As Scarlett and Akashi strolled through the bustling streets of Vanguard, the city's vibrant energy pulsated around them. The air was alive with the chatter of people going about their daily lives, the bustling crowds parting effortlessly to make way for the duo.
Amidst the lively atmosphere, Scarlett and Akashi engaged in conversation, their words flowing freely as they walked side by side. The sun cast a warm glow over the city, bathing everything in a golden light as they made their way towards the outskirts of Vanguard.
"Why am I here?" Akashi's question hung in the air, his tone tinged with curiosity as he glanced at Scarlett.
Scarlett chuckled softly, her eyes sparkling with amusement. "You sought out the benefits of joining me, didn't you?" she replied, a mischievous grin playing at the corners of her lips.
Akashi sighed, his expression betraying a hint of frustration. "I may have," he conceded reluctantly, "but I still fail to see how I can be of any use to you."
Scarlett's smile softened, her gaze thoughtful as she regarded him. "Akashi, there's more to you than meets the eye," she said cryptically. "Sometimes, it just takes a little time for the truth to reveal itself."
As Akashi and Scarlett reached the northern end of Vanguard, they were met with the imposing sight of the 5th Division's headquarters, known colloquially as the "Death-Hold." The name alone sent shivers down Akashi's spine, evoking images of a foreboding fortress that loomed like a dark sentinel against the horizon.
The Death-Hold stood as a colossal structure, its towering spires reaching towards the heavens like jagged claws grasping for the sky. Constructed from dark stone and iron, it exuded an aura of ancient power and unwavering strength. Intricate carvings adorned its walls, depicting scenes of labor and industry, each carving a testament to the resilience and determination of the city's inhabitants.
Approaching the fortress, the air grew thick with the acrid scent of smoke and the metallic tang of sweat. The sounds of industry filled the air, mingling with the rhythmic clanging of metal and the distant roar of furnaces. Within its walls, warriors honed their skills in vast training grounds, while craftsmen toiled tirelessly to forge weapons and armour for the city's defense.
Scarlett introduced the headquarters with a sense of pride, painting it as a bastion of strength and resilience. But to Akashi's eyes, it appeared more like a man-made hell, a place where the line between duty and suffering blurred into obscurity. The river of lava that flowed nearby only added to the surreal atmosphere, its fiery glow casting an ominous pall over the scene.
The inhabitants of the base, though they resembled rough-hewn soldiers, were clearly dedicated to their craft. Sweating profusely, they worked tirelessly to master their quirks and forge weapons of war. Among them, a female soldier with pink hair and striking blue eyes greeted Scarlett with enthusiasm, her voice echoing through the halls as she welcomed her captain home.
Scarlett's command rang out like a clarion call, cutting through the clamor of the base. "Volt," she called, her voice carrying the weight of authority.
At her command, a tall, slim figure emerged from the depths of the fortress. Volt was a study in contrasts, his pale skin a stark contrast to his jet-black hair and piercing yellow eyes. Clad in a simple blue hoodie and black trousers, he moved with a lazy grace that belied his lethargic demeanor.
"What took you so long, cap'?" Volt drawled lazily as he approached Scarlett, his voice heavy with sarcasm.
Scarlett's fiery gaze betrayed her frustration as she summoned a large fire fist, her patience wearing thin. With swift precision, she delivered a punishing blow to Volt's chest, her disappointment palpable in the air.
"I gave you one simple order, and you couldn't do it," she scolded, her voice tinged with disappointment. "How are you supposed to be my vice-captain with such a despicable attitude? You're making me look like a fool."
Volt's confusion was evident as he stumbled backward, his protests drowned out by the sound of Scarlett's fury. With each fiery punch, he scrambled for cover, his cries echoing through the base as Scarlett unleashed her wrath upon him.
Once the chaos had subsided, Scarlett addressed her underlings, her voice ringing with authority. "This is Akashi," she declared, gesturing to her new recruit. "He'll be joining us from now on."
Akashi remained silent, his expression unreadable as he contemplated his uncertain future in this new environment.