The Massacre of the City

Outside Kyoto City, at the Puppet Army's camp.

Araki Kenichi stood on a high platform. Below him were more than a thousand middle- and lower-ranking officers of the Puppet Army. All of them were people from Sakura Country, and they were currently listening to Araki Kenichi's speech.

Around the perimeter stood soldiers from the Jieko Group, supervising the Puppet Army and preventing them from entertaining any improper thoughts.

"Having earned the Imperial Army's regard, I, Araki Kenichi, will serve as the supreme commander with full authority over the Puppet Army in the battle for Kyoto City. Every member of the Puppet Army must obey my orders and arrangements."

Araki Kenichi began by announcing his identity.

The Puppet Army below showed little reaction. To them, being in the Puppet Army was merely a way to make a living. Whoever was in charge made no difference.

However, Araki Kenichi's next words soon caused the Puppet Army's expressions to change drastically.

"I know what many of you are thinking. You merely believe that the Jieko Group has your backs, and plan to put in no real effort—fire a couple of shots just to go through the motions, while refusing to shoot your own people."

Araki Kenichi sneered as his gaze swept across the entire gathering. "Unfortunately, the Imperial Army will neither agree with nor tolerate such perfunctory behavior.

"I will establish a discipline squad. Any cowardly attitude will be punishable by immediate execution at the discipline squad's discretion.

"And it won't only be you yourselves. Your parents and family members in Osaka City will also be punished for your actions and sent to Wakayama Prefecture to work."

At those words, many members of the Puppet Army could no longer sit still. They glared furiously at Araki Kenichi.

This bastard had sold out his