Chapter 118: What Kind of Savage Words Are These?
Mahiro then proceeded to purge the Aria family mansion.
From the highest-ranking survivors among the household to the lowest guards, not a single soul escaped. All were disintegrated into dust.
It must be said, this decomposition magic was truly convenient—it left no stains on floors or carpets, making it an essential skill for lethal operations.
Unexpectedly, the initial antagonists who had originally kidnapped Tatsumi's trio had now targeted him instead.
Yet he had to thank them for kindly providing him with a perfect residence.
"...Master, are we really going to live here?"
The next morning, Mine watched her busy master with concern.
After all, occupying another's nest felt...
"What does it matter? Leaving it empty would be a waste anyway."
Mahiro was busy dealing with the hidden warehouse left by the previous owners. Its prison cells were piled with corpses of those who had died gruesome deaths—many already decomposing, filling the air with an overwhelming stench.
Most victims had been killed by the lady of the house during drug experiments, while the rest were young girls tortured to death by the master and Aria.
Fortunately, he had made Mine wait outside, or the girl might have fainted from terror.
"Ashes to ashes, dust to dust. May you all rest in peace."
Mahiro activated Mist Dispersion, reducing all corpses to dust. He then summoned a whirlwind with a cleansing spell, gathering all odors, filth, and dust before disposing of them in the forest beyond the courtyard.
A final cleaning magic completed the task.
Though the secret warehouse remained dim, it was now spotless.
He repurposed it as a storage room, casually tossing in several chests of gold coins for estate expenses.
After completing these tasks, Mahiro emerged and instructed Mine:
"Familiarize yourself with the mansion layout while I'm out. No cleaning should be needed for now, so just inventory the supplies."
"If anyone comes looking for the former residents, don't hesitate—eliminate them immediately."
Mine's combat skills were now unquestionable. Having helped him eliminate two guards the previous night, her techniques nearly matched those of Sheele from the original Night Raid.
She was a natural-born assassin.
"Eh? Master, you're leaving? Can't I come along? Staying home alone is..."
Mine trailed off, though her face clearly spelled out the word "boring."
She had only glimpsed a fraction of the Imperial City's bustle yesterday.
"Better wait. Unless you want to risk being lured away by street candy—I won't save you if that happens~" Mahiro teased with mock severity.
The ploy worked perfectly.
Recalling last night's events, Mine realized that without her master's intervention, she would have been toyed with and killed by Aria.
She had truly learned how treacherous human hearts could be.
Back in rural towns, villains at least wore their wickedness openly. But here, people hid daggers behind smiling faces!
At that thought, she couldn't help but shiver and quickly shook her head:
"Th-then I'd better stay at home... Master, if you have free time later, please don't forget to take Mine with you when you go out..."
"Don't worry, I will. But it's unlikely in the near future—I'll be very busy for a while. After this busy period, I'll take you out to have some fun. Of course, if you can improve your abilities a bit more, you could go out by yourself without any problems."
"Mm, Mine will remember. I'll work hard from now on and definitely surprise you, Master!"
Mine nodded vigorously, flames of determination burning in her pink pupils.
All for the chance to go out and play!
She really is such a child....
What Mahiro planned to do next was simple—he wanted to secure some official position to play with in the Imperial City.
After all, since he had come to this world, it would be too boring not to enjoy the pleasures of being an official. Moreover, with the impending conflict between the Empire and the Revolutionary Army, he naturally wanted to get involved.
So his choice was the Empire.
First, because it was convenient—the existing corrupt system could be utilized.
Second, he looked down upon these revolutionaries from the bottom of his heart.
He found them disgusting, even more repulsive than that Prime Minister Honest.
Joining forces with foreign races to invade and carve up their own homeland?
There were even rumors that in the later events of Akame ga Kill, the revolutionary force that replaced the Empire didn't last long before collapsing.
To put it bluntly, those revolutionaries didn't want to overthrow the Empire for the people's sake.
They simply coveted the minister's position, wanting to replace him and sit in that seat themselves, willing to use any means necessary—even selling their homeland to foreign races.
Truly nauseating.
And so, Mahiro came alone to the Empire's military recruitment office he had seen on the road yesterday.
On the earth-yellow brick wall was posted a notice reading "Empire Recruitment Point!" with over a dozen poor civilians and mercenaries waiting in line outside.
"The competition is really fierce," Mahiro murmured with a sigh.
Most people came here simply because they couldn't survive otherwise, wanting to secure a meal, or harboring some kind of ideal.
Otherwise, who would want to risk their lives for this terrible Empire?
The recruitment officer was a low-ranking Empire military officer in uniform, about forty years old, who appeared somewhat indifferent.
Whenever someone came to enlist, he would toss out the enlistment forms without even looking at them.
Even when it was Mahiro's turn, it was the same.
"You want to join the military too? Then fill out these forms first and hand them to me," the man responded mechanically.
"Wait, I'd like you to look at this first."
Seeing that Mahiro showed no intention of moving, the man was about to ask when he saw a letter placed before him.
Sealed with red wax, the emblem imprinted on the wax made the man's eyes widen in shock.
"This... this is...."
A Count's seal?!
The man quickly stood up and whispered something to the person beside him.
Then, after saying "Please wait a moment," he turned and hurried into the building.
After a short while, the man returned, but this time followed by an imposing, burly man who held the letter he had just presented.
The wax seal had been broken, clearly indicating it had been read.
The man scrutinized Mahiro for a moment before asking:
"Did you bring this letter of recommendation?"
"Yes, that's right."
This letter of recommendation had been written last night during a casual conversation with Aria's father, when he mentioned his intention to stay in the Imperial City to seek employment.
Though originally just a ploy to persuade him to stay, it was quite formal in format, with seals and signatures that could verify identity. He never expected that after being killed, it would be utilized by Yotsuba Mahiro.
"Hmm... Well then, come with me."
After a moment's contemplation, the man beckoned to him and turned back into the room.
Mahiro followed him inside.
Upon entering the room, he saw the burly man seated at the innermost desk, feet propped up on the desktop, reading the letter of recommendation.
On either side of him stood rows of guardsmen, standing at attention.
However, as Mahiro entered, the burly man gave a glance to his subordinates, who promptly left the office. The spacious room was suddenly left with only the two of them.
And the air thick with haze-like smoke.
"So, how's that old fellow doing these days?"
"Yeah, he's doing quite well."
"Hah..."
For some reason, the man suddenly sneered coldly, tossed the letter onto the table, and sat up straight to stare at him.
"Tell me, where did this letter of recommendation come from?"
"Naturally, it was given to me by that Count."
"You're lying." The burly man stared at him and declared emphatically, "That old fellow never writes letters of recommendation for anyone."
Mahiro smiled faintly. "But I'm different. The Count has taken me in as a live-in son-in-law and has even arranged to betroth Aria to me."
"Aria? Hahahahaha!"
Upon hearing the name, the burly man was momentarily stunned, then burst into deafening laughter. "If you're going to make up lies, at least make them believable! How old is that child? Betrothed to you?!"
"I know Aria is still young, but that's how the Count arranged it. He sent me to the Imperial City Guard for training first, and once Aria comes of age, we'll marry."
Mahiro shrugged, speaking as if it were a matter of fact.
Anyway, the person was already dead, so he could say whatever he wanted—there was no way to verify it.
This time, the man didn't speak again but simply stared at Mahiro, watching him intently as if trying to detect any flaws.
But from start to finish, Mahiro maintained a calm expression, and the faint, noble-like confidence he exuded made the man somewhat convinced.
"Fine, let's assume that's the case."
The man said languidly, leaning back again and crossing his military boots on the edge of the table.
His fingertips tapped idly on the armrest, as if urging for something. Seeing no reaction from Mahiro, he clicked his tongue in annoyance and spoke up:
"It's simple to secure an official position in our Imperial City Guard. With my authority, I could even appoint you as deputy chief."
"?"
Mahiro showed a hint of surprise. Did this person really have that much power?
"Heh heh."
Pleased with the expression on Mahiro's face, the man continued, "I forgot to introduce myself. I am the chief of the Imperial City Guard, directly subordinate to General Budo. You understand, right?"
Of course, he understood.
Although called a "guard," the Imperial City Guard was actually a department with real authority. Like the Imperial Palace Guard and the military, it was entirely under the jurisdiction of General Budo.
Moreover, the position of chief was almost on par with the generals under Budo and even allowed for audiences with the emperor.
"So, if you want an official position in the Imperial City Guard, a letter of recommendation alone isn't enough. You'll also need to demonstrate your 'capability.'"
"Understood."
Mahiro naturally understood what this "capability" meant.
If it were someone straightforward like Tatsumi, they would probably draw their sword to spar with this man, only to be driven out or, worse, arrested and executed.
But in reality, this "capability" was nothing more than money to be given to the man before him.
For Mahiro, this was a trivial matter. Right now, the one thing he wasn't short of was money.
In fact, anything that could be resolved with money was no issue at all.
So, with a light wave of his hand in front of the chief—
Thud!
A medium-sized box landed on the floor in front of them. Mahiro stepped forward, pried open a corner of the box, and lifted the lid.
Instantly, golden light shone upon the minister's face.
"Here are one hundred thousand gold coins. Is this level of capability sufficient?"
Hearing the figure of one hundred thousand and seeing the chest full of gold coins, a flash of greed instantly appeared in the minister's eyes. However, he straightened his posture, withdrew his gaze, and inquired:
"Are you a Teigu user?"
The ability to retrieve objects from thin air, in his impression, could only be achieved through mysterious Teigu.
Mahiro shook his head and said, "No, this is just a small trick of mine."
"Hmm..."
The minister immediately fell into thought.
No wonder that old man chose this kid as his son-in-law—he does have some skills.
He felt more certain about Mahiro's identity in his heart.
However...
"But, a mere one hundred thousand gold coins isn't enough to secure the position of deputy minister. You can only start as a lower-ranking squad leader."
"However, my father-in-law told me this was the price."
"Heh, that was the price before. The cost of things is different now."
"Is that so? What a pity, Minister."
Mahiro casually closed the lid of the chest and, under the minister's stunned gaze, put it away just as casually.
"One hundred thousand gold coins, as far as I know, can buy a rather luxurious mansion and courtyard in the Imperial City, and purchasing over a hundred high-quality female slaves wouldn't even be a problem. Yet, it can't buy a deputy minister's position. What a pity..."
"In that case, I'd better go back and discuss it with my father-in-law. I've heard the Imperial Assassination Unit next door is quite good too—they would definitely be interested in these one hundred thousand gold coins."
With that, he turned as if to leave.
"Wait! Wait, young man, don't be in such a hurry."
The minister, sweating profusely in his panic, quickly called out to stop Mahiro.
"What is it? Is the Minister willing to sell it to me now?"
Mahiro turned back, his face still wearing a faint smile, though this time with a hint of barely perceptible mockery.
Although he didn't care much about these gold coins—they weren't even a tenth of what was piled up in his mansion's warehouse—that didn't mean he would let himself be easily swindled.
"No... young man, let's discuss this properly."
At this point, the minister was truly sweating bullets.
Originally, seeing that he could produce so much money in one go, he had thought to fleece the other party, but he never expected this wasn't some easy mark—he was the type to just walk away!
No wonder that old man took this youth as his son-in-law—his composure is just too good.
"Alright then, out of respect for my friendship with that old man, I'll sell you the deputy minister's position. However, you must start as a squad leader first, then go to the military for a brief training period of two days. After you return, you can take up the deputy minister's position. How does that sound?"
"Of course, no problem. But can we skip the military training part?"
"No."
The minister sat back in his seat, shaking his head as he said, "This is something everyone who enters the security department must go through. It's a rule set by General Budo, and no one is exempt."
"Don't worry, though—the training isn't difficult. It's just a formality."
"Alright, then it's a deal."
"Good. In a moment, go outside and fill out the paperwork. Come back tomorrow to report, and someone will naturally take you there."
"Thank you for your trouble, Minister. My name is Yotsuba Mahiro. I look forward to your guidance in the future."
After saying this, Mahiro left the chest of gold coins behind and promptly turned to leave.
Seeing the door close once more, the minister breathed a sigh of relief. He left his seat and approached the box, opening it to gaze intently at the glittering golden treasures inside.
But recalling how Mahiro had maintained that calm and composed demeanor throughout, even remaining unfazed by the aura he had emitted, he couldn't help but sigh:
"What a terrifying little brat..."
If that kid really ended up joining the assassination corps, it would be a massive loss for him.
This was a hundred thousand gold coins... That damned bald guy probably couldn't wait to take the boy under his wing as a trusted subordinate!
In the evening, Mahiro returned to the mansion.
As soon as he entered, he spotted little Mine casually wiping the floor behind the corridor.
Why say casually? Her small hands were barely moving, staying in one spot.
"Mine, what are you spacing out for over there?"
Mahiro walked up to her and waved his hand in front of her big eyes.
"Ah!! M-Master, you're back!"
Finally seeing Mahiro return, Mine's spirits immediately lifted, and her face broke into a bright smile.
"Heh, I just went out to handle some business, and you've already polished the floor so brightly. What are you trying to do? Planning to give me a peek at your panties?"
Mahiro pointed at the mirror-like floor tiles, which clearly reflected the pink underwear beneath Mine's skirt.
Mine looked down and saw it too.
She quickly pressed down her skirt, her cheeks slightly flushed, and pouted: "Master, stop teasing me! I was just feeling bored."
"Besides, if you want to look, you could just come over and lift my skirt yourself. Why go through all this trouble?"
Good grief, what kind of outrageous talk was this?
Seeing that Mine was still at an age where she shouldn't be touched, he ultimately suppressed his improper thoughts and put on a stern face as he changed the subject:
"Bored? Have you finished the work I assigned you?"
"Yes, Mine has already familiarized herself with the mansion's layout and made an inventory of all the supplies. Would you like to see it, Master?"
"No need."
Mahiro waved his hand, feeling somewhat impressed.
This girl's work ability is really impressive... To have everything so well organized in just one day. Could it be that besides being an assassin, she also has talent as a housekeeper?
"Master?"
Noticing he seemed lost in thought, Mine called out softly.
"Ah, it's nothing."
Mahiro snapped back to reality and said: "Starting tomorrow, I'll probably be away from home for a few days. During this time, Mine, you'll be responsible for managing the mansion. See what's missing, and you can take the initiative to hire servants if needed."
"I understand."
Mine nodded her little head and made a mental note.
"But Master, are you really leaving?"
"Yes, it's probably just going through the motions with the security team's arrangements. I'll be back soon."
"Alright, Mine will wait for you at home..."
Though somewhat disappointed, the young girl expressed her understanding.