"Our search location is this way." Akame said.

Behind Akame was Tatsumi and Jotaro. They were walking through the empty streets of the Capital.

"It looks like the people here are too scared to come out at night anymore, huh." Tatsumi said, looking around.

Jotaro merely remained silent. No sooner than the return to base, they had been assigned another mission, one to kill a serial killer rumored to be plaguing the capital.

Zanku the Beheader, they called him.

Jotaro could barely sit through the briefing, considering the what had happened beforehand. After they were debriefed, they set out, but Najenda stopped Jotaro to talk to him about what had happened.

"I received information from the others, Jotaro." Najenda said. "About what you fought."

"..."

"Jotaro, what exactly can you tell me, about these vampires?"

"...all I'll say right now is that vampires have been plaguing my family for a damn long time."

"Jotaro, I wish to know-"

"I'll give the full story later. Just not now." He said.

Now, normally Najenda would have kept on pushing for more information, but she saw the look in Jotaro's eyes.

No, not the stern look he was known for. She sensed the sadness. There was a long and painful history for him.

"Very well." She relented. "But can you at least explain how to defeat them?"

"I doubt most people here can." He simply stated. "The only hope is to outlast them until the sun rises."

"What fearsome enemies..."

"And this is the type of shit my family has dealt with for a long time."

He left the room, leaving Najenda pondering just what Jotaro had gone through in his life.

"Jotaro?"

Jotaro snapped out of his thoughts as Tatsumi asked him.

"You were kind of out of it. You alright."

"It's nothing." He said, pulling his cap down and leaning against the wall. "I just need a quick breather."

Akame and Tatsumi sat on a bench nearby, as the former pulled out some snacks.

It was quite silent for a while. Tatsumi sweat-dropped at the awkward tension. Being with two of the most stoic members was kind of nerve-wracking, to say the least. Should he start a conversation?

Well, there was a question that he had been wanting to ask for a while.

"Hey uh, Akame?"

"I'm not giving you mine."

"No, that wasn't what I wanted to ask." Tatsumi said exasperatedly. "I wanted to ask... what are Teigu?"

Jotaro's gaze moved to Akame, wanting an explanation as well. Fugo seemed well-versed on this, as he had been in the world longer, but Jotaro still hasn't gotten the rundown.

"Things like this." She said, simply holding up her sword.

"That... doesn't really explain things." Tatsumi said.

Akame then delved into a much deeper explanation. Teigu were powerful weapons developed by the first emperor, around 1000 years ago. He knew that one day he would die, leaving his beloved country behind, but he knew that weapons and armor could be passed down. Legends say that they gathered materials from the most dangerous creatures, searched for the rarest minerals, and gathered the greatest scientific minds.

As a result, they created 48 deadly weapons. The Imperial Arms, or more simply, the Teigu.

While originally, they were used by the emperor's retainers, and they achieved greater military success than ever before.

But because of a huge civil war that broke out over 500 years ago, nearly half of the Teigu were lost.

"And all of you guys have these Teigu weapons, right?" Tatsumi asked.

"Correct." Akame confirmed. "Aside from the boss."

She went through them, one by one.

One Cut Killer, Murasame, her own weapon. A single cut from the blade injects a cursed and incurable poison.

Hundred-Beast-King, Lionelle, Leone's weapon. It transforms the user into a beast, raising the user's combat ability and senses.

Roman Artillery, Pumpkin, Mine's weapon. It gathers spirit energy and fires it in a concentrated shockwave, growing stronger depending on how much danger the user is in.

Demon Armor, Incursio, Bulat's armor. While it is an iron wall of defense complete with camouflage abilities, it puts a great strain on the user.

Infinite Uses, Cross Tail, Lubbocks's weapon. A large array of wires to trap and dismember enemies. It gained it's title thanks to how many different ways the user can utilize it.

Cutter of Creation, Extase, Sheele's weapon. A huge pair of scissors that can works equally for offence and defense.

But one "iron rule" has always been established.

If two Teigu users with the intent to kill clash, without fail, one of them will surely be a victim.

"In other words... if two Teigu users fight, one is sure to die." Akame finished.

"Huh, with that explanation, they're pretty similar to stands." Jotaro stated.

Tatsumi swallowed. "So... your sword... a single scratch and you die?"

He remembered how close he was to death, when he and Akame had first met, and let out a breath of relief.

"I've had this weapon for a long time." Akame said, looking at the handle of her blade. "It has become famous all over as a one cut kill demon sword."

"Well, that's to be expected, isn't it? It's invincible!" Tatsumi said.

"No, this sword has it's weaknesses." Akame said.

"Such as...?"

"You have to be extremely careful while sharpening it." Akame answered. "If you cut your finger, you die."

"Oh..."

"And let me guess." Jotaro said. "It won't be effective unless it's a direct strike, so heavy armor, or stands would be able to block it, correct?"

"Indeed." Akame said. "And besides, a Teigu's power shouldn't be relied on too heavily."

While Tatsumi wondered just what Akame had gone through in her life, Jotaro was thinking.

The Teigu have similar properties to stands... is it possible that they're basically this world's version, and that's why Teigu-users can see our stands?

Jotaro was looking away, when he saw some movement at the end of the street. At first, he thought it was just some soldier or another member of Night Raid.

Then he saw it. A brief glance of a green school uniform and red hair.

Tatsumi and Akame didn't seem to notice, and he decided to investigate.

"Jotaro? What's up?" Tatsumi asked as the tall teen started to walk away.

"Gonna be back quick." Jotaro said, looking away. "Gotta take care of something.

"Taking a leak?"

If glares could kill, Tatsumi would be a bloodstain on the ground.

"Be careful." Akame warned, munching on a snack. "There are Capital Guards patrolling the city."

"I'll keep that in mind."

Jotaro didn't know why he didn't tell Tatsumi and Akame to go with him. Was it overconfidence? Pride? Or perhaps he didn't trust Tatsumi and Akame?

No. It was secrecy. He wasn't ready to tell them yet, and he was sure Fugo wasn't either. The truth would have to be hidden for a while, for the sake of the missions.

Turning around the corner, he narrowed his eyes.

Standing at the far end of the street was none other than Noriaki Kakyoin.

Kakyoin smiled at Jotaro, before turning away and leaving through an alleyway. Jotaro kept on following him, expression unchanging.

When he turned the next corner, he saw a well-built old man, with short grey hair and a trimmed beard, wearing an outfit straight out of Indiana Jones.

It was none other than Joseph Joestar.

Like Kakyoin before him, he smiled before walking into an alleyway. Jotaro didn't even flinch or change his stride as he kept following him.

Eventually, Jotaro came into a much wider street, in front of some sort of chapel.

Standing there, waiting for him, was a teenage girl. With her dyed hair in tied in two buns, and wearing a dark outfit with a spider theme.

Jolyne Cujoh, his daughter.

Jotaro simply tightened his fist in anger. It didn't matter that the Jolyne he met was from the future and he never even knew that he would have a daughter. He still cared for her.

She was the one that stood with him in his final fight with Dio, and she died trying to protect him.

"You can drop the act, asshole." Jotaro said. "Show me how you really look like."

'Jolyne' faded away, revealing a huge blonde man, dressed in an overcoat. He had some sort of odd forehead-headphone gear.

"Humph, I'm impressed you realized it so quickly." He said, maniacal grin on his face. "But instead of 'asshole', I would prefer you call me, Zanku the Beheader."

As Zanku brandished his twin armblades, Jotaro glared at him, taking a step forward.

"So you want to come over here and give me a piece of your mind, but wait for your friends, isn't it?"

Jotaro grit his teeth. "Let me guess, that eye on your forehead, it's your Teigu?"

"Bingo!" Zanku laughed, clapping. "My Teigu, Spectator has many abilities. One of them lets me read your thoughts by seeing your facial expressions, body language and stuff like that."

"So you can tell what I'm thinking by seeing what I do?" Jotaro asked. "Alright, try to guess now."

The two stared each-other down. While Spectator blinked many times, neither Jotaro or Zanku had moved.

After a few more seconds, Zanku's mouth split open into a demonic smile.

"How impressive." He said. "I can't tell what you're thinking right now. How did you do it?"

"I managed to pull a bluff against the world's greatest gambler." Jotaro said, resuming the walk forward. "And his brother could also read minds."

"Oh, you're approaching me?" Zanku asked. "Even though I told you how my powers work, you're coming towards me instead of running away?"

"I can't beat the shit out of you without getting closer." Jotaro said.

"Ho ho!" Zanku boomed. "Come as close as you like then!"

Zanku began to walk forward as well. Neither of them backed down as they walked forward. Zanku held up his blade, which glinted in the moonlight. Jotaro merely tightened his fists.

"I see you're not planning to even use your arms or legs to fight." Zanku observed. "Why don't you let me cut off your head? As a Master of Decapitation, I'll be sure to make it nice and quick-"

"Answer me this, Zanku." Jotaro said suddenly. "Will I hit you with my right fist or decide to deck you with my left?"

"Huh?" Zanku was caught off guard by the odd question. "That's-"

"ORA!"

(JoJo's Bizarre Adventure OST - Platinum Fists)

Zanku grit his teeth in pain, as he felt a mighty blow to the side of his leg. The surprising part? Jotaro's legs didn't even move. He saw a spectral, but muscular purple leg extend from Jotaro, the real culprit.

"What the-?!"

"I got the first hit." Jotaro said. "I guess you failed."

"What are you talking about?!"

"You call yourself a Master of Decapitation." Jotaro said. "And yet you failed to kill me already. Some master you are."

"Why you-!"

"STAR PLATINUM: THE WORLD!"

Zanku was frozen in time, as was everything else in the world. Star Platinum materialized in front of Zanku, and reared its fist back.

"Be glad I'm holding back." Jotaro said, even though Zanku couldn't hear him. "Cause you managed to piss me off."

"ORAORAORAORAORAORAORAORAORAORAORAORAORAORAORAORAORAORA! ORA!"

Star Platinum returned to its master, as Jotaro took several steps back.

"That's enough, time in."

As soon as it did, Zanku roared in pain as he was sent crashing into a stone pillar, causing it to collapse. Zanku groaned and stood up, blood running down his forehead.

"Bastard, I'll cut your damn head off..."

"A little late for that." Jotaro said. "Cause you caused a lot of noise from crashing into that pillar."

Zanku realized what Jotaro meant. A katana fell from the sky and embedded itself into the pavement.

"Took you long enough, Akame."

Akame dropped down from above and grabbed her sword, taking up a stance and aiming it at Zanku.

"Thank Tatsumi." She said to Jotaro. "He thought you were taking too long for a bathroom break."

Said teen was running up to the two with his sword drawn, blocking off Zanku's only possible escape route.

"Emotionally, it was already your victory, Jotaro." Akame complimented. "You've already riled him up."

"I know how to piss people off." Jotaro said. "But this guy was too damn easy."

Zanku's snarl disappeared, and it was replaced by his grin once again.

"The ill reputed Akame, and the Demon Sword, Murasame." He said. "I've always wanted to meet you."

"So did I." Akame said. "Because my mission is to eliminate you."

"Akame. This guy can read your thoughts with that eye of his, so keep ready." Jotaro said. "Tatsumi and I will make sure this shit stain doesn't get away. Right?"

"Yeah!" Tatsumi called, sword held up, ready to hold his ground.

"Give him hell for me." Jotaro said, taking a few steps back.

(Senki Zesshou Symphogear OST - Zettou - Ame-no-Habakiri)

"I was planning on it." She said, having not moved once.

One second passed.

Two seconds have passed.

And then all hell broke loose.

Akame and Zanku dashed at each other. Their blades crashed against one another, filling the night air with the ringing sound of steel. Akame twirled around and swung forward with Murasame, launching Zanku into another stone pillar. Running up, she stabbed into his armored shoulder. It wasn't enough to cut into him directly, but the force of the attack was enough to smash the pillar entirely.

Impressive. Zanku thought. She has a mountain of fighting experience. And not just her speed, she has the strength to match!

Tatsumi and Jotaro just watched the fight from the sidelines, ready to step in if anything went south. Tatsumi was in awe at the battle between Teigu users.

Their speed is off the charts. Jotaro thought. I can barely keep track of this fight.

Zanku and Akame were once again on the opposite sides of the street. Akame took a deep breath to relax and clear her mind.

"To be without thought, eh? How splendid!" Zanku complimented. But unfortunately for her, Spectator has the ability to see the future as well from the smallest muscle movements!

He was was brought out of his thoughts as Akame slashed downwards from the air. Zanku smiled and slashed downwards, forcing Akame to kick back and away.

It wasn't fast enough. She managed to avoid most of it, but there was a large gash on her leg, dripping with blood.

Akame got hit? Tatsumi was stunned.

"I tell you, that sword there?" Zanku said, pointing at Murasame. "It's almost unfair how I can't take even the tiniest the tiniest scratch or I die, huh?"

"That's rich, coming from someone that can read minds and predict movements." Jotaro scoffed from the sidelines.

Zanku ignored him and kept talking to Akame. "Say, Akame. What do you do about the voices?"

"Voices?"

"Yes... the voices that never stop... the voices that drift up from hell... the moans of those who have been murdered!" He yelled, with a crazed look in his eyes. "The ones that beat a grudge, constantly calling for me to join them in hall."

Akame's expression didn't change. Neither did Jotaro's. Tatsumi looked disturbed by what the man was spouting.

"Since my time as executioner, I've always heard them." He said. "But recently, they've been especially loud. I quiet them by speaking, but how do you deal with-"

"I don't hear anything."

Zanku stopped speaking, the smile dropping from his face.

"I've never heard anything." Akame simply stated. "No voices. Nothing."

"What?" Zanku looked almost disappointed. "I thought that an assassin like you, would share and understand the problem, but... how sad, it seems that I was mistaken!"

Zanku briefly flashed brightly, causing Akame to squint. What happened next stunned Jotaro and Tatsumi.

Akame was frozen, eyes wide in shock.

"H-Hey! What's wrong?!" Tatsumi called. "Akame!"

"Illusion Sight." Zanku simply stated. "This ability finds the person most previous to you, and shows them before your eyes."

Jotaro's eyes were shadowed under his cap. So that's how... I saw Kakyoin, Gramps and Jolyne...

"Akame!" Tatsumi shouted. "What you're seeing is an illusion! Don't be fooled by it!"

"It's useless, boy."

Jotaro stiffened up at that remark.

"For the one trapped in it, the illusion is absolute." Zanku said, extending his blades. "Furthermore, no matter how skillful the person is, it's impossible for them to lay a hand on the one they love most."

Jotaro and Tatsumi began to run towards them, but they were too far.

"Die while gazing at the one you love most in this world! AKAME!"

"Shit! Star Platinum: The Wor-"

CLANG

Akame slashed outwards, smashing her blade against Zanku's.

Jotaro and Tatsumi stopped moving. Zanku's expression was no longer arrogant, but in complete and utter surprise. Akame?

If it was possible, her glare was even more deathly than before.

"H-HOW?!" Zanku screamed, jumping back after defending. "You should have been seeing the person you love most in this world!"

"I did." Akame confirmed, a glare of silent anger in her eyes. "The one I love most in this world, is the one I wish to kill most."

What the fuck...? The hell is she...?

"This fight is almost over." Akame said.

Zanku realized that there was a large crack on his weapon now. He grew desperate and slashed at Akame with both blades.

That would be his last mistake, as Akame slashed upwards and shattered his weapons.

"Eliminate."

Akame slashed at Zanku's throat. It wasn't a deep wound in the slightest, but it was the deciding factor of the fight. With a gargle of blood, Zanku fell over, finally defeated.

Tatsumi was in awe at Akame's victory, and that just increased his will to get stronger, like her. Jotaro merely pulled his cap down and turned away. Akame walked up to Zanku and removed Spectator from his forehead. She looked down at Zanku, his headphones shattered and a look of peace on his face.

"So, how about it? You can no longer hear the moans of the dead, right?"

"...yeah." Zanku coughed out. "They've stopped. I'm thankful to you... Akame."

Zanku's breathing slowly stopped, and Akame turned away, swinging her blade to clear the blood.

Jotaro stood on the cliff-side facing away from the base, looking out at the view. He sighed as he took in the scenery.

"Hey."

Jotaro caught an apron out of the air. He didn't even have to turn to know it was Akame.

"Why are you out here? We have to prepare dinner." She said to him.

"...Akame."

"Mm?"

"Who did you see in that illusion?"

The two stoic teens let the silence grow, before Akame gave her answer.

"You have your own secrets, Jotaro. I have mine."

"Fair enough." Jotaro said, turning around.

"If the time comes, I will tell you." She said. "Though I will tell you this."

Jotaro raised an eyebrow.

"Right now, everyone in Night Raid is an important person to me." Akame said. "Of course that includes you."

"Appreciate the sentiment." He said. "Though I do have to thank you for bailing me out against that bastard."

"Why? I believe you were more than capable of eliminating him on your own."

"I'm sure that I would have hesitated a lot more with that illusion crap, unlike you." Jotaro said.

Akame didn't press on with a question. Though she was curious, it wouldn't be fair to force the information from Jotaro.

Not with the pain he had behind those hardened eyes.

But one thing was relieving was that even someone like Jotaro even had those he cared for.

"Also, last thing." Jotaro said, holding up a finger. "We're not cooking meat again."

"Huh?" This broke Akame's stoic demeanor. "Why?"

"We had that yesterday." He said, walking back to the base. "For an assassin, you have one hell of a crappy diet."

"But it's what fuels me in battle..."

"At this rate, you're not gonna get killed by an enemy, you're gonna die from heart disease."

Akame followed the tall teen and kept complaining. Jotaro hid a smirk in his collar.

Good grief... they really are a lively bunch... just like everyone else...

A/N: If you're wondering why I've got this chapter out so soon, thank Death Battle. Akame ga Kill is finally getting in. Gray Fullbuster vs Esdeath! I'm quite excited for it, since it's one of the closest fights Death Battle has done since Carnage vs Lucy all the way back in Season 5. You can read my thoughts on who wins the fight on the G1 Death Battle Fan Blogs when it comes out.

So, I couldn't exactly do Tatsumi vs Zanku, since well, Zanku lured him with an illusion of Sayo in the original story and as you already know, Sayo and Ieyasu are not suffering from the deads in this story. As a result, Tatsumi doesn't suffer as much angst as compared to the original series.

Anyways, I'm sure a lot of people are asking why Jotaro didn't kick Zanku's ass, or why Zanku didn't break everything after getting Stand Rushed.

Well, I didn't want Jotaro (and Fugo) to take up all of the glory. One thing I've always hated in crossovers is when one party is seen as completely superior. Yeah, I get it, but I want to try balancing them.

And from what I've seen, trained humans in Akame ga Kill are a lot more hardy than the stand-users in JoJo's Bizarre Adventure. It might be quite a bit tougher for Jotaro to break through their defenses.

Also, as much of a hardass Jotaro is, I don't think he'd be willing to kill versions of those he loves. Hey, stoic as he may be, he has shown that he truly cares for his comrades. And since I'm giving Jotaro some of his more mature traits from Part 4, he'll learn to rely more on his allies.

There's not much else to say about this, so feel free to leave a review.

This is EpicLinkSam. See you all next time.