S2 - Chapter 13

Several days after Kurohime’s group returned, a hint of normalcy returned to the guild, though it was short-lived. Preparations for the journey to Valralor’s capital for the duel brought a fresh buzz of activity. For the past day, the guild packed supplies and finalized their travel arrangements. The group heading to the Valralorian capital included Akame, Fae, Suzuran, Yuzuki, Kasumi, Luna, and Nila.

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Nila had been reluctant to leave Akiko’s side. Though Akiko had regained some strength, Nila couldn’t shake her worry. Knowing Luna was accompanying them only added to her hesitance. She lingered in Akiko’s room as the group prepared, her tail twitching with uncertainty.

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“Nila, you should go with them,” Akiko said gently, her voice still weak from her recovery. “It wouldn’t be fair for Kasumi to go alone, and I have Gelina and my sister to help if I need anything.”

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“Aki, I’m scared,” Nila admitted, her ears drooping. “What if something happens while I’m gone? What if I’m not here when you need me?”

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“Aki?” Akiko tilted her head with a playful smile. “Since when did I get a cute little nickname?”

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Caught off guard, Nila stammered. “I… uh… I guess it’s just something I dreamed of for you. After, you know, our kiss… I thought it fit.”

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Akiko’s laughter rang out, light and melodic. Though it was still weaker than normal, it was full of warmth. She clutched her stomach as she chuckled, her body clearly still tender from her injuries. “You’re adorable,” she said, wiping a tear from her eye. “But seriously, Nila… go. If you don’t, I’ll be upset. No kisses for a week.”

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“What?! You can’t just deny me kisses!” Nila pouted, playfully swatting at Akiko’s arm. Despite her protests, she leaned against Akiko’s shoulder, sighing deeply. “It’s not that I don’t want to go. It’s just… I’m afraid. What if I don’t come back? What if I never get to see your smile again?”

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Akiko’s teasing softened. She gently cupped Nila’s chin, tilting her face upward until their eyes met. “You’ll come back,” she said firmly. “When you do, you’ll officially be a member of this guild. And this room? We’ll share it… together.”

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Nila’s heart swelled at the words. Unable to contain her excitement, she wrapped her arms around Akiko and attacked her face and neck with kisses.

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“Nila! Not yet!” Akiko laughed, blushing furiously. “Don’t get me so excited when I’m not even fully healed!” She pouted, earning a sheepish grin from Nila.

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“Alright, fine,” Nila relented, standing up. “I’ll get my things packed. But I’m holding you to that promise.” As she reached the doorway, Akiko cleared her throat.

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“Don’t you think you’re forgetting something?” Akiko’s eyes sparkled with mischief.

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Realizing her mistake, Nila rushed back to Akiko’s bedside. She perched on the edge of the bed, leaning in for a slow, passionate kiss. Akiko entwined her fingers with Nila’s, her other hand caressing Nila’s cheek. When the kiss finally broke, a string of saliva lingered between them. They stared at it for a moment before bursting into laughter.

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Still chuckling, Nila kissed Akiko’s hand before heading to the door. “Love you,” she said softly.

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“Love you too,” Akiko replied, her smile radiant as Nila left the room.

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Later that day, Nila confirmed to Akame that she would join the group. Luna spent the evening packing supplies onto the horses, while Suzuran and Yuzuki sparred outside, honing their skills one last time before the trip.

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Early the next morning, before the sun had risen, the group assembled in front of the guild hall. The journey to the capital would take three to four days, and they hoped for an uneventful trip. Akame stood beside her horse, adjusting her gear, when Yukari and Kurohime descended the steps to see her off.

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“You two are in charge while I’m gone,” Akame said as she secured her katana. “Make sure Akiko continues to recover.”

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Yukari and Kurohime both bowed. “We’ll make sure not to burn the place down,” Kurohime said with a chuckle.

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Akame mounted her horse, glancing down at them with a serious expression. “And for the love of the gods, don’t turn this into a sex-crazed village. If I come back to find out you did, I’ll have both your heads.”

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“Yes, ma’am!” Yukari and Kurohime replied in unison, their voices filled with worry.

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Satisfied, Akame nodded. “See you both soon.” With a final wave, she urged her horse forward, galloping to catch up with the group.

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The journey was as tranquil as the group had hoped, with the first two days passing without incident. By the third day, they reached the sprawling grasslands Suzuran and Yuzuki had traversed when they rescued Morye. Suzuran and Yuzuki didn’t realize this grassland extended this far towards the capital, but it showed how close they actually were when the incident happened. The endless green hills swayed under the midday sun, dotted with wildflowers and kissed by a soft, wandering breeze. For most, the scenery offered a soothing reprieve from the monotony of travel.

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Riding together on a single horse, Suzuran leaned forward, resting her chin on Yuzuki’s shoulder. Her arms slid around Yuzuki’s waist, holding her close as their horse slowed. “Suzu,” Yuzuki murmured, glancing over her shoulder. “What are you doing?”

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Suzuran’s lips brushed against Yuzuki’s ear as she whispered, “Nothing… you just look... delicious.”

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“Suzu…” Yuzuki’s voice was a mix of exasperation and yearning. “Didn’t we get this out of our systems before we left?”

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Suzuran chuckled softly, the sound low and teasing. “I just had a sudden urge,” she admitted, her lips trailing to the curve of Yuzuki’s neck. “I guess I’m still wanting you more after you had your fingers inside me.” Her teeth grazed Yuzuki’s skin, biting gently at the sensitive spots that made her shiver.

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Yuzuki’s grip on the reins faltered. “S-Suzuran,” she stammered, heat rising to her cheeks. “You… can’t just do things like this out here!” But her protests melted into soft moans as Suzuran’s hands slid lower, brushing over her thighs.

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Suzuran’s fingers inched closer to entering Yuzuki’s shorts, her touch sending waves of heat coursing through her. Yuzuki squirmed, her voice shaking. “Suzu, if you keep this up, I won’t be able to stay on this horse any longer… I’ll be on top of you.”

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Suzuran smirked against Yuzuki’s neck, her voice dropping to a sultry whisper. “Maybe… that’s what I want.”

Her hand slipped between Yuzuki’s thighs, applying just enough pressure to make her breath hitch. Her lips found Yuzuki’s ear, nibbling lightly as the heat between them became almost unbearable.

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The horse came to a full stop as if sensing its rider’s distraction. Yuzuki’s breathing grew heavier, her fingers trembling against the reins. Suzuran’s hand had already slipped into her shorts and and her fingers dangerously close to entering inside her, when Fae’s voice rang out from ahead.

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“Miss Suzuran! Miss Yuzuki! Why did you stop? Is everything alright?”

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The words cut through the tension like a blade, leaving Yuzuki frozen in place. Suzuran straightened almost immediately pulling her hand out of Yuzuki’s shorts, her expression shifting to one of feigned innocence. Yuzuki, on the other hand, was left flustered and out of breath, her cheeks burning red.

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Luna, riding closer, was the first to notice the telltale signs. Her gaze flicked between Yuzuki’s flushed face and Suzuran’s coy smile, and a knowing smirk spread across her lips. She raised a hand to wave Fae off before she could get too close.

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“They’re fine, Miss Fae,” Luna called out, her tone calm but amused. “They just stopped to let the horse rest for a moment.”

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“Oh, good! Make sure you catch up quickly, though!” Fae replied, oblivious to the situation as she turned her horse and trotted back toward the front of the group.

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As Fae disappeared from sight, Luna lingered, her smirk growing wider. She leaned slightly in her saddle, her voice dropping to a teasing tone. “I’ll make sure the inn has a private room ready for the two of you. But for now, try to behave yourselves until we get there.”

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Yuzuki buried her face in her hands with a groan. “Thank you, Luna,” she muttered, her voice muffled. “I don’t know how much longer I could hold out.”

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Suzuran pouted playfully, her hands reluctantly retreating to safer territory. “Fine,” she said with an exaggerated sigh. She leaned in for one last whisper, her lips brushing against Yuzuki’s ear. “I’ll make it worth your while later.” 

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Luna chuckled as she turned her horse to rejoin the others.

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Yuzuki exhaled shakily, her grip on the reins tightening as their horse started moving again. “Suzu, we're going to destroy the bed when we get to the inn.”

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After a few hours of travel, the sprawling capital came into view, its towering spires and bustling streets framed by the glow of the late afternoon sun. For some of the group, it was a welcome sight after months away; for others, it was a reminder of how much had changed since their last visit. Suzuran and Yuzuki exchanged glances, memories of their previous time here flickering through their minds. For Kasumi and Nila, it had been even longer, the nostalgia tempered by the knowledge of how different their circumstances were now.

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As the group passed through the capital’s gates and into the crowded streets, the air seemed to shift. Whispers rippled through the crowds, heads turning as their group passed. It became clear that while their presence drew some attention, it was Akame at the center of the conversations.

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Akame rode at the front, calm and composed as ever. The murmurs and glances didn’t seem to faze her in the slightest. Fae, riding close beside her, noticed the growing attention and smiled.

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“I see your reputation still rather large, even after all these years, Miss Akame,” she said softly.

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Akame returned the smile with a slight nod but chose not to respond, her focus remaining on the path ahead. The crowd continued to grow thicker, their whispers growing louder, and the noise of the capital seemed to amplify as they made their way deeper.

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Finally, they reached the Adventurer’s Guild headquarters. The grand building stood out even among the capital’s grandeur, its massive stone walls adorned with the emblems of countless guilds. Adventurers of all kinds crowded the entrance, lounging on the steps or coming in and out of the doors.

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As the group dismounted and made their way inside, the lively hum of conversation within the guild hall came to an abrupt halt. Every eye turned toward them. Suzuran and Yuzuki exchanged uneasy looks, the sudden silence feeling almost suffocating. Kasumi and Nila glanced around, their expressions a mixture of curiosity and unease, as they realized that the crowd’s attention wasn’t just on Akame, it was on all of them.

“Why do they all look afraid or annoyed with us?” Kasumi whispered into Nila’s ear, her voice barely audible over the murmurs in the guild hall.

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“I’m not sure…” Nila began, but her words trailed off as her eyes locked onto a shadowed figure seated in a dimly lit corner. The piercing green and orange eyes staring back at her sent a chill down her spine. The figure leaned forward, and recognition struck her like a thunderclap.

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“Rajen…” Nila growled, her voice filled with anger. Her ears and tail bristled, fur standing on end as a low growl rumbled in her throat.

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Kasumi followed her gaze, her eyes narrowing as she, too, spotted the towering man. Her ears flattened, and her tail flicked aggressively as she whispered, “That bastard…”

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Akame, noticing the shift in their attitude, glanced toward the corner and immediately identified the cause of their distress. Her voice was calm but commanding. “Calm yourselves, both of you. If he tries anything, I’ll handle him personally.”

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Though her words soothed them enough to avoid making a scene, Nila and Kasumi kept their heads low as they followed the group deeper into the guild hall. Akame, leading the group, reached the receptionist desk, where a young woman greeted them with a polite smile.

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“Good evening. What brings your group to the adventurers guild today?” the receptionist asked, her tone courteous but professional.

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“We’re here to confirm our scheduled guild duel tomorrow,” Akame replied, her voice steady and direct.

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“Ah, you must be with Crimson Moon. Please give me one moment.” The receptionist excused herself and disappeared into a backroom, leaving the group to wait.

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While the noise in the guild hall began to pick up again, Akame could feel Rajen’s eyes boring into her back from across the room. His group’s murmurs occasionally cut through the chatter, making it clear they were discussing things about them.

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Moments later, the door to the backroom reopened, but instead of the receptionist, another woman emerged. She carried herself with an air of authority, her movement confident and deliberate. Her curvaceous figure drew immediate attention, appeared to be in her mid-40s, her mature beauty accentuated by an almost angelic elegance.

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“Been a while, hasn’t it… Akame,” the woman said, her voice smooth.

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“Ah, Cylea. It’s been a very long time,” Akame replied, her expression unchanging but with a hint of tension in her voice.

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Cylea chuckled, her voice carrying an air of nostalgia. “You’ve grown into quite the woman. Last time I saw you, you were only this tall.” She gestured with her hand just beneath her chest, a mischievous glint in her eyes. The motion made her breasts bounce slightly, and she chuckled again, clearly amused.

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For once, Akame’s typical demeanor faltered. A faint blush rose to her cheeks as she recalled her younger years at the guild headquarters. At nineteen, she had been shorter and far more emotionally expressive. She vividly remembered Cylea’s teasing, especially the habit of resting her chest on Akame’s head whenever she snuck up behind her. It had been a constant source of irritation back then.

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Cylea smiled knowingly, “Everything is confirmed for tomorrow’s duel,” she said, her tone shifting back to business. “Once the duel is complete, the Guild Master would like a word with all of you.”

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Akame gave a curt nod. “Understood. We’ll be here.”

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As Cylea turned to leave, she glanced back with a playful wave. “See you tomorrow, sweetie.”

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Akame sighed and turned back to her group, regaining her composure. “Fae, Luna,” she said, her tone firm. “Take the others and find an inn. There are a few people I need to speak with before I join you.”

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“Of course, Miss Akame,” Fae replied with a nod. “There’s an inn down the path near the arena. We’ll head there and wait for you.” She gathered the rest of the group and led them outside.

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Akame waited until the others were out of sight before walking toward the table in the corner where Rajen and his group were still seated. As she approached, the chatter in the guild hall died down again, the tension turned thick.

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Rajen’s men stood as she drew near, their imposing frames forming a wall between her and their leader.

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“Stand down, you lot,” Rajen commanded, his deep voice carrying across the room. “I can handle this woman.”

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The men hesitated but eventually stepped aside, allowing Akame to come face-to-face with Rajen. He rose from his seat, towering over her with his massive build. Despite his size, Akame didn’t flinch. Her eyes locked onto his with unyielding intensity.

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“Rajen,” she said, her voice calm. “So nice of you to bring your handlers. Afraid you can’t manage on your own?”

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Rajen’s lips curled into a sneer. “Akame, Akame,” he drawled mockingly. “After I toss you aside tomorrow, I’m going to take back what’s mine… and I’ll take your precious sister too. She’ll make a fine, obedient wife.”

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Akame kept her composure. Her small smile turned menacing, her crimson eyes glowing faintly as she leaned in closer. “How can she be your wife,” she said, her voice low and cutting, “when I’ll cut you into tiny, bite-sized pieces? I’m sure my horses would love the treat.”

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Rajen’s smug expression faltered for a moment, her words striking a nerve. Though he quickly masked his surprise, his clenched fists betrayed his anger. Before he could respond, Akame turned and walked away, leaving him simmering in silence.

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Outside, Fae waited near the entrance. Spotting Akame, she waved her over. “Miss Akame! We got rooms at the inn near the arena. It’s a bit further down, but we managed to reserve a private one for Suzuran and Yuzuki as they insisted.”

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“That’s fine, as long as they can pay for it,” Akame replied, falling into step beside her as they made their way toward the inn.

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The roar of the arena crowd echoed through the streets as they approached, the sounds of an ongoing tournament filling the air. Akame glanced toward the towering structure, her lips curling into a small smile.

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“Tomorrow is going to be a very eventful day,” she murmured, her gaze lingering on the arena before they entered the inn.

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The following morning, most of the group gathered downstairs in the inn’s tavern to eat. Suzuran and Yuzuki were the last to descend, except for Akame, who remained in her room. As the pair joined the group at the table. Confidence practically emanated from them as they took their seats.

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“You two look like you had a good night’s rest,” Nila commented, eyeing them curiously. She had a mouthful of food and was reaching for her cup to take a drink.

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“You could say that…” Suzuran replied coyly, a sly grin appearing.

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Yuzuki, leaning back in her chair, smirked. “I bet she did. She spent almost a full hour sitting on my fa—”

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Suzuran reacted immediately, clapping a hand over Yuzuki’s mouth with a fiery glare. “Yuzuki…” Her tone carried the unmistakable weight of a scolding.

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Yuzuki’s playful expression quickly shifted to one of mock fear, her muffled chuckle betraying her amusement at Suzuran’s flustered state.

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Luna, seated toward the end of the table, chuckled softly, her smile warm and knowing. The rest of the group, however, was caught in varying states of confusion. Fae and Kasumi exchanged blank looks, clearly oblivious to the direction of the interrupted comment. Nila, on the other hand, froze mid-chew, her wide eyes fixed on Suzuran and Yuzuki. Her brain scrambled to fill in the blanks, and when realization struck, her jaw dropped. Juice sloshed onto the table as she fumbled to set her cup down, snapping herself out of her daze.

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“Nila? Are you alright?” Fae asked, noticing her flustered state.

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“Y-Yeah! I’m fine,” Nila stammered, quickly chewing her food and grabbing a cloth to clean up the spilled juice. 

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Fortunately, the rest of the morning passed without further incident. Akame eventually joined the group, quickly eating and then the team set off for the arena. The roaring crowd could already be heard as they approached the towering arena.

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Once inside, the group was led to a preparation room on the side of the arena. The thick stone walls muffled the noise outside, though the energy of the event.

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“Suzu, Yuzuki,” Akame began, her tone once again calm. “You know how to handle this fight. Just don’t kill them.”

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“Of course,” Suzuran replied with a smirk. “Although, I might enjoy this fight a bit since it’s been a while since I’ve had a good workout.”

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Yuzuki raised an eyebrow, her lips curling into a mischievous grin. “What do you mean, ‘a good workout’? We had a great workout last night.”

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“Yuzuki!” Suzuran’s face turned red as she reached out to silence Yuzuki, her hand covering her mouth in a futile attempt to stop the teasing.

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Akame sighed, pinching the bridge of her nose. “Alright, you two. Have fun if you must, but if things get tricky, finish it quickly.”

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“We will,” Yuzuki said with a nod, her eyes still sparkling with mischief as Suzuran playfully swatted at her.

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The rest of the group headed to the stands to find their seats. The noise was deafening as the audience’s excitement continued to grow. Akame, taking her seat with the others, scanned the crowd. From the murmurs and whispers around them, it was clear that much of the audience had been fed false information about their guild. She smirked to herself, unfazed.

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Soon, a small group of Adventurer’s Guild representatives entered the arena. Akame’s sharp eyes caught an unusual detail, some of the officials were armed.

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“He actually showed up for this,” she mused aloud.

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“Who do you mean, Miss Akame?” Fae asked, her curiosity piqued.

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“The guild master himself. Caldur,” Akame replied, her tone carrying a hint of respect.

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The revelation sent ripples of surprise through Fae, Kasumi, and Nila, all three exclaiming in unison, “The guild master?!”

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True to Akame’s prediction, two heavily armored guards emerged from an arena tunnel, flanking an older man who radiated authority. Caldur’s tall, broad frame was tempered by age, his silver hair and well-worn features giving him an air of both wisdom and strength. Despite his years, his muscular build hinted at a life spent on the front lines of battle. The crowd erupted in cheers as he ascended the announcer’s platform, his presence commanding the attention of all.

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“Good morning, my friends and fellow adventurers!” Caldur’s voice boomed, amplified by magic. “Today, we witness a rare spectacle. Our first guild duel in over a decade, I promise you an unforgettable show!”

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The audience roared in approval, the sound reverberating through the arena like thunder. Guild duels were exceedingly rare, and the prospect of watching two S-Rank adventurers clash in a non-tournament setting was almost unheard of.

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“The first part of the duel will feature a team battle! Two members from Abyss will face two members from Crimson Moon!” Caldur announced, his words whipping the crowd into a frenzy.

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From Abyss’s side of the arena, two figures stepped into the sunlight. The first was a hulking human warrior clad in heavy armor, his sword strapped securely to his back. The second was an elf mage with flowing robes and a glimmering staff.

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“First, we have Duran, a formidable warrior and loyal ally of Rajen!” Caldur declared, his voice brimming with enthusiasm. “And beside him, the stunning ice mage, Mylris—renowned for her precision and mastery of magic!”

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The crowd erupted once more as the two took their positions, their confidence was visible.

In the tunnel on Crimson Moon’s side, Suzuran and Yuzuki exchanged a glance.

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“They really are putting a lot of details in these introductions,” Suzuran remarked.

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Yuzuki chuckled. “Let’s see if we get the same treatment.”

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As the pair stepped into the arena, cheers erupted from a small section of the stands. Suzuran and Yuzuki turned to see Fae, Luna, Kasumi, and Nila waving enthusiastically, their voices cutting through the crowd.

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“And now, representing the newly founded guild led by the Crimson Oni herself, we have two extraordinary women!” Caldur announced.

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The crowd’s energy dipped slightly, their cheers quieter as curiosity replaced fervor.

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“First, the fearless Amber Oni, Suzuran! A new S-Rank adventurer, known for holding her own against the Crimson Oni herself!”

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The crowd’s reaction was mixed. While there were some cheers, a notable portion of the audience remained subdued, unfamiliar with Suzuran’s exploits. Suzuran couldn’t help but notice a few whistles from men in the crowd, drawing an annoyed sigh from her. Akame had warned them of this possibility—Crimson Moon’s reputation was still new.

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“And to her right, the lethal and alluring assassin, Yuzuki—a former member of Valralor’s own Assassin’s Guild!”

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The declaration stunned the crowd into silence. Murmurs spread like wildfire, the revelation sending ripples of shock through the audience. Yuzuki stiffened, her sharp ears catching snippets of their whispered discussions.

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"How in the world does he know that?!" Yuzuki voiced to Suzuran in a slight panic.

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Suzuran glanced back at Akame, her concern obvious. To her surprise, Akame appeared completely unfazed. She nodded at Suzuran, silently conveying reassurance.

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“Akame doesn’t seem worried,” Suzuran said softly, turning to Yuzuki. “Let’s just go with it.”

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Yuzuki exhaled, her composure returning.

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Caldur’s booming voice interrupted their thoughts. “Participants, to your positions!”

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Suzuran and Yuzuki moved back to their marks, mirroring the Abyss team’s stance on the opposite side of the arena.

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“Let the duel begin!” Caldur shouted, his voice drowned out by the deafening roar of the crowd.

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The action began immediately. Mylris launched a massive icicle directly at Suzuran and Yuzuki, the sharp projectile hurtling toward them with deadly speed. Duran charged behind it, using the icicle as cover to close the distance.

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Suzuran and Yuzuki split apart, each dodging in opposite directions as the icicle smashed into the ground between them. The maneuver effectively separated the two, forcing Yuzuki to fight against Duran.

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“I’ll play along for now,” Suzuran thought, weaving through a flurry of smaller icicles. “Let’s see what they’ve got.”

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Mylris proved herself to be a skilled ice mage, weaving her spells with precision and creativity. Initially, her attacks were straightforward—shards of ice flying toward Suzuran with relentless speed—but she soon adjusted her strategy. A shimmering mist began to form around her, obscuring her movements and projectiles while leaving her own vision unimpeded. Twice, Suzuran narrowly avoided being struck, the glistening ice grazing past her. But her instincts kicked in, and she began attuning herself to the subtle shifts in the air, raising her senses to anticipate the hidden attacks.

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Meanwhile, Yuzuki danced around Duran with practiced ease. The hulking warrior’s swings were powerful but lacked finesse, making them easy to avoid. What caught Yuzuki’s attention, however, was his peculiar grappling technique. He lunged and grabbed with unsettling precision, aiming to pin her down. His armor was adorned with bones, an unsettling collection that ranged from monster fragments to what Yuzuki suspected were human remains. The sight made her stomach churn as she thought about the guild members Kasumi and Nila had spoken of, wondering if these trophies were taken from some of them.

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“Stop dodging, girl, and let me crush that pretty face of yours!” Duran barked, his voice filled with irritation.

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Her casual dodges and counters only served to enrage Duran further. Every time he lunged, she tripped him with her kusarigama’s chain or sent him stumbling with a quick swipe to his armor. The crowd chuckled at his floundering attempts, but Yuzuki remained focused, using the mockery to throw him further off balance.

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“You bitch! Stop playing around and fight me!” he roared, spit flying as his frustration boiled over.

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“Why should I?” Yuzuki shot back, her movements fluid as she stayed just out of his reach. “You’re not even worth my time.”

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Duran snarled, his bloodshot eyes darting in another direction. “Hey, Mylris! Swap with me! This one’s a pain, but that oni girl you’re fighting... her nice body’s just begging to be crushed.”

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That vulgar comment was a mistake. Yuzuki’s expression darkened, her smile vanishing as her anger surged. In an instant, she was behind Duran, her chain coiling around his ankle. With a mighty yank, she slammed him face-first into the ground, the impact echoing across the arena.

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“Get the thought of her body out of your head,” Yuzuki growled, her voice cold and deadly. “Or I’ll cut yours off to remove it for you.”

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The crowd erupted in cheers, the first significant reaction of the match. Duran, dazed but furious, scrambled to his feet, wiping blood from his mouth. “You damned bitch,” he spat, aiming the words and the blood in her direction. “You’ll pay for that.”

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“Try it,” Yuzuki said, her voice sharp and unyielding. “But keep your focus on me, or I’ll do it again.”

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Across the arena, Suzuran and Mylris were locked in their own escalating duel. Suzuran darted in close, her blades aiming for quick, precise strikes, but Mylris skillfully deflected each one with her staff. It wasn’t a simple staff, its silvery sheen and durability marked it as something far stronger.

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“Mithril,” Suzuran mused, dodging another counterattack. It made sense; the elves of Valralor were known to have access to mithril ore.

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Mylris stepped back, summoning a new spell. Above her, dozens of icy spears materialized, hovering ominously before being thrown toward Suzuran in a deadly barrage. This time, Suzuran didn’t dodge. Instead, she stood her ground, her blades flashing as they met the oncoming assault. With each strike, amber light burst forth, illuminating the icy mist surrounding her as shards and spears shattered against her relentless defense.

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“Time to stop wasting energy,” Suzuran muttered, her focus sharpening. She could see Mylris’s exhaustion beginning to show—her breaths coming faster, her shoulders tense. Suzuran allowed the mist to settle around her, standing still and letting the illusion of vulnerability take root.

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Mylris smirked, certain she’d gained the upper hand. “That should do it,” she whispered to herself, thinking her barrage had at least wounded her opponent. But before she could prepare her next spell, a blur of amber light shot through the mist, closing the distance in an instant.

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Suzuran’s blades struck Mylris’s staff simultaneously. The force of the blow sent vibrations up her arms, the mithril cracking under the pressure.

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“You’re kidding me?!” Mylris gasped, her confidence faltering as she stared at the damaged weapon. Her eyes met Suzuran’s, and the calm, detached gaze she’d seen earlier was gone. In its place burned an intensity that sent shivers down her spine.

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Before Mylris could react, Suzuran’s next strike shattered the staff completely. The impact sent Mylris stumbling backward, only for Suzuran to deliver a devastating kick to her stomach. The elf hurtled across the arena, crashing into the wall with a resounding boom. Dust and debris filled the air, and when it cleared, Mylris lay unconscious, a crater marking the point of impact.

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The crowd roared in approval as a white flag was raised, signaling Mylris’s defeat.

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Akame, watching from the stands, smiled faintly as she glanced toward Rajen. His fists were clenched so tightly that his knuckles had turned white, his frustration evident. The members of Abyss seated near him exchanged uneasy looks, fear creeping into their expressions. They knew the implications of losing to Crimson Moon.

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In the stands, Nila and Kasumi exchanged relieved smiles.

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“We might actually win this, Nyla!” Kasumi whispered excitedly, her tail swishing.

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Nila nodded, her eyes fixed on the arena. “Maybe one day Akiko and I can fight like that,” she thought to herself, hope swelling in her chest.

​

Back in the arena, Yuzuki continued her relentless assault on Duran. Though his bulky frame absorbed much of the damage, her punches and chains were wearing him down. Each strike chipped away at his strength and patience, driving him into a blind rage.

​

“You bitch!” Duran bellowed, lunging at her again. “I’ll rip your head off—I only need your body anyway!”

​

Both Suzuran and Yuzuki froze at the vulgar declaration, their expressions twisting in disgust.

​

“Disgusting,” Suzuran muttered under her breath.

​

Duran charged wildly, abandoning all semblance of strategy. His blade clashed against Yuzuki’s kusarigama, but he quickly dropped it, opting for a raw, brutal punch. His fist connected with Yuzuki’s stomach, sending her flying. She gasped for air as she tumbled backward, but even in the chaos, she managed to wrap her chain around his arm.

​

With a sharp tug, Yuzuki yanked Duran off his feet, sending him careening past her and into the arena wall. The impact sent cracks spidering through the stone, and Duran slumped to the ground, dazed.

​

Suzuran rushed to Yuzuki’s side. “Are you okay?” she asked, her concern visible.

​

“I’m fine,” Yuzuki replied, catching her breath. “Didn’t expect him to get desperate so fast.” Her smirk returned as she added, “If you’re that worried, you could always kiss me.”

​

“Not in public,” Suzuran muttered, her cheeks filled with embarrassment.

​

Duran stirred, his body trembling as he forced himself to stand. “How about this,” Yuzuki teased, her voice low and sultry. “Finish him off for me, and I’ll go down on you tonight.”

​

Suzuran perked up, and she drew her blades with renewed vigor. “Does chopping his head off make you stay down there longer?” she quipped, her eyes gleaming.

​

Yuzuki laughed, “Unfortunately no. Akame would get mad if you killed him, remember?”

​

Duran roared, charging toward them with reckless abandon. But this time, Suzuran intercepted him. Her blades cut deep into his legs, severing tendons and rendering him immobile. He collapsed to the ground, yet still crawled toward Yuzuki, his rage undiminished.

​

“Bitch…” he wheezed, his voice heavy with pain and exhaustion.

​

Suzuran appeared behind him in a flash, her foot slamming his head into the dirt. The force of the blow created another small crater, and Duran’s body went limp.

​

The second white flag was raised at the announcers platform. “This fight is over! The winner is Crimson Moon!” Caldur declared, his voice cutting through the arena.

​

The crowd erupted in cheers and applause, their enthusiasm marking the end of a battle well fought.

​

“Now onto the final part of this fight!” Caldur’s voice boomed across the arena, amplified by magic. “You’ve all been waiting for this—Rajen versus Akame! Both combatants, please make your way to the center of the arena!”

​

The crowd erupted in excitement, the roar of their anticipation shaking the very ground.

​

“Well then, it’s my turn. I’ll see you all soon,” Akame said, rising from her seat.

​

“Good luck, Akame!” Nila and Kasumi called out in unison.

​

“Best of luck, Miss Akame,” Fae and Luna added with equal sincerity.

​

As Akame moved toward the arena, she crossed paths with Suzuran and Yuzuki, who were on their way back to join the others in the audience.

​

“Good job, Suzu,” Akame said, pulling Suzuran into a rare and heartfelt hug.

​

Suzuran grinned, returning the embrace enthusiastically. “Thanks, Akame.”

​

Akame then turned to Yuzuki, offering her the same embrace. “You too, Yuzuki. Excellent work from both of you.”

​

“Good luck in your match,” Suzuran said, holding Akame a moment longer. “And don’t get too cocky in there.”

​

Akame smirked, her eyes glinting. “I won’t. I just want to teach someone a lesson.”

​

As Akame descended further into the arena, Suzuran and Yuzuki took their seats with the rest of the group.

​

“Miss Suzuran and Miss Yuzuki, you both performed wonderfully,” Luna said, a hint of awe in her voice. “It’s been a long time since I’ve seen such confidence and skill in combat.”

​

“Thanks, Luna,” Yuzuki replied with a warm smile. She knew how skilled Luna was from their sparring sessions back at the guild, making the compliment all the more meaningful.

​

Luna’s curiosity finally got the better of her as she turned to Fae. “Miss Fae, I don’t know much about either Rajen or Miss Akame. I’ve heard their names before but never really read much about them.”

​

Fae’s face lit up with excitement as she began to explain. “Rajen is an S-Rank adventurer from the Abyss guild. Officially, he’s not the leader, but their actual guild master hasn’t been seen in years. Apparently, Rajen is the only one who communicates with him, so he more or less runs Abyss now.”

​

Luna nodded thoughtfully, intrigued by the dynamics of the opposing guild. “And Akame?”

​

“Akame has been an S-Rank adventurer since she was nineteen, making her the youngest S-Rank at the time,” Fae said, her admiration evident. “Now, that title is shared with Miss Suzuran. Most of Akame’s achievements are shrouded in mystery, though. Aside from a few documented feats like defending royalty and thwarting major bandit raids, no one really knows the full extent of her exploits. However, Caldur himself personally appointed her as S-Rank, which means she must’ve done something extraordinary to earn his recognition.”

​

Luna’s eyes widened in awe. “She really is amazing.”

​

Fae nodded. “Many who’ve seen Akame in action don’t question her rank. But there are always skeptics who argue that she doesn’t deserve the title because of how little is publicly known about her.”

​

Luna glanced toward the arena, a newfound appreciation in her eyes. “So this duel serves multiple purposes—to protect Miss Kasumi and Miss Nila, and to prove Akame’s worth to the world.”

​

“That’s exactly it,” Fae agreed. “I think Akame’s decision to challenge Rajen was impulsive at first, purely to protect Nila and Kasumi. But she must’ve realized this was an opportunity to silence the doubters and showcase her abilities.”

​

As the group continued their conversation, a sudden commotion rippled through the crowd. A wave of excitement began at one of the arena’s main entrances and quickly moved toward their section. Heads turned as a towering, armored figure strode into view.

​

The figure exuded an overwhelming presence, with a giant blade slung across their back gleaming faintly under the sunlight. Every step commanded attention, and the crowd fell into awed whispers as the mysterious figure approached the group.

​

Luna’s instincts flared. The aura wasn’t hostile, but its sheer intensity made her step forward protectively. “Get behind me, Miss Fae,” she said urgently, her hand resting on the hilt of her blade as she rose from her seat.

​

Suzuran, however, remained calm, a soft smile spreading across her face. “It’s alright, Luna,” she said, rising slowly and walking toward the armored figure. The two stopped mere feet apart, staring at one another in silence. Then, much to everyone’s shock, Suzuran broke into a genuine smile and threw her arms around the towering figure.

​

“It’s been a very long time, Mr. Sunder,” she said warmly, her voice filled with nostalgia.

​

Gasps erupted from the surrounding crowd. The name 'Sunder' was whispered with reverence. The figure standing before Suzuran was none other than Sunder, one of the most legendary S-Rank adventurers in Valralor. Renowned as one of the top three S-Ranks, his feats were immortalized in songs sung across taverns and courts alike. Sunder’s presence alone was seen as a privilege to witness, and his rare appearances always left lasting impressions.

​

The only things known about him are what are told in the songs and stories. Though assumed to be human, he showed no signs of aging, despite being at least 80 years old according to the ballads. No one had ever seen his face, as he never removed his armor, and he spoke so rarely that his voice had become something of a myth.

​

“Little Suzu… I’m glad to see you’re well,” Sunder said, his deep voice resonating through the stunned silence.

​

“Miss Suzuran?!” Fae blurted out, her hands shaking in disbelief. “How do you know Sunder?!”

​

Suzuran giggled, her arms still wrapped around the giant figure. “I’ve known Mr. Sunder since I was nine years old.”

​

The group’s astonishment deepened as Suzuran began to explain.

​

“Three years after we moved to Opal’s Reach, Akame was training in the fields near the town. She was working as a mercenary at the time, but something was holding her back from joining the Adventurer’s Guild. One day, Sunder showed up, escorting someone important. He met Akame at the town’s entrance, and they ended up sparring. After that, he decided to stay for a while and train her.”

​

Sunder remained silent as Suzuran recounted the tale, his imposing presence seeming to soften slightly in her company. The crowd continued to murmur, the legend of Sunder now tied to the new guild in a way no one could have predicted.

​

For a year, Sunder remained near Opal’s Reach, training Akame in the forests just beyond the town’s borders. Despite his imposing figure and reputation, he kept a low profile, rarely stepping foot into the town itself. Only a handful of people, including the mayor, knew his location, and they kept his presence a secret. Kurami had met him only once, dismissing him as just another adventurer passing through.

​

During his time there, Sunder’s bond with Suzuran grew. When he wasn’t training Akame with rigorous discipline, he spent his time playing with Suzuran, acting as a gentle and protective father figure. Toward the end of his stay, he began teaching Suzuran the basics of combat, imparting wisdom and techniques that would later form the foundation of her unique fighting style.

​

The group listened intently to Suzuran’s story, their amazement mirrored by the stunned audience nearby. To see Sunder, a legendary figure, not only speaking but sharing such a deep connection with anyone was nothing short of astonishing.

​

“How have you and your sister been, little Suzu?” Sunder’s deep, gentle voice broke the silence, resonating with a paternal warmth.

​

“Very good recently,” Suzuran replied, her smile radiant. “Akame started her own guild, and my girlfriend and I joined it.”

​

Sunder’s helm tilted ever so slightly as he glanced toward Akame, now standing poised at the center of the arena. He returned his gaze to Suzuran, lifting a massive armored hand to rest gently atop her head.

​

“You and your sister have grown into fine warriors,” he said, his voice carrying a rare tenderness. “I’m proud of you both.”

​

Suzuran beamed at his praise, leaning into the comforting weight of his hand.

​

Behind her, Yuzuki walked over and wrapped her arms around Suzuran’s waist, resting her chin on her shoulder. “Suzu, Akame’s match is about to start. Sit down with me.”

​

Suzuran nodded, taking her seat beside Yuzuki. She glanced at Sunder, who remained standing like a sentinel. “There’s plenty of room here, Mr. Sunder, if you’d like to watch Akame’s match with us.”

​

Sunder paused for a moment before nodding. He carefully lowered himself onto the wooden bench beside Suzuran, the weight of his armor causing a faint tremor that rippled through the seating.

​

“I hope Miss Akame wins…” Nila said nervously, her ears twitching.

​

“Me too…nya” Kasumi added, her voice equally uncertain.

​

Sunder let out a deep, rumbling chuckle, a sound so rare it drew the attention of everyone nearby. “Akame will win flawlessly,” he said with absolute certainty. “This won’t even warm her up.”

​

“Why do you say that, Mr. Sunder?” Luna asked, her curiosity piqued.

​

“I can see it in her expression,” he replied, his tone calm yet knowing. “She isn’t taking this seriously. She’ll drag it out for the sake of a show.”

​

The group turned their attention to Akame, studying her calm and composed demeanor. Even from a distance, her commanding presence could be felt.

​

Suzuran laughed softly. “You’re right, Mr. Sunder. She’s not taking this seriously at all. You should give her one of your head taps later, like you used to, for letting this bad habit persist.”

​

As the group shared a quiet chuckle, loud chimes echoed across the arena, signaling the beginning of the next match.

​

“Let’s see what you’ll do, Akame,” Suzuran murmured, her eyes fixed on the arena floor.

​

Caldur returned to the announcer’s platform, his voice booming once more. “Ladies and gentlemen, the moment you’ve all been waiting for! Two S-Rank adventurers will now face off in the final bout!”

​

The crowd erupted into deafening cheers.

​

“Representing Abyss—Rajen!” Caldur announced, gesturing toward the towering wolf-kin, who flexed his muscles and let out a feral roar. His guild members, seated behind him, halfheartedly cheered, their voices betraying a sense of obligation rather than genuine enthusiasm.

​

Rajen’s reputation as a brutal fighter was well-known. A wolf-kin like Yuzuki, he was infamous for his lightning-infused attacks and merciless combat style. His strength and speed made him a formidable opponent, but his habit for unnecessary cruelty left many wary of him.

​

“And representing Crimson Moon, the Crimson Oni herself, Akame!” Caldur’s voice rang out as he gestured toward Akame.

​

The crowd’s reaction was mixed. While some cheered, others whispered among themselves, their excitement filled with uncertainty. Akame’s enigmatic reputation left many unsure of what to expect.

​

Rajen crouched into a predatory stance, his ears flattening as he prepared to pounce. Akame, by contrast, stood motionless, her hand resting lightly on the hilt of her katana. Her expression remained calm, her crimson eyes unblinking.

​

“Fighters ready? Begin!” Caldur shouted.

​

Rajen vanished in a blur of speed, reappearing behind Akame with a lightning-charged strike aimed at her head. But before his attack could connect, Akame had already unsheathed her katana, deflecting the blow with a precision so swift that none in the audience saw her move. The resulting clash sent a shockwave through the arena, causing the crowd to gasp.

​

Rajen staggered back but quickly lunged again, his gauntlets crackling with electricity. He reappeared behind Akame, aiming for her head once more, but she ducked under his swing, countering with a swift strike from her blade. The impact sent Rajen skidding backward, his footing momentarily lost.

​

“When are you going to fight me seriously, huh? Trash!” Rajen snarled, his frustration evident.

​

Akame said nothing, her silence unnerving him further. She began to pace slowly, her calm movements a stark contrast to his frenzied energy. Rajen growled and vanished once more, this time summoning a bolt of lightning that struck directly where Akame stood.

​

“Hah! Take that, trash!” Rajen laughed as smoke filled the arena, obscuring Akame from view.

​

“Miss Akame!” Nila cried out, her voice laced with panic.

​

The crowd roared in excitement, thinking the match might already be over. But as the smoke began to clear, a figure emerged—unscathed. Akame strode forward, her katana now resting casually on her shoulder. A menacing smile showed on her lips, her eyes glowing faintly.

​

“Was that even an attack, Rajen?” she taunted, her voice cutting through the noise.

​

The crowd fell silent for a moment, the weight of her presence washing over them. Rajen, visibly shaken, growled in frustration and summoned another bolt of lightning. The attack struck Akame directly, creating another plume of smoke and debris.

​

But once again, Akame walked out of the haze, untouched. This time, her katana lowered off her shoulder before she vanished completely. Rajen barely had time to react before a gust of wind from her blade sent him flying across the arena. He tumbled violently, crashing into the arena wall and leaving a crater in his wake.

​

The crowd erupted in a mixture of awe and disbelief as Rajen struggled to rise, his overconfidence now replaced with visible fear.

​

Akame rested her katana casually on her shoulder once again, her expression cold and menacing as the crowd buzzed in confusion. Rajen pushed himself to his feet, growling audibly, and charged at her again, his movements fueled by desperation and rage.

​

“You bitch! I’m going to kill you and take your sister for myself!” he roared, his voice echoing across the arena.

​

The taunt was a mistake. Akame’s eyes narrowed dangerously, her calm demeanor breaking for a split second as her gaze flared. In an instant, she vanished from sight. Before Rajen could react, Akame reappeared directly in front of him, her fist driving into his stomach with such force that he fell to his knees, blood spraying from his mouth as he let out a choking gasp.

​

Sunder, seated calmly in the stands, let out a small sigh. “She’s playing with her food again.”

​

Yuzuki glanced at him, puzzled. “What do you mean?”

​

“She’s not serious yet,” Sunder replied, his tone even. “This is a bad habit she developed when she trained under me.”

​

Rajen staggered backward, clutching his abdomen as Akame stood motionless, waiting for his next move. He leapt back and unleashed a powerful double-armed lightning strike, the bolt crashing down onto Akame’s position with deafening force. Smoke and debris filled the air, momentarily obscuring her from view.

​

This time, the crowd was quieter, a mixture of whispers and murmurs rippling through the audience. Many had begun to expect her unscathed emergence, though some still clung to hope that Rajen’s attack had been effective.

​

Rajen’s triumphant laugh broke the tension as he stood upright, convinced of his victory. His guildmates clapped hesitantly from their new positions on the sides of the arena, wary of the dangerously close strikes. But their celebration was short-lived.

​

A sudden burst of crimson slashes erupted from the smoke, sending a shockwave across the arena. Slicing through the air with incredible speed, Rajen barely managed to dodge, with one slash hitting his arm and leaving a deep, bleeding wound. His left arm hung limp at his side as the audience gasped, their attention now firmly fixed on Akame.

​

“What the hell was that, you damned bitch?!” Rajen yelled, clutching his injured arm.

​

Akame’s tone was calm, almost detached. “Just a basic slash. What’s the problem?” She began to advance slowly, her katana glinting ominously in the light.

​

Enraged, Rajen attempted to retaliate, but Akame wouldn’t give him the chance. She unleashed a series of rapid crimson slashes, each one carving through the arena with devastating power. Two of the slashes narrowly missed Rajen, their destructive force obliterating sections of the arena wall. The third struck his leg, slicing deep and rendering him unable to move quickly.

​

As Rajen struggled to regain his footing, Akame closed the distance in an instant, delivering a crushing uppercut to his stomach that lifted him off the ground. Before he could recover, she followed up with a powerful kick, sending him rolling into the arena wall. The impact left another crater, dust and debris flying into the air.

​

“Akame…” Sunder’s deep voice rumbled, his tone tinged with disappointment. “Bring those emotions under control.”

​

Suzuran turned to him, surprised. “What do you mean? She’s not showing any emotion.”

​

Sunder’s gaze remained fixed on the arena. “Little Suzu, the face you see now is a mask. She’s hiding her emotions. She always has.”

​

Suzuran was surprised, her attention shifting back to Akame. “She has opened up more recently,” she said softly. “She cried to me for the first time in years.”

​

Sunder seemed momentarily surprised but nodded approvingly. “That’s good to hear. But hiding emotions is a habit she needs to break. It makes her seem colder—more menacing—than she really is.”

​

In the arena, Rajen clawed his way back to his feet, using the last of his strength to summon one final attack. This time, the lightning crackling around him was a blend of purple and blue, its intensity far greater than before. The bolt hurtled toward Akame, but she deflected it effortlessly with her katana, redirecting the strike into the ground beside her.

​

“Unbelievable… just what kind of monster are you?!” Rajen shouted, his voice laced with fear and desperation.

​

Akame smirked, her crimson eyes glowing with a dangerous light. “Let me show you.”