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Uptie Story: Kurokumo Clan

The meeting from one end continues relatively smoothly.
Of course, just as it was said before, a meeting between the subsidiaries is not exactly the most civil. Such is the nature of the City.
From another side, the acting Captain of the Kurokumo Clan was sitting, listening to every bit of the conversation. Next to her was a Wakashu, who, despite being a rank below her, was considered a dear friend.
Tepuu Family Henchman Tepuu Family
We are not going to deny that several merchants had to leave in a hurry, but it was certainly the cause of the Nekomata's influence...!
Nekomata Mafia Henchman Nekomata Mafia
So you're throwing the blame back at us?
The Knots Henchman The Knots
...Again, The Knots does not wish to be a part of this argument.
It was becoming evident for this child however, that the discussions were going in circles to the point of becoming grating.
He's not one to protest, especially not in front of the Captain.
Still...
Kiya Kurokumo Clan
They're really going at it, aren't they.
From the corner of the child's eye, he can see the Captain's lips curl up very slightly, before putting a fist to cover her mouth.
Kiya Kurokumo Clan
Forgive me, Captain. I did not mean to speak out of line.
Ishmael Kurokumo Clan Captain
Honestly, it's not that.
Her eyes dart around with suspicion, knowing something the child does not.
Ishmael Kurokumo Clan Captain
The Nekomata Mafia's numbers in this meeting are significantly lower than the last.
Ishmael Kurokumo Clan Captain
Same with The Knots.
Ishmael Kurokumo Clan Captain
No wonder those guys are trying not to throw themselves this time.
Kiya Kurokumo Clan
Hm. So you're saying...
Kiya Kurokumo Clan
There's some kind of plan, was it?
Kiya Kurokumo Clan
How many times did they ask where we were staying again?
Ishmael Kurokumo Clan Captain
About five times now?
Kiya Kurokumo Clan
....
Truthfully, this child was not as much of a flashy fighter like Heathcliff was. Where he stands, he's about average in terms of strength.
He could easily make up for it with quick wits, which always came in a pinch, even saving the acting Captain a few times.
Upon hearing there might be plans, he's quick to excuse himself.
Kiya Kurokumo Clan
I have to go.
Ishmael Kurokumo Clan Captain
You already know what to do.
Ishmael Kurokumo Clan Captain
I'll tell the others, okay?
Ishmael Kurokumo Clan Captain
Make sure you're ready.
Kiya takes a polite bow and rushes out quickly. If he could pass the time and hold the incoming attack off, it'll give the others some preparations.
Sneak attacks were quite common in the night time. Regardless of how good their forces may be, they never seem to suspect something from the air.
Their rivals could send all the assassins they want.
Assassin ???
What the?!
....But this child has been through enough surprises.
Blood splatters onto his skin, and the tattoos glow dimly in darkness. Piles and piles of bodies barely making a sound.
He was a silent killer.
His sword could cut through bone effortlessly. For the assassins, their pain was little to none. And death was quick.
Kiya Kurokumo Clan
Eugh, gross.
Kiya Kurokumo Clan
I really gotta cover up so I don't get it all over.
Kiya Kurokumo Clan
Wait...
His eyes widen all of a sudden. There was a miscalculation in his head. Kiya rushes upstairs, where his ears hear the sounds of clashing.
Kiya Kurokumo Clan
No.
Kiya Kurokumo Clan
Heathcliff...!
Rushing into the scene, his worries get the best of him, only to find Heathcliff dusting himself off.
Heathcliff Kurokumo Clan
I'm fine, darling. Just had a little bit of a surprise there.
Kiya Kurokumo Clan
D—?! Now is NOT the time!
Heathcliff Kurokumo Clan
What about you? You alright?
Kiya Kurokumo Clan
...I wasn't able to get here in time.
Kiya Kurokumo Clan
Have the others left?
Heathcliff Kurokumo Clan
Mm. If anything, you and I are the last ones here.
Heathcliff Kurokumo Clan
'rest are probably trying to recoup now.
Kiya Kurokumo Clan
Got a plan in mind?
Heathcliff Kurokumo Clan
Have had one since a while ago. Was really just luring them in.
Heathcliff Kurokumo Clan
Anywho, there's probably more coming downstairs, so...we oughta fight through before the Captain arrives.
Kiya Kurokumo Clan
Are you insane?
Heathcliff Kurokumo Clan
'Course I am. What do you take me for?
Kiya Kurokumo Clan
...Never mind. Let's just go.
Heathcliff's plan was to surely pave the way for the boss. An opening act before the main show.
The two of them have always worked together in support of their Captain.
Right now, it's looking dire, as more and more syndicate members show up.
Kiya Kurokumo Clan
Meet up with the others. I'll keep to the sidelines.
Kiya Kurokumo Clan
I don't exactly know what you're thinking, but...
Heathcliff Kurokumo Clan
I get it.
Heathcliff Kurokumo Clan
You're worried about big ol' Heathcliff.
Heathcliff Kurokumo Clan
I always promise you the same thing after every major battle.
Kiya Kurokumo Clan
Don't die.
Heathcliff Kurokumo Clan
Don't die!
Heathcliff Kurokumo Clan
That's one more to the pile, yeah?
A momentary wrap around Kiya's finger, and Heathcliff waves, running off into the battlefield with no sense of shame.
Kiya shakes his head. If something were to happen, neither of them will hear the end of it.
Looking out, he keeps his sword to the side, face just a little red.
Kiya Kurokumo Clan
...Whatever.
His mission isn't to stand out, but to serve. He can only hope to help the rest of his comrades through the corners.
Whatever the case, it will surely leave a mess.