For days since the capture of JOSH-A by the Imperial military, Ranmaru had heard rumors of some minor functionary in northern Asia spreading rumors about him, how he deliberately avoided participating in the Empire's invasion, how his age made him too young for courage, how he didn't deserve his command, and more. Ranmaru could only ignore the lies so long before people actually started to believe them. His squad in tow, Ranmaru set out to the politician's office, marching past the city guard in their Zakus until they stood in formation before the building.

"This is Rikugun Taii Ranmaru Alaunte, come to speak with the cowardly dog who dares besmirch my name," he announced. "I've got to meet him on the field on honor, man-to-man, before the witnesses of my squad and his co-workers."

The doors to the office building opened and a man in a suit was quickly hustled out by a pair of security guards. Ranmaru's Zaku kneeled down to let the pilot out, bringing with him a pair of swords. He watched smugly as his detractor had to be forced forward, trembling as fell to his knees.

"Here is the man you are searching for," one of the security guards stated. "His supervisor asks that you not kill him though, as he is useful at his position."

"No promises," Ranmaru hissed, throwing one of his swords before the trembling bureaucrat. "Pick it up and fight for you honor."

The assembled crowd and the people in the building watched as, instead of picking up the weapon, the man got up and ran, getting ten feet before he was thrown back by the spectating crowd.

"You refuse to fight?" Ranmaru asked.

"Have mercy!" his victim cried, throwing himself at the officer's feet.

Ranmaru slashed downward with his sword, spraying blood across the pavement. The crowd backed up, not wanting to get blood on their clothes, but no more was spilled. Ranmaru wiped the blood off of his blade before spitting on the injured man's face.

"You are an honorless dog," he growled. "Before witnesses, you have shown no backbone, only sniveling submission unworthy of the Empire. I will let your supervisors deal with you, as you are unworthy of being felled by a warrior."

Outcome: Ranmaru Alaunte wins
Ranmaru Alaunte: 4 Xp, Injured 1