najenda took such great interest in him.
She watched him drag the body with the garrot towards the closet, lifting it and placing it inside.
"Alright, now what's…what are you doing now?"
She saw Tatsumi getting undressed at an impressive speed. Why was he doing such a thing? Was he going to put on different clothes? Why? What would be the point? Did he get them dirty or something?
Completely undressed, Tatsumi opened the closet where he hid the body. With the closet door open, Leone could not see what he was doing. But whatever he was doing, it was fast considering what little movements escaped from the edge of the opened door.
And then, after a good suspenseful wait, he closed the door.
"Pfft!" she had to cover her mouth for what she was seeing, or she'll be too loud.
"Oh…Oh my god…No fricken way!" She said with a huge smile on her face.
Tatsumi had just put on the guard's armor. Was he being serious? Oh god this was too good. She had serious trouble preventing herself from laughing out loud.
"Oh my god, oh please god, please let him pass this test," she begged, "He's really funny!"
*KNOCK KNOCK KNOCK*
"Huh?"
The tall Guard looked back at the guest room door.
"Is everything alright in there?" The tall guard asked.
There was no response.
"Hello?"
Twisting the doorknob, he entered the room to seeing no one present.
Perhaps they were in the bathroom.
"C'mon, how long does it take to unclog a toilet?"
He made his way to the bathroom.
"C'mon kid," he called, opening the unlocked bathroom door, "We have a job to do, how long does it….take?"
There was no one in the bathroom. The hell? Is this some sort of prank?
"Hello?!" he yelled a little louder.
No answer. Confused, he decided to-
*SPHHHLT*
"*GURG*"
A sword's tip protruded from the front of his neck.
It was clean stab from behind, and it happened so fast that he just stood there frozen.
He could feel the blood rushing into his throat.
He could see the world grows slowly darker.
And he was unable to turn his neck to see who had done such a thing to him.
*SPHHHLT*
And the last thing he saw was the sword leave his neck.
Tatsumi, without wasting time, took the body in the closet where he hid in and placed it next to the other dead guard.
No one will find the body now, at least for the time being.
Adjusting his helmet, just enough to mask his face without compromising his disguise, he left the room without trouble.
The hallway was just as broad as he left it before, but barer and quieter without the two Guards by his door. In the distance, he could see more doors to other rooms, as well as more guards patrolling the hallways, and very little maids and butlers going about their business.
He made a left; the staircase to reach upstairs was only a momentary walk down the hall.
He was currently on the second third floor, the master bedroom was on the third, towards the left side, and Aria's room was on the right. Due to the size of the mansion, it would take a bit of a walk to get from one point to the other. It was a bit cumbersome, but Tatsumi was a patient young man.
The test will be completed, one way or another.
Making a right at the corner, he saw the staircase guarded by two guards. With his posture tall and certain, he made his way to the staircase.
But the moment he reached the steps, a hand grasped his shoulder.
"Excuse me, young man," called one of the guards, blocking his path, "What do you think you're doing?"
…
…
…
…
"I have been requested to go upstairs," Tatsumi said calmly.
"Well we didn't get any word of that," the Guard said, "Besides, we have enough Guards upstairs as is, why don't you go downstairs."
This was going to cause a bit of a delay.
He would have to find another means of reaching the upstairs level. He already can think of five other methods, so he will try what is the next most convenient. But first, he would have to address this guard before he grew suspicious of him.
Tatsumi gave him a nod, acknowledging his statement.
"I understand, I wasn't aware that there was already enough guards there."
"You should have been told this before coming here."
"I was," Tatsumi admitted, "I must have forgotten, I haven't been getting much sleep lately."
…
…
"…Well," the Guard said, "I suppose it has been stressful lately. This family can be quite the handful, especially Lady Aria. Why don't you go get some coffee to perk yourself up, you know, at the kitchen downstairs."
"I'll keep that in mind," Tatsumi replied, making his way downstairs.
"Oh! Wait a moment!" called the guard again.
Tatsumi stopped.
"If you're going to get that coffee, can you make sure that the butlers are making Lady Julia's tea? She has been rather restless and…persistent about it's progress. You know how she can be, just cannot rest without it."
…
…
…
…
Interesting…
"Sure thing, I'm go straight there."
"Thanks kid," he replied, moving back to his position.
Tatsumi continued down the stairs to the first floor of the huge mansion.
What an opportunity this was, if Tatsumi plays his cards right, he can get access to the third floor and make a beeline to the mother.
Arriving at the first floor, he made a right, walking straight for the kitchen.
But unfortunately, he should have been more wary of who was guarding the stairs downstairs
"Hey!"
There was a call, a loud call for his attention likely from one of the guards by the stairs.
"Are you…? Wait a minute, hey!"
The other guard at the staircase curiously watched.
The suspicious guard was the same guard that gave Tatsumi the tour, and unfortunately, he had seen his face long enough to grow suspicious.
With an unnatural calmness, Tatsumi continued walking.
"Hey! Boy!"
The guard quickened his pace in an attempt to catch up to him.
Tatsumi looked around, guards and maids watched with mild interest while the second guard by the staircase grew more and more curious about the tour guide's behavior.
This wasn't good.
Tatsumi missed the door to the kitchen, he needed to take care of this problem.
"Who the hell are you?!"
"What?" said the other guard, very confused.
Tatsumi entered the large pantry right next to the kitchen, causing the guard to run straight towards it as well.
"Hey!"
The guard rushed to the closed door he had entered.
"Get back here!"
The door was not locked, so he immediately rushed in.
*SPHHHLT*
And the guard stopped in his tracks. The box filled pantry room was so dark he couldn't react to the sword protruding right where his neck was located and unfortunately ran right into it.
He couldn't scream, for the blade struck deep enough to successfully block air from leaving his lungs.
And then, almost as instant as he noticed his fatal blunder, his world went black.
Tatsumi pulled out the sword, allowing the body to collapse on the floor.
"Hey! What's going on in there?"
The other guard's curiosity got the better of him and found himself walking towards the opened pantry door.
Tatsumi quickly lifted the body and dragged it away from the opened door.
The guard entered the room, only to pause as he saw no one inside.
Nothing but boxes, food, and spices.
"Where'd you go?"
The guard immediately began searching the room.
"Holy crap Tatsumi," Leone commented.
She had changed her vantage point in order to keep up with him.
It seemed someone caught wind of his disguise, something she was surprised hadn't happened earlier.
The only thing she can see was the man searching the large pantry room for the other guard that suddenly disappeared.
Leone couldn't help but sweat a bit.
"C'mon bro, do something."
The anxiety was beginning to increase, if that guard finds the dead body, Tatsumi is as good as dead.
But thankfully, that wouldn't come to be.
Suddenly he appeared from inside a large container, right behind the guard.
The guard, who didn't appear to have heard him leave the container, couldn't react in time as the garrot wrapped around the thin opening of the his neck.
Leone would not breathe until he saw the body drop to the ground and placed inside the container, likely alongside the other guard.
He did it. He actually did it. Any normal person would have caved into the pressure and stress, but this young man overcame this.
She wiped more sweat off her forehead.
"My god, this guy's crazy," she said, removing the binoculars so she can wipe her face with her hands, "But still…he's not out of the lion's den yet."
Tatsumi peaked outside the pantry door. The same maids and guards that were already present did not think any wiser of what happened inside.
Good.
It would seem the opportunity was not compromised from that slight setback. He will have to pay extra attention to the people of this place, they're not as laid back as he has suspected from the tour.
He exited the room, as calm and collected as he entered. The kitchen was not guarded, which was very convenient. Without a moments notice, he entered the room.
The kitchen was of decent size, enough to cook and serve enough people to host a large dinner party. He expected there to be more maids and butlers inside, considering the size of such a room. Instead, he only can spot one middle aged butler cleaning the ground with a mob and bucket.
Closing the door behind him caught the man's attention, prompting a look of annoyance at the young man in front of him.
"Yes? What is it?" the butler asked.
"I was told I can get some coffee here."
He rolled his eyes.
"For the last time, that coffee is for Sir Reginald and Lady Julia only."
"Is that so?"
"Yes, now please leave."
"Hold on, there is still something I must say."
"Oh, for heaven's sake, what can you possibly want?"
"Lady Julia's tea, she has been waiting for quite some time."
The face changed from annoyance to unease.
"Oh dear, she must be growing impatient. I'm afraid it's not yet ready, the other butlers are making preparations for our…guest, so I'm the only one here at the moment."
That explains the delay, perhaps Tatsumi can quicken the process.
"Well, is there anything I can do to help you?"
The butler raised an eyebrow at the request.
"That's…quite generous of you. If it's not to inconvenient then yes, there is something you can do for me."
He released the mop and brought a list of ingredients.
"The tea still needs these ingredients, but they are not in the pantry room. If you can go to the basement, we should have jars of them. They are just three jars I need; do you know what these are?"
Tatsumi looked at the list. One jar of chamomile, one of lemongrass, and one of rose petals.
"Tranquil Tea," Tatsumi said.
"W-Why yes, that is Tranquil tea! My word I would have never guessed a young man such as yourself would know this. And I thought they just hired brutes to do your job."
"I'll go get the ingredients for you then, it should only take a moment."
"Thank you very much, and I apologize for my attitude earlier. I have so much to do, and all by myself."
"There's no need to apologize, I'll be right back."
"Of course. And thank you again."
He promptly left to room and observed the list again. Once he got the ingredients, his plan will finally commence. Luckily, there's something he would need for this plan to work, and hopefully, he shall find it in the basement as well.
"Man, this guy is so strange."
Leone can only ponder as to what the young man was thinking. The targets were exactly the opposite direction of where he was going. Was he lost or something?
Also, why on earth was he in the kitchen of all places? With his sword he wouldn't have to need something as small as a knife. It would even appear he took a piece of paper from the butler as well.
As the boy entered the basement, she took off the binoculars to ponder something. She just can't get a read on him. He made it this far, with no one in the house alerted of his presence, but what was he going to do with this opportunity.
One thing was for certain, this was likely the strangest method of assassination she has ever witnessed.
But the test remained in motion. If he didn't kill the family, he's toast.
"I hope all of this is worth it lil' bro."
Tatsumi left the basement with the three jars in tow, making his way to the kitchen once again.
Entering, he was once again greeted with the butler, who placed his mop to the side once again.
"Ah, thank you very much sir."
He approached him, took each jar from him, and placed them on the table.
"Now, let's get this tea out of the way."
Without further notice, he began to reheat the water he was momentarily boiling. He took out the chamomile, lemon grass, and rose petals, and began lightly chopping them up into slightly smaller pieces. It cannot be too small, otherwise it would accidentally enter Lady Julia's teacup once poured.
He took the time to smell the ingredients combined, savoring the rich and fragrant scent, and mindfully feeling it interact with his nostrils.
It must smell good, as the butler release a satisfied breath, pleased with himself for using exactly the right amount for each ingredient.
Placing them in a small bowl, he waited momentarily for the water to reach a good boil.
"So, young man, how long have you been working here?" he asked.
"I've only just joined a couple of weeks ago, I'm still trying to understand what I can and can't do."
"Oh, I understand completely young man. Why, when I was your age, when I first started this job, I felt like a fish out of water. Made so many mistakes and got many people angry that I never would have thought I'd be here right now. But man…those were much better days, let me tell you."
"I can only imagine."
"Yeah, well it's a shame I lost my luster, but it comes with age. You should have seen me when I was younger, all spry and full of energy. Appreciate what you have young man, it starts to go down hill once you reach my age."
"I'll keep that in mind."
"That you should. Now, let's check up on that water."
The water almost threatened to bubble out of the pot, queuing the butler to carefully carry it by the handle to pour it into a tea kettle. Once the steaming water settled, he gently placed the chopped-up ingredients inside. And once he did, the flavors of each ingredient began to leak out.
The water slowly turned from clear into a relaxing color of smooth brown.
"And there we go."
The butler delicately poured the tea into a small teacup, placed the cup on a small dish, and promptly onto a tray.
"Thank you again young man, you have been very helpful. But…there is one more thing I must ask of you. I hope that will not be a problem."
"By all means."
"Oh my goodness, you are far too kind. Well, unfortunately I must upkeep to a schedule, so I must finish up my cleaning. If it's not too much to ask, would you deliver the tea to Lady Julia for me?"
…
…
…
…
"It would be no problem at all."
"And thank you once again, please be delicate. If it breaks come right back here."
"Sure thing."
He approached the tray and carried it steadily in his hands.
"Tell the guards that Godfrey sent you, that's my name. Would it be alright if I'm told yours, young man?"
"Tobias," Tatsumi answered immediately.
"Ah, such a strong name for a kind fellow such as yourself. Now, enough pleasantries, tell Lady Julia my humblest regards for not doing this myself."
"I'll keep that in mind."
The man smiled at that response.
And with that, he left the room with the tray.
"Now he's got tea?"
Leone was very confused, "Is he a butler or something?"
Everything he did was so confusing. Did he forget what he was supposed to do? The only thing he's killed so far where the guards that were in his way. So far, none of the targets have been killed, and Leone was wondering if he was ever going to get around to it.
It was really draining her patience. If it were Night Raid, they'd dispatch them all with ease. She can imagine them taking down all the guards, then quickly entering the house to take out the family. A simple in and out scenario. Tatsumi's methods were by far the slowest and weirdest she's ever seen.
Perhaps the boss should have given him a stricter time limit? No that wouldn't be fair. The fact that the young man made it this far, having killed all who got in his way, and all without bringing attention to himself was indeed amazing. Asking for more would be like asking for a miracle.
But right now, this kid was really testing that thought.
Refocusing on the young man, she could see him taking out a red canister from underneath his armor.
"What is he…?"
He was pouring it into the tea. What was that?
She tried to get a closer look, adjusting the binoculars she was holding and barely was able to see the image that was imprinted on the small canister.
It…looked like a rat? What that…rat poison?
Then it clicked.
"Oh….Holy Shit!" She said, "Don't fricken tell me!"
He was walking back upstairs to the same two guards.
Her smile was horribly huge with excitement. This had to be it! He must be delivering that tea to one of the targets! Otherwise, he wouldn't be adding the rat poison!
"Oh boy!" she squealed, "This is going to be great!"
Julia sighed the stagnant air from her lungs. After all that talk about beauty sleep, she cannot do so without her favorite tea. She drank it almost every night, and the fact that it was taking longer than usual bothered her. However, she knew that it wasn't unusual, it's likely due to the preparations they're making for their new guests. She giggled at the memory of the boy. He was so pure, so innocent, probably cannot even hurt a fly. He will be perfect for tomorrow.
His blood will look beautiful. And his screams will be delicious.
She had to write this into her diary! Taking it out, she began to reveal her inner most thoughts onto the blank pieces of paper. Smiling at the excitement and letting her energy be released onto her paper, she was startled when she heard a knock at the door.
Perhaps it was her tea.
"Come in!" she called, allowing the young guard to enter her study.
"Sorry for the intrusion Ma'am, Godfrey sent me to give you your tea."
She perked up.
"My goodness, finally! He must have been too busy to send it here himself, I'm assuming?"
"He sends his humblest regards."
She sighed, but regardless, at least she got her tea.
"Oh well, I hope he made it just right. Please be careful when you place it on the table."
The guard placed it on table carefully onto the table.
"If it's alright with you, Godfrey asked if I could stay and get a comment on his tea."
She was surprised by that request, and then gave a slight chuckle.
"That sure sounds like him. He must be worried sick about displeasing me. Stay for as long as you like."
"Thank you, Ma'am."
Julia sat on the small table where the tea was, smelled the sweat scent of chamomile, lemongrass, and rose petals.
And took a long sip.
She closed her eyes, tasting the delicate flavors ruminating onto her taste buds.
…
…
…
"Hm?" she opened her eyes, "Odd…"
"Ma'am?" the guard asked.
"Oh, I'm sorry, it's just…the tea, it tastes…different?"
"Maybe he added another ingredient?"
"Perhaps, it does taste slightly…bitter? I'm not sure how to describe it."
She placed the cup down.
"If you would be so kind Guard, would you mind…sending this….ba….ba.."
*GRUMBLE*
*GRUMBLE*
"O-…..Oh…..Oh dear…"
Julia didn't know what was going on. All of a sudden her stomach was in horrible pain.
"L-Lady Julia?"
The guard rushed by her side before she can collapse.
*GRUMBLE*
*GRUMBLE*
"Oh….Oh my….GOD!"
She covered her mouth, feeling the bile beginning to bubble inside her stomach.
"Lady Julia, what's happening?"
"B-B-Bathroom…please….Bath…Bathroom"
She covered her green colored, pained mouth.
Without a moment's notice, the guard took her to the bathroom conveniently inside the study.
"T-TOILET….HURRY…GURG," She covered her mouth, preventing the horrible burning of bile from leaving her mouth.
She was placed next to the toilet. Julia moved her head into the toilet bowl.
And promptly threw up.
Her stomach was burning up, and the inside of her mouth burned like acid on her gums. It was horrible, and she couldn't understand why this was happening. Was it the tea? Why would Godfrey send her such tea?
She can feel the guard hold her long hair away from her head, preventing vomit from getting on it.
A kind gesture indeed, but she cannot voice that now. This was terrible, it completely ruined her night. She never liked bile, whether it be hers or someone else's. She could barely breath when it happens, and the small breaks in between would cut whatever chance she had to breath off.
The vomit subsided momentarily, but she can feel more coming. She might as well thank the guard who held her hair away from her sickening mouth.
"Ugh, my god…Th…Thank you for-"
A sudden hand was placed behind her head.
And her entire head was submerged into the toilet.
It was so sudden, that she cannot help but flail around like a chicken without its head.
She tried to scream after a second of processing, which only caused her inhale burning water and bile.
Her lungs were on fire, and her adrenaline caused her heart to pump more than ever.
She grasped the toilet seat, trying to lift herself out, but her hands kept slipping from the water on the surface.
It was fruitless, the guard's strength outmatched hers. She can only continue to flail.
The world suddenly grew darker, and she began to grow lightheaded. The pain was disappearing, her tears mixed with the water and bile she was drowning in, and her vision was fading as well.
And soon enough, she ceased moving.
"PFFT-HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAAH!"
Leone bellowed a loud laugh she could not contain.
"Oh my god he did not just do that!"
She just witnessed Tatsumi, Mr. Sophisticated, drown the mother in her own toilet. A toilet filled with her own bile. It was so funny she couldn't help but laugh at it.
"Oh god, oh my god I have to tell the others about this!"
She continued to laugh, for quite some time as he left the room.
12:28 AM
One target down, two more to go.
He left the room, passing two Guards who were just arriving.
"How'd it go with Lady Julia?" One asked, knowing that the young man brought the tea to her.
"Everything went perfectly," Said Tatsumi, "However, she did ask to be left alone, at least within the study. She's writing something…private."
The guards nodded in understanding.
"Well, alright, that's fine. Move along then."
"Thank you."
He motioned to his path to the master bedroom as the two guards stayed watch at the Study. They won't be entering anytime soon, but that could change at any point. He slightly quickened his pace; he must finish off the father and the daughter while he was still on the third floor.
Passing by maids with sheets and cleaning supplies, as well as more guards, Tatsumi walked with a stride that spoke of proper training and diligent preparedness, as all the guards walked with. They would never expect that he was not one of them.
His most perfected skill was his mastery of blending in. It didn't matter the person, the place, or the personality, if he had the opportunity he could disappear from plain view. Disregarding his face, he could be anyone he wishes at any given moment, as long as it suits his needs.
In this case, he had absolutely no problems reaching the door for the master bedroom. But unfortunately, two more guards were guarding it.
It made sense, but nevertheless it would be slightly inconvenient for Tatsumi.
But maybe, he might as well try to enter through the door, perhaps it was that simple.
He approached the door.
"Woah there, what do you think you're doing?"
Unfortunately, it would not be so simple.
Tatsumi thought of a response.
"Are we not allowed to enter the master bedroom?" he asked, cluelessly.
"Are we not…Are you serious?"
The second Guard raised an eyebrow, "He's probably new or something."
"Well either way, it's common sense, if you wake Sir Reginald up we'll be in all sorts of trouble."
Interesting, he was asleep. Supposed he's not the type to wait for the wife.
"Right…I forgot to consider that." Tatsumi said, rubbing the back of his helmet.
"Really? Honestly, didn't they tell you this when you got hired?"
"I know, I guess I'm not thinking straight, I suppose."
"Well get your head out of the gutter, that kind of attitude can get him killed, what with the criminals and Night Raid and all that."
"I'll keep that in mind."
With that, he walked away.
He would have to find another way into the room, but before he would do so, he might as well see if Aria's room was guarded as well. If it was, it could be the beginning of a plan he had in mind.
It was only a short walk, but he could see the words "Aria" in cursive on the door. That would mean it indeed led to her room. And her room was, as Tatsumi expected, guarded by two more guards.
Perfect. It would mean that, given the opportunity, he could commence his plan. If it worked, he could kill Aria and make his way to the torture chamber at the same time.
He walked back to the location of the master bedroom. He needed some way in, and he could only think of one other alternative.
He went to the next room over, and luckily, there was a window.
Opening the window, he hurdled over the ledge and hung on to the edge of the wall. Feeling the cold breeze hit his back, he began to shimmy his way to the master bedroom.
"Wow, this dude is something else."
It all seemed so…secret agent like. All calculated and patient. And his personality fit that mold as well. Leone couldn't believe she hadn't noticed it before, but throughout the entire mission he didn't appear phased by anything. Not when he killed the guards, not when he was almost caught, and not when he killed the wife. Even Akame would look slightly stressed, but man, this guy looked fearless. It was very impressive, it seemed her worry was misplaced earlier, he was doing an excellent job.
Looking back into her binoculars, she could see Tatsumi just arriving at the edge of the master bedroom.
She smiled at this, knowing what will happen next.
Tatsumi opened the window and climbed his way inside.
Tatsumi carefully entered the master bedroom, the cold air entering the warm space within. On top of the king-sized bed, snoring loudly within the large room, was the peacefully sleeping Reginald, tucked in and far too tired to wait for his wife to join him.
Tatsumi took out his sword, slowly approaching the man on the bed.
But then, Reginald began to slightly shiver.
He stopped and felt the cold air that filled the room from the open window he left.
The man's shivering caused him to stir in his sleep.
Without a moment's notice, Tatsumi quickly closed the open window.
And the man no longer stirred and fell fast asleep once again.
Interesting…Could he use this?...
…
…
…
…
…
…
Yes, it would be perfect for his plan.
He reopened the window, huge enough to allow more cold air to enter.
And as according to plan, the man began to shiver once again.
Tatsumi assumed his position inside the wife's wardrobe.
Reginald continued to shiver, and soon he began to grumble, and finally.
"…..hm?"
He woke up.
"Oh dear…why is it so chilly?"
He awoke from his slumber, noticing his wife was still not present.
"Still must be in her study, I swear she's just as worse as Aria. Now why is it so cold?"
Looking around the empty room, he saw the reason.
"Oh for heaven's sake. How did this happen?"
Grumpy, he slowly got out of bed.
"Of all the things that can wake me up, I thought I told the maids to close the window."
Making his way to the window, he completely missed Tatsumi exiting quietly from the wardrobe.
In front of the window, Reginald could feel the cold embrace of the night.
"I swear, sometimes I wonder why-"
*SHOVE*
He suddenly tipped forwards.
A hand.
It was two hands.
One that shoved him forward.
The other lifting him from his feet over the ledge.
"W-What theeaaaaAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAH!"
*SPLAT*
"W-WHAT THE?!" screamed a guard from the ground.
Tatsumi can see more guards from the ground rushing to the scene.
And from the distance, he can vaguely see a writhing Leone…most likely due to laughter.
"H-HOLY CRAP, WHAT THE HELL WAS THAT?!"
"OH SHIT, IS THIS AN ATTACK?!"
Tatsumi quickly walked to the master bedroom door and knocked.
*KNOCK KNOCK*
"Huh?"
He heard from the other side. He quickly hid back into Julia's wardrobe.
The door opened and the guards came in.
But to their horror, they saw no one inside.
"W-What the?!"
They rushed to the bed.
"What happened?" said the other guard.
"He's not in here, Sir Reginald's not here!"
"HEY! WHO THE HELL'S UP THERE?!"
They heard a yell from the open window.
The second guard hurried to the window to see who called.
"What's going….OH GOD!"
He saw the blood and the large body of Reginald on the ground.
"What?!" yelled the first guard.
"HE'S…HE FELL OUT THE WINDOW!"
"WHAT?!"
Now the first Guard made it to the window and saw the horror that was the man they were supposed to protect outside the window, dead on the ground.
"Crap! Is this an attack?!"
"It could be!"
"What happened?"
They turned around. Another guard greeted them, the same young guard from earlier.
"I heard the commotion, is everything alright?" He looked at the bed, "W-Where is-?"
"He's dead, god damn it all," they saw the young man step back in shock.
"Get Lady Aria! Take her to the Guest Shed!" commanded the first guard to the younger guard, "We'll get Lady Julia."
The young guard nodded and rushed himself out of the room.
The two guards followed suit, leaving for the study room.
Laying cozily but not yet sleeping, Aria found it better to read her book, enjoying the romantic plot and blushing at the rather promiscuous scenes. If her parents found out she read such books they would be nothing but furious. But that mattered little to her, they always gave her privacy and the guards would not dare inform them to her parents, less they faced her wrath.
Her thoughts couldn't help but focus on the innocent Tatsumi, envisioning what she could do to the youthful soul as she eventually chained him to the wall. Oh, she could not wait, she always loved doing this with her family, it always brought them closer together.
But her fantasies were interrupted by three guards entering her room.
"Lady Aria, there's been an attack!"
Her heart skipped a beat.
"W-What?!"
It was so sudden she almost thought of it as a joke, but she couldn't continue this thought as the three guards approached her and gently grabbed her arm.
"Please, come this way, we don't know if you're safe here."
They left the room, dragging her along.
"W-Where are we going?!"
"The Guest Shed, it's the safest place right now!"
They ran to the stairs, and Aria's heart would not stop pumping from the suddenness.
"P-Please, tell me-"
"Oh GOD!"
Aria stopped her words and saw a guard run out of the study.
"SOMEONE! LADY JULIA'S NOT BREATHING!"
Aria's heart dropped.
"M-MOTHER!"
The three guards grew tense. This must be an attack!
"C'mon, they must still be here!"
They rushed her to the stairs, all the way down to the first floor.
What was happening. Was it a group of criminals? Was it terrorists?! Night Raid?! How did they breach security, the guards were supposed to be the best of the best?! How was this possible?!
Stepping outside, Aria can only briefly see the large pool of blood that was her father. Her mouth dropped open and her eyes widened in horror.
"F-FATHER!"
Her mother.
Her father.
The people that raised her.
Gave birth to her.
Loved her.
Dead.
She wanted to cry, but she was now far too scared.
"We're almost there!"
They were approaching the Guest Shed, the same shed where she tortures the very guests she brings in. Only this time, there was no fun to be found here.
"Hurry, let's enter the Shed and-"
*SPHHHLT*
Aria stopped. She turned around, her eyes widened from the horrific sound.
The young guard, who silently accompanied them, pulled out the sword that had been stabbed inside the guard who was trying to acknowledge their location.
"BASTARD!"
The second guard swung at the young man, but the boy merely moved to the side, completely dodging the attack. He then used the new opening to stab the sword into the opening of his helmet.
*SPHHHLT*
The sword was quickly pulled out of the face of the second guard as quickly as it has briefly entered.
Aria tripped over herself, seeing the young guard stand up straight once more.
"W-W-W-What?...Y-Y-Y….You just-?"
"PFFT-HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAAH"
She looked above and saw the figure of another person above the shed.
"Oh god! Man, you're just too funny!"
The figured jumped down, revealing to be a young woman with long blonde hair, lion ears and furry paws with deadly claws.
"But…oh my god…where do I even begin!"
She immediately approached the young guard.
"You just…Everything was…It was so fricken AWESOME!"
She suddenly hugged the guard, lifting him off the ground like a weightless feather.
"You literally fooled everyone! Played them like a fricken fiddle! Oh my god it's so funny!"
She started laughing some more.
"I thought you weren't allowed to interfere?"
The guard finally spoke in an even, calculated tone. It was as if he wasn't being manhandled by the blonde woman in front of him. But…his voice sounded so familiar to her.
"Aw who cares about that! Besides-"
She turned around, finally acknowledging her presence with cold, sadistic eyes.
"You're practically almost done…"
She smiled a sick, twisted grin that only promised pain and suffering.
The blonde approached her, causing Aria to crawl and escape.
"Oh no no no no no no no no NOPE!"
Harsh claws grasped her hair, causing her to yelp in pain.
"N-No! No please! Please!"
The blonde started to laugh once again.
"Look at her face, oh she's so scared, it's priceless!"
"Is that really necessary?"
"Aw c'mon lil' bro, lighten up. I know! Why don't you remove your helmet? Show her your face!"
"Why?"
"Why? Well duh! I want to see the look of betrayal! That cold, hard truth she didn't see coming! Think of it as…extra credit!"
What? What is she talking about?! Who is he?
The young guard stood silent, maybe pondering whether or not he should take off the helmet. But it didn't take long for him to decide. He unlatched the helmet and slowly took it off. And her heart threatened to break free from her chest.
"T-T-Tatsumi?!"
It was horrible, unthinkable, how could this be. He was so nice, so innocent, so naïve. But…he looked so…horrifying. His face was blank, his voice was cold, and his eyes…his god damn eyes…it was staring into her very being with nothing but complete apathy and disregard. Is this the same person?
"B-But…why?...Why?!"
She started to cry. Was this her fault? Is her parent's dead because of her? Is she going to die because she decided to bring him in? Was this an omen? No, how could she have possibly known!? Those bastards, that bastard. THAT BASTARD! HE TRICKED HER! HE TRICKED HER ENTIRE FAMILY! GOD DAMN HIM!
"YOU STUPID HICK!" She screamed bloody murder, "I SHOULD HAVE KILLED YOU WHEN I HAD THE CHANCE!"
"And the brat reveals her true colors," the blonde woman squeezed harder, causing her great pain, "I'll tell you what, how about we play a game."
W-What? A game!
"Tatsumi," she called, "Go in the shed, if there's any survivors, I won't kill the girl!"
W-What? I-Is she telling the truth! W-Will they really let her go! Oh my god! OH MY GOD!
"T-T-THERE IS!"
They both turned around, the blonde woman shocked that the girl spoke.
"W-W-We just…we capture two travelers almost a week ago," she spoke, "T-T-They should still be alive!"
…
…
…
…
…
…
The blonde woman smiled a happy smile.
"Thank you for being honest kiddo. Saves us the trouble."
She released her.
"As promised, I won't kill you!"
Aria smile a hopeful smile.
"Now," the blonde girl turned to Tatsumi, "Tatsumi."
The young man was right beside her.
"Please kill her for me!"
"W-WHAT!"
Tatsumi approached her.
"N-NO! PLEASE! NOOOOO-!"
*SPHHHLT*
And with one fell swoop, Aria, the youngest daughter of a family that takes pleasure in the torturing of innocent lives, dropped dead.
Leone smiles in approval.
"Nice job lil' bro, you killed her without hesitation!"
"I'm assuming your 'lil bro' nickname isn't going to stop anytime soon."
"Oh you are so damn right. I'd say you more than earned it."
She smiled, placing her arm over his shoulder.
"I think it's safe to say that you performed far greater than anyone I've ever seen before, sooooooo-!"
She spun around, moving in front of Tatsumi.
"I'd say, on behalf of the boss, 'Welcome to Night Raid!'"
She winked and raised her hand towards him for a handshake.
Tatsumi stared at the hand.
"Isn't it too early for that?"
"Oh please, even if we don't save whoever might still be alive in there, I'd say you still pass!"
Tatsumi stared for a bit longer, and shook Leone's hand.
"Nice!" she turned towards the shed, "Now, let's see…Let's see how 'alive' these survivors are."
They quietly made their way inside the shed.
And when they opened the doors, a new form of horror made itself known. Dead bodies pilled in cages, months of mold and decay riddling their bodies. The walls, covered in blood, made the entire shed reek of metal. Tools, still covered in blood and gunk, riddled the walls and tables. And in the center of it all, was a lone young woman, hung up from a chain.
Leone stood shocked, but quickly brought herself back to her senses. This wasn't something she wasn't used to, especially coming from the capital.
She quickly rushed to the winch that was holding the girl up.
Chopping the chain up was no problem for her, as the girl dropped roughly to the ground.
"Shit," she cursed, not meaning to hurt the girl anymore, if she was still alive.
She rushed to the girl and saw the full extent of her injuries. There were lash marks all over her body, some created with knives, some by swords, and some with a whip. It was tough to look at, for the girl looked to be as young as Tatsumi.
She felt her chest for any signs of life, and sighed.
The girl was dead.
"She's gone" she said sadly, getting Tatsumi's attention.
"We have a live one over here," he called back, "Male, mid-teens, maybe sixteen. Likely hasn't eaten in…six days. Also…"
He looked at his entire upper body, seeing splotches of red all over it. There was some on his right foot as well, likely spreading to most of his leg.
"He's infected with the Lubora disease. Likely infected the day they were captured by the family."
"Damn," Leone said, "I…I don't think we can save him."
"H-…ha…."
Tatsumi looked at the boy, beginning to breath out words.
"S…..Sa….Sayo…."
Tatsumi blinked and looked at the young woman the boy was looking at. They must be close friends, perhaps lovers? He didn't know.
"P….Please….kill me…It hurts."
Tatsumi looked at him with empty eyes. They both must have been through hell, and the boy knows he's about to meet his end very soon. He was impressed that the boy was barely hanging on, perhaps for the girl. At this stage he should have died days ago.
"Sayo…You were…so cool…"
He didn't know him, nor did he feel anything towards him, so whatever happened or would happen to him or the girl didn't mean anything to him.
However, he should at least put him out of his misery. It would be common curtesy.
Tatsumi immediately took out his sword.
*SPHHHLT*
And watched the tears run down the boy's eyes, before they slowly relaxed, and finally rested. Tatsumi closed the boy's eyes out of curtesy, stood up, and motioned to Leone.
She was looking at him with slightly shocked eyes, but the reaction would be short lived. She stood up quickly and made his way to him.
"Welp," she said, "I guess it's time to go."
Leone put her arm around Tatsumi and led him outside.
"It's a shame we couldn't save them," said Leone, "But even if they we're still alive, I…I honestly can't imagine what we could do with them."
Tatsumi agreed silently. It was strange that the boss would add this along with his mission.
"Still though, I've never seen anyone do what you just did before! It was fricken crazy! I can't wait to tell the others!"
"So, what happens next?" Tatsumi asked.
"Well, what happens next-" Leone suddenly lifted Tatsumi onto her shoulder, catching him off guard, "-is that I'm taking you to base! Got to get home quick so big sis can get some sleep!"
"Is carrying me necessary?"
"Yep, otherwise it won't be quick! Now, off we go!"
And with a powerful hop, Leone jumped from the trees, to the rooftop of the shed, onto the walls surrounding the complex, and finally onto the houses outside the capital. It would seem that Leone, having only met Tatsumi today, is already attached to him. But nevertheless, he was pleased that she is taking him straight to Night Raid, where he can finally put his skills to proper use. As he is whiplashed by the rough blonde from house to house, Tatsumi thought of the possibilities of jobs he would have to perform, and what kind of associates he would be working with alongside the blonde.
He only hoped they behaved much more…professionally then the blonde carrying him like luggage across the City he'll likely be working in for quite some time.