16: Kurome and Gin

Haruki took Nina, Kurome, and Gin to the small courtyard that Gozuki had prepared for him and Nina. After helping them pick out their rooms, he brought them into the main hall.

From the outside, the residence looked no different from any other farmhouse, but once inside, it was clear the place was tastefully furnished and quite comfortable. While it didn't compare to Haruki's home back in the Imperial Capital, it was still more than enough for a cozy stay.

Inside the hall, Kurome and Gin appeared a bit tense. After all, they were still just children—at an age where, in a modern world, they would be nestled safely in their parents' arms.

"Relax. My name is Haruki. You can call me Master, or Brother like Nina does. I'll be in charge of your training for a while. Oh, and this is Nina—she's the little princess of the Empire, and the younger sister of the current Emperor."

Haruki introduced himself warmly, making sure to include Nina in the introduction.

The moment they heard Nina's identity, both girls stiffened. Having come from poor families, they had never even seen a mid-level official before—let alone a real princess standing right in front of them. Of course they were shocked.

"You don't have to worry about Nina's status. In my eyes, all of you are like little sisters."

Haruki's voice followed quickly, easing the tension.

His words brought both girls a sense of comfort—and even a bit of emotion. They were orphans, sold into the Assassination Unit where each day was a grueling struggle. Comrades died in front of them, and every moment was soaked in blood and fear. Kurome had it slightly better with her sister by her side, but Gin had faced it all alone.

To hear someone speak to them with genuine care, treating them as more than tools, was deeply touching.

They soon took turns introducing themselves.

Kurome was eleven, sold here with her sister Akame two years ago. The two had been separated recently due to training arrangements. Back in their hometown, famine had driven their parents to starve themselves just to feed their daughters—perhaps the root of the sisters' love for food in the original story.

Gin was twelve. Her life had been even more tragic. She'd grown up in a small village along the Empire's southwestern border, where attacks by foreign tribes and crippling taxes imposed by the local governor were a constant threat. Her parents weren't killed by the tribes—they were beaten to death by the governor's men after failing to pay taxes. Gin had been sold here afterward. Seeking revenge, she devoted herself to becoming strong enough to join the Elite Seven.

After hearing their stories, Nina clenched her fists and said with righteous anger,

"Don't be too sad. Big brother is amazing! If you train with him and get stronger, you'll definitely be able to get your revenge. I believe in you!"

Just then, Kurome looked up and asked,

"Brother, can I see my sister?"

"I'm afraid not right now. It might interfere with your training. But I promise—once your strength reaches the level I expect, I'll let you meet her. And when you do, you'll really surprise her."

Sensing the mood getting a little heavy, Haruki shifted the topic.

"All right, that's enough serious talk for today. It's been a long day, and it's getting late. Tonight, I'll grill some meat for everyone. Rest well—we start training tomorrow. Just so you know, my training isn't any easier than Gozuki's."

"Hurray!"

Nina cheered immediately.

At the mention of grilled meat, Kurome and Gin's eyes lit up as well. After all, what kid doesn't love a good meal? Especially when they'd probably never had the chance to enjoy something like grilled meat before.

...

(40 Chapters Ahead)

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